LIVERMORE FALLS — The Jan. 28 First Baptist Church of Livermore Falls service with Pastor Russ Thayer, Keyboards: Maggie Houlihan & Margaret Emery, the Sunday morning service began at 10:30 a.m. after Maggie played pleasing hymn tunes on the organ to set the mood for the morning. Pastor Russ opened the service as he read a few announcements of upcoming meetings and events.
Then, he led us as we sang two Praise Songs: “I Sing Praises” and “My Life Is In You, Lord”. The Pastor used Psalm 149, verses 1 – 5 as the Call To Worship. The Congregation sang, “God Leads Us Along”, followed by The Junior Sermon, “The Secret Box”. After Prayer Time, Maggie and Margaret played, “Count Your Blessings” as the Offering was collected. The Worship Team provided Special Music as they sang, “His Banner Over Me Is Love”.
Pastor Thayer introduced his Sermon as he read the story of Cain and Abel from the Book of Genesis, Chapter 4, verses 1 – 16. Adam and Eve were the parents of the two boys. Abel grew to become a shepherd and raised sheep. When his sheep began to produce firstborns, he brought to God a gift of the newly born sheep, and God was pleased that Abel made an effort to bring the best of his flock as his offering.
Cain also brought a gift of the fruits of his crops, but God was not pleased. He did not believe that Cain had offered the best of his crops. Cain was very upset that Abel’s efforts were acceptable to God and his were not. He went into the fields looking for Abel, and when he found his brother, he killed him out of spite and jealousy.
Later, when God asked him where his brother was, Cain lied to God, and said he did not know where Abel was. He said to God, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” There is more to the story, however, the lesson to be learned is this: God has given each of us talents. Whatever your talent may be, always use it to the best of your abilities.
Prove to God that you are worthy of His gift to you, use it to show God that you are giving your best to honor Him. Your best is what God expects to see, and that’s what you need to share.
The Service ended as we sang, “God, How Can We Forgive?”. After the Benediction, we sang, “Let There Be Peace On Earth”.
Announcements:
1. In February, we will collect canned carrots for the Food Cupboard.
2. On Feb. 11, we will host our annual “Soup”er Bowl Sunday. Funds collected will benefit the Food Cupboard.
3. The next Soap ‘n More Store will be on Saturday, Feb. 24 from 9 a.m. to noon. A free meal will be served from 11 a.m. – Noon.
4. Baptism classes will begin at the end of February. See Pastor Thayer if you are interested.
5. The Worship Team rehearses each Thursday from 1 until 2 p.m.
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