Psalm 27 - Happy New Year!

December 28, 2015 Monday Message:

“One thing I ask … that I may dwell in the house of the Lord.” from Psalms 27:4a

Christianity can be simple, or Christianity can be complicated. Denominations and individual churches come up with rules, regulations, systems and procedures that seem good and meet their needs, but really have nothing to do with salvation.

We have men’s and women’s groups, youth groups, leadership teams and committee meetings; mission and outreach teams, little kids, middle kids, young adult groups and a senior’s luncheon - none of which are in the Bible.

Don’t misunderstand - fellowship with other Christians is good. Everyone puts on their church “nice.” You can’t get into a lot of “worldly” trouble at church. It’s a safe place to hang out. But just showing up at church and serving on a committee won’t get you into heaven.

And isn’t that what we all really want, to see heaven from the inside? That’s what David asked in Psalm 27, to dwell in the house of the Lord.

If we come before God, confess our sinful nature and claim Jesus as our savior, our redeemer, He has assured us a place in his kingdom. It’s that simple. It would be a great way to begin this New Year. 

Jesus said to his followers, “My Father’s house has many rooms. I will go there and prepare a place for you.”

Maybe we’ll get to meet David! Happy New Year!

Norton Lawellin

Let’s worship together! Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Jan. 3, 2016, Jesus continues growing up, Luke 2:41-52. See you at church!

Merry Christmas!

December 21, 2015 Monday Message:

Jesus: “I have come in order that you might have life — life in all its fullness.” John 10:10b GNT

The Bible says that God’s desire is that no one would perish. God, being God, knows everything, and has known it for all time. So He knew that mankind would come up short and need rescuing.

Therefore the second person of our triune God, Jesus the Christ, came to earth as a little baby, to lead us, to teach us, to heal us – but most of all, to rescue mankind from our two biggest problems: sin and death. Jesus took the sin of the world upon himself, carried it to the grave, and three days later was up, walking around where people could see him. Sin and death were defeated once and for all in that unique event.

Jesus came so that we could have life – a better life here on earth; and, after that, eternal life in heaven with the Father. “Whoever has the Son has eternal life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have this life.” 1 John 5:12

Eternal life – that’s a pretty good Christmas present!

Welcome, Jesus — Merry Christmas, everyone!

Norton Lawellin

Join us for worship! Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Dec. 27, we’ll welcome baby Jesus to our world. See you at church!

Psalm 26 - Decision

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December 14, 2015 Monday Message:

“I have trusted in the Lord, and have not faltered.” Psalms 26:1b

The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association used to have a daily radio program called, “Decision Today,” the premise being that seekers needed to make a decision to follow Jesus. New Christians oftentimes need to reinforce that decision each day, reassuring themselves that their earlier decision was truly the correct thing to do.

If you’ve been a loyal follower of Jesus for quite some time, perhaps your decision is no longer called into question. You steadfastly, incontrovertibly walk with Jesus each day. For you, there’s no other option. Following Jesus is how you’re wired – it’s second nature, so much so that you really don’t have to think about it any longer.

David was at this point in Psalm 26. He even challenges God to test his loyalty. “I have always been mindful of your unfailing love, and have relied on your faithfulness. I do not sit with deceitful hypocrites; I abhor evildoers and wicked people; I tell others of your wonderful deeds.”

David prays, “Deliver me and be merciful to me. In heaven I will praise the Lord.”

Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Dec. 20, Pastor Michael Pilla speaks on the 4th Sunday of Advent.

Psalm 25 - Putting God First

December 7, 2015 Monday Message:

“In you, Lord my God, I put my trust.” Psalms 25:1

The words David sings to the Lord are prioritized. First and foremost, David trusts God with everything, and David tells him so. Now that that’s established, that God’s in first place, we can move on to other things.

David prays for protection from his numerous enemies. And he trusts that a follower of the Lord will never be disgraced. “Show me your path, Lord. Teach me your truth. Continue with the compassion and everlasting love that we count on. Forgive the sins of those who fear the Lord.”

David’s going through a bad time. He prays, “My problems go from bad to worse. See how many enemies I have, and how viciously they hate me! May integrity and honesty protect me, for I put my hope in you.”

Trust the Lord in all things. Put God first in your life.

“All day long I put my hope in You.” Psalms 25:5b

Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Dec. 13, Pastor Michael Pilla speaks on the 3rd Sunday of Advent.

Psalm 24b

November 30, 2015 Monday Message:

“Lift up your heads, you gates…” Psalms 24:7a

When a king arrives at a gated city, the crier shouts, “Open the gate!”

From within, a voice demands, “Who is there?”

“It’s the king!” And immediately, the gate is opened.

Sometimes the stuff going on in our heads is like a gate. It’s difficult to fully understand some Christian principles – that God can be everywhere at once, omnipresent – that God knows everything, omniscient – God has the power to do anything, omnipotent. The Christian triune God – one God who has revealed himself to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – is difficult for many to grasp.

If we over-think some of these things, our souls could be left behind. Thinking about Godly things is good, but OVER-thinking theology can be like putting up a gate. We have to accept some things by faith, and let go of the details. There are some things that only God knows.

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If any hear my voice and open the door, I will come into their house and eat with them, and they will eat with me.” Rev. 3:20

Jesus promised – open the door, and I will come in! He desires fellowship with each of us. So lift up your gates today!

Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Dec. 6, Pastor Michael Pilla speaks on the 2^nd Sunday of Advent.

Psalm 24a

November 23, 2015 Monday Message:

“The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it.” Psalms 24:1a

As humans, we tend to want to own things and control things. Someone once wrote, “When we die, whoever has the most toys – wins!” That was intended to be a joke, but it’s a sad commentary on our relationship with the Creator.

In our land of free enterprise, many people believe that what we earn is ours. We use OUR dollars to buy OUR house, OUR car, OUR clothes, OUR food and OUR toys. The more successful we are, the bigger are our toys. If a church or a charity needs help, most people look to their “leftover” dollars, with the attitude of, “I have everything I want – and a few dollars left-over for God!” I got mine, and God comes after that.

This whole attitude changes if we take a moment to acknowledge God as the creator of EVERYTHING! He made the earth, separated the oceans from the land, the light from the dark, and in fact created our galaxy, our entire universe. God also created humans, made us in His image, male and female. The truth is, the earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it! This was true 3,000 years ago when David wrote Psalm 24, and it’s still true today.

So instead of taking everything you want and giving God the left-overs – or – thinking everything is yours and letting God have 10% — admit that everything belongs to God, a God who is loving, a God of generous provision who wants to make sure that you get 90%! Give thanks for God is good!

Don’t accept more than 90% from God. That’s what the Bible says.

Norton Lawellin

Let’s worship together! Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Nov. 29, I’ll open up the Advent season as we prepare for our LORD coming to earth as a little baby! See you at church!

Psalm 23

November 16, 2015 Monday Message:

“He (God) restores my soul.” Psalms 23:3a

If you asked anybody to name their favorite Psalm, which Psalm would they want read at their funeral, most people choose Psalm 23. There’s a lot within those 6 short verses, so let’s dig in.

David begins with God’s holy name, “YHWH is my shepherd.” It’s a perfect analogy. Sheep, like humans, tend to wander off and make bad decisions. The reason that there are shepherds is because the sheep need a leader. Humans need a leader too, someone to keep us on-track, and David suggests YHWH as someone who leads him, someone who could help us all.

The Shepherd is good to us, takes care of us, and provides for us. But most importantly, no matter how far we may have fallen, the Shepherd can and will restore us. God is in the restoration business.

Notice that God does not promise a life without tribulation. But he DOES promise to walk with you, even in the valley of the shadow of death. Even in the presence of your enemies, God’s blessings will overflow.

The result of this relationship with the LORD is that God has a place reserved for you in his house. Prepare yourself to be adopted into the Holy family, to live in God’s eternal kingdom – forever!

That’s what the Bible says.

Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Nov. 22, Pastor Retha speaks from Ephesians 6:10-20, “the Armor of God.”

Psalm 22

November 9, 2015 Monday Message:

“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Psalms 22:1a

It seems someone is always trying to kill David, and in his depression, he questions if God has left him to fend for himself. Jesus uses these words on the cross when burdened with the sin of the world.

For David, it’s somewhat of a rhetorical question, because as this Psalm develops, David praises God, acknowledges God’s Holiness, and acknowledges his own insignificance. David concludes by saying that God’s righteousness will be declared from generation to generation.

Think of God like the sun. Each day as afternoon turns into evening, we say, “The sun went down.” But the truth is that the sun is right where it’s always been. It’s the earth that turned away from the light.

God is right where he’s always been. If the light of God no longer shines into your life, who moved?

If the light is growing dim, it’s time to repent and return. That’s what the Bible says.

Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Nov. 15, Pastor Michael Pilla speaks from Ephesians 4.

Psalm 21

November 2, 2015 Monday Message:

God made David their king: “…a man after my own heart, who will do all my will.” Acts 13:22

David had been highly favored by God, and David is grateful. Worship song Psalm 21 almost sounds a little conceited or selfish on David’s part, but if you were living at that time, you would know that Israel was only as strong as its king, and God had raised David up to be that king. Therefore all of Israel praised God for favoring their leader.

Just as God was kind to David, so God is kind to each of us. So as you read Psalm 21, just insert your own name. “You grant me my hearts desires…, You greet me with rich blessings…, You granted me life – length of days, for ever and ever!” Look at all God has done for you! from Psalms 21:2-4 NIV

God’s protection continues: “Your right hand will seize my foes…, On battle, you will burn up my enemies as a furnace…, You will destroy their descendants. from Psalms 21:8-10

Verse 11 puts the evil and wicked in their proper place: “They cannot succeed.”

“We exalt Your strength; we will sing and praise Your power.” Psalms 21:13

Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Nov. 8, Pastor Michael Pilla continues preaching from the Bible.

Psalm 20

October 26, 2015 Monday Message:

Have you ever been surprised - caught off-guard – even humbled – when, after explaining your predicament, someone says, “Let me pray for you!”

David took it a step further in Psalm 20. He set it to music and worked it into corporate worship, so everyone would be praying for each other as they sang to the Lord. “May God defend you, help you and strengthen you. May God remember you and accept your offerings. May God know your heart’s desires, and help you fulfill your purpose. We worship the Lord; may He fulfill all our petitions.” from Psalms 20:1-5 NKJV

David then lists things he knows for certain. “The Lord saves his chosen people. God answers us from heaven, with the saving strength of his right hand.” from Psalms 20:6

Some people have bowed to earthly things, and fallen. But those who remember the name of God have risen and stand upright!

“May the victorious King answer us when we call.” Psalms 20:9

Norton Lawellin

“Fall back” – Daylight Saving Time nips us again! Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Nov. 1, Pastor Michael Pilla: Ephesians 2:11-22.

Psalm 19

October 19, 2015 Monday Message:

Since the beginning of time, people have tried to explain the creation of planet Earth, our solar system, our galaxy, and our universe. Scientists go as far as facts will take them, and then expand upon those facts in a logical way, to fill in the gaps of what we don’t know for sure, to theorize how creation might actually have taken place. Nowadays, the “Big Bang Theory” has risen to the top.

But even with that, we still don’t know who decided it was time for the Big Bang, just how huge the Big Bang needed to be, what was involved and where it took place. There comes a point where the science we don’t know makes more sense when we credit the missing events to God. “Divine Intervention” is a concept endorsed by David 3,000 years ago.

A morning radio DJ, joking about the weather forecast, would often tell people to just, “Look out your window!” David explains the Creator and His creation in a similar way. “The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display His craftsmanship. They speak not a sound or word. Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world.” from Psalms 19:1-4 NLT In other words, just look out your window, and you’ll know that God had His hand on all of this.

David concludes Psalm 19 with words we all know. These are good thoughts to insert into our prayers. Pastors have opened many messages quoting this Psalm of David: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalms 19:14

Norton Lawellin

Come worship with us! Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Oct. 25, Martin Luther tries to steer the church back to the Bible. Reformation 101, Ephesians 2. See you at church!

Psalm 18

October 12, 2015 Monday Message:

“I love you, Lord, my strength.” Psalms 18:1 NIV

God had rescued David from all his enemies and from Saul, and David was grateful. God is the best! So David sang Psalm 18 to the Lord, and gave the words to the worship leader, so others could sing along too.

David doesn’t hold anything back – he jumps right in: “I love you Lord!” Then he exposits upon that first thought: “You are my rock, my fortress, my shield, my deliverer … God’s way is perfect – Who is the rock except our God?”

David talks about God orchestrating his rescue: “He drew me out of deep waters ... He rescued me because he delighted in me.” Apparently this all happened the way God directed!

Too often our contemporary worship songs talk about us, what we are going to do for God: “I will worship you, I will answer Your call, I will sing praises.” These aren’t ‘bad’ themes, but sometimes I feel like there’s too much “I” and not enough God.

There is value in a song like Psalm 18, where God is King: “As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless.” Psalm 18:30 And David asks the rhetorical question: “Who is God besides the Lord?” Psalm 18:31a God is awesome, almighty and all-powerful – He is God and we are not! Amen!

Spend some time this week with Psalm 18, and witness David’s ultimate praise and worship experience!

Norton Lawellin

Come worship with us! Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Oct. 18, I’ll continue our study in Ephesians 1:15-23. See you at church!

Psalm 17

October 05, 2015 Monday Message:

“Hear me, Lord, my plea is just.” Psalms 17:1a NIV

David once again prays to God in Psalm 17. He first offers evidence, justification that the Lord should answer his prayer requests. “My prayer is not from deceitful lips. May your eyes see what is right. Probe my heart, examine me, test me; You will find that I have planned no evil, and my mouth has not transgressed.” Is your heart pure when you come before the Lord?

David restates the promise in scripture, that the Lord is forever faithful. “I call on my God, for you will answer me. Show me the wonders of your great love. Keep me as the apple of your eye, in the shelter of your wing.” Do we trust that God will be ever-faithful with us?

When Saul was king, he felt threatened by David, the future king, so he sent his soldiers to attack David. After David was on the throne, other countries were constantly attacking Israel. As David grew older, even his own sons sought to take over the nation. David had enemies in spades! “They have tracked me down, they now surround me, to throw me to the ground. They are like a fierce lion crouching in cover, hungry for prey.” Do you ever have days when you feel like everyone is out to get you?

David then calls upon the Lord for vengeance. “Rise up, confront my enemies, bring them down; with your sword, rescue me from the wicked.” Needing rescue from the wicked is a good time to call upon God.

No one picks up a sword to inflict a flesh wound. David is asking God to kill his enemies. He has no other solution – He believes that Divine intervention is the only answer. What God has for the wicked, David wishes upon their children and their children’s children. But Jesus taught us to pray for our enemies. But instead of praying for their death, we should pray that they would renounce their evil ways and repent.

And as for David – he’s the man after God’s own heart. The Lord will justify him. “I will be vindicated; I will see Your face.”

Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Oct. 11, Pastor Michael Pilla opens up the book of Ephesians.

Psalm 14

(For some unknown reason, the Sept. 7 Psalm 14 message wasn't showing up on the blog list. I've been asked to re-post it, so the commentary on Psalms would be complete.)

September 7, 2015 Monday Message:

Happy Labor Day holiday!

“Only a fool would say, ‘There is no God!’” Psalm 14:1a CEV

David pens Psalm 14 “for the music leader,” literally one who shines for the Lord. The one who “shines” is to tell everyone the Good News, that there is indeed a God, a God who looks after all things on earth. To David, it’s self-evident.

If you examine the earth, its size, its complexity – or the vastness of our galaxy, and galaxies beyond our own – or even the complex systems within a human body – there is only one logical explanation: Divine Intervention. The intricacy of these entities tells us that all of this is no happenchance. In other words, God designed all of this. He planned everything, and He keeps his hand on all creation.

Good people celebrate their connection with the Lord. Evil ones should fear God. David asks, “Won’t you evil people ever learn?”

God is on the side of every good person. The Lord protects the poor. God’s people cherish their partnership with God. They’re confident knowing that God is the consummate leader. This psalm concludes, “When You bless your people again … Israel will celebrate.” Not “if” you bless your people, but “when.” God is faithful – He will never abandon his people. Jesus says, “I will be with you always, until the end of the age.” from Matt. 28:20

Norton Lawellin