*Volume 111 *No. 05 *Published by Christian Triumph Co. *Permit # 695 *MAY 2009
Contents: The Best Life The Good Life A Future Filled With Promise Surrender by Jo One More Mountain A Mother’s Story A Look at the Book of Matthew CT NEWS and Passing of the Blessing
1 2 3 4 5 5 6 7
The BEST Life A rephrased but true story
Many years ago, a lovely, young woman stood looking over her Paradise, enjoying the “Best Life.” Her world was filled with light and warmth from the sun as sparkling water teemed nearby with brilliant fish and other curious life-forms. Spectacular birds flew high across the expanse of the sky while livestock, wild animals, and many other interesting creatures peacefully moved upon the land. Each had its own kind and ate the healthy green plants for food. There was no predatory, aggressive behavior- one towards another. There was no death! In Paradise - every tree had fruit with seed in it and was delicious to eat. ↑
Rain had yet to fall; instead streams came up from the earth and watered its whole surface. As well, there was a river flowing through this beautiful land called Home. *This unique river separated into four headwaters and their names were: Pishon – a water which flowed through a land where there was gold – aromatic resin (pearls), and onyx. Gihon which wound through Cush (possibly southeast Mesopotamia); Tigris – which ran along the east side of Asshur; and the fourth river - Euphrates. Never has there been a land so rich and delightful! *(Charles Swindoll’s Study Bible) The young woman (our Mother Eve) and her husband were the caretakers of this perfect, Garden Home. Indeed they lived the “Best Life.” Often, their Creator visited with them as He walked in the garden in the cool of day. They enjoyed meaningful, sweet conversation with Him. Adam and Eve were the most fortunate of people! In protecting them, God spoke distinctly of a tree that must not be touched, “the tree of the knowledge of good and evil,” for in eating from it, one would experience… Death. (Page 2)
Her innocence changed to guilt as her eyes opened to shame, and soon her life became torn by pain, sin and death. Adam and Eve’s fall not only hurt them but also left their descendants without hope. Only God could lead (us) now to the - GOOD LIFE! As descendants of Mother Eve, we each one have tasted of the fruit of good and evil. (…for all have sinned and come short of the Glory of God.) And yet God has given us a Savior who never labels us as “sinners.” Instead, He offers us His love and forgiveness which guides us to the Good Life. Even in this altered world, we can “overcome” and enjoy peace and a promise of His empowering Spirit. Death will not defeat us! As God’s forgiven Children, we will simply change bodies (and addresses) and will once again live - THE BEST LIFE!
- And then, into this beautiful Paradise came a deceitful, self-seeking being. He was cleverer than any other living creature and, most likely, handsome as he easily pretended to be astonished: “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden?’” Shaking her head “No,” Mother Eve replied firmly: “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden!” Oh, the “Deceiver” must have liked her fiery spirit! She was challenging! Mother Eve continued innocently: “…but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’” The striking creature winked at her as he laughed heartily and with reassuring confidence, he replied: “You will not surely die…for God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” And there - even in her “Best Life,” Eve considered for a moment his fateful words: maybe it wouldn’t hurt to just take another look. The fruit was indeed beautiful and there was much she didn’t know about it! Maybe just a little taste would be enough, and the experience would answer her questions; it would provide wisdom, knowledge and maybe even more happiness. Mother Eve could not believe such a tiny thing would hurt! The creature seemed so intelligent and wise; surely he could be trusted. Impulsively, Eve reached for the fruit and took a bite! Immediately! Mother Eve’s world was completely and forever altered!
Faith Messenger Permit #695 Periodical Paid at Corpus Christi, Texas Published monthly, except July and August. POSTMASTER SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO:
Christian Triumph Company P.O. Box 5187 905-909 Bluntzer Corpus Christi, Texas 78405 L.Y. Janes, Founder (deceased); Israel Hernandez, President; William Anderson, Vice-President; Fred Pena, 2nd Vice-President; Diana Beletic, Secretary/Treasurer; Una Collins, Asst. Sec./Treas. This periodical is issued without charge in the name of the Lord Jesus to help inspire child-like faith and maintain Christ-like simplicity among the people of God. To send donations or for your FREE SUBSCRIPTION, write to the address above or contact Christian Triumph Co. at christiantriumph@yahoo.com. Or see us on the web at christiantriumphcompany.com
2
Him in Heaven. He loves us so much that He laid down his life so that we might have life abundantly. And this is how I know about God’s love: When I was sixteen, I became involved in a relationship that caused me to fall and to become separated from God; the relationship lasted for two and one-half years and by the time it was over, I felt that all my faith had gone and I was filled with guilt. About a month later, I started working at a Christian camp and during one of the worship services, I fell to my knees and cried for over a half an hour. During that time I asked for forgiveness and a second (more like a third or fourth) chance. I told God that I would do better this time, live life the best I could, if He would only give me another chance. Thankfully, it has been almost four years since that night, and I have never looked back. God and Jesus forgave me that very moment, and I was back “into the flock!” That does not mean, however, that I am perfect and never make mistakes; I make plenty. But now, the difference is I know there is “hope” and purpose to this life. As well, I am fully dedicated to discovering just what wonderful plan God has for me. I have a future filled with promise and blessings that was not there before. Most importantly, I have an eternal purpose that makes life worth living! In answer to my friend’s question: “Doesn’t it all seem a bit childish? The concept of Heaven and Hell and the whole ‘You must follow Him or you will go to Hell thing,’” my answer is: “No, it is not childish; in fact there is nothing more real, more ‘mature’ than what Jesus did for us on the cross. And I believe in Him, not out of fear, but because I choose to and because I want to see Him and spend eternity with Him! There is no greater love than the love of Jesus.” -Felicia
A FUTURE FILLED WITH PROMISE I have grown up in church my entire life. I cannot say my attendance was consistent but yet rather an ever present underlining to my life. In fact, I thought that I was a strong Christian, loved God and would follow Him until the end of my days. I couldn’t have been more wrong. A couple of years back I was talking to a friend who had decided that she did not want to follow God anymore. In asking her “Why?” I will never forget her response. As she answered, she replied with this question: “Doesn’t it all seem a bit childish…I mean - this concept of Heaven and Hell and the whole ‘You must follow Him or you will go to Hell thing?’ It is all so childish!” At that moment, I had no response and even lacked the knowledge of how to answer such a profound question. That was almost two years ago and my friend’s question has burned in my mind ever since. I have thought much about it and have come up with some “good” answers but none that really have substance. Today, God showed me the answer to that question. It is found in John, chapter 10 in the story of the Good Shepherd, “I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep.” (Verses 14-15). In this scripture, Jesus says five times that He is laying His life down for His sheep. He tells us plainly that He is the door that the sheep must enter, and if they do, they will find eternal life, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (Verse 10). As I read through this chapter I realized that there is absolutely nothing childish about God, Jesus, Heaven, or Hell. In actuality, it is “us” who are uninformed and lack faith. While many people continued to question His identity, Jesus gave His life on a cruel cross and suffered the most brutal form of death at that period in time. He endured massive persecution, torture, ridicule, and the rejection of God His Father when He took upon Himself “our” sins. He did all this for you and for me so that one day we may live with
Feel Like a Failure? Disappointed your SELF lately? So have we all! There is an interesting story about Simon Peter in the book of Luke, chapter 22. (Continued- pg. 4) 3
(Continued from page 3) Jesus was preparing for His crucifixion, and He turned to Peter and said, “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon that your faith may not fail.” Simon Peter was certain that he would never fail Jesus, and he cried, “Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death!” These genuine words came from a heart filled with love for His Master and Friend. History and witnesses determined, however, that when Jesus was arrested and taken to the high priest, Peter followed at a distance and eventually denied even knowing Jesus, not one time but – three. Without a doubt, Jesus knew that Peter would fail! And so, in love, Jesus prepared him for that moment of despair. Jesus continued his conversation with Peter in Luke 22:32, “But I have prayed for you, Simon that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Jesus did not condemn Peter for failing; instead He encouraged and strengthened him so that he would “try again.”
SURRENDER God requires true surrender, and in order for us to meet this requirement, adjustments may be needed in our daily life, such as in our vocation, location, or other circumstances. In Matthew 4:18-22, there is an example of adjustment and surrender. This scripture describes Jesus walking by the sea. When He saw Peter and his brother Andrew fishing, Jesus spoke to them, “Follow Me, I will make you fishers of men.” They did as requested. Further on, Jesus met two more brothers, James and John, who were fishing with their father. Jesus called out to these two brothers, “Follow me!” James and John left their nets, their father and followed Jesus. Many times, we may need to surrender in our thinking as well as in our comfort zone. Acts 10 tells us of another adjustment. Cornelius, a Gentile, a devout man who feared God and gave alms to the poor, prayed to God always. In a vision an angel appeared to him and said, “Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.” Then the angel told him to send for Peter of Joppa and Peter would tell him what he should do. The following day in Joppa, Peter went to his roof to pray and also experienced a vision. “He saw heaven opened and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. It contained all kinds of four-footed animals, as well as reptiles of the earth and birds of the air. Then a voice told him, ‘Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.’” “‘Surely not, Lord!’ Peter replied. ‘I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.’” “The voice spoke to him a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’ This happened three times, and immediately the sheet was taken back to Heaven.” God was helping Peter adjust to a new way for it had always been unlawful for a Jew to associate with a Gentile or visit him. And now, God required Peter to go to the home of Cornelius and share the Gospel with him, his family and friends. Peter arrived in Caesarea and began to share God’s message in Cornelius’ home: “God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear Him and do what is right… (Continued on Page 5)
Failures are only stumbling blocksto everlasting victory. John tells us in chapter 21 that Jesus later reinstated Peter with these words, “‘Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?’ ‘Yes, Lord,’ he said, ‘you know that I love you.’ Jesus said, ‘Feed my lambs.’”
Triumph! Never give up!
4
(Continued from Page 4) God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power and everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins through His name…” God sent the Holy Spirit to Cornelius and the other Gentiles, and they were baptized with water in the Name of Jesus Christ. So we too must follow God’s Word, adjusting and surrendering to God’s plan for our lives. edited Love in Christ Jesus, JO
MOTHERS Mothers are wonderful! God bless our mothers!
A MOTHER’S STORY
Christian Trium ph w ill m iss hearing from D aisy L. She has now gone to be w ith her Lord and is safe in H is arm s. D aisy is H om e! Thank you, G od, for D aisy.
I stumbled through tragedy and sorrow! Only the Lord knew how to guide me. Because of serious complications, the doctors said that I needed surgery, and so it was; but no one will ever know the grief that resulted. Rather than face life without children, my husband and I decided to adopt, but at the last, we changed our mind. I can truthfully say that God had another plan. He never fails! Looking back over the many years, I remember the little children who came to live with us. We were foster parents to 20 children, numerous others, part time. A family of five children stayed the longest in our care. We were connected with them about 16 years; they still enjoy coming back to our home for family reunions. Each one finished high school and some sought higher education. Another family of three girls was with us five years, and it was hard to see them go. A family member who lived near, but had never been to see them in all the time we had them, received custody of them. We were involved with three more girls for about six years. One of them went to a year-round special school in another state; she would be there six weeks and then fly back to us for school break. We made many trips to the airport to pick her up and then send her back. We still are doing our best even now to help her. When the law changed in our state regarding foster children (the children are not to be out of their home more than a year), we then received child after child for short term care. I have so many fond memories of my children, and I enjoy sharing them with others. - Anita
ONE MORE MOUNTAIN I've climbed quite a few mountains in my time, And passed through some valleys along the way. But there's one more mountain that I must climb E'er I reach the land of eternal day. From a distance the peak seemed so very steep, But since I'm this near, I think I can make it. So, on the goal my eyes I must keep; I've come too far on the journey to quit. Yes, there's one more mountain that still lies ahead, And I must scale it e'er I lie down to sleep. Then, on that glad day when its summit I tread, I'll be with my Lord, so for me please don't weep. --Byrum C. Lee 03/2007 5
“Giving” requires a Godly attribute: unconditional love. It is difficult to know how to – give - for, in fact, in giving we may enable another’s demise through addictions, etc. In Barclay’s writings, there is a story about a man who bailed out week-end drunks from the police station and then asked each one to return the money out of his next week’s wages. This was an attempt in teaching responsibility but it was also an effort to control another’s behavior. (an often frustrating motive for giving) Some persons “give to get” and if there is no publicity or praise, he or she is dissatisfied. As mentioned in past FM issues, we often hear of benevolent persons desiring to keep their “names in lights.” (even in religious institutions) And yet, a “changed heart” simply gives because of God’s overflowing love. A Christian merely wants to share and freely give even when money, time, or food is scarce. I remember my grandmother who lived on very little money; yet when I visited her as a youth, she would walk to the store and buy soft drinks for us. And in older age, she would prepare a little can of soup for my family’s lunch with a few chips on saucers. She often sent offerings to evangelists as well as giving money to the church. She worked long hours making quilts for the Indian Mission and sent boxes of clothes and other items. Never did I hear my grandmother complain about “giving.” And never did I know of a time she was celebrated for her acts of kindness. In fact, she went to Heaven as a humble servant of God with a pure heart that required no recognition from others. God has given us so much. It is true joy to give back to Him by helping others, and yet we need the empowering of the Holy Spirit to purify our motives as we find our full reward in Him.
A LOOK AT THE BOOK OF MATTHEW SERMON ON THE MOUNT Chapter 5 (Reference for this study comes from the Holy Bible as well as the book, The Gospel of Matthew, Volume 1 By William Barclay) Matthew Matt. 6:2-4 “So, when you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by men. This is the truth I tell you—they are paid in full. But when you give alms, your left hand must not know what your right hand is doing, so that your almsgiving may be in secret, and your Father who sees what happens in secret will give you your reward in full.” Jesus spoke these words and then He lived them before us! It is in Him, we find the perfect example of selfless “giving.” Paul the apostle writes of Jesus, “Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.” (II Corinthians 8:9) Another translation of this verse states: “You know how full of love and kindness our Lord Jesus was: though He was so very rich, yet to help you He became so very poor, so that by being poor He could make you rich.” The study of “Christian Love” throughout Matthew teaches us that our actions must come from a changed heart - an experience of rebirth and an infilling of the Holy Spirit. Truthfully, giving (alms) from a loving heart instead of from a sense of duty or personal motives is challenging for the best of us. Even “religion” fails to achieve perfection of mind and spirit when we share our valued time and earthly possessions with others. As well, most of us have little understanding of one in need because we have never walked in his shoes, and we stay much too busy to share the experience.
JUNE FAITH MESSENGER: Matt. 6: 5-8
Thanks to all our readers. W e appreciate each one of you. 6
Christian Triumph Mission News
First Church of God – El Campo Participates in “Passing of the Blessing” ceremonies
A wonderful day of worship and fun was held on Easter Sunday. Little children came expecting the best, and they got it! For breakfast, they ate K. Kreme Donuts and for lunch hot dogs with chili. Diana found a sale of stuffed toy doggies so each child received his/her very own. There were sixteen or more very happy children! The precious Word of God was presented to the children and adults & the Lord blessed the day! Sadly, the home of a grandmother of several of the girls burned recently, and Christian Triumph Church mission is gathering items to help refurnish another house. This grandmother does not attend the worship services; she only brings the children. Please pray that God’s love, shown by the church, will touch her heart and change her life. Some of the items provided by Jo’s family and friends in San Antonio, Texas, will help support this effort. Mothers’ Day at the mission church will find smiling faces! Vitalina, Elena, and others will prepare a delicious turkey dinner for those who are fortunate enough to attend the worship services. More news: Two more students joined the local Bible Institute which is scheduled to continue until the end of the year. God’s Word through tracts, periodicals, Bibles, and other literature continues to be sent! The other ministries - including the Spanish Bible Correspondence courses are vibrant and exciting. The English Bible correspondence courses are in the process of being developed, and we ask for your prayers in that great ministry and responsibility. As mentioned before, these courses will be ready to send to those who request them in the month of September 2009. THANKS to each one of you who help with this life-changing ministry. We are so grateful for your letters and prayers. The Lord bless you and supply all your needs, according to His Word.
The congregation of the First Church of God, El Campo, Texas, gathered Easter Sunday to participate in a “Passing of the Blessing” ceremony as the Rev. Howard Middleton called the heads of each family to the altar to be anointed and “blessed.” They in turn anointed their family members and passed down blessings upon them, who repeated the process until each member present was “blessed” and anointed. Members also witnessed the dedication of Layla Rayne Roddy and the re-dedication of her brothers, Payton and Michael, by parents Craig and Lori Roddy. The congregation gathered in the Fellowship Hall immediately following services for a catered meal and fellowship. The Hall was decorated in the “Tiny Blessings from God” theme with pink table covers adorned with porcelain crosses, tiny Easter baskets and flowers. A cross cake was the center piece on the main table. After the meal, children of the church gathered outside for an Easter egg hunt. (June Faith Messenger: Pictures) -Sherry Roddy
NEW MINISTRY Christian Triumph will begin offering English Bible Correspondence Courses in September of 2009. There will be no cost. The courses will be available for each and every person in all walks of life. If needed, Bibles will be provided. Please send name and address if you wish to begin the course in September. Please send to: Christian Triumph PO Box 5187, 905 Bluntzer, Corpus Christi, TX 78465-5187 Attn: English courses
LETTERS From Juanita – God bless you for the work you do & have done through the years. God will prevail! 7
Faith Messenger A publication of Christian Triumph Company P.O. Box 5187 905 Bluntzer Corpus Christi, TX 78465
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid Corpus Christi, Texas Permit # 695
Address Service Requested
Jesus We all, like sheep Have gone astray, Each of us Has turned to his own way; And the Lord has laid on Him The iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53: 6
8
9
10