“CELEBRATING THE FOURTH OF JULY”
Ever since Cathy and I came to GMPC, folks have been telling us about how Coronado celebrates the Fourth of July. As the holiday approaches, we can sense the excitement building in the community. Decorations are going up, people are planning when they will put out their chairs on Orange Ave, and folks are buying everything in the Thrift Cottage that is red, white, and blue. Knowing how we will celebrate is important, so is knowing why we will celebrate.
In the book of Romans, the Apostle Paul writes that the institution of government was created by God:
“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”
Romans 13:1
Our government is a blessing to us from God. This is why we celebrate the birth of our nation.
Through the centuries, Christians have been called to participate in government and help it to be what God intended. In our country, Christians have done this by voting, be serving as elected officials, by serving as civilian employees, and by serving as uniformed members of the government.
On Sunday, July 2, we will spend time celebrating God's blessing to us. One of the ways we can do this is to invite those who wish to wear their uniforms. I will be wearing my Navy uniform in gratitude for how God has enabled me to serve Him in the government He created. Please feel free to wear your uniforms this Sunday as we pray for our nation during our worship of the King of kings and Lord of lords.
In Christ,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
“The Hope That Is Within Us”
In 1 Peter 3:15 we read:
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”
This past weekend I had the opportunity to help others to discover the hope that comes from our Lord Jesus Christ. I helped to lead a US Navy Returning Warrior Workshop (RWW) for 130 service members and their guests. I facilitated a group of three service members and their spouses during the weekend as they discussed the material that was presented by various speakers. I also led two breakout sessions for 25 couples titled “Helping Couples Reconnect”. In addition, I helped in leading the Sunday morning worship service.
Finally, I gave the closing presentation titled, “Transformational Growth”. During this presentation, I spoke about how God has been involved in helping me to heal and grow from my experiences with three deployments to combat zones. I shared with them that even in those darkest of times, the Lord was with me, giving me hope, helping me to go on.
At the end of the RWW, one of the couples told us, “Before we came here, we had completed our divorce papers and we left them on the table at home to sign when we returned. We have just decided not to file for divorce.”
People all around us are struggling and looking for hope. I encourage all of us to make the most of our opportunities to share the hope that is within us through Jesus Christ our Lord.
In Christ,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
“Those Who Can’t Do, Pray”
From time to time, someone will tell me, “there isn’t anything I can do about this, I’ll just have to pray.” It is as though they’re apologizing for not being able to do anything constructive. However, one of the most constructive things we can do is pray.
In James 5:13-16, we read:
“Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
Your prayers are powerful and effective. Your prayers make a difference in the lives of others and in the world. Whenever you pray, God Almighty, the Creator of the universe, is listening. And, God will answer each one of your prayers.
Sometimes God answers, “Yes”. Sometimes God answers, “No”. And sometimes God answers, “Wait”. God will always answer our prayers with the perfect answers that are keeping with His will.
So, keep praying. The world is counting on you.
In Christ,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
“Amazing Things Are Going to Happen”
During the next few weeks, we will be spending time in the Book of Acts during the worship services. Last Sunday, we spent time in Acts chapter 2 and we saw what life looked like for the first followers of Jesus after God poured out the Holy Spirit on them.
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:42-47.
Since that first Pentecost over 2000 years ago, God has blessed each of His followers with the Holy Spirit. And so, we can expect our church to look like the church of the First Century. Churches like this draw people to Jesus. When people let the Holy Spirit fill them, the Holy Spirit will fill their churches with people who are longing to know Jesus and make Him known.
Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you anew with His presence each new day. Amazing things will happen for the Glory of God.
In Christ,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
Memorial Day
The Scriptures tell us in Hebrews 13:7:
Remember your leaders who taught you the Word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives and follow the example of their faith.
On Memorial Day we're invited to remember those who have died in the service of their country. This Memorial Day I have been remembering Explosive Ordinance Disposal Petty Officer First Class (EOD1) Kevin Bewley, who died on November 5, 2007, in Iraq. EOD1 Bewley was part of a team that was sent to clear Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) that had been planted along the roads. They were operating out of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Summerall in Bayji, Iraq. On that day, I was visiting with members of his unit at Camp Slayer in Baghdad, Iraq.
I was sent to help EOD1 Bewley's team deal with the trauma of the attack. In order to get to FOB Summerall, I was flown to Combat Operating Base (COB) Speicher. Then I traveled in a convoy of EOD vehicles on South Hershey Highway, the most dangerous highway in Iraq, as they were looking for more IEDs.
During our trip, the EOD sailors were playing "Highway To Hell" by AC/DC in our vehicle . One of them in the back of the vehicle said to me, "Hey, Chaplain. Bewley was always talking to me about that Jesus Christ Lord and Savior stuff. What's that all about?" So, I explained to him what it means to know Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. We prayed together and he asked Jesus to come and live in his heart. Then the driver of the vehicle said, "When we get back to base, I'm going to disciple you. I go to a Calvary Chapel back home, and I'll help you to grow in your faith." By the grace of God, all of this happened in spite of the music we were listening to.
EOD1 Bewley was a faithful leader who taught the Word of God to his shipmates. Because of his example of faith in a combat zone, another sailor was able to experience the salvation and love of God. I'm looking forward to spending eternity with both of them in Heaven.
In Christ,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
Proof and Evidence
Greetings on this Wednesday:
Often, there is a confusion between proof and evidence. When people ask for "proof," they usually have scientific proof in mind, similar to what we learned in the fifth grade—the Scientific Method. However, it is actually impossible to scientifically prove any historical event. We cannot scientifically prove that anyone attended worship on a specific Sunday, just as we cannot scientifically prove that George Washington was the first president of the United States. What we can do is gather an overwhelming amount of evidence that convinces us of the truth. We can look at the letters President George Washington wrote. For those who attended worship in-person, you are reliable eyewitnesses we can trust. The more evidence, the stronger the case!
In the book of Acts, Luke's goal is to demonstrate to Theophilus what Jesus continued to do and teach through the Holy Spirit after the resurrection. To show this, Luke begins by presenting the evidence of Jesus' resurrection. We learn that Jesus appeared to his disciples, providing them with convincing proof. He taught them about the kingdom of God and shared a meal with them. These pieces of evidence point to the reality of Jesus' resurrection.
All of us have been given a gift from the Holy Spirit to use in the ministry to which God has called us. If we're honest with ourselves, there are times when we have neglected to use these gifts. There are times when we need to fan into flame the gift that the Holy Spirit has given us.
What evidence do we have today, over 2000 years later? Is it still possible for anyone to believe in the resurrection? I firmly believe the answer is "Absolutely! Yes!" You and I are evidence. As the body of Christ, there is no stronger evidence of forgiveness, mercy, grace, love, service, and sacrifice than when we look at ourselves in the mirror. We know God’s forgiveness. We’ve experienced God’s love! Our lives, dedicated to faithfully being Christ, are the most compelling evidence we can offer to the world.
It is not a secret that the world is a mess—everyone recognizes it. However, the solution does not lie with more politicians, better education, or stricter gun control. The root of the problem is our own hearts! Our hearts desire things we shouldn't, we long for things that are detrimental, and we allow ourselves to be swayed by unworthy influences. The promise of the Gospel is that God removes our hearts of stone and replaces them with new hearts of flesh. With our new hearts, we are called to embody God's love, mercy, grace, sacrifice, and service. We are called to reveal Christ within us to the world. And I can't think of better evidence than you!
The Lord may not be calling you to travel to the ends of the earth, but I am certain that God is calling you to live out your faith in your family, your neighborhood, your workplace, and/or your school. Wherever you find yourself, be Christ to those around you. That is what it means to live in the kingdom of God here and now. It all begins "from here (the heart) on out!"
Blessings,
Pastor John
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
Fan Into Flame
Last Sunday I preached about the Apostle Paul's second letter to a young pastor named Timothy. In this letter Paul wrote:
For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:6-7).
When Timothy was ordained as a pastor, the Holy Spirit gave him a spiritual gift to use in his ministry. The Holy spirit also enabled him to use this gift with power, love, and self-discipline. However, Timothy had neglected to use his spiritual gift. And so, Paul calls him to "fan into flame" the gift he had been given. Just like someone would fan into flame a fire that has become smoking embers.
All of us have been given a gift from the Holy Spirit to use in the ministry to which God has called us. If we're honest with ourselves, there are times when we have neglected to use these gifts. There are times when we need to fan into flame the gift that the Holy Spirit has given us.
Fanning into flame involves confessing to God that we have been neglecting to use the spiritual gift we have been given. Then we need to ask the Holy Spirit to fill us anew with His power, love, and self-discipline. After this, ask the Holy Spirit to give you the opportunity to use your gift.
When Timothy did this, he was able to join Paul on his missionary journeys. Later in life, he became the pastor of the church in Ephesus and eventually a bishop. At the end of his life, he was martyred for preaching about the Resurrection of Jesus.
Let us fan into flame the gift of God we have been given. Just imagine what God will do through us when we are on fire for Him.
In Christ,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
Holy, Holy, Holy
Last Sunday, one of the Scripture passages was from Isaiah 6 where the Prophet Isaiah is given a glimpse into heaven. There, Isaiah sees how the angels are worshiping God, saying:
“Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord Almighty;
the whole earth is full of His glory.” (Isaiah 6:3)
Seven hundred years later, the Apostle John is enabled to look into heaven, and he also sees the angels worshiping God saying:
"Holy, Holy, Holy
is the Lord God Almighty,
who was, and is, and is to come." (Revelation 4:8)
One day, we will join with the angels in heaven and praise God together. God has already provided us with the words we will use in this eternal worship service. I don't know what the tune to the song will be. It could be something Classical, or Rock and Roll, or even Country Western. Well, maybe not Country Western.
I wouldn't be surprised if the music is unlike anything we have ever heard before. Something heavenly, perhaps?
The important thing is that God is preparing us to worship Him in heaven. God hasn't just given us the words to the songs we'll use. God has given us the opportunity to worship Him on earth so that our souls will be ready to sing His praises in forever heaven.
In Christ,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
The Bible Is Alive
Good Wednesday Afternoon,
In Second Timothy 3:16-17, the Apostle Paul writes:
“All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work.”
In the original Greek translation of this passage, the word inspired literally means God breathed. The idea is that the Holy Spirit breathes the Word of God into the writer of Scripture and the writer exhales the Word of God onto the page. Then, when we read the Word of God the Holy Spirit breathes the Word into us.
This is why we read in Hebrews 4:12:
“For the Word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, even penetrating as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”
The Bible is unlike any other book ever written. The Bible is alive. When we read it, we have an active encounter with the living God who is transforming us into people who are like Jesus. This is the reason we avoid reading the Bible. This is also the reason we are inspired after having read the Bible.
May we enjoy the experience of the Holy Spirit breathing the Word of God into us as God is transforming our lives.
In Christ,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
What’s Your Family Plan?
Good Wednesday Afternoon,
Have you found yourself P.L.A.Y.ing this week? Last Sunday, we had the joy of worshiping with our former San Diego Interim Presbytery Executive, Pastor John Moser. He was ordained to pastoral ministry over 40 years ago and has served the Church faithfully. He is now retired and enjoying life as a grandparent.
In his message, we were challenged to see our family relationships in light of our relationship with God, our Heavenly Father. Dads and Moms have been planted in our families to have contact with our children, which is life giving—not crushing. The contact we share with our heavenly Father is filled with grace and mercy—so too our relationships in our families need to reflect God's goodness and love.
Many have asked the question, "Where is the instruction book for parents?" The answer is easy: our guide book is God's Word. It teaches us about ourselves, Jesus, and the world we live in. Therefore, guided by God's Word, supported by our family of faith through prayer and encouragement, we draw closer to who God has created us to be.
In order to help us be better fathers, mothers, daughters, and sons, Pastor John Moser gave us a playful acrostic: "P.L.A.Y." P stands for Plan. Write out your parenting plan that is proactive and not reactive. Include in your written plan to pray regularly for your family. L stands for Listen. Parents listen to your children. Children listen to your moms and dads. Learn from each other. Let there be love in your conversations as you are learning and exploring who the Lord created each person in the family to be. A stands for Allowance. At first, I thought (as a parent) we needed to increase our monetary allowance to our children. But, allowance had a much deeper meeting: "to allow for mistakes." Is your family practicing grace? Is the response to flashes of anger met with grace and forgiveness? Do we gently guide and encourage our children. Lastly, Y stands for Yahoo! Create space to play and laugh together. The idiom "Laughter is the best medicine" is real and true. When families play together they are reminded of the joy and pleasure God desires for each one of us.
We announced a new opportunity called Tables of Eight on Sunday. Tables of Eight is an opportunity for families, couples, and singles to share a meal with up to 7 other members of the congregation at least 4 times over the next 4 months. The emphasis of these gatherings is on fellowship, which means there is not necessarily an accompanying bible study, nor is there an expectation of culinary perfection. Our goal is simply to get to know each other across age, stage, in or out of town, 9:00am or 10:30am service, and invite the Holy Spirit to be present among us as we break bread. Tables of Eight is a wonderful way to incorporate P.L.A.Y.ing together. I hope you will seriously consider signing up.
Lastly, it's been nearly three years since we've last "passed the plate" for offering due to COVID restrictions. I've been encouraged by the faithfulness of the Graham family to God first and foremost. Through your generosity, the ministries continue to be supported and moving forward. Over the past several months, the Session at Graham has prayerfully considered providing an opportunity, as an act of worship, to designate time and space to offer God's tithes and our offering in worship again. Through discerning the Holy Spirit's guidance, on Sunday, March 5, we will again begin collecting God’s tithes and our offering in both services.
Blessings,
Pastor John
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
All In
Good Wednesday to you,
When the stakes are high—being all in can be a scary thing. On Sunday morning, several people raised their hands saying "Yes, I'm a fan of James Bond and the 007 movies." I too am a big fan, not just because he's the hero, but because he is always all in. Sometimes, Bond appears as though he has not calculated the cost, but it never seems to stop him from saving the world and stopping the evil villain. We can't fault his tenacity and drive to the point of risking his own life.
As we continue our journey through the last three chapters in Ephesians, we come to a point in Paul's writing that does not always sit well in our cultural climate. Paul spent the first three chapters laying out what it means to be "In Christ" (identity) and in the last three what it means to "be the Church."
Paul's instruction was quite simple: be wise, understand the Lord's will, and be filled with the Spirit. Easier said than done, right?! What does all that look like in practice? Well, he tells us that too—through mutual submission to one another out of our reference for Christ. Paul is harkening back to "Be imitators of God…just as Christ loved us and give himself up for us…" (Ephesians 5:1-2). He's pointing us back to Christ as our example for how to live. And, Christ was all in for the Church—the bride.
Continuing on in the text, Paul addresses husbands and wives. In the first century, women did not have any rights and were treated as property. I read an account of a divorce that recorded the wife did not cook in a manner that pleased the husband. I would like to say we have come a long way in our relationships—especially marriages. But too many of us are familiar with divorce. We have, however, come a long way in elevating women from being property to being created in the Image of God. In a day and age when women were devaluated, Paul is pointing the Church in a different direction. He was pointing the Church to the idealized relationship between a husband and a wife. One characterized by sacrifice and respect. Who wouldn't want that in their marriage?
Paul ultimately paints a picture of marriage as a reflection of the Church's relationship to Christ. Christ is the Head of the Church and presents her (us—the Church) "without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless" (Ephesians 5:27). Christ was all in for the radiant Church whom he deeply loves. So much that he gave himself up for her! The picture Paul paints is beautiful, and it is one that we are called to live out daily as we shine the light of Christ in a dark world. I can't think of a better example to live by than Jesus Christ.
I pray those around you see Christ in you today and are drawn to him!
Blessings,
Pastor John
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
Light Always Wins
Good Wednesday to you,
Do we dare let the light of Christ shine upon us? That may not be as easy of a question to answer. Because, when the light shines in the darkness, the darkness fades. Literally—it disappears. What is left? Everything is exposed and out in the open. Our gut response is "Of course, we want the light of Christ to shine upon us." However, the practice and application is often intimidating and daunting. Some of us have been asleep for a long time and forgotten the freedom we find in the Light. Allowing the light of Christ to shine upon us provides clarity for the things that need Christ's attention. It might surprise us, but it never surprises Jesus. So, do we dare let the light of Christ shine upon us?
The Apostle Paul writes, "Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead and Christ will shine on you." It's time to wake up. Obviously, the world is "asleep," in spiritual darkness and spiritually dead. It is God who calls the person from their sleep—for only God can give life to the dead. However, there are some in the Church who have been asleep and need to be awakened. It is time to rise and allow Christ to shine upon you—that you might know and experience the freedom of Christ's light. In so doing, we live as children of light—living into the Kingdom here and now.
Children of light speak words that bring forth life and not obscenity, foolish talk, or course joking, which are out of place. Allowing the light of Christ transforms our words to bring forth thanksgiving (words). Living in the light of Christ frees us to live free of sexual immortality, impurity, or greed. Allowing the light of Christ transforms our bodies to live as a holy people set apart for God's purpose (bodies). As the light of Christ shines upon us, we put aside greed and idolatry, moving towards investing in kingdom building (wallet).
The world is a very dark place and it seems to be getting darker and darker each year. I'm grateful for our brother in Christ, the Reverend Dr. Nate Landis, for proclaiming the Word last Sunday. The challenge to "wake up" and shine the light of Christ in a dark world is as important now as it has ever been. As we allow the light of Christ to shine on us, we see the areas in our own lives that need transformation. Only Christ can bring about transformation that brings healing and restoration. As we allow the light of Christ to shine on us, we also reflect the light, like the moon reflects the light of the sun.
It is easy to lose hope in this world. But, take heart, when the lights are on, life gathers as it draws people in—much like a camp fire draws people around for warmth and visibility. The world needs the Church to shine brightly, like stars in the night sky.
I pray and hope your light is shining today!
Blessings,
Pastor John
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
Aroma
Good Wednesday to You,
Congratulations to our new class of Ruling Elders: Russ Allen, Monica Pipenkotter, Doug Reavie, and Dan Swanson; and our new class of Deacons: Marty Almquist, Michael Dykstra, Anne Grignon, Matthew Heidt, and Jane Reavie. Thank you for responding to the call to lead and serve Graham Memorial Presbyterian Church through this season. "For such a time as this" you were called by God and elected by the congregation. We look forward to supporting you as you "serve the people with energy, intelligence, imagination, and love!"
In our passage on Sunday, I was struck by Paul's instruction to the church in Ephesus (and also us) to "imitate God." The question of possibility rings genuine. Is it even possible to imitate God? If so, how? We cannot imitate God's omnipotence (all-powerful), nor can we imitate God's omniscience (all-knowing), and we certainly cannot imitate God's omnipresence (all-present). These are attributes of God that we as finite beings cannot imitate. So, how then can we "imitate God"?
Very simply we can imitate God's character; God's truth, God's forgiveness, and God's love. The world is a mess and the very reason we get angry when injustice occurs is because of our "imitating God's Truth." The truth of the matter is everyone is created in the Image of God and has value and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. When someone acts unjustly, we get angry—rightfully so! Paul writes about anger in our passage too. We are told not to sin in our anger—which is a whole other side. Too often our anger is not about injustice that occurs on someone else's behalf, but on ours. When someone mistreats us, we want justice. To the point we act out in anger and sin. In moments like these, it's wise to imitate God's forgiveness.
Imitating God's forgiveness is not easy. Why should we forgive—especially when we have been wronged? Paul answers that: because "Christ forgave you." God's forgiveness and grace is scandalous. We do not deserve it, but because of God's great love, it is offered as a free gift. Unreal! Having received and experienced God's forgiveness, Paul admonishes us to forgive and "live a life of love." The very character of God that motivates forgiveness is love. We know a powerful definition of love is "to will the good of another." The words we speak, the thoughts we entertain, and the actions we take, motivated by love, bring the very best for another.
I cannot think of anything better for my life than imitating God. Oscar Wilde is known for popularizing the quote "imitation is the sincerest form of flattery..." That is so true of us. Who else is there worthy of our imitating? If God seems too far, I challenged you to find someone close to you who imitates Jesus—imitate them—as they imitate Jesus. We all draw closer to God doing so.
As a quick reminder, we will be meeting this Sunday, February 5, for our 15 Minutes of Prayer between services. After the 9:00am service, please join us in the Parish Hall as we praying for the future of Graham Memorial Presbyterian Church. We will pray for our church leadership, for the incoming interim pastor, and for whomever the Lord is calling to lead us next in this season. We will start praying at 10:10am and say "amen" at 10:25!
Blessings,
Pastor John
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
How to Invest Wisely
Good Wednesday to You,
What an exciting weekend! While Pastor John and our middle school youth were praising God on a mountain top, we were praising Him in the pews! Ruling Elder Don Steuer announced that Reverend David Rodriguez will be our Interim Pastor. His first day in the office is March 1st and he plans to start preaching Sunday, March 5th. A heartfelt thank you goes out to each elder serving on the Interim Pastoral Search Committee. We are so grateful for them!
The annual congregational meeting is this Friday, January 27th at 6:00pm. All members are invited to attend as we participate in the governing of GMPC.
Are you ready for some tips on how to invest wisely? While I’d love to talk finances with you, this investment strategy is less about your wallet and more about your walk with Jesus. Chaplain Contreras reminded us on Sunday that God’s desire is for us to invest our talents wisely. Preaching from Matthew 25:14-30, he helped us unpack the Parable of the Talents. Three servants were entrusted with portions of their master’s money. The first two servants doubled their master’s investment. The master called them “good and faithful servants.” The third servant buried his borrowed money in the ground and then made excuses about why he didn’t even try to increase the investment. The master called him “lazy.” Ouch! Sometimes the truth hurts.
I don’t know about you, but I sure hope to hear my Heavenly Master call me a good and faithful servant. Chaplain Contreras outlined five ways Christ calls us to walk with him and step out in faith. Let’s think of this as an investment checklist:
Accept Him. (Is Jesus your Lord and Savior?)
Learn from Him. (Are you reading the Bible?)
Love God and your neighbor. (Even when it isn’t easy, are you loving others?)
Think about what God calls us to think about. (Read Philippians 4:8.)
Serve the body of Christ and the world. (I’ll list a few opportunities below. Will you listen for God’s guidance and then act on it?)
The Lord is still asking “Are you for me or against me?” He can show you where hope and light are. When pressure or suffering come your way, fill your mind with God’s word. His love will pour into you and overflow onto those around you. God is committed to you. His sent his one and only son to take your place on the cross because he loves you! Are you committed to Him? If so, invest today!
Sincerely,
Rachael Tisdale
GMPC’s current opportunities to serve:
Sunday Greeters
Coffee Connection
Sunday School Teacher or Assistant
Awana Leader
Food and Diaper Distribution (Best PCS Ever!)
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
Effects of Grace
Good Wednesday to You,
First, thank you to Don Steuer and the others serving on Interim Pastoral Search Committee (Debbie-Bell Smith, Richard Dukes, Doug Reavie, and Ward Wilson) for your faithful service to Graham. Please keep the committee in your prayers. Second, thank you for the update on this process. With two candidates narrowed down, we trust God will provide the right person at exactly the right time.
On Sunday, we returned to Paul's letter to the church in Ephesus. The first three chapters unpack a theology of God that roots our identity in Christ. Think of it as Paul building the foundation of our salvation and redemption in Christ. In the final three chapters, Paul turns to the Church—how we are to live. Think "practice!"
Paul starts in chapter four with "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received." Earlier in the letter, we read that God called us from before the foundations of the earth. God had us in mind before creation. And, already worked out the plan for salvation! Our calling reminds us of the moment we heard God's voice welcoming us into the family of faith forgiven and free from the consequences of sin. Our calling is to new life in Christ as the Church!
As the Church, the Holy Spirit gives us unity. I said on Sunday that our unity should not be confused with uniformity. In our passage, Paul lays out our foundation, built upon "one body and one Spirit…one hope…one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all" (Eph 4:4-6). For if we are in Christ, then we are one Church with many expressions of faith.
I challenged you to live into the kingdom of Heaven reaching for humility, gentleness, patience, and bearing with one another in love (some have translated bearing with one another as "putting up with each other in love"). How is that going for you today? I pray you've had amble opportunities to reach for patience over frustration! I hope you've reached for gentleness over harshness. As we reach for these qualities, the Holy Spirit changes our default setting from one to the other.
As a reminder, our Annual Congregational Meeting is fast approaching. We will gather in the sanctuary on Friday, January 27, at 6:00pm to celebrate what God has done at Graham Memorial Presbyterian Church in 2022 and look forward to what God is doing in and through us for 2023. Our time together will be followed by dinner together. If you plan to join us for dinner following the meeting, please RSVP here so we can plan accordingly!
Keep up the good work!
Blessings,
Pastor John
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
Timing
Good Wednesday to You,
We often find ourselves working towards "perfect timing." Take a look at any stage of life, the weight of any major event, timing feels like everything. The questions people ask, "is this the right time to buy a house?" or, "Is this the right time to get married?" I shared on Sunday morning how I am blown away by the timing of athletes, especially quarterbacks and their ability to throw a pass. With the football is in the air, the timing of the ball and receiver must arrive at the spot at the same time. Simply a amazing when it works perfectly. To get to that level of expertise, they have to put in thousands of hours. But, even in that example, some passes are incomplete and it feels like the timing is just not right, and the rhythm they are in is interrupted. (Yes, there is a defense working to disrupt their rhythm, but that's a sermon for another day.)
Everyone has some kind of routine in the day. The days add up and create weeks. Weeks add up and create months. Months turn into seasons. Every day we build patterns and rhythms—it's call "life." We grow to love each of the patterns we create—the timing of it feels perfect. Those same patterns help us get from one point to the next. But, when the timing shifts, or when seasons change, we ask more questions. Like, why did this have to change? Or, how do we go back to what we know? What do we do next?
The wisdom found in Ecclesiastes tells us "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the sun." We looked at chapter 3 in which the author points out there is a time for everything, "a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot." We know these things intellectually, but when we experience these shifts in time, our rhythms are disrupted and we can feel disjointed or lost. Sometimes, in an effort for self-preservation, we feel numb to it all.
What we know about the book of Ecclesiastes is the author sets out to identify the meaning of everything. Many of us know the saying "Meaningless! Meaningless! Utterly meaningless. Everything is meaningless." It comes from Ecclesiastes 1:2. After all the places in which the author searches for meaning, the conclusion is made: "Fear God and keep his commands, for this is the whole duty of man" (Eccl. 12:13). We are entering a new season of life at the comer of Tenth and C Avenue. Two things remain: 1) God is Sovereign and 2) our mission "To Know Christ and Make Christ Known" will continue.
I challenged everyone, even myself, when the moments of loss come over you, or when frustration sets in because weere in a new season, to hold our your hands out, palms facing up and ask: "Holy Spirit, what are you teaching me in this new season I am in?" We worship a God who is faithful in all seasons of life—not just the good ones but all of them—good bad and ugly. As you hold your hands out, allow the Holy Spirit to comfort you in this time of transition. My prayer has been that you would hear God's voice in a meaningful way. I didn't leave the challenge with just listening. As my good friend says "We're better together than apart." I challenged you to share your experience with someone close to you. Invite them into this new season with you. In our new season, together, with the guidance and comfort from the Holy Spirit, we will continue to be the Church, living into the Kingdom here and now.
Blessings,
Pastor John
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
All God’s People Said…
Good Wednesday to You,
What a gift! If you missed Pastor David's final worship service on Sunday, January 1, 2023, I would highly recommend tuning into our Vimeo channel to watch it online. As always, the choir filled the sanctuary with beautiful melodies. The Word proclaimed was masterfully woven together, focusing on Paul's letter to the church in Ephesus as he encouraged the church. We too were encouraged as we looked back at how we have grown in 30 years. All our worship brought joy and to the Creator, our Redeemer and Sustainer of all things seen and unseen. To God be all glory, honor, and praise! Indeed a blessed gift to us all.
With the close of one chapter, God is at work writing the future of Graham Memorial Presbyterian Church. Many are asking, what's next? Who is God calling to lead the church at the corner of 10th and C Avenue? Those are good and fair questions that I'd like to take a few minutes to answer.
Our Session appointed 5 elders to proceed with reviewing applications and interviewing prospective candidates for the Interim Senior Pastor. They are charged with an important role in the transition of hiring an Interim. I am confident, as you should be as well, that God is holding us close and that those whom the Lord called into leadership are seeking the Holy Spirit for guidance, strength, and courage. In the days ahead, continue to keep the church staff and leadership in your prayers.
As Presbyterians, we cling to "order"—for we worship a God of Order. There is nothing God does which is not purposeful or orderly. The opening pages of Scripture reveal a God who ordered the universe, placed the stars, the moon, and the sun in place to bring order to seasons on earth. We see a God who created vegetation, animals, and humanity, all in order; and they too reflect order as they all reproduce "according to their kind." Order and purpose is a gift from above.
As we move forward into the next chapter for Graham, be encouraged and strengthened by the Holy Spirit, as the Spirit leads the Session, our staff, and the congregation. We are one body, celebrating God's faithfulness—a gift from God.
This coming Sunday, we return to our regularly scheduled services: 9:00am and 10:30am. We will celebrate Communion together—another beautiful gift. I pray that as we approach the Lord's Table, we will experience God's peace and healing, trusting God has not abandoned Graham.
Blessings,
Pastor John
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
Sing to the Lord/A Final Word on Wednesday
Good Wednesday to you,
How was your Christmas? I hope it was filled with laughter and love. While disappointment, stress, and sadness often accompany the holidays, let us not forget the joy that comes as well. Personally, my Christmas was bittersweet. The sweetness was abundant. Andrew came home from South Korea and Heidi and Louis came down from Seattle. Our family was together to celebrate Christmas. The sweetness continued as we gathered with loved ones to worship together on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning. Sweet were the themes of Advent – hope, peace, joy, and love. Sweet are the memories of lighting the Christ candle with my family, and looking out on the sanctuary filled with faces reflecting the light of candles held in their hands. Sweet were the sounds of Christmas hymns being sung by the congregation. (Illness prevented Jody from joining us Christmas Eve and Christmas morning; she’s much better now, but we did not let that diminish our joy at being together.) The bitterness came from knowing that this is our last Christmas together as a family in the Kirk House, our home for almost 30 years. The bitterness continued in realizing we celebrated our last Christmas season with all of you.
What a privilege it has been to be the under shepherd of Graham Memorial Presbyterian Church all these years. There have been tremendous blessings, a few disappointments, and even some regrets. But I do not regret investing in your lives for the kingdom of God. There will be changes in the days ahead for Graham Memorial, but one thing will not change – God's love for you and this community. I believe God has great plans for you all. Continue growing spiritually as a body of believers, remembering that Christ, alone, is the head of the Church.
We will be spending the month of January moving out of the Kirk House, then catching our breath for a few weeks before heading out on our "gap year." The year 2023 will find us on the road, visiting friends and family across the nation, while introducing TryPraying.org to the nation. Our plan is to send out a monthly email to anyone interested in following our progress. My new email address is davidmcelrath@trypraying.org. If you would like to be included in our monthly missive, send me an email at that address, and I will add your name to the list.
This next Sunday will be my last Sunday as the pastor of Graham Memorial Presbyterian Church. We will gather to worship at 10:00am for one service, with a viewing of the “One on One“ video prepared for my retirement party showing at 9:15am in the sanctuary (in case you were unable to attend the party). I anticipate it being a joyfully difficult morning, but one I will remember for the rest of my life. You have helped me grow spiritually and blessed me and my family abundantly. With all my heart, I say, "Thank you."
May God bless you and keep you always,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
Love
Good Wednesday to you,
As our Advent season ends, I hope your hearts were warmed by the choir's Christmas Cantata this past Sunday. As I said on Sunday, music is the fusion of right-brain and left-brain cooperation. Music is the creative expression of higher mathematics. Our choir and accompanying musicians demonstrated this brilliantly on Sunday. It was a "Breath of Heaven" amongst us.
With the fourth Advent theme of love behind us, our Advent journey will conclude this coming Saturday night with our Christmas Eve services at 4:30pm (for the Bell Ringing service, designed for children/families to "ring in" the birth of our Savior), and 6:00pm for the traditional Candlelight service. All the candles will be lit, including our final "Christ" candle, the Light of the World. Remember, we will still gather for worship this coming Sunday, but for one service only at 10:00am.
It is not too late to contribute to the Alternative Christmas Market! To date, you have "loved on our missionaries" to the tune of over $35,000! Clearly, missions is as near to our hearts as it is to God's. You can click here to donate, or drop a check (or cash) by the church office.
I hope to see you all this weekend!
Grace and peace,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
Joy
Good Wednesday to you,
The third week of Advent focuses on Joy. However, this past week I have encountered many people who are struggling to be joyful. Be it a child who is making poor choices, an aging parent needing higher levels of care, or even difficulties at work or at home, joy can be elusive. In reviewing our Advent themes, it is important to remember that they all work together in anticipation of the return of Jesus – the Second Coming.
The plan God had from the foundations of the earth was to redeem creation, a creation that was very good in the beginning. Disobedience severed our relationship with God, but God refused to abandon us to our own devices. Thus, a promise was given to Abraham and Sarah, a promise fulfilled in Jesus. As He ascended into the heavens, the angels told His followers that He would return. This is our hope. Peace with God was made possible through Jesus, who is the atonement for our sin. Though we still live in a broken world, the promise of His return kindles joy in our spirit.
That joy is most keenly felt in community. Paul prays that God, who gives us endurance and encouragement, would give us a spirit of unity as we follow Jesus. The family of God provides us with authentic community that is essential when we are facing challenges and uncertainty. Remember, no matter what you are facing, you are never alone. In the days and months ahead, this truth will carry you through. STICK TOGETHER!
This next week we celebrate the fourth week of Advent with our annual choir Christmas Cantata. This beautiful presentation will be heard at both services on Sunday. I am looking forward to this, and I hope you are too!
Well done to all who helped with the Best PCS Ever! Annual Christmas Store. The event was a huge success and a blessing to over 100 junior enlisted families. What a joy! And the donations for the Alternative Christmas Market keep rolling in. Your generosity is an overwhelming testimony of God's faithfulness in our midst. If you have not yet finished your Christmas shopping, consider checking out the Alternative Christmas Market. Shopping is available until December 31 at www.gmpc.org/acm.
Once again, I remind you, our Christmas Eve services will be at 4:30pm for the Bell Ringing service (designed for children/families to "ring in" the birth of our Savior), and 6:00pm for the traditional Candlelight service. Since Christmas falls on Sunday this year, we will be having one special service on Christmas Day at 10:00am for the entire family. There will be no Sunday School that morning, but trust me, our time together will be joyful and engaging for all ages. Also, will have one service on New Year's Day, my last Sunday. It, too, will be at 10:00am and may last a little longer than an hour.
Grace and peace to you all,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!