Finding Rest
Today at MCC, we talked about things that lead us astray from our identity in God. Pastor Henry read from
Jeremiah 50:1-10 which describes the people who have wandered astray as lost sheep who have forgotten their resting place. St. Augustine best describes the cure for our plight when he said, "Our hearts are restless, O Lord, until they rest in you."
Going with the Lost theme, we saw what happened to the person who had won the lottery - we saw how money failed to build character, but instead revealed character and this person remained lost with all his money. We talked about many things which can lead us astray: advertising, cars, money, neighbors,internet, Hollywood, actors, community expectations, clothes, shoes, pleasure, politicians, TV & radio talk, food, health, medicine, education. In short, anything that we seek to fill us besides God leads us astray. If we seek God first, He changes us and these things can become tools we can use for God's kingdom rather than cures for our empty souls.
"This is what the Lord says: 'Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.'" Jeremiah 6:16
Labels: Lent
Finding the Lost
During the season of Lent, we'll be talking about the spiritually lost. Pastors Henry & Amy shared with us their feelings during a time when they each felt physically lost and we talked about how that compares to being spiritually lost. Amy was lost on an island without a map and Henry was rolled around dizzily in a great wave without air to breathe. Both were overcome by fear, irrationality and regret over bad decisions and mistakes made.
In Psalm 119, we hear the psalmist talk about how thankful he is for all the rules that God has given him. As Christians, we are reminded that we have God's word as a map for our lives. We are given actual directions to find our way out spiritually, and Jesus is our leader. He is the only way to real life.
We were encouraged to think of 3 people who are lost and to pray for them throughout lent. I thought of 3 people who I wasn't sure about and I'll be reminded to pray that Jesus will lead them home when I see the cord with 3 beads.
"I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands." Psalm 119:176
Labels: Lent
We Worship
Today, Pastor Amy read from
I Corinthians 12-13 about spiritual gifts and the most necessary ingredient for the expression of these gifts which is love. When we use our gifts, they are only effective if we do them out of love for God and His people. We have the example of the Trinity to look to for unity in diversity, and so as we exercise our diverse gifts, we need to maintain unity by appreciating the gifts of others. This will show love and appreciation for others.
My dream for MCC is that it continues to be a place where people feel welcomed and affirmed in who they are as children of God, that it remains a place where God's word is central and He is praised. I would love to use my photography skills where I can. I have been taking my camera to church for the past month or two to be open to its use, but I hesitate to be disruptive, so I haven't done much. I also wouldn't mind a friendly game of Off-the Table every now & then :)
Labels: worship
Listening to God
Today at MCC Pastor Henry read from
Isaiah 55 where God invites us to come and listen. In this text, we see how He desires that we have a relationship with Him and that we seek Him so our souls will live. In our world, so many things compete for attention, but to give our attention to God is worth it all because from Him we get rest, mercy, forgiveness, life, joy, faithful love - things that money can't buy. We need to turn away from our own thoughts and ways and seek Him.
We had a chance then to listen to God together while the band sang. God confirmed to me that I was where I should be praising Him with His people and listening to His Word. Everything that makes us focus on God serves His purpose and is good for that reason, and we should encourage and continue with those things in our lives.
Knowing You Jesus, knowing you.
There is no greater thing.
Knowing You, You're the best
You're my joy, my righteousness,
And I love You.
What did you hear God say to you today? I hope we will all remember to listen and answer this question every day.
Labels: worship
