Just A Thought Page


Niagara Falls, New York Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church
166 59th Street, Niagara Falls, New York 14304 -3812 , ( 716 ) 283 - 5744(Office), (716) 283-5744(Fax)

Pastor Peck Just A Thought at Bacon Memorial (Weekly)
November 16, 2008 33rd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Welcome to The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York. We are a community of faith, journeying into the future with Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord. We ask all who read this page, to consider joining us on Sunday’s for worship at 10:30 AM, as we grow in faith and number. We are also adding programs throughout the month for fellowship times. November 16th ushers us closer to the season of Advent. The Gospel this week is from Matthew 25:14-30. Jesus tells the classic story or parable of the talents. How we use and share back with God what we possess, helps us in our faithfulness to God. Christ’s death on Calvary has freed our souls from sin and eternal death, and given us a heart with the ability to love. JOIN US TO WORSHIP, LEARN AND, GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
November 09, 2008 32cd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Welcome to The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York. We are a community of faith, journeying into the future with Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord. We ask all who read this page, to consider joining us on Sunday’s for worship at 10:30 AM, and throughout the month for fellowship times. November 9th brings us closer to the season of Advent. Especially with the reading of the Gospel. In Matthew 25, Jesus tells the story or parable of ten bridesmaids and their lamps. Five were wise and had additional oil with them, while the remaining five came without extra fuel, and their lamps went out. The question is, will we be prepared for the second Advent of Jesus Christ? Christ’s death on Calvary has freed our souls from sin and eternal death, and given us a heart with the ability to love. JOIN US TO WORSHIP, LEARN AND, GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
November 02, 2008 All Saints Day Welcome to The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York. We are a community of faith, journeying into the future with Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord. We ask all who read this page, to consider joining us on Sunday’s for worship at 10:30 AM, and throughout the month for fellowship times. This final week of October finds the Church celebrating “All Saints’ Day.” The Gospel reading for All Saints’ Day is from Matthew 5:1-12. This section of the Gospel finds Jesus on a mountain describing the many who are blessed. As we contemplate this day in the life of the Church, we look back and see family and, friends who have left us for their eternal reward. Christ’s death on Calvary has freed our souls from sin and eternal death, and given us a heart with the ability to love. JOIN US TO WORSHIP, LEARN AND, GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
October 26, 2008 30th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Welcome to The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York. We are a community of faith, journeying into the future with Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord. We ask all who read this page, to consider joining us on Sunday’s for worship at 10:30 AM, and throughout the month for fellowship times. This week, our Gospel from Matthew 22:34-46, is about the task and gift of obedience to God. Christ’s death on Calvary has freed our souls from sin and eternal death, and given us a heart with the ability to love. Our task is to use this love toward others, that they also may desire to follow God’s mercy and grace. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
October 19, 2008 29th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Welcome to The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York Our faith community looks to the future with faith, hope and, love to our God through the holy name of Jesus Christ. This coming Sunday, our Gospel from Matthew chapter 22:15-22, Jesus makes a clear distinction between what belongs to the tings of this world, and what belongs to God. When we are tied up with the world, our vision is blurred, and our allegiance to God diminishes. When listening is done with the heart in the context of God’s love, forgiveness changes our behavior and direction of life.. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
October 12, 2008 28th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Welcome to The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York Our faith community looks to the future with faith, hope and, love to our God through the holy name of Jesus Christ. This coming Sunday, our Gospel from Matthew chapter 22:1-14, is a beautiful picture of the believer’s future. Jesus describes the kingdom of heaven to a wedding banquet, filled with guests from the street. When listening is done with the heart in the context of God’s love, forgiveness changes our behavior and direction of life.. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
October 05, 2008 27th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Welcome to The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York Our faith community looks to the future with faith, hope and, love to our God through the holy name of Jesus Christ. This coming Sunday, is World Communion Sunday. The specific time of the year, when Christians acknowledge world wide our oneness in Jesus Christ, the Crucified. Because of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, we are the Church in the world. We will look at our passage from Matthew chapter 21:33-46. . When listening is done in the context of God’s love, forgiveness changes our behavior. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
September 28, 2008 26th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Welcome to The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York Our faith community looks to the future with faith, hope and, love to our God through the holy name of Jesus Christ. This coming Sunday, 28 September, will see us looking at the teaching of Jesus in Matthew chapter 21. Our Lord teaches us about being sent into the vineyard of the world, to offer repentance and faith. The question is, will we respond with a yes? Relationship with Christ demands that our actions match our intentions. When listening is done in the context of God’s love, forgiveness changes our behavior. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
September 21, 2008 25th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you to faith and hope for the future, in the holy name of Jesus Christ. This coming Sunday, 21 September, our Presbyterian Women will participate in our service. Presbyterian Women nationally have been celebrating twenty years of reunion with their sisters of faith from both north and south. This reunion came about when the Northern and Southern branches of the Presbyterian Church came back together. The two branches were separated as a result of the Civil War. When listening is done in the context of God’s love, forgiveness changes our behavior. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
September 14, 2008 24th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you to faith and hope for the future, in the holy name of Jesus Christ. This coming Sunday, 14 September, our Gospel is from Matthew 18. In this section of God’s Word, Jesus through a parable, or earthly story with a heavenly meaning, teaches about forgiveness. Though dividing walls of hostility exist outside, within the walls of the sanctuary of God’s house there is peace passed among brothers and sisters of faith. When listening is done in the context of God’s love, forgiveness changes our behavior. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
September 07, 2008 23rd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you in the saving name of Jesus Christ. This coming Sunday, 7 September, we have a different twist from the Gospel. Matthew chapter 18:15-20, opens a teaching by our Savior about addressing the sins of others. An area in which most committed Christians feel like they are on shaky ground. When two come together in the Lord’s name, God is present. When there are differences of opinion, and conflict, let it be known, and in God’s presence listen to one another. When listening is done in the context of God’s love, perceptions change, causing different behavior. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
August 31, 2008 22cd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you in the saving name of Jesus Christ. On Sunday 31 August, our Gospel from Matthew chapter 16, teaches us about discipleship. One day our Lord is returning, and will reward everyone according to the deeds they have done. Jesus said, “what does it profit, if you gain the whole world, but loose your soul?” We are called to take up our cross and follow Jesus. To follow Christ does tend to change perceptions. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
August 24, 2008 21ST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you in the glorious name of Jesus Christ. On Sunday 24 August, our Gospel from Matthew chapter 16, which teaches us that the Church and, Kingdom of God may appear to be topsy-turvy to some. What appears on the surface, isn’t always the way God is planning the future. To follow Christ does tend to change perceptions. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
August 17, 2008 20TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you in the glorious name of Jesus Christ. On Sunday 17 August, our Gospel from Matthew chapter 15, which teaches us about the faith of parents for their children. A Canaanite woman, being a non-Jew was considered not worthy of “the bread of new life,” asked Jesus to heal her ill daughter. Willing to receive even the smallest amount of life Jesus can offer her, our Lord observes true faith. The daughter is healed, teaching us that those who hunger for the truth, will find God more than adequate to sustain them through whatever their life needs are. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
August 10, 2008 19TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you in the glorious name of Jesus Christ. On Sunday 10 August, our Gospel from Matthew chapter 14, instructs us, that even as Christians, life is often like a storm-tossed sea. Like Peter, risking the waves, we venture forth, seeking to be faithful to Christ, as he bids us to follow, even as the winds rises, the waves lick our feet, and we panic. Doubts emerge like clouds, hiding the horizon and with it the hope of reaching a haven. Then the hand of Christ reaches out with a grip of security, and assurance is given: Have no fear. COME, and find in Jesus that all of life’s needs can be solved, and you can live each day easier than when you tried to do it alone. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
August 03 , 2008 18TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you in the glorious name of Jesus Christ. On Sunday 3 August, we learn from the Gospel of Matthew, how Jesus showers compassion on all God’s children, especially those who are helpless, and unable to do for themselves. We see how capable our Lord is to meet every need. Our need may be physical, emotional, or spiritual, but Christ’s power is sufficient. COME, and find in Jesus that all of life’s needs can be solved, and you can live each day easier than when you tried to do it alone. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
July 27, 2008 17TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you in the saving name of Jesus Christ. On Sunday 27 July, we learn from the Gospel of Matthew, how Jesus effectively used parables or, earthly stories with a divine meaning to accomplish God’s will. Throughout the New Testament, we hear of God’s love expressed in Jesus Christ. A love which fills our hearts, and removes all fear of condemnation. Much like a couple in love, God whispers, I love you. COME, and find in Jesus that your problems are solved, and you can live each day easier than when you tried to do it alone. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
July 20, 2008 16TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Reverend Peck is on a well desrved vacation and this will continue after this last week of vacation. We all here at Bacon memorial wish Reverend Peck a fun vacation.
July 13, 2008 15TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Reverend Peck is on a well desrved vacation and this will continue after his two week vacation. We all here at Bacon memorial wish Reverend Peck a fun vacation.
July 06, 2008 14TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you in the saving name of Jesus Christ. On Sunday 6 July, our church will celebrate worship with Holy Communion, and remember our nation’s Independence Day. We thank God for our freedom in Jesus Christ our Savior. We also thank God for our nation and those who fought to make, and keep it free. As we read and hear the Gospel proclaimed, we hear our Savior calling us to come to Him. He is the One who gives us true rest and peace for life’s journey. COME, and find in Jesus that your problems are solved, and you can live each day easier than when you tried to do it alone. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
June 29, 2008 13TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you in the saving name of Jesus Christ. On Sunday 29 June, our church will celebrate worship, by honoring our graduates. We thank God for our young people, and the accomplishments they are beginning to make in life. As we read and hear the Gospel proclaimed, we learn once again, that what we do in ministry in the name of Jesus receives great reward from God. We are continually called to bear the cross with Jesus to our world. Though at times it limits peripheral vision, creates problems, yet our Lord has promised never to leave us nor forsake us. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
June 22, 2008 12TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you in the saving name of Jesus Christ. On Sunday 22 June, our church will celebrate worship, by honoring our choir. We praise God for our choir members, and our Music Director, Carol Ennis, who throughout the year help to lead us to the throne of God. As we read and hear the Gospel proclaimed, we learn once again, that there is no need for the people of God to fear, since nothing is hidden from God. What was hidden is now made know, what once was whispered is now shouted. Two sparrows are worth a penny, yet God is aware of their fate. How much more will God, who knows the number of hairs on our head, take care of us. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
June 15, 2008 11TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Welcome to Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church. On this Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, we look again at the redeeming love of God. A love which gave Sarah and Abraham at their advanced age a son. We will look at Jesus instructions, as He sends out the Twelve to heal others. A ministry which continues in the Church of Christ today world wide. Walking with God, always looks at a different path in which we develop both character and hope. A path which moves which moves us away from our interests, and comfort zones. A path which follows the Crucified One. Join us, as together we discover where God is both leading the Church, and each individual disciple of Christ. ALL ARE WARMLY WELCOMED!
June 08, 2008 10TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME The Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church of Niagara Falls, New York welcomes you in the saving name of Jesus Christ. In our readings from Scripture on Sunday 9th June, we will hear of the promises of God, and hear of God’s wonderful acts in fulfilling His promises. Our Lord crosses all sorts of obstacles to bring healing to our bodies, minds, and hearts. A Jewish woman, sick for twelve years, castrated from her community is restored. The daughter of the president of a synagogue is restored to her parents. God promised never to leave us, nor forsake us. On our part, we need to raise our faith, and claim the promises of God. Those promises are there for us to embellish our lives with hope, and wholeness. Reach out today, and find God there for you. JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
June 1, 2008 9TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Welcome friends to the Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church. We have now entered into the “green season.” Environmentalists call us to celebrate green in all that we do in life. However, celebrating green, started with God many thousands of years ago. The Scripture readings this coming Sunday, June 1, reflect “green.” From Genesis we read of Noah building the ark, after which comes a new growth of vegetation on the earth, and a new spiritual growth for the human race. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches the crowds about the kingdom of heaven. A teaching which reflects our own need to grow spiritually. With green paraments in the sanctuary, and readings from God’s Word, we will begin a season of learning how to grow spiritually, JOIN US TO LEARN AND GROW IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
May 18, 2008 Trinity Sunday As the Church of Jesus Christ, we have now liturgically completed the Easter season. We have celebrated Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit, and Birthday of the Church. Sunday, 18 May will find us celebrating Trinity Sunday. With Jesus commissioning the Apostles to make disciples throughout the world, we enter into a new phase of the church, called Ordinary Time. This period is marked by the use of green paraments. Green in the Church meaning, spiritual growth. COME AND GROW WITH US at Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church.
May 11, 2008 Day of Pentecost and Mothers Day Sunday, 11 May will find us with a full Service of Worship at Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church. It is Pentecost, when we celebrate the birthday of the Church, the coming of the Holy Spirit. We will also honor our mothers that day, and celebrate Confirmation on four of our young people. A spirited worship experience, in the presence of our living God. Our lessons from God’s Word, will include readings from Acts 2:1-21, 1 Corinthians 12:3-13, and John 20:19-23. We will hear how the Holy Spirit descended in power upon the early church, and filled everyone with power to witness in the world. St. Paul will share the gifts given to believers to share personal witness of Christ. And, we will hear portions of the Acts reading in various ethnic tongues, per haps, even experiencing what the world heard on the first Day of Pentecost. PLEASE JOIN US FOR WORSHIP.
May 04, 2008 Ascension of the Lord On Sunday, May 4, we will celebrate Ascension Sunday. The time we remember our Savior returning to heaven, with the promise of the Holy Spirit. According to Luke 24, this promise of the Spirit, included Jesus commissioning of the disciples to stay in Jerusalem for the arrival of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost. The Ascension of the Lord, is not only a great fact fo the New Testament, but a great factor in the life of Christ and Christians. No complete view of Jesus Christ is possible unless the Ascension and its consequences are included. To show its importance, the Amish set the Ascension as the holiest day of the year for their faith. The Ascension is the consummation of Christ’s redemptive work. Join us on Sunday for worship at 10:30.
April 27, 2008 6th SUNDAY OF EASTER Our journey through this life, is often filled with fears. Fears of the unknown; fears of what people say about us; fears of accomplishing a good performance; and the fear of following our Lord in a way which pleases Him. As we approach Pentecost Sunday, the “Birthday of the Church,” we begin to hear from Scripture, that we are not to worship idols, that is permit anything to take top priority in our lives, over God. We hear that we are saved by Christ, and as we journey on, we not to fear. All this is wrapped in the Words of Jesus from John 14, where He tells us, when we keep His commandments, the Father will send an Advocate. The Advocate is the Holy Spirit, the third Person of the Holy Trinity. Daily place your life in the hands of our loving God. Know that the Holy Spirit “remains with you and is in you.” (John 14:20) Friends, there is no greater assurance than to know that God is daily guiding our lives with love and grace.
April 20, 2008 5th SUNDAY OF EASTER We are nearing the end of the Easter Season. Following the Ascension of our Lord, we will begin the Season of Pentecost. As with our Scripture readings this next Sunday, we can either reject our Lord Jesus, and the leading of the Holy Spirit, or be filled with new life. As part of a living, witnessing community of faith, we should be asking ourselves, who are we? Where is God leading us? Can I give myself for the sake of the truth of the Gospel to express my freedom from sin and my past? As we are nourished by the spiritual milk of God’s Word, we grow into Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life. Join hands with your Elders, Deacons and Interim Pastor as God’s face shines upon us, and we grow into salvation, and faithful service.
April 13, 2008 4th SUNDAY OF EASTER Time moves more quickly than we realize. With next Sunday, we will be two-thirds the way through the Easter Season. Three thousand people have been added to the Church, and policies are developed to assist one another. As the number of believers grows, so does the persecution from various sources. From our Sunday readings, we learn how the believing community sold their goods, shared their meals, and praised the Lord together. “One Lord, on faith, one baptism, one.” Is how St. Paul pictured the early Church (Ephesians 4:5). In the Gospel for the morning, Jesus Himself describes those who may enter the sheepfold. Sheepfold being a synonym for the church. How different are we, the church in the 21st century, from the church of the 1st century? Think about it.
April 06, 2008 3rd SUNDAY OF EASTER On this Third Sunday of Easter, we find Jesus appearing to additional followers. On the road to Emmaus, Jesus appears to two who are talking about Christ rising from the dead, but are unsure of its truth. Then, as He breaks bread with them, their eyes were opened, and they recognized Jesus. In both our Acts 2, and 1 Peter 1 readings, the Apostle Peter calls people to repent, be baptized since Jesus Christ has been made Lord and Messiah. Through His blood shed for us, as the Lamb of God, we are born anew, and are to live in the reverent fear of God and in love for others. Join us for worship, as we continue to pursue real stories of our Lord’s resurrection. “He lives, He lives, He lives within my heart.”
March 30, 2008 2nd SUNDAY OF EASTER Woven into the fabric of our Christian faith, is the fact that God in Jesus is alive. Death on the cross, the grave with a large stone rolled across the entrance, even death itself could not hold Him back. He appeared to His followers, though many saw Him with disbelief. Evidences soon broke away into solid belief. Belief in the resurrection is pivotal to all that we are as Christians. Next Sunday, we will understand one of Christ’s disciples, who broke from his disbelief, and became a committed, ardent follower of the Lord. We will understand what it means to hear the words of our Savior, Peace be with you! Join us for worship and fellowship at Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church.
March 23, 2008 EASTER RESURRECTION OF THE LORD The glorious Day of Resurrection is upon us. This coming Sunday we will celebrate Jesus returning from the dead. Alleluia! He did it. He traveled through Holy Week, performing miracles, and then gave His life as a sacrifice for our sins on Calvary. But the grave and death could not hold Him down. God raised Christ from the dead, and will also raise us, if we believe. In our first reading Sunday, Peter preaches the sum of the Gospel. Join us as we celebrate resurrection faith. Bring your family and friends. Begin a new pattern of life each Sunday morning. A BLESSED RESURRECTION DAY.
March 16, 2008 PASSION/PALM SUNDAY On Sunday, March 16th we will celebrate Passion or Palm Sunday. As we reflect upon that holy day, we can see in our mind's eye, garments and branches spread on the road ahead of Jesus. The way was prepared, fulfilling the promise of Scripture. The king indeed came “on a colt, the foal of an ass.” amid shouts of “Hosanna” and blessings, the prophet of Nazareth entered Jerusalem, acclaimed as a king. As the streets were cleared and the cheering subsided, a drama unfolded that even today grips the hearts of the crowds. The events of Palm Sunday usher in Holy Week. A week filled with deep emotion for Jesus, and those who followed Him. In our hearts and minds, let us follow Jesus on the way of the cross. Down the Via Della Rosa, to Golgotha and once again acknowledge the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for us.
March 9, 2008 5th SUNDAY IN LENT On this Fifth Sunday in Lent, we find ourselves with another long Gospel reading. However, in order to understand the reading, we must hear the whole Gospel. It is the Gospel of life, by trusting in Jesus Christ as our Savior. From Ezekiel 37, we are again reminded, it is God who is in charge of life, and can rattle our bones back into shape, and create new life. We are moving closer to the reality of Jesus’ death for the sins of the world. A death which yields for each believer salvation from sin, and the bondage which sin holds over us. Of course, we can not leave Jesus in the grave, for His life is much more powerful than death, there must follow His resurrection. His resurrection, like that of His friend Lazarus, reminds us of the life God desires that we each live and enjoy.
March 2, 2008 4th SUNDAY IN LENT Sunday, March 2nd welcomes the Fourth Sunday in Lent. Following the instructions of God, Samuel the priest, anoints David as the next King of Israel. A lowly shepherd boy will become head of the nation of Israel. God shows us how He is always surprising us, and causing us to be His servants to others. In our Gospel, John 9, Jesus heals a man who was born blind. New life lies ahead for this person, as he begins to follow God’s will for him. We have seen throughout Lent, how God changes lives , so in a trusting way, we are made better believers. This is why St. Paul in Ephesians 5 instructs us to live as children of light. As believers, we are God’s chosen leaders here on earth.
February 24, 2008 3 rd SUNDAY IN LENT How time flies, we are already half way through our Lenten Journey, this Sunday, February 24th. Our Old Testament reading, tells how the Israelites treated Moses because they were thirsty. Moses lead them to the water God was providing, which caused them to prevail on their wilderness journey. In the Gospel, John 4, Jesus indicates that there is water available from God which meets our spiritual thirst. When we come to Jesus, and drink of the water he supplies, we find by faith in him that there is peace and salvation. God justifies our faith, and provides for our spiritual sustenance. Friends, continue to pray, read the Scriptures, journey by faith in the Crucified Jesus. God bless you, as you journey forward.
February 17, 2008 2 cd SUNDAY IN LENT On our Second Sunday in Lent, February 17, we will be looking at John 3:1-17. This section of the Gospel presents Jesus’ discourse with a Pharisee named Nicodemus. The conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus opens to us the great mysteries of the Gospel. Because of his position, a member of the Sanhedrim, the ruling Council of Jerusalem, he came to Jesus at night. The last we hear of Nicodemus, he along with Joseph of Arimathea take the body of Jesus down from the cross, and prepare it for burial. Regardless of our position in life, when we believe in Jesus Christ, and decide to follow Him, we will accomplish for Him, what we know is God’s will for our lives. Love for the Lord, causes our lives to show forth sincerity.
February 10, 2008 1 ST SUNDAY IN LENT We have arrived at the First Sunday in Lent. Now we begin a journey with Jesus, as He aims of His thoughts, and energy to the cross on Golgatha. Each follower will understand the meaning of the cross differently for themselves. Thus, you and I come with Jesus to a mountain top apart. There we contemplate His life and death for us, and what that means for our personal future. The question we need to ask our Lord, is, What needs to be changed in my life? I want to be content, and I want to know your will for my life. The period of Lent should be marked by personal introspection, Bible reading, and prayer. These means of grace, will enhance our life, and understanding of God’s will for us. God bless you, as you journey forward.
February 3, 2008 TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD This Sunday, February 3, ushers us into the Lenten Season, which begins on Wednesday, known as Ash Wednesday. That evening at 7:00 , we will worship our God with ashes and Holy Communion. All four Gospels record the event known as Transfiguration. A one time only event in the life of Jesus, (Matthew 17:1-8). This incident before His crucifixion, is when our Lord was visibly glorified in the presence of three selected disciples. The term “transfigured,” is derived from the Latin, and is used to translate the Greek word, metamorphoo , meaning to change into another form. Much like the cocoon which yields a beautiful butterfly. Jesus was changed into a higher state, yet when crucified, felt every excruciating pain in His body. The experience of the transfiguration, gave encouragement to Jesus, as He set His face to the cross
January 27, 2008 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time This Sunday, 27 January, our Gospel reading has our Lord calling His disciples. The first believers, who will become the church, out of whom we have grown. Nearly two thousand years of discipleship. And, the natural question is, do we have it right yet? Not really. We still struggle with God’s grace and love. We struggle with forgiveness, and Christian love. We still struggle to hear our Savior’s call to follow Him wherever He leads. When Jesus began to preach, He also began to call. He began to gather around Himself, those whom He would teach, and after send out as preachers of His doctrine. When the Lord calls us to accomplish any task for Him, He also gives us the power, grace, and strength to do ministry. Every believers in Christ, has an effectual calling. A calling to place the Gospel into hearts of children, youth, and every man and woman.
January 20, 2008 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time This Sunday, 20 January, we will look at how God believes in us. Scriptures will show how God chose a disciple, whom little is known about, yet a disciple who was made complete by yielding to God. This disciple was Andrew. God has called you to be a disciple of Christ, and entrusted the Gospel to you, because God believes in you. We are little different than those early disciples who followed Jesus. Men and women who were weak, self centered, and many times real people who sinned against God, and God's people. People who shared the light of the Gospel with others, who made a difference by becaming the light of the world. Now God has entrusted to you and me, the Gospel of hope, of love and of grace. A Gospel to share with people who have lost their way in life.
January 14, 2008 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
January 7, 2008 Baptism of the Lord Following The Master As we enter the New Year, I ask you to do some visioning. Take time each week to pray, and search for the leading of the Holy Spirit to bless our church in multiple ways. We read the words of Solomon in Proverbs 29:18, “Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained .” Or as the old KJV read, “the people perish .” And the Prophet Isaiah, wrote the Words of God, “Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth …” Isaiah 43:19a. A New Year dawns, and God's love and grace continue a strong force in our personal lives, as well as in our corporate church life. As we consider visioning, there are two things you can do for our Lord Jesus Christ, and Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church. First, search your soul, and the mind of God, and BRING A FRIEND TO CHURCH. Secondly, follow the same pattern, and share with your Elders and Pastor, PROGRAM ideas which will enhance our church life together, and attract people to our church. Wherever Jesus went on this earth, He called men and women to follow Him as disciples. The call to discipleship has never been put on hold, or been cancelled. There is a wonderful story which comes out of a Smithsonian magazine, which may help us to continue to grow, and expand our horizons. The Louvre in Paris is perhaps the most famous art museum in the world. It contains on display the original art work of such masters as Delacroix, Michelangelo, Rubens, da Vinci, and many others. Since 1973, the Louvre has encouraged aspiring artists to come and copy the masters. One such artist named Amal Dagher, age 63, has been duplicating art at the Louvre for over thirty years. He remains in awe of the masters, and has said: “If you're too satisfied with yourself, you can't improve.” One way of improving our spiritual lives in 2008, along with worship and Bible study, is to reach out to others, and help them to become disciples of Jesus Christ. However, we must be the models for them. As St. Paul wrote, “Be imitators of God as dear child ren.” (Eph. 5:1) Be a visionary for Christ in 2008. Expect God to do something new for you, through you, for Bacon Memorial, and for the sake of the kingdom. Grace and peace be abundantly to you.
December 30, 2007 = 1st Sunday after Christmas God continues to break unannounced into our world. What experiences, and voices do you recognize as belonging to our Savior? Happy Journey.
December 23, 2007 = Fourth Sunday In Advent Advent/Christmas: Week 4 As we reconnect with the true meaning of Christmas this week, lets do something different. Try to sing the beloved Christmas carols with more gusto, and take time to really look at your Nativity set, letting it speak to you. Permit the birth of Christ to bring hope and healing to you and your loved ones. Each day this week, expect the unexpected joy which can be found in God's gift of love and salvation in Jesus Christ. God of grace, you chose the Virgin Mary, full of grace, to be the mother of our Lord and Savior. Now fill us with your grace, that with her, we may rejoice in your salvation, and in all things, embrace your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
December 16, 2007 = Third Sunday In Advent Advent Preparation: Week 3 One of the most difficult tasks, which we encounter today as believers, is simply waiting in silence. God calls us to create stillness in the season of Advent. A sure way to reduce the hustle and bustle of the Advent/Christmas season, is to Be still and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10). Make an effort to be less stressful and more spiritual through your few minutes each day with the Lord. During your quiet time, open your heart, and make more room for the Christ Child. Focus on a simple word, then offer this prayer each day this week: Eternal God, you sent John the Baptist to prepare the way for the coming of your Son. Give us wisdom to see your purpose and openness to hear your will, that we too may prepare the way for Christ who is coming in power and glory to establish His kingdom of peace and justice; through Jesus Christ our Redeemer, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God forever. Amen.
December 09, 2007 = Second Sunday In Advent Advent Preparation: Week 2 Led by the Holy Spirit, the Apostle St. Paul wrote, Salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed; the night is far gone, the day is near. (Romans 13:11) Along with meditating upon your devotional reading, or reading a favorite hymn/carol, the following prayer may be helpful in slowing the pace for a few minutes, and focus thoughts upon this holy season. Faithful God, your promises stand unshaken through all generations. Renew us in hope, that we may be awake and alert watching for the glorious return of Jesus Christ, our Judge and Savior, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
December 02, 2007 = First Sunday In Advent Advent Preparation: Week 1 As we prepare for the celebration of Christ's birth, we will find ourselves racing through with busyness of the holy season. This short four weeks will pass quickly. May we suggest that you set aside just ten minutes per day to slow the pace and, contemplate the meaning of the season. By reading a short Advent devotional, an appropriate selection of Scripture, or a carol/hymn, your spirit and thoughts will be redirected. The purpose of the Advent season, will prepare you for a joyous and peaceful coming of Jesus Christ our Savior. One of the readings to start with, can be from Galatians 4:4, 5.
Sunday November 25, 2007 Sunday, December 2cd, ushers in the Advent season for all believers. We begin to realize once again, that God broke into our world, in the form of a Baby, born not in a hospital, or even a home, but in a cattle stall. And, so we begin a new liturgical year, connecting human time with sacred time. Advent, mush like Lent, is an opportunity to learn and Grace and peace be abundantly to you.
Sunday November 18, 2007 Sunday the 25th of November is designated as Christ the King Sunday. It is relatively a new “designated” Sunday, which honors Christ. This Sunday, the final day of worship before Advent begins, came to known as Christ the King only in the 20th Century. This day ushers in the earthly life of the Christ Child born in a cradle, and culminates with the Christ of Calvary. One can only imagine the thoughts of such leaders as Stalin, Hitler, and Mussolini, as this day was celebrated in the churches throughout Russia and across Europe. Join us in worship this Sunday, as we celebrate and proclaim Jesus Christ as the king of all eternity. God who came to us in human form. Let this Sunday be a new start for you, as together we begin to celebrate Advent.

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