The Church at Litchfield Park

Dear Church at Litchfield Park family,

On Sunday, we explored the message found in Revelation 4:1-11 (NIV). This passage provides a glimpse into the heavenly realm.

"After this, I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, 'Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.' At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it. And the one who sat there had the appearance of jasper and ruby. A rainbow that shone like an emerald encircled the throne. Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and seated on them were twenty-four elders. They were dressed in white and had crowns of gold on their heads. From the throne came flashes of lightning, rumblings, and peals of thunder. In front of the throne, seven lamps were blazing. These are the seven spirits of God. Also, in front of the throne, there was what looked like a sea of glass, clear as crystal.

In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes, in front and in back. The first living creature was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under its wings. Day and night, they never stop saying:

'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.'

Whenever the living creatures give glory, honor, and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say:

'You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will, they were created and have their being.'"

This remarkable vision of the heavenly throne room holds significance for us today. Here are some questions to guide us:

As we envision the heavenly throne room, what feelings of awe and reverence does it evoke within us? How can we cultivate a deeper sense of wonder and reverence for God in our everyday lives?
The four living creatures continually declare the holiness of God. What can we learn from their worship and praise? How can we adopt a posture of continual worship in our own lives?
The twenty-four elders lay down their crowns before God and acknowledge His worthiness to receive glory, honor, and power. How can we emulate their humble surrender and recognition of God's sovereignty in our lives?
What lessons can we draw from this heavenly scene to inspire our worship and service to God? How can we allow this vision to shape our perspective on God's creative power and His eternal reign?

As we reflect on these questions, may the Holy Spirit illuminate our hearts and minds. May we continually surrender our crowns of earthly achievements and accolades before the throne of God, acknowledging His supreme worthiness and sovereignty.

Together, as one body in Christ, let us strive to cultivate a spirit of worship and surrender. May our lives reflect the awe and reverence we have for our holy God. May our worship be a continual offering of praise, adoration, and surrender. May we declare the worthiness of God to receive all glory, honor, and power. And as we worship, may our lives be transformed and empowered to fulfill God's purposes in this world.

Stewardship for me means freely sharing your time, talent and treasure. It’s acknowledging that you have been blessed and paying those blessings forward. They are the gifts you give because you have been given.

Being a good steward can be seen as a selfish act because it usually brings you joy, makes your heart smile, and can bring sun to a cloudy, dark day.

I volunteer my time as much as possible within the church and the community. Volunteering has brought me so much pleasure. When I volunteer, I know whatever the task, it is thoughtfully received and appreciated. There are so many volunteer opportunities at church. Whether it’s serving as an usher, serving with Helping Hands, or helping with kid’s events, volunteering has helped me get to know and form very special relationships within our church family.

As a volunteer at Agua Fria Food and Clothing Bank, I help serve a population in our community often forgotten. Hopefully making a difference in the life of at least one person by providing hope during a difficult season. The rewards are instant! I so often hear a tearful, “God bless you” or “thank you for being here”. Hope filled eyes can propel me through a very busy day and oftentimes have a positive impact on a challenging day. I honestly believe that I receive more than I give. This is my community family.

I have no special talents. I can’t sing or craft. I have tried both but those are just not gifts God blessed me with. My one talent, if you can call it that, is that I am a very good listener. I don’t usually have a lot of answers, but I will actively listen to whatever you need to verbalize. I had a friend tell me once, I just needed someone to talk to. Throughout my many career endeavors, I have always enjoyed listening without judgement, which seems to encourage conversation that can sometimes bring resolution.

When we think of treasure as it relates to the church, we usually think of money. But when I think treasure, I think in terms of “being fortunate”. I am fortunate - blessed - to have, therefore it is a blessing to be able to give. The treasures I possess, though not vast, I joyfully share to help others who may not be as fortunate. Giving in good faith doesn’t require that you give a huge amount. It could be as little, or as much, as you are able. It could be three cents. Knowing that whatever treasures you pass on, will be used for the good and betterment of others.

Stewardship through Worship, has kept me strong in faith. It keeps me grounded.

Brenda Martin Worship, Board of Directors