Sunday Reflections - December 29, 2016

A New Year And A New Name Hello Deer Flat Family! I came across this piece that I thought was worth sharing. Take a look at it… Happiness depends upon your outlook on life. - Find the good in all situations Attitude is just as important as ability. - Keep your attitude positive Passion find yours this year! - Do what you love and you will never work Positive thoughts make everything easier. - Stay focused and stay positive You are unique, with special gifts, use them. - Never forget you have talent New beginnings with a new year. Enthusiasm - a true secret of success. Wishes - may they turn into goals. Years go by too quickly, enjoy them. - Wisdom from your elders, listen Energy may you have lots of it. - Take care of yourself Appreciation of life, don't take it for granted. - Live each day Relax take the time to relax in this coming year. - Keep a balance in your life

As we’ve approached this New Year, I’ve been thinking about the wonderful advantage we have of knowing God, who knows the future. He knows what lays ahead. He knows what we will face. He knows all of the unknown. One of the things we’ve enjoyed over the past few years has been the series on THE NAMES OF GOD. It’s my desire to take us into this New Year with the awareness of some NEW NAMES of God. We will be looking at a number of these amazing names, all of which tell us about the kind of God we serve, who is able to do all things. I know we’re going to have an incredible trek together over these Sundays of January. 

This Sunday I’ll give you an overview and lay the foundation. I can’t wait to share these new names with you. I’ll close with a poem that I think speaks well about having confidence as we head into a tremendous New Year!

His Unfailing Presence

(Author Unknown)

Another year I enter

Its history unknown;

Oh, how my feet would tremble

To tread its paths alone!

But I have heard a whisper

I know I shall be blest;

"My presence shall go with thee,

And I will give thee rest."

What will the New Year bring me?

I may not, must not know; will it be love and rapture,

Or loneliness and woe?

Hush! Hush! I hear His whisper;

I surely shall be blest;

"My presence shall go with thee,

And I will give thee rest."

Don’t forget: ONE SERVICE AT 10:30 am 

Loving You and Loving Him,

Pastor D

PS – A sudden and unexpected passing of one of our congregants who lost her husband less than two months ago, has left their doggies needing a forever home. If you have it in your heart to love on these special members of their family and would like to take them in, please call Jessi at 459-3845 or 880-2897.

Sunday Reflections - December 21, 2016

Dear Church Family,

It’s hard to believe it’s Christmas time again already. What’s even a bit more challenging is that this is our 5^th Christmas together at Deer Flat.  How is that even possible when we just arrived here two weeks ago? Well, Christmas provides a unique opportunity each year for all of us to re-visit the past year and see God’s goodness, and perhaps do some re-focusing as we look forward.

Not only are we reminded of the awe-inspiring, world-changing, 

life-altering gift that is Jesus; but we are also reminded of our need for this Jesus to heal us in our brokenness. This is indeed why he came. To bring peace between God and man. This is why the angels declared triumphantly “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Luke 2:14   

As a new year approaches, I want to challenge us as a church to impact this world for good. People are in great need, and more than ever. You see it and so do I. We can still make a difference! We need to be people of prayer, faith, righteousness and compassion. We need to love each other and love God above all else. I don’t know about you, but I really want to live more full for Christ in 2017 than ever before.

What an exciting year it has been for Jer and I and the whole Staff! By God’s grace we have had an outstanding year at Deer Flat. God has blessed this congregation in virtually every area of ministry we have.  These past almost 5 years have been so full, so meaningful and so fun - it just makes us look at the future with tremendous anticipation about what God has in store for us together.

For Jer and I, we have sure felt the love of all of you who make up the Deer Flat Family. I’m especially grateful for your kindness and love that you extended with the loss last month of Dad, and just bathing us in your prayers. I know that the whole Staff joins me in saying that you all have been a HUGE blessing to each of us, and we are thanking God for a chance to serve you here at this amazing place!  Please continue to pray for us as we boldly move into an adventuresome future.

Now, “May you be filled with the wonder of Mary, the obedience of Joseph, the joy of the angels, the eagerness of the shepherds, the determination of the magi, and the peace of the Christ Child. God bless you now and forever.”  Amen!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all!

Pastor D, Jer and the entire Staff of Deer Flat Church!

Can’t wait to see you this Sunday at 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Reflections - December 15, 2016

THE LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM

We’ve heard about it most all of our lives. This little place called “Bethlehem”. It is still very intriguing to me that I’ve been able to visit there a variety of times over the years. I’m probably more fascinated this year than ever before. The significance of this little town is no small thing.

It’s located just 5 miles south of Jerusalem and its name means “House of Bread”. We all know that Bethlehem is the birthplace of Jesus, but what is the bigger significance of this little town? It is a city in the hill country of Judah that was originally called Ephrath and shows up clear back in Genesis, but it was also called Bethlehem Ephratah by the Prophet Micah, and “the City of David” in Luke 2.

                    

The first mention of this tiny place in the Bible is the place where Jacob buried his wife Rachel, who died in child birth. Her burial site is still marked to this day, right alongside the road going into Bethlehem. Just to the east where the fields lay was the scene of the story of Ruth. 

Bethlehem was also the birthplace of David and the place where he was anointed king by the Prophet Samuel. And, for whatever reason, it was distinguished above every other city as the birthplace of the promised Messiah – The Bread of Life.

It is the relationship of Bethlehem to Christ that has really put it at its highest visibility. The old prophet Micah was understood to indicate that the Messiah, like David, would be born in Bethlehem not Jerusalem. Three of the Gospel writers, Matthew, Luke and John, all report that Jesus was born in that humble village. Flash forward three centuries, during the reign of the first Christian emperor of the Roman Empire. It was under Constantine that the Church of the Nativity was constructed. It was destroyed during the Samaritan revolt around AD 529 and rebuilt between 527-565. That ancient structure forms the basic unit that is still in use today although many modifications have occurred, especially during the Middle Ages.

I love what Max Lucado says about Bethlehem, “God knows what it’s like to be a human. When I talk to him about deadlines or long lines or tough times, he understands. He’s been there. He’s been here. Because of Bethlehem, I have a friend in heaven. Because of Bethlehem, I have a Savior in heaven.”

Christmas begins what Easter celebrates. The child in the cradle became the king on the cross. And because he did, there are no marks on my record. Just grace. His offer has no fine print. He didn’t tell me, “Clean up before you come in.” He offered, “Come in, and I’ll clean you up.” It’s not my grip on him that matters but his grip on me. And his grip is sure. So is his presence in my life. God is always near us. Always for us. Always in us. We may forget him, but God will never forget us. We’re forever on his mind and in his plans. He called himself ‘Immanuel’ which means ‘God with us’.

I can’t wait to tell you more about this amazing little place when we’re together this Sunday at Deer Flat. Come expecting an outstanding morning.  I look forward to being together with you!

Merry Christmas!

Pastor D

PS - Is God calling you to serve Him abroad? Deer Flat is taking a trip to Cuba June 2-10, 2017. Join us for an informational meeting which will lay out the trip details and show you how to sign up for the trip this upcoming Sunday, December 18^th after 2^nd service in the downstairs Youth Room, #25. The final day to register for the trip is January 22^nd. Have questions? Please call Heather at 899-0586 or Martin at 353-2500.

Sunday Reflections - December 8, 2016

HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT A “SELFLESS” CHRISTMAS?

Hello Deer Flat Family,

We’re eight days into the month, and maybe you’re not totally done shopping.  I’d like to take a moment to provoke your thoughts.  It’s been on my heart over the past couple of months to target a “selfless” Christmas.  What does that mean and what does that look like?

It’s so easy for us to be consumed with ourselves.  We live in a world that is over the top with self-centeredness.  When you step back from the commercialism of Christmas, you realize that the thrust is about considering “others.”  This was and still is the heart of the very Savior that left Heaven and all the joys of it, and took on flesh and blood, determined that he would serve and give His life as a ransom for many. 

You don’t have to look very hard or very far to see the overwhelming needs that surround us in the lives of others.  I’m wondering how different it would be if you (and if you have a family) thought about being intentional about make this a selfless Christmas.

Donating is easy to do and it makes a big difference. You can donate time, talents or money.  Donate to a charity, donate clothes to a homeless shelter or donate food or toys to needy families this holiday season.  Volunteering is one of the single greatest thing you can do during this season.  Perhaps adopting a family for the holidays. Fixing a meal, scratching out some notes of encouragement, or stopping by to visit the forgotten person who is at the care center.  This and so much more awaits anyone who wants to get out of themselves and become a “go giver.”

Whatever you do, don’t miss this Sunday!  I’ll give you two great reasons…

First hour – 3 special guests – YOU CAN’T MISS THIS.  You’re going to be given one of the greatest opportunities to make a tangible difference in someone’s life, perhaps like never before. I’ll be sharing this amazing invitation through these special guests whom you’re going to love.  It’s a great morning to include someone!  Amazing music and amazing guests await you.

Second hour – The Children’s Christmas Program.  This is ALWAYS a huge part of December at Deer Flat.  Julie and her team have been preparing for weeks and now the big day arrives.  Bring your family, your camera and your friends.  It’s going to be full of life and GREAT NEWS!

I can’t wait to see you this Sunday!  Come expecting a tremendous morning.  Let’s capitalize on these Sundays of December together!  I LOVE MY CHURCH!

Pastor D

Sunday Reflections - November 18, 2016

HEY EVERYONE, IT’S ALMOST THANKSGIVING!

Hello Deer Flat Family,

Maybe, like me, you’ve heard this saying before: “When you see the lights going up and the Christmas music playing in the stores, you know that Thanksgiving is just around the corner.”  It’s coming at us fast.  So, I’m thinking about it and here’s a few of my thoughts…

* Where has the time gone?

* I love Thanksgiving – friends, family, food, fun, football, Christmas lights, and the beginning of Advent.

* There’s nothing like a great turkey sandwich made from the leftovers on the softest bread in the world, followed by a small piece of pumpkin pie with just a hint of whipped cream.

* I hope these people help us with the dishes before they walk out the door.

* How thankful have I been throughout this year? I found myself answering, “I’m really thankful the election season is over! REALLY THANKFUL!”

* I can get my green bean casserole fix and move on.

Okay, enough of my thoughts. What about yours? Have you been living with gratitude this year? Let’s talk about that for a minute. A grateful heart is a true blessing. It’s the ability to give God praise in the good times and the not so good times. The Psalmist declared, "I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart." Ps. 30:12

Gratitude means thankfulness, counting your blessings, noticing simple pleasures, and acknowledging everything that you receive. It means learning to live your life as if everything were a miracle, and being aware on a continuous basis of how much you’ve been given. Gratitude shifts your focus from what your life lacks to the abundance that is already present. In addition, behavioral and psychological research has shown the surprising life improvements that can stem from the practice of gratitude. Giving thanks makes people happier and more resilient, it strengthens relationships, it improves health, and it reduces stress.

Gratitude is a powerful thing. In fact, if you’re not careful with it, it will change your life. I’ll be talking to you more about it this Sunday as we look at one of the most poignant stories in the Gospel. The power of gratitude is amazing. That kind of an attitude gets God’s attention. I can’t wait to share it with you this Sunday.

Speaking of grateful – we would be so thankful if we had some capable VOLUNTEERS to help us in the Children’s area. We are in need of a couple of teachers for elementary level boys. If you have an interest, please don’t hesitate to see our Children’s Ministry Director, Julie Walker, or her assistant Larissa Esparza. They would be so encouraged and you would be so blessed.

We are headed into one of the greatest seasons of the year – Thanksgiving and Advent. We have an outstanding Musical Program being presented on December 4 and then a double good Children’s Program being presented December 11, during Second Hour.

I hope you’ll join me in reaching out and inviting friends, neighbors & family to an unforgettable Sunday at Deer Flat!

Loving You and Loving Him,

Pastor D

PS - Deer Flat Youth will be going to Cuba in June of 2017.  Are you called to go? Is your youth interested?  Please come to an informational meeting November 20^th in the downstairs Youth Room at the conclusion of the 2^nd service. For more information, call Heather Webster at 208-899-0586.

Sunday Reflections - November 11, 2016

DAVID DOLAN AND DAD

Hello Deer Flat Family,

There’s a verse in the Bible that I’ve been drawn to over the past week. "Weeping may last for the night but joy comes with the morning." It’s a reminder that the season, the situation or the hardship we’re in will not last forever. The “night” represents the harder times in life; the trials, meaning only a season of our life--while “morning” represents the time when that difficult time has passed.

Life certainly does include times of weeping - even in the lives of the most faithful. Sometimes it happens because our misdeeds have incurred God's anger, and sometimes just because of suffering that comes from living in a fallen world, it comes to an end. Morning stands for the time when God gives relief; it might not arrive until the last day, but it will surely come. "Morning” comes after the night, therefore joy comes after weeping--and as a believer there is True, Pure Joy because of our hope in God; that Joy comes from His Sovereignty, His Power, and His Faithfulness. He has promised He will see us through the hard times.

Do you remember the song, "Trading My Sorrows:"

I'm trading my sorrows

I'm trading my shame

I'm laying them down

For the joy of the Lord

I'm trading my sickness

I'm trading my pain

I'm laying them down

For the joy of the Lord

Yes Lord yes Lord

Yes yes Lord

Yes Lord yes Lord

Yes yes Lord

Yes Lord yes Lord

Yes yes Lord Amen

I am pressed but not crushed

Persecuted not abandoned

Struck down but not destroyed

I am blessed beyond the curse

For His promise will endure

That His joy's gonna be my strength

Though the sorrow may last for the night

His joy comes with the morning

It's about laying whatever we are going through in life down before the Lord, trading your sickness, your pain, your sorrow, laying them down for the Joy of the Lord--God is Faithful! no matter what you are going through. He is Faithful to heal, to provide. I’ve been finding this to be so true with the departure of Dad. What joy comes in the midst of sorrow.  God is so good! May you just put your God-given faith in Him and experience pure Joy in your day, in your season, in your life.

This Sunday – Special Guest David Dolan.  Do me a favor and think of who you need to invite to an unforgettable morning at Deer Flat. 

I can’t wait to see you.  And, thank you again for all of you who have loved us and prayed for us during this time of loss.  Don’t know what we’d do without you!

Loving You and Loving Him,

Pastor D

One more thing:

OPERATION GUARDian Angel

We would like to honor and serve those who GUARD our freedoms this Christmas by celebrating the families in the 124th Fighter Wing at Gowen in Boise.  As you heard last Sunday, there are so many different dynamics when a loved one is deployed. We will still have over 100 airmen & women from Gowen deployed this Christmas.  If you would like to help honor them, please stop by the tree in the lobby and pick up a tag to purchase a gift for a child.  If you would like to make a donation, please mark it “Operation GUARDian Angel”.

For more information, please contact Jessi at jessisams@deerflat.org or 880-2897.

Sunday Reflection - November 3, 2016

SOME GREAT THINGS HAPPENING AT DEER FLAT

THAT YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS!

I’ll get right to it…

#1. THIS SUNDAY – We’re going to take some time to honor those who have served our Nation and who provided us the freedoms that we enjoy, including the ability to gather and worship without worry. Veterans are everywhere; we stand behind them in the grocery store line, sit next to them in the waiting room and worship beside them in church every week. Their fraternity is made up of courage, tenacity, and strength. Across the years of being involved in war, they have reflected heights of human charity; standing in the line of fire for one another, risking their lives for civilians and comrades alike.

There is a very serious crisis happening among our Veterans. 22 Veterans a day are taking their lives. That’s 1 every 65 minutes, a rate higher than any other recorded in our nation's history. Suicide is currently the leading cause of death among our troops, those men and women we ask God to bless. We get a chance to hear some sharing from the heart from several of our Deer Flat Vets. This will be a God honoring morning and one that you’ll feel so good about inviting a friend, especially if they have served our country.

#2. NEXT SUNDAY: NOVEMBER 13 – Special Guest David Dolan will be speaking both hours. You’re going to love his heart for God and his insights regarding the future. David is an accomplished journalist who served as the CBS News correspondent in Jerusalem, reported for Moody Broadcasting, was a regular with Zola Levitt and has authored several books. Two things: 1) Don’t Miss This!  2) Bring a Friend!

#3. AN HOUR OF PRAYER FOR OUR NATION – I’m asking you to join me at 5 pm this Sunday for an hour of intercession on behalf of our upcoming election and this really important decision. This hour will go by fast. No boredom. Your investment in seeking God’s Will for our Nation will make a difference. I hope you’ll carve out the time for this time of prayer. I know that God will hear us!

#4. SLEEP A LITTLE LONGER – Yep, it’s Time Change Sunday. Turn that clock back an hour and enjoy that extended sleep. Here’s what will happen – 1) You’ll be in a better mood and 2) You’ll stay awake for the whole service!

I can’t wait to see you this Lord’s Day. Come expecting a fresh encounter with the Living God! I’m thanking God for you today. I LOVE MY CHURCH!

Loving You and Loving Him,

Pastor D

Holiday Schedule

Thanksgiving - Thursday, November 24th - Office Closed

Christmas Musical - Sunday, December 4th at 9 am and 11 am

     No adult Sunday classes either hour

     KidZone - Regular classes first hour

     No KidzChurch second service - join your families in the Worship Center

     No God, Life & Other Stuff for Middle School Students

Children's Christmas Program - Sunday, December 11th at 11 am

Christmas Eve - No Service

Christmas Day - Sunday, December 25th at 10:30 am (One Service)

New Year's Day - Sunday, January 1st at 10:30 am (One Service)

The Office will be closed on Monday, December 26th and Monday, January 2nd

Sunday Reflections - October 26, 2016

THERE IS A TIME FOR EVERYTHING

Wise old King Solomon teaches us much about living in our world.  For instance, take a look at his words from Ecclesiastes:

    There is a time for everything,

    and a season for every activity under the heavens: 

    a time to be born and a time to die,

    a time to plant and a time to uproot,

    a time to kill and a time to heal,

    a time to tear down and a time to build, 

    a time to weep and a time to laugh,

    a time to mourn and a time to dance,

    a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,

    a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, 

    a time to search and a time to give up,

    a time to keep and a time to throw away, 

    a time to tear and a time to mend,

    a time to be silent and a time to speak, 

    a time to love and a time to hate,

    a time for war and a time for peace.

    a time for work and a time to retire (words added by Pastor D)

    He has made everything beautiful in its time. 
                                                                         Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, 11

Contrary to popular opinion, retirement is not the time in which your satisfaction with life declines and your health deteriorates. Instead, it’s the exact opposite: Retirement is likely to improve your overall happiness and health, at least it is according to the National Bureau of Economic Research.

In light of that, we have an event happening within our Pastoral Team at Deer Flat.  I’ll let you read this gracious letter for yourself.

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

            I write this letter with mixed emotions, joy and sadness, as my wife and I have had an awesome ten plus years serving as your Associate Pastor to the Latino community at large.  How the years have blown by. We have shared many special moments, babies, weddings, picnics, and many other fun activities.  There have also been those times of sharing in sorrow, with hospital visit, nursing home visits and funerals of loved ones.

            My wife and I have decided to start a new chapter in our lives. We will be retiring by the end of this 2016 year. It has been an honor and privilege to have been a part of the Deer Flat staff. My thoughts and prayers will be with them as they continue to lead the people of Deer Flat to bigger and better adventures.  I want to thank you all at Deer Flat for your friendship, help and support. You are an amazing and generous people, not just to my wife and I, but to the widows, orphans, the poor and the disenfranchised. May God continue to Bless you all and fill you all with His Love and Grace. I am taking away many great and wonderful memories of what God has done because of your faithfulness to Him.

            Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

Sincerely,

Jose and Jan Quezada,

So, Pastor Jose is retiring - not dying. One wife commented about retirement, saying "Twice as much husband for half the income."  So, you can see both Pastor Jose and Jan need our prayers.

We rejoice with them on this decision and we will be planning a time of celebration - to be announced - as their retirement date gets closer. They have given a significant number of years serving the people of Canyon County and the Deer Flat Family. No one will ever know the amount of miles they have driven, gallons of fuel used, vehicle

tune-ups done, hospital, home and care center visits, phone calls made, prayers prayed, funerals conducted, counseling sessions refereed, weddings performed, lunches bought and calls in the night taken, except the Lord alone. Time doesn’t permit me to tell you of the amount of furniture and appliances they have secured for people, furniture they have delivered, or assisted people who needed help moving. All of this done by Pastor Jose and Jan.

Did I mention the classes taught, sermons preached, clothing distributed, food delivered and meetings attended? We as a church are much indebted when it comes to these dear servants. That is what Pastor Jose and Jan are – servants. They will continue to be servants as they move into retirement, because that’s who they are.

May God bless them as they close this chapter of their lives! We are glad they will remain with us in Caldwell.

Loving You, Loving Him, and Loving the Quezadas

Pastor D      

PS – That’s the title of the message this Sunday – PS.  We’ll look at the final two verses of the Book of James. You’re going to love what happens at Deer Flat this Sunday! I can’t wait to see you.

Sunday Reflections - October 19, 2016

LIVING EFFECTIVELY IN A MESSED UP WORLD

Hello Deer Flat,

I was perusing the headlines this morning and reminded again of how the world we live in is filled with turmoil.  Here’s a sample from today:

Retaking Mosul – Kurdish, Iraqi and American forces vs. ISIS

The Quagmire of Aleppo

UN Sanctions Against Israel

Iranian Missiles targeting US Navy Destroyer in Red Sea

Disaster Clean Up in Haiti

Finger Pointing Between FBI and Department of Justice

The fierce conflicts we are witnessing in the two presidential camps are not just an American phenomenon, indeed it’s hard to find a country that isn’t fighting internally as we are. Most of the world is intensely divided, and our own domestic debates are part of a global disruption.

I saw a note written to a Christian Ministry that I thought captured the feelings of many people.

“I’m a Christian and I’m scared. It seems like the globalization of our world teeters on the brink of collapse. I worry about recessions. I worry about our retirement funds. I worry about the future of our children. I can’t believe it, but I’m scared to go to the mall. Is it safe?

Stock market dives, natural disasters, violence, and political unrest terrify me! How do I find peace?”

The ability to live sanely these days is a “God thing.” Here’s the key:

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7

There is no doubt that the events happening in the world today are scary, and can bring much anxiety. But we who belong to the Lord must come to Him with our fears, anxious thoughts and troubles. He says “Fear Not” throughout His Word.

As Christians, it is imperative that we look to His Word to help us during these times. This also presents us with opportunities to share the Gospel with the lost. They are afraid too, and we have the BEST news in the whole word to tell them! It is during times when people feel so vulnerable, that they just might be more open to the message of Salvation.

Isaiah writes, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.” (Isaiah 26:3-4)

Trusting in Christ is what transforms us, and keeping our mind stayed on Him is what sustains us. However, while we have the responsibility of actively keeping our minds fixed on his truth, Christ is ultimately the one who pursues us, opens our eyes, redeems us, and sustains us. If our Savior has done all of this for us, what more shall we fear? What are you allowing to steal the peace which he has purchased for you?

One of the greatest culprits that robs us of peace is our own lack of knowing the truth and believing it. Jesus tells us clearly that he will keep him in perfect peace the one whose mind is stayed on him. Why? Because when our minds are stayed on him, we come to know more of the incomparable holiness, power, love, sovereignty, and grace of the God we serve, which creates in us a greater humility, dependence, and trust in him alone. That knowing removes the fear.

When his Word permeates our hearts, it changes our thoughts, actions, and entire being. The things we once held so tightly to – our hopes and dreams, external comforts, health and financial security, and any other things which often rob our peace for fear of losing them – begin to lose their power over us as we learn to trust more fully in the love and sovereignty of Christ.

For the peace of Christ is not found in lack of turmoil, but in Christ’s presence within it.

Let me close with an important word. For a number of years, Deer Flat Church has made significant investments in Haiti. As you know, this small country has suffered much over the years due to poverty, earthquakes, disease, and most recently, Hurricane Matthew, resulting in a big increase in cholera, poor drinking water and little food. Deer Flat continues to make investments in Haiti, for which we are thankful. Your generosity still helps us make a difference there. 

A great couple in the Deer Flat Family are Vahan and Zoe Sipantzi. They too, have also invested much in Haiti. Their generosity has touched many of us as well, because throughout the summer (Sunday after Sunday) they are always loading up our fruit and vegetable wagon with great produce.  The various outlets where they sell their vegetables and produce have now closed for the season, but they still have a wonderful crop of apples and some fall vegetables. 100% OF THE MONEY GENERATED FROM SELLING THEIR HARVEST GOES TO SUPPORT AN ORPHANAGE IN HAITI, OPERATED BY MARANATHA MINISTRIES. Now, here’s the deal: You can bless them and the orphanage by stopping by their home and buying some of their goods. Their address: 26972 Lower Pleasant Ridge Road, Wilder. Just 2 blocks west of Hwy 95.

We’ve got an amazing Lord’s Day awaiting us this Sunday. Do you know someone who needs prayer for healing, some encouragement, some strength to endure? Why not invite them to join us, as we will be praying over all who would like prayer for healing. “Are any sick among you? Call for the Elders of the church. They will anoint you and pray over you, and the prayer of faith will make them well.”  James 5

Can’t wait to see you! Come expecting great things. Bring some faith and some friends!

Loving You and Him,

Pastor D 

Sunday Reflections - October 11, 2016

THE MOST AMAZING DAY IN HISTORY

This evening begins the Holiest day on the Jewish calendar and in the life of the Jewish people. However, this important day isn’t just for the Jews. Once the sun goes down this evening, for the twenty-five hours, Yom Kippur will be observed and remembered. God mapped this whole thing out for His people back in Leviticus.

Then have the trumpet sounded everywhere on the tenth day of the seventh month; on the Day of Atonement sound the trumpet throughout your land.

(Lev. 25:9)

Let me give you some background. The people will refrain from work, fast, and attend synagogue services tonight and tomorrow. “Yom Kippur” means “Day of Atonement,” and it is a day set aside to “afflict the soul,” to atone for the sins of the past year.

Many religious Jews believe that in Heaven the books recording all the deeds of mankind are opened on Rosh Hashanah beginning an annual review of man’s behavior.

Those whose behavior has been exemplary in every respect are given another year of life, those who have demonstrated no redeeming qualities are scheduled for death, and those who fit neither category are given 10 days until Yom Kippur to right all the wrongs committed during the year just past.

These 10 days are called the Days of Awe because each man’s destiny hangs in the balance as he goes about asking forgiveness for sins committed against Him (violations of His Law) and from friends and neighbors for wrongs done to them. On Yom Kippur, the judgment entered in these books is sealed and the books are closed for another year. So this day is, essentially, their last appeal, their last chance to change the judgment, to demonstrate their repentance and make amends.

Yom Kippur is a Holy Sabbath; no work can be performed. Jews refrain from eating and drinking even water. It is a complete, 25-hour fast beginning before sunset on this evening and ending after nightfall tomorrow.

In bible times through the life and times of Jesus, until the destruction of the Temple in AD 70, Yom Kippur was the only day of the year when it was permissible to speak the unspoken, sacred Name of God. During a great and solemn ceremony at the Temple two goats were brought before the High Priest. One was a goat “for the Lord” to be presented as a sin offering as commanded in Lev. 16:7-10. The other was called “the scapegoat” because all the sins of the nation were symbolically placed upon its head, and it was led outside the city. The goat for the sin offering had done nothing to deserve this, but was killed to remind the people that only the shedding of innocent blood could atone for their sins. The death of the two goats symbolically set aside the sins of the nation, made their offering acceptable and gave them another year of peace with their Creator.

A bull was selected and slaughtered, its blood captured in a temple vessel and the High Priest would go into the Holy of Holies and sprinkle the blood on the Mercy Seat. This would atone for those priests who served throughout the year who were not pure.

Following that process, two goats were brought before the High Priest, their respective roles in the ceremony were determined by lot. Two golden lots were placed in a golden bowl and as he placed his hand upon the head of each goat, the High Priest reached into the bowl and pulled out one of the lots. One of the goats would be the scape goat, and the other would be the sacrificial goat. Before the cross the goat that was to be presented to the Lord as a sin offering was always on the right hand of the High Priest. Tradition says that after the cross it never was.

While the High Priest was confessing every conceivable sin to God, and everyone in ear shot was offended by the confession, a scarlet ribbon was tied to the scape goat. According to tradition, a priest would walk that goat out into the wilderness.  While this is taking place, the sacrificial goat would be slaughtered, its blood caught and then the High Priest would take that blood, once again into the Holy of Holies and sprinkle it on the Mercy Seat.  As the sin offering was made, and the blood applied, a miracle would take place out in the wilderness. The moment when God accepted the sin offering and confession of the people, the ribbon on the scape goat would turn from crimson to white, fulfilling the passage from Isaiah 1:18, “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow.” After the cross this never happened again.

The Feasts and Festivals of Leviticus are Only A Shadow ... A Picture of Yeshua

It’s easy to see the Lord in the role of our sin offering, whose shed blood purchased our pardon forever (Hebrews 10:1-4). And at His trial before Pontius Pilate, wasn’t He chosen to bear our sins while Bar Abbas was released? But He was also our peace offering. For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross (Colossians 1:19-20). He is our peace, who has broken down every wall (Ephesians 2:14).

So why was the goat chosen for the Lord never on the right hand again? And why did the ribbon no longer turn white at the death of the scapegoat? The One Who had fulfilled the role that the two goats only symbolized had come. It is He Who sits at the right hand of the Father and it is He Who has forever taken away the sins of all who would accept Him. Where the reality has come the shadow is no longer effective.

The prophetic fulfillment of Yom Kippur will come at the end of the Millennium at the Great White Throne judgment, when all the unsaved dead are brought back to life to be judged according to their works. (Revelation 20:11-15). The books will be opened for the last time and those from all ages who have refused the pardon purchased for them at the cross will bear the full responsibility for their sins against God and man, destined to spend eternity in shame and torment. But those who have accepted the Lord’s pardon are at peace with God, and will spend eternity with Him and shine like the brightness of the Sun. Do we not serve the most amazing God?  To have given His Son for our sin, what a God, what a Jesus, what a miracle.

I am wishing each of you a blessed and meaningful Yom Kippur.  Why not take some time during the next 25 hours and consider carefully what the Savior has done for you?  Perhaps there’s a person that you need to forgive, or maybe even someone you need to seek forgiveness from.

I can’t wait to see you this Sunday for another outstanding Lord’s Day at Deer Flat!

Loving You and Him,

Pastor D                   

BTW – Jer would love to have any of you ladies who can to join her this Saturday morning in the lobby of the church for some coffee and a chat!

Sunday Reflections - October 5, 2016

AWKWARD AND FRUSTRATING

So, I endeavored to watch the debates.  It was awkward, difficult and frustrating.  I’ll be honest, this political season I’ve found myself struggling.  It’s the perfect environment to get me stirred up.

Sometimes in the midst of headline news, uncertain times, and constant debates that affect our future, it's hard to even know where to begin.  I have been so disappointed with more time being spent on attacks than on substance, policy and a hope filled future. Both candidates have the ability to cost themselves their own election without any help from anyone else.

I sense a deep ache in many hearts that cries out for God's mercy and a longing to see Him heal our land. 

We’ve either experienced it or seen it more the past few months.  You watch the news and it instills fear, cynicism, anger, and worry.

     If Candidate A wins, what will happen to national security?

     If Candidate B wins, will moral character go out the window?

     If I vote for a third party, will it be wasted?

     Should I even vote at all?

What is God thinking and what does He expect us to do?

But in all of the battles, defending our views, or pointing out differences, we have to ask ourselves one question… Have we prayed about it as much as we’ve talked about it? 

Our problem isn’t new. Because all our leaders are human, all our past and current leaders have been flawed. And will be flawed in the future. That’s a given.

When we place complete trust in any person, we show we’re flawed, too.

Listen to what King David said a thousands of years ago.

“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God” Ps. 20:7

When we trust too much in democracy or a better candidate or any political party, we too are polishing chariots and grooming horses.

So how can we trust in God instead in real-life ways?

There’s no magic formula in praying verses and words, but there is power through the Spirit of God.  And there’s power in His Truth to bring forgiveness, healing, renewal, and restoration - no matter how uncertain things may seem. God promises that His Word will not return empty, without accomplishing great things.

Some Important Prayer Points:

1. That our nation would turn back to God. May God help us. We need him desperately to renew our hope and restore our land. We need his forgiveness and healing. May His Spirit sweep across our nation and draw many out of darkness. May believers everywhere draw close to Him and seek his face like never before. 

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chron. 7:14

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord…”Ps. 33:12 

2. That we would be faithful in praying for leaders and those in authority, knowing that their decisions directly affect us too. May God give them wisdom and courage as they lead our nation. May He give them a desire to listen for His voice and follow His ways. May God in His mercy, appoint principled, godly men and women into positions of authority in our nation.

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” 1 Tim. 2:1-2   

“When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.” Prov. 29:2

3. That we would recognize God’s Sovereignty over all. His word reminds us that He is the One who ultimately has the power to position all those in leadership, and to remove them. Some may ask, “If God’s going to do whatever He chooses, then why even pray?” More than anything, God desires our hearts to be set on Him. And He chooses to work on behalf of His people. His word reminds us there is great power in prayer as we join together and seek to follow after Him.

It is “God who changes the times and seasons; He sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” Dan. 2:21  

4. That we would not succumb to worry, fear, or defeat. That we wouldn’t grow so weary that we just give up and tune out. Our voices are important. Now, more than ever before. Headline news stories can often incite fear and worry as we think about the future. We don’t have all the answers. We feel powerless to change what we believe needs to be changed. We look around us and see dark days and evil often seems to be winning. But God’s words still remain true in it all. He’s the Light that breaks through the darkness. He’s the One who sets free and has the power to restore our nation.

Don’t be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."  Phil. 4:6-7

5. That our hope would remain in the Lord. That we would recognize His great Power. That we would trust Him and believe that He is Able, and nothing is impossible with Him. He alone is where our real hope is found, not in our leaders, not in the economy, not in the condition of our nation today, or even in the future of tomorrows.

“Look at the nations and watch-- and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told.” Hab. 1:5

“Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, Lord. Repeat them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy.” Hab. 3:2

 Whoever your candidate of choice may be, we can rest in this - God has a plan. He's not pacing heaven’s floors, worried about who will win or what the latest polls show. He's called us to pray, to be salt and light, and to have a voice. We can trust that the outcome is in His hands.

Remember this truth on which our nation was founded.  We are "One Nation under God." God never leaves us to fend for ourselves, wrestling with worry, consumed in fear, or tempted towards hate. He reminds us He is with us and will help us. He reminds us He hasn’t lost control, but has a plan, and His purposes will prevail.

Our hope comes from the Lord, Maker of heaven and earth. And He gives us the strength to keep moving forward.

"Find rest, O my soul, in God alone, my hope comes from Him." Ps. 62:5

“Who have You chosen, Father?

We cannot know.

But Your way is the right way, perfect and good.

If we are under Your judgment, let us be judged.

And if under Your blessing, let us be blessed.

We pray for the next president of the United States, that You might reveal Your will and purpose, and bless his or her soul.

And we pray for each candidate who falls short of the goal.

Remind us to love our enemies and to pray for those who persecute us.

Guide us all, as we cast our ballots.

We pray that You might bless us with a David, a Paul, or a Josiah

And humbly ask that You spare us our just desserts—an unrighteous leader, an Ahab or a Jezebel.

Yet, Thy will be done. Because Your ways are higher than our ways.

And Your thoughts, higher than our own we pray that you would heal our land, and shine your face on us. Our times are in your hands.”

In Jesus' Name,

Amen.

I look forward to seeing you Sunday for another outstanding Lord’s Day at Deer Flat.  Between now and the Election, would you endeavor to whisper a prayer every time you see an ad or a story about politics?  I believe it will make a difference.

Loving You and Him,

Pastor D