On Sunday evening, June 6th, I tried something I have been wanting to do for a while. In an effort to help our people grow in appreciation of the hymns we sing, I preached a sermon based on the text of one of our well known hymns, “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing.” Many of the arguments people have against singing hymns are based on the assertion that hymns are dull and dry. I would agree with that statement if you do not put out the effort to focus on the words you are singing. Rich spiritual blessing is available to those who apply their minds while singing hymns.
If you are interested, you may listen to that sermon here. God has blessed us with men and women who have put rich theological truths to text and tune through which the Word of God may grow in our hearts. I believe our people as well as myself received a great blessing meditating on the thoughts. I hope that you will also!
We are planning to have our regular Bible study and prayer meeting at our home tomorrow evening. Patrick Geisenburg will be sharing a lesson he prepared on 1 John 2. Look forward to seeing you there!
We are pleased to announce the arrival of our son: Titus Matthew Rowley! God answered our prayers and gave us a healthy son and mommy! We arrived at the hospital around 9:00pm Monday evening and he was born at 3:13am July 6th. He weighted 6 lbs. 12 oz. and measured 20 inches long! He shares his birthday with his mom! Jen says he is the best birthday present ever! Thank you Lord and thank you for your prayers!
Dear Friends,
Jen and I are at the hospital having a baby! Please pray for a safe and healthy delivery for mom and baby. We arrived a the hospital around 9:00 pm Monday evening. Things are progressing well. Lord willing, Jen and baby Titus will share a birthday! Jen says this is the best birthday present ever! We are excited about the prospect of another family member and will keep you posted along the way.
Love,
Matt and Jen
Reading through the book of 1 Samuel I came across an interesting verse in 1 Samuel 5:5 – “Therefore neither the priests of Dagon nor all who enter Dagon’s house tread on the threshold of Dagon in Ashdod to this day.” I am always amazed at the devotion of pagans to false gods! They superstitiously worship and direct their lives according to those who don’t even exist! (i.e. Muslims, Buddists, etc.)
I worship and serve the living and true God, the Creator (Genesis 1:1)! No one or anything can even begin to compare to the greatness of my God (Isaiah 57:15; 40:12-31). How devoted am I to Him? Do I worship and honor Him? Do I direct my life according to His desires? He is clearly the Living and True God (1 Samuel 5:4)!
