Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Christmas Past-Present-Future
Christmas is sometimes overlooked because we look for it in the most obvious of places. When in reality the first Christmas took place in the "not so obvious" place. We preachers are just as bad when it comes to preaching about Christmas. If the sermon doesn't lend itself to the obvious biblical texts of mangers, angels and predictions we believe Christmas is not to be found there. But I want to break from the traditional texts and search for Christmas in a not so obvious passage.
Colossians 1:19-22 For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, 20 and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. 21 And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled 22 in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight;
In 1843 Charles Dickens penned these words that begin what is known to you and me as "A Christmas Carol" . . . "I have endeavored in this Ghostly little book, to raise the Ghost of an Idea, which shall not put my readers out of humour with themselves, with each other, with the season, or with me. May it haunt their houses pleasantly, and no one wish to lay it."
Christmas holds for each of us as mortal creatures a past that must be faced, a present that must be lived, and a future that must be longed for. God's gift was not one to be purchased, but the gift would purchase you and me. From the manger to the cross we hear the whispered name of Immanuel, God with us.
Dr. Bruce Waltke said "The world is lost without a sense of God. Men and women everywhere desperately need to know that there is Someone in charge of life, and that there is a Source to whom they can turn for help and for deliverance. The world needs to know that Jesus Christ is God. If Jesus is not God, then I do not have a Savior."
So when the fullness of time (Galatians 4:4) had come God sent His Son into this world filled with the fullness of Himself (Colossians 1:19, 2:9), God in the flesh, so that you and me may receive of His fullness (John 1:16). Christmas at its best! Man in his best efforts comes to the manger emptied handed only to receive the blessedness of God's peace and good will that offers him ... Forgiveness of the Christmas Past ... Help in the Christmas Present ... and Hope for the Future.
Merry Christmas
Pastor John J. Dodd
Monday, August 27, 2012
Labor Day
LABORERS IN THE HARVEST
Matthew 9:37–38 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
As we observe Labor Day, it is a good time to talk about our labor for God and His kingdom. It is imperative that each Christian becomes apart of the labor force of God. Getting involved in the work of the kingdom is always a blessing to you and the area of your involvement. Let me give you just a few “requirements for Christian workers” that might be of help.
The first thing that a Christian worker needs is optimism. Paul said ". . . whatsoever things are of good report . . . think on these things" (Phil. 4.8). Some Christian workers fail because they are pessimistic. Their looks, tones, and gestures project a negative aura. Optimism is a requirement for doing God's work. Look for the best; expect the best; do your best. Positive attitudes stimulate joy and enthusiasm. Many people will go where they can find a joyous atmosphere.
Secondly, the Christian worker will need organization. Paul again encourages each Christian worker to “. . . show yourself a pattern of good works . . . " (Titus 2:7). Organization gives direction. It protects against frustration and failure. Organization benefits Christian workers. New methods also may be profitable when it comes to soul-winning. And you just may have some new thoughts and ideals that would be beneficial to the future of God’s kingdom.
Thirdly, the desire to fulfill a God given vision. In Acts Paul said ". . . I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision" (Acts26:19). Paul succeeded in doing God's work because he obeyed the Lord. He followed God's directions. Christian workers often fail because of not responding to God’s calling to become involved in His kingdom. Success in God's work means doing his will. Has God called you to be involved? If so, give it a try and I know that you will be richly rewarded.
And lastly, we need to look at the bigger picture. We do not exist just for our self. We have a responsibility to a lost and dying world that is in great need of a savior, not to mention the Christians that need taught and encouraged in the Lord. Paul again said "To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God . . . " (Acts 26:18).
Paul's concern was for souls: that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified. . ." (Acts 26:18). Our ultimate goal must be the same as Paul's. We must reach out in love, with care and concern.
In His Service
Pastor John J. Dodd
Matthew 9:37–38 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
As we observe Labor Day, it is a good time to talk about our labor for God and His kingdom. It is imperative that each Christian becomes apart of the labor force of God. Getting involved in the work of the kingdom is always a blessing to you and the area of your involvement. Let me give you just a few “requirements for Christian workers” that might be of help.
The first thing that a Christian worker needs is optimism. Paul said ". . . whatsoever things are of good report . . . think on these things" (Phil. 4.8). Some Christian workers fail because they are pessimistic. Their looks, tones, and gestures project a negative aura. Optimism is a requirement for doing God's work. Look for the best; expect the best; do your best. Positive attitudes stimulate joy and enthusiasm. Many people will go where they can find a joyous atmosphere.
Secondly, the Christian worker will need organization. Paul again encourages each Christian worker to “. . . show yourself a pattern of good works . . . " (Titus 2:7). Organization gives direction. It protects against frustration and failure. Organization benefits Christian workers. New methods also may be profitable when it comes to soul-winning. And you just may have some new thoughts and ideals that would be beneficial to the future of God’s kingdom.
Thirdly, the desire to fulfill a God given vision. In Acts Paul said ". . . I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision" (Acts26:19). Paul succeeded in doing God's work because he obeyed the Lord. He followed God's directions. Christian workers often fail because of not responding to God’s calling to become involved in His kingdom. Success in God's work means doing his will. Has God called you to be involved? If so, give it a try and I know that you will be richly rewarded.
And lastly, we need to look at the bigger picture. We do not exist just for our self. We have a responsibility to a lost and dying world that is in great need of a savior, not to mention the Christians that need taught and encouraged in the Lord. Paul again said "To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God . . . " (Acts 26:18).
Paul's concern was for souls: that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified. . ." (Acts 26:18). Our ultimate goal must be the same as Paul's. We must reach out in love, with care and concern.
DURING THIS LABOR DAY, PRAY ABOUT YOUR
INVOLVEMENT IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD.
In His Service
Pastor John J. Dodd
Thursday, May 10, 2012
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY
Did you know that the idea for Mother's Day was born in a small church in Grafton, West Virginia? It was 1876 and the nation still mourned the Civil War dead. While teaching a Memorial Day lesson, Mrs. Anna Reeves Jarvis thought of mothers who had lost their sons. She prayed that one day there could be a "Memorial Day" for mothers. The prayer made a deep impression on one of Mrs. Jarvis's eleven children. Young Anna had seen her mother's efforts to hold the war-split community and church together. As she grew into adulthood, the younger woman kept Mrs. Jarvis's dream in her heart. On the day of her mother's death, Anna was determined to establish Mother's Day in her honor. On May 12, 1907, a local observance was held which later spread to Philadelphia. By 1910, Mother's Day was celebrated in forty-five states, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Canada, and Mexico. Elated, Miss Jarvis told a friend, "Where it will end must be left for the future to tell. That it will circle the globe now seems certain." On May 8, 1914, President Wilson designated the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day "for displaying the American flag and for the public expression of love and reverence for the mothers of the country."
And no one puts more value on motherhood than God and His Church! The whole idea of a "MOTHER'S DAY" sprang from the heart of a Christian woman. But being a good parent today is not an easy task! The job is made harder by the various enemies of the family unit: Busy lives of each family member with separate interests. Ridicule by the media of family life, especially traditional family life and the traditional values taught in Scripture. The extreme feminist movement and their ridicule of the role of motherhood. The fact that many parents work full time jobs and have children too.
You should know that Satan's first attack on the human race began with a future mom, Eve whose name means, "The mother of all living" or "living". Satan's thought that if you destroy the parents you will destroy the human race! However, a godly mother can destroy the enemy! The mightiest of nations can crumble to the power of a godly mother. You see, before Moses conquered Egypt, his mother Jochebed had already conquered it!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Did you know that the idea for Mother's Day was born in a small church in Grafton, West Virginia? It was 1876 and the nation still mourned the Civil War dead. While teaching a Memorial Day lesson, Mrs. Anna Reeves Jarvis thought of mothers who had lost their sons. She prayed that one day there could be a "Memorial Day" for mothers. The prayer made a deep impression on one of Mrs. Jarvis's eleven children. Young Anna had seen her mother's efforts to hold the war-split community and church together. As she grew into adulthood, the younger woman kept Mrs. Jarvis's dream in her heart. On the day of her mother's death, Anna was determined to establish Mother's Day in her honor. On May 12, 1907, a local observance was held which later spread to Philadelphia. By 1910, Mother's Day was celebrated in forty-five states, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Canada, and Mexico. Elated, Miss Jarvis told a friend, "Where it will end must be left for the future to tell. That it will circle the globe now seems certain." On May 8, 1914, President Wilson designated the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day "for displaying the American flag and for the public expression of love and reverence for the mothers of the country."
And no one puts more value on motherhood than God and His Church! The whole idea of a "MOTHER'S DAY" sprang from the heart of a Christian woman. But being a good parent today is not an easy task! The job is made harder by the various enemies of the family unit: Busy lives of each family member with separate interests. Ridicule by the media of family life, especially traditional family life and the traditional values taught in Scripture. The extreme feminist movement and their ridicule of the role of motherhood. The fact that many parents work full time jobs and have children too.
You should know that Satan's first attack on the human race began with a future mom, Eve whose name means, "The mother of all living" or "living". Satan's thought that if you destroy the parents you will destroy the human race! However, a godly mother can destroy the enemy! The mightiest of nations can crumble to the power of a godly mother. You see, before Moses conquered Egypt, his mother Jochebed had already conquered it!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Enter With Thanksgiving!!!
One of the most beautiful Psalms of Thanksgiving is the 100th Psalm. It says: "Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Serve the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us, & we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture. "Enter His gates with thanksgiving & His courts with praise; give thanks to Him & praise His name. For the Lord is good & His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations."
With all my heart I believe we are a people & a nation that God has truly blessed. Of all those who "give thanks to Him & praise His name" we should be at the top! Compiling a wish list at Christmas is common, and to draw up a list of resolutions for New Years is normal. However, there is another list we often overlook - a Thanksgiving Day list of all that we are thankful for.
Let me give you a small part of a list that several housewives compiled. They wrote that they were especially thankful:
- "For automatic dishwashers because they make it possible for us to get out of the kitchen before the family comes back in for their after-dinner snacks.
- "For husbands who attack small repair jobs around the house because they usually make them big enough to call in the professionals.
- "For children who put away their things & clean up after themselves. They’re such a joy you hate to see them go home to their own parents
- "For teenagers because they give parents an opportunity to learn a second language.
- "For Smoke alarms because they let you know when the turkey’s done.
Now our list might not be the same as theirs, and I’m sure that it would include more that just our material possessions. Like you, I know that my list would include the major things - life, health, family, friends, & the nation we live in, despite all its flaws. Yet even more than that, I’m thankful for my salvation & the mercy that God showers upon us each day. With Jesus we have so much to celebrate on Thanksgiving!
Have a great Thanksgiving Day every day of your life!!!!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Monday, October 31, 2011
VETERAN’S DAY
How many of us remember the Gulf War? It was the first "Prime Time" war that was ever viewed on national television. I remember that the war was never very far from our minds. We listened to the CNN news team in the Al Rashid hotel in Baghdad, in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, and in Jerusalem. We saw the skies full of tracers, jets parked on airbase taxiways, news teams in gas masks, and bombs blowing apart military targets with star-wars accuracy. The television brought a war into our living rooms for the first time in history.
Part of the difficulty that humans have is that there are times when the only choices available are choices between two evils. I’m sure that our desires as Christians would follow the passages in Micah and Isaiah that speak of beating swords into plowshares, and spears into pruning hooks; But in the book of Joel, written under Greek oppression after the return from Babylon, these words appear: “Proclaim this among the nations: Sanctify war, stir up the warriors. Let all the soldiers draw near, let them come up. Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruning hooks into spears; let the weakling say, “I am a warrior.” You see, occasionally there is a need and a cause for war.
Abraham Lincoln, in his second inaugural address in 1864, captures some of the sadness of war: “Neither party expected for the war, the magnitude, nor the duration, which it has already attained. Each looked for an easier triumph, and a result less fundamental and astounding. Both read the same Bible, and pray to the same God; and each invokes His aid against the other.” Abraham Lincoln saw how slavery had caused the Civil War and how the war therefore was God's judgment on a nation that had permitted slavery. “Fondly do we hope--fervently do we pray--that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away.”
Yes, as much as we hate it, there are warriors and veterans of wars. As we pray for peace in our lifetime, we must also honor the men and women who have given of their service and even their lives for the freedoms that we have. Today, let us say thank you to a veteran for their sacrifice!
In His Service
Pastor John J. Dodd
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
PRAYING FOR OUR NATION
A story is told about Francis Asbury (an itinerant Methodist preacher):
The sun was lowering and the air was like an oven when the stranger rode into town. No one had seen the likes of him before. Leather creaked as he slid out of the saddle. The ground shook as the big man’s boots hit the street. He hitched his horse to the rail, looked around, stepped up on the wooden sidewalk and headed toward the saloon. When his lengthening shadow spilled through the swinging doors a hush fell over the crowd. The bartender stopped pouring. The dealer stopped shuffling. The bar-girls stopped smooching their marks. Even the piano fell silent. Chairs creaked, and necks craned as every eye tried to catch a glimpse of the stranger. And then he said: "Got any praying people around here?"
America is still in need of praying people that will reach heaven for our great nation. We can win today’s battle the same way our forefathers in the faith won theirs. Still, we must ask the same question " . . . got any praying people around here?" Throughout American history there have been major times of widespread revival. One was during the Civil War. It continued through the war and to the turn of the century. There were estimates that as many as one million conversions took place. That, however, is not the most unique feature of this revival. The first startling feature was the dominance of lay leadership and the absence of the famous evangelists. The second startling feature was that it began with prayer meetings rather than preaching services.
As we spend another July 4th remembering our great nation and all the sacrifices that have been made for our freedoms, let us not forget the attacks on our Christian liberties. These attacks are generally not from out side America but from our own liberal judges, educators and government.
I still believe that God wants to send a spiritual revival here. Our job is to fulfill the scripture in 1 Timothy 2:1-3: “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior.”
So let’s not forget our nation and leaders in prayer. I know that God will hear and send America another revival - because we have some praying people.
In His Service
Pastor John J. Dodd
A story is told about Francis Asbury (an itinerant Methodist preacher):
The sun was lowering and the air was like an oven when the stranger rode into town. No one had seen the likes of him before. Leather creaked as he slid out of the saddle. The ground shook as the big man’s boots hit the street. He hitched his horse to the rail, looked around, stepped up on the wooden sidewalk and headed toward the saloon. When his lengthening shadow spilled through the swinging doors a hush fell over the crowd. The bartender stopped pouring. The dealer stopped shuffling. The bar-girls stopped smooching their marks. Even the piano fell silent. Chairs creaked, and necks craned as every eye tried to catch a glimpse of the stranger. And then he said: "Got any praying people around here?"
America is still in need of praying people that will reach heaven for our great nation. We can win today’s battle the same way our forefathers in the faith won theirs. Still, we must ask the same question " . . . got any praying people around here?" Throughout American history there have been major times of widespread revival. One was during the Civil War. It continued through the war and to the turn of the century. There were estimates that as many as one million conversions took place. That, however, is not the most unique feature of this revival. The first startling feature was the dominance of lay leadership and the absence of the famous evangelists. The second startling feature was that it began with prayer meetings rather than preaching services.
As we spend another July 4th remembering our great nation and all the sacrifices that have been made for our freedoms, let us not forget the attacks on our Christian liberties. These attacks are generally not from out side America but from our own liberal judges, educators and government.
I still believe that God wants to send a spiritual revival here. Our job is to fulfill the scripture in 1 Timothy 2:1-3: “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior.”
So let’s not forget our nation and leaders in prayer. I know that God will hear and send America another revival - because we have some praying people.
In His Service
Pastor John J. Dodd
Thursday, March 24, 2011
TRUST THE LORD WITH ALL YOUR HEART
When Theodore Roosevelt was the President of the United States, the story is told that he had a close friend with whom he enjoyed discussing situations around the world. After they would talk about contemporary scenarios and world events, they would walk out into the stillness of the night and cast their eyes on the stars to gain a clearer perspective of life and the world. They would search for a particular galaxy called Andromeda. The first one who found it would say, "That is the spiral galaxy, Andromeda. That speck is as large as our Milky Way. It is one of 100 million galaxies. It consists of 100 billion suns, each larger than our sun." Then, they would look at each other and say together, "Since we now have our proper perspective, let's go to bed."
In like manner, our perspective of God, world events, and our personal lives becomes much clearer when we cast our eyes on the stars. It is in the heavens where God can show us His power and control.
Life is more than an epic drama on the silver screen in theaters. It is a real battle between God and Satan, right and wrong, life and death, heaven and hell. It is a battle that involves the stars. The Bible states that due to the faith of Barak (Hebrews 11:32), the "stars fought from heaven, from their courses they fought against Sisera" (Judges 5:20). Barak was God's hero of faith. He led the nation of Israel in a victorious battle against Israel's ancient foe, the Canaanites.
If you are looking for comfort and reassurance in a life that you think is out of control, just look up. The God of eternity, the God of heaven and earth is keeping your life under His care just as He keeps this massive universe under His perfect control. When we have a perfect perspective, the worry and anxiety of life becomes easier to deal with.
Blessings!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
A WHOLE LOT OF SHAKING GOING ON!
In HEBREWS 12:25-29 God speaks to us of things that can and cannot be shaken. The reason for the shaking is to reveal that which is of God and that which is not. And only those things that are of God will survive, and those things that are of the flesh will be destroyed.
The Bible tells us about two people who built their homes on different foundations. The wise man built his home on the rock. The foolish man built his home on the sand. Both experienced strong wind and rain that shook their homes. Only the home built on the right foundation survived.
The shaking of things is not always a negative. The disciples in Matthew 10:14 were told to shake the dust from their feet when they left a place that did not receive them. Rejection is a difficult thing to deal with. There are things in our past that try to hold onto us and serve as a constant reminder of a time gone bad. Jesus taught us that sometimes we need to shake the dust off our feet and move on.
Sometimes praying causes a shaking. In Acts 16:19 the Holy Spirit arrived on the scene and a physical manifestation took place. - the jail literally shook. Peter and Silas were released from prison and returned to their companions. In Acts 4:31 there was a prayer meeting that shook the very foundation of a building because of prayer. I have never experienced such a thing but I have been involved in some services where the glory of God was so strong that people thought that they were being shaken. It is a wonderful thing when God is present. The shaking is important, but the results of the shaking are what counts. The result is generally the ability to boldly speak the word of God and do His will in a fuller way.
Even our blessings are shaken together. In Luke 6:38 God speaks of His blessings toward us being shaken . . . so more blessings can fit in! I'm not looking for God just to dabble me with a blessing here and a blessing there. I'm looking for a blessing that is with good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over. We want to avoid those things that can be shaken. And we want to cling to those things that cannot be shaken.
As mentioned earlier, there were two people who built their homes on two different foundations. The difference is that the wise man dug deep until he reached a firm foundation. And that foundation is always Christ Jesus!
Let's receive a kingdom that cannot be shaken!
Pastor John J. Dodd
In HEBREWS 12:25-29 God speaks to us of things that can and cannot be shaken. The reason for the shaking is to reveal that which is of God and that which is not. And only those things that are of God will survive, and those things that are of the flesh will be destroyed.
The Bible tells us about two people who built their homes on different foundations. The wise man built his home on the rock. The foolish man built his home on the sand. Both experienced strong wind and rain that shook their homes. Only the home built on the right foundation survived.
The shaking of things is not always a negative. The disciples in Matthew 10:14 were told to shake the dust from their feet when they left a place that did not receive them. Rejection is a difficult thing to deal with. There are things in our past that try to hold onto us and serve as a constant reminder of a time gone bad. Jesus taught us that sometimes we need to shake the dust off our feet and move on.
Sometimes praying causes a shaking. In Acts 16:19 the Holy Spirit arrived on the scene and a physical manifestation took place. - the jail literally shook. Peter and Silas were released from prison and returned to their companions. In Acts 4:31 there was a prayer meeting that shook the very foundation of a building because of prayer. I have never experienced such a thing but I have been involved in some services where the glory of God was so strong that people thought that they were being shaken. It is a wonderful thing when God is present. The shaking is important, but the results of the shaking are what counts. The result is generally the ability to boldly speak the word of God and do His will in a fuller way.
Even our blessings are shaken together. In Luke 6:38 God speaks of His blessings toward us being shaken . . . so more blessings can fit in! I'm not looking for God just to dabble me with a blessing here and a blessing there. I'm looking for a blessing that is with good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over. We want to avoid those things that can be shaken. And we want to cling to those things that cannot be shaken.
As mentioned earlier, there were two people who built their homes on two different foundations. The difference is that the wise man dug deep until he reached a firm foundation. And that foundation is always Christ Jesus!
Let's receive a kingdom that cannot be shaken!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Thursday, December 16, 2010
The Miracle of Christmas
The real story of the times of Jesus’ birth was that there was terrible political unrest, a religious institution that was more concerned about politics than meeting the spiritual needs of the people! Nations were constantly redrawing Israel’s boundaries, and there was a nervous peace around the world. The disparity between rich and poor was getting greater and greater. Into the midst of all this turmoil and hopelessness God makes His appearance in human flesh . . . the baby Jesus!
The Bible shows us that in Christ there can be "peace and goodwill to all men on whom his favor rests" 2:14b. In the midst of a world of darkness God has given us a great light. Most people were hoping for some kind of miracle to change things! It was in this atmosphere that a miracle did happen, God sends forth His son the Messiah to redeem man. The whole world was changed when Christ was born. Only Jesus can profoundly change the behavior of man. And it will be Christ's second coming that will finally solve the problem of the human race.
During this season how many will have their hearts and minds tuned only to the sounds of this world in celebration, and how many will be listening for the marvel of what God has done in the celebration of Christmas?
The first Christmas the desperate and the despised found great joy and peace and acceptance from God! What about you? Will you just pass through another holiday season ending it with a huge credit card debt and exhaustion over activities? Or will you come to know "peace on earth and good will toward men on whom His favor rests." Will you find a great joy in knowing that Christmas is not just a season, it is a reason for living? For Christians the Christmas season is not starting, it has never ended!
In His Service
Pastor John J. Dodd
The real story of the times of Jesus’ birth was that there was terrible political unrest, a religious institution that was more concerned about politics than meeting the spiritual needs of the people! Nations were constantly redrawing Israel’s boundaries, and there was a nervous peace around the world. The disparity between rich and poor was getting greater and greater. Into the midst of all this turmoil and hopelessness God makes His appearance in human flesh . . . the baby Jesus!
The Bible shows us that in Christ there can be "peace and goodwill to all men on whom his favor rests" 2:14b. In the midst of a world of darkness God has given us a great light. Most people were hoping for some kind of miracle to change things! It was in this atmosphere that a miracle did happen, God sends forth His son the Messiah to redeem man. The whole world was changed when Christ was born. Only Jesus can profoundly change the behavior of man. And it will be Christ's second coming that will finally solve the problem of the human race.
During this season how many will have their hearts and minds tuned only to the sounds of this world in celebration, and how many will be listening for the marvel of what God has done in the celebration of Christmas?
The first Christmas the desperate and the despised found great joy and peace and acceptance from God! What about you? Will you just pass through another holiday season ending it with a huge credit card debt and exhaustion over activities? Or will you come to know "peace on earth and good will toward men on whom His favor rests." Will you find a great joy in knowing that Christmas is not just a season, it is a reason for living? For Christians the Christmas season is not starting, it has never ended!
In His Service
Pastor John J. Dodd
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
I AM ONE OF YOU!
Joseph Damien was a nineteenth-century missionary who ministered to people with leprosy on the island of Molokai, Hawaii. Those suffering grew to love him and revered the sacrificial life he lived out before them. One morning before Damien was to lead daily worship, he was pouring some hot water into a cup when the water swirled out and fell onto his bare foot. It took him a moment to realize that he had not felt any sensation. Gripped by the sudden fear of what this could mean, he poured more hot water on the same spot. No feeling at all. Damien immediately knew what had happened. As he tearfully delivered his sermon that morning, no one at first noticed the difference in his opening line. He normally began every sermon with, "My fellow believers." But this morning he began with, "My fellow lepers." In a greater measure Jesus came into this world knowing what it would cost him. He bore in his pure being the marks of evil, so we might be made pure. "For this I came into the world," he said (John 18:37).
The Scriptures tell us about a God that so loved humanity that instead of just encountering humans, He experienced humanity! God came to experience the pain, pressures and difficulties of our lives so He could be the Savior of the world that we needed. There is no greater way that God can becoming one of us except by coming and living among us. So during this Christmas season, let us remember that the greatest demonstration of God's love to humanity was the gift of His Son Jesus Christ.
Merry Christmas and God Bless You!!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Thursday, July 8, 2010
THE SECRET SOCIETY OF THE SATISFIED
In Philippians 4:11 Paul uses the word "content." This word speaks of "being satisfied with what one has, regardless of how small it might be." Are you a contented person? Are you satisfied with your lot in life? If you are, then you possess great treasure. Someone has said that contentment "softens our privations, sweetens our provisions, and makes a cottage as fair as a castle."
You might be saved and have much in this world and still not be content. Rather than living lives of grateful contentment, our lives are often filled with complaining. We complain when children are noisy, instead of being thankful that they are healthy and happy. We complain about our home when thousands have no home at all. We gripe about work when many have no jobs. We fuss about our cars when many have never seen a car. Why? We have never learned the secret of contentment! Benjamin Franklin said, "Contentment makes poor men rich; discontentment makes rich men poor."
There is a secret to satisfaction and Paul knew all about it. Look at his words: (v.11) "I have learned", this word means "to gain knowledge". (v.12) "I know", this word means "to understand, to make a discovery". (v.12) "I am instructed", this phrase means "to be initiated". Paul uses the language of Greek "mystery religions". They claimed to have special knowledge of deep, divine secrets possessed only by the initiated. Paul borrows their words to tell us that he has been initiated into The Secret Society Of The Satisfied. He knows the secrets and they all reside and come to us through our wonderful Lord Jesus Christ!
Find your satisfaction in Christ alone!
Pastor John J. Dodd
You might be saved and have much in this world and still not be content. Rather than living lives of grateful contentment, our lives are often filled with complaining. We complain when children are noisy, instead of being thankful that they are healthy and happy. We complain about our home when thousands have no home at all. We gripe about work when many have no jobs. We fuss about our cars when many have never seen a car. Why? We have never learned the secret of contentment! Benjamin Franklin said, "Contentment makes poor men rich; discontentment makes rich men poor."
There is a secret to satisfaction and Paul knew all about it. Look at his words: (v.11) "I have learned", this word means "to gain knowledge". (v.12) "I know", this word means "to understand, to make a discovery". (v.12) "I am instructed", this phrase means "to be initiated". Paul uses the language of Greek "mystery religions". They claimed to have special knowledge of deep, divine secrets possessed only by the initiated. Paul borrows their words to tell us that he has been initiated into The Secret Society Of The Satisfied. He knows the secrets and they all reside and come to us through our wonderful Lord Jesus Christ!
Find your satisfaction in Christ alone!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Thursday, June 24, 2010
RITUAL OR REALITY
People are not interested in religion but in reality. The world
does not need a definition of religion so much as it needs a
demonstration. There is a desperate need for the church to
move beyond a ritualistic religion and to show the power of
the reality of the Kingdom of God. I know that God has
described His Kingdom in many ways . . . but never powerless,
boring, or depressing! Listen to what the scriptures say about
the greatest institution on earth.
Romans 14:17
For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness,
and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
Hebrews 12:28
Wherefore we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved
(shaken), let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably
with reverence and godly fear:
Each local church (a local Kingdom of God) should be described in
the above scriptures. Not just a dead and dry meeting of religion,
but of the reality of God’s presence, because people need a
relationship with God. In the last few years we have seen just a
little demonstration of God’s power being active in God’s church.
God wants his people to reflect the reality of their religion. True
religion is not superficial but springs from the heart of man.
External religion will never compensate for the real thing. Our
dependence must be founded on God and not our deeds.
To depend on anything but God will result in getting us spiritually
out of focus. We tend to focus on our self when our focus gets off God.
We tend to magnify our own righteousness rather than magnify God.
To get our eyes off God causes us to emphasize our work for Him
rather than His work for us. The Israelites in the O.T. had hoped
they could place God under obligation through their fastings and
prayers. Their motives were wrong; their pious activity was purely
selfish. They complained, "God, we have sacrificed and abstained,
and You haven't even noticed." Their attitude was "God owes me!"
However, God is not blessing us because he owes us . . . He is
blessing us because he loves and cares for his people. God receives
the glory and honor for what is accomplished. So, let us continue to
"have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence
and godly fear."
Blessings!
Pastor John J. Dodd
does not need a definition of religion so much as it needs a
demonstration. There is a desperate need for the church to
move beyond a ritualistic religion and to show the power of
the reality of the Kingdom of God. I know that God has
described His Kingdom in many ways . . . but never powerless,
boring, or depressing! Listen to what the scriptures say about
the greatest institution on earth.
Romans 14:17
For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness,
and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
Hebrews 12:28
Wherefore we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved
(shaken), let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably
with reverence and godly fear:
Each local church (a local Kingdom of God) should be described in
the above scriptures. Not just a dead and dry meeting of religion,
but of the reality of God’s presence, because people need a
relationship with God. In the last few years we have seen just a
little demonstration of God’s power being active in God’s church.
God wants his people to reflect the reality of their religion. True
religion is not superficial but springs from the heart of man.
External religion will never compensate for the real thing. Our
dependence must be founded on God and not our deeds.
To depend on anything but God will result in getting us spiritually
out of focus. We tend to focus on our self when our focus gets off God.
We tend to magnify our own righteousness rather than magnify God.
To get our eyes off God causes us to emphasize our work for Him
rather than His work for us. The Israelites in the O.T. had hoped
they could place God under obligation through their fastings and
prayers. Their motives were wrong; their pious activity was purely
selfish. They complained, "God, we have sacrificed and abstained,
and You haven't even noticed." Their attitude was "God owes me!"
However, God is not blessing us because he owes us . . . He is
blessing us because he loves and cares for his people. God receives
the glory and honor for what is accomplished. So, let us continue to
"have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence
and godly fear."
Blessings!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
TOMBS & STONES
The next few weeks mark a holy celebration, it's the celebration of our Lord's death and resurrection. This Easter season we are called upon to think of tombs & stones. They make us think about death and hopefully life. In the gospel of Mark chapter 16 there was a problem!!! The problem was a barrier. The women who were coming to the tomb to anoint the body of Jesus asked: "Who will roll away the stone from the door of the tomb for us?" The stone (barrier) was going to keep the women from doing what they wanted to do.
Stones are still covering tombs today. Our tombs may not be a place in the side of a hill that's covered with a rock, it may be - hardened hearts - unconfessed sin - indifference - bitterness - hatred - complacency. These are self imposed stones that cover our lives and act as barriers that keep God out! They keep God from doing what He wants to do in each of our lives. Tombs contain that which is dead, not living. The women came to ANOINT the DEAD body of Jesus. However, Jesus could not be found among the dead . . . He was risen! The bible also speaks of people that look alive but are dead.
Matthew 23:27-28 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and everything unclean. 28In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.
So how did the stone get rolled away? ANSWER: God did it! Matthew 28:2 tells us that there was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. And how will the stones get rolled away from our lives? ANSWER: God will do it! We can live in a tomb of the dead, or leave an empty tomb behind and have life.
Romans 6:4, 10-11 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. 10The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. 11In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.
Choose Life through Christ this Easter season!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Stones are still covering tombs today. Our tombs may not be a place in the side of a hill that's covered with a rock, it may be - hardened hearts - unconfessed sin - indifference - bitterness - hatred - complacency. These are self imposed stones that cover our lives and act as barriers that keep God out! They keep God from doing what He wants to do in each of our lives. Tombs contain that which is dead, not living. The women came to ANOINT the DEAD body of Jesus. However, Jesus could not be found among the dead . . . He was risen! The bible also speaks of people that look alive but are dead.
Matthew 23:27-28 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and everything unclean. 28In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.
So how did the stone get rolled away? ANSWER: God did it! Matthew 28:2 tells us that there was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. And how will the stones get rolled away from our lives? ANSWER: God will do it! We can live in a tomb of the dead, or leave an empty tomb behind and have life.
Romans 6:4, 10-11 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. 10The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. 11In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.
Choose Life through Christ this Easter season!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
TAKE YOUR GOAT INTO THE ROOM WITH YOU
There is a story about a family that was not very thankful . . . A man goes to his pastor and complains, Life is unbearable. There are nine of us living in one room. What can I do? The pastor answers, Take your goat into the room with you. The man thinks that this is ridiculous, but the pastor insists. Do as I say and come back in a week. A week later the man comes back looking more distraught than before. We cannot stand it, he tells the pastor. The goat is filthy and he makes a mess of everything. The pastor then tells him, go home and let the goat out and come back in a week. A radiant man returns to the pastor a week later, exclaiming, life is beautiful. We enjoy every minute of it now that there's no goat in the house, only the nine of us.
Thankfulness is always a matter of perspective!
Psalms 100 is one of the great Thanksgiving chapters in the Bible. The first verse of chapter 100 says: "Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth." To make a joyful shout is more than hollering or screaming. The emphasis is upon what we are shouting about. The Hebrew word means "an extension of the hand." It is as if the psalmist is saying to cup the hand to the mouth and speak out loud a very joyful confession to the Lord. Psalms 100 explains the many ways that we should be thankful. We need to serve God and each other with thankfulness, we must come before God in a thankful manner. There is Public Praise and there is Personal Praise. Thanksgiving is more about your attitude then your circumstances.
PRINCIPLES ARE ETERNAL AND THEREFORE THEY NEVER
CHANGE WITH THE CULTURE OR CIRCUMSTANCES.
SO IS YOUR THANKSGIVING JUST A HOLIDAY THING OR
A PRINCIPLE THING IN YOUR LIFE?
A PRINCIPLE THING IN YOUR LIFE?
Have a great Thanksgiving Day!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Pastor John J. Dodd
Monday, November 2, 2009
VETERAN’S DAY
Corporal Jeffrey Starr was a typical 22-year-old American Marine. He was into high tech, he was computer savvy and he believed in his mission. While serving his third tour in Iraq, he wrote a letter to his girlfriend and stored it on his computer. It was to be opened only in the event of his death. On May 30th 2005, he was killed by small-arms fire near Ramadi, Iraq.
His girlfriend received the following email:
"It may seem confusing why we are here in Iraq, but it’s not to me. I'm here helping these people, so that they can live the way we live. Not to have to worry about tyrants or vicious dictators...to do what they want with their lives. To me that is why I died. Others have died for my freedom, now this is my mark."
Corporal Jeffrey Starr gave his life in pursuit of an ideal in which he believed. He is an American hero, one of many whose mettle has been tested and cured in the crucible of war. There are, and have always been, many more just like him. Each believes in the mission and those certain enviable character traits, among which are determination, persistence, willingness to sacrifice, possessing an iron will and devotion to duty.
Many of us have friends and family that have gave of their own lives to secure the freedom that we now enjoy. Yet, we must remember that the "war" does not end for most of our veterans just because they made it home safely. They still need our support and love as they come home and try to re-enter civilian life. So, on this Veteran’s Day, let’s make every effort to honor the brave men and women who have served this great nation and have protected our freedom.
Pastor John J. Dodd
Monday, October 19, 2009
AGAINST THE OBVIOUS!
We have an unlimited number of books on the best seller's list on how to be successful. Elijah and Elisha were two of the most successful leaders in the Old Testament, yet a study of their successful lives go against the obvious definition of success as defined by this world! The world defines success by: level of income, control or power, how many work for you, how many departments are under you, how big a project you manage, how large your home or farm is, how much profit you earn, or how much inventory you stock and sell! But true spiritual success is not so much what you have as it is what you are. And since the key to success is WHO we are and not WHAT we do, than success comes to those who know how to live life properly! On Elijah’s final ministry journey he offers Elisha three opportunities to leave him as he was venturing into some tough areas ...
Gilgal to Bethel ... from the mountains to the valley!
Bethel to Jericho ... to a city that God had cursed!
Jericho to the Jordan ... the boundary of the Promise Land to the wilderness!
Bethel to Jericho ... to a city that God had cursed!
Jericho to the Jordan ... the boundary of the Promise Land to the wilderness!
Yet, Elisha was in this ministry relationship for the long haul, even when the trip was to be a difficult one, or a final one! Whatever came they would face it together. While others may have stood as spectators, Elisha stood by Elijah's side as a faithful ministry companion! Elisha’s ministry would be determined a success before God, not by how many would be saved under his ministry, but by his faithfulness to BE what God called him to be! Elisha’s character is about to be revealed by an offer of any thing he wished for would be granted! Character determines everything in life ... what you do will flow from what you are. And so Elisha requests "A DOUBLE PORTION OF ELIJAH'S SPIRIT." This was not a request for twice as much power! This was not a request for twice as many miracles! It was the language of a first born son desiring his father's blessings! We have a wonderful heavenly father that wants to bless His children . . . so make sure that you chose His blessings over the obvious success of this world.
Blessings!Pastor John J. Dodd
Thursday, September 3, 2009
A MIRACLE IN THE MAKING
Let me ask you a question, what is the one common denominator in every miracle? What is evident and absolutely necessary for a miracle to take place?
Some people would say faith. Without faith it is impossible to please God. But honestly, we all know that many people received a miracle from God and did not have faith. Many people receive a miracle and are surprised. They didn't have a clue what happened, or how the miracle came their way. Others might say that the one prerequisite to receiving a miracle from God is prayer. "You've gotta pray!" However, the truth is that there are miracles that took place in the Bible when no one prayed.
There's only one common denominator that is in every miracle in the Bible. EVERY MIRACLE BEGINS WITH A PROBLEM! That's right. Think about it. Every miracle in the Bible begins with a need. Sometimes, that person is at the end of their rope. They are frustrated. They don't know where to turn. They've come to the end of their own resources. They don't have an answer.
So, if you have a problem, you are a candidate for a miracle from God. In fact, the bigger the problem the greater the miracle. So if you need a miracle, just remember that God loves you and you can trust Him with the circumstances, that need a miracle, of your life.
Blessings!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Some people would say faith. Without faith it is impossible to please God. But honestly, we all know that many people received a miracle from God and did not have faith. Many people receive a miracle and are surprised. They didn't have a clue what happened, or how the miracle came their way. Others might say that the one prerequisite to receiving a miracle from God is prayer. "You've gotta pray!" However, the truth is that there are miracles that took place in the Bible when no one prayed.
There's only one common denominator that is in every miracle in the Bible. EVERY MIRACLE BEGINS WITH A PROBLEM! That's right. Think about it. Every miracle in the Bible begins with a need. Sometimes, that person is at the end of their rope. They are frustrated. They don't know where to turn. They've come to the end of their own resources. They don't have an answer.
So, if you have a problem, you are a candidate for a miracle from God. In fact, the bigger the problem the greater the miracle. So if you need a miracle, just remember that God loves you and you can trust Him with the circumstances, that need a miracle, of your life.
Blessings!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
A Cup of Cold Water
A line in "The Rhyme of the Ancient Mariner" says "He
prayeth best who loveth best, all things great and small..."
It is easy to love the great things, the big things. Our culture
celebrates power, money, influence, and beauty. But that
same culture ignores the small and seemingly insignificant
things. The good mother, the faithful employee, the day
laborer, the plain looking, the simply dressed, the common
person...these are just faces in the crowd, extras on the
movie set, non-essentials in the quest for perfection. But
I'm glad that God does not judge His people as our society
judges. We may think "It doesn't really matter if I live close
to God, it wont make any difference." "I'm just a nobody."
Yet, the word of God tells us that our labors for God,
however small, are noted by God and will ultimately be
rewarded by Him. Even a cup of cold water is enough
to activate the rewards of God! Can you see the repercussions
of this truth? Every kind word spoken for Christ will be
rewarded. Every handshake, hug or embrace will be
remembered. Every meal cooked for the sick God has
recorded. Every visitation, every Sunday school class
taught, every fellowship meal prepared, every offering....
Don't despair, God will reward kind words and good deeds,
no matter how insignificant they may seem.
prayeth best who loveth best, all things great and small..."
It is easy to love the great things, the big things. Our culture
celebrates power, money, influence, and beauty. But that
same culture ignores the small and seemingly insignificant
things. The good mother, the faithful employee, the day
laborer, the plain looking, the simply dressed, the common
person...these are just faces in the crowd, extras on the
movie set, non-essentials in the quest for perfection. But
I'm glad that God does not judge His people as our society
judges. We may think "It doesn't really matter if I live close
to God, it wont make any difference." "I'm just a nobody."
Yet, the word of God tells us that our labors for God,
however small, are noted by God and will ultimately be
rewarded by Him. Even a cup of cold water is enough
to activate the rewards of God! Can you see the repercussions
of this truth? Every kind word spoken for Christ will be
rewarded. Every handshake, hug or embrace will be
remembered. Every meal cooked for the sick God has
recorded. Every visitation, every Sunday school class
taught, every fellowship meal prepared, every offering....
Don't despair, God will reward kind words and good deeds,
no matter how insignificant they may seem.
Blessings!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Monday, August 3, 2009
THE POWER OF CHOICES
Webster Defines choice as the right, the power and the chance to choose, it means the right to pick out by preference from what is available, to take as a choice. Aren’t you glad God created you in his own image and likeness with the privilege of choice? He created you with free will, so that you can live life with the freedom of your personal choices and decisions.
However there are consequences, either good or bad, to our decisions and choices. In the book of Deuteronomy we are told to choose life or receive the consequences of death. In Matthew we read about two gates, one is straight and narrow and leads to life and the other is broad and wide and represents choosing the easy way that leads to death. As we move through this life, making the choices that will lead us closer to our Heavenly Father is wise. The questions that I have are: What would you like to be true about your life many years from now? And, are you making choices today that will produce the harvest you want? Remember, we do not always get to choose the circumstances of life, but we always have the choice of our responses to those circumstances.
THE SUCCESS OR FAILURE OF OUR LIFE IS MADE UP OF THE DECISIONS AND CHOICES WE MAKE EVERY DAY OF OUR LIFE.
Blessings!
Pastor John J. Dodd
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Yet I will Rejoice!!
In the book of Habakkuk we see a man and a nation facing the worst of times. But Habakkuk responded with praise and worship of God . . . HOW? Because Habakkuk tells us that God has made him ready for this time in his life. Habakkuk says that God has given him "feet of a deer." If Habakkuk had lived on this continent, he might have said, "like those of a bighorn sheep." Because, if you go to Montana’s Glacier National Park and look up at a rocky, seemingly inaccessible peak – there near the top you would see bighorn sheep. They will climb to the uppermost crags, and run over rock fields as easily as we would run on the beach. Why are bighorn sheep able to do this? Because of their feet – their tough, cloven hooves. These hooves aren’t hurt by sharp rocks, but are able to grip even small outcrops. God designed their feet for climbing. They don’t slip. They don’t fall. So remember, the point is not the power of the sheep, but God’s design of the sheep’s foot. So in the same way, God has designed you to stand and not fall.
SO WHY REJOICE? BECAUSE . . . GOD IS GOOD! HE IS WISE! HE IS IN CONTROL! AND HE KNOWS WHAT HE IS DOING!
Blessings!
Pastor Dodd
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