Leslie Lew

December 2009

2009-11-26T20:14:00.000-05:00

Prophecy: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14)

Fulfillment: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel (which means, God with us).” (Matthew 1:23)

If you were to look in our hymnal today, you would find this song found among the pages: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel. What makes this song so unique in our evangelical hymnal is the fact that this song is actually a Plainsong/chant dating back to around the 13th century. This song which is a major part of our Advent preparations for the coming of Christmas has been sung by believers since the 1200’s! The text was originally written and sung in Latin (Veni Emmanuel) (“Come God With Us”).

This song brings with it the same sense of longing and hope that the prophets of the ancient Jewish people expressed for the coming of a Messiah. As we sing it, you can almost feel the same pull at the heart for the need for God to visit us, as He did wrapped in human flesh in the baby Jesus.

What is so marvelous about this very ancient song is that it is full of the many titles ascribed to the Messiah in the Hebrew Scriptures. We only have four verses found in our hymnal, but originally there were many more of these “verses” or “antiphons” that came before the last refrain. He is called Emmanuel (Isaiah 7:14), Lord of Might (Exodus 19:16), Rod of Jesse (Isaiah 11:1), Day Spring (Luke 1:78b – 79a), and Key of David (Isaiah 22:22, Isaiah 9:6).

There is so much hope in this ancient hymn, preparing us for Christ’s first coming and our celebration of Christmas – and His second coming – when He will return to reign and rule at His rightful place on David’s Throne.

May the Messiah of Christmas bring you hope as we wait for His return.

Pastor Leslie

November 2009

2009-10-29T15:26:00.002-04:00

26 And he said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground. 27 He sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how. 28 The earth produces by itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. 29 But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.”
(Mark 4:26 – 29) ESV

It’s really sad that we don’t sing songs of Thanksgiving as often as we should. As Christians we should be singing songs of thanksgiving to the Lord every day, not just around our nation’s celebration of Thanksgiving Day. But I am grateful that in our nation, we set aside a special time for the sole purpose of giving thanks to the Lord of the harvest for all His goodness to us as a nation.

The songs we traditionally think of as “Thanksgiving Songs” are really some of the most powerful images of God’s love for His people. One of my favorites is the old hymn, Come, ye thankful people, come. Written by Henry Alford (1810-1871), this hymn was originally found in Psalms and Hymns (1844).

The title suggests Thanksgiving, but this harvest time is about the final judgment when the good grain will be garnered and the tares thrown into the fire. It is based on Mark 4:26 – 29 and Matthew 13:36 – 43. We thank God for this year’s harvest and the abundance of food and other good things the Lord has blessed us with. But Thanksgiving, as this song reminds us, is a time to reflect on our own lives and pray that we will be wholesome and pure grain at the Final Harvest.

1. Come, ye thankful people, come,
raise the song of harvest home;
all is safely gathered in,
ere the winter storms begin.
God our Maker doth provide
for our wants to be supplied;
come to God's own temple, come,
raise the song of harvest home.

2. All the world is God's own field,
fruit as praise to God we yield;
wheat and tares together sown
are to joy or sorrow grown;
first the blade and then the ear,
then the full corn shall appear;
Lord of harvest, grant that we
wholesome grain and pure may

3. For the Lord our God shall come,
and shall take the harvest home;
from the field shall in that day
all offenses purge away,
giving angels charge at last
in the fire the tares to cast;
but the fruitful ears to store
in the garner evermore.

4. Even so, Lord, quickly come,
bring thy final harvest home;
gather thou thy people in,
free from sorrow, free from sin,
there, forever purified,
in thy presence to abide;
come, with all thine angels, come,
raise the glorious harvest home.

I pray that you will join me in praising and thanking the Lord for His goodness, and also seeking His face and spending time in His Word, to test and try our own souls. Are you ready for the final harvest?

With a heart full of thankfulness,
Pastor Lew

October 2009

2009-09-24T15:40:00.000-04:00

This month, two very special events will be taking place for the Lakeside Baptist Church family. On Sunday, October 25th we will be holding our Fall Ingathering. This year’s Ingathering Offering will be designated for resurfacing our parking lot. It’s a big job, but it is one that needs to be done. Everyone in the church will benefit from the completion of this project. Please prayerfully consider what part you can do to make this Ingathering Offering a success.

This October’s dinner will be a potluck. The Deacon’s are asking every family to supply a main dish and either a salad/vegetable/side dish or a dessert. The Deacon’s will supply beverages for the meal.

Immediately after our Ingathering meal, the children will be dismissed for child care while our members gather for our Quarterly Business Meeting. This meeting is particularly important because the Constitution Committee will be presenting a motion to place the new constitution on the January ballot for a vote of affirmation. Copies of the updated constitution will be made available throughout the month of October.

As in the past, if you wish to express and ideas or concerns about the proposed constitution as presented, the Constitution Committee asks that you present your questions or ideas in writing so that there is no misunderstanding in what you are suggesting.

This business meeting is very important in that we are dealing with an issue that directly affects the governmental policies of Lakeside Baptist Church. The Constitution Committee has worked long and hard to be sure that the document they present is firmly based on biblical principles of church leadership and does not try to say more than necessary. It focuses on our articles of faith and a church covenant which speaks of our mutual commitment to each other in the Lord.

I anticipate October 25th to be a great day of rejoicing in our church’s life. Let’s serve our Faithful, Supreme, and Gracious Lord together throughout the month of October!

Seeking to Treasure Christ more and more with you,

Pastor Lew

September 2009

2009-08-27T20:10:00.000-04:00

I’ve been enjoying watching the Detroit Tigers play baseball this past month, when all of a sudden I started seeing commercials for the upcoming football season. Summer is surely swiftly passing us by and a busy fall season is quickly approaching.

An important issue for our church this October will be our deciding on placing the proposed constitution on the January ballot to be voted as our governing document. The constitution committee, which is made up of congregationally elected representatives from every board and at-large members has been diligently working on this important text over the past many months, studying Scriptures as well as various constitutions from other Baptist churches that have an elder led congregational system. I’ve been very proud of the work our committee has done, not only because of the time they have given, but also the spirit with which they have worked. Each meeting has been filled with discussion, prayer, and consensus on what a new constitution should look like.

It is important for every member of Lakeside to remember that ultimately the constitution is placed in the hands of the membership to be approved, edited, or disapproved. To help answer any questions about the proposed constitution, the process in coming to it and the plans for implementing it, the committee will be holding a “Town Hall” meeting on Sunday, September 13th at 7:00 p.m. We want to be sure that everyone has the opportunity to understand the language and tenor of the proposed constitution before it is placed before you for a vote.

Lakeside Baptist Church has 128 years of rich heritage which we honor and celebrate. But we also must look toward the future and how we can best minister in the neighborhood where God has placed us. I believe that we can best serve the Lord by honoring our past while focusing our ministry for the future. Please make every effort to come out on September 13th so your voice can be heard and also gain a clearer understanding of what this new constitution would bring to our church government and ministry outreach. Join me in prayer as we seek to serve and honor the Lord in all that we do at Lakeside.

Seeking the Lord’s will with you,

Pastor Lew

August 2009

2009-07-30T20:40:00.000-04:00

As many of you know, I spent some quality time in the hospital this past month. Battling pneumonia is never pleasurable, and even though I was in the right place to be helped, it was far from a comfortable experience. To be sure, the doctors, nurses, and the entire staff were wonderful and did everything they could to help me through the healing process. But it still was no vacation. It was not a time of rest. I remember as I fought for each breath, and all the labor it took to inhale and exhale; not getting enough oxygen in my system; that feeling of everything closing in on me as I struggled to breathe.

I thought God was supposed to make me feel better! How could I serve Him if I’m laid up in a hospital bed feeling just miserable, thank you? God uses times like this in our lives to make Himself known to us. I remember one evening as I lay there hot, unable to sleep, and unable to get a deep breath into my lungs, God talked to me. I mean, I didn’t audibly hear His voice, but He spoke just the same. The question that kept going through my head went something like this: “What means more to you, Me, or My healing you? What do you treasure more, your health or God?” I came to the tearful conclusion that God had to mean more to me than my health. If God chose to keep me ill for the rest of my days on earth, does that mean I should give up on God? Or do I only want God to give me “stuff” including health, to make me happy.

Anything and I mean anything that we put before God is idolatry. Even the good stuff God gives us can easily become an idol. What means more to you than anything? Your kids? Your spouse? Your career? Your home? Your computer? Your Face Book friends? Your health? Your traveling? What else? You can fill in the blank. If I’m not willing to sacrifice any of these for the glory of God, I’m an idolater. And so are you.

I’m reminded about Abraham’s faithful commitment to God when he willingly brought his son, whom he loved, Isaac to Mt. Moriah to be sacrificed. Are you and I willing to do that? Are we raising our children so that they will have successful careers or are we encouraging them to be completely, one-hundred per cent sold out to God? How can we if we truly aren’t making Christ our supreme Treasure, worth more than anything else we may possess?

Just some thoughts from a hospital bed.

Seeking to honor Christ with you,

Pastor Leslie

July 2009

2009-06-25T14:51:00.000-04:00

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

2009-05-28T16:00:00.000-04:00

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

2009-05-05T07:55:00.000-04:00

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

2009-03-27T08:37:00.000-04:00

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

2009-03-02T18:00:00.001-05:00

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

2009-01-29T16:14:00.001-05:00

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

2008-12-27T10:31:00.000-05:00

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

DECEMBER 2008

2008-11-29T10:30:00.000-05:00

I love the music of Christmas! I am aware that that is a joy shared by many people. I’m one of those who likes to listen to Christmas music in the middle of summer and plans what I’ll listen to each day as we approach and then enter into the holiday season. I must admit, that my musical tastes are very eclectic. A fair amount of my Christmas CD collection includes recordings of from the 13th through the 17th centuries, but you’ll also hear Bing Crosby, Al Jarreau, and Barry Manilow singing familiar favorites of the season.

What is it that makes Christmas music so special? Is it hearing the sounds of familiar songs that evoke images in our mind’s eye of Christmases past? Is it the fact that so much music of Christmas is beautifully written and interpreted in so many ways that everyone can connect to some aspect of this season of joy?

Perhaps the main reason that Christmas music is so enjoyed is that God has made us to sing! The story of God coming to earth wrapped in human flesh is so rich and full of meaning that words alone can’t portray all the depth of emotion and wonder of God’s love. Music helps make the story personal.

Certain carols remind me of the mystery of the Incarnation and cause me to pause in awe and wonder when I reflect on the greatness of God and His incredible love. Other songs make me want to celebrate, just like the angels did when they sang on that first Christmas night, “glory to God in the highest!” Still other Christmas songs pull me back to my childhood and youth, and bring back memories of time with family members, now celebrating Christmas in heaven.

Let me encourage you to fill your home and heart with the sounds of Christmas this year. Don’t cry “Humbug!” when you hear the familiar songs of the season in the mall or on the radio 24/7. Embrace it. Enjoy it! Sing a new song to the Lord every day and thank Him for His inexpressible gift! (2 Corinthians 9:15)

Pastor Leslie

NOVEMBER 2008

2008-11-01T11:56:00.000-04:00

What shall I render to the LORD for all his benefits to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the LORD (Psalm 116:12 – 13 ESV).

I love November especially as we draw near to Thanksgiving. What a marvelous season to celebrate! I know that Thanksgiving brings with it the expectation of Christmas and all the joy and wonder of that season, but, Thanksgiving stands uniquely apart as a day for our nation to step back and ponder all that God has done for us.

As Christians, we should have a richer, deeper desire to express gratitude to our benevolent, merciful, abundantly giving, lavishly loving God. Not only has God given us all we need to sustain us upon this earth he created, but he has also given us the gift of his salvation and all that that encompasses, past, present, and future. You may remember the opening line of a well-known Andre’ Crouch song, “How can I say thanks, for the things you have done for me?” That is the question has often come to my heart and mind when I ponder all God’s riches poured out in my life.

In particular, I remember thinking of the great debt of gratitude that I felt I owed the LORD after I faced my own battle with cancer back in 1995-6. As I was completing my final rounds of chemotherapy, and thought back through the year of pain, difficulty, personal loss with my mother’s death, I was actually amazed at how gracious God was in carrying me through it, and now strengthening me for the future. How could I thank him? How could I repay him? I couldn’t. I realized that there was absolutely no way for me to humanly pay back this debt I owed. During those final weeks of treatment and in the weeks following, I picked up a book that changed my entire perspective on my situation, and even more so, on God’s expectations from me.

John Piper’s book, Future Grace (Multnomah Books, Sisters, Oregon. © 1995) brought me to the answer of my quest of how do I pay back God for his grace in my life. Piper puts it this way: “Gratitude for bygone grace is constantly saying to faith, ‘Be strong, and do not doubt that God will be as gracious in the future as I know he’s been in the past.’ And faith in future grace is constantly saying to gratitude, ‘There is more grace to come, and all our obedience is to be done in reliance on future grace. Relax and exult in your appointed feast. I will take responsibility for tomorrow’s obedience.’” (p. 49).

What I learned was that the only way I can truly show God how grateful I am for what he has done for me it to continually trust him for what he will do tomorrow. And the day after. And the day after that. As the psalmist says “I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the LORD.” I will trust him. God was faithful in the past. He will be faithful in the future. I will trust him. That’s the best way to say “Thank you” to the LORD. Trust him. He’s been faithful to you in all things in the past. Trust him for each and every moment of your life as you live it. That’s living in future grace. That’s being grateful.

Grateful to God and trusting Him for future grace,
Pastor Leslie

October 2008

2008-09-26T20:26:00.000-04:00

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control (2 Timothy 1:7)

The news lately has been bad. The U.S. economy is in a tailspin, unemployment is up, gas prices are forcing people to rethink their driving habits and world leaders are rattling their sabers at the thought of the United States of America losing some of her swagger. On top of all that, parts of our nation have been hit by devastating flooding hurricanes, while other areas have been facing terrible drought.

No doubt about it, there’s a lot of issues causing people to be afraid. Afraid for the economy. Afraid of losing their job. Afraid of losing their home. Afraid of the future in general. But there is an even greater enemy that we face, and whenever Satan attacks one of God’s children, he often does it through fear.

I think back to the biblical account of David and Goliath as an example. Goliath was formidable in size and certainly boastful about his abilities against the army of Israel. Saul didn’t have the courage to confront Goliath. He was afraid and fear paralyzes and torments the soul. That’s why Saul couldn’t confront his enemy. But although he was just a lad, the Lord’s anointing was upon David. He didn’t allow Goliath’s size and taunts to paralyze him with fear. No, David saw Goliath through God’s eyes and saw him as just a bothersome flea trying to get in the way of God’s work. David was righteously indignant at the taunts of the giant against the army of the Living God.

David didn’t consider failure an option because he placed his faith in El Shaddai, the Mighty God of Israel. So too, when we face the fears around us, let us remember that God is truly in charge of it all. We can stand firm in God’s power to overcome whatever may come our way.

Take heart. Don’t fear when sudden calamity comes into your life, if you are truly walking with the Lord. What seems like a losing battle may end up being the stage for a great victory. And it will all be to the praise and glory of God alone! Yes, we face difficult times . . . sometimes on a national scale . . . other times in our own personal lives. But these times are but to learn over and over again not to fear but to put our hope in the Lord.

September 2008

2008-08-31T15:47:00.001-04:00

It’s time again for “readin’, writin’ and ‘rithmetic” according to the calendar on my desk. Summer is winding down and kids are longing to get back into the classroom and get to work. I think.

How about you? Do you enjoy expanding your mind and learning new things? Are you a “life-long” learner? You should be! Just as we want our children and grandchildren to learn and grow, so too, we as God’s children should continue to learn and grow. With the fall season upon us, I’d like to challenge you to take a couple of steps in your life-long learning journey.

First, if you do not currently attend a Christian Education class on Sunday mornings – begin this week! There are three different opportunities for adults at LBC to learn and grow in their faith. One of them is right for you. Second, become a well-rounded reader. I think that one of the greatest gifts God has given us is the ability to communicate truth and ideas on the written page. And be sure to read good literature. Reading from the hand of excellent authors can enrich the mind and stir the heart. After all, if God didn’t want us to read, He never would have revealed Himself through the written Word.

I could give you a long list of books that I’d love for you to read, but let me just recommend four books this month:

1. The Bible is of course first on the list. But take the time to read it and enjoy the variety of styles found in this collection of sixty-six books. You’ll find poetry, narrative, oratory, apocalyptic writing. There are love stories, mighty battles, wisdom, intrigue and suspense . . . all revealing God’s work among His people.

2. Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan is a classic devotional that takes you through the life of Christian, a follower of the King who makes his pilgrimage through life until he finally enters the Celestial City. This book should be read by every Christian.

3. Confessions by Augustine, is his testimony of faith. Another classic that deserves to be read and digested. Augustine exposes his sinful heart, not through murder or adultery, but by the simple act of taking fruit off the tree of a neighbor. Augustine’s understanding of the depravity of man and the absolute need of God’s complete work for our salvation is based on his thoughts and experiences found in the pages of this book.

4. The Brothers Karamazov, is the final novel of Russian author Dostoevsky. It is considered the crowning achievement of his life’s work. The story portrays a parricide in which each of the murdered man’s sons share a varying degree of complicity. It deals with the “spiritual drama of moral struggles concerning faith, doubt, reason, free will, and modern Russia.” This is a very thought provoking novel.

If you’re not already, become a reader. You’ll gain insights that will help you understand yourself, the world around you, and the God who created it all.

Pastor Lew

August 2008

2008-07-25T11:31:00.001-04:00

Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. Jeremiah 17:7
Sometimes God allows us to go through tests and trials that seem too difficult to endure. Listen to how the prophet Jeremiah describes a situation where trusting in human abilities, while tempting to do, is insufficient to our need.

Thus says the LORD: “Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD. 6 He is like a shrub in the desert, and shall not see any good come. He shall dwell in the parched places of the wilderness, in an uninhabited salt land. 7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. 8 He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.”

Jeremiah makes a clear contrast between the person who trusts in his own effort to solve problems and the person who trusts in God even when he cannot yet see how things will turn out. The child of God who trusts in Him will bear fruit despite the circumstances in his life. He does not shrivel when the heat comes; in fact, his roots go deeper into God's grace. He continues to bear fruit in spite of his circumstances.

I read an account of plant life in an arid, dry climate. The writer explained that “whenever a plant lives in an arid climate, the roots drive deeper and deeper into the soil to get the water they need. This forces the plant to develop a root system that is far beyond the normal plant because it is forced to go deeper to gain the water it needs.” This is just like our gracious God who sometimes forces us to go deeper into His grace so that our own foundation grows stronger. The lean, dry times of life are designed to accomplish this in us.

Are you in a desert place today? Do you feel dry and parched and need somewhere to turn? If that’s where you are today, ask God to provide you with water for your soul and an abiding trust in His plan. If you do, I’m confident that you will “not cease to bear fruit.”

Pastor

July 2008

2008-06-27T20:47:00.000-04:00

From the Pastor’s Desk

As Americans, we love the word “freedom.” It is the anchor of what our nation stands for and the rally cry of those defending our country. We cherish freedom as a God given right so much that it is written in our founding documents. These words from the Declaration of Independence are indelibly imprinted in the hearts and minds of every American:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,
that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights,
that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

As Christians, we love the word “freedom” too. The Apostle Paul reminded the Galatian believers that “For freedom Christ has set us free, stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery” (Galatians 5:1). Unfortunately, some of the followers of Jesus Christ in Galatia had been led astray by teachers who insisted on adherence to a legalistic system of religion as part of the requirement to be a Christian. Paul had to set the church straight by reminding them that insisting on any ritual or legal requirement added to grace, nullifies grace. In fact, it makes one a slave again!

Galatians, the Magna Carta of spiritual liberty has much to teach us today. While we certainly believe that we are saved by grace through faith, we can often find ourselves trying to add our own good works and rules of righteousness to earn “brownie points” with the Sovereign God of the universe. No deal. We must relearn the truth that everything we are and do is solely because of Christ; who He is and what He has done.

This month of July we will begin a new series on Sunday mornings taking us through the book of Galatians. We will learn from the Apostle Paul how to enjoy the freedom we have in Christ, and how to avoid becoming slaves to any system that relies on rules and regulations. So take time this July to enjoy your celebration of Independence Day, and take time to celebrate the freedom you have in Christ.

June 2008

2008-05-29T22:22:00.000-04:00

God has so graciously and lovingly protected and guided Lakeside Baptist Church through more than a century and a quarter of service. One of the easiest things to do when we look back and see the work that has been done through our church over the decades is to relax, enjoy what we have and stop looking forward. I’m reminded of the apostle Paul’s own testimony toward the end of his life. He could have said, “I’ve done my part, not it’s up to someone else to carry the torch.” Instead, he said that it was still his goal to be more like Christ. “But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal it to you” (Philippians 3:13 – 15).

A number of our church ministry leaders will be gathering together on June 7th for a planning retreat. Our goal is to thank God for what He has done in Lakeside Baptist Church and to seek His face for what He wants us to do as we “press on” to continue serving Him. We will be spending time in God’s Word to reflect on what a spiritually healthy church should look like. We will dream together of what God can do in our community if we faithfully bring to Gospel to our neighbors. Dr. Jim Lacey, the Interim District Executive Minister of the Michigan Baptist General Conference will be with joining us to share his insights and experiences in local church ministry.

My request is that every member and friend at LBC would pray for God’s leading and direction at this retreat. I believe that our church has a tremendous future and unlimited opportunity to bring glory, honor, and praise to our Savior in the years ahead. As you pray, ask God to make your own heart tender to His leading. Ask Him to put His will and His vision for Lakeside in your heart and the hearts of the leadership of the church. Pray, pray, pray. “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen” (Philippians 3:20 – 21).

May 2008

2008-04-27T13:56:00.001-04:00

Sometimes the needs around us seem too big to handle. I know that as I read emails from church members or our missionaries, I sense at times the desperation over difficulties facing individuals and families. And then as we read the news or listen to the pundits on TV, we hear of wars, rumors of war, global warming, poverty, economic collapse, and on top of all that, filling up your car with a tank of gas requires a second mortgage on your home. No doubt about it, times are tough. And here we are trying to live out the gospel and be salt and light in this troubled world.

Do you ever feel like it’s all too much to handle? Do you ask yourself, “Can one person really make a difference?” Do you feel like all that you try to do for the Lord is really insignificant when you look at the big picture? I know that it is easy to get discouraged while trying to remain faithful to the work God has called you to do. I want to encourage you, first, by saying that God is honored NOT by the results of our labors, but by our faithfulness to Him. That’s why Jesus said that “whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water, because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward” (Matthew 10:42 ESV).

Second, I want you to know that you are not alone. One of the greatest stories of one man’s passion and perseverance is that of William Wilberforce. He single handedly sought to end the British slave trade. It was his life cause and for decades he fought intense opposition. At times he almost gave up, but ultimately his faithfulness did pay off. I’d like to invite you to join us for a family night on Sunday, May 18 at 5:30 p.m. at LBC where we will view the magnificent film “Amazing Grace” showing us the life and legacy of William Wilberforce. I believe that you will be inspired by this film and this story. It is a great lesson for each of us to learn – be faithful to the Lord, even in the small things, even when it is hard. I believe you will find hope in Wilberforce’s story and renewed faith in God’s Word which says, “that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion on the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6 ESV).

Fighting the Good Fight with you,

Pastor Lew

April 2008

2008-03-29T14:06:00.000-04:00

I’ve been thinking about our scriptural mandate to love one another. We are commanded to bear with each other, even with our failings. We are called to “please his neighbor for his good, to build him up” (Romans 15:2). The example of Christ is to spur us on. “For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, ‘The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me’” (Romans 15:3). Sometimes it is hard to love others, especially when we feel that they are not particularly lovable. But again, Scripture reminds us that “while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son” (Romans 5:10). If God chose to love us, even when we were against him, how much more should we be able to bear with each other when we are brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus?

I want to encourage each of us to love one another, not just in thought, but in word and deed. Bear with one another, serve one another. This is one of the most significant ways we can show the world that Jesus Christ is real and makes all the difference in our lives. Serving one another as an expression of love brings glory and praise to our Heavenly Father. If that seems at times like a difficult task, take to heart the prayer of Paul who said, “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (Romans 15:5 – 7).

Following in the dust of the Rabbi,

Pastor Lew

March 2008

2008-02-27T17:13:00.000-05:00

This has been an incredibly long, hard winter. The groundhog has told us that we should expect at least a couple of more weeks of winter as we enter the month of March. This being Michigan, I believe that winter could still surprise us even in April. That being said, I am so grateful that spring is around the corner along with the hope and joy of Easter. The old saying is that “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.” Because of what Jesus has done for us with His sinless life, sacrificial death on the cross, and His being raised again from the dead, we can honestly say that “March (or the Season of the Cross)” comes in like a lamb (a sacrificial lamb) and when Jesus returns, He will come as a lion, the Lion of Judah, to rule and to reign in power.

I don’t know about you, but I’m truly grateful for the great gift of God which is centered on the cross and the risen Savior. Otherwise, as the apostle Paul has said, “And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. Then those who also have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people to be most pitied. But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead” (1 Corinthians 15:17 – 21 ESV).

I hope and pray that this entire season of the Cross and Resurrection Sunday will draw you closer to Him and cause greater love and wonder in your own heart as you reflect on the Savior.

Pastor's Notes - February 2008

2008-02-04T19:06:00.000-05:00

Here we are at the shortest month of the year. It's interesting how the shortest month of the year can often seem the longest to those of us living in Michigan! This month we will begin a sermon series on the attributes of God. I hope that you don't find the idea of this subject boring or to heavy. I believe that it is actually very practical. If we are going to love God and serve Him, we need to know Him. I'd like to quote a part of the introduction to a sermon given by the great C. C. Spurgeon back in 1855. I believe that he capsulated well the importance of studying about God.

There is something exceedly improving to the mind in a contemplation of the Divinity. It is a subject so vast, that all our thoughts are lost in its immensity; so deep that our pride is drowned in its infinity...No subject of contemplation will tend more to humble the mind, it also expands it. He, who often thinks of God, will have a larger mind than the man who simply plods around his narrow globe...The most excellent study for expanding the whole soul, is the science of Christ, and Him crucified, and the knowledge of the Godhead in the glorious Trinity. Nothing will so enlarge the intellect, nothing so magnify the whole soul of man, as devout, earnest, continued investigation of the great subject of Deity. And, whilst humbling and wxpanding, this subject is eminently consolatory. Oh, there is, in contemplating Christ, a balm for every wound; in musing on the Father, there is a quietus for every grief; and in the influnce of the Holy Ghost, there is a blasam for every sore. Would you lose your sorrow? Would you drown your cares? Then go plunge yourself in the Godhead's deepest sea; be lost in His immensity; and you shall come forth as from a couch of rest, refreshed and invigorated. I know of nothing which can so comfort the soul; so calm the swelling billows of sorrow and grief; so speak peace to the winds of trial, as a devout musing upon the subject of the Godhead. It is to that subject I invite you..

(quoted in J. I. Packer, Knowing God, Intervarsity Press: Downers Grove, Illinois, 1973)

I Look forward to searching God's Word to get to know Him better. I hope you are looking forward to that as well.