Items of Interest https://www.orlcwilliston.org Thu, 28 Mar 2024 05:20:43 -0500 http://churchplantmedia.com/ Pastor's Page - Easter 2023 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/pastors-page---easter-2021 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/pastors-page---easter-2021#comments Thu, 06 Apr 2023 15:00:00 -0500 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/pastors-page---easter-2021 FROM THE PASTOR

He is Risen indeed! Hallelujah!

Dear friends grace to you and peace from God our Father and from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Easter Sunday we consider the question that the heavenly witnesses asked the women at the tomb, “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” These women had been devout followers of Jesus. They had come to the tomb to mourn and to memorialize a body with spices; they were seeking to preserve that which was dead. They came to process their immense grief and sorrow.

The women going to the tomb were in the position that all of us find ourselves in at some point. Death issued another judgment upon a loved one and the world as they knew it had ended. They could have remained in this state for the rest of their lives. But the Word of the Lord spoke into their pain. “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” What a marvelous question! Christ had risen from the grave and death was no longer the final word.

“Why do you seek the living among the dead?” Our answer to that question will shape how we live life in this world. In Christ we are sojourners on this earth. We have different goals and values. We follow a Savior who leads a victorious host of believers through this world of pain, sorrow, meanness, and confusion. Our lives in this world are not the sum of our tragedies or trophies. These things mark our journey, but our lives are shaped abiding in Christ and pressing on to the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Phil 3:14

Paul tells us, “…if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” 2 Cor 5:17 As followers of the risen Christ, (who is King of kings and Lord of lords) we have the joy and privilege of rejoicing in the midst of a world that is passing away. We proclaim life!

To seek life by any of the world’s systems – whichever system that may be – is akin to searching for life among that which is dead, for all that is in this world is changing and passing away. “Why do you seek the living among the dead?”

As Easter people we have the privilege of living in and proclaiming Christ’s victory over death in all that we do. We learn the joy and freedom of forgiving others as we have been forgiven in Christ. We have the privilege of bringing our requests to God and knowing that He has heard them. We have Jesus’ promise to never leave us or forsake us. Because of this we know that whatever the outcome of our earthly goals and pursuits, if they have been brought before the Lord, we have victory in Christ.

For a non-believer such talk does not make sense. In the world’s system the measure of success and failure is assessed by criteria such as power, money, ease, wisdom, etc. And the world’s systems can hold our attention and affections for a time, but with every generation they wither like the grass. But believers in Christ we are children of God, so, in the midst of our frailty, we are being fit for eternity, “…we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.”

To live as Easter people is to live with the confidence that He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you. We proclaim this victory every time we gather and worship together with our brothers and sisters in Christ. We gather in His name and receive His gifts and life. This is why God gave the Sabbath rest so when His family gathers weekly, we encourage and strengthen one another and share True Life together. “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” Find the Living One among His people.

He is Risen indeed! Hallelujah!

Serving the Lord together,
Pastor Steve Lundblom

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FROM THE PASTOR

He is Risen indeed! Hallelujah!

Dear friends grace to you and peace from God our Father and from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Easter Sunday we consider the question that the heavenly witnesses asked the women at the tomb, “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” These women had been devout followers of Jesus. They had come to the tomb to mourn and to memorialize a body with spices; they were seeking to preserve that which was dead. They came to process their immense grief and sorrow.

The women going to the tomb were in the position that all of us find ourselves in at some point. Death issued another judgment upon a loved one and the world as they knew it had ended. They could have remained in this state for the rest of their lives. But the Word of the Lord spoke into their pain. “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” What a marvelous question! Christ had risen from the grave and death was no longer the final word.

“Why do you seek the living among the dead?” Our answer to that question will shape how we live life in this world. In Christ we are sojourners on this earth. We have different goals and values. We follow a Savior who leads a victorious host of believers through this world of pain, sorrow, meanness, and confusion. Our lives in this world are not the sum of our tragedies or trophies. These things mark our journey, but our lives are shaped abiding in Christ and pressing on to the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Phil 3:14

Paul tells us, “…if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” 2 Cor 5:17 As followers of the risen Christ, (who is King of kings and Lord of lords) we have the joy and privilege of rejoicing in the midst of a world that is passing away. We proclaim life!

To seek life by any of the world’s systems – whichever system that may be – is akin to searching for life among that which is dead, for all that is in this world is changing and passing away. “Why do you seek the living among the dead?”

As Easter people we have the privilege of living in and proclaiming Christ’s victory over death in all that we do. We learn the joy and freedom of forgiving others as we have been forgiven in Christ. We have the privilege of bringing our requests to God and knowing that He has heard them. We have Jesus’ promise to never leave us or forsake us. Because of this we know that whatever the outcome of our earthly goals and pursuits, if they have been brought before the Lord, we have victory in Christ.

For a non-believer such talk does not make sense. In the world’s system the measure of success and failure is assessed by criteria such as power, money, ease, wisdom, etc. And the world’s systems can hold our attention and affections for a time, but with every generation they wither like the grass. But believers in Christ we are children of God, so, in the midst of our frailty, we are being fit for eternity, “…we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.”

To live as Easter people is to live with the confidence that He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you. We proclaim this victory every time we gather and worship together with our brothers and sisters in Christ. We gather in His name and receive His gifts and life. This is why God gave the Sabbath rest so when His family gathers weekly, we encourage and strengthen one another and share True Life together. “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” Find the Living One among His people.

He is Risen indeed! Hallelujah!

Serving the Lord together,
Pastor Steve Lundblom

]]>
Pastor's Page - July/August 2020 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/pastors-page---july-august-2020 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/pastors-page---july-august-2020#comments Fri, 21 Aug 2020 10:00:00 -0500 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/pastors-page---july-august-2020 Bless the Lord all my soul, and all that is within me,
                bless His holy name!     Psalm 103:1

 

July 11th will mark 4 months of the declaration that COVID-19 is a pandemic.  At this time in my life I’m choosing not to worry about this “novel coronavirus” labeled COVID-19. Why am I choosing not to worry about it?...  Not because it is not real.  It could turn out to be devastatingly real and looked back upon in our history like one of the plagues!  On the other hand, it could turn out to be just a minor bump, or even dip, in the overall mortality rate of humankind in the year 2020.  The truth is whether this “novel coronavirus” turns out to be a hardcover edition or simply a paperback (My attempt at humor) really doesn’t matter to me.  The real cause of death is sin in the world.  The means of death are many and varied (accidents, flus, organ failure, etc…) but we know that death is unavoidable – whether we are isolated or not. So, am I choosing not to worry about COVID-19 because it is beyond my control?  No!... I’m choosing not to worry about it because God’s Word tells me that I don’t have to worry about it!

 

There are so many wonderful gifts that our Heavenly Father has given to His children.  One of them is contained in Paul’s letter to the Philippians, chapter 4, verse 6:  “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, make your requests known to God.”  What a blessing for each and every day!  Please note, Philippians 4:6 does not say, “Be anxious for nothing (except for a novel coronavirus of course – everyone knows you must quiver with fear when those come around).  If God’s Word instructed me to fear viruses, then I would quiver with fear.  But praise God, this is one more thing that I don’t have to worry about!

 

What a blessing it is to not have to worry.  God is sovereign over all things.  God is aware of the time, date, and means of my exit from this life into eternity.  This thought can make people uneasy.  Some wonder, “If God is Sovereign, does this mean that all life is predetermined and it really does not matter what I do?” No!  God’s knowledge of the outcome does not invalidate our participation and engagement in life.  Jesus died for us so that we might live an abundant life of service to His kingdom with thanksgiving to God; therefore, we live with generous hearts that are quick to forgive others as we have been forgiven in Christ.  God’s sovereignty over all things should not cause us to disengage, instead we embrace each day with confidence knowing that He has promised us eternity through Christ.  This knowledge gives us the confidence to forge through difficult circumstances knowing that nothing in this life can separate us from God’s love and care for us.  A reasonable response to God’s gift of life and redemption is: “I’m going to praise and thank Him as long as I have breath, I want to serve His kingdom by caring for others and proclaiming His truth and love.”

 

Although the last four months seem to me to be some of the most challenging times for our country, I invite you to join me in thanking God and resting in His wonderful offer that we bring our anxieties to Him in prayer.  As we move forward this summer, things may get better, or they may become even more challenging, but God’s grace and mercy will be sufficient for each day.

 

In July we will begin our committee meetings again.  We will also resume our coffee hour between the services.  In order to be compliant with the community protocols, our tables will be spaced over six feet apart and we will work to minimize the contacts on the various food items.  If you are concerned about your health, or others, you are encouraged to wait until you are more comfortable with group activities.

 

I am cautiously optimistic about the Fall.  It is my hope that the Williston schools are open and our Sunday School, circles, Bible Studies, youth activities, and other large events are unhindered.  But whatever the future holds for our world, I invite you to join me in giving thanks to Our Redeemer for granting us life in His name.

 

Blessings to you in Christ,

Pastor Steve

]]>
Bless the Lord all my soul, and all that is within me,
                bless His holy name!     Psalm 103:1

 

July 11th will mark 4 months of the declaration that COVID-19 is a pandemic.  At this time in my life I’m choosing not to worry about this “novel coronavirus” labeled COVID-19. Why am I choosing not to worry about it?...  Not because it is not real.  It could turn out to be devastatingly real and looked back upon in our history like one of the plagues!  On the other hand, it could turn out to be just a minor bump, or even dip, in the overall mortality rate of humankind in the year 2020.  The truth is whether this “novel coronavirus” turns out to be a hardcover edition or simply a paperback (My attempt at humor) really doesn’t matter to me.  The real cause of death is sin in the world.  The means of death are many and varied (accidents, flus, organ failure, etc…) but we know that death is unavoidable – whether we are isolated or not. So, am I choosing not to worry about COVID-19 because it is beyond my control?  No!... I’m choosing not to worry about it because God’s Word tells me that I don’t have to worry about it!

 

There are so many wonderful gifts that our Heavenly Father has given to His children.  One of them is contained in Paul’s letter to the Philippians, chapter 4, verse 6:  “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, make your requests known to God.”  What a blessing for each and every day!  Please note, Philippians 4:6 does not say, “Be anxious for nothing (except for a novel coronavirus of course – everyone knows you must quiver with fear when those come around).  If God’s Word instructed me to fear viruses, then I would quiver with fear.  But praise God, this is one more thing that I don’t have to worry about!

 

What a blessing it is to not have to worry.  God is sovereign over all things.  God is aware of the time, date, and means of my exit from this life into eternity.  This thought can make people uneasy.  Some wonder, “If God is Sovereign, does this mean that all life is predetermined and it really does not matter what I do?” No!  God’s knowledge of the outcome does not invalidate our participation and engagement in life.  Jesus died for us so that we might live an abundant life of service to His kingdom with thanksgiving to God; therefore, we live with generous hearts that are quick to forgive others as we have been forgiven in Christ.  God’s sovereignty over all things should not cause us to disengage, instead we embrace each day with confidence knowing that He has promised us eternity through Christ.  This knowledge gives us the confidence to forge through difficult circumstances knowing that nothing in this life can separate us from God’s love and care for us.  A reasonable response to God’s gift of life and redemption is: “I’m going to praise and thank Him as long as I have breath, I want to serve His kingdom by caring for others and proclaiming His truth and love.”

 

Although the last four months seem to me to be some of the most challenging times for our country, I invite you to join me in thanking God and resting in His wonderful offer that we bring our anxieties to Him in prayer.  As we move forward this summer, things may get better, or they may become even more challenging, but God’s grace and mercy will be sufficient for each day.

 

In July we will begin our committee meetings again.  We will also resume our coffee hour between the services.  In order to be compliant with the community protocols, our tables will be spaced over six feet apart and we will work to minimize the contacts on the various food items.  If you are concerned about your health, or others, you are encouraged to wait until you are more comfortable with group activities.

 

I am cautiously optimistic about the Fall.  It is my hope that the Williston schools are open and our Sunday School, circles, Bible Studies, youth activities, and other large events are unhindered.  But whatever the future holds for our world, I invite you to join me in giving thanks to Our Redeemer for granting us life in His name.

 

Blessings to you in Christ,

Pastor Steve

]]>
Pastor's Page May 2020 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/may-2020 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/may-2020#comments Wed, 29 Apr 2020 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/may-2020 FROM THE PASTOR

But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe.  Romans 3:21-2

Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

“He is risen!” 
            “He is risen indeed! Hallelujah!” 

I thank God for the inestimable gift of His Son, whose resurrection was celebrated again this Easter, but this was a different Easter Celebration than any previous one in my history and I’m sure yours as well.  Churches were empty.  Christians were gathered in homes.  But still, this great proclamation rang out around the world.  And the power of the proclamation is not sullied by the darkness of the world because Jesus Christ died in our place to save us from the darkness of the world.  The author of Psalm 46 knew the frailty of this earth thus he wrote:

    The Nations rage, the kingdoms totter;   
He utters His voice, the earth melts.      
Psalm 46:6

This Psalm has always been true, but what a vivid illustration of tottering kingdoms we have had in the month of April 2020.  School buildings were closed, restaurants were closed, oil dropped to -$40.00 a barrel (yes, negative $40).  Talk about tottering kingdoms.  These  are just a few of many illustrations that I could choose from, but let’s all agree that April of 2020 demonstrated the fragileness of our kingdoms in many and various ways.  And yet, the truth remains.

“He is risen!” 
            “He is risen indeed! Hallelujah!” 

If our minds are fixed on the things of the world, our scope is limited to the resources of this Earth.  With this limited vision

 

these changes could seem unbearable, and the personal losses in so many areas of life could seem to have created a gulf that we cannot bear. 

Praise God, this is not what our Heavenly Father has for His children.  As we move forward in faith in Christ Jesus each day is received as a gift – not a right.  And as each year passes, we are closer to our own departure.  Jesus told His followers when they see the things of this world slipping away, “…straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”  Luke 21:28

This confidence in the finished work of Christ – which is testified to throughout the Old Testament prophecies fulfilled in Jesus Christ and which are also testified to clearly in the history of the world – sets us free to serve those around us whom God has placed in our lives, to forgive others as Christ has forgiven us, and to live with confidence and joy that those whose eyes are fixed in the world cannot comprehend.  This confidence even sets us free to enjoy glimpses of heaven on this Earth!

“He is risen!”  And life has conquered death!

Whatever the “New Normal” looks like, the “Eternal Normal” is that Christ our Savior and Redeemer has conquered sin and death, and this life is about serving His kingdom.  Because of His forgiveness, we can do this with freedom and joy.  Our doors to worship are open once again.  Please come to worship when you are comfortable, and feel free to stay home if you are not.  Wherever you are, the good news remains…
“He is risen!”   
            “He is risen indeed! Hallelujah!” 

Resurrection blessings to you!

Pastor Steve Lundblom

]]>
FROM THE PASTOR

But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe.  Romans 3:21-2

Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

“He is risen!” 
            “He is risen indeed! Hallelujah!” 

I thank God for the inestimable gift of His Son, whose resurrection was celebrated again this Easter, but this was a different Easter Celebration than any previous one in my history and I’m sure yours as well.  Churches were empty.  Christians were gathered in homes.  But still, this great proclamation rang out around the world.  And the power of the proclamation is not sullied by the darkness of the world because Jesus Christ died in our place to save us from the darkness of the world.  The author of Psalm 46 knew the frailty of this earth thus he wrote:

    The Nations rage, the kingdoms totter;   
He utters His voice, the earth melts.      
Psalm 46:6

This Psalm has always been true, but what a vivid illustration of tottering kingdoms we have had in the month of April 2020.  School buildings were closed, restaurants were closed, oil dropped to -$40.00 a barrel (yes, negative $40).  Talk about tottering kingdoms.  These  are just a few of many illustrations that I could choose from, but let’s all agree that April of 2020 demonstrated the fragileness of our kingdoms in many and various ways.  And yet, the truth remains.

“He is risen!” 
            “He is risen indeed! Hallelujah!” 

If our minds are fixed on the things of the world, our scope is limited to the resources of this Earth.  With this limited vision

 

these changes could seem unbearable, and the personal losses in so many areas of life could seem to have created a gulf that we cannot bear. 

Praise God, this is not what our Heavenly Father has for His children.  As we move forward in faith in Christ Jesus each day is received as a gift – not a right.  And as each year passes, we are closer to our own departure.  Jesus told His followers when they see the things of this world slipping away, “…straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”  Luke 21:28

This confidence in the finished work of Christ – which is testified to throughout the Old Testament prophecies fulfilled in Jesus Christ and which are also testified to clearly in the history of the world – sets us free to serve those around us whom God has placed in our lives, to forgive others as Christ has forgiven us, and to live with confidence and joy that those whose eyes are fixed in the world cannot comprehend.  This confidence even sets us free to enjoy glimpses of heaven on this Earth!

“He is risen!”  And life has conquered death!

Whatever the “New Normal” looks like, the “Eternal Normal” is that Christ our Savior and Redeemer has conquered sin and death, and this life is about serving His kingdom.  Because of His forgiveness, we can do this with freedom and joy.  Our doors to worship are open once again.  Please come to worship when you are comfortable, and feel free to stay home if you are not.  Wherever you are, the good news remains…
“He is risen!”   
            “He is risen indeed! Hallelujah!” 

Resurrection blessings to you!

Pastor Steve Lundblom

]]>
April 2020 Pastor's Page https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/april-2020-pastors-page https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/april-2020-pastors-page#comments Thu, 02 Apr 2020 11:00:00 -0500 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/april-2020-pastors-page FROM THE PASTOR

 

   “…By the rivers of Babylon, There we sat down and wept,
When we remembered Zion.
         Upon the willows in the midst of it We hung our harps….
             How can we sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land?  Psalm 137 1,2, and4

 The people of God were in captivity in Babylon.  They were exiled and separated from the temple of God.  They were in an unfamiliar place and a foreign land.  They now longed for the things they had taken for granted, things for which they had forgotten to give thanks to God.  In captivity they realized what a treasure they had received in being made God’s people; a treasure that they had despised in neglecting God’s instruction.

 I have read this Psalm many times, but I have never identified with it.  It is a Psalm about captivity; candidly, I have never felt “captive.”  That is until this past month, particularly the last two weeks.  The final weeks of March have been the most significant change to life in America that I think any of us have ever witnessed.  And not only life in America, but around the world.  Travel is almost at a complete halt; schools are closed; individuals and families are “self-isolating” for two weeks; the NHL, MLB, NBA, PGA, NASCAR, and all youth sports have shut down for a time. 

Stranger still, as we have been asked to limit gatherings to fewer than 10 people; congregational worship is taking place over the radio or through other electronic means.  And as time passes the precautions are increasing, not decreasing.  The Federal Gov. is now recommending social distancing through the entire month of April.  We are living in unprecedented times! 

 For me, the most difficult part of all of this is missing my church family.  An empty sanctuary on Sunday morning feels in some measure like I’m a captive in a foreign land. 

In the case of the children of Israel, their captivity produced in them many good things.  Such as: a thirst for the things of God, a thirst for the Word of God, a thirst for the worship of God, a thirst for fellowship with other believers.  This longing for God generated a thirst for renewal.

 It is my prayer that as a nation this time of isolation will produce a greater thirst for the things of God, for the ways of God, for the worship of God, and for the fellowship with God’s people.  It is my prayer that the stripping away of so many activities might create opportunities for God’s people to indeed heed God’s Word where He says: “Be still, and know that I am God. I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth!” Ps 46:10 

 I don’t want people to say, “Lord, make things go back to the way they were.”  I want people to cry out, “Lord, help us return to you.” 

This crisis will end, and I’m sure that the future holds many more crises for all of us.  This is why we need a Savior, and this is why Jesus gave us the gift of our brothers and sisters in the church, the body of Christ.  Right now we are temporarily separated, how wonderful it will be when we gather once again to worship God together and share in His fellowship with our fellow believers!

In Christ’s Love – April 2020
Pastor Steve Lundblom

]]>
FROM THE PASTOR

 

   “…By the rivers of Babylon, There we sat down and wept,
When we remembered Zion.
         Upon the willows in the midst of it We hung our harps….
             How can we sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land?  Psalm 137 1,2, and4

 The people of God were in captivity in Babylon.  They were exiled and separated from the temple of God.  They were in an unfamiliar place and a foreign land.  They now longed for the things they had taken for granted, things for which they had forgotten to give thanks to God.  In captivity they realized what a treasure they had received in being made God’s people; a treasure that they had despised in neglecting God’s instruction.

 I have read this Psalm many times, but I have never identified with it.  It is a Psalm about captivity; candidly, I have never felt “captive.”  That is until this past month, particularly the last two weeks.  The final weeks of March have been the most significant change to life in America that I think any of us have ever witnessed.  And not only life in America, but around the world.  Travel is almost at a complete halt; schools are closed; individuals and families are “self-isolating” for two weeks; the NHL, MLB, NBA, PGA, NASCAR, and all youth sports have shut down for a time. 

Stranger still, as we have been asked to limit gatherings to fewer than 10 people; congregational worship is taking place over the radio or through other electronic means.  And as time passes the precautions are increasing, not decreasing.  The Federal Gov. is now recommending social distancing through the entire month of April.  We are living in unprecedented times! 

 For me, the most difficult part of all of this is missing my church family.  An empty sanctuary on Sunday morning feels in some measure like I’m a captive in a foreign land. 

In the case of the children of Israel, their captivity produced in them many good things.  Such as: a thirst for the things of God, a thirst for the Word of God, a thirst for the worship of God, a thirst for fellowship with other believers.  This longing for God generated a thirst for renewal.

 It is my prayer that as a nation this time of isolation will produce a greater thirst for the things of God, for the ways of God, for the worship of God, and for the fellowship with God’s people.  It is my prayer that the stripping away of so many activities might create opportunities for God’s people to indeed heed God’s Word where He says: “Be still, and know that I am God. I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth!” Ps 46:10 

 I don’t want people to say, “Lord, make things go back to the way they were.”  I want people to cry out, “Lord, help us return to you.” 

This crisis will end, and I’m sure that the future holds many more crises for all of us.  This is why we need a Savior, and this is why Jesus gave us the gift of our brothers and sisters in the church, the body of Christ.  Right now we are temporarily separated, how wonderful it will be when we gather once again to worship God together and share in His fellowship with our fellow believers!

In Christ’s Love – April 2020
Pastor Steve Lundblom

]]>
September Newsletter Front Page https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/september-newsletter- https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/september-newsletter-#comments Sun, 01 Sep 2019 15:00:00 -0500 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/september-newsletter- FROM THE PASTOR

“See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil. If you obey the commandments of the Lord your God that I command you today, by loving the Lord your God, by walking in his ways, and by keeping his commandments and his statutes and his rules, then you shall live and multiply, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land that you are entering to take possession of it.”                       Deut. 30:15–16

 

Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

 

Rally Day is upon us and Fall is right around the corner.  Are you ready?  From what the Farmer’s Almanac is projecting – and the Farmer’s Almanac is always right ]]> FROM THE PASTOR

“See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil. If you obey the commandments of the Lord your God that I command you today, by loving the Lord your God, by walking in his ways, and by keeping his commandments and his statutes and his rules, then you shall live and multiply, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land that you are entering to take possession of it.”                       Deut. 30:15–16

 

Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

 

Rally Day is upon us and Fall is right around the corner.  Are you ready?  From what the Farmer’s Almanac is projecting – and the Farmer’s Almanac is always right ]]> March Newsletter https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/march-newsletter https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/march-newsletter#comments Wed, 28 Feb 2018 16:00:00 -0600 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/march-newsletter FROM THE PASTOR

 

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.  Eph. 4:1-3

 

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ.  We are already two weeks into the season of Lent.  For those who participate in the practice of Lent, this is a time when we consider the struggle with sin in the world.  But not simply the concept of sin in the world, but our own struggle with sin. 

 

Struggling with sin is not simply assenting to the fact that there is sin in the world – indeed, that is easy to do.  Struggling with sin is not simply recognizing the faults of other people and what they are doing wrong.  The intent of Lent is that we consider the impact of our sin: in our relationships, in our church family, in our work; this list could continue for the remainder of these pages.  And worse yet, not only is our sinful nature tugging and pulling at us, if we are around any other people,…we are involved with those who share our same struggle. 

 

The Apostle Paul shared our same struggle.  Paul wrote to the Christians in Rome, “I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?”  Rom 7:23-4 

 

Wouldn’t it be nice if everyone else saw things the way we did?  Or better yet, if everyone thought the way we thought?  Maybe…, but we will never know because this has never happened.  We might appeal to a close friend to see things our way, only to be frustrated when they don’t.  So, what do we do?!?

 

The good news for the Christian is that God’s Word tells us that these struggles are part of life in a fallen world.  The season of Lent and the struggle with sin in this world lead us to the sacrifice of Our Redeemer on Good Friday and the empty cross of Easter.  Jesus died to reconcile us to God, and to reconcile us to each other.  “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” 2 Cor 5:17-8  The road of reconciliation is a road that our Savior calls us to walk.  As difficult as it may seem, it is a road we are blessed to walk, together.

 

As followers of Christ we hear the Word of our Lord which calls us to:

  • Confess our sins to one another. James 5:16
  • Humble ourselves before each other. 1 Peter 5:5, 6
  • Avoid Gossip like it is the plague. James 1:26, Eph. 4:29
  • As far as it depends on us… seek peace. Romans 12:18

 

These are not simply keys for joy, they are necessary for healthy life in a family and in a congregation.  To live in this manner does not come naturally to us, this is why Paul urges us to walk in a manner that is worthy of our calling as children of God.  We are His, and this is His church – praise God!!!

 

On Sunday the 11th, we will be installing the council for service this coming year.  I urge you to pray for them.  I also urge you to respect their time at worship.  They are not our servants and they are not our lords; they are called to prayerfully guide our congregation.  This is a task that is bigger than any individual.  As such, when they come to worship, please let them worship.  They need to confess sins, hear the Word of God, and give thanks to God just like the rest of us.  In light of this, if you have an idea for them to consider, please write it down and bring it to the office.  From there it will go to the appropriate board who will prayerfully consider it, along with other ideas from other members of our church family.  This is how our constitution is written and this process helps to keep things from being overlooked.  It also allows things to be done in order, and with much prayer, in our fallen world.  A world where Christ alone is our peace!  He is Risen.

 

He is Risen indeed!  Hallelujah!

Pastor Steve Lundblom

 

]]>
FROM THE PASTOR

 

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.  Eph. 4:1-3

 

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ.  We are already two weeks into the season of Lent.  For those who participate in the practice of Lent, this is a time when we consider the struggle with sin in the world.  But not simply the concept of sin in the world, but our own struggle with sin. 

 

Struggling with sin is not simply assenting to the fact that there is sin in the world – indeed, that is easy to do.  Struggling with sin is not simply recognizing the faults of other people and what they are doing wrong.  The intent of Lent is that we consider the impact of our sin: in our relationships, in our church family, in our work; this list could continue for the remainder of these pages.  And worse yet, not only is our sinful nature tugging and pulling at us, if we are around any other people,…we are involved with those who share our same struggle. 

 

The Apostle Paul shared our same struggle.  Paul wrote to the Christians in Rome, “I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?”  Rom 7:23-4 

 

Wouldn’t it be nice if everyone else saw things the way we did?  Or better yet, if everyone thought the way we thought?  Maybe…, but we will never know because this has never happened.  We might appeal to a close friend to see things our way, only to be frustrated when they don’t.  So, what do we do?!?

 

The good news for the Christian is that God’s Word tells us that these struggles are part of life in a fallen world.  The season of Lent and the struggle with sin in this world lead us to the sacrifice of Our Redeemer on Good Friday and the empty cross of Easter.  Jesus died to reconcile us to God, and to reconcile us to each other.  “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” 2 Cor 5:17-8  The road of reconciliation is a road that our Savior calls us to walk.  As difficult as it may seem, it is a road we are blessed to walk, together.

 

As followers of Christ we hear the Word of our Lord which calls us to:

  • Confess our sins to one another. James 5:16
  • Humble ourselves before each other. 1 Peter 5:5, 6
  • Avoid Gossip like it is the plague. James 1:26, Eph. 4:29
  • As far as it depends on us… seek peace. Romans 12:18

 

These are not simply keys for joy, they are necessary for healthy life in a family and in a congregation.  To live in this manner does not come naturally to us, this is why Paul urges us to walk in a manner that is worthy of our calling as children of God.  We are His, and this is His church – praise God!!!

 

On Sunday the 11th, we will be installing the council for service this coming year.  I urge you to pray for them.  I also urge you to respect their time at worship.  They are not our servants and they are not our lords; they are called to prayerfully guide our congregation.  This is a task that is bigger than any individual.  As such, when they come to worship, please let them worship.  They need to confess sins, hear the Word of God, and give thanks to God just like the rest of us.  In light of this, if you have an idea for them to consider, please write it down and bring it to the office.  From there it will go to the appropriate board who will prayerfully consider it, along with other ideas from other members of our church family.  This is how our constitution is written and this process helps to keep things from being overlooked.  It also allows things to be done in order, and with much prayer, in our fallen world.  A world where Christ alone is our peace!  He is Risen.

 

He is Risen indeed!  Hallelujah!

Pastor Steve Lundblom

 

]]>
December Greetings and Events https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/_2 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/_2#comments Sat, 02 Dec 2017 13:00:00 -0600 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/_2 FROM THE PASTOR

 

“Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.” 

Isa. 40:3, Mk 1:3

 

Come celebrate the New Year early!  Of course, I’m talking about the new church year.  It begins Sunday, December 3rd with the season of Advent.  The Season of Advent is not simply a     countdown to Christmas – although I remember counting down the candles each week when I was a child – the Season of Advent is the time of waiting for Christ to come into our dark world. 

 

The focus of Advent typically is remembering Christ’s first coming, but during Advent we also look forward to Christ’s return!  For all who are in Christ this is good news!  He is returning; you will stand before Him, I will as well.  We are to be ready for His return at any time and we live in readiness as we abide in Him through worship, reading the Scriptures, prayer, and fellowship with believers. 

Upcoming Activities

 

On the 10th our choir will perform the Cantata – One of Us.  The choir will be performing at the 9:00 and the 11:15 service.  The 11:15 time makes it possible for Christians in Williston with other church homes to hear our excellent choir – feel free to invite a friend, or three!

 

The remaining weeks of December, there will be just
one 9:00 AM service in the morning.  This means
we can all worship together at the same time!

 

  • On the 17th our Sunday School children will be presenting their Christmas program. The children’s program is a highlight of every Christmas season!
  • The morning of the 24th is the Fourth Sunday of Advent and the last Service before Christmas Eve.
  • Christmas Eve Worship, Sunday, the 24th at 5:00 PM
  • New Year’s Eve will also fall on a Sunday and there will be one service at 9:00.

 

 

 

There are of course many other events in December!

 

  • Decorating the Church on December 3rd after the Relay for Life auction and lunch.
  • Tuesday Evening Midweek Advent Worship at 7:00 PM in the chapel.
  • Living Nativity. We will present this downtown at Broadway and Main on the 7th between 5 and 8 PM.  We will also present it on the 17th and the 20th at
    6:30 PM on the south lawn in front of our sanctuary.
  • Caroling! You can join a group of Carolers on either Saturday the 16th at 2:00 PM at Bethel, or Tuesday the 19th also at 2:00 (we will be singing at Briarwood 2 then 1, Golden Estates, and Arbor House).
  • Art of the Nativity. We are opening our doors to the community once again as we host this community Nativity exhibit.
  • On the 10th our Women of Life will have their Christmas event and that same day our Youth will celebrate their 3rd annual Christmas Dinner.

 

These are just a few of many opportunities for us to worship Him and fellowship together.  They can all be viewed on our website, www.orlcwilliston.org

 

Also, if you have a friend who does not have a church home, I encourage you to invite them.

 

 

Merry Christmas!

Pastor Steve Lundblom

 

 

]]>
FROM THE PASTOR

 

“Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.” 

Isa. 40:3, Mk 1:3

 

Come celebrate the New Year early!  Of course, I’m talking about the new church year.  It begins Sunday, December 3rd with the season of Advent.  The Season of Advent is not simply a     countdown to Christmas – although I remember counting down the candles each week when I was a child – the Season of Advent is the time of waiting for Christ to come into our dark world. 

 

The focus of Advent typically is remembering Christ’s first coming, but during Advent we also look forward to Christ’s return!  For all who are in Christ this is good news!  He is returning; you will stand before Him, I will as well.  We are to be ready for His return at any time and we live in readiness as we abide in Him through worship, reading the Scriptures, prayer, and fellowship with believers. 

Upcoming Activities

 

On the 10th our choir will perform the Cantata – One of Us.  The choir will be performing at the 9:00 and the 11:15 service.  The 11:15 time makes it possible for Christians in Williston with other church homes to hear our excellent choir – feel free to invite a friend, or three!

 

The remaining weeks of December, there will be just
one 9:00 AM service in the morning.  This means
we can all worship together at the same time!

 

  • On the 17th our Sunday School children will be presenting their Christmas program. The children’s program is a highlight of every Christmas season!
  • The morning of the 24th is the Fourth Sunday of Advent and the last Service before Christmas Eve.
  • Christmas Eve Worship, Sunday, the 24th at 5:00 PM
  • New Year’s Eve will also fall on a Sunday and there will be one service at 9:00.

 

 

 

There are of course many other events in December!

 

  • Decorating the Church on December 3rd after the Relay for Life auction and lunch.
  • Tuesday Evening Midweek Advent Worship at 7:00 PM in the chapel.
  • Living Nativity. We will present this downtown at Broadway and Main on the 7th between 5 and 8 PM.  We will also present it on the 17th and the 20th at
    6:30 PM on the south lawn in front of our sanctuary.
  • Caroling! You can join a group of Carolers on either Saturday the 16th at 2:00 PM at Bethel, or Tuesday the 19th also at 2:00 (we will be singing at Briarwood 2 then 1, Golden Estates, and Arbor House).
  • Art of the Nativity. We are opening our doors to the community once again as we host this community Nativity exhibit.
  • On the 10th our Women of Life will have their Christmas event and that same day our Youth will celebrate their 3rd annual Christmas Dinner.

 

These are just a few of many opportunities for us to worship Him and fellowship together.  They can all be viewed on our website, www.orlcwilliston.org

 

Also, if you have a friend who does not have a church home, I encourage you to invite them.

 

 

Merry Christmas!

Pastor Steve Lundblom

 

 

]]>
Staying Sharp https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/resting-in-the-lord https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/resting-in-the-lord#comments Tue, 05 Sep 2017 17:00:00 -0500 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/resting-in-the-lord FROM THE PASTOR:

 

       “Finally, be strong in the Lord
     and in the strength of His might.

                                                         Apostle Paul, Eph 6:10

 

Perhaps you have heard the story of two men who were chopping wood.  They both had a large pile of wood to chop through.  The first man worked steadily all day, while the other would take occasional breaks to sit and rest.  While resting the second man called to his friend to join him and even promised, “I can help you.”  The first man would reply, “I’ve got too much work that I must get done,” and he kept chopping.  At the end of the day the first man was shocked to see that his friend, who had taken regular rest breaks, had chopped a lot more wood.  He asked, “How did that happen?” and of course, the second man replied, “every time I stopped to rest, I sharpened my ax.”

 

While this story is perhaps familiar, are you putting the principle into action in the most important area of life?  By this I mean, your relationship to Christ and living in this world knowing that you are a Child of God.  I’m not writing about things that you have to do to earn God’s love, or works that you have to do to please God.  Salvation and redemption are God’s free gift to all who receive it.  “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”  Eph2:8,9  The very next verse is what I am writing about, it addresses why you are here at this time and not in heaven with the Lord;  “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Eph2:10

 

Walking in what God has prepared us to do means living with purpose and thankfulness until He calls us home.  In order to do this we need to take time to rest and to be strengthened in the Lord.  We need to intentionally make time to be renewed by His Word, and to be refreshed through prayer and fellowship with our sisters and brothers in Christ.  These should not be things that we abandon when we get busy.  If we abandon fellowship with God and His people – and we are not receiving direction from the Word of God – we will quickly be trapped by an exhausting pattern of labor that will soon be meaningless. 

 

Solomon, who accomplished an incredible amount of lasting work in his lifetime knew this, and he wrote it down for us, “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.”  Psalm 127:1  Jesus was clearer, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5   

 

This call to rest in the Lord is becoming increasingly foreign to people in our society.  It seems like more and more things are added to people lives to the point that busyness becomes the mind numbing norm….  Don’t let busyness separate you from being renewed in Christ.  Satan would love for everyone to chase after 16 hour days, 7 days a week, pursuing things and activities that can distract us for a time, but ultimately do not satisfy and cannot nourish.   We are seeing the fallout of these priorities in the lives of all ages, particularly the youth and young adults of this generation.   

 

If your schedule has become too hectic I urge you to consider cutting something out of your schedule, something that will not matter in eternity.  And while enjoying these beautiful summer months, carve out time to worship with your church family to rest in the Lord and be sharpened at the same time.  You are a Child of God, and you are created to live for eternity.  Join your family as we grow up together.  Amen

Peace to you in Christ,

 

Pastor Steve Lundblom

]]>
FROM THE PASTOR:

 

       “Finally, be strong in the Lord
     and in the strength of His might.

                                                         Apostle Paul, Eph 6:10

 

Perhaps you have heard the story of two men who were chopping wood.  They both had a large pile of wood to chop through.  The first man worked steadily all day, while the other would take occasional breaks to sit and rest.  While resting the second man called to his friend to join him and even promised, “I can help you.”  The first man would reply, “I’ve got too much work that I must get done,” and he kept chopping.  At the end of the day the first man was shocked to see that his friend, who had taken regular rest breaks, had chopped a lot more wood.  He asked, “How did that happen?” and of course, the second man replied, “every time I stopped to rest, I sharpened my ax.”

 

While this story is perhaps familiar, are you putting the principle into action in the most important area of life?  By this I mean, your relationship to Christ and living in this world knowing that you are a Child of God.  I’m not writing about things that you have to do to earn God’s love, or works that you have to do to please God.  Salvation and redemption are God’s free gift to all who receive it.  “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”  Eph2:8,9  The very next verse is what I am writing about, it addresses why you are here at this time and not in heaven with the Lord;  “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Eph2:10

 

Walking in what God has prepared us to do means living with purpose and thankfulness until He calls us home.  In order to do this we need to take time to rest and to be strengthened in the Lord.  We need to intentionally make time to be renewed by His Word, and to be refreshed through prayer and fellowship with our sisters and brothers in Christ.  These should not be things that we abandon when we get busy.  If we abandon fellowship with God and His people – and we are not receiving direction from the Word of God – we will quickly be trapped by an exhausting pattern of labor that will soon be meaningless. 

 

Solomon, who accomplished an incredible amount of lasting work in his lifetime knew this, and he wrote it down for us, “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.”  Psalm 127:1  Jesus was clearer, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5   

 

This call to rest in the Lord is becoming increasingly foreign to people in our society.  It seems like more and more things are added to people lives to the point that busyness becomes the mind numbing norm….  Don’t let busyness separate you from being renewed in Christ.  Satan would love for everyone to chase after 16 hour days, 7 days a week, pursuing things and activities that can distract us for a time, but ultimately do not satisfy and cannot nourish.   We are seeing the fallout of these priorities in the lives of all ages, particularly the youth and young adults of this generation.   

 

If your schedule has become too hectic I urge you to consider cutting something out of your schedule, something that will not matter in eternity.  And while enjoying these beautiful summer months, carve out time to worship with your church family to rest in the Lord and be sharpened at the same time.  You are a Child of God, and you are created to live for eternity.  Join your family as we grow up together.  Amen

Peace to you in Christ,

 

Pastor Steve Lundblom

]]>
Jesus asks, "Who do say that I am?" https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/who-do-say-that-i-am https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/who-do-say-that-i-am#comments Wed, 30 Aug 2017 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/who-do-say-that-i-am FROM THE PASTOR:

 

       “He said to His disciples, “…who do you say that I am?”.         Jesus, Matt 16:15

 

This Gospel passage was preached at our recent Rally Day Celebration.  It is a question meant to challenge not only the disciples, but generations of Christians throughout the centuries.

As you may or may not remember, Jesus asked this question while He was with His disciples in Caesarea Philippi.  This area had been a hotbed of pagan idol-worship through the centuries; it was no different in the time of Jesus. 

I don’t know what you picture when you hear “idol-worship.”  I think for many people we might have an image of a person in a hut bowing down before an object of wood or stone.  While this may represent some forms of idol-worship, to limit idol-worship to this picture is a very simple characterization.  It is a characterization that can enable us to think, “I’m glad I don’t live in that irrational world.”

Expressions of idol-worship are multi-faceted, but ultimately the purpose of idol-worship is the gaining of favor through submissive action.  Idol-worship involves the giving of something so that the participant might get something.  The nature of worship is intentionally setting something as the most important thing in a person’s life.  We all have our idols and by virtue of our sinful nature we often allow these idols to ascend to higher and higher positions in our lives in hopes of delivering on some promise, or even for the purpose of making a statement to those around us about our fervor or dedication.  

Two of Jesus’ disciples had ambitions of self-exaltation.  James and John wanted to be the most important people in Jesus’ kingdom.  Jesus told them if you want to be the greatest be a servant.  Peter boasted of his dedication, specifically that even if all the disciples ran from persecution he would not.  The claim was one of pride in his strength.  Jesus told Peter, tonight you are going to deny me three times. 

We all have our idols, and many of these idols look good and are even considered acceptable and reasonable to our peers. This creates a conflict as the whims of society change from one generation to the next.  The question, “who do you say that I am?” is meant to set the Christian’s eyes upon Jesus, and if we say, “you are the Son of God,” or “you are Lord,” we are meant to shift our goals from the things of the world to the things of God.  Throughout history it has been and is true that just because something is acceptable, or seems to offer promise, that does not mean it is good.  And anything that we put above our relationship to Christ, no matter how good is seems or looks, is not good.  True then and true today.

Jesus asks, “who do you say that I am?”  Our response to this question will impact how we live.  It will impact our peace.  It will impact how we view death.  It should impact how we prioritize activities in our lives.

In the prophet Isaiah’s day, most of the people of God were chasing after things that promised great rewards, but did not deliver on them.  They chased after things that caused them to neglect God because they simply did not have time left for God.  Rather than giving the first-fruits of time, talent, and treasure, God was given whatever was left over.  Chasing these false idols resulted in great harm to individuals and families.  God, speaking through the prophet, questions His people:  “Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?”

The past few generations of parents have been facing in greater and greater measure demands for time, travel, and treasure for sanctioned activities of all kinds that promise, “If you do this your child will be happy and balanced.”  Has this happened?  No!  And studies are showing again and again, “No!”  The response to this has not been to cut back and simplify, instead the theory seems to be we will add even more.  It seems that for many, all of these expectations are, as Solomon said, “a chasing after the wind.”  Ecc 1:14

Those of you who are presently entrusted with the care of children, I would encourage you to consider the definition of the term “parenting.”  Merriam-Webster uses this definition: “the process of taking care of children until they are old enough to take care of themselves.”  They are your charge and you don’t have to give up your rights wholesale to any coach, team, leader, or club.  I can’t imagine any high-school leader in the 1970’s standing before a group of parents saying, “By the way, over the next three months I am claiming ten weekends, and for at least five of those you will be driving to either: Minot, Bismarck, Grand Forks, or Fargo.” 

I don’t know when parents gave up their rights….  Maybe they didn’t.  Maybe this is all good stuff, but that is not what any studies show.  Also, that is not what we are seeing in the lives of young adults who come out of this temporary world of unsustainable activity with all sorts of different expectations from those around them to cater to them. 

I am not saying that this is wrong, but I am suggesting that if you go down that trail, make it your choice, and count the cost.

I encourage all of us to prayerfully consider the activities, choices, and sacrifices that we are making in light of what we consider to be important and lasting.  The one who asks, “who do you say that I am?” is also the one who said, “take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”  Matt. 11:29 Praise God!  What a wonderful promise from Our Redeemer!  And He has been delivering on this promise throughout the generations for those who abide in Him.

Peace to you in Christ,

Pastor Steve Lundblom

]]>
FROM THE PASTOR:

 

       “He said to His disciples, “…who do you say that I am?”.         Jesus, Matt 16:15

 

This Gospel passage was preached at our recent Rally Day Celebration.  It is a question meant to challenge not only the disciples, but generations of Christians throughout the centuries.

As you may or may not remember, Jesus asked this question while He was with His disciples in Caesarea Philippi.  This area had been a hotbed of pagan idol-worship through the centuries; it was no different in the time of Jesus. 

I don’t know what you picture when you hear “idol-worship.”  I think for many people we might have an image of a person in a hut bowing down before an object of wood or stone.  While this may represent some forms of idol-worship, to limit idol-worship to this picture is a very simple characterization.  It is a characterization that can enable us to think, “I’m glad I don’t live in that irrational world.”

Expressions of idol-worship are multi-faceted, but ultimately the purpose of idol-worship is the gaining of favor through submissive action.  Idol-worship involves the giving of something so that the participant might get something.  The nature of worship is intentionally setting something as the most important thing in a person’s life.  We all have our idols and by virtue of our sinful nature we often allow these idols to ascend to higher and higher positions in our lives in hopes of delivering on some promise, or even for the purpose of making a statement to those around us about our fervor or dedication.  

Two of Jesus’ disciples had ambitions of self-exaltation.  James and John wanted to be the most important people in Jesus’ kingdom.  Jesus told them if you want to be the greatest be a servant.  Peter boasted of his dedication, specifically that even if all the disciples ran from persecution he would not.  The claim was one of pride in his strength.  Jesus told Peter, tonight you are going to deny me three times. 

We all have our idols, and many of these idols look good and are even considered acceptable and reasonable to our peers. This creates a conflict as the whims of society change from one generation to the next.  The question, “who do you say that I am?” is meant to set the Christian’s eyes upon Jesus, and if we say, “you are the Son of God,” or “you are Lord,” we are meant to shift our goals from the things of the world to the things of God.  Throughout history it has been and is true that just because something is acceptable, or seems to offer promise, that does not mean it is good.  And anything that we put above our relationship to Christ, no matter how good is seems or looks, is not good.  True then and true today.

Jesus asks, “who do you say that I am?”  Our response to this question will impact how we live.  It will impact our peace.  It will impact how we view death.  It should impact how we prioritize activities in our lives.

In the prophet Isaiah’s day, most of the people of God were chasing after things that promised great rewards, but did not deliver on them.  They chased after things that caused them to neglect God because they simply did not have time left for God.  Rather than giving the first-fruits of time, talent, and treasure, God was given whatever was left over.  Chasing these false idols resulted in great harm to individuals and families.  God, speaking through the prophet, questions His people:  “Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?”

The past few generations of parents have been facing in greater and greater measure demands for time, travel, and treasure for sanctioned activities of all kinds that promise, “If you do this your child will be happy and balanced.”  Has this happened?  No!  And studies are showing again and again, “No!”  The response to this has not been to cut back and simplify, instead the theory seems to be we will add even more.  It seems that for many, all of these expectations are, as Solomon said, “a chasing after the wind.”  Ecc 1:14

Those of you who are presently entrusted with the care of children, I would encourage you to consider the definition of the term “parenting.”  Merriam-Webster uses this definition: “the process of taking care of children until they are old enough to take care of themselves.”  They are your charge and you don’t have to give up your rights wholesale to any coach, team, leader, or club.  I can’t imagine any high-school leader in the 1970’s standing before a group of parents saying, “By the way, over the next three months I am claiming ten weekends, and for at least five of those you will be driving to either: Minot, Bismarck, Grand Forks, or Fargo.” 

I don’t know when parents gave up their rights….  Maybe they didn’t.  Maybe this is all good stuff, but that is not what any studies show.  Also, that is not what we are seeing in the lives of young adults who come out of this temporary world of unsustainable activity with all sorts of different expectations from those around them to cater to them. 

I am not saying that this is wrong, but I am suggesting that if you go down that trail, make it your choice, and count the cost.

I encourage all of us to prayerfully consider the activities, choices, and sacrifices that we are making in light of what we consider to be important and lasting.  The one who asks, “who do you say that I am?” is also the one who said, “take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”  Matt. 11:29 Praise God!  What a wonderful promise from Our Redeemer!  And He has been delivering on this promise throughout the generations for those who abide in Him.

Peace to you in Christ,

Pastor Steve Lundblom

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Sacred Parenting Class https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/sacred-parenting-class https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/sacred-parenting-class#comments Thu, 24 Aug 2017 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.orlcwilliston.org/blog/post/sacred-parenting-class Sacred Parenting

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Sacred Parenting

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