Heart of the Canyons Church

"E" IS FOR EXAMPLE! by Ray Eddy

2011-08-16T17:17:00.000-07:00

I’m sure everyone is aware of how important an example can be. There are many things in life which we learn when someone gives us an example. Reading, Writing and Arithmetic all call for learning by example.

Having good examples is important when it comes to morality and virtue. The morals of a nation are set by the examples we give our children. Too often we fail to give that ‘good’ example and we tell our children, “Don’t do as I do, do as I say.”

When it comes to teaching our children Christian character, there is nothing more important than setting a good example. The Apostle Paul recognized this when he wrote to a young man new to the ministry. In 1 Timothy 4:12 he writes, “…be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” Paul was asking Timothy to be an example as he mentored young believers in the basic requirements of the Christian Faith because he knew we learn best by example.

Have you thought about the example you are setting for those who are new to the Christian Faith, or for that matter, the example you are setting for those who are not Christian? Jesus said in the sermon on the mount, ”You are the salt of the earth, … You are the light of the world.” Salt brings flavor to life, and light dispels the darkness of this world.

Therefore… BE THOU AN EXAMPLE!

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WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? by Ray Eddy

2011-07-07T16:42:00.000-07:00

This is the story of Billy the Butterfly. Billy wasn’t always a butterfly; he used to be a caterpillar. He was confined to the ground and everywhere he went, he had to crawl. Then one day he had the urge to build himself a house (Cocoon). He crawled into it one night and the next time he awoke he found that he was no longer looked like a caterpillar. His many legs were gone and he had these two fixtures on his back. When he attempted to crawl on the ground, he found it was very difficult.

One day another butterfly noticed him crawling on the ground and he flew down to him. “Why are you crawling” he asked? “What do you mean” said Billy, “I’ve always crawled, only now it has become more difficult.” The other butterfly said to him. “That’s because you’ve been changed. You’re no longer a caterpillar, you’ve been ‘transformed,’ you’re a butterfly, and butterflies are made to fly.” With that, Billy spread his wings and soared off into the air with his new-found friend.

Many Christians, after they have been ‘transformed’ (Romans 12:2), still try to crawl along in the world as they have always done before, because no one told them that they are a ‘new creature’ in Christ. They are no longer ‘conformed’ to this world, but have been ‘transformed’ (like that butterfly), and they are to ‘put off the old and put on the new’ and begin to fly.

Don’t crawl! Read God’s Word for Flying Instructions!

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IT'S A REMARKABLE THING! by Ray Eddy

2011-06-28T16:47:00.000-07:00

In the Concise Webster’s Dictionary ‘remarkable’ is defined by only two words, ‘noteworthy’- that is worthy or taking notice of, and ‘extraordinary’- that is uncommon. Both of these words as well as the word “remarkable” could be used to describe the Bible.

It is ‘noteworthy.’ Think for a minute about what you know about God? As a Christian, everything you know about God is what you’ve learned through His Word. The Bible was written by men through the inspiration of God that we might know God and His Son and of God’s purpose for His creation. That is truly ‘noteworthy!’

The Bible is ‘extraordinary’ in its origin and preservation. It began with the spoken word carried down through generations, its accuracy preserved by God. Eventually it evolved into the written word. While we do not possess the original writings, archeological discoveries have continued to prove the accuracy of the Bible as we have it today. It has defied attempts by those who would seek to destroy it. It is truly extraordinary.

It is ‘remarkable’ in its power to transform the lives of those who are exposed to and accept its teachings. It’s ‘gospel’ is “the power of God unto salvation” to those who believe in it (Romans 1:16). It is described as “…quick and powerful” in Hebrews 4:12, and “…is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” in the same verse. It is a ‘remarkable’ book; it is God’s Book. Let it ‘transform’ your life! (Another remarkable thing)

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MAKE PREPARATION! by Ray Eddy

2011-06-22T16:39:00.000-07:00

Before each round in professional golf, the player’s caddy walks the course. He marks down distances, notes where the traps and water hazards are, and notes the pin placement on each hole for that day. He makes those preparations so that his player can successfully navigate the course with the lowest possible score.

In many ways, life is like a round of golf and you, as a caddy, have to prepare for it. In golf, there are easy holes and there are more difficult ones. There are hazards to avoid when possible and if you find yourself in one, you need to know how to get out of it. Some golfers even resort to prayer when they find themselves in difficulty. (Prayer helps in life also.)

The bottom line for the average golfer is to finish the course with his temper and his clubs intact and to reach the 18th hole. In life the 18th hole is death. When the round is over there is no time to wish you had done something differently; no going back and replaying a hole.

Paul obviously wasn’t thinking about golf when he said in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have finished my course.” But he was thinking about the conclusion of his life on earth, and because he had properly prepared his time on earth with Christ as his Savior, he could say that there was a crown of righteousness awaiting him. How’s your round of life going?

IT'S STILL AMAZING! by Ray Eddy

2011-06-08T17:51:00.000-07:00

According to a Music web site, the song ‘Amazing Grace,’ has been recorded 6,000 times, which may make it the most recorded song on the planet. The song was written in 1779 and what is remarkable is that it is as popular today as it has ever been. It was the theme song, as sung by Cliff Barrows, for the Billy Graham Crusades.

It was played at the site of the Oklahoma bombing memorial, the 9/11 memorial service after the attacks on the twin towers, and the memorial for the 32 students killed at Virginia Tech., as well as numerous funeral services around the world.

It was written by John Newton who as a young man deserted from the English Navy, was recaptured and punished and then became involved in slave trading. He later had a religious awakening and became a poet, song writer, and a clergyman. It has no reference to Jesus, just God and the Lord, yet it is un-mistakenly Christian by the word ‘Grace.’

As amazing as the song may be, God’s grace is even more amazing. We may talk about God’s love, but it is “by grace’ that we are saved” (Ephesians 2:8). Grace will be around as long as there is sin in the world, the need for forgiveness and the need for the daily presence of a living, loving savior to be our guide and strength each day.”

Grace, God’s unmerited gift to us!

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"THE CHURCH HAS LEFT THE BUILDING!"

2011-06-01T08:27:00.000-07:00

Some people may not understand the above statement. To them, the church is the building. Walk into any community and stop someone on the street and ask them where the church is located. They will probable ask you which church you are looking for. Then they will begin to name the various church denominations that they are familiar with. When this person has determined what denominational church you are seeking, they will, no doubt, direct you to a specific address where that church building is found.

The Greek word for ‘church’ is ‘a called out people’ i.e. the people of God.
The people who are called the church often meet in a building which over time has come to be called a Church. But the building is not the church.

When the church is in the building it is ‘gathered’ for the purpose of worship, teaching, and other activities for personal spiritual growth. When the church has left the building it is ‘scattered’ for the purpose of witnessing to people they meet daily. At any time the church may be driving a bus, waiting tables, teaching pupils, shopping in a mall etc., this is where church fulfills its purpose.

Since the church is out of the building more than it is in it, people of the world should be able to recognize it, not by its denomination, but by its demeanor. Are you the ‘church’ when you’ve left the building?

WHEN PEOPLE TALK ABOUT YOU! by Ray Eddy

2011-03-22T10:39:00.001-07:00

Believe me, people will talk about you. People are sure to form an impression of us by what they hear as a family, a community, a society. But what will they hear, and what will be the gist of their conversation when our names are mentioned? It would be nice to be a fly on the wall just to hear what they have to say. Sometimes you meet people for the first time and they say, “Oh, I’ve heard about you.” If you ask them what they’ve heard, they hem and haw and somehow sidestep the question. That’s when you know that what they’ve heard was probably not good. But wait, are there things in your life that you would be embarrassed to know that people are discussing in your absence? Has anyone ever asked you if your ears were burning because they were talking about you?

The best way to avoid this problem is to live a life that is above reproach, one that exemplifies the righteousness that God demands of us. Proverbs 14:34 says, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” Paul, in writing to the church of the Thessalonians in his first letter says in chapter 1 that people everywhere were talking about them, but it was their “Work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope,” (v3, 7-9) that they were talking about.

WHAT ARE PEOPLE SAYING ABOUT YOU?

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HEAVEN! IT'S A WONDERFUL PLACE! by Ray Eddy

2011-03-17T13:13:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what heaven will be like? There are many questions about heaven. Will there be animals there? Are the streets really paved with gold? Will we see God? Just exactly where is it located? Will there be trade and commerce? And just what will we be doing all the time in a place where there is no day or night? How will we know one another? Will we be of different ages? And if so, who will care for the babies and little children? If heaven is a city, will there be a country outside of its limits? And what about agriculture, or will we even have to eat?

So many questions and so few answers, and if you are reading this expecting to find answers, let me assure you in plain words, “I don’t Know.” Then what’s the point of talking about heaven if we don’t know what it is going to be like?

The point is this, Heaven is not so much a ‘place’ as it is a ‘people.’ What will make heaven ‘heavenly’ are the people we will see there. I’m not sure we will see God except as God wishes to be revealed to us, but I do know that we’ll see Jesus, and we’ll see all those people of God found in His Word. We’ll see friends and loved ones who have died and gone before us, in a grand reunion before God’s throne.

‘PEOPLE,’ it won’t be heaven without them! SEE YA THERE!

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ANTICIPATE THE UNEXPECTED! by Ray Eddy

2011-03-02T13:06:00.000-08:00

The unexpected is often ushered in by the phrase, ‘Surprise!’ Most of the time surprises come at expected times, that is at weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, etc. At these times, surprises are anticipated and welcomed. They bring feelings of joy and gladness.

When the surprises come at an unexpected time they may be good or they may be bad -- most of the time they are bad. Here are some examples of unexpected surprises which are un-anticipated and un-welcome:

“Honey, the dog bit the mailman today!”
“Honey, there’s a man on the phone from the I.R.S!”
“Honey, that wasn’t hash you ate, that was Alpo!”
“Honey, I’m home. I got laid off today!”
“Honey, the Bank statement came, we’re overdrawn!”
“Honey, I got a speeding ticket today!”
“Honey, our daughter says she has to get married!”
“Honey, did you forget to pay the Electric Co?”
“Honey, wake up. The alarm didn’t go off!”

Surprises like these bring feelings of gloom and despair. But, if we anticipate these kinds of unexpected surprises by being prepared mentally and spiritually, we will be better able to cope with them. There are some who say that religion is nothing but a crutch, but only a fool would try to walk with a broken leg. God invites us to rely on him in times of ‘unexpected surprises.’ Psalm 46:1 declares, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in the day of trouble.”

Anticipate the unexpected and trust God!

WE AIM TO PLEASE! by Ray Eddy

2011-02-01T15:26:00.000-08:00

A certain Pastor was aware that many of the members of his church and the community were not actively involved in the work of the church. As a result, their Christian life, if they ever had any, was withering away instead of growing. Many of them had ceased to be in regular attendance and only came occasionally. Many from the community had never bothered to come at all.

To them, and to all others who had expressed their excuses for not attending church, he mailed the following message concerning a future meeting he called the, ‘No-Excuse-To-Stay-Home-Sunday’:

"Please make every opportunity to attend this service. There will be… cots available for those who say Sunday is their only day to sleep in… eye-drops for those who have red eyes from watching late Saturday night TV… steel helmets for those who say the roof would cave in if they went to church… blankets for persons who think church is too cold and fans for those who say it is too hot… score-cards for those wishing to list all the hypocrites present …TV dinners for those who can’t cook Sunday dinner and take time to go to church, and both… a sanctuary decorated with Christmas poinsettias and Easter lilies for those who have never seen Church without them. We aim to please!"

WHAT’S YOUR EXCUSE AND IS IT VALID?

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"YOU'RE NOBODY 'TILL SOMEBODY LOVES YOU" by Ray Eddy

2011-01-20T13:56:00.000-08:00

As an avid listener to an “Oldies” radio station I have heard the above titled song many times. Its message may be true in the natural realm, but even more so in the spiritual realm. According to scripture, we are a ‘nobody’ in this world until ‘somebody’, God, loves us.

The Bible tells us in Ephesians 2 that we are “dead in trespasses and sin.” It tells us that the god of this world (Satan) controls our lives and that by nature we are the children of wrath. There is no reason for God to love us, but He does, and because God loves us we have the possibility of becoming a ‘somebody’. No longer are we the recipients of God’s wrath. We can be free from the control of the god of this world and we can receive a new nature that is not conformed to this world and its evil desires. (Romans 12:2)

This has all been made possible through the grace and mercy of God who loves us. It remains for us to respond to His love by accepting the sacrifice of His son, Jesus, and to receive Him as the Lord of our life. He was crucified on the cross as the price that was paid for our sin, and, He even gives us that faith. (Ephesians 2:1-10) When you receive Jesus you will become a ‘somebody’ in God’s sight.

Now that’s something to sing about!

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I'LL TELL MY DAD! by Ray Eddy

2010-12-28T12:09:00.000-08:00

The story is told of two boys who were always fighting. Neither one ever won any of the fights except on one occasion when one boy threw a lucky punch and knocked the other boy to the ground. The boy lay on the ground with a stunned look on his face as though he couldn’t believe what had just happened. He was so amazed that he jumped up and ran away. As he left, the other boy could hear him saying, ‘I’m going to tell my dad!’

Well he told his dad and his dad talked with the other boy’s dad and he in turn talked to his son. By the time all of this had taken place, both boys were the best of friends again, and they never fought again. The talk with dad settled the issues that brought about the fight in the first place.

When you think about it, we sometimes lose the fight when it comes to our spiritual battles; we get ‘knocked to the ground.’ That’s when we know that it’s time to have a talk with Dad. An old chorus refrain comes to mind, ‘Just a little talk with Jesus makes it right.’ When you talk to your heavenly Father and listen to His answer, you will find that He will resolve the issues and turn your defeat to victory. So, when you find yourself in a spiritual battle, Just go tell Dad!

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ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS... by Ray Eddy

2010-12-20T12:15:00.000-08:00

I could be like the soon-to-be crowned Miss America and say “World Peace.” But being a Christian, I know that’s not going to happen until Christ comes to rule and reign on earth. When you’ve been married over 50 years and have lived in your only house for almost 50 years, it becomes a difficult question to answer when someone asks, “What do you want for Christmas?”

In the past few years I have been given gifts that I greatly appreciated. Things like Gift Cards to one of my favorite restaurants or shopping places. This year, when my daughter asked me what I wanted, I said “I would like a word etymology book that would be a good resource for my Blogs and “From the Heart writings.” (I think that’s what I’m getting.) Beyond that, I can think of little I need or have a desire for. Realizing that I may have to downsize and move into a more manageable living space, my wife and I have been trying to get rid of the things one tends to accumulate over the years and the last thing I need is more ‘things.’

The best Christmas gift I can think of is simply having friends and family gatherings over the Holidays. These gatherings are pleasant and comforting whenever they occur, but it seems they have a special meaning during the Christmas Season.

And after all, Christmas isn’t about gifts; it’s about the gift of God’s Son to the World – the greatest Gift of all.

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IT'S THE THOUGHT THAT COUNTS by Ray Eddy

2010-12-14T12:58:00.000-08:00

It’s almost Christmas, time to think about the gifts you will be giving to others and perhaps about the gifts others will give to you. Why do you give gifts? Do you give because you know you’re going to receive, making it an obligation? Do you give because you want to impress someone with your generous and costly gift?

Or do you give because you genuinely love someone and want to bless them at Christmas time? Do you give a gift that will have significant meaning to the one receiving it because they know you put a lot of thought into their gift?

Have you ever received a gift from someone and thought to yourself, “What were they thinking?” Have you ever received a gift and responded to the giver, “Oh, it’s just what I wanted” when all the time you’re wondering what in the world you’re going to do with it.

All of the above serve as examples that in giving or receiving a gift, it’s the thought that counts. It matters not if the gift is great or small, if it is expensive or inexpensive, if it’s useful or ornamental, as long as you know the thought behind the gift was an expression of love.

God’s gift to us of eternal life through the giving of His Son as a sacrifice for sin was a gift that cost God and Jesus a great deal. But what makes it of such great value is the thought behind it. “God so loved…”

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LIFE IS BUT A MOMENT! by Ray Eddy

2010-12-09T16:39:00.000-08:00

When we think about the years God has allotted for us to live here on earth, which according to Psalm 90:10, are few, “The days of our livers are seventy years; and if by reason of strength they are eighty years.” And if we consider what II Peter 3:8 says, “But beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years and a thousand years as one day.” We begin to realize how each moment of our time is precious.

Using the above data, the person who is eighty years old where 1000 years = I day, has lived 29,200,000 years (80 years x365 days x 1000). An eighty year old, where I day = 1,000 years, has only lived 29.2 days of Gods 1,000 years (80×365 divided by 1,000). At 29.2 days, in God’s eyes, each moment must be lived to the fullest. If we are to live life moment by moment, then here are some things to consider:
-IN THE HAPPY MOMENT…PRAISE GOD.
-IN THE DIFFICULT MOMENT…SEEK GOD.
-IN THE QUIET MOMENT…WORSHIP GOD.
-IN THE PAINFUL MOMENT…TRUST GOD.
-IN EVERY MOMENT…THANK GOD.

Psalm 90:12, tells us, “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Live each moment with God, it’s the wise thing to do!

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CAN YOU HANDLE THE TRUTH? by Ray Eddy

2010-12-03T16:39:00.000-08:00

In the film “A few Good Men” Tom Cruise is told, “You can’t handle the truth!” There are two aspects of truth that people find difficult to handle. The first is truth that is heard through the ear. Our decisions about truth may be based on several things, i.e. how reliable the person is who is telling you, and what supporting evidence is available to you, or what your own disposition is to receive what you are hearing as truth.

Truth must be responded to either by believing or rejecting. Responding to truth can put tremendous pressures on an individual. Truth forces us to make a decision. Do I believe it and respond, or do I ignore it? It can be as dangerous to ignore truth as it is to ignore a “Warning” sign. Our human nature makes us hesitate to believe warning signs, i.e. “Wet Paint.” It can be fatal if we ignore the truth that is found in God’s Word, the truth about Sin and Salvation. That truth will set you free. (John. 8:32)

The second aspect of truth that is hard to handle is that which we speak. Many people who say, “To tell the truth…” are really not telling the truth. Being truthful is not easy. We struggle with it even as a child when we fail to take responsibility for our actions. Telling the truth can bring painful consequences, but lying is not justified. Always “speak the truth in love.” (Ephesians 4:14, 15a)

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UNTO THE LEAST OF THESE...! by Ray Eddy

2010-11-24T15:53:00.000-08:00

There is a story by Leo Tolstoy entitled, “Where love is, God is too.” It is the story of an old shoe cobbler who, one night, hears a voice while in a deep sleep. The voice tells him that on the very next day the Lord Jesus will visit him. Next morning he begins his work in a spirit of high expectation as he eagerly awaits the coming of the Lord. But the only visitors he has that day are people in distress.

First, there is an emaciated old beggar with a racking tubercular cough. The old cobbler takes him in, warms him by the fire, and gives him food. Next, to appear is a half-frozen, thinly clad young woman carrying her hungry baby in her arms. She needs food and clothing, and the old cobbler obliges. Then an old woman comes. She is terribly upset because a young lad tried to steal her apples she intended to sell. The cobbler knows the boy and he is able to bring the two together and reconcile them.

The day has not turned out as he expected, but the cobbler has not forgotten the promise of the Lord’s visit. Tired now, he falls asleep in his chair and he hears the same voice from the previous night:

“I was hungry and you fed me. I was thirsty and you gave me drink…I was sick and you ministered to me.” (Matthew 25:35-36)

Then the old cobbler smiled as he went to bed, the Lord, indeed, had visited him.

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I SEE DEAD PEOPLE! by Ray Eddy

2010-11-17T11:49:00.000-08:00

No, I don’t have a ‘sixth sense,’ neither am I a police officer called to the scene of a homicide, or an EMT responding to an accident with fatalities, or an RN working in ICU or a mortician. Where do I see dead people? I see them everywhere.

They are described in Ephesians 2:1-3 as those who are dead in trespasses and sin, people under the dominion of the devil who have not accepted God’s free gift of salvation. They have turned their backs on God and follow the ‘god of this world.’ They trespass against the laws of God and are separated from Him by their sin.

Unlike dead people in a morgue, these people can be ‘quickened,’ brought back to life. God sent His Son into the world in order to bring dead people to life again. Jesus said in John 10:10, “I am come that they (people) might have life and that they may have it more abundantly.”

Abundant life is being a ‘new creation’ in Christ. It is putting off the old man and putting on the new man. It is coming to the ‘fullness of the stature of Christ.’

When we see ‘dead people,’ we have a God-given responsibility to tell them the ‘good news’ that, “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) What do you do about the dead people you see?

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IT'S A RARE THING? by Ray Eddy

2010-11-12T13:15:00.000-08:00

This past Labor Day weekend, my wife and I celebrated our 57th wedding anniversary. In 1999, a newspaper article said that ‘there won’t be many 50th anniversary celebrations in the new millennium. Too many divorces, too many marriages postponed till the career is launched, and too many cohabitants who have never said, I do.’

Why do people today have 50+ anniversaries? In my generation, marriage wasn’t for the time being or as long as it feels good and nobody better comes along. People married before their hair turned gray and stayed married when it did. It wasn’t for ‘as long as we both shall love,’ it was ‘til death do us part, in sickness and in health, for better or for worse.’

The secret to lasting marriages is the commitment to keep one’s wedding vows, regardless. It is the commitment to bear children and to raise them with a mother and a father. It is far better, and the way God teaches us to live, than any other alternative forms of family today. Not always, of course. Not perfectly, for we are not perfect. There are dreadful marriages, happy divorces, and successful single parents. But, on average, marriage works better as God’s way for raising children.

Marriage has no place for being self-centered. It is not ‘I’ or ‘You,’ it is ‘We.’ According to Genesis 2:18-24, God made Adam and Eve one flesh. Marriage works best when we keep this in mind. Are you working on “a rare thing?”

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WINNING AND LOSING! by Ray Eddy

2010-11-11T10:04:00.000-08:00

WINNING AND LOSING! by Ray Eddy
November 11th, 2010

There are two questions that man has struggled with to find the answers. The first is, “What is life?” and the second is, “If a man dies, shall he live again?”

Without an answer to the first question, man finds life has no purpose for him, so he chooses to live as he pleases. As one of the world’s great Philosophers said, “Eat, Drink, and be Merry, for tomorrow we die.”

Without an answer to the second question, man lives his life with a constant fear of death as a great unknown. He avoids funerals and refuses to accept his own mortality. When he dies, he ‘loses’ his life!

The Bible has the only satisfying answer to both of these questions. The Apostle Paul answers these two questions in Philippians 1:21, where he writes, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die, is gain.”

When we choose to accept Christ as our Savior and live our life through Him, we find the true purpose of Life. It is a purpose that brings peace and satisfaction, and meaning to life. When we die, it is not loss, but gain, because we have a place prepared for us with God in heaven, John 14:1-3. Having this assurance, we find we no longer need to fear death, Hebrews 2:14-15, but rather we can welcome it, knowing that when we die we go to be with the Lord, 2 Corinthians 5:6-8. It’s a win-win situation!

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THE WAY THINGS WERE! by Ray Eddy

2010-11-03T12:58:00.000-07:00

Have you ever found yourself longing for the ‘good old days?’ Times when life seemed less complicated and you had more time for things in your life that now seem to get crowded out in today’s busyness. More time for friends and family and things that really mattered.

It even seems like we had more time for God back then. Going to church or being with church people 3 and 4 times a week was not unusual. God even seemed to be more real in our lives.

Some feel that things today are not as good as they used to be. A man wrote to a magazine editor complaining that, “Your magazine is not as good as it used to be.” The editor wrote back, “It never has been.” We would not really be that happy if things were like they used to be. We have so much more available to us in today’s world than man has ever had. The real problem is learning what is important and what is not. We could have just as much time as we used to have, but we’ve allowed ourselves to conform to the world instead of Christ.

In today’s world we need to stop longing for the God of the old days and start seeking the God of all days. When life overwhelms you remember the words of the Psalmist in 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God…I will be exalted in the earth.”

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ARE YOU A 'CHICKENISTA?' by Ray Eddy

2010-10-22T13:06:00.000-07:00

According to a recent newspaper article, if you are one of the growing numbers of people who live in an urban area and have one or more chickens as pets, then you are a ‘Chickenista.’ Having a chicken(s) as a pet is one of the growing fads of the day and those who do so are said to have ‘panache.’

What exactly is panache? I wasn’t sure so I went to the dictionary for a definition. This is a summary of what I found. Panache is from a French word meaning a ‘plume of feathers flying in the wind.’ It was Cyrano de Bergerac who was said to have ‘panache’ because he wore a plume of feathers in his hat, a daring thing to do in his day. Panache then came to be a term to describe one who had the ‘confidence of style or manner.’ In other words, one who ‘dared to be different and not care what other people think.’

If anyone ought to have ‘panache’, it should be the followers of Christ. Christians are called to be distinguishable from the world by their confident lifestyle and manner of living. Jesus said we are to be ‘in the world, but not of the world.’ And Paul tells us in Romans 12 to, ‘not be conformed to the world, but be transformed.’

Christians ought to live as those who have been transformed and not care what other people may think. Get some panache, become a ‘Christianista!’

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LOVE IS NOT PUFFED-UP by Ray Eddy

2010-10-12T14:54:00.000-07:00

The following bit of verse is by Joseph Morrie. I’m not sure when it was written but I suspect it was some time ago. It seemed appropriate for the subject. It’s called,… “Swellitis.”

Somebody said he’d done it well, and ‘Presto!’ his head began to swell;
Bigger and bigger the poor thing grew. A wonder it didn’t split in two.
In size, a balloon could scarcely match it; it took a fishing-pole to scratch it.
But six and a half was the size of his hat, and it was big on his head at that.

“Good work” somebody chanced to say. And his chest grew as big as a load of hay.
About himself like a rooster he crowed; of his wonderful work he bragged and blowed.
He marched around with a peacock strut; gigantic to him was the figure he cut.
But he wore a very small sized suit, and loosely it hung on him to boot.

HE was the chap who made things hum! HE was the drumstick and the drum!
HE was the shirt front and the starch! HE was the keystone in the arch!
HE was the axis of the earth! Nothing existed before his birth!
But when he was off from work a day, nobody knew that he was away.

This is a fact that is sad to tell; it’s the empty head that’s bound to swell;
The ego-filled fellow soars to the skies, bursting like a bubble before your eyes.
A big man is humbled by honest praise. And tries to think of all the ways
To improve his work and do it well. But a little man starts of himself to yell!

Looking for Santa Clarita churches? Check out Heart of the Canyons.

DON'T GIVE IN! by Ray Eddy

2010-10-07T10:44:00.000-07:00

Compromise is the devil’s suggestion of a way out of our troubles. Just “give in,” he whispers in your ear. “Take the easy way out, the safe way. Why put yourself in harm’s way? After all, God will understand. You need to be smart and just ‘give in.’”

Sometimes it seems that giving in is better than going on. Compromise always seems the easy way out. After all, people do it every day and seem none the worse for wear. But you do know that the devil is a liar and whenever he can he will suggest that you compromise and give in.

You can compromise yourself right out of the will of God. God doesn’t offer the easy way out. He wants us to stand firm in our faith and trust Him. In Daniel 3 the three Hebrew children had a choice to make. They could bow down to the idol the King had erected or face the fiery furnace. Now bowing down doesn’t seem like an unreasonable thing. But they knew bowing was out of the question. They chose to face the furnace. In verses 17-18 they said: “Our God is able to deliver us…but if not…” They had faith to say, “God can do it, but if He doesn’t, He is still our God.” (and God did it!)

In the midst of trouble, how’s your, ‘…If Not?’

Looking for Churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons.

LIVING A LIFE OF FAITH by Ray Eddy

2010-10-01T15:30:00.000-07:00

Romans 1:17 tells us: “The just shall live by faith.” As you read the 11th chapter of Hebrews, you encounter the phrase “By Faith” 18 times as it tells us how the saints of the past lived their lives.

Living a life of Faith is not an option, it is a command. It’s how God expects His people to live. It’s a life dedicated to HIM. It is a life of Faith that…

HONORS GOD - Faith acknowledges God. Hebrews 11:6 says, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Faith honors God by obedience to His Word in all we do and all we say. It is to believe in God and seek Him with all of our hearts. Psalms 96:8 tells us to, “Give to the Lord the glory due His name.”

IMPRESSES OTHERS - When we live by faith, those who observe our manner of living will be impressed to the point that they may ask of us “…a reason for the hope that lies within us.” It gives us an opportunity to be a witness for Christ, to tell them of His love and purpose for their lives in Christ Jesus.

MAKES ME A BETTER CHRISTIAN - Faith is Christ dwelling in our hearts filling us “with all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:17-19) Faith in our hearts will fulfill God’s purpose for our life.

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WRITTEN TO BE READ! by Ray Eddy

2010-09-22T11:19:00.000-07:00

Some people think the Bible is a difficult book to understand. It is true that there are things in the Old Testament (O.T.). that seem strange until you view them in the light of the New Testament (N.T.). No one can fully understand the Old until they come to grasp the New. Some of it we’ll understand better bye and bye.

If the Bible had been written by lawyers the text, “Give us this day our daily bread,” might sound something like this:

We respectively petition, request, and entreat, that due and adequate provision be made, this date and date first above inscribed, for, satisfying of petitioner’s nutritional requirements and for the organizing of such methods of allocation and distribution as may be deemed necessary and proper to assure the reception by and for said petitioners, of such quantity of cereal products hereinafter called BREAD) as shall, in the judgment of the aforementioned petitioners, constitute sufficient amount.

Thank goodness the N.T. was written for our understanding, written by men full of the Spirit, as revealed to them by God. In the Message, 2 Timothy 3:16- 17 reads: “Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another-showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God’s way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us.”

Read it, obey, and grow thereby!

Looking for churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons Church.

DO WHAT YOU CAN! by Ray Eddy

2010-09-13T09:22:00.000-07:00

She found a little box in the attic. With her crayons she tried to make it more presentable. Inside she placed a cut-out rose along with a larger one of her own drawing. She wrote beneath it “Happy Birthday.” Then she wrapped it in a manner all her own with plenty of scotch tape and a big yellow ribbon tied all around.

It wouldn’t bring much on sale, but no one could buy it from me, because it was the expression of a little girl’s love. She did what she could.

In Mark 14 there is the story of a woman who poured fragrant oil on Jesus head. Indignantly some protested that the oil had been wasted and could have been sold and given to the poor. And they began to criticize the woman. But Jesus told them to leave her alone because she had done a good work for Him. In v8, Jesus says, “She has done what she could. She has come beforehand to anoint my body for burial.” And in v9 he adds, “…what this woman did will be spoken of as a memorial to her.”

Don’t let not being able to do something in a great or grand fashion keep you from doing what you can. Bring to Jesus such as you have, the best you have, all you have. If you give it as a love gift from the heart, it will be precious in His sight.

Looking for Santa Clarita churches? Visit http://www.HeartoftheCanyons.com.

A STUMBLING BLOCK? by Ray Eddy

2010-09-07T12:43:00.000-07:00

Paul admonishes the Christians in Corinth not to let their liberty become a stumbling block to other Christians who were immature in their faith. The occasion of their liberty had to do with eating meat that had been offered to idols. Those who were weak were convinced that to do so was a sin, an affront to God.

The obvious point here is that our actions, no matter how innocent can become a ‘stumbling block’ to others. In 1 Corinthians 8:9 Paul says: “But beware less somehow this liberty of yours becomes a stumbling block to those who are weak.”

The word from which ‘stumbling block’ is translated was also the word that was used for the ‘bait-stick’ which was placed in an animal trap. The purpose of the bait-stick was to entice the unwary animal into the trap.

Those who have come to the faith with a teaching of legalism (a strong emphasis on not doing certain things which most Christians find unrestrictive) are often enticed by the actions of other Christians. They then begin to do those things, but with a deep sense of guilt. Until they become strong in the faith and realize the foolishness of legalism, their actions can become a ‘bait-stick’, a stumbling block.

Paul tells us in verse 1 of this chapter that knowledge “puffs-up,” but we should use our knowledge through love to edify others. Read verses 1-13 and do not allow your liberty to become a stumbling block.

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"A FRESH LOOK AT LOVE" by Ray Eddy

2010-08-31T12:04:00.000-07:00

Many Christians define love the way the world does and that is as ‘a strong emotion.’ When the world says ‘I love you’ it means I have feelings towards you. For the Christian, the commandment to love is not about emotion, it is about action. Romans 5:8 says this about God’s love for us, “…God demonstrates His own love toward us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” For the Christian, love is not how you feel about someone it’s what you do in a relationship with them. It may take many forms, like spousal love, parental love, love of ones family, love of fellow believers, and even love for our enemies. No matter what the relationship of love we may be talking about, the emotion may differ, but the demonstration of love is the same.

Love is how we treat one another. All the many ‘facets’ of love are to be employed in that treatment, no matter who the object of that love may be. When we say we love one person more than another, we are talking about our emotional feelings for them. But, in God’s eyes, we cannot love one person more than another in demonstrating our love to them. This might explain to some how you can love someone you don’t like. In the monthly publication of “From the Heart” we are going to be examining these facets as found in 1 Corinthians 13. Pick up the September issue or view it online.

Looking for Churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons Church.

SEEING IS BELIEVING! by Ray Eddy

2010-08-24T16:29:00.000-07:00

This is a saying that supposedly originated in Missouri, the “Show Me” State. Having never seen an ocean, they were skeptical and said, “Seeing is believing.” In our day and age, there are few things that require ‘seeing’ to believe. With the media and world-wide coverage, we’ve just about seen everything - everything, that is, except God.

When it comes to God, many people still have a ‘Show Me’ attitude. When a Russian Cosmonaut went into space, he reported that he did not see God. The skeptical astronomer, as he looks into the starry heavens says, “I do not see God.” Others, observing the wonders of nature with all of its intricacies, say, “We do not see God.” A man, sitting in a stained glass house of worship, listening to a sermon says, “I do not see God.” All of these have adopted the attitude that “Seeing is believing.”

It is true that the ‘visible’ God cannot be seen by man. But, does a man have to see in order to believe? There are many things in life we believe that we have not seen. We accepted the testimony, either written or oral, as proof positive. Why is it we cannot do the same with our belief in God?

Our belief in God is not “Seeing is believing.” It is “Believing is seeing.” Hebrews 11:6 tells us, “…he who comes to God must believe that He is…”

BELIEVE THAT HE IS AND YOU WILL SEE HIM!

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RESISTING THE DEVIL! by Ray Eddy

2010-08-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

James 4:7 tells us to “Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” That sounds all well and good, but what is involved in resisting? Are we to simply say “Get out of here Old Slew Foot!” or perhaps we ought to hold up a replica of the cross and wave it in his face. Someone may tell you that you simply have to pray harder and maybe fast. Still others may say, “You just don’t have enough faith.”

But why speculate when the Bible tells us quite simply how we are to resist the devil. In fact it is found in this same verse in James. The verse begins with these words: “Therefore submit to God.” The ‘therefore’ is based on verse 6. Quoting from Proverbs 3:34 James says: “God resists the proud’ but gives grace to the humble.”

Submission to God is the pathway to resisting the devil. You can’t say “No” to the devil until you’ve said “Yes” to God. Ephesians 6:10-18; says that we are to fight with spiritual weapons, but we still fight. There is not only passive submission, but also active resistance.

Saying “Yes” to God is the first step of learning submission. If we haven’t submitted to God how then can we submit to one another? God gives grace, His enabling power, to those who are willing to humble themselves before Him.

Of course if you haven’t submitted to God, the devil probably won’t bother you anyway!

Looking for Churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons!

IT'S NO SECRET! by Ray Eddy

2010-08-11T15:29:00.000-07:00

I love the commercials for Bush’s Beans. People want to know what makes them taste so good. Bush’s makes the claim that there is a secret ingredient that makes them taste as good as they do. Of course they have to watch out for the dog. He always seems on the verge of giving the secret away, spilling the beans so to speak. Lately the wife doesn’t even want her husband to reveal that they are Bush’s Beans because she wants people to think that she made them herself in her kitchen.

If you are living a life of peace and contentment because of your relationship with God, people will want to know what the secret ingredient is in your life. Of course it’s not a secret we want to hide. 1 Peter 3:15 says: “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts and always be ready to give a defense to every one who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.”

What is the secret ingredient? Psalms 25:14 says: “The secret of the Lord is with them who fear Him.” Proverbs 3:32 tells us that: “His secret is with the righteous.” The secret of a life of peace and contentment is that it is a product of our salvation which has been made possible by our faith in God’s Son.

Bush’s Beans may keep their secret but God wants us to share ours.

Looking for churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons Church.

I SAW WHAT YOU DID! by Ray Eddy

2010-08-06T16:49:00.000-07:00

Did anyone ever catch you doing something that was illegal, immoral or just plain stupid? How did you feel? Were you embarrassed?

When we fail to obey God, we sin. If we do anything which God forbids, we sin and must repent.

If we fail the second time we are not smart. We are like the two fellows watching a western. The first says, “See that posse chasing that robber? Watch, in just a minute he is going to get knocked off his horse by a low-hanging branch.” “No way,” said the other fellow, “I’ll bet you ten dollars it won’t happen.” Sure enough the robber rode under a tree and was knocked off his horse. “Looks like I owe you ten dollars,” said the second fellow. “That’s all right,” said the first, “I saw this movie before.” “Well so did I,” the second fellow replied. “But I didn’t think he was dumb enough to do it again.”

If we do it the third time we are an addict. We need to be treated for our addiction.

If we do it a forth time, God help us. Nothing we do can be hidden from God. Remember, God is watching us, not to punish, but to forgive.

Psalms 103:1-2 says: “Bless the Lord, O my soul…who forgives all your iniquities.” There’s a song that says “God Is Watching Us From Afar.” That’s not true. “Immanuel” is God with us!

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CHEESE AND CRACKER CHRISTIANS by Ray Eddy

2010-08-05T12:20:00.000-07:00

There is an old story about a passenger who booked passage on a ship bound for England. During the voyage he scrounged the ships galley and was able to live on cheese and crackers all the way to England. It was only after leaving the ship that he discovered that his ticket had not only provided passage but also included all his meals.

This passenger is like a lot of Christians who purchased their ticket to heaven through salvation and are living on crackers and cheese during the journey. Salvation includes a whole lot more than just safe passage. Jesus said in John 10:10 that his sheep “…can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.” (The Message) Real and eternal life is not just for the future, it also includes the present.

Matthew 6:34 tells us, in The Message, “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.”

Salvation includes all that we’ll need on the journey to heaven. Jesus is not only our Savior; He is the Supplier of all our daily needs. Throw away your crackers and cheese and eat daily in the main dinning room He has provided for you. 1 Corinthians 3:21 reminds us, “For all things are yours.”

"THE ROOSTER AND THE COW!" by Ray Eddy

2010-07-29T12:25:00.000-07:00

Every morning, at the first light of dawn, the Rooster crowed. He crowed so long and so loud that he managed to awaken all the animals in the barnyard. Finally the Cow could stand it no longer. He asked the Rooster, “Why do you have to wake everybody up, every morning at the break of day?” The Rooster was surprised that the Cow would ask such a question. “Don’t you know,” he said to the Cow? “If I don’t crow the sun will not come up. I am a very important person with a big responsibility.” “You are a silly goose” said the Cow. “The sun will come up every morning whether you crow or not. You have nothing to crow about.”

Why does the rooster crow? I’m sure the reason is simple, but I don’t know what it is. But if the rooster is crowing over false accomplishments, then a lot of people are just like him. James 4:16 tells us that when we ‘crow’ about things which we have not done, that “such boasting is evil.” Have you ever heard someone say in so many words, “God has to be pleased with me? Look at all I’ve done for Him.” This person has ‘nothing to crow about.’ All that God does for us is unmerited.

The Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 2:8; “For by grace you are saved through faith and that not of yourself, it is the gift of God.”

Looking for churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons.

ADOPT A BEAR! by Ray Eddy

2010-07-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

Wanted, couples home for three bears - must have differences. These three bears are a must for your life if you are experiencing discord in your marriage and are looking for help. These are not ordinary bears; they will bring magic into your marriage. Results guaranteed.

The first bear is called Papa Bear. He is the bear who will help you when you have disagreements and arguments in your relationship. His motto is “Bear ye one another’s burdens.” Listen to him and discord will disappear.

The second bear is Mama Bear. She will help you put up with your mate when misunderstandings occur and you feel like pulling out your hair. Her motto is “Forebear one another in love.” Listen to her and your mate will respond to you with love and appreciation.

The third bear is really a bare, she is called Baby Bare. Under her guidance you will bring openness and honesty into your marriage as you bare yourself to one another. She will encourage you to have no secrets or ulterior motives with one another so that you will not feel betrayed or embarrassed if they are brought to light by others.

These bears are very inexpensive to maintain; they eat very little. Just nourish them with Love and Submission and they will be with you for life.

If interested, inquire in your Bible, they are there.

Looking for Santa Clarita Churches? Check out Heart of the Canyons Church.

WHAT ARE YOU WAITNG FOR? by Ray Eddy

2010-07-12T12:03:00.000-07:00

Most of the singing that is now done in my family, I leave to my children and my grandchildren. But there was a time when my wife and I sang together. One of the old songs we used to sing suggests that if you want to do anything worthwhile in your life for the Lord, you’d better do it now. The name of the song is “Serve Him with all of your Heart.” The words are as follows:

Life can be spent seeking pleasure, drifting along in your sin.
But when life’s journey is over, tell me how can the Lord use you then?
Serve Him with all of your heart; give Him the best of your years.
If you need someone to comfort, He’ll wipe away all your tears.
He’ll make it well worth your while, if you’ll be faithful and true.
The windows of heaven He will open and He’ll shower His blessing on you.

I can bear witness that the words of this song are true. My wife and I have been Christians for 57+ years. We were called into the ministry shortly after being married, giving Him the best of our years. He has always been a comfort, and He has made it well worth our while. The blessings He has showered on us are too innumerable to count. Psalms 37:25 is one of my favorite verses: “I have been young and now I am old: Yet, I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread.”

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HE WILL REST IN HIS LOVE by Ray Eddy

2010-07-08T15:48:00.000-07:00

“The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; He will save and rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love, He will joy over thee with singing,” Zephaniah 3:17

The Living Bible says: “…He will love you and not accuse you.” And the Amplified Bible declares; “…in His love He will be silent and make no mention of past sins or even recall them.”

Romans 8 has a great verse: “There is therefore no condemnation (i.e. no judging guilty of wrong) for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (V1, Amp. Bible)

Every person born into this world enters with the condemnation of sin in his or her heart. Although often indiscernible, it is there nevertheless. The word of God, given through the Law, makes a person aware of their sinful condition. Paul said, in Romans 7:9: “When the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.” Condemnation cries out for relief. He goes on to say, “O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” He just as quickly answers, “I thank God through Jesus Christ.” Romans 7:24, 25.

In I Corinthians. 5:17 he gives us this assurance: “Therefore if any man be in Christ Jesus, he is a new creation; old things are passed away; behold all things become new.”

Receive Christ as your Savior and He will remove all condemnation and He will rest in His love and you can rest in it too.

Find out more about Santa Clarita churches at http://www.HeartoftheCanyons.com

"IF ...? by Ray Eddy

2010-07-07T15:39:00.000-07:00

The following appeared in a James Dobson Bulletin. The author is unknown. I think you are going to like it.

“If you can start the day without caffeine; if you can get along without pep pills; if you can always be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains; if you can resist complaining and boring people with your troubles; if you can eat the same food every day and be grateful for it; if you can understand when your loved ones are too busy to give you any time;

If you can forgive a friend’s lack of consideration; if you can overlook it when those you love take it out on you when, through no fault of your own, something goes wrong; if you can take criticism and blame without resentment; if you can ignore a friend’s limited education and never correct him; if you can resist treating a rich friend better than a poor friend; if you can face the world without lies and deceit;

If you can conquer tension without medical help; if you can relax without liquor; if you can sleep without the aid of pills; if you can honestly say that your deep heart you have no prejudice against creed or color, religion or politics; then, my friend, you’re almost as good as your dog, Almost, but not quite.”

Could people love us almost as much as they love their dog? The old saying “It’s a dog’s life” as seen above, should be a truism of our life.

Looking for churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons Church.

THE INVISIBLE FENCE! by Ray Eddy

2010-07-01T09:02:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has had anything to do with livestock knows what an invisible fence is. It’s an electrical network that delivers a shock to anything that passes through it. Sometimes animals can become so accustomed to it that they will not cross it even when the current is turned off.

Law enforcement knows all about invisible fences. They call them ankle bracelets. While it doesn’t give one a shock, it does notify the police when someone goes where they shouldn’t go. Some ankle bracelets can tell them when someone who is supposed to be alcoholic-free takes a drink. They say it is very effective.

Parents use a kind of invisible fence as they raise their children. They tell them what is right to do and what is wrong to do. The idea being, that when they are confronted with a choice, they will choose to do what is right, by remembering what their parents taught them. Most of the time, it is an effective fence.

God also has an invisible fence. His fence is the Holy Spirit. God sent His Spirit to earth to dwell in the earth and within men who have received Jesus as their Savior. His main purpose, according to John 16:7-15, is to bring conviction of sin, convincing of righteousness and of future judgment yet to come. He also clarifies God’s Word and glorifies God as He acts in the Fathers Name.

As you are confronted with this fence remember God tells us we must not grieve nor quench His Spirit.

Looking for churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons Church.

THE PROCESS! by Ray Eddy

2010-06-28T12:25:00.000-07:00

Stripping, sanding, staining and steel wool, this is the process I used to restore an old cedar chest that my wife owned before we were married, almost 57 years ago. In order to bring the chest back to its original condition all of the above things were needed. God uses the same process in restoring our sin-worn lives back to their original condition, the way man was in the Garden of Eden.

Stripping and sanding a piece of furniture is the only way to remove the accumulation of paint and varnish that has been applied over the years. It seems to be a harsh way to treat a piece of furniture, but is absolutely necessary. Stripping and sanding humanity can be harsh and painful also, but absolutely necessary.

God’s word tells is in Ephesians 4:22-24 that we are to put off, that is remove, the old man, which grows more corrupt day-by-day, and put on the new man whom God creates. When we surrender our lives to Christ we start the process. 2 Corinthians 5:17 tells us: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things are passed away; behold all things have become new.”

In the tense in which this verse is written, the word ‘passed’ is ‘passing’ and the word ‘become’ is ‘becoming.’ In other words, this is a process.

Submit yourselves to the restoring work that God wants to do in your life to make you ‘fit’ for the Kingdom of God. It may be painful, but it’s necessary.

Find out more about this Santa Clarita church at http://HeartoftheCanyons.com.

JUST BE HAPPY... by Ray Eddy

2010-06-21T15:11:00.000-07:00

If you asked a hundred people if they’d like to be happy, the overwhelming response would be ‘yes.’ Everybody wants to be happy right? In that case why are so many people unhappy?

The secret to being happy is to discover what brings happiness. Some people think wealth will make them happy. Winning the lottery will do it right? Wrong! More people are made unhappy in their search to win the lottery. They are also made poorer. What about power? Will that make you happy? Probably not because with power comes tremendous responsibility. How about popularity? Many of the people I see who are popular spend a lot of time in rehab trying to get their life straightened out. They don’t seem to be very happy.

You can find happiness if you look in the right place. And the best place to look is in God’s Word. Consider the following verses regarding happiness:

Proverbs 16:30: “He who gives heed to the Word will prosper and happy is he who trusts in the Lord.”

Proverbs 8:32: “And now my son, listen to me: happy are those who keep my ways.”

Psalms 34:8 says: “Oh taste and see that the Lord is good. Happy is the man who takes refuge in Him.”

Happiness is not a state of mind; it is a state of being. Becoming a follower of God through Jesus Christ leads us to true happiness.

Find out more about this Santa Clarita church at http://www.HeartoftheCanyons.com.

WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO? by Ray Eddy

2010-06-15T11:39:00.000-07:00

What keeps you from becoming a Christian? Perhaps it is because no one has ever told you about God and of His gift of new life given to us through His Son Jesus. If that is true in your case, read John 3:16 and let God’s Spirit speak to your heart.

I find a lot of people who believe in God and even believe that Jesus was His Son, and yet they have not accepted the offer of Salvation found in John 3:16. Their question is not what ‘What do I have to do?’ But ‘What do I have to give up?’ They are afraid they will have to stop doing some of the things they are doing that they find pleasurable. Nothing in this world is greater than, or better than, or more pleasurable than having a relationship with God. Your eternal soul is at stake.

In Matthew 16:24-26 Jesus says; “If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me” (“I knew I’d have to give up something,” read on), “for whoever desires to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? …”

Do what you have to do and stop worrying about what God may no longer want you to keep doing. Receive Jesus as your Savior!

Looking for churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons Church.

A NEW COAT OF PAINT by Ray Eddy

2010-06-07T15:05:00.000-07:00

For the past few days my wife and I have been redoing our bedroom and adjoining bath. Part of this was applying a new coat (and color) of paint to both areas. I have to admit it not only looks different, it also looks better.

Buried somewhere under that new coat of paint is the old color, but now you can’t see it, and it looks brand new. But if you scrape away the new paint, the old will reappear.

People sometimes treat their lives with a new coat of paint. They make some outward physical changes and maybe some new attitudes and actions. To look at them they now look different (and sometimes even better). But underneath their new exterior is hidden the old self. If you scrape against it, the old will reappear.

Life cannot be permanently changed by simply applying a ‘new cost of paint’. No matter what we do, the imprint of the ‘way of the world’ will remain upon us. The only way to eradicate the old and discover the new is found in Romans 12:1-2: “Do not be conformed to this world [a new coat of paint?], but, be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Verse 1 tells us how to renew our mind, by: “presenting your bodies as a living sacrifice holy, acceptable to God.”

Check out John 3:16 and start your spiritual makeover today.

Find out more about this Santa Clarita church at http://www.HeartoftheCanyons.com.

HE LOVES EVEN YOU! by Ray Eddy

2010-05-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

God has a plan for your life.

There once was a man named William Cowper. He was not a Christian. His life was in shambles, and he was filled with despair, so much so that he decided to take his life by swallowing poison. He became terribly ill, but did not die. He then bought a gun and tried to shoot himself. But the gun would not fire. So he threw it away, got a rope and tried to hang himself. The rope broke. In utter desperation, Cowper hired a carriage in London and instructed the driver to take him to the Thames River. He planned to jump in and drown himself. But because of a thick fog, the driver could not find the river and became hopelessly lost.

Cowper exited the carriage and found himself near where he lived. He went back to his room where his eyes fell upon a Bible. He opened it and began to read. The book told him of a Heavenly Father who loved even William Cowper. Remembering all his recent failed attempts to end his life, Cowper embraced Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. In gratitude he wrote these words in his wonderful hymn, “God moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform.”

Has life seemingly lost purpose for you? Read John 3:16 in the Bible and discover that God loves ‘even you’ and has a plan for your life.

Find out more about this Santa Clarita church at http://www.HeartoftheCanyons.com.

AND THAT'S THE REST OF THE STORY by Ray Eddy

2010-05-10T14:43:00.000-07:00

You may recognize these words as coming from a man named Paul Harvey. He loved to tell stories that had a twist at the end, an unexpected conclusion. Many stories in the Bible are like that. I read one this week in the book of Judges.

This story concerns a man who was known as Jubal-Baal. He ruled Israel for many years. During his lifetime he had seventy sons and one son born of a prostitute. His name was Abinadab. After the death of Jubal-Baal, Abinadab persuaded Israel that he would be a better ruler over them than any of the seventy sons of Jubal-Baal. They joined him as he slew all the sons but one, Jubal. Abinadab led Israel back into the worship of Baal.

Then God called Jubal to lead a rebellion against Abinadab and he was successful in slaying Abinadab and became ruler over Israel. He restored the worship of the true God and ruled over Israel for several years.

What’s the rest of the story you ask? Jubal’s father, Jubal-Baal, was a man who, without swords, led 300 men in a great victory over the Midionites.

You know him better by his earlier name, Gideon. And that’s the rest of the story. You can read all about it in the Book of Judges.

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MISCELLANEOUS THOUGHTS ABOUT MOTHERS by Ray Eddy

2010-05-07T15:23:00.000-07:00

A MOTHER…
* MAKES A HOUSE A HOME.
* ALWAYS BELIEVES IN HER CHILDREN.
* WILL ALWAYS PRAY FOR HER WAYWARD CHILD.
* ALWAYS SERVES AS A GOOD EXAMPLE FOR HER CHILDREN.
* WEEPS OVER HER CHILD’S SKINNED KNEE.
* TEACHES HER CHILDREN TO HONOR THEIR FATHER.
* CAN DETECT INSTANTLY WHEN HER CHILDREN TELL A FALSEHOOD.
* TEACHES HER CHILDREN GOOD MORAL VALUES.
* IS NOT EASILY REPLACED BY A NANNY OR DAY-CARE.
* NEVER LAUGHS AT HER CHILDREN, ONLY WITH THEM.
* RULES HER HOUSEHOLD BY THE AUTHORITY OF LOVE.
* DOESN’T KEEP A RECORD OF MIS-BEHAVIOR.
* REWARDS HER CHILDREN FOR THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS.
* IS SMART ENOUGH NOT TO HELP HER CHILD WITH HOMEWORK.
* TEACHES HER CHILDREN ABOUT GOD.
* NEVER ASKS FOR MORE THAN SHE IS WILLING TO GIVE.
* MAKES HER HEART A CLASSROOM FOR HER CHILDREN.
* NEVER STOPS WORRYING ABOUT THE WELFARE OF HER CHILDREN.
* MAKES GOOD AROMAS ARISE FROM HER KITCHEN.

Why not do something nice for her this coming Sunday, on Mother’s Day?

Find out more about this Santa Clarita church at http://HeartoftheCanyons.com.

THE MAN IN THE MIRROR by Ray Eddy

2010-05-04T13:51:00.000-07:00

When I was a teenager, I used to go once in awhile to Funland on the Beach in San Francisco. I remember especially the Fun House. They had mirrors inside that distorted your reflection. One made you skinny and tall, another made you short and fat. Still another made you look like a cardboard figure. As I said, I haven’t been in a Fun House in a long time. But I think someone put one of those mirrors in my house. The following, by John T. West Jr. explains what happens to my reflection.

THE MIRROR
The other day, I happened by chance, as I passed a mirror, to give it a glance.

And I wondered who that old man could be. Who with his mouth wide open, was looking at me.

His bald head was sprinkled with a little gray fuzz, and he wasn’t at all handsome (like I always was).

He looked like a sack of mis-mated parts, put together without aid of instructions or charts.

And while I know that my shoulders don’t slump, this person’s were misshapen in one ugly lump.

Now if that was my image, I only can say, they don’t make mirrors like they did in my day.

For an accurate description of what you really look like, look into God’s Word. James 1:22-25

Looking for churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons Church.

FROM BLAH, TO 'TADA' by Ray Eddy

2010-04-29T18:06:00.000-07:00

Several years ago we bought a buffet. It was not new in fact it was almost a collectible. We had it in the house for awhile, but when we remodeled it went out in the storage shed. While there the weather got to it. One door came loose and the top was ruined by rain dripping down on to it. It was really in a ‘blah’ condition. It was either throw it out or attempt to restore it to a usable condition. We decided to attempt to restore it. It took a lot of work but with a lot of sanding and wood filler and staining and some painting and fixing the door we returned it to a usable condition and was able to bring it back into the house. As I looked at in its restored condition I thought to myself it has gone from Blah to ‘Tada.’

Our lives are a lot like that old buffet. Once, through Adam, we had a place in God’s house. But sin moved us out and at the same time it ruined us. We were no longer of any use to God. But He did not leave us in that ‘blah’ condition, we became His workmanship and He set about bringing us back to a condition in which we could serve Him. He did not just restore, He transformed us by the renewing of His Spirit. He stripped away the old man and made us a new creation in Christ Jesus.

One day he will display us to the angels in heaven and I can hear Him saying, “TADA.”

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BECAUSE I SAID SO! by Ray Eddy

2010-04-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

In May is Mother’s Day and in June is Father’s Day, but when is Parent’s Day? I don’t know if there is one but there ought to be. Ephesians 6:1 admonishes children to “…obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.”

This doesn’t always happen. Consider the following E-mail dated 1999:

Whenever your kids are out of control, you can take comfort in the thought that the great Creator had parenting issues. After creating heaven and earth, God created Adam and Eve. And the first thing He said to them was “Don’t.” Don’t what?” Adam replied. “Don’t eat the forbidden fruit,” God said. “Forbidden fruit? We got forbidden fruit? Hey Eve…we got forbidden fruit” said Adam. “No way” said Eve. “Yes WAY!” Adam responded. “Don’t eat the fruit,” said God. “Why” Adam asked? “Because I’m your Creator and I said so!” said God, wondering why He hadn’t stopped after making elephants.

Just a few minutes later God saw the kids taking an apple break and was angry. “Didn’t I tell you not to eat the fruit?” the First Parent asked. “Uh huh” Adam replied.

“Then why did you?” God asked. “I dunno” Eve answered. “She started it,” Adam said. “Did not!” “Did so!” “DID NOT!”

Having had it with the two of them, God’s punishment was that Adam and Eve should have children of their own. Thus the pattern was set, and it has never changed.

Looking for churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons Church.

PAY YOUR TAXES! IT'S THE RIGHT THING TO DO

2010-04-12T13:24:00.000-07:00

How do you feel about paying taxes? If you are like most you resent it, because of the way tax money is misused by those who are elected to protect your interests and rights. If you don’t like the way it’s used do something about it when you vote for elected officials.

In Jesus’ time the Israelites resented paying taxes to a foreign government. In Matt. 22:17, they asked Jesus; “Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” They sought to trap Him into a yes or no answer which would either incur the wrath of the Roman government or the disappointment of his followers. Jesus, knowing their intentions, answered with a principle in v21; “Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and unto God the things that are God’s.”

We, like the Israelites, have a dual citizenship, one on earth and one in heaven. Jesus set forth the principle that we have a responsibility to both. As citizens of an earthly government our taxes provide many necessary benefits to us. Our public and property safety and public services are provided through taxes. All contribute to our well-being. Therefore, pay your taxes. ‘It’s the right thing to do.’

Our responsibility to “render unto God the things that are God’s,” requires treatment in a future Blog.

Find out more about this Santa Clarita church at http://HeartoftheCanyons.com

THE WORLD IN A NUTSHELL! by Ray Eddy

2010-04-06T13:00:00.000-07:00

The following figures are now outdated. They were accurate when they were compiled a few years ago.

Shrink 6+ billion people in the world into a village of 100 people. With maintaining the existing ratios, here is the world in a nutshell:

-57 Asians, 21 Europeans, 14 from North and South America, and 8 Africans.
-70 non-white
-70 non-Christian.
-6 control 50% of the world’s wealth; all are U.S. Citizens.
-70 are unable to read
-50 suffer from malnutrition.
-80 live in sub-standard housing
-1 attended college.

These figures should give us cause for concern regardless of our race or affluence. But, as a Christians, the one that you and I can do the most about are the 70 who are not Christian.

This figure indicates that we have not been diligent in obeying the commandment of the Lord to “Go into all the world and preach the gospel.” Mark 16:15. Granted, not all who hear will become Christians, but those who do not hear will never become Christians.

Jesus, when asked by His disciples about the end times, said in Matt. 24:14; “And the gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in all, the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.” What are you doing to hasten that day?

Looking for churches in Santa Clarita, check out Heart of the Canyons Church.

FLORA AND FAUNA AND CHRIST by Ray Eddy

2010-04-02T13:19:00.000-07:00

The Fig tree is seen in the life of Christ. He used it as an example of the rejection of the Jewish people of their Messiah, Himself.

The Sycamore tree is also found in Christ’s life. It was the tree Zacchaeas climbed up so he could see Jesus as He passed by. He wound up with Jesus as a guest for lunch.

Palm branches are connected with Jesus triumphal entry into Jesusalem on Palm Sunday. All the people praised and worshipped Him.

A flower, although not mentioned in the Bible, is closely associated with the resurrection of Jesus. I speak of the Easter lily. Its’ blooming each spring testifies to Christ victory over death, hell and the grave.

Here is my nomination for another bloom to commemorate Christ. I’ll call it the ‘Good Friday Blossom.’ It’s the Dogwood tree. The tree itself is slender, hard, and twisted which speaks of the suffering of Christ on the cross. Its blossom has two long petals and two short petals which form a cross. In the center of the outer ridge is what looks like nail prints, brown with rust and stained with blood. The heart of the flower appears as a crown of thorns. It is the perfect symbol of the sufferings of the Savior.

The earth and all that is in it testifies of Christ!

Find out more about this Santa Clarita church at http://HeartoftheCanyons.com

LORD, INCREASE OUR FAITH! by Ray Eddy

2010-03-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

As Christians, we are always being challenged in the area of our faith. We often find ourselves praying for the Lord to increase our faith. We are not alone in this request. Jesus told His disciples the conditions of forgiveness in Luke 17. They felt that their faith was insufficient (ever felt that way?). So they asked Jesus, in Luke 17:5; “Increase our faith.”

The reply which Jesus gave is good for us today when we feel we need our faith increased. He said in v6, even if your faith is as small as a mustard seed (the smallest of all seeds) it is sufficient to do great things. See Matt. 17:20.

2 Cor. 5:7 says; “the just shall walk by faith.” Our Christian life is one of spiritual growth in godliness. Paul tells us in 1 Tim. 4:7-8 that: “…exercise yourself rather to godliness for bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things.” The key word is ‘exercise.’ In order for faith to grow it must be exercised, daily.

Our request for God to increase our faith is met by God’s command to exercise the faith we have and then our faith will grow. Remember to be in God’s word daily for, “Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God." Rom. 10:17

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THE LORD'S PRAYER by Ray Eddy

2010-03-25T11:29:00.000-07:00

I found this in a church in Thousand Oaks a few years ago. I thought I would share it with you.

I cannot say “our” if I’m living only for myself.
I cannot say “Father” if I don’t act like His child.
I cannot say “Who art in heaven” if I’m laying up treasure here.
I cannot say “hallowed be Thy Name” if I’m not striving for holiness.
I cannot say “Thy Kingdom come” if I’m not doing my part to hasten the day.
I cannot say “Thy will be done” if I am disobedient to His word.
I cannot say “on earth as it is in heaven” if I’m unwilling to serve Him now.
I cannot say “give us our daily bread” if I’m not relying on Him to provide.
I cannot say “forgive us our trespasses” if I harbor a grudge toward any.
I cannot say “lead us not into temptation” if I place myself in its path.
I cannot say “deliver us from evil” if I don’t put on the whole armor of God.
I cannot say “Thine is the Kingdom” if I’m not loyal to the King.
I cannot attribute to Him “the power” if I fear what people may do.
I cannot ascribe to Him “the glory” if I am seeking honor for myself.
I cannot say “forever” if I am bound by the things of time.
“LORD, TEACH US TO PRAY” Luke 11:1
Anon

Looking for churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons Church.

HERE I COME, READY OR NOT! by Ray Eddy

2010-03-22T11:03:00.000-07:00

Most of you will remember from your childhood playing a game called ‘Hide & Seek.’ It’s still a popular game enjoyed by children today. As I recall the object of the game was to successfully hide so that the ‘seeker’ could not find you. The Seeker would count off some number and then say, ‘Ready, or not, here I come.’

There was always someone who couldn’t find a place to hide, and they would immediately be caught. Others did not choose a good place to hide and would be caught in just a few minutes. Then there were those the Seeker never found and eventually he would have to end the game by yelling, ‘Olly Olly Oxen Free,’ (or at least that’s what I think they said.) Everybody who hadn’t been found would then come out.

I see an analogy in Hide & Seek and in the second coming of Christ. He’s already warned us many times in the Bible that we should be ready for His coming, because ‘Ready or not,’ He’s coming. We must successfully hide in order to be ready at His coming. Some will think they are well hidden in their Christian parents or their works or in some false cult.

Gal. 3:2 tells us that the best place for us to be hiding is “in Christ in God.” “The trumpet of God will sound and the Lord will descend from heaven with a shout.” (I Thess. 4:18) Then the game will be over. Are you ready?

Find out more about this Santa Clarita church at http://www.HeartoftheCanyons.com

DEALING WITH TRANSITION! by Ray Eddy

2010-03-09T08:27:00.000-08:00

One definition of transition is: ‘A period of time when change is taking place.’ Musicians and singers experience it quite frequently when the music has a key change. It occurs as an almost immeasurable period of time.

Most transitions last longer. The transition from a child to an adult doesn’t seem to happen fast enough for the child. From the adult standpoint it happens much too fast.

Some transitions are happy and some are sad. Moving from one job to another for a pay raise is good. Losing a job and finding one which pays less, is not so good. The loss of a friend or loved one can be a difficult transition period whether they pass away or simply move away. Another trying transition period is moving your family to a new place to live. It often means losing old friends and acquiring new ones.

Whether simple or complex all transitions have to be dealt with. How we deal with them is a real test of our Christian character. Those transitions we view as adverse are the most difficult to cope with. During difficult transitions we need to:
* Seek to understand why the transition has taken place. No transition occurs without purpose. Knowing and accepting the purpose as rational will prevent us from becoming angry or morose.
* Ask God to give you His peace during the transition period. God’s peace will help us to not deal with it in an irrational manner, but as He desires.
* Go to God’s word. Rom. 8:28 is a good place to start.

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GO AHEAD AND LAUGH by Ray Eddy

2010-03-08T15:00:00.000-08:00

Most people today find very little in life to laugh about. With the economic recession, which has affected us all, life has taken on a more serious note. Guideposts magazine once quoted Zazu Pitts as saying; “Laughter is God’s hand upon a troubled world.” If the saying is true that ‘Laughter is the Best Medicine’ then we need to learn to laugh more.

Grenville Kliester wrote in the New York Inquirer; “What this country needs is not a new national anthem, or a Wall Street boom, but the ability to laugh spontaneously.” There was a time when you could go to the movies and expect to leave the theater having laughed ‘till your sides split.’ But not many movies are made like that today. With some movies, you come out more despondent then when you went in.

I don’t claim to have any solutions to our present day circumstances. I’m not sure that anyone can solve the American dilemma which we face today. I’m almost certain that man does not have the moral fortitude to do what needs to be done. Man’s moral character is corrupted by sin. As the Apostle Paul observed in the 7th chapter of Romans. “For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice.” (v.20)

Laughter, in and of itself, will not cure the world’s ills. But I believe the ability to laugh comes from a right relationship with God. And with that, we can, GO AHEAD AND LAUGH!

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'TH... 'TH... THAT'S ALL FOLKS by Ray Eddy

2010-02-24T11:10:00.000-08:00

Remember the Porky Pig cartoons? They would always end with Porky stuttering out those words. When he said that, we knew the cartoon was over, there were no more expectations. In a song by Peggy Lee, life seems to end that way, with no more expectations. She sings of all the things she has seen and done and in the end she says, “Is That All There Is?” She goes on to sing that if that’s all there is, in so many words, let’s ‘eat, drink and be merry’.

Many people go to church on a Sunday, and they see three-piece suits, golden crosses; people sing songs, participate in the offering, big choirs, and a message, hopefully about God. They think ‘Is that all there is?’

There is more to life; there is more to church than what happens on a Sunday morning. The ‘more’ to life is conditional to the ‘more’ on Sunday morning. And the ‘more’ on Sunday morning is conditional on our relationship with God. Is your relationship with Him on your terms or is it on His? As Christians, we are in church on Sunday morning because God changed our lives. That change is reflected in our daily living.

He changed our lives because we received Jesus as our Savior. Life takes on new meaning. Church takes on new meaning, because we’re no longer the person we used to be.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold. All things have become new.” (2 Cor. 5:17

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WHO? ME? by Ray Eddy

2010-02-22T11:27:00.000-08:00

Moses would not respond to God’s call to serve Him. To get his attention God created a burning bush. Only when Moses saw the burning bush did God get his attention. After reading the account in Genesis about this burning bush, I wrote the following:

SO WHO NEEDS A BURNING BUSH
ONCE I HEARD A MAN SAY I WISH I COULD SEE A BURNING BUSH,
AND LIKE MOSES. BE CALLED TO SOME IMPORTANT TASK.
I WOULD BE QUICK TO RESPOND AND PUT ALL OTHER THINGS BEHIND,
IF ONLY IN HIS PRESENCE I COULD BASK.

I CHOSE HIM LONG AGO TO BE MY SAVIOR AND MY GUIDE,
I’VE GONE TO CHURCH AND MY TITHE I’VE ALWAYS GIVEN,
I’VE SUNG IN THE CHOIR AND BEEN AN USHER.
AND I KNOW MY PLACE IS SECURE IN HEAVEN.

WHAT’S THAT YOU SAY? OF COURSE I’VE LISTENED TO HIS WORD.
AND YES, I’VE HEARD THE PASTOR AND HIS PREACHING,
AND I’VE FELT THE HOLY SPIRIT WIELD HIS SWORD.
MY HEART WAS STIRRED FOR I’VE LOVED THE PASTOR’S TEACHING.
DID I NOT HEAR HIS VOICE, YOU SAY, CALLING ME TO DO HIS WILL?
IT WAS NOT TO ME HE WAS SPEAKING.
AS I RECALL THERE WAS A TIME WHEN I THOUGHT SO, BUT STILL.
IT MUST HAVE BEEN ANOTHER HE WAS SEEKING.

BUT IF HE WANTS TO USE ME, WHAT MORE CAN I SAY,
JUST LET ME SEE THAT BURNING BUSH AND I’LL BE ON MY WAY.

DO YOU NEED A BURNING BUSH?

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LOVE IS OVERRATED! by Ray Eddy

2010-02-11T18:18:00.000-08:00

Once a year on Feb. 14, the world is enamored with the idea of love. But the world’s idea of love is overrated. The world only knows three kinds of love. One, ‘I love you for the way you make me feel.’ Two, ‘I love you because I like the way you look.’ Three, ‘I will love you if you act the way I want.’ All of these fall short of the way the Bible defines love. Biblical love is the love God has toward us and the love we are to have toward one another. It is ‘I love you in spite of how you make me feel, or how you look, or what you are able to do for me.’

Biblical love is expressed not in a feeling, but in action. Love is not given because it’s deserved. Love is given even when it’s not deserved. God loves us even though there is every reason for Him not to love us. The Bible tells us that as an act of God’s love He died for us while we were yet sinners. Unarguably, the greatest verse in Gods’ Word is found in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.”

On this Valentine’s Day may you receive the fullness of God’s love by believing in His Son, Jesus Christ.

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HOW DO YOU LIVE? by Ray Eddy

2010-02-03T11:19:00.000-08:00

Some people live in the past. They spend their life either wishing things were the way they used to be or regretting things that happened that haunt them. People who live in the past have no life in the present.

Then there are those people who live only for the future. They either have no satisfaction in the present and hope that tomorrow will bring better times, or they have no peace because they fear the future. Their lives are filled with ‘What Ifs.’

People who live in the present ignoring the past and the future, live as though life is all about them. Their philosophy is ‘Eat, Drink, and be Merry for Tomorrow we die.’ They seek to fill their lives with things that they believe will make them happy. But the more they get, the less fulfilled they feel. So they constantly seek new things and sink deeper in debt.

The way people live reveals their belief about God. Without a belief in God, people are dead in trespasses and sin. They live under the control of the god of this world, the devil. (Ref. Eph. 2)

When we respond to God’s invitation to have relationship with Him through Jesus, His Son, we find our lives are transformed. We are no longer puppets of the devil.

We find that we can live in the present, without dwelling on the past, making preparations for the future.

“FOR TO ME TO LIVE IS CHRIST” (Phil. 1:21)

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COMMON IS NOT SO COMMON ANYMORE by Ray Eddy

2010-01-14T13:03:00.000-08:00

There was a time when young people were taught the necessary things that all people held in common. Things like:

COMMON SENSE
-If it says “Wet Paint,” don’t test it with your finger.
-If it says “Danger,” avoid it.
-If someone says, “It’s hot,” don’t touch it.
-If you drop it, pick it up.
-If you take it, put it back where you found it. Etc.

COMMON COURTESY
-If you offend someone say, “I’m Sorry.”
-If you want something say, “Please.”
-If someone does you a favor say, “Thank You.” Etc.

COMMON MORALITY
-If it’s the law, obey it.
-If it’s not yours, don’t take it.
-If it’s not true, don’t say it. Etc.

At least three generations have passed since these things and many more like them were regularly taught in the home and in the classroom. They have long-ceased from the classrooms and also from most homes. All of these ‘common’ things have their roots in God’s Word. God’s Word is no longer commonly found in the classroom and has ceased being read in most homes today.

This may explain why we now live in an era where few practice common sense, or common courtesy or common morality.

Isn’t modern society wonderful?

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START THE NEW YEAR RIGHT by Ray Eddy

2009-12-30T11:13:00.000-08:00

Have you made any New Year resolutions? Were they the same ones you made last year and the year before that? When it comes to living up to our New Years resolutions, most of the time we fail to keep them. Our resolutions may be good, but we’re not strong enough in our flesh to keep them.

The Bible tells us that our flesh is weak and focused on the wrong things. We do not rule our flesh, our flesh rules us. The Apostle Paul tells us in the 7th chapter of Romans that ‘no good thing dwells within us’ and ‘that which I would do, I do not and that which I would not do, I do.’ The flesh is evil.

Our sinful flesh cannot be reformed by a resolution. It must be transformed by a commitment. That commitment is found in Romans 12:1 where God’s mercy implores us to commit ourselves to God as a ‘living sacrifice.’ When we do, we will find that the flesh no longer controls us. As we read God’s Word and allow the Holy Spirit to quicken it to our hearts, we will find ourselves transformed. Jesus explains it as ‘born again.’

Paul tells us in Ephesians 4:22-24 that Christ has taught us to ‘Put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind. And that you put on the new man created according to God, in righteousness and true holiness.’ Start the New Year right. Make a commitment to God.

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DO YOU KNOW THE WAY? by Ray Eddy

2009-12-21T13:47:00.000-08:00

No, I’m not asking for directions to Santa Fe. I’m asking, do you know the way to find true meaning in life, the way to inner peace, the way to hope for the future, the way to forgiveness for the past, and the way to purpose in the present? Everyday life presents opportunities for us to choose which way we will go. A poem by John Oxenham challenges us to make correct choices.

“To every man there openeth a Way, and Ways, and a Way.
And the High Soul climbs the High Way,
And the Low Soul gropes the Low.
And in between on the misty flats, the rest drift to and fro.
But to every man there openeth a High Way and a Low.
And every man decideth the Way his soul shall go.”

Perhaps you are like Thomas and unsure about the way you should go.
He asked Jesus in I John 14:5b; “…how can we know the way? Jesus answered him in verse 6; “Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Which way will your soul go when this life is over? Choose the high way;
choose Jesus.

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LIFE GOES ON FOR AN ITTY BITTY WHILE by Ray Eddy

2009-12-14T14:52:00.000-08:00

James 4:14 says; “Your life is like a mist, you can see it for a short time, but then it goes away.” Nobody lives one moment longer than what God allows. In Psalms 139:16 David declares; “All the days planned for me were written in your book before I was one day old.” Only God knows how long anyone will live.

This makes life very precious. No matter how many years we live it is but a moment in eternity. Peter tells us in 2 Peter 3:8 that; “with the Lord one day is as a thousand years and a thousand years as one day.”

Psalms 90:12 says; “Teach us how short our lives really are so that we may live wisely.” In Ecclesiates Solomon tells us that the way man lives is vanity. There is no profit from labor, the eye is never satisfied, there is nothing new under the sun and that those who come after us will not remember us.

In God’s eyes no one lives longer than they should and no one dies untimely. What is important is how we live the time that God has given us and our relationship with God when we leave this earth.

Solomon concludes therefore in the last chapter of Ecclesiates; “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandants, for this is the whole duty of man.” The wise way to live is as God’s adopted son or daughter through believing in Jesus Christ as our Savior.

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IF NOW WAS THEN by Ray Eddy

2009-11-30T11:01:00.000-08:00

Imagine that you were living in the time of Christ. How would you have reacted to Him if He passed through the place where you lived? Would you have wondered what all the excitement was about? Would you have gone out to the street and watched Him go by? Would you have left your job to go hear Him when He spoke? Would you have stood wide-eyed and heart-filled with wonder? Would you have wanted to get His autograph?

Or, would you have wondered why the authorities didn’t step in before things got out of hand? Would you have questioned His association with some of ‘those kinds of people?’ Would you have doubted some of the stories regarding His miraculous works and the testimony of those who were healed by His word or the touch of His hand? Would you have greeted Him with rejoicing one day and called for His execution a few days later? Would you have doubts about His claims of divinity when He claimed to be the Son of God who came ‘to seek and to save the lost.’

But now is not then. Now you live in an enlightened age and those decisions are mute. Jesus doesn’t live today. Or does He? Read Revelation 1:17-18. He is alive today and is knocking at your heart’s door! What will your decision be?

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MAÑANA IS GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME! by Ray Eddy

2009-11-24T13:32:00.000-08:00

When I was a child my mother called me ‘The Just a Minute Kid.’ When ever she asked me to do something my response was always, ‘Just a Minute.’ Of course it was always more than a minute. When I did respond it was because I recognized the change in her tone of voice.

My experience with procrastination began at an early age. It’s not something I learned. I believe I was born with it. This was first evidenced by my reluctance to leave the womb on time. It’s not a desirable trait, and I have to work hard not to practice it.

Mañana - putting off today what can be done tomorrow, can have some devastating results. When I was a child it was usually a swat on the behind. But if I put off going to the dentist or the doctor, the result could be far worse, even to the point of death due to a disease that went undetected.

Natural procrastination affects many people, but a lot also practice spiritual procrastination. Many have heard the gospel and said “I’ll accept the Lord when I’m older. Right now I want to experience what life has to offer.” This delay may result in spiritual death. But receiving Jesus brings eternal life with God. Read I Cor. 5:2 “Now is the day of salvation.”

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PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE! by Ray Eddy

2009-11-12T14:57:00.000-08:00

A famous musician was once asked how he learned to play so well. His reply was, “Practice, practice, practice.” Everybody knows how important practice is if you want to excel in any activity. Every golf ‘duffer’ knows that his lack of skills is due to a lack of adequate practice.

What about your attempt to live the Christian life? How much time do you spend practicing the basic principles? Principles like: daily Bible reading and study, prayer, regular church attendance and obedience to God. It is easier to embrace Biblical principles than it is to live up to them. That’s why practice is so important.

Christians are often accused of being ‘too preachy,’ and when they don’t practice what they preach they are rightly called hypocrites. In other words, they talk the talk, but they don’t walk the walk. Anybody can pick up a golf club and swing it and look professional… until they put the ball down and attempt to hit it.

Our life is lived on a 24/7 basis, and our Christian life should be practiced 24/7 as well. Don’t be content to be a ‘duffer’ when it comes to living for Christ. Remember, ‘Practice makes Perfect.’

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THE TRAGIC WEDDING By Paul Luna

2009-11-05T15:37:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you of a tragic wedding day story. Not Long ago a father was setting up for his daughter’s wedding at the beach. With just a few hours to go the father had made sure that everything was perfectly set –up for the ceremony to take place at sunset. The decorations where in place, the banquet table was prepared, the sand sculptures had been finished and the cake sat on it pedestal. Then something tragic happened. As the father stood admiring all that had been done a flock of seagulls dive bombed the wedding cake. The seagulls were beyond ruthless as they tore apart the cake spreading it on the ground and fighting over every bite. The father was horrified as he beat back the birds in a vain effort to protect his daughter’s wedding cake. At last the he fended off the now fattened birds, but the cake was completely ruined.

The baker, seeing the anguish of the father, quickly returned to his bakery and with no time to spare whipped up another cake with everything he had. The cake, while not as admirable as the first cake, was beautiful and the best the baker could do with such little time.

He loaded the cake into his van and raced back to the beach where he found the father still saddened by earlier events. “Good news!” the baker told the father, “I have made you another cake free of charge to replace the one that was lost.” The father was excited by this news and quickly hurried to the bakers van. But upon opening the doors to the van the father’s face changed to anger. “This is not the cake I wanted!” he yelled, “I ordered a cake that was shaped like a clam!”

Recently, I was in the position of being the baker. Something went wrong, and I tried to help resolve the problem. Unfortunately, the outcome was less than perfect. In the end people only realized what was missing and not what was there. Has that ever happened to you? Have you ever gone out of your way to help others and received no thanks? Don’t worry; your effort did not go unnoticed. Our father in heaven sees all of our works. “And anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name, just because you belong to me, will surely be rewarded.” Mark 9:41. Do not look for man’s praise, but know that our father in Heaven is praising you. And, when someone does something for you, remember to be grateful for what they have done even if it is not exactly what you had hoped for.

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A FIRM RESOLVE by Jeff Steele

2009-09-21T14:57:00.000-07:00

“But Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king’s choice food or with the wine which he drank.” Daniel 1:8a

Daniel found himself taken captive to Babylon as a teenager and put into a program where his name was changed and he was taught Babylonian language, culture and religion. The goal was to brainwash Daniel and his three friends. Daniel and his friends were concerned that the food either violated God’s laws by serving something that was forbidden, or that the food and wine had been offered to the Babylonian gods before being served to them.

That Daniel made up his mind, or literally that he set it upon his heart, that he wouldn’t defile himself with the king’s food is significant. He resolved in his heart to do what was right in God’s eyes and would pay whatever price that obedience cost, even his execution if he refused to cooperate. That’s a hard decision for anyone, much less a 17 year old.

Let me ask you today, where have you set your heart to obey God and see it thru until the end, no matter what it might cost you? If you’re a single adult or you’re a young person, have you set your heart upon staying sexually pure until your wedding night? Only a firm conviction of your heart to do right will give you the strength to stay faithful. Men, are you willing to do whatever it takes, including becoming accountable and getting rid of the internet if necessary, to stay pure and avoid pornography? Only a firm conviction of your heart to do right will keep you faithful.

How strong is your commitment to be honest and not cut corners at work or on your taxes? Only the firm conviction of your heart to be completely honesty will keep you from giving in to the pressure from people around you or your own fallen nature, to lie or cheat for the sake of money. Sadly, too many Christians are faithful right up to the point where it touches their wallet or starts costing them money.

Like Daniel and his friends, we need to set our hearts to do right and make it our firm conviction to what God has asked us to do, no matter what the cost.

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THE BEST SCHOOL IN TOWN by Paul Luna

2009-08-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

Today was Mason’s first day of Kindergarten, and thus his first time using the God Time Cards that Kidz Quest provides. What is the verdict? Mason loves them. He loves them so much that he wanted to go over the material twice! That is exactly what we did. Not only did we make one prayer Journal together, we made a separate one that he could write in whenever he wants.

Ever since the birth of our first child, Mason, the words of Jesus, “Let the little children come to me. Don’t keep them away,” (Matthew 19:14) stood out to me. In response my wife and I instill in our children’s hearts lessons and stories about God and His people. We read children’s Bible storybooks and read through children’s Bibles with them. We also have deep discussions about God, Jesus and man. The results are great! My children have a natural hunger to learn, and teaching them what I know is very rewarding. It deepens our relationships, builds fond memories and helps them to know God.

The best lessons in life do not come from a child’s classroom or Sunday school class, but at home. Arnold Glasow says it best, “The family fireside is the best of schools.” If you are not using the God Time Cards or you started and for one reason or another stopped, it is time to start doing them again. God Time cards are designed to help your elementary age child begin the habit of seeking after God on their own and personalizing their relationship with Him. Take advantage of this resource. The eternal value for both you and your child is worth the investment!

Ultimately the best School in Town is your very own home.

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PRINCESSES AND PRINCES by Paul Luna

2009-08-19T08:42:00.000-07:00

Tonight and every night I remind my daughter that she can be a princess if she wants to be one. I’m not feeding her some fairy tale dream; rather I am very serious when I tell her that she can be a princess. Not only can our daughters be princesses, but our sons can be princes if they choose to be.

God is Lord of all things visible and invisible; He created the world and all the heavens. “Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spoke, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.” Psalms 33:8-9. The Bible tells us that God made Heaven His throne and the earth His footstool (Isaiah 66:1). God is King!

Everyone who accepts Christ as Lord and Savior is brought into God’s family. They receive a new identity as the sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father, and are children of God. “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” 1 John 3:1a. Rom 8:15b says that we “received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” The word adoption in the New Testament Roman legal terms refers to a legal action by which a person takes into their family a person not their own, but with the purpose of treating them as their own. Legally this child is entitled to all rights and privileges of a natural-born child. Each of us who accepts Christ is adopted into God’s family with Him as our Father.

God is not an impersonal Father, but a Dad who loves His children. He desires a relationship with you and your family, so that He may share His eternal wealth and blessings. This month teach your children to know and love God. Tell them that He is their heavenly Father who loves them and that in Christ they are princes and princesses.

“I come with joy, a child of God, forgiven, loved, and free, the life of Jesus to recall, in love laid down for me.” (Quoted from Come with Joy, A Child of God by Brian Wren)

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A HEART OF WORSHIP by Jeff Steele

2009-07-28T11:28:00.000-07:00

David is called a man after God’s own heart, and one of the chief areas his heart was on display was in his worship. David was passionate in his worship of God and it can be seen in several areas of his life.

His Public Worship
In 2 Samuel 13-14, we are told when David brought the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem, that David was dancing before the Lord and was worshipping Him with shouting and music. It didn’t matter that people were watching him; David was determined to worship God publicly - without shame. When his wife Michal rebuked him for his public worship, David replied that he will celebrate before the Lord, no matter what she thought. God wants us to be willing to worship him publicly, whether that means standing, lifting our hands or kneeling. We need to be more focused on what God thinks of our worship than what people think about us when we worship.

His Sacrificial Worship
In 2 Samuel 24:15-24, David was commanded to build an altar on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite, because that was the place God stopped the plague on Israel. When David told Araunah what he wanted, Araunah offered to give David everything he needed: the threshing floor, the oxen to sacrifice and the wood for the offering. But David refused to take it without paying for it, telling Araunah, “I will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God which cost me nothing.” David’s passion for God wouldn’t allow him to worship God on the cheap. We need to give willingly and sacrificially to God because our God is great and awesome and is worthy of such sacrifices. Cheap worship isn’t real worship.

His Lavish Worship
Finally, despite his desire to build a temple for God, David was told by God he couldn’t (2 Samuel 7:1-17). But that didn’t stop David from giving lavishly to the temple that his son Solomon would one day build. In 1 Chronicles 22, David gathered stone and timber and gave huge amounts of gold, silver, iron and bronze so that everything would be ready for Solomon to build the temple. David’s lavish giving inspired the leaders and people of Israel to give lavishly as well (1 Chronicles 29:6-9). Our God is so great there are times when only extravagant worship will do, and it is this lavish worship that will touch the hearts of people around us.

David lays out for us what a heart of real worship looks. So do a heart exam today, and ask yourself, “Am I willing to worship publicly? Is my worship sacrificial? Have I ever worshipped God lavishly?” These are the marks of true worship for the believer who has a heart like David’s, the man after God’s own heart.

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MY LITTLE ARROW by Paul Luna

2009-07-20T11:51:00.000-07:00

This past June my wife and I had our third child, Jaxsen. His older brother and sister just love him. He has been such a blessing to our family! Sitting back this evening I am reminded what Solomon said, “Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him.” Psalm 127:3 (NIV).

Children are a reward from God. All of our children are to be treasured, loved and appreciated. They are more than just little people; they are a gift from God trusted into our care. God must think a lot of Kimmy and I to entrust us with such precious gifts. But what are we to do with these gifts?

Solomon goes on to say that “Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior’s hands. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them!” Psalm 127:4-5a. As an arrow must be carefully aimed, a child must also be carefully trained. It takes a long time to aim an arrow, but once it is on target, it can be released and will fly in a straight path.

I encourage you to fire your children at the heart of God. Teach them to know and love Jesus and to love and serve others. Your influence will have a greater impact on them than any other.

What happens at home is more important than what happens at church.

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WHERE IS YOUR HOPE

2009-07-07T13:48:00.000-07:00

“Now it came about after these things, that God tested Abraham, and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” He said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you.” Genesis 22:1-2

This is one of the most compelling events in scripture: God asks Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac as a burnt offering. Why would God ask Abraham to do that when human sacrifice is condemned throughout the Bible? God had a very good reason. Abraham and Sarah waited 25 years for Isaac, the child of promise, to be born. Now, 10 or 15 years later, Abraham begins to look at Isaac and say, “Here is my future. Everything depends on this boy.” God put Abraham through the toughest test in his life to teach him that his future didn’t depend on Isaac, but on the God who made the promise and gave him Isaac.

Over time, Abraham’s love for Isaac began to crowd out his love for God. Isaac became a rival for Abraham’s affection. God will not have any rivals. Abraham then had a choice: hold on to Isaac no matter what or be willing to let go and obey God by sacrificing his son. Abraham chose to obey God, even though he didn’t understand what God was doing. He chose to act in faith and trust God to work things out. God intervened and saved Isaac, and Abraham learned his lesson that God had to come first. God then poured out greater blessings than ever before on Abraham for his obedience.

Is there anything in your life that is crowding God out to compete for your affection? A relationship? A job? A habit? A hobby? The internet? We are to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and we can’t do that if something else has captured our hearts.

What happens if we choose to let go of this rival for our hearts and seek God? The best blessing of all: God gives us more of Himself. Seeking God first never leaves us with less. It always draws us closer to God, and He fills our lives with more of Himself. So let go of whatever is competing with God for your affections, and you will discover a deeper, more satisfying Christian life.

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MIRACLES AREN'T ENOUGH by Jeff Steele

2009-06-30T11:54:00.000-07:00

“And behold the whole city came out to meet Jesus; and when they saw Him, they implored Him to leave their region.” Matthew 9:34

Most people in our modern scientific age believe that if they could just see a true miracle, all the objections against belief in God would melt away, and multitudes would become Christians on the spot. The reality is quite different. Miracles in and of themselves are not a guarantee of faith in anyone, not in Jesus’ day and certainly not in our day.

When Jesus landed in the region of the Gadarenes, He was a confronted by two demon-possessed men, who had haunted this region for sometime. They wandered the hills and the graveyards naked, were extremely violent and terrorized the people who lived there. At times, people couldn’t walk the main road due to their threats.

When Jesus got out of the boat, these men immediately confronted Him. Jesus rebuked the legion of demons in the men and sent them into a herd of swine grazing nearby. The pigs rushed down the hill and off the cliff into the sea and drowned. When word reached the city about what happened, many came out to see Jesus. They found the two men, seated, clothed and in their right mind (Mark 5:15).

Our first thought is that surely revival followed with many people from Gadara trusting in Jesus. But it was just the opposite. Instead of embracing Jesus, the people of the area begged Him to leave. An actual miracle done in their midst did not compel them to believe. It merely hardened their hearts against Jesus and made them want Him gone from their town.

Miracles have never guaranteed faith (look at Moses and Pharaoh) and never will. What brings us to faith is the conviction of sin and the humbling of our hearts before the Lord. That is a work of the Holy Spirit. We need to ask Him to work in the hearts of unbelievers to help them see their sin and lostness. That’s what brings them to Christ. Miracles alone aren’t enough.

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A SURPRISING FAITH by Jeff Steele

2009-06-22T15:23:00.000-07:00

“And he was saying, ‘Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom.’ And He said to him, ‘Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise.’” Luke 23:42-43

Our familiarity with the stories in scripture sometimes blinds us to the true depth of their meaning. Such is the case with the thief on the cross. The scripture says that after taunting Jesus in the morning, he had a change of heart as the day wore on. Something in the way Jesus faced death grabbed his heart. Later in the day, he rebuked his fellow thief and called out to Jesus for help. He asked Jesus to remember him when Jesus came in His kingdom. Jesus assured him that that very day he would be with Him in Paradise.

What we often fail to recognize is the great irony of this exchange. Here is a man dying on a cross for crimes he committed, calling out to another man dying on a cross right next to him! Don’t you think it’s strange to call out to a dying man to save yourself from dying? Why would he ask Jesus to remember him in His kingdom when it didn’t look like Jesus could save Himself?

This is great faith birthed into the heart of the thief on the cross. Despite all the outward evidence before his eyes, he recognized that Jesus was no ordinary man. He understood that whatever happened that day, death would not be the last word on Jesus’ life. With little knowledge to go on, he managed to cry out in faith to the only one who could truly help him. And Jesus responded by promising him a place in Paradise with Him that very day.

Don’t let your familiarity with these events blind you to the great implications of what faith in Jesus can do, even in hopeless situations. The thief’s faith in Christ was rewarded with a place in heaven and the forgiveness of his sins. Asking a dying man to save you doesn’t make sense. But Jesus gave the man far more than he could have imagined. We now serve a living Jesus. Let’s be people of faith in our daily lives, trusting Jesus even when we can’t see how it will work out.

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INSTILL A DESIRE TO KNOW JESUS by Paul Luna

2009-06-15T14:08:00.000-07:00

“One day some parents brought their little children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But when the disciples saw this, they scolded the parents for bothering him. Then Jesus called for the children and said to the disciples, ‘Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.’” Luke 18:15-17.

While Jesus walked on Earth he encouraged parents to bring their children to him. He applauded the children for having a child-like faith. Jesus wants us to bring our children to him so that one day we will have the pleasure of leading our children into a relationship with Him. Are you aware that more than 50% of Christians choose to follow Jesus between ages 5 and 9? From the moment children are born, God wants their parents to instill a passion for Him to help them build strong, lasting friendships with Jesus. Here are some suggestions on how to do that:

Model a life committed to prayer and discovery for your children. Let your kids overhear your daily talks with God. Take time to speak about the ways God answers your prayers. Also, read to your children and let them see you reading the Bible. Model a love for Scripture by letting your kids see you read (and live) it regularly.

Emphasize that your child needs to make wise choices. Show your child that the Bible is relevant personally and will help him or her make the wise choice. Trust and follow Jesus. Apply a specific biblical message to a child’s situation. For example, if your child is afraid, explain that the Bible says God will never leave them.

Encourage your children to trust God -- no matter what. Teach your children to trust Jesus during tough times. Remind your children that He is their Father and Savior who loves and guides them.

Explain to your kids that Jesus wants them to treat others the way they want to be treated. Tell your children they should show God’s love to those around them, care enough to put others before them and be the right friend to those beside them.

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THE BEST LESSONS IN LIFE by Paul Luna

2009-06-01T11:59:00.000-07:00

Late Friday night I was watching a movie when my son, Mason, appeared at the top of the stairs crying. I picked him up, sat him on the couch and asked him what was wrong. He said he had a bad dream about a frog that jumped on his bed and ate him. Even worse, I wasn’t there to step on the frog and “pop” him. While you and I might find this humorous, I was reminded to let him know that while I can’t always be there for him, God is always there for him.

After I wiped away the tears, I told Mason that sometimes his daddy has bad dreams too, but I know God is watching over me and he loves me always. We talked about how God is more powerful than the scariest monsters in our dreams and has a huge army of super-strong angels. Mason pointed out to me that he cannot see the angels or God. I reassured him they are there. After all, we can’t see the air we blow out of our mouth, but we can feel it hit our hand. After I said that and added a few tickles to the tummy, Mason was free from worry as I tucked him back into bed.

As a parent, we need to look for opportunities to teach our children spiritual lessons. In fact, the Bible tells parents to, “Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up,” Deut 6:7. Some of the most important lessons your child learns will not be taught in a Sunday Small Group, but will be taught in the form of a discussion between you and child.

I encourage you to take the little and big events that happen in your and your child’s life and make them lessons. Use life’s circumstances to teach them about humility, honesty, integrity, friendship, courage and kindness. Sometimes the biggest lessons in life are taught in the small conversations we have with our kids.

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THE TREASURE OF THE GOSPEL

2009-05-27T14:36:00.000-07:00

I am always amazed at the incredible variety of ways God works to bring people to Himself. Jesus illustrates this fact in two of His parables in Matthew 13:44-45, the Parable of the Treasure in the Field, and the Parable of the Pearl of Great Price.

The Treasure in the Field

In this parable, a man who was not looking for treasure stumbled upon one accidentally. But when he realized what he found, he sold everything he had to buy the field and possess the treasure.

The Pearl of Great Price

Here, a man has been on a quest for one pearl of great value. After a long search, he finally found that one pearl for which he had been searching. He too sold all he had to buy and possess the pearl.

The Greatest Treasure of All

There are some important truths we can gain from these parables. First, people find God in different ways, some by surprise; some after a long search. In both cases God was working to bring them to Himself. And second, in both cases the treasure of the gospel was worth giving all they had to possess. Nothing we possess in this world matches the value of the gospel and knowing Christ as our Savior. Do you value the treasure of the gospel? Do you realize how great a treasure you possess and how God orchestrated events in your life to bring you to faith in Him? I pray that you will embrace Christ for the joy of possessing the treasure of surpassing value.

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A DAY OF DESTINY – LUKE 19:41-44 by Jeff Steele

2009-05-18T11:24:00.000-07:00

On this bright spring morning, Jesus reached the top of the Mount of Olives as He prepared to ride down into Jerusalem for His triumphal entry. But He stopped to take in the sight of the glorious temple and began to weep. While people cheered all around Him, Jesus knew that their adoration was shallow and fleeting. By Friday they would scream, “Crucify Him!”

Israel’s Day of Destiny

But notice why Jesus wept. He wept because this was Israel’s day of destiny, the day of their visitation when God Himself, in the person of Jesus Christ, entered His city and His temple. It should have been the greatest day in Israel’s history. But Israel was blind to their day and in the end the words of Jesus were fulfilled completely. Less than 40 years later, Jerusalem was surrounded by armies, laid siege to and destroyed. Judgment would come upon Israel for its failure to recognize its day of destiny.

Our Day of Destiny

All of us have a day of destiny as well, a day when God reveals Himself to us and calls us to turn from our self-centered lifestyle and follow Him. It may come in the midst of crisis; it may come at a time of great success. But that day of destiny will come. Don’t think, as Israel seemed to believe, that there will always be another day to answer God’s call. Paul warns us in 2 Corinthians 6:2, “…for He says, ‘at the acceptable time I listened to you, and on the day of salvation I helped you.’ Behold, now is ‘the acceptable time,’ behold, now is ‘The day of salvation.’”

Decide to Follow Christ — Today

Don’t put off making a decision to follow Christ. Do it today, while it is still today. For one day, as Israel found out to its own destruction, it will be too late to follow Him and judgment will surely follow. Make today your day of destiny.

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2009-05-11T15:12:00.000-07:00

The Parable of the Widow and the Unrighteous Judge

Jesus told parables for a number of different reasons: to reveal truth, to hide truth and to illustrate a point. Sometimes we are informed exactly why Jesus told a particular parable. That is the case with the parable of the widow and the unrighteous judge. Luke writes that Jesus told this parable to show that we should keep praying at all times and not give up. Apparently Jesus was concerned about our willingness to persevere in prayer and not give up when answers don’t come immediately.

The point of the parable is rather straight forward: if an unrighteous judge who doesn’t fear God or respect men eventually gives in to a widow with no clout or resources — just so she will quit coming to him day after day, how much more will a loving Father answer the prayers of His children and bring justice for them swiftly. That doesn’t mean that God will necessarily answer quickly in every situation, but once He chooses to act, He will act swiftly.

Be Faithful to Keep Praying

From our perspective, we worry God won’t answer our prayers. But from Jesus perspective, He has an even bigger concern. Luke 18:8 says, “I tell you that He will bring about justice for them quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?”

The real question that worried Jesus wasn’t God’s willingness to answer prayer, but His people’s willingness to keep praying. He worries that by the time He returns will there be anyone here who still has the faith to pray? Do you? How’s your faith? How’s your prayer life? Jesus not only commands us to pray, but also to keep praying, even when God seems slow to answer. Hang in there. Don’t give up. God is moving to answer even now. Do you have the faith to keep praying?

Read more blogs at http://www.HeartoftheCanyons.com

Prayer is Preparation by PastorJeff Steele

2009-05-04T11:14:00.000-07:00

Power from Prayer

After Jesus came down from the Mount of Transfiguration with Peter, James and John, He came upon a scene where his disciples we’re trying to cast a demon out of a man’s son, and were unable to do it. When Jesus saw what was happening, He called for the boy to brought to Him and promptly cast out the demon. Later, when Jesus was inside a house alone with the disciples, they wanted to know why He could cast out the demon and they couldn’t. So Jesus gave the answer that this kind only can be driven out with prayer.

“When He came into the house, His disciples began to question Him privately, ‘Why couldn’t we drive it out?’ And He said to them, ‘This kind cannot come out by anything but prayer.’” Mark 9:28-29

Prepare For Each Day with Prayer

What struck me as I read this is that Jesus didn’t know what He would encounter when He came down the mountain. He expected to meet the rest of His disciples and continue his itinerant ministry. Instead, He encountered the helpless disciples. This story tells me is that Jesus made it a point everyday to pray, to spend time with His father to make sure He was prepared for whatever He might encounter. He didn’t wait until He confronted a problem, but instead knew He would need His Father’s strength for any problems He encountered. So when He met the young man with the demon, He was ready and drove it out.

We need to pray every day, recognizing that prayer is preparation. Don’t wait to hit a problem before you pray. Pray daily, asking God to give you grace for the challenges you will face. Prayer is preparation, so make it a first priority, not a last resort.

Read more blogs at http://www.HeartoftheCanyons.com

Running to Church

2009-04-29T16:54:00.000-07:00

“The Life and Time of Jesus the Messiah”

This year I have been reading a Christian classic in my devotions, “The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah” by Alfred Edersheim. The book goes into great depth about the background of the New Testament gospels and the religious, cultural and social life of the day. As a Jewish Christian, Edersheim was also deeply familiar with the writings of the Jewish Rabbis around the time of Jesus. His knowledge and insight are amazing, especially when you realize that he did his writing in the late 1800’s, without any help from computers. In describing the synagogue service at the time of Jesus, Edersheim writes,

"The weekly Sabbath, the pledge between God and Israel had once more come. To meet it as a bride or queen, each house was adorned on Friday evening. The Sabbath lamp was lighted; the festive garments put on; the table provided with the best the family could afford; and the Qiddush, or benediction, was spoken over the cup of wine, which, as always was mixed with water. And as Sabbath morning broke, they hastened with quick steps to the Synagogue; for such was the Rabbinic rule for going, while it was prescribed to return with slow lingering steps."

How Is Your Attitude?

I read this, I was struck with just how different our attitude about gathering to worship God is. Rather than anticipate Sunday as a great day when the church, the bride of Christ, gathers to worship its savior and Lord, we come more out of duty or guilt. Instead of expecting to meet God, we look at our watches and mark time until the service is over. And instead of hurrying to church with excitement to be able to worship the God of heaven and a reluctance to leave the gathering of God’s people, we drag our feet, come in late and rush home as soon as church is over so we can watch the big game. How different their attitude about gathering for worship was than ours is!

Time for a Change of Heart

We need to remember the exhortation to us by the author of Hebrews, to not forsake our own assembling together, as some people were in the habit of doing, but to gather all the more as we see the day of Christ’s return drawing nearer (Hebrews 10:25). We need the help and encouragement of others now more than ever! So let’s change our hearts and begin to approach Sundays with an attitude of eagerness and anticipation, excited about gathering with God’s people and expecting God to meet us. Let’s be willing to linger with God’s people and see what God might do if we make ourselves available. Who knows? God might just show up in some surprising ways when we actually come expecting to meet Him here with His people. Think about it…

Read more of Jeff and Jim's blogs at http://HeartoftheCanyons.com

THE BEST OF TIMES AND WORST OF TIMES

2009-04-06T12:12:00.000-07:00

It was without question the best of times and the worst of times for the followers of Jesus. For three years they listened as Jesus taught truth and refuted error. They watched as he performed miracles, and they observed his ability to love the discarded people of their culture. They were on top of the world! Although they were warned, they could not imagine what was going to happen in the hours ahead. Jesus would be betrayed by one off his “followers” and arrested and falsely accused by the religious “leaders” of the faith He established. He was then going to be tried, found guilty and put to death by a political system His followers hated. All of this would shatter false hopes, but it also would result in the resurrection of new and true hopes.

JESUS PAVED THE WAY FOR REAL HOPE

Jesus’ disciples didn’t know it at the moment, but what they thought was the worst time in their lives paved the way for the best of times. Because of the events of this day, God provided them a lifetime of continued fellowship and intimacy with Him. He connected them with a people to love and a purpose to fulfill. On top of that, He gave them a hope for living beyond the grave. Out of the hopelessness of these terrible three days, Jesus conquered death and the grave to give us a true and living hope!

HOW HAVE YOUR LIFE CIRCUMSTANCES AFFECTED YOUR HOPE?

We are living in some interesting times. For many of us, the things in which we hope and trust are being threatened. The economy has made our futures uncertain. The political and social climate is confusing, and much of what we believe in is being tested. These circumstances should make us ask the question, “Do the things we believe in offer us a true and living hope?”

DOES THE RESURRECTION REALLY OFFER HOPE?

Easter is God working in the hopelessness of our lives and circumstances to resurrect hope. In Thessalonians, the Apostle Paul reminded the Christians who were suffering for their faith of this certain future when he wrote, “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.” If Jesus just died, we have no hope. But if He not only died, but rose again, we can have hope!

IT’S FRIDAY BUT SUNDAY’S COMING

For many, the times in which we are now living seem to be the darkest of our lives. Hang on to hope by remembering that our greatest enemy, death, has been conquered so God can bring hope to our hopeless lives. See you this weekend as we remember Christ’s death on Friday evening and then celebrate His resurrection on Sunday. Remember, “It may be Friday, but Sunday is coming!”

Read more of Jim's blogs at http://www.HeartoftheCanyons.com

THE EVENT THAT SHOUTS HOPE!

2009-03-30T15:57:00.000-07:00

In just a few short days we will celebrate another Easter! Without a doubt, this is the most important day of our year. On this day we celebrate the event that shouts HOPE to the world, the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Because of the resurrection, regardless of your life circumstances, nothing is so dead that God cannot bring it back to life.

As you prepare for Easter this year, many of you are facing some extremely challenging circumstances in your life. Losing hope is really easy these days. Let me challenge you to think about the things in which you hope. Maybe God is challenging those things so that we will again remember that all true hope begins with the promises of God. While we may enjoy many of the people and things the world offers us, we will never get real and lasting hope through them.

This kind of hope is only found in the life, death, burial, resurrection and promised return of Christ. True hope is in a person and that person is Jesus and Jesus alone. So grab hold of these truths and have real hope for the days ahead. And remember, if the resurrection is true, nothing that matters to God is so dead that God cannot resurrect it to life.

Read Jim's blogs at http://www.heartofthecanyons.com

ABIDING IN CHRIST

2009-03-26T13:43:00.000-07:00

Jesus makes it very clear that when we attach to the true vine (Jesus), He produces in us fruits that enrich our lives and change our world. We cannot, apart from Christ, find meaning and fulfillment in life.

It is great being in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” As you live in Christ, what is valuable will begin to surface as the old passes away and the new comes.

I know we confronted some hard issues in the past several weeks, and I hope each of us has asked some honest questions about our spiritual life and health. But this week I want you to take some time to just enjoy abiding in Christ. As you do, you will begin to find deep pleasure in times of worship. You will look forward to connecting with God’s people in fellowship. The Bible will be more than a book to read, it will be a tool that God uses to disciple your heart. You will want to participate in the ministry of the church, and you will see your world differently.

Learn to enjoy the life of Christ in you. You are amazing people. I thank God for the privilege of growing in my faith as you grow in yours and as we grow together. Don’t forget to pray about God’s will for the land.

Discovering the Secret of Spiritual Living

2009-03-11T12:53:00.000-07:00

Deitrich Bonhoffer once said, “The call of Christ is first a call to die.” The reason we sometimes struggle to live the Christian life is because we have not learned how to die to our spiritual self-sufficiency and our self-centeredness. This last Sunday we considered the call of Christ to “deny yourself, take up your cross daily and follow me.”

This week, I hope you will take time to ask God to show you areas of your life where you are living independently of Him. Where are you allowing self-centeredness to affect your walk with Christ? According to Jesus’ words, this must be done daily.

Begin each day this week surrendering your will to God. Ask Him to help you die to yourself so you can effectively live for Him. It may be the toughest week you ever had, but you will experience God like never before.

Join me this week. Let’s learn together how we can die to self so we can live unto God!

Read Jim's blogs at http://www.heartofthecanyons.com

CHEAP’S NOT ALWAYS CHEAP

2009-02-27T17:34:00.000-08:00

The words of Jesus are very difficult but necessary for understanding the purpose for which Jesus came. They are essential for us to embrace if we are going to successfully fulfill the commitments that are being asked. They were essential because they…

· Challenge the misconceptions previously believed.
· Clarify the cost that has to be paid.

The words are, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Just as when Jesus originally said them, these words challenge the misconceptions of modern western Christianity. Unfortunately we too have begun to view our faith from a benefactor perspective. We tend to come to God for what we hope He can do for us, not realizing that what He can do for us begins with a commitment to follow, not take.

No doubt the eternal benefits of knowing Christ are unspeakable. But the costs of knowing Him for who He really is are more than most in our culture is willing to pay. My dad use to say, “Cheap’s not always cheap!” What has your faith cost you? If the cost is little, you will probably find that in the tough times, the benefit seems minimal.

This week, we will look at this amazing call of Jesus to “would be” followers. Take some time to read and think about Luke 9:21-27. Prepare your heart to be challenged. It might be difficult, but remember, “Cheap’s not always Cheap!”

Read more at http://www.heartofthecanonys.com

DID JESUS ASK TOO MUCH?

2009-02-27T17:32:00.000-08:00

With all Jesus said about love and honor did He contradict himself when He told His disciples that they must “hate” their fathers, mothers, husbands, wives, children, brothers and sisters, yes even their own lives if they wanted to be His disciples? Maybe our understanding of love and hate are different. Whichever the case, He must have offended many with the “high cost,” because the crowd disappeared.

LIFE’S HIGHEST CALLING AND VIRTUE

Without a doubt, Jesus made it clear that if you were going to follow Him, loving God had to be your highest calling and most important virtue in life. This week we will examine what Jesus said and why it was that so many chose to turn back. We will also consider why He used such extreme language, and what cost and benefits are a part of the lives of those who embrace this difficult task.

MAYBE EXTREME COMMITMENT EXPLAINS AMAZING ACCOMPLISHMENT

I, for one, think understanding this extreme commitment is critical for understanding the amazing progress that took place through a small band of believers in the early years of the church. Ironically, their lives were characterized by acts of kindness and love like no people in history. Maybe it is true that loving God most produces in us the ability to love people appropriately and unconditionally.

LET’S GET READY FOR SUNDAY

Join us this weekend as we consider this amazing text found in Luke 14. Take time to read it before you come and ask God to use it to help you evaluate the depth of your discipleship. See you Sunday as we gather as a family to celebrate God’s amazing gift to us in Christ!

Read more of Jim's Blogs at www.HeartoftheCanyons.com

IS THE CHURCH ACCOMPLISHING ITS PURPOSE?

2009-02-13T10:14:00.001-08:00

A major fallacy is being taught in today’s church! Somewhere we forgot the great commission was not to go and make converts to Christianity but to make Disciples of Christ. By definition, a disciple is the follower of a particular teacher, leader or philosophy. In most cases all three of these are true because most people we allow to teach us, lead us to understand and believe their philosophy of life.

JESUS DEMANDED MORE THAN PHILISOPHICAL AGREEMENT

Jesus, no doubt was a teacher who taught, and a leader who lead, and He clearly communicated a unique philosophy. But unlike many, Jesus placed clear and difficult demands on those who chose to follow Him. John 6 clearly identifies the extreme commitments that Jesus demanded of His followers. Jesus required more than philosophical agreement. In fact, Jesus demanded His followers that they not just follow His teachings but that they follow Him. Following Christ is not just an invitation to an intellectual pursuit; it is a commitment to a deep relationship -- a relationship in which His followers are willing to know Him above all else, love Him above all else and be willing to forsake everything this world has to offer in order to follow Him. Does this describe your commitment to Jesus?

ESCAPING THE FRUSTRATION OF EASY “BELIEVE-ISM”

This is a far cry from the easy “believe-ism” of modern Christians who want the benefits of Christ’s sacrifice, but refuse to bring every aspect of their lives into alignment with His life and teaching. The ultimate goal of every church is to go and make disciples. Every individual who embraced that call has to spend the rest of his or her living days being transformed into the likeness of Christ.

EXTREME COMMITMENTS PRODUCE DEEP FULFILLMENT

I genuinely believe that many of today’s Christian’s feel incomplete in their faith. Because of this, they dismiss their faith and walk away in frustration. Maybe the answer is to understand and embrace the amazing demands that Jesus made and begin to genuinely follow Christ. Join us for the next several weeks as we consider the EXTREME IMAGES that Jesus used to describe true discipleship. This week take time to read John 6 in preparation for our time of teaching.

To Read more of Jim's Blog's, visit http://www.heartofthecanyons.com

THIS IS A TIME OF CHANGE

2009-02-02T18:34:00.000-08:00

We made a lot of changes in the past few weeks that we hope will re-engage enthusiasm in our hearts. Moving the worship band, changing the Sunday morning schedule and having a time of prayer and commitment during the services seems to have stirred our hearts a little. This weekend, I will introduce another change that I think will encourage you in your walk with God. I won’t tell you what it is, but when you attend this Sunday, anticipate a day of celebration, inspiration, preparation and hopefully transformation.

THE GOAL OF OUR SERVICES
Did you know that the last words in the previous paragraph describe my goal for you each week? Because life can beat us up, these four ingredients are essential in each of our lives. CELEBRATION reminds us of the great hope we have as believers in Jesus Christ. INSPIRATION gives us energy to face life’s challenges. PREPARATION allows us to know in our minds how to live a life of truth in a world of lies. Through CELEBRATION, we applaud God’s victory. Through INSPIRATION, we surrender to God and embrace one another. We are then energized to live out our faith through the week. And through PREPARATION, our minds are equipped with truths for living.

THE ULTIMATE GOAL
The ultimate goal of our gathering together is TRANSFORMATION. My prayer is that what we do each week results in transformed lives. Because if we are transformed, we are a part of all God is doing to transform the world around us. One of my greatest fears is that we could somehow gather each week, enjoy the music and the message, but never really change on the inside. That is why I use the word TRANSFORM not change, because TRANSFORMATION is a change of heart that results in a change of behavior.

CHANGES THAT REACH THE HEART
I am excited about the external changes we made since the first of the year. I am also excited about some of changes that are coming in the future. But as I shared two weeks ago, these changes produce little if any benefit, if they do not move beyond the garments and reach the heart. Joel challenged the Israelites to “rend their hearts and not their garments.” Together, let’s allow God to change us from the inside out.

So, show up early this week. Join us in a celebration that inspires our hearts, informs our minds and transforms our lives.

To Read more of Jim's Blog's, visit http://www.heartofthecanyons.com/

INTERRUPTED IN WAL-MART

2008-12-11T19:36:00.000-08:00

I wanted to write this blog outside the isolated environment of my office, so I could respond to the activities of people. I am at MacDonald’s in Wal-Mart. Watching people enter and exit makes me wonder what people are looking for on the way in, and whether or not they found what they think they need on their way out. If they found it, how long will the feeling of satisfaction really last.

As I write, an elderly lady interrupted me and asked me if I knew anyone who could help her learn how to use the Internet. I suppose she saw me working on my laptop and assumed I knew something about computers.

After a brief conversation, she willingly opened her heart. She shared with me about her husband passing away and about her Jewish upbringing. In the conversation I told her I was a pastor. After talking for a few more minutes, she asked me if she could come to “my church” some time. I assured her she would be welcomed.

When she walked away, my mind immediately rewound to the words I read Sunday morning. “For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” (Matthew 2:22 NIV) With that thought, a question came to my mind: “What is it in my life that might possibly draw people to Christ? Knowing myself well, my immediate response was “probably nothing.” As this dear lady walked away, she turned and said, “I appreciate your warm smile, and I would want to go to a church where the pastor smiles.” Then she walked away.

I am so grateful that God let me write this blog in Wal-Mart, because He graciously allowed me encourage a person He created and deeply loves. Even in my imperfection, God used me.

BE A RISING STAR

I hope this year we can be, “a rising star.” When people approach us, we can effectively show them the love of Christ so they too can come and adore Him. In the back of my mind I remember the songs we sang in our worship Sunday, especially the Christmas carol. The chorus is probably one of the best-known lyrics in our culture:

“Oh come let us adore HIM,Oh come let us adore HIM,Oh come let us adore HIM,Christ, the Lord.”

Let me encourage you to adore HIM this week and if you do, you can be a star that rises to reflect what people need most, Christ, the Lord.

To Read more of Jim's Blog's, visit http://www.heartofthecanyons.com/

Our World Needs a Break

2008-11-17T19:33:00.000-08:00

My Favorite “HOLIDAY”

In just a few short days, America celebrates my favorite holiday. It’s my faviorite because it is still a “HOLI - DAY.” With the need to make a buck, it seems as though every other holiday has become a holi-season. Before the day arrives we stressed ourselves to the point that we are physically and financially exhausted. So I look forward to Thanksgiving Day.

The Challenge of Being Thankful This year being thankful on that day will challenge many of us, because our lives changed so much in the past few months. Many people feel their jobs are at risk, their investments are dying and the world seems to be changing so rapidly. It has created a lot of uncertainty and a lot of insecurity. But maybe this year on Thanksgiving DAY, we can take a reprieve and focus on the things in life that really are true.

A few days before our election someone sent me this test. Taking it helped me keep things in perspective. So take the test, be honest and get ready for a great Thanksgiving DAY.

Take the Test
1. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, Jesus will still be The King.
2. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, our responsibilities as Christians will not have changed one iota.
3. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the greatest agent for social change in America will still be winning the hearts and minds of men and women through the gospel, not legislation.
4. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my primary citizenship will still be in this order - (1) the Kingdom of God, (2) America, not vice-versa.
5. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the tomb will still be empty.
6. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the cross, not the government, will still be our salvation.
7. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, our children will still be more concerned with whether or not we spend time with them than with who is President.
8. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my neighbor will still be my neighbor, and loving him/her will still be the second greatest commandment. (Do you know the first?)
9. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the only way to see abortion ultimately overturned will still be winning men and women to a high view of life through the gospel of Christ.
10. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the only way to see gay marriage ultimately defeated will still be winning men and women to a biblical view of marriage through the gospel of Jesus Christ.
11. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my retirement will still not match my treasure in Heaven.
12. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, “Jesus Is Lord” will still be the greatest truth in the Universe.
13. True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, we will still know that God is in control.

So how’d you do? We have a lot to be thankful every day for in Jesus alone!

To Read more of Jim's Blog's, visit http://www.heartofthecanyons.com/

Share Life - What I Have, I Give Unto You

2008-10-25T19:28:00.000-07:00

I love these words because they describe God’s heart with regards to my personal giving. Peter spoke these words when he traveled to the temple mount to pray. Before entering, he encountered a lame man doing what he had to do to survive - begging for money. The rest of Peter’s words are great: “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I have, I give to you. In the name of Jesus of Nazareth, rise up and walk!”

When we run out of money, we tend to think, “I don’t have anything to give.” But upon examination, we discover that people don’t always need money. People need love and encouragement. People need acceptance and authentic concern. That is the great thing about “SHARE LIFE” because on this day we give something we have to meet a need that cannot be bought or manufactured by men. October 26th, we invite you to give a pint of blood to help those fighting illness at Children’s Hospital and/or canned good/s to help the needy. If everyone who can give does give, we will help maximize the blood supply as we did at our first Share Life. Collectively, we will again make a difference in the lives of those struggling to make ends meet.

Let’s gather to “SHARE LIFE”. Join me on Sunday, October 26th at LaMesa Jr. High between 8:00 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. Call 661-255-7246 or e-mail office@heartofthecanyons.com. We will schedule your time to give blood before you arrive. Refreshments and games for the kids will be available.

We may not have money to give right now, but what we do have, we can give knowing that God supplies all our needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus.

To Read more of Jim's Blog's, visit http://www.heartofthecanyons.com/

Share Life - An Opportunity…

2008-10-20T19:25:00.000-07:00

An Opportunity to Change Peoples Opinion of the Church

According to George Barna research, public opinion of the church is at an all-time low in America. The church can do two things in response to this reality. We can validate those opinions by shutting down, or we can confront them by challenging the misconceptions. One of the ways we challenge misconceptions is by showing the love of Christ by caring for those he cared for. Two examples were the sick and the poor.

“SHARE LIFE” is an opportunity to do just that. On Sunday, October 26th, we have an opportunity to give blood for the sick and gather food for the working poor. I encourage you to invite a friend or neighbor to join you on October 26th for a day of worship, fellowship and giving.

Everybody knows someone who is affected by cancer or another serious illness. Everywhere hard working people need help feeding their families. We can “SHARE LIFE” on October 26th. Bring a friend, bring a can of food, bring a dish to share at the potluck, and roll up your sleeves to give blood. All the food items are donated to the Hunger Defense Fund. The Blood Drive is co-sponsored by Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.

Let’s join together to challenge the world’s opinion of the church so they see Jesus differently.

To Read more of Jim's Blog's, visit http://www.heartofthecanyons.com/

COME TO “SHARE LIFE” SUNDAY

2008-10-15T19:24:00.000-07:00

As a pastor, I have had the difficult task of coming along side people and families as they walk through cancer. In that time I learned the smallest things we do make the biggest difference. Nothing can eliminate the battles they face, but providing a meal or giving a ride or volunteering to baby-sit, or helping in the least way is being an instrument of God in relieving some of the stress they feel as they go through this experience.

One of the things most of us can do that is desperately needed is “GIVING BLOOD”. I invite you to join me on Sunday, August 26th, from 8 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. to “SHARE LIFE” by giving blood. E-mail us with times you are available or sign up at the CommUnity Center. This event is an opportunity to show the love of Christ by meeting a desperate need. Invite friends and neighbors to schedule a time to give also.

Let’s reach out to our community on August 26th. As a church family we will have our regular services at 8:45 and 11:00 a.m. and we will enjoy a pot luck and a time of fellowship between the services.

We also ask you to bring non-perishable items for the “Hunger Defense Fund” on that day. With the economy the way it is, the Hunger Defense Fund really depends upon our simple support so they can continue to help those in need.

Let’s join together on the 26th to be the Church, not just attend!

To Read more of Jim's Blog's, visit http://www.heartofthecanyons.com/

WHAT A WEEK!

2008-09-16T19:12:00.000-07:00

Uncertainty is everywhere as people wait to see what in the world the government is going to do to “save the day”. This week has reminded me of a few things that I want to share with you, so here they are:

1. We live in a changing world. The problem for most of us is that we have been lulled to sleep by our false securities and the alarm is now sounding. The buzz is, “life as we have known it is definitely at risk.”

2. We have an unchanging God. The scripture says that God is the same yesterday, today and forever.

3. Sometimes we need a wake-up call. I don’t believe that 9/11 or events like it was God, but I do believe that God used 9/11 to shake the conscience of the nation and make us at least think about God.

4. God uses world events as opportunities for personal change. When adversity comes it changes authentic believers for good. Unfortunately, it changes many for the worse.

5. Christians must seize opportunities for positive change or else we will give way to those who can destroy the foundations upon which we were established and when the foundations are destroyed, the house will fall.

6. I can’t do everything, but I can do something, and what I can do, I should do.

Therefore…

o I will speak the truth in love to those who disagree.
o I will vote for the things and people that affirm the truth of my faith.
o I will find ways in the confusion to offer the hope of Christ to a world that is starving for hope.

As usual, God’s Word says it best.

Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, "Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

Ephesians 3: 13-17 (CEV)

ENOUGH SAID!!!

To Read more of Jim's Blog's, visit http://www.heartofthecanyons.com/

AN ISSUE WORTH CONTENDING FOR

2008-09-03T19:09:00.000-07:00

The Bible is filled with historical messages that challenge and warn cultures of the results of ignoring the universal laws that govern God’s world. The recent decision by the California Supreme Court (Link to Supreme Court ruling.) to legalize same-sex marriages shakes my world. I am not one to get overly involved in politically hot debates; however, some things are worth contending for and I believe this is one. Why? Because my belief in the biblical model of marriage is not just a preference, it is a conviction.

Preference or Conviction?
According to David C. Gibbs, Jr., of the Christian Law Association, the U.S. Supreme Court defines preference and conviction in the following ways: A preference is a very strong belief, held with great strength. You can devote your entire life to the service of the preference. You can also give your entire material wealth in the name of the belief. You can energetically proselytize others to your preference. You can also want to teach this belief to your children, and the Supreme Court may still rule that it is a preference.
A preference is a strong belief, but a belief that you will change under the right circumstances. Circumstances such as: 1. peer pressure (If your beliefs are such that other people stand with you before you will stand, your beliefs are preferences, not convictions.) 2. family pressure 3. lawsuits 4. jail 5. threat of death (Would you die for your beliefs?)
A conviction is a belief that you will not change. Why? A man believes that his God requires it of him. Preferences aren’t protected by the constitution. Convictions are (or were). A conviction is not something you discover; it is something you purpose in your heart (cf. Daniel 1, 2-3). Convictions on the inside will always show up on the outside – in a person’s lifestyle. Violating a conviction is a sin.

Drawing a Line in the Sand
As a pastor, I draw a line in the sand because the definition of marriage, as given by God, is not a preference for me, but a conviction. Therefore, to not stand in favor of Proposition 8 is sin. This is a conviction in my life, because the Bible warns of the consequences of failing to honor this God established and ordained institution. History validates those warnings.

I realize any time you stand firmly against or for something, you run the risk of alienating some whom you deeply love and care for. You may even be accused of hatred. I am not a hate person; by God’s grace, I deeply love and care for people (even those whose views are different). But just as I, as a good father, prohibit harmful behavior in my children’s lives, God warns us of the consequences of violating His laws. Always remember God hates the sin, but loves the sinner. His laws were not put in place to keep us from enjoying what is right and good, but to warn us against something destructive. I will fight on for the truths I believe are essential to my faith and to the well-being of the world in which I live. Look at the following words from Jude: 3-4:

Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints. For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.

My Challenge to You
Let me close by challenging you to attend the program at Grace Baptist Church on September 7th from 5-8 p.m. (Link to “Protect Marriage Conference.”) If you are confused about the issue, you will clearly understand what the Bible says, how we should react, and the possible consequences if this amendment fails. If you already know how you feel, it is critical you come so that collectively, the church in our community can stand together. If there was ever a time for the church to show solidarity, this is it! See you there.

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