Monday, December 11, 2017
12/11-12/15 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of December 11
through December 15. Everyone is pursuing something, whether we realize it or not. The world
promises fulfillment in so many ways, yet Jesus is the only One who can
make good on that promise. When we stop seeking life in other places and
start seeking Christ, He gives us life to the full. Some of the verses referenced in this video are Matthew 16:25 and Galatians 2:20. Troy Black put together this inspirational video. What
do
you
think? Leave a comment.
12/11-12/15 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of December 11
through December 15. Ben Lionel Scott put together this short video on making an impact throughout your life. It's not just our work or learning or success, but it's about our hearts and us touching other people's hearts. What
do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Bio:
Facebook
https://facebook.com/benlionelscott
Bio:
https://facebook.com/benlionelscott
Wednesday, December 6, 2017
12/4-12/8 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of December 4
through December 8. Dr. R.C. Sproul teaches that God does not exist. What does his perspective do for your understanding of God? What
do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Dr. R.C. Sproul is founder and chairman of Ligonier Ministries, an international Christian education ministry located near Orlando, Fla. He is copastor of Saint Andrew's Chapel in Sanford, Fla., chancellor of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Ligonier Ministries began in 1971 as the Ligonier Valley Study Center in Ligonier, Pa. In an effort to respond more effectively to the growing demand for Dr. Sproul's teachings and the ministry's other educational resources, the general offices were moved to Orlando in 1984, and the ministry was renamed.
Dr. Sproul's teaching can be heard on the program Renewing Your Mind with Dr. R.C. Sproul, which is broadcast on hundreds of radio outlets in the United States and in more than forty countries worldwide. Dr. Sproul has produced more than three hundred lecture series and has recorded more than eighty video series on subjects such as the history of philosophy, theology, Bible study, apologetics, and Christian living.
He has contributed dozens of articles to national evangelical publications, has spoken at conferences, churches, and schools around the world, and has written more than ninety books, including The Holiness of God, Faith Alone, and Everyone's a Theologian. He signed the 1978 Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy and wrote a commentary on that document titled Explaining Inerrancy (now published as Can I Trust the Bible?). He also serves as general editor of The Reformation Study Bible, previously known as The New Geneva Study Bible.
Dr. Sproul was born in 1939 in Pittsburgh. He holds degrees from Westminster College, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, the Free University of Amsterdam, and Whitefield Theological Seminary, and he has had a distinguished academic teaching career at various colleges and seminaries, including Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando and Jackson, Miss. He is ordained as a teaching elder in the Presbyterian Church in America.
Bio
Dr. R.C. Sproul is founder and chairman of Ligonier Ministries, an international Christian education ministry located near Orlando, Fla. He is copastor of Saint Andrew's Chapel in Sanford, Fla., chancellor of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Ligonier Ministries began in 1971 as the Ligonier Valley Study Center in Ligonier, Pa. In an effort to respond more effectively to the growing demand for Dr. Sproul's teachings and the ministry's other educational resources, the general offices were moved to Orlando in 1984, and the ministry was renamed.
Dr. Sproul's teaching can be heard on the program Renewing Your Mind with Dr. R.C. Sproul, which is broadcast on hundreds of radio outlets in the United States and in more than forty countries worldwide. Dr. Sproul has produced more than three hundred lecture series and has recorded more than eighty video series on subjects such as the history of philosophy, theology, Bible study, apologetics, and Christian living.
He has contributed dozens of articles to national evangelical publications, has spoken at conferences, churches, and schools around the world, and has written more than ninety books, including The Holiness of God, Faith Alone, and Everyone's a Theologian. He signed the 1978 Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy and wrote a commentary on that document titled Explaining Inerrancy (now published as Can I Trust the Bible?). He also serves as general editor of The Reformation Study Bible, previously known as The New Geneva Study Bible.
Dr. Sproul was born in 1939 in Pittsburgh. He holds degrees from Westminster College, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, the Free University of Amsterdam, and Whitefield Theological Seminary, and he has had a distinguished academic teaching career at various colleges and seminaries, including Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando and Jackson, Miss. He is ordained as a teaching elder in the Presbyterian Church in America.
12/4-12/8 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of December 4
through December 8. Dr. R.C. Sproul teaches on the most distorted verse in the Bible, which is also the most popular verse in the Bible. He clarifies how this verse must not be defined as culture defines it. It is a reminder of God's deep love for us and how Jesus is the only way we are saved. Buckle up your theological seat belt. What
do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Dr. R.C. Sproul is founder and chairman of Ligonier Ministries, an international Christian education ministry located near Orlando, Fla. He is copastor of Saint Andrew's Chapel in Sanford, Fla., chancellor of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Ligonier Ministries began in 1971 as the Ligonier Valley Study Center in Ligonier, Pa. In an effort to respond more effectively to the growing demand for Dr. Sproul's teachings and the ministry's other educational resources, the general offices were moved to Orlando in 1984, and the ministry was renamed.
Dr. Sproul's teaching can be heard on the program Renewing Your Mind with Dr. R.C. Sproul, which is broadcast on hundreds of radio outlets in the United States and in more than forty countries worldwide. Dr. Sproul has produced more than three hundred lecture series and has recorded more than eighty video series on subjects such as the history of philosophy, theology, Bible study, apologetics, and Christian living.
He has contributed dozens of articles to national evangelical publications, has spoken at conferences, churches, and schools around the world, and has written more than ninety books, including The Holiness of God, Faith Alone, and Everyone's a Theologian. He signed the 1978 Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy and wrote a commentary on that document titled Explaining Inerrancy (now published as Can I Trust the Bible?). He also serves as general editor of The Reformation Study Bible, previously known as The New Geneva Study Bible.
Dr. Sproul was born in 1939 in Pittsburgh. He holds degrees from Westminster College, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, the Free University of Amsterdam, and Whitefield Theological Seminary, and he has had a distinguished academic teaching career at various colleges and seminaries, including Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando and Jackson, Miss. He is ordained as a teaching elder in the Presbyterian Church in America.
Bio
Dr. R.C. Sproul is founder and chairman of Ligonier Ministries, an international Christian education ministry located near Orlando, Fla. He is copastor of Saint Andrew's Chapel in Sanford, Fla., chancellor of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Ligonier Ministries began in 1971 as the Ligonier Valley Study Center in Ligonier, Pa. In an effort to respond more effectively to the growing demand for Dr. Sproul's teachings and the ministry's other educational resources, the general offices were moved to Orlando in 1984, and the ministry was renamed.
Dr. Sproul's teaching can be heard on the program Renewing Your Mind with Dr. R.C. Sproul, which is broadcast on hundreds of radio outlets in the United States and in more than forty countries worldwide. Dr. Sproul has produced more than three hundred lecture series and has recorded more than eighty video series on subjects such as the history of philosophy, theology, Bible study, apologetics, and Christian living.
He has contributed dozens of articles to national evangelical publications, has spoken at conferences, churches, and schools around the world, and has written more than ninety books, including The Holiness of God, Faith Alone, and Everyone's a Theologian. He signed the 1978 Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy and wrote a commentary on that document titled Explaining Inerrancy (now published as Can I Trust the Bible?). He also serves as general editor of The Reformation Study Bible, previously known as The New Geneva Study Bible.
Dr. Sproul was born in 1939 in Pittsburgh. He holds degrees from Westminster College, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, the Free University of Amsterdam, and Whitefield Theological Seminary, and he has had a distinguished academic teaching career at various colleges and seminaries, including Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando and Jackson, Miss. He is ordained as a teaching elder in the Presbyterian Church in America.
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
11/27-12/1 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of November 27
through December 1. Using beautiful images of nature and a lovely score, this mini movie
simply unspools the Apostles' Creed in a way that allows for reflection
and worship. What
do
you
think? Leave a comment.
11/27-12/1 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of November 27
through December 1. It is a wonderful collaboration of music, dance, theater, lighting, and cinematography. Lincoln Brewster plays guitar in this production called Miraculum, a special artistic Christmas presentation. What
do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Monday, November 20, 2017
11/20-11/21 Devo One
This Video is the only devotional for the week of November 20
through November 21. It is a devotional by Ken Richardson, who teaches art in both junior high and high school at VCS. The topic is about the need to maintain our Christian walk. He uses his truck as an example. What
do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Monday, November 13, 2017
11/13-11/17 Devo Two
This Video is the second devotional for the week of November 13
through November 17. It is a reflection on Psalm 23. "I'm not out here on my own. The Lord is my shepherd." Based on the
much-loved psalm, this worship mini movie encourages us to rest in the
watchful care of our loving God. What
do
you
think? Leave a comment.
11/13-11/17 Devo One
This Video is the first devotional for the week of November 13
through November 17. It is a reflection on what WORK means to you. Whether at school, home, or elsewhere, what is the reason for the work you do? What
do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Monday, November 6, 2017
11/6-11/9 Devo Two
This article is the second devotional for the week of November 6
through November 9. This is a devotional from Our Daily Bread. The
topic is "A Good Ending." The verse is from Revelation 22:1-5...God promises us a good end to the story! What
do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Click on the picture above and it will take you to the Our Daily Bread Website (you can also click here: https://odb.org/2017/11/09/a-good-ending/)
11/6-11/9 Devo One
This article is the first devotional for the week of November 6
through November 9. This is a devotional from Our Daily Bread. The topic is "Think Before You Speak." The verse is from Psalm 141: 3, “Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.” What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Click on the picture above and it will take you to the Our Daily Bread Website (you can also click here: https://odb.org/2017/11/08/think-before-you-speak/)
Tuesday, October 31, 2017
10/30-11/3 Devo Two
This article is the second devotional for the week of October 30
through November 3. This is a devotional from the book My Utmost for
His Highest by Oswald Chambers. The topic is similar to Devo One this week: The Trial of Faith. May it strengthen
you today! What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Click this link to read the devotional online: https://utmost.org/the-trial-of-faith/
We have the idea that God rewards us for our faith, and it may be
so in the initial stages. But we do not earn anything through faith—
faith brings us into the right relationship with God and gives Him His
opportunity to work. Yet God frequently has to knock the bottom out of
your experience as His saint to get you in direct contact with Himself.
God wants you to understand that it is a life of faith, not a
life of emotional enjoyment of His blessings. The beginning of your life
of faith was very narrow and intense, centered around a small amount of
experience that had as much emotion as faith in it, and it was full of
light and sweetness. Then God withdrew His conscious blessings to teach
you to “walk by faith” (2 Corinthians 5:7). And you are worth much more to Him now than you were in your days of conscious delight with your thrilling testimony.
Faith by its very nature must be tested and tried. And the real trial of faith is not that we find it difficult to trust God, but that God’s character must be proven as trustworthy in our own minds. Faith being worked out into reality must experience times of unbroken isolation. Never confuse the trial of faith with the ordinary discipline of life, because a great deal of what we call the trial of faith is the inevitable result of being alive. Faith, as the Bible teaches it, is faith in God coming against everything that contradicts Him— a faith that says, “I will remain true to God’s character whatever He may do.” The highest and the greatest expression of faith in the whole Bible is— “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him” (Job 13:15).
Faith by its very nature must be tested and tried. And the real trial of faith is not that we find it difficult to trust God, but that God’s character must be proven as trustworthy in our own minds. Faith being worked out into reality must experience times of unbroken isolation. Never confuse the trial of faith with the ordinary discipline of life, because a great deal of what we call the trial of faith is the inevitable result of being alive. Faith, as the Bible teaches it, is faith in God coming against everything that contradicts Him— a faith that says, “I will remain true to God’s character whatever He may do.” The highest and the greatest expression of faith in the whole Bible is— “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him” (Job 13:15).
10/30-11/3 Devo One
This article is the first devotional for the week of October 30
through November 3. This is a devotional from the book My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers. The topic is Faith and may it strengthen your faith. What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Click this link to read the devotional online: https://utmost.org/faith/
Faith in active opposition to common sense is mistaken enthusiasm
and narrow-mindedness, and common sense in opposition to faith
demonstrates a mistaken reliance on reason as the basis for truth. The
life of faith brings the two of these into the proper relationship.
Common sense and faith are as different from each other as the natural
life is from the spiritual, and as impulsiveness is from inspiration.
Nothing that Jesus Christ ever said is common sense, but is revelation
sense, and is complete, whereas common sense falls short. Yet faith must
be tested and tried before it becomes real in your life. “We know that
all things work together for good…” (Romans 8:28)
so that no matter what happens, the transforming power of God’s
providence transforms perfect faith into reality. Faith always works in a
personal way, because the purpose of God is to see that perfect faith
is made real in His children.
For every detail of common sense in life, there is a truth God has revealed by which we can prove in our practical experience what we believe God to be. Faith is a tremendously active principle that always puts Jesus Christ first. The life of faith says, “Lord, You have said it, it appears to be irrational, but I’m going to step out boldly, trusting in Your Word” (for example, see Matthew 6:33). Turning intellectual faith into our personal possession is always a fight, not just sometimes. God brings us into particular circumstances to educate our faith, because the nature of faith is to make the object of our faith very real to us. Until we know Jesus, God is merely a concept, and we can’t have faith in Him. But once we hear Jesus say, “He who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14:9) we immediately have something that is real, and our faith is limitless. Faith is the entire person in the right relationship with God through the power of the Spirit of Jesus Christ.
For every detail of common sense in life, there is a truth God has revealed by which we can prove in our practical experience what we believe God to be. Faith is a tremendously active principle that always puts Jesus Christ first. The life of faith says, “Lord, You have said it, it appears to be irrational, but I’m going to step out boldly, trusting in Your Word” (for example, see Matthew 6:33). Turning intellectual faith into our personal possession is always a fight, not just sometimes. God brings us into particular circumstances to educate our faith, because the nature of faith is to make the object of our faith very real to us. Until we know Jesus, God is merely a concept, and we can’t have faith in Him. But once we hear Jesus say, “He who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14:9) we immediately have something that is real, and our faith is limitless. Faith is the entire person in the right relationship with God through the power of the Spirit of Jesus Christ.
Click this link to read the devotional online: https://utmost.org/faith/
Monday, October 23, 2017
10/24-10/27 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of October 24
through October 27. This video, by Carlos Whittaker, is about How to Deal with Worry. Down to earth sharing in this somewhat random vlog, Los gives some tips and helpful Scripture for dealing with anxiety and worry. What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Bio
Los was the speaker for our Mount Hermon staff spiritual retreat and is the speaker for our Spiritual Emphasis chapels all week. Carlos Whittaker is a People’s Choice Award winner, a former recording artist signed to a major label, a social media maven, and currently spends the majority of his time writing books and speaking on stages around the world.
http://carloswhittaker.com/
Bio
Los was the speaker for our Mount Hermon staff spiritual retreat and is the speaker for our Spiritual Emphasis chapels all week. Carlos Whittaker is a People’s Choice Award winner, a former recording artist signed to a major label, a social media maven, and currently spends the majority of his time writing books and speaking on stages around the world.
http://carloswhittaker.com/
10/24-10/27 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of October 24
through October 27. This video, by Rene Schlaepfer, is about Unleashing Hope. Anxiety and depression are very real. It's not easy to talk about. It can cause all kinds of side effects and cause one to dread the future. Psalm 31 reveals the depth of dispair and also the hope of trusting in God. What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Bio
Rene Schlaepfer is the Lead Pastor of Twin Lakes Church in Aptos, CA.
https://www.facebook.com/tlcrene/
Bio
Rene Schlaepfer is the Lead Pastor of Twin Lakes Church in Aptos, CA.
https://www.facebook.com/tlcrene/
Monday, October 16, 2017
10/16-10/19 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of October 16
through October 19. This video is about praying by a girl named Ashley. Is it easy for you to talk with God daily? Here's 5 tips to help. What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Published on Feb 17, 2017
Here are my top 5 tips for praying!! Prayer can be difficult sometimes and totally has been for me too. I can read my Bible for days... but praying is sometimes a struggle! These tips totally have helped me with praying more and more recently. I hope these tips will help you pray more and more as well!
COLLAB WITH CHLOE!
CHLOE'S 4 TIPS ON PRAYER & YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hOlc...https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNqq...
MY PRAYER JOURNAL VIDEOS:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdCWj...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yeFSg...
MAKE SURE YOU SUBSCRIBE IF YOU HAVEN'T YET! We post christian inspiration and christian advice videos weekly!
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Love, Joy, and Peace,
Ashley
10/16-10/19 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of October 16
through October 19. This video is a reminder to "Love your neighbor as yourself" from Matthew 22:39. It is compelling! What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
10/9-10/13 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of October 9
through October 13. This week we focus on HOPE and resting in the Lord.
Both devotionals are songs to reflect on. This second one is a song
called My Hope Is in You, made popular by Aaron Shust. In the last few weeks, we have seen tragedy after tragedy in our nation and in the world. Sometimes things don't go as we hope they would, but let us put our hope in the Lord. There's a peace that passes understanding only found in Christ. The lyrics are below. What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Lyrics to My Hope Is in You
I worship You and my heart cries "Glory
Hallelujah, Father, You're here!"
My hope is in You, Lord, all the day long
I won't be shaken by drought or storm
My hope is in You, Lord
All the day long I won't be shaken by drought or storm
Songwriters: April Geesbreght / Ed Cash
My Hope Is In You lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Music Services, Inc
Lyrics to My Hope Is in You
I meet with You and my soul sings out
As your word throws doubt far away
I sing to You and my heart cries
"Holy! Hallelujah, Father, You're near!"
As your word throws doubt far away
I sing to You and my heart cries
"Holy! Hallelujah, Father, You're near!"
My hope is in You, Lord
All the day long, I won't be shaken by drought or storm
A peace that passes understanding is my song
And I sing my hope is in You, Lord
All the day long, I won't be shaken by drought or storm
A peace that passes understanding is my song
And I sing my hope is in You, Lord
I wait for You and my soul finds rest
In my selfishness, You show me grace
In my selfishness, You show me grace
I worship You and my heart cries "Glory
Hallelujah, Father, You're here!"
My hope is in You, Lord
All the day long I won't be shaken by drought or storm
A peace that passes understanding is my song
And I sing my hope is in You, Lord
All the day long I won't be shaken by drought or storm
A peace that passes understanding is my song
And I sing my hope is in You, Lord
I will wait on You
You are my refuge
I will wait on You
You are my refuge
You are my refuge
I will wait on You
You are my refuge
I won't be shaken by drought or storm
My hope is in You, Lord
All the day long I won't be shaken by drought or storm
A peace that passes understanding is my song
And I sing my hope is in You, Lord
My hope is in You, Lord, yeah
My hope is in You, Lord
And I sing my hope is in You, Lord
My hope is in You, Lord, yeah
My hope is in You, Lord
Songwriters: April Geesbreght / Ed Cash
My Hope Is In You lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Music Services, Inc
10/9-10/13 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of October 9
through October 13. This week we focus on HOPE and resting in the Lord. Both devotionals are songs to reflect on. This first one is a song called I Will Not Be Shaken by Tony Guerrero. Tony was a pastor at Saddleback Church and this recording is off of a Maranatha! Praise Band album. The lyrics are below. What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Lyrics to I Will Not Be Shaken
My soul finds rest in You
My fortress and my rock
My hope for life my hiding place
My refuge and my God
In You I’ve found my home
My shelter from the storm
And I’ll pour out my heart to You
And lean upon Your throne
I will put my trust in You
I will put my hope there, too
I will stand upon Your word
And I will not be shaken
I will let my praises show
Holding on to what I know
Because I know You’re always there
And I will not be shaken
I will not be shaken
I will not be moved
I’m leaning on the throne
Because You died for me
And called me to Your own
And even when the strongest winds begin to blow
I will stand my ground
I will not be moved
I will not be shaken
My soul finds rest in You
My fortress and my rock
My hope for life my hiding place
My refuge and my God
I will put my trust in You
I will put my hope there, too
I will stand upon Your word
And I will not be shaken
I will let my praises show
Holding on to what I know
Because I know You’re always there
And I will not be shaken
I will put my trust in You
I will put my hope there, too
I will stand upon Your word
And I will not be shaken
I will let my praises show
Holding on to what I know
Because I know You’re always there
And I will not be shaken
I will not be shaken
©2002 Nickeldimeus/ASCAP
Tony Guerrero
Lyrics to I Will Not Be Shaken
My soul finds rest in You
My fortress and my rock
My hope for life my hiding place
My refuge and my God
In You I’ve found my home
My shelter from the storm
And I’ll pour out my heart to You
And lean upon Your throne
I will put my trust in You
I will put my hope there, too
I will stand upon Your word
And I will not be shaken
I will let my praises show
Holding on to what I know
Because I know You’re always there
And I will not be shaken
I will not be shaken
I will not be moved
I’m leaning on the throne
Because You died for me
And called me to Your own
And even when the strongest winds begin to blow
I will stand my ground
I will not be moved
I will not be shaken
My soul finds rest in You
My fortress and my rock
My hope for life my hiding place
My refuge and my God
I will put my trust in You
I will put my hope there, too
I will stand upon Your word
And I will not be shaken
I will let my praises show
Holding on to what I know
Because I know You’re always there
And I will not be shaken
I will put my trust in You
I will put my hope there, too
I will stand upon Your word
And I will not be shaken
I will let my praises show
Holding on to what I know
Because I know You’re always there
And I will not be shaken
I will not be shaken
©2002 Nickeldimeus/ASCAP
Tony Guerrero
Wednesday, October 4, 2017
10/2-10/6 Devo Two
This is the second devotional for the week of October 2 through October 6, 2017, from Vicki Wagner.
Since I’m more comfortable with the written word than the
spoken (and especially not video!), I decided to share an idea that is
currently helping me in daily life. It’s not a new idea, I’ve done it many
times in the past, but like many devotional practices, it can get old or trite
or uninteresting, or your attention just goes somewhere else. When I discover
it all once again, I’m overwhelmed by how easy it is!
Many people have daily devotional time, in the morning, in
the evening, before bed. Some do it with families. For that quiet, personal
time, some people read the Bible, memorize verses, read an inspiration Christian
book, write in a journal, go to Bible studies, go to weekly chapel or
devotions, etc.
For the musicians in this group, especially worship leaders J, this daily devotional
may be a standard practice. For parents
in this group, you might have similar feelings about what is driving me to pull
closer to God and find more time each day for prayer.
Here’s a bit of background of where I’m coming from, before
I reveal the simple idea I use.
When I had my first son in 1987 and I became responsible for
this tiny, beautiful gift from God, I had to stop reading, watching and
listening to the news. I also cancelled my newspaper. It was just too upsetting
to think that my perfect, innocent child would have to deal with this broken
world. Even though I had a strong faith, it hurt my heart to read about all of
the trouble and then look at his happy, baby face. How could I ever explain it
all to him?
There were wars, fires, shootings, natural disasters,
political fighting people suffering, dying, crying, cheating, lying, killing…well,
being a journalism/public relations major, it was difficult because I was a
news hound. There was no internet, but I
devoured newspapers, magazines, TV and radio talk shows all my life. I studied
how to analyze, dissect, and discuss. Of course, after a baby, I had lots less
time for these things, but really, I had no stomach for it. The world was a
scary place, as I looked at it through my infant’s eyes. I wanted to live in oblivion,
in the warm, cozy, sweet place we weaved around our son and in our home, and
the bubbles we created at church, school, with family and friends.
As my boys grew up, I found the skills to discuss world and
local affairs with them, to help guide them to an understanding of their place in
the world, and how they could help by dedicating their lives to Jesus and his
teachings. We all grew together in our faith in God’s protection and love.
So gradually, we started reading the newspaper, selectively
watching the news, and discussing what we saw. Then came 9/11, and that primal
fear came back. This time, I did not shield them from anything – we saw and
talked and prayed about it all. They were in middle & high school by then.
I am proud of where my boys are in their lives now. Since
9/11, I tuned back in. I must say, this past year and a half have been
difficult for many of us. So much chaos in the political and natural realms,
it’s dizzying. Just when you think it can’t get any worse, another hurricane
hits, tweets fly, people are suffering 24-7, right on our screens, in print,
and in discussions with family and friends. Just this past weekend, the
girlfriend of my nephew was hit by a bullet in the Las Vegas tragedy. She is
still hospitalized, but will survive. It’s terrifying when it starts to hit
close to home.
But it seems I can’t look away from the chaos. Maybe I
should mute notifications of news on my cell phone and my browsers. Maybe I should impose another news blackout.
Because it hits me hard on somedays.
This time, it’s because a new life was born to my son last
March, a beautiful, innocent grandson, who looks just like his dad. That
instinct to protect came roaring back. I needed a break from news and gloom and
doom. I needed to turn my face to God.
So…I turned once again to a tried and true way to pray
daily, several times a day, whenever I’m in my car. It is so good for my soul,
because sometimes, I just can’t find the words.
I turn on Christian radio, and sing along with the songs.
Or, if I don’t know the song, I just listen with my heart. God is speaking to
me.
My favorite now is Sirius/XM “The Message,” channel 63.
Before I was fortunate enough to have that service, I’d listen to KLOVE
91.9FM. I’ve even put that on at work a
few times, with the sound low. Even if I’m not paying attention to the words,
that blessed music is pounding into my psyche and soothing the cares and fears.
It’s so easy – singing, tapping along on the morning
commute. I dedicate that time to God, and it’s like prayer. 20 minutes of
prayer in the morning, 20 minutes of prayer in the afternoon. WOW. I wasted
that time so many days, listening to bad news, fake news, oldies, alt rock,
even jazz and spa music (not that music is ever a waste!) But it’s the easiest thing in the world to
tune in to Christian music and it doesn’t take a lot of thinking of what to say
to God – just use the words others are writing and performing, and use them to
pray.
Here are the lyrics to my current favorite song, because it
sums up what I want to say to God right now. We need you, God. It’s not a new
song, it’s not a new idea. I’ve heard it a hundred times in the past. But it
really hit home a few weeks ago. It fits
so relevantly with today’s news and chaos. It’s an awesome prayer.
Casting Crowns (2009)
Hear our cry, Lord we pray,
Our faces down, our hands are raised,
You called us out, we turned away, we've turned away.
Our faces down, our hands are raised,
You called us out, we turned away, we've turned away.
With ship wrecked faith, idols rise,
We do what is right, in our own eyes,
Our children now, will pay the price,
We need Your light, Lord, shine Your light.
We do what is right, in our own eyes,
Our children now, will pay the price,
We need Your light, Lord, shine Your light.
If we've ever needed You, Lord, it's now, Lord, it's now,
We are desperate for Your hand, we're reachin' out, we're reachin' out.
We are desperate for Your hand, we're reachin' out, we're reachin' out.
All our hearts, all our strength,
With all our minds, we're at Your fate,
May Your Kingdom come, in our hearts and lives,
Let Your Church arise, let Your Church arise!
With all our minds, we're at Your fate,
May Your Kingdom come, in our hearts and lives,
Let Your Church arise, let Your Church arise!
If we've ever needed You, Lord, it's now, Lord, it's now,
We are desperate for Your hand, we're reachin' out, we're reachin' out, we're reachin' out
We are desperate for Your hand, we're reachin' out, we're reachin' out, we're reachin' out
If we've ever needed You, Lord, it's now, Lord, it's now,
We are desperate for Your hand, we're reachin' out, we're reachin' out,
If we've ever needed You, Lord, it's now, Lord, it's now,
We are desperate for Your hand, we're reachin' out, we're reachin' out
We are desperate for Your hand, we're reachin' out, we're reachin' out,
If we've ever needed You, Lord, it's now, Lord, it's now,
We are desperate for Your hand, we're reachin' out, we're reachin' out
We need You now
Revive us now
We need You now
Revive us now
We need You now
There’s even a cool video of this song.
Like I said – this isn’t new. Many of you contribute
musically to your church, your school, your family. It’s worship practice. But
this proved to be easy for me, and sometimes I just put my playlist on wherever
I am. It’s filled with songs like this, along with some Coates, Wolfe, Vitchev,
and VCJazz Ensemble mixed in!
One more share - I saw this poem recently in a Facebook post
by a friend. As Adrian said in his devotional last week – listen to the quiet
sounds around you – it’s God’s voice. It’s your spirit.
I now use this as a prayer.
When we can’t find the
Words to express our
Needs, feelings, thoughts
Or depth of desperation,
The Holy Spirit is
present to help us.
When we don’t know how to pray,
The Spirit intercedes
for us
With sighs too deep
for words.
~ ELCA Prayer Ventures adapted from Romans 8:26
I hope this writing might help some of you, and I look
forward to your sharing of your ideas/routines/devotions in a future post here
on this Conservatory Devotions site.
Thank you,
Vicki
Monday, October 2, 2017
10/2-10/6 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of October 2
through October 6. This video is a devotional by Adrian Roman, one our new teachers. Elijah went through some tough times, but God gives him some good insights. What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
9/25 - 9/29 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of September 25
through September 29. Celebrities were asked if they believe in GOD….THIS WAS THEIR ANSWER! You may question where their faith really, but it's good to see many speaking positively about God and Jesus. What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
9/25 - 9/29 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of September 25
through September 29. This video, by Troy Black, is a reminder of God's love that covers the worst in us. The better we look on the outside, the easier it is for us to think that
we have somehow deserved the love of God. Romans 5:8 says, "But God
demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners,
Christ died for us." It's not about us being more righteous on our own.
It's about us taking on the righteousness of God through faith in His
Son, Jesus Christ. What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Wednesday, September 13, 2017
9/11-9/15 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of September 11
through September 15. This video is an encouraging devotional by The Daily Bread. "We’re all in this together . . . this race called life. So don’t run
alone. And don’t run too fast or you’ll miss opportunities to be the
hands and feet of Jesus. There’s joy in the journey so run interrupted,
intentionally, and generously. Let us run together." What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
BIO
Daily Bread online has a YouTube channel with a number of encouraging videos for daily inspiration.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmoPSaYFVw7IuQJPc1KCQvw
BIO
Daily Bread online has a YouTube channel with a number of encouraging videos for daily inspiration.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmoPSaYFVw7IuQJPc1KCQvw
Sunday, September 10, 2017
9/11-9/15 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of September 11
through September 15. This video is an encouraging devotional by John Piper about John 15:5 where Jesus says, "apart from me, you can do nothing." What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
This three-minute video is the first of a series of short devotional videos. The devotion is one of 365 Solid Joys devotions authored by John Piper, one for each day of the year. You can read the devotional for the video above, “We Can Do Nothing,” or read today’s Solid Joys devotional, all available free of charge.
http://www.desiringgod.org/we-can-do-nothing
BIO
John Piper (@JohnPiper) is founder and teacher of desiringGod.org and chancellor of Bethlehem College & Seminary. For 33 years, he served as pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church, Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is author of more than 50 books, including Reading the Bible Supernaturally. He wrote the book Desiring God.
This three-minute video is the first of a series of short devotional videos. The devotion is one of 365 Solid Joys devotions authored by John Piper, one for each day of the year. You can read the devotional for the video above, “We Can Do Nothing,” or read today’s Solid Joys devotional, all available free of charge.
http://www.desiringgod.org/we-can-do-nothing
BIO
John Piper (@JohnPiper) is founder and teacher of desiringGod.org and chancellor of Bethlehem College & Seminary. For 33 years, he served as pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church, Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is author of more than 50 books, including Reading the Bible Supernaturally. He wrote the book Desiring God.
Monday, September 4, 2017
9/7-9/10 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of September 7 through September 10. This video is about the church as family. At Valley Christian Schools, we are to be involved in a church body. Every church has some similarities and differences. Francis shares his heart about why he left his megachurch and some helpful insights about what "church" should really be about. I hope it is encouraging for you! What do you think? Leave a comment.
BIO
Francis
Chan is an American preacher. He is the former teaching pastor of
Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley, California, a church he and
his wife started in 1994. One of his books is Crazy Love. Wikipedia
9/7-9/10 Devo One
This reading is the first devotional for the week of September 7
through September 10. This reading is by a friend of mine, Doug Stevens, who was the pastor of Hillside Covenant Church in Walnut Creek, when I first met him years ago. Now, he is a Transitions Pastor who helps churches going through transitions as an Interim. This reading is a reflection on what he went through recently as he was visiting a church. He posted this touching story on Facebook this Monday (Click here to go directly to his facebook post).
Both Devo One and Devo Two this week are focusing on the church, specifically authenticity and relationships. What do you think? Leave a comment.
Both Devo One and Devo Two this week are focusing on the church, specifically authenticity and relationships. What do you think? Leave a comment.
The Davio Factor
I was there in my coaching role, hoping to help a church in the Seattle area rekindle its fire. There was no apparent crisis --- there was simply and sadly a lack of passion, and purpose.
People were not entirely pleased with their pastor --- who was not entirely pleased with himself. He was open to new ideas (that’s why he invited me to come) but wasn’t sure about the direction he should take or the changes he should be making. The relationship of pastor with elders could be generously described as détente.
The church was in a funk. Nothing terrible going on, nothing much exciting happening either. A lot like many established churches in so many places in suburban America. Sometimes it seems like we are just going through the motions, not really expecting much to happen when we gather on Sunday mornings … but remaining mostly pleasant if mainly bored. It’s what we do.
The service began, the sanctuary was about half-full, and it was already beginning to drag. I sat close to the front, wanting to remain anonymous, intending to soak up the atmosphere. There wasn’t much.
We sang alternating hymns and praise songs, snapped off the liturgy, and settled in for the sermon. It was more like enduring than listening. I really do like this pastor, we’ve had some honest conversations. But he’s not enjoying church right now --- and that shows.
Mercifully, the sermon was shorter than I expected, and we were winding down toward some sort of finale. I was thinking about lunch.
In this church they take the offering at the end of the service, and the music director got up to direct this part. He stood on the floor below the platform and began to introduce the special music that would be presented while the offering was taken. And that shouldn’t take long. I was wrong.
The music director looked extraordinarily cheerful I thought, considering we were at the end of the ordeal. Now, I’m being too harsh, it wasn’t that bad, it was just terribly dull. It was almost over and we hadn’t connected yet --- with God, with the people leading us, with each other, with anything that was happening (or not happening).
“For the offertory this morning, I’ve asked a new friend that I just met to sing a song that he has written.” This almost sounds interesting, I thought. I wonder what’s coming.
I had noticed him. I knew it must be him. He was sitting in the front row. And I was certain he wasn’t a regular. He was way too engaged --- even with the sermon. And he couldn’t sit still or stand in one place during the music. He bounced. My awareness was mostly subliminal, but I was curious about him … even a little concerned.
The introduction continued. “I was walking out of the grocery store yesterday and passed a man who was selling the homeless newspaper. He asked me for a dollar. I asked him why I should buy his paper and he told me that he would sing a song for me if I did. I said OK … and prepared for the worst.” The music director paused for a moment and some of us quietly chuckled.
“He began to sing … and it was beautiful. So I invited him to come to church today and sing his song. His name is Davio. Please welcome him.” Polite applause followed.
I was right. The man I had been watching slowly got up and turned around, revealing an enormous smile. A sight seldom seen in this church.
There was something about him. Something out of place, to be sure, but something almost irresistible, right away. There was something about his countenance, his lack of inhibition. Clearly he didn’t know where he was and he didn’t know the rules.
“Before I sing, I want to tell you my story,” he began. Standing tall and reed thin, maybe 60 years old, exuding a distinctive dignity combined with an intriguing (and somewhat alarming) earthiness, his unexpected presence compelled rows of hibernating parishioners to lean slightly forward.
“A couple of years ago, my life was really sweet. I was married to a wonderful woman, had a great job, owned a comfortable home, had my health, had it made.
But my wife died suddenly. I lost the love of my life.
Then I was at work one day and got a call from a neighbor telling me that my house was burning. By the time I got home, there was almost nothing left. I moved in with a friend temporarily until I could rebuild.
The next month I had a heart attack and couldn’t go to work for awhile.
Soon after I got a call from my boss who told me that they couldn’t hold my job unless I could set a date to return. At that point, I couldn’t. He said he was very sorry.
Finally, my friend told me that he could no longer accommodate me in his home. I had nowhere to go and no job to support me. Even if I got well, I was going to become homeless.”
We were all riveted by now. We forgot the lateness of the hour, we forgot where we were, we couldn’t believe what we were hearing, we couldn’t imagine that this man was in our church --- taking over church. This was way too much reality for church. But it got worse --- which means it got better.
“I didn’t know what to do,” he said. “So, one day I got up and walked down to the liquor store and bought a fifth of vodka. I took the bottle with me and hiked up to the railroad tracks on a berm out back of a strip mall. I sat down on the rail and drank the whole bottle. Before long I laid down right there and waited to die. What a blessing. A train would come and I was too drunk to move, even if I wanted to.”
We were all mesmerized by his words. By the depth of his pain. By the fact that he was here in church telling us all this.
“I should be dead,” he said. He paused, recalled the agony, and sighed deeply. “But I heard a voice. It was the voice of a little girl crying out. The voice said ‘Mister, mister, please help me. I’m lost. Please help me!’”
“I said ‘Go away, I can’t help you.’ And waved my hand. I didn’t even open my eyes to look around. I felt sick. I was so tired. Too tired to move.”
“But she kept calling out to me. I didn’t answer her again but somehow she found me, took my hand, lifted me up on my feet, I don’t know how, and walked me down to the parking lot behind another store. The sun was blinding me and I had to stop. She stood next to me, this little girl, couldn’t have been more than 7 years old, still holding my hand.”
“Then her mother came out of the store, shouting for her daughter. ‘I’m over here Mommy! I got lost and this nice man found me.’”
“Her mother thanked me and walked off with her daughter, leaving me alone and confused, with a splitting headache. All I could do was thank God for sending me an angel and saving my life that day.
And so I wrote this song in my head as I walked home. I’d like to sing it for you now.”
He began. And something happened to every one of us in that room. Because something was happening to him. As he sang in a soul-stirring tenor range about the day he came back to life, a torrent of tears poured down his cheeks. He made no effort to suppress the flow. It was incredibly moving, and all of us were melting.
The impromptu a cappella performance was impressive, but the spirit of the man was totally disarming. We were all spellbound and defenseless against this spectacle of salvation. When he finished, the unnerved congregation sat in stunned silence, except for the sound of muffled sobbing.
“I hoped you liked it,” he said. “I’ve written some more songs and I want to record them. If I make any money it will go to help the homeless. I’m doing well now but so many are not. That’s why I stand outside the grocery store every Saturday and sell the paper. God is taking real good care of me but so many are suffering …”
The pastor came down the steps and interrupted Davio in mid-sentence. He put his arm around our unexpected guest, embracing him with a grimace, and politely thanked him for his music. It was obvious the pastor was trying to close the service since we were running late. Who knew how much more testimony we might get … and how much more we needed to hear.
But the man who had invaded our sanctuary with his story and his song did not object. He put his arm around the pastor’s waist in return and rested his head softly on his shoulder, and spoke no more.
This rarely happens, but at that moment I started to tremble. It was a moment suspended in time. A glimpse of heaven on earth. It felt like church as I once imagined it … the church I still long for.
Afterwards I sat down over lunch with the pastor who was perplexed by what we had just witnessed at the end of the service and uncertain as to what it meant. “From now on,” I said, “we’re going to refer to this as the Davio Factor. Let’s unleash it.” I waited for a response but got none, so I continued.
“That was a blast of authenticity … so rare, so disruptive, so necessary.” I’m searching for words, trying to penetrate the indifference I seem to be getting. “This was an outburst of pure passion, an expression of the Gospel of Jesus that hit everyone in that room right in the heart. And we’ll never be the same.”
“So, do we bring him back?” the pastor wondered out loud.
“Of course, you do! But what I hope you don’t miss is where he brought us this morning. It wasn’t church as usual --- and never should be again! Even though his story is unique, his awakening to God’s grace is an invitation to all of us to share our stories without censoring or shame --- that will draw us to the mercy that meets us in places of great need, and even greater miracles.”
He looked at me like … “What are you talking about?!” Like … “How would we plan a worship service around that?!”
We continued in our conversation for a long time. Because it takes a long time and a new paradigm to debrief a heavy dose of God’s Presence. It is mysterious yet obvious. And cannot be programmed, but only anticipated and received and embraced. When love breaks through, you don’t want to miss it.
This volley of love brings us back to life, wakes us up, defies our low expectations and overwhelms our well-practiced defenses. Upending our pride and restoring our identity as beloved sons and daughters. How do we prepare for it, discern its overtures and effects, stop neglecting and deflecting and blocking it?
Davio knows. And so do you and I when we dare to take God at his word and let this love have its wonderful, powerful, unsettling way in our anxious lives, in our sadness, in our tragedies, in our complacencies, in the uncertainties of our everyday world.
Are you ready for church?
Doug Stevens
The Renewal Project
Austin, TX
I was there in my coaching role, hoping to help a church in the Seattle area rekindle its fire. There was no apparent crisis --- there was simply and sadly a lack of passion, and purpose.
People were not entirely pleased with their pastor --- who was not entirely pleased with himself. He was open to new ideas (that’s why he invited me to come) but wasn’t sure about the direction he should take or the changes he should be making. The relationship of pastor with elders could be generously described as détente.
The church was in a funk. Nothing terrible going on, nothing much exciting happening either. A lot like many established churches in so many places in suburban America. Sometimes it seems like we are just going through the motions, not really expecting much to happen when we gather on Sunday mornings … but remaining mostly pleasant if mainly bored. It’s what we do.
The service began, the sanctuary was about half-full, and it was already beginning to drag. I sat close to the front, wanting to remain anonymous, intending to soak up the atmosphere. There wasn’t much.
We sang alternating hymns and praise songs, snapped off the liturgy, and settled in for the sermon. It was more like enduring than listening. I really do like this pastor, we’ve had some honest conversations. But he’s not enjoying church right now --- and that shows.
Mercifully, the sermon was shorter than I expected, and we were winding down toward some sort of finale. I was thinking about lunch.
In this church they take the offering at the end of the service, and the music director got up to direct this part. He stood on the floor below the platform and began to introduce the special music that would be presented while the offering was taken. And that shouldn’t take long. I was wrong.
The music director looked extraordinarily cheerful I thought, considering we were at the end of the ordeal. Now, I’m being too harsh, it wasn’t that bad, it was just terribly dull. It was almost over and we hadn’t connected yet --- with God, with the people leading us, with each other, with anything that was happening (or not happening).
“For the offertory this morning, I’ve asked a new friend that I just met to sing a song that he has written.” This almost sounds interesting, I thought. I wonder what’s coming.
I had noticed him. I knew it must be him. He was sitting in the front row. And I was certain he wasn’t a regular. He was way too engaged --- even with the sermon. And he couldn’t sit still or stand in one place during the music. He bounced. My awareness was mostly subliminal, but I was curious about him … even a little concerned.
The introduction continued. “I was walking out of the grocery store yesterday and passed a man who was selling the homeless newspaper. He asked me for a dollar. I asked him why I should buy his paper and he told me that he would sing a song for me if I did. I said OK … and prepared for the worst.” The music director paused for a moment and some of us quietly chuckled.
“He began to sing … and it was beautiful. So I invited him to come to church today and sing his song. His name is Davio. Please welcome him.” Polite applause followed.
I was right. The man I had been watching slowly got up and turned around, revealing an enormous smile. A sight seldom seen in this church.
There was something about him. Something out of place, to be sure, but something almost irresistible, right away. There was something about his countenance, his lack of inhibition. Clearly he didn’t know where he was and he didn’t know the rules.
“Before I sing, I want to tell you my story,” he began. Standing tall and reed thin, maybe 60 years old, exuding a distinctive dignity combined with an intriguing (and somewhat alarming) earthiness, his unexpected presence compelled rows of hibernating parishioners to lean slightly forward.
“A couple of years ago, my life was really sweet. I was married to a wonderful woman, had a great job, owned a comfortable home, had my health, had it made.
But my wife died suddenly. I lost the love of my life.
Then I was at work one day and got a call from a neighbor telling me that my house was burning. By the time I got home, there was almost nothing left. I moved in with a friend temporarily until I could rebuild.
The next month I had a heart attack and couldn’t go to work for awhile.
Soon after I got a call from my boss who told me that they couldn’t hold my job unless I could set a date to return. At that point, I couldn’t. He said he was very sorry.
Finally, my friend told me that he could no longer accommodate me in his home. I had nowhere to go and no job to support me. Even if I got well, I was going to become homeless.”
We were all riveted by now. We forgot the lateness of the hour, we forgot where we were, we couldn’t believe what we were hearing, we couldn’t imagine that this man was in our church --- taking over church. This was way too much reality for church. But it got worse --- which means it got better.
“I didn’t know what to do,” he said. “So, one day I got up and walked down to the liquor store and bought a fifth of vodka. I took the bottle with me and hiked up to the railroad tracks on a berm out back of a strip mall. I sat down on the rail and drank the whole bottle. Before long I laid down right there and waited to die. What a blessing. A train would come and I was too drunk to move, even if I wanted to.”
We were all mesmerized by his words. By the depth of his pain. By the fact that he was here in church telling us all this.
“I should be dead,” he said. He paused, recalled the agony, and sighed deeply. “But I heard a voice. It was the voice of a little girl crying out. The voice said ‘Mister, mister, please help me. I’m lost. Please help me!’”
“I said ‘Go away, I can’t help you.’ And waved my hand. I didn’t even open my eyes to look around. I felt sick. I was so tired. Too tired to move.”
“But she kept calling out to me. I didn’t answer her again but somehow she found me, took my hand, lifted me up on my feet, I don’t know how, and walked me down to the parking lot behind another store. The sun was blinding me and I had to stop. She stood next to me, this little girl, couldn’t have been more than 7 years old, still holding my hand.”
“Then her mother came out of the store, shouting for her daughter. ‘I’m over here Mommy! I got lost and this nice man found me.’”
“Her mother thanked me and walked off with her daughter, leaving me alone and confused, with a splitting headache. All I could do was thank God for sending me an angel and saving my life that day.
And so I wrote this song in my head as I walked home. I’d like to sing it for you now.”
He began. And something happened to every one of us in that room. Because something was happening to him. As he sang in a soul-stirring tenor range about the day he came back to life, a torrent of tears poured down his cheeks. He made no effort to suppress the flow. It was incredibly moving, and all of us were melting.
The impromptu a cappella performance was impressive, but the spirit of the man was totally disarming. We were all spellbound and defenseless against this spectacle of salvation. When he finished, the unnerved congregation sat in stunned silence, except for the sound of muffled sobbing.
“I hoped you liked it,” he said. “I’ve written some more songs and I want to record them. If I make any money it will go to help the homeless. I’m doing well now but so many are not. That’s why I stand outside the grocery store every Saturday and sell the paper. God is taking real good care of me but so many are suffering …”
The pastor came down the steps and interrupted Davio in mid-sentence. He put his arm around our unexpected guest, embracing him with a grimace, and politely thanked him for his music. It was obvious the pastor was trying to close the service since we were running late. Who knew how much more testimony we might get … and how much more we needed to hear.
But the man who had invaded our sanctuary with his story and his song did not object. He put his arm around the pastor’s waist in return and rested his head softly on his shoulder, and spoke no more.
This rarely happens, but at that moment I started to tremble. It was a moment suspended in time. A glimpse of heaven on earth. It felt like church as I once imagined it … the church I still long for.
Afterwards I sat down over lunch with the pastor who was perplexed by what we had just witnessed at the end of the service and uncertain as to what it meant. “From now on,” I said, “we’re going to refer to this as the Davio Factor. Let’s unleash it.” I waited for a response but got none, so I continued.
“That was a blast of authenticity … so rare, so disruptive, so necessary.” I’m searching for words, trying to penetrate the indifference I seem to be getting. “This was an outburst of pure passion, an expression of the Gospel of Jesus that hit everyone in that room right in the heart. And we’ll never be the same.”
“So, do we bring him back?” the pastor wondered out loud.
“Of course, you do! But what I hope you don’t miss is where he brought us this morning. It wasn’t church as usual --- and never should be again! Even though his story is unique, his awakening to God’s grace is an invitation to all of us to share our stories without censoring or shame --- that will draw us to the mercy that meets us in places of great need, and even greater miracles.”
He looked at me like … “What are you talking about?!” Like … “How would we plan a worship service around that?!”
We continued in our conversation for a long time. Because it takes a long time and a new paradigm to debrief a heavy dose of God’s Presence. It is mysterious yet obvious. And cannot be programmed, but only anticipated and received and embraced. When love breaks through, you don’t want to miss it.
This volley of love brings us back to life, wakes us up, defies our low expectations and overwhelms our well-practiced defenses. Upending our pride and restoring our identity as beloved sons and daughters. How do we prepare for it, discern its overtures and effects, stop neglecting and deflecting and blocking it?
Davio knows. And so do you and I when we dare to take God at his word and let this love have its wonderful, powerful, unsettling way in our anxious lives, in our sadness, in our tragedies, in our complacencies, in the uncertainties of our everyday world.
Are you ready for church?
Doug Stevens
The Renewal Project
Austin, TX
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
8/28-9/1 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of August 28 through September 1. This video is a devotional by Ivan Utomo. He shares a very difficult experience that his wife, Grace, went through in December and an encouraging Bible passage. What do you think? Leave a comment.
Ivan Utomo is our newest music faculty in the Conservatory of the Arts. He comes with a wealth of experience in piano, music theory, percussion, and music in general.
Monday, August 28, 2017
8/28-9/1 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of August 28
through September 1. This video is a music video of the group Oceans of
Grace from Chile who will be with us in chapel this Wednesday. The
song is called How Great You Are. Use this song as a meditation on our great God! What do
you
think? Leave a comment.
Some lyrics:
"My heart is stirred by a pleasing theme
as I recite my verses for the King
And oh how great You are
And I will not forget, how great You are
Your throne, oh Lord, is forever and ever"
BIO
We are Oceans of Grace, a bilingual worship band originally from Chile. We believe Worship transcends culture, and we want to let God use our talents to reach and bless people across the nations. We invite you to join us in supporting this vision that uses music as a means to be a blessing to others. http://www.oceansofgraceband.com/
"My heart is stirred by a pleasing theme
as I recite my verses for the King
And oh how great You are
And I will not forget, how great You are
Your throne, oh Lord, is forever and ever"
BIO
We are Oceans of Grace, a bilingual worship band originally from Chile. We believe Worship transcends culture, and we want to let God use our talents to reach and bless people across the nations. We invite you to join us in supporting this vision that uses music as a means to be a blessing to others. http://www.oceansofgraceband.com/
Monday, August 21, 2017
8/21-8/25 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of August 21 through August 25. This video is a devotional by Jill Carlson. She shares an encouraging Bible verse and commentary by Joyce Meyer. What do you think? Leave a comment.
Jill Carlson is the K-12 Director of Visual Arts at VCS.
8/21-8/25 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of August 21 through August 25. This video is an introduction to the Conservatory Devotions by Reggie Coates. He explains what they are about, gives his testimony, and shares his favorite Bible verse. What do you think? Leave a comment.
BIO
Reggie teaches guitar, worship leading, and music technology. He is also the Executive Director of Heartfelt Music Ministry.
Tuesday, April 25, 2017
5/1-5/5 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of May 1 through May 5. During this week, we are looking at a couple of testimonies of people in other religions coming to Christ. This video is a testimony of a Jewish man who grew in curiosity about Jesus and ultimately began following Jesus as Messiah. What do you think? Leave a comment.
BIO
This video was put up in 2015 by One for Israel Ministry
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQDc5idYQE2T6IYKT3bUN7A
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQDc5idYQE2T6IYKT3bUN7A
5/1-5/5 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of May 1 through May 5. During this week, we are looking at a couple of testimonies of people in other religions coming to Christ. This video is a testimony of a Muslim woman who was so depressed, she wanted to kill herself. Reluctantly, she gave Jesus one week to prove himself. What do you think? Leave a comment.
BIO
This video was put up in 2015 by The Endless Love of Jesus Ministries
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyKcAF-T_1veT0srqy3racg
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyKcAF-T_1veT0srqy3racg
Tuesday, April 11, 2017
4/10-4/13 Live Devotional Attendance
Lily Homer will offer "live" devotions in
the Conservatory Chapel on Thursdays the second half of
lunch time. If she is not in the chapel, come to her office to find her. In order to keep a record of who attends these
"live"
devotions for credit, we will be listing who attended here.
Faculty do not need to comment here.
4/10-4/13 Devo One
This video is the only devotional for the week of April 10 through April 13. This video has an encouraging message from Keith Green around 35 years ago during a concert. A passionate appeal to the modern church to rise from the ashes of current trends and do what Christ commanded. A timeless message from one of God's most influential messengers. What do you think? Leave a comment.
BIO
Keith Gordon Green (October 21, 1953 – July 28, 1982) was an American contemporary Christian music pianist, singer and songwriter originally from Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, New York. Beyond his music, Green is best known for his strong devotion to Christian evangelism and challenging others to the same. Wikipedia
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
4/3-4/7 Live Devotional Attendance
Lily Homer will offer "live" devotions in
the Conservatory Chapel on Thursdays the second half of
lunch time. If she is not in the chapel, come to her office to find her. In order to keep a record of who attends these
"live"
devotions for credit, we will be listing who attended here.
Faculty do not need to comment here.
4/3-4/7 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of April 3 through April 7. This video is about Worship. "Open the Sky, heaven's shining!" I hope this song is an encouragement for you. Use the time listening to allow God's light to shine in you. This video is by a group from Indonesia called True Worshippers. What do you think? Leave a comment.
BIO
4/3-4/7 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of April 3 through April 7. This video is about Worship. "You and I were made to worship" is the chorus of this song by Chris Tomlin. Digest the words and reflect on how this inspires you. What do you think? Leave a comment.
BIO
Christopher
Dwayne Tomlin is an American contemporary Christian music artist,
worship leader, and songwriter from Grand Saline, Texas, United States
who has sold nearly 30 million records. Wikipedia
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
3/20-3/24 Live Devotional Attendance
Lily Homer will offer "live" devotions in
the Conservatory Chapel on Thursdays the second half of
lunch time. If she is not in the chapel, come to her office to find her. In order to keep a record of who attends these
"live"
devotions for credit, we will be listing who attended here.
Faculty do not need to comment here.
3/20-3/24 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of March 20 through March 24. This video is about Contentment. The Secret to Contentment by Melissa Kruger. Melissa made a guest appearance on the 700 Club Interactive talking about The Secret to Contentment. Her book The Envy of Eve: Finding Contentment in a Covetous World is published by Christian Focus Publications. She has some great comments that are helpful to ponder. What do you think? Leave a comment.
BIO
Christian Focus Publications
3/20-3/24 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of March 20 through March 24. This video is about Peace. "Not as the World Gives" is a short Christian film about finding peace by Eden Ministry. We can all struggle everyday with the pressures and frustrations that can make life a struggle, but if we make time for Jesus then all of these wordly problems are put into a new perspective. What do you think? Leave a comment.
BIO
Eden Ministry is a Christian media company that does short films.
Monday, March 13, 2017
3/13-3/17 Live Devotional Attendance
Lily Homer will offer "live" devotions in
the Conservatory Chapel on Thursdays the second half of
lunch time. If she is not in the chapel, come to her office to find her. In order to keep a record of who attends these
"live"
devotions for credit, we will be listing who attended here.
Faculty do not need to comment here.
3/13-3/17 Devo Two
This video is the second devotional for the week of March 13 through March 17. This video, by John Ortberg, is about Community. We were created for community. What do you think? Leave a comment.
BIO
John Ortberg, Jr. is an evangelical Christian author, speaker, and senior pastor of Menlo Park Presbyterian Church in Menlo Park, California, an evangelical church with more than 4,000 members. Wikipedia. His website is at http://www.johnortberg.com/.
3/13-3/17 Devo One
This video is the first devotional for the week of March 13 through March 17. This video is about Endurance. The Christian Walk Requires Endurance by John Ortberg. You can choose between the despair of a brief mortal existence or hope in Jesus Christ. What do you think? Leave a comment.
BIO
John
Ortberg, Jr. is an evangelical Christian author, speaker, and senior
pastor of Menlo Park Presbyterian Church in Menlo Park, California, an
evangelical church with more than 4,000 members. Wikipedia. His website is at http://www.johnortberg.com/.
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