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THE SURPRISE OF CHRISTMAS: MARY!

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Frankly Speaking,

“For THE WORD OF GOD will never fail!” ~ Luke 1:37 NLT

THE SURPRISE OF CHRISTMAS ~ MARY: THE MOTHER OF JESUS! Decisions: Life is full of them every day. Mary had a decision to make when the angel Gabriel appeared to tell her that she would be the mother of Jesus. She could embrace this decision or refuse to agree fighting and fussing all along the way. It was her decision.

Imagine for a moment that you were given the opportunity to take a pill which would ensure that you find love, peace, joy, and hope. You decide to accept this pill, and your life just gets better. It is not your circumstances that change, but your outlook and attitude are brand new. Every day brings fresh wonderful news, and problems no longer seem overwhelm you.

Now, imagine that you choose not to accept this pill. You refuse because you fear the side effects, or what your friends might think. You do not believe that the pill is real. Maybe it is just a hoax that people have fooled themselves into believing. This whole pill thing is just a conspiracy theory. You finally decide, “It’s just a placebo that people have bought into to make themselves happy.” So, you sit cynical, miserable, and frustrated.

What will you do? You must choose: to quote Charles Schulz as Linus, “That’s what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown.” When Gabriel appeared to Mary, it was “Good News!” “Hark the herald angels sing.” Listen to the message of Jesus arriving though Zecheriah. John the Baptist would herald His coming!

“And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for Him, 77 to give His people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, 78 because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven 79 to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.” Luke 1:76-79 NLT

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS.


Blessings in CHRIST,

Pastor Wes

I PETER 3:15

SERVANT LEADERSHIP!

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Frankly Speaking,

“Then I pressed further, “What you are doing is not right! Should you not walk in the fear of our God in order to avoid being mocked by enemy nations?” ~ Nehemiah 5:9 NLT

SERVANT LEADERSHIP! TO TELL THE TRUTH is the name of a television show that aired from 1956 until 1968. On April 29th, 1958, Theodore “Ted” Geisel appeared on the show. You may know him as Dr. Seuss. The show had four people on a panel trying to determine who of three contestants was the real person. Ironically, Dr. Seuss only had one of the panel members guess his Identity. I watched this clip again this week, and I am amazed at both the premise of the show and the outcome of the votes.

I share this because our society has changed the very premise of telling the truth. In fact, most people do not believe what they see and hear. Much of history is being revised. The other problem is that many believe there is no moral truth. We hear things like, “Truth is subjective not objective.” The idea is that one person’s truth may not be valid to another. This is laughable to me because the truth of gravity on earth is a constant. If you jump out of a plane one-hundred times, then you will fall toward the earth one-hundred times. If you do not have a parachute, then you will almost certainly die.

Nehemiah was a man of truth. He did not hesitate to tell people what was right or wrong. Today, far too many people are deciding whether the Bible is inherent, inspired, or merely infallible. While these may all sound the same to you, each word declares a far different opinion in the truths of the Bible. Why is it that when we declare “God is love” that truth is well received? However, state that “God is just” to sinners who reject Him, and people will dispute that scriptural truth because it does not line up with their opinion.

Truth is not a thing; He is a person whose name is JESUS! When Nehemiah revealed sin, the people repented and did what was right. Servant Leaders declare truth ~ convenient or not! Often in the Bible, “false prophets” only said the things people wanted to hear. Choose wisely whom you follow! 😊

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS.

Blessings in CHRIST,

Pastor Wes

I PETER 3:15

IT’S TIME TO REBUILD/RENEW/REDEDICATE ~ DISCIPLESHIP 101!

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Frankly Speaking,

I replied, “THE GOD OF HEAVEN will help us succeed.

We, His servants, will start rebuilding this wall.” ~ Nehemiah 2:20a NLT

REBUILD! ~ Did you read the verse above? “THE GOD OF HEAVEN will help us succeed.” It’s a bold statement! I’ve heard many people make similar statements over the years. However, what we need in order to boldly proclaim something like this is… “nearness to GOD.” Far too often, these statements are made without consulting or talking to GOD, much less communing with the very ONE WHOM we are claiming will do it.

Bold statements without the time-worn channels of intimate communication with GOD have become all too familiar as we watch spiritual leaders fall into temptation and secrets which have now become public knowledge. How much time have you spent alone with GOD lately? We need to meet with JESUS daily reading HIS WORD, praying boldly and biblically, and quietly listen to the HOLY SPIRIT. However, I see too many “Christians” hearing a sermon or seeing a post/meme without even attending church, and then basically yelling about their opinions. They come across as, “THIS IS WHAT I BELIEVE, AND YOU SHOULD TOO!”

My friends, this brand of “Christianity” will not win souls. It is shallow and dangerous. An intimate quiet time with GOD every day will help you walk with GOD, break your heart for lost and lonely people, and help you think more like JESUS as you spend time with HIM in HIS WORD. Remember John the Baptist’s words: “I must decrease, and HE must increase.” Shh… Listen! 😊 

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS.

Blessings in CHRIST,

Pastor Wes

I PETER 3:15

THE GOD OF HEAVEN!

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Frankly Speaking,

I replied, “THE GOD OF HEAVEN will help us succeed. We, His servants, will start rebuilding this wall.” ~ Nehemiah 2:20a NLT

THE GOD OF HEAVEN! ~ Imagine The God of Heaven is a book. It is also a video which you can watch on YouTube. It contains a series of people’s testimonies of near-death experiences. It culminates with a description of those whom John Burke has interviewed. Each of those interviewed describe what happened when their heart stopped, and they were clinically pronounced dead. Each describes that there is most definitely life after death.  If any of these stories are true, then we shouldn’t we prepare for this encounter? Isn’t it worth considering the idea that there is more than this temporary life since we only live for less than a century. Of course, many explain this with science, but what if you’re wrong? What if there is more?

Nehemiah accepts the truth that GOD is THE GOD OF HEAVEN. In fact, so does everyone who has been recorded by history in the Bible (the best-selling book of all time). There must be a reason! The simple truth of the Bible is redemption. In the Old Testament, the Bible repeatedly illustrates our nature which naturally rebels against GOD.  In his message, Burke states that 23% of people who have near-death experiences see hell. The GOD OF HEAVEN made a way that assures each of us that we can go heaven without worry. However, it is not what we’ve done! It’s all about what JESUS has done. The cross, death, burial, and resurrection was all for you! GOD loves you! 😊 

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS.

Blessings in CHRIST,

Pastor Wes

I PETER 3:15

FINAL INSTRUCTIONS!

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Frankly Speaking,

“13 Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith.

Be courageous. Be strong.

14 And do everything with love.”

~ I Corinthians 16:13-14 NLT

FINAL INSRUCTIONS! ~ If you weren’t sure you’d ever see someone again what would your final words be to the one whom you love? Paul leaves the Corinthian church with five incredible statements of faith. As you examine them, I am sure you find that each of them applies to you as well. 😊

First, “Be on guard.” The Bible is full of warnings about our hearts. Jesus often warned His disciples to “Be on guard.” John writes, “Little children, guard yourselves from idols.” (I John 5:21) In another passage, the Bible also tells us that, “The peace of God will guard our hearts and minds.” (Philippians 4:7) We are told to always keep watch as we walk through this life. Trials and temptation will come our way; we must choose to remain ready!

Second, “Stand firm in the faith.” Regarding the Armor of God, we must we are challenged to “Stand Firm.” (Ephesians 6:11 & 13) Attacks and trouble will come throughout our lives. How we deal with them proves our faith.

Third, “Be courageous” and fourth, “Be strong.” This is what Moses told Joshua as he prepared for death. Moses wanted to be sure Joshua was ready to lead. Later, Joshua repeated it often. Here’s what he said, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

Fifth and finally, “Do everything with love.” This is Christianity 101. Whatever we do, we do it all with the love of God in our hearts.  In this letter to the church at Corinth, God has told us to love above all else. If we have tongues of angels, knowledge of future events, faith to move mountains, give all our money to the poor, and allow our bodies to be broken, without love we are nothing. People don’t care how much you know: they simply need to know how much you care!

So, let’s love like there may be no tomorrow. 😊

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS.

Blessings in CHRIST,

Pastor Wes

I PETER 3:15

PS ~ Be safe, and we hope to see you soon. 🙂

THE MYSTERY OF THE RESURRECTION

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Frankly Speaking,

57 But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death

through our Lord Jesus Christ.” ~ I Corinthians 15:57 NLT

THE MYSTERY OF THE RESURRECTION! ~ We live in a day where conspiracy theories have become the norm! There is a rising number of people who doubt we ever went to the moon. They are convinced that the whole lunar landing was done in the 1960’s using green screen technology (which did not exist yet!). There are so many little things that ought to make us scratch our heads. For instance, most news broadcasts have become talk television to bolster ratings. I still believe we need a new service called JTN (Just the News) with no spin or opinions. So, how did we get here?

21 Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship Him as God or even give Him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. 22 Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. 23 And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles.       Romans 1:21-23 NLT

Not prepared for some biblical truth today? Well, it’s not too late to change that. Our biggest problem is that we would rather make up stuff rather than simply worship our Creator for Who He is. Did you know that God loves you?  This is not the kind of love we have for food, opinions, or passing fancies. This is an “I created you to be in a personal relationship with Me kind of love.” This kind of love doesn’t give up on you when you blow it. It is an unconditional love that endures, teaches, reproves, and sometimes corrects.

Life does not end when our hearts stop beating. That’s when real life begins for those who have trusted Jesus. The Bible says, “For me to live is Christ, but to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21) Do you see it? There are two promises. First, living for Christ is awesome, unlike anything else. Second, when we die, we don’t have to be afraid because our lives will be even better. This is not a conspiracy: it’s a biblical truth given to us by our loving God. And yes, we are still awaiting the sound of the trumpet and His return! 😊

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS.

Blessings in CHRIST,

Pastor Wes

I PETER 3:15

THE RESURRECTION OF THE BODY!

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Frankly Speaking,

“Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength.” ~ I Corinthians 15:43

THE RESURRECTION OF THE BODY! ~  The Year was 1978! I remember going to the Royal Palm Theater to watch a film that was narrated by Orson Welles. At the time it was riveting. As I look back, the movie was probably not well produced nor award winning. In fact, this show only received 3.7 stars out of 10 stars on IDMB. NO, it was not War of the Worlds. Bonus for trying. 😊 The flick was called The Late Great Planet Earth. It was based upon Hal Lindsey’s prophetic book proclaiming the return of Christ was to happen very soon.

Prior to this, in 1972, there was a series of movies beginning with A Thief in the Night, followed by A Distant Thunder, Image of the Beast, and The Prodigal Planet. Most of you may have to take my word about these films trying to warn people about the return of Christ and the tribulation. A much more modern series of films started in 2,000, starring Kirk Cameron. This series was called Left Behind.  A few years later in 2014, this series was rebooted with Nicolas Cage as the main character. It appears that many people want to know more about Christ’s return.

The strangest part is that we have neglected to turn to the source of these blockbuster films. I am not talking about the screenplay nor the book the authors wrote. We can find everything we’re looking for in the BIBLE. GOD’S plan is found in the book of the Revelation of JEUS CHRIST. Some Bibles label this book the Apocalypse; however, that is an incorrect description. You see, the whole BIBLE is ALL about JESUS. Yes, it’s ALL about HIM!

The verse at the heading of this post states that although we “are buried in weakness,” those who follow JESUS will be “will be raised in strength.” Whether living or long dead, there is a hope in the return of JESUS for those who trust Him. That’s why the Bible says, “we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope.” (I Thessalonians 5:13) There is always HOPE in JESUS CHRIST! 😊

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS.

Blessings in CHRIST,

Pastor Wes

I PETER 3:15

I’LL SEE YOU IN COURT!

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Frankly Speaking,

When one of you has a dispute with another believer, how dare you file a lawsuit and ask a secular court to decide the matter instead of taking it to other believers!                                ~ I Corinthians 6:1 NLT

SEE YOU IN COURT! ~ Some people say that the BIBLE is full of “gray areas” which have no clear directions for life. Truthfully, the BIBLE gives us complete instructions for life. Some may not like what GOD has to say because we like to do things our own way. However, true Christians must decide to let GOD have total control. Often, we take over because we don’t like what HE has to say. When we do this, we make our selves our own GOD. The BIBLE calls this idolatry. In other words, we become our own idols. OUCH!! Listen to this…

Then HE told them what they could expect for themselves: Anyone who intends to come with ME has to let ME lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat — I am.”                                                                 ~ Luke 9:23 ~ MSG

If this translation seems too modern, then listen to this:

Then HE said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after ME, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow ME.”

~ Luke 9:23 ~ NKJV

The WORD of GOD says, “Do not take your brothers or sisters to court.” This is not a suggestion or guideline. True believers will judge the world and angels. We’re asked what’s so important in light of eternity that is worth suing our fellow Christian. First, to you believe the BIBLE? Second, follow GOD’S plan regardless of your expectations. Isn’t it worth losing something and letting it go for heaven’s sake?

At the end of the day, here’s our checklist: “Did I follow and obey what GOD said in HIS WORD?” The BIBLE calls this obedience. It’s what disciples do! When we are baptized, we proclaim that we no longer live for ourselves: Now, we live for JESUS! ~ SEE YOU IN HEAVEN! 😊

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS

Blessings in CHRIST,

Pastor Wes

I PETER 3:15

“ALLOWED” or “ALL-OWED?”

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Frankly Speaking,

12 You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. And even though “I am allowed to do anything,” I must not become a slave to anything.                                     ~ I Corinthians 6:12 NLT

I CAN DO WHATEVER I WANT! ~ Some of us invest too much time thinking about what is fair. That is “stinking thinking” as Zig Ziglar said so often. We focus on a word that demands its own way. “I am ALLOWED to do whatever I want!”  Look at the word ~ ALLOWED!

Now, let’s think about what GOD says,

“19 Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of THE HOLY SPIRIT, WHO lives in you and was given to you by GOD? You do not belong to yourself, 20 for GOD bought you with a high price. So, you must honor GOD with your body.”                   ~ I Corinthians 6:19-20 NLT

Think about that word ~ “ALLOWED!” Look at it again … ALL– OWED! Do you see it now? Everything you have is a gift from GOD. It is ALL – OWED to HIM. You were bought with a price. The blood of JESUS cleaned you up and made you acceptable in GOD’S sight.

“But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, GOD’S very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of GOD, for HE called you out of the darkness into HIS wonderful light.

Once you had no identity as a people; now you are GOD’S people. Once you received no mercy; now you have received GOD’S mercy.

Dear friends, I warn you as ‘temporary residents and foreigners’ to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls. 12 Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to GOD when HE judges the world.”                           ~ I Peter 2:9-12 NLT

Hope you will take time to make allowance for this post! 😊

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS

Blessings in CHRIST,

Pastor Wes

I PETER 3:15

How to Get Kicked Out of Church!

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Frankly Speaking,

You are so proud of yourselves, but you should be mourning in sorrow and shame. ~ I Corinthians 5:2b NLT

CHURCH DISCIPLINE! ~ What does it take to embarrass you? Some people say that they never get embarrassed or ashamed. I find that hard to believe. Often, Christians are seen as stuffy and narrow-minded because we discipline ourselves to avoid many of the popular cultural tendencies of the day. However, shouldn’t we be conscientious of what we do and say around our children?

There was a time when we treated others with respect, especially women and children. Yes, I am older and maybe a bit wiser too. Some things ought to cause us to blush. If you question that concept, check this out:

Are they ashamed of their disgusting actions? Not at all—they don’t even know how to blush! ~ Jeremiah 6:15a NLT

Now that we agree blushing can be a good thing, how do we correct someone in the church who seems to have forgotten this truth? How do we approach someone who is living a life of sin while actively leading the church: pastor, minister, board-member, trustee, deacon, teacher, and more? Which sin does the church act upon in the lives of these non-blushers? What are the qualifications to be an admonisher? Finally, how do we work all of this out in our current culture with so many churches re-writing or at least re-interpreting the BIBLE?

This leaves us in a challenging place. Do we do nothing pretending GOD says anything goes? Do we begin with a witch hunt as we have done so many times in the church? Perhaps, it begins with each of us alone with GOD praying and spending time with HIM. Seek HIS wisdom and direction. Barney would say this is how we “Nip it” in each of our lives, first! 😊

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS

Blessings in CHRIST,

Pastor Wes

I PETER 3:15