God's Family Church

LOOKING FOR A FEW GOOD INDEPENDENT CHURCHES

2008-03-28T13:31:00.001-07:00

By: Reverend Ray N. Southerland, GFC Senior Pastor/Movement's CEO

God's Family Reformation Movement is seeking those independent non-denominational churches, para-church organizations, church outreach ministries, and missionaries wishing to be part of a growing fundamental and conservative organization. A movement that equally accepts you regardless of color of skin, denominational background or creed, age of congregation, sex of pastor and other church leaders, nationality, or disability. We reach out to all believers in Jesus Christ in loving fellowship with one another.

We as a movement believe that both men and woman are equal in the sight of God and that God doesn't look at the sex of the person called to be a pastor or other important leader of influence within a church. Therefore if you are a female and have been placed on the side-line, because of your sex, please contact us for more information and strong support. God's Family Church and Reformation Movement strongly believes that all members of a local congregation are equal in the site of God. Clergy are not the dictator, supreme ruler of a church. They are God's shepherd's of the flock, leaders within the church spiritual matters, and spiritual teachers to aide fellow believers in their spiritual growth.

As a movement we believe that each church is governed and organizationaly ran independent of the movement's leader dictates. We, as the movement's leaders, are to assist and provide support when needs arise with in a local church, such as: a new pastor, a worship (choir) leader, assistant pastor, youth pastor and many more. We as the movement's leadership will not interfere with your governing of your local church unless invited in to lend professional assistance in areas the local church desires. We ordain new pastors and other leaders plus provide education for those who require a deeper understanding of scripture, the Christian faith, church early and present history, church organization and operation. We even assist those desiring to start their own church within their community. When seeking or desiring to become a new ordained pastor we provide documentation to the local church, that the person is well qualified to be in ministry.

If this is the type of movement you are prayerfully seeking then write me at: pastorrays@gmail.com. We will then provide you with all the needed information tailored to your request and needs. Looking forward to your email message.
IN HIS SERVICE AND A SLAVE TO JESUS CHRIST. --Reverend Ray Southerland

THE FIRST AND THE LAST

2008-03-22T11:56:00.001-07:00

By unknown Author--recv’d via email

He is the First and Last, the Beginning and the End! He is the keeper of Creation and the Creator of all! He is the Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times. He always was, He always is, and He always will be. Unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and never Undone!

He was bruised and brought healing! He was pierced and eased pain! He was persecuted and brought freedom! He was dead and brought life! He is risen and brings power! He reigns and brings Peace!

The world can't understand him, the armies can't defeat Him, the schools can't explain Him, and the leaders can't ignore Him. Herod couldn't kill Him, the Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, and the people couldn't hold Him! Nero couldn't crush Him, Hitler couldn't silence Him, The New Age can't replace Him, and Talk show hosts can't explain Him away! He is light, love, longevity, and Lord. He is goodness, kindness, gentleness, and God. He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure.

His ways are right, His word is eternal, His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me. He is my Redeemer, He is my Savior, He is my guide, and He is my peace! He is my Joy, He is my comfort, He is my Lord, and He rules my life!

I serve Him because His bond is love, His burden is light, and His goal for me is abundant life. I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise, The power of the powerful, The ancient of days, the ruler of rulers, The leader of leaders, the overseer of the over-comers, and The sovereign Lord of all that was and is and is to come.

And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size. His goal is a relationship with ME! He will never leave me, Never forsake me, Never mislead me, Never forget me, Never overlook me, and Never cancel my appointment in His appointment book!

When I fall, He lifts me up! When I confess failure, He forgives! When I am weak, He is strong! When I am lost, He is the way! When I am afraid, He is my courage! When I stumble, He steadies me! When I am hurt, He heals me! When I am broken, He mends me! When I am blind, He leads me! When I am hungry, He feeds me!

TRADITIONAL WEDDING CEREMONY

2008-03-19T16:26:00.002-07:00

By Unknown Author

With spring in the air, more and more couples are planning to "tie the knot" so to speak. I love this time of year, because I love doing weddings. Actually I have never found weddings to increase the total numbers of the church. Yet I have had each year elders coming to me and asking and even planning for weddings. They even state that weddings increase the Sunday morning attendence.

As I have become older, I let the leaders of the church live in this make believe world, of the local church growing, as we increase the numbers of weddings. I really don't have the heart to tell my leaders that weddings have never increased the Sunday morning attendence. What I do is require that a couple wishing to use my services to attend our Sunday Morning Services until they are married. They do come to church, but after the honeymoon, for the most part, you never see the couple again until new arrivals start arriving in their family.

I felt this might be a great time to place the Traditional Wedding Ceremony in my blog. If you are planning to marry this may give you some ideal of what is said. Most weddings only take approximately 45 min from start to finish so you can see in the big picture of things it is a very short service. Very little of the service is really straight from the Bible. You may have scripture readings, and communion but for the most part the Ceremony is man made.

(Upon entrance of the Bride the minister says: All rise and everyone attending the wedding stand up, and remain standing until the minister says be seated)

MINISTER:
We are gathered here today in the presence of God and this company to witness the joining together of (_____ and ______) in holy matrimony. Marriage is an honorable and solemn vow that one makes to another and to God; therefore marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently and soberly.

Into these vows these two persons standing before me this day now come to be joined. If any one can show just cause why they may not be legally joined together, let them speak now or forever hold their peace.

MINISTER
Who gives this woman to be married to this man?

THE PERSON(S) MAY SAY:
I do, or her mother and father do, or we do.
(Then the person or persons giving the bride away sits down. Then the couple come and join hands.)

MINISTER TO THE GROOM:
(______), do you take (______) to be your wife, to live in holy matrimony? Will you love, honor, comfort, and cherish her from this day forward, forsaking all others, keeping only unto her for as long as you both shall live? (please answer I do)

GROOM:
I do.

MINISTER TO BRIDE:
(______), do you take (_______) to be your husband, to live in holy matrimony? Will you love, honor, comfort, and cherish him from this day forward, forsaking all others, keeping only unto him for as long as you both shall live? (please answer I do)

BRIDE:
I do.

(At this point the couple may improvise by playing a favorite song and/or reading.
(Then the couple follows the Minister to the designated place, then they turn and face each other and hold hands)

BRIDE AND GROOM BLESSING PRAYER:
MINISTER: (addressing the Groom ask him to repeat the marriage vows)
I (______) take you (_______) to be my wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love, honor, and cherish, 'til death do us part, and thereto I give you my solemn promise.

MINISTER: (addressing the Bride ask her to repeat the marriage vows)
I (______) take you (______) to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love, honor, and cherish, 'til death do us part, and thereto I give you my solemn promise.

(The Minister then asks for the ring(s) from the best man.)
MINISTER: (takes the ring(s) and then the minister blesses the rings he or she holds):
May this (these) ring(s) be blessed so who gives and wears these rings may abide in peace, and continue in love until life's end, Amen.

(Groom: takes the Bride’s ring and places her ring on her ring finger).
MINISTER: (the Groom repeats after the Minister this vow.)
With this ring I thee wed. Wear it as a symbol of our love and commitment.

(Bride: takes the Grooms ring and places his ring on his ring finger):
MINISTER: (Bride repeats after the minister this vow)
With this ring I thee wed. Wear it as a symbol of our love and commitment.

(You may want to play a song or some music here or at this time the unity candle ceremony may take place).

MINISTER:
May this couple be prepared to continue to give, be able to forgive, and experience more and more joy with each passing day, and with each passing year. (______) and (______), are now beginning their married life together, we hope that they may have loving assistance from their family, the constant support of friends, and a long life with good health and everlasting love. In so much as (_______) and (________) have consented to live together in wedlock, and have witnessed the same before this company, having given their pledge to each, and having declared their commitment by the giving and receiving of a ring (s), I pronounce that they are husband and wife.

MINISTER: (to the couple)
(_______) you now may kiss the Bride.

MINISTER:
Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you Mr. and Mrs. _______ _______.

THE END

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF HOLY WEEK

2008-03-18T16:44:00.002-07:00

BY: Reverend Ray Southerland

Since this is holy week, I thought I would devote my bloging lessons on “what Holy Week” means. Can anyone name the specific days that we celebrate as Holy Week? Those of you who are clergy don’t count, because you should know what days are classified as Holy Week. Actually we don’t celebrate the whole week but specific days in this week. The days are as follows: Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday.

This is an easy question, if you just think about it. What is the name of the last week of Lent? Holy week is the last week of Lent and it immediately proceeds Easter Sunday. Who observes Holy Week anyway? Do all Christian Churches observe Holy Week, or is it just the Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox Catholic Churches? Actually Holy Week is observed in many Christian churches, in many different ways. Churches of days gone by, used to hold revivals during this time. Some Christian churches take this time to observe or enact the suffering (Passion) and death of Jesus through various observances and services of worship. Something that isn’t done as often today, but in the past, foot washing and the actually sitting down to a “last supper” used to be observed. In some protestant churches an Easter play is presented including opening their doors and inviting people to listen to this play or hear a special choir sing.

While some church traditions focus specifically on the events of the last week of Jesus’ life, by opening their doors for the congregation to participate in the stations of the cross. I could go on and on by saying some have services that focus upon the larger themes that marked Jesus’ entire ministry. Observances during this week range from daily masses or services to informal meetings in homes in what may be called the Christian version of the Passover Seder.

In the Roman Catholic tradition they celebrate the conclusion of Holy week in what is called the Easter Triduum (a triduum is a space of three days usually accompanying a church festival or holy days that are devoted to special prayer and observance).

The Lutherans, simply refer to "The Three Days." In either case the Easter Triduum begins Thursday evening of Holy Week with a mass and concludes with evening prayers Easter Sunday.

What is the importance of Holy Week observances? It’s importance is placing our hope in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The resurrection is the promise of newness and life, against the background of death and endings.

It is only in walking through the shadows and darkness of Holy Week and realizing the horror and magnitude of sin and its consequences in the world that we can truly understand the light and hope of this coming Sunday, Easter morning!

Palm Sunday (or Passion Sunday)

As Christians we celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. One may ask, Why were there so many people in Jerusalem during that Day and the days that followed? They were in Jerusalem for the Passover celebrations? The Gospels tell us that Jesus rode into the city enacting the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, and in so doing emphasized the humility that was to characterize the Kingdom he proclaimed.

The irony of his acceptance as the new Davidic King (Mark 11:10) then by the crowds, within five days, cry for his execution is hard for us to understand today. This should be a sobering reminder of the human tendency to want God on our own terms.

Traditionally, worshippers enact the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem by the waving of palm branches and singing songs of celebration. Sometimes this is accompanied by a procession into the church. In most Protestant traditions, the church colors are purple, and that color is used until Easter Sunday. Now in Catholic tradition the colors are changed to Red for Palm Sunday. Easter Sunday the church should be draped in Red and this color should be used for PENTECOST as remembering of all the martyrs of the church. Since it symbolizes shed blood it can be used on Palm Sunday to symbolize the death of Jesus.

While most Protestants celebrate the Sunday before Easter as Palm Sunday, the Roman Catholics and some of the more traditional Protestant churches celebrate Palm Sunday as Passion Sunday anticipating the impending death of Jesus.

Increasingly, many churches are incorporating an emphasis on the Passion of Jesus into services on this Sunday as a way to balance the celebration of Easter Sunday. Rather than having the two Sundays both focus on triumph, Passion Sunday is presented as a time to reflect on the suffering and death of Jesus in a Sunday service of worship.

MAUNDY THURSDAY OR HOLY THURSDAY

The question that I am going to ask is, What do you think Maundy Thursday or Holy Thursday means? This is the day for the last supper or the last Passover Meal Jesus and his disciples had together. Therefore in the past more than today some of the Protestant churches focus upon foot washing and the last meal.

This Thursday of Holy Week is remembered as the time Jesus ate a final meal together with the men who had followed him for so long. The question or theme throughout this week should not shift from the real focus of the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Traditionally in Christian Churches, this day is known as Maundy Thursday. The term Maundy comes from the Latin word mandatum (from which we get our English word mandate), from a verb that means "to give," "to entrust," or "to order." The term is usually translated "commandment," from John's account of this Thursday night. According to the Fourth Gospel, as Jesus and the Disciples were eating their final meal together before Jesus’ arrest, he washed the disciples' feet to illustrate humility and the spirit of servant-hood. After they had finished the meal, and as they walked into the night toward Gethsemane, Jesus taught his disciples a "new" commandment that was not really new (John 13:34-35): A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; even as I have loved you, you also ought to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.

GOOD FRIDAY OR HOLY FRIDAY

Friday of Holy Week has been traditionally been called Good Friday or Holy Friday. On this day, the church celebrates or remembers Jesus’ arrest (since by Jewish customs of counting days from sundown to sundown it was already Friday), his trial, crucifixion and suffering, death, and burial. In the church proper all pictures, statutes, and the cross are covered in mourning black. This includes the altar coverings being replaced with black, and altar candles are extinguished. They are left this way through Saturday, but are always replaced with white before sunrise on Sunday.

There are a variety of services of worship for Good Friday, all aimed at allowing worshippers to experience some sense of the pain, humiliation, and ending in the journey to the cross. The traditional Catholic service for Good Friday is held in mid-afternoon to correspond to the final words of Jesus from the cross (around 3 PM, Matt 27:46-50). However, modern schedules have led many churches to move the service to the evening to allow more people to participate. Usually, a Good Friday service is a series of Scripture readings, and a time of meditation and prayer. Some of the scriptures read during this service is: Father, forgive them (Luke 23:34), This day you will be with me in paradise (Luke 23:43); Woman, behold your son . . .(John 19:26-27); My God, my God (Matthew 27:46, Mark 15:34), I thirst. (John 19:28);It is finished! (John 19:30); Father into your hands (Luke 23:46).

HOLY SATURDAY

This is the seventh day of the week, the day Jesus rested in the tomb. In the first three Gospel accounts this was the Jewish Sabbath, which provided appropriate symbolism of the seventh day rest. Some have what is called Easter Vigil Service, where Scripture readings are conducted throughout the service. It is traditionally a quiet meditation service for Christian churches, and generally the church is darkened to represent the darkness of a world, without a future, and without hope, apart from God and his grace.

An ancient tradition dating to the first centuries of the church calls for no food of any kind to be eaten on Holy Saturday, or for 40 hours before sunrise on Sunday. However it is observed, Holy Saturday has traditionally been a time of reflection and waiting, the time of weeping that lasts for the night while awaiting the joy that comes in the morning (Psa 30:5).

LOVE THEM BLOOPERS

2008-03-16T16:32:00.002-07:00

By Unknown received via email

They're Back! Those wonderful Church Bulletins! Thank God for church ladies with using the computer but not proof reading.
These sentences (with all the BLOOPERS and typos) actually appeared in church bulletins or were announced in church services:
---The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals.
---The sermon this morning: 'Jesus Walks on the Water.' The sermon tonight:'Searching for Jesus.'
---Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your husbands.
---Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our community. Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say 'Hell' to someone who doesn't care much about you.---Don't let worry kill you off - let the Church help.
---Miss Charlene Mason sang 'I will not pass this way again,' giving obvious pleasure to the congregation.
---For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs
---Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get.
---Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on October 24 in the church. So ends a friendship that began in their school days.
---A bean supper will be held on Tuesday evening in the church hall. Music will follow.---At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be 'What Is Hell?' Come early and listen to our choir practice.
---Eight new choir robes are currently needed due to the addition of several new members and to the deterioration of some older ones.
---Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.
---Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered.
---The church will host an evening of fine dining, super entertainment and gracious hostility.
---Potluck supper Sunday at 5:00 PM - prayer and medication to follow.
---The ladies of the Church cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.
---This evening at 7 PM there will be a hymn singing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.
---Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10 AM. All ladies are invited to lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B. S. is done.
---The pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the Congregation would lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday.
---Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM. Please use the back door.
---The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement Friday at 7 PM. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.
---Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.
---The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new campaign slogan last Sunday: 'I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours.'

PRAY FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN

2008-03-14T14:49:00.001-07:00

By: Author unknown--sent to me by a friend via email

The average age of the military man is 19 years. He is a short haired, tight-muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by society as half man, half boy. Not yet dry behind the ears, not old enough to buy a beer, but old enough to die for his country. He never really cared much for work and he would rather wax his own car than wash his father's, but he has never collected unemployment either.
He's a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student, pursued some form of sport activities, drives a ten year old jalopy, and has a steady girlfriend that either broke up with him when he left, or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away. He listens to rock and roll or hip-hop or rap or jazz or swing and a 155mm howitzer.
He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk. He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him, but he can field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less time in the dark. He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either one effectively if he must. He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a professional. He can march until he is told to stop, or stop until he is told to march.
He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without spirit or individual dignity. He is self-sufficient. He has two sets of fatigues: he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry.
He sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle. He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts. If you're thirsty, he'll share his water with you; if you are hungry, his food. He'll even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when you run low. He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons like they were his hands. He can save your life - or take it, because that is his job. He will often do twice the work of a civilian, draw half the pay, and still find ironic humor in it all. He has seen more suffering and death than he should have in his short lifetime. He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in combat and is unashamed.
He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to 'square-away ' those around him who haven't bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking. In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their right to be disrespectful.
Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great- grandfather, he is paying the price for our freedom. Beardless or not, he is not a boy. He is the American Fighting Man that has kept this country free for over 200 years.
He has asked nothing in return, except our friendship and understanding. Remember him, always, for he has earned our respect and admiration with his blood, and now we even have women over there in danger, doing their part in this tradition of going to War when our nation calls us to do so. As you go to bed tonight, remember this shot. A short lull, a little shade and a picture of loved ones in their helmets.
Prayer Wheel
"Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Amen."

When you read this, please stop for a moment and say a prayer for our ground troops in Afghanistan, sailors on ships, and airmen in the air, and for those in Iraq.
There is nothing attached... This can be very powerful...Of all the gifts you could give a US Soldier, Sailor, Coastguardsman, Marine, or Airman, prayer is the very best one.

VATICAN ANNOUNCES SEVERAL NEW SINS

2008-03-12T12:23:00.002-07:00

By: Taken off the Front Page of Yahoo News--Philip Pullella Posted Mon Mar 10, 2008 6:00am PDT

In reading this article it said that the Vatican had listed several "new sins," that includes polluting our environment. I agree with the Vatican that polluting our environment is a sin. I don’t know if it is really a deadly sin, in that, one would go to Hell, but I believe it is a sin and a slap in God the creator’s face.

This article said that the Vatican had added one more social sin to the already 10 Commandments found in scriptures. The new sin reads: “Thou shall not pollute the Earth”. Then the article then goes on to say, “Thou shall beware genetic manipulation”. I again agree this is a sin of murder in a more social acceptable thinking.

I again agree for these two sins point to our modern times and the failing morality of mankind. I think whether Roman Catholic or Protestant we must stand together to voice our strong opinions again the sins of the environment and the human race. Yet we as “the people” remain silent and don’t place the responsibility for these sins upon us as individuals. We are all guilty parties for not voicing our moral beliefs to the Federal Government, for its turning a blind eye upon the medical/scientific community and big business in desecrating our fragile environment, and not being more compassionate towards mankind.

The reporters of the world questioned the Vatican about their stance on bioethics and I love the Vatican’s come back. They agree that bioethics is uncharted territory, but we are violating the fundamental rights of human nature through experiments and genetic manipulation. I wish the Vatican would ask all Christian Church leaders to join them in this immoral act toward the human race. For I totally agree that as we go down this road we can not predict or control bioethics. I believe that all Religious leaders of the world equally oppose stem cell research that involves the destruction of embryos and the prospect of human cloning.

I am calling out to all religions of the world to come alongside Pope Benedict and together make a strong appeal to protect our environment and oppose bioethics of stem cell experimentation.

HOW SMART IS YOUR RIGHT FOOT?

2008-03-11T15:51:00.002-07:00

By an Orthopedic Surgeon

This will boggle your mind and you will keep trying over and over again to see if you can outsmart your foot, but, you can't. It's preprogrammedin your brain!

1. While sitting where you are at your desk in front of your computer, lift your right foot off the floor and make clockwise circles. 2. Now, while doing this, draw the number "6" in the air withyour right Hand. Your foot will change direction.

I told you so!!! And there's nothing you can do about it! You andI both know how stupid it is, but before the day is done you aregoing to try it again, if you've not already done so. Send it to your buddies to frustrate them too.

2008-03-10T11:15:00.001-07:00

As a pastor for almost 36 years I have seen many families toren apart by this terrible affliction. I also have several very close friends of mine including my own sister-in-law who are survivors of this specific deadly cancer. That is why I whole heartly support this organization.

Visit the Breast Cancer site and find out how you can partner with them in aiding needy woman throughout our Nation. Give some needy woman real help--and hope in their hour of need.

Seattle - 50 screenings: Polly's Place
Portland - 500 screenings: Adventist Medical Center
Denver - 78 screenings: Denver Mission Serving the Homeless
Bakersfield - 500 screenings: San Joachin Community Hospital
Los Angeles - 760 screenings: White Memorial Hospital, LA Mission, Watts Health Foundation
San Diego - 900 screenings: Council of Community Clinics: 31 centers in San Diego County
Pheonix - 300 screenings: Mayo Clinic Serving Southern Arizona
Houston - 1,250 screenings: M.D. Anderson Medical Center Good Neighbor Screening Program
Little Rock - 1,000 screenings: Baptist Health Breast Center Serving Northeast Arkansas
State of Mississippi - 1,500 screenings: Mississippi Department of Health Serving all major hospitals in the entire state
Rochester - 400 screenings: Mayo Clinic Serving Southern Minnesota
Omaha - 500 screenings: Nebraska Medical Center Serving the Omaha-Lincoln Area
Grand Rapids - 500 screenings: Spectrum Health Foundation
Chicago - 3,050 screenings: St. Alexius Medical Centers, Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center, Swedish Covenant Hospital
Indianapolis - 500 screenings: St. Vincent's Medical Center Serving Central Indiana
St. Louis - 1,000 screenings: St. Anthony's Medical Center Serving Missouri Lexington - 500 screenings: University of Kentucky Hospital Serving Appalacia
Orlando - 100 screenings: Florida Homeless Council Serving Central Florida
Jacksonville - 300 screenings: Mayo Clinic Serving Northern Florida
Cincinnati - 320 screenings: Bethesda Foundation
Columbus - 750 screenings: Ohio Health Foundation, Mt. Carmel Foundation
Cleveland - 1,500 screenings: Cleveland Clinic Serving Northern Ohio
Detroit - 750 screenings: St. John Hospital Foundation, Pontiac Hospital
New York City - 2,700 screenings: American-Italian Cancer Foundation & Sloan-Kettering
Boston - 1,750 screenings: Massachusetts General Hospital Serving all New England
Maui - 500 screenings: Maui Health Foundation Serving the Hawaiian Islands
Puerto Rico - 72 screenings: Hospital San Pablo del Este Fajarido
Serving San Juan Area
National Breast Cancer Foundation

www.nationalbreastcancer.org

The Breast Cancer Site is proud to be partnered with the nonprofit National Breast Cancer Foundation in its mission to save lives by increasing awareness of breast cancer through education and providing mammograms for those in need.

Janelle Hail is a breast cancer survivor and the founder and President of the National Breast Cancer Foundation. She is a 26-year breast cancer survivor; NBCF has a four-star Charity Navigator rating and has funded tens of thousands of free mammograms for working poor, homeless, and uninsured women, and reached many more through its educational initiatives. More than 80 percent of National Breast Cancer Foundation funds go directly to its programs.

The National Breast Cancer Foundation's focus is to save lives now through early breast cancer detection. Mammograms are one of the best methods to catch the disease before it's too late. In fact, if the disease is caught early enough, the five-year survival rate is 96 percent.

The Foundation has forged relationships with hospitals all over the United States, and together they reach out to the surrounding communities, especially to women who might not otherwise have access to mammograms. Learn more about the work we are achieving together by reading the following stories of hope from the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

WHAT AN UGLY LADY

2008-03-03T16:38:00.000-07:00

By unknown Author---rec. by email

A lady was walking down the street to work and she saw a parrot on a perch in front of a pet store. The parrot said to her, "Hey lady, you are really ugly." Well, the lady is furious! She stormed past the store to her work. On the way home she saw the same parrot and it said to her, "Hey lady, you are really ugly." She was incredibly upset now. The next day the same parrot again said to her, "Hey lady, you are really ugly." The lady was so upset that she went into the store and said that she would sue the store and kill the bird. The store manager replied, "That's not good," and promised he wouldn't say it again. When the lady walked past the store that day after work the parrot called to her, "Hey lady." She paused and said, "Yes?" The bird said, "You know."

JUST WAKE ME WHEN IT'S OVER

2008-02-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

BY unknown author

One Sunday morning, a mother went in to wake her son and tell him it was time to get ready for church, to which he replied, 'I'm not Going.'
'Why not?' she asked.

I'll give you two good reasons,' he said. 'One, they don't like Me, and two, I don't like them.' His mother replied, 'I'll give YOU two good reasons why YOU SHOULD go to church.

(1) You're 59 years old, and
(2) you're the pastor!'

THE HEART

2008-02-27T16:45:00.000-07:00

By unknown author
"Tomorrow morning," the surgeon began, "I'll open up your heart..."
"You'll find Jesus there," the boy interrupted.
the surgeon looked up, annoyed "I'll cut your heart open," he continued,
to see how much damage has been done..." "but when you open up my heart, you'll find Jesus in there," said the boy.
The surgeon looked to the parents, who Sat quietly. "When I see how much
damage has been done, I'll sew your heart and chest back up, and I'll plan
what to do next." "But you'll find Jesus in my heart.
The Bible says He lives there. The hymns all say He lives there. You'll find Him in my heart."
The surgeon had had enough. "I'll tell you what I'll find in your heart.
I'll find damaged muscle, low blood supply, and weakened vessels.
And I'll find out if I can make you well." "You'll find Jesus there too. He lives there."
The surgeon left. The surgeon sat in his office, recording his notes from the surgery, "...damaged aorta, damaged pulmonary vein, widespread muscle degeneration. No hope for transplant, no hope for cure. Therapy: painkillers and bed rest. Prognosis: here he paused, "death within one year."
He stopped the recorder, but there was more to be said. "Why?" he asked aloud.
"Why did You do this? You've put him here; You've put him in this pain; and You've cursed him to an early death. Why?" The Lord answered and said, "The boy, my lamb, was not meant for your flock for long, for he is a part of My flock, and will forever be. Here, in My flock, he will feel no pain, and will be comforted as you cannot imagine. They will one day join him here, and they will know peace, and My flock will continue to grow." The surgeon's tears were hot, but his anger was hotter. "You created that
boy, and You created that heart. He'll be dead in months. Why?"
The Lord answered, " The boy, My lamb, shall return to My flock, for He has done his duty: I did not put My lamb with your flock to lose him, but to retrieve another lost lamb." The surgeon wept... The surgeon sat beside the boy' s bed; the boy's parents sat across from him.
The boy awoke and whispered,
"Did you cut open my heart?"
"Yes," said the surgeon. "What did you find?" asked the boy. "I found Jesus there," said the surgeon.

THIS MUST HAVE BEEN LOVE

2008-02-14T17:19:00.002-07:00

Who is Jesus? HE IS JESUS WHO IS HE?
IN CHEMISTRY, HE TURNED WATER TO WINE.
IN BIOLOGY, HE WAS BORN WITHOUT THE NORMAL CONCEPTION;
IN PHYSICS, HE DISPROVED THE LAW OF GRAVITY WHEN HE ASCENDED INTO HAVEN;
IN ECONOMICS, HE DISPROVED THE LAW OF DIMINISHING RETURN BY FEEDING 5000 MEN WITH TWO FISHES; 5 LOAVES OF BREAD;
IN MEDICINE, HE CURED THE SICK AND THE BLIND WITHOUT ADMINISTERING A SINGLE DOSE OF DRUGS,
IN HISTORY, HE IS THE BEGINNING AND THE END;
IN GOVERNMENT, HE SAID THAT HE SHALL BE CALLED WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, PRINCE OF PEACE;
IN RELIGION, HE SAID NO ONE COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT THROUGH HIM;
SO. WHO IS HE? HE IS JESUS!

JOIN ME AND LET'S CELEBRATE HIM;
HE IS WORTHY.

THE EYES BEHOLDING THIS MESSAGE SHALL NOT BEHOLD EVIL, AND THE MOUTH SAYING AMEN TO THIS PRAYER SHALL SMILE FOREVER. REMAIN IN GOD AND SEEK HIS FACE ALWAYS. AMEN
IN GOD I'VE FOUND EVERYTHING!

The Greatest Man in History Jesus had no servants, yet they called Him Master. Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher. Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer. He had no army, yet kings feared Him.. He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world. He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him. He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today. I feel honored to serve such a Leader who loves us! If you believe in God and in Jesus Christ His Son .. send this to all on your buddy list.
If not just ignore it. If you ignore it, just remember that Jesus said 'If you deny me before man, I will deny you before my Father.

Love This Comeback

2008-02-14T11:02:00.002-07:00

A friend wrote me and said her son in California said:

One of my sons serves in the military. He is still stateside, here in California He called me yesterday to let me know how warm and welcoming people were to him and his troops everywhere he goes, telling me how people shake their hands and thank them for being willing to serve and fight for not only our own freedoms , but so that others may have them also. But he also told me about an incident in the grocery store he stopped at yesterday on his way home from the base. He said that ahead of several people in front of him stood a woman dressed in a burk ha. He said when she got to the cashier she loudly remarked about the U.S. flag lapel pin the cashier wore on her smock. The cashier reached up and touched the pin, and said proudly, 'Yes, I always wear it and probably always will.' The woman in the burk ha then asked the cashier when she was going to stop bombing her countrymen, explaining that she was Iraqi. A gentleman standing behind my son stepped forward. Putting his arm around my son's shoulders and nodding towards my son, he said in a calm and gentle voice to the Iraqi woman: 'Lady, hundreds of thousands of men and women like this young man have fought and died so that YOU could stand here, in MY country and accuse a check-out cashier of bombing YOUR countrymen. It is my belief that had you been this outspoken in YOUR own country, we wouldn't need to be there today. But, hey, if you have now learned how to speak out so loudly and clearly, I'll gladly buy you a ticket and pay your way back to Iraq so you can straighten out the mess in YOUR country that you are obviously here in MY country to avoid. ' Everyone within hearing distance cheered!

ROAD RAGE

2008-02-13T15:16:00.002-07:00

This was sent to me via my e-mail--

> A man was being tailgated by a stressed out woman on a busy boulevard. Suddenly, the light turned yellow, just in front of him. He did the right thing, stopping at the crosswalk, even though he could have beaten the red light by accelerating through the intersection. The tailgating woman was furious and honked her horn, screaming in frustration as she missed her chance to get through the intersection, dropping her cell phone and makeup. As she was still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and looked up into the face of a very serious police officer. The officer ordered her to exit her car with her hands up. He took her to the police station where she was searched, finger printed, photographed, and placed in a holding cell. After a couple of hours, a policeman approached the cell and opened the door. She was escorted back to the booking desk where the arresting officer was waiting with her personal effects. He said, "I'm
very sorry for this mistake. You see, I pulled up behind your car while you were blowing your horn, flipping off the guy in front of you, and cussing a blue streak at him. I noticed the 'What Would Jesus Do' bumper sticker, the 'Choose Life' License plate holder, the 'Follow Me to Sunday-School' bumper Sticker, And the chrome-plated Christian fish emblem on the trunk, Naturally... I assumed you had stolen the car." Priceless

MAKING THE BEST OF LIFE

2008-02-08T11:27:00.000-07:00

By Rev Ray Southerland

John 10:9--10

What a silly title for today's sermon. Everyone that I've talked to says, yes, to wanting a better life. You see everyone wants a easier as well as a better life. Isn't that correct? I know I sure would love having a better and an easier life to live. I hate being crippled physically by all the strokes that I have had. I would love winning the "Hundred Zillion Dollar Lottery" and live on fat street and leave this lean life of poverty. How about you? So I say again. Who doesn't want a better life to live? Who doesn't want more peace and to have greater joy, contentment, fulfillment, or love in their lives right now.

ILLUS: There is a story told about Abraham Lincoln who was surprised one day when a rough-looking man drew a revolver and thrusted it into his face --"Abe" in looking at this deadly gun boring into his face figured that a debate or at least an argument was out of the question. -- "what seems to be the matter?" asked Lincoln, (with all the calmness and self-confidence he could muster.) -- "Well", replied the stranger, who did not appear at all upset, "some years ago I swore an oath to myself, that if I ever came across an uglier man than myself, I'd shoot him right on the spot." -- Well, a feeling of relief came over Mr Lincoln at this point. -- "Shoot Me!!" Lincoln said to the stranger, "--for if I'm an uglier man than you, I don't want to live."

We all know that looks have nothing to do with success in life or even your quality of life -- But what really matters is what is on the inside that counts and can make a difference in a person's life.

TODAY'S VERSES: John 10:7--10--V. 9-- Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. whereever they go, they will find green pastures. V. 10). -- The thief's purpose is to steal ad kill and destroy. My (Christ Jesus) purpose is to give live in all its fullness.

Now does this mean that we are, as Christians, going to live a life filled with ease and be trouble free. No, it only means that through life's hurts and triulations, we place our trust in Christ and He will walk with us through those hurts or life's tribulations.

When I hear or see this verse the theme for today, comes shouting through loud and clear: TODAY'S THEME: We need to step down from the pedestal we put ourselves on, and let Jesus give us life to it's fullness that He intended us to have in Him.

ILLUS: This week I have asked people to give me some suggestions as to what it means to have a better life. Here are some of their comments:

--Believe in miracles but don't depend on them.
--When you hear a kind word about your friend, tell him or her so.
--Spoil you spouse, not your Children.
--Remember, it's not your job to get people to like you. It's your job to like people.

---If your life-principals are Bible-based--then they are good; and if they are contredicting the Scriptures they are not good.

--HOW CAN WE MAKE THE BEST OUT OF LIFE?
--How can we acquire a life that is truly alive and full? I have 2 answers:

1) Pull "self" down
2) Place The Savior up

1st PULL "SELF" DOWN--Verse 9) Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me or through Christ Jesus will be saved. Wherever they go, they will find green pastures.

Does this mean they will drive fancy cars or motorcycles, live in fancy homes, or have the latest and best clothing styles? No!! God did not say we will be living in a rose garden, but living among the thrones of the rose bushes--I garentee you will get stuck (hurt, used, abused, robbed, and even killed in being a Christian. PULL "SELF"DOWN

ILLUS: It is said that Theodore Roosevelt, sometimes known--as Roosevelt the First, was a Presedent who thought very highly of himself. -- one of his children said, "Father always had to be the center of attention. --When he went to a wedding, he wanted to be the bride.....
......When he wnt to a funeral, he was sorry that he couldn't be the corpse."

---We all are infected by this great cancer called "importance of self". --It is perfectly acceptale as far as the world is concerned.

--But it is a malignancy in the eyes of God, because the cancer of thinking, "I am the Best", eats away the Lord's authority in our lives.

---And how does this cancer called "self" affect our daily lives? How does it affect us at home, at work, and in the world?

ILLUS: Someone wrote a brief article on "How to be Miserable". --It said, "think about yourself, talk about yourself, and use I as often as possible. Even be suspicious, jealous, and envious. Above all else never forgive a criticism, trust nobody but yourself. Always demand that people agree with your way of thinking. Always sulk if people are not grateful to you for all your favors you show towards them. Do as little as possible for others, so people will notice what you do within the community for others."

---Gal. 2:20 says, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Ghrist lives in me. The life I live in the body I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."

--Now in order to kill the cancer of "self" we need to be crucified. I'm not speaking literally, but SPIRITUALLY.

Number 2--PLACE THE SAVIOR UP--VERSE 10)--The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My (Christ) purpose is to give life in all its fullness.

ILLUS: Someone once said, "If our greatest need was information, God would have sent us an educator; if our greatest need was technology, God would have sent us a scientist; if our greatest need was money, God would have sent us an economist; if our greatest need was pleasure, God would have sent us an entertainer; but our greatest need was forgiveness, so God sent us a Savior."

--Thank God He sent us a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ --- We have only one Savior and He needs to be the dominant person in our lies -- He is the person around which our lives MUST revolve. ----1 Peter 3:15 says, "In your hearts set apart Christ as Lord....."

What Peter is saying here is that we must make Christ Lord of our lives. We want Him to be our Savior, but making Him-- Lord of our lives is a different matter and it is requirement of us Believers.

WISDOM COMING FROM THE PSALM

2007-12-09T19:06:00.000-07:00

Psalm 143:7--Hear me speedily, O Lord: my spirit faileth: hide out thy face from me, lest I be like unto them that go dow n into the pit.The road was slick with ice and snow. Cars were traveling along too fast for the conditions. Molly gripped the wheel and gritted her teeth. Suddenly, a car veered in front of her and went into a skid. Wide-eyed, Molly gasped, "Oh, Lord, help!"

The car passed by her with mere inches to spare, righted itself, and Molly was able to come to a stop, frightened, but unharmed. Once more Molly breathed out a short prayer, saying merely, "Thanks."

In our times of greatest need, lengthy prayers just won't come. Out sentiments and needs are already in God's heart, so all we need do is express them as our situation demands. The prayers of "help" and "thanks" are both acceptable in the sight of the Lord. Those two words say more than many wordy and pious prayers offered up in quieter times. How we pray is not so important as remembering to pray. The Lord hears them all.

Prayer:

There are times when I need Your answer right away, Lord. In times of distress, please be near at hand. Hear my short prayers, and heed them quickly. Amen.

THIS WEEKS SUNDAY MORNING SERMON: CHRISTMAS IS PEACE BEYOND COMPARE--

2007-12-07T15:40:00.000-07:00

Please turn in your Bibles to The Old Testament's Book of B

THE SERMON:

WOW!! I can’t believe it is almost Christmas again! -- We are in the Advent season. -- There are 4 weeks of Advent leading up to our celebration of the birth of Christ. -- There are 4 candles in the Advent wreath that represents a gift to each one of us.
Let me begin this week with a story: Well, Advent is well upon us the Sunday School Teacher began. As this season starts some of the parents wanted to see what the children remembered from last years family devotional readings and in the Sunday School lessons of last year. So the first question asked that Sunday Morning was. "Who can tell me what gifts the four candles of Advent means?"
"Well," said the teacher after a short paws then glancing first at the children then at the parants. Eight-yr-old Luke jumps up and with his wisdom & enthusiasm as the oldest child present in school that day shouted, "There's Love, Joy, Peace, and ... and ... " Then from the back of the class, six year old Elise interrupts and screams, "I know, I know!" This was done in order to finish her brother’s sentence: "It’s - PEACE and QUIET!"
Why is Christmas one of the most amazing times of the year? -- It is amazing because at Christmas, Jesus gives us gifts that are beyond compare.
So this Christmas we are going to be looking at 3 gifts which are beyond compare: 1) Peace beyond Compare; 2) Joy beyond Compare; and 3) Hope beyond compare.
TODAY’S VERSES: Isaiah 9:6-7 - (6) 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. (7) 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.
TODAYS VERSES THOUGHT: The world seeks peace by getting rid of problems, but the Peace Jesus brings us is a peace despite the problems, not a peace without the problems.

What Does the World Say About PEACE?

If someone were to ask you “What is Peace?”, what would you say? -- Peace is something everyone wants, but no one knows exactly what it is or how to get it.
ILLUS: A former president of the Norwegian Academy of Sciences and historians from England, Egypt, Germany, and India have come up with some startling information: Since 3600 B.C. the world has known only 292 years of peace! During this period there have been 14,351 wars, large and small, in which 3.64 billion people have been killed. -- The value of the property destroyed would pay for a golden belt around the world 97.2 miles wide and 33 feet thick. -- Since 650 B.C. there have also been 1656 arms races, only 16 of which have not ended in war.
The remainder ended in the economic collapse of the countries involved. -- Moreover, in excess of 8000 peace treaties were made--and broken.
First, the Dictionary says that Peace means: - freedom from war; -tranquility; -mental calm; -quiet; -absence of violence. -- So peace seems to happen when we don’t have conflict, or when problems are not present, or when I am not anxious.

Second, When do we not have much peace?
1) When life’s POSITION is uncontrollable
2) When PEOPLE are unchangeable -
3) When PROBLEMS are unexplainable -
4) When PAIN is unbearable -
5) When the PAST is unforgive----Considering these, Peace seems impossible to achieve!

So how can we ever get peace?

The dictionary wasn’t a help here, So I went to the internet and looked up “Getting Peace” and found lots of ideas that people proposed to tell us how we could get peace.

One idea was MEDITATION . You know---- Hmmmmmmmm!!!
Another Idea was MEDICATION .... To tranquilize you?
Another Idea was MEDIATION .... For those at war
Another Idea was the MEDITERRANEAN aboard the “Queen of Peace” a 88’ schooner .... It said to “Come and take a break in this superb, air-conditioned motor-sailer which offers every facility for comfortable cruising. Her elegant interior has been stylishly finished.” -- So I can be at Peace until my money runs out ! -- People try to find peace in all sorts of places don’t they?? -- But those kinds never lasts.
BUT LISTEN! -- That’s because people think that PEACE is the ABSENCE of something. -- Today, I want us to learn we do not obtain peace by getting rid of all our problems, --but we obtain PEACE by the ADDITION of something.
The Barna Research Group reported that Eighty-two percent of regular Bible readers described themselves as "at peace" compared to 58 percent of those who said they never read the Bible.

II. What Does God Say About PEACE?

---- The Bible term for peace is this word “Shalom” which comes from a Hebrew word means to be COMPLETE, WHOLE OR SOUND.
But don’t you think that most people in our world today are not whole or healthy and do not have a good relationship with those living around them ---let alone with God“
To be at peace in God’s thinking is to be healthy, to be whole, to be in a solid, dependable condition, and to have good relationships - with other people and also with God.
And THAT is the gift that Jesus came offering us. -- In our verses today Isaiah says that Jesus will be called the “Prince of Peace”
The verse also says that He will establish an eternal peace (which is within us).
Here’s A TRUTH: Peace is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of God.
ILLUS: In 1555, Nicholas Ridley was burned at the stake because of his witness for Christ. -- On the night before Ridley's execution, his brother offered to remain with him in the prison chamber to be of assistance and comfort. -- Nicholas declined the offer and replied that he meant to go to bed and sleep as quietly as ever he did in his life. -- Because he knew the peace of God, he could rest in the strength of the everlasting arms of his Lord to meet his need. So can we!
That very first Christmas, Jesus brought peace. -- The angels proclaimed it to the shepherds on the hills - do you remember what they said?
--Luke 2:14 - “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”
God promises to give peace to those on whom his favor rests--which is WHO? -- On those who receive his Son Jesus Christ.
The peace that God offers to each and every one of us is a gift that is ours for the taking and can bring health and wholeness to our lives - physically, emotionally and socially.
John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Some of you might think that peace with problems is no peace at all. But remember that when the bible talks about Peace is not absence of problems, but the addition of something you need to be whole. Someone wrote: “Peace doesn’t come with the absence of the storm; it comes in the presence of the storm because Jesus is walking there beside us and we’ve got our eyes on Him.”

Emmanuel. God with us. He who resided in Heaven, co-equal and co-eternal with the Father and the Spirit, willingly descended into our world. -- He breathed our air, felt our pain, knew our sorrows, and died for our sins. -- He didn't come to frighten us, but to show us the way to warmth and safety, and Peace.

A Nigerian woman who is a physician at a great teaching hospital in the United States came out of the crowd today to say something kind about the lecture a Doctor had just given. -- She introduced herself using an American name. --
"What's your African name?" he asked. -- She immediately gave it to him, several syllables long with a musical sound to it. -- "What does the name mean?" he asked. -- She answered, "It means 'Child who takes the anger away.'" -- When I inquired as to why she would have been given this name, she said, "My parents had been forbidden by their parents to marry. -- But they loved each other so much that they defied the family opinions and married anyway. -- For several years they were ostracized from both their families. -- Then my mother became pregnant with me. -- And when the grandparents held me in their arms for the first time, the walls of hostility came down. -- I became the one who swept the anger away. And that's the name my mother and father gave me." --- The doctor told her that her name would be a suitable one for Jesus.

Conclusion
----This Christmas, God offers you a gift beyond compare in the form of Peace.

---Have you got peace in your life at the moment. I’m not asking whether you are currently problem free or not in any fights. I’m asking whether your life is whole, complete, full and perfect? If it is not, you have the opportunity to find Peace this Christmas. Jesus is the Prince of Peace who can bring you peace. It is yours for the taking- will you receive it this Christmas Season. My God Bless you----Pastor Ray

HOW TO FOLLOW CHRIST

2007-11-29T13:56:00.000-07:00

Do you know what is pictured on the Australian coat of arms and why? Well, it is two animals—the emu, a flightless bird —and the kangaroo. They were chosen for their common characteristics that appealed to our Australian brothers and sisters. Both the kangaroo and the emu can move only forward, not back. The emu's three-toed foot causes it to fall if it tries to go backwards. And the kangaroo is prevented from moving in reverse by its large tail . . . . You know, people who truly choose to follow Jesus will become like the emu and kangaroo—moving only forward, never back.

Following Jesus is a sanctification process that you live everyday of you life. Today I want to talk about being a follower of Christ. I feel that many people think they are following our Lord when they are not. Here are some examples of things that they do, while assuming that they are true followers : some merely advertise that they are a Christian. Others just come to Church on Sunday. And some of these so called Christians even help with a Church Ministry if it's a requirement to look like a follower of Christ. There is really not much else they do, and so I call these people, "sit-on-the-fence", Luke-warm Believers.

Now don't get me wrong—it's our duty to proclaim our Christianity. And—we need to attend Church to hear God's Word, and to fellowship with other Believers. And—because we love Christ, we should really want to, get involved in ministries in our local Church. But I believe there's much more than these things, to being a true follower of Christ.

Before we even begin to follow anyone, we have to believe that they will lead us where we want to go. Let me explain this point with a true story. You see, a young ministry student was officiating at the funeral of a war veteran. The dead man's military friends wished to have a part in the service at the funeral home. So, they asked the ministry student to lead them to the casket, stand with them for a quiet moment of remembrance, then lead them out through the side door. He proceeded to do this, but while they followed him out—marching with military precision—he led them into a broom closet. They had to quickly retreat out the correct door.

When we follow Christ, we trust Him to take us where He promised to take us. For this sermon, I want to use one of my favorite disciples, Peter, to illustrate how to really follow Jesus. He was the only disciple to answer when Jesus asked them who they thought He was. It was Peter who walked on the water to get to Jesus, while the other disciples merely watched. In John 21:19, after telling Peter to feed His sheep, He tells him , "Follow Me!" Now wait,—wasn't that also the first command, that Jesus gave to the disciples when He called them to Him? And, wasn't it the first command He gave you when He called you to Him? Turn to 1Peter 2:21 and see what Peter says about our duty to follow Christ. "To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps." But how do we follow Christ's example? Take out the Following Christ steps, all starting with "W" , the last letter in FOLLOW.

First, Follow your Father's WILL! Christ came to do His Father's will. In Hebrews 10:7 Jesus says, "Then I said, 'Here I am—I have come to do your will, O God" How about our example, Peter? Let's turn Luke 5, where Jesus has been teaching to the crowds of people from Peter's boat. Afterwards, He tells Peter to go to deep water, "and let down the nets for a catch." In Vs.5 Peter's complains that they've "worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I'll do it." Did you grasp that? Peter says , "But because you say so!!" The KJV says, "But at thy Word". We are told to do the will of God. In Mark 3:35 Jesus says, "Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother." Do you react the way Peter did, by saying, "I'll do it at thy word, Lord, because you say so—!!" If you want to do the Father's WILL —then the Bible says you must die to sin and yourself! Follow His WILL!

Second, Declare your Father's WORD! Jesus says in John 17:8, "For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them." Christ used the Word of God to defeat Satan. You and I can also use the Word of God against Satan. Jesus used the Word to preach to the world. Peter declared God's word in his great sermon at Pentecost in the Acts 2. Three thousand people were saved that day with that one sermon from Peter. We need to study God's Word to increase our faith, and then to point others to Christ! Declare His WORD!

Third, Walk in Your Father's WAYS! Acts 10:38 says "Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him." Peter walked in His ways by becoming Christ's apostle in the church. Let me tell you about a situation that could happen to you. See if you could have calmly done what this woman did. A lady was having trouble getting her car started after it stalled at a light. A gentlemen (not)—in the car behind her, was impatient! He kept blowing his horn, very loudly. Finally, the lady, quietly got out of her car. She calmly walked back to him. She kindly said to him, "Sir, I have a problem with my car. Would you mind going up and seeing if you could get it started for me? — And I'll be glad to stay back here and honk your horn for you!" (pause) We need to Follow Christ by actually expressing Him—through us—to others. Give a kind word, or a smile to ones worse off than you, or to a stranger. Lend a hand to someone who doesn't even ask for it. Walk in His WAYS!!

Fourth, Fulfill Your Father's WORK! John 17:4 says, "I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do." Jesus fulfilled His task on the Cross. Peter fulfilled God's work by feeding the sheep, as Jesus had commanded him to do, even though it brought trouble and persecution. God has ordained His work for each one of us to do, also. As in the story I told before, some people do more honking than helping. There are more critics than builders, and more talkers than workers. You and I must share Christ as the Great Commission commands! We must seek to win the lost to Him. While on earth, you and I must Fulfill His WORK!

CONCLUSION: Life following Christ is not a Picnic. But what a change you and I can make to the sinful condition of this world. (pause) What it takes is no longer walking where it's easy for us. We need to leave all to follow where our Leader walks. Who of us would not consider it an honor to FOLLOW Jesus? I pray that you think about it.

PRAYER IS COMMUNICATION

2007-11-13T16:55:00.000-07:00

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

Today’s Bible Verse: “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”--Romans 8:26 KJV

PRAYER IS COMMUNICATION

I love this verse for it strengthens my faith in God. How does that happen? Well when we pray the Holy Spirit helps us with our daily problems and gives us the faith in knowing that God will help us while we are praying. What is so interesting about this verse is that we don’t even know what we should pray for or as a matter of fact how we are to pray as we really should. Praise God the Holy Spirit actually prays for us and lifts our words up to God the Father with such feeling that it cannot be expressed in words.

Martin Luther once said that to be a Christian and not pray is impossible and it is like being alive and not breathing. What I mean by this is that what air is to our lungs and body prayer is to the soul. Yet I have learned through the years that it is so tragic that so few of us have really learned the lesson of daily praying. It is very interesting that we pray when tragedy happens in our lives . We even pray when there is illness. But that seems to really be the only time we pray.

I was surprised to talk to someone the other day and they told me that prayer in today’s world is just a chance happening. So I was thinking today, is that true with all people? Do people really think that prayer is some hit or miss arrow that is shot into the sky? Do people think that prayer is some type of spiritual lottery ticket and if you have the right numbers on your prayer God hears it? Well if that were true, I think that many people down through the canyons of time who have been very deceived. But I really don’t thing that is what our verse today is saying. Why do I say that? Well because Jesus considered prayer to be more than a long shot in the dark, because He spent a great deal of time in prayer. He prayed through the night on many occasions. He even spent many hours in the Garden praying before going to the cross.

You see prayer is a conversation between God and His children. So the question arises as to what should we pray about? The answer is simply pray about everything. A great theologian once said that we should pray by pouring out everything that moves our hearts--every disappointment, every temptation that comes our way. Every problem we have with people in our lives in other words everything that weighs us down.

James wrote in Chapter 4:2 “You do not have because you do not ask”. So in conclusion why not put prayer into practice everyday of your life? You may find that it will change your life and bring you closer to God. May God Bless and keep you. Pastor Ray

GUIDEPOST---BLOOPERS FROM THE PULPIT

2007-11-05T11:21:00.000-07:00

I love humor because I feel that God doesn't want us to go around in our daily routines with long seriouse faces. I really believe that God made us and wants us to be joyful so that people will desire to be around us.

I'm especially thankful for Guidepost in publishing this little booket "Bloopers from the Pulpit. I hope you will enjoy these funny situations and events.

"After a worship service a preacher announced: "the class on prophecy has been canceled due to unforeseen circumstances"."--Georg Goldtrap, Madison TN.

Pastor's Blooper: "Tis being Easter Sunday, we will ask Mres. Johnson to come forward and lay an egg on the altar".." Via Rev. Hallack Greider

"The baby was baptized, the Christening service was drawing to a close, and the five year old brother whispered loudly, "Mom, when does he break the bottle of champagn over the baby's head?" --Rev w. Shelton Kilgore

"The minister, leading prayers, was being carried away by his own exuberance. He began: "O Thou, who rulest the raging of the sea and calms the fieceness of the wins..." He then seemed to lose himself for a moment, but soon carried on: "....bless our wives." " --The Desert Wind Church, Scottsdale, AZ