Hi Friends!
But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person. 19 For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. 20 These are what defile a person. But to eat with unwashed hands does not defile anyone.” (Matt. 15:18-20 ESV)
Once again we were challenged in this morning’s One Year Bible reading with the words of Jesus. The Pharisees were so concerned about externals – about rule keeping, and looking righteous outwardly. Their idea of what defiled people was upside down. Jesus was masterful at setting them straight! But He’s also masterful at settingus straight. What people need… what people have always needed… is heart change! And not just a fixing of the heart, like a bypass surgery, but a total heart transplant! And Jesus Christ is the only One who can do that. He can replace our defiled hearts with pure hearts as we call upon Him in repentance and faith. So, how’s your heart today? Are you in need of a transplant?
I was so privileged this week to spend a few days at Cannon Beach at the Spurgeon Fellowship Pastors Conference. It was a blessing to go with Randy Waldie, and meet up with Tony Villanueva there, and to hear four powerful messages from Alistair Begg on the book of 2 Timothy. We also had deeply meaningful times of prayer and worship in song. It truly was a time of spiritual and physical refreshment. Thanks for those of you who were praying for that.
This Sunday it will be a joy to hear from Gregg Combs, who is teaching our Men’s Leadership Class on Monday nights. His sermon will be on, “The Hope of the World is the Local Church.” He will be encouraging each of us to do our part in helping the church be all it can be. Please be praying for the Lord to speak to each of us through His Word on Sunday.
Sunday evening at 5:30 will be “Singspiration” at FBC. Everyone is invited. Other area Evangelical churches are being invited as well. Come enjoy the music and worship, and you are encouraged to bring cookies to share!
Also please be sure and mark your calendars for the Sunday Feelin’ concert on SATURDAY, Feb. 8, 5:30pm at FBC. Not only will this be great music, as it always is, but also a fundraiser for Child Evangelism Fellowship, a ministry that is near to many of our hearts. There will be no charge for the concert, but an offering will be taken. Please plan to be here for a great concert, and prayerfully consider a generous gift for CEF.
Thankful for a new heart today!
Love From Your Pastor,
Michael