Pastor George Spicer

The joy of refreshing your Greek

2012-03-01T12:31:00.000-08:00

I'm in the process of refreshing my Greek so that I can spend more time reading the New Testament in the original language. Right now I'm translating the Gospel of John and made an interesting discovery. The NIV renders John 1:11 like this: He came to that which was His own, but His own did not receive Him. But verse 11 literally reads: To His own He came, and His own Himself they did not receive.

John seems to be emphasising a point with the use of idioi autov. I get the sense that John is amazed, flabbergasted in fact, that His own, the Jewish nation, rejected Himself the promised One of God! This emphasis doesn't really come out in the the English translations I've looked at. But it hits you right between the eyes when read in the Greek.

A friend once questioned the reasoning why the seminaries taught Hebrew and Greek. He said, "There are plenty of English translations of the Old and New Testaments. Why learn the languages?" My little "aha" moment the other day simply reinforced the need for pastors to be able to read the Scriptures in the original languages. This is the joy of digging in the Scriptures. You never know what you'll find but you're sure to be blessed!

Come hear the ensemble

2012-02-29T09:57:00.000-08:00

Among the many blessings we enjoy at Life in Christ is our music ministry. Our adult choir, under Lori's leadership has really blossomed in the past few years. Our bell choir, under Ginny's leadership, continually lifts up our hearts. Our children's and Sunday school choirs bless us every time they sing.

Tonight at our mid-week worship service we are excited for the debut of our new LICL Ensemble. A group of 10 musicians have been practicing for a little while and are ready to perform for us. The selection they will play is "As the Deer." I haven't heard them practice but the buzz is that the ensemble is really good. So join us tonight. Quick supper is served at 5:30 pm. Worship starts at 7 pm. We continue to look at the life of God's wayward and disobedient prophet, Jonah. Plus very special music from our ensemble. Be here!

A Battle Royale

2012-02-23T13:21:00.000-08:00

The first Sunday in Lent usually focuses on the battle between Jesus and the devil in the wilderness. Of course, Jesus wins the battle. But what does that mean to you and me? Come and learn more this Sunday during our worship at 8 am and 10:45 am. Sunday school, Confirmation, High School youth and adult Bible classes meet at 9:15 am. Come and meet the friendliest people in town this Sunday at Life in Christ!

What Are You Giving Up For Lent?

2012-02-21T10:45:00.000-08:00

As I understand it, Homer Simpson loves donuts. So do I.

In fact, I love just about anything that’s sweet – donuts, cookies, candy (especially anything with chocolate)!

But I gave up all the sweet stuff for Lent.

That means I’ll be bypassing the See’s Dark Chocolate candies that sit in a bowl in our living room. That means I’ll not be eating those wonderful donuts that Gerry Schemers brings me every Friday. That means that I’ll be ignoring those Snicker’s candy bars that are strategically positioned around the grocery checkout.

Why give up anything? It seems that giving something up for Lent has gone the way of New Year’s resolutions. We invariably fail to do what we said we were going to do so why try at all.

I guess in the grand scheme of things, giving up sweet stuff isn’t a big deal.

Still, I’ll miss it. It might even hurt at times not to each all that sugar whenever I want it.

But, maybe, in some small way, it will remind me of the greater sacrifice my Lord and Savior made for me.

St. John called Jesus “the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” Jesus sacrificed Himself for your sins and mine. He did this so that we might again be one with God the Father. Our relationship was destroyed with the Father because of sin. Jesus has put things right again for us through His obedient life, His horrific death and victorious resurrection.

Again, giving up sweets isn’t a great sacrifice. But if it helps me to see better the sacrifice Jesus made for me, so much the better.

What can you give up for Lent? What might help you see the sacrificial love of your Lord and Savior in an even greater way?

Wise Words from Phillip Gulley

2012-02-17T07:32:00.000-08:00

Sometimes what we think we need isn't what we need at all, and what gets thrown in for good measure is that which fills our hearts.

From "Home to Harmony" page 16.

Always some kind of drama

2012-02-16T07:40:00.000-08:00

It's what my dear, sweet wife said as she walked out the door for work on Monday. Suddenly I had the inspiration I needed for this Sunday's sermon. So join us this Sunday, OK? Worship at 8 and 10:45 am with Sunday school, Confirmation, High School youth and adult Bible class at 9:15 am. We'd love to meet you this Sunday at Life in Christ!

How Much Do You Love God's House?

2012-02-14T09:09:00.000-08:00

One Sunday, the pastor of a church in Florida gathered the children in front of the altar for the children's message. He began by asking the question, "What does the word 'holy' mean?"

After a pause of a moment of two, a little girl raised her hand. She answered, "Being holy means that you do what your mother asked you to do the first time!"

Children's messages are just one of the reasons I love being in church on Sunday. You never know what priceless answers you just might get to one of your questions!

But the main reason I love being in the Lord's house on Sunday is because this is the place where we encounter our gracious and merciful God.

David writes in Psalm 27: One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what is seek; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek Him in His temple.

In Psalm 84, a chorus sings: Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere.

As the pilgrims made their way to the Temple during times of religious celebration, they would sing: I rejoice with those who said to me: 'Let us go to the house of the Lord'.

Not only is the Lord present in His house, He showers His people with rich gifts of grace - His Word of forgiveness, His very body and blood in, with and under the bread and wine of the Sacrament and the rich renewal of the Holy Spirit who comes to each of us in the Gospel.

I pray that the time you spend this week reading and meditating over God's Word lead you to exclaim on Sunday, "I love the house where You live, O Lord, the place where Your glory dwells!"

Who is this Jesus?

2012-02-09T11:16:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it's hard to understand Jesus. In Mark 1:40-45, He works a mighty miracle, healing a leper. But then He tells the healed man not to speak about this wonderful thing. Who does that? Come and learn more this Sunday. Worship at 8 and 10:45 am with Sunday school, Confirmation, High School and Adult Bible class at 9:15 am. You won't regret visiting Life in Christ!

Encouragement Comes In Unexpected Ways

2012-02-08T14:06:00.000-08:00

Some of the folks here at Life in Christ joined me a few weeks ago in making a New Year's resolution. We resolved that before we worshipped or went to Bible study or read our Bibles at home we would pray, "Speak, O Lord, for Your servant is listening."

Today, two of our members - Chuck and Pat - both told me about their experiences over the last week or so where the Lord had really spoken to them through His Holy Word. Both talked about the joy of discovering God's direction in their lives as they read the Scriptures and of the spiritual growth taking place in their lives through the work of the Holy Spirit.

During the Epiphany season of 1522, Martin Luther preached a sermon in which he shared these words: Therefore into the Bible, into the Bible, dear Christians...that we may grasp and taste the simple, pure Word of God and stay with it; for there alone God dwells in Zion.

Where does God dwell? In His Word! From where does the Lord speak? Through His Word. Will God speak to you? He did to Chuck and Pat. Open His Word and hear God speak to you of His forgiveness for all your sins, His peace that can calm a troubled heart, His salvation which is His gift to you through His Son, Your Savior, Jesus Christ. Read your Bible. Be ready to listen to the Lord. He speaks to you in every word of Scripture.

Your Personal Trainer

2012-02-02T13:51:00.000-08:00

Every runner - whether for sprinting or distance - has a personal trainer. The trainer's goal is to help the runner get into peak condition and run at top form. Every Christian has a personal trainer too. This trainer's goal is to help every disciple of Jesus run to win the race. Who is the trainer that is working with you? What is the race that you are involved in? Join us this Sunday at Life in Christ and find out. Worship at 8 and 10:45 am. Sunday school, Confirmation, High School and Adult Bible class at 9:15 am. Come and meet some of the nicest people on the west side of the Valley this Sunday morning!

Living a Life of Significance

2012-01-31T07:10:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of the year I made my one and only New Year's resolution, that before I worship or reading the Scriptures I pray: "Speak, O Lord, for your servant is listening." This morning I was reviewing a book I read last year - "The Calling - Live a Life of Significance," by Kurt Senske. On page 16, Senske wrote something that reaffirmed that my resolution is one worth pursuing:

God speaks His voice into our hearts at Baptism, and it echoes throughout life as we continue to hear Him as He speaks to us in His Word. This continual listening to God's Word in worship and at the Lord's Table enables us to grasp the calling of God that is uniquely ours. To be true to this calling is what it means to live a life of significance.

While I was not a huge fan of "The Purpose Driven Life," author Rick Warren tapped into a question that nearly all people ask - does my life really matter? Your life does matter! Turn to God's Word, listen to God's voice and that Word will point you toward the path of living a life of significance and meaning!

Satan's goal?

2012-01-27T07:12:00.000-08:00

Reading a great Old Testament survey book written by John Jeske, a WELS pastor and professor. I really appreciated this paragraph:

(Satan's goal) is to rob us of our thankfulness for God's good gifts. If it was within Satan's power, he wouldn't let us have a single piece of bread, not a single penny of income, not even a single hour of life. But since that's not in his power, he'll try to rob us of God's blessings by making us ungrateful and unappreciative of them.

Isn't that what Satan did to the Israelites? They had God's constant attention and protection, they received everything they needed and more from God's gracious hand, and still they grumbled and complained. God has done the same for you and me. If an ancient Israelite could be thrust into our world, the Israelite wouldn't believe it - we have so much! Yet, how often are we prone to grumble about the stuff we don't have or the stuff that someone else has?

Don't fall prey to the devil's evil schemes. Let this prayer be on your lips today: Oh give thanks to the Lord for He is good; His mercy endures forever! Amen.

Do You Believe In Miracles?

2012-01-26T08:46:00.000-08:00

Do you believe in miracles? The Gospels are full of them. There's Jesus turning water into wine...giving sight to the blind...commanding choppy seas to become calm. Non-believers doubt the miracles. Even some who call themselves Christians deny that Christ had the power to perform any of the miraculous things credited to Him. I've written a brief devotion on miracles I'll share during our "Hymn Sing" this Sunday at 8 and 10:45 am. Sunday school, Confirmation, High School and Adult Bible class at 9:15 am. Join us this Sunday at Life in Christ!

Praise the Lord!

2012-01-24T13:00:00.000-08:00

I've made a lot of the bold way Tim Tebow has used his status as Denver Broncos quarterback to give testimony of his faith and belief in Jesus Christ. But he's not the first athlete to have offered such a positive witness. I can still remember the scene as if it took place yesterday. The St. Louis Rams had just won the Super Bowl and Kurt Warner was being interviewed. The interviewer asked, "Kurt, tell us how you felt after throwing the game-winning touchdown with Issac Bruce?"

Warner responded, "The first thing I've got to do is to praise my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!"

In the same way, that's what the psalmist David does in Psalm 18.

The subscription to this psalm gives the reason for the writing of this song. David was hunted by His enemies with the same intensity that a rabid football fan might seek an extra ticket for the Super Bowl. King Saul, filled with jealously and rage, brought the power of the kingdom against David and his small group of followers. Each time God thwarted Saul's plans to destroy David. The evil king could never defeat David - the one whom God had chosen to lead His people.

David responded by writing a majestic song of praise to his Lord. He points to God's grace as the reason for his many escapes and triumphs. David takes no credit for outfoxing Saul. He does not boast of having a superior intelligence or battle tactics. He sings, "I love you, O Lord, my strength." To the very end of the psalm, David keeps pointing to the grace and mercy of God as the reason for his success.

Where has God surprised you with His grace? When did you experience His mercy in an extraordinary way? Was it when He sustained you through a difficult experience? Was it when He removed you from a painful situation? Read Psalm 18 this week. As you do so, think about the song of praise you could sing to the Lord. You already have the opening verse: I love You, O Lord, my strength!

The Greatest Distance in the World

2012-01-20T08:20:00.000-08:00

Read this great devotion this morning and wanted to share it with you.

What's the greatest distance in the world? Not the miles across the Atlantic or down to Antarctica, but the distance between the human head and heart. Those 18 inches are the most difficult in the world. Why? Because only God the Holy Spirit can travel them. Millions hear about Jesus Christ as their only Savior, but only some believe. The rest shake their heads in rejection or nod in seeming approval, only to go their own ways. Their ears have heard but not their hearts.

What about me? Can I say with my heart, "Jesus is my Savior whom God raised from the dead?" Can I say with conviction: "His death counted for me. His resurrection assures my resurrection. Because He lives, I also will live, body and soul, in heaven some day?" Then thank God the Holy Spirit. Through the gospel he carried the message from my head to my heart. My faith is His gift. Through that gospel He still works when my faith wavers to bridge the distance between head and heart.

The Spirit helps me travel another distance, the one between my heart and mouth. When Jesus has moved from my head to my heart, then he'll also move from my heart to my mouth. I'll proclaim gladly what I believe and thank Him for it. I'll tell others what I believe and ask them to join me. By God's grace it'll be head to heart to mouth, with the name of Jesus my precious Savior.

Richard E. Lauersdorf
"Together with Jesus - Daily Devotions for a Year"
Northwestern Publishing House

What Has Gotten Into Paul?

2012-01-19T12:50:00.000-08:00

Just listen to this Sunday's Epistle lesson: What I mean, brothers, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they had none; those who mourn, as if they did not; those who are happy, as if they were not; those who buy things, as if it were not theirs to keep; those who use the things of this world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away. 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 NIV.

So what is Paul getting at? Join us this Sunday at Life in Christ to find out. Worship at 8 and 10:45 am; Sunday school, Confirmation, High School and Adult Bible class at 9:15 am. Hope to see you this Sunday!

Tebowing!

2012-01-16T10:27:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday during my time with the kids, I talked to them about all the different ways the Bible talks about our posture during prayer. I asked them if they had ever heard of Tebowing - a few of them had! We talked about the Broncos quarterback, Tim Tebow and how he prays before, during and after the games he plays in. I shared with the kids how much I admire Tebow and how he is not ashamed of Jesus Christ and isn't afraid to show his love and faith in his Lord and Savior. We finished by praying by Tebowing. One of our members, Tom, took this picture off the video screen and my dear, sweet wife cropped it a bit. Thanks, Tom!

My 2012 New Year's Resolution

2012-01-16T09:28:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday during the sermon I shared with our congregation my 2012 New Year's Resolution. It was inspired by the Old Testament lesson - 1 Samuel 3:1-10. Samuel is being called by God to be a prophet. When Samuel finally learns that it it the voice of God that is continually waking him up during the middle of the night, he responds by saying, "Speak, your servant is listening."

I suggested that since God speaks to us today through His Word, the Bible, we might want to pray at every worship service, Bible study class, small group Bible study and during our personal devotional time, "Speak, O Lord, for your servant is listening." How pleased God will be to know that He has our undivided attention and that we are ready to hear His Word and put it into practice. (See Luke 11:28).

So how about it? Ready to make a New Year's Resolution worth keeping? Join me in praying, "I'm listening, Lord, I'm listening."

Are You Listening?

2012-01-13T08:06:00.000-08:00

1 Samuel 3 tells of how the Lord called the young man to be a prophet. After several false starts, Samuel recognized the Lord's voice and answered, "Speak, for your servant is listening." Could you make the same statement? We'll explore that question more this Sunday. Join us! Worship at 8 and 10:45 am with Sunday school, Confirmation, High School and Adult class at 9:15 am. See you this Sunday at Life in Christ!

Where do we find joy?

2012-01-12T14:21:00.000-08:00

Here's the secret: if we seek joy for its own sake, we will not find it. If we seek Jesus, we shall be engulfed and inundated by joy, and quite by surprise.

Matthew Harrison
"A Little Book on Joy"
page 9

Be Like Tim!

2012-01-09T13:13:00.000-08:00

Remember the Gatorade TV commercials from a few years ago. The overarching message was a simple one - be like Mike (as in Michael Jordan). I know the spots were effective - my young son, Eric, got the fever and wanted to be like Mike - make the game winning shot, dunk from the free throw line and, oh yeah, drink lots and lots of Gatorade.

Me? I'd rather be like Tim - Tim Tebow, that is.

Full disclosure - I jumped on the Tebow bandwagon years ago, specifically his junior year at Florida. He led his team to a national championship and won the Heisman Award for best college football player.

But I admired him much more for his confession of Christ Jesus as His Savior from sin and death.

He did not have the same success in his senior year of college. His pro career, not withstanding the past 10 weeks or so, has been full of ups and downs.

But he has not wavered in give praise and credit to God for the success he has had in life.,

I watched the post game coverage of the Broncos/Steelers game endlessly last night. Time and time again, Tebow gave thanksgiving for his relationship with his Lord and Savior.

I know lots of folks are put off by Tebow constantly invoking the name of the Lord. I find it refreshing.

Why shouldn't we as Christians give credit where credit is due? I don't hear Tebow implying that he is somehow better than most because he is a disciple of Jesus. I've never heard him say that the Broncos are God's team and that all the other NFL teams are second class.

That's what non-believers and opponents of the Christian faith want people to believe.

In Tebow I see a guy who genuinely loves His relationship with God through Christ and isn't ashamed to confess his faith. Reminds me of another guy who took a lot of flack for his faith in the Lord (see Romans 1:16).

I honestly didn't believe that the Broncos had a chance against the Steelers. I don't think they can beat New England on Tom Brady's home turf.

It won't matter one way or the other. I admire people who aren't afraid to tell others about Jesus Christ.

I want to be like Tim.

Have you got the right credentials?

2012-01-05T17:43:00.000-08:00

Mark begins his gospel with a bold statement - he is going to tell the good news about "Jesus Christ, the Son of God." Is this a story that can be believed? Does Jesus have the credentials to prove that He is God's Son? Come and learn Mark's approach to this question. Sunday at 8 and 10:45 am with Sunday school, Confirmation, High School and Adult Bible class at 9:15 am.

So far, so good...the 3650 Challenge

2012-01-04T12:13:00.000-08:00

First blog of 2012...I'm taking a week off after all the work involved in Advent and Christmas. How blessed we were to have our highest attendance ever for Christmas Eve. It was a joy to see our Sunday school do such a wonderful job of telling of the Savior's birth...to have the darkened church bathed in the candle light while singing Silent Night, to be reminded again of knowing that the gift of the Savior is "for you!" Thank you, Lord, for blessing our church family!

This down time has given me a chance to really sink my teeth into the 3650 Challenge - reading 10 chapters of Scripture every day per Prof. Grant Hanson's Bible reading system. It thought I had bitten off my than I could chew, so to speak. But so far, so good.

I like the mix of reading from both Old and New Testaments. As I read I note quick insights and observations in a journal. I'm using this material in the prayers I pray when I'm done reading. As you might expect, reading from both testaments help to see just how all Scripture complements each other. I also believe this system will help me do a better job of recalling important texts I want to refer to in sermon preparation, Bible study classes and the like. I'm finding that it take appx. 35-45 minutes to go through the 10 chapters. I know it's early but I think this system will be something I'll carry on through the year and beyond.

If you're not doing a regular Bible reading and devotion time, why not check out "Treasuring God's Word." Go back to the homepage and click on "READ..." in the left hand column. This year we're going to spend time reading and praying over some of the great stories of the Bible. See if Treasuring God's Word won't be of help to you.

In times of trouble, turn to the Psalms

2011-12-30T14:21:00.000-08:00

All of us have people in our lives that have influenced us or made a lasting impression on us in someway. Because of their faith in us or love they've shown to us, we consider such people our heroes. We look up to them. We admire the example they set for us. We want to be like them.

One of my heroes is Father Tim. I've never met him in person. In fact, he doesn't exist - except in the pages of the Mitford series of books written by Jan Karon.

Father Tim is the pastor of the Lord's Chapel in the fictional town of Mitford, North Carolina. Each of the Mitford books follows the life of the humble and devoted pastor as he cares for the people of his little community. I appreciate the fact that Father Tim knows what people need the most - the Word of God. And he uses the Psalms very effectively in his ministry.

For example, as Father Tim sought to minister to a young man who had been abandoned by his mother, he prayed Psalm 32:8b - "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you."

When searching for encouragement, Father Tim remembered Psalm 69:19 - "Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens."

To the individual near death, the first verse of Psalm 27 was Father Tim's prayer: "The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid?"

You can't spend enough time in the Psalms. Luther loved sitting down with his psalter. The comfort and hope he drew from the Psalms was good medicine for those stressful and dangerous days of the Reformation. I pray that you find verses and chapters from the Psalms that give you comfort in troubled times and peace when your heart is troubled.

My last sermon of the year

2011-12-29T13:25:00.000-08:00

is finished, whew! Depending on the kind of year you've had, you might need a pep talk to get you pumped up for 2012. Join us Saturday evening at 7 pm for worship at Life in Christ. The apostle Paul has got something to say that you need to hear. Be here!

Going All In with Professor Grant Horner

2011-12-28T15:39:00.000-08:00

Who is Grant Horner? I didn't know who he was until the other day when I was reading Tim Challies' blog. Horner is a fellow who has developed a Bible reading system that, when used faithfully, will lead you to read 3650 chapters of the Bible over the next year.

It's a pretty ambitious program. You read 10 chapters from the Bible every day. These chapters are taken from 10 lists that have been devised by Horner. I liked how he broke down the 10 lists. In a given day a person would read five chapters from the Old Testament and five from the New Testament. I like the balance such a schedule provides.

According to what I've read, reading the 10 chapters takes anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour a day. At first I wondered where I would find an extra hour in my day to do this kind of reading. The truth is that I have a least an hour that I can devote to this. I can do some reading in the morning during my devotion and prayer time; I can read more while eating my lunch (which I do most of the time in the office); and I can finish up by leaving the TV off and spending that time listening to the Lord.

I read the Bible every day. But usually it is in conjunction with preparing sermons, Bible classes, and other such tasks. I need to spend more time in God's Word for myself. I want the Lord's voice to be the loudest I hear as I live from day to day. His Holy Spirit works through means - like the Scriptures - to keep strengthening faith and forming us into faithful disciples. I want the Spirit to be doing this work in my life.

What are you doing for your Bible reading and devotion time? You can check out Horner's Bible reading system by going to www.challies.com and look for the blog entry for Dec. 27. Once you get there, read the articles and look for the tabs that will lead you to Horner's material. Jan. 1 is just a few days away. If you're going to make just one resolution for the New Year, resolve to spend more time in 2012 reading God's Word. It will be the best resolution you've ever made!

The Top Ten Reasons Why People Don't Go To Church

2011-12-27T12:26:00.000-08:00

Here we go...

10) "The glare from the pastor's forehead is too blinding!"
9) Three letters - NFL
8) "I don't have kids yet!"
7) "I have kids!"
6) "People that happy just give me the creeps!"
5) "I can worship God in the outdoors...with the roof open at the University of Phoenix Stadium!"
4) "I'm a good person and I want to avoid hearing otherwise!"
3) "They don't serve a good cappuccino during the coffee hour!"
2) "When I want to feel guilty I just call my parents!"

And the number one reason why people don't go to church is (drum roll...)

Because you haven't asked them to come with you and your family!

You can change that, however. Invite someone to come with you to the New Year's Eve service at LICL at 7 pm or on New Year's Day at 10 am. Tell you what we'll do - we'll powder the head of the pastor so that the glare isn't so bright:-)!

A Prayer for Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T14:41:00.000-08:00

Dear Jesus Child, I want to kneel by Your crib. I know I can never thank You enough. I know I can't give You anything that would sufficiently thank You for what you've done. But since You want to have everything that's evil in me, I will give You everything: my life and my heart, my past and my sins, my future and my eternity. I wouldn't dare to come to You if You hadn't come to me. But now You are here, and I know that it's for my sake. Therefore, I kneel here and thank You, Jesus Child, Prince of Peace, You who are called Wonderful Counselor and Mighty God. Amen.

Bo Giertz - "To Live With Christ" page 797, CPH

We'll have church today...and tomorrow

2011-12-24T09:11:00.000-08:00

While reading Gene Veith's excellent blog yesterday, he noted that the last time Christmas fell on a Sunday, many churches kept their doors closed. The logic was that Christmas is a family holiday and it would be better if families were able to stay home and enjoy their time together.

Is church really that much of an interruption or inconvenience for families? You mean to tell me that devoting an hour of worship to the God who gave us the gift of His one and only Son completely messes up Christmas day for families?

There is no better place for a family to gather - no matter what day of the week it falls on - than Christmas Day. What could be better for a family than to be in God's House, giving thanks and singing praises that Jesus Christ is born?! Church is the perfect place for parents and kids and grandparents and relatives and friends to be on Christmas morning. The presents and goodies and basketball and football games will wait. They won't disappear - trust me!

Tonight at 5 pm our Sunday school children will tell the Christmas story. I watched them practice and they will do a great job. At 8 pm and 11 pm (take your pick) you can join us for a candlelight service. It's goose bump time when the lights go down, the candles are lit and the church sings with one voice, "Silent Night, Holy Night."

Then on Christmas Day we'll have a worship service at 10 am. More great singing and special music is scheduled. Come and learn why the Babe born in Bethlehem treats us like a shepherd and why that is really good for us. It's Sunday, the day of the Lord's resurrection. We worship on Sunday. Don't treat this Sunday as something different.

God's very best to you and your family! See you tonight...and tomorrow!

One way to get rid of the garbage

2011-12-22T16:20:00.000-08:00

Have you heard this one...at Christmas, Tom went to visit his brother, Frank, who lived in New York City. After being dropped off at Frank's apartment, Tom was horrified to see garbage piled up on the sidewalks as far as a person could see. Frank explained that the city was in the midst of a long garbage strike. Tom asked, "What do you do with your garbage?" Frank replied, "I've come up with a very ingenious idea. I take the garbage bag out of the can each evening and wrap it up in Christmas paper so that it looks like a gift. I then take it downstairs and put it in the back seat of my car with the door unlocked. Every morning the car is empty."

How blessed we are that Jesus never goes on strike. He takes the garbage of our lives - the sins we commit each day - and removes it from us. Not by tricking someone to take it off our hands. He takes those things that would have separated us from our heavenly Father and buries it at the foot of the cross. And now our sin account is empty.

Because of the love of our Lord and Savior, we can really celebrate His birth. Join us at Life in Christ - Christmas Eve @ 5, 8, or 11 pm and on Christmas Day @ 10 am. Blessings!

One who knows how to give gifts

2011-12-21T08:27:00.000-08:00

Did you hear the story about the kid who wanted a bicycle for Christmas? All the other kids in the neighborhood had bikes so he wanted one too. The boy's mother, trying to be helpful, encouraged her son to pray to God about this request. So that's what he did. "Dear Jesus, could you see that I get a bicycle? That's all I want for Christmas. Amen."

Each night the boy prayed the same prayer. But the praying didn't seem to help. How could he be sure that God would give him the gift that he wanted most? Then the youngster got an idea.

When his mother wasn't looking, the boy snuck into the living room, found the little manger scene which was set up under the Christmas tree and put the statue of Mary in his pocket. He rushed to his room, closed the door, and knelt by his bed. He prayed, "Jesus, if you want to see your mother again, I'd better get that bike!"

This kid brings new meaning to the phrase, "Desperate times call for desperate measures!"

The good news for us is that God is without peer when it comes to gift-giving. His gift of the Christ-child is a prime example of how God gives to you and me.

He gives in love - For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son...John 3:16
He gives freely - It is by grace that you have been saved and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God...Ephesians 2:8
He gives perfectly - Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! 2 Corinthians 9:15

It seems like every Christmas there is always one gift that has to be returned - wrong size, wrong shape or wrong color. Praise God for His "one size fits all" gift of eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord! (Romans 6:23).

What good are idols for?

2011-12-19T09:58:00.000-08:00

Yes, American Idol is the most popular TV show in America. Have you noticed, though, how most of the winners have faded into the background? That how it is with things that we often idolize - we focus our hottest attention on them for a while but then something else comes along that is new, prettier, different or somehow offers something that we think will make our life better or more exciting. Working on a sermon for our Wednesday night service that takes various Hebrew words for "idol" and explains what they mean. Some interesting discoveries regarding just how worthless idols really are. Join us this Wednesday evening at 7 pm to learn more.

Something to think about...

2011-12-16T13:54:00.001-08:00

Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

The Greatest Story Ever

2011-12-15T11:27:00.000-08:00

Everyone likes a good story, right? Join us at Life in Christ this Sunday for the greatest story ever. Hear all about it at 8 and 10:45 am. Sunday school, Confirmation, High School and adult Bible class meets at 9:15 am.

Luther on the 8th Commandment

2011-12-14T07:10:00.000-08:00

For there is nothing on or in a person that can do both greater and more extensive good or harm in spiritual and in temporal matters than the tongue. This is true even though it is the least and weakest part of a person (James 3:5).

From the Large Catechism, 8th Commandment

Hilton Head's Calling Us Home?

2011-12-13T16:30:00.000-08:00

No, not quite. But my dear, sweet wife and I enjoyed a wonderful visit this past weekend with my former congregation as Island Lutheran Church of Hilton Head Island, SC celebrated their 25th Anniversary. We were treated like royalty by our hosts, Bart and Dorothy. They planned a little dinner party for us last Friday where we greeted 27 of our former church family. Saturday we poked around Harbor Town for a bit and had lunch for our dear friends, Ed and Lois. That evening we attended the 25th Anniversary Banquet - a fun evening. On Sunday I had the great honor of delivering the sermon; the theme was "One People - One Mission." During the service, 22 new members were received; of that number, 3 were baptisms and 5 were adult confirmations. It was truly a glorious service!

Sherri and I very much enjoyed meeting the new pastor, Larry, and his sweet wife, Kathy. Pastor Larry is the perfect shepherd for that congregation. Very personable and enthusiastic. We pray that God continues to richly bless his ministry there.

It was a wonderful visit but it wasn't until we landed back in Phoenix that we had the sense of coming home. Peoria is our home. It's the place where our kids and grand kids and our church family can be found. Be it every so humble, there is no place like home. Praise the Lord!

Making the Sign of the Cross

2011-12-08T13:50:00.000-08:00

We Lutheran make the sign of the cross. It's not mandatory. A person doesn't have to do so. But making the sign of the cross is a very good reminder of our baptism - our adoption into the family of God.

While researching a topic the other day, I came across something in the book, Lutheran Worship: History and Practice that I thought I'd share. The book references another book, Evangelical Lutheran Hymn-Book, written in 1912, which gives instructions to the pastor on making the sign of the cross. Read on...

The presiding minster will, therefore, position himself accordingly. The signing with the cross connected therewith is a personal signature, and it is appropriate that all join in this act as a remembrance of Holy Baptism and the call to repentance. Lutherans have commonly made this sign differently from Roman Catholics, specifically as to the direction of the last movement. With the palm of the right hand held flat with thumb and fingers together, first the forehead is touched ("My Lord Jesus Christ came down from heaven"), then the breast ("and was incarnate for me"), the right shoulder ("and was crucified for me"), and finally the left shoulder ("and entered into my heart"). Luther recommends the use of this sign in both the Small and the Large Catechism.

For some, making the sign of the cross seems a little awkward. You might even feel a little self-conscious about making the sign the first few times you do so. After a time, it is quite easy and becomes more and more meaningful. Anything we might do that reminds us of our baptism and the new life in Christ we have received through the washing of water with the Word, is a very good thing indeed.

Join the Resistance

2011-12-07T07:07:00.000-08:00

During last summer's European trip, I spent a week with pastors from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in England for a time of study. While there I got to know Rev. George Samiec, the editor of the British Lutheran magazine. He's put me on the mailing list so I can keep up with all the stuff going on in the ELCE. Turns out he is also acquainted with Dr. John Kleinig, a great theologian and author. Kleinig is recently retired from the Australian Lutheran College but is in great demand as a speaker, preacher and teacher. Kleinig has also written several books including a masterpiece, "Grace Upon Grace." Rev.
Samiec included an excerpt from "Grace Upon Grace" in the latest edition of the British Lutheran. Called "Joining the Resistance," here's what Kleinig had to write:

We resist the devil through our faithful attendance at the Divine Service.
We resist the evil foe in our daily devotions.
We resist the devil by trusting in the grace of God and living in it.
We resist the Satan by staying under the authority of Christ and His Word.
We resist the evil one by praying the Lord's Prayer and by using it as a pattern for our praying.
We resist the devil using the practice of intercessory prayer in the name of Jesus.

How about it...are you ready to join the resistance?

The Warm Up Act

2011-12-02T08:14:00.000-08:00

A thankless job - being the warm up act for a big star appearing in concert! John the Baptist can relate for sure. Find out more this Sunday at Life in Christ. Worship @ 8 and 10:45 am. Sunday school, Confirmation, High School and Adult Bible class at 9:20 am. Visit us and hear the great Gospel of Christ Jesus and meet some great people!

Are you walking in the darkness or the light?

2011-12-01T07:29:00.000-08:00

The apostle John has some thought provoking words for us in chapter two of his first letter: Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness. Whoever loves his brother lives in the light and there is nothing in him to make him stumble. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness; he does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded him.

Dinner and Worship - What could be better?

2011-11-30T05:21:00.000-08:00

Life in Christ tonight begins mid-weed Advent worship. We start with a meal and a good time of fellowship at 5:30 pm in the Ed. Building and then worship takes place at 7 pm. Throughout Advent, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day we're going to look at the first 11 verses of chapter 40 of Isaiah. The good news that the prophet proclaimed 2700 years ago still has much meaning for us followers of Christ today. Come and join us at Life in Christ!

The Sermon Machine

2011-11-29T11:12:00.000-08:00

At least that's what I feel like I need to be in the month of December. I have a sermon to write for tomorrow night (almost done), a sermon for Sunday (have an idea!) and a sermon I will be preaching for my former congregation's 25th anniversary. I was both surprised and humbled that they asked me to take on this assignment. I was there only 3 and a half years. But during that time my dear, sweet wife and I met some of the nicest people on earth in South Carolina. Many have remained friends to this day. And that is one of the benefits of being in the ministry - making lasting friends.

Something missing from my 2012 calendar

2011-11-25T14:00:00.000-08:00

Got my Pastor Desk Calendar in the mail a few weeks ago. All the usual special holidays are listed. But, as usual, one day was missing. Can you guess which one. Join us this Sunday at Life in Christ to find out. Worship at 8 and 10:45 am. Sunday school, Confirmation, High School and adult Bible class meet at 9:20 am. Check the "location" tab on the home page to find us. See you Sunday!

Why not pray?

2011-11-23T10:14:00.000-08:00

You're on the road when you have a flat tire and when you reach in the trunk for the jack you find that your teenager forgot to put it back?
You're running late for your child's soccer match when you become ensnared in a traffic jam?
You have a misunderstanding with an old friend who rebuffs your efforts to try and make things right?
What do you do in those situations? Get mad? Get even? Laugh? Cry? Give up and throw in the towel?

Why not pray?

When you're tempted to lose your head, why not pray and ask God to help you keep your head and find a solution to your problem.
When the traffic jam is enough to make your blood boil over, use the time to thank Jesus for the forgiveness and salvation that is yours because of His shed blood on the cross.
When you feel powerless to bring reconciliation between yourself and your friend or loved one, ask the Holy Spirit to work through the power of the Gospel so that your friendship might be restored.

The apostle James wrote: The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. Since this is true, let's ask our Heavenly Father to help us make prayer the first option instead of the last resort as we encounter these and other situations in our lives.

Let us pray!

God's Mercies Are New Every Morning

2011-11-22T12:26:00.000-08:00

I'm working today on the end of the year report that I'll give at our upcoming Voters Meeting. It's fun to look back and see God's handiwork in our midst. We kicked off the year with a special series focusing on the verses from Lamentations 3:22-23 - God's compassions never fail...they are new every morning! We were all encouraged to read our Bibles daily, to pray every day, to keep the 8th commandment in what we say about others, to sit aside our own agendas and pray "Thy Will Be Done," and to receive God's gifts with gratitude and praise. All of this led to the best Easter celebration we've ever had. The church gave my dear, sweet wife and I a wonderful sendoff as I began a three month renewal. The church spent the summer studying the topic of prayer and enjoyed a wonderful summer of music - soloists and musicians and a variety of concerts. When I returned in August, it was business as usual - preaching, teaching, leading, serving and praying. We wrap up the year with growth in membership, Sunday worship attendance, Sunday school and weekly Bible classes. We began several new ministries and saw groups like our Lutheran Women in Mission help extend our reach into our community and world. We also established a new mission statement: Live and Grow in Christ ~ Encourage and Reach Others. All in all, it has been a year full of blessings. And I should not be surprised by that - God's mercies are new every morning!

Do you tweet?

2011-11-21T16:26:00.000-08:00

You can find me on Twitter now and I think it's going to be lots of fun. Just getting started but if you're interested, check it out @GeorgeSpicer1.

Christ the King Sunday

2011-11-18T08:08:00.000-08:00

marks the last Sunday in the church year. Come and worship this Sunday and give praise to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Christ Jesus. Sermon theme: "The King Has Another Move." Worship at 8 and 10:45 am. Music provided by our outstanding Bell Choir. Sunday school at 9:15 am with Confirmation, High School Youth and Adult Bible classes at 9:20 am. Come live and grow with Christ with us at Life in Christ!

Prayer is...

2011-11-17T11:11:00.000-08:00

Dr. Joe White, in his fine book "Life Training 2" wrote about an elementary school teacher who gave her students an interesting assignment. She read to her students a number of old sayings that you and I would probably recognize. But the teacher would stop reading just before the conclusion of the phrase. The job of the students was to complete the phrase themselves. How do you think the kids did?

"Better be safe than...punch a fifth-grader."
"You can't teach an old dog...new math."
"A penny saved is...not much."
"Children should be seen and not...spanked or grounded."

Here's one for you to try: Prayer is...

How would you complete that phrase. How about:
Prayer is...powerful! The apostle James writes, The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. For examples of God's people praying with power see Acts 16:25-26, 1 Kings 17:21-22 & Acts 4:23-31.
Prayer is...coming into God's presence. Just think, each time we go to that quiet place in our homes or drive up the road to work or stop in the midst of a busy day, God will give us His undivided attention as we call to Him in prayer. It's no wonder that the writer to the Hebrews encouraged his readers to approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need (4:16).

So, how would complete the phrase, "Prayer is..." Think about it!

Books on the nightstand

2011-11-16T09:23:00.000-08:00

I never seem to be reading only one book at a time. Often I'll be reading two or three, grabbing the one that piques my interest at that moment. But right now I've got six books going. They are:

Concordia, the Lutheran Confessions - Solid Declaration
As Luther Taught the Word of Truth - Richard Lauersdorf
Washingon, A Life - Ron Chernow
Gabby - Gabrielle Giffords & Mark Kelly
Obama's Wars - Bob Woodward
Luther's Large Catechism

Last year I think I read nearly 50 books so I'm interested to see what my total is for 2011. Not trying to brag - I just love to read!

Look up the word "courage"

2011-11-15T07:51:00.000-08:00

in the dictionary and you'll see a picture of Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. My dear, sweet wife and I sat in awe as we watched the story of her recovery and her interview. My leg and back issues are very small in comparison to what Giffords suffered. Her perseverance is an inspiration.

Without Any Instructions

2011-11-11T13:54:00.000-08:00

You never give a job to a person without givng them some instructions, right? And yet, that is the very thing that is missing from the Parable of the Talents, this week's Gospel lesson. Why does the Master not leave instructions for his three servants? Come this Sunday to Life in Christ and find out. Worship is at 8 am and 10:45 am, Sunday school, Confirmation, High School and Adult Bible classes are held at 9:20 am. Join us at Life in Christ!

God's Service Station

2011-11-08T15:17:00.000-08:00

A while back in "Christian Reader" magazine, Jim Corley wrote about a conversation he had with a friend named Alex who attends Corley's church. Meeting at an automobile dealership, Alex got right to the point.

"Jim," said Alex, "I feel like a hypocrite every time I go to church because I fail to live for Christ so often."

"Alex, what do you call this part of the dealership?" Corley asked, nodding to the area outside his cubicle. "You mean the showroom?" Corley answered, "That's right. And what's behind the showroom, past the parts counter?" Alex answered confidently, "The service department!"

Corley then asked, "What if I told you I didn't want to bring my car to the service department because the car was running rough?" Alex quickly answered, "That would be crazy! That's the whole point of the service department - to fix cars that aren't running right."

Corley responded, "You're absolutely right. Now let's get back to our initial conversation. Instead of thinking of church as a showroom where image is everything, start thinking of it as God's service department. Helping people get back in running order with God is what the church is all about."

What can keep our relationship with God and others from running smoothly? In a word - sin. So when you come to church on Sunday, you are stepping into God's service station! In worship, God serves you and the very first thing He does is to hear your confession of sin and to speak His Words of absolution and forgiveness. God forgives that sin that separates us from Him and empowers us to practice this same confession and forgiveness with those whom we have hurt or have been hurt by. Be faithful in Sunday morning church attendance. Come and let God serve you!

See "The Mighty Macs" while you can!

2011-11-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

I run into folks all the time who lament that there are no clean and wholesome films to which they can take their families. Let me recommend to you, "The Mighty Macs." The film tells the story about the girls basketball team at tiny Immaculata College and how they overcame trials and challenges to be invited to the first National Basketball Championship for women. The story is both captivating and inspiring.

Unfortunately, this is not a big Hollywood release with a huge promotional budget. "The Mighty Macs" is showing in only three theatres in the entire Valley of the Sun! My dear, sweet wife and I saw it last night at a theatre in Goodyear. It was the two of us and a family of five who came late and left early - not because they didn't like the film but because their three small children got antsy and wanted to go home.

I learned that this film has been in the can for a couple of years. The director, as I understand it, had a distribution deal with Disney. This film would have been perfect for them but Disney wanted some curse words added to the script so that the movie would have a PG rating. The director would not bend to their wishes and it took him a couple more years before he could find a distributor who would make the film available with a G rating.

"The Mighty Macs" is well acted and produced. If you enjoy inspirational films like "Hoosiers" and "Rocky," you will love "The Mighty Macs." There is no gratuitous cursing, sex or violence. It is a movie you can take your entire family to. Support this movie while you have the chance. It probably won't be around for much longer. On the west side of the Valley you can see the film at Palm Valley Cinema 14, 1325 N. Litchfield Road in Goodyear. Do check it out...and soon!

For All the Saints!

2011-11-04T10:07:00.000-07:00

This Sunday is All Saints Sunday, that time in the church year when the church commemorates the martyrs of the church and all the people of God, both living and dead. The First Reading of the Day in Revelation, chapter seven speaks of something that we have plenty of here on earth but will be totally missing in heaven. Join us for a special Sunday. Worship is at 8 am and 10:45 am with Sunday school, Confirmation and Adult Bible class at 9:20 am. Come worship the Lord and meet the great people that make up Life in Christ!

Keep praying, "someone!"

2011-11-03T13:55:00.000-07:00

When the Lamb opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half-an-hour. And I saw the seven angels who stand before God and to whom were given seven trumpets. Another angel came and stood at the altar, holding a golden pan for incense. He was given much incense to offer with the prayers of all God's holy people. The angel put this offering on the golden altar before the throne. The smoke from the incense went up from the angel's hand to God with the prayers of God's holy people. (Revelation 8:1-4/Contemporary English Version Bible)

This is what author Max Lucado writes regarding the above scene: "Every song ceased. Every being of the heavenly city hushed. The noise stopped. A sudden stillness fell like a curtain. Why? Why did the Lamb lift His hand for silence? Why did the silver-trumpet voices hush? Because someone was praying! Heaven paused...and Heaven pauses to hear the prayers of...someone. A mother for her child. A pastor for a church. A doctor for the diseased. A counselor for the confused..."

Think about it - you are...someone! I am someone! When we pray, heaven hears. When we offer our petitions, God takes note. Our prayers do not vanish into thin air but are like the sweet smell of incense before the Divine. When someone prays God gives His undivided attention. He does not file our requests under "rainy day reading." He receives our prayer requests and He returns His answers. Sometimes His answers are "earth shattering." (See Revelation 8:5). Sometimes they come and we're not even aware until days, weeks or months later. But God always listens and answers when "someone" prays.

Keep praying, "someone!"

A Confident Faith

2011-11-01T11:17:00.000-07:00

As I was doing some devotional reading yesterday, I was struck by these words from the Apostle Peter: Though you have not seen Him (the Lord), you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:8-9.

How is it that Peter can write with such confidence? How is it that he can be so sure that his readers are filled with such a trusting faith in Jesus?

The explanation to the Third Article of the Apostles' Creed in Luther's Small Catechism remind us that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith.

The Holy Spirit works faith in our hearts and gives us the saving knowledge of Jesus as Lord and Savior. With this faith we can trust Jesus for forgiveness and salvation, rejoice in our new life of faith and find comfort in our Lord in all the seasons of our lives. With the help of the Spirit, we believe in our Savior even though we do not see Him!

The psalmist Asaph speaks to this same kind of faith. In Psalm 77, Asaph complains about the difficulties of life. He has suffered so much and, without any relief, is beginning to wonder if God has forgotten about him.

But then Asaph begins to meditate on God's Word. He remembers God's mighty deeds. He recalls God's gracious help and deliverance when the people were freed from bondage. He writes in 77:19 - Your path led through the sea, Your way through the mighty waters, though Your footprints were not seen.

Faith enables us to know that God is with us even when our eyes can't see Him. His Word assures us that God will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). This week offer thanks to the Holy Spirit who empowers you to know and trust Almighty God even when you can't see Him. God is with you!

Go Crazy, Folks, Go Crazy!

2011-10-28T21:11:00.000-07:00

That is, if you're a St. Louis Cardinals fan! 10 1/2 games out of first place on August 25, the Cardinals just completed an improbable run by winning the World Series tonight over the Texas Rangers. What a run! Having lived in St. Louis for about 14 years, it's easy to become infected with Cardinals fever. In August I didn't think they had a chance of making the playoffs. Now, they're world champions! Excuse me now...I'm going to go crazy!

What to do when under stress

2011-10-27T09:25:00.000-07:00

1) Take a deep breath

2) Say a prayer

3) Focus on serving someone at that very moment

"The Calling" by Kurt Senske, page 23

Argue or Contend?

2011-10-25T08:59:00.000-07:00

A number of years ago the Chicago Tribune ran a story about London, England couple who had more than their fair share of arguments. One argument turned violent. The wife got so mad at her husband she got in their car and ran over him. The husband suffered 45 leg fractures and a skull fracture and spent five months in the hospital. His wife was thrown in jail for grievous bodily harm.

Then the husband did something that shocked everyone - he forgave his wife and asked the court to set her free. The man, now wheelchair bound, told the court, "I can't live without her." In response to her request, the court suspended her sentence and set her free.

Sometime later, a London newspaper did a follow-up story on the couple. The husband reported, "We are back together and happy. But my wife is very argumentative."

In this post-Christian world of ours, it seems that everyone has an opinion about religion or Christianity or about God or Jesus. Maybe you know an opinionated neighbor. Perhaps your cohort at work holds to some pretty strong views. You might even have an acquaintance who likes to create controversy by challenging teachings and beliefs that the Christian church has held for centuries.

As Christians, we must contend for the faith. But we are to avoid those who simply want to argue for the sake of arguing (see 2 Timothy 2:22-26). Instead, the Christian tries to treat everyone with kindness while looking for opportunities to teach the truth of God's Word to those who seek answers to the important questions of life - Who is God? Where is salvation found? What does God think of me? How can I be sure I am going to heaven? As we witness and teach God's Word to those who sincerely want to know the truth, we trust the Holy Spirit to lead our hearers to repentance and faith in Christ. Such gentle instruction is much more effective than running over a person with a car!

Love in Action - tip #1

2011-10-21T09:09:00.000-07:00

One person wisely said, "If you cannot speak to a person about God, speak to God about that person."

Robert J. Koester, in his book, "Gospel Motivation," page 132.

God Speaks to Us

2011-10-19T15:50:00.000-07:00

That's the good word that the writer to the Hebrews shares with us at the beginning of that New Testament letter. But what does God have to say? And is there anything we can say in return? Join us this Sunday and find out. Worship at 8 and 10:45 am with Bible study, Confirmation and Sunday school at 9:20 am. Come and meet the great people of Life in Christ!

Life. In Christ.

2011-10-17T17:09:00.000-07:00

Life is a form of insurance...a type of soap...a magazine. But is that all it is?

Life is clothes, cars and lots of spending money...good grades, a starting position on the team and the lead role in the play...popularly and friends...things to do and places to go.

And yet, Jesus teaches: Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. (Matt. 6:19)

Life is also the teenager who struggles in conflict with parents...the convenience store worker bored with the job...a husband, wife or parent who no longer finds joy in the vocation...the chronically ill who slide into depression and despair.

That's life?

Jesus said, I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in Me will never die. (John 11:25-26)

That's Life. In Christ. I am the way and the truth and the life. (John 14:6)

But what about the things I need? Do not worry, saying, "What shall we eat?" or "What shall we drink?" or "What shall we wear?" Your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (Matt. 6:31-33)

But what about loneliness? I will never leave you or forsake you. (Joshua 1:5)

But what about temptation? Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Gal. 5:24)

But what about the things I worry about? Cast all your care on Jesus, for He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)

But what about all the ways I've messed up? If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just, and forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

But what about death? Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me. (Psalm 23:4)

So, in Christ, we have life? Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent. (John 17:3)

That's life. LIFE. IN CHRIST!

See "Courageous!" Be Courageous!

2011-10-15T10:23:00.000-07:00

Last night my dear, sweet wife and I went to the movie theater to see the new film, "Courageous." It was produced by the same fellows, Stephen and Alex Kendrick, who also wrote, directed and performed in "Fireproof," "Facing the Giants," and "Flywheel." The two brothers are gifted and talented men who do a splendid job of bringing some of the important issues of our culture to the screen while doing so from a Christian perspective.

"Courageous" is a clarion call to fathers to be real fathers. The story revolves around five fathers who are compelled to take this important life role seriously. Some of the situations the fathers face are resolved as you would think they would. However, there are several twists and turns in the plot that I didn't see coming. There is also plenty of humor, including one scene involving the real identity of "Javier." It was really funny and well done.

From my perspective, I wish there were more Gospel, more Jesus in the film. Lots of talk about God. But very little about Jesus. It is through faith in Jesus and the encouragement the Lord gives in His Holy Word that truly motivates us to want to be real fathers to the glory and praise of God. On the other hand, it is clear in the film that the motivation for these men to be courageous fathers came from study in God's Word. Maybe it was assumed that the love of Jesus for us motivates us to want to be better fathers, mothers, husband, wives, employers, employees and so forth. Still, I wish that Jesus would have been more front and center in the film.

In spite of that, the Kendrick brothers have done a real service for followers of Christ. They have produced an exciting, engaging film with a message we need to hear and they did it without excessive violence, gratuitous sex or foul language. If you are a father, see "Courageous." If you are a grandfather, take your son or son in law and see "Courageous." And then, with the help of Jesus and to the glory of God, be a courageous father.

Luther on the First Commandment

2011-10-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

So you can easily understand what and how much this commandment requires. A person's entire heart and all his confidence must be placed in God alone and no one else. For to "have God," you can easily see, is not to take hold of Him with our hands or to put Him in a bag like money or to lock Him in a chest like silver vessels. Instead to "have" Him means that the heart takes hold of Him and clings to Him. To cling to Him with the heart is nothing else than to trust in Him entirely.

The Large Catechism, 13-15

Encourage and Reach Others!

2011-10-13T14:40:00.000-07:00

What was the purpose of the Apostle Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians? What does it have to do with our new mission statement? Join us this Sunday at Life in Christ to find out. Worship is at 8 and 10:45 am. Coffee fellowship on the patio at 9 am. Sunday school and High School and Confirmation classes at 9:20 am. We'd love to meet you!

Luther says read the Catechism!

2011-10-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

If these reasons were not enough to move us to read the catechism daily, we should feel bound well enough by God's command alone. He solemnly commands in Deuteronomy 6:6-8 that we should always meditate on His precepts, sitting, walking, standing, lying down, and rising. We should have them before our eyes and in our hands as a constant mark and sign. Clearly He did not solemnly require and command this without a purpose. For He knows our danger and need, as well as the constant and furious assaults and temptations of devils. He wants to warn, equip and preserve us against them, as with a good armor against their fiery darts (Ephesians 6:10-17) and with good medicine against their evil infection and temptations.

The LICL Song

2011-10-10T08:14:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday at our Oktoberfest, I was asked to sing a song I wrote for a talent show from a few years back. The tune is the ever-popular "YMCA." I wrote new lyrics and turned it into "LICL." As the lyrics prove, I'm not much of a songwriter. But it was fun to perform the song with Connie and Dan.

Lutheran, it is time to rejoice, I said, Lutheran, won't you hear His strong voice
I said, Lutheran, you can come to this place, You will find good friends who love you.

Lutheran, just don't waste any time, I said, Lutheran, it is peace you will find
I said, Lutheran, settle in - you will see, You're a big part of our family.

It's great to worship at LICL, It's great to worship at LICL
There's a place for you here, There is nothing to fear, Dick M. is just one of the kids
It's great to worship at LICL, It's great to worship at LICL
The fellowship is fine, 9 am is the time, Come and eat all the donuts you want!

Sunday, bring your Bible along, And then, Monday, faith will surely stay strong
And then, Tuesday, if you suffer some wrong, You can turn it over to God.

Wednesday, you take time out to pray, And then, Thursday, you trust God more each day
And then, Friday, it's your last working day, Saturday then leads to Sunday.

It's great to worship at LICL, It's great to worship at LICL
Come and hear the good news, God will help with your blues, You'll be leaving with a smile on your face
It's great to worship at LICL, It's great to worship at LICL
Sing a great song of praise, joyful voices we raise, Pastor Spicer's guitar is out of tune!

Small groups, join with people who care, How about choir, singing songs like a prayer
How about bells, watch them play with great flair, People giving God the glory

Work days, keeping everything clean, And there's youth group, it's a place for our teens
And there's children, Sunday school - what a scene, Lutheran Women in Mission.

You crazy Lutheran sing LICL, You crazy Lutherans sing LICL
Yes, we love to eat, fellowship is a treat, Colleen D's chocolate cake is the best!
You crazy Lutherans sing LICL, You crazy Lutherans sing LICL
Hope you liked this big show, But we want you to know, Bill R. has got all of the dough!

L...I...C...L!
L...I...C...L!!

There Is Joy in Mudville!

2011-10-05T07:33:00.000-07:00

and in Mesa and Gilbert and Glendale and Peoria and throughout the Valley of the Sun. Our D-Backs, led by two players without any playoff experience pitched and hit Arizona into a big victory over the Brewers last night. Alas, it's only one game and the Brewers still have the edge. But hope spring eternal! Here's hoping for another big D-Backs victory!

The Joyous Exchange

2011-10-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

"Jesus is the greatest of sinners. There is no greater sinner in the entire human race than the Son of God. This is so true that He is called sin itself (God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God - 2 Corinthians 5:21). His sin is ours. It was foreign to Him. He had none. He committed none. It was made His own because of the love wherewith He loved us. He bore it, and because of it He suffered as though He had committed it Himself, although He was entirely innocent and spotless. He was the Lamb foreseen from the beginning of the world, the woman's Seed promised to our first parents, Adam and Eve, immediately after their fall." Martin Luther

Luther often described 2 Corinthians 5:21 with these words, "The Joyous Exchange." While we can't imagine the pain and suffering Christ endured at the cross to be joyful in any way, still, the writer to the Hebrews put it like this: "Jesus...who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame..." (Hebrews 12:2). And in becoming "sin for us" we received in exchange the righteousness of God. This "glorious dress" (see verse one of the hymn, "Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness") makes us acceptable before our Heavenly Father. In many ways, this is a one-sided exchange. Jesus receives our punishment for the sins we've committed; we receive the perfect holiness and righteousness of Jesus which we need but do not deserve. God's grace is truly amazing, isn't it? Now you know why Luther called it, "The Joyous Exchange!"

I'm Excited

2011-10-01T10:25:00.000-07:00

From the October newsletter

In my former congregation I used to do a little chapel service for our Preschool children each week. I really had fun playing my guitar and teaching songs to our three and four year old boys and girls.

One of the songs they really enjoyed was entitled "I'm Excited." It went like this:
I'm excited, I'm excited, I'm excited in the Lord
When you're walking with the Lord, you don't get bored
When you're following the Son, you have more fun
When you're working with the King, you really want to sing
I'm excited!

Behind this little children's song is a very powerful truth - it is exciting to serve the Lord!

Our new life in Christ isn't boring. When you take seriously Jesus' admonition to "love one another," the Lord brings you in touch with all kinds of people with all kinds of needs. You might find yourself doing things you never thought you could do...like helping feed the homeless, praying with a friend in the hospital or serving as a volunteer at a community event. Following Jesus is fun. The more you read and study and apply His Word to your life, the stronger your faith becomes and you draw closer and closer to the Lord. On top of that, Jesus invites us to work in His kingdom, reaching others with the good news of His salvation to our community and world.

I'm excited about all that God is doing at Life in Christ. Guests each Sunday tell me they sense the joy that our congregation has in worshipping and serving the Lord and one another. As we move into the Fall season, may the Lord continue to make Life in Christ an exciting place to be!

Good Words for a Thursday

2011-09-29T16:00:00.000-07:00

"Never, ever, ever stop pursuing an intimate relationship with God, your spouse and your children."

Josh McDowell

A Man Called Peter

2011-09-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

In my opinion, Peter Marshall, the Scottish-born Presbyterian pastor, who in 1947 became chaplain of the US Senate, was one of the finest preachers of the 20th century. See the book, "A Man Called Peter" for examples of his inspiring and thought-provoking style. He also wrote many wonderful and heart-felt prayers. The following is a prayer of confession that you might want to use in your devotions this week.

O Lord, I come to You out of my great need. You have pledged in Your Word that whoever comes to You shall not be cast away.

Lord, I confess before you that I have had longings and nudgings from You which I did not translate into action.

I have made decisions without consulting You, then blamed You when things went wrong.

I have said that I trusted You, yet have not turned my affairs over to You.

I have often sought the easy way, have consistently drawn back from the road that is hard.

Forgive me for all the intentions that were born and somehow never lived.

These, Lord Jesus, are sins, grievous in Your sight, grievous even in mine. And now I claim Your promise to change me. Do for me what I cannot do for myself. Lead me into a new tomorrow with a new spirit. Cleanse my heart, create within me new attitudes and new ideas, as only You can create them.

For these good gifts, I thank You Lord. Amen.

Love Is...

2011-09-26T06:52:00.000-07:00

Down through the ages, many people have tried to define "love."

"Love conquers all" Virgil
"Love is the only gold" Alfred Lord Tennyson
"Who loves believes the impossible" Elizabeth Barrett Browning
"The first duty of love is to listen" Paul Tillich
"Faults are thick where love is thin" An old English proverb
"Love is a great beautifier" Louisa May Alcott

Then we we 1 Corinthians 13, what some Christians commonly call "the love chapter" of the Bible. Since love seems to be indefinable, the Apostle Paul describes how love manifests itself. When directed toward others - spouse, children, family, friends and strangers, love is forgiving and self-giving. No doubt, as Paul was describing the fruits of love, he surely had Christ Jesus in mind. Through faith in Jesus, you have been "caught up" in the love of Christ. Read 1 Corinthians 13 today and then look for those with whom you can share Jesus' love this week!

Walk the Walk, Talk the Talk

2011-09-23T08:19:00.000-07:00

The fellow looked me in the eye and said, "George, it's obvious that you can talk the talk. But can you walk the walk?" In the Gospel lesson for this Sunday, we discover a couple of boys who had trouble with the concept. Maybe you do as well. Join us for worship and learn more. Services are at 8 am and 10:45 am. Christian LIFE Hour at 9:20 am. Hope to see you this Sunday at Life in Christ!

The Difference Between Darkness and Light

2011-09-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

Darkness is not knowing God and, even worse, not realizing that you are living for Satan. Darkness is confusion over goodness and evil; it is not really understanding that true goodness can only be inspired by God's grace. Darkness is looking at death with a big question mark or, more honestly, in complete fear. Light is the opposite. A person who stands in the light of Jesus and His revelation of God the Father knows God, flees the devil, loves good, hates evil. He know that he can face death, for in Christ he has already died and risen again, and that his death is but a continuation of the life he now has but far greater.

from "Gospel Motivation" by Robert J. Koester, Northwestern Publishing House, page 113.

I love Board Meetings!

2011-09-22T10:19:00.000-07:00

Not many pastors are willing to make that statement. But it is such a pleasure to work with our Board of Ministry Directors that I look forward to our monthly meetings. We are blessed with an outstanding leader in Dan, our chairman and he, in turn, is blessed to work with a group of committed and faithful men and women who want to serve the Lord and His church. Praise the Lord for the joy of working with folks who aren't pursuing their own agendas and instead want to do what's best for the Lord's church!

Luther Says!

2011-09-21T07:58:00.000-07:00

"I will give myself as a part of Christ to my neighbor as Christ gave Himself for me."

From "On the Freedom of the Common Man."

To whom can you show the love of Jesus Christ today?

Do it all for the glory of God!

2011-09-20T09:44:00.000-07:00

The pastor arrived for the 7 am Men's Breakfast Bible study a few minutes late. The guys gathered around the table at the local Denny's Restaurant sipped their coffee and carried on their conversation while only briefly acknowledging their pastor. But one fellow looked the pastor over carefully. He noticed the bags under the pastor's eyes and the look of exhaustion on his face. He asked, "Hey, are you alright?" The pastor shook his head and said, "We'll talk later."

After the Bible study broke up, the pastor and fellow found a corner booth. The pastor said, "I shouldn't be talking to you but since you asked..." For the next half hour the pastor explained that he hadn't slept more than a couple of hours each night. Some concerns for the flock he was shepherding was causing sleepless nights. Finances were not covering the budget. Petty disputes threatened to tear the church council apart. The "grapevine" was filled with gossip and half-truths. The pastor was doing his best to apply God's Word and instruction to each situation. But disobedient church members weren't showing much growth in the way of repentance and faith in God their Savior.

We don't know whether the church at Corinth was causing sleepless nights for the apostle Paul. But we do know that many in the church were immature in the faith and said and did many nonspiritual things. Because of Paul's concern for this particular park of God's flock, chapters seven through twelve of 1st Corinthians contain needed instruction and guidance. Paul writes pointedly; his desire is to bring about repentance and faith among the disobedient in Corinth.

Read these chapters this week. Note that Paul addresses issues which seem to stand front and center in the church today. Watch how Paul continually points to God's grace in Christ as the motivation for setting aside our own wisdom and desires and, instead, seeking to live each day as God's forgiven people, dearly loved in the Lord.

Sunday is for Celebration!

2011-09-19T06:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, we celebrated yesterday at Life in Christ...Evan's baptism into the kingdom of God...14 more members becoming a part of our church family...Jack and Helen's 70th wedding anniversary. O give thanks unto the Lord for He is good, for His mercy endures forever!

A Wonderful Collect for the Week

2011-09-18T07:12:00.001-07:00

Grant that I, Lord, may not be anxious about earthly things, but love things heavenly; and even now, while I am placed among things that are passing away, hold fast to those that shall endure; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

from "The Divine Hours - Prayers for Summertime" by Phyllis Tickle, page 564.

God's Approval Rating

2011-09-15T12:27:00.000-07:00

Did you know that God now has an approval rating? That's right! Pollsters now rate God's performance just like they do the President or Governor or any other public servant. Does that make sense? Can a person rate God's performance. Come and learn the answer this Sunday at Life in Christ. Worship takes place at 8 and 10:45 am. Bible class for every age begin at 9:20 am. Come meet the nicest people in town!

Cohabitation is not equal

2011-09-14T09:54:00.000-07:00

I read a really informative article in the Sept. 2011 edition of "Christianity Today" that really reinforced something that I share with couples with whom I do premarital counseling - living together before marriage is hazardous to your marriage.

Glenn Stanton has written a book, "The Ring Makes All the Difference: The Hidden Consequences of Cohabitation and the Strong Benefits of Marriage." Research has shown that there is a definite downside to couples living together before marriage. Among the things I learned from the article is that, according to Stanton, "Marriage is actually a very pro-woman institution. People don't fully realize what a raw deal for women cohabitation is. Women tend to bring more goods to the relationship - more work, more effort in tending to the relationship - but they get less satisfaction in terms of relational commitment and security."

Those who live together first often say that they want to make sure they are compatible as a couple so that they can make a lasting commitment to each other. But just the opposite occurs. Stanton says, "Scientists find that cohabitation cuts down on commitment. The message of living together is, 'I'd really only like to take a part of you. And maybe some time later I'd like to take all of you'."

And then there was this shocking statement from Stanton: "Cohabiting men who go on to marry are significantly less committed to the marriage itself than men who don't cohabit." Stanton goes on to add, "Again, that's not a preacher's line or a moralizer's line. That's a scientific line."

Cohabitation doesn't at all sound like what God had in mind in Genesis 2:24-25: "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and will become one flesh. The man and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame." These words indicate something far different that what most couples do when the simply move in together.

The truth is that relationships take time. That's why a good, meaningful courtship leading up to marriage is still the best way. A foundation is laid by both people upon which a loving relationship with real intimacy can be constructed. It is a shame that our society and too many people who call themselves Christians have bought into the lie of the devil and settle for less in relationships that God wants for us all.

Jesus Saves!

2011-09-13T12:37:00.000-07:00

For those of you who haven't heard this one yet...there must be one or two of you, right?

Jesus and Satan have an argument as to who is the better computer programmer. Their argument goes on for a few hours until they agree to hold a contest with God as the judge. They turn on their computers and begin. They type furiously for several hours, lines of code streaming across their screens. Seconds before the end of the competition, a bolt of lightening strikes, taking out the power. Moments later, power is restored and God announces that the contest is over.

God asks Satan to show his work. Satan becomes visibly upset and cries, "I have nothing! I lost it when all the power went out." God says, "Very well, then, let us see if Jesus fared any better."

Jesus enters a command and the screen comes to life in vivid display, the voices of an angelic choir pour forth from the speakers. Satan is astonished. He stutters, "But...but...but how? I lost everything yet Jesus' program is intact! How did He do it?"

God chuckled. "It's easy...Jesus saves!"

Don't groan too loudly - you might disturb the others around you!

Still - it's true! Jesus saves! And because this message is true, you and I who believe have everything!

Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12

Since we have been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through Him! Romans 5:9

So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people, and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him. Romans 9:28

It's no joke, is it? JESUS SAVES!

A Wonderful Day of Worship

2011-09-12T07:33:00.000-07:00

One of our largest crowds of the year...the Word of God to comfort and assure us...the Lord's Supper to strengthen and encourage us...Nicole sang and Connie played to perfection...Pat, Dan and Jon gave us goose-bumps as they played...God's love and warmth was felt throughtout the congregation...Praise You, Jesus, for Your loving kindness and tender mercies!

Sept. 11, 2001

2011-09-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

This Sunday marks the 10th anniversary of the day that America was attacked on its very own soil. It was a day of amazement, anger and death. Where does a Christian turn when fear and terror strikes. Join us this Sunday at Life in Christ and find out. Worship at 8 am and 10:45 am. Christian LIFE hour for disciples of all ages begins at 9:20 am. Join us!

A Good Word from God's Word

2011-09-08T11:49:00.000-07:00

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Psalm 27:1 (NKJV)

I Can Overcome

2011-09-07T13:19:00.000-07:00

I would love to look at my troubles as thought I were in an airplane. At 35 thousand feet, even the mighty Rocky Mountains don't look so tough...Alas, in my life, I am not flying over my troubles. I bump into every one because I am not traveling though my life in a plane. I'm walking next to my oxen and my covered wagon. But here is God's promise to me (and to you): "Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you and you shall glorify me" (Psalm 50:15).

Crossing the great American prairie was a lengthy ordeal, not a stroll. Your life is a long haul, too, and God loves you so much that he allows hardships to toughen you for the trials of the journey. But you will make it because your God is with you. Call on Him. Expect deliverance. Honor Him when it comes.

Mark Jeske, "Time of Grace," page 266, published by Concordia Publishing House

Child of God or child of Satan?

2011-09-06T09:28:00.000-07:00

"If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit," Jesus declares (John 15:5). When our Heavenly Gardener plants faith in our hearts, He expects that faith to blossom. Indeed, it's the very nature of faith to do and with increasing frequency. Jesus the vine didn't say, "I hope you bear fruit" or "You must bear fruit." He simply said, "You will bear fruit" and even added the word much. How can children of God still live like children of the devil? How can those who revel in Christ's love react in hate toward those around them? How can those who are made in God's unselfish image still measure thoughts, words and deeds with the tiny yardstick of personal selfishness? (underline mine) Though this side of heaven the best of our blossoms still exhibit sin's blight, they grow. When James declares that "faith without works is dead," he's reminding us that "no roses means it's not a rose bush." (James 2:26)

Richard E. Lauersdorf
"As Luther Taught the Word of Truth - Devotions on the Small Catechism"
pages 78-79

What a great weekend!

2011-09-05T22:13:00.000-07:00

It started on Saturday by spending most of the day with a group of people who were going through our Basics Class in preparation for membership. God continues to grow our church - PTL! Sunday was a wonderful day of worship with strong attendance at both services and a number of visitors to boot! Today, my dear, sweet wife and I went to see "The Help," a superb movie. If "The Help" doesn't capture some Academy Awards I'll call for a recount. My kids tell me that the book is even better than the film. Back to work tomorrow - hope your weekend went well too.

Kirk Gibson for President!

2011-09-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

My baseball team is the St. Louis Cardinals. And now, as they have done for the last four years, the Cardinals started out the year quickly but are now fading, this time to the Milwaukee Brewers. But, as sportscasters like to say, "How about those Diamondbacks!" The D-Backs do not have a locker room full of superstars and their payroll isn't even close to teams like the Yankees and Red Sox. But I believe the manager, Kirk Gibson, has motivated this team to play hard and Gibson seems to always have the right players on the field or in the batter's box when they are needed. So...go Diamondbacks!!

How to size up a person

2011-09-05T14:13:00.000-07:00

In Matthew, chapter 15, Jesus said to a crowd: Listen and understand. What goes into a man's mouth does not make him "unclean," but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him "unclean."

The Pharisees, Jesus' self-righteous enemies, considered a person unclean or unacceptable to God by failing to keep their regulations and traditions. The Pharisees rule book far exceeded the commands of God. For example, the Pharisees had very specific regulations about when and how a person should wash their hands. But the people were expected to know and to keep every little rule.

The disciples didn't quite get what Jesus meant and asked him to explain His little parable. Here's verses 16-20: Are you still so dull? Jesus asked them. Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? But the things that come out of a mouth come from the heart and these make a man "unclean." For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man "unclean;" but eating with unwashed hands does not make him "unclean."

Jesus does something very revealing here. He described the defilement of a person in much different terms than the Pharisees. The Lord teaches that defilement comes from an impure hearts. What seperates a person from God is not what they eat but by their sinful and unrepentant ways.

So if you really want to know what a person is made of just listen to what they say and write. Do their words defend or accuse? Do their words lift up or tear down. Do their words frame a person's actions in the best and kindest way or is their goal to hurt and ruin a reputation. Oh, we all need to repent for things we've said and done that failed to keep God's command. Have mercy on us, O Lord! Still, if you really want to know what is in a person's heart, then do as Jesus advises - hear what comes out of their mouth.

I'm blessed!

2011-09-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

And so are you according to Jesus. Do these words of the Lord mean anything to you?

Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:11-12

So when you suffer persecution, don't worry. You are blessed. Jesus says so. Instead, take comfort in these words from the Apostle Paul: Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge my friends by leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," say the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:17-21

Check out this video!!

2011-09-03T15:27:00.000-07:00

Who is the most interesting man in the world? If you missed it, go back to the home page and watch the video!

NCIS is just around the corner!

2011-09-01T15:41:00.000-07:00

Woo Hoo! Just learned from a friend that our favorite television program, "NCIS," starring Mark Harmon, will begin its ninth season on my birthday, September 20. Chocolate cake and NCIS - now that's a birthday!!

Paid in Full?

2011-09-01T12:08:00.000-07:00

Growing up, my Dad impressed upon me again and again to "pay your bills!" It feels good, doesn't it, when we pay off our debts? But in this Sunday's Epistle lesson, the apostle Paul informs us disciples of Jesus that there is one bill that we will never be able to mark, "Paid in full." What is it? Join us Sunday at Life in Christ and find out. Worship takes place at 8 am and 10:45 am. Hope to see you!

Seen on a church sign

2011-08-31T16:18:00.001-07:00

Love someone not because he is a Christian, but because you are.

My wife a NASCAR racer?

2011-08-30T15:12:00.000-07:00

While rummaging through the house the other day, I saw some pictures that reminded me when my dear, sweet wife went for a ride in an official NASCAR vehicle.

This happened over 10 years ago but it is something that we still talk about. One Christmas I gave Sherri as a gift a ride along pass for the Richard Petty Driving Experience. She had to wait eight months to redeem the pass but it turned out to be worth the wait.

Before Sherri could get in the car she had to fill out about 24 release of liability forms (or so it seemed). Then she was fitted with a helmet and before you could say, "Gentlemen, start your engines," Sherri and her driver, a guy named Mike, roared out of the pit area, making speeds up to 145 miles per hour. The kids and I loved it and at the end of four laps Sherri climbed out of the car weak-kneed and with a huge grin on her face.

As we drove back home after Sherri's great day at the track, it occured to me that, in a small way, her gift mirrored the great gift God has given to us. Sherri received her gift on Christmas day. For eight months she'd had that gift in her possession. Finally, on a Monday in August, Sherri enjoyed the gift.

In the same way, all who trust Jesus as Savior from sin and death have new life right now. John 3:36: Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life. That is God's sure and certain promise that no one can take away. We will enjoy the gift in all its fullness when Jesus returns to gather His church on the Last Day. But we hold the gift now. The writer to the Hebrews wrote: For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance.

May we all rejoice in this precious gift of new life in Christ, whether we are working in our yard, laboring at our work, or flying around a race track at 145 mph!

Who Wants a Free Booklet?

2011-08-29T16:29:00.000-07:00

My friends at "Time of Grace," the great television ministry seen in the Phoenix area every Sunday at 7 am on channel 10, have passed along to me a number of copies of Pastor Mark Jeske's new booklet, "Fathers and Mothers." Raising a family these days is hard, challenging work. Our broken economy puts lots of pressure on Moms and Dads trying to pay the bills and take care of their kids. Pastor Jeske offers a number of tips and ideas on how Fathers and Mothers can love and support each other and, in turn, bless their children too. The booklet will be available in the Narthex at church on Sunday. Pick one up for yourself (if you're a parent) or for your children (if they are parents) or for a friend, family acquaintance, co-worker or neighbor. I believe you'll find "Fathers and Mothers" to be a most helpful resource.

The Most Interesting Man in the World

2011-08-27T16:51:00.000-07:00

Everything He says...happens.

He walks on water. By the way, He created the water.

He is fully God and fully man. That's right, you heard me.

On Christmas, you celebrate His birthday but He gives the gifts. Actually, He is the gift. How do you top that?

He loved you enough not to fight for His own life.

His presence often strikes fear in people - must be the nail-scarred hands.

The President of the United States won't give you the time of day. He'll give you all the time you want.

Thirsty, my friends? Read John, chapter four to learn how to quench your thirst.

Is Jesus Really Serious?

2011-08-26T15:15:00.000-07:00

If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. Does Jesus really mean this? Come and find out this Sunday. Worship at Life in Christ takes place at 8 and 10:45 am with Bible class for adults and Sunday school, confirmation and High School classes at 9:20 am. Join us!