God s Wisdom James 3: 13 4: 8a September 20, 2015 The Presbyterian Church of Dover DE
|
|
- Eric Long
- 6 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 1 God s Wisdom James 3: 13 4: 8a September 20, 2015 The Presbyterian Church of Dover DE In working on this text this week, I was put in mind of a family I know whose experience could have been a parable for James. Of course, James is not a storyteller. His writing has more in common with the wisdom literature of the bible than with the synoptic gospels. Nevertheless, I ll share the story. The parents in this story would be a little older than I am now, but this story takes place when their two sons were in their late teens. The father was a high-powered corporate lawyer in North Carolina, who made a lot of money, and was certainly on his way to being made a full partner in his prestigious law firm. A goal which he did eventually achieve, by the way. The mother was his supportive partner in his admirable ambition, belonging to the right clubs and groups, willing and able to entertain graciously at the drop of a hat. They were active in their Presbyterian church, serving in leadership roles. Their older son seemed to have soaked all this in, was a good athlete and excellent student. To their delight, he was accepted into an Ivy League university and had just started there. The younger son was the problem child. He was just not ambitious! He followed sports, but was happy to throw Frisbees with his friends and not interested in playing on any school teams. He had an interest in plants, but no particular burning desire to go to college. When his senior year in high school came, he told his parents he wanted to do some apprentice work with a local organic farming business. He wanted to learn how to feed people better food for less money. They were appalled and embarrassed. James is concerned here with the contrast between the wisdom from above, or God s wisdom, with the wisdom from below, or the world s wisdom.
2 2 We live in a world where ambition is expected and admired. If you don t have ambition, you may be labeled as some kind of slacker or deadbeat. In our world, climbing the ladder is a way of life. I do understand that some kinds of ambition can be good. For instance, the ambition to feed people better food for less money is a good one. The ambition to end our reliance on fossil fuels is a good one. But the problem with most of our ambitions is that they are about us, and when we are self-absorbed, we can usually justify questionable means to get to the ends we desire. In general, the language we use in relation to ambition is about acquiring; acquiring more money, acquiring more things, acquiring more influence and power, and finding our names moving up the organizational chart. Upward mobility, in short. Henri Nouwen was a Dutch born Catholic priest who became a university professor and spiritual writer. He was educated and ordained in the Netherlands but came to study in the US in the early 60s and remained in North America for the most part for the rest of his life. He was involved in the civil rights movement in the South, and by the early 70s, found himself on the faculty of Yale Divinity School. He later was also on the faculty of Harvard Divinity School. He struggled with the meaning of his own vocation and the question of where God was truly calling him. He tried to live a simple life, rooted in prayer and obedience to God, but he suffered doubts about his comfortable status as a professor and his enjoyment of the admiration of others. He became friends with Jean Vanier, founder of L Arche, an international federation of communities in 35 countries for people with developmental disabilities and those who assist them and live with them. Henri Nouwen became the pastor to the L Arche community in Toronto in 1986 and lived there for the last 10 years of his life. Years
3 3 earlier he had written about the concept of downward mobility. Nouwen wrote that the story of our salvation through Jesus Christ stands over and against the traditional notions of upward mobility. The Word of God, Jesus Christ, came down to us and lived among us as a servant. Some people wanted to make Jesus a worldly king, but he lived a life of powerlessness in the eyes of the world, choosing to serve others. I remember reading about Nouwen coming back to address a graduating class at Harvard Divinity School and making this downward mobility the focus of his address. I imagine there was a lot of seat squirming and polite applause at the end. James would have loved it! James would have celebrated that Henri Nouwen finally chose to live according to God s wisdom. James answers two key questions for us in today s passage, I think. First, how can we recognize God s wisdom, the wisdom from above? His answer is basically, by its fruits. People who exhibit God s wisdom are peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. And this is lived out. This is not all in the head. It s in the behavior. We have all seen the cartoons where some wise guru is sitting on the top of a mountain, and the seeker climbs up at great personal exertion to ask, What is the meaning of life? with the expectation that this wise person will dispense a neat and concise answer. This is not that. This is the wisdom exhibited by Dorothy Day in the slums of New York City, by Mother Theresa in the slums of Calcutta, by Father Jorge Bergoglio in the slums of Buenos Aires. Now he is Pope Francis. This is the wisdom of feet on the ground, of feet being washed. It is the wisdom of unknown saints as well.
4 4 It has been my great honor to have such unknown saints in the churches I have served and that includes this congregation of course. But I ve been thinking of a nurse named Ellie who served the community of Morehead KY for many years and now lives in a retirement community in Virginia, where she continues to serve others. She helped start the Hospice chapter in Morehead, and after her retirement she continued to volunteer for them. I went with her one time to a home, far up in a hollow (or holler, as we say in KY), known only by the name of the creek that carved it out of the mountain. We were visiting an older couple where the woman was dying of cancer. Ellie came to check vitals and her official duties, but stayed to listen, to encourage, and to gently rub the feet of the woman, simply radiating comfort. We prayed and left. These are the fruits of the wisdom from above, the wisdom of God. We can recognize it by its fruits. We can recognize it in those who focus on God and serving God s people more than they focus on their positions or possessions. The other question James answers is this one: How can we get it? Draw near to God, and God will draw near to you. In other words, James tells us that we need to learn how to pray faithfully. James encourages us not to be friends with the world, but to be friends with God who is the creator of every good gift. James scolds us by saying that we pray for the wrong things. I would confess to that, wouldn t you? I confess to the temptation to pray for our house to sell sooner than later. What I should pray for is the wisdom of the good gifts of patience and trust. My friends, we should have confidence in the good gifts of God within ourselves, with faith that God s Spirit stands ready to grant our requests. Henri Nouwen often referred to the great hymn of praise to Christ in Philippians: Let this same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus:
5 5 who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, 7 but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, 8 he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death even death on a cross. (Phil. 2: 5-8) May we draw near to God, with an openness that allows us to empty ourselves of the wisdom from below the wisdom of this world so that we may be filled with the wisdom from above God s wisdom through the gifts of the Spirit already planted within us. May it be so. Amen Mary Baber Reed Sources: Henri Nouwen, The Selfless Way of Christ: Downward Mobility and the Spiritual Life, Maryknoll NY: Orbis Books, James Boyce, Commentary on James 3: 13 4: 3, 7-8a, Alan Brehm, Gentle Strength, The Waking Dreamer,
With Burning Hearts By Henri J.M. Nouwen
With Burning Hearts By Henri J.M. Nouwen Discussion Questions for Nouwen Reading Groups Five Week Program 2012 Henri Nouwen Society With Burning Hearts A Meditation on the Eucharistic Life By Henri J.M.
More informationMessage: Serve Others with Great Love Is it good to be great? Henri Nouwen is a famous Christian teacher, author, and spiritual leader, who is
Message: Serve Others with Great Love Is it good to be great? Henri Nouwen is a famous Christian teacher, author, and spiritual leader, who is well-known around the world. Nouwen was a Catholic priest,
More informationSermon 4 th Sunday of Easter (Vocations Sunday)
Sermon 4 th Sunday of Easter (Vocations Sunday) Today is Vocations Sunday, a day on which the church invites us to think about God s calling to us. This morning we would be exploring what this means to
More informationSermon, 1 Corinthians 1: Lent 3, 2015 March 8, 2015
Sermon, 1 Corinthians 1: HPMF Lent 3, 2015 March 8, 2015 Title: The foolishness of Christ 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 (The Message) 18-21 The Message that points to Christ on the Cross seems like sheer silliness
More informationPEACEWORK Prayer Resistance Community By Henri J.M. Nouwen Discussion Questions for Nouwen Reading Groups Four week Program
PEACEWORK Prayer Resistance Community By Henri J.M. Nouwen Discussion Questions for Nouwen Reading Groups Four week Program 2012 Henri Nouwen Society 1 2 About Henri Nouwen The internationally renowned
More informationPRAYING HENRI J.M. NOUWEN. the Way of the Cross. with
PRAYING the Way of the Cross with HENRI J.M. NOUWEN Pilate Condemns Jesus To Death Immediately after Jesus is handed over, he becomes the one to whom things are being done. He s being arrested; he s being
More informationFinding My Way Home PATHWAYS TO LIFE AND THE SPIRIT. Henri J.M. Nouwen. Discussion Questions for Nouwen Reading Groups Five week Program
Finding My Way Home PATHWAYS TO LIFE AND THE SPIRIT Henri J.M. Nouwen Discussion Questions for Nouwen Reading Groups Five week Program Copyright 2012 Henri Nouwen Society 1 2 About Henri Nouwen The internationally
More informationHe saw the bottomless depths of human misery and felt that there was nothing worth living for.
The Wounded Healer Today s Scripture reminded me one of my favorite spiritual writers, Henri Nouwen. He was a man with a mighty thirst for God, who sought God, and called upon Him. Henri was born in 1932
More informationMaking All Things New
Making All Things New An Invitation to the Spiritual Life By Henri J.M. Nouwen Four Week Program 2012 Henri Nouwen Society 1 2 About Henri Nouwen The internationally renowned priest and author, respected
More informationThe High Value of Humility Philippians 2:1-11
The High Value of Humility Philippians 2:1-11 A. Contrary to popular opinion being a Christian is NOT about believing ourselves to be one, it is about thinking like the Lord -- in order to live like Him.
More informationHere and Now By Henri J.M. Nouwen
Here and Now By Henri J.M. Nouwen Discussion Questions for Nouwen Reading Groups nouwensociety@nouwen.net www.henrinouwen.org Toll free in US and Canada: 1-866-226-2158 x110 2008 Henri Nouwen Society 1
More informationWith Open Hands By Henri J.M. Nouwen
With Open Hands By Henri J.M. Nouwen Discussion Questions for Nouwen Reading Groups Five Week Program 2012 Henri Nouwen Society 1 2 About Henri Nouwen The internationally renowned priest and author, respected
More informationQ1: How would you define a neighbor now that we can be so connected to so many people?
Student Lesson 2.4 Who Is My Neighbor? We throw the word neighbor around a lot. Mr. Rogers famously talked about the neighborhood and told us to be kind to our neighbor. However, how we understand who
More informationWelcome To Celebrate Recovery Yes
Welcome To Celebrate Recovery Yes (December 1, 2010) Creekside Community Church 951 MacArthur Blvd. San Leandro, California 94577 510-430-0607 1 A. Introduction Celebrate Recovery Yes 1. We need to tell
More informationSr. Ann Billard, OLM, Ph.D.
1 of 11 04/08/2014 Saying YES to the Call of Aging Sr. Ann Billard, OLM, Ph.D. O God, you call all to life and wholeness. You are the one who brings light out of darkness; hope out of despair. You are
More informationThe Return of the Prodigal Son By Henri J.M. Nouwen
The Return of the Prodigal Son By Henri J.M. Nouwen Discussion Questions for Nouwen Reading Groups Five Week Program 2012 Henri Nouwen Society The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri J.M. Nouwen 1992 New
More informationRomans 12:1 From Faith to Faithfulness
Romans 12:1 From Faith to Faithfulness The Gospel message challenges a person to (first) repent of a hope for reconciliation with God that is based on human merit and replace it with faith in the finished
More informationII PETER Pursuing Spiritual Growth - Part 2 November 17, 2013
II PETER Pursuing Spiritual Growth - Part 2 November 17, 2013 I. His Divine power has granted us everything necessary for life and godliness. Therefore, pursue godly qualities and behaviors. A. II Peter
More information#2 LIFE ON THE VINE: CULTIVATING JOY. 2. Jesus told His disciples that by being in the Vine, they would bear much fruit to the glory of the Father.
#2 LIFE ON THE VINE: CULTIVATING JOY 2. Jesus told His disciples that by being in the Vine, they would bear much fruit to the glory of the Father. John 15:3-11 You are already clean because of the word
More informationThe Story The Very Nature Of A Servant We have spent the entire summer months looking at the life of Jesus. We began in June with the story of his
The Story The Very Nature Of A Servant We have spent the entire summer months looking at the life of Jesus. We began in June with the story of his baptism, the inauguration of his public ministry. We talked
More informationJAMES: A GLC BOOK STUDY SESSION 3: FAITH THAT WORKS NAME CONTACT INFO: Ptr. Jonathan Bradford
JAMES: A GLC BOOK STUDY SESSION 3: FAITH THAT WORKS Ptr. Jonathan Bradford NAME CONTACT INFO: 1 OUTLINE A. Faith that works is manifested in speech. B. Faith that works is manifested in wisdom. A. Faith
More informationFirst Presbyterian Church of Cleveland
Liturgist Guidelines First Presbyterian Church of Cleveland Thank you for volunteering your help in leading worship. Worship is the heart of our congregation and therefore should be done to the very best
More informationAddress Street City State Zip EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE
1730 Destiny Lane, Bowling Green, KY 42104 (270) 782-9552 Fax (270) 782-9585 bgca@bgcawarriors.org Application 5/17 Our Mission: STAFF APPLICATION Non-Teaching To provide students a Christian education
More informationLoving the Person Next to You Part 1 ~ Loving Your Neighbor as Yourself John 13:31-35 ~ Philippians 2:1-11
Loving the Person Next to You Part 1 ~ Loving Your Neighbor as Yourself John 13:31-35 ~ Philippians 2:1-11 Rev. Jeff Chapman ~ February 20, 2011 ~ Faith Presbyterian Church 31 When he had gone out, Jesus
More informationOct. 14, 2018 Mark 9: meaning. We want to please you, but we must understand the Scripture to do so. In Jesus.
Oct. 14, 2018 Mark 9: 30-37 Prayer: Dear God, grant us understanding of your holy Word and travel with us into its meaning. We want to please you, but we must understand the Scripture to do so. In Jesus
More informationTwo Kinds of Wisdom GPPC Mark 9:30-37, James 3:13 4:3, 7-8. reformer and pioneer of the Protestant Reformation, did not merely
Two Kinds of Wisdom GPPC 9-23-18 Mark 9:30-37, James 3:13 4:3, 7-8 1 You may know that Martin Luther, the 16 th century church reformer and pioneer of the Protestant Reformation, did not merely have a
More informationMaintaining a God-Centered Focus
Maintaining a God-Centered Focus The following texts and quotes are intended to help maintain a God-centered focus during Satan s attempts to distract and destroy. The key to maintaining a God-centered
More informationGive thanks to God for the forgiveness of others Pray for those who work in the sweatshops of Asia making the goods we buy
Philippians 4:8-14 No: 23 Week: 257 Friday 6/08/10 Prayer Great Creator and majestic Lord, show us your power by restoring Your Church again. You alone can do this glorious work, and You alone can encourage
More informationThe Spirit of the Lord helped Samson do this amazing feat of strength. For young boys, that was a kind of Holy Spirit they could get behind.
Humility Jesus Style Lynne Baab 8 June 2014 Sermon: Philippians 2:1-11 Other scripture: John 14:16-19, 25-26 and John 16:7-16 My husband Dave and I have two boys. When they were about 4 and 6, their favourite
More informationJunior Teacher Guide January Table of Contents
Junior Teacher Guide January 2019 Table of Contents Lesson Warm Up Story Activity Page January 6 Desire God Discuss how obedience Zion and Zaya Talk Make an I Love 3 (based on 2 Thessalonians 3: 1- to
More informationSaint Raphael. Welcoming Bishop Perez During His First Visit to St. Raphael Most Reverend Nelson Perez, Bishop of Cleveland, January 2018
January 2018 Saint Raphael MONTHLY NEWSLETTER Welcoming Bishop Perez During His First Visit to St. Raphael Most Reverend Nelson Perez, Bishop of Cleveland, will preside at the 4:30 p.m. Vigil Mass at St.
More informationThankless Tasks. ON ONE OCCASION when Jesus was going to the house of a leader. Looking to get ahead in life? Don t follow Jesus s advice.
Thankless Tasks Looking to get ahead in life? Don t follow Jesus s advice. MATTHEW KENNEDY ON ONE OCCASION when Jesus was going to the house of a leader of the Pharisees to eat a meal on the sabbath, they
More informationAN ORDINATION LITANY
Either of the following is used. AN ORDINATION LITANY God the Father, Creator of heaven and earth, God the Son, Redeemer of the world, God the Holy Spirit, giver of life, Holy, blessed and glorious Trinity,
More informationBeing able to befriend our dying can change the way we live
Being able to befriend our g dying can change the way we live Befriending Death Catholic Health Alliance of Canada Annual Conference Health Care Trends and Transformation May 1, 2010 Michelle O Rourke
More informationFINANCIAL FAITH A 40-DAY BIBLE STUDY SERIES
FINANCIAL FAITH A 40-DAY BIBLE STUDY SERIES INTRODUCTION I have come to the conviction that God owns everything and that all that I have is exactly what he entrusted to me as a steward or manager. What
More informationNEW VISION BAPTIST CHURCH BELONGING I WILL NOT LET THE CHURCH BE ABOUT MY PREFERENCES AND DESIRES SEPTEMBER 1, 2013
NEW VISION BAPTIST CHURCH BELONGING I WILL NOT LET THE CHURCH BE ABOUT MY PREFERENCES AND DESIRES SEPTEMBER 1, 2013 MAIN POINT Belonging to the body of Christ means laying aside personal preferences and
More informationTop 25 Spiritual Equivalencies of HOME, Rev. J. Scott Cartwright 1
WHCA/WiCAL 53 rd Annual Spring Conference Top 25 Vital Spiritual Equivalencies of Rev. Scott Cartwright, MDiv., BCC Director of Spiritual Care Cerenity Senior Care of White Bear Lake 651-232-1842 scott.cartwright@bhshealth.org
More informationMaking peace with and honoring our parents is also a path to making peace with parts of ourselves. At the literal level, the commandment moves beyond
Commandment 5 2017 Today we are half way through the Big 10; the Ten Commandments. And it is interesting how the commandments are shifting. In this series, we are looking at the traditional scripture language
More informationPre-Election 2016 Fasting and Prayer Guide
Pre-Election 2016 Fasting and Prayer Guide This guide is a simple, non-comprehensive resource to use with your community to help focus minds and hearts on the greatest commandment for all Christians: Love
More informationForgiveness is a journey; it is not just an event.
To Forgive Matthew 18:21-35 A sermon by William M. Klein 17 September 2017 Our Gospel lesson for today comes from chapter 18 or Matthew s Gospel account. Before we get there, though, let me give you a
More informationThe values of Catholic education
The values of Catholic education Posted on: 6th September 2013 Author: Nicholas King SJ Category: Spirituality and Catholic Life Photo by audio-luci-store.it at flickr.com The task of Catholic educators
More information3/26/2017 Who Is Your Lord 1
"Who Is Your Lord" The most important question you ll ever answer is this, Who is your Lord? Hello, I m Phil Sanders, and this is a Bible study In Search of the Lord s Way. And today, we re going to explore
More informationEighteen months ago, after she pushed for further testing, she was diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer.
Matthew 11:25-30 At that time Jesus said, I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants; yes, Father,
More informationYou Want Me to Give Up What? Mark 10: This past week has been interesting. On one hand, it was a precious time of catching up
1 You Want Me to Give Up What? Mark 10: 17-31 This past week has been interesting. On one hand, it was a precious time of catching up with my sister, of sharing memories, of celebrating our similarities,
More informationCatholic Climate Covenant at Annunciation Parish. Church Teaching & Practical Tips for Saving Our Environment
Catholic Climate Covenant at Annunciation Parish Church Teaching & Practical Tips for Saving Our Environment Catholic Climate Covenant A Annunciation s G Green A Awareness (for) P Protecting (our) E Environment
More informationReceive. Reflect. Remember. Sunday, April 2
Sunday, April 2 Colossians 3:1 17 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on
More informationWeek 15 Our Obedience Matthew 6:19-33
Week 15 Our Obedience Matthew 6:19-33 WEEK 15 - HOOK Our Obedience Matthew 6:19-33 HOOK NOTES Q: What in Schindler s example strikes you most profoundly? Q: How might we strive to serve in a like manner
More informationTrinity Lutheran Church September 28, :45 Traditional Worship Service
Trinity Lutheran Church September 28, 2014 8:45 Traditional Worship Service Trinity Lutheran Church Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost September 28, 2014-8:45 Traditional Service PRELUDE MUSIC Invite Invite
More informationLesson 1 He s God. How hard is it to keep from that wide, wicked path?
Lesson 1 He s God 1. From Psalm 1, what does Blessed mean? (Go deep) 2. Why will you be blessed? 3. What will keep you from wickedness? How hard is it to keep from that wide, wicked path? 4. Why should
More informationRECEPTION OF THE CHILD
RECEPTION OF THE CHILD The people may sing a psalm or a hymn while the celebrating priest goes to the entrance of the church or to that part of the church where the parents and godparents are waiting with
More informationAs your group time begins, use this section to help get the conversation going.
SEARCH AND RESCUE James 5:19-20 LEADER S GUIDE GETTING STARTED As your group time begins, use this section to help get the conversation going. Over the course of your life, has there ever been something
More informationJesus and Christianity
1 An Easter sermon delivered by the Rev. Timothy C. Ahrens, senior minister at the First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Columbus, Ohio, April 12, 2009, Easter Sunday, dedicated to the
More informationROUND. A Life and Business Changing Experience TABLE. Curriculum: Biblical Decision-Making. in Business STEWARDSHIP & SERVANTHOOD
ROUND A Life and Business Changing Experience Curriculum: Biblical Decision-Making in Business STEWARDSHIP & SERVANTHOOD Biblical Decision-Making in Business But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask
More informationEdwards Order of Worship The Seventeenth Sunday After Pentecost October 1 st, 2017
Year One Seventeenth Sunday After Pentecost Daily Office BCP P.986 Copyright license #253227 Edwards Order of Worship The Seventeenth Sunday After Pentecost October 1 st, 2017 Faithfulness Dear Friends,
More informationWhat do you call a baby that grows older but mentally stays a baby? We say they have a developmental disability.
Video Footprints in the sand. You accept Christ as your Savior and you are a baby Christian, but God doesn t expect you to remain a baby, He challenges you and you are expected to grow and over time to
More informationSo, what are we supposed to do?
Christ has Died, Christ is Risen, Christ will come Again Anna Pinckney Straight Old Stone Presbyterian Church ~ Lewisburg, West Virginia December 2, 2018 1 Jeremiah 33:14-16 14The days are surely coming,
More informationGracious God, we are here. We have come throughout the noise and busy-ness of
PASTORAL PRAYER Gracious God, we are here. We have come throughout the noise and busy-ness of our lives to this place to take a time-out. Our lives scream the need for the silence, for rest, for order,
More informationDaybreak, Henri Nouwen, and Me By Jordan Rimmer Sermon given 4/11/2015 Westminster United Presbyterian Church of New Brighton, PA
Daybreak, Henri Nouwen, and Me By Jordan Rimmer Sermon given 4/11/2015 Westminster United Presbyterian Church of New Brighton, PA On March 17-20 I traveled to Toronto, Canada to have a retreat and do some
More informationGod Strengthens Us to Be Holy
NEW EVANGELIZATION EDITION AT-HOME EDITION Grade 4 Chapter 5 God Strengthens Us to Be Holy Before beginning Unit 2, read A Letter Home, found on page 36 of your child s book. Then begin the next paragraph
More information1 Timothy 6:11-21 New American Standard Bible February 25, 2018
1 Timothy 6:11-21 New American Standard Bible February 25, 2018 The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday, February 25, 2018, is from 1 Timothy 6:11-21. Questions
More informationDAILY PRAYER at ST. BARTHOLOMEW S
DAILY PRAYER at ST. BARTHOLOMEW S As our church has entered this season of transition, there is one thing we are sure of. This is no small task and it is one that we are not qualified to do, nor should
More informationSeries: You Can Be a Hero: Lessons on the Armor of God Lesson 5 The Breastplate of Righteousness Wear it & Bear it!
Series: You Can Be a Hero: Lessons on the Armor of God Lesson 5 The Breastplate of Righteousness Wear it & Bear it! Preparation: Make a stained shirt to wear. Find a team jersey to bring. Bring enough
More informationPreparing for Confirmation. Guidelines for Parents, Sponsors and Students
Preparing for Confirmation Guidelines for Parents, Sponsors and Students Introduction Welcome! We, the Confirmation team are looking forward to sharing this journey of faith with you as you prepare to
More informationBEGINNING TO PRAY. When we respond to God by loving life as a precious gift and looking beyond ourselves to those in need, we are beginning to pray.
BEGINNING TO PRAY When we respond to God by loving life as a precious gift and looking beyond ourselves to those in need, we are beginning to pray. Anglican Fellowship of Prayer, Canada Booklet P2 (2017)
More informationWarm-up Students use individual Vocation Tree cards to do Warm-up sheet. ~4 minutes
Lesson 10: Reflection on The Vocation Tree and Application to Self SWBAT name symbols in The Vocation Tree and describe what they symbolize. SWBAT explain that the fruits of the Spirit are given to those
More informationInternational Bible Lessons Commentary Hebrews 4:14-5:10 King James Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, October 16, 2016 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr.
International Bible Lessons Commentary Hebrews 4:14-5:10 King James Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, October 16, 2016 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School
More informationLesson 2 Ready To Rumble Romans 8: 5-17 Written by Warren Weeks
Lesson 2 Ready To Rumble Romans 8: 5-17 Written by Warren Weeks Central Question How open are we to the Spirit s help in overcoming the sin in our life? Introduction I enjoyed watching cartoons growing
More informationPresbyterians Do Mission in Partnership
Presbyterians Do Mission in Partnership 2003 General Assembly Policy Statement Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Summary As heirs to God's grace in Jesus Christ, and joint heirs with all who confess him Lord,
More informationLuke 22:24-30 True Greatness. What does true greatness look like?
Page 1 Luke 22:24-30 True Greatness What does true greatness look like? In Luke s depiction, Jesus has just initiated the Lord s Supper. As we looked at this last time, we noted that Jesus initiated 1)
More informationLiving in God 1 John 2:1=6 John Breon
Living in God 1 John 2:1=6 John Breon We re devoting a series of messages to being who we re meant to be, being the people, being the church God wants us to be. For several years I ve prayed, and encouraged
More informationTitle Week 1. John 1-11
Title Week 1 John 1-11 ABIDE John 15 If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever the Spirit of truth. On that
More informationRedefining Greatness Mark Series
Redefining Greatness Mark Series Message 41 11.25.18 Mark 9:30 41 (CSB) THE SECOND PREDICTION OF HIS DEATH 30 Then they left that place and made their way through Galilee, but he did not want anyone to
More informationThis past week I made a quick trip to Virginia to attend the funeral of my
Joshua 5:9-12; Psalm 32; 1 Cor 5:16-21; Luke 15:1-3, 11-32 Trinity Episcopal Church 4 th Sunday in Lent, Year C-March 18, 2007 The Rev. Linda Spiers This past week I made a quick trip to Virginia to attend
More informationRestoration. reason for boasting in regard to himself alone, and not in regard to another. 5. For each one will bear his own load. (Gal.
1 Restoration Throughout our lives we will know people who are in need of our help. When they fall they ll need someone to pick them up. Then they ll need someone to hold them up; finally, they will need
More informationThe Relationship Between The Elders and The Church
Message for THE LORD'S DAY MORNING, March 2, 2014 Christian Hope Church of Christ, Plymouth, North Carolina by Reggie A. Braziel (Message 3 of 3 in Eldership Series) TOPIC: Church Leadership, Elders The
More informationDying to Live Rev. Emily Wilmarth First Presbyterian Church of Highlands, NC March 22, 2015 John 12:20-33
Dying to Live Rev. Emily Wilmarth First Presbyterian Church of Highlands, NC March 22, 2015 John 12:20-33 This week, I read the powerful story of Paul Kalanithi, a man my age who trained as a neurosurgeon
More informationKnowing the Will of God (A Habit Forming Process)
Acts 22:1-22 Knowing the Will of God (A Habit Forming Process) Introduction: We are looking at Acts which is the history of the earliest Christians and it is a major tool for our understanding as the Church
More informationby Lee E. DeRemer, Colonel, U.S. Air Force, Retired
by Lee E. DeRemer, Colonel, U.S. Air Force, Retired Years ago, a friend and mentor introduced me to the notion that the Christian leader is instructed to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly before
More informationGiving Because Of Our Proclamation. In 1992, I graduated from Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, Virginia. Upon
Giving Because Of Our Proclamation In 1992, I graduated from Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, Virginia. Upon graduation, I was ordained Deacon and six months later Rector of Emmanuel Episcopal
More informationJust 2 choices on the shelf, pleasing God or pleasing self. HARD EASY EASY HARD. Point of Decision
Just 2 choices on the shelf, pleasing God or pleasing self. EASY Matthew 11:30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. John 10:10 - I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. Gal 5:22-23
More informationWelcome to the Inaugural Edition of Praise Portions!
Welcome to the Inaugural Edition of Praise Portions! The four devotions in each monthly edition of Praise Portions are designed to inspire and challenge you and your ministry or worship team. Each of these
More informationA PARENTAL GUIDE. Text: Proverbs 22:6
A PARENTAL GUIDE Text: Proverbs 22:6 Key Word: Parenting Key Thought: What Things must Be Done to Be a Successful Christian Parent? Parenting is one of the most challenging things to do in our world today.
More informationGod s Wisdom SALLY MICHAEL. Teaches biblical wisdom in a way that is clear, fun, and engaging for children. Marty Machowski
God s Wisdom k SALLY MICHAEL Teaches biblical wisdom in a way that is clear, fun, and engaging for children. Marty Machowski Jesus Is the Sure Foundation Suppose you want to build a house from blocks.
More informationIsaiah 61:1-11 Matthew 5:1-12 February 25, 2018 Second Sunday in Lent Preached by Philip Gladden at the Wallace Presbyterian Church, Wallace, NC
Isaiah 61:1-11 Matthew 5:1-12 February 25, 2018 Second Sunday in Lent Preached by Philip Gladden at the Wallace Presbyterian Church, Wallace, NC GOD BLESS YOU Let us pray: Let the words of my mouth and
More informationA Gauge for Maturity Message by DD Adams Providence United Methodist Church August 17, 2014
A Gauge for Maturity Message by DD Adams Providence United Methodist Church August 17, 2014 I ll be reading from the New Revised Standard Version taken from the book of Ephesians, chapter 4, verses 1 through
More informationWeek Five February 4, 2018 Moving Forward in Our Serving, Part 1
FORWARD Week Five February 4, 2018 Moving Forward in Our Serving, Part 1 GETTING READY: Before your group meets next time, spend some time alone in God s Word reading through James 2:14 17, Ephesians 2:8
More informationTwenty-One Days of Fasting and Praying
1 Tue Jan 3 Confess and repent 2 Wed Jan 4 Humble yourself Proverbs 28:13 He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy. Ezekiel 18:21-23 But if a wicked
More informationOUR SEARCH FOR HAPPINESS Matthew 5:1-12
OUR SEARCH FOR HAPPINESS Matthew 5:1-12 Kelly Boyte Brill Avon Lake UCC 26 June 2016 I ve never met anyone who doesn t want to be happy. Happiness is even called an unalienable right in the United States
More informationRooted and Built up Colossians 2:6-10 (NKJV)
Rooted and Built up Colossians 2:6-10 (NKJV) Today we continue with chapter two, where Paul was writing to fight off the false teaching that had made its way into Colossae. The attack was toward Jesus,
More informationTHE CORD. San Luis Rey Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order Mission San Luis Rey, Oceanside, CA.
THE CORD San Luis Rey Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order Mission San Luis Rey, Oceanside, CA. Important- Please note the following change in meeting date! - Council will meet in the O'Keefe Room
More informationChrist has set us free July 1, 2007 Rev. Nathaniel R. Elliot, Jr
There s a sort of unofficial season that occurs every year between Memorial Day and Independence Day when we focus, more or less, on patriotism, what it is to be free, the freedoms we enjoy under the Constitution,
More informationOur Generous God. Lesson One. Genesis 1:1; Psalm 100; John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 8:8 9; Philippians 2:5 8; James 1:17 18
FOCAL TEXT Genesis 1:1; Psalm 100; John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 8:8 9; Philippians 2:5 8; James 1:17 18 BACKGROUND Genesis 1:1; Psalm 100; John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 8:8 9; Philippians 2:5 8; James 1:17 18 MAIN
More informationInternational Bible Lesson Commentary Hebrews 4:14-5:10
International Bible Lessons Commentary Hebrews 4:14-5:10 New International Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, October 16, 2016 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday
More informationSTRENGTH FROM WEAKNESS 2 Corinthians 12:1-10; Mark 6:1-13
STRENGTH FROM WEAKNESS 2 Corinthians 12:1-10; Mark 6:1-13 We live in a culture that s not very comfortable with weakness. Its power and strength that is valued above all else. As human beings we ve all
More information4:14 5:14 18, 2015 L.G.
International Bible Lessons Commentary Hebrews 4:14 5:14 New American Standard Bible International Bible Lessons Sunday, January 18, 2015 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday
More informationHow do you react when you see someone being taken advantage of? How about when someone takes advantage of you?
The Rebuilt Life Studies in Nehemiah Session 4 Crisis in the Community Nehemiah Chapter 5 In our previous session, we saw Nehemiah and his crew working shoulder to shoulder. But what happened to this picture
More informationG. Craige Works All Rights Reserved
2 www.adamantbeliever.com/bethankful2.pdf 2017 G. Craige Works All Rights Reserved God promised that He would never leave you nor forsake you. His faithfulness is something to always be thankful for. Matt.
More informationAwed by Jesus Humility February 24, 2019
Last week in our current series, Living in Awe of Jesus, we focused on Living in Awe of Jesus Power. And we discovered that Jesus demonstrated his power and control over various diseases, Satan and his
More informationTHE SUFFICIENCY OF CHRIST IN MARRIAGE. Not just enough, Plenty!
THE SUFFICIENCY OF CHRIST IN MARRIAGE Not just enough, Plenty! Yes, it s true, I may not be a Master Builder. I may not have a lot of experience fighting or leading or coming up with ideas in general.
More informationUnderstanding the Confessions A Brief Statement of Faith
Understanding the Confessions A Brief Statement of Faith A BRIEF STATEMENT OF FAITH AT A TIME OF MERGING 1983 Historical Context and Purpose Intended to be a concise summary of the Reformed tradition that
More information