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"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday today and forever" Hebrews 13:8
If you've been to any Foursquare church you will see this verse declared somewhere. I have seen it in many countries and languages and it's a constant reminder of who God is and what He is doing. At any moment of time you may ask the question what is God doing? The answer is always the same he is accomplishing His plan. Sometimes we forget that the bible is a narrative. A story of redemption. It's a story of how God sent his son Jesus into the world to save people to himself. People who are rebellious and sinful towards Him. This story is much bigger than just our daily struggle with sin. Our biggest problem is we seek our identity outside the story of redemption. From the call to Abraham, victories in the promise land, the lives of David, Solomon, Isaiah, John the Baptist, and in your life, God has been at work accomplishing His plan. "For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised."( 2 Cor 5:14-15) Only one thing is strong enough to overpower a stormy life. It's what God has promised to do through Jesus Christ. This life is here is a slight, momentary affliction preparing for us, an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison (2 Cor 4:17)
Stand firm today that God is at work calling you and others to himself. His plan and love for you never changes, He is the same yesterday today and forever. Pray for the young adults as we head up to Lake Mead today for a retreat.
In Him,
Pastor Joe
Friday, July 16, 2010
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Is. 22-24; Heb. 12;
Heb 12:2
2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
When I read this I always am reminded of the fact that the thing that took Jesus to the cross was the love of me. I can barely get my children to bring me a drink of water for the love of me. But the King of the universe, “the author and perfecter of our faith” was willing to go to the cross for me, and He calls it “the joy set before him” Me, you and I are the joy set before Him. Just think of that. We can’t even get our dog to listen and yet we are the joy set before the king of the universe. That means two things to me, first it means I do not fully realize the power and position God puts me in, if I did life would be a whole lot simpler and holy. My daily walk would look a lot more like Jesus. Second it says I do not fully except how much I mean to Him and just how much He loves me. Sometimes I get glimpses of that love by how much my grandchildren bring me joy by just being with them. Other times I fall so short of understanding that kind of love. So today I chose to just except it and claim as the writer of Hebrews does in the last verse of this chapter Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe,
May God bless you and keep you in His love, as His joy, as we declare together “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe”,
Pastor Jack
Next reading Is.25-28; Heb13;
2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
When I read this I always am reminded of the fact that the thing that took Jesus to the cross was the love of me. I can barely get my children to bring me a drink of water for the love of me. But the King of the universe, “the author and perfecter of our faith” was willing to go to the cross for me, and He calls it “the joy set before him” Me, you and I are the joy set before Him. Just think of that. We can’t even get our dog to listen and yet we are the joy set before the king of the universe. That means two things to me, first it means I do not fully realize the power and position God puts me in, if I did life would be a whole lot simpler and holy. My daily walk would look a lot more like Jesus. Second it says I do not fully except how much I mean to Him and just how much He loves me. Sometimes I get glimpses of that love by how much my grandchildren bring me joy by just being with them. Other times I fall so short of understanding that kind of love. So today I chose to just except it and claim as the writer of Hebrews does in the last verse of this chapter Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe,
May God bless you and keep you in His love, as His joy, as we declare together “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe”,
Pastor Jack
Next reading Is.25-28; Heb13;
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Isaiah 19-21; Hebrews 11
Hebrews 11
Temporary Housing
This portion of scripture is one of the most impressive declarations of those who have walked ‘by faith’ under circumstances that are beyond our compression. These were everyday people who have shown us again the truth about God’s love and provision. These ‘heroes of faith’ only received a partial fulfillment of what God had promised and these elders maintained their faith that God would do what He said. Because of their close relationship with God, they would not feel at home in earthly surroundings. They looked for something better.
“All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. They admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth.” Hebrews 11:13
You may have heard the statement that some Christians are “so heavenly minded, they are no earthly good.” Although meant to be a rebuke or accusation against the believer, I am not so sure if it is a huge compliment. Oh, to be even more heavenly minded and prayerfully determined!
Consider the words of this hymn with me; “This world is not my home I'm just passing through. My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue. The angels beckon me from Heaven's open door and I can't feel at home in this world anymore.”
What a gentle reminder that we are foreigners in this world and not to hold on so tightly those things that are so very temporary. Let us pour our energy into areas that have eternal purposes and grab hold of the legacy shared by others to “walk by faith and not by sight.” Let us believe and pray for those wayward children to return to the Lord and that deliverance will happen to those who have been in bondage! Let us hold fast to the truth, that salvation is for all who call on His name.
God is not done and we are His people who walk by faith!
“And without faith it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:6
Be Blessed,
Pastor Kim
Next Reading: Isaiah 22-24; Hebrews 12
Temporary Housing
This portion of scripture is one of the most impressive declarations of those who have walked ‘by faith’ under circumstances that are beyond our compression. These were everyday people who have shown us again the truth about God’s love and provision. These ‘heroes of faith’ only received a partial fulfillment of what God had promised and these elders maintained their faith that God would do what He said. Because of their close relationship with God, they would not feel at home in earthly surroundings. They looked for something better.
“All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. They admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth.” Hebrews 11:13
You may have heard the statement that some Christians are “so heavenly minded, they are no earthly good.” Although meant to be a rebuke or accusation against the believer, I am not so sure if it is a huge compliment. Oh, to be even more heavenly minded and prayerfully determined!
Consider the words of this hymn with me; “This world is not my home I'm just passing through. My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue. The angels beckon me from Heaven's open door and I can't feel at home in this world anymore.”
What a gentle reminder that we are foreigners in this world and not to hold on so tightly those things that are so very temporary. Let us pour our energy into areas that have eternal purposes and grab hold of the legacy shared by others to “walk by faith and not by sight.” Let us believe and pray for those wayward children to return to the Lord and that deliverance will happen to those who have been in bondage! Let us hold fast to the truth, that salvation is for all who call on His name.
God is not done and we are His people who walk by faith!
“And without faith it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:6
Be Blessed,
Pastor Kim
Next Reading: Isaiah 22-24; Hebrews 12
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Isaiah 15-18; Hebrews 10
"For yet a little while, and He who is coming will come and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith; but if anyone draws back, my soul has no pleasure in him. But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul." Hebrews 10:37-39
Today we are comforted by the promise that someone is coming for us. Not just anyone, but the Lord of Lords is coming for us. We haven't been abandoned to our own luck or fate as some might believe. We are in process under the watchful eye of our Creator and Savior who loves us and will arrive at the perfect time, not one second to soon nor one second too late. The amount of time that still needs to pass before His return is not 'lateness', as others might perceive, but rather the completion of an excellent timeframe designed by the Master designer who will carry out His perfect plan, regardless of who would like to stop Him.
What should we do in the meantime, especially those of us who have been declared just, by the rightesousness imparted to us by God? LIVE by FAITH! That is the answer we see in todays reading. We must LIVE, not just survive, but LIVE. Take advantage of every moment you have left, making sure your priorities are correct and Live for the glory of God. Don't waste time, invest your time in that which is valuable. If you lack wisdom in this, ask your Lord and Savior and He will direct your paths.
The life we live must be lived in FAITH. In other words we should live our life knowing that GOD is who He says He is and is more than capable of doing what He said He will do. We don't walk blindly, no not at all. We walk with complete assurance, confidence, and trust, not in oursleves but in the Lord and what He has promised. He has never let us down nor will He ever betray His word. Learn His word, Love His word, and Live His word!
Once you've encountered the true and living God in such a personal way as the one required for a life of Faith, why would you ever turn back? I believe you won't, because we are not of those who draw back, NO not us, we will never draw back. We are of THOSE, yes THOSE who should be feared by the enemy of our souls, feared by the ungodly who have rejected salvation and choose to fight against righteousness, because WE are part of the armies of God, WE belong to the Lord and are guaranteed VICTORY in every sense of the Word.
Hear todays battle cry... Learn His Word, Love His Word, Live His Word!
Following Jesus Christ,
Pastor Juan
Next Reading: Isaiah 19-21; Hebrews 11
Today we are comforted by the promise that someone is coming for us. Not just anyone, but the Lord of Lords is coming for us. We haven't been abandoned to our own luck or fate as some might believe. We are in process under the watchful eye of our Creator and Savior who loves us and will arrive at the perfect time, not one second to soon nor one second too late. The amount of time that still needs to pass before His return is not 'lateness', as others might perceive, but rather the completion of an excellent timeframe designed by the Master designer who will carry out His perfect plan, regardless of who would like to stop Him.
What should we do in the meantime, especially those of us who have been declared just, by the rightesousness imparted to us by God? LIVE by FAITH! That is the answer we see in todays reading. We must LIVE, not just survive, but LIVE. Take advantage of every moment you have left, making sure your priorities are correct and Live for the glory of God. Don't waste time, invest your time in that which is valuable. If you lack wisdom in this, ask your Lord and Savior and He will direct your paths.
The life we live must be lived in FAITH. In other words we should live our life knowing that GOD is who He says He is and is more than capable of doing what He said He will do. We don't walk blindly, no not at all. We walk with complete assurance, confidence, and trust, not in oursleves but in the Lord and what He has promised. He has never let us down nor will He ever betray His word. Learn His word, Love His word, and Live His word!
Once you've encountered the true and living God in such a personal way as the one required for a life of Faith, why would you ever turn back? I believe you won't, because we are not of those who draw back, NO not us, we will never draw back. We are of THOSE, yes THOSE who should be feared by the enemy of our souls, feared by the ungodly who have rejected salvation and choose to fight against righteousness, because WE are part of the armies of God, WE belong to the Lord and are guaranteed VICTORY in every sense of the Word.
Hear todays battle cry... Learn His Word, Love His Word, Live His Word!
Following Jesus Christ,
Pastor Juan
Next Reading: Isaiah 19-21; Hebrews 11
Monday, July 12, 2010
Praise the Lord
Today’s Reading: Isaiah 11-14; Hebrews 9
“And in that day shall ye say, Praise the LORD…” Isaiah 12:4I
There is coming a day when we will truly see Jesus coming again. This portion of scripture, Isaiah is prophesying of the time when the children of Israel will as well see this day and they will understand and know Jesus as the Messiah. Every eye will recognize the Lord as He reigns finally over the earth. His Kingdom will come and His will is going to be done on earth as it is in heaven. When Jesus returns and sets Himself as the King over the earth it will be a glorious, glorious day…and we will all proclaim “Praise the Lord”. We will enter in to this glorious new age, when we see the world as God wants it to be. All things will be in order and we will dwell together in love and peace with complete unity. The prophet wrote, “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; He is also become my salvation.” (Isa. 12:2) Do you remember the day you received Jesus as your Savior? Do you remember the day that you put your trust in Him and He became your strength and your song? Take some time to reflect on the day that you were born again…thank God for the gift of His Son Jesus, our salvation. And if you have never asked Jesus to be your Savior, today you can receive the gift of salvation, just simply pray, "Jesus, forgive me of my sins and make me one of your children. I invite you in to my life and ask you to be my Savior and Lord." Amen “Thank you Lord for Your Kingdom rule and reign in our lives here on earth and thank you Lord, for the day that You will come and we will see You in all of Your glory and we will all say…”Praise the Lord!” Amen
Blessings in Christ Jesus, Carol
Next Reading: Isaiah 15-18; Hebrews 10
“And in that day shall ye say, Praise the LORD…” Isaiah 12:4I
There is coming a day when we will truly see Jesus coming again. This portion of scripture, Isaiah is prophesying of the time when the children of Israel will as well see this day and they will understand and know Jesus as the Messiah. Every eye will recognize the Lord as He reigns finally over the earth. His Kingdom will come and His will is going to be done on earth as it is in heaven. When Jesus returns and sets Himself as the King over the earth it will be a glorious, glorious day…and we will all proclaim “Praise the Lord”. We will enter in to this glorious new age, when we see the world as God wants it to be. All things will be in order and we will dwell together in love and peace with complete unity. The prophet wrote, “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; He is also become my salvation.” (Isa. 12:2) Do you remember the day you received Jesus as your Savior? Do you remember the day that you put your trust in Him and He became your strength and your song? Take some time to reflect on the day that you were born again…thank God for the gift of His Son Jesus, our salvation. And if you have never asked Jesus to be your Savior, today you can receive the gift of salvation, just simply pray, "Jesus, forgive me of my sins and make me one of your children. I invite you in to my life and ask you to be my Savior and Lord." Amen “Thank you Lord for Your Kingdom rule and reign in our lives here on earth and thank you Lord, for the day that You will come and we will see You in all of Your glory and we will all say…”Praise the Lord!” Amen
Blessings in Christ Jesus, Carol
Next Reading: Isaiah 15-18; Hebrews 10
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Isa 8-10; Heb 8;
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.
I always found it interesting that God promised this in the middle of His anger at a people that had turned against Him so many times even they could not remember how many times it was. With this scripture I am reminded it is because He is God. Because, He is love. Because He is faithful that H
e fulfills His promises no matter what. I Am on vacation and I just had a conversation with my granddaughter (she is 4) on the phone. She said “Papa why are you not at church”. I said “I am on vacation so I am not going to church tonight”. She said “Why, God is not on vacation”. Even when I am on vacation I am Glad God is never on vacation from me or you. Our God is always faithful and ready to take care of me and you. Well the truth is tonight my granddaughter is at church and I am on vacation and God is still watching over both of us and you too. So tonight I just praise God for His faithfulness. I am thankful He is watching over her and you (me to) while I am on vacation.
May God bless you and Keep you in the knowledge of His son the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. That He was faithful enough to give us, even in the midst of His anger, because of His great love.
Pastor Jack
Next reading Isa. 11-14; Heb. 9;
I always found it interesting that God promised this in the middle of His anger at a people that had turned against Him so many times even they could not remember how many times it was. With this scripture I am reminded it is because He is God. Because, He is love. Because He is faithful that H
e fulfills His promises no matter what. I Am on vacation and I just had a conversation with my granddaughter (she is 4) on the phone. She said “Papa why are you not at church”. I said “I am on vacation so I am not going to church tonight”. She said “Why, God is not on vacation”. Even when I am on vacation I am Glad God is never on vacation from me or you. Our God is always faithful and ready to take care of me and you. Well the truth is tonight my granddaughter is at church and I am on vacation and God is still watching over both of us and you too. So tonight I just praise God for His faithfulness. I am thankful He is watching over her and you (me to) while I am on vacation.
May God bless you and Keep you in the knowledge of His son the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. That He was faithful enough to give us, even in the midst of His anger, because of His great love.
Pastor Jack
Next reading Isa. 11-14; Heb. 9;
Friday, July 9, 2010
Micah 1-2; Hebrews 6
"For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward his name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister." Hebrews 6:10
Chapter 6 of Hebrews is really a an encouragement for the new believers to press on and to continue to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises God has for them. (Heb 6:12) What strikes me in this passage is not only are these early believers encouraged to not to become sluggish but, they had already had a reputation of being a people who have shown love by ministering to the saints and known for being a people who honor the Lord. Let that be said of us, and people of The Cornerstone. Today is a great day to evaluate my reputation. When people think of us to do they see a people who minister to the Lord by ministering to others? What are you known for? Are you the person with the quick temper or is critical of everyone else; or are you the one who seems to show Christ love. Scriptures are clear that they will know we are Christians by our love. I have a Cornerstone Church sticker on my car and it constantly reminds me that as I drive around people are watching. I am thoughtful of what people may think about me being a Christian as I cut them off. Now, that is a simple illustration but, in all honesty the church has suffered because of the reputation and actions of people who call themselves Christian. I know of other religious leaders who have said, if Christians acted like a Christian according to the scriptures everyone would be a Christian or at least want to be one. There some truth to that. So today realize your actions and reputation is critical in the advancing of the Kingdom of God.
Let's love on people today,
Pastor Joe
Chapter 6 of Hebrews is really a an encouragement for the new believers to press on and to continue to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises God has for them. (Heb 6:12) What strikes me in this passage is not only are these early believers encouraged to not to become sluggish but, they had already had a reputation of being a people who have shown love by ministering to the saints and known for being a people who honor the Lord. Let that be said of us, and people of The Cornerstone. Today is a great day to evaluate my reputation. When people think of us to do they see a people who minister to the Lord by ministering to others? What are you known for? Are you the person with the quick temper or is critical of everyone else; or are you the one who seems to show Christ love. Scriptures are clear that they will know we are Christians by our love. I have a Cornerstone Church sticker on my car and it constantly reminds me that as I drive around people are watching. I am thoughtful of what people may think about me being a Christian as I cut them off. Now, that is a simple illustration but, in all honesty the church has suffered because of the reputation and actions of people who call themselves Christian. I know of other religious leaders who have said, if Christians acted like a Christian according to the scriptures everyone would be a Christian or at least want to be one. There some truth to that. So today realize your actions and reputation is critical in the advancing of the Kingdom of God.
Let's love on people today,
Pastor Joe
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