At our annual Reformation Celebration we were reminded of the sacrifices many reformers made for the Gospel. Many were burned at the stake or drowned for their beliefs. I was contemplating the question, "Is it easier to live for Christ in the day to day affairs of life than to make a bold stand and be martyred for Him (or some other really hard thing)?" My sweet, young friend, Natalie, has faced such trials and stated decisively that it is harder to live for Christ in the small things of life. I have said that we won't know if a person will be faithful in the big things of life until that person is faithful with the little things. The popular message we hear a lot about in our theological circles is for young people to Do Hard Things. I agree! I think the hard thing we all need to do is be faithful to follow Christ in the little day to day affairs of Christ. Those things might be a small as making the bed every day, obeying the speed limit (55 MPH means 55 MPH) or they could be bigger things like hanging out with friends that love the Lord and saying no to drugs. We may never be called to die for what we believe, but we don't know how faithful we would be unless we do the work of living for Christ now.

The Reformation

It’s no secret that history is often determined by those who pen its words. Protestants teach their children history. Catholic schools teach their own version of church history. How can we know what’s true in times past? Look at the Scripture. Not the Scriptures rewritten or added to, but God’s Holy Word -the Bible. As our family goes through the Reformation studies again this year, we will continue to at God’s Word. The Reformation was a period of discovery for Christians, not a dark day in history. Yes, there were some men who took their new found zeal to the extreme. But that doesn’t mean that time period isn’t crucial to what we stand on today. We fully intend to learn more of what God’s Word teaches us about baptism, the family, the priesthood of the believer, congregational life, etc. The Reformation was a time when many truths were uncovered, and we as a family will study and continue to dig out those truths.

It's Here!!!

Ray's second book has arrived! This week has been a flurry of excitement and work getting the books mailed out to those who've pre-ordered. Family Worship for the Reformation Season looks even better than Family Worship for the Christmas Season. This book of family devotions focuses on the events, characters and doctrinal truths taught during the Reformation. To order your copy email lori@nourishedintheword.org or go here to see pricing information.

Reformation Celebration

This is the first year our church attempted to have a reformation celebration and it was great. The planning was well worth the effort. Protestant churches all over the world are reaping benefits of stands taken by so many heroes of the faith hundreds of years ago. We played silly games, sang the Reformation polka, and played around with alliterations. We had a hay ride, hot cocoa and chili and roasted marshmallows. The most important activity was the time we spent sitting around the fire and listening as every person in our church read a small paragraph about a hero of the Reformation.

Amazing men and women died horrific deaths so that we might be able to read the Scripture in our own language and know the truths of Scripture. Hugh Lattimer, who was burned at the stake for his beliefs and teachings, told his friend who was martyred with him, "Be of good comfort Mr. Ridley, and play the man. We shall this day light a candle by God's grace, in England, as I trust never shall be put out."

Though there were lots of opportunity for silliness and fun, the truths we read brought on sobering moments for me. I am humbled by the fights they fought as I learn more and try to teach our children.

The photos are of Ray and some of the kids dressed in Medieval attire.