OBEYING MEN AND SPEAKING FOR JESUS

OBEYING MEN AND SPEAKING FOR JESUS

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent His only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and His love is perfected in us (1 John 4:7-12).

As I write this message, the debate regarding the Supreme Court decision in defining marriage handed down on Friday (July 26), is raging in the coffee shops, work places, homes, restaurants, and in all form of the media. Similar to the story of Bruce Jenner who no longer wanted to remain what God created him to be. Some of these debates are calm and others turbulent. I understand all of us have passion in how we feel about this topic.

Love wins. We have seen these words in social media and in print all over the place since Friday. Words by nature are amoral. They don’t have any intrinsic moral usage apart from their context. This means words are neither moral nor immoral in and of themselves. However, context changes the morality of these words for better or for worse. If we were to use the words love wins in the context of the cross and empty tomb of Christ, no truer form of sweet Gospel could be heard. However, the words love wins as they have been used since Friday could not be farther from the truth of the Word of God.

Love wins only if it is in accordance to the inspired Word of the Lord through His Apostle Paul: “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). Love is always looking out to the other person’s benefit.

Yet, on Friday, the Supreme Court rendered a decision that, while not surprising, has forever changed the landscape of the way in which the Church will operate for the sake of the Gospel. Since that ruling there has been much ink spilled, many hours on the radio and TV have been pondered as to what this changed decision means. There are those who say that this will change nothing except giving liberty to those who didn’t have it before. On the other end of the spectrum there are those who feel that the sky is falling and that “our opponents” will be coming with their lawyer, pitchforks and torches later today to visit us.

As is often the case, the truth lies somewhere in the middle. What is worse, at this point in time there isn’t anyone who can accurately predict what will happen as a result. Anyone who tries is a false prophet or a liar. Both are to be rejected. There are some eventualities that we, as followers of Jesus in general and congregations in particular will have to consider how we move forward. At Redeemer, we saw this coming and have made some changes to our wedding policies, bylaws and other entities in the months leading up to this decision. As the dust begins to settle out legally, we may need to make other changes as well. This is yet to be seen.

However, know this: while we may have to change HOW we do the work of ministry, it will NEVER change the work itself. Before last Friday, there were billions of people on this planet, and more specifically hundreds in our own community who need the Gospel of Jesus Christ. That was long before the Supreme Court ruled. Those same people STILL need Jesus today more than ever! Our mission does not change. I, as a pastor and foot washer, will continue to proclaim the truth of the Word of God and its power as it pertains to Law and Gospel, sin and forgiveness, repentance and new life and grace and salvation. By the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, we will do this without fear in gentleness and humility. A day may come where there will be civil and criminal penalties for us to speak like this. That day has not yet come. But if it does, you have my word of promise to God and to you that I will speak the truth in love. I will go to jail if need be. I WILL NOT PERFORM ANY WEDDINGS, EXCEPT THOSE BETWEEN A MAN AND A WOMAN! God’s Word and our conscience demand this.

Here is what I ask of you. First, hear the WORD. Know what God says. Don’t settle for thinking you know what God says. Second, pray! The Lord will give you the words you need to say, gently and lovingly. Third, be quick to listen and slow to speak. You may win a greater opportunity to speak the clear truth of the Gospel by being more like Jesus in this way. Finally, don’t be afraid. When people confront you trust in God more than fearing them. This is why St. Paul told young Timothy, For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. (2 Timothy 1: 6-7)

Our world is different. Our ministry is NOT. We will preach Christ crucified. Because in Christ, and only in Christ, Love Wins! His love is real. It is this love that took our Savior to the cross to free us from the bondage of slavery to sin and the deceptive means of the evil one.

Lord, Jesus Christ, help us to be faithful to you now and always.

In Christ’s love and in His service,

Pastor Nabil Nour a Foot Washer

CALL ME

CALL ME

“Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known” (Jeremiah 33:3).

The other day I stopped over to visit with a friend and he showed me a project he was working on. I said to him, “Why didn’t you ask me to help you?” “Never thought of it,” was the response. Last Thursday (9/26) my friend called and said, “Pastor Nour, you are going to wish that you didn’t volunteer to help me.” I responded, “If I didn’t want to help I would have never offered my services. But I really do want to help and am glad you called. I will be over later to help you.”

I was able to help my friend get his project done. We had fun and thanked the Lord for the gift of friends who are willing to help when called upon, and mean what they say when it comes to assisting others. While I was helping him, the thought for this article came to mind.

In the book of Jeremiah, “God tells us to call upon Him and He will answer us.” He says, “Call Me! I am here for you! Call Me. I will help you! Call Me! I will come to your aid! Call Me and I will show you My mighty power!”

So often however, we are reluctant to call upon our Lord for help. Like my friend who said “You are going to wish you didn’t volunteer”, we treat God in the same way. We think we should go to Him only when things are completely out of our control.

But this is not what God says. “He states, “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” I call this verse God’s phone number. The good news about this verse is that God is willing and able to hear our needs 24/7/365. You will never get a busy signal. You will never need the assistance of an operator. You will never need to push 1 for English. You will never need to go through someone to get to Him. He simply says, “Call Me and I will be here for you.”

In 1967 Marvin Gaye sang this song “There Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” that made it to the top 20 on the Billboard pop charts and went on to be number 3 in the R&B charts. Here is a portion of that lyric:

Listen, baby
Ain’t no mountain high
Ain’t no valley low
Ain’t no river wide enough, baby

If you need me, call me
No matter where you are
No matter how far
Just call my name
I'll be there in a hurry
You don’ have to worry.

Indeed, that is wishful thinking. Though the song is sweet and has great lines, in truth no one is always able to help another. Call me, but I am in Israel and won’t be back for another month. It is difficult to come to the aid of another human, though we want to.

But not our Awesome, Amazing and Almighty God! The Lord of the Universe who loves us wants us to come to Him and ask Him as little children ask their father for help. He is waiting and ready to assist in any situation, be it a blessing or a burden. He is the One who is always available in time and space to come to our aid. He even goes further, teaching us of His desire for our lives, saying: “Before they call I will answer; while they are yet speaking I will hear” (Isaiah 65:24).

In one of the most beloved hymns of our time, “What A Friend We have in Jesus” written by Joseph Scriven in 1855, is a message that far outshines Marvin Gaye’s message;

What a friend we have in Jesus,
all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
all because we do not carry
everything to God in prayer.

Yes, it is true; we don’t call upon the Lord always. But we should since we are His beloved and redeemed children. And since we have a Savior, Jesus Christ who died and rose for us, we have the privilege and blessing of coming to the Lord through Him always. And when we do, God answers our every need for help. God either grants your request or He says, “I have something better planned for you!”

But He does answer, and in His loving and gracious way gives us what we need and not what we want.

Therefore, in the name of Christ, our ONLY Savior, I encourage you today and always to hear and heed the voice of the Eternal God, who says: “Call Me! I am here for you ALWAYS.”

In Christ’s love and in His service,

Rev. Nabil S. Nour, Pastor, Grandpa and Footwasher Phil. 1:6

JUST BECAUSE

JUST BECAUSE

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My Words will not pass away” Matthew 24:35

I am astonished and amazed how the Word of God is discarded, and no longer held to be true, effective and absolute. I am astonished and amazed how the majority opinion or the group that makes the loudest noise trumps the truth of the Divine Word. I am astonished and amazed that people listen to other people than the truth taught in Scripture.

But in reality, I should not be astonished and amazed, since the Apostle Paul wrote to his spiritual son Timothy saying: “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions” (2 Timothy 4:3). We are seeing this first hand more and more each day. The focus falls on what brings joy and immediate pleasure in the here and now rather than serving others. Passion rules the day rather than Christ ruling their hearts.

You have witnessed the changes of how God’s Word has been discarded and disregarded. People no longer attend worship service on a regular basis. It is not important to be in His house to feed on His Word, be nurtured and strengthened in the service to God and neighbor. What is right is viewed as wrong, and what is wrong is held as truth. And it is getting worse all the time.

In the past two weeks the number of states recognizing same-sex marriages has risen from nine to 12, with new marriage bills signed into law in Rhode Island, Delaware, and – on Tuesday (5/14/2013) – our neighboring state—Minnesota. Public polls in recent weeks confirm that more Americans than ever before accept the idea of same-sex marriage. Just because polls or people think it is right; it is not. God’s true and changeless Word said so. We, Christians, are held to a higher authority than our consciences.

Sin is no longer viewed as damning or destructive to the soul. Living contrary to God’s Word is accepted by the majority. Having a sexual relationship before marriage is no longer viewed as sinful or wrong. It is easily accepted as just another choice, as in deciding what kind of soda to reach for and open. Living together before marriage is viewed in the same way. It is not considered wrong or shameful. Abortion is held in the same way as my right to do what my passion desires; my circumstances determines right and wrong, and not God’s Word and promise.

Just because the government, Supreme Court, or the majority declare it is ok to practice unbiblical life-style, it is not right. This is a clear violation and disregard to the truth of Holy Scripture. We as Christians, can’t join the voices of the majority, but must hold on to the truth as taught in Holy Scripture.

Paul, in his letter to the Church at Corinth stated: “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

Here are the warnings of what will happen when we disregard and discard the precious Life-Giving Word of Christ that is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. This Word helps us realize what is true, and guides us in the journey of life to live for Him as His sanctified people. This Word in faith makes us His people. As His people, we live differently.

We are a unique people. We are sanctified by His blood shed on the cross of Calvary for us. This redemptive act makes us different from the world! The world may say it is permissible for you to practice all of these sinful activities, but we must hold on to the Living Word and what it states is true and right. Not everything that is permissible for you is profitable for your eternal soul!

Paul in 1 Thessalonians wrote: Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God; that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you. For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness. Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you (4:1-8).

These words inspired by the Holy Spirit and penned by Paul, are the shining light for us as Christians as we walk humbly before Him all the days of our lives. This is not only against the sins mentioned above but against all sins; because sins damns destroy and leads to death.

Just because certain groups think this life-style is right by the eyes of people, it doesn’t make it correct in the sight of God. For the Savior Himself has stated: “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My Words will not pass away” (Matthew 24:35) and again Jesus taught, “For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished” (Matthew 5:18). Notice the emphasis from the lips of Christ, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law… No matter what others say, it doesn’t make it right or acceptable in the sight of God.

I recently saw a sign that stated: “Minnesota: Where all the WOMEN are strong, the MEN are good- looking, and the MARRIAGES ARE EQUAL.” How blatantly wrong is that statement! Many have elevated and are holding on to the word of man instead of the Word of God. Christ have mercy on our nation for the way we disregard and discard His Word. Lord, have mercy.

Just because the majority opinion approves it, doesn’t make it right. What is right is not always popular and what is popular is not always right. Repentance is the order of the day. This repentance will lead us to confess and cling to the Holy Truth that marriage is one man and one woman for life. This is defined not by a legislature or legal system. It is the truth of the One who designed the whole system in eternity, God Himself!

It is the right time to get down on our knees and pray to God to open the eyes of the blind, soften the hearts of unbelievers to come to His grace and receive forgiveness. Forgiveness received ONLY through Christ, the power to resist sin; and peace and contentment in Him. Then our nation will be healed. We will find the answers to our society’s problems.

HOLD THE LINE

HOLD THE LINE

What comes to your mind when you hear these words? This term is used by the military as a tactic, in which a line of troops was supposed to prevent an enemy breakthrough. In a department store, it meant keep the prices the same and firemen use the same term meaning, let’s not allow the fire to jump over the line and keep people from harm’s way.

But did you know that term can be applied to the life of believers—followers of Jesus Christ?

Servants of Christ—Pastors, teachers, and church leaders are God’s frontline defense of His church on earth. They wit­ness firsthand the devastating effects of Satan’s bombardment, barrage and onslaught of God’s redeemed people. They hunker along­side you in the trenches of life. Their genuine desire is to keep watch over you for your spiritual safety and salvation. On the Day of Judgment, they will report to the Triune God for the groups of souls, large or small, entrusted to their care. That’s their privilege, honor and blessed responsibility.

But what happens to these leaders at the mention of your name, how would they react—perhaps with a wince or a warm smile? Are you a source of joy or grief? Are you a blessing or a burden?

In the church of Christ no matter how hard we try, we have broken relationships. Because we live in a fallen and sinful world, things happen that separates us from Christ’s love and from one another. And nothing fills Satan with more joy than to infiltrate our ranks in order to create division. He wants you to think “the enemy is your fellow brother or sister. He stirs the juices of misperceptions. He hopes we hurt one another wield­ing the weapon of words. His goal is anarchy in the church: angry members, anguished leaders, and lost souls.”

I have heard too many times a brother or sister, who has been hurt by Pastor, Teacher or Leader, I WILL NEVER FORGIVE THEM FOR WHAT THEY HAVE DONE. Not realizing with these words they are only giving the enemy ammunition to keep us apart. Many, who have been hurt, stay away from the Lord’s house and the grace He offers through Absolution, hearing His Word, and receiving His Sacrament; thinking by doing this they are hurting the church, but in reality hurting themselves.

Hold the line, dear Christian, alongside your leaders! The battle is not against one another but against enemies that do not have flesh or blood as the Apostle Paul reminds us: “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” (Eph. 6:12). Use God’s holy weapon of Christian love to achieve your mission: “Keep on loving each other as brothers” (Hebrews 13:1). Jesus fought with the holy weapon of love. He prayed, forgave, and loved us to death on a cross. He chose to obey His Father’s will. He blessed those who wronged Him. And today, His church carries out the mission of forgiving others in His stead and by His command.

Most of us don’t spend much time thinking about forgiveness; we worry and fret, instead, about the injustices we have suffered and the people who inflicted them. Remember God has a better plan: He wants us to live in the present, not in the past, and He knows that only His love and Spirit will help us forgive those who have harmed and hurt us.

I therefore exhort you in the name of the Lord of the Church, Jesus Christ to join your church leaders, and fight for one another—because you are fighting for their souls. Following the lead of a godly leader reveals your faith in and obedience to God. Besides, nothing fills the heart of the Father with more joy than the willing obedience of His Son. Nothing brings more glory to God than people and leaders declaring, “Let’s hold the line together in the mission of saving souls!”

Hold the line, dear Christian, and may your knees never be too stiff to bend in prayer! Reach out this week to someone with whom you feel distanced. Tell them, “I want to see you soon.” Pray that Christ’s love runs deeply through you in sincere words and affec­tionate feelings. May it give you the opportunity to share their bur­dens and to “comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we our­selves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort over­flows” (2 Corinthians 1:4, 5) to others, because they are our precious brothers and sisters—they are the ONES for whom Christ paid His ultimate—His life’s blood on Calvary’s cross.

Hold the line, dear followers of the Savior and fight the fight for the soul of your dearly loved and cherished brother and sister in Christ. Please, reach out to those who have hurt you, or you have hurt, and let us not allow the devil to continue to have his heyday but kick him out of the life of the Church and the hearts of His redeemed people.

God bless you as you HOLD THE LINE today and always.

NO DOUBT ABOUT IT!

NO DOUBT ABOUT IT!

“Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous” (1 Peter 3:18).

Let me ask you a question: Have you ever doubted a speaker—Pastor, Politician, Policeman or President? Perhaps you are like many of us who are cynics and skeptics. We live in a world of uncertainty. We have been lied to far too many times to believe everything someone says or someone has written. Yet the old saying is true that the only thing that is certain is death and taxes. I would venture to say there is yet another certainty. In this world the only thing that seems certain is uncertainty.

Study your life and the world we live in and you will have to acknowledge that it is true—the only thing that seems certain is uncertainty. The economy moves in fits, it flares up and it fizzles— forward and backward; up or down it goes. A job that seems secure today could be gone tomorrow. After years of a perfect driving record, car insurance could be canceled after just one incident. Health insurance premiums can skyrocket despite good health and an untouched deductible. A nag­ging cough or pain could turn out to be something that ends up tak­ing the life of a loved one. The only thing that seems certain is uncertainty.

Imagine a far more important scene. Imagine that you die and arrive at the entrance to heaven. At the Pearly Gate you are greeted warmly, “Welcome home, child of God! You’ve run the race; you’ve relied on Christ Your Savior for the forgiveness of YOUR sins and His blood has made you clean and holy. You are saved by grace alone! Come on in!”

As you walk through heaven’s gate, someone holding your file folder stops you. “I’m sorry, but your salvation has been put on hold. There’s some ques­tion as to whether or not Jesus’ blood actually paid for all your sins. There were some things you did when you were younger that are being reevaluated. You pushed the envelope too far and really pushed God’s grace to the limit. Also at issue is the validity of Jesus’ one-time sacrifice on the cross. Does the blood of Christ really save? Does it cover the debt of ALL sin? In your case, we’re not sure. Just sit tight while we reevaluate your status.” The great deceiver and accuser—Satan can whisper and place doubt in your heart and soul, that your sins are too many and too terrible to be for­given. Add to that, the world can mock your belief that forgiveness is free and full and complete. Don’t believe them. There is no doubt about it—they are wrong. It has happened! It has been done! “IT IS FINISHED!” (John 19:30). “Christ died for sins once for all!” There is no question! No doubt about it! This is sure and certain, finished and com­pleted is the work of redemption and salvation. We can take that all the way to the bank. We can stake our whole life on it. Christ died once for all. He died for you. YES, FOR YOU HE DIED AND ROSE.

The other day, I heard someone say to his wife: “I love you with all of my heart!” and her response was this: “I know. There is no doubt about it!” Isn’t it wonderful when we know we are loved; when we don’t doubt the speaker who is before us; when we believe what they say to us and take it to heart!

How much more then are the words of St. Peter who tells us: “Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous.”

This is a staggering statement of undeserved grace. Christ, the “righteous” One, died for the “unrighteous” and undeserving—that’s you and me. He died for the entire world, but most importantly and personally, He died for you. Against the back­drop of this sure and certain truth, every moment can be lived with the confidence that the debt of your sin is paid in FULL. With this rock-solid truth in place, you have a most certain salvation—in Christ the ONLY TRUE GOD AND LORD.

Therefore, as we rush here and there to prepare for the birth of the Savior of the world, may we not lose focus of why He came to earth and took upon Him human flesh—He came to die your death and earn you a place with Him in heaven. There is no doubt about it.

So, when the opportunity arises KINDLY share the Good News of the Birth of JESUS the Savior of the world with the certainty of why God sent Him to us. For sure, there is no doubt about it.

Merry Christmas and Blessed New Year!

In Christ’s love and in His service,

Rev. Nabil S. Nour Pastor and Foot Washer Phil. 1:6

THE GREATEST STORY EVERY TOLD

THE GREATEST STORY EVERY TOLD

“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests’” (Luke 2:13, 14).

A long time ago, on a cold night over the Judean hills, a most amazing event occurred. The night’s skies were lit up by heavenly beings announcing the birth of God’s only Son, to a virgin from Nazareth in the town of Bethlehem. This is indeed a great story—the Greatest Story ever told of the Savior of mankind being born to fulfill God’s promise to Adam and Eve of a Son who will destroy Satan, sin and death; and undo all the wrong that was done.

And who were the privileged recipients who heard this great and marvelous news? Not princes, priests, presidents or politicians. Not kings or queens. Not Sadducees or soldiers. Not tax agents or ambassadors; not even the Roman emperor heard the angels’ announcement. Just shepherds, common shepherds, were in atten­dance for this premier performance. To the commonest of the common, to the crustiest of the undercrust—God sent His angelic chorus to deliver the greatest message ever heard.

“Why?” we ask. The answer lies in the fact that humble shepherds fit right in with God’s choice of a humble village named Bethlehem and a humble mother named-Mary. In emphasizing such details, the heavenly author of the Christmas story is making a most important point: When it comes to Bethlehem and when it comes to Calvary—where salvation and heaven are involved—this story is for anyone and everyone who walks the dusty roads of earth. In fact, this story is for all people, no matter what color, race, tribe, nation or language they are. Certainly, no one is excluded. The Savior was born, died, and rose again for one and for all—including you and me.

For over 2000 years, people have called the birth, death and resurrection of God’s Son only Son, and Mary’s Son, the Greatest Story ever told for a reason. No writer could have thought it or wrote this story, except the Author of the Universe. Christmas’ Author, with His finger penned the most amazing story of love and compassion. The Greatest Story ever told reveals the depth of the heart of God—a heart that oozes with His unending and unconditional love; a heart that tells us we are special, valuable and cared for.

What would bring a God who dwells in the magnificent splendor of heaven into a scratchy straw-filled manger? What would bring Him to a Hill to be hung on rough timber with nails, spear, and crown of thorns? And what would bring Jesus to a tomb as a bloodstained corpse? HIS LOVE FOR YOU!

Let everyone know that this is indeed the Greatest Story ever told or ever will be told. It is for us that the Babe of Bethlehem needed to come to restore us and renew us as ONLY He can. He came to empty us from our arrogance and pride. He came to remove our false hope—man’s power that we cling to. He came to do the impossible—to restore the ruined world. And He did that as He took our place on the cross. Because of Him the lion and the lamb will dwell together in harmony. Because of Him streams will flow again in the desert and flowers will blossom. Because of Him joy fills the fearful hearts. Because of Him hope fills the troubled hearts. Because of Him peace will reign again in the world, but more importantly in our hearts.

Why is it the Greatest Story ever told? Because it is the story of our Redemption, the story of our liberation; and the story of our Salvation.

I encourage you to take advantage of this time of year and hear this story again. If you have a church home, make the hearing of this story an appointment you won’t miss. If you don’t have a church home, come join us at Redeemer so that we can share in the wonder of this Greatest Story ever told together!

Our Christmas Eve worship service is @ 6:00 p.m. and Christmas Day @ 9:30 a.m.

Merry CHRISTmas to one and all.

NOTHING BUT PURE GRACE

NOTHING BUT PURE GRACE

“As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him…the servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go” (Matthew 18:24, 27).

As you read the parable taught by Jesus, you wonder can this really be true. We say, “It doesn’t make any sense,” “Impossible,” “unbelievable”. Indeed, how could the master forgive that servant such mammoth, massive and colossal debt? At the time of the story the amount owed would have been close to $10 million. Today, we would have to talk in the Trillions of dollars—like the national debt of our country.

The question needs to be asked again to sink in. Why would the master do such a thing to wipe out the debt completely? Not because the destitute and penniless debtor deserved it but because the master had pity on him. This is NOTHING BUT PURE GRACE

Now bring this closer to home—to you personally. We say, “It doesn’t make any sense,” “Impossible,” “unbelievable”. But is this not what the Lord Jesus Christ has done for me the sinner? The Lord of the Church Jesus looks at the ton­nage of sin that bends the shoulders of my soul. He looks at my abilities and sees nothing that can help me get rid of that horri­ble weight. He notices that no matter how hard I try, how many prayers I lift up, how many good deeds I do, I still fall short.

So, God springs into action as ONLY God can. He lifts those sins off me and puts them on the One who CAN carry them. The prophet Isaiah put it this way: “The lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all,” (Isaiah 53:6). Take your Bibles out and read that verse again and highlight the word “him” in bold red color. When Isaiah says “him” he is pointing to Jesus, the sin­less Son of God. On Him God heaped, piled and stacked the sins of the world (yours and mine too) and through Him hurled them forever into the depths of the sea. With my sins paid by Jesus’ blood, I can stand debt free before God. This is NOTHING BUT PURE GRACE

It is told that the English pastor who penned the hymn “Rock of Ages” estimated that by the time a person reached the age of 20, he had sinned 630 million times. By the age of 50, he sup­posed the count had gone up to a billion and a half sins. Not sure what it will be at 70 or 80 years old, but am sure it has gone out of the roof. I am not a mathematician and therefore, I don't know how good that pastor’s math was. However, I am a theologian and do know how numerous my sins are and so do you. And we don't even know half of them. But thank God I also know that Jesus bore them all when God laid on Him the iniquity of us all. This is NOTHING BUT PURE GRA CE

John Newton an English poet and clergyman (1725–1807), wrote a Christian Hymn “Amazing Grace” and published it in 1779. With a message that forgiveness and redemption are possible regardless of the sins people commit and that the soul can be delivered from despair through the mercy of God, “Amazing Grace” is one of the most recognizable and loved songs in the English-speaking world.

No wonder people love this hymn, because after all this is NOTHING BUT PURE GRACE. Here are a couple of stanzas to cause you to reflect and give thanks to the Lord, Jesus Christ who took upon His shoulders the sins of humanity:

Amazing Grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found
Was blind, but now I see.

‘Twas Grace that taught my heart to fear,
And Grace my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.

The blessings of Grace received is not because we deserve it, but because God Himself is gracious, compassionate and merciful. He doesn’t wish anyone to get to hell, but all to be saved and come to the knowledge of the TRUTH (1Timothy 2:4)

Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ makes this Grace freely available every time the Word is read and proclaimed. It is Grace upon Grace that is freely offered at Redeemer. Here, hearts are touched by this GRACE so that sinners leave un-burdened, un-shackled and un-weighted by sins, its shame and consequences and their hearts are over flowing with this pure and lovely sweet GRACE; but hearts filled with GRACE upon GRACE. THIS IS NOTHING BUT PURE GRACE!!!

In Christ’s love and in His service,

Rev. Nabil S. Nour Pastor and Foot Washer Phil. 1:6

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Do you not know that your body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own” (1 Corinthians 6:19).

The other day my brother-in-law and I were visiting. His parting words to me were, “Take care of yourself!” What wonderful advice. One, that needs to be heeded by all; but especially those who are followers of Jesus Christ. Because as the Apostle Paul has stated, our bodies are the Temple of God.

It is sad that many of us, myself included, don’t take care of our bodies. We abuse it regularly; we neglect it repeatedly; and batter it recurrently. We burn the candle at both ends, we don’t get the proper rest, not enough sleep, don’t eat right or exercise enough, and worst of all, we neglect our quiet time with God, and don’t gather with other believers often around His life-giving Word and Sacraments; and we don’t take time to be on our knees in prayer as Jesus the Son of God/Man did often (Mark 6:31).

We have so much to do, that we run here and there like a chicken with its head cut off, not knowing which direction we should go. Our lives are filled with the hustle and bustle of the demands we place on ourselves. No one forces us to do these things, we certainly know how to “neglect” and not “take care” of ourselves. To make matters worse, we even want to believe that we are living the right way! Many do not take the time to bask in the love that God has provided for us through His Son Jesus Christ.

Our diet is terrible. We live on fast food and drinks that are unhealthy. We fill our lives with the trivial—spending an enormous time watching TV, at the bar, at work, and so much on entertainment. We read articles and magazines that don’t lift us up or draw us closer to our Savior, but drag us down and remove us from the grace of God. All along we are not taking care of ourselves.

With our bodies being the Temple of the Holy Spirit why would we not want to take care of them? To take care of our bodies is a privilege and a joy, since God resides in our hearts and head. As such, out of love for Him, we would want to do so. There are great benefits when we take care of our bodies and resting in His grace and basking in His love and peace. Try it! You will see the benefit the Lord gives when you take care of your body.

Every day, we are learning just how inter-connected the body and mind is, and some would add the “spirit” or “soul.” Now in the early 21^st century, medical and health science continues to advance. We know more than we ever did about the human body, but are we benefiting from this knowledge?

Though we know so much, there are still the unexplainable and mysteries, both with the physical body and when it comes to realms beyond which science can measure, such as the role prayer, faith, and taking time to worship the living Lord, Jesus Christ has in healing. In recent years there have been dedicated scientists who have sought to understand the positive impact of prayer on physical healing. While some are skeptical, one thing is clear: stress reduction produces health. Humanly and psychologically, most humans may feel better if they know that some people are praying for them, and that assurance then can lessen their stress or worry which in turn could improve their health. Doctors have been telling us stress can really affect one’s health.

What is the best way to reduce stress in your life? Begin by gathering around the Word of the Lord often, listening to God, reading/meditating upon His Word, calling upon Him in prayer and basking in His love daily. Listening to spiritual music, and fill your soul with good reading material that lifts your spirit up and draws you closer to your Savior, Jesus Christ. And finally, and most importantly, find yourself a designated sanctuary where you can be spiritually recharged in your (if you can possibly find one, even a closet, a car, etc.) quiet place may be one of the best remedies. It’s God’s Word of peace and comfort ministering to us that can be more powerful and soothing than any human wisdom or modern psychology. In the words of Soren Kirkegaard, “Prayer does not change God; it changes us.”

Beloved in the Lord, one thing I know for sure, that no matter how bleak ones life becomes, there will be joy in the journey as God has provided us with a bright light in the midst of our darkness.  And that bright light is Jesus Christ who empowers, encourages and exhorts us daily to take care of our bodies by His strength alone.

Therefore, begin a new diet. Not of a fad diet, but one that is rich with the sumptuous food that God provides; feeding often on the heavenly manna that gives healing to the soul and mind.

In Christ’s love and in His service,

Rev. Nabil S. Nour Pastor and Foot Washer Phil. 1:6

I KNOW… BUT

I KNOW… BUT

“But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it—the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe” (Roman 3:21-22).

It is an art to listen to people speak. I mean to listen to them not just hearing what they are saying. How many times have you heard someone say, “I know…BUT?” Perhaps you yourself have said it: “I know…BUT!”

This “BUT” is the biggest little word in the Scriptures, in my opinion. Why you might ask? Because it is the way the devil attempts to confuse us and makes us think—that you have to do something to earn God’s favor and grace.

We say things like this: “I know I am forgiven…BUT. I know God loves me…BUT. I know that Jesus died for me on the cross…BUT. I know that I am redeemed…BUT. I know the gift of God’s grace is free…BUT”.

This little “BUT” gets in the way of God’s love and blocks it. Anytime we are adding to the grace of God or the gift of God it is no longer grace or gift—it is simply work—man’s word to climb the ladder of salvation. The devil makes us think we have to do something to make God love us more. His death on the cross is not enough. I should do this or that. Every time we do, we are saying, “I know…BUT!!!

An old Lutheran pastor bemoaned years ago how many of his members were talking like this:

John Schmidt is a good person, but....

Clara Inglish is a nice lady, but...

Joe Smalzt is a fine carpenter, but...

“You know,” added the Pastor, “If people are not careful, a lot of folks are going to slide on their “buts” to hell.

While the Pastor was warning against gossip, against breaking the eighth commandment, against people prone not to put the best construction on everything, he also was speaking closely akin to another topic. So many people today say, “Jesus did everything for us, BUT...”  Any time we add any modifier to the pure, perfect work of Jesus on the cross, we subtract from His perfect work for us. Lent is a time when we celebrate the perfect work the perfect Son of God did on our behalf. “IT IS FINISHED” His Words from the cross equals perfection.

I know I am forgiven…BUT! BUT what must I do... to feel better.... to make people like me... to make God love me more?  When I feel down about myself I remember my brother, Saul of Tarsus.  He oversaw the stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:58) and could say of himself that he could will what was right BUT could not do it, indeed, that he did the very thing he hated doing (Romans 7).  This man, Saul of Tarsus, was forgiven by God and we know him as Paul, the Apostle.  He knew how weak he was... and he knew how loving and gracious the Lord is.
Feeling better about myself, with others, and with God is something I cannot do, for I always put my foot in my mouth, yes, I can will what is right BUT cannot do it (Romans 7:15).  What do I need?  The cross of Jesus!  I need for forgiveness to be more than words, BUT the reality that the God who is love became love for me by dying on the cross.  St Paul, the former Saul of Tarsus, declares:  There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (Rom 8:1 ESV)  He goes on to say in this chapter, “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him graciously give us all things? Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the One who died—more than that, who was raised--who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. (Rom 8:31-34 ESV)
Oh, there is something more I can do - I can say “THANK YOU!!!” - My life can reflect His love simply by seeing that He loves me... and you... and everyone.  Want to feel better?  Give thanks to God for His love that loves, even when I am not lovely or doing the right things.  In His gift of Jesus on the cross you will see what true loveliness is.

The Words of the Apostle Paul from Roman 3 are words that give meaning and purpose in life because it points us away from ourselves to the cross of our Savior Jesus Christ. It assures and guarantees us that our past is ALL forgiven, our present is being carefully guided and our future secure in heaven.

YOU who are redeemed by the blood of the Lamb—Jesus Christ; be careful of the use of the sentence of “I know…BUT.” BUT, is not a vocabulary that ought to be used by Christians to make God love them more or forgive them more. However, we can use it as Paul does in our text. But we are saved apart from the works of the Law. It is ALL GRACE UPON GRACE. There is no but. But the saving work of Christ on the cross of Calvary that makes us what we are.

Bike-For-Life Update

BIKE FOR LIFE UPDATE: 
What a privilege it was for me and 26 other riders to ride The Bike For Life (12th annual) trail from Armour, SD to Sioux Falls SD a distance of 100 miles to save babies from the abortion mill.

By the grace of God we have received so far $9, 500. 00. All Glory be to God ALONE. If you would like to donate, it is not to late.

Thank you for your support in speaking out on behalf of the unborn and saving lives from the butcher blocks of abortion.

In Christ's love,

Rev. Nabil S. Nour Pastor, Foot Washer and Biker-For-Life Phil. 1:6

My challenge for SD this year, is that we would surpass the amount raised last year.  Last year we raised over $10, 000.00.  May the Lord bless our efforts once again.  For your information about this worthy cause; ever since LFL placed the Ultra Sound Machine at the Alpha Center in 1998, we know for a fact that over a 1500 babies have been saved. S. D. G. TO GOD ALONE BE ALL THE GLORY.

If you would like to pledge any amount of money. Please make checks out to:
South Eastern, South Dakota Lutherans For Life or SESDLFL
C/O Redeemer Lutheran Church
P. O. Box 158
Armour, SD 57313-0158
ear mark the check for Bike-A-Thon.

THE VOICE OF CHRISTMAS

THE VOICE OF CHRISTMAS

(The idea for this message came from a colleague of mine Rev. Terry Forke, the President of the Montana District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, who wrote an article in the November Lutheran Witness titled “Listen to Him”).

Over 2000 years ago, the angels announced to the Shepherds of Bethlehem the Greatest News in the world. Thus the angels spoke: “Fear not, for behold, I bring you Good News of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:10-12).

That is the Voice of Christmas, telling the world that the Savior has been born. That the heaven-sent Messenger has taken up flesh and blood, and came to live among us to redeem us from the punishment of hell and to forgive our sins.

The Voice of Christmas is telling the world the reason the Savior came. The Voice of Christmas is God’s gift to the world. The Voice of Christmas is God undoing the work of the devil and man in the Garden of Eden so that man may have life and peace and joy in His presence.

However, something has happened since that Voice of Christmas was first spoken. Today, the Voice of Christmas has nothing to do with Christmas at all. Some have even attempted to drown that Voice and replace it with something else because it is no longer “politically correct” thing.

To be sure there are many voices and noises that we hear during this time of the year. The weeks before Christmas we hear many different voices. But these voices are nothing but clinging noise that fills the air and our ears with empty, shallow and hollow promises and leave the most important part of Christmas out–the birth of the God-Man Jesus.

We hear all types of voices that vie for our attention. Have you noticed how long and winsomely the voices of the world have been wooing you into their stores for their godless version of Christmas? Wal-Mart began right after Halloween (skipping right over Thanksgiving). The Salvation Army bell is clanging. Clerks are wishing a politically correct “Happy Holidays” while the cash registers dance to the noise of change and credit cards being used. Children are chattering about this year’s sensational toy. Hollywood is barking over its year-end offerings. The family is arguing about where Christmas dinner will be at. And Wall Street is whining that we haven’t spent enough this season. Amazingly, we are rarely aware of this voice (the noise in the background). We live with it, without knowing what it does to our psyche or to our spiritual walk.

There are other voices too, that steal us away from the Voice of Christmas that tells of the Savior’s birth. Have you noticed how many songs that are sung on the radio, malls and even in our homes have nothing to do with Christmas? Here are but a few of these songs (don’t hit me on the head as you see me in the street since these could be your favorite). “Deck the Hall” “Jingle Bells” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” “I Am Dreaming of A White Christmas” and of course we can’t leave out the favorite of many, “Santa Claus is coming to town”.

Santa’s voice is jolly as he makes his rounds in the streets and chimneys. Have you noticed how Santa’s voice beckons us to experience the joy of giving? He speaks of laughter, of tradition, of suspense and of good little boys and girls. All these things are fun, they make you feel good, put a smile on your face and quick step in your feet; but they are NOT the Savior of the world. Santa’s voice is very, very loud. He is not just another voice, but he has become the Voice of Christmas for the majority of listeners. The world can ease its Christmas conscience by listening to him instead of the true Voice of Christmas–Jesus–the New Born King. The Savior comes to speak to our burdened hearts and guilty consciences, but we are eager to change the channel and listen to someone else.

Whose voice are you listening to during these Advent days? Now I am not a scrooge or one who doesn’t enjoy good music or laughter or traditions. I do. But in our Advent and Christmas preparations, let us not forget to listen to the true Voice of Christmas. Of course there are many things to be done and completed before we kneel at the manger. Care must be taken so that this preparation does not drown the voice of Jesus in our attempts to make Christmas more Christmassy.

The voice of the Savior was first heard as the cry of a little baby in His mother’s arms. His voice was heard as He read the Hebrew Scripture (Old Testament), and explained the Scriptures to all who would listen. Later, His Father revealed Jesus to the disciples saying: “This is My Beloved Son, listen to Him”.

Regardless of how many voices vie for our ears and hearts, Jesus will not be silent. He didn’t remain in Bethlehem as a baby. His message became more emphatic and articulate than the cries of a newborn baby. He grew up and went to the cross to earn man’s salvation. In His death and resurrection, we hear most clearly the message of Jesus. All the other voices of the world can’t save us by taking our sins and giving us righteousness. His is a unique voice-the VOICE OF CHRISTMAS.

The Voice of Christmas is God’s Good News to man. The Voice of Christmas is the eternal coming to earth to make us live with Him in eternity. The Voice of Christmas is calling you to listen to Him and rejoice as you prepare to kneel at the foot of the manger, for there in you will know peace–peace that is heaven-made for the world.

My prayers for you during this Advent and Christmas Season, is by the Spirit’s power to listen to the Voice of Christmas–the Voice of Jesus as He calls you a sinner to be saints through Him.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL.

In Christ’s love and in His service,

Rev. Nabil S. Nour Pastor and Foot Washer Phil. 1:6

NO MORE SCAPEGOATS!

NO MORE SCAPEGOATS!

Isn’t it amazing to study the world we live in? Have you ever noticed how people play different games? Even little children need not be taught the game. They play it like professionals. Ever since the fall into sin, mankind has been quick to play the blame game. Looking for scapegoats is almost as old as time. Adam blamed Eve—“The woman [emphasis mine] You put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.” Eve blamed the devil—“The serpent [emphasis mine] deceived me, and I ate.” And Cain blamed God—“So Cain was very angry [emphasis mine], and his face was downcast” (Gen. 3:12-13; 4:5). Due to sin, human nature has the perverse proclivity to pass the buck and duck responsibility. Substituting someone else to take the blame for your mistakes is the name of the game. In politics today, the blame game is so bad; congressmen rarely can find anything good to say about an opponent. The congress blames the president; the president blames the congress; people blame their pastor, pastor blames his people; husband blames wife, wife blames husband; father blames son, daughter blames mother. Disassociating one’s self from one’s mistakes carried to a constant behavior pattern invariably looks for a scapegoat for all the ills of this world.

Our in-born sin causes us to play the blame game. We don’t wish to admit to any mistakes or sinning. It is so easy to scapegoat. A major challenge in our society is to try to have an equal field for all without unwittingly making some folks new scapegoats to pay for our mistakes or someone else’s mistake.

We play the blame game so often that we think that it is the only way to live. But that is not the case. Study Scripture and you will find God doesn’t permit us to get away with blaming someone else for our mistakes. Eventually, we have to stand before the judgment seat of God and give an account to our actions life-style.

But for us who believe in Jesus Christ we take comfort in what He did. The ultimate Slave of mankind, the Omnipresent Lord, Jesus, who willingly became mankind’s scapegoat, assures of this aspect of the scales of Justice. (Matthew 11:24).

Life is not fair.

God is NOT FAIR either! He doesn’t treat us like we deserve. In fact we are saved

How so?

Jesus the Just dies for the unjust in order that He might bring us to God, create within us the will to love all, and bring about reconciliation. One can wonder about the seemingly endless injustices in this world, yet one need not lecture the God of all grace who tasted eternal death and injustice for ALL. (Hebrews 2:9) In theology, we call this the sweet swap, the happy exchange, the great exchange—the Lamb becoming the scapegoat so that humans might cease their scapegoat-ways. While this works for us, it sure isn’t fair to Jesus!

The death of the Lamb of God on the Altar of the cross is the ONE cosmic redemptive, restoring, event capable of ending the perverse proclivity of humans to scapegoat. The term scapegoat originated in the famous ritual of the Hebrews described in the Book of Leviticus. (16:20-22) On the Day of Atonement a live male goat was chosen by lot. The high priest, robed in special priestly garments for that day, laid both his hands on the goat’s head, and confessed over it the sins of the children of Israel. The sins of the people thus symbolically transferred to the goat, it was then taken out into the wilderness and let go. Again good for us, NOT so good for the goat! This foreshadowed how God was sending a coming Redeemer who would once and for ALL take away their sins. In time, believers would realize this scapegoat was a lamb, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. (John 1:29)

Study God’s inspired Word and you will see that it is no accident after John the Baptizer testified that Jesus was the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world; our Lord went into the wilderness. He was driven [Greek emphasis by force] into the desert by the Spirit. (Luke 4:1; Mark 1:12) The goat that bore the sins of Israel into the wilderness in ancient times was sent to Azazel, to the devil, the one who had seduced mankind into sin. (Leviticus 16:8)

Now upon the heels of His baptism, Jesus is cast into the wilderness as a scapegoat to bear the sins of mankind. As mankind’s great high priest, yet living among the beasts, Jesus fulfills both the role of the High Priest and the poor beast in taking our sin into the wilderness to suffer in our place. Ultimately, Jesus would have to be sacrificed like the other wild goat—since there were two Day of Atonement goats. (Leviticus 16:7-10) That ultimate bloody sacrifice occurred on Good Friday when Jesus was killed dying upon the Tree of the Cross at the exact moment the Passover Lamb was being offered up in Jerusalem. Before eternity, this moment was planned to the very second.

Upon the wooden beam of the Cross, Jesus hung between time and eternity even though He was the eternal God come into the flesh. He who created our first parents became the scapegoat for all of mankind’s sin so that He would be the atonement Lamb for all mankind. In so doing, Jesus not only paid to God in full the bill for our sins, but at the same time, He put an end for any pretext on the part of humans scapegoating fellow humans. It is God’s unfair-ness that works our salvation. This is not something to be lamented but rejoiced in!

The blame game continues to be played in our lives and words. But No More Scapegoats are needed, since Christ became our scapegoat so that we might escape the fires of hell. God grant us the power to live for Him, acknowledging our sins and receive His unmerited and unearned grace. The next time you think of playing the blame game think of the Lamb of God—the Scapegoat—who died for you on the Tree of the CROSS.

In Christ’s love and in His service,

Rev. Nabil S. Nour Pastor and Foot Washer Phil. 1:6

ABORTION IT IS A SPIRITUAL ISSUE AND NOT A POLITICAL ONE

ABORTION IT IS A SPIRITUAL ISSUE AND NOT A POLITICAL ONE

“And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:15).

In two weeks from today, many of us will head to the polls to exercise our rights and freedom to vote and choose the next leader of the United States of America that we think would do the best job for us and our beloved Nation. Along with choosing the next President of the U.S., we also have the privilege of voting on many issues in our own states that affect our lives and the lives of the people of SD.

One of the issues that we will be privileged to vote on is Initiative #11. This initiative deals with ending abortions in our State. Initiative #11 promotes the end of the holocaust that has been going on in our country since Roe V. Wade in 1973. Since that day over 40 million innocent, unprotected and helpless human beings lives have come to end. Almost 3,000 babies are run through the abortion mill daily. In our State last year there was almost 800 babies whose life was cut short because of abortion.

I will be the first to admit that this bill is not the perfect bill to end all abortions. There are some exceptions for incest and rape. I would have liked to see all abortions in SD come to end. But since we can’t at this time do so, this is the best alternative we have and I support it wholeheartedly to bring about 98 - 99% of all abortions. And Pray that some day all abortions in this State and in this country would cease.

Some might say, Pastor Nour this is not a church issue, but a choice a woman has. Please permit me to speak from God’s Word, this is not a choice issue, it is not a political issue it is a spiritual issue. For on the many issues on the ballot this fall, we have wiggle room to vote one way or the other, but in this matter God’s Word doesn’t give us any wiggle room. God’s Word is very clear without any confusion–“You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13). God doesn’t say there are exceptions to this rule such as, “unplanned pregnancy,” “alters my life style,” “don’t want any more children,” etc. etc. God states emphatically “YOU, shall not murder.” God’s Word must be held above everyone else, since He is the Author of life Himself.

Therefore, on this issue we must remember there is not debating the point or trying to wiggle our way out of it for abortion is not a political issue but a spiritual one. After all, we must not forget what abortion is. All the rhetoric surrounding abortion has deceptively blinded us to the truth. We hear it described as a “right,” a “choice,” or “medical procedure.” It becomes to easy–even for the Christian–to see abortion as just another one of those “elected issues.”

Think about it! What is a candidate who supports abortion rights really supporting? Abortion is not on a par with a woman’s right to equal employment and equal pay. Not on par with a woman’s right to vote or not vote, or be able to drive or car or not drive. It is a matter of life and death.

Let’s be honest! The candidate who supports abortion rights supports a woman’s right to have innocent child murdered through a mean cruel machine–either by burning that baby with a salt solution, tearing the baby piece by piece or allowing the babies head to come out of the birth canal and insert a metal object in the back of the brain to end life. What a cruel method for a choice.

Abortion is not an “election issue.” Abortion is a grave sin. Abortion assaults God’s Word of truth about the sanctity of human life and, therefore, assaults the Word Himself Who became flesh that we might have life and have it abundantly. Abortion is a sin against God who is the Author and Redeemer of Life. Abortion is not an “election, choice, or political issue.” Because abortion destroys human life–a life created in the image of its maker–the Lord Almighty. Abortion is a SPIRITUAL issue.

Not only does abortion end the life of a child, it forever wounds and maims a woman. Although she may at first feel a sense of relief that her “problem” has been solved, eventually their reality of this unnatural choice sinks in. When it does, the guilt and shame can be devastating. This is awful reality can bring the same devastation to fathers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and siblings. Abortions is not an election or political issue. Because abortion can destroy relationships within families as well as between God and an individual, it IS a SPIRITUAL issue.

THEREFORE, a Christian cannot debate the pros and cons of abortion any more than he can debate the pros and cons of rape or stealing or adultery. Abortion cannot be a “right” because in God’s eyes, it is a fundamental wrong.

As Christians, we CANNOT say that I will live my Christian life-style only on Sunday and the rest of the week, live to serve myself. The words of Joshua are an excellent reminder for us especially during this upcoming election time, “But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:15b). To live for Christ is not a matter of choice but a life of service to the Master and Author of life.

For us Christians we can make a difference when we go to the polls on November 4^th. We can stand up with Joshua and say we will serve the Lord. We will obey His Word. We will do His Will and protect the life of the unborn and the innocent.

Why? Because abortion is an atrocity, abomination and sin against the Author of LIFE–Jesus Christ. Therefore, I encourage you to be on your knees and ask God to help you vote for the end of this butchering era to come to an end. For after all, abortion is not an election, political or a right issue, but a SPIRITUAL issue.

* Abortion is a spiritual issue.

* Abortion is a SIN

* The Christian should NOT vote for the sin of abortion.

* The Christian should vote for life and be a messenger of life.

God grant us the grace to end all abortions.

In Christ’s love and in His service,

Rev. Nabil S. Nour Pastor and Foot Washer Phil. 1:6

THE GREATEST RESCUE MISSION

THE GREATEST RESCUE MISSION

We all love to hear, read, and see a happy ending of a rescue mission. Many of us sat at the edge of our seats as the firemen and rescue teams went into the rubble of the Twin towers looking for survivors. And when someone was found, a great voice of jubilee went up in thanksgiving.

I remember sitting and watching TV as many of you did, back on October 14, 1987, as an 18 month old baby girl from Texas Jessica McClure fell into a well. “Baby Jessica,” was the centerpiece of a 58-hour rescue drama that commanded the attention – and the emotions – of a town, a nation and the world. After the rescue efforts there were tears of joy for all involved, and a happy reunion of Jessica and her mother.

We know in our own state of people who have been rescued from being trapped in their cars from a blizzard; lost in a corn field, buried beneath the rubble of a tornado, or lost while hiking. We rejoice when the rescue mission is successful and the people are reunited with their families and loved ones; and we are saddened when the rescue efforts fail, like the six minors who were trapped in Utah last year.

As you study the book of Exodus you will read of the fate of the Jewish People—God’s chosen Israel. They were forced into slavery by the Egyptians. To work in the heat of the day making bricks was bad enough. Add to that the terrible method of birth control that the Egyptian had enforced on the Jewish women: ordering baby boys born to Israelite women to be thrown into the Nile to drown or be food for the crocodiles.

The Israelites couldn’t deliver themselves; they needed help—major help! And to the rescue comes not a fire squad or a rescue team, but God Himself gets involved. His heart was moved by the cries that went heavenward. He called Moses (an Israelite infant saved from being thrown into the Nile), to be the deliverer.

Moses was commanded by the Great Deliver God Himself to go to Egypt and tell Pharaoh and tell him, “Let My people go,” (Exodus 5:1). Pharaoh didn’t want to loose his power over the slaves. After Pharaoh repeatedly hardened his own heart God confirmed Pharaoh in his deep unbelief. God hardened Pharaoh’s heart after Pharaoh himself first hardened his own heart. Such a heart would not let God’s special possession go. But God forced him to release them by sending upon Egypt the great plagues. At long last Pharaoh was forced to set the people of God free.

In the book of Exodus we read these words, “You yourself have seen what I [God] did in Egypt” (Ex. 19:4a). The Lord used this incident to teach the people of Israel of His grace upon them, His favor to them, and His love for them. The Israelites still have the memories of the plagues fresh in their memories. They could still hear the cry of the Egyptians as the Angel of the Lord struck their first born. They could envision the Red Sea divided by the outstretched hands of God and the Egyptians soldiers and their horses are dead on the shores. This was the rescue mission of God to His people Israel. It was all by grace. The only contribution of the Children of Israel was petrified fear. Through a salvation by water event God redeemed a nation of slaves.

As Moses recorded these great acts of salvation for us, he wrote them to point to the coming of a grandeur and more glorious rescue mission –the rescue mission of God to save the world. This mission would be more majestic than the delivery of the Israelites from the bondage of slavery of Egypt—this would be the cosmic rescue mission of the world through the heaven-sent Savior and Redeemer Jesus Christ.

The greatest rescue mission was not accomplished by firemen, police officers, volunteers or others. No! It is carried out by God Himself to deliver us from the slavery of sin, the chains of the devil and the power of death. What Jesus accomplished for us was to rescue us from the slavery of sin which was greater than any other slavery we could imagine. Jesus’ outstretched arms on Calvary’s cross were the means by which this Rescue Mission was completed.

You and I are as helpless as the Israelites were against the Egyptian slave-drivers—as helpless as a victim of tornado, flood, or fire; who stands in the middle of the turmoil and not able to do anything about it.. You and I were shackled by sin and doomed to eternal damnation and hell that we deserved. But in His mercy and grace God had other plans—a rescue mission.

The Apostle Paul wrote this to the Colossian Christians: “For He [God] has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves,” (Col. 1:13). This is the Grace of God to us sinners. We have been rescued, redeemed, restored from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of Light.

We all love happy endings. The stories that we see hear and read about move us to be thankful for the efforts of those who labor hard to rescue those lost, trapped, or in danger. How much more we, who have been rescued by the Great Rescuer, Jesus Christ should give thanks to God for what He in grace has accomplished in our lives.

Thank you Jesus for RESCUING me through Your suffering, death and glorious resurrection. Amen.

In Christ’s love and in His service,

Rev. Nabil S. Nour Pastor and Foot Washer Phil. 1:6