Adventurous Living - The Meadow Springs Community Church Podcast

THE PLAN FULFILLED - April 5, 2009

2009-04-06T10:29:00.000-07:00

Out of divine necessity Jesus fulfills the prophecies and experiences all that he had been speaking of. Luke 22:39-23:56, Jerry Beres delivers "The Plan Fulfilled".

A MEAL TO REMEMBER - March 29, 2009

2009-03-30T13:00:00.000-07:00

Gathering and eating together is a common theme in the book of Luke. When Jesus and His disciples gathered around the table for the Last Supper, it was "A Meal To Remember". Listen to Dr. Curtis and the passages of Luke 22:1-38 as Jesus helped prepare His disciples in how to deal with His absence.

A NEW DAY DAWNING - March 22, 2009

2009-03-23T11:47:00.000-07:00

There is a new day dawning. Hear God prompt you to live each day for him with a focus on the life He intends for you. Pastor Jerry Beres takes us through Luke 19:28-21:38.

WITNESSING THE IMPOSSIBLE - March 15, 2009

2009-03-16T12:08:00.000-07:00

The story of Zacchaeus is most often used for kids church, but it has so much to say to all of us. Listen to "Witnessing the Impossible" as Dr. Curtis continues on in our journey in the book of Luke through the life of Jesus.

AS THE PLOT THICKENS - March 8, 2009

2009-03-09T13:38:00.000-07:00

As we leave the season of epiphany and are now in the season of lent we encounter a turning point in the life of Christ. Guest speaker Mike Allison takes us through Luke 18:31-34 as the plot thickens.

ONE THING YOU LACK - March 3, 2009

2009-03-03T11:18:00.000-08:00

Dr. Curtis delivers a "first person" perspective of the rich man from Luke 18-30. The rich man wanted to know how to get eternal life and thought that he had obeyed all of the commandments, but Jesus said "There is still one thing you lack".

MAKING THE IMPOSSIBLE, POSSIBLE - February 22, 2009

2009-02-23T12:09:00.000-08:00

Jerry Beres' sermon "Making the Impossible, Possible" takes us through Luke 17:1-37.

YOUR EXCUSE FOR BEING BORN - February 15, 2008

2009-02-18T10:50:00.000-08:00

Dr. Gene Curtis walks through Luke 14:25-35 with his sermon titled "Your Excuse For Being Born".

ARE YOU COMING TO THE PARTY? - February 8, 2009

2009-02-09T12:22:00.000-08:00

Guest Speaker Craig Hammond teaches on Luke 12:49-14:24. It is a message for all to hear, because we all are invited. Are you coming to the Party?

PRETENDING - February 1, 2009

2009-02-02T11:34:00.000-08:00

Sometimes when we watch movies we find ourselves amazed at the actor's ability to "take on" or become a certain character. They can be so convincing...so believable. We too can be convincing as we put on the different masks of our life. Dr. Gene Curtis unpacks Luke 12:1-12 in his sermon "Pretending".

Costly Joy - January 25, 2009

2009-01-26T11:25:00.000-08:00

Walk through Luke 9:51-10:24 with Pastor Jerry Beres and hear of the "Costly Joy" of serving and obeying the call that Jesus has placed on you and your family.

Too Big To Tell - January 18, 2009

2009-01-19T11:56:00.000-08:00

Our Luke series continues with "Too Big To Tell". Dr. Gene Curtis speaks on Luke 9:28-36.

Too Much On Your Plate? - January 11, 2009

2009-01-12T11:18:00.000-08:00

Martha, Martha...hear this message. Without you nothing would get done, but let's keep what needs to get done simple. This is a great message for 2009 by Dr. Gene Curtis reminding us to stop and let God serve and minister to us first before we put too much on our plate.

The Enchev Sharing - January 4, 2009

2009-01-08T12:50:00.000-08:00

Vesselin and Magdalena Enchev are pastors in Bulgaria that Meadow Springs supports through Seed Sowers International. They shared about their story, their ministry and their vision for what they are trusting God for in 2009. Their testimony will both challenge you and bless you.

A Christmas Carol - December 28, 2008

2009-01-07T13:51:00.001-08:00

Dr. Gene Curtis uses a "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens to deliver a message on Christ, His power, and the potential to change because of Him.

Great Expectations - December 7, 2008

2008-12-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

Our Dickens Christmas series begins with Dr. Curtis and a look at Great Expectations.

It Is Well With My Soul - November 30, 2008

2008-12-04T15:05:00.000-08:00

In Pastor Jerry Beres' message he used the hymn by Horatio G. Spafford, It is Well With my Soul. Mr. Spafford experienced great loss in the death of his five children and the words he penned speak of a continued faith to trust the Lord in the midst of life's trials. On Sunday Pastor Beres walked us through one verse at a time and then as a congregation we sang that verse. Due to some technical difficulties, the singing of each verse had to be cut out of the podcast.

Jesus and the Stock Market - November 23, 2008

2008-11-24T11:36:00.000-08:00

During this time of economic struggle, it is important to beware of the greed that can seep into our lives. Where do we place our treasure? Listen to "Jesus and the Stock Market" delivered by Dr. Curtis out of Luke 12:13-34.

Desperate Faith - November 16, 2008

2008-11-17T11:58:00.000-08:00

Two stories from Luke 8:40-56 told in a new way...the same stories...but new. Two different people living very different lives meet Jesus in a time of Desperate Faith.

Extreme Power Plus - November 9, 2008

2008-11-10T13:24:00.000-08:00

Pastor Jerry Beres looks at the text Luke 8:26-39 and reminds of the Extreme Power Plus that is found in our Lord Jesus Christ.

What to do When the Ship is Going Down - November 2, 2008

2008-11-03T10:47:00.000-08:00

The Storm was too great and the fishermen were scared. It was more than they could handle. Do you know what to do when the ship is going down? Dr. Gene Curtis uses Luke 8:22-25 to teach about faith.

Be Careful How You Listen - October 26, 2008

2008-10-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

Be Careful How You Listen. Dr. Gene Curtis and Luke 8:1-21.

Let God Out of Your Box - October 19, 2008

2008-10-20T11:17:00.000-07:00

We can often question God's ways and why things happen the way they do. Let God out of your box and stand firm in the knowledge of who He is. Pastor Jerry Beres takes us through Luke 7:11-50.

The Mark of a Servant - October 12, 2008

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Pastor Josh Yates challenges us to look deeper into our roles as servants as Jesus is Lord. What does the mark of a servant look like?

Amazing Faith, How Sweet the Sound - October 5, 2008

2008-10-07T11:51:00.000-07:00

"Amazing Faith, How Sweet the Sound" delivered by Dr. Gene Curtis from Luke 7:1-10. Receive a compliment from Jesus Christ about believing without seeing.

The Growth Zone - September 28, 2008

2008-10-01T10:53:00.000-07:00

The Growth Zone...a place where we face risk or challenge of any kind. Hear stories from the Meadow Springs congregation about the adventure of following Jesus Christ.

Show the Love - September 21, 2008

2008-09-23T12:38:00.000-07:00

The call to "Show the Love" to people outside the church AND to people within our own MSCC congregation.

The Dangers of the Day - September 14, 2008

2008-09-16T10:03:00.000-07:00

Psalm 5 is the morning prayer that is paired with the evening prayer of Psalm 4. Dr. Gene Curtis weaves us through David's model of praying over "The Dangers of the Day" and laying his day before the Lord as a sacrifice.

How to Get a Good Night's Sleep - September 7, 2008

2008-09-08T12:18:00.000-07:00

Prayer...it really is "How to Get a Good Night's Sleep". Dr. Gene Curtis walks us through the evening prayer model of Psalm 4.

Congregational Sharing - August 31, 2008

2008-09-03T12:20:00.000-07:00

What is God asking you to Trust Him For? Listen to stories from the MSCC family about God's faithfulness in times of need and what He is teaching in those moments.

Lifestyle Christianity - August 24, 2008

2008-08-25T12:58:00.000-07:00

Daniel Griffiths from Blanket Coverage challenges us with "Lifestyle Christianity". Let's get out there and love our neighbors!

The Meaning of Greatness - August 17, 2008

2008-08-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

What is the meaning of greatness? In Luke 9:46-50 we read of the disciples struggle to see what greatness is in the Kingdom of God. This struggle is relevant today as we deal daily with the primary obstacles of "kingdom greatness", pride and envy. Dr. Daniel Lockwood walks us through the teaching of Jesus Christ as he helps his disciples to see "The Meaning of Greatness".

The Role of Prayer in Community Care - August 10, 2008

2008-08-11T11:59:00.000-07:00

Continuing our August series, "If you want to be great...", Mike Higgs director of the Portland Youth Foundation and founder of LINC Ministries spoke to us on The Role of Prayer in Community Care.

"Living in the Real World, Monday thru Saturday" - August 3, 2008

2008-08-05T15:41:00.000-07:00

Mike Brantley, Church Resourse Ministries (CRM) director living in and ministering to New Orleans gave an inspiring message to prompt people who are '>"Living in the Real World, Monday thru Saturday" to be looking around in their own sphere and sharing the love of Jesus right where they are.

Missions Sharing - July 13, 2008

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This Missions Sharing Sunday includes the experiences of our youth/adult missions trip to a remote Canadian island, ministering to a First Nations tribe there, as well as, a mother/daughter team's trip to Egypt and Israel.

The Sermon on the Plain - July 20, 2008

2008-07-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

"The Sermon on the Plain" by guest speaker Skip Hansen. Due to some technical difficulties during the service there are about two minutes missing from the middle of the sermon.

Following Jesus - July 6, 2008

2008-07-08T11:55:00.000-07:00

Jesus' disciple Matthew, tells of when he began "Following Jesus". Listen to pastor Gene Curtis play this character and give the message in first person.

Facing the Opposition - June 29, 2008

2008-06-30T12:07:00.000-07:00

Jesus, "Facing the Opposition", reveals to the Pharisees their rigidity in keeping the Law, thus keeping people from Jesus. Some things are more like "guidelines". Pastor Gene Curtis speaks from Luke 5:17-6:11.

He Touched Me - June 22, 2008

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I walked away from my colony. I didn't know for sure that He would choose to heal me, but I knew He had the power. I asked Him to heal my leprosy and "He Touched Me." Pastor Jerry Beres delivers a message about the leper in Luke 5:12-16.

Unstoppable - June 15, 2008

2008-06-16T11:42:00.000-07:00

Guest Speaker Brad Butcher gave us a "kick-off" for our Season of Service. Let the story of the prodigal son help you to see the Lord's "Unstoppable" purpose.

Let's Go Fishing - June 8, 2008

2008-06-11T10:22:00.000-07:00

What started as a simple request by Jesus, turned into discovering the purpose for their lives. Hey...Let's go fishing. Pastor Jerry Beres takes us through Luke 5:1-11.

Walking Away From Success - June 1, 2008

2008-06-02T12:45:00.000-07:00

As we look in the Bible and read the stories do we sometimes think we missed out on the "good stuff"? By "Walking Away From Success" in the city of Capernaum, Jesus has allowed us to experience the "good stuff"...The really "good stuff".

Home Town Hero?

2008-05-27T13:03:00.000-07:00

Home Town Hero? Jesus was not interested in this "title" when preaching in Nazareth. His concern is the World...what do you care about? Pastor Gene Curtis teaching Luke 4:14-30.

Deborah - You're Hired

2008-05-19T13:08:00.000-07:00

Hear our special guest, Adrienne Ochs, talk about Judge Deborah and her great display of leadership principles that we can use in our own worklife. If the "trumpster" himself were to meet up with her he would say, "Deborah, you're hired!"

The Voices of Experience

2008-05-12T13:41:00.000-07:00

Listen to "the voices of experience" tell of their struggles and successes of motherhood. Meadow Springs "seasoned mom's" shared their hearts through video interviews as Pastor Jerry Beres encouraged us in the knowledge that as women, we too have stamped on us the image of God and thus the ability to mother and nurture.

Showdown in the Desert

2008-05-05T11:12:00.000-07:00

What was Jesus' temptation really all about? Come to a place of awe as Dr. Gene Curtis walks us through the famous "Showdown in the Desert" in Luke chapter 4.

Have You Heard God's Voice? - April 27, 2008

2008-04-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

"Have you heard God's voice? " Pastor Jerry Beres speaks a message of the empowerment received when we stop to listen to the voice of our Lord.

A Voice in the Desert - April 20, 2008

2008-04-21T13:30:00.000-07:00

"A Voice in the Desert" , a continuation of our Luke series delivered by Pastor Gene Curtis.

Jesus' Confirmation - April 13, 2008

2008-04-14T11:24:00.000-07:00

You think you have them for 18+ years - the day they were born until they leave the nest. In reality, our children are gifts from God, from day one, to be given back to Him. We want our kids to come to a personal faith in Jesus - "Jesus' Confirmation" in the book of Luke displays that even He, in His youth, was slowly pulling away from his parents and following the path that was meant for Him.

Another Look At Jesus - April 6, 2008

2008-04-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

Taking "Another Look At Jesus" might be difficult if you have any preconceived notions about Him. Do you think He was a good teacher? A servant? Or do you believe He was the Son of God and also God Himself? We often are hesitant to think in ways other than how we were taught.
What are some other ways we can look at Jesus?

The Foolishness of God - March 30, 2008

2008-03-31T11:55:00.000-07:00

Sounds like a description based upon little or no knowledge of God. How could the God and Creator of the universe be foolish? He's not. "The Foolishness of God" - that phrase is not used to describe someone who acts on a whim or without thought, but to display sovereignty - a knowledge beyond our conprehension - over all the things, whether good or bad, that happen in this world.

In My Place - March 23, 2008

2008-03-24T10:13:00.000-07:00

A truly unimaginable gift - that is the reality of Easter. God turned away from His only Son Jesus, if only for a moment, and He placed on Him the sins of humanity. Why, you ask? Say to yourself, "In My Place". That's where Jesus died to provide a way for us to live in a right relationship with God the Father.

Bad Friday - March 16, 2008

2008-03-17T11:39:00.000-07:00

An eye witness account of "Bad Friday" and how the crucifixion of Jesus took one Centurion soldier to the depths of despair.

The Suffering Servant's Victory - March 9, 2008

2008-03-10T11:09:00.000-07:00

Good friends will usually describe you to others in a flattering manner ie. she's generous, kind, thoughtful. What if your friend described you to someone as a cheat, a liar and an adulterer? That image would not be a good one. "The Suffering Servant's Victory" allows Jesus to stand before God the Father and tell Him of our wickedness, yet still we are seen as holy and blameless.

WorkLife: Am I Wasting My Time? - March 2, 2008

2008-03-03T14:51:00.000-08:00

The daily grind - is this how you view your work? Is it all for nothing...does my work really matter? Consider a work day full of everything unpleasant - the kids are being naughty, your boss yelled at you and now you'll not be home for dinner. My "WorkLife: Am I Wasting My Time?" you ask. The Lord will give you all the strength and wisdom you need - simply allow Him to carry you like He would a tired child.

WorkLife : Is Work a 4-letter Word? - February 24, 2008

2008-02-25T11:59:00.000-08:00

Kids are naturally curious about words, especially the "bad" ones. A word is thought of as bad because someone, somewhere has attached to it a negative definition. It didn't start out being bad. When considering our "WorkLife: Is Work a 4-letter Word?", we must remember that work is good and was established by God. Do we do everything, even work, for the glory of God?

WorkLife: What Is A Woman's Work? - February 17, 2008

2008-02-19T11:27:00.000-08:00

The concept of work and exactly what it is can be somewhat of an enigma. Does work happen during the day, the evening, on weekends? Consider this: "WorkLife: What Is A Woman's Work?" According to Proverbs 31, it's all of the above. The saying about a woman's work never being done might have a more than a bit of truth to it.

WorkLife: What's Love Got To Do With It?- February 10, 2008

2008-02-11T11:20:00.000-08:00

Erase all visions of silver sequins and lame' from your mind because this is the question: "WorkLife: What's Love Got To Do With It?" I'm not sure what answer Tina Turner was looking for, but in our work life, love has got everything to do with it! Showing love for God and for our neighbor are the 2 greatest commandments - do we obey them at work? Do we work with excellence and honesty? Do we use our work place to know and love our neighbors?

Worklife: What's God got to do with it? - February 3, 2008

2008-02-04T11:23:00.000-08:00

We all work. Whether in or away from the home, by God's design, work was good and pleasing. However, our fallen world has made it into something else entirely. When we ask the question about our "Worklife: What's God got to do with it?", we might answer 'nothing' because our work is not what we'd envisioned. What might it be about your current work that is pleasing to God?

Created in Love, Created with Value - January 27, 2008

2008-01-28T12:55:00.000-08:00

The sanctity of a human life has been progressively devalued over the last decades. Unplanned pregnancies, children born with mental and physical disabilities - if a person does not fit into what society would label normal, that person somehow becomes less that desirable. However, in God's sight, every life was "Created in Love, Created with Value"- a life designed by Him to affect others.

What is Truth? - January 20, 2008

2008-01-22T11:02:00.000-08:00

When we ask the question "What is Truth?", what is the answer? Is truth found in literature? Maybe. Is it found in media and advertising? Hardly. The term truth is very subjective in today's culture - a person believes something to be true, therefore it is. Not so in God's truth, the Bible.

2008: Looking Ahead

2008-01-15T09:24:00.000-08:00

Figuring out what to do next can be exciting. Not the little things like in your morning routine where teeth brushing always follows breakfast, but next as in making plans for an entire new year. What will this year hold? As we dive into "2008: Looking Ahead" is exciting for many, fearful for some. Take time to ask what God would have for you this new year - oh, the wonderful places we'll go!

Enemy of the State - January 6, 2008

2008-01-08T09:21:00.000-08:00

Action/suspense movies go something like this: innocent man is pursued for something he didn't do and is ultimately vindicated or guilty man is pursued and is finally caught and brought to justice. The story of Jesus' birth is marked by suspense - when, where and finally, what? What will it mean? Even at birth, baby Jesus was considered an "Enemy of the State" and was relentlessly pursued until He finally paid the ultimate price.

Waiting - December 30, 2007

2008-01-02T10:49:00.000-08:00

Whether its for traffic, holidays or a good meal - it seems we are always "Waiting." Some do it better than others - some can't imagine waiting and some wait forever. What makes something worth waiting for?

At the Gates of Bethlehem - December 23, 2007

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Two similar stories occurring 1000 years apart. Two women trusting God's promise for their lives and two men following God's command despite the hardship it might bring. "At the Gates of Bethlehem" there is love, loyalty and a committment to following God.

Ruth: Loyal Love Expressed - December 16, 2007

2007-12-19T09:17:00.000-08:00

The story of Ruth and Naomi would not sell very many magazines at a present day magazine stand. No hype, no scandal - just ordinary women doing ordinary things that God uses in very extraordinary ways. "Ruth: Loyal Love Expressed" is just such a story. Ruth turns away from what's comfortable toward an unknown and unscripted future with only the promises of God on which to lean.

Ruth: An Ordinary Story

2007-12-10T10:57:00.000-08:00

Everyone has a story. Air travelers can divulge their life stories to one another in the exact time it takes to arrive at their destination. Some seem too good to be true and others, well, ordinary. "Ruth: An Ordinary Story" is one of the latter, but one that is no less significant than the story of a king.

The Last Word - December 2, 2007

2007-12-03T11:54:00.000-08:00

Having "The Last Word" is not necessarily a good thing - at least that was the case in my house growing up. Though witty closing remarks are not always appreciated, some are life changing and full of hope.

Thanks For Giving - November 26, 2007

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The Thanksgiving holiday is a time for friends, family and being thankful for all the blessings in our lives. Our church, more of a family really, used this Thanksgiving holiday to show their appreciation and say "Thanks For Giving" to all who give, in their own unique way, to build up and support and show love to our church family.

I Am Making Everything New - November 18, 2007

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A new bike, a new outfit, a new car - we love new things. But everything that starts out new eventually gets old - or does it? "I Am Making Everything New" - a promise from God. A promise that all sources of pain and suffering will be replaced with fullness, joy and a face-to-face relationship with Jesus in the new heaven and the new earth.

The End Times Puzzle - November 11, 2007

2007-11-14T10:59:00.000-08:00

Kids always lose pieces from their cardboard or wooden puzzles. It's frustrating to them because the picture isn't quite complete - it doesn't look right. The book of Daniel provides a framework into which we can fit all the scattered, prophetic pieces of "The End Times Puzzle."

The Master's Mission - November 4, 2007

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The work happening on Copper Island, B.C. is exciting. Ray Badgero, director of this camp and educational center, ministers to countless native American and native Canadian families each year. These people hear about the gospel - they see it in action. "The Master's Mission" teaches the word of God by living the life of Jesus Christ.

The World's Last Day - October 28, 2007

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I have signed at least a dozen guest books - events I went to and had a good time, but I am reasonably sure those people don't remember me. They had other things on their mind. Somehow, through the mess that is the history of the world, God remembered us - thought we were worth it - and offered us a Savior. On "The World's Last Day", will your name be entered in the only guest book that really matters?

The Jesus You Haven't Met - October 21, 2007

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Everyone enjoys rooting for the good guy - the one who will eventually beat overwhelming odds and emerge victorious. But first, a battle ensues and he must prove himself the victor. Yes, that makes for a good story, but what if he could skip the battle part? What if he just got to be the winner? "The Jesus You Haven't Met" is this very hero.

Unbroken Hallelujah - October 14, 2007

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A chorus of "Unbroken Hallelujah" is the eternal cry of His people and of the angels. Even though we are this side of heaven and still have to endure the things of earth, our continual praise can be heard in our daily activities and our relationships - the things which are pleasing in His sight.

Lament for the City of Man - October 7, 2007

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Things are in shambles and life has become unbearable. In a very short time, the magic spell of prosperity has been broken and the people are left with nothing. Now they are crying out in a "Lament for the City of Man" - a city they have created apart from God. So now what? How do we, in today's world, conquer the spell of materialism and the desire for things that cannot be stored up in heaven?

Separation Anxiety - September 30, 2007

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Remember the saying about a tree falling in the middle of the forest but no one saw or heard it? Did it still fall? We see evidence - forest floors littered with downed trees. So the question is this: If I feel lonely, unloved and generally miserable, does God still love me? Does He have His best in store for me? The answer is a resounding yes because He chose us - chose us to live in relationship with Him and He will never leave us. We are His creation, His family and we need not suffer any "Separation Anxiety."

The Great Prostitute - September 23, 2007

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Satan is defeated and he knows it. He's known it since God cast him out of heaven. He'll try every trick in the book to lure souls away from Christ. "The Great Prostitute" is, at the very core, that lure - deception itself disguised as a beautiful, irresistable woman dressed in the finest robes and jewels. She may look desirable from afar, but her true nature is that of death and destruction.

Hardened Hearts - September 16, 2007

2007-09-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

NO is probably every child's first word. It's a way to assert their own will. As children get older, the word NO can come in handy when confronted with destructive behaviors. There is one instance, however, when the word NO is the wrong response. When God invites us to Himself, to be in relationship with Him, we should shout YES. If we continually turn away from God, our "Hardened Hearts" will be beyond repair and eternally separated from Him.

9/11 and The Lamb - September 9, 2007

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What do "9/11 and The Lamb" have to do with each other? Everything, in fact. After September 11, 2001 there was a desperate cry for God and the question was where did He fit into such an evil world. But there is good news! God, seated in the most holy of places, sent His son Jesus to die and in Christ's resurrection has defeated even the most unimaginable evil.

Loving Monday - September 2, 2007

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Labor Day is a national holiday - it marks the time for kids to go back to school, a super sale at the big department store and the idea that work is a fundamental part of our society. But do we really want to celebrate work? It depends on how you look at it - do we work to pay for the basic needs life or is it something else? "Loving Monday" is the idea that because God created work, it can be so much more than punching a time clock.

When Pain Hits Home - August 26, 2007

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What happens "When Pain Hits Home?" What do you do when trouble sneaks in the back door or maybe even barges in the front? Forgiveness and reconciliation are concepts originated by God Himself and are perfected only in the midst of deep hurt and pain.

When God Goes Silent - August 19, 2007

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People pray some strange prayers in some strange places. Fortunately, God doesn't care about that - He just listens. He hears every prayer. But what happens if He doesn't answer the prayer? Why wouldn't God want for us what we want for ourselves? "When God Goes Silent" we should examine our lives, looking for active sin and questionable motives. The Bible is full of unanswered prayers simply because God's ways are not our ways.

God's Voice of Comfort - August 12, 2007

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I once saw Tony Bennett in the Chicago airport. He is a big name in the music business, yet no one seemed to recognize him. Jesus is the name in the salvation business and when the people on the road outside of Jerusalem were not able to recognize him as the source of their despair, Jesus listened to them talk about the terrible events occurring just days before. In times of overwhelming sadness and despair, "God's Voice of Comfort" may not be His words at all, but your own.

The Story of Namaan - August 5, 2007

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A life of privilege and a position of power - that is "The Story of Namaan." But what happens when all of that is in jeopardy? Look around at those closest to you. How many are going through, or have in the past endured, great tragedy? The worst of times does not operate on a M-F, 8-5 schedule. Be assured, tragedy finds us but in the midst of those times we can TRY.

The Not-So-Secret Weapon of Warfare - July 22, 2007

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All the battles ever fought in all of history have one thing in common - they used weapons to try and secure a victory. Swords, shields and catapolts are some that come to mind, but what about the spiritual battle that has been waged against humans? "The Not-So-Secret Weapon of Warfare" is the strongest tool we have in our battle against evil.

Staying True in the Face of Evil - July 15, 2007

2007-07-16T11:25:00.000-07:00

There is evil in this world. It is unavoidable just like death and taxes. Satan uses every trick in the book to distract us from the things of God - he knows he's going down and he wants to take with him as many as he can. "Staying True in the Face of Evil" takes guts and as much as Satan deceives and destroys, believers in Christ stand firm in the knowledge and character of God.

Rules of Engagement - July 8, 2007

2007-07-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

There are some old song lyrics that go like this - 'The weapons of our warfare are not of this world, they are mighty through God.' The "Rules of Engagement" are different for followers of Christ. We wait. We pray. We act justly and in ways that let others know that Satan has already been defeated, even though all evidence may be to the contrary.

See No Evil - July 1, 2007

2007-07-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

"See No Evil" - there's a nice idea. Most days you don't have to look further than the front page of the paper to see all the bad news and bad people you can stomach. Evil is not new, but what does it really look like? The face of evil is not always the 3-headed green monster you remember from childhood. Satan is evil and purposes to distract us from God - to imitate what God has created.

The Story Behind The Story - June 24, 2007

2007-06-27T10:21:00.000-07:00

It happens all the time. Someone tells a story and nobody gets it. They haven't heard the details - "The Story Behind The Story." The world in it's current state of despair is part of that story. Even though Satan has experienced the ultimate defeat at the hands of Christ, we are still experiencing his rage. Be encouraged, however, because God has the final victory and the redemption of this world is sure.

Real Men, Real Dads - June 17, 2007

2007-06-18T12:04:00.000-07:00

Do as I say, not as I do. People, that is a desperate phrase that may lead to control for a moment, but just wait...havoc will ensue. "Real Men, Real Dads" are guys dedicated to teaching this generation of boys how to be men - real men that seek after God.

The Great Drama - June 10, 2007

2007-06-11T11:25:00.000-07:00

"The Great Drama" of Revelation continues to unfold and things are getting serious - the world is in bad shape. The kingdom of God is coming and the question remains - How many chances are we gonna get? What will it take for those who are lost to turn to Him?

The Great Commission - June 3, 2007

2007-06-04T10:39:00.000-07:00

What does the phrase "The Great Commission" mean? Throughout history, Christians have done everything from foreign missions work to crazy tent revivals hoping to point people to Jesus. But what about those people who still turn away from God? Do they realize what eternity, totally separated from Him, will be like? Even though our words may fall on deaf ears and rejection may leave a sour taste in our mouths, we are to continue to warn those who do not believe.

The Dark Side - May 27, 2007

2007-05-29T10:52:00.000-07:00

There is a grape juice stain on the carpet, little Suzie is hiding under the kitchen table and as far as you know, the dog doesn't drink grape juice. Hmmm. There it is - "The Dark Side." We all have one and it rears it's ugly head as the sin in our lives. In Revelation 9, the account of what will be God's judgement upon the earth continues. Those who are sealed are safe, but even for those in the midst of unimagineable dispair, God says there is still a way. But will they turn away from their dark side of stubborness and rebellion to embrace the Savior?

Sharing - May 20, 2007

2007-05-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

There's something wonderful about standing up and "Sharing" out loud what you have seen God do in your life and in the lives of others. Voices praising God and thanking Him for all His blessings. But what if seems there isn't much to be thankful for? Praise Him every season of your soul...for He has plans to prosper and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Finally, Justice - May 13, 2007

2007-05-14T10:13:00.000-07:00

There isn't anyone who is immune to the difficulties of life - we live in an world full of hurt, depravity and often, just plain unfairness. To deal, we dig down into the pit that is our human nature and we want revenge! Whoever wronged us, we want to make them pay! However terrible a punishment we could imagine, "Finally, Justice" will be His.

Safe and Secure - May 6, 2007

2007-05-07T11:05:00.000-07:00

Ever had a plan for the week that, by Tuesday, had gone out the window? Weekly schedules and ten year plans are good, but they sometimes fail. God's plan for us - that we would come to know and trust Him - guarantees a "Safe and Secure" eternity with Him in heaven.

Pale Rider - April 29, 2007

2007-05-01T09:10:00.000-07:00

Pestilence, Slaughter, Desolation and Death - they are known in film and literature as the four horsemen of the apocalypse. In Revelation 6, the "Pale Rider" appears, bringing death and destruction, and the question is this - How long, Lord, until You bring judgement? When will you come back and dispense justice on those who promulgate evil?

The Furniture of the Mind - April 22, 2007

2007-04-23T12:10:00.000-07:00

What is "The Furniture of the Mind" ? What images have made themselves at home in your head? Are they advertising logos or slogans meant to thrill and fulfill? The book of Revelation is full of images that do indeed thrill, but what do they mean? What do they symbolize and why is it important?

Who Do You Trust? - April 15, 2007

2007-04-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

"Who Do You Trust?" when you want the truth? When it comes from family and friends, the truth can sometimes be not-so-truthful. There is one place, however, where the truth is never in question - inside God's word. The Bible acts as our life's roadmap and the direction we travel should be toward Jesus and a relationship with Him.