As ‘Mericans we love our individualism. Historically we like it when we get to do what we want when we want to do it (which has lead to some bad foreign policy decisions over last couple hundred years admittedly). I mean our country was founded on a spirit of rebellion not submission after all. Some of you non-Americans are nodding your head. But as humans we like getting our way and we like being in control. This why when it comes to God we so often struggle with seeing Him as sovereign because the natural implication is that we are not in control.… Continue reading
Author Archives: Daniel MtPleasant
Daily Need for King Yahweh
One of, if not my favorite book of the Bible is the book of Psalms. In the first six psalms, as David reflected on Yahweh’s instruction (Deut 17:14-20), David established the individual and corporate daily need of King Yahweh.
In Psalms 1-6, we see constant meditation on King Yahweh’s instruction, immediate submission to King Yahweh, and daily confidence in King Yahweh.
Constant Meditation on King Yahweh’s Instruction
In Psalm 1, the psalmist contrasts the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. A major characteristic of a righteous man is seeking to understand Yahweh’s instruction (cf. Deut 17:18-20).… Continue reading
TCAC: Established by the Gospel
As we begin the new year (I know I’m 12 days behind, close enough) we must consider our role within the local body of believers, our role in the Covenant Community. (This blog could have/should have been the first in my series on The Church as Community). As Christians we are each called to a local body of believers. We are called to submit to elders (1 Pet 5:5; Heb 13:17), to pray for our elders (Heb 13:18), and to gather regularly as a local church (Heb 10:24-25). Parachurch organizations are not what we as Christians are called to (there are several great parachurch organizations and a plethora of bad parachurch organizations).… Continue reading
Christmas Lessons from Charlie Brown
Today is December 2nd. December is one of my favorite months. In the month of December our family celebrates three birthdays, one wedding anniversary, and two deaths. It’s a time that we as a family celebrate and experience Psalm 133. It’s a time that is marked by traditions. Growing up and to this day, one of my favorite parts of December is “A Charlie Brown Christmas” (and I love the soundtrack!).
There are three lessons we need to take away this Christmas season from this short film.
1. Enjoy the Traditions but Avoid Commercialism
In “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Charlie Brown is searching for the true meaning of Christmas:
… Continue readingLucy: You need involvement.
TCAC: Exalting God Together in Song
Growing up I remember my dad singing a simple song called A Song Holy Angels Cannot Sing. The lyrics were as follows:
Angels never knew the joy that is mine
For the blood has never washed their sins away,
tho they sing in Heaven there will come a time,
when silently they’ll listen to me sing “Amazing Grace.”
It’s a song Holy Angels cannot sing,
“Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound!”
It’s a song Holy Angels cannot sing,
“I once was lost, but now I’m found!”
Holy is the LORD, the angels sing,
All around the throne of GOD continually;
For me to join their song will be a natural thing,
But they just won’t know the words to “Love Lifted Me”. … Continue reading