Choices
Many times in my life I have been confronted with choices. Not just the daily ones of where to go or what to eat or what to wear, but difficult choices. Ones that require me to stop and evaluate everything that I am and have dreams of becoming in the future. It is at times like this that I am reminded of a poem by Horatius Bonar.
Choose Thou For Me
Thy way, not mine, O Lord,
However dark it be!
Lead me by Thine own hand;
Choose out my path for me.
I dare not choose my lot:
I would not, if I might;
Choose Thou for me, my God,
So shall I walk aright...
The kingdom that I seek
Is Thine: so let the way
That leads to it be Thine,
Else I must surely stray.
Take Thou my cup, and it
With joy or sorrow fill,
As best to Thee may seem;
Choose Thou my good and ill.
Choose Thou for me my friends,
My sickness, or my health;
Choose Thou my cares for me
My poverty, or wealth.
Not mine, not mine the choice,
In things both great and small;
Be Thou my Guide, my Strength,
My Wisdom, and my all.
What would happen in your life if this was to become one of the guides for you? Would it change anything, or would it affirm the path that you are walking with God right now.
Take a moment and prayerfully consider what these words might mean to you today. Then please lift your heart and hands to God and offer Him all that you are.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will share a special witness together.
Showing posts with label Mid Week Epistole. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mid Week Epistole. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Mid Week Epistole
TUNES IN THE CHURCH
Are you one of the people who cannot carry a tune in the proverbial bucket? Many times I hear people say those words when asked if they would sing in the choir or during church. Well, I have good news for you.
Donald Hustad once wrote: “Somehow, about 40% of churchgoers seem to have picked up the idea that ‘singing in the church is for singers.’ The truth is that ‘singing is for believers.’ The relevant question is not, “Do you have a voice?” but “do you have a song?”
Do you know the difference between the two songs? Or to you, are they the same?
Loving Father, we know you do not so much listen to the voice of Your church as it sings as much as You listen to the heart. We thank You for our song. In Christ’s blessed name. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will read a journal entry from a servant of God who soared over the mountains.
Are you one of the people who cannot carry a tune in the proverbial bucket? Many times I hear people say those words when asked if they would sing in the choir or during church. Well, I have good news for you.
Donald Hustad once wrote: “Somehow, about 40% of churchgoers seem to have picked up the idea that ‘singing in the church is for singers.’ The truth is that ‘singing is for believers.’ The relevant question is not, “Do you have a voice?” but “do you have a song?”
Do you know the difference between the two songs? Or to you, are they the same?
Loving Father, we know you do not so much listen to the voice of Your church as it sings as much as You listen to the heart. We thank You for our song. In Christ’s blessed name. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will read a journal entry from a servant of God who soared over the mountains.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Mid Week Epistole by Jim Massey
WHICH ONE DO YOU TRY TO TAKE CARE OF?
Yesterday was Monday, the dreaded day of the work force. How did your Monday go? Was it rewarding or filled with all kinds of disruptions?
When difficulties come into your life, how do you deal with them? Do you let them control you or is it the reverse?
Well, let me give you a very simple prayer to pray: “Lord, you take care of the gnats -- I can take care of the elephants.” The only thing you have to decide is which of your problems elephants are. Usually it is the one that is right in front of you. The gnats are the ones that seem to buzz around and make us think we are failures.
I think how true this prayer is today while I sit at home with the ice on the ground. I look out the office window and the beautiful Bradford Pear trees that we have enjoyed since we moved here are now split apart will have to be taken out. The birds are sitting in the branches still looking for their seed, and still I feel like God will provide for both of us as we wonder what to do now.
Lord, was that another gnat that you conquered for me? If so, would you mind coming and helping me with this elephant? Together we can win a victory for You. In the name of the Living Christ we pray. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will find the power of having a song to sing with your voice.
Yesterday was Monday, the dreaded day of the work force. How did your Monday go? Was it rewarding or filled with all kinds of disruptions?
When difficulties come into your life, how do you deal with them? Do you let them control you or is it the reverse?
Well, let me give you a very simple prayer to pray: “Lord, you take care of the gnats -- I can take care of the elephants.” The only thing you have to decide is which of your problems elephants are. Usually it is the one that is right in front of you. The gnats are the ones that seem to buzz around and make us think we are failures.
I think how true this prayer is today while I sit at home with the ice on the ground. I look out the office window and the beautiful Bradford Pear trees that we have enjoyed since we moved here are now split apart will have to be taken out. The birds are sitting in the branches still looking for their seed, and still I feel like God will provide for both of us as we wonder what to do now.
Lord, was that another gnat that you conquered for me? If so, would you mind coming and helping me with this elephant? Together we can win a victory for You. In the name of the Living Christ we pray. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will find the power of having a song to sing with your voice.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Quick Let's Pray -Mid Week Epistole
QUICK! LET’S PRAY!
Dr. W. E. Sangster once wrote about what he called “minute prayers.” It’s not known if by “minute” he meant “tiny” or prayers that could be prayed in 60 seconds; it probably amounts to the same thing. Prayers do not need to be lengthy. Here are some little gems of prayer that can be used at any time, anywhere:
“O Lord, let me not live to be useless.” (John Wesley)
“Protect me, my Lord; my boat is so small, and your ocean so big.” (Briton fisherman’s prayer)
“Lead kindly light, amid the encircling gloom; lead Thou me on.” (J. H. Newman)
“O God, help me to be master of myself that I may be a servant of others.” (Unknown)
What “minute prayer” could you create for God today?
O God, hear us. Amen!
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Today we talked about short prayers, next week we will look at the text of a prayer.
Dr. W. E. Sangster once wrote about what he called “minute prayers.” It’s not known if by “minute” he meant “tiny” or prayers that could be prayed in 60 seconds; it probably amounts to the same thing. Prayers do not need to be lengthy. Here are some little gems of prayer that can be used at any time, anywhere:
“O Lord, let me not live to be useless.” (John Wesley)
“Protect me, my Lord; my boat is so small, and your ocean so big.” (Briton fisherman’s prayer)
“Lead kindly light, amid the encircling gloom; lead Thou me on.” (J. H. Newman)
“O God, help me to be master of myself that I may be a servant of others.” (Unknown)
What “minute prayer” could you create for God today?
O God, hear us. Amen!
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Today we talked about short prayers, next week we will look at the text of a prayer.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Mid Week Epistole -Positive Thinking by Jim Massey
Positive Thinking
Do you have a problem today thinking positively? It seems as though we are encouraged to look at everything in the world in a negative way. It always reminds me of the famous song from Hee-Haw: "If it weren't for bad luck I'd have no luck at all..."
There once was a shoe company that transferred one of its salesmen to Africa. After arriving he wired: "Am coming back; they don't use shoes here."
The company replaced him with a more positive salesman who immediately wired: "Start shipping shoes; no competition!"
What do you see in your world today? Lost opportunity or golden moments? When you look through the eyes of God, you see all His glorious promises and not the temptations of the devil.
Father, let us look with loving eyes and find the truth you have for us. Then let us turn every moment in the day to a blessing filled with Your glory. In the name of Christ, we lift this prayer. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. I hope this devotional will encourage you to look for all the blessings that God gives you every day of your life. Join me next week when we look at what we put in to be paid from.
Do you have a problem today thinking positively? It seems as though we are encouraged to look at everything in the world in a negative way. It always reminds me of the famous song from Hee-Haw: "If it weren't for bad luck I'd have no luck at all..."
There once was a shoe company that transferred one of its salesmen to Africa. After arriving he wired: "Am coming back; they don't use shoes here."
The company replaced him with a more positive salesman who immediately wired: "Start shipping shoes; no competition!"
What do you see in your world today? Lost opportunity or golden moments? When you look through the eyes of God, you see all His glorious promises and not the temptations of the devil.
Father, let us look with loving eyes and find the truth you have for us. Then let us turn every moment in the day to a blessing filled with Your glory. In the name of Christ, we lift this prayer. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. I hope this devotional will encourage you to look for all the blessings that God gives you every day of your life. Join me next week when we look at what we put in to be paid from.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
The Darkest Hour -Mid Week Epistole by Jim Massey
The Darkest Hour
Today is the sixth anniversary of the terrorist attack on the Twin Towers in New York City. I imagine everyone remembers where they were when the tragedy happened. I recall many people saying it was one of America’s ‘Darkest Hours.”
I remember the days that I watched people relived the event over and over through the news media and table conversations everywhere. The cry went up from people to “Remember 911!”
And then I think of another “Darkest Hour.” It was during the time that terrorist struck at the heart of the world in a garden near Jerusalem. The Son of Man was betrayed by a kiss and evil motives of others. He was judged guilty by angry crowds, scourged and crucified.
Now people may not see the similarity of these two events, but look closely and you can begin to see ways in which they are. The difference is found in what happens after we stand through such trying times. If we are not careful, we will remain forever caught in the pains of the tragedy.
For Christians, it is the days afterward that we begin to see new visions. In both the tragedy of the Twin Towers and the Crucifixion God was present fighting hatred with the power of His grace and love. He never gives sin and evil power in the midst of tragedy, but the strength and resolve of His people show forth in new ways of care and compassion. You see, the answer becomes visible afterwards. In 911 we should now be a nation of strong resolve toward freedom and truth. In the Resurrection we should have a strong individual resolve toward God’s love and salvation for all.
I find new strength in life’s darkest hours in the words of the Psalmist: “If the LORD delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand. I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.” (Ps. 37:23-25)
May God bring His light to your in your darkest hour.
Heavenly Father, today we pray for everyone who faces dark hours in their lives. Though they feel despair, may they know the strength of your children as they encounter them everywhere. You ask us to be a light set upon a hill as a beacon of hope. Let us remember before we can be the light, You must shine in our own heart. Come into our hearts Lord Jesus! Amen. This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week for another mid-week Epistle.
Today is the sixth anniversary of the terrorist attack on the Twin Towers in New York City. I imagine everyone remembers where they were when the tragedy happened. I recall many people saying it was one of America’s ‘Darkest Hours.”
I remember the days that I watched people relived the event over and over through the news media and table conversations everywhere. The cry went up from people to “Remember 911!”
And then I think of another “Darkest Hour.” It was during the time that terrorist struck at the heart of the world in a garden near Jerusalem. The Son of Man was betrayed by a kiss and evil motives of others. He was judged guilty by angry crowds, scourged and crucified.
Now people may not see the similarity of these two events, but look closely and you can begin to see ways in which they are. The difference is found in what happens after we stand through such trying times. If we are not careful, we will remain forever caught in the pains of the tragedy.
For Christians, it is the days afterward that we begin to see new visions. In both the tragedy of the Twin Towers and the Crucifixion God was present fighting hatred with the power of His grace and love. He never gives sin and evil power in the midst of tragedy, but the strength and resolve of His people show forth in new ways of care and compassion. You see, the answer becomes visible afterwards. In 911 we should now be a nation of strong resolve toward freedom and truth. In the Resurrection we should have a strong individual resolve toward God’s love and salvation for all.
I find new strength in life’s darkest hours in the words of the Psalmist: “If the LORD delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand. I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.” (Ps. 37:23-25)
May God bring His light to your in your darkest hour.
Heavenly Father, today we pray for everyone who faces dark hours in their lives. Though they feel despair, may they know the strength of your children as they encounter them everywhere. You ask us to be a light set upon a hill as a beacon of hope. Let us remember before we can be the light, You must shine in our own heart. Come into our hearts Lord Jesus! Amen. This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week for another mid-week Epistle.
Friday, September 07, 2007
Adequate Shoes
Adequate Shoes
With all the disasters in our world today, we need to hear some words of encouragement. Without such words, we can fall victim to something beyond our understanding and our hearts seem to break completely into and we begin to lose sight of the ways in which God can still come to us.
We are reminded in Romans 8:28 - "...in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." When I read that Scripture, I once again reclaim the promise of Christ when He said, "I am with you till the end of the age."
Then I remember something I read years ago. "God will not send you down a path without adequate shoes." That means His love and assurance will always be with me. Prayers, presence, and friends will affirm it. Nothing will be left out of our situation that is needed. All we have to do is claim it in the name of Jesus Christ.
When you walk in the world today, praise God for the "adequate shoes" that He has supplied for you.
Holy Father, to all who have great need this day, let our words lift fallen spirits and help our presence reaffirm Your glory. We pray this in the blessed name of Jesus Christ. Amen. This has been Rev. Jim Massey.
Pray for the nations this day that are caught in hurricanes. Many people will be left homeless, pray that they will not be hopeless. See you next week in our Mid-week Epistle when we talk about naming.
With all the disasters in our world today, we need to hear some words of encouragement. Without such words, we can fall victim to something beyond our understanding and our hearts seem to break completely into and we begin to lose sight of the ways in which God can still come to us.
We are reminded in Romans 8:28 - "...in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." When I read that Scripture, I once again reclaim the promise of Christ when He said, "I am with you till the end of the age."
Then I remember something I read years ago. "God will not send you down a path without adequate shoes." That means His love and assurance will always be with me. Prayers, presence, and friends will affirm it. Nothing will be left out of our situation that is needed. All we have to do is claim it in the name of Jesus Christ.
When you walk in the world today, praise God for the "adequate shoes" that He has supplied for you.
Holy Father, to all who have great need this day, let our words lift fallen spirits and help our presence reaffirm Your glory. We pray this in the blessed name of Jesus Christ. Amen. This has been Rev. Jim Massey.
Pray for the nations this day that are caught in hurricanes. Many people will be left homeless, pray that they will not be hopeless. See you next week in our Mid-week Epistle when we talk about naming.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Mid Week Epistole -Leave the Stinker Alone
Leave The Stinker Alone!
A mother in Darlington, Maryland was returning home one Saturday afternoon when she noticed how quiet things were around her house. This was a rare occasion since she had eight children. As she walked up to the house and peeked through the screen door, she noticed five of her children sitting in a circle in the kitchen floor. They were huddled close together and staring intently at something in the middle of the circle.As she crept closer to them, she could not believer her eyes. Smack dab in the middle of the circle were five baby skunks. She screamed at the top of her voice, "Quick, children: RUN!
"Each child grabbed a skunk and ran.
Many times we are told in the Bible to flee from sin. We are to resist evil at all cost and even then the devil will flee from us. (James 4:7) and the very next verse then says to "come near to God and He will come near to you."
If there is something in your life that is making you miserable and causing you grief and you know it is sinful, then leave it alone quickly. Maybe a good admonition would be, "if something stinks in your life, then leave the stinker alone."
Loving Father, help us to see once again the way sin can enter our lives and make our pains unbearable. Only by continually finding the purity of Your love and grace can we know the pure joy of a life filled with the fragrance of heaven. In Christ's name. Amen This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week for another Mid-week Epistle.
A mother in Darlington, Maryland was returning home one Saturday afternoon when she noticed how quiet things were around her house. This was a rare occasion since she had eight children. As she walked up to the house and peeked through the screen door, she noticed five of her children sitting in a circle in the kitchen floor. They were huddled close together and staring intently at something in the middle of the circle.As she crept closer to them, she could not believer her eyes. Smack dab in the middle of the circle were five baby skunks. She screamed at the top of her voice, "Quick, children: RUN!
"Each child grabbed a skunk and ran.
Many times we are told in the Bible to flee from sin. We are to resist evil at all cost and even then the devil will flee from us. (James 4:7) and the very next verse then says to "come near to God and He will come near to you."
If there is something in your life that is making you miserable and causing you grief and you know it is sinful, then leave it alone quickly. Maybe a good admonition would be, "if something stinks in your life, then leave the stinker alone."
Loving Father, help us to see once again the way sin can enter our lives and make our pains unbearable. Only by continually finding the purity of Your love and grace can we know the pure joy of a life filled with the fragrance of heaven. In Christ's name. Amen This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week for another Mid-week Epistle.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Mid Week Epistole Harmony Know how by Jim Massey
Harmony Know-How!
A beautiful scripture is found in Romans 12:16: "Live in harmony with one another." Six simple words that can be filled will either difficulty or rapture.
Being a musician most of my life, harmony is something that is exciting to the ears. The most common form of harmony comes in the form of notes that for a cord that is made up of intervals of a third. That is simple to do and pleasing to the ear. There are also other intervals that sound mellow or somber those are called "minor chords". And there are chords that are filled with dissonance that must be resolved to make it sound pleasing once again.
There is one rule that is necessary though. It takes at least two to make harmony. You cannot do it by yourself. When two people begin making harmony, you find that one usually sings the lead and the harmony is placed as a second sound below it. That teaches me that there must always be someone who is willing to not be the lead in the music and in a way become a "second fiddle."
Are you willing to do that in your life? What about your family? Are you willing not to be in the spot light, but share it to make something that is so harmonious that people will be amazed at the depth of your love and friendship for one another? That is what harmony means.
What about your relationship to God? Are you willing to let Him sing the leading part in your life knowing that the harmony that comes in that music from heaven is also filled with the power of the Holy Spirit and the grace of God. We have moved from harmony to a symphony that will make the gates of heaven ring.
Lord, help us make the harmony of our lives be filled with the music that can only come from your Holy Grace. We ask this in the blessed name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
A beautiful scripture is found in Romans 12:16: "Live in harmony with one another." Six simple words that can be filled will either difficulty or rapture.
Being a musician most of my life, harmony is something that is exciting to the ears. The most common form of harmony comes in the form of notes that for a cord that is made up of intervals of a third. That is simple to do and pleasing to the ear. There are also other intervals that sound mellow or somber those are called "minor chords". And there are chords that are filled with dissonance that must be resolved to make it sound pleasing once again.
There is one rule that is necessary though. It takes at least two to make harmony. You cannot do it by yourself. When two people begin making harmony, you find that one usually sings the lead and the harmony is placed as a second sound below it. That teaches me that there must always be someone who is willing to not be the lead in the music and in a way become a "second fiddle."
Are you willing to do that in your life? What about your family? Are you willing not to be in the spot light, but share it to make something that is so harmonious that people will be amazed at the depth of your love and friendship for one another? That is what harmony means.
What about your relationship to God? Are you willing to let Him sing the leading part in your life knowing that the harmony that comes in that music from heaven is also filled with the power of the Holy Spirit and the grace of God. We have moved from harmony to a symphony that will make the gates of heaven ring.
Lord, help us make the harmony of our lives be filled with the music that can only come from your Holy Grace. We ask this in the blessed name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
What's On the Backside by Jim Massey Mid Week Epistole
What's On the Backside?
A man was driving his sports utility vehicle when he came to a detour sign that read, "Road Under Repair." A little construction was not going to stop this man and his S.U.V. from getting to where he wanted to go. So he drove around the sign and navigated the construction site with good success. His success continued for about twenty miles until he came to the end of the road beyond which there was a gorge over which there was no bridge.
The man and his S.U.V. had to turn around and retrace his route. When he approached the back side of the same construction sign, he read what someone had written on the back of the sign: "WELCOME BACK DUMMY!"
How many times in our lives has God tried to warn us about dangers and paths that we have taken that are desperately needing repair? Sin makes us feel invincible and when we try to prove it is right, it turns on us and shows us how silly we can be.
God does not do that to us. In all our ways, He is waiting for us to come to Him and ask forgiveness and guidance. He will open His arms and welcome us home. That is why Jesus tells us so many times of the great joy in heaven over one lost soul that has found it way. If you are looking for that joy today, come to the Christ. If you have found it, show it to others.
Holy God. in the midst of Your love we find that we have joy that can come only from You. Thankfully, we are given such abundance; it overflows from our lives into others. That was Your plan from the beginning, and to affirm it You sent Christ to us. Praise be to Your glory and power. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Methodist are notorious for their love of food. Join me and see what food is to die for.
A man was driving his sports utility vehicle when he came to a detour sign that read, "Road Under Repair." A little construction was not going to stop this man and his S.U.V. from getting to where he wanted to go. So he drove around the sign and navigated the construction site with good success. His success continued for about twenty miles until he came to the end of the road beyond which there was a gorge over which there was no bridge.
The man and his S.U.V. had to turn around and retrace his route. When he approached the back side of the same construction sign, he read what someone had written on the back of the sign: "WELCOME BACK DUMMY!"
How many times in our lives has God tried to warn us about dangers and paths that we have taken that are desperately needing repair? Sin makes us feel invincible and when we try to prove it is right, it turns on us and shows us how silly we can be.
God does not do that to us. In all our ways, He is waiting for us to come to Him and ask forgiveness and guidance. He will open His arms and welcome us home. That is why Jesus tells us so many times of the great joy in heaven over one lost soul that has found it way. If you are looking for that joy today, come to the Christ. If you have found it, show it to others.
Holy God. in the midst of Your love we find that we have joy that can come only from You. Thankfully, we are given such abundance; it overflows from our lives into others. That was Your plan from the beginning, and to affirm it You sent Christ to us. Praise be to Your glory and power. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Methodist are notorious for their love of food. Join me and see what food is to die for.
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Only God can Fill Your Vessel - Mid Week Epistole by Jim Massey
Only God can Fill Your Vessel
I once read a statement by Alexander McLaren: "God's mercy, like water, takes the shape of the containing vessel." What a wonderful affirmation of the way God comes into our heart when we surrender all to Him.
He does not take just the things that the world recognizes as good, but He takes everything and fills it with His goodness. There is not a corner or cave that sin can hide in that God does not come and sweep it clean and fill it anew.
But yet, the only way He will do this miraculous feat is that you give Him permission to do so. Strange isn't it, the one who designed the universe, created mankind and all around us, still waits for us to invite Him into our hearts? Will you do so today?
Holy Father, come to every part of our lives this day. Take our thoughts, our words, our emotions, our very desires and fill them full of Your Spirit. Then we will be able to offer truth to others in this world today. We desire all that we need, what we must realize is that You are all we need. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will see what is important on the backside.
I once read a statement by Alexander McLaren: "God's mercy, like water, takes the shape of the containing vessel." What a wonderful affirmation of the way God comes into our heart when we surrender all to Him.
He does not take just the things that the world recognizes as good, but He takes everything and fills it with His goodness. There is not a corner or cave that sin can hide in that God does not come and sweep it clean and fill it anew.
But yet, the only way He will do this miraculous feat is that you give Him permission to do so. Strange isn't it, the one who designed the universe, created mankind and all around us, still waits for us to invite Him into our hearts? Will you do so today?
Holy Father, come to every part of our lives this day. Take our thoughts, our words, our emotions, our very desires and fill them full of Your Spirit. Then we will be able to offer truth to others in this world today. We desire all that we need, what we must realize is that You are all we need. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will see what is important on the backside.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Life Is All Wrong -Mid Week Epistole By Jim Massey
Life is All Wrong
An older gentleman was driving down the freeway, and his cell phone rang. Answering, he heard his wife's voice urgently warning him, "Herman, I just heard on the news that there's a car going the wrong way on Highway 280. Please be careful!"
“Hey," said Herman, "it's not just one car. There are hundreds of them!"
Maybe if it seems like you are going the wrong way in life, you need to look at the direction you are taking. Maybe you are going against God's guidance and love.
Loving Father, turn our hearts back to the way that You have for us. Do not let us destroy all that You have blessed us with because we have made a wrong turn in life. Come and guide us once again, in Christ's name we pray. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will see about the way God fills a vessel.
An older gentleman was driving down the freeway, and his cell phone rang. Answering, he heard his wife's voice urgently warning him, "Herman, I just heard on the news that there's a car going the wrong way on Highway 280. Please be careful!"
“Hey," said Herman, "it's not just one car. There are hundreds of them!"
Maybe if it seems like you are going the wrong way in life, you need to look at the direction you are taking. Maybe you are going against God's guidance and love.
Loving Father, turn our hearts back to the way that You have for us. Do not let us destroy all that You have blessed us with because we have made a wrong turn in life. Come and guide us once again, in Christ's name we pray. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will see about the way God fills a vessel.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Mid Week Epistole - Desert Enticement by Jim Massey
Desert Enticement
A new translation of Hosea 2:14 says: "I will entice you into the desert and there I will speak to you in the depths of your heart."
What could God entice you into the desert with? Material things would slowly waste away. Much like an old prospector that is dying of thirst, the sun parches your throat and will eventually bleach your bones.
What about Ezekiel looking out over the valley of dry bones? What would God use to entice him into the desert? God used the action of the Holy Spirit. When Ezekiel prophesied to the bones, God brought bone to bone and sinew to sinew and then he blew into them the breath of life.
That is what happens to people in the Bible when God comes into their lives. In the desert wanderings of life, they become more than just an empty bag of old bones, rattling around with no meaning or purpose. What God used to entice His children into the deserts of time was Himself.
O God, entice us into the deserts of our souls. There are so many places in our lives where we feel empty and alone. Come there and breathe a new breath into our spirits. Draw us deeper into Your love and will for we ask this in the blessed name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will see the way in which life seems all wrong.
A new translation of Hosea 2:14 says: "I will entice you into the desert and there I will speak to you in the depths of your heart."
What could God entice you into the desert with? Material things would slowly waste away. Much like an old prospector that is dying of thirst, the sun parches your throat and will eventually bleach your bones.
What about Ezekiel looking out over the valley of dry bones? What would God use to entice him into the desert? God used the action of the Holy Spirit. When Ezekiel prophesied to the bones, God brought bone to bone and sinew to sinew and then he blew into them the breath of life.
That is what happens to people in the Bible when God comes into their lives. In the desert wanderings of life, they become more than just an empty bag of old bones, rattling around with no meaning or purpose. What God used to entice His children into the deserts of time was Himself.
O God, entice us into the deserts of our souls. There are so many places in our lives where we feel empty and alone. Come there and breathe a new breath into our spirits. Draw us deeper into Your love and will for we ask this in the blessed name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will see the way in which life seems all wrong.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Mid Week Epistole By Jim Massey - Are You Waving Your Lantern?
Are You Waving Your Lantern?
In 1891 a train company was being sued because a person had been killed at a train crossing. The plaintiff's lawyer interrogated the night watchman at the crossing. When asked if he was on duty, he responded in the affirmative.
"Did you have a lantern?" Again the answer was yes.
"Did you wave the lantern?" Again the same answer. His testimony was so convincing that the plaintiff lost the case. Afterwards, the president of the company congratulated the watchman, telling him that his testimony had saved the company a great deal of money, and that he would be compensated accordingly. The president then asked the watchman, "Were you nervous on the stand?"
"Well, sir, I was a bit afraid they would ask if my lantern was lit." There are many people in the world today trying to wave the Word of God in the face of danger, and what we find is that the light of God is not lit in their own hearts. That is the true danger - telling others about Christ and not knowing Him yourself.
Loving Father, do not let our words ring empty, but let them be filled with all the power of the Holy Spirit that dwells in our hearts. Let our lives be true lights for all to see, and let us help others turn from danger to salvation through Your Son Jesus Christ. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will talk about the way the desert can entice us.
In 1891 a train company was being sued because a person had been killed at a train crossing. The plaintiff's lawyer interrogated the night watchman at the crossing. When asked if he was on duty, he responded in the affirmative.
"Did you have a lantern?" Again the answer was yes.
"Did you wave the lantern?" Again the same answer. His testimony was so convincing that the plaintiff lost the case. Afterwards, the president of the company congratulated the watchman, telling him that his testimony had saved the company a great deal of money, and that he would be compensated accordingly. The president then asked the watchman, "Were you nervous on the stand?"
"Well, sir, I was a bit afraid they would ask if my lantern was lit." There are many people in the world today trying to wave the Word of God in the face of danger, and what we find is that the light of God is not lit in their own hearts. That is the true danger - telling others about Christ and not knowing Him yourself.
Loving Father, do not let our words ring empty, but let them be filled with all the power of the Holy Spirit that dwells in our hearts. Let our lives be true lights for all to see, and let us help others turn from danger to salvation through Your Son Jesus Christ. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will talk about the way the desert can entice us.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Understand Freedom -Mid Week Epistole by Jim Massey
Understand Freedom!
As we once again draw near to celebrating the birth of our great nation, I am reminded of the witness of the men and women who have gone before us in the cause of freedom. Some have been warriors on the field of battle and others may have worked behind the scenes giving strength and sustenance to all as it was needed.
We were founded as a nation upon an idea of freedom that may seem strange to some because they do not truly understand what it can mean. Abraham Lincoln once said: “Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves; and under a just God, cannot long retain it.”
You see that is the key of freedom, the justness of a Creator God who looks at this world as the fulfillment of His love. He wanted His creation to come before Him and love and care for others. Yet, we as a people become confused and sometimes find ourselves deeply in war just like today. We create new words such as “terrorists” and “improvised explosive devices” because we cannot find words that will describe the fear and pain we find in the darkness of days shattered with pain and suffering of such depths.
I once read a wonderful statement of trust: “And I said to a man who stood at the door of the year, ‘Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.’ And he replied, ‘Go out into the darkness, and put your hand into the hand of God. That will be to you better than a light, and safer than a known way.’”
That is the answer to our lives today. Putting our hand in God’s and knowing that His guidance will bring us to a new understanding of freedom. You see, there are two freedoms: The false, where we are free to do what we like, and the true, where we are free to do what we ought.
O God of the nation, come into our hearts this hour and give us strength. Let these prayers for our soldiers in harm’s way bring calmness to their hearts so they can begin to see what the cost of freedom can be. Give those of us who live in this great nation an assurance that Your Holy presence is truly guiding this land to a place where our children will love and care for all Your children everywhere. We know this is possible because Your Son came and told us that the light of the Kingdom is seen in the children. O God, bless the children. Give them Your freedom. We pray this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week for another Mid-week Epistle.
As we once again draw near to celebrating the birth of our great nation, I am reminded of the witness of the men and women who have gone before us in the cause of freedom. Some have been warriors on the field of battle and others may have worked behind the scenes giving strength and sustenance to all as it was needed.
We were founded as a nation upon an idea of freedom that may seem strange to some because they do not truly understand what it can mean. Abraham Lincoln once said: “Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves; and under a just God, cannot long retain it.”
You see that is the key of freedom, the justness of a Creator God who looks at this world as the fulfillment of His love. He wanted His creation to come before Him and love and care for others. Yet, we as a people become confused and sometimes find ourselves deeply in war just like today. We create new words such as “terrorists” and “improvised explosive devices” because we cannot find words that will describe the fear and pain we find in the darkness of days shattered with pain and suffering of such depths.
I once read a wonderful statement of trust: “And I said to a man who stood at the door of the year, ‘Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.’ And he replied, ‘Go out into the darkness, and put your hand into the hand of God. That will be to you better than a light, and safer than a known way.’”
That is the answer to our lives today. Putting our hand in God’s and knowing that His guidance will bring us to a new understanding of freedom. You see, there are two freedoms: The false, where we are free to do what we like, and the true, where we are free to do what we ought.
O God of the nation, come into our hearts this hour and give us strength. Let these prayers for our soldiers in harm’s way bring calmness to their hearts so they can begin to see what the cost of freedom can be. Give those of us who live in this great nation an assurance that Your Holy presence is truly guiding this land to a place where our children will love and care for all Your children everywhere. We know this is possible because Your Son came and told us that the light of the Kingdom is seen in the children. O God, bless the children. Give them Your freedom. We pray this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week for another Mid-week Epistle.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Revenge is So Sweet! Mid Week Epistole by Jim Massey
REVENGE IS SO SWEET!
It is amazing how many people in this world today would love to have a bit of revenge. I know you have seen them, the people who feel anger when they are cut off by an individual driving down the freeway and nearly cause an accident. Or someone cutting in front of you in a parking place that you have tried to get to from the other side of the parking lot.
That happened once to a driver of a Rolls-Royce who was carefully backing into a parking space when a teenager in a snazzy sports car zipped in and stole the space.
Getting out of his car, the youth grinned and said: “You’ve got to be young and quick to be able to do that, Pops.”
The older gentleman smiled as he continued to back up his Rolls, crunching the tiny sports car into a total wreck. “And you have to be old and rich to be able to do that,” he retorted.
Can you imagine the look on the teenagers face and the tremendous feeling of satisfaction that came to the driver of the Rolls? Maybe that is what they mean by the cliché “Revenge is so sweet.”
Would you care to hear God’s way? Psalm 94:16-19: “Who rises up for me against the wicked? Who stands up for me against evildoers? If the Lord had not been my help, my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence. When I thought, ‘My foot is slipping,’ Your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many, Your consolations cheer my soul.”
It is God who is allowed to gain the revenge, what we seek is His love.
O God, when I feel betrayed and alone, remind me of the cross. You overcame those feelings without revenge, but the power of love. Grace me in the same way, I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. One of my greatest loves is my wife and she is an only child. Next week, we will celebration the birth of our nation. May God gloriously guide it for His peace.
It is amazing how many people in this world today would love to have a bit of revenge. I know you have seen them, the people who feel anger when they are cut off by an individual driving down the freeway and nearly cause an accident. Or someone cutting in front of you in a parking place that you have tried to get to from the other side of the parking lot.
That happened once to a driver of a Rolls-Royce who was carefully backing into a parking space when a teenager in a snazzy sports car zipped in and stole the space.
Getting out of his car, the youth grinned and said: “You’ve got to be young and quick to be able to do that, Pops.”
The older gentleman smiled as he continued to back up his Rolls, crunching the tiny sports car into a total wreck. “And you have to be old and rich to be able to do that,” he retorted.
Can you imagine the look on the teenagers face and the tremendous feeling of satisfaction that came to the driver of the Rolls? Maybe that is what they mean by the cliché “Revenge is so sweet.”
Would you care to hear God’s way? Psalm 94:16-19: “Who rises up for me against the wicked? Who stands up for me against evildoers? If the Lord had not been my help, my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence. When I thought, ‘My foot is slipping,’ Your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many, Your consolations cheer my soul.”
It is God who is allowed to gain the revenge, what we seek is His love.
O God, when I feel betrayed and alone, remind me of the cross. You overcame those feelings without revenge, but the power of love. Grace me in the same way, I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. One of my greatest loves is my wife and she is an only child. Next week, we will celebration the birth of our nation. May God gloriously guide it for His peace.
Friday, June 22, 2007
THE NEW DAY - Mid Week Epistole by Jim Massey
THE NEW DAY
Did you see it? Did it just overwhelm you with it’s glorious presence or quietly steal into your heart? Or tragically, did you just rise this morning and begin working and never look for it?
“What is it?” you say. It is the beginning of a new day! It is the rising of the sun upon a world that was battle weary the night before. It is the coming of the new possibility of conquest and celebration.
What if today was the day when a new and dynamic cure for cancer was discovered? Would you quickly arise and await the good news or would you simply drag out of bed?
Many of us would have a hard time answering these questions if not for Jesus Christ in our lives. He is the promise of today written upon our hearts and spirits. He is the One who comes victoriously every new day. And He is the one who offers us to the world. Did you hear? He offers us to the world, and not the world to us. We are the continued promise of God that was made in the very beginning - the new creation of God and the descendants to fill this world with God’s Good News. Come and rejoice this day and show the world how glorious it is to be caught in God’s love.
Dr. Heartsill Wilson once wrote: “This is the beginning of a new day. God has given me this day to use as I will. I can waste it or use it for good, but what I do today is important, because I am exchanging a day of my life for it! When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever, leaving in its place something that I have traded for it. I want it to be gain, and not loss; good, and not evil; success, and not failure; in order that I shall not regret the price I have paid for it.”
Come Lord Jesus, bring this bright new day to us so we can bring the Son to the world to hear and see His glorious salvation. We ask this in the glory and power of our Heavenly Father. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Next week we will find the sweetness of revenge.
Did you see it? Did it just overwhelm you with it’s glorious presence or quietly steal into your heart? Or tragically, did you just rise this morning and begin working and never look for it?
“What is it?” you say. It is the beginning of a new day! It is the rising of the sun upon a world that was battle weary the night before. It is the coming of the new possibility of conquest and celebration.
What if today was the day when a new and dynamic cure for cancer was discovered? Would you quickly arise and await the good news or would you simply drag out of bed?
Many of us would have a hard time answering these questions if not for Jesus Christ in our lives. He is the promise of today written upon our hearts and spirits. He is the One who comes victoriously every new day. And He is the one who offers us to the world. Did you hear? He offers us to the world, and not the world to us. We are the continued promise of God that was made in the very beginning - the new creation of God and the descendants to fill this world with God’s Good News. Come and rejoice this day and show the world how glorious it is to be caught in God’s love.
Dr. Heartsill Wilson once wrote: “This is the beginning of a new day. God has given me this day to use as I will. I can waste it or use it for good, but what I do today is important, because I am exchanging a day of my life for it! When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever, leaving in its place something that I have traded for it. I want it to be gain, and not loss; good, and not evil; success, and not failure; in order that I shall not regret the price I have paid for it.”
Come Lord Jesus, bring this bright new day to us so we can bring the Son to the world to hear and see His glorious salvation. We ask this in the glory and power of our Heavenly Father. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Next week we will find the sweetness of revenge.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Are You Dead? Mid Week Epistole by Jim Massey
ARE YOU DEAD?
I once read a very challenging statement: “Jesus came to raise the dead.” What an interesting comment. The only qualification for the gift of the Gospel is to be dead. You don’t have to be smart. You don’t have to be good. You don’t have to be wise. You don’t have to be wonderful. You don’t have to be anything. You just have to be dead. That’s all.”
You see Jesus said we must die to our sins. In fact one time he was speaking to Nicodemus, one of the leaders of the Jewish people who came to Him in the dark of the night, and he told him, “You must be born again.”
Is there any thing you need to die to? What about jealousy or your feelings of inadequacy to do the bidding of the Master? Or what about your feelings of superiority toward others or your feelings of distress in the face of gossip and untruths?
You see, there is no one on this earth who will not die at one time or another. The main difference between dying right now and when your final breath comes, is that you consciously chose to gain new life and serve God here on earth and not wait until you are offered a home in glory.
Almighty God, do not let us insist on holding only a life that destroys us. Come to us in Your love and grace and then we will know without a doubt that we are alive and not dead. In the blessed name of Christ we pray. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will look at a New Day.
I once read a very challenging statement: “Jesus came to raise the dead.” What an interesting comment. The only qualification for the gift of the Gospel is to be dead. You don’t have to be smart. You don’t have to be good. You don’t have to be wise. You don’t have to be wonderful. You don’t have to be anything. You just have to be dead. That’s all.”
You see Jesus said we must die to our sins. In fact one time he was speaking to Nicodemus, one of the leaders of the Jewish people who came to Him in the dark of the night, and he told him, “You must be born again.”
Is there any thing you need to die to? What about jealousy or your feelings of inadequacy to do the bidding of the Master? Or what about your feelings of superiority toward others or your feelings of distress in the face of gossip and untruths?
You see, there is no one on this earth who will not die at one time or another. The main difference between dying right now and when your final breath comes, is that you consciously chose to gain new life and serve God here on earth and not wait until you are offered a home in glory.
Almighty God, do not let us insist on holding only a life that destroys us. Come to us in Your love and grace and then we will know without a doubt that we are alive and not dead. In the blessed name of Christ we pray. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will look at a New Day.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Strength for Daily Living by Rev Jim Massey
Strength for Daily Living
Have you ever had things go wrong in your life? You know what I mean, the washing machine breaks down, the dog runs away, the children are rebellious, and everything that you touch seems to fall apart.
Well, we all have days like that. They can become moments in our lives when we feel so out of control and helpless that it is heart-breaking.
I once found a beautiful prayer that seemed to answer a lot of what I feel at times in my own life and maybe in yours as well. It goes like this:
"Lord, things are as they are. My richly embroidered daydreams do not alter them any. Some things just are.
So...now what? Do I spend the next thirty years, or the next thirty days, or even the next thirty minutes blubbering about it?
I could, Lord. You'd listen. But it wouldn't change things.
Except me.
It would diminish me.
It would leave me spent.
And frustrated. And less than I was meant to be.
Better I should use my next thirty years -- yes, and my next thirty minutes -- working with the situation, as it is.
Better I should look it square in the face and accept it and then pick life up and start from here. God, give me the serenity to accept those things which cannot be changed. Amen."
That prayer came from a book by Jo Karr. She must have experienced many of the same things in her life that you and I have as well. Or perhaps, maybe her life is normal, just like yours and mine.
Loving Father, let us claim this day in the name of Jesus Christ. Let nothing happen to us this day that Your loving presence is not clearly a part of it. Let us not become discouraged, but encouraged as we offer ourselves to your loving grace and power. We pray this in the blessed name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Remember to share your love with a very special mother this Sunday and join me next week and we will share ten ways to conquer worry.
Have you ever had things go wrong in your life? You know what I mean, the washing machine breaks down, the dog runs away, the children are rebellious, and everything that you touch seems to fall apart.
Well, we all have days like that. They can become moments in our lives when we feel so out of control and helpless that it is heart-breaking.
I once found a beautiful prayer that seemed to answer a lot of what I feel at times in my own life and maybe in yours as well. It goes like this:
"Lord, things are as they are. My richly embroidered daydreams do not alter them any. Some things just are.
So...now what? Do I spend the next thirty years, or the next thirty days, or even the next thirty minutes blubbering about it?
I could, Lord. You'd listen. But it wouldn't change things.
Except me.
It would diminish me.
It would leave me spent.
And frustrated. And less than I was meant to be.
Better I should use my next thirty years -- yes, and my next thirty minutes -- working with the situation, as it is.
Better I should look it square in the face and accept it and then pick life up and start from here. God, give me the serenity to accept those things which cannot be changed. Amen."
That prayer came from a book by Jo Karr. She must have experienced many of the same things in her life that you and I have as well. Or perhaps, maybe her life is normal, just like yours and mine.
Loving Father, let us claim this day in the name of Jesus Christ. Let nothing happen to us this day that Your loving presence is not clearly a part of it. Let us not become discouraged, but encouraged as we offer ourselves to your loving grace and power. We pray this in the blessed name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Remember to share your love with a very special mother this Sunday and join me next week and we will share ten ways to conquer worry.
How To Deal With Worry by Jim Massey
How to Deal with Worry
Have you ever tossed and turned at night, worrying about something that you are sure is going to happen tomorrow and it never does? Then you are probably one of those people who this will really help a lot. I found a wonderful article once about the way to conquer worry. Let me list some of them for you.
l. Recognize that there is a big difference between nervous worry and healthy concern.
2. Get plenty of rest. Your problems look so much bigger when you are tired than when you are relaxed and refreshed.
3. Do not forget that problems have a way of diminishing in size as you get closer to them. Tomorrow's troubles look so much bigger today than they will look tomorrow.
4. Remember there is just as much chance it will not happen, as that it will.
5. Count on your hidden reserves. You have deep within you sleeping power which come forth in hours of crisis.
6. Learn to distinguish between those parts of life which you can control and those parts which you cannot.
7. Be wary of jealousy. Other people only look like they do not have a worry. Do not get the idea that worry has singled you out for its victim.
8. Check your goals. You may be worrying over false ambitions which really are not worth the effort.
9. When you are anxious, stop and something for someone, for a shut-in or a troubled friend. In extending yourself you will lose your frustrations.
10. Count on God. He has handled problems like yours long before you came along. There is just as much Divine power for you as for anyone else. Use His daily help and strength.
Now that may seem like a long list of things to do, but as you hear these things, the worry seems to begin to fall away. And please do remember that God is with you, so you have a strength that is greater than any trouble this world may bring to you.
Let us pray: Heavenly and eternal Father. Today we ask that you grant us the patience to wait on Your grace in our times of trouble. If we will do so, then Your power will fill our lives and we will not be caught in our worries.
Calm our Spirits and guide our lives. We pray these things in the blessed name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will talk about living a life of Risk.
Have you ever tossed and turned at night, worrying about something that you are sure is going to happen tomorrow and it never does? Then you are probably one of those people who this will really help a lot. I found a wonderful article once about the way to conquer worry. Let me list some of them for you.
l. Recognize that there is a big difference between nervous worry and healthy concern.
2. Get plenty of rest. Your problems look so much bigger when you are tired than when you are relaxed and refreshed.
3. Do not forget that problems have a way of diminishing in size as you get closer to them. Tomorrow's troubles look so much bigger today than they will look tomorrow.
4. Remember there is just as much chance it will not happen, as that it will.
5. Count on your hidden reserves. You have deep within you sleeping power which come forth in hours of crisis.
6. Learn to distinguish between those parts of life which you can control and those parts which you cannot.
7. Be wary of jealousy. Other people only look like they do not have a worry. Do not get the idea that worry has singled you out for its victim.
8. Check your goals. You may be worrying over false ambitions which really are not worth the effort.
9. When you are anxious, stop and something for someone, for a shut-in or a troubled friend. In extending yourself you will lose your frustrations.
10. Count on God. He has handled problems like yours long before you came along. There is just as much Divine power for you as for anyone else. Use His daily help and strength.
Now that may seem like a long list of things to do, but as you hear these things, the worry seems to begin to fall away. And please do remember that God is with you, so you have a strength that is greater than any trouble this world may bring to you.
Let us pray: Heavenly and eternal Father. Today we ask that you grant us the patience to wait on Your grace in our times of trouble. If we will do so, then Your power will fill our lives and we will not be caught in our worries.
Calm our Spirits and guide our lives. We pray these things in the blessed name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Join me next week and we will talk about living a life of Risk.
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