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Bethel Church of LeRoy, 303 N Mill Street, Le Roy, IL (2026)

05/22/2026

There is a powerful message to be garnered from Psalm 82..." God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods. How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the wicked?"

God , the supreme authority, stands in the middle of the mighty and he judges (along with) those assigned to be judges. Magistracy is a divine institution; and magistrates (judges) are God's delegates. Those that argue against the spiritual foundations of this nation as being Christian in function give no credence to history. From the Mayflower Pact to the formation of our Constitution, the wisdom and power of God to lead and protect has been a mainstay in the life of America. In just 250 years of existence, our leaders in congress and those who judge have forfeit the principles of God's justice in favor of man's wisdom. The chaos you see taking place today is the result of our presumptuous ignorance. You might say ignorance of what. The answer...when the wisdom of man takes control over something he does not own and assumes the authority to do as he pleases in spite of the One who does, bad things happen!

God is in control and He demands obedience to His righteous ways. Do you not see disobedience to God's will as a guarantee to failure? The desire of the natural man (those with no will to obey) are in direct conflict with the ways of peace. Obedience to the Law of God is the sure way for lasting peace. It is more than obvious that mankind is completely unable to maintain the peace God would have in place. It is just as obvious the covetous nature of human beings will never allow for such bliss to ever exist. Do I have to give you any examples? As such our Constitution allows for the formation of laws consistent with the laws of God in the hope that PENALTY and compliance to justice will prevail. Do you see that happening today?

Looking further into Psalm 82 we read..." Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked." Ps 82:3-4 This can only happen in one of two ways. 1) God intervenes, or 2) People vote those who support evil out of office. God does in fact eventually intervene for the sake of His creation (read Revelation...not good!) but for now it is up to the people. To put those wicked back in control will only exacerbate the chaos of today. Why? The will of the wicked does not change. The end result..." They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth (will continue) and are out of course." Ps 82:5. We as a nation have a choice to make; for God's sake and yours, make the right one! Pastor Mike...Seed Faith Ministries...Bethel Church of Leroy.

04/27/2026

I gave a message this past Sunday titled "Gloriously Dark." In light of today's secular climate, what do you see? Do you see and abundance of light or darkness? I see very little light in terms of mankind's relationship with each other. When will this evil it stop in favor of a permanent peace? I can see the finger pointing now! According to what I believe and preach as Pastor of Seed Faith Ministries, Bethel Church of Leroy...it is only going to get worse. How do I know this? Jesus says so!!

I can hear the taunts of the over zealous "God is love" crowd as I continue to write. Fact: God is love and He sacrificed His physical life for all of mankind because of that love. However, the God I serve is also a God of justice and wrath! Those of you who claim to be followers of Christ, have you ever heard of or been taught about the term "remedial" judgment? It is a term used to describe what should be an expected result, penalty if you will, for lack of discipline or self governance. If you believe as I do that God is in control of all human events, then I would ask you to pay attention to the following proclamation.

Our nation is suffering and has been suffering a Holy remedial judgment for numerous years. The lawlessness and deceit common place in our nation and the world today are the direct result of man's inablilty to seek a lasting peace and a repentant heart toward the will of God. As bad as it seems now, it is only going to get worse. If you are being taught to believe that mankind will eventually create a eutopia, or for that matter the church of Christ is going to lead the charge for a more peaceful co-existence, that's not going to happen! From the garden of Eden to present day such has not been nor ever will be the case! Without an appropriate reverential fear of the Sovereign Creator, no such progress will ever take place. The only world peace I am aware of will happen when Jesus returns to rule His Millennial Kingdom. If you have no clue as to what I am speaking of, and you attend church...get out of that church!

Question. Are you ready for this return of Jesus? I'll ask one step better. Are you anxious for and praying for His soon return in light of what is about to take place? Again, if you have no idea of what I am speaking, your pulpit has not been preaching the full counsel of God...not good! Time is growing short. The signs spoken of in scripture are prominent, Do not misunderstand me. I am not date setting, but the signs given in scripture were given for a reason. The birth of the nation Israel in May of 1948 started the countdown clock. In Christ's own words..." when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled." Matt 24:33-34. What is near? That would be the physical second coming of Christ to claim His kingdom, The generation that sees the convergence of all the Jesus warned about will be that generation. We are that generation!

However there is something else very important to understand. Jesus is coming back for His church as well. The "true church" is the restrainer mentioned in scripture. It is this church that forstalls the advent of the antichrist and the tribulation to come. Do you belong to that church? How do you feel about what has thus been proclaimed as the "gospel" truth so far. Has it upset or convicted you? I hope the latter is the case. Come Lord Jesus!

04/27/2026

Gloriously Dark

How could anything be gloriously dark? I heard this comment made during a discussion concerning "quips and quotes" spoken by well known evangelical pastors. As the discussion progressed I became even more intrigued. We all associate darkness with absence of light, at least we should from a biblical perspective. So why would a well known and respected pastor make this quote? (Adrien Rodgers)

According to the bible, something dark is synonymous with evil. Darkness existed before the light of creation (Gen 1:2). Since darkness was associated with the chaos that existed before the creation, it came to be associated with evil, bad luck, or affliction. Darkness was also equated with death. In SHEOL, the land of the dead, there is only darkness. Most importantly, darkness symbolizes man's ignorance of God's will and thus is associated with sinners; those who rebel against God's law. A good discription of a sinner comes from the book of Job. "They are those that rebel against the light; they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the paths thereof. The murderer rising with the light killeth the poor and needy, and in the night is as a thief. The eye also of the adulterer waiteth for the twilight, saying, No eye shall see me: and disguiseth his face. In the dark they dig through houses, which they had marked for themselves in the daytime: they know not the light." (Job 24:13-16).

So knowing this, was this pastor saying that being evil is glorious? Not hardly! If you stayed with the conversation long enough, you got the answer. It is a glorious answer...one that fills the heart with joy.

Prayer: Father. Sometimes we don't say thank You enough. The word today is simple to understand for those who wish to understand. I thank You for this congregation and their faithfulness. It is hoped that the word shared today will help to bring peace thru knowledge. Help us to except the truth of Your Word by faith and hope in the future thru promise. In Jesus name we pray and ask it. Amen

Scripture: 2 Tim 3:1 "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come."

Message
Our scripture reading declares that "perilous times" are coming. When? In the last days. In order to be prepared, the obvious question now is...when are the last days forecasted? Although we cannot be certain of the exact moment in time, Jesus does give us a hint as to major signs of those times.
"Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ (or His Word); and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom (ethnic group against ethnic group): and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows." Matt 24:4-8 For all these things must come to pass...but the end is not yet.

Let's go to the epistles and garner another word on the description of the end of days. This scripture compliments our text by better describing the nature of man just before the return of our Lord during these perilous times. "For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection (homos*xuals), trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, high minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away." 2 Tim 3:2-5 How many of these portraits do you see in todays' society?

So far I have brought nothing to this message that appears glorious, or have I? Did you catch it? These dark occurances must take place..when?..."just before the return of our Lord." Jesus and His Apostles have shown us what to expect just before He returns!! "Behold, I have told you before." Matt 24:25 There it is ! The glorious return of Christ for His church and His saints. The problem...bad things have to take place to pave the way. ( I feel it necessary to warn against the teaching that the church is going to pave the way for Christ's return. The church and the word of God warn us of His return. Man's evil determines the timing)

Let's solidify the emphasis on perilous times even further. 2 Thess 2:3
"Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day (what day? Christs' return) shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition." Now understand, there are seven years of tribulation prophecied before Christ's imminent return. It is during this period of time the antichrist reigns supreme. Mass destruction and death unprecedented since the beginning of time and as Jesus says, "such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be." Matt 24:21 Dark days indeed.

What is your conscience telling you? Do you believe we are living in the times prophesied by the Lord of creation? How much evidence do you need? Look at the violence and immorality that exists in our country alone. No wonder the Islamists call us big Satan! Just another thought. Isn't it interesting that the only religion being attacked today seems to be Christianity? All other religions are tolerated. Why? Satan knows as I can confirm, "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." Acts 4:12 Do you think Satan cares about false faith? I guarantee you he will be tolerant, especially to those fundamentalists who are carrying out his wishes for death and destruction. If you don't see this, perhaps you are walking in error.

Christiantiy has lost ground to self worship, "for men shall be lovers of their own selves"; their own desires versus the will of God. Who cares what the bible says is the war cry of the defiant! Satan couldn't agree more. Stalwart Christians are caving in to false doctrines and human wisdom. Sympathy abounds for the homos*xual who pleads the case of genderism. They declare that desire for the same s*x is not a sin, and that it is a moral right to adhere to the gender they wish to be. It is here we see the battle of science versus self will; DNA versus blaspheming pride in self indulgence. In science, a chromosome exists that does not allow this poor individual to determine whether or not they are a male or a female. Have our minds drifted that far from the truth?

Apparently so. The bible calls it rebellion. Rebellion brings disaster. Someone told me this type of rebellion is called Leopard theology. A leopard theologean is one who claims, the bible is not to be taken literally. It is like a leopard with spots. The bible is only the inspired word of God in certain spots and I know where those spots are! Of course I am being facetious. I say you can't pick and choose. You either believe all of scripture or none of it. God's love will not cover continuance in the sin of denial. 1 Cor. 6:9..." Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate. nor abusers of themselves with mankind (homos*xuals)...shall inherit the kingdom of God." Transgressors will alter the Word of Truth to make them feel worthy of God's grace. Such grace does not exist in the bible. God's offer of salvation is grace granted for repentance. True grace provides opportunity for change. That change will be in agreement with our Lord's righteousness, not in the opinions of the world.

You can't judge the truth by the way it makes you feel. Feelings are deceptive. Conviction as rendered by the Holy Ghost is not to be confused with feelings. Holy Ghost conviction is a result of sin and promotes an urging to repent...walk away. If you do not obey, you quench the spirit. If this continues, grieving the spirit may result. I will guarantee you this. If you are meant to be a child of God He will get your attention. It is then you will feel bad!

How about this one. People are maturing and changing. Society is a prime example. The old laws of morality and ethics no longer apply. I have said this before and I will say it again...times change/people don't. Technology has advanced man's standard of living, not man's standard of thought. For instance. There are some Christians who declare that no brother or sister in Christ should run for political office. Let me see if I understand this correctly. As Christians we emphasize obeying law but we should be willing to leave the making of the law up to pagans. Do you see a gap in the thought process here?

There are too many silent pulpits. Many who are called, I guess, are not willing to upset their constituents with the truth...God's truth. Not allegorical truth, the literal truth. Let's not offend those who align themselves with the murder of innocent unborn children. God forbid if we should say anything to offend those who twist the love of God to defend same s*x marriages and homos*xuality. And finally, those antisemites who have a low opinion of all Jews. Question: wasn't the Savior of our faith a Jew?

Any man called to the pulpit has the ultimate obligation to relay the truth of scripture. It is not a pastors duty to save anyone, only encourage. It is the spirit of God that saves. No man can save himself, therefore no man can save another. We will all share in an eternity of bliss or one of unquenchable torment. Understand, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." Heb 10:31. And that's the truth!

Yes, the times are getting gloriously dark. The darker it gets, the closer we are to the return of our Savior. He will not come as a lamb to slaughter, but as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He will judge the nations. He will avenge the righteous. Your title will not save you, only the gift of the Spirit can do that. If you are already a brother or sister in the faith, stand fast in your hope for deliverance. It will happen...the Lord says so! If you are not of the Spirit, come to the cross and acknowledge Him as the Lord of your soul. You will be eternally glad you did.

Prayer: Father. I have been obedient to Your Word. I have not spoken with my thoughts but with Your will for man to understand Your commands and Holiness. Your are perfect in all matters; we are not. Nothing imperfect may stand in front of Your Holy throne on the day of judgment. May this word of truth leave Your House this day and bring about the changes necessary to allow all You have called to enter Your Kingdom. In Jesus name we pray...Amen.

03/02/2026

Blood moons...River Euphrates drying up...USA and Israel attack Iran...threat of WWIII...Florida shoreline is disappearing...Water missing from the Mississippi...Democrats refuse to stand up for "American Citizens"...targets being placed on the backs of Law Enforcement...the threat of Islamic cells within US borders...growing apostasy in the church of Christ...ongoing radicalization of American youth...surge in medical health issues...Congress trying to abolish a citizen's ability to protect themselves and or their property..."this list could go on, but I think you get the picture.

What I have presented so far are present day issues. Me being who I am and whom I represent, there is much worse to come. The United States is being judged and found wanting! Just as the grandson of Nebuchadnezzar was forced to read and understand the "writing on the wall", our nation full of errant pride has turned away from the laws of God that govern the conduct of His Creation. It isn't just a USA problem; the seeds of darkness are everywhere. Unfortunately, the fruits of those seeds are popping up all over the earth.

What we have today is far from the garden that was originally planted in Eden. Evil is found in every nook and cranny. Common sense has been abandoned for the doctrine of self. One would think the lessons taught in past history would assume some prominence in making decisions for world peace. That is far from what I have witnessed over the past decade or two. The Word of God has been compromised to the point it is almost unrecognizable in much of the "so called" Christian community. When a nation or a world saturated with man's wisdom takes precedence...bad things are going to happen.

The things we are witnessing as of today are just the "beginning of sorrows." For those who are indwelled by the gift of the Spirit of God, we know and understand how this must be. Those called of God know exactly how this world as we know it comes to an end. Do you? Jesus said..."behold I have told you before." To a Christian soul there is comfort found in this declaration. That does not mean we are not concerned. Our concerns are of a different nature. If you are claiming to be a follower of Christ and have no idea of what I am speaking; search the scriptures. The answer you are looking for is there and always has been. His name is Jesus. For those outside of my faith, I wish you well and hope you will discover the absolute truth offered by a Holy God. Peace can be found in chaos if you are able to trust in a promised destination and provision. Don't let that door of grace close on your eternity. Pastor Mike...Seed Faith Ministries...Bethel Church of Leroy

02/09/2026

Sunday Feb. 8, 2026...This will be a day I will not soon forget.

As Pastor of the Bethel Church of Leroy and with the approval of the Elders in this House of God, we had the priviledge of hearing a message delivered by a young member of our congregation. It was a message that dealt with the "dark times" in his life and how he was to not only able to survive but flourish in the wisdom of God's Word. In the times we face today as a nation, chaos and confusion have no place in a "true Christian's" life. Scripture is very clear as to what is taking place and the way to face life's struggles head on...no fear...no doubt. God is in control of all matters as He moves toward the finish of His eternal plans for "His" creation.

Brother Mark's message was clear and precise. There is a way out of the darkness. That way is Jesus, the prophesied light of the world. That light is the inerrant Word of God. Man has tried to anull the truths found in the pages of the bible. This book has outlived the threats and the violence directed toward those who support the wisdom found within its' pages. I am not confused as I see the Hand of God moving His creation toward the end He has declared to be. Do you? If not, why not?

Many churches today never approach the tension subjects of repentance, wrath, or hell. It is as if these topics do not exist in the bible the profess to follow. In light of the times, and if you are attending or supporting one of these assemblies, take time for deep self-examination. Test what you are hearing or not hearing against scripture. If it is found wanting...leave! To do so is the best option for one seeking eternal life with Christ.

For those of you who are indwelled by the gift of the Spirit of God...good news! I believe the "the Rapture" of the true body of Christ edges closer each and every day. Sure there will be tough times for the church. Jesus died for the church He was committed to building. Understand, the building is not the church. The people in it are! Are you a member of an assembly dedicated to the unfettered Word? The world is changing and not for the better. Things will get worse. Seek the blessing and provision of the Spirit. You will be glad you did! Pastor Mike...Bethel Church of Leroy. *Seed Faith Ministries

01/29/2026

Prov 6:16-19...These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him:
A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren."

I have long held to the premise that some claiming the title of Christian are betrayed by their own actions. Our Lord and Savior is the King of peace. Even so He is also the final judge. Understand, there will be pronounced sheep and goats on the day of judgment. From Matt 25:33..."And He shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left." Then He shall say to the sheep..."blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world." Matt 25:34. What about the goats? To the goats on the left He will say..." Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels." Matt 25:41

I have stated in previous messages my dismay of the occurrences in Minnesota. The bible clearly states you may judge a tree by the fruit that it bears. "There is no good fruit coming out of Minnesota represented by the riots against federal enforcement of the laws of the land." Those of you claiming to be a follower of Christ and participate in those riots or threaten federal law officials are in for a big surprise at the end of your days. Why?

The Amighty absolutely agrees with the necessity of borders and the laws that exist in that society to promote peace and safety. He absolutely agrees that in order to maintain that peace, all those within those borders must assimilate (align themselves with) the existing culture and the laws of the land. *Read Romans chapter 13. He is absolutely against theft (Exodus 20:15), bearing false witness, (Exodus 20:16) and coveting (Exodus 20:17). The coveting part is most important to understand. Why? If those who crossed our borders weren't coveting something they knew they were not allowed to have legally, why did they disobey the law and cross illegally.

I could go on, but not sure at this point in our nations history what good it is going to do. Those relying on their own opinion of self righteousness are paying no attention to that which God requires. Tolerance for violations has taken over the common sense of the rule of law. What is most appalling to me is those in power are encouraging such behavior. " Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are *worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them." Rom 1:32. Understand the *death spoken of here is not physical death but spiritual death...the second death mentioned in the book of Revelation.

My warning is to those who "act as if they are religious, but they reject the power that could make them godly." 2 Tim 3:5 NLT. The bible describes them as " Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth" 2 Tim 3:7 KJV. The truth is, those who are rioting are not only violating civil law, but the laws of God as well. God's love does not extend to those who defy His will. There will be a price to pay. Throwing a "tizzy fit" is not going to change civil law or God's mind. There will never be a perfect peace until Jesus returns to claim His kingdom. In the meantime, please do something that resembles sanity in government and civility in our nation! Pastor Mike.

01/19/2026

I could start off this rant by quoting a bunch of pertinent scriptures, but not sure how many would pay any attention. That seems to be a major problem today. Unless positive action is taken "SOON", our nation "will be lost" to a coalition of self-declared Jihadists. Pay close attention to the following. Jihad--a struggle or fight against the "enemies of Islam and for the protection of the Islamic community." This nation was founded on the principle of religious freedom. I support that premise to this day. I have nothing against the Muslim faith. If they want to worship a god named Allah, so be it. But when they try to forcefully implement their god as the one true god or else...well now I have a major problem!

If you believe what I have declared is Islamophobia, that is your choice. Understand the cultural disruptions occurring in Europe at this moment are taking place because of complacent and irresponsible governance. Look up the term "Fatah" as it pertains to the Muslim faith. You will see it is the solution radical Islamists will turn to when they realize military overthrow is not possible. It goes something like this...they cross a border they are interested in; settle into communities; establish that community as strictly Muslim; establish sharia law separate from the "laws of the land;" grow rapidly in population by whatever means; form voting blocks; install their own candidates in government for one purpose and one purpose only..."change the laws of the land."

Today in Minnesota you have an exact example of "Fatah." The Somali community has virtually been left unfettered for decades. Then end result is what you see plaquing this state. An entire state is being destroyed because those responsible decided to turn a blind eye. Much worse, they may have been complicit. That remains to be determined, but somebody dropped the ball!

One must remember. The will of radical Muslims is to establish a worldwide Caliphate. For those of you not familiar with this term, it means the rule or reign of a caliph or chief Muslim ruler. Brothers and sisters of the Christian faith. If this happens, what do you think is in store for those of us who believe in the one true God...the God of scripture and biblical history? The prophet Mohammed was unknown until approximately 600 years after the death of Christ. He came to power thru military conquest crushing his own people in doing so. What so you see taking place in Iran today? Is this the potential future for our nation?

This does not mean all Muslims are radical in their pursuits. It does mean we should be judging a tree by the fruit that it bears. There is no good fruit coming out of Minnesota. It is time for our
government to do something radical. "ENFORCE THE LAW!!" Pastor Mike...Bethel Church of Leroy.

12/24/2025

The meaning of Christmas

Over the years, especially in my youth, I always celebrated Christmas in the traditional way. The gathering of friends and family was always an anticipated time of great joy and expectation. It was a time for reminiscing the year gone by. As a young boy I was always thinking, "what's under that tree for me"? The Christmas tree stood in a prominent area flashing brilliant seasonal colors while sheltering the gifts below with its' branches. I had always pondered the reason for such a glorious display. If you stared long enough, your heart was flooded with anxious thoughts of opening the package meant for you. What would you find? Does this bring back memories for you as well.

Unfortunately, time moves on and that boy became a man. It didn't take long for the fond memories of days gone by to be replaced with responsibilities and the expectations of others concerning your investment in them. The excitement of surprise by a single gift was superseded by how many and how much did it cost. You eventually ask yourself, "What has become of the Christmas Spirit? Has worldly influence stripped the meaning of Christmas of its' power and influence? I say yes. The spiritual significance has been all but eliminated. Society has lost any connection with the reason for the season.

Christmas has devolved over time, and its' value to mankind has shifted. Traditional values have given way in favor of material things. Eternal matters are no longer a consideration by many. It would appear the power of the flesh has won the battle for men's hearts. I pray the saints of God are far removed from this condition.

Let's go back in time and revisit the birth of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Prayer: Father. I come to you in the name of Jesus, and in Spirit asking for aid in delivering this message. Help us to rediscover the gift of the Spirit of Christmas, in that we may revitalize the hope we have in Christ and our eternal futures. In Jesus name I ask it. Amen.

Scripture: Matt 1:23..." Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us."

Message

In telling the Christmas story we witness the birth of a king born in a manger, the virgin Mary, the fulfillment of prophecy in Bethlehem, the presence of angels, the good news brought first to lowly shepherds, and finally wise men who offered gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Jesus, "God in the flesh", came into this world in a lowly state. We see how God chose 1st the meek and lowly to hear the good news proclaimed by the most powerful beings known to man, the angelic host. "Glory to God in the highest" should be the mantra of every living soul privileged to be indwelled by the Holy Spirit. The birth of Christ and His life of obedience to the sovereign will of God delivers all who claim Him as Savior free from the penalty of sin. Ask yourself, what greater gift could I possibly ask for than the love of God?

That night in a manger, a savior was born. In your mind's eye, do you see the gathering? Do you see the little baby Jesus? No royalty present to herald his birth; no parades; no majestic celebrations; only those whom God honored to be the first witnesses to see the Savior of the world. The Lord Jesus entered this world in a mean state, and He would exit His earthly commitment in much the same way. No accolades from those He came to save. How could this be?

It was God who planned His Son's entry into the world of flesh. It was God's intent that our Lord's entry into a secular life was to be humble. This humble entry disappointed the Jewish brethren He came to serve. They expected their Messiah to rid them of Roman bo***ge; a bo***ge contrived of their own doing. In light of all the Lord God had done for them in the past, they chose to go their own way and thus received the penalty for their prideful rebellion. Yet our merciful Father decided to give them one more chance. The Almighty knows only a humble heart is able to receive the benefit of the gift of the Spirit. And only this gift has the power to manifest the reasons for such royalty to become flesh.

Satan has used the absence of this Spirit in the hearts of men to maximum benefit. His influence swayed the religious leaders of the time to scoff at the idea of a King of Kings and Lord of Lords being born in a manger, and allowing Himself to be ridiculed, beaten, and put to death by mere mortals. The minds of men readily accepted this presumption and were ultimately found to be in full agreement with Satan's assessment. Jesus died. Ah but when He died, the earth shook and people long dead arose from their graves. "Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, truly this was the Son of God." Matt 27:54

Let us revisit the heralding of Christ's birth. Imagine the stillness of the night. Only the feint bleeting of sheep breaking the silence. The stars in the sky putting on full display the power and majesty of the Lord God Jehovah. Then all of a sudden, the glory of the Lord shone all around the shepherds tending the flock and from heaven descended an angel. What a sight that must have been! And then, "the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:10-14
The spiritual significance of our Lord's birth has been severely compromised. We acknowledge the materialistic benefit of this date giving little or no credence to the spiritual significance. It is not hard to enjoy a Christmas gift. However, do the gifts given truly represent a spiritual exercise of love and thankfulness, or something quite different? Each gift is meant to represent something given out of love. The question that begs to be answered is the love for what? The gifts offered by the Magi were given in honor of a Saviors birth. They offered gifts of praise and thanks for an opportunity, a chance for a new beginning. This child was to be the predicted savior of the world. He was to be the final and eternal solution to sin debt. Should we not be thankful for such a gift?
Eternal matters should be the focus of Christmas. The gifts given on this special day should be in recognition of the greatest gift of all. Unfortunately, it appears they are given as a fruit of materialistic idol worship. What do you see? Do you as parents only show your love for your family once a year on a predetermined date? Or is that love projected and affirmed all the days of your life? Jesus declared what true love is and how it is to be manifested. He made absolutely clear how much He loved us by surrendering His life as a gift. All to easily does the will of Satan intervene to disrupt the will of God.
So, what has become of the Christmas Spirit? In your own mind, have you settled on an answer? Reflect on that night in Bethlehem. What do you believe our Lord's birth truly represents? Have you considered Christ's birth as the possibility for a new beginning? If not, why not? Man's attempts to bring peace up to this point have failed miserably. Our Lord's birth offers humanity a new opportunity for peace thru the righteousness of God. Satan would have it another way. In Christ's own words..."The thief (Satan) cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I am come that they (all who would believe) might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." John 10:10. If you want a lasting peace..."seek ye first the kingdom of God." Matt 6:33

Prayer: Lord God. On this most holy occasion, I pray that we all come together in one Spirit and thank you for Your wondrous gift of love. I pray that all in attendance will leave Your house with a renewed Spirit and desire to serve Your Son in His command to bring the message of the Gospel to all in need. I know in my heart that His wish would be for us to place our hopes and dreams at His feet, and as adopted sons and daughters expect to receive the blessings from above. There could be no greater gift for Jesus than for us to pledge our lives to Him and there is certainly a no greater gift than for Him to forfeit His life for us . We lift His name up and ask for Your support thru the Spirit to achieve the goals you set before us. In Jesus name we pray and ask it. Amen. Happy birthday Jesus!

Bethel Church of LeRoy

05/22/2026

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