Geese & The Passing Of Time - Reece's Peaces

For the past two months, our church has been overrun with geese. Every year, these feathered visitors make our property a temporary stop on their migration path, causing no small number of headaches for those of us on the ground. While geese are undoubtedly part of God’s creation, their tendency to leave droppings across our parking lot and sidewalks, combined with their surprising aggression toward humans and cars, makes them more than a small nuisance. I must admit, while I’m not a fan of mosquitoes, I’ve occasionally found myself wishing for a few more of those instead of all these geese!

Typically, the geese stay for just a few weeks before heading south for warmer climates as the first frost approaches. This year, however, they’ve lingered much longer, and I found myself growing  concerned. After some research into geese and their migration patterns, I discovered something interesting - and not entirely welcome: while Canada geese do migrate south for the winter, Louisville falls within their “year-round” habitat. This means our church property is just as inviting to geese in summer as it is in winter.

This discovery got my mind racing. What could we do to keep these geese at bay? I Googled  everything: traps for geese, ultrasonic deterrents, even guard dogs specifically trained to handle them. My worry wasn’t just for the mess they left behind, but for the possibility of an overly bold goose scaring off a family visiting our church for the first time.

But as I sit here writing this, it seems the geese have finally moved on. Their departure fills me with relief and, to my surprise, a little sadness. Despite the chaos they caused, I found a certain peace watching them from my office window. Did you know geese graze on grass much like cows? I hadn’t realized that until I saw them out there, calmly nibbling away.

Of course, my nostalgia for them won’t last long. They’ll be back in the spring, overstaying  their welcome once again and renewing my frustration. Yet their migration is a small but      constant reminder of the passing of time, a marker of seasons changing and years turning. 

 As we begin a new year, I’ve been reflecting on the “geese” in our lives: the things that frustrate us and make life messy, yet somehow bring unexpected moments of joy. Life is full of complexities, and the things that challenge us often have a way of enriching our lives, even if we don’t see it at first.

This new year invites us to look back on the year that’s passed, the blessings and the burdens, the joys and the struggles, and to find gratitude for it all. After all, everything in creation, from geese to mosquitoes and beyond, serves a purpose. And as we step into this new chapter, may we remember that God is with us in every season, helping us find meaning in it all.  

We Three Kings - Marc's Music Notables

Everyone has probably seen a Christmas pageant where three young boys dress up as the three kings, complete with crowns and gifts, while the choir or congregation sings “We Three Kings.” This hymn may be the primary reason for this tradition and is a peculiarly American contribution to this season's repertoire.

The author and composer John Henry Hopkins, Jr. (1820-1891) was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He received his education at the University of Vermont and General Theological Seminary in New York City, graduating in 1850. Hopkins then became the first church music instructor at General Theological Seminary and was the founding editor of the Church Journal (1853-1868).

Hopkins wrote the carol around 1857, based on the narrative of the magi's journey in Matthew 2:1-12. It was first published in the author’s Carols, Hymns, and Songs (1863). United Methodist Hymnal editor Carlton R. Young makes an interesting observation: “Because the wealth of USA Appalachian and other folk carols was yet to be discovered, this carol for almost a century was regarded by hymnal editors as the sole USA contribution to the repertory of English language carols.”

“We Three Kings” outlines its narrative in a manner that children might identify with. While the traditional number of magi is usually set at three, probably because of the three gifts that the biblical narrative discusses, it is unusual for Epiphany hymns to identify the number of magi as three. Stanzas two, three, and four describe in detail the symbolic nature of each gift of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

The famous Oxford Book of Carols (1964) not only encouraged this dramatic presentation of the carol, but its editor, Martin Shaw, provided an arrangement suitable for three voices and labeled them by Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar.

The imagery of the star is central to the Epiphany season and the narrative. The refrain  focuses on the star and invites us to follow the magi's light - “guide us to thy perfect light.” This epiphany may be reminded of the gifts the Magi brought to worship the newborn King and be led by that same star to use our gifts to worship him. 

Hearty Italian Sausage Soup - Jenna's Favorite Recipes

The holidays are past and the chill of winter is getting harder to ignore! This hearty, healthy delicious soup is the perfect dish to warm and nourish you on these cold, dreary days. It comes together really quickly and easily, making it the perfect winter dinner. You can even freeze and reheat any leftovers, so the convenience never ends!

Ingredients:

· 2lbs Italian sausage (mild or hot)

· 1 medium onion, chopped

· 3 celery stalks, chopped

· 2 carrots, peeled & cut into small pieces

· 5 cloves garlic, minced

· 1 can cannellini or garbanzo beans

· 1 can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

· 3 cups chicken broth

· 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning

· Salt and pepper, to taste

· Rind of sheep cheese, such as pecorino romano or manchego

· 1-2 cups frozen spinach or kale

· Cooked pasta (optional)

· Grated sheep cheese (for topping)

 Directions:

1.  In a large pot, sauté the sausage and onion. You can add a little olive oil, but the pork should have enough fat that it’s not necessary. Break up the sausage into small crumbled  pieces as it cooks.

2. Add the carrots, celery, garlic, and seasoning. Cook until they begin to soften.

3. Stir in the beans, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Reduce heat to medium-low. 

4. Add the sheep cheese rind. This imbues the soup with greater flavor and depth. It may   dissolve into the soup as it cooks, but if it’s still there, remove the chunks before serving.

5. Simmer for 30 - 40 minutes.

6. In the last 10 - 15 minutes of cooking, add the   frozen spinach or kale.

7. Serve hot, topped with grated sheep cheese.

*If adding pasta, cook and strain that separately.    Add to the soup just before serving. 

Don’t Be A Grinch! - Reece's Peaces

When we think of Christmas naysayers, Ebenezer Scrooge and the Grinch might come to mind. But the real-life Puritans of the 17th century may have outdone them both! These zealous reformers banned the public celebration of Christmas in the  Massachusetts Bay Colony for nearly a generation. 

In 1659, the colony went so far as to make it a crime to celebrate the holiday. Anyone caught feasting, skipping work, or creating merriment on December 25th could be fined five shillings. Schools, shops, and farms were ordered to remain open, while churches were mandated to close. Their version of Christmas was stripped of joy, worship, and celebration, replaced instead with work and somberness. 

Thankfully, today we embrace Christmas as a time of joy, love, and gratitude for the birth of Christ. It’s a season to gather with family and friends, share in kindness, and give thanks to God for the gift of His Son. This Advent season, our church will       explore how we can truly celebrate Christmas as a reflection of Christ's love,       kindness, and joy. 

 Unlike the Puritans’ vision of a “fasting and humiliation” holiday, we are called to celebrate as the shepherds did that first Christmas morning, with awe, joy, and worship of our Savior King. 

So, let’s come together this Christmas season, sharing God’s love with one    another and rejoicing in the greatest gift of all - the birth of Jesus Christ! 

O Come All Ye Faithful - Marc's Music Notables

The hymn “O Come All Ye Faithful” is believed to have been written between 1740 and 1743, as the earliest manuscripts of it show. It seems to be a collaboration between a group of individuals, but John Francis Wade is the one who has his name written on the hymn that we see today. Wade was an English musician who lived off of copying and selling music. This hymn was originally written in Latin and titled “Adeste Fideles" and comes from a Roman Catholic tradition. It was later translated into English by Frederick Oakeley, William Brooke, and Abbé Etienne Jean François Borderies. Oakeley translated verses 1, 2, and 3 of the hymn. Borderies is known to have translated three more. 

After Oakeley finished translating, the hymn appeared in an English church hymnal. It was titled, “Let us go even unto Bethlehem and see this thing which is come to pass.” Many other versions and alterations of this well-known hymn exist. 

One particular thing to note is that the second verse seems inspired by the Nicene Creed, written at the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. What a unique characteristic that links us back to the early years of church history. It makes the significance of this hymn that much richer.

 “O Come All Ye Faithful” seems to put us as worshipers in the middle of the story. In the first verse, we are beckoned to see what has occurred in Bethlehem. Jesus, our Savior, has been born, the one who frees us from all of our sins. All who believe in him are welcome. We are invited along with the shepherds to behold what has happened.

This is why hymns like “O Come All Ye Faithful” have been written. There is a reason to sing and celebrate during Christmas because of our hope in Jesus. We can come together with other believers and the angels in heaven to behold our Savior. I pray this knowledge makes our Christmas season that much more joy-filled.

Baked Spinach Artichoke Goat Cheese Dip - Jenna's Favorite Recipes

This recipe is a hit at holiday gatherings! Sure, we all love our Christmas cookies and other sweets, but you definitely need some creamy savory goodness to balance out all that sugar!

This dish comes together very easily and can be customized in many ways. I recently added cooked salmon to give it an extra boost of protein, and it was so tasty! Bacon would make a great addition as well, or you can add a pinch of chili flakes if you prefer a spicy kick. Serve with crackers, baguette slices, chips, or fresh     veggies. I recommend Mary’s Gone Crackers because of the clean ingredients and savory crunchiness!

 Ingredients:

· Goat Cheese - 2 large logs

· 8oz Cream Cheese

· 5oz fresh Spinach

· 14oz canned Artichoke Hearts

· 1/4 cup Parmesan

· 1/4 cup Mozzarella

· 1 Tbsp Garlic Powder

· 2 tsp Onion Powder

· 2 tsp Parsley

· 2 tsp Chives

· 1 tsp Salt

· Truffle Seasoning (optional)

 Directions:

1.  Soften Goat Cheese & Cream Cheese in large bowl (microwave on low for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until smooth and easy to stir together).

2. In a small skillet, lightly cook the spinach over low heat until wilted and moisture has evaporated.

3. Drain the artichokes and chop into small pieces.

4. Preheat oven to 375F. Grease an 8x8” baking pan, or any pan of similar size.

5. Stir Goat Cheese & Cream Cheese together until smoothly blended, then add all of the seasonings and stir until thoroughly mixed.

6. Stir in the Spinach, Artichokes, and Parmesan

7. Transfer the dip to the baking dish and smooth with a spatula until evenly distributed.

8. Bake for 25 minutes, then add the mozzarella cheese and continue baking until it’s bubbling and the top is turning golden.

9. Serve hot with crostini, crackers, or veggies.

 *If you are traveling with this dish, you can bake it directly in an oven-safe slow cooker crock (without the lid) before transferring it to the crockpot for transporting.

When Do You Put Out Your Christmas Decorations? - Ben Reece's Peaces

Traditionally, churches have decorated for Christmas just after Thanksgiving and before the start  of Advent. Many of you may remember attending churches with a "Hanging of the Greens" service, where Christmas decorations, especially greenery like wreaths and Christmas trees, were placed around the church. These services, often held at the end of November, led many to decorate their homes the week after Thanksgiving as well. 

However, this tradition is relatively recent. Hanging of the Greens services only gained popularity in American churches in the 1950s-60s. Before then, most churches remained undecorated through Advent, only adding Christmas decorations on Christmas Eve. This custom was mirrored in many American households, particularly among families of German descent, who often decorated their trees on Christmas Eve or even kept them hidden until Christmas morning. Celebrations would then continue through the Twelve Days of Christmas, ending on Epiphany, January 6th. 

Even more surprisingly, decorating for Christmas wasn’t always a common practice in the U.S.  In fact, before the mid-1800s, most families and churches didn’t decorate for Christmas at all. Christmas trees were rare and primarily found in homes of wealthy German families or within  German-speaking communities. In certain periods of American history, some communities and states even prohibited Christmas celebrations and decorations altogether! 

 Today, Christmas decorating has evolved dramatically. Just recently, I visited a Home Depot before Halloween, and the Christmas section was already set up, a Christmas tree displayed next to the headless horseman! Many    families, along with stores, now start decorating well     before Thanksgiving. 

And there’s nothing wrong with that. If there’s one thing we know about Christmas decorations, it’s that the timing is always changing. While people might decorate earlier each year, the celebration remains the same: honoring the birth of Jesus on Christmas Day. So, whether someone sets up their decorations in November, or even in July, the heart of the celebration remains centered on that first Christmas morning. 

WHAT DO HYMNS HAVE THAT MOST MODERN CHURCH SONGS DON’T? - Marc's Music Notables

At Hurstbourne Christian Church, we are proud of our music program and pride ourselves on creating a worship experience that is meaningful to all of our worshippers.  Several times, people have asked me about my philosophy around church music and how I pick the sons to include in worship. Here are some of my guiding principles around hymns over some that may be missing in modern church songs:

Theological Depth:

· Hymns often contain rich theological content and profound expressions of faith. They explore doctrinal themes and biblical narratives, providing a sense of spiritual depth and education.

Poetic and Artistic Language:

· Hymns often feature sophisticated poetic structures and language, making them musically engaging and artistically significant. The careful crafting of hymn lyrics can convey complex theological ideas in an aesthetically pleasing and memorable way.  They also make you think about the text and lead you to   a deeper study of God’s word.

Corporate Singing:

· Hymns are often written with congregational singing in mind, making them suitable for communal worship. When the entire congregation joins in singing, they can create a sense of unity and participation.

Time-Tested Melodies:

· Hymn melodies have endured and have been sung and cherished for generations. Their familiarity can evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort for long-time churchgoers.

It's important to note that not all modern church songs lack these elements. Some contemporary worship songs have theological depth, poetic language, and congregational singing ability. Some churches today try to blend hymns and modern songs to create a rich and meaningful worship experience that resonates with worshipers of all ages and backgrounds. There are even modern hymn writers like Keith and Kristyn Getty who are writing beautiful music.  While I am not opposed to implementing new songs in our worship, My guiding principle has always been that scriptural-based text and melodic familiarity are comforting elements of our worship services.

Pumpkin Bread Pudding - Jenna's Favorite Recipes

This is one of my favorite Thanksgiving recipes! It’s a unique way to enjoy all the flavor of traditional pumpkin pie while also getting to experience a new take on a holiday favorite.

Start by making some pumpkin bread a few days ahead of time. I like to use this paleo recipe, but you can use whatever recipe you like best. Then on the big day, all you have to do is make the custard mixture, bake it, and enjoy! It’s so delicious with homemade whipped cream! This recipe makes 6-8 servings.

 Ingredients:

For Pumpkin Bread

· 1 15oz can pumpkin puree

· 3 eggs

· 1/4 cup maple syrup

· 1 tsp vanilla

· 2 1/4 cups almond flour

· 1 tsp baking soda

· 1/2 tsp salt

· 1 Tbsp pumpkin pie spice

 For Bread Pudding

· 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree

· 3 eggs

· 1 cup half & half or cream

· 1/2 cup milk

· 1/2 cup maple syrup

· 1/2 cup brown sugar, maple sugar, or coconut sugar

· 1/2 tsp salt

· 1 Tbsp pumpkin pie spice

· 2 tsp vanilla

· 1 loaf pumpkin bread, cubed

 Directions:

1.  Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare a loaf pan with parchment paper or oil.

2. Whisk together the pumpkin, eggs, maple syrup and vanilla. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.

3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and stir until combined.

4. Pour into the loaf pan. Bake for 45-60 min, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. Let cool and store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

6. When ready to make the bread pudding, cut the bread up into small cubes, less than 1 inch in size. Place the cubed bread in a greased baking dish in an even layer.

7. In a large mixing bowl, combine all of the other ingredients and mix thoroughly to make a “custard.” Pour the mixture over the bread and allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes.

8. Preheat oven to 350. When the pudding is ready to go in the oven, stir it just before putting it in to  redistribute the custard.

9. Bake until the pudding is set and starting to brown. This could take anywhere from 40-70 minutes.

10. Serve warm, topped with homemade whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

*Leftovers (if you have any) can be stored in a covered container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Back To School! - Reece's Peaces

I’m officially a student again! On September 30th, I began my first class in the Doctor of Ministry program at Lexington Theological Seminary, a Disciples of Christ institution here in Kentucky. In fact, I'm taking a break from listening to my first lecture to write this article.

I’m excited to be returning to academic life, and eager to bring the insights I gain back  into my ministry. At the same time, I’m also confronting some familiar challenges that come with being a student again. 

One of the biggest hurdles for me is reading material I disagree with. A significant part   of theological studies involves grappling with ideas and perspectives that differ from my own, something I’ve always found difficult. I naturally gravitate toward works that I resonate with, those that feel true and aligned with my beliefs. But when faced with  writings I find problematic, especially on matters of faith, I tend to get stuck. I question the author’s conclusions, scrutinize their reasoning and data, and often dive into my Bible to challenge their translation or interpretation of scripture. 

However, I’ve realized this mindset isn’t the most productive way to learn. Approaching a text solely to find faults limits my ability to discover what it might teach me, and how it might contribute to my growth. Instead of seeking out ways a work could be improved, I’m committing to a new approach as I resume my studies: focusing on what’s constructive and how  each book or article can enhance my ministry. 

I encourage all of you to take this mindset into your own lives as well. Seek out the good rather than the negative, look for opportunities to learn from even difficult experiences, and live fully  into the glory of God. 

The Story Behind the Hymn: “Now Thank We All Our God” - Marc's Music Notables

Written by Alissa Davis, a Master of Sacred Music student at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University. She studies hymnology with Dr. C. Michael Hawn, University Distinguished Professor of Church Music, Perkins School of Theology.

For modern American Protestant churchgoers, the hymn “Now thank we all our God,” likely conjures up an image of a congregation singing in unison, a pipe organ blasting away at a stately tempo, and a church full of people thinking about the approaching feast of stuffed turkey with cranberry sauce. In order to understand where this hymn came from, I would like to offer a very different image: A minister and his family sing this hymn before dinner to thank God for the scraps of food they have on the table in their meager home in a desolate refugee city that is afflicted with famine and disease and war. Since the earliest projected date for this hymn is 1636 and the oldest known date is 1663, this hymn was certainly written during or soon after the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648).

Martin Rinckart (1586-1649) was an accomplished musician who studied at the University of Leipzig and then spent most of his career as a musician and archdeacon in the city of Eilenburg during the Thirty Years’ War. British Hymnologist J.R. Watson accounts that as one of the last surviving ministers in the city, Rinckart had to stretch personal resources to take care of refugees and spend most of his time performing nearly fifty funerals per day at the height of the plague. This experience during the Thirty Years’ War had a profound impact on Rinckart’s poetry, just as it did for his hymn writer contemporaries. Lutheran scholar Carl Schalk observes that unlike the objective hymn texts of the Reformation period, the “cross and comfort” hymnody of the time reflected life situations of the people with greater metrical regularity, smoother language, and a theology relatable to everyday life.

The text of the first two stanzas are based on Sirach 50:22-24: “Now therefore bless ye the God of all, which only doeth wondrous things everywhere, which exalteth our days from the womb, and dealeth with us according to his mercy. He grants us joyfulness of heart, and that peace may be in our days in Israel forever (KJV).”

The first stanza is a depiction of a bounteous and gracious God who has blessed us and provided for us. The text is propelled forward by the phrases beginning with “who/whom” and ending in descriptors of God’s actions (anaphora):

who wondrous things has done,

in whom this world rejoices;

who from our mothers’ arms….

For someone in Rinckart’s dire situation, this expression of abundant gratitude might seem like hyperbole. If you don’t live in constant fear of starvation, the plague, and invading armies, you are already quite a bit more fortunate than he; and yet, he expands this description of God into the second stanza by bridging the two with similar ideas (anadiplosis) “countless gifts” at the end of the first stanza with a “bounteous God” at the beginning of stanza two.

The second stanza of the hymn moves to the future, praying for guidance and a continuation of thanks and praise:

O may this bounteous God

through all our life be near us,

with ever joyful hearts

and blessed peace to cheer us;

and keep us still in grace,

and guide us when perplexed;

and free us from all ills,

in this world and the next.

The second stanza also employs the poetic device of anaphora by beginning each phrase with “and” in three successive phrases: “and keep us…,” “and guide us…,” “and free us….” The three verbs are arranged in an implied chronological order that leads up to the final phrase “this world and the next.”

The third and final stanza brings the hymn to a close by acting as a German Gloria Patri (Lesser Doxology), which offers praise to all Persons of the Trinity and acknowledges God’s eternal nature in the last line.

All praise and thanks to God

the Father now be given;

the Son, and him who reigns

with them in highest heaven,

the one eternal God,

whom earth and heaven adore;

for thus it was, is now,

and shall be evermore.

Homemade Caramel - Jenna's Favorite Recipes

A lot of people think fall is all about pumpkin spice. I enjoy all the flavors of the season, including pumpkin, but my absolute favorite fall treat is all things caramel apple! There’s just something about that rich, buttery sweetness combined with the tanginess of a tart apple that can’t be beat! Unfortunately, store-bought caramel has lots of nasty processed ingredients that aren’t a great fit for those trying to stick to a healthy diet.

Thankfully, we caramel lovers are in luck! Here is a clean recipe for homemade caramel that’s not only incredibly delicious, but also happens to be easy to make. It’s still very sweet, and therefore best to indulge in small amounts, but I certainly appreciate not having to miss out entirely on one of the tastiest delights of the season!

*See the notes below for all the different results this recipe can yield, ranging from dip to hard candy.

Ingredients:

· 1 Cup Pure Maple Syrup (no artificial stuff or maple-flavored corn syrup)

· 2 Tbsp grass fed butter

· 1 tsp vanilla extract

· 1/4 Cup grass fed heavy cream (optional)

· 1/4 tsp salt (optional)

Tools:

· Small heavy-bottom saucepan

· Candy thermometer (or meat thermometer)

Directions:

1.  If you have a candy thermometer, start by clipping it to your pan. If using a meat thermometer, you’ll need to check the temperature every couple of minutes once it gets above 220 degrees.

2. Bring the maple syrup to boiling over medium high heat. The pan should be tall enough that the syrup can foam up as it boils without overflowing. Stir            occasionally if it’s foaming up too high.

3. When it reaches approximately 220 degrees, add the butter. Stir in until it melts, then add the vanilla, salt and cream, if using.

4. If making sauce, continue boiling until it gets between 225 - 230 degrees (see notes below for other options).

5. Remove from heat and pour into a heat safe jar. Let it cool before refrigerating. The caramel will be thin while it’s hot, but it will thicken as it cools.

 NOTES

* Cooking the caramel to higher temperatures will result in different consistencies. 230 degrees will make a sauce that’s perfect for dipping or drizzling on ice cream. 245 degrees will turn it thicker and gooier, appropriate for making turtles and soft candies. 250 will make nougat. 270 will result in taffy, and 300 or higher will turn it into hard toffee or brittle. Why not try each version and see what you like best?

(this recipe took inspiration from the website www.theviewfromgreatisland.com)

Supporting Middletown Elementary: A Heartfelt Thanks and Reflection - Reece's Peaces

I see God at work in our church when I reflect on the incredible generosity shown by our church community in gathering school supplies for Middletown Elementary. Your            contributions have made a significant difference in the lives of the students, ensuring that they have the tools and resources needed to succeed in the classroom and beyond. 

Thanks to your support, we were able to provide a substantial amount of school supplies  and food items to the students of Middletown Elementary. These supplies, ranging from notebooks and pencils to backpacks and lunchboxes, will greatly aid the students in their  academic pursuits.

Additionally, the food items we collected will help alleviate some of the daily struggles faced by families in our community, allowing the students to focus more on their studies  rather than worrying about their next meal. 

This effort was not just about collecting items; it was about coming together as a community with a shared mission to support the next generation. By providing these essential supplies, we are helping to create a more equitable learning environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their  circumstances. It is a powerful reminder of the   impact we can have when we work together with the love and compassion of Jesus. 

As we move forward, let us continue to keep the students of Middletown Elementary in our prayers. Thank you once again for your generosity and commitment to this important cause. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of these young students, giving them the tools they need to achieve their full potential. 

My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less - Marc's Music Notables

Sometimes the grace of God penetrates into unlikely places.  Edward Mote’s parents were hostile to religion, but while still a boy Edward became a Christian through the influence of a cabinet maker to whom he was apprenticed.  As a man, he became a skilled cabinet maker with a successful business of his own.

Regardless of the claims of his business on his time, Mote always found time to worship God.  He was especially interested in Christian music, and one day felt inspired on the way to work to write down a verse that came to his mind.  Before the day was finished, he had completed four verses.  His new hymn began with the words, “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.”

Not long thereafter, Mote visited a friend whose wife was ill.  It was a Sunday, and the friend mentioned that he and his wife liked to observe Sunday by singing a hymn, reading a scripture, and having prayer together.  Mote had a copy of his hymn in his pocket, so they sang it. The friend’s wife was so taken with the hymn that she requested a copy for herself.  Encouraged by her interest, Mote had copies printed - and soon found himself the author of a beloved hymn.

At age 55, Mote responded to a call to the ministry.  He served out the rest of his life - more than two decades - as the pastor of a Baptist Church in Horsham, Sussex, England.

Mote may have written other hymns during his lifetime, but this is the only one in common use today.

Homemade Enchilada Sauce - Jenna's Favorites

Enchilada sauce is another thing that is so easy to make, why would you ever need to use a   store bought version with unhealthy additives? With this simple recipe, you can make amazing enchiladas, and even better, you can customize the sauce to your tastes! All you need for a complete meal is seasoned shredded chicken or ground beef, cheese, and your favorite tortillas. If you’re keeping gluten and corn-free like me, there are lots of great alternatives, including Siete’s almond or cassava flour tortillas, or you can try your hand at making your own!

 Ingredients:

· 3 Tbsp grass fed butter

· 3 tsp chili powder (more or less to taste)

· 2 tsp garlic powder

· 1 tsp onion powder

· 1 tsp paprika

· 1/2 tsp salt

· 8oz tomato sauce

· 3 Tbsp tomato paste

· 1.5 cups chicken broth

· 1/2 tsp xanthan gum

· 1 tsp cocoa powder (optional)

 Directions:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.

2. Add all of the spices and salt, stir until it forms a paste.

3. Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Stir well until smooth.

4. Taste the sauce and determine if you want to add any additional spices. You can add as much or as little of the chili powder as you like, or add some hot sauce or cayenne depending on your preference.

5. If using cocoa powder, add it now. This is optional, but really adds to the depth and authenticity of the flavor. You can try a small amount of sauce with a tiny sprinkle of cocoa if you want to taste it first.

6. Once everything is fully combined, sprinkle the xanthan gum slowly over the sauce and remove from heat. The sauce will thicken as it cools

This recipe makes about 3 cups of sauce. Use it for enchiladas, Mexican skillets, add it to taco meat, stir it in to chili, or whatever else you can think of!

(this recipe took inspiration from the website www.lowcarbinspirations.com)

Soul Food - Reece's Peaces

As the aroma of fried chicken and sweet tea fills the air at the Kentucky State Fair each August, we’re reminded of the rich flavors that define our region. It’s a time of indulgence, a celebration of culinary delights that satisfy both our taste buds and our hearts. From the classic comfort foods to the adventurous deep-fried concoctions, the State Fair offers a smorgasbord of options to tempt every palate. 

But amidst the feasting and fun, let’s remember that true sustenance comes not from what we consume physically, but spiritually. The month of August, marked by cookouts and gatherings, invites us to consider the deeper meaning of nourishment. While physical food fuels our bodies, it’s our souls that crave a different kind of sustenance. 

Just as we carefully select ingredients for our physical meals, we must also be intentional about what we feed our spirits. It’s easy to be drawn to the spiritual equivalent of fast food: quick fixes, empty promises, and superficial satisfaction. But lasting nourishment requires a steady diet of God’s Word, prayer, and fellowship. 

This August, we embark on a journey to discover what it means to be spiritually well-fed. We’ll explore the biblical concept of soul food, examining its nature, its benefits, and how to cultivate it in our lives. Just as a balanced diet promotes physical health, a spiritually nourishing regimen strengthens our faith and deepens our relationship with God. 

 Let’s come together to explore the ingredients of a truly satisfying spiritual meal. We’ll discover how to savor the rich flavors of grace, the hearty portions of love, and the sweet dessert of hope. Together, we’ll embark on a transformative journey, leaving us not only full but fulfilled. 

So, as you enjoy the delights of the State Fair and the warmth of summer gatherings, remember that the greatest feast awaits those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. 

Hymns & Why We Need Them - Marc's Music Notables

A hymn is not just an “old song” we used to sing.  Yes, many of the great hymns have been sung literally for centuries, but we do not sing hymns because they are old; we sing them because they are so true that they have survived all the fads of language, rhythm feels, and musical trends.  If new hymns live, it will be for the same reason.  In fact, there are many new hymns being written and whole hymn movements of new writers rising up, not only in the U.S. but in the U.K. and Scandinavia.  Then what is a hymn, and why do we need them?

First of all, a hymn is meant to be sung corporately.  When we gather with other Believers, we sing together praise to God or remind each other just who this God is that we serve. In general, we could think of hymns as those songs of praise and worship we send up to God identifying for all to hear His attributes and thanking Him for His amazing intervention in our world and in our lives. 

We sing of the incarnation: God who was before anything existed, the Cause and Source of all things, God of grandeur, power and infinite glory chose to become one of us and to walk with us – Immanuel!  Hymns are God-centered and call our attention upward.  They are lofty in message and lift us above the earth.  They remind us of our original glory that preceded any “original sin” and remind us of God’s intention to see that glory restored in us.  The exchange in hymns, then, is vertical – connecting us to God and seeking to hear His voice speaking to our hearts in return.

Hymns are firmly rooted in God’s Word and, since they are intended to be sung corporately by the fellowship of believers, pull us above our petty differences by reminding us of God’s dream for us – that we would be one.  

No wonder, then, that when times are confusing or the world is in upheaval, we find ourselves needing songs that nail to the wall the deep cardinal truths of our faith and the always available and ever dependable qualities of God.  When we cannot sing them as a congregation, we sing them to ourselves to help us remember that the Body of Christ is always at the table and the great cloud of witnesses are always present to encourage, love  and support.  When we sing hymns alone, we refocus on the ways this great God has delivered us before; this focus turns our anxieties to praise and our questions to certainties.  Therefore, let us continue to proudly sing our hymns, together or alone, not only to praise God but as a daily reminder of his goodness and mercy.

Caesar Salad w/ Homemade Dressing - Jenna's Favorites

It’s amazing how easy it is to make your own salad dressings at home with just a few simple        ingredients! This vegan Caesar dressing is one of my favorites. A lot of recipes will call for egg yolk or anchovies, which many people do not tolerate well. This recipe uses hummus as a base,  and is generally safe for most people with food allergies. You can take it to the next level by also    making your own croutons with whatever bread you prefer, including gluten-free or paleo options.  I make this regularly for dinners with friends, and consistently get positive reviews!

 Ingredients:

For Dressing

· 1 cup plain organic hummus

· 2 Tbsp olive oil

· 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard

· 2 Tbsp lemon juice

· 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar

· 2 Tbsp capers (plus the brine)

· 2 tsp garlic powder

· Salt, to taste

For Salad

· Romaine lettuce or mixed greens

· Shaved parmesan cheese

· Croutons (bonus points for homemade!)

 Directions:

1. In a blender, combine all ingredients for dressing and blend until smooth. You can also use a tall jar and an immersion blender.

2. Taste a small amount of the dressing. If the flavor of the hummus is too strong, add a little more of the lemon juice, vinegar, or capers & brine, depending on your preference. Blend and taste again. Continue adding small amounts of whatever seems to be lacking until the taste is satisfactory. Keep in mind that the flavor will not be quite as strong once the dressing is   tossed into the salad, so it should taste pretty strong on its own.

3. Prepare the salad greens and toss them with dressing.

4. Top with croutons and parmesan. Serve immediately.

 Notes:

· You can prepare the dressing a day or two ahead of time and store in the fridge. It will be thicker when it’s cold, so you’ll want to pull it out of the fridge a couple hours before serving and let it warm until it gets back to the right consistency.

· It’s pretty easy to make your own croutons! Just take a few slices of whatever bread you like (I use a gluten-free bread made with paleo ingredients). Cut each slice into small cubes, then toss the cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasonings. Bake on a cookie sheet at 350 for 15-20 min. Flip them halfway through baking, and check them every few minutes to prevent burning.

Happiness In Christ - Reece's Peace's

The US Declaration of Independence defines one of our inalienable rights as the “Pursuit of Happiness.” But for many of us, that pursuit feels like a constant chase, a fleeting feeling that disappears with the next deadline or unexpected bill.

Here at Hurstbourne Christian Church, we're starting a new sermon series called "Happiness in Christ." Over the next few weeks, we'll delve into the idea of Christian happiness, a happiness that goes far beyond fleeting moments of joy.

Overcoming Challenges

In the boxing world, there’s a famous quote from Mike Tyson: “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.” Now, I hope that none of you are regularly experiencing a literal punch in the mouth, but there’s a parallel in life. We can all find happiness when things are smooth sailing, but when life throws its unexpected punches, it can be challenging to sustain that happiness. Perseverance in the face of adversity can be as crucial to our happiness as almost anything else. Christ promises to stand with us in every moment of our lives, but nowhere does He promise an easy journey.

Gratitude & Thanksgiving

The practice of thanksgiving helps us recognize that whatever we have is sufficient. There will always be individuals with more or less, people who go hungry, and others who discard food we would gladly consume. Offering thanks to God only when we feel like we have enough isn’t truly being thankful. Instead, it’s essential to cultivate an attitude of gratitude. This way, regardless of what you have or the circumstances you face, you are thankful to God for the breath in your lungs and the life you have at this very moment. Life itself is a precious gift that we are meant to carry with us.

Serving Others & Happiness

As we learn more about God, we often realize that material possessions do not equate to happiness. We understand the significance of serving others and spreading love, as exemplified by Christ. This presents an opportunity to redirect our focus from the worldly desires imposed upon us to a deeper, more spiritual passion that aligns with Christ’s teachings

Battle Hymn Of The Republic - Marc Music Notables

Julia Ward Howe was born into a wealthy family in New York City in 1819. Descended from Roger Williams and two governors of Rhode Island, she mixed socially with such luminaries as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Charles Dickens. Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) counted himself as her friend.

In 1843 she married Samuel Gridley Howe, eighteen years her senior. An autocratic husband, he sharply limited her activities and took charge of her money, which he managed ruinously. When he died in 1876, she wrote in her diary, “Start my new life today.”

Howe used her writing and speaking skills to promote a number of causes, including women’s rights, education reform, and the abolition of slavery.

In 1861, she traveled to Washington D.C., where she met with Abraham Lincoln at the White House. She also visited a Union army camp, where she heard soldiers singing, “John Brown’s body lies a’molderin’ in the grave” - a song honoring John Brown, a prominent abolitionist who had been hanged for treason against the state of Virginia in 1859.

Howe’s pastor, the Reverend James Freeman Clarke, asked her to consider writing new words to that tune. That night, in her hotel room, the words came to mind as she tried to sleep. She got up and wrote them hastily on an old piece of paper. She then offered her poem to The Atlantic Monthly magazine, which published it in February 1862, sending her a check for five dollars.

Chaplain C.C. McCabe of the Union army heard the song, and began to teach it to the soldiers in his command. It soon spread to soldiers in other units, and finally to ordinary citizens of the Union States. It became incredibly popular, making Howe famous.

The song is couched in the language of Christ’s Second Coming - a time when Christ will “sift out the hearts of men before His judgment seat.” Howe’s “grapes of wrath” in the first verse alludes to the passage in Revelation 14:19, which speaks of “the great winepress of the wrath of God.”

Howe’s mention of “the trumpet that shall never sound retreat” might allude to the trumpets of Revelation 8, where seven angels sound seven trumpets. However, that phrase spoke loudly to soldiers who, in the confusion of battle, received their commands from trumpet sounds. A “trumpet that shall never sound retreat” was an inspiring image for those soldiers.

Howe’s song continues to enjoy great popularity. Lyndon Johnson had it sung at his inauguration in 1965. Andy Williams sang it at Robert Kennedy’s funeral in 1968.

But the loveliest story comes from James Humes, a presidential speechwriter. Humes interviewed General Eisenhower a few weeks after Winston Churchill’s funeral in 1965. He asked Eisenhower to talk about the most moving moment of that funeral - and Eisenhower mentioned this song. He noted that Churchill had learned this song at his American mother’s knee. It was one of his favorites.

Battle Hymn Of The Republic Eisenhower said, “We all know the first verse, ‘Mine eyes have seen the glory’ - but do you know the third verse? Because there I was seated with heads of state - Charles de Gaulle of France, Queen Juliana of the Netherlands. King Olav of Norway, King Baudoin of Belgium, heads of nations whose freedom had been redeemed by the warrior who lay in state only yards before us:

“And I could see feelings of gratitude and reverence mist their eyes as they did my own as we all sang:

‘He sounded forth the trumpet that never called retreat. His will goes marching on.’ ”

(From Humes’ book, Confessions of a White House Ghostwriter)