The living church is constantly challenged to stay in tune with the culture it tries to reach. This can be a burden. How do we remain true to the Bible we’ve properly hallowed while adapting to new things which bring perpetual disturbance to the patterns of the long-term members? An immediate problem arises when the established church puts a learning freeze on the Bible and then maintains a protectionism of the thirty-five verses it prefers. This is dishonest and much of practicing Christianity is just that. This brings me to the 25 year olds and younger. Their bent is experiential. This factor is why American Idol has the viewers text their vote ultimately deciding the winner. Today’s younger generation wants in on the action. One may note cable news systems asking for your text in response to a question. Experiential. This is a huge challenge to the “sit still and be quiet” established church when truly wishing to draw today’s young. To them, church has no experience except one: pure boredom.
We churches need to get a grip on this dilemma because it isn’t the culture that needs to adjust. The church of the Bible is anything but dull. It is robust, surprising, mysterious, and often noisy. The church of Christ was the most happening place in the community. Such isn’t the case now. We have studied and organized ourselves into “the” most boring venue on our streets. Often a hives outbreak causes more community response. If you happen to be one who truly ponders how to bring life to your congregation, a start would be to bring life to your congregation. Put life into it. Quit focusing upon order so much and avail activity (experience) to your membership. God’s people are basically creative but some churches stifle the gifts within. Sit down, be quiet, and say amen is not the picture of the early church. Maybe we should change us.
Terry Rush
Monday, October 27, 2008
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Order of Worship
Welcome
Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)
Wonderful (2x)
162 All Hail the Power of Jesus name (vs 1,2,4)
You are Holy
Philippians 2:5-11 (from New Century Version)
221 Jesus, Name above All Names
222 There's Something About that Name
579 Praise the name of Jesus
Prayer
John 6:48-51
Wonderful Merciful Savior
Communion
Collection
Matthew 16:13-16
180 Jesus Is Lord
590 Jesus is all the world to Me
Lesson
943 Do You Know My Jesus
Announcements
602 Nobody Fills My Heart Like Jesus
Prayer
Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)
Wonderful (2x)
162 All Hail the Power of Jesus name (vs 1,2,4)
You are Holy
Philippians 2:5-11 (from New Century Version)
221 Jesus, Name above All Names
222 There's Something About that Name
579 Praise the name of Jesus
Prayer
John 6:48-51
Wonderful Merciful Savior
Communion
Collection
Matthew 16:13-16
180 Jesus Is Lord
590 Jesus is all the world to Me
Lesson
943 Do You Know My Jesus
Announcements
602 Nobody Fills My Heart Like Jesus
Prayer
Friday, October 24, 2008
Politics at Church
How involved should the church be in politics? My hunch is that most will be in the middle on this topic.
My personal view having a very political job, I believe the Church should stay out of the political arena. I don't want to hear any political messages being preached from any pulpit. I have God's Word that leads me in my decision making process. I don't need to hear someones opinion on who is better McCain, Obama or Nader on a Sunday morning.
It's sad to think that thousands of pulpits across America the past few months have been slamming candidates instead of worshipping God.
My personal view having a very political job, I believe the Church should stay out of the political arena. I don't want to hear any political messages being preached from any pulpit. I have God's Word that leads me in my decision making process. I don't need to hear someones opinion on who is better McCain, Obama or Nader on a Sunday morning.
It's sad to think that thousands of pulpits across America the past few months have been slamming candidates instead of worshipping God.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Baggage
I really enjoyed the first lesson in the new series Baggage that Gary and Kevin introduced on Sunday evening.
So many people are burdened with a load of emotional “Baggage.” You know what “Baggage” is--it’s the stuff from our past that we carry around in our soul. It’s the words people said and the things people did that still haunt our minds and seem to limit our potential. It weighs us down. It crowds our relationships. It causes us to stumble through life.God wants to take the “Baggage” off our shoulders so we can be free from its bondage forever. Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matt. 11:28) The Lord invites us to come to Him and “check” our baggage once and for all.But how do we rid ourselves of the emotional pain, past memories and the addictive habits that come with “Baggage?”
More to come……………….
So many people are burdened with a load of emotional “Baggage.” You know what “Baggage” is--it’s the stuff from our past that we carry around in our soul. It’s the words people said and the things people did that still haunt our minds and seem to limit our potential. It weighs us down. It crowds our relationships. It causes us to stumble through life.God wants to take the “Baggage” off our shoulders so we can be free from its bondage forever. Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matt. 11:28) The Lord invites us to come to Him and “check” our baggage once and for all.But how do we rid ourselves of the emotional pain, past memories and the addictive habits that come with “Baggage?”
More to come……………….
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
The Bible and the Diamond Ring
A married lady was expecting a birthday gift from her husband. For many months she had admired a beautiful diamond ring in a showroom, and knowing her husband could afford it, she told him that was all she wanted. As her birthday approached, this lady awaited signs that her husband had purchased the diamond ring. Finally, on the morning of her birthday, her husband called her into his study.Her husband told her how proud he was to have such a good wife, and told her how much he loved her.He handed her a beautiful wrapped gift box. Curious, the wife opened the box and found a lovely, leather-bound Bible, with the wife's name embossed in gold. Angrily, she raised her voice to her husband and said, 'With all your money you give me a Bible?' And stormed out of the house, leaving her husband.
Many years passed and the lady was very successful in business. She managed to settle for a more beautiful house and a wonderful family, but realized her ex-husband was very old, and thought perhaps she should go to visit him. She had not seen him for many years. But before she could make arrangements, she received a telegramtelling her that her ex-husband had passed away, and willed all of his possessions to her. She needed to come back immediately and take care of things. When she arrived at her ex-husband's house, sudden sadness and regret filled her heart. She began to search through her ex-husband's important papers and saw the still new Bible, just as she had left it years before. With tears, she opened the Bible and began to turn the pages. Her ex-husband had carefully underlined a verse, Matt 7:11, 'And if you, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your Heavenly Father, who is in heaven, give what is good to those who ask Him?' As she read those words, a tiny package dropped from the back of the Bible. It had a diamond ring, with her name engraved on it -- the same diamond ring which she saw at the showroom. On the tag was the date of her birth, and the words.'LUV U ALWAYS'.
How many times do we miss God's blessings, because they are not packaged as we expected? Do not spoil what you have, by desiring what you have not; but remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.
Many years passed and the lady was very successful in business. She managed to settle for a more beautiful house and a wonderful family, but realized her ex-husband was very old, and thought perhaps she should go to visit him. She had not seen him for many years. But before she could make arrangements, she received a telegramtelling her that her ex-husband had passed away, and willed all of his possessions to her. She needed to come back immediately and take care of things. When she arrived at her ex-husband's house, sudden sadness and regret filled her heart. She began to search through her ex-husband's important papers and saw the still new Bible, just as she had left it years before. With tears, she opened the Bible and began to turn the pages. Her ex-husband had carefully underlined a verse, Matt 7:11, 'And if you, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your Heavenly Father, who is in heaven, give what is good to those who ask Him?' As she read those words, a tiny package dropped from the back of the Bible. It had a diamond ring, with her name engraved on it -- the same diamond ring which she saw at the showroom. On the tag was the date of her birth, and the words.'LUV U ALWAYS'.
How many times do we miss God's blessings, because they are not packaged as we expected? Do not spoil what you have, by desiring what you have not; but remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Happy Birthday Brian
23 years ago today, on a cold Sunday morning, in York, Nebraska, Brian Lee Carriger arrived to change our lives forever.
In about 4 months his life will really change as Allison becomes his wife. Enjoy your birthday trip to Edmond and Happy Birthday!
Love,
Dad
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Order of Worship
Announcements
Prayer
Worship Leader: Josh Yoho
440 Glorify the Lord with Me (sing through twice)
417 Where He Leads I'll Follow (vs. 1 & 3)
410 He Leadeth Me (1 & 2)
Prayer
278 Victory Chant
269 Thomas' Song
344 Low in the Grave He Lay
Lord's Supper
Offering
570 A Beautiful Life
Lesson
Inv.- 218 Blessed Jesus
Other Announcements
Closing song- 779 I Love You, Lord
Prayer
Worship Leader: Josh Yoho
440 Glorify the Lord with Me (sing through twice)
417 Where He Leads I'll Follow (vs. 1 & 3)
410 He Leadeth Me (1 & 2)
Prayer
278 Victory Chant
269 Thomas' Song
344 Low in the Grave He Lay
Lord's Supper
Offering
570 A Beautiful Life
Lesson
Inv.- 218 Blessed Jesus
Other Announcements
Closing song- 779 I Love You, Lord
Friday, October 17, 2008
A Friday Prayer
Occasionally
Lord, most of all today I’m thankful
that you keep our hearts tender enough to see our sins—at least occasionally.
Because if it were left up to us, Lord,
we would most likely go on forever deluding ourselves about our goodness and our badness.
We would much rather pay attention to our struggles and conflicts
than confess our sins.
And you know how much more fun it is for us to describe
embroider and proclaimeach other’s sins than to admit our own.
Were you watching and listening, Lord,
when we decided—
maybe thoughtlessly—
to rid our conversations
our teaching
our preaching
our worship
and our practice
of any thought or reference to our sins?
Did you notice when we stopped confessing our sins?
When we stopped asking for your forgiveness?
And each other’s forgiveness?
Grant me, and each of us, Lord, the grace to see ourselves in light of your truth.
Deliver us from our daily temptation to excuse ourselves from the
cleansing rituals of confession and repentance.
Deliver us, O Lord, from
spiritual make-believe.
Love us into light even when, mostly when
we would rather linger in the darkness.
Shine your bright, revealing, blinding
will on us so we may begin to see ourselves
as you see us. Then, please, Lord, rescue us
from ourselves. Have mercy on us, O Lord,
and forgive the sins we see and confess.
Via Highland Oaks COC
Lord, most of all today I’m thankful
that you keep our hearts tender enough to see our sins—at least occasionally.
Because if it were left up to us, Lord,
we would most likely go on forever deluding ourselves about our goodness and our badness.
We would much rather pay attention to our struggles and conflicts
than confess our sins.
And you know how much more fun it is for us to describe
embroider and proclaimeach other’s sins than to admit our own.
Were you watching and listening, Lord,
when we decided—
maybe thoughtlessly—
to rid our conversations
our teaching
our preaching
our worship
and our practice
of any thought or reference to our sins?
Did you notice when we stopped confessing our sins?
When we stopped asking for your forgiveness?
And each other’s forgiveness?
Grant me, and each of us, Lord, the grace to see ourselves in light of your truth.
Deliver us from our daily temptation to excuse ourselves from the
cleansing rituals of confession and repentance.
Deliver us, O Lord, from
spiritual make-believe.
Love us into light even when, mostly when
we would rather linger in the darkness.
Shine your bright, revealing, blinding
will on us so we may begin to see ourselves
as you see us. Then, please, Lord, rescue us
from ourselves. Have mercy on us, O Lord,
and forgive the sins we see and confess.
Via Highland Oaks COC
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
The Open-Minded Christian
The Bible makes it clear that many people rejected Jesus because he presented new teachings that did not fit within the context of their traditional doctrines. Only people with an open mind could recognize Jesus and accept his teachings. We have seen this in our study of the book of Mark that the scribes and the Pharisees were not open-minded, and in their arrogance they rejected the Living Christ when he stood before them in the flesh.
Over the years I have realized the importance of having an open mind and avoiding the arrogance of thinking your religious teaching can tell you everything there is to know about God, Jesus and spirituality.
One might say that Jesus came to renew religion and to pull the people of his time out of their mental boxes, their stifled, rigid approach to religion. Perhaps it is the role of the Living Christ to always pull people out of their rigidity, to challenge them to expand their understanding and to think outside the box?
When I look at Christianity today, I see clearly that many modern Christians have become as rigid and stifled as the people who rejected Jesus. I pray that I will always search the scriptures and be open to new ideas and keep an open mind when I talk with those that are Christians but might not necessarily think the same way that I do.
Over the years I have realized the importance of having an open mind and avoiding the arrogance of thinking your religious teaching can tell you everything there is to know about God, Jesus and spirituality.
One might say that Jesus came to renew religion and to pull the people of his time out of their mental boxes, their stifled, rigid approach to religion. Perhaps it is the role of the Living Christ to always pull people out of their rigidity, to challenge them to expand their understanding and to think outside the box?
When I look at Christianity today, I see clearly that many modern Christians have become as rigid and stifled as the people who rejected Jesus. I pray that I will always search the scriptures and be open to new ideas and keep an open mind when I talk with those that are Christians but might not necessarily think the same way that I do.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Monday, October 13, 2008
Don't Lose Focus
Don't Lose Focus
by Mike Barres
Years ago, I realized that it is really hard for me to watch television and talk with my wife. I would begin to talk with her, and then when she started talking to me, I would begin watching the television again. I would lose my focus in the conversation. Now when we begin to talk, we turn the television off.
It's hard to keep our focus on the important things in our lives -- conversations with our spouses is just one example, here are a couple of others that may be even more dangerous.
In the news recently, a story mentioned the possibility of a train engineer using his phone for text messaging just prior to that train wrecking. This seems to be a common and growing problem with text messaging. There have been problems with text messaging during school by students. There have been reports of people text messaging while they are driving -- some states have laws that prevent using cell phones while driving for calling or for "texting." These kinds of things make it difficult to stay focused on the task at hand -- driving safely. It is easy to get distracted.
Recently a friend told me that he was driving down a road that ran along a river. Looking out of his window, he saw someone catching a fish. He was so interested in the fishing that he wrecked his truck. He lost his focus on his driving.
The Holy Spirit has said:
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJV).
The phrase that says, "looking to Jesus" is often translated "fixing our eyes on Jesus." We must keep our focus on Him. We can't lose focus on the Lord!
But it is so easy to take our eyes off of Jesus. So many things can distract us these days. We are reminded to "lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares us." Losing our focus causes us to get tangled up in things that we shouldn't and worry about things we over which we have no control.
The consequences of my friend wrecking his truck were serious and could have been deadly, all because he lost focus. The same is true with each of our lives. Let's keep our focus on Jesus. Let's take our relationship and walk with Him seriously.
We must learn to discern the distractions that the devil brings along and ignore them and say "No!" to them. These distractions may be sin, they might just be activities that take us away from things that we know that the Lord wants us to do, or they could be worries about things going on around us. However, we must stay focused on Jesus, His Word, and His Kingdom!
"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness ..." (Matthew 6:33), "looking unto Jesus" (Hebrews 12:2).
http://www.heartlight.org/articles/200810/20081011_focus.html
(c) 2008 Mike Barres
by Mike Barres
Years ago, I realized that it is really hard for me to watch television and talk with my wife. I would begin to talk with her, and then when she started talking to me, I would begin watching the television again. I would lose my focus in the conversation. Now when we begin to talk, we turn the television off.
It's hard to keep our focus on the important things in our lives -- conversations with our spouses is just one example, here are a couple of others that may be even more dangerous.
In the news recently, a story mentioned the possibility of a train engineer using his phone for text messaging just prior to that train wrecking. This seems to be a common and growing problem with text messaging. There have been problems with text messaging during school by students. There have been reports of people text messaging while they are driving -- some states have laws that prevent using cell phones while driving for calling or for "texting." These kinds of things make it difficult to stay focused on the task at hand -- driving safely. It is easy to get distracted.
Recently a friend told me that he was driving down a road that ran along a river. Looking out of his window, he saw someone catching a fish. He was so interested in the fishing that he wrecked his truck. He lost his focus on his driving.
The Holy Spirit has said:
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJV).
The phrase that says, "looking to Jesus" is often translated "fixing our eyes on Jesus." We must keep our focus on Him. We can't lose focus on the Lord!
But it is so easy to take our eyes off of Jesus. So many things can distract us these days. We are reminded to "lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares us." Losing our focus causes us to get tangled up in things that we shouldn't and worry about things we over which we have no control.
The consequences of my friend wrecking his truck were serious and could have been deadly, all because he lost focus. The same is true with each of our lives. Let's keep our focus on Jesus. Let's take our relationship and walk with Him seriously.
We must learn to discern the distractions that the devil brings along and ignore them and say "No!" to them. These distractions may be sin, they might just be activities that take us away from things that we know that the Lord wants us to do, or they could be worries about things going on around us. However, we must stay focused on Jesus, His Word, and His Kingdom!
"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness ..." (Matthew 6:33), "looking unto Jesus" (Hebrews 12:2).
http://www.heartlight.org/articles/200810/20081011_focus.html
(c) 2008 Mike Barres
Friday, October 10, 2008
Order of Worship
Friend Day
October 12, 2008
Welcome/Announcements (Roger Hamm)
Scripture Reading: Psalm 18:1-3 (Kevin Johnston)
63 I Will Call Upon the Lord
103 He Has Made Me Glad
Prayer
Scripture Reading: 1 John 4:9-11 (Kevin Johnston)
379 If That Isn’t Love
Communion
Contribution
Kevin Johnston:
Scripture: Luke 18:15-17 People were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them; and when the disciples saw it, they sternly ordered them not to do it. But Jesus called for them and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it."
Scripture: Matthew 18:1-5 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, " Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" He called a child, whom he put among the, and said, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me."
Children Songs
Dismiss 2x2
Song Jesus You’re My Firm Foundation
Message The Feeding of the 5000 (Evan Burdan)
Invitation: 781 Thank You, Lord
Announcements (Roger Hamm)
Closing Prayer
October 12, 2008
Welcome/Announcements (Roger Hamm)
Scripture Reading: Psalm 18:1-3 (Kevin Johnston)
63 I Will Call Upon the Lord
103 He Has Made Me Glad
Prayer
Scripture Reading: 1 John 4:9-11 (Kevin Johnston)
379 If That Isn’t Love
Communion
Contribution
Kevin Johnston:
Scripture: Luke 18:15-17 People were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them; and when the disciples saw it, they sternly ordered them not to do it. But Jesus called for them and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it."
Scripture: Matthew 18:1-5 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, " Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" He called a child, whom he put among the, and said, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me."
Children Songs
Dismiss 2x2
Song Jesus You’re My Firm Foundation
Message The Feeding of the 5000 (Evan Burdan)
Invitation: 781 Thank You, Lord
Announcements (Roger Hamm)
Closing Prayer
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Friend Day Sunday
Dear Central Member:
Have you seen the cartoon of the two little girls at the bus stop, chatting as they hold their personal planners? One says: "Okay, I'll move ballet back an hour, reschedule, gymnastics, and cancel piano . . . you shift your violin lesson to Thursday and skip soccer practice . . . that gives us from 3:15 to 3:45 on Wednesday the 16th to play."It’s sad that our lives have been dictated by palm pilots, personal planners and schedules. The technology and information age has forced our society to run at a rapid pace throughout the day where we don’t have any time to just slow down and talk and visit with friends, neighbors and sometimes even our own families.Jesus had time to stop and visit with people. In His fast paced life, he took the time to meet the needs of others.On Sunday, October 12, Central will be celebrating Bring A Friend Day, a day set aside to invite a friend to worship. Spend some time this week praying for an individual that you would like to invite to worship and class on that day. Then take the time and slow down and visit with that person and allow our enthusiasm and the power of God in our lives to tell them about the great family at the Central Church of Christ.
We will begin Friend Day with Bible Class at 9:15 a.m. A short period of fellowship at 10:00 a.m., then worship beginning at 10:30 a.m. We will have a cookout at noon (hamburgers/hotdogs provided). Please bring side dishes to share with the family and friends. After our lunch, we will have a short devotional around 1:00 p.m. to end the day.Be in prayer for Friend Day as well as be in prayer, also, for our friends.
May God be glorified in our efforts!
The Elders of the Central Church of Christ
Have you seen the cartoon of the two little girls at the bus stop, chatting as they hold their personal planners? One says: "Okay, I'll move ballet back an hour, reschedule, gymnastics, and cancel piano . . . you shift your violin lesson to Thursday and skip soccer practice . . . that gives us from 3:15 to 3:45 on Wednesday the 16th to play."It’s sad that our lives have been dictated by palm pilots, personal planners and schedules. The technology and information age has forced our society to run at a rapid pace throughout the day where we don’t have any time to just slow down and talk and visit with friends, neighbors and sometimes even our own families.Jesus had time to stop and visit with people. In His fast paced life, he took the time to meet the needs of others.On Sunday, October 12, Central will be celebrating Bring A Friend Day, a day set aside to invite a friend to worship. Spend some time this week praying for an individual that you would like to invite to worship and class on that day. Then take the time and slow down and visit with that person and allow our enthusiasm and the power of God in our lives to tell them about the great family at the Central Church of Christ.
We will begin Friend Day with Bible Class at 9:15 a.m. A short period of fellowship at 10:00 a.m., then worship beginning at 10:30 a.m. We will have a cookout at noon (hamburgers/hotdogs provided). Please bring side dishes to share with the family and friends. After our lunch, we will have a short devotional around 1:00 p.m. to end the day.Be in prayer for Friend Day as well as be in prayer, also, for our friends.
May God be glorified in our efforts!
The Elders of the Central Church of Christ
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
"He Came Home, But..........."
When the prodigal came home … there was a hug, a kiss, a pair of sandals, a robe, a ring, a fatted calf, and a celebration waiting on him. I am sure that his welcome home included a hot bath and a haircut. By the time of the “Welcome Home Son” party began, his makeover was complete … no more stench or stain from the pig pen, only the haunting memories in the runaway’s heart.
However, sometimes when the prodigal comes home, a hot bath and a haircut will not remove the stains or consequences of those wasteful years. Sometimes … there are legal consequences that remain on account even when the sin consequences are blotted out.
How do you “deal” with that brother?
Well, first … you treat him how the Father would. Welcome him home! Celebrate that the one that was lost has been found … the one that was dead is now alive. We want this brother to KNOW that we agree with God … and that we are going to “forgive” him … “comfort” him … and “reaffirm” our love him, so that he will not be overcome by “overmuch sorrow”.
Then, of course, we want to “Barnabas” him. Barnabas means “son of encouragement”, and that is exactly what Barnabas did for Saul … as he helped him find his place in this new fellowship.
Consider (Acts 9:26-31, NIV): “When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles.” In being Saul’s advocate Barnabas helped the disciples to begin to trust this new brother, reassuring them that he (Barnabas) believed that Saul really was a disciple … and he helped Saul by standing with him, reassuring him that he (Barnabas) believed it and that he would help Saul convince the rest of the disciples.
Such an encourager - advocate - friend is needed by any brother or sister, who is coming home - but especially by those who have some residual consequences. Jesus accepts that role (1John2:1-2) … and would be pleased if we would see fit to do the same.
Now … such a role is not without risks, because the disciples still might not trust … and the prodigal might falter and fail again. Therefore, the “Barnabas brother” must be one who is strong in the Lord (for the Lord) … for it is the strong that “bear with the failings of the weak“. And though it is a difficult task and even a treacherous place - “caught in the middle” - it is needed by more people than we want to acknowledge. They wait outside the fellowship - outside the celebration - waiting for someone to “Barnabas” them inside.
Rex Boyles
However, sometimes when the prodigal comes home, a hot bath and a haircut will not remove the stains or consequences of those wasteful years. Sometimes … there are legal consequences that remain on account even when the sin consequences are blotted out.
How do you “deal” with that brother?
Well, first … you treat him how the Father would. Welcome him home! Celebrate that the one that was lost has been found … the one that was dead is now alive. We want this brother to KNOW that we agree with God … and that we are going to “forgive” him … “comfort” him … and “reaffirm” our love him, so that he will not be overcome by “overmuch sorrow”.
Then, of course, we want to “Barnabas” him. Barnabas means “son of encouragement”, and that is exactly what Barnabas did for Saul … as he helped him find his place in this new fellowship.
Consider (Acts 9:26-31, NIV): “When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles.” In being Saul’s advocate Barnabas helped the disciples to begin to trust this new brother, reassuring them that he (Barnabas) believed that Saul really was a disciple … and he helped Saul by standing with him, reassuring him that he (Barnabas) believed it and that he would help Saul convince the rest of the disciples.
Such an encourager - advocate - friend is needed by any brother or sister, who is coming home - but especially by those who have some residual consequences. Jesus accepts that role (1John2:1-2) … and would be pleased if we would see fit to do the same.
Now … such a role is not without risks, because the disciples still might not trust … and the prodigal might falter and fail again. Therefore, the “Barnabas brother” must be one who is strong in the Lord (for the Lord) … for it is the strong that “bear with the failings of the weak“. And though it is a difficult task and even a treacherous place - “caught in the middle” - it is needed by more people than we want to acknowledge. They wait outside the fellowship - outside the celebration - waiting for someone to “Barnabas” them inside.
Rex Boyles
Monday, October 06, 2008
Stats
This year's Pew Religious Forum study is out, and it found:
- 57% Evangelicals who said they believe many religions can lead to eternal life
- 68% Americans who said there is more than one true way to interpret the teachings of their religion
- 14% Americans who cite religious beliefs as the main influence on their political thinking
SOURCE: Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life
Friday, October 03, 2008
Knowledge of Ourselves
Knowledge of Ourselves
by Lynn Anderson
Heartlight
You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. So when you, a mere man, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you toward repentance? But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God’s wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed.
(Romans 2:1-6)
Dear God,
It is true that people are usually the quickest to judge others over the things they themselves are likely to do? I knew a man who was continually condemning President Clinton over his infidelity and indiscretions, yet it later came out that he had several affairs and ended up leaving his wife and children for another woman.
There is a saying that I like: “Our suspicions of others are aroused by the knowledge of ourselves.” So as I inspect myself, over what types of things do I tend to judge others, and what is it that is in me that causes me to do this? I guess there are two things that I judge people most about. First, I judge people if I perceive them to be too religiously zealous and not tolerant enough of others who aren’t at their spiritual level. I am also judgmental towards those who ignore their families in the name of wealth, achievement, power, or even God.
“Our suspicions of others are aroused by the knowledge of ourselves.” As I think about these things, I think they come more from my personal wounds and experiences than they come from my own tendency to sin in this area. At the same time, my tendency is to rebel against both of these areas in my life to an extent that I become obsessed with not being like them and I pursue the sin in the other direction. For example, I realize now that one of my sins is that I still sometimes try to feel good about myself and the man I am by making sure that my family adores me. I will sacrifice and do whatever it takes to pursue their love for me. But what ends up happening time and again is that I end up finding my self-worth in their love for me and I make myself my God instead of you. Others look for their self-worth in work, church, civic involvement, etc. These are the people I judge. But I am as guilty as they are.
Father, give me a vision for loving these people. Give me a heart that reaches out to them and meets them where they are. Make me your representative to them. Help me to put aside my arrogance and approach them with your love and to see them with your eyes. Forgive me for pursuing my own glory. I want only yours.
by Lynn Anderson
Heartlight
You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. So when you, a mere man, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you toward repentance? But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God’s wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed.
(Romans 2:1-6)
Dear God,
It is true that people are usually the quickest to judge others over the things they themselves are likely to do? I knew a man who was continually condemning President Clinton over his infidelity and indiscretions, yet it later came out that he had several affairs and ended up leaving his wife and children for another woman.
There is a saying that I like: “Our suspicions of others are aroused by the knowledge of ourselves.” So as I inspect myself, over what types of things do I tend to judge others, and what is it that is in me that causes me to do this? I guess there are two things that I judge people most about. First, I judge people if I perceive them to be too religiously zealous and not tolerant enough of others who aren’t at their spiritual level. I am also judgmental towards those who ignore their families in the name of wealth, achievement, power, or even God.
“Our suspicions of others are aroused by the knowledge of ourselves.” As I think about these things, I think they come more from my personal wounds and experiences than they come from my own tendency to sin in this area. At the same time, my tendency is to rebel against both of these areas in my life to an extent that I become obsessed with not being like them and I pursue the sin in the other direction. For example, I realize now that one of my sins is that I still sometimes try to feel good about myself and the man I am by making sure that my family adores me. I will sacrifice and do whatever it takes to pursue their love for me. But what ends up happening time and again is that I end up finding my self-worth in their love for me and I make myself my God instead of you. Others look for their self-worth in work, church, civic involvement, etc. These are the people I judge. But I am as guilty as they are.
Father, give me a vision for loving these people. Give me a heart that reaches out to them and meets them where they are. Make me your representative to them. Help me to put aside my arrogance and approach them with your love and to see them with your eyes. Forgive me for pursuing my own glory. I want only yours.
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Fireproof
There is a new movie out that looks at divorce from a Christian perspective. Here is the plot from a new movie called Fireproof...................
Lt. Caleb Holt lives by the old firefighters adage: Never leave your partner behind. Inside burning buildings, it's his natural instinct. In the cooling embers of his marriage, it's another story.
After 7 years of marriage, Caleb and Catherine Holt have drifted so far apart that they are ready to move on without each other. Yet as they prepare to enter divorce proceedings, Caleb's dad asks his son to try an experiment: The Love Dare.
While hoping The Love Dare has nothing to do with his parents' new found faith, Caleb commits to the challenge. But can he attempt to love his wife while avoiding God's love for him? Will he be able to demonstrate love over and over again to a person that's no longer receptive to his love? Or is this just another marriage destined to go up in smoke?
FIREPROOF is the third feature film from Sherwood Pictures and the Kendrick Brothers—the creators of FACING THE GIANTS. FIREPROOF will have audiences of all ages laughing and crying as they are inspired by this story of perseverance and commitment.
http://www.outreach.com/print/articlem.asp?article_name=p-FireproofHome&sid=48E40F001F79E17F
Lt. Caleb Holt lives by the old firefighters adage: Never leave your partner behind. Inside burning buildings, it's his natural instinct. In the cooling embers of his marriage, it's another story.
After 7 years of marriage, Caleb and Catherine Holt have drifted so far apart that they are ready to move on without each other. Yet as they prepare to enter divorce proceedings, Caleb's dad asks his son to try an experiment: The Love Dare.
While hoping The Love Dare has nothing to do with his parents' new found faith, Caleb commits to the challenge. But can he attempt to love his wife while avoiding God's love for him? Will he be able to demonstrate love over and over again to a person that's no longer receptive to his love? Or is this just another marriage destined to go up in smoke?
FIREPROOF is the third feature film from Sherwood Pictures and the Kendrick Brothers—the creators of FACING THE GIANTS. FIREPROOF will have audiences of all ages laughing and crying as they are inspired by this story of perseverance and commitment.
http://www.outreach.com/print/articlem.asp?article_name=p-FireproofHome&sid=48E40F001F79E17F
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Maintenance or Mission?
This was posted on William Willimon's blog some time back. It was on my mind today.....
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 pastor 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 pastor.”
6. When confronted with a legitimate pastoral concern, the pastor in the maintenance congregation asks, “How can I meet this need?” The pastor 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.
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 pastor 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 pastor.”
6. When confronted with a legitimate pastoral concern, the pastor in the maintenance congregation asks, “How can I meet this need?” The pastor 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.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Decisions?
Have you ever had something that is on your heart and mind that you know is a faith step experience? One that changes everything you are doing? One that will change your life every day if you decide to go a certain direction.
During our lives we have those types of life-changing decisions that come our way. Many say no. A few say with God's guidance, I'm going with you down that path wherever you want to take me.
During our lives we have those types of life-changing decisions that come our way. Many say no. A few say with God's guidance, I'm going with you down that path wherever you want to take me.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Tolerating Pain in Leadership
One of my favorite articles that I pass on to individuals often....................................
Tolerating Pain in Leadership
John Maxwell
There are many keys to being an effective leader.
In order to be an effective leader you have to be able to tolerate pain. Your own pain as well as the pain of others. Sometimes others will inflict pain upon you. You must absorb and carry it forward in order to lead. Sometimes you will be called upon to inflict pain on others for their own good or for the good of the organization you lead. If you don’t think leaders inflict pain, then go make a decision and see if anyone yelps. Sometimes you will inflict pain upon yourself when you inflict pain on others because you care so much about those whom you are leading.
Without a doubt, one of the hardest things to do as a leader is to watch people we love squirm with emotional pain because of a position we’ve taken. Most of us end up caving sooner or later and we sheepishly reverse our position or change our direction in order to dull the pain and keep the peace.
Research indicates that the reason most churches are struggling to move forward in any kind of discernible way is because their leadership is spending all their time and energy trying to avoid pain. They think the absence of pain is a sign of good leadership. Making sure no one gets hurt may be a win for a bank robber (Put your hands in the air and do what you’re told and no one gets hurt), but it’s a terrible way of judging how well we’re doing as leaders.
All pain avoidance does is delay the inevitable, which is . . .pain.
Leaders who try to avoid pain will someday be confronted with the worst pain of all, the awareness that the end result of their perpetual pain avoidance is the collapse of the organization they were supposed to be leading.
Are you called to lead? If so, and if you’re not ready to experience and tolerate some pain, then please say no to the call. Whatever organization you’re being called to lead will be better off without you in leadership. If you’re ready to deal with some pain, then step up and buckle in, because it’s gonna hurt.
Tolerating Pain in Leadership
John Maxwell
There are many keys to being an effective leader.
In order to be an effective leader you have to be able to tolerate pain. Your own pain as well as the pain of others. Sometimes others will inflict pain upon you. You must absorb and carry it forward in order to lead. Sometimes you will be called upon to inflict pain on others for their own good or for the good of the organization you lead. If you don’t think leaders inflict pain, then go make a decision and see if anyone yelps. Sometimes you will inflict pain upon yourself when you inflict pain on others because you care so much about those whom you are leading.
Without a doubt, one of the hardest things to do as a leader is to watch people we love squirm with emotional pain because of a position we’ve taken. Most of us end up caving sooner or later and we sheepishly reverse our position or change our direction in order to dull the pain and keep the peace.
Research indicates that the reason most churches are struggling to move forward in any kind of discernible way is because their leadership is spending all their time and energy trying to avoid pain. They think the absence of pain is a sign of good leadership. Making sure no one gets hurt may be a win for a bank robber (Put your hands in the air and do what you’re told and no one gets hurt), but it’s a terrible way of judging how well we’re doing as leaders.
All pain avoidance does is delay the inevitable, which is . . .pain.
Leaders who try to avoid pain will someday be confronted with the worst pain of all, the awareness that the end result of their perpetual pain avoidance is the collapse of the organization they were supposed to be leading.
Are you called to lead? If so, and if you’re not ready to experience and tolerate some pain, then please say no to the call. Whatever organization you’re being called to lead will be better off without you in leadership. If you’re ready to deal with some pain, then step up and buckle in, because it’s gonna hurt.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Attitude
Three people were at work on a construction site.
All were doing the same job, but when asked what his job was, the answer varied.
“Breaking rocks,” the first replied.
“Earning my living,” the second said.
“Helping to build a cathedral,” said the third.
All were doing the same job, but when asked what his job was, the answer varied.
“Breaking rocks,” the first replied.
“Earning my living,” the second said.
“Helping to build a cathedral,” said the third.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Jesus
Most of us are familiar with Matthew’s account of Jesus’ baptism. In his gospel, God makes a public announcement: “This is my son, whom I love. I am well pleased with him.”
But in Mark and Luke, these words come not so much as a public proclamation but as an affirmation and blessing from Father to Son: “You are my son. I love you. I am so pleased with you.”
I love N. T. Wright’s insights about this blessing:
“The whole Christian gospel could be summed up in this point: that when the living God looks at us, at every baptized and believing Christian, he says to us what he said to Jesus on that day. He sees us, not as we are in ourselves, but as we are in Jesus Christ. It sometimes seems impossible, especially to people who have never had this kind of support from their earthly parents, but it’s true: God looks at us, and says, ‘You are my dear, dear child; I’m delighted with you.’ Try reading that sentence slowly, with your own name at the start, and reflect quietly on God saying that to you, both at your baptism and every day since.”
Mike Cope
But in Mark and Luke, these words come not so much as a public proclamation but as an affirmation and blessing from Father to Son: “You are my son. I love you. I am so pleased with you.”
I love N. T. Wright’s insights about this blessing:
“The whole Christian gospel could be summed up in this point: that when the living God looks at us, at every baptized and believing Christian, he says to us what he said to Jesus on that day. He sees us, not as we are in ourselves, but as we are in Jesus Christ. It sometimes seems impossible, especially to people who have never had this kind of support from their earthly parents, but it’s true: God looks at us, and says, ‘You are my dear, dear child; I’m delighted with you.’ Try reading that sentence slowly, with your own name at the start, and reflect quietly on God saying that to you, both at your baptism and every day since.”
Mike Cope
Friday, September 19, 2008
Ready to Quit?
The mother of Titans, quarterback Vince Young, said he indicated he doesn’t want to play football and is “hurting inside and out.”
Felicia Young said in last Wednesday editions of The Tennessean that her son is tired of all the negativity he’s faced after being booed during a 17-10 win over Jacksonville. On Monday, Titans coach Jeff Fisher called police to help find him.
“What would you think if you were tired of being ridiculed and persecuted and talked about and not being treated very well, what would you do? What kind of decision would you make?” Felicia Young said “He may not want to deal with it (all), but you have to get to that point before you make that decision first.
Our society is tough not only on athletes but people in general.
It doesn’t matter if you are a NFL Quarterback or a trash man just doing the very best job you can, you will be ridiculed and talked about.
As a superintendent, I must have very thick skin. The decisions I make always makes someone happy and someone upset. I often think that you can live some place too long. Ever think about where you can shop? What store I am welcomed in? What group I can talk to at a game or activity? I sometimes have to think about that. Many times I think, “who haven’t I upset in this town?”
But then I think about what Christ went through during his brief ministry here on earth. I haven’t been beaten (physically), haven’t been spat upon (yet), I haven’t been crucified on a tree in humiliation and shame. My shoulders can get a little bigger when I think about what my Savior went through for me…………..
Felicia Young said in last Wednesday editions of The Tennessean that her son is tired of all the negativity he’s faced after being booed during a 17-10 win over Jacksonville. On Monday, Titans coach Jeff Fisher called police to help find him.
“What would you think if you were tired of being ridiculed and persecuted and talked about and not being treated very well, what would you do? What kind of decision would you make?” Felicia Young said “He may not want to deal with it (all), but you have to get to that point before you make that decision first.
Our society is tough not only on athletes but people in general.
It doesn’t matter if you are a NFL Quarterback or a trash man just doing the very best job you can, you will be ridiculed and talked about.
As a superintendent, I must have very thick skin. The decisions I make always makes someone happy and someone upset. I often think that you can live some place too long. Ever think about where you can shop? What store I am welcomed in? What group I can talk to at a game or activity? I sometimes have to think about that. Many times I think, “who haven’t I upset in this town?”
But then I think about what Christ went through during his brief ministry here on earth. I haven’t been beaten (physically), haven’t been spat upon (yet), I haven’t been crucified on a tree in humiliation and shame. My shoulders can get a little bigger when I think about what my Savior went through for me…………..
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Sunflowers
Sunflowers. One of my favorite fall landscapes.
There are many fields of sunflowers in Osage County, Kansas, this September. At one of the fields, we actually stopped the car on the highway last Sunday so Debbie could get a picture of the flowers reaching towards the sky and sun.
This past week, after the rain, I noticed that the field was full of droopy sunflowers. Only a handful had their flowers pointing up towards the sky.
I think about the Christian life when I see those drooping flowers. How easy it is to be a negative individual in this dark hateful world we live in. But the few who keep their heads up and look heavenward are the ones everyone notices and wants to know what is so special about their life? Why are they always positive and have a great outlook on life?
In Matthew 5, Jesus encourages us to let our lights so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
We do that by keeping our heads lifted toward the Son and being positive examples to those who are tired of life’s struggles.
So, when you drive by the sunflower patch, look at those who keep their heads up even when it becomes cloudy and dark.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Doing Church
For those of you who are not satisfied with “doing church”, not satisfied with coming to church for an hour or two a week to check off a box, and not satisfied with a mission that has a ratio of 9/1 inward focused/outward focused ministries and budgets…realize that you are not alone. There is a whole generation coming up that doesn’t care how nice the building is or how small the budget is. They are more concerned with being the church and taking the mission into world because that is what God has asked us to do and who he wants us to be.
Young people today could seriously care less if they meet in an auditorium that seats 5000 or in a living room with 10 other people as long as it is done intentionally and out of a heart for spiritual transformation. Young people today will not be satisfied with budgets that are focused on keeping on the ac in the building while millions around the world go without food. If this strikes a chord in your heart, realize that you are not alone and that there is a wave of change that is coming that will be refreshing and terrifying all at the same time. I am sure it will make its way into different congregations and communities at different rates and times but it is going to happen and is already happening.
So check your comfort zone at the door and be ready to have your traditions challenged while maintaining a sensitivity and accountability to sola scriptura. It should be an interesting ride. Good thing we don’t have to do it alone. Thank you for being here. Thank you for contributing. Continue to ask questions. Continue to be a voice for the kingdom. Be ready to wait and see how God responds.
Matt Dabbs
Young people today could seriously care less if they meet in an auditorium that seats 5000 or in a living room with 10 other people as long as it is done intentionally and out of a heart for spiritual transformation. Young people today will not be satisfied with budgets that are focused on keeping on the ac in the building while millions around the world go without food. If this strikes a chord in your heart, realize that you are not alone and that there is a wave of change that is coming that will be refreshing and terrifying all at the same time. I am sure it will make its way into different congregations and communities at different rates and times but it is going to happen and is already happening.
So check your comfort zone at the door and be ready to have your traditions challenged while maintaining a sensitivity and accountability to sola scriptura. It should be an interesting ride. Good thing we don’t have to do it alone. Thank you for being here. Thank you for contributing. Continue to ask questions. Continue to be a voice for the kingdom. Be ready to wait and see how God responds.
Matt Dabbs
Friday, September 12, 2008
Yellow Leaves
This is an excerpt from Frederick Buechner’s book Yellow Leaves. It makes you think about what takes place on Sunday's at 11:00 a.m...................
…Fresh from breakfast with his wife and children and a quick run through of the Sunday papers, the preacher climbs the steps to the pulpit with his sermon in his hand. He hikes his black robe up at the knee so that he will not trip over it on the way up. His mouth is a little dry. He has cut himself shaving. He feels as if he has swallowed an anchor. If it weren’t for he honor of the thing, he would just as soon be somewhere else.
In the front pews the old ladies turn up their hearing aids, and a young lady slips her six-year old a Lifesaver and a Magic Marker. A college sophomore home for vacation, who is there because he was dragged there, slumps forward with his chin in his hand. The vice-president of a bank who twice that week has seriously contemplated suicide places his hymnal in the rack. A pregnant girl feels the life stir inside her. A high-school math teacher, who for twenty years has managed to keep his homosexuality a secret for the most part even from himself, creases his order of service down the center with his thumbnail and tucks it under his knee…
…The preacher pulls the little cord that turns on the lectern light and deals out his note cards like a riverboat gambler. The stakes have never been higher. Two minutes from now he may have lost his listeners completely to their own thoughts, but at this minute he has them in the palm of his hand. The silence in the shabby church is deafening because everybody is listening even himself. Everybody knows the kind of things he has told them before and not told them, but who knows what this time, out of the silence, he will tell them? (Telling the Truth: The Gospel as Tragedy, Comedy & Fairy Tale, pp. 22-23)
…Fresh from breakfast with his wife and children and a quick run through of the Sunday papers, the preacher climbs the steps to the pulpit with his sermon in his hand. He hikes his black robe up at the knee so that he will not trip over it on the way up. His mouth is a little dry. He has cut himself shaving. He feels as if he has swallowed an anchor. If it weren’t for he honor of the thing, he would just as soon be somewhere else.
In the front pews the old ladies turn up their hearing aids, and a young lady slips her six-year old a Lifesaver and a Magic Marker. A college sophomore home for vacation, who is there because he was dragged there, slumps forward with his chin in his hand. The vice-president of a bank who twice that week has seriously contemplated suicide places his hymnal in the rack. A pregnant girl feels the life stir inside her. A high-school math teacher, who for twenty years has managed to keep his homosexuality a secret for the most part even from himself, creases his order of service down the center with his thumbnail and tucks it under his knee…
…The preacher pulls the little cord that turns on the lectern light and deals out his note cards like a riverboat gambler. The stakes have never been higher. Two minutes from now he may have lost his listeners completely to their own thoughts, but at this minute he has them in the palm of his hand. The silence in the shabby church is deafening because everybody is listening even himself. Everybody knows the kind of things he has told them before and not told them, but who knows what this time, out of the silence, he will tell them? (Telling the Truth: The Gospel as Tragedy, Comedy & Fairy Tale, pp. 22-23)
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
God Reveals New Things Each Day
The carolers managed their way along the sidewalks of Princeton, New Jersey on a snowy Christmas Eve. They came upon an old man’s place and began to sing “O Little Town of Bethlehem”. The old man was a musician who, being Jewish, didn’t necessarily celebrate the way the carolers assumed. Yet after coming to the door, he turned to retrieve his violin to offer perfect accompaniment. This man worshipped Mozart and felt such an artist was more than a musician; he was an explorer to be idolized. The gentle soul’s violin marvelously blended with the young singers the rest of the way through the song…and then he turned and vanished behind the closed door. The old man had such a zest for the unknown. He felt Mozart was the epitome of world leadership and vision. If only society could discover as Mozart had, all would be better off…..thought the sweet man. This amateur violinist was a master of many things…..many things. He once was sought to be President of Israel, yet he declined as he continued to now live in the Americas. His passion for improvement never faded. His drive for looking the present square in the eye and adjusting it to become even more productive had driven this ageless wonder to pick up the violin and learn to play it masterfully. He had to conquer so many things, but this stringed instrument was paramount. The old man? Never did he become the President of Israel; yet, he is known as a world leader in his own right. His name is Albert Einstein.
I encourage you to note the world leaders who explore for more information and affirmation than has yet to be discovered. God is not nearly done revealing new criteria and invention anymore than the sun hanging in space is about to burn out. There is more to come! Love life!
Terry Rush
I encourage you to note the world leaders who explore for more information and affirmation than has yet to be discovered. God is not nearly done revealing new criteria and invention anymore than the sun hanging in space is about to burn out. There is more to come! Love life!
Terry Rush
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Good to Great
I've been thinking all day of one of my favorite quotes. It's from Jim Collins in Good to Great. The opening lines of the book remind me that what is true of business is sometimes true of churches:
“Good is the enemy of great. And that is one of the key reasons why we have so little that becomes great. We don't have great school principally because we have good schools. We don't have great government, principally because we have good government. Few people attain great lives, in large part because it is just so easy to settle for a good life. The vast majority of companies never become great, precisely because the vast majority become quite good--and that is their main problem."
“Good is the enemy of great. And that is one of the key reasons why we have so little that becomes great. We don't have great school principally because we have good schools. We don't have great government, principally because we have good government. Few people attain great lives, in large part because it is just so easy to settle for a good life. The vast majority of companies never become great, precisely because the vast majority become quite good--and that is their main problem."
Monday, September 08, 2008
What's missing?
Appreciate Gary Souder sending this to us last week......
So removed is our understanding of the gospel as a relational invitation that recently, while teaching another class of Bible college students, I presented a form of the gospel but left out a key element, to see if they would notice. I told them in advance that I was going to leave out a critical element of the gospel, and I asked them to listen carefully to figure out the missing piece.
I told them man was sinful, and this was obvious when we looked at the culture we lived in. I pointed out specific examples of depravity including homosexuality, abortion, drug use, song lyrics on the radio, newspaper headlines, and so on. Then I told the class that man must repent, and showed them scriptures that spoke firmly of this idea. I used the true-life example I heard from a preacher about a man in Missouri who, warning people of a bridge that had collapsed, shot a flare gun directly at oncoming cars so they would stop before they drove over the bridge to their deaths. I said I was like that man, shooting flares at cars, and they could be mad at me an frustrated, but I was saving their lives, because the wages of sin is death, and they had to repent in order to see heaven. I then pointed to scripture about the wages of sin being death, and talked at length about how sin separates us from God.
Then I spoke of the beauty of morality, and told a story of a friend who chose not to cheat on his wife and so now enjoys the fruits of his marriage, committed in love to his wife, grateful that he never betrayed the purity and beauty of their relationship. I talked about heaven and how great it will be to walk on streets of gold and how there will probably be millions of miles of mountains and rivers and how great it will be to fish those rivers and sit with our friends around a fire beneath a mountain peak that reaches up into stars so thick we could barely imagine the beauty of the expanse. I gave the class statistics regarding teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, going into detail about what it is they would be saved from if they would only repent, and how their lives could be God-honoring and God-centered and this would give them a sense of purity and feeling of fulfillment on earth, and that God would provide for them in relationships and in finances and in comfort.
When I was done, I rested my case and asked the class if they could tell me what it was I had left out of this gospel presentation. I waited as a class of Bible college students - who that year had read several textbooks about Christian theology, who had read the majority of the Bible, all of whom had taken an evangelism class only weeks before in which they went door-to-door to hundreds of homes and shared their faith using pamphlets that explained the gospel, who had grown up in Christian homes attending strong evangelical churches, who had taken both New Testament Introduction and Old Testament Introduction - sat there for several minutes in uncomfortable silence.
None of the forty-five students in the class realized I had presented a gospel without once mentioning the name of Jesus. Nobody noticed, even when I said I was going to neglect something very important, even when I asked them to think very hard about what it was I had left out, even when I stood there for several minutes in silence.
To a culture that believes that they "go to heaven" based on whether or not they are morally pure, or that they understand some theological ideas, or that they are very spiritual, Jesus is completely unnecessary. At best, He is an after thought, a technicality by which we become morally pure, or a subject of which we know, or a founding father of our woo-woo spirituality.
I assure you, these students loved Jesus very much, and they were terrific kids whom I loved being with, it's just that when they thought of the gospel, they thought of the message in terms of a series of thoughts or principles, not mysterious relational dynamics. The least important of the ideas, to this class, was knowing Jesus; the least important of the ideas was the one that is relational. The gospel of Jesus, then, mistakenly assumed by this class, is something different from Jesus Himself.
(ie the gospel of Jesus from Mark; 1 Cor 15:1-4)
So removed is our understanding of the gospel as a relational invitation that recently, while teaching another class of Bible college students, I presented a form of the gospel but left out a key element, to see if they would notice. I told them in advance that I was going to leave out a critical element of the gospel, and I asked them to listen carefully to figure out the missing piece.
I told them man was sinful, and this was obvious when we looked at the culture we lived in. I pointed out specific examples of depravity including homosexuality, abortion, drug use, song lyrics on the radio, newspaper headlines, and so on. Then I told the class that man must repent, and showed them scriptures that spoke firmly of this idea. I used the true-life example I heard from a preacher about a man in Missouri who, warning people of a bridge that had collapsed, shot a flare gun directly at oncoming cars so they would stop before they drove over the bridge to their deaths. I said I was like that man, shooting flares at cars, and they could be mad at me an frustrated, but I was saving their lives, because the wages of sin is death, and they had to repent in order to see heaven. I then pointed to scripture about the wages of sin being death, and talked at length about how sin separates us from God.
Then I spoke of the beauty of morality, and told a story of a friend who chose not to cheat on his wife and so now enjoys the fruits of his marriage, committed in love to his wife, grateful that he never betrayed the purity and beauty of their relationship. I talked about heaven and how great it will be to walk on streets of gold and how there will probably be millions of miles of mountains and rivers and how great it will be to fish those rivers and sit with our friends around a fire beneath a mountain peak that reaches up into stars so thick we could barely imagine the beauty of the expanse. I gave the class statistics regarding teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, going into detail about what it is they would be saved from if they would only repent, and how their lives could be God-honoring and God-centered and this would give them a sense of purity and feeling of fulfillment on earth, and that God would provide for them in relationships and in finances and in comfort.
When I was done, I rested my case and asked the class if they could tell me what it was I had left out of this gospel presentation. I waited as a class of Bible college students - who that year had read several textbooks about Christian theology, who had read the majority of the Bible, all of whom had taken an evangelism class only weeks before in which they went door-to-door to hundreds of homes and shared their faith using pamphlets that explained the gospel, who had grown up in Christian homes attending strong evangelical churches, who had taken both New Testament Introduction and Old Testament Introduction - sat there for several minutes in uncomfortable silence.
None of the forty-five students in the class realized I had presented a gospel without once mentioning the name of Jesus. Nobody noticed, even when I said I was going to neglect something very important, even when I asked them to think very hard about what it was I had left out, even when I stood there for several minutes in silence.
To a culture that believes that they "go to heaven" based on whether or not they are morally pure, or that they understand some theological ideas, or that they are very spiritual, Jesus is completely unnecessary. At best, He is an after thought, a technicality by which we become morally pure, or a subject of which we know, or a founding father of our woo-woo spirituality.
I assure you, these students loved Jesus very much, and they were terrific kids whom I loved being with, it's just that when they thought of the gospel, they thought of the message in terms of a series of thoughts or principles, not mysterious relational dynamics. The least important of the ideas, to this class, was knowing Jesus; the least important of the ideas was the one that is relational. The gospel of Jesus, then, mistakenly assumed by this class, is something different from Jesus Himself.
(ie the gospel of Jesus from Mark; 1 Cor 15:1-4)
Friday, September 05, 2008
Order of Worship
Welcome:
Scripture: Mark 1:1-8
162 All Hail the Power of Jesus Name
167 Hosanna
221 Jesus, Name Above All Names
Scripture: Mark 1:9-11
176 O Lamb of God
Lords Supper
Contribution
Special Prayer-Jerry
2 x 2 Dismissed
186 Christ, We Do All Adore Thee
Message Evan Burdan
Invitation 286 Wonderful Story of Love
Announcements
Jesus You’re my Firm Foundation
Closing Prayer
Scripture: Mark 1:1-8
162 All Hail the Power of Jesus Name
167 Hosanna
221 Jesus, Name Above All Names
Scripture: Mark 1:9-11
176 O Lamb of God
Lords Supper
Contribution
Special Prayer-Jerry
2 x 2 Dismissed
186 Christ, We Do All Adore Thee
Message Evan Burdan
Invitation 286 Wonderful Story of Love
Announcements
Jesus You’re my Firm Foundation
Closing Prayer
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Labor Day Weekend
We enjoyed a great weekend having Brian and Allison in Osage City. Allison is finishing up her senior year at Oklahoma Christian doing her student teaching. Brian works for the Anderson County Sheriffs Department as a Deputy Sheriff. Their wedding is scheduled for February 28 in Burleson, Texas.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
UGG Australia
Craig is getting his fashion experience working at UGG Australia in New York City. He applied on-line before he left and had a interview the day after he arrived last week. He started school and his new job last week. He is enjoying both.
I had to find out what UGG Australia was.......the good thing about where he works, they have size 15 shoes!
Monday, September 01, 2008
Labor Day 2008
Here in the United States, today is the Labor Day, a holiday created in recognition of the organized labor movement.
"Whatever their faults, unions have been the only powerful and effective voice working people have ever had in the history of this country."—Bruce Springsteen
"Although it is true that only about 20 percent of American workers are in unions, that 20 percent sets the standards across the board in salaries, benefits and working conditions. If you are making a decent salary in a non-union company, you owe that to the unions. One thing that corporations do not do is give out money out of the goodness of their hearts."—Molly Ivins
"If hard work were such a wonderful thing, surely the rich would have kept it all to themselves."—Lane Kirkland
"Every advance in this half-century—Social Security, civil rights, Medicare, aid to education, one after another—came with the support and leadership of American Labor."—Jimmy Carter
"The labor movement is the last noble protest of the American people against the power of incorporated wealth."—Wendell Phillips
"Whatever their faults, unions have been the only powerful and effective voice working people have ever had in the history of this country."—Bruce Springsteen
"Although it is true that only about 20 percent of American workers are in unions, that 20 percent sets the standards across the board in salaries, benefits and working conditions. If you are making a decent salary in a non-union company, you owe that to the unions. One thing that corporations do not do is give out money out of the goodness of their hearts."—Molly Ivins
"If hard work were such a wonderful thing, surely the rich would have kept it all to themselves."—Lane Kirkland
"Every advance in this half-century—Social Security, civil rights, Medicare, aid to education, one after another—came with the support and leadership of American Labor."—Jimmy Carter
"The labor movement is the last noble protest of the American people against the power of incorporated wealth."—Wendell Phillips
Friday, August 29, 2008
Content in What we Do
Contentment
Satisfaction
Happiness
Why are so many miserable in this world? People today live in a society that offers everything that you could ever possibly want but individuals are increasingly more depressed and unhappier than ever before.
Why have we made the decision that we need more and more stuff to be truly happy? I often tell young people to enjoy every job that they have because you will learn many work strategies and skills that will help you in your future occupations.
I can truly say that I have enjoyed every job that I have ever had. I started out cooking hamburgers at Burger Chef at Woodlands Hills Mall in Tulsa when I was 16. It was a job where I learned how to work with people. How to deal with stress and time management. Skills that have hopefully helped me over the past 30 years. Then I worked construction. Hard physical work during the summer. Then, work on a trash truck during the hot summer days, running from stop to stop so I could stay in good physical shape and….the faster I worked the sooner I could get to the gym to play basketball. Then I was a boiler cleaner outer. A dirty hot job, but one in which I learned that I wanted an education so I would not have to do this my entire life. Then it was Dillard’s as a suit salesman. Learning people skills.
Your job can be fun and enjoyable if you have the right attitude and use it as a ministry to others.
In our Young Professionals class, we pray each Sunday that God will use us in our variety of jobs, occupations and as college students to be that light in this dark world.
Each day I pray that God will use me as his instrument. He knows those I will come in contact with and those that need a smile or affirmation.
How about you? Job getting you down? How about trying a new approach - being positive and led by God as He gives you opportunities to minister to those around you.
Satisfaction
Happiness
Why are so many miserable in this world? People today live in a society that offers everything that you could ever possibly want but individuals are increasingly more depressed and unhappier than ever before.
Why have we made the decision that we need more and more stuff to be truly happy? I often tell young people to enjoy every job that they have because you will learn many work strategies and skills that will help you in your future occupations.
I can truly say that I have enjoyed every job that I have ever had. I started out cooking hamburgers at Burger Chef at Woodlands Hills Mall in Tulsa when I was 16. It was a job where I learned how to work with people. How to deal with stress and time management. Skills that have hopefully helped me over the past 30 years. Then I worked construction. Hard physical work during the summer. Then, work on a trash truck during the hot summer days, running from stop to stop so I could stay in good physical shape and….the faster I worked the sooner I could get to the gym to play basketball. Then I was a boiler cleaner outer. A dirty hot job, but one in which I learned that I wanted an education so I would not have to do this my entire life. Then it was Dillard’s as a suit salesman. Learning people skills.
Your job can be fun and enjoyable if you have the right attitude and use it as a ministry to others.
In our Young Professionals class, we pray each Sunday that God will use us in our variety of jobs, occupations and as college students to be that light in this dark world.
Each day I pray that God will use me as his instrument. He knows those I will come in contact with and those that need a smile or affirmation.
How about you? Job getting you down? How about trying a new approach - being positive and led by God as He gives you opportunities to minister to those around you.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Thought for the Day
Unity will expand the kingdom of God, help us become missionaries in every land and culture, and bring people to Christ, who teaches that unity and love draw people to himself.
Mike Cope
Mike Cope
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Monday, August 25, 2008
Sand and Stone
TWO FRIENDS WERE WALKING
THROUGH THE DESERT.
DURING SOME POINT OF THE
JOURNEY, THEY HAD AN
ARGUMENT; AND ONE FRIEND
SLAPPED THE OTHER ONE
IN THE FACE.
THE ONE WHO GOT SLAPPED
WAS HURT, BUT WITHOUT
SAYING ANYTHING,
WROTE IN THE SAND:
TODAY MY BEST FRIEND
SLAPPED ME IN THE FACE.
THEY KEPT ON WALKING,
UNTIL THEY FOUND AN OASIS,
WHERE THEY DECIDED
TO TAKE A BATH
THE ONE WHO HAD BEEN
SLAPPED GOT STUCK IN THE
MIRE AND STARTED DROWNING,
BUT THE FRIEND SAVED HIM.
AFTER HE RECOVERED FROM
THE NEAR DROWNING,
HE W ROTE ON A STONE:
"TODAY MY BEST FRIEND
SAVED MY LIFE ".
THE FRIEND WHO HAD SLAPPED
AND SAVED HIS BEST FRIEND
ASKED HIM, "A FTER I HURT YOU,
YOU WROTE IN THE SAND AND NOW,
YOU WRITE ON A STONE, WHY?"
THE FRIEND REPLIED
"WHEN SOMEONE HURTS US
WE SHOULD WRITE IT DOWN
IN SAND, WHERE WINDS OF
FORGIVENESS CAN ERASE IT AWAY.
BUT, WHEN SOMEONE DOES
SOMETHING GOOD FOR US,
WE MUST ENGRAVE IT IN STONE
WHERE NO WIND
CAN EVER ERASE IT."
LEARN TO WRITE
YOUR HURTS IN
THE SAND AND TO
CARVE YOUR
BENEFITS IN STONE.
THROUGH THE DESERT.
DURING SOME POINT OF THE
JOURNEY, THEY HAD AN
ARGUMENT; AND ONE FRIEND
SLAPPED THE OTHER ONE
IN THE FACE.
THE ONE WHO GOT SLAPPED
WAS HURT, BUT WITHOUT
SAYING ANYTHING,
WROTE IN THE SAND:
TODAY MY BEST FRIEND
SLAPPED ME IN THE FACE.
THEY KEPT ON WALKING,
UNTIL THEY FOUND AN OASIS,
WHERE THEY DECIDED
TO TAKE A BATH
THE ONE WHO HAD BEEN
SLAPPED GOT STUCK IN THE
MIRE AND STARTED DROWNING,
BUT THE FRIEND SAVED HIM.
AFTER HE RECOVERED FROM
THE NEAR DROWNING,
HE W ROTE ON A STONE:
"TODAY MY BEST FRIEND
SAVED MY LIFE ".
THE FRIEND WHO HAD SLAPPED
AND SAVED HIS BEST FRIEND
ASKED HIM, "A FTER I HURT YOU,
YOU WROTE IN THE SAND AND NOW,
YOU WRITE ON A STONE, WHY?"
THE FRIEND REPLIED
"WHEN SOMEONE HURTS US
WE SHOULD WRITE IT DOWN
IN SAND, WHERE WINDS OF
FORGIVENESS CAN ERASE IT AWAY.
BUT, WHEN SOMEONE DOES
SOMETHING GOOD FOR US,
WE MUST ENGRAVE IT IN STONE
WHERE NO WIND
CAN EVER ERASE IT."
LEARN TO WRITE
YOUR HURTS IN
THE SAND AND TO
CARVE YOUR
BENEFITS IN STONE.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Order of Worship
Welcome
Psalm 29 (Kevin Johnston)
797 Lord, We Come Before Thee Now (Verse 1 and 4)
578 We Will Glorify
These Are the Days of Elijah
Prayer
Scripture: Zechariah 12:10 and 13:1 (Kevin)
324 Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed
Lords Supper
Contribution
Scripture: Psalm 46:1-10
31 Be Still and Know
689 Be Still, my Soul
Message Evan Burdan
Invitation 116 God Will Make a Way (Sing Twice)
Announcements
648 Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus (Verse 1 and 3)
Closing Prayer (Kevin)
Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-13a (Kevin)
Psalm 29 (Kevin Johnston)
797 Lord, We Come Before Thee Now (Verse 1 and 4)
578 We Will Glorify
These Are the Days of Elijah
Prayer
Scripture: Zechariah 12:10 and 13:1 (Kevin)
324 Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed
Lords Supper
Contribution
Scripture: Psalm 46:1-10
31 Be Still and Know
689 Be Still, my Soul
Message Evan Burdan
Invitation 116 God Will Make a Way (Sing Twice)
Announcements
648 Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus (Verse 1 and 3)
Closing Prayer (Kevin)
Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-13a (Kevin)
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Craig Have A Great School Year!
Craig made it back to the big city yesterday afternoon. He starts his sophomore year at the University of New York's Fashion Institute of Technology. We took this pic from FIT last year. This year he lives on the 15th floor in the FIT apartment tower with a view of the Hudson River.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Developing Community
Here is a interesting point of view from Pete Rollins. What do you think?
Indeed often the most destructive element in the development of a community arises from the very statement that one is attempting to build a community. For what can so often happen is that those who need the most help join up in the hope that they will find support and encouragement. The result is that, for many fledgling groups, this places too high an emotional demand too early and leads to burnout.
To develop a healthy community, the best approach can actually involve being clear that one is not starting a community at all and that there will be no pastoral support, that no one will be charged with the job of taking in money and distributing it on people’s behalf, and that no one will be responsible for calling you up if you stop attending events. In short, it must be clear that the group does not care about people’s needs in the slightest. While this may sound deeply uncaring, the reason for stating this is precisely in order to help provide a healthy soil for real pastoral and financial support to grow.
Providing a space with no welcoming team or pastoral support group means that individuals need to take responsibility for welcoming and caring for others themselves. Here the role of those setting up the group is not to create a new priest/laity divide but rather to refuse to act in the role of a priest precisely so as to encourage a priesthood of all believers, offering relational, mutually dependent, pastoral support. This does not mean there is no place for leadership, for here the leader is the one who attempts to prevent any one person, including the leader, from taking over the space and taking on the role of some high priest. In such a space there is a radical refusal, by those who organize the gathering, to take on pastoral responsibility. For by refusing the place of power, the “pastors” equip everyone to be a pastor, simultaneously discouraging an unhealthy dependency in those who attend.
Indeed often the most destructive element in the development of a community arises from the very statement that one is attempting to build a community. For what can so often happen is that those who need the most help join up in the hope that they will find support and encouragement. The result is that, for many fledgling groups, this places too high an emotional demand too early and leads to burnout.
To develop a healthy community, the best approach can actually involve being clear that one is not starting a community at all and that there will be no pastoral support, that no one will be charged with the job of taking in money and distributing it on people’s behalf, and that no one will be responsible for calling you up if you stop attending events. In short, it must be clear that the group does not care about people’s needs in the slightest. While this may sound deeply uncaring, the reason for stating this is precisely in order to help provide a healthy soil for real pastoral and financial support to grow.
Providing a space with no welcoming team or pastoral support group means that individuals need to take responsibility for welcoming and caring for others themselves. Here the role of those setting up the group is not to create a new priest/laity divide but rather to refuse to act in the role of a priest precisely so as to encourage a priesthood of all believers, offering relational, mutually dependent, pastoral support. This does not mean there is no place for leadership, for here the leader is the one who attempts to prevent any one person, including the leader, from taking over the space and taking on the role of some high priest. In such a space there is a radical refusal, by those who organize the gathering, to take on pastoral responsibility. For by refusing the place of power, the “pastors” equip everyone to be a pastor, simultaneously discouraging an unhealthy dependency in those who attend.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Brian....this story is for you!
I recently ran across a story originally published in the Des Moines Register. Truck driver Ryan Albright arrived early in the morning at Trinity Medical Hospital in Rock Island, Illinois, to make one of his 45 deliveries. He left the truck running as he ran in for his delivery.
Police say that Frank Alvarado, a patient at the hospital, was waiting in the bushes. As Albright went in the building, Alvarado jumped into the delivery van and sped off to the west.
Eventually, nine officers from four jurisdictions in two states would join the chase. At speeds up to 100 mph, they eventually apprehended Alvarado 135 miles later, in Toledo, Iowa.
Police theorize that Alvarado might have wanted to get out of the hospital…that he was unstable…or that he was just hungry for what was in the truck.
Law enforcement officers made out good…the owner of the company running the truck gave the remaining product to the police and deputies…they ate all the doughnuts they wanted!
Imagine the sight of all those officers chasing after the doughnut delivery truck. Really, how silly did that look?
Police say that Frank Alvarado, a patient at the hospital, was waiting in the bushes. As Albright went in the building, Alvarado jumped into the delivery van and sped off to the west.
Eventually, nine officers from four jurisdictions in two states would join the chase. At speeds up to 100 mph, they eventually apprehended Alvarado 135 miles later, in Toledo, Iowa.
Police theorize that Alvarado might have wanted to get out of the hospital…that he was unstable…or that he was just hungry for what was in the truck.
Law enforcement officers made out good…the owner of the company running the truck gave the remaining product to the police and deputies…they ate all the doughnuts they wanted!
Imagine the sight of all those officers chasing after the doughnut delivery truck. Really, how silly did that look?
Friday, August 15, 2008
Thursday, August 14, 2008
First Day of School
I begin my 17th first day of school in Osage City today. Every first day brings excitement and a few butterflies in my stomach. My prayer every year is for our students, teachers and staff to have a year of educational excellence and one that is safe and fulfilling.
I just try to stay out of the way and support them with the best available resources that I can.
As I told my staff today, "only 184 days until Summer Vacation!"
I just try to stay out of the way and support them with the best available resources that I can.
As I told my staff today, "only 184 days until Summer Vacation!"
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
More on Complaining
One of the funniest movies about a complainer is Groundhog Day. It stars Bill Murray as a sarcastic weatherman who is obviously unhappy with his life. He is an habitual complainer. Although I don’t agree with all the morals in the movie, the ending has a great one. Bill Murray’s character has to keep living the same day over and over until he lives it right. Finally he realizes the secret to living Groundhog Day right is to become an habitual servant. When he goes out of his way to HELP others instead of complaining and being self-centered, he gets a new day to live. Boy, wouldn’t that be a fantastic lesson for some people we know!
Monday, August 11, 2008
Complaining
The YP Class started a four week series yesterday called "Zip It". A study on complaining. Its easy to complain and not be positive about situations in our lives, but the Bible is full of instances where God took action when His people complained.
As we begin a new week and a new school year, let's stay positive and look at the good in people and in our own lives as we shine our lights in this cold, dark world.
"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing". Philippians 2:14-16, New International Version
As we begin a new week and a new school year, let's stay positive and look at the good in people and in our own lives as we shine our lights in this cold, dark world.
"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing". Philippians 2:14-16, New International Version
Thursday, August 07, 2008
Thought for the Day
"Every ball team could use a man who plays every position perfectly, who never strikes out, and never makes an error. But there's no way to get him to lay down his hot dog and come out of the stands"
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Vacation
Vacation is about over for all my teachers, staff and principals. They are busy getting ready for school.
Keep our Central kids and school personnel in your prayers as we begin the new school year.
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Quote for the Day
" Many of life's failures are men who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up."
Monday, August 04, 2008
A Family Weekend
We had our last family weekend of the summer with my parents, Mike, Doreen and Emma on Friday and Saturday.
We brought home over 36 catfish and enjoyed every one of them.
The school count down has started only 10 days to go.............
Friday, August 01, 2008
Order of Worship
Order of Worship
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Welcome (Gary)
Scripture: Isaiah 51:11-16 (Kevin)
869 We-re Marching to Zion (Verse 1 and 4)
227 On Zion’s Glorious Summit
100 Holy Ground
Prayer
Scripture: Matthew 16:13-16 (Kevin)
185 Jesus, Thy Name I Love
186 Christ, we Do All Adore Thee
Communion
Contribution
Dismiss: Children’s Worship
Scripture: Romans 12:3-5 (Kevin)
Song: We Are the Body of Christ
Message (Evan)
Invitation 768 Jesus Let Us Come To Know You
Announcements
Song: Light the Fire
Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16 (Kevin)
Closing Prayer
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Welcome (Gary)
Scripture: Isaiah 51:11-16 (Kevin)
869 We-re Marching to Zion (Verse 1 and 4)
227 On Zion’s Glorious Summit
100 Holy Ground
Prayer
Scripture: Matthew 16:13-16 (Kevin)
185 Jesus, Thy Name I Love
186 Christ, we Do All Adore Thee
Communion
Contribution
Dismiss: Children’s Worship
Scripture: Romans 12:3-5 (Kevin)
Song: We Are the Body of Christ
Message (Evan)
Invitation 768 Jesus Let Us Come To Know You
Announcements
Song: Light the Fire
Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16 (Kevin)
Closing Prayer
Thursday, July 31, 2008
As the Sun Rises in the East
What a sunrise I saw on Tuesday morning. The colors, the power of the sun coming up through the clouds. It displayed the mighty power of our Creator.
I always think about the words to this song when I see a sunrise..............
As the sun rises in the east
He shall split the eastern sky
Sword in hand upon the mountain
Fire of heaven in His eyes
(Chorus)
And every knee shall bow (Every knee shall bow)
Every knee shall bow (Every knee shall bow)
We kneel before Him now (We kneel before Him now)
And every knee shall bow
Come the dawn of the Prince of Peace
Like the morning after rain
There shall be no more of hatred
Neither sorrow, neither pain
(Chorus)
And every knee shall bow (Every knee shall bow)
Every knee shall bow (Every knee shall bow)
We kneel before Him now (We kneel before Him now)
And every knee shall bow
I always think about the words to this song when I see a sunrise..............
As the sun rises in the east
He shall split the eastern sky
Sword in hand upon the mountain
Fire of heaven in His eyes
(Chorus)
And every knee shall bow (Every knee shall bow)
Every knee shall bow (Every knee shall bow)
We kneel before Him now (We kneel before Him now)
And every knee shall bow
Come the dawn of the Prince of Peace
Like the morning after rain
There shall be no more of hatred
Neither sorrow, neither pain
(Chorus)
And every knee shall bow (Every knee shall bow)
Every knee shall bow (Every knee shall bow)
We kneel before Him now (We kneel before Him now)
And every knee shall bow
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Now What?
Have you ever prayed so hard for something, prayed with faith, then sat back and waited for God’s answer?
You waited…and waited…and waited. Until one day you began wondering “Why hasn’t God answered my prayers?”
After all, we have all heard sermons in church throughout the years that give us the keys to an effective prayer life. Follow the steps, one, two, three, and you are guaranteed an answer.
Indeed, God will answer all of our prayers; but what those sermons, and we, often forget is that “no” is an answer, also.
What do you do? What does it mean? How do you handle it when God says “no”?
Over the past few years the Central Church of Christ has been praying for God’s direction as we sale the building and look at relocating to our new property on Burlingame Road.
We felt everything was finally in place the past few weeks as things were progressing to sale this building and meet in temporary facilities this Fall. Prayers were being lifted up by members of the congregation for the Elders for direction and guidance in this significant challenge and new beginning for the Central congregation. Then just last week, God said “no”.
We often forget that God often says “no” to some of our prayer requests. We might be disappointed and even at times confused, but we know God has even greater plans for HIS Church if we accept and allow Him to work among His people.
So what do we do now? We keep being the Central Church of Christ. We keep being a body that Accepts Christ. We continue to build up each other in our fellowship, worship and time we are together. We continue to be a committed body serving others each day. We continue to be the Central Church.
It doesn’t matter if we meet at the corner of Huntoon and College or South Burlingame Road we want to shine God’s light throughout the northeast Kansas area.
God has great plans for us. It will be an exciting journey……………………
(I wrote this last Saturday night before Jerry made his announcement on Sunday morning)
You waited…and waited…and waited. Until one day you began wondering “Why hasn’t God answered my prayers?”
After all, we have all heard sermons in church throughout the years that give us the keys to an effective prayer life. Follow the steps, one, two, three, and you are guaranteed an answer.
Indeed, God will answer all of our prayers; but what those sermons, and we, often forget is that “no” is an answer, also.
What do you do? What does it mean? How do you handle it when God says “no”?
Over the past few years the Central Church of Christ has been praying for God’s direction as we sale the building and look at relocating to our new property on Burlingame Road.
We felt everything was finally in place the past few weeks as things were progressing to sale this building and meet in temporary facilities this Fall. Prayers were being lifted up by members of the congregation for the Elders for direction and guidance in this significant challenge and new beginning for the Central congregation. Then just last week, God said “no”.
We often forget that God often says “no” to some of our prayer requests. We might be disappointed and even at times confused, but we know God has even greater plans for HIS Church if we accept and allow Him to work among His people.
So what do we do now? We keep being the Central Church of Christ. We keep being a body that Accepts Christ. We continue to build up each other in our fellowship, worship and time we are together. We continue to be a committed body serving others each day. We continue to be the Central Church.
It doesn’t matter if we meet at the corner of Huntoon and College or South Burlingame Road we want to shine God’s light throughout the northeast Kansas area.
God has great plans for us. It will be an exciting journey……………………
(I wrote this last Saturday night before Jerry made his announcement on Sunday morning)
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Boy's are Pretty Smart!
A clergyman was walking down the street when he came upon a group of about a dozen boys, all of them between 10 and 12 years of age. The group surrounded a dog. Concerned that the boys were hurting the dog, he went over and asked, "What are you doing with that dog?" One of the boys replied, "This dog is just an old neighborhood stray. We all want him, but only one of us can take him home. So we've decided that whichever one of us can tell the biggest lie will get to keep the dog."Of course, the reverend was taken aback. "You boys shouldn't be having a contest telling lies!" he exclaimed. He then launched into a ten minute sermon against lying, beginning, "Don't you boys know it's a sin to lie," and ending with, "Why, when I was your age, I never told a lie." There was dead silence for about a minute. Just as the reverend was beginning to think he'd gotten through to them, the smallest boy gave a deep sigh and said, "All right, give the preacher the dog."
Monday, July 28, 2008
Vacation Recap
We had a great vacation last week. Played golf in four different states.
We left around 6:00 a.m. last Sunday and made it to Nixa, Missouri to worship with the Union Hill Church of Christ. It is a relatively new congregation that was started by the Sunset Church of Christ in Springfield. This church has seen significant growth in only 8 short years and has over 350 members. We really enjoyed visiting with these great Christians.
Our golf vacation was very enjoyable. On Monday we played the new Murder Rock course at Branson and loved every minute of it. The course was beautiful. Playing on top of the Ozark Mountains was one Kodak Moment after another. The only problem all 40+ pictures we took didn't turn out. We had a bad memory card. Very disappointing but as I stated to Debbie....we will just have to play it again.
On Tuesday and Wednesday we played our old favorite course Carroll County Country Club in Berryville, Arkansas. We played 54 holes on Tuesday and only 45 on Wednesday. We couldn't start until 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday because of early morning showers.
Thursday we played a new golf course called Peoria Ridge in Miami, Oklahoma. A tough course that at the end of the day I was glad the agony was over.
On Friday we decided to play one last round at the Garnett Country Club here in Kansas.
Debbie and I had a great time celebrating our anniversary all week. We enjoyed getting away and being together. Great food, great golf and our favorite ice cream place in Eureka Springs.
We played a total of 171 holes of golf.
Tired but looking forward to our golf excursion next year.
We left around 6:00 a.m. last Sunday and made it to Nixa, Missouri to worship with the Union Hill Church of Christ. It is a relatively new congregation that was started by the Sunset Church of Christ in Springfield. This church has seen significant growth in only 8 short years and has over 350 members. We really enjoyed visiting with these great Christians.
Our golf vacation was very enjoyable. On Monday we played the new Murder Rock course at Branson and loved every minute of it. The course was beautiful. Playing on top of the Ozark Mountains was one Kodak Moment after another. The only problem all 40+ pictures we took didn't turn out. We had a bad memory card. Very disappointing but as I stated to Debbie....we will just have to play it again.
On Tuesday and Wednesday we played our old favorite course Carroll County Country Club in Berryville, Arkansas. We played 54 holes on Tuesday and only 45 on Wednesday. We couldn't start until 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday because of early morning showers.
Thursday we played a new golf course called Peoria Ridge in Miami, Oklahoma. A tough course that at the end of the day I was glad the agony was over.
On Friday we decided to play one last round at the Garnett Country Club here in Kansas.
Debbie and I had a great time celebrating our anniversary all week. We enjoyed getting away and being together. Great food, great golf and our favorite ice cream place in Eureka Springs.
We played a total of 171 holes of golf.
Tired but looking forward to our golf excursion next year.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Vacation
It is time for our annual golf vacation to Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma. We will leave early Sunday morning so we can worship in Springfield, Missouri.
The highlight will be 18 holes of golf at John Daly's new golf course in Branson called Murder Rock.
We will try to play 63 holes of golf (that would be our record for one day) on Tuesday and Wednesday at our favorite course in Berryville, Arkansas. I hope my arm doesn't fall off! Debbie makes it better than I do. Thursday golf in Miami, Oklahoma, then one more round Friday in Harrisonville, Missouri.
Lots of good food at Bubba's, Catfish Wharf and other places.
But the best part......spending time with Debbie as we enjoy the great outdoors.
We hope to see a couple of movies as well.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Unity
How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down upon the collar of his robes. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.
Psalm 133
Harmony within the family of God shows that we are dedicated to serving God wholeheartedly. When we live in community, we mirror God’s nature of community among the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and his nature of love and selflessness.
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. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
Romans 15:5-6
The Roman church was an extremely diverse community. It was made up of Jews and Gentiles, slaves and free people, rich and poor, former idol worshippers, prostitutes, and every type of sinner. We can imagine from our own experience how difficult it must have been for them to accept one another.
My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
John 17:20-23
Psalm 133
Harmony within the family of God shows that we are dedicated to serving God wholeheartedly. When we live in community, we mirror God’s nature of community among the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and his nature of love and selflessness.
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. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
Romans 15:5-6
The Roman church was an extremely diverse community. It was made up of Jews and Gentiles, slaves and free people, rich and poor, former idol worshippers, prostitutes, and every type of sinner. We can imagine from our own experience how difficult it must have been for them to accept one another.
My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
John 17:20-23
Monday, July 14, 2008
Thought for the Day
At the end of the day, when I am lying in bed and I know the chances of any of our theology being exactly right are a million to one, I need to know that God has things figured out, that if my math is wrong we are still going to be okay. And wonder is that feeling we get when we let go of our silly answers, our mapped out rules that we want God to follow. I don't think there is any better worship than wonder.
Donald Miller
Blue Like Jazz
Donald Miller
Blue Like Jazz
Friday, July 11, 2008
Read Your Bible and Pray Everyday, And You'll Grow, Grow, Grow!
According to a Harris poll conducted in April, the Bible remains the all-time favorite book of a majority of Americans, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. (For those who are wondering, number 2 is Gone with the Wind, followed by the Lord of the Rings trilogy.)
This news is heart-warming, but mind-troubling. For few Americans seem to read their favorite book.
Biblical illiteracy is growing, especially among the young. A 2004 Gallup survey of teens revealed that two-thirds couldn't place "Blessed are the poor in spirit" in the Sermon on the Mount, or recall what happened on the road to Damascus. An earlier poll conducted by George Barna showed an ignorance or rejection of basic Christian doctrines (such as the sinlessness of Christ) among a significant number of self-identified Christians.
This news is heart-warming, but mind-troubling. For few Americans seem to read their favorite book.
Biblical illiteracy is growing, especially among the young. A 2004 Gallup survey of teens revealed that two-thirds couldn't place "Blessed are the poor in spirit" in the Sermon on the Mount, or recall what happened on the road to Damascus. An earlier poll conducted by George Barna showed an ignorance or rejection of basic Christian doctrines (such as the sinlessness of Christ) among a significant number of self-identified Christians.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Rejection
One of my favorite things to do during the summer is be outside and garden. We have grape vines that produce great purple grapes. Deb makes jelly out of them.
The story I shared with the high school and middle school class on Wednesday evening is about a individual who owns a vineyard where grapes are grown and his tenants who were greedy and violent individuals.
It’s a story about rejection.
It would make a great movie.
One of the worst feelings in the world is to be rejected by someone. We have all experienced it. Friends at school. Maybe a family member. Maybe a brother or sister in Christ who you thought was a true friend.
The Parable of the Tenants
Matthew 21:33-46 (New International Version)
33"Listen to another parable: There was a landowner who planted a vineyard. He put a wall around it, dug a winepress in it and built a watchtower. Then he rented the vineyard to some farmers and went away on a journey. 34When the harvest time approached, he sent his servants to the tenants to collect his fruit.
35"The tenants seized his servants; they beat one, killed another, and stoned a third. 36Then he sent other servants to them, more than the first time, and the tenants treated them the same way. 37Last of all, he sent his son to them. 'They will respect my son,' he said.
38"But when the tenants saw the son, they said to each other, 'This is the heir. Come, let's kill him and take his inheritance.' 39So they took him and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him.
40"Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?"
41"He will bring those wretches to a wretched end," they replied, "and he will rent the vineyard to other tenants, who will give him his share of the crop at harvest time."
42Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures: " 'The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes'?
43"Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit. 44He who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces, but he on whom it falls will be crushed." 45When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard Jesus' parables, they knew he was talking about them. 46They looked for a way to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowd because the people held that he was a prophet.
This parable is about rejection. The illustration of a landowner who uses his money, time, and resources to build a business of making wine is a parallel on how our Lord was received and treated.
This business was necessary and essential in that time. Others sought to take advantage and then tried to take it away. The landowner put forth efforts and sought others to care for his property. When he sent messengers to collect what was his, they rejected the messengers.
They not only rejected, they became violent, even resorting to murder to get their way and not seek his. Even though it was his vineyard, they only saw it as opportunity to get something without using their own money, labor, or efforts. They wanted for themselves what they were not wiling to strive for. When the landowner sent his son, he expected better treatment; but their true wickedness showed as they killed him, too.
The tenants represent the people whom God brought out of Egypt and slavery, and gave them a land they did not make. God sent His Law and prophets, and they beat and killed them; when God sent His Son, they were to do the same.
A messiah was promised and they killed both the messenger, John the Baptist, and Christ. They sought their own greed. They did not honor or respect the things and call of God.
We do this daily in our selfish walks of life. Rejecting the one who in turn blesses us daily and gives us that second chance.
The story I shared with the high school and middle school class on Wednesday evening is about a individual who owns a vineyard where grapes are grown and his tenants who were greedy and violent individuals.
It’s a story about rejection.
It would make a great movie.
One of the worst feelings in the world is to be rejected by someone. We have all experienced it. Friends at school. Maybe a family member. Maybe a brother or sister in Christ who you thought was a true friend.
The Parable of the Tenants
Matthew 21:33-46 (New International Version)
33"Listen to another parable: There was a landowner who planted a vineyard. He put a wall around it, dug a winepress in it and built a watchtower. Then he rented the vineyard to some farmers and went away on a journey. 34When the harvest time approached, he sent his servants to the tenants to collect his fruit.
35"The tenants seized his servants; they beat one, killed another, and stoned a third. 36Then he sent other servants to them, more than the first time, and the tenants treated them the same way. 37Last of all, he sent his son to them. 'They will respect my son,' he said.
38"But when the tenants saw the son, they said to each other, 'This is the heir. Come, let's kill him and take his inheritance.' 39So they took him and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him.
40"Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?"
41"He will bring those wretches to a wretched end," they replied, "and he will rent the vineyard to other tenants, who will give him his share of the crop at harvest time."
42Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures: " 'The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes'?
43"Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit. 44He who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces, but he on whom it falls will be crushed." 45When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard Jesus' parables, they knew he was talking about them. 46They looked for a way to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowd because the people held that he was a prophet.
This parable is about rejection. The illustration of a landowner who uses his money, time, and resources to build a business of making wine is a parallel on how our Lord was received and treated.
This business was necessary and essential in that time. Others sought to take advantage and then tried to take it away. The landowner put forth efforts and sought others to care for his property. When he sent messengers to collect what was his, they rejected the messengers.
They not only rejected, they became violent, even resorting to murder to get their way and not seek his. Even though it was his vineyard, they only saw it as opportunity to get something without using their own money, labor, or efforts. They wanted for themselves what they were not wiling to strive for. When the landowner sent his son, he expected better treatment; but their true wickedness showed as they killed him, too.
The tenants represent the people whom God brought out of Egypt and slavery, and gave them a land they did not make. God sent His Law and prophets, and they beat and killed them; when God sent His Son, they were to do the same.
A messiah was promised and they killed both the messenger, John the Baptist, and Christ. They sought their own greed. They did not honor or respect the things and call of God.
We do this daily in our selfish walks of life. Rejecting the one who in turn blesses us daily and gives us that second chance.
Monday, July 07, 2008
What We Think About Matters
We are often foolish in our thinking. We allow Satan access into our minds by thinking on the wrong things. We think too often about self. Material possessions become objects of every thought. We spend time thinking about the wrong things and our actions prove it.
What if we began to spend more time thinking about God and His word? Our minds would be filled with good. Our minds would be renewed. Our minds would be prepared. Our actions/behavior would be different. Right thinking would reign.
Someone has said that wrong thoughts are like birds. You can’t keep them from flying over your head, but you can keep them from building nests in your hair. We can be victorious over our enemy with God’s help. We can be ruled by good. What we think about matters!
Jay Taylor
Irving, Texas
What if we began to spend more time thinking about God and His word? Our minds would be filled with good. Our minds would be renewed. Our minds would be prepared. Our actions/behavior would be different. Right thinking would reign.
Someone has said that wrong thoughts are like birds. You can’t keep them from flying over your head, but you can keep them from building nests in your hair. We can be victorious over our enemy with God’s help. We can be ruled by good. What we think about matters!
Jay Taylor
Irving, Texas
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Emma
My neice Emma played her last softball game this week. Here she shows off her medal she received..................
The TV Event of the Year!
The 4th wouldn't be the 4th without the annual Hot Dog eating Contest from Coney Island.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Lightning Rods
Some speakers are lightning rods.
By that I mean to have some men on lectureships, workshops, or invited to speak at local congregations is to cause disruption due to what radical things they might say. Such are known as lightning rods; they will attract criticism and the Lord knows that's one thing we sure don't stand for in the true church. After all, He never was involved in such reckless speakers.Or was He?
Regardless of how careful leaders of any of the above venues desire to be, they can count on one thing: God will wreck our lives on occasion. Do you really think that Jesus, Peter, James, John, and Paul were not lightning rods? Do you really believe each was tossed into prison for double parking their camels? Do you really believe they were careful not to offend their audience? Do you really believe they never ruffled feathers?
No, theirs was a much different climate than ours. We have so established the true church that we have weeded out the lightning rods. No storms allowed among some. Peaceful like cemeteries....that's our motto. By the way....where are our children going to church once they graduate from high school and get out on their own?
I know....just another blog post from a lightning rod.
Terry Rush
Memorial Drive Church of Christ-Tulsa
By that I mean to have some men on lectureships, workshops, or invited to speak at local congregations is to cause disruption due to what radical things they might say. Such are known as lightning rods; they will attract criticism and the Lord knows that's one thing we sure don't stand for in the true church. After all, He never was involved in such reckless speakers.Or was He?
Regardless of how careful leaders of any of the above venues desire to be, they can count on one thing: God will wreck our lives on occasion. Do you really think that Jesus, Peter, James, John, and Paul were not lightning rods? Do you really believe each was tossed into prison for double parking their camels? Do you really believe they were careful not to offend their audience? Do you really believe they never ruffled feathers?
No, theirs was a much different climate than ours. We have so established the true church that we have weeded out the lightning rods. No storms allowed among some. Peaceful like cemeteries....that's our motto. By the way....where are our children going to church once they graduate from high school and get out on their own?
I know....just another blog post from a lightning rod.
Terry Rush
Memorial Drive Church of Christ-Tulsa
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
4th of July Week
This is a big week for the Carriger Family. Some celebrate Christmas, some birthdays, others Valentine's day......the Carriger Family tries to blow up the neighborhood each 4th of July in Osage City. My entire family descends on our place for our annual catfish fry, BBQ and fireworks extravaganza celebrating the 4th. It lasts the entire week! A lot of laughs and stories have resulted in this annual festival. Only problem....I have to work every day and can't be there until the evening hours. Tough life!
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Monday, June 23, 2008
Manhattan Church of Christ
Great article about the congregation where Craig attends in New York City.................
Manhattan congregation reflects melting pot nature of New York City
By Bobby Ross Jr. The Christian Chronicle
NEW YORK - No fried chicken. No hamburger casserole. No Jell-O salad.The titillating smells emanating from the fourth floor of the Manhattan Church of Christ on a recent Sunday reflected a more international flavor.The menu included Korean-style scallion pancakes, English scones and cucumber sandwiches, Nigerian bean cakes and Guyanese fish cakes.At the church’s International Day, members representing two dozen nationalities donned native attire and set up displays showcasing their home countries.“One thing brings you together, and that’s the blood of Christ,” said Effiong Akpan, a Nigerian wearing a light blue robe known as an agbada. “This is exactly what God intended when he said that all nations should flow unto him.” 'BREAKING BARRIERSAlmost 83, John Rainbow couldn’t help but smile as children and adults marched into the first-floor auditorium carrying signs of their native lands.As the congregation sang “Jesus Loves the Little Children” in English and Spanish, there were plenty of “red and yellow, black and white” faces to match the words of the song.“I thank God,” Rainbow said.An African-American who made a living in his younger years singing ballads and love songs, Rainbow first came to the congregation in 1957 hoping to meet entertainer Pat Boone, then the church’s song leader.But in the church, Rainbow encountered the prejudice of that era. A white elder’s wife would change pews if a black man such as Rainbow sat down beside her. One man hurled racial slurs.However, the late Burton Coffman, the minister from 1954 to 1971, gripped Rainbow’s hand, looked him in the eye and told him to keep coming back.“Don’t let anybody drive you away,” Rainbow recalls Coffman telling him. And Rainbow didn’t.He later served 10 years as the church’s song leader and remains a faithful member. At International Day, the congregation applauded as Rainbow stood to be recognized for the barriers that he helped break down.RICH AND POORJust a short walk from Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s $13.5 million townhouse, the Upper East Side church occupies one of America’s richest ZIP codes.Yet, through a ministry called Community of Hope, the congregation welcomes homeless people into the building each Friday and the second Saturday of each month. The guests shower, eat, rest, study the Bible and watch movies at the church.“Even though it’s a very wealthy area, there’s a lot of homeless people that live in the area,” said Thomas L. Robinson, senior minister and one of five elders. “As far as breaking down barriers, that kind of barrier — the socioeconomic barrier — is at least as difficult as the racial and ethnic barriers.”Believing God calls all people unto him, the church works actively to build a community that overcomes the ethnic, socioeconomic, gender and racial barriers that divide humankind, church leaders said.The church’s two English services and separate Spanish assembly draw nearly 400 worshipers each Sunday morning. A bilingual service is conducted on the third Sunday of each month.Member Selina Law, who organized International Day, said she expects heaven to look a lot like the Manhattan church.“When people come here, it doesn’t really matter where you’re from,” said Law, a Hong Kong native. “You just feel comfortable and you fit in, and that’s a good feeling.”The congregation mixes investment bankers, lawyers and heart surgeons with taxi drivers, police officers and computer specialists. Well-known attendees include Lester Holt of NBC News and, when he’s in town, Yankees broadcaster Bobby Murcer.“Our overall membership includes only some 100-125 members who were raised within the Church of Christ,” said elder David Swearingen, a third-generation member from Idaho and vice president of corporate communications with Johnson & Johnson. “Virtually all of the others converted from other faiths — principally Catholics, with a few Jewish conversions, as well as Hindu, one former Muslim and several Christian denominations,” said Swearingen, a graduate of Pepperdine University in Malibu, Calif.Colombian-born minister Hugo Monroy, who works with New York area church planters and the Manhattan church’s Hispanic ministry, touted the blessings of diversity.“We have the opportunity to taste different foods, to hear of different ways of doing things, different ways of thinking and behaving,” said Monroy, who grew up Catholic and became an atheist before his baptism at a Church of Christ.A graduate of Abilene Christian University in Texas, he described getting to know a Jewish family who converted to Christianity and how that relationship helped him learn more about Hebrew culture. Four years ago, he started joining the Jewish family for Passover celebrations.“My wife Sandra and I have not missed one Passover since then,” Monroy said.AN OPPORTUNITY, AND A CHALLENGEChristian Francis, a 22-year-old African-American who grew up in Brooklyn, flashed a wide smile as he greeted South Korean natives Bok-Hee Meixner and Lauren Hook — both adopted as children by Americans.Francis filled his plate with kimchi — pickled cabbage with hot chili and peppers — and hugged Hook, who wore a bright pink and yellow hanbok, a traditional Korean dress. Francis, a senior biochemistry major at Abilene Christian, has attended the Manhattan church since age 6. He said the “melting pot” nature of New York City — where the Statue of Liberty still inspires hope and more than a third of the 8.2 million residents are foreign born — offers a tremendous opportunity for the church. The 43 birth nations of active Manhattan church members range from China to Cuba, Germany to Guyana, Japan to Jamaica.“I mean, you walk outside on the streets of New York and you may hear 15 languages all at once, depending on what location you’re in,” he said. In all, New Yorkers speak roughly 170 languages.At the U.S.A. display, Whitney Pettyjohn helped serve red-white-and-blue cake and “pigs in a blanket.”Pettyjohn, a white woman in her 20s, moved to the Big Apple from Oklahoma to work for a public relations company. “Especially going to my grandparents’ churches growing up — all older people, all Caucasian — I love being able to see that everyone of all shapes, all sizes, all kinds can get along as part of the church,” said Pettyjohn, an Oklahoma Christian University graduate. On Friday nights, Pettyjohn helps with the Alpha Course, a program at the church that introduces people to Christianity in a friendly, no-pressure environment.“I know a lot of churches have a problem with driving people away,” Pettyjohn said. “I feel like this congregation really pulls people to them. It’s like an attraction that you can’t explain.”In a sermon titled “From Every Tribe and Tongue and People and Nation,” based on passages in Revelation, Robinson focused on God’s vision for diversity. God, he said, made all colors and body types, communicates in all languages and understands the worship of every human culture. But in human hands, diversity too often leads to brokenness, hatred, oppression and violence, he said.“Just the fact that we’re together does not mean that we break down the barriers between us, that we make real friends or that we understand each other,” the Abilene Christian graduate preached as he urged members to heed God’s plan for renewal, peace and justice.
Manhattan congregation reflects melting pot nature of New York City
By Bobby Ross Jr. The Christian Chronicle
NEW YORK - No fried chicken. No hamburger casserole. No Jell-O salad.The titillating smells emanating from the fourth floor of the Manhattan Church of Christ on a recent Sunday reflected a more international flavor.The menu included Korean-style scallion pancakes, English scones and cucumber sandwiches, Nigerian bean cakes and Guyanese fish cakes.At the church’s International Day, members representing two dozen nationalities donned native attire and set up displays showcasing their home countries.“One thing brings you together, and that’s the blood of Christ,” said Effiong Akpan, a Nigerian wearing a light blue robe known as an agbada. “This is exactly what God intended when he said that all nations should flow unto him.” 'BREAKING BARRIERSAlmost 83, John Rainbow couldn’t help but smile as children and adults marched into the first-floor auditorium carrying signs of their native lands.As the congregation sang “Jesus Loves the Little Children” in English and Spanish, there were plenty of “red and yellow, black and white” faces to match the words of the song.“I thank God,” Rainbow said.An African-American who made a living in his younger years singing ballads and love songs, Rainbow first came to the congregation in 1957 hoping to meet entertainer Pat Boone, then the church’s song leader.But in the church, Rainbow encountered the prejudice of that era. A white elder’s wife would change pews if a black man such as Rainbow sat down beside her. One man hurled racial slurs.However, the late Burton Coffman, the minister from 1954 to 1971, gripped Rainbow’s hand, looked him in the eye and told him to keep coming back.“Don’t let anybody drive you away,” Rainbow recalls Coffman telling him. And Rainbow didn’t.He later served 10 years as the church’s song leader and remains a faithful member. At International Day, the congregation applauded as Rainbow stood to be recognized for the barriers that he helped break down.RICH AND POORJust a short walk from Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s $13.5 million townhouse, the Upper East Side church occupies one of America’s richest ZIP codes.Yet, through a ministry called Community of Hope, the congregation welcomes homeless people into the building each Friday and the second Saturday of each month. The guests shower, eat, rest, study the Bible and watch movies at the church.“Even though it’s a very wealthy area, there’s a lot of homeless people that live in the area,” said Thomas L. Robinson, senior minister and one of five elders. “As far as breaking down barriers, that kind of barrier — the socioeconomic barrier — is at least as difficult as the racial and ethnic barriers.”Believing God calls all people unto him, the church works actively to build a community that overcomes the ethnic, socioeconomic, gender and racial barriers that divide humankind, church leaders said.The church’s two English services and separate Spanish assembly draw nearly 400 worshipers each Sunday morning. A bilingual service is conducted on the third Sunday of each month.Member Selina Law, who organized International Day, said she expects heaven to look a lot like the Manhattan church.“When people come here, it doesn’t really matter where you’re from,” said Law, a Hong Kong native. “You just feel comfortable and you fit in, and that’s a good feeling.”The congregation mixes investment bankers, lawyers and heart surgeons with taxi drivers, police officers and computer specialists. Well-known attendees include Lester Holt of NBC News and, when he’s in town, Yankees broadcaster Bobby Murcer.“Our overall membership includes only some 100-125 members who were raised within the Church of Christ,” said elder David Swearingen, a third-generation member from Idaho and vice president of corporate communications with Johnson & Johnson. “Virtually all of the others converted from other faiths — principally Catholics, with a few Jewish conversions, as well as Hindu, one former Muslim and several Christian denominations,” said Swearingen, a graduate of Pepperdine University in Malibu, Calif.Colombian-born minister Hugo Monroy, who works with New York area church planters and the Manhattan church’s Hispanic ministry, touted the blessings of diversity.“We have the opportunity to taste different foods, to hear of different ways of doing things, different ways of thinking and behaving,” said Monroy, who grew up Catholic and became an atheist before his baptism at a Church of Christ.A graduate of Abilene Christian University in Texas, he described getting to know a Jewish family who converted to Christianity and how that relationship helped him learn more about Hebrew culture. Four years ago, he started joining the Jewish family for Passover celebrations.“My wife Sandra and I have not missed one Passover since then,” Monroy said.AN OPPORTUNITY, AND A CHALLENGEChristian Francis, a 22-year-old African-American who grew up in Brooklyn, flashed a wide smile as he greeted South Korean natives Bok-Hee Meixner and Lauren Hook — both adopted as children by Americans.Francis filled his plate with kimchi — pickled cabbage with hot chili and peppers — and hugged Hook, who wore a bright pink and yellow hanbok, a traditional Korean dress. Francis, a senior biochemistry major at Abilene Christian, has attended the Manhattan church since age 6. He said the “melting pot” nature of New York City — where the Statue of Liberty still inspires hope and more than a third of the 8.2 million residents are foreign born — offers a tremendous opportunity for the church. The 43 birth nations of active Manhattan church members range from China to Cuba, Germany to Guyana, Japan to Jamaica.“I mean, you walk outside on the streets of New York and you may hear 15 languages all at once, depending on what location you’re in,” he said. In all, New Yorkers speak roughly 170 languages.At the U.S.A. display, Whitney Pettyjohn helped serve red-white-and-blue cake and “pigs in a blanket.”Pettyjohn, a white woman in her 20s, moved to the Big Apple from Oklahoma to work for a public relations company. “Especially going to my grandparents’ churches growing up — all older people, all Caucasian — I love being able to see that everyone of all shapes, all sizes, all kinds can get along as part of the church,” said Pettyjohn, an Oklahoma Christian University graduate. On Friday nights, Pettyjohn helps with the Alpha Course, a program at the church that introduces people to Christianity in a friendly, no-pressure environment.“I know a lot of churches have a problem with driving people away,” Pettyjohn said. “I feel like this congregation really pulls people to them. It’s like an attraction that you can’t explain.”In a sermon titled “From Every Tribe and Tongue and People and Nation,” based on passages in Revelation, Robinson focused on God’s vision for diversity. God, he said, made all colors and body types, communicates in all languages and understands the worship of every human culture. But in human hands, diversity too often leads to brokenness, hatred, oppression and violence, he said.“Just the fact that we’re together does not mean that we break down the barriers between us, that we make real friends or that we understand each other,” the Abilene Christian graduate preached as he urged members to heed God’s plan for renewal, peace and justice.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Communion
Let a man examine himself, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup.
1 Cornthians 11: verse 28
Communion is that time each week that we examine ourselves and the work of Christ in our life. Before we take of the bread and fruit of the vine we are told to examine ourselves. Communion should be a time of spiritual reflection and soul searching. Allow the Holy Spirit to take away all those hindrances and obstacles that we have placed in God's way throughout the week. Allow Jesus to minister his cleansing and healing to our spirit. Allow God to transform your thoughts, your emotions, your desires, and your actions. Let us examine ourselves and be willing to receive from God what he has for us each of us on Sunday morning.
In John chapter 2 is the story of Jesus turning the water into wine. There were six old stone jars full of water. Have you ever thought about those six stone jars? There was nothing important about them – all they did was hold plain water. But Jesus transformed that ordinary, everyday water into new wine – so good that the banquet master said it was the best of the feast. Have you ever considered how in your life Christ has taken you and changed you from water into wine? We have a new life in Christ. The old ways are forever changed and we are renewed and transformed by his presence.
As we partake of communion each first day of the week, think of all the ways Christ has changed you. A time of thanking him in worship and praise from the heart is always appropriate at communion time. Jesus has done so much for us. Let us make communion a time of remembering all that he means to us.
1 Cornthians 11: verse 28
Communion is that time each week that we examine ourselves and the work of Christ in our life. Before we take of the bread and fruit of the vine we are told to examine ourselves. Communion should be a time of spiritual reflection and soul searching. Allow the Holy Spirit to take away all those hindrances and obstacles that we have placed in God's way throughout the week. Allow Jesus to minister his cleansing and healing to our spirit. Allow God to transform your thoughts, your emotions, your desires, and your actions. Let us examine ourselves and be willing to receive from God what he has for us each of us on Sunday morning.
In John chapter 2 is the story of Jesus turning the water into wine. There were six old stone jars full of water. Have you ever thought about those six stone jars? There was nothing important about them – all they did was hold plain water. But Jesus transformed that ordinary, everyday water into new wine – so good that the banquet master said it was the best of the feast. Have you ever considered how in your life Christ has taken you and changed you from water into wine? We have a new life in Christ. The old ways are forever changed and we are renewed and transformed by his presence.
As we partake of communion each first day of the week, think of all the ways Christ has changed you. A time of thanking him in worship and praise from the heart is always appropriate at communion time. Jesus has done so much for us. Let us make communion a time of remembering all that he means to us.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Thought for the Day
"Eventually all things merge into one and a river runs through it. The river was cut by the world's great flood and runs over rocks from the basement of time. On some rocks are timeless raindrops. Under the rocks are the words, and some of the words are theirs."
~Norman Maclean, A River Runs Through It
~Norman Maclean, A River Runs Through It
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Worship
Harold Best, in his book, Music Through the Eyes of Faith, defines worship in the broadest sense as “acknowledging that someone or something else is greater – worth more – and by consequence, to be obeyed, feared, and adored…Worship is the sign that in giving myself completely to someone or something, I want to be mastered by it."
Worship is, at it's essence, submitting ourselves through praise and covenant to the reign of God. This is true of all elements of worship. Praise isn't worship. True praise, prayer, preaching, listening, and coming to the table all engage us in, one way or another, giving ourselves completely God to be mastered by Him.
Question: What is the most powerful element of worship for you?
Worship is, at it's essence, submitting ourselves through praise and covenant to the reign of God. This is true of all elements of worship. Praise isn't worship. True praise, prayer, preaching, listening, and coming to the table all engage us in, one way or another, giving ourselves completely God to be mastered by Him.
Question: What is the most powerful element of worship for you?
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