A Heart Motivated By Grace

The clocks were pushed back an hour last night and our bodies will have to adjust to a new sleep schedule as Daylight Savings Time is put away for another winter season. The weather remains surprisingly kind though, unseasonably warm with pristine blue skies again today. Chuck Vanderscheuren welcomed us and invited us to join the adult Bible study on Wednesdays.

Other announcements and reminders included....
1. We have a mission barrel in the hall outside the sanctuary for shoes, new underwear, socks and other clothing items for Christmas to be distributed by the Salvation Army.
2. Also there is a need for new or lightly used toiletries for women.

There was also a building update.
The outside lights are now up and all that is left is for these to be wired. The garage will be started this Monday. Someone will be coming to determine where and how to install the bell. A sound system upgrade and a dishwasher will be coming soon.

We then entered into a time of worship, which was followed by the receiving of our offerings and a time of prayer.

A Heart Motivated By Grace

By way of introduction, pastor Terry White noted that despite the frenzy of activity surrounding the election, God is in control. Do you believe God is in control?

Pastor White then shared about a free car wash another church he was part of used to do. People often tried to pay for the free car wash and hot dogs. They had a hard time receiving something good absolutely free.

Today's sermon would be based upon and extracted from Romans 3:21-26

Pastor White brought a couple object lessons. A law book, a robe and cross. In the Old Testament righteousness was given through the law. But now, apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known.

In Galatians 3:21 Paul amplifies this.  Is the law, therefore, opposed to the promises of God? Absolutely not! For if a law had been given that could impart life, then righteousness would certainly have come by the law.

In the old way, obedience was the only route to righteousness, though we were incapable of fulfilling it. But In Galatians Paul goes on explain that the Law was like a tutor to help keep us in line till grace was revealed. The goal is not to have a tutor, but rather to live a righteousness that comes from Christ.

There are two ways to live, under the law or under grace. The former is an enormous burden; the latter is liberation.

He then read snippets from The Ragamuffin Gospel, a book designed to bring hope to the bedraggled, beat-up, and burnt-out, the marginalized folks to whom Jesus ministered.

Christian life, living fully in Christ, is not a game in which we try to "appear" good. What would your life look like if it were truly motivated by Jesus Christ?

The Gospel, the Good News, is not about avoiding hell or to avoid feeling shame.

What is a life of faith? Answer: it is trust. Faith means to trust God. Terry stated that you could replace the word "faith" with "trust" in the Bible and it would not change a thing.

He then addressed the matter of accepting grace. It is hard to receive grace when we are not honest with ourselves. The first step is recognition of how fallen we are. This is the heart of the Gospel. Once we realize how fallen we are we can then appreciate the free gift of God's mercy and the sacrifice He made on our behalf.

The most gracious people are those who have grown the most to understand how dark their hearts are.

What does a heart look like when it's been thoroughly immersed in grace.

The irony of this freedom is that it was bought with a price. It was only free for us; it cost Him everything.

Returning to the passage in Romans 3:
23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 25 God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith.

There is much more that can be said, but at the end of all here's the question: Have you placed your trust in Jesus Christ?

Finally, the sweet sound of amazing grace of Jesus Christ frees us from the necessity of self-deception.

The moment our focus shifts from my badness to His goodness, it means I no longer dwell on "what have I done?" and so I can focus on what He has done.

In Romans 2:4 Paul asks, "Do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?"

We then celebrated Communion together.

Because We've Been Forgiven

Grey skies. The departing edge of winter attempted to re-visit the Northland with its gloomy face, but here inside New Life Covenant resurrection light continues to shine.

"Good morning! I'm glad you're here," Pastor Brad exclaimed at the opening of this morning's service. Brad went on to share how he had just returned from the Town & Country Commission in Chicago, a gathering whose aim is to create healthy, missional churches in rural settings. Rural areas are a mission field. There is much need in our rural communities.

Announcements were many this morning.
1. Cheryl Borndal reminded us that camp is coming. Please submit your registration forms. Those wishing to contribute for scholarships should call Cheryl.
2. There are two weeks left for Adventure club before breaking for the summer. The 29th of April we will have a special evening of showcasing the creative work of not only our kids but also our congregation. Please contact Susie Newman if you have anything you'd like to share, in any medium from knitting or quilts to carvings or scrapbooks to things you've rebuilt or repaired. We'd like to share the hidden creativity of our church family.
3. The Northwest Conference Annual Meeting will be held at the end of this week on the 24th and 25th.
4. A Men's Bible Study meets at the church on Saturday mornings at 7:30 a.m. Breakfast is included.

The quartet -- Chuck & Darlene, Ken and Dale -- led us in worship this morning. Chuck began by sharing the story of the healing of the blind man from John 9 followed by the song "Somebody Touched Me."

Our Scripture readings were both from the New Testament.
Acts 4:32-35
John 20:19-31

After a time of prayer the message followed.

Because We’ve Been Forgiven

Pastor Brad began by opening his heart saying, “I don’t have a strategy. I offer only the cross… which is empty.”

The message was based on a story from Matthew 18, which Brad reconfigures into a modern setting. It’s a story about a president/CEO of a software company. It’s the annual meeting and it has been learned that one of the executives had been embezzling. It wasn’t just a little amount, it was something on the order of “bazillions” (one of Brad’s favorite words.)

A witty aside here. Brad commented on how the Roman Flat Tax worked. “Pay your taxes or we’ll flatten you.”

So, this guy owes an enormous amount of money and gets the memo: the head man wants to see him. The picture Brad paints is of a crooked embezzler being called to account. He has no more opportunities to bluff, to deceive, to cover his tracks. The cards are on the table and he’s finished.

In Roman times, not only did the embezzler have to pay, but his family as well, and the offspring of his family, unto perpetuity.

In response the embezzler goes for a long shot. He grovels, throwing himself at the mercy of the CEO/president in who’s hand the power to absolve resides.

Unexpectedly, the old man gets choked up, even feels compassion, and surprises everyone by rescinding the sentence. The debt is forgiven.

Brad pointed out at this point that the forgiveness was costly to the CEO/owner of the company. He forgives, and accepts his loss. A celebration ensues because the embezzler has gone from death to life.

The application is self-evident. God forgives us when we lay our sins at His feet, and celebrates, because we have moved from death (which we deserve) to life.

In the words of the old negro spiritual, “It’s a-me, it’s a-me, it’s a-me Oh Lord, standing in the need of prayer.”

The parable is clearly a metaphor. God is this owner/CEO, and we ourselves, like the embezzler, have a moral guilt that is exceedingly great. Jesus paid our debt, on the cross. As Brad puts it, God forgives recklessly, extravagantly, without limits. His mercy is beyond comprehension.

The second part of this story is intriguing. Now that the embezzler is off the hook how will he behave? In no time he comes across another man who owes him money. It’s a small debt, and the man doesn’t have the money at this moment. The forgiven embezzler is so incensed that he has the man thrown in jail.

Interestingly, this latter debtor implores the forgiven embezzler with the very same words that the embezzler threw at the feet of the CEO. But in this second instance there is no mercy.

Authentic forgiveness is never cheap. We want the other person to pay, to feel the hurt we’ve felt. What we don’t realize is that non-forgiveness is also costly.

Pastor Brad reminded us that forgiveness does not always result in reconciliation. But it does mean letting go of your right to hurt them back.

There are consequences for not forgiving. Unforgiveness is a burden as is the bitterness it leads to. Don’t allow unforgiveness to choke all the joy out of your heart.

There is also a third part to this story. The embezzler who had been forgiven was ultimately returned to the board room. The CEO says, “You didn’t get it at all. I was willing to take the loss, and would still be, but you don’t want to take the offer.”

Instead the man is now sentenced to pay.

Jesus finished this story with these very sobering words. “And this is how My heavenly father will treat every one of you, unless you forgive your brother from the heart.”

Now, you must choose… no more explaining. Choose to forgive. Put that burden down, ‘cause otherwise it will kill you. Let it go. Choose life.

End of story. This is the gospel.

Ash Wednesday Service 2009

"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God..." ~ Romans 3:23

Tonight was a special evening on a number of levels. We shared a meal in advance, and enjoyed one another’s company over soup and sandwiches. This kind of fellowship is good for strengthening ties to our church family.

On another level, the Ash Wednesday service inaugurates Lent, a period of time leading to the Cross and resurrection, the centerpiece of Christian faith.

Pastor Brad opened by noting that the ashes used on Ash Wednesday are traditionally created by burning the dried palms from the previous year’s Palm Sunday. In this manner a certain continuity is created as we simultaneously prepare for Easter and remember it.

It was pointed out that the ashes on Ash Wednesday point back to the Old Testament notion of sackcloth and ashes, a sign of repentance and purification. In Matthew 11:21 associates sackcloth and ashes with remorse. Other verses referencing ashes include Numbers 19:9 & 17, and Hebrews 9:13.

There is a difference between penitence and repentance, Brad said. Repentance is identified with the will or volition, and indicates a turning around, a change of direction. Penitence is more a matter of the heart.

Ashes are also a reminder that we came from ashes and to ashes we will return. The service offers an opportunity for us to recognize our brokenness, and once again remember the wonders of His grace.

After the customary introit, worship and responsive readings, Pastor Brad shared a message.

That Pesky Word

Sin, he noted, is a word that is not used much anymore. The dictionary defines sin as a “transgression of divine law.” It is a willful wrong.

Nowadays we use different language. We say things like, “I made a mistake,” or “I goofed.” Sometimes we say “oops” as if it was just a stupid little mess-up or an error of judgment or “I didn’t know an better, shucks.”

We don’t like the word sin because it says something fundamental about what we are. If everything is just a mistake, then it’s not sin. And if there is no sin, then there’s no need for a savior. The solution for a mistake is to try harder next time, or study more and pay attention more, get more education, whatever. But if I am a sinner, I need a Savior.

Sin is indicative of intentionality. It was not just a goof up. It reflects something deeper going on.

If everything is just a mistake, then there can be no guilt.

When Jesus enters the situation, he not only says that being “good enough” to please God is a challenge, he raises the bar so high it is impossible. No one can be “good enough.” Yet, He says, “I love you.”

In other words, it is worse than you thought because you’re worse than you thought, and simultaneously God loves you more than you can imagine.

Jesus said, “I have come not to abolish the Law but to fulfill it.”

The essence of Matthew 5 vs 21 and following is that (a) you’re a sinner, and (b) God loves sinners.

Until you embrace the fact that you’re a sinner, you’ll never embrace the Savior. People who see themselves as goof ups don’t need a Savior.

Brad then re-told the story of the Prodigal Son as found in Luke 15. After the son takes his portion of the inheritance and squander it, he reaches such a low point in his life that it would be better to be a servant for his father than what he is doing now. He returns home, saying, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.”

The father’s response is remarkable. “Bring the best robe… “ and he puts a ring on the son’s finger… sandals on his feet, saying, “This son of mine was dead…”

The sooner we embrace the fact that we are sinners, the sooner we experience grace.

In Romans 3:23, Paul essentially says, “You owed so much there is no way you could repay it, so I had someone else pay the price.”

It’s not about figuring it all out and getting it right someday. The ashes are a symbol that say, “I can’t do it on my own.”

With this we came to the table at the front of the sanctuary in a ceremony named simply the imposition of ashes.

It was a very special service, and time of remembering the grace and mercy of God in Jesus.

You’ve Got Class

It was a beautiful morning again this weekend. Sunshine and the first hints of summer bathed the Northland.

After a welcome, Brook announced that Vacation Bible School will begin a week from tomorrow. Volunteers are always welcome. Be sure everyone with kids knows about it. The theme this year is Cosmic City.

Darlene opened the worship service with a moving rendition of Be Thou My Vision., and then the quartet led us in singing.

Today’s Scripture reading was from Genesis 12:1-9 and Romans 4:13-25.

You’ve Got Class

Pastor Brad Shannon brought to the service one of his high school yearbooks as an intro to his theme. It was from his freshman year in the 1980’s. He drew attention to the manner in which the school is not only divided by classes (Freshman, Sophomore, etc.) but also a range of sub-groups: athletes, drama, band, loners, stoners, in-crown, out-crowd, etc.

All through life people get designated by classes, and to our shame each of us tends to maintain secret lists in our minds of who is the in-crowd and out-crowd. Pastor Brad used this lead in to underscore the opening verse of today’s passage from James 2: “Don’t show favoritism.”

Jesus spent His whole life in the wrong crowd. God could have been born in a king’s palace, but instead he was born in a manger. Born to working class parents, in an insignificant village, He knew what life was like for people on the margins.

The problem with favoritism is that it evaluates people based on their outward appearance. God looks on the heart.

James wrote about this issue two thousand years ago, and it is still an issue today. We still, unfortunately, judge by externals, whether by appearance, or education level or social status. It goes both ways. We may look down on blue collar or we may pass judgments against white collar. We each have our inner lists of desirables and undesirables. But this list making is inconsistent with Scripture.

2Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. 3If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here's a good seat for you," but say to the poor man, "You stand there" or "Sit on the floor by my feet," 4have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?

How does God feel about the neglected, the poor, the people on the margins?

5Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?

Many who first heard these words were slaves, or impoverished. And the words spoke volumes. They were revolutionary words. They said that inside the church things were different from the way things worked in the world. God’s values are radically different from the world’s values.

Taking a step further, James notes that the rich often obtained their wealth at the expense of the poor.

6But you have insulted the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court?

Today, sadly, it remains no different. Predatory lending with obscene interest rates can be devastating to the needy. There are many ways in which the poor are exploited. James goes on by citing the Royal Law.

8If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing right. 9But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. 10For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. 11For he who said, "Do not commit adultery," also said, "Do not murder." If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.

Pastor Brad stated that we often dismiss favoritism as a rather small sin compared to the big sins like adultery and murder. But James takes a different view. And the pastor opened his heart to us by stating how these words from James cut him this week. And reiterating last week’s message he implored, “We cannot just be hearers of the word. We must do it.”

Equality is not the goal, but loving all wherever they are at, because in God’s eyes they are equally valued.

Mercy is love in action. It is not just words. Favoritism looks at the outward appearance. Mercy looks on the heart. Favoritism says, “How can you help me?” Mercy says, “How can I help you?”
Most importantly, how we treat others reveals how we feel about God. Who is in your life who could use your mercy?

And in closing we returned to the beginning: 1My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism.

A Healthy Fear

Today is the Fourth Sunday in Lent. Pastor Brad introduced today's service by reminding us that Lent is a time for taking a good, hard look at the cross and what it cost Jesus to bring us back to God.

After a time of worship, today's Scripture readings were from Psalm 23 and Ephesians 5:8-14.

The sermon this morning was taken from ideas conveyed by Psalm 103. After reading the psalm, Pastor Brad shared with us details about the CN Tower in Toronto. The 1815 foot structure is the world's tallest building. To get to the top visitors ride a glass elevator that is on the external part of the building so they can see the city as it drops below them. Upon arriving at the top, visitors are greeted by a glass floor so that you feel a quick rush, sweaty palms and a moment of fear, all the while utterly safe.

By way of contrast, consider the Grand Canyon. A six thousand foot drop at some points, with no glass floors, there is real danger here. Park officials acknowledge that four or five people die every year from falling over the edge. There really are good reasons to have fear when standing near the edge.

What is God like? A lot of people say he is more like the CN Tower than the Grand Canyon. He is impressive, but not really dangerous. "Then I made the mistake of reading my Bible," Pastor Brad said.

Right from the beginning we see fear of God in the story of Adam. In Exodus, the people of Israel were well terrified of God when He appeared on the mountain. Job, too, declared, "I am terrified of His presence." In Isaiah 6, the prophet records his vision of the high and holy one, and writes, "Woe is me, I am undone."

Some say God is good, therefore he would not want us to feel afraid of Him like that. Or they might note that the New Testament shows a different face of God in Jesus. Jesus, they notes, reveals that God is full of Grace.

But consider these words from Jesus: "I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him." ~ Luke 12:4-5

Many more examples can be cited. The fear of God is not just a matter of reverence and awe.

A. W. Tozer noted that in the old days people of faith served God with fear, terror and dismay, sinfulness and guilt. The self assurance of modern Christians is "evidence of a deep blindness of heart."

At the Grand Canyon, people who fool around near the edge can literally die. God, too, is dangerous.

Why does the Bible say that the fear of God is good?

Exodus 20:20 offers an answer to this question. "Moses said to the people, 'Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning.'"

When you fear authority, your better self comes out. The fear of God is a healthy, restraining force for good. People who fear God do what is right.

Of course all these passages lead to another question. If God is so fear inspiring, why would I want to get close to Him?

This question brings us back to the text, Psalm 103.

1 Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-
3 who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
6 The LORD works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed.
7 He made known his ways to Moses, his deeds to the people of Israel:
8 The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.
9 He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever;
10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him;
12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him...

When you come to God humbly, He showers you with benefits.

Have you ever taken the Jumbotron Test? The Jumbotron at the Target Center in Minneapolis is a giant live action screen. Now imagine the Target Center is filled with people and across the screen is playing all of your thoughts, words and deeds of the past week. How long before that Jumbotron has displayed something you are ashamed of?

This isn't an imaginary exercise. God sees your Jumbotron. He knows your whole life. But the Pslamist understands that God is like a waterfall of mercy. His mercy cascades over us.

Those things in your soul that you wish weren't there, that are holding you back... give them up to God. Let His mercy roll over you like a waterfall and you, too, will declare, "Bless the Lord, oh my soul."

The service ended with a very special time of communion.

He Really Does Love Us And We Really Can Love Others

The Third Sunday in Lent

This morning Pastor Brad Shannon opened by declaring, “No matter what road you’re traveling, no matter what you’ve carried in here today, Jesus loves you indiscriminately.” His sermon theme today would be, “He Really Does Love Us and We Really Can Love Others.”

After Darlene's introit we enjoyed music by the trio, which included a reading of Philippians 3:7-11 by Chuck Vanderscheuren. We all felt blessed when they sang a heartfelt rendition of On the Jericho Road.

Today’s scripture reading was from John 4:5-42, the story of Jesus meeting the Samaritan woman at the well.

He Really Does Love Us & We Really Can Love Others

Pastor Brad shared how in his reading of the Gospels he has been amazed by Jesus’ emotional strength. In addition, Jesus showed great physical strength as well, walking all day, often teaching late into the night, pouring Himself out with seeming tirelessness.

Drawing from the seventh chapter of Luke, today’s message unveiled three incidents in which Jesus is revealed as not only strong, but also empathic. Luke 7 begins after Jesus had shared His great sermon on the mount. He was undoubtedly tired, yet when he was approached by a Roman centurion, Jesus gave his full attention. This Roman soldier had not come on his own behalf, but to make a request on behalf of an acquaintance’s servant.

Despite the low station in life of this servant, for Jesus there were no nobodies. Jesus’ love was universal and unconditional, whether it be for a prime minister or prodigal son. To Jesus, every man, woman or child matters. And Jesus healed this servant boy.

After leaving the Centurion, Jesus got held up by a funeral procession. All too often, our focus is inward, on our own needs. But Jesus, by being sensitive to the situation in front of him, recognized that this woman who had lost her husband previously was now grieving at the loss of her only son. Her despair at losing his son now left her all alone in the world, and Jesus’ heart went out to her.

Jesus steps forward and instructs the dead youth to rise, and he sat up. They were all filled with awe and praised God. When Jesus’ sensitivity was stirred, his power was unleashed.

From here the Lord went to dinner at a Pharisees house, a gathering of A-list persons in the community. An inappropriate woman shows up and begins weeping on Jesus’ feet. She then begins to pour perfume on him, anointing him with expensive oil.
The host is thinking to himself, “If Jesus were really a prophet, he’d know what kind of person this was and would not allow it.”

But this was a woman who had made great mistakes in her life, and had great regrets. In coming to Jesus, she recognized that he had massive amounts of forgiveness for this kind of person, and her response was reciprocal, for one who has been forgiven much loves much. (vs. 47)

Who should be the greatest lover? The one who has been forgiven the most. You have been renewed in Christ and should become increasingly indiscriminate lovers.

Why are Christians often seen as the most judgmental? We ought to be recognized as the most loving. I want to be one who spills love over shoeshine kids and all who are need.

As the dinner party ends, the guests are abuzz with the question, “Who is this man?” It is a question people have been asking for 2000 years, and it is a most important question. Who is this man in your life? Have you decided who Jesus is in your life?

If you’ve been forgiven much, then love much.

This is the Gospel of the Lord.

Amazing Grace

Today was a special service with new faces leading. Pastor Shannon, Brooke and Darlene had gone to Chicago for a meeting about worship. With classic hymns and two heartfelt testimonies, many people were touched this Sunday morning at New Life Covenant.

Today’s Scripture readings were from Psalm 27:1, 4-9 and I Corinthians 1:10-18

Cheryl Borndal’s Testimony
At age 12, Cheryl received the Lord as her savior during a retreat. She was underneath a blanket with others sharing secrets. Her secret was that she was not a Christian. The Lord came to her at that time and she has been abundantly grateful for that.

Two years later her father died, which grieved her because she knew he had not been a Christian and she would not see him again. The pastor comforted her afterwards and said that he had indeed accepted Christ and there would be a happy re-union one day.

Her mom re-married and the newly blended family had eight children, including four teens. It was a great privilege to grow up in this family where Christ was so evident, working in their home. Her parents modeled a life of faith and they knew that it was God’s blessing that sustained them. “It’s not us, it’s God,” he mom would say.

She said her mom was also a woman of prayer, stating more than once that prayer was the source of her strength.

Cheryl said, “God works through our lives. I’ve learned to agree with whatever He says.”

Her favorite verse is Philippians 4:13. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Brady Stroschein’s Testimony
“I feel odd being here,” said Brady as he stood at the front of the church, tall and open-hearted. “I ain’t the churchy kinda fellow.”

Brady shared how as a child he was made to go to church and to sit quietly in the pew, hand folded, no clapping. His legacy included being the first child to fail confirmation in the Lutheran church where he grew up.

The life he lived was not a pretty one. “I was the guy you didn’t want your son playing with or your daughter looking at. I was the guy who ran into your car while drunk and left the scene of the crime.”

But there came a day when his life changed and he was relieved from his bondage. “We all know these people exist,” Brady said, “but I’m here to say there is hope for them.”

He was given the opportunity to change, to sober up. And today he hasn’t had a drink or drug in nine years. “I haven’t hit anyone in seven years,” he said and the two times he’s been in jail he was released right away because it was clear he was not a menace to society.

He’s grateful to God because of his new life, which included the opportunity to start a business. He used to be a bad guy, but now has a wonderful, loving wife and three kids. “Things can turn around 180 degrees in a life and you can be given a chance to help others. I’m really one of the lucky ones.”

A living example of God’s amazing grace, Brady closed by stating, “Don’t give up on the rotten guy down the road.”

Our Part To Play

For starters, after initial greetings, we were reminded of next week's Chili-Dog Fundraiser for Adventure Club. Sunday January 20, there will be a Chili-dog fund raiser featuring Chef Don Walters. Don Walters’ career has included years of service on large boats such as the St. Clair and the Roger M. Kyes of the American Steamship Co. fleet. A native Duluthian, Walters earned the nickname “Chili Don” during his time on the Great Lakes the 1980’s.

The Adventure Club is a weekly program for youth ages 4th to 6th grade who meet Wednesday evenings from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. The Adventure Club, an outreach of New Life Covenant, includes singing, drama, Bible lessons, small groups, games, crafts, dinner and fun. It is hoped that we can raise $1,000 next week for this vital ministry of the church.

During his Children's Challenge, Pastor Brad talked about maps and proceeded to unfold his second favorite, the Duluth-area snowmobile trail map. His favorite map, of course, is the Bible, which provides a map for our lives as we follow Jesus where He leads.

Today's Scripture readings:
Isaiah 42:1-9
Acts 10:34-43

The title of today's sermon: "Our Part To Play"

Pastor Shannon began with the uncomfortable truth that Jesus has a right to shock us. After all, He is God. When was the last time you were offended by something Jesus said?

As humans we all experience a variety of basic emotions from joy and anger to anxiety or serenity. When you think of the Old Testament prophets, what emotion or quality comes to mind for you? "Don't the prophets strike you as cranky people," he said.

Pastor Shannon cited several passages in which the prophets used angry language and shock tactics to get people's attention.

When we have a choice we generally prefer happy books. But there is a reason for these books of the prophets. We can occasionally read the prophets and wonder, "What's the big deal?"

Today there is much bad in the world. We see cheating in business, AIDS in Africa and substandard housing here in our own community. In their own time, the prophets saw the world as God sees, and their hearts were crushed by the injustice they saw. Their hearts had been trained to feel what God feels, and they felt God's pain.

In the parable of the sheep and the goats, Jesus gives us an insight as to how we're to view the needs around us.

34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
37"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' (Matt 25:34-40 NIV)

In effect, when people remain neglected, unclothed, imprisoned with no visitors, hungry and unfed, it is Jesus who suffers.

The prophets spoke for God, on behalf of God. The injustice they saw was real. But how are we to respond when God calls us to act?

The prophet Micah wrote:
6 With what shall I come before the LORD
and bow down before the exalted God?
Shall I come before him with burnt offerings,
with calves a year old?
7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams,
with ten thousand rivers of oil?
Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression,
the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
8 He has showed you, O man, what is good.
And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.

We all know and can tell stories of injustice when it happens to us. We hate it when we get treated unfairly. Many Hollywood movies derive their entire storyline from an injustice with revenge as a motivation.

Often, however, we tend to overlook the injustice around us. In truth, we live in a very broken world, much of it that is uncomfortable to look at and difficult to deal with. But Micah gives us a response that is simple yet profound. "He has showed you, O man, what is good.... To do justice..." Whether in our jobs, our neighborhoods or homes, we need to ask God to help us treat others fairly. "and to love mercy..." Other translations state "to love kindness." The word hessed means a steadfast love. It is the visible expression of grace.

We have so much and there are so many who have so little. Pastor Shannon called upon us to not neglect our part in God's plan.

The third portion in Micah's admonition is to "walk humbly with your God."

In reality, the prophets' primary motivation for writing sprang not from anger, but from a depth of love for God's people. As C.S. Lewis wrote, "Anger is the fluid love bleeds when you cut it."

In the end, the eyes of all will be opened, Micah writes. And with the prophet we can exclaim,

18 Who is a God like you,
who pardons sin and forgives the transgression
of the remnant of his inheritance?
You do not stay angry forever
but delight to show mercy.
19 You will again have compassion on us;
you will tread our sins underfoot
and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea. (Micah 7:18,19)

So, what does the Lord require of you? To do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with your God.

But one question remains: Will you and I really do it? It's a really big deal.

There's Just Something About That Name

Pastor Brad Shannon opened the service with the reminder that Christmas is a season, not just a day.

The New Life Trio blessed us with their music and singing this morning, and then we shared in the baptism of Gavin Edward Gimpel.

Today’s Scripture readings:
Isaiah 63:7-9
Hebrews 2:10-18

Pastor Brad's sermon began with a re-cap of the Christmas Eve service beginning with that wonderful proclamation, "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 9:6

Titled, “Shhh... God Is Speaking,” Pastor Brad reminded us of the reality that God still speaks to us today and can guide us. And that God gives us clues when it is important. The most significant and vivid manner in which God speaks to us is through His son.

1In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. 3The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. ~ Hebrews 1:1-3

Christmas Eve Pastor Brad told a parable by Kierkegaard that revealed two important truths: (1) That God still speaks, and (2) He speaks authoritatively and definitively through Jesus.

This was the supreme revelation, that God set aside His glory for peasants like us. Pastor Shannon implored, “Will you open up your life to let Him speak to you?”

He told a story about a Chicago Cubs fan named Johnny who as a twelve year old idolized the Cubs of the 60’s, a team with many stars including Ernie Banks and Ron Santos, among others. They had a star catcher named Randy Hundley who was also a Christian, and on one occasion was visiting the house across the street. The family across the street knew he was a Cubs fan, and called to say that Randy Hundley would like to come over and meet him. His mother said he was busy and should come play with Johnny “some other time.” Of course when Johnny got home he became depressed upon hearing the news that one of his idols had been so near.

As it turned out, after his speaking engagement, the All-Star catcher stopped by the house and did ultimately meet his young fan. He even pulled out a baseball, signed it and gave it to Johnny, securing his admiration forever.

For Johnny, the glory of Randy Hundley was not his rifle arm or his home run power, but the fact that someone as important as him came to his house, “just for me.”

So it is that the Son of God has come to us. As the Scripture exclaims, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.” ~ Rev. 3:20

This is the glory of God.

Sadly, sometimes he knocks for years. We receive promptings, but never respond. Today, I’m asking you to open your door, the door to your heart, to Jesus.

The passage from Isaiah 9:6 cites four names. The first of these is Wonderful Counsellor. Some people have problems or challenging decisions they are wrestling with. Sometimes as wrong decision can mess up your life. In times like these we need God’s wisdom, we need a wonderful counselor.

The second, He is called The Mighty God. When we face things that are too big for us, we need a powerful God, a mighty God. Pastor Brad shared stories of tough situations in which God’s power was needed. To each of us He says, “Let me be a mighty God for you.”

The third name: Everlasting Father. “I will be your Father, you will be my children,” the Scripture says.

The pastor told us a story about a frightened boy who at night felt all alone. When overcome by his fear and aloneness he would go to his father’s bedroom, needing to be with his father. Thus comforted, he could sleep and let go of his fear. “God wants to be for you your Everlasting Father.”

The fourth name, Prince of Peace, speaks on many levels. Individually, Jesus became the way for us to have peace with God. He died on a cross that we can be reconciled.

“Jesus is knocking. Some of you here this morning need to open the door of your hearts. For some of you Jesus is knocking right now.”

Shhhhh... God Is Speaking

Notes from our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

"The invisible, intangible God has made himself visible and tangible in Christ." ~ Carlo Carreto

We were ushered in to Christmas Carols by the Felix Folks. The service began with a moving rendition of O Holy Night by Dana Stroschein. Scripture readings from Isaiah 9:2-7 and Luke 2:1-20 set the tone. After carols, prayers and special music, Pastor Brad opened his heart to share a special message: Shhh.... God is Speaking

Sometimes when people speak they give little clues that indicate this is important. Examples include the teacher who states, "This will be on the final." Or while you are watching television, the beeping sound with scrolling words, "We interrupt this program..."

Pastor Brad has been talking lately about the kingdom of God. God wants to speak to the world about what matters most. And God has spoken to the world through the Christ. As Scripture says, God speaks to us through His son. (Hebrews 1:2) He is the exact imprint of God's very being.

"This is what I am like," God is saying. "If you want to know my heart, my character, my nature... look at Jesus." What God thinks and feels is revealed in Jesus. If you want to know the heart of God, the place to begin is with the life of Jesus.

And here's what you'll find: not just a wise man (though He is), not just a wonderful person (though He is). God became a real human being.

He is a big God, but He speaks in a quiet voice, not a big voice.

Why would God come as a baby instead of with a big splash? Kierkegaard told a story about a king who loved a poor woman who lived in a hovel. He wanted badly to show his love for her, but feared he would overwhelm her if he came in his regal splendor. He traded his palace for a hovel and his robes for rags in order to approach her without frightening her off. The story serves as a metaphor for how God reaches out to us in Jesus as detailed in this beautiful passage from Philippians 2:5-11

5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: 6Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross!
9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

God set aside His glory for ragged sin-filled peasants like you and me.
God in Jesus is speaking to the world.


The author of this blog had been told that the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at New Life Covenant was a very special service. And indeed it was. Merry Christmas and blessings to all.

Remembering the Saints

On a beautiful sunny day in rural Northern Minnesota, Pastor Brad Shannon began the service by sharing a moving story about a man who lived a tragic life... alcoholic, philandering, and ultimately abandoning his wife and children, never to return. This man's oldest son joined the marines after years of being "the man of the house" to two much younger siblings. While in the marines, a church reached out to him, inviting him in to an evangelistic service. Because of the faithful witness of this church, a church that embraced the lost, Pastor Brad and his brothers learned the love of their Savior, Jesus. The marine, whose father had abandoned his home, was Brad's father.

Today was Communion Sunday, and today's message was intended to prepare our hearts for the Lord's Table.

The Scripture Readings can be found in Psalm 119:137-144 and II Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12.

Pastor Brad began his message by saying, "There are a couple truths I would like to put before you." Everyone of us knows that we have been chosen and loved from before the foundation of the world. What a remarkable truth that we are here with a good conscience only because of the forgiveness of Jesus and His merciful work on the cross. What's more, each of us is a legacy of someone else's faithful response to God.

Our faithfulness creates a ripple effect that expands throughout the world.

Jesus said, "You didn't choose me, I chose you, to bear fruit that will last.

"Think about those whose faithfulness resulted in your coming to God or bringing you to where you are," Pastor Brad said. Then, he asked us to share aloud, identifying those who have been an influence or significant in our coming to know the mercy of God. Several shared names of people who influenced them, and many in the congregation remembered others who have touched their lives in powerful or important ways.

The only thing that matters is what we do today. Those who can be trusted with little will be trusted with much. Citing the great passage in Hebrews 12, Brad shared an insight regarding that "great cloud of witnesses." We carry forward what they began.

In the passage, it is noteworthy that discipline is not a punishment. Discipline is what produces a harvest of righteousness.

What a privilege, then, to be partners with God to serve the world and make it a better place.

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out before us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." ~ Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV)

Oswald Chambers once said we will never see the full impact of our faithfulness on this side of eternity, for if we could see the impact, we couldn't stand the glory.

Conscience and Calvary

A bad conscience is like a bad tooth, except that a bad tooth can be removed. Relief for the bad conscience requires a pilgrimmage to Calvary. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
~ I John 1:9