Honoring Those Who Served

“Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.” (Romans 13:7)

As Veterans Day approaches, our hearts should be filled with gratitude for the men and women who have worn the uniform of our nation’s armed forces. They have stood in harm’s way so that we might live in safety and freedom. Many have sacrificed years away from their families; some have given their very lives. Truly, we owe them a debt we can never fully repay.

The apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 13:7 that we are to “render… honor to whom honor” is due. While this passage speaks broadly of our duty toward those in authority, it also reminds us of a broader Christian principle: to give sincere respect and appreciation to those who serve others selflessly.

When we honor our veterans, we reflect the heart of Christ Himself, who said, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends” (John 15:13). As Christians, we should also remember that we, too, are soldiers — enlisted in the Lord’s army, fighting not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of evil (Eph  6:10–13).

May we express our heartfelt thanks to all who have served, while recommitting ourselves to faithful service in the cause of Christ, our Commander and King.

Be a light for Christ in 2025! 

Dennis

BE CAREFUL LITTLE TONGUE WHAT YOU SAY…
 
The wise man wrote, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue…” (Prov.18:21). He meant that the words we speak have both the power to heal or destroy.
 
The apostle Paul stressed that we should use our tongues to help or encourage others – “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers” (Eph. 4:29).
 
Conversely, James repeatedly warns us against using our tongues to hurt, demean or disgrace others - “Do not speak evil of one another, brethren. He who speaks evil of a brother and judges his brother, speaks evil of the law and judges the law” (James 4:11).
 
It will help immensely if we avoid beginning any sentence with the following:
 
·        “Did you hear what ________ did the other day?”
·        “I was shocked when I heard that ________ shops at Cannabis stores!”
·        “I think it’s terrible that ________ received another citation for speeding!”
·        “Just between us, _________ needs to bathe or shower more often.”
·        “Don’t tell anyone else, but I saw ________ purchase booze at Walmart yesterday.
·        “This may not be true, but I suspect that ________ may be in trouble with his parents again.”
·        “I probably shouldn’t say this, but ________ acted as if he had been drinking the other night.”
·        “Rumor has it that ________ is getting a divorce.”
·        “I would never have dreamed that ________ is a chain smoker!”
 
It is one thing to correct someone that is heading down the wrong path, but another thing to tell others about it.
 
“A talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter” (Pro 11:13).
 
Be a Light for Christ in 2025!
 
Dennis

What a Dark World Needs Most


“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden” — Matthew 5:14.
The world around us can often seem dark—dark with confusion, conflict, crime, and moral decay. But Jesus sent His followers as lights into that darkness. He didn’t say you should be the light; He said, “You are the light of the world”. That means wherever we go—in our homes, workplaces, schools, sports activities, shopping or communities--we manifest the glow of Christ when we care for, assist, serve or forgive others.
A small light can make a big difference. One candle can dispel the darkness of an entire room. Likewise, one Christian living faithfully can bring hope, clarity, and comfort to those around us who have lost their way. Remember—the intensity of our light depends on our connection to the true source--Jesus Christ. The closer we walk with Jesus, the brighter we shine.
Let each of us strive to reflect His light through kind words, honest living, and humble service. Let’s be the example that leads others to glorify our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16). The world doesn’t need any more darkness—it needs more light. Let’s each make it our mission this week to be a light for Christ in 2025 and beyond!
Be a Light for Christ in 2025
Dennis

Thank God for Our Teachers!
 
Every week, our Bible class teachers prepare lessons, pray over their students, and sow seeds of God’s Word into hearts young and old. Sometimes their efforts may go unnoticed, but heaven surely sees.
 
When Jesus gave the Great Commission, He included teaching as part of discipleship: “...teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:20). Teaching God’s Word is not just a task—it’s a sacred trust. Every teacher in our congregation is helping to carry out that divine mission.
 
Think for a moment about those who first taught you about Jesus. Perhaps it was a parent, a friend, or a faithful Bible class teacher. Their patience, kindness, and dedication helped shape your faith and guide your spiritual growth. In the same way, our Bible school teachers today are influencing lives that will touch eternity.
 
Let’s take a moment this week to thank them. A kind word, a note, or a simple “thank you” can go a long way. Pray for our teachers—that they will be encouraged, strengthened, and blessed in their work. And may we each remember that in some way, we are all teachers—by our words, by our example, and by our lives.
 
“Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” — Matthew 18:5
 
Be a Light for Christ in 2025!
 
Dennis

WHY THE CHURCH NEEDS YOU!
 
Every Christian has a vital place in the Lord’s body. The church is not a building made of stone or brick, but a living fellowship of believers redeemed by Christ’s blood. The apostle Paul described it beautifully when he said, “Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually” (1 Cor. 12:27).
 
Each of us has something unique to offer—some gift, ability, or word of encouragement that strengthens the whole. When one member withdraws, the entire body feels the loss. When one member rejoices, we all share in the blessing.
 
The church needs your presence, your prayers, your faith, your example, and your love. Someone sitting nearby may be silently struggling, yet drawing strength just from seeing you remain faithful. Another may be lifted by your kind word, your handshake, or your willingness to serve in a quiet way.
 
The Lord designed His church so that every part does its share (Eph. 4:16). When we work together in unity, God is glorified and His kingdom grows.
 
You are not an extra piece—you are an essential part of God’s plan. The church doesn’t simply want you; it needs you.
 
“Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together…” —Heb. 10:24–25
 
Be a Light for Christ in 2025!
 
Dennis

BE ESSENTIAL
 
“But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased”
(1 Co 12:18).
 
A paraphrase of that scripture reads, “God has placed the members of His church, every single one of them, for a vital purpose that pleases Him.”
 
Speaking of the church that pleases God, Paul wrote, “…may grow up in all things into Him who is the head--Christ-- from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love...” (Eph 4:15-16).
 
Thus, God is pleased when individual Christians are:
·        Growing to be more like Christ.
·        Knit together – united.
·        Supplying (providing) whatever helps the church.
·        Doing its share – being active in the church.
 
When the members participate in this way to please God, the church grows. Every member has an essential role in this. As such, essential Christians exhibit four characteristics.
 
1)   Essential Christians are typically present at all church assemblies. Unless sick, they make it a point to never miss a service. Even though they may have to adjust schedules, suffer inconvenience or miss other activities, they do so because they are committed to helping the church please God.
 
2)   Essential Christians seek opportunities to serve. If something needs to be done - a class to be taught, a meal to prepare, sick or bereaved members that need comforting, or emergencies that require donations, etc., they help whenever possible.
 
3)   Essential Christians strive to be models of personal purity. Although not perfect, they strive to eliminate any and all appearances of evil in their lives (1 Thess. 5:22). Whether it involves the clothes they wear, the language they use, the places they go, or their personal habits, they try to set a Godly example.
 
4)   Essential Christians pray…a lot! They pray for the church, the children, the preacher, the teachers, the sick, the weak and the lost. They believe in the power of persistent prayer and are always grateful for God’s answers.
 
It is God’s will that every single member be essential to the spiritual health and wellbeing of His church. Does this describe you? If not, come back and be essential again.
 
Be a Light for Christ in 2025!
 
Dennis

​🌿 A Place for You


In Matthew 11:28, Jesus offers one of the most touching invitations in Scripture: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

What a simple, yet profound promise! Jesus doesn’t invite only the strong, the confident, or the perfect. He calls all who are weary, burdened, or searching for peace. That includes you and me.

On this Friends and Family Day, we are reminded that the Lord’s church is a spiritual family—where love, encouragement, and truth are shared freely. No matter who you are or what your past looks like, there is a place for you in God’s family.

As you worship with us today, may you feel the warmth of Christ's love and the joy of belonging. Most importantly, may you experience a deep sense of Jesus' loving invitation.

You are not here by accident. God’s providence has brought you to this moment. Our prayer is that you will leave feeling loved, appreciated, and (if you have not already obeyed the gospel), a faithful Christian.

“You are loved by God and welcomed by His people” (Romans 15:7)

Be a light for Christ in 2025! 

Dennis

Power of an Invitation
 
Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote--Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." And Nathanael said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see" (Joh 1:45-46).
 
One of the most powerful things you can do for another person is to extend a simple invitation. When Philip found Nathanael, he didn’t try to persuade him with arguments or long explanations. He simply said, “Come and see.” Those three words brought Nathanael face to face with Jesus, and his life was forever changed.
 
As we prepare for Friends and Family Day on October 5th, we are reminded that our task is not complicated. God doesn’t ask us to have all the answers or to remove every doubt. He simply calls us to invite others to come and see Jesus.
 
Think for a moment: Who in your life could benefit from hearing the gospel? A neighbor who has been struggling? A family member who once attended church but has drifted away? A coworker searching for peace? Each of us knows someone who needs Jesus—and an invitation could be the first step in their journey back to Him.
 
This week, make a list of at least two people you can personally invite. Pray for them by name. Give them a call, send them a text, or better yet, look them in the eye and say, “I’d love for you to come with me.” You may be surprised at how many will accept when the invitation is personal.
 
Remember, the power is not in our words, but in Christ. Our job is simply to extend the invitation. God can take care of the rest. “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase” (1Co 3:6).
 
Be a Light for Christ in 2025!
 
Dennis

THINK BEFORE SPEAKING OF GOD
  
I recently watched a popular sitcom in which the phrase, "Oh my God" was uttered several times in the opening minute. Instead of being used in prayer or to glorify our heavenly Father, it was used to exclaim surprise. To make matters worse, its casual use produced laughter from the audience. (Note - although some people assert that "god" is not the actual name of the heavenly Father, it is frequently used with reference to Him.)
  
Although we may not be surprised to hear "God" misused in movies, TV and in the world, I am appalled at the number of Christians that habitually use that designation in a frivolous manner. Afterall, the Bible repeatedly warns against doing so. 
  

•  “You shall not take the name (title or designation) of the Lord your God in vain (void of meaning), for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain” (Exod. 20:7). 
• “...nor shall you profane the name of your God: I am the LORD" (Lev. 19:12). 
• “But I say to you that for every idle (empty, useless) word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.” (Mt. 12:36). 

·        "Holy and awesome (reverend or revered) is His name..." (Psa. 111:9).


Uttering God's name (or a designation for it) without respect is tantamount to insulting or demeaning Him. 
  
For several decades it has also become popular to abbreviate "Oh my God" as “OMG”. Some justify this practice by saying, "At least I'm not saying "God!" That’s beside the point; virtually everyone is aware of what “OMG” stands for.  
  
Jesus warned, "For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned" (Mt. 12:37). Don't allow careless words to disgrace God and destroy your influence. Strive to honor God whenever you refer to Him by name or designation. Let's heed the fervent prayer of David, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord…” (Psa. 19:14). 
  
Be a Light for Christ in 2025! 
  
Dennis

How Can We be Perfect?
 
“Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect” (Matt 5:48).
 
So said Jesus to His disciples in the Sermon on the Mount. Unfortunately, these words have prompted countless guilt trips for many Christians. Even worse, more than a few have felt hopeless because their lives are far from faultless. The problem, however, is that many Christians misinterpret what Jesus was saying.
 
Words like perfect, perfectly, perfection, et. al., are used 57 times in the KJV New Testament. Yet they never refer to faultless, sinless behavior – not even once!
 
That being the case, what was Jesus’ point in Matthew 5:48? The truth is discovered by looking at the context. Verse 48 isn’t a stand-alone statement. It concludes a section that begins in verse 43, as Jesus contrasted the Jews’ restricted view of love with God’s unconditional love.
 
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies . . .” (5:43-44a).


Jesus then explains that God’s love extends not only to the righteous, but to the unrighteous as well. He blesses both with sunshine and rain (v. 45). In like manner Jesus’ followers should strive to imitate the Father by loving both those who love them and those who do not. It may not be easy, and we will fall short at times, but we do our best to love others in the same way our heavenly Father does.
 
“Be perfect” in Matthew 5:48 does not mean to “be faultless”, it means to live in a way that is above the norms and customs of the world. To show the world, by our attitudes and behavior, that we have chosen the less traveled path, following the steps of the Savior as He followed the will of His Father.
 
Be a Light for Christ in 2025!
 
Dennis