euthanasia

Bill C-384, the bill to legalize euthanasia and assisted suicide in Canada has had 2nd reading delayed to 2 February 2010, with voting to take place on 3 February 2010.

For more info, see: EFC and ARPAC

Christian Horizons

EFC & CCCC will intervene in Heintz v Christian Horizons before the Ontario Divisional Court next week: Dec 15-17.

For more details check out: EFC

Dec 6 Sunday PM

The Renaissance Choir along with readings and reflections will be with us this Sunday @ 6:30pm
The evening includes a time of refeshements.

OCC is In

OCC is now meeting at 64 Colborne Street East, Orillia (the former Cinema4 building).
We had our first couple of services at our new location on Sunday.
We kept things simple... we were pleased with how glitch-free things went.

There is still lots to do to finish the lobby area, office and more classroom space... but it is coming along.

We are just so thankful to God for his provision, and for all the OCC family who have pitched in and done so much.

temporary meeting location

As you are aware, Sunday, September 27 was our last time at Orillia Christian School.

As you are also aware, we are not ready to move into our new location on Colborne St, at the old Cinema4 building.

During October, we will be meeting at 1035 Mississauga Street West. This is where Victory Faith Fellowship used to meet, prior to their moving to Barrie. It's in a strip plaza with the Orange Lodge, Quik Mart; Quik Bite Indian Cuisine; and the old meeting location of Victory Faith Fellowship.

We will continue to meet at 10am on Sunday's.

If you are able to help with moving our supplies / equipment from the School, meet at OCS this Wednesday at 6:30pm.


View Larger Map

OCC - Cinema4

This afternoon - Saturday, September 26 @ 2pm
Seats are being cleaned
They are being connected in sets of 3 & mounted on their base

Come on out and help get things ready for our big move

film suggestions

Orillia Community Church [I won't post our web address since we are completely redoing it] is moving from a rental location at Orillia Christina School to our new location at the currently under renovation Cinema4 building at 64 Colborne St.

One of the things we want to do in our new facility is to show some films [church in a movie theatre - makes sense to me]. There will be a number categories of films that we will show:

• we will have some family friendly nights
• we may show during Advent - films that focus on the birth of Jesus
• during Lent we may show films on the life & death of Jesus
  
• but we also want to show some films that will cause people to think. & it's this last category that I want your suggestions / ideas. What films would you suggest that have or raise spiritual issues? Some that are currently on the possibility list [in no particular order] are:
  

Lars and the Real Girl
The Matrix
The Seventh Seal
Babette's Feast
The Shawshank Redemption
The Straight Story
The Mission

If you have some suggestion, please add it in the comments, and add a sentence or 2 as to why you would choose that film... thanks

Nehemiah 2 - discussion questions

1. What is a cupbearer?
   What is the significance of Nehemiah holding this position?
   
   
2. List the requests that Nehemiah made to King Artaxerxes.
   Four months passed between the time Nehemiah heard the news (month of Kislev) and the time he looked sad before the King (month of Nisan).
   What does it appear Nehemiah did besides pray during that time?
   
   What happens when you pray and plan?
   
   Despite spending a lot of time in prayer and some time planning, Nehemiah credits who with his success?
   
   How do you bring glory to God in your accomplishments?
   
   
3. If you were Nehemiah, what would you ask of the King?
   for yourself?
   
   for your family?
   
   for OCC your church?
   
   
4. Why do you think Nehemiah stayed in Jerusalem for three nights before inspecting the walls and told his plans to no one?
   
   
5. In your own words, describe Nehemiah’s investigation of the Wall.
   Why do you think this was necessary?
   
   
6. The “walls” that surround us are our relationships and boundaries.
   What is the condition of your walls?
   
   Are they adequately protected or are they neglected?
   
   
7. Look at the pronouns Nehemiah uses in verses 17-18.
   What difference might the use of these pronouns make in the tasks we are completing?
   
   
8. Nehemiah encourages the people of Jerusalem with a personal example of God’s gracious hand upon him (Nehemiah 2:18).
   What examples from your spiritual heritage c could you encourage your family/group with right now?

Nehemiah 1 - outline

Nehemiah 1

Living in a time of Crisis (Nehemiah 1:1-3)

Prayer in a Time of Crisis

• Emotionally Honest (Nehemiah 1:4a)
• Persistently Prayerful (Nehemiah 1:4b)
• Thoroughly Truthful

About God (Nehemiah 1:5)

• He is Lord
• He is Awesome
• He is Loving

About God's Word (Nehemiah 1:6-9)

About Ourselves (Nehemiah 1:10, 11)

Nehemiah 1 – discussion questions

Questions for Nehemiah 1 – Prayer & Confession

1. What are some of the traits you like about Nehemiah.
   
   
2. Hanani reported the condition of the wall to Nehemiah.
   Review Ezra 4:7-23; 6:13-18 to see for yourself what the state of Jerusalem was in.
   
   
3. List the condition of our city and country that you are concerned about.
   
   
4. What did Nehemiah believe about the One he calls “the God of heaven” (Nehemiah 1:4)
   
   
5. How does your knowledge of and image of God affect your prayers?
   
   
6. Have you ever pleaded with God like Nehemiah?
   What has been the result?

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on-line bibles

If you want to read the text in multiple versions check out the following sites:
biblegateway.com
net.bible.org
blue letter bible
unbound bible
online parallel bible
greek bible not any help for Nehemiah
hebrew bible no english translation
scripture for all greek and hebrew interlinar download

Nehemiah

This Sunday, 5 July 2009, we are beginning a series from the book of Nehemiah

I will be posting here:

• an outline of the message
• some additional notes that didn't make it into the sermon
• discussion questions / notes

I would love to interact with you on this... either on this blog or in person

Matt Murrary

Matt Murray and the team from Tyndale leave for the Dominican Republic this Sunday - 10 May 2009. You can follow the team at Tyndale Dominican Republic Missions Team

MissionFest

MissionFest is at the International Centre in Mississauga this weekend.
Janice & I are planning on driving down for Saturday...
We have room in the van...
let me know if you are interested!

He's Alive

Don Francisco, "He's Alive", Don is a brilliant story teller through song and this song is a classic.

Easter :: 12 March [Sunday]

Very early in the morning, the disciples go to Jesus’ tomb to find it empty. The course of human history is changed forever. He is Risen! He is risen indeed!

Passages: Matthew 28:1-15; Mark 16:1-11; Luke 24:1-49; John 20:1-18

Suggestion: Get up early and read the passages listed above. Rejoice in Jesus and his resurrection from and power over death! Greet people throughout the day saying, "He is Risen!"

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Day 40 :: 11 March [Saturday]

Jesus’ body remains in the tomb during the Jewish day of Shabbat (Sabbath).

Passages: Matthew 27:32-66

Suggestion: As Jesus "rested" on the Sabbath, be reminded of the rest that Jesus calls us to. Spend some time resting today by taking a nap or relaxing. Consider reflecting on the Apostles' Creed.

I believe in God, the Father almighty,

creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, died, and was buried;

he descended to the dead.

On the third day he rose again;

he ascended into heaven,

he is seated at the right hand of the Father,

and he will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic Church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting.

Amen.

Improvising Upon "When I Survey The Wondrous Cross"

When I survey the wondrous cross, I am horrified. Tattered and torn skin…blood matted hair…pain induced quivers…the death of God. A man so battered and betrayed that words…fail.

Selah

When I survey the wondrous cross, its beauty startles me. The life…the love…the compassion…of the death of God. It…no, He summons me to feast upon that which I gaze. For some unresolved reason I accept the offer.

Selah

When I survey the wondrous cross, I am haunted.

For my soul knows…

my inmost being bows in contrition…

compunction convicts.

My hands, my thoughts, my eyes betray the reason for the death of God.

Selah

When I survey the wondrous cross, I am mystified. I search for it’s meaning, for its understanding…for the “why’s” of what I see. What was God doing on the cross? There are so many answers. The more doctrine digested, the more elusive and yet, simultaneously adjacent the death of God becomes.

Peter, why couldn’t you have kept it’s meaning to yourself? “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.” (I Pet. 2.21) Why must you involve us? Why must you summon me?

As if we want to…

as if I am willing…

to follow the example of Christ and His cross.

The cross is an example, an intricate design, on which we lay the transparent parchment of our lives and sketch our feeble outlines.

The cross is to be followed, like tracks in the snow. We step high and sink in deep to the openings made by The One who has gone before.

Excruciare…Latin for “out of the cross.” Excruciating People—those who live life out of the cross. Christians—those who have accepted the invitation to live an excruciating life. The cross is a way of life…an ethos. Mores not just morals. The cross is a culture for pain-absorbing, peace-making, love-wielding, price-paying, cup-drinking people.

When I survey the wondrous cross, I am terrified. For what I see and what I know demands my soul, my life, my all.

(An excerpt from the current writing project of the jazz theologian)

Good Friday prayer

Christine Sine posts this Good Friday prayer:

Christ Jesus you hung upon a cross and died for us

So that we might live for you

Your body was broken and your blood shed

So that we might be healed and made whole

You were faithful unto death

So that we might be faithful unto life

Your last command was that we might love one another

One family together from every tribe and nation

A new creation united through your sacrifice

Redeemed by your blood

Healed by your love

United by your covenant of peace

In your death may we find life

Day 39 :: 10 March [Good Friday]

Jesus is put on trial, flogged, forced to carry his cross, mocked by Roman soldiers and executed in the cruel Roman form of crucifixion on a hill called Golgotha ("the place of the skull").

Passages: Matthew 27:11-61; Mark 15:1-47; Luke 23:26-56; John 19:17-42

Suggestion: Find a cross, or an image of a cross. Spend several minutes looking at and reflecting upon the cross. Consider the significance and centrality of this symbol and what it means almost 2,000 years later. End by praying the Lord’s Prayer.

Good Friday

Churches in Orillia are gathering at First Baptist Church [265 Coldwater Road West, Orillia] for a Good Friday Service

Friday morning @ 10:00am

Day 38 :: 9 March [Thursday]

Today, Jesus and his disciples prepare for the Passover feast and eat the Last Supper together. Here Jesus washes their feet and tells them one will betray him. He and his disciples travel to the Garden of Gethsemane on the side of the Mount of Olives. It is here that Jesus prays and is arrested.

Passages: Matthew 26:17-68; Mark 14:12-52; Luke 22:7-53; John 13:1-18:11

Suggestion: From the perspective of one of the disciples, journal about what you might have felt when Jesus washed your feet and when he was arrested in the Garden.

Day 37 :: 8 March [Wednesday]

Nothing is recorded in Scripture as to what Jesus did on this day, but he certainly would have been thinking how all of human history would be changed in just a few short days.

Suggestion: Spend some significant time in prayer asking God to prepare your heart and allow you to truly grasp the depth and the significance of Easter this weekend.

Day 36 :: 7 March [Tuesday]

On this day, the disciples notice that the tree that Jesus spoke to yesterday had withered. Jesus returns to the temple and teaches. His authority is questioned by the religious leaders. He is also anointed in Bethany.

Passages: Matthew 21:18-23:39, 26:1-13; Mark 11:20-12:44, 14:1-9; Luke 20:1-21:38; John 12:1-11

Suggestion: Reflect upon the teachings of Jesus. Which of the readings sticks out to you the most? Why?

Day 35 :: 6 March [Monday]

Jesus enters the Temple and turns over all of the tables of the moneychangers. He also performs the only miracle of destruction, when he tells the fig tree that it would no longer produce figs.

Passages: Matthew 21:12-17; Mark 11-12-19; Luke 19:45-48

Suggestion: Spend some time alone and read the passages listed above out loud.
What might Jesus have been thinking as he knew what would happen to him in the week ahead?

Palm Sunday 2

As followers of Jesus we are called to live the resurrection, to have our eyes and ears focused on the Risen Christ. Jesus’ resurrection is the central event of the Christian faith. As you prepare for Easter, the celebration of Christ’s resurrection, this guide will help you navigate through the last week of the life of Jesus, leading up to the Cross and the Resurrection.

Today is the day of Jesus’ Triumphal Entry. He comes into Jerusalem riding a donkey while people cheer and lay palm branches and cloaks down along the path.

Passages: Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19

Suggestion: Sometime this week, watch Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ or one of the other films listed on the right, with your LIFEGroup, your friends/family or by yourself.

quote

Then what prevents you from seeing and hearing Him? Truly, there is so great a din in your heart, and so much loud shouting from your empty thoughts and fleshly desires that you can neither see nor hear Him. Therefore, silence this restless din, and break your love of sin and vanity. Bring into your heart a love of virtues and complete charity, and then you shall hear your Lord speak to you.

Walter Hilton, The Stairway of Perfection

Day 34 :: 4 April [Saturday]

Read:
Philippians 2:1-11

Reflect:

• According today’s reading, what is the heart of Jesus for you?
• What response is the Father looking for from us?
• How do the character traits of Jesus transfer over into your own life?

Spend some time praising God for what He has done by sending His Son, and ask Him to fill your heart with His character.

• How might you live out the life of Christ more this week?

Respond:
Father forgive me...

for neglecting so great a salvation,
for the words I’ve spoken in anger,
for the words I’ve left unspoken in fear.

Forgive me...

for not trusting you,
for my great indulgences in the world
for not seeking you with my whole heart

I give you thanks for the perfect sacrifice of Jesus.
For the covering I have in Him
Thank you for being a safe place, a refuge for my soul.
May I have the heart and mind of Jesus in all my relationships today.
In Jesus’ name, amen.

Palm Sunday

This sunday - 5 April - is Palm Sunday
It's a day we mark Jesus' entry into Jerusalem
It's a day that begins what is called Passion Week... those last few days of Journeying Toward the Cross.

Plan on being @ Orillia Christian School for an exciting morning as we celebrate.

Day 33 :: 3 April [Friday]

Read:
1 Corinthians 9:19-23

Reflect:

• How does Paul view himself in relation to others?
• How do you see yourself in relation to the people in your life?
• How can you become more “like the people around you” without compromising the gospel in your own life?
• What would this look like?
• As you do this, what are some of the benefits that might come to the people you know?
• What is Paul’s greatest desire, as described in this passage?
• What do you want to be different about the world or about the church or about someone’s life because YOU lived?

Respond:
God, you have loved me with an everlasting love and I am grateful. Give me that same kind of love for the people all around me: my friends, the people I work with, my family, and yes, Lord, even those who I find it difficult to get along with. I confess to you that I think more about myself than about other people and thank you for forgiveness.

Day 32 :: 2 April [Thursday]

Read:
Acts 7

Reflect:

• Have you wanted to be part of a team carrying out a very important mission?

Those who follow Jesus are part of a team that will never be disbanded, with a mission of greatest importance!

• Do you see yourself as part of such a group?

God has called you out of the world, and has designed you in a unique way.
The book of Acts

• has to do with the mission of God's church
• it has to do with calling
• it has to do with living out the Life of Jesus here on earth.

No matter what specific role you have in God’s kingdom, know that you are directly connected to the King.
Read through Acts 7 and ask God to help you see yourself as part of a larger family with a great mission. Ask Him to help you see your role more clearly.
What part would you just love to live out in His kingdom?

Respond:
Captain of the one true army, I want to be on mission with you. I want to be a part of the generation that you raise up to advance your Kingdom into the darkness. Give me clarity to the part you’d have me carry out, and give me courage to follow you with everything that’s in me. For the glory of Jesus, amen.

Day 31 :: 1 April [Wednesday]

4 'whatever' challenges

1 :: Today :: whatever is on your heart to say to God, say it.
Break down the wall that keeps you from being honest with Him... come on, really... you're not fooling Him so try having an honest conversation full of all your fears, frustrations, hopes, dreams, and so on.


2 :: Today :: whatever God would have you share with others, share it.
Break down the wall that prevents your life from bring literal Light into literal Darkness... because that is what is really going on.


3 :: Today :: whatever your usual Christianity looks like, change it.
Break down the wall that says it all takes place "this way" and on "this part of the day/week/month/year."


4 :: Today :: whatever prayer you need to pray for your tomorrow to become wildly more engaging than whatever autopilot you're banking on, pray it.
Break down the wall that demands someone else is supposed to spur on your faith... your relationship with God... your part in the grand mission for your life.

Count all the "your" words in that sentence... notice a trend?

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17

In our darkness, there is no darkness...

J.S. Bach’s ‘St Matthew Passion’ is one of the powerful, pieces of music that rings so true at this time of year. Bach, recounts the last hours of Jesus life on earth, the meaning of his sacrificial death, and our human response.

In tears of grief, dear Lord, we leave Thee.
Hearts cry to Thee, O Saviour dear.
Lie Thou softly, softly here.

Rest Thy worn and bruised body.
At the grave, O Jesus blest,
May the sinner, worn with weeping
Comfort find in Thy dear keeping,
And the weary soul find rest.
Sleep in peace, sleep Thou in the Father’s breast.

Words much more recent, from Taze come to mind as I think of Bach's musical phrases.

“In our darkness, there is no darkness, for you, oh Lord, the darkest night is clear as the day.” (Taize)

Day 30 :: 31 March [Tuesday]

Read:
Matthew 5:14-16

Reflect:
When Thomas Edison invented the light bulb, do you think he meant for it to stay in a box? Or do you think he meant for the light bulb to generate light?
In the same way, when God shines His light into His people, He also means for us to generate light.

• What does it mean that Christians are the light of the world?
  
• How does the image of putting a light on a stand have to do with generating light?
  
• What are some of the ways you could “let your light shine” before the people you come in contact with today?
  
• What does this passage say the results are?
  
• Look as well at Proverbs 13:9.

Respond:
Shine upon us, O God of lights. Show us the way. Reveal to us Your glory. Then may Your light shine through us as we go today. May my thoughts, my words, my whole life reflect the glory of Jesus. Amen.

Prayer for God’s light to be bright at OCC.
Pray for our Leadership Team: Mark Farrugua, Glenn Gillespie, David Gillett, Phil McLeod, Dan Sawatsky.
Pray for our BAD [Building, Auditorium, Design] teams: Alan Jarvis, Mike Luoma, Ray Scriver, David Gillett,
And pray for God to raise up more leaders as He expands our territory.

Day 29 :: March 30 [Monday]

Read
Matthew 28:16-20
Matthew 10

Reflect
We can talk theology and devotions all day long, but there comes a time when we are called to act.
Read Matthew 28:16-20

• What are we called to do as Christians?

Read Matthew 10

• What are some of the things that disciples do?
• Who are people either rejecting or receiving?

Respond
Oh Lord, how I long to hear your voice and learn what it is to be loved — to thrive, transformed by Your Spirit in a world that seeks to take away Your life in me. I confess that sometimes I drift away from You. I want to walk more closely with You than ever before. Today Lord, I answer You with my whole life... take me and transform me. May I come to know You so personally and powerfully that I can’t help but tell others about who You are. Father God, help me to recognize that the only holy thing in us is Your Holy Spirit... and that if we are to answer Your call, we must relinquish our lives to Your lead.
Fill our whole community with Your presence today, O, Lord! Amen.

Francis of Assisi

Francis of Assisi wrote this prayer in the 13th Century:

Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace;
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.
Amen.

Day 28 :: March 28 [Saturday]

Read:
Psalm 62:5-8

Reflect:
How is the journey going?
By this point in the journey you may feel discouraged... why hasn’t God spoken more?
Why can’t I read the Word and pray every day?
You may be realizing that the kind of growth God has in mind doesn’t come easy.
The good news is that it’s not our faithfulness that makes us grow, but God.
So don’t resolve to “do better” to “try harder.”
Instead, ask God to change you. Cling to the One who is perfect... Jesus Christ alone.
And keep walking.

Respond:
My soul, wait silently for God alone,
For my hope comes from Him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation;
He is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
In God is my salvation and my glory;
My rock of strength, my refuge is in God.
Trust in Him at all times, O people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is our refuge. (Psalm 62.5-8)

OCC & Cinema4

UPDATE:
The final details were not completed by 5:00pm when the provincial online registry shuts down. So, while everything seems to be completed, the official transfer will not happen until Monday morning.

As I write this, we are awaiting final word from the lawyer that the sale of the Cinema4 property has closed.

COLIN MCKIM has written an article at the Orillia Packet & Times. [The photo to the right is his as well.] Don't you just love windy days and longish hair.

Sunday Morning @ 10:00am: Popcorn! As we celebrate the goodness and greatness of our God. Come prepared to bless Him in worship.

Sunday Evening @ 6:30pm: We are having a potluck dinner at the Orillia Christian School. One of the things we will be doing is looking at some of the plans and some of the next steps as we prepare to move to Cinema4

I am listening to Elijah Streams radio as I write this and the Chris Tomlin song God of This City started to play. It brought tears to my eyes, as I recognize that our God has great plans for OCC and Orillia.

You're the God of this City
You're the King of these people
You're the Lord of this nation
You are

You're the Light in this darkness
You're the Hope to the hopeless
You're the Peace to the restless
You are

There is no one like our God
There is no one like our God

For greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this City
Greater thing have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this City

For greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this City
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done here

There is no one like our God
There is no one like our God

Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this City
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done here

Day 27 :: March 27 [Friday]

Read:
Joshua 1:1-9

Reflect:
As you read this passage, what invitation does the Lord give Joshua over and over?

• What are some of the promises God gave to Joshua?
• How does the Word of God relate to the presence of God?
• How do the concepts of listening and obeying go together?

Respond:
Lord, You are present in Your Word, therefore I will study and read and meditate in Your Word all the time. Lord, I give thanks for Your greatness, your goodness, and your love, and I now draw near to enjoy your presence. In Jesus name. Amen

Day 26 :: March 26 [Thursday]

Read:
Psalm 119:33-40

Reflect:
Psalm 119 is all about God’s Word.
As you meditate on verses 33-40, how is God’s word described?
How would you describe the heart of the Psalmist as he wrote this?
How would you describe your heart in relation to God’s Word?

Respond:
Use these words from Psalm 119.33-40 as part of your prayer:
Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes, and I shall observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may observe Your law and keep it with all my heart. Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, for I delight in it. Incline my heart to Your testimonies and not to dishonest gain. Turn away my eyes from looking at vanity, and revive me in Your ways. Establish Your word to Your servant, as that which produces reverence for You. Turn away my reproach which I dread, for Your ordinances are good. Behold, I long for Your precepts; revive me through Your righteousness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Day 25 :: March 25 [Wednesday]

Read:
Hebrews 1

Reflect:
God is the only being who exists eternally. There has never been a time when God did not exist. As you read and meditate today, think about what it would be like if God decided not to speak to us again — if He hadn’t sent Jesus.

• What would your life be like without God’s Word?
• Would it be any different?
• What would it look like to make God’s Word more central in your everyday life?

Respond:
Father, I want Your Word to be deeply implanted in me so that I not only know the truth, but also express it in the way I live. Move me toward your Word that I might not experience so much fear about my future. Help me cling to your perfect Word, for it brings life, and is flawless in every way. Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. I have inherited Your testimonies forever, for they are the joy of my heart. I have inclined my heart to perform your statutes forever, even to the end. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Day 24 :: March 24 [Tuesday]

Read:
Psalm 1

Reflect:
The Bible is God’s completely true Story about who He is, what He has done, what He is doing, and what He will do. It was given by God to human writers and so reflects their backgrounds, styles, and use of language. The Bible is the final authority on all matters of life.

• Do you believe these things?
• What does God’s Word mean to you?

As you meditate on Psalm 1, consider...

• What should you expect your life to be like if you make God’s instruction central to your walk?
• What are the results of a life apart from God’s Word?

Respond:
God, give me a love for Your Word. Help me understand it. Make it become a part of who I am and how I live. Transform me according to Your Word, for Your Word is perfect. Make it do everything in me that it was intended to do so that I might know You more personally and have a life that is connected to who You are. In Jesus name. Amen.

Day 23 :: March 23 [Monday]

Read:
Proverbs 1:1-7

Reflect:
In your own words, summarize the meaning of this passage.

• What is the main point of this portion of God’s Word?
• What is true of the wise man?
• What is true of the fool?
• How is the Lord leading you?

Respond:
God, I surrender to who You are and what You’ve said. I’m not afraid of You, for You are loving, but I am laid low in awe of Your majesty and power. Give me a healthy sense of fear that I might increase in wisdom and knowledge. Give me a heart that clings to Your Word and give me courage to follow where You lead all my days. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Day 22 :: March 21 [Saturday]

Read:
1 Thessalonians 2

Reflect:
Paul’s word of thanksgiving for the Thessalonians is followed by a review of his ministry in their midst and a defense of his care, concern, motives, and message (2.1-16).

First Thessalonians centers on the theme of the salvation and spiritual growth of the believers in Thessalonica. After hearing Timothy’s report about the steadfastness of the Thessalonians’ faith, Paul writes this letter to tell them how thankful he was for the reality of their growing faith and love in the face of persecution. He also responded to the false accusations of the Jewish opposition by reminding his readers of the selfless way he ministered to them and the truthfulness of the message he imparted to them.

Read and relect/meditate over 1 Thessalonians 2.8 [you may want to memorize it], asking God to give you a heart like Paul’s.

Respond:
Lord, may I love and serve others out of tenderness and affection as I encourage them to walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls us to His own kingdom and glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Day 21 :: March 20 [Friday]

Read:
James 5:16, Romans 12:15

Reflect:
Write out today’s verses on a piece of paper.
Picture a conversation where these things were happening.
So often we keep such a distance from each other, for fear of exposure, that no one sees the “real” us.

• Do you have relationships in which you are free to cry and rejoice, to confess struggles, desires?
  
• Do you allow others to get close to you?
  
• Who is one person with whom you could develop a more open and honest relationship?
  
• How does this help transform us?

Respond:
Jesus, thank You for showing me more about who You are in my relationships. Help me live without envy, lust, or hate. Move me toward a life of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5.22-23).

You may want to write out a prayer in your own words related to your life in the community of God’s people. [writing a prayer out, allows us to think a little more deeply about what and how we are praying.]

Day 20 :: March 19 [Thursday]

Read:
1 John 4:7-21

Reflect:
When it all boils down, one of the main things lost in the Garden of Eden is relationship. We have been separated from God and from each other. And just as we are broken in relationship, there is the possibility of being redeemed in relationship. The cross of Christ show us that redemption comes through relationship. Part of God’s remedy in fitting us back together comes through transformational relationship.

• What comes to mind when you think of a “good relationship”

1 John 4.7-21 provides a good picture for us. Spend some time meditating in this passage.

• What is the one element of relationship repeated over and over again in this passage?
  
• What is love?
  
• Where is the source of love?
  
• How does love transform?

Respond:
Lord, You have invited me to pray for the needs of others, and since You desire what is best for them, I take this opportunity to bring these requests to You. May I be of the same mind with others; instead of being haughty in mind or wise in my own estimation, let me associate with the humble. (Romans 12.16) If it is possible, as far as it depends on me, let me live at peace with all men. (Romans 12.18)

Take some time to lift up the needs of your family and friends, and other needs that the Lord brings to mind.

Day 19 :: March 18 [Wednesday]

Read:
Daniel 1

Reflect:
As you read today, consider Daniel’s relationship with God, his friends, and the king.

• What was on Daniel’s heart?
• What were some of the commitments he made?
• While many people think this text is about learning to be a vegetarian, can you see the deeper point this chapter is trying to make?
• What are some of the ways this world is drawing you away from God?
• Who are some friends that you might surround yourself with, like Daniel, who will encourage you in your faith?

Respond:
O Lord, may my relationships be pleasing in Your sight. May You bring me encouragement from my friends, and may You transform me to be a great friend for other people. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Day 18 :: March 17 [Tuesday]

Read:
John 15

Reflect:
John 15 gives us great hope that God did not send us out alone.

• How is Jesus described in this passage?
• How are radical disciples described?
• What are the results of staying connected to the vine?
• How might you stay more connected to the vine?
• How might your close relationship with Jesus actually become more central in your closest relationships?
  
• How might a deeper relationship with Jesus flavor your other relationships?
• List specific things you could do to be more connected to God.
• List specific ways you’d like to make an impact on those closest to you.

Respond:
O God, you intend for my life to make a huge impact on the people around me. I want to stay closer to Your heart today, that my words, my thoughts, my actions would flow from who You are. Keep me from wandering away from You. Help me hear Your quiet voice as I go today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Day 17 :: March 16 [Monday]

Read:
Acts 1: 12-15; Hebrews 10:24-25

Reflect:

• Who are the people closest to you?
• What are your relationships like?
• What do these passages teach you about God’s plan for relationships?

• Being with others who will wait on God with you and renew your strength often means having to rearrange your relationships.
• Read and ask God for some intimate allies.
  
  
• What could you do to simplify your life today?
  
• What are some things that get in the way of spending quality time with others?
  
• Remove one of those obstacles today, and make plans to meet with someone to talk about God’s Word together.
  
• Transforming relationships are those that create space for God to act and speak.

Respond:
Lord, you have made me to live in relationship with others. Give me strength to move toward others, away from isolation. May my relationships not be shallow; may they not be trivial. Give me meaningful words and a listening heart. I belong to God’s people and am no longer alone. Thank you, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

God of many names

God of many names, my name is known to you.
I am held in the hand of your life, and I do not know what you will make of me.
All I know is that I cannot make myself any more than I could in my mother's womb.
But this I can do, this I choose.
To give myself into the hand of your continuing creativity;
my past, with its joys and triumphs, its failures and regrets;
my present, with its struggles and accomplishments, its hopes and setbacks;
my future, with its fears and freedom, its pain and promise.
To loose and to bind, to stretch and to shape, to become what I will,
trusting the hand that made the world
trusting the spirit that breathes life
trusting the love that will not let me go
trusting the promise of the Word made flesh.
Amen

a dedication by kathy galloway from the book: talking to the bones, spck, 1996
found at fresh worship

DAY 16 :: 14 March [Saturday]

READ:
Luke 6:37-42

REFLECT:

• Who do you end up feeling most judgmental about? Why?
• How can we be passionate about the truth of the Gospel and convinced of the rightness and health of life in the way of Jesus without coming across as a complete jerk?
• If you were wrong about something how would you want someone to approach you?

RESPOND:

• Pray that God would soften your heart towards others and most specifically – show you any “specks” in your own eye.

DAY 15 :: 13 March [Friday]

READ:
Matthew 23:23-24

REFLECT:

• Do you think doing certain religious things (like fasting or observing Lent) or even not sinning makes you a better person?
• What’s more important?

RESPOND:

• Pray that God’s Spirit would use this season of Lent to form you, humble you, convict you of your priorities, continue to transform you and convince you of your place in serving others.

DAY 14 :: 12 March [Thursday]

READ:
Matthew 18:5-9

REFLECT:

• In what way(s) does sin have a grip on you?
• What do you know you need to let go of, but have been unwilling up to now.
• How might your unwillingness to deal with that affect others?

RESPOND:

• Pray that God would search your heart and point out to you anything that needs to go, be let go of, be crucified in your life.

Films

I am beginning to collect a list of films on the passion.
The list will be displayed in the column to the right - currently, the lines are not breaking properly - I`ll try and get that fixed.
Films are listed as: title (year) director

At this point, it`s simply a list, with no comments about the film - that may come later.
So please add films you`ve seen or heard about, don`t worry if you don`t have all the details.

One of the things I`m thinking of, for next year when we are in Cinema4 is having a passion week film festival... it`s just in the preliminary idea stage right now.

DAY 13 :: 11 March [Wednesday]

READ:
John 15:9-17

REFLECT:

• What has been the story of your relationship with Jesus?
• How has He pursued you?
• How have you pursued Him?

RESPOND:

• Pray that God’s Spirit would help you know, feel and lean into the love of Jesus for you on a daily basis.

DAY 12 :: 10 March [Tuesday]

READ:
Luke 12:13-21

REFLECT:

• Why does Jesus talk so much about money?
• How is an over-emphasis on material things corrosive to our souls and our world?

RESPOND:

• Pray that God would show you where and how you are overly concerned about and tied to money, possessions and acquisition.

DAY 11 :: 9 March [Monday]

READ:
Matthew 6:19-34

REFLECT:

• In what ways have the things you own ended up owning you?
• Where could you simplify if you only had the will to do so?
• What are we really saying to God when we place such an importance on things? When we worry?

RESPOND:

• Pray that your worry would melt into trust, that your desire for things would be redirected into a desire for God and His kingdom.

DAY 10 :: 7 March [Saturday]

DAY 10

READ:
Acts 7:1-8; Ephesians 1

REFLECT:

• List the promises God made to Abraham [Acts 7], note how Stephen describes God as the God of promise.
• What promises are given in Ephesians 1?
• Do you believe these promises?

RESPOND:

• Pray the prayer that Paul prays in Ephesians 1:17-23.
• Pray this for yourself;
  for your family;
  and for OCC.

DAY 9 :: 6 March [Friday]

DAY 9

READ:
Psalm 8

REFLECT:

• As you read, think about God.
• Picture the images used in this Psalm.
• Talk to God about how great He is. Don’t ask for anything, simply look at Him.
• As you read, make a list of what is true about God. For more, read Psalm 19.

RESPOND:
Spend some time in prayer, simply worshipping the Creator.

save the daylight

brokenness and prayer

One of the marks of the lenten season - this journey toward Christ’s resurrection - is a recognition, a radical awareness of our brokenness, our need for God. Here is a prayer posted on the the refuge blog.

• pray it
• reflect on it.
• let the words sink in.
• let God speak to the deep places of our parched hearts.
• let Him sweep out what needs sweeping.

God, all-loving and all-caring,
We come before you with hesitant steps and uncertain motives
Our hearts are parched from wandering in a desert of sin.

We want to sweep out the corners where sin has accumulated
And uncover the places where we have strayed from your truth
Our hearts are parched from wandering in a desert of sin.

We ask for courage to open our eyes and unstop our ears
That we may be aware of all that distracts us from a whole-hearted commitment to Christ
Our hearts are parched from wandering in a desert of sin.

We want to see ourselves as you do and live our lives as you intended
Expose in us the empty and barren places where we have not allowed you to enter
Our hearts are parched from wandering in a desert of sin.

Reveal to us our half-hearted struggles,
Where we have been indifferent to the pain and suffering of others
Our hearts are parched from wandering in a desert of sin.

Create in us a clean heart, O God, and put a right Spirit within us
Nurture the faint stirrings of new life where your spirit has taken root and begun to grow
Our hearts are parched from wandering in a desert of sin.

We long for your healing light to transform us into the image of your Son,
For you alone can bring new life and make us whole
In your mercy, shine upon us, O God, and make our path clear before us.

Pause to remind yourself of your own brokenness and need for repentance.

God of mercy, come
Into the hidden places of our hearts.
Christ of compassion, come
Into the broken places of our world.

Spirit of life, come
Into the polluted places of our lives.
Forgive us, heal us, redeem us,
Lead us from death to eternal life.

DAY 8 :: 5 March [Thursday]

DAY 8

READ:
Matthew 16:24-28; Ephesians 5:18-21

REFLECT:

• After reading the above verses, simply sit still before God.
• Push away your agenda and just “be present”.

RESPOND:
Allow the Lord to remind you of His care for you.

DAY 7 :: 4 March [Wednesday]

DAY 7

READ:
John 14:15-31

REFLECT:

• How aware are you of the Holy Spirit’s work in your life?
• What are some of the thing that this passage shows you about the Spirit’s ministry?

RESPOND:
Invite the Holy Spirit to guide and comfort you.

DAY 6 :: 3 March [Tuesday]

DAY 6

READ:
Psalm 15

REFLECT:

• Psalm 15 contains several responses for radical followers of Jesus – identify them
• What is the result of such commitment?
• Read John 14:6 and allow God to stir devotion to Jesus alone.

RESPOND:
Use the following passage as your starting point in prayer and praise.

Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you. Nehemiah 9:5b-6

DAY 5 :: 2 March [Monday]

DAY 5
READ:
John 1:1-12; 3:16-21

REFLECT:

• Reflect on how some people are drawn to Jesus and others turn away from Him.
• What does it mean to “receive the light”?
• Read and reflect on John 12:46

RESPOND:
Spend some time praying these passages.

The Valley of Vision

The Valley of Vision [from The Valley of Vision]

Lord, High and Holy, Meek and Lowly,

Thou hast brought me to the valley of vision,
where I live in the depths but see thee in the heights;
hemmed in by mountains of sin I behold thy glory.

Let me learn by paradox
that the way down is the way up,
that to be low is to be high,
that the broken heart is the healed heart,
that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit,
that the repenting soul is the victorious soul,
that to have nothing is to possess all,
that to bear the cross is to wear the crown,
that to give is to receive,
that the valley is the place of vision.

Lord, in the daytime stars can be seen from deepest wells,
and the deeper the wells the brighter thy stars shine;

Let me find thy light in my darkness,
thy life in my death,
thy joy in my sorrow,
thy grace in my sin,
thy riches in my poverty,
thy glory in my valley.

What are some practical things I can do to make Lent meaningful?

One of the best things you can do is be sensitive to the spirit of Lent through intentionally emphasizing positions, actions, moods and disciplines as you go about your normal worship, reading, devotions and prayer times.

Worship Positions: Try reading the Bible, praying, worshipping in a different position - i.e. kneeling, prostrate, bowed head.
Actions: Take some extra time in confession, reflection, prayer, fasting, lament, self examination (spiritual life, family, business, relationships, areas of service, finances, mission) - take the needed time to allow the Spirit to minister.
Moods: Lent has a quietness, reflectiveness, simplicity, self-examination, in-ward focus - again be still and reflective so that the Spirit can equip and shape and transform you.

The Season of Lent

While we have begun the season of Lent, maybe you are not sure what this is. Here is a little primer on Lent.

The season of Lent is a season of worship for both personal and corporate spiritual renewal in preparation for celebration of the central event in Christianity, the death and resurrection of Christ. It is a time for particular reflection on and study of God’s word, for meditation, for prayer, and for self-examination.

Lent, traditionally begins quietly with ashes [Ash Wedneday] and builds in intensity as the observance of Christ’s death and resurrection grow closer. Ultimately, the purpose of Lent is a pilgrimage [this is why we are calling this set of readings/reflections: Journey to the Cross] to see the Gospel in motion in a convicting and empowering way.

DAY 4 :: 28 February [Saturday]

DAY 4

READ:
Genesis 22

REFLECT:
Reflect on Abraham’s learning to hear and trust God’s voice

• How great is your willingness to risk when you know God is leading?
• Is there an area where God is asking you to step out in faith?
• What might that look like?

RESPOND:
Invite the Lord to teach you trust and learning to let go of things that compete with allegiance to Him.

DAY 3 :: 27 February [Friday]

DAY 3

READ:
Psalm 96; John 18:36

REFLECT:
From John 18

• What does it mean that you have been made for another place?

From Psalm 96:

• What is true of our God?
• What is He like?
• What are some obstacles that keep you from the unbridled worship of God

RESPOND:
Ask the Spirit to search your heart and reveal any blockage points.
Acknowledge them to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness.
Then worship God for who He is.

DAY 2 :: 26 February [Thursday]

DAY 2

READ:
John 10:1-10

REFLECT:
God is always more at work than we think...

• Where do you sense He is at work in your life right now?
• Where do you see God at work around you?

RESPOND:
Pray the words of Psalm 25:4-5

Show me your ways, O LORD,
teach me your paths;
guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.

DAY 1 :: 25 February [Wednesday]

DAY 1

READ:
John 10:1-3

REFLECT:

• What does it mean to you personally, that God call you by name?
• What is God’s heart for you?
• How does knowing God’s heart for you affect your life?
• Is your experience of God an adventure or a set of obligations?
  
• It is life and freedom or just making it through the day?

RESPOND:
As you journey to the Cross with Jesus over these next 40 days, invite God to draw you closer to Him; open your eyes to see Him and what He is doing; and to pour life of Jesus into you.

JOURNEY TO THE CROSS & THE SEASON OF LENT

The season of Lent is traditionally a period of meditation, prayer and spiritual reflection and renewal among Christians. It begins on Ash Wednesday [25 February this year], following what is called Shrove Tuesday – or in many, including our house – Pancake Tuesday. It continues for 40 days [not counting Sundays] until the Saturday before Easter.

Lent comes from an old English word meaning “spring” with Germanic root meaning “lengthen.” It is a season of preparation, of awakening. It’s a time of preparation to celebrate with great joy the resurrection.

Some people give up something for lent. We'll talk a little about that in a couple of days. But if you feel the need to give up chocolate, please feel free to send it to me!

40 Days

Lent lasts for 40 days [not counting Sundays]. The number 40, in the Bible, often signifies initiation, preparation and purification. For example, there is...

• Noah in Genesis 7:4-17;
  
• the Israelites in Exodus 16;
  
• Moses in Exodus 24:15-18, Deuteronomy 2:7;
  
• the spies in Numbers 13:21-15;
  
• the induction of the kingdom in 1 Samuel 2:11;
  
• the preparation of Ninevah in Jonah 3:4-5;
  
• Jesus in the wilderness in Mark 1:9-13;
  
• Jesus between the Resurrection and the Ascension in Acts 1:3.

welcome

Welcome to occweb.blogspot.com.
Over the next few weeks, I will be posting some lent devotions / reflections / quotations / questions / observations / and other assorted notes.
I invite you to join with me on this Journey to the Cross
as we focus on the meaning of the Cross for our lives today.