The Audience

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April 30, 2013

"The Audience"

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 95:6 (HCSBO) Come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.

Devotional Reading:

Worship is the number one ministry priority in our church. We hope and pray that the weekend worship will be the most exciting and meaningful event of each person's week.  As the new week begins, worship can become the springboard to take you to new heights, a place for Christians to get their spiritual batteries charged, and a place for seekers to find God.  Soren Kierkegaard, a Danish philosopher in the 19th century, once clarified the most common misconception about worship using the analogy of a drama. "When we come to worship God, we generally feel as though the preacher and other ministers are the performers and God is the subject of the performance and we as the congregation are merely the audience...but this is a terrible misunderstanding of worship."  Kierkegard is describing a consumer-oriented approach, focused more on what we receive than what we give. Kierkegard goes on to say, "Authentic Christian worship is just the opposite. We, the congregation, are the performers. The preachers and other ministers are the directors of the performance and God is the audience."  Next time you worship, try this perspective. It just might make it a more meaningful experience.  Wow, does that just knock your socks off or what.  Imagine, in worship service, God is the audience, just as He is the audience in all aspects of our life.

Keep the Son in your eyes,
Pastor Ben J Lahay 
Galatians 2:20

Hope in Loss

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April 29, 2013

"Hope in Loss"

Scripture Reading:
John 15:2 (HCSBO) Every branch in Me that does not produce fruit He removes, and He prunes every branch that produces fruit so that it will produce more fruit.

Devotional Reading:

Are you a gardener? Do you enjoy seeing things grow? If so, you understand the principle that a plant must be pruned in order to produce at its peak.  Have you ever stopped to consider the plant being pruned?  Does it hurt or feel pain?  Nonetheless, we know dead wood and unhealthy parts must be cut away.  Pruning is a reality in the garden, but it's also a very real part of human life. Because God loves us, sometimes He chooses to prune our lives. This may come through the loss of a job or a loved one, or a move away from something that's comfortable for us.  We may be separated from a life long friendship.  It may happen in many ways when we face adversity.  What is accomplished by pruning? For the plant, it's a healthier and more vigorous growth with more fruit. For us, it's the ability to rely more completely on God, our source of life, and the ability to live a more spiritually secure and disciplined life.  Pruning is painful; but it allows us to live a more fruitful life. With God, pruning always gives us hope.

Keep the Son in your eyes,
Pastor Ben J Lahay 
Galatians 2:20

Things

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April 26, 2013

"Things"

Scripture Reading:
1 Timothy 6:7 (HCSBO) For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out.

Devotional Reading:

I've been a pastor for many years, and have attended a lot of funerals. But I've never seen a moving van following the hearse.  Think about the priorities and the interests in your life. How much time is spent acquiring and hoarding things you simply can't take with you? The Bible states that we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take any stuff out of it either.  We leave behind our integrity and our legacy.  The most important thing you take with you is eternal destiny.  This is either "in or out".  In the words of Uncle Si, "If you do not know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you are going to hell, and that's a fact jack!"  It's good to focus on the things that last--like God and building eternal treasure.  This treasure can be stored up immediately and cashed in when you see Jesus.  It is more precious than diamonds and gold.

Keep the Son in your eyes,
Pastor Ben J Lahay 
Galatians 2:20

Through A Child's Eyes

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April 25, 2013

"Through A Child's Eyes"

Scripture Reading:
Matthew 18:3 (HCSBO)  "I assure you," He said, "unless you are converted and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven..."

Devotional Reading:

Have you ever stopped, slowed down and imagined life through the eyes of a child?  Can you remember when you were young and the pace of life was radically different?  A child is innocent and trusting, they do not see a predator or a terrorist behind every corner or at every turn.  A child has imagination and can see things that as we get older we forget about and no longer use.  Some of the best toys we have ever received growing up, was actually the packaging (boxes) the toy came in.  Heading outside to collect some things:  sticks, rocks, flowers, grass, and of course bugs.  Life is an adventure when you are a child.  Mom and dad are your heroes.  They can do no wrong and no one is better than they are.  The only comparisons we make are about things we collected.  We have the entire world before us and being a teenager seems like an eternity away.  SO what changes?  What is the difference?  When does life move in and disrupt our bubble?  I think it's when we stop having fun...when we begin to take things too serious.  When we loose sight of the big picture.  Our imagination gets gobbled up by reality.  As the world around us begins to decay, our Spirit begins to decay, our life begins to decay and we begin to grow old.  A child looks out his window at the world and says, "WOW", but adults look out the same window and exclaim, "ugh, another day".

Keep the Son in your eyes,
Pastor Ben J Lahay 
Galatians 2:20

Replacing Drudgery

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April 24, 2013

"Replacing Drudgery"

Scripture Reading:
Hebrews 6:10 (HCSBO)  For God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you showed for His name when you served the saints—and you continue to serve them.

Devotional Reading:

The story is told of a woman who cleaned the same office building for many years. When asked how she endured the drudgery of doing the same chores day in and day out, she replied, "It's not drudgery. You see, I'm working for the King and He's pleased along with others when I do my best."  This woman found the secret to satisfying work. Her focus was not on the tasks, but on the Lord and people. She focused on serving the Lord and her fellow man. How about you? When was the last time you found joy in your work?  The Bible gives us a key: "Whatever you do...do all for the glory of God." When we work for the Lord and to serve other people, work can bring us joy and fulfillment. It all depends on our attitude.  Are you anticipating another day of drudgery?   Do you "have to go to work"?  of do you "get to go to work"?  That's what you'll probably get. But if you're planning to live this day to please God and to serve others, you may be surprised how the drudgery is replaced by meaning and purpose.

Keep the Son in your eyes,
Pastor Ben J Lahay 
Galatians 2:20

Principle Is True

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April 23, 2013

"The Principle Holds True"

Scripture Reading:
2 Kings 18:19-22 (HCSBO)  Then he Rabshakeh said to them, “Tell Hezekiah this is what the great king, the king of Assyria, says: ‘What are you relying on?...Suppose you say to me: We trust in the Lord our God. Isn’t He the One whose high places and altars Hezekiah has removed, saying to Judah and to Jerusalem: You must worship at this altar in Jerusalem?’

Devotional Reading:

During the filming of the old classic movie, Ben Hur, Charleton Heston had a terrible time learning to drive the chariot. When it came time to film the key sequence of the chariot race, Heston told the director, "I think I can drive the chariot, but I don't think I can win the race." The director replied, "You just drive, and I'll see to it that you win."  Wouldn't it be great if we could be assured of victory in life? Wouldn't you like to know that, even though the circumstances don't always seem to be in our favor, the ultimate outcome would be positive?  I have good news for you. This principle does hold true. Those who place their trust in Jesus Christ, who seek to follow His guidance and direction for living, can be sure of ultimate victory through eternal life. Live life God's way. He assures the victory.

Keep the Son in your eyes,
Pastor Ben J Lahay 
Galatians 2:20

Blast from the Past

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April 22, 2013

"A Blast From the Past"

Scripture Reading:
Malachi 3:9-11 (HCSBO)  You are suffering under a curse, yet you—the whole nation—are still robbing Me. Bring the full tenth into the storehouse so that there may be food in My house.  Test Me in this way,” says the Lord of Hosts. “See if I will not open the floodgates of heaven and pour out a blessing for you without measure.  I will rebuke the devourer for you, so that it will not ruin the produce of your land and your vine in your field will not fail to produce fruit,” says the Lord of Hosts.

Devotional Reading:

In 2007, wildfires raged in the interior of Los Angeles County and Malibu, California.  As a record-breaking drought has permitted dry tinder to become fuel for the blazes. More than three-hundred thousand people have been evacuated from their homes, and more than 250 homes have actually been destroyed. An economic analyst commented that these wildfires have disrupted the economy to such an extent that, coupled with the recent spike in gasoline prices and slow down in the housing market, delivers a one-two punch to California that will likely result in depression.  This morning, I remembered God's promise that He would "rebuke the devourer" if we remember Him and honor His commands. Our society has done anything but that, and it could be argued that God has gradually been removing His umbrella of protection from our society. We have seen the devastating effects of forest fires, blackouts, the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) epidemic, Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (mad cow disease), the West Nile virus, the terrorist attacks (Boston Marathon), murder rates up; school attacks up (like Newtown) abortion, and  homosexuality. Our health care system is drained by virulent, antibiotic-resistant bacteria (like flesh-eating disease), and the HMO (Obama Care) which keeps getting bigger and richer as premiums and health care become unaffordable.

I wonder how long it will be before people wake up and realize that dishonoring God has a direct debilitating effect on society.   If you are a student of historical movements and awakenings, then you will enjoy this:  the lampstand (ministry of Jesus Christ) began in the East and moved West.  It moved to Europe, then to England with the onset of the industrial revolution.  The Lampstand then found it's way across the Atlantic to America, the last great revival led by Charles Finney in Rochester, NY.  From there the Lampstand found it's way to the mid-west and the west coast which it traveled then to Asia.  More people are coming to know the Lord in Asia than any other people group of any time.  Soon the Lampstand will return to Jerusalem, then things will begin.  I don't know about you, but I know for sure, I will be going home.  Giving up my passport, visa and all other things of this world, to reside in Heaven.  I give what little I have to God, and not just money, time, energy, focus and commitment.  Too many Christians take being a Christian like being a little pregnant.   It is up to those of us who honor God to stay the course and prevail in the midst of disaster.  We need real genuine devout  Christians in the world today, not the Vegas Christians (What happens in church stays in church).  Please keep in prayer the thousands who are affected by the Boston bombings.  The pieces need to be picked up and life needs to go on!

Keep the Son in your eyes,
Pastor Ben J Lahay 
Galatians 2:20

A Season, Right?

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April 19, 2013

"A Season is a Season, right?"

Scripture Reading:
Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 (HCSBO)  There is an occasion for everything, and a time for every activity under heaven; a time to give birth and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to uproot;

Devotional Reading:

As a pastor, I get the privilege of sharing life's journey with someone.  It is an exceptional blessing to share the journey when life begins or ends. There is, perhaps, no greater opportunity to appreciate life and all it offers us than when we can see it and share it through the eyes of someone who is seeing things for the first or last time. For a person to be able to do both within a short space of time is perhaps one of the most rare and special gifts we can be given.  I have been given the honor and privilege of sharing the last months, weeks, and days of life's journey with people. Back in New York, I was given perhaps one of God's greatest gifts, and felt as if I had been placed right in the circle of life. I had the honor of sharing a week with a terminally ill person, and then was blessed to be able to share in the time of a set of twins (and in Deep Creek a set of triplets) born pre-mature and together weighing about a pound and half.  It was amazing to see these small little babies God brought into the world.  They had all their parts except everything was really tiny.

Our journeys leaving and entering this life are very similar; they can be long and/or difficult; quick, or eased. We can leave or enter either in or out of pain, crying or peaceful.  Our births and deaths may be in sterile, crude, or special surroundings. We may or may not be accompanied by loved ones. We must trust that God is with us as we begin and end life's journey, no matter what the circumstances. And we must also trust that He places people in our presence whom He determines should be there.  It is not just life and death that has beginnings and ends.  Many things in our lives stop and start.  Some may be struggling with a new relationship in the early seasons of life.  It may be Spring and coming alive.  While others may be dealing with loss or grief from a relationship in the winter of life.  The energy is gone and the emotion is drained, but your season is not over, for Spring is right around the corner.  A certain situation may be new to you or you may be reaching the end of a milestone, like graduating from school.  A new season opens a door to a new ministry or opportunity; while another door is closed as the season of that life has faded into glory.  Through all of this brothers and sisters, I encourage you to stay focused on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.  He is the same yesterday, today and forever.  The most important thing to remember is He is today, in the season we call, NOW--the I AM.  Do you know Him?  Would you like to?  Send me an e-mail if you don't  I'll point you to the garden spade so together well Cultivate, Plant and Reap!!!!

Keep the Son in your eyes,
Pastor Ben J Lahay 
Galatians 2:20

praying for rain

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April 17, 2013

"Praying for Rain"

Scripture Reading:
James 5:7-8 (HCSBO)  Therefore, brothers, be patient until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth and is patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains.  You also must be patient. Strengthen your hearts, because the Lord's coming is near.

Devotional Reading:

We all have experienced hurts of mistreatment and misunderstanding.  Such hurts come in a variety of packages:  intolerable work situation; domestic conflicts; parents; children or relatives taking advantage of us; friends who turn against us; neighbors who entertain untrue opinions; and dozens of other painful circumstances.  Our natural tendency is to retaliate, to return evil for evil, to get back, or to hold a grudge and become bitter grumpy souls ourselves.  In the passage we have an alternative instead of getting even; do right when you've been wronged.

Patience is a word that stresses non-retaliation.  It means to hold one's spirit in check.  It also means to hold one's tongue or destructive action.  A real simple solution is to stop, drop and pray.  The farmer waits for the harvest as the Lord has planted the seed and waits for the fruit.  As you establish your hearts, you make a decisive act.  This act is not patience being passive, but rather patience being active.  Do you realize that strengthening and supporting your inner spirit will permit you to stand firm and immovable.  It is an inner sense of stability that allows you to withstand the waves of despair and overcome the winds of revenge.

 

If you have a desire to see positive Christ driven work in your life, get in the boat.  Do not go to the Lord with ultimatums and dilemma's whereby you tie the hands of God.  Surrender your Spirit to His and see where you fit into His plan.  Stop moaning, groaning, and complaining about how miserable you've got it; How everyone is out to get you; and no one understands.  It is a mighty deed to pray for rain... but an even mightier task to prepare for the rain.

Keep the Son in your eyes,
Pastor Ben J Lahay 
Galatians 2:20

Hugging in the Midst of Chaos

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April 16, 2013

"Hugging in the Midst of Chaos"

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 42:6 (HCSBO)  I am deeply depressed; therefore I remember You from the land of Jordan and the peaks of Hermon, from Mount Mizar

Devotional Reading:

A business executive became depressed. Things were not going well at work, and he was bringing his problems home with him every night. Every evening he would eat his dinner in silence, shutting out his wife and five-year-old daughter. Then he would go into the den and read the paper using the newspaper to wall his family out of his life.  After several nights of this, one evening his daughter took her little hand and pushed the newspaper down. She then jumped into her father's lap, wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him strongly. The father said abruptly, "Honey, you are hugging me to death!" "No, Daddy," the little girl said, "I'm hugging you to life!"  How much have you shut down and shut out of your life?  Your family has missed you all-day.  You may be tired, exhausted and over-worked, but you must be willing to love on your family.  You may have to miss a nap or forgo some sleep; too bad, suck it up!  Your spouse and family want to share life with you.  Take down your wall!  What wall, you say; the wall of business, the wall of avoidance, the wall of tired, the wall of being drained, the wall of frustration, the wall of anger, the wall of disappointment, the wall of crisis and the wall of poor me.  Get up, Grow up, and share your life with your family.  Don't let your daughter or son do all the work in hugging you back to life...do something original like live for them!

Keep the Son in your eyes,
Pastor Ben J Lahay 
Galatians 2:20

Fault Finding

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April 15, 2013

"Fault Finding"

Scripture Reading:
Hebrews 12:15 (HCSBO)  Make sure that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no root of bitterness springs up, causing trouble and by it, defiling many.

Devotional Reading:

No one refined the art of faultfinding better than the Nazis.  Wanting to justify their warmongering, they implemented a plan to stir up public, focused, negative sentiments toward the Jews.  Out of their hatred for Jews, the Nazis created a propaganda machine to play the blame game for them.  Media ploys such as this effectively distracted the German people and much of the world from Hitler's primary goal:  world domination.  The rejection of others can have far-reaching implications.  Throughout the world, racial prejudice is responsible for the annihilation of millions.  By any measure, racial prejudice is satanic.

The spirit of rejecting others fosters ungodly pride.  As a result, we begin to think of ourselves as being different--better than others.  This pride is expressed in a variety of ways.
    -  Others are to blame for my condition

    -  I would be successful if it weren't for them

    -  My life is ruined because of them.

    -  If others will join me in carrying this offense, I can be justified.

    -  I was run off, but I am better than they are.

    -  Things have changed; I don't know were I fit in...

    -  I won't give them the satisfaction 

 

Do you desire to be rid of these divisive demonic spirits?  Be honest before God and speak the prayers from your heart.  Remember, holding bitterness in your heart not only defiles your life but also negatively impacts those around you.  Are you better than a mere shepherd boy, David?  He had the ability to blaspheme and strike down the Lord's anointed, but he said, "who am I that I should raise my hand against those God's has appointed over me."  I challenge you to remember the words of David when dealing with a boss, an elected leader, a supervisor and your pastor.  Are you more righteous than David?  Get far away from those who blaspheme the Lord's anointed...!

Keep the Son in your eyes,
Pastor Ben J Lahay 
Galatians 2:20