I am a male.  Not just because I identity as a male.  Not just because my birth certificate or drivers licenses indicates that I am a male, but because seven weeks into fertilization in my mother's womb, creator God made me a male.  I "was" a sinner not just because I am part of the fallen race of Adam, but also because I willfully sinned against God and His word.

I am now saved, a saint, part of the royal priesthood of God.  A child of God and part of the eternal family of God!  Not because of anything I have done but because I received, by faith the "cure" for sin - Jesus! 

I received Christ as my Savior!  He has saved me from the penalty of sin - eternal death.  But it doesn't stop there.  I not only received by grace the cure for the penalty of sin, but also by faith received the cure from the power of sin - Jesus!  He is savior and Lord!  I now identify myself as a "Christian."  Meaning of "the party of Jesus" -  a "Christ -one!"

I am a disciple of Jesus Christ - a lifelong learner and follower of Jesus!

 As Christ followers, we need to remember that for so many the only gospel they see and hear is our lives!  The Apostle Paul in Philippians reminds us of this when he writes, "Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ..."  (cf. Philippians 1:27)   No, we will never be worthy of salvation.  I am no more worthy of salvation today than when I first believed in 1977, but I am to walk "appropriately" - reflecting Jesus in my life for the sake of the Gospel!  We must examine ourselves daily and ask the question, "Does my everyday actions, attitudes and behavior advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ, or do they hinder the Gospel?"   Paul says in 2 Corinthians 3:2, "You yourselves are our letter...to be known and read by all."  In other words, you and I are God's love letter to the world!   What are we writing?!

73% of Americans identify themselves as Christian?  Does that 73% reflect Christ in their lives?  Can the world look at your life and say you are "Christian."  Not because you identify yourself as a Christian, but because your lifestyle is a witness that you indeed are!

There are many delusions in our day.  Even the liberal state of the church at large is in delusion about many things.  Let us not have delusions about what the Bible says about the Christian - a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ - a "true believer!"

Pastor Rodney 

"Your Mother and the Sanctity of Life"   Psalm 139:13-17

Mother's Day, May 10th, 2026

My mom. Born January 10th, 1940.  She was always a hard worker. Stayed at home most years taking care of us children, working outside the home once we were raised. Always had a big garden and canned.  She always kept a spotless home and had a knack for interior decorating. No better cook than my mom!  Loved my dad, who passed in September of 2023. She loves her children and grandchildren.  Mom has always been supportive of the ministry God called me to.  I was privileged to re-baptism my mom latter on in her life.  My mom has buried her husband of sixty plus years and two children. A mother shouldn't have to bury her children.  My mom, now 86 is confined to a bed at a nursing home, and through it all her faith stays strong.  She knows as this life is passing Jesus has promised in His word something much better prepared for her.

"Thank you" mom for being my mother! Thank you for giving us life and for receiving Christ as your personal Savior and Lord! 

Happy Mother's Day to all our Mother's!  As we pause to "thank and honor" our Mother's present and past, womanhood is under attack.  Mother's and women in general are so vitally important and critical to our society and to God's church.  From the very beginning God created male and female.  The bible says that "God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good." (cf. Gen.1:31)

Jesus Himself was born of a woman (cf. Gal. 4: 4).  The Savior of the world could have come some other way, but God chose to send through a woman - which is how all of us got here!  We are living in a day when our society is trying to redefine the sex's.  Trying to redefine marriage.  Trying to redefine family.  God created us in His image and we will only survive and thrive when we live according to His design and not some distorted view of mankind - "who changed the truth of God for the lie..."(cf. Ro.1:25)

Throughout the Bible, we can find a variety of women who dealt with the  struggles common to womanhood, but none like we have today.

We live in that time when knowledge is increasing exponentially, but we are getting further and further away from God's truth, not only as nation, but the church at large. The bible says to 'honor your mother!"  No one can replace your biological mother, but we recognize too that there are reasons for adoption and the nurturing and raising of a child outside the biological.  We have spiritual mothers and mother figures as well!  But we all originated under the umbrella of

Psalm 139,  "You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb.  I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made" (cf. vv. 13-17).

On this mother's day may we acknowledge the sanctity and dignity of human life and God's design and purpose - "...in Your book they were written, the days fashioned for me..." (Ps. 139).

Pastor Rodney

"Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." - Heb.10:25

"Worship is meant to be directed toward God, not people. Unfortunately, we can have an attitude of "I didn't like the worship today" rather than asking if it was pleasing to God."  - Francis Chan

Is it pleasing to God, as a Christ follower that you stay away from assembling together on the Lord's Day?!  I guess we need to examine where "The Heart of our Worship" is when it comes to corporate worship and following the Lord.  As for me I don't want to be the 'manner of some' spoken of in Hebrews, but I also want my worship and preaching to be focused on Him!

I would like to share with you the following that was shared on Facebook by Thomas Osterkamp that I wholeheartedly agree with.  [yes, some good things come via Facebook].  I believe these words are very fitting as we look at worship, and our purpose for assembling together to worship. 

Quote "As a pastor, clarity matters. I will not beg people to come to church. The church grows through conviction, not pressure. Jesus invited people to follow. He did not chase crowds when commitment cost something.

I will not water down the gospel to fill seats. The message of Scripture carries weight. It confronts sin. It calls for repentance. It offers grace that transforms. When the message changes to avoid discomfort, the power weakens. Studies on church health show that congregations grounded in clear doctrine often experience deeper discipleship even if growth looks slower.

I will not apologize for preaching the Word of God. Truth can offend because it challenges pride and preference. Scripture describes itself as living and active. That activity exposes hearts. My responsibility is faithfulness to the text, not control over reactions.

This approach shapes how I lead. It keeps the focus on obedience. It resists the pressure to perform. It protects the integrity of the mission. People may leave. Others may lean in. God handles the results.

You should consider what you expect from church leadership. Ask whether you value comfort or conviction? Ask whether you want truth or preference affirmed? Growth requires honesty.

You should also examine how you respond to Scripture. When something challenges you, pause. Ask what God may be shaping in you. Lean into discomfort instead of avoiding it.

You should support leaders who preach faithfully. Pray for courage and clarity. Encourage integrity over popularity.

The gospel does not need marketing tricks. It needs proclamation. When truth leads, transformation follows." - end quote 

"And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another.  How my heart yearns within me!"

 - Job 19:26-27

"Let me see Jesus only!"

Pastor Rodney

"The Word & The Spirit"    Nehemiah 8: 1-6

'Revival' - is best defined as the 'Spirit of God working through the word of God, in the lives of the people of God."

We are so blessed as a country to freely travel.  To dream, set goals, aspire!  The only thing that hinders us is really ourselves - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!" (Phil.4:13)   I was honored to be able to be along side the course to cheer on the Boston Marathon runners!  My friend Greg Evans, from Indiana ran. I was as thrilled to see him run as I would have been for myself.  We had a great week too catching up with my grandkids, daughter and son-in-law.  We toured Boston, got to see all the historical sights in which this country was birthed, which is celebrating 250 years of Independence this year.  A country founded upon Judeo-Christian principles!  The bible reminds us in 2 Cor. 3:17, "Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." 

Take the Lord out and we lose our blessings, lose our liberty as we know it.  The Lord is the key to true success, freedom, peace.  God is not the great 'joy killer!'  Your creator wants you to dream and aspire, but keep Him and His Word at the forefront of all that you do and hope to do.  He is your creator, your sustainer, and giver of eternal life through Jesus Christ (cf. Jn 3:16-17).  I have been blessed to have traveled here and abroad.  Through my few travels I have learnt that people are people!  All humankind have the same physical, emotional and spiritual needs.  People desire to love and to be loved.  All people are equal in God's sight!  God's passion is people and therefore should be our passion!  We are to love people and use things, not love things and use people!  Life is all about people and relationships - doing life together and encouraging others to give their life to Christ so that they might have eternal life!  What does all this have to do with 'The Word & the Spirit?' - everything!  The bible says "heaven and earth will pass away but His word will never pass away!"  His word is all about relationships.  Right relationship with God the Father through His Son Jesus Christ, and with one another.  We become brothers and sisters in Christ through the Word - Jesus Christ.  We are heirs and joint heirs of Christ.  We have an eternal, heavenly hope!  All this is on the authority of His word and through the power of His Holy Spirit!  It is thrilling to know that these relationship we are building here on earth can continue right on into eternity - if you believe on the Lord Jesus Christ!

"You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" - Jesus 

"...surrounded by so great cloud of witnesses...run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith..." - Heb.12

Pastor Rodney

"Blessed Hope & Glorious Appearing!"        Titus 2: 11-15

Maranatha - "Our Lord, come!"   It was not uncommon for the early disciples to greet one another with "Maranatha!"  They lived each day, going about the great commission, but lived expectedly for the return of the Lord Jesus!  Alot of the men and women of God that were influential in my life thought Jesus would return in their life time, only to go to Him instead (some remain).  Yes, He will return, a final and second time (the bible says so).  Yes, there will be final reward and judgment on that day!  But His 'glorious appearing' is meant to be the 'blessed hope' for those who believe.  The apostle Paul well said, "...whether we live or die, we are the Lord's.  For to this end Christ died and rose and lived again, that He might be Lord of both the dead and the living." (cf. Ro. 14: 8)  There remains only one event in God's prophetic time table - the return of Jesus - His return is imminent!  God never gave prophecy for us to sit by and figure out the details of His return based on what is happening in our world, no, He gave prophecy to remind us of the urgency to be about the great commission (cf. Matt.28:18-20) and to live out our lives in such a way to bring Him glory and to help bring others to Christ!  So many are so focused on the 'details' of His return but spend no time on discipleship! 

Our great God has given us life.  He is the sustainer of life.  He gave us Jesus so that we might have eternal life through His name!  Everything that we are and have is given by God, we are only stewards of what He has entrusted to us.  This life is short at it's longest, but we are preparing for an eternity!

Maranatha!  Yes, Jesus is our blessed hope, present and future. His appearing will be glorious for all those that believe - but until then...

 Titus reminds us, "denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ!" (cf. Titus 2: 11-15)

Pastor Rodney

"Emptiness of Easter"   1 Corinthians 15: 3-11

Happy Easter!  He is risen - He is risen indeed!

"Were you there when they crucified my Lord?...were you there when they nailed Him to the tree?...were you there when they laid Him in the tomb?...were you there when He rose up from the grave?!" (American Folk Hymn)

Where you there?

Simon was - passing by - things to do - too busy to get involved.  But was stopped and ordered to carry Jesus' cross - Jesus changed his life forever!

Mary Magdalene was -  life full of sin - beyond human help.  Jesus healed her

 and changed her life forever!

Peter was - denied Jesus in action and words, but Jesus restored him and changed his life forever!

John was - from apostle to the caregiver of Jesus' mother - eventually alone on an island, but Jesus changed his life forever!

Centurion was there - just doing his job - a rough and tough soldier of Rome -

Jesus changed his life forever!

You and I were not there but our sins and the sins of the whole world were there, past, present and future.  Jesus died because of the sins of mankind - "all have sinned" the Bible says, that is why we need a savior.  "There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)

Paul said "for I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the scriptures." (1 Cor. 15)

Yes, we can celebrate the "Emptiness of Easter" because...

The cross is empty - the penalty for sin has been paid in full - it is finished! 

The grave is empty - Jesus experienced and conquered death for you and for me!

The grave clothes are empty - Jesus' resurrected body left those old grave clothes behind so that we too might walk in newness of life!  Now, and the one to come!

Pastor Rodney

"Hosanna" - "Save us!"             Matthew 21: 1-11

Save from what or whom?  Within the context of this scripture the people were looking for an earthly Messiah to save them or delivery them from the oppression of the Roman Empire.  To deliver them from injustice, poverty and physical aliments.  All certainly reasonable things to seek relief from - things in which humankind has always suffered from since the fall of mankind.  We have many good organizations and churches that help mitigate the suffering here and abroad, but cannot totally save or deliver from.  Jesus said that we would have tribulation but promised those who endure to the end shall be saved (cf. Matt.24).  Jesus reminded us that His kingdom was not of this earth, but promised to those that believe, He has given His helper - the Holy Spirit (cf. Jn 14:26).  All too often we cry out to Jesus or God to save us from this or that, to deliver us from this or that but never fully trust Him with our lives.  God sent His Son on a rescue mission - to save us from our sins!  "...what must I do to be saved?...believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved...(cf. Acts 16:29-31).  Believe is a very strong word.  It means not just to believe He existed, but placing one's total trust and reliance on Him as Savior and Lord!  Means to surrender your life, relying on His death, burial and resurrection as the payment for sins and for eternal life - "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Ro. 6:23

All too often pride, self-reliance, arrogance and unforgiveness (of ourselves and others) will keep us from coming to Christ for salvation.  Yes, we need saved, from ourselves and our sins.  "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and to cleanse us form all unrighteousness." - 1 Jn 1: 9

We confess to Jesus Christ, mankind's only mediator - "who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of truth" (cf. 1 Tim. 2:3-5).

The truth is, man cannot save us.  We cannot save ourselves, only Jesus Christ can save us.  Yes, by God's grace and mercy we can find temporary relief and deliverance from the things of this world, but only God can bring lasting peace and deliverance!

"Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before His presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen!"

• Jude 24-25

Pastor Rodney

"The Blessed"   1 Kings 8: 54-61

"God bless you is a common English expression, used to wish a person blessings in various situations, especially as a response to a sneeze, to say that you hope they have good health: "Achoo!" "God bless you."'

"Said when saying goodbye to someone, to say that you hope good things will happen to them : Good night everyone, and God bless."

"Bless your heart is a phrase that is common in the Southern United States. The phrase has multiple meanings. It can be used as a sincere expression of sympathy or genuine concern. It can be used as a precursor to an insult to soften the blow."

"People often say things like "I've been blessed with good health." That means they were lucky to receive such good things."

"There is no way to be absolutely certain where the saying "God bless you" comes from but the custom continues into our day.  It is believed that during the plague of AD 590 Pope Gregory I commanded unceasing prayer and to say "God bless you" right after someone sneezed because sneezing was one of the first signs of the plague. It is nearly an automatic response. Ironically, some cultures believe that sneezing is a good sign; a sign of prosperity and health."

"God Bless America" is an American patriotic song written by Irving Berlin during World War I in 1918 and revised by him in the run up to World War II in 1938. ... "God Bless America" takes the form of a prayer (intro lyrics "as we raise our voices, in a solemn prayer") for God's blessing and peace for the nation."'

I prefer the blessing as penned in Numbers 6: 24-26, a prayer of Blessing given by God Himself.  A blessing for natural Israel and applicable to spiritual Israel - the people of God - past, present and future: "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace."

If you have the blessing of God, you are truly "Blessed!"  Now that we are blessed, let's start living and acting like it!  As in the words of Solomon as penned in 

1 Kings 8: 60-61, "that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God; there is no other.  Let your heart therefore be loyal to the LORD your God, to walk in His statues and keep His commandments, as at this day."

Pastor Rodney

"God's Purpose in Prayer"     1 Samuel 1:5-18       

Volumes have been written on the topic of prayer.  "Pray" or "Prayer" is mentioned 547 times in the Bible, depending on the version of scripture.  All the great men and women of God were prayer warriors. I think of the influential men and women in my life where all people of prayer.  Jesus Himself demonstrated in scripture the importance and priority of prayer. 

But, if God is sovereign, and He is, then why does He need our prayers?  What is really at the heart of prayer?  We know it's not like a "genie" in the bottle, giving us our three wishes - because our prayers aren't always answered favorably, humanly speaking.  But God desires our prayers, our communion with Him.  It is hard to understand how a Sovereign God choses to work His purpose through His people via prayer - but He does. But ultimately, prayer actually changes us, and draws us closer to God - which I believe is the greater purpose of God's purpose in prayer.

I've journeyed now in my daily reading from the book of Ruth and into first and second Samuel.  So much to glean from God's word - will take a life time to take it all in.  We never fully master the word, but by God's continued grace and mercy, His word will master us!  God's word and His spirit go together as we journey through this life and into the one to come.  His spirit communes with us via His word and prayer.  Yes life is hard at times, but God is right here with us even in our heartache.  Naomi in the book of Ruth had felt her God had abandoned her, as expressed "I went out full, and the LORD has brought me home again empty."  Hanna knew heartache too [cf. 1 Sam.1]. But she poured out her heart to God instead of accusing Him, as expressed "...she was bitterness of soul, and prayed to the LORD and wept in anguish."  Same God. Same faith.  Both experienced heartache and bitterness.  Their response.  One blamed God - one cried out to God.  There are many examples in God's word and in our own lives how God seemly answers some prayers favorable and not others - regardless, don't give up on God!  Keep reading His word - hanging onto His promises!  Keep praying "His will be done!"  Keep assembling together in the house of God.  Keep focused on the 'Great Commission.'  By God's grace let's be part of the hero's of faith that Hebrews speaks of, "these all died in faith, not having received the promises...but now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country...He has prepared a city for them."

Pastor Rodney

"When Life Turns Bitter"        Ruth 1:19-21

"When friends betray us And when darkness seems to win, we know

The pain reminds this heart, That this is not, this is not our home.

It's not our home 'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops?

What if Your healing comes through tears?

And what if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near?

What if my greatest disappointments Or the aching of this life

Is the revealing of a greater thirst This world can't satisfy?

And what if trials of this life The rain, the storms, the hardest nights

Are Your mercies in disguise?" - Lyrics, Blessings by Laura Story

Some of the lyrics to this truly inspiration song written in 2011 after Laura's husband, Martin Ellington, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2006, just two years into their marriage. The lyrics reflects her pain, her brokenness and the redefining of true lasting blessings by the grace of God.

I have journeyed through the book of Ruth and into the first book of Samuel in my daily readings through the Bible, but must pause here for a minute in Ruth.  There are several great truths and applications that can be gleaned from Ruth, but the one I want to focus on is "When Life Turns Bitter."  Not 'if' , but "when."  We have all or will experience some kind of heartache at some point in our life.  Have you heard the phrase "Life is bittersweet?'  Yes, life is a precious gift of God but it comes with joy, sorrow, beauty and pain.  Most often it is the bitter moments of life when we grow the deepest in our faith. Not just any faith, but faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ and His word.  In the book of Ruth we read the account of one woman's faith being tested - Naomi.  Her husband died and her two sons died ten years later, leaving her with no hope of provision.  Naomi focused on her circumstances instead of her faith and cried out, "the almighty has dealt very bitterly with me.  I went out full, and the LORD has brought be home again empty" (Ruth 1:21).  Have you felt that way before? - I have.

We get to read the rest of Naomi's story, it turned out that her God was Jehovah Jireh - "the Lord will provide" or "the Lord My Provider!"  We read about Laura Story's story - it turns out her God is Jehovah Jireh too!  We read all the accounts of the men and women who wholly trusted in God - He came through - Jehovah Jireh is His name - "The Lord My Provider!"  Yes, life is bittersweet.  When life turns bitter, press closer to Jesus, He will see you through and bless you in unimaginable ways!  Because He is Jehovah Jireh!

Pastor Rodney

"Insufficient saviors & the Supremacy of Jesus Christ"  

"In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes" - Judges 21:25

Do you remember the protests we had - the 'no kings' slogan chanted?!  In fact, I believe another one is planned for end of march?  I love America. We have the freedom of speech, but peacefully and respectfully!  Although I don't agree with the negative rhetoric or violence, I appreciate that we as Americans have the freedom to express ourselves and our opinions.  Creator God has even given us freedom and free will.  Free will to accept or reject His Son and His word, but do not be deceived  - there are rewards and consequences for our actions and choices, in this life and most certainly in the one to come for all of us.  I have crossed over in my bible readings this week from the book of Joshua to the book of Judges.  Joshua has died, and the Bible says that "the people served the LORD all the days of Joshua" but now have come to a devastating turn in Judges, "the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD...and they forsook the LORD God of their fathers" (cf. Judges 2: 7-11).

I believe the problem in America is because we have no King.  I believe the problem with the church at large is due to the fact that she has dethroned her King!  I'm not referring to an earthly king - but a heavenly King.  The King of kings and the LORD of lords - the Lord Jesus Christ!  In the book of Judges we read of this destructive cycle of: idolatry - oppression - crying out - deliverance.  You see, God would raise up a judge (savior) to deliver His people only to see them go back into their old way of life - over and over again.  In essence, the Judges were 'insufficient saviors' because they could not bring about true, lasting repentance - a circumcision of the heart!  Mankind can and has done some good things but it is never lasting nor sustainable due to our fallen nature.  Mankind always goes back to revealing his true colors.  As the saying goes, " a leopard can't change its spots."

But Christ can! He can bring about true, lasting change to mankind.  We (the church) must restore the supremacy of Jesus Christ in our lives!  "...bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ" (2 Cor.10:5b)... "...that in all things He may have the preeminence" (Col.1:18b).  When Christ reigns and rules in the heart of man, when we give Him His rightful place (first place in our lives) as our Savior and Lord - lasting change will come!

Yes, we need a king!  And His name is King Jesus!

Pastor Rodney

"The Last Enemy"      1 Corinthians 15: 26

I have journeyed out of the book of Deuteronomy in my daily reading through the Bible and into the book of Joshua.  Moses has taken God's people as far as he could, but could not take them to the promised land -  only to the edges 'door.'

In a way, we are all like Moses, we can only go so far with our loved ones and friends in this life - all the way to the edges door (death), but we can't cross over with them, we have to let them go, to continue the journey without us.

"Jesus wept" is the shortest verse in the Bible (cf. Jn 11:35).  Jesus wept due to the grief death had caused the family of a loved one.  Death is an awful thing, in fact, the Bible calls death "the last enemy that will be destroyed" (cf. 1 Cor. 15:26).

For those of us left behind, death seems to be winning. But for those in Christ death is only the entrance into heaven.  It is well said that "our last breath on earth will be our first breath in heaven!"  Someday, God will call the end of time as we know it and He will usher in eternity for all eternity.  He will bring judgement and reward.  You and I are preparing for heaven now.  God has given us the great commission (Matt.28:19).  We each have a part in helping others realize their desperate need for Jesus Christ as their personal savior and Lord.  I am so thankful for the many godly women and men in my life that have influenced me to live my life for Christ, most of whom have now gone on to be with Christ and one another.  They have passed that baton on to you and I!  You and I are saved for an earthly purpose.  We are saved for heaven and earth.  We are to point people to Jesus Christ in word and life.  When that great 'roll is called up yonder' I not only want to be on it but I want all my family, friends and those within my sphere of influence to be on it as well! But each one must come to Christ by their own accord, you and I can only encourage and lead them to Jesus. 

"When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, and time shall be no more, and the morning breaks, eternal, bright and fair; when the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore, and the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there.  When the roll is called up yonder, when the roll is called up yonder, when the roll is called up yonder, when the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there." - J.M. Black, 1856-1938

The bible says, "And the dead in Christ will rise first.  Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.  And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words" - 1 Thess.4:16-18

Yes, praise God, "the last enemy that will be destroyed is death!" (1 Cor.15:26) 

Pastor Rodney

The church of God reformation 'movement!'    Deuteronomy 2: 1-3, 7

"...I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things..." - 2 Pet.1:12

Moses, via the inspiration of the Holy Spirit penned for our remembrance God's law and promises, though with a heavy heart.  You see, Moses would not be continuing the journey to the promised land and he was burdened for the new generation, burdened that they not make the same mistakes and be prepared for their journey forward.  Journey that would not be easy, but one that the LORD God would be with them all the way.

Speaking of journey, it is well said that "He leads us by no unnecessary pathways. There is a meaning and a value in every stretch of the road, however rough and tortuous it may be. We learn lessons in the region of Mount Seir which can be learned nowhere else; we discover God in the country of Moab as we could do in no other region. Let us, then, ever rejoice in His commands, however much they disturb us." (Morgan)

As I pen this weeks pastor's desk, I too have a heavy heart.  Not just because of my mom's current physical situation, but for the many heartaches that the people I pastor are going through.  I have a heavy heart for our nation and its journey forward.  I have a heavy heart for the senseless killings that continue to occur.  But I am reminded we are not in heaven yet and that we are all saved for an earthly purpose.  As God's people via the new birth through Jesus Christ we can stand upon the promise of God - "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose" - (Ro.8:28).

I know what you're thinking - 'what does this have to do with "The church of God reformation movement?"'  In short, we need reminded that 'the church' is compromised of all blood washed one's via Jesus Christ - "...the church of God which He purchased with His own blood" - (Acts 20:28).  God has ownership - it's His church - the 'bride of Christ."  God is always in the act/process of change for the ultimate better of His people - hence 'reformation!'   Lastly, God's people are to always be moving forward - hence 'movement.'

God help us not to get stuck at our 'mountain' that is before us -  we are "The church of God reformation movement!"

"...I trust in You, O LORD; I say, You are my God.  My times are in Your hands!" - Ps. 31:14-15a

Pastor Rodney

"Your Journey"   Read Numbers 9: 15-23

"Life is a journey.  Like every other journey, it has a starting point.  You had no choice about it, of course, any more than you had a choice about your parents or the color of your eyes or your race or gender.  But the minute you were born you embarked on a journey - the journey of life."

"And like every other journey, it has an end.  It may come suddenly and unexpectedly, or after years of declining health - but it will come, and like your birth, you'll have no choice about it.  You can ignore it or laugh at it, but that won't change its inevitability.  A wise poet once said that 'death comes equally to us all and makes us all equal when it comes.'  But like every other journey, it also has a middle - and that is our real journey: those years between our birth and our death.  For some its is tragically brief.  For most of us, however, our life's journey will last many years, moving successively from childhood to adolescence and young adulthood, then on through the middle years to old age.  Like birth and death, this part of the journey is inevitable.  Try as we might, we can't turn back the clock or stop the relentless march of time." - The Journey, Billy Graham

 I "turned" 64 this month - how did that happen?!  Would I rather be 46 again instead? - No, and yes.  No, because that would mean none of my grandchildren would be born yet, all four are such a gift and blessing!  Yes, because that would mean my dad, my mother and father-in-law, my cousin and friend and a host of other family and friends that have passed on would still be here.  But that is not reality, and grief is part of the journey. 

"Grief never ends...but it changes.  It's a passage, not a place to stay.  Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith...it is the price of love!"

Jesus' journey took Him to the cross because he loved YOU!  His greatest desire is that you and I spend an eternity with Him and one another. He has provided the only way.  "I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through Me." - Jesus (John 14:6)

"God does not promise an easy life, a smooth road, or the absence of trials, but He promises His abiding presence, strength for the journey, and the endurance to overcome. He guarantees that you will not walk alone and that His strength will sustain you through every,, storm, and,, trial."  Life is hard enough, don't do it alone, journey with God and His word even when you don't understand the 'why' of what you're going through.  Jesus promised, "I will never leave you nor forsake you!"

Pastor Rodney

"Be holy, for I AM Holy" - Lev.19: 2

"...holiness, without which no one will see the Lord." - Heb.12:14

"Be holy" - that's a pretty tall order! Quite honestly, doesn't seem obtainable. We generally always see ourselves as 'flawed' in some way.

The bible actually reminds us there is "none righteous, no not one" - is God contradicting Himself? Ok, I understand the gospel and the need to be saved, but sanctification, holiness?  - Let's not get radical!

Library's and volumes of books have been written on the topic of holiness and sanctification.  All these books are measured by the ONE BOOK - THE BIBLE. The Bible clearly commands holiness.  The word 'holy' is stated

approximately over 900 times in the Bible.

But still, holiness seems to be for God, not us?! - "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!" (Isa.6:3)  We can't escape scripture when it comes to this topic of holiness, it is not a take it or leave it, but I think we are scared of it, seems unattainable because we don't really understand it. And quite frankly, life can be so hard. Most of us don't need one more thing to do or to measure up to - so we get discouraged or doubt our salvation when it comes to this topic of holiness. 

Just as salvation is a gift which can't be earned - 'Believe and you will be saved."

Holiness is a gift of grace too, like salvation, we can't earn it nor work for it - it possesses us - its our identity - it's a  state of who we are by the grace of God!  Sanctification on the other hand is the process of becoming who God declares we are! "You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." (1 Pet.2:9)

Jesus prayed for you, me and all those who 'would believe' (cf. Jn 17:20).

He prayed to the Father, "Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth...for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth" (Jn 17: 17-19).  We make salvation too hard.  We make holiness unattainable. We make sanctification a mystery.  It is actually quite simple, everything God has for us to possess is a gift of His grace.

We don't need to master the Word, we need to let the Word master us and possess us.  Yes, you can be 'holy in your conduct' because that is who you are!  You are set apart by the grace of God for His glory to be manifested in you!  "Your faith and hope are in God!"  

 Pastor Rodney

"And at midnight a cry was heard: 'behold, the bridegroom is coming, go out and meet Him!'"..."Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming." - Jesus (cf. Matt.25)

We prepare and watch for many things.  Currently we are watching the path of this major winter storm sweeping across the nation, expected to hit my area around midnight and continuing all day Sunday.  Forecast is 12-14 inches of snow when its all over. This storm is also bringing in frigid temperatures, forecasting zero to minus 6 degrees below, and highs of 11-25 degrees for all of next week.  So what do we do?  We believe the 'experts' forecast and we plan and prepare as best we can to safeguard ourselves, our loved ones, our pets and our places of dwelling.  God has given us wisdom, so we should prepare and plan for these things.

With that being said, have you prepared and planned for where you're going to spend eternity?  Eternity is coming for all of us.  Ella Hill once said, 'the young might and the old must.'  The bible reminds us, "and it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgement." (Heb.9:27)

Have you prepared for eternity?  There is only one way to plan, there is only one way to miss the judgement and that is through Jesus Christ and Him alone. The bible says, "for the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Ro. 6:23)  The bible says, "for whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Ro.10:13)

The bible says, "that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved!" (Ro.10:9)

Believe the Bible, believe what God has to say and be prepared for eternity.  God wants you and I to have the same assurance the apostle Paul had as he penned in Romans 14:8b-9, "...whether we live or die, we are the Lord's. For to this end Christ died and rose and lived again, that He might be the Lord of both the dead and the living."

Be safe. Be prepared. Godspeed!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 9:12-14

"Who am I?"  Exodus  3 - 4

I believe we are facing an identity crisis in our country, the church at large and as Christians.  We are a Judeo-Christian nation - "One Nation under God!"  The church is God's church, "the body of Christ" sent on a mission to lead others to saving knowledge of Jesus Christ via words, actions and way of life.  Christians are "Christ followers."  Life-long followers and learners (disciples) of Jesus Christ via His word and His Holy Spirit. 

The statement "we" are facing an identity crisis" is true but it starts with "me" being what God called me to be.  The world is too big for me to change, but it starts with God changing "me."  The world is too big for you too, but its starts with God changing you and being what He has called you to be.  I believe part of our issues is that we have an identity crisis.  We have forgotten who we are and to whom we belong.  When God called Moses to go to Pharaoh, promising to free His people from bondage through Moses - Moses had an identity crisis. In himself and His God!

Moses responded at God's call with: "whom am I?"; "what shall I say?"; "suppose they won't believe me?"; "I am not eloquent, I am slow of speech and slow of tongue."; "Lord, send someone else"(paraphrased).

You see like us, Moses had an identity crisis, in himself, and His God.

Moses came around, believing God in what He said about himself as a person and believing and trusting in God's word.

What does God word say about those born again through Christ? - "a new creation," "beloved," "chosen," "ambassador," "His workmanship," "fearfully and wonderfully made," "heir and citizen of heaven," "a peculiar people," "holy," "part of His body!'  Your identity is a gift of grace by your creator via Jesus Christ!  Don't forget who you are and to whom you belong.  Feel God's pleasure in you!

 Quote by Scottish Olympic runner and missionary Eric Liddell: "I believe God made me for a purpose, but He also made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure", a line popularized in the movie Chariots of Fire. For Liddell, running wasn't just a sport; it was a way to experience God's presence and purpose, feeling joy and fulfillment in using the physical gifts God gave him for His glory, rather than just personal achievement."'

In essence, when you say "when I (fill in the blank), I feel God's pleasure," you're expressing a deep sense of alignment, purpose, and joy in using your body and talents as God intended - "your identity" in Christ!  "Who are you?!"  Believe what God says about you and change your world by letting God change you!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

I would like to share with you the following that was shared on Facebook by Thomas Osterkamp that I wholeheartedly agree with.  [yes, some good things come via Facebook]. As we start this New Year I believe these words are very fitting as we look at worship, and our purpose for assembling together to worship. 

"As a pastor, clarity matters. I will not beg people to come to church. The church grows through conviction, not pressure. Jesus invited people to follow. He did not chase crowds when commitment cost something.

I will not water down the gospel to fill seats. The message of Scripture carries weight. It confronts sin. It calls for repentance. It offers grace that transforms. When the message changes to avoid discomfort, the power weakens. Studies on church health show that congregations grounded in clear doctrine often experience deeper discipleship even if growth looks slower.

I will not apologize for preaching the Word of God. Truth can offend because it challenges pride and preference. Scripture describes itself as living and active. That activity exposes hearts. My responsibility is faithfulness to the text, not control over reactions.

This approach shapes how I lead. It keeps the focus on obedience. It resists the pressure to perform. It protects the integrity of the mission. People may leave. Others may lean in. God handles the results.

You should consider what you expect from church leadership. Ask whether you value comfort or conviction? Ask whether you want truth or preference affirmed? Growth requires honesty.

You should also examine how you respond to Scripture. When something challenges you, pause. Ask what God may be shaping in you. Lean into discomfort instead of avoiding it.

You should support leaders who preach faithfully. Pray for courage and clarity. Encourage integrity over popularity.

The gospel does not need marketing tricks. It needs proclamation. When truth leads, transformation follows."

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

 My first pastor's desk of 2026.  "Begin with God" - Genesis 1:1   

There is always a first for everything. There is always a beginning and an end. Ecclesiastes reminds us there is, "a time to be born and a time to die" (3: 2).  It's not always how you start but how you finish.  I like good endings, I would imagine everyone does.  Sometimes we may have a vision for where we want to be, accomplish or how we want to finish but can't seem to get started, we procrastinate or 'life' just happens (you know what I mean?).  It would be ideal to live out our lives with no regrets, but I would imagine that would be the exception not the rule. 

Although making New Years resolutions aren't directly in the Bible, the idea of resolve for positive change, spiritual growth, self-improvement, self-examination is very biblical.  The bible encourages planning, transformative habits, prioritizing.  We all pretty much make time for what is really important to us.  C.S. Lewis, well said, "You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream."  I agree and disagree with this statement, as far as an "earthly" perspective.  Some goals have a shelf life in this life.  My running goal (dream goal) when I was in my 20's and late 30's was to run a qualifying time in the Marathon to enter the Olympic trials. Although that never came to fruition, that goal did make me a much better runner.  Now in my 60's that goal is obviously impossible, and now my goal has changed to being consistent in my training and to stay fit for as long as possible.  My mother will be 86 this January, her goals that she may have had are past. Her earthly goals have shifted to end of life goals (although she prayerfully may have many more years - in God's hands).  We have goals for her, like comfort, dignity, peace, value and presence with loved ones.  My mother has given us the most important gift, her  faith - her profession of Jesus as her savior and Lord.  One may gain the whole world, but if they lose their soul - would be tragic!  I am thankful for a New Year.  A whole chapter, blank pages yet to be written on.  As you set new resolutions, resolve to give Jesus first place, you won't regret it in this life or the one to come.  God is a good God. He created the heavens and the earth.  He created light.  He created you and me.  He created us for a purpose and for eternity.  Yes, plan, set goals, aspire for excellence but remind yourself that all earthly things will come to an end some day.  So resolve to have at the top of your list in 2026 - building your relationship with your creator via Jesus Christ and His Word.

My verse for 2026, "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all  these things shall be added" - Jesus (Mt. 6:33).

Happy New Year!  God's continued blessings, grace and mercy!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12: 9-14

"Gone with the Wind...and the Current"  Read Hebrews 2:1

This I my post Christmas pastor's desk prior to Christmas, and my last post of 2025.  Christmas is a reminder of hope.  Hope in the chaos. Hope in the mess. Hope in the trials of this wonderful gift of life.  Hope in the anxious and worrisome times.  Hope in the uncertainty of the future.  Every time I look into my children and grandchildren's eyes - I see hope.  When I look into the eyes of my aging and failing mother - I see hope!  Part of my role is to instill hope.  The only true hope that I know of is the eternal hope of the gospel of Jesus Christ!  Yes, we live in anxious times - but you've hopefully read THE book - the BIBLE!  We cân read the outcome - we  win because Jesus Christ was victorious!  As the writer of Hebrews warns us, "Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away."  We must stand upon the authority and promises of God's word.  The Bible tells us what we must do to be saved.  The Bible tells us what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ.  The Bible tells us how to live in our world - our sphere of influence. Yes, God gave us the greatest gift of all - His Son.  The gift you give back to the Lord is to live out your faith.  Stay in His word.  Read and study His word.  Sit under the consistent preaching of His word.  Assemble regularly with a local body of believers.  Jesus said in Matthew chapter 28, verse 20, "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you..."  This coming New Year, those that profess Jesus as Savior and Lord, may we get back to church.  May we read our bible each and every day, realizing it is our spiritual nourishment, just as food and water is physical nourishment.

The natural wind and current is a wonderful thing, but it is unstable and unpredictable.  Life is unstable and unpredictable.  The only thing in heaven and on earth that is stable and predictable - is Jesus Christ and His word! 

"This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast..."(Heb. 6: 19).

Merry CHRISTmas & the Lord's blessing on a New Year!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"Gone with the Wind...and the Current"  Read Hebrews 2:1

This I my post Christmas pastor's desk prior to Christmas, and my last post of 2025.  Christmas is a reminder of hope.  Hope in the chaos. Hope in the mess. Hope in the trials of this wonderful gift of life.  Hope in the anxious and worrisome times.  Hope in the uncertainty of the future.  Every time I look into my children and grandchildren's eyes - I see hope.  When I look into the eyes of my aging and failing mother - I see hope!  Part of my role is to instill hope.  The only true hope that I know of is the eternal hope of the gospel of Jesus Christ!  Yes, we live in anxious times - but you've hopefully read THE book - the BIBLE!  We cân read the outcome - we  win because Jesus Christ was victorious!  As the writer of Hebrews warns us, "Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away."  We must stand upon the authority and promises of God's word.  The Bible tells us what we must do to be saved.  The Bible tells us what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ.  The Bible tells us how to live in our world - our sphere of influence. Yes, God gave us the greatest gift of all - His Son.  The gift you give back to the Lord is to live out your faith.  Stay in His word.  Read and study His word.  Sit under the consistent preaching of His word.  Assemble regularly with a local body of believers.  Jesus said in Matthew chapter 28, verse 20, "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you..."  This coming New Year, those that profess Jesus as Savior and Lord, may we get back to church.  May we read our bible each and every day, realizing it is our spiritual nourishment, just as food and water is physical nourishment.

The natural wind and current is a wonderful thing, but it is unstable and unpredictable.  Life is unstable and unpredictable.  The only thing in heaven and on earth that is stable and predictable - is Jesus Christ and His word! 

"This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast..."(Heb. 6: 19).

Merry CHRISTmas & the Lord's blessing on a New Year!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"Gone with the Wind...and the Current"  Read Hebrews 2:1

This I my post Christmas pastor's desk prior to Christmas, and my last post of 2025.  Christmas is a reminder of hope.  Hope in the chaos. Hope in the mess. Hope in the trials of this wonderful gift of life.  Hope in the anxious and worrisome times.  Hope in the uncertainty of the future.  Every time I look into my children and grandchildren's eyes - I see hope.  When I look into the eyes of my aging and failing mother - I see hope!  Part of my role is to instill hope.  The only true hope that I know of is the eternal hope of the gospel of Jesus Christ!  Yes, we live in anxious times - but you've hopefully read THE book - the BIBLE!  We cân read the outcome - we  win because Jesus Christ was victorious!  As the writer of Hebrews warns us, "Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away."  We must stand upon the authority and promises of God's word.  The Bible tells us what we must do to be saved.  The Bible tells us what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ.  The Bible tells us how to live in our world - our sphere of influence. Yes, God gave us the greatest gift of all - His Son.  The gift you give back to the Lord is to live out your faith.  Stay in His word.  Read and study His word.  Sit under the consistent preaching of His word.  Assemble regularly with a local body of believers.  Jesus said in Matthew chapter 28, verse 20, "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you..."  This coming New Year, those that profess Jesus as Savior and Lord, may we get back to church.  May we read our bible each and every day, realizing it is our spiritual nourishment, just as food and water is physical nourishment.

The natural wind and current is a wonderful thing, but it is unstable and unpredictable.  Life is unstable and unpredictable.  The only thing in heaven and on earth that is stable and predictable - is Jesus Christ and His word! 

"This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast..."(Heb. 6: 19).

Merry CHRISTmas & the Lord's blessing on a New Year!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

Portrait of Jesus Christ - His 'Love for YOU!'   John 3:16

I love these lyrics written by Kurt Kaiser. I learnt these as a youth in church...

"Oh, how He loves you and me.

Oh, how He loves you and me.

He gave His life, what more could He give;

Oh, how He loves you.

Oh, how He loves me.

Oh, how He loves you and me!" 

We write songs about love.  We write books about love.  We talk about love.  We teach and preach on love, but love is a verb, an action word.  Not based on feeling or emotion, but an act of the will on behalf of God and others.  No one demonstrated that more than Jesus Christ.  The portrait of Jesus is best exemplified in His love for you and me.  The bible in its totality is God's love letter to mankind.  No other verse sums up God's love for mankind better than 

John 3: 16, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." 

God has loved you perfectly through His Son, Jesus.  Our world is in a mess.  So much hatred and disunity.  Why can't we agreeably disagree and still show love for one another?  In reality, man without Christ is not capable to love the way God intended.  Man has shown he is capable of the most hideous acts of violence apart from Christ. What the world needs is their realization of their desperate need for Jesus Christ!  Only Jesus Christ can save us from ourselves.  John 3:17 reminds that "...God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved."

I am praying for a revival in our land and in our world.  Praying for the mighty move of the Holy Spirit upon the hearts and minds of people to see their need for Jesus Christ in their lives!  God help us to love well.  God help us to see this beautiful portrait of Christ's love for mankind.

Merry CHRISTmas!  Jesus loves YOU!  Jesus loves even me!  God help us to love Jesus by loving others and pointing them to our wonderful Savior - Jesus Christ!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12: 9-14

Portrait of Jesus Christ - His 'Humanity' & 'Deity'   Philippians 2:1-11

Jesus is the subject.  "Jesus is the reason for the Season."  Jesus gives us hope for today, tomorrow and beyond the grave.  The bible says, "For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth...all things were created through Him and for Him" (Col.1:15-16).  That means YOU were created by Him and for Him.  Created for now and eternity!  What a hope we have in Jesus Christ!  I am thankful to be part of the human race. I am thankful for my God given five senses (i.e., sight, hearing, smell, taste, tough), although as I grow older, not what they used to be.  But, in eternity we will have those same five senses in our new glorified bodies and all five will be functioning hundred percent as our creator intended!  Being part of this human race brought free-will.  Our creator loves us so much that He has given mankind, made in His image, the power of free-will.  The power of choice.  The power to accept or reject His one and only Son - Jesus Christ.

One of Jim Elliot's (missionary killed by the Waodani tribe in Ecuador in 1956) famous journal entries, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose," reflecting his missionary life and martyrdom; other popular quotes include, "Wherever you are, be all there," and "When the time comes to die, make sure that all you have to do is die!"  We serve a Savior that was fully God and fully man. Why does Jesus Deity and humanity matter?  As God (Deity), Jesus' sacrifice atoned for the sin of mankind. As man (humanity), He represents humanity and knows the human experience and struggles.  Jesus as "Son of Man" and "Son of God" bridged the gap created by sin between God and man.  Yes, Jesus came to earth, born in Bethlehem as a little baby - God took on human flesh so that we might be saved!  I love the way 1 Timothy 3:16 expresses it, "God was manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up in glory." 

700 years before Jesus came to earth the prophet Isaiah prophesied about the coming Messiah and that He would be God in the flesh.

Why it matters?  Unless Jesus was fully God and man you and I could not be saved from our sins. Because he was, we not only can be saved, but we can serve Him with full assurance that He can identify with everything we are going through in our flesh.  We can navigate this wonderful gift of life knowing that Jesus saved us (cf John 3:16) for eternity and know that Jesus 'gets us,' even when others don't. 

What a Savior - Jesus is His name!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12: 9-14

Portraits of Jesus Christ - His 'Servanthood'    Philippians 2:1-11

Servanthood - "the act of serving others with humility and selflessness."

What comes to mind when you think of servanthood?  Those that serve others?  Maybe a waiter/waitress; those in the medical field; emergency responders; police officers; military; Government officials; pastors; those providing a service to help others; etc.,...

Some acts of service are recognized and up front, while others are unnoticed and behind the scenes.  Some acts of service are carried out just to make a living.  Some are for personal gain and recognition, while others are genuinely from a servants heart for others.  Putting the needs of others before oneself is a core principle of the CHRISTian faith modeled after Jesus Christ.  Jesus Himself said that He came "not to be served but to serve, and give His life a ransom for many."

Its okay to make a living at serving (have to pay the bills) but the true blessing of God comes with our attitude towards serving. The bible reminds us, "And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him" (Col.3:17).  Jesus Himself said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35).  Servant is used (depending on translation) in the Bible approximately 900 times, emphasizing the importance.  We serve God by serving others.  The word 'servant' in this 'consumer' post-modern society may not be well received nor politically correct but it is biblically correct! There is no greater act of serving than giving of your time and doing it as unto the Lord.  Sometimes we may grow weary and get tired of 'doing' and thats okay, you might just need to take a pause and refresh yourself, or you may need to slow down and spend more time at Jesus' feet via His word, prayer and assembling yourself at the house of God.  We have to take care of ourselves before we can care for others.  Jesus often went off alone to pray, refresh, and recharge for the task at hand, "made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men...humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross" (Phil. 2: 7-8).  What a savior we have in Jesus! The price of salvation has been paid in full!  Jesus now is sending you and I out to serve others so that they might come to know Him as their personal savior and Lord.

It there not a cause church?!  This advent Sunday's theme is 'peace.' There is no true peace apart from knowing Jesus Christ.  There is no greater joy and purpose than glorifying God through serving others. We are to be Jesus' feet, hands and voice to a world that desperately needs Him, "and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Phil.2: 11).

Pastor Rodney 

Portraits of Jesus Christ - His 'Kingship'    Philippians 2:5-11

When you and I think of a portrait we think in terms of a picture.  We love pictures.  Pictures of loved ones, family and friends (selfies). Pictures of places and events. Pictures capture great moments in time for us to look back and remember.  Becky has a few pictures of our children when they were little as part of the ornaments on our Christmas tree.  In terms of a portrait of Jesus, we may picture a baby in a manager (biblical narrative).  Common portraits are Jesus with long hair and a beard; picture seated at the table with His disciples; picture of Him holding a lamb; etc.,...but the Bible actually does not provide any physical descriptions of Jesus.  Isaiah only remarks "...when we see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him" (Isa. 53:2b).  The bible does in great detail describe His nature and character, especially in the four gospels.  Through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit the gospel writers were eyewitness to the person and work of Jesus Christ.  Each writer caught similar and different aspects of Jesus.  Matthew focused on Jesus' Kingship.  Mark focused on Jesus' servanthood.  Luke focused on Jesus' humanity, while John focused on Jesus' Deity.  Although we can see Jesus through the entirety of the Bible, Philippians chapter 2, verses 6 through 11 is considered by theologians to be the most comprehensive description of all aspects of Jesus' nature and role.  All that being said, like any information, any truth, what you do with the information is your choice.  Jesus loves you with an unconditional love.  You can come to  Him just as you are.  When you see Jesus, maybe for the very first time, through the pages of scripture it can't help but change you in the present and change your eternal destiny.  Jesus started at the highest place and he traveled to the lowest place just so you would come to know Him and invite Him in.  His greatest desire is that you take part in His eternal kingdom (present and to come).  To be part of this eternal kingdom you have to know Him as King!  That is, He is to reign and rule in your heart and life.  Jesus said in Revelation 3:20, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock.  If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me."  Have you opened the door?  Will you let Him in?  You won't regret it, in this life or the one soon to come!

Jesus indeed is "Lord of lords and King of kings!"

This advent Sunday brings a theme of "Hope!"  Hope founded upon the One and Only King - Jesus!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"This is the Day!"   Read Psalm 118:24

This is the day the LORD has made, I will rejoice and "Be" glad in it!  I am "Thankful" that God is Sovereign.  We serve a God that neither slumbers nor sleeps - He knows our lying down, our rising up and all in between - He is in control!  God has said in His word, "While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease." (Gen. 8: 22)

Hard to believe, but Thanksgiving is next week and the start of the Advent season to follow.  The Holidays can be hard for people though.  Depression can sit in during this time for various reasons, too many to pen in this writing.  But no matter your past or present circumstances and situation you can develop an attitude of Thanksgiving - it starts with your focus being on the one in whom I started this post with - The LORD!  The enemy of your soul, the devil, wants you to be discouraged and depressed and unthankful.  He wants you to look at all the negatives and disappointments of life.  But the lover of your soul - Jesus - He desires that you to be happy, content and at peace with your circumstances and situation.  He desires that you can "Make a joyful shout to Him."  He desires that you "come before His presence with singing."  He wants you to "know that He is God."  He wants you to know that "He has made you, you are His and He is your Great Shepherd."  He desires that you develop an attitude of Thanksgiving, in season and out of season.  But how is this possible?!  By focusing on Him and His attributes.  "The LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations." (cf. Ps. 100)  God loves YOU!  He sent His Son just for YOU!  It doesn't matter what your past looks like.  You have a present and a future hope - "Come before His presence"  and a "Psalm of Thanksgiving Can Be Yours!"  And remember, "for here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come!" (Heb.13:14)   

"Happy Thanksgiving!"  "This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it!"

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"Fear Meets Faith"   Read 1 Samuel 17

"Thank You" to all our Veterans!  Thank you for keeping us safe and free. We realize our freedoms come at a great cost.  We also realize we need a strong military because we have enemies that want to do us harm, not only us but also other countries of the world.  I think we would all agree we wish it wasn't so, we wish there was peace for all of mankind, a world without war or threats of war.  But we are in a broken world, Jesus Himself said "and you will hear of wars and rumors of wars.  See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet." (cf. Matt. 24)  So although we can only mitigate war and not be totally free from it we can be free from fear and worrying.  Just as we have enemies in the physical realm, make no mistake about it, you and I have an enemy in the spiritual realm and he wants to hold you captive to your insecurities.  He wants to hold you captive through your bad habits by those things becoming addictions.  He wants to hold you captive via fear and worrying. But there is one greater and His name is Jesus.  Jesus can will give us freedom from those things that hold us captive, He will give us freedom from worrying!  Jesus said of Himself "...He (LORD God) sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of the sight to the blind, to set liberty those who are oppressed..." 

(cf. Lk 4:18-19)  Jesus posed the question in Matt.6:27 "which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?"  Oh yes, life gives us much to worry about: our country; world; families; finances; health; growing old; relationships; jobs...but Jesus wants to free us from worrying.  Jesus said "therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." (Matt.6:34)

No, Jesus doesn't expect us to hide our heads in the sand, He expects us to do our part but at the end of day give all your cares and worries to him and He promises to give you "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

(cf. Phil.4:6-7)

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"Honor the LORD"  Read Proverbs 3:1-10

We honor the LORD, one, by learning to wholly putting our trust in Him - not always easy, and sometimes it means "letting go."

G. Campbell Morgan well said, "Our joy is in proportion to our trust.  Our trust is in proportion to our knowledge of God."

A living faith in troubled times becomes even more dependent upon God.

We might not always know the "why?" and "how long?"  We may still have more questions than answers, but a living faith continues to trust in the sovereignty of God and His word.  We continue to walk by faith even if our circumstances don't change.  I like how Warren Wiersbe puts it, "God doesn't always change the circumstances, but He can change us to meet the circumstances.  That's what it means to live by faith."

The prophet Habakkuk had a godly burden and vision for his nation and God's people.  He responded by waiting upon God and prayer.  As he prayed "O LORD, revive Your work in the midst of the years!"  he continued to worship the LORD and recognize His sovereignty in all things - "...His glory covered the heavens, and the earth was full of His praise...You divided the earth with rivers.  The mountains saw You and trembled...the sun and moon stood still in their habitation...I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.  The LORD God is my strength..."

The LORD did bring revival, but His way and His timing.  May we be a people of faith, a people of faith with a godly burden and response to our trouble times.  A people of faith that trusts in the one true God and in our Savior and Lord - the Lord Jesus Christ!  

Corrie Ten Boom well said, "Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength."

Are you anxious, are you worried?  Then,  "...let your requests be made know to God, and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." - Phil. 4: 6-7

'Trust in the LORD with ALL your heart...in ALL your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths... Honor the LORD with (ALL) your possessions...so your barns will be filled with plenty."

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"Sent from God"   Read John 1: 6-13

I've run for as long as I can remember but at one point I lost my love for running and quit for a short period.  The last few years I picked it back up because I felt the need to lose some weight and a desire to get healthier in my 'aging' years!  My early morning (4:30 am) treadmill runs have become drudgery.  I have set some lofty goals, which I still have (but have had to adjust my timeline), to help me to be consistent and to help motivate me to get to the gym, but I had lost my love for running.  Thankfully I found it again.  All this being said, my goals I have set are good goals but I had to get back to 'why' I run in the first place - because I love it!  I had to get back to enjoying the process and journey, the goals are just 'icing on the cake!'

There are many spiritual applications to this thought process when it comes to salvation. We must get back to embracing the process and journey. We initially come to Jesus Christ for salvation because we want to go to heaven and avoid hell and hopefully we come to love Jesus and His word, but through the course of time we can become so goal oriented as a church, as believers that we lose our first love that Jesus warned us about in Revelation chapter two.  Jesus has called us into a relationship with Him!  Yes, He desires us to keep heaven in front of us but He intends for us to enjoy the journey and to live intentionally - to not lose the joy of our salvation - to not lose our love for Him, His word and His church!

We serve Him in our little sphere of influence because we love Him!

And it is only as we love Him that we can truly be His "ambassadors" that His word calls us to be (ref. 2 Cor.5: 20).  He desires us to love Him and others.  Mankind's greatest need is to love and be loved - this starts with knowing, accepting and continuing your faith in Jesus Christ!

You and I are now "sent from God" so that other's "might believe" and "become children of God" through faith in Jesus Christ.

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

Join us this Sunday @ 10:30 for our 'Homecoming' service featuring the 'Gospel Servants' as the Brooklyn church of God celebrates 62 years of ministry!  Lunch following the service.

"Homecoming" can be defined as a time when you look back at all the fellowship that has happened up to this point in your life's journey.  All the happy times and all the sad times, all the people that have passed through your life, past and present, and all those that have passed through the Gates of the Kingdom of Heaven.  Homecoming is not about a building, but about people and relationships.  It is a gathering place of refuge, a place of fellowship, and for some a place to find Jesus Christ for the very first time.  

Homecoming should be a place where you always feel welcome, a place you should be able to be yourself, a place where you can meet God for the very first time or find your way back again after a long journey away from Him.

See Homecoming is a special time for all of us to feel the peace we had when we first were saved, its a time to rekindle a fire, or a time to re-energize your batteries.

Our prayer today as we Celebrate what God has done, should also be that someone today, that does not know the love, joy and peace of the Lord  Jesus Christ that so many of us in years back have enjoyed, finds their way back home, that someone receives the gift of salvation, and starts their own memory of coming home.

This is a celebration and a time to rejoice in the love, grace and mercy we have found in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

It is a time to remember Jesus' words, "In My Fathers' house are many mansions, if it were not so, I would have told you.  I go to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also...I am the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE." (cf. John 14)

Homecoming - Blessed Assurance.  Jesus is mine!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"All things work together for good"    Read Romans 8: 18-28

"I will lift up my eyes to the hills - from whence comes my help?  My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth." - Ps.121:1-2

Life is messy.  We are broken people living in a broken world - precisely why Jesus came.  Jesus came to make all things new.  We can experience that newness now, through the new birth, but life is still messy.  Someday Jesus is coming back again to restore all things (no more mess)!  His word declares He is going to make a new heaven and new earth where righteousness dwells.  But until then, life is messy.  The redemption of mankind via the cross was messy business!  Jesus didn't come to save us from all the mess but to give us help and hope in the mess until He comes back to make all things new.  I've come to a conclusion, due in part, to things out of my control that I will not discuss (the Spirit, my helper and intercessor knows).  The conclusion is this, either God is the God of all or He is not God at all!  Meaning, by faith I choose to believe all the promises of God (over 3,000) or I don't believe any of it!  The God that said, "For He (God) so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life" - is the same God that said, "all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."

It's easier for us to believe John 3:16, but hard to accept Romans 8:28. You mean.... Yes, all things!  Not that all things are good, but if by faith we will place our trust and hope in Him, give Him our mess - He will use it ultimately for good, even if we don't see it on this side of heaven.  Church is it time we either believe and obey the whole council of God's word - or none of it!  I am choosing by faith to embrace the whole council of God's word - how about you?!  The God of heaven and earth has this (you)!

"The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore" (Ps121: 8).  Amen!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"New Life in the Spirit"   Read Romans 8:1-11

"Spirit" is referenced eleven times in the above text, emphasizing the importance of the Spirit in the life of the Christ follower.

The bibles says that "The LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being." - Gen.2:7

The KJV says "living soul."  Breath in Hebrew is 'Ruach', same word for Spirit.  God created man by putting His 'breath', His Spirit, within him.

We are spiritual beings, we have souls, souls that are going last for eternity in one of two places, according to the Bible. The bible is very clear what humankind does with the person and work of Jesus Christ determines their eternal destiny.  Our walk with Christ is initiated by the Spirit and continues in the Spirit. Evil seems to be increasing in our culture, but we've read the book (The bible, God's word. The full canon of scripture. Inspired word of God contained from Genesis to Revelation) - we WIN!  If you are in Christ you are on the winning side!  But make no mistake about it, we are still in a fight, a fight for the souls of men and women.  The bible is very clear that God is "not willing that any should perish but that ALL should come to repentance" (cf. 2 Pet.3:9).  You see, the LORD God desires that ALL would come to Him, through Jesus Christ.  Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through Me." - John 14:6   The evil that is going on in our country and world is not a battle of the flesh but of the spirit, and can only be won in the spirit.  We must continue to pray and stand for truth, God's truth.  God's word is the greatest love letter of all time to mankind.  The gospel of Jesus Christ is not a gospel of hate but of love.  We must continue to love one another and pray for one another.  Jesus said, "...love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." - Matt.5:44

Jesus is not going to tell us to do something that He will not empower us to do, but we cannot do this in the flesh.  It takes the spirit of God is us to  fulfill what God wants to accomplish through us.  Just as we must take care of our physical body, we must take care of and guard our spiritual body via repentance, prayer, reading of God's word, preaching of God's word, assembling together to encourage one another.  Yes, we are on the winning side, but we must continue to do our part - "...glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's" (Cf. 1 Cor. 6:20).

Pastor Rodney (Ecclesiastes 12:9-14)

"Jesus died for you so you can live!"     Read Romans 5: 6-11

More senseless killings/shooting made the news this week - Ukrainian refugee stabbed to death on NC train; shooting at High School in Colorado, several students hurt; Charley Kirk, political activist, shot and killed while speaking at an event; bomb strikes in Gaza killed at least 150 people; Ukrainian military deaths estimated now at 46 to 70 thousand!  A lot more killings in our cities that haven't made the news or talked about. On top of all this we could talk about the estimated 25 to 30 thousand abortions that occur in the United States per week!  Not one soul is more important than the other - all equal in God's sight!  Those of us that have children or grandchildren feel like we could die for them.  It's one thing to die for them, its another to be taken from them.  But God doesn't call us to die He calls us to live! To live for the One who died for us so that we might have eternal life. His name is Jesus!  The bible says that "Christ died for the ungodly...while we were sinners Christ died for us" 

(cf. Romans 5:6-11).

My thoughts and prayers continue to go out to all the family and friends of these tragic events.  So senseless, so tragic, so devastating.  The human heart is capable of anything without the spirit of Christ dwelling in them!  Our span on this earth is somewhat out of our hands, but our span in eternity is in our hands - we just have to put our trust and hope in Him.

Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die" (cf. John 11:25-26).  I have attended and officiated a lot of funerals in my short lifetime, I've gone to one too many!  Our hope in the midst of tragedy, even when we don't understand the "why" of it all - is Jesus Christ.  He is our only hope in this life and beyond the grave. We must all live in a state of readiness because we don't know when our time will come, whether by some tragedy or just the course of time.  That is why the bible says, "behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation" (cf. 2 Cor. 6:2).

May we continue to lift up our prayers before the "throne of grace" to all those that have lost family and friends.  May we prayer for national repentance. May we pray for revival of the church.  May we pray for the Holy Spirit to come down upon us - "oh, that You would rend the heavens! That You would come down!  That the mountains might shake at Your presence!" (Cf. Isaiah 64:1).

Pastor Rodney, Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"Repentance - a New and Living Way"  Read Hebrews 10: 15-31

"The two most important days in your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why" - Mark Twain

Former retired Navy seal and four-star Admiral, William McRaven delivered one of the most inspiring commencement speeches that I have ever heard to the graduating class at the University of Texas in 2014 - "Make your bed" (You can still find it on YouTube).  I have this speech on the desktop of my laptop and listen to it frequently.  He speaks of how the little things matter.  He speaks of the power of hope and the power of one person to change the world. These are true statements (biblical too), but I think we have a hard time thinking that person can be us (you)!  Well, what does the power of hope and changing the world have to do with repentance?  Well, repentance by definition is a "transformative change of the mind that results in a turning away (sin) and a turning toward (God)."  

True repentance changes our behavior and attitude. It's an inward change that manifests itself in our outward actions and relationships.  Repentance begins in our minds and moves to our heart and actions.  We have many examples in our world and in our own lives of how one person made a difference. The greatest book of mankind reinforces this thought of hope and the power of change - the Bible!  And it is centered around the person and work of Jesus Christ!  Because of Jesus we have the power to change our eternal destiny.  Because of Jesus we can not only be saved from the penalty of sin but freed from the power of sin in our lives!  He has called and enabled us to "a new and living way!"  The authority of God's word says that "His divine power has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness" (2 Pet. 1:3). "Let us draw near", as the writer of Hebrews exhorts, "with a true heart in full assurance of faith" (cf.Heb.10:22).

Hope is contagious!  You have a living hope because of Jesus Christ. 

You were born for God's glory.  Live for the One who died for you and change the world, one person at a time!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

The bible says,"Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared fro those who love Him." - 1 Cor.2:9 

By the grace of God I have seen some beautiful places in my lifetime, but as beautiful as a place might be it is meaningless without the people you love.  I can show you a beautiful picture, but what gives it true meaning is the person in the picture.  "I can only imagine" lyrics about what heaven might be like it not as much about  the destination but who we will share eternity with.

Jesus said, "if you would believe you would see the glory of God!"

People are missing life's "measuring rod" when they choose not to believe.

On the other hand, when you choose to believe your eyes are opened to the glory of God and the purpose for your life!  We see the glory of God in nature itself (e.g. moon, stars, trees, oceans, rivers, streams, mountains), which is why the Bible says that mankind is without excuse "for since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made." (cf. Ro.1: 20)

We see the glory of God in children, each life "fearfully and wonderfully made, marvelous are Your works..." (cf. Ps.139: 13-16)

We witness the glory of God in a life that is transformed by the power of Jesus Christ in their life - that miracle of the spiritual new birth!

The Apostles were eyewitnesses to the glory of God - Jesus Christ "who being the brightness of His Glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power." (cf. Heb.1: 3)

John said "and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory! (cf. Jn 1: 14)

We see the glory of God through scripture, the Bible, from Gen. 1: 1, "In the beginning God created..." to  Rev. 22: 21, "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen."  We see the glory of God when our eyes are opened to the truth that "all scripture is given by inspiration of God" - "for the word of God is living and powerful!'

The bible opens our eyes to the reality of heaven and its glory!  The book of Revelation paints this picture: "the city was pure gold...the street of the city was pure gold...the glory of God illuminated it...pure river of water from the throne of God and of the Lamb...no more curse...no night there...no more tears...no more death...no more sorrow...no more pain..."

"Behold I make all things new!" - I can only imagine!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12: 9-14

"To be or not to be" is the opening phrase in the Shakespeare play "hamlet."

"To be" or "not to be" is a choice. One must choose "to be" or "not to be."

I know, sounds like a lot of modern theology or maybe words from a former Vice President - sincerely, no disrespect, just an observation.  But, "to be" is biblical.

To be a christian, one must chose to repent of their sins and come to Jesus Christ not only as Savior but as Lord - you chose to be a "Christ follower!"  You become a "be!"

The "Be's" in the Bible are intended to shape our character, our attitudes, our actions as Christ followers.

Be still and know that I am God!  (Ps 46:10)

Be strong in the Lord  (Eph.6:10)

Be joyful in hope  (Ro.12:12)

Be devoted to one another  (Ro.12: 10)

Be kind and compassionate  (Eph. 4:32)

Be alert and sober minded  (1 Pet.5:8)

Be faithful  (Rev.2:10)

Be filled with the Holy Spirit  (Eph.5:18)

Be holy for I am holy  (1 Pet.1:16)

BE GREAT!?

You're right if you think the bible does not say to be great!

We aspire to greatness in different areas of our life. I aspire to be a great son - a great brother - great husband - great father - great grandpa - great employee - great pastor - great preacher - great runner - a great follow of Jesus Christ!

But what makes an individual great?  What makes a nation great?  What makes a church great?  What is true greatness?  

In Jesus' words, "...whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant...for even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." (cf. Mk. 10:43-45)  So humility and servanthood is at the root.

The bible, in the book of Deuteronomy (ch.4) the LORD God called Israel "a great nation" three times.  Three marks of true greatness can be gleaned from this text. True greatness seeks God's wisdom and understanding in all matters of life and death.  True greatness understands that personal prayer with the LORD our God is a priority because it draws us closer to Him, His presence.  True greatness sincerely seeks God's word to guide their life.  The world has its measuring rod for greatness (temporal).  The LORD God has His measuring rod for greatness (eternal). 

By the grace of God I want to be measured by God's greatness - how about you?!

Pastor Rodney   

Ecclesiastes 12: 9-14 

"Be still, and know that I am God" says the God of heaven and earth!  The creator and sustainer of life knows what is best for us, if we will only listen and wholly trust Him.

The apostle Paul, while in prison encouraged all believers to "be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might!" What an example and inspiration Paul was to believers then and now, even after all these years.

I don't know about you, but sometimes I don't want "to be strong."  Sometimes, I'm just tired of "doing", "fighting."  But those feelings and emotions are not reliable.  And it is in those times that I remind myself the 'strength' and 'doing' is not in of myself but as Paul said "in the Lord and the power of His might!"  Paul goes on to remind us in Ephesians chapter 6, that "we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against rulers of darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places!"  Evil in our world appears in all shapes, sizes and forms.  When God is working in you or among His people we can expect the devil to be working overtime.  But "greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world!"  The bible says to "resist the devil and he will flee from you."  Paul goes on to remind us in Ephesians to "take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day...be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one!"  When you and I realize that we are in a spiritual warfare and realize that we cannot do anything in our own strength but that we "can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (us)" - then we will be 'more than conquers through Him who loved us.!"  Jesus said "I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it!"  Who is the church?  Everyone that has accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and Lord!  Have you accepted Christ - have you invited Him in?

I pray that you have. If not, I pray that you will and that you will "take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God!"

God help me, help us to "open our mouths boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am (we) are His ambassadors."

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12: 9-14

"Look at others, and be distressed.  Look at yourself, and be depressed.  Look to God, and you'll be blessed."  This saying, although I do not know who authored it, has some good Biblical theology behind it.  Anytime we get our eyes off the Lord Jesus, we are headed for discouragement and trouble. Often we are 'weighed, measured and found wanting,' even at times among our own peers.  We need to be reminded that Jesus can understand and sympathize with our disappointments. The prophet Isaiah had to remind God's peoples when they were facing a difficult task and seeming impossible tomorrow to "lift up (their) eyes on high, and see who has created these things!" This same God has promised "those who wait on the LORD, shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint." (Isa. 40: 31)  To wait does not imply we do nothing, but to look to God for all that we need!   We can look to Him and lean upon His promises.  We can rely on His power - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Phil. 4:13)  We can rely upon His provision - "and my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." (Phil. 4:19)

Jesus said, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (cf. Matt.11: 28)

"God is our (my) refuge and strength!" (cf. Ps. 46)

"When they had lifted up their eyes" the Bible says "they saw no one but Jesus only!" (Cf. Matt.17:8)

Help us (help me) to see Jesus only, only He can satisfy. Only He will not disappoint.  "Be still, and know that I am God!" (cf. Ps 46:10)

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get."

• Movie Forrest Gump

There is some truth to that statement, life is ever-changing.  The Bible says, "to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under the heaven" (cf. Ecclesiastes 3).  According to the Bible there is a purpose to our ever-changing lives.  Life is purposeful and we serve a purposeful, sovereign God.  His desire is that His creation (humankind), you and me, made in His image, would put Him in the middle of our ever-changing lives!   God's greatest desire is to spend an eternity in heaven with you someday, but in the meantime He wants to dwell in the midst of those He loves - you and me.  He wants you to experience life to the fullest.  He wants your joy to be full and flowing over, but that can only happen as we willfully and intentionally put Him and His will for our lives right in the middle of our ever-changing lives and look to Him for direction.

Proverbs says, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths." (cf. 3: 5-6)

In the Old Testament God instructed the people to build a tabernacle, a tabernacle of meeting (a covering, a tent, or a home).  Why?  In short, God was looking for a home.  A place to dwell in the midst of those He loved and to journey with them.  We live in the New covenant, a covenant of grace (through Jesus Christ) and God still longs to dwell in our midst and journey with us.  God loves you so much!  He desires to be at the center of your life and to journey with you!  The forgiveness of sin is available to all through the blood of Jesus Christ and His greatest desire is to journey with you the whole way!  

Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 6:19, "do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you...?"

Jesus said, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock.  If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me." (Revelation 3: 20)

Has God found a home in you?  

Pastor Rodney

"Why does God allow the innocent to suffer?"

In the account of Job, the Bible says that he "was blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil" (Job 1).  It was when everything was taken from him, including his most precious possessions - his children, that Job questioned God, "have I sinned? What have I done to You, O watcher of man?  Why have You set me as Your target, so that I am a burden to myself?" 

(Job 7:20).

There is so much suffering in our world.  Some suffer as a result of bad choices and choices of others.  Some the result of sinful actions. But what about the innocent.  Job was innocent and yet he suffered so much loss.

Yes, I know that our world is fallen, and all creation suffers as a result, but what about the suffering of a child?  My heart goes out to all those in Texas that have lost loved ones.  Many at the christian children's camp lost their lives and many were swept away in the flood - yet to be found!  I cannot even imagine what the parents, grandparents, guardians of those children and the community are going through!  When we think about the innocent, children come to mind - such heartbreak!  Children are as close to innocence as anything is this world!  A parent shouldn't have to bury their child, and especially is such a tragic way!

God created everything out of nothing!  God holds the stars and planets in place.  He holds eternity in His hands!  He certainly could prevent innocent children from suffering!?  Why doesn't He?!  I don't possess the answer to that question and if anyone says they do - run!  I do know that without God in our lives we cannot get through such heartache.  I know too that if you have Christ in your life you will get through the tragedies of this life even if you don't know the why?  I don't know why God allowed my little brother to commit suicide years ago, but I know I got through it with the Lord's help.  I have never gotten over it but I've gotten through it!  And you will too with God's help!  Whatever circumstance you are facing, look to the Lord Jesus Christ to help you get through it.  It is okay to be angry.  It is okay to have questions.  It is okay to cry out to God - why?!  But don't blame the heartache of this life on God.  Stand upon His promises.  The devil will tell you to give up on God, don't do it!  Jesus has gone to make all things new.  Someday the Bible says there will be no more death nor goodbyes!  When others say "curse God and die", hold on to God instead and draw closer to Him.  May we like Job come to the conclusion, "naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return there.  The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD!

Let's stand united as "One Nation Under God" and pray for all those affected by the loss and devastation in Texas.  Pray for all those coming along side to help in rescue, search and rebuilding the community and affecting lives for eternity.

Rodney

"I thank God, whom I serve with a pure conscience, as my forefathers did...,that I may be filled with joy, when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you..." (cf. 2 Timothy 1:3-7)

Happy Independence Day!  - "A call to remembrance of our heritage and faith!"  I, for one, am thankful for my country.  I am thankful for the freedoms that I enjoy and take part in - my Independence!  I am thankful for my faith in the God of the Bible, and the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal savior and Lord!

I am thankful for the rich heritage of my "faith" and "country."  I am thankful for my dual citizenship - citizen of America and citizen of heaven!

From the Declaration on July 4th, 1776 to the present day, American Independence has been an annual celebration - celebrating the birth of the United States, and honoring God's role in its formation. Yes, America has a christian heritage.  For over two centuries, America's presidents have acknowledged a belief in God, looked to Him for guidance and credited Him for His blessings!  "In God We Trust" is America's official National motto, with variants "In God is our Trust" from America's national anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner."  The fundamental basis of this Nation's law was given to Moses on the Mount.  The fundamental basis of our Bill of Rights comes from the teachings which we get from Exodus and Matthew, from Isaiah and the Apostle Paul.

"Therefore," as Paul said, "I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you...for God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1: 6-7)

Never forget your rich heritage as a christian nation.  Place your faith in the God of the Bible and in the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord.  

Lastly, "Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king"

- 1 Peter 2:17

Happy Independence Day!  

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

Jehovah Mephalti - The Lord my Deliverer!  One of the great themes of the Bible is that God is our deliverer.  The bible is full of accounts and foreshadows of God's deliverance - from Genesis to Revelation - past, present and future!  God has promised to deliver all who, by faith, believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and Lord from the penalty and power of sin!  But what about all the other 'stuff' of life?!  When we face those times and or circumstances when we feel trapped with our backs against the wall and we don't see any way out!?  When our minds and hearts are held hostage by fear, worry and anxiety about the present and future!?  What about when we feel captive by grief because of the loss of a loved one and can't seem to move forward!?  What about when we don't feel comfortable in our own skin!?  Can we can be delivered from all this 'stuff' too?!  YES!  Jesus said, "The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD."                  - Luke 4: 18-19

When the 'stuff' of life presses in and tries to hold us captive we must trust and give it over to God.  God is the same yesterday, today and forever!  God can and will make a way where there is no way - just trust and believe!  The very one who saves you from sin desires to deliver you from the 'stuff' that holds you captive!

"...do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which He will accomplish for you today...the LORD will fight for you and shall hold your peace." - Exodus  14: 13-14

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give your rest." - Jesus

"Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you!" - 1 Peter 5:7

Come to Jesus - He will deliver you - He promised!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"Open doors."   What comes to mind when you think of 'open doors?'  I would usually think in terms of opportunity or adventure.  Growing up it could mean hearing "shut that door, do you think you live in a barn?!"  Not all doors are meant to stay open.  Not all doors are meant to open.  Some doors are already open.  Some doors we must open.  Some doors are sealed shut, so one would wonder was it really ever meant to be a door?

One example of an open door is our Pacers.  They will be in the NBA final game on Sunday.  Their path was not easy.  God has gifted the players with their ability but they have worked hard and sacrificed to be in this position.  The door wasn't opened for them, they opened the door to a possibility of an NBA championship.  For most of us our 'open doors' are only realized after the fact, once we grow older and look back to the 'doors' we passed through and the ones we closed.  Maybe we look back with some regrets and maybe some gratitude.  But God would have us to look forward to the opportunities and adventures ahead of us, with the realization that the earthly and heavenly are meant to be woven together in a spiritual sense.  The bible reminds us "because of the hope which is laid up for you in heaven...the truth of the gospel" (Col.1:5).

Jesus reminds the faithful congregation in Revelation chapter three, "...I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it."  We want to go through doors Jesus opens for us and use those opportunities for His glory, whatever or wherever that may be!   We must use our time, talent and treasures for His glory.  Even our trials and tribulations can be used for His glory - have you read the book?!  The apostle Paul is a great example for us of this very thing.  While in prison for sharing the gospel he writes a letter of encouragement and prays that "...God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak" (Col.4: 3-4).

God help us during our mountain tops, valleys and in between to be mindful of the 'big picture' - people need the Lord!  God help us to view our opportunities, adventures, passions, trials as 'open doors' to share the good news of Jesus Christ!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

Happy Father's Day!  This Father's Day marks my 10th year anniversary as pastor of the Brooklyn church of God, and my 2nd year without my dad, he passed on Sunday, September 24, 2023.

My dad was in attendance for my first message ten years ago as he we almost every message I preached from the pulpit since 2005. He was my greatest support and I miss him very much.  I was able to officiate my dad's funeral, one because he asked me to and secondly because I new he had "bowed his knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!"  (cf. Eph.3:14).  I have many descriptive words for my dad but what I am most proud of and thankful for is that he repented of his sins and accepted Jesus Christ as his savior and Lord ('bowed his knees') and became part of that eternal family "from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named."

Our world in which we live 'bow their knees' to a lot of things in this life - money, political parties, sports, family, drugs, alcohol, sex, jobs, power and position just to name a few.  Tragically, pride and self-reliance will keep many of men out of the kingdom of God because they refuse to 'bow their knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."  I am glad my dad didn't refuse.  I am glad Paul, the writer of Ephesians (and the majority of the new testament) didn't refuse. 

Not only Fathers but men are important to our society.  I am so thankful for my dad and the men through my life that have influenced me in a positive way.  God said to "honor your father and your mother."  My dad is gone so I now honor him by honoring my mother.  My mother will be gone some day too and I hope to continue to honor them both by honoring the one who created us all "the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named."

I will be gone from this earth myself someday too.  I pray my children and grandchildren will honor me by honoring the one who created them and pray that if they haven't they one day too will "bow their knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ" and become part of the "whole family in heaven and earth is named."  That is the gospel hope.  My prayer this fathers day is that you come to Christ if you haven't.

Happy Father's Day!

Pastor Rodney

"'Therefore' of the resurrected life"  

Hopefully we paused our busy lives on Memorial weekend to remember those that served our great Nation and who gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms - their lives.  There is one too that gave His life so that we might have hope beyond the grave - His name is Jesus.  As I grow older and loved ones pass, I am more and more thankful for hope beyond the grave, but if you are reading this you are not in the grave yet!  Live out your life as God intended and in preparation for what lies beyond this life.

Spring is one of my favorite seasons - everything springs back to life!  For that life to spring back to "fruitfulness" it takes water and plenty of sun shine.  Nothing pleases nor glorifies God more than when we "spring to life" in the spirit.  That is, we start walking in the spirit.  Walking means progression - we progressively and intentionally continue to put off the old self, and continually put on the new man/woman.  We surrender ourselves to the Holy Spirit and see ourselves having died to sin (the old man/woman) and having become alive with Christ.  I like how Galatians 2:20 puts it, "...it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me..."   God has given us all that we need to grow, so that our "inward man is being renewed day by day"   But we must prepare, or set, our heart to seek Him - "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you..." (James 4:8)  The Bible says that the truly blessed person is the one that "His delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night.  He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper." 

We plan and look forward to a lot of things in this life, but the most important is yet to come!  

Therefore, "...put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him" (Col.3: 10).

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

Memorial Day - a time to remember.  A time to remember those who gave their lives for the freedoms that we enjoy.  A time to remember loved ones, family and friends that have passed on recently and a long time ago.  A time to remember that there is life beyond the grave.  A time to remember "thus says the LORD; stand in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; then you will find rest for your souls." - Jeremiah 6: 16

It is good, and needful, to remember - not so as to stay in the past, but to help us to live rightly in the present and stay hopeful of the future.  A hope not based upon human wisdom, but a sure and steadfast hope, based upon the solid foundation of God's eternal word - the Bible.   "For this reason," Paul  said, "I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things"

What things? - the basics of the christian hope!

Robert Driskell said, "(one) reason our country's moral climate is degenerating is the failure of Christians (christ followers) to be diligent in our walk with Jesus."  There is some truth to that.  Can America rightly be called a Christian Nation?!  I can't answer for America.  I can't answer for those that have gone before me.  I can't answer for you.  I can only answer for myself, but those that have gone on before remind me that I will have to give an answer someday to the only one that matters!  God's word in that day will judge me and you.  We aren't to live in fear but in obedience to His word.  And when we do, we can count on His promises!

"O Death, where is your sting?  O Hades, where is your victory?...but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Corinthians 15: 55-58)

Happy Memorial Day!  May we never forget!

God Bless and Godspeed!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12: 9-14

George Muller once said, "Faith does not operate in the realm of the possible. There is no glory for God in that which is humanly possible. Faith begins where man's power ends."

Don Moen, stated: "God will make a way where there seems to be no way, He works in ways we cannot see."

Jesus said, "...with men this is impossible, but with God ALL things are POSSIBLE!" (cf. Matthew 19: 26)

"Dare to believe God for the impossible!"

Knowing that "if this plan or work is of men it will come to nothing, but if it is of God, you cannot otherthrow it - lest you even be found to fight against God." (Acts 5: 38-39)

I'm not talking about those things that are humanly possible.

But I'm talking about those impossible things in our lives.  Those roadblocks, mountains, and/or giants in our lives that we just cannot humanly overcome or breakthrough.  Those things or places in our lives where we have come to a dead end with no exit, our Red Sea!

Those areas in our lives where we have done all that we can do, time and time again and failed or seen no fruit - those impossible things!

I dare to believe God for the impossible.  How about you?!

"Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever.  Amen (Jude 24-25)

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"Well may we pause to pay honor to her who after Jesus Christ is God's best gift to men, mother. It was she who shared her life with us when as yet our members were unformed, into the valley of the shadow of death she walked that we might have the light of life. In her arms was the garner of our food and the soft couch for our repose. There we nestled in the hour of pain; there was the playground of our infant glee.

Those same arms later became our refuge and stronghold. It was she who taught our baby feet to go and lifted us up over the rough places. Her blessed hands plied the needle by day and by night to make our clothes. She put the book under our arm and started us off for school. But best of all, she taught our baby lips to lisp the name of Jesus and told us first the wondrous story of a Savior's love."

• Motherhood, by W.L.Calwell written in 1928

The bible says, "God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them" (Gen.1:27). 

Creator God, made no mistakes.   He created you, male or female and we all arrived here via our mother's womb - even Jesus Himself, the Savior of humankind - "And she (Mary) will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins" (Matt. 1:21).  Almighty God himself instituted and sanctified the family unit. And He has called us to honor that institution.  It only works well when we follow God's design as intended.

Jesus not only instituted our earthly family, He brought forth the eternal family of God via the new birth - "for whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother" - Jesus (Matt.12:50). 

"I'm so glad I'm a part of the Family of God,

I've been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His Blood!

Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod,

For I'm part of the family,

The Family of God."

As we pause to remember and honor our earthly mother's this weekend, may we also remember and praise God for the promise of our eternal 'family of God" - present and future!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

Yes, "PAID IN FULL!"  Jesus paid our 'sin debt" at calvary, but praise God He did not stay in the grave - "up from the grave He arose, with a mighty triumph o'er His foes; He arose a victor from the dark domain, and He lives forever with His saints to reign; He arose! He arose! Hallelujah! Christ arose! (Lyrics, 'Christ Arose', Robert Lowry)

That is indeed good news - no, its actually great news!  Jesus paid our sin debt and He not only defeated sin and death, but the grave!

There is more proof on the life, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ than anything in history! But I don't need proof. I know He lives because "He lives within my heart."  As that great hymn, 'He Lives' goes - "I serve a risen Savior, He's in the world today; I know that He is living, whatever foes may say; I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer, and just the time I need Him He's always near.  He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today!  He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way.  He lives, He lives, salvation to impart!  You ask me how I know He lives?  He lives within my heart." (Lyrics, 'He Lives!', Alfred H. Ackley) 

Paul reminds us in Colossians chapter 3, "if then you were raised with Christ", 'if', speaking to the certainty of the matter.  Raised with Christ is a present and future reality.  Present reality through the new birth - born again of the Spirit!  Future reality - we will be with Christ and all the redeemed and have a new glorified body!  Since we know these things to be true, because almighty God has declared it, Paul says we should "seek and set our minds on things above" (cf. Colossians 3:1-4).

See, our creator knew that it is only when we are 'heavenly minded' that we are of the most 'earthly good!"  The Easter message did not end on Easter Day, it was only the beginning of 'all things new!'

"When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory!"

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

"PAID IN FULL!"  Those are sweat words.  If you have ever had a loan, you know and understand what a blessing those words are.  Or, maybe you worked for years to be able to purchase something in cash, you understand what a blessing to pay in full!  Something most of us can't relate to though is someone else paying off our debt.  That is just what some anonymous donor(s) did for the Brooklyn church of God.  We (the church) had a promissory note that would mature in 2034 and we received a check and letter from an anonymous donor(s) to pay our loan off, with extra going toward maintenance projects.  What a blessing, so unexpected!  Once we took the check to our lender the loan was paid off and we received those beautiful words in letter form -

 "PAID IN FULL!"  Had the church not turned the check into our lender the debt would still be owed.  Had we just put the check in a nice frame to be displayed the debt would still be owed.  We had to apply the check to the debt - I know we all understand this but there is a spiritual application here too. 

Well, maybe not all of us have had financial debt.  Maybe we have never experienced someone paying off our debt but one thing we all have in common is - we all have a sin debt!  Jesus paid that sin debt - PAIN IN FULL!  But we must come to Christ to 'cash the check!'

The bible says "for the wages of sin is death!"  You and I have a debt that we cannot pay, only Jesus can pay our sin debt.  Yes, 'the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Ro.6:23)

For those that come to Jesus Christ by faith the Bible promises "He has make alive together with Him...having wiped out the handwriting of requirements against us...taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross!" (cf. Colossians 2: 13-15) - PAIN IN FULL!

What a blessing!  What a savior we have in Jesus Christ!

Pastor Rodney

"These things I have written to you...that you may know..." - 1 John 5:13

In my pastoral ministry, the most difficult Sunday for me to preach has  always been on Easter and Christmas - the simplest message, the most difficult to preach.  Why?  Because everyone knows and have heard the messages on the birth and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.  Everyone knows but unfortunately not everyone believes.  Everyone on Easter Sunday, saved and unsaved alike, will go to church knowing what they will hear.  There is no new revelation.  Jesus said, "it is finished!"  Those that didn't follow Christ, as well as those that did, thought 'yes it is finished' but not in the way Jesus was revealing.  Jesus defeated sin, death and the grave for all of mankind, for you, and for me!  Over 500 were eyewitnesses to the physical resurrection of Jesus Christ!  He is risen - He is risen indeed!  That is good news!  Provides us with the blessed hope beyond the grave and the reuniting of those who have gone on before us, if we too have truly believed and received what Jesus did on our behalf.  Why would anyone want to reject such a wonderful blessing?!  You may feel like you have a valid reason, and even without knowing your reason, I know its not reason enough!  The message is so simple a child can understand it.  In fact, Jesus said "...unless you are converted and become as little children, you will my no means enter the kingdom of heaven."  The prophet Daniel prophesied "...many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase!" -

And yet, mankind is getting further and further from the truth, God's truth.

Jesus said ,"I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die."  Then Jesus went on to ask that all important question in reference to what He just communicated - "do you believe this?" 

If you haven't, say 'yes' to Jesus today!  And if you have, help others to come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord!  With God's help, like the account of Lazarus in John chapter eleven, help role away the stone of unbelief so that one may come forth from the grave!

Happy Easter - He is risen!  Are you?!

Pastor Rodney

'"That you may know' -  Battling the flesh"

The bible says, "These things I have written...that you may know you have eternal life...", 1 John 5:13

I find myself having a lose for words these days. Life doesn't make since at times.  We all at times, whether spoken or unspoken, wonder where God is in certain situations and events of life.  Humanly speaking the suffering Christ had to endure for our salvation doesn't make since - seems there could have been a different way?  But the Bible says there was no other way or plan.  By faith, I chose to believe God at His word.  This thing of faith is a battle of the flesh and mind.  God has given us His Word and Spirit but we still battle the flesh.  That is why Jesus reminds us that "the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak."  There are recorded over 300 prophesies in the Bible that point to Jesus as the messiah - the savior of mankind.  The odds of one person fulfilling just 8 of those prophesies are 1 in 10,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 (10 to the 28th power)!

Jesus fulfilled all 300 plus! - leaving no doubt that Jesus was the one sent by God to save mankind!  Yes Jesus was fully divine, but He was fully human too, meaning He battled with the flesh just like you and I except He was without sin - that is what the Bible says, and I chose by faith to go with the Bible (the odds are in its favor)!  I am sure those that were at the cross, eyewitness' of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ were at a lose for words and were battling the flesh of doubt - "how can this be happening?" - although Jesus Himself foretold them of these events.  Jesus Himself echoed from the cross in those last moments "My God, My God why has Thou forsaken Me" and "I thirst."  Although these words of Jesus were 2 of the 300 plus prophesies fulfilled, we can so 'over spiritualize' these events that we miss the human element.  Jesus was fully human - like you and me.  He came in the flesh not only to save us from our sins but so that He could identify with you and me. He fully knew pain, suffering, hardache, disappointment, loneliness, hunger, thirst, abandonment...

What a Savior we have in Jesus Christ!  "These thing I have written...that you may know!"   You can trust Him with your present and eternity!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

The human plight involves suffering, no way around it.  We suffer lose.  We suffer disappointments and setbacks.  We suffer through the aging process.  We suffer heartache of all shapes and sizes. But not all suffering is bad in of itself though.  We suffer through schooling to get our degree.  The soldier suffers through training to make them battle ready.  We suffer through medical procedures to help us heal.  The athlete suffers through training to make themselves the best they can be.  We at times suffer through work to make a living.  Women suffer through giving birth to bring about life.  The follower of Jesus suffers discipline to be more like Him.  We may enter into the suffering of others, because that is what loves does.   In every case one must commit to the process for the greater good. Jesus Himself, the Bible says "learned obedience by the things which He suffered" and the Bible goes on to say, "and having being perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him" (Hebrews 5: 8-9).

The bible reminds us, "...Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps" (1 Peter 2: 21).  Peter goes on to refer to Jesus as "the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls."

One day all human suffering is going to cease.  The bible promises in Revelation 21, "...God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.  There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."

But you and I are not in heaven yet, so we must commit to the process, and more importantly commit to the "Overseer of our souls!"  Jesus is our example.  He committed Himself to the plan of salvation - "by whose stripes we are healed!"  

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope!" (Jeremiah 29:11)

Commit to the process, put your trust in Him - the Overseer of your soul!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12: 9-14

The bible reminds us in Psalm 90:10 "the days of our lives are 70 years, and if by reason of strength they are 80...so teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Jesus said He conquered the grave and death - doesn't seem like that for us when loved ones, family and friends pass away but make no mistake about it, for those that know Jesus Christ, they are more alive now than they have ever been!

The late D.L.Moody said, "some day you will read in the papers that D.L.Moody, of East Northfield, is dead. Don't you believe a word of it!  At that moment I shall be more alive than I am now, I shall have gone up higher, that is all; out of this  old clay tenement into a house that is immortal - a body that death cannot touch; that sin cannot taint; a body fashioned like unto His glorious body.

I was born of the flesh in 1837.  I was born of the Spirit in 1856.  That which is born of the flesh may die.  That which is born of the Spirit will live forever! 

So, as the poem goes...

"When tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, that an angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand; The angel said my place was ready, In Heaven far above, and that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love.  But when I walked through Heaven's Gates, I felt so much at home, for God looked down, smiled at me, and told me 'Welcome Home!'  So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we'er far apart, for every time you think of me, I'm right there in your heart." - unknown

The Apostle Paul proclaimed, "for to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain!" (Phil.1:21)

Do you have that assurance?  If not, you can have.  "...believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved!"  The Bible says, "eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man that things which God has prepared for those who love Him." - 1 Corinthians 2: 9

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12: 9-14

I'm sure you've heard the expression, "if looks could kill!"  Most likely at one time or another you've been on the receiving end of that look, or you've given that look yourself to someone, intentionally or not.  That facial expression that conveys anger or disapproval.  That silent expression that speaks louder than words.

Becky and I are celebrating 44 years of marriage as I pen this week's pastor desk.  She is truly my helpmate, soulmate, companion and friend. My partner in ministry and 'travel buddy!"  We've been married long enough now to know what we're each thinking, and yes, we've both exchanged 'that look' - 'if looks could kill', a time or two to one another, but we've forgiven and moved on, that's what true loves does.  We read in the gospel account where Jesus was spending His last moments with his disciples before His arrest and crucifixion.  In one exchange of conversation Peter remarks to Jesus, "even if all are made to stumble because of You, I will never be made to stumble." Jesus replies to Peter, "assuredly, I say to you that this night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times." (cf. Matt.26: 33-34)   Fast forward, Peter does deny knowing Jesus three times.  In fact the scripture says that at one point during Jesus arrest and questioning by the high priest Peter began to curse and swear, saying, "I do not know the Man!" (Cf. Matt.26:74)

In Luke's account it says, "...immediately, while he (Peter) was still speaking, the rooster crowed.  And the Lord turned and looked at Peter." (cf. Lk 22: 61) - "if looks could kill!"  But this look from Jesus was not one of anger or disappointment.  It was not a look of 'I told you so."  It was a look of compassion, love and forgiveness.  It was a look that said 'this is not the end - only the beginning."  It was a look that said 'I'm going to make all things new."

It was a look that said, "Peter, this is not the end of your story!"

We read in the gospel of John (21), where Jesus met up with Peter after His physical resurrection. It was a meeting of compassion, love, restoration and commissioning.

Your story is still be written.  No matter how much you think you may have failed, Jesus looks upon you with compassion, love, restoration and commissioning.  Put your life in Jesus' hand, and He will write a wonderful story through your life that will make its mark in this life for His glory!

Pastor Rodney

Never give up on yourself or others!  Continue to set goals and make plans.  But I would encourage you as you're planning and setting goals to: 1) make room for God's word , 2) make room for the Holy Spirit,  3) make room for God's passion [people], and 4) make room for God's church!

It has been said that, "If it wasn't for people and things, life would be easy."  Well, no doubt people (including myself) can be challenging sometimes, and things can get in the way.  But life is really all about people and relationships.  "God intended for us to love people and use things, not love things and use people."  People are eternal, not things.  People were always the focus and the passion of Christ.  Jesus loved people unconditionally.  His greatest desire is that all people would be part of His family - the family of God - His church - 'the Bride of Christ!"  No one loves you like Jesus.  With Jesus there are no strings attached.  He doesn't look at gender, color, race, social status, material wealth, vocation, education or popularity.  Jesus doesn't look at your failures or success.  Jesus doesn't look at you with the attitude, "what can you do for me?"  Jesus simply looks at YOU.  The you that 'only you know', and He loves you anyway and wants you to be a part of His family.  His eternal, everlasting family - the family of God.   All of us have the need to belong and to be loved.  There is nothing compared to belonging to Christ and His family.  There is no greater love than the love of Christ.  "I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God - I've been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood!  Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod, For I'm part of the family, the family of God.   From the door of an orphanage to the house of the King - No longer an outcast, a new song I sing; from rages unto riches, from the weak to the strong; I'm not worthy to be here, but praise God I belong!" - Gloria and William Gaither

We are all broken and imperfect.  But we are His church and we need one another.

That is why the writer of Hebrews wrote, "let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching" (Heb.10: 24-25).  Family is important!  His visible church is important!  God help us to unite as we reach our world for Christ!

Pastor Rodney

Wisdom for the New Year - “make room for God’s word!”

I love that old hymn,The church’s Jubilee, by Charles Naylor - “The bible is our rule of faith and Christ alone is Lord!”  If we are not sitting under the consistent preaching of God’s word, if we are not sitting consistently under the word for ourselves, we cannot make such claims. 

God’s word is to be our final authority.  God’s word is to be our plumb line (cf Amos 7:7), our standard to live and die by!

Jesus reminds you and me that “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away!”  

It is only by the help of the Holy Spirit and God’s word that we can make since out of life. I don’t have the answer for the tragedies we have already seen this new year but my thoughts and prayers are going out for all the families affected.  Although I don’t understand, I believe with all my heart and soul that God is still sovereign even when we don’t understand.  I want to encourage you to make room for God’s word as you make plans and set goals.  God’s word gives us the history of mankind and his/her future with Him if we choose, and our future without Him if we choose.  God has given each one of us the free will, free to choose how we shall live.  Choose to live by the truth “it is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God’” (Jesus) or choose to live by the lie “you will not surely die.” (Devil)  

The enemy is real (devil) and the battle is spiritual, but God is faithful and He is good.  We have the power of God’s word, the authority of Jesus’ name and the help of the Holy Spirit to be overcomer’s! - “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!” - “greater is He who is in you, then he who is in the world!” 

May God help us as a nation, may God help the church at large, may God help you and me to return to trusting in the authority of scripture - “It is written!” - “thus says the Lord!”

God help us not to neglect His word this year but to give the Bible a central place!

“I will meditate on Your precepts, and contemplate Your ways.  I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget your Word.” - Psalm 119: 15-16

Pastor Rodney

Advent of Joy

“Joy to the world! The Lord is come: Let earth receive her king…”

“It is joy unspeakable and full of glory, full of glory…”

“Joyful, joyful, we adore thee, God of glory, Lord of love…” - these are just a few hymns of expression of joy.  The words “joy,” “rejoice,” or “joyful” appear in the Bible 430 times (English version), compared with “happy” or “happiness,” which appears only ten times.  So one could conclude (based on His word) that God desires for us to experience joy and that joy and happiness are not one and the same.

Happiness is dependent on external things, Joy is internal.  Happiness is circumstance based, Joy is Christ based.  Happiness is by chance, Joy is a choice - “today is the day that the Lord hath made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!”

Christmas season is easier to be joyful, and should be a joyful time, but what about the daily routine of life?

 Life in general has a way of “robing” us of our Joy.  Even the everyday routines and responsibilities of life can “squeeze” the Joy from our souls.  But does this have to be the case?  Can we live our lives without losing our “Joy?”  The Bible says, “yes.”   I believe the key is found in Psalm 16: 11, “…in your PRESENCE there is FULLNESS of JOY…”   As a Christ follower Jesus has promised He would never leave us nor forsake us.  He has promised His Holy Spirit to dwell in us and among us.  He has promised us eternal life!  He said that we are joint heirs with Christ, and that at His “right hand are pleasures forevermore!”   By staying in Jesus’ PRESENCE we can “count it all JOY” when the path of life takes us down the road of trials of various kinds. (cf. James 1:2)  Yes, with God’s help we can live a life overflowing with JOY because of the PRESENCE of Christ in our lives! “You will show me the path of life; in Your PRESENCE there is FULLNESS of JOY; at Your right hand are pleasures.”  - Psalm 16: 11 

Jesus said in John 15:11 “These things I have spoken to you, that MY JOY may remain in you, and that YOUR JOY MAY BE FULL!”

God is not the big joy killer, He is the author and sustainer of true joy!  

In Jesus Christ we have hope.  This hope brings peace.  With peace comes joy.  At the root of hope, is Jesus’ love for you and me!

Pastor Rodney

Waiting, waiting, waiting,…no one likes waiting.  Waiting for things or someone to get better.  Waiting for reconciliation from a broken relationship.  Waiting for that diagnosis from the doctor.  Waiting for answer to prayer.  Waiting for the grief you feel of a loved one that passed away not to hurt so much.  Waiting for that perfect job.  Waiting for your soul mate.  Waiting for college to be over so you can pursue that vocation.  Waiting to go on that much needed vacation.  Waiting for that long awaited arrival of family or friends.  Waiting for that retirement, so close, yet so far.  Waiting in line at a restaurant.  Waiting on the phone when you’ve been put on hold.  Waiting for a thrill ride at seaworld (Mako) to be over and hoping you will live to tell about it!  Waiting to lose some weight or get in shape.

Waiting for…(you fill in the blank).  We are all waiting on something or someone at one time or another.  Waiting, in hopeful anticipation is just part of life.  In terms of the Christmas story, the prophet Isaiah foretold of the coming Messiah over 700 years prior to His coming - waiting for the promise. “Where is the promise of His coming” (2 Pet.3:4) some scoff at His second coming.  In the parable of the parodical son, as told by Jesus in the gospel of Luke (15) the father was waiting for his rebellious son to come home.  Waiting is not only hard, but Proverbs says that “hope deferred makes the heart sick” (13:12).

“Defer” means to put off to a later time or postpone.  When you and I are hoping for something, we typically want it now, we don’t want to put it off for later.  What are you waiting for?  If you are a Christian (Christ follower), I encourage you to wait on the Lord in your waiting - yes, do your part, but then wait and trust on His sovereignty in all matters of life and death.  We are people of faith that can trust in His word - “…though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry” (Hab.2:3).

If you have not come to Jesus Christ, I encourage you to wait no longer - do it today!  “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16)!

Pastor Rodney

Becky and I are blessed with four grandchildren (two grandsons and two granddaughters).  I have one grandson that frequently tells me, “papa, I just don’t know what I would do without you.”   Of course this melts grandpa’s heart, and I tell him the same.  But it is highly likely there will be a day when he will have to live without me.  But when he says that to me it reminds me that I have the responsibility to not only encourage him but also to live out a life that depends on the ‘ROCK,’ Jesus Christ.  Jesus Christ and His word is the only sure and sturdy rock that will keep him grounded in this life when the storms come and prepare him for a life in eternity - that place the Bible speaks of that we all will be reunited someday.  I refuse to spend energy on calculating when that day will be, but spending my time and energy to live in a state of readiness for when that day comes, and help others to realize their need to be ready for eternity.  Jesus in the sermon on the mount clearly tells us that coming through Him (the narrow gate) is the only way which leads to life, present and future (cf. Matt. 7: 13-27).  Jesus also reminds us that those who truly come to Him will bear fruit - “…by there fruits you will know them.”  Fruit that lines up with the scripture, ‘the fruit of the spirit’ as referenced in Gal.5:22-26.  These fruits don’t save us but bear witness that we have truly come to him - “…bear fruit worthy of repentance” - because we indeed are Christ followers!

(cf. Matt. 3:8).  Jesus gives us a stern warning in that same passage of scripture in Matt. 7: 21-27, “not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who doe the will of My Father.”  That in why Paul in Phil. 2: 12 says to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”  When you truly come to Him, Jesus promises that when the rain descends, and the floods come, and the winds blow, and beat on your house - you will not fall because you are founded on the rock (Jesus Christ)!  This analogy really hits home with the recent devastation of the hurricanes.  Is our rock our possessions?  Is our rock our Government?  Is our rock our position in life?  Is our rock our heritage?  Is our rock our family? Is our rock…you fill in the blank.  If it is on anything or anyone other that Jesus Christ - you will fall.  But if Jesus is your ROCK - you will not fall in this life or the one to come!

“Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it” 

(Ps 127).

Pastor Rodney

G. Campbell Morgan well said, “Our joy is in proportion to our trust.  Our trust is in proportion to our knowledge of God.”

A living faith in troubled times becomes even more dependent upon God.

We might not always know the “why?” and “how long?”  We may still have more questions than answers, but a living faith continues to trust in the sovereignty of God and His word.  We continue to walk by faith even if our circumstances don’t change.  I like how Warren Wiersbe puts it, “God doesn’t always change the circumstances, but He can change us to meet the circumstances.  That’s what it means to live by faith.”

The prophet Habakkuk had a godly burden and vision for his nation and God’s people.  He responded by waiting upon God and prayer.  As he prayed “O LORD, revive Your work in the midst of the years!”  he continued to worship the LORD and recognize His sovereignty in all things - “…His glory covered the heavens, and the earth was full of His praise…You divided the earth with rivers.  The mountains saw You and trembled…the sun and moon stood still in their habitation…I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.  The LORD God is my strength…”

• Habakkuk 3

The LORD did bring revival, but His way and His timing.  May we be a people of faith, a people of faith with a godly burden and response to our trouble times.  A people of faith that trusts in the one true God and in our Savior and Lord - the Lord Jesus Christ!  

Corrie Ten Boom well said, “Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength.”

Are you anxious, are you worried?  Then,  “…let your requests be made know to God, and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” - Phil. 4: 6-7

Give your worries and burdens to Jesus.  “Lord, teach us to pray…”

“Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.  Your kingdom come.  Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven…for Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen!” (Matt.5:9-13)

Pastor Rodney

The prophet Isaiah said, “In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the LORD sitting on a throne” (Isaiah 6:1).  Isaiah was not alone is seeing God’s throne - Moses, Daniel, Micaiah and John had glimpses of the throne of God too.  “Holy, holy, holy” were always the descriptive words echoed!  “The whole earth is full of His Glory!” “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created!”  No one can look directly at the Creator of Genesis 1 and simply say it was a nice experience!  No one can see God and continue as if everything was normal.  Seeing the Lord will change your life is such a dramatic way that our old previous life is dead - dead in a good way - dead to sin and alive to righteousness.  

God, our creator has revealed Himself through His creation and His word.  You and I have not physically seen the Lord, but we can see Him through the pages of scripture!  When we see Him as He is, we too will cry out “holy, holy, holy is the Lord!”  We will see our depraved state before a holy God and like Isaiah will come to the conclusion “woe is me, for I am undone!”  Undone is not a bad place to be because God will not do anything with us until He has first of all - undone us.  We all need the healing touch of Jesus in our lives.  Jesus is the cure for the penalty and power of sin.  Come to Jesus and be saved from the penalty of sin.  Come to Jesus and be free from the power of sin.  Let me see Jesus only - only He can satisfy!  Have you seen the Lord?!  Paul reminds us in Romans 1:20, “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.”

He has revealed Himself to you - just open your heart and let Him in - you won’t regret it - and you will be changed!

Jesus promised, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled!” 

Pastor Rodney

I’ve run for as long as I can remember but at one point I lost my love for running and quit for a short period.  The last few years I picked it back up because I felt the need to lose some weight and a desire to get healthier in my ‘aging’ years!  My running on the road had been drudgery.  I set some goals, which I still have, to help me to be consistent and motivate me to get out the door, but I had lost my love for running.  Thankfully I found it again via trail running, mixed with road running.  All this being said, my goals I have set are good goals but I had to get back to why I run in the first place - because I love it!  I had to get back to enjoying the process and journey, the goals are just ‘icing on the cake!’

There are many spiritual applications to our physical life.  I realized salvation is similar.  We come to Jesus Christ for salvation and hopefully we learn to love Jesus and His word, but through the course of time we can become so goal oriented as a church, as believers that we lose our first love that Jesus warned us about in Revelation chapter two.  Jesus has called us into a relationship with Him!  Yes, He desires us to keep heaven in front of us but He intends for us to enjoy the journey - to not lose the joy of our salvation - to not lose our love for Him, His word and His church!

We serve Him in our little sphere of influence because we love Him!

And it is only as we love Him that we can truly be His “ambassadors” that His word declares us to be (ref. 2 Cor.5: 20).  Jesus desires us to love what we are doing, in life and ministry, they coexist!  He desires us to love Him and others.  Mankind’s greatest need is to love and be loved - this starts with knowing, accepting and continuing your faith in Jesus Christ!

“We love Him because He first loved us!” (1 Jn 4: 19)

Pastor Rodney

Happy Father’s Day.  I find myself struggling to pen this weeks pastors desk.  I have a lot of emotions and feeling due to the fact that my father passed last year - this will be my first father’s day without my father.  I have had many more men besides my father (‘dad’) that have been very influential in my walk as a man and a father that have passed on too - to name a few: Earl Marine, Ted Rigdon, Earl Starnes, Ray Byrne (father-in-law), Sam Harrington, Loren Culver.  There are those living too, like my former pastor, Allen Kirk, who has been very influential in my walk as a Christian man.  I am thankful beyond words to my dad and all these men that have impacted my life in a positive way and have influenced my spiritual journey as well.  The role of the man is equally important as the role of the woman in our society.  I believe manhood and womanhood are under attack as never before.  This attack is resulting in societal fallout - the consequences can and have been devastating.  God has a design for men and women - male and female - created in God’s image.  Both have unique form and function in a healthy society - as God designed.  God has given us a blueprint of manhood (and womanhood) through His word and the life of Jesus Christ.  What does biblical manhood look like?  How does the Bible define masculinity?  Jesus emulated that for us - sacrifice, hardship, diligence, discipline, devotion, honor, duty and above all else - a heart that loves God.  None of the men of the Bible where perfect (except Jesus) but they were men of God that finished well!  David, a man after God’s own heart was not perfect, but he ended well and passed on instruction to his son Solomon - “…be strong…and prove yourself a man” (1 Kings 2:2).

What does it mean to “be strong?”  In part, it means to be unwavering in your faith - a man of character and integrity!  It means to stand for the truth - biblical truth!

What does it mean to “prove yourself a man?  In part, it means to obey God’s word in terms of how you live and treat others.  God creates men to be men, and His men honor His word!

A real man is to be God’s man - a “Man of God!”  I am so thankful for my dad and God’s men who where influential in my life.  God help me to be no less than “God’s man” in this present hour.

Happy Father’s Day to all the Father’s out there!  Thank you to all the men of God, past and present that are influencing their generation and the next as those that have gone on before us influenced us - influencing others to follow Christ!

Pastor Rodney

Memorial Day, Memorial weekend.  A time to pause and remember the ultimate sacrifices made for the freedoms we embrace and enjoy.  A time to remember our loved ones, family and friends that are no longer here on earth with us - a painful reminder of our loss and deep love for them.  For those that have suffered loss recently the pain and memory of our loss is way too fresh.  For those whose loss has been long ago the pain has been mitigated but their memory still fresh.  Although painful, it is good to remember, as long as it does not keep us from moving forward.  We honor our loved ones by remembering, but also by moving forward with the life we have been given.  Life is the most precious gift from our creator, but we are all fully aware it is not lived void of pain and loss.  God will help to mitigate your loss and pain if you sincerely look to Him and His Word.  Jesus came preciously to defeat sin and the grave.  There is not only hope, but God’s own promise that those who believe and receive His Son Jesus Christ will inherit eternal life.  Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” (John 11:25-26)   Jesus says to remember His life, remember His blood shed for your sins.  Never forget the price paid at calvary. (cf. 1 Cor. 11: 23-26)  Also, remember He is coming again to stop time as we know it and to usher in eternity for all eternity - He will make all things new!

Yes, remember and honor those that have gone on, but also live and prepare for your eternity.   Jesus return is soon and in the meantime you and I have present responsibilities - “…what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God…” (2 Pet.3: 11-12)

May you have a blessed and hopeful Memorial weekend!

Pastor Rodney

As Mother’s Day approaches, I want to take time to say “Happy Mother’s Day” not only to my Mother but to all Mother’s!  I realize I am so fortunate and blessed to still have my Mother with me.  I think there is a special God given bond we have with our Mother’s, in a healthy relationship.  I know for different reasons not all have a healthy relationship.  But I also know that making the top 10 commandments, coming in at number 5, is “Honor your father and mother!”  God has placed our Mother’s at a place of honor.

Jesus not only honored His earthly mother in living, but also in dying as He echoed from the cross to His disciple John, “Behold your mother!”  The bible says from that hour that disciple took her to his own home.

But what about the woman who will never marry?  Never have children?  Is she considered less of a woman?  Is identifying with women as a life-bearer, the only trait?  In the kingdom of God, the Bible says that “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28)

Jesus said in Matthew “whoever does the will of My father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.” (cf. Matt.12: 50)

We need to understand that biblical womanhood is to include every woman.  While a woman may fulfill the role or calling of wife and mother, that is not her highest calling.  The bible says her highest calling is “fear of the Lord.” (cf. Proverbs 31: 30)  Her true identity is who she is in Christ and she first and foremost fears the Lord.  Ruth understood the great calling of following Yahweh.  She served her mother-in-law with loyalty and served God with faithfulness.  She broke cultural barriers and was commended and honored, not for her role as wife and mother, but for her fear of the Lord.

I want to say thank you to our Mother’s, but also to all women who have loved, mentored and mothered in the fear of the Lord - your true identity!

Join us this Sunday @ 10:30 as we take a look at “women in the life of Jesus’

Pastor Rodney

“Let the LORD establish His Word”

“In the beginning God said…”  God’s spoken word established the created order and spoke mankind into existence - “…the LORD God…breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.”

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us…”   Everything is established and held by God’s word!  God vowed by His Word to never again to destroy the world by water.  God has vowed by His Word that “whosoever shall call upon the Lord shall be saved!”  God said it and that settles it - “thus says the LORD!”  The bible says, “…by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established” (2 Cor.13:1).  

God backs up His Word with His Word and by His word - “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away” 

(Matt.24:35).

Vows are important.  Vow defined as “promise to do a specified thing.”

Wedding vows are made “till death do we part.”  Presidential candidates might make vow “to lower taxes.”  To vow is the act of making.  Some vows are kept, some are broken.  Some vows made are within our control to keep and some are not (God always keeps His vow).  Hannah in the old testament is a great example of a vow made and kept. She made a vow according to 1 Samuel 11 and said, “O LORD of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of Your maidservant and remember me, and not forget Your maidservant, but will give Your maidservant a male child, then I will give him to the LORD all the days of his life.”  In short, everything we have comes from God, your family, your home, your ministry, your job, your income, your talents, your passions, your time - we are just stewards of what He has entrusted to us.  Have you vowed to “Let the LORD establish His Word” in all that He has entrusted to you?!  It’s not easy.  It takes balancing your responsibilities.  It takes some sacrifice and following through but well worth it!  I encourage you by the grace of our Lord to “Let the LORD establish His Word” in your life.  May we pray, “Lord, I set aside all that I am and have for your purposes.  May you establish Your word in Me, fully and wholly”, in Jesus Name, Amen.

(Join us Sunday @ 10:30. Message: “Let the LORD establish His Word”)

Pastor Rodney

How seriously do you take your prayer life?  Do you have a regular and intentional time to pray?  I’m not talking about prayer before a meal or prayer at church, or about a quick bedtime prayer, “Now I lay me down to sleep. I pray the Lord my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I pray to God my soul to take.”  I’m talking about the kind of prayer life that takes you into your “prayer closet” - your alone time with God, uninterrupted.

Jesus needed that kind of time alone.  We read all through the scriptures of Jesus doing this very thing.  Jesus modeled for us what our prayer life should look like.  Jesus would have you and me at a time like this to “watch and pray.”   Jesus instructed us that, “When you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father (heavenly) who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.” (cf. Matthew 6:6)  We are living in desperate times, times that not only need desperate measures, but times for Jesus’ followers to make prayer a regular way of life again.  Ezekiel said that the Lord God “sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found none.” (cf. Ezekiel 22:30)   This question that Jesus asked His disciples so long ago in the gospel of Mark (cf. 14: 37) would be asked of you and me today -

“Could you not watch one hour?  Watch and pray.” - Jesus

But that all being said what is the ultimate purpose of prayer?  Is it to be rewarded?  Is it to find favor with God?  It it to bend God’s will to our will? Is it a tool to fix other people’s problems?  If it is you will be disappointed.  You and I can’t fix other people or their problems, of course most of us have our hands full fixing ourselves, regardless of others.  But we should and can find comfort in prayer because God’s greater purpose is always accomplished by prayer.  God tells us to pray.  Jesus instructed us to pray.  For me I am the most earnest and fervent in prayer when I can’t fix or mitigate the issue at hand.  Those times when I feel desperate and totally dependent upon God.  Those hopeless and helpless times.  You know what I discovered in those times - God changed me - which is the greater purpose of prayer!  Yes God chooses to work in the though our prayers to accomplish His purposes but at the heart of the purpose of prayer - is the change to you and me!

Pastor Rodney

“The end of time”

We prepare and make plans for many things/events in this life.  There are several hundred-thousand visitors expected to make their way to Indiana to experience the total solar eclipse on April 8th, 2024 - preparing for an unforgettable celestial spectacle!  Those who are residents are planning in other ways too, stocking up and fueling up prior to April 8th in preparation for disruptions of provisions and services for several days due to the influx of people.  Some prophecy ‘experts’ are saying this is it - the big day - the end of time.  Some of the same ‘experts’ that predicted the Y2K as the big end time event.  I don’t make any claims of being an ‘expert’ but I have read the book, the B-I-B-L-E!  The bible says, on good authority (Jesus Himself), that ‘of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only!  Have they not read the book -the bible, the book containing not just one or two books, but sixty six books in one.  The book with the majority of the pages written to tell us of our fallen nature and how to be saved.  The book that informs us what it means to be a true follower or disciple of Jesus Christ.  It’s book of love.  It’s a book of salvation and judgement to come for those that do not know Jesus Christ in a personal way.  A book that reminds mankind that he/she needs a heart change!  Yes, there will be a time when God calls time to end as we know it and usher in eternity for all eternity - but that day will be on God’s time table and man is not going to figure it out, not even on accident.  I believe the whole counsel of God’s word is important but most prophesy ‘experts’ never move off of Daniel or Revelation (both important books of the Bible, but not the only books).  I say all that to say this, yes it is wise to plan and prepare for things, but the main thing that we should prepare and plan for is where we are going to spend eternity.  The bible is very clear we are all going to spend it in one of two places - heaven or hell - have you read the book!  The bible says that He is not willing that any should perish but come to repentance.  Oh yes, that day is coming - are you ready?  Your day, my day just might come prior to that ‘big day’ the prophesy experts keep predicting.  The bible says, “…NOW is the accepted time; behold, NOW is the day of salvation!”

Pastor Rodney

The bible says in 1 Corinthians 15 that “…Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures,…” (vv.3-4) - that is the good news of the gospel!  Have you personally reviewed the good news?!

The bibles says “that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, YOU WILL BE SAVED!” (cf. Romans 10: 9).

That was a big moment in your life when you first believed!  We all have big moments in our lives.  Some of those moments may in the form of some crisis or a special accomplishment or goal achieved.  It might come in form of loss or pain, but we all have big moments or defining moments in our lives.  There is no bigger moment than when you first believed though.  Although salvation is free, it came with a cost - the cost of the cross.  Jesus lived His life under the shadow of the cross.  Jesus, the Son of God as the Son of man had a human mind, a human will, human sensations.  He felt as we do.  Tempted in all points as us - yet without sin.

When we think of a shadow we should think in relation to close proximity. A tree’s shade provides relief from the sun only when you’re under it. When we come to Christ we should continue to live under the shadow of the cross.  The shadow of the cross reminds me of my personal surrender to the Lordship of Christ.  The shadow of the cross reminds me of my reconciliation to God.  The shadow of the cross reminds me of my intimate fellowship with Jesus.  The shadow of the cross reminds me of safety - “the Lord is my Shepherd!”  The shadow of the cross reminds me of my spiritual victory!   The shadow of the cross reminds me of the living presence of Christ in me, via the Holy Spirit.  The shadow of the cross reminds me that I have the power to live the resurrected life because I am abiding in Him!

The shadow of the cross reminds me that He is coming back again!  Until then, “Jesus, keep me near the cross!”

“Near the cross! O Lamb of God, bring its scenes before me; help me walk from day to day, with its shadow o’er me. Near the cross I’ll watch and wait, hoping, trusting ever, till I see my Savior’s face, leave His presence never.” - Fanny Crosby (1869)

Happy Easter!  Continue to live in the shadow of the cross!

Pastor Rodney

Humility.  “The feeling or attitude that you have no special importance that makes you better than others; lack of pride.”  Latin word humilis, meaning “low.”   Humility is not a quality in the white house nor demonstrated much in our society but should be a quality for those that profess Christ.  In fact, God commands us to be humble.  “Seek humility”…”put on humility”…”have a humble mind”…”cloth yourselves with humility toward one another”…” - all bible references.  Humility is closely connected to the quality of “poor in spirit” and ‘“meekness” in which Jesus said “blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”…”blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (cf. Matthew 5).

Biblical humility acknowledges and obeys the one who is truly Lord - the Lord Jesus Christ!  The One in whom “…every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (cf. Phil. 2: 11).

The Bible also warns that “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.  Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud” (Prov.16: 18-19).  An arrogant attitude, in contrast to humility, manifests itself as independent from God.

We are well reminded of the prophet Isaiah, “The loftiness of man shall be bowed down, and the haughtiness of men shall be brought low; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day” (2:17).

Jesus exemplified humility - from the cradle to the cross!  “Behold, your king is coming to you…humble and mounted on a donkey” (Zech.9:9).  “And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross” (Phil.2:8). 

“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up”

 (James 4:10).  I have a heaven burden that too many will miss heaven by 18 inches.  Why 18 inches?  That is the approximate distance from your head to your heart!  Due to pride, many will not humble themselves to receive Christ in their heart - “if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in ‘YOUR’ heart that God has raised Him from the dead, YOU WILL BE SAVED!” (Ro. 10:9) - that is the power of the Cross!

Pastor Rodney 

“Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.”  The bible reminds us that “nothing shall separate us from the love of God.”  We need reminded of this fact, the disciples needed reminded of this fact.  As Jesus sat down with them in the upper room for the last Passover, He knew what was coming and He also knew their world was going to be shaken and they would need strength to live - to live in light of eternity!

I’m sure they had flashbacks of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem that palm Sunday - “blessed is the King who comes in the name of the LORD” and just a few days later the crowd shouting “crucify Him, crucify Him!”  I’m sure they had flashbacks of that last Passover meal with Jesus.

Circumstances of life can/do change so quick!  And no, life is not fair and sometimes we have more questions than answers.  I think that is the strength of our faith.  Although our circumstances change - we know God doesn’t!  His sovereignty does not change.  No matter our circumstances and situation, God is still all-knowing, all-powerful, ever-present.  He promises to never leave us nor forsake us, He promises to love us “to the end.”

When the “religious” people told Jesus to rebuke His disciples for shouting their praises, Jesus responded, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out!” (cf. Luke 19: 39-40)

Jesus knows what you are going through and He cares.  He loves us so much more than our love for one another.  He has made all things new, but we are not in heaven yet, and our circumstance remind us of that fact.

But - “O I’ll never cease to praise Him, hallelujah, for He gives me peace abounding every day, He redeemed me from my sins and fully cleansed me, and I find His service sweeter all the way” - “I will praise Him for the strength He daily gives me” - D. Otis Teasley

“You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.”  Rev.4:11

“… It was my cross You bore So I could live in the freedom You died for.  And now my life is Yours.  And I will sing of Your goodness forevermore … Worthy is Your name, Jesus.  You deserve the praise.

Worthy is Your name. Worthy is Your name, Jesus.”

Pastor Rodney

Je-sus!  Je-sus!  Je-sus!  Je-sus!  We preach Christ!  “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” (Ro.1:16)

We preach Christ to the unbeliever so the they might be saved.  We preach Christ to the believer so that they might be moved to love Him and obey Him -  become a fully committed follower of Jesus Christ.  That they might be moved to “know Jesus more clearly, to love Him more dearly, and to follow Him more nearly.”  Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith, the beginning and the end, the alpha and omega.  Jesus is God’s revelation to mankind.  Christ is risen - He is risen indeed!  We celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ not just on Easter but each and everyday!  We preach Christ just not on Easter but on each and everyday!  Leonard Sweet and Frank Viola coauthored a great little book titled ‘Jesus Manifesto, restoring the supremacy and sovereignty of Jesus Christ.’  We must restore Jesus to His rightful place in our life!  We must restore Jesus to His rightful place in the church at large!  Jesus is to reign and rule right now - ‘Lord take first place in my life!”

Is Jesus supreme and sovereign in your life?  Is Jesus supreme and sovereign in the life of the church?  It is only “…in Christ all shall be made alive.” (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:22)  Because of Christ I am made alive - a present reality (born again of the Spirit) and a future reality (new glorified body)!  “By the grace of God I am what I am…”

“Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe, sin had left a crimson stain - He washed it white as snow!”

We preach Christ!

Pastor Rodney

Easter - resurrection day!  But so much was going to transpire on the way to Jerusalem.  This Jesus that is woven into every fabric of the Bible cannot be ignored.  This Jesus of the gospel demands a response from you and me.

    As Jesus made His way to the cross (Via Dolorosa - “the way of suffering”) to redeem mankind through His atonement on the cross, not once did He waver.   Even as the crowd went from “Hosanna, Hosanna” to “crucify Him, crucify Him!”, not once did He waver or lose sight of His mission for mankind.  Though He was falsely accused, beaten, scourged with the “cat of nine tails”, thorns driven into His head, slapped, spit upon, carried His own cross, mocked, laughed at, and lastly crucified on the old rugged cross - never once did His loyalty or affection for mankind waver!  Jesus, the Son of Man, as the Son of God could have called thousands upon thousands upon ten thousand of angels to His side, but that call never came, instead we hear His words echoed from the cross, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” (cf. Luke 23: 34)  You see, Jesus came to save YOU and me, and that meant Jesus had to go to the cross.  But never forget, Jesus willingly did that for YOU, because He loves YOU!  

Jesus’ love was extravagant.  It was absurd, outrageous, extreme and costly! - because He loves, loves, loves, loves YOU!

Today, let’s examine ourselves and our affection for Jesus - He is worthy of the best of our time, talent and resources!  “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain” - “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power.”

The Bibles says, “these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20: 30-31)

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23)

“If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9

How will you respond to Jesus?

Pastor Rodney

For some reason I thought as I got older that life would somehow be easier, less complicated - boy was I wrong!  Please don’t misunderstand me, I am blessed, in fact, if you live in America you are blessed is so many ways.  That being said, life can become wearisome, troublesome, burdensome and anxiety can set in due in part to a variety of things, so many things that are out of our control like: health issues; aging family and friends; loss of loved ones; loss of job; inflation; rapid moral decay of our culture; instability of our Gov’t, Nation and world to just name a few.  Yes, life can be hard, but God is good!  Our circumstances are every changing, but our God is unchanging, stable and true!  Yes, as Paul expressed in second Corinthians, sometimes “we are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair…” - why?  Because of Jesus.  Jesus said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (cf. 2 Cor. 5:8; 12:9)  Our God reminds you and me “I can to all things through Christ who strengthens me!’  Yes, you will get through this burden you are bearing. Yes, you will get through this difficulty you are facing, because “you are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world!” (1 John 4: 4)

That great hymn, ‘Let Me see Jesus only’ by W. Dale Oldham applies, “Storms in fury beat around me, tempests oft my heart assail, but my Pilot’s name is JESUS, He will calm the wildest gale.  Let me see Jesus only, Jesus only, Jesus only, let me see Jesus only, only He can satisfy.”

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generation, forever and ever. Amen.”

(Ephesians 3: 20-21)

The death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ makes all the difference!

Let me see JESUS only!

Pastor Rodney

The bible says, “for the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God!’

I love that old hymn, ‘At the Cross’ by Isaac Watts, “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!”

Ella Hill once said about death, “the old must and the young might.”

Death is coming to all some day, are you prepared?!  Kelvin Kiptum (and his coach) died in a tragic car accident this past week.  He was the world record holder for the marathon (26.2 miles) with a time of 2:00:35 (4:35 per mile pace), which he set at the Chicago Marathon last October - he was only 24 years old - “the young might.”  I am sure Kelvin did not wake up that morning knowing this was his last day on earth.  My heart and prayers goes out to his family and friends.  I don’t know what Kelvin’s faith was but I know that he is in the hands of a just and righteous God who has lavishly poured out His love for all of humankind via the cross.  Life has many tragic stories and burdens.  There is no heavier burden than that of the lose of life.  The good news of the Bible is that Jesus conquered the grave and death at the cross!  Some day God is going to end time as we know it and usher in eternity for all eternity - that is the good news of the gospel. That is why we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, not just on Easter but each and every day!  The thing that terrifies people more than anything is death, but when we receive Jesus Christ as our personal Savior and Lord, death holds no more fear.  We can echo those words of the apostle Paul, “for me to live is Christ and to die is again”, “O death where is your victory? O death where is your sting?”, “but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

You may never win a Super Bowl, you may never set a world record, but you can have the victory, in life and death - only trust Him!

My prayer is that we can all say amen to “I will trust Him - in life and death!

Pastor Rodney

Ah, Valentines Day is fast approaching.  What comes to mind when you think of Valentines Day?  Maybe heart-shaped boxes and candy?  Maybe “be my Valentine” cards?  Maybe, but most likely- love!  A common basic need of mankind is to love and be loved.  Many great movies or plays were written about love - Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare, “O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?”; Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen; The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks; Cleopatra and Mark Anthony - just to name a few.

There are many love stories (non-fiction) in the Bible as well, just to name a few - Adam and Eve; Isaac and Rebecca; Abram and Sarai; Ruth and Boaz; Samson and Delilah; David and Bathsheba; Hosea and Gomer; Song of Solomon, “my beloved is mine, and I am his.”

Actually, the Bible as a whole is God’s love letter to mankind.  You may or may not like love stories, but you are written into the greatest love story ever told, “For God so loved the world (you!) that He gave His only begotten Son (Jesus), that whoever (you!) believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life!” (John 3:16) -  No one loves you like Jesus!

Although the depths of love is difficult to explain, and love is abused, distorted and misrepresented in our society, love is given and received - it is the act of the will, not just feelings.  Feeling and emotions come and go, but true love lasts forever.  God’s love for you lasts forever.  He loves you even at your worst - “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (you!)”  (Romans 5:8)

The older I get (now 62!) and the more loved ones, family and friends pass away, the more I appreciate the love that Jesus has for me, for you, and all of mankind.

God has initiated His love for you and me, but we must respond, He gave us the free will to receive or reject His love.  But, “as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become the children of God, to those who believe in His name.” - John 1:12

“Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me!  I once was lost but now am found, was blind but not I see.” - Amazing Grace, John Newton

Call upon the name of Jesus, call upon Jehovah Tsidkenu - The Lord our Righteousness!

Jesus loves you - Happy Valentines Day!

Pastor Rodney

“By faith the walls of Jericho fell down…” - Hebrews 11:30

Jehovah Nissi - the LORD is my banner, mighty warrior, victory!

Have you heard the saying, “If there is one thing we learn from the scriptures, it’s that we never place a period where God has placed a comma.”  This saying is meant to help us move forward.  The challenge is discerning God’s will in our life.  Life has a way of putting up many walls in our life that seem to be a period, or end of story.  Walls might come in the form of sickness, addiction, divorce, loss, tragedy, age, unmet expectations, unfulfilled dreams or hopes - to name a few.  We become tired and the task to move forward seems impossible or hopeless.  We start wondering if God is sovereign (all-knowing, all-powerful, ever-present) and loving, then why am I encountering this wall?  I certainly don’t have all the answers, but one thing I do know is that the God of Adam and Eve, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Esther, Job, Ruth, Daniel, Lazarus (to name a few) is also the God of you and me!  We can read the rest of their story to encourage us.  In each example they came up against an impossible and hopeless situation.  In each example God turned a wall into a testimony!  “Greater is He who is within you then he who is in the world’; ‘If God is for me, who can be against me”;  “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”; “No weapon formed against me shall prosper!”  This is not positive thinking, this is the truth of our God and His word.

God is faithful to see you forward.  Keep your eyes on the author and finisher of your faith and your walls, like Jericho - will come tumbling down (cf. Joshua 6).  Remember to focus on Him, not the wall!

When you face insurmountable obstacles - trust in God’s deliverance (Jehovah Mephalti - the LORD my deliverer), because God can remove any obstacle no matter how big and give you the victory!

Jehovah Nissi - the LORD is my banner, mighty warrior, victory!

How big is our God?! - bigger than any wall!  

Pastor Rodney

Jehovah Mephalti - The Lord my Deliverer!  One of he great themes of the Bible is that God is our deliverer.  The bible is full of accounts and foreshadows of God’s deliverance - from Genesis to Revelation - past, present and future!  God has promised to deliver all who, by faith, believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and Lord from the penalty and power of sin!  But what about all the other ‘stuff’ of life?!  When we face those times and or circumstances when we feel trapped with our backs against the wall and we don’t see any way out!?  When our minds and hearts are held hostage by fear, worry and anxiety about the present and future!?  What about when we feel captive by grief because of the loss of a loved one and can’t seem to move forward!?  What about when we don’t feel comfortable in our own skin!?  Can we can be delivered from all this ‘stuff’ too?!  YES!  Jesus said, “The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD.” - Luke 4: 18-19

When the ‘stuff’ of life presses in and tries to hold us captive we must trust and give it over to God.  God is the same yesterday, today and forever!  God can and will make a way where there is no way - just trust and believe!  The very one who saves you from sin desires to deliver you from the ‘stuff’ the holds you captive!

“…do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which He will accomplish for you today…the LORD will fight for you and shall hold your peace.” - Exodus  14: 13-14

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give your rest.” - Jesus

“Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you!” - 1 Peter 5:7

Come to Jesus - He will deliver you - He promised!

Pastor Rodney

Hard to believe its going to be 2024!  I can remember like it was yesterday the big Y2K scare in 1999 as we were approaching the year 2000.   All the computers were going to have a melt down - well it didn’t happen, but still 2000 was uncharted territory!   Just the thought of turning my calendar to the year 2000 seemed strange and science fiction!  And now here we are, 24 years latter!  We do need to be knowledgable and act wisely based upon the knowledge we have. 

 But the Bible reminds us in 1 Corinthians chapter 2 that the wisdom of this world is coming to nothing, but the wisdom of God is going to last.  You and I have no idea what is in store for us this New Year.  Some of us are glad 2023 is behind us and hopeful and prayerful that 2024 might be better.   Some of you had a great 2023 and can’t image how 2024 can be any better.  Which either end of the pendulum you swing from or somewhere in the middle, know that creator God has extended His grace and mercy yet another year, and He has a plan and purpose for you this New Year.  His plan is outlined in His word - the Bible.  But the Bible was not written for intellectual knowledge but for life transformation.  Wisdom for the New Year - continue to look to God and His word because when the Word of God and the Spirit of God come together transformation takes place.   Give your personal relationship with Jesus Christ the highest priority this New Year!

Prayer for the New Year - “That you might know Jesus Christ more clearly, love Him more dearly, and follow Him more nearly.”

God is faithful to His promises.  He will give you strength for the present.  He will give you the measure of faith you need for the journey.  And know, that because of Him, YOU can make a difference in 2024!

“Now to Him who is able to keep  you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen.” - Jude 24-25

Happy New Year!

Pastor Rodney

The church of God reformation movement have some great hymn’s and hymn writers, one of those being “What a Mighty God We Serve” by Barney E. Warren 

“Our Father’s wondrous works we see in the earth and sea and sky; He rules o’er all in majesty, from His royal throne on high.  What a mighty God we serve!  What a mighty God we serve!  Reigning now above on His throne of love, what a mighty God we serve!”

At times our God doesn’t “seem” so mighty.  When a friend or family member dies “seemingly” before their time - God doesn’t “seem” so mighty.  When you witness a culture that is morally, ethically and spiritually  spinning out of control, God doesn’t “seem” so mighty.  When one is in financial crisis, when marriages and relationships are broken up, God doesn’t seem so mighty.  When a culture is trying to “redefine” marriage and gender, God doesn’t “seem” so mighty - where is God in all of this!? 

If you are a Christ follower, God is in you via the Holy Spirit - “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world!” (1 John 4:4)  He has given you His word as an anchor to stay the course despite the circumstances that are not necessary favorable in this life.  God’s character is under attack by the “ills” of our culture - Christianity is under attack.  But let God be true and every man a liar!  God’s word never changes!  God’s character never changes. His character was manifested through Christ, God incarnate!  His word (Genesis - Revelation) describes the true and unchanging character of creator God!  Only God creates out of nothing - “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth!”  Only God, through Jesus Christ has the power to save the soul!  Only God has the power to resurrect!  Only God has the power to change the human heart!

“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given…His name will be called…MIGHTY GOD…!”  I hope you can agree with the writer Barney Warren - “what a mighty God we serve!”

Submit to Jesus as your Savor and Lord.  Trust Him in life and death.  Look to Him for strength to live in the present.  Hold on to the promises of His word - He is coming again to make all things new!

Pastor Rodney

Happy Independence Day!

“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder.  And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” - Isaiah 9:6

“Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, there is just something about that name!”   Jesus has many other names, seven of which can be found in Psalm 23.

Jehovah Rohi - The Lord is My Shepherd.

Jehovah Jireh - The Lord will Provide - “I shall not want.”

Jehovah Shalom - The Lord send Peace - “He leads me beside still waters.”

Jehovah Rophi - The Lord that Healeth - “He restores my soul.”

Jehovah Tsidkenu - The Lord our Righteousness - “He leads me in paths of righteousness.”

Jehovah Shammah - The Lord is There - “For you are with me.”

Jehovah Nissi - The Lord my banner - “In the presence of my enemies.”

The Lord is!  Do you know Him?!  It is overwhelming to realize that our creator desires us to know Him in such a personal way that He calls Himself Shepherd.  He invites us to consider us His sheep - His object of affection and attention!

Jesus left the comforts of heaven and came into your world, your “pasture.”  Jesus sweated like you do.  He walked your path.  He braved your wolves.  He faced your temptations and shared your struggles.  The Holy One.  The anointed One.  Jesus Christ came to be your Shepherd!  You have nothing to fear!

Is Jesus your Shepherd?  He is calling - can you hear His voice?!  Come to Jesus and truly live!

“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” - Acts 4:12

“…at the name of Jesus every knee should bow…and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord…”  (cf. Philippians 2: 9-11)

“When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.” - Matthew 17: 8

Who or what are you listening to this Independence Day?  Choose Truth - God’s truth, it will set you free!

Pastor Rodney

Happy Father’s Day!

Although men and women express their love differently, their love and the expression of it is of no less importance to the family structure and to the health of our culture.  The bible reminds us, “and now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13)  There is nothing like “A Father’s Love” -  it is comparable to the allegory stated in the song of solomon, “…as strong as death…a most vehement flame…many waters cannot quench…nor flood drown it.” (cf. 8:6-7)   

This kind of love is expressed in the parable of the prodigal son (cf. Luke 15), where the father showed the son unconditional love.  I am thankful for my Dad’s unconditional love toward me and can only hope and pray that I express and pass this unconditional love on to my children and grandchildren.  Maybe you were not shown this kind of love by your earthly father, well, it can start with you and you can break the cycle!  

Love is priceless and there is nothing like “A Father’s Love!”

Happy Father’s Day to all our Father’s.  And “Thank You” to all the godly men in our lives, present and past, for your influence in our lives and families!

I’ll leave you with this quote by the late Jim Valvano - “My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person: he believed in me.”

Pastor Rodney

I love these lyrics and song by Michael W. Smith - “The wind is moving but I am standing still.  A life of pages waiting to be filled.  A heart that’s hopeful, a head that’s full of dreams, but this becoming is harder than it seems…feels like, I’m looking for a reason, roaming through the night to find my place in this world, my place in this world…I need your light to help me find my place in this world.”

Have you ever wondered about your place in the world? Have you ever wondered why God put you here?

Our enemy, the devil, would have us to question our existence, our purpose or reason for being.  All the answers and questions that we might have are contained within in God’s word, if we would only believe.

The psalmist is Psalm chapter139 reminds us that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (cf. vv.13-16).

The psalmist in Psalm chapter 8 reflects on man’s place when compared to the majesty of God expressed in His creation when he penned, “when I consider Your heavens, the world of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit (give attention to or care for) him?  For You have made him a little lower than the angels, and You have crowned him with glory and honor.” 

God is the creator and sustainer of all things, on earth, in the sea, in heaven and in the heaven of heavens!  And He says I know you by name!  He says I know the very hairs of your head.  He says you are fearfully and wonderfully made!  He says you are the apple of His eye and that He loves, loves you with an everlasting love!  He loves you so much that He left the throne room of heaven and came to earth so that you might know Him and be saved via Jesus Christ!  His greatest desire is that you know Him and that you spend an eternity with Him in heaven someday!

He created you for a purpose! He has chosen you, not just for heaven’s sake, but for earthly sake - to glorify Him in your daily life by living for Him!

“O LORD, our Lord, how excellent is Your name in all the earth!”

Pastor Rodney

“Ok, you hide, then I will count from 1 to 10 and shout, ’ready or not, hear I come’ -then I will come and try to find you!”  I am sure you played “hide and seek” when you were little?!  The goal was obviously not to be found if you were the one hiding.  Kids games are fun.  Regardless of your age, our creator created us to have fun, to be active and creative.  But not all of life is fun and games.  Everything in life worth pursuing takes preparation and discipline.  It seems we prepare and discipline ourselves for everything in life but are prone to leave the most important preparation undone - our “readiness” to meet the Lord!  If you are not saved - you are not ready!  But you can be today, just reach out and call on His name - “Jesus!”

If you have received Him by faith, the Bible says that we should continue to live in a state of “readiness!”  Just as Jesus came the first time, He will come again - for those who passed away, He has come!  Living in a state of readiness means that you know whether you live or die you will be with Jesus!  Living in a state of readiness means you are always thinking - “maybe today!”

When Jesus comes back and ends time as we know it and ushers in eternity for all of mankind it will be a great day for those who believe, but an equally terrible day for those who do not believe.

The bible warns us “the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night” - meaning, He will come when we do not expect Him to!

His return will not be fun and games, and all will be found and accounted for.  The question - when He comes for you - will you be ready or will you be that group Jesus speaks of in Matthew 7: 23, “…I never knew you, depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.” 

The bible says that He is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance!  Jesus’ greatest desire is that you spend your eternity with Him and all those that believe.  The clock is ticking.  

Jesus says, “ready or not, here I come!”

Pastor Rodney

“The Comfort of Christ’s return”

As Christ followers, we need a persevering hope!  A hope that sees beyond the headlines of the news, a hope that endures the trials of life, a hope that looks beyond our own shortcoming - Jesus brought that kind of hope!  It is not based on feelings, emotions or fears but on every word of God as contained within the full cannon of scripture - Genesis through Revelation!  The Holy Spirit and the word of God work together to make our lives and those we influence better.  If I am accused of anything in this life, I pray people can accurately accuse me of those words of the apostle Paul, that “I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20: 27).

Some scripture is hard to understand, some scripture is frightening, some scripture is convicting, some scripture is exciting and should be comforting - which is the case with 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18.

 I cannot think of any harder thing in life to endure than the lose of a loved one, family or friend.  This text is the one of my favorite scriptures and the one I always use at the gravesite of a Christ follow who has passed because it brings hope and comfort for those left behind.  Jesus promised those who believe and trust in Him will be reunited some day for all eternity!

But if you’re reading this, you are not in heaven yet!  If we can trust God with our eternal destiny (“…by the word of the Lord…we will shall always be with Lord” - cf. 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18), then we can certainly trust him with our everyday lives!  

 By this same word He not only sustains us in death, but sustains us in this wonderful thing called life - from the cradle to the grave.  In the valley and on the mountaintops, and praise His name beyond the grave!

Let God’s people say, “God is good - all the time!”

Pastor Rodney

We live in unprecedented times.  We live in a culture that is calling “right” to be “wrong” and calling “wrong” to be “right” or as proverbs would say, “every way of a man is right in his own eyes” (21:2).

These times we live in are uncertain in every aspect of life.  Are we living in the last days?  Is Christ return soon?  No one really knows for sure.  Most of the saints that have gone on before us thought they would see Christ return in their lifetime, only to go to Him instead.  The apostle Paul reminds Christ followers that “whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s” 

(Romans 14: 8) - that is a great promise, but still, even Christ follower’s wonder if this is it?!  Even Jesus’ apostles enquired of Jesus “tell us, when will these things be?  And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” (cf. Matthew 24).  Although Jesus told them many things to look for in Matthew 24, he said “see that you are not troubled; for these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet…all these are the beginning of sorrows.”  If anything, I would say we are in the beginning of sorrows that Jesus spoke of, we just really don’t know how long this will go on.  Jesus goes on to remind us in Matthew 24, “he who endures to the end shall be saved!”  Whether these are the signs of the times of the last days or not, we should always live in expectation of Jesus’ imminent return.

The apostles and early disciples lived that way.  They would great one another with “maranatha”, aramaic word for “O’Lord come” or “our Lord, come!”  May God help us to be living out intentionally the great commission and live in expectation of Jesus’ return -

“Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2: 13).

The very core of the Christian faith is that “…Christ died for our sins…He was buried…He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures… 

(cf. 1 Corinthians 15: 1-11).

The gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ is that He not only died for our sins but that He rose again, is mankind’s only hope - hope for today, tomorrow and beyond the grave.  Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 15:19, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.”  Where is this risen Christ?  Have you seen Him?

I have not seen Abraham Lincoln, but I believe the history books.  

I can’t see gravity, but I feel the effects of it and know it to be true.

I can’t see the wind, but I witness the effects of it.  I can’t see the radio frequency traveling through the airways but I witness the effects.  I can’t see the electricity traveling through the wires but I witness the effects.

Sounds silly?  Well, saying I haven’t seen the risen Christ so I won’t believe is ludicrous.  There is more proof of the risen Christ than anything in history.  One of Jesus’ disciples as recorded in God’s word was a doubter of His physical resurrection - he said, “unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.” (John 20:25).  John did witness the risen Christ.  That scripture continues “Jesus said to him, ‘Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed.  Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’”

If you believe, you are more blessed than the apostles!  We have not seen the risen Christ, but if you have received Him by faith you no doubt have experienced the effects.  Not only that but you have witnessed the effects Jesus has had on others too.  Jesus changes everything - today, tomorrow and praise God beyond the grave!  As I grow older and have witnessed one too many funerals, I appreciate even more the hope that Jesus brings beyond the grave!  Happy Easter!  Choose to believe!

Pastor Rodney

“Rejoice always” - 1 Thessalonians 5:16

Really?!  Always?!  As I pen this pastor’s desk I don’t feel much like rejoicing, praying yes, rejoicing no!  One of my grandchildren, Rosyln Clair (Rozzi) is going through some physical issues as I write (she will be 4 in April).  I don’t want to rejoice, I want God to intervene!  

I can imagine just a little bit how the disciples felt as they helplessly stood by as Jesus was scourged and crucified - rejoice? - seriously!?

I’m sure they had flashbacks of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem that palm Sunday - “blessed is the King who comes in the name of the LORD” and just a few days later the crowd shouting “crucify Him, crucify Him!”  I don’t mean to compare what Rozzi is going through to what Jesus went through at all, but hopefully you get my point, because I’m sure you have felt and thought the same thing at times - “rejoice?!”

Circumstances of life can/do change so quick!  I think that is the point of praise, that although our circumstances change - God doesn’t!  His sovereignty does not change.  No matter our circumstances and situation, God is still all-knowing, all-powerful, ever-present and worthy of our praise at all times.

When the “religious” people told Jesus to rebuke His disciples for shouting their praises, Jesus responded, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out!” (cf. Luke 19: 39-40)

Jesus knows what we are going through and He cares.  He loves us so much, more than our love for one another.  He has made all things new, but we are not in heaven yet, and our circumstance remind us of that fact.

Yes I will pray, I will continually go before the throne of grace for Rozzi and for so many others that are on my heart and mind, but I will not neglect to praise Him with my mouth and life!

“O I’ll never cease to praise Him, hallelujah, for He gives me peace abounding every day, He redeemed me from my sins and fully cleansed me, and I find His service sweeter all the way” - “I will praise Him for the strength He daily gives me” - D. Otis Teasley

“You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.”  Rev.4:11

Pastor Rodney

I love that old hymn,The church’s Jubilee, by Charles Naylor - “The bible is our rule of faith and Christ alone is Lord!”  If we are not sitting under the consistent preaching of God’s word, if we are not sitting consistently under the word for ourselves, we cannot make such claims. 

God’s word is to be our final authority.  God’s word is to be our plumb line (cf Amos 7:7), our standard to live and die by!

Jesus reminds you and me that “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away!”  

It is only by the help of the Holy Spirit and God’s word that we can make since out of life.  God’s word gives us the history of mankind and his/her future with Him if we choose, and our future without Him if we choose.  God has given each one of us the free will, free to choose how we shall live.  Choose to live by the truth “it is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God’” (Jesus) or choose to live by the lie “you will not surely die.” (Devil)  

The enemy is real (devil) and the battle is spiritual, but God is faithful and He is good.  We have the power of God’s word, the authority of Jesus’ name and the help of the Holy Spirit to be overcomer’s! - “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!” - “greater is He who is in you, then he who is in the world!” - “get behind Me, Satan! For is is written, you shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve!” 

“You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” - Jesus 

Jesus said He came to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives!

May God help us as a nation, may God help the church at large, may God help you and me to return to trusting in the authority of scripture - “It is written!”

Pastor Rodney

Life can be stressful at times.  Life sometimes feels likes its beating us down for a variety of reasons.  Our life gets so busy at times that it seems impossible to take care of our “to do” list.  We can get so busy that we become a slave to our “busyness.”  This busyness may not be in of itself bad. It might be work, taking care of your health, taking care of your grandchildren, pursuing your hobby or passion but in the meantime we forget or leave out what Jesus says is the “one thing needed.”  What is that one thing? - our personal relationship with Jesus - it is the one thing that often gets neglected on a regular basis.  Quite often in all of our busyness, we ignore the Lord - the One who called us in the first place.  Called us into a relationship with Him that would not only change our eternal destiny but change how we approach each day.  Do you approach each day by spending time with Jesus via His word and prayer?  Do you go to His word throughout the day to help you navigate the day?  Are you cultivating your relationship with Jesus or find yourself too busy.  If you find yourself too busy then you are leaving out the most important - the one thing needed.  Jesus points this out in Luke chapter 10 verses 38 thru 42 in His account with Martha and Mary.  Both Christ followers, but one had become so exceptionally busy that she forgot what was the most important - her time with Jesus.  We can become so busy that we leave our first love (that initial calling of Jesus into a relationship with Him).  Jesus warned of this in Revelation chapter 2, “I know your works, your labor…have labored for My name’s sake…nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.”  Jesus goes on to say “repent and do the first works.” 

It has been well said “Your life is your story. Write well, edit often.”  Some of us need to edit Jesus back into our daily lives.  Christine Miller wrote, “at any given moment you have the power to say: this is not how the story is going to end!”

I don’t what my story to end without Jesus - how about you?!

Pastor Rodney

The bible says, “as many as received Him (Jesus), to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.”

(John 1:12)

What stands in your way to following Jesus?  The bible speaks of a terrible place called “hell” and of a wonderful place called “heaven.”  We all have a soul that will live forever in one of those two places according to the Bible.

Jesus reminds us that He “did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them” (Luke 9: 56) and in John 3:17, “for God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”  Saved from what? - the judgment to come!  The good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ is that He willingly took the full wrath of God for sin upon the cross!  Eternity is fast approaching for all of us - are you preparing for eternity?  Just the concept or possibility of hell as penned in the bible should scare the H-E-L-L out of you!  Jesus went through hell so that you would not have too.  But make not mistake about it, what you do with Jesus in this life will determine where you spend your eternity.

Don’t take my word for it, read the Bible for yourselves.  Read the only book, the inspired word of God, that will lead to life and life everlasting.

“These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:31)

Hopefully, you can say “yes” I believe and am following Jesus, if that is you, then you and I have been given the ministry to help others believe and receive Jesus for themselves.

Pastor Rodney

“Ash Wednesday” marked the countdown to Easter - resurrection day!  But so much was going to transpire on the way to Jerusalem.  This Jesus that is woven into every fabric of the Bible cannot be ignored.  This Jesus of the gospel demands a response from you and me.

    As Jesus made His way to the cross (Via Dolorosa) to redeem mankind through His atonement on the cross, not once did He waver.   Even as the crowd went from “Hosanna, Hosanna” to “crucify Him, crucify Him!”, not once did He waver or lose sight of His mission for mankind.  Though He was falsely accused, beaten, scourged with the “cat of nine tails”, thorns driven into His head, slapped, spit upon, carried His own cross, mocked, laughed at, and lastly crucified on the old rugged cross - never once did His loyalty or affection for mankind waver!  Jesus, the Son of Man, as the Son of God could have called thousands upon thousands upon ten thousand of angels to His side, but that call never came, instead we hear His words echoed from the cross, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” (cf. Luke 23: 34)  You see, Jesus came to save YOU and me, and that meant Jesus had to go to the cross.  But never forget, Jesus willingly did that for YOU, because He loves YOU!  

Jesus’ love was extravagant.  It was absurd, outrageous, extreme and costly! - because He loves, loves, loves, loves YOU!

Today, let’s examine ourselves and our affection for Jesus - He is worthy of the best of our time, talent and resources!  “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain” - “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power.”

The Bibles says, “these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.”

(cf. John 20: 30-31)

How will you respond to Jesus?

Pastor Rodney

Vision for 2023.  Equipping for ministry and the Great Commission.

As I pen this weeks pastor’s desk I received the news that my mother-in-law, Sharon Byrne, is not doing well, and unless the God who created her heals her, she may not have many days here on earth.  I am hesitant to even pen this and post this because I don’t want to come across wrong.  It’s almost like in light of the situation my theme for this week needs to change.  My heart breaks for Becky and all the family - they are suffering and grieving.  Suffering, pain and loss is unfortunately part of the human life.  It is well said, “Grief never ends…but it changes.  It’s a passage, not a place to stay.  Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith…it is the price of love.”

No one new this more than Jesus, the one who suffered, bleed and died for you, me and all of humankind - all because of love.  His death was not the end of the story though, only the end of His suffering.  He rose again, conquering death once and for all and He is coming again.  He promised to all those who believe in Him that to be absent from he body is to be present with Him!  The great commission Jesus gave us is worth it - worth it all!  God is worthy of our worship - worship in the midst of our suffering.  People need to know Jesus in a personal way, and it’s our responsibility to help them see their need for Jesus in this life and the one to come.  It is worth it to follow Jesus and equip ourselves to go out into the world, our sphere of influence, and live out the love for Jesus in our everyday lives.

As hard as it is, the gospel of Jesus Christ prepares us for times like this.  The gospel gets us through times of suffering and grief because we know this is not our home - we are heaven bound!  Let us continue to be about the great commission until we go on to be with Jesus - “I’ll meet you in the morning!” 

Pastor Rodney

Solomon, the wisest and richest man to ever live penned these words in Ecclesiastes 11, “Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days.”  What in the world does this even mean?!  

Some commentators (Trapp, Clarke, and others) think this speaks of generosity. Cast your bread upon the waters is to them a way of saying, “Give your material things to the needy in a way that might seem wasteful – as wasteful as throwing bread upon the waters, and you will be rewarded.” If this is the sense, the point is much the same: do something now for a reward that cannot be immediately seen.

In todays world this might be a 401k, the stock market, long term investments, etc.,..but this kind of giving is for self, not saying you shouldn’t plan for your future but the goal is not to trust in uncertain riches but to trust in God, the giver and sustainer of all of life.

Part of that trust is being generous to others with out time, talent and resources.

Jesus encourages the freedom of giving without the fear that we might become the losers in our giving.  Jesus reminds us in Luke chapter 6, “Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over.” (v.38)  Simply said, “you can’t out-give God”  -  that is His promise.

Within this context of Luke 6, it might mean extending forgiveness.  It might be showing mercy.  It might mean loving your enemies.  It might mean quit being so judgmental.  You see, Jesus knows that when we are free to give it frees us in an unexplainable way.  The apostle Paul expressed this sentiment in Acts, “I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the week.  And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (20:35)  How are you doing in your giving?  Giving of your time, talent, resources?  How are you in giving forgiveness, mercy and love to the unloveable?  How are you doing in sharing God’s truth in the spirit of love?

Jesus said “give” and “it will be given to you!”

Pastor Rodney

Vision for 2023.  Discipleship and the Great Commission.

Isaiah said, “Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old.  Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it?  I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” (43: 18-19)   What new thing is Jesus desiring to do in you?  It might be a deeper commitment and devotion to Him.  It might be going back to school.  It might be a new career.  It might be gaining victory over an addiction.  It might be forgiving the unforgivable.  It might be restoring some relationships.  It might be gaining control over your finances or physical condition. It might be experiencing peace within your soul.  It might be getting off the sidelines and being an active participant in the life and ministry of His church body.  I do not know what “specific” new thing Jesus is desiring to do in your life, but I do know He is desiring to do something new in your life, because that is the Character of our God.  He is always present.  He is  always active and creating something new (“Behold, I make all things new” - cf. Revelation 21).  I also know Jesus is desiring to do something new in and through you and me, because that is the call of salvation - to be His disciple.  As His disciple (mathetes, learner, follower) we are set out on this lifelong experience to be shaped into His likeness - a journey marked by progress.  A journey marked by daily submitting our will to His will!  A journey of helping others in their journey with Christ!  Life and ministry is not to be looked upon as two distinct identities, but one in the same.  Discipleship is not to be looked upon as just one more thing I need to be and do, but as a nature way of life as I grow in my walk “that the world my know Him” - “for this purpose I have raised you up, that I may show My power in you, and that My name may be declared in all the earth.”

What “New Thing” is Jesus desiring to do in you? - Commit it to Him!

Pastor Rodney

Vision for 2023.  “Reaching the lost & the Great Commission” - is a call to personal evangelism!

 The great commission is still the mission of His church.  Individually and corporately as the body of Christ we need a burden for those that do not know Jesus as their personal Savior and Lord.

Jesus’ passion should be our passion - lost people.  Jesus said of Himself “for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Lk 19: 10)  Jesus promises to save those who come to Him.  Saved from what? - from the judgement to come.  Love tells the truth!  The Bible says, “But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgement and perdition of ungodly men.” (2 Peter 3: 7)  That text goes on to remind us, “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise.”   Yes, judgement for sin is coming - that is the truth!  But today is the day of grace, that same text goes on further to say, “but (the Lord) is longsuffering toward us (the world - the unsaved), not willing that any should perish but that ALL should come to repentance.” (cf. 2 Peter 3: 9)  God’s greatest desire is that you spend an eternity in heaven with Him and all the redeemed!  He has provided the way - the only way!

Jesus said, “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3: 18)

We can become so distracted by the things of life that we lose sight of the “big picture” - our mission and purpose.  People “desperately” need the Lord - for this life and the one to come!

Pastor Rodney

Vision for 2023.  Worship and the Great Commission.

I believe we would all agree that life can be challenging and difficult at times. You might even say, “Life is not fair!” - and you would be right.  No one knew that more than Job.  Job suddenly and tragically lost his sons and daughters in death.  He lost his possessions and his health. He lost everything!  What was his response?  He fell down and worshiped the Lord and blessed His Name!  Yes, Job had more questions than answers.  Yes, Job suffered a time of depression, but Job never lost sight of God’s sovereignty.  Job never lost sight that God was worthy to be worshiped at all times and in all circumstances, “Blessed be the Name of the Lord.”  We read the rest of Job’s story and see that his latter days were blessed “more than his beginning.”  But Job didn’t know how his story would end.  He only knew that His Lord was worthy of worship.  Your story is still being written.  What will they say?  Will they say you worshiped the Lord only during the good times?  Or will they say you worshiped Him at all times!  Like Job you can trust in the sovereignty of God even when life is not fair.  Like Job you can chose to bless His Name -

“Blessed be the Name of the Lord” and say with confidence, “I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.”(42: 2)

At the heart of true worship is the gospel.  That’s why - “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation, for everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16)  This gospel brings about not only worship directed toward God, but a change of life style (godly living).  This gospel brings about a lifestyle of praise and thanksgiving.  We were created to worship our creator!

“You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for you created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.” (Rev. 4:11)

“Great and marvelous are Your works, Lord God Almighty!…for You alone are holy.  For all nations shall come and worship before You.”  (Rev. 15)

“Oh come, let us sing to the LORD!  Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation.” - Psalm 95

Pastor Rodney

Any New Year’s Resolutions for the coming New Year?!  I have a few.  At the top of my list is “to know Jesus more clearly, to love Him more dearly, and to follow Him more nearly.”  I also want to lose 20 pounds and get “race” fit!  This brings up the question “are New Year’s resolutions even biblical?”  Well, although not directly, I would say they are indirectly.  Here are a few scriptures that encourage me to take an inventory/examination at the beginning of each year:

…write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.” - Habakkuk 2:2 kjv   

“Where there is no vision, the people perish…” - Prov.19:18

“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold for me.” - Phil.3:12 

“…let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross…” - Heb. 12:1-2  Jesus’ life and ministry exemplified vision and purpose.  He had YOU on His mind (vision) when He endured the cross (purpose)!

We all need vision (goals) and purpose in our lives. 

Vision - “the faculty or state of being able to see.”

Purpose - “the reason for which something is done.”

Ryan Hall, an Olympic runner, holds the American record for the half marathon and has run the fastest marathon time ever run by an American in a time of  

2: 04:58 - impressive!   He had to have vision and purpose to accomplish his goals. Vision creates purpose!   Ryan speaks of “finding God in every step,”   not only on the mountain tops but in the valleys too - where the rubber meets the road!  With vision comes discipline, the implementation that drives the purpose!

You and I may not be Olympic athletes, but God calls (vision) all of us into a deeper relationship (purpose) with Him.  With that vision in mind we can move forward with purpose.  A purpose that guides our decisions and influences our behavior - one that looks at the big picture! “The bible in its totality ascribes only one intention of God; to save mankind.  Every task of the church makes sense and has a purpose only as it leads to the mission.” - George F. Vicedom

Happy coming New Year (Lord willing)!

Pastor Rodney

Advent of Love.

Basic human need is to love and be loved.

God loves YOU!  That is the message of the Christmas season.  Have you experienced God’s love?  Have you received the most important Christmas present ever, the one that will last into eternity?!

God’s greatest gift to mankind is expressed in John 3:16, 

“For God so loved the world (YOU) that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever (YOU) believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” 

Receive that all important gift today (today is the day of salvation) if you haven’t, don’t wait until Christmas.  God’s greatest desire is to spend an eternity in heaven with YOU, and He has provided the way, but you must recognize that you are a sinner before a Holy God in need of forgiveness (“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” - Romans 3:23).   Forgiveness only comes via the cross through Jesus Christ.  Jesus was born to die for you and me.  The bible says, “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” 

God loves you with an everlasting love.  The bible says that NOTHING can separate you from the love of God - but you must come to Him in faith.

“He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (cf. John 3:18)

“For whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved!” (Romans 10:13)

The “Christ”mas message - “God Loves YOU!”

Pastor Rodney

Advent of Joy

“Joy to the world! The Lord is come: Let earth receive her king…”

“It is joy unspeakable and full of glory, full of glory…”

“Joyful, joyful, we adore thee, God of glory, Lord of love…” - these are just a few hymns of expression of joy.  The words “joy,” “rejoice,” or “joyful” appear in the Bible 430 times (English version), compared with “happy” or “happiness,” which appears only ten times.  So one would conclude, that one, God desires for us to experience joy, and secondly, joy and happiness are not one and the same.

Happiness is dependent on external things, Joy is internal.  Happiness is circumstance based, Joy is Christ based.  Happiness is by chance, Joy is a choice - “today is the day that the Lord hath made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!”

Christmas season is easier to be joyful, and should be a joyful time, but, what about the daily routine of life?

 Life in general has a way of “robing” us of our Joy.  Even the everyday routines and responsibilities of life can “squeeze” the Joy from our souls.  But does this have to be the case?  Can we live our lives without losing our “Joy?”  The Bible says, “yes.”   I believe the key is found in Psalm 16: 11, “…in your PRESENCE there is FULLNESS of JOY…”   As a Christ follower Jesus has promised He would never leave us nor forsake us.  He has promised His Holy Spirit to dwell in us and among us.  He has promised us eternal life!  He said that we are joint heirs with Christ, and that at His “right hand are pleasures forevermore!”   By staying in Jesus’ PRESENCE we can “count it all JOY!”  when the path of life takes us down the road of trials of various kinds. (cf. James 1:2)  Yes, with God’s help, we can live a life overflowing with JOY because of the PRESENCE of Christ in our lives! “You make known to me the path of life; in your PRESENCE there is FULLNESS of JOY; at our right hand are PLEASURES FOREVERMORE!”  - Psalm 16: 11 (ESV)

Jesus said in John 15:11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full!”

God is not the big joy killer, He is the author and sustainer of true joy!  Come to Jesus and let Him fill you with His joy!

Pastor Rodney

Advent of Peace.  Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you.”  Isaiah foretold of Jesus’ birth 700 years prior, “Unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given…His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” - Isaiah 9: 6

Jesus is the author and sustainer of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love.

The LORD who made the universe and everyone in it is a personal God, that is why He came in the flesh, God incarnate - Jesus!

Advent is a time to celebrate and a time to prepare.  As Christ followers we celebrate the first coming of Christ and we prepare for His coming again!  Yes, Jesus came and is coming again!  How do I know? - His written word declares it!

But in the meantime, I am trusting Him as “my” shepherd! (cf. Psalm 23)

The LORD is “my” shepherd therefore I’m learning to be content.  As “my” shepherd He “leads me to green pastures and beside still waters” so that my soul will be restored.  As “my” shepherd He leads me to a right way to live (righteousness), if I will only listen to His voice and follow Him - if He is truly “my” shepherd, I will!  As “my” shepherd, though I may “walk beside the valley of the shadow of death” I have nothing to fear because He is with me from the cradle to the grave and all in between.  Though I have enemies and an enemy of my soul, as “my” shepherd He has given me His Holy Spirit so that I might experience joy to overflowing and experience true peace, peace that surpasses all understanding.  As “my” shepherd I can recognize His goodness and mercy to me as I journey through this life with all its valleys and mountains.  And when this life ends as I know it, because He is “my” shepherd in this life, I have the promise of eternal life and a place in His eternal home - because He promises as “my” shepherd. 

Now, may “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.” - Numbers 6: 24-26

Pastor Rodney

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for…” - Hebrews 11:1

It has well been said that “Man can live forty days without food, about three days without water, about eight minute without air…but only for one second without hope!”

No matter what your age is, you are always hoping in something.  As children, specifically during this time, you’re hoping that Santa is going to bring you something on your Christmas list, even if you don’t believe in Santa any longer!  As a teenager you may be hoping for that set of wheels, not bicycle - car!  As adults our hope really changes. We start thinking in terms of hoping to pay the bills, get out of bed or find “Mr” or “Mrs” right!  Regardless of what you’re hoping for, hope, is a common denominator - we all need hope.  

Hope that will get us through the day and into tomorrow.  Governments will fail you, family and friends will eventually fail you, things will fail you, yes, even the church will fail you - so don’t place your hope in these.

Where do we place our hope then?  In Christ and Christ alone!  I say this as a Christ follower, not just as a pastor.  Only Jesus will give you hope for today, tomorrow and beyond the grave.  We are all in this “waiting room of life” and we need hope. Hope that sustains us in the waiting - waiting for direction, that answer to prayer.  Hope that helps us to go the distance - that never gives up - that finishes well!  Jesus is the only hope that will never disappoint!  If you place your hope in things and people you will be disappointed - place your hope in Jesus, He will never disappoint!  We not only need to hang onto this hope for ourselves but we need to share this hope with a lost world - our sphere of influence!  Yes Jesus will be with you in the “waiting room” of life!  Yes Jesus will help you to go the distance (the author and finisher of our faith).  No, Jesus will not disappoint. In this life nor the one to come!

You have a “living hope” if you know Christ!  A hope that does not burn out or die! 

“Receiving the end of your faith - the salvation of your souls.” - 1 Peter 1:9

“These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.” - 1 John 5:13

Pastor Rodney

“There comes a point where you no longer care if there’s a light at the end of the tunnel or not.  You’re just sick of the tunnel.” - Ranata Suzuki

We have to come to that place where we “are sick of the tunnel” to get better!  We have to come to that place where we are sick of our insecurities, addictions, worrying and depression to find freedom from those things that hold us captive!

The writer of Hebrews encourages us to “lay aside every weight…and run with endurance the race that is set before us.”

Sometimes that is easier said than done.  It has been suggested that most of our days are of three kinds.  On the mountaintop days where everything is going well and our world looks bright.  The valleys when life seems hopeless. Then there are those ordinary days, which is where we spend most of our time.  Daniel Tiger said “It’s a good day to have a great day!”

For those of us fighting depression it’s challenging to have a good day, led alone a great day. In the United States alone, an estimated seventeen million people suffer from clinical depression.  Some of history’s greatest military leaders, statesmen, musicians, scientists, and theologians have suffered from depression, including Winston Churchill, Edgar Allen Poe, Napoleon, Vincent van Gogh, Charles Spurgeon…just to name a few.

Depression strikes Christian and non-Christian alike. In the Bible it appears that Job, Moses, Jonah, Peter, Paul, Jeremiah, Elijah, Sarah, Hagar, Naomi…just to name a few, experienced depression.  King David expresses depression when he writes “why am I so discouraged? Why so sad? Telling a person “you shouldn’t feel depressed” does nothing to relieve the depression and often adds guilt instead of help. So where does our help come, is it possible and can we be free from depression? This is too big of a topic of discussion for this pastor’s desk, but yes, there is help and freedom from depression. Jesus sympathizes with your depression, He understands, Jesus Himself experienced depression. You are not alone, come to Christ and He will guide you through your valley of depression. “I will put my hope in God! I will praise Him again - My Savior and My God!

“He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives.” - Jesus

“O soul, are you weary and troubled?  No light in the darkness you see? There’s light for a look at the Savior, and life more abundant and free!  Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.”

“Thank You” to all our Veterans!  Thank you for keeping us safe and free. We realize our freedoms come at a great cost.  We also realize we need a strong military because we have enemies that want to do us harm, not only us but also other countries of the world.  I think we would all agree we wish it wasn’t so, we wish there was peace for all of mankind, a world without war or threats of war.  But we are in a broken world, Jesus Himself said “and you will hear of wars and rumors of wars.  See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” (cf. Matthew 24)  So although we can only mitigate war and not be totally free from it we can be free from fear and worrying.  Just as we have enemies in the physical realm, make no mistake about it, you and I have an enemy in the spiritual realm and he wants to hold you captive to your insecurities.  He wants to hold you captive through your bad habits by those things becoming addictions.  He wants to hold you captive via fear and worrying. But there is one greater and His name is Jesus.  Jesus can will give us freedom from those things that hold us captive, He will give us freedom from worrying!  Jesus said of Himself “…He (LORD God) sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of the sight to the blind, to set liberty those who are oppressed…” 

(cf. Luke 4: 18-19)  Jesus posed the question in Matthew 6: 27 “which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?”  Oh yes, life gives us much to worry about: our country; world; families; finances; health; relationships; jobs…but Jesus wants to free us from worrying.  Jesus said “therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matthew 6:34)

No, Jesus doesn’t expect us to hide our heads in the sand, He expects us to do our part but at the end of day give all your cares and worries to him and He promises to give you “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

(cf. Philippians 4: 6-7)

Pastor Rodney

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you…” (Jeremiah 1:5)

Listen, God is on you side. Not only does God desire for you to make heaven your home but He desires that you live a fulfilling earthly life - “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)

So many times we “shoot ourselves in the foot”, things that keep us from fulfilling our purpose, things that hinder our “race of faith” things the enemy tries to use to sabotage us from finishing well.  The enemy uses our insecurities as we looked at last week, the enemy also uses bad habits that form into “addictions.”  We not only need freedom from insecurities but we also need freedom from “addictions.”

Billy Graham writes, “In Christ alone there is deliverance from a man’s tortured thoughts and freedom from the sordid habits which are destroying so many people.  Anything that is against a person’s welfare, God is against.”

The bible warns “do not be deceived: evil company corrupts good habits.”

(1 Cor. 15: 33).  With any addiction or bad habit, admitting that there is a problem is the first step on the road to recovery.

Proverbs 14:12 is a perfect description of addiction - “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.”  We immediately think of alcohol and drugs when we hear the term addiction but people can become addicted to almost anything: food, gambling, shopping, work, cigarettes, pornography, the internet, video games, smart phones, texting, pain meds and the list goes on and on.

One person described her addiction this way: “It was the best thing until it became the worst thing.” That could almost be a mantra for any addiction. Whether it’s alcohol or something else, it’s always the best thing until it becomes the worst thing. There is a way that seems right to you – it’s the best thing, the very best thing, the only thing, nothing matters to me more than this – but in the end it leads to death.

You and I were meant to worship God and God alone, addiction is that something else that takes His rightful place in your life.  The word addiction is from the Latin word addictus, which means “to surrender to the gods.” And so your habit becomes your worship - unchecked it will ultimately destroy you.  You can choose to instead “…bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ!” (cf. 2 Corinthians 10: 3-6)

Pastor Rodney

“Do you struggle with feelings of inadequacy? Thinking you’re not enough for your spouse, children, church, friends—not enough for God? Do you feel too weak or ill-qualified? I’ve experienced those feelings. I often ask myself, “Who am I to write for God?” I’m aware of my weaknesses and unworthiness. I’m not better than others and sometimes feel less than. When someone responds to an article saying it helped or encouraged them, I know it’s because of God’s grace. Mother Teresa once said, “I’m a little pencil in the hand of a writing God, who is sending a love letter to the world.” That’s how I feel. I know I fall short as a writer, wife, or mother, and this pains me.” - Susan Aken

Insecurity is an emotion that nearly everyone of us suffers from at sometime or another.  Improper feelings that tells us we don’t measure up, not good enough, smart enough, educated enough, talented enough, not tall enough, not thin enough, not lovable, not enough Facebook friends, not enough “likes” to our postings and the list goes on and on…

Maybe we feel insecure due to our past, maybe someone said something or hurt us years ago and we recall those things and feel paralyzed by insecurity.

If fact, I’m having feeling of insecurity as I write this!

We can all take comfort in knowing that we are not alone in our feelings of insecurity. Many characters in the Bible felt this way. The prophet Jeremiah in his response to the LORD calling “Ah, LORD GOD! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.”  Jeremiah was actually correct in his assessment of himself, but God could and would!  Our security must come from God and His word!  How He views us, what He says about us. We must quit listening to the voices in our world and in our heads and listen to God!

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you!” - cf. Jeremiah 1 

Pastor Rodney

I have a “bucket list” for life and ministry.  A bucket list is defined as “a number of experiences or achievements that a person hopes to have or accomplish during their lifetime.”  I am very careful who I share my bucket list with and some of those things I don’t share at all, regardless if shared or silent, they are personal and meaningful to me.  One that I have shared is my goal to run the Boston Marathon again in my 60”s (ran in 1988).  I signed up last year for this years  Indianapolis Monumental Marathon, November 5th, in hopes to run a qualifying race for my age group to enter Boston.  But instead of qualifying I will receive a DNS (did not start). Why? - I didn’t complete the training necessary to accomplish my goal.  Why did I not complete the training? - too many things got in the way, some within my control, some outside of my control.  But I’m not giving up, still on my list.  My life’s motto has been “it’s not how you start but how you finish.”  That being said, if you don’t start, you can’t finish!  You have to be in the race to finish well!  There is a spiritual application here that is much more important than any bucket list and it has eternal consequences.  In light of eternity whether I run Boston again or not really doesn’t matter, what really matters is my “race of faith” as the writer of Hebrews points to. The bible says “let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” (Heb. 12)

The most important race of all to start and finish is the race of faith.  We all only have one life to live, yes set goals and have bucket lists but do not leave out the most important aspect of all - your faith.  Not any faith but faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ - the one and only Savior of humankind!  The bible says “for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross.” (cf. Heb.12:2)  You and I was the “joy” set before Him!  Jesus started and finished well because He had YOU on His mind!  Jesus wants you to start this race of faith by trusting and receiving Him.  He wants you to finish well by “looking unto ‘Him’, the author and finisher of ‘your’ faith!”

Pastor Rodney

George Muller once said, “Faith does not operate in the realm of the possible. There is no glory for God in that which is humanly possible. Faith begins where man’s power ends.”

Don Moen, stated: “God will make a way where there seems to be no way, He works in ways we cannot see.”

Jesus said, “…with men this is impossible, but with God ALL things are POSSIBLE!” (cf. Matthew 19: 26)

“Dare to believe God for the impossible!”

Knowing that “if this plan or work is of men it will come to nothing, but if it is of God, you cannot otherthrow it - lest you even be found to fight against God.” (Acts 5: 38-39)

I’m not talking about those things that are humanly possible.

But I’m talking about those impossible things in our lives.  Those roadblocks, mountains, and/or giants in our lives that we just cannot humanly overcome or breakthrough.  Those things or places in our lives where we have come to a dead end with no exit, our Red Sea!

Those areas in our lives where we have done all that we can do, time and time again and failed or seen no fruit - those impossible things!

I dare to believe God for the impossible.  How about you?!

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever.  Amen (Jude 24-25)

Pastor Rodney

It has been said that, “If it wasn’t for people and things, life would be easy.”  Well, no doubt people (including myself) can be challenging sometimes, and things can get in the way.   But life is really all about people and relationships.  “God intended for us to love people and use things, not love things and use people.”  People are eternal, not things.   People were always the focus and the passion of Christ.  Jesus loved people unconditionally.  His greatest desire is that all people would be part of His family - the family of God.   No one loves you like Jesus.  With Jesus there are no strings attached.  He doesn’t look at color, race, social status, material wealth, vocation, education or popularity.  Jesus doesn’t look at your failures or success.  Jesus doesn’t look at you with the attitude, “what can you do for me?”  Jesus simply looks at YOU.  The you that only you know, and He loves you anyway and wants you to be a part of His family.  His eternal, everlasting family - the family of God.   All of us have the need to belong and to be loved.  There is nothing compared to belonging to Christ and His family.  There is no greater love than the love of Christ.  “I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God - I’ve been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood!  Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod, For I’m part of the family, the family of God.   From the door of an orphanage to the house of the King - No longer an outcast, a new song I sing; from rages unto riches, from the weak to the strong; I’m not worthy to be here, but praise God I belong!” - Gloria and William Gaither

We are family, each member being equally valued and important - recipients of God’s blessings - Salvation, Holiness, Unity!

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

We are in this together!  What you and I have as brothers and sisters in Christ is precious - it is eternal - “life forevermore!”

So, “lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the LORD.  The LORD who made heaven and earth bless you from Zion!” (cf. Psalm 133, 134)

Pastor Rodney

I don’t have all the answers, in fact, the older I get the more I realize what I don’t know.  One thing I know for certain though is that the LORD God, the creator and sustainer of life desires to dwell with mankind in the present and forever in His eternal kingdom someday.  Does that mean we won’t have afflictions in the life, no, but He promises to never leave us nor forsake us in this life.  In the old covenant God was present with His people via the ark of the covenant - “and there I will meet with you, and I will speak with you from above the mercy seat…” (Exodus 25:22)

As the people journeyed God’s presence would go with them and guide them and protect them via cloud by day, and fire by night.  The people would set-up a temporary tabernacle to house the ark as they settled and   tabernacled (“to dwell”) with God.  King David wanted to build a permanent temple in which to house the ark of the covenant and worship God, which his son Solomon would go on to do in Jerusalem. 

But God had something better in mind - “God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples make with hands…” (Acts 17: 24)

God does not live in a box nor does He want you to put Him there.  God sent His son Jesus Christ to usher in the new covenant. Now through a relationship with His son, through the new birth, you are the temple of God - “…do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you…” (1 Corinthians 6: 19)   Where does God dwell? - Christ now lives in you!  You are God’s permanent dwelling place!  He is with you wherever you go.  You are in covenant with God through His son Jesus Christ via the Holy Spirit.  God loves you and desires to journey with you in life. But like any relationship it takes two.  All too often we are guilty of neglecting our relationship with the Lord.  My prayer for you and me is that we will have the attitude of the psalmist, as he penned in chapter 132 verse 4 and 5, “I will not give sleep to my eyes or slumber to my eyelids, until I find a place for the LORD, a dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob!”

May too the lyrics by Barney Warren hold true for you and I - “I yield to thee Savior forsaking my all, from sinful things now I will part, to thee I surrender for mercy I call, Come take the first place in my heart.”

Pastor Rodney

God’s greatest desire is that you and I spend an eternity with Him and one another someday in a place called heaven and He provided the only way - through His Son, Jesus Christ.  But God did not save us only for heavens sake, but for earthly sake, and He actually desires for you and I to enjoy or embrace the journey here on earth.  I believe mankind’s greatest need is grace, but I also believe mankind’s greatest challenge is contentment.

Without contentment it is hard to enjoy the journey. A few well said quotes:

“Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.”

"You say, 'If I had a little more, I should be very satisfied.' You make a mistake. If you are not content with what you have, you would not be satisfied if it were doubled." -Spurgeon

The bible says that “having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.” (1 Timothy 6: 8)   Paul said “not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” (Philippians 4:11)

The bible reminds us “be anxious for nothing…let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4: 6-7)

"Contentment, then, is the product of a heart resting in God. It is the soul’s enjoyment of that peace that passes all understanding. It is the outcome of my will being brought into subjection to the Divine will. It is the blessed assurance that God does all things well, and is, even now, making all things work together for my ultimate good."  It is not about being the smartest, richest, prettiest, fastest, strongest…etc.,…because there is always someone smarter, richer, prettier, faster, stronger!  Yes set goals but embrace the process, enjoy the journey.  This is humanly possible only if you chose to journey with God - “now godliness and contentment is great gain.” (1 Tim.6:6)  God desires that like the psalmist of psalm 131 you can proclaim “surely I have calmed and quieted my soul.” - that is true contentment!

Pastor Rodney

What comes to mind when you think of fear?

Fear plays an important function in our lives.  Fear is actually a healthy, normal and necessary emotional response.  A healthy amount of fear keeps us safe and away from danger.  One should have a healthy fear of fire for instance.  One should have a healthy fear of swimming in open water with great white sharks, I think you get my point.  But we can have unhealthy fears too, fears that create an intense irrational fear, these are called phobias.  Phobias span the alphabet, from Ablutophobia (fear of bathing) to Zuigerphobia (fear of vacuum cleaners).  There is the fear of flying, the fear of heights, the fear of crowded spaces, the fear of public speaking, you name it, someone has a fear of it.

The slogan “No Fear” was created by and for extreme sports enthusiasts, such as base jumping, mountain climbing, motocross, etc.,,, - “any sport which involves a high degree of risk in which the participant accepts the possibility of severe injury or death as an inherent part of the activity.”

The slogan was used to motivate the participant to accept “no limits” - to push past their fear.  The bible actually has a lot to say about fear.  Proverbs says that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (1:7)  Solomon, the wisest, richest, most influential king in Israel’s history said “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter (life): ‘Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all.  For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)   I think we have lost a healthy fear of God, in our Nation and the church at large.  What is the fear of the Lord?  It is a healthy respect and reverence for God stemming from the knowledge of God and resulting in obedience to God - it is an attitude (respect and reverence) that results in an action (obedience).

With obedience comes God’s blessings.  Psalm 128 says “Blessed is every one who fears the LORD, who walks in His ways.”  No fear?  Yes, the bible says “For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7)  This “no fear” stems from a healthy, biblical fear of God - which is life’s greatest gain!

Fear of the LORD - do you have it?!

Pastor Rodney

“Be strong!”  God said, “I am sending you.”  Moses’ response, “Who am I…what shall I say…suppose they will not listen…I am slow in speech…send someone else.” (cf. Exodus 3)

God said, “ You mighty man of valor!”   Gideon’s response, “my clan is the weakest…I am the least!” (cf. Judges 6)

Caleb at eighty-five years old, said, “I am strong…now therefore, give me this mountain!”

David, a little shepherd boy stood against Goliath.  Goliath looked at him with distain for he was only a youth and Goliath was a seasoned warrior!  David acknowledged “the LORD does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD’s, and He will give you into my hands!” (cf. 1 Sam.)

The Apostle Paul, as he was sitting on death role, instructed/encouraged fearful Timothy to “be strong!” (cf. 2 Timothy 2)  Maybe I don’t feel strong.  Maybe I don’t measure up to the task.  Just maybe, I don’t want to be strong.  Maybe I’m tired of being strong!  That’s ok, because it is not your strength, but the strength available through grace in Jesus Christ.

Jesus said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)

In the examples above, and all the examples in the Bible, the men and women that God used came to understand that God is always greater than the battles of life!  God is greater than your feelings!  God is greater than your emotions!  God is greater than your hardships!  God is greater than your battles!  Therefore with all assurance “I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust!”

(Psalm 91:2)

Pastor Rodney

Sic Parvis Magna is a latin phrase which translates to “Greatness from Small Beginnings.”  The motto originates from an explorer dated back to 1587 by Sir Francis Drake.  He said, “There must be a beginning to any great matter, but the continuing unto the end until it be thoroughly finished yields the true glory.”  In other words, “its not how you start but how you finish!”  We are all on a journey, it has a beginning, and it has an ending.  The journey begins in this life, the only life we know which involves all of our five senses: sight, touch, smell, taste and hearing.  Any one of these five senses can be lost.  Although these five senses are a gift from our creator in Whose image we are made, these senses are unstable.  Just like our emotions/feelings, although a gift and a curse, we can’t build our life on them.  They are too unstable and uncertain.  There is only one thing in life that is certain and that never changes, and that is God’s word.  God’s word gives us everything we need for “life and godliness.”  We must resist all the “noises” and “lies” of our culture.  We must not give into the peer pressure (young and old) and liberal anti-God of our day.  Our culture would have you to believe that you can build your life without God.  Majority of people unfortunately build their lives without God.  They build their careers, resume, bank accounts, etc.,…with no thought of God and are seemingly successful.  The wisest, richest man to ever live was Solomon.  In Ecclesiastes a key word in which he penned was “vanity.”  Vanity meaning “the futile emptiness of trying to be happy apart from God.”  Power, popularity, prestige, pleasure - nothing can fill the void in man’s heart but God.  The late Rev. Billy Graham had said “every man is born with a hole in his heart which only God can fill.”  If you are filling it with anything other than what God has for you it is ultimately “vanity.”  Solomon wrote in Psalm 127 these wise words for today “Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it.”  God loves you. He is the God of new beginnings. He is on your side.  His greatest desire is that you journey in this life knowing His presence and that you spend an eternity with Him and all the redeemed someday in a place the Bible calls heaven.  You and I are preparing for heaven now.  What are you building?  More importantly - what are you building your life on?  I would encourage you to build your life on God and His word.  It all begins by receiving, by faith, His only begotten Son Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord and continuing to follow Him “looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith!” (cf. Hebrews 12: 1-2)

Pastor Rodney

“We’re marching to Zion, beautiful, beautiful Zion; we’re marching upward to Zion, the beautiful city of God.” - Isaac Watts

The body of Christ is made up of a diverse group of redeemed people.  Individually we come from different backgrounds and vocations. We have uniques gifts, interests and passions.  We also have different strengths and weaknesses.  Our lives have taken us down different paths in life and ministry.  From the “onlooker” some of our paths have been one of ease (looks can be deceiving).  For others it has been one of many heartaches, disappointments and set-backs.  But, no matter which path we find ourselves currently on, life in general has a way of “robing” us of our Joy.  Even the everyday routines and responsibilities of life can “squeeze” the joy from our souls.  But does this have to be the case?  Can we live our lives without losing our joy?  As a Christ follower Jesus has promised He would never leave us nor forsake us.  He has promised His Holy Spirit to dwell in us.  He has promised us eternal life!  He said that we are joint heirs with Christ, and that at His “right hand are pleasures forevermore!”   By staying in Jesus’ PRESENCE we can “count it all JOY!” when the path of life takes us down the road of trials of various kinds (cf. James 1:2). 

Yes, we can live a life overflowing with JOY because of the PRESENCE of Christ in our lives!  The bible promises, “you will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” 

Jesus said, “these things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” - John 15:11

“…weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning!” 

Pastor Rodney

My heart and prayers continue to go out to the families of those whose loved ones were taken in yet another horrific shooting.  Although this one was close to home, I cannot imagine how family and friends of the victims are feeling.  I am thankful for the young man who was on the scene and prevented further loss of life.  What’s the problem with our culture?  What’s the solution?  Our world is in chaos!  We could come up with multiple answers to the problem, but at the root it is what the Bible calls sin - the fallen nature of mankind.  We could come up with as many solutions as well, but there is only one true cure. The bible has the answer - God’s word to mankind.  God is able. God is willing, but we must look to Him - look to Jesus, for the cure. The psalmist gives a condition and promise in chapter 125, “Those who trust in the LORD (the condition) are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides forever (the promise).”  I can’t think of anything that would move one off their foundation then the recent events, but even in that, God promises those that trust in Him - will not be moved! Humanly speaking that is hard to imagine, but God is able!

A living faith in troubled times becomes even more dependent upon God.

We might not always know the “why” of the tragedies of life.  We may still have more questions than answers, but a living faith continues to trust in the sovereignty of God and His word.  We continue to walk by faith even if our circumstances don’t change.  I like how Warren Wiersbe puts it, “God doesn’t always change the circumstances, but He can change us to meet the circumstances.  That’s what it means to live by faith.”

The prophet Habakkuk had a godly burden and vision for his nation and God’s people.  He responded by waiting upon God and prayer.  As he prayed “O LORD, revive Your work in the midst of the years!” 

I’m praying for the comfort and healing of the families affected from the recent shooting. I’m praying for the healing of our nation. I’m praying for the revival of God’s people.  I’m trusting God to honor His promises, but too, knowing that I must be willing to meet the condition.

If I am willing, God is more than able and willing!

“If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways (the condition), then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land (the promise).”

• 2 Chronicles 7: 14

Pastor Rodney

Have you heard the expression “I’ve got your back?”  What does that mean?  Essentially a second set of eyes.  It is the equivalent of saying “I will look out for you.”  A person saying they have your back means they are there to help you out, they are a second set of eyes and hands for you.

If you are fortunate you might have one or two family members or friends who looks out for you, but you might be on your own, or at least feel at times like you are on your own.  But even if you have that rare individual who “has your back”, they can’t compare to your creator - the LORD!

Godly men and women down through the ages and in the Bible understood this - “if it had not been the LORD who was on “our” side - if it had not been the LORD who was on “my” side,…they would have swallowed us alive!” (cf. Psalm 124)  Listen, God is on your side, not against you!  But you have to be on His side.  Jesus said, “he who is not with Me is against Me.” (cf. Matthew 12:30)  Jesus came and died for “your” sins so that you might have eternal life!  I would say that qualifies Jesus “having your back!”  But Jesus came not only so that you could have eternal life but to help you journey through this life!   As Paul penned in 2 Corinthians 4, “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed” (vv. 8,9) - why?  Because God is on your side!

The prophet Jeremiah acknowledged this as he penned “through the LORD’S mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not.  They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.  The LORD is my portion, says my soul.  Therefore I hope in Him!” (Lamentations 3: 22-24)

Thus says the LORD of hosts “for I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you and future and a hope!” (Jeremiah 29:11)

“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?!” (Romans 8:31)

God loves you!  He is on your side!  You are not alone - He has your back!

What a comfort and blessing to know that “our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 124)

And all God’s people said, “Amen!”

Pastor Rodney

“I’d like to think that I’m older now

And surely I must have grown out of this

I’d like to reach some higher ground

But what a sad life to live without

Grace and mercy, grace and mercy.” - Lyrics Grace & Mercy, Jess Ray

Mercy delivers us from what we do deserve.  Grace gives us what we do not deserve.  We are all on this wonderful journey called “life” and mercy  and grace are constant companions.  We need mercy and grace during the  good times, the bad and all the in between times - mercy and grace.

Where is this source of mercy and grace? - from the creator and sustainer of all life - God.  “Unto You I lift up my eyes, O You who dwells in the heavens…so our eyes look to the LORD our God, until He has mercy on us. Have mercy on us, O LORD, have mercy on us!” - Psalm 123

There is grace available at the throne of grace from the God of all grace, so lift your eyes of faith to Him!  As christians (Christ followers) everything isn’t going to be easy in our journey, we must unfortunately endure sickness, losses, disappointments and sometimes sit at the “table of brokenness.”  But there is God’s mercy and grace at the table!

Sometimes the source of brokenness comes from family and yes, even the family of God - “what are these wounds between your arms? Then he will answer, those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends.” (Zechariah 13:6)

King David understood his source of mercy and grace - “I am in great distress.  Please let us fall into the hand of the LORD, for His mercies are great; but do no let me fall into the hand of man.” (2 Samuel 24: 14)

Jesus said, “blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” (Matthew 5:7)  Have you looked to Jesus for His mercy and grace?  Are you extending mercy and grace to those around you?  Micah reminds us “what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God.” (6:8b)

“Through many dangers, toils, and snares I have already come; tis grace that brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.” - Amazing grace!

Pastor Rodney

“I thank God, whom I serve with a pure conscience, as my forefathers did…,that I may be filled with joy, when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you…” (cf. 2 Timothy 1:3-7)

Happy Independence Day!  - “A call to remembrance of our heritage and faith!”  I, for one, am thankful for my country.  I am thankful for the freedoms that I enjoy and take part in - my Independence!  I am thankful for the church of God reformation movement.  I am thankful for my faith in the God of the Bible, and the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal savior and Lord!

I am thankful for the rich heritage of my “faith” and “country.”  I am thankful for my dual citizenship - citizen of America and citizen of heaven!

From the Declaration on July 4th, 1776 to the present day, American Independence has been an annual celebration - celebrating the birth of the United States, and honoring God’s role in its formation. Yes, America has a christian heritage.  For over two centuries, America’s presidents have acknowledged a belief in God, looked to Him for guidance and credited Him for His blessings!  “In God We Trust” is America’s official National motto, with variants “In God is our Trust” from America’s national anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner.”  The fundamental basis of this Nation’s law was given to Moses on the Mount.  The fundamental basis of our Bill of Rights comes from the teachings which we get from Exodus and Matthew, from Isaiah and the Apostle Paul.

“Therefore,” as Paul said, “I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you…for God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1: 6-7)

Never forget your rich heritage as a christian nation.  Place your faith in the God of the Bible and in the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord.  

Lastly, I am thankful for the freedom to practice my faith, therefore - 

“I was glad when they said to me, ‘let us go into the house of the LORD.’”

- Psalm 122

Happy Independence Day!

Pastor Rodney

“I will lift up my eyes to the hills - from whence comes my help?  My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” - Psalm 121:1-2

Life is messy.  We are broken people living in a broken world - precisely why Jesus came.  Jesus came to make all things new.  We can experience that newness now, through the new birth, but life is still messy.  Someday Jesus is coming back again to restore all things (no more mess)!  His word declares He is going to make a new heaven and new earth where righteousness dwells.  But until then, life is messy.  No new revelation here - it always has been since the beginning of time.  The redemption of mankind via the cross was messy business!  Jesus didn’t come to save us from all the mess but to give us help and hope in the mess until He comes back to make all things new.  I’ve come to a conclusion, due in part, to things out of my control that I will not discuss.  The conclusion is this, either God is the God of all (meaning all of His word is true), or He is not God at all!   Meaning by faith I choose to believe all the promises of God (over 3,000) or I don’t believe any of it!  The God that said, “For He (God) so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, what whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life!”  is the same God that said, “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (cf. John 3:16; Romans 8:28)

It’s easier for us to believe John 3:16, but hard to accept Romans 8:28 -  “All things work together for good!”  You mean…. Yes all things!  Not that all things are good, but if by faith we will place our trust and hope in Him, give Him our mess - He will use it ultimately for good, even if we don’t see it on this side of heaven.  Church is it time we either believe and obey the whole council of God’s word - or none of it!

I am choosing by faith to embrace the whole council of God’s word - how about you?!

“The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore.” - Psalm 121: 8

Pastor Rodney

Father’s and Mother’s day have always been a more difficult time for me to preach.  I’m not sure why?  I am fortunate to still have both of my parents, whom I love and I know that they love me.  I am fortunate too to have good memories of my childhood.  So why the difficulty?  Maybe its because not everyone still have their parents?  Maybe its because not everyone has good memories of their childhood.  Maybe because I know that not all have a good relationship with their parents?  Maybe its because not everyone is a father or mother and I feel this is a time that excludes them?  Maybe its because I feel I’ve fallen short as a father at times, not loved perfectly  - made my mistakes along the way?

Not sure exactly why the difficulty?  One thing I do know for sure though is that the God of the Bible is the perfect parent - our heavenly Father.  I know that He loves perfectly and makes no mistakes - no, not one.

I know that family is important to Him and that He designed and instituted the family structure. I know that we are to love one another “unconditionally” and that all lives matter to Him!  I know that He has instructed children to “obey their parents.”  I know that He has commanded us to “Honor our father and mother.”  I know that He has instructed fathers to raise their children “up in the training and admonition of the Lord.” (cf. Ephesians 6: 1-4)   I know that we still love imperfectly but if we follow God’s instruction, and with His help, we can do better and be a better people for it - a people pleasing to God, which according to Solomon is the “conclusion of the whole matter!” (cf. Ecclesiastes 12: 13)

“For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named.” (Eph.3:14)

Happy Father’s Day!

Pastor Rodney

“In my distress I cried to the LORD, and He heard me.” - Psalm 120

“Prayer is beyond any question the highest activity of the human soul.  Man is at his greatest and highest when upon his knees he comes face to face with God.” - Martyn Lloyd-Jones

The Bible exhorts us to “come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)

There may be times in our life that we don’t even know how or what to pray for.  It is in those times that we realize the necessity of the Holy Spirit in our prayer life.  “For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Holy Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” (cf. Romans 8:26-27)   There are times we need to cry out like Jabez in 1 Chronicles 4:10, “…0h, that You would bless me…”  At first glance this may sound like a selfish prayer, but Jabez is leaving the “blessing” entirely up to God, that is, Jabez is putting His life entirely upon God’s will and His purpose for his life.  He is asking for God’s blessings, not the world’s blessings - “The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it.” (Proverbs 10: 22)  Laura Story said “sometimes we have to redefine what God’s ‘blessings’ could mean, as she points out in her lyrics to ‘Blessings’ - “what if my greatest disappointments or the aching of this life is a revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy?”

This life gives us much to worry about, but as Christ followers, Jesus said, “Do not worry about your life…which one of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?…for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.  But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you…sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (cf. Matthew 6: 25-34)

Pastor Rodney

My thoughts, heart and prayers go out to the families of the latest tragedy at the elementary school in Texas.  Evil seems to be winning in our society, so much so even people of faith are loosing heart.  If God is good, and He is, where is He in all of this?!  Certainly a sovereign God could have prevented this from happening?  There is an age-old problem of why the righteous suffer while the ungodly seem to prosper?  We start questioning the ways of God, and I think even blame God for some of these tragedies.

Tragedies and questions are as old as the Bible.  We read the account of the tragedies of Job’s life.  The bible said “his wife said to him, ‘do you still hold fast to your integrity?  Curse God and die!’”  Job’s response, “shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?”

The bible said that Job fell to the ground and worshiped God in the midst of his tragedies and said, “naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I return there.  The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.”  The text goes on to say, “In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong.”  Asaph, a levite who served as a musician during King David’s reign, when he witnessed the prosperity of the wicked was so much troubled the Bible says that his “feet had almost stumbled; my feet had nearly slipped”, meaning he was questioning his faith.  Asaph said, “when I thought how to understand this, it was too painful for me.”  Even as followers of Jesus, we have things in our life that are too painful to understand and our faith is tested.  As people of faith, with God’s help we must look past the tragedies, look past our feeling and emotions.  Get beyond our questions and look to who God is as recorded in His word.  When like Job and Asaph your faith nearly stumbles, fall down and worship Him.  Draw near to Him and put your trust in Him regardless of what is happening all around you.  When you do, you may not have all your questions answered but like Job and Asaph will come to the conclusion that “truly God is good!”

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever.” (Jude 24-25) - and all God’s people said, “Amen!”

Pastor Rodney

Memorial Day, Memorial weekend.  A time to pause and remember the ultimate sacrifices made for the freedoms we embrace and enjoy.  A time to remember our loved ones, family and friends that are no longer here on earth with us - a painful reminder of our loss and deep love for them.  For those that have suffered loss recently the pain and memory of our loss is way too fresh.  For those whose loss has been long ago the pain has been mitigated but their memory still fresh.   Although painful, it is good to remember, as long as it does not keep us from moving forward.   We honor our loved ones by remembering, but also by moving forward with the life we have been given.  Life is the most precious gift from our creator, but we are all fully aware it is not lived void of pain and loss.  The bible helps those who seek His help to mitigate our loss and pain.  Jesus came preciously to defeat sin and the grave.  There is not only hope, but God’s own promise that those who believe and receive His Son Jesus Christ will inherit eternal life.  Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” (John 11:25-26)   Jesus says to remember His life, remember His blood shed for your sins.  Never forget the price paid at calvary. (cf. 1 Cor. 11: 23-26)  Also, remember He is coming again to stop time as we know it and to usher in eternity for all eternity - He will make all things new!

Yes, remember and honor those that have gone on, but also live and prepare for your eternity.   Jesus return is soon and in the meantime you and I have present responsibilities!

May you have a blessed and hopeful Memorial weekend!

Pastor Rodney

As Mother’s Day approaches I want to take time to say “Happy Mother’s Day” not only to my Mother but to all Mother’s!  I realize I am so fortunate and blessed to still have my Mother with me.  I think there is a special God given bond we have with our Mother’s, in a healthy relationship.  I know for different reasons not all have a healthy relationship.  But I also know that making the top 10 commandments, coming in at number 5, is “Honor your father and mother!”  God has placed our Mother’s at a place of honor.

Jesus not only honored His earthly mother in living, but also in dying as He echoed from the cross to His disciple John, “Behold your mother!”  The bible says from that hour that disciple took her to his own home.

But what about the woman who will never marry?  Never have children?  Is she considered less of a woman?  Is identifying with women kind as a life-bearer, the only trait?  In the kingdom of God, the Bible says that “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28)

Jesus said in Matthew “whoever does the will of My father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.” (cf. Matt.12: 50)

We need to understand that biblical womanhood is to include every woman.  While a woman may fulfill the role or calling of wife and mother, that is not her highest calling.  The bible says her highest calling is “fear of the Lord.” (cf. Proverbs 31: 30)  Her true identity is who she is in Christ and she first and foremost fears the Lord.  Ruth understood the great calling of following Yahweh.  She served her mother-in-law with loyalty and served God with faithfulness.  She broke cultural barriers and was commended and honored, not for her role as wife and mother, but for her fear of the Lord.

I want to say thank you to our Mother’s, but also to all women who have loved, mentored and mothered in the fear of the Lord - your true identity!

Pastor Rodney

The prophet Isaiah said, “In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the LORD sitting on a throne” (Isaiah 6:1).  Isaiah was not alone is seeing God’s throne - Moses, Daniel, Micaiah and John had glimpses of the throne of God too.  “Holy, holy, holy” were always the descriptive words echoed!  “The whole earth is full of His Glory!” “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created!”  No one can look directly at the Creator of Genesis 1 and simply say it was a nice experience!  No one can see God and continue as if everything was normal.  Seeing the Lord will change your life is such a dramatic way that our old previous life is dead - dead in a good way - dead to sin and alive to righteousness.  

God, our creator has revealed Himself through His creation and His word.  You and I have not physically seen the Lord, but we can see Him through the pages of scripture!  When we see Him as He is, we too will cry out “holy, holy, holy is the Lord!”  We will see our depraved state before a holy God and like Isaiah will come to the conclusion “woe is me, for I am undone!”  Undone is not a bad place to be because God will not do anything with us until He has first of all - undone us.  We all need the healing touch of Jesus in our lives.  Jesus is the cure for the penalty and power of sin.  Come to Jesus and be saved from the penalty of sin.  Come to Jesus and be free from the power of sin.  Let me see Jesus only - only He can satisfy!  Have you seen the Lord?!  Paul reminds us in Romans 1:20, “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.”

He has revealed Himself to you - just open your heart and let Him in - you won’t regret it - and you will be changed!

Pastor Rodney

Now what?

That is a good question coming off of Easter.  The disciples would have asked the same - now what?  They had been through this emotional roller coaster of witnessing Jesus perform miracles, to being crucified on the cross and buried in a tomb to rising from the dead and defeating death!

Now what - would have been the question as they witnessed Jesus’ ascension - “men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:11)

Jesus is coming back again the Bible says, but in meantime - what are we to do?  We know scripture tells us to be watching and ready, but that doesn’t mean just “gazing up to heaven!”  So what are we to do?  Jesus articulated very clearly of what we are to do - “go” make disciples!

A disciple is to be a life long follower and learner of Christ, helping others to come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and Lord!  The great commission Jesus gave to His church is the answer to the “now what?”  You might be in an emotional roller coaster right now.  You might be in a good place in your life right now or maybe the polar opposite, but that doesn’t change our “now what?”  Our commission is to be a way of life.  To live in such a way in our sphere of influence, even in our mess, that it influences others to come to Christ!  Stay in God’s word!  Tell others what you are learning from God’s word.  Keep plugged into the local body of believers.  Tell your unsaved friends what is going on at church.  Living the christian life in our spheres of influence is “going” as Jesus commanded.  Jesus never meant life to get in the way of the mission, but to live out the mission in life!

“Go…and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” - Jesus

Pastor Rodney

“Were you there when they crucified my Lord?…were you there when they nailed Him to the tree?…were you there when they laid Him in the tomb?…were you there when He rose up from the grave?!” (American Folk Hymn)

Where you there?

Simon was - passing by - things to do - too busy to get involved.  But was stopped and ordered to carry Jesus’ cross - Jesus changed his life forever!

Mary Magdalene was -  life full of sin - beyond human help.  Jesus healed her

 and changed her life forever!

Peter was - denied Jesus in action and words, but Jesus restored him and changed his life forever!

John was - from apostle to the caregiver of Jesus’ mother - eventually alone on an island, but Jesus changed his life forever!

Centurion was there - just doing his job - a rough and tough soldier of Rome -

Jesus changed his life forever!

Mother of Judas - her son betrayed Jesus.  Jesus echoed from the cross “father forgive them.”  “My Judas too?!” -  Cyborea was her name.  And though nameless in scripture - Jesus changed her life!

Where you there?

Yes, you were and so was I!  Our sins and the sins of the whole world were there, past, present and future.  Jesus died because of the sins of mankind - “all have sinned” the Bible says, that is why we need a savior.  “There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

Paul said “for I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the scriptures.” (1 Corinthians 15)

The bible says “…these things are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” (Jn 20)

I pray that Easter doesn’t just come and go, but that you experience Easter as maybe never before - Jesus can change your life too!

Pastor Rodney

I don’t think I can articulate any better the irony of Palm Sunday to the cross then expressed here by Spoken Gospel.

“There is an ironic beauty in Palm Sunday. Jesus rides into Jerusalem surrounded by people crying, "Save us Lord" (Hosanna). Not long after, another crowd would cry out, "Crucify him." What's ironic and beautiful is the fact that Jesus would say, "Yes" to both crowds. In fact, he would save his people by crucifixion. He would be Hosanna by dying on a cross. 

The people who surrounded Jesus with palm branches as he rode into town on a donkey were asking for salvation. They had no idea what it would cost for Jesus to answer that request. But Jesus did. He died for the sins of all those who believe that he is God and rose from the dead. 

Maybe you have your own shout of Hosanna. Maybe you need salvation. Maybe you are in a place in your life where you are crying out, "Save me! Someone!" Jesus is riding into your life too. And he will answer, "Yes" to your cry in the exact same way. He died for your sins in order to reconcile you to God. Believe in him and he will ride victoriously into your life.”

• Spoken Gospel

Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14: 6)

Pastor Rodney

“Grief never ends…but it changes.  It’s a passage, not a place to stay.  Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith…

It is the price of love.” (author unknown)

We all have or will experience grief.  Grief comes in different forms, shapes and sizes - trials, troubles and distress.  The greatest grief of all comes though when it is attached to someone we love.  It would be easier not to care, not to love.  It would be easier for us to just somehow disconnect from others and avoid the grief that comes from loving others.  But, the greatest human need is to love and be loved which comes from our creator and being made in His image.  No one experienced grief more than the savior of mankind - Jesus.  The prophet Isaiah foretold some 700 years before Christ’s birth what our savior would go through because of His love for you and me - “despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief…smitten by God, and afflicted.  He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities.” (cf. Isaiah 53)

- this was all the price of love!  Jesus willingly paid the price because of His love for all of mankind.  Jesus not only paid the price for sin, but He is our burden bearer - “by His stripes we are healed!”  You and I must come to Jesus for forgiveness of sin but He desires you and I to “cast all our cares upon Him because He cares for us” - He loves you!

You and I aren’t meant to carry our burdens alone, give them to the great burden bearer - Jesus is His name!

“I must tell Jesus all of my trials, I cannot bear those burdens alone, in my distress He kindly will help me, He always loves and cares for His own.  I must tell Jesus, I must tell Jesus, I cannot bear my burdens alone; I’m must tell Jesus, I must tell Jesus, Jesus can help me, Jesus alone!”

(I must tell Jesus, Elisha A. Hoffman)

Pastor Rodney

The bible reminds us in Psalm 90:12 to “teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

Solomon, the wisest man to every live instructed us to “let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter (life): fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all.” (cf. Ecclesiastes 12: 13)

The bible is God’s word to help us live life to its fullest!   The God of the Bible is the same God who “in the beginning created the heavens and the earth.”

The same God who new you when you were in your mother’s womb and who has declared that you are fearfully and wonderfully made!” (cf. Psalm 139: 13-16)

The same God who sent His Son (Jesus) so that you might be saved, and ready for an eternity with Him someday soon! (cf. John 3: 16-18)

We are living in the “last days” and we have been since Jesus was resurrected from the dead over two thousand years ago.  In light of eternity, what is two thousand years?!   Many of us will die before Jesus comes back, but whether we live or die we should live our present lives with an eternal perspective - our eyes on eternity! 

As John Newton penned in that great hymn Amazing Grace - “when we’ve been there ten thousand years!”  Our lives on earth are temporal and short, but eternal and for all eternity in the life to come!

Jesus would have you to live wisely in this present age.  Jesus told the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25.  Jesus said that five were wise and that five were foolish.   The wise lived out their lives in expectation of the bridegroom coming at any moment.   The foolish lived out their lives with no regard of his coming.

And Jesus said that “those who were ready went in with him to the wedding and the door was shut.”

Someday the door of grace is going to be shut!  So you and I would be wise to heed Jesus’ warning “watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor hour in which the Son of Man is coming!”

Pastor Rodney

Do you consider yourself wise or foolish?  I suppose your answer to that question would be how you define wisdom?  I prefer the bibles definition because it is really the only one that matters.  In fact, Jesus reminds us that His word is the only thing that will endure in this life and the only thing that will prepare us for the life to come.  In Psalms (111:10) and Proverbs (9:10) the bible reminds us that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.”  The bibles reminds us in Ecclesiastes (12:13-14) that all is “vanity”…therefore, “let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all.  For God will bring every work into judgement, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.”  Jesus said “I will show you whom you should fear: fear Him who, after He has killed, has the power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!” (cf. Lk 12:5)   The bible says that “the message (preaching) of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us which are being saved it is the power of God!” (1 Cor.1:18)  The church at large, the modern church, has watered down God’s truth. We have made it more “palatable” and wonder why the church has lost it’s power to change lives!

Jesus tells a parable in Matthew 25 about ten virgins, five wise and five unwise.  Five were ready for His return and five were not.  Five entered the wedding and five were shut out.  Jesus at the end of that parable warns all to “watch” therefore, “for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming!”  For many, Jesus has in a way already come because they have passed on.  Their state of readiness here in this life determined their eternal destiny.  There will be a generation that will be alive when Jesus comes back, we may or may not be that generation.  But regardless if we are or are not, the call is to “watch” and to live out our daily lives in a state of readiness.  The fundamentals of military readiness (Department of Defense) teaches initial readiness, increasing readiness and sustaining readiness.  This state of readiness from our military keeps us safe.  How much more so should we spiritually be living in a state of readiness?!  The bible says that “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against rulers of darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.  Therefore take up the whole armor of God!” (cf. Ephesians 6:10-20)

“For the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready!” - Revelation 19:7    Be wise - put your faith and trust in Christ!

Pastor Rodney

“Though the mountains may be moved into the sea,

Though the ground beneath might crumble and give way,

I can hear my Father singing over me,

‘It's gonna be ok, it's gonna be ok’” -  Lyrics, Into the sea 

Great song.  Great lyrics, lyrics based upon the gospel hope!

It's been said that a person can live forty days without food, four days without water, four minutes without air, but only four seconds without hope.

With all that has gone on, and currently is going on in our world and this country, we need hope that will get us through the day.  We need to know - “it’s going to be ok!”

As Jesus approached His last week leading to the cross, He was concerned about His earthly family and His disciples. Their world was going to be shaken!  They were going to be tested physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually as never before and Jesus wanted to make sure they knew “it was going to be ok!”

Yes, He was going to be betrayed and arrested, but it was going to be ok.  Yes, He was going to be scourged with the cat-o-nine-tails, but it was going to be ok.  Yes, He was going to be crucified - but it was going to be ok.  Yes, He was going to be buried, but it was going to be ok - resurrection morning was coming!

Yes, there are wars and rumors of wars, but it’s going to be ok.  Yes, there are famines, pestilences, and earthquakes - but it’s going to be ok.

Yes, you may be going through the fire right now, but it’s going to be ok.

How do I know? - I’ve read the book - it’s going to be ok!  In fact, it’s going to be better than ok, Jesus said there would be a new heaven and a new earth!  Jesus said He is going to make all things new -it’s going to be ok!

As a Christ follow you and I are still going to go through stuff, it’s called life - but it’s going to be ok!  If you have Jesus, It’s going to be ok!

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away” - Jesus.   Jesus’ words let you and me know that - it’s going to be ok!

Pastor Rodney

“Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me; patient and loving He’s waiting and watching, watching for you and for me…why should we linger when Jesus is pleading, pleading for you and for me; why should we wait, then, and heed not His mercy, mercies for you and for me?” - Softly and Tenderly, Will L. Thomas

“Come, for all things are now ready!” - Jesus

The single most greatest invitation of all time - past, present and future!

The invitation to come to Christ and have your sins forgiven, your name written in the Lamb’s book of life and to have a place at “the marriage supper of the Lamb!” (cf. Revelation 19: 9)

But, unfortunately so many make excuses not to come.  Excuses are as old as mankind, all the way back to Adam - “the woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave to me of the tree, and I ate,” and Eve - “the serpent deceived me, and I ate.”  Moses - “O, my Lord, I am not eloquent…I am slow of speech and slow of tongue.”  Jeremiah - “Ah, Lord God!  Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.”

You and I have our excuses, why this or that -or we play the blame game.

But when it comes to knowing God in a personal way through Jesus Christ, we have no one to blame but ourselves.  God has said, “they (you and me) are without excuse!” (cf. Romans 1:20)  Jesus tells a parable in Luke, a parable of the great supper.  The invitation was given out, and one by one the people made excuses.  I can’t speak for those in the parable. I can’t speak for you, I can only speak for myself.  You and I have been personally invited and we must accept the invitation personally.  The invitation is to be part of the eternal, everlasting kingdom of God!  The invitation is impartial - He bids all to come! The invitation is now!  The blessings are present and future!  Don’t let your possessions, occupation, hobbies or any manufactured excuses keep you from the kingdom of God!

Don’t let your earthly affections keep you from the lover of your soul! 

Set your heart on a new affection - Jesus Christ!  You won’t be sorry - in this life or the one to come!

Pastor Rodney

From the prophet Malachi until John the Baptist - 400 years of silence, 400 years of waiting, 400 years of questions!  You are not alone when God seems silent.  You are not alone when you ask the question - “God, are you there?!”  If we are honest, we have all had those moments, or will.  But you’re in good company.  Look at the life of Joseph, sold into slavery by jealous brothers.  Look at Sarai and Abram, Job, Moses.  Even Jesus Himself, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?  Why are You so far from helping Me, and from the words of My groaning? (Psalm 22)

Why does God seem silent during difficult times?  Why does God seem so far away at times?  Why do prayers seem to go unanswered?  These kind of thoughts and feelings can destroy a persons heart and faith.  The key word is “seems.”  Our perceived perception of God being silent, is actually often times when God is at work - even in those moments of despair and doubt.  Even those periods of life when we pray and God doesn’t seem to be listening.  God has given us many accounts in the Bible as a testimony to His faithfulness to His people.  We get to read their stories as an encouragement and example to us.  Did Jesus not promise “I will never leave thee nor forsake thee!?”  Jesus in His parable of the persistent widow reminds us “that we always ought to pray and not lose heart!

(cf. Luke 18)  Habakkuk reminds us “though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come.” (2: 2-3)  The enemy of your soul wants you to be discouraged, wants you to give up and doubt God’s love for you.  But, the lover of your soul, Jesus, desires you to persevere - to never give up!  Yes, be honest with God and how you are feeling - God can handle it.  But do not let it discourage you in your journey of faith and walk with Jesus.

“Pray and do not lose heart!”

“Great is Your faithfulness.  The LORD is my portion, say my soul, therefore I hope in Him!” (Lamentations 3:21-24)

Pastor Rodney

From the prophet Malachi until John the Baptist - 400 years of silence, 400 years of waiting, 400 years of questions!  You are not alone when God seems silent.  You are not alone when you ask the question - “God, are you there?!”  If we are honest, we have all had those moments, or will.  But you’re in good company.  Look at the life of Joseph, sold into slavery by jealous brothers.  Look at Sarai and Abram, Job, Moses.  Even Jesus Himself, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?  Why are You so far from helping Me, and from the words of My groaning? (Psalm 22)

Why does God seem silent during difficult times?  Why does God seem so far away at times?  Why do prayers seem to go unanswered?  These kind of thoughts and feelings can destroy a persons heart and faith.  The key word is “seems.”  Our perceived perception of God being silent, is actually often times when God is at work - even in those moments of despair and doubt.  Even those periods of life when we pray and God doesn’t seem to be listening.  God has given us many accounts in the Bible as a testimony to His faithfulness to His people.  We get to read their stories as an encouragement and example to us.  Did Jesus not promise “I will never leave thee nor forsake thee!?”  Jesus in His parable of the persistent widow reminds us “that we always ought to pray and not lose heart!

(cf. Luke 18)  Habakkuk reminds us “though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come.” (2: 2-3)  The enemy of your soul wants you to be discouraged, wants you to give up and doubt God’s love for you.  But, the lover of your soul, Jesus, desires you to persevere - to never give up!  Yes, be honest with God and how you are feeling - God can handle it.  But do not let it discourage you in your journey of faith and walk with Jesus.

“Pray and do not lose heart!”

“Great is Your faithfulness.  The LORD is my portion, say my soul, therefore I hope in Him!” (Lamentations 3:21-24)

Pastor Rodney

Ah, Valentines Day.  What comes to mind when you think of Valentines Day?  Maybe heart-shaped boxes and candy?  Maybe “be my Valentine” cards?  Maybe, but most likely- love!  A common basic need of mankind is to love and be loved.  Many great movies or plays were written about love - Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare, “O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?”; Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen; The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks; Cleopatra and Mark Anthony - just to name a few.

The are many love stories (non-fiction) in the Bible as well, just to name a few - Adam and Eve; Isaac and Rebecca; Abram and Sarai; Ruth and Boaz; Samson and Delilah; David and Bathsheba; Hosea and Gomer; Song of Solomon, “my beloved is mine, and I am his.”

Actually, the Bible as a whole is God’s love letter to mankind.  You may or may not like love stories, but you are written into the greatest love story ever told, “For God so loved the world (you!) that He gave His only begotten Son (Jesus), that whoever (you!) believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life!” (John 3:16)  No one loves you like Jesus!

Although the depths of love is difficult to explain, and love is abused, distorted and misrepresented in our society, love is given and received - it is the act of the will, not just feelings.  Feeling and emotions come and go, but true love lasts forever.  God’s love for you lasts forever.  He loves you even at your worst - “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (you!)”  (Romans 5:8)

The older I get and the more loved ones, family and friends pass away, the more I appreciate the love that Jesus has for me, for you, and all of mankind.

God has initiated His love for you and me, but we must respond, He gave us the free will to receive or reject His love.  But, “as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become the children of God, to those who believe in His name.” - John 1:12

Jesus loves you - Happy Valentines Day!

Pastor Rodney

“Let it Be”

“When I find myself in times of trouble, Mother Mary comes to me speaking words of wisdom, let it be.  And in my hour of darkness she is standing right in front of me speaking words of wisdom, let it be.

Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be.  Speaking words of wisdom, let it be. And when the broken hearted people living in the world agree, there will be an answer, let it be.” - lyrics Paul McCartney/John Lennon

When “Let it Be” was released on March 6th, 1970, I was only 8 years old.  Now at 60 years of age, this song is still popular.  At 60 I’m facing temptations that I didn’t encounter at 8 years of age.  There are a lot more “voices” trying to speak wisdom into my life.  But what I must decide is it human wisdom or godly wisdom?  Yes, it is good to seek counsel of others, but at the end of the day it is the wisdom from above that will stand.  That is why Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 2 “your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.” (v.5)

Jesus said, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away” (Matt 24:35).  Knowing and submitting to God’s will for our lives is not always easy!  Many things and people cross our paths that temp us to submit to our flesh and human wisdom, but we must stop and ask “what is God’s will in this circumstance or situation?” - and that is not always easy.  If we are honest with ourselves we would say “sometimes I don’t always like or believe God’s will for my life!”  There are many examples in the Bible to what I am saying.  The annunciation of Jesus birth (cf. Luke 1: 26-38) to Mary was not easy to take for Mary nor Joseph.  Mary’s initial response in the flesh was “how can this be?”  But Mary’s final response in the spirit was “let it be to me according to Your word.” - 

“with God nothing will be impossible!”

Sometimes we need to get away from all the noice and get alone with the Lord so we can hear that “still small voice” of His spirit.  That same spirit just might be asking the question “what are you doing?” (cf. 1 Kgs 19: 13).

God help us to respond like Mary - 

“let it be to me according to Your word!”

Pastor Rodney

In my lifetime, I can think of no other Evangelist that preached the good news of Jesus Christ with such simplicity and power - then that of Billy Graham.   And now, by the grace and mercy of God, he is reaping his reward.  Jesus Himself spoke of the simplicity of salvation when He said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of Heaven.” (Matt.18:3)

Of course we are to grow up, to mature in our faith and our walk with Christ, but we must always maintain this child like faith, humbly before our Savior and Lord.  When I think of Billy Grahams life, I realize I will never be a Billy Graham, and neither will you.  But Jesus hasn’t called you and I to be a Billy Graham.  You see, our calling is as simple as salvation - to glorify Christ in our own life - no matter what we do in life and ministry.

We are all called to salvation, and upon accepting that call you are now a minister in your own right, part of the royal priesthood of believers - and now called to glorify Christ in your daily walk!  It is all so simple, and we make it all so hard.  The bible says, “…when He comes, in that Day to be glorified in His saints and to be admired among all those who believe…that God would count you worthy of this calling…that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Thessalonians 1: 10-12)

To glorify Christ in you daily walk, is to - understand your calling!

Pastor Rodney

Jesus.  Jesus is…?  “Who do you say that I am?” - Jesus

“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” - Acts 4:12

We are in the time I believe where knowledge has increased exponentially but we have strayed further and further from God’s truth!

I believe we are in that time that the Apostle Paul spoke of in 2 Timothy 4,

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teacher; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.”

We need to stand firm on what we believe and know why we believe it!   We live in a time where right is wrong and wrong is right, according to the final authority - God’s written word, the Bible!

God desperately desires for mankind (man/woman) to know and follow the truth!  The writer of Hebrews reminds us of that!  God has spoke through His creation - nature itself.  God has spoke through the prophets, apostles and disciples.  God has spoke through Jesus Christ - God incarnate, the second person of the trinity!   Christ is the living word, and the Bible is the written word - the logos of God!

Jesus - God in the flesh, was fully divine and fully human (yet with no sin).

Jesus was often referred to as Prophet, Priest and King.

Prophets spoke the word of God - Jesus is the word.

Priests continually made offerings to God - Jesus was the once and for all offering.

Kings have ruled temporary kingdoms - Jesus is the eternal King of His eternal and everlasting kingdom - the kingdom of God!

Because of Jesus’ nature and role - you and I have hope for today, tomorrow and beyond the grave!  Jesus can sympathize with our weaknesses and was in all points tempted as we are (yet without sin).

So, “let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (cf. Hebrews 4: 15)

Jesus…a caring and compassionate Savior - do you know Him?

Pastor Rodney

“Imagine there’s no heaven, it’s easy if you try.  No hell below us, above us, only sky.  Imagine all the people livin’ for today.” (Lyrics, John Lennon)

Very popular song, but a very sad song.  Why would you want to imagine there is no heaven?  I guess if there is no heaven then one would conclude there is no hell.  But, to not exist after this life would be hell.

But the Bible, God’s word tells us different!  The good news of the bible is that those who trust in Jesus Christ as their personal savior and Lord, have a hope not only in the present, but a hope beyond the grave -Heaven!

1 John 5 tell us “…that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.  He who has the Son has life; and he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.  These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.” 

Yes, we have a soul that is going to last for eternity, in one of two places. Where that is, is totally up to what you do with JESUS in this life!

David in psalm 23 penned, “The LORD is my shepherd…surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life; and I WILL DWELL IN THE HOUSE OF THE LORD FOREVER!” - PRAISE THE LORD!

“For the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of water.  And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” (Revelation 7:17)

Our hope is not “I hope so” but “I know so!” - if, you know the shepherd!

Jesus wants to walk with you in this life so that you might experience His unshakable goodness and mercy, regardless of your situation and have the hope of eternity.  John Lennon got it wrong, there is a heaven and a hell.  We don’t want to just live for today, but for eternity!

Pastor Rodney

“The Security of the Sheep”

I like the “green pastures…the still waters…the restoring of my soul… paths of righteousness” of life…but “the valleys” of life… not so much.

Who likes valleys?!  Valley’s can be dark experiences, a feeling of being all hedged in with no way out.  We have all experienced valleys, or will -

the just and the unjust and bible says.  Jesus Himself said, “He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and the unjust.” 

Job experienced the “green pastures…still waters” but he also experienced some extreme valley’s of life.  So much so that Job’s wife told him to “curse God and die!”  But Job’s response was “shall we indeed accept the good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?”  After reading Job’s life story, “adversity” is not the descriptive word I would have chosen if I was Job, would have been more like “devastation!”

But you see, Job, like David, experienced the security of knowing the LORD was his shepherd and therefore no matter what life threw at him he was secure in the LORD!  Yes, we will all have valleys, and we all are certainly in that “valley of of the shadow of death” that psalm 23 speaks off.  But as Christ followers we have nothing to fear in this life or the next because our shepherd (Jesus) promises to be with us!  The “shadow” of death cannot harm you!  Shadows cannot stop your path, in this life or the next!  Yes, the shadow remains, but death has been removed because of Jesus!  We are people of faith, “for we walk by faith and not by sight!”   Not just any faith, but faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ -      “my” Savior - “my” Lord - “my” shepherd!

Do you have that security?  I pray that you do!

“The LORD is ‘my’ shepherd; I shall not want…yea, 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.” - Psalm 23

Pastor Rodney

“The Leading of the Shepherd”

The bible exhorts us “to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”  Mercy and grace has brought us another year - 2022!

For those of us that are fortunate enough to go into another year, I pray that we seek wisdom, not just any wisdom but wisdom that comes from knowing and following the LORD God through His word and His Son - Jesus - “for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

The covenant God of the Bible - the LORD God, desires us to know Him in a personal way.  Not just as Savior and Lord, but as “shepherd.”  Because we have this personal relationship, we listen to His voice (via His word and the Holy Spirit).  Jesus, as our shepherd, leads us to rest (“green pastures,” “still waters”), restoration (“restores my soul” - repentance) and righteousness.  King David, the author of Psalm 23 did not always possess this rest.  He admitted as he cried out in psalm 55, “oh, that I had wings like a dove!  I would fly away and be at rest.”  But David painfully learnt that he could not get away from his pain and hurt by running away - your pain will always meet you there.  Instead, David learnt to follow the leading of the shepherd of his soul, because only He could “make him lie down in green pastures; lead him beside the still waters; restore his soul; lead him to the right path of righteousness” (cf. Psalm 23: 2-3).

Some of you want to run away from 2021.  Some are you may still be running from God.  Some of you may be trying to run away from hurt, pain, disappointments or problems.  God knows getting away or running will not solve your problems - you must face them!  But you do not have to face them alone if you know Jesus as “your” shepherd!  Quit running, listen to the shepherd’s voice and He will give you the rest that our soul longs for!

“Come to Me…I will give you rest…you will find rest for your souls.” - Jesus

Happy New Year!  I pray that you go with Jesus into 2022!

Pastor Rodney

“The Satisfaction of the Sheep”

What do you want for Christmas?  Your age and current circumstance in life will most likely determine your answer.  All my grandchildren told me what they want, and I would love to give them all that their heart desires.

I remember growing up when there was a Sears and Penny’s catalog and I would circle more items than I could possibly play with or use.

As an adult my wants have a bigger price tag, wants mind you, not needs.

I will gladly give up my wants to see my children and grandchildren happy and healthy.  But receiving all our wants cannot make us happy.  How much is enough?  “I want” can imprison a person.  The bible reminds us that “one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”  The Apostle Paul said, “…I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.”  The LORD of psalm 23 desires to give each one of us this contentment that Paul possessed!  The LORD is my shepherd, therefore “I shall not want!”  If the LORD is your shepherd you have God’s provision!  “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus!”  The LORD of psalm 23 is the shepherd of psalm 23 and He gives His sheep “satisfaction” as they journey through this life.

I will not always be around for my children and grandchildren, nor can I live their lives for them, but I pray that the LORD of psalm 23 will be their shepherd and that they will listen to His voice all the days of their life!  

“The LORD is ‘my’ shepherd; I shall ‘not want!’” 

I pray this Christmas, if you haven’t, that you will receive Jesus Christ not only as your Savior and Lord, but come to know Him as your shepherd! 

Merry Christmas!

Pastor Rodney

Evangelical Christians would agree that “Christ” is the “reason for the season”, or put another way, “Jesus is the subject.”   Although Jesus is the subject, “mankind” is the object of His love - “For God so loved the world that He gave…” (John 3:16)   Our appropriate response should be like that of the wise men - “…and fell down and worshipped Him..they presented gifts to Him.” (Matthew 2: 11)  Christmas is a time of receiving and giving.  I can remember growing up as a young boy getting so excited about the gifts under the tree.  There was always one particular gift that I was hoping for - a new set of toy cap guns!   Now, as I am approaching “60” years of age, I still have the same excitement for Christmas (although I no longer get my toy cap guns!?).  But, I now realize the greatest gift is giving of one’s self - that is, one’s “presence!”  It is not so much the tangible gifts or even the meals we share, but each others “presence” that is so priceless!   You may no longer have the opportunity to enjoy a certain loved ones presence now because they have passed on or due to health related issues.   But, the “Hope” of the gospel is that Jesus is coming back again and we will be reunited again with all those who have died in Christ and He is going to make all things new!  So make sure you have received the greatest gift of all - eternal life through Jesus Christ, and in return, give Your Greatest Gift - “You!”  Merry Christmas!

Pastor Rodney

When we were children nothing could dampen the joy and expectation of Christmas!  Now that some of us are older, not so much, especially once we’ve suffered loss.  If you have children or grandchildren they help keep the flame alive because you see in them the joy you once had and/or their joy becomes your joy.  But even that joy can diminish over time.

The only lasting joy is the one we have in Jesus.  In fact, the greatest present you can give your loved ones, family and friends is the joy, the satisfaction and the security you possess in Christ Jesus!

Do you possess these attributes?  They can if you possess Him!

The LORD of heaven and earth desires that you know Him, not as a “genie in a bottle” where you get your three wishes and then put Him back in the bottle, but a real relationship, that of the metaphor of a shepherd.

The LORD of psalm 23 wants you to depend upon Him as your shepherd.  The LORD of everything, the ‘I AM’ has come to you not only as Savior, but as a shepherd that has given His life for you so that you might possess heaven and that you may be satisfied in Him (heaven possesses you!).  So that in return, in the present, you might follow His leading, His voice for your security and look to the future He has prepared for you!

Do you know the LORD of psalm 23?  Do you know the shepherd of psalm 23? Then you know the satisfaction of being His lamb and your satisfaction is in following His leading.  And because you follow Him you can experience the security knowing your present, future and eternity is secure in Him!  Can you truly say “The LORD is my shepherd?!”  If so, praise the Lord!  If not, you can this moment!  Don’t let this moment pass you by.  Come to Jesus by faith and come to truly know Him as your shepherd.  And “yea, 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…surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever!” - Amen!

Pastor Rodney

The LORD of Psalm 23 is the great “I am” (Yahweh)!  The “I am” is always in the present!  The LORD who made the universe and everyone in it is a personal God, that is why He came in the flesh, God incarnate - Jesus!

Advent is a time to celebrate and a time to prepare.  As Christ followers we celebrate the first coming of Christ and we prepare for His coming again!  Yes, Jesus came and is coming again!  How do I know? - His written word declares it!

But in the meantime, I am trusting Him as “my” shepherd!

The LORD is “my” shepherd therefore I’m learning to be content.  As “my” shepherd He “leads me to green pastures and beside still waters” so that my soul will be restored.  As “my” shepherd He leads me to a right way to live (righteousness), if I will only listen to His voice and follow Him - if He is truly “my” shepherd, I will!  As “my” shepherd, though I may “walk beside the valley of the shadow of death” I have nothing to fear because He is with me from the cradle to the grave and all in between.  Though I have enemies and an enemy of my soul, as “my” shepherd He has given me His Holy Spirit so that I might experience joy to overflowing and experience true peace, peace that surpasses all understanding.  As “my” shepherd I can recognize His goodness and mercy to me as I journey through this life with all its valleys and mountains.  And when this life ends as I know it, because He is “my” shepherd in this life, I have the promise of eternal life and a place in His eternal home - because He promises as “my” shepherd. 

“Covenant LORD, the great ‘I am’ help me to see you as ‘my’ shepherd.”

“Help me Jesus to hear your voice among all the noice of this life and to truly follow you!  May I truly experience ‘The LORD as my shepherd!’”

Do you know the LORD of psalm 23?  Is He “your” shepherd?!

Pastor Rodney

Attitude of Gratitude - I am “blessed!”

It’s hard to believe we are entering into Thanksgiving already with Christmas just around the corner!   It feels like we just had summer and now entering into winter.  Somewhere along the way it feels like we skipped spring and fall (key word “feels”)?!  How we feel is not always reliable.  Our emotions are on the mountain top one moment and the next in the valley.  The holidays are not always filled with good feelings either, due to in part our past, present state or our lose of loved ones.  For those that fight depression the holidays are especially hard.  But whether you fight depression or not, we tend to focus on the negatives in our life, or what we don’t have or are missing.  Instead we should focus on the positives, or what we do have like: food, water, shelter, clothing, a warm bath, family, our health, etc…But even these things can be taken in a moment. 

One of the many delusions of our day is what it means to be truly “blessed.”  There is the worlds view and then there is the view of the Savior of mankind - Jesus.

 Jesus knowing what was ahead for His disciples, and us, He set down with them the Bible says in Matthew chapter 5 and taught them the true meaning of the word “blessed” (Greek makarious - meaning “Happy”, “to be envied”, “a declaration of blessedness”).  Jesus said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit…those that mourn…the meek..those who hunger and thirst for righteousness…the merciful…the pure in heart…the peacemakers…those who are persecuted for righteousness sake…when all kinds of evil spoken against you falsely for My sake…”   Jesus says, “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven!”  You see, true blessedness focuses on the “BIG” picture -  an eternal perspective.  We are all fast approaching eternity and the time to prepare is NOW!   Only as we have an eternal perspective can we truly experience happiness in this life.  “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.”

I pray that you experience a “Blessed” Thanksgiving this year!

And “the LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.” (Numbers 6: 24-26)

Pastor Rodney

I am a male.  Not just because I identity as a male.  Not just because my birth certificate or drivers licenses indicates that I am a male, but because seven weeks into fertilization in my mother’s womb, creator God made me a male.  I “was” a sinner not just because I am part of the fallen race of Adam, but also because I willfully sinned against God and His word.

I am now saved, a saint, part of the royal priesthood of God.  A child of God and part of the eternal family of God!  Not because of anything I have done but because I received, by faith the “cure” for sin - Jesus! 

I received Christ as my Savior!  He has saved me from the penalty of sin - eternal death.  But it doesn’t stop there.  I not only received by grace the cure for the penalty of sin, but also by faith received the cure from the power of sin - Jesus!  He is savior and Lord!  I now identify myself as a “Christian.”  Meaning of “the party of Jesus” -  a “Christ -one!”

I am a disciple of Jesus Christ - a lifelong learner and follower of Jesus!

 As Christ followers, we need to remember that for so many the only gospel they see and hear is our lives!  The Apostle Paul in Philippians reminds us of this when he writes, “Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ…”  (cf. Philippians 1:27)   No, we will never be worthy of salvation.  I am no more worthy of salvation today than when I first believed in 1977, but I am to walk “appropriately” - reflecting Jesus in my life for the sake of the Gospel!  We must examine ourselves daily and ask the question, “Does my everyday actions, attitudes and behavior advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ, or do they hinder the Gospel?”   Paul says in 2 Corinthians 3:2, “You yourselves are our letter…to be known and read by all.”  In other words, you and I are God’s love letter to the world!   What are we writing?!

73% of Americans identify themselves as Christian?  Does that 73% reflect Christ in their lives?  Can the world look at your life and say you are “Christian.”  Not because you identify yourself as a Christian, but because your lifestyle is a witness that you indeed are!

There are many delusions in our day.  Even the liberal state of the church at large is in delusion about many things.  Let us not have delusions about what the Bible says about the Christian - a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ!

Pastor Rodney 

“Thank You” to our veterans!  Thank you to all those men and women in uniform, past and present who protect the freedoms that we enjoy.  Not only protect but put their own lives in harms way for the benefit of all.   Jesus said, “greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s own life for his friends.” (15:13)

“No man can carry his love for his friend farther than this: for, when he gives up his life, he gives up all that he has.” (Clarke)

The root of mankind’s problem is sin - the sinful nature.  Yes, we are thankful and need our military, our police officers, to protect against the evils of mankind.  Yes, we need certain laws to help defend and protect.  But at the root of the evils of our day, past, present and future is sin.  We can’t write enough laws, we can’t legislate morality and ethics - people need a heart change!  Jesus came over 2,000 years ago not only to die for the sins of mankind but He rose again so that we might have eternal life and abundant life in the present!  The cure for sin, mankind’s greatest need, is Jesus!  Jesus came not only to save us from the ultimate penalty for sin, eternal death, but to save us from the power of sin in our lives!

“…sin lies at the door.  And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it.” (Genesis 4: 7b)  

The bible says “for since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection from the dead.  For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive!” (1 Corinthians 15: 21-22)

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” (2 Cor. 5:17)

I quote and use scripture a lot - why?  Because the word of God and the Spirit of God is the only thing that can bring salvation and real change!

You want change?  It must start with you and me.  Real change will only come about as we submit our lives (our wills) to the one, and only one, who can save our lives - Jesus Christ!  Jesus is the cure for mankind’s greatest need! 

Pastor Rodney

God said, “in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”

Mankind’s response - “took of its fruit and ate.”

Mankind’s consequent - “and he died, and she died.”

The history of mankind (Adam) reminds us all of the seriousness of disobedience (sin) to God’s word.  As I prepare to go to yet another funeral this week, I am reminded of the consequence of sin which is physical death.  We are all guilty, we are all born after the fallen image of Adam.  Romans 3:23 reminds us ‘for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” and that “the wages if sin is death.” (Romans 6:23a).  Death of a loved one, family or friend is so devastating, no matter the age or circumstance.  Jesus Himself wept when He witnessed the grief death brought.  But Jesus came to conquer the grave and death - praise God the mission was accomplished!  Although in this life it doesn’t seem so as we grieve for our loved ones, but, we do not have to grieve as those who have no hope - our hope is in Jesus and Jesus alone!   And yes, although the wages of sin is death, but, “the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord!” (Romans 6:23b)

Jesus came not only to save us from the ultimate penalty of sin (eternal death) but the power of sin.  The same grace that saves us from the ultimate penalty of sin, is the same grace that saves us from the power of sin in our lives.  The power of sin can, and must be broken!

Just as God warned Cain “…sin lies at the door.  And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it.” (Genesis 4: 7) 

It is said that “sin will take you farther than you want to go, keep you longer than you want to stay, and cost you more than you want to pay.”  One of the great delusions of our day is that we cannot live above sin. God told the women caught in adultery to “go and sin no more.”  God is not going to command us to do what He won’t empower us to do.  Peter reminds us that God has given us “all things that pertain to life and godliness.” (2 Peter 1: 3)  Another delusion of our day is how we define sin.  We like to repackage it, relabel it, redefine it but God clearly defines sin as going against Him and His word.  Jesus said, “if you love Me, you will keep My commands.”  Don’t believe the delusions of our culture about sin - but trust in the One whom cannot lie - God and His word.  Through Christ and His word you can be freed from the penalty and power of sin!

I am so thankful my loved one’s funeral that I will be attending this week knew Jesus as her Savior and Lord!  Yes, we will grieve, but not as those who have no hope!  Do you have that hope?  I pray that you do!  - Rodney

I don’t know about you, but these days I find myself continually grieved by those whom I love that are fighting health problems and facing death - and those that are around me, whom I love, that are being affected by their loved ones facing these issues of life.  And although I realize we are all in that “valley of shadow of death” that Psalm 23 speaks of, somedays it still doesn’t make it any easier.   But too, I realize that life is about death too, they both go together unfortunately in this life.  The Apostle Paul was always facing death, but it didn’t keep him from living to the death, sharing the gospel of a living hope in Jesus Christ!  That is why Paul could boldly say, “for I have not shunned to declare the whole counsel of God” even as he was facing death.  You see, Paul knew that God’s word was the only thing that could truly equip you for abundant living now, and prepare you for eternal life.  Peter lived this way as well, as he expressed in his epistle, “for this reason I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things, though you may know and are established in the present truth.  Yes, I think it is right, as long as I am in this tent, to stir you up by reminding you, knowing that shortly I must put off my tent…moreover I will be careful to ensure that you always have a reminder of these things after my decease.” (2 Peter 1:12-15)  Unfortunately we are living in a day, I believe, of being guilty of drifting away from God’s word.  I am determined, with God’s help, to be that watchman on the wall, sounding the trumpet of God’s word - in grace and truth.

For this reason, I feel compelled to address what I would call “The Great Delusions” of our present age.  We need a biblical perspective to setting the record straight.  This will be the first of a series of articles and messages that address what I believe to be the many delusions of our day.  This week looking at “The Great Delusion - Mankind.”  Genesis 5 sets the record straight, “…In the day that God created man, He made him in the likeness of God.  He created them male and female, and blessed them and called them Mankind in the day they were created.”  God never makes a mistake.  You are born into this world either male or female, no matter how you feel, no matter what the culture of our days says, no matter how you try to change your gender, God made you male or female -and that is a wonderful thing!  You are special.  You are fearfully and wonderfully made by your creator and He has blessed you as He has created you!

God loves you, don’t buy into this great delusion of our culture.  Church, hold your ground, in grace, but not at the expense of truth!  Heaven and earth will pass away, but God’s word will last forever!   Pastor Rodney

“Have you not known? Have you not heard?  The everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary.  His understanding is unsearchable.  He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength.” (Isaiah 40: 28-29)

Some would question with resent world events, “where is this God of the Bible?”  It does feel that God is silent at times in our lives.   Some want to blame God for all the bad in our world or say “this or that” is God’s judgement upon mankind.  To that I would echo those words by Jesus in Matthew 22, “you are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God!”  God’s judgment came over 2,000 years ago, “for God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son!”  There were some 400 silent years from the last Old Testament prophet prophesying of the coming of Christ before He came on the scene.  Isaiah prophesied 700 years prior to Jesus’ coming.

But He came and “by His stripes we are healed!”  Yes, we still live in a fallen world and bad things happen.  But Jesus came so that we might have life and have it more abundantly.  Jesus is coming again and He will make all things new!  But until then we have to continue to trust in His word!   As Joshua reminds us, “not a word failed of any good thing which the LORD had spoken to the house of Israel.  All came to pass.”

Our faith is not based upon feelings and emotions but upon the power of God and His word.  When God seems silent, or when the troubles of this life come pressing in, lean on God and His word - He will not fail.

“God’s word is Him speaking to us in written form.  Always available.  Never silent.”

“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast” (Hebrews 6:19)

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

Have you heard the saying, “If there is one thing we learn from the scriptures, it’s that we never place a period where God has placed a comma.”   This saying is meant to help us move forward.  The challenge is discerning God’s will in our life.  Life has a way of putting up many walls  in our life that seem to be a period, or end of story.  Walls might come in the form of sickness, addiction, divorce, loss, tragedy, age, unmet expectations, unfulfilled dreams or hopes - to name a few.  We become tired and the task to move forward seems impossible or hopeless.  We start wondering if God is sovereign (all-knowing, all-powerful, ever-present) and loving, then why am I encountering this wall?  I certainly don’t have all the answers, but one thing I do know is that the God of Adam and Eve, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Esther, Job, Ruth, Daniel, Lazarus (to name a few) is also the God of you and me!  We can read the rest of their story to encourage us.  In each example they came up against an impossible and hopeless situation.  In each example God turned a wall into a testimony!  “Greater is He who is within you then he who is in the world’; ‘If God is for me, who can be against me”;  “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”; “No weapon formed against me shall prosper!”  This is not positive thinking, this is the truth of our God and His word.

God is faithful to see you forward.  Keep your eyes on the author and finisher of your faith and your walls, like Jericho - will come tumbling down (cf. Joshua 6).  Focus on Him, not the wall!

“O soul are you weary and troubled?

No light in the darkness you see?

There's light for a look at the Savior

And life more abundant and free.

Turn you eyes upon Jesus

Look full in His wonderful face

And the things of earth will grow strangely dim

In the light of His glory and grace.”

Pastor Rodney

Courage - “mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear or difficulty.” 

If there was ever a time that we needed courage for the journey - it’s today!  I don’t have to tell you all the things that are challenging us today.  There are those obvious things that challenge us and those things that are not so obvious to others that maybe only we know.  But whether seen or unseen we realize we need courage to venture out, persevere or to be able to withstand the fears and difficulties that we face. Sometimes we feel that we are all alone to face them.  I can’t imagine journeying through this life without Jesus in my life.  But even as Christ followers we sometimes find it hard to muster up the courage we need to face our giants.

The bible is full of examples to encourage us to have “courage for the journey” - in life and death!  It’s not based upon feeling, emotions or human strength or wisdom but on the God of the Bible.  God has even commanded us to be “strong and courageous, do not fear or be afraid.”

God is most glorified in us when we are most dependent on His strength, not our own!  As followers of Christ we can stand upon the promises of God!  God’s word never fails.  A promise is only as good as its source.  We have all been the recipients of promises not kept, either intentionally or unintentionally.  But God never fails.  He promises He goes with us and before us and that He never leave us!  If you are feeling like you lack courage for what you’re facing, turn to Jesus, seek His face and His word and He will give you just what you need at your point of need - He is always just in time!  I love the old hymn “Standing on the promises” - “standing on the promises that cannot fail, when the howling storms of doubt and fear assail, by the living word of God I shall prevail, standing on the promises of God!”

“God hath not promised skies always blue - flower strewn pathways all our lives through - God hath not promised sun without rain - joy without sorrow - peace without pain.  God hath not promised we shall not know toil and temptation - trouble and woe - He hath not told us we shall not bear many a burden - many a care.  But - God hath promised strength for the day - rest for the laborer - light for the way - grace for the trials - help from above - unfailing sympathy - undying love.” - Annie Flint

Pastor Rodney

Joseph Jennings Tackett, lovingly know as just “Joe” passed away last Sunday, September 19th, 2021 - unexpectedly, at just 52 years of age.

Joe was not only my first cousin but a friend.  Joe was the father of my nephew (Nick) and niece (Jenna) whom I love.  The descriptive word penned by Jenna “gentle giant” fit Joe well.  Joe could be a force to be reckoned with but was a gentle soul, really just a softy.

I could never have dreamed my message last Sunday “The changing seasons of Life,” would be met with such a sudden change just a few hours after my message.  The news of Joe’s passing was hard. 

The text in the Bible, I had just expounded on in Ecclesiastes chapter three  “To everything there is a season, time for every purpose under heaven; a time to be born, and a time to die” was profoundly real, once again at that moment.  Nothing can truly prepare us for that news!  Jesus said that death is the last enemy.  It is indeed an enemy, one that we cannot defeat or handle the burden alone.  Death is that “thorn” that no prayer will ultimately make go away.   Jesus wept because of the grief death brought mankind.  Jesus came to defeat death and the grave!  Someday Jesus will usher in eternity for all eternity and time will stop as we know.  There will be no more death, no more pain, no more goodbyes - all things will be new!  But how do we go on in the meantime?  By wholly trusting in the Lord Jesus.  Jesus will not take the thorn of death away, but He promised “My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”

(2 Corinthians 12: 9)  Jesus said, “come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest…and you will find rest for your souls.”

(Matthew 11: 28)  Jesus is the great burden bearer - cast all your cares upon Him, because He does care for you!

“We fall - we break - we fail - but with Jesus - we rise - we heal - we overcome!”

Pastor Rodney

I’ve lived in Indiana my whole life.  Anyone who lives in the midwest knows that we get all the seasons: spring, summer, fall and winter.

When I was young I loved all the seasons - even winter!  I loved training outside in the winter - considered it a challenge that would make me tougher for the racing season, come spring and summer.  Now that I’m older - not so much!  I now dream of being on the beach, beside the ocean in the winter time (still dreaming)!  But as I am getting older, I not only appreciate the value in the seasons but I especially understand the faithfulness of God in the seasons, as penned in His word, “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.” (Genesis 8: 22)

The fall season officially begins September 22nd - my favorite time of the year, but dread what comes - winter!  But I will adjust and prepare the best I can for winter, knowing it will come - but only for a season - “this too will pass” - then lookout spring!

Life is a lot like our seasons.  We too have “changing seasons of life!”  The wisest man of all time came to that conclusion as he penned Ecclesiastes chapter three - “to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under the heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck what is planted…; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh…a time to gain, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to throw away;…a time of war, and a time of peace.”

The main theme of Ecclesiastes is “vanity” - meaning empty or purposeless.  Philosophy apart from God is vanity.  Mankind cannot be happy without God - without Jesus Christ mankind can never be satisfied!

Only as you and I view life through the lens of the Bible can we understand that all of life seasons are purposeful, even when we don’t understand - the good things and the not so good things.  The bible says that “we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8: 28)

Embrace your good season!  Don’t get discouraged in your bad season - “weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning!” (Ps30:5)

God is faithful, let Him use you in this season of life for His glory!

Pastor Rodney

Happy Grandparents Day (12th)!  It is well said that “our greatest blessings call us grandma and grandpa!”  Proverbs says “children’s children are the crown of old men, and the glory of children is their father.” (Prov.17:6)

Becky and I are blessed with four grandchildren - each one special and unique, or as the psalmist penned, “fearfully and wonderfully made!” 

I love my two children, but there is something extra special about grandchildren.  When I look at them they bring me pure joy!  I have said that “I would die for my grandchildren.”  Although that is a true statement, they don’t need me to die for them (Jesus did that, more importantly He rose again!), but they need me to live for them.  For me to truly live for them I must live for the Lord Jesus and walk in His ways!  When I see my grandchildren I know that I want to spend eternity with them some day!

As I ponder grandparents day on the weekend of remembering 911, I am saddened by those that did not have a chance to see their children, grandchildren, family or friends again. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those that have lost loved ones and friends.  But the gospel of Jesus Christ is the gospel of hope - for today, tomorrow and beyond the grave!  Jesus’ greatest desire is that we will all one day be with Him and one another of all eternity!  But we must follow after Him now - “if the heart is joined to God, the feet will follow hard after Him (Spurgeon). 

Most parents want to give the very best to their children.  The bible suggests that the best legacy that we can give our loved ones is the kind of life we live.  A godly character is the most precious gift that we can give.

History tells us that it is often the third generation that abandons the faith - we must pray for our children and grandchildren that the Lord will keep His hand of blessing on their lives!

“Blessed is every one who fears the LORD, who walks in His ways…you shall be happy, and it shall be well with you…the LORD bless you…all the days of your life.  Yes, may you see your children’s children!” (Ps 128)

Pastor Rodney

“Rest” - Happy Labor Day weekend!  Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions  and achievements of American workers. Labor Day weekend symbolizes the end of summer and is often celebrated with picnics, etc.,…and for many it means a day off from work.  A balance of work and rest is important.  Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each day.  Some need as few as 6 hours and many need 10 hours.  But 4 hours is said to not be enough to be mentally alert.  It is said that children, ages 6-12 need 9-12 hours of sleep and ages 13-18 need 8-10 hours of sleep.  How are you doing?  It is not only important to get daily rest, but it is Biblical to get a day of rest each week, not 24 hours of sleep, but one day to rest from your labor and focus on corporate worship. That is how God created us and He gave us the pattern way back in the book of Genesis chapter two. There is so much unrest in our world, I almost feel guilty as I gather my thoughts.  My heart and prayers continue to go out to those in our world who are suffering so much - my world is so small in the big picture!

That being said, I realize that I must more than ever, rely on God and His word.  God set a pattern for mankind to follow even as He foreknew their future.  The old covenant was a type or shadow of something better to come.  The overall theme of the book of Hebrews is “better.”  Better promises, better hope - “there remains therefore a rest for the people of God!”(Hebrews 4:9)

The “better” in found in Jesus Christ!  He will provide you rest in the midst of trials and persecution.  Not just world events but everyday life can rob us of this rest the Bible speaks of.  Yes, we need physical rest but spiritual rest of the soul is the better.  Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden…and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11: 28)

Our physical location and circumstances don’t necessarily provide or keep us from true rest because only Jesus can provide us rest in the present, regardless of our location or circumstance - “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face; and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.”

“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)

Pastor Rodney

“But the day of the Lord will come…” - 2 Peter 3:10

“Advent” - the coming of Christ.  This is a past, present and future reality!  Past - Jesus came in the flesh.  Present - Jesus can dwell in you, via the Holy Spirit.  Future - Jesus is physically coming again at the end of time as we know it.  Jesus told us there would be signs of His coming again and the end of the age.  He told us that many of the things we are now experiencing are only “the beginning of sorrows.” (cf. Matthew 24)   You may find yourself currently in a good place in life.  You may currently be in a tough time right now or somewhere in between.  But the reality is that all of mankind is in a hopeless situation without Christ.  Jesus came to bring hope to the hopeless.  The Gospel is indeed good news!  The bible says that God is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”  The bible says that Jesus came to save us from our sins - mankind’s greatest need.  “…and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” (cf. Matthew 1:21)

Without the forgiveness of your sins you are in a hopeless state.  Jesus brought hope - hope for today, tomorrow and beyond the grave.

The bible says that nature itself is yearning for Christ’s return (cf. Romans 8: 18-22) when He will make ALL things new!

Jesus - the birth of “Hope!”  I pray you possess the hope Jesus brought!

“What a pleasure in life it is bringing!  What assurance and hope ever bright!  O what rapture and bliss are awaiting, when our faith shall be lost in the sight!  Tis a kingdom of peace, it is reigning within, it shall ever increase in my soul; we possess it right here when He saves from all sin, and t’will last while the ages shall roll.”

“Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” - It’s closer than you think! 

Pastor Rodney

My weekly pastor’s desk has always been written in such a way as to correspond with the coming Sunday’s message.  This Sunday I’ll finish preaching through 2 Timothy, last of an eleven week series. 

As I starting pondering over the text (2 Timothy 4: 1-8) and preparing for this week, my thoughts, heart and prayers were drawn to the many tragic things that have taken place this week: earthquake in Haiti - killing thousands; Taliban takeover of Afghanistan; a mother/daughter’s death in car accident traveling to first day of college; four young teens killed in traffic accident on their way to one last trip to the ocean before beginning school!   Listening to the tragic news unfolding, I  questioned - Lord, should I be preaching on this text?!  As I begun to exegesis the text (interpretation of the text), I had my answer -yes.

The setting of 2 Timothy is Paul in a Roman prison awaiting his execution and fellow followers of Jesus enduring persecution outside.  And what is Paul’s focus?  The gospel - preach the word, in season and out of season! 

Certainly this was out of season for Paul and the gospel.  These were not favorable circumstances, humanly speaking, for the gospel.  But Paul as he was sitting in that cold, damp cell awaiting execution, understood there was a greater spiritual reality - Paul new that people were going into an eternity lost without Jesus Christ!  Paul reminds us that it is “the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead.”  Jesus said, “do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.  But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 11:28).

None of us know how our life on earth will end, we only know that it will come one day and that we need to be ready!  I feel so helpless of the tragedies that are going on in our Nation and world, but I can pray!  I can witness.  I can preach the good news of Jesus Christ in good times and not so good times!  As follower’s of Jesus Christ you and I too can stand upon His promises “but the Lord stood with me and strengthened me…the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom (2 Timothy 4: 17-18).

“To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!”

“The Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.  Grace be with you. Amen.”

Pastor Rodney

Life is short.  The bible says that “the days of our lives are seventy years; and if reason of strength they are eighty years…so teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90: 10-12).

A huge part of that wisdom is to live out our lives in a manner that is pleasing to God, in whom we will all give an account to some day.

Proverbs reminds us that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (9:10).  It starts with “salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus!”  The greatest wisdom of all is to realize our desperate need for Jesus!  The bible says “as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God” (John 1: 12).  At the inception of that “new birth” we have new meaning and purpose!  Yes, we will still suffer persecution and have trials and things that will shack us to our very core - but we have Christ - therefore we can endure!  But God wants us to do more than endure, He wants us to thrive!  To thrive even in the midst of hardships.  The apostle Paul is a great example of this.  He was not a “super christian,” he was like you and I.  But he filled his heart with the word of God and invested in the eternal, everlasting Kingdom of God and THRIVED!  The late Rev. Billy Graham said, “The Spirit of God takes the Word of God and makes the child of God.”  The child of God and the word of God should be inseparable.  Not only for faith, but for practice - for manner of life!  The bible says that “blessed is the man (child of God) who delights and meditates on His word.  He/she shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither (cf. Psalm 1: 1-3).  Along that same thought Jeremiah reminds us in chapter 7, “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, and whose hope is the LORD.  For he will be like a tree planted by the waters…and will not fear when heat comes…will not be anxious in the year of the drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit” (17: 7-8).

I don’t know about you, but I am tired of enduring, I want to thrive!  

“Lord Jesus, help us to thrive in these last days!”  Amen 

Pastor Rodney

Are we living in the last days?   Depends on your definition and perspective of last days.   A ten your old verses a ninety year old might have a different perspective, although no guarantee the ten year old will outlive the ninety year old.  Your perspective might be different for those given a terminal illness verses those given a clean bill of health.  Your perspective might be different if you’re in the valley going through a very difficult time verses those currently on the mountain top.

All through time there have been biblical events and present day events that would lead one to believe those events triggered the sign of the last days.  Quit honestly, every generation has had those that believed they were living in the last days.  In reality, we are all living in the last days.  We are all in that “valley of the shadow of death” that the palmist of Psalm 23 speaks about.  In light of eternity our time here is very brief, but a vapor, the Bible says.

But I think we all wonder if we are that generation that will be alive when Jesus comes back?  The disciples themselves asked Jesus “what will be the sign of Your coming, and the end of the age?” (cf. Matthew 24)

Jesus responded in that passage that there would be signs of His coming but said “not to be troubled; for all these things must take place, but the end is not yet…all these are the beginning of sorrow.”  Jesus was also very clear “but of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven but My Father only.”   Are we living in the last days? - maybe - maybe not, we simply do not know for sure, but it sure seems like it when you see all that is going on in our culture today.  Paul gives us some further signs of the times in 2 Timothy chapter 3, but we still really don’t know.  How do I end this lengthy post?  I would encourage us all to live every day to the fullest.  To live every day as if it may be your last, because it just might be.  Most importantly, I would encourage us to live in light of eternity - living every day knowing “whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s” (cf.  Romans 14: 8-9).  Do you know?

Pastor Rodney

“If you want to change the world, start by making your bed,” quote by retired Admiral William McRaven, formal Navy seal, as he addressed a graduating class.  His speech is one of the most inspirational and motivating speeches I have every heard.  It has some biblical basis, even if not intended.  Paul in his letter to Timothy uses the example of a soldier when comparing the Christ follower.  To be a soldier one must have discipline, determination, obedience and purpose - a “I will never give up” attitude!  The training is hard and meant to prepare you for the real thing!  Salvation is not based on works or legalism but still calls the “good soldier of Jesus Christ” to a disciplined life with the goal in mind - “a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master.” (cf. 2 Timothy 2: 21)

Just as there are things that can hinder or advance the soldier and the mission, there are those things that can hinder or advance the mission of the Christ follower and the work of God’s church.  We too, are called to change the world - “go make disciples!”  It’s usually the little things that hinder or advance that calling.  Paul gave further instructions of grace in the second chapter of Timothy to help advance the gospel.  He reminds us not to strive about words to no profit.  To shun and avoid foolish and ignorant disputes. To quit quarreling and to depart from iniquity.  All these things are not befitting of a Christ follower and hinder the gospel from advancing.  Instead Paul says focus on what really matters - the truth of God’s word.  God’s word is the only sure and solid foundation - for life and death!  God’s word says to “pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those that call on the Lord.”   God’s word says not to avoid the truth but, “in humility, correct those who are in opposition.”  Why?  So that they might come to their senses and repent!   God help us to never hinder the gospel, in word or deed, but instead make every effort to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ, in word and deed - even in the seemingly little things!

Pastor Rodney

“Be strong!”  God said, “I am sending you.”  Moses’ response, “Who am I…what shall I say…suppose they will not listen…I am slow in speech…send someone else.” (cf. Exodus 3)

God said, “ You mighty man of valor!”   Gideon’s response, “my clan is the weakest…I am the least!” (cf. Judges 6)

Caleb at eighty-five years old, said, “I am strong…now therefore, give me this mountain!”

David, a little shepherd boy stood against Goliath.  Goliath looked at him with distain for he was only a youth and Goliath was a seasoned warrior!  David acknowledged “the LORD does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD’s, and He will give you into my hands!” (cf. 1 Sam.)

The Apostle Paul, as he was sitting on death role, instructed/encouraged fearful Timothy to “be strong!” (cf. 2 Timothy 2)  Maybe I don’t feel strong.  Maybe I don’t measure up to the task.  Just maybe, I don’t want to be strong.  Maybe I’m tired of being strong!  That’s ok, because it is not your strength, but the strength available through grace in Jesus Christ.

Jesus said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)

You see, it not’s about you and me, it’s about being faithful to the gospel!

In the examples above, and all the examples in the Bible, the men and women that God used came to understand this.  The salvation available to all mankind was greater than themselves!  Greater than their feelings!  Greater than their emotions!  Greater than their hardships! 

 Is there not a cause church!?  In Paul’s letter to Timothy, and to you and me, he used the examples of the soldier, the athlete and the farmer to drive home the point of the need for the Christ follower to stay focused and to maintain a sense of purpose and obedience -  “Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory”

Pastor Rodney

The bible encourages the church in 2 Timothy to “hold fast the pattern of sound words!”

The “true church of God” are all those born again, those redeemed by the blood of the Lamb!

Well, to hold fast there are some things we need to let go of first, such as:

A pattern of binging on the news; conspiracy theories; give politics a rest; our neglect of the bible; more concerned who is in office than who is on the throne; past hurts; unforgiveness; gossip… “let us lay aside every weight, and sin which so easily ensnares us!” (cf. Hebrews 12)

“Let go” of these things and instead “hold fast” to the pattern of sound words.  In other words be “faithful to the truth” - God’s truth - the whole counsel of God’s word as penned in the cannon of scripture, Genesis through Revelation.  As Titus puts it, “holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict…not giving heed to fables and commandments of men who turn from the truth.” 

 “Hold fast” to the Holy Spirit who dwells in you - “or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?  For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. (1 Corinthians 6: 19-20)

“Hold fast” to true believers in the faith.  As Hebrews puts it “and let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” (10: 24-25)  

“Hold fast” to the Day of the Lord!  Titus reminds us Jesus’ return is the believers blessed hope - “looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ!” (cf. 2: 13)

Church - “Let Go” and “hold fast!” 

Pastor Rodney

Saul met the risen Savior on Damascus road and he never was the same again.  Not just in name only (Paul), but in every aspect of his life.  The gospel, the good news truly transformed and “shaped his life” - forever!

Now Paul, once Saul, saw God as the Lord of every circumstance.

He recognized that the power of God to save him, was the same power that sustained him in life and ministry and called him to holy living - not just in word or deed but in attitude!

Even his attitude toward his sufferings had changed!  By God’s continued grace the Lord’s purpose for him was greater than his suffering.  God had called him to the gospel and he never regretted nor was ever ashamed of answering that call.   For he new the gospel was “the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes!”   Jesus Christ abolished death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel!  Paul said I know whom I have believed and “am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day!” (cf. 2 Timothy 1: 8-12)

I am persuaded today more than ever before that “He is able!”

The gospel is bigger than me.  The gospel is bigger than you.  Keep your eyes on the mission of the good news of Jesus Christ!  Let the same power of God that saved you shape your attitude and perspective in and through all things!

Is your attitude shaped by the gospel?  It can be - just summit to Him!

Pastor Rodney

“I thank God, whom I serve with a pure conscience, as my forefathers did…,that I may be filled with joy, when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you…” (cf. 2 Timothy 1:3-7)

Happy Independence Day!  - “A call to remembrance of our heritage and faith!”  I, for one, am thankful for my country.  I am thankful for the freedoms that I enjoy and take part in - my Independence!  I am thankful for the church of God reformation movement.  I am thankful for my faith in the God of the Bible, and the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal savior and Lord!

I am thankful for the rich heritage of my “faith” and “country.”  I am thankful for my dual citizenship - citizen of America and citizen of heaven!

From the Declaration on July 4th, 1776 to the present day, American Independence has been an annual celebration - celebrating the birth of the United States, and honoring God’s role in its formation. Yes, America has a christian heritage.  For over two centuries, America’s presidents have acknowledged a belief in God, looked to Him for guidance and credited Him for His blessings!  “In God We Trust” is America’s official national motto, with variants “In God is our Trust” from America’s national anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner.”  The fundamental basis of this Nation’s law was given to Moses on the Mount.  The fundamental basis of our Bill of Rights comes from the teachings which we get from Exodus and Matthew, from Isaiah and the Apostle Paul.

“Therefore,” as Paul said, “I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you…for God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1: 6-7)

Never forget your rich heritage as a christian nation.  Place your faith in the God of the Bible and in the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord.  It is by God’s word that we all will judged by in the final day!

Happy Independence Day!

Pastor Rodney

The Apostle Paul encourages us to “be watchful in all things, endure afflictions,…fulfill your ministry.” (cf. 2 Timothy 4: 5)

Paul penned this letter during his second Roman imprisonment -knowing he would soon be executed.  Other than Jesus Himself, no one else has gone through afflictions like Paul.  Yet here he is encouraging the church to stay focused on their mission!  Jesus said, “I will build ‘My’ church and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it!”   Usually the enemy of our soul doesn’t storm the gates of our hearts, but does it subtly - Solomon warns “the little foxes that spoil the vines.”

That’s why we must stay watchful (redeeming the times) and fulfill our ministry despite the afflictions!  By the grace of God, I am even more determined today than ever to not give up and fulfill the ministry God has entrusted to me.

And I encourage you to do the same!  If you are born again by the spirit of God, that same spirit will enable you!  You are the “beloved!”  God says I have chosen you for the ministry of reconciliation.  Mankind desperately needs reconciled back to God through a personal relationship with His Son - Jesus!   Beloved, the will of God is for you to fulfill the ministry He has entrusted to you and to not give up!

Beloved, “Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.”

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever.  Amen.” (Jude 24-25)

Pastor Rodney

Father’s and Mother’s day have always been a more difficult time for me to preach.  I’m not sure why?  I am fortunate to still have both of my parents, whom I love and I know that they love me.  I am fortunate too to have good memories of my childhood.   So why the difficulty?   Maybe its because not everyone still have their parents?  Maybe its because not everyone has good memories of their childhood.  Maybe because I know that not all have a good relationship with their parents?  Maybe its because not everyone is a father or mother and I feel this is a time that excludes them?  Maybe its because I feel I’ve fallen short as a father at times, not loved perfectly  - made my mistakes along the way?

Not sure exactly why the difficulty?  One thing I do know for sure though is that the God of the Bible is the perfect parent - our heavenly Father.  I know that He loves perfectly and makes no mistakes - no, not one.

I know that family is important to Him and that He designed and instituted the family structure. I know that we are to love one another “unconditionally” and that all lives matter to Him!  I know that He has instructed children to “obey their parents.”  I know that He has commanded us to “Honor our father and mother.”  I know that He has instructed fathers to raise their children “up in the training and admonition of the Lord.” (cf. Ephesians 6: 1-4)   I know that we still love imperfectly but if we follow God’s instruction, and with His help, we can do better and be a better people for it - a people pleasing to God, which according to Solomon is the “conclusion of the whole matter!” (cf. Ecclesiastes 12: 13)

“For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named.” (Eph.3:14)

Happy Father’s Day!

Pastor Rodney

By faith I chose to believe God’s word.  From Genesis 1: 1, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”  To Revelation 22: 20, “surely I am coming quickly.”  And all in between:  Psalm 117: 2, “…and the truth of the LORD endures forever.”; John 1: 1, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” ;         John 3: 16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”  Faith grounded on God’s word is critical, for life and death - faith in who God is and who we are - “who am I?”

Often we define ourselves through our family, jobs, ministry, financial status, success, failure, appearance, what people think or say about us.  Viewing yourself as God sees you is what matters.  God says you are “fearfully and wonderfully made.” (cf. Psalm 139: 13-16)   The bibles says, “as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who are born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.”   Have you by faith, believed and received Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord?!  If so, God says you are born again - His son and daughter!   He says you are a new creation and that you have received His righteousness.  He says you are holy and sanctified.  He says you are the salt and light of the world. He says that you are now a part of a royal priesthood, a saint and no longer a sinner.  He says your name is written in the Lamb’s book of life.  He says you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you!  He says you are more than conquerers through Him who loved (you).   He says that nothing shall be able to separate (you) from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.  Greater is He that is you, than he that is in the world!

“Faith & Identity” is important as we find God in each step of this wonderful thing called life!   Faith in God and His word.  Faith in what He thinks and says about us (you).

“…walk in newness of life.” - your true identity!   And “reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord!”

Rodney

6-08-2021

Jesus said, “Heaven and earth will pass away but My words will by now means pass away.” (Matthew 24:35)  Truth matters, more importantly, truth as written in God’s word matters, and according to Jesus (the Word became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14)) is of eternal, everlasting significance.  It is when the Word of God and the Spirit of God comes together that lives can be transformed, from the inside out!  That transformation starts with the new birth (born of the spirit).  Jesus said you must be born again!  But the truth doesn’t stop there.  The truth is to continue on in our lives now (abides in us) and promises to be with us forever. (cf. 2 John 1:2)   This truth received brings about Grace, mercy and peace.  The truth of God is manifested outwardly in that “we love one another, and “that we walk according to His commandments.” 

(cf. 2 John 1:6)   Peter admitted in 2 Peter 3:16 that “some things are hard to understand.”  Yes, some things are hard to understand, but the essentials of salvation and what it means to be a Christ follower are not.  When we read the truth, hear the truth via preaching and practice the truth it frees us in an unexplainable way!  It brings reason to rejoice in all circumstances!  The greatest gift you can pass on to the next generation is God’s truth - in word and practice.  For the Word, God’s Word, is the only thing that is going to last.

“If you abide in My word, you are my disciples indeed.  And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” - Jesus  

And all God’s people said, “Amen, Amen!”

rodney

Memorial Day - a time to remember.  A time to remember those who gave their lives for the freedoms that we enjoy.  A time to remember loved ones, family and friends that have passed on recently and a long time ago.  A time to remember that there is life beyond the grave.  A time to remember “thus says the LORD; stand in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; then you will find rest for your souls.” - Jeremiah 6: 16

It is good, and needful, to remember - not so as to stay in the past, but to help us to live rightly in the present and stay hopeful of the future.  A hope not based upon human wisdom, but a sure and steadfast hope, based upon the solid foundation of God’s eternal word - the Bible.   “For this reason,” Paul  said, “I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things”

What was the reason? - “the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!”  What is the reminder? - the basics of the christian hope!

Robert Driskell said, “(one) reason our country’s moral climate is degenerating is the failure of Christians (christ followers) to be diligent in our walk with Jesus.”  There is some truth to that.  Can America rightly be called a Christian Nation?!  I can’t answer for America.  I can’t answer for those that have gone before me.  I can’t answer for you.  I can only answer for myself, but those that have gone on before remind me that I will have to give an answer someday to the only one that matters!  God’s word in that day will judge me and you.  We aren’t to live in fear but in obedience to His word.  And when we do, we can count on His promises!

“O Death, where is your sting?  O Hades, where is your victory?…but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15: 55-58)

Happy Memorial Day!  May we never forget!

God Bless and Godspeed! 

Just rodney

Happy Mother’s Day!  As we pause to “thank and honor” our Mother’s present and past, womanhood is under attack.  Mother’s and women in general are so vitally important and critical to our society and to God’s church.  From the very beginning God created male and female.  The bible says that “God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good.” (cf. Gen.1:31)

Jesus Himself was born of a woman (cf. Gal. 4: 4).  The Savior of the world could have come some other way, but God chose to send through a woman - which is how all of us got here!  We are living in a day when our society is trying to redefine the sex’s.  Trying to redefine marriage.  Trying to redefine family.  God created us in His image and we will only survive and thrive when we live according to His design and not some distorted view of mankind - “who changed the truth of God for the lie…”(cf. Ro.1:25)

Throughout the Bible, we can find a variety of women who dealt with the  struggles common to womanhood, but none like we have today.

We live in that time when knowledge is increasing exponentially, but we are getting further and further away from God’s truth, not only as nation, but the church at large.  

In Galatians (4: 21-31) we read about two covenants, two women and two sons.  One son born via bondwoman according to the flesh (legalism) and another son born via a freewoman through the promise (grace) - “which things are symbolic.”  Jesus said you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.  Grace did not do away with the law, but fulfilled the law.

The law says “honor your father and mother.”  Grace says “love God” and “love others” which is the fulfillment of the law.  How do we love God? - by living out our lives according to His word.  How do we love others? - by giving them the truth of God’s word in love.  The motive for sharing God’s truth should be because we love all people.  The truth is that we must live according to God’s standard by His grace.  Only by living life by God’s design will we find true joy, happiness, contentment, security and freedom!

Ladies - “Thank You” and “God bless you!”

“Lord, bless our home, protect our home; let it be a refuge in this world of sin.  Lord, reign within, keep us strong and true.” (Lyrics, bless our home)

rodney

Essential Theology for Troubling Times

Tithing and Stewardship

From the very beginning, humankind was created to be steward’s of God’s creation.  The bibles says in Genesis 1:26, “Then God said, ‘let us make man in our image, according to our likeness, let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.”

Stewardship is managing all of our resources for His glory.  I did not truly understand the biblical principle of tithing until I understood the biblical principle of stewardship.  Once I recognized that God is the provider of all that I am or have, and that He alone is the one who sustains my life, I responded with all my life - not just my finances.

To be a disciple of Christ it to be committed to Him.  “I surrender all” - I surrender my time, talent, finances - everything.  Knowing that God is the provider, it is my responsibility to manage, as steward, for His glory and to further His kingdom work here on earth - laying up treasures in heaven!

Tithe, a tenth part, offered to God.  Proverbs 3:9 instructs us to “Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the first fruit of all your increase.”

Malachi 3:10 challenges us to “bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house, and try Me now in this, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it.”

This is the one place in scripture where God says to ‘test Him!”  God does not need my money; it is all His anyway.  What God wants is for me to trust Him, by faith, to meet all my needs - to be totally dependent upon Him.  I give back to Him a tenth to be used in His house (where I regularly worship and serve).

We are not to give out of legalism, of vain glory, or out of a grudged heart, but out of the abundance of our heart - in gratitude to our heavenly Father, and our Savior and Lord - Jesus Christ! 

rodney

Essential Theology for Troubling Times

The Second Coming

“For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with a voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God.  And the dead in Christ will rise first.  Then those who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.  And thus we shall always be with the Lord.  Therefore comfort one another with these words.” - 1 Thessalonians 4: 16-18

Our Savior and Lord is coming again - a second and final time.  This should be encouraging to His church - an event that we should be looking forward to with great expectation!  What a homecoming that day will be, to be with all the old and new testament saints, to be with loved ones who died in Christ - with all the redeemed!   The bible reminds us too that all things will be made new; there will be no more sorrow, no more pain, and no more death! (cf. Revelation 21:4)

The second coming is not going to be some kind of secret entrance from our Lord either.  Scripture tells us that every eye will see Him (cf. Rev.1:7) and it will happen in a twinkling of an eye (cf. 1 Cor. 15:52).  No one knows, Jesus says, when that day is coming, but He warned us to be ready! (cf. Matt. 24:44)  As a part of being ready, we are called to be the people God has called us to be and we should be diligent about fulfilling the great commission - “making disciples” of Jesus Christ!  We are to focus on being His ambassadors and witnesses to a lost world.

Although it will be a great day for His church, it will be an equally terrible day for the unredeemed.  Like in the “days of Noah” there will be no second chances.  All opportunities to accept God’s free gift of salvation will be over and “anyone not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire” (Rev. 20:15).

May the church of the living God be found busy “seeking and saving the lost” at His return!

rodney

Essential Theology for Troubling Times

The Kingdom of God

“Now when He was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God does not come with observation; nor will they say, ‘see here or see there!’  For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you.” (Lk 17: 20-21)

The kingdom of God is clearly spiritual in nature.  It is not an earthly geographical place in the future yet to be built; but it is the work of God, present and future.

The kingdom of God is a present work in that when you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord, and repented of your sins, you entered at that very moment spiritually into the kingdom of God via the new birth.  Jesus said in the gospel of Mark that “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand.  Repent and believe the gospel (1:15).  At that moment you repented and believed the gospel you became part of that eternal community - the family of God!

You became an heir of God; you received direct assess to your heavenly Father.  Now, via the Holy Spirit dwelling within, you can walk obediently to His word.  You can have joy and peace in your heart not matter what earthly circumstances bring.  God now, present tense, reigns and rules in your life - praise the Lord!

The kingdom of God is also a future work. In that God will call an end to time as we know it and usher in eternity for all eternity - all things will be made new.  Therefore, Jesus said not to worry, but instead “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)

“Tis a kingdom of peace, it is reigning within, it shall ever increase in my soul; we possess it right here when he saves from all sin, and twill last while the ages shall roll!”

rodney

Essential Theology for Troubling Times

The Authority of Scripture

The bible, sixty-six books contained in one, penned by forty different authors (“holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” - 2 Peter 1:21b), over fifteen hundred years with one central message - “…that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the scriptures.”

(1 Corinthians 15: 3b-4)

The bible is the only book in humankind’s possession that is literally life changing and transforming.  It is life changing and transforming because it is truly God-breathed, God’s living revelation (“for the word of God is living and powerful” - Heb.4:12) to humankind.  It is this God-breathed authorship that gives it the authority, not only for our faith, but also for our standard in everyday living.   The bible reminds us that “all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction.” (2 Tim. 3:16)

As Christ followers, we must always make sure that we are aligning ourselves with what God’s word tells us and not traditions or man-made rules.  God’s word is our final authority.  God’s word is indeed our plumb line (cf Amos 7:7), our standard to live and die by!

I love that old hymn,The church’s Jubilee, by Charles Naylor - “The bible is our rule of faith and Christ alone is Lord!”

Jesus reminds you and me that “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away!” 

rodney

Happy Easter!

“Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He ROSE AGAIN the third day according to the Scriptures.” (cf. 1 Corinthians 15: 3-4)

What does the resurrection of Christ mean to you personally?  How has it impacted your life?  Do you think and live differently in light of this fact?

Are you teaching your children the real meaning of Easter?  The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the reality and hope of our faith!  Without the resurrection we are dead in our sins!  The bible says, “if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins!…if in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.”(cf. 1 Corinthians 15: 17-19)

The bible reminds you and me in 1 John 5: 11-13, “…God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.  He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.  These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.”   Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die!”  Do you believe?!  

(cf. John 11:25-26)   When you believe, and “know Him” and experience “the power of His resurrection” - it changes everything - for life, death and eternity!  Roll away that stone of unbelief - and believe!  He is risen, He is risen indeed!

rodney

Essential Theology for Troubling Times

The basis for Christian Unity

A Christian, by definition, is one committed to Christ - a follower of Christ.

Therefore, Christian unity must be centered in Jesus Christ.

The reason Christianity cannot unite with “religions” and “cults” is because they deny the deity and purpose of Jesus Christ - He is the believers basis for oneness!

Within Christianity, we must not let our differences in “style” of worship and/or our likes or dislikes of “traditional” verses “contemporary” music, divide the church.  Jesus reminds us in Matthew 12:25 that “every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand.”

Only as we focus our eyes on “the author and finisher of our faith,” as we learn to walk in obedience to holiness life-style, and as we focus on the mission of the church can we fully realize - “the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace!”

“O brethren, how this perfect love unites us all in Jesus!  One heart, and soul, and mind we prove the union heaven gave us.” - Barney E. Warren

The Glorious Body of Christ!   Salvation - Holiness - Unity!

rodney

Essential Theology for Troubling Times

The Mission of the church

The Great Commission (cf. Matthew 28:19-20) given by Jesus Himself, is still the mission of the church - past, present, and future.  We are to “Go” and proclaim the good news of salvation - “for the Son of man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10)

When an individual accepts and receives the call of salvation by faith, we must help them become nourished and trained, not just in obedience of water baptism, but that they become fully committed followers of Christ, and “Go” themselves to make disciples.

Statistics tell us that 70% of Americans don’t exercise, 30% that do, only 10% exercise alone.  Why?  Because we all need accountability and encouragement.  This is not only a physical reality but a spiritual reality as well.

A disciple (mathetes), is simply a learner and follower of Christ (lifelong).

Discipleship is not a program, it’s a way of life.  Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ.”

The church must do a better job of making disciples, coming along side new believers via teaching, instructing, demonstrating and encouragement.

The mission of the church is also to demonstrate the compassion of Jesus by coming along side others via assisting in their emotional and physical needs.  One well said quote, “people do not care about what you know until they know you care.”  The bible defined biblical Christianity as, “pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.” (James 1:27)

The world around us must not only hear the gospel message, but the world must see a living example of that message being lived out by Christ’s body - the church!

rodney

Essential Theology for Troubling Times 

The nature of the church and church membership

When I think about the nature of the church, I cannot help but to stop and think about whose church it is - it’s God’s church (cf. Acts 20: 28b).

Christ is the head (cf. Ephesians 4:15) and church is the body of believers

(cf. 1 Corinthians 12:12). Therefore, the church must take on the nature of Christ - “holiness.”

Scripture tells us what kind of church Jesus is coming back for in Ephesians - “that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish” (5:27).  Since God is spirit, church membership is spiritual as well - through the new birth.  Membership is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ and God alone adds to His church (cf. Acts 2:47) -

“But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased.” (1 Corinthians 12:18)

We are not to rejoice because our name is written in the Sunday school class book, in the church record, or on the “roll-call” of eligible voters in its business meetings, but - “…rejoice because your names are written in heaven” - “rejoice that your name is written in the Lambs book of life” by virtue of the new birth! (cf. John 3:3)

rodney

“Essential Theology in troubling times”

Holiness

In simplest terms, holiness is the believer living out his/her life in obedience to his/her new nature and new identity in Christ.  The bible instructs us in 1 Peter 1:14-15, “As obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.”

When you answered the call to salvation, you were declared righteous before a holy God (first work of grace).  You were given a new nature and identity because of what Jesus Christ did on your behalf.  Sanctification, the second work of grace, is an act/process of being made holy which results in a changed life-style.  Holiness will produce the manifestation of the fruit of the spirit spoken of in Galatians 5 (verses 22 thru 25).

There is no such thing as a christian who continues/practices sin.  The bible is very clear that “…those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” (cf. Galatians 5: 19-21)

When one holds to the Theology of holiness (the doctrine of the Bible), some would say, “oh, you think you are holier than thou?” and I would reply, “no, but I have a perfection of intention.”  That is - I realize like the apostle Paul, “not that I have already attained, or am perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.” (cf. Philippians 3:12)

The doctrine of holiness is a serious matter, don’t take my word for it, take God’s word for it - “pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” (cf. Hebrews 12: 14)

Holiness is also obtainable, why else would the Lord command us to be holy?!

Holiness is also what is best for you and me, otherwise, God would not command it and Jesus would not have prayed that we would process it - 

“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.”  - Jesus (cf. John 17)

rodney 

“Essential Theology in troubling times”

Salvation

“What must I do to be saved? Salvation - from the latin word “salvatio,” means “safe, saved.”   “The state of being saved or protected from harm or a dire situation.”

Mankind must realize his/her dire situation - their desperate need to be saved. In Christian Theology, salvation means the deliverance from sin and its consequences.  Salvation is made possible by the life, crucifixion, death and resurrection of Jesus.

1 Corinthians 15: 3-4, “For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.”

John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believed in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

I thank God for simplicity of salvation.  God came to man in human form and delivered all who would believe from the penalty and power of sin through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.  

In response to that initial call of salvation, not only is mankind saved from the penalty of sin, but also receives a new nature and identity.  Mankind is no longer a member of Adam’s fallen race, but a member of Christ’s body!

Although this salvation is simple, it is also narrow; Christ alone is the way of salvation - “nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

“You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power;…worthy is the Lamb who was slain..Holy, holy, holy, Lord God almighty!”

rodney

“Essential Theology in troubling times”

Human nature and destiny

The bible says, “…we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath…” - “There is none righteous, no, not one” - “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”  Our society would have us to believe that mankind (male/female) is basically good.  I look at my life before Jesus with the realization that I did some “good things.”  Mankind is certainly capable of doing “good things”; we are after all, made in the image of our creator (God) and each one is fearfully and wonderfully made according to His word.  However, mankind is born with a flaw in his/her nature - sin; sin of the first Adam.  The bible reminds us therefore, “just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all mean, because all sinned.” (Romans 5:12)

Therefore, mankind’s eternal destiny (without Jesus) is spiritual death, not only is this eternal separation from God, but Revelation describes it this way - “Then death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire.  This is the second death.  And anyone not found written in the book of life were cast into the lake of fire.” (20:14-15)

I believe that only by understanding mankind’s nature and destiny can we truly realize - that ALL people “need the Lord!”

Just Rodney

16 February, 2021

“Essential Theology in troubling times”

The ordinances of Baptism, Communion, Feet Washing

“For grace you have been saved through faith, and not of yourselves; it is the gift of God” (Eph.2:8).   We should be clear that ordinances do not save us!  However, if we are being obedient to God and His word, we will observe these ordinances because our Lord Jesus Christ instituted them.

Ordinances are often explained as an “outward expression of the inward experience of grace.”

Baptism.  “When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water” (Matt.3:16).  As an adult, Jesus was baptized by immersion.  The believer (mature enough to make his/her own decision, not an infant and after repentance) is to follow in Jesus’ example.  Baptism is part of the great commission (Matt. 28: 19-20) and is symbolic in nature; the believer is identifying with Christ in His death, burial and resurrection - the old man buried and the new risen to a new life in Christ.  One needs only to be baptized once (in my opinion, preferably as closely to repentance as possible), but some have felt the need to do their first work over (Rev. 2:5).

Communion.  Our Lord and Savior, the spotless sacrificial Lamb of God instituted the Lord’s supper.  We (the believer, the church) should never forget the price paid for our salvation!  Jesus said, “take, eat; this is my body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of me” (1 Cor.11).

“This cup is the new covenant in my blood, this do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.”

Unlike baptism, we should take communion with regularity, but how often is not as important as why we take the elements of communion.  As often as we partake, we are to remember Christ’s broken body and His shed blood for us - ‘till He comes’ - come Lord Jesus come!

Feet washing.  “If I then, your Lord and teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet” (John 13).  Jesus, even though He knew His hour had come, took the form of a servant that demonstrated love, humility and servanthood.

Believers are to follow this ordinance instituted by our Lord and remember that we too are to have the spirit of servanthood.  Like communion, feet washing should be done with regularity; but sadly, out of the three ordinances, most believers and congregations do not observe it.  Those that do normally observe right before Easter on Maundy Thursday - with low attendance at that.

Believers are missing out on a blessing.  Jesus Himself said, “If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them” (John 13:17.

Just Rodney
2-09-2021

After six years of weekly pastor’s desk, this will be my last, due in part to my analysis of effort verses fruit.  As Christ followers we are all required to be fruitful.  We are all called after we have answered the call to salvation to do periodic honest self-examination of ourselves and ministry, seeking the Holy Spirits direction and ask ourselves the hard questions - individually and corporately as a church (i.e. body of believers).  Why do we do what we do?  Is it fruitful for the kingdom?

The Holy Spirit, in the life of the believer is essential in these troubling times!  You cannot, individually and corporately accomplish the mission without the spirits control, direction and empowerment.  Our partnership with the third party of the triune God, the Holy Spirit, is essential!

We must understand His work and experience His daily presence and empowerment in our lives.  It is the work of the Holy Spirit that convicts one of his/her sin and leads them to true repentance.  We first receive the Holy Spirit upon the new birth - born of the spirit!  It is an ongoing work of the Holy Spirit that sanctifies the believer and produces the fruit in our lives.  We must recognize our total dependence upon the work of the Holy Spirit to be effective for Christ in our world - our spheres of influence.

I believe the individual believer and the church at large is trying to accomplish the mission through human effort and power.  Yes, we have our part but it the Holy Spirit through us!  We must be diligent not to grieve the Holy Spirit through disobedience and sin in our lives.  Quit trying to redefine and rationalize sin, name it for what is it and repent.

God is not looking for talented, charismatic, gifted, talented, professional people - He is looking for “clean vessels!”  The Holy Spirit can only work though clean vessels.  “Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit…therefore glorify God in your body…” (1 Corinthians 6: 19)

I am not called to be the “cheerleader” but to proclaim the whole counsel of  God’s word - and to live it out in my own life.  The different roles of ministry is not “till death do we part!”  Our ministry may change and sometimes has too, but our mission remains the same individually and corporately.   Church, Jesus gave us the mission statement in Matthew 28, quit trying to redefine it!  Jesus gave us the ONLY WAY to fulfill the mission, in His own words, “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you SHALL BE WITNESSES…” (Acts 1:8)

It has been a pleasure sharing with you via the pastor’s desk these past six years.  I pray it may of helped someone.

God bless and Godspeed!  Just Rodney

“…We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness - …”

The Declaration of Independence, July 4th, 1776

I love my country!  I have been so blessed to live out my life here.  I am thankful for the men and women who have given their very lives to defend the freedoms that I enjoy.  I am equally thankful for those who continue to put their life on the line, domestically and abroad to ensure these freedoms endure.  But will these freedoms continue when we as a Nation systematically take the God of the Bible, that our forefathers and foremothers believed in, out of the very fabric of this great Nation?!  As much as I love my country, I love my Creator more - the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.  The God of the Ten Commandments - the God of the Holy Bible contained within the canon of inspired scripture - Genesis through Revelation.  The God revealed through the incarnation of His only begotten Son Jesus Christ!  Our founders believed this - and so do I.  But America - God will not be mocked.  The Bible says, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.”  Proverbs 14:34  

I may have to go through the fiery furnace, but as Shadrach, Meshach,and Abednego said, “…be it known to you, o king, that we will not serve your gods…” (Daniel 3: 18)   “The Lord our God we will serve, and His voice we will obey.” (Joshua 24: 24)   Church, lets be the people God has called us to be and obey His voice.  Church, lets pray for our leaders that they will return to the God of our forefathers - and listen to His voice!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

There is a saying that I’ve shared many times and will share again in this writing.  It says, “If God said it, I believe it, and that settles it!”  Before you say amen, the correct quote is, “ If God said it, that settles it, whether I believe it or not!”  Ok, now you can say Amen!

We are in the time I believe where knowledge has increased exponentially but we have strayed further and further from God’s truth!

I believe we are in that time that the Apostle Paul spoke of in 2 Timothy 4,

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teacher; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.”

It is critical, as Christ followers that we heed to sound theology and doctrine.  We need to stand firm on what we believe and know why we believe it!   We live in a time where right is wrong and wrong is right, according to the final authority - God’s written word, the Bible!

God desperately desires for mankind (man/woman) to know and follow the truth!  The writer of Hebrews reminds us of that!  God has spoke through His creation - nature itself.  God has spoke through the prophets, apostles and disciples.  God has spoke through Jesus Christ - God incarnate, the second person of the trinity!   Christ is the living word, and the Bible is the written word - the logos of God!

Jesus - God in the flesh, was divine and human (yet with no sin).

Jesus was often referred to as Prophet, Priest and King.

Prophets spoke the word of God - Jesus is the word.

Priests continually made offerings to God - Jesus was the once and for all offering.

Kings have ruled temporary kingdoms - Jesus is the eternal King of His eternal and everlasting kingdom - the kingdom of God!

Because of Jesus’ nature and role - you and I have hope for today, tomorrow and beyond the grave!  Jesus can sympathize with our weaknesses and was in all points tempted as we are (yet without sin).

So, “let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (cf. Hebrews 4: 15)

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

2020, what a year!?  Our lives have been turned upside down.  The world, our country and the church at large have been and continues to go through much change.  We have had a year of: fires; floods; droughts; riots; violence; killings; political unrest and uncertainty; Covid 19 pandemic just to list a few!   2021 started with my wife and myself testing positive with covid, we both had severe symptoms, but by the grace of God managed at home and stayed out of the hospital.  I know many were not as fortunate as us.

Where is God in all of this?  Has He turned a blind eye, deaf ear to what is going on?!  Has He given up on mankind (male/female)?!

Your answer to that depends on your understanding of the God of the Bible.  If we learnt anything in 2020 it should be: 1. Don’t rest your hope/faith in a political party (man or woman).  2.  The church must call people to a relationship with Jesus and get focused on the mission!

We need to think rightly about God.  We are very emotional and “feely” people.  But biblical faith is not grounded on emotion and feelings, but on sound doctrine -sound Christian theology!

God has not called all of us to be theologians (myself included) but He has called us to be students of His word!

It at starts with God - His nature and activity with mankind (male/female).

God comes to where we are and calls us to faith in Jesus Christ.  Theology is not just merely an object of study, but response to call of God in Christ, power of the Holy Spirit to bring about change in our world and conform to the will of God for our lives!

The late Gilbert Stafford put it this way, “If we are willing, God indwells us, empowering us to be and do what we are called to be and do!”

Yes, by God’s very nature He is still actively involved with mankind and always will be - present, future and in eternity!

“Essential theology for troubling times!”

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

Did you see it?   Did you see the astronomical phenomenon on December 21st of Jupiter and Saturn aligning together, the “Great conjunction?!”   The two planets came so close together that they formed a great light in the sky - appeared as “one brilliant star!”

This great astronomical phenomenon hasn’t happened in 400 years and not at night in 800 years!   Did you see it?!

I didn’t !?  I missed it!  I followed up seeing some great pictures on Facebook, but I missed seeing it with my own eyes!   How could I neglect to position myself to witness such a great event in my lifetime?!  - I don’t know!

Maybe I got distracted from all the negative going on in our world, country and the life of the church?  I am not sure how or why I missed it but my mind was obviously on something else, and I missed it!

There is a biblical account of Magi (astrologers) in the gospel of Matthew that had heard of and witnessed a similar astronomical phenomenon in their day that they did not want to miss.  These star “geeks” were not so much interested in the details of this astronomical phenomenon but in the one to whom this “star” would lead them to - the baby Jesus!  God incarnate.  God in the flesh who would come into our world, the one in which He created, to save humankind from their sins.

The long prophesied Messiah -the Christ - God’s anointed one - the savior of the world!

If you read the biblical account (Matthew 2) you will read they indeed were eyewitnesses of baby Jesus and they brought Him gifts fitting for a royal king!   Their presence and gifts were an act of worship to the savior of the world.  They recognized that Jesus was born to die for them!  They would not let anything distract them from knowing and following Jesus.

As we head into a coming New Year, I pray that we not become so distracted by the things of this life that we miss Jesus!  We need biblical wisdom heading into the New Year!  And yes, wise men/women still follow and worship Jesus!  I pray for God’s blessings as we end 2020 and go fast forward into 2021.  The greatest blessing of all is recognizing Jesus for who He is - Savior and Lord!   He alone is worthy of our worship! 

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

Merry Christmas everyone!   Jesus is still the Christ of Christmas!  My thoughts and prayers continue to go before “the throne of grace” on behalf of all those that are hurting this season that you “may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (cf. Hebrews 4: 14-16)

Of the 1,189 chapters and 31,102 verses of the Bible, John 3:16 is probably the most succinct proclamation of the gospel (good news) of Jesus Christ. 

“For God so loved the world (you!) that He gave (gift of Christmas) His only begotten Son (Jesus Christ), that whoever (you!) believes in Him (trusts in the one who bore the penalty of our sins) should not perish (separation from God) but have everlasting life.”

We have to come to the Bible knowing there is a God.  Psalm 19:1 reminds us that, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork.”  Romans 1:20 says that “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead…”

John 3:16 clearly explains the “who, what and why of Christmas.”

Who gave was our creator - God!   What He gave was His Son, Jesus Christ!   Why He gave was that whoever trusts in Him will not perish.

The world is not on trail, you are not on trial but the world is lost and you are lost without Jesus Christ.  God’s motive for sending the greatest gift of all was not to condemn but to save! (cf. John 3: 17)   John 20: 31 says “these things are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.”

My prayer is that you truly believe/trust in Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and trust/follow Him as the Lord of your life!  You won’t be sorrow - in this life or the one to come!

Merry Christmas!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

Unfortunately for the next three weeks we have made the hard decision to not hold “in-person” worship services due to the increase in the covid outbreak.  I am praying for all the shut-ins; those quarantined due to the virus; health care workers; medical responders; police officers; fire fighters; government officials and the church.

What a year!?  One of those that attend our congregation shared with me that her sister-in-laws husband, son and father are all in the hospital - different hospitals at that.  My heart and prayer goes out to her.

Jesus promised that He would not allow more on us than we can handle, but situations like this really test our faith.

In times like this we must hold firmly onto our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His eternal word.  His truth is the anchor for our lives and souls.

The prophet Isaiah foretold 700 years prior to Jesus’ coming, “For unto us a Child is born (fully man), unto us a Son is given (full God); …His government…there will be no end!”

Mankind’s problem is not our humanity but our fallenness!

Aren’t you thankful that Jesus burst onto our world to save us.  But we must personally invite Him into our world, our lives.  His greatest desire is to journey with you from the cradle to the grave, and yes, beyond the grave to His eternal kingdom!

His name is Wonderful, Counselor, Might God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace!  Do you know Him?!  You can today! 

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

If you have listened to the news recently or picked up any news paper lately you will come to realize very quickly the hash reality of a world gone bad, and getting worse. Is there any hope for mankind?  Is there any hope for all the madness that is going on?  Is there any hope for tomorrow?  The bible would say yes!  The bible tells us “For with God nothing will be impossible.” (Luke 1: 36b)   The gospel is “Good News!” - “…and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1: 21b)

This same Jesus, God incarnate, God in the flesh came not only to save us from the penalty and power of sin in our lives, but to manifest His reality in and through us!   Like Joseph and Mary, its starts with a simple “Yes” - “Behold the ….servant of the Lord!  Let it be according to your word.”                  (Luke 1: 38)  We may not understand.  We may be fearful.  We like Mary may ask “How can this be?”   Look to Jesus.  Listen to His words - “Fear not - Greater is He that is in thee than he that is in the world - I am with you always, even until the end of the age - let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid - and behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work. I am the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.” - JESUS!

Jesus is Worthy of your life.  Have you given your life to Jesus?  Does He reign and rule in your heart today?  “Behold, I stand at the door and knock.  If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” - JESUS (Revelation 3: 21)

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

Advent - “the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event.”   Advent means ‘Coming’ in Latin.   What a year 2020 has been!   I challenged myself and His church to “believe God for the impossible” in 2020!   What has taken place this year was not what I had in mind or anticipated.  But God has met my challenge - “to believe Him for the impossible!”   Really that is what faith is, isn’t it?  The bibles says “faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11)

I haven’t seen Jesus, but I believe Him at His word.  By faith, I am believing God’s word for life, death and eternity.  I could not have possibly seen what was coming this year, but if I am truly “believing God for the impossible” I don’t need to see what is coming.  My faith rests in the person and work of Jesus Christ.  Jesus says “I am the way”, not a way, but “the way!”  If we keep our eyes on Jesus we won’t loose our way.  Jesus says “I am the truth”, not one of many truths, but “the truth!”

The bible says that one day heaven and earth will pass away, but His word, His truth will never pass away. (cf. Matthew 24: 35)

The bible reminds us that “it is impossible for God to lie…this hope we have as an anchor of the soul…” (cf. Hebrews 6: 18-19)

In a world of strong delusion, half truths and lies, I am thankful for God’s truth and His promises.   Jesus says “I am the life”, not a secret to life, but “the life!”  There is no life apart from God the Father.  There is no way to the Father Jesus says “except through Me.” (cf. John 14: 6)

There are not many ways to God, only one way - Jesus!

Have you invited Jesus to come into your life?!

Jesus says “behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in.”  (cf. Revelation 3: 20)

In a world of uncertainty, I am thankful for Jesus and the certainty of His word!  

“Let not your heart be troubled” - Jesus (the way - the truth - the life!)

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

“Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!  For His mercy endures forever.” (1 Chronicles 16: 34)

I am thankful for the precious gift of life!  I am thankful for my: parents; siblings; grandparents; wife; children; in-laws; grandchildren; family and friends; brothers and sisters in Christ.

I am thankful for work, ministry and to live in America.  I am thankful for the necessities of life: air; sunshine; water; food; shelter; clothing.

I could go into all the details of the “why” I am thankful for all the above, but due to length of article and so not to bore you, I will refrain from doing so.   In this year of “Debbie downers” and negativity it is good to reflect on what we are thankful for.

I am thankful for christian influence, present and past- for His church!

I am thankful for God’s love, grace and mercy - I don’t deserve any of it!

I am thankful for God’s word, His Son and the Holy Spirit.

What I am most thankful for is the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ!

Jesus said, “ I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.  Do you believe this?” - John 11: 25-26

Yes, I do!  So you see, I have a lot to be thankful for!

Because of Jesus’ promise, the relationships that I have on earth will continue on right into eternity - if they believe too!

What are you thankful for?  Do you believe?!

Romans 10: 9 promises “that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved!”

I am thankful for the enduring, eternal truth of God’s word!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

By faith I chose to believe God’s word.  From Genesis 1: 1, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”  To Revelation 22: 20, “surely I am coming quickly.”  And all in between:  Psalm 117: 2, “…and the truth of the LORD endures forever.”; John 1: 1, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” ;         John 3: 16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”  Faith grounded on God’s word is critical, for life and death - faith in who God is and who we are - “who am I?”

Often we define ourselves through our jobs, ministry, financial status, success, failure, appearance, what people think or say about us.  Viewing yourself as God sees you is what matters.  God says you are “fearfully and wonderfully made.” (cf. Psalm 139: 13-16)   The bibles says, “as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who are born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.”   Have you by faith, believed and received Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord?!  If so, God says you are born again - His son and daughter!   He says you are a new creation and that you have received His righteousness.  He says you are holy and sanctified.  He says you are the salt and light of the world. He says that you are now a part of a royal priesthood, a saint and no longer a sinner.  He says your name is written in the Lamb’s book of life.  He says you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you!  He says you are more than conquerers through Him who loved (you).   He says that nothing shall be able to separate (you) from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.  Greater is He that is you, than he that is in the world!

“Faith & Identity” is important as we find God in each step of this wonderful thing called life!   Faith in God and His word.  Faith in what He thinks and says about us (you) - your “true identity!” 

“Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever.”  And all God’s people said, “Amen!”

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

A Soldier’s Prayer, by Col. Lewis Millet (Metal of Honor - Korea, Feb. 7th, 1951) in Honor of our Veterans.

“I have fought when others feared to serve.  I have gone where others failed to go.  I’ve lost friends in war and strife, who valued duty more than love of life.  I have shared the comradeship of pain, I have searched the lands for men that we have lost.  I have sons who served this land of liberty, who would fight to see that other stricken lands are free.  I have seen the weak forsake humanity.  I have heard the traitors praise our enemy.  I’ve seen challenged men become even bolder, I’ve seen the duty, honor, sacrifice of the soldier.  Now I understand the meaning of our lives, the loss of comrades not so very long ago.  So to you who have answered duties siren call, may God bless you my son, may God bless you all.”

“Thank you” to all our Veteran’s!  You may not have served your country via the military but God has called all people to -

“Honor all people.  Love the brotherhood.  Fear God.  Honor the king.”

(1 Peter 2:17)  God’s commands are for our well being as a people.

The bible reminds us in Jeremiah 29:10, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Jesus said, “I am the door.  If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved…I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:9-10)

“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.” - Numbers 6: 24-26

God help us to turn to the God of the Bible, to Jesus the savior of humankind and receive His blessings and abundant life.

God help us to once again become “one Nation under God!”

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

“When tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, that an angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand; The angel said my place was ready, In Heaven far above, and that I’d have to leave behind all those I dearly love.  But when I walked through Heaven’s Gates, I felt so much at home, for God looked down, smiled at me, and told me ‘Welcome Home!’  So when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’er far apart, for every time you think of me, I’m right there in your heart.” - unknown

I love this poem.  Its not just a nice little hopeful poem but one grounded upon the word of God.  I can’t imagine how 2020 could get any worse, but when death hits home it puts everything into proper perspective - the temporary over the eternal.  This life is all about relationships.  Past, present, future, and thanks to Jesus - eternal relationships! 

Jesus is supreme.  He has all authority and He is sovereign.  Because of Jesus when a brother or sister in Christ dies, it is not ‘good-bye,’ but ‘I will see you later.’  The eternal is what Jesus was conveying when He proclaimed, “I am the bread of life…I am the light of the world…I am the door…I am the shepherd…I am the resurrection and the life…I am the way…I am the true vine.” (cf. John)

The most urgent need of the moment is for people to come to Jesus Christ!  You say, ‘I am a Christ follow’ - great!  Continue to focus on the supremacy and ‘I Ams’ of Jesus.  The ‘I am’ will sustain you even in the worst of times!

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, Dominion and power, both now and forever.  Amen.” - Jude 24-25

“And with your final heartbeat kiss the world goodbye, then go in peace, and laugh on Glory’s side, and fly to Jesus, fly to Jesus, fly to Jesus and live! (Lyrics “come to Jesus” by Chris Rice 

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

“Jesus, Jesus, Jesus there is just something about that name!”   Jesus has many other Names, seven of which can be found in Psalm 23.

Jehovah Rohi - The Lord is My Shepherd.

Jehovah Jireh - The Lord will Provide - “I shall not want.”

Jehovah Shalom - The Lord send Peace - “He leads me beside still waters.”

Jehovah Rophi - The Lord that Healeth - “He restores my soul.”

Jehovah Tsidkenu - The Lord our Righteousness - “He leads me in paths of righteousness.”

Jehovah Shammah - The Lord is There - “For you are with me.”

Jehovah Nissi - The Lord my banner - “In the presence of my enemies.”

The Lord is!  It is overwhelming to realize that our creator desires us to know Him in such a personal way that He calls Himself Shepherd.  He invites us to consider us His sheep - His object of affection and attention!

Jesus left the comforts of heaven and came into your world, your “pasture.”  Jesus sweated like you do.  He walked your path.  He braved your wolves.  He faced your temptations and shared your struggles.  The Holy One.  The anointed One.  Jesus Christ came to be your Shepherd!  You have nothing to fear!

Is Jesus your Shepherd?  He is calling - can you hear His voice?!  Come to Jesus and truly live!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

I invited (proposed) Becky to marry me over 39 years ago - she said, “yes.”   We both had just turned 19 years of age when we got married.   Our vows before God and witnesses were, “for richer or for poorer.  In sickness or in health.  For better or for worse - till death do we part.”

Although I cannot image my life without her now, I know that some day we will be separated by death.  Becky and I both accepted God’s invitation to accept His Son (Jesus) as our Savior and Lord.  We both believe the Bible to be God’s inspired word and the Bible says, “for the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” - that is the good news of the gospel!  Yes, death will someday part us in this life, but because of Jesus Christ we will be reunited someday in heaven!

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” (John 11:25)   God invites you and me to be a part of the eternal kingdom of heaven.   Jesus says, “Come to the wedding!”

(cf. Matthew 22), but you must accept the invitation - have you?!  I’m thankful that Jesus brings hope for today, tomorrow and beyond the grave!

I’m thankful because of Jesus I will never have to say goodbye to my loved ones who know Jesus too, but only “see you later” or  as the lyrics to my favorite song goes, “I’ll meet you in the morning!”

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

There is a great little chorus by Bruce Ballinger that goes like this,  “We have come into His house and gathered in His name to worship Him.  We have come into His house and gathered in His name to worship Him.  We have come into His house and gathered in His name to worship Christ the Lord.  Worship Him, Christ the Lord.”    

The word “worship” runs through the Bible.  What is worship?  Is it just a matter of attending church on Sunday, singing a few songs, having prayer, putting the Lord’s tithe in the plate and listening to another sermon? 

Certainly, these are “acts” of worship, but you can do all these “acts” and still not truly worship.  Only when we see the Lord “in the beauty of holiness” as the psalmist penned in Psalm 96: 9, can we truly worship.  What did the psalmist mean?  Worship doesn’t begin when we go to church.  Worship is an expression of our life, yielding it wholly, in holiness to God for the fulfillment of His purpose - to glorify Him - that is worship!

When we see Him as He is, “in the beauty of holiness” we cannot help but fall to our knees and cry out “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of hosts; The whole earth is full of His glory!” (Isaiah 6: 3)  and agree with the angelic host “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.”         

(Revelation 4:11)   Every manifestation of God is full of beauty. You and I join the angels, and all of nature in worship, when we are what He created us to be - “His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus.” 

(cf. Ephesians 2:10)

So, as that little chorus continues, “Let’s forget about ourselves and magnify His name and worship Him!”

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

“Homecoming” - are you ready?!

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” 

(Psalm 90: 12)   Death is not a popular topic.  We don’t like to really talk about it.  About the only time we really seem to address it, is at funerals.  But Jesus came preciously because of death!  “The last enemy that will be destroyed is death” (1 Cor.15: 26).  He came to conquer death - mission accomplished!   The bible reminds us, “Death is swallowed up in victory…thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (cf. 1 Corinthians 15: 50-57)   Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” (John 11:25-26)

Life is so fragile.  Most of us prepare and plan to live a long time, but none of us know if we even have tomorrow.  David acknowledged this when he told Jonathan, “truly, as the LORD lives and as your soul lives, there is but a step between me and death” (1 Samuel 20: 3b)  - that is the harsh reality for all of us!   Yes, live the life that the giver of life has given you, but also live in a state of readiness (preparedness) to meet Him face to face at a moments notice!

“Behold, I tell you a mystery: we shall not all sleep (die), but we shall all be changed - in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.  For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed!” (1 Cor.15: 51-52)

That is the hope of the gospel!  What a homecoming that will be some day!  The bible says, “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God.  And the dead in Christ will rise first.  Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.  And thus we shall always be with the Lord.” - 1 Thessalonians 4: 16-17

“I’m no longer looking for the signs of the times.  I’m listening for the sound of the trumpet!”  Are you ready?!   You have to be part of the kingdom of God now (the kingdom of God is within you) to take part in His eternal kingdom in the future! 

What a “homecoming” that will be!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

“Though vine nor fig-tree neither

Their wonted fruit shall bear;

Though all the fields should wither,

Nor flocks nor herds be there;

Yet God the same abiding,

His praise shall tune my voice;

For while in Him confiding.

I cannot but rejoice.” 

G. Campbell Morgan well said, “Our joy is in proportion to our trust.  Our trust is in proportion to our knowledge of God.” 

A living faith in troubled times becomes even more dependent upon God.

We might not always know the “why?” and “how long?”  We may still have more questions than answers, but a living faith continues to trust in the sovereignty of God and His word.   We continue to walk by faith even if our circumstances don’t change.  I like how Warren Wiersbe puts it, “God doesn’t always change the circumstances, but He can change us to meet the circumstances.  That’s what it means to live by faith.”

The prophet Habakkuk had a godly burden and vision for his nation and God’s people.  He responded by waiting upon God and prayer.  As he prayed “O LORD, revive Your work in the midst of the years!”  he continued to worship the LORD and recognize His sovereignty in all things - “…His glory covered the heavens, and the earth was full of His praise…You divided the earth with rivers.  The mountains saw You and trembled…the sun and moon stood still in their habitation…I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.  The LORD God is my strength…”

• Habakkuk 3

The LORD did bring revival, but His way and His timing.  May we be a people of faith, a people of faith with a godly burden and response to our trouble times.  A people of faith that trusts in the one true God and in our Savior and Lord - the Lord Jesus Christ!  

Blessed be the name of the LORD!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference.”

• Reinhold Niebuhr

Sometimes wisdom is learning to “Let Go.”  Margaret Rinck well said, “to ‘let go’ does not mean to stop caring, it means that I can’t do it for someone else.  To ‘let go’ is not to cut myself off, it is the realization that I can’t control another.  To ‘let go’ is not to enable, but to allow learning from natural consequences.  To ‘let go’ is to admit powerlessness, which means the outcome is not in my hands.  To ‘let go’ is not to deny, but to accept.”

The prophet Habakkuk had to learn to “let go.”  He had a godly burden for his nation and God’s people.  He cried out to God “how long…why?”  When God gave him the answer he wasn’t expecting or looking for he had to learn to “let go” and trust in the sovereignty of his God.

‘A living faith in troubled times’ doesn’t pretend to have all the answers.  Sometimes a ‘godly response’ is simply “waiting on the Lord.”   

The bible says, “But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength!” (cf. Isaiah 40:31)

Habakkuk came to this conclusion when he said, “I will stand my watch and set myself on the rampart, and watch to see what He will say to me, and what I will answer when I am corrected.” (cf. Habakkuk 2:1)

Will you “stand your watch” in these trouble times?! 

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

It’s not how you start, but how you finish in life that has the most impact.  I pray that we all desire to finish well!  As followers of Jesus we are people of faith - faith that endures during troubled times.  We are certainly experiencing troubled times.  Troubling times for our world, our country, our families and the state of the church at large.  What if these troubling times are allowed to bring about the greater good, that is, God’s will for our lives?   We say that we have a godly burden for these troubling times, but do we really?  We say we have a burden to see the Lord send revival to the church, that we have a burden to see our country and world turn to the one true living God and the savior of their eternal souls - Jesus, but do we really?  Do we have such a godly burden to pray, “Lord at any cost?!”

The prophet Habakkuk battled this problem.  He had lived during a time of revival and he started to witness a time that God’s people and nation slip into lethargy and sin.  He lived through a time of revival followed by a time of spiritual decline, and the Bible says he had a “burden” for what he saw!

He cried out O LORD, “How long…why?!” (cf. Habakkuk 1)

We have those same questions today.  If we are earnest, if we have a godly burden for these times, we need to be prepared for the answer.

Well, God gave Habakkuk an answer.  You have heard the saying “too good to be true?!”   Well, God’s answer was “too bad to be true!”

God was going to bring about revival but not in the way Habakkuk had in mind! (cf. Habakkuk 1: 5-11)   We are not unlike Habakkuk, if we are honest with ourselves, we question God’s way of doing things and His timing.   Like Jeremiah at times we say, “My strength and my hope have perished from the Lord.”  But like Habakkuk and Jeremiah, if when our faith is tested we rest upon the sovereignty of our creator, His goodness, His mercy, His grace, His enduring Word - we will “recall to my mind, therefore I have hope.  Through the LORD’S mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not.  They are new every morning; the LORD is my portion, says my soul, therefore I hope in Him!”

(cf. Lamentations 3: 21-24)

Yes, we have a living faith for these troubled times!  May we have a godly burden also that prays “Lord, at any cost thy will be done!”  Let us, with God’s help, be determined to finish well! 

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

“Look at others, and be distressed.  Look at yourself, and be depressed.  Look to God, and you’ll blessed.”  This saying, although I do not know who authored it, has some good Biblical theology behind it.  Anytime we get our eyes off the Lord, we are headed for discouragement and trouble - I unfortunately speak from experience.  But you and I are in good company because this has been the plight of humankind since the beginning!  The Bible reminds us we are going to have trials and opposition in this life.  During these times we need to be reminded of the greatness of our Creator.  We also need to be reminded that our Savior and Lord, can understand and sympathize with our humanness - in every point!  The prophet Isaiah had to remind God’s peoples when they were facing a difficult task and seeming impossible tomorrow to “lift up (their) eyes on high, and see who has created these things!”   This same God has promised “those who wait on the LORD, shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40: 31)  To wait does not imply we do nothing, but to look to God for all that we need!   We can look to Him and lean upon His promises.  We can rely on His power - “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)  We can rely upon His provision - “and my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)

Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (cf. Matthew 11: 28)

As we celebrate this Labor Day Weekend, let us recognize God’s provision and look to Jesus to find true rest from the labors and burdens of life.

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

Jesus said, “if you would believe you would see the glory of God!”

People are missing life’s “measuring rod” when they choose not to believe.

On the other hand, when you choose to believe your eyes are opened to the glory of God and the purpose for your life!  We see the glory of God in nature itself (e.g. moon, stars, trees, oceans, rivers, streams, mountains), which is why the Bible says that mankind is without excuse “for since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made.” (cf. Romans 1: 20)

We see the glory of God in children, each life “fearfully and wonderfully made, marvelous are Your works…” (cf. Psalm 139: 13-16)

We witness the glory of God in a life that is transformed by the power of Jesus Christ in their life - that miracle of the spiritual new birth!

The Apostles were eyewitnesses to the glory of God - Jesus Christ “who being the brightness of His Glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power.” (cf. Hebrews 1: 3)

John said “and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory! (cf. John 1: 14)

We see the glory of God through scripture, the Bible, from Genesis 1: 1, “In the beginning God created…” to Revelation 22: 21, “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.”  We see the glory of God when our eyes are opened to the truth that “all scripture is given by inspiration of God” - “for the word of God is living and powerful!’

The bible opens our eyes to the reality of heaven and its glory!  The book of Revelation paints this picture: “the city was pure gold…the street of the city was pure gold…the glory of God illuminated it…pure river of water from the throne of God and of the Lamb…no more curse…no night there…no more tears…no more death…no more sorrow…no more pain…”

“Behold I make all things new!”

I pray that you see and experience the glory of God in your life!  If not, I pray that the “stone of unbelief would be rolled away” and that you might see clearly for maybe the first time and experience the glory of God and His purpose for you!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

Yes…my prescription eye glasses are finally right - I can now see clearly!

There is nothing worse than looking through cloudy, distorted lenses.

When viewing this life and our future eternity we most certainly need to see through the correct lens - through the eye of scripture - the bible.

The bible is God’s revelation to humankind -to how life all began, to how it is going to end, and the journey between.  God finishes what He starts - He sees the end from the beginning!  We have all heard that saying “all good things must come to an end!”  But, if we live in the promise of scripture, if we look through the lens of the Bible we realize that the best is yet to come!

The God of the Bible promises “a new heaven and a new earth”, one in which He “will wipe away every tear”, one in which “there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying”, one in which “there shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away!” (cf. Revelation 21)

There is certainty of reward and heaven for all those who believe and receive Jesus Christ as Savior and follow Him as Lord of their life!  Through the lens of scripture you and I can have renewed hope!  The gospel is good news!  Yes in this life we will have trouble.  This life is never going to be perfect, but Jesus promises that He will “never leave you nor forsake you” - He will be with you in whatever you are going through, if you will only trust and look to Him - “the author and finisher of your faith!”

Your beginning with Him never ends.  It starts now and into eternity!

“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me…I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.” - Jesus

Amen.  Even so, come, Lord Jesus!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

Your personal Prologue and Epilogue.

This too shall end!  You may not see light at the end of tunnel, but remember, this too shall pass!   The storms of this life will pass, all things earthly have an end or Epilogue.  Jesus said that even “heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall never pass away!”  Jesus wants to be with you in those storms via a personal relationship with Him.  God (the trinity) is eternal, and He has made us eternal - all of humankind has an eternal soul.  Your prologue (beginning) really begins with your Epilogue (end) - the end of self and a new life in Christ!  Jesus said “you must be born again!”  You and I begin our spiritual journey now, in this life.  When this life is over, what you and I have done with Christ will determine our Prologue in eternity - an eternity that has no Epilogue.  The bible in the book of Revelation describes the Prologue of eternity for those that have rejected Jesus Christ - “then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire.  This is the second death.  And anyone not found written in the Book of life was cast into the lake of fire.”  The bible is clear about the certainty of the judgement for those who have not accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and Lord.  The bible reminds us that “God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” (John 3:17)

“As I live, says the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live.  Turn, turn from your evil ways!” (cf. Ezekiel 33: 11)

The bible reminds us in 1 John 5: 13 “These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.”   Have you?!  Do you know that your name is in the Book of life?!  You can, accept Jesus Christ by faith and follow Him!

The end of this life (Epilogue) is really the beginning (Prologue)!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

“Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me.”

I’m sure we have all heard that saying.  But it is an untrue statement, because words do hurt and are damaging.  The bible says in James that “the tongue is a little member and boasts great things…out of the same mouth proceed blessings and cursing.  My brethren, these things ought not to be so.”   We all have made mistakes with our tongue.  We have all said things at one time out of anger, frustration, protection, out of defense and or compassion that we wish we could take back - we have all been the recipient at one time too.   The key is not to become bitter and unforgiving.  Ephesians says “Be angry, and do not sin. do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.” (cf. Ephesians 4:26)  

Psalm 4:4 says “Be angry, and do not sin.  Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still.  Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD.”   We must be like James instructs “slow to speak, slow to wrath” because, “the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”

Yes, we are to speak the truth, but speak the truth in love.  There are always lessons to be learned.  We must learn from our mistakes to move forward.  Jesus wants us to move forward in our journey with him and one another.  The bible says that Jesus “has given us the ministry of reconciliation.” (2 Corinthians 5: 18)   The natural man, the flesh, doesn’t want reconciliation.  The spiritual man (non gender) not only desires reconciliation but understands that is his/her ministry.  Life is all about relationships, with God through Christ and with one another.

So…”be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (cf.  Ephesians 4: 32)

We are all in this together - for we are members of one another!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

“The Glory of the Lord shone around them…” (Luke 2: 9b)

How does one even start to explain or comprehend the Glory of God?!  Yes, we can read of the glory of God from Genesis to Revelation.  From God’s glory in the beginning illuminating the earth (His Shekinah Glory - “dwelling or settling of the divine presence of God”),… to God walking with Adam and Eve in the cool of the day,… to God descending upon Mount Sinai,… to God filling the tabernacle in the wilderness,… to God filling Solomon’s temple,.. to God coming to earth in human form - God incarnate - Jesus - Immanuel - “God with us.”   “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1: 14),…to that coming city that Revelation speaks of, “The city had no need of the sun or moon to shine in it, for the glory of God illuminated it.” (21: 23b)   Though we cannot fully explain or comprehend God’s glory this side of heaven, like the shepherds (cf. Luke 2:8-10), we can humbly accept God’s gift of Salvation, “…which the Lord has made known to us.”   And in humble adoration- Worship and Praise Him!   And like the lyrics to the song, I can only Imagine - “I can only imagine what it will be like when I walk by Your side, I can only imagine what my eyes will see when Your face is before me….surrounded by Your Glory what will my heart feel…I can only imagine.”

But, we are not in heaven yet.  We are not saved just for heaven’s sake but for earthly sake.  The bible reminds us “to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with long-suffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4: 2-3)

You and I are able to live out the christian life because of “Christ in us, the hope of glory!” (cf. Colossians 1: 27)

“To Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen!”

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

“He is able more than able

To accomplish what concerns me today

He is able more than able

To handle anything that comes my way

He is able more than able

To do much more than I could ever dream

He is able more than able

To make me what He wants me to be” - Lyrics, Maranatha singers

Do you believe that?  I hope so because those lyrics are founded upon God’s never changing, all authoritative word - “Now to Him [The God of the bible] who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think!” (cf. Ephesians 3:20)

I choose to believe God! How about you?!  We need only to put our faith and trust in our creator and Savior - “to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever, Amen!” (cf. Ephesians 3: 21)

“Through the LORD’S mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not.  They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.  The LORD is my portion, says my soul, therefore I hope in Him!” (cf. Lamentations 3: 22-24)

And all God’s people said, “Amen, and Amen!”

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

The bible reminds us in Psalm 90:12 to “teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

Solomon, the wisest man to every live instructed us to “let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter (life): fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all.” (cf. Ecclesiastes 12: 13)

The bible is God’s word to help us live life to its fullest!   The God of the Bible is the same God who “in the beginning created the heavens and the earth.”

The same God who new you when you were in your mother’s womb and who has declared that you are fearfully and wonderfully made!” (cf. Psalm 139: 13-16)

The same God who sent His Son (Jesus) so that you might be saved, and ready for an eternity with Him someday soon! (cf. John 3: 16-18)

We are living in the “last days” and we have been since Jesus was resurrected from the dead over two thousand years ago.  In light of eternity, what is two thousand years?!   Many of us will die before Jesus comes back, but whether we live or die we should live our present lives with an eternal perspective - our eyes on eternity! 

As John Newton penned in that great hymn Amazing Grace - “when we’ve been there ten thousand years!”  Our lives on earth are temporal and short, but eternal and for all eternity in the life to come!

Jesus would have you to live wisely in this present age.  Jesus told the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25.  Jesus said that five were wise and that five were foolish.   The wise lived out their lives in expectation of the bridegroom coming at any moment.   The foolish lived out their lives with no regard of his coming.

And Jesus said that “those who were ready went in with him to the wedding and the door was shut.”

Someday the door of grace is going to be shut!  So you and I would be wise to heed Jesus’ warning “watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor hour in which the Son of Man is coming!”

In Christ alone,

Pastor Rodney

The first paragraph to the preamble of the Declaration of Independence signed on July 4th, 1776 is probably the most quoted -  

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." 

Our pledge of Allegiance as a Nation - “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic, for which is stands, One Nation, Under God, indivisible with Liberty and justice for all.”

Jesus said, “‘If’ you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:31)

I love my Country, but I am worried we have lost our way.  One Nation Under God?   It is only ‘if’ we are under God’s rule (the creator and sustainer of all life) that we can truly experience Life, Liberty and Happiness!  Jesus said that He came to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives…to set at liberty those who are oppressed! (cf. Luke 4: 18-19) 

As a Christ follower I have dual citizenship.  I am a citizen of heaven (via spiritual birth) and I am a citizen of the United States (via physical birth) - both have privileges and responsibilities.

May God help us to find our way and unite as a country, understanding our privileges and responsibilities as law abiding citizens.  May God help us to understand our need for His Son and dependence upon Him!

“I am the way, the truth, and the life.” - Jesus

Come to Christ and experience “True Freedom” - Life, Liberty and Happiness!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

Father’s and Mother’s day has always been a more difficult time for me to preach.  I’m not sure why?  I am fortunate to still have both of my parents, whom I love and I know that they love me.  I am fortunate too to have good memories of my childhood.   So why the difficulty?   Maybe its because not everyone still have their parents?  Maybe its because not everyone has good memories of their childhood.  Maybe because I know that not all have a good relationship with their parents?  Maybe its because not everyone is a father or mother and I feel this is a time that excludes them?  Maybe its because I feel I’ve fallen short as a father at times, not loved perfectly  - made my mistakes along the way?

Not sure exactly why the difficulty?  One thing I do know for sure though is that the God of the Bible is the perfect parent - our heavenly Father.  I know that He loves perfectly and makes no mistakes - no, not one.

I know that family is important to Him and that He designed and instituted the family structure. I know that we are to love one another “unconditionally” and that all lives matter to Him!  I know that He has instructed children to “obey their parents.”  I know that He has commanded us to “Honor our father and mother.”  I know that He has instructed fathers to raise their children “up in the training and admonition of the Lord.” (cf. Ephesians 6: 1-4)   I know that we still love imperfectly but if we follow God’s instruction, and with His help, we can do better and be a better people for it - a people pleasing to God, which according to Solomon is the “conclusion of the whole matter!” (cf. Ecclesiastes 12: 13)

Happy Father’s Day!!

In Christ Alone,

Rodney

 Jesus said, “…my house shall be called a house of prayer…”  (cf.Matthew 21:13)  So why is it so hard for us to really pray?   Jim Cymbala, the pastor of the Brooklyn Tabernacle in New York, author of “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” said, “…the future will depend upon our times of prayer.”  Pastor Jim’s ministry is an example of what God will do through prayer, and I am thankful for his example.  But our greatest example is Jesus.  In the gospel of Luke we read that it was while He was praying in the Jordan that the spirit descended.  It was while He spent a night in prayer that He chose 12 disciples.  When He was on the cross Jesus was praying for those who persecuted Him.  It was while He was praying that He was transfigured.  The scripture say that the disciples went to bed, but Jesus went to pray.  Why pray?   I think Jesus answered that - so church lets PRAY!  

We need more men and women standing in  the “Gap!”   God said, “I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one.” (Ezekiel 22:30)   Church, I believe our greatest need and our most powerful weapon in these “Times” is PRAYER!

Jesus while praying in Gethsemane rebuked His disciples for falling asleep -“What! Could you not watch with Me one hour?” (Matthew 26:40)  Are we asleep too?!   Am I asleep?!  Oh, God stir my heart!   God may I be that one that is willing to stand in the “Gap” and intercede on behalf of others! May I not be asleep, but may I be persistent in prayer!

Will you stand in the “GAP” ?!

The bible promises “If my people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness. Only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.

“True love is an act of the will - a conscience decision to do what is best for the other person instead of ourselves.” - Rev. Billy Graham

“Whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them.” - Jesus

Jesus said to “love one another.” He even commanded us to “love our enemies!”
Yes there are injustices in our world, and those who break the law of the land should be judged by those laws that are intended to protect us. And yes we should help and defend those that can’t help and defend themselves, it is not only the right thing to do but more importantly biblical.
I personally believe what is going on in our country and world today is the signs of the times, that is the return of Christ - “the blessed hope!”
One has to wonder how much worse does it have to get before Jesus comes back?! We are not the only generation that has had those thoughts - each generation has had its moments.
Jesus has called past, present and future believers to be the “salt” and “light” in our present world - not our light, but Christ in us. Mankind cannot legislate morality, it only comes via true repentance and a regenerated heart. The cure for what is going on is a heart change that only comes by Jesus Christ. As disappointed and upset as I am for what is going on I realize I must do by part to love others. I must look into the mirror before I look out the window! “Lord help me to love others as I should.” It starts with me. How about you?

In Christ Alone,
Pastor Rodney

The bible reminds me that “God has not given [me] a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

I believe in the God of the Bible.  I believe the Bible to be God’s inspired word to mankind.  I believe “in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”  I believe “for God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16).  I believe Jesus when He says that He will never leave me nor forsake me, even when I don’t sense His presence or when He seems silent.  I believe in my personal responsibility to follow Him as Lord, meaning He has reign and rule of my life.  I also believe in the providential care of a loving, caring God.  

“The LORD is my shepherd.”  I’m learning to be content.  He tries to “lead me to green pastures and beside still waters” so that my soul will be restored.  He leads me to a right way to live (righteousness,) if I will only listen to His voice and follow Him.   Although I may “walk beside the valley of the shadow of death” I have nothing to fear because He is with me from the cradle to the grave and all in between.  Though I have enemies and an enemy of my soul, He has given me His Holy Spirit so that I might experience joy to overflowing and experience true peace, peace that surpasses all understanding.  I recognize His goodness and mercy to me as I journey through this life with all its valleys and mountains.  When this life ends as I know it, I am thankful for the promise of eternal life and a place in His eternal home - because He promises!  (cf. Psalm 23)

Help me Jesus to hear your voice among all the noice of this life and to truly follow you!  May I truly experience “The LORD as my shepherd!”

How about you?!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

In Christ alone my hope is found!

Memorial Day, Memorial weekend.  A time to pause and remember the ultimate sacrifices made for the freedoms we embrace and enjoy.  A time to remember our loved ones, family and friends that are not longer here on earth with us - a painful reminder of our loss and deep love for them.  For those that have suffered loss recently the pain and memory of our loss is way too fresh.  For those whose loss has been long ago the pain has been mitigated but their memory still fresh.   Although painful, it is good to remember, as long as it does not keep us from moving forward.   We honor our loved ones by remembering, but also by moving forward with the life we have been given.  Life is the most precious gift from our creator, but we are all fully aware it is not lived void of pain and loss.  The bible helps those who seek His help to mitigate our loss and pain.  Jesus came preciously to defeat sin and the grave.  There is not only hope, but God’s own promise that those who believe and receive His Son Jesus Christ will inherit eternal life.  Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” (John 11:25-26)   Jesus says to remember His life, remember His blood shed for your sins.  Never forget the price paid at calvary. (cf. 1 Cor. 11: 23-26)  Also, remember He is coming again to stop time as we know it and to usher in eternity for all eternity - He will make all things new!

Yes remember and honor those that have gone on, but also live and prepare for your eternity.   Jesus return is soon and in the meantime you and I have present responsibilities!

May you have a blessed and hopeful Memorial weekend! 

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Rodney

“Advent” - the coming of Christ.  This is a past, present and future reality!  Past - Jesus came in the flesh.  Present - Jesus can dwell in you, via the Holy Spirit.  Future - Jesus is physically coming again at the end of time as we know it.  Jesus told us there would be signs of His coming again and the end of the age.  He told us that many of the things we are now experiencing are only “the beginning of sorrows.” (cf. Matthew 24)   You may find yourself currently in a good place in life.  You may currently be in a tough time right now or somewhere in between.  But the reality is that all of mankind is in a hopeless situation without Christ.  Jesus came to bring hope to the hopeless.  The Gospel is indeed good news!  The bible says that God is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”  The bible says that Jesus came to save us from our sins - mankind’s greatest need.  “…and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” (cf. Matthew 1:21)

Without the forgiveness of your sins you are in a hopeless state.  Jesus brought hope - hope for today, tomorrow and beyond the grave.

The bible says that nature itself is yearning for Christ’s return (cf. Romans 8: 18-22) when He will make ALL things new!

Jesus - the birth of “Hope!”  I pray you possess the hope Jesus brought!

“What a pleasure in life it is bringing!  What assurance and hope ever bright!  O what rapture and bliss are awaiting, when our faith shall be lost in the sight!  Tis a kingdom of peace, it is reigning within, it shall ever increase in my soul; we possess it right here when He saves from all sin, and t’will last while the ages shall roll.”

“Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” - Titus 2: 13

In Christ alone my hope is found!

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

Happy Mother’s Day

“Well may we pause to pay honor to her who after Jesus Christ is God's best gift to men, mother. It was she who shared her life with us when as yet our members were unformed, into the valley of the shadow of death she walked that we might have the light of life. In her arms was the garner of our food and the soft couch for our repose. There we nestled in the hour of pain; there was the playground of our infant glee.

Those same arms later became our refuge and stronghold. It was she who taught our baby feet to go and lifted us up over the rough places. Her blessed hands plied the needle by day and by night to make our clothes. She put the book under our arm and started us off for school. But best of all, she taught our baby lips to lisp the name of Jesus and told us first the wondrous story of a Savior's love.”

• Motherhood, by W.L.Calwell written in 1928

The bible reminds us in Genesis 1:27, “God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”  The bible goes on to tell us in chapter 3 of Genesis, verse 20 “And Adam called his wife’s name Eve, because she was the mother of all the living”   The bible also informs us in Psalm 139 verse 13, “for You (God) formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb.” 

Creator God, made no mistakes.   He created you, male or female and we all arrived here via our mother’s womb - even Jesus Himself, the Savior of humankind, “And she (Mary) will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1: 21)

The family unit is established by God Himself.  Each role, unique and equally important.  The bible reminds you and me to “Honor our mother.” (cf. Ex.20:12) 

We pause this week to pay special Honor to our Mother’s - present and past!

As we Honor and remember our Mother’s, let us all remember that the greatest honor is always owed to the Savior of our soul - Jesus.  And may we remember and  honor our Mother’s, present and past, by acknowledging Jesus as Lord of our life!

inCHRISTalone,

rodney

“Holy Spirit, breathe on me, fill me with power divine; kindle a flame of love and zeal within this heart of mine.  Breathe on me, breathe on me, Holy Spirit breathe on me; take thou my heart, cleanse every part, Holy Spirit breathe on me.”

• lyrics “Breathe on Me” by Edwin Hatch.

I believe the Holy Spirit has been neglected, misrepresented, misunderstood and abused.

The Holy Spirit (third person of the triune God) has many names and functions but I believe Paraclete describes Him the best.  Paraclete comes from the Koine Greek word παράκλητος (paráklētos). A combination of "para" (beside/alongside) and "kalein" (to call).

It appears in the Gospel of John where it may be translated into English as "counselor", "helper", “advocate”, or “comforter".

When Jesus promised in John chapter 16 that the Comforter will come “alongside” us, He meant that the Holy Spirit would help us in our time of need.  

The Holy Spirit is God’s agent who convicts humankind of sin and their need of a Savior and of repentance.  He empowers and equips God’s people for the task of witnessing.  He leads and guides us to recognize the truth of His word and brings honor and glory to Jesus Christ.  The Holy Spirit inspired biblical writers to record God’s revelation as penned in the canon of scripture - the Bible.

If you are lost and stumbling, He will guide you!  If you are discouraged, He will lift you up!  If you are grieving, He will sustain you with His presence.  He will be there when you need Him most - call on Him!

“Holy Spirit, breathe on me, fill me with power divine; kindle a flame of love and zeal within this heart of mine.  Breathe on me, breathe on me, Holy Spirit breathe on me; take thou my heart, cleanse every part, Holy Spirit breathe on me.”

“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5: 22-23)

In CHRIST alone,

rodney

“…you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.” - 1 Thess. 2: 13

Living the Resurrected Life!  

We’ve all heard the saying, “spring showers brings May flowers.”   I for one am looking forward to those “May flowers!”   Spring is one of my favorite seasons - everything springs back to life!   For that life to spring back to “fruitfulness” it takes water and plenty of sun shine.  Nothing pleases nor glorifies God more than when we “spring to life” in the spirit.  That is, we start walking in the spirit.  Walking means progression - we progressively and intentionally continue to put off the old self, and continually put on the new man/woman.  We surrender ourselves to the Holy Spirit and see ourselves having died to sin (the old man/woman) and having become alive with Christ.  I like how Galatians 2:20 puts it, “…it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me…”   God has given us all that we need to grow, so that our "inward man is being renewed day by day”   But we must prepare, or set, our heart to seek Him - “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you…” (James 4:8)  The Bible says that the truly blessed person is the one that “His delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night.  He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.” 

Part of preparing our heart to seek the Lord is living in light of Jesus’ return! In fact, the Bible calls that event “the blessed hope.” (cf. Titus 2: 13)

We plan and look forward to a lot of things in this life, but the most important is yet to come!   Are you living in light of Jesus’ return? 

“Maranatha!”  But until then, may we desire like the Apostle Paul that, 

“I may know Him and the power of His Resurrection!”

In CHRIST alone,

rodney

The Easter message was one of hope.   At the time to the disciples all was lost, their Lord was beaten, crucified and buried - all hope was lost.  But then Sunday came and hope was resurrected once and for all!  

The message of hope continues!   The bible reminds us in 2 Corinthians, chapter 4, “But we have this treasure (Jesus Christ) in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.  We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair, persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed - always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus may be manifested in our body.  For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh.  So then death is working in us, but life in you.” (verses 7-12)

For the message of hope to continue through us and to others, self has to get out of the way.  Its not about me or you.  We must not let our feelings and emotions get the best of us.  We must put pride and fear aside and focus on Jesus and His message to a lost world.

The bible reminds us (Christ followers) too, “not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God.”

To gain our sufficiency from God the sermon points gleaned last week from Matthew 17: 1-9 hold true, and that is: 1. We all need time to get alone with Jesus (social distancing);  2. We must see Jesus as He is (Savior and Lord); 3. The God of the Bible is not the God of the dead but of the living; 4.  We must see Jesus only (need His touch to take away fears and the see clearly - the big picture).

“Therefore we do not lose heart…our light affliction, which is but for a moment…things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (cf. 2 Corinthians 4: 16-18)

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.  Amen.”

In CHRIST Alone,

rodney

Happy Easter - He is Risen!

The Bible says, “…that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.” (1 Corinthians 15: 3-4)

For Christ to have died, He had to have lived.  He lived in the flesh just like you and me.  That means Jesus knows all about you.  He knows what it feels like to get hungry and thirsty.  He knows physical pain and emotional pain.  He knows what is to feel left all alone.  He knows disappointment and frustration.  He knows our weaknesses and our temptations - He lived!

The difference, Jesus lived to die for our sins.  The bible says, “For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you upon the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul.”

Jesus, God’s only begotten Son was the only one that could make atonement for the souls of humankind.  Humanities greatest need is the forgiveness of sin.  Jesus not only knows what it is live in the human flesh, He also knows what it is to die in the flesh.  The bible says that “the wages of sin is death.”   Jesus took on the penalty for sin (yet Himself without sin) - death and the grave.  He knows the agony of death for humankind.  Death is an awful separator in this life.  But praise God, Jesus conquered the grave and death - for He rose again!   Because He rose again, that means you and I will rise again too - not only in spirit, but in the flesh!  

The bibles says, “that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9);  “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)

Easter is the message of “Hope!” 

May we lift up our eyes, and see “Jesus” only! (cf. Matthew 17: 1-9)

Happy Easter - He is Risen Indeed!! 

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

People can be fickle, even God’s people.  Fickle defined as, “changing frequently, especially as regards one’s loyalties, interests, or affection.”

One minute we are on fire for the Lord and His church, the next minute, not so much.  Maybe we get our feelings hurt, or have a disagreement on a certain matter, etc…. and so our affection wavers.  There is one though that was never fickle - Jesus.  As Jesus made His way to the cross (Via Dolorosa - “way of suffering”) to redeem mankind through His atonement on the cross, not once did He waver.   Even as the crowd went from “Hosanna, Hosanna” to “crucify Him, crucify Him!”, not once did He waver or lose sight of His mission for mankind.  Though He was falsely accused, beaten, scourged with the “cat of nine tails”, thorns driven into His head, slapped, spit upon, carried His own cross, mocked, laughed at, and lastly crucified on the old rugged cross - never once did His loyalty or affection for mankind waver!  Jesus, the Son of Man, as the Son of God could have called thousands upon thousands upon ten thousand of angels to His side, but that call never came, instead we hear His words echoed from the cross, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” (cf. Luke 23: 34)  You see, Jesus came to save YOU and me, and that meant Jesus had to go to the cross.  But never forget, Jesus willingly did that for YOU, because He loves YOU!  His affection for you never changes - aren’t you glad Jesus is not fickle!?

My theme for 2020, “Dare to believe God for the Impossible” was challenged just three months into the New Year due to this covid 19 coronavirus pandemic.  The “seemingly impossible” has happened, but obviously was not what I had in mind.  Just remember, God’s plan to save mankind came about by a “seemingly impossible” way!   Let us continue to trust in God for the impossible.  Let’s work on not being fickle.  And remember these 7 last words or phrases of Jesus from the cross have the power to transform you, present and future: 1. Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do; 2. Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise; 3. Women, behold your son!; 4. My God, My God, why have you forsaken Me?; 5. I thirst; 6. It is finished; 7. Father, into your hands I commit My spirit.

Today, let’s examine ourselves and our affection for Jesus - He is worthy of the best of our time, talent and money!  “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain” - “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power.”

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

I, like everyone else am growing wearing of this virus - it has literally turned our world upside down.   Is this virus one of the signs of the end of time and the beginning of sorrows that Jesus spoke of in Matthew 24?  We don’t know, but we know that Jesus’ return is imminent, that is why Jesus warned, “watch…be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”   I pray that we use this time wisely and really examine our personal relationship with Jesus Christ - “examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith.  Test yourselves.  Do you know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you? - unless indeed you are disqualified.” (2 Corinthians 13: 5)

Times like this should help us to realize our own mortality - one in one die.  The bible reminds us that “it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgement, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many.  To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.” (Hebrews 9:27-28)

God loves you!  Jesus died for you!   This world is not your home, but the one that is to come!  The bible says, “let him who glories glory in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD” (cf. Jeremiah 9: 24)

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9)

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to  present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever.  Amen (Jude)

MARANATHA!

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

These are unprecedented times that we live in.  One can easily become anxious and fearful for the unknown that’s ahead.  Restrictions are escalating due to the COVID-19 virus, and for good reasons, causing emotional, mental and financial stress.   One could easily preach on the “end times” in circumstances like this, Jesus said not to be troubled for these things must come to pass…only the beginning of sorrows (cf. Matthew 24).

I am not going to speak on end times in this writing.  I do think self-examination, repentance, fasting and prayer are needful, not just for times like this but in all times and seasons of life.  My prayer is that we stick to the Bible as the sure foundation and the anchor of our souls.  Panic and fear are not biblical, at least not in the way the world is projecting it.  Yes, Godly, reverent fear is biblical.  One that drives us to our knees, His word and into His presence.  A reverent fear that worships Him for who He is - “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!…You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for you created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.” (cf. Revelation 4)

The bible reminds us, “have you not known, have you not heard?  The everlasting God, the LORD, the creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary.  His understanding is unsearchable.  He gives power to the week, and to those who have no might He increases strength.”

Since we are all forced to slow down and take more time off, lets “wait on the LORD!”  To those that do, the God of the bible promises, “those that wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” (cf. Isaiah 40: 28-31)

Yes these are anxious times, but I encourage you to focus your attention to the one who created time - and turn your eyes upon the Savior - JESUS!

“Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.”

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

Contagious, devastating infectious diseases have always been a part of the human race, to name a few: smallpox, plague, malaria, influenza, tuberculosis, HIVAIDS, cholera, rabies, pneumonia, mers, yellow fever, meningitis, syphillis, ebola, zika virus, sars, and now COVIC-19 virus, to just name a few.   My thoughts and prayers go out to the families that have lost loves ones, family and  friends to these diseases and the most resent virus.  For some of these diseases we have found a cure, for others there is no cure yet.

I’m thankful for the health agencies, health care workers and emergency personnel that are relentlessly working toward mitigating this virus and putting their own health at risk to save the lives of others.  There is one disease that man can never cure nor save himself from though, that is “sin.”  Sin is the worst and most devastating of all - “for the wages of sin is death (eternal).”  The bible says that “all have sinned.”   The human race has a sin problem and no cure, that’s the bad news.   The good news is the gospel!   Jesus came to cure sin!  Jesus said, “…My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.”  Remission is the “cancellation of a debt, or penalty.”  Jesus paid your sin debt.  Yes, the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ!   God sent Jesus on a rescue mission - to save you and me!  The bible is clear, “nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name (Jesus) under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

Come to Christ and live - He is the “cure!”  But you must receive Him (the vaccine) by faith!  The bible says, “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9-10)  “For whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved!” (Romans 10:13)   Praise the Lord!

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

“Have you not known? Have you not heard?  The everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary.  His understanding is unsearchable.  He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength.” (Isaiah 40: 28-29)

Some would question with resent world events, “where is this God of the Bible?”  It does feel that God is silent at times in our lives.   Some want to blame God for all the bad in our world or say “this or that” is God’s judgement upon mankind.  To that I would echo those words by Jesus in Matthew 22, “you are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God!”  God’s judgment came over 2,000 years ago, “for God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son!”  There were some 400 silent years from the last Old Testament prophet prophesying of the coming of Christ before He came on the scene.  Isaiah prophesied 700 years prior to Jesus’ coming.

But He came and “by His stripes we are healed!”  Yes, we still live in a fallen world and bad things happen.  But Jesus came so that we might have life and have it more abundantly.  Jesus is coming again and He will make all things new!  But until then we have to continue to trust in His word!   As Joshua reminds us, “not a word failed of any good thing which the LORD had spoken to the house of Israel.  All came to pass.”

Our faith is not based upon feelings and emotions but upon the power of God and His word.  When God seems silent, or when the troubles of this life come pressing in, lean on God and His word - He will not fail.

“God’s word is Him speaking to us in written form.  Always available.  Never silent.”

“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast” (Hebrews 6:19)

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

I invited (proposed) Becky to marry me over 39 years ago - she said, “yes.”   We both had just turned 19 years of age when we got married.   Our vows before God and witnesses were, “for richer or for poorer.  In sickness or in health.  For better or for worse - till death do we part.”

Although I cannot image my life without her now, I know that some day we will be separated by death.  Becky and I both accepted God’s invitation to accept His Son (Jesus) as our Savior and Lord.  We both believe the Bible to be God’s inspired word and the Bible says, “for the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” - that is the good news of the gospel!  Yes, death will someday part us in this life, but because of Jesus Christ we will be reunited someday in heaven!

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” (John 11:25)   God invites you and me to be a part of the eternal kingdom of heaven.   Jesus says, “Come to the wedding!”

(cf. Matthew 22), but you must accept the invitation - have you?!  I’m thankful that Jesus brings hope for today, tomorrow and beyond the grave!

I’m thankful because of Jesus I will never have to say goodbye to my loved ones who know Jesus too, but only “see you later” or  as the lyrics to my favorite song goes, “I’ll meet you in the morning!”

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

Life is a gift given by our creator - the LORD God!   We in return of the life received are stewards, for “it is your life.” (cf. Deuteronomy 32: 47)

God has given us free will, the power to choose.  We can choose to live life out for ourselves and worship the creation, or we can choose to live life out for a greater cause, our creator, and worship Him!  But it is your choice, for “it is your life!”   I am humbled when I think about the sanctity of life (“fearfully and wonderfully made,” psalm 139:13) and the brevity of life (“what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little while,” James 4: 14).  I am also in awe of the thought that someday I will stand before God and give an account of the life He has entrusted to me (“for we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ,” 2 Corinthians 5:10).

I am grateful that “God so loved [me] that He gave His only begotten Son, that [if I] believe in Him [I] should not perish but have everlasting life.” - but it is my life - I can choose to believe or not believe.  But as a steward of the life given, why would I choose eternal death over eternal life?!

By the continued/sustained grace and mercy of God I choose to: Highly esteem my relationship with Jesus; embrace God’s perspective of life; keep my eyes upon eternity; shape my life with the word of life; I will not 

be ashamed to be identified with Jesus Christ and His word; pass my faith on to the next generation!  “For [I know] it is not a futile thing for [me], because it is [my] life, and by this word [I] shall prolong my days in the land which [I someday will] cross over the Jordan to possess.”

(Deuteronomy 32: 44-47)

“It is my life” and I choose life!  How about you?!

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

“Blessed”

“God bless you is a common English expression, used to wish a person blessings in various situations, especially as a response to a sneeze, to say that you hope they have good health: “Achoo!” “God bless you.”’

“Said when saying goodbye to someone, to say that you hope good things will happen to them : Good night everyone, and God bless.”

“Bless your heart is a phrase that is common in the Southern United States. The phrase has multiple meanings. It can be used as a sincere expression of sympathy or genuine concern. It can be used as a precursor to an insult to soften the blow.”

“People often say things like "I've been blessed with good health.” That means they were lucky to receive such good things.”

“There is no way to be absolutely certain where the saying “God bless you” comes from but the custom continues into our day.  It is believed that during the plague of AD 590 Pope Gregory I commanded unceasing prayer and to say “God bless you” right after someone sneezed because sneezing was one of the first signs of the plague. It is nearly an automatic response. Ironically, some cultures believe that sneezing is a good sign; a sign of prosperity and health.”

"God Bless America" is an American patriotic song written by Irving Berlin during World War I in 1918 and revised by him in the run up to World War II in 1938. ... "God Bless America" takes the form of a prayer (intro lyrics "as we raise our voices, in a solemn prayer") for God's blessing and peace for the nation.”’

I prefer the blessing as penned in Numbers 6: 24-26, a prayer of Blessing given by God Himself.  A blessing for natural Israel and applicable to spiritual Israel - the people of God - past, present and future: “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.”

If you have the blessing of God, you are truly “Blessed!”   Now that we are blessed, let’s start living and acting like it!    God loves YOU and if you are His you are blessed - Happy Valentine’s Day!

In His Service,                                                                                                                                                                                         Pastor Rodney

Agape Love - “Unconditional” love!  Wow this is a tough one!  Who do you know that seriously loves you unconditionally at all times?   Who do you love unconditionally at all times?  Well, I fall short.  To love unconditionally at all times would require me to forget about my self for a moment, and sometimes I have to admit I fall short and self gets in the way.  I rarely feel that I’m loved unconditionally.  Don’t take me wrong, I have several people in my life that I know love me and I love them too, but unconditionally at all times…?

In our culture unfortunately we are constantly weighed and measured - that sounds conditional to me?   Sometimes we can get down because we feel unloved, or loved based on conditions.  And unfortunately this may be true in the world in which we live.  But there is one who loves you and me “unconditionally” - Jesus Christ!  He says come just as you are!  He says I “came to heal the brokenhearted and set the captive free!”  Jesus says, “come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (cf. Matthew 11:28)   Jesus died for you so that your sins can be forgiven.  No one else could do this - only God’s “only begotten Son!”  You and I don’t deserve forgiveness.  Neither can we buy it or earn it!  Wow - what a marvelous thing - God’s unconditional love!  God desires to extend His unconditional love to others through you and me.  To love others unconditionally even when we feel loved conditionally- is to love biblically.

“The Law of Love” is not an emotion nor a feeling, it is an act of the will.

Jesus said the world will know that you are my disciples, if you have love one for another. 

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

The bible reminds us in James “…you do not know what will happen tomorrow.  For what is your life?  It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” (4:14)   My condolences, thoughts and  prayers to all the families that have lost loved ones recently in several tragic events.  Oh Lord, “teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90: 12)   We are hit hard with the brevity of human life when we watch the news or when it hits close to home.

It should stir us to make “no more excuses” to live out our lives for Christ in our sphere of influences.   If you have been making excuses you are in good company - Moses had a few: “whom am I?; what shall I say?; what if they will not believe of listen to me?; I am not eloquent of speech; send someone else!” (cf. Exodus chapters 3 & 4)  We may have had one or all of those excuses as well, but like Moses we must get the focus off our inadequacies and onto the God of the Bible who will empower and equip us to fulfill the purpose for which He has called us.  He has called all of humankind to salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, and if you have answered that call by faith, then by faith you are called to be Jesus’ hands, feet and mouth piece to a world that desperately needs Him!   The same God that empowered Moses to fulfill his purpose is the same God that will help each one of us fulfill our purpose.   We can read the rest of Moses story.  Your story is still being written -what will it say?!

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

The first week of this New Year I challenged myself and others to “Dare to believe God for the Impossible!”   My second week into this New Year I challenged myself and others to go forward trusting in the Providential care of God as our Great shepherd (cf. Psalm 23).   My third week going into this New Year I was hit by a truck, not literally but figuratively.  I caught some kind of stomach virus that put me down for over two days, even as I pen this pastor’s desk I’m not feeling one hundred percent.  It raises the question, “If God is a loving then why…?”   Oh, my little stomach virus is nothing compared to what is going on in the lives of others and our world, I am fully aware of that, but it still raises the question why…?  If, like a puzzle, we frame in (edges and corners first) our world with the Bible we can find the missing pieces and find the “why” to our questions.   

We can trace all the evil going on in our world and the disturbances we are witnessing in nature itself to the original fall of mankind (Adam) - a big piece of the puzzle.  Romans 5:11 tells us “Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned.” - thats the bad, but necessary piece of the puzzle.  Here is the good piece of the puzzle, “for as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience (Jesus Christ) many will be made righteous.” (cf. Romans 5: 19)

Therefore, says Romans 5:1, “having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

We may not always understand the “why’s”, but we know the “Who” that will carry us through it. He promises, “fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are mine.  When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; when you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned…for I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”

(cf. Isaiah 43)

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

I believe in the God of the Bible.  I believe the Bible to be God’s inspired word to mankind.  I believe “in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”  I believe “for God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16).  I believe Jesus when He says that He will never leave me nor forsake me, even when I don’t sense His presence or when He seems silent.  I believe in my personal responsibility but I also believe in the providential care of a loving, caring God.  

“The LORD is my shepherd.”  I’m learning to be content.  He tries to “lead me to green pastures and beside still waters” so that my soul will be restored.  He leads me to a right way to live (righteousness,) if I will only listen to His voice and follow Him.   Although I may “walk beside the valley of the shadow of death” I have nothing to fear because He is with me from the cradle to the grave and all in between.  Though I have enemies and an enemy of my soul, He has given me His Holy Spirit so that I might experience joy to overflowing.  I recognize His goodness and mercy to me as I journey through this life with all its valleys and mountains.  When this life ends as I know it, I am thankful for the promise of eternal life and a place in His eternal home - because He promises!  (cf. Psalm 23)

Help me Jesus to hear your voice among all the noice of this life and to truly follow you!  May I truly experience “The LORD as my shepherd!”

How about you?! 

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

“Dare to believe God for the Impossible in 2020” is a theme I want to personally adopt for this New Year!  This theme is not based on feelings, emotions and “I hope so” but founded upon God’s word.  Jesus said, “…with God all things are possible.”   As a person of faith, as a Christ follower, I am to walk by faith and not by sight.  But neither is this theme a “name it and claim it” attitude.  It is a theme based upon a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and one based upon “the hope which is laid up for you in heaven.” (Colossians 1: 5)   It is a theme based upon “in all things He (Jesus) may have the preeminence.” - that is, Jesus having first place in my life.  As I move into 2020, “believing God for the impossible,” I also recognize my part in this covenant relationship.  Jesus is supreme, and we (I) must get rid of anything that keeps us (me) from glorifying Christ.  Jesus cannot be marginalized, He must have first place in our lives.  It must be may daily goal to please Him and honor Him.   I pray this New Year as I believe God for the impossible that I “may be filled with the knowledge of His will” and pray that I may “walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power!” (cf. Colossians 1: 9-18)

Happy New Year!  Dare to believe God for the Impossible in 2020 and may you be filled with the knowledge of His will as you walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him in 2020!

Godspeed!

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

George Muller once said, “Faith does not operate in the realm of the possible. There is no glory for God in that which is humanly possible. Faith begins where man’s power ends.”

Don Moen, stated: “God will make a way where there seems to be no way, He works in ways we cannot see.”

Jesus said, “…with men this is impossible, but with God ALL things are POSSIBLE!” (cf. Matthew 19: 26)

As we end another year, let’s be determined to go with God boldly into 2020 and “Dare to believe God for the impossible!”

Knowing that “if this plan or work is of men it will come to nothing, but if it is of God, you cannot otherthrow it - lest you even be found to fight against God.” (Acts 5: 38-39)

I’m not talking about New Year’s Resolutions, those things are humanly possible, even though statistically we don’t accomplish them for various reasons or excuses.

But I’m talking about those impossible things in our lives.  Those roadblocks, mountains, and/or giants in our lives that we just cannot humanly overcome or breakthrough.  Those things or places in our lives where we have come to a dead end with no exit, our Red Sea!

Those areas in our lives where we have done all that we can do, time and time again and failed or seen no fruit - those impossible things!

I dare to believe God for the impossible in 2020!  How about you?!

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever.  Amen (Jude 24-25)

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

The body of Christ is made up of a diverse group of redeemed people.  Individually we come from different backgrounds and vocations. We have uniques gifts, interests and passions.  We also have different strengths and weaknesses.   Our lives have taken us down different paths in life and ministry.  From the “onlooker” some of our paths have been one of ease (looks are deceiving).  For others it has been one of many heartaches, disappointments and set-backs.  But, no matter which path we find ourselves currently on, life in general has a way of “robing” us of our Joy.  Even the everyday routines and responsibilities of life can “squeeze” the Joy from our souls.  But does this have to be the case?  Can we live our lives without losing our “Joy?”  The Bible says, “yes.”   I believe the key is found in Psalm 16: 11, “…in your PRESENCE there is FULLNESS of JOY…”   As a Christ follower Jesus has promised He would never leave us nor forsake us.  He has promised His Holy Spirit to dwell in us and among us.  He has promised us eternal life!  He said that we are joint heirs with Christ, and that at His “right hand are pleasures forevermore!”   By staying in Jesus’ PRESENCE we can “count it all JOY!”  brothers and sisters when the path of life takes us down the road of trials of various kinds.                     (cf. James 1:2)  Yes we can live a life overflowing with JOY because of the PRESENCE of Christ in our lives!   “You make known to me the path of life; in your PRESENCE there is FULLNESS of JOY; at our right hand are PLEASURES FOREVERMORE!”  - Psalm 16: 11 (ESV)

“We are writing these things so that our JOY may be complete (FULL)” -    1 John 1:4 (ESV)   Give the Lord a shout of PRAISE! 

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

Jesus -the birth of “Love!”

God loves YOU!  That is the message of the Christmas season.  Have you experienced God’s love?  Have you received the most important Christmas present ever, the one that will last into eternity?!

The Bible says, “For God so loved the world (YOU) that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever (YOU) believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”  (cf. John 3:16)

Receive that all important gift today (today is the day of salvation) if you haven’t.  God’s greatest desire is to spend an eternity in heaven with YOU, and He has provided the way, but you must recognize that you are a sinner   before a Holy God in need of forgiveness.  Forgiveness that only comes via the cross through Jesus Christ.  Jesus was born to die for you and me.  The bible says, “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” 

God loves you with an everlasting love.  The bible says that NOTHING can separate you from the love of God - but you must come to Him in faith.

“He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (cf. John 3:18)

The “Christ”mas message - “God Loves YOU!”

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

“Advent” - the coming of Christ.  This is a past, present and future reality!  Past - Jesus came in the flesh.  Present - Jesus can dwell in you, via the Holy Spirit.  Future - Jesus is physically coming again at the end of time as we know it.  Jesus told us there would be signs of His coming again and the end of the age.  He told us that many of the things we are now experiencing are only “the beginning of sorrows.” (cf. Matthew 24)   You may find yourself currently in a good place in life.  You may currently be in a tough time right now or somewhere in between.  But the reality is that all of mankind is in a hopeless situation without Christ.  Jesus came to bring hope to the hopeless.  The Gospel is indeed good news!  The bible says that God is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”  The bible says that Jesus came to save us from our sins - mankind’s greatest need.  “…and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” (cf. Matthew 1:21)

Without the forgiveness of your sins you are in a hopeless state.  Jesus brought hope - hope for today, tomorrow and beyond the grave.

The bible says that nature itself is yearning for Christ’s return (cf. Romans 8: 18-22) when He will make ALL things new!

Jesus - the birth of “Hope!”  I pray you possess the hope Jesus brought!

“What a pleasure in life it is bringing!  What assurance and hope ever bright!  O what rapture and bliss are awaiting, when our faith shall be lost in the sight!  Tis a kingdom of peace, it is reigning within, it shall ever increase in my soul; we possess it right here when He saves from all sin, and t’will last while the ages shall roll.”

In Christ alone my hope is found!

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

Good Morning, afternoon or evening!  This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and “Be” glad in it!   I am “Thankful” that God is Sovereign.  We serve a God that neither slumbers nor sleeps - He knows our lying down, our rising up and all in between - He is in control!   God has said in His word, “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.” (Genesis 8: 22)

Hard to believe, but Thanksgiving is next week and the start of the Advent season to follow.  The Holidays can be hard for people though.  Depression can sit in during this time for various reasons, too many to pen in this writing.  But no matter your past or present circumstances and situation you can develop an attitude of Thanksgiving - it starts with your focus being on the one in whom I started this post with - The Lord!  The enemy of your soul, the devil, wants you to be discouraged and depressed and unthankful.  He wants you to look at all the negatives and disappointments of life.  But the lover of your soul - Jesus - He desires that you to be happy, content and at peace with your circumstances and situation.  He desires that you can “Make a joyful shout to Him.”  He desires that you “come before His Presence with singing.”  He wants you to “know that He is God.”  He wants you to know that “He has made you, you are His and He is your Great Shepherd.”  He desires that you develop an attitude of Thanksgiving, in season and out of season.  But how is this possible?!  By focusing on Him and His attributes.  “The Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations.” (cf. Psalm 100)   God loves YOU!  He sent His Son just for YOU!  It doesn’t matter what your past looks like.  You have a present and a future hope - “Come before His presence”  and “A Psalm of Thanksgiving Can Be Yours!”  And remember, “for here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come!” (Hebrews 13:14)    “Happy Thanksgiving!!!”

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

November and December is a busy time, but also a special time.  Special because we tend to be more intentional about getting together with family and friends.  Remembering too those that have passed away, out of our lives, but not out of our memory nor heart.  One sign of a healthy family is that you desire to be together, as dysfunctional at times we may be.  All families have their “issues”, but that doesn’t keep us apart.   One sign of a healthy Christ follower is that they desire to be with their church family, brothers and sisters in Christ.   In fact, Jesus says those relationships should be even closer!  Why is it so many forsake the assembly (ecclesia)?

Why? - when Jesus built His church, purchased at calvary.  Why? - when the Apostle Paul demonstrated the importance  of the ecclesia by planting churches.  In fact, of all the things Paul suffered, his greatest concern - “besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches (cf. 2 Corinthians 11: 28).  Why? - when the writer of Hebrews exhorts christians to hold fast their confession, “and let us  consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” (cf. Hebrews 10: 24-25)   I’ve heard all the excuses, if fact in my past I invented some of those excuses, but they’re just excuses and don’t hold weight when measured against the whole counsel of God’s word.

I pray as “professing believers”, we are not guilty of “forsaking the assembly.”  Go to church this Sunday.  One that preaches the whole counsel of God’s word and lifts up Christ!

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

A Soldier’s Prayer, Col. Lewis Millet

Metal of Honor - Korea, Feb. 7th, 1951

“I have fought when others feared to serve.  I have gone where others failed to go.  I’ve lost friends in war and strife, who valued duty more than love of life.  I have shared the comradeship of pain, I have searched the lands for men that we have lost.  I have sons who served this land of liberty, who would fight to see that other stricken lands are free.  I have seen the weak forsake humanity.  I have heard the traitors praise our enemy.  I’ve seen challenged men become even bolder, I’ve seen the duty, honor, sacrifice of the soldier.  Now I understand the meaning of our lives, the loss of comrades not so very long ago.  So to you who have answered duties siren call, may God bless you my son, may God bless you all.”

“Honor all people.  Love the brotherhood.  Fear God.  Honor the king.” - God’s Word (1 Peter 2:17)

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

Daylight savings time ends November 3rd…ugh.  Although by setting my clock back one hour I potentially gain an extra hour of sleep, I really am not a fan of the time change.  Although I didn’t get to have a say about it nor did I get to vote on it, I, like everyone else will make the proper preparation and adjust.  Time is our most valuable possession.  We none know how much time we have.  The recent tragedies this past year reminds us all of that.  Some would like to blame God for all the bad things that happen, but He is not the blame.  But, He would have us to be ready for if/when tragedy strikes.  In Ephesians, God reminds us “see then that you walk circumspectly (watchful, cautious), not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” (5:15-16)

Are you making preparations for “that day” when time ends?   Jesus said in Matthew 7 that “many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord…then I will declare to them, I never knew you…’”   You see, Jesus cannot be merely an acquaintance.  Jesus must be your personal Savior and Lord.  He must reign and rule in your heart - now!  Jesus desires a true and intimate relationship.  Jesus’ greatest desire is to spend an eternity with you and me.  What you do with time now, in relation to Him, will determine your time in eternity.  Yes, set your clocks back, but the most important clock to set is that one in your heart that - redeems the time!

“Awake, you who sleep!”

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

How would you define success?  Webster defines as, “degree or measure of succeeding.  Favorable or desired outcome.”

Put another way, “the achievement of something desired, planned or attempted.”

The 2 hour barrier for the Marathon (26.2 miles) was successful last week when Eliud Kipchoge ran 1:59:40 (4:34 per mile pace)!  Wow - thought to be humanly impossible! 

I know that not all can relate to this running time, nor do most of you really care, but my point is in how we measure success.  Here are some one sentence statements that can express success: setting goals; always doing your best; believing you can - 99% attitude, 1% aptitude; overcoming fear; learning something new; learning that losing a few battles help you win a war; loving and being loved; not giving up; celebrating small victories; balance work worth passion.  Winston Churchill said that, “success is being relentless!”  Can success really be defined in one sentence?  I believe it can - “I follow Jesus!”  Of all the things that we are successful at in this life, there is only one that we will carry on into eternity and that is - following Jesus!  The early believers lived and believed this.   Success in not comparing yourself to others, whether it be in earthly goals or spiritually.   There is danger in comparing ourself to others.  If I compared my running times to Eliud, I would be a failure and quite running.  If I compared myself to the late Rev. Billy Graham, I would be a failure and give up preaching.  We can all get in a trap of comparison.  The Apostle Peter had the same problem when Jesus foretold him of his future in John 21.  And Peter, seeing the Apostle John said, “But Lord, what about this man?”   Jesus’ answer to Peter is the same to you and me - “YOU follow Me!”    Let’s be careful how we measure success and quit the comparison game.  By the grace of God let us measure success by our commitment to “Follow Jesus”   The author and finisher of our faith!

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney

Have you heard the saying, “If there is one thing we learn from the scriptures, it’s that we never place a period where God has placed a comma.”   This saying is meant to help us move forward.  The challenge is discerning God’s will in our life.  Life has a way of putting up many walls  in our life that seem to be a period, or end of story.  Walls might come in the form of sickness, addiction, divorce, loss, tragedy, age, unmet expectations, unfulfilled dreams or hopes - to name a few.  We become tired and the task to move forward seems impossible or hopeless.  We start wondering if God is sovereign (all-knowing, all-powerful, ever-present) and loving, then why am I encountering this wall?  I certainly don’t have all the answers, but one thing I do know is that the God of Adam and Eve, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Esther, Job, Ruth, Daniel, Lazarus (to name a few) is also the God of you and me!  We can read the rest of their story to encourage us.  In each example they came up against an impossible and hopeless situation.  In each example God turned a wall into a testimony!  “Greater is He who is within you then he who is in the world’; ‘If God is for me, who can be against me”;  “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”; “No weapon formed against me shall prosper!”  This is not positive thinking, this is the truth of our God and His word.

God is faithful to see you forward.  Keep your eyes on the author and finisher of your faith and your walls, like Jericho - will come tumbling down (cf. Joshua 6).  Focus on Him, not the wall!

“O soul are you weary and troubled?

No light in the darkness you see?

There's light for a look at the Savior

And life more abundant and free.

Turn you eyes upon Jesus

Look full in His wonderful face

And the things of earth will grow strangely dim

In the light of His glory and grace.”

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney