Church News

One of the most neglected symbols of the church is the empty tomb.
With the launch sequence of Christmas already counting down, we are familiarized again with the symbols of: the manger, the shepherds, the wise men, the angels, etc. Then there’s the reason Jesus Christ came into this world: the cross.
Where would we be without the empty tomb? It is our symbol of victory. I Corinthians 15:16 reminds us: “If Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; you are yet in your sins (KJV).”

When do we most often cry out to God?
Usually it is in time of great need or distress. It often happens when we have had a personal loss, financial loss or perhaps a death or illness.
Belief in God during hard times is a normal human attribute. I inherently believe even atheists, deep down, realize this whole thing isn’t one big mistake and that God does exist.
It is certainly fine to call out to God when we are in distress, but how important is it for us to do the same during good times, too?

The book of Job is truly an amazing story.
I often wonder how people say the Bible isn’t true or that it’s been changed or man-made.
Such rich stories are hard to fathom being anything than other than God’s holy word in my opinion.
I try and relate the plight of Job to my own life.
How many times have I experienced failure or loss or problems in general and asked God why me?
Job was a devout servant of God.
He was powerful, successful and had many possessions and a large family.

Much of the Old Testament reveals how many times the children of Israel strayed away from God by worshiping idols.
Idolatry is basically the idea of placing faith in things created by man rather than things created by God.
You hopefully remember the golden calf, baals, etc.  Are we much different?  It’s easy to place faith in our own accomplishments, our fine homes, jobs, cars — perhaps even our giant church buildings.