Category Archives: Pastors Corner

Inspirational faith based articles from local Pastors in the Eastvale area.

You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling…”

Tim Eaton

Tim Eaton

By Pastor Tim Eaton

We pass an old picture in the hallway.  We see friends begin a new love.  A romantic movie touches our hearts.

Whatever it is, we sometimes wonder where the love in our own life has gone.  It seems like most everything around us is designed to drain the last drop of romance or love out of our lives.  Long hours of work (or worries about a lack of work), busing the kids all over town, trying to keep the house clean, paying the bills – all of this leaves us exhausted and frustrated…anything but in the mood for love.

We misunderstand love as an emotion, but think about it.  Where do those emotions come from?  Actions create those emotions.  That’s why we call it a “romantic gesture”, something has been done that shows us love.  Love is action.

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers,” (1 John 3:16).

What we might miss is that if we don’t feel very loving, doing something loving can recreate love in us just as much as it makes someone else feel loved.

If you’ve lost that lovin’ feeling this Valentine’s season, then lay down all the things in your life that have put an end to your love and do something for the one you love.  If you need help, drop the kids off at our Kid’s Night Out, held on Fri., Feb. 12, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Harada Elementary – and give the gift of time to the one you love.

Pastor Tim Eaton is from Edgewater Lutheran Church.  Services are on Sundays at 10am at Harada Elementary,12884 Oakdale Street, Eastvale, CA  92880.  For more information, please visit http://www.EdgewaterEastvale.org.

Quiet Down

rob-norris-BW-2x2By Pastor Norris

“But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness to pray.” Luke 5:16

Did you know there are cultures in the world that don’t have a word for “minute” or “hour”? They simply have no need or desire to measure time in such short increments. Nor do they attempt to maximize every second of every day. Filling their lives to the brink would be unthinkable.

Sound too third-worldish to you? Isn’t it easy to see how such words are not necessary in places where people grow their own food and rarely venture beyond their own village?

I’m not suggesting that we all move into the woods and live off the land. But I am encouraging you to consider the benefits of pulling the throttle back just a notch and embracing a more contemplative lifestyle. When you allow yourself time for creative solitude, you can see God at work and begin to rediscover life in all its richness. When you give yourself the necessary time and space to seek clarity, gain perspective and ponder decisions, you find more to savor, enjoy and appreciate.

As I reflect on these two different approaches to life–the rushed and the restful–I force myself to ask, How did Jesus live? Was He frantic or steady? Was He checking the sundial every few minutes, wishing He could cut some time off His commute to the next city? Or was He able to stop and tend to the needs around Him?

Jesus had more pressure on Him than any of us can fathom. His own disciples were always peppering Him with questions. The Pharisees wanted Him dead. The crowds wanted Him king. Many pressed against Him, wanting to be healed.

Yet He got alone to pray. To think. To be strengthened. He sought His Father and enjoyed Him in the quiet moments of life.

Live it
What is one thing you could change in order to carve out more time to rest? Talk about how you use Sunday, the day of rest, as a couple.

Pray
Ask the Lord to start you on a new quest towards a quieter heart in 2016. Let Him show you what could be eliminated to open up time with Him.

The Crossings meets Sundays, 10 a.m., at River Heights Intermediate, 7227 Scholar Way, in Eastvale. For more information, call (951) 847-6836, or visit http://www.atthecrossings.com.

A Piece of Humble Pie

Pastor Ed Moreno

Pastor Ed Moreno

By Pastor Ed Moreno

 

About thirty-two years ago, I was asked to speak at a Baccalaureate service for seniors of a Christian high school and their parents.

This was during a period of my early ministry when everything was going really well, and to be honest I was beginning to think I was “all that.”  Yep, I was fairly taken with myself and I arrived at the high school pretty much expecting to “wow” the crowd.

The guy who introduced me as the guest speaker said a lot of nice things about me and commended me to the audience.

I stepped up to the podium with a whole lot of pride in my heart.  My words and my body language basically assured the teens and parents that I agreed with everything that the guy who introduced me had just said.  The air of arrogance emitting from me could not be missed.

Because of this unmistakable manifestation of pride, the audience immediately left me, and so did the empowerment of God’s Holy Spirit.  And so, for the next twenty minutes, I choked down about fifty pounds of humble pie.

The situation was such that I also had to stay for the reception and fellowship time after the service, at which no one spoke to me.  It was an absolutely unbearable evening and a life lesson that I never want to be retaught.

That night, I learned first-hand the truth of Jesus’ words found in Luke 14:11, where he says: “For the proud will be humbled, but the humble will be honored.”

You know, one does not have to study the Bible for very long before he/she realizes that human pridefulness does not sit well with God.

How are you handling pride in your life?  Have you had to eat any humble pie lately?

New Day Christian Church meets Sundays at 9:30 and 11 a.m.  They are located at 7155 Hamner Avenue, at Schleisman Road, next to the Fire Station.  For more information, call (951) 278-8367, or visit http://www.newdaycc.net.

Opposition

Dennis Morales X-ORIG“… submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” James 4:7

By Pastor Dennis Morales

It’s awesome to be able to turn the page and start fresh in a new year.  For some, 2015 may have been a contentious year.  I have realized that the closer we draw to the Lord and His will for our lives, the more the Devil will be there to oppose.  The Apostle Peter also points out that some afflictions may come from both disobedience and obedience (1 Peter 3:17).  I’m reminded of Nehemiah, who is described as a man of character and prayer.  He had been in Babylonian captivity.  He asked the king if he could go rebuild the walls of his home town, Jerusalem, which had been destroyed.  With God in the driver’s seat, Nehemiah was able to begin rebuilding the walls.    Almost immediately, a man name Saballat opposed Nehemiah.   Accusation was made about Nehemiah and his motives for rebuilding the walls of the city.  In the face of opposition, he didn’t back down or hide.  Nehemiah prayed and laid out the situation before God (Nehemiah 4:4-5).  We find Nehemiah praying 11 times through the book that bears his name.   Nehemiah is given encouragement and wisdom to complete the work of God.  In times of opposition we come to realize that our “knees” and “hearts” are brought to the rightful position.  We are more prone to lean upon God, than to rest upon our own strength (2 Corinthians 12:9).  In this new year, we may meet resistance, but remember that victory is around the corner.  “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world.  And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith..” (1 John 5:4)

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays at 10:30am, and Wednesdays at 7:00pm at Clara Barton Elementary School, 7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale.  Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Kindness is Contagious

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

Complimentary cups of coffee, free lunches, and other fun surprises were recently gifted to people throughout the Inland Empire as part of a special project launched by VantagePoint Church on December 13. Everyone attending services that Sunday was invited to partner with the church in an effort to spread love and cheer during the holiday season.  Each individual was given a small red envelope containing $5, $10, or $20, and was asked to use the money to perform a random act of kindness.

The thought behind this project was that it would provide a ray of light in a world consumed by darkness. In the days that followed the distribution of the envelopes, stories of joy, hope, and excitement were shared.  Wonderful conversations, unexpected connections, and emotional encounters occurred because of these random acts.

While we expected the project to positively impact the community, the reality is that the givers were affected even more!  In fact, many went beyond the red envelopes and gave from their own pockets.  Some individuals have even announced plans to incorporate random acts into their daily lives.  The members of VantagePoint Church have discovered that kindness is contagious – and addicting!

As we enter this new year, newspaper headlines highlight the negativity that has infected society.  From terrorist attacks and senseless crimes to political turmoil and general discord, it can often seem as if there is nothing we can do to combat the darkness in the world.  But, there is.  Luke 6:35 says, “Love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great.”  After all, there is only one thing can truly defeat evil – the love of God!

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Empowered for Resolution

Pastor Robert Jewett Word of Truth Community ChurchBy Pastor Robert Jewett

As we begin a new year, many of us will set out to make changes in our lives.  After enjoying much feasting from Thanksgiving through New Year’s, it is typical to resolve to change our eating habits and setup some serious exercise routines.  Fitness gyms love this time of year because memberships spike.  The mindset is, “I am going to get healthy this year!”  While I certainly share these sentiments, I also understand that my spiritual health is even more important than my physical health.

Changing eating habits and committing to exercising regularly takes self-discipline and a time commitment. To plan out meals, shop for specific foods, and then prepare healthy meals takes dedication.  Adding a new exercise routine takes even more energy and time.  While many will make a resolution to start these habits, not all will successfully accomplish them.  If you happened to make this resolution, I encourage you to press on and not give up.

Beyond your physical bodies, however, I want to encourage you to “train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Tim. 4:7-8).  Training for godliness begins by repenting from sin and placing all your trust in Jesus Christ.  Much like eating a healthy diet and exercising, your spiritual diet includes regularly reading the Bible and then doing what it says.  Your ongoing spiritual training occurs daily as you express your love for God by obeying him and by loving others.  The beauty of your spiritual training is that since it is ultimately for the glory of God, it is God who empowers your resolution to get spiritually fit: “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Phil. 2:13).

Let the training begin!

Word of Truth Community Church meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at 850 E. Parkridge Ave., #110, in Corona.  For more information, visit wordoftruthcc.com.

Start The Year With Laughter

Tim Eaton

Tim Eaton

By Pastor Tim Eaton

 

It’s no laughing matter.  Recent news events have been some of the most horrific we have heard in a long time.  From across the globe to our own back yard, people of evil intent have sought to take lives and frighten others to their core.  It’s demoralizing to hear the news.  We struggle to get past the sadness of wonderful lives lost for no reason.  We join the bystanders in their terror and fear for their lives.  It destabilizes our everyday life – we wonder: might I encounter a similar fate in some day-to-day event?

The timing of these events couldn’t be worse.  They cast a dark shadow over the Christmas season.  After all, the San Bernardino attack was at a holiday party.  But far from ill timed, Christmas came at just the right time (Galatians 4:4-5).  God sent His Son into the world to shine a light into the shadowy events of our world.  Isaiah 9:6 proclaims, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and he will be called Prince of Peace.”

Peace seems to have been destroyed by recent events, but we are comforted to know that victory belongs to someone else.  Jesus promised as much in John 16:33: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Jesus, the real meaning of Christmas, turns our mourning into dancing.  Let Him light up your world with candlelight services this Dec. 23 and 24.  And, if being broke after Christmas has you down, then start the New Year with laughter at a FREE comedy concert on Sat., Jan. 2, at 7 p.m. – featuring the award-winning comedian, Nazareth!  Get your free tickets online today at EdgewaterLutheran.org.

Edgewater Lutheran Church meets Sundays at 10 a.m., worshiping at Harada Elementary, 12884 Oakdale Street, Eastvale, CA, 92880;http://www.EdgewaterLutheran.org.

Priceless Gift

Pastor Robert Jewett

Pastor Robert Jewett

By Pastor Robert Jewett

According to all the religions of the world, biblical Christianity is the only one that claims you are not able to save yourself by being good enough to inherit Heaven. In fact, it teaches that salvation is a gift from God. This gift was given to us by God’s grace through faith in Christ.  By simple definition, a gift is something that is given voluntarily without payment in return.

The reason why salvation has to be a gift from God is because even in man’s best attempt to be righteous, his good works are still like filthy rags to God (Isaiah 64:6). The Bible says that we have ALL sinned and have fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Since we have all sinned against God, the only way to inherit eternal life is to be “justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24).

So how is being justified a gift? Although wonderfully profound, the simplicity is that although I have sinned, Christ paid the penalty for my sins so that God can look upon me “just if I’d” never sinned.  The gift therefore is complete and permanent forgiveness.

As you celebrate Christmas, remember that there is no gift that comes even remotely close to the priceless gift we have in Jesus!  May you have a very blessed CHRISTmas!

 

Word of Truth Community Church meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at 850 E. Parkridge Ave., #110, in Corona. For more information, visit WordOfTruthCC.com.

Show Up, Lord

rob-norris-BW-2x2By Pastor Rob Norris

 

“Ah Lord GOD! Nothing is too difficult for You.” Jeremiah 32:17

How many times have you prayed for God to “show up”–that He would reveal His purpose and power and presence in an unmistakable way?

Some people might say, “Aw, that’s just the way Christians talk. No one really expects God to ‘show up’ or do anything.” Well, it’s not just talk if God can actually do it. Look at the context for today’s verse:

Ah Lord GOD! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for You, who shows loving kindness to thousands, but repays the iniquity of fathers into the bosom of their children after them, O great and mighty God. The LORD of hosts is His name; great in counsel and mighty in deed, whose eyes are open to all the ways of the sons of men, giving to everyone according to his ways and according to the fruit of his deeds
(Jeremiah 32:17-19).

This passage tells me that God can break through the most desperate situations in your lives and transform them into trophies of His grace. He can intervene in the lives of your friends and family members–even those who are running hard from Him right now–and turn their whole world around.

Sometimes we grow weary of praying for God to act. When an answer to prayer doesn’t immediately come, we can become impatient. We’re tempted to quit after a while. But never misjudge God’s silence as inactivity. He is working and waiting for the right time to show up, to leave no doubt that He’s the One who makes all the difference. Trusting and believing with you.

Live It:
In what areas do you need God to intervene in your life? Who in your family needs God to show up?

Pray:
Pray for God to show up in your life and in the lives of the people you’re praying for–that He would make His presence real in your lives.

Meeting @ 10:00 at River Heights Intermediate School 7227 Scholar Way, Eastvale CA.

Join us Christmas Eve at 4 p.m. for the musical drama “3 Hidden Gifts” presented by the Crossing Music & Drama Team.

The Crossings meets Sundays, 10 a.m., at River Heights Intermediate, 7227 Scholar Way, in Eastvale. For more information, call (951) 847-6836, or visit http://www.atthecrossings.com.

“God’s Timing”

Dennis Morales X-ORIGBy Pastor Dennis Morales

“… But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son born of a woman…” Luke 2:20

December can drag on for most kids. Waiting for Christmas can be grueling for most kids as the day draws near to open their gifts. I overheard a group of kids saying they have mastered the art of “present peeking.” They can shake a gift or touch the box and they instantly have an idea of what it is. A boy in the same group said “what’s the use, you still have to wait until Christmas to enjoy it!”

God’s people had been waiting for the Promised Messiah for centuries. It had been a promise passed on for generations. But God was working out the details. He wanted the Gospel to be taken to the world. Just three centuries before Christ, Alexander the Great, unknown to him, established the language and roadways that assisted first century missionaries in making the Gospel a reality to the known world.
The “Fullness of time,” which in the original Greek language means “at the perfect time” the Gospel was born. When the timing was perfect, God sent His Son born of a Virgin to bring hope to a broken world. We will all have waiting seasons in life. Sometimes the waiting seasons of my life are when God seems so silent and so slow to move. But I have come to realize that God’s delays are not necessarily God’s denials. God is working out the details. When the time is perfect, God will move. There is nothing God can’t do and nothing beyond His knowledge. God works in ways that are beyond my knowledge and understanding (Romans 11:33; Isaiah 55:9).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30 a.m., and Wednesdays, 7 p.m. at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale).  Visit their website at www.calvaryeastvale.org.

The Ultimate Reason for the Season

Pastor Ed Moreno of New Day Christian Church, Eastvale

Pastor Ed Moreno of New Day Christian Church, Eastvale

By Pastor Ed Moreno

 

What is the ultimate reason Christmas is important?  Well, I’m not going to say expressing love and generosity through the giving of gifts and such isn’t an important aspect of our Christmas celebrations. Because the giving of gifts blesses people and brings joy to their lives, and that’s a good thing. But is it the ultimate reason Christmas is important?

What about all the supernatural and miraculous stuff that occurred surrounding the Christmas story – are they the reason Christmas is so important?  I mean, think of all the angel activity.  An angel appeared to Mary and to Joseph.  A bunch of angels appeared to the shepherds – that’s all pretty cool, right?

Then think of the fulfilled prophecies concerning the birth of Jesus, e.g., 700 years prior to that glorious event, the Old Testament prophet Micah predicted it would occur in the town of Bethlehem.  How could he possibly know the location where the Messiah would be born unless God revealed it to him?

The prophet Isaiah foretold that Jesus would be born of a virgin, i.e., of a woman who never had relations with a man – and then it happened!  Wow!  Even in our day of in-vitro fertilization, having a baby without any human male involvement whatsoever is still recognized as an incredible miracle, right?

But, even so, neither the Immaculate Conception, nor any of the other miraculous and supernatural happenings surrounding the birth of Christ are the ultimate reason Christmas is important.

No, the ultimate reason Christmas is important and should be celebrated by the whole world is because it was foretold that Mary’s baby would be called and, in fact, would be:  “IMMANUEL,” which means “God With Us.”

Christ, the second person of the Holy Trinity, who existed from all eternity, and who is the One through whom all things in heaven and on earth were created – it is this second person of the Holy Trinity who humbled himself and allowed himself to be born into this world through Mary.  This is the ultimate reason Christmas is important.

For, if God the Son had not come and lived a sinless life in human flesh, so as to able to take the punishment upon himself that you and I deserve for our wrongs, then we would be lost and without hope.  But Christ did come, so for sure celebrate and sing with all your heart those glorious words: “Joy To The World, The Lord Is Come!”  Merry Christmas, everyone!

New Day Christian Church meets Sundays at 9:30 and 11 a.m.  They are located at 7155 Hamner Avenue, at Schleisman Road, next to the Fire Station.  For more information, call (951) 278-8367, or visit http://www.newdaycc.net.

 

Overcoming Burdens

Pastor Robert Jewett

Pastor Robert Jewett

By Pastor Robert Jewett

“Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.” -Psalm 55:22
Nobody likes to have burdens but they are a common part of life. Some people hold to a false belief that once they respond to God’s love by abiding in Christ, they will no longer have burdens. This is not a Biblical view and will only lead to defeat and disillusionment in that person’s life. Scripture not only tells us that we will have burdens. It also tells us how to endure, deal with, and overcome all burdens that life will bring.

Burdens come in all sorts. They may be physical, relational, financial, etc. What is a burden in my life may, or may not, be a burden in your life. What is common in our burdens, however, is that God can use all of them to draw us closer to him. Paul expressed how he, along with Timothy, were utterly burdened with afflictions so severely that they despaired of life itself, but that the sufferings made them rely not on themselves but on God (2 Cor. 1:8-10).
Much like Paul and Timothy learned, we too will experience burdens that are meant to get us to rely not on our own strength but upon God’s. These burdens are meant to remind us to keep our hope in God and not in anything else. Remember, if God is for us, who can be against us (Rom. 8:31).
Word of Truth Community Church meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at 850 E. Parkridge Ave., #110, in Corona. For more information, visit WordOfTruthCC.com.

A New Legacy

rob-norris-BW-2x2By Pastor Rob Norris

“This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success.” -Joshua 1:8
As a people, we are healthier but not happier. We are drenched in knowledge but parched for wisdom. Materially we are wealthy, but we suffer a profound poverty of the soul. The longer I live, the more I see that our nation needs a spiritual reformation in its inner spirit.
Nowhere is this more apparent than in the state of the family. The biblical values that built our great nation–once passed on from each generation to the next as a national treasure–are being questioned and dismissed. As a result, never before have we seen such deterioration in our homes:

  • Never before have so many children grown up in broken homes.
  • Never before has the definition of marriage been altered to allow for two people of the same sex.
  • Never before has the marriage covenant been viewed with such contempt by a generation of young people.
  • Never before have parents been ridiculed for seeking to raise children with biblical values.
  • Never before have so many Christians laughed, shrugged their shoulders or did nothing about adultery, divorce and sin.
  • Never before has materialism been so flagrantly embraced over relationships.
  • Never before has the family been in such need of a new legacy.

The pivotal national issue today is not crime; neither is it welfare, health care, education, politics, the economy, the media or the environment. The pivotal issue today is the spiritual and moral condition of individual men and women, husbands and wives, mothers and fathers, and families.
Nations are never changed until people are changed. The true hope for genuine change in the heart lies only in the life-changing power of Jesus Christ. Through Him, lives can be rebuilt. Through Him, families can be reformed.
How has the deterioration of our homes affected your family? Your extended family?

Live it: Pray that change in our country will begin with change in your lives and home.

The Crossings meets Sundays, 10 a.m., at River Heights Intermediate, 7227 Scholar Way, in Eastvale. For more information, call (951) 847-6836, or visit http://www.atthecrossings.com.

Give Peace a Chance This Thanksgiving

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point in Eastvale

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point in Eastvale

By Pastor Mark Lee

Millions of Americans will soon be giving thanks while gorging on platefuls of turkey.  Although Thanksgiving became a national holiday in 1863, this feasting tradition can be traced back several hundred years earlier to Plymouth, Massachusetts. In 1621, Puritan settlers celebrated their first good harvest with an impressive banquet. The most remarkable aspect of this first Thanksgiving was that it was made possible by the region’s natives. Despite their obvious differences, the Wampanoag people had helped the settlers survive.

While it is highly likely that the natives were concerned by the Puritans, they overcame their suspicions and reached out. Over the next several weeks, it is possible that many of us will find ourselves in a similar position. Statistics reveal that one of the most stressful aspects of the holiday season is family.  Ancient hostility and old offenses can leave us feeling hurt, angry or anxious.  And, while our complicated relationships are avoidable throughout the year, the holidays often make them inescapable.

Skipping Thanksgiving dinner with the family may be tempting, but the reality is that we all eventually come in contact with “haters.”  When doing so, we need to be honest and apologetic about the role we play in the discord.  And, above all, we need to give grace to those who have wronged us.  After all, how many times have you regretted something you have said or done that was unkind?

One of the most powerful ways to combat tension is with kindness. In Luke 6:35, Jesus says, “Love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great.”  Imagine how shocked the settlers were when the natives lent a helping hand. Now, imagine how shocked Grumpy Uncle Bob would be if you gave him the last piece of pumpkin pie. What could be sweeter than a peaceful holiday season?

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

A Great-Full Heart

Tim Eaton

Tim Eaton

By Pastor Tim Eaton

Thanksgiving is just around the corner.  Are you ready for it? I don’t mean do you have all the trappings of a fabulous turkey dinner or your plans all set to see family and friends.  I mean are you ready to give thanks?  Have you started already, or do you not yet have enough to be thankful for?  As Thanksgiving approaches do you have a grateful heart or are you continually seeking more?

It’s hard to be grateful when it seems we don’t have enough.  It may seem like there is never enough time, money, resources, or help.  It’s not only hard to be grateful, it’s easy to be scared; scared that there isn’t enough, we won’t have what we need, and won’t get what we want.  When a lack of stuff scares us it isn’t long before we lash out at others – afraid they will take, use, or loose what should be ours.  It’s no wonder that an attitude of scarcity grows like a hunger in us that can never be satisfied.

But is it possible we actually have more than we need?  Maybe we have so much we don’t even realize it could be put to better use.  Perhaps it could be better appreciated instead of squandered.

King David wrote Psalm 23 while he was clearly in danger of being killed by his enemies.  It may have been written during one of the many times he fled his own kingdom to find safety (“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death…in the presence of my enemies”).  It is likely he took little with him for the journey.  From the attitude of scarcity he seems to have nothing.  But David sees life from an attitude of abundance saying things like: “I lack nothing” and “my cup overflows.” His heart is Great and Full, not because of what he has, but because he trusts that God will graciously provide all that he truly needs.  A Great and Full heart is the antidote to the hunger of scarcity.  Have your heart filled every Sunday at Edgewater.

P.S. – Mark your calendars, Comedian Nazareth will be at Edgewater, January 2 and 3.

Edgewater Lutheran Church meets Sundays at 10 a.m., worshiping at Harada Elementary, 12884 Oakdale Street, Eastvale, CA, 92880;http://www.EdgewaterLutheran.org.

Gratitude

Dennis Morales X-ORIGBy Pastor Dennis Morales

“… in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you….”  -1 Thessalonians 5:18

Gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation. In other words, gratitude is the attitude of thankfulness. It goes deeper than just saying “thank you” or being “cheerful.”  Gratitude is living fulfilled.  Two men, Paul and Silas, had been falsely accused, beaten, and thrown into prison over the healing of a demon possessed girl (Acts 16).   Their first reaction wasn’t to call their lawyers or to complain to God. Instead they sang hymns and prayed. It was then an earthquake suddenly shook the prison, their chains were loosened, the cell doors then opened, and they were free.  Paul and Silas didn’t see their false imprisonment as a curse.  Their situation didn’t change the way they looked at God.
They knew the hope they had in Christ.  They saw this as an opportunity to worship God.
Why?  It’s because God is in control of all the circumstances surrounding our lives (Romans 8:28).
We also know that God loves us and is always looking out for our eternal benefit (2 Corinthians 4:17–18).  No doubt for some, this year has held much difficulty.  Know that God has given us a hope that does not disappoint (Romans 5:5).  He has assured us that there is future life with Him.  We know a different sustaining through difficulty.  It’s God, our “Strong Tower” (Proverbs 18:10) who sustains us.  We are assured that He and His favor is with us (Deuteronomy 31:6).  The thought of this truth brings fulfillment and gratitude that is lasting.  Thank you Lord.
Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30 a.m., and Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale).  Visit their website at www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30 a.m., and Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale).  Visit their website at www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Transformed

Pastor Ed Moreno

Pastor Ed Moreno

By Pastor Ed Moreno

I’ve been an avid movie goer for as long as I can remember, which is why it’s surprising even to me that I’ve never gone to see any of the “Transformer” movies; so I would not be someone who could comment on them.

I do, however, know something about what it means to experience transformation.  And I do know “the” real life Transformer who transformed me:  Jesus.

Let me begin at the beginning.  My birth name is Edward Hector Fernando Moreno.  That’s a pretty Hispanic name (as if you couldn’t tell).  I was born and raised in Los Angeles.  My dad physically and psychologically abused my mom, and he hit me so often that I would flinch when he walked by.

The gang infested neighborhoods that I lived in were violent, too.  In a seven year period, I was in about 15 to 20 street fights.  Drug use and a generally immoral lifestyle were also the norm for me.

I was definitely not a college-bound kind of guy, so after high school I immediately entered the work force.  There I found another kind of violence (i.e., the undermining and back stabbing others do to you to get ahead).

By age 19, I literally asked myself: “Is this it?  Is this what life is all about?”  That was the beginning of my search for the real purpose of life.

At age 20, I went with the other brown and black belts at my dojo to go see a new scary movie.  We were “tough” guys and thought: How scary could it be?

Well the movie was “The Exorcist,” and I have to be honest, it scared me a lot.  Because even though I wasn’t raised in a religious home, for some reason I believed that demonic spirits were real and that I was defenseless against them.

For some reason, I also believed that God was real and that he was stronger than the demonic.  So I became determined to go to a church to find out more about God.

The youth pastor had enough presence of mind to hand me an easy to read translation of the Bible before I left that Sunday.  I went to my apartment and started reading through the Gospel of Matthew.

Suddenly, all the lights began to go on.  I was taken with the beauty of Jesus’ life.  I read of a heavenly Father who loved me, even if my earthly father didn’t.   I saw that God had a purpose for my life, and I discovered the meaning of life, which is to love God and serve him gladly.

The next Sunday, when the Pastor gave the opportunity for people to accept God’s offer of salvation through Jesus, his Son, I couldn’t get down the aisle fast enough.

I went home, grabbed the two baggies of marijuana that I had in a drawer, flushed them down the toilet and never looked back.  And the rest, as they say, is history.

The Scripture says that we are a “new creation” in Christ.  I can testify to the truth of that statement.  And as one who has been transformed by the real live Transformer, I can say that now I’m living life with true and lasting purpose.  The old life served no such purpose.

When people feel like they’ll “miss out” on life if they become a follower of Jesus, the crazy thing is that it’s by not becoming a follower of Jesus that they wind up “missing out” on real life – a life of real substance and that has eternal value attached to it.

If you are not a follower of Jesus yet, my prayer is that you will become one soon.  So why not check out a church, and maybe the positive life transforming experience I had will become your experience, too.

New Day Christian Church meets Sundays at 9:30 and 11 a.m.  They are located at 7155 Hamner Avenue, at Schleisman Road, next to the Fire Station.  For more information, call (951) 278-8367, or visit http://www.newdaycc.net.

The Cost Of Discipleship

Pastor Robert Jewett

Pastor Robert Jewett

By Pastor Robert Jewett

And a scribe came up and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head,” (Matthew 8:19–20).

It has become commonplace to make the call of discipleship appealing to the natural man.  The truth about discipleship has been replaced with a “better you” mantra.  The importance of man has been elevated, instead of the importance of God.  As a result, the gift of God is no longer received with gratitude, but instead expected as some type of entitlement.

Jesus’ call to discipleship was far different than what is often taking place today.  Jesus always laid out the cost of discipleship.  Popular opinion today says, “Laying out the cost of discipleship is not good church-growth practice.”

It is believed that such truth would discourage individuals from following Christ.  If Christ is our example, why would we present discipleship any different from him?  After all, it is God who adds to the church those who are being saved (Acts 2:47).

Are we more concerned with the number of attendees than we are with those who are being saved?  God help us if this is the case!  Christ was concerned with truth.   Jesus said, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31-32).  The truth is… discipleship has a cost.

Word of Truth Community Church meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays at 7 p.m., at 850 E. Parkridge Ave., #110, in Corona. For more information, visit WordOfTruthCC.com.

Home Of The Brave

rob-norris-BW-2x2By Pastor Rob Norris

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up,” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

Maurice “Mo” Cheeks has enjoyed a long and successful career as a player and coach in the National Basketball Association. But in my opinion, his greatest moment in basketball had nothing to do with the action on the court.

On April 25, 2003, 13-year old Natalie Gilbert began singing the national anthem in front of the Portland Trail Blazers’ home crowd — as well as a national TV audience. Shortly into the song, she jumbled some words, and then she froze. Panicking, she held the microphone to her forehead, as if searching her brain for the right words. But just as she was about to give up (and look for the proverbial hole to crawl in), “Mo” Cheeks stepped to her side and began singing the song with her, helping her hold the microphone in place.

Urging the crowd to join in, he stayed with her the whole way, his off-key voice shadowing hers in sweet duet. It sounded awful, but it was beautiful. And you could see (and hear) Natalie’s confidence grow stronger with every line.

“He totally saved me,” Natalie told an interviewer. “I was walking off afterward, and he said, ‘Don’t worry, kid — everyone has a bad game once in a while.'”

As our kids would say, “Cool.”

The episode reminded me of the power we have as parents to come alongside and encourage our children. They need to dream big and shoot high, to put themselves out there into the battle where they run the risk of failure. And when they stumble — as they sometimes will — they need us to be there. Be all there, occasionally with the right words to see them through. They should never have to fall on their face too far from where our arms are.

Discuss:  Regardless of your children’s ages, in what areas do they need your active encouragement right now?
Pray:  Pray that your words of affirmation, belief and support will be encouraging and uplifting.

The Crossings meets Sundays, 10 a.m., at River Heights Intermediate, 7227 Scholar Way, in Eastvale. For more information, call (951) 847-6836, or visit http://www.atthecrossings.com.

Halloween Candy And Other Temptations

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

October is magical.  The leaves change colors, the weather cools down, and stores begin stocking copious amounts of individually wrapped candies.

As we all know, these delightful treats are hard to resist.  Retailers estimate that Americans buy nearly 600 million pounds of candy a year.  Although these sweets are purchased primarily for trick-or-treaters, many households have to replenish their supplies before the 31st rolls around.

While it is true that few can ignore the siren call of Halloween candy, a craving for unhealthy food isn’t the only desire people need to control.  Many fall victim to the allure of unnecessary shopping, idle gossip, casual sex, unrighteous anger, and a number of other enticements.  While individuals may feel their battle to ignore certain urges is unique, the truth is that temptation is a universal experience.

Nobody ever plans to eat an entire pint of ice cream or lose their temper with their children.  Even though we make a conscious effort to always say, eat, and do the right thing, moments of weakness are inevitable.  When our physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are not being met, it becomes increasingly difficult to regulate our actions.

A great way to resist temptation is to remember the three As:  Admit, Avoid, and Ask.  Once you admit there is a problem, it is necessary to avoid your vice.  Asking friends and family to help you stay strong is also a helpful way to fight your urges.  Better yet, look to Heaven for your strength.

In 1 Corinthians 10:13, the apostle Paul promises that “God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.”

Halloween candy may be delicious, but it isn’t nearly as sweet as the feeling of overcoming temptation.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.