Continuing the Advent JourneyDAY 20:
Two days ago we met Simeon. Today we meet Anna. A similar story of the recognition of the Messiahship of Jesus, even though he was yet a babe. An Old Testament law spoke of the requirement of having two witnesses needed to confirm a fact. Here a second confirming witness arrives for the Holy Family. Isn’t the poetic beauty of God’s handwriting across history something to behold?
This account says Jesus went on to grow strong and was filled with wisdom and grace was on him. There is such a blessing to speak words of encouragement and vision into the next generation and here Anna models it beautifully. She is old, her time is almost done, and yet the greatest moment of her life is upon her. She is speaking a blessing over the Christ child, who then goes on to grow up into that blessing. What a privilege.
As we celebrate this Advent season, where might our blessing today release someone to greatness, someone to freedom, someone to hope?
Luke 2:36–40 (niv)
“There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four.
She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong;
he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
Can you remember the first time someone spoke blessing into your life. What did it feel like? How did it affect you?
With the demise of the family, the absence of so many fathers, this generation has been called “The Fatherless Generation.” Is there a young person in your life who desperately needs to hear a word of blessing? Could you bring that blessing?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.
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ADVENT DAY 19 from Torrey Pines Church Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church
Continuing the Advent Journey
DAY 19:
Ever heard someone present the "gospel" and all they talk about is being saved from your sins? It's really not that compelling a message.
It's not that they are incorrect, it's just they only tell you half the story. Jesus did not just come to save us from the sin that separates us from God, but more importantly, he came to bring us into connection with God. His primary mission was not one of conviction or condemnation, but rather restoration and hope.
This was true of the ancient prophecies of the Messiah too. The prophets did not only warn of the dangers of a life of disconnection from God, but they also spoke of the beauty of a life lived in connection with God too. Listen to what the prophet Ezekiel promised that God was doing and that the Messiah would bring.
This is why we long for our Savior this advent...
Ezekiel 34:11-16 (nlt)
“For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search and find my sheep. I will be like a shepherd looking for his scattered flock. I will find my sheep and rescue them from all the places to which they were scattered on that dark and cloudy day. I will bring them back home to their own land of Israel from among the peoples and nations. I will feed them on the mountains of Israel and by the rivers in all the places where people live. Yes, I will give them good pastureland on the high hills of Israel. There they will lie down in pleasant places and feed in lush mountain pastures. I myself will tend my sheep and cause them to lie down in peace, says the Sovereign Lord. I will search for my lost ones who strayed away, and I will bring them safely home again. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak. But I will destroy those who are fat and powerful. I will feed them, yes—feed them justice!”
DAY 19:
Ever heard someone present the "gospel" and all they talk about is being saved from your sins? It's really not that compelling a message.
It's not that they are incorrect, it's just they only tell you half the story. Jesus did not just come to save us from the sin that separates us from God, but more importantly, he came to bring us into connection with God. His primary mission was not one of conviction or condemnation, but rather restoration and hope.
This was true of the ancient prophecies of the Messiah too. The prophets did not only warn of the dangers of a life of disconnection from God, but they also spoke of the beauty of a life lived in connection with God too. Listen to what the prophet Ezekiel promised that God was doing and that the Messiah would bring.
This is why we long for our Savior this advent...
Ezekiel 34:11-16 (nlt)
“For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search and find my sheep. I will be like a shepherd looking for his scattered flock. I will find my sheep and rescue them from all the places to which they were scattered on that dark and cloudy day. I will bring them back home to their own land of Israel from among the peoples and nations. I will feed them on the mountains of Israel and by the rivers in all the places where people live. Yes, I will give them good pastureland on the high hills of Israel. There they will lie down in pleasant places and feed in lush mountain pastures. I myself will tend my sheep and cause them to lie down in peace, says the Sovereign Lord. I will search for my lost ones who strayed away, and I will bring them safely home again. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak. But I will destroy those who are fat and powerful. I will feed them, yes—feed them justice!”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
What is the sin you would remove from the world if you could?
What patterns in your story has Jesus saved you from and what has he brought you into? How are you different as a result of knowing Jesus?
Advent is two-fold. It is both the remembrance and celebration of the days leading up to the birth of Jesus and a reminder that we are eagerly awaiting Jesus' return today. In terms of Jesus' return, what is it that you are waiting for? What do you believe his return will do for you and our world? What good will it bring versus what evil will it remove?
What patterns in your story has Jesus saved you from and what has he brought you into? How are you different as a result of knowing Jesus?
Advent is two-fold. It is both the remembrance and celebration of the days leading up to the birth of Jesus and a reminder that we are eagerly awaiting Jesus' return today. In terms of Jesus' return, what is it that you are waiting for? What do you believe his return will do for you and our world? What good will it bring versus what evil will it remove?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
ADVENT DAY 17 from Torrey Pines Church of La Jolla, California, United States "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church" for Saturday, 17 December 2016
Continuing the Advent Journey
DAY 17:
Do you remember as a kid when you went shopping at Christmas and your mom told you, "No fingers; only looking. Keep your hands in your pocket"? It mighta been your mom's response to that retail sign that says, "If you break it, you bought it" or perhaps the one that reads: "Unattended children will be given caffeine and a puppy."
Regardless, it was probably good toddler parenting. But it's not the core of Christmas or the message of Advent. This is not the season to be quiet and mind your own business. This is a season where we add lights to our houses, throw parties, and tell everyone we can find who will give us an ear... THE SAVIOR IS COMING! It's a time to invite our friends and neighbors and moms and loved ones and even our enemies to meet Jesus. It's a time to brag about the God we serve and to tell the world that his arms are open wide.
So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and send an e-mail invite, or a shout out on facebook, or talk to a friend about the ways you can join together this Christmas and spread some cheer! Jesus is here!!!
Psalm 105:1-8 (nlt)
DAY 17:
Do you remember as a kid when you went shopping at Christmas and your mom told you, "No fingers; only looking. Keep your hands in your pocket"? It mighta been your mom's response to that retail sign that says, "If you break it, you bought it" or perhaps the one that reads: "Unattended children will be given caffeine and a puppy."
Regardless, it was probably good toddler parenting. But it's not the core of Christmas or the message of Advent. This is not the season to be quiet and mind your own business. This is a season where we add lights to our houses, throw parties, and tell everyone we can find who will give us an ear... THE SAVIOR IS COMING! It's a time to invite our friends and neighbors and moms and loved ones and even our enemies to meet Jesus. It's a time to brag about the God we serve and to tell the world that his arms are open wide.
So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and send an e-mail invite, or a shout out on facebook, or talk to a friend about the ways you can join together this Christmas and spread some cheer! Jesus is here!!!
Psalm 105:1-8 (nlt)
“Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness.
Let the whole world know what he has done. Sing to him; yes, sing his praises. Tell everyone about his miracles. Exult in his holy name;
O worshipers of the Lord, rejoice! Search for the Lord and for his strength, and keep on searching. Think of the wonderful works he has done, the miracles and the judgments he handed down,
O children of Abraham, God’s servant, O descendants of Jacob, God’s chosen one. He is the Lord our God. His rule is seen throughout the land. He always stands by his covenant— the commitment he made to a thousand generations.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
What can you thank God for today?
What evidence could you point to that God is alive and working in you today? What miracles can you give testimony to the world around you about?
Did you see that last line in Psalm 105:8? Did you see that it says God is faithful and trustworthy and he will keep his commitments to a thousand generations? How does believing in a God like that- who will pull through and be faithful- influence your daily decisions?
Let the whole world know what he has done. Sing to him; yes, sing his praises. Tell everyone about his miracles. Exult in his holy name;
O worshipers of the Lord, rejoice! Search for the Lord and for his strength, and keep on searching. Think of the wonderful works he has done, the miracles and the judgments he handed down,
O children of Abraham, God’s servant, O descendants of Jacob, God’s chosen one. He is the Lord our God. His rule is seen throughout the land. He always stands by his covenant— the commitment he made to a thousand generations.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
What can you thank God for today?
What evidence could you point to that God is alive and working in you today? What miracles can you give testimony to the world around you about?
Did you see that last line in Psalm 105:8? Did you see that it says God is faithful and trustworthy and he will keep his commitments to a thousand generations? How does believing in a God like that- who will pull through and be faithful- influence your daily decisions?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
ADVENT DAY 16 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent JourneyDAY 16:
Religion has always had the hardest time with Jesus. He just wasn’t impressed with it and he refused to buy into it’s premise. The premise was, and is, that those who keep the rules best are better than those who don’t. Jesus' premise was, and is, that no one perfectly keeps the rules and the rules can’t save you anyway. The answer was, and is, grace. Jesus came to introduce us to grace.
So here, the High Priest, the head of all that his religion stood for, strategizes for the demise of the very Messiah they all were looking for. What a strange turn of events! Yet, in Jesus' words you can hear the conviction and belief that all things were going to work together for good. “You will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.”
As we live in a world of such turmoil and pain may we remember that truth. Jesus is coming again soon. All things will work together for good. This Advent season, let’s remember that nothing can separate us from his love and he that began the good work in us will complete it.
Mark 14:60-62 (niv)
“Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, “Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?” But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” “I am,” said Jesus. “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
Where do you need to take a big drink from the fountain of grace today? Where does it need to become “all about Jesus” again?
Is there a worry that keeps you up at night or abides in you like a low level tension? Can you give that up today and exchange it for the confidence that all things are going to work together for good?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
Torrey Pines Church E-Blast : Check this out from Torrey Pines Church "The latest and greatest from TPC"
Sunday, December 18, 2016
Voices
Week 2
Dave GibbonsIf you walk through a busy store, stand in a crowded stadium, or sit at a table in a busy restaurant, you’ll hear the sound of many voices all speaking at once. In fact, our daily lives leave us saturated with the sound of one voice after another clamoring for our attention. But we’ve found a few very special guest speakers that are distinct and worth your time, and we’ve asked them to join us to share their voices with us. So tune out the noise and crosstalk and turn your ear to some people who have something important to say. Stop for a moment, pause, and listen to these voices.
We will have 3 services on Christmas Eve: at 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm. Invite your family, friends, and neighbors! And if you really wanna have a GREAT time, then why not choose to serve at a service helping with Parking, Greeting, Making Java, Singing in the Choir, or helping in Kids Ministry. If any of that sounds fun to you, please send an email to info@torreypineschurch.org or mark your connection card on Sunday and we'll get you connected. 
Money Study beginning January 8, 2016It will walk you through the basics of budgeting, dumping debt, planning for the future, and much more. Local classes are made up of small groups of people who live in your area and are a great way to share ideas, be encouraged, and stay motivated. Classes meet for nine weeks and are led by a volunteer coordinator. If interested please send an email to info@torreypineschurch.org or mark it on the connection card on Sunday.
Sunday January 15, 2016 at 12:00PM in Hashinger Hall.Are you wondering what’s at the heart of Torrey Pines Church, or why we do what we do around here? Come check out our membership class. We provide you with lunch for all those who attend, childcare for your kids, and a fast-paced heads up on how things work around here. We’ll give you all the information you need to decide if this church should be your church home. To that end, we’ll let you know right up front that we want you off the sidelines and on the team at Torrey Pines Church!Sound like something you want to try out? If interested please click on this link to register.
January 22, 2016 at 11:45 amAre you interested in getting baptized? Please let us know on your connection card or send an email to info@torreypineschurch.org
January 22, 20169:00 Traditional or 10:30 Modern Service
You can pick which service you want to have your child dedicated in. Please let us know on your connection card or send an email to info@torreypineschurch.or
We want to extend our heartfelt sympathy and prayers to the Beardsley family. Betty, a long time member of Torrey Pines Church, who has been unable to drive and be with us recently, passed away very suddenly this past week. There will be a celebration of Betty's life at Torrey Pines Church once the family has decided on a date. Please pray that her family and friends will find peace and comfort in Jesus.
SERVICE TIMES: We have 2 services on Sunday mornings. They both share the same message and communicator, but with a varied worship context and expression:THE SANCTUARY meets at 9:00am and is traditional worship setting that embraces historical hymns and liturgical traditions with an authentic faith.
THE AUDITORIUM meets at 10:30am and is a worship experience where the music is louder, led by a live band, and authentic faith is celebrated.
Kids (birth - 5th grade)
Torrey Kids meet in the Berry Center and the Admin Buidling during both services.
Youth (6th - 12th grade)
Torrey Youth meet at 10:30am in Wyle Chapel.
TPC Choir Rehearsal
Thursdays at 7:00pm
Canyonview Room
Surf Ministry
Thursdays at 8:00am-1:00pm
17th Street in Del Mar
Saturdays at 7:00am-6:00pm
La Jolla Shores
Email: Bob Bishop
PRAYER:
We care about you and want you to know that you are not alone in your situation.Please email your request to our prayer team @ prayer@torreypineschurch.org and they will join you in prayer for
your specific needs and concerns.
SERVING OPPORTUNITIES:
Are you interested in joining the First Impressions, Worship Team, Kitchen Crew, or Campus Team? Please send an email to info@torreypineschurch.org and we will get you plugged in.
$ ONLINE GIVING:
Click here to give online
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.
Our address is:
8320 La Jolla Scenic Drive North
La Jolla, California 93027, United States
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ADVENT DAY 15- you can start using fingers, only 10 days away. from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
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ADVENT DAY 15- you can start using fingers, only 10 days away. from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent JourneyDAY 15:
But you, O ____________ are only a ____________.
Go ahead and fill your name in the first slot and add whatever it is to the second slot that makes you feel insignificant. But you... are only a housewife. But you... are only a college freshman. But you... are only in middle management. But you... are from a poor family. But you... are a raider fan. But you... are an addict.
It really doesn't matter what you think ultimately disqualifies you from being used by God. What does matter is that you know all of it is a lie. Micah, written about 700 years before the arrival of our Savior, prophesied that a small, insignificant blip in the road would become the birthplace of the King of Kings. He told a people who felt insignificant, "One day you'll be counted as the most blessed on the planet."
And it turns out, he was right! This advent, let's remind the devil and that voice in our head, that the King of Kings loves to take up residence in the ignored, the broken, the down-trodden, and seemingly insignificant. When we are at our least, Jesus shows up the greatest. That's a God worth looking forward to.
Micah 5:2-4 (niv)
“But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, are only a small village in Judah.
Yet a ruler of Israel will come from you, one whose origins are from the distant past. The people of Israel will be abandoned to their enemies until the time when the woman in labor gives birth to her son. Then at last his fellow countrymen will return from exile to their own land. And he will stand to lead his flock with the Lord’s strength, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. Then his people will live there undisturbed, for he will be highly honored all around the world.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
What makes you feel insignificant? When do you feel the most "useful" for God?
When you think of Jesus' birth being prophesied 700 years earlier, it puts a whole new perspective on what "waiting on a promise of God" looks like. What do you find yourself doubting God can still do, because it just seems like too much time has passed since he last did it? What would believing God again for that same thing look like?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
ADVENT DAY 14 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent JourneyDAY 14:
Shepherds in Jesus’ time were not the idyllic, nativity scene characters we imagine. They were rough. They really were not that welcome in public, kind of the hardcore bikers of their day. And yet, it was to them that the angels appeared, gave the news, and sent out as witnesses of Jesus.
All through the Scriptures we see this thread. God is constantly reaching and using the least of these to accomplish his work. He loves to breathe value into the outcast, the poor, the ignored, and the dismissed and show them they are none of those things.
It's why the Shepherd's story is not that far from our own. Some of us are a bit rough around the edges, very few of us are social icons, and most of us would rather not hang out in a smelly barn with a baby. But, regardless, all of us are called to carry the same message, “Jesus has come!”
Luke 2: 8-14 (niv)
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.””
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
Where have you, like an outcast shepherd, begun to believe that God can use you? What new part of your life can you begin to invite God into?
Where has God given you a message to share of his love and presence with others?
What can you do this week to subtly or even overtly call people to come meet Jesus? Is there an invite or a phone call or a social media post that would be a powerful tool in your friend group to inviting people to celebrate and discover Jesus with you this Christmas?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
ADVENT DAY 13 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent Journey
DAY 13:
Some people will receive this e-mail devotional and read it. But if the tracking data is correct, then the truth is that most will not. It will be lost in the pile of e-mails that just simply can't all be read.
This is also not a new reality. Not everyone was looking for the Messiah in Jesus' day and of those who were, many still missed him. Despite all the miracles Jesus performed that drew attention his way, Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah's physical appearance actually made him quite missable. Consequently, many missed his coming all together. Today, many have and continue to miss him too.
In some ways, we could say that Advent is a season reserved for those who intentionally look for God. Those who anticipate what is to come have their eye on the horizon. They are searching for signs of God's movement, help on the way, hope in the future.
This Advent, let's be among those who don't miss the Messiah.
Isaiah 53: 1-7 (nlt)
“Who has believed our message? To whom will the Lord reveal his saving power? My servant grew up in the Lord’s presence like a tender green shoot, sprouting from a root in dry and sterile ground. There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance, nothing to attract us to him. He was despised and rejected—a man of sorrows, acquainted with bitterest grief.
We turned our backs on him and looked the other way when he went by. He was despised, and we did not care. Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God for his own sins! But he was wounded and crushed for our sins. He was beaten that we might have peace. He was whipped, and we were healed! All of us have strayed away like sheep. We have left God’s paths to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on him the guilt and sins of us all. He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word.
He was led as a lamb to the slaughter. And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, he did not open his mouth.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
If you think back over the course of your life, what significant events or life turns did you not see coming?
When did Jesus become your "Savior"? Spend some time thanking God for what he has done in your life through Jesus.
Re-read this passage in the singular instead of the plural: inserting "my" for every place it says "our" and inserting "I" everywhere it says "we". How does that change the impact of this text? How does it make you feel to personalize Isaiah's Messianic prophecy that way?
DAY 13:
Some people will receive this e-mail devotional and read it. But if the tracking data is correct, then the truth is that most will not. It will be lost in the pile of e-mails that just simply can't all be read.
This is also not a new reality. Not everyone was looking for the Messiah in Jesus' day and of those who were, many still missed him. Despite all the miracles Jesus performed that drew attention his way, Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah's physical appearance actually made him quite missable. Consequently, many missed his coming all together. Today, many have and continue to miss him too.
In some ways, we could say that Advent is a season reserved for those who intentionally look for God. Those who anticipate what is to come have their eye on the horizon. They are searching for signs of God's movement, help on the way, hope in the future.
This Advent, let's be among those who don't miss the Messiah.
Isaiah 53: 1-7 (nlt)
“Who has believed our message? To whom will the Lord reveal his saving power? My servant grew up in the Lord’s presence like a tender green shoot, sprouting from a root in dry and sterile ground. There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance, nothing to attract us to him. He was despised and rejected—a man of sorrows, acquainted with bitterest grief.
We turned our backs on him and looked the other way when he went by. He was despised, and we did not care. Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God for his own sins! But he was wounded and crushed for our sins. He was beaten that we might have peace. He was whipped, and we were healed! All of us have strayed away like sheep. We have left God’s paths to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on him the guilt and sins of us all. He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word.
He was led as a lamb to the slaughter. And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, he did not open his mouth.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
If you think back over the course of your life, what significant events or life turns did you not see coming?
When did Jesus become your "Savior"? Spend some time thanking God for what he has done in your life through Jesus.
Re-read this passage in the singular instead of the plural: inserting "my" for every place it says "our" and inserting "I" everywhere it says "we". How does that change the impact of this text? How does it make you feel to personalize Isaiah's Messianic prophecy that way?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
ADVENT DAY 12 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent JourneyDAY 12:
Have you ever heard the song, "Save Room", by John Legend? It's a love song that repeats the line, "Save room for my love".
What if the Innkeeper of the Bethlehem Best Western had done just that and "saved some room" for God's love? Do you think he regrets turning Joseph and Mary away because his space was too full? Regardless, his lack of room didn’t thwart God.
On the contrary, Jesus was born in a stable, the lowest point socio-economically, for a reason. Wherever we go, whatever happens to us, Jesus is there. This is the humblest, least pretentious entrance a king could ever make. For the rest of his earthly life, Jesus carried himself with the gentle humility he entered with, even to the end, the cross.
This Advent, let's do both: save room for God's love and humbly follow in our Savior's footsteps.
Luke 2:1-7(niv)
“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register.
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
If Jesus were to say to us, “Save room for my love,” what might that look like?
What person most modeled gentle humility in your life?
Where might humbling ourselves be in order this Advent Season?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
A letter from Pastor Robert from Torrey Pines Church
Dear Torrey Pines Church Community,I wanted to share some very exciting news with you. November 7 through November 17th, 2017, Pastor Mike Meeks and I will be leading a trip to Israel. DeeDee and I have led groups to Israel since 2000. Introducing people to the land of the Bible is one of the great joys of our lives.
Rather that attempt to unpack all the details I’ll direct you to a web brochure so you can get all the details and register online… www.morningstartours.com/ELC930
We will stay in Jerusalem at David Citadel Hotel http://www.thedavidcitadel.com and Scots Hotel on the Sea of Galilee. http://www.scotshotels.co.il/?categoryId=75026
Both hotels are excellent... really excellent, and only having to pack up and move once is a real plus. Check them both out online…
We will depart Tuesday November 7th and arrive home Friday November 17th. This trip will be available to the Eastlake Network, so space is limited. I encourage you to sign up and reserve your spot as soon as possible.
Pastor Robert
P.S. We are also considering adding another tour destination to the front end of these dates to Rome, Italy for those interested. Others of you who would like to extend your trip and visit another destination in Europe can also be accommodated.
P.S.S. If you have questions, email my assistant at mmartin@torreypineschurch.organd I’ll get right back to you.
Copyright © 2016 EastLake Church, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is:
EastLake Church
990 Lane Avenue
Chula Vista, California 91914, United States
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ADVENT DAY 11 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
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ADVENT DAY 11 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent JourneyDAY 11:
Have you ever met someone and thought, "I really want to be your friend"? Maybe you "met" them through their writing. Maybe you watched them parent or lead or laugh from a distance and you thought... "I really want to be like them." Maybe you were introduced at a work function or maybe you eventually got married.
But whoever that is you're thinking of, they cannot compare to the description Isaiah gives us of the Messiah. It's as if he describes the ultimate - "Can I please be your friend?" - person you'll ever meet.
There is no better person to anticipate this Advent.
Isaiah 42:1-6 (nlt)
“Look at my servant, whom I strengthen. He is my chosen one, and I am pleased with him. I have put my Spirit upon him. He will reveal justice to the nations. He will be gentle—he will not shout or raise his voice in public. He will not crush those who are weak or quench the smallest hope. He will bring full justice to all who have been wronged. He will not stop until truth and righteousness prevail throughout the earth. Even distant lands beyond the sea will wait for his instruction.” God, the Lord, created the heavens and stretched them out. He created the earth and everything in it. He gives breath and life to everyone in all the world. And it is he who says, “I, the Lord, have called you to demonstrate my righteousness. I will guard and support you, for I have given you to my people as the personal confirmation of my covenant with them. And you will be a light to guide all nations to me.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
Who have you met in life that you're so glad you're now friends?
What character trait of the Messiah that Isaiah describes most encourages you?
Whenever we think of God, there are two types of character traits that we discover. There are the non-transferrable ones that are God-only. Like being all-knowing. But then there are the transferrable ones that can be true of us too. Like being loving. As you read the description Isaiah gives us of the Messiah, which transferrable character trait do you most want to emulate. Which one makes you say, "I want to be like that too!"?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
ADVENT DAY 10 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent JourneyDAY 10:
There aren't a lot of guarantees about tomorrow.
The financial advice of brokers is based on experiences & trends, but not on promises of what is coming. Medical counsel is part science and part art, so people say, "Get a second opinion before you have that surgery". Counselors share proven wisdom, but they can't offer to control the relational outcomes. Insurance agents offer replacement values, but can do nothing to stop a tragedy from occurring.
There just simply are not a lot of times when you can say, "I guarantee it"... and especially when the subject is something still to come. But when it comes to Advent, we know the Scriptures are clear. What's on the horizon is 100% guaranteed to be there.
The Messiah has come and is coming. Advent is about both and both are guaranteed. The Savior came as a baby and was crucified on the cross. He has also risen and is coming back and every knee will bow and tongue confess that Jesus is Lord.
Jesus' birth, death, resurrection, and return are all part of what we celebrate and anticipate at Advent.
Philippians 2:5-11 (niv)
“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
What do you wish you could guarantee about tomorrow?
What piece of Philippians 2 gives you the most encouragement? What piece challenges you the most?
Jesus' life on earth is described in this text as that of a humble servant. As Jesus-followers today, how can each of us follow in his footsteps and live a life of humble servanthood now?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
Torrey Pines Church E-Blast: OPEN OPEN OPEN from Torrey Pines Church "The latest and greatest from TPC"
Sunday, December 11, 2016
Voices
Week 1
Danielle Strickland
If you walk through a busy store, stand in a crowded stadium, or sit at a table in a busy restaurant, you’ll hear the sound of many voices all speaking at once. In fact, our daily lives leave us saturated with the sound of one voice after another clamoring for our attention. But we’ve found a few very special guest speakers that are distinct and worth your time, and we’ve asked them to join us to share their voices with us. So tune out the noise and crosstalk and turn your ear to some people who have something important to say. Stop for a moment, pause, and listen to these voices.
We will have 3 services on Christmas Eve: at 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm. Invite your family, friends, and neighbors! And if you really wanna have a GREAT time, then why not choose to serve at a service helping with Parking, Greeting, Making Java, Singing in the Choir, or helping in Kids Ministry. If any of that sounds fun to you, please send an email to info@torreypineschurch.org or mark your connection card on Sunday and we'll get you connected. Money Study beginning January 8, 2016It will walk you through the basics of budgeting, dumping debt, planning for the future, and much more. Local classes are made up of small groups of people who live in your area and are a great way to share ideas, be encouraged, and stay motivated. Classes meet for nine weeks and are led by a volunteer coordinator. If interested please send an email to info@torreypineschurch.org or mark it on the connection card on Sunday.
Sunday January 15, 2017 at 12:00PM in Hashinger Hall.Are you wondering what’s at the heart of Torrey Pines Church, or why we do what we do around here? Come check out our membership class. We provide you with lunch for all those who attend, childcare for your kids, and a fast-paced heads up on how things work around here. We’ll give you all the information you need to decide if this church should be your church home. To that end, we’ll let you know right up front that we want you off the sidelines and on the team at Torrey Pines Church!Sound like something you want to try out? If interested please click on this link to register.
January 22, 2017 at 11:45 amAre you interested in getting baptized? Please let us know on your connection card or send an email to info@torreypineschurch.org
January 22, 20179:00 Traditional or 10:30 Modern Service
You can pick which service you want to have your child dedicated in. Please let us know on your connection card or send an email to info@torreypineschurch.org
SERVICE TIMES: We have 2 services on Sunday mornings. They both share the same message and communicator, but with a varied worship context and expression:THE SANCTUARY meets at 9:00am and is traditional worship setting that embraces historical hymns and liturgical traditions with an authentic faith.
THE AUDITORIUM meets at 10:30am and is a worship experience where the music is louder, led by a live band, and authentic faith is celebrated.
Kids (birth - 5th grade)
Torrey Kids meet in the Berry Center and the Admin Buidling during both services.
Youth (6th - 12th grade)
Torrey Youth meet at 10:30am in Wyle Chapel.
TPC Choir Rehearsal
Thursdays at 7:00pm
Canyonview Room
Surf Ministry
Thursdays at 8:00am-1:00pm
17th Street in Del Mar
Saturdays at 7:00am-6:00pm
La Jolla Shores
Email: Bob Bishop
PRAYER:
We care about you and want you to know that you are not alone in your situation.Please email your request to our prayer team @ prayer@torreypineschurch.org and they will join you in prayer for
your specific needs and concerns.
SERVING OPPORTUNITIES:
Are you interested in joining the First Impressions, Worship Team, Kitchen Crew, or Campus Team? Please send an email to info@torreypineschurch.org and we will get you plugged in.
$ ONLINE GIVING:
Click here to give online
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.
Our address is:
8320 La Jolla Scenic Drive North
La Jolla, California 93027, United States
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ADVENT DAY 8 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
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ADVENT DAY 8 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent Journey
DAY 8: Israel was very confident they knew what the Messiah would look like, what he would do, and how he would do it. They knew he would come in a blaze of glory and overthrow the Roman rulers. And yet, it was ultimately what so many "knew" that caused them to miss the Messiah.
Moses knew he was to live in the country, not lead his people out of slavery. Gideon knew he wanted to create a strong army of thousands, not go into battle with a Godly band of hundreds. David knew he was was to be a shepherd, not a King. Mary knew she was to marry and then have kids, not to get engaged and wake up one day pregnant. Joseph knew he should quietly divorce his fiancee, not to walk an isle with a woman in waiting.
But God has a way of inserting his better plan into our already solid plan. It's one of the things Advent is all about. It's about trust and faith. It's about counting down the days not to my secure plans, but to the reminder that what I know is not always what God knows. It's about deciding, no matter what comes tomorrow, I will choose to turn away from fear and turn toward God.
Matthew 1:18-23 (niv)
“This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
What is true of your life today that you did not see coming, could not have planned, and are thankful God did in you anyway?
Re-read the Matthew text and this time, insert yourself as Joseph or Mary. Imagine the anticipation you would have for marriage and all that this news of a baby meant. What would you be feeling and what did they both have to do to follow through with God's plan over their plan? How does that inform your own faith today?
The promise is still true. God is still with us. How can that promise change the way you live today and even how you "plan" for tomorrow?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
ADVENT DAY 9 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent JourneyDAY 9:
Who says what God says is going to happen is really going to happen?
These verses describe it in poetic language, but what it describes are some pretty tall orders. Every mountain leveled, every valley raised, all roughness smoothed, every crooked way made straight. In other words, God is going to make everything right. Who says so? God does.
An interesting thing about what God says is this; no power can resist it. God spoke, and all creation came into being. God promises, and one by one, each one is kept. That’s the power of God's word, and his word is active in us.
That's another reason we anticipate the birth and return of our Savior. Because we long to be present with the God who can command and control creation with the power of his words alone.
Isaiah 40:3-8 (niv)
A voice of one calling:
“In the desert prepare the way for the LORD;
make straight in the wilderness
a highway for our God.
Every valley shall be raised up,
every mountain and hill made low;
the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain.
And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all mankind
together will see it.
For the mouth of the LORD
has spoken.”
A voice says, “Cry out.”
And I said, “What shall I cry?”
“All men are like grass,
and all their glory is like the flowers of the field.
The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the LORD blows on them.
Surely the people are grass.
The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of
our God stands forever.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
What word from God has come to pass in your life, maybe in an astounding way?
Reflect on the ways God may use in a given week to speak to you and how are you facilitating those times?
What have you discovered in life is like grass- it just comes and goes? How has God's eternal presence & promises in your life changed what you depend on for strength?”
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
ADVENT DAY 7 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent Journey...making an intentional lean towards Christmas as a community of faith.
DAY 7:
The prophet Micah proclaimed, "And [the Messiah] will be the source of our peace." That's quite the statement don't you think? We might all nod our heads and say "Amen" in agreement, but it is a lot easier to say, "Jesus is the source of my peace" than it is to actually let him be that source.
Our personal plans, our close friends & family, and our material possessions are all tempting sources for peace. But each of those will inevitably let us down. When they do, that's when we are reminded that God and God alone is the source of true peace.
When we get bad news...
When our bills aren't paid...
When we are betrayed by someone we love...
When our cars won't start...
When our "why questions" have no answers....
Those are the days when we really NEED Jesus to be the Prince of Peace. So as we lean into Advent another day, let's seek to find our peace in the only source we really have for it in the first place...
Micah 5:2-5 (nlt)
“But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, are only a small village in Judah. Yet a ruler of Israel will come from you, one whose origins are from the distant past. The people of Israel will be abandoned to their enemies until the time when the woman in labor gives birth to her son. Then at last his fellow countrymen will return from exile to their own land. And he will stand to lead his flock with the Lord’s strength, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. Then his people will live there undisturbed, for he will be highly honored all around the world. And he will be the source of our peace.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
Where are you tempted to try and find peace when you aren't finding it in God?
When have you been most at peace with God? What did that feel like and why were you at peace with God in that moment?
What area of your life needs the Prince of Peace most these days? Pray and invite God into that area today.
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
ADVENT DAY 6 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent Journey
...making an intentional lean towards Christmas as a community of faith.
DAY 6:
Remember waiting for teams to be picked as a kid. Were you the first chosen, middle of the pack, or did people argue over who had to have you?
God chose Mary for her assignment and God chose you for yours. Out of all the earth, he chose you. Joyfully, willingly, and intentionally, he chose you. For eternity, he chose you.
So, with a clear conscience, let’s look in the mirror and say, “Greetings, highly favored of the Lord.”
Luke 1:26-33 (niv)
“In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
Think back on a time when you weren’t chosen and reflect on that experience. What was your response and what feelings did it stir up in you?
Now, reflect on this, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last*.” Reflect on how that makes you feel and share those feelings with someone near to you today. *John 15:6
...making an intentional lean towards Christmas as a community of faith.
DAY 6:
Remember waiting for teams to be picked as a kid. Were you the first chosen, middle of the pack, or did people argue over who had to have you?
God chose Mary for her assignment and God chose you for yours. Out of all the earth, he chose you. Joyfully, willingly, and intentionally, he chose you. For eternity, he chose you.
So, with a clear conscience, let’s look in the mirror and say, “Greetings, highly favored of the Lord.”
Luke 1:26-33 (niv)
“In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
Think back on a time when you weren’t chosen and reflect on that experience. What was your response and what feelings did it stir up in you?
Now, reflect on this, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last*.” Reflect on how that makes you feel and share those feelings with someone near to you today. *John 15:6
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
ADVENT DAY 5 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent Journey...making an intentional lean towards Christmas as a community of faith.
DAY 5:
Has anyone ever told you, "You just wait, your day will come"; and if they did, was that a promise or a threat? Did it mean you had good things on the horizon or a negative consequence coming down the hatch?
If you heard it in church, there's a good chance it was the negative one. "You just wait, your sin will find you out. Your day will come." But that's not the message of Advent. It's not the message of the long promised Messiah and it's not the message of the second Advent of Christ either. The birth and return of Jesus are not primarily couched in the threat of the arrival of God's judgment, but rather the restoration of all good things.
John's gospel records this truth so clearly: "For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." (3:17)
Read the words of Jeremiah below. Let's listen to this promise of good things to come and join with ancient Israel and anticipate the bringer of all good things.
Jeremiah 33:14-18 (nlt)
““The day will come, says the Lord, when I will do for Israel and Judah all the good I have promised them.
At that time I will bring to the throne of David a righteous descendant, and he will do what is just and right throughout the land. In that day Judah will be saved, and Jerusalem will live in safety. And their motto will be ‘The Lord is our righteousness!’ For this is what the Lord says: David will forever have a descendant sitting on the throne of Israel. And there will always be Levitical priests to offer burnt offerings and grain offerings and sacrifices to me.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
What good things has God brought into your life recently? What can you praise God for today?
James 1:17 says “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” In John 10:10, Jesus promised "That he has come to bring us life, and life abudantly." This list could go on and on... So, what Bible verse(s) bring you hope and remind you that Jesus wants to bring you good things?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
ADVENT DAY 4 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent Journey...making an intentional lean towards Christmas as a community of faith.
DAY 3:
Do you ever just tire of waiting? Or maybe when prayers are not being answered you think, "I know it’s not about performance or perfection, but does God see how hard I’m trying?”
Those are words we might never voice but that doesn't mean we aren't silently expressing them in our head. It’s seems that God can be crystal clear on what he wants, but far less forthcoming on when and how he will respond. His timing is not always ours.
Elizabeth and Zechariah had undoubtedly come to the conclusion that the hope of most all Jewish couples, to have a child, was not in the cards for them. And yet, God was up to something far beyond their wildest dreams.
Could the same be in the works for us this Advent?
Luke 1:5-7, 13-15 (niv)
“In the time of Herod king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah; his wife Elizabeth was also a descendant of Aaron. Both of them were righteous in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commands and decrees blamelessly. But they were childless because Elizabeth was not able to conceive, and they were both very old.”
...“But the angel said to him:
“Do not be afraid, Zechariah;
your prayer has been heard.
Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.
He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord."
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
Where has God called you to that “long obedience?”
What dream have you put to rest that needs to be woken up? What would waking it up look like for you?
Who in your life could use some encouragement to “hang in there?” How could you encourage them today?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration!
Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
ADVENT DAY 3 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
Continuing the Advent Journey...making an intentional lean towards Christmas as a community of faith.
DAY 3:
What titles do you embrace in life? Maybe some combination of... Mom. Dad. Brother. Sister. Husband. Wife. Grandma. Papa. Boss. Co-worker. Business owner. Charger fan. Jesus follower. Coach. Chocolate lover. Cancer survivor. Friend. Painter. Teacher. Lawyer. Therapist...
Maybe our titles are about a God-given role we play in someone's life. Maybe they are about our character or our passion. But regardless of why we have embraced them, our titles shape us and our identity. When you say, "I am a ________", it's meaningful. It's why we don't let our kids say "I'm such an idiot" or "I'm a loser"; because the truths we believe about our titles determine the identity we live into.
This is a profound truth in the context of Advent too. When we think of the Messiah, the titles we ascribe to him are shaping for us. They tell us about our beliefs and even our own identity. If we believe God is our "Wonderful Counselor" and the "Prince of Peace", then that's radically different than the "Judge in the Sky" or "Distant Deity" that so many have decided God to be. When we anticipate the birth and return of a Savior... the titles we use to describe him determine the joy we will attach to his imminent arrival.
Listen to how Isaiah describes the coming of the Christ Child and the titles he reminds us he will embody...
Isaiah 9:2-7 (nlt)
“The people who walk in darkness will see a great light—a light that will shine on all who live in the land where death casts its shadow. Israel will again be great, and its people will rejoice as people rejoice at harvest time. They will shout with joy like warriors dividing the plunder. For God will break the chains that bind his people and the whip that scourges them, just as he did when he destroyed the army of Midian with Gideon’s little band. In that day of peace, battle gear will no longer be issued. Never again will uniforms be bloodstained by war. All such equipment will be burned.
For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. And the government will rest on his shoulders. These will be his royal titles: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His ever expanding, peaceful government will never end. He will rule forever with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David. The passionate commitment of the Lord Almighty will guarantee this!”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
What titles do you embrace in life? Why are they important or what do they mean to you?
Isaiah uses a lot of metaphors to describe the joy that the promised Messiah would bring to the nation of Israel. If you were writing to our culture today and trying to tell them what it is like to experience the joy of a life with God, what image would you use to describe someone experiencing it? "It will be like ________"
The end of Chapter 9 is perhaps one of the most famous Christmas texts describing Jesus. When you read the list of "royal titles" or descriptions that are given to the Messiah, which one makes you want to say "YES! I need that today!" ?
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.-------
Torrey Pines Church E-Blast : almost as awesome as ice cream for breakfast. from Torrey Pines Church "The latest and greatest from TPC"
Sunday, December 4, 2016
SHORT | TAKES
WEEK 2
The Great Reversal
We’ve all been there: gathered around the dinner table during the holidays while our Great Aunt tells us about her trip to the Poconos and the story goes on and on. And on. Everyone is nodding politely…while inside we’re yelling “get to the point!” It takes a true talent to explain a big idea in a bite-size chunk that’s both interesting and easy to understand. Jesus taught many of his lessons just like this: short and to the point, but still memorable and purposeful. Join us for our series, “Short Takes” as we look at a few of his most powerful and meaningful teachings.
"But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first"[Matthew 19:30 (NIV)]
We will have 3 services on Christmas Eve: at 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm. Invite your family, friends, and neighbors! And if you really wanna have a GREAT time, then why not choose to serve at a service helping with Parking, Greeting, Making Java, Singing in the Choir, or helping in Kids Ministry. If any of that sounds fun to you, please send an email to info@torreypineschurch.org or mark your connection card on Sunday and we'll get you connected.There will be a Money Study beginning January 8, 2016. It will walk you through the basics of budgeting, dumping debt, planning for the future, and much more. Local classes are made up of small groups of people who live in your area and are a great way to share ideas, be encouraged, and stay motivated. Classes meet for nine weeks and are led by a volunteer coordinator. If interested please send an email to info@torreypineschurch.org or mark it on the connection card on Sunday.
SERVICE TIMES: We have 2 services on Sunday mornings. They both share the same message and communicator, but with a varied worship context and expression:THE SANCTUARY meets at 9:00am and is traditional worship setting that embraces historical hymns and liturgical traditions with an authentic faith.
THE AUDITORIUM meets at 10:30am and is a worship experience where the music is louder, led by a live band, and authentic faith is celebrated.
Kids (birth - 5th grade)
Torrey Kids meet in the Berry Center and the Admin Buidling during both services.
Youth (6th - 12th grade)
Torrey Youth meet at 10:30am in Wyle Chapel.
TPC Choir Rehearsal
Thursdays at 7:00pm
Canyonview Room
Surf Ministry
Thursdays at 8:00am-1:00pm
17th Street in Del Mar
Saturdays at 7:00am-6:00pm
La Jolla Shores
Email: Bob Bishop
PRAYER:
We care about you and want you to know that you are not alone in your situation.Please email your request to our prayer team @ prayer@torreypineschurch.org and they will join you in prayer for
your specific needs and concerns.
SERVING OPPORTUNITIES:
Are you interested in joining the First Impressions, Worship Team, Kitchen Crew, or Campus Team? Please send an email to info@torreypineschurch.org and we will get you plugged in.
$ ONLINE GIVING:
Click here to give online
Copyright © 2016 Torrey Pines Church, All rights reserved.
Our address is:
8320 La Jolla Scenic Drive North
La Jolla, California 93027, United States
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ADVENT DAY 2 from Torrey Pines Church "Advent Readings for Torrey Pines Church"
View this email in your browser
Continuing the Advent Journey...making an intentional lean towards Christmas as a community of faith.
DAY 2:
Have you ever heard the phrase, "Start with the end in mind"? As it turns out it's pretty solid advice. It works for getting good grades, landing a business deal, investing your money, dating someone worth marrying, and a grip of other topics. It even works with Advent; when the Savior is what our eyes are set on, it shapes our daily decisions and reorganizes our priorities.
Maybe that's what John was thinking when he started his gospel. Maybe he was writing to remind his readers that when God started creating, he had the end in mind. He knew that even though creation would be filled with his presence, one day his own people -created in his image- would choose to do their own thing. But that's not where the story ends.
When we wander off and eventually find ourselves in the dark, that's when the enemy think's he's got us right where he wants us... and that's the same place where Jesus enters our story. On our darkest days, the light of God shines brightest.
Listen to these words as the apostle John begins his account of Jesus' life:
John 1: 1-5 (niv)
“In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God,
and the Word was God.
He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life,
and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
In life we all have our dark days. How have you seen the light of God show up in some of your darkest moments?
If you started telling a friend of how your intentional faith in Jesus began by using the words, "In the beginning"... what would you say next? In the beginning I was..... In the beginning I discovered... In the beginning I knew....
Save the date and invite your friends and family for a great celebration! Christmas Eve services will be at 2, 4, and 6 pm on Saturday, December 24th!
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