Pastor's Notes for Today

FORTY DAYS devoted to the Lord. Who can argue with that? Historically the emphasis during the forty days before Easter has been spiritual nurture and self-examination. New converts prepared for baptism and the congregation grew
together in grace. Some denominations emphasize dying to self by abstaining from certain foods,others emphasize a spiritual fast and feast!

FAST from judging others, FEAST on the indwelling Christ.
FAST from discontent, FEAST on gratitude.
FAST from anger, FEAST on patience.
FAST from pessimism, FEAST on optimism.
FAST from worry, FEAST on God’s care.
FAST from complaining, FEAST on appreciation.
FAST from bitterness, FEAST on forgiveness.
FAST from discouragement, FEAST on hope.
FAST from thoughts that weaken, FEAST on thoughts that inspire.
FAST from problems that overwhelm, FEAST on prayer that sustains.

How will you grow in the next 40 days?

A NEW BIBLE STUDY begins Wednesday, February 24, and will meet for the next six weeks at 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Annex, 104 Hightower. Join us.

NEWSLETTERS for February are available in the sanctuary on Sunday and in the office during the week. Please make arrangements to pick yours up at your convenience. It has your name on it.

Reflecting on the Scriptures: 40 DAYS. 40 DAYS?
Please read and meditate on the scriptures along with my comments.
Your comments are welcomed at the end of the Blog.

Luke 4:1-13. Jesus, declared Son of God, is led by the Spirit and tempted by the Devil after forty days in the desert.

Romans 10:8b-13. Confession that Jesus is Lord, heart-felt belief that God raised him from the dead and one is right with God! Think on these things for the next forty days!

Deuteronomy 26:1-11. Worship instructions were given to the Israelites as they come into the land of promise. Bring first fruits of harvest to the Lord. Hear the story of redemption and connects with it. Worship concludes with humility, reverence and community celebration.

Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16. An intimate place of refuge and protection is promised to those who choose the safety of the shadow of the Almighty. The Devil used some of these verses to tempt Jesus!

"Sometimes God puts us through the experience and discipline of darkness to teach us to hear and obey Him. Song birds are taught to sing in the dark and God put us in 'the shadow of his hand' until we learn to hear him." ~ Oswalt Chambers.

"In school we are taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you're given a test that teaches a lesson." ~ Tom Bodett