Sunday, December 27, 2015

All the Power and the Glory

Today is the start of the 12 days of Christmas and around the world the lowest church attendance.

Greg Armstrong www.EasTview.org/sermons
Was on a trip to the tropics. Rough it out in Palm Springs to help parents shut down the condo. Age and sickness causes us to lose power. Jesus is the Power we need. Less of me more of Jesus.
Power shift to kingdom power.
Let's seek the true power of Jesus. Take time to be still to enjoy God and his Gift.
The poor you will always have with you.
Let's work for restorative justice around the world. First we must repent of our sIns and become less and learn to rest in God's lavish and ridiculous love.
We rejoice in what God has sent. Do we see beyond the story and have a personal relationship.
Jesus loved John the most. He loves me and you the most.
God is with us now. John the Baptist testified about Jesus. Are we willing?
Jesus turns water to high quality wine prepared by the servants. They were the first ones to witness the miracle. Jesus turned things upside down.
After this Jesus went out to baptize and the disciples started to argue.
http://bible.com/116/jhn.3.22-30.nlt
Then Jesus and his disciples left Jerusalem and went into the Judean countryside. Jesus spent some time with them there, baptizing people. At this time John the Baptist was baptizing at Aenon, near Salim, because there was plenty of water there; and people kept coming to him for baptism. A debate broke out between John's disciples and a certain Jew over ceremonial cleansing. So John's disciples came to him and said, "Rabbi, the man you met on the other side of the Jordan River, the one you identified as the Messiah, is also baptizing people. And everybody is going to him instead of coming to us." John replied, "No one can receive anything unless God gives it from heaven. You yourselves know how plainly I told you, 'I am not the Messiah. I am only here to prepare the way for him.' It is the bridegroom who marries the bride, and the best man is simply glad to stand with him and hear his vows. Therefore, I am filled with joy at his success. He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.
Communion. Behold who you are become what "I Am"
Proclaim The Lord's death until He comes.
Jesus Jesus Jesus there is something about that name.

Sunday, December 20, 2015

God with us. Unspeakable Joy

www.EasTview.org/sermons
Christmas Eve services
Wednesday December 23 6:30pm
Thursday December 24 5:00pm
Thursday December 24 6:30pm
Sunday December 27 10:30 church service and communion
Logan is going to Thailand to work with MB missIons

Of the characters involved in the Christmas story do you most identify with?
In a survey most people identify with the shepherds.

Delbert Enns
I was asked to be a shepherd and told to act like a palm tree.
Who knows the nativity story?
John 3.16 God sent his only son into the world.

Ravi Zacharias:
"During this Christmas season I think often of that extraordinary verse in Isaiah 9:6, "For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given." Let us be sure of what is being said here. The Son is not born; the SON eternally existed and is GIVEN. The CHILD is BORN and entered our time.

He who dwells in the realm of eternity entered time. He understands our times. And so it is that eternity breaks into time to give us a glimpse of what always was and is and will be. God in that divine moment revealed Himself as He had never been revealed before, through His Son. That is what the Christmas message is all about."

Who gets the birth announcements in this day of social media? The grandparents before the friends?

Shepherds were the most zero of all people. No help was to be given to heathen or shepherds.
They were labeled isolated likely and forgotten.
They were brash and bold. They were considered unreliable.
We play the game of our labels. Shepherds were story tellers. Not reliable.

Why did God choose the shepherds to hear the birth announcement? Jesus said he came for the underdogs. Not the self righteous.
We are all lost and unreliable. Like the shepherds and tax collectors. Luke 19
http://bible.com/116/luk.19.1-10.nlt Jesus entered Jericho and made his way through the town. There was a man there named Zacchaeus. He was the chief tax collector in the region, and he had become very rich. He tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short to see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree beside the road, for Jesus was going to pass that way. When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. "Zacchaeus!" he said. "Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today." Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. But the people were displeased. "He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner," they grumbled. Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, "I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!" Jesus responded, "Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham.  For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost."

Have you ever been audited? That makes you feel a millimeter high.
Tax collectors were hated and despised. Labeled as crooks. The chief tax collector had others working for him ripping off the people.
He runs. Rich guys don't. He climbed a tree. Rich guys don't. Jesus called him by name. A zero becomes SOMEBODY known by name.
Jesus knows your name even if you are sitting in a tree. Jesus says get out of the tree because I want to dine with you.
Jesus brings faith into our lives.
You can't Find Jesus. He finds you.
Jesus came to seek and save those who are lost.

Zacchaeus is overcome with exuberant joy and stood before the Lord and said, "I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!"
4X is amazing.
God gave His one and only son to us. He gave us everything.

Sunday, December 13, 2015

God with us Peace

Music group Hamms and Neufelds
Go tell it on the mountain
Dave Ens www.EasTview.org
3rd Advent welcome
PEACE. Christmas. Jesus is the Prince of Peace. Hallmark says everyone at the manger is smiling and at peace.
What does peace look like? Not fighting?
Is peace God's idea? Is peace the same as peacefulness? Getting along?
God's notion of Peace is Shalom. Harmony everywhere between nature and people. Beautiful harmony. Doesn't always happen. Nails on chalkboard. Grin and bear it would be the peaceful thing to do. Shalom stops the disharmony and brings back beautiful harmony.
Luke 2.8-14 Isaiah 11 Ephesians 2

The angel said to them, "Don't be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people. For there is born to you today, in David's city, a Savior, who is Messiah the Lord.
Why did the shepherds get the message? The nobodies rather than the king.
Deep seated contentment. What if that is peace? They were ready to go. They found God was giving them his peace.
People that grasp for power trying to control people around them will have trouble finding peace. Harod found no peace.

Are we living like we are trying to take charge of everything? Can we leave the saving to the Messiah? He will save the people from their sIns. Jesus means God saves. Go be where Jesus is and God will take it from there. We do that here and in small groups. Spent time with God.

Righteousness will be the belt of his waist, and faithfulness the belt of his waist.  The wolf will live with the lamb, and the leopard will lie down with the young goat; The calf, the young lion, and the fattened calf together; and a little child will lead them.  The cow and the bear will graze. Their young ones will lie down together. The lion will eat straw like the ox.  The nursing child will play near a cobra's hole, and the weaned child will put his hand on the viper's den.  They will not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain; for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.
Our visions of Peace excludes people. I won't lie down here unless the wolf leaves.
The Romans violently removed all opposition. Then they had peace.
If God brings peace he brings it for everyone including my enemies.
I have to forgive to have peace.
Is there anything harder than forgiveness? We love to get even to get revenge. Has revenge ever brought peace? An eye for eye is the old testament rule. Not eye and ear for an eye.
God says forgive. Active reconciliation.

But now in Messiah Yeshua you who once were far off are made near in the blood of Messiah. For he is our peace, who made both one, and broke down the middle wall of partition, having abolished in his flesh the hostility, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man of the two, making peace; and might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, having killed the hostility thereby. He came and preached peace to you who were far off and to those who were near. For through him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but you are fellow citizens with the holy ones, and of the household of God, being built on the foundation of the emissaries and prophets, Messiah Yeshua himself being the chief cornerstone; in whom the whole building, fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom you also are built together for a habitation of God in the Spirit.

Jesus brought peace through sacrifice. Giving up my agenda. Becoming a peace maker not a peace lover. Becoming active in bringing peace.

What does peace look like for you?

Sunday, December 06, 2015

God with us Fearless Hope

Dave Ens www.EasTview.org/sermons
Waiting is hard. It means being patient. It is hard waiting. Oma could not wait for her presents and wanted them before Christmas.

Advent was what the church established thousands of years. The church calendar started with the first Sunday of Advent. The New Year of the calendar starts with patiently waiting. How to hope and orient ourselves to the new hope.

It's important to learn to wait. We want patience. God, give it to me NOW!

We have a default conversation. Are you ready for Christmas? Got your shopping done yet?

What are you hoping for? When our hope is in the right place we have patience. Rom 12.12 rejoice in hope be patient in suffering

The prophets are talking to their generation and speaking hope into a future  during their dark days. Suffering.

Isaiah 7  Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin will conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.  He shall eat butter and honey when he knows to refuse the evil, and choose the good.

You are set free and set right with God.
The Old is gone and the new has come.

Sometimes we don't feel it but God has Done it already wether it feels like it or not. Sometimes we come to church feeling defeated or sad or alone. ... We come even though we have not figured it out. How I feel is not what it's about. God help us to focus on the life God has given us.

Rejoice in hope be patient in suffering. God is present in our suffering. At Christmas God brings us hope.

God brings relief to those who are in the most darkness. When your hope is in the right place you will come alongside those who live in darkness.
Isaiah 9.2 the people have seen a great light. A child has been born. To us a son is given; and the government will be on his shoulders. His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there shall be no end, on David's throne, and on his kingdom, to establish it, and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from that time on, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of Hosts will perform this.

God is right there to set things right. We wait with patience. Hope. Patience. Prayer. That God's will be done on earth as in heaven.

The routines we have are all good. Is the predominant routine a routine of prayer? May that be true of you.

Sunday, November 29, 2015

Truth and Life Worship Centre

Rabbi Pesach Wolicki www.bfpcan.org www.tlwc.ca
I believe in the sun even when it's not shining. I believe in love even when not feeling it. I believe in God even when He is silent. Holocaust victim.
The church of Jesus  built the first hospital the first schools the first universities.  Welcome to church video

Lots of loud music and dancing while the 1st offering is taken. Time to put in earplugs.

Bridges for Peace are here today and 1/4 of the attendees were visitors.

Building relationships between Christians and Jews.

Rabbi lives in Israel. Born in the USA. Has 8 children.

Genesis Marriage study.
What's unique to us is what we concentrate on. Jewish rabbi spoke to this church. We believe in the God of the Bible. Many similarities. Shared values.

The sanctity of marriage. Under attack by current media and our society.
Then we turn back to the Word of God.
Understand the relationship of man and woman. Genesis 2.15 to work and guard the garden of Eden. Make things better and do no harm. Be responsible. My life is not about me. Don't eat from the wrong tree or you'll die? Was God telling the truth? What does it mean?
We all have a double identity. Body and Soul. My soul is who I am. My emotions. It is eternal. It does not die. Are you a soul that has a body or are you a body that has a soul?

God made a helpmate.
The LORD God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it. But the LORD God warned him, "You may freely eat the fruit of every tree in the garden—except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat its fruit, you are sure to die."
Then the LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him." So the LORD God formed from the ground all the wild animals and all the birds of the sky. He brought them to the man to see what he would call them, and the man chose a name for each one. He gave names to all the livestock, all the birds of the sky, and all the wild animals. But still there was no helper just right for him.

Made animals. No helper there. He named them. He was superior. He is not an equal. People are not animals. There is no mate among the animals.

Humans are responsible to manage.

So the LORD God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep. While the man slept, the LORD God took out one of the man's ribsand closed up the opening. Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib, and he brought her to the man.
"At last!" the man exclaimed.
"This one is bone from my bone,
and flesh from my flesh!
She will be called 'woman,'
because she was taken from 'man.'"
The Hebrew has a play on words. Self of myself. Fire man woman Yah
The characters. Make a big difference.
Adam means human. When his mate is introduced he gets a new name. Man. Fire is passion. Together they are the fire of God.
3.6 the fruit was lustful. They became ashamed after they ate of the fruit.
Animals have no shame because they have only bodies.
The body had taken the lead. That's why they were ashamed.
The woman's punishment is pain in childbirth. Man's punishment is hard work.
This is God the father teaching us a lesson.
The sin was a sin of desire. She seduced her man.
The man replied, "It was the woman you gave me who gave me the fruit, and I ate it."
Then the LORD God asked the woman, "What have you done?"
"The serpent deceived me," she replied. "That's why I ate it."
God was teaching them to take responsibility.
A relationship built around shared goals. Build spiritual bonds before physical. The fundamental glue is responsibility. Produce nurture protect life. V20 Adam called her Eve. Now that we understand responsibility we can become mothers.
Covenant of Marriage. What does that mean?
Covenant shows up after the Flood. Bereet comes from creation. To create something new. Briss circumcision making something new. The first word of God is creation. Covenant with fire in the middle.

Christians and Jews are on the same side of the battles.  The messiah has to come to fix this world.
We need to build marriage. Strong. We need to be in this together.

Gentile believers should never forget the root to which we were grafted.

Sunday, November 22, 2015

Kingdom Building

Delbert Enns www.EasTview.org
Jesus called us to be ambassadors of the Good News. Or is it just news.

We were created for more - way more. We were not created for earth — but for eternity. We were not created to be liked but to show love. We were not created to draw attention to ourselves but to give glory to God. We were not created to collect followers but to follow Christ. Craig Groeschel

Last Sunday was baptism Sunday and we were reminded that God sent his Holy Spirit to remind us of why we are here.

Reoriented for Destiny
How can we move from here to there?
God is. ... We become. ...
Creator. ..restored. ..
Holy. ... Transformed
Covenant. ... Community. ..
Love. ... Destiny
... for His Glory

Redeemed for Destiny
The cost to move from here to there was the death of His Son.
Is it good news?

Luke 9.59 3 men Jesus invited them
Follow me. Preach the kingdom.
http://bible.com/116/luk.9.57-62.nlt
As they were walking along, someone said to Jesus, "I will follow you wherever you go." But Jesus replied, "Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place even to lay his head." He said to another person, "Come, follow me." The man agreed, but he said, "Lord, first let me return home and bury my father." But Jesus told him, "Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead! Your duty is to go and preach about the Kingdom of God." Another said, "Yes, Lord, I will follow you, but first let me say good-bye to my family." But Jesus told him, "Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God."

Get your stuff sorted out. If not you will not have Good News.

Why?
This is about His story.
Jesus wants to spend eternity with his redeemed church. Phil 2.9..11
God will fix this world. He made a perfect world and he will restore it.

http://bible.com/116/rev.21.1-4.nlt
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, "Look, God's home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them.  He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever."
And the one sitting on the throne said, "Look, I am making everything new!" And then he said to me, "Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true." And he also said, "It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life. All who are victorious will inherit all these blessings, and I will be their God, and they will be my children. "But cowards, unbelievers, the corrupt, murderers, the immoral, those who practice witchcraft, idol worshipers, and all liars—their fate is in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death."

God's redemption story is complete but there is a gap. 2 people die every second. God has entrusted us to bring the Good News to those who have never heard.

Mark 14 Jesus introduced the Last Supper in Remembrance of His Sacrifice. He invites us all to the celebration of the eternal supper with all of us.

Kristian Stanfill - My Heart Is Yours
From the album Passion:

Take It AllI give You my life
I give You my trust
Jesus
You are my God
You are enough
Jesus

My heart is Yours
My heart is Yours
Take it all
Take it all
My life in Your hands

I lay down my life
And take up my cross
Jesus
For You are my God
Whatever the cost
Jesus
For You, Jesus

All to Jesus I surrender
All to You I freely give
I will ever love and trust You
In Your presence I will live

© 2014 worshiptogether.com

Sunday, November 08, 2015

Repurposed for Mission

Delbert Enns   www.EasTview.org
Do we understand what God has called us to do? Do we have neighbors that want our love? Are we embracing them?
There was a rich young ruler that came to Jesus for advice. Love the Lord your God with all your heart soul and mind. And your neighbour as yourself.
Jesus said sell your stuff and follow me.  The ruler left with sadness in his heart.

Ultimately God wants us in his destiny forever. Help us God save us from our enemies.

Mark 1.15 God's promised time has come.  "The time promised by God has come at last!" he announced. "The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!"

It's His Story. Not about me.

Some of us are on a track of moral goodness. We need to step out in immovable unwavering faith. Your identity is shaped by your faith.

Next Sunday is baptism Sunday. We all need the Holy Spirit in our lives to get things under control.

We have a great Father. He wants us to take care of the needy of this world. Make disciples of all the world. Jesus promised to be with us.

The disciples shared the story and there was great joy in the lives if the new believers. The Church is the Living Body of Christ. It is the hope of the world.

In 1727 the Moravian church  started a 100 year revival meeting. In 5 years they made a huge impact on the world. Now they have 750,000 members
In essentials unity
In nonessentials freedom
In all things love
2 sent out 1 stays to pray for them
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_Moravian_Church

Leading people to Christ and into maturity in Him.
For 2 years we have had a concert of prayer. We are now raising Kingdom Builders. EasTview is 25 years old next year. It's crucial to make a difference.
Pray. We stand in awe of you. You keep loving us. We are made for destiny. Give us boldness.

Oh Lord how I need you.

Sunday, October 25, 2015

Community

Brian Hamilton
When you come together remember Jesus and his sacrifice.
We don't become Christian because we have a list or are born into a Christian family. We are saved only by the mercy of God. United in Christ. Supper in the Bible designates the main meal of the day. The evening sit down for a leisurely meal. Connected with others because of Jesus and his fellowship.
The early church had a custom of a LOVE Feast. Everyone brought food.

In Corinth something went sadly wrong. The rich brought rich foods and refused to share. The poor got nothing. Paul told them to stay home if that's how they wanted to treat others.

Look inwardly
Look backwards
Look forward
Examine yourself. Look at your life. Not about not being worthy. None of us deserves the Lord's table. Then no one would ever take part in it. If we continue to harbor sin we should confess and clean it up. Our generosity should make sure there are no needy among us.
The Passover is the thanksgiving of Jewish culture. It is a time if feasting. Acts 2.46 They had their meals together with thankful hearts.
Look within. Am I living as I should? What can I give back to God for what he has done for me?

Look backwards. Remember those who have gone before. Remembrance day. That's what the Lord's supper is about. We follow Jesus through the agony of the trial and the cross. The shedding of his blood for us.

Look forward. Am I living to honour God? Do I remember what Jesus did? Do we anticipate him coming again?

The Lord's supper reminds us that we will reign with him forever and ever. There will be a point when evil will be removed.

Thank you Lord for giving us the privilege of coming to celebrate the Lord's table. Help us to remember your sacrifice.
Jesus instituted this celebration himself. As we eat the bread and drink this cup we remember Jesus and what he has done for us. We come to this table because we are imperfect. All disciples are invited. As we have named Jesus as our Saviour we are invited.

http://bible.com/116/1co.11.23-26.nlt
For I pass on to you what I received from the Lord himself. On the night when he was betrayed, the Lord Jesus took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and said, "This is my body, which is given for you. Do this to remember me."  In the same way, he took the cup of wine after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant between God and his people—an agreement confirmed with my blood. Do this to remember me as often as you drink it."  For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are announcing the Lord's death until he comes again.

Sunday, October 11, 2015

Thanks Giving

People's Church Falcon Lake
1st Thessalonians 5:18
3 levels of thanksgiving in Scripture
Outlandish
Natural
Supernatural

Give thanks in all circumstances. 41 year old passed away suddenly. Another family is broken. Cancer and rebellious children.

Thanksgiving is the healthiest of human emotions.
A researcher found all his rats dead from stress. Gratitude produces more good hormones than anything.
Grumpy people drain our energy.
Thanksgiving is Spiritually healthy.
Psalm 100

1. Natural Thanksgiving. Pilgrims gave thanks for surviving a year. Martin Frobisher in 1575 celebrated thanksgiving in Canada.
The seasons work and we have a fertile land. God has blessed us.
We are more blessed than most of the world. If you have money in your pocket you are richer than 92% of the world. How many times have you thanked God for your socks? A Cuban pastor took a long time to absorb the newness of the socks. Mark 30 in Zambia is now an old man where life expectancy is 38. They live on $0.70 /day.

How often do we thank God for our natural provisions?

2. Outlandish Thanksgiving
There are many things that make us anxious. Child not walking with the Lord.
Do we grit our teeth to not be anxious? There is a big word BUT in all things GIVE THANKS TO GOD. What threatens me does not threaten God. Give everything to God.
Lord thank you for your sufficiency in this situation. Trust and gratitude to God are the hallmarks of God. When you look back did you realize the sufficiency of God?
Psalm David says I'm drowning in sorrow. Headed for destruction.  V5 but I have trusted in the Lord my God. Phil 4 by prayer and petition.

You'll experiences God's peace. Beyond understanding.

When Jesus was in the threshold of agony he gave thanks. At the last supper.

3. Supernatural Thanksgiving
When the lights go off or we hit fog in life we can give thanks working out God's purposes in life.

The essence of thanksgiving is to trust God. In all circumstances. Peace.

Thank you thank you thank you is the language of the Christian.

Father bring us genuine deep thanksgiving.

Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Amen.

Sunday, October 04, 2015

His Story The Great Escape

Choir: As I went down to the river to prayhttps://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Down_in_the_River_to_Pray

Dave & Louise Sinclair Peters missionary to Thailand atwww.EasTview.org
Genesis 37-50, Exodus 1-2, Romans 9, 5:1-11

Baptism at One88 video.

Mid week community starting on Tuesday Oct 13
Men's breakfast Wednesday 7AM

Dave & Louise:
Love the cool autumn weather.
God made a covenant. He binds himself to Abraham.
Abraham has a messed up family. Skip the football. Read the story.
Exodus. God's family has been enslaved. 2.23-25
They were groaning crying out to God. They were in pain. God remembers his covenant. He raises a leader. Moses. Grew up in the palace.

There are thousands of Burmese people in Thailand. They have rescued thousands. Video of trip.

The camera man intimidated the monks. But they still would not give pastor Isaiah freedom to preach. His aunt offered to sell them 5 acres for a demonstration farm. That is now the venue to reach the community.

4 weeks ago they went to pick up a new believer and baptised him.

Sunday, September 27, 2015

His Story - Hope Restored

www.EasTview.org
Pastor Delbert Enns
Dave and Louise Sinclair Peters will be here next Sunday. Newcomers lunch next Sunday. Trip to www.One88.org where we had the 1st baptism.

There is a lot of anxiety about world affairs and the election in Canada.
At 4 woke up and thought God was revealing something about the message.
It's God's business to restore people's lives. Thank you God for what you have done in the baptismal candidates. Thank you God for the peace.
In '99 I was one of the first westerners to visit the mining communities of the former Soviet Union. A former children's home was being converted into a radio ministry center. Now there is a church in the community and 2 children's homes. Romano and his wife are now pastoring a big church.

Who is God? What has he done? What did he make me for?
Our identity is what we do and how we do it. God had a better plan.
Genesis 6:5-6 God was sorry he made evil men. He feels all the pain of a Broken Heart.
Genesis 9:11-16 the rainbow sign of God's covenant. God restores in the time of Grace. He knows who we are.
Genesis 11:4 the spirit of rebellion wanted to build a monument to human ingenuity.
God builds everything for His glory. Anytime we try to build our monuments God will deal with it.
Genesis 12:1-3
"I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you;
I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you."

This blessing is for all of us. Ephesians 1:11-14 because Jesus died for us to.
Genesis 12: God blesses.

Romans 8 the Holy Spirit wants to help us. Adopted us and we can call him papa.

Reflect on what God has Done. Surrender your unbelief. God still restores.

Sunday, September 20, 2015

All People's Church

Pastor Brian Hamilton
Sharon's family will miss her. Let's pray for them. Terry Gross and family.
Father we thank you for bringing everything into existence. You made the stars and named them one by one. Billions of them.
You made us out of the dust. We come to worship you today. We are so unworthy. We are sinful. We fall so short of your glory. We ask and receive forgiveness at the feet of Jesus. We ask that you breathe into us and all churches your revival. That the millions that have not heard will come to know you. Let people see that you are the Lord of Lords and king of kings.
We lay our needs before you. Please minister to us. The burdens we carry. The struggles we have. Minister to us.
Sharon is now rejoicing in your presence.
We pray for our country and the election. We pray that those elected will have your moral compass and ethics. We want Canada to reflect your love. May your gracious hand direct them.
Help us to see the world with your eyes.

Romans 12:1-8
http://bible.com/116/rom.12.1-2.nlt And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.  Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

Walking in the Will of God
Paul is telling us what a fruitful Christian life looks like. Our life fruit comes directly from God in us. The Holy Spirit gives life. There is no such thing as trying to be a Christian. Actions don't make us Christians. We must be born again. Transformed. Then you'll know God's will and live in it. A personal relationship with Jesus and a healthy participation in his church. We must be attached to the body of Christ.
John 8.31 you can't be in the will of God if you are not part of the BODY.
Is Jesus clear and Paul befuddled it?
A pastor said we need to use the KJV because God made it hard to understand and we need to dig for the story.
Paul made every effort to make the gospel understood. When he got to sinful Corinth he wrote the book of Romans.  Please read it again and again.
As we follow the Lord we get to know him more and more. Offer yourself pleasing to God. Turn your life completely over to God.
After the wedding I decided to cut out all sweets for a day.
That's not what this is about. We abandon our own desires and give up the right to make our own decisions.
Jesus words are sacrifice yourself. Become a living sacrifice. We are not our own but were bought with a price. Whatever is God's will. Not mine. I have transferred my will to your will.
Through that I am liberated. Lord wherever you place me I will serve you. God has given each of us gifts for His service. Healthy participation in His body.
A book by a Muslim atheist concluded that the only solution to Isis is that the Christian church be what God called them be. Christ is reflected in his church. The greatest need today is for the church to be disciples of Jesus.

Sunday, September 13, 2015

Essentials by design

I want to live like there's no tomorrow - is that a Christian view? Song sung at www.EasTview.org
This church started 25 years ago this month.
Our downtown campus http://www.one88.org/ is having a baptism.

Pastor Delbert
The plight of humanity is in front of us. Refugees are seared into our memory.
Napalm bombing and the death of a 3 year old boy pictures evoke feelings. What are they?
Orphans are hurting. If you take care of one child things will get better for many. Make it better is my first response. Take care of one is the most important. Can we see a bigger picture.
We need to adopt 2 families from Syria. A Christian family is waiting to be sponsored.
God cares profoundly about what happens.
The next 11 weeks we will look at His Story and reflect on His heartbeat.
This is not about vision. Stop reflect what is God's heartbeat? How do I respond?
Write out what you think His Story is?
To bring glory to the Father.
Can I see myself in God's story? Isaiah 43:7 we have been created for God's glory.  He invites me into His Story.
Sociology says if we believe in something we will act on it. Culture.
3 elements. Values. Narrative (the story you are convinced about). Behavior (the response you are convicted about).
When you see the picture of the earth what comes to mind? Home. Creation. The speck in the universe where we live.
What do we see? Sickness? Who's perspective is this picture from? God's perspective. He is a holy God. While he created this world the angels rejoiced to see what he was doing. Some angels followed the Dragon and rebelled against God. Sin is rebellion against God.
What is God saying to you?
You will hear others with different stories. Blame others. Shame and guilt becomes part of us when we rebel against God.
Everything God created was for our pleasure if we bring glory to Him. That brings pleasure to Him.

Sunday, September 06, 2015

Rock Climbing

Matt Hamilton pastor for http://www.themeetinghouse.com/

I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener.  He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.  You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you.

My friend took me rock climbing. I had to trust him to lower me safely.

We need to abide in the vine in beautiful intimacy. Some of us fixate on the danger of being pruned but the line is that if we abide he will abide.

Pruning will still happen. In order for the backyard tree to blossom the buds must be trimmed so the moisture can flow to the branches. What does pruning mean for us? We all need pruning. Relationships, habits, etc. Where are the people that speak into our lives?

We have a finite amount of energy. Am I connected with the vine? The Jimminie Cricket in us is part of pruning.

Make disciples but not in isolation. Partner together in community with each other and Christ. We are many branches. Get along with the others.

How to celebrate Thanksgiving together? A church family invited a food truck to park in their driveway and invited their care group and their neighbors out to it. 100 people showed up. In the spring 200 people came.

Relationships, relationships. Rose died this week. Her influence was quiet and powerful. A gentle soul that lived well and died well. What a gift. A neighbor was there and realized she learned. God's love. God doesn't hate me but loves me.

Pray for a rejuvenated sense that God will give us the fullness of life in Jesus.

Sunday, August 23, 2015

Unforgettable Mountains: Hope

The children's future included hope on a rope. Andrea
Hope is something God has put in our hearts. The disciples climbed the mount of Olives with Jesus. 40 days after the resurrection they were looking forward to his kingdom on earth. Everything would be great after that. But Jesus told them to go and teach the world. Then Jesus rose into the heavens. Their best friend was gone. Then 2 men in heavenly clothes told them that Jesus is coming back. That gave them hope. We can now wait with hope.

Delbert Enns pastor www.EasTview.org
Today we are looking at the Mount of Olives. Maria had open heart surgery. She is doing well now. Abe was healed from a brain aneurysm and says thank you for answered prayer.
Sometimes we wish we had more faith or hope.
When the clouds cover the hope we had we struggle in the darkness. We think we can get over it all by trying harder.
Is there something out there? Ps 42.5 why am I discouraged? I will put my hope in God and praise him again. Rom 15.13 I pray that God the source of hope will fill you with joy and peace.
We can be filled with positive feelings but the only way to fill your bucket of hope is through the Holy Spirit. The mount of Olives is covered with grave yards because people believe that Jesus will return there and those who are buried there will see him right away. It is also full of churches.
King David bought the Mountain from a pagan. During the Absalom rebellion David walked and wept up the hill of mount Olives.
David understood that you can't fight God. His son was coming after him to kill him.
Ps 33. My hope is in the Lord  We put our hope in the Lord. He is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. Let your unfailing love surround us, Lord, for our hope is in you alone.
A weight machine in the attic doesn't do any good. Faith means exercising hope and change will come.
Modern day idols include possessions. The dark side of the mount of Olives Eze 11. The people of Israel had false hope. The presence of God left. Jerusalem was without the protection of God and waited 3-1/2 years for a change but nothing happened and then left for 400 years until Jesus came.
If you trust in your own things you will lose.
Some of us are building the wrong castle of hope. Trust the one who wants to give you the power of the Holy Spirit. We are blessed with that hope.

Sunday, August 16, 2015

Unforgettable Mountains: Victory / Defeat

Behold the Man upon a cross,
My sin upon His shoulders
Ashamed I hear my mocking voice,
Call out among the scoffers

It was my sin that left Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished

Mount Calvary
Pastor Delbert www.EasTview.org

The world changed that day on that mountain.
Often there is a valley of distress before getting to the summit.
We often have to go through the valley. The quality of life is not measured by the summit experience but by the way we walk through the valley. Are we in a place of ease and our defences are down and we are caught by surprise.
28 years ago a NW flight took off without proper preflight checks. It crashed and a 4 year - old girl survived because her mom covered her. She became the shield of protection.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northwest_Airlines_Flight_255

Jesus has shielded us from the fireball of hell. He have his life to save us.

Calvary. Golgatha. The hill of the skull.
It was the crucifixion place the Romans used. It was meant to get rid of bad people.
Worship is what we give worth ship. Things we value highly. The greatest value gets our best.
That hill has a story. King David wanted to count his army for his own pride.

http://bible.com/116/2sa.24.10.nlt But after he had taken the census, David's conscience began to bother him. And he said to the lord , "I have sinned greatly by taking this census. Please forgive my guilt, lord, for doing this foolish thing."

David built an alter on the land owned by a non Israelite. It became the place of worship for David. He understood his priorities needed to change. He took the ownership for his wrong doing.
The good news is that when I confess my sin God extends forgiveness. That gives us victory in life.
David paid the price for the oxen and the threshing floor.
http://bible.com/116/1ch.22.1.nlt Then David said, "This will be the location for the Temple of the lord God and the place of the altar for Israel's burnt offerings!"
That's also the place where Jesus was crucified.
You don't have to live in pain.

Sunday, August 09, 2015

All People's Church

Dr Gingrich's family from Steinbach with special music.
Ladies vocal trio plus 3 instrumental musicians.
Come ye who mourn

† A Perfect Heart †

Morning sun, light of creation,
Grassy fields of velvet flow.
Silver clouds of shimmering curtains,
He's designed a perfect world.

I'm amazed at His talents,
Stand in awe of one so great,
Now my soul begins to sing out,
To the source from which it came.

Bless the Lord, who reigns in beauty.
Bless the Lord, who reigns with wisdom and with power.
Bless the Lord, who arranged my life with so much love,
He can make a perfect heart. (sing three times)........

Pastor Brian
Welcome
Bible kids camp starts tomorrow Way To Everest
Need a few more volunteers

Lots of kids today

Prayer
Lord, it's a joy to be in your house this morning. Forgive us for the times we forget to honour you. Rejuvenate our spirits and build us up.
Forgive us for ignoring the needs of others. We pray for those in need today. You know what gives is angst this morning.
We look to our nation and pray that you would be with those who want to enter public service that they may remember they serve you. Help us to see that as Christians we are called to pray for the new government that they may uphold your justice.
We pray for those countries with closed doors that the gospel may change their lives.
We pray for our church to be sensitive to the needs of our community.
We pray that our lives may reflect the joy and blessings of Christ who is our life.
Acts 26. Knowing and living in the will and Word of God.
What's next. What should I do?
What is God's will? His Will will be in line with that.
The Scriptures are our guide.

Personal Guidance
How can I distinguish God's will for me?
Paul got arrested and was offered freedom in exchange for money.

2 years later Paul was
brought out to explain himself to the King.  V19 I did not disobey the vision.

http://bible.com/392/act.26.19.CEVUS06 King Agrippa, I obeyed this vision from heaven.
God guides us but there is no formula to figure it out. It's a relationship that leads to discernment. It's not a GPS that directs us turn by turn. In all your ways acknowledge God and he will direct your path.
If we're too busy to spend time with God we can't expect Him to guide us.
God's guidance is not restricted to missionaries. He guides business people as well.
No matter what our profession our main purposes to to serve and honour God.

What is a vision? What do we do with it? Paul got his vision from heaven not his own mind.
The first step has to come from a relationship with God. Psalm delight yourself in God and he will give you what you want is not the right interpretation. If we delight in God his desires will delight us. They become God given desires.

Dr Alf Bell told us to write the key events of your life. The Times when you felt you were in God's will.
Spend time in quite meditation of Scriptures.

A vision from heaven will really envelope you. If you can't really do anything else you'll know you are on the right path.
2 Corinthians 2 we serve God no matter what. We own nothing yet we have everything.
The Christian life has nothing to do with building yourself. The man who built more graneries lost.
Concentration on building your own empires is wrong. A vision from God will always serve others.
A vision will be eternal in significance. Last forever. High profile or behind the scenes - it is about eternal significance.
God's visions will have eternal consequences. Nehemiah 2 he did not say anything about his passion. Eventually the King recognized his vision. God's delays are not God's denials. We may not see all the dreams we expect.
Older people will dream dreams and impart them to young people. Look forward. Join the mission of God.
It's about an eternal vision. That will energize you.

Father we thank you that you are alive and lead us in your steps. We pray that we will have no ambition but to serve you.
It will be worth it all when we see Jesus.

Sunday, August 02, 2015

Prayer

Dwight Plett Mennville EMC
http://www.emconference.ca/churches/mennville/

Inside the Tent of Meeting, the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Afterward Moses would return to the camp, but the young man who assisted him, Joshua son of Nun, would remain behind in the Tent of Meeting.

Moses had a 2 way conversation with God. Sometimes Lorna and I walk through our garden in the evening.
There are many biblical instances of God speaking to people. Job. Enoch. Adam and Eve. Abraham entertained God and spoke to him. John the Baptist was told how to recognize Jesus. Jesus he is God. The disciples heard from God. Paul on the road to Damascus. John and his revelation.

People talk to God. God talks to people.

Does God still speak today? We can as easily stop God from speaking as we can stop the wind.

Are we ready to listen?

What Jesus did on the cross speaks to us for all time. The recorded words of God in the Bible keep us on track.
The stars talk to us about God. Romans 1. No one has an excuse about not knowing God. God speaks to me through nature. In a thunderstorm God speaks about his power. Job, does the rain have a father.

God spoke to me through the safe arrival of a small heifer's calf without help from the vet.

God told me to intervene with an old man. The next day the man thanked me.

It's hard sometimes to make a decision. I had a dream that gave me the confidence to move ahead with a decision.

You have your own stories about how God has spoken to you.
God has the right and ability to speak to you the way he chooses.

God wants to have further conversations with you. He's given us his Word but wants to chat with us. He spoke the first word and we need to respond to him.

We have every advantage. The Holy Spirit, the Bible, Jesus. God will never contradict what he has already said.
Moses had met God and knew he had nothing to brag about.

God has good things in store for us. Let's trust him to be wise and loving even when things are hard.

Sunday, July 26, 2015

All People's Church

Chair Audrey Hill professor of English literature at the University of Winnipeg.
Ephesians 3.17.21
May your boots go down deep into the love of God. Be filled up with God himself.
Pastor Brian Hamilton
Mission focus Sunday. Dominican Republic and Cuba http://afccanada.org/
Biblical. Missional. Evangelical.
Soul Purpose musical group from Niverville Pansey

For bookings/c.d. sales, contact Coralee Warkentin at: (204)-434-9081 or  (204)-326-6374   or email at:mysoulpurpose@gmail.com

Kids Camp August 10-14
Golf tournament August 8

"Come As You Are"

Come out of sadness
From wherever you've been
Come broken hearted
Let rescue begin
Come find your mercy
Oh sinner come kneel
Earth has no sorrow
That heaven can't heal
Earth has no sorrow
That heaven can't heal

So lay down your burdens
Lay down your shame
All who are broken
Lift up your face
Oh wanderer come home
You're not too far
So lay down your hurt
Lay down your heart
Come as you are

There's hope for the hopeless
And all those who've strayed
Come sit at the table
Come taste the grace
There's rest for the weary
Rest that endures
Earth has no sorrow
That heaven can't cure

So lay down your burdens
Lay down your shame
All who are broken
Lift up your face
Oh wanderer come home
You're not too far
So lay down your hurt
Lay down your heart
Come as you are
Come as you are
Fall in his arms
Come as you are
There's joy for the morning
Oh sinner be still
Earth has no sorrow
That heaven can't heal
Earth has no sorrow
That heaven can't heal

So lay down your burdens
Lay down your shame
All who are broken
Lift up your face
Oh wanderer come home
You're not too far
So lay down your hurt
Lay down your heart
Come as you are
Come as you are
Come as you are

Who breaks the power of sin and darkness? The King of Glory the King above all Kings. This is amazing love.
You lay down Your life
That I would be set free
Oh, Jesus, I sing for
All that You've done for me
Worthy is the lamb who was slain.
http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/philwickham/thisisamazinggrace.html

Lord I come I confess you're the one that guides my heart Lord I need your how I need you http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/mattmaher/lordineedyou.html

http://www.gospelmusicfestivals.net/links.html

God gives to give
Psalm who am I our days are like a shadow

11 The days of my life are like an evening shadow. I dry up like grass. 

12 But Lord, you are seated on your throne forever. Your fame will continue for all time to come. 

13 You will rise up and show deep concern for Zion. The time has come for you to show favor to it

God is always a giving God. My son said "Mine" of the ice cream I bought for him. Whose was it really? Do we forget where our blessings come from?
God is the source of everything. V14
Everything we have comes from God. There is nothing I have that is not God's
God's power. Everything. Strength to all. None of us knows when our life will end.
God's amazing power leads us and directs us.

Yours will be the only name that matters to me. Your love is all I've ever needed.

Monday, July 20, 2015

9 Phrases Smart People Never Use In Conversation

Dr. Travis Bradberry
Coauthor Emotional Intelligence 2.0 & President at TalentSmart
9 Phrases Smart People Never Use In Conversation
July 13, 2015

We've all said things that people interpreted much differently than we thought they would. These seemingly benign comments lead to the awful feeling that only comes when you've planted your foot firmly into your mouth.

Verbal slip-ups often occur because we say things without knowledge of the subtle implications they carry. Understanding these implications requires social awareness—the ability to pick up on the emotions and experiences of other people.

TalentSmart has tested the emotional intelligence (EQ) of more than a million people and discovered that social awareness is a skill in which many of us are lacking.

We lack social awareness because we're so focused on what we're going to say next—and how what other people are saying affects us—that we completely lose sight of other people.

This is a problem because people are complicated. You can't hope to understand someone until you focus all of your attention in his or her direction.

The beauty of social awareness is that a few simple adjustments to what you say can vastly improve your relationships with other people.

To that end, there are some phrases that emotionally intelligent people are careful to avoid in casual conversation. The following phrases are nine of the worst offenders. You should avoid them at all costs.

1. "You look tired."

Tired people are incredibly unappealing—they have droopy eyes and messy hair, they have trouble concentrating, and they're as grouchy as they come. Telling someone he looks tired implies all of the above and then some.

Instead say: "Is everything okay?" Most people ask if someone is tired because they're intending to be helpful (they want to know if the other person is okay). Instead of assuming someone's disposition, just ask. This way, he can open up and share. More importantly, he will see you as concerned instead of rude.

2. "Wow, you've lost a ton of weight!"

Once again, a well-meaning comment—in this case a compliment—creates the impression that you're being critical. Telling someone that she has lost a lot of weight suggests that she used to look fat or unattractive.

Instead say: "You look fantastic." This one is an easy fix. Instead of comparing how she looks now to how she used to look, just compliment her for looking great. It takes the past right out of the picture.

3. "You were too good for her anyway."

When someone severs ties with a relationship of any type, personal or professional, this comment implies he has bad taste and made a poor choice in the first place.

Instead say: "Her loss!" This provides the same enthusiastic support and optimism without any implied criticism.

4. "You always…" or "You never…"

No one always or never does anything. People don't see themselves as one-dimensional, so you shouldn't attempt to define them as such. These phrases make people defensive and closed off to your message, which is a really bad thing because you likely use these phrases when you have something important to discuss.

Instead say: Simply point out what the other person did that's a problem for you. Stick to the facts. If the frequency of the behavior is an issue, you can always say, "It seems like you do this often." or "You do this often enough for me to notice."

5. "You look great for your age."

Using "for your" as a qualifier always comes across as condescending and rude. No one wants to be smart for an athlete or in good shape relative to other people who are also knocking on death's door. People simply want to be smart and fit.

Instead say: "You look great." This one is another easy fix. Genuine compliments don't need qualifiers.

6. "As I said before…"

We all forget things from time to time. This phrase makes it sound as if you're insulted at having to repeat yourself, which is hard on the recipient (someone who is genuinely interested in hearing your perspective). Getting insulted over having to repeat yourself suggests that either you're insecure or you think you're better than everyone else (or both!). Few people who use this phrase actually feel this way.

Instead say: When you say it again, see what you can do to convey the message in a clearer and more interesting manner. This way they'll remember what you said.

7. "Good luck."

This is a subtle one. It certainly isn't the end of the world if you wish someone good luck, but you can do better because this phrase implies that they need luck to succeed.

Instead say: "I know you have what it takes." This is better than wishing her luck because suggesting that she has the skills needed to succeed provides a huge boost of confidence. You'll stand out from everyone else who simply wishes her luck.

8. "It's up to you." or "Whatever you want."

While you may be indifferent to the question, your opinion is important to the person asking (or else he wouldn't have asked you in the first place).

Instead say: "I don't have a strong opinion either way, but a couple things to consider are…" When you offer an opinion (even without choosing a side), it shows that you care about the person asking.

9. "Well at least I've never ___."

This phrase is an aggressive way to shift attention away from your mistake by pointing out an old, likely irrelevant mistake the other person made (and one you should have forgiven her for by now).

Instead say: "I'm sorry." Owning up to your mistake is the best way to bring the discussion to a more rational, calm place so that you can work things out. Admitting guilt is an amazing way to prevent escalation.

Bringing It All Together

In everyday conversation, it's the little things that make all the difference. Try these suggestions out, and you'll be amazed at the positive response you get.

What other phrases should people avoid? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below as I learn just as much from you as you do from me.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dr. Travis Bradberry is the award-winning co-author of the #1 bestselling book, Emotional Intelligence 2.0, and the cofounder of TalentSmart, the world's leading provider of emotional intelligence tests and training, serving more than 75% of Fortune 500 companies. His bestselling books have been translated into 25 languages and are available in more than 150 countries. Dr. Bradberry has written for, or been covered by, Newsweek, TIME, BusinessWeek, Fortune, Forbes, Fast Company, Inc., USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and The Harvard Business Review.

Raymond Dueck

204.782.2112
sent by an droid device

Sunday, July 19, 2015

Unforgettable Mountains Worship

www.EasTview.org
Lori Thomas is up in Midway Bible Camp

Children's feature
What can a fire do?
Keep us warm help us cook.
How to put the fire out. Put water on it.
Elijah the prophet 1 Kings 18:17-46
Elijah only listened to messages from the one true God. 850 prophets worshipped Baal. They all went to the top of the mountain and made their offerings. Elijah challenged the real God to set the offering on fire. Baal couldn't. Elijah's God could even after the offering was soaked in water.

Mark Enns
The greatest injustice today is not worshipping Jesus in righteousness.
God walks up to any situation to overcome every evil thing. God challenged the whole world and sent Jesus to lift us from the deepest pit.
Lord send me. You will meet the challenge.
We can't stand up to Satan on our own. He'll screw up everything he can.
Peter my friend tried to annoy me. When I tried get back at him he shook his finger and said no.
Is Jesus good news or good history? Both.
When you preach the gospel the gospel happens. Mark 16.
Are we afraid to talk about Jesus? We are called to be bold witnesses. Reinhard Bonnke preached in Botswana.  He has totally dedicated himself to soul-winning for 50 years now. He has a laser-sharp focus on winning souls. Through his ministry, Christ for All Nations, over 73 million people have made registered decisions to follow Jesus Christ. 
When he started only one church was willing to support him. God told him to rent the stadium. 100 people showed up. 1 person was healed during the service. If you preach Jesus healing will happen.
Isaiah. Jesus was unjustly condemned and led away to be killed. It was God's plan. Jesus now needs to be glorified. He needs to be honoured. He deserves all the glory.
2 Timothy 2:9 the word of God cannot be changed.
We will live with him.
If we know Jesus, our appropriate response is to honour Jesus. Whatever job you have talk about Jesus. The needs to be #1. If it is your workplace will change.

I will stand up to the greatest injustice and teach others to honour Jesus.
God is in the business of restoration.

Sunday, July 12, 2015

The Chosen One

http://www.themeetinghouse.com/
Exodus 4
The first born son was the intimate person for a father. More important one.
Precious intimate one.
First borns God/Israel Pharaoh/son Moses/Gersham
5 excuses of Moses
I'm nobody
I'm no theologian
They won't believe
I don't talk good
I don't want to
God says what's in your hand?
Throw your staff on the ground. Pick up the snake by the tail. The cobra was the symbol of Egypt's power. We have the cobra by the tail. We have far more power than Egypt.
3rd sign. Water from the Nile river will turn into blood the first plague.
V10 I don't speak well never have. Stephen says Moses was powerful in speech. God says I will be with your mouth. You know I am the creator. Moses says send someone else. God says I'll send your brother as emotional support. Relational dynamics. God.
Moses goes back to his family and asks his father in law and gets his blessing. He takes his sons and his wife and God's staff.
God says I will harden Pharaoh's heart. Next Sunday.
V24 at a lodging place God tried to kill Moses but Zipporah cut off her son's foreskin and threw it at Moses.
Obedience is a big deal. Circumcision is a sign God gave Abraham. Moses had ignored that command till now. He might have been a doubter. Moses is an excuse making machine. He ignored that little thing. His ego was in the way. God had to find someone else.  Gersham was a young adult. This created a major mother son problem. She called Moses her bridegroom of blood. She had saved Moses's life.  She was another strong woman. She then took her sons back home.
What is in your hand?
What are you leaving undone? Are you trying to keep some things private? Do you have a Zipporah in your life? She's always right.
Who do you need to help you?
Embrace your help.
Circumcision. What's the deal. Symbolic. God wants to take the most sensitive part of your heart and get rid of anything that gets between you and your God.
Have the courage to let God to circumcise your heart.
Give us the courage to cling to you God.

Sunday, July 05, 2015

All People's Church notes

Cornie "Elvis" Rempel and sisters music for a full house today. 200
Fundraiser golf tournament coming up.
Kids Camp August 10-14 needs Nordic decorations and volunteers.
July 26 missions Sunday focus on Cuba and D.R. to buy sheep and goats.

Pastor Brian Hamilton:
Pastoral prayer
Thank you Father for being our awesome God. We can depend on you to sustain us and forgive us for all the ways we fail you. Thank you for calling us back to fellowship with you in Jesus. So often we become petty and angry. We lift up our health concerns. We look for wisdom. Thank you that we live in a free country. We pray for those who are being persecuted. Give them joy and trust in you.
We pray for the fall election that those who are elected that they will honour you.
We pray for Christians everywhere that they would have the courage to invite others to you.

Elvis. Gospel music was a big part of his life. All his backup singers had to be ready at an time to sing with him.
There's a sweet sweet spirit in this place. I know this is the presence of the Lord. Sweet Holy Spirit. Stay right here with us filling us with your love.
Elvis we love you.
When the storms of life are raging stand by me.

Message
We want to be within the circle of God's grace
Psalm 39
Where can I flee from your Spirit? Even the darkness is as light to You. You made me in that secret place.
Preached this at the funeral of the 11 year old friend of my daughter.
Does God have a plan for me? Or is it all the luck of the draw?
We need to work with the hand we have?
We are always looking for answers. 80% of north American newspapers carry the astrology charts and people make decisions based on that.
Why?
We live in a misty morning and by noon it is burned off.
Lord you have examined my heart. You know me. You direct me. You have a plan for me. Before I was born you had a plan for me. I was not a surprise. Not a mistake. No one is a mistake. God didn't say where did that one come from?
Your life has purpose. God wants to guide and direct you. How do I know the will of God in my life? How can I discover it? Will God write it in the snow?
Don't ask for me? Ask what is the will of God for the world. How can I be an expression of God in the world?
What has God been doing and what will he continue to do in this world. God created you because He has things to do that you and I can be part of. God has a plan. How can I be part of that?
The body of Christ has many parts. Every single part of the body is important. Where do I fit?
Story of St Benedict. When the monastery was built he asked different people what they were doing. 3 of the workers talked about the jobs they were doing. The 4th said I'm building a cathedral while digging in the dirt. He had the vision.
We are not pawns on the big board. We are loved. It is out of that love that I can say I'm building the cathedral of God. It has nothing to do with whether I feel fulfilled or not.
God knows what He is doing. We are objects of His love and subjects of the King Jesus. We need to be in submission to his Lordship. So our lives might be blessed by Him. We tend not to want Him to be or master. The rich young ruler was unwilling to be fully committed to Jesus. No one can serve 2 masters. Get rid of your old master. Jesus did not negotiate with the rich guy.
He wanted a perfect life without giving up any of his earthly benefits.
We can trust him because He loves us.

Sunday, June 28, 2015

Unforgettable Mountains: Promises

I shall not be moved. Ever. Stand strong on the unshakable Immovable Eternal One.

http://bible.com/111/psa.12.1-4.niv Help, Lord , for no one is faithful anymore; those who are loyal have vanished from the human race. Everyone lies to their neighbor; they flatter with their lips but harbor deception in their hearts. May the Lord silence all flattering lips and every boastful tongue— those who say, "By our tongues we will prevail; our own lips will defend us—who is lord over us?"

Dave Ens pastor www.EasTview.org

This summer we explore Events that took place on mountain tops. There are lots of them in the Bible.
We talk about mountain top experiences. Defining moments don't last forever. It felt so good. But they don't last. They are the point of our relationship with God. The danger is that we keep chasing a new variant of the experience rather than letting them impact and change my life.
Noah was on top of Mt Ararat. That's a difficult story to work through. Every inclination of the human heart was wicked. The bright spot is Noah. He was listening to God. He did as God commanded him to do.

Gen 7:17 Every living thing that moved on land perished—birds, livestock, wild animals, all the creatures that swarm over the earth, and all mankind. Everything on dry land that had the breath of life in its nostrils died. Every living thing on the face of the earth was wiped out; people and animals and the creatures that move along the ground and the birds were wiped from the earth. Only Noah was left, and those with him in the ark.

Nothing else anywhere. What did Noah feel. Despondent? Going nowhere. Cut off from everything.
How long oh Lord will you forget me?

At age 8 the house was being renovated. When  Dave came out of the bathroom all the windows were black. No one there. Turned out the stucco guys had covered the whole house with tar paper.

Gen 8. But God remembered Noah. Those are the most beautiful words in the Bible.
God is with us.

8.21.ESV And when the Lord smelled the pleasing aroma, the Lord said in his heart, "I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the intention of man's heart is evil from his youth. Neither will I ever again strike down every living creature as I have done.

God chose another way to reconcile the world to himself. Never again will he disenfranchise humanity.

We get a glimpse of his promise to restore mankind.

This is a But God Moment. Repeated in Rom 5.8.ESV but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Sunday, June 21, 2015

Thirsty: bless me oh my father

Pastor Delbert Enns:
Calvin from Calvin and Hobbes didn't want to put in the effort to be successful.

What happens when there is so much dysfunction around us we can't move forward? Do we lose the passion?

Today is Father's Day and without a relationship with our heavenly Father it is impossible to explain what a good father is.

Randy's story video. Dad was a military man. Jeff Vanderstahl became an example of how to be a loving father.

Genesis 27:2-4 shows a dysfunctional family of Isaac and Rebecca. To pass on the blessing was a huge thing. The story is not so much about Isaac as about God. Rebecca sent her favorite son in before Esau had a chance. Jacob told a long string of lies. Just to get the blessing. That's humanity. We tell lies.
Read the blessing:  May God give you dew from heaven and make your fields fertile! May he give you plenty of grain and wine!  May nations be your servants, and may peoples bow down before you. May you rule over all your relatives, and may your mother's descendants bow down before you. May those who curse you be cursed, and may those who bless you be blessed."

When we go to our heavenly Father he blesses us all the time. Esau knew he got the short end of the stick. This as an example of dysfunctional family.

1. Meaningful touch. Kiss me my son. That was so important in that culture. We have a culture of fear. We are so sterilized.
Jesus touched the children and blessed them. Start hugging. Everyone loves to be hugged and blessed.
Met ex Muslims that wanted to be baptised at Lake Victoria. He held my hand while walking to the baptismal site.

2. Affection. You smell like a field. We walk away from people with body odor.

3. May God bless you with wine. Jesus's first miracle was party wine. The party begins when Jesus shows up. What's wrong with us and our long faces? What does it look like for us to become party value add?

4. Glorious future. Be blessed! When you are loved and cared for you will have lots of friends that want to be part of what you do.
We think we gain value by doing things. What's so amazing about Grace? Start hugging more people. Prodigal daughter. She thinks her parents are too strict and leaves home and becomes a prostitute. When she finally comes home she is welcomed with open arms. A big party is waiting. I want to love you. You don't need to say anything. When the father's blessing comes the real party begins.

Prayer: the Father's love sent his Son to give eternal life not to condemn you. Father we confess that we are not that good at accepting your unconditional love. Help us to remember that the blood of Jesus paid our debt.

What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Sunday, June 14, 2015

Lord's Prayer

All People's Church Falcon Lake
Pastor Brian
Matthew 6
This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in heaven: May your holy name be honored;  may your Kingdom come; may your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.  Give us today the food we need.  Forgive us the wrongs we have done, as we forgive the wrongs that others have done to us.  Do not bring us to hard testing, but keep us safe from the Evil One.'

Is your prayer life exactly where you want it to be? Not likely. The disciples asked Jesus "teach us to pray" not how.
They noticed Jesus didn't do structured prayer but real prayer. V6 pray secretly.

1. There is a reward of prayer.
We think a real prayer should be answered. But God wants to reward us for prayer time. The Pharisees prayed publicly so they could be collecting compliments and get their reward from people.
God wants us to pray in secret and will reward us. It's not about words but about communion with God. Seeking God with all our hearts. It's not a magic formula. It's not the words that make us Christian but the new life God gives to those who genuinely seek him.
Be aware that the Lord's Prayer often becomes just vain repetition.
Our Father. This is the first time in the Bible that God is called father. ABBA (daddy). Jesus calls God Father 17 times.
We are adopted by God as his children. We can now call him Daddy.
Our Father is limitless in capacity. Big enough to help us with every issue we ever face.
We need to open up in intimacy with God. That can be difficult. That Honest communion with God is the reward that God gives us.

2. Alignment with God. Your will be done on earth and in my life. Me aligned with God. Sin interrupts the flow of God's will. Isaiah said here am I send me. Never pray this prayer if you're not serious about doing God's will.

3. Prayer brings us the provision of God. Daily not monthly supplies. We are not entitled to long term enough. Ask God for relief from fear for the future. Proverbs says I need only what I need for today. Contentment is great gain. Be Content or you jeopardize your intimacy with God. The Lord is my shepherd. We ask for bread not cake. It's OUR bread. That includes the neighbor. Share it. It is a gift. Not a right. All material possessions are on loan from God.
Our union with God makes us a blessing to the world. Forgive as we forgive. It takes 2 people to build a relationship. Forgiveness in us is God flowing through us.
God is not the author of temptation. When you travel into the desert you must have a capable guide. We are pilgrims traveling with a divine guide. Lord we trust you to guide us in the right path. Keep us from the deceit of Satan.

In the secret place God will reward us. Challenge to become a people of prayer. Yours is the power and the kingdom.

Sunday, June 07, 2015

Falcon Lake all people's church

Pastor Brian
Kids camp is August 10-14 volunteers are still needed.
The Love of God was the favorite theme of Brian's professor Dr Murray. Brian was invited to his house for supper. The professor and his wife sat side by side at dinner holding hands. All his life was about showing God's love.

Pastoral prayer: wars and rumours of war in the Ukraine and Africa. God is sufficient.
Lord we can't begin to describe the depth of your love. We can't fathom such love. Thank you that you are the creator God. We don't always honour you and we ask for your forgiveness and restoration. We want to walk in your mercy and come boldly into your presence to meet our needs and help us in our struggles.
We ask that you pour out your healing on our friends and family. Help us all to rest in you.
We pray for those who are confused in life and we pray that you give guidance.
We pray for our brothers and sisters around the world that are being persecuted. We pray for protection and peace for them.
You have asked us to bring peace. We pray for the persecutors that you will reveal yourself to them in dreams and teach peace to everyone.
We pray that the glory of Christ may shine on everyone. Amen.

Acts 15. A foundational story that keeps touching us.
Jewish believers told gentile believers they had to be circumcised. The church sent Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem for a ruling.
What was at stake here? To be a Jew you had to be circumcised.
God promised Abraham a son that would become a nation and the messiah would come from there. 
God established a global blessing.
Some of the Jews thought that to be in a proper relationship with God you needed Jewish rules plus Christ.
They missed the point that Jesus fulfilled the Scriptures. Jesus was the finishing touch. All the roads of Jewish scriptures point to Christ and are fulfilled in Jesus. Jesus is not just an add on. In Christ alone my hope is found.
The prosperity gospel says Jesus affirms that the godly will be rich. That is so wrong. They miss the transformational power of Jesus.
Many denominations have been built around the prosperity slogan. But there is always a catch.
Jesus offers salvation as a gift of God. Nothing more nothing less. The Jesus plus gospel is so wrong.
Acts 15. We are saved by faith in Jesus. Nothing else.
Some believers said it is necessary to circumcise.
The law does not bring freedom. Jews can't keep the law. God's grace does it all.
We should not make it difficult for new believers. We need to reach people for Christ and resist putting burdens on new believers.

One day Bunky Baker came to church. He rode a bike always drunk. What does he think he is doing in church? Isn't this the place for messed up people?

Our only contribution to salvation is the Sin from which I need saving. It's not Jesus Plus. It's Jesus. He is the answer for the world today. Thank you Jesus. You came for sinners and that's who I am.

Father. Simple things can be so hard for us. Jesus I trust you alone. Give me the gift of the Spirit of God. I celebrate.

Sunday, May 31, 2015

The Meeting House. Self Control

Get Smart Mel Brooks
Kaos vs Control in the 60s
http://m.imdb.com/title/tt0058805/

Hippies said no control means love. It was a good example of no self control. Selfish feelings. The Jesus Movement came out of that. I'm not finding real love without Jesus. Self Control changed everything. In power control. Strict training.
Plato was the first to start using the term in the way Paul used it.
Gluttony is but one absence if self control. For others it's addiction to narcotics or media addictions or gossip or gambling or  newness or news or work

Galatians 5 http://bible.com/59/gal.5.13.ESV For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
The struggles or successes of today are partly a result of what you seeded yesterday. Beware of purported experiences of the Holy Spirit that are founded on loss of self control. The Spirit helps us with self control. Debauchery is not being filled with the Spirit. Getting wasted is not self control. Why waste my life when the Spirit will help me love better?
Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness. The Spirit will lead us away from temptation. Plant to the Spirit.
Hungry
Angry
Lonely
Tired HALT
Stop to create the space to think. Buy anti porn software. Give your credit card for someone to hold and divide your cash in envelopes. Unfriend someone. You may feel loss or grief while you starve sinful desires.
Togethering helps us to be real and pursue righteousness. They can help you to decide on who to separate from.
When you say no to temptations you honour God. Moving forward by considering the wins.
When you are under stress how do you avoid cheese cake? Or games or t.v.? Sometimes they do help destress. But be careful not to let the relaxers take control of your time.
Write down what your temptations are and how can you run away from temptations. Who are you going to talk to about it?

Sunday, May 24, 2015

Meeting House Love and Gentleness

http://www.themeetinghouse.com/locations/downtown-toronto/
Baptism at 2:30 today at the Baptist church
Raised $208,000 worth of clothes for MCC.

Week 6 Love Joy Peace

Gentleness meekness are the same Greek Word
Love is expressed in joy peace patience kindness goodness
Means power that is restrained. Bear reproach without revenge.
Gentleness is not for women only. Not pacivity. Not weakness. Helping others get better. Strength that serves. Power under control.
My strength is on your side. St Bernard Rescue Dogs are born to help. I'm strong enough to serve you.

Galatians 5.22 will start a summer series on Exodus.
Let us keep in step with the spirit. Restore mend set a broken bone. With a spirit of Gentleness.
The law of Christ means the way of Christ. Love is the way of Christ.

Help someone who has been overtaken by sin. Gently. Help someone today.
Gentleness is for everyone. Be completely humble. Blessed are the gentle for they will Win new territory. Gentleness from Wisdom. Kind to everyone. Opponents must be gently instructed. How you respond says who you are.

Pray for pastors and teachers. They easily switch to an angry voice. Anger and judgment and a zeal for holiness sometimes take over and the angry voice becomes confusing the love of Jesus.

Our society celebrates fame and accomplishments but not gentleness.

Jesus is our model in humility and gentleness. Catch the vision.

"Come to me. .. My burden is light. You get rest" Freedom of relationship with God. Freedom from the world of religion.
Gayle D Erwin.

We mourn with those who mourn the victims. Sorrow grieves with others. Anger zeroes in on the perpetrator.

Gentleness says I will serve you for the best of all. Paul publicly rebuked Peter about the wrong attitude.
Have we lost the ability to grieve? There are people who come alongside and help bear each other's burden.

What does it mean to be filled with the spirit of gentleness?
Prayer. Heavenly father thank you for the mentorship of Christ. Lead us.

Sunday, May 17, 2015

All Peoples Church Falcon Lake

Service starts at 9:45 Sunday.
Choir from E Free Church Steinbach. It's worth the trip.
Rev George Bell will be speaking next Sunday. Pastor Brian Hamilton will be in Nova Scotia at his aunt's 98 birthday party next Sunday.
Choir. How marvelous how wonderful is my Savior's love for me. WOW!
My faith has found a resting place. It is enough that Jesus died and that he died for me. My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus love. All other ground is sinking sand. There is wonderful power in the blood of the Lamb. I have faith and hope.

Hymn To God be the glory.
Pastor's Prayer: Father we come into your presence. You are the Lord of Lords the Creator of the universe. We sit in awe and wonder that you invite us into your presence. Forgive us for failing you and each other. Allow the spirit to change us into the image of Christ. There are struggles we face. Confusion not knowing where to turn. Let it work out to your glory.
We think of those in Nepal and those in countries torn up in war. The church that is persecuted. Fill them with joy.
Help us. In Jesus name. Amen.
Choir. In Christ alone my hope is found. He is my life. What heights of love what depths of peace. I am His and He is mine. No guilt. No fear of death. In Christ alone I stand.

Pastor Brian wants that song to be sung at his funeral.

Ascension Sunday.
The Uniqueness of Christ. Luke 9.26. He preached this message in the Dominican. A young man came up after and said I disagree with you.
The mount of Transfiguration. Moses and Elijah showed up. Jesus's clothing changed to white as lightening. Moses was buried by God in an unknown grave. He did not die of old age. Elijah was snatched up to heaven in a whirlwind. After having been dead for 1500 years suddenly Moses shows up. The law of Moses pointed to Christ. Elijah was the first prophet of the gospel. They said to the disciples: This is the one we pointed to years ago. They discussed Jesus's departure from this earth. When Jesus was taken up into heaven there were 2 men telling the disciples why are you looking up into heaven?
In Revelation 2 men show up. Elijah prophecied to stop the rain. Moses turned water into blood. They will do it again at the end of days.

When the disciples recovered from the shock they wanted to build 3 booths. A Jesus booth, Elijah booth, and a Moses booth.
Jesus is absolutely unique. Not just your truth. He is THE absolute truth. He is the only way to God. That has led to so much persecution. Is that arrogance? Jesus is who he said he is our else a liar and a fraud.
Jesus is The TRUTH. Salvation is found in no one else. Other religions can give a sense of security. Only Jesus can save.
On the mountain God said: Jesus is my son. Listen to him!
Is Jesus God? Or just another prophet? A channel of divine power?
Christ is unique and Moses and Elijah testified to that. Isaiah gave a graphic description of Jesus's death long before crucifixion was even invented. Psalm 22 Jesus declared it fulfilled when he died. It was written 1000 years before it happened.
Revelation 11.15. The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of Christ and He will reign forever and ever.
Jesus appears in Revelation over and over. All of history will wind down at the feet of Jesus. He is the focus of history. Jesus is unique. There is no parallel. No competitor. Jesus alone can reconcile us to God.
Do you know this Jesus? There is no other ultimate truth. It is Christ or nothing!
Prayer. Only you Jesus can give us life. Give us life-changing confidence.

Choir: Amazing Grace how sweet the sound. I once was lost but now I'm found. Was blind but now I see. How precious did that Grace appear. Through many dangers toils and snares Grace has led me through.
When we've been there 10,000 years bright shining as the sun we've no less days to sing God's praise than when we first begun.

Sunday, May 10, 2015

Christ in Community boundaries

www.EasTview.org Parent child dedication. Samara, Norah, Marcus.
Mother's Day
The challenges and rewards of motherhood. Taking care of us for life.
Kids drive me crazy always pushing the boundaries.
Kids are in because they are the kids.

Songs and men's choir
Greatly Blessed, Highly Favored. Imperfect God forgiven child of God http://www.guitaretab.com/g/gaither-vocal-band/321101.html
10,000 Reasons
Days Of Elijah
Forever Reign 25%

Dave Ens
See Christ in the Old Testament. Where do we we see Jesus? We want to be involved. We learn by doing.

When the rubber hits the road things get complicated.  People in church have different ideas. Some are easy to get along with others are not. Saints can be harder to get along with than the sinners.

There can be no wholeness without community. That's where Christ can be seen. You can't follow Jesus on your own. You need to submit your individual rights to the community of Jesus. Get away from sectarianism. Jesus is praying that his followers should be one as the trinity is one. John 17.
The love God pours into us and forms a community of love. We must love one another if we want to love outsiders.
Www.one88.org put on a dinner last night. The men that put it on learned to work together to make it happen.

The 10 commandments were given to create successful community. First you have to honour God and then your neighbor.

Short Form.
1. You shall have no other gods before Me.
2. You shall not make idols.
3. You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain.
4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.
5. Honor your father and your mother.
6. You shall not murder.
7. You shall not commit adultery.
8. You shall not steal.
9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
10. You shall not covet.