Happy Secretaries Day Ruthann

Central is blessed to have so many special servants but the one that is the backbone of our congregation is Ruthann Souder. Yesterday was Secretaries Day. Ruthann not only serves as our secretary but she also is a prayer warrior, counselor, encourager and true servant.

Thank you Ruthann for the love you have for the Central Body and the love you have for God. It shines brightly everyday!
We love you.

A Special Woman

When I met her 28 years ago, I believe I was picking up her Volkswagen Bug with my friend Tim Walton and hiding it in the church parking lot after a devotional.

She has been a special person ever since.

I knew there was a reason why my dad retired from the Navy, and moved our family from San Diego to Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. I thought I had gone to the end of the world! But it was because God had a special woman there that I would meet, fall in love with and begin a life time journey together.

Her birthday is today. She is more beautiful today then when we met in 1977. She constantly teaches me lessons about life; about ways we need to treat others, about generosity, thoughtfulness, contentment, her compassion towards others and her love for God.

Thank you dad for moving us away from “Gods Magnificent Beauty of San Diego” to give me the “Beauty of My Life”.

Happy Birthday Debbie! I Love you!

Your Life On Display

How would you like everyone to know everything about you? How much you make? Your entire personal life always in the limelight? Anything you say could be placed in a newspaper?

That's me. My entire life is on public display every minute of every day as a school superintendent. Each person in my community has an opinion of me. Good or bad.

A Christian's life is always on display also. God sees everything. Not just the community, but God Almighty himself. He also knows my heart. That’s what is troubling at times. He knows those thoughts of mine that sometimes I don't want anyone knowing about. He knows each mess I’ve made…………

I love the lyrics to the following song:

For All You've Done
By Clint Lagerberg

Oh cleanser of the mess I've made
Upon the hill our places trade
Stretched on a cross Your body crushed
By human hands You formed from dust

Chorus
How wonderful Your mercy is
How awesome are Your ways
I come, I come
To worship You
For all You've done

Oh cleanser of the mess I've made
Your boundless love for me portrayed
With patience for my learning curve
By holding back what I deserve

Chorus

Oh cleanser of the mess I've made
With everything at Your feet laid
I watch as all my cares erode
And from my soul these words explode

Chorus

Send Your Rain

Thank you for the rain today!

Send Your Rain(Kelly Carpenter)

Send Your rain oh Lord
Send Your rain oh Lord
Send Your rain to your people

Send Your rain oh Lord
Send Your rain oh Lord
Send Your rain bring Your Kingdom

Chorus:
Soften our hearts and pour out Your Spirit
Fill us anew, let Your rain come
Soften our hearts and pour out Your Spirit
Fill us anew, let Your rain come

May Your kingdom come
And Your will be done
On the earth as it is in heaven
May Your kingdom come
And Your will be done On the earth,
bring Your kingdom

Mentoring (Part 2)

The first martyr in the history of the Lord’s church was Stephen, a faithful preacher. The death of this faithful man is recorded more fully than the death of anyone else in the New Testament except that of Jesus.

Here is a man dying for the cause of Christ, dying by the hands of wicked men, but dying in grace and dying graciously for the glory of God. Why did Luke identify just one of Stephen's murderers?

Those who stoned Stephen "laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul." I wonder if Saul was the man who examined Stephen and had been baffled by his speech when he stood before the Sanhedrin (Acts 6:8-10)?

Here is the best part of the story of Stephen and Saul. Both of them are in glory now. One cannot help wondering how Saul felt when Stephen's smile met him at the throne! What a joyous meeting they must have had. Stephen and Saul embracing one another! But in Acts the two men are far apart. They had nothing in common. Stephen was about to die. Saul was holding the clothes of those who stoned him. Saul was proud and self-righteous. He was proud of his heritage, his learning, his works, his religious position, and his great reputation. Stephen was a broken, humbled sinner, saved by the grace of God, whose only hope was in Christ. Saul was wrapped up in himself. Stephen was wrapped up in Christ.

With all of these differences, I believe Stephen became a lasting impression on Saul. Stephen became a mentor of Saul’s even after his death. The cause of Christ, his church, his truth, and his glory were of greater value to Stephen than life itself. Stephen was gracious to the end, ever truthful, gentle, forgiving, and self-sacrificing. These were attributes and beliefs that Saul had, when he was converted, that became his life ministry.

Stephen had a significant influence on Saul (Paul) the rest of his life. We can be an influence as well. We can be a mentor to many individuals that we come in contact with each day. Our kids need positive role models. New Christians need teaching and training as well. Mentoring takes time and commitment. I appreciate the time and commitment that Stephen gave. He gave his life because he believed in the ultimate giver of life, Jesus!

Thanks Guys!

I am very fortunate to work with three extremely talented building administrators. They are good people. Honest. Sincere. Hard working (my favorite attribute, a 24-7 person). High morals. Ethical. Loves kids. Admits mistakes. Church going.

My three building principals are the best in the world. I wouldn’t trade any of them. We can go in a room and disagree and argue points back and forth but when we leave the room, we’re unified and respect and appreciate one another.

One item we enjoy discussing is religion. We all have different religious backgrounds but we all have two common bonds, we love God and we love people. We discuss on a weekly basis our worship services as well as our Bible class times, but many times we talk about the people we worship with.

I love the chance to talk about Central. The many gifted people that love serving God and others on a daily basis. I love describing the servant hearts and attitudes that make up the body. It's my prayer that everyone would have the special blessing that I have.

A great work environment where God can be discussed. If you ask any of my administrators, prayer is a must for all of us to get through the battles and struggles that we have on a daily basis. It sure doesn't hurt to pray for each other when we know a situation has to be taken care of that is very delicate and complex.

Prayer in school? Been going on since day one.

I am fortunate to work with good people who have a heart to minister to hurting kids and families on a regular basis.

The Unity Principle

"The union of Christians is the will of God, the prayer of Jesus, and the means of bringing the world to believe in Jesus, therefore it must be right. That man is then engaged in a righteous work, who labors to promote this union, by removing every obstacle to it; ... But the man who acts a contrary part must be wrong, and engaged in a work in opposition to the will of God, the prayer of Jesus, and the salvation of the world"

(Barton W. Stone, 1872)

Pure Was The Mind of Christ

I love the words to the old hymn that is one of my all time favorites, “Where He Leads I’ll Follow.” The words are powerful: “pure was the mind of Christ, sinless I see, He the great example is and pattern for me”. Every time I sing these words, “pure was the mind of Christ” I never really comprehend that His mind was pure. So often we struggle with the filth that comes into our hearts and minds from a world that is not pure or holy that we forget that our Savior did overcome, and with His help, guidance, and encouragement, we can overcome, live, grow and mature in Christ. He was the great example and pattern for me. Because of that, I want to give him my very best daily. I want to follow Jesus Every Day!

Unity is a Blessing

Ephesians 4:2-16
2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit--just as you were called to one hope when you were called-- 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

The Easter Story

The Story of Easter
As Told in the Gospel of Luke
Luke 23:50-24:53 (KJV)

And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counselor; and he was a good man, and a just: (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.

This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid. And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on.

And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid. And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment.

Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.

And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.

And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments:

And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.

And they remembered his words, and returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest.

It was Mary Magdalene and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles. And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not. Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.

And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. And they talked together of all these things which had happened.

And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?

And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?

And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.

Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre; And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive. And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not.

Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further. But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them.

And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight. And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?

And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them, saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon. And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in breaking of bread.

And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.
And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.

And when he had thus spoken, he showed them his hands and his feet. And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat?
And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb. And he took it, and did eat before them.

And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.

Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.

And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.

And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.
Amen.

Easter

Easter. A special day. A day of hope. A day of power. A day of resurrection. A day of life. A day of surprises. This Sunday our worship will center on Luke 23: 26-49. It was a day of surprises for those that were present when Jesus died.

Order of Worship for Easter Sunday, April 16
"A Day of Surprises"
Luke 23: 26-49

Welcome: Roger Hamm

Worship Leader: David Carriger

Doxology

Glorify Thy Name

Hosanna

Prayer of Praise: David Carriger

Introduction: Jerry Myers

Lamb of God

#1 Jesus Death was A Day of Surprises: Rex Allen

Nailed to the Cross

#2 Jesus Death Was A Day of Stupidity: Gary Souder

Ten Thousand Angels

#3 Jesus Death Was A Day of Salvation: Roger Hamm

Communion

Contribution

Closing Remarks/Invitation: Bill Carriger

Invitation Song: I Know That My Redeemer Lives

Announcements: Roger Hamm

He Arose

Closing Prayer: Roger Hamm

LTC

Off to Kansas City for another Leadership Training for Christ (LTC). Always enjoyable watching our young people display their talents in a variety of spiritual activities.

Be in prayer for our young people and sponsors as they travel to Kansas City.

Mentoring (Part 1)

Interviewing students at universities has been one of the benefits of my position as a school administrator. They are young, have fresh new ideas, energetic, they love kids, will work 18 hour days, and they love education. When I interview a prospective teacher candidate, they “pump” me up. They energize me. They encourage me. It shows me that there are still individuals in our society that wish to serve and work in helping educate the youth of America.

One of the trends the past five years in education is mentoring. Mentoring has always been a part of the work place. Mentoring individuals to become even better in business and the work place have often resulted in greater dividends and benefits for companies.

It has also benefited schools. When new teachers are placed with experienced teachers, positive results usually follow. New teachers are given vital survival skills as well as a vast array of knowledge about past experiences, which might have resulted in positive and negative teaching aspects in their classroom. Mentoring also makes the experienced teacher feel needed, revitalized and important. They are able to share their life’s successes with someone new entering the profession.

In the Church, mentoring is such an important aspect of the Christian life. I had some excellent mentors in my younger years. My mom was a great mentor of mine that encouraged me in my Christian life. My youth ministers and elders in the church that took us young people and taught us the importance of service and worship and living Godly lives.

Today I still have mentors. Those individuals that I call on a regular basis to dig deep into their knowledge that they have experienced over many decades of their Christian walk. I appreciate their encouragement but also appreciate their correction from to time as I grow in Gods Word.

Each of us need mentors. We need to be actively involved in the lives of each other. Encouraging and teaching thorough the experiences we have encountered.

Scripture is full of mentoring events and situations.
My next blog will describe some of those mentoring experiences.

Character Assassination

Ever been accused of something you didn’t do? Ever been called out for something that you know is completely untrue. We live in a world of character assassination today. Whatever people think or believe, it must be right. And what’s worse, decisions are made on this type of thinking all the time.

Jesus experienced the same type of situations and individual mindsets himself. He was accused, laughed at, tormented, spat upon, beat and finally crucified just because He was who He said He was. People didn’t want to believe that. They were looking for what they thought and believed in, not a simple carpenter born in a manger in Bethlehem who proclaimed He was the Son of God.

Character assassination hurts deep. It tears our hearts. Many times we just want to go away and forget the names or accusations. Many times we decide to fight and stand up for what the truth really is.

Remember what Jesus said in Matthew 5:44:
"But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you”.

Not easy to do, but you become better for it.

If you do pray for those that persecute you, you will be able to say what Paul said in Romans 5:3-5: And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Dear God:
Help me today to forgive those that wrong me. Help me not to accuse others, slander others and talk badly of anyone. I have enough problems and struggles of my own that I need not tear others down. I want to live for you. I want to be like your Son. Help me do that today.
In Jesus Name,
Amen.

Yes, Jesus Did Walk On the Water!

Jesus Could Have Walked on Ice, Scientist Says
Sara GoudarziLiveScience Staff WriterLiveScience.com
Tue Apr 4, 2006

Rare conditions could have conspired to create hard-to-see ice on the Sea of Galilee that a person could have walked on back when Jesus is said to have walked on water, a scientist said today.

The study, which examines a combination of favorable water and environmental conditions, proposes that Jesus could have walked on an isolated patch of floating ice on what is now known as Lake Kinneret in northern Israel.

Looking at temperature records of the Mediterranean Sea surface and using analytical ice and statistical models, scientists considered a small section of the cold freshwater surface of the lake. The area studied, about 10,000 square feet, was near salty springs that empty into it.
The results suggest temperatures dropped to 25 degrees Fahrenheit (-4 degrees Celsius) during one of the two cold periods 2,500 –1,500 years ago for up to two days, the same decades during which Jesus lived.

With such conditions, a floating patch of ice could develop above the plumes resulting from the salty springs along the lake's western shore in Tabgha. Tabgha is the town where many archeological findings related to Jesus have been found.

"We simply explain that unique freezing processes probably happened in that region only a handful of times during the last 12,000 years," said Doron Nof, a Florida State University Professor of Oceanography. "We leave to others the question of whether or not our research explains the biblical account."

Nof figures that in the last 120 centuries, the odds of such conditions on the low latitude Lake Kinneret are most likely 1-in-1,000. But during the time period when Jesus lived, such “spring ice” may have formed once every 30 to 60 years.

Such floating ice in the unfrozen waters of the lake would be hard to spot, especially if rain had smoothed its surface.

"In today's climate, the chance of springs ice forming in northern Israel is effectively zero, or about once in more than 10,000 years," Nof said.

The findings are detailed in the April 2006 Journal of Paleolimnology.

Unbelievable!

Why do scientists have to theorize everything? Why don't they have faith in God's Word? Why didn't the Pharisees and Sadducees believe in the One that walked among them came from God Almighty? Why do we lack faith at times?

God Is In Control

A good friend of mine has experienced a very difficult week professionally. I have felt sorry for him. I hope I was able to cheer him up a little.

We all have those weeks where we ask "where is God when I need him?"

The answer is right beside us like He always is. The problem is the complexity of our daily endeavors which flaw our true vision of the One who can truly be the answer to our problems.

Twila Paris wrote a song called God Is In Control. Many times I think about the words of the chorus in my difficult daily struggles:

We believe that His children will not be forsaken
God is in control
We will choose to remember and never be shaken
There is no power above or beside Him, we know
God is in control, oh God is in control

Psalm 25

To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul;
In you I trust, O my God. Do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me.

No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame, but they will be put to shame who are treacherous without excuse.

Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.

A Great Coach and Godly Man

If you have never met this man or heard him speak you have really missed out. I have been blessed to hear him speak on two occasions and met him once when I was a junior college basketball coach.

Here is an article about a very great and humble man.

TO AN ERA SO QUICKLY FORGOTTEN - TO OUR DETRIMENT

From a Rick Reilly Sports Illustrated Column

On the 21st of the month, the best man I know will do what he always does on the 21st of the month. He'll sit down and pen a love letter to his best girl. He'll say how much he misses her and loves her and can't wait to see her again. Then he'll fold it once, slide it in a little envelope and walk into his bedroom. He'll go to the stack of love letters sitting there on her pillow, untie the yellow ribbon, place the new one on top and tie the ribbon again. The stack will be 180 letters high then, because the 21st will be 15 years to the day since Nellie, his beloved wife of 53 years, died. In her memory, he sleeps only on his half of the bed, only on his pillow, only on top of the sheets, never between; with just the old bedspread they shared to keep him warm. There's never been a finer man in American sports than John Wooden, or a finer coach.

He won 10 NCAA basketball championships at UCLA, the last in 1975. Nobody has ever come within six of him. He won 88 straight games between January 30, 1971, and January 17, 1974. Nobody has come within 42 since.

So, sometimes, when the Basketball Madness gets to be too much-too many players trying to make Sports Center, too few players trying to make assists, too few coaches willing to be mentors, too many freshmen with out-of-wedlock kids, too few freshmen who will stay in school long enough to become men-I like to go see Coach Wooden. I visit him in his little condo in Encino, 20 minutes northwest of Los Angeles, and hear him say things like "Gracious sakes alive!" and tell stories about teaching "Lewis" the hook shot. Lewis Alcindor, that is ... who became Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

There has never been another coach like Wooden, quiet as an April snow and square as a game of checkers; loyal to one woman, one school, one way; walking around campus in his sensible shoes and Jimmy Stewart morals.

He'd spend a half hour the first day of practice teaching his men how to put on a sock. "Wrinkles can lead to blisters," he'd warn. These huge players would sneak looks at one another and roll their eyes. Eventually, they'd do it right. "Good," he'd say. "And now for the other foot."

Of the 180 players who played for him, Wooden knows the whereabouts of 172. Of course, it's not hard when most of them call, checking on his health, secretly hoping to hear some of his simple life lessons so that they can write them on the lunch bags of their kids, who will roll their eyes.

"Discipline yourself, and others won't need to," Coach would say. "Never lie, never cheat, never steal," and "Earn the right to be proud and confident."

If you played for him, you played by his rules: Never score without acknowledging a teammate. One word of profanity and you're done for the day. Treat your opponent with respect. He believed in hopelessly out-of-date stuff that never did anything but win championships. No dribbling behind the back or through the legs."There's no need," he'd say.

No UCLA basketball number was retired under his watch. "What about the fellows who wore that number before? Didn't they contribute to the team? he'd say.

No long hair, no facial hair. "They take too long to dry, and you could catch cold leaving the gym," he'd say. That one drove his players bonkers. One day, All-America center Bill Walton showed up with a full beard.

"It's my right," he insisted. Wooden asked if he believed that strongly. Walton said he did. "That's good, Bill," Coach said. "I admire people who have strong beliefs and stick by them, I really do. We're going to miss you." Walton shaved it right then and there. Now Walton calls once a week to tell Coach he loves him.

It's always too soon when you have to leave the condo and go back out into the real world, where the rules are so much grayer and the teams so much worse. As Wooden shows you to the door, you take one last look around. The framed report cards of his great-grandkids, the boxes of jellybeans peeking out from under the favorite wooden chair, the dozens of pictures of Nellie.

He's in his 90's now. You think a little more hunched over than last time. Steps a little smaller. You hope it's not the last time you see him. He smiles.

"I'm not afraid to die," he says. "Death is my only chance to be with her again."

Problem is ... we still need him here.

"There is only one kind of a life that truly wins, and that is the one that places faith in the hands of the Savior. Until that is done, we are on an aimless course that runs in circles and goes nowhere. Material possessions, winning scores, and great reputations are meaningless in the eyes of the Lord, because He knows what we really are and that is all that matters."
John Wooden

CNN

Here is the discussion with Grace and Ruble Shelly on CNN:

GRACE: Is the Church of Christ a cult? Is it cult-like? Did that play into this murder in any way? With us, Dr. Ruble Shelly, professor of philosophy and religion at Rochester College. He`s a Church of Christ minister. He knows the Winkler family. Let`s take a look. Single leader, cult-like qualities, trying to isolate members, members happy and enthusiastic -- I don`t think that`s a bad thing -- experimental rather than logical, hide what they teach, say they`re the only true group. Dr. Shelly, response?

DR. RUBLE SHELLY, CHURCH OF CHRIST, PROFESSOR OF PSYCHOLOGY: It certainly doesn`t fit the criteria you just gave. We certainly have never created those charismatic personalities. We`re a network of independent, local churches. And your guests so far, I`m the only one who has to plead guilty to being a member of the Church of Christ. And Churches of Christ certainly are not cultic in any of that classic sense. We`re a conservative, religious group in the Christian tradition. You`d ask one of our members, and we`d say we jump right off the pages of the New Testament. Historically, we come out of what`s called the American Restoration movement, but the cultic label -- I can`t imagine anyone sticking that label.

GRACE: Dr. Shelly, what is the role of women in the Church of Christ?

SHELLY: Well, we believe that God created the human race male and female in his image and that Paul said there is no male or female in Christ. There are some male leadership options, in terms of elders of churches, and most preaching ministries that are reserved to males, but that`s not a cultic fact.

GRACE: Why? Why?

SHELLY: Well, that`s because of a biblical interpretation issue that Southern Baptists and many other groups share in common with Churches of Christ about male leadership in local churches. Churches of Christ are a conservative religious group.

GRACE: OK, wait, wait, wait. Dr. Shelly, no offense, by why, why only male leadership? Does anybody remember Mary Magdalene, ding ding?

SHELLY: Well, Mary Magdalene was not an apostle. All of the apostles were, in fact...

GRACE: Well, Judas was, and that certainly isn`t saying very much.

SHELLY: Well, we don`t want to quarrel with gender issues, with regard to salvation. And probably, I`m more broad-minded and a bit more liberal in terms of things that I would affirm that women have a right to do in church leadership than some of the people in our churches, but generally...

GRACE: OK. Dr. Shelly, let me move on, because I agree with you.

SHELLY: No, you asked the question as to where it came from.

GRACE: Yes, and I`d love an answer.

SHELLY: First, Timothy 2:11 and 2:12 talks about male leadership in churches. And that text has a great deal hung on it by religious conservatives to say that fathers in homes and elders in churches as male leadership, protective leadership, not abusive leadership.

GRACE: Dr. Shelly, do members of the Church of Christ church believe that that is the only way to heaven?

SHELLY: No. Churches of Christ began in an historical movement whose slogan was, "Christians only, not the only Christians"...(CROSSTALK)GRACE: No, no, no, wait, wait, wait, wait, don`t need a history lesson, as much as I appreciate it. We`re only an hour long. Do you believe that Jews and Muslims...

SHELLY: Well, you asked the question. The answer is no, because our slogan is...

GRACE: ... will also go to heaven?

SHELLY: Christians only, not the only Christians. We don`t believe we`re the only Christians or the only ones going to heaven. GRACE: OK, now, you know...

SHELLY: There may be individuals who do.

GRACE: You have got a great sense of career as a lawyer.

SHELLY: Churches of Christ are a loose network of independent churches. And I suspect you could find someone who believes most anything on your scale.

GRACE: Reverend, yes, no, do you believes that Jews or Muslims can go to heaven?

SHELLY: I believe that Jews and Muslims are to be shared the gospel of Christ. Now, that`s a much larger issue.

GRACE: Gotcha, OK. All right. I get it.

SHELLY: I do believe that Jesus is the only path to heaven, of course. Conservative Christians believe that.

Wind, Tornado, Dark, Fire

What a day I had yesterday! After leaving Pittsburg State University where I was interviewing teacher candidates I started my long drive to Wichita for teacher interview day today.

The wind was terrible but the tornado was even worse. Outside of Independence I saw the twister that hit that city as well as was in the path of the terrible storm. It was the worst driving conditions I have ever been in. It rained about 4 inches in about 15 minutes.

After finally driving out of it, I went to a rest area on top of a hill off highway 400 and saw a beautiful rainbow on the back side of the storm.

I appreciated that sight, believe me!

When I got to Wichita, all of the east side was without electricity because of the storm they had earlier in the day. Ever try checking into a motel that has no electricity? No computers, door lock key cards, on-line reservations……and the best part, the young man at the front desk was working his first night by himself. Felt sorry for that young guy! Also right outside my motel the grass was on fire from a downed power pole. It was certainly an interesting day.

But God, thank you for the rainbow and the protection you gave me and several across Kansas yesterday. I’m looking forward to a quieter weekend!

Christian Colleges?

I am proud to be a graduate of one of our Christian Colleges. When I graduated from York College I felt like I received an excellent Christian education, as well as was mentored by some outstanding faculty and staff during my years at York. I was so impressed with York that I returned as a teacher and coach for two additional years and still support the school in several ways.

I have supported Christian education and will continue to encourage our young people to look at what our Christian Universities can offer for them academically as well as in ministry opportunities.

Lately I have become concerned with the direction and decisions being made at some of our sister institutions.

As an educator, I know we need to allow our students room for growth and accessibility of differing views and opinions but we must uphold the values and Biblical principles that our institutions were built upon.

We, as Christians, need to take an active part in making sure that our Christian Colleges and Universities not take the easy road of worldly thought and philosophy in trying to “make everyone feel good and happy”. Sometimes university and college presidents need not look at the dollar or who is going to donate as the deciding factor but look at God’s Word as the final answer.

It is sad that 95% of members of the Church have no idea what is being taught on our Christian University campuses. Who is teaching courses, and what is allowing to be introduced to our students? Some of our Christian universities have gone away from the traditions that they were founded upon and have become more or less state university schools.

If you are a graduate of one of our Christian colleges or you are examining which school your child or grandchild might attend, I encourage you to examine and question the administrators of our universities and make sure they are still using God’s Word as the measuring device for their institution.

Spring Break

Spring Break should of been called Winter Break. Snow and cool weather ocurred all over the mid-west this past week. Craig had a great time in New York City visiting Jeff and Santhi. Thanks guys for giving the grand tour to our little boy!

Deb and I traveled to St. Louis to look over summer golf and biking opportunities.

On Thursday of last week, we left St. Louis and drove into Illinois. We drove along the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. We decided to take a couple of ferry boats to cross the rivers around an area that looked like the rolling hills of the Smokey Mountains. Beautiful place.

Wherever it might be, New York City, St. Louis, the countryside of Western Illinois, Julian, California - you see God in the wonderful creation and in the people you encounter.

When I sing the Days of Creation with the 2-3 year olds on Wednesday nights, it means a liitle more to me after experiencing the beautiful aspects of Gods handiwork.

Sweet Aroma

One of my favorite places to visit is a small town named Julian in the mountains east of San Diego, California.

When I was a kid, mom and dad would take us to the mountains during the winter for hot apple cider, great food and a chance to play in the snow (today I hate snow).

There are many things I remember about our trips to Julian but the thing that stands out the most was the smell. Every time we stopped at that old country store for the hot apple cider I loved the smell of that old wood burning stove. The smell was great. The heat felt great, but it was the smell that has always stuck with me.

In 1 Corinthians 2:15, “we are to God the aroma of Christ”. We are to be that sweet aroma in our praise to our Heavenly Father. The sacrifice that we bring to God in our worship should be a sweet, sweet fragrance.

Sweet adoration
Flows from your children
Glory and honor
And praise are a part of our constant devotion
Love set in motion
For the divine One
Who reigns in our hearts.

The Love of God

During our evening worship Mike led us in a beautiful old hymn that I still love to sing today, The Love of God.

The song was written by Fred­er­ick M. Leh­man. He wrote this song in 1917 in Pas­a­de­na, Cal­i­fornia, and it was pub­lished in Songs That Are Dif­fer­ent, Vol­ume 2, 1919. The lyr­ics are based on the Jew­ish poem Had­da­mut, writ­ten in Ara­ma­ic in 1050 by Meir Ben Isaac Ne­hor­ai, a can­tor in Worms, Ger­ma­ny; they have been trans­lat­ed in­to at least 18 lang­uages. His daughter arranged the song.

THE LOVE OF GOD
Words & music: F. M. Lehmen, 1917; arr: Claudia L. Mays

The love of God is greater far
Than tongue or pen can ever tell;
It goes beyond the highest star,
And reaches to the lowest hell;
The guilty pair, bowed down with care,
God gave His Son to win;
His erring child He reconciled,
And pardoned from his sin.

O love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure
The saints' and angels' song.

When years of time shall pass away,
And earthly thrones and kingdoms fall,
When men, who here refuse to pray,
On rocks and hills and mountains call,
God's love so sure, shall still endure,
All measureless and strong;
Redeeming grace to Adam's race;
The saints' and angels' song.

O love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure
The saints' and angels' song.

Could we with ink the ocean fill,
And were the skies of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill,
And every man a scribe by trade,
To write the love of God above,
Would drain the ocean dry.
Nor could the scroll contain the whole,
Though stretched from sky to sky.

O love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure
The saints' and angels' song.

Be Still And Know That I Am God

Ever long for quiet solitude? The best vacation our family ever had was a week at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, about 8 years ago. For an entire 5 days I layed out on the sandy beach and did absolutely nothing. Just listened to God’s wonderful creation as my eyes were shut and the sun shining down. How relaxing. We need times of quiet. Times of peace. Times of renewal.

This week its renewal time. Spring Break. Debbie and I are heading to a special place to witness and enjoy God's Creation. After placing Craig on an airplane to New York City to see Santhi and Jeff we head for a short period of peace and renewal.

“How shall we really hear, O Lord? So many foolish things to fill our ear...Lead us to prayerful quiet...Cover us in a precious silence...Let solitude come and be our companion...Give us a stillness as the desert where You spent, sometimes, the whole night in prayer...let us come, even without images if that is possible for us...let us revel in the quietude...Let us bow down with all the angels in silence and in awe..."How majestic is Thy name in all creation."

In Jesus Name,
Amen.
(Prayer from Don Brennon)

What's Your Legacy?

This is a story that was written by one of Deb’s students last week. It brought tears to both of us. This was re-printed with the students permission:

My father was about 5’11” he was a larger guy. My father was born in 1959, both of my dad’s parents were Native American, so that made him 100% Indian. My grandfather was, I think, 100% Turtle Mountain Band of the Chippewa Indian from South Dakota. My father, was one of eleven children. My father, was always told if you are not home on time to eat, you will not eat. My dad was always telling me about when he was younger and what he and his friends would do for fun. I remember when my dad and I went outside at night and he showed me how an eclipse was made.

My dad was one of the best role models I have ever had because he was always there for my mom, sister and me. My father was always willing to give his time to anyone so that they could have fun and feel good, like there was someone out there that was there for them when they needed a friend. He was always working so that my sister and I could have all the things that he didn’t have when he was a kid. My father spent a little bit of his time at the movies, but he favored talking to my sister and I about the Bible.

My father’s mother died when I was almost too young to remember. The only thing I can remember about my grandmother is that she died of cancer when I think I was about five years old, as for my grandfather he died when I was about seven. My father was always volunteering at the school where my sister and I were enrolled, and he also participated in the P.T.A. (Parent Teacher Association) at our school. My father was always trying to find time to help others. I remember one time, my mother told me that my dad had gotten two tickets because he was out in the road telling people that there were cops around the curve and they are giving tickets out to people who were trying to pass on the median because there was a stalled car on the side of the road. He got two tickets because he passed on the median, and the second ticket was for being out in the road and trying to warn people about cops.

My father, was always reading the Bible and watching movies in his free time. My father was always preaching to anyone and everyone who would listen to him. I remember he would always go out walking at later hours of the day with his Bible in his hand, he found this homeless younger man and preached to him constantly about the Lord. This young man would come over to talk to my dad and listen to my father preach to him and he would listen to every word of it. My father was very kind to everyone he came in contact with in his lifetime. One of the most valuable things I got, from the best role model I have ever had, was at the time the stupidest thing I had ever received, it was a dictionary. My father laughed when I had opened it up and said that this would be the most valuable thing I ever give you.

My father was home from work and I had been home from the bike track that my friend and I had gone to that day. Mother was in her room folding clothes and my sister and I were washing the dishes after we had eaten. My sister and I were arguing about something, I can’t remember what it was, but my dad yelled at my sister and I, and then my father left to go to the mall and pay some bills. It was early the next morning when my three uncles were in the front room and told me to sit down in the chair next to them. When I sat down, they told me that my father had been murdered in the bathroom stall at the mall.

This story happens to be all that is left of my best role model that I ever had.

Sunday Worship

Order of Worship
Sunday, March 19, 2006

Announcements/Welcome

Scripture: Psalm 100

103 He Has Made Me Glad
96 I Stand in Awe
60 He is Exalted

Prayer

Scripture: John 3:14-17

454 Rock of Ages (VERSE 1 ONLY)
129 Amazing Grace (VERSE 1 ONLY)
325 Boundless Love (REFRAIN ONLY 1 and 3)
332 Lead Me to Calvary (VERSE 1 ONLY)

Communion

Contribution

2x2 Class Dismissed

Scripture: John 13:12-17

694 Make Me A Servant
693 Give Me the Heart of A Servant
694 Make Me A Servant

Message: Evan Burdan

Invitation: 792 My Eyes Are Dry (SING TWICE)

Announcements

Closing Song: That’s Why We Praise Him
Closing Prayer

Rats, Running and the Church

In the latest addition of Healthday News, it discusses how many runners contended that jogging alone offers the opportunity to enjoy nature or appreciate an urban landscape, while giving the brain and the body a beneficial workout.

But new research with rats suggests that running solo might not offer the perceived benefits and, in fact, may actually be bad for runners when combined with social isolation.

The scientists behind the study report that mice forced to live and run by themselves have less brain cell growth than those that get to run with other rats. The implications for humans aren't clear. That’s good, because I have been doing this for years!

But the interesting point to this study is the fact that in rats they show brain growth when they get to run with other rats. Rat companionship!

Humans need companionship also. As a church we grow when we work together and look out for the needs of each other.

Any organization, with a lot of individuals that don’t come together as a team or unit, won’t grow, win or prosper.

I am so thankful that I belong to a body of believers that long for companionship and the concept of working together to further Christ mission.

Work Ethic

I am on a "soap box" when it comes to our young people and the education system. The educational system in Kansas has changed drastically during the past ten years. More accountability, more rigorous academic standards, and now, with No Child Left Behind, increased accountability at the national level.

One of the exit outcomes of our school system is a simple outcome but one that I feel has been lost by the new generation. Work ethic.

Work ethic is a set of values based on the moral virtues of hard work and diligence. A work ethic may include being reliable, having initiative or maintaining social skills.

Talking about work ethic is easy, actually putting it into practice is difficult.

Growing up I had some great examples of individuals that had a positive work ethic. My dad and my grandfather were extremely hardworking individuals. Working was expected. Working hard and long hours was expected.

Today, I am witnessing young people who expect a great paying job, but not having to do much on the job. I see those without initiative. I see those being fired because they are continually late to work. I see poor social and people skills. What has happened?

It's easy today to quit. Easy to say "I don't have to do it." We live in a "Burger King" society. Have it your way! My way is right, so don't tell me what to do.

The dropout rate is increasing. Marriages are deteriorating. Divorce is at an all-time high. Churches are losing members. What has happened?

I believe we will see a real change in the schools, society and even in the church when moms and dads realize what's truly important in life.

It's not about me. It's about my example to my kids, my spouse, my boss and my co-workers. Its doing more than expected at work. It's doing more for your spouse than whats expected. It's sacrificing for your family so maybe debt doesn't destroy a marriage. It's volunteering at church to help a family or individual who is in need.

Work ethic must be practiced. We must have an appreciation for hard work. We must have an appreciation for the jobs and opportunities that God has blessed us with. We must respect authority and be sensitive to those that we work with.

1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody."

The Heart of Worship

More songs are being written today about what worship needs to be all about, God not ME!

The Heart of Worship
By Matt Redman

When the music fades
All is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring
Something that's of worth
That will bless Your heart
I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart

I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
When it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus

King of endless worth
No one could express
How much You deserve
Though I'm weak and poor
All I have is Yours
Every single breath
I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart

I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus

I'm coming back to the heart of worship,
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
And it's all about You,It's all about You, Jesus

The Father's Love

In my graduate studies several years ago, I remember a case study that I still think about as an educator today.

In the 1940's, the psychologist, Rene Spitz, studied human babies isolated from their mothers. These were the infants of women too poor to care for their children, infants who had been placed permanently in a foundling home. There, the children were kept in what Spitz called "solitary confinement," placed in cribs with sheets hung from the sides so that the only thing the babies could see was the ceiling. Nurses seldom looked in on them more than a few times a day. And even when feeding time came, the babies were left alone with just the companionship of a bottle. Hygiene in the homes was impeccable. But without being held, loved, and woven into the fabric of a social web, the resistance of these babies was lowered. 34 out of 91 died. In other foundling homes, the death rate was even higher. In some, it climbed to a devastating 90%. A host of other studies have shown the same thing. Babies can be given food, shelter, warmth and hygiene. But if they are not held and stroked, they have an abnormal tendency to die.

How about us?

We were the same way. Helpless, no chance of survival until God gave us a second chance for life.

Because of that special gift, He holds us; He shelters us; He cares for us; He provides everything for us.

How sad many don’t accept this gift.

Deep Calls to Deep

In 2001, Dr. Randy Gill (one of my favorite song writers in the Church of Christ) wrote a song that has become one of my favorite Lament’s from the Psalms. The song is called “Deep Calls to Deep”.

From the depths of my soul I cry out
From the depths of my soul I cry out
Lord, can you hear me?
Have mercy, O God
From the depths of my soul I cry out

In the midst of the sea I cry out
In the midst of the sea I cry out
Save me the water
Is over my head
In the midst of the sea I cry out

There is a time to mourn
There is a time to weep
There is a time for sorrow
When deep calls to deep

In the moments of grief I cry out
In the moments of grief I cry out
Have you forgotten me?
Where are you Lord?
In the moments of grief I cry out

From the depths of my soul I cry out
From the depths of my soul I cry out
Still I will praise You, Lord
Still I will praise You, Lord.

The words from “Deep Calls to Deep” (Psalm 42) are ones that can be sung by anyone of us at almost any period of our lives. Even though life is rough at times, I will still praise my Lord! These words give me hope and comfort from time to time.

March Madness

March Madness is about to begin.

I don’t have much of an opportunity to watch TV because of evening meetings and activities but I really enjoy a Saturday during March watching the NCAA Basketball Tournament.

Selection Sunday is coming up on March 12. 5:00 p.m. CST. Fans, Teams and Coaches will be glued to the TV to hear if their team makes the NCAA field of 64. It will be a day of joy for some, and for others and it will be a day of heartbreak for many schools that have had good years but will be left out of the tournament.

The NCAA Basketball Tournament is a billion dollar venture.

Many people fill out those brackets trying to guess who might make the Final 4 and then who will become the National Champion.

Some get so engrossed into it, they gamble life savings and bet on the contests. Many people lose everything they have because they feel they know who is going to be crowned National Champion.

Our country really does get wrapped up in this sporting event.

March Madness is great if we keep it in perspective. But there is something that is even greater to long for than a basketball tournament.

“O for A Home With God, A Place in His Courts to Rest”. I love that song. I love the lyrics. I love the God who blessed us so greatly by sending His Son to the earth so we could live with Him in forever. To me that is better than any sporting event, any vacation spot, any new car, new house, new job. A relationship and an eternal home with God should be our number one goal as a Christian.


1 John 2:15-17

"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever"

We need to press toward the goal that we should have in life:

Phil. 3:12-14

"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus"

Famous Last Words

There are many great curtain call lines, fade-outs, and final words of dialogue in movie history - the last lingering words heard before the title “The End.” In quite a few cases, the memorable final lines are also some of the greatest lines in film history. They often reveal a vital truth about the film, cap off a comedy with a punchline, or help to define what the film was all about in just a few words. The last phrases or words often help to set a mood or tone as the film concludes, or they can be great one-liners.

One of my favorites came from the “Shawshank Redemption” in 1994:

“I find I am so excited I can barely sit still or hold a thought in my head. I think it's the excitement only a free man can feel, a free man at the start of a long journey whose conclusion is uncertain. I hope I can make it across the border. I hope to see my friend and shake his hand. I hope the Pacific is as blue as it has been in my dreams. I hope.”

The final words of the film, describes “Red’s” hope and excitement about finally reaching that destination that he longed for.

Every time I hear that line I think about my final destination. The excitement, the hope that I have.

Testify To Love

Ever have a song on your mind and it just wouldn’t go away. I have been thinking about the lyrics to Testify To Love recently. A great reminder of our vast responsibility that we have.

Testify To Love
by Avalon

All the colors of the rainbow
All the voices of the wind
Every dream that reaches out
That reaches out to find where love begins
Every word of every story
Every star in every sky
Every corner of creation lives to testify

(Chorus)
For as long as I shall live
I will testify to love
I’ll be a witness in the silences when words are not enough
With every breath I take
I will give thanks to God above
For as long as I shall live
I will testify to love

From the mountains to the valleys
From the rivers to the sea
Every hand that reaches out
Every hand that reaches out to offer peace
Every simple act of mercy
Every step to kingdom come
All the hope in every heart will speak what love has done

Spring Sing

I am updating my blog at Oklahoma Christian University this morning. Here for Spring Sing 2006. Great to see Brian as well as the other Central college students.

Be in prayer for Evan as he begins our series on Deacons tomorrow morning.

Also be in prayer for our Senior Minister Search Committee as they begin the interview process.


What a great blessing to have so many committed members at Central. We are truely blessed to have a unified congregation who loves and cares for each other.

A Body That Prays Together

Each Wednesday evening I get to share a special time sitting around a large brown conference table with five of the most Godly men that I have ever met. These men are the first to tell you they have faults, inadequacies, and don’t have all the answers to problems that constantly arise, but they do know the One that is perfect, holy and has all the answers of life.

The time we spend praying for the Central Family is time that I cherish each time we get together. These men pour their hearts out to the Father over those who are sick, frustrated, troubled and are spiritually lost. Many times we don’t know what to say on some occasions but our Father understands and provides the right words to help us as leaders as we ask Him for guidance and wisdom as we shepherd the flock.

The Central Family is a body that believes in prayer. In times of trouble and in times of joy, we constantly need to be on our knees to our Father praising Him for all that He has done and will do for his people on the corner of Huntoon and College.

Thank you for your constant prayers and support as we serve you and serve our Father!

Deacons

The Central Church of Christ has been blessed with many willing members that wish to serve in a variety of ways. New ministries have taken place during the past couple of years such as MOPS, Monday for the Master and WINGS. These ministries along with several others at Central have blessed many lives.

Because of the increasing demands on needing additional ministries and the need to serve others Central will begin the process of seeking additional Deacons to serve the congregation.

Beginning on Sunday, March 5, Evan Burdan will begin a three week series on the ministry of a Deacon.

The word deacon comes from a Greek word meaning "servant." We find the first deacons being chosen because of a specific need in Acts 6. The needs and circumstances of a given situation in the New Testament church determined when deacons were appointed and how many were required. The deacons had authority only as they were assigned to be over some specific business.

The Bible has clearly instructed early Christians (and us) about the qualifications for men who serve in the office of deacon (Acts 6:3, I Tim. 3:8-13):

Good reputation
Full of the Holy Spirit
Full of wisdom
Reverent (serious)
Not double-tongued
Not addicted to wine
Not greedy for money
Hold faith with pure conscience
Found blameless
One wife (who is reverent, temperate, faithful, and not a slanderer)
Manages his own family well

Please be in prayer as we begin to look at the needs of the Central Church and those men willing to serve in a variety of ways.

Likes-Dislikes

Growing up in San Diego spoiled me. I love warm, sunshine and the smell of the ocean. I don’t care for cold, windy, snowy days. But I deal with it (more blankets and a heavier coat). I appreciate God bringing me to a state that allows me to have almost a four-acre lot compared to being able to touch both houses with my arms stretched out next to us in California. We all have our likes and dislikes.

I like prime rib with ketchup. Not many people in their right mind do. I like running at 5:00 a.m. Some hate running at all. Differences. We all are different in what we like and dislike.

But when you open God’s Word and look at the plan he has for us. It’s the same. He wishes that all would come to Him and none be lost.

Today, I encourage you to open His Word and see the beautiful blessings of life that he wants you to have. Take advantage of the Abundant Life that can only be found in Christ Jesus.

Prayer Pagers

A reminder to pray for the following individuals this week using the Prayer Pagers:

JoAnne Farrar – 231-3380
Tommy Martinez – 231-3381
Doris Shinn – 231-3382
Joe Walker – 231-3383
Search Committee (Mike Wright)231-3384

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Dial the number of the person you are praying for.
2. When the voice answers “enter the number you wish displayed”, press 777# and hang up.
3. Pray for that person.

Sunday

I remember growing up my grandmother and grandfather telling me stories about “Church Prayer Meetings” back in Tennessee in the early 1900’s. Times, when the Church would come together just to pray. Prayers would be led for the sick, the hurting, the nation, and world situations.

Today we have some what gone away from that power source that we have as a Body of Believers. Prayer should be just as important today as it was for my grandparents many years ago.

This coming Sunday will be a time of prayer renewal for the Central Church. Robert Klutts will be introducing us to a new way of encouraging others in daily prayer. On Sunday evening Carl has set up our 4th Sunday Praise Night as a “Prayer Service”. I hope you can be here as we encourage each other as well as speak to our Heavenly Father as a Family in prayer.

Sing From the Heart

The February edition of the Christian Chronicle (http://www.christianchronicle.org/) has a very informative story about a dialogue beginning to take place between the a cappella Churches of Christ and the Christian Church/Churches of Christ (instrumental), also known as independent Christian Churches.

This is an effort, according to the article, to discuss differences as well as discuss items both groups have in common. Discussion is a positive move when groups have the same purpose and goals. The main concern that I feel will continue to keep both groups apart is the instrumental worship aspect. I truly believe that this will probably split the Church of Christ once again during the next few years. I love our a cappella heritage.

I believe with all my heart that God intended for man to use his heart as the true instrument in worship to Him. We need to sing and make music in our hearts to God.

I have seen a spirit of true worship that has taken place at Central the past few months. It’s not in new songs or videos or more scripture in our service. It’s the attitude and participation by the body that has enabled us to actually come into His presence. I want that to continue. I want to see Jesus lifted up in our praise and in our communion as a family.

Remember it’s not about me (Thanks Carl) it’s about HIM!

Grace

I receive a bulletin from the Southwest Church in Jonesboro, Arkansas on a bi-weekly basis and enjoy the writings on an elder named Winston Burton. Brother Burton has preached for over 70 years. His health has been declining recently, but still helps shepherd the flock of the 1,200 member Southwest Church.

He writes some great articles that deals with the younger and older generation at Southwest.

The following article was written on February 8, 2006:

In these weeks of being bedfast, I have had time to reflect on how glad I am that I have lived in a period in which the Church of Christ has begun generally to emphasize grace more than in the past. In my near 70 years of preaching, I’ve always preached grace, even though early I was not aware of the rich pregnant meaning of the word. Very typically preachers of my younger years preached what I call “grace but” i.e. having mentioned the word, we were anxious to get on to show “but not by grace alone”. It seems to me now that we didn’t dare pause long on the glory of grace lest someone jump to a conclusion that we were preaching grace alone. Some people taught that, but, we must refute that, we thought.

The result was a church filled with people who were doubtful about their salvation. There were commandments as well as traditions and rules that must be kept perfectly. One could never be sure if he/she had done enough of them to go to heaven or not. Rarely did you find one confident of his salvation.

That is an absolutely false approach to what Jesus and the gospel are all about. Grace means unmerited favor. It means that no saved person ever merited it. God is under no obligation. It means salvation is a gift. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God (Ephesians 2:8). All have sinned….I have; you have. But oh, glory, can you imagine insignificant, weak sinful Winston saved! (Confidently put your name where mine is if you are a Christian. If not, become one).

Ah, but there’s another side: Younger generations among us have heard about grace often. In fact, in recent years I have wondered if some—not just youth—do not jump to the conclusion that salvation by grace means whatever you do afterward is okay. True, grace saves the faithful even though they sin. (If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:8,9). But there is a world of difference in that and using grace to justify our immoral rebellious behavior or even do nothingness. Jude says that such persons “change the grace of god into a license for immorality,” and he calls them “godless” (Jude 4). Hopeless.

A Morning Prayer

A prayer by Thomas Merton

My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going.I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certainwhere it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think I am following Your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. BUT, I believe that the desire to please You does in fact please You. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire. And I know that, if I do this, You will lead me by the right road, though I may know nothing about it. Therefore I will trust You always though I may seem to be lost in the shadow of death. I will not fear, for You are ever with me, and You will never leave me to face my perils alone.

In Jesus Name,
Amen

The Responsibility of Leadership

Scandels. Money laundering. Sexual misconduct. DUI’s. Greed. Business leaders fall every day in America. White collar crime is at an all time high. Why?

We have lost all values and morals in our society. Especially those in leadership capacities. It has been constantly on my mind the past few weeks, so many leaders have fallen recently. It gives all those in leadership a bad name. A bad reputation. In business, but also in the church.

It shouldn’t surprise me to hear of leaders falling. The Bible is full of leaders who fell from grace because they did not keep their eyes centered on the one who gave them the ability and opportunity to lead a group of people or an organization.

Saul and his people were great examples of leaders and followers who fell because they were so interested in their own needs and wants, that they felt like they didn’t need God’s direction.

In 1 Samuel 12:23-25, "As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right. But be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you. Yet if you persist in doing evil, both you and your king will be swept away."

They did persist in doing evil. Was their King swept away? Yes! Saul would soon fall consulting with a witch. Were they swept away? Yes! Eventually they were all swept off to Babylon all because they had persisted in evil. Samuel's conditional prophecy came true.

I have always told Debbie my goal when go to sleep at night is that I want to know that I have tried my very best and that I hope have the best interest of my kids, patrons and employees at heart. I don’t want anything found in my closet that would embarrass me, my family or my God.

Leaders, we have a vast responsibility. One that God has blessed us with. Sometimes it hurts, sometimes we don’t want that responsibility to lead, but God has a different direction for our lives.

God please keep me humble and grounded as I lead my school district each day. I pray that I will always keep my eyes fixed on You. You are the one that can provide that strength and encouragement, that as a leader, I need each day.

Worship....

Worship allows me to come into contact with God, His will, His word, His way, and His people.
Worship shows me where I need to work harder and where I need to focus my attention.
Worship provides a place for me to retreat from the stresses of the world.
Worship provides me with a support structure to assist me in times of trails and/or struggles.
Worship allows me to praise the Lord while sharing my personal relationship with the world.

Here Is My Heart

Had a few requests for the words to “Here is My Heart” a song that was sung by the quartet at Saturday 4 the Savior. We will be singing this in a few weeks during our morning worship assembly. Carl thank you for reminding us to "Listen to the Sounds of Love" each day!

Here is My Heart
Martin Nystrom
1998 Integrity Music

Merciful Savior
Gracious Redeemer
Slow in your anger
Rich in Your love
Full of compassion
Longing to heal and bless
You will forgive all of my sin
If I will confess

Here is my heart, Lord
I lay it open
Search every corner
Cleanse every part
Here is my heart, Lord
Yielded and broken
Merciful Lord
Come and restore
Here is my heart.

My Favorite Valentine's Day

One of my favorite Valentine’s Day was in 1979. Debbie was a senior in high school and I was a junior. We had just started dating about three months earlier. After basketball practice on Valentine’s Day, I got dressed up in my 100% polyester brown suit (Not Leisure Suit) with my wide, short brown tie, and I took out the most beautiful girl in the youth group (wearing a maroon dress) to a restaurant called Goodtime Charlie’s at the Falls in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We had a great evening. I got her a special card and gave her a heart necklace. We ordered butterfly shrimp and enjoyed the evening talking about the future and what we wanted to accomplish.

What a future it has been! I never thought sitting there that night that we would look back on that evening 28 years later and say that was the start to a beautiful love story. A love story, where we have placed God as the head of all our decisions and callings of life. One that we have enjoyed as life-long partners helping each other become the very best in our spiritual, emotional, personal and professional walks. One that has blessed us with two sons that have been so rewarding and special.

Debbie, this Valentines Day, I remember that special evening in 1979. One that I will always cherish because I spent it with you!

(P.S. Sorry Deb, but I have a basketball game, as usual, that I must supervise tonight. Rain check on a special evening out)

Loving Each Other

In 1947, Jackie Robinson was the first black man to play in the Major League. While he was trying to overcome the color barrier as the only black in the Major League, he was jeered and ridiculed in almost every stadium in which he played. One day, while he was playing in his home stadium in Brooklyn, he made an error and even his own home fans began to boo and ridicule him. Robinson dejectedly returned to his second base. Pee Wee Reese, the short-stop, walked over to Robinson at second base, put his arm around his shoulder, and faced the crowd. The noise of the crowd began to quiet down and they became silent. Later Jackie Robinson said that that arm around his shoulder saved his career. That was a beautiful picture of brotherly love.

Brotherly love is one of the most important concepts that Jesus taught during his short ministry here on earth. At Central I see this practiced daily. May God give us an abundance of Brotherly Love as we unite to minister to those around us.

"Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart"
(1 Peter 1:22)

"By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another"
(John. 13:35)

Saturday for the Savior

What does love sound like? That is the theme for our Saturday for the Savior on February 11. We will begin with a chili cook-off at 5:00 and then our devotional at 6:15. The Saturday for the Savior programs are intended to bring us closer as a family, and closer in our relationship with God. We will have a challenge by Carl Wheeler, uplifting singing, prayer time, scripture and special music and video. All of this to bring us in the presence of God who has blessed us greatly.

Paul Harvey's On Air Prayer

"Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those Who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we have done.

We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values.

We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery.

We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare.

We have killed our unborn and called it choice.

We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable.

We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self esteem.

We have abused power and called it politics.

We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition.

We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression.

We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and called it Enlightenment. Search us, Oh God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from every sin and set us free. Amen!"


Commentator Paul Harvey aired this prayer on his radio program,"The Rest of the Story," and received a larger response to this program than any other he has ever aired. With the Lord's help, may this prayer sweep over our nation and wholeheartedly become our desire so that we again can be called "One Nation under God."

Praying for Our Future

As I was holding Alyson on Sunday morning, I couldn’t resist thinking about her future. What will she be like when she is 10 years old? Will she be tall like her mother? Will she still be wearing glasses? Will she be talented in music? Will she like sports? Will she still like horses?

Her future is so exciting and the potential she has will allow her to be a beautiful and talented young lady. I look forward to watching her develop into a Godly Christian young lady.

How about our teens and other young people at Central. What will they be like in 10 years?

Our kids and young people today need your constant prayers and support. They are living in one of the most difficult times in the history of the world. They have the ability to be what they want to be but they also have can have what ever they desire. The temptations they face are extreme and mind-boggling. From the media to internet to music to lifestyle our young people will be continually hit with worldly desires and challenges as they grow up and mature.

What can we do as adults? Pray. Pray for our young people daily. Pray that God will place that hedge around them as they grow and as they develop the Christian principles that they will need to live in a world of greed and filth.

Support our young people. Talk with them and be truly be interested in them as young people. Find out their talents and abilities and support them in their positive pursuits.

As a church, we must instill in them the ability to understand right and wrong. They need God’s Word more than any other group of young people. They need to understand what God says about sexuality, life style, relationships, alcohol, peer pressure and commitment to God, Church and Family.

I pray that we, at Central, will be that support mechanism that our young people need. That Godly people can bless them with direction, love and encouragement as they grow up in Jesus Christ.

Alyson, I pray for you often. And I know God will richly bless you as you look to Him!

Worship

“Worship is much more than the corporate assembly. Worship is the submission and sacrifice of our lives for the purpose of glorying God in everything we do. Worship is our total life response to God's creative and redemptive acts. In worship we offer our lives as a sacrifice before God in response to God's work for us. It is the orientation of our very being through the recognition of who we are as God's people whom he has created to share communion with him. Everything about our life is oriented and dedicated to the glory and honor of God. All of life is worship because all of life is devoted to God's glory”.

On Going to Church
John Mark Hicks

Change in Time

This coming Sunday, February 5, evening services will begin at 5:00 p.m. instead of at our regular 6:00 p.m. time. One of our young men, Andy Askins will be speaking.

All for Jesus

Mary D. James wrote "All For Jesus" as a New Year’s resolution. As she wrote a New Year’s letter for 1871, she rejoiced in the effectiveness of her work for Jesus the previous year. She wrote that "I have written more, talked more, prayed more, and thought more for Jesus than in any previous year, and have had more peace of mind, resulting from a stronger and more simple faith in Him." She saw how her increased commitment to God gave her a stronger ministry. "All For Jesus" was a personal expression of her devotion to God; that all that she was going do in the coming year would be for His glory.

This text is one of two commonly used for this hymn, the other being by William J. Sparrow-Simpson.

Rex has requested this hymn be sung after his message Sunday on “Serving in Ministry”.

All for Jesus
By Mary James

All for Jesus, all for Jesus!All my being’s ransomed powers: All my thoughts and words and doings,All my days and all my hours.

Let my hands perform His bidding, Let my feet run in His ways; Let my eyes see Jesus only, Let my lips speak forth His praise.

Since my eyes were fixed on Jesus, I’ve lost sight of all beside; So enchained my spirit’s vision,Looking at the Crucified.

Oh, what wonder! how amazing! Jesus, glorious King of kings, Deigns to call me His belovèd, Lets me rest beneath His wings.

Discipline

Discipline. Is it a bad word? A negative feeling for many?

Discipline is one of those items we hate to discuss. As a former high school principal, I felt, at times, that’s all I did some days. Instead of being the instructional leader of the building, I felt like I was the judge and jury on several occasions. The older I get or hopefully the more mature, I see the need for discipline in our society. I see that individuals must be held accountable for things that we do or not do as we live in a civilized complex society. Without discipline, we have no order. Chaos exists.

God speaks volumes in His Word about discipline. In the Old Testament, discipline was severe. In the New Testament, discipline brought about severe punishment, but what has happened over the last thousand years is that we think discipline is too severe and no one is held accountable for wrong.

We will be held accountable. It might not be today or tomorrow but we will be held accountable for our actions. God states this throughout His Word.

Proverbs 15:9-11 (New International Version)

9 The LORD detests the way of the wicked but he loves those who pursue righteousness.
10 Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die.
11 Death and Destruction lie open before the LORD— how much more the hearts of men!

Top 10 Ways to Improve Church Attendance

A liitle humor on a beautiful winter day.

TOP TEN WAYS TO IMPROVE CHURCH ATTENDANCE IN 2006
(by Dave Tippett)

10. Watch Aslan the Lion take down a gazelle, live on the platform
9. More "open mic" opportunities during worship service
8. One of those fake shark fins in baptistry
7. Floating sermon points dance in front of your eyes via cool 3-D PowerPoint slides
6. Spiritual tech support guys will tell you not to just "re-boot your soul" every time you call
5. Sermon series: "Thomas Kincaid; the soft lighting Disciple"
4. Wi-Fi access for wireless hearing aides
3. Tazer the Sleeping Sound Booth Guy Day
2. Will start accepting coupons from non-tithing churches
1. Ability to TiVo the sermon

Confronting

Ever have a friend tell you the truth about something you need to do in your life to make a change for the best? Many times we resent people from telling us we need to make a change. See we feel we are the ones in the right. Many times people don’t want to say something, confronting is not easy.

The life of David is one of those cases. David didn’t care for Samuel, Nathan and others who would confront him from time to time, but it had to be done.

A Christian who truly cares for a brother or sister at times must confront when you feel a soul is in jeopardy.

Not easy! But necessary!

Lord Reign In Me

Lord Reign in Me
Words and Music by Brenton Brown

Over all the earth
You reign on high
Every mountain stream,
every sunset sky
But my one request,
Lord my only aim
Is that You reign in me again

Lord reign in me,
reign in Your power
Over all my dreams,
in my darkest hour
You are the Lord of all I am
So won't You reign in me again

Over every thought,
over every word
May my life reflect
the beauty of my Lord
Cause You mean more to me
than any earthly thing
So won't You reign in me again

Your Favorite Songs

"I want worship to be directed to God and to express the thoughts of the whole community of faith. BUT, if I got to pick my favorite three worship songs to sing this Sunday morning, they would be . . . ." Finish the sentence. I'll give you mine later.

This has been a question on several worship blogs lately.

Be in prayer for Gary as he continues our "Abundant Life" series this Sunday and Josh as he leads us in worship.

America's Moral Crisis

Pick up former President Jimmy Carter's new book, Our Endangered Values: America's Moral Crisis.

Carter identifies the "world's greatest challenge" as "the growing chasm between the rich and the poor people on earth. There is not only a great disparity between the two, but the gap is steadily widening" (page 179).

I see this every day as a school administrator. I see the gap between the poor and those “that have” increasing greater each year.

When I first started as a high school principal in Osage City almost 15 years ago our small community of 3,500 people had about 10% of our students on free and reduced lunch. Today we are approaching 45%.

This year also marked the first time that the non-traditional home became the majority of living situations for our students in Osage City. We definitely have a societal problem that is not only impacting our educational system but our society in general.

As a church what will be our response be to this situation? Will we continue to see a problem and do nothing? Or will we become actively involved in seeking ways to teach people about Christ and what He can do in the lives of people.

The power of Jesus crosses that gap of poverty, family situations, prejudice and so many societal issues and allows us to have the abundant life that we have been discussing as a body at Central.

Living like Christ

To be a church that is actually of Christ is to be a group of people who are actually like Christ. Putting a sign out front of a building that says Church of Christ, and doing some worship practices like churches did in the first century, does not make the people that meet in that building like Christ. We have to live it each day.

One Year Anniversary

One year ago today, I began this blog site on worship. It has been an outlet for me, and hopefully someone out there in “blog land” reads it from time to time. Worship Reflections was meant to be a vehicle to discuss the aspects and importance of worship in the Church as well as in our individual lives today.

"Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name."
Ps. 100: 2, 4

Sunday

A busy weekend begins. Preparation for Sunday morning by Evan as our Worship Leader and Jerry as he blesses us by sharing Gods Word. Pray for both of them today.

After morning services a few of us will travel south to Oklahoma Christian for their annual Lectureship. Looking forward to great singing, powerful preaching, and seeing friends from the past, as well as seeing Brian and the Central college kids!

Be in prayer for our February 11, Saturday 4 the Savior. The theme is "Sounds of Love". How great is the love that Christ had for us that He would die on a cruel cross for our sins. We will be challenged about that great love He has for us on that special evening of praise.

Be in prayer also for our search committee as they look for the right family to join us in our work here at Central.

May God continue to richly bless the Central Family!

Inner Peace

Some of my favorite lines from a few older songs talk about the inner peace that can only be found through a relationship with Jesus:

Peace, perfect peace,
With sorrows surging round,
On Jesus' bosom naught
but calm is found.

Be still, my soul;
The Lord is on thy side.
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change he faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul; thy best, thy heavenly Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Ye fearful saints,
Fresh courage take,
The clouds ye so much dread
Are big will mercy,
And shall break
In blessings on your head.

O Joy that seekest me through pain,
I can not close my heart to thee;
I trace the rainbow through the rain,
And feel the promise is not vain,
That morn shall tearless be.

A Body Unified

As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

Ephesians 4:1-6

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:12-17

May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 15:5-6

A Body That Makes An Impact

In Stephen Covey’s book, “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People”, he discusses what it takes to really make an impact on an individual’s life. He looks at six significant areas:

1. Get to know and understand the individuals you have daily contact with;

2. Try to do the little things that make people happy;

3. Keep commitments;

4. Clarify your expectations;

5. Show personal integrity;

6. Apologize when you make a mistake.

As I read over these items, I believe if we would practice each one of these how effective we would be working with those we come into contact with on a daily basis. Placing our emphasis on others and taking a back seat is often difficult. But in the long run in reaps big benefits and rewards.

Each day I witness or hear about “random acts of kindness” and “individuals going beyond the call” as you minister at Central. The genuine care you have for people is awesome.

A Body That Worships

My favorite time of the week is when we come together as a family in worship. That special time where we can finally see our brothers and sisters after a busy week battling Satan and all his temptations. Worship is that moment when we can connect with each other and worship our Heavenly Father as one body. When we worship the world stops for a moment. The world and all its cruel hate, filth and corruption is a million miles away as we bow our hearts to our Heavenly Father and as we commune around the Lord’s Table.

The way we will most affect change is by what's happening out in the pews. If we are a worshipping church, if we allow ourselves to be engaged in every part of our corporate experience together--then guests will come in and say, "Surely the spirit of God is in this place!" What will really impact them though is what they feel from the living body that is the Central Church. If we are worshipping and praying and studying with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength, it will impact people. We want this to be a safe and spiritually challenging place for guests as well as with each other.

Spend time this week preparing for worship. A time that allows us to connect and be a body devoted and unified as we praise our Heavenly Father!

Expectations

As we begin this new week, remember the expectations that we shared together yesterday during our morning worship.

Expectations as Members of the Central Church

1. Protect the unity of this Family

2. Share in Family responsibility

3. Serve in Ministry

4. Support the Spiritual Reputation of the Central Family

God is blessing the Central Church in many ways. Be in prayer for our family this week.

We Are the Body of Christ

This Sunday we will continue are series on Sources for Abundant Living. We will be examinig the bonds of a shared purpose and the bond of a simple structure here at Central. The bond of love and unity that Roger spoke about last week is a must to be a successful Church for our Lord and Savior. I appreciate the true feeling of love, unity and acceptance that is found at Central. Let's celebrate that unity on Sunday as we worship our Father as a Family!


We Are The Body Of Christ
David Hampton, Scott Wesley Brown

One heart, one spirit
One voice to praise You
We are the body of Christ

One goal, one vision
To see You exalted
We are the body of Christ

Chorus:
And to this
We give our lives
To see You glorified
One heart, one spirit
One voice to praise You
We are the body of Christ
(End) We are the body of Christ

©1997 New Spring Publishing, Inc. (Admin. by Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing, Inc

Encouraging One Another

Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant knew how to get the best out of his players. He explained his secret this way: “I’m just a plowhand from Arkansas, but I’ve learned how to hold a team together, how to lift some up, and how to calm others down, until finally as a team, we’ve got one heartbeat. There are just three things I would say. If anything goes bad, I did it. If anything goes semi-good, we did it. If anything goes real good, you did it. This is all it really takes to get people to win football games for you.”

Only a truly big person knows how to take blame and how to give credit. Sometimes, it means being criticized for things that are not entirely your fault. At other times, it means watching from the “sidelines” as others are praised for things for which you are responsible. It is tough to take someone else’s lumps; it is even tougher to watch someone else take your bows. Yet, isn’t that at least a part of what being a TEAM is all about; making others look good while keeping your own humility intact?

Encourage each other! The results will be amazing!

Loving God, Loving Each Other

This past Sunday Roger challenged us and introduced us to our new six week series on Sources of Abundant Living. He talked with us about real satisfaction in life begins as you learn to follow Jesus' model for loving others. Underlying Jesus' style of love is a fundamental commitment to being in relationships with other people in the Family of God. In fact, your commitment has to be so strong that people who are not Christians will see Jesus' love in you and recognize you as a Christ-follower.

It should our goal each day to live that Godly life, to display Christ in everything that we do. Touching lives by getting to know the needs of people.

"A new command I give you; love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
(John 13:34-35)