The Open Word (Audio)

We know that there has been a big push as of late to remove the words “Merry Christmas” from the Christmas celebration. Today Pastor David will talk about why this is happening and what our response might need to be. Should we continue to say “Merry Christmas”? Is there a better phrase that communicates the joy of the season? Of course, “Merry Christmas” is a wonderful expression. But, today Pastor David will share with us that the word “Maranatha” is an even better one! We will learn that the return of the LORD is directly connected with the season.

Part of Advent is preparing. Preparing for what? Each person needs to prepare their heart for the return of Jesus Christ. The last time you were with us, Pastor David talked about the image of Jesus that we all have...the baby in the manger. We learned that Jesus will not return in the same way that He came. Jesus will return as the righteous and holy Judge. The challenge as you listen today will be this question: Have I prepared my heart for the return of Jesus Christ?

Stop and think about the list of things you have to do every year around this time of year. There's always that one person that is nearly impossible to buy for. The family dinner needs to be planned. Oh, and don't forget to climb up into the attic to get all the ornaments down for the tree! :-) It's easy to lose sight of what's important during the Christmas season. The last time you were with us Pastor David began sharing with us the history behind Advent. Today we'll continue to learn more!

Stop and think about the list of things you have to do every year around this time of year. There's always that one person that is nearly impossible to buy for. The family dinner needs to be planned. Oh, and don't forget to climb up into the attic to get all the ornaments down for the tree! :-) It's easy to lose sight of what's important during the Christmas season. The last time you were with us Pastor David began sharing with us the history behind Advent. Today we'll continue to learn more!

Advent is one of those portions of the yearly calendar that many people simply do not understand. Is it something that we should be celebrating? Where did it come from? Will I grow closer to Jesus if I observe Advent? Pastor David tackles the history behind this often misunderstood holiday. We'll learn today the history behind Advent and why it can most certainly be used by God to draw us closer to Him. We're confident that you'll have a better understanding of Advent after today's message.

A standard level for financial giving within the Christian church has often been ten percent of one’s income, which is based on Biblical examples. However, Pastor David says the most important test is giving what God wants you to give out of a cheerful heart. Therefore, the principle of ten percent is a guideline but God may call you to give and do more! Giving to the work of God is not simply a financial transaction; rather, it is meant to be a gift offered within a loving relationship.

Today Pastor David teaches about the importance of understanding that God knows our hearts, and God desires that we give from a cheerful heart. So, what is your attitude when you give? The reality is that the one who gives enjoys as much of a blessing as the one who receives. Further, our willingness to give can reflect the state of our trust in God. So, if we want to experience a great blessing from God in our hearts and lives, we must trust God especially with the financial area of our life.

Today Pastor David teaches about the financial giving that Paul addressed with the Corinthian church. Various churches that Paul preached to contributed financially to help support one another in ministry, and their gifts were given out of the generosity of their hearts. God has also given us a lot for which we can be thankful. Because of God’s generosity, we can also be generous toward God and His work in this world. What resources may God be calling you to dedicate to His work?

Today, with Pastor David, we will look at the exemplary illustration of Paul’s patience and endurance. Paul miraculously survived many hardships and conflicts in his ministry. When ministry gets difficult, what can encourage us to keep moving forward? God has promised eternal life for all people, and anything we live through now will be worth it. Therefore, it is worthwhile to face the challenge of living for God and loving others so that God’s presence may be enjoyed forever.

Pastor David teaches today how the scripture informs believers of their dependence on the grace of God, and believers have an individual mandate and responsibility. A Christian cannot expect that God will have wave a magic wand and suddenly all temptation or struggle will disappear. As one learns through ups and downs how to walk according to God’s truth and wisdom, God’s grace is always available. The grace of God is meant for a lifelong journey of growth for which God’s patience is sufficient.