The Perfect Day

Dr, Mike Murphy

September 27, 2025

Recently I asked several people, “What would be your perfect day?” Some of their answers made me smile.  One woman told me that perfection would come if for just one day she could get her husband and her children to actually listen to her.  Another elderly woman told me that her perfect day would be finding a spot close to the door when she went to the local Walmart.  One first grade teacher told me that her perfect day would be not having to use the words ‘be quiet” more than twenty times.  One man told me that his would involve the words “lottery” and “jackpot”.  While another man told me his perfect day would only come when the Marlins again won the World Series.  As a big sports fan, I quickly let him know that his perfect day would first require a miracle!

After hearing many responses, one thing quickly became apparent.  Each had a different definition of perfection.  Some defined perfection in the lives of others, while some saw it only occurring when it involved their own life.  

With this in mind, I looked up the definition of the word perfect.  Merriam-Webster describes perfect as “flawless, to be made complete”.  So by this definition. for someone to experience perfection, one would first have to be made flawless, they would have to be made complete.  So what makes us complete? How can we recognize perfection if we have never seen it?   

Only One who is perfect can show us what perfection looks like.  And only One who is perfect, could ever show us what is needed to stand perfect in His sight.  Each day, Christ shows us a glimpse of that perfection, and gives us a little glimpse of what that perfection could look like in our lives. Each day, Christ shows us the patience that perfection requires.  The patience it takes to understand each of us, and to give us a way to overcome our imperfections. Sometimes, He shows us a glimpse of this perfection in a single moment.  While other times, it requires patience, taking us a lifetime to understand.

To best understand perfection, we need to look no farther than the writings of an imperfect man.  A man by the name of David.  It would be hard to find a more imperfect man than David.  But at times, the Lord gives us a glimpse of perfection as He worked through the life of David.  I often ask myself, why was the Lord so patient with David?  And how did the Lord often achieve such perfection through the life of such an imperfect man?  The answer is quite simple! David knew his imperfection, but he also knew where he could find perfection. David knew that perfection could only be found in the name of the Lord!  

Anyone who may doubt this, need look no farther than David’s own words. They need only to read the twenty-third Psalm.  Let us take a look at the words of David in this psalm, and see the perfection that David describes.

The Lord Is My Shepherd(Perfect Salvation)

Sheep were completely at the mercy of the shepherd.  As a shepherd, David understood this well.  He knew that the very life of the sheep depended on the shepherd.  The shepherd, feed and tended to the sheep.  The fields of ancient Israel were filled with roaming beasts, that would attack the sheep.  It was the shepherd that protected the sheep.  He was willing to lay down his life so that the sheep could live.  The shepherd also knew that sheep were easily frightened, and could easily become confused.  Sheep would often become lost, and could be lead astray by outside distractions.  The shepherd would keep the flock in sight, guiding them to where they needed to be.

It is no mistake that Christ is called the Good Shepherd(John 10:1-18, Hebrew 13:20).  It is Christ who pulls us close, and gave His life so that we may live.  He offers us guidance, and keeps us from the evil of this world.  In Christ we see our Shepherd, and we see our perfect salvation!

Two other words of this verse I want us to also look at.  David writes the word “is”.  Not that the Lord “was” or “will be”, but “is” our Shepherd.  David knew that the Lord was right there, with him every minute, guiding his every step. Also, look at the word ”my”.  David tells us the Lord is “my” shepherd.  Not that the Lord is the shepherd of the flock, but is a shepherd who looks after each of His sheep. David tells us that God is our ‘personal shepherd”, that His perfect salvation is for each of us.

I Shall Not Want(Perfect Fulfillment)

When the sheep were hungry, the shepherd feed them.  When they were cold, the shepherd found them warmth.  And when the sheep were tired, the shepherd found them a place of peaceful rest.  The shepherd provided for the needs of the sheep.  When we, as believers in Christ, follow our Shepherd, we have the promise that He will provide us with everything we will need(Luke 12:22-30).  The Lord not only provides us with everything we will need to find Him, but to live our life for Him.  In Christ, every need is fulfilled, because He alone is our perfect fulfillment.

He Maketh Me To Lie Down In Green Pastures(Perfect Rest)

When we look at the landscape around Bethlehem, we soon realize that green pastures were not around every corner.  The shepherd would have to lead the sheep through trying terrain so that the sheep could find the nourishment and comfort that the green pastures offered. The same is with us today.  In our hectic world, Christ often has to slow us down, giving us a moment to be fed by His Word(Matthew 4:4), and a time to rest in His Presence(Hebrews 4:9-10). Only in Christ do we find the nourishment to sustain us, and the perfect rest to replenish and comfort us.

He Leadeth Me Beside The Still Waters(Perfect Peace)

Despite how thirsty they may become, sheep will not drink from moving waters.  So often the shepherd would dam up or block the streams so that the waters would become still, and the sheep would drink.  In Christ, we find our still and living waters(John 4:14), the quiet of His Presence that brings us perfect peace.

He Restoreth My Soul(Perfect Restoration)

When the shepherd had lead the sheep to the lush pastures, and they had been brought to still waters, the sheep would become calm, taking comfort in the situation they found themselves in.  Their life and energy would be restored, preparing them for the next day.  In Christ we find our redeeming grace, the words and waters that replenish and restore us, preparing us for whatever may lie ahead.  In the fields that Christ has lead us, and in the waters that only Christ can offer us, we find our perfect restoration.

He Leadeth Me In The Paths Of Righteousness For His Name’s Sake(Perfect Guidance)

The Hebrew word used here for paths actually means “well traveled paths”.  Sometimes the shepherd would have to lead the sheep great distances in order to find the fields and water they needed.  As he did, the shepherd would take his sheep on proven paths, those that had been traveled many times before. The shepherd knew these paths well, as he had traveled these paths his whole life.  He knew these paths would keep his sheep from dangers, and he knew the trouble that could lie on other paths.

Like the shepherd, Christ guides us down proven paths, paths that steer us away from the dangers of the world around us.  Paths that are safe, the trusted “paths of righteousness”. Our Shepherd knows these paths like the back of His hand, and offers us perfect guidance.

Yea, Though I Walk Through The Valley Of The Shadow Of Death, I Will Fear No Evil(Perfect Shelter)

Sheep often made easy targets for the predators that roamed the area. And when not threatened by predators, sheep could often be their worst enemies. When not watched over constantly, sheep would often wander off on their own. As they did, they would often become fearful and startled, some so frightened it would cause them to have a heart attack, bringing on their own death.  Knowing this, the shepherd would gather the sheep to him, protecting them from the predators that could lie in the darkness.

Our world today is also filled with predators, agents of Satan that lie in the darkness waiting to strike(1 Peter 5:8).   In the protective hands of Christ, evil cannot find a way to attack us, and a way to destroy us.  Through Christ’ perfect shelter, we are safeguarded from the dangers this world would bring our way.

For Thou Art With Me(Perfect Companionship)

Each day, the shepherd would often speak aloud, enabling the sheep to feel secure by hearing his voice.  It reminded the sheep of his presence, and they took comfort that he was always nearby.  The same is with us today.  We can take comfort that Christ is always close, and walks each step we take with us. We hear His voice as He is there to comfort us, to calm our fears, to give us encouragement, and to remind us of His ways.  Each day we hear Him speak, and we know that right besides us stands our perfect companion.

Thy Rod And Thy Staff They Comfort Me(Perfect Comfort)

From the moment a boy began to train to become a shepherd, he carried a rod and a staff.  The rod was used for protection, and could be deadly in the hands of a gifted shepherd. The shepherd would also use the rod for another very important purpose.  As the sheep would pass by, the shepherd would hold the rod over the sheep, using it to help him count each.  This brought his attention to each sheep, ensuring he knew and recognized all as part of his fold.

The staff quickly identified the shepherd.  No other profession has ever had the need to carry a piece of equipment like a staff.  The staff was ideal to care for and manage sheep.  With its’ length, the shepherd would use it to guide the sheep.  Tapping them on the side as they went, keeping each in line.  The hooked end also served a special purpose.  With it the shepherd could gently, but firmly, pull the sheep back to him as it began to stray.  And it enabled the shepherd to lift a young lamb out of danger, placing him back near the comfort of his mother and the other sheep.

In the hands of our skilled Shepherd, the rod and staff protect us the same today.  He uses them to protect us from the evil and dangers around us, and to gentle bring us back into the fold when we begin to stray.  Keeping a count of us, knowing when even one of us are not there.  We find perfect comfort when we look at Christ, and see the rod and the staff He has in His hands.

Thou Preparest A Table Before Me In The Presence Of Mine Enemies(Perfect Provision)

We have seen as David described to us the perfect shepherd, now he shows us the perfect host.  Despite what many may think, the two did go hand in hand.  As people would travel the countryside from city to city, it was often the shepherd who would serve as their host. Offering them the comfort of his house or tent, and the hospitality of his table.  Custom taught that once a man entered your dwelling, he could no longer be viewed as your enemy, but only as your valued guest.  The value of the guest went beyond measure, and the host would protect the guest with his very life.  All the host had was available to the guest; his home, his food, his fellowship, and his protection.

No matter what we may have done, or what we may have said, when we accept the Lord’s invitation and enter His presence, we become His valued guest. As we find ourselves a guest in His house, we soon discover the mercy and the grace of our Host.  His offers us all He has, and gives us all we need.  In His house we lack for nothing, and find that all is provided for us.

Thou Anointest My Head With Oil(Perfect Blessing)

As a guest arrived in your house, one of the greatest honors you could bestow on them would be to anoint their head with oil.  It showed the value you shared for your esteemed guest, and placed them in a position of honor.  It showed your guest that you viewed their presence the same as if your house was being visited by a king or a priest.  

As we, today, accept Christ’ invitation, and enter His house, we too are anointed with oil(1 John 2:20).  We are made to be kingdom priest(Revelation 1:6), and we are given the perfect blessing of knowing that we will reign with Christ forever.

My Cup Runneth Over(Perfect Joy)

As the host sat his guest at his table and welcomed them, he would overflow their cup.  This showed his guest they were welcome to all he had, and could stay as long as they wanted.

As we sit at the Lord’s table, we watch as He overflows our cup.  He offers us all He has in abundance, and assures us that His house is now ours(John 14:3).  We can take joy in the assurance that our cup overflows.

Surely Goodness And Mercy Shall Follow Me All The Days Of My Life(Perfect Care)

As the guest was so graciously welcomed, he would often reply, “Your goodness surrounds me”.  He was telling his host that his act was unselfish, giving of himself so freely showed a goodness that blessed all those around him.

As we find ourselves at the Lord’s table, we cannot help but see and feel His goodness. His mercy and grace so overwhelms our life, that His goodness shows in each of us.  There is no goodness that does not start with the hands of the Lord(James 1:17).  And as a guest at His table, we have the promise of having a place at that table each of our eternal days(John 3:16). We have the promise that the Lords perfect care will always be there, filling each of us with His goodness.

And I Will Dwell In The House Of The Lord Forever(Perfect Future)

As we read this verse, we watch as David took the graciousness of the host to a level no man could know or understand through his own logic.  There was once a famous Greek saying that said, “Guest are like a fish, after three days they begin to stink.”  A guest in the Lord’s house is not just welcome for three days, or three weeks, or even for three years.  We receive an everlasting invitation, we are welcome in His house forever.   Forever is an amount of time most of us can never imagine.  But we have the promise that an eternity as a guest in the Lord’s House will be nothing short of amazing(1 Corinthians 2:9). We have the promise of a perfect future.

No one can read this psalm and not see the true understanding that David had of the Lord’s plan of perfection for each of our lives. The love and desire that David had for the Lord. His yearning to change the imperfect man he knew he was, to the perfect man the Lord knew he would one day be.  The eternal perfection that David knew he would one day experience at the Shepherd’s house. But David’s story should not surprise us.  His story is each of our stories. Each of us see the Lord’s perfection as His hand moves in our lives.  Sometimes we see a glimpse of that perfection in the most peaceful of times, when His perfect rest and His perfect joy envelopes us.  Other times we feel that perfection in the most turbulent of times, when His perfect guidance and His perfect comfort encompasses us.

As we watch the chaos of this world around us, I pray each of you will seek a glimpse of perfection.  That each of you will seek the Lord’s face, and that each of you will find His plan of perfection.  I pray that each of you will accept the invitation that is awaiting you to the Shepherd’s house.  That you will find your way to His table, and smile as your cup overflows. That your eyes will water as His anointing oil runs down your face.  I pray that one day I will share with each of you the joy and experience of a true perfect day!

Praying David’s words will become your words!

Thoughts And Prayers....

Dr. Mike Murphy

August 31, 2025

With each passing tragedy, we watch as so many take to social media to offer their thoughts and prayers.  To give their heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who were injured, or whose life was tragically taken. To ask the Lord to bring peace to our nation, at a time when that peace seems to be at a growing distance from us.

But with each recent prayer offered for the devastation we see, I hear more and more people mocking our thoughts and prayers.  Telling everyone who will listen, that their thoughts and prayers are useless. Letting all loudly know, they do not want to hear, or desire to see, our thoughts and prayers being offered.  That action, not our prayer, is what is now needed. And this mocking movement has now become so strong, we even see ministers joining in. Quick in their efforts to make sure all hear, that if “thoughts and prayers” are all we are willing to offer, to just keep silent, and keep our thoughts and prayers to ourselves.

As I read each of these comments, my heart sinks.  And with each of their mocking words, I find that it is the presence of my knees that is needed more than ever.  Realizing that the heartbreak of each of these tragedies has yet to end, but continues in each of their words. Knowing that the damage from each bullet or bomb, earthquake or hurricane, carry no more destruction that what we hear in each of their mocking words.  And as the Lord fills my mind and my heart with the truth of each situation, I soon realize that my thoughts and prayers are exactly what this nation needs more of.

To say that each tragedy we see does not need our thoughts and prayers, brings us face to face with someone who does not understand the power that prayer holds.  That does not understand the purpose that each prayer brings. And face to face with someone who does not realize that the action of His hand holds more hope and change, than the actions of our hands could ever begin to bring.

Prayer offers real hope, because prayer finds us in direct communication with a very real God. Prayer that brings us into personal and conscious contact with our Father, the Creator and Director of this universe.  Who daily holds in His hands the ability to do real work in the heart and mind of man. And who alone holds the wisdom to give real answers to the questions that man so often has. Prayer not only finds us in communication with the One who holds all the answers, it finds us in fellowship with the only One who can direct us toward the needed actions.

Those who do not want our “thoughts and prayers”, so quickly forget that prayer can only be sought in faith(James 1:6).  Finding us turning to God for answers without doubts that He holds those answers. Prayer that is not only grounded in the depths of our faith, but finds us calling on His name(John 16:23), as we seek a power of healing and hope that only the Holy Spirit can bring(Romans 8:26).  Knowing that within the wickedness of this world is found no desire to pray(Psalm 10:4), but within the hearts of those who call Him by name, a desire for us to turn to Him in prayer will always be present(Luke 11:1).

When tragedy comes our way, we pray not because He is a passing thought, but when we find ourselves staring tragedy in the face, He stands as our only thought.  Knowing that with each prayer we seek His favor, pouring out our soul, and crying out to Him as our greatest desire is to draw Him near(Psalm 73:28). Praying He will hold us close, not only through the loss we feel, but close enough to hear each word from Him of the guidance we seek. Guidance that will not leave us acting impulsively by the action of our own hand today, but guidance that will steady and correct our path as we seek to continue to follow His hand tomorrow.

Thoughts and prayers that have us remembering the words of Paul that tell us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”(Philippians 4:6-7).  Words that fill our thoughts and consume our prayers, because in the midst of any tragedy we might face, leave us worrying about nothing, but praying about everything. Words that leave us praying without ceasing(1 Thessalonians 5:17), because we know that in Him, alone, we will find the answer to all things. Even the answers to the tragedies in front of us, that we just cannot understand.

Our thoughts and prayers are not just mere words in passing, but are our petition to God on the behalf of those we hurt and feel sorrow for.  Prayers that not only let God know the tragedy we see, but where we stand, and ask for His direction on where our stand should be. Prayers that finds us in the face of devastation, humbling admitting to our Lord, that He is greater than we are ever capable of being.  Prayers that know the best outcome will be found in the guidance and patience of His will, not in the impulsive reaction of our own will. Prayer, that seeks in the midst of the tragedy and chaos we see around us, to align our actions and our words fully with our Lord’s will(1 John 5:14-15).

So the next time you see tragedy come to the lives of those around you, or to our nation, do not hesitate to offer your thoughts and prayers.  Because each offer sees us placing our trust in His hands, not thinking the answer will be found in our own. Knowing that the peace and comfort so desperately needed for those the tragedy has brought hurt and agony to, will and can only be found in His arms, unable to be found in our own.  And knowing that the answers we seek so we will not face this same tragedy tomorrow, will only be found in us seeking His perfect wisdom, not in thinking our own failed logic holds all the solutions. And as you offer your thoughts and prayers, if you hear someone mocking you for doing so, let that person know, they are also in your thoughts and prayers.  Because their words show you, it is not His Word that is guiding them, it is their own.

“When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.”  Psalm 56:3

The Status Of A King, The Duty Of A Servant

Dr. Mike Murphy

August 9, 2025

Compassion and charity!  “How can you look at that situation and not feel compassion?”  “I give to our church, and I think our church is involved in a lot of charity!”  “I pay taxes, and I know my taxes go to charity.”  Words we hear used so often these days, but words that are often said without meaning.  In a world that never sees beyond the next few minutes, these are words that have come to describe our own thoughts rather than seen reflected in our true actions. Words that fill our immediate feel good wants, instead of focusing on the Lord’s life changing needs.  As we hear these words so often spoken, how much do we know exactly what these words mean?  And what does the Bible tell us about each word?

Although both words tug on the heart of man, each word has a distinct meaning.  The Hebrew word for compassion means, “tender mercies".  While the Greek word means, “to feel inwardly”.  From the first word of Genesis, to the last word of Revelation, we see the compassion of the Lord shown.  We see His tender mercy, and His inward love for all mankind. Man, as one who is made in God’s image, is to mirror and demonstrate each of the traits we see in the Lord, including compassion.  The Bible makes it clear, compassion is an attribute of the Lord, and should be an attribute that is found in each of us.  Compassion causes us to stop and look, and draws our attention to a need that the Lord wants us to see.

The Bible describes charity as “an act of compassion”.  Charity is when we put the compassion we feel into actions that will help others.  When we care for those in need, we act on the will of the Lord.  The willingness we show to help those in true need, is a direct reflection of our salvation and of the Holy Spirit at work in each of us.

But with each feeling of compassion, we are not to act without wisdom and discernment. We are not to give blindly to every want, but to seek the Lord’s will for true needs.  We must act as good stewards, making sure our coin, time and talent is being used to fulfill God’s purpose, and to bring glory to His name. We must also never forget, the Lord can call us to charity in many ways. Sometimes our greatest charitable acts can be found in the most unusual of ways. Remember the story of the lame beggar that Peter and John encountered(Acts 3:1-10). Remember Peter’s words to this man, “I do not possess silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you:”(Acts 3:6).  What the Lord led Peter to give this man, was greater than any coin could buy!  And the Lord is often leading us the same today.  When we look at all the gifts the Lord gives us, gifts we may use to serve others in need today, we begin to understand the true purpose of these gifts, and just how far the Lord’s love reaches!

When we come to truly understand compassion and charity, we come to understand the role Christ calls us to today.  We come to understand that charity does not draw attention to ourselves, but to the Lord’s desire in the lives of others.  We come to understand that our compassion cannot turn to charity unless we are willing to serve.  Christ tells us, “It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”(Matthew 20:26-28). If our role is to reflect Christ, then His words tells us that we must become a servant.  Just as Christ came to serve, and to give His life, we are to give our lives in service of Him, and to help fulfill His need in the lives of our fellow man.

The word used in the Bible for servant means “slave”.  Although not every servant is a slave, we do know that every slave is a servant.  But like a slave, we must lessen ourselves and be willing to serve at the feet of our Master.  The problem in the Church today, we see way too many who seek to be leaders without first making themselves servants.  Paul said, “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.”(Philippians 2:3-4).  In other words, in order to serve Christ, we must have a heart to serve others.

So what does it mean to be a servant of Christ?  Let us take a look at what the Bible tells us about such a servant, and what characteristics should be found in each of us.

A servant must be found with a humble heart.  

The word in the Bible for humble means, “lowliness of mind, absence of self”.  Humility is not defined by our outward approach, but by our inward actions.  For a humble heart to be found, pride and selfish ambition must first be destroyed.  The humble hearted servant looks first to the Master, not to himself. Christ’ needs becomes his wants.  He soon comes to realize that what is best for the Master, is best for him.  His obedience leads him to defend the truth and reputation of his Master, not the egos and desires of himself.  The humble hearted servant knows that in true humility is found grace(Proverbs 3:34, 1 Peter 5:5), and that in the humbleness of his heart is found fulfillment and security.

The humble hearted servant is not led to charity, charity is a part of his very being.  He knows that charity allows this world to see Christ  The reflection of his Master is seen in the action he takes, and can be found in the work the Lord calls him to do.  He knows that to share Christ with others, is to show the world the goodness and love of his Master.  A goodness and love that he could not find in his own heart had the Master not chose to first serve him.

A servant must be found with an honest heart.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts.”(Psalm 139:23).  The servant knows that true compassion and charity do not exist in a feeling, but are placed in our heart by the hand of the Master. He knows that for compassion to be made more than mere words it requires a desire of the Spirit.  That charity can not be forced, but must be freely given. Therefore charity can never come from any form of government, but must come willingly from each of us.  The Master has also taught him, charity may starts with compassion, but it must end with accountability.  Compassion may lead us to give the hungry man a fish, but the servant knows that the Master desires us to teach that man how to fish, so that his life will be forever changed.  The servant does not pity those in need, but brings them to the door of the his Master.  He seeks to offer more than a hand out and a handshake, but the daily life sustaining bread that only his Master makes each day.  The servant knows the words his Master gave his fellow servant Peter, telling Peter those who love Him, will tend to His sheep(John 21:15-17).

A servant must be found with an unselfish heart.

"Whoever receives this child in My name receives Me, and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me; for the one who is least among all of you, this is the one who is great."(Luke 9:48).  The Master has taught his servant that greatness cannot be defined in worldly terms.  He knows that if the Lord was to rank the greatest among us in each of our churches today, His order would surprise us.  He knows that many who pastor our churches would probably find their name way down on the list.  The servant knows that great is not the man who stands at the pulpit, but in the ones who find himself on his knees with the children. The one who gives his time to work with the youth, so that His Hope may be found in their future. The one who finds himself at the door of the sick on the days the church doors are not even open.  The one who is preparing the church an hour before the service starts, so that all may hear His Word.  The servant knows that greatness is not measured on Sunday, but by the man who quietly finds himself cleaning up the mess we have made of the church on Monday.

The servant knows that true charity and compassion can only be found in an unselfish heart.  A heart that ask the Lord what purpose He needs fulfilled, before he tells the Lord the desires of his own heart.  A man whose words and actions point others to Christ, not to himself.

A servant must be found with a giving heart.

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”(John 3:16).  The servant does not just know how this verse ends, but how this verse begins.  “For God so loved the world, that He gave...”.  The servant knows that in order to reflect his Master, he must be willing to give as his Master gave.  He must be willing to give all, so that all may know the love of his Master.

The Master has taught the devoted servant of His will to serve His people.  He knows that in order to serve the Master, he must be willing to serve those that belong to his Master. He knows his time and his efforts can achieve so much more when placed in the hands of his Master, than in his own. The servant knows that the Master does not seek Sunday benchwarmers, but those who are willing to give their all, so that His Words may be brought to life each day.

As we look at the role of the servant, we must ask ourselves if in us a servant is found. Does the Church today look to serve Christ, or does it look to be served by Christ?  Does our compassion and charity come from how the world looks to drive us, or does it come from all that the Spirit shows us?  Do we offer our compassion and charity out of obligation, or do we give it freely to serve God’s purpose and plan?

We must again remind ourselves, we can only give what we have first received.  We can only give love, because Christ first showed us love.  We can only serve others, because Christ first served us.  We must again remember just how much charity the Lord has shown to all of us, and we cannot for a second forget all that He has given each of us. What incredible gifts the Lord has laid at our feet, gifts that carry a purpose far greater than this world will ever know. Gifts that call us into action, and affect each of those that Christ brings into our lives. What incredible service these gifts call us to perform, and what amazing promise each brings our way.  Gifts that each day remind us, that for the sake of that call, we must be willing to give our all.  Gifts that will one day cause crowns and titles to be placed at our feet. What a gift each day with Christ brings us.  Each day Christ shows us that we have the status of a king, but the duty of a servant!

Praying each of you will serve Christ!  

One Last Dance....

 Dr, Mike Murphy

January 26, 2025 

Often, I am very blessed to be able to talk and pray with others who are facing or going through cancer.  But rarely does that find me in the situation I found myself in this past week, speaking to a fifteen year old girl whose life had been devastated by lymphoma.  A fifteen year old girl named Courtney, whose words I will now never forget.

Courtney was the niece of a friend of mine, who lives very close.  Courtney and her mom had been staying with them, as they were working with a well-known hospital, in the hope they could help with the cancer.  But as my friend called me, they had learned that no help could be offered, and Courtney’s life would now soon be measured in days.  

With cancer, it is often challenging for me to travel or drive much distance, but being close, I was able to make my way to their house, offering to do what I could to talk and pray with Courtney.  As I entered their door, I was quickly aware of just how beautiful a young girl Courtney was, and even more appealing than her beauty, was the overwhelming presence of her smile.  By the time I was blessed to be able to meet her, cancer had already made its presence known, now weakening her to the point it was a struggle for her to just get up from her chair. But even as the cancer looked to devastate her, it could not mask her grace, and could not camouflage the draw of her personality.

As I sat to talk with Courtney, she soon began to tell me her story.  At fourteen, all of her life was ahead of her.  She had just made the freshman cheerleading team at school, and was looking forward to going to her first school dance with her boyfriend.  But as Courtney went through everything each day, she began to notice an internal pain that just would not go away, and began to experience a tiredness she just could not seem to get over.  One doctor soon had her sent to the next doctor, and one test soon led to another test, until the final test left her in the office of a local oncologist, who sadly let her know that she had cancer.

On that day, Courtney’s life took a sudden change, as school events and slumber parties were soon replaced by doctor's visits and chemo treatments.  And with each new treatment came a need for even more treatment, and with each new treatment, the cancer continued to rapidly advance.  A seventy percent chance to overcome the cancer soon turned to a thirty percent chance, until that day, it turned to no chance at all.

As I talked to Courtney that day, I soon discovered something about her that was even more appealing than her bubbly personality and her big smile, and that was her love for Christ.  At thirteen, she had come to not just read, but desire to understand the words of her Bible for the first time. And with each verse, her love for the Lord grew, and her desire to give her life to Christ soon became a reality.  Christ became the center of her life, and with each opportunity, she loved to share a word or two about Him with another.

As she talked to me about her cancer, it was not tears, but a smile that came to her face.  A smile that did not leave her in fear of what the days ahead would bring, but a joy and a certainty of the promises that tomorrow would hold.  And as she talked about this to me, she spoke words to me that completely overwhelmed me.  With a smile she told me, “Even though I know I will never get to go to a school dance, I realize that I will soon be dancing with the One I love most each day.  And even though I will never get to cheer at a high school game, I will soon have something even greater to cheer about each day.”  And with each word and each smile, it was my own heart that began to melt just a little more.

The more we talked, the more Courtney desired to share a verse of Scripture with me.  And soon nothing would stand in the way of that desire, as she was determined to get her Bible.  No matter how many times I offered to help, she would not let me, vowed and determined she would place her Bible in her hands for herself.  And as I watched this helpless and so very weak girl struggle to take each step, I soon came to realize that the one thing she was not was helpless.  As we each step, you could all but watch her lean on Him more.  As she opened her Bible, she turned it to 1 Peter 4:10, and read to me, “As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”  Finishing the verse, she began to explain the words of the verse to me, telling me that He had led her to read this verse several times, and each time she read it, she was drawn to it more.  Telling me how the words of this verse spoke to her, reminding her each day that despite the cancer, she had so much to be thankful to Him for.  And the best way she could thank Him, was to continue to find ways each day to serve Him, looking to share His grace with another each opportunity she was given.

As I talked to Courtney a little longer that day, I ended the day by praying with her.  And before I left, she motioned me to her, hugging me and thanking me for the time we had spent together that day.  As she did, I let her know that I looked forward to being able to talk with her again.  But as the words were spoken, she quickly smiled, quietly telling me, “Do not worry, soon we will have plenty of time to share more stories, and talk for an eternity.”

The next day, I soon learned that overnight, Courtney had grown even weaker.  And as the following day turned to night, the weakness would come to overtake Courtney, as she would spend the late hours of that night eternally dancing in the arms of her First Love.

In the days since, I have come to realize, it was not me that the Lord sent to talk to Courtney, it was the Lord sending me to Courtney so I could listen to her talk to me.  In that way too short time I was given the blessing of being able to speak and pray with her, the Lord has used her words to show me that I stand in front of Him without excuse.  My cancer does not, cannot not, and will not prohibit me.  It may leave my body weakened more and more each day, and leave me unable to do so many of the things I once took for granted each day.  But the cancer does not leave me with a single excuse, as it leaves me realizing just how much I have to be thankful to Him for.  And the best way I can show Him my thankfulness, is to continue to make the most of each opportunity He places before me.  I may not be able to do the things I once could do in service to Him, but even in my weakening state, I can still look to make the most of each opportunity I am extended in service to Him.  Leaving me realizing, cancer may greatly continue to weaken me, but it cannot stand against the strength He brings to me, and the hope and joy that serving Him each day still offers me.

I want so much to offer the biggest and heartfelt of “thank you’s” to Courtney, for truly teaching this “old dog” a new trick.  And for spending your “one last dance” making the most of the opportunity to reach out for Him to me. 

I pray that each of you are found dancing close with your First Love on a future day! 

A Hero Was Called Home

Dr. Mike Murphy

November 24, 2024

He never preached a sermon.  He never led a Bible study.  He never taught a single Sunday School class.  He never sang a song on Sunday morning that inspired others.  But he helped bring more to Christ than all those who had filled each of the above roles in the church.

He was a quiet man.  A man of few words, who spoke only when necessary.  He would occasionally joke, saying that he was not quiet, it was just that words were too precious to waste.  By most standards, he lived his life in the shadows.  But in the cover of the shadows he shined, serving Christ with a passion that few would ever duplicate.

When the services were over each Sunday, and the church was again empty, he was still there.  Cleaning the leftover bulletins from the pews, placing each Bible and hymnal back in place.  Making sure visitor cards were collected, and placed in the office where they could be followed up.  He walked the vacant halls, making sure the trash was emptied, the bathrooms were left clean, and everything was in working order.  He did all the things that no one thought about, that few even noticed.  The unappreciated things that keep the church doors open each week.

Since retiring, he made his way to the quietness of the church each morning.  He sat alone in the church and spent time with God.  He prayed for the pastor and the staff of the church. That God would fill them with His Spirit, that each of their words would reflect His. He prayed for those who had needs.  That God would wrap His arms around each, comforting them in His protection and care.  He prayed for each who visited the church. That the Lord would lead them to the place they needed to be.  And he prayed for those who had yet to visit. That Christ would reach their heart with His truth, and direct their paths to where He needed them most.

Every Sunday morning, his car was the first one in the parking lot.  He made the coffee, and placed the pastries on the tray that he had brought for each to enjoy.  He made sure each classroom had all the chairs needed, and the nursery had all the supplies each little one could need that day.  He set up the microphones, and made sure each was in working order.  He made sure each acolyte and choir robe was laid out and ready, and he made sure that each tithing plate was in its’ place.  He did all the little things to make sure the day went smooth, that each word and song was heard, and each touching moment was felt.

From the quiet of the shadows he towered.  Towering not in the thoughts and minds of man, but in the eyes of our Lord.  Each unnoticed moment was heroic in the Lord’s eyes. Each unnoticed effort placed the needs of God above his own needs.  Each unnoticed endeavor was an achievement that placed a smile on the Lord’s face.

On a quiet Thursday night, in an emergency room not far from the church, you could hear the heart monitor go silent.  He had breathed his last breathe of this earth’s air.  The church parking lot would sit empty that following Friday morning.  And on Sunday, all would only notice that everything was not quite in place.  For on that quiet Thursday night, a hero was called Home.

Hero.  A word we use to place those on a pedestal.  One who is idolized for their courage, worldly achievements, and noble qualities.  Men and women of fame and fortune, that this world holds above all others.  But we often find that those we raise onto our shoulders, are not the same as a hero in the Lord’s eyes. What God and man define as heroic, are often described with conflicting words, in very different terms.

So what does God see as a hero?  I believe that Corrie Ten Boom said it best.  “It is not about my ability, but my response to God’s ability, that counts.” God does not measure a hero by talent, but by what we do with the talent He gives us.  Each talent is a gift from God, and each talent is given to us with a purpose in mind.  And each of these talents are as uniquely given from God as each of us are unique.

Paul said, “In His grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you.  If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well.  If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging.  If it is giving, give generously.  If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously.  And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.”  Romans 12:6-8.  Paul makes it clear, God is not looking for the man with the most talent.  God is looking for the man who is willing to use the incredible talent He gives us.  God sees no more talent in the pulpit than He does in the pews, in both He sees the potential.  The potential to make the most for His glory with these incredible gifts He has given each of us.  God calls on us to use our gifts wisely.  To use our gifts with purpose and intent.  But above all, He just calls on us to use our gifts for Him. Knowing that if we are willing to use them, He will take care of everything else.

I, myself, am the perfect example of this.  There are many who could speak this message to you with more charisma than I will ever be capable of. Whose words could move you in ways I never could.  Those who could write these words with more clarity and passion than my mind will allow.  Who could take these words and paint a picture for you with more detail than I have the simple ability to do.  But we must remember, God is not looking in us for greatness.  He is already great!  He does not need greatness from us, all He needs is the effort.  The willingness to let His greatness be seen or heard through us.  It is for this reason, I always pray that God will not make me great, that He will just find me willing.  For it is in that willingness, that His greatness can be found.

Every gift already comes to us with perfection(James 1:17), already perfect in every way.  God just needs us to take these gifts and show the world the perfection in them.  Each time we use the incredible gifts He gives us, we show the world the Perfect Hand that created each gift.  Each time we are willing to use these gifts for Him, or words tell others of Him, and our actions point those around us to Him.  Each time we use these gifts to glorify His name, we show this world the only Hero this world will ever need to see.  And each time we are willing to use these perfect gifts, the world sees the image of that Hero reflecting in each of us.

Nowhere do we see this taught to us more than in the words that Jesus taught us. In the Parable of the Talents(Matthew 25:14-30), Christ paints for us the perfect picture of what we can do if we are willing to use the gifts God has given us.  In the parable, a wealthy man is about to go on a journey, and entrust his servants with what he has.  To one servant, he entrusted five talents.  To another, he entrusted two talents.  And to another, he entrusted one talent.  The first servant, takes the five talents and puts them to work, making his master another five talents.  The second servant does the same, doubling the two talents to four.  The third servant, decided to dig a hole in the ground and protect away his master’s funds.  After a long journey, the master returns and calls each of his servants to him.  The first hands him the ten talents, and the master praises him. Knowing he can trust his servant with even more.  The second does the same, and the master again praise his servant.  As the third comes in, he hands the master the one talent he protected away.  The master is disappointed, and furious with the servant.  The master sees that he has done nothing with the talent he gave him, taking the talent from him and sending him away.

Like the master in the parable, God wants each of us to make the most of the talent He gives us.  To use that talent to bring glory to His name, to be willing to put that talent to work so others may know what He alone has done for each of us.  For each of us to see what a blessing each talent can be, and what each talent can accomplish for our Master. But He does not want us to bury our talent away.  To deposit it deep within ourselves, never to be used for gain.  Wasted away, forgotten without purpose in mind.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in various forms.”  1 Peter 4:10.  Every talent we have belongs to God.  A precious gift given to us with a purpose in mind.  Just like the Word of God, each time we use those gifts their value increases.  Our talents not only become blessings to others, but a blessing to ourselves that draws us closer to the One who gave us each of those gifts.

Today, be a hero!  Whether you find yourself in the shadows or in the spotlight, be a hero for God today!  Put your talents to work for the Lord.  Be willing to hear His voice, to follow His call.  Go wherever that call leads you. Whether that be speaking to the masses or sweeping your church, do it with joy. Knowing the Lord has a purpose in mind for what He is calling you to do.  From the smallest of our efforts, history is filled with God creating the greatest of miracles. Miracles that only required for us to step forward, to be willing to let God use us as His hero!

And on a distant day, when Heaven opens its’ gates for you, I pray the Lord will call another hero Home.

Today, I pray, you will be a hero!