July 2009

Watching the news hasn’t been a lot of fun these past few weeks. On the international scene the chaos and bloodshed in Iran is certainly heartbreaking and frightening. And the saber rattling of the North Koreans has Americans in our 50th state wondering if they will see another Pearl Harbor. On the national front the polarization of conservatives and liberals seems to be growing wider, as legislation and court orders keep changing in regards to a whole host of issues. Mistrust is growing. Many executives at financial corporations bailed out by the federal government have just decided to increase their salaries by 50% to make up for the bonuses they are not allowed to take. To quote Brian Williams, “They just don’t get it.” While some pundits are trying to put a positive spin on the economy, men and women are still losing jobs, especially here in west Michigan. That all doesn’t even take into account all the individual lives that are being impacted by illness, troubles in their homes, and the daily struggles of life. Times are tough and it can be discouraging.

What are we to make of all this? Are you living in fear of what the future may hold? Do you find it difficult to just get through the day? You are not alone. The prophet Jeremiah lived during a time of great upheaval for the people of Judah. In fact, their nation crumbled and the people found themselves taken captive by the powerful Babylonians. Things couldn’t have been worse for the nation. And on top of all that, Jeremiah, the spokesman for God, was personally attacked and hated for simply telling the people the truth. It is no wonder that Jeremiah was called the weeping prophet.

But Jeremiah knew the Scriptures and he knew the God of the Scriptures. That is why he could say, just as the psalmist had, “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD” (Jeremiah 17:7). This word “blessed” speaks of one who is “filled with God-defined benefits. Only trust in God motivates confident obedience in times of crisis.”

I don’t know all that you are personally facing today, but I do know that God is faithful and our call is to steadfastly obey Him and honor Him. Nations will rise and fall. Laws will be passed and change. Even our health and homes may be lost to the flames, but you will be blessed if you put your full trust in the One who is the Beginning and the End. His faithfulness is assured. For that, we can continually praise and thank Him!

Trusting our Faithful God with you,

Pastor Lew

June 2009

This past month I passed a particular “milestone” birthday. I know it’s not really “old” but I can now be an official, card-carrying member of the AARP. I well remember my thoughts when my mother reached her 50th birthday. I was overwhelmed by the reality that she had lived for a half a century. Half a century! That means she was around in the “olden days!”

Now that I’ve seen five decades go behind me, I have thought more about the future. What do I have to look forward to? Does life go downhill from here? I know that many of you look at my age and think, “You haven’t seen anything yet, kid!” Well, I agree. None of us knows what our future days on earth will hold, but I do know that there is a great promise in Scripture that we can cling to, “So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come (Psalm 71:18).

I just finished reading a remarkable little book edited by John Piper and Justin Taylor entitled, Stand: A Call for the Endurance of the Saints. The five contributors to this book each tell their story and help shape a biblical understanding of what it means to “finish well.”

In his contribution, Piper plainly states
Getting old to the glory of God means resolutely resisting the typical American dream of retirement. It means being so satisfied with all that God promises to be for us in Christ that we are set free from the cravings that create so much emptiness and uselessness in retirement. Instead, knowing that we have an infinitely satisfying and everlasting inheritance in God just over the horizon of life makes us zealous in our few remaining years here to spend ourselves in the sacrifices of love, not the accumulation of comforts. (Stand: A Call for the Endurance of the Saints, John Piper & Justin Taylor, General Editors, Crossway Books, pg. 37).

I would like to recommend this book and its message to every follower of Jesus Christ. Whether you are 18 or 88, this book has a message we all need to hear and to heed. It’s my prayer that the church family at Lakeside would continue to “fight the good fight” and “endure to the end.” Until the day that the Lord calls us to be with him, we are to be soldiers on active duty. There is no retirement on this earth for the Lord’s soldiers.

Fighting the good fight with you,

Pastor Lew

May 2009

A couple of weeks ago my wife and I attended a concert at Calvin College featuring Japanese organist Masaaki Suzuki. Suzuki is considered one of a handful of specialists in the music of Johann Sebastian Bach. I was eagerly anticipating this concert, not only to hear a master play the music of a master, but also because Suzuki has been faithful in bringing the music of Bach to the people of Japan as a way of introducing them to the God of Scripture. To say the least, the concert certainly resonated with the full house at the Calvin Chapel. The music was at times tender, often powerful, well articulated and deeply personal. I left the concert fulfilled, my heart overflowing with joy and wonder at the unique gift of God – music and the ability to have it played so brilliantly.

A week later Elissa and I attended the Converge Michigan conference in Lansing. We heard a full concert by theologian, composer, and artist, Michael Card. Michael performed his own compositions. All were simply sung, accompanied by either piano, guitar and in one instance, banjo. His folk style was laid back, informal, and personal. He often had the audience/worshipers join in singing with him.

Two very different concerts. Two very different styles of music and artistry. Yet both were music written and played or sung for God’s glory. Bach’s written musical scores often had these words written at the top of the first page: “Jesus Help Me.” Bach understood that he needed the Lord to guide him in writing his music. He also wrote three words at the end of his compositions: “Soli Deo Gloria” which means “to the glory of God alone.” Card’s music came out of deep study of God’s Word, trying to bring fresh understanding to those who heard and sung it. Two different styles of music and artistry. Yet both written, played, and sung for God’s glory.

Taste is a very personal thing. Whether it be in food, clothing, or music. People in the late 1600’s worshiped the same God we do today in 2009. Musical and performance styles may change. Culture changes whether by time or location or ethnic backgrounds. Yet, we should embrace them all, even when it’s not our favorite, because we need to understand that style and form, in and of itself is not right or wrong. It’s why we do what we do that counts. God is not pleased with only Bach or only Card. God is not worshiped by only hymns or only praise choruses.

One of the fatal mistakes we make about worship is equating worship with our feelings. Worship is not what we get . . . it’s what we give. Listen to this quote from J.D. Walt regarding taste and worship:
“Too often we don’t construct worship ‘for God’ but for individuated consumers who come for an experience of God. This is how we manage to endlessly fight over worship. For those coming to be fed, taste is a never-ending battle.” (J. D. Walt, “It’s All About Who? Part Two” http://www.christianitytoday.com/leaders/newsletter/2004/cln40913.html)
God is worshiped by a broken spirit and a broken and contrite heart (Psalm 51:17). So make room in your heart for your brother or sister’s worship language. Even when we sing a song that’s not one of your favorites, remember, it may be a deep expression of praise for someone else. Rejoice in the diversity we have in the body of Christ. Rejoice in the fact that whether we sing “How Great Thou Art” or “How Great Is Our God” both songs speak of Him who is worthy to be praised. Let’s keep our focus on God. After all, it’s all about Him.

Worshiping the Lord with you,

Pastor Lew

April 2009

I believe that the second most stupendous words spoken by an angel were these, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10 – 11). I believe that the absolutely most incredible words spoken by an angel were these, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. HE HAS RISEN; HE IS NOT HERE!” (Mark 16:6).

The first message proclaimed that the Savior was born. The second message said that the Messiah had completed his saving act by dying and rising again. The first message changed the world. The second message changed hearts. The first message brought a promise. The second message fulfilled that promise.

I trust that the message “He has risen!” resonates in your heart and gives you real hope, especially during these tough economic times. Christ’s victory came through agonizing pain and the weight of my sin and yours. Yet he endured it for “the joy that was set before him . . . despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2).

Easter is not just about baby chicks and bunnies. It is about power, and hope, and life. Take time during this holy season to reflect on the great cost of your salvation. Spend time giving thanks to God for his indescribable gift. And then marvel at the reality of life everlasting because of our Lord’s resurrection from the dead. It puts everything in perspective.

“For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38 – 39).

May the blessings of the Risen Lord be with you!

Pastor Leslie

March 2009

It won’t be too long and “March Madness” will be upon us. If you’re not a college basketball fan, “March Madness” is the term used for the NCAA basketball tournament when sixty-four teams from around the nation are chosen and then play to see which team survives as the eventual national champion. It’s a basketball lover’s dream, and a lonely time for spouses who may not share that same passion.

There’s something unique about “March Madness”. Talk around the water coolers are occupied with it. Friends become foes depending on what team you are rooting for, Evenings and weekends are spent with eyes glued to televisions, either at home or a favorite food establishment. Glory be to the basketball gods! Wait a minute . . . did I really say that? That’s how it seems to appear to me. The hype is like a month long Super Bowl. Talk about passion! Talk about commitment to an event!

I’m quietly reminded by Scripture that it is easy to let any thing, any person, any event take preeminence in my life. But the reality is; only One is Supreme – God and He is to be continually preeminent in our lives. I’ll admit that it’s easy to give lip service to that belief, but when other events or things come into my life that I’m passionate about, I find that I usually show more passion for those temporal things than I do for God. What would happen if I talked as much about God, and with as much excitement as I do a basketball game? It’s so easy to let our little “gods” become our big “Gods” while letting the true big God, become little in our lives.

So what’s the antidote? I think we need to preach to ourselves on a daily basis what is taught in Scripture, “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV). I believe we need to saturate our hearts and minds with thoughts of the greatness and beauty of our God, of His magnificent love shown to us through Jesus Christ who should be our greatest Treasure.

What would it look like if we gathered on Sunday and sang songs of praise as loudly as we could? If we shouted praises to God as a congregation? If we showed forth with passion what Jesus Christ means to us in our praise? It’s been well said, “Those who cheer loudly at a game are called ‘fans’; those who talk a lot about Jesus Christ are called ‘fanatics’”. I don’t know about you, but I think it’s high time we show where our allegiance really is . . . let’s be passionate about praising the Lord!

Praising Him with you,

Pastor Leslie

February 2009

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things (1 Corinthians 13:4 – 7 ESV).

February is often called the “love” month because Valentine’s Day falls right in the middle of it. I’m kind of glad it’s there, too. February on the west side of the State of Michigan is certainly not the most blissful time of year. In fact, to take the words of the Apostle Paul, this is the time of year that makes me feel like I have to “endure all things!”

So, it’s nice to have a reason to celebrate. Love is a great thing. For those of us who are a part of God’s forever family understand (though imperfectly) the incredible love that He has for us in Christ Jesus. It’s a love worth celebrating. As we look at Christ, we see what love really looks like and we are to imitate Him, too. I’m thankful for the various expressions of love that God has given us. Each in its own way lets us see God’s love, even in little ways. For example, the love of a parent for their child; the close friendship with someone who accepts you, warts and all; these are just a couple examples of human love that reflect God’s relationship to us. Probably the most beautiful picture of God’s love for us is seen in the marriage relationship. The Scripture tells us that Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish (Ephesians 5:25 – 27 ESV).

I’ve learned more about God’s love through my relationship with my wife than anywhere else. No one else knows me like Elissa does. And in our relationship she truly bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. This February is special for us, not just because love is celebrated on Valentine’s Day. February 25 marks our twenty-fifth anniversary. I know to some that is just a speck sand of in the hourglass of time. I’m grateful for those whom I see married fifty, sixty and even seventy years – and I am encouraged and amazed. But I’m personally more amazed that this wonderful woman I met when I was young and immature (as opposed to now being older and immature) chose to commit herself to me and our life together. Her fierce faithfulness, even through the most difficult of times teaches me how I need to trust God and remain faithful to Him, even when circumstances are tough. Elissa has taught me tenderness and putting others first as she has continually exemplified in her life.

Yeah, I know, this is all kind of personal, gushy, mushy stuff. But I couldn’t let this milestone in my life be kept to myself. So, Elissa, I love you and am so grateful to God that He placed you in my life. You are the great source of strength that points me to The Great Source of Strength in all that you do and all who you are.

And to my Lakeside Family, I trust that I can be an example of God’s love in your life as well!

With a Pastor’s Love,
Pastor Leslie

January 2009

Entering a new year is usually the time that we think of change. There are habits I want to change. I want to change the way I look. I make resolutions to change in 2009. New Year – New Me. Except that I’m still the same person I was at 11:59 p.m., December 31, 2008.

How can I really change? I know I don’t have the “stick-tuitiveness” to remake myself in 365 days, let alone in only one. I’m reminded from God’s Word that the only way to really change is through Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. 2 Corinthians 5:17, a verse we all know by heart says it well, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold the new has come.” What great news for those of us who want to change! In Christ Jesus, I already have changed! And as the Spirit of God works in my life, day by day, I continue to grow in the conformity and image of Christ. This is absolutely the best news anyone can receive.

Whatever you and I may face in the coming year, God is doing his work, giving us daily new blessings. Even in the greatest times of trial, we are promised God’s grace. While the nation of Judah was in her darkest hour, captive to the Babylonian king, removed from their homeland and crying out to God, they were reminded by the prophet “The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22 – 23).

So don’t worry about resolutions. Don’t sweat over re-making yourself. Let God do it. Yes, you need to submit yourself to him and allow him to do his work in you, but let him do it. Count on his mercies to make you new. Trust in the work of Christ to be a new creation. Rely on the Holy Spirit’s guidance to become more and more like Jesus every day. Talk about change. You’ll never be the same again!

Seeking to be more like Jesus,

Pastor Leslie