Friday, May 18, 2012

“The God Who is Our Banner”

Flags and banners have played a crucial role in matters of warfare down through the centuries. To the confused or discouraged soldier on the battlefield, the sight of his country’s flag could serve to both direct and inspire. Even today, the sight of our nation’s flag stirs me deeply. It causes me to reflect on those who’ve died for my freedoms and it inspires me to live as an appreciative, contributing citizen. Flags say something to those who look upon them.

In Exodus 17:8-15, we read a story in which Jehovah-Nissi makes Himself known in greater clarity. It’s a story that teaches us something very important about God. While battling the Amalekites, God instructs Moses to stand on a nearby hill with his arms outstretched to the heavens. In doing this, he was acknowledging that God alone was Israel’s strength and their source of victory in battle. When Moses’ hands were lifted up and outstretched, the Israelites prevailed in the battle. However, when Moses’ hands began to fall, the Amalekites would prevail in the battle. With help from Aaron and Hur, Moses kept his hands lifted to God for the entire day and, eventually, Israel defeated the ruthless Amalekites.

This Sunday, as we continue our series, “The God Who Makes Things Happen,” I’ll be sharing a message I believe will encourage and inspire each of us to keep our hands lifted to God just like Moses. God wants us to make Him our focal point in every battle we face in this life.

Without God we fail but with Him we prevail!

pastor jamie

Greeters: Dianna Heckman Family

Welcome Center: Tom & Paivi Brack Family

Nursery:

Babies (age 0 through walking): Stephanie Shafer and Glenna Kyle

Walkers & Talkers (Walking through 36 months): Theresé Stevens and Christy Lyon

Movers & Shakers (Toddlers – ages 3-4): Linda Wells (Hunter Collyott and Samantha Nelson)

Cruisers (PreK-K – ages 5-6): Angie Eaves (Sonja Eaves)

Pathfinders (Grades 1-3): Dianna Heckman, Wyatt Heckman and Isabella Heckman

EXB-a.m.: Rick & Diane Yates and Matt & Jennifer Pierce