Pentecost Sunday

Today is Pentecost Sunday.

By Pastor Frank Wyatt

Just prior to Jesus’ ascension into heaven, He gave the disciples a mission unlike anything they could ever have imagined. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you..” (Matthew 28:19-20)
These were not men with great learning, wealth, power or influence. NO...God was calling everyday working people to reach the entire world with the Gospel.
How could they possibly do it? Just seven fishermen, a tax collector, one member of a radical Jewish group, and two more plus a handful of followers were given the mission of reaching the world for Jesus.
But, God had more to say. Luke adds the word that would meet the need of their weakness, inability, and lack of resources. Jesus said it, “Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; BUT tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” (Luke 24)
Jesus not only commissioned them with a task, BUT assured them of all the power and resources they would need. In Acts 1:8, He spoke again “...you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem and all Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the earth.”
The Greek word translated “power” in both passages is “dunamis” from which we get the word dynamite. To the Jew, it meant strength and power that radiated from the majesty, splendor and glory of God. It was tied to the power that emanated from the ark of the Covenant, like the cloud of glory that surrounded the presence of God. Dunamis also means the power to perform miracles, moral power and the power that leads to limitless resources. Everything the Church would need.
So the disciples went to Jerusalem and waited in the Upper Room. Pentecost came and the power that Jesus had spoken of was poured out on the people in that room. Everything changed. The Church was born and the Gospel of Jesus exploded across the city and everyone there heard it and understood it in their own language.
But God had more! At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came and instead of coming “upon” men and women momentarily as He had in the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit filled them and dwelt in them and empowered them.
NO LONGER was the message for Jews only, but all men from every nation, every culture, every time. NO LONGER priests only, but now the Spirit of God was poured out to fill and dwell in all flesh, men, women and children, young and old, rich and poor, educated and uneducated. No one was excluded.
AND AS IT WAS IN JERUSALEM, SO IT IS TODAY! Nothing has changed and it will not change until the Second Coming of Christ. The power of the Holy Spirit is the key to the Church completing the commission given by Jesus. The Church CANNOT be the Church Jesus intended without the abiding, empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. And any group that would diminish, ignore or quench the active ministry of the Holy Spirit might be filled with good, loving, caring people BUT is totally foreign to the New Testament’s concept of the Church and the Kingdom of God on earth.
BOTTOM LINE...we can have our hearts broken on a regular basis when we see our sin before God and we can come to the altar and “re-dedicate” our lives to God every Sunday, YET we will not be able to live lives of victory over the world, the flesh and the devil without experiencing the power of the Holy Spirit. WE will NEVER overcome the flesh, except by the power of the Holy Spirit.
PENTECOST was and is a powerful testimony to the transforming power of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.
This same Holy Spirit is the only hope for the world today. The problems of this world will not be met by Church councils and committees, human kindness and social activism or political legislation alone. The demonic powers that are consuming our society will not be overcome by anything short of the power of the Holy Spirit.
We have been given a mission and that mission will be successful only through the power of the mission giver, Jesus Christ AND it will only be successful when we receive, embrace and walk out the full “Jesus”experience of Acts 1:8 in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Beautiful Instrumental Hymns, Peaceful Music, Piano & Flute "Holy Holy H...

Beautiful Instrumental Hymns, Peaceful Music, Piano & Flute "Holy Holy H...

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound - David Doering | Pan flute | Flauta ...

Have you ever wondered who you are?

                       LIVELY  STONES

Here is a picture of sand magnified many times using a high powered microscope. 

All pictures are granted permission to use by Dr. Gary Greenberg www.sandgrains.com 

                                                                  Beachwalk

Without fail, the sound of waves and seagulls minister a deep peace to my soul. The colorful tritones of turquoises and blues in the water are like embracing an old friend. Listen, can you hear the waves? Can you smell the salty spray? Have you ever looked closely at the sand and noticed how they sparkle in the sun? 

Who are you, O Child of God? Why, you are Lively Stones that are all cut, formed and shaped to the perfection of Christ. You have many designs, colors and textures and you have been selected to shine for my glory!

All those tiny grains of sand came from the north flowing through various kinds of mountains, rivers and sifting through creeks, waterfalls and finally into the ocean. Once there, the fish continue designing each and every stone. Not one stone appears to be alike.  

“That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies;” Genesis 22:17 kjv

“For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed and heirs to the promise.” 

Galatians 3:26-29 kjv

The Living Stone and a Chosen People

“As you come to Him, The Living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to Him you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says:

See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.

Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe,

The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone, and

A stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.

They stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for. But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 1Peter 2:4-10 niv

Who am I? You ask.

Indeed, you are called many things. You are called The People of God, Lively Stones, The Children of God, You are a Temple built without hands, The Church without bricks, The Bride of Christ, Ambassadors of Christ, Chosen, Spiritual Heirs, Gentiles converted, Sons of God, Family of God, Sons of light, Children of the day, God’s Sheep, Adopted, Heirs to the Kingdom, The Body of Christ, The Bride of Christ, Saints, Believers, The Redeemed and we are Believers called Christians.  

 There are many other titles. We are salt and light!  We were once the children, not yet born so that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of Him that calls us. Ro. 9:11

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” John 14:6

We pray:

Heavenly Father,

We give thanks for each Living Stone that continues to build your Temple within themselves and together. We give thanks for your Holy Spirit that resides in each of us. We give thanks that you have fashioned each one of us differently and you have given us the freedom to be who you have called us to be, in your flock; for you have made us, for your glory. We strive to bring you glory and be your good pleasure. We ask that you would give those who are searching for your truth, the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of  your Son Jesus. We ask that their eyes would be enlightened and that they would know what the hope of His calling and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, And what the exceeding greatness of His power to us who believe. We know this is according to the working of His mighty power. For we know O Father when Christ was raised from the dead, You set Him at your right hand in heavenly places. We know this is far from all principality and power, and might, dominion, and that every name that is named, not only in this world but also in that which is to come, for he has put all things under his feet, and gave Jesus to be the head over all things to the church. Thank you for our Savior Jesus, the Cornerstone of our Temple. Thank you for your never ending mercies and love. Thank you for designing us to be your living stones. Thank you for Your precious Holy Spirit who teaches and watches over us day and night. In Your Son Jesus we pray. Amen. 

Chain Breaker, You are Holy - Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir

Passion 2020 - Ravi Zacharias

"You'll Never Walk Alone" Virtual Choir/Orchestra 15 Countries: 300 People

Damaged Souls

          Damaged Souls

One of the most heartwarming sights ever to behold in a hospital, is in the pediatric department. Robed in pink and blue the babies slumber. They are a gift from God and are born desiring love. Just ahead, the world lies wait, for them to learn just as we did, by walking their whole life through the festive memories that made them laugh, but also times of caution, tiptoeing through fearful times in darkness, sometimes with the cruelty of abandonment, physical and verbal abuse. When a baby is born into such times of fearful insecurity, they ask: “Why didn’t they love me?  Wasn’t I a pretty baby? A good baby? What was wrong with me? Why did they do that? Why didn’t someone help me? Rescue me? Why didn’t someone care?”

Our questions seem to be like an ensign that hangs endlessly into space. Our delicate souls became damaged. 

For some, many are helpless to move past their anger and cannot think straight. Here is your hope. Our deepest wounds may stay buried, but over time God’s Spirit is working inside healing our traumas by His love. 

There is your answer. Your healing will come by His love. Sound too simple? It is God who created you, exactly the way He wanted you. God doesn’t make mistakes. Your eyes are more beautiful than you realize. Your hair is numbered just enough to lay perfectly. Your body was designed by His hand. Just as the baby is a gift, you are still a gift. Your soul; that place of decisions, feelings and personality must now strive to accept the magnitude of God’s love into your life.  Within 350 million people, not one person will be alike! There is no one else like you on the face of the earth! You are significant! A promise! Not one person can take your place! His Spirit created us: 

1. In love   
2. By love  
3. Through love, because 
4. He is love!

You might ask, “Why would a loving God allow this to happen to me?” I say, “Why are there people on earth walking around who have never worn shoes, who eat only rice and drink muddy water?” “Why are people still sacrificing babies?” “Why do people say one thing, then do another?”

If you did not walk in the mud and get dirty, how would you know how it feels to be clean when the rain comes? If we received a life free from wounds, testings and problems, how could we ever become strong in Christ? How would we understand the difference? How could we give mercy, unless we ourselves have experienced it? When we ask God for mercy, do we see the mercy He has already given to us? Can you see what He  has already brought you through? Thankful hearts are not born within the little babies we coo and hold. Deep thankful hearts are developed by being without! Thankful hearts are established by going to war.  By experiencing the flip side of goodness. By meager beginnings. We become humble. In Christ we are given respect, honor and deep deep love; we have a humble, overwhelming abundance of thankfulness and love in our hearts. We know the difference being without Christ and being in Christ. In Christ, our thankful hearts mold our minds into His character, into His will, by His Spirit of love. This is our journey. This is our calling. 

We are called, Vessels of Mercy. Concentrate upon helping and praying for those who are struggling. Meditate upon God’s powerful love in your life. Though our souls became damaged, it is by the love of Christ that heals all our wounds! His Spirit will enable you to forgive all those who have harmed you. Magnify His love in your life in every area.

Let’s pray Psalm 103

Heavenly Father,

Our soul blesses you this morning and your Holy name. We will not forget all of your benefits. You forgive all of our sins and heal us from all of our diseases. You truly have redeemed us from a life of destruction. You have given us your lovingkindness and tender mercies. You give us good things to eat that our youth is renewed like that of an eagle. You give those who are oppressed, righteousness and judgement. Moses knew your ways on behalf of the children of Israel. You Oh Father are merciful, gracious, slow to anger, and full of compassion. You do not stay angry. You have not given us what we deserved when we sinned. Your mercy is great! You remove our sins as far as the east is to the west. You are our Father and know our frame, you love us who fear you, have respect for you. You remember we are dust. We have learned we are like grass, like a flower and when the wind comes, we pass. We know your lovingkindness lasts forever from everlasting to those who fear you and your righteousness to children’s children, to those who honor you. You have printed your commandants upon our hearts, help us to be obedient to your will. You have established your throne in the heavens and you rule over the whole universe. We bless you O Father and your angels who work for you. We bless all those who work for you, all dominions. Our souls affectionately give praise to you! We lift this prayer up to you in the name of your Son Jesus Christ, amen.

Wednesday, Small Morning Prayer

                                           Small Morning Prayer

We praise you Father, first thing this morning. We love you with all of our heart, our mind, our soul and our strength. We give you thanks for the blessing and privilege to call you Abba our Father. We thank you for your goodness, your never ending mercies, your guidance, the great love of your Son Jesus and all the teachings in your word. We thank you for your Precious Holy Spirit, who never leaves us. We thank you for the angels you send to us who minister to those of us who inherit salvation. You are great O Lord! And, greatly to be praised! We thank you for revealing to us your mysteries and deep truths. We thank you for bringing us through our testings and trials. It is you and none else! We thank you for healing us in so many ways, especially our souls. We thank you for not allowing us to get away with anything and for always holding us accountable in your gentle ways of telling us to forgive. Forgive us Father, for the times we move in the flesh instead of the spirit, for the times we are not even aware of it.  We praise you for correcting us when we need it. We thank you for giving us that place of rest when you know we need it. You are always here. We thank you for the blessings of the Body of Christ and the great love they give to each other. O Father, your Body is incredible! We are complete together. Truly, we are your living organism. We thank you how their love reflects who you are and your son Jesus. It is you who have given us such a gift, through each other.  We give you all honor and praise this morning. From our hearts, we thank you Father. 

Father, We thank you for giving us your eyes that we can see in the spirit of where we are in these days. We see through your lens, the prophecies coming to pass. Thank you for your ears that we can listen and hear your truth through your Holy Spirit. Thank you Father. We will not fear because we know you have given us a sound mind. We will not waver because we put all of our trust in you and walk by faith, not by sight. We are filled with the fruit of your joy and this has made us strong. We will not look back in sorrow because all of our past is under your son’s blood, rather we will rejoice over the scars and limps we have that taught us, You are Lord.  We look ahead and prepare to fight this fight of faith. Your word says we are more than Conquerors in Christ Jesus and we believe this. We believe and know there are times you answer our prayers before we even ask. We rejoice because you call us “Children of Light!” We belong to you! We are walking mercies! We give you all glory! 

Father, you have given us everything thing we need to be victorious in you. You give us a new strength every single morning, you energize us by the very breath of your Holy Spirit. We embrace you O Father! 

Father, We ask that you would heal and warm the hearts that pray to you this morning. Bring them through their temptations, trials, sufferings and show them, the work is already done in your Son. Fill them up with your word and lift up their hearts, souls, spirits and countenance.  Strengthen them to remove all worry, frets and doubts with your love and your promises.  Help them renew their lives in you. Even teach them the value of a smile. The value of investing in another soul. 

We ask that you would send your Comforter to the families who are struggling with their faith, those who have lost jobs, lost their loved ones and have gotten a negative report and are full of confusion, depression and doubt. We ask that you would fully restore the things they have lost. Give them the peace they need and restore their hope. In your Son Jesus we ask.  amen. 

Read Frank Sonnenberg's advice about raising kids

The Greatest Gift Parents Can Give Kids

By Frank Sonnenberg Leave a Comment

Your family is the most precious treasure in your life. The greatest gift you can give your children is a solid set of values. Take a moment to determine how your actions may be affecting them. Remember, if you don’t pass your values on to your kids, someone else will.

If you:

1. Teach your kids that money is everything, they’ll stop at nothing to get it.
2. Do everything for your children, you’ll make them feel good for nothing.
3. Teach your kids that dishonesty pays, they’ll pay for it for the rest of their life.
4. Reward your children, without their earning it, they’ll work hard not to work.
5. Close your eyes to bad behavior, your kids will always live with a blind spot.
6. Shield your children from adversity, you’ll make them weak. (Heaven protect them.)
7. Teach your kids to envy, they’ll never be satisfied with what they have.
8. Shelter your children from reality, they’ll always live a fantasy.
9. Fight your kids’ battles, you’ll make them frail. (That’s a losing battle.)
10. Tackle every problem for your children, you’ll make them helpless.
11. Teach your children to be a victim, you’ll rob them of hope.
12. Protect your children from hard knocks, you’ll make them soft.
13. Gift your kids everything, you’ll make them dependent. (Thanks for nothing!)
14. Teach your children to hate, they’ll show you how ugly some folks can be.
15. Protect your kids from opposing viewpoints, you’ll make them close-minded and shallow.
16. Teach your children to give up, they’ll always fall short of their dreams.
17. Give your kids everything, you’ll deprive them of aspirations.
18. Lower your expectations of your kids, you’ll get what you expect.
19. Teach your children to cheat, you’ll cheat them out of living an honorable life.
20. Set a poor example for your children, you’ll teach them to be just like you.

Our world may have changed, but the importance of integrity has not. As leaders, role models, and parents, we must strive to utilize every opportunity available to us to reinforce the values and beliefs that we hold dear. If you instill good values in your children, you give them everything! Set high standards, remain true to your values, listen to your conscience, and do yourself proud. Watch your children grow, and they will teach you what you’ve taught them.

Small morning prayer

Did you know, that hatred and bitterness create chemicals that have a destructive effect upon your physical body? Love produces chemicals that cause you to glow? Yes, the chemicals that are produced when you love brings a glow to you and your life. Love is light and there is no reason for us to hate or be bitter when we walk in His love. His light exposes a lot of things to us, but most of all it exposes His love.

Small prayer:
Heavenly Father,

Today, we choose to think on those things that build up, rather than destroy. We choose to see your goodness instead of man's evil ways. We choose to magnify your holiness and not the depravity that we hear all of the time. We know you have made us more than a Conqueror in Christ Jesus and we will not be moved, or budged one inch in our stance. Thank you Father, for giving us another day in your light! Walking down that narrow path and being continually reassured of the depth, height, width, strength and overcoming power of your love in us, through us, upon our lives, in our words and towards each other. Thank you Father in your Son we rejoice this morning! Amen.