Tag Archives: Calvary Chapel Eastvale

Praise Him

By Pastor Dennis Morales
“Through Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of [our] lips, giving thanks to His name.” Hebrews 13:15
Words are powerful, especially words of praise or thanks. God is honored with our words of praise and thanksgiving. It is easy to praise God when the sun is shining, or when our kids are getting good grades in school, or maybe if we have received a promotion at work. Scripture says that praise is also a sacrifice at times. That’s when things are not too good. When we praise God in the difficulty, it is the praise of sacrifice. When we praise Him, we proclaim our faith in Him.

The Psalmist writes “As for me, I will always have hope. I will praise you more and more (Psalm 71:14). A sacrifice of praise is something that we offer to God — in times of well-being and in times of sorrow. Never allow praise to become a habit of only a celebratory activity. When times are tough, praise has the ability to lighten our hearts and fill us with a sense of possibility, love, and security that can only come from Heaven’s throne. When you are able to praise God in the difficulty, you are trusting what God sees and His provision.

In the late 1800’s George Mueller operated an orphanage that at one time had 1,000 orphans. One morning there was no food to eat, but he called all the children and staff together and prayed thanking God for the provision of food, even though no food was on the table. A few moments later a baker knocked on the door. He told Mr. Muller that God had led him to bake bread the night before and give it to the orphanage. Before the bread was given to the children, a milkman knocked on the door. He said that his milk truck had broken down and he wanted to give the milk to the orphanage. George Muller gave thanks, even when it took faith to do so.

Praise is another word for admiration, and it’s often linked to thanksgiving. Take some time and praise Him today for all He has done. Praise Him because He is able. “Praise Him because He is worthy” (Psalm 145:3).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at Eastvale Elementary located at 13031 Orange St, Eastvale. Sundays 8:30/10:30am. Livestream, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live is also available. http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Deliberate Confidence

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me…” 2 Timothy 4:17

What gives you confidence?  Watching the “2020” Olympics, I can’t help but to be impressed by the confidence of the athletes who are on one of the biggest stages of their lives.    Families and whole countries are cheering them on and hoping they bring home the gold.   It would seem a lifetime of training, a strong support system, a focused mind, and for some faith, has given these athletes such strong confidence.   Paul the Apostle used athletic metaphors often.  One of his last metaphors he employed was of both a fighter and runner.   As Paul was penned his swan song letter to Timothy, he says “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). What is most impressive is that he wrote these words from prison, with few friends left.  In prison for his faith in Christ.  Having few friends willing to stand with him for fear of their own lives, or because of societal shame.  What then gave Paul confidence?  Paul experienced God standing with him in past circumstances and difficulties.  He also knew countless others were spurred to faith in Christ through his chains as his faith was on display (Philippians 1:12).  Many saw the reality of Christ power in his willingness to suffer for Christ.  Oswald Chambers once said, “Faith is deliberate confidence in the character of God whose ways you may not understand at the time.”   Paul found himself at times in chains, being beaten, shipwrecked, and even abandoned, but those were times when he knew the Lord was closest and stood with him (2 Timothy 4:17).  Paul said, “none of these things move me” so to finish his race with joy (Acts 20:24).  Joy in the fact that he would finish his race on this side of Heaven with unwavering faith.  Deliberate confidence is (Faith) that God is always in control.  The Lord stood with Paul as Paul stood with the Lord.  I pray you that you live deliberately confident in the fact that God hears you and is standing with you. 

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at Eastvale Elementary located at 13031 Orange St, Eastvale.  Sundays 8:30/10:30am.  Livestream, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live is also available.  http://www.calvaryeastvale.org. 

Healing Faith

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Be of good cheer, daughter, your faith has made you well.” Matthew 9:22

As Jesus would pass through the region, people would crowd him to see Him, hear Him, or seek to be healed by Him.  His reputation preceded Him as a prophet and healer, but little did they know at the time that He was the Christ, who was prophesized about going back to Genesis 3:15.   As Jesus made his way through this particular city, and as crowds were pressing into Him, He says “who touched me?” (Luke 8:45).  One of His disciples says with exuberant confidence “Master everyone is touching you.”  Yes, obviously, many seemed to be touching Him, but Jesus said this was different.  He says, “I perceive power has gone out from Me.” (Luke 8:46).   Something was different about this person’s touch.  When Jesus asked the question “who touched Me,” the crowd dissipated a bit and all who was left was a woman on her knees trembling.   This woman reached out and touched the hem of Jesus’ garment and was healed instantly.   She “reached out” as a last resort after 12 years of seeking physicians and exhausting her every dime.   She was a woman most likely ostracized for her condition as she was considered “unclean.”  Ostracized from family, friends, and being able to worship at the temple.  Jesus then reaches out to her and speaks to her.  He calls her “daughter.”  Something that she needed and possibly longed to hear.  A term of endearment.  Having a stigma follow her for years, she had little contact with people.  He fulfilled her emotional need, but most importantly, He says to her, “your faith has made you well.”   Her greatest need was for a Savior.  Faith was necessary for her healing.  She, in the midst of years of disappointment, believed God could heal her.  Religion or a church cannot heal you, but if you reach out to Jesus and ask Him into your heart, He can touch you spiritually.  Believe He can transform you today.   

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at Eastvale Elementary located at 13031 Orange St, Eastvale.  Sundays 8:30/10:30am.  Livestream, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live is also available.  http://www.calvaryeastvale.org. 

Pastor’s Corner: Strong

Pastor Dennis Morales

“In the day when I cried out, You answered me, and made me bold with strength in my soul.” Psalm 138:3

Daniel faced a powerful king and he faced Lions with great strength. When we read of Daniel facing Lions in the Lion’s den, you have to wonder how Daniel was able to do it. Yes, he trusted God, but something brought him to the place of trust. We are told in Daniel 6 that a law had been passed prohibiting prayer to any god or any human other than the king. In fact, the punishment for breaking this law was being thrown to the Lions. It appears that what Daniel does next is what gives him strength. “When Daniel learned that the law had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God” (Daniel 6:10 NLT).


Scripture tells us that Daniel had always done this. Daniel was wired to pray when things got difficult. If obeying God meant certain death, he trusted God. It causes me to think about the things I do when things get difficult. I believe Daniel knew one of the keys to standing was actually kneeling. We are encouraged to resist worrying about anything; instead, pray about everything (Philippians 4:6 NLT). Daniel did just that. Daniel prayed and God gave him the strength to stand in the Lions Den.


As we read, Daniel trusted God, and God shut the mouths of the Lions. What are you facing today? Does it feel like a mountain? Do what Jesus did and go to the mountain and pray. God is able to shut the mouth of the enemy. God is also able to move mountains (Matthew 17:20). God is able to make you strong (Philippians 4:13). Pray and walk in His strength today.


Due to school closures, Calvary Chapel Eastvale is temporarily meeting in a “Drive In format” at American Heroes Park at 8:30am and 10:30am. All midweek services can be viewed on Facebook Live at 7pm. Download our online bulletin to stay current at calvaryeastvale.org.


Join Calvary Chapel Eastvale for Bright Night. Bright Night is a fun and safe alternative to Harvest festivities for families on October 31st at 5PM through 8PM at the American Heroes Park, 6608 Hellman Ave. This is a free drive-thru event for all ages to enjoy the free candy, treats, and music. You can even join in the festivities by decorating your vehicle! For more information, visit www.

Wrestling?

Pastor Dennis Morales

“O Lord, how long shall I cry, And You will not hear?” Habakkuk 1:1

Pandemic, panic, division, and the question, “How much longer, Lord?”    At some point, some of us have wondered, “Where is God?” We may even have thought that it seems like evil is winning and God is silent. Habakkuk shows us that we have a choice as to how we respond to the difficulties in our life.  It’s obvious by the language of Habakkuk at the onset, that he begins to wrestle with God in prayer (Habakkuk’s name actually means wrestle).  Have you ever felt like your prayers are like wrestling prayers?  Habakkuk was troubled by the moral and spiritual decline of the world around him and he wanted answers.  God answers Habakkuk, but it’s probably not the answer he is looking for.   God says, “I’m working, but if I told you how, you wouldn’t believe it” (Hab1:5).  God said He would use the wicked Chaldeans to judge Judah. God’s response troubled him even more because it meant things would get worse. Habakkuk didn’t understand God’s response, but he says later “the just shall live by faith” (Hab 2:4).  Habakkuk would learn that understanding how God works is not his job, trusting Him is.  If God told you everything He is doing and how He would do it, would you be able to understand it?  Would you accept it?  Scripture says God doesn’t think like us (Isaiah 55:8).  It’s easy to get anxious, but God says, “He is working.”  Habakkuk brought his prayer to God and allow His peace to flood his heart (read Philippians 4:7).  Habakkuk’s worship and prayer of encouragement is a beautiful demonstration of his faith in God .  He trusted the steadfast love and faithfulness of his Savior even when he didn’t understand God’s plan.  The prophet Habakkuk lived in a day of uncertainty, much like we do. In light of all his questions about the future, his response remained simple, “yet I will rejoice in the Lord” (Habakkuk 3:18). We too can rejoice, no matter the circumstances.  Will you trust Him today? We are complete in Jesus alone and in His steadfast love and faithfulness (read John 16:33).  Habakkuk’s wrestling became worship. 

Due to school closures, Calvary Chapel Eastvale is temporarily meeting in a “Drive In format” at American Heroes Park at 8:30am and 10:30am.  All midweek services can be viewed on Facebook Live at 7pm.  Download our online bulletin to stay current at calvaryeastvale.org.  

Presence of Peace

Pastor Dennis Morales

“The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace” Psalm 29:11

To have peace, is the quest of most of society. “If I could only have this or that… then I will be at peace.” We have a tendency to place earthly demands on peace. Meaning, many think peace is only attained by things we can see, handle, or control. I am reminded when the disciples had followed Jesus into a boat, He had gone right to sleep after a long day of teaching. A violent storm had erupted, and the disciples were soon being tossed around the boat struggling to fight against the waves and wind (Mark 4:35-41). Mind you, some of the disciples were also toughened fishermen. Goes to show that no matter what our experience, we can feel helpless at times. Scripture says that the waves “covered” the boat (Matt 8:24), so the disciples were desperate. Marks Gospel details that other little boats had followed, so they weren’t alone in what they feared. The disciples, gripped by fear, searched and found Jesus in the stern asleep (literally “numb” in the original language). They respond, “don’t you care that we are perishing!” Jesus simply gets up, goes over, and rebukes the wind by simply saying “peace, be still!” Choice words that resonate today. Jesus then responds by saying to the disciples, “where is your faith?” (Luke 8:25). That was the problem. The disciples still lacked faith in Jesus, who had power over the very elements striking fear in their hearts. I think we have a tendency to turn to outlets for information and remain focused on the information, rather than on God’s presence. We have confirmation in God’s word that God gives strength to his people as they trust in Him. Another caveat of His presence is peace (Psalm 29:11). You will have true peace today if you trust He’s in the boat with you (Psalm 46:10). He is near to all who call upon Him(psalm145:18).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at Clara Barton Elementary School 7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale. Services times are 8:30 & 10:30 on Sundays. 7pm on Wednesdays. Currently ALL SERVICES online: “Calvary Eastvale” YouTube, FaceBook, Twitter, and Instagram.

“Faith is Stronger”

Pastor Dennis Morales

“…Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9

As Joshua took the baton from Moses, his first task as new leader was to take the million plus people across the Jordan and into the Promised Land. It appeared to be a daunting task, because it was harvest time and the Jordan was swollen beyond its banks. Nevertheless, God gave the instructions to cross. The priests would go first. God said the moment they touch the Jordan river water with their feet, the flowing water would part, and all the people could cross. Three days the people waited as they watched the torrent of water. Three days for the enemy to try to plant seeds of doubt and fear in everyone’s hearts. It would take great faith to cross the Jordan. Joshua encouraged the people as he was encouraged by God to have faith. The day came for the people to cross, and they did as God had commanded them. We know from the story why God wanted the priests to go first. It’s because they carried the Ark of the covenant. The Ark represented God’s presence to His people. It was always at the center of the camp and was to be at the center of God’s people. When the priests went into the Jordan, they were told to stand in the center of the riverbed until everyone crossed. The Ark stood with them in the middle of the riverbed until all the people crossed. They experienced God presence with them as they crossed to dispel any doubt or fear. It took faith as they waited and as they crossed, but God brought them through. The same is true today. God standing with you. Faith is the opposite of fear. Trust the Lord to bring you through this difficult time. Trust what God sees. You may not see Him, but He sees your situation. Faith is stronger than Fear. Isaiah 41:10, Isaiah 26:3 and Philippians chapter 4. I encourage you to commit your faith in the Lord and experience His peace today. He will bring us through.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am/Wednesdays 7pm @ Clara Barton Elementary (currently suspended due to the COVID19). ALL SERVICES ARE CURRENTLY ONLINE: calvaryeastvale.org, YouTube, Vimeo, , church bulletin app, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.

Pastor’s Corner: Easter is…

By Dennis Morales

“I am the resurrection and the life…”  John 11:25

          When I think of Easter, I have cool memories of visiting family, going to church in brand new clothes, having conversations over big meals, eating chocolate like there’s no tomorrow, getting chocolate on those brand new clothes, and don’t forget the peeps!   Easter carries with it so many family traditions.  Easter for some can be bittersweet as we have fond memories of loved ones missed.  But we must not forget what Easter actually is.  It is about death and resurrection of life. 

Death is something that grips the world with fear.  Jesus often confronted death in His earthly ministry.  This was an occasion where one of Jesus’ good friends had passed away.  It was at the grave of Lazarus that Jesus wept.  He wept because He knew that death wasn’t part of God’s original plan.  God’s intention wasn’t for mankind to experience suffering and death.  Jesus wept because of the effect of sin over the world and because He saw the pain it caused in His friends Mary and Martha.  Martha told Jesus that if He had been there earlier, they wouldn’t be mourning.  Jesus’ response still resonates throughout time.  He said “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live” (John 11:25).  It’s interesting that in scripture we find that Jesus broke up every funeral He ever attended. Death could not exist where He was. When the dead heard His voice they sprang to life.   This Easter remember what Easter really is.  Jesus met death Himself, but the grave could not hold Him.  He rose.  If you put your faith in Jesus, the Bible says that you will live forever in the presence of God.  Jesus defeated death once for all (Hebrews 10:10).  Jesus is our living hope (1Peter 1:3).   

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am / Wednesdays 7pm @ Clara Barton Elementary (calvaryeastvale.org). 

Pastor’s Corner: Stand in Faith

“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong…”

1 Corinthians 16:13
Pastor Dennis Morales
Pastor Dennis Morales

By Pastor Dennis Morales

This is the final encouragement to a church from the Apostle Paul.  Paul planted the Corinthian church, but the church had issues that needed addressing.  The final comments to them is a calling to “stand fast.”  This is actually a military term meaning to “hold your position” or “to refuse to be defeated.”  There is to be no retreat. Paul is encouraging the Corinthian church to remain strong in the faith because opposition will come.  Trials will ensue.  Are you going through a time of drought?  Are you going through a time of discouragement?   Paul says, “stand firm and be brave.”  I believe we need to share this encouragement all the more today.   I am reminded how “Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore, he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.”   This Scripture says God had brought Daniel into the favor and goodwill of the chief of the eunuchs (Daniel 1:8-9).  Under Babylonian rule, Daniel turned his back on the luxuries of the king’s court because eating defiled food would have been a compromise of his faith.  God honored Daniel’s stand and he earned the respect of the chief of the eunuchs, because Daniel’s courage impressed him.   Daniel stood for God and was strong.  He didn’t seek man’s approval, but God’s will.   If we allow ourselves to be dissuaded from doing anything unless we have complete approval, it almost assured we will never accomplish anything of value. Instead of being discouraged by opposition, we should take comfort in (God’s faithfulness) and keep on doing what is right. Whatever you find yourself up against today, remember that “one,” with God, is the majority.   “If God is for “you” who can stand against you (Romans 8:31).  He sees what you don’t see.  Faith is trusting and believing God.  God does the impossible (Matthew 19:26).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am / Wednesdays 7pm @ Clara Barton Elementary (calvaryeastvale.org). 

Worry Not

Pastor Dennis Morales,
Calvary Chapel Eastvale

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus”

Philippians 4:6-7

A recently licensed pilot was flying his private plane in a cloudy day. He was not very experienced in instrument landing. When the control tower was to bring him in, he began to get panicky. Then a stern voice came over the radio, “You just obey instructions, we’ll take care of the obstructions.”  The devil likes to keep our eyes on the obstructions.  These obstructions lead to a stress filled life. 

It’s no secret.  We are a stressed-out society today.  The American Institute of Stress (yes this is real), states that 77% of people in the US regularly express physical symptoms due to stress.  We’re constantly moving, going from one thing to another, from one worry to another. Stress has a tendency to grip or paralyze a life and steal us of joy.  We rush, we stress, we get frustrated, we feel unaccomplished, we feel depressed.  All are signs of worry.  Worry can be overcome.  Jesus encouraged us to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33).  The first step to defeating worry is to put God first among other options.   What’s the next step?  Communicate with God.  Prayer recently has been scientifically proven to have an effect on brain activity.  Dr. Andrew Newberg of Thomas Jefferson Hospital has been studying the effect of prayer on the human brain for more than 20 years, injecting radioactive dye into subjects and watching what changes inside their heads when they pray.  These changes, says Newberg, are signs of the power of prayer to heal. Said Newberg, “We see not only changes in the activity levels, but in different neurotransmitters, the chemicals in our brain.”  Funny how God already knew this.  Scripture says that prayer will also bring God’s peace, which is the most fulfilling peace. (Philippians 4:6-7)

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am/Wednesdays 7pm @ Clara Barton Elementary 7437 Corona Valley Ave. Eastvale.  (calvaryeastvale.org). 

The Proof

Pastor Dennis Morales

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“But they found the stone rolled away from the tomb.…”

Luke 24:2

A man and his five-year old son were driving past a cemetery and noticed a large pile of dirt next to a freshly dug grave when the little boy said, “Look, Dad, one got out!”  Every Easter, we come to celebrate the central aspect of Christianity.  The foundation of the Christians faith is the empty tomb.  The truth is that the grave could not hold Him.  The stone was rolled away not to let Jesus out, but to let all those in the garden tomb in to be witness that Jesus had risen.   In 1901 Abraham Lincoln’s casket was opened because it was feared that his body was not there. Christ’s tomb was opened to prove He is not there.  Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die (physically), he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.  Do you believe this?” (John 11) Because Christ died and rose, we can have the hope of heaven.  Our bodies will cease to function one day, but there is life beyond the grave (1 Corinthians 15:54–55).  Christ’s resurrection guarantees that all of His followers will be resurrected as well.  Because Jesus rose, we too will rise. He promised, “Because I live, you also will live”  (John 14:19).  If you have put your faith in the risen Lord, then you will live again. You no longer need to fear death. Because He came back in a resurrected body, He has given us the assurance that God will give each of us a glorified body one day.  Next time you drive past a cemetery, think of the One Whom the grave could not hold.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays at 8:30am and 10:30am, Wednesdays at 7:30pm at Clara Barton Elementary 7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale. http://www.CalvaryEastvale.org.

Pastor’s Corner: The Cross

“Then He came and touched the open coffin, and those who carried him stood still…”


Luke 7:14 
Photo Courtesy: Pexels

By Pastor Dennis Morales

There is no arguing that one of the most painful occurrences in life is losing a loved one.  Jesus came upon a widow who had just lost her only son.  .  According to old Jewish custom, the women would precede a funeral procession because women were believed to have brought death into the world in the line of Eve.  This widow would be the first person He would see and He looked at her with compassion (Luke 7:13).  It was custom for family members and friends to come and touch the coffin, which would halt the procession, and say a few words of comfort to the survived. Then the procession would continue.  According to custom, Jesus stood at the procession and touched the coffin.  Jesus tells the woman “do not weep.”  He then tells the young man in the coffin to “get up.”  “So that he who was dead sat up and began to speak” (Luke 7:15).  What Jesus did was unprecedented.   Under normal circumstances the funeral procession would have continued.  But when Jesus stopped the funeral procession, and it never continued!  Jesus essentially stopped death in its tracks.  This is what Jesus has done for all mankind through the Cross.  He has halted the effect of sin and eternal death upon all those who believe in Him (Jn 3:16).  Jesus’ death on the Cross defeated sin and He further punctuates this by His Rising from the dead.  In this is the Easter message.  (1 Corinthians 15:21-22, 55-57)   Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am/Wednesdays 7pm @ Clara Barton Elementary (calvaryeastvale.org).  EASTER SERVICES:  Good Friday @ 7pm and Easter @ 9:30am

Tax Time

Pastor Dennis Morales of Calvary Chapel Eastvale

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth…” Luke 2:1-5

I ran across a quote that read “IRS auditor to taxpayer, as nurse prepares a syringe: “She is going to numb the area around your wallet.”  In most cases, when we hear the word tax, our minds do go to our wallets.   It was no accident that Dr. Luke mentioned the name of Caesar Augustus. This man signed a tax bill that the whole world (of that day) be taxed. He needed money to raise an army to control his vast empire and to live in luxury himself. 

It was prophesied that Jesus would be born in Bethlehem of the house and lineage of King David (Micah 5:2) 700 years before.  Mary and Joseph resided in Nazareth.  At the very time for Mary to give birth, all were summoned to the house of their ancestry for the census (Luke 2:1-5).  All who were of the lineage of David were to visit Bethlehem.  Both Mary and Joseph are of the lineage of David, so both had to go to Bethlehem.

Precisely according to Bible prophecy, and God’s sovereignty, Mary gave birth to Jesus in Bethlehem (Matthew 1:21-23, Isaiah 7:14 prophesied 800 years before). Such an event rooted deeply in prophesy and is proven that man could not orchestrate something of this magnitude. 

Joy came to the world in miraculous fashion.  This was a taxation time in history where we look back at the and its forever linked to our hearts, not our wallet.  God orchestrated when the Messiah, Jesus, was to be born into this world to save mankind from sin and instill hope forever into all who believe.  He did this for you.   

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at Clara Barton Elementary in Eastvale.  Services are held Sundays at 8:30 and 10:30am.  Wednesdays at 7pm.   Celebrate Christmas with us on December 23.

Pastor Dennis Morales

Pastor’s Corner: Things That Matter

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, Ihave kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7

Paul the Apostle is nearing the end of his life.  He is contemplating the things God had called him to accomplish.  This is his swansong.  I am immediately impressed with the confidence with which he is able to say “I finished.”  It’s been said that “a wasted life is really nothing more than a collection of wasted days. As God gives us life, each one of us starts the new year with the same number of opportunities—365—that we can choose to either use and invest in eternal things or allow to drift by without taking advantage of the gift we have been given.”  I was walking through a cemetery after afuneral service and my eye caught a headstone that read “a life stillunfinished.”  We would naturally say thatabout anyone that had passed from this world at a young age, but this wassomeone who passed at 78!  I don’t wantto come to the end and think of all the things I should have done or the ways Ishould have stepped out in faith.  Paulcalls life a “race.”  My favorite racesin the Olympics are the sprints.  Theseraces are literally over in seconds, but I am always impressed with the amazingspeed of the athletes.  The race referredto by Paul is likened to a “long distance” run. A long distance run takes faith, endurance, and focus.  Jesus “for the joy that was set before Himendured the cross, despising the shame.” (Hebrews 12:2).  God calls us to focus and invest in thingsthat matter so that we might finish well. 


Calvary Chapel Eastvale Meets Wednesdays at 7pm and Sundays at 8:30 and10:30 am  at Clara Barton Elementary 7437Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale. 

Growing

By Dennis Morales

1 Corinthians 3:1 “I couldn’t talk to you as…spiritual people…”

 

My two boys have just moved up another grade in school.  It’s really hard to assimilate sometimes in my parental cortex, but they are growing.  I couldn’t be happier that they are growing and healthy.  Paul spoke to an audience dealing with stunted growth, not in a physical sense, but a spiritual sense.  People had told us prior to our sons being born; don’t talk baby talk, because it will affect their maturity and speech.  When Paul spoke to the Corinthian church, he said that he couldn’t speak in spiritual terms because they were still spiritual babies.  They should have grown or progressed, but they were immature.  They should have passed up the milk and gone on toward food that requires you to sink your teeth into it.  Paul says that immaturity was evident because of the things that were happening among them like strife, divisiveness, immorality, and envy (1Corinthians 3:3).  Their behavior didn’t change, and they weren’t maturing.   Unfortunately, many people have never grown up spiritually. They made an initial commitment to follow Christ but have never really understood what it means to be committed in following Jesus.  Saying a prayer of commitment to Jesus is not all a Christian life is.  Jesus becomes Lord and you begin to understand what it means for Him to lead your life.  Spiritual growth should not just be Christian radio listening to sermons or music but cutting into your own food.  We need to learn how to feed ourselves the spiritual food.  Your foundation starts with your Bible.  The Bible is likened to bread (Matthew 4:4), meat (Hebrews 5:11-14), and even Honey (Ps 119:103).  As we take steps closer to God, we experience His goodness, grace and glory in our lives in new ways.  Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at Clara Barton Elementary in Eastvale.  Services are held Sundays at 8:30 and 10:30am. Wednesdays at 7pm. 

 

Where He Leads

By Pastor Dennis Morales

Be strong and of good courage…for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”  – Joshua 1:9

The children of Israel were ready to cross the Jordan into the Promise Land, but there was one thing in their way, the Jordan.  It was Harvest and it was a torrent of rushing water and virtually impassible (Joshua 3:15).  God instructed Joshua that they were to cross regardless.  God added He will be with them and He would make the Jordan passable.  In a “step of faith,” the priests were instructed to go first and to take the Ark of the Covenant and start the process.  God said when the feet of the priests dip in the edge of the water that the waters would part.  So God lead them and parted the waters the moment the priests dipped their feet in the water just as He said He would.  God also told the priests to stand on the dry river bed until every last person had crossed.  Why?  The Ark of the Covenant stands as a reminder of God’s presence.  He wanted the people to know He was with them as they passed through the waters.  Where is God leading you?  Does it seem difficult or impossible?  Remember wherever God leads you, He will be with you.  Daniel was lead to the Lion’s den as a result of his faithfulness to God but God shut the mouths of the Lions.  Jesus told His disciples “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20).  God reminds His people in Scripture “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).  God’s strength is realized in allowing God’s leading.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am, Wednesdays at 7pm at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale).  Visit their website at www.calvaryeastvale.org.

 

Empty Is Good

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“And certain of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but Him they did not see.”  Luke 24:24

There was a city where a building wall collapsed because the foundation caved into an empty tomb-it was unknown and hidden when they built it. Now if the men intentionally built a building with a hole as a foundation they would be fools. When we look at God and His ability to “hang the earth upon nothing” we think differently. The church as we know it has a foundation that is in fact the empty tomb. If His tomb hadn’t been emptied there wouldn’t have been any hope. The empty tomb gives us assurance that Jesus is who He said He is. Jesus “was declared the Son of God (with power) by the resurrection from the dead” (Rom 1:4). The empty tomb is proof of acceptance of Jesus’ sacrifice for all mankind (Rom 5:18).   The empty tomb means death is defeated. There is now no death for those who are in Christ Jesus! “Where, O death is your victory? Where, O death is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ”(1 Cor. 15:51-57).  Because of the empty tomb, you and I, by faith in Him, have life today and life forever!  He is risen!  SPECIAL EASTER SERVICES:  Good Friday at 6pm and a combined service on Easter Sunday at 9:30am with a Family BBQ following.  Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets regularly Sundays, 8:30am & 10:30am, and Wednesdays, 7:00pm at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale).  Visit their website at www.clavaryeastvale.org.

 

 

 

 

 

“His Way”

By Pastor Dennis Morales

““For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD.” Isaiah 55:8

My sons are 5yrs and 7yrs old.  They are the best of friends.  But even the best of friends can have disagreements sometimes.  I was watching my boys play a board game then all of sudden they started quarreling.  What were they quarreling about?  They were accusing each other of not playing correctly.  They both made the same argument.  What was it? “You have to play it my way!”  I think sometimes we are guilty of the same attitude when it comes to our decisions.   Naaman is a classic example in the Bible (2 Kings 5).  He was an army commander for the king of Syria.  His wife’s servant girl was led captive from Israel.  She suggested that he seek healing by consulting Elisha, the prophet.  Naaman was ready to do anything, but he didn’t want to go to Elisha, he wanted Elisha to go to him.  Because of his position, Naaman expected to be served.  Elisha sent Naaman instruction to bathe seven times in the Jordan River.  Naaman felt disrespected and refused at first, then later he humbled himself and went to the Jordan.  That is when Naaman found healing.  Naaman finally humbled himself and did things God’s way.  That’s when Naaman found healing.  How many times have you told God “I want to do it this way!”  But later we always find that His way is the best way.     “Selfish” pride should never be what guides us.  Humility seeks God’s ways (Psalm 25:9).  Though you may not always see the result in view, God’s ways make “better sense.” (Isaiah 55:9).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am, Wednesdays at 7pm at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale).  Visit their website at www.calvaryeastvale.org.

 

 

 

 

 

“The Finish”

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7

Paul the Apostle is nearing the end of his life. He is contemplating the things God had called him to accomplish. This is his swan song. I am immediately impressed with the confidence with which he is able to say “I finished.” It’s been said that “a wasted life is really nothing more than a collection of wasted days. As God gives us life, each one of us starts the new year with the same number of opportunities—365—that we can choose to either use and invest in eternal things or allow to drift by without taking advantage of the gift we have been given.” I was walking through a cemetery after a funeral service and my eye caught a headstone that read “a life still unfinished.” We would naturally say that about anyone that had passed from this world at a young age, but this was someone who passed at 78! I don’t want to come to the end and think of all the things I should have done or the ways I should have stepped out in faith. Paul calls life a “race.” My favorite races in the Olympics are the sprints. These races are literally over in seconds, but I am always impressed with the amazing speed of the athletes. The race referred to by Paul is likened to a “long distance” run. A long distance run takes faith, endurance, and focus. Jesus “for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame.” (Hebrews 12:2). God calls us to focus and invest in things that matter so that we might finish well.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am, Wednesdays at 7pm at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale). Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.

“Our Everything”

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”Psalm 18:2

David, the author of this Psalm, writes eight titles referencing God and His reliability.  He experienced God’s hand of protection and deliverance from his enemies and now David is worshipping God for His faithfulness during battle.  I’m sure David sang often in battle.  I heard it once said a young boy was trying to pull a large weed from his front yard.  Suddenly, the weed came out, root and all, and the boy was thrown back and fell in the process.

A man happened to be passing by and replied to the young boy, “That sure was a hard pull!”  The boy replied, “It sure is tough when you have the whole world pulling against you.”  We can all feel what this boy said at times.   The cares and concerns of the “pulling world” have a way of fading away in God’s presence.  Pressures, demands, deadlines, and failures are no match for the reliability of God.   He strengthens you when you are at your weakest point (2 Corinthians 12:9).  David rejoiced that God was everything he needed to get through the most difficult of situations.   When the battle rages or the world pulls, it takes strong faith to worship.  But as you worship, you will find the One supplying the strength to worship is your “stronghold.”  God is closer than you think and He is “able to supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus”  (Phil 4:19).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am, Wednesdays at 7pm at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale).