Hello Cedar Grove family!

Well, it happened. I didn't get the email out by 7 a.m. Monday morning. No, I am not happy about that. Yes, I realize it is the first Monday of the year. However, may I divert your attention to what God did yesterday. We baptized, accepted new membership, worshipped and heard from the Word of God. In a morning when it could have been tempting to stay home, we had a great crowd gathered. Praise the Lord.

Now let's think about the message. Reconciliation is a beautiful thing. It is a biblical practice for those who follow Jesus. It is the repair manual for when the church becomes divided or members are hurt by other members. It is not optional. It is required for the believer. I challenge you again today to go, make it right. When God puts it on your heart, that is what needs to be done. There are many ways to handle certain situations. Some situations require much time off preparation. Not reconciliation. Reconciliation only requires an obedient and humble heart. Let us be reminded of scripture...

23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.

The Holy Bible: King James Version, Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version. (Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 2009), Mt 5:22–24.15 

Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. 16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.

The Holy Bible: King James Version, Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version. (Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 2009), Mt 18:15–17.

Church, do not let pride keep you disobedient. Make what has been wronged right in the name of Jesus! Easy? No. Worth it? Yes. So, who has God reminded you of?

Thank you for loving Jesus with me. I pray today is a day of blessing and honor to the Lord who saved us from our sin. Enjoy the beautiful flurries God has sent our way. As always, happy in the Lord, amen. Buh-bye.

Pastor Jacob Lannom