Check out Lessons From the Recession: 10 Things We Learned in 2010

Click here: Lessons From the Recession: 10 Things We Learned in 2010

 

Pastor Kenneth Q. James
Psalm 119:33-34
"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

Sunday's sermon - "Next steps"

Last Sunday's sermon was from Luke 2:7, titled, "No Room." Let's consider what are the "next steps" God will have us take in response to the Word we heard.

 

1. Parker J. Palmer describes "functional atheism" as "the unconscious, unexamined conviction that if anything decent is going to happen here, we are the ones who must make it happen – a conviction held even by people who talk a good game about God."  What are some indications in your life that you might be a "functional atheist?" In other words, in what areas of your life are you acting as though you don't need God because you can handle things yourself?

2. What would you do if, as the poem says, "Jesus came to your house?" Is there room for him?

3. Luke 2:7 should make us ask, who or what has such priority in our lives that when Jesus comes there is no room for him to enter?

4. Luke 2:7 should make us ask, who or what has taken up so much room that there is no room to allow Jesus to enter?

5. Luke 2:7 should make us ask, if we know that Jesus will give us love, joy, peace, hope, etc., why would we turn him away?

6. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon or reading this passage? How is God speaking to you now?

 

Pastor Kenneth Q. James
Psalm 119:33-34
"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

A thought for the day (12.29.10)

"You have to walk in the light of the vision that has been given to you and not compare yourself with others or judge them." Oswald Chambers.

 

Pastor Kenneth Q. James
Psalm 119:33-34
"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

Sunday's sermon - Next steps

Greetings, all,

 

Last Sunday's sermon (December 19)was from Luke 1:67-69. Our theme for Advent has been "Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room" and our focus for this sermon was "Salvation."

 

Let's consider what are the "next steps" God would have us take in response to His Word.

 

1. What comes to your mind when you think of the words of the Christmas carol, "God and sinners reconciled?"

 

2. There is NOTHING wrong with being "silent" in worship (quiet, reflective, pensive); but there may be a problem with being "mute" - unable to speak of God's goodness. Can you testify of how good God has been in your life?

 

3. Salvation can be defined as "deliverance from trouble, release from difficulty or freedom from suffering." Where has God's actions in this way been evident in your life?

 

4. Salvation is also "the creation of conditions and an environment where God's people can worship without fear, an atmosphere of undisturbed, unhindered worship." Do you feel free to worship?

 

5. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon or reading this passage? How is God speaking to you now.

 

Have a blessed Christmas, and remember that "Jesus is the reason for the season."

 

Pastor Kenneth Q. James
Psalm 119:33-34
"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

Next Steps

Greetings, all,

Last Sunday's sermon (December 12) was from Luke 1:46-48. Our theme for Advent is "Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room" and the focus was on "Adoration."

 

Let's consider what are the "next steps" God would have us take in response to His Word.

 

1. Some people commented to me (Pastor James) that they thought the man who made negative comments about the church and Methodists really got to me. Does it bother you when people speak ill of your church?

 

2. Do you think the "Holy Ghost has his way" at Memorial? Does the "Holy Ghost have his way" in your life?

 

3. How does your "spirit" (God-consciousness), "soul" (self-consciousness) and "body" (world-consciousness) respond to the call for adoration?

 

4. Where are you aware that God has "looked with favor on the low estate of his servant" (you)? In other words, are you aware that God is bigger than your circumstances?

 

5. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon or reading this passage? How is God speaking to you now?

 

Pastor Kenneth Q. James
Psalm 119:33-34
"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

A Thought for the Day

When I read this, it "wrote on me," so I wanted to share.

 

"Repentance always brings a (person) to this point: I have sinned. The surest sign that God is at work is when a (person) says that and means it...The bedrock of Christianity is repentance. Strictly speaking, a (person) cannot repent when he (she) chooses; repentance is a gift of God. The old Puritan used to pray for 'the gift of tears.' If ever you cease to know the virtue of repentance, you are in darkness. Examine yourself and see if you have forgotten how to be sorry." Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest.

 

Pastor Kenneth Q. James
Psalm 119:33-34
"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

Check out People Who Attend Church Regularly Are Happier - AOL Health

Click here: People Who Attend Church Regularly Are Happier - AOL Health

 

 

 

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34
Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Sunday's sermon - "Next steps"

Last Sunday's sermon (December 5) was from Luke 1:39-45. Our theme for Advent is "Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room" and the focus was on "Celebration."

 

Let's consider what are the "next steps" God would have us take in response to His Word.

 

1. What did you do when in your life you "dropped the ball?" Did you get depressed? Did you blame others? Did you make excuses? Did you quit or give up?

2. When - and for what reason - do you celebrate?

3. Have you decided that you are going to be happy? What will it take for you to reinforce that decision?

4. Are you hanging around the right people to be able to celebrate? If you discover that there are people who are sapping your joy, what are you going to do about it?

5. Praise God that today, no matter how many times you "dropped the ball," you didn't get cut from the team, and you will get another chance!

6. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon or reading this passage? How is God speaking to you now?

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

A Thought for the Day

"Go where you are celebrated, not where you are tolerated."

 

This is one of my favorite saying and personal mantras.

 

Perhaps you don't realize it, but there are enough people who appreciate that you for who you are - are a gift to the body of Christ, a blessing to their lives, a benefit to their existence - that you do NOT have to spend one minute of this day seeking approval, commendation, or acceptance from anyone.

 

Of course, we all have things we need to work on in order to accomplish God's grand design for our lives. However, if there are people in your life who don't like you, accept you or want you around while you are in the process of getting to that place, why are you stressing about it? If you take inventory/stock of yourself and know that you are doing what God wants you to do and you are growing to be the kind of person you most want to be, anyone who doesn't accept that is probably stopping you from getting to your purpose. It may be time to thank God for the time you spent with that person and whatever contribution you made to them or they made to you, and move on.

 

You deserve to celebrate yourself. And you deserve to be celebrated.

 

So celebrate!

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Bible study questions

Good evening, all.

 

As you know, we are starting our new Bible study series "Women in the Bible" tomorrow. In advance of our first lesson, I wanted to get to you the questions we will discuss so you can be prepared. I hope you will join us.

 

The passage is Genesis 19:1-26.

 

1. If you are familiar with the Bible, you are likely familiar with the name of Lot, and by consequence, Lot's wife. What do we know of this family?

2. Where did Lot's family live? How did where they live impact their lives (positively or negatively)?

3. What is the sin of Sodom?

4. Why is God concerned to save Lot and his family?

5. Why was Lot and his family reluctant to leave when the angel instructed them (Genesis 19:12-22)?

6. What happened to Lot's wife when she turned back?

7. What do you believe is the moral of this story?

 

And don't forget that tomorrow for both noon and evening sessions we will convene our Bible study at Mood Maker's Bookstore. Thanks to Curtis and Marie Rivers for hosting us!

 

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Too Busy for a Friend?

I received this today from Bro. Joel Carter, and I hope it will give you something to think about.

Too Busy for a Friend?

One day a teacher asked her students to list the names of the other students in the room
on two sheets of paper, leaving a space between each name.

Then she told them to think of the nicest thing they could say about each of their classmates and write it down.

It took the remainder of the class period to finish their assignment, and as the students left the room, each one handed in the papers.

That Saturday, the teacher wrote down the name of each student on a separate sheet of paper, and listed what everyone else had said about that individual.

On Monday she gave each student his or her list. Before long, the entire class was smiling. 'Really?' she heard whispered. 'I never knew that I meant anything to anyone!' and, 'I didn't know others liked me so much,' were most of the comments.

No one ever mentioned those papers in class again. She never knew if they discussed them after class or with their parents, but it didn't matter. The exercise had accomplished its purpose. The students were happy with themselves and one another. That group of students moved on.

Several years later, one of the students was killed in Viet Nam and his teacher attended the funeral of that special student. She had never seen a serviceman in a military coffin
before. He looked so handsome, so mature.

The church was packed with his friends. One by one those who loved him took a last walk by the coffin. The teacher was the last one to bless the coffin.

As she stood there, one of the soldiers who acted as pallbearer came up to her. 'Were you Mark's math teacher?' he asked. She nodded: 'yes.' Then he said: 'Mark talked about you a lot.'

After the funeral, most of Mark's former classmates went together to a luncheon.
Mark's mother and father were there, obviously waiting to speak with his teacher.

'We want to show you something,' his father said, taking a wallet out of his pocket 'They found this on Mark when he was killed. We thought you might recognize it.'

Opening the billfold, he carefully removed two worn pieces of notebook paper that had obviously been taped, folded and refolded many times. The teacher knew without looking that the papers were the ones on which she had listed all the good things each of Mark's classmates had said about him.

'Thank you so much for doing that,' Mark's mother said. 'As you can see, Mark treasured it.'

All of Mark's former classmates started to gather around. Charlie smiled rather sheepishly and said, 'I still have my list. It's in the top drawer of my desk at home.'

Chuck's wife said, 'Chuck asked me to put his in our wedding album.'

'I have mine too,' Marilyn said. 'It's in my diary'

Then Vicki, another classmate, reached into her pocketbook, took out her wallet and showed her worn and frazzled list to the group. 'I carry this with me at all times,' Vicki said and without batting an eyelash, she continued: 'I think we all saved our lists'

That's when the teacher finally sat down and cried. She cried for Mark and for all
his friends who would never see him again.

The density of people in society is so thick that we forget that life will end one day. And we don't know when that one day will be.

So please, tell the people you love and care for, that they are special and important. Tell them, before it is too late.

And One Way To Accomplish This Is: Forward this message on. If you do not send
it, you will have, once again passed up the wonderful opportunity to do
something nice and beautiful.

If you've received this, it is because someone cares for you and it means there is probably at least someone for whom you care.

If you're 'too busy' to take those few minutes right now to forward this message on, would this be the VERY first time you didn't do that little thing that would make a difference in your relationships?

The more people that you send this to, the better you'll be at reaching out to
those you care about.

Remember, you reap what you sow. What you put into the lives of others comes back into your own. May your day be blessed, and as special as you are.

Check out Billboards to proclaim Jesus' return on May 21, 2011 | freep.com |

I just wanted to share this with you all.

 

In our evening Bible study last Tuesday, someone brought this to our discussion as we ended our study in Daniel, and how Daniel ends his prophecy with two alternate times for "the end" - apparently to prevent just this sort of speculation.

 

Certainly, we are expecting the Lord to return; however, I believe the pastor (Rev. Ed Rowe) who is quoted at the end of this article has the correct point of view.

 

Click here: Billboards to proclaim Jesus' return on May 21, 2011 | freep.com | Detroit Free Press

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Re: Bible study

Hello Memorial Church Family,

There was a three way tie for the New Testament women, meaning we have re-opened the survey for a tie-breaker. 

Please follow the link and vote for ONE woman only.  You will have a choice between Anna, Elizabeth and Salome.

Vote here: https://sites.google.com/site/memorialamezionchurch/home/survey

Thank you and God Bless!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sarah E. Sarchet
Pre-College Outreach Specialist
Pre-College Outreach Consortium
National Technical Institute for the Deaf
52 Lomb Memorial Drive
Rochester, NY 14623

585-469-0461
sesarchet@gmail.com

MS Secondary Deaf Education, NTID '10
BS Biology, RIT '08

Coordinator
Young Adult Missionary Society

사라  사세  - My name in Korean!

Next Steps

Last Sunday's sermon (November 28) was from Luke 1:26-37. The theme for Advent is "Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room." The focus area of this sermon was "Expectation."

 

What are the "next steps" that God will have us take in response to the Word we heard?

 

1. How are you preparing for Advent?

2. How do you respond to the idea that God is "with" you? Does it "perplex" you as it did Mary when Gabriel told her this?

3. Are there any circumstances in your life that you wonder if God will do what God promised?

4. Are you daring enough to let go of the familiar, the status quo, to get out of your rut and take God at his word?   

5. What are you "expecting" God to do?

6. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon or reading this passage? How is God speaking to you now?

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

A Thought for the Day (Thanksgiving Day)

"Count your many blessings, name them ONE by ONE, and it will SURPRISE you what the LORD has done!"

 

Happy Thanksgiving (Psalm 103:2).

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

A thought for the day

"The revolutionary act of hope is, and can only be, the opening up of situations that want to stay closed." Jacques Ellul

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

A thought for the day

"God never gives us discernment in order that we may criticize, but that we may intercede." Oswald Chambers

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Scripture thought for the day

"And we urge you, beloved, to admonish the idlers, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, (and) be patient with all of them." 1 Thessalonians 5:14, NRSV

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessions, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

A Thought for the Day

The church must rediscover corporate prayer.

 

"Unlike the early church, the American church has relegated prayer to the private life. As a result, we miss out on the richness of corporate prayer that fosters intimacy with one another and God. In particular, the leaders of the Jewish people in the Old Testament often prayed public prayers of corporate confession. When all of the people are on their knees together, acknowledging their inadequacy and failings before God, it reinforces that we are all in the same boat and are all in need of God's grace."

(from They Like Jesus, But Not the Church, by Dan Kimball, p.158-159).

 

Please plan to join us for Prayer Meeting tonight, and also for revival tomorrow and Friday at 7 p.m., and our music workshop, "Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual Songs" all featuring Reverend Jimmy Allen Thomas of Chicago, IL, guest evangelist and music workshop leader.

 

Thank you.

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessons, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Sunday's sermon/Next steps

Greetings, Memorial family.

 

Last Sunday's sermon was from Psalm 98, titled, "Something to Sing About." Let us examine what are the "next steps" God will have us take in response to the Word we heard.

 

1. Do you think that worship is difficult? Are we adequately able to take the focus off of ourselves and focus on God?

2. How much of what we do in worship is about trying to please the tastes, preferences, or wishes of the congregation, or any portion of the membership?

3. What do you know God has "saved" (rescued) you from?

4. Do you believe you can stay home and worship alone?

5. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon or reading this passage? How is God speaking to you now?

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessons, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Sunday's sermon: Next Steps

Good afternoon,

 

On Sunday, November 7, the sermon title was "The Power of Prayer." I encourage you to consider now what are the "next steps" God will have us take in response to this message we heard.

 

1. Do you consider yourself a "theologian"? Why or why not?

2. Do you agree with Pastor James' five "convictions" that form his theology about prayer? Why or why not?

a. "The goal of prayer is the ear of God" (Charles H. Spurgeon)

b. Each of us has a greater potential for prayer.

c. Prayer involves spiritual warfare.

d. God answers prayer.

e. I must not get weary or tired of praying.

3. What, if anything, has "held up" or "opposed" your getting an answer to prayer? What did you learn from these times?

4.  In what ways will you need to change your attitude about prayer?

5. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon? How is God speaking to you now?

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessons, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessons, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Sunday's sermon: Next Steps

Last Sunday's sermon did not really have a title; it was based on Daniel chapters 7 and 8 as we talked about bullying, especially as it affects those of the gay community.

 

Thanks again to Sis. Eunice White for the inspiration for this message.

 

Now, what are the "next steps" that God will have us take in response to the Word we heard?

 

1. Have you ever been bullied - either as a child or as an adult? How did that make you feel?

2. Are you a bully? Do you ever feel that you need to put others down to make yourself feel better or stronger?

3. Have you ever thought of yourself as committing an abomination? Read the passages in Leviticus 11:7-8, Leviticus 11:10-11, Leviticus 19:27,Leviticus 19:28, Leviticus 15:19-27] and Deuteronomy 22:5.

4. What do you think God will have you do the next time you see someone being bullied, or you try to bully someone?

5. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon? How is God speaking to you now?

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessons, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Check out YouTube - Israel Houghton- Moving Forward (w/ lyrics)

Click here: YouTube - Israel Houghton- Moving Forward (w/ lyrics)

This is my inspiration for the day! 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessons, Book XII, Chapter 11
 

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Spirit Day

Today, as I learned watching The View, is "Spirit Day" - a day in honor of young people who have been victims of anti-gay bullying. To honor this day, people who care about this are asked to wear purple today.

I missed this one, but I want to ask that everyone who can please wear purple on Sunday at church. I had planned to wear purple anyway on Sunday for another reason - it is the fifth anniversary of my mother's death (October 24, 2005) and I always wear purple on that day in memory of my mother as it was her favorite color. But let's do this to show solidarity for those negatively impacted by bigotry and hate.

Interestingly, I was asked by a member last Saturday to do a sermon on the topic of internet or cyber bullying after the death of several young people over the issue of their sexuality (I love that members help keep the pastor informed). This seems like as good a time as any to preach that sermon, and to have us all show our solidarity against any kind of bigotry as a church family. Please join us. Thank you.

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessons, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Next Steps

Good morning, all,

This morning I realized that I had not shared with you our "Next Steps" thoughts for this week. So here we are; what is God saying to us now about what our "next steps" should be after the word we heard on Sunday?

 

Sunday's sermon (10/10/10) was from Daniel 7:13-14, titled, "Thy Kingdom Come."

 

"May we receive the word we hear each in an honest heart

And keep the precious treasure there, and never with it part."

 

1. In Daniel's vision/dream, he sees "the four winds of heaven churning up the great sea" (v. 2). We learn that images of seas or waters troubled means chaos or disruption. Where in your life are there troubled waters or churning seas?

2. Daniel sees four images, and the fourth of these is described with "eyes like human eyes in this horn, and a mouth speaking arrogantly." In what ways has evil or sin become more bold in our time?

3. Daniel describes watching the scene as "thrones were set in place, and an Ancient One took his throne...A stream of fire issued and flowed out from his presence. A thousand thousands served him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood attending him." This is a depiction of God in control, judging the powers of the world. Where do you see evidence of God's "kingdom, power and glory" in your life and circumstances?

4. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon or reading this passage? How is God speaking to you now? 
 

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessons, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Next steps

Sunday's sermon (10/3) was from Daniel 6:10, titled, "An Unshakeable Faith in a Shaky World." What are the "next steps" God will have us take in response to the Word we heard?

 

"May we receive the word we hear each in an honest heart

And keep the precious treasure there, and never with it part."

 

1. Daniel is described as having an "excellent spirit" in v. 3, meaning he was not only gifted, he was also trustworthy and loyal. Do you think of yourself that way? Do others think of you that way, or are there areas where you need to improve or change the perception of yourself?

2. Daniel continued praying when faced with the prospect of the lion's dead. How strong is your prayer life? What brings you to prayer, or keeps you from praying?

3. Does it bother you that people are looking at you? Consider this and think about how the "conspirators" (v. 4-7) were looking at Daniel.

4. Do you trust that God is looking out for you in the face of the "lions" (i.e., chaos)?

5. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon or reading this passage? How is God speaking to you now?

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessons, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Hymn

I heard this song on Monday at the seminary and I can't stop singing it; it is so beautiful. The lyrics are below.

 

Click here: YouTube - "When In Our Music God Is Glorified" arranged by Harriet Ziegenhals

 

When in our music God is glorified,
and adoration leaves no room for pride,
it is as though the whole creation cried
Alleluia!

How often, making music, we have found
a new dimension in the world of sound,
as worship moved us to a more profound
Alleluia!

So has the Church, in liturgy and song,
in faith and love, through centuries of wrong,
borne witness to the truth in every tongue,
Alleluia!

And did not Jesus sing a psalm that night
when utmost evil strove against the Light?
Then let us sing, for whom he won the fight,
Alleluia!

Let every instrument be tuned for praise!
Let all rejoice who have a voice to raise!
And may God give us faith to sing always
Alleluia! Amen.

 

 

A thought for the day

"O Most High, when I am afraid, I put my trust in you." Psalm 56:2b-3a

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessons, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Next steps

Sunday's sermon (9/26) was from Daniel 5:1-5, 24-28), titled, "Living in the Light of Eternity." What are the "next steps" God will have us take in response to the Word we heard?

 

"May we receive the word we hear each in an honest heart

And keep the precious treasure there, and never with it part."

 

1. What do you think God has to say about the state of our world today? Is anyone listening or does anyone care?

2. Do you find it easy to be judgmental about others faults?

3. Belshazzar is disrespectful of holy things (Daniel 5:2-4). How are we guilty of failing to respect holy things?

4. Daniel's admonition to Belshazzar is sobering (Daniel 5:18-23). What life lessons from parents, elders, teachers, etc., have you failed to heed?

5. "Living in the light of eternity" means that we take our lives seriously, that we refuse to live "sometimes recklessly, sometimes carelessly, often thoughtlessly because we don't think about the consequences of our behavior, and certainly don't expect eternity to begin any time soon." How can we make decisions to live "on purpose" in light of eternity?

6. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon or reading this passage? How is God speaking to you now?

 

"Let truth, the light of my heart, speak to me, and not my own darkness!"
Augustine, Confessons, Book XII, Chapter 11

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Check out YouTube - Aretha Franklin - Beams of Heaven - Audio from Gospel Fes

Hello, all,

I wanted to share with you this experience from June 3, 2005 (I will never forget the experience, but I had to look in my journal to get the correct date). The Pastor's Aid of Duryee Memorial AME Zion Church in Schenectady gave me as a gift a trip to New York to go to the "Gospel Fest" concert at Madison Square Garden in NYC. That night in concert, I heard Donnie McClurkin, Vickie Winans and the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. I will never forget hearing this song that night, already one of my favorites, but so beautifully done here that as I thought of it, I wanted to share it with you. I hope you will enjoy this very meaningful song as much as I do.

 

Click here: YouTube - Aretha Franklin - Beams of Heaven - Audio from Gospel Fest

 

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Check out YouTube - ELDER JAMES LENOX SINGS A MUST SEE!!!

At 1:59 this morning, I woke up singing this song, from out of nowhere, it seemed. It blessed me, and so when I found it on YouTube, I thought I should share it with you.

 

Click here: YouTube - ELDER JAMES LENOX SINGS A MUST SEE!!!

 

(p.s., there is another link for this song with a young lady singing this song, but for me, this one does it. Maybe you need a few gray hairs to sing this and understand it)

Just a thought...

I have never seen anyone in as much of a hurry as when they are rushing to judgment. "Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry" (James 1:19). If your words are seasoned with grace and prudence (Colossians 4:6) they won't taste so bad if you have to eat them later.

Words

Someone shared this with me this morning, and I thought it would be good to pass it on. Let's use our words well today.

The writer of Proverbs describes an unwise person as "one who speaks like the piercings of a sword" (12:18). Our tongues can be like a multi-bladed Swiss Army knife when it comes to the variety of ways that we cut and destroy each other.

Unhealthy attitudes of anger, irritation, frustration, and impatience—even disappointment, stress, guilt, and insecurity—all contribute to our damaging speech. And as we cut with our words, we wound and divide friendships and relationships. It's no wonder that the infamous list of seven things that are an abomination to the Lord includes anyone who "sows discord among brethren" (Prov. 6:16-19).

How do we stay off that list? For starters, we need to watch what we say. Gossip and slander are out, and words that hurt instead of heal are not welcome. Boasting, lying, and all the rest of the ways we use words to hurt and divide need to be gone as well. In their place, words that extend love and the healing power of forgiveness, mercy, and truth should rule our words and relationships. After all, where would we be if Jesus hadn't spoken words of forgiving love and grace to us?

So, put the "knife" away and use your words to help and heal.

Lord, put a seal upon my lips,
Help me to guard with care
The things I say and swift repeat;
O tongue of mine, beware! —Bosch

Our words have the power to build up or tear down.

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Prayer

Good morning/afternoon/evening.

 

We had a wonderful Bible study yesterday and last night, where we discussed Daniel chapter 2 and 4. In our discussion, we engaged conversation about Daniel 2:17: "Then Daniel went to his home and informed his companions, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, and told them to seek mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that Daniel and his companions with the rest of the wise men of Babylon might not perish." Our discussion was regarding how Daniel, in a time of decision and crisis, did not attempt to make a decision without consulting God, and without asking like-minded persons to join him in seeking an answer from God.

 

As you know, we are in the midst of transition, and it is best if we seek God for the direction God will lead us. I know that many (if not all of) you pray for the direction of the church IN GENERAL. However, now I am asking that you join us in prayer SPECIFICALLY in regard to what we should do about our times for service. We have heard from our members about their preferences and opinions. Let us now ask what God would have us do, and let us seek to be led by His guidance.

 

I am asking that everyone who is able join us for Prayer Meeting this evening and next Wednesday at 6 p.m., with the specific goal of seeking God's direction for this important decision for our church. We pray mindful that God answers prayer, and approaching this as did Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20:12: "...We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you."  

If you are unable to physically join us, please be in prayer with us wherever you are at 6 p.m. this week and next. Thanks.

 

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Next steps

Last Sunday (9/19/10) the sermon from Daniel 4:19-27 was titled, "The Danger of Pride." What are the "next steps" God will have us take in response to the Word we heard?

 

1. In what ways do you see pride as both a good and bad thing?

2. How does God show us grace when we are caught up in our pride?

3. We discussed in the sermon how Jonah Lehrer describes the effects of dopamine, how this molecule communicates with our brain cells to tell us when we feel happy or receive pleasure, how scientists discovered through their experiments on the brains of rodents that too much pleasure can be fatal. It was an accidental discovery, but by placing electrodes in several rodents' brains and making them continually excited, the rodents lost interest in everything else. They stopped eating and drinking, their courtship behavior ceased, and the rats just huddled in the corners of their cages, transfixed by pleasure. And Jonah Lehrer writes, "Within days, all of the animals had perished. They died of thirst" (How We Decide, p. 35). How can "too much pleasure" have a negative effect on our lives?

4. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon or reading this passage? How is God speaking to you now? 

 

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Next steps

Last Sunday's sermon from Daniel 3:16-18 was titled, "But If Not, What Then?" What are the "next steps" God will have us take in response to the Word we heard?

 

"May we receive the word we hear each in an honest heart

And keep the precious treasure there, and never with it part."

 

1. Does anyone in your life have the power of a "terrorist" - the power to change who and what you are? How can you take that power back? Keep asking the question, "How do I want to live so I can be who I want to be?"

2. We noted that the Chaldeans in the story in Daniel 3 could not have noticed the Hebrews who did not bow down if they were in fact obeying the orders of the king. What is distracting you from doing what you are supposed to be doing as you move toward maturity (in worship, in work, in ministry, in duty, etc.)?

3. What is the conviction that governs your life and ultimately decides for you in times of crisis (i.e., Deuteronomy 6:4-5 in the lives of these 3 Hebrews)?

4. Are you praying for God to get/take you out of the fire, or are you committed to trusting God in the fire? Can you trust that God will get in /be in the fire with you?

5. What questions/thoughts/convictions were raised in your mind after hearing this sermon or reading this passage? How is God speaking to you now?

 

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Next steps

Good morning,

Well, we are back! And once more, let's reflect on the Word of God from Sunday and see what are the "next steps" God will have us take in response to the Word we heard.

 

"May we receive the word we hear each in an honest heart

And keep the precious treasure there, and never with it part."

(from the hymn, "Once More We Come Before Our God")

 

1. What does it mean to have "a made up mind?" Is that true of you? In what way?

 

2. Because Daniel has his mind made up, he refuses to "sell out" by eating portions from the king's table. What convictions have led you to where you are today? Remember, as Jonah Lehrer says, "We always need to be thinking about how we think."

 

3. When Daniel "purposed" in his heart what he would do, the context of the word suggests that his decision was not dependent on the acceptance of anyone else and therefore required no long or further explanation. Taking such a principled stand raises this question for us: how do I want to live so I can be who I want to be?

 

4. In the sermon, we heard that "some people make progress; other people make excuses." What are you doing - making progress, or making excuses?

 

5. When you make a decision, you are taking a risk, and also affecting the lives of those around you. What is at risk for you to decide who you want to be, or how you want to live? Who will be affected (positively or negatively) by your decision?

 

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Fast Day

Greetings, all,

Just a reminder that tomorrow, September 3, and each first Friday in the month is a FAST DAY for Memorial. All members who are physically able are asked to fast and be in prayer for our church, our leaders, ourselves and the ministry God has given us to accomplish.

As you pray, be mindful that you don't have to go away somewhere and get "deep." If a whispered prayer, such as the prayer that is found in Mark 10:47 - "Jesus...have mercy on me" is all that time allows for, that is sufficient. And then let's watch what happens when we pray!

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

A Thought for Today

I am inspired by these words from Ruth Haley Barton in Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our Lives for Spiritual Transformation (p.24):

 

"Your desire for more of God than you have right now, your longing for love, your need for deeper levels of spiritual transformation than you have experiences so far is the truest thing about you. You might think that your woundedness or your sinfulness is the truest thing about you, or that your giftedness or your personality type or your job title or your identity as husband or wife, mother or father, somehow defines you. But in reality, it is your desire for God and your capacity to reach for more of God than you have right now that is the deepest essence of who you are. There is a place within each one of us that is spiritual in nature, the place where God's Spirit witnesses with our spirit about our truest identity. Here God's Spirit dwells with our spirit, and here our truest desires make themselves known. From this place we cry out to God for deeper union with him and with others."

 

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

A Thought for the Day

I read this today in my devotions, and I wanted to share it with you as it challenged me deeply. It is by Oswald Chambers in the book, "My Utmost for His Highest."

 

"There is still one thing lacking. Sell all that you own and distribute the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me." Luke 18:22

 

"Have you ever heard the Master say a hard word? If you have not, I questions whether you have heard Him say anything. Jesus Christ says a great deal that we listen to, but do not hear; when we do hear, His words are amazingly hard.

 

"Jesus did not seem in the least solicitous that this man should do what He told him, He made no attempt to keep him with Him. He simply said - Sell all you have, and come, follow Me. Our Lord never pleaded, He never cajoled, He never entrapped; He simply spoke the sternest words mortal ears ever listened to, and then left it alone.

 

"This man did understand what Jesus said, he heard it and he sized up what it meant, and it broke his heart. He did not go away defiant; he went away sorrowful, thoroughly discouraged. He had come to Jesus full of the fire of earnest desire, and the word of Jesus simply froze him; instead of producing an enthusiastic devotion, it produced a heart-breaking discouragement. And Jesus did not go after him, He let him go.

 

"Our Lord knows perfectly that when once His word is heard, it will bear fruit sooner or later."

 

So this is my challenge today: do I want to bear fruit for God in my life now, or later? And if later, when will be the opportune time? And what guarantee do I have that I will do it then if I put it off now? What excuses am I making for not being and doing all that God is asking of me?

 

Now I remember a song I learned as a child, and as I wait in the presence of God, this song occurs to me once more:

 

O Jesus, I have promised to serve Thee to the end;
Be Thou forever near me, my Master and my Friend;
I shall not fear the battle if Thou art by my side,
Nor wander from the pathway if Thou wilt be my Guide.

O let me feel Thee near me! The world is ever near;
I see the sights that dazzle, the tempting sounds I hear;
My foes are ever near me, around me and within;
But Jesus, draw Thou nearer, and shield my soul from sin.

O let me hear Thee speaking in accents clear and still,
Above the storms of passion, the murmurs of self will.
O speak to reassure me, to hasten or control;
O speak, and make me listen, Thou Guardian of my soul.

(If you wish to listen to this song, Click here: O Jesus, I Have Promised)

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

A Thought for the Day

I came across this quote today from Tony Campolo, so I thought I'd share it:

 

"When you were born, you cried and everybody else was happy. The only question that matters is this - when you die, will you be happy when everybody else is crying?"

 

"Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart."
Psalm 119:33-34

Pastor Kenneth Q. James

Sermon, August 1 - Next steps

Good morning, all.

Let's talk about the "next steps" after yesterday's sermon.

The text was from Hosea 11, continuing the topic and discussion we began last week, "I Can't Stop Loving You." What did the Spirit say to you after hearing the Word?

1. Which metaphor do you feel more relates to your experience with God - the loving husband betrayed by the unfaithful spouse, or the patient parent loving a disobedient child?
2. How do you respond when you hear a sermon like the one Jonathan Edwards preached ("Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God")? Do you think of God as "not only able to cast wicked men into hell, but he can most easily do it"?
3. In what ways has God shown you "instructive, tolerant, patient, unconditional, corrective or healing" love?
4. Do you think of God more as being "angry" or "loving"? How has this affected your relationship with God?

Check out 700 Club Interactive – July 28, 2010 - CBN TV - Video

When you have a chance, watch this; it can be our "Thought for the Day." And of course, fodder for future discussions. I should mention, in regards to the link I sent, that you can skip to somewhere around the 18:30 minute mark in the show (the first part of the show practically made my head explode, for reasons I can explain at another time).

Sunday (7/25/10) sermon: Next steps

Greetings, all.

First, let me say how happy I am to begin my sixth year as pastor of Memorial AME Zion Church. Thank you to the Pastor's Aid for the very nice welcome reception after worship on Sunday, and to all the members for the kind and heartfelt expressions of welcome as we begin the best year ever at the best church in Rochester!

Now...let's talk about Sunday's sermon - and the "next steps" for us as we journey on in faith.

The text was from Hosea 1; the subject was "I Can't Stop Loving You" (thanks, Ray Charles). What did the Spirit say to you as a result of the sermon?

1. Do you find yourself outraged by injustice in the world? If so, what do you do about it? Or who do you expect to do something about it if you do not?
2. Is Hosea's description in 1:2 that "the whole country has become a whorehouse, unfaithful to God" a fitting description, or is it too much, too strong?
3. Do you agree with the observation from the commentary that "seldom does prosperity lead to behavior that pleases God?"
4. What does Hosea discover in his relationship with his wife when she is unfaithful? What have we discovered in our relationship with God in times of our unfaithfulness?
5. If, as we assert, that God "is not all powerful" (i.e., God cannot make us or force us to love him), what responsibility (or as Stephen Covey puts it, "response-ability") do we have in this relationship?

A thought for the day

"God's grace turns out men and women with a strong family likeness to Jesus Christ."

Oswald Chambers

Sunday's sermon: Next steps

Good morning,

Sunday's sermon text was from Galatians 6:9: “So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up.” The sermon title was, "A Word for the Weary."

I encourage you to reflect on the sermon and think today about your "next steps" and what you will do as a result of hearing the sermon as you continue on your faith journey.

1. Dr. G. Ray Coleman stated, "You have to search high and low to find a congregation with real joy." Are you a person with "real joy?"

2. Are there areas of your life or ministry where you notice you have grown "weary?"

3. Do you see opportunities for God to use you to restore a fallen brother or sister as Paul suggests a mature believer should do in Galatians 6:1-2?

4. Read Galatians 6:7. What is your attitude or response when dealing with ungrateful people? Does this attitude reveal your true agenda for what you do?

5. What is the "seed" that God has given you to sow? Can you be patient and wait for your harvest? Remember, "we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up" (Galatians 6:9).

A Thought for the Day

"Therefore, at the beginning of they day let all distraction and empty talk be silenced and let the first thought and the first word belong to him to whom our whole life belongs." Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together, p. 49

Sunday's sermon: Next steps

Good morning.

Yesterday's sermon text was from 2 Kings 2:9: "And so it was, when they had crossed over, that Elijah said to Elisha, 'Ask! What may I do for you, before I am taken away from you?' Elisha said, 'Please let a double portion of your spirit be upon me.'" The subject was "A Double Portion."

Take time to think today about your "next steps" and what you will do as a result of the sermon on your faith journey.

1. After hearing the sermon yesterday, can you identify areas in your life where "process" is at work? Remember, God takes his time.

2. Since the call is up to God, but the response is up to us, how have you responded to God's call on your life? Read 1 Kings 19:19-21

3. What have the storms or whirlwinds in your life taught you? Read 2 Kings 2:1.

4. You may acknowledge that you have not passed every test. But can you see where you are making progress? Remember, promotion is not based on perfection, but on progress.

5. What is your priority or passion? What drives you? Read 2 Kings 2:9.

6. Whose life inspires you by their passion or devotion so much so that you want to emulate that? What stops you or makes you think you couldn't be that spiritual or passionate?

Continue to pray for our church. I believe that God sent us a "test" yesterday during our worship, and I pray that we passed that test in a way that pleased God. I particularly want to thank the men of Memorial for the way you stepped up and responded.

If we are serious truly about being the Lord's church, such tests will come from time to time, and we must be ready to do what the Lord would have us do. We cannot be apathetic, casual or erratic about this if we really want that "double portion." It will take a seriousness of pursuit that frankly we have not always shown. We pray God's forgiveness and grace on our efforts when they have been less than the best we could do, and pray for God's grace and strength to do better as we make progress.

Thought for the day: "Next steps"

Greetings.

Starting today and each Monday, I am going to e-mail those of you on our list and ask you to consider the "next steps" regarding the sermon you heard and the worship experience you shared on Sunday. There will just be a few questions you will ask of yourself that I pray will encourage, challenge and support you on your faith journey.

Yesterday's sermon at Memorial was from Luke 8:35: “Then people came out to see what had happened, and when they came to Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had gone sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind.” The sermon title was "A Brand New Man."

Think for a moment about your "next steps" and what you will do as you continue on your faith journey.

1. After hearing the sermon, can you identify an area in your life where you need God's guidance to grow or mature?

2. What "storms" in your life do you think are keeping you from getting to Jesus, or keeping him from getting to you?

3. If you are confident that Jesus is on his way to help, save or deliver you, are you ready to let him do what he wants to do now, or will you send him away? Read Luke 8:37.

4. Read Luke 8:30. Who "named" you? What issues define you? What is God saying to you about this?

5. Where and to whom is Jesus sending you to witness to his goodness in your life?

You do not have to respond to me unless you feel the need to dialogue about your journey, but I trust that you will take time to reflect on these questions as we continue together to develop in our daily walk with God.

A Thought for the Day

"Let God be as original with other people as he is with you" (Oswald Chambers). In other words, give God room and time to work in the lives of others in same way he has taken time and been given room to work with you.

Scripture Thought for the Day

"Let the godly strike me! It will be a kindness! If they correct me, it is soothing medicine. Don't let me refuse it." Psalm 141:5

A Thought for the Day

The Bible has great stories; one of my favorite stories is in 2 Samuel 9. David has ascended to the throne of Israel and as he does so, he asks a question in verse 3 of this chapter: "Is there anyone remaining of the house of Saul to whom I may show the kindness of God?"

The interesting this about this is that Saul was so spiteful and mean and hateful to David. But that did not matter to David; he knew that God has been kind to him and he wanted to show to someone else the same kindness he had received.

We've all been hurt, disappointed, treated badly by others and wounded in relationships. Yet today will be a different day if each of us attempts to show the same kindness to others - even to those who have done us wrong - that God has shown to us.

Try it and let us know what happens.

A Song for the Day

Good morning,
I woke up this morning singing this song and so thought I'd share it with you. The tune is not one with which I became familiar with the hymn, but I love the words nonetheless.

Drop below the lyrics included here and read some of the interesting history of the song as well.

Click here: Jesus, Lover of My Soul by Charles Wesley

Jesus, lover of my soul, let me to thy bosom fly,
While the nearer waters roll, while the tempest still is high.
Hide me, O my Savior, hide, till the storm of life is past;
Safe into the haven guide; O receive my soul at last.

Other refuge have I none, hangs my helpless soul on thee;
Leave, ah! leave me not alone, still support and comfort me.
All my trust on thee is stayed, all my help from thee I bring;
Cover my defenseless head with the shadow of thy wing.

Thou, O Christ, art all I want, more than all in thee I find;
Raise the fallen, cheer the faint,heal the sick, and lead the blind.
Just and holy is thy name, I am all unrighteousness;
False and full of sin I am; thou art full of truth and grace.

Plenteous grace with thee is found, grace to cover all my sin;
Let the healing streams abound, make and keep me pure within.
Thou of life the fountain art, freely let me take of thee;
Spring thou up within my heart; rise to all eternity.

The sacred hymn "Jesus, Lover of My Soul" never loses its appeal for it speaks to the basic need of every human heart, a personal dependence upon the infinite God. This Christian song, written by Charles Wesley, is found in nearly every published hymnal and has been translated into almost every known language.

Greatness of "Jesus, Lover of My Soul"
Of the 6500 hymns written by Charles Wesley, "Jesus, Lover of My Soul" is generally considered to be his finest. A prominent American preacher, Henry Ward Beecher, acclaimed the hymn's greatness when he wrote: "I would rather have written that hymn of Wesley's than to have the fame of all the kings that ever sat on earth; it is more glorious, it has more power in it."

It is interesting to note that when Charles Wesley first presented it to his brother, John, founder of the Methodist Church, rejected it on account that it was too sentimental. The hymn came into general use only after the author's death. It was first published in 1740 in a collection of 139 hymns known as Hymns and Sacred Poems.

Scripture Thought for the Day

"I pray to you, O God, because you answer me; so turn to me and listen to my words. Reveal your wonderful love and save me; at your side I am safe from my enemies." Psalm 17:6-7, Today's English Version

A Song for the Day

Click here: Saved, Saved - MIDI and Lyrics - Sacred Hymns - Bible Study Charts.com - Free MIDI Hymns

I attended the revival last night at Walls Memorial in Buffalo where Pastor Scot Moore preached. At the close of his sermon, he sang this song and it lifted the worship to another level (with a big assist from our musician, Michael Rogers on the organ). It inspired me so that I wanted to share it with each of you today, for "life now is sweet and my joy is complete for I'm SAVED, SAVED, SAVED!"

A Thought for the Day

"It takes God a long time to get us out of the way of thinking that unless everyone sees as we do, they must be wrong. Don't get impatient, remember how God dealt with you - with patience and with gentleness. Jesus said, 'Go and make disciples,' not 'make converts to your opinions.'" Oswald Chambers

A Thought for the Day (reflections from the cruise)

Good morning, all.

We all had a wonderful time on the cruise. Thanks is especially due to Sis. Alma Campbell for her diligence in putting this wonderful event together! I had time to rest, think and reflect. I did what I enjoy most - read. I was given space and quiet for the most part, which I value highly. I was "off duty" last week. One of my students described it well, she described me as "selectively social." I am grateful to the members of Memorial for the understanding of that which most of you showed.

Well, one day on the cruise, I got up early and went to the deck of the ship. I looked out over the expanse of water that was before me - an awesome sight. It was not intimidating to me at all, in fact it was quite soothing and reassuring. That was because I thought of this song that I learned when I was a child, which described more than adequately what I felt and sensed at that moment. The thought comforts me even now.

Reflect on this song, sing along if you like, and be blessed today in this knowledge.

Click here: Oremus Hymnal: There's a wideness in God's mercy

There's a wideness in God's mercy like the wideness of the sea;
There's a kindness in his justice, which is more than liberty.
There is welcome for the sinner, and more graces for the good;
There is mercy with the Savior; there is healing in his blood.

There is no place where earth's sorrows are more felt than in heaven;
There is no place where earth's failings have such kind judgment given.
There is plentiful redemption in the blood that has been shed;
There is joy for all the members in the sorrows of the Head.

For the love of God is broader than the measure of man's mind;
And the heart of the Eternal is most wonderfully kind.
If our love were but more faithful, we should take him at his word;
And our life would be thanksgiving for the goodness of the Lord.