Lent 2010 - Day 4

Extravagance!!!

The first century was a very poor time. The Jews were being driven into poverty by the Roman Empire. But once in a while, the New Testament gives us a picture of extravagance. This happens in the story of the woman who anointed Jesus just before he was tried, denied, betrayed and crucified (Mark 14: 3-9; Luke 7:37-47; John 12:1-8; Matt. 26:2-16). In this simple party, this lowly woman unveils a display of greatest extravagance.

True Praise and Worship requires an Expression of:
a. Extravagant Sacrifice
b. Extravagant Love
c. Extravagant Brokenness

Lent 2010 - Day 3

The Aroma of Worship

Matt 26:2-16; Mark 14:3-9; Luke 7:37-47; John 12:1-8

(We again turn our attention on the story of the woman who came to Jesus and anointed him with a wonderful perfume)

Lent 2010 - Day 2

For the next three days, I want to concentrate on an episode that happened immediately prior to Jesus' trials, betrayal, and suffering. It even occurred prior to the "last supper" Jesus had with the disciples. I love this episode because it includes a very human snapshot in the life of Jesus. And the person who changes the atmosphere ends up being the least likely candidate. I call this episode: Lessons from a Lady of the Night who turned to the Light.

Lent 2010 – Day 1

Dear Ventura First Family,

Today is Ash Wednesday! I was raised in a predominantly Roman Catholic community. On Ash Wednesday, everyone walked around with a black "smudge" on his or her foreheads. As a child, I never fully grasped the concept of Ash Wednesday or Lent. Lent is the 40-day period preceding the Easter weekend, which is dedicated to preparing our hearts and souls for a sacred remembrance of that holy day. This is why people often "give up" things like special foods or activities for the 40 days of Lent.

Happy New Year!

I read a letter from a child: "Dear God, I didn't think orange went with purple until I saw the sunset you made on Tuesday! That was cool! Love, Eugene" My prayer for us is that God blows your imagination with all sorts of things this year that we could have never dreamed or ever expected! Solomon claimed:"Each day new mercies I see!" - May each day in 2010 be that way for you - filled with the awesome glories of God!
Pastor Tony

Christmas Greeting