Calvary Chapel of the Cumberland Valley

06/19/2026

𝐃𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐔.𝐒.-𝐈𝐫𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐈𝐬𝐫𝐚𝐞𝐥 𝐕𝐮𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞? ​

Recent reports indicate that the United States and Iran have reached a framework agreement aimed at ending the current conflict and restoring stability in the Middle East. The agreement reportedly includes sanctions relief, the reopening of maritime routes, and a commitment to further negotiations concerning Iran's nuclear program. While many are celebrating the possibility of peace, others are asking a more troubling question: Could this agreement leave Israel increasingly vulnerable? And if so, could it further set the stage for the events described in Ezekiel 38–39?
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Christians should be careful not to force current events into biblical prophecy. At the same time, Jesus rebuked those who failed to discern the signs of the times (Matthew 16:3). While we cannot claim certainty, developments in the Middle East deserve thoughtful attention.

𝐀 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 ​
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Although details remain disputed and some provisions are still being negotiated, reports suggest that the agreement would ease pressure on Iran while leaving significant questions unresolved regarding its long-term military ambitions, ballistic missile programs, and regional proxy networks. Critics have warned that the deal could ultimately strengthen Iran's strategic position in the region.

Some reports also indicate disagreements over how the agreement affects Israel's freedom to operate against Iranian-backed forces in Lebanon and elsewhere. While U.S. officials insist Israel retains the right to defend itself, Israeli leaders and commentators have expressed concerns that the agreement may constrain Israel while providing Iran with economic and diplomatic benefits.

If these concerns prove valid, Israel could find itself increasingly isolated at a time when its enemies are regrouping and rearming.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐳𝐞𝐤𝐢𝐞𝐥 𝟑𝟖–𝟑𝟗
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Ezekiel 38–39 describes a future invasion of Israel led by "Gog" from the land of Magog and joined by a coalition that includes Persia, Cush, Put, Gomer, and Beth Togarmah. Of particular interest is the inclusion of Persia. Unlike many ancient nations whose names have changed beyond recognition, Persia is the historical nation known today as Iran.

Ezekiel describes a time when Israel is dwelling securely and living without apparent concern for invasion: "You will say, 'I will go up against a land of unwalled villages; I will go to a peaceful people, who dwell safely.'" (Ezekiel 38:11)

Many prophecy students have long wondered what circumstances could create such a sense of security. Could diplomatic agreements, international guarantees, or perceived regional stability contribute to such conditions? Scripture doesn’t say, but it is certainly possible.

𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐭?
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History repeatedly demonstrates that peace agreements often provide only temporary stability. In fact, some of the greatest conflicts have emerged after periods of diplomatic optimism.

If the current agreement results in reduced military pressure on Iran while allowing it to recover economically and politically, it could eventually contribute to a stronger regional coalition aligned against Israel. Critics of the agreement have specifically warned that sanctions relief and increased financial resources could enhance Iran's ability to project power throughout the Middle East.

Again, this doesn’t mean Ezekiel 38 is being fulfilled today. However, it may represent another step in the geopolitical realignment that could eventually make such a coalition possible.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬
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One of the remarkable features of Ezekiel's prophecy is the coalition itself. The nations listed encompass territories that today correspond broadly to Russia, Iran, Turkey, Libya, Sudan, and regions north of Israel.

Over the past several years, observers have noted shifting alliances throughout the Middle East, with nations pursuing strategic partnerships based on economic interests, military cooperation, and opposition to Israeli influence. While the final coalition described by Ezekiel has not yet fully emerged, the pieces continue to move into place. What was difficult to envision a century ago appears increasingly plausible today.

𝐆𝐨𝐝'𝐬 𝐒𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐭𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥
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It’s important to remember that Ezekiel 38–39 isn’t ultimately about military strategy or international diplomacy, but it’s about God's glory. Repeatedly throughout these chapters, God declares that He will act so that the nations will know that He is the Lord. The invading coalition doesn’t succeed because God Himself intervenes dramatically and supernaturally on Israel's behalf.

It’s also important to remember that the focus of prophecy is never to produce fear but faith. As believers, our confidence isn’t in political leaders, military alliances, or diplomatic agreements. Our confidence rests in the sovereign God who declares the end from the beginning and who will accomplish all His purposes.

𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
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The current U.S.-Iran agreement may or may not prove significant in the prophetic timeline. No one can say with certainty. What we can say is that it appears to strengthen a nation specifically identified in Ezekiel's prophecy while raising concerns among many regarding Israel's future security.

For students of Bible prophecy, that reality should encourage vigilance, not sensationalism; discernment, not dogmatism. The stage may be moving closer to the conditions Ezekiel described, but the curtain hasn’t yet risen on the final act. Until then, we’re called to watch, pray, proclaim the gospel, and live in confident expectation of the Lord's return.

Maranatha!

06/13/2026

Come join us!

06/13/2026

06/08/2026

We're grateful to report that power was restored to the church last evening. Thank you all for your patience, understanding, and flexibility as we navigated the unexpected disruption to our services yesterday. We know many of you adjusted your plans, and we appreciate the grace and encouragement that so many expressed throughout the day.

With power now restored, we are back on track for our regular Wednesday evening Bible study this week at 7:00 PM. And we're excited to move forward with the launch of our new Sunday morning schedule beginning next Sunday, with services at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. We look forward to gathering together again and worshiping as a church family.

Thank you again for your understanding during this unusual circumstance. We are thankful for the Lord's faithfulness and for each of you who make up our church family.

We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday evening and again on Sunday as you're able to join us!

06/07/2026

Unfortunately, the power to the church has still not been restored. In addition, there are trees lying across power lines near the church, making it clear that power will not be restored in time for us to hold service today. As such, we are cancelling our 11:00 AM service.
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While we're disappointed not to gather together this morning, we're thankful for God's protection through the storms and for the utility crews working tirelessly to restore power throughout our community.

We look forward to seeing you at our Midweek Bible Study this Wednesday at 7:00 PM, or at one of our two services next Sunday at 9:00 AM or 11:00 AM.

Thank you for your understanding, and may the Lord bless and encourage you today.

06/07/2026

While power has been restored to much of the Hagerstown area, the electricity at the church has not yet been restored. As a result, we are cancelling our 9:00 AM service this morning.

We will make a decision regarding our 11:00 AM service by 9:30 AM. Please stay tuned for that update before traveling to the church.

You can also check our website for the latest information and any changes.

Thank you for your patience and understanding. We appreciate your prayers for the utility crews as they continue working to restore power.

06/07/2026

IMPORTANT UPDATE: The severe storms that moved through the Hagerstown area this evening caused a widespread power outage. Potomac Edison is actively working to restore service, but at this time they are unsure of when power will be restored. Because of the uncertainty, we will make a decision regarding our 9:00 AM service by 7:00 AM tomorrow. A decision regarding our 11:00 AM service will be made by 9:30 AM. Before traveling to the church, check our website or our page for updates.

06/06/2026

Have you ever noticed how often God uses ordinary things to point us to extraordinary truths? Jesus pointed to seeds, sheep, vineyards, sparrows, and even the weather to teach spiritual lessons. Creation is filled with reminders of its Creator. And one of the most fascinating illustrations I've come across is the scarlet worm, sometimes called the tola worm.

Now, before we go any further, it's important to understand that we don't build doctrine on insects or nature stories. Our faith rests on the Word of God. But sometimes God allows us to see illustrations in creation that help us appreciate the truths of Scripture in a fresh way. And that is the case with the illustration I am about to share with you.

You see, the scarlet worm was known in the ancient world because it produced a rich crimson dye. This dye was highly prized and was used in many important applications, including the fabrics associated with Israel's worship. In fact, the Hebrew word tola is connected both with the worm itself and the scarlet color that came from it.

What makes this creature so interesting is its life cycle. When the female scarlet worm is ready to give birth, she attaches herself to a tree or wooden surface and remains there. Her offspring are protected beneath her body. As the young emerge, they receive life and nourishment from their mother. During this process, a crimson stain is left behind. Eventually, the mother dies, having given her life for her offspring. And then, according to the commonly shared illustration, after several days the crimson stain fades, and what remains appears as a white, flaky substance that can fall to the ground like snow.

Whether every popular detail that is often repeated about the scarlet worm is perfectly accurate or not, the imagery is certainly striking. In fact, what makes it even more remarkable is that in Psalm 22—a psalm that vividly describes the sufferings of the Messiah—we read these words: "But I am a worm, and no man; A reproach of men, and despised by the people." (Psalm 22:6)
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The Hebrew word translated "worm" in that Psalm, is tola.

Now think about that for a moment. Psalm 22 begins with the words Jesus Himself spoke from the cross: "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?"
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The psalm goes on to describe details of the crucifixion centuries before crucifixion was even practiced. Right in the middle of that passage, the suffering Messiah says, "I am a worm." Of all the words that could have been used, the Holy Spirit chose tola.

Folks, the parallels are difficult to miss.

The scarlet worm attaches itself to wood….Jesus was nailed to a wooden cross.

The scarlet worm gives its life for its offspring….Jesus gave His life for us.

The scarlet worm leaves behind a crimson stain….Jesus shed His precious blood for the forgiveness of sins.

The scarlet worm's sacrifice brings life to another generation….Christ's sacrifice brings eternal life to all who trust in Him.

And then there is that remarkable picture of scarlet becoming white. The prophet Isaiah wrote: "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Isaiah 1:18)

You see, our sins leave a stain that we cannot remove. They are scarlet before a holy God. Yet through the blood of Jesus Christ, God cleanses sinners and makes them white as snow. What was stained by sin is washed clean by grace.

The image of the scarlet worm leaving behind something white reminds us of that wonderful promise. The crimson stain points us to Christ's sacrifice; the white flakes remind us of the cleansing and forgiveness that His sacrifice provides.

What an amazing truth! The Gospel isn’t ultimately about what we do for God, but it’s all about what God has done for us through His Son. Jesus willingly laid down His life so that we could be forgiven, reconciled to God, and given eternal life.

When I think about the tola worm, I am reminded once again of the incredible love of Christ. Whether seen in the pages of Scripture or illustrated through the wonders of creation, the message remains the same: Jesus gave His life so that we might live.

As Jesus Himself said: "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends." (John 15:13)

06/05/2026

Adult Study…. Join us for fellowship and study of the Book of Roman’s at 6:30pm, Saturday 6th. This is a discussion style study. 12915 Pinehill Drive, Hagerstown.

05/30/2026

This week I found myself dealing with a frustrating RV water heater problem. The hot water had developed that unmistakable sulfur smell—the kind that makes you wonder what in the world is going on inside a tank you can't even see.

After some investigation, the culprit turned out to be the anode rod. It had done exactly what it was designed to do. Over time, it sacrificed itself to protect the water heater tank from corrosion. The rod was deteriorating, and in the process, it had contributed to the unpleasant odor that had developed in the system.

As I flushed the tank, replaced the rod, and watched clear, clean water begin flowing again, I couldn't help but think about how often the Christian life works the same way.

It's easy for things to accumulate in our hearts over time. Small compromises. Neglected prayer. Unforgiveness. Pride. Worldly influences. None of these usually happen overnight. Like sediment collecting in a water heater, they build up gradually until one day we realize something isn't quite right.

David understood this need for spiritual cleansing when he prayed: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting." (Psalm 139:23-24, NKJV)

One of the challenges of the Christian life is that we often cannot see what is happening beneath the surface. The outside may look fine. The RV water heater looked fine from the outside too. But inside, there was a problem that needed attention.

The Lord, in His grace, periodically brings us to moments of inspection. Through His Word, the conviction of the Holy Spirit, a sermon, a trial, or even a conversation with another believer, He reveals areas that need attention. And the answer isn't to ignore the problem and hope it goes away. The answer is to let the Lord do His cleansing work in us.

As 1st John 1:9 reminds us: "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (NKJV)

I also found it interesting that the anode rod was designed to sacrifice itself to protect something more valuable. In a much greater way, that points us to Jesus Christ. He willingly gave Himself so that we might be spared the judgment our sins deserve. His sacrifice brings cleansing, forgiveness, and new life.

Well, thankfully the RV water heater is working well again now. The smell is gone. The water is clear. But the experience left me with a reminder I'll probably think about every time I check that tank. Regular maintenance matters—not just for RVs, but for our walk with Christ.

Don't wait until the symptoms become obvious. Stay close to the Lord. Spend time in His Word. Keep short accounts with God. Invite Him to search your heart regularly. A little maintenance today can prevent a lot of problems tomorrow.