March 03 - For the Glory of the Lord

"By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples." - John 15:8

In 1988 Twila Paris wrote a song that sums up what Jesus was teaching in John 15:8. The song, For the Glory of the Lord, proclaims clearly why God created us:
For the glory of the Lord we have been created,
Living text of written Word, mercy demonstrated.
We are made a channel where His grace is poured,
Witness of salvation,
For the glory of the Lord, for the glory of the Lord.

For the glory of the Lord willingly we suffer,
Laid upon this holy cross, dying with our brother,
His divine fulfillment our complete reward,
Crucified, rejoicing, for the glory of the Lord,
For the glory of the Lord.

For the glory of the Lord we advance united,
Following Christ's blazing sword,
His dominion sighted.
All that has been taken, it shall be restored.
This eternal anthem for the glory of the Lord,
For the glory of the Lord, for the glory of the Lord.

As we meditate on 'stewardship' issues over these next weeks, please remember that it is not about a building that we pray; it is not about money even, but it is the glory of the Lord that we seek. That is best expressed in the realization that we are, as the song says, 'a channel where His grace is poured', a 'witness of salvation,' and 'living text of written Word' reflecting Christ in our giving and in our living for His glory. As a church this capital stewardship campaign is an opportunity for us to 'advance untied' following Christ for the sake of ministry that all may be restored for His glory. We will best reflect His glory not through building a building, but through bearing much fruit. A part of that fruit is giving of time, talents, and funds in ministry so that God may be glorified. Matthew 5:16 reminds us, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." Truly, may God be glorified in us through this stewardship campaign.

Prayer - Lord, may I reflect your glory as I give to this work so that your kingdom may advance, that your dominion might be expanded, and that you might be glorified in me. In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.

- Ray Cureton