Sharon Community Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Sharon Community Presbyterian Church, 522 Carnot Road, Moon Township, PA 15108, 412.264.7400, www.sharonpc.com, Becky Branch-Trevathan, Pastor.

 

Scripture – Philippians 3:4-14 NIV

…though I myself have reasons for such confidence.

If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.

But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

 

Bob’s thoughts:

We had looked forward to revisiting this church to see the dynamics with a new pastor.

I remembered the striking wrought iron cross above the covered entrance and the larger cross inside. There is also a rustic cross at the edge of the upper parking lot that I assume might be adorned with seasonal wrap.

This was our first occasion to try to worship in a church within Allegheny County and we were not prepared. Retrospectively I suspect members were to register if coming to church (based on post-visit research) and had we known, we would not have tried to visit. We did not expect to be questioned, temperature checked, and required to sign a waiver absolving the church, let alone assigned seating by some random formula. Masks were required throughout the service.

Once seated in the pew we met the pastor, who explained some of the parameters for worship there. She also got to say a few words at the beginning and end of the service. The rest of the service was on video screen. There was a particularly lovely song from the praise team.

I believe we were both so irritated how the government can come to rule so much of how church will be done that neither of us felt worthy to partake in Communion. The government seems to be determined to keep Christ out; my heart goes out to His Church to be restricted so.

If I heard the children’s sermon correctly, I must comment on basic Christian theology: faith in Christ does not have to be a lifelong endeavor. Too many times I have witnessed deathbed conversions like the criminal crucified with Christ.

A good thought from the message on the Christian way of compassion: we have what we believe and need to show compassion to those who believe differently. And a favorite line, “to be vaccinated in humility.”

 

Jan’s thoughts:

In compliance with CDC guidelines (and presumably Gov. Wolf’s edicts, though that was not specifically stated), as we walked into this church we had our temperatures taken, we each had to sign a waiver, we were told where to sit and that we were expected to wear our masks throughout the service even though worshipers were seated with a row of vacant pews between them. In the course of all this, several folks necessarily and genuinely welcomed us.

Music was led by several folks off to one side of the sanctuary. We requested seats toward the back as volume is sometimes an issue for us; the usher sat us as far back as they were permitting seating, which was about the halfway point, which turned out to be fine. It speaks volumes about the singers’ ability to enunciate when I could understand them through their masks.

The children’s message was pre-recorded, another new thing during “these times.” It focused on the idea of a trophy for running a race (or a similar competition) and winning a prize. The presenter closed by reiterating her points, stating that you don’t get the trophy of going to Heaven if you’re a Christian for only one day. This surprised me, as I had interpreted Christ’s parable of the landowner in Matthew 20:1-16 to mean exactly the opposite. Not to mention the criminal crucified next to Him who believed in Him and Jesus told him he would be with Him in paradise.

The sermon was presented by Dr. Graham Standish, Executive Director of Samaritan Counseling. The message was called “Losing it All and Pressing On” and in it he spoke of historical figures who had failed in some sense and who learned humility because of their failure. Their humility then allowed them to succeed on a godly path. He stated it’s possible to be a religious success and a spiritual failure, and that failure moves us from certainty to humility.

 

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we pray You will carry Your church through this attack. Encourage their compassion for those who are hurting. Your Church has always been at its best when oppressed because You carry Your people. May it continue to be so. Amen.

Coraopolis Church of the Nazarene

Today we worshiped at Coraopolis Church of the Nazarene, 386 Shafer Road, Moon Township, PA 15108, 412.264.4582, www.coraopolisnazarene.org, Rev. Greg Kasler, Pastor.

Scripture – Ephesians 1:15-23 NKJV –

Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.

And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.

Bob’s thoughts:

We arrived just as the service was starting due to poor directions and doubling back right before we reached the church, so there was little chance for greeting. The usher made sure we found our way to the service though.

I liked the wooden cross on the diagonal wood paneling on the rear wall of the chancel and I appreciated singing and hearing praise music we were familiar with.

There was a cute toddler near the front who, as usual, I smiled at till I got a smile in response. I was a little disappointed when my wife pointed out the two girls in front of us who were probably who the little one was smiling at instead of me.

The pastor’s message was part of a series, “Digging in to Ephesians” and raised the question “What is the church to be?”

He told of an elderly woman who had been active in the church but was finding herself limited and lamented, “All I can do is pray.” I wish we were all so limited that we would accomplish what should be our primary goal and pray.

I got to share with the pastor the story of my elderly neighbor who became a prayer warrior and how God has used that interaction to inspire me to suggest to the churches we visit that they ask their shut-in members to take on this important role for the church.

Jan’s thoughts:

We arrived just as the service was beginning so we had no opportunity for greetings or to wander around the building. A gentleman greeted us at the door with a bulletin and ushered us into the sanctuary where we found seats immediately.

The sanctuary is uncluttered and the colors are well coordinated. I liked the cross and the pattern of woodwork behind the platform.

The contemporary music was well done with excellent volume.

The message series is called “Digging in to Ephesians” and today’s entry was “Our Identity in Christ.” The pastor stated that when most of us pray, we pray for others to come to know Christ or for strength to do our real work, but in Ephesians we learn that prayer IS the real work. Too often people say, “All I can do is pray,” and the pastor advised that if you can do other things, make sure you’re praying first.

This message put a different spin on how to pray for others, that instead of simply praying for physical or spiritual needs, I should be praying:

1 – that others, even if they already know God, may come to know Him better;

2 – that others will know the hope to which God has called them;

3 – that they will know His incomparably great power, the power of the Holy Spirit, Who lives in all believers.

I appreciated this message and plan to keep those points handy for my prayer time.

Several people, including the pastor, made it a point to introduce themselves after worship, which was much appreciated.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we pray Your church will catch on to the calling You are leading them to that they also may avow, “All I can do is pray!” Amen.

Faith Journey Alliance Church

Today we worshiped at Faith Journey Alliance Church, 1705 Beaver Grade Road, Moon Township, PA 15108, 412.264.1725, www.faithjourneyac.org.

Scripture – Leviticus 19:2 (NKJV)

“Speak to all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say to them: ‘You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy.'

Bob’s thoughts:

We were warmly welcomed to this small, friendly church.

I meant to get a closer look at the interesting carved wooden cross up front with flowers around it and what may have been Alpha and Omega on either side.

I sensed some spiritual warfare going on and this was confirmed in talking with a member after the service. They have had their problems and are without a pastor right now but are fighting for Christ anyhow. I think there must be some committed believers here to cause the devil such concern.

The message was delivered via video and brought some good points that supported the laity’s comments earlier. The sermon was titled “Return to Sanity.”

We easily get caught up in the thought that we are good, but Christ tells us only the Father is good. When we recognize God’s perfection, we see the sin within us. We prove Christ right: He came sinless and we murdered Him.

The world is teaching that God is evolving, that His Word, the Bible, is evolving, but they won’t admit God is perfect or that they are not.

Many faithful believers profess the need for God to evolve to meet what they think would be fair and accommodating, but they are trying to placate man.

Didn’t catch all of the line toward the end, but heard “beats the bejesus out of.”

I enjoyed watching some cute children and talking with a few members.

Jan’s thoughts:

This is a fairly small and self-confessed “tight knit” faith community that was still friendly enough for more than a few people to seek out visitors just to extend a greeting. The gentleman serving as the unofficial greeter also made sure we received invitations to next week’s picnic and knew there were coffee and donuts available. Following the service he took time for an extended conversation about the past and future plans of the church.

The chairs in the sanctuary were comfortable and I was intrigued by the tables and chairs set up on both sides of the room.

As this church is currently without pastoral leadership, the message that was presented on the screen was given by the pastor of the Allegheny Center Alliance Church, Rev. Rock Dillaman, and was called “Return to Sanity.”

He went into great depth in speaking of the “spiritual insanity” of sin and stated clearly what is meant when Scripture states that God is holy. He said sin is the result of our selfish decisions, it destroys harmony with God, and in order to regain our spiritual sanity we must confess our sins to God and ask for His forgiveness.

He also spoke of the sin of idolatry and how close it is to every person, urging everyone to recognize and fight these dangerous lies.

I believe these are some of the spiritual battles we all must face in this world, and they are certainly constant.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we pray for Your continued presence and guidance for this church as they are replenished through training. We trust You also are looking forward to the things they will accomplish for You in Your Holy Name. Amen.

Sharon Community Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Sharon Community Presbyterian Church, 522 Carnot Road, Moon Township, PA 15108, 412.264.7400, www.sharonpc.com, Rev. Dr. Doug Marshall, Interim Pastor.

Scripture – NASB

Luke 14:15-21 –

When one of those who were reclining at the table with Him heard this, he said to Him, "Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!"

But He said to him, "A man was giving a big dinner, and he invited many; and at the dinner hour he sent his slave to say to those who had been invited, 'Come; for everything is ready now.' But they all alike began to make excuses. The first one said to him, 'I have bought a piece of land and I need to go out and look at it; please consider me excused.' Another one said, 'I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to try them out; please consider me excused.' Another one said, 'I have married a wife, and for that reason I cannot come.' And the slave came back and reported this to his master. Then the head of the household became angry and said to his slave, 'Go out at once into the streets and lanes of the city and bring in here the poor and crippled and blind and lame.'

2 Samuel 9:1-13 –

Then David said, "Is there yet anyone left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan's sake?" Now there was a servant of the house of Saul whose name was Ziba, and they called him to David; and the king said to him, "Are you Ziba?" And he said, "I am your servant." The king said, "Is there not yet anyone of the house of Saul to whom I may show the kindness of God?" And Ziba said to the king, "There is still a son of Jonathan who is crippled in both feet." So the king said to him, "Where is he?" And Ziba said to the king, "Behold, he is in the house of Machir the son of Ammiel in Lo-debar." Then King David sent and brought him from the house of Machir the son of Ammiel, from Lo-debar. Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan the son of Saul, came to David and fell on his face and prostrated himself. And David said, "Mephibosheth." And he said, "Here is your servant!" David said to him, "Do not fear, for I will surely show kindness to you for the sake of your father Jonathan, and will restore to you all the land of your grandfather Saul; and you shall eat at my table regularly." Again he prostrated himself and said, "What is your servant, that you should regard a dead dog like me?"

Then the king called Saul's servant Ziba and said to him, "All that belonged to Saul and to all his house I have given to your master's grandson. You and your sons and your servants shall cultivate the land for him, and you shall bring in the produce so that your master's grandson may have food; nevertheless Mephibosheth your master's grandson shall eat at my table regularly." Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants. Then Ziba said to the king, "According to all that my lord the king commands his servant so your servant will do." So Mephibosheth ate at David's table as one of the king's sons. Mephibosheth had a young son whose name was Mica. And all who lived in the house of Ziba were servants to Mephibosheth. So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, for he ate at the king's table regularly. Now he was lame in both feet.

Bob’s thoughts:

I enjoyed being able to worship in church again and it was nice to return to Sharon. We were greeted at the door by the pastor and by a number of people, including a brother Marine.

It was enjoyable to not have to wonder if there will be a cross on the wall.

The time for silent confession was way too short for me.

A number of people greeted us during the passing of Christ’s peace.

I found the flute during the offertory delightfully refreshing.

I thought video of the children was being projected on the screen during the children’s time but then realized it was just a photo. I couldn’t see it well from where we sat and couldn’t believe how they were sitting still.

The sermon, “Mephibosheth WHO?” drew a great correlation of God’s grace for us hopeless sinners. The fear Mephibosheth must have felt to be called up to David’s presence, as we come, unworthy, to God. One statement I liked: “We all have fears that cripple us.” There was a thought for meditation that I’m sure Jan will include.

Jan’s thoughts:

We drove past this church the other day and wondered what might have changed since our last visit, which seemed much longer ago than a year and a half.

The signage was helpful and prominent. Several folks greeted us as we entered, before the service began, and afterward. A number of people invited us to attend the annual picnic scheduled for right outside immediately following the service; unfortunately we had other plans and could not attend but we truly appreciated the hospitality.

The membership is gearing up for their bicentennial celebration in 2017; there seem to be many other events in motion as well.

The sanctuary was just as lovely as I recalled. We sat in the last pew, as usual, in order to avoid any potential issues with volume. However this time it backfired, as the organ was immediately behind us in the balcony, and it was quite loud.

I loved the “Thought for Meditation” in the bulletin, adapted from Craig Barnes: “The gospel’s open secret is that strength is found in weakness. Crippled people know that they need a Savior. The goal isn’t to avoid disability. The goal is to find the Savior. And our dis-ability is always the means for discovering the Savior’s ability.” It fit perfectly with the sermon and contains much truth. What it doesn’t say is that we are all crippled somehow…not all disabilities are visible.

The sermon was entitled “Mephibosheth WHO?” It has been a while since I read the story, but this message connected some dots for me.

The pastor pointed out that Mephibosheth was about 5 years old when his father was killed, which would have been traumatic and would have caused Mephibosheth to spend the first part of his life living in fear. He reminded that fear cripples us all.

Mephibosheth would also have expected David to try to kill him, as that was the usual order of events, so when David sought him out asking, “Where is he?”, the pastor reminded that this is the same question God asks when He seeks us out, because we hide too.

Mephibosheth begged for his life, and David simply said his name, just as God calls us by name, because we are not just impersonal identifiers, we are people with names. Mephibosheth was a disabled man living in fear who was invited to enjoy provision, honor, and relationship with the king, just as we are invited to eat at God’s Table and to enjoy His provision, honor, and a relationship with Him.

David’s giving all this to someone with nothing to give in return reflected God’s same gifts to us because it is Who God is and what He does.

I deeply appreciated hearing this message today as it cleared up a mystery for me. It was also a touching reminder of a time when God spoke my name to me at a period of extreme worry in my life. I have always marveled at all He communicated in that single syllable, not the least of which was that He had not forgotten me. In that moment I learned I not only had a name, but that God knew and remembered it. A precious memory indeed.

I savored the opportunity to participate in Communion, as it had been a while, and the piano accompaniment during the sacrament was a perfect complement.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we pray this church will find Christ’s strength in their weakness. Amen.

Genesis Church

Today we worshiped at Genesis Church, (mailing address) P.O. Box 1010, Moon Township, PA 15108, (meets in the DoubleTree Hotel, 8402 University Boulevard, Moon Township, PA 15108), 412.264.8665, www.genesischurchlife.com, Wayne Jackson, Pastor.

Scripture – ESV

Proverbs 12:18 –

There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

Proverbs 10:19

When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.

Bob’s thoughts:

Today was an interesting day in worship. This church meets in a hotel, so is not encumbered with all the trappings of “our church building.” I think the strongest ministry took place before and after the service, and the service was good.

I was so pleased to find a cross on the chancel; when it is absent I really miss it.

Signage was not an issue since the building is a hotel, but I was confused by the flyer near the entry with start times that did not match what was advertised on the website: we expected: a 10 a.m. from the website and handout, but worship got underway at 10:30. I was glad we were early though as we had some delightful conversations with the minister, congregants, and a pleasant girl and her toy penguin with a broken wing. I’m sure God used these encounters to His glory as we lifted each other up.

A man offered a refreshingly natural and unscripted prayer that sounded like a conversation with God.

I enjoyed the praise team, especially the woman providing the echo.

The pastor brought up an interesting point in his sermon that it is not necessary to take notes as you can listen to the sermon online later and get Scripture references.

I think the mic might have been a little too far from the pastor.

I seldom comment in depth on sermons because when I take too many notes I lose too much of the message. God usually speaks to me on one or two points and today it was “be good at listening first.” I and many others are often waiting to jump in with our comments or opinions instead of really listening. We get caught up in believing there is a word problem when it is really a heart problem. Can we just relax and share God’s love? Can I learn to always speak from my heart?

Jan’s thoughts:

The City Reach church organization is everywhere, it seems, and this church turned out to be another City Reach plant. They gather in a meeting room of the DoubleTree Hotel where they set up their equipment just like any other church sanctuary except they are not saddled with caring for a building. I know this sort of arrangement is not for everyone, but there are definite advantages.

We arrived early and were greeted warmly by two tween-aged girls and several adults as they set up coffee/tea/water, and then engaged in conversation by some other adults as worshipers began arriving. We hit it off with one member and began a conversation before worship and continued the conversation afterward.

The sound of the praise band was pleasant and the volume was perfect. I had a little difficulty reading the white words on the spring green background, but they were certainly sized well.

A young woman who we later learned was the pastor’s daughter spoke about making a mission trip to Louisiana. Upon learning her seatmate on the flight was traveling home due to the death of her father, the young woman asked her seatmate to relay her favorite memories of her father, and I couldn’t help but appreciate the wisdom and compassion she demonstrated in following the urging of the Holy Spirit.

The untitled message centered on the heart problem that exists when our speech is less than gracious and kind. God cares how we speak, and we are known by the fruit of our words. Our words can be nourishing, healing, and saving, and if our words can have that much of an effect, imagine what God’s words can do.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we pray this congregation will continue to share Your love with each other and those You guide to their door. Amen.

Pathway Church

Today we worshiped at Pathway Church, Moon Campus, Gilmary Center, 601 Flaugherty Run Road, Coraopolis, PA 15108, 724.843.6381, www.lifeatpathway.com, Chad Agnew, Campus Pastor.

Scripture – Acts 15:13-35

"When they finished, James spoke up. “Brothers,” he said, “listen to me. Simon has described to us how God first intervened to choose a people for his name from the Gentiles. The words of the prophets are in agreement with this, as it is written:

“ ‘After this I will return and rebuild David’s fallen tent. Its ruins I will rebuild, and I will restore it, that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, even all the Gentiles who bear my name, says the Lord, who does these things’ — things known from long ago.

“It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God. Instead we should write to them, telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood. For the law of Moses has been preached in every city from the earliest times and is read in the synagogues on every Sabbath.”

Then the apostles and elders, with the whole church, decided to choose some of their own men and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They chose Judas (called Barsabbas) and Silas, men who were leaders among the believers. With them they sent the following letter:

The apostles and elders, your brothers,

To the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria and Cilicia:

Greetings.

We have heard that some went out from us without our authorization and disturbed you, troubling your minds by what they said. So we all agreed to choose some men and send them to you with our dear friends Barnabas and Paul— men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore we are sending Judas and Silas to confirm by word of mouth what we are writing. It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things.

Farewell.

So the men were sent off and went down to Antioch, where they gathered the church together and delivered the letter. The people read it and were glad for its encouraging message. Judas and Silas, who themselves were prophets, said much to encourage and strengthen the believers.

After spending some time there, they were sent off by the believers with the blessing of peace to return to those who had sent them.

But Paul and Barnabas remained in Antioch, where they and many others taught and preached the word of the Lord."

Bob’s thoughts:

At Easter we received a postcard inviting us to worship at this church (see, someone does respond to the mailings).

The complex is spread out a bit and we were a little later arriving than we had hoped. We wandered around the buildings to where I had noticed some people standing; it turned out they were blocking the sign directing toward worship. We were greeted by a few people during the service; I thought with a smaller congregation we would stand out more.

A lot of the modern churches don’t display a cross, but this service was in the gym of a Catholic retreat center and there were a number of cross banners on the wall. I appreciated them, whichever entity was responsible. During Communion there was a cross displayed on the screens.

I did not need my faithful earplugs and thought the praise worship was enjoyable. Also I could hear the words over the music. I particularly enjoyed the keyboardist as she smiled through most of the praise songs.

The sermon was well developed with good Scriptural references. The main points from Acts 15:15-35: the church was from Jewish law and tradition and met to see how to incorporate the Gentiles into the faith. There were some who wanted to burden the Gentiles with the very load from which Christ freed them. In their meeting they came to agreement on a few specifics that were acceptable to all without compromising their core beliefs. Perhaps the mainline churches should look closely at this idea. Standing for nothing does not grow churches.

Jan’s thoughts:

This campus of Pathway Church meets at a Catholic retreat center, so I imagine the weekly set-up and tear-down takes considerable dedication and work. It also meant a tour and seeking signage was meaningless, which worked out well since we arrived just about start time.

Still, there were worshipers outside who welcomed us as we entered, and additional greetings once we were inside where the pastor and several other gentlemen were setting up additional chairs.

Although not an order of worship, the bulletin is colorful and full of just about any sort of information one might want about this church. They are surely a busy group with all sorts of inviting events.

The music was excellent. In spite of sitting as far back as possible since we fully anticipated needing earplugs, but neither of us did. To me this is proof that the power of the music is not in the volume but in the words (which were large and white and readable even on gorgeous and colorful backgrounds) and the emotion with which the song is presented.

The message about “Essentials” was part of a series called “Real Church: Going Viral – A Teaching Series in the Book of Acts.” After opening with the replay of the viral video “Charlie Bit My Finger,” the points of the message were made: Christ’s sacrifice of His rights for our good is our standard and when we voluntarily limit our personal freedom, our sacrifice demonstrates maturity. We must lift our eyes beyond ourselves because letting go of self-interest is true freedom.

I was glad to participate in Communion, but the format was new to me. The words of institution and prayer were the same, but when the people went forward to partake, the elements were sitting on a table and everyone simply took a piece of bread and a cup, went back to their seat, and, as instructed, partook of the bread individually and the cup communally. I’m not sure yet what I think about that.

I appreciated meeting the pastor’s wife afterward, who is also a blogger, and am anxious to visit her blog.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we pray we all learn to embrace truth, consider others, and choose unity in Christ. Amen.

Sharon Community Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Sharon Community Presbyterian Church, 522 Carnot Road, Moon Twp., PA 15108, 412.264.7400, www.sharonpc.com, Rev. Roger P. Howard.

Scripture – Ezekiel 18:1-32

The word of the Lord came to me: “What do you people mean by quoting this proverb about the land of Israel:

“ ‘The parents eat sour grapes, and the children’s teeth are set on edge’? “

As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign Lord, you will no longer quote this proverb in Israel. For everyone belongs to me, the parent as well as the child—both alike belong to me. The one who sins is the one who will die.

“Suppose there is a righteous man who does what is just and right. He does not eat at the mountain shrines or look to the idols of Israel. He does not defile his neighbor’s wife or have sexual relations with a woman during her period. He does not oppress anyone, but returns what he took in pledge for a loan. He does not commit robbery but gives his food to the hungry and provides clothing for the naked. He does not lend to them at interest or take a profit from them. He withholds his hand from doing wrong and judges fairly between two parties. He follows my decrees and faithfully keeps my laws. That man is righteous; he will surely live, declares the Sovereign Lord.

“Suppose he has a violent son, who sheds blood or does any of these other things (though the father has done none of them):

“He eats at the mountain shrines. He defiles his neighbor’s wife. He oppresses the poor and needy. He commits robbery. He does not return what he took in pledge. He looks to the idols. He does detestable things. He lends at interest and takes a profit.

Will such a man live? He will not! Because he has done all these detestable things, he is to be put to death; his blood will be on his own head.

“But suppose this son has a son who sees all the sins his father commits, and though he sees them, he does not do such things:

“He does not eat at the mountain shrines or look to the idols of Israel. He does not defile his neighbor’s wife. He does not oppress anyone or require a pledge for a loan. He does not commit robbery but gives his food to the hungry and provides clothing for the naked. He withholds his hand from mistreating the poor and takes no interest or profit from them. He keeps my laws and follows my decrees.

He will not die for his father’s sin; he will surely live. But his father will die for his own sin, because he practiced extortion, robbed his brother and did what was wrong among his people.

“Yet you ask, ‘Why does the son not share the guilt of his father?’ Since the son has done what is just and right and has been careful to keep all my decrees, he will surely live. The one who sins is the one who will die. The child will not share the guilt of the parent, nor will the parent share the guilt of the child. The righteousness of the righteous will be credited to them, and the wickedness of the wicked will be charged against them.

“But if a wicked person turns away from all the sins they have committed and keeps all my decrees and does what is just and right, that person will surely live; they will not die. None of the offenses they have committed will be remembered against them. Because of the righteous things they have done, they will live. Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Sovereign Lord. Rather, am I not pleased when they turn from their ways and live?

“But if a righteous person turns from their righteousness and commits sin and does the same detestable things the wicked person does, will they live? None of the righteous things that person has done will be remembered. Because of the unfaithfulness they are guilty of and because of the sins they have committed, they will die.

“Yet you say, ‘The way of the Lord is not just.’ Hear, you Israelites: Is my way unjust? Is it not your ways that are unjust? If a righteous person turns from their righteousness and commits sin, they will die for it; because of the sin they have committed they will die. But if a wicked person turns away from the wickedness they have committed and does what is just and right, they will save their life. Because they consider all the offenses they have committed and turn away from them, that person will surely live; they will not die. Yet the Israelites say, ‘The way of the Lord is not just.’ Are my ways unjust, people of Israel? Is it not your ways that are unjust?

“Therefore, you Israelites, I will judge each of you according to your own ways, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, people of Israel? For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live!"

Bob’s thoughts:

I was glad to be led back to worship at Sharon Presbyterian Church. It is a pleasant sanctuary with a larger cross over grill work.

A welcome group stood at the door but they seemed to be waiting for us to make an overture.

There are two projection screens, however the one on the right was not readable.

The organ was so loud I couldn’t tell if my wife beside me was singing. Maybe it was because there were only a couple dozen in worship, but I was sorry I didn’t have earplugs.

The directional signage to the downstairs rest rooms was good; some of the other signage could only be seen from one direction.

The sermon could be summed up with the following quote: “God is not fair, thanks be to God.” We should all be grateful that we don’t get what we deserve but instead are granted His mercy.

It was announced that the pastor of 19 years had resigned. I am encouraged with the pastor’s plans; it will be a chance for rebirth for both him and the church. I hope we get to visit the church again and see how Christ is using them.

Jan’s thoughts:

We last visited this church about 7 years ago and today chose to attend the 8:30 service. Unfortunately some recent changes had affected attendance at this service.

As we walked in the door the narthex was full of things on display with some signs that likely indicated their purpose but were a mystery to me.

One gentleman, whom I guessed to be the greeter, stood in the narthex just outside the door to the sanctuary and the two ushers stood just inside that doorway. We entered and stood looking around the narthex but it was left to us to initiate the greetings. Once inside the sanctuary several others said hello, including the pastor.

Ornate wrought iron nearly covers the rear wall of the chancel and the white ceiling is accented with delicate-looking chandeliers.

As usual we sat toward the rear, but today the organ and pipes were in the rear balcony, so once the music began we quickly realized we should have sat closer to the front. I could feel the bass, so I think my issue with the volume was more than just my personal issue. During hymns it was impossible to know if anyone else was singing.

During the Passing of the Peace everyone present sort of met in the center aisle where all exchanged greetings.

Both projection screens were visible from where we sat, but the one on the right was drowned in light so I used the other. However the black-and-white background graphic made it difficult to read the white words being projected. The timing was excellent.

In the sermon entitled “God Desires Life; and Responsibility,” the pastor emphasized God’s desire for everyone to live but that we should refer to our disobedience as sin, not character flaws or mistakes as our culture has taken to doing.

During the time of Joys and Concerns, the gentleman who was the liturgist announced that the session had accepted the resignation of the pastor and encouraged the congregation to show their appreciation to the pastor.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we are so grateful that You do not give us what we deserve. Thanks be to You for Your grace. Amen.

Impact Christian Church

Today we worshiped at Impact Christian Church, 965 Thorn Run Road, Moon Township, PA 15108, 412.264.9392, www.impactchristian.com, Steve Hammer, Lead Pastor.

Scripture – Romans 12:1 (NCV)

So brothers and sisters, since God has shown us great mercy, I beg you to offer your lives as a living sacrifice to him. Your offering must be only for God and pleasing to him, which is the spiritual way for you to worship.

Bob’s thoughts:

We were welcomed as we entered and then by a number of others as well. We were then given a ticket for a free coffee and invited to bring it with us to worship.

The sanctuary is an arc with an ascending ceiling amplifying the focus, wood paneling on the ceiling matching the rear chancel wall. There is a large wooden cross to one side and the pews are comfortably padded.

The stage was decorated with auto parts which will relate to the series, this first being on worship. Today’s message related the tachometer to whether we as Christians are operating in the red zone…do we give our all for Christ? God doesn’t want meaningless ritual. He is looking for His followers to be completely committed, like the Marines – full force with no excuses...all we should be for an audience of One. Another good point – to carry your cross with you in case you need to be nailed to it.

The message developed well with supporting Scripture references and brought to good conclusion. I noticed a number of members taking notes and paying close attention.

Communion was served silently with both elements on the tray.

I noticed some good mission activities, including building a home for a needy family, and I enjoyed a conversation with a gracious woman at the welcome desk.

Jan’s thoughts:

The bright-colored signs caught my eye as I drove past this church on a recent detour to work. There was plenty of choice parking available when we arrived, but it filled quickly.

We were greeted warmly by a number of people, some of whom engaged us in conversation. As first-time guests we were given cards entitling us to a free coffee in the café area and then invited to take our coffee with us into the sanctuary.

The directional signage was helpful, and the rest room signs indicated that both had changing tables…funny how I now look for these things. The ladies room was attractively decorated, including a comfortable bench.

Mission seems to be high on the list of priorities here: someone put some time into creating a billboard detailing the various mission involvements and a number of missions were pointed out in the bulletin.

“Everything We Do Is Driven By You!” was the first message in the series “Redline Worship.” The title is a former Ford auto slogan but the “you” refers to Christ, and the redline mentioned is the indicator on the tachometer that a vehicle engine is running extremely fast. Once all these details were clear, the hubcaps on the rear wall of the chancel made a lot more sense.

The message was an encouragement to worship constantly, not just on Sunday, to surrender completely to Christ, give Him our full attention all the time with our whole hearts. The pastor spoke with passion, especially when he stated that when he meets Christ he does not want to hear, “You did okay.” He wants to be on fire and sold out for Christ, using his time here to bring glory to God. He encouraged the congregation to “refuse to settle for a puny little relationship with Jesus.”

I’ve not heard it put quite that way before, but he definitely had my attention. I can’t help but ask myself if I’ve been settling for a puny little relationship.

During Communion, my eye caught the phrase displayed on the screen: Please partake of the emblems as they are passed.

Our prayer for this church:
We pray, Lord, that you will awaken the Christian spirit of this church, that they will step out for You full force, no excuses. May they know the joy in serving You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Riverdale Church

Today we worshiped at Riverdale Church, 1555 Brodhead Road, Moon Township, PA 15108, 724.457.0207, www.riverdalechurch.org, Rev. Allan R. Drake.


Bob’s thoughts:

When we got to the door of the church and saw that the service was to be outdoors, we almost went looking for another church. It was God’s guidance that we stayed.

The grounds were well maintained with plenty of parking. Signage wasn’t bad but visitors could benefit from some directional signs. We benefitted immensely by Sean, the church AV person, who gave us a guided tour, introduced us to the pastor and some members, and provided some history of the church. I was very impressed with the youth area, some good, dedicated space. Other than the nursery it is probably the most important dedicated space.

The worship service was outdoors. Some people sat on folding chairs, most were on blankets. The mobile wooden cross from the Sanctuary was outside also. There was not an order of worship; I do not know if one is normally projected on the large screen. The offering was taken before the Word.

Being the father of identical twins, it brought a special joy to my heart to watch some very similar-looking children.

Some great contemporary worship songs were chosen, but little passion was shown by the congregation. My impression is that the youth program is just getting started so hopefully the passion will grow with it.

The message, from Luke 10, was busy Martha and attentive Mary, that perhaps the most important was Mary and our focus on Christ. It was a good, simple message that was presented well but ran on with repeating.

Other than mention of a mission trip to Mexico there was little evidence of outward mission; this seems to be an internal church. They have just hired a Discipleship Director who may help their focus. He and his wife certainly sang well together.


Jan’s thoughts:

What a perfectly gorgeous day! We arrived early enough to allow for a tour of the building prior to worship but were surprised to discover a sign on the front doors indicating today’s worship service would be held outside on the lawn. Personally, I briefly considered suggesting to Bob that we go to another church we’d considered, but then we encountered an enthusiastic gentleman who took the time to show us around the building so I decided not to bring up the idea.

The facilities are beautiful and well kept with a truly gorgeous Sanctuary boasting lots and lots of stained glass. The padded pews are arranged at an angle, the cathedral ceiling is wood, and the balcony houses the permanent set-up of some impressive sound, lighting, and other audio/visual equipment and computers, for which our guide was responsible.

One wing of the building is devoted to the youth, and the two rooms we were shown were imaginatively decorated. One was a game room with foosball and several other activities and games, and the other was a café boasting bar-type seating, a kitchen area, and round tables with additional seats. Instead of paint on a couple of the walls, there was a huge blackboard. I could totally see youth having a blast in these areas.

We were told that the motto of Riverdale is “Come as you are,” so dress was not an issue (had I known I would’ve worn my jeans), and the worship is always contemporary in format. Surprisingly, this is the second church we’ve encountered recently that has chosen to forgo traditional worship altogether.

The atmosphere was relaxed but not overly friendly. A few women in front of us acknowledged us without actually saying hello and another woman several seats away initiated some conversation, but the only other people who spoke to us at all were the ones to whom we were specifically introduced.

The worship service was held outdoors with some large speakers aimed at a slight hillside where most of the people sat on blankets. There were some chairs off to the side for the older folks or anyone who didn’t want to sit: 1. on a blanket on the ground, 2. in the sun, or 3. in front of the large speakers. We sat on the chairs because we fell into all three categories.

The music was uplifting (strictly contemporary) and included a favorite of mine, “Days of Elijah,” which I love and haven’t sung in some time. The pastor played guitar and led in the singing as well…he’s very gifted. Lots of children came down for the children’s sermon, and we had been told that there’s never a problem with the children staying with parents throughout the service, even if they make some noise.

Since there was no bulletin, I don’t know the title of the sermon. It was based on the story of Martha and Mary and Martha’s request of Jesus that He tell Mary to help her with the work. Instead, however, Jesus told Martha that Mary was doing the more important thing in spending time with Him. The pastor pointed out that many in the congregation were leading “Martha” lives and needed to re-arrange their priorities to make time for “the more important thing” (spending time with Jesus). He said he understood this because the Holy Spirit had recently convicted him of this, so he was fervent in his efforts to persuade his flock to also take steps in this direction. Knowing nothing of the lives of anyone in the congregation, I won’t argue with him.

However, the sermon did make me ask if perhaps my life is too Martha-like, which I suppose is the point – to get us to at least ask the question. Hopefully, when God answers the question the ears of my heart will be open to hearing His response.