2014.6.22 礼拝

June 22nd Life Church service was blessed as we welcomed members from Second Baptist Church in Springfield, Missouri. Following the praise song “I can Only imagine” sang by Kevin,, their praise leader, a testimony was given by Miyoko-san from the group, sharing how she came to accept Jesus and true God.
The message was delivered by Mark titled “Honor your Father” from Exodus 20:12 and Ephesians 6:1-4.
Last Sunday was a “Father’s Day” and is thankful for being celebrated. Being a father makes you nervous – worried that you are not doing what you need to do. Every one of us has a father. Let’s try to recall our father, and let’s show respect (uyamau – Japanese) even though it may be as difficult to practice as it is to pronounce in Japanese.
Exodus 20:12 – Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.
To honor is to listen, respect and be thankful to your father. Even while your father is groaning and suffering from uncertainty, he is trying his best. At times, express your thanks and your love because there is no doubt that your father will be really happy.
Ephesians 6:1-4 – Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” – which is the first commandment with a promise – “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy life on the earth.” Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
The Bible clearly says we must honor our fathers and mothers, not only in the O.T. but also in the N.T., where it reads “obey” – simpler and clearer than the word “uyamau”. This is not what parents are saying but God. One last message from Mark to his children; remember your father loves God, loves your mother and loves you.
It is difficult to respect a father whom you have not seen for ages and who would use violence especially when drunk. However, after you have lost your father with whom you have quarreled and disliked, it is be too late regretting that you were unable to reconcile him. Bible does not say honor only your parents who deserve respect. It clearly says “honor your father and mother” regardless of being worthy of respect or not. This is the first commandment with a promise – that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy life on the earth. Not because we will be happy but because God says so – God who knows all about us and loves us most. Those who have lost your fathers can still honor your fathers. Imagine what you would have liked your father to do to you and try your best to be a good father. There could be failures and loss of confidence but don’t give up because you love your children and so doing you can show respect to your father and mother.
Those who still have your father and mother here on earth should take good care of them with honor. Let’s recall our fathers and mothers – whether here on earth or not – and remember them with respect. If any of them is not saved, let’s pray for them.