Perry’s Scope: Christian sermons, lessons, and resources for teachers

Some years ago I heard a sermon regarding God’s hand in the history of the USA. It really sparked my interest because I am patriotic. I come from a line of patriots going all the way back to the Revolution. I had ancestors on both sides of the Civil War; uncles who fought in in Europe during WWII (one of whom came ashore with the artillery�on D-Day); a Dad who entered the Navy during the occupation phase of the War and served in Korea and made the Navy his career; plus, his mother’s name was “America”!

With such a background and love for American history, when I hear of the hand of God in the life of this country, I cannot help but be interested. God certainly works out his purposes in his time. Who knows all of the reasons that he was with our fledgling country. The evidence is that he was and the people who were there attributed the events of the time to his Providence�Perhaps if we remember our beginnings, it will encourage us to return to our roots.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Have you ever heard the statement, “No one is irreplaceable!”? In one sense that is true (see Esther 4:14). However, there are certain types of�people without whom a church cannot get along. If these people are missing from our ranks, the church will be a desolate place. Are you one?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

This summer we are having a series of lessons with a focus on the cross of Christ. I started this series with this lesson on “Cross Country.” As people of the cross we realize that everything we do or say is based on the cross. All that heaven will provide is based on the cross.

It was at the cross that Jesus shed his blood. It was at the cross that the sacrifice for sins was made. It was at the cross that God’s “passover lamb” was offered for us.

Of course, the beauty of all of this is that the cross was not the finality of Jesus. He rose from the dead! The tomb is empty and we have hope for life (now and in eternity) because Jesus lives.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

On Saturday, December 13, 1862 at the battle of Fredericksburg, a young Confederate soldier demonstrated a risky act of compassion. No longer able to withstand the wrenching moans of the wounded and dying Union soldiers, 19 year old Confederate Richard Kirkland of the 2nd South Carolina approached Brigadier General Joseph Kershaw, CSA, to seek permission to go to their aid. Initially hesitant, the General acquiesced, refusing however to allow the white flag that would ensure his safety. Despite the danger, Kirkland sprang forward over the stone wall with canteens full and ventured out between the hostile lines.

At first, Federals fired upon the young man but ceased as they soon discovered his merciful intent. Then cheers rang out from both sides as the man to become known as the “Angel of Marye’s Heights” offered water to one adversary after another. After helping those that he could, he crossed back to safety, and resumed his duties as a Confederate soldier defending his lines.

Compassion is generally risky. When Jesus came into the world to “save sinners” he risked everything. He certainly risked his life but he also risked rejection and every negative emotion. Yet, he entered “enemy territory” to bring living water to wounded, broken people.

What are we willing to risk to share the same compassion?

Keep The Light Burning
Perry Greene