From Pastor Dan

On Palm Sunday a smile comes to us because the joy and celebration is so visible as Jesus rides into Jerusalem – yet Jesus still knows what lay ahead for him. He can still smile, because he can see further ahead than the cross.

This morning – Dave Engle, our Bronze Voices Director, will be sharing about the history of Bells – in scripture, in the church, and in the world! The ringing of the bells has always been a part of worshipping God and of celebrating Jesus – His birth, His Resurrection and His presence with us always!

Jesus comes before the High Priest after His arrest. The question today is how did He respond? How do we respond when we are in front of those who question who we are and whom we belong to? Truth should always be the response!

As Jesus is arrested, He is, for some reason, not recognized by his accusers. He clarifies who He is to the soldiers. Jesus is concerned for all those with Him more than He is concerned for Himself – and so it is still to this day for all of us!

“Suddenly, God’s angel stood among them (the shepherds) and God’s glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, ‘Don’t be afraid. I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David’s town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master. This is what you’re to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger.’ At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God’s praises. ‘GLORY TO GOD IN THE HEAVENLY HEIGHTS, PEACE TO ALL MEN AND WOMEN ON EARTH WHO PLEASE HIM!’” (Luke 2:9-14 from the MESSAGE)

“You were like sheep that wandered away, but now you have come back to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls. (1 Peter 2:25)

“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:” (1 Peter 4:10)

“He climbed the high mountain, He captured the enemy and seized the plunder, He handed it all out in gifts to the people. Is it not true that the One who climbed up also climbed down, down to the valley of earth? And the One who climbed down is the One who climbed back up, up to highest heaven. He handed out gifts above and below, filled heaven with his gifts, filled earth with his gifts.” (Ephesians 4:8-10 from “The Message”)