On this day, it is good to acknowledge the courage of Martin Luther, whose challenge of the Roman Catholic church on October 31, 1517, tipped the momentum of the Protestant Reformation. Since then, there has been an avalanche of revelation, Scripture distribution, innovation, and church leadership access.
We celebrate the light of the gospel given to all humanity!
Month: October 2020
Happy birthday, Lincoln!
Happy 17th birthday to my youngest son, Lincoln. I like everything about this guy!
People of conviction
This statement was in my notes today but did not make it in the sermon. Still, I think it is important to consider:
If there is never a time when a conviction conflicts with someone you like, then you probably are not living as the Lord’s servant.
“For am I now trying to persuade people, or God? Or am I striving to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” – Galatians 1:10
Remembering Don George and Lynn Hancock
On Thursday, I went to Dallas for Pastor J. Don George‘s funeral. It was a hard but beautiful day. I saw old friends, many that I did not even have the chance for a conversation. I am blessed to be part of the company of pastors who descend from Pastor George’s ministry.
This picture is a treasure to me. Pastor George and Jaroy Carpenter are anointing me with oil before a mission trip in 1990. Behind us is Calvary’s long-time worship leader Lynn Hancock, extending his hand in prayer towards us. Lynn also passed away just a few weeks ago. He was such a good friend to my family and me in my formative years. I learned how to worship in Lynn’s ministry.
I am sad Pastor George and Lynn Hancock have passed away, but I know I will see them again.
Night of Worship (October 22)
“But an hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and in truth. Yes, the Father wants such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in Spirit and in truth.” – Jesus
Grace and Peace
During Sunday’s sermon, we looked at the important phrase “grace and peace.” Paul used it when he wrote:
“Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ (Galatians 1:3).”
After an analysis of the Greek word for grace (charis), theologian William Barclay concluded:
“When Paul prays for grace to be bestowed on his friends, it is as if he were saying: ‘May the beauty of the undeserved love of God be on you, so that it will make your life lovely, too.'”
I like that. Grace be with you today and every day.
The passing of J. Don George (1937-2020)
We lost a spiritual giant today, as Pastor J. Don George went to his heavenly reward. The loss was sudden and unexpected.
He was my pastor growing up, so he is the preacher I have heard more sermons from than any other person. But, he was more than a great preacher to me. He was a life-long example of class and professionalism. I learned so much about leadership by just watching his life. I also learned a lot about friendship by observing how loyal he was to friends. He was a good friend to me.
No one preaches like J. Don George. Here is a one minute clip from 2017 that will build your faith and bring a smile to your face.
Aaron's Angle 