Sunday, Jan. 18th, 2009 -- "What makes a Cup a Cup?"

Have you ever wondered what makes a cup a cup? We have so many different kinds. Different shapes, different sizes, tall, short, fat, skinny. We have bra cups, athletic cups. and even sipi-cups for kids. But, what characteristics does a cup have that qualifies it for being a cup? I know this is deep. But, the answer is obvious; it's just a cup! We know when we see a cup. We know when we see a glass and we know when we see a bowl and even though they can do the same thing as a cup we still don't call them cups. This illustration's just for fun to help us understand another obvious truth.

What makes a servant a servant? The answer is simple. We know when we see a servant. A servant of God sticks out in a crowd. They are separated from the majority. Christ said these people were his friends. In John 15:15 Christ says, "I no longer call you servants because a servant does not know his masters business. Instead I call you friends." In John 12:26 Jesus says 'where I am my servants will be with me.'

I believe our church is full of servants who would qualify to be friends with God. This is why I believe our church has such an amazing future in Christ. If we continue to put Christ first and serve him faithfully our church will grow and further the kingdom of God. This is a basic truth, not only for churches, but for our own lives. If we are faithful to serve Christ our lives will be blessed. Jesus said, "What you do for the least of these you do unto me."

Make a commitment to serve Christ daily. Pick up your cross every day and follow him. Where Christ is served and lifted up Christ is exalted. I pray he will be exalted at Shiloh Community Church.