How much of what we do wrong is our own doing and how much is Satan’s fault? The devil tempted Jesus in the desert, our first parents in the Garden of Eden, and he tempts us in our times of trial. In this week’s sermon, we will ponder the idea of a personal devil.
Scripture: I Peter 5:8-9
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon Handling Temptation delivered on Christian Crusaders February 21, 2010.
How do we face our temptations? We cannot escape them. But the Holy Spirit, working through the Word, will guide and strengthen us that we might resist Satan. Yet if we in our weakness fall, he will forgive us through Jesus Christ and give us the strength to overcome our sins.
ChristianCrusaders.org
Miss a week on Christian Crusaders? You don’t have to miss a sermon! Log on to http://www.christiancrusaders.org/sermonsearch.asp and find sermons going back more than ten years. This easy sermon search tool can be used to find a sermon you missed or to relive one you particularly liked again. Or, call 1-888-My Faith and request a copy of any sermon on CD or in print to be mailed to you.
On the Light Side
The Devil’s Beatitudes
Blessed are those who are too tired, too busy, too distracted to spend an hour once a week with their fellow Christians in Church ~ they are my best workers.
Blessed are those who wait to be asked and expect to be thanked ~ I can use them in my business.
Blessed are those who are touchy. Soon they will stop going to church ~ verily, they shall be my missionaries.
Blessed are those who sow gossip and trouble ~ they are my beloved children.
Blessed are those who have no time to pray ~ for they are MY prey.
Blessed are those who gossip ~ for they are my secret agents.
Blessed are you when you read this and think it has everything to do with other people, and nothing to do with you. ~ I've got room for YOU at my inn.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
Describe Your Relationship With God
Last month we relived some of the terrible events on September 11, 2001. Our nation was attacked, and 3,000 people were killed. Many of those caught in these attacks, finding themselves inadequate to handle the situation, turned to God for help. It is true that we do live in a fallen world and will all have our 9-11’s. Where do we turn when we are crushed?
Scripture: I Peter 5:6-7, 10-11
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon The Evening That Faith Grew delivered on Christian Crusaders June 21, 2009.
Peter’s sermon at Pentecost was also a wild sea, but the fear was gone. He had come a long way in his relationship with Jesus. His experience of being tossed around on a wild sea in a small boat taught him that Jesus was able to deliver on the promises He had made to the disciples. It has brought me great encouragement in my ministry to watch people grow spiritually as they live with their problems; some of those being big problems. The storms of life come into every life. They can either destroy us or make us strong people of God. Christ alone can empower us to face the storms as we encounter them.
ChristianCrusaders.org
Check out our new online store! Christian Crusaders’ Web site offers a place to shop for materials that will uplift and inspire you. Browse among Rev. Larsen’s five-volume DVD video sermon series; his book You’ll Be Surprised What the Lord Can Do, filled with anecdotes and advice on Christian living; or even request an audio copy of a past sermon. These resources, an extension of our radio program, make great gifts, too.
On the Light Side
A little boy was overhead praying: “Lord, if you can’t make me a better boy, don’t worry about it. I’m having a real good time like I am.”
Scripture: I Peter 5:6-7, 10-11
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon The Evening That Faith Grew delivered on Christian Crusaders June 21, 2009.
Peter’s sermon at Pentecost was also a wild sea, but the fear was gone. He had come a long way in his relationship with Jesus. His experience of being tossed around on a wild sea in a small boat taught him that Jesus was able to deliver on the promises He had made to the disciples. It has brought me great encouragement in my ministry to watch people grow spiritually as they live with their problems; some of those being big problems. The storms of life come into every life. They can either destroy us or make us strong people of God. Christ alone can empower us to face the storms as we encounter them.
ChristianCrusaders.org
Check out our new online store! Christian Crusaders’ Web site offers a place to shop for materials that will uplift and inspire you. Browse among Rev. Larsen’s five-volume DVD video sermon series; his book You’ll Be Surprised What the Lord Can Do, filled with anecdotes and advice on Christian living; or even request an audio copy of a past sermon. These resources, an extension of our radio program, make great gifts, too.
On the Light Side
A little boy was overhead praying: “Lord, if you can’t make me a better boy, don’t worry about it. I’m having a real good time like I am.”
Friday, October 21, 2011
Christians' Lives Are Different
The Bible teaches that if we are committed to Jesus Christ, our lives will be different. In the past, some have interpreted this thought by banning card playing and dancing. In today’s culture, it seems that anything goes. So which is correct? We will study St. Peter’s words this week to learn the answer.
Scripture: I Peter 4:1-11
Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who suffered in his body is done with sin. As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do – living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.
The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon Life Is Shaped by Our Choices delivered on Christian Crusaders July 24, 2005.
Look around in your church on a Sunday morning and see how hundreds of people . . . are living exciting lives with Christ as their Lord. They are worshiping as a family. Many of their friends are members of the congregation with similar interests in life. Dad and Mom are considered important employees where they work because of their faithfulness and work ethic. They are a fun family, not because they are better than others, but because they have made a decision to let God's Word be their governing authority and they experience His presence with them each day. They believe you reap what you sow.
Want a Regular Reminder About Christian Crusaders’ Upcoming Sermons?
By joining the ministry's Facebook page, you will receive a weekly reminder about the upcoming sermon. You can also use the page to connect with other Christian Crusaders listeners and post messages about events and information they might be interested in knowing.
On the Light Side
An elderly man went to the doctor complaining of a terrible pain in his leg.
“I am afraid it’s just old age,” replied the doctor. “There is nothing we can do about it.”
“That can’t be,” fumed the old man. “You don’t know what you are doing!”
“How can you possibly know I am wrong?” countered the doctor.
“Well it’s quite obvious,” the old man replied. “My other leg is fine, and it’s the exact same age!”
Scripture: I Peter 4:1-11
Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who suffered in his body is done with sin. As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do – living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.
The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon Life Is Shaped by Our Choices delivered on Christian Crusaders July 24, 2005.
Look around in your church on a Sunday morning and see how hundreds of people . . . are living exciting lives with Christ as their Lord. They are worshiping as a family. Many of their friends are members of the congregation with similar interests in life. Dad and Mom are considered important employees where they work because of their faithfulness and work ethic. They are a fun family, not because they are better than others, but because they have made a decision to let God's Word be their governing authority and they experience His presence with them each day. They believe you reap what you sow.
Want a Regular Reminder About Christian Crusaders’ Upcoming Sermons?
By joining the ministry's Facebook page, you will receive a weekly reminder about the upcoming sermon. You can also use the page to connect with other Christian Crusaders listeners and post messages about events and information they might be interested in knowing.
On the Light Side
An elderly man went to the doctor complaining of a terrible pain in his leg.
“I am afraid it’s just old age,” replied the doctor. “There is nothing we can do about it.”
“That can’t be,” fumed the old man. “You don’t know what you are doing!”
“How can you possibly know I am wrong?” countered the doctor.
“Well it’s quite obvious,” the old man replied. “My other leg is fine, and it’s the exact same age!”
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Do Not Erase
Life can get real complicated at times. Disappointments and fears challenge our sense of security. However, God’s Word has a simple, but profound bit of counsel to sustain us as we face those moments in our lives. We will consider that counsel in this week’s sermon.
Scripture: II Timothy 2:8
Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David—that is my gospel, for which I suffer hardship, even to the point of being chained like a criminal.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon When Your World Stops delivered on Christian Crusaders November 21, 2004.
We hear Paul the Apostle say in the book of Romans, “What are we to say then about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not also with him give us everything else?” Then he goes on to say, “I believe that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ.” He was willing to lay down his life for us. God was willing to say, “Go and rescue my people, I love them.” Surely you and I can count upon Him to hear our prayers and lift us up when our world gets stopped.
About ChristianCrusaders.org
Help Christian Crusaders spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ by posting a link to ChristianCrusaders.org from your own personal or business website! Encourage your church to post a link as well. In this way, you can also become a part of the mission to proclaim Jesus Christ and enable Christian Crusaders’ listeners to hear the most important message in the world!
On the Light Side
During the worship service, Rev. Brown asked for parishioners to write their prayer concerns down and hand them to the usher. When they were brought forward, the nearsighted minister glanced at the note that Mrs. Jones sent. The note read, “Bill Jones having gone to sea, his wife desires the prayers of the congregation for his safety.
Failing to note the punctuation, Rev. Brown startled his audience by announcing, “Bill Jones, having gone to see his wife, desires the prayers of the congregation for his safety.”
Scripture: II Timothy 2:8
Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David—that is my gospel, for which I suffer hardship, even to the point of being chained like a criminal.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon When Your World Stops delivered on Christian Crusaders November 21, 2004.
We hear Paul the Apostle say in the book of Romans, “What are we to say then about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not also with him give us everything else?” Then he goes on to say, “I believe that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ.” He was willing to lay down his life for us. God was willing to say, “Go and rescue my people, I love them.” Surely you and I can count upon Him to hear our prayers and lift us up when our world gets stopped.
About ChristianCrusaders.org
Help Christian Crusaders spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ by posting a link to ChristianCrusaders.org from your own personal or business website! Encourage your church to post a link as well. In this way, you can also become a part of the mission to proclaim Jesus Christ and enable Christian Crusaders’ listeners to hear the most important message in the world!
On the Light Side
During the worship service, Rev. Brown asked for parishioners to write their prayer concerns down and hand them to the usher. When they were brought forward, the nearsighted minister glanced at the note that Mrs. Jones sent. The note read, “Bill Jones having gone to sea, his wife desires the prayers of the congregation for his safety.
Failing to note the punctuation, Rev. Brown startled his audience by announcing, “Bill Jones, having gone to see his wife, desires the prayers of the congregation for his safety.”
Friday, October 7, 2011
What If?
Christians often talk about peace, joy, comfort, and forgiveness. However, having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ can also cause suffering and hardship. In this week’s sermon, we will discuss what it means to suffer for our Christian faith, and how to prepare for that suffering.
Scripture: I Peter 3:13-18
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to given an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit . . .
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon Stress delivered on Christian Crusaders March 21, 2004.
To be faithful in our Christian witness can often cause stress, but Jesus teaches us how to handle this stress. He does not tell us to work at adopting more moderate views in our Christian witness. No, instead we are to remain strong, and when those hours of stress come, listen to what he says in his Word.
A Quick Way to Start Your Day on an Uplifting Note
ChristianCrusaders.org features a daily devotion, front and center on the site’s home page, where you can immediately find food for spiritual thought anytime you need it. Then visit the Faith Links page for further Bible helps!
On the Light Side
A young woman went to her doctor complaining of pain. “Where are you hurting?” asked the doctor.
“You have to help me, I hurt all over,” said the woman.
“What do you mean all over?” asked the doctor, “You must be a little more specific.”
The woman touched her right knee with her index finger and yelled, “Ouch! That hurts.” Then she touched her left cheek and again yelled, “Ouch! That hurts, too.” Then she touched her right earlobe, “Ouch! Even THAT hurts,” she cried.
The doctor checked her thoughtfully for a moment and then gave her his diagnosis, “You have a broken finger.”
Scripture: I Peter 3:13-18
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to given an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit . . .
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon Stress delivered on Christian Crusaders March 21, 2004.
To be faithful in our Christian witness can often cause stress, but Jesus teaches us how to handle this stress. He does not tell us to work at adopting more moderate views in our Christian witness. No, instead we are to remain strong, and when those hours of stress come, listen to what he says in his Word.
A Quick Way to Start Your Day on an Uplifting Note
ChristianCrusaders.org features a daily devotion, front and center on the site’s home page, where you can immediately find food for spiritual thought anytime you need it. Then visit the Faith Links page for further Bible helps!
On the Light Side
A young woman went to her doctor complaining of pain. “Where are you hurting?” asked the doctor.
“You have to help me, I hurt all over,” said the woman.
“What do you mean all over?” asked the doctor, “You must be a little more specific.”
The woman touched her right knee with her index finger and yelled, “Ouch! That hurts.” Then she touched her left cheek and again yelled, “Ouch! That hurts, too.” Then she touched her right earlobe, “Ouch! Even THAT hurts,” she cried.
The doctor checked her thoughtfully for a moment and then gave her his diagnosis, “You have a broken finger.”
Friday, September 23, 2011
Respect for Authority
We enjoy our freedom. However, we can take our freedom too far and lose respect for authority and our leaders. In this week’s sermon, the book of I Peter will help us learn about living in submission to our rulers, even when they are unjust, and how it also applies to our homes.
Scripture: I Peter 2:13-17
Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon The Voice of Authority delivered on Christian Crusaders January 30, 2000.
Our impression of the authoritative voice is often wrong. We feel that it takes something away from our freedom. Let me assure you that God's voice of authority enriches our lives by giving us security, peace and hope. Think of His promises. He will forgive us our sins and restore us into a living relationship with our Heavenly Father. He will strengthen us when we need help for difficult tasks. Those words that He speaks to us are words of authority. They are sure.
Christian Crusaders 75th Anniversary Celebration
You are cordially invited to attend Christian Crusaders’ 75th anniversary celebration on Sunday, September 25 from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m. at Nazareth Lutheran Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Emcee for the afternoon will be former KWWL meteorologist Craig Johnson, and speakers will include our radio pastors: Rev. Homer Larsen and Rev. Steve Kramer. The afternoon will also include special music. A reception will follow.
Help celebrate a milestone in the history of this ministry if you are able. We look forward to seeing you there!
On the Light Side
Since all the kids have all their little codes, like BFF, AFK, and LOL, here are some codes for seniors:
ATD – At the Doctor's
BFF – Best Friend’s Funeral
BTW – Bring the Wheelchair
BYOT¬ Bring Your Own Teeth
CBM – Covered by Medicare
CUATSC – See You at the Senior Center
FWIW – Forgot Where I Was
FYI – Found Your Insulin
GGPBL - Gotta Go, Pacemaker Battery Low
GHA – Got Heartburn Again
HGBM – Had Good Bowel Movement
IMHO – Is My Hearing-Aid On?
LMDO – Laughing My Dentures Out
LOL – Living on Lipitor
LWO – Lawrence Welk’s On
ROFL . . . CGU – Rolling on the Floor Laughing . . . Can't get Up!
WAITT – Who Am I Talking To?
WWNO – Walker Wheels Need Oil
WTP – Where’s the Prunes
GGLKI – Gotta Go, Laxative Kicking in!
Scripture: I Peter 2:13-17
Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon The Voice of Authority delivered on Christian Crusaders January 30, 2000.
Our impression of the authoritative voice is often wrong. We feel that it takes something away from our freedom. Let me assure you that God's voice of authority enriches our lives by giving us security, peace and hope. Think of His promises. He will forgive us our sins and restore us into a living relationship with our Heavenly Father. He will strengthen us when we need help for difficult tasks. Those words that He speaks to us are words of authority. They are sure.
Christian Crusaders 75th Anniversary Celebration
You are cordially invited to attend Christian Crusaders’ 75th anniversary celebration on Sunday, September 25 from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m. at Nazareth Lutheran Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Emcee for the afternoon will be former KWWL meteorologist Craig Johnson, and speakers will include our radio pastors: Rev. Homer Larsen and Rev. Steve Kramer. The afternoon will also include special music. A reception will follow.
Help celebrate a milestone in the history of this ministry if you are able. We look forward to seeing you there!
On the Light Side
Since all the kids have all their little codes, like BFF, AFK, and LOL, here are some codes for seniors:
ATD – At the Doctor's
BFF – Best Friend’s Funeral
BTW – Bring the Wheelchair
BYOT¬ Bring Your Own Teeth
CBM – Covered by Medicare
CUATSC – See You at the Senior Center
FWIW – Forgot Where I Was
FYI – Found Your Insulin
GGPBL - Gotta Go, Pacemaker Battery Low
GHA – Got Heartburn Again
HGBM – Had Good Bowel Movement
IMHO – Is My Hearing-Aid On?
LMDO – Laughing My Dentures Out
LOL – Living on Lipitor
LWO – Lawrence Welk’s On
ROFL . . . CGU – Rolling on the Floor Laughing . . . Can't get Up!
WAITT – Who Am I Talking To?
WWNO – Walker Wheels Need Oil
WTP – Where’s the Prunes
GGLKI – Gotta Go, Laxative Kicking in!
Friday, September 16, 2011
Don't Worry
Are you a worry wart? Most of us have our moments of worry. We worry about our children, our parents, our health, and our finances, thinking of the worst possible scenarios. Worry does not help us escape evil, but instead makes us ill prepared to cope when evil comes. In this week’s sermon, we will talk about what Jesus taught regarding our concerns for the future.
Scripture: Matthew 6:25-34
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon A Favorite for When You Can't Sleep delivered on Christian Crusaders August 26, 2007.
God loves you. If you have trouble believing that, look at the cross. We were lost in our sins, far from God. God loved you so much he gave his Son Jesus Christ to pay the penalty for your sins, so that the relationship that was broken might be mended, and you could become a child of your heavenly Father. You are loved. God loves you. Paul discovered that, and millions of others have since, as they have come to know Christ and place their trust in him. Are you lying awake at night? Hand it over. Hand over that list. Take your worries list, turn it into your prayer list, and empty your heart to God.
Christian Crusaders 75th Anniversary Celebration
You are cordially invited to attend Christian Crusaders’ 75th anniversary event on Sunday, September 25 from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m. at Nazareth Lutheran Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Emcee for the afternoon will be former KWWL meteorologist Craig Johnson, and speakers will include our radio pastors: Rev. Homer Larsen and Rev. Steve Kramer. The afternoon will also include special music. A reception will follow.
Help celebrate a milestone in the history of this ministry if you are able. We look forward to seeing you there!
On the Light Side
Fresh out of business school, a young man answered a want ad for an accountant. Now he was being interviewed by a very nervous man who ran a small business that he had started himself. “I need someone with an accounting degree,” the man said. “But mainly, I'm looking for someone to do my worrying for me.”
“Excuse me?” the accountant said.
“I worry about a lot of things,” the man said. “But I don’t want to have to worry about money. Your job will be to take all the money worries off my back.”
“I see,” the accountant said. “And how much does the job pay?”
“I’ll start you at eighty thousand.”
“Eighty thousand dollars!” the accountant exclaimed. “How can such a small business afford a sum that large?”
“That,” the owner said, “is your first worry.”
Scripture: Matthew 6:25-34
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon A Favorite for When You Can't Sleep delivered on Christian Crusaders August 26, 2007.
God loves you. If you have trouble believing that, look at the cross. We were lost in our sins, far from God. God loved you so much he gave his Son Jesus Christ to pay the penalty for your sins, so that the relationship that was broken might be mended, and you could become a child of your heavenly Father. You are loved. God loves you. Paul discovered that, and millions of others have since, as they have come to know Christ and place their trust in him. Are you lying awake at night? Hand it over. Hand over that list. Take your worries list, turn it into your prayer list, and empty your heart to God.
Christian Crusaders 75th Anniversary Celebration
You are cordially invited to attend Christian Crusaders’ 75th anniversary event on Sunday, September 25 from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m. at Nazareth Lutheran Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Emcee for the afternoon will be former KWWL meteorologist Craig Johnson, and speakers will include our radio pastors: Rev. Homer Larsen and Rev. Steve Kramer. The afternoon will also include special music. A reception will follow.
Help celebrate a milestone in the history of this ministry if you are able. We look forward to seeing you there!
On the Light Side
Fresh out of business school, a young man answered a want ad for an accountant. Now he was being interviewed by a very nervous man who ran a small business that he had started himself. “I need someone with an accounting degree,” the man said. “But mainly, I'm looking for someone to do my worrying for me.”
“Excuse me?” the accountant said.
“I worry about a lot of things,” the man said. “But I don’t want to have to worry about money. Your job will be to take all the money worries off my back.”
“I see,” the accountant said. “And how much does the job pay?”
“I’ll start you at eighty thousand.”
“Eighty thousand dollars!” the accountant exclaimed. “How can such a small business afford a sum that large?”
“That,” the owner said, “is your first worry.”
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