Courage Today

Seeking the City

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:00:00 +0000

“We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat. For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the holy places by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp. So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come. (Heb 13:10-14 ESV)

Worship is a Christian tradition that stretches all the way back to Eden. Even after the Fall and rejection from God’s Garden, Adam’s family continually offered sacrifices of worship to God at the garden’s entrance (Genesis 4:3-4).

Then as time continued and mankind multiplied across the globe, developing civilization and nations, God chose one family to be his covenant people. To these he prescribed certain rituals and practices of worship. But these commands and laws only pointed toward God’s own sacrifice for mankind’s sin (Romans 15:4; Galatians 3:24).

And finally, according to the Divine pattern laid out in the Jewish worship rituals, Jesus “suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood.” Now, we are exhorted – really commanded – by Scripture to truly worship God by going to Christ, receiving his sacrifice and reproach.

The sacrifice and reproach we endure here is nothing compared to his on our behalf. The great Apostle Paul wrote that our sufferings are really “light afflictions” and momentary (2 Corinthians 4:17). In addition, our sufferings are no comparison to the glory they produce for us.

Our “fiery trials” may seem more difficult than ever, but the Apostle Peter wrote that we should not think something strange was occurring (1 Peter 4:12). Maybe they shouldn’t be common occurrences either, but when they do occur we can “rejoice to be in fellowship with Christ’s sufferings.” Note this attitude expressed by the Apostles (Acts 5:41).

Now remember, we do not seek sufferings and persecutions. Christianity is not about how much we can suffer for Christ. Rather, sometimes by fire, our faith is tried and this is a natural result of truly following Christ. So we do not allow the possibility of suffering for Christ to make us give up. Instead, we continue faithful despite such trials since there is no “lasting city” here. We continue faithful to Christ in search of God’s eternal city.

Dear Father, thank you for that eternal glory we have in Christ Jesus. Strengthen our resolve and hope. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and courageous today in your resolve and hope,

Following the Mystery

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:53:00 +0000

"Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are in earth; even in him: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ." (Ephesians 1:8-12 KJV)

My daughter, April and I recently went to see the new Sherlock Holmes movie. She had been anticipating its release since the Fall of 2011. Almost every week of November and December, April would remind me "Holmes is coming" and ask if I was excited yet. I was only excited about having a special "father-daughter" visit with my daughter.

April is a professional librarian and an avid reader, as well as an aficionado of Hollywood's output. She warned me in advance, "Dad, there may be points in this movie where we won't understand the action and how it ties in to the plot line, but we'll get it as the movie progresses. It will be interesting to see how they develop this second movie in the 'modern' Holmes series."

Well, as a Holmes fan, I must admit the movie was excellent entertainment, and true to April's prediction, there were some confusing moments. It was fun to see the mystery unfold on the big screen with monstrous sound as we ate popcorn and drank Dr. Pepper. Without fear, we sat through the entire movie with no doubt that, despite what we saw on the screen, Sherlock Holmes would solve the mystery in the end.

Thinking of this event reminds me of how our Lord sometimes works with us. He doesn't always let us know exactly what he is doing. He keeps the mystery alive and asks us to trust him. We may even wonder if he knows what he is doing. Yet, we are certain that he has "made known unto us the mystery of his will," so we keep moving forward.

And of course, if we can trust a movie producer to move the plot successfully to a proper conclusion, can we not also trust that our God will conclude all mysteries for our benefit? "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28 KJV).

Dear Father, thank you for making your will known unto us. Empower us to obey and trust you as you lead us forward. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and of a good courage today following the mystery,

The Hill of God

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:38:00 +0000

"I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills; from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth." (Psalm 121:1-2 KJV)

Security and protection is a multi-billion dollar industry. It is amazing to me when Googling "security industry" that nearly every resulting entry relates to computers and the internet. What about my home? What about my family? What about my person? What about my soul? And my career, etc, etc.

We all want the assurance of protection from all harm and danger. Yet, the economy goes south with no concern for us. Our health slips away slowly but definitely. The value of our stuff declines weekly, perhaps daily. For all intents and purposes there is no security or protection in this world. If one continues down this natural way of thinking, he/she will soon be depressed to despair.

Yet, in the midst of our musings we search this world's hills, wondering where help can be found. Then, like the Psalmist, we are reminded of God's promise: "I will never leave you nor forsake you." The one who watches over us does not sleep. The one who "keeps" us does not permit our feet to lose a solid foundation. What a mighty God we serve!

This is why we look toward his hill. It is why we expect his help in our dire straits. On our behalf, God is always awake and working for us. This world's security may fail us but his never will! The security systems of this world may go offline, leaving us vulnerable, but our God never sleeps nor leaves us vulnerable.

He protects us all day and all night 24/7/365. He preserves us from all evil! He preserves us as we go in and out about our lives. And he will continue to do so from now throughout all eternity. What a loving God we serve!

Dear Father, thank you for your security and protection. Enable us to look unto your hills and know that your help is on its way. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and courageous today looking unto the hill of God,

Love Strong and Courageous

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:31:00 +0000

" This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you." (John 15:12-14 KJV)

There are no perfect synonyms for love. It has many aspects, many facets and many ways of expressing it. Yet, love is that glorious element which keeps our lives balanced and moving. In the steam plant of our circumstances, love is the energy that keeps us going and going and . . .

Love. The expression of the inexpressible.
Love. The force behind every purpose.
Love. The emotion that conquers all others.
Love. The action that proves beyond all doubt.
Love. The word that claims what no other can.
Love. The motivator for obedience.
Love. The boundless, the glorious, overflowing sufficiency for every sin.

Love. How do you know you do? How many times have you expressed it? How many times have you failed to express it? From our perspective, we never get enough love. Regardless of how much we get, our reservoir seems always near empty. It seems to be used up quicker than we can be filled.

Love gives meaning to our otherwise meaningless lives. Love produces beauty in us and our world. Love is creative and transforms people. Love is a catalyst of change and affects every person and thing it touches.

This many splendored thing called love issues forth from our Creator. It is best expressed on the Cross of Calvary. And we who claim to love Christ are instructed - nay, commanded - to express ours to one another.

Songwriters William R. Newell and D. B. Towner expressed it so well:
"O the love that drew salvation's plan! O the grace that brought it down to man! O the mighty gulf that God did span at Calvary!"

Love. The Divine message from heaven to earth, dispelling all doubt and fear, bringing hope and cheer.

Dear Father, we are so grateful for your love, though our thanks seems so meager by comparison. Empower us to truly love you in return and show our love to others. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and courageous today with your love,

The Excellence of God's Glory

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:22:00 +0000

"O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens." (Psalm 8:1 KJV)

Have you ever thought about Antarctica? I must confess that it is not often in my thoughts. That isn't necessarily a bad thing. It’s just that in most mission-oriented promotions you won't hear a challenge to go to Antarctica.

We normally - if ever - think of this continent as the bottom of the globe. It is the fifth largest land mass of this planet. God created it with some amazing features. It has less earthquakes than other continents. Its desert is drier than other deserts of the world. Yet, Antarctica has seventy per cent of the world's water. And life consists of only penguins, native birds and marine life, and except for researchers and scientists there are no human beings. One might even wonder whether God can see it from his throne above. It certainly seems ignored.

No one owns Antarctica. And very few wealthy tourists go there. The environmental conditions are harsh and forbidding to normal living conditions. There isn't much attraction to this place where war does not exist, the environment is protected and research is the priority.

But God is there. And he sees the bottom continent too. Yes, I remind myself that God sees everything. And I am confident that "he's got the whole world in his hands." But of course, I am not concerned with the whole world, just my tiny portion of it. According to the Bible, God is also concerned about the little details of my individual circumstances.

What a great God we serve! How marvelous is his mercy and grace! He provides me with strength . . . emotional, psychological, physical and spiritual. No power on this planet or in the universe is stronger than him and I am on his team. Like the psalmist, I still wonder that he has even thought of us humans much less blessed us so richly.

"O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!"

Dear Father, thank you for your consideration of our circumstances. Enable us to consider your glory and put our trust in your grace. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be courageous today noting God's glory and grace,

Strength In the Lord

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:48:00 +0000

"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." (Ephesians 6:10 KJV)

For the past month, one of the members of our church has suffered with vertigo problems. She gets dizzy without even trying. Since she was having trouble sitting and standing, her husband took her to see a physician. The doctor prescribed medication and 48 hours of continual laying on one side. He claims it will re-calibrate the inner ear mechanism.

Well, life can be that way too. The "unexpected" is always just around the corner waiting to knock us off balance. It will almost always upset the equilibrium of our routine life. Jobs are eliminated or illness or tragedy can certainly disturbing news. And if it is an attack of the devil, our spiritual balance is affected.

In every case, however, our normal routine is upset and we get hammered emotionally. In a real sense, we wonder if we can sit or stand upright. And we search for a way to re-calibrate our lives. "Where could I go? O where could I go seeking a refuge for my soul."

It is in times like these that God becomes dear to us, our relationship with Christ so precious. In our instability, he is the answer. He walks with us and talks with us and he reassures us that we are his children. In turning to him for help, we find that his spiritual resources are sufficient for our every need.

Paul instructs us to keep up our courage and be strong. In this world, life has its ups and owns but God's strength lifts us up. There is no weapon of this world that can defeat us when God walks with us. The confidence of his abiding presence gives peace and courage beyond human understanding. He is our everything, so we can face anything with him by our side.

Dear Father, thank you for providing strength and courage to your children. Grant that we may be strong and courageous in all we do today. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be courageous and strong in the Lord today,

Pleasing God

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 20:32:00 +0000

"For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe." (1Corinthians 1:19-21 KJV)

There we were in the fifth row from the back wall, in the Chapel's balcony, but we were inside. The Chapel was packed literally from the pulpit to the back wall. There was no more room in the balcony and the foyer was "standing-room-only."

It was the annual preaching lecture series and dynamic preachers from across the South were in attendance. Preachers from every culture and tradition sat in rapt attention as renowned expository pulpiteer, Dr. Haddon Robinson challenged us with his message, Every Victory Comes From A Grave.

Dr. Robinson's basic thesis was that we must die to self and the world's influences in order to gain the victory that Christ wants us to enjoy. I have never forgotten that sermon. It was a powerful and memorable challenge. Over the years I have reviewed this sermon and thought about it carefully.

On Sunday mornings, like many folks, I want to turn over and go back to sleep. It seems that Sunday morning sleep is the best there is! Of course, by the first greeting and the first chorus , I don't regret going church and worship service. My tiredness is replaced by the joy and strength of the Lord. My grumbling spirit is transformed by heartfelt praise. My dragging feet are renewed with the spring of excitement.

And the anointing for the morning sermon -- the victory of preaching -- arose from the grave of preparation. O what death the preacher suffers! The humiliation of having to study. The dependence through prayer and fasting. The continual dying as one waits for God to bring life to the message he gives for his people.

Dear Father, thank you for your wisdom and the victory that goes with it. Empower me to immerse myself in the grave of Christ's victory. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and of good courage today and please our Lord,

Growing Abandoning Trusting

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 16:57:00 +0000

"Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." (1Peter 5:5-7 KJV)

My grandson, Grant occasionally wants to sit in a toy chair or ride on a toy skateboard. He always ends up on the floor with a question on his face as to what happened. Why didn't the toy do what it was supposed to do? At three years old, he is learning that toys are too small for him to actually use.

Do you remember your children and grandchildren doing such antics? We adults smile at them because we find their misperceptions to be amusing. As they grow and mature, their understanding broadens and they discover that their perspective is narrow.

And as adults, we discover that we still experience a lack of perspective from time to time. When others prick our pride, our reaction indicates how out of proportion our perspective might be. A bad-humor, a few unfortunate words or a little insult can disappoint us as much as that toy skateboard does to a child.

We of course can evaluate the situation along with the issue and grasp quite easily that the issue isn't lack of understanding, but our ego and humility. Certainly all of us should "be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resists the proud, and gives grace to the humble."

Grant is already discovering that toy skateboards are designed for toys and not little boys. Lets hope that as we grow, we "May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God" (Ephesians 3:18-19 KJV).

And eventually we will learn to cast all our care on him, trusting that he truly cares for us.

Dear Father, thank you for giving us grace and exalting us in your time. Empower us to truly abandon our own cares and trust that you will care for us. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and of good courage today as you trust God's grace,

God's GPS

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 18:42:00 +0000

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV)

Anxiety. Every year I think I'll escape it and every year it returns. My energy level weakens as the stress increases. Planning. Goals. Tasks. Ministry opportunities. Youth disappearing. Waistline increasing. Finances decreasing. All these and a whole lot more on my plate. What's a man to do? How can I last to the end of the month, much less to December?

Maybe I need to give up coffee or drink more of it! Perhaps I need to eat less and exercise more or both. It's difficult to decide which is the best option. Of course, the core issue isn't my coffee intake or my exercise program. By now, you can readily see that the obstacle is my indecision. I need to overhaul and transform my attitude, perspective and thinking.

What I need is a global positioning system (GPS) that will guide me through the decision process which every man, father and leader faces every day all day long. I need help with which way to go at every turn in life. "Get in the left lane. Turn left in one quarter mile. Your destination is on the right." Wouldn't that be a great fringe benefit for fathers and pastors? It would be a marvelous benefit for all of us!

Well, the fact is I do have such a guide. First, there is my Bible. It is the roadmap I follow as I travel on this journey of life. The Bible will keep me on track as I accept and receive its directions, apply its wisdom and surrender to its author. And second, the Holy Spirit is my personal guide as my daily journey unfolds. He will give me specific guidance for every turn.

I'll always be anxious about life's decisions, but I am confidant that the Bible and the Holy Spirit will keep me on track and making the right decisions in life. The Holy Spirit will guide me safely to my destination.

Dear Father, thank you for your guidance system. Empower us to let your word and your spirit guide us. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and courageous in following the Lord's GPS,

Counting Us Faithful

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:50:00 +0000

"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus." (1Timothy 1:12-14 KJV)

Forty-two years ago today I preached my first sermon. No manuscript. No notes. Very little knowledge. Just my Bible and the Holy Spirit. My homiletics followed the example of older preachers around me. "Just open your Bible, then your mouth and let 'er fly."

I truly do not know how I gained the courage to stand in that pulpit that day. Somehow I did and preached from the text of John 3:16. It was the longest five minutes of my life. I do not remember what I said. There were neither three points nor a poem. Despite being a novice in the homiletical tradition, that sermon was and still is committed to God.

After my five minutes in the spotlight two important things occurred. First, at the invitation, one of my sisters walked down the aisle for prayer. Second, as everyone greeted me, an old preacher said, "I enjoyed your little sermonette sonny." And instead of recognizing that the repentant soul was evidence of God's anointing and confirmation, I allowed that old preacher's condescending analysis of my sermon to afflict me for years.

Over the years, I have preached several sermons and received an assortment of reviews from the audience. But I remember God's word is sharper than a double-edged sword (Heb. 4:12) and is inspired by God. It is "profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness." It is the adequate tool that equips the man of God for every good work of God (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

The preached Word of God is the power of God unto salvation. It offers healing and comfort. It offers forgiveness and mercy and peace. It brings hope. It provides an opportunity to hear God. And through it God touches the hearer at the deepest thought, the lowest hope, the weakest faith, and the greatest dream. And he encourages the hearer to believe in him -- accept his plan -- and pursue his purpose.

With Paul I say, "I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry." I want to serve Christ and his church by faithfully preaching the Word of God thereby unlocking doors for others to pass through. I can certainly improve and I yearn to be a better preacher and pastor.

Dear Father, thank you for calling me into the ministry. Anoint me to preach truth and understanding to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be courageous today by faithfully practicing your ministry,

Blessing God For His Blessings

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 20:47:00 +0000

"Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's." (Psalm 103:1-5 KJV)

Every time I read or hear the passage above, I am reminded of my deceased friend and mentor John Doroshuk. When I ministered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, he was my immediate supervisor and the Supervising Bishop over the Churches of God of Prophecy in Western Canada.

When I accepted a pastorate and moved my family there in 1982, John asked me to travel with him for a whirlwind trip of visiting our churches. On that trip John and I bonded. I was privileged to gain insight into this wonderful man of God. And I heard him pray several prayers that I would not have otherwise been privy to. It was his praying that impacted me the most. He wasn't necessarily longwinded in his prayers, but he knew how to start effectively.

John always started his prayers by reciting verses 1 and 2 above: "Bless the Lord O my soul and all that is within me bless his holy name. Bless the Lord O my soul and forget not all his benefits." He gave me an example that is precious and I will not forget. So many benefits for which God deserves my blessing. Yet, he deserves my praise (personal blessing) just for who he is. Bless his holy name!

Bless the Lord for who he is! Bless him for my wife, my children and my grandson. Bless the Lord and don't forget my job, my talents and my vacations. Bless him with all my heart for sisters, cousins, friends and colleagues. Bless the Lord for all his benefits including the five visitors at church and those who invited them. Bless him for the six days of the week I feel good and six projects to pursue. Bless the Lord O my soul for the seventh day he has prepared for my rest. Bless him for eight more things I might forget otherwise. Bless the Lord for nine trips on the road and travelling mercies all the way. Bless him for his holy commands and mercy and forgiveness and grace.

Everyday of 2012 could be a "count your blessings" day. Evaluating our lives. Considering and adjusting our attitudes. We track every other facet of our lives, why not track our soul's praise record? We have so much for which we should bless the Lord. There is forgiveness of sin, healing from illness, redemption from destruction, God's love, God's kindness, God's mercies, he gives us good things, and spiritually restores and renews our spirit among many other blessings. O yeah, soul bless his holy name!

Dear Father, we bless you for all your benefits to us. Empower us to always bless you with every particle of our being and to not forget any benefit. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Courageously bless God's holy name for his blessings on you,

A Year of Gratitude and Praise

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 17:09:00 +0000

"It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night, Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery; upon the harp with a solemn sound." (Psalm 92:1-3 KJV)

When we reminisce over all our past, survey our present and consider the prospects of our future, there is much for which we can be grateful. Think about the alternatives and gratitude should take over. What a wonderful year we have before us! If you haven't yet decided on a resolution, consider this one: thank and praise God every day.

You see, it is a good thing to give God praise and thanks for all his blessings and benefits. Despite the obstacles of this life -- the declining economy, emotional stress, relational problems, career stresses, etc -- God expresses his love to us each and every morning. After a restful night, he wakes us up. He provides air and sunshine. Sometimes he provides clouds and rains. And although our circumstances are individually unique, when we reflect on them we see the hand of God working for us. Thank God!

So if God expresses his love for us every morning shouldn't we express ours in return? What about his faithfulness every night? Throughout the day God has walked with us confronting the issues of our lives. Like a child, we can pray, "Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep . . ." He truly is our shepherd and makes us to lie down in green pastures. It would seem that our faithfulness to him should be a foregone conclusion.

And when we seriously contemplate these issues -- thanksgiving and singing his praises -- some melodies will be joyous with hand clapping and dancing feet. But there should also be some solemn melodies. Those melodies that reach down deep and move our spirits. Those melodies that stir our love for God and our loyalty to him in ways no other can.

Perhaps 2012 can be the year of gratitude and praise. Perhaps it might be the year of daily praise. Maybe it is a year for expressing our gratitude in ways that God will truly appreciate.

Dear Father, thank you for your love and faithfulness to us. May our songs of praise and thanksgiving rise up to you as a sweet fragrance of true worship. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be courageous today with your gratitude and praise to God,

Studying Scripture

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 17:18:00 +0000

"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." (2Timothy 2:15 NAS)

One of my favorite issues is the accurate interpretation of Scripture. I focus on this issue because over my lifetime, from a variety of pulpits, I have heard some horrendous things preached that had no scriptural foundation.

Now, I don't claim perfection in hermeneutics. I am sure that I have room for improvement as well as anyone. Yet, I love the blessed old book and insist that it has all the answers for mankind's problems and sin. I love preaching the truths that God has revealed to us about himself.

And I don't want to just preach broad generalizations either. I think a pastor is mandated to be as specific as possible and confident of his/her interpretation. The more exact we can be, the safer the sheep are from deceptions and heresies. In addition, accurately interpreted Scripture gives them confidence in God and assures them of an eternal home with him.

Now, as disciples of Christ, we cannot simply wait for Sunday and expect the pastor to teach us everything in the book. We would never live long enough to get it all. It is difficult, I know, as busy adults to set aside quiet study time and wait for the Holy Spirit to arrive. Yet, we need to hear God speak to us. We need the confidence of knowing that we have carefully thought through the issues in a passage. We need the confidence that comes from the Holy Spirit revealing truth to us.

If I want to grow and develop spiritually, I have to make the effort to discover for myself what God is saying to me. What is he challenging me to deal with in my life? We really ought to figure out this discipleship thing for ourselves. Of course, there is a point at which we need someone to help us. That is where the Church and the pastor comes in.

All of this brings me to this question: Am I interpreting Scripture for myself or just to preach it to others? Am I just giving directions instead of seeking direction? I listen to myself preach and sometimes it's more like I am giving prescriptions to others. So here's my New Year's resolution: Study the Bible for me . . . Interpret scripture for me . . . Preach to me.

Dear Father, thank you for your Word. Empower us to study the Scriptures for ourselves that we might hide it in our hearts and not sin against you. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be encouraged today in your study of Scripture,

God's Whisper

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 17:42:00 +0000

The LORD said, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by." Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. (1Kings 19:11-13 NIV)

The New Year has begun and we are almost to the end of the first week. Perhaps we are writing a list of resolutions or re-writing them. A few may even be reviewing and reducing the list. As we follow this time-worn tradition, we tick them off like purchases on a shopping list.

Sometimes the list is long. Lose weight. Read 2 books a month. Read the Bible from Genesis through Revelation. Go to bed early and get up earlier. Exercise everyday. Implement a regular prayer/fasting schedule. Spend quality time with the wife. Write a book this year. Then we feel so good about ourselves because we have resolutions.

But would it be wisdom to have a long list or a short one? What about one resolution that was definitely doable and would empower us to grow? Just a small change that would start us toward greater transformation. Awaken ten minutes earlier every morning to begin the day with the Lord. You see, one realistic commitment is better than a long list of promises that overwhelm us and gets abandoned.

In today's passage, I don't think Elijah had a long list of wishes to present to God, but he probably wanted more than a calm whisper from the Almighty. He had been used to God doing mighty things and showing himself in great ways (i.e., no rain for three years; fire from heaven, etc). But now he is in a cave on the mountain of God. Perhaps we should go to the mountain of God before we make our resolution list. Maybe we need to hear the calm whisper of God before creating a to-do list for 2012.

Just as it is the little foxes that destroy the vineyards (Sings of Solomon 2:15), it is also the small steps -- small achievements -- that empower us to grow into what God wants us to become. If we will be faithful in the small things, God will reveal himself in the big things (Matthew 25:21). Attitude and zeal may need to be surrendered to humility, because grandiose goals don't count unless they are achieved.

Dear Father, thank you for your calm whisper to us. Empower us with an humble spirit and attitude so that we may stay in the cave with you until you empower us to proceed. This pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Courageously listen for God's whisper,

Resolved

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:24:00 +0000

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 (KJV)

Resolutions are like noses and opinions, everyone has them. Yes, you have a resolution even if it is to not make any. What you resolve depends on your unique situation. What is it you want to achieve in 2012? What changes would you like to make in 2012?

Too many times we choose unrealistic goals and our resolutions are not pursued beyond January. In today’s passage, the great Apostle gives us three resolutions by which we should order our lives. Don’t worry about it. Pray about it. Give thanks to God.

Paul’s point? Make our requests to the one who is able to supply them. So, 2012 can be a year of presenting our needs to God, then patiently watching him supply them all. Usually, our resolutions concern a personal need. A mere mantra of positive affirmation isn't true presentation of need. And Paul's method isn't a license for laziness. God is not to be mocked by a welfare attitude.

Paul says, “Be careful for nothing.” He is not demanding an absence of concern. But, he is teaching us to present our worries to God. “By prayer and supplication.” Pray about the issues, which concern us. Supplication is an old worship term, which means to beg, plead, or implore in prayer. So, Paul says, plead with God to respond to your concerns. Nothing is to be withheld from God. Bring every issue of our lives before him in faith. And we know that “without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Heb. 11:6 KJV)

Finally, “with thanksgiving” shows us the proper attitude of presentation. When we present our concerns, issues, and needs before God, we must do so with a thankful heart and spirit. Thankful that he is concerned about us. Thankful that he allows us to present our needs. Thankful that he hears us. Thankful that he responds. Thankful that he turns our resolutions into achievement. Thankful that he gives us peace over it all.

Dear Father, thank you for this new year of 2012. Empower us with resolve to bring all our needs to you. Grant to us the peace that preserves our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. This I pray in his holy name. AMEN

Be courageous today in all your resolutions,

Christ Is Our Escort

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 19:13:00 +0000

"Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." (Joshua 1:9 KJV) [see also Matthew 20:28]

Once in a while, my wife Bobbie and I reminisce over the journey we have traveled in ministry. And as you may guess, sometimes we tear up over memories and other times we are thankful we made it through. We can tell you stories about every place we have served in ministry. And it is interesting that she and I do not always remember our experiences the same way. But we both agree that God was with us there.

After years of collecting such memories -- you should see our photo file -- we realize that we don't always remember the names of the faces in the photos. And we failed to record their names when the pictures were developed. You'd think that since we got our picture taken with them, surely we would know their names. At the time, we may have thought that we would never forget them, yet there they are unidentified in our photo file.

Upon reflection, it would have been really smart of me to have kept a better record, but what a chore that would have been. A small note here. Highlights there. A complete notebook for each congregation. But the rewards! Today I would have thirty plus years of significant data verifying friendships and work done for the Lord. Such a record would enable me to reminisce and review with clarity all the people and places and important milestones. Yes, I know that God keeps good records, but it would be good if I had kept a better one for myself. I would like to review his steps with me.

Now don't mistake these musings for "sour grapes." You see, I can search the record and tell you how many sermons I preached. I can find how many people received Christ in those churches. I can tell you the average attendance each month. I can identify the amount of my salary and expenses in each church. Yet, my private thoughts and reactions are scantily interspersed but inadequate. How God was dealing with me through those experiences didn't always get into my notes. My reflections at the time would be truly precious to me now, because without a doubt, God did send us and was with us!

It is never too late to begin recording your life and ministry for posterity. Well, perhaps the public will never be interested in our exploits. Maybe our memoirs will never be on the New York best seller list, but memories are always precious to the individual. Perhaps after we are gone, a family member will be inspired or strengthened by our experiences. Consider how you would appreciate such a memento of your deceased loved ones. To be able to read their thoughts and musings about their interests and the issues they faced. To see how God walked with them.

What is more important are the things you learn about yourself from your journal or diary. It tracks your transformation and growth. Think about how important a personal record is to you. It installs attention grabbers for what God is saying to you. It points to signposts of what God's will is for you. Important personal issues with dates, places and a brief summary of the circumstances reveal much to the discerning mind.

As I have demonstrated here, with age and time external events and data are forgotten unless they are recorded. Inner episodes of God at work reveal much when read and re-read now. Prayers answered. Results that were never foreseen. Life is a journey of detours, starts and stops, setbacks and victories. But life is also a mountain of glorious experiences in God's presence . . . a vista of fresh glimpses of him who send us and is always with us . . . just as he promised.

Dear Father, thank you for the accurate record you have of our entire lives. Enable us to keep a record of today and every day along this journey with you to the end that only you can see. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Take courage the Lord our God is with us everywhere we go,

Year End Thoughts

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 15:20:00 +0000

The following "thoughts" were sent to me by a friend.
Given the writer's permission to "pass it on if you think it has merit," I decided to share it with my readers because I do think it deserves a hearing. In fact, Americans everywhere should consider this writer's words carefully. Perhaps our whole system of freedoms may depend upon it.

Sylvester Smith, DMin.

The following was written by Ben Stein and recited by him on CBS Sunday Morning Commentary.

My confession:

I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, bejeweled trees, Christmas trees... I don't feel threatened.. I don't feel discriminated against.. That's what they are, Christmas trees.

It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, 'Merry Christmas' to me. I don't think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, I kind of like it. It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating this happy time of year. It doesn't bother me at all that there is a manger scene on display at a key intersection near my beach house in Malibu . If people want a creche, it's just as fine with me as is the Menorah a few hundred yards away.

I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew, and I don't think Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period. I have no idea where the concept came from, that America is an explicitly atheist country. I can't find it in the Constitution and I don't like it being shoved down my throat.

Or maybe I can put it another way: where did the idea come from that we should worship celebrities and we aren't allowed to worship God as we understand Him? I guess that's a sign that I'm getting old, too. But there are a lot of us who are wondering where these celebrities came from and where the America we knew went to.

In light of the many jokes we send to one another for a laugh, this is a little different: This is not intended to be a joke; it's not funny, it's intended to get you thinking.
In light of recent events... terrorists attack, school shootings, etc.. I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found a few years ago) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said OK. Then someone said you better not read the Bible in school. The Bible says thou shalt not kill; thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as yourself. And we said OK.

Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave, because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem (Dr. Spock's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he's talking about.. And we said okay..

Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their classmates, and themselves.

Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with 'WE REAP WHAT WE SOW.'

Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says. Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail and they spread like wildfire, but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing. Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school and workplace.

Are you laughing yet?

Funny how when you forward this message, you will not send it to many on your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they will think of you for sending it.

Funny how we can be more worried about what other people think of us than what God thinks of us.

Pass it on if you think it has merit.

If not, then just discard it... no one will know you did. But, if you discard this thought process, don't sit back and complain about what bad shape the world is in.

My Best Regards, Honestly and respectfully,

Ben Stein

Faithful To the End

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 16:30:00 +0000

"Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen." (Jude 1:24-25 KJV)

Here we are at the end of 2011. Perhaps we have not achieved all our goals. Perhaps we still have a way to go in spiritual maturity. Perhaps . . . Perhaps . . .

It is true that Scripture teaches us to stop practicing a sinful lifestyle and grow in the Lord. Yet, despite our best efforts, we are still limited in our ability to sanctify ourselves entirely. We are limited in spirit, soul, and body. We are limited in our ability to achieve a blameless life. We don’t seem able to even maintain the Christmas spirit into the new year, much less til Jesus comes.

We should neither be discouraged by this reality nor make it an excuse to stop doing our best. Instead, it should remind us of our dependence on Christ through the Holy Spirit. Our God who called us is also the One who is able to keep us from falling. After our best effort has ended, he continues to sanctify us. After we have gone the limit, he takes over and preserves our spirit, soul, and body through Calvary and the resurrection. He is faithful! He will make us faultless!

Just as the end of 2011 is near, so too is the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. We may not have achieved everything we wanted to achieve for him. We may not have grown as much as we wanted to. We may not have been as faithful as we should have been. We may not have received all the answers to our prayers. Let us give it all to him in the firm confidence that he is faithful and he will do in us everything he intended when he called us.

Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. Thank you for preserving us. Empower us to renew our commitment to your service. Enable us to be faithful to the end. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be courageous in your faithfulness,

Eternal Perspectives

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 13:51:00 +0000

"While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal." (2Corinthians 4:18-1 KJV)

Holidays come and go but troubles hang around. It seems that despite the joy and peace of Christmas tragedies occur. One only needs to look at the daily newspapers and media reports to know this awful truth.

But trouble on every side will not destroy our hope in Christmas's babe. Confusion from every corner will not bring despair. Persecution as we go out and as we come in will not erase our memory of Emmanuel. Abuse of any kind will not destroy our spirit, because we know that we have Christmas, Good Friday and Easter!

And the life of our Lord and Savior is expressed daily in our physical witness of his reality. We do not need empirical evidence because the just shall live by faith and we know -- are certain -- that he was born in that manger, died on that Cross, was buried in that grave and is resurrected by the power of God. Oh, yes we know that death is a reality for humanity, but life is at work in those who put their faith in the Son of God.

And we know that the Christ child grew up and was crucified but that God raised him from the dead on the third day. And since God resurrected Christ from his grave, he will also resurrect us by Christ from ours.

And speaking of our troubles and sorrows, such things are for our benefit, so that God's overflowing grace might be recognized and also bring glory to Christ's name. And because of God's grace, our faith is neither exhausted nor weakened, but renewed in strength each day. You see, we know that these earthly troubles are only "light afflictions" that actually results in huge eternal benefits and glory for us.

So while we observe the realities around us, we look for those "unseen" eternal benefits which were given to us at that first Christmas over in Bethlehem when our Lord and Savior was born.

Dear Father, thank you for the eternal benefits that Christ gives. Enable us to trust him despite the temporal world around us. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be courageous today and keep an eternal perspective,

Christmas Reflections

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 18:16:00 +0000

"But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart." (Luke 2:19 KJV)

From the highest throne and the greatest glory God descended to a lowly, stinking stable to be born in a human family. Why did he not choose Herod's palace? Consider that Herod was an ungodly, non-believing, power-hungry tyrant concerned about no one and nothing but maintaining his throne. He just wasn't the nurturing, fatherly type for raising children. Certainly not a good model. Besides, God's ways are not our ways.

So, God chose an humble carpenter from Nazareth of Galilee to be the guardian of his son. And on the night of his birth, a stable was the best Joseph could do for Mary and the baby. I remember my grandfather's barn and stables. They stunk of manure, even after mucking out the stalls. Rats and other slinking, filthy creatures could be found there. Spiders and cobwebs were commonplace. You had to watch where you walked. Big green flies were a constant pest, as well as blood-sucking horse flies. Despite the walls, air flowed through freely. In the summer it was great but in the winter, milking and feeding could be a harsh experience.

Despite the smells and pests, the grandchildren -- me and my cousins -- could be found there regularly playing "cowboys and Indians" or having a corn-cob battle. Sometimes we challenged each other to a dual of jumping off the roof, about twenty feet off the ground. Once in a while, we simply sat in the hay loft and bragged about what we were gonna be when we grew up. Despite its appearance and the smell, that old barn was grandpa's and therefore associated with grandpa.

So you might understand that I have both good and not-so-good memories about grandpa's barn. I wonder what memories the Lord might have had of that stable in Bethlehem. Good or bad? Of course, Luke doesn't relate the difficulties and harsh realities of that night in the stable. And twenty plus centuries of Christmas lore and pageantry have smothered the reality with a warm-and-fuzzy story of a newborn baby.

Did Joseph or Mary get any sleep that night? Did they have anything to wrap up with and keep them warm against the night air? Did they get a decent meal or any meal for that matter? Were there rats scurrying about? Was there enough hay to insure a comfortable sleep or even a bed for Mary? Of course, we will never know. We can only consider the probabilities surrounding the event.

But our God didn't need palaces or soft beds for his son. He simply need a willing man and woman to nurture his son in this world. He found those in Joseph and Mary. And with them, God created the greatest miracle and a marvelous memory in the most improbable setting. And despite it's harsh realities, we will forever associate it with God and his son. And that turns the sorrows and sadness into joy and gladness.

Dear Father, thank you for our Savior and Lord. Empower us to remember the story is about our savior and not the stable. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be courageous today as you reflect on the Savior,

Merry Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 14:36:00 +0000

"And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David): To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn." (Luke 2:4-7 KJV)

Here is the Gospel distilled in a baby's birth event. And we sing about it every year as the story is told one more time. A wonderful story! Marvelous love! Rejected at birth, God's son was laid in a manger because there was no room for him.

Probably the first Christmas carol you can remember hearing is Away in a Manger. Such a sweet song. It melts our hearts. It reveals the love of God. Pointing to the past, it tells of a baby being born in humble circumstances. And for the present, it reminds us that the baby in the manger is also our Eternal Priest. "Be near me Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay" is a prayer for the present and the future.

He may have been born in a stable and laid in a manger, but he isn't a baby anymore. He grew up and lived and died as our Lord and Savior. He is the One who was and is and is to come. Our Eternal King!

There are all sorts of confusing arguments about how this simple Christmas carol came to be. But despite it's complicated history, the song gives a simple, enduring message. God's love came to us. God's love is ours today. God's love will always surround us. That is the message we need today -- Christmas Day -- and every day.

Dear Father, thank you for your love and your Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Remember us today , O God, and let your love abound in our lives. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be courageous today and be merry in Christ,

Joy To the World

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 14:23:00 +0000

"Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise." (Psalm 98:4 KJV)

My favorite Christmas carol is Joy To the World. I love to sing this beautiful worship song. Usually I also sing the first verse of Amazing Grace to its tune. Try it, you might enjoy it too.

Joy To the World was created by three very gifted people over a span of one hundred years. It began with the now famous words written by Isaac Watts who was inspired by the message of Psalm 98. "Sing a new song unto the Lord" (1). God's works are marvelous! He revealed his salvation and righteousness (2). He did not forget his promises to Israel (3). Joy to the world! Shout it out! Shout it loud! (4)

Express your joy with every sort of musical instrument before your Lord and King (5-6). Even the earth can and should express its joy (7-8). Joy to the world because the Lord -- the Judge -- is coming with righteous judgment. And he will judge all people with fairness and equitable justice (9). It is easy to see what inspired Mr. Watts.

At about the time Watts wrote the words, composer George Frederick Handel was working on his famous Messiah. He began composing this famous musical after a night of prayer and completed all fifty-three of its numbers in twenty-three days.

Nearly a hundred years later, an American choir director, Lowell Mason adapted Handel's music to Watt's words, then named his arrangement Joy To the World. All about a baby born in a manger in 1st century Bethlehem. That baby became the one true joy for all people everywhere.

Like Isaac Watts, each of us ought to catch the Psalmist's inspiration for expressing our joy. When we do, the echo of joy will resound around the world. The more who join in, the more we will feel the joy in the air!

Dear Father, thank you for the joy the Christ-child brought. Empower us with the joy of Christmas that we might bring Christ's joy to our world. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be courageous today with joy to the world,

Share Peace and Goodwill

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:17:00 +0000

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." (Luke 2:14 KJV)

Peace and goodwill on earth is a tenuous thing. Some even think of it as an impossibility. Yet, both are available through the one who was born in the manger so many years ago. In those days there were no media to inform the world of this event. So, God sent his angels to proclaim it to some shepherds who, after they found the babe in the manger, published the news "which was told them concerning this child" (Luke 2:17 KJV).

It is interesting to me that God has always spread his Good News by first-hand, experiential, word-of-mouth advertising. In the Middle Ages, the Church began suspending bells from belfries to be rung as the announcement to the faithful that worship services were about to begin. Somewhere along the line chiming the Christmas carols became popular.

At a time when peace and goodwill was distinctly missing in America -- the Civil War -- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote his Christmas Day (1864). As the church bells rang out Christmas carols, Longfellow heard " wild and sweet the words repeat Of peace on earth, good will to men."

He thought of how "all Christendom Had rolled along the unbroken song Of peace on earth, good will to men." But he wrote, "in despair I bowed my head: 'There is no peace on earth,' I said, 'For hate is strong and mocks the song Of peace on earth, good will to men.'"

But to Longfellow the bells pealed the message even "more loud and deep: God is not dead, nor doth he sleep; The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, With peace on earth, good will to men."

"Till, ringing singing, on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime,
Of peace on earth, good will to men!"

Dear Father, thank you for the peace and goodwill you give to each of us through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Inspire us to share it with those who are still searching for it. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be courageous today and share peace and goodwill on earth,

Follow the Star

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:12:00 +0000

"the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh." (Matthew 2:9-11 KJV) [The Wise Men's Witness -- Matthew 2:1-12]

Imagine that you had become an expert in a field of study and one day as you were reviewing your field a new phenomenon appeared, never before seen. Imagine it further, as this new phenomenon became clearer and focused, a new revelation flashed into your mind. What would you do? How would you react?

Would you start on a two-year journey to find the one that was revealed by the new phenomenon? That is what the magi from the East did. Experts in their field, they discovered a new phenomenon in the field of astronomy -- a star that was not there previously. And that star revealed a new king to them, one who would be prophet, priest and savior to the world. Their revelation would not let them rest until they had seen and worshipped the One whose star they had discovered.

While his birth didn't make headline news in Jerusalem or even Bethlehem, it was the pivotal event of all history. And a star appeared to those who were looking for his birth. It still amazes me that our Lord's birth was announced to the wise men of the East, probably about the time angels were serenading a group of shepherds on a hillside just outside Bethlehem.

As we sing the Christmas story this year, note that most of our carols begin with the angels' herald of the baby's birth, move to the shepherds finding him in a manger and tell about the wise men worshipping him. And all people -- believers and doubters -- are invited once again to bow before him in worship.

The angel of the Lord directed the shepherds to the new king. A star led the wise men to him. Christmas still points to who he is. The wise men did not question his identity, they simply fell down in worship. Wise men and women still worship him! "O come let us adore him, O come let us adore him. O come let us adore him, Christ the Lord."

Dear Father, thank you for our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Empower us to worship him all the days of our lives. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be courageous today and follow Christ - the star of all stars,

Hear God's Message

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Sylvester Smith) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 19:53:00 +0000

"And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." (Luke 2:9-12 KJV)

Songwriter Charles Wesley lived in a time when the general populace was more like Scrooge than Tiny Tim. People weren't particularly interested in Christmas or the child born on that day. The Puritans were actually against the idea of Christmas as a holiday. They believed Christmas should be treated like any other day of the year.

Charles Wesley, however, was blessed with a gift of hearing God's message. He wrote over 6500 hymns expressing the various aspects of God's message. One of those hymns was one Wesley called, "A Hymn for Christmas Day." Like many of his hymns, this one might have gotten lost, but a musician by the name of William H. Cummings noticed that Wesley's song seemed to fit the music of Felix Mendelssohn. Cummings matched Mendelssohn's music with Wesley's words and called the world's attention to Christmas with "Hark, The Herald Angels Sing."

One of the most beautiful of Christmas carols, Hark, the Herald Angels Sing reminds us to listen -- be attentive -- to the message of the angels who announced the birth of Christ to the shepherds in the fields outside of Bethlehem. When we give attention to their song, it is easy to join them in singing, "glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward all" (Luke 2:14).

The Christmas season is a time of reminding the world of God's love and hope. It is important time to listen closely because the worldly noise going on around makes it difficult to hear his message. If we don't listen carefully, we will miss the most important message ever given to anyone.

Dear Father, thank you for sending the angels to announce our Lord's birth. Remind us once again that Christmas is your message of love and hope to all people everywhere. Enable us to respond in faith and praise. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be courageous today by receiving God's gift of love and hope,