Wed, 08 Apr 2026 21:10:19 -0400WeeblyWed, 08 Apr 2026 19:03:46 GMThttp://www.milanchurchofchrist.com/dennis-articles/supply-linesWhen Supply Lines Are Cut
In recent days, much attention has been given to the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but vital passage through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply flows. With tensions rising and the threat of disruption looming, the potential impact is clear—when supply lines are cut, people feel it quickly. Prices rise, anxiety increases, and stability is shaken.
This situation provides a sobering spiritual parallel.
Just as nations depend on steady physical supply lines, Christians depend on consistent spiritual nourishment. Jesus declared, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). Yet the devil works tirelessly to disrupt that supply.
He does not always attack directly. Instead, he uses subtle means:

• Busyness to crowd out time in God’s Word
• Discouragement to weaken our desire to pray
• Distractions to shift our focus from eternal things to temporary concerns
• Sin to create distance between us and God

If he can cut off or curb the flow, he knows spiritual weakness will follow.
Consider how easy it is for a Christian to go days without meaningful prayer, without serious Bible study, or without fellowship that strengthens the soul. At first, the effects may appear minor—but over time, the consequences are significant. Just like a disrupted oil supply eventually affects an entire nation, a disrupted spiritual supply affects the entire life.
The solution is vigilance.
We must guard our spiritual supply lines:

• Prioritize daily time with God
• Stay connected to faithful brethren
• Remain grounded in Scripture

Let us never allow the enemy to cut us off from what we need most. For when our spiritual supply is strong, our faith is steady, our hope is secure, and our lives bring glory to God.
Building Faith that Sticks in 2026!
Dennis
]]>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 18:54:13 GMThttp://www.milanchurchofchrist.com/dennis-articles/do-you-appreciate-the-churchDo You Appreciate the Church?

“And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.” Eph 1:22-23
 
I can't help but wonder if some Christians take the Lord's church for granted. Doing so, however, is a mistake! In Paul's letters to churches in Rome, Corinth, Colossi and Philippi, he expressed deep gratitude for each congregation. He was thankful for their faithfulness, fellowship and spiritual growth. Despite the fact none of these churches were perfect, Paul genuinely appreciated each one.
 
Do we truly appreciate the church? Are we thankful for our local congregation? Do we feel honored to be members? Do we demonstrate our appreciation by regular attendance, involvement and support?
 
In case you are wondering, there are MANY reasons to be thankful for the church:
 
· Jesus Christ died for the church - Eph. 5:24-25.
 
· Jesus purchased the church with His Blood - Acts 20:28.
 
· Jesus Christ is the Head of the church – Eph. 1:22.
 
· The church is the body of Christ – 1 Cor. 12:27
 
· The church is our spiritual family – Eph. 2:19.
 
· God has given us gifts to benefit the church - Eph. 4:11-12.
 
· The church is where we partake of the Lord’s supper – Act 20:7, 1 Cor. 11:26.
 
· The church is where we rejoice and weep together – Rom 12:15.
 
· The church is where we confess and pray for one another – Jam. 5:16.
 
· The church is where we bear one another's burdens - Gal. 6:2.
 
· The church gives us the opportunity to give & receive blessings – 2 Cor. 9:6-8.
 
Personally speaking, I am truly honored to be a part of the Lord's Church in Milan! How about you?
 
 
Building Faith that Sticks in 2026!
 
 
Dennis]]>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 18:52:27 GMThttp://www.milanchurchofchrist.com/dennis-articles/obituary-for-jesus-christOBITUARY FOR JESUS CHRIST


Jesus of Nazareth, age 33, alleged by some to be the Son of God, died Friday on Mount Calvary, just outside of Jerusalem. Following an informal trial by Jewish leaders, He was presented to Governor Pilate for official pronouncement of guilt and sentencing. Following lengthy deliberation in front of a hostile crowd, Pilate grudgingly bound Jesus over for execution by means of crucifixion.


Prior to reaching Golgotha Jesus was subjected to verbal and physical abuse, yet never threatened His tormentors. Nor did he protest while His hands and feet were nailed to the cross. Despite intense agony, this unique Man surprisingly asked God to forgive His accusers and persecutors. 


He lasted six hours, remarkable considering His depleted physical condition. However, He purportedly succumbed to heart failure, induced by severe physical trauma, loss of blood, asphyxiation and shock. 


Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea. He was the assumed* son of Joseph - a carpenter from Nazareth, and Mary. (*He claimed that God was His Father.) He is survived by His mother, several brothers and sisters, and a small number of disciples.


During the last 3 years of his life, Jesus was an itinerant preacher, promoting His Kingdom and salvation for its citizens. He allegedly healed thousands of people. Some claim that He also calmed storms, walked on water and raised numerous people from the dead.


Following His death, Jesus was buried in a grave donated by Joseph of Arimathea. Due to Jesus’ prior claims that He would rise from His grave, Jewish leaders took pains to make His grave secure. A huge stone with a Roman seal blocked the entrance, and soldiers guarded the area. 


UPDATE - The third day following Jesus’ death, His tomb was found EMPTY. Although several theories have been proposed, no reasonable explanation has been established, except for Jesus' claim that He would rise from the grave. His disciples insist that they have seen Him alive, and that He will return to take His followers to heaven. The evidence is sufficiently compelling that millions of people living today believe that Jesus still lives and will come again.


“This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner..."  (Acts 1:11)


Building Faith that Sticks in 2026!
 
Dennis]]>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 19:51:11 GMThttp://www.milanchurchofchrist.com/dennis-articles/spring-is-comingSpring Reminders from God
Even though the calendar says spring has arrived, those of us in Michigan know better than to pack away the winter coats too quickly. One day may bring sunshine and 70-degree warmth, and the next day may bring sleet or even snow. Yet despite these ups and downs, we all know something encouraging: true spring, God willing, is coming.
Each year God gives us this beautiful reminder through the seasons. Winter may seem long and cold, but it never lasts forever. Eventually the snow melts, the grass begins to turn green, flowers push through the soil, and trees once again fill with leaves. The world awakens with new life.
The changing of seasons reminds us of the faithfulness of God. From the very beginning the Lord promised that the natural order of the world would continue. In Genesis 8:22 we read: “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.”
Springtime is also a reminder of hope. Just as life returns to the earth after the dormancy of winter, God has promised new life to those who belong to Him. The resurrection of Jesus Christ assures us that life triumphs over death and that a greater “springtime” awaits God’s people.
As we note the early signs of spring—longer days, warmer temps, and the first signs of green—let them remind us not only of the beauty of God’s creation, but also of the faithfulness of the Creator Himself.
And perhaps spring can encourage us spiritually as well. Just as gardens require care and attention to grow, our faith also grows when it is nurtured. Through prayer, Bible study, worship, and fellowship with fellow Christians, our spiritual lives can flourish.
So, the next time the weather swings from sunshine to snow, don’t be discouraged. Spring is on the way—and every new season reminds us again that God is faithful.
Building Faith that Sticks in 2026!
Dennis]]>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 19:49:25 GMThttp://www.milanchurchofchrist.com/dennis-articles/union-city-tornadoLearning from the Union City Tornado
In just a few terrifying moments, everything can change. On March 6, a powerful tornado tore through the area around Union City, Michigan. Winds near 160 miles per hour destroyed homes, uprooted massive trees, toppled power lines, and left entire sections of the community in ruins. Tragically, several lives were lost and many others were injured. Families who began the day like any other suddenly found themselves facing unimaginable loss.
Events like this remind us how fragile life truly is.
Jesus once referred to a tragic accident in which eighteen people were killed when a tower collapsed. He asked, “Do you think they were worse sinners than all other men? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish” (Luke 13:4-5). His point was not that those victims were uniquely sinful, but that sudden tragedy reminds all of us to be spiritually prepared.
Storms like this also remind us how temporary material things really are. Homes, vehicles, possessions, and even things accumulated over a lifetime can disappear in seconds. Jesus warned about placing too much confidence in earthly treasures and encouraged us instead to “lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:19-20). The things of this world are uncertain, but our relationship with God is eternal.
At the same time, tragedies can bring out the best in people. Neighbors help neighbors. Volunteers clear debris. Communities rally around those who are hurting. Scripture encourages this very spirit when it says, “Bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). In times like these, Christians have a wonderful opportunity to show the love and compassion of Christ.
While we may never fully understand why disasters occur, we do know this: God remains our refuge and strength even in the storms of life (Psalm 46:1).
Our hearts and prayers go out to all those affected by this terrible tornado. And perhaps the greatest lesson we can take from it is this—life is uncertain, eternity is real, and there has never been a more important time than now to make sure we are right with God.
Building Faith that Sticks in 2026!
Dennis
]]>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:11:23 GMThttp://www.milanchurchofchrist.com/dennis-articles/no9807056WHEN GOD SAYS NO
.
“I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" (2 Co 12:8-9).
 
I asked God to say “Yes" to more of my prayers, but God said, "No." 
He said that saying “Yes” to more of my prayers might bring more harm than good.
 
I asked God to take away my weaknesses, but God said, "No." 
He said that my weaknesses keep me humble, and help me to depend on His grace.
 
I asked God to take away my pride, but God said, "No." 
He said that pride is not for Him to take away, it is for me to give up.
 
I asked God to make my handicapped girl whole, but God said, "No." 
He said that her spirit is already healthy; her body is only temporary. 
 
I asked God to grant me patience, but God said, "No." 
He said that patience comes from facing trials and setbacks with faith. 


I asked God to give me happiness, but God said, "No." 
He said that He gives me daily blessings, and that happiness results from being thankful. 
 
I asked God to spare me any more pain, but God said, "No." 
He said that pain reminds me that my body is temporary, and that this world is not my home. 
 
I asked God if He could love me even more, But God said, "No." 
He said that it would be impossible to demonstrate greater love than giving His Son to save me.
 
I asked God if I could be more like Him, and God said, "YES!" 
He said to keep reading His word and following in the steps of His Son!
 
Building Faith That Sticks in 2026!
 
Dennis
]]>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:09:44 GMThttp://www.milanchurchofchrist.com/dennis-articles/help-before-honkingHELP BEFORE HONKING
 
A woman struggled vainly to start her car after it stalled in traffic. An impatient man in the car behind her soon laid on his horn, as if the annoying blasts would coax her car to life. Exasperated by his rudeness, she finally walked back to his car and said, "I’ll make a deal with you. If you will try to start my car, I'll be happy to honk your horn!"
 
***************************************************
 
Tragically, most congregations possess members that are better known for honking than helping. Although most “honkers” have never have preached a sermon, taught a class, led a song, or served in a leadership role, they believe that they are “experts” on how it should be done. Although they rarely praise a job well done or propose a promising plan, they are quick to criticize those who are trying.
 
“Honkers” need to be aware of 3 important Bible admonitions.
 
1. “Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world…” (Phil 2:14-15).
 
2. “Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door” (James 5:9).
 
3. "Judge not, that you be not judged. for with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you” (Matt. 7:1-2).
 
***************************************************
 
Anyone driving a car will inevitably be honked at, but this should hardly ever happen in the Lord’s church. If you ever feel the need to “honk”, first try to encourage or help. Who knows? You may help a fellow Christian “restart” their faith or committment.
 
Building a Faith That Sticks in 2026!
 
Dennis
]]>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 23:20:36 GMThttp://www.milanchurchofchrist.com/dennis-articles/running-for-goldRunning for Gold!


Every few years, the world stops to watch athletes who have given their lives to preparation. Long before the TV and film crews arrive, they’ve spent years training in obscurity—early mornings, sore muscles, strict discipline, and countless sacrifices. Why? Because they want to compete at the highest level and bring home a gold medal.


The apostle Paul used this very picture when he wrote, “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it” (1 Corinthians 9:24).


Olympic athletes train for a medal that will one day tarnish. Christians, however, are running for a glorious crown that will never fade (1 Peter 5:4) and a magnificent home in heaven (John 14:2-3, 1 Pet 1:4).


The unswerving dedication and persistence of Olympic athletes challenges us to ask some candid questions:
·        How serious am I about the spiritual race?
·        Am I training my heart with God’s word and unceasing prayer?
·        Am I disciplining my life and habits for purity and godliness?
·        Am I running daily with my heavenly goal in mind—or just jogging along, easily distracted by earthly things?


We admire the unwavering commitment of athletic athletes. But may we also learn from their example to run our race with endurance, focus, and faith, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:1–2).


Building a Faith that Sticks in 2026!


Dennis
]]>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:52:48 GMThttp://www.milanchurchofchrist.com/dennis-articles/you-ask-and-do-no-receiveYou Ask and Do Not Receive…
 
In January 1971 the late Janis Joplin released a song with the following lyrics,
 
Oh Lord, won't you buy me a Mercedes Benz
My friends all drive Porsches, I must make amends
Worked hard all my lifetime, no help from my friends
So Lord, won't you buy me a Mercedes Benz.
 
Although popular with her fans, the song is a tragic parody of prayer, not too surprising from a singer involved in drugs, alcohol and promiscuity. When she died of a heroin overdose at the age of 27, she was still clutching a pack of cigarettes and a wad of money.
 
Even more tragic is the tendency of many people (including some Christians) to think of God as a genie, ready to grant virtually any request. But the God of the Bible opposes such thinking. James 4:3 states, “You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.” Asking God to bless us with a luxury home, expensive car, or a bigger bank account is a symptom of love for the world, which is NEVER good - 1 John 2:15-17. A desire for more “things” can lead us away from God and down the path of spiritual destruction. “Command those who are rich in this present age not….to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy” (1Ti 6:17).
 
So, how can we restrain our desires for “uncertain riches”?
·        We should remember that Jesus was poor and homeless, yet without complaint
(Matt. 8:20).
·        We should remember that God has chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith
and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him (Jas 2:5).
·        We can pray that God will help us to learn that contentment with godliness is great
gain (1 Tim. 6:6).
·        We can pray for God’s help in developing self-control (Gal. 5:22-23).
·        We must remember that we will carry nothing to the grave (1 Tim. 6:7).
·        We can pray that God will help us to be more generous in our giving (2 Cor. 9:6-
9).
·        We must remember that what we give (or do) to help others will result in eternal
treasures in heaven (Matt. 19:21-22).
 
Building Faith that Sticks in 2026!
 
Dennis
]]>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 22:35:31 GMThttp://www.milanchurchofchrist.com/dennis-articles/heaven-cant-wait1322412​Heaven CAN'T Wait!

You may remember the 1978 movie, "Heaven Can Wait", starring Warren Beatty. The plot centered around a professional quarterback who died prematurely. Instead of entering heaven, an arrangement was made whereby he was permitted to return to earth in someone else's body and live out his life.

An interesting plot, but with one conspicuous flaw. No one who steps one foot in heaven will ever want to return to Earth. Why?

* Heaven is God’s Dwelling Place – 2 Chron. 6:39.
* Jesus Christ is there – Col. 3:1.
* All the saints will be there - Rev. 7:15-17.
* Many mansions (dwellings) will be there John 14:2-3.
* There will be non-stop worship beyond description - Rev. 4:8.
* No temptations, trials or worries in heaven - Rev 21:27.
* No crime or wickedness in heaven - Matt. 6:20.
* No sadness or tears in Heaven - Isa. 60:20.
* No pain or sickness in heaven – Rev. 21:4.
* Our new bodies will not age or grow old in Heaven - 1 Cor. 15:52.
*Heaven will be beautiful beyond description - 1 Cor. 2:9.

I can hardly wait to get to heaven! How about you?

Building Faith that Sticks in 2026!

Dennis]]>