Catacomb Praise

This outdoor concert was recorded during our participation in the Philadelphia project.  During the day, youth  volunteers from the region helped to repair and rebuild homes in Philadelphia.  In the evenings , Pastor Mike a PUMC’ers led worship services for the workers.  Most of the songs in this concert were written by Pastor Mike.

 

Music:

• “I Know It’s Friday, but Sunday’s on the Way” .
• ” On Fire”     
• “Shout It Loud (I need You)” 
• “Peace”    
• “Relentless”
• “The Victory”
• “Puddles”
• “God’s Not Done with You Yet”
• “Say the Name”
• “Priceless”
• “Over and Over Again”
• “Jesus You Are the Way”
• “We Win  (Amen, amen, amen we win…)”

 

• “Praise the Lord, O My Soul”   
• “There is Power in the Blood”  
• “Goodness of God”   
• “Firm Foundation (He Won’t)”   
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Hymn of Heaven”     
• “Great is Thy Faithfulness”      

Scripture:   Matthew 13:44-50

This passage has some difficult statements in it- weeping and gnashing of teeth?!?   But there’s hope, and good news here too. Here’s how that plays out:

1. If anything drastic happened in life, those who would do the best are those who are holding on to the truths of Jesus.  We see God’s kingdom in the lives of others.  We are living for the Kingdom where everything is perfect and God reigns.
2. The kingdom of God is valuable; it gives us hope.  We have something greater than this temporary life.
3. Hard truth:  There is heaven, but there is also eternal separation from God (hell).  But we can avoid that by clinging to Jesus and having a relationship with Him. God will ask:  “What did you do with the knowledge of My Son?”

 

• “My Lighthouse”     
• “Praise”     
• “What an Awesome God”    
• “Holy Water”    
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Goodness of God”    
• “Living Hope”   

Scripture:   Romans 12:17-18   

“Live at peace with everyone…”   In our culture, we currently have wars like we’ve never seen before: Republicans vs. Democrats, Conservatives vs. Liberal.   Whatever “side” you’re on, we can still be hateful or loving.  What we need is a focus on Jesus so that the Holy Spirit will guide us above our “sides” and “affiliations.”  Ultimately, it’s the Kingdom of God that we belong to, not a party or “side”.  In our world, if someone doesn’t agree with you, we call it “hate.”  But if we focus on Jesus instead of politics or theology, we’ll be able to love.

 

• “Trust in God”    
• “Power in the Blood”   
• “You’ve Already Won”    
• “Lord I Need You”    
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Firm Foundation”   
• “Jesus Strong and Kind”    

Scripture:   John 16:4-11  

The Holy Spirit gives us the moment by moment strength to put one foot in front of the other.  Today, in so many ways, we are divided by arguments.  We somehow need to prove that we’re the ones who are right.  But it’s the Holy Spirit who carries the truth.  The Holy Spirit breaks open our heart so that we can see our need for Him.  It’s the Holy Spirit that brings conviction to our hearts.  We can’t “argue our way” to the Kingdom and to Truth.  It’s the Holy Spirit that brings conviction.  Tell the Gospel, love others well, say what Jesus has done for us, then allow the Holy Spirit to do the rest.

The Holy Spirit not only draws us close, but He gives us strength to follow Jesus.  And He is the advocate, who brings conviction to our hearts.  

Music:

• “10,000 Reasons”      
• “Blessed Quietness”    
• “More than Conquerors“
• “My Redeemer Lives“
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Nobody Loves Me Like You”   

Scripture: Romans 12:17-18      

Even if we disagree, we can still show the love of Christ to one another and to respect and love one another.  We don’t have to change our convictions, but let’s love one another.  Differences cause strong feelings, but we can still live at peace with one another if our relationship with Christ reminds us that Jesus is constantly crying out to all “Come unto Me.”  Let’s work on being at peace with one another.

• “Yes Lord (Trading My Sorrows)” 
• “Grace in the Gardens”      
• “Praise” 
• “The Stone Was Rolled” (new song written by Pastor Mike)   
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies)”  
• “How He Loves”      

Scripture:    Mark 11:15-19  

Jesus was angry.  Not only because of the corruption, but because the Temple had lost its essence of why it was there.  Why is the Church here? Why are we here?  The Church is supposed to be an Ark of Truth, holding on to the Truth that Jesus is the corner of our faith.   Just like Noah’s ark, the door is still open, but one day it will be snapped shut.  Jesus died and rose so we can have life.  The Holy Spirit is with us to guide us on this wild ride.  We’re here to reflect the glory of God and to witness to His love, righteousness, and grace.  One day the door will be closed.  But eternal life is available today.  The Temple, the Church, the Christian… we’re here today to share that life with anyone we meet.

 

• “I’ll Fly Away”     
• “In Tenderness He Sought Me”    
• “King of Kings”    
• “He’s Come to Redeem”     (lyrics unavailable) 
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Firm Foundation”    
• “Cornerstone”     

Scripture:    Psalm 36:5-9          

The Bible speaks about God’s righteousness, but it also talks of God’s love and mercy.  All people are welcome to take refuge in the shadow of His wings.  What is it that keeps YOU going when you have to stand on what you believe?  It’s the Holy Spirit that can give you that strength.  The Holy Spirit is kinda like a shield.  He covers you.  If you’re willing to embrace the love of Christ you’ll find that He’ll cover you with His shield; like a wing that covers you.  He’ll shield you from temptations and from the devil who wants to pull you away from God.  The Holy Spirit is your shield; He is real, not made up like a comic book superhero.

 

• “More than Conquerors”    
• “We Believe”       
• “Same God”      
• “We Win” (written by Pastor Mike)    
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Because He Lives”    
• “Priceless” (written by Pastor Mike)   

Scripture:     1 Samuel 16:7   

Just as God picked little David to be Israel’s greatest king (other than Jesus, of course!), God looks at us on the inside.  God sees our hearts, and that’s what He’s is after.  He’s not after our strength or appearance.  God wants our love and devotion.  A singer’s voice might be raspy.  It may not fit musical perfection.  But God is an “audience” who sees our passion and our heart.  He’s not a music critic who demands perfect pitch.  Music to God is a heart that is driving for purity, a heart that is giving love, a heart that is trying to live the life that Christ wants us to live.  Don’t be fooled by strength on the outside.  Yearn for beauty on the inside.

• “Praise”      
• “There is Power in the Blood”   
• “Goodness of God”   
• “Firm Foundation (He Won’t)” 
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Hymn of Heaven”  
• “Great is Thy Faithfulness”      

Scripture:  Matthew 13:44-50    

We don’t hold on to the things of the world.  Instead we’re holding on to the truths of Jesus.  These truths can’t be understood, but they can be seen in other Christians.

1. Those who do best in this world are those who those are looking for a Kingdom where everything is perfect.  They’re not looking for financial gain or for health.  The Kingdom that God invites us to join gives hope; the things of this world fade away and don’t give lasting hope.
2. The Kingdom of God is valuable.  The people in this parable gave up everything they had to have the Kingdom.  Life in the temporary isn’t what we’re living for.
3. There’s a hard truth:  If we’re going to be Christ-Followers, we must realize that Hell is a real thing.  Without Christ, there will be eternal separation from God. But with a relationship with Jesus we’ll have a life where we value the Kingdom of God, and we’ll have that Kingdom forever.

What did you do with the knowledge of my Son?”

 

Long before he became PUMC’s pastor, Pastor Mike has been posting these weekly “Catacomb Praise” videos on his Facebook page.  And now, we have reached the 200th episode!  The below video was made in the PUMC sanctuary, “filmed before a live studio audience”. And Pastor Mike was joined with some of his music friends from previous churches.

NOTE:  If you’re used to the PUMC sanctuary and wondering why everything on the chancel seems to be in the wrong location, it’s because the Front-Facing Camera of Pastor Mike’s iPad was used to make the recording.  Not to worry; we didn’t move the piano and organ to the opposite side of the room.  Yes- everything is indeed a mirror image!

 

Music: 

• “House of the Lord”     
• “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name”  
• “Holy Water”    
• “Firm Foundation”     
• “The Goodness of God” 
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Mighty to Save”      
• “How He Loves”  
• “Say The Name” (by Rebecca J Huseby… lyrics unavailable due to copyright restrictions)

Scripture:   Matthew 12:46-50   

Why Catacomb Praise?  It’s all about the refusal to be be silent about the Goodness of God.  Even in all of our hurt and confusion, it’s a chance to say “God You’re Good… we lift up Your Name.”  It’s not about the music style or the way we dress or the building we worship in.  Catacomb Praise is an opportunity for the Body of Christ to come together.  The whole body.  Our foundation isn’t our church or denomination, or town.  Our Foundation is Jesus.  Let’s not be ashamed to come together an life up the Name of Jesus.

Jesus’ family is “pretty large.”  His family is anyone who does the will of the Father.  The way to happiness is to hold on to the Kingdom of God.  It’s not the doctrine of our denomination.  What keeps us together is our faith in Jesus.  That’s where we’re going to find hope and peace.  

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If you’re still feeling a bit disoriented by the “mirror image”, here’s how it looked from the sanctuary balcony….

 

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Music: 

• “10,000 Reasons”   
• “Open the Eyes of My Heart”    
• “Forever Reign”   
• “I Stand Amazed”    
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “The Jesus Way” 
• “Firm Foundation”         

Scripture:  Ecclesiastes 3:1-8     

The only thing that counts is our faith in God…  Nature has seasons, but life also has “seasons”- times of difficulties and times of joy.  But, God is with us no matter what our circumstances are.  We’re not all in the same seasons; for some of us, we may be filled of joy.  But for others, we might be in a stretch of despair.  But if we’re faithful in the season we’re in, God will bless us.  Reach out to others who might be in discomfort, and accept others’ love when they reach out to us in our tough times.  Every season is a season where God is with us.

 

 

Music: 

• “Rattle”     
• “The Jesus Way”      
• “King of Kings”     
• “Because He Lives”     
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Priceless” (Written by Pastor Mike)   
• “Build My Life”      

Scripture:   Acts 2:1-21         

The Holy Spirit will accomplish His task.. We’re messed up, but we can ask Jesus to “clean us up” and to use us anyway. 

On Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out on God’s people in fresh and new ways.  The Holy Spirit wants to bring a fresh awakening on all of us.  The Holy Spirit is the driving force that gives the ability to serve, to heal and encourage each other, to go out into the field and share the Gospel.  Open your heart to a fresh awakening.  Open your heart to the Holy Spirit.  There might be new ways of doing it, but God’s message of love, hope, and redemption never change.

 

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Music: 

• “Praise”    
• ” Everything that Has Breath, Psalm 150” (music by Pastor Mike)   
• “Goodness of God”    
• “Good Good Father”   
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “The Heart of Worship”    
• “Here I Am to Worship”      

Scripture:    Luke 5:27-31  

People who are feeling well don’t need a doctor.  People who are perfectly “sinless” don’t need a Savior. 

But- are any of us REALLY perfect?  Sinless?!?  No way!  But Jesus calls us so that we can be forgiven and so that we can become more and more like Him.  Repentance; we do need to change.  And it’s not our effort;  we can’t take pride in any goodness that’s in us.  It’s all thanks to the Holy Spirit working in us.  Jesus said that we need to live in a different way.  We need to follow Him.  

Are we daily going to Christ saying “forgive me”?  Are we daily going to Christ open to the ways that we need to change?  That’s when we see His compassion that’s so full of hope and kindness.

The 200th episode of Catacomb Praise is coming soon!

On Monday March 3, 7:00 PM at PUMC, Catacomb Praise will be made In-Person and live.  Just like these videos, Catacomb Praise that night will be a laid back time to praise Jesus (as well as to be on hand for the “filming” of the 200th episode).  Stay tuned for details…

 

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Music: 

• “This is Amazing Grace”    
• “This is Our God”    
• “Enough”   
• “Over and Over Again” (written by Pastor Mike)   
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Shout to the Lord”   
• “Draw Me Close”    

Scripture:    Romans 8:18-21  

Suffering?  Our sufferings will be dwarfed by the good things that God has promised to us.  It’s easy to get bogged down in all of the things that are wrong.  In fact, there’s a saying in the newspaper industry that says “Whatever bleeds will lead.”  Talk about the bad stuff; that’s what people want to read. 

But we don’t have to focus on the bad things.  If we focus on our passion for God, things around us will change.  Most Christians haven’t experienced persecution, but we should all pray so that they will be able to stand up like Daniel.  God will give us courage.  God will give us hope.  Don’t give up on Jesus.  Continue to keep your eyes on Him.

 

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Music: 

• “My Redeemer Lives” 
• “Jesus Strong and Kind”   
• “My God Can Do Anything, How About Yours?”  (written by Pastor Mike)   
• “God So Loves” (Jn 3:16)
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Holy Forever”     
• “Priceless” (written by Pastor Mike)  

Scripture:   John 14:25-31   

Peace isn’t the same as “relaxation”.   A cup of coffee and your guitar might help you relax. But it’s temporary.  The coffee runs out and the guitar has to eventually be put away.  Something will come up and bring stress.  Bye bye relaxation.

But peace is the constant presence of the Holy Spirit in your life.  He burns inside your life- He never lets go.   Nothing temporary there.  If you have Jesus, you have everything.  Where is your “peace” coming from?  If it’s from God, it will be a continual day by day flow of peace. 

This week’s video bounced from location to location, and it includes a few “bonus tracks” that Pastor Mike played after the “end” of the regular video…

• “Living Hope“
• “Here I Am to Worship“
• “The Heart of Worship“

 

Music: 

• “Celebrate”    
• “Holy Water”    
• “Priceless” (written by Pastor Mike)   
• “Holy Forever”    
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “I Speak Jesus” 
• “Jesus Strong and Kind” 

Scripture:  Isaiah 40:31       

In music, a “rest” is just as important as a “note.”  If you miss a rest or hold it too long, the tempo is lost.  Sometimes we have to wait for God’s timing in order for things to come together.  While we’re waiting, we need to renew our hope, not jump in and try to make things work the way we want.  We need to trust in Jesus and His timing.  While we’re waiting, He will renew our strength (and use us to keep His perfect “tempo”).

Music: 

• “Praise”  
• “From the Inside Out”  
• “Love is Here”  
• “Worn” 
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “The Goodness of God”   
• “Priceless” (written by Pastor Mike)  

Scripture:      Isaiah 40:28-31 

Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired?  The answer is right in front of us!  Our faith keeps us going.  We can say that “I know this world is messed up…”, but we can still have hope and strength because God is always with us.  He never gives up.  The answer always starts with Jesus, and then the Holy Spirit challenges us to take action.  Just ask God to take the  #1 priority in your life; He won’t let you down.

 

 

Music: 

• “Born is the King (It’s Christmas)” 
• “What a Glorious Night” 
• “Holy Forever” 
• “Joy to the World (Unspeakable Joy)“
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Angels We Have Heard on High“
• “Priceless” (Written by Pastor Mike)

Scripture:     John 14:25-31 

PEACE:  Peace is different from “relaxation”.  It’s not temporary, it’s not dependent on circumstances.  Something will come up to bring stress in your life… the “relaxation” will be gone.  But Jesus promises a peace that won’t dry up; the world can’t give you anything like this.  The Holy Spirit from Jesus will guide you all the time, regardless of the circumstances.

This “episode of Catacomb Praise is a bit different.  In the beginning of this video, Pastor Mike lifts up some of PUMC’s upcoming Advent activities.  He then presents a concert of his own songs which was recorded at St. Mark’s UMC in Wilmington DE over the Thanksgiving holiday.  

 

 

 

Music: 

• “Ain’t No Grave”   
• “Christ is Enough“
• “Cornerstone” 
• “This is Christmas” (written by Pastor Mike)
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “From the Inside Out“
• “All the Poor and Powerless” 

Scripture:      Revelation 21:1-5    

What are we living for?  Things around us seem to be falling apart, but that’s not what we’re living for.  There’s something beyond our understanding; it’s beyond the gates of splendor.  We do need to work to fix our systems, but we know that they will always fail in some way.  But Jesus will never fail. If we live for the glory of the Lord, we’re living for something that won’t fall apart.  Knowing that we have a Savior gives us true purpose and hope.  He will give us the ability to bring hope, justice and peace to the people we encounter.  It’s all worth it.  Don’t leave your fight.  Persevere and keep your eyes on the prize.

 

The 150th episode of Catacomb Praise is coming up soon!  Pastor Mike will celebrate by presenting this episode live, at PUMC.  Stay tuned for details on the date and time.

 

 

 

Music: 

• “More than Conquerors”      
• “King of My Heart”       
• “Christmas Day”    
• “Way Maker”     
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Victory in Jesus”  

Scripture:       John 16:5-11 

It’s not our job to convince people to come to Jesus: The Holy Spirit does it.  We live out the Word, we witness in our actions, we share our experiences, but we never know how, when, or if our efforts will make a difference. God uses them in ways we never imagine.  The Holy Spirit is the One that changes lives.  We just lift up the Name of Jesus and offer encouragement. And, we go in the confidence that Jesus has won!  The powers of hell stand condemned and we don’t have to fall into the trap of temptations.  We know that by the power of the Holy Spirit, we CAN live lives to the glory of Jesus Christ.  We live our lives in victory!

 

Music: 

• “Rescuer”  
• “God So Loved” 
• “Living Hope” 
• “Little Drummer Boy” 
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Here I Am to Worship“
• “The Heart of Worship“

Scripture:   John 14:27       

Jesus leaves us with peace.  HIS peace.  Life (and Satan) messes with our minds and takes away any sense of peace.  This world gives- as long as you give it a reason to give you something back.  But, Jesus gives freely- no strings attached.  He gives not only eternal life and hope, but He gives….. Peace.  The world strips away our peace and gives us anxiety instead.  The peace of Christ doesn’t take away the problems, but it gives us a foundation that lets us say “I’m gong to get through this, no matter what happens.”  In the midst of our problems, we can know that Jesus is the Anchor, and the Anchor always holds.  Knowing Jesus brings us peace regardless of the storms we need to endure.

 

Music: 

• “My Redeemer Lives“
• “Jesus Strong and Kind”   
• “His Eye is on the Sparrow”    
• “My God Can do Anything, How About Yours?” (written by Pastor Mike)   
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Cornerstone”  
• “Forever We Sing Hallelujah”   

Scripture:       Psalm 34:18-19    

The Lord is near the weak.  He’s close to the brokenhearted and “crushed in spirit.”  He doesn’t take us away from troubles (even the righteous are “afflicted” ),  but He provides peace and comfort so we can get through the trouble.   Ultimately, He DOES rescue us by bringing us to the hope, joy, peace and life that are part of the new order of things in heaven.  But even on this earth, God gives us comfort.  He gives it through His people.  We need to be the hands and feet of Christ and comfort those who God leads us too. 

 

 

 

Pastor Mike’s son, Micha, joins in on this session of Catacomb Praise!

Music: 

• “This is Our God”    
• “The Old Rugged Cross”      
• “Jesus Strong and Kind”  
• “What a Glorious Night”    
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Oceans”     
• “Jesus Paid It All”   

Scripture:     Matthew 23:13-14 (NIV)    (Message Version)

We should never be roadblocks to invite people to the Kingdom of God.  But how are WE roadblocks???:  We are roadblocks when we’re afraid to share.  We’re roadblocks when we think it’s not worth sharing the Gospel.  But all lives can be changed by the Holy Spirit.  It’s not up to us to decide who will accept the message.  It’s up to us to tell the Gospel.  When you’re in an airport in  foreign country, you need to find someone who speaks your language so you can find your gate.  Each of us has an experience that “speaks a different language.”  The Gate is Jesus, and God gives us the abilities and opportunities to share the Good News with the people He brings us to.

  Music: 

• “House of the Lord”  
• “We Believe”     
• “Great Are You Lord” 
• “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” 
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “My God Can Do Anything” (written by Pastor Mike) 
• “More than Conquerors” 

Scripture:    Psalm 121  

Where is your hope?  Where does your help come from?  We all need something that’s more powerful than ourselves.  We need to look outside ourselves instead of focusing on our own weak abilities.  That something is Jesus.  There’s nothing like the strength the Holy Spirit can bring us, and that depends on  a relationship with Jesus.  Whatever you’re going through, Jesus is there.  Through prayer and faith there is hope and help.

 

 

As you watch the video, you’ll notice the graphic on the wall,  “Fruits of the Spirit. For more about this, see Galatians 5:13-16.

Music: 

• “Blessed Quietness (Joys Are Flowing Like a River)” 
• “Christmas Day”  
• “What About Jesus?”  (written by Pastor Mike)
• “Gratitude”  (meaning of Hallelujah)
• ~~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “Sanctuary“
• “One Pure and Holy Passion“

Scripture:   John 16:4-15 

Halloween isn’t about fear and horror; it’s about the Holy Spirit!  Don’t be afraid about the mystery of the Holy Spirit. 

1. Embrace the Holy Spirit.  It goes beyond what we can comprehend, but the Holy Spirit gives us strength to go on.  The Holy Spirit benefits us by being with us and empowering us to grow in Christ and to inspire others by our witness.  It’s not by our own power and might- it’s by the power of the Holy Spirit.
2. The ruler of this world is been condemned.  We’re going to win!  Evil gets its way sometimes, but it can never win.  Satan’s time is over. 

Hang on to truth, hope and the Holy Spirit.

 

Music:

• “Glory to God Forever”  
• “Go Tell It on the Mountain”  
• “God So Loved” 
• “It Is Well with My Soul” (story behind this hymn)
• ~ ~~ (devotion) ~~~
• “I Speak Jesus“
• “O Come to the Altar“

Scripture:    Matthew 5:3-10 

What’s a “blessing”?  Riches, power, influence, physical strength and beauty???  But Jesus turns it upside down.  It’s based on the heart and on ethics we don’t see in this world.  Blessings in this upside down view are things like:  meekness, weakness, hunger & thirst for righteousness (instead of power), mercy (not personal gain), peacemakers, persecution.  Jesus’ blessings are from God and they’re eternal.  Earthly blessings are from our own strength and are temporary. 

What are your blessings???

 

 

Music:

• “This is Amazing Grace”    
• “Hallelujah for the Cross”    (click here for the meaning of the word “hallelujah”)
• “Christmas Hallelujah”    
• “Great Are You Lord” 
• “We Win” (written by Pastor Mike)
• “Come Jesus Come”    

Scripture:  Revelation 22:16-17

Jesus is coming back to fix everything; make it all right, wipe away every tear, bring us back to the Garden where we walked one on one with God in perfect fellowship.  Nothing to hide, nothing to fear.  Just me and God.  Is that our prayer that Jesus will come into our our situation?  That He will come into our lives?  Don’t push Jesus away.  Invite Him into everything.

1- Jesus IS coming back.  Are you ready???  Why wait?  Kneel now, pray now.  Welcome Him in. 2- Come Jesus Come… into today’s current situations.  Not only in an unknown future, but Jesus is ready to help you NOW.

 

 

 

Music:

• “House of the Lord”  
• “Holy Water”  
• “We Win!” (written by Pastor Mike)
• “Love is Here” 
• “The Blessing” 
• “How Great Thou Art”  

Scripture:  John 20:19-20   

The disciples were in fear and they hid. Even though Jesus told them what would happen, the disciples ran away.  Wouldn’t we do the same thing?  But like He did for those disciples so long ago, Jesus comes to our own “locked rooms” and  shows up just at the right time.  He always brings exactly what we need.  Even if we don’t look for Him, He shows up when we need Him.  

You just never know how or when Jesus will show up; so never stop praying. Never stop trusting, never stop holding on to Jesus.  Stay connected.  Jesus uses others to do miraculous things, any you never know how His loving hand will touch you (see song “Waymaker“).  When it seems that all is lost, stay connected to the Vine (John 15).  Even when you’ve prayed 1,000,000 times, pray 1,000,001 times.  God is looking at a plan that’s bigger than we could imagine, and it will come.  We will win when we’re focused on Him.

 

Music:

•  “Your Grace is Enough”   
• “If We Are the Body“
•  “No Sweeter Name”  
• “Goodness of God“
• “In Christ Alone” 
• “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)”     

Scripture:  Matthew 8:5-10      

The Centurion’s servant was near death, so this Roman soldier came to Jesus.  But he came in humility, understanding the holiness of Jesus.  He told Jesus ” I don’t deserve to have you come under my roof.”  But the Centurion also understood Jesus’ authority.  He placed his total faith in Jesus, saying “just say the word and my servant will be healed.”  Do we understand our own unworthiness?  Do we really understand that if we have Jesus, we have everything?  Through the Holy Spirit and through Jesus’ authority, we have power against anything that may come against us.

 

 

Music:

• “Sing to the King”    
• “Less Like Me”    
• “King of Kings”   
• “Living Hope”     
• “Power in the Blood“
• “Waymaker“

Scripture:   Colossians 3:23-24

We all have opportunities to be witnesses and to be in ministry; you don’t have to be a full-time pastor.      If you repair cars, or teach, or pump gas… or anything else…. God has given you the ability to be an amazing witness.  Through the Spirit’s power, we are called to let people know that Jesus cares.  The Bible says that whatever you do, do it unto the Lord.  Let’s all work together to Make His Name famous!

 

 

Music:

• “God’s Not Dead (Like a Lion)”  
• “I’ll Fly Away”  
• “Praise” 
• “Over and Over Again” (written by Pastor Mike)
• “Cornerstone“
• “I Speak Jesus“

Scripture:

• Isaiah 40:29-31

Sometimes we forget God’s continual guidance and we worry.  Sometimes life isn’t easy and we feel weak.  But God promises to renew our strength and give us the victory.  Keep your eyes on Jesus.  Put one foot in front of the other, and don’t dare give up.  

 

 

Music:

• In Tenderness He Sought Me
• Are You Washed in the Blood
• Fill this Room (written by Pastor Mike)
• Mighty to Save
• Great Are You Lord

Scripture:

• Psalm 26 

Wealth is not the measurement of our standing with Jesus.  Just because you’re close to Christ, that doesn’t mean that there won’t be rough times.  Bad things happen and life can seem unfair.  Life can be painful.  But if we keep seeking Jesus, He will give us vindication and redemption.  God has a plan that will make all things right.  So don’t give up; keep seeking, keep asking, keep praying.