A Word from Our Pastor...

THE COURAGE TO ENDURE FAITH-SIZED TRIALS FOR CHRIST
An exerpt from “Joy In Living Worthily”, part 4 of Pastor Ron’s sermon series: A Journey Into Joy: Applying the major themes of Paul’s letter to the Philippians

Throughout his years in office, Abraham Lincoln was a president under fire, especially during the scarring years of the Civil War. And though he knew he would make errors while serving in office, he resolved never to compromise his integrity. So strong was this resolve that he once said, "I desire so to conduct the affairs of this administration that if at the end, when I come to lay down the reins of power, I have lost every other friend on earth, I shall at least have one friend left, and that friend shall be down inside of me." Today In The Word, August, 1989, p. 21.

Lincoln knew what Paul knew: that it was better to suffer for righteousness’ sake, than to secure any amount of freedom, peace or popularity in order to avoid suffering.

It is all too easy in life to just take the easier route – the road that is less likely to lead us to trials and suffering. And it is no different when it comes to spiritual realities. It would have been easy for the Philippian believers to just choose freedom, peace or popularity at the expense of the gospel. They could walk down the streets of the city of Philippi and gaze upon the temptations and sensations of Roman life - and just be enamoured with it – get enticed by it. And it would have been all too easy for them to weigh the benefits of living such a life – against having to adhere to the costly, selfless and sacrificial values Jesus had called them to.

The call to “carry” one’s “cross” is not exactly an attractive message in our post-Christian culture, nor, will I suggest is it attractive to the culture of the church! We, by nature, flee from the prospect of pain and suffering. We repel it. But Paul did not shrink back from the trials brought on by his faith. Rather, he regarded suffering for Jesus as a privilege. And more, he saw suffering and persecution as being sent by God and required by Him. Look at Philippians 1:29 “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him...”
Sometimes it’s hard to exist as a person of faith in Jesus Christ alongside the values of the world. It’s where two kingdoms collide. Yet while we do, we are to live lives worthy of the gospel – as people who belong to another city – the kingdom of heaven. C. S. Lewis said, “In the truest sense, Christians have the best of both worlds. We have joy whenever this world reminds us of the next, and we have peace whenever it does not.” And that was why Paul could rejoice in living worthily for the gospel, and worthy of His Saviour, even if that meant having to endure opposition and trial. For Paul - there was always spiritual gain in worldly pain. For the apostle, it was always about the gain – spiritually – and it was his heart and prayer that the church in Philippi would see it the same way – just as we should, today.

A message from our pastor

God, the Gospel and Starbucks

In Leonard Sweet’s book “The Gospel According to Starbucks,” the author claims that one of the reasons why the juggernaut coffee company has been so successful, is due to how the company provides the atmosphere which envelopes their product: coffee. Sweet claims that we don’t really “stand in line” for “a cup” of coffee, but that we “stop” to take in the “experience” surrounding that coffee. Sweet goes on relate that experience to how we approach God sometimes, explaining, “Too many of us line up for God out of duty or guilt. We completely miss out on the warmth and richness of the experience of living with God.” I wonder if the original, twelve disciples ever felt they were missing something in their association with Jesus. He called them; they followed, and kept going with the Lord, all the way to the ascension. However, is it possible that even though the Lord Himself was with them, that at different points the disciples’ experience of God became a bit mechanical and abstract? They stood next to the Truth, but often the Gospel accounts show us – the followers of Jesus didn’t comprehend the truth of that experience. They didn’t always get the fact that Jesus was transcendent – and that a total experience of His presence and ministry couldn’t be encapsulated in one spot. Peter found that out at the event of the “Transfiguration.”

Going to church can be like that as well. Many of us go to worship service every Sunday because it is the thing we always do (The Lord’s day). And in a real sense, every Sunday, as if going out for coffee, we too take our place in the “line up,” wait to come to “the counter” as it were, in order to receive the product we came for. And the truth is, sometimes, like sitting down with our coffees and friends we can look for a total package of what it means to experience God – in our weekend services. And we should look for God at work, and indeed experience Him in our corporate worship services, because the Bible says - God “inhabits” the praises of His people. Yet what about when we don’t “feel” the all-inspiring, all-encompassing presence of the Holy Spirit in our seats or pews? What about when we don’t feel like we are “getting” all we should in a service? What about the times when the sermon is just mediocre, and we can’t wait to leave? A point to make here is that perhaps we are not meant to experience all we would like to on a Sunday morning. What is really obtrusive here is that we may feel that we should be experiencing the total package of what it means to worship God in our “church” atmosphere. Starbucks gives us an experience that compliments the product it sells, right where we are. We don’t need to go anywhere else. It’s all there for us. And yet, God, and the reality of the Gospel, cannot be packaged as such.

We definitely cannot experience all that is God, and all we want from Him - in any given Sunday service. The worship service is a microcosm of what it means to live out the Gospel every day. In our church experience - we praise, we give, we read, we listen, we serve, we pray. However, God is not limited to that one-day experience. If we want to be blessed in addition to the Sunday service, we need to keep in mind that we can experience Him just as much, the minute we step a toe outside the front door of the building. I like how Sweet puts it: We need to “...learn to pay attention...to identify where God is already in business right in your neighbourhood.” And so, if we are looking to drink a great cup of coffee, in an atmosphere that enables and completes a great experience – nothing else needed but a good book or conversation – go to Starbucks. If we want to experience a relationship with a great God, and observe how big He is, how multi-faceted His love and resources are – by all means, please go to church, but remember, you will need to look outside of there, too. In fact He might be working at the local mall, recreation centre, pub, school, and yes, even Starbucks.

A Message from our pastor

"A Journey Into Joy"
An excerpt from the Sunday morning Sermon Series at Highland Lakes on Paul's letter to the Philippians - by Rev. R. Mahler

Have you ever wanted to discover a happiness that circumstances simply cannot alter? Have you ever longed to meet and know people of authenticity? If you have, you’re not alone. There are other people out there like you who have that same desire. I am one of them! I also believe the apostle Paul was one of them. It was that desire that lead Paul to write a letter to the first century church in the city of Philippi. The city was named by the father of Alexander the Great (Phillip) who conquered it in 357 B.C. It became a Roman colony a few hundred years later, and as a result, Philippi became quite populated and acquired great wealth. Philippi was also home to a plethora of ancient religions due to the fact that people from all regions to the west and to the east, moved into the area. If you are familiar with the complexion of a city like Toronto - at the present time, that is the kind of cosmopolitan-like environment Philippi resembled in its day. Cultural life in the city took on a distinct “Hellenistic” flavour, where one could enjoy every aspect of Greek culture and what it had to offer. But then the Gospel of Christ came to Philippi through Paul and others, and that caused an uproar in the city. Not only were Paul and Silas put in prison, they were “severely flogged” for having shared about their faith in Christ to the locals. (Acts 16:23)

However, the end product was nothing short of amazing. A church was established there, and one of the most encouraging letters in all of the NT, (Philippians), was born out of Paul’s affection and burden for the spiritual vitality of the young church. Philippians is known as a letter that doesn’t really address any dominant, glaring ecclesiastical or theological issue. With that said, it would appear from the letter that the church was experiencing some degree of disunity. In addition to that, the Christians in Philippi faced a daily barrage of societal demands and temptations placed upon them by their pagan culture. And so Philippians is a caveat of sorts - or a warning from Paul that the church needed to remain Christ-like despite all that impressed upon it - within its pagan context and culture. In spite of that historical setting and reality, Philippians has become known as a letter of “joy.” Paul was concerned mostly that the believers in the city of Philippi live lives worthy of their calling. That in both, profession and practice, the gospel they believed in - would be lived out – and - with joy. For it would be as a result of their unique “joy,” that their fellow city dwellers would take notice.

When you read the letter to the Philippians you see in words - how much Paul had changed from the days when he was a militant, anti-Christian Pharisee - who zealously sought to keep the Jewish law. In the letter we witness a man who was totally transformed by Jesus Christ, to the point where he had become a model for the church in Philippi - to be influenced and encouraged by. Also, we see a man communicating that despite one’s circumstances, it is still possible to reflect a steadfast Christ-likeness, marked by an unshakable “joy.” Paul would know, for he was writing to the Philippians from a prison cell. The apostle suffered much in his attempts to evangelize a great portion of what is now modern-day Asia and Europe. In the wake of his ministry though, many house churches were started, and an innumerable amount of people became disciples of Jesus. And as was the case with the Philippian believers, we today, live in a less than ideal world where our faith is often broadsided and side-swiped by the harsh and challenging realities of life around us. How do we get through? As humans, we naturally yearn for the latest recipe that promises a long-lasting, bullet-proof joy. As well, we like to reserve our right to avoid having that joy taken from us!

This pursuit can be time-consuming, financially strapping, as well as emotionally draining. It is an elusive and deceiving task. Instead of all that - let’s exhort each other in the true manner of Paul. That being, to embrace the things in life that impress upon and challenge our faith in Christ, in order that we might discover how circumstances can actually chisel our faith, and reveal a joy we never thought existed. In that - we may well discover and experience what true Christian joy can be like. The kind of joy Paul speaks of in Philippians – a supernatural, unshakeable joy. That is the true challenge and message of Philippians. I hope you will learn much from this marvellous, joyous letter, as I aim to – in studying and preaching from it - over the coming weeks at Highland Lakes. Please join us – especially - if you need some joy! I know you do!!

A Message from our pastor

March Blog Message --- by Rev. Ron Mahler
“The World Can Be Bad, But God is Good”

The Bible says that one day, “like a thief in the night,” Jesus will return to this earth. What the final days will be like for all those who inhabit planet earth – has been recorded for almost two-thousand years. And in our own time, the signs of “the end” are becoming closer and bolder. AND yet – as we observe the attitude of our time, and gaze at what is going on in the world today, we see people living like they are going to be around forever. Time magazine – not too long ago – featured on their cover, a picture of the heads of the two most powerful countries smiling at each other – over the words” “Building a New World.” Many people refuse to believe that an end to our existence is even possible. YET even in last ten years we have seen tremendous changes in the world. And we have seen the signs of our time that appear to point to the final or the “last days” that Jesus was talking about – and which Matthew recorded in his gospel.
The purpos

e of this message is not to provide a full-scale evaluation of the prophecies from Jesus’ words in Matthew 24. The task before us isn’t even attempting to decipher in detail – what exactly will happen in the future. Rather, our task is to examine how God wants us to live, and in light of that, what He promises for those who have put their faith in Him. Jesus talked a lot about the future. He also related the future to present-day living, and He told His disciples about the future to encourage them to rest in Him during times of great hardship and turmoil. When the work of the Church is nearing its fulfillment on earth, Jesus said there would be “signs” that the final hours had come. “Immediately after the suffering of those days, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.” (v.29) Jesus then said, “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He will send His angels and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.”(V.v. 31-32)

Jesus indeed gave us some vivid and concrete details about what the final days and hours will be like. Matthew 24 and other passages in the gospels are loaded with them. The Lord was constantly getting people to interpret the times. He did this so that they would know His return was near, which would serve to embolden them in their faith and witness. But in talking with people, there’s this impression you get that a lot of us don’t want to think about the future times – even Christians. Except, that is, for the two evangelists who sat beside the road to an old bridge. Each was holding a sign saying, “Beware the end is coming.” Every time a car went by, they held up their signs. After hearing several loud crashes, one said to the other, “Do you think we should have said, “Beware the bridge is out?” But you know, the saddest thing is a church that goes about their business and plans, without the end in sight. Yet when we do keep one eye on the future, it gives urgency to our mission and to our evangelism, both individually and corporately. Simply, Jesus called us to know the times and to read the signs of our day – that point to His coming back. If we do, someone around us might just come to faith!

Revelation Series

Due to the number of people asking Pastor Ron for copies of his sermon series from the book of Revelation, we have created a booklet. Please speak to him if you'd like a copy.

STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART

February has always been considered “heart” month – and the main reason for that is because it hosts Valentine’s Day. Yes – that time of year that we usually express our love, or at least, make some practical effort to express our love and appreciation for someone/significant other. If you are a husband – that is a day you do not want to miss! It’s up there with the wedding anniversary! After all, a nice bouquet of flowers can cover over many - err - sins. Have you ever wondered what “love” really is? We can “love” so many things that really don’t love us back. For example, we could love our car (okay, maybe not), we could love an old pair of blue jeans, love hockey, our dog, or even love a favourite CD, etc. I picked up a flyer from a store recently that was advertising their Valentine’s Day specials. The ad said - “Love Is...Beautiful, Love Is...Glamorous, Love is...A Gift.” And then I thought – how profound. In our culture, to give a gift to someone - is still considered in some way - an act of love. Then I thought - how appropriate it is that Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this year.
The Bible, which has often been called God’s “Love Letter,” proclaims that “God is love.” That means that God’s character seen in and through His actions and eternal purposes in history, demonstrates His nature – love. All He does in our lives is filtered through His divine, sovereign fingers of love. So when we read the Bible – we are reminded of that – and in that way – it is a “love letter” to us. Do you remember your quirky, awkward adolescent days? Okay, for me, they are not that far removed. I can recall receiving a “love letter” from my very first – “girlfriend.” She was the older woman at 14. I was a dashing 13 year old – who possessed a voice that was changing so much that I could have easily passed for 15! There was just something about receiving a “love letter.” I don’t honestly remember what was written in it – but I do seem to recollect feeling “special” inside, even though we both knew – the whole thing was kind of silly and going nowhere fast. As a matter of fact we “broke things off” when she stole my favourite jacket, which got me in hot water with my momma! Look out!
Well – so much for meandering down memory lane. Besides, the best love letters are the ones that you can see written on the heart and face of a loved one –who has come to have a special place in our hearts. The people who love us the most, it is often said, love us - “as we are.” You may have a face that “only a mother could love,” yet I am here to tell you that only God can love us – as we need to be loved. I leave you with some proof. The following is taken from the content of the “Father’s Love Letter” by Barry Adams. I warn you – what you are about to read is extremely provocative. You may be lead to love God back!

“I am your Father and I love you even as I love my Son, Jesus...For in Jesus my love for you is revealed...He is the exact representation of my being...And He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you...And to tell you that I am not counting your sins...Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled...His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you...I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love...If you receive the gift of my Son Jesus, you receive me...And nothing will ever separate you from my love again...Come home and I’ll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen...I have always been the Father...My question is...Will you
be my child?...I am waiting for you.”

Taken from: John 17: 23, 26, Hebrews 1: 3, Romans 8: 31, 2 Cor. 5: 18-19, 1 John 4: 10, Romans 8: 32, 1 John 2: 23, Romans 8: 38-39, Luke 15: 7, Ephesians 3: 14-15, John 1: 12-13, Luke 15: 11-32

This Valentine’s Day – though God has many things in His possession – He still may not possess something that only you have ----- love for Him. Will you give God a Valentine this year? Will you finally give Him your love?

A Message by Rev. Ron J. Mahler

A New Year's Message from Pastor Ron

“NOTHING NEW FOR NEW YEARS”
By Rev. Ron Mahler

Happy New Year! Sometimes, saying that - feels a bit like the Bill Murray experience in the movie “Ground Hog Day.” Every year we say the same thing and perhaps even go through the exact same motions and traditions leading up to the actual day. The thought of entering a “new” year is a special time for many people because it presents us with the sense that we are entering a time that carries with it, second chances and fresh starts – even if it is in an artificial kind of way. What I mean is that January 1st – as we all know, is simply the day after December 31st. All that is new about the day, really, is that it is a new 24 hour period – that has never come before. Most often we find that by the end of the first week of January, if not earlier, the “new” year is not as new or as happy as it was when it began. Call me a pessimist but I really don’t celebrate or observe “new years” in a completely positive fashion, for one never knows what this “new year” may bring?? Like me, you may even share the sentiment that resolutions are overrated. Just like records, they’re often made – and often, broken. After all, we don’t need to wait until January 1st to resolve to lose some weight, to spend less (yeah – like that’s going to happen), or to pray more – unless of course – it is to our advantage to put off doing something we should already be doing! Some favourite sayings I have come across, go like: “My New Year’s resolution is to resolve to have none! No resolution? No problem!” Ah - yes! Perfect! However, one could carry these free-spirited sayings too far in life I suppose. There is the argument that if we venture nothing – nothing is gained.

For sure, though, the afore-mentioned sayings could be classified as the antithesis of a life lived by faith in Christ. Jesus came to resolve an age-old, spiritual condition and propensity that human beings have - in terms of how they act, and, relate to God. We’re not “born to be wild” as the song goes, we’re all born to be “bad,” in that we are all born with a habit that has infiltrated our nature – and it is “sinful.” But wait – there is good news: the Bible says “For God so loved the world that He sent His only Son...” (John 3:16) This was the best resolution ever made - and we earthlings can’t take the credit for it either! God resolved not to leave us in our sinful state, but to send us Jesus in order that we could know the mercy, grace and love of God – especially, His forgiveness of our sin. Now in saying this, I want to tell you that I believe there is absolutely nothing profoundly new - in terms of our human condition and the affairs of the world in which we live. There may be more children fed in needy countries this year, there may be a cure on the horizon this year for some physical condition, and we may even find new ways to create renewable energy in 2010, and yet - nothing is new in principle – when it comes to the state of the world, and the on-going events of our time. For every advance we make in life, there are devastating setbacks to counter it. We live in such a desensitised culture, that even if new flashes of terror, scandal, corruption, even passing stories of good deeds and heroes - were to arise in 2010 – they would all remain things we are familiar with – it’s only the names and circumstances that change. There may be “nothing new under the sun” as Solomon wrote - as we face yet another year, but what can be “new” – is how we view and sift through - all that will come at us as people. God “sent His Son” (Jesus) to the world because He loves us (His crown of creation) and wants to gather us as His own. Will we reach out to Him this year by putting our faith in His Son - and allow our lives to be lived by trusting in our Heavenly Father and Creator, and by letting the values of His Word be the anchor and standard for our lives and families? Will we (dare I say) make a resolution to not live this year, as in years past – without a Saviour, without true hope in the world, and without a sense of certainty for the future, even eternity? Only you can answer this. The world may present us with ever-increasing challenges and its share of yearly chicanery – but God holds the answers to them all. He has always loved us and always will – and in that sense, too, there is nothing new. The Bible says Jesus is “the same yesterday, today and forever.” Our levels of happiness may fluctuate this new year – but what will not, is God’s feelings towards us – and His promise that we can have hope, meaning, peace, as well as eternal security, even in the midst of the hard times! But really: have a Happy New Year!