tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69626015056618317802024-03-13T05:21:13.962-07:00God SpeakingRevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.comBlogger217125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-64162450640406227672023-10-17T13:41:00.000-07:002023-10-17T13:41:17.971-07:00"Poetry in Motion"<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">There was a time in my life when I used to write poetry. It was my way of expressing my feelings especially during times of struggle. Perhaps many of you remember having to examine poems as part of your English class curriculum in school. For some, studying poetry was a torturous exercise as the poet at times used words that made no sense and the struggle was to figure out the meaning behind the poet's intent. It's been a long time since I have written a poem but were you aware that God writes poetry everyday? Paul states in Ephesians 2:10, <b>"For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." </b>(NIV) <b> </b>The word "handiwork" has been translated in some Bibles as "work of art" but in the Greek the word is "poiema" from which we get our word "poetry." In Christ, God is writing a beautiful story in our lives. What is God's purpose in doing so? Paul states, <b>"to do good works,"</b> but not in some haphazard way that figuratively speaking has no rhyme or reason. No, these good works are prepared by the Master Poet in advance for us to do. The Creator of the universe knows us and gives us gifts and talents through His Holy Spirit to accomplish His will. It's amazing that God would take the time to prepare good works in advance for us to do like the poet who carefully puts together each line of the poem. </span></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">We Are A Living Expression Of God In Christ</span></h4><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The poem is an expression of who the poet is, their thoughts, hopes, and dreams. Thus, in Christ, we are a living expression of who God is when we commit to following Christ and obey His word. We don't have to scratch our heads trying to figure out what God's intent is when the Bible is our guide. Jesus tells us in Matthew 28:18-20, <b>"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." </b>(NIV) Furthermore, in Matthew chapter 5, Jesus calls us the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world" and states, <b>"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." </b>(Matthew 5:16 NIV) The same "good deeds" that God prepared in advance for us to do with the end result in bringing glory to God. We come to recognize a poet by the type of poetry they write in their own unique creative style. We are God's poetry in motion that others may come to recognize who He is in the way we live out our love and commitment to Him as well as our love and care for others in Jesus name. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Peace and Blessings,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIIDhKvcMkcFXgv8iyIdS3AdSRj6MdGnn1jrq-spzyB7BOadttbmC05egWYljISCqj_BtilwuM_kiAlk5BW5HMyx5PfTEh8IoqquIqLLTED3pNjfkWk9dwgsauQZj6tce8rHf-eHoYXTWhCsb21Uncxv4GxM8d2atbTS8_Y-K8UDGsUoJCzEhXpVhFs4/s1280/love-699480_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIIDhKvcMkcFXgv8iyIdS3AdSRj6MdGnn1jrq-spzyB7BOadttbmC05egWYljISCqj_BtilwuM_kiAlk5BW5HMyx5PfTEh8IoqquIqLLTED3pNjfkWk9dwgsauQZj6tce8rHf-eHoYXTWhCsb21Uncxv4GxM8d2atbTS8_Y-K8UDGsUoJCzEhXpVhFs4/w400-h266/love-699480_1280.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-37339963326292474372023-08-09T16:59:00.001-07:002023-08-09T16:59:13.200-07:00"Shame on you!"<p> <span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">I remember growing up hearing the expression, "shame on you!" when I had engaged in some behavior that did not meet parental expectations. Maybe you can relate? When I think about those words, covering someone in shame, figuratively speaking can inflict emotional wounds that an individual can struggle with for years. In today's culture there is no shortage of shame. Social media has made shame an everyday occurrence with total disregard for the negative consequences. I was recently meditating on a verse from the book of Romans. Paul in chapter 9 is lamenting over the unbelief of Israel and as a result God opens up the gospel to the Gentiles. In verse 9:33b Paul states, <b>"..the one who believes in Him will never be put to shame." </b>(NIV) </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red; font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">THE SHAME OF THE CROSS</span></span></h3><div><span style="color: red; font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><br /></span></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Jesus understood shame well. The act of crucifixion was meant to impart shame and totally degrade the crucified person. To add insult to injury, some people mocked Him, spit at Him, and challenged Him to prove His deity by coming down off the cross. (Matthew 27:40-43) The irony is that Jesus could have covered His accusers with shame by coming down from the cross but He endured the shame </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">to save us from our sins and </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">for the glory yet to come after His resurrection. The writer of Hebrews puts it this way, </span>"For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." <span style="font-weight: normal;">(Hebrews 12:2b NIV) One of the thieves who hung on a cross next to Jesus had a different take on the situation. In Luke 23:40-41 the thief acknowledged that he deserved to be punished for his crimes but Jesus had done nothing deserving of death. Then looking to Jesus he said, </span>"Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">(v.42 NIV) </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">"Jesus answered him, </span>"Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in paradise."<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">(v.43 NIV) </span></span></h3><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red; font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">FREE FROM CONDEMNATION</span></h3><div><span style="color: red; font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">The thief who made the request of Jesus demonstrated the reality of Romans 9:33b. He believed in Jesus and in essence scorned the shame for a glory that Jesus promised him. What a gift! I wonder what that thief felt hearing those words from Jesus. The good news is that we like that thief are all guilty of engaging in sinful behaviors that evoke a wagging finger and a verbal condemnation, "shame on you!" However, because Jesus came and lived among us, was crucified, died, was buried, and resurrected, we no longer have to live condemned or be covered with shame. Paul states in Romans 8, </span>"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death."<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">(Romans 8:1-2 NIV) What shameful things have you done in the past that you are still carrying today? Jesus wants you to scorn that shame and commit your life to following Him so that like the thief on the cross you can experience hope, receive eternal life, and one day enter into the kingdom of God. </span></span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Glory to His name!<span style="color: #783f04;"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6PIi5S_RnLfGMeffv8-rGcMzbhElubovVf3sCgYyLAahEBfqmnWmQYEMhMOMmuy7Ms2NoTwuFG2zaMvDWWMfvPk_AHP4Mo8KhQlAEVyNRdHSfF89iYZYuVPBJUl61gBHfCM0JVykWlDbXB-hlCvDXgFCRcv2Mk0QArii1ejYYf-BPPFpJEFWKoMsoPHQ/s1280/faith-4411141_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6PIi5S_RnLfGMeffv8-rGcMzbhElubovVf3sCgYyLAahEBfqmnWmQYEMhMOMmuy7Ms2NoTwuFG2zaMvDWWMfvPk_AHP4Mo8KhQlAEVyNRdHSfF89iYZYuVPBJUl61gBHfCM0JVykWlDbXB-hlCvDXgFCRcv2Mk0QArii1ejYYf-BPPFpJEFWKoMsoPHQ/w400-h266/faith-4411141_1280.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-32542484431837678722023-07-04T09:18:00.000-07:002023-07-04T09:18:05.747-07:00The Storm Before The Calm<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I happen to enjoy thunderstorms. </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">The power that is demonstrated in the wind, the flashes of lighting, and the rain remind me of the majesty of God. </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">I realize that not everyone shares my feelings or is so enthralled with thunderstorms. There's the reminder that amidst the power is the potential for damage from lighting strikes which can spark fires or even shut down electricity. Additionally, there's the threat to human life, if someone is caught out in the open and is struck by lightning. </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">Typically after a thunderstorm passes, there is a calm and quietness as the sun emerges along with blue sky. If the storm takes place at night, after its passing, the stars emerge in all their brilliance. In the gospel of Mark, we read about the disciples who were caught in a storm and how Jesus intervened. </span></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">THE POWER OF THE SPOKEN WORD</span></h4><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">It was evening and Jesus with His disciples were crossing the Sea of Galilee after Jesus had finished a long day of ministering to the people. We are told that Jesus fell asleep on a cushion in the stern of the boat. A furious storm came up and the disciples panicked, fearing they might drown as the boat became nearly swamped. In their distress they cry out to Jesus to save them. Mark tells us, <b>"He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm." </b>(Mark 4:39 NIV) Jesus challenges them regarding their lack of faith. Mark tells us the disciples were terrified and questioned, <b>"Who is this? Even the wind and waves obey Him!" </b>(Mark 4:41 NIV) I find it interesting that Jesus chooses to speak to the wind and the waves. He could have just raised His hand commanding all to be calm without saying a word. Why speak? The Bible doesn't answer the question, however the spoken word has power and influence as evidenced by the disciple's response. We have all experienced having someone say something to us whether it be kind or unkind and the feelings that those words stir up within us. Just like the disciple's reaction, we also react to what is spoken to us. Jesus' words bring me to a point of reaction and reflection. They remind me of the storm, <b>"Quiet!"</b> (stop the noise and distraction!) before the calm, <b>"Be still!" </b>(let My peace and calm settle your soul.)</span></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">HOW WILL WE REACT TO THE STORMS OF LIFE?</span></h4><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"> Life presents us with many storms. Some of these storms can be significant enough to leave us in a state of panic and despair just like the disciples. However, when we call upon the Lord, is our faith able to lead us to a place of resting in the peace of knowing God is in control? In the thunderstorms of life, I recognize the potential threat to my emotional well-being but I am also reminded of the power of the One who is sovereign over all of nature. Jesus is the One who brings the calm after the storms. What He asks of us is to have the faith to trust Him. Jesus' question to His disciples is the same question His followers are challenged with today, <b>"Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" </b>(Mark 4:40 NIV.) The Bible does not place a percentage on how much faith His followers need to have as a measure of our commitment to God. Jesus Himself told His disciples in Luke 17 after they asked the Lord to increase their faith, <b>"If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you." </b>(Luke 17:5-6 NIV) Jesus was trying to emphasize that faith in Him no matter how great or small is the foundation upon which we remain rooted and strengthened to persevere as we navigate the storms of life. We often hear and are more familiar with the expression "the calm before the storm." While this statement is true whether we are talking about an actual weather related event or situations and circumstances in our lives, we need to ask the question, what happens after the storm? Will we abandon all hope? or rest in the peace of God, who in Jesus Christ brings restoration, renewal, and ultimately resurrection to all who place their trust in Him. Jesus is our hope and rescue in the storms of life. We can rest in the assurance of knowing that Jesus sees the concerns of our hearts, He cares, and will meet us where we are at, leading us to "calmer waters."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Peace and Blessings,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8kceFAAf04FMb-zqdsuOqeF-5o9-9itnaPDyPrxdya74SIzXv62LUWyGPLD2joC4RORdeLxX9VYk8wlkLUZ_3BhDe1rh6Z0XJIOrHmZYZo7INfHJb4xbDpfSE0pbTNzdixN7VVeMkFwkhFqa4MgoLl-oGah9HCDt1JNzGMPGtpCZ3FRf3jxRgCzlhi8/s1280/jesus-7220025_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8kceFAAf04FMb-zqdsuOqeF-5o9-9itnaPDyPrxdya74SIzXv62LUWyGPLD2joC4RORdeLxX9VYk8wlkLUZ_3BhDe1rh6Z0XJIOrHmZYZo7INfHJb4xbDpfSE0pbTNzdixN7VVeMkFwkhFqa4MgoLl-oGah9HCDt1JNzGMPGtpCZ3FRf3jxRgCzlhi8/w400-h266/jesus-7220025_1280.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-28950644619109796102023-04-08T04:10:00.001-07:002023-04-08T04:10:26.659-07:00From Hosanna To Hallelujah!<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Holy Week is that special time of year when followers of Jesus Christ remember and acknowledge Christ's sacrifice on the cross for the sins of the world. The celebration culminates on Easter Sunday which is the most significant day of the year and the foundation of Christianity. Christianity is anchored in the reality that Jesus Christ rose from the dead. We have the gift of hindsight in understanding the significance of why Jesus came and how His crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection changed history and changes lives. This is the heart of the gospel or "good news" for whoever believes in and commits their life to following Jesus. <b>(John 3:16) </b>However, when Holy Week events occurred in real time, the people had a different idea of who Jesus was and what He came to accomplish. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: verdana;">SEARCHING FOR A SAVIOR AND KING</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The Jewish people had been under great oppression by the Roman government. They had long prayed for deliverance and were looking for the Messiah to come who would not only free them from bondage but overthrow the Romans once and for all according to the Biblical Old Testament prophecies. The Sunday prior to Easter which we recognize as Palm Sunday begins the Holy Week remembrance. On that day the people celebrated Jesus triumphal entry into Jerusalem as some spread their cloaks and others palm branches on the road before Him. The people cried out, <b>"Hosanna!" "Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!" "Hosanna in the highest heaven!" </b>(Mark 11:8-10 NIV) </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">The word "Hosanna" translated means "Save us, now!"</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">It was in essence a coronation of a king not in the same way the Roman Empire welcomed their conquering kings with pomp and circumstance, but rather the Jewish people remembered the words of the prophet Zechariah, </span><b style="font-family: verdana;">"Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your King comes to you righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey!" </b><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Zechariah 9:9 NIV) What the people and the disciples didn't anticipate was Jesus' arrest and ultimate crucifixion like a common criminal. The "conquering king" that the people celebrated, the miracle working, compassionate, healing Master that the disciples followed appeared defeated by the Romans, once again dashing the people's hopes on the rocks of despair. However, three days later their Hosannas turned into Hallelujahs as Jesus conquered sin and death and rose from the grave! </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: verdana;">WE HAVE A SAVIOR AND KING!</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Our world today is once again crying out, "Hosanna" "Save us now!" However, the cries are not for the arrival of a conquering king to free us from oppressive government rulers but rather people are seeking salvation and hope from the oppression of this world system. A world that is steadily growing darker with violence, racism, hatred, and confusion. A world in which people are engaging in behaviors that are unfolding just as Timothy declares would be representative of the last days prior to Jesus' return. <b>(2 Timothy 3:1-5)</b> A world that is calling evil good and good evil as the prophet Isaiah declares, <b>"Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter." </b>(Isaiah 5:20 NIV) Easter is the day that our Hosannas are turned into Hallelujahs! The word "Hallelujah" is translated, "Praise Yahweh!" Jesus has freed us from sin and death. In the gospel of John we read, <b>"For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him." </b>(John 3:17 NIV) The world's cries for help have not gone unheard. God has saved us through the resurrection of His Son! This is what Easter is all about and what believers celebrate on earth will be carried into eternity. Christ will triumphantly come again as King of kings and Lord of lords and His faithful followers will live with Him forever. In John's vision in the book of Revelation he sees a celebration of heavenly hosts saying, <b>"The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Messiah, and He will reign for ever and ever!" </b>(Revelation 11:15 NIV) Let all of heaven and earth celebrate our conquering King! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">HALLELUJAH, HE IS RISEN!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgroUGBmzAxqCKJQnnpxq9v4D7Wasanje75hDvmy5t2QjDgytbueVshZWLRlzuhiqtf-oUZteBxySfugUuBrCN6HuY65I4w6wdn_4WXQlwXPPgMss_LMhyWIwE3yCZ_g4lGm39qkuMr48yC_a4bcO-vdi0WJ2sUJIL5YkWyatHF585FiKCmK6jZhmi1/s849/jesus-4779543__480.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="849" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgroUGBmzAxqCKJQnnpxq9v4D7Wasanje75hDvmy5t2QjDgytbueVshZWLRlzuhiqtf-oUZteBxySfugUuBrCN6HuY65I4w6wdn_4WXQlwXPPgMss_LMhyWIwE3yCZ_g4lGm39qkuMr48yC_a4bcO-vdi0WJ2sUJIL5YkWyatHF585FiKCmK6jZhmi1/w400-h226/jesus-4779543__480.webp" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-61677105186183777972023-01-04T16:26:00.000-08:002023-01-04T16:26:04.840-08:00Happy New You!<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">It's a familiar scene every December 31st. Crowds of people huddled together in Times Square, New York, waiting with anticipation for the ball to drop ushering in a New Year. At the end of 2022, there was even more excitement for people to be gathered together after missing out during the covid pandemic. The countdown begins at 11:55 as the ball slowly makes its way down the pole until at 12am, the New Year's sign lights up 2023! The crowd cheers, couples embrace, confetti falls, and there's a renewed sense of hope that the old year is erased and somehow the New Year is going to be better. However, the reality is that although the page has turned on an old year, the New Year doesn't guarantee much in the way of change or even hope. People make New Year's resolutions that are quickly forgotten, there are ongoing wars and conflicts in various parts of the world, our government remains in chaos, and yes, the "c" word "covid" hangs on with new variants popping up faster than epidemiologists are able to keep track. People want to believe that situations and circumstances will improve but the reality is the hope that the world offers can become at times nothing more than wishful thinking. </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">So what is there to look forward to? </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">We Can Become New!</span></span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The Bible offers a hope that goes beyond wishful thinking. In fact the Bible talks about how individuals can become new. This is not a resolution but a revelation! This is not something that takes place only at the beginning of a New Year but can take place each and every day of each and every year. Paul states in 2 Corinthians 5:17, </span><b style="font-family: verdana;">"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here!" </b><span style="font-family: verdana;">(NIV) In Jesus Christ there is a hope that is permanent, purposeful, and eternal. All of our sins have been forgiven, past, present, and future through the shedding of His blood and His resurrection. We don't need to resolve that we will do better next year, for in Christ we don't have to earn our way to God. In Christ, God sees us as His children and as co-heirs with Christ and gives us His Holy Spirit. Paul tells us in Romans, </span><b style="font-family: verdana;">"For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him we cry, <i>Abba</i>, Father. The Spirit testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory." </b><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Romans 8:14-17 NIV) </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">God Is At Work</span></span></h3><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"> <span style="font-weight: normal;">God has promised us that He is actively in the process of making everything new and we will one day see and experience a new heaven and a new earth and not merely continue on with the same difficulties rolling into another New Year. </span></span><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Revelation 21:1-5) </span><span style="font-family: verdana; font-weight: normal;">So as we move through 2023, we will face many challenges ahead of us, some carried over from last year and some new to this year. Jesus tells us,</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">"In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." </span><span style="font-family: verdana; font-weight: normal;">(John 16:33b NIV) This good news is our real and true hope for the years to come!</span></h4><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Peace and blessings,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_7v_BguvwqcyaynxpOyTszx1pL3k9OufP3cpQmPrQFWClWXce0S6-q2dHAvZd8hEjT4_3yf7hlsf_l-cyHQcVi_NQEIHfYKeZfhk-kuZar1LM8OFuXSzDUvoEuEkLL7lYd8HmYubVgNsJ24eOWPdF3EnWxfFaGZS7nBaFViBG5ojn39U2MmB-v2E7/s821/year-7591314__480.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="821" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_7v_BguvwqcyaynxpOyTszx1pL3k9OufP3cpQmPrQFWClWXce0S6-q2dHAvZd8hEjT4_3yf7hlsf_l-cyHQcVi_NQEIHfYKeZfhk-kuZar1LM8OFuXSzDUvoEuEkLL7lYd8HmYubVgNsJ24eOWPdF3EnWxfFaGZS7nBaFViBG5ojn39U2MmB-v2E7/w400-h234/year-7591314__480.webp" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-84540478177097875752022-12-09T18:02:00.000-08:002022-12-10T11:23:43.999-08:00What's On Your Christmas List?<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Prior to starting my work day, I like to get up early and exercise. I have equipment in my basement and a CD player where I listen to music while exercising. Since it is the Christmas season, I have been listening to some of my favorite contemporary Christian artists. One of my favorite artists is Amy Grant. She recorded a song many years ago that is still played during the Christmas season. It's entitled, <b>"My Grown Up Christmas List."</b> In the song she contrasts how the things she longed for on her Christmas list as a child changed dramatically as an adult. The refrain states, <b>"No more lives torn apart, That wars would never start, And time would heal all hearts. And everyone would have a friend, And right would always win, And love would never end, This is my grown up Christmas list." </b>Doesn't this refrain echo the feelings of so many of us in this world filled with chaos, hatred, wars, and destruction? In fact the sentiments in the refrain of this song can be repeated year after year. Is there any hope that these song lyrics will ever come true? The answer is a resounding <b>YES! </b></span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">JESUS IS THE ANSWER</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">This reality came true in the birth of the One we celebrate this Christmas season. God sent His Son into the world as the gift of hope for a world in darkness. Jesus' birth, life, death, burial, and resurrection brought purpose to life in the midst of a fallen world and eternal life for all who are committed to follow after Him. In Revelation 21:1-5, God provides an answer to the refrain of the song. <b>"Then I saw "a new heaven and a new earth," for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Look! God's dwelling place is now among the people, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then He said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." </b>While this vision that John experiences speaks of what is yet to come when Christ finally returns the second time as reigning and conquering King, the Old Testament foreshadows the coming of Christ the first time in Messianic passages such as Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6; and Isaiah 11:1-6. Many of the Old Testament prophets like Isaiah were prophesying to the people at a time of great turmoil when it appeared there was no hope. I have no doubt the people at that time could empathize with the refrain of Amy Grant's song. </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">In the New Testament we read about the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies in Christ.</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(56, 118, 29);">TRUE HOPE</span></span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"> So what's on your grown up Christmas list? Does your heart's desire echo the refrain of the song? Do you grow weary in hoping that things will get better with each Christmas and New Year? Do you live a life filled with purpose and hope? It is possible and the words Amy Grant sings in her refrain are made real in Jesus Christ. That is the reason we celebrate Christmas. For our hope does not lie in what this world has to offer but in the One who is the hope of the world! </span><b style="font-family: verdana;">"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." </b><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Isaiah 40:28-31 NIV) </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Have a blessed Christmas!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFQJrw0ZdsVnKRVYMR0RmCmX7CmMHI0Cnb5luX4KAAMY0nTVqMt3M_lIif2V3Jx703O8Xg4hqKBITVz_-BFZQwFCN8vQR1ST03ch2jar3t9hAs0lWyD9VIoS-dmwCeL4fwYRIKFcKOqXvaPL7QeqMeOzgrAZWPknxMZ2eXausKQq53Yb5n6bdpxs9F/s1280/jesus-5630304_1280.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="1280" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFQJrw0ZdsVnKRVYMR0RmCmX7CmMHI0Cnb5luX4KAAMY0nTVqMt3M_lIif2V3Jx703O8Xg4hqKBITVz_-BFZQwFCN8vQR1ST03ch2jar3t9hAs0lWyD9VIoS-dmwCeL4fwYRIKFcKOqXvaPL7QeqMeOzgrAZWPknxMZ2eXausKQq53Yb5n6bdpxs9F/w400-h214/jesus-5630304_1280.png" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-2636605500594479032022-08-24T12:21:00.001-07:002022-08-24T12:21:05.270-07:00Weapons For War<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">August 24, 2022 marks the celebration of Independence Day for the people of Ukraine. It is also 6 months to the day since Russia invaded Ukraine and started what seems to be a never ending conflict. One of the consistent requests of Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky from the United States and its allies is for more weapons that will be able to counter the onslaught of Vladimir Putin's army. So far the Ukrainian forces have been able to hold off a total takeover of their country, however the war has taken a devastating toll on Ukraine and its people. Do you realize, we are also in a war? It is a battle that is ongoing and never ending. It's not a war that results in the destruction of material possessions or even displacement to another state or country. It is an unseen battle. A struggle for something more precious than any thing on this earth. It is a spiritual battle for the souls of humanity. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">THE ENEMY IS FORMIDABLE.</span></span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The Bible tells us that our opponent is Satan, which is not his name, but rather it means the "Adversary." Peter alerts believers in 1 Peter 5, <b>"Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." </b>(1 Peter 5:8 NIV) The imagery is very powerful! Jesus also warns His followers in the gospel of John, <b>"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." </b>(John 10:10 NIV) Here again from the lips of Jesus we read some graphic and intense language. The reality is the devil ain't playin'! So, given the gravity of the situation, where do we get our weapons for war? Where are our reinforcements for this unseen battle? Conventional weapons like rockets, bombs, and guns will not be able to fight this battle. The apostle Paul is quite clear about the challenge we face, <b>"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." </b>(Ephesians 6:12 NIV) </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">OUR WEAPONS ARE GREAT.</span></span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">What appears like a hopeless situation is actually a hope-filled opportunity. For we have the greatest and most powerful ally on our side, the God of the universe! His Presence is our greatest weapon! Paul tells us that God Himself even supplies us with our "battle gear" to take on the challenges we face. <b>"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can stand against the devils schemes....Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the <i><span style="color: red;">belt of truth</span> </i>buckled around your waist, with the <i style="color: red;">breastplate of righteousness </i>in place</b></span><b style="font-family: verdana;"><i>,</i> and your feet <i><span style="color: red;">fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace</span>. </i>In addition to all this, take up the<i> <span style="color: red;">shield of faith</span>, </i>with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the <i><span style="color: red;">helmet of salvation</span> </i>and the <i><span style="color: red;">sword of the Spirit</span>, </i>which is the word of God. And <i><span style="color: red;">pray in the Spirit</span></i> on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people." </b><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Ephesians 10-11;13-18 NIV) The weapons used to fight a visible enemy have the potential to be destroyed or rendered inoperable. However, the weapons God has given us will never become exhausted or worn out. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: verdana;">GOD IS WITH US.</span></h3><div><span style="color: #990000; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Our responsibility is to be prepared to use what's available to us by the grace of God to fight each day's battle. The good news is we are not fighting the war alone. God is with us! The Psalmist declares, </span><b style="font-family: verdana;">The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation." </b><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Psalm 18:2 NIV) Today, we as believers can be encouraged with the same words with which Moses encouraged the Israelites when they faced a seemingly impossible situation at the Red Sea, </span><b style="font-family: verdana;">"The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still." </b><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Exodus 14:14 NIV) I am sure the Ukrainian people are tired of the conflict. Likewise,</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> we as believers sometimes grow weary from the spiritual battle as well as life's challenges. </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">However, we have already won the victory over our adversary through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Moreover, when Jesus established His church, He guaranteed that the gates of hell would not prevail against it. </span><b style="font-family: verdana;">(Matthew 16:17-19) </b><span style="font-family: verdana;">So take heart and keep "suiting up" every day with the armor of God as we await the return of our King!</span></div><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Hallelujah!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJHxw8fqaeKa5r0-lO6koBqmNL97wnZ0A8vlejoFCxZBkhI9fE-IDOKFfyktL2lge_yyv5zFXdMa1qpak_hsXne1ERJUTKT3THqrhc00O7lVqT-GbaaTlFQD4HuXNjkc1YRgBH3lYHBNqQtupHYnhZrXrxxGMCz1lY4u_WtGLRzADjBrGOOGVDPorv/s480/knight-4273450__480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJHxw8fqaeKa5r0-lO6koBqmNL97wnZ0A8vlejoFCxZBkhI9fE-IDOKFfyktL2lge_yyv5zFXdMa1qpak_hsXne1ERJUTKT3THqrhc00O7lVqT-GbaaTlFQD4HuXNjkc1YRgBH3lYHBNqQtupHYnhZrXrxxGMCz1lY4u_WtGLRzADjBrGOOGVDPorv/w320-h320/knight-4273450__480.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-2564663237378805192022-03-09T15:36:00.002-08:002022-03-09T15:36:18.431-08:00Pride and Power, Pain and Poverty<p> <span style="font-family: verdana;">I am guessing many of you have been following the events unfolding between Russia and Ukraine. The daily images of destruction compounded by the growing humanitarian crisis as many Ukranian people flee their homes and ultimately their homeland. There's the uncertainty of not knowing if they will ever be able to return to Ukraine or whether families will be reunited with their husbands, fathers, and sons who remained behind to fight in the war. Vladimir Putin appears to be motivated among other things by pride and power, while leaving the Ukrainian people in a state of poverty and pain. During my devotional time I was reading about a similar contrast in Mark chapter 10. Two stories are juxtaposed to each other. One story emphasizing power and pride, the other poverty and pain. Jesus' reaction to both situations demonstrates His feelings about these issues. </span></p><p><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"><b>A STARTLING REQUEST</b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">In Mark 10:35-45, James and John, the sons of Zebedee make a request of Jesus. </span><b><span style="font-family: verdana;">"Teacher," </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">they said, we want You to do for us whatever we ask.".... </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">"Let one of us sit at Your right and the other at Your left in Your glory." </span></b><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Mark 10:35,37 NIV) The feeling one may experience is, "Are you kidding me?" The request comes across as selfish and flies in the face of Jesus' heart for humility and serving others. The brothers didn't appear to demonstrate any hesitancy in their request. They wanted to grab the opportunity and "strike while the iron was hot" with total disregard for the other ten disciples. It's the feeling one may get when you've been waiting in line for a long time for your turn and someone jumps the line or cuts in ahead of you. The text goes on to say, </span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>"When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John."</b> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">(v.41 NIV) You think? I can imagine them thinking, "Thanks a lot my so-called "brothers." Jesus brings the Twelve together and quickly deflates the "pride and power" balloon as He emphasizes the attitude of servant-leadership. The ultimate example was to be illustrated by the Lord Himself as He tells them, </span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and give His life as a ransom for many."</b> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">(v.45 NIV) The One who was worthy to be served instead became a servant for the sake of humanity. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>A HUMBLE PLEA</b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The next story, Mark 10:46-52, leads us into Jericho where a man named Bartimaeus was sitting by the roadside begging. The text tells us he was blind, so not only was he impoverished but in pain emotionally because of his loss of sight. The text does not tell us when or how he became blind so there is no sense of knowing how long he had been a beggar. However, in Jesus day, people who suffered from some kind of physical infirmity were often blamed as having sinned or experiencing the results of family sin similar to the story of the blind man whom Jesus healed in John chapter 9. The reaction to his calling out when he heard that Jesus was approaching indicated how rejected he was as a human being. We read, </span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>"Many rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!"</b> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Mark 10:48 NIV) The message from the crowd was clear, "Jesus doesn't have time to waste on the likes of you!" Bartimaeus had nothing to lose, so he kept on shouting. To the crowds surprise, Jesus stops and calls him over. Can you imagine what Bartimaeus may have been feeling? Someone noticed, someone cared, and it was Jesus Himself! Jesus asks the same question of Bartimaeus that He asked of James and John in Mark 10:36 when they brought their request to Him.<b> </b></span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>"What do you want Me to do for you?"</b> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">(v.51a NIV) Instead of pride or power, Bartimaeus' request was simple and humble, </span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>"Rabbi, I want to see."</b> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">(v.51b NIV) Jesus honors his request that flows from a heart of faith and restores his sight. Bartimaeus, then follows Jesus along the road. The text doesn't indicate if Bartimaeus became a life long follower of Jesus but it's hard to turn back when your poverty and pain has been transformed into freedom and deliverance. </span></p><p><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"><b>GOD HAS THE FINAL WORD</b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I believe Jesus made it quite clear from these two stories that power and pride have no place in the kingdom of God. However, God is not unaware of situations where poverty and pain exists. So, as we continue to follow the events in Ukraine, it may appear that power and pride will seize the day. However, God remains Sovereign and He has the last word. In the Bible we're told, </span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>"Though the Lord is exalted, He looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty, He sees them from afar."</b> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Psalm 138:6 NIV); </span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>"He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed." </b></span><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Proverbs 3:34 NIV);<b> </b></span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>"For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." </b></span><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Matthew 23:12 NIV); and finally </span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>"God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble." </b></span><span style="font-family: verdana;">(James 4:6 NIV) Keep praying for God's intervention and peace to prevail in Ukraine!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Shalom,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><b>Pastor Sheree</b></i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i></i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4j0mYFUUo48wp8MfSfpsk9mt4QQ5iIMGiENi4BuN-Toj377L0RrmLtsFpHXipTc44HXgZ7sfUUfjRcms2Z4S6ZJ5ZLrx8Ssz5jR8koBQrXtFXXrGv0rImxlpRO59zXM6M73VLF8G9wOPEtJ_cm2NgGx2yS3yFsoAS9S7QlwRT0h5szXDr0FcbPP6r=s853" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="853" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4j0mYFUUo48wp8MfSfpsk9mt4QQ5iIMGiENi4BuN-Toj377L0RrmLtsFpHXipTc44HXgZ7sfUUfjRcms2Z4S6ZJ5ZLrx8Ssz5jR8koBQrXtFXXrGv0rImxlpRO59zXM6M73VLF8G9wOPEtJ_cm2NgGx2yS3yFsoAS9S7QlwRT0h5szXDr0FcbPP6r=w400-h225" width="400" /></a></i></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><br /><b><br /></b></i></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-3906624717111317382022-02-01T18:07:00.001-08:002022-02-01T18:07:42.765-08:00"United We Stand, Divided We Fall."<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">In 2007, a group called "The Brotherhood of Man" released an album called "Save Your Kisses For Me." One of the popular songs on the album was entitled, "United We Stand." The theme of the song focused on the love between a man and woman and their commitment to each other. The refrain goes <b><i>"For united we stand, Divided we fall, And if our backs should ever be against the wall, We'll be together, together, you and I." </i></b>How times have changed! The refrain of this song could have easily been a theme to describe the relationship of believers with each other. Sadly, the divisions that we are witnessing in the culture today have bled into the fabric of the body of Christ dividing rather than uniting believers. There are not only political divisions but unfortunately racial separation remains a reality in the church. The month of February has been designated as Black History month and I wonder how many non-black churches will be preaching a message at some point during the month on racial issues in the church and the need for racial reconciliation? I would encourage my white brothers and sisters to take note of the messages preached this month in your home churches. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: verdana;">A Time Of Unity, A Time Of Growth</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The book of Acts describes a time when the church was closely knit together and united with one sole purpose of reflecting Christ to the world. This was demonstrated in their love for one another which Jesus stated in John 13:34-35 would be the hallmark and distinguishing characteristic of His followers. In Acts 2:42-47 following Peter's address after the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost we read, <b>"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." </b>(NIV) Did you notice how many times unifying words were used in that small verse? The words "<b>they</b>," "<b>all,</b>" "<b>together</b>," and "<b>everyone</b>." The fruit of such unity was the growth of the church.</span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: verdana;">Ethic Division Is Not An Option</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"> Jesus was quite clear in His message to the disciples in Acts 1:8 that the gospel was not solely to be about people who shared common ethnic characteristics but it was to be taken far and wide to all nations. We see the message being reinforced that ethnic division was not an option in Acts 6; Acts 8; Acts 9; and Acts 10. We can't ignore the cultural context or the time period of the book of Acts. We do live in a Western culture in the 21st century. However, the hearts of the early disciples were in tune with the Holy Spirit and Jesus prayer in John 17:23 for the unity of His followers is not limited to a particular culture or time in history. The early church was not perfect and if you read through the book of Acts you will note the moments of tension and disagreement between Jesus' followers. Yet, the early church was able to spread the gospel message by focusing on their mission as commanded by the Lord to "make disciples" looking past ethnic differences.</span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: verdana;">The Challenge</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Will the church in this century be able to recapture the unity of the early church? Are we committed to one another for the sake of Christ and the gospel? How can we expect the Lord to add to our numbers and experience growth if we can't even be on the same page? All churches whether Black or White, Asian or Latino need to consider how we can stand united lest we fall under the weight of division. John declares some powerful words in his epistle 1 John, <b>"Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him." </b>(1 John 3:15 NIV) Let us strive to follow the words of Paul in Ephesians 4:1-6, <b>As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." </b>(NIV)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Peace,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgWn8fFgqO_2rhqJX_qeKh677fKekfBfL4HcnIYVMwsvl2IjXvIvFrYVQnmJhKFI89xxAYdv-XnSkyTkIt38_yguino9wGCK5cN2fgGwG6R1kiC4mpS45876--RgtVJ0PbuKGdEPQrk76Cvnow5R91tqx676gyd_V_kynr-BDEJrMfGhKNZIG9twVgH=s960" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="960" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgWn8fFgqO_2rhqJX_qeKh677fKekfBfL4HcnIYVMwsvl2IjXvIvFrYVQnmJhKFI89xxAYdv-XnSkyTkIt38_yguino9wGCK5cN2fgGwG6R1kiC4mpS45876--RgtVJ0PbuKGdEPQrk76Cvnow5R91tqx676gyd_V_kynr-BDEJrMfGhKNZIG9twVgH=w400-h200" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-23507337810225788562021-11-12T11:10:00.003-08:002021-11-12T16:15:04.648-08:00Help My Unbelief!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> <span style="font-family: verdana;">For many people, the summer of 2021 was very challenging. We all expected the pandemic would be in the rearview mirror by now and we would again resume "normal" living. However, the pandemic appears to be lingering beyond our expectations. Covid-19 has taken up a lot of time and energy in people's lives but the challenge becomes even greater when we experience unexpected situations. This has certainly been true for me this summer. My husband was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He has since undergone surgery and the prognosis is positive. However, the week before his surgery he was diagnosed with melanoma. Needless to say, this was an unexpected, unforeseen, and unwelcome situation. These circumstances have certainly challenged my faith. The struggle has taken its toll on me spiritually, physically, and emotionally. In my work as a mental health counselor, it has been difficult to encourage others while I am operating out of a place of personal discouragement. I am thankful for the many friends and family who have been praying for us. </span><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;">An Imperfect Faith</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">During this difficult season I am drawn to the story of the father in Mark chapter 9 whose son was possessed by an impure spirit. Prior to this encounter, Jesus' closest disciples had just witnessed the transfiguration and are now rejoining the others. In Jesus absence the father of the possessed boy had asked the other disciples to heal his son but they were unsuccessful. The father, quite distraught, brings his son to Jesus for healing. However, at this point the father's faith is on shaky ground. After explaining to Jesus the history of his son's dilemma the father says to Jesus, <b>"But if You can do anything, take pity on us and help us." </b>(Mark 9:22b NIV) Jesus responds, <b>"If You can? Everything is possible for one who believes." </b>(Mark 9:23 NIV) The text goes on to tell us, <b>"Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" </b>(Mark 9:24 NIV) Jesus subsequently goes on to heal the boy. The father's statement appears to be a paradox. How can belief and unbelief exist at the same time? What the father is actually asking for is more faith or a deepening of his faith. He is acknowledging that as a human being his faith is not perfect. The father is in need of Jesus' help not only to physically heal his son but spiritually and emotionally strengthen him. I can relate to this man's struggle. As a pastor, I receive no special favor from God and I am not exempt from trials. Life is not easy and our faith is often tested when we have no control over circumstances that negatively impact us and the ones we love. However, Jesus did not walk away from this man or his son. Jesus did not tell the father that because of his spiritual struggle, his son could not be healed. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="color: #38761d;">A Perfect Lord</span></span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We need to remember that like this father our faith is not perfect but Jesus is. </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">Even the apostles in Luke 17 made a similar request like the father of this boy, </span><b style="font-family: verdana;">"The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" He (Jesus) replied, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you." </b><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Luke 17:5-6 NIV) So, I can move forward even in the uncertainty of what the future holds for us. I can rest in the assurance that Jesus will never leave or forsake me. </span><b style="font-family: verdana;">(Hebrews 13:5)</b><span style="font-family: verdana;"> He will not judge me for what I perceive as an inadequate amount of faith. One of the members in our church family stated that he recently listened online to one of his brother-in-law's sermons. The point that stood out to him is a good word for us all. His brother-in-law preached that in times of uncertainty, </span><b style="font-family: verdana;">"We don't know how but we do know Who!" </b><span style="font-family: verdana;">May the Lord bless, keep, and sustain you in whatever difficulties and challenges you are facing or will face in the days ahead.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Peace and Blessings,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LtBAI5kvDic/YY645rYBkNI/AAAAAAAAA3E/9RvHBN4cUQogdDKbgw1mkzId9mKa0PBvwCLcBGAsYHQ/s509/directory-466935__340.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="509" height="214" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LtBAI5kvDic/YY645rYBkNI/AAAAAAAAA3E/9RvHBN4cUQogdDKbgw1mkzId9mKa0PBvwCLcBGAsYHQ/w320-h214/directory-466935__340.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-85471731118189615472021-09-09T12:46:00.000-07:002021-09-09T12:46:16.534-07:00I am because HE IS!<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Have you ever been to a yard sale? I find it fascinating to see just how many items a person has collected, some of which are unusual, other items appear to be outdated.</span> <span style="font-family: verdana;">Regardless of what I think, each of those items for sale holds a particular value in the owner's eyes. Perhaps it was a gift from a dear friend. Maybe it was something passed down from a parent or grandparent. Now the items are up for sale many times for mere pennies. Why is something that once held value being sold for next to nothing? The reasons may vary. The owner may be downsizing in preparation for relocating. The person may be in need of money and the yard sale is a quick way to make a few bucks. There's a saying that goes, "one man's trash is another man's treasure." This saying has significant meaning in those rare instances where someone will purchase something at a yard sale only to later discover the item belonged to or was the creation of a famous person. As a result an item seemingly worthless becomes exceedingly valuable and sells at auction for an unbelievable price! The item derives its value from the person who created it. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: verdana;">Our Value Comes From God Our Creator</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">God has a lot to say about our infinite value and worth. In Psalm 139 we read, <b>"For <i>You</i> created my inmost being; <i>You</i> knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise <i>You</i> because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; <i>Your</i> works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from <i>You</i> when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. <i>Your</i> eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in <i>Your</i> book before one of them came to be." </b>(Psalm 139:13-16<b> NIV</b>) emphasis mine. Each and every person is uniquely created by God. His signature is imprinted all over creation. When the psalmist acknowledges that he knows full well that God's works are wonderful, it is because the psalmist has come to understand that he is one of God's wonderful works of creation. In fact Paul states in Ephesians 2:10, <b>"For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." </b>(NIV) The word <b>"handiwork"</b> is literally translated <b>"work of art."</b> Perhaps you've heard the expression, "God don't make junk!" This expression is very true for every good thing He creates is a masterpiece. In our culture and in our world, we tend to place value on an object or even a person based on appearances. Is the object new or used? Is the item cheap or expensive? Is the person young or old? The implication being if we deem something useless or worthless it no longer holds any value. If we consider a person too old or infirmed, physically or mentally challenged they are seen as no longer useful to society. Objects that are perceived as no longer holding value are often thrown into the trash or given away. Likewise, people who are seen as useless are often isolated or locked away in a facility. However, nothing that God creates can be labeled useless or without value and that includes human beings. As the psalmist declared in Psalm 139 because God created us we are fearfully and wonderfully made! The idea behind being fearfully made is not about something to be afraid of but rather conveys the idea of awe and wonder that the God of the universe could create in such indescribable and diverse ways. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: verdana;">God Delights In His Creation</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">In my counseling practice I make it a point to tell every client if they remember nothing else from the session to remember they are valuable because they exist. God does not have to create nor is He forced to create anyone or anything. He delights in creating as we read in the Bible from the book of Genesis, <b>"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." </b>(Genesis 1:1 <b>NIV</b>) Additionally, the phrase <b>"And God saw that it was good" </b>is repeated 5 times in Genesis 1 ending with <b>"God saw all that He had made, and it was <i>very</i> good." </b>(Genesis 1:31 <b>NIV</b>) when He saw the completion of His creation. God was expressing His approval, endorsement, and personal satisfaction of His work and the pinnacle of His creation was humanity. <b>(Genesis 1:26-31) </b>If this were not enough, God reinforced our value in sending His Son to die for the sins of the world and grant us eternal life.<b> (John 3:16-17) </b>I encourage you, the next time you find yourself questioning is there anything special about me? When the judgmental comments or the negative attitudes stir up a sense of worthlessness, remember this is not a yard sale or an auction where your value is determined by the highest bidder. You are fearfully and wonderfully made by a Sovereign God and there is nothing more valuable than what He has created. Therefore, you can confidently and boldly declare <b>"I am because HE IS!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Peace in Christ,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B-vM3uP7LxM/YTphb0i2m6I/AAAAAAAAA2k/8iNhrrJzXhwRGZxDc4ktSlGi3Lw0TKtqgCLcBGAsYHQ/s403/earth-2841056__340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="403" height="338" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B-vM3uP7LxM/YTphb0i2m6I/AAAAAAAAA2k/8iNhrrJzXhwRGZxDc4ktSlGi3Lw0TKtqgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h338/earth-2841056__340.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-53852946241210919222021-08-08T17:36:00.005-07:002021-08-24T12:12:00.502-07:00Another Man In The Fire<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><span>In today's world it seems like hope has become an unrealistic ideal. Nowadays when someone is questioned in the midst of a difficult situation and asked if a resolution can be found, the answer is often "I hope</span> <span>so." The response appears to lack optimism or belief that there will be an end to a particular challenge. For example, the ongoing covid pandemic has left many people physically, emotionally, and spiritually depleted and feeling like the pandemic will never end. There are many voices calling us to follow this person or that program to find the answers to our problems. Even the recent journeys into space by Jeff Besos and Richard Branson appear to suggest that space flight is "the final frontier" as the old Star Trek television series declared. The thinking is that if technology is able to get to the point of rocketing people to other planets, there is hope for the human race.</span></span></p><div><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"><b>INTO THE FLAMES</b></span></span></h3></div><div><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"><b><br /></b></span></span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">In the book of Daniel chapter 3, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were Jewish men who were set to watch over the affairs of the province of Babylon. The King at the time whose name was Nebuchadnezzar, set up an image made of gold on the plain of Dura in the province of Babylon. He then decreed that everyone should bow down and worship the image. The penalty for non-compliance was death in the form of being thrown into a blazing furnace. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego soon found themselves in a difficult situation as they refused to follow the King's decree and remain faithful to the one true God. The King summoned the three men giving them one last chance to comply. However, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood firm declaring to the King, </span><b>"King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and He will deliver us from your Majesty's hand. But even if He does not, we want you to know, your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."</b> <span style="font-weight: normal;">(Daniel 3:16-18 NIV) Notice the firmness of their response in the midst of a situation in which their backs were against the wall. There was not a sense of "I hope we get out of this dilemma" or an attempt to try and negotiate with the King. The fact of the matter was even though Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego may perish, there was only one King they served and to whom they would bow down. King Nebuchadnezzar's fury at their response was matched only by the heat of the furnace which he ordered to be heated seven times hotter than usual. The flames were so intense that the soldiers who were ordered to throw Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego into the furnace were killed by the intense heat and flames. However, to the King's amazement a fourth person whom the King described as </span><span><b>"looking like a son of the gods"</b></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> was walking around in the fire. </span><b>(v.25)<span> </span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;">Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were ordered to come out of the furnace and they exited unharmed. King Nebuchadnezzar then issued a new decree that any people or nation who spoke anything negatively against the one true God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego would be cut into pieces and their houses be turned into piles of rubble for he declared, </span><b>"no other god can save in this way."</b><span style="font-weight: normal;"> (v.29) The King then promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the province of Babylon. </span></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><b>HOPE IS ALIVE</b></span></h3></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">The challenge for us is how do we react when faced with impossible odds? When a season of life seems like it will never end, where do we turn? When we are figuratively speaking "facing the fire", where is our source of hope? There is "another man in the "fires of life." His name is Jesus. He stands with us when others are against us. He supports and upholds us when the bottom drops out from under us. And even when we are staring death in the face as did Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, there is another who walks with us through the "valley of the shadow" and delivers His followers safely to their eternal home. </span><b>"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."</b><span> (Isaiah 41:10 NIV) Rejoice! Hope is real and alive in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior for no other god can save in this way!</span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Peace and Blessings,<br /></span><i><b><span style="font-family: verdana;">Pastor Sheree</span></b></i></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><b><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></b></i></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p35f8cuEvTU/YRB3WQfr_jI/AAAAAAAAA14/PE4boEEH8E089fdrdPj9DKD_Nmgk_6H3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s736/burning-log-2088631__480.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="736" height="209" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p35f8cuEvTU/YRB3WQfr_jI/AAAAAAAAA14/PE4boEEH8E089fdrdPj9DKD_Nmgk_6H3wCLcBGAsYHQ/w320-h209/burning-log-2088631__480.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></b></i></span></div>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-12077538725796716622021-05-30T16:14:00.001-07:002021-05-30T16:15:10.980-07:00We Remember<p> <span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>"And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, </b><span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">"</span><span style="color: red; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">This is My body given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.</span><span><span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">"</span><b> In the same way, after the supper He took the cup, saying, </b><span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">"<i>This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you.</i>" </span><span>(Luke 22:19-20 NIV)</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><span>The scene is a familiar one. A family is gathered around the table sharing a meal. However, this gathering feels different. There is a sense of heaviness in the hearts of those at the table. Nonetheless, there is some discussion, a little bit of laughter, and a few tears. The family recognizes the next day their lives will change forever. They had hoped and even prayed that the circumstances could be different. However, the family has to acknowledge that someone they love has made a choice which may not be popular or ideal but necessary. This scene has been repeated over time across this nation as families released their loved ones to go and serve their country overseas. Every year we set aside the last Monday in May to give thanks and remember the sacrifice made by men and women to protect and preserve the freedoms we enjoy in this country. The shed blood of these soldiers reminds us of the high price of freedom. Sadly, those lost in conflict will never sit around that family table again. Their loved ones will have to live the rest of their lives, clinging to their shared memories. How will they carry on without that person? </span></span></span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><span style="color: red;">A New Family Gathering</span></span></span></h3><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Over two thousand years ago there was another family gathering. This meal also felt different. There was a sense of heaviness as the Leader of the family told them He was going away to die for a higher purpose. He tried to help them understand that His death would set them free in a way they could never imagine. They would experience a freedom that reached beyond their present circumstances into the realm of eternity. The family recognizes their lives were going to change forever. What would they do without Him? How would they carry on? The good news is they would be with their Leader again, not on this earth but in the new world He promised to create in which all of His family would dwell. He would rise from the dead so they would not solely be left with memories but with His Presence. Furthermore, they would be able to carry on in His absence by the power of the Holy Spirit which He would send to them.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><span style="color: red;">Eternal Victory</span></span></span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Unlike human conflicts and battles, Jesus fought a battle on another level. It was a spiritual battle for the soul of humanity. Additionally, unlike human conflicts where the battle is not always victorious, Jesus won the victory for all time and eternity! When we remember that last meal Jesus had with His disciples and His subsequent crucifixion, we recognize the high price He paid for our salvation. Each Memorial Day we remember with sadness the lives lost, but in Jesus Christ we remember with gladness the lives won by His resurrection. On Memorial Day we give thanks for the sacrifice of others and everyday we give thanks to God for freedom and eternal life in Jesus Christ!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><span>Thanks be to God!</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><span><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><span><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><span><b></b></span></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><span><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wfGJuXiOxWo/YLQV7lWaFLI/AAAAAAAAA1A/MdzZO4jEXyMtbZs5Uq-Nss6BsIDp1CXfACLcBGAsYHQ/s612/istockphoto-470519046-612x612.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="612" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wfGJuXiOxWo/YLQV7lWaFLI/AAAAAAAAA1A/MdzZO4jEXyMtbZs5Uq-Nss6BsIDp1CXfACLcBGAsYHQ/w320-h213/istockphoto-470519046-612x612.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></span></span></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><span><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span></span></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-7973678160299917592021-04-24T14:30:00.001-07:002021-04-24T14:30:22.840-07:00God So Loved The World<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">On April 20, 2021 former police officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty on all three counts against him for the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. For weeks tensions, especially within the black community, ran high as Chauvin went on trial and the subsequent guilty verdict was returned by the jury. Following Chauvin's conviction, there was a collective sigh of relief and the feeling that justice had finally been served related to the mistreatment of people of color by primarily white police officers. The reactions within the black community varied from shouts of joy and praises to God to others breaking down in tears. Many felt that true justice was a long time coming for people of color and there was some uncertainty as to whether there would actually be any type of conviction. For many there was a sense that justice has been lacking regarding any police officer ever being convicted of unnecessary brutality towards people of color. There were references to the "blue wall" wherein fellow police officers typically did not testify against their own brothers or sisters in blue. However, Derek Chauvin's case was very atypical as fellow police officers could not in good conscience condone the excessive use of force which led to George Floyd's death. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">The God Of Justice</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The Bible tells us that God is a God of justice, <b>"For the Lord is righteous, He loves justice; the upright will see His face." </b>(Psalm 11:7 NIV) <b>"For I, the Lord, love justice; I hate robbery and wrongdoing." </b>(Isaiah 61:8a NIV) Furthermore, the Bible tells us that we will experience the consequences of our choices, <b>"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life." </b>(Galatians 6:7-8 NIV) We have all seen or heard about instances where it appears a person gets away with some terrible crime or injustice and appears to escape the consequences. However, while that criminal may not experience punishment this side of heaven, nothing escapes the sight of our omniscient God. Paul states in Romans 12:19, <b>"Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay, says the Lord." </b>(NIV) </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">The God Of Love</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">On the other hand, God is also a God of mercy, grace, and love. We read in the Gospel of John the familiar words, <b>"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." </b>(John 3:16 NIV) While much of the focus has been and continues to be on George Floyd and his family, is there any thought about Derek Chauvin? One commentator on a popular daytime talk show expressed her desire to see Derek Chauvin "burn in hell." Is that God's desire? John 3:16 doesn't appear to support such a desire. I am in no way excusing what Derek Chauvin has done. Indeed his actions were cruel, malicious, heinous, and disgusting. I am not biologically related to George Floyd so I cannot begin to imagine the family's overwhelming pain and grief as well as satisfaction with Chauvin's conviction. However, Jesus tells us we are to love our enemies and <i><b>pray</b> </i>for those who persecute us. <b>(Matthew 5:43-48) </b>How many believers who are praying for the Floyd family and their healing can honestly say they are praying for Derek Chauvin? </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">The God Of Eternal Life</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Although Mr. Chauvin will serve time in prison that is not the worst of his punishment. He will one day stand before a Holy and Righteous God who will determine Chauvin's eternal fate. My prayer is that behind those prison walls, a faithful believer will share the gospel with Derek Chauvin and give him the opportunity to repent of his sin and seek the forgiveness found in Jesus. Mr. Chauvin's failure to do so will result in a consequence that is far more "deadly" than murdering another human being, and that is separation from God forever. In Matthew 10:28 Jesus tells His followers, <b>"Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell." </b>(NIV) As unpleasant and counterintuitive as it may seem, we need to pray for those towards whom we feel hate, do not like, or with whom we may disagree because Jesus died for them as well as for us. The Bible tells us no one is righteous <b>(Romans 3:9-20) "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." </b>(Romans 3:23 NIV) However, there is hope, <b>"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." </b>(Romans 6:23 NIV) Yes, God so loved even Derek Chauvin that He gave up His only Son. We as Christ's followers are not called to excuse, forget, or feel warm fuzzies towards Mr. Chauvin or his behavior but we are called to pray for his salvation and proclaim the gospel to all people so that they may recognize and experience how much God so loved the world.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">To God be the glory!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKIE3jJrGG8/YISLU-kt4HI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/ZdkfPib7ergI9PfCnYkQbOSXEWVz4uvkQCLcBGAsYHQ/s720/cross-4433376__480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKIE3jJrGG8/YISLU-kt4HI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/ZdkfPib7ergI9PfCnYkQbOSXEWVz4uvkQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h266/cross-4433376__480.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-2607475760602929792021-03-29T12:43:00.001-07:002021-03-29T12:43:11.303-07:00Victory!<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">When we hear the word "victory" what thoughts come to mind? We may think about a military conflict where the goal is to totally defeat the identified "enemy." We may think of a sporting event, for example the Boston Marathon or some team competition wherein those participating seek to cross the finish line or win the coveted trophy/award. Victory may also be demonstrated in battling back from a devastating disease or disability and going on to pursue life's goals.</span> <span style="font-family: verdana;">A victory in mental health can be experienced in overcoming a fear that has kept a person from feeling emotionally healthy. There are many ways to define a victory and each definition is unique to the individual in their particular situation or circumstance. However, what does true victory look like from a spiritual perspective?</span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red; font-family: verdana;">Spiritual Victory</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"> The people of Israel celebrated a spiritual victory in <b>Exodus chapter 12</b> where they were delivered from the bondage of slavery to Egypt after the last plague. Thus was established the recognition and remembrance of the Passover seder which the Jewish people celebrate every year. Joshua and the Israelites saw the walls of Jericho collapse in the book of <b>Joshua chapter 6</b> as he encouraged the people to complete the work that Moses had begun in leading them to the Promised Land. As of this writing, we are entering Holy Week. It is the time when Christians celebrate the most foundational spiritual victory of their faith--the resurrection of Jesus. The gospels (<b>Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) </b>present the events that led up to the crucifixion of Jesus and His subsequent resurrection. The victory of Jesus is monumental in conquering sin and death so that our relationship with God could be restored and His followers could receive eternal life. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red; font-family: verdana;">Resurrection Hope</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We will experience many victories in our lifetime and yes, even some defeats but the resurrection of Jesus will never be undone by anyone or anything. <i style="font-weight: bold;">"The death He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life He lives, He lives to God." </i>(Romans 6:10 NIV) <i style="font-weight: bold;">"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. </i>(1 Peter 1:3-4a NIV) Christian artists Elevation Worship have a popular song entitled <b>"See a Victory."</b> The refrain goes, <b><i>"I'm gonna see a victory, I'm gonna see a victory, For the battle belongs to You, Lord."</i></b> The Israelites were released from the bondage of slavery, the walls of Jericho fell, and Jesus Christ lives! When God is involved, the victory is assured. May you experience afresh this Easter the hope believers have in the greatest victory ever!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Have a blessed Resurrection Day! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: verdana; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Easter, Resurrection, Empty, Tomb, Christian, Faith" height="225" src="https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2020/04/09/01/07/easter-5019243_960_720.png" srcset="https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2020/04/09/01/07/easter-5019243_960_720.png 1x, https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2020/04/09/01/07/easter-5019243_1280.png 1.333x" style="background-color: white; background-image: linear-gradient(45deg, rgb(239, 239, 239) 25%, transparent 0px, transparent 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239) 0px, rgb(239, 239, 239)), linear-gradient(45deg, rgb(239, 239, 239) 25%, transparent 0px, transparent 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239) 0px, rgb(239, 239, 239)); background-position: 0px 0px, 10px 10px; background-size: 21px 21px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 30, 0.3) 0px 1px 3px; caret-color: rgb(25, 27, 38); color: #191b26; display: block; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; height: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; position: relative; text-align: center;" width="400" /></span></p><h1 style="background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5) 0px, transparent); caret-color: rgb(25, 27, 38); color: #191b26; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; height: 46px; left: 0px; line-height: 46px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; opacity: 0; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px 10px; position: absolute; right: 0px; text-transform: capitalize; top: 0px; transition: 0.3s; z-index: 100;"><span class="modal" data-href="/service/report/photo/5019243/" data-w="550" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5); border-bottom-left-radius: 30px; border-bottom-right-radius: 30px; border-top-left-radius: 30px; border-top-right-radius: 30px; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; float: right; line-height: 1; margin: 7px 0px 0px 15px; opacity: 0.8; padding: 9px 8px 5px 10px;" title="Report"><i class="icon icon_flag" style="background-image: url("https://pixabay.com/static/img/sprites.svg"), none; background-position: -100px -200px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; height: 14px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; width: 13px;"></i></span><a href="https://pixabay.com/vectors/search/easter/" style="border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; color: white; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 4px; text-decoration: none; transition: 0.3s;">Easter</a> <a href="https://pixabay.com/vectors/search/resurrection/" style="border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; color: white; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 4px; text-decoration: none; transition: 0.3s;">Resurrection</a> <a href="https://pixabay.com/vectors/search/empty/" style="border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; color: white; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 4px; text-decoration: none; transition: 0.3s;">Empty</a> <a href="https://pixabay.com/vectors/search/tomb/" style="border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; color: white; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 4px; text-decoration: none; transition: 0.3s;">Tomb</a> <a href="https://pixabay.com/vectors/search/christian/" style="border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; color: white; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 4px; text-decoration: none; transition: 0.3s;">Christian</a> <a href="https://pixabay.com/vectors/search/faith/" style="border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; color: white; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 4px; text-decoration: none; transition: 0.3s;">Faith</a></h1>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-74493788757833919872021-02-28T14:41:00.001-08:002021-02-28T14:42:28.445-08:00What's Your Dream?<p> <span style="font-family: verdana;">What do you think of when you hear the word "dream?" For some, the image of sleep may come to mind. Sleep experts say that everyone dreams but we don't necessarily remember them. For others, to dream is to consider what the future may hold. We all have some desire to see the fulfillment of our dreams, for example owning our own home, or getting married, or owning a certain type of car. In the Bible, dreams are a part of the biblical narrative. Joseph dreams that he will one day have authority over his parents and brothers. <b>(Genesis 37)</b> He is also able to interpret the dreams of Pharaoh and Pharaoh's baker and cupbearer. <b>(Genesis 40-41) </b>Moreover, not only did Daniel dream but he was also able to interpret the dreams of King Nebuchadnezzar. <b>(Daniel 2-9)</b> In the New Testament, the Lord spoke to Joseph twice in a dream, once telling him to take Mary as his wife because she was carrying the Savior of the world.<b> (Matthew 1:20-21) </b>The second time Joseph was warned by an angel to flee to Egypt after King Herod threatened to kill Jesus as a child. <b>(Matthew 2:13-15)</b> </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">Eternal Dreams</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The month of February has been declared Black History Month. Perhaps more than any other year, Black History Month has been more highlighted following the deaths of George Floyd and other Black Americans who needlessly lost their lives. Out of these tragedies the "Black Lives Matter" movement gained new energy in an attempt to end racism and violence against Black Americans. Prior to the "Black Lives Matter" movement, there was another man who had a dream. His name was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In many ways, Dr. King's dream for equality was the first "Black Lives Matter" movement and his non-violent methodology brought about the Civil Rights Movement, and the eventual signing of the Civil Rights Act in 1964. Over 2,000 years ago another man had a dream. He was the God-man, Jesus Christ. However, unlike the dreams of humanity which can be at times fleeting, Jesus' dream became an eternal reality. His "dream" was to redeem us from our sins and reconcile us back to God through His death and resurrection. Prior to His death, Jesus prayed that His followers would be one as He and the Father are one. <b>(John 17:22-23) </b>Jesus desired complete unity among His people so the world would know Him by our love for each other. <b>(John 13:35) </b></span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">Desiring God's Dream</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">There is nothing wrong with dreaming about what our hearts may desire, however what is the reality that most of our dreams will be fulfilled? In a world that is fallen, broken, and tainted by sin, the attempts to achieve racial harmony between blacks and whites could be considered an unachievable dream. However, if the church truly takes to heart Jesus' eternal vision we can move closer to the "oneness" that truly reflects the heart of God. So, what is your dream? The temporary satisfaction of our individual desires or the eternal vision of loving God with our entire being and loving our neighbor as ourselves? <b>"We love because He first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother or sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And He has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister." </b>(1 John 4:19-21)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Peace,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AWo_8ecgTC4/YDwYGB6mvpI/AAAAAAAAAzw/yDjL13Bp6Wc_908b0XoFtx_Her5nUA37QCLcBGAsYHQ/s760/children-2857263__480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="760" height="253" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AWo_8ecgTC4/YDwYGB6mvpI/AAAAAAAAAzw/yDjL13Bp6Wc_908b0XoFtx_Her5nUA37QCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h253/children-2857263__480.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-64191445605564955692021-01-10T14:10:00.002-08:002021-01-10T14:10:36.375-08:00"Comfort"<p> <span style="font-family: verdana;">Every year I think about and pray for a word to focus on during the upcoming year. Last year's word was "<b>rest</b>" but I have to admit that last year was definitely not restful. However, the concept of rest can also focus on resting in the Lord in the midst of all the chaos and confusion that played out in our world last year. This concept of resting in the Lord was definitely needed in 2020. Many have verbalized a need for "<b>hope</b>" in 2021. The word I was given for the year is "<b>comfort.</b>" I believe "<b>comfort</b>" is an appropriate word in the year ahead. In times of trouble and distress we all seek some sort of comfort. When we are sick and struggling to function we need the comfort of other's care or the relief we can experience from medication. When we have lost a loved one to death, comfort from the support of others can help us through our grief. "<b>Comfort</b>" is a very significant concept in God's word. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: verdana;">God's Word Is A Source Of Comfort</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The Old and New Testaments have many examples of the importance of comfort. In the midst of their struggles, Isaiah prophesied in chapter 40, <b><i>comfort</i></b> and deliverance for the Israelites through a soon to come Messiah. Many during this pandemic have experienced suffering and have sought relief. The psalmist provides encouragement during hard times and declares, <b>"My <i>comfort </i>in my suffering is this; Your promise preserves my life." </b>(Psalm 119:50 NIV)<b> </b>Moreover, one of the most familiar psalms speaks of God's comfort through one of the most fearful times in our lives--death, <b>"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff they <i>comfort </i>me." </b>(Psalm 23:4 NIV) Some versions of the Bible translate "darkest valley" as the "valley of the shadow of death." Both the rod and staff of the shepherd were used to bring comfort to the sheep through protecting them against predators and gently guiding and keeping the sheep close to the shepherd. Fast forward to the New Testament and Jesus in His person represented God's comfort to those who were in bondage to sin. In Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, <b><i>comfort</i></b> is a part of the Beatitudes, <b>"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be <i>comforted</i>." </b>(Matthew 5:4 NIV) Comfort is not solely something we receive, but also something we give to others. God calls us to follow His example and be comforters as Paul states in 2 Corinthians, <b>"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all <i>comfort</i>, who <i>comforts </i>us in all our troubles, so that <u>we</u> can <i>comfort </i>those in any trouble with the <i>comfort </i>we ourselves receive from God." </b>(2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV) </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: verdana;">An Ultimate Comfort Will Come</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Our ultimate comfort will be realized with the creation of a new heaven and earth when we will no longer need <b><i>comfort</i></b> but we will be <i><b>comfortable</b></i> in the presence of our Lord forever as we read in Revelation, <b>"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." </b>(Revelation 21:4 NIV) Its a New Year and as in previous years, there will be triumphs as well as tragedies, pleasure as well as pain, celebration as well as suffering. We will all need comfort at some point during the year but there will be times as well when we will be comforters to others. I will wait with expectation upon the Lord to see how the word <i style="font-weight: bold;">"comfort" </i>unfolds in my life this year.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The comfort of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you in the year ahead!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x8epy6bOUfw/X_t5AzrzO6I/AAAAAAAAAzM/gV1sN_2j2xoyPBNtKNpb0h4SiNo3FgAswCLcBGAsYHQ/s720/morning-2264051__480.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x8epy6bOUfw/X_t5AzrzO6I/AAAAAAAAAzM/gV1sN_2j2xoyPBNtKNpb0h4SiNo3FgAswCLcBGAsYHQ/w320-h213/morning-2264051__480.webp" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-12197338022490697752020-12-20T12:06:00.003-08:002020-12-20T12:06:45.414-08:00A "Captive" Audience<p> <span style="font-family: verdana;">The corona virus pandemic has certainly held the world hostage in 2020. Some may even say the virus has held us captive for a year. The after effects of being held in captivity can be devastating. The emotional and psychological damage can leave some people struggling to put their lives back together. Those who are resilient can move on with their lives while sadly others can feel there's no longer any reason to live and choose to end their lives. The Israelites knew what it felt like to live in captivity. For over 400 years, they were enslaved by the Egyptians until God sent them a deliverer in Moses. <b>(Exodus 3)</b> However, throughout the Old Testament, the Israelite people continued to experience various seasons of captivity related to their ongoing disobedience to God. At one point in time they were sent into exile under the Babylonians as a result of their failure to follow and worship the one true God.<b>(Jeremiah 52)</b> In Jesus day, the Israelites once again found themselves under oppression and captivity, this time from the Roman government. However, they had received deliverance by the hand of God many times in the past from their oppressors. Moreover, the Israelites had also been promised that one greater than Moses would one day overthrow their enemies once and for all. <b>"Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your King comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey." </b>(Zechariah 9:9 NIV)</span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red; font-family: verdana;">"Holy Captivity"</span></h3><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"> Ironically, the Christmas story is a story of captivity. The Son of God left eternity and became captive in time. He gave up the glories of heaven and became captive in a human body. He lived among His people and became captive to their suffering. He was nailed to a cross and became a captive of the sins of the world to save us. The world today remains captive to sin and its negative influence on our lives. However, the Christmas story continues to remind us that we don't have to remain prisoners to sin. <b>"But when the set time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship...So you are no longer a slave, but God's child; and since you are His child, God has made you also an heir." </b>(Galatians 4:4,7 NIV) So in essence we have become a "captive" audience. However, our captivity is not that which restricts us and holds us hostage but rather we have become captive to the awe and wonder of the greatest gift we could receive, a baby born into our world to save us from our sins. I encourage you this Christmas not to be a hopeless prisoner to a pandemic but a captive to hope. For hope has a name--Jesus.</span></div><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Merry Christmas!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree </i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZR_kyh4xlU8/X9-pOIPgzPI/AAAAAAAAAy0/Bvy-dSrZnJ4IrSCvKs-ZyXfM2FG9JzL1wCLcBGAsYHQ/s534/nativity-3824878__480.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="534" height="288" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZR_kyh4xlU8/X9-pOIPgzPI/AAAAAAAAAy0/Bvy-dSrZnJ4IrSCvKs-ZyXfM2FG9JzL1wCLcBGAsYHQ/w320-h288/nativity-3824878__480.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-56784561639679845242020-11-22T11:50:00.000-08:002020-11-22T11:50:44.608-08:00"We Will Give Thanks!"<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Thanksgiving is a few days away and this year presents many challenges. In past years, there was no need to think about how we were going to celebrate the day. For those fortunate enough to be able to have their need for food, clothing, and shelter met, the typical scenario includes gathering together in groups of various sizes around a table overflowing with delicious delicacies. Thanksgiving was seen as one of the times during the year when we gave ourselves permission to overindulge. It is also a time of reflection where for some families the tradition is going around the table sharing reasons to be thankful. This year we can still overindulge except we have to make a conscious decision about with whom we will eat and how many people will be a part of the celebration. State governors and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) are strongly recommending celebrations be numerically toned down in order to curtail the ongoing spread of the corona virus.</span> <span style="font-family: verdana;">The unwelcome interruption in our typical Thanksgiving traditions have prompted some people to question for what reason are we to be thankful? </span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: verdana;">The "Great Hallel"</span></h3><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">In Psalm 136, we find what is called a litany of thanksgiving. Psalm 136 is known as the "Great Hallel." The word "hallel" is from the Hebrew meaning "to praise." The structure of Psalm 136 is what's called an antiphon which is a chant set to music, typically recited by two groups. The Psalm recalls the beloved history and culture of the Israelites and God's faithfulness to His people. The repetition of the response <b>"His love endures forever" </b>is a call to the audience to join and affirm what the Psalmist has composed. The call and response was most likely used as part of a worship service. Despite the current situation we are living through, there's always a reason to give thanks, especially to the Creator of heaven and earth. Therefore, I recommend consideration of starting a new tradition this year. No matter how many people are present at the table, we can focus on engaging in our own "Great Hallel" wherein one person serves as the "worship leader" and those gathered respond with affirmation. The following is an example:</span></div><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Praise the Lord, Creator of heaven and earth.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>We will give thanks!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">From the rising of the sun until its going down.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>We will give thanks!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For every breath and every heart beat.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>We will give thanks!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For our frontline workers who are sacrificing every day.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>We will give thanks!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For our government officials who are making the hard choices for our well-being.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>We will give thanks!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For the gift of relationship.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>We will give thanks!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For God so loving the world that He sent His only Son to save us.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>We will give thanks!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For Jesus' resurrection which has conquered sin and death.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>We will give thanks!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For God's promise that He will never leave or forsake us even in the darkest times.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>We will give thanks!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For anticipation of the day of Jesus' return.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>We will give thanks!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Praise the Lord, whose love endures forever.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>We will give thanks!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">No matter how long or short your personal "Great Hallel" may be, there's many things for which to be thankful. May God bless and keep you and your loved ones this Thanksgiving Day and bring comfort to those who are suffering and have experienced loss this year.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WQwh7NdA-CA/X7q_gc-yz2I/AAAAAAAAAyc/mP4-sjgwfksXI88CNlob-JhCMY1pYWDygCLcBGAsYHQ/s480/thanksgiving-1000316__480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WQwh7NdA-CA/X7q_gc-yz2I/AAAAAAAAAyc/mP4-sjgwfksXI88CNlob-JhCMY1pYWDygCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/thanksgiving-1000316__480.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-31346620577277699992020-10-26T17:45:00.002-07:002020-10-27T15:46:26.408-07:00Who Is Your King?<p><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br />There is less than a week left before the election of a new President. The political climate has been extremely tense with frustration and anger amongst people, escalating at times into violence. Voters have expressed concern about the voting process related to possible suppression of votes among certain minority populations as well as perceptions of intimidation tactics. Both Democratic and Republican</span> <span style="font-family: verdana;">constituents believe that their nominee will be the one to make everything better. The thinking is and has been regardless of who is running for office in any given year, if we just elect the "right" person with the "right" policies the country's challenges will be resolved and everything will run smoothly. Sometimes the expectations people have and the pressure placed on a presidential candidate almost feels like electing a king to take full control of the country. The idea that any human being is able to fulfill all our needs and expectations is unrealistic. The only One capable of fulfilling our deepest need, which is spiritual, is God. However, today there appears to be little interest or belief in God or what He has done for us in Jesus Christ. </span><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: verdana;">History Repeats Itself</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We read about a similar situation in 1 Samuel 8:1-22. The Israelites had been experiencing fear from the threats of the Philistines. Additionally, the Philistines had captured the Ark of God. Moreover, the Israelites had demonstrated unfaithfulness to the Lord and pursued foreign gods. In response, God called and raised up the prophet Samuel to lead the people. Samuel challenged the people to return to the Lord and stop their idolatry if they expected to be delivered from the Philistines. The Israelites repented and returned to the Lord with their whole hearts and became obedient to His will. As a result, Samuel led the people resulting in a victory over the Philistines. However, years later after Samuel was well advanced in age, his son's were appointed as leaders over Israel. Unfortunately, Samuel's sons did not follow in their father's footsteps and engaged in behaviors that were contrary to the laws handed down to the people through Moses. In their anger the people rose up and demanded new leadership. We read in 1 Samuel 8:4-5, <b>"So all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah. They said to him, "You are old, and your sons do not follow your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have." (NIV) </b>The text indicates that Samuel was displeased with their request. He may have wondered how the people could dare to make such a demand after all that God had done for them through delivering them from their enemies. Samuel's response was to go before the Lord in prayer. <b>"And the Lord told him: "Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected <i>Me </i>as their king." </b>(1 Samuel 8:7 NIV italics mine) God went on to tell Samuel to share with the people all the negative consequences that would result if their request was granted.<b>(vv.10-18)</b> Unfortunately the people did not take seriously what Samuel shared and insisted they have a king so they could be like the other nations who had kings that led their people, went before them, and fought their battles. <b>(vv.19-20) </b>The Lord in His grace told Samuel to grant the people's request perhaps to Samuel's surprise. <b>(v.22) </b></span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: verdana;">We Need A True King</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The rest of the book of 1 Samuel plays out the result of God's warning to the people. When the true King is removed from the picture, the outcome is disastrous.The political unrest in our nation coupled with ongoing violence and underlying racism is the result of hearts that are hardened towards God. He has provided us a King called Jesus who was willing to leave behind the glories of heaven, live among us, and die for us. Moreover, this King rose again from the grave to give all who commit to following Him eternal life and residence in an everlasting kingdom. Yet, like the Israelites, people choose to reject Him and seek to be like all the other nations who have placed their hope and trust in a leader who is just as fallible as the people they are leading. Some world leaders are ruthless and although elected by the people, they operate like a king using their power to oppress and suppress any attempts to overthrow the government. We can be thankful that our system of government has checks and balances towards avoiding dictatorship. However, as long as there is an insistence that we don't need the King of kings and Lord of lords, hearts will not change and circumstances will remain chaotic for years to come. So, who is your king? The choice we make has eternal consequences. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Soli Deo Gloria,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7nZXmE93lo/X5driJehBYI/AAAAAAAAAyA/9PL8eKn1hLoa4AwQi9VgeGdEY-CJYbv6ACLcBGAsYHQ/s869/crown-312734__480.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="869" height="177" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7nZXmE93lo/X5driJehBYI/AAAAAAAAAyA/9PL8eKn1hLoa4AwQi9VgeGdEY-CJYbv6ACLcBGAsYHQ/w320-h177/crown-312734__480.png" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /><i><br /></i></b></span><p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-91406839493600041402020-09-26T13:22:00.000-07:002020-09-26T13:23:43.307-07:00A Tale of Two Ruths<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">This past week, our country bid farewell to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Justice Ginsberg was a "pioneer" in the true sense of the word. Against all odds she attended the prestigious Harvard Law School where she was one of only 9 women out of a class of 500 prompting the dean of Harvard to ask her why she was taking up a place that "should go to a man." However, Justice Ginsburg was undaunted by such comments and became the catalyst for advocacy of women's rights. Some would say Ruth Bader Ginsberg was the "architect" of the legal fight for women's rights in the 1970's. She changed the way the country treated American women. For more than a decade until her first judicial appointment in 1980, Justice Ginsburg led the fight for gender equality. When she began her legal crusade, women were treated, by law, differently from men. Hundreds of state and federal laws restricted what women could do, barring then from jobs, rights, and even jury service. By the time she was elected to the Supreme Court, however, Ruth Bader Ginsburg had worked a revolution. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">A Revolutionary "Rock Star"</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For over 27 years of serving on the Supreme Court Ruth Bader Ginsburg's decisions forever changed life for American women. By the time she was in her 80's, Justice Ginsburg had become something of a "rock star" to women of all ages and was dubbed the "Notorious RBG." She was so well respected on the Supreme Court that Justice Ginsburg and her conservative colleague Justice Antonin Scalia developed a close personal friendship. Despite their political differences, Justice Scalia once gave Justice Ginsberg two dozen roses on her birthday after she had denied him a vote that he needed for a particular case. When asked why he gave her the roses, Justice Scalia replied, "Some things are more important than votes." Indeed it can be said that Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a trailblazer. Even in death she was still breaking down barriers not only as the first Supreme Court Justice to have two days of viewing at the Supreme Court but also becoming the first woman in U.S. history to lie in state at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Additionally, she was the first Jewish American to ever lie in state at the U.S. Congress. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">The "Other" Ruth</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The Bible tells us about another woman named Ruth who changed history forever. Her beginnings were more humble. In fact she was a foreigner, a Moabite, who left behind all she was familiar with, including her family, to stay by her mother-in-law's side after she and her mother-in-law were both widowed. We read in the book of Ruth after Naomi urges her daughters-in-law to return to their own people and their gods, Ruth declares, <b>"Don't urge me to leave you or turn back from you. Where you go, I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me." </b>(Ruth 1:16-17 NIV) Ruth's commitment to Naomi was significant. One could say it was life changing. We're told when the two women returned to Bethlehem, <b>"the whole town was stirred because of them, and the women exclaimed, "Can this be Naomi?" </b>(Ruth 1:19b NIV) Can you imagine what it was like for Ruth to become the center of attention? A Moabite among a people that were ethnically and culturally different. However, this did not hinder Ruth's determination to do whatever it took to help her mother-in-law. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">A Sacrificial Love</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Ruth loved her mother-in-law so much that she was willing to go into the barley fields to pick up leftover grain to help support them. In Biblical times, women were considered property and were dependent on men to support them. If a woman was widowed, she lost that source of support, especially if she had no children, specifically sons. Naomi was equally dedicated to Ruth as she suggested Ruth go down to the threshing floor of a close relative named Boaz. Boaz subsequently falls in love with Ruth and is able to secure the rights to Naomi's deceased husband's property from a guardian-redeemer who had first rights to the property. However, that person also had to marry Ruth in order to maintain the name of the dead man with his property. When the guardian-redeemer refused to marry Ruth for fear of endangering his own estate, he willingly turned the property over to Boaz. <b>(Ruth 4:1-8)</b> Ruth and Boaz married and brought forth a son. Ruth 4:17b states, <b>"And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David. </b>(NIV) The Davidic line ultimately brought forth the Messiah, Jesus. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">A Lasting Legacy</span></h3><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Women helping women. Two Ruths, both women the unlikely beneficiaries of lasting legacies. One Ruth, whose legacy made a difference here on earth, the other Ruth whose legacy has eternal value. </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">Through one woman came freedom for women from oppression in the here and now. Through the other woman came freedom from sin forever for all humanity through the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">Both women willing to stand against culture and convention out of love for others. Praise God for the sacrifice of these women to accomplish God's sovereign plan. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Thanks be to God!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OXqrYe40zMs/X2-hLyH0KLI/AAAAAAAAAxU/wtfaYg4UvekTTT1w0epR8k0VJyVtIizQACLcBGAsYHQ/s720/god-1772560__480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OXqrYe40zMs/X2-hLyH0KLI/AAAAAAAAAxU/wtfaYg4UvekTTT1w0epR8k0VJyVtIizQACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/god-1772560__480.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6zILbJBTius/X2-hPatWJ9I/AAAAAAAAAxY/0FT2qsM9c5QkV9DAiObS2FXOHPmyNopGwCLcBGAsYHQ/s720/statue-of-liberty-1210001__480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6zILbJBTius/X2-hPatWJ9I/AAAAAAAAAxY/0FT2qsM9c5QkV9DAiObS2FXOHPmyNopGwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/statue-of-liberty-1210001__480.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-73292356564650182422020-08-02T12:44:00.005-07:002020-08-02T12:44:27.813-07:00"Good Trouble"<font face="verdana">The passing of Congressman John R. Lewis brought a pivotal point in history to a close. John Lewis was one of the significant figures in the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for racial equality. The funeral service which took place on July 30, 2020 was a mixture of politics and praise for the many accomplishments of the congressman and the lives that he touched during his 80 years on earth. There are very few public figures that are eulogized by three living former United States presidents, however John Lewis earned that respect for his selfless contributions to better the lives of not only black Americans but all Americans. Despite the political references, the consistent thread that ran through the many testimonies from friends, family, and notable public figures was John Lewis' sacrificial spirit. The congressman poured himself into so many people and causes that some considered him a modern day saint. In fact one of the people who shared at his service stated, <b>"John Lewis was truly human and divine." </b>Some believers may be disturbed at such a statement as we acknowledge that there is only one who was truly human and truly divine--Jesus. However, I believe the intention of this person was not in any way to deify John Lewis but demonstrate how he reflected the character of Christ. </font><div><font face="verdana"><br /></font><h3 style="text-align: left;"><font color="#ff0000" face="verdana">"TROUBLEMAKER"</font></h3><div><font face="verdana">One of Congressman Lewis' favorite sayings was lets get into"good trouble." This saying was meant to challenge people to fight for what was right and just even if it costs us everything. Isn't that so like Jesus? Jesus like John Lewis was constantly in "good trouble" during His brief time on earth. He stood in opposition to the religious leaders and their failure to recognize Him as the Messiah. Jesus' claims often drew such anger from the teachers of the law that they wanted to kill Him. <b>(Luke 14:14-28; John 8:58) </b>Jesus was ultimately crucified not because of any thing that He had done wrong but because He spoke God's truth and came to deliver humanity from sin through His death and resurrection. John Lewis almost lost his life after marching across the Edmund Pettus bridge in Alabama to protest racial inequality and secure voting rights for black Americans. The marchers were met with police hostility and Lewis ended up in the hospital after a blow to his head from a police officer's baton. Lewis was not doing anything illegal, immoral, or even violent as he peacefully lead the march alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the other protesters. He spoke the truth about the evils of segregation and sought to bring about change as the book of Micah declares, <b>"He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." </b>(Micah 6:8 NIV) </font></div><div><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><font color="#ff0000" face="verdana">A REFLECTION OF GOD's HEART</font></h3><div><font face="verdana">John Lewis knew that before God, all human beings are created equal regardless of race or gender. John Lewis knew that in heaven there is no segregation as the book of Revelation states, <b>"After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from <i>every nation, tribe, people, and language,</i> standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice: "Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb." </b>(Revelation 7:9-10 NIV) The challenge of the church today is to have a desire to get into "good trouble" for the sake of the gospel. The early church knew and demonstrated their willingness to sacrifice all for Christ, even if it meant losing their lives. Are believers today willing to follow in Jesus' footsteps like John Lewis? The times we live in may be different but the call upon the life of God's people has not changed, to love God with our entire being, to love our neighbor as ourselves, and preach the gospel. <b>(Matthew 22:37-40; Matthew 28:18-20; 2 Timothy 4:1-5) </b>John Lewis loved God and his neighbor so much that he was willing to sacrifice His life. Let's follow his example as he followed Jesus and get into "good trouble" for the sake of Christ and the gospel.</font><div><font face="verdana">To God Be The Glory!</font></div><div><font face="verdana"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></font></div></div></div><div><font face="verdana"><b><i><br /></i></b></font></div><div><font face="verdana"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GtzwbLu4xIs/XycWQte2PZI/AAAAAAAAAwo/IBHGzdeeUaQIPMp9QKCULDMXTi-FnFrSgCLcBGAsYHQ/s720/board-1815982__480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GtzwbLu4xIs/XycWQte2PZI/AAAAAAAAAwo/IBHGzdeeUaQIPMp9QKCULDMXTi-FnFrSgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h267/board-1815982__480.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><i><br /></i></b></font></div>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-23577584331726134332020-07-26T11:34:00.001-07:002020-07-26T11:34:57.017-07:00Holy Applause!<font face="verdana">Many of you are aware that the baseball season has begun. Teams will be vying for a spot in the World's Series in this somewhat modified and shortened season. Additionally basketball players are gearing up in "the bubble" down at Disney in Florida to commence their season. Some teams including our own Boston Celtics have already begun engaging in scrimmage games with other teams. The Boston Bruins hockey team is about to begin their season in Canada. Finally, the NFL has submitted their plans to protect players and their families during the corona virus pandemic. The Patriots are scheduled to start their training camp on time. One thing that all of these sports teams share in common is they will be playing without fans in the stadiums. The corona virus has hindered the ability of people to actively support their teams in person. The various leagues have tried to enhance the experience for the players through piped in crowd noise as well as cardboard cut outs in the stands. The option has even been offered to fans to take a picture and purchase a cardboard cut out which can be placed in the seat of a particular stadium. We as human beings thrive on the support and accolades of others. Players on the various sports teams will be quick to acknowledge that a crowd of fans shouting and clapping energizes them to perform at the highest level. What happens when there is no longer any crowd noise? The game can still be played but there is a sense of loss and diminished level of energy.</font><div><font face="verdana"> </font><h3 style="text-align: left;"><font color="#ff00fe" face="verdana"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 254);">FOREVER FANS</span></font></h3><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Followers of Christ are forever receiving encouragement as they walk through the challenges of this life. No matter what may take place, there is a "heavenly crowd of fans" cheering us on. We read in the book of Hebrews </span><b style="font-family: verdana;">"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such <i>a great cloud of witnesses, </i>let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." </b><span style="font-family: verdana;">(Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV)</span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span><span style="color: #ff00fe; font-family: verdana;">ETERNAL VICTORY</span></b></h3><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Team players have their eyes fixed on accomplishing the ultimate goal of being crowned "the best" in their sport. After the victory of winning the ultimate prize, players will often comment that they won the trophy for their fans with whom they share the prize. A celebratory parade in a major city often follows with ongoing cheers and applause. The lack of an active fan base in the stands and the cancellation of victory parades may diminish the joy in celebrating the win. However, when our eyes are fixed on Jesus and the ultimate prize of sharing eternity with Him, it encourages us to keep persevering in this life. Our "fan base" are all the saints that have gone before us. Friends, family, and other brothers and sisters who have finished the race are now participating in the never ending celebration of glory to God for what Jesus has done through His sacrifice on the cross. So I encourage you as the writer of Hebrews states, not <b>"to grow weary or lose heart"</b> when life challenges us and others oppose us for our faithfulness to the Lord. We have an ongoing "holy applause" that resonates in heaven which will never be silenced by anyone or anything!</span></p><div><div><font face="verdana">Thanks be to God!</font></div><div><font face="verdana"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></font></div></div></div><div><font face="verdana"><b><i><br /></i></b></font></div><div><font face="verdana"><b><i><br /></i></b></font></div><div><font face="verdana"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X0qub2WOhDY/Xx3KA3j9IvI/AAAAAAAAAwU/P8MzAtKQ884-KhIf6TBvvqLqooDTLMB1ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1597/pogen-4846362__480.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="1597" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X0qub2WOhDY/Xx3KA3j9IvI/AAAAAAAAAwU/P8MzAtKQ884-KhIf6TBvvqLqooDTLMB1ACLcBGAsYHQ/w500-h150/pogen-4846362__480.png" width="500" /></a></div><i><br /></i></b></font></div>RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-68110637862303299332020-06-02T15:37:00.000-07:002020-06-02T15:37:17.646-07:00"Do And Teach"<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I enjoy reading the devotional booklet, "Our Daily Bread" published by RBC Ministries located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The most recent post was a timely message in light of the violence in our country resulting from the murder of George Floyd. The devotional focused on the story of a young man named Patrick, who was wounded yet managed to survive the Colombine High School massacre in Colorado. The story emphasized how Patrick harbored feelings of bitterness following the shootings and wondered why he had survived. During his recovery, God showed Patrick that the key to forgiveness is to stop focusing on what others have done <i><b>to</b> </i>us and to focus on what Jesus has done <i><b>for</b> </i>us. Twenty years after the tragedy, Patrick came to the conclusion that maybe God had spared him and chosen him to forgive. Perhaps, God was calling Patrick to a ministry of forgiveness and reconciliation, the very thing that Jesus demonstrated to us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> After reading this devotional I was drawn to John chapter 13. This is the story of Jesus' last time of intimacy with His disciples prior to His crucifixion. Jesus, in a total act of humility washes His disciples feet, including the feet of the one who was to betray Him. John tells us, <b>"When He had finished washing their feet, He put on His clothes and returned to His place. "Do you understand what I have <i>done </i>for you?" He asked them. "You call Me 'Teacher and Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you should also wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should <i>do</i> as I have <i>done </i>for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you <i>do</i> them." </b>(John 13:12-17 NIV) Notice how Jesus emphasis in the text is on <b><i>"doing"</i></b> and this is the heart of the story. Luke reinforces this principle in the book of Acts, <b>"In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to <i>do and teach</i> until the day He was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles He had chosen." </b>(Acts 1:1-2 NIV)</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">WE ARE CALLED TO ACTION</span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> We in the church tend to focus on teaching and then telling people what to do. However, many times we fail to follow through with what we have learned. We can acknowledge what a great sermon we heard but then return to our homes and continue on with our lives. When we actively <i><b>do </b></i>something first, it opens the door for people to catch a glimpse of Jesus. Many of us will never endure the horrible tragedy of Colombine or have our lives needlessly cut short by someone's knee on our throat cutting off our air supply while we beg for mercy. However, all of us will experience at some point being wronged by another person. A spouse commits adultery, a child rebels, an employer is abusive. What action can we take to move on? Perhaps, we need to look at the example of our Savior. In the face of betrayal, Jesus chose to <b><i>do</i></b> something, He washed His disciple's feet. He didn't merely lecture His disciples, He showed them what to <b><i>do</i></b>. In the face of rejection, abandonment, torture, and crucifixion, Jesus chose to <i style="font-weight: bold;">do</i> something, He went to the cross and ultimately forgave those who crucified Him. <b>(Luke 23:34)</b> Jesus died for our collective sins, for the officer who put his knee on George Floyd's neck, for the people who are perpetrating violence in our cities, for you and for me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In some ways we are not unlike that officer, putting our collective knees on the throat of Jesus, allowing a sinless, innocent man to die and suffer on a cross in agony. It's an ugly truth to think about and even harder to swallow. However, if we are followers of Jesus Christ, called to be His messengers of forgiveness and reconciliation then we need to emulate the example of our Lord. We need to stop sitting around in our peaceful bubble exchanging gracious platitudes like, "I have nothing against black people", or "I don't even notice color", or "Some of my best friends are black." We need to actively be peacemakers literally "making peace" through standing up for and speaking out against racial inequality. If Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had sat back and simply adopted the attitude, "Well, I'll just pray that the Lord will open the eyes of the white people and hopefully things will change," there would have been no Civil Rights Movement. However, He followed the example of Jesus to <i style="font-weight: bold;">do and teach </i>without violence and as a result the world took notice, responded, and change took place. I applaud similar actions that are taking place even in the midst of today's violence. Police officers are walking with protestors and at times kneeling with them. These officers are <i style="font-weight: bold;">doing </i>something and by their actions <i style="font-weight: bold;">teaching </i>people that the injustice needs to end. I am a black woman but my identity is not found in my color or my gender but my identity is rooted in Jesus Christ. Racism is sewn into the fabric of our culture and will continue to exist as long as the heart of mankind remains unchanged apart from transformation through Jesus Christ. However, like Dr. King brought forth change through peaceful non-violence we can <i style="font-weight: bold;">do </i>the same and <i style="font-weight: bold;">teach </i>others by example. And as our Lord told His disciples, <b>"Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you </b><i style="font-weight: bold;">do </i><span style="font-weight: bold;">them."</span> (John 13:17 NIV)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Peace and Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span><br />
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RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6962601505661831780.post-21197272654324989192020-05-03T12:27:00.001-07:002020-05-03T12:27:28.860-07:00The New "Underground Church"<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>"On the evening of the first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" After He said this, He showed them His hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord." </b>(John 20:19-20)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The corona virus pandemic has certainly changed our world. The ability to move freely from place to place, to come together in large gatherings, and spend time in close proximity to one another has been radically transformed. The disciples world had also been radically altered after Jesus' death. The ability to walk with Him, talk with Him, and eat with Him shifted dramatically after the crucifixion. The rules of the game had changed and the disciples found themselves adopting a new coping strategy. John tells us that the disciples had locked themselves away behind closed doors for fear of the Jews. <b>(John 20:19 NIV) </b>When, in the past, had they ever experienced a situation so dramatic, that it negatively impacted their behavior and the way they did life together? After Jesus' death, the disciples didn't immediately go home to their families, John tells us they were locked behind closed doors <b style="font-style: italic;">together. </b>The text appears to imply there was no family contact out of fear of the consequences. These consequences which could result in potential arrest by the Jews, appeared to be a matter of life or death. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our current stay at home advisory is not unlike the feelings the disciples may have experienced. We are "locked away" from our loved ones. We dare not venture out too far or have too much physical contact with others, lest we find ourselves in a life or death situation. As the disciples found themselves with their backs against the wall, they received a wonderful surprise, Jesus came to be with them. Jesus knew what was happening and He came to bring peace, the shalom of God, to their anxious hearts. Jesus could have immediately ascended back to His heavenly Father and left the disciples to figure things out on their own. However, even after undergoing torturous suffering and an agonizing death, Jesus after His resurrection came back to take care of His disciples. After confirming that His presence was real, showing them His hands and side, the reaction of the disciples was one of overwhelming joy because as John states, <b>"they<i> saw </i>the Lord." </b>(John 20:20 NIV) For us, Jesus has ascended back to His heavenly Father but He has not left us on our own. His presence is with us through His Holy Spirit. Jesus speaks the same <b>"peace be with you"</b> as He did to his frightened disciples. When we realize that His presence is always with us, we have in essence "seen" the Lord, not with physical but spiritual eyes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Prior to this pandemic, we as the church are aware that we have brothers and sisters who today find themselves in a similar situation as the disciples. There are places in the world where Christians have the potential to be persecuted and even martyred for publicly sharing the gospel. They need to meet behind closed doors and are often referred to as the "underground church." Yet, they experience the presence of Christ behind those locked doors as they continue to meet, study God's word, and pray together. In our present situation, we in some ways are the new "underground church." We may not be in hiding out of fear of persecution but we are meeting behind closed doors out of concern for ourselves and others related to contracting the corona virus. Nevertheless, like the disciples we are <b><i>together</i></b> behind closed doors not physically, yet we remain spiritually connected to one another through the God-given gift of technology. Moreover, Jesus still speaks, <b>"peace be with you" </b>in the midst of our struggles. As a result of knowing our Lord is with us, we like the disciples can experience great joy for we have "seen" the Lord. May the shalom of our Lord encourage and sustain you during this challenging time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Because of Jesus,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Pastor Sheree</i></b></span><br />
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RevShereehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17933350741992620259noreply@blogger.com0