I am the Resurrection

Posted on by Bruce Sims

Cafe Church Leeds

stations of resurrection

Lots of us are familiar with the idea of the Stations of the Cross and using them to help us reflect upon Jesus’ passion. We worked with a similar idea but instead focused on the Resurrection as we continued our exploration of Jesus ‘I am’ sayings.

The evening started as always with coffee and cake and general catching up with each other before the evening was introduced. We were given the story of Jesus and Lazarus to read and then instructions for the evening.

resurrection

Around the chapel were 14 stations. Each one had a Bible passage that led us from the discovery of the empty tomb through to the ascension. Along with the Bible passage were some of Si Smith‘s excellent illustrations from his ‘Raised in Leeds’ series (you can see the images set to music here, or order a set from proost). Each station also had…

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VICTORY THROUGH THE FIRE

Posted on by Bruce Sims

Her Strength

As I wrote this title, I can’t help but reflect on the three Hebrews boys who were thrown into Fire, and came out un-burned. It’s a miracle! What a God! Who is that Mighty God?! It’s the same God yesterday, today and forevermore. THE I AM THAT I AM, THE PRINCE OF PEACE, THE ONE AND ONLY TRUE LIVING GOD. He is never slack concerning His promises and honors His Words at all times. 

St. John 16:33 reminds us what Jesus said, 

“These things have I spoken unto you, so that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

Yes, we have accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior. Yes, we have to take up our cross and follow Him. Yes, we will have tribulation in this world. Yes, sometimes we wish we didn’t have…

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Jumping & trusting

Posted on by Bruce Sims

Laus Deo Ministries Int.

Leap of faith via Pinterest.com

Often, we think that only great faith gets things done. Only great faith, like that of Paul; the Apostle, or even the great generals of God’s army (Wigglesworth, John G. Lake etc.) are what will work to accomplish results. However, Jesus said that a mustard seed of faith is all that is needed (Matthew 17:20).

A mustard seed is so tiny, yet it brings forth a giant tree.

All that God requires of us is a tiny bit of faith. We have to grow our faith in Him and His written Word, but simply a little bit of faith…

And for those who say: “But I can’t see God. How must I trust?” Imagine for a moment that the building you are in is on fire. Blazing flames. Smoke. Sure death is starring you in the face. You have two choices: you can stay and…

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There is a God…

Posted on by Bruce Sims

Allie's Way

Without Excuse

Having the opportunity to see different places in this great country, I know there is a God (The World Around Me).  How can anyone see majestic mountains and crashing waves and not know there is a creator.  Romans 1:20 reminds me, “For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.”  I am without excuse to know his name!  God has left his Word for us in all that he has created here on Earth so that all would know His Name and His Glory.

Traveling North

My husband and I are once again moving our daughter.  As we traveled North to Syracuse, New York,  we spend the entire day with a view of majestic mountains and beautiful valleys.  Moving through CNY (Central New York), I was amazed…

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The Results of a Godless Plan

Posted on by Bruce Sims

Lighthouse Devotions by JR

Located on the seashores of Amchit, Lebanon, is the Babel Bahr Lighthouse (pictured above). It points to one of the most renowned Lebanese restaurants in the Mediterranean. The lighthouse has a fully functional rotating light fixture, but it does not serve as an actual navigational aid because the area does not accommodate a deck for ships. It was built exclusively as part of the restaurant’s design. You might say that it is technically the welcoming door to fine cuisine and luxurious dining.

Although Babel Bahr means “door to the sea” in Arabic, the Lighthouse of Babel Bahr reminds me of the Tower of Babel. Babel, from the Hebrew word balal, meaning to jumble or to confuse, was the name given by God to a Babylonian city where the descendants of Noah had settled. Many of you may be familiar with the story, but for those who aren’t here is a short…

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I’ve always struggled with acceptance……

Posted on by Bruce Sims

Booknvolume

I’ve always struggled with acceptance.  I’m afraid I always will.  I think one of the greatest fears humans experience is the fear and painful sting of rejection.  It keeps many from stepping out of their comfort zone.  It paralyzes us with fear.

Those that step into leadership positions, either by a calling or through their own ambition, immediately become targets for their own shortcomings and those of whatever it is they are leading.

The church is one place where acceptance should be found.  Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen.  Many have walked away hurt, confused and bitter because they have been looked down upon or treated as inferior.

What a terrible thing it is not to be accepted for who you are, regardless of how others think.  It is okay to disagree, it is not okay to judge, dismiss or take humanity from those that we disagree with.

Not being accepted…

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