Ashland Christian Church: An Oklahoma Perspective

A mid-winter morning in Mid-Missouri dawned grey, cold and misty. Inside Ashland Christian Church, the atmosphere was bright and clear, and the the people radiated warmth to all who entered. The Praise Band offered insightful and uplifting choruses and hymns to prepare the congregation for worship.

The 'Why Not You? The Underdog Edition' sermon series continued with a look at James, an early Christian martyr. This James did not write the book of the New Testament, but was an influential man in the early church, understanding what Jesus meant when He said 'a servant is not greater than his master.' Jesus repeated this point several times, but most of those around Him did not understand what He meant at the time. To further illustrate the point, Jesus added, 'if the world hates me, they will also hate you,' and 'take up dail your cross and follow me.' In Jesus time, this was like saying, 'die daily to follow me,' something His followers really didn't understand.

That is, except for James. he was accused of something one of his countrymen and brought before the Roman appointed Jewish king, Herod Agrippa. Much like Pontius Pilate, Agrippa wanted to do what was needed to keep popularity with the people. James witnessed to him and did not change his mind, but at his trial, James' accuser's heart was touched so deeply that he stood and claimed that what James had said was true, and he recanted his charges. Agrippa's response was to sentence this man to be beheaded with James, and at the execution, James' last words were to forgive his accuser. Agrippa could not take the life of a man who had already given his life to Jesus and, therefore, had nothing to lose.

The question for us was, 'Why Can't God Use You to Live a New Life Now That Your Old One Has Been Put To Death?' When we accept Jesus and give him our lives, we have died to who and what we were - lost. Jesus owns our lives and we have the strength and purpose to live for Him, no matter what the cost.

Sunday school starts at ACC at 9:00 AM with classes for all ages. Worship is at 10:00 AM with a fellowship time following. A nursery for infants and toddlers and children's church for kindergarten through third grade is provided.

Rick Lee, a new Missourian