SABRINA
Good Morning and Happy Halloween. Here is just a thought for the day.
Have you ever thought about how being a pumpkin is a lot like being a Christian.
We all start out like
pumpkins. When we say 'yes' to God, he picks us up out of the garden and he gently washes away the dirt.
Then He looks inside us and scoops out all of the yucky stuff - the seeds of hurt, rejection, all of the ugliness.
With our hearts clean, we begin to smile, to see the world in a different way, and before long, the light of Jesus shines from within us because Jesus has taken us out of the darkness and into His wonderful light. Now isn’t that a wonderful way to begin this day!
Go forward today in God’s love and peace!
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
JIM CAIN
GOOD MORNING!
I had walked too far, ending up in a neighborhood unfamiliar to me. A glance at my cell phone told me the battery had long since died. The streetlights came on, and I hurried from one pale pool of light to the next, desperately searching for some familiar landmark.
Finally, admitting I was lost, I approached a house where the movement of a curtain in the front window suggested someone was home. Hoping for directions or the use of a phone, I knocked on the door.
The man who opened the door appeared strangely pleased to see me, as though he had been waiting for someone he didn’t know. With a smile he ushered me into the dimly lit room. Responding to my confession of being lost, he said, “So, then no one knows you’re here.” And as he finished talking, I heard a key turn in the lock.
Do you ever feel lost and afraid in this world? In John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”
GOOD MORNING!
I had walked too far, ending up in a neighborhood unfamiliar to me. A glance at my cell phone told me the battery had long since died. The streetlights came on, and I hurried from one pale pool of light to the next, desperately searching for some familiar landmark.
Finally, admitting I was lost, I approached a house where the movement of a curtain in the front window suggested someone was home. Hoping for directions or the use of a phone, I knocked on the door.
The man who opened the door appeared strangely pleased to see me, as though he had been waiting for someone he didn’t know. With a smile he ushered me into the dimly lit room. Responding to my confession of being lost, he said, “So, then no one knows you’re here.” And as he finished talking, I heard a key turn in the lock.
Do you ever feel lost and afraid in this world? In John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”
Monday, October 29, 2012
Monday, October 29, 2012
GLENDA
Good Morning: “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.” Psalm 56:3. That's the Bible verse for the month of October at the Children's Center.
During the next few days, children all over Meridian will be hearing about ghosts and goblins and all kinds of scary things. At the Children's Center, we have been stressing the importance of having a good time during Halloween, but we also want them to learn about the difference between make believe and the real thing: God. There's nothing wrong with pretending. In fact most children learn a lot through play and in pretending. It's our job as adults to teach them what pretending is and give them an alternative. That alternative is the Love and Care of God for each one of us.
So, if you have fears in your life, just repeat that Bible verse: “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you” and teach that to your children. It helps when you are scared and feel all alone. It will remind you that you are not alone and through your trust in God, your fears can be erased. Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning: “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.” Psalm 56:3. That's the Bible verse for the month of October at the Children's Center.
During the next few days, children all over Meridian will be hearing about ghosts and goblins and all kinds of scary things. At the Children's Center, we have been stressing the importance of having a good time during Halloween, but we also want them to learn about the difference between make believe and the real thing: God. There's nothing wrong with pretending. In fact most children learn a lot through play and in pretending. It's our job as adults to teach them what pretending is and give them an alternative. That alternative is the Love and Care of God for each one of us.
So, if you have fears in your life, just repeat that Bible verse: “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you” and teach that to your children. It helps when you are scared and feel all alone. It will remind you that you are not alone and through your trust in God, your fears can be erased. Have a wonderful day!
Friday, October 26, 2012
Friday, October 26, 2012
JIM CAIN
GOOD MORNING!
The 7 sons of Sceva, a high priest, were traveling from town to town casting out evil spirits. They tried to use the name of Jesus in their incantation, saying, “I command you in the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, to come out!” But once when they tried it, a demon replied, “I know Jesus, and I know Paul, but who are you?” Then the man with the evil spirit leaped on them, overpowered them, and attacked them with such violence that they fled from the house, naked and battered.
The sons of Sceva were using the name of Jesus Christ as if the name alone had power, but they were NOT believers in Jesus Christ the person. They merely developed faith in His name, they believed the stories… but they didn’t have the faith in the PERSON.
Evil spirits didn’t cower at the name simply because it was said. It was the faith in the person behind saying the name that vanquished demons. For it says in Romans 10:17, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.”
GOOD MORNING!
The 7 sons of Sceva, a high priest, were traveling from town to town casting out evil spirits. They tried to use the name of Jesus in their incantation, saying, “I command you in the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, to come out!” But once when they tried it, a demon replied, “I know Jesus, and I know Paul, but who are you?” Then the man with the evil spirit leaped on them, overpowered them, and attacked them with such violence that they fled from the house, naked and battered.
The sons of Sceva were using the name of Jesus Christ as if the name alone had power, but they were NOT believers in Jesus Christ the person. They merely developed faith in His name, they believed the stories… but they didn’t have the faith in the PERSON.
Evil spirits didn’t cower at the name simply because it was said. It was the faith in the person behind saying the name that vanquished demons. For it says in Romans 10:17, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.”
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Thursday, October 25, 2012
BOB PEDEN
We live in an impatient, fast-paced world, where we want everything done immediately, if not sooner. We don't want to wait. We don't want to slow down. We don't want to be patient.
Maybe we need to listen to these words from the book of Psalms in the Old Testament: "Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!" Be still. Be still and know that God is God.
Stop. Wait. Listen. God doesn't always respond in four seconds or less. While we won't have to stand in line, we may have to wait much more than fifteen minutes. The Bible says that for God a day is like a thousand years and a thousand years like a day. We can't rush him, nor give him a deadline. But he will answer. He will respond. He will save.
All we can do is be still. Be still and know that he is God.
Stop. Be still. And let God be God of your life.
We live in an impatient, fast-paced world, where we want everything done immediately, if not sooner. We don't want to wait. We don't want to slow down. We don't want to be patient.
Maybe we need to listen to these words from the book of Psalms in the Old Testament: "Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!" Be still. Be still and know that God is God.
Stop. Wait. Listen. God doesn't always respond in four seconds or less. While we won't have to stand in line, we may have to wait much more than fifteen minutes. The Bible says that for God a day is like a thousand years and a thousand years like a day. We can't rush him, nor give him a deadline. But he will answer. He will respond. He will save.
All we can do is be still. Be still and know that he is God.
Stop. Be still. And let God be God of your life.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Wednesday, October, 24, 2012
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central.
In Genesis, God tells Abraham that He is going to bless and make Abraham's name great. But more than that, God says that through Abraham, God would bless all the world. In other words, God isn't concerned about Abraham because Abraham is so great and deserves it. Abraham has done nothing to make himself worthy of such a promise. Instead, God blesses Abraham so that the entire world can experience the same blessing.
When God does something great for you or me, it isn't just about you or me. It is tempting in my spirituality to think God loves me because I am just so lovable and great to be around. But God is concerned about more people than just you or me. But if we hoard all that we get for our own use and benefit, we cut off the pipeline that God wants to use to bring peace to the entire world. By selfishly hoarding, we create jealousy and envy in others. And instead of a world of prosperity and peace, we live in conflict and destroy what God has given. But love does not hoard... it is generous and brings peace!
May God bless you!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central.
In Genesis, God tells Abraham that He is going to bless and make Abraham's name great. But more than that, God says that through Abraham, God would bless all the world. In other words, God isn't concerned about Abraham because Abraham is so great and deserves it. Abraham has done nothing to make himself worthy of such a promise. Instead, God blesses Abraham so that the entire world can experience the same blessing.
When God does something great for you or me, it isn't just about you or me. It is tempting in my spirituality to think God loves me because I am just so lovable and great to be around. But God is concerned about more people than just you or me. But if we hoard all that we get for our own use and benefit, we cut off the pipeline that God wants to use to bring peace to the entire world. By selfishly hoarding, we create jealousy and envy in others. And instead of a world of prosperity and peace, we live in conflict and destroy what God has given. But love does not hoard... it is generous and brings peace!
May God bless you!
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
SABRINA
With our 7th grandchild now here, I can easily tell each why they are my favorite. I never understood how that could be until I became a mother, and now a grandmother. HOW could I possibly love another child as much as I loved this one? It is one of the wonderful mysteries of life that God imparted into our human form.
In the same token, on a MUCH grander scale, God does that for each of us. HOW could God love the drug addict, murderer, money launderer as much as he loves the missionary who gave up countless comforts of life to go across the world to live in poverty? Because they, too, are His child.
Each of us have the distinction of being a child of God. Whatever mistakes we have made or not made in our past, not one of us is more important in God’s eyes. Our God is a God of the present and we are loved equally.
Acknowledging the gift of God’s grace is a wonderful way to begin this day! Have a blessed one!
With our 7th grandchild now here, I can easily tell each why they are my favorite. I never understood how that could be until I became a mother, and now a grandmother. HOW could I possibly love another child as much as I loved this one? It is one of the wonderful mysteries of life that God imparted into our human form.
In the same token, on a MUCH grander scale, God does that for each of us. HOW could God love the drug addict, murderer, money launderer as much as he loves the missionary who gave up countless comforts of life to go across the world to live in poverty? Because they, too, are His child.
Each of us have the distinction of being a child of God. Whatever mistakes we have made or not made in our past, not one of us is more important in God’s eyes. Our God is a God of the present and we are loved equally.
Acknowledging the gift of God’s grace is a wonderful way to begin this day! Have a blessed one!
Monday, October 22, 2012
Monday, October 22, 2012
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central.
Power and rights are like a delicious meal. As Americans, we think if we can get stronger or if we can assert ourselves more, we can have a life of prosperity, popularity, and peace. The Constitution is built on this idea. We build ourselves up so our life goes the way we want and people will listen to us. But like any food, too much is unhealthy and can destroy your heart. We can become imprisoned in the shackles of narcissism and only care about ourselves, not others.
But in the book of Genesis, God tells Abraham that HE will bless Abraham and make Abraham's name great; Abraham doesn’t do it himself. The only thing God tells Abraham to do is to go into a new land, instead of staying in his homeland where the security of his family resided. If Abraham is faithful to that call, God would bless and increase Abraham's reputation. Abraham could then act in love towards others instead of being self-absorbed.
Only when we are concerned more about God's concerns and not our own can we both genuinely love others and experience true blessing.
May God bless you!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central.
Power and rights are like a delicious meal. As Americans, we think if we can get stronger or if we can assert ourselves more, we can have a life of prosperity, popularity, and peace. The Constitution is built on this idea. We build ourselves up so our life goes the way we want and people will listen to us. But like any food, too much is unhealthy and can destroy your heart. We can become imprisoned in the shackles of narcissism and only care about ourselves, not others.
But in the book of Genesis, God tells Abraham that HE will bless Abraham and make Abraham's name great; Abraham doesn’t do it himself. The only thing God tells Abraham to do is to go into a new land, instead of staying in his homeland where the security of his family resided. If Abraham is faithful to that call, God would bless and increase Abraham's reputation. Abraham could then act in love towards others instead of being self-absorbed.
Only when we are concerned more about God's concerns and not our own can we both genuinely love others and experience true blessing.
May God bless you!
Friday, October 19, 2012
Friday, October 19, 2012
SABRINA
I recently had our two oldest grandchildren, Will and Aubrye, with me. Aubrye, who is six, began naming the pets in their family.... Dixie, Bear, Elmo, Stella, and Penelope. Will quickly said, Aubrye, Stella died, she is not part of our family. Aubrye replied, yes she is, we have her memories and that makes her part of our family.
How profound. What a comforting observation. Just because our loved ones may no longer be with us, they are no less a part of our family. It also made me think of how we, as families, need to be very intentional about taking time to make those memories with our loved ones. In today's hectic world do we take time to slow down the pace of life and spend quality time with our families to talk around the table, take a walk spend time with our older relatives?
At creation, God realized the need for family and the relationships that evolve through family. If your family does not have a church home, I also would like to invite you to join my family, three generations, at Central this Sunday. We would love to see you there!
I recently had our two oldest grandchildren, Will and Aubrye, with me. Aubrye, who is six, began naming the pets in their family.... Dixie, Bear, Elmo, Stella, and Penelope. Will quickly said, Aubrye, Stella died, she is not part of our family. Aubrye replied, yes she is, we have her memories and that makes her part of our family.
How profound. What a comforting observation. Just because our loved ones may no longer be with us, they are no less a part of our family. It also made me think of how we, as families, need to be very intentional about taking time to make those memories with our loved ones. In today's hectic world do we take time to slow down the pace of life and spend quality time with our families to talk around the table, take a walk spend time with our older relatives?
At creation, God realized the need for family and the relationships that evolve through family. If your family does not have a church home, I also would like to invite you to join my family, three generations, at Central this Sunday. We would love to see you there!
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Thursday, October 18, 2012
GLENDA
Good Morning: Do you believe that God sends animals to give us comfort? I do. I had a beautiful German Shepherd years ago named Teppi. Teppi was an outside dog and spent most of her hours lying on the front porch. She only barked when something or someone came into our yard. We lived next door to an elderly couple.
One night Teppi barked so much that the lady next door had to slam her window down to keep out the noise.
The next day, she let me know about it. This couple walked together every afternoon for exercise. One day the time came when the man died. The lady didn't walk for many weeks. On the first day that she ventured out on her own, she passed by our house as usual. Teppi got up from the porch, went out to the street, and fell in step beside her. That was the start of a beautiful friendship.
Every afternoon from that day on, my neighbor had a companion again to walk with her. Teppi sensed that our neighbor needed someone, and she filled that spot. I think it was a God Thing! Yes, God will use any of his creatures when there is a need. Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning: Do you believe that God sends animals to give us comfort? I do. I had a beautiful German Shepherd years ago named Teppi. Teppi was an outside dog and spent most of her hours lying on the front porch. She only barked when something or someone came into our yard. We lived next door to an elderly couple.
One night Teppi barked so much that the lady next door had to slam her window down to keep out the noise.
The next day, she let me know about it. This couple walked together every afternoon for exercise. One day the time came when the man died. The lady didn't walk for many weeks. On the first day that she ventured out on her own, she passed by our house as usual. Teppi got up from the porch, went out to the street, and fell in step beside her. That was the start of a beautiful friendship.
Every afternoon from that day on, my neighbor had a companion again to walk with her. Teppi sensed that our neighbor needed someone, and she filled that spot. I think it was a God Thing! Yes, God will use any of his creatures when there is a need. Have a wonderful day!
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Last month I had the privilege of spending a night at sea aboard a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman. Along with a group of others from Meridian, we toured the ship and observed the crew at work for 24 hours. I was struck by the dedication and commitment of the crew to their mission of keeping America safe and of being a force for good in the world.
Jesus had a mission, too – to spread the news of God’s love and mercy to everyone he could. And when Jesus couldn’t carry out this mission alone, he asked those who follow him to complete the task. We are asked to be “messengers” of God in the world.
We’re all “messengers” for something or someone; who are you a messenger for? What “messages” are you sending?
Make it a great day!
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Last month I had the privilege of spending a night at sea aboard a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman. Along with a group of others from Meridian, we toured the ship and observed the crew at work for 24 hours. I was struck by the dedication and commitment of the crew to their mission of keeping America safe and of being a force for good in the world.
Jesus had a mission, too – to spread the news of God’s love and mercy to everyone he could. And when Jesus couldn’t carry out this mission alone, he asked those who follow him to complete the task. We are asked to be “messengers” of God in the world.
We’re all “messengers” for something or someone; who are you a messenger for? What “messages” are you sending?
Make it a great day!
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
BOB PEDEN
He knew that the asker already knew the answer, so to deflect blame and redirect the intent of the original question he asked one of his own. "Am I my brother's keeper?" And since that time, Cain's question has been repeated over and over by people who do not want to be responsible for the influence they have had on the actions of others.
Jesus said we are to be salt and light as well as His witnesses to those around us. We are responsible for those around us, responsible to help each other avoid those things that would separate us from God Almighty.
We are our brother's keeper. But, and this makes all the difference, we are to hold each other accountable to the teachings of Jesus as members of a family, wanting the best for each other.
Accountability is not difficult when those monitoring it and those who are experiencing know and understand that it's being done of their betterment.
Am I my brother's keeper? Absolutely!
He knew that the asker already knew the answer, so to deflect blame and redirect the intent of the original question he asked one of his own. "Am I my brother's keeper?" And since that time, Cain's question has been repeated over and over by people who do not want to be responsible for the influence they have had on the actions of others.
Jesus said we are to be salt and light as well as His witnesses to those around us. We are responsible for those around us, responsible to help each other avoid those things that would separate us from God Almighty.
We are our brother's keeper. But, and this makes all the difference, we are to hold each other accountable to the teachings of Jesus as members of a family, wanting the best for each other.
Accountability is not difficult when those monitoring it and those who are experiencing know and understand that it's being done of their betterment.
Am I my brother's keeper? Absolutely!
Monday, October 15, 2012
Monday, October 15, 2012
JIM WALL
Good Morning!
Fred Rogers, host of the long-running children’s show, Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood, died in 2003. He was well known to children and their parents as a kind and gentle person who genuinely believed that each person is special, deep inside, just the way they are. Because Mr. Rogers recognized the value of each person, he believed in being a good neighbor to all.
When Jesus was asked, “Who is my neighbor?” he told the parable of the Good Samaritan. At the conclusion, the Lord asked, “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?” The answer? He who showed mercy on him.
Who in our neighborhood needs a kind word or an act of friendship today? Jesus calls us to show love and compassion to others as we love God with all our heart and our neighbor as ourselves.
Good Morning!
Fred Rogers, host of the long-running children’s show, Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood, died in 2003. He was well known to children and their parents as a kind and gentle person who genuinely believed that each person is special, deep inside, just the way they are. Because Mr. Rogers recognized the value of each person, he believed in being a good neighbor to all.
When Jesus was asked, “Who is my neighbor?” he told the parable of the Good Samaritan. At the conclusion, the Lord asked, “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?” The answer? He who showed mercy on him.
Who in our neighborhood needs a kind word or an act of friendship today? Jesus calls us to show love and compassion to others as we love God with all our heart and our neighbor as ourselves.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Thursday, October 11, 2012
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central.
We live in a time where we are bombarded by many frightful and anger-arousing messages all around us: on the radio, the television, the computer, and even our phones. It is very easy for us to get obsessed about what is wrong and scary in life. We become hyper-vigilant, watching around every corner for the next threat. We become easily offended, finding insult in the slightest word. Bitterness, anger, and fear can easily consume us, because what we focus on forms who we are.
But in Philippians 4:8, the Apostle Paul encourages people to focus on different things. “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”
When we focus on the good things in the world, like the things Jesus did, we can create a different perspective on life. Instead of bitterness, anger, and fear filling our lives in an obsession over evil, celebration, gratitude, and peace can define our lives and how we live with others.
May God bless you!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central.
We live in a time where we are bombarded by many frightful and anger-arousing messages all around us: on the radio, the television, the computer, and even our phones. It is very easy for us to get obsessed about what is wrong and scary in life. We become hyper-vigilant, watching around every corner for the next threat. We become easily offended, finding insult in the slightest word. Bitterness, anger, and fear can easily consume us, because what we focus on forms who we are.
But in Philippians 4:8, the Apostle Paul encourages people to focus on different things. “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”
When we focus on the good things in the world, like the things Jesus did, we can create a different perspective on life. Instead of bitterness, anger, and fear filling our lives in an obsession over evil, celebration, gratitude, and peace can define our lives and how we live with others.
May God bless you!
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Wednesday, October 10, 2013
JIMMY CARLE
Good morning. On January 29th of this year, my family experienced firsthand a true Miracle. Without warning, my wife’s life was taken away when her heart stopped beating while at church…only to be given back when doctors established a heartbeat one hour later. To me, it seems like an incredible waste to have witnessed a Miracle and not do anything about it. To not share it with anyone that will listen. To not self evaluate and determine how I can make a difference.
Everyday miracles can be small or large; and we all experience them, sometimes firsthand and sometimes secondhand.
Have you experienced a Miracle recently? Have you heard God knocking? How will you respond? John 20:30-31 “Now, Jesus did many miraculous signs in the presence of the disciples…. recorded so that you may believe that Jesus is the Son of God…..and that by believing in Him, you will have life.”
Good morning. On January 29th of this year, my family experienced firsthand a true Miracle. Without warning, my wife’s life was taken away when her heart stopped beating while at church…only to be given back when doctors established a heartbeat one hour later. To me, it seems like an incredible waste to have witnessed a Miracle and not do anything about it. To not share it with anyone that will listen. To not self evaluate and determine how I can make a difference.
Everyday miracles can be small or large; and we all experience them, sometimes firsthand and sometimes secondhand.
Have you experienced a Miracle recently? Have you heard God knocking? How will you respond? John 20:30-31 “Now, Jesus did many miraculous signs in the presence of the disciples…. recorded so that you may believe that Jesus is the Son of God…..and that by believing in Him, you will have life.”
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Wednesday, October 9, 2012
JIM CAIN
GOOD MORNING!
With Meridian having just hosted another successful run of the Queen City Fair, it seems only fitting to take a moment and reflect on the fairs of our youth. Do you remember going to the fair and walking through the maze of mirrors? Some would make you look like Danny Devito while other’s made us look as big as Shaquille O’Neal. Others just made you look plain weird and twisted.
To get a proper perspective about who we are, we have got to look into a mirror that will give us an accurate and truthful reflection. That mirror is the Word of God. However, when we walk away from God’s mirror, we have to remember what kind of person His Word wants us to be. That means when we look into God’s Word, we’ve got to take more than a casual glance, we need to look with a penetrating focus.
GOOD MORNING!
With Meridian having just hosted another successful run of the Queen City Fair, it seems only fitting to take a moment and reflect on the fairs of our youth. Do you remember going to the fair and walking through the maze of mirrors? Some would make you look like Danny Devito while other’s made us look as big as Shaquille O’Neal. Others just made you look plain weird and twisted.
To get a proper perspective about who we are, we have got to look into a mirror that will give us an accurate and truthful reflection. That mirror is the Word of God. However, when we walk away from God’s mirror, we have to remember what kind of person His Word wants us to be. That means when we look into God’s Word, we’ve got to take more than a casual glance, we need to look with a penetrating focus.
Monday, October 8, 2012
Monday, October 8, 2012
GLENDA
Good Morning: Today is Columbus Day. It is meant to commemorate Oct. 12, 1492, the day when the Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus, sailed from Spain and “discovered” the Americas.
One of the oldest holidays in the United States, Columbus Day, dates back all the way to 1792. In the last few years, there has been a lot of controversy about celebrating this day. In spite of the controversy, there is a deeper meaning behind this holiday. It really doesn't matter when people knew America existed. We already have a holiday for that. It's the Fourth of July. It doesn't matter who set foot here first. The fact is: Columbus Day is more about discovery. It's an idea that rings true even today; just as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness ring true for every American, Discovery is the belief that the unknown is still out there. That kind of imagination and determination created a country where everyone is entitled to self-expression, freedom of religion, and the right to vote.
Where would we be today if we hadn't discovered our own America for ourselves. God bless America and have a happy Columbus Day!
Good Morning: Today is Columbus Day. It is meant to commemorate Oct. 12, 1492, the day when the Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus, sailed from Spain and “discovered” the Americas.
One of the oldest holidays in the United States, Columbus Day, dates back all the way to 1792. In the last few years, there has been a lot of controversy about celebrating this day. In spite of the controversy, there is a deeper meaning behind this holiday. It really doesn't matter when people knew America existed. We already have a holiday for that. It's the Fourth of July. It doesn't matter who set foot here first. The fact is: Columbus Day is more about discovery. It's an idea that rings true even today; just as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness ring true for every American, Discovery is the belief that the unknown is still out there. That kind of imagination and determination created a country where everyone is entitled to self-expression, freedom of religion, and the right to vote.
Where would we be today if we hadn't discovered our own America for ourselves. God bless America and have a happy Columbus Day!
Friday, October 5, 2012
Friday, October 5, 2012
BOB PEDEN
Should I be afraid of God? No. Yes. Sometimes. In some ways. It depends on what you mean.
How's that for a definite answer? This example that helps me understand it a bit. I sit in an office day after day, surrounded by electricity. There are electrical cables in the walls around me and in the ceiling over my head. Numerous power cords are plugged in near my feet.
I'm not afraid. In fact, I'm glad that I have electricity in my office. It gives me light and lets me use my computer and other devices. I'm not afraid of electricity. But I'm not going to stick a fork into an outlet, either. I fear electricity and its power, but I don’t let it keep me from relying on it.
Likewise, I shouldn't live a fearful life, walking around thinking that God is going to strike me down at any time. That's not love. That's not what God wants. But I should have reverence for God and his power.
Do you fear God? Are you living a life of reverence? If not, then I don't think you know who God is.
Should I be afraid of God? No. Yes. Sometimes. In some ways. It depends on what you mean.
How's that for a definite answer? This example that helps me understand it a bit. I sit in an office day after day, surrounded by electricity. There are electrical cables in the walls around me and in the ceiling over my head. Numerous power cords are plugged in near my feet.
I'm not afraid. In fact, I'm glad that I have electricity in my office. It gives me light and lets me use my computer and other devices. I'm not afraid of electricity. But I'm not going to stick a fork into an outlet, either. I fear electricity and its power, but I don’t let it keep me from relying on it.
Likewise, I shouldn't live a fearful life, walking around thinking that God is going to strike me down at any time. That's not love. That's not what God wants. But I should have reverence for God and his power.
Do you fear God? Are you living a life of reverence? If not, then I don't think you know who God is.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Thursday, October 4, 2012
SABRINA
My husband Rick and I often go to a local restaurant with another couple. After only a couple of visits to this restaurant, we walked in, only to have the waiter who had served us before, look at each of us and quickly tell us our drink order. It was a good feeling to know that our being there had made an impression, and we were remembered.
It also made me realize how paying attention to the small, relatively insignificant details can make another person feel special.
Jesus paid attention to what we might think small insignificant details - children, a woman who touched the hem of his garment, a small man in a tree.
I am often so focused, with tunnel vision that I miss not only the details, but the people along my path. A very nice man in a restaurant quietly, unknowingly, preached a sermon to me, reminding me that details are significant.
I encourage you to join me in taking this gentleman's silent sermon to heart. To someone today, you could be the only person who seemingly cares. To someone today, your attention to detail could be the world.
My husband Rick and I often go to a local restaurant with another couple. After only a couple of visits to this restaurant, we walked in, only to have the waiter who had served us before, look at each of us and quickly tell us our drink order. It was a good feeling to know that our being there had made an impression, and we were remembered.
It also made me realize how paying attention to the small, relatively insignificant details can make another person feel special.
Jesus paid attention to what we might think small insignificant details - children, a woman who touched the hem of his garment, a small man in a tree.
I am often so focused, with tunnel vision that I miss not only the details, but the people along my path. A very nice man in a restaurant quietly, unknowingly, preached a sermon to me, reminding me that details are significant.
I encourage you to join me in taking this gentleman's silent sermon to heart. To someone today, you could be the only person who seemingly cares. To someone today, your attention to detail could be the world.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
JIM WALL
Good Morning!
A mild-mannered man was reading a book about being self-assertive and decided to start at home. So he stormed into his house, pointed a finger at his wife, and said, “From now on I’m the boss around here and my word is the law! I want you to prepare me a gourmet meal and draw my bath. Then, after I’ve eaten and finished my bath, guess who’s going to dress me and comb my hair.” “The mortician,” replied his wife.
Good leaders don’t rely on dominating others – not at home, in church, or in business. They balance self-assertiveness with the principle of submitting to one another. They listen respectfully, admit when they are wrong, show a willingness to change, and mix gentleness with firmness. Submissive leadership requires a kind and gentle honesty that will attend to others’ needs and win their love and loyalty.
Good Morning!
A mild-mannered man was reading a book about being self-assertive and decided to start at home. So he stormed into his house, pointed a finger at his wife, and said, “From now on I’m the boss around here and my word is the law! I want you to prepare me a gourmet meal and draw my bath. Then, after I’ve eaten and finished my bath, guess who’s going to dress me and comb my hair.” “The mortician,” replied his wife.
Good leaders don’t rely on dominating others – not at home, in church, or in business. They balance self-assertiveness with the principle of submitting to one another. They listen respectfully, admit when they are wrong, show a willingness to change, and mix gentleness with firmness. Submissive leadership requires a kind and gentle honesty that will attend to others’ needs and win their love and loyalty.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
GLENDA
Good Morning: I've told this story before, but it is so special to me that I wanted to tell it again. A few years ago, our three year classes at the Children's Center had quite an adventure. They were riding the elevator to the third floor when, all of a sudden, the elevator stopped and they were stuck between floors. Mr. John was called to the rescue. As he worked on the elevator from the outside, the children inside were being reminded by their teachers who they were supposed to call on when they needed help. Gracie folded her hands, and said, “God help us, Amen.” At that moment the elevators doors opened, and Mr. John looked down on them. One of the teachers laughingly said, “We didn't know that God looked like Mr. John.”
What a wonderful way to teach our children that God looks exactly like Mr. John. Any time we do something to help others, anytime we are kind to others, anytime we reach out to others, God is using us and showing himself through us. Remember that and have a wonderful day!
Good Morning: I've told this story before, but it is so special to me that I wanted to tell it again. A few years ago, our three year classes at the Children's Center had quite an adventure. They were riding the elevator to the third floor when, all of a sudden, the elevator stopped and they were stuck between floors. Mr. John was called to the rescue. As he worked on the elevator from the outside, the children inside were being reminded by their teachers who they were supposed to call on when they needed help. Gracie folded her hands, and said, “God help us, Amen.” At that moment the elevators doors opened, and Mr. John looked down on them. One of the teachers laughingly said, “We didn't know that God looked like Mr. John.”
What a wonderful way to teach our children that God looks exactly like Mr. John. Any time we do something to help others, anytime we are kind to others, anytime we reach out to others, God is using us and showing himself through us. Remember that and have a wonderful day!
Monday, October 1, 2012
Monday, October 1, 2012
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central.
In 1982, Sony launched the first electronic device that would use a CD. CDs contain so much information in such a little space. Never had such a density of information been made available to so many. Today we see that trend continue to develop. Except, we don't need to carry a CD; we carry around our phones to search information on the internet that has millions times more information. It is easy to always find something new to grab our attention.
It is easy to forget, then, that there is value in studying something we have heard and seen before. Our desire for novelty can make the 2000 year old Bible seem... well... boring. But just as a CD packs a lot of data in a little space, so too the Bible can pack a lot of wisdom in a few words. However, it takes time to explore it. It isn't instant like electronics. But it is that time to explore that allows you to absorb what you find in the Bible. Just how much do you really remember from all those YouTube videos you watched only once?
May God bless you!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central.
In 1982, Sony launched the first electronic device that would use a CD. CDs contain so much information in such a little space. Never had such a density of information been made available to so many. Today we see that trend continue to develop. Except, we don't need to carry a CD; we carry around our phones to search information on the internet that has millions times more information. It is easy to always find something new to grab our attention.
It is easy to forget, then, that there is value in studying something we have heard and seen before. Our desire for novelty can make the 2000 year old Bible seem... well... boring. But just as a CD packs a lot of data in a little space, so too the Bible can pack a lot of wisdom in a few words. However, it takes time to explore it. It isn't instant like electronics. But it is that time to explore that allows you to absorb what you find in the Bible. Just how much do you really remember from all those YouTube videos you watched only once?
May God bless you!
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