Gathering For Worship

There’s a spiritual experience that we can have when we gather with other believers that we cannot have by ourselves.  The gathered-together experience has to do with encouragement, support, speaking into each others lives, and seeing God in others, among other things. I look forward to that shared spiritual experience today, worshiping God with people I love!

Recognizing Jesus As God

“‘If any man would be my disciple, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow me.’  Only God would dare say that!  What a relief that He is God.” – Author, Eugenia Price.  Eugenia Price is right, the things that Jesus said are actually audacious… unless He is God.  I, too, choose to recognize Him as God.

What's Coming Up This Sunday - Audio Podcast

Lisa Roule, Stephanie Chiocca and I talk about what's happening at the services this Sunday, Sept. 30, 2012.

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Ready For God

Sometimes people are simply not ready to embrace God and walk with God.  This is often the case because they are still operating under the assumption that they can handle things quite well on their own and don’t need God.  Fortunately, the realities of life usually force us to see the folly of our supposed self-sufficiency.  At that point, hopefully, we are ready.

Reconciling The Past -- Audio Podcast

Luke 19:1-10

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Yes, It's Simple, But It's True

I used to think it was cliché and simplistic to say, “Jesus is the answer.”  I felt that the phrase contained truth but that it was too trite and convenient to be meaningful.  But as I get older and experience more of life, I’m finding that there is an elegant beauty and a fundamentally profound reality in understanding the truth that: Jesus is the answer.

What Does It Mean To Be Tolerant?

The true definition of “tolerance” is not the idea that everyone agrees on all issues or, even, that we understand everyone’s position on a matter to be correct.  The fact is that genuine tolerance can only actually happen when we disagree.  However, being tolerant means that we disagree respectfully and graciously.

What We Believe Matters

It’s helpful for us to be careful and attentive to the things that we believe.  We can get sidetracked in our faith by believing things that are not true; or, by not believing things that are true.  What we believe matters.

Dan and Vic Podcast for 9/24/12

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Understanding Community

Our lives don’t happen in a vacuum. Who we are and what we do affects other people. It is a lie to say, “what I do is just about me.” All of us are connected to something larger than just ourselves.  We are part of a social unit that is more than just ourselves.  This reality is essential to the basic understanding of community.

It's Good To Gather Together To Worship God

There’s an encouragement of our souls and a strengthening of our faith that happens when we gather with other believers to worship God.  This encouragement and strengthening is important, very helpful and—according to the Bible—it is necessary for those who really want to honor God and grow to be more Christ-like.

A Certain Type of Puzzled Look

Yesterday, a guy fervently requested that I change something that I have no ability to change. What he requested involves an organization in which I have some involvement, but it is an organization in which I have no authority.  When I informed him about my lack of authority he continued, for another 10 minutes, to passionately request that I change their approach to the matter, anyhow.   

…Yes, I looked around for Ashton Kutcher or some type of Punk’d-style hidden cameras but I never saw any. I must have a look on my face that invites a certain type of puzzling interaction.

Guard Your Heart

Because there are troubles, difficulties and disappointments in life, our hearts can become cynical and bitter—we can become hard-hearted.  With God’s help, it’s important for us to be aware of this possibility and to resist it.  “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.”  Prov. 4:23.

Finding Stability In God

We have a very natural desire to simplify life and make it predictable, understandable and, to some extent, within our control.  The problem, of course, is that life can be unpredictable, confusing and, frankly, quite messy.  (Have you noticed there is much we cannot control? Yeah, me too.)  I find stability in God.  “Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.” Ps.62:6.

Pleasing God

We will never please all the people in our lives.  It’s impossible. (You’ve noticed, right?) This reality helps to remind me that I shouldn’t even try to please all the people in my life.  In fact, the main objective should be to please the One who really matters: God.  Here’s a good prayer for me:  “Lord, I want to do your will. Holy Spirit give me the power to live for you. I want my life to give you pleasure, Lord.”

Rachel Tells Me About Sharing

Rachel just told me that when I use my money to buy her a CD that’s what it means for her and I to “share.” I asked, “At what point in our sharing agreement will you use your money?” And she ignored me. Is it possible that she could be a politician someday?

Go Ahead And Have A Little Fun

Sometimes Christians inadvertently give the impression that because there are important and serious matters going on in our world, therefore, it’s frivolous and inappropriate to just have fun, once in a while.  It is not inappropriate to have fun.  In fact, joy—which is related to fun—is a significant aspect of the Christian life.  So… relax, smile, and remember that it’s okay to experience great joy.  And while you’re at it, go ahead and have fun.

A Clean Slate -- Audio Podcast

Psalm 103:7-12 and Romans 8:1.  First message in the Fall Kick Off 2012 series.

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God's Love, Before You Were Born

When did God start loving you?  Answer:  Before you were ever born.  “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:13&14.

They Call Him Goldie!

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No Condemnation? Sounds Good, Huh?

It’s possible that there is no voice of condemnation that you hear as powerfully and as frequently as your own voice of condemnation. That has, occasionally, been my experience. That’s why this passage of scripture is so helpful and powerful for those me: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…” Romans 8:1.

  

FALL KICK-OFF 2012, is today!  Sunday, September 16th (9am or 11am).  If you live in the Chicago area, you won't want to miss this terrific service!

First Church of God, 4600 W. 111th Street, Oak Lawn, IL

Blessings,

Dan

The Difficulties of Life Do Not Have To Defeat Us

Right after Jesus told His disciples that there would be trials and sorrows in this world, He said this, “But take heart, because I have overcome the world!” (John 16:33)  In other words, the difficult realities of this world do not defeat us.  The One who is in us is victorious and that means that, with Him, we are victorious, too!  

E-Flash From Dan 9/14/12 -- Fall Kick Off Info

Dear E-Flash Friends;

I have that sense of anticipation and energy that emerges when something big is coming.  You know by now what it is, right?  Yes, the Fall Kick Off is coming this Sunday, September 16^th.  This is going to be the beginning of a new journey for us as a church.  We’ll be starting a new 3-week series titled:  A Fresh Start and a New Journey.   You won’t want to miss this one, I believe God is going to use it powerfully.

Also, we’ll be starting our new, expanded Next Step format on Wednesday nights.  Next Step will now start at 6pm and this week (Sept. 19^th) we will begin at 6 o’clock with a dinner (free of charge) that is being prepared for all!  Sounds like a pretty good deal, huh?

We’ll have the first of our Sunday evening learning times with “The Case For A Creator”  by on Sunday, October 14^th, at 6pm.

We’ll be launching the Alpha course on Sunday mornings, in between the services, on October 21^st.

Whew!!!  It’s cool!  (And just think, Trunk or Treat is coming is October, too.  So, we’ve got a sugar rush just around the corner, as well!  “Why, yes, I’d love another Kit Kat, thank you for asking.”)

If you want to hear a bit more about the Fall Kick Off (and, come on, who doesn’t?) take a moment to check out the What’s Coming Podcast with Lisa Roule, Stephanie Chiocca and myself.  You don’t want to miss the fun of this podcast!  Go ahead and click on the link to listen.  Link…   http://visitusonline.org/scmedia.php?type=mediaplayer&loc=visitusonline.org/media/media/mediaplayer.php&id=201209131109360CC053

Good things are happening and we give God the glory.  Hope to see you this Sunday!

Love and blessings,

Dan

P.S.  The guys are leading the worship this Sunday, so get ready for the wonderful approach and the terrific energy they bring!

Growth Requires Stretching

It is the nature of growth and learning that it requires us to stretch beyond our current level.  So, significant growth is almost always difficult in some way.  “There will be nothing learned from any challenge in which we don’t try our hardest. Growth comes at the point of resistance.” – Josh Waitzken, The Art of Learning

What's Coming Podcast with Dan, Lisa & Stephanie

Dan Marler, Lisa Roule & Stephanie Chiocca talk about what's coming this weekend 9/16/12.  The 2012 Fall Kick-Off.  This one is really fun.  Take a listen!

               Click here for audio!

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Boast About God

Christians never get tired of proclaiming and celebrating what Jesus has done for us.  His love for us and His work on the cross—on our behalf—is astonishing, glorious, and amazing.  “…Christ made us right with God; he made us pure and holy; and he freed us from sin. Therefore, as the Scriptures say, ‘If you want to boast, boast only about the Lord.’” 1 Corinthians 1:30-31.

A Long Distance Healing -- Audio Podcast

Text: John 4:43-54

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Made For Another World

C.S. Lewis writes eloquently about the longings and desires of our heart that point to something more, something beyond this life and this world.  “If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world.”

Remembering 9/11

Even very significant events have a way of growing dim in our memories over time. It is part of being human. But some events should continue to be pointed to and spoken of because the sobering truths they reveal are too important for us to forget. So we very intentionally remember the actions of September 11, 2001. May God grant us wisdom as we ponder this consequential day.

Laughter Is Important

For years, I’ve been saying that laughter and those who can make us laugh are of great value. (I don’t think anyone’s been listening, but I’ve been saying it, anyhow!) I’m not just suggesting that laughter is enjoyable (that part is obvious) but I’m also insisting that there is something very important about laughter for human beings.  So, today, I was pleased to read the following comment from a respected historian:  

“…[T]he comics are the most valuable. The world is a vale of tears, always has been and surely always will be. Those who can dry our tears, and force reluctant smiles to trembling lips, are more precious to us, if the truth be told, than all the statesmen and the generals and brainy people, even the great artists. For they ease the agony of life a little, and make us even imagine the possibility of being happy.” – Historian, Paul Johnson

Letting Our Lives Do The Persuading

Rather than argue for Jesus it is often far more persuasive to let our lives point to the beauty and reality of Jesus.  And, of course, that happens best when our lives have been truly transformed by the presence of Christ living in us.

One Lonely Shoe, All By Itself

I saw one shoe—one lonely shoe—in a parking lot, today. That’s weird, isn’t it? Did someone not notice that one shoe had come off while continuing to wear the other? Or, does this suggest that there is a one-legged person now walking around barefoot? Why just one shoe? …These are the kinds of important, penetrating, meaningful, challenging questions that I ponder. Which may indicate that more therapy is needed.

Dan & Vic Fall Kick Off 2012 Podcast

Take a listen!  It's fun!

            Click here for audio!

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A Mustard Seed of Faith

According to Jesus, even a small amount of faith is significant.  “…[T]ruly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” – Jesus, Matt. 17:20.  Wow!  Move a mountain, huh?  "Lord, give us a mustard seed of faith."

Jesus Encounter The Woman At The Well -- Audio Podcast

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The Bible and Transformation

The Bible isn’t supposed to be a book that we study only to gain historical information or learn ideas about God.  The Bible is God’s word that has been given to move, guide and affect us.  The point of studying God’s word isn’t just to increase our knowledge it is also to transform our lives.  As we come into contact with God’s word, the Holy Spirit uses it to make us more like Christ.

Should God Stay In His Proper Place?

Some people believe that there is no God.  I understand that reality.  Hold on!  Don’t get nervous.  It’s not that I agree with that position.  I strongly disagree.  I’m simply saying I realize there are people with that belief.

It’s harder for me to understand when people state that they believe there is a God but this God and His role in our lives is strictly a private matter.  When people say they believe in an Almighty Creator God—like the God of the Bible—but this God should not be trotted out to affect our lives in any public way, that seems like a strange position to hold.

This suggests that God is either irrelevant to some areas of life or that His relevance should only be manifested in an unnoticeable, personal and private way.

I understand that we live in a pluralistic culture and this will involve some sensitivities when it comes to our public convictions about God.  Furthermore, I understand that people have abused the idea of God or used it to their selfish advantage, and that is certainly wrong.  Furthermore, the abuse of God creates additional sensitivities for people in regard to our public convictions about God.

However, I wonder:  Do these people, who believe that the Almighty Creator God should be confined to certain personal and private areas of life, think that He will be a good boy and stay in His proper place?

Do these people, who believe that the Almighty Creator God should be confined to certain personal and private areas, think that they know what God’s proper place should be?  Are they going to make Him stay in His proper place?  Do they control Him and who He is and what He’s going to do?

And if some people can control this God—because He has a tendency to be politically incorrect and He might possibly make some things uncomfortable—just what kind of God is this?

Again, the belief that there is no God at all, from a logical standpoint, actually makes more sense to me than the idea of a compliant God who can be sent to His room by people who find Him to be a bit too uncomfortable for the general public.  This God who can be “grounded”—whoever He is—is definitely not the God who is described in the Bible.

The Importance of The Way We Treat Each Other

As we grow in Christ there is a way that we treat each other that reflects the truth of Jesus alive in us.  For example, check out this passage: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32.  It would be very nice if there was a lot of this kind of behavior going around, wouldn’t it?

Free From Condemnation

How would you like to feel free from condemnation?  That reality is experienced in Christ.  Here’s what it says in Romans 8:1&2, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.” 

What About Near-Death Experiences?

Medical researcher, Dr. Jeffrey Long, “People who have near-death experiences are generally unconscious or clinically dead at the time of their experience. It is medically inexplicable that they would have any conscious experiences, let alone experiences so packed with evidence pointing to an afterlife.”  Hmm, seems to suggest that a purely materialistic explanation of life is inadequate, huh?

How Has Jesus Changed The World?

Review of:  "Who Is This Man?"

If you were to ask people, “who is the most significant and influential person who has ever lived?” many would say, “Jesus.”  Even people who are not Christians or people who are not particularly religious would be inclined to say that Jesus is the most influential person who has ever lived.

I would be quick to agree with that answer.  But if you were to say to people, “give me specific examples of how Jesus has impacted areas like the arts, or education, or deeply ingrained attitudes about humility, or forgiveness, or the treatment of children,” most of us would probably not be able to offer specific details.

In this book, “Who Is This Man?” by John Ortberg, the specific details are provided.

I find the content of this book to be interesting, compelling and, even, exciting—I should probably admit that as a Christian I have a fairly strong bias in favor of Jesus.  But when a book is really good it also has to with the fact that the author of the book is a wonderfully gifted communicator.  Even with my bias in favor of Jesus, I have read a number of books about him that were… um… well… a bit dull.

That is not the case with “Who Is This Man?”  John knows how to tell stories, he knows how to use humor well, he knows how to communicate in a way that resonates with a reader (at least, he knows how to do it with this reader).

I read approximately 80 books every year.  I can confidently tell you this is one of the best books I’ve read in the past 4 to 6 weeks. 

(I’m kidding… it’s one of the best books I’ve read this year!  Seriously, it is.)

Dan Marler

Oak Lawn, IL

E-Flash From Dan, Sept. 1, 2012

Dear E-Flash Friends;

Some of you might be thinking, “If I go to church on the Labor Day weekend will I get some kind of extra credit from God?”  And of course, we all know God doesn’t work that way.  Come on, don’t be silly.  It’s not that you will get extra credit from God.  In fact, I’m chuckling at such an amusing thought.  No, you won’t get extra credit for attending on the Labor Day weekend, it’s just that *God will sort of like you a little bit more.

So, I’m hoping to see you all at church this Sunday, September 2^nd!

By the way, we really do have a terrific service planned.  We will have great worship music.  And I have a message, from the story of Jesus and the woman at the well, that I believe God will use to challenge and inspire us.

And don’t forget that our Fall Kick-Off is coming on September 16^th; A Fresh Start And A New Beginning.”  This year the Falll Kick Off includes the roll out of our new Next Step format on Wednesday nights.  Please pray that God will use our church in powerful ways.  I’m believing that He will! 

Love and blessings,

Dan

  

* Note:  Just in case it’s only obvious to me, please know that this is a joke.

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A Faith That Is First-Hand And Personal

Authentic Christian faith is not just a system involving intellectual beliefs; in fact, it is incredibly personal.  “…[B]eing a Christian means being, in some sense, part of Christ.  Christians believe that they are ‘in him, and he in us…’” —Malcolm Guite.  If you are a Christian, here’s a fair question: is your faith in Christ first-hand, vital and personal?