Order of Worship
Sunday, October 1, 2006
Announcements-Roger Hamm
Worship Leader-David Carriger
144 O Worship the King
153 Come, Let Us Worship and Bow Down
66 Doxology
77 Glorify Thy Name
Prayer
Scripture: John 3:14-17
337 Hallelujah! What a Savior
Communion
Contribution
Dismiss 2x2
538 My Hope is Built on Nothing Less
Message-Evan Burdan
Invitation: 567 Restore My Soul
Announcements-Roger Hamm
Closing Prayer
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Friday, September 29, 2006
Byron Nelson Dies at 94
Legendary golfer Byron Nelson, a faithful church member, dies at 94
By Bobby Ross Jr.The Christian Chronicle
Legendary golfer Byron Nelson, a lifelong Church of Christ member known as much for his gentlemanly conduct as his 52 PGA Tour victories, died Tuesday at age 94.
Nelson died at his Roanoke, Texas, home, according to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner.
Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Richland Hills church.
"We've lost a great man," Abilene Christian University President Royce Money said of Nelson, a former ACU trustee who long supported the university's golf program. "Byron Nelson was a wonderful Christian example whose life had a profound and lasting impact on everyone he met."
Nicknamed “Lord Byron,” Nelson established one of the most enduring records in sports when he won 11 straight tournaments — and a total of 18 — in his remarkable 1945 season.
In an interview with The Christian Chronicle at his home last year, Nelson discussed his commitment to attending services every Sunday and Wednesday night, using a scooter to maneuver his way through the crowd.“I wouldn’t know what to do without being at church,” Nelson, a member of the Richland Hills church, told the Chronicle. “The good Lord blesses me every day.”For Nelson – who is survived by his second wife, Peggy – The Streak more than six decades ago always seemed less important than what he accomplished afterward.For 39 years, he hosted the EDS Byron Nelson Championship, his namesake PGA Tour event. In recent years, the tournament at the Four Seasons Resort in Las Colinas generated more money for charity than any other PGA tournament.In all, it has raised more than $82 million for Salesmanship Club Youth and Family Centers, which provide education and mental health services for thousands of Dallas area children and their families.“It has become the best thing that has ever happened to me in golf, better than winning the Masters or U.S. Open or 11 in a row,” Nelson wrote in his 1993 autobiography, “How I Played the Game.”The reason: “Because it helps people.”
For those who knew Nelson, that attitude epitomized how he approached life.In the Chronicle story last year, Richland Hills preaching minister Rick Atchley said Nelson played Santa Claus in the church Christmas program and taught a class for teenagers.But Atchley said his favorite memory came soon after Nelson placed membership there.“I heard someone calling my name with great eagerness,” Atchley said. “I turned around, and there was Byron, about 90 at the time, walking between the pews on two canes as fast as he could get to me.“When I asked what the rush was, he said he just wanted me to know how blessed he was by the sermon. That’s pure Byron — not impressed with himself, but letting you know that he is impressed with you.”
When the Hilltop church started in Roanoke several years ago, it had no baptistery. So, when a young couple accepted Nelson’s offer to baptize them, he called a nearby congregation in Justin.“He does not have good knees, but I have seen him take people and baptize them when he didn’t feel terribly good,” James Vinzant, minister of the Alliance church in Justin, said last year. “But he did it because he loves the Lord so much and he loves the church so much.”
Nelson’s Church of Christ roots ran deep.His mother, Madge Allen Nelson, who lived to be 98, was a Bible student and teacher. Raised a Baptist, she became a Church of Christ member at age 18. His Presbyterian father, John Byron Nelson Sr., was baptized in a Church of Christ soon after meeting the golfer’s mother. Byron Sr., who died at 77, later served as an elder at the Roanoke church. Nelson was born Feb. 4, 1912, on his family’s cotton farm near Waxahachie, Texas. By age 11, his family moved to Fort Worth, where a bout with typhoid fever dropped his weight from 124 pounds to 65. Somehow, he survived, but his high fever left him unable to have children.Soon after his baptism at age 12, he started caddying at Glen Garden Country Club. By age 14, he beat another future legend — Ben Hogan — to win the Caddie Championship.Eight years later, while working as a golf pro in Texarkana, Texas, he met a tiny brunette with pretty brown eyes during Sunday school at the Walnut Street church. Louise Shofner, the daughter of longtime church elder D.A. Shofner, would become his wife of 50 years. In his early years, Nelson made barely enough to live. In 1936, he earned $750 by winning the Metropolitan Open. But during the tournament, he couldn’t afford to eat in the clubhouse. Instead, he sat outside, eating a hot dog and drinking a Coke.After that tournament, Nelson was offered $500 to endorse a cigarette called 20 Grand. Never a smoker, he resisted the offer. But needing the money, he finally agreed.“I didn’t realize (that) it meant so much,” he told the Chronicle. “In about a month after the ads broke, I got the worst mail I’ve ever gotten, from Sunday school teachers, from school teachers. ... Well, I was just mortified.”When the cigarette company refused to take back its money, he said, “I toughed it out and I prayed about that more than any one thing. That shows what God will do for you. I promised him that I would never do anything like that again.”
While he played on Sundays, Nelson said he always found a way to attend church services, either in the morning or at night. “People say, ‘How in the world did you go to church?’ And my answer to that is, you can do things that you feel you need to do.”
When Louise died in 1985 after suffering two severe strokes, Nelson was devastated. But soon afterward, he said, God blessed him with a second wife. He had first met Peggy Simmons — 33 years his junior — at a charity golf tournament in 1981.Several years ago, a golf fan looking for Nelson’s ranch near Fort Worth stopped at the Roanoke Church of Christ and asked if the “janitor” knew how to get there. Much to the fan’s surprise, the man sweeping the church floor smiled and replied, “Yes, that’s where I live.”Last year, that story drew a chuckle from the 93-year-old Nelson, relaxing at his ranch house below a framed needlepoint of his winning 1937 Masters scorecard, parakeets chirping in his living room as cattle grazed outside his window.“A small church like that, the members take care of it,” he said simply.
Sept. 26, 2006
By Bobby Ross Jr.The Christian Chronicle
Legendary golfer Byron Nelson, a lifelong Church of Christ member known as much for his gentlemanly conduct as his 52 PGA Tour victories, died Tuesday at age 94.
Nelson died at his Roanoke, Texas, home, according to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner.
Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Richland Hills church.
"We've lost a great man," Abilene Christian University President Royce Money said of Nelson, a former ACU trustee who long supported the university's golf program. "Byron Nelson was a wonderful Christian example whose life had a profound and lasting impact on everyone he met."
Nicknamed “Lord Byron,” Nelson established one of the most enduring records in sports when he won 11 straight tournaments — and a total of 18 — in his remarkable 1945 season.
In an interview with The Christian Chronicle at his home last year, Nelson discussed his commitment to attending services every Sunday and Wednesday night, using a scooter to maneuver his way through the crowd.“I wouldn’t know what to do without being at church,” Nelson, a member of the Richland Hills church, told the Chronicle. “The good Lord blesses me every day.”For Nelson – who is survived by his second wife, Peggy – The Streak more than six decades ago always seemed less important than what he accomplished afterward.For 39 years, he hosted the EDS Byron Nelson Championship, his namesake PGA Tour event. In recent years, the tournament at the Four Seasons Resort in Las Colinas generated more money for charity than any other PGA tournament.In all, it has raised more than $82 million for Salesmanship Club Youth and Family Centers, which provide education and mental health services for thousands of Dallas area children and their families.“It has become the best thing that has ever happened to me in golf, better than winning the Masters or U.S. Open or 11 in a row,” Nelson wrote in his 1993 autobiography, “How I Played the Game.”The reason: “Because it helps people.”
For those who knew Nelson, that attitude epitomized how he approached life.In the Chronicle story last year, Richland Hills preaching minister Rick Atchley said Nelson played Santa Claus in the church Christmas program and taught a class for teenagers.But Atchley said his favorite memory came soon after Nelson placed membership there.“I heard someone calling my name with great eagerness,” Atchley said. “I turned around, and there was Byron, about 90 at the time, walking between the pews on two canes as fast as he could get to me.“When I asked what the rush was, he said he just wanted me to know how blessed he was by the sermon. That’s pure Byron — not impressed with himself, but letting you know that he is impressed with you.”
When the Hilltop church started in Roanoke several years ago, it had no baptistery. So, when a young couple accepted Nelson’s offer to baptize them, he called a nearby congregation in Justin.“He does not have good knees, but I have seen him take people and baptize them when he didn’t feel terribly good,” James Vinzant, minister of the Alliance church in Justin, said last year. “But he did it because he loves the Lord so much and he loves the church so much.”
Nelson’s Church of Christ roots ran deep.His mother, Madge Allen Nelson, who lived to be 98, was a Bible student and teacher. Raised a Baptist, she became a Church of Christ member at age 18. His Presbyterian father, John Byron Nelson Sr., was baptized in a Church of Christ soon after meeting the golfer’s mother. Byron Sr., who died at 77, later served as an elder at the Roanoke church. Nelson was born Feb. 4, 1912, on his family’s cotton farm near Waxahachie, Texas. By age 11, his family moved to Fort Worth, where a bout with typhoid fever dropped his weight from 124 pounds to 65. Somehow, he survived, but his high fever left him unable to have children.Soon after his baptism at age 12, he started caddying at Glen Garden Country Club. By age 14, he beat another future legend — Ben Hogan — to win the Caddie Championship.Eight years later, while working as a golf pro in Texarkana, Texas, he met a tiny brunette with pretty brown eyes during Sunday school at the Walnut Street church. Louise Shofner, the daughter of longtime church elder D.A. Shofner, would become his wife of 50 years. In his early years, Nelson made barely enough to live. In 1936, he earned $750 by winning the Metropolitan Open. But during the tournament, he couldn’t afford to eat in the clubhouse. Instead, he sat outside, eating a hot dog and drinking a Coke.After that tournament, Nelson was offered $500 to endorse a cigarette called 20 Grand. Never a smoker, he resisted the offer. But needing the money, he finally agreed.“I didn’t realize (that) it meant so much,” he told the Chronicle. “In about a month after the ads broke, I got the worst mail I’ve ever gotten, from Sunday school teachers, from school teachers. ... Well, I was just mortified.”When the cigarette company refused to take back its money, he said, “I toughed it out and I prayed about that more than any one thing. That shows what God will do for you. I promised him that I would never do anything like that again.”
While he played on Sundays, Nelson said he always found a way to attend church services, either in the morning or at night. “People say, ‘How in the world did you go to church?’ And my answer to that is, you can do things that you feel you need to do.”
When Louise died in 1985 after suffering two severe strokes, Nelson was devastated. But soon afterward, he said, God blessed him with a second wife. He had first met Peggy Simmons — 33 years his junior — at a charity golf tournament in 1981.Several years ago, a golf fan looking for Nelson’s ranch near Fort Worth stopped at the Roanoke Church of Christ and asked if the “janitor” knew how to get there. Much to the fan’s surprise, the man sweeping the church floor smiled and replied, “Yes, that’s where I live.”Last year, that story drew a chuckle from the 93-year-old Nelson, relaxing at his ranch house below a framed needlepoint of his winning 1937 Masters scorecard, parakeets chirping in his living room as cattle grazed outside his window.“A small church like that, the members take care of it,” he said simply.
Sept. 26, 2006
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Elders Meeting Minutes (September 27)
As an additional communication tool between the Shepherds and the Central congregation, we will be distributing minutes from our weekly Elders’ Meetings. We hope to keep the Central Family informed of information items that might be of interest in ministry here at Central. Minutes will also be posted on the following web site: http://worshipreflections.blogspot.com/
September 27, 2006
Elder of the Month: David Carriger
Roger Hamm led us in prayer.
Items Discussed:
Considerable time was spent examining and discussing the Mission work supported by the Central Church of Christ. Budget figures were discussed for the 2007 fiscal year.
Mission Support currently has a budget of $24,080 for 2006.
Current Mission support goes to the following: Barry Bergsten (Prison Ministry); Emporia State University Student Center; Max Dauner (France); Niranjana Rao Mathi (India); Paul Kee; Predisan; Raja Sekhar Mathi (India); Russel Bell (India); Search of the Lords Way; Student Mission Trips; Tallgrass Christian Camp; and World Bible School.
Discussion on possible additions of new mission efforts in Africa.
Elders had a good visit with Peter Manuel from Cape Town on Monday evening at the Lonard’s.
Elders wish to encourage our missionary efforts locally and also worldwide.
Discussion of a World Map being displayed at Central with our WBS and Mission efforts displayed.
Elders discussed the importance of our local mission efforts (Central Youth Ministries).
Discussion of a possible job description for an Involvement Minister.
Elders discussed goals and objectives for 2007. An Elders’ planning/work session will take place on Thursday, October 12 to discuss 2007 plans as well as 5-10 year direction.
Gary Souder led a prayer for God’s direction.
Need a volunteer to take over the laundry ministry. Cleaning of baptistery garments and kitchens towels. If anyone can help with this ministry contact Ruthann Souder.
Men’s Retreat discussed. Encourage all men to attend.
A pager has been given to the Elders for encouragement.
Rex Allen gave a report on a possible series of lessons focusing on “The Family Under Attack”.
Roger Hamm discussed the Children’s Ministry 2x2 Program that will be undergoing change in the near future.
Gary Souder discussed the Senior Saints meeting held on Sunday. Good meeting with many possible service projects and fellowship opportunities for the near future.
Gary Souder informed the group that the Drielings are moving on October 28 and will need some help.
David Carriger gave a brief Youth Committee report on upcoming activities. The York College Night was successful. Discussion on support for Youth in Action was discussed.
Prayer for Hurting/Sick Members and Families
The Elders spent time in prayer (led by Jerry Myers) for individual family members that are hurting physically, as well as spiritually.
Meeting concluded at 10:40 p.m.
September 27, 2006
Elder of the Month: David Carriger
Roger Hamm led us in prayer.
Items Discussed:
Considerable time was spent examining and discussing the Mission work supported by the Central Church of Christ. Budget figures were discussed for the 2007 fiscal year.
Mission Support currently has a budget of $24,080 for 2006.
Current Mission support goes to the following: Barry Bergsten (Prison Ministry); Emporia State University Student Center; Max Dauner (France); Niranjana Rao Mathi (India); Paul Kee; Predisan; Raja Sekhar Mathi (India); Russel Bell (India); Search of the Lords Way; Student Mission Trips; Tallgrass Christian Camp; and World Bible School.
Discussion on possible additions of new mission efforts in Africa.
Elders had a good visit with Peter Manuel from Cape Town on Monday evening at the Lonard’s.
Elders wish to encourage our missionary efforts locally and also worldwide.
Discussion of a World Map being displayed at Central with our WBS and Mission efforts displayed.
Elders discussed the importance of our local mission efforts (Central Youth Ministries).
Discussion of a possible job description for an Involvement Minister.
Elders discussed goals and objectives for 2007. An Elders’ planning/work session will take place on Thursday, October 12 to discuss 2007 plans as well as 5-10 year direction.
Gary Souder led a prayer for God’s direction.
Need a volunteer to take over the laundry ministry. Cleaning of baptistery garments and kitchens towels. If anyone can help with this ministry contact Ruthann Souder.
Men’s Retreat discussed. Encourage all men to attend.
A pager has been given to the Elders for encouragement.
Rex Allen gave a report on a possible series of lessons focusing on “The Family Under Attack”.
Roger Hamm discussed the Children’s Ministry 2x2 Program that will be undergoing change in the near future.
Gary Souder discussed the Senior Saints meeting held on Sunday. Good meeting with many possible service projects and fellowship opportunities for the near future.
Gary Souder informed the group that the Drielings are moving on October 28 and will need some help.
David Carriger gave a brief Youth Committee report on upcoming activities. The York College Night was successful. Discussion on support for Youth in Action was discussed.
Prayer for Hurting/Sick Members and Families
The Elders spent time in prayer (led by Jerry Myers) for individual family members that are hurting physically, as well as spiritually.
Meeting concluded at 10:40 p.m.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Worship 24-7
As believers, we are all familiar with the word worship. We are called to worship in a worship service. We are worshipping when we are singing hymns together. We worship Him together in song. Yet, where does worship take place? Is it in a building? Hopefully. But, is this the only place? Is worship synonymous with Sunday mornings?
These are questions that I have wondered throughout my Christian life. Upon reflecting on the Word of God, and the meaning of worship in my own life, I have come to realize that the Scriptural meaning of worship is very different than what I once believed.
In John 4:24 we see that the act of worship is from our spirit. We are told to worship in spirit and in truth. John says that worshippers that worship in spirit and in truth ' are the kind of worshippers that the Father seeks'. Worship of the Almighty God is personal and expressed in many different ways. During his most trying time on Earth, Jesus was worshipping. Jesus worshipped by quoting Scripture in times of trial (John 4: 10). How often do we think of trials as an opportunity for worship? Quite rarely, I daresay. Paul told us to long for suffering (1 Peter 4:13). In times of trial we are taught to worship.
In worship we recognize what Jesus recognized in the desert, what Job recognized during his persecution, and what David recognized in his time of repentance. They knew that the Omnipotence, Omnipresence of Almighty God is UNCHANGING. We must recognize that it is not one's changing circumstances that should determine a heart attitude of worship. It is in times of suffering, as well as in times of blessings, that we are called to worship. The very passing of time signifies change. Yet, God is unchanging. Even though everything else is changing, He is not. Knowing this gives my heart a reason for worship!!
As I look at what Scripture has to say about worship, it is clear that worship is not just something that takes place on Sunday morning. Each day we are given new opportunities to worship the Lord with our lives and hearts.
How much richer our lives will be when we realize that worship is a daily heart attitude, and not just a congregational event. We can worship the Lord with every moment of our lives: be it while we are singing praises in the shower, or, quoting His promises throughout our busy day.
Focusing on the character and love of God will surely give each of us an unceasing motive for worship!
Kristene Diggins
These are questions that I have wondered throughout my Christian life. Upon reflecting on the Word of God, and the meaning of worship in my own life, I have come to realize that the Scriptural meaning of worship is very different than what I once believed.
In John 4:24 we see that the act of worship is from our spirit. We are told to worship in spirit and in truth. John says that worshippers that worship in spirit and in truth ' are the kind of worshippers that the Father seeks'. Worship of the Almighty God is personal and expressed in many different ways. During his most trying time on Earth, Jesus was worshipping. Jesus worshipped by quoting Scripture in times of trial (John 4: 10). How often do we think of trials as an opportunity for worship? Quite rarely, I daresay. Paul told us to long for suffering (1 Peter 4:13). In times of trial we are taught to worship.
In worship we recognize what Jesus recognized in the desert, what Job recognized during his persecution, and what David recognized in his time of repentance. They knew that the Omnipotence, Omnipresence of Almighty God is UNCHANGING. We must recognize that it is not one's changing circumstances that should determine a heart attitude of worship. It is in times of suffering, as well as in times of blessings, that we are called to worship. The very passing of time signifies change. Yet, God is unchanging. Even though everything else is changing, He is not. Knowing this gives my heart a reason for worship!!
As I look at what Scripture has to say about worship, it is clear that worship is not just something that takes place on Sunday morning. Each day we are given new opportunities to worship the Lord with our lives and hearts.
How much richer our lives will be when we realize that worship is a daily heart attitude, and not just a congregational event. We can worship the Lord with every moment of our lives: be it while we are singing praises in the shower, or, quoting His promises throughout our busy day.
Focusing on the character and love of God will surely give each of us an unceasing motive for worship!
Kristene Diggins
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Worshippers of the Cross (Part 3)
As Christians we have a daily victory because of the Cross. So many in our world are looking for true happiness, contentment in worldly ways.
Victory is only found through Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:55-58
55 "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
58 Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
As Christians we have victory. Faith is the victory. The cross gave us victory.
Victory is only found through Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:55-58
55 "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
58 Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
As Christians we have victory. Faith is the victory. The cross gave us victory.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Worshippers of the Cross (Part 2)
Why is the cross hated by several in the world today? Why do they hate the worshippers of the cross (Christians)? Three basic reasons:
1. It’s because of the Power that is found there.
See the Son of God died there to save a world from sin. He took all the filth, burdens and guilt on his back so we could be free from death and destruction. Only Jesus and his Father has that kind of power. Man likes to be powerful. In control. But if you wish to belong to Christ you have to give up that power and rely on him.
Colossians 2 talks about that power:
6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.
9 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, 10 and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority. 11In him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature, not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ, 12 having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.
13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, 14 having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross. 15 And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.
2. The Commitment That Must Be Made There
Jesus committed everything. He gave His life and we must also. Scares people to give up everything, to give up self.
Recent Newsweek poll was a little surprising. Americans and religion:
92% believe there is a God.
6% do not believe there is a God
2% said they didn’t know if God existed.
Atheism is not the problem in our society. The problem is with the 92% that believe there is a God, the majority do not have a relationship with Him. They have not made a commitment to accept His teaching and commit to live a Biblical lifestyle. God is not present in their lives.
Think about commitment in our society today?
Marriage
Family
Jobs
Respect for Authority
Respect for Self
Many just don’t want to make those types of commitments that must be made in their daily lives.
1 Peter 4:12-19 talks about the price of that commitment:
12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?
18 And, "If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"19 So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
3. Because it’s the only Hope the World Has
Hope is not found in a job. Not found in stuff. It can only be found in the Cross of our Lord and Savior.
People for the most part put their hope in themselves. They think that is what will carry them through life.
Thousands dieing each hour with no hope. Because they refuse to give up their self centered attitude and accept the cross as the only hope that man has.
I am so glad He was willing to die for us, to take our sins and nail them to the cross. I am thankful for the power and hope we have in Jesus Christ.
1. It’s because of the Power that is found there.
See the Son of God died there to save a world from sin. He took all the filth, burdens and guilt on his back so we could be free from death and destruction. Only Jesus and his Father has that kind of power. Man likes to be powerful. In control. But if you wish to belong to Christ you have to give up that power and rely on him.
Colossians 2 talks about that power:
6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.
9 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, 10 and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority. 11In him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature, not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ, 12 having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.
13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, 14 having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross. 15 And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.
2. The Commitment That Must Be Made There
Jesus committed everything. He gave His life and we must also. Scares people to give up everything, to give up self.
Recent Newsweek poll was a little surprising. Americans and religion:
92% believe there is a God.
6% do not believe there is a God
2% said they didn’t know if God existed.
Atheism is not the problem in our society. The problem is with the 92% that believe there is a God, the majority do not have a relationship with Him. They have not made a commitment to accept His teaching and commit to live a Biblical lifestyle. God is not present in their lives.
Think about commitment in our society today?
Marriage
Family
Jobs
Respect for Authority
Respect for Self
Many just don’t want to make those types of commitments that must be made in their daily lives.
1 Peter 4:12-19 talks about the price of that commitment:
12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?
18 And, "If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"19 So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
3. Because it’s the only Hope the World Has
Hope is not found in a job. Not found in stuff. It can only be found in the Cross of our Lord and Savior.
People for the most part put their hope in themselves. They think that is what will carry them through life.
Thousands dieing each hour with no hope. Because they refuse to give up their self centered attitude and accept the cross as the only hope that man has.
I am so glad He was willing to die for us, to take our sins and nail them to the cross. I am thankful for the power and hope we have in Jesus Christ.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Worshippers of the Cross
Latest News: Al Qaeda militants in Iraq vowed war on "worshippers of the cross" and protesters burned a papal effigy on Monday over Pope Benedict's comments on Islam, while Western churchmen and statesmen tried to calm passions. The statement by an umbrella group led by Iraq's branch of al Qaeda came after the Pontiff said on Sunday he was deeply sorry Muslims had been offended by his use of a medieval quotation on Islam and holy war.
I was intrigued by the statement that they vowe "war on the worshippers of the cross". Are those of us that have a relationship with Christ included in that militant statement?
As Christians we don't worship the cross but we do worship the one who died on the cross. The one who preached peace, love, forgiveness, kindness, humility, trust and mercy, He is the One that I want to proclaim the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Strange, the one who preached peace as well as his followers who try to be peaceful being singled out. Why are men so afraid of Jesus? Why are they afraid of his followers?
This will be our theme for 4th Sunday Praise. Hope to see you Sunday Night at Central!
I was intrigued by the statement that they vowe "war on the worshippers of the cross". Are those of us that have a relationship with Christ included in that militant statement?
As Christians we don't worship the cross but we do worship the one who died on the cross. The one who preached peace, love, forgiveness, kindness, humility, trust and mercy, He is the One that I want to proclaim the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Strange, the one who preached peace as well as his followers who try to be peaceful being singled out. Why are men so afraid of Jesus? Why are they afraid of his followers?
This will be our theme for 4th Sunday Praise. Hope to see you Sunday Night at Central!
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Elders Meeting Minutes (September 20)
Elders Meeting Minutes
As an additional communication tool between the Shepherds and the Central congregation, we will be distributing minutes from our weekly Elders’ Meetings on a trial basis during the month of September. We hope to keep the Central Family informed of information items that might be of interest in ministry here at Central. Please give us feedback if you feel this is something that you would like to see continue on a regular weekly basis. Minutes will also be posted on the following web site: http://worshipreflections.blogspot.com/
September 20, 2006
Elder of the Month: David Carriger
Diana Carriger (representing the Building Committee) visited with the Elders about possible building plans for the future Burlingame property. Several questions were asked about building in phases and total square feet. Diana will visit with the architect and then visit once again with the Elders.
Gary Souder led us in prayer for God’s Direction.
Other Items Discussed:
Appreciated Mario Tobias speaking on Sunday evening. He would like to return once again and visit with the Eldership about “Hawks for Christ”.
A report was given on the Youth/Children’s Leadership Ministry Meeting held on Sunday afternoon.
The York College Marriage Enrichment Seminar will be held on September 29-30. Several from Central will be attending. Vans will be taken to the seminar that weekend.
Rob and Sharon Easterling are interested in developing the Church Library for the congregation. They will be making a formal presentation to the eldership at a future date. Would like to see some money set aside in the 2007 budget for expansion of this needed ministry.
The Elders appreciate the amount of time and hard work the Search Committee performed over the past several months.
Men’s Retreat at Tallgrass will be held October 20-21. Kurt is working on a brochure to send out. Mike Farrar is the coordinator of this event.
Bill Carriger discussed the possibility of a High School retreat at Tallgrass in October. Will be visiting with Chris Stewart from Southwest to coordinate dates and time.
The 5th Sunday Singing on October 29 will be held at Tallgrass. Singing will begin at 4:00 p.m. with the Open House beginning at 3:00 p.m.
The storage unit is currently at Tallgrass.
Mission work was discussed. Appreciate receiving the good news of work in India and France on a regular basis. It was decided to send $200 to help with the storm damage in India.
Encourage members to participate in the Monday 4 the Master Program.
Prayer for Hurting/Sick Members and Families
The Elders spent time in prayer (led by Rex Allen) for individual family members that are hurting physically, as well as spiritually.
Meeting concluded at 9:40 p.m.
As an additional communication tool between the Shepherds and the Central congregation, we will be distributing minutes from our weekly Elders’ Meetings on a trial basis during the month of September. We hope to keep the Central Family informed of information items that might be of interest in ministry here at Central. Please give us feedback if you feel this is something that you would like to see continue on a regular weekly basis. Minutes will also be posted on the following web site: http://worshipreflections.blogspot.com/
September 20, 2006
Elder of the Month: David Carriger
Diana Carriger (representing the Building Committee) visited with the Elders about possible building plans for the future Burlingame property. Several questions were asked about building in phases and total square feet. Diana will visit with the architect and then visit once again with the Elders.
Gary Souder led us in prayer for God’s Direction.
Other Items Discussed:
Appreciated Mario Tobias speaking on Sunday evening. He would like to return once again and visit with the Eldership about “Hawks for Christ”.
A report was given on the Youth/Children’s Leadership Ministry Meeting held on Sunday afternoon.
The York College Marriage Enrichment Seminar will be held on September 29-30. Several from Central will be attending. Vans will be taken to the seminar that weekend.
Rob and Sharon Easterling are interested in developing the Church Library for the congregation. They will be making a formal presentation to the eldership at a future date. Would like to see some money set aside in the 2007 budget for expansion of this needed ministry.
The Elders appreciate the amount of time and hard work the Search Committee performed over the past several months.
Men’s Retreat at Tallgrass will be held October 20-21. Kurt is working on a brochure to send out. Mike Farrar is the coordinator of this event.
Bill Carriger discussed the possibility of a High School retreat at Tallgrass in October. Will be visiting with Chris Stewart from Southwest to coordinate dates and time.
The 5th Sunday Singing on October 29 will be held at Tallgrass. Singing will begin at 4:00 p.m. with the Open House beginning at 3:00 p.m.
The storage unit is currently at Tallgrass.
Mission work was discussed. Appreciate receiving the good news of work in India and France on a regular basis. It was decided to send $200 to help with the storm damage in India.
Encourage members to participate in the Monday 4 the Master Program.
Prayer for Hurting/Sick Members and Families
The Elders spent time in prayer (led by Rex Allen) for individual family members that are hurting physically, as well as spiritually.
Meeting concluded at 9:40 p.m.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
A Nugget
If you can start the day without caffeine; if you can get going without pep pills; if you can always be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains; if you can resist complaining and boring people with your troubles; if you can eat the same food every day, and seem happy about it; if you understand when your loved ones are too busy to give you any time; if you can take criticism and blame without resentment; if you can ignore a friends limited education and never correct him, if you can conquer stress without medical help--then you're probably the family dog.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
I Can See
I first noticed that my vision was getting worse when I hit 30 years old and I couldn’t focus very well at stoplights.
I remember driving in Wichita and I thought that stoplight sure is fuzzy. Didn’t really think that I needed glasses.
I made an appointment with an eye doctor and he told me the bad news, I needed glasses for my driving.
Our eyes are such special parts of our body.
Jo Pigg has struggled with her eyesight for a number of years. She has seen countless doctors trying to find ways that her sight might be restored. Even taking special injections so her eyes might improve.
Debbie and I know an older lady named Edna a member of the Church in Osage City that is blind. Amazing what she can do without any sight.
I have had several blind students who have graduated and went on to be great college students and very successful in life.
Sight amazes me. I could never imagine not being able to see a morning sunrise or a sunset over the ocean. Or being able to see Debbie’s beautiful face or the day when my little boys were born.
Being able to see is one of the greatest blessings we have.
I have thought about the story in John 9 for the past few days. About Jesus healing a blind man.
John 9
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
1As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"
3"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. 4As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. 5While I am in the world, I am the light of the world."
6Having said this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man's eyes. 7"Go," he told him, "wash in the Pool of Siloam" (this word means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing.
8His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, "Isn't this the same man who used to sit and beg?" 9Some claimed that he was. Others said, "No, he only looks like him." But he himself insisted, "I am the man."
10"How then were your eyes opened?" they demanded.
11He replied, "The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see."
12"Where is this man?" they asked him. "I don't know," he said.
Great story of a man that Jesus blessed with a great miracle.
What’s sad about the story is the aftermath. What happens next? His friends who should be very excited instead take him to the Pharisees.
13They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind. 14Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened the man's eyes was a Sabbath. 15Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. "He put mud on my eyes," the man replied, "and I washed, and now I see."
16Some of the Pharisees said, "This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath." But others asked, "How can a sinner do such miraculous signs?" So they were divided.
17Finally they turned again to the blind man, "What have you to say about him? It was your eyes he opened." The man replied, "He is a prophet."
18The Jews still did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they sent for the man's parents. 19"Is this your son?" they asked. "Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?"
20"We know he is our son," the parents answered, "and we know he was born blind. 21But how he can see now, or who opened his eyes, we don't know. Ask him. He is of age; he will speak for himself." 22His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews, for already the Jews had decided that anyone who acknowledged that Jesus was the Christ would be put out of the synagogue. 23That was why his parents said, "He is of age; ask him."
24A second time they summoned the man who had been blind. "Give glory to God," they said. "We know this man is a sinner."
25He replied, "Whether he is a sinner or not, I don't know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!"
26Then they asked him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?"
27He answered, "I have told you already and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?"
28Then they hurled insults at him and said, "You are this fellow's disciple! We are disciples of Moses! 29We know that God spoke to Moses, but as for this fellow, we don't even know where he comes from."
30The man answered, "Now that is remarkable! You don't know where he comes from, yet he opened my eyes. 31We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly man who does his will. 32Nobody has ever heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. 33If this man were not from God, he could do nothing."
34To this they replied, "You were steeped in sin at birth; how dare you lecture us!" And they threw him out.
This man just received the greatest gift one could ever imagine receiving sight. And no one was excited for him. They were too concerned about the petty issues revolving around the miracle.
Jesus now hears about what has happened.
35Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?"
36"Who is he, sir?" the man asked. "Tell me so that I may believe in him."
37Jesus said, "You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you."
38Then the man said, "Lord, I believe," and he worshiped him.
39Jesus said, "For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind."
40Some Pharisees who were with him heard him say this and asked, "What? Are we blind too?"
41Jesus said, "If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.
Sight: For those that can’t see so important. But there is something much worse than being physically blind, and that is spiritual blindness. When people are spiritually blind they do not believe in Jesus or obey him. They have no relationship with Jesus. Those individuals are outside of Christ and can not share in the blessings that he can give us inside a relationship with him. But when people trust in Jesus to save them, they are given "spiritual eyes" to see God’s will for their lives. They are able to see and understand things about the world and about God that other people do not see and understand. Psalm 119:18 says, "Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law." We must ask God for help for us to understand his ways more clearly. The good news is that God promises spiritual sight to those that ask for it!
We need to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
I remember driving in Wichita and I thought that stoplight sure is fuzzy. Didn’t really think that I needed glasses.
I made an appointment with an eye doctor and he told me the bad news, I needed glasses for my driving.
Our eyes are such special parts of our body.
Jo Pigg has struggled with her eyesight for a number of years. She has seen countless doctors trying to find ways that her sight might be restored. Even taking special injections so her eyes might improve.
Debbie and I know an older lady named Edna a member of the Church in Osage City that is blind. Amazing what she can do without any sight.
I have had several blind students who have graduated and went on to be great college students and very successful in life.
Sight amazes me. I could never imagine not being able to see a morning sunrise or a sunset over the ocean. Or being able to see Debbie’s beautiful face or the day when my little boys were born.
Being able to see is one of the greatest blessings we have.
I have thought about the story in John 9 for the past few days. About Jesus healing a blind man.
John 9
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
1As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"
3"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. 4As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. 5While I am in the world, I am the light of the world."
6Having said this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man's eyes. 7"Go," he told him, "wash in the Pool of Siloam" (this word means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing.
8His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, "Isn't this the same man who used to sit and beg?" 9Some claimed that he was. Others said, "No, he only looks like him." But he himself insisted, "I am the man."
10"How then were your eyes opened?" they demanded.
11He replied, "The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see."
12"Where is this man?" they asked him. "I don't know," he said.
Great story of a man that Jesus blessed with a great miracle.
What’s sad about the story is the aftermath. What happens next? His friends who should be very excited instead take him to the Pharisees.
13They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind. 14Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened the man's eyes was a Sabbath. 15Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. "He put mud on my eyes," the man replied, "and I washed, and now I see."
16Some of the Pharisees said, "This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath." But others asked, "How can a sinner do such miraculous signs?" So they were divided.
17Finally they turned again to the blind man, "What have you to say about him? It was your eyes he opened." The man replied, "He is a prophet."
18The Jews still did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they sent for the man's parents. 19"Is this your son?" they asked. "Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?"
20"We know he is our son," the parents answered, "and we know he was born blind. 21But how he can see now, or who opened his eyes, we don't know. Ask him. He is of age; he will speak for himself." 22His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews, for already the Jews had decided that anyone who acknowledged that Jesus was the Christ would be put out of the synagogue. 23That was why his parents said, "He is of age; ask him."
24A second time they summoned the man who had been blind. "Give glory to God," they said. "We know this man is a sinner."
25He replied, "Whether he is a sinner or not, I don't know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!"
26Then they asked him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?"
27He answered, "I have told you already and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?"
28Then they hurled insults at him and said, "You are this fellow's disciple! We are disciples of Moses! 29We know that God spoke to Moses, but as for this fellow, we don't even know where he comes from."
30The man answered, "Now that is remarkable! You don't know where he comes from, yet he opened my eyes. 31We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly man who does his will. 32Nobody has ever heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. 33If this man were not from God, he could do nothing."
34To this they replied, "You were steeped in sin at birth; how dare you lecture us!" And they threw him out.
This man just received the greatest gift one could ever imagine receiving sight. And no one was excited for him. They were too concerned about the petty issues revolving around the miracle.
Jesus now hears about what has happened.
35Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?"
36"Who is he, sir?" the man asked. "Tell me so that I may believe in him."
37Jesus said, "You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you."
38Then the man said, "Lord, I believe," and he worshiped him.
39Jesus said, "For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind."
40Some Pharisees who were with him heard him say this and asked, "What? Are we blind too?"
41Jesus said, "If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.
Sight: For those that can’t see so important. But there is something much worse than being physically blind, and that is spiritual blindness. When people are spiritually blind they do not believe in Jesus or obey him. They have no relationship with Jesus. Those individuals are outside of Christ and can not share in the blessings that he can give us inside a relationship with him. But when people trust in Jesus to save them, they are given "spiritual eyes" to see God’s will for their lives. They are able to see and understand things about the world and about God that other people do not see and understand. Psalm 119:18 says, "Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law." We must ask God for help for us to understand his ways more clearly. The good news is that God promises spiritual sight to those that ask for it!
We need to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
Monday, September 18, 2006
Hearthstone/Saturday 4 Savior/ Misc.
The ministry that has now gone on at Hearthstone for the past 8 years has been such a blessing to so many that live at that facility.
Our young people have blessed many residents over the years.
Last night over 35 from Central sang old and new hymns with the residents from Hearthstone led by our young men. I appreciate their servant hearts and willingness to lead praises to our Heavenly Father. Girls you are also a vital part of the ministry.
Thanks to the group that came out on Saturday evening for the Fall Saturday 4 the Savior. Carl and Mike did a great job reminding us about Jesus.
It's easy to just come and worship on Sunday morning. I want to encourage everyone to become a part of the body at Central. So many people have stepped up in so many different capacities in this transition period. God is being glorified and individuals are growing in God's Word. Individuals are praying about new ministries that they can begin or become involved in. Members are looking for ways to reach out. Central is exciting and I hope you become part of that excitement.
Be in prayer for Scott and Angie Smith as they work with our young people and Kathy Hamm as she leads the children's ministry. Encourage these servants daily!
May God continue to bless the work on the corner of Huntoon and College!
Our young people have blessed many residents over the years.
Last night over 35 from Central sang old and new hymns with the residents from Hearthstone led by our young men. I appreciate their servant hearts and willingness to lead praises to our Heavenly Father. Girls you are also a vital part of the ministry.
Thanks to the group that came out on Saturday evening for the Fall Saturday 4 the Savior. Carl and Mike did a great job reminding us about Jesus.
It's easy to just come and worship on Sunday morning. I want to encourage everyone to become a part of the body at Central. So many people have stepped up in so many different capacities in this transition period. God is being glorified and individuals are growing in God's Word. Individuals are praying about new ministries that they can begin or become involved in. Members are looking for ways to reach out. Central is exciting and I hope you become part of that excitement.
Be in prayer for Scott and Angie Smith as they work with our young people and Kathy Hamm as she leads the children's ministry. Encourage these servants daily!
May God continue to bless the work on the corner of Huntoon and College!
Friday, September 15, 2006
Saturday 4 the Savior
"Give Me Jesus" is the theme for our Fall "Saturday 4 the Savior" devotional this Saturday, September 16, at 6:00 p.m. Carl Wheeler will lead us in our worship and my brother Mike Carriger from Ottawa will be the speaker.
Don't forget to bring homemade icecream and desserts.
Give Me Jesus
In the morning when I rise,
In the morning when I rise,
In the morning when I rise,
Give me Jesus.
Give me Jesus,
Give me Jesus.
You can have all this world,
But give me Jesus.
O, when I am alone,
O, when I am alone,
O, when I am alone,
Give me Jesus.
From depths of sin I cry,
From depths of sin I cry,
From depths of sin I cry,
Give me Jesus.
O, when I come to die,
O, when I come to die,
O, when I come to die,
Give me Jesus.
Give me Jesus,
Give me Jesus.
You can have all this world,
But give me Jesus.
Give me Jesus,
Give me Jesus.
You can have all this world,
Give me Jesus.
Give me Jesus
You can have all this world,
But give me Jesus.
Copyright © 2002 by Majestic Eagle Publishing Co. Admin. by The Copyright Company. All rights reserved. Used by permission. Published by Worship Today Music Service 1 866-859-7622
Don't forget to bring homemade icecream and desserts.
Give Me Jesus
In the morning when I rise,
In the morning when I rise,
In the morning when I rise,
Give me Jesus.
Give me Jesus,
Give me Jesus.
You can have all this world,
But give me Jesus.
O, when I am alone,
O, when I am alone,
O, when I am alone,
Give me Jesus.
From depths of sin I cry,
From depths of sin I cry,
From depths of sin I cry,
Give me Jesus.
O, when I come to die,
O, when I come to die,
O, when I come to die,
Give me Jesus.
Give me Jesus,
Give me Jesus.
You can have all this world,
But give me Jesus.
Give me Jesus,
Give me Jesus.
You can have all this world,
Give me Jesus.
Give me Jesus
You can have all this world,
But give me Jesus.
Copyright © 2002 by Majestic Eagle Publishing Co. Admin. by The Copyright Company. All rights reserved. Used by permission. Published by Worship Today Music Service 1 866-859-7622
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Dennis Hogue
I met Dennis in 1982 when Debbie and I had just placed membership at the Emporia Ave. Church of Christ in Wichita, Kansas. I was a junior in college playing basketball for Newman University and had practice on several Sunday evenings and couldn’t attend evening services, but Debbie would always go by herself. Debbie visited with a Deacon at Emporia Ave. named Dennis Hogue one Sunday evening (without my knowledge) and told him that I led singing and could you ask David to lead some time. Debbie knew that I probably would not volunteer.
Dennis asked me the very next Sunday to lead the am worship. He hadn’t heard me, he didn’t know me that well. We had just moved from York College about three weeks earlier. I couldn't believe he had faith in this 20 year old rookie with his 300 member congregation on a Sunday morning.
That began a special relationship that I have had with a man who has been a very special spiritual mentor in my life. Dennis Hogue served the Emporia Ave. Church as the Worship deacon when we arrived in 1982. His family was a great blessing to that church. Dennis was a great worship leader. Not only did he have a great voice, but he had a great heart for worship. He always asked, “ what can we do to enhance our worship to God? What can we do to connect with God even more?” Dennis became my mentor. I watched him and listened to him in class settings and in worship opportunities to find out how to become a better worship leader. It was simple....you had to have a heart to worship God individually before you could ever lead a congregation in worship.
Dennis and his family moved to the Central Church in Wichita after we left Wichita and moved to Conway Springs. He has served that congregation as an Elder ever since. Dennis is battling brain cancer. He needs our prayers.
This man has been very special to me. He has been very special to God. He has been a catalyst for the cause of Christ in Wichita for over 30 years. Thank you Dennis for being that "giant of faith" in my life. You have given me more than I could ever describe. You trusted me. You had faith in me. You saw something that was in me that needed to be brought out. Thank you brother for being my mentor. I love you!
Dennis asked me the very next Sunday to lead the am worship. He hadn’t heard me, he didn’t know me that well. We had just moved from York College about three weeks earlier. I couldn't believe he had faith in this 20 year old rookie with his 300 member congregation on a Sunday morning.
That began a special relationship that I have had with a man who has been a very special spiritual mentor in my life. Dennis Hogue served the Emporia Ave. Church as the Worship deacon when we arrived in 1982. His family was a great blessing to that church. Dennis was a great worship leader. Not only did he have a great voice, but he had a great heart for worship. He always asked, “ what can we do to enhance our worship to God? What can we do to connect with God even more?” Dennis became my mentor. I watched him and listened to him in class settings and in worship opportunities to find out how to become a better worship leader. It was simple....you had to have a heart to worship God individually before you could ever lead a congregation in worship.
Dennis and his family moved to the Central Church in Wichita after we left Wichita and moved to Conway Springs. He has served that congregation as an Elder ever since. Dennis is battling brain cancer. He needs our prayers.
This man has been very special to me. He has been very special to God. He has been a catalyst for the cause of Christ in Wichita for over 30 years. Thank you Dennis for being that "giant of faith" in my life. You have given me more than I could ever describe. You trusted me. You had faith in me. You saw something that was in me that needed to be brought out. Thank you brother for being my mentor. I love you!
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Gladys Dunn
Gladys Dunn was new in town and decided to visit the church nearest her. She liked the pretty auditorium, sincere prayers and the singing, but the sermon just went on and on. Worse, it wasn’t interesting or even relevant. Finally, it was over. After the service she turned to a sleepy-looking man next to her, extended her hand and said, “I’m Gladys Dunn.” He replied, “You and me both.”
Monday, September 11, 2006
9-11
“We come together today to affirm our conviction that God cares for us, whatever our ethnic, religious, or political background may be. The Bible says that He's the God of all comfort, who comforts us in our troubles. No matter how hard we try, words simply cannot express the horror, the shock, and the revulsion we all feel over what took place in this nation on Tuesday morning. September eleven will go down in our history as a day to remember.”
Dr. Billy Graham (9-11 Memorial Service)
Dr. Billy Graham (9-11 Memorial Service)
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Order of Worship-September 10, 2006
Order of Worship
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Welcome
103 He Has Made Me Glad
577 We Bow Down
578 We Will Glorify
Prayer
Scripture: John 6 verses 33 and 35.
286 Wonderful Story of Love (1st Verse Only)
18 Faithful Love
376 He Paid A Debt (1st Verse Only)
Lords Supper
Contribution
Dismiss 2x2
705 A Common Love (Twice)
Message Evan Burdan
Invitation 791 On Bended Knee I Come
Announcements
Closing Prayer
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Welcome
103 He Has Made Me Glad
577 We Bow Down
578 We Will Glorify
Prayer
Scripture: John 6 verses 33 and 35.
286 Wonderful Story of Love (1st Verse Only)
18 Faithful Love
376 He Paid A Debt (1st Verse Only)
Lords Supper
Contribution
Dismiss 2x2
705 A Common Love (Twice)
Message Evan Burdan
Invitation 791 On Bended Knee I Come
Announcements
Closing Prayer
Friday, September 08, 2006
Elders Meeting Minutes (September 6)
September 6, 2006
Elder of the Month: David Carriger
Scripture: Romans 12:4-11
Prayer: Rex Allen
The Elders have been discussing and praying for the past several weeks about the future direction of the Central Church. The transition period between ministers has been a positive and growing experience for the Central Family. Individual members have taken on additional responsibilities in all aspects of ministry. A unified feeling of working together for the cause of Christ is evident here at Central.
The Elders visited with and discussed ministry plans and possibilities with Evan Burdan. The Elders have received very positive comments on Evan’s preaching and wish to continue the format of Evan preaching on Sunday mornings through the remainder of 2006. The Elders discussed with Evan his possible future roles in ministry here at Central.
Before Evan left the meeting, Gary Souder led us in prayer as we asked God to continue to bless Evan as he continues to preach God’s Word to the Central Church.
After much discussion the past few weeks, it was decided to ask Carl Wheeler (Search Committee Member) to contact the current applicants and inform them that at the present time Central will not be aggressively seeking a pulpit minister until after the first of the year. We are looking at possibly changing the ministry position to an Involvement Minister with a job description to be finalized by the end of the year. Also, those that might be interested in the Involvement Minister position are asked to re-apply.
Other Items Discussed:
Discussion on Goals and Objectives for the Central Church to be completed by January 1, 2007 and presented to the congregation.
Discussion on Elders/Deacons Meeting to be held on Tuesday evening.
Update on Youth Ministry. Appreciate the work that Scott and Angie Smith are doing.
Update on the Marriage Enrichment Seminar at York College (several from Central will be attending)
Discussion on Tallgrass Christian Camp. The storage container that is currently at the Burlingame property will be moved to Tallgrass.
The Children’s Ministry program is off and running for the fall quarter. Appreciate Kathy Hamm’s leadership and her committee that continues to work hard serving the needs of our kids. Appreciate the efforts of Angie Smith and Cheryl Newton during the VBS Celebration last Wednesday night.
Discussion on possibly running vans to pick up kids for Bible Class. More discussion at the Elders/Deacons meeting.
The Senior Scholarship program has been well received.
Discussion needed on Benevolence issues for September.
Jim Glass will be teaching Jerry Myers class this coming Sunday.
Elders visited the Burlingame property Saturday morning to look at the house and garage that was recently purchased.
Prayer for Hurting/Sick Members and Families
The Elders spent time in prayer (led by Roger Hamm) for individual family members that are hurting physically, as well as spiritually.
Meeting concluded at 10:30 p.m.
Elder of the Month: David Carriger
Scripture: Romans 12:4-11
Prayer: Rex Allen
The Elders have been discussing and praying for the past several weeks about the future direction of the Central Church. The transition period between ministers has been a positive and growing experience for the Central Family. Individual members have taken on additional responsibilities in all aspects of ministry. A unified feeling of working together for the cause of Christ is evident here at Central.
The Elders visited with and discussed ministry plans and possibilities with Evan Burdan. The Elders have received very positive comments on Evan’s preaching and wish to continue the format of Evan preaching on Sunday mornings through the remainder of 2006. The Elders discussed with Evan his possible future roles in ministry here at Central.
Before Evan left the meeting, Gary Souder led us in prayer as we asked God to continue to bless Evan as he continues to preach God’s Word to the Central Church.
After much discussion the past few weeks, it was decided to ask Carl Wheeler (Search Committee Member) to contact the current applicants and inform them that at the present time Central will not be aggressively seeking a pulpit minister until after the first of the year. We are looking at possibly changing the ministry position to an Involvement Minister with a job description to be finalized by the end of the year. Also, those that might be interested in the Involvement Minister position are asked to re-apply.
Other Items Discussed:
Discussion on Goals and Objectives for the Central Church to be completed by January 1, 2007 and presented to the congregation.
Discussion on Elders/Deacons Meeting to be held on Tuesday evening.
Update on Youth Ministry. Appreciate the work that Scott and Angie Smith are doing.
Update on the Marriage Enrichment Seminar at York College (several from Central will be attending)
Discussion on Tallgrass Christian Camp. The storage container that is currently at the Burlingame property will be moved to Tallgrass.
The Children’s Ministry program is off and running for the fall quarter. Appreciate Kathy Hamm’s leadership and her committee that continues to work hard serving the needs of our kids. Appreciate the efforts of Angie Smith and Cheryl Newton during the VBS Celebration last Wednesday night.
Discussion on possibly running vans to pick up kids for Bible Class. More discussion at the Elders/Deacons meeting.
The Senior Scholarship program has been well received.
Discussion needed on Benevolence issues for September.
Jim Glass will be teaching Jerry Myers class this coming Sunday.
Elders visited the Burlingame property Saturday morning to look at the house and garage that was recently purchased.
Prayer for Hurting/Sick Members and Families
The Elders spent time in prayer (led by Roger Hamm) for individual family members that are hurting physically, as well as spiritually.
Meeting concluded at 10:30 p.m.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Communication Tool
As an additional communication tool between the Shepherds and the Central congregation, we will be including minutes from our weekly Elders’ Meetings in the News and Notes on a trial basis during the month of September. We hope to keep the Central Family informed of information items that might be of interest in ministry here at Central. Please give us feedback if you feel this is something that you would like to see continue on a regular weekly basis. We will also post the minutes on this blog each week.
Continue to pray for your Central Shepherds!
Continue to pray for your Central Shepherds!
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Plain, Simple, Clear
Sometimes when people communicate, it doesn’t always come across the way they meant it. For instance, check out these ads/headlines that are supposed to be true.
Lawyer says client is not that guilty.
Tired of working for only $9.75 per hour? We offer profit sharing and flexible hours. Starting pay $7-$9 per hour.
Then you have times where you have to guess at what happened, or you would like to know the rest of the story. For instance, look at these ads:
Nordic Track $300, hardly used, call Chubbie.
Snow Blower for Sale: Only used on snowy days.
Free Puppies: Part German Shepherd Part Dog.
2 Wire Mesh Butchering Gloves, 1 five finger, 1 three finger, Pair $15
Aren’t you glad God is clear and does not make us guess what the rest of the story is. He says clearly, things like; "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.”
Plain. Simple. Clear.
Rich Dolan
Lawyer says client is not that guilty.
Tired of working for only $9.75 per hour? We offer profit sharing and flexible hours. Starting pay $7-$9 per hour.
Then you have times where you have to guess at what happened, or you would like to know the rest of the story. For instance, look at these ads:
Nordic Track $300, hardly used, call Chubbie.
Snow Blower for Sale: Only used on snowy days.
Free Puppies: Part German Shepherd Part Dog.
2 Wire Mesh Butchering Gloves, 1 five finger, 1 three finger, Pair $15
Aren’t you glad God is clear and does not make us guess what the rest of the story is. He says clearly, things like; "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.”
Plain. Simple. Clear.
Rich Dolan
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Medical Mission Trip
About 4 weeks ago Bill and Diana Carriger invited Craig to help with a Medical Mission Trip this February to Guana, South America. Debbie and I are excited and proud of him that he has decided to go and help with this important ministry.
Below is a letter Craig has written asking for your prayers as well as finicial support for this trip:
August 29, 2006
Dear Family & Friends,
God has given me the opportunity to go on a short-term medical mission trip to Guyana, South America, with VOSH (Volunteer Optometry Services for Humanity) on February 10-19, 2007. This team is affiliated with the churches of Christ. The team I will be working with will serve the poorest of the poor with spiritual and physical health care. Our team will provide free optometry medical care and free eyeglasses to many patients as we minister in Jesus' name.
I am writing to ask you to prayerfully consider joining our team through your support. First, please partner with me in praying for the people we will be serving, for my health and effectiveness as a team member, and for the many details of this mission trip.
Second, please consider supporting me financially for this outreach. The cost of this
ten-day trip is $2000. If you would like to join the team in this way, please make your check payable to Central Church of Christ, and put a note with it that has my name on it and VOSH Guyana Trip. It can be mailed to Central Church of Christ, 1250 SW College Ave., Topeka, Kansas, 66604.
Thank you for praying about being a vital part of the mission team.
Sincerely,
Craig Carriger
Below is a letter Craig has written asking for your prayers as well as finicial support for this trip:
August 29, 2006
Dear Family & Friends,
God has given me the opportunity to go on a short-term medical mission trip to Guyana, South America, with VOSH (Volunteer Optometry Services for Humanity) on February 10-19, 2007. This team is affiliated with the churches of Christ. The team I will be working with will serve the poorest of the poor with spiritual and physical health care. Our team will provide free optometry medical care and free eyeglasses to many patients as we minister in Jesus' name.
I am writing to ask you to prayerfully consider joining our team through your support. First, please partner with me in praying for the people we will be serving, for my health and effectiveness as a team member, and for the many details of this mission trip.
Second, please consider supporting me financially for this outreach. The cost of this
ten-day trip is $2000. If you would like to join the team in this way, please make your check payable to Central Church of Christ, and put a note with it that has my name on it and VOSH Guyana Trip. It can be mailed to Central Church of Christ, 1250 SW College Ave., Topeka, Kansas, 66604.
Thank you for praying about being a vital part of the mission team.
Sincerely,
Craig Carriger
Monday, September 04, 2006
Sunday
Order of Worship
Sunday, September 3, 2006
Welcome
147 I Stand Amazed (Verse 1 and 4)
96 I Stand in Awe
100 Holy Ground
Prayer
Scripture: Zechariah 12:10;13:1 (#368 in the book)
325 Boundless Love (Refrain Only)
364 Come Share the Lord
Communion
Contribution
2x2 Class Dismissal
290 Shine Jesus Shine
Message (Evan Burdan)
Invitation 768 Jesus Let Us Come To Know You
Announcements
Closing Prayer
Sunday, September 3, 2006
Welcome
147 I Stand Amazed (Verse 1 and 4)
96 I Stand in Awe
100 Holy Ground
Prayer
Scripture: Zechariah 12:10;13:1 (#368 in the book)
325 Boundless Love (Refrain Only)
364 Come Share the Lord
Communion
Contribution
2x2 Class Dismissal
290 Shine Jesus Shine
Message (Evan Burdan)
Invitation 768 Jesus Let Us Come To Know You
Announcements
Closing Prayer
Friday, September 01, 2006
Football Season Begins
Friday Night Lights!
Everyone in small town across America during the fall turns out at the local high school football games. Beautiful fall weather, hot dogs, pop corn, the band, cheerleaders....it starts out exciting. Great expectations for a winning season. And then what happens? About 1/2 of the teams fall quickly because of losing seasons. The high expectations and goals that were set are quickly a thing of the past.
The Christian life is much like that. We have those high emotional lifts that really encourage us and then smack! A discouraging situation, an unkind word, it can change so quickly.
I enjoy the love that is shown at Central. Keep it up, plus as Roger always says, "do it more and more". We need to encourage each other daily. Building each other up. We know will have difficult times in our lives and for our Church family but we ought to be the happiest and most loving people on the face of the earth...........because we have a Savior that gave everything because we couldn't.
Enjoy the opening games tonight. And remember stay positive.....It's a long season!
Everyone in small town across America during the fall turns out at the local high school football games. Beautiful fall weather, hot dogs, pop corn, the band, cheerleaders....it starts out exciting. Great expectations for a winning season. And then what happens? About 1/2 of the teams fall quickly because of losing seasons. The high expectations and goals that were set are quickly a thing of the past.
The Christian life is much like that. We have those high emotional lifts that really encourage us and then smack! A discouraging situation, an unkind word, it can change so quickly.
I enjoy the love that is shown at Central. Keep it up, plus as Roger always says, "do it more and more". We need to encourage each other daily. Building each other up. We know will have difficult times in our lives and for our Church family but we ought to be the happiest and most loving people on the face of the earth...........because we have a Savior that gave everything because we couldn't.
Enjoy the opening games tonight. And remember stay positive.....It's a long season!
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