We celebrate our national independence and the blessing of freedom every July 4th. As Americans, we also recognize there is a downside to freedom. Even as freedom creates the opportunity to do right, it also creates the opportunity to do wrong. This is what we will see today with the children of Israel.

Pastor Mark's Wednesday evening teachings will give us an overview of God's Word from Genesis to Revelation. Tonight, Pastor Mark continues in the book of Exodus.

Pastor Mark's Wednesday evening teachings will give us an overview of God's Word from Genesis to Revelation. Tonight, Pastor Mark continues in the book of Exodus.

No matter how stable or permanent the things of this world seem, Jesus makes clear there is nothing in this world that is lasting and we are to be ready for the age to come.

Continuing with our series on Islam and our responsibility as Christians. We held a panel with Pastor Mark and Milad, pastor of our Arabic church which meets here at Calvary on Saturdays. Interpretation was provided by Milad’s son Freddy. Pastor Milad opened with an explanation of Islam and the history of Christians and Muslims in the Middle East. During the Q&A portion, several questions were taken from the audience. Pastor Milad encouraged us as Christians to show the love of Jesus to Muslims in order to change their view of us. Not to compromise the Gospel or who Jesus really is, but showing them kindness and love, that they might see the true Jesus as we live out our faith.

Like Pharaoh, sometimes people will respond to God's "plagues" -- intended to bring repentance and healing! -- with short-term softening, only to be followed by renewed recalcitrance when the conditions abate. This is not true repentance! How much better it is when the chastening of the Lord results in yieldedness and refreshing -- which is what the Lord desires for all!

Like Pharaoh, sometimes people will respond to God's "plagues" -- intended to bring repentance and healing! -- with short-term softening, only to be followed by renewed recalcitrance when the conditions abate. This is not true repentance! How much better it is when the chastening of the Lord results in yieldedness and refreshing -- which is what the Lord desires for all!

The religious leaders attempts to trap Jesus and find incriminating evidence against Him continue to not only fail, but have the examination turn against them.

The religious leaders attempts to trap Jesus and find incriminating evidence against Him continue to not only fail, but have the examination turn against them.

We see Moses facing INCREASING opposition from Pharaoh as he faithfully followed the directions of the Lord! Among other lessons learned was this: that after entering the new life of a born-again believer, and when embarking on a new ministry or deeper level of involvement in the life of the Lord, resistance from the enemy toward the true Christian will escalate, especially at first. But we can take courage from the knowledge that along with such trials comes the unwavering faithfulness of the Lord Himself!