How can it be? These four simple words are essentially the same question we find many spiritual heroes of the Bible asking. We think of Abraham and Sarah when they were told they would have children even in old age. We think of Zechariah, who was likewise told that he and his wife would conceive John the Baptist in their old age. We also think of Mary, who asked the same question of Gabriel when he told her that she too would miraculously conceive Jesus.
There’s numerous other biblical examples I can cite, but what I find interesting about the question is that God doesn’t rebuke the question. Sure, He caused Zechariah to be mute for a time, due to a lack of belief (Luke 1:20). But there isn’t nothing inherently sinful with asking God to reveal to us a little glimpse of His providential plan; to pull back the curtain, so to speak, that we can understand a bit better. A good example of a poor way to ask this is like Job. While Job did remain blameless through the various tribulations to which he was subjected, he ultimately challenged God’s justice and demanded an explanation from God. God responds (speaking in a tornado of all ways) that there are some complexities in life that Job just can’t fully comprehend, know or control. Again, it’s more around how the question is asked.
Ok, so we have a good bad example on how to ask… what about a good one? I’m glad you asked. Let’s look to John 3, with the story of Nicodemus. Here’s a man that was obviously conflicted and had been wrestling with understanding the teachings of this new guy Jesus. This is someone who was a respected leader, someone who was highly educated, and yet he realized that he didn’t have all the answers. Further admission of his own ignorance was the fact that he came at night… he wanted to be seen and recognized by as few people as possible!
So he comes to Jesus and declares (rightly) that Jesus is from God because of the miracles he’s performing. Jesus responds somewhat interestingly: unless you’re born again, you can’t see the kingdom of God. Well, what in the world is that supposed to mean? What’s Nicodemus supposed to do with that? We have the benefit of retrospection, where we know what Jesus means by this. But in the early first century, this was mind-blowing, completely unheard of, out of this world extraordinary talk. What did Jesus mean by that? So Nicodemus asks the question not once, but twice: how can it be? And Jesus patiently and willingly reveals the plan, culminating in probably the most widely well-known Bible verse, John 3:16-17.
Again, we have more information than anyone in history about the plans of God. If one believes in Christ, that God raised Jesus from a painful and humiliating death where He paid a debt that we couldn’t pay ourselves, then God sends His Spirit to dwell within us as a sign and seal that we are purchased and saved from sin. That Spirit works a regenerative process within us, a re-birth, which allows us to not only have a godly worldview on earth to bring about God’s kingdom now, but also gives us a passport to heaven, where our spiritual citizenship resides. And every day we get closer to when Jesus will return to bring about the New Heaven and Earth.
And maybe that at least makes some sense to us. But there are many things in our lives that come up as part of God’s plan and providence, and they simply don’t make sense. This could be good things, like a miraculous healing or the sparing of life against all odds. Conversely, it could be for bad things, like childhood cancer or a loved one killed by a drunk driver. I’m letting you know that if we ask with the correct attitude, God knows the intentions of our hearts. He might not immediately pull apart the clouds and yell at you with a booming voice, but He might just clue you into a bit of His plan. Remember how Jesus typically responded to the teachers of the law, that they were the brood (or offspring) of vipers? Was that how he responded to Nicodemus? No! Jesus dealt mercifully towards him, just as he does with us.
Final thought. I’d be remiss if I didn’t bring up how similar the four word phrase “How can it be?” is to the Charles Wesley hymn, “And Can It Be?” The text of this song is quite rich, as it walks through Wesley’s celebration of his own conversion. Let us be reminded of verse 2: “Tis mystery all! Th’Immortal dies! / Who can explore His strange design? / In vain the firstborn seraph tries / To sound the depths of love divine! / Tis mercy all! Let earth adore, / Let angel minds inquire no more.” Like salvation, God’s design is a mystery. We can wonder what the mind of God is like, but any attempt to fully understand is in vain. Let us approach humbly and ask God to reveal His plan to us in time, and perhaps He will. But we should also be comforted about the boundless depths of the divine love God has for us, and be able to trust that His plan has a perfect design.
See you soon!
Tim Leidy
“All You Can Eat (Yah, Jakey) Luncheon” at the wonderful home of Levi and Lydia Stolzfus takes place on Thursday, October 24th. We will leave the church parking lot at 10:30AM sharp. Please use the sign up sheet in our usual hallway location and indicate if you will be driving (and how many you can take with you) and if you need a ride -- so we can pair folks up! Lunch will be served promptly at 12:00 Noon. If you intend to meet us there, By Rimmer will provide directions. Price for the lunch is $18.00 per person, (and worth every penny!
Summer has come and gone so quickly…However, we’re excited to see what the Lord has planned for us as we gather for the kick-off meeting of the year ahead (September-June). We welcome all ladies to join us Tuesday evening, September 3rd at 7 pm in Room 123 for our monthly Ladies of Leidy’s (LOL) meeting. Together, we’ll start planning how we can serve our Lord, church family and community through LOL ministry. All ladies are welcome. Hope to see you on September 3rd! Feel free to contact Alice Kraus with any questions. 267-261-8543
Beginning September 8 “Habakkuk; Remembering God’s Faithfulness When He Seems Silent” – though this small book is often overlooked, the pages are filled with encouragement during difficult seasons with a strong reminder that God is good even when there is much evil and tragedy in the world around us. Each week there will be a 25 minute teaching video by Danna Gresh followed by discussion among all you fine ladies. Books are optional, just bring Bible and notebook. Questions, please contact Verna 215-237-1370.
Ezekiel - Then You Will Know that I Am the Lord, Part One. Beginning Thursday, September 5th, from 9-11:30 am – we live in a time much like the prophet Ezekiel who encourages us through God’s Word to experience God’s faithfulness when surrounded by uncertainty to reignite hope instead of losing heart. Workbooks $25. This is a large class taught by Marci Stunkard that meets in Room 118. If you will be new to Precept, please contact Verna gvbowman@comcast.net
WHEN SEASONS CHANGE is a ministry of encouragement offered to widows in our church and community. This is an intimate group that meets in our homes once a month (ordinarily on the third Thursday evening 6:30-8 pm) and will begin again in September. We also offer two fellowship trips a year – please join us! For more info contact Donna (weissdonna42@gmail.com) or Verna (gvbowman@comcast.net)
Our sincere Christian sympathy to Patti Jones and family at the death of her husband Roger Jones. May God be with them at this time.
The 2024 BMCE Fall Business & Professional Breakfast takes place Thursday morning, September 12th at the Franconia Heritage Banquet facility in Franconia. Starting time is 6:30 am, and you’ll be on our way by 8. This will be a breakfast buffet with plenty of traditional breakfast fare such as eggs, home fries, several meat choices, pancakes, assorted fruits, and a variety of pastries.
Guest speaker for the occasion is Erik Kratz who is a Telford native. He graduated from Christopher Dock (’98) and Eastern Mennonite University (‘02) before being drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2002 MLB draft. In 2010 he made his MLB debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates, then went on to play for various MLB teams and retired in 2020. Erik was a member of the 2015 World Series Champion Kansas City Royals. He is now co-hosting on a podcast covering MLB topics, and is varsity head coach at Dock Mennonite Academy.
Tickets for the breakfast are $20 p/person and are available from Jack Parry, John Niederhaus, or the church office. This is an ideal event to which you can bring an unchurched colleague, neighbor, or relative.
Come Taste an International Community. The congregation of St. Philip Orthodox Church invites you to their annual International Food Festival. Friday & Saturday, Sept 20 & 21 from 12 noon to 8 pm. This is an event to attend.
Featuring dishes from Ethiopia, Greece, Lebanon, Poland, Romania, Russia, Ukraine, & the USA. Also: Church tours, Children’s Activities, Gift Bazaar, Live Music, Iconography Display.
Taste and see an international Orthodox Christian community! A portion of proceeds goes to benefit local charitable agencies. Go online at www.st-philip.net/festival for more information.
HOPE 4 LIFE is bringing our community together to understand the mental, physical and spiritual needs of those struggling. Featuring: Darryl Strawberry, Ben Fuller, Matt Adams, Joe Nester, It Is Written, 3 Heath Brothers, Freedom In Christ
Do Not Struggle In Silence: There is help and support – come and experience the joy in life! Those who have HOPE in the Lord will renew their strength. they will soar on wings like eagles; They will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint. – Isaiah 40:31
Christians are invited to attend and participate, but they are not the target audience. We should attend and invite folk we know who might be struggling: the teen who is headed down the wrong track, the woman who is disillusioned with life, the couple who is struggling with marital difficulties.
Lots of volunteers are needed. Go to www.sweatshirtofhope.org and click on the volunteer tab and you’ll find plenty of volunteer opportunities. You’ll find lots of other information at that website as well, so check it out.
This event takes place right across from Jesse’s Barbeque on County Line Road. The dates are September 20 and 21.
Historically the week after Labor Day, church attendance seems to spike as everyone is back from vacation and this is also when we formally move kids up to the next grade . . . AKA Rally Day. They meet their new teachers, and build relationships that bridge generations while learning about God's love for them.
In celebration of all of that, join us on September 8th for an after church tailgate themed lunch in the parking lot outside the gym. There will be games, food, great fellowship and hayrides for all. Similar to Sunday in the Shade, you are encouraged to bring a camping/lawn/beach chair to plop down in and talk to people as you chow down on some good grub. Menu looks like Cilantro Lime Chicken, Ribs and Hot Dogs, Mac & Cheese, Bacon Baked Beans and Veggies. Dessert will be Ice cream and Brownies
Over the next two weeks, Tony Kapusta will be in the narthex after the service if people would like to sign up to help in some way. Bounce House Bouncers and Food cleanup are the main two. In the event of inclement weather, we will move into the fellowship hall. Menu is subject to change in the event of a pig shortage. ILC Potato Salad has been challenged as the best potato salad out there...stand by for a potential potater salad tasting...
Grab your parka and snow boots! We’re heading to the Arctic Circle to learn all about the book that is filled with treasure and truth: the Bible! For kids in 1st - 5th Grade! Beginning on September 25 - October 30 on Wednesday Nights from 6:15 - 8:00. Join us for Family Dinner at 5:45. To register go to the Leidy’s Church web site or the Planning Center app. Hope to see you there!!
Our kid's choir, Grace Notes, meets Wednesday nights before Kids Quest!
We will begin practice at 5:00. If you can't make it by 5, that's ok...latecomers are still welcome, and we will finish in time for the kids to join for dinner!
Mark your calendars NOW for the Annual Christmas Craft & Gift Sale! This year on November 23rd from 9-2; our Fellowship Hall will be filled with all the sights and sounds of the holiday season! You will want to shop early for one of a kind gifts, or maybe something special for yourself! And if you are a crafter, home sales vendor, or have a mission group you want to support…see Donna Frueh for details on how you can be part of this epic event. It's never too soon to start spreading the word!
Question 44: What is baptism?
Baptism is the washing with water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; it signifies and seals our adoption into Christ, our cleansing from sin, and our commitment to belong to the Lord and to his church.
Matthew 28:19: Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. . . .
Commentary - George Herbert
As he that sees a dark and shady grove,
Stays not, but looks beyond it on the sky
So when I view my sins, mine eyes remove
More backward still, and to that water fly,
Which is above the heav’ns, whose spring and rent
Is in my dear Redeemer’s pierced side.
O blessed streams! either ye do prevent
And stop our sins from growing thick and wide,
Or else give tears to drown them, as they grow.
In you Redemption measures all my time,
And spreads the plaster equal to the crime:
You taught the book of life my name, that so,
Whatever future sins should me miscall,
Your first acquaintance might discredit all.56
Collin Hansen
When I told my pastor I wanted to become a church member, he offered a simple explanation for why I should then seek baptism: because Jesus did so. Why, though, did Jesus wade into the Jordan and ask his cousin John to lower him beneath the waters? After all, he had no sin to confess, no need to repent. I’ve always sympathized with John’s incredulous response to Jesus’s request. “I need to be baptized by you,” said John, who prepared the way for the Christ, “and do you come to me?” (Matt. 3:14). Yes, Jesus responded, “for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness” (Matt. 3:15).
In his baptism, Jesus identified with all of us who, because of sin, will someday die as a result of God’s judgment (Gen. 3:19). Water has been a sign of God’s judgment since Genesis 6–7, when God judged the wickedness of man and sent a flood to destroy all but Noah and his family. Though he never would sin, Jesus would nevertheless die at the hands of sinful men as he absorbed the wrath of God for the sinful world.
Water, of course, is also necessary for life. Before there was light, the Spirit of God hovered over the waters (Gen. 1:2). And one day when the resurrected and ascended Jesus returns to inaugurate the new heavens and the new earth, a river of life will flow from the throne of God and of the Lamb in the New Jerusalem (Rev. 22:1–2).
Any who follow him into the waves as enemies of God will emerge as brothers and sisters of the Son of God, fellow heirs of his eternal inheritance.
Baptism is a sign and seal that we have been adopted into the family of God. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have loved one another in perfect unity since before creation, before God molded Adam from the dust. At Jesus’s baptism we notice all three persons. As Jesus emerges from the water, the Spirit of God descends like a dove and rests on him (Matt 3:16). So that no one will mistake the meaning of the sign, the Father boasts from heaven, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matt. 3:17).
Every time I remember my baptism, I hear these words of blessing. Jesus was plunged beneath the waters of judgment, so that I might drink the waters of everlasting life. Because Jesus calls me brother, I can call God my Father. Because the Spirit descended on him as a dove, I have peace with God, who once regarded me as his enemy.
Once I was outside the people of God, estranged from this family due to my sin. But now I am a brother to all who have been likewise baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The church is our home, the place where, despite our disagreements and disputes, we come together to confess that we have one Lord and one faith (Eph. 4:5). To us has been given the Great Commission to follow in John’s footsteps and call others to repentance while we point them to Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). We baptize so they might always know that God loves them, that he is well pleased with them because they now belong to Christ.
1 Gus Niederhaus
2 LeRoy Gehman
8 Laurie Weiss
9 Anna Kulp, Gerald Moyer
17 Andrew Camuso
20 Caleb DiLenge
22 Dave Guntz, Patty Kendall
23 George Frueh, Drake Hager, Dave Walbrandt
26 Amelia McVaugh
27 Judy Ott, Elaine Greene
29 Bekah Kulp
4 Earl & Rose Jaunzemis
5 Brent & Marjorie Talbot
7 Steve & Debbie Bandura
12 Arlin & Donna Moyer
14 Sherman & Karen Focht
18 Andrew & Carly Camuso
19 Gary & Karen Brown, Ken & Connie Merritt
27 Tony & Kelly Wilwert
28 Rod & Yvonne Shoemaker, Francis & Judi Weiss
29 Tim & Rachel Leidy
30 Dave & Allison Walbrandt
