Weekly Message
Tuesday, April 23, 2024
HIS YOKE
Just before dawn Paul urged them all to eat.
”For the last fourteen days you have been in constant suspense and have gone without food—you haven’t eaten anything.
Now I urge you to take some food. You need it to survive.
Not one of you will lose a single hair from his head.”
After he said this, he took some bread and gave thanks to God in front of them all.
Then he broke it and began to eat. They were all encouraged and ate some food themselves.
Acts 27:33-36
In the final chapters of Acts, Paul shows himself able to witness to his faith even among those who had no interest in hearing the Gospel. In the letter he wrote to the Colossians he says: Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Paul lived out this directive even when he was on his way to prison! On board the ship taking him to Rome the environment would have been hostile to his Gospel message; yet, even there, he found ways to witness to God’s goodness at work.
It can be hard to find ways to point to our hope in the Lord to a non-Christian. When we consider the example of Paul, I believe he found it easier than many of us because he was constantly in prayer. We have access to the same Holy Spirit of the Living God through prayer. As we bend the knee, humbling ourselves before God, our communion with Jesus deepens. This deeper relationship makes us more sensitive to God’s voice when He calls.
Let us make a priority of coming before God in prayer; opening up the line of communication so that we might hear and respond to the Lord’s guidance given through the Holy Spirit. May we respond to His prompting by speaking a word, or offering support, to someone in need today.
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, April 16, 2024
HIS YOKE
Paul said, “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance.
He told people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.”
On hearing this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus.
Acts 19:4-5
Twenty-five years ago Steven Curtis Chapman released a song which became widely popular in Christian circles. The song, Dive, was powerful; capturing the exciting, yet dangerous, aspect of diving into unknown waters and going deep. It was, of course, a metaphor calling the skeptic to take a leap of faith and trust in God; to believe that there is a richer reality to know by ‘letting go and letting God’.
When Paul came to the great city of Ephesus (in present day Turkey) he realized that the Christians did not have a full understanding of Jesus as Saviour. He called them to go deeper; to dive, as it were, into the waters of baptism in the name of Jesus. They had been missing out on the full presence of God available to them by grace.
As they let go of control over their lives through baptism, the Holy Spirit transformed them. They were set free to experience the power and love of God like never before, and they were inspired to become Christ’s witnesses in the world.
May we dive into the grace of God once again. May revival come. Why not here?, why not through you?, why not now?
To God be the glory!
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, April 9, 2024
HIS YOKE
Therefore let all Israel be assured of this:
God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah…
[Therefore] Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.
And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Acts 2:36,38
The words above are taken from the Apostle Peter’s sermon, preached on that first Pentecost Sunday. In our ‘Faith Sharing’ group, and in worship on Sunday, we will consider the foundation stones set in place for the Church. The Apostle Peter, though remembered for his denial of Jesus’ just before his crucifixion, did turn and become the chief leader of the new Christian movement.
Peter speaks about what it means for Jesus to be both Lord and Messiah in our lives. The title Lord speaks of authority. If we call Jesus our Lord, it means we are willing to submit to His rule over our lives and decisions. The title Messiah speaks of the Promised One who would bring salvation to God’s people. Do we believe that our eternal salvation is received through faith in Jesus Christ?
Friends, the firm foundation is faith in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. In this Season of the Resurrection, may we find new life in Jesus and share that good news with the world!
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
HIS YOKE
Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb.
They said nothing to anyone because they were afraid.
Mark 16:8
The season of Easter has begun. Christ has risen!! He has risen indeed! We are surprised by the initial response of the women visiting Jesus tomb and finding it empty (see above). Though the man (angel) told them the beautiful truth: “He has risen!”, the power of those words did not penetrate the shock: things are not as they should be!
It is true that things are not as they should be. I’m not grumbling about all the horrible things that go on in the world, rather, I’m speaking about the signs of hope and joy which surprise us. Out of death, poverty, and sadness, hope springs forth! We know, through our connection and support of the Yonge Street Mission, that there is much poverty in our own city; even for young children and youth.
Yet we read stories of God’s love and kindness poured out on them through generous people like yourselves and that, despite the difficulties, some youth have found ways to thrive and be a blessing to others. This joy is not as it should be; that is, it is not natural but an act of God! We rejoice as we take note of the triumph of the risen Christ at work today, if we have eyes to see. Thanks be to God.
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
HIS YOKE
At noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon.
[Then] Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”).
Mark 15:33-34
On Maundy Thursday and Good Friday this week, we will remember the sufferings of Christ and the motivation: His love for all of humanity. The only saying from the cross recorded by Mark (the Gospel of focus) is written above. From my perspective, it is the hardest of the seven sayings to understand. If Jesus is God, how can God call out such a question to God?!
Jesus cries out the question that many people have cried out throughout history – perhaps a cry you have once uttered. Jesus became – fully, completely, forsakenly – sinful. God’s wrath was poured out on God’s Son. No covering it up. Jesus felt forsaken. As prophesied many centuries earlier …he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors. [Isaiah 53:12b] Oh what sacrifice, to be forsaken, that we might be redeemed! Thanks be to God.
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
HIS YOKE
PRAYER FOR THE CITY (Devotion from Yonge Street Mission)
You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.
Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die.
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:6-8
With Holy Week just days away, I share a poem to help us reflect on Jesus' sacrifice for us. It was written by Rev. Jan Rothenburger, YSM's Church at the Mission Pastor Emeritus of Church, who has journeyed alongside hundreds of street-involved youth and women for more than thirty years now.
The Sacrifice
At the foot of the cross
Are the humbled and lost
Forgiveness they are craving
And nailed and embossed
Crucifixion paid the cost
For sinners He was saving
Amidst His own despair
Out of pure love and care
Regardless of felt despise
He whispered a prayer
Which sung through the air
That puzzled even the wise
“Father forgive them so
For they do not know"
Spoken with His last breath
“Let Your love show
And allow them to go
Where I shall be after death"
So for the sake of all
Because of the fall
Jesus a sacrifice became
So on God we may call
'Cause now torn is the wall
That erased sin and shame
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
HIS YOKE
So he got up and went to his father.
But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him;
he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.
Luke 15:20
The parable of the Lost Son (Prodigal Son) is such a vibrant image of our Heavenly Father’s love for us. When I watch one of my very favourite movies Les Miserables [based on Victor Hugo’s book], I see Jean Valjean as a lost son. Early in the story, Valjean is brought in shackles to the Bishop, from whom he has stolen valuable silverware. Instead of sentencing him to prison, the ‘father-like’ Bishop says:
Jean Valjean, my brother: you belong no longer to evil, but to good. It is your soul that I am buying for you.
I withdraw it from dark thoughts and from the spirit of perdition, and I give it to God!
Jean Valjean was so confronted by Love that he was eternally transformed; he was a new creation, the old was gone the new had come. He began to live his life as a changed man…one who offered grace and kindness to the weak; in fact he was even willing to sacrifice his own life for the benefit of another.
Friends, may we know and receive God’s love today and may it so change us that we cannot help but offer grace and love to others with great generosity and joy.
How deep the Father’s love for us; how vast beyond all measure. That He would give His only Son, to make a wretch His treasure. (Hymn by Stuart Townend; 1995)
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, March 5, 2024
HIS YOKE
When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”
Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to themselves, “Why does this fellow talk like that?
He’s blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?”
[Jesus said] But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.”
So he said to the man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.”
Mark 2:5-7, 10-11
Jesus refers to himself as the Son of Man in the Gospels more than by any other title. The meaning (according to one commentary) is: ‘one who has the right to act as heavenly judge and ruler, and such a figure has implicitly the power to forgive. The title appears in the Book of Daniel with Messianic hope attached (coming Saviour).
Jesus commands the man to rise, take his mat and go home…and he does! The account goes on to say, ‘they all praised God’, for they had never seen this before!’ They celebrated the healing, but Mark’s point is that Jesus is revealed as the One who could forgive sins. Was the paralytic man a sinner? Yes, but so was everyone else in the home. He needed forgiveness, but so did/do they/we all.
Though there was a miraculous healing, forgiveness is the focal point, for only God can forgive. The good news is that this spiritual healing (forgiveness) is conveyed to us through faith in Jesus. When Jesus saw their faith…
Let us ask for the Holy Spirit of God to help us deepen our faith in Jesus and experience the grace of our Saviour as we walk through this Season of Lent together.
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
HIS YOKE
Kum Ba Yah, My Lord
Kum ba yah, my Lord, Kum ba yah...Oh, Lord, Kum ba yah.
Someone's cryin', Lord, Kum ba yah...Oh, Lord, Kum ba yah.
Someone's singin', Lord, Kum ba yah...Oh, Lord, Kum ba yah.
Someone's prayin', Lord, Kum ba yah...Oh, Lord, Kum ba yah.
Someone needs you, Lord. Kum ba yah...Oh, Lord, Kum ba yah.
-Songs of Zion, 139
Regardless of where one finds themselves on the Lenten journey, this spiritual reveals a yearning heart that resonates with many who find themselves in a wilderness. That heart makes a repetitive plea: "Kum ba yah, my Lord," translated, "Come by here, my Lord." Come by here. It is a prayer for the presence of God wherever one might find oneself. If one is crying or singing or praying, what is obvious is that "someone needs you, Lord." This is true every day of the year. Someone needs God, right now.
You might need God right now, today, regardless of your situation. Things may be fine with you. You could be singing up a storm full of joy, but this doesn't neglect the need to pray, "Kum ba yah, my Lord," nor your need of God in your life. This repeating line challenges us to make these words our words repeatedly. It suggests our vast need for the Presence. Come by here, my Lord. It would be a sad pilgrimage without God. It would be lonely but the spiritual reveals a faith that, in asking, believes that the Lord will come by here, will come by you, today. Underneath these words of prayer is the reminder that when we pray this, God will come because God is a God who is with us - Immanuel (Matthew 1:23). Here. There. And everywhere. With you. Today. Now.
Prayer for the Day.
Kum ba yah, my Lord. Come by here, my Lord, even now.
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
HIS YOKE
When I heard these things, I sat down and wept.
For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.
Then I said:
“Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God,
who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments,
let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer
your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel.
I confess the sins we Israelites,
including myself and my father’s family, have committed against you.
We have acted very wickedly toward you.
We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses.
Nehemiah 1:4-7
Like Queen Esther, Nehemiah had a pretty comfortable position in the palace. He was the chief cupbearer to the king. To have attained this position would mean that he was a very trusted friend of the king. Nehemiah had received news of the distress taking place in his home country as they sought to rebuild Jerusalem. He was broken-hearted and immediately sought God’s presence and favour for His chosen people, the Jews.
Nehemiah was willing to bear the burden of sin alongside his fellow Israelites. It would have been easy for him to judge from afar and say, ‘Wow, they must be very unfaithful to God, that’s why they are suffering so greatly’; instead, he freely confesses his own failing and sin.
In this Season of Lent – of humility and repentance – instead of quickly judging those who are featured in the news as dictators and deviants, may we accept our part in the brokenness of this world. As we humbly confess our personal failings and selfishness may our prayers focus less on judgment and focus more on God’s will to be revealed.
Let us be faithful and prayerful as we follow the example of grace and peace set by our Lord Jesus.
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
HIS YOKE
Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa,
and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day.
I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king,
even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”
Esther 4:15-16
Esther is a book of the Bible that I have never studied closely, yet I find the story captivating. [it takes about 20 minutes to read]. I wonder why this book remained in the ‘canon’ of Holy Scripture (especially through the crucible of the Reformation in the 1500’s)! God is not mentioned in the book yet, there are acts that demonstrate love and faithfulness to God’s people.
Esther was Jewish. She was also beautiful and out-competed all other women of Persia for the newly open position of Queen. Suddenly, hers was a life of ease, comfort, and plenty; but a crisis arose. The Jews were about to be wiped out by a terrible edict made by an evil man, Haman. Esther had a decision to make. Remain silent and ignore the problem (it wouldn’t affect her), or seek to protect her people, reveal her identity, and risk death. In the text above we see that Esther chose to risk her life. She invited her people to fast and pray as she prepared to approach the king.
As we enter the Season of Lent tomorrow we are encouraged to fast and pray. As we experience a small amount of suffering (hunger pangs) we are reminded to pray for those who suffer hunger daily; to pray for those attacked or mistreated because of their ethnicity; to pray for those who are anxious, lonely or afraid.
With courage like Esther, let us seek God’s spiritual strength in order to equip us in showing generosity and love to those so desperately in need.
Peace in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, February 6, 2024
HIS YOKE
Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope:
Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness...
it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:21-23;26
Much joy arises in the hearts of God’s ‘chosen people’ when King Cyrus of Persia conquers the Babylonians. Cyrus encounters the living God (an epiphany) and his heart is moved to send the people of Judah back to their homeland. They are given protection and the materials needed to rebuild the temple. It was a beautiful surprise, yet the Prophets had predicted this before Judah went into exile. God was true to God’s word.
The Prophet Zechariah spoke to the people as they rebuilt the temple and their homes. He charged them to not take this gift for granted but to change their ways. To not live as their ancestors had, in rebellion against the LORD and as a curse among the nations, but to serve God faithfully and be a blessing to the people around them.
Quoted above, the instructions God gave them did not seem too demanding. It is summed up as ‘Love truth and peace’. As Jim shared in his creative ‘Children’s Message’ on Sunday, ‘Coyote & the Statue’, there is much deception in the world. The more we abide with the Lord, the more we are able to discern the difference between truth and lies. As we seek the way of truth, controversy can arise – for many do not want to know the truth; it seems that they enjoy deception. Yet, we know that when Christ is revealed and received, a true and lasting peace enters into human hearts.
Let us pray for God’s truth to be revealed and the peace of Christ to reign.
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, January 31, 2024
HIS YOKE
Dare to be a Daniel, Dare to stand alone.
Dare to have a purpose firm, Dare to make it known.
Hymn – Standing by a purpose true (based on the Biblical book of Daniel)
Daniel is the featured prophet in chapter 18 of The Story. After conquering Judah (Israel), the Babylonians didn’t take all the people into captivity, but only the best; that is, the youthful, attractive and intelligent. They were put into a three year program of intense immersion with Babylonian educators preparing them to serve in the kings court.
Daniel was among those chosen. He would have been treated well and given every benefit including the best food and wine from the kings table. They wanted these men to love Babylon and to assist with a peaceful lordship over Judah. Daniel stayed in the kings court for ~ 70years, outlasting his captivity (released by Cyrus, king of Persia).
It is interesting that it is never recorded that Daniel asks ‘Why am I in exile?’. Rather he asks, ‘God, how can I be faithful in exile?’ As Christians we may justifiably feel we are in a time of exile. In a culture that does not eagerly accommodate followers of Christ. We can complain about it, or we can seek God and ask, ‘How might I be a faithful witness for Christ today’? Friends, like Daniel, let us look for opportunities to bear witness to Jesus with joy and hope, here and now.
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
HIS YOKE
Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope:
Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness...
it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:21-23;26
The prophet Jeremiah is a key prophet in chapter 17 of The Story. He has been nicknamed ‘the weeping prophet’ as he pours out his laments concerning the ‘fall of the kingdom’ of God’s chosen people. There is an Old Testament book written by him given the title matching his writing style: ‘Lamentations’. But in the midst of all the laments there is this beautiful piece of Scripture (quoted above) that we hold on to.
Friends, in the midst of frustration or feelings of loneliness and rejection, we turn our eyes to the Lord. As Jeremiah, and other faithful men and women throughout history have done, we continue to see hope in the midst of pain. Though the kingdom of Israel was collapsing, the faithful of Israel were beginning to realize that their God could not be conquered. They began to perceive the reality that their God could not be contained in the temple, or restrained by the boundaries of Israel. God was, and is, a very big God!
Let us wait patiently, quietly and prayerfully for God’s salvation to be worked out among us and through us.
with hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
HIS YOKE
“Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.”
Then one of the seraphim (angels) flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.”
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?”
And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”
Isaiah 6:5-8
The prophet Isaiah dominates chapter 16 of The Story. His unique calling is received by way of a vision of God’s splendour and holiness. He is suddenly aware of his unworthiness and his people’s unworthiness. In his vision a burning coal carried by an angel touches his lips and he is cleansed, making him worthy to carry the message of God to God’s people.
Elders will be ordained and inducted into their role during our Worship this Sunday. In some way, they are responding to a call from God as expressed through the congregation and elders of our Church. Every elder, I’m sure, has in some way struggled with the question of ‘worthiness’. The good news is that their ‘worthiness’ to serve is not based on their personal holiness but on their willingness to put their trust in Jesus, who makes them worthy. We are cleansed and made whole through our faith in Jesus Christ.
Friends, it is Jesus who equips us and sends us out to serve as leaders in Christ’s Church. May we, as a Church family, pray for God’s blessing on our elders as they step forward in faith and say, with the prophet Isaiah: “Here am I. Send me!”
with hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Saturday, January 13, 2024
Blessings in Christ to our Church family and friends.
Tomorrow is the 2nd Sunday in the Season of Epiphany: Worship @ 10:30am. During this season we focus on how God 'show's up' in amazing ways: 'Epiphanies'. This has happened throughout history and in our own lives. The Bible reading for tomorrow is 1 Kings 19:1-18 (in The Story., chapter 15). We consider a powerful encounter the prophet Elijah has with the LORD and the question God asks: "What are you doing here...?".
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
His Yoke
Elijah said, “Go and tell Ahab, ‘Hitch up your chariot and go down before the rain stops you.’” Meanwhile, the sky grew black with clouds, the wind rose, a heavy rain started falling and Ahab rode off to Jezreel.
The power of the LORD came upon Elijah and, tucking his cloak into his belt, he ran ahead of Ahab all the way to Jezreel.
1 Kings 17:44b - 46
We’ve entered the season of ‘Epiphany’. In chapter 15 of The Story we hear about many epiphanies. To be a prophet of God means a steady reliance on ‘Divine revelation’. A prophet then carries God’s message to the people. Elijah is the most famous prophet in Israel’s history. He was taken up to heaven in chariots of fire! He appeared, alongside Moses, when Jesus was transfigured before his chosen apostles on the mountain.
We read above that the ‘power of the LORD came upon Elijah’ enabling him to run faster than king Ahab’s well-built chariot for several miles! It is hard to relate to the amazing feats of the prophets of God but, I believe there are many Christians who have encountered the living God and experienced power that overwhelmed them.
We can’t force an epiphany to happen; but we can position ourselves in a manner conducive to an encounter with the living God. We do so through humbling ourselves before God and prayer. As we humble ourselves and pray, may God open the storehouses of his power and love to speak to us freshly. May we be inspired to be His messengers of grace and agents of healing in our broken world today. Let us listen for God’s word.
Pastor Tim
Saturday, January 6, 2024
Blessings in Christ to our Church family and friends!
We enter the Season of Epiphany with a return to our book of study for this year - The Story. Our text is two chapters (13 & 14) which cover the rise of Israel under King Solomon (David's son) and then its' collapse. We will focus in particular on Solomon and how God revealed Himself to him throughout his reign found in 1 Kings 3 & 2 Chronicles 7 - "May God be revealed among us". We will consider how to position ourselves to 'see God' in the everyday.
Pastor Tim
Wednesday, January 3, 2024
HIS YOKE
At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon during the night in a dream, and God said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” Solomon answered, “You have shown great kindness to your servant, my father David, because he was faithful to you and righteous and upright in heart. You have continued this great kindness to him and have given him a son to sit on his throne this very day. “Now, Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?”
1 Samuel 3:5-9
We read that the LORD was pleased with Solomon's request for wisdom instead of riches and power. His leadership as king over Israel was off to a great start!
This Sunday is Epiphany Sunday. We continue to celebrate how God comes to us in various ways as God did appear to Solomon. May we continue to meet our Lord Jesus as we seek to follow Him.
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, December 26, 2023
HIS YOKE
Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in. O holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin and enter in; be born in us today.
Several years ago a plant that was located at the corner of the Church parking lot actually burst into bloom in mid-December! It was a forsythia bush – you know, those bright yellow flowers? I recall many of us being a little shocked, thinking: what is going on? Life is arising around us as we begin winter! I kind of wonder if that will happen again with the warm weather this week!
Most of us possess a deep nostalgia – a longing for a white Christmas, just like the ones we used to know. But those ‘white Christmases’ seem to be more and more infrequent. Many of us are quite happy to let go of ‘how it used to be’ and embrace this strange newness of a green and mild Christmas!, and move on to brighter and warmer days (though I’m sure that white winter is coming!!).
It is a wonderful image to ponder as we continue this Christmas celebration. The words quoted above are taken from the carol O little town of Bethlehem. The poet calls us to long for new life – a spiritual re-birth. We are drawn away from simply remembering the birth of Jesus in a manger, to a place of welcoming the mysterious renewal that God is still achieving today. Though signs of Spring arising around us may leave us confused, may the newness of spiritual life that God wishes to impart to us come alive, take root and flourish.
To God be the glory!
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, December 19, 2023
HIS YOKE
Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress…
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called Wonderful Counselor,
Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace...
Isaiah 9 (portions of verses 1-7)
Matthew 2:10-11a
The Prophet Isaiah spoke of what would happen when the long-awaited Saviour arrived. He wrote those words quoted above about 600 before Christ arrived. It sounds as if people were walking about in a daze – without clear vision, direction and knowledge. Jesus came and offered light that we might be able to see more clearly. We continue to need His illumination today.
The purpose of a light (lamp) is not to be stared at - but to aid us in seeing our surroundings. We look to the True Light, Jesus, and worship Him with our whole being while realizing that His Light illuminates our mission. If we are willing, Jesus will clarify who needs our care, grace and love at this time.
May we walk in His light with the message of God’s love made known to all in Jesus.
Joy in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, December 12, 2023
HIS YOKE
When [the Magi] saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.
Matthew 2:10-11a
This coming Sunday’s Worship service includes our Childrens’ Christmas Pageant and our Student Pastor’s reflection on the visit of the ‘Magi’ (or wise men) to see Jesus. The visit of the Magi highlights two different responses they offer according to what, or whom, they encounter.
They were ‘overjoyed’ when they saw the star. The star represented something so amazing to them that wasn’t revealed to the eyes of the average person. They believed that a miracle was being performed and travelled great distances to see what it was all about. When they came so close to what they had been seeking for so long, they experienced deep joy.
Then, as they arrived at the place the star directed them, they ‘worshipped’ Jesus. Their joy was great, but their worship was so much more. I wonder if these Gentiles had expected to ‘worship’ or simply to come and see what the ‘heavens were speaking of’. When they saw Jesus – they could not do anything, but worship Him.
Jesus is the reason for the celebrations. In the midst of our busy-ness and multitude of wonderful events and activities, let us remember to worship Him – Christ the King!
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, November 28, 2023
HIS YOKE
For the director of music. With stringed instruments. A psalm of David.
Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your wrath.
Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am faint; heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony.
My soul is in deep anguish. How long, Lord, how long?
Psalm 6:1-3
You have likely heard of the Irish rock band, U2. Their lead singer, Bono, wrote an introduction to the book of the Psalms. He speaks about his admiration for David; that shepherd king of Israel, the ‘man after God’s own heart.’ Bono loves the ‘humanness’ of David. His poetry, his passion, his confessions, his laments…One of U2’s songs refers to David’s words recorded in Psalm 40 (echoing Psalm 6 above): How long, Lord, how long?
The season of Advent begins this Sunday. In the Church tradition, the primary ‘movement’ of Advent is ‘waiting’. Not waiting for Christmas, but waiting for our Lord to come again. Throughout history, and in many places of the world today, people are crying out with David: My soul is in deep anguish. How long, Lord, how long? We know that the world is not operating as it ought to be and in the midst of the pain we remain a people of hope.
We believe that Christ will come again and every tear will be wiped away – that perfect justice will reign. We believe that this same Saviour whom David glimpses 3,000 years ago, is alive and at work today. That while we wait for Jesus’ return, we might experience His real presence now in us. Let us be a people of prayer: that those who suffer may be delivered; yes, from warfare, from famine, from neglect, from abuse – but might be delivered from a dark place – where they do not know God. Let us pray that they might encounter Jesus as Saviour. O come, o come Emmanuel…
with hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, November 22, 2023
HIS YOKE
Then Eli realized that the Lord was calling the boy. So, Eli told Samuel, “Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’”
1 Samuel 3:8b-9a
In Worship this past Sunday, we were ‘dramatically told’ the account of God’s call to the young man, Samuel. God called Samuel four times before he was able to really hear God’s voice. Sometimes we may sense God’s call, but we turn away from that gentle prodding because we can’t really believe God might speak to us in that way.
A young woman shared with me about her recent experience of such a situation. She was singing praises and praying during a worship service and she felt God’s voice saying, ‘Put your hands on the girls’ shoulders standing next to you’. Not knowing the other person, and being a little shy, she held back. Just a short time after that, the leader of the Worship gathering began to pray and he said, ‘Take a moment now and just put your hands on the shoulders of the person next to you and join me in praying for them.’ Coincidence?
God is patient with us and will continue to pursue us, even when we turn the other way, or try to avoid God’s call. We can make ourselves more ready to hear God’s voice if we take time to regularly pray and read God’s word – the Bible. This helps us be in a state of spiritual readiness. Having read, listened and meditated upon the words of the Scriptures we deepen our faith in the reality that God has again and again spoken to His people.
May we all seek to put ourselves in a place where we can truly say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’; and welcome God’s voice once again into our hearts and minds.
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, November 14, 2023
HIS YOKE
Then Eli realized that the Lord was calling the boy. So, Eli told Samuel, “Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’”
1 Samuel 3:8b-9a
A fascinating account in the first book of Samuel tells of how God diligently pursues the young man, Samuel. We read that Samuel didn’t yet know the LORD. That is, the word of LORD had not yet been revealed to him. This causes me to pause. Samuel was in the temple – the house of God – all day, everyday. He was ‘about’ the business of the ‘Church’ all the time. How could he not know the LORD?!
It is a passage that is beautiful and troubling. Unfortunately, I believer there are often people ‘inside the Church’ who do not know the Lord. Before we start casting a judgmental gaze around the Church and make suggestions, let us think about ourselves. In what ways do we ‘go about the business of Church’ without really connecting with the Lord?
There are times when I will be praying and suddenly realize that my prayers have ceased, and I am thinking about a sporting event that I have to take my daughter to later on; or I’m getting myself upset about an interaction I had earlier. I can bring all things to the Lord in prayer, but often these thoughts take me away from seeking the Lord and turn into a me-focus, day-planning or self-pitying session! I realize I’m not looking for the Lord’s input, but simply a space for my thoughts to lead.
I imagine many of us have had that experience. May we all seek to put ourselves in a place where we can truly say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’; and welcome God’s voice once again into our hearts and minds.
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, November 7, 2023
HIS YOKE
Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ Jesus. They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them. Greet also the church that meets at their house.
Greet my dear friend Epenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in the province of Asia.
Romans 16:3-5
On Sunday November 12th, we will celebrate the 73rd Anniversary of our Church. We are blessed to have a guest preacher, a previous serving Minister, the Rev. Dr. Clyde Ervine. He will be reading and preaching on Romans 16:1-16. In that text, Paul lists over 25 people by name. He sends his greetings to them and expresses his deep gratitude for them. I’ve listed some of the names of Paul’s Christian friends above.
The International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church was on November 5th. Many of the Christians Paul names faced fierce persecution for their decision to follow Jesus. Epenetus, who Paul claims as the ‘first convert to Christ in Asia’, stood out to me. He was from Ephesus (west coast of Turkey) and held a position as Pastor in the early Christian Church. Many came to Christ from that region of Turkey during the 1st century, but we know that over the centuries the population of Christians has diminished greatly.
Though we may think that the persecution of Christians is a thing of the past, it is happening at an alarming rate in the 21st century. Let us pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ in the nations of: Afghanistan, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Central African Republic, Cuba, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Sudan and Turkey. These are countries in which the government allows or engages in severe violations of religious freedom. May God grant them peace and hope as they look to Jesus.
prayerfully in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, October 31, 2023
HIS YOKE
At the 2017 General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Canada, five reflections on the 'Five Solae' of the Reformation were written by different Ministers in our denomination. I've attached those reflections to this e-mail, and have placed my favourite one below.
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So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God— even as I try to please everyone in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.
1 Corinthians 10:31-33 (portion of full text for the reflection - 1 Cor. 10:23-33)
To God Alone be Glory - Soli Deo Gloria
by the Rev. Karla Wubbenhorst
“Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory,” (Psalm 115:1). Our churches and our Christian living get it wrong when the main focus becomes the interests or the subjectivities of human beings.
The Reformation saw clearly that the Christian life had to be theocentric (centred on God) rather than anthropocentric (centered on human beings). Our fundamental gospel is that GOD saves! Salvation is not of ourselves – God gave its objective basis in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. God the Father drew us; God the Spirit created faith in us. It is ALL of God. And so the GLORY goes ALL TO God.
A zeal for God’s glory, practically speaking, keeps all of God’s people in better harmony, as they lay aside the individual interests and agendas that divide them, and work for whatever will bring God the highest honour. In this spirituality the primary question is not, “how shall I ensure that my self-image gets the dignity it is entitled to, who will fight for my interests, how can I fill the hunger for all I need and want?” but recognizing that God has already given us ALL this: “how shall I live so that God can use me” – for the enhancement of His own reputation?”
Have you ever thought, if the universe were centred around us, what a tedium worship would be? The object of our praise would be far too small. Only God is glorious enough to captivate and satisfy us for all eternity.
With hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, October 25, 2023
HIS YOKE
In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit.
Judges 21:25
Chapter eight of The Story (A few good men…and women) recounts what happened to the Israelites after they settled into the Promised Land. Though they were faithful to God under the leadership of Joshua and the Elders of that time, they began to forget the LORD and turn inward, doing whatever they pleased.
The last verse in the book of Judges gives a reason for Israel’s godlessness: Israel had no king. To me, this is a surprising reason for the author to offer. I would have instead said: ‘In those days Israel turned away from the LORD; everyone did as they saw fit’. The author seems to be equating the two; that is, if there was a king, the people would serve the LORD.
Throughout history (including the nation of Israel) we have learned that simply having a king in place does not mean that all will be well! Kings, and other leaders of nations, have led the people very poorly and demonstrated great arrogance, greed, and violence. What the author longs for, is a king who would submit to the ultimate King – the LORD God.
The book of Judges anticipates that a great king will truly guide the chosen people to serve the LORD. It predicts that this king will set them free from themselves and point them to true worship, joy and fulfillment. Though David fulfilled some of that prophetic hope, we know that the true King was yet to arrive. The King of kings, the Saviour of the world – Jesus Christ came 1,000 years after king David. May we follow our true King Jesus as we reflect His love to our world.
With hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, October 18, 2023
HIS YOKE
Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.
Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:7-9
Chapter seven of The Story (The Battle Begins) recounts the Israelites entry into the Promised Land. Before they enter, the LORD meets with Joshua (see text above) and gives him the words he needs so that he might fill Moses big shoes. The LORD says: As I was with Moses, so I’ll be with you! He is told three times: be strong and courageous! (v.6-9). The LORD points Joshua to the ‘Book of the Law’ to give him help in his time of need.
When I was in 1st year at University of Guelph, my roommate believed he was going through spiritual warfare and told me one evening, before bed, that he sensed the power of evil strongly; he knew it was going to be a bad night (wrestling demons!). Since I didn’t bring Fluffy (my fav’ stuffy) to Uni, I clung to my Bible that night. Somehow it gave me confidence...not a big book – but it held big truths; and I found rest.
The teachings of God were given to the people of Israel as they travelled through the wilderness. Though we may look at those early books of the Old Testament as containing just a bunch of rules and regulations, the Chosen People saw God’s love for them shining through. They knew God was calling them out of the world to live holy lives of purpose and hope. Joshua leaned on the Word of God to guide him through the challenges he faced.
As followers of Jesus, we continue to lean on God’s promises recorded in the Scriptures. May we be strong and courageous as we put our hope in the power of Jesus – the One through whom we enter into the Promised Land.
With hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, October 11, 2023
HIS YOKE
…the people grew impatient on the way; they spoke against God and against Moses…Then the Lord sent venomous snakes among them; they bit the people and many Israelites died. The people came to Moses and said, “We sinned when we spoke against the Lord and against you. Pray that the Lord will take the snakes away from us.” So Moses prayed for the people. The Lord said to Moses, “Make a snake and put it up on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live.” So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, they lived.
Numbers 21: ~ 4-9
Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.
John 3:14-15
Chapter six of The Story (Wandering) is a long chapter, but there are many interesting stories to read. One such account (see text above) describes the suffering of the people due to poisonous snake bites they have received as punishment for their grumbling. The people are told to look upon a bronze snake on a pole and then they will be saved?!!
John 3:16 is so well known - For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. But the verses just prior (printed above), spoken by Jesus, point to that incident when Moses was guiding the Israelites through the wilderness. Many were dying, but if they humbled themselves and confessed their sin, God provided a way out. They had to believe that God could heal them by looking upon this symbol – the bronze snake on a pole. Many Israelites probably refused – and died.
Jesus points to that event and declares that he too must be ‘lifted up’ that all who look upon him (have faith in him) will be saved. Jesus is not speaking of being healed from a physical plague, but our state of spiritual sickness. The promise of grace is that simply by looking upon, and believing in, the One who was lifted up on the cross, we might have eternal life.
With hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, October 4, 2023
HIS YOKE
In the fifth chapter of The Story we have the unveiling of ‘The Ten Commandments’ – given by the LORD to Moses, to pass on to the people. I simply write them below in an abbreviated form…
And God spoke all these words:
I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
1. You shall have no other gods before me…
2. You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything…
3. You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God…
4. Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
5. Honor your father and your mother…
6. You shall not murder.
7. You shall not commit adultery.
8. You shall not steal.
9. You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
10. You shall not covet…
Exodus 20:1-17
May the Lord grant us wisdom in keeping the commands of our God, and seeking the wisdom of Jesus as we seek to live into the higher calling he pointed to – the spirit of the law.
With hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, September 26, 2023
HIS YOKE
When you enter the land that the Lord will give you as he promised, observe this ceremony. And when your children ask you, ‘What does this ceremony mean to you?’ then tell them,
‘It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt and spared our homes when he struck down the Egyptians.’”
Exodus 12:25-27a
The fourth chapter in The Story tells of the amazing act of God as the people of Israel were set free from slavery in Egypt. The final act of deliverance is described in chapter twelve of Exodus. Every Jewish household sacrificed a lamb and took some of its’ blood to put on the doorframes of their homes. They ate unleavened bread with the meat of the sacrifice as they waited for Yahweh to deliver them.
The Passover celebration was first celebrated on their final evening in Egypt as the destroying spirit ‘passed over’ and spared the Israelites (seeing blood on their doorframes) and killed every firstborn in Egypt. Pharaoh finally set the Israelites free. The Passover has been celebrated every year by the Jewish nation since that time - about 3,400 years!
When Christians celebrate ‘Holy Communion’, we relate to the Passover meal. We see Jesus as the Passover Lamb who was sacrificed once and for all. We speak of the bread as being the body of Christ broken and the wine as being the blood of Christ poured out for the forgiveness of sins. Deserving death, due to our sin, we have been spared – ‘passed over’ and given life through the sacrifice of our Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Let us gather with Christians around the entire world this Sunday for ‘the Lord’s Supper’ in remembrance, gratitude and celebration.
With hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, September 19, 2023
HIS YOKE
But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.
Genesis 50:19-21
The third chapter in The Story is entirely focused on one key character: Joseph. Well, that’s not entirely true. Prominent Egyptians, his brothers and his father (Jacob) play important roles, but most importantly the LORD shows up. Joseph wouldn’t have survived all the highs and lows in his life were it not for the LORD’s hand of guidance.
There is a steady theme in Joseph’s story (Genesis 37 - 50) à death and resurrection. No, Joseph doesn’t literally die (until last verse of Genesis) but he enters the ‘realm of death’ so to speak a few times. His brothers wish to kill him, but he is saved by their desire to make money off him by selling him as a slave. He is falsely accused of rape and is thrown into prison for years. For many, that would mean death; yet he rises to new life and power in Pharaoh's court.
What is most profound for the people of God to realize is how Joseph handles ‘new life’ when it is offered. He knows it is God who lifts him from death to life each time. Because of this belief, he is able to show grace (see quote above) even to his enemies. Joseph believes in God’s plan. He believes that despite appearances, God is in control; God is good; all the time!
With hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, September 13, 2023
HIS YOKE
The LORD looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering he did not look with favor. So Cain was very angry, and his face was downcast.
Then the LORD said to Cain, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.”
Genesis 4:4-7
The above is a small part of the opening chapter of The Story – taken from Genesis 4. We can come up with many theories about why Abels’ offering was looked upon with favour by the LORD and Cains’ was not, but what is important in that passage is how Cain responds. Does he hear God’s voice, calling him to turn from anger and seek to do what is right, or does let sin have its’ way? Read the next verse to find out! (I think you know).
So many great thinkers throughout history have wrestled with the last line in the text above: [sin] desires to have you, but you must rule over it. John Steinbeck writes at some length about the interpretation of that verse of the Bible in his novel, East of Eden. He comes to the conclusion, after careful consideration of the Hebrew word ‘timsel’, that God is saying, you ‘may’ rule over sin. This is different than a command: ‘you must’. In that verse, Steinbeck believed that God was giving humanity the freedom and power to do what is right. I greatly appreciate this interpretation.
Friends, like Cain, there are times when we feel we are not treated fairly; maybe even by God! Yet, instead of striking out with hatred and allowing sin to have its’ way with us, we are free to do what is right. May God grant us the wisdom, power, and goodness to turn from evil and to live in love.
With hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, September 5, 2023
HIS YOKE
The LORD looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering he did not look with favor. So Cain was very angry, and his face was downcast.
Then the LORD said to Cain, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.”
Genesis 4:4-7
The above is a small part of the opening chapter of The Story – taken from Genesis 4. We can come up with many theories about why Abels’ offering was looked upon with favour by the LORD and Cains’ was not, but what is important in that passage is how Cain responds. Does he hear God’s voice, calling him to turn from anger and seek to do what is right, or does let sin have its’ way? Read the next verse to find out! (I think you know).
So many great thinkers throughout history have wrestled with the last line in the text above: [sin] desires to have you, but you must rule over it. John Steinbeck writes at some length about the interpretation of that verse of the Bible in his novel, East of Eden. He comes to the conclusion, after careful consideration of the Hebrew word ‘timsel’, that God is saying, you ‘may’ rule over sin. This is different than a command: ‘you must’. In that verse, Steinbeck believed that God was giving humanity the freedom and power to do what is right. I greatly appreciate this interpretation.
Friends, like Cain, there are times when we feel we are not treated fairly; maybe even by God! Yet, instead of striking out with hatred and allowing sin to have its’ way with us, we are free to do what is right. May God grant us the wisdom, power, and goodness to turn from evil and to live in love.
With hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, August 29, 2023
HIS YOKE
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
I’ve always loved that first line of this verse: the word of God is alive and active. That teaching calls to mind words of the prophet Isaiah: As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. – Isaiah 55:10-11
As we begin another Church season, we are approaching the Holy Scriptures, the word of God, very differently than other years. We will be reading large, paraphrased portions of the Bible as we follow The Story – The Bible as one Continuing Story of God and His People. My hope is that the word of God will continue to accomplish God’s purpose in our hearts as individuals and as the body of Christ.
Let us be prayerful; believing that God is earnestly desiring to mature and grow us as disciples of Jesus in the world. May we welcome a fresh approach to the unchanging trust of the beautiful story of God’s love for humanity. May God’s word dig deep; disturbing us where needed, and granting us grace and peace in our time of need.
With hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
HIS YOKE
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23
During my first summer at St. Giles Kingsway we held a children’s camp. A theme that week was ‘the fruits of the Spirit’. There was a different fruit used to represent each of the attributes Paul described as evidence of the Holy Spirit at work in us.
The strawberry was used for love; perhaps because it looks like a heart? The spiritual attribute that I think best matched the fruit was: pear - patience. The pear does not ripen on the tree. It is harvested when mature but I will only ripen after it is picked. It ripens from the inside out.
When we become Christians we are not quite ripe – or ready. We seek to become more like Christ, but this takes time. As we read the list of the fruits of the Spirit above we may feel rather immature! Let us be patient with ourselves as we welcome God’s Holy Spirit to work in our hearts. May we be matured from the inside out for the glory of God and the blessing of Christ’s Church.
With hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, August 15, 2023
HIS YOKE
We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And ourfellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. We write this to make our joy complete.
1 John 1:3-4
It is likely that John’s letters were the last ‘books’ added to the New Testament; ~ 90 AD. John spoke to a maturing community of disciples 60 years after Jesus’ death and resurrection. He writes as an Apostle of Jesus testifying to what he saw and heard. He writes with purpose: that others may share in the joy of Christian fellowship.
As followers of Jesus these words are powerful! John believes that genuine fellowship with God unifies us with Christ and with one another. This leads us into joy…he writes so that their (& our) joy might be complete. Many things contribute to our happiness but Christian relationships complete our joy.
As we grow in our relationship with our living God, may we also experience a deepening joy in our relationships with one another – the body of Christ – His Church.
With hope in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday August 8, 2023
THE STORY
This Study and Worship series will begin this Fall on Sunday, September 10th - Rally Day. We will focus on a book co-authored by Max Lucado and Randy Frazee entitled: The Story: The Bible as one continuing story of God and His people. Many congregations have used the book (as it was intended) to help their Church families walk through the whole Biblical narrative within a 'University year' (September through April).
It is written with the purpose of helping all of us, by the end of the series, to have a better understanding of the Bible as a unified 'story'; in particular, to help us connect the Old Testament to the Christian focus on Jesus.
There are small group discussion guides and children's classes which our Church may make use of to help us all get to the heart of the Scriptures.
Every household may receive a copy of the book in order to follow along. We cover one chapter a week (about ~15 pages) beginning September and ending in April 2024.
Please ask Pastor Tim, Beth McWhinnie or Sandra Hamlyn for a copy (if you don't have one yet when you see them on a Sunday, or during the week (the cost is covered).
May our good Lord bless us through this summer with health and rest.
Joy in Christ,
Pastor Tim
Tuesday, August 1, 2023
THE STORY
Some have heard about the Study and Worship series that will begin this Fall on Sunday September 10th. We will focus on a book co-authored by Max Lucdo and Randy Frazee entitled; The Story: The Bible as one continuing story of God and his people. Many congregations have used the book (as it was intended) to help their Church families walk through the whole Biblical narrative in the space of one year (about 9 months).
It is written with the purpose of helping all of us by the end of the series, to have a better understanding of the Bible as a unified story. There are small group discussion guides and children’s classes which our Church may make use of to help us all get to the heart of the Scriptures. Every household may receive a copy of the book so that you can follow along. We cover one chapter a week (about 15 pages) beginning September and ending in May 2024. Please ask Pastor Tim, Beth McWhinnie or Sandra Hamlyn for a copy when you see them on Sunday, or during the week (the cost is covered).
May our good Lord bless us through this summer with health and rest.
Joy in Christ,
Pastor Tim