Pray It Forward

In 2014, God did some really great things at New Life and I learned a few lessons along the way.  When 2014 began, we were without a building.  As 2015 begins, we now have a renovated building and a list of new ministry opportunities which we hope to launch very soon.

Most of you probably remember the Pay It forward movement.  If you saw the movie, "Pay It Forward" (2000), then you understand the basic idea -- randomly show three acts of kindness (something a person can't do for themselves) and change the world.  It's a great concept!  

Another great idea has come along -- "Pray It Forward".  If you google that phrase you will notice that the idea has been around for a while.  In fact, pray it forward is a biblical idea.  Remember Joshua and the battle of Jericho?  God promised to give Joshua and the Israelites the city of Jericho.  All they had to do was "pray it forward" by walking around the city seven times on the seventh day.  God gave them the victory before the battle even started.

How about the healing of Naaman (2 Kings 5:1-19).  Remember his story?  Naaman was the captain of the army of Aram (Syrian or Aramean).  He was a warrior, but also leprous.  Although he wasn't an Israelite, he heard about the prophet Elisha from a servant girl.  When he travels to meet with the prophet with hopes of healing, he is disappointed by the prophet's command to wash in the Jordan river seven times.  At first he turns away, but then he "prays it forward" and goes and washes in the river.

What great need do you have that God wants to meet in 2015?  Is it the salvation of your spouse?  Is it the cure of your disease?  Is sit blessing for your children?  Or maybe spiritual and emotional growth in your own life?

What small or great promise has God given you that you are hoping to see fulfilled?  Is it the growth of your church or your career?  Is it the promise of debt-free living or peace in your home?

Over the next few weeks in January, I want to encourage you to -- 1) Identify a specific prayer focus, 2) Commit to memory 1 or 2 Bible verses which back up God's promise to you, and 3) Begin to consistently "Pray it forward".

I know God has some great things in store for 2015.  I believe that every failure in the Christian life is a prayer failure.  If you pray, pray through, and pray it forward, God's plans for your life will be fulfilled.

See you in 2015! Pastor Tom

The Miracle of Christmas

This Sunday, I'm celebrating the miracle of Christmas.  The Bible proclaims the sacred story of God's Son becoming the Savior of the World.  God planned it from before time began, but humanity began to see the salvation of the Lord only as a baby was born in a manger in Bethlehem.

When I think about the miracle of Christmas, I am reminded of two important spiritual truths -- 1) God loves small beginnings, and 2) when God puts into motion a plan or a promise, the promise will be fulfilled.

The miracle of Christmas produced great peace in the hearts of those greeting the baby Jesus for the first time in the Temple of the Lord.  Think of Simeon and Anna as they served faithfully in the Temple waiting for the fulfillment of Old Testament prophesy (Luke 2:21-40).  When Simeon saw, Jesus his heart was filled peace at the sight of the Lord's salvation.  God had a plan and His plan was being fulfilled.  Simeon's heart was at rest (Luke 2:29).

The miracle of Christmas also produces great joy and thanksgiving in the hearts of those awaiting salvation from the Lord.  Anna, like Simeon, was overjoyed when Jesus was presented at the Temple.  She was thankful to see that God's plan of salvation for Israel and the whole world was beginning.

This Christmas, I hope you will celebrate the incredible miracle of Jesus' birth.  It's amazing that God would become a baby to redeem the world and restore us to peace, joy, and love.

It's Christmas . . . Let's celebrate the birth of our Savior.  Spread the word and see you Sunday at New Life!  Pastor Tom

No Christmas?

On a recent trip back from St. Louis, I noticed a sign on the side of the road which challenged people to skip church this Christmas.  The basis of the sign was an imaginary letter from a young girl which reads, "Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas is to skip church!  I'm too old for fairy tales."  It was sponsored by the American Atheists National Convention, but, nevertheless, it caused me to think about the meaning and message of Christmas and how the church fits into the Christmas season.  So what if there was no Christmas and no church?

If there was no Christmas, there would be no celebration of Immanuel, God-with-us (Matthew 1:23); no celebration of God dwelling with men (John 1:12).  God would remain nothing more than a mere idea in the hearts of men and women; a distant designer who is indifferent to our trials or triumphs.

If there was no Christmas--no baby Jesus in a manager--then there would, of course, be no Easter.  If no Easter celebration, then no resurrection power or the promise of New Life in Christ!  If there was no Easter, then there is no more promise of "dead to sin and alive to God" (Romans 6).  No hope for heaven, no joy in a transformed life, and no peace with God.  Forgiveness would be nothing more than an empty word without spiritual power and the promise of eternity would only be real in a person's imagination.

If there was no Christmas, there would be no kingdom of God and no local church to proclaim the gospel and live out the compassion of Christ in a local community.  Without the historical reality of Christmas, there is no personal responsibility for sin and no need for salvation.  Without Christmas,  we have no message of hope for a world which is increasingly lost, secular, humanistic, broken, and corrupt.

So what if there was no Christmas?  And what if you and I simply skipped church this year and celebrated Christmas without Christ?  Would the world be a better place?  Would people live in peace in a new enlightened era in which God is a fairy tale and we exist to serve ourselves or worse our governments?  Would corruption cease?  Would humanity save itself?

No . . . I'm convinced that my life, your life, and the world would be a darker place void of God's amazing love, peace in our hearts, joy in our thoughts, and hope for a brighter day ahead.

I'm so grateful for Christmas and the church which is a gift from God to convey God's message of salvation to our local community.

Join with me this Christmas and worship our Savior at a local church.   If you are looking for a place to worship, we welcome you to New Life Community Church this Sunday, December 21st or Christmas Eve, December 24th.  Go to newlifecolumbia.org for more information.

All Things New

This Sunday, we begin a three part series titled, "All Things New".  Beginning this past January we choose Isaiah 43:18-19 as our theme verse for the year.  It reads like this . . .  ""Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.  See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."  

Isaiah 43 celebrates God's creative and regenerative purpose in our lives.  New Testament passages such as Romans 6, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, and Revelation 21:1-6 remind us that God is a God of redemption and new life.  Join in November as we re-dicover God's work of regeneration in us.  I'm praying that God would make "all things new" in your heart.  See you Sunday.  Pastor Tom


    

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is almost here. Last year at New Life, we focused on 30 Days of Thanksgiving and prayed that God would give us a new attitude of gratitude. For me, it really worked! Last year in November, I decided to stop waiting for my circumstances to change so that I could be thankful. Instead, I made a faith decision based in trust -- I decided to thank God for all the good things in my life and trust him with the situations which leave me discouraged or confused!

In 2014, we have been declaring Isaiah 43:18-19 which says, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."

In response, God has provided a building and given us opportunities to build new programs and ministries. In November, we will be celebrating with a Dedication Sunday on November 23rd and a Sunday of Vision on November 30th. We continue to believe that God is wanting to double everything at New Life -- double anointing of God's Spirit, double our time spent in prayer, double the finances of the church, double the families, and double the ministries which serve the community.

New Life is a blessing to many.  In November we will be sharing stories of thankfulness for God's grace and provision in our lives.  I invite you to share your testimony or participate in our Parade of Thanksgiving on November 23rd.

The Bible says that God inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3).  So let's praise Him together and invite His presence into our lives.

Making Room for God's Spirit

The past week at New Life, we have been focused on Hearing the Voice of God.  This Sunday we are looking into Acts 10 and the story of Cornelius and Peter.  Acts 10 is filled with supernatural happenings as well as interesting daily life details.  Each part of the story challenges us to remove barriers and make room for the Spirit's activity in our lives.

Cornelius was a Roman Soldier living in Caesarea and Peter was a Jewish follower of Christ Jesus serving in the seaport of Joppa.  What could have brought these two people together?  God's plan and the Holy Spirit.  Join us Sunday at New Life as we learn about hearing the voice of God.  See you Sunday.  Pastor Tom

Salvation

This week at New Life's mid-week service we are taking a look at one of our core beliefs -- SALVATION.  The Bible is full of stories about redemption, deliverance, and salvation.  The core belief of salvation encompasses three essential Biblical doctrines--1) The deity of the Lord Jesus Christ, 2) the fall of man, and 3) the salvation of man.

Thankfully, we serve a God of the second chance.  He is actively pursuing us with his love seeking to redeem our lives from the slavery of sin and fulfill his purpose for our lives.  The Bible teaches that we were all created in the image of God for a purpose (Genesis 1:26).  Our fallen nature leaves us in need of a second chance to connect with God and His purposes for this life and the life to come (Romans 3:10-12).

Through Jesus, God gives us a second chance and a new life (John 14:16, 2 Corinthians 5:17).  Because of his sacrifice on the cross, we are set free from the power of our fallen nature.  In Christ, we receive a new nature and a new purpose for living.

Salvation is a gift from God.  No one can escape the power of sin or earn their way into God's grace.  God's gift must be received by faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).  The bible also teaches us that God's gift should not be neglected as judgment for sin is real (Hebrews 2:2-3).

Join us Thursday at 6 PM as we dive deeper into this important Bible truth.  Pastor Tom

Paul and the voice of God

The Apostle Paul had a life-changing encounter with the risen Christ on the Damascus Road.  Acts 9 records the story.  Before the encounter, Paul was was a zealous Jew persecuting the church.  After the encounter, Paul became the leading Apostle in the spread of the church among the Gentiles.  How did this happen?  Paul heard the voice of God.

Now most of us aren't expecting God to reveal himself to us in such a dramatic fashion.  And yet, Paul's story is a good reminder that God can and does reveal himself in subtle and strong ways.  Join us Sunday as we continue to learn how to hear the voice of God and walk with Him!  Pastor Tom

Voice of God - New Testament

Last Week we began a new series focusing on hearing the voice of God.  The Old Testament has many great examples of God speaking in dramatic fashion.  When God met Moses at the burning bush, the trajectory of Moses' life changed.  Up until that time he had been living on the backside of the dessert perhaps trying to forget an episode earlier in his life (in Egypt) when he took matters into his own hands.  Then God showed up with a call and a cause and asked Moses to put his life into His hands.  It wasn't easy for Moses to "let go and let God"!  He had a number of excuses and his humility almost got in the way of God's plan.   But Moses said yes to God's call and cause and God worked mightily through him to deliverance his people from slavery.

This week we turn to the New Testament to look at two key leaders in the early church -- Peter and Paul.   Both men experienced a radical transformation and call to serve.  Peter was a disciple who walked with Jesus.  Sometimes he got it right and sometimes he messed up royally.  In fact, Peter denied the Lord and wept bitterly because of his failure.  After the death of Jesus, Peter was so discouraged that he said to the other disciples, "I am going fishing" (John 21) -- Peter was returning to his old way of life.  In that moment, Jesus met Peter and restored him to his call as a shepherd.  Following the Day of Pentecost, Peter became a leading figure in the early church.

When we first encounter Paul in the New Testament, he is assisting in the stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:58).  Saul was a devout Jew and worked to destroy the spread of Christianity until he met Jesus.  Acts 9 records Saul's dramatic encounter with Jesus on the Road to Damascus.  The rest is history -- Saul, now Paul became the leading Apostle to the Gentiles.  He led to way on three missionary journeys and wrote much of the New Testament.

Both Peter and Paul remind us that God can meet us and in a moment our lives can be redirected with purpose and potential.  I hope you will join us Sunday as we discover God's voice in their lives and ours.  See you Sunday, Pastor Tom

God's Not Dead

God's Not Dead will be showing at New Life Community Church tonight (Thursday, August 21st).  The Family Feast begins at 6 PM.  Movie showing will start around 6:30 PM.  Great movie.  Invite a friend and join us!

The Voice of God

Is the voice of God analogous to a thunder clap in the sky or a whisper in the wind?  How does God speak to you?  How did God speak to the saints in the Old Testament or to believers in the New Testament?  Hebrews 1:1-2 provides a framework for God's voice.  Hebrews records, "In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe."

We shouldn't skip over the obvious truth, namely, that God is a speaking God.  God loves to communicate with us!  Christian theology teaches us that God has revealed His divine nature to us in creation, through the prophets, and the gift of His Son, Christ Jesus.  Genesis, the book of beginnings opens with the words, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." (1:1)  Beginning in verse 3, "And God said" is repeated at least eight times in the opening chapter of the Bible.

So our creator God spoke creation into existence out of nothing--with His voice.  In Genesis, God spoke to Adam and Eve, to Cain, to Noah, to Abraham, to Isaac, to Jacob,  and then to Joseph.  In Exodus God called Moses . . . that's where we pick up.

God's people are in slavery; life is not so good.  The people are suffering in captivity.  Joseph and the Pharaoh which knew Joseph is long gone.  God hears his people groaning and speaks to a man named Moses.

Moses' story is remarkable because of his background and upbringing.  Although Hebrew, he was raised as an Egyptian, and later became the leader of God's people in the Exodus.  sunday we will look at the preparation of Moses and God's call at the burning bush.  Can't wait!  Pastor Tom

Voice of God

A new series begins at New Life Community Church on Sunday, August 24th entitled, "The Voice of God".  We will dig into the book of Exodus and the book of Acts looking at how God spoke to Israel and the early church.  Learning to hear the voice of God and apply his will and way to our lives is essential to walking with God today.  Share with your friends and invite them to New Life.

Building the Church

There's a lot of excitement at New Life.  This past week we had a terrific mid-week service.  If you missed it, you really missed it!  Renovations are coming along fast now.  Tomorrow morning another church form Southern Missouri is joining with us to continue renovations.

Sunday I plan to preach on 1 Corinthians 3 focusing on becoming a wise builder in God's kingdom.  Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 3:10, "By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care."

It's amazing what can happen in our lives, our families, and our church when we begin to go, give, serve, and sacrifice for God's cause and kingdom in specific and intentional ways.

If you can't join us tomorrow morning for the all-church work day, I hope you will make it to the Sunday worship gathering as we experience God's presence and learn new ways to become a wise builder in God's kingdom.  

Blessed to be a blessing, Pastor Tom

The Valley of Praise

This week at New Life we continue the series, Victory in the Valley.  We have been learning some important truths about redemption, transformation, the power of faith, and the dangers of giving up or giving in when we are going through a valley.

The message Sunday will come from 2 Chronicles 20.  It records the story of King Jehoshaphat leading the people in prayer and learning about the power of praise.  Praise, like thanksgiving, gets our focus off our problems and refocuses us on God's greatness and goodness. Join us at New Life at 10:15 AM.

FAMILY FEST @ New Life

September 13 at 4:00 PM, New Life is hosting a special event called "Family Fest".  The event will focus on kids and families and making the community aware of New Life's new facility.  You are invited to join us.  Please take a moment and put it on your calendar and make plans now to join in the fun.

We are expecting 30 volunteers to help make the event a success.  If you are willing to volunteer, please contact Pastor Tom at tom@newlifecolumbia.org.

On the Edge of Victory

Sometimes in life, we are so close to victory that we can almost taste it!  Have you ever been there?  So many times in life (too many times), I have been on the edge of victory.  I remember playing in the semi-finals of the NCCAA Men's Basketball Championships in 1992.  The game came down to a last second shot after our leading scorer blew out his knee.  Unfortunately, our opponents won the game and went on to win the championship.  We had come up short even though we were on the edge of victory.

Sometimes we don't know why we come up short or if there is anything to learn from our experience.  But, life certainly teaches us that you won't win again if you give up after loosing.  We all have moments in our life which look like or feel like that.  Times when we are certain we can win, but we come up short of the goal or the expectation.

The Israelites were at a similar place in Numbers 13 -- the edge of victory.  God had called them, led them, and provided for them out of slavery and through the wilderness.  Now they were on the edge of victory ready to possess the promised land.  One thing stood in the way . . .  fear!

Fear of the unknown.  Fear of change.  Fear of the obstacles.  Only one thing could overcome the fear.  Faith in God's goodness and God's plan to come through on His promises.

Fear can be crippling and it can steal your faith, your joy, and your hope.  If you are struggling with fear in some area of your life.  I encourage you to increase your faith in God.  Faith pleases God and invites Him to help you.  Join us Sunday as we consider faith on the edge of victory.  Pastor Tom

Valleys and Victory

A couple of weeks ago, we kicked off a new series at New Life called "Victory in the Valley".  I began the series because of the lives which God has allowed New Life to touch over the last few years.  As I thought about each life or family, I realized that each one was facing a valley of some type in their life.  For some, it has been financial bankruptcy, for others serious health issues or the loss of a loved one in a car accident.  We all face valleys.  In those moments of life our faith and trust in God comes into question.  We wonder if God is there or if he really has a plan for me?

Each week we have been looking at stories in the Bible which take place in a valley and provide a promise of victory.  We began with the Shepherd's Psalm.  Psalm 23:4 says, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

As a shepherd boy, David learned to trust in God as his shepherd even in dark valleys.  Later in life, he would need that trust.  The Shepherd's Psalm reminds us that God can lead us into quiet waters and green pastures even in the midst of a dark valley.

We considered the Valley of Transformation in Ezekiel 37 and learned that God can bring life even to "very dry bones".  If God can do it for his people, Israel, then God can do it for me today!  Last week, we were in the Valley of Redemption (Genesis 14) as Abraham redeem Lot from his status as a POW.

This week, we turn to the story of David and Goliath in the valley of Elah (1 Samuel 17).  We all know the story, it's a valley of victory for David.  He faced his fears with faith and overcame the giant.  If you are in a valley at this time in your life, remember that God can breathe life into your situation and that he is working to redeem your life and redeem others through you.  Ultimately, as children of God, we are victorious, so let's live with victory in the valleys of our lives knowing that God is with us!

See you Sunday at New Life in the Valley of Victory!  Pastor Tom

Making Church My Home

Home can be one of the greatest places on the planet.  God designed the home (i.e. the family) to meet our needs for companionship, provision, and protection.  When the home lets us down and sometimes it does, God offers to us the church.  This Sunday, I will be presenting a message entitled, "Making Church Your home".   Have you made New Life your spiritual home?   Join us Sunday as we apply this important spiritual truth.  Pastor Tom

Delighting in the Lord

One of my favorite scriptures is Psalm 37:4, "Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart."  The verses which follows are even better.  It reads like this, "Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun." (37:5-6)

"Delight" is not a difficult concept for us.  We all delight in someone or something.  I delight in fishing.  As a result, no matter how busy my schedule gets, I always find some time to go fishing.  I enjoy it that much.  the same is true of my relationship with Jeni and the kids.  I take delight in doing things together.  this week, Luke, my oldest son, has been home from college so we are building out a ceiling in our screened in porch.  Why now?  Because it is fun doing it together.  We take delight in working together.  It brings back good memories and produces new ones.

The good news is that God delights in you.  Let that sink in to your soul.  God delights in spending time with you and working together with you.  Here are two scriptures which remind us that God takes delight in his children.

Zephaniah 3:17

"The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; 

in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing."

Psalm 147:11

"The LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love."

What about you?  What do you take delight in?  Do you delight in food?  Do you find pleasure in family time?  Are you a workaholic or a shopaholic?  We all have "delights", some healthy, some unhealthy!  The most important delight is the joy and pleasure you feel form walking with God on a daily basis.

 There are many things in this world which distract us from enjoying our walk with God.  That is why Bible study and prayer is so important.  Take time to delight in your walk with the Lord by spending some alone time in prayer and Bible reading.  As you discipline yourself to spend time in the Lord's presence, your discipline will turn to desire and your renewed desire will produce "delight"!

"You're the Real MVP, Mom"

You might of saw it.  Kevin Durant received the NBA's MVP award earlier this week (http://www.cbsnews.com/news/kevin-durant-to-his-mother-youre-the-real-mvp/).  He was very gracious thanking his fellow teammates, his coaches, and his mom.   With tears in his eyes, he recounted the struggle and sacrifice that his mom went through in order to raise him and encourage him to succeed.

I'm grateful that I can share in Durant's affection for "mom".  I also have a mom who has been incredibly supportive down through the years.  Growing up, she taught us how to make cookies and enjoy life.  she also modeled for us what faith and prayer looked like.  I'm thankful for my mom and know she has made many sacrifices for me and our family.  Thanks mom!

I encourage you to take time this week to Thank your mom for her support in your life.  This Sunday at New life we will have a special tribune for moms.  I hope you will join us with your mom.  See you at New Life at 10:15 AM.  Pastor Tom

Prayer Conference @ New Life

This weekend, we are hosting our first ever Prayer conference.  I hope you will join us on Friday or saturday evenings.  On Friday, we will have some food and fellowship at 6 PM and then start the worship and prayer time at 7 PM.

The disciples personally witnessed the power of Jesus' prayer life.  Our Lord said that his church will be called a house of prayer.  Ever Christian should feel an urgency to pray, to seek, to hunger for more of God.

Let's come together and seek God's face and pour out our hearts before Him.  Perhaps God will show up in a special way.  Don't miss it.  See you Friday evening at New Life (1300 Blue Ridge Road).  Bring a friend!  Pastor Tom

The Sacrifice of Service

This Sunday, we will look again to the great example of Jesus washing his disciples feet (John 13).  It's a message that should probably be preached at least once every year in every church in America.

Everything about our culture today works against what Jesus teaches us in John 13.  When asked to serve at home, church, or go beyond the "call of duty" at work our first inclination is to ask "What's in it for me?"

When Jesus washed his disciple's feet, he showed us that service requires sacrifice and that it isn't about me, but what God can do through me!  Great families, great teams, and great churches are made up of people who are focused on what gets done, not on who gets credit for what gets done.  I'm praying that God will grant every New Lifer a new servant's heart for 2014!   Join us Sunday at New Life as we consider the sacrifice of service.  Pastor Tom

Easter 2014 Invite!

Easter 2014 is almost here.  Matthew 28:5-6 is my favorite Bible verse related to Easter.  It reads like this, "The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.  He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay."

Easter at New Life will be a celebration of Jesus death and resurrection.  Because he died, I am free.  Because he lives, He lives in me.  Share a Bible verse related to Easter with your friends and give them an invitation to join New Life for Easter.  See you Sunday at 1300 Blue Ridge Road (10:15 AM).

Christ is Risen - Easter Sunday 2014

Jesus died. He was buried.  Then on the third day, he rose from death.  The gospel record tells us that his tomb was guarded and sealed with Pilate's approval (Matthew 28:62-66).  The death of Jesus was no ordinary event.  His trial was a manipulation of justice.  His death was cruel and certain!  His resurrection from death was proof of His divine nature and the validity of his mission.

Jesus had come to teach, to proclaim the kingdom of God on earth, and to die for the sins of the world.  Now, Jesus was risen and alive forevermore.

This Easter, let's celebrate our Risen Savior by remembering that he died for you and me so that we too might experience new life.  Join us Sunday as we celebrate Easter with friends and family and remember that Jesus is the passover lamb who died for you and me.  Our special guest, Dr. Hagg (Chosen People Ministries), will lead us through a presentation of Messiah in the Passover".

Join us at New Life on Sunday at 10:15 AM.  Easter Egg Hunt for the children to follow the worship service.  Bring a friend.  See you Sunday, Pastor Tom.

Five Habits

Looking forward to a new series in May 2014 called "Five Habits of the Devotional Life".  Join us in May  at New Life (1300 Blue Ridge Road) as we build up a satisfying relationship with Jesus.

I Love My Church

Can't wait for April.  This April we are celebrating CHURCH with the I LOVE MY CHURCH Campaign.  There will be special opportunities to express appreciation for New Life, to work on the new property or facility, and to grow in Christ.  Pastor Tom will be preaching messages focused on the vision of New life and our core values -- BEGIN, BELONG, BECOME, and BRANCH OUT.  Join us in April as we celebrate the Lord's church!

Redemption and Reconciliation

The story of the prodigal son in Luke 15 is one of the best known stories in the Bible.  It teaches us about the dangers of a wandering heart, the work of the Holy Spirit, the love of Father God, and the potential for negative attitudes as an "elder brother".

There are a lot of lesson which can be learned in the story, but the main point of the plot is . . . God's love for the lost.  That's it -- God loves you, especially when you are lost! (Romans 5:8)

So what about lostness?!  The Bible teaches us that humanity is lost (that includes you and me).  We are lost in that (1) we "miss the mark of God's righteousness standards " (Romans 6:23), (2) we are alienated from God because of our sin (Colossians 1:21), and (3) we are emotionally and spiritually alone without God presence in our lives (Matthew 4:4).

Redemption changes everything!  Redemption reconciles us with God, restores our relationship with others, and rebuilds in us the image of God.  Join with us Sunday at New Life as we consider the biblical doctrine of redemption.  Blessings, Pastor Tom

Redemption

This Sunday we are kicking off a new series entitled, "Redemption".  It won't last long, so don't miss it.  Redemption is a key doctrine of the Christian faith.  Christianity teaches both righteousness and redemption.  Redemption teaches us about the love of God, forgiveness, grace, brokenness, lostness, and restoration and reconciliation.

There is a favorite story about redemption and forgiveness which preachers use from time to time.  The story takes place near Mexico City.  It seems a father and son had a falling out.  After cross words, the son left home and didn't return.  a year went by and the father longed to find his son, so . . . he placed an ad in the local paper.  It read something like this, "Hose, all is forgiven.  come home.  If you read this, meet me at the city square on Saturday at 12 noon."  That Saturday, when the father went to the square more than 100 "Hoses" were waiting in the square.  -- the story itself is most likely make believe, but the point is not.  Most of us are looking for forgiveness, restoration, and an opportunity to return "home".  God gives us this opportunity in Christ Jesus.

There are many stories of redemption in the Bible . . . 

Joseph’s story in Genesis is certainly one story of redemption—not only the redemption of his own life, but the redemption of his family as well.  Even though, Joseph was sold into slavery, mis-treated as a slave, and spent time in prison, he was later able to declare, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” (50:20) 

Exodus records the story of God’s deliverance of his people from slavery in Egypt.  God called Moses (Exodus 3) to lead his people out of slavery.  Following numerous miraculous signs (Exodus 7-11), God delivers his people out of bondage.  In the process, God’s people begin the practice of the Passover Feast which points to the blood of the lamb as the means of redemption for God’s people (Exodus 12).

The OT year of Jubilee — The year of Jubilee is best described as a “Sabbath year of Sabbath years”.   It occurred every 50 years.  The Sabbath year had four provisions: 1) the freeing of all slaves, 2) the cancellation of all debts, 3) the land would lay dormant, and 4) a return of all land to the original owners. (Exodus 21:2-6; 23:10-12; Leviticus 25:13-17)

Ruth 4 tells of the story of Naomi's redemption through Ruth and Boaz.  Ruth was a Gentile woman of Moab, who became an ancestor of King David and the Messiah.  Because of a famine, a Jewish man with his family went to live in Moab.  While there his sons married Moabite women—one of them was Ruth.  Not long after, the man as well as his two sons died, leaving Naomi, Ruth’s mother-n-law destitute.  Naomi with Ruth by her side returns to Bethlehem. It is then that Boaz meets Ruth and later marries her fulfilling the duties of the kinsman-redeemer.  In this way, Ruth became a grandparent of the Israel’s greatest king—king David.


In the New Testament, there is Nicodemus (John 3), Lazarus (John 11), and Zacchaeus (Luke 19), and don’t forget Mary and Martha (John 12), the prodigal son (Luke 15) or the repentant man crucified with Jesus (Luke 23:43).

And what about you?  Are you allowing God in Christ Jesus to redeem you and restore you to God's promises for your life.  Join us Sunday as we consider this important Christian truth.

DATE NIGHT at New Life

The DATE NIGHT Conference is this Friday and Saturday (March 15-16).  Hope you can make it.  We are looking forward to loads of fun, food, and fellowship.  Ministry to your children is provided.  There is still room for a few more to register, so go to http://www.newlifecolumbia.org/date_night.aspx.  You can register online and then just bring a check for $30.00 with you to the event.  We will enjoy dinner on Friday night and breakfast snacks and lunch together on Saturday.  Food will be provided for the children as well.

At the DATE NIGHT Conference you will be encouraged to enrich your marriage by accepting the Date Night Challenge.  See you there.

Daniel - a great man with a great vision

Daniel is an exceptional character in the Old Testament, and like all great heroes of faith, Daniel’s character was forged in the fires of adversity.  As we look back at Daniel’s life, we also look up to him because of his humility, his sense of responsibility for wrong doing, his hopefulness, and his faithfulness to God—all of these characteristics made for a truly great life.

Don’t get me wrong, Daniel lived a great life, but his life was certainly not great like “celebrity great”.  His greatness would probably be ignored by our standards today.  His life was in many ways quite difficult.  He was an exile for 70 years in a foreign land.  His homeland lay in ruins and his people had been scattered by Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians.

Like all the heroes of the Bible, we admire Daniel because of his faith and faithfulness to God even though his immediate circumstances were not what he wanted them to be!  Hebrews gives us other examples of faith—people like Abraham, Noah, Moses, and Rahab who believed God even though they often didn’t see the results of their prayers or faith-filled lives.  Here’s what Hebrews 11:39 says, “These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.”

That something better was Christ Jesus.  The heroes of faith looked forward to the day when Messiah would arrive, we look back and by faith await his second coming.  The crucial question is . . . how will we live in the meantime?

Daniel lived a great life focused on God's plans and purposes.  As a result he received insight into dreams and visions.  Daniel saw what God saw even before it happened.  I wonder how much more we could see, if we lived a little closer to the Lord through prayer and the study of scripture.  

Join us this week as we take a look at what Daniel saw in the vision of the Seventy Weeks (Daniel 9).
See you at 10:15 AM at our new location (1300 Blue Ridge Road).

Daniel 6 - Daniel in the lion's den

I thought I would share some thoughts on Daniel 6 which records the miraculous story of Daniel in the lion's den.  Daniel was an exceptional character and he served an exceptional God!  Daniel was successful; he was envied; and he was targeted by his enemies.

Most of us know the story from Sunday school.  If you haven't read the story, take a few minutes this week and read Daniel 6.  Daniel was successful for three reasons: 1) he chose character over comfort (1:8), 2) he chose discipline over disorder (6:10), and 3) he chose love of God over love of life (6:10, 13).  But, his success and his love for God eventually got him thrown into the lion's den.  This trial in Daniel's life has a happy ending, because God sent an angel to close the mouths of the lions.

I believe in miracles and I hope you do too.  So, It's not difficult for me to believe that the God of the universe could close the mouths of lions or protect Daniel's friends in the fire.  What is of interest to me is Daniel's situation in Babylon.  Here's what I mean . . . .

Daniel, along with his friends, came to Babylon as an exile; a slave.  He was chosen to serve in the king's court and received special training.  The city and the culture was foreign and alien to Daniel's beliefs, values, and religious practices.  Jerusalem was only a memory and the Temple was long gone.  And yet, here's Daniel serving with success and continuing to believe and live for his God in a city and a culture which does not support his beliefs or behaviors.

In America today, I hear numerous Christians bemoaning the fact that America has changed and is no longer a Christian nation. As Christians, we tend to bemoan prayer-less schools and yet we live in prayer-less homes.  We bemoan the lack of morals in our society and yet, statistics demonstrate that Christians get divorced as commonly as non-believers.   Daniel's story is a reminder to believers today that it is possible to faithfully live for God in adverse situations.  God never promised us a "rose garden" or easy situations, but He did promise to be faithful to us as we faithfully walk with Him.

Daniel's story reminds me of God's faithfulness and challenges me to live for God in difficult situations.  Go for it . . . you can do it!  See you Sunday!  Pastor Tom

The Greatest lesson learned

In Daniel 4:27, Daniel gave some good advice to king Nebuchadnezzar.  The New Living Translation reads like this, "'King Nebuchadnezzar, please accept my advice. Stop sinning and do what is right. Break from your wicked past and be merciful to the poor.  Perhaps then you will continue to prosper."  

Daniel chapter 4 is a great reminder of the greatest lesson in the Bible - God rules in human history and in our lives today.  The main message of Christianity is just that--that God rules and his heavenly kingdom has come to earth in His Son, Christ Jesus (Matthew 3:2; 4:17).

And yet, we often resist God's heavenly rule in our daily lives (Romans 3:23).  In fact, the pathway of human history is paved with kings, kingdoms, and ordinary people like you and me who have turned away from God's paths, purposes, or promises to live as they please.  Sadly, this other way leads humanity into darkness and destruction.  Our prized human independence without God's shining light leads us nowhere.  The Bible calls this sin, not to condemn us, but to point us to a better way!

The real message of Christianity is not simply that God is sovereign in his rule over creation and human history; it is the message that in Christ Jesus we can invite God's heavenly kingdom into our hearts and live for the advancement of that kingdom.  This is why Jesus taught us to pray, ""'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven . . . " (Matthew 6:9-13)

What we often fail to understand is that living for the glory of God's kingdom is at first sacrifice and self-denial, but in the end abundance, joy, and victory!  That's why the same advice which Daniel gave the king in Daniel 4:27, Jesus gave to us as he launched his public ministry more than 2,000 years ago, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near." (Matthew 4:17)

I remember the story of the Chinese musician who just couldn't "face the music".  It goes something like this - "Many years ago a man conned his way into the orchestra of the emperor of China although he could not play a note. Whenever the group practiced or performed, he would hold his flute against his lips, pretending to play but not making a sound. He received a modest salary and enjoyed a comfortable living Then one day the emperor requested a solo from each musician. The flutist got nervous. There wasn’t enough time to learn the instrument. He pretended to be sick, but the royal physician wasn’t fooled. On the day of his performance, the impostor took poison and killed himself. The explanation of his suicide led to a phrase that found its way into the English language: “He refused to face the music”. (As cited by Max Lucado’s Just Like Jesus. Nashville: Word Publishing, 1998, pp. 110-11, from the following source: Paul Lee Tan. The Encyclopedia Of 7700 Illustrations. Rockville, Md.: Assurance Publishers, 1979, pp. 562-63). 

I know that is a somewhat dismal story, but I share it because I'm convinced that we will destroy our very lives if we refuse to "face the music".  God has a heavenly kingdom which rules in the world today.  He can rule in your heart and mine, only when we repent and turn from our destructive ways to walk in his light and life.  I hope you will.  Let today be the day you choose to humbly invite Jesus Christ into your life and live for His kingdom rather than your own. (1 Corinthians 10:31)

Have a great week.  Pastor Tom

Daniel 4

Looking forward to Sunday worship!  This sunday we will peer into Daniel 4 and continue to learn about two ancient characters - Daniel and Nebuchadnezzar.  In Daniel 4, king Nebuchadnezzar has another dream.  This time the dream causes him to be afraid.  The dream is foretold, interrupted, and then fulfilled--all in chapter 4.

The moral of the story focuses on humility, pride, and God's rule in the world today.  Join us for the rest of the story at New Life @ the ARC (10:15 AM)  See you there, Pastor Tom

Faith in the Fire

This past Sunday, we studied the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel 3.  It's an inspiring story of courage and faith in the face of certain death.  There are perhaps two unexpected twists to the story.  The first is that Daniel's friends didn't bow.  The second is that they didn't burn!

It was not all that uncommon in those ancient days for rulers to build images or idols to themselves as gods.  The Egyptians worshipped their Pharaohs as gods.  The ancient Japanese had an imperial cult as did the Romans.  Anyways, in those days emperor worship as well as idol worship was common.  For an Israelite, however, this was specifically forbidden (Exodus 20).  Daniel's friends took the commands of scripture seriously.  When faced with the fiery furnace, they refused to bow.  WOW!  This should give us courage and inspire pour faith today.  What are you facing which causes you to want to "turn tail and run" or give in and just "go with the flow"?

Another amazing twist in the story is the "fourth man in the fiery furnace".  The courage and faith of Daniel's friend placed them in the greatest trial of their life.  But, God did not abandon them; he sent a messenger into the fire with them.

It's true, they didn't bow and they didn't burn!  This should inspire us to live with courage and faith.  It can also teach us something really important about faith and God.  Faith isn't trusting in "belief" or positive attitude.  Faith is leaving the outcomes to God and serving him anyways.  I want that kind of faith.

The story also teaches us that God shows up when his children are in the fire.  It's no fun to be in the "fiery furnace" of life.  But, Daniel 3 teaches us that God (like a good earthly father) is drawn to his children when they are facing overwhelming odds.

You might be going through a trial today.  My advice to you is stand up for the Lord be consistent in your faith and courage.  Your faith will draw God's presence and help into your situation.

Have a great week!  Pastor Tom

Date Night at New Life!

Looking forward to Date Night at New life!  Focus on the Family has put together some great material called "THE DATE NIGHT CHALLENGE".  Reserve the date for March 7-8, 2014.  Register at http://www.newlifecolumbia.org/date_night.aspx.

A New Anointing

Our annual leadership retreat begins tonight.  This year we titled the retreat, "A New Anointing".  We are asking God to give New Life leaders a new anointing, a new heart and mind, a new ministry, and at least one new person reached for Christ by every leader.

As I was thinking about God's anointing, I remembered David's anointing in 1 Samuel 16.  In 1 Samuel 16, God sends Samuel to the house of Jesse to anoint a new king over Israel.  Here's a few leadership lessons from this story.

1. Leaders have to forget the past and get going with the future.  God is ready to anoint a new king and Samuel is still grieving over Saul.  If I want to experience God's anointing for ministry, I need to be living in the present with a focus on the future.  Are you focused on the past, the present, or the future?

2. Leaders must have the "right stuff" in their hearts.  1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us that God isn't impressed by outward appearance, he looks at our hearts.  Remember the movie, Captain America.  Why was he chosen?  He had a kind heart!  I loved that about that movie.  God looks at our heart.  Matthew 5:8 says, "The pure in heart shall see God."  What about your heart?  Do you have the "right stuff"?

3. Leaders are often prepared / trained in "small beginnings".  David became a great king, but he began as a shepherd boy out in the field.  As a shepherd, David learned of God's faithfulness.  Plus he learned to be faithful and to gain confidence and courage in God's provision.  Is God preparing you for something bigger by training you in "small beginnings".

4. God's anointing brings the presence of the Holy Spirit.  In church ministry, you can do everything right and still not much happens.  Why?  Because it takes a move of God's Spirit to transform a heart or restore a family to God.  The truly important things in a person's life can't be changed without God's Spirit at work.  Are you asking God for a new anointing?

I'm looking forward to a new anointing in 2014.  I need God's presence to empower me and to direct me.  Through him, I can do all things (Philippians 4:13)!  Without Him, I can do nothing (John 15:5)!  See you tonight or see you Sunday!  Pastor Tom