Abstinence Classes Don't Stop Sex

Study: Abstinence classes don't stop sex
By KEVIN FREKING,
Associated Press

Students who participated in sexual abstinence programs were just as likely to have sex within a few years as those who did not, according to a long-awaited study mandated by Congress.
Also, those who attended the abstinence classes reported having similar numbers of sexual partners as those who did not attend the classes, and they first had sex at about the same age as their control group counterparts — 14 years and nine months, according to Mathematica Policy Research Inc.

The federal government now spends about $176 million annually on abstinence-until-marriage education. Critics have repeatedly said they don't believe the programs are working, and the study will give them reinforcement.

However, Bush administration officials cautioned against drawing sweeping conclusions from the study. They said the four programs reviewed — among several hundred across the nation — were some of the very first established after Congress overhauled the nation's welfare laws in 1996.

Officials said one lesson they learned from the study is that the abstinence message should be reinforced in subsequent years to truly affect behavior.

"This report confirms that these interventions are not like vaccines. You can't expect one dose in middle school, or a small dose, to be protective all throughout the youth's high school career," said Harry Wilson, the commissioner of the Family and Youth Services Bureau at the Administration for Children and Families.

For its study, Mathematica looked at students in four abstinence programs around the country as well as peers from the same communities who did not participate in the abstinence programs. The 2,057 youths came from big cities — Miami and Milwaukee — as well as rural communities — Powhatan, Va., and Clarksdale, Miss.

The students who participated in abstinence education did so for one to three years. Their average age was 11 to 12 when they entered the programs back in 1999.

Mathematica then did a follow up survey in late 2005 and early 2006. By that time, the average age was about 16.5. Mathematica found that about half of the abstinence students and about half from the control group reported that they remained abstinent.

"I really do think it's a two-part story. First, there is no evidence that the programs increased the rate of sexual abstinence," said Chris Trenholm, a senior researcher at Mathematica who oversaw the study. "However, the second part of the story that I think is equally important is that we find no evidence that the programs increased the rate of unprotected sex."

Trenholm said his second point of emphasis was important because some critics of abstinence programs have contended that they lead to less frequent use of condoms.

Mathematica's study could have serious implications as Congress considers renewing this summer the block grant program for abstinence education known as Title V. The federal government has authorized up to $50 million annually for the program. Participating states then provide $3 for every $4 they get from the federal government. Eight states decline to take part in the grant program.

Some lawmakers and advocacy groups believe the federal government should use that money for comprehensive sex education, which would include abstinence as a piece of the curriculum.

Suggestion or Editorial Comment:
Moms, Dads, Churches: How about saving millions of US tax dollars and start teaching God's Plan for Sex where it needs to be taught. At home and at Church.

Elders/Deacons Meeting Minutes

April 10, 2007
Elders/Deacons Meeting Minutes, Central Church of Christ, Topeka, KS

In Attendance: Roger Hamm (Presiding), David Carriger, Bill Carriger, Rex Allen, Jerry Myers, Steve Shatto, Joe Todd, Kurt Johnston, Bryan Phillips, Carl Wheeler, David Shinn, E van Burdan

Scripture-Titus 2:11-15…"for now the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men and teaches us..to do good things!"

Prayer-Carl Wheeler

Treasurers Report-Ed McCoy….congregation in very good financial shape with a weekly contribution of 7100.00 so far in 2007

Brief Review of March, 2007 Minutes-Approved

New Business/Round Table/Action Items/Updates…
1) LeAnn Valerius has agreed to be our paid summer youth intern focusing on the Jr/Sr High girls. LeAnn is very well-qualified and will be a great helper to us.
2) Kurt reports the A/C repairs/replacement will be expensive (but necessary with summer coming) and that the warranty will help defray a large amount.
3) David Shinn is grateful for the volunteers to help him with Hearthstone devotionals on Sunday and with communion for our many shut-ins. These include DeLeons, Gentrys, Joe Todd, Dave Jamieson family, Anthony Dreiling family, and others. David also asks for prayers for his mother who is the last stages of her illness.
4) Roger complimented Joe Todd for picking up so many needing a ride to worship, usually with little or no advance notice….thx Joe!!
5) Carl reports Mark Barone from CFS will speak to the teenagers (only) on 22nd; 5th Sunday singing will be at Central on 4/29 with the theme "all for one and One for all"; Carl reports Dave Jamieson doing a great job in the High School class; Carl is scheduling teachers for the adult Wed night classes this summer during VBS; the themes of the adult classes will be the same lesson the children are learning; He will moderate a class for 6 weeks this summer for our graduating and "off to college" seniors on LifeSkills they will need to be on their own; he gave us an update on the health of Heather's Mom
6) Roger reported on the Children's Ministry; much planning toward VBS, service projects, work on the Tree of Knowledge and mucho energy means this part of our Central ministry is flourishing!
7) Gary S had sent a list of needed projects around the building/house on email. Some discussion about prioritizing these items.
8) David reviewed the Ross' family visit last weekend. Lance/Jamie Havens coming this weekend. Lance helped Bill Carriger at Camp Mt. Hermon approx 10 years ago.
9) Jerry passed around a letter from Rod DeVault warning about an innocent appearing book called Conversations with God (and for Teenagers).
10) Rex told us of Helen Owens daughter Brandy's husbands father who died in Wichita; Max and Prisca Dauner will be visiting from France and he will speak July 15 on Sunday morning.
11) Bill C reports the WINGS Neighborhood give-away is 4/28. Our youth group and Scott Smith will pass out flyers in our neighborhood soon to advertise. He was excited about the 380+ in attendance last Sunday.
12) David Carriger encouraged us to remember the Pantry drive this weekend; 13 graduating Seniors mean our room 11 is stretched too thin to have ourSenior night at the building so….the mothers of the graduating Seniors are meeting to explore the best format.

Closing Prayer-Steve Shatto

Respectfully Submitted, Jerry Myers

Humor for a Thursday

You Never Hear in Church.......

• Hey! It's MY turn to sit on the front pew!
• I was so enthralled, I never noticed your sermon went over time 25 minutes.
• Personally, I find visitation much more enjoyable than golf.
• I volunteer to be the permanent teacher for the Junior High Sunday School class.
• Forget the minimum salary: let's pay our minister so he can live like we do.
• I love it when we sing hymns I've never heard before!
• Since we're all here, let's start the worship service early!
• Lets send our minister to this Bible seminar in the Bahamas.
• Nothing inspires me and strengthens my commitment like our annual stewardship campaign!

YC Graduate Killed in Iraq

York College graduate killed in Iraq
U.S. Navy Petty Officer Adam McSween to be laid to rest in York
By Melanie WilkinsonYork News-Times Staff Writer

YORK -- U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Adam McSween was killed in Iraq on Friday, April 6, where he was serving as a demolitions specialist. McSween was a 2001 York College graduate.
McSween and two others were killed by an IED (improvised explosive device) that hit their humvee, according to college officials. As of press time, the U.S. Department of Defense had not yet issued a formal release regarding the casualties.

His wife, Erin (Hammitt) McSween, is a 2003 graduate of York College. They have two young daughters, Lilly and Gwyneth.

"Adam was just a very likable guy," says Steddon Sikes from the public relations department at the college. "His big smile, mixed with his southern charm, made it easy to be around him. I remember that when he first arrived in York for a leadership camp -- he didn't know a soul except through phone conversations with several of us in the admissions office at the time. I believe an alum had pointed him in our direction. It was a rarity to have a student from Georgia, but Adam wanted to attend a small Christian college where he wouldn't feel out of place.

Nebraska was almost too far away from home; however, he was willing to give it a try . . . especially after he made quick friends during that first visit. He was a bit on the shy side, but he genuinely loved people and seemed to take it in stride that he was the center of attention with his pronounced southern accent. He will be greatly missed."

Eric Eckert, also a 2003 graduate of York College, said McSween was a "really nice guy. And it seemed like he was always involved in everything that was going on at the college.

"Adam was just a really caring person, always compassionate of others," Eckert said. "And it seemed like he was always in a good mood."

Jared Stark, now assistant dean of students at York College, was one of McSween's friends while he attended college here. The two of them met as students at the leadership camp Sikes referred to. Stark said he was contacted by a mutual friend of his and McSween's on Friday -- that's when he learned that his friend had been killed.

"Me and Adam -- we met in the summer of 1997, during the Advance Leadership camp, and we were friends for about three years while we were at York College together. What do people remember most about him? Definitely his smile . . . and the kindness he always showed to others.

"He always talked about going into the military," Stark said. "He was very driven to join, and he went to a lot of training sessions. He even tried to get into the Navy SEALs. He was very willing to serve his country and was committed whole-heartedly to doing so."

"Adam met and married his wife here, and now they have two little girls," said York College president, Dr. Wayne Baker. "And we picked him out of a high school class . . . with every incoming freshman class, we pick a few we feel may be prospective leaders. And he was one of those. We knew early on he was a special guy. We're family, here at York College, and when one of us falls, we all hurt."

Arrangements are being made for several services -- in Oak Harbor, Wash., where his wife and daughters are currently residing; in Valdosta, Ga.; and then finally in York for interment.

"Yes, he will be buried with full military honors at Greenwood Cemetery," said Dr. Baker. "I talked to his wife an hour or so ago, and she told me that when he was first deployed, they sat down, wrote a will and talked about what to do if the worst should happen. They agreed that they would both be buried at Greenwood Cemetery in York. She told me that this is the place they consider home and I was pretty amazed. This was where they met, fell in love and this is the place she said they call home."

"I would hope that . . . well, I can say with confidence that York College will participate in honoring him," Stark said. He didn't know in what capacity the college would be participating in the soldier's funeral, "but I've talked to several people about what we can do."
Dr. Baker said that as far as a date and time for the funeral service -- that information is not yet available.

"She (Erin McSween) said she hasn't heard from the military, as far as when services will be able to be held," Dr. Baker said yesterday afternoon. "They are trying to expedite getting his body out of Iraq and that hasn't happened yet. She's hoping that the service will be able to be held here in the middle or latter part of next week."

If residents would like to send condolences to McSween's wife and family, they may do so at: 2337 B Lark St., Oak Harbor, WA 98277.

The Challenge

Easter that was the easy part. Now the challenge - live well, and honor the risen Lord today, and tomorrow, and for as long as He gives us breath.

Central YP/College Class

What a great Sunday! We had 380 in worship on Easter Sunday! Several visitors on a beautiful spring day.

The Young Professional-College Class begins a new study this Sunday,"The Sickness Within."

Is it really what's inside that counts? If so, what's going on inside you? Worry? Doubt? Loneliness? Anxiety? Lust? Sometimes the internal struggles that no one sees are the ones that blind us the most. We'll get the inside story on how God offers hope and strength for overcoming these battles in this new series.

Next Sunday evening the YP/College Class will meet at 6:00 p.m. for our monthly devotional and fellowship at Jean Duncan's. We invite all of our college age and young professionals to a great evening of fun, fellowship and praise.

Also next Sunday we will have another youth minister candidate here. Lance and Jamie Havens from Moore, Oklahoma will be here to visit.

Be in prayer this week for our church family.

Have a great week!

Easter Sunday

Easter Sunday
April 8, 2007
Order of Worship

“A New Beginning”

Welcome

100 Holy Ground
101 Holy Ground

Prayer

Scripture: Matthew 28:1-10

195 Behold the Lamb
176 Lamb of God
218 Blessed Jesus

WATCH THE LAMB (VIDEO)

Communion
Contribution

781 Thank You, Lord

Message “A New Beginning” Evan Burdan

Invitation: 383 Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross

Announcements

344 Low in the Grave He Lay (All Verses then Chorus)

Closing Prayer

Sunday's Coming

Sunday's Coming
Rejoice in the Miracle of Easter!

It's Friday. Jesus is arrested in the garden where he was praying.
But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. The disciples are hiding and Peter's denying that he knows the Lord.
But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. Jesus is standing before the high priest of Israel,silent as a lamb before the slaughter.
But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. Jesus is beaten, mocked, and spit upon.
But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. Those Roman soldiers are flogging our Lord with a leather scourge that has bits of bonesand glass and metal, tearing at his flesh.
But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. The Son of man stands firm as they press the crown of thorns down into his brow.
But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. See Him walking to Calvary, the blood dripping from His body. See the cross crashing down on His back as He stumbles beneath the load.It's Friday; but Sunday's coming!

It's Friday. See those Roman soldiers driving the nails into the feet and hands of my Lord. Hear my Jesus cry, "Father, forgive them."It's Friday. But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. Jesus is hanging on the cross, bloody and dying.But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. The sky grows dark, the earth begins to tremble, and He who knew no sin became sin for us. Holy God who will not abide with sin pours out His wrath on that perfect sacrificial lamb who cries out, "My God. My God. Why hast thou forsaken me?" What a horrible cry.But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. At the moment of Jesus' death, the veil of the Temple that separates sinful man from Holy God was torn from the top to the bottom because Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. Jesus is hanging on the cross, heaven is weeping and hell is partying.But that's because it's Friday, and they don't know it but Sunday's coming.

And, on that horrible day 2000+ years ago, Jesus the Christ, the Lord of Glory, the only begotten Son of God, the only perfect man, died on the cross of Calvary. Satan thought he had won the victory. Surely he had destroyed the Son of God. Finally he had disproved the prophecy God had uttered in the garden and the one who was to crush his head had been destroyed.But that was Friday.

Now it's Sunday. And just about dawn on that first day of the week, there was a great earthquake. But that wasn't the only thing that was shaking because now it's Sunday. And the angel of the Lord is coming down out of heaven and rolling the stone away from the door of the tomb.Yes, it's Sunday,and the angel of the Lord is sitting on that stone and the guards posted at the tomb to keep the body from disappearing were shaking in their boots because it's Sunday, and the lamb that was silent before the slaughter is now the resurrected lion from the tribe of Judah, for "He is not here," the angel says.

He is risen indeed! It's Sunday, and the crucified/resurrected Christ has defeated death, hell, sin and the grave.It's Sunday.And now everything has changed. It's the age of grace, God's grace poured out on all who would look to that crucified lamb of Calvary. Grace freely given to all who would believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross of Calvary, was buried and rose again.

All because it's Sunday

Easter Sunday: Every Sunday

The first day of the week brings hope. It remembers the past and it bears witness to the future. It reminds us of the first day, the first of all first days of the week, when God conquered death; it reminds us of Easter Sunday. It also transports us into the future where, by faith, we see death's final overthrow. There, too, in the future we see Easter Sunday. Further, Easter Sunday is already here. It affirms the alreadiness of God's transforming power among his people.

John Mark Hicks

Strategic Planning

Strategic planning is a complex process of organizational change that looks at the world 5-10 years ahead. USD 420 Osage City has been fully engaged in this ongoing process over the last several years in curriculum development, academic improvement and school facilities. Strategic planning will be a major initiative for Osage City during the next two to three years. We now are gathering information and data, developing goals and indicators to measure their success, and identifying the most efficient ways to use available resources. We are preparing now to set direction and priorities for USD 420.

Planning and goal setting are essential to keeping a school system (and any organization) moving forward and improving. The focus of every school district should be on teaching and learning; however, the demands of budget, personnel, facilities, and state requirements can easily overwhelm a system. A Strategic Plan is a powerful tool in maintaining focus through the many challenges faced by school systems. An effective Strategic Plan can also improve internal and external communications and lead to increased teamwork as system-wide goals are pursued.

How about congregations? How about a Strategic Plan on saving lost souls in Northeast Kansas? What will it take to be the Church that God desires us to be? Knowing our mission and setting goals for carrying out the mission are extremely important.

Questions that we need to ask ourselves as we look at the future of the Central congregation:

What is positive about Central?
What are the challenges we face as a Church?
What would be five changes that you would like to see immediately occur at Central?
What would be five changes that you would like to see occur in the next 5-10 years?
Where do you see yourself in the mission of the Central Church?
Do you really understand and believe in the mission of Central-The ABC’s?

Busy, Frantic, Overwhelmed

I appreciate Randy Harris’ words in, Like a Shepherd Lead Us:

This is the place to begin any discussion of spirituality for church leaders — a group of people who surely fit the description of being busy, frantic and overwhelmed. Let me say it as clearly as I can: Spirituality cannot be one more task piled on top of people already overburdened with the care of God’s flock. Enough is enough! We are not the Messiah. That job, thankfully, has been taken and done extraordinarily well! You and I must quit acting as if the whole of eternity depends on us doing one more job.

The call of the spiritual life is not to more frantic activity. The spiritual life is rather the call to peace. So, as we come to walk more closely with God, the chaos should recede from our lives. We cease to be under the tyranny of frantic business.

When I visited the Church of the Savior in Washington, D.C., the leaders repeated a phrase that has haunted me ever since. "If you are overextended, you are under-committed." They take commitment so seriously that they believe one can’t be committed to thirty different things. So if you are overextended, it’s virtually guaranteed that you’re under-committed. I think that is the description of most Christian leaders I know, and it is certainly a description of me. Deeper spirituality is not a matter of doing more stuff.

(Randy Harris, "Spirituality for the Busy, Frantic, and Overwhelmed" in Like a Shepherd Lead Us, edited by David Fleer and Charles Siburt)

God's Power

1 Corinthians 6:14
By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also.

Ephesians 1:18-20
I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms.

Romans 8:28-39
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all--how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died--more than that, who was raised to life--is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written:"For your sake we face death all day long;we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

2 Peter 1:3
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

Beautiful One

The new worship music that has been written during the past few years is powerful. It truly describes the Beautiful One!

Beautiful One
by Tim Hughes

Wonderful, so wonderful
Is Your unfailing love
Your cross has spoken mercy over me
No eye has seen, no ear has heard
No heart could fully know
How glorious, how beautiful you are!
Beautiful One I love
Beautiful One I adore
Beautiful One my soul must sing

Powerful, so powerful
Your glory fills the skies
Your mighty works displayed for all to see
The beauty of Your majesty
Awakes my heart to sing
How marvellous, how wonderful You are
You opened my eyes to Your wonders anew
You captured my heart with this love
Because nothing on earth is as beautiful as You
My soul, my soul must sing
My soul, my soul must sing
My soul, my soul must sing
Beautiful One

copyright 2002 Thankyou Music/MCPS

Help Us Remember

Heavenly Father,

Help us remember that the jerk who cut us off in traffic last night is a single mother who worked nine hours that day and is rushing home to cook dinner, help with homework, do the laundry and spend a few precious moments with her children.

Help us to remember that the pierced, tattooed, disinterested young man who can't make change correctly is a worried 19-year-old college student, balancing his apprehension over final exams with his fear of not getting his student loans for next semester.

Remind us, Lord, that the scary looking bum, begging for money in the same spot every day (who really ought to get a job!) is a slave to addictions that we can only imagine in our worst nightmares.

Help us to remember that the old couple walking annoyingly slow through the store aisles and blocking our shopping progress are savoring this moment, knowing that, based on the biopsy report she got back last week, this will be the last year that they go shopping together.Heavenly

Father, remind us each day that, of all the gifts you give us, the greatest gift is love. It is not enough to share that love with those we hold dear. Open our hearts not to just those who are close to us, but to all humanity. Let us be slow to judge and quick to forgive, show patience, empathy and love.

Author Unknown

100 Year Homecoming Celebration

In June of 2009, the Central Church of Christ in Topeka, Kansas, will be celebrating 100 years of service to God and Northeast Kansas. The Homecoming Committee is preparing a very special weekend and wishes to contact everyone who was a former member of the Central Church. If you would like to be added to the mailing list for future updates and information on this Homecoming Weekend, please send your name and address to the following location: Central Church of Christ, 1250 SW College, Topeka, Kansas 66604; or call: (785)233-6157; e-mail address: "Central Church of Christ" <centcofc@swbell.net>

Tulsa Soul Winning Workshop

The Tulsa Soul Winning Workshop begins today at the Tulsa Fairgrounds.

Self Awareness

The range of what we think and do
Is limited by what we fail to notice
And because we fail to notice
That we fail to notice
There is little we can do
To change
Until we notice
How failing to notice
Shapes our thoughts and deeds

–R. D. Laing

Spring Sing 2007

Last weekend Spring Sing at Oklahoma Christian was another outstanding production. Brian played Jack in his club skit. Just glad he didn't have to play Jill!

Spring Break

Happy Spring Break from Kansas!

Order of Worship

Order of Worship
Sunday, March 18, 2007

Welcome:

60 He is Exalted

Jesus, You’re My Firm Foundation

167 Hosanna

Prayer:

Scripture: Romans 5:1-2 and Ephesians 1:18-19a

Wonderful, Merciful Savior

Lords Supper

Contribution

I Love You Lord

I Stand in Awe

Message Evan Burdan

Invitation 768 Jesus, Let Us Come to Know You

Announcements

429 Oh, to Be Like Thee (Verse 1 Only)

Closing Prayer

The Shield of Saint Patrick

Shield of Saint Patrick

I bind unto myself today
the strong name of the trinity,
by invocation of the same,
the Three in One,
the One in Three.

I bind this day to me
forever by power of faith
Christ's incarnation,
His baptism in the Jordan river,
his death on the cross for my salvation;
His bursting from the spiced tomb,
his riding up the heavenly way,
His coming at the day of doom
I bind unto myself today.

I bind unto myself today
the power of God to hold and lead,
His eye to watch,
his might to stay,
his ear to harken to my need,
The wisdom of my God to teach,
his hand to guide,
his shield to ward,
The Word of God to give me speech,
his heavenly host to be my guard.

Christ be with me,
Christ within me,
Christ behind me,
Christ before me,
Christ beside me,
Christ to win me;
Christ to comfort and restore me;
Christ beneath me,
Christ above me,
Christ in quiet,
Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.
I bind unto myself the name,
the strong name of the Trinity,
By invocation of the same,
the Three in One,
and One in Three,
Of whom all nature hath creation,
eternal Father, Spirit, Word;
Praise to the God of my salvation,
salvation is of Christ the Lord!

Elders-Deacons Meeting

Presiding: Bill Carriger
Present: Allen, B. Carriger, D. Carriger, Hamm, Myers, Souder, McCooy,Bruening, Burdan, Smith Todd

Opening Prayer: Ron Bruening,
S/R - Jn. 13:2-17

Treasurer's Report - Ed McCoy - Assets = $213,290.93, Av.
Weeklycontribution = $7,181.72
Congregational Development fund is vailable for developmental needs. Somehouse repair can come from this fund.

Review of February Minutes

Agenda Items:

1. Deacons' Meeting Report - A good meeting was held on 3/4/07. They wentover the budget. Discussed items needing attention, areas to helpcongregation and areas to help the shepherds. It would be good for deacons to be aware of the elders prayer list, where appropriate, for their prayer and help. How we are doing on our 07 goals, and what can we do to help. Discussed the need for 2 Sunday morning services, the need to plan ahead for adult class improvement. It was suggested we bring in someone to help withEvangelism training.

2. Ministry Reports. a. Ron Bruening (Benevolence) reported on Feb. & March needs.
b. Evan Burdan (Involvement) No report. c. Mike Farrar (Special Events) Absent. d. Kurt Johnston (Multi-Media) Absent. e. Ed McKinley (Budget) Absent. f. Bryan Phillips (Finance) Absent. g. Steve Shatto (Senior Saints) Absent. h. David Shinn (Nursing Home/shut-ins) Absent. i. Scott Smith (Youth) Carl took 4 or 5 high schoolers to OC last weekend, several tested for scholarships. WInGS is planning another garage sale onApril 28, and is requesting youth help to distribute advertisement in theneighborhood. j. Joe Todd (Building & Grounds) Date for work day to be announced. Plan to clean up back yard of 1260 & place some fine rock there. Need dump truck West wall in nursery has been repaired. Scott reported that hot water & a new sink have been installed in the nursery & hot water to the cry room bathroom. k. Carl Wheeler (Worship) Absent. l. Roger Hamm (Children's Ministry) The Nursery update is coming well. New tables & chairs are here for 2 yrs-3rd grade, plus children's worship room. There are future plans for new tables & chairs for 4th-6th grade classes. A new summer VBS schedule entitled Metamorphosis (June 6-August 20 Wed. eve.) was handed out. 3. Youth Minister - Clete Ross & wife are coming April 7th on a 6:05 flight from Dallas to KCI at 7:55 am. An Agenda needs to be planned. Several suggestions were made for his time here and meeting with kids and parents. Included was a time for Clete to speak some on Sunday morning after Evan's lesson. They are to leave KCI at 5:55 pm. Sun Eve. 4. Other Items -David Carriger announced that LeAnn Valerius has interest in serving as a possible summer intern for our girls this Summer, and Scott smith repoted possibly Brian Bell will help with the boys. He sent out a letter to high school students & parents about Mark Barone coming March 25 and April 22. Ron Bruening is thinking of organizing a once a month men's luncheon. He saw Mike Wyatt and enjoyed a good visit. Jerry Myers - We need to help find a good job for Mike Farrar. Rex Allen - Helen Owens called this evening after her doctors appointment. He feels she has a liver disease, possibly hepatitis. More tests on Tue. of next week. Please pray for her. Scott Smith visited Robert Goodrich, found out they worshipped with relatives in Cal. Gary Souder - read a letter from the local neighborhood historical group about our property status. Roger Hamm - What do we want to do about our Jr. High class. They are meeting by themselves now. Ed & Sandy McKinley are the current teachers. They would step down, if someone better wanted to teach and energize them. 5. Prayer Requests - Helen Owens, Lucille Rosenlund, Mike Farrar & family, Mike & Jamie Wyatt, Scott Smith Family, the Clete Ross family, Burdan family, Tommy Thompson and others.
Closing Prayer - Joe Todd

Seven Days to Live

When some celebrity dies—such as Princess Diana or Anna Nicole Smith—filmmakers often scramble to put together a documentary that examines the last hours or days of that person's life.

What if you knew you had only one week to live? What actions, what priorities, would be captured on film?

Passion Week—the last week of Jesus' life, before he faced a criminal's execution on a cross—was an extraordinary week. Jesus knew he was going to die in seven days. He knew it would be an excruciatingly painful death. But there's much we can learn from what Jesus taught and from how he acted during that agonizing week.

Beginning Sunday in our YP/College Class we will examine the Events Leading Up to the Crucifixion of Jesus. We will not just look at the events, but look at the emotional side of Jesus and His followers.

Please join us for the study beginning next Sunday at 9:15 a.m.

March Madness

Who are you picking to go to the final four? I’ve got Georgetown, Kansas, Florida and Ohio State. I’m picking Georgetown and KU in the final.

Some of my upset picks are: Butler beating Maryland. I’ve got Vanderbilt beating Washington State. Creighton beating Nevada. And I’ve got Tennessee beating Virginia. (Just for you mom).
On the Women's side.......I hope Oklahoma can make a run at the championship, but watch out for the Duke Ladies!

Disappointment

One of the great benefits I received from playing basketball was the opportunity to learn to deal with disappointment. You work all season long, full of hope that the work you put in will pay off and allow you to play for the championship at the end of the year.

But guess what happens? The year doesn’t turnout like you expected. Maybe injuries or the team just didn’t gel like you thought it would. Instead of playing for the championship you have a long frustrating season.

Disappointment is written all over your face. Frustrated, because of all the hard work and long hours you gave to become the very best that you could.

Disappointment can cause us to lose confidence in God's ability to care for us, making us afraid to try again. Why do it again, I’m going to fail.

A good friend of mine always says that the disappointment that we experience today prepares us for greater opportunities later in life. God gives us those difficult times to prepare us for future success.

How Shall the Young Secure Their Hearts

My years at York College were very special and very faith building. When you leave the house after 18 years with your mother and father teaching you all about life and the “ups and downs” that take place in the world, I’m glad I decided to take the 8 hour trip from Broken Arrow to the “cold tundra” of York, Nebraska.

The people at York are the very best. Their dedication to the college is unbelievable. Their desire to touch the lives of young adults is even more amazing.

Being a father of two boys, one chose to attend Oklahoma Christian University three years ago and my senior in high school this year will be making the trip to the east coast to attend SUNY-FIT in New York City.

As a dad, you worry if you have taught them everything they need to know. Not just how to make it in this competitive world but how to be a faithful Christian in a world that is heartless and consumed with so much negative influence

As a dad, you desire so much more for your kids than what you had. Not just the aspect of a good job, but the Christian opportunities that will arise. There is no doubt that Brian has experienced many Christian opportunities at OC. With a university and college centered on Christ, he has experienced a great environment to grow his faith.

But with Craig, it will be different. One that I’m a little envious of. He will be in a definite mission field but will have a great opportunity to minister to so many different types of people. He will be attending church where Jeff and Santhi attend in New York City. He will be able to worship with others that live in a city with millions outside their door that need Christ in their daily lives. Talk about vocational ministry!

My daily prayers have started for Craig. Not just Craig, but for all our Central seniors who will be leaving their mom’s and dad’s in less than three months and beginning their journey of faith that we pray will lead them to a life of service and fulfillment throughout the world.

The Missional Church (Part 5)

“Missional spirituality requires that God’s people be captured by His heart for people, that our hearts, be broken for what breaks His, that we rejoice in what brings Him joy (Luke 15)”

“Churches that understand the realities of the present future are shifting the target of ministry efforts from church activities to community transformation”

The Present Future
Reggie McNeal
2003

The Trouble with Traditions (Continued)

The One-Hour Service

This has almost become a sacred cow. I read in the Bible that Paul preached past midnight. I don’t think they met at 11:00 p.m. We honor this tradition for the most part, but we need to realize it’s not a matter of scripture.

We do this more as a convenience. Many times we could use more preaching and teaching time as a body. Do we give our visitors a true sense of what the church is all about during a sixty-minute service?

I encourage all of us to leave our watches at home this Sunday and really concentrate on our praise and worship to our Heavenly Father.

Lord, Make Me An Instrument of Your Peace

Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

AMEN

st. francis of assisi - 13th century

A Long Week

The past week has been a busy one for me. It started with getting the stomach flu and being down for a couple of days. Then it was sub-state basketball where the OCHS Girls lost in the finals in overtime. Then a friend of ours (adopted grandparents of Brian) passed away in Omaha. It has been a blur and will continue this week before finally slowing down, I hope, after OC Spring Sing this weekend.

Busyness is definitely the problem I deal with daily. The problem is my job demands my attendance at evening activities or meetings. When the Super is gone, everyone takes notice. And because of this, it prevents me from some of my favorite things: being with my family and being with my church family. Living 50 minutes from Church is tough when meetings or emergencies arise.

I would appreciate your prayers this week.

Being An Influence

My college experience was fantastic. I had the opportunity to attend a Church of Christ school for my Associate Degree (York College); a Catholic University for my Bachelor Degree (Newman University); and a Lutheran University for my Master’s Degree (Concordia University). My post-Master’s work has been primarily at State Universities in Kansas. What I enjoyed most about my experiences is the relationships I built with people.

The discussions that I had with professors and students about my beliefs and the Bible were ones that I will never forget. I also became more aware of the differences of people and the importance that their religion has on their way of life.

I will never forget Debbie telling her boss, when she worked at Newman University in the business office, that he had something dirty on his forehead. It was Ash Wednesday. Her boss just simply said, “Debbie you’ve got a lot to learn about the Catholic religion”. What a learning experience it was. It was one that helped Debbie and I to grow even stronger in our faith as we reached out to a community of believers, but of a different religious belief. Still today many of those good people are still our close friends.

You never know what type of influence you can have and where it might be. For Debbie and me, our mission field was a 2,000 student Catholic University in the heart of Wichita.

Where is yours?

Knowing God's Will

Knowing God's Will is the Key to Everything!Christ taught us that knowing God's will and living in obedience to that will is the key to it all!

God is the potter; we are the clay. God keeps us spinning on His potter's wheel, shaping and reshaping us as He bathes our lives in tears to make us more Christ-like so He can use us for His will.

Surrender daily. Keep your clay moist through daily prayer - prayer that's in accordance to His will.

Philippians 2:13 for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.

John 15:5 "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me, and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing.

Matthew 6:33 "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.

Elder/Deacon Meeting Minutes (February 21)

Central Church of Christ
Elder-Deacon Meeting Minutes
February 21, 2007

Scripture (David Carriger)

Opening Prayer (Ed McKinley)

Treasurer Report (Ed McCoy)
If you give a weekly or yearly cash contribution to the church and wish to include them as itemized deductions on taxes you will need to get a letter from Ed McCoy at the end of the year because of the new IRS regulations. See Ed for more information.

Review of January Minutes

Agenda Items:

1. Deacons Meeting Report

Renovation of bathroom in the basement of the house was discussed. Looking at cost.

Several other items were discussed under the ministry reports.

2. Ministry Reports

Evan Burdan (Involvement/Preaching)
Discussed his next two Sunday morning series. March-“The Family Under Attack” April-“What We Believe”. Next Deacon’s Meeting: March 4 at 4:30 p.m.

Kurt Johnston (Multi-Media)
Wireless microphones are working well. Trying to digitally record messages on Sunday. Looking at some options.

Ed McKinley (Budget)
Gave a budget update. Encouraged everyone to list items purchased so we can locate the right line item for the budget. Beginning a 5-year budget plan.

Bryan Phillips (Finance)
Recommended to continue with a CD on building fund. A safe return at this time on investment.

Steve Shatto (Senior Saints)

Scott Smith (Youth)
Need devotional sponsors on Sunday evenings after Hearthstone. Need sponsor for the Oklahoma Christian trip. Need sponsor for York College High School Days trip. Youth Minister Search discussed. Summer Interns discussed. Mission trip discussed.

Joe Todd (Buildings and Grounds)
Please check doors before leaving the building. Waterline to nursery installed. Sink and hot water heater purchased. Looking at a Spring Cleanup Day.

Carl Wheeler (Worship)
Will be looking at Sunday night speakers for March and April. Evan will write March and April Bulletin articles.

Roger Hamm (Children’s Ministry)
Teacher recruitment went well. VBS theme is Metamorphosis. Fall quarter will have some class splits because of large groups. Looking at a pre-teen ministry program. The upgrades to nursery exciting.

3. Preaching Plans/Direction: Evan Burdan will continue to preach on Sunday mornings. Carl is seeking individuals for Sunday evenings.

4. Calendar Items

5. Other Items:

Bill Carriger gave update on Tallgrass. Would like to see a microcamp day for little ones this spring.

Gary gave update on the house at the property. Heater not working. New locks installed. Gary met a youth minister candidate in Abilene last weekend. Appreciate Joe Todd picking people up for church.

Jerry gave an update on those sick and hurting.

8. Prayer Requests

Closing Prayer (Bryan Phillips)

Adjourned at: 9:10 p.m.

Elders Meeting (February 21, 2007)

All Elders were present.

Opening Prayer led by Roger.

Discussion of Mark Barone’s presentation to the Central teens and parents. Dates will be forthcoming with topic information.

Youth Minister Search continues. A couple of prospects were discussed.

We appreciate Evan’s continued Sunday morning messages. Future studies will include; The Family Under Attack and Core Teachings of the Church: What makes us unique.

Heating problems in the house on the Burlingame property discussed. New locks placed on doors.

Gary and Jerry discussed their worship experiences this past Sunday in Abilene and San Diego.

Discussion of hurting families and individuals.

Jerry led our closing prayer.

The Future of the Church

The following blog came from Mike Cope yesterday.

I’ve been thinking about writing a series called “The Future of Churches of Christ.” Whether I’ll get around to that or not — who knows? Maybe I can get Doug Foster to let me do a blog interview. His guess is probably much better than mine.

I remember two articles we had in Wineskins in the ’90s. One was by Joe Beam — one of the most requested articles we ever had. Joe talked about the growing, yet-unnamed divide in the denomination (he may not have used that language) between the “progressives” and the “conservatives.” Let’s pause here to all say we hate labels. Of course we do. But you still need some way to describe what you’re talking about. But, he said, there is also a declining middle group that doesn’t yet know which way it is leaning.

Another article — actually a series, as I recall — was by Randy Harris. He was asking if the future for Churches of Christ is hopeful. His answers, in true Randy style, were “no,” “yes,” and “maybe.”

Today the picture is fuzzier. There is still an uneasiness between many churches over issues like, “Are we the only ones faithful to God?” For some, the answer is “yes.” Others of us can’t even fathom asking the question.

But there are other ways in which diversity is manifesting itself, too. Such as these:
Are the leaders reading scripture as fundamentalists or not? (I personally think this will, fifty years from now, wind up having been the most significant question.)

How does the church understand the kingdom of God?

What does it see as its purpose?

How important are the traditions of the church in a rapidly changing world? (Do traditions hold back or do they anchor?)

We’ll look quite different in twenty years. I’m pretty sure of that. Already — and this is such a small example — people who print the official C of C directory are having to figure out how they indicate that a church considers itself a part of Churches of Christ but uses instrumental music (Richland Hills, Farmer’s Branch, . . . ).

And I purposefully didn’t include style of music as one of the central defining questions!

Should be interesting times ahead.

His Amazing Grace

Here's some food for thought. This is taken from Rhonda Lowry whose husband is the President of Lipscomb University. She is talking about grace. And within that huge topic she made this application:

We can't control grace, so we tend to stay away from it. Why don't we just stop and let it come to us?

God works out of our nothingness. Think about some times when this was the case. Three empty wombs. Nothingness. Out of the nothingness of Sarah's womb God brought his beloved nation. Out of Elizabeth's nothingness he brought the one who would prepare this nation for their Messiah. And his greatest work of all came from the virgin womb of Mary. It's all about Him. Not anything they did.

Silence and solitude are what brings us closer to God. Not our busyness for Him or our words to Him. It comes by listening to Him and spending time with Him. No Bible, no journal or pen. Just a question or two to ask Him, and then sit and listen and wait.

The way we see grace is not to love the gift but the giver. Being absolutely in love with Jesus Christ. Abiding in Him and being continually mindful of His presence in our daily ordinary lives.

Me God?

When I was a high school principal, I worked with a student for three years that I never ever could reach. He was always in some type of trouble and after several counseling sessions and disciplinary hearings he finally decided to drop out. He didn’t have much of a home life and wouldn’t accept any help that we were providing as a school.

I remember on one occasion during that three-year period, Debbie met his grandmother in the grocery store one night and asked how he was doing. The grandmother said that her grandson made the following comment to her about our relationship as student and principal, “I really think me and Mr. Carriger have a religious problem. He thinks he’s God and I don’t think he is.” I have always remembered that comment.

I saw the following comment just recently by Anne Lamott: “The biggest difference between you and God is that God doesn’t think he’s you.”

Sometimes we think we know more than God.
Sometimes we think we have all the answers.
Sometimes our body language even displays that we feel we are better than others.
Sometimes we think we are God.

When these times occur, we are usually beaten down and humbled and reminded that God is in control. God is the one that gives and takes away.

I know I don’t want God’s job. Its tough enough being a husband, father, superintendent, elder and Christian. I have a hard enough time just taking care of those responsibilities.

I need to understand the feelings of others and walk in humility as Christ describes in Philippians 2. A struggle for a selfish person.

“Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father”

Ezra's Resolutions

Ezra is a man that is often overlooked when the great leaders or heroes of the Bible are listed and studied. But looking over his life and his accomplishments, he played a huge part in keeping the remnant of God’s people faithful so Jesus the Messiah could be born in the fullness of time.

Ezra lived during the restoration period when the Israelites were allowed to return to Jerusalem after 70 years of captivity in Babylon. After the temple was rebuilt, Ezra went up to Jerusalem and led a spiritual renewal among the Jews that returned from the captivity. He brought them back from the sin of idolatry and the Israelites never again fell into idolatry as a nation.

Ezra’s great success came as a result of his resolutions. This is a time of resolutions. The College-Young Professional class this month is examining the resolutions we need to have, so we can grow in Christ during 2007. I believe Ezra was a great example of a man that made resolutions.

I see three goals that he adopted that can help us in our spiritual journey for the new year.

Ezra 7: 9-10

Ezra made what I call heart goals.

Ezra had set his heart. Resolutions and goals usually fail because they are not heart goals.

Here are the resolutions:

1. Ezra set his heart to study the law of the Lord

Ezra saw the importance of God’s word to help guide him in the spiritual ways not only for him but also for his people of Israel.

How about us? How much time have you devoted to the study of God’s Word so far this year? Not too late to begin now. Begin by finding ways to enhance your knowledge of God’s word. Get into the word daily and look for those passages that will help you as it helped Ezra.

2. Ezra set his heart to practice God’s Law

Not only did Ezra study, he put it in to practice. Difficult to be that committed at times, but what better people we would be for God, our families and those we come into contact with on a daily basis if we practiced the Words of God.

3. Ezra set his heart to teach God’s Law

Ezra knew he had a calling. To teach God’s law to the Israelite nation. We also have a calling a great commission to preach and to teach.

One of the goals the eldership set for 2007 was to reclaim those that have left the body. Building relationships not only with each other but also through Christ. God’s word is powerful and we have the obligation to teach his word at every single opportunity that we might have.

If each of us would set these 3 goals in our hearts in 2007, it would renew our spiritual lives, bring renewal to this body here at Central, and lead us to reclaim and convert those outside of Christ.

What is stopping us?

For me, sometimes fear, doubt, busyness, selfishness.

But God doesn’t want us to have fears, doubts, and selfishness. He wants us to have faith, hope and trust in him. He wants us to place others above ourselves. We can do that tonight. We can make the commitment that during 2007 I am going to try my very best with God’s help to live for Him and get into His word and study, practice and reach out to those outside of Christ.

God's Valentine Gift

God’s Valentine Gift

God’s Valentine gift of love to us
Was not a bunch of flowers;
It wasn’t candy, or a book
To while away the hours.

His gift was to become a man,
So He could freely give
His sacrificial love for us,
So you and I could live.

He gave us sweet salvation,
and instruction, good and true--
To love our friends and enemies
And love our Savior, too.

So as we give our Valentines,
Let’s thank our Lord and King;
The reason we have love to give
Is that He gave everything.

By Joanna Fuchs

Here Is My Heart

The words of a new song that Carl led Sunday evening have been on my mind the past couple of days.

“Here is my heart Lord, I lay it open, search every corner, cleanse every part.
Here is my heart Lord, yielded and broken.
Beautiful Lord, come and restore, here is my heart.”

God definitely wants our hearts.

Beautiful words. Sometimes these words are difficult to sing, because of the sin in our lives. He wants our hearts to be pure and open for his work in our lives.

Sometimes the words of a new song are fresh and can challenge us in our relationship with our Master!

The New Central Church Library

Just think of the books and resources that line your shelves at home. Now consider how they might affect, inspire, comfort or teach others if they were organized and housed in a church library. Rob and Sharon Easterling have taken on the task of a new library ministry at Central. Please bring your donations to the church library. Books, CD's, computer software and/or videos or DVDs should be in line with the church's spiritual goals, be up to date and be in good condition. Donations collected by February 14 will be ready for check out at the library's grand opening in March. If anyone is interested in helping with the library ministry, contact Rob and Sharon Easterling.

Check out the web site at: www.librarything.com/catalog/central

Order of Worship

Order of Worship
Sunday, February 11, 2007

Welcome

Scripture: Isaiah 6:1-3

144 O Worship the King

153 Come, Let Us Worship and Bow Down

66 Doxology

77 Glorify Thy Name

Prayer:

Scripture: John 12:23-34

271 Son of Man

324 Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed (Verse 1 and 4)

Lords Supper

Contribution

870 Beyond This Land of Parting

Message Evan Burdan

Invitation 635 Freely, Freely

Announcements

410 He Leadeth Me (Verse 1 Only)

Closing Prayer

Elders Meeting Minutes

Elders Meeting Minutes
February 7, 2007

All Elders Present

Elders/Deacons Meeting will be moved to Thursday, February 22 at 7:00 p.m.

Mark Barone from Christian Family Services will be at Central to make presentations on the following Sunday evenings: March 25 (Parents/Teens), April 22 (Teens Only). Encourage all our parents and teens to participate.

Youth Minister Search was discussed.

Discussion on our next Sunday evening message series after the "David" series.

Medical Mission Trip to Guyana was discussed.

Prayer for hurting members led by Jerry Myers.

A Friendly Church?

Common Barriers to Growth

Why some congregations don’t grow:

1. Not bringing friends to church. We pray, we ask, we pressure, we motivate, we emphasize the importance but members (including myself) still do not bring friends to church. For many, it is understood that the services are not designed for unbelievers or the people they know from work. Perhaps on occasion we need to offer at least one service designed with our un-churched friends in mind.

2. Clinging to tradition. Traditions are actually founded and rooted in success. Something becomes a tradition because it works. Because it works, we repeat it over and over again. Perhaps we understand that our purpose will never change but our methodology will be ever changing. We may need to do one of three things: Reaffirm it, Refine it, or Replace it.

3. Trying to appeal to everyone. We can’t! It just won’t work. We listen to the radio stations we enjoy. We more often listen to those stations that play the songs we like. Maybe we should define our target (the lost), and then do everything we can to hit that target with the Gospel.

4. Being program-oriented rather than process-oriented. Having many programs may look impressive, but unless there is a specific plan for helping members grow, its easy to just end up attending classes. Maybe we should develop a process that stays with people for life and helps each mature spiritually.

5. Fearing growth will ruin fellowship. Some fight growth because of fear. We need to find ways through smaller groups to grow larger as a church while growing smaller at the same time. This may be with Bible classes, small groups or ministry groups.

Change

Making changes in your life requires daily attention. Trusting in our own power, we easily get discouraged and accept failure. Each day surrender your will to God’s, acknowledge the commitment you made, and allow His Spirit to fill you. If you falter, don’t give up. Confess your failure to God and resolve to grow in this area of your life. Begin again where you are, not looking back but pressing on “toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). Rely on God for the strength to follow through, and you can experience victory!

"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God" (Romans 12:2)

Super Bowl

GO BEARS!

Unique Worship Service

"U2-charist": Bono moves in mysterious ways

For Anglicans who still haven't found what they're looking for, the Church of England is staging its first "U2-charist" communion service -- replacing hymns with hit songs by the Irish supergroup.

"Rock music can be a vehicle of immense spirituality," said Bishop of Grantham Timothy Ellis, announcing plans for the unique service in the central English town of Lincoln in May.

A live band is to play U2 classics like "Beautiful Day" and "Mysterious Ways" with special singalong lyrics displayed on a giant screen. Seating for the 500-strong congregation is to be re-arranged so everyone can dance and wave their hands.

The service is to focus on the Millennium development goals -- U2's lead singer Bono is a leading promoter of the targets to alleviate world poverty.

The Joy of the Redeemed

Ever get tired of the rat race we live in? Maybe it’s the job that you feel is at a dead end.

Maybe it’s a family situation, that you have been working on for some time. Whatever you do it just doesn’t get any better.

Or maybe it’s the physical problems you are experiencing in your life. The doctors report that indicates some problems that need to be taken care of.

This world gives us bad news everyday.

From newspapers, web-mail, tv, radio, even our friends and family. We just can’t escape it.

Or can we…

About ten years ago Isaiah 35 was introduced to me in a very special way by a very special friend. It talks about the Joy of the Redeemed! When I feel the problems of this world caving in I look to these verses:

Isaiah 35

The desert and the parched land will be glad;
the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.
Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom;
it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy.
The glory of Lebanon will be given to it,
the splendor of Carmel and Sharon;
they will see the glory of the LORD,
the splendor of our God.
Strengthen the feeble hands,
steady the knees that give way;
say to those with fearful hearts,
"Be strong, do not fear;
your God will come,
he will come with vengeance;
with divine retribution he will come to save you.
"Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped.
Then will the lame leap like a deer,
and the mute tongue shout for joy.
Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert.
The burning sand will become a pool,
the thirsty ground bubbling springs.
In the haunts where jackals once lay,
grass and reeds and papyrus will grow.
And a highway will be there;
it will be called the Way of Holiness.
The unclean will not journey on it;
it will be for those who walk in that Way;
wicked fools will not go about on it.
No lion will be there,
nor will any ferocious beast get up on it;
they will not be found there.
But only the redeemed will walk there,
and the ransomed of the LORD will return.
They will enter Zion with singing;
everlasting joy will crown their heads.
Gladness and joy will overtake them,
and sorrow and sighing will flee away.

I long for that place.

I long for that special place of rest.

You still can experience the Joy of the Redeemed!

Ramblings of a Cold, Chilled Man

As many of you know, I can’t stand cold, snow, or ice. Growing up in San Diego spoiled me. Debbie and I often talk about when my Kansas educational working years (10 years to go) are over, moving to the south or southwest (sorry Evan not Texas) parts of the United States where it is warmer.

I am looking forward to those winters where a cold day is around 60 degrees, where I can wear shorts 10 months out of the year. When I don’t have to worry about buses in ditches; getting chewed out by parents for not calling school off; will the school buildings have heat, and if every teacher, staff member or high school student driving to school will get there safely. I won’t miss it at all.

But if God leads Debbie and I south (except for Texas) we won’t retire. There is so much we want to do. I would like to own a donut shop. I want to cook donuts each morning at 5:00 a.m. I get up early anyway. What better way to start a day than to cook donuts to happy hungry people? I would also like to teach part-time at the university level teaching future teachers what education is really all about. Debbie has many things she would like to do.

Fulltime rtirement, I don’t believe, will ever be an option for us. We have always been on the go and just can’t picture ourselves doing nothing.

But what really bothers me is when Christians retire from fulltime service to God. As a middle-ager getting closer to AARP, I now can speak on a subject that has bothered me for years. Why do so many Christians, when they reach those golden years when they should have more time than ever for church work, decide to retire permanently from the work of the church?

I want to commend so many of our Central members that have reached those years that are still involved in so many ministry programs. We have senior saints that are involved and leading in so many good works: personal evangelism, WBS, MOPS, VBS, Bible Class teachers, Monday for the Master, mission trips, and a variety of other great outreach programs. What better example can you ever be for those younger to see you actively taking a part in the daily work of the church.

Remember retirement is never an option in the Lord’s Church. I can’t even find it in scripture.

We Can't Do MegaChurch Anymore

Growing up in the youth group at the "L Street Church" in San Diego was an awesome experience. Great youth group, activities galore, youth rallies, huge bus ministry, 400 in worship.

When we moved to Broken Arrow, Oklahoma we became members at the BA church that averaged 850 on Sunday morning. What a great family to be a part of.

But, just down the road in Tulsa was a church that was "on fire" with a huge bus ministry and a charismatic minister. The Garnett Road Church of Christ was busting at the seams. 2,000 in worship, hundreds of buses, hosting the Tulsa Workshop with 20,000 people at the Fair Grounds each spring break. It was an exciting time to be a member of the Church of Christ in Tulsa. The following article in Christianity Today talks about the decline of the Garnett Church. It’s an excellent article that should make all leaders rethink the importance of ministry and people….

http://www.christianitytoday.com/le/2007/001/1.49.html

Great Weekend at Central

What a great weekend we had at Central. The Youth Rally was a great success. Yesterday our young men led us in worship as Evan encouraged us to rid our lives of those "secret sins".

So many I would like to thank for making our rally a success:

Scott and Angie
Kurt
Debbie
Ruthann
Josh
Evan
Steve
Heather
The Central Teens
All those bringing cookies and drinks

Our following speakers:
Mitch
Toby
Bruce
Allisson
Jenna

Others:
New Reign
Oklahoma Christian
York College
ACU

and the youth groups and sponsors from Northside in Wichita, Hutchinson, Emporia, and Salina.

We hope to make this an annual event.

Youth Rally Saturday

Please be praying for our winter rally tomorrow. Mitch Wilburn, New Reign and several others will challenge our kids to look at those secret thoughts and sins that often entangle our lives.

State of the Union

Did you watch the State of the Union address last night? Thought both political parties showed a real genuine since of respect. About time. Hopefully they will work together to get something done to help the people of the United States and bring our troops home from the Middle East. Pray for our leaders today!

Dreams

Ever watch someone that is waiting for something?

Ever have to watch someone that is anticipating something that they think will never occur?

Ever watch someone that is anticipating something so much that the only thing they have on their mind is the big event that will occur any day?

Watching Craig over the past few months has been an up and down journey. Craig has had a dream that Debbie and I have supported and prayed about and watched him deal with for several months.

Craig is my dreamer. He is a lot like me. He loves to travel. He loves cultures. He loves new experiences. He loves new adventures. He doesn’t like the ordinary.

Craig has had a dream to major in fashion merchandising for a few years. He has always been intrigued with styles and what he felt he could contribute to the fashion industry.

With that dream, he began his journey to find a college where he could receive a degree and gain valuable internships and experience.

We, as a family, looked at hundreds of possibilities. Coast to coast. After much prayer, Craig decided to “go for it” and find the best possible place where the fashion industry is at its highest, New York City.

Last October, Craig decided to apply to the University of New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan.

The past four months we have seen Craig agonize, because of the wait and emotional rollercoaster, because it was so important to him.

Yesterday at 9:15 a.m., Craig burst into my office and gave me the biggest hug I have ever had as the words came out that, “Dad, I made it. I was accepted to FIT”. The tears began to fall very quickly as God blessed Craig with acceptance into this great institution of higher learning.

Waiting is difficult but it makes us stronger and more trusting in our Heavenly Father. During the past few months, we talked about trusting God and the plan God has for Craig’s life.

After Craig left my office to go tell Debbie, I thanked God for this special blessing.

Dreams are so important. God’s leading and direction is essential to becoming what He wants us to be.

Craig, may God lead you to New York City to become a vital part of His church and a positive light for the fashion industry in the years to come.

Remember, God will lead you if you trust in Him!

Central Youth Rally

Central Church of Christ
Youth Ministries
Topeka, Kansas

Winter Rally 07
January 27, 2007
Noon-6:00 p.m.

“My Secret”

Who are you when no one’s looking? What secret are you holding in that nobody will ever know? What are the things you have tried to stuff way down deep….but it still seems to linger somewhere right under your skin? We all have them. Or do they have us?

The Central Church of Christ Youth Ministries would like to invite you and your youth group to our Winter Youth Rally on Saturday, January 27, from noon to 6:00 p.m. at the Central Church of Christ in Topeka, Kansas.

The theme for the 2007 rally is “My Secret”. Looking at those secret sins in our daily lives that keep us from a true relationship with our Heavenly Father.

We are looking forward to a great day and outstanding classes, singing and fellowship.

Our keynote speaker is Mitch Wilburn from the Park Plaza Church of Christ in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Several of us have heard Mitch at Youth in Action, Winterfest and Camp Zenith.

We have breakout sessions led by Bruce Dimmick (Salina), Evan Burdan (Central), Toby Levering (Wichita), Allison Carroll (Burelson, Texas) and Jenna Compton (Amarillo, Texas).

Singing will be led by Josh Yoho from Central.

A concert will be provided by New Reign from Oklahoma Christian University.

Lunch (pizza) will be provided at noon.

Please contact us if you have any questions.

We would appreciate an RSVP so we can get an accurate lunch count. Please RSVP at 785-233-6157 or e-mail at: centcofc@swbell.net

We look forward to a great day of fun and fellowship!

See you on the 27th.

Small Groups

A few years ago Debbie and I were invited to join a group of young adults on Sunday mornings for Bible study and fellowship. The Young Professional/College Class invited us to begin teaching their class when Jeff and Santhi moved to New York City. It has been a blessing for us to be a part of this group as we have studied and fellowshipped with this great group of young adults.

The highlight of each month is our third Sunday small group fellowship and devotional. We have been invited to so many members’ homes for evenings of spiritual feasts as well as some great food and fellowship.

Jesus modeled to us something we all need ~ loving relationships with each other. He selected twelve men to whom He entrusted His vision, and scripture tells us those twelve men turned the known world upside down. This is our model of the church’s first SMALL Group.

SMALL Groups connect people most naturally with others who have similar interests and passions. SMALL Groups can often meet individual’s needs so we can grow and mature in Christ.

May God continue to bless this group as we pursue our personal relationship with Him and with others.

Maintenance or Mission?

This was was written by Harold Percy. It should generate some great dialogue. The consensus is that it does a pretty good job of describing the transition (and the pain brought on by such a transition) that churches are experiencing at the moment:

MAINTENANCE OR MISSION?

1. In measuring the effectiveness, the maintenance congregation asks, “How many pastoral visits are being made? The mission congregation asks, “How many disciples are being made?”

2. When contemplating some form of change, the maintenance congregation says, “If this proves upsetting to any of our members, we won’t do it.” The mission congregation says, “If this will help us reach someone on the outside, we will take the risk and do it.”

3. When thinking about change, the majority of members in a maintenance congregation ask, “How will this affect me?” The majority of members in the mission congregation ask, “Will this increase our ability to reach those outside?”

4. When thinking of its vision for ministry, the maintenance congregation says, “We have to be faithful to our past.” The mission congregation says, “We have to be faithful to our future.”

5. The minister in the maintenance congregation says to the newcomer, “I’d like to introduce you to some of our members.” In the mission congregation the members say, “We’d like to introduce you to our minister.”

6. When confronted with a legitimate pastoral concern, the elder in the maintenance congregation asks, “How can I meet this need?” The elder in the mission congregation asks, “How can this need be met?”

7. The maintenance congregation seeks to avoid conflict at any cost (but rarely succeeds). The mission congregation understands that conflict is the price of progress, and is willing to pay the price. It understands that it cannot take everyone with it. This causes some grief, but it does not keep it from doing what needs to be done.

8. The leadership style in the maintenance congregation is primarily managerial, where leaders try to keep everything in order and running smoothly. The leadership style in a mission congregation is primarily transformational, casting a vision of what can be, and marching off the map in order to bring the vision into reality.

9. The maintenance congregation is concerned with their congregation, its organizations and structure, its constitutions and committees. The mission congregation is concerned with the culture, with understanding how secular people think and what makes them tick. It tries to determine their needs and their points of accessibility to the Gospel.

10. When thinking about growth, the maintenance congregations asks, “How many Lutherans live within a twenty-minute drive of this church?” The mission congregation asks, “How many unchurched people live within a twenty-minute drive of this church?”

11. The maintenance congregation looks at the community and asks, “How can we get these people to support our congregation?” The mission congregation asks, “How can the Church support these people?”

12. The maintenance congregation thinks about how to save their congregation. The mission congregation thinks about how to reach the world.

The Missional Church (Part 4)

The following came from Mike Cope's blog, Minister for the Highland Church of Christ in Abilene, Texas. Interesting thoughts......

I spoke with two men.

One is unhappy at church. Some changes have him feeling uncomfortable. He just doesn’t like it. He doesn’t want to be so uncomfortable. He doesn’t care for the way the church is heading. He’s exploring other options.

The other has never been happier. He was lost and is now found. He was unemployed and through a ministry of the church has just been hired. He is pouring himself into outreach. He, with his broken, difficult past, has become an informal leader of the church. The shade of his skin, the level of his education, the type of home he was raised in — all are quite different than many others at the church. But he smiles and laughs as he talks about his new family. He grins as he introduces me to others as “my pastor.”

Both men matter. Both deserve pastoral care.

But if we continue to find our neighborhood, if we continue to join God in what he’s already doing in our city, then our faith community will look less and less like a gated community where access codes are required.

I’m afraid it won’t be comfortable. But it should be exciting.

A Prayer Request

A prayer request for today.....

Be praying for so many that are still without power from the ice storm that hit the mid-west this past weekend.

Be praying for those traveling on the highways the next few days. Especially our bus drivers bringing our kids to and from school on the country (gravel) roads. They are icy this morning.

Elders-Deacons Meeting Minutes (January 11, 2006)

Minutes of Elders -Deacons MeetingJanuary 11, 2007

Coordinating Elder: Rex Allen
Minutes Recorder: Bill Carriger
Scripture Reading: Phil. 2: 1-11
Opening Prayer: Rex Allen

Present: Rex Allen, Bill Carriger, David Carriger, Roger Hamm, Jerry Myers,Gary Souder, Ed Mcoy, Kurt Johnston, Ed Mc Kinley, Bryan Phillips, ScottSmith, Joe Todd, & Steve Toillion.

Opening reading - Prayer - Remarks - The 100th Anniversary of the Central Congregation will be in February 2009. We need to start making plans for an Anniversary Celebration soon.

Treasurer's Report - Ed McCoy reported assets of $187,134.54, with anaverage contribution of $ 6,766.14 per Sunday during 2006. It was decided to establish aseparate New Building Account, with Bryan Phillips in charge. There is currently $87,920.07 plus January 7th additions in the building fund. An additional $50,000 CD had been purchased. Comments from

Budget Presentation - This presentation went well, and hasbeen well received.

Review of December Minutes -

Deacons meeting report - No meeting

Youth Report - Scott Smith: 76+ surveys returned and are being compiled. Two youth minister resumes have been received. Youth Rally titled "My Secret"coming here Jan. 27. Mitch Wilburn from Tulsa will be the keynote speaker.Scott & Angie are planning an ice Skating youth trip to Crown Center in Kansas City on Sat. eve. Feb. 3. Thinking about starting and area wide C of C roller skate in the future. Talking about a guys class on Sunday night once a month when the Tabitha class meets.a boys class on Sun. 5 went to KYF. 21 went to YIA.

Old Business -

Building Committee Report = Steve Toillion is to make ashort report to the congregation at the close of the Jan. 14 worship assembly, starting atlast Feb. and bringing us to the present. He reported at least $3,000 would be needed to bring the house on Burlingame to a more useful condition. (Replace bathtub, repair some drywall and painting). It could be fixed up and used by a youth Minister (rent free). It was decided to move forward with repairs. Dean Lonard has mowed the property, picked up some brush, & replaced thefront door lock.

Benevolence - No Report

Tall Grass Report - Bill Carriger: An exciting year. Doors & windows are in. The heating & cooling will be in soon, with 11 heat pumps. The fireplace is complete and functional. Car siding ceiling is 30% complete in meeting room, and ceiling sheet rock is 40% complete in kitchen area. Seven from Emporia came & hang sheet rock this past Saturday. Several from Overland Park installed car siding on Tue. Jan. 2.

Building & Grounds: Joe Todd reported that auditorium ceiling repairs weremade today. Kathy & helpers are asking what can be done to repair theWest wall in the nursery. It was decided to ask for volunteers to furr out for a new wall. There is a question about space utilization. With 40 children in the 2-K class on Sun. a.m., a wall removal might be needed.

Bill Carriger suggested that the deacons walk through the building andinspect it, as if they were going to buy it. We could make repairs as needed. Jerry will ask the deacon of the month (Ron) to put it on this months agenda.

New Business -

Worship Speakers - Evan will be gone on Feb.4th. Weare contacting Mark Barone to come & present a Home Improvement Series he has prepared on that Sunday and some following Sunday evenings. The Elders are presenting 5 more lessons on David.

Individual Items –

Ed: Look at a 5 yr. Plan for budget purposes.One plan if we stay here and one plan if we move.

Gary - Bricks & Mortar things the deacons can work on. We need to think ofa location for a 100th anniversary celebration for 200 plus.

Scott - Bob Couch of Quivera Heights. Passed away. There is a Memorial Servicefor him this Sat.

Joe - Who has credit cards for the vans? One is in the office & JimCoulter has one.It was decided to obtain a card lock account at CCO on Burlingame Rd.Gary will contact.There is a difficulty for drivers to obtain fuel, with no card readilyavailable

Rex - We need volunteers to take communion to shut-ins. David Shinn & Jerry are working on it.

Prayer Concerns were listed.

Closing Prayer - Jerry Myers

Adjourned at 9:20

Do You Ever Just Quit?

Ever quit something?

As an educator, I have always encouraged our students, if they start an activity or sport, to complete the season. Every year we have a few students that decide three weeks into the activity season to quit because of playing time or they are just not having fun. We always visit with the kids, before they officially quit, to encourage them to stay and work through the difficulties or work harder to gain more playing time.

It’s so easy to quit. It doesn’t take much work or effort. I see kids quit all the time. I also see their parents quit. I see marriages end in divorce. I have seen kids decide to quit life. And I have seen parents quit on their kids.

It’s so easy to quit! Anything in life that is worthwhile takes work. It takes hard work. If you want good grades, it takes hours of study. If you want success on the basketball court, it takes hours of practice. If you want strong marriages, it takes understanding, forgiveness and communication.

It’s easy to quit. It’s easy to turn in the uniform. It’s easy to drop the class. It’s easy to file divorce papers. It’s easy to say no to God. When the job, task or situation gets tough, do you want to quit? Many do in our society of today. Many can't cope with the stress and demands of the job or task (or the attacks).

It takes hard work to be a Christian. It takes dedication, time, energy and a daily commitment that whatever happens, my God will help me through it. That means if I have an argument with my spouse, if the boss is upset with me, if I don’t make the traveling team, if a patron blasts me at a board meeting, whatever happens, God will help me through the situation.

Think what happens when we quit. When we say, “I’m done. I can’t do this any longer. I can’t make it through this situation again.” When we quit, we don't grow. We don't understand what it means to persevere and come out ahead because of the situation or stance we had to go through and we made it. The feeling is great when we can finally see through the clouds.

Never ever quit. It's too easy.

Hymn Thirteen (Unsung)

“A Land of No Arrest”
for D. W.

We too often confuse the meaty, muscle heart for
who we really are—as if that pulsing pusher holds
all intellect and emotion.
Hearts break. Hearts burn. Hearts arrest and grow ever poor
in pumping. Hearts attack the arteries and veins, rolled
up in our cycling blood ocean

bodies, cresting year after year on waves of thump-thump.
The heart is our core of flesh, a simple center
set to beat in our natal hour.
It is not our infinite soul set to jump
this trifling world we love too much. We’ll enter
forever with a new power,

greater than any red twitching mass can churn.
The celestial shore and proverbial gates and streets
will welcome us, friend.
I think we’ll chuckle, knowing it is our turn
to leave back old hearts no longer keeping a beat,blood-washed, done with sin.

Michael P. Carriger

More Heroes of Faith (Part 2)

I gave you my list of Elders that have influenced me throughout the years, how about ministers?

Ministry is a very lonely place at times. They serve Christians who, many times, take advantage of them in several different ways. They have to always look in control even when doubt and frustration enter in.

I have appreciated some great men that have challenged and shared God’s Word with me throughout the years.

Men like Kent Hall, Brian Anderson, Bob Lewis, Judge Morris, Lee Peters, Clifford Payne, Pat Peck, Curtis Manor and Bob Anderson who spoke the Truth Sunday after Sunday.

I pray that our Christian universities will produce some great Bible Teachers/Ministers for the Lord’s Body. I also pray that we might continue to lift them up in prayer.

Thank you Evan for serving and giving your time and energy as you deliver God’s words to us each Sunday. You challenge us and encourage us to be the servants that we need to be each day.

Elders Meeting Minutes (January 3, 2007)

Present - All Elders
Presiding - Rex Allen
Scripture Reading - Phil. 1: 1-11
Opening Prayer - David Carriger

Elders-Deacons meeting change - This meeting will be changed to Thursday , January 11, 2007 at 7:00 P.M.

Communion for shut-ins - Jerry reported that David Shinn was looking for someone
to help him at Hearthstone, and help is needed to provide communion for Ruth Price.

Budget presentation & new year information on Jan 7 - Ed McKinley will present the budget for 2007 after Evans lesson and Jerry will present the information from the Elders.

Sunday Evening Service speaker schedule- The Elders will present six lessons about David. Jan. 7 = Jerry Myers, Jan. 14 = Rex Allen, Jan. 21 = Bill> Carriger, Jan. 28 = 4th Sunday Praise. Feb. 4= Gary Souder, Feb. 11 = David Carriger, Feb. 18 = Roger Hamm. Feb. 25 = 4th Sunday Praise.

Youth Minister Survey Results - David reported about 100 survey sheets have been received so far, and will be tabulated soon. One youth minister applicant thus far.

Goal & Vision Plans - Our Commitment is to INVOLVEMENT. LOCAL EVANGELISM, and RECLAIMING THE STRAYING SHEEP!

Coming Youth Rally Jan. 27, "My Secret", speaker is Mitch Wilburn from Tulsa
hoping for 100 young people. Lunch will be provided. Invitations have been sent out.

Individual Items - Roger: We have a need for some new furniture & equipment needs for 3-4yr. & 5-K classrooms in our Bible School , totaling aproximately $1300. David suggested some possible vendors. Request approved.

Bill: reported on Tall Grass progress Heating & Air work nearly completed by Clouds, sheet rock work will start this Sat., & some more ceiling boards were installed on Tue. Electrical work is nearly completed.

Gary: reported that Kathy, Sherrill, & Sharon met Monday and discussed Bible School Attendance Problems. He suggested we use Mon. night for the Master as an elder visit time for this need. A list of students & parents will be prepared.

Rex: Mentioned that the Lubbock Christian College Chorus will perform at Southside in Lawrence on Tue. eve Jan. 9, at 7:00 P.M.

Prayer Concerns were discussed and Jerry Myers led a prayer for individuals and closing.
Adjourned at 10:20 p.m.

Order of Worship (January 7, 2007)

Order of Worship
Sunday, January 7, 2007

Welcome

8 Let Every Heart Rejoice and Sing

54 We Bring the Sacrifice of Praise

67 For the Beauty of the Earth

Prayer

287 There Is a Redeemer

Lords Supper

Contribution

Dismiss to Children’s Worship Time????

449 Thy Word

Message Evan Burdan

Invitation 116 God Will Make A Way (twice)

Budget Presentation: Ed McKinley

Elder Challenge: Jerry Myers

Announcements

508 A Wonderful Savior (Verse 1 Only)

Closing Prayer

Vision 2007

As a school leader vision is a serious ingredient in 21st Century education.

Have you ever experienced the power of vision…or lack thereof?

Have you dreamed about what the future might hold for you? How about for the Central Body?

T.E. Lawrence once said:"All men dream but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds awake to the day to find it was all vanity. But the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for the many act out their dreams with open eyes, to make it possible..."

Lynn Anderson wrote:“About 350 years ago a shipload of travelers landed on the northeast coast of America. The first year they established a town site. The next year they elected a town government. The third year the town government planned to build a road five miles westward into the wilderness.”In the fourth year the people tried to impeach their town government because they thought it was a waste of public funds to build a road five miles westward into a wilderness. Who needed to go there anyway? Here were people who had the vision to see three thousand miles across an ocean and overcome great hardships to get there. But in just a few years they were not able to see even five miles out of town. They had lost their pioneering vision.

With a clear vision of what we can become in Christ, no ocean of difficulty is too great. Without it, we rarely move beyond our current boundaries and situations.

Bill Hybels tells this story about vision:“It started like so many evenings. Mom and Dad at home and Jimmy playing after dinner. Mom and Dad were absorbed with jobs and did not notice the time. It was a full moon and some of the light came through the windows. Then Mom glanced at the clock. "Jimmy, it's time to go to bed. Go up now and I'll come and tuck you in later." Unlike usual, Jimmy went straight upstairs to his room. An hour or so later his mother came up to check if all was well, and to her astonishment found that her son was staring quietly out of his window at the moonlit scenery. "What are you doing, Jimmy?" "I'm looking at the moon, Mommy." "Well, it's time to go to bed now." As one reluctant boy settled down, he said, "Mommy, you know one day I'm going to walk on the moon." Who could have known that the boy in whom the dream was planted that night would survive a near fatal motorbike crash which broke almost every bone in his body, and would bring to fruition this dream 32 later when James Irwin stepped on the moon's surface, just one of the 12 representatives of the human race to have done so?

Finally, Bob Logan includes these thoughts: “Vision: the capacity to create a compelling picture of the desired state of affairs that inspires people to respond; that which is desirable, which could be, should be; that which is attainable. A godly vision is right for the times, right for the church, and right for the people. A godly vision promotes faith rather than fear. A godly vision motivates people to action. A godly vision requires risk-taking. A godly vision glorifies God, not people.”

As we begin a new year Central is on the brink of greatness for the cause of Christ in northeast Kansas.The vision that the leadership has developed will be communicated to the congregation in the next few weeks. It is a bold vision, to be sure…not for the faint-hearted or short-sighted. Indeed, the changes we will make in the coming months will cast the vision for this church for the next 5-10 years. But be warned. Even though Central has eagerly pioneered throughout its history, it would be all too tempting to sit back on our laurels, and, as the great European explorers and settlers, decide that arriving at a destination meant the need for no further exploration. Instead, let us begin again, charting a path into the unknown for the Central Church!

In your worship and quiet time this week, think about the idea of vision, and what great things have been done throughout history, when groups of people have come together for a common cause. Imagine the great number of people that have been blessed here over the decades and the countless others who will be touched in the future because of the changes we will be making. Seek God’s will this week for this massive endeavor and what role(s) He will have you play in order to achieve it.