FALL SEASON

It seems hard to believe, but the colors are already starting to change, and fall is upon us. The kids are back in school, and Olympians and Teen Club are in full swing. There are things I look forward to, and others, not so much.

In the next few weeks, the look of the landscape will change, as leaves turn from green, to brilliant oranges, reds, and yellows. There will be some places that we just want to stop the car and look at the beauty of fall. But, then, jackets will become a necessity and our “snow birds” will soon start making their trips south, and we will miss them.

Through it all (the things we like and the things we may not), I hope that we take a step back and remember that our God is still in control, overseeing His creation, for “In him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28 ESV) When we see a beautiful landscape, let’s remember that God declared His creation “very good.” Yes, it has been corrupted by the fall (of man, not the season), but still, “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. (Psalm 19:1 ESV)

Even more, remember how much God values you:

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. (Mat 10:29-31 ESV)

Finally,

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phi 4:6-7 ESV)

Remember, God is there, He knows what you’re dealing with, He loves you, and He’ll carry you through!


In His grip,
Pastor Decker

NATIONAL BACK TO CHURCH SUNDAY

Today is National Back to Church Sunday. While we should always be inviting people to come to church, this Sunday is a focused effort, mobilizing God’s people to reach their friends and neighbors.

Back to Church Sunday is a national movement of churches to encourage formerly churched people to rediscover church and try it again. According to LifeWay Research, 38 percent of people are receptive or highly receptive to attending church. 82 percent say they would be open to attending church if a friend invited them. But, unfortunately only 2 percent of active church-going Christians invited someone to church last year!

Hebrews 10 gives us a reminder about the importance of gathering together and encouraging one another:

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (Heb 10:23-25 ESV)

This world tries to tell us that religion is just a personal thing, and it doesn't matter what you believe … you just have to be true to yourself, and not violate your own beliefs. However, God’s Word says differently. Jesus made an exclusive claim that offends many today: “Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6 ESV) And, he formed us into a body, called the church (Col. 1:18). He never meant us to “go it alone.” We need each other (1 Corinthians 12).

Whether you’ve not been to church in a long time, or if you’ve not missed a Sunday in a long time, I’m glad you’re here. I hope that you find and extend a warm welcome, and that you are built up in Christ this day!

In His grip,
Pastor Decker

PRAYING FOR WISDOM & DIRECTION

Do you read and pray through the “Prayers and Praises” insert in our bulletins? I hope so. And, I hope you read and pray through ALL of it. At the top of the list are three items that haven't changed in a long time, nor will they. One of those requests is for God’s direction and protection as we serve Him. It’s the first part that I’d like to focus on today.

One verse in particular comes to mind” “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (Jam 1:5 ESV) After that, there are a couple of Psalms to consider:

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (Psa 16:11 ESV)

For you are my rock and my fortress; and for your name's sake you lead me and guide me; (Psa 31:3 ESV)

Praying for God’s wisdom, direction, and guidance fit together perfectly, don’t they? And, God has promised to give generously to those who ask. But, I wonder how often we miss God’s direction and wisdom because we’re really seeking his affirmation of our own plans. Deep down, we believe that God knows best, and we even pray that His will be done, but are we really willing to lay aside our own wills and desires, submitting them to Christ? Are we willing to consider the possibility that God’s wisdom and direction may conflict with our thoughts on any given matter? What do we do when God leads in an uncomfortable direction? I hope that we can let go and heed the words of Job 12:13; "With God are wisdom and might; he has counsel and understanding.” Are we ready and willing to follow His lead? I hope so!

In all things, I covet your prayers for God’s wisdom and direction … for me, your deacons, and all the people of Dayton Center Church!

In His grip,
Pastor Decker

A PARADIGM SHIFT FOR PETER

Paradigm: a pattern, model, or way of thinking

As I was reading Acts 10-11 this week, I was struck by how shocking the events of this passage must have been to Peter … they must have rocked his world, causing a paradigm shift.

Here was Peter, accustomed to Jewish tradition and practices, having never eaten “unclean” meat, but getting pretty hungry. Someone was preparing food, and the aromas must have intensified the longing. Suddenly, he was in a trance and seeing a vision, but it didn’t make sense. Just to make sure he got it, the vision happened three times … a sheet descending from heaven with all kinds of animals, reptiles, and birds, and the voice calling “Rise, Peter, kill and eat.” Peter’s mind instantly raced, seeing that there were unclean animals in that group, and he protested. Then, the voice came again, “What God has made clean, do not call common.”

Still Peter was perplexed. This was different than he had been taught his entire life. This was different than the convictions of everyone he knew. But, Peter would soon find out that the vision wasn’t just about food, it was about people too. Soon he would find himself ministering to, staying with, and eating with Gentiles. How could it be?!?! Just a day ago, he would never have imagined it. Yet, it was all part of God’s plan.

Peter had to adapt quickly. He had to instantly change his ingrained way of thinking. And, then, he had to defend himself against his peers. Yet, Peter broke the mold, and I’m glad he did! Because of Peter’s audacity and willingness to change, God did a mighty work in the people (Gentiles) that Cornelius had gathered together. They were saved, and the Spirit was poured out on them. The evidence that God was reaching out to the Gentiles was indisputable. Through Christ, God could and was making Gentiles clean. Further, in just a few verses, the term “Christian” was first used … and that in a Roman colony.

For Peter, it took a powerful vision and divinely ordered events to change his paradigm, and in turn, to change the world. The mission hasn’t changed, but our world has. Are there changes that need to happen to our ways of thinking so that we can and do reach the lost? What will it take for us? God, please mold us and shape us, so you can use us. Amen.

In His grip,
Pastor Decker