Blog https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org Tue, 19 Mar 2024 04:56:45 -0400 http://churchplantmedia.com/ Thoughts and thoughts https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/thoughts-and-thoughts- https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/thoughts-and-thoughts-#comments Thu, 25 Jan 2024 17:00:00 -0500 https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/thoughts-and-thoughts-  

As most of you know, LeeAnn and I recently returned from a Caribbean cruise celebrating an early wedding anniversary.  One of the things that we packed, in addition to our Bibles, was the Church Directory.  During our time at sea, each of your names was read on board the ship, and you were uplifted before the Throne of Grace. We prayed for you and asked the Lord to continue richly blessing your lives. 

The theme chosen for this year is ENABLING KINGDOM GROWTH. There are two components to this theme:

Spiritual growth and Numerical growth.  I do not know the extent of your spiritual growth.  Only God knows.  The Bible talks about individuals on the milk and some are chewing on the meat.  Wherever you are on that continuum, we invite you to grow.  One aspect of spiritual growth has to do with feeding on the Word of God.  To that end, we have encouraged all of you to read the totality of Scripture this year.

Another element to our theme has to do with numerical growth. Hopefully, as we grow spiritually, we will understand the importance of sharing the Gospel message of Jesus Christ with others. Hence, numerical growth should automatically follow.  Jesus gives us His directive in the GREAT COMMISSION found in Matthew 28:19-20.

 “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you…” 

 SHARE JESUS

 

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As most of you know, LeeAnn and I recently returned from a Caribbean cruise celebrating an early wedding anniversary.  One of the things that we packed, in addition to our Bibles, was the Church Directory.  During our time at sea, each of your names was read on board the ship, and you were uplifted before the Throne of Grace. We prayed for you and asked the Lord to continue richly blessing your lives. 

The theme chosen for this year is ENABLING KINGDOM GROWTH. There are two components to this theme:

Spiritual growth and Numerical growth.  I do not know the extent of your spiritual growth.  Only God knows.  The Bible talks about individuals on the milk and some are chewing on the meat.  Wherever you are on that continuum, we invite you to grow.  One aspect of spiritual growth has to do with feeding on the Word of God.  To that end, we have encouraged all of you to read the totality of Scripture this year.

Another element to our theme has to do with numerical growth. Hopefully, as we grow spiritually, we will understand the importance of sharing the Gospel message of Jesus Christ with others. Hence, numerical growth should automatically follow.  Jesus gives us His directive in the GREAT COMMISSION found in Matthew 28:19-20.

 “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you…” 

 SHARE JESUS

 

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From The Elders... Fellowship https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/from-the-elders-fellowship- https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/from-the-elders-fellowship-#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2024 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/from-the-elders-fellowship- Fellowship

“They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” - Acts 2:46

What exactly do we mean by “fellowship?”  One scholar explains, “Christian fellowship is not the sentimental and superficial attachment of a random collection of individuals, but the profoundly mutual relationship of those who remain in Christ, and therefore belong to each other.” In other words, fellowship is not an easy task!  It requires time and commitment.  And it cannot truly happen outside of Christ.

Today Christians around the world gather together for worship and fellowship.  Sunday is a day when people of every age, culture, nation, and race gather as brothers and sisters in Christ.

From the beginning, all who are redeemed in Christ have gathered to celebrate.  The first church gathered in people's homes for fellowship.  Acts 2:42 says that these believers were devoted "to the fellowship"--to each other.  They gathered joyfully and sincerely, filled with gladness.  There was laughter and song.  People came into the fellowship not out of a sense of obligation or fear but out of a desire to be with fellow believers.

These people were genuine.  They were open and honest about their lives and their hearts.  We read that they sold their possessions to help meet the needs of those who were hurting.  Not only were some people willing to give, but others were willing to receive.

Often pride prevents us from accepting the help of others.  We are afraid that others might think less of us if we need help.  Yet this should not be the case in the church.  True fellowship exists when people can be open and honest about their struggles and their needs.  God invites us to experience such fellowship ourselves in communities of faith where believers are deeply devoted to each other's welfare.

Jesus, we long for the day when our fellowship mirrors the perfect community You have with Your Father and the Spirit.  Help us build true fellowship within our churches.   Amen.

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Fellowship

“They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” - Acts 2:46

What exactly do we mean by “fellowship?”  One scholar explains, “Christian fellowship is not the sentimental and superficial attachment of a random collection of individuals, but the profoundly mutual relationship of those who remain in Christ, and therefore belong to each other.” In other words, fellowship is not an easy task!  It requires time and commitment.  And it cannot truly happen outside of Christ.

Today Christians around the world gather together for worship and fellowship.  Sunday is a day when people of every age, culture, nation, and race gather as brothers and sisters in Christ.

From the beginning, all who are redeemed in Christ have gathered to celebrate.  The first church gathered in people's homes for fellowship.  Acts 2:42 says that these believers were devoted "to the fellowship"--to each other.  They gathered joyfully and sincerely, filled with gladness.  There was laughter and song.  People came into the fellowship not out of a sense of obligation or fear but out of a desire to be with fellow believers.

These people were genuine.  They were open and honest about their lives and their hearts.  We read that they sold their possessions to help meet the needs of those who were hurting.  Not only were some people willing to give, but others were willing to receive.

Often pride prevents us from accepting the help of others.  We are afraid that others might think less of us if we need help.  Yet this should not be the case in the church.  True fellowship exists when people can be open and honest about their struggles and their needs.  God invites us to experience such fellowship ourselves in communities of faith where believers are deeply devoted to each other's welfare.

Jesus, we long for the day when our fellowship mirrors the perfect community You have with Your Father and the Spirit.  Help us build true fellowship within our churches.   Amen.

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Proclaiming His Salvation https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/proclaiming-his-salvation https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/proclaiming-his-salvation#comments Thu, 11 Jan 2024 14:00:00 -0500 https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/proclaiming-his-salvation  

"Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, praise His name; proclaim His salvation day after day.  Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples.  For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise;He is to be feared above all gods.  For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the Lord made the heavens.  Splendor and majesty are before Him; strength and glory are in His sanctuary.  Ascribe to the Lord, all you families of nations, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.  Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name; bring an offering and come into His courts.  Worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness; tremble before Him, all the earth." - Psalm 96:1-9

In his book titled “The Songs of Jesus,”  Timothy Keller states that Psalm 96 shows us that worship is to be done “among the nations.” (verse 3)   Verse 2 says that as we worship we are “proclaiming His salvation” – literally bearing tidings of Good News.  There is no better way to show skeptics the greatness of God and the beauty of His truth than through worship. (verses 4-9)   Our worship is to be compelling to nonbelievers; that is “a corrective to static worship and shallow preaching alike” and dynamic worship is not just a means to winning the world but it also provides our motivation to do so.  Only a heart filled with overflowing joy will want to share the source of that joy with everyone they meet.  If you had the cure for cancer, would you keep it a secret?  Worship propels us into the world to serve and love. 

With a new year upon us, start now with a deliberate desire to approach and grow closer to the Lord.  May your understanding of the Lord’s grace grow until it rids you of the self-consciousness, lethargy, and pessimism that keep you from publicly proclaiming Jesus as our Lord and Savior. 

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"Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, praise His name; proclaim His salvation day after day.  Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples.  For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise;He is to be feared above all gods.  For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the Lord made the heavens.  Splendor and majesty are before Him; strength and glory are in His sanctuary.  Ascribe to the Lord, all you families of nations, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.  Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name; bring an offering and come into His courts.  Worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness; tremble before Him, all the earth." - Psalm 96:1-9

In his book titled “The Songs of Jesus,”  Timothy Keller states that Psalm 96 shows us that worship is to be done “among the nations.” (verse 3)   Verse 2 says that as we worship we are “proclaiming His salvation” – literally bearing tidings of Good News.  There is no better way to show skeptics the greatness of God and the beauty of His truth than through worship. (verses 4-9)   Our worship is to be compelling to nonbelievers; that is “a corrective to static worship and shallow preaching alike” and dynamic worship is not just a means to winning the world but it also provides our motivation to do so.  Only a heart filled with overflowing joy will want to share the source of that joy with everyone they meet.  If you had the cure for cancer, would you keep it a secret?  Worship propels us into the world to serve and love. 

With a new year upon us, start now with a deliberate desire to approach and grow closer to the Lord.  May your understanding of the Lord’s grace grow until it rids you of the self-consciousness, lethargy, and pessimism that keep you from publicly proclaiming Jesus as our Lord and Savior. 

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Just A Thought: Darkness https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/just-a-thought--darkness- https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/just-a-thought--darkness-#comments Thu, 04 Jan 2024 11:00:00 -0500 https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/just-a-thought--darkness- For Christmas one year I got a B-B gun.  I loved it… opened the upstairs window and started shooting at everything that I thought was “shootable.”   Of course my parents said “be careful” – RIGHT!  After a bit, I kinda ran out of things to shoot at and I spotted a street light in front of the house… it was too tempting… I destroyed it.  Jesus forgave me – my Dad did not.  He reported me!   Funny thing!  I never saw that gun again.  My Dad never said a thing about it but it was gone.  The other thing that was dumb is that I didn’t like the dark… now every night it was dark in front of our house.

Were you ever afraid of the dark?  I was when I was younger.  When Mary and I moved to Fenton we got a whole house Generator so that we would always have power.  I like it!   I’m not big on being a pioneer. Darkness... I’m not a fan!  Darkness has a quality that we humans instinctively dislike.  In Scripture it represents evil itself.   We’re promised that in the world to come we will have no need for the sun because Jesus, “the Light of the World,” will provide the light and “it will never be night there.” (Revelations 21:23–25)   But what about today?  What about the darkness that’s pervading our world right now?  The confusion - the anger and inner rage - political gridlock - disrespect for law and order - religious persecution.  Sometimes it’s overwhelming.  We live in a society that loves to call good evil and evil good.  And then there’s what David famously called “the valley of the shadow of death.” (Psalm 23:4 ESV)  Your own death or the loss of a loved one.  WOW!

Into this dark world of confusion and death comes a God who is Pure Light. Psalm 139:12 says; “Even the darkness is not dark to You.  The night shines like the day; darkness and light are alike to You.”  This is the hope we have.  As followers of Christ - who is the Light of the World - we have been made “children of Ligh.t” (John 12:35-36)  United to Christ, we too are light in this dark world. (Matthew 5:14; John 8:12)  Whatever may await us in the unknown of the future cannot defeat us.  Christ is risen!
We walk in resurrected light!  Martin Luther’s hymn ‘A Mighty Fortress’ encourages us.

“The Prince of Darkness, grim, we tremble not for him.
The body he may kill, God’s truth abideth still.
One little Word shall fell him.”

Walk in the LIGHT

Tom

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For Christmas one year I got a B-B gun.  I loved it… opened the upstairs window and started shooting at everything that I thought was “shootable.”   Of course my parents said “be careful” – RIGHT!  After a bit, I kinda ran out of things to shoot at and I spotted a street light in front of the house… it was too tempting… I destroyed it.  Jesus forgave me – my Dad did not.  He reported me!   Funny thing!  I never saw that gun again.  My Dad never said a thing about it but it was gone.  The other thing that was dumb is that I didn’t like the dark… now every night it was dark in front of our house.

Were you ever afraid of the dark?  I was when I was younger.  When Mary and I moved to Fenton we got a whole house Generator so that we would always have power.  I like it!   I’m not big on being a pioneer. Darkness... I’m not a fan!  Darkness has a quality that we humans instinctively dislike.  In Scripture it represents evil itself.   We’re promised that in the world to come we will have no need for the sun because Jesus, “the Light of the World,” will provide the light and “it will never be night there.” (Revelations 21:23–25)   But what about today?  What about the darkness that’s pervading our world right now?  The confusion - the anger and inner rage - political gridlock - disrespect for law and order - religious persecution.  Sometimes it’s overwhelming.  We live in a society that loves to call good evil and evil good.  And then there’s what David famously called “the valley of the shadow of death.” (Psalm 23:4 ESV)  Your own death or the loss of a loved one.  WOW!

Into this dark world of confusion and death comes a God who is Pure Light. Psalm 139:12 says; “Even the darkness is not dark to You.  The night shines like the day; darkness and light are alike to You.”  This is the hope we have.  As followers of Christ - who is the Light of the World - we have been made “children of Ligh.t” (John 12:35-36)  United to Christ, we too are light in this dark world. (Matthew 5:14; John 8:12)  Whatever may await us in the unknown of the future cannot defeat us.  Christ is risen!
We walk in resurrected light!  Martin Luther’s hymn ‘A Mighty Fortress’ encourages us.

“The Prince of Darkness, grim, we tremble not for him.
The body he may kill, God’s truth abideth still.
One little Word shall fell him.”

Walk in the LIGHT

Tom

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LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEW YEAR https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/-looking-forward-to-the-new-year https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/-looking-forward-to-the-new-year#comments Fri, 29 Dec 2023 13:00:00 -0500 https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/-looking-forward-to-the-new-year  

LeeAnn and I hope all of you had a Merry Christmas and are looking forward to a Blessed New Year.  As we close the door on 2023, may each of us thank the Lord for the most precious gift He has given us - JESUS.  Question for us…what gift did we give the Lord this Christmas?  Hopefully, we would say, OURSELVES, and that your hearts resonate with mine by asking; "LORD, HOW CAN I BE MORE EFFECTIVE FOR THE KINGDOM WORK IN 2024?" 

I do not know about you, but I think that the New Year is a very special time.  There is a sense of renewed energy, rekindled spirit, renewed commitment and dedication.  For some it is starting over and putting the past behind, and learning from mistakes.  For others it is a brand new beginning. 

We cannot change the past, but, we can learn from it.  We can appreciate, rejoice, and be thankful as we are told in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Romans 8:28, and Ephesians 5:20.

The New Year might mean a time of reflection, planning, personal inventory, anticipation, and commitment.  Perhaps one of the best words to describe the new year is "renewal."   

A Scripture dealing with renewal includes 2 Corinthians 5:17.  “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”  Upon surrendering our lives to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, we are made "whole."  We are made "new."  The individual is given a new lease on life.  With that new lease on life, let us be found faithful in sharing the Gospel message with others. 

Each of us has been given a brand-new year.  Let us remember that only those things done for, and in the name of, Christ will last.  Are we going to invest our time, effort, energies, and financial resources this year in those things that will count for eternity?

 

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LeeAnn and I hope all of you had a Merry Christmas and are looking forward to a Blessed New Year.  As we close the door on 2023, may each of us thank the Lord for the most precious gift He has given us - JESUS.  Question for us…what gift did we give the Lord this Christmas?  Hopefully, we would say, OURSELVES, and that your hearts resonate with mine by asking; "LORD, HOW CAN I BE MORE EFFECTIVE FOR THE KINGDOM WORK IN 2024?" 

I do not know about you, but I think that the New Year is a very special time.  There is a sense of renewed energy, rekindled spirit, renewed commitment and dedication.  For some it is starting over and putting the past behind, and learning from mistakes.  For others it is a brand new beginning. 

We cannot change the past, but, we can learn from it.  We can appreciate, rejoice, and be thankful as we are told in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Romans 8:28, and Ephesians 5:20.

The New Year might mean a time of reflection, planning, personal inventory, anticipation, and commitment.  Perhaps one of the best words to describe the new year is "renewal."   

A Scripture dealing with renewal includes 2 Corinthians 5:17.  “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”  Upon surrendering our lives to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, we are made "whole."  We are made "new."  The individual is given a new lease on life.  With that new lease on life, let us be found faithful in sharing the Gospel message with others. 

Each of us has been given a brand-new year.  Let us remember that only those things done for, and in the name of, Christ will last.  Are we going to invest our time, effort, energies, and financial resources this year in those things that will count for eternity?

 

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It Had To Be Love https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/it-had-to-be-love- https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/it-had-to-be-love-#comments Thu, 21 Dec 2023 20:00:00 -0500 https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/it-had-to-be-love- IT HAD TO BE LOVE

Today is the fourth Sunday of Advent. The theme is LOVE, which runs through the Bible as a scarlet thread from Genesis to Revelation. The word “LOVE” is mentioned 574 times in the NIV Bible.


What does “love” mean to you?  If you are like me, you do not tell the people you love, often enough…that you love them.  It is one of my regrets.  I am trying to do a better job in this area of my life.  I believe that all of us like to hear the words: I LOVE YOU and YOU ARE LOVED.


Several years ago, a young lady in one of my classes told me that she was distressed. She said that no one loved her.  I asked these questions.  "How many people have you told lately that you love them?"  "Have you told your Mom, Dad, Brother(s), and Sister(s) that you loved them?"  I challenged her to go home and tell them that she loved them and share her results with me.  Upon entering class the next day, she had a smile on her face and was very happy.  She said, “Mr. Lowery, you were right, everyone loves me.”


When LeeAnn and I were dating, I remember telling her in my letters, phone calls, and when we were together that I loved her.  Now, 55 years later, it seems that I take this simple phrase for granted, and I do not utter it as frequently as I used to. That needs
to change on my part.  She needs to hear it and I need to say it. 


As we celebrate Christmas, we need to remember God’s love and the reason Jesus came.  John 3:16 (kjv) says: "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have
everlasting life."


I invite you to read 1 Corinthians 13 which is often called the LOVE CHAPTER of the Bible.  Also digest Mark 12:30-31.


MERRY CHRISTMAS,  Galen

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IT HAD TO BE LOVE

Today is the fourth Sunday of Advent. The theme is LOVE, which runs through the Bible as a scarlet thread from Genesis to Revelation. The word “LOVE” is mentioned 574 times in the NIV Bible.


What does “love” mean to you?  If you are like me, you do not tell the people you love, often enough…that you love them.  It is one of my regrets.  I am trying to do a better job in this area of my life.  I believe that all of us like to hear the words: I LOVE YOU and YOU ARE LOVED.


Several years ago, a young lady in one of my classes told me that she was distressed. She said that no one loved her.  I asked these questions.  "How many people have you told lately that you love them?"  "Have you told your Mom, Dad, Brother(s), and Sister(s) that you loved them?"  I challenged her to go home and tell them that she loved them and share her results with me.  Upon entering class the next day, she had a smile on her face and was very happy.  She said, “Mr. Lowery, you were right, everyone loves me.”


When LeeAnn and I were dating, I remember telling her in my letters, phone calls, and when we were together that I loved her.  Now, 55 years later, it seems that I take this simple phrase for granted, and I do not utter it as frequently as I used to. That needs
to change on my part.  She needs to hear it and I need to say it. 


As we celebrate Christmas, we need to remember God’s love and the reason Jesus came.  John 3:16 (kjv) says: "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have
everlasting life."


I invite you to read 1 Corinthians 13 which is often called the LOVE CHAPTER of the Bible.  Also digest Mark 12:30-31.


MERRY CHRISTMAS,  Galen

]]>
From The Elders... Joy https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/from-the-elders-joy- https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/from-the-elders-joy-#comments Thu, 14 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/from-the-elders-joy- There is so much comfort to be found in the practice of pausing to read, pray, and reflect over the course of the Advent season in which believers eagerly anticipate the celebration of Christ’s birth.  The third Sunday of Advent gives us the opportunity to prepare in our hearts a sense of holy anticipation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus as well as for His promised second coming.  We can study the Scriptures as a reminder of the ways God has been faithful to us through the fulfillment of prophecy -and find hope in the promises of God that are laid out in his Word.

This third Sunday of Advent we read, pray, and reflect on the joy that God’s plan gives us (foretold by the prophets and fulfilled by the life and death of Christ), and we meditate on the promise of Christ’s coming glory-filled return.  We are invited to reflect on the joy we have access to because of our faith in Jesus.  A time for us to rejoice because Jesus came and died so that we may live forever with Him!  One of the defining characteristics of Christ-followers is their joyful demeanor.  Let’s not allow the struggles of this year steal from the great joy we have because of Jesus.

Philippians 4:4-5 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.”

Psalm 51:12 says, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.” 

Luke 2:10-11 says, “But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.”

The good news of Jesus’ arrival brings such joy to our world!  God’s Word can reach those who are lost and searching, with the message of hope that we have through the Messiah.  As you go about the Advent season, let the message of great joy pierce through all the noise.

A Personal Prayer of Joy for each WHBC family:  "Lord, would you restore the joy of our salvation?  Help us to be willing to follow You with all we have.  As we read the Scriptures that remind us who You are and the ways You love us, ignite in us a sense of joy that overflows out of our hearts!  Let this holy joy be contagious and spill over onto the lives of those around us.  May Your peace that surpasses all understanding be upon us...especially as we're wrapping up a year that has felt very scary and uncertain. Encourage our hearts with the knowledge that with You we can live in Your perfect peace, no matter our circumstances.  We thank You for the joy and peace You give!" Amen.

During this Advent, pray that the joy of the Lord would be evident in your heart and home.  May God’s spirit transform the days leading up to Christmas into a time of holy anticipation; preparing our hearts, as we joyfully await the chance to celebrate the arrival of our King. – The Elders.

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There is so much comfort to be found in the practice of pausing to read, pray, and reflect over the course of the Advent season in which believers eagerly anticipate the celebration of Christ’s birth.  The third Sunday of Advent gives us the opportunity to prepare in our hearts a sense of holy anticipation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus as well as for His promised second coming.  We can study the Scriptures as a reminder of the ways God has been faithful to us through the fulfillment of prophecy -and find hope in the promises of God that are laid out in his Word.

This third Sunday of Advent we read, pray, and reflect on the joy that God’s plan gives us (foretold by the prophets and fulfilled by the life and death of Christ), and we meditate on the promise of Christ’s coming glory-filled return.  We are invited to reflect on the joy we have access to because of our faith in Jesus.  A time for us to rejoice because Jesus came and died so that we may live forever with Him!  One of the defining characteristics of Christ-followers is their joyful demeanor.  Let’s not allow the struggles of this year steal from the great joy we have because of Jesus.

Philippians 4:4-5 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.”

Psalm 51:12 says, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.” 

Luke 2:10-11 says, “But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.”

The good news of Jesus’ arrival brings such joy to our world!  God’s Word can reach those who are lost and searching, with the message of hope that we have through the Messiah.  As you go about the Advent season, let the message of great joy pierce through all the noise.

A Personal Prayer of Joy for each WHBC family:  "Lord, would you restore the joy of our salvation?  Help us to be willing to follow You with all we have.  As we read the Scriptures that remind us who You are and the ways You love us, ignite in us a sense of joy that overflows out of our hearts!  Let this holy joy be contagious and spill over onto the lives of those around us.  May Your peace that surpasses all understanding be upon us...especially as we're wrapping up a year that has felt very scary and uncertain. Encourage our hearts with the knowledge that with You we can live in Your perfect peace, no matter our circumstances.  We thank You for the joy and peace You give!" Amen.

During this Advent, pray that the joy of the Lord would be evident in your heart and home.  May God’s spirit transform the days leading up to Christmas into a time of holy anticipation; preparing our hearts, as we joyfully await the chance to celebrate the arrival of our King. – The Elders.

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From The Elders... Peace https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/from-the-elders- https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/from-the-elders-#comments Thu, 07 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/from-the-elders- Isaiah 40:3-5“A voice of one calling: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.’”

After a chaotic year, there is comfort to be found when we pause to read, pray, and reflect over the course of the Advent season...a time when we eagerly anticipate the celebration of Christ’s birth.

The second Sunday of Advent provides for us the peace of God.  Allowing us to look at others through heaven’s eyes and help guide the world to see God’s here and not-yet here kingdom.  Peace from God, Biblical peace, allows us to trust in God’s promises (Proverbs 3:5; "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding"), through restful, tranquil faith, despite the dark, scary world around us.  The second Sunday of Advent gives us the opportunity to prepare our hearts in faithful waiting, celebrate the birth of Jesus, and ready ourselves for his second coming.

It's a beautiful chance to reflect on the ways prophecy has been fulfilled and to ponder what the future (promised to us through prophecies) will bring.

Psalm 46:10-11 says:  ..."Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

This week, we pause to remember who God is and what He has done for us. When our lives are hurried, we only have the chance to focus on our to-do lists. Making space in our schedules for prayer and meditation helps us to better see God at work in our lives and in our world.

As we prepare our hearts for the celebration of Jesus’ arrival as a gift to all humanity, let’s stir up in our hearts and homes a sense of anticipation.  May God’s spirit transform the days leading up to Christmas into a time of holy anticipation; preparing our hearts, as we faithfully await the chance to celebrate the arrival of our King.

May we look to our Heavenly Father who gives us peace.  This second week of Advent causes us to remember that because of Jesus we can experience a Christmas free from turmoil and chaos. Regardless of our circumstances or our situations, God offers us peace that passes understanding. 

May God keep you in perfect peace as your mind is stayed on the truth of His powerful love. 

– The Elders.

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Isaiah 40:3-5“A voice of one calling: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.’”

After a chaotic year, there is comfort to be found when we pause to read, pray, and reflect over the course of the Advent season...a time when we eagerly anticipate the celebration of Christ’s birth.

The second Sunday of Advent provides for us the peace of God.  Allowing us to look at others through heaven’s eyes and help guide the world to see God’s here and not-yet here kingdom.  Peace from God, Biblical peace, allows us to trust in God’s promises (Proverbs 3:5; "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding"), through restful, tranquil faith, despite the dark, scary world around us.  The second Sunday of Advent gives us the opportunity to prepare our hearts in faithful waiting, celebrate the birth of Jesus, and ready ourselves for his second coming.

It's a beautiful chance to reflect on the ways prophecy has been fulfilled and to ponder what the future (promised to us through prophecies) will bring.

Psalm 46:10-11 says:  ..."Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

This week, we pause to remember who God is and what He has done for us. When our lives are hurried, we only have the chance to focus on our to-do lists. Making space in our schedules for prayer and meditation helps us to better see God at work in our lives and in our world.

As we prepare our hearts for the celebration of Jesus’ arrival as a gift to all humanity, let’s stir up in our hearts and homes a sense of anticipation.  May God’s spirit transform the days leading up to Christmas into a time of holy anticipation; preparing our hearts, as we faithfully await the chance to celebrate the arrival of our King.

May we look to our Heavenly Father who gives us peace.  This second week of Advent causes us to remember that because of Jesus we can experience a Christmas free from turmoil and chaos. Regardless of our circumstances or our situations, God offers us peace that passes understanding. 

May God keep you in perfect peace as your mind is stayed on the truth of His powerful love. 

– The Elders.

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Advent... https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/advent https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/advent#comments Thu, 30 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0500 https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/advent What do you think of when you hear the word “ADVENT?” Today is the first Sunday of Advent.  Advent is a period of four Sundays before Christmas.  Advent comes from the Latin word “adventus” which means “coming.”  The history of Advent dates back to the 4th century and has been observed by Christians worldwide ever since.  We celebrate the first coming of Jesus as a baby in Bethlehem.  We call it Christmas. 

Advent is one of my favorite times of the year.  It is a season of hope, joy, peace, love, and light, which are the traditional themes for Advent.

Sometimes, I get my priorities out of focus at this time of the year.  Too often I think of the number of shopping days left before Christmas and the number of gifts I need to
purchase.  What can I get that would be meaningful and lasting for someone?  Buying gifts is a challenge for me.  Then there are meals, cleaning up the house, and other
preparations for the festivities of the Season.

WDGW? Those initials stand for: WHAT DOES GOD WANT?  That is a more important question and focus for reflection this Advent season.  The Lord wants each of us to
spend eternity with Him.  The Bible says that He is “not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9)  And, for the Christ-Follower,
Jesus makes it clear in Matthew 6:33 that we are to “seek first His Kingdom and His Righteousness.”

In addition, the Lord wants us to focus on LOVE.  He wants us to love Him with our total being and to love others as ourselves.  Scripture is filled with His desires for us.

This Advent season let us focus on the REASON for the SEASON: JESUS.  And, the REASON He came is for YOU and I.  Let us share the Good News with others.
Galen

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What do you think of when you hear the word “ADVENT?” Today is the first Sunday of Advent.  Advent is a period of four Sundays before Christmas.  Advent comes from the Latin word “adventus” which means “coming.”  The history of Advent dates back to the 4th century and has been observed by Christians worldwide ever since.  We celebrate the first coming of Jesus as a baby in Bethlehem.  We call it Christmas. 

Advent is one of my favorite times of the year.  It is a season of hope, joy, peace, love, and light, which are the traditional themes for Advent.

Sometimes, I get my priorities out of focus at this time of the year.  Too often I think of the number of shopping days left before Christmas and the number of gifts I need to
purchase.  What can I get that would be meaningful and lasting for someone?  Buying gifts is a challenge for me.  Then there are meals, cleaning up the house, and other
preparations for the festivities of the Season.

WDGW? Those initials stand for: WHAT DOES GOD WANT?  That is a more important question and focus for reflection this Advent season.  The Lord wants each of us to
spend eternity with Him.  The Bible says that He is “not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9)  And, for the Christ-Follower,
Jesus makes it clear in Matthew 6:33 that we are to “seek first His Kingdom and His Righteousness.”

In addition, the Lord wants us to focus on LOVE.  He wants us to love Him with our total being and to love others as ourselves.  Scripture is filled with His desires for us.

This Advent season let us focus on the REASON for the SEASON: JESUS.  And, the REASON He came is for YOU and I.  Let us share the Good News with others.
Galen

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From The Elders... Building the House https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/from-the-elders-building-the-house- https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/from-the-elders-building-the-house-#comments Thu, 23 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0500 https://www.westhighlandbaptistchurch.org/blog/post/from-the-elders-building-the-house- "On this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it."                                                                                                               - Matthew 16:18

Bill Crowder, Daily Bread Ministries, talks about building God’s church. 

In 1889, the most ambitious private home construction project in the United States began.  On-site manufacturing produced some 32,000 bricks a day.  The work continued until the completion of George Vanderbilt II’s “summer house” - six years later. The result was the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. To this day, it remains the largest private residence in America, with 250 rooms (including 35 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms) consuming a staggering 178,926 square feet (16,226 square meters) of floor space.

This project, ambitious as it was, was nothing compared to the “building” intentions Jesus proclaimed to His disciples in Matthew 16.  After Peter had confirmed that Jesus is “the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (verse 16), Jesus declared, “I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My Church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” (verse 18)  While theologians debate the identity of the “rock,” there’s no debate about Jesus’ intentions.  He would build His church to stretch to the ends of the earth (Matthew 28:19–20), including people from every nation and ethnic group from around the globe. (Revelation 5:9)

The cost of this building project?  The sacrifice of Jesus’ own blood on the cross. (Acts 20:28)  As members of His “building,” (Ephesians 2:21) purchased at so great a price, may we celebrate His loving sacrifice and join Him in this great mission.

Our West Highland family is part of God’s building – may we keep our eyes on Him. - Tracy

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"On this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it."                                                                                                               - Matthew 16:18

Bill Crowder, Daily Bread Ministries, talks about building God’s church. 

In 1889, the most ambitious private home construction project in the United States began.  On-site manufacturing produced some 32,000 bricks a day.  The work continued until the completion of George Vanderbilt II’s “summer house” - six years later. The result was the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. To this day, it remains the largest private residence in America, with 250 rooms (including 35 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms) consuming a staggering 178,926 square feet (16,226 square meters) of floor space.

This project, ambitious as it was, was nothing compared to the “building” intentions Jesus proclaimed to His disciples in Matthew 16.  After Peter had confirmed that Jesus is “the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (verse 16), Jesus declared, “I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My Church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” (verse 18)  While theologians debate the identity of the “rock,” there’s no debate about Jesus’ intentions.  He would build His church to stretch to the ends of the earth (Matthew 28:19–20), including people from every nation and ethnic group from around the globe. (Revelation 5:9)

The cost of this building project?  The sacrifice of Jesus’ own blood on the cross. (Acts 20:28)  As members of His “building,” (Ephesians 2:21) purchased at so great a price, may we celebrate His loving sacrifice and join Him in this great mission.

Our West Highland family is part of God’s building – may we keep our eyes on Him. - Tracy

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