The problem with a "blogcation" is that it is really hard to get back into the flow of writing regularly. I have read that the whole phenomenon of "blogging" has peaked. I don't know if that is true, but I do know it takes time and discipline to write regularly. Certainly gives me more respect for authors who write alot. Guys like Chuck Swindoll and Max Lucado have churned out books at an amazing rate. It takes alot of brain power to do that- not to mention spiritual depth.
Soooooo.... what's been going on with Charlie? I find myself on the cusp of October, one of my favorite months. I knew that fall is almost here when I stepped out of the house this morning to walk. It was 49 degrees! Crisp, cool, no breeze... it was perfect.
I have been taking some extra time off lately... trying to take advantage of the great weather (playing some golf, doing yard work etc.) and to recharge for the stretch run in 2008. October will bring about the conclusion of 40 Days of Community. It has been a great success, and promises to be the structure with which we disciple people in the future. Matt and his teams have done a great job. It is a huge undertaking to organize, promote, and track several hundred additional people in small groups and classes. Matt preached the last two sundays. We did the "Cardboard Testimonies " this past Sunday. It was a very powerful example of how God is working in so many lives.
Today, we signed the papers on the sale of our property to Rejoice. i was reflecting about this on the way home and celebrating God's faithfulness. I recall many times when I would walk through the 86th property praying that God would bring someone to buy the entire thing. We tried to keep it. We tried to sell it. We tried to keep again. It was up and down. It was on the market for a long time. One well known realtor told us that there was no way we would sell it, and if we did someone would just bulldoze it to the ground. The building in his estimation was worth nothing. I recall being kind of discouraged, but believing that if God wanted it sold, he would find the buyer at the right time, with the right price and it would happen.
Well it did. Rejoice Church has a great Christian School and they bought it for the Middle School and Senior High School. They have been leasing it back from us for about 16 months. It has been a great relationship. I have been so impressed with their heart. They have worked with us in so many ways.
I have also been so impressed with "our" people. They have been so flexible. They have seen the big picture. Many were inconvenienced by the sale. It was an emotional decision because so many had been baptized there. So many have been married there. So many people have had funerals for their loved ones there. The gospel message has been preached there. VBS grew and impacted so many there. Our Little Saints Preschool began there and flourished there for over 25 years. Young people have been ordained to the ministry there.
As God led us to North Garnett, there were emotional moments. I know it was hard for many. I know that there were tears and struggles for many. But ultimately those great people proved what we knew was true all along. They followed God's leading. It is awesome to see your church family do that in such a personal way.
Today, we were able to sign the papers and take the money to the bank and turn the page on a new chapter for the church. Its a new day. Lots of new people, new ideas, and a new hope for so many people. More than the money, more than the building, the space, the new toys and technology... people did it because they knew that God was in it, and He wanted to touch many new people.
4 years ago we said, "We did not want to focus on building a building, but building Christ in the lives of people." I look around now and I see small groups everywhere. I hear of many men's and women's bible studies. I see friends and church family helping others through really tough times. I see faithfulness every where.
Someone told me recently...." It just doesn't feel like my church anymore." I know that feeling. But it is not "our" church. It never was. It is Christ's Church. And it always will be.
But with all the new comes someone who does not change. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. "Jesus is the way , the truth and the life... No one comes to the Father except through him." John 14:6 Thanks to God for that.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Monday, September 15, 2008
Grow up Charlie
Some thoughts rolling around in my head...
* On Wednesday of each week, I start paying attention to the weather for Sunday. Last week, it was apparent that our entire weekend would be windy and wet...all because of Ike. This creates issues for me...( maybe it is just me)
Issue#1- Bad weather on Sunday, usually means lower attendance. Tropical Storm force wind and rain has real potential to "dampen" the worshp services. ( pun intended)
Issue #2- Our new building has leaks. Some are pretty major, some are not. So once again, Tropical Storm force winds and rain present potential issues.
Issue #3- We do not have a covered canopy. So, you figured it out, Tropical Storm Force winds and rain present some uncomfortable issues for our Senior Adults, and families, who have to make a run for it.
I could go on... and then I am reminded that there are 4 million people with no electricity, thousands of people in shelters ( probably for weeks), and some families who are grieving the loss of loved ones... all of that in Texas.
My issues do not seem so bad. I am a baby in some respects.... as a friend says to me, "WHAAAAAAAA...."
Sunday, I got up, and the clouds were gone. The wind was lighter than expected, The sun shined. The water did not flood the worship center. And the SON shined at Church too. It was a great day. Our groups are off and running. The congregation was responsive in all phases of our worship time. There were stories of impact being passed around .
And I was worried about some dude named, "IKE"
Later in the afternoon, I got the call that the brother of a very close friend had been killed in a Motorcycle accident. The two brothers and a friend were out on a leisurely ride ( It was a beautiful afternoon), when a car , going way too fast, lost control and slide into the path of Mark's brother Rick.
I was heart sick for Mark. And for Rick's sons. Their mother had died in the last year of cancer. So they have had alot. I spent the evening with them. Lots of questions...the only answers come from our FAITH in Christ. We just believe that it all will shake out. We believe that this Christian man is in heaven, reunited with his wife and other family, and certainly most of us, in the presence of Christ.
And I was worried about some dude named, "Ike" .
I need some re-direction by the Holy Spirit about what is really important. Weather forecasts are not. God is in control where Hurricanes go. In stead of me being worried about a disruption in my plans for Worship on a particular Sunday, I should pray for those who truly find themselves disrupted. And in some way , try to figure out a way to give in a tangible way to help people who have little right now.
I have alot of spiritual growing to do.
* On Wednesday of each week, I start paying attention to the weather for Sunday. Last week, it was apparent that our entire weekend would be windy and wet...all because of Ike. This creates issues for me...( maybe it is just me)
Issue#1- Bad weather on Sunday, usually means lower attendance. Tropical Storm force wind and rain has real potential to "dampen" the worshp services. ( pun intended)
Issue #2- Our new building has leaks. Some are pretty major, some are not. So once again, Tropical Storm force winds and rain present potential issues.
Issue #3- We do not have a covered canopy. So, you figured it out, Tropical Storm Force winds and rain present some uncomfortable issues for our Senior Adults, and families, who have to make a run for it.
I could go on... and then I am reminded that there are 4 million people with no electricity, thousands of people in shelters ( probably for weeks), and some families who are grieving the loss of loved ones... all of that in Texas.
My issues do not seem so bad. I am a baby in some respects.... as a friend says to me, "WHAAAAAAAA...."
Sunday, I got up, and the clouds were gone. The wind was lighter than expected, The sun shined. The water did not flood the worship center. And the SON shined at Church too. It was a great day. Our groups are off and running. The congregation was responsive in all phases of our worship time. There were stories of impact being passed around .
And I was worried about some dude named, "IKE"
Later in the afternoon, I got the call that the brother of a very close friend had been killed in a Motorcycle accident. The two brothers and a friend were out on a leisurely ride ( It was a beautiful afternoon), when a car , going way too fast, lost control and slide into the path of Mark's brother Rick.
I was heart sick for Mark. And for Rick's sons. Their mother had died in the last year of cancer. So they have had alot. I spent the evening with them. Lots of questions...the only answers come from our FAITH in Christ. We just believe that it all will shake out. We believe that this Christian man is in heaven, reunited with his wife and other family, and certainly most of us, in the presence of Christ.
And I was worried about some dude named, "Ike" .
I need some re-direction by the Holy Spirit about what is really important. Weather forecasts are not. God is in control where Hurricanes go. In stead of me being worried about a disruption in my plans for Worship on a particular Sunday, I should pray for those who truly find themselves disrupted. And in some way , try to figure out a way to give in a tangible way to help people who have little right now.
I have alot of spiritual growing to do.
Sunday, September 07, 2008
CROSSING ONE OFF THE LIST
While on the way back from Israel this spring, I watched movies. Flying on a big jumbo jet, in business class gives you that opportunity. And besides sleep and reading, it is about the best option to past the time on a 14 hour trip.
So, one of the movies I watched was" The Bucket List". The movie, starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman is about two men who are brought together by the dark diagnosis of cancer. They have lived vastly different lives, but find themselves together rounding the corner toward a finish line that we all must cross some day.
The premise builds around the idea of a list... a list of activities and things that one would want to do before their time ends here on earth.
I suppose that most of us do not bother to think about this alot, until we are given the bad news. ( don't worry, no bad news here for me.) But in our minds, all of us have a list of things that we would like to do before we die. Some are relationship driven... a person we want to see, a relationship we want to repair, or someone that we want to thank, forgive, or just see and recall old times. Some are activity driven... a place we want to go to, a challenge we want to attempt to rise up to, or an event that we want to attend.
I don't have a specific list on paper, or in a computer somewhere. But in my mind, I have some relationship things I want to experience, if God allows. There are some places I want to go and see, again if God allows.
And there are some events. This weekend , one of those things on the list , was crossed off. I am a big Eagles fan. I love their music, harmonies, and creativity. These guys are old... older than me by a long shot. Glen Fry, Joe Walsh and Don Henley have been around forever, both as part of the Eagles, and on their own. Thier work with guitars of all kinds is really something to behold.
The Eagles came to Tulsa to open the new BOK Arena. Tickets were very pricey, and the concert was sold out in a matter of minutes on the internet. So there was no real way that Pam and I could attend. I came to grips with that pretty early, and just thought, "Well I have them on my Iphone, and that is pretty cool."
A friend had tickets and could not use them. So, he gave them to us. All I can say is "WOW." What a concert. It was everything I had hoped for. It was fun, a great crowd of 14,000, new arena, fantastic music for the 70's, 80's, 90's, and whatever you call the present decade. It is not often that an event meets or even supersedes your expectations. This one did!
One of the great things about it is that the concert was 3 1/2 hours long, with about a 20 minute break. These guys, who said, "Welcome to the Eagles Assisted Living Tour," played their hearts out. I knew that late would not be good for me , so we left after 2 1/2 hours... It was incredible.
It was one of those fun things that you want to do, but don't figure you will ever get to do. Thanks to a generous friend, at least one of those things is crossed off the list.
There will be more... but I can't imagine many other things being that fun. Going to Fenway Park was close...but this was better.
All this has me thinking more about my list...both in the arena of relationships and events... Maybe that is one of the good things about turning 50. The kids are gone now, and you can spend some time thinking about that kind of stuff...and maybe even plan to accomplish some of it.
But honestly, one of the best things about the whole deal with the Eagles was that it was a surprise. That made it even more special. THANKS!
So, one of the movies I watched was" The Bucket List". The movie, starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman is about two men who are brought together by the dark diagnosis of cancer. They have lived vastly different lives, but find themselves together rounding the corner toward a finish line that we all must cross some day.
The premise builds around the idea of a list... a list of activities and things that one would want to do before their time ends here on earth.
I suppose that most of us do not bother to think about this alot, until we are given the bad news. ( don't worry, no bad news here for me.) But in our minds, all of us have a list of things that we would like to do before we die. Some are relationship driven... a person we want to see, a relationship we want to repair, or someone that we want to thank, forgive, or just see and recall old times. Some are activity driven... a place we want to go to, a challenge we want to attempt to rise up to, or an event that we want to attend.
I don't have a specific list on paper, or in a computer somewhere. But in my mind, I have some relationship things I want to experience, if God allows. There are some places I want to go and see, again if God allows.
And there are some events. This weekend , one of those things on the list , was crossed off. I am a big Eagles fan. I love their music, harmonies, and creativity. These guys are old... older than me by a long shot. Glen Fry, Joe Walsh and Don Henley have been around forever, both as part of the Eagles, and on their own. Thier work with guitars of all kinds is really something to behold.
The Eagles came to Tulsa to open the new BOK Arena. Tickets were very pricey, and the concert was sold out in a matter of minutes on the internet. So there was no real way that Pam and I could attend. I came to grips with that pretty early, and just thought, "Well I have them on my Iphone, and that is pretty cool."
A friend had tickets and could not use them. So, he gave them to us. All I can say is "WOW." What a concert. It was everything I had hoped for. It was fun, a great crowd of 14,000, new arena, fantastic music for the 70's, 80's, 90's, and whatever you call the present decade. It is not often that an event meets or even supersedes your expectations. This one did!
One of the great things about it is that the concert was 3 1/2 hours long, with about a 20 minute break. These guys, who said, "Welcome to the Eagles Assisted Living Tour," played their hearts out. I knew that late would not be good for me , so we left after 2 1/2 hours... It was incredible.
It was one of those fun things that you want to do, but don't figure you will ever get to do. Thanks to a generous friend, at least one of those things is crossed off the list.
There will be more... but I can't imagine many other things being that fun. Going to Fenway Park was close...but this was better.
All this has me thinking more about my list...both in the arena of relationships and events... Maybe that is one of the good things about turning 50. The kids are gone now, and you can spend some time thinking about that kind of stuff...and maybe even plan to accomplish some of it.
But honestly, one of the best things about the whole deal with the Eagles was that it was a surprise. That made it even more special. THANKS!
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Six weeks catchup
FINALLY.. a few moments to post. One thing about a month long "blogcation" , it is hard to get back into it.
The last six weeks have been eventful...
- Trip to Oregon to see my parents - they are doing okay. I love seeing them, and going to Oregon... Got to see my sister too.
- Turned 50- I am doing okay. Doesn't feel alot different to me...but they tell me I have more gray hair.. Some say it is all
down hill. Others say, "50 is the new 30." I have been waiting for 50 for 50 years... still have alot of life to live.
- Joel is moving to Portland Oregon. He is doing okay...on the road in Wyoming as I write. I will miss Him alot. Want to know
more??? Go to www.vidoop.com and click on blog. When you get there, click on anything that says "Oregon Trail." There are
video's, pics, and comments. Its a bunch of "technodudes" who are relocating to Portland to take over the wold.
- The church is launching a new small group emphasis- that is going great. Lots of cool stories...
- Pam and I shared our Israel pictures with people from the Church- I will write and share more about it as the month carries on.
- Pam started back to school- that has been good
- Abigail went back to college- Ozark Christian College- This is probably the last summer she will be home. She is great .
-Elizabeth , Nathaniel and GRACE visited a couple times. She is awesome! ( They all are). Visit www.elizabeth-
nathaniel.blogspot.com to see lots of pictures
- Lydia started back to school at NSU-Broken Arrow- James is doing great on our staff.
- I had a surprise birthday party- Pam you are amazing. Girls and Joel- nice! Friends- thanks . Lets do it again in 10 years.
-The staff had a party for me too- great fun with everyone, including the undertaker.
- The church finished the summer in great position for the fall. Attendance is right around 1100 each week, offerings are
strong, and there are a ton of new people.
- I finished 3 months in Proverbs this summer. I am not bragging, but I think it may have been some of the best preaching I
have done in a long time. As much as anything, the study really fed my soul...
-The Fall is almost here. I look so forward to September 15th, because that seems to be when the weather changes. Its
changed early this year.
- I have hurricane damage to my mailbox. Yup, Hurricane Gustav blew over my mailbox. In Oklahoma....Hmmmmmmnnn.
- I got a MacBook... Infuriating, frustrating.... all those "ating" things. The "Techies" in my office keep telling me that I will
get used to is and love it. I left my office one day saying outloud for everyone to hear, "Whoever talked me in to a Mac is
dead." They all smiled and then buried their heads back into their Macs. I felt better, until I had to log on.
- Fantasy football is off and running. I think Romo and LT are a strong combination. But we will see....
- I changed the look of the blog... I hate it... so it will change again
On the whole, that is six weeks worth of news from my life. God has been good to me.
Charlie
The last six weeks have been eventful...
- Trip to Oregon to see my parents - they are doing okay. I love seeing them, and going to Oregon... Got to see my sister too.
- Turned 50- I am doing okay. Doesn't feel alot different to me...but they tell me I have more gray hair.. Some say it is all
down hill. Others say, "50 is the new 30." I have been waiting for 50 for 50 years... still have alot of life to live.
- Joel is moving to Portland Oregon. He is doing okay...on the road in Wyoming as I write. I will miss Him alot. Want to know
more??? Go to www.vidoop.com and click on blog. When you get there, click on anything that says "Oregon Trail." There are
video's, pics, and comments. Its a bunch of "technodudes" who are relocating to Portland to take over the wold.
- The church is launching a new small group emphasis- that is going great. Lots of cool stories...
- Pam and I shared our Israel pictures with people from the Church- I will write and share more about it as the month carries on.
- Pam started back to school- that has been good
- Abigail went back to college- Ozark Christian College- This is probably the last summer she will be home. She is great .
-Elizabeth , Nathaniel and GRACE visited a couple times. She is awesome! ( They all are). Visit www.elizabeth-
nathaniel.blogspot.com to see lots of pictures
- Lydia started back to school at NSU-Broken Arrow- James is doing great on our staff.
- I had a surprise birthday party- Pam you are amazing. Girls and Joel- nice! Friends- thanks . Lets do it again in 10 years.
-The staff had a party for me too- great fun with everyone, including the undertaker.
- The church finished the summer in great position for the fall. Attendance is right around 1100 each week, offerings are
strong, and there are a ton of new people.
- I finished 3 months in Proverbs this summer. I am not bragging, but I think it may have been some of the best preaching I
have done in a long time. As much as anything, the study really fed my soul...
-The Fall is almost here. I look so forward to September 15th, because that seems to be when the weather changes. Its
changed early this year.
- I have hurricane damage to my mailbox. Yup, Hurricane Gustav blew over my mailbox. In Oklahoma....Hmmmmmmnnn.
- I got a MacBook... Infuriating, frustrating.... all those "ating" things. The "Techies" in my office keep telling me that I will
get used to is and love it. I left my office one day saying outloud for everyone to hear, "Whoever talked me in to a Mac is
dead." They all smiled and then buried their heads back into their Macs. I felt better, until I had to log on.
- Fantasy football is off and running. I think Romo and LT are a strong combination. But we will see....
- I changed the look of the blog... I hate it... so it will change again
On the whole, that is six weeks worth of news from my life. God has been good to me.
Charlie
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Almost back...
I've been out of the blogging world for over a month. I will start writing again this week. Stay tuned
Charlie
Charlie
Monday, July 28, 2008
Break Time
I am taking a "blogcation." I am officially on a break from blogging until September 1st.
I plan to travel, read, do some preaching and get ready for the fall.
When I get back, I will resume some writing about Israel ( complete with pictures), along with various updates about my wonderful family, granddaughter, and church.
See you in September
Charlie
I plan to travel, read, do some preaching and get ready for the fall.
When I get back, I will resume some writing about Israel ( complete with pictures), along with various updates about my wonderful family, granddaughter, and church.
See you in September
Charlie
Monday, July 21, 2008
A quiet week...I hope
Most of the staff is gone this week... toughing it out in Colorado. High Temps around 65-70, cool at night...
Here- 98 today...Humidity... hottttt.
What is wrong with picture?
Aaron, James, Mike, Ben and I deserve an award. Not sure I know what it should be...
Actually, spending a week camping with 100 teenagers, sleeping in a tent, trying to focus the kids on God is ALOT harder than it looks.
So, Jim, Jared, Joe, Tim, and Matt- work hard...and come home...
How many lives have been truly changed at Youthquake over the past 25 plus years? More than we know... it is a great opportunity... Think about it... No radio, no computer, no cellphones, no text messaging...( at least it is supposed to be that way.) I am sure some first timers don't believe that there is anywhere on earth where you don't get service... SUPRISE!!!!
Its good for all of us to disconnect and hide. When I go to Oregon and head to the coast, I will do that for a few days...
Not a bad deal at all.
Here- 98 today...Humidity... hottttt.
What is wrong with picture?
Aaron, James, Mike, Ben and I deserve an award. Not sure I know what it should be...
Actually, spending a week camping with 100 teenagers, sleeping in a tent, trying to focus the kids on God is ALOT harder than it looks.
So, Jim, Jared, Joe, Tim, and Matt- work hard...and come home...
How many lives have been truly changed at Youthquake over the past 25 plus years? More than we know... it is a great opportunity... Think about it... No radio, no computer, no cellphones, no text messaging...( at least it is supposed to be that way.) I am sure some first timers don't believe that there is anywhere on earth where you don't get service... SUPRISE!!!!
Its good for all of us to disconnect and hide. When I go to Oregon and head to the coast, I will do that for a few days...
Not a bad deal at all.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Stories....
The other night I was leaving church and caught this view...I like the elements of the front... stained glass, lit at night... the Cross lifted high over the building...I think it sends a great message that we are a an alive church with a story which revolves around the cross of Jesus. ( See picture at right)
We are seeing stories of life change everywhere. One father talked to me last week about how God was really working in his life. He and his wife had "found" FCC a while back, after not being in church for decades. They began to talk to one of our guys...came to our Discovery 101 Seminar and then were baptized into Christ. Following that, their son went to camp, and he too was baptized into Christ.
This father told me that he senses God really working in their lives... they are reading a chapter of Proverbs each night as a family and then discussing it. There has been visible evidence of life change in their family. God is good.
Beyond the growth of these past few months, beyond the excitement of building, moving, and building some more ( yes I said "excitement", although at times it has been stressful.), are the stories...just like the gospels. They are a collection of stories...stories of encounters with Christ, life change, challenge, hope, faith and love. There are stories as well of disappointment, sorrow, and rejection.
We are called to tell the story of Christ. We are not called to be responsible for the results. That is God's department, because it is God's work. We just plant seeds, water where God wants us to and then we wait and see what happens.
We are seeing stories of life change everywhere. One father talked to me last week about how God was really working in his life. He and his wife had "found" FCC a while back, after not being in church for decades. They began to talk to one of our guys...came to our Discovery 101 Seminar and then were baptized into Christ. Following that, their son went to camp, and he too was baptized into Christ.
This father told me that he senses God really working in their lives... they are reading a chapter of Proverbs each night as a family and then discussing it. There has been visible evidence of life change in their family. God is good.
Beyond the growth of these past few months, beyond the excitement of building, moving, and building some more ( yes I said "excitement", although at times it has been stressful.), are the stories...just like the gospels. They are a collection of stories...stories of encounters with Christ, life change, challenge, hope, faith and love. There are stories as well of disappointment, sorrow, and rejection.
We are called to tell the story of Christ. We are not called to be responsible for the results. That is God's department, because it is God's work. We just plant seeds, water where God wants us to and then we wait and see what happens.
Monday, July 14, 2008
FIGHT NIGHT
A year ago we finished up one of our usual VBS programs. Hundreds of kids, hundreds of workers... lots of publicity in the community. It was really great. I love VBS at First Christian Church. I love its potential to reach children. I love its potential to give people a chance to serve. I love the fact that it is Bible based. It is a 17 1/2 hour summer camp for kids ( 5 days for 3 plus hours each day.)
Afterwards our Children's Minister came to me and said that his team had been working on some ideas to change VBS. That is no problem I thought. It is one of our signature events each year...but it probably needs a little sprucing up.
Well, as the details came out, we were not talking about some changes. We were talking about a complete overhaul, in every sense of the word. What the Children's Ministry team wanted to do was to kill the old style VBS and replace it with something totally different. I was less than enthusiastic. But I listened, I prayed, I asked lots of questions and I watched as the details starting coming together.
Last night we began. A big change was the fact that we were doing it in July, rather than our designated spot in June. We had that week in June reserved for years. Community people and churches stayed away from that week for their events, because they knew that the kids would be at FCC. So moving it to July was huge.
Moving it to night time was even bigger. Ours had always been a morning VBS. It had worked so well. Would evenings work? I was skeptical...but I watched and listened, prayed. I felt like it had potential.
Changing the format was even a bigger task. No longer would we have a daily craft, a music time where we taught the kids the songs for the closing program, recreation, and Bible rooms. Instead, it would take the format of a family production with lots of music, skits, a Bible story, and a challenge around the virtue of honesty.
It would take alot of technology. Alot of musical talent, alot of acting, and a huge team behind the scenes that would make things happen.
One of the aspects of the old VBS was that we had homeroom guides who spent the entire week with a group of kids... teaching them, helping them with memory work, and guiding them through the busy week. To me, it was one of the most effective parts of our VBS.
So, where were the homeroom guides this year? Here is the kicker... The homeroom guides were the PARENTS. Families came together to worship, to hear the Bible taught, and to experience the virtue first hand. And then they got to go home and talk about it.
That was the vision of Aaron and his team. He has a heart to see families worship together, and for the teaching of the Bible to be done by example and by word in the context of the family.
WELL, IT WORKED! I knew it would work when I stood outside the Worship Center and watched some families come in to FIGHT NIGHT ( FIGHT stands for Families In God Hanging Together). They were excited to be together. Moms and Dads were anticipating what was going to be done on the stage. The kids from 3 years old and up loved it.
And then to top it all off the families went into our Gathering area and did a "Craft" TOGETHER... Again, it was an awesome sight.
After the first night, the reviews are very positive. I know we will have some tweaks that need to be made... but for the first one, it was pretty great. I will let you know how the rest of the week goes...but it seems to me that we are on our way to an unqualified success. God gets the credit and glory.
But so does Aaron and His Team. His team believed in this and put the flesh to the bones as far as the plan was concerned.
But I have to say, Aaron did something pretty special. He took the vision and sold it. He sold it to me...to our staff...to our leaders... and to our church. He led me through the change, and convinced me that it was worth the risk. He also took the risk personally, because alot of this was on him.
Last night I did not hear, "Well I wish we had the old VBS back." I think for us... that day is done. We can't turn back now.
Around here, change has been pretty monumental for us for the last couple years. . We have started saying in our meetings, "This isn't Mayberry any more." Boy that is true. But the changes have been really cool. They have been effective in us helping others know, love, serve and share him. And they have helped us identify and raise up a new generation of leaders.
Best of all, they have shown us that we can change for the Gospel's sake. I can't wait to see what's next.
Good Job Aaron and James and the Children's Ministry Team...You guys are awesome.
Afterwards our Children's Minister came to me and said that his team had been working on some ideas to change VBS. That is no problem I thought. It is one of our signature events each year...but it probably needs a little sprucing up.
Well, as the details came out, we were not talking about some changes. We were talking about a complete overhaul, in every sense of the word. What the Children's Ministry team wanted to do was to kill the old style VBS and replace it with something totally different. I was less than enthusiastic. But I listened, I prayed, I asked lots of questions and I watched as the details starting coming together.
Last night we began. A big change was the fact that we were doing it in July, rather than our designated spot in June. We had that week in June reserved for years. Community people and churches stayed away from that week for their events, because they knew that the kids would be at FCC. So moving it to July was huge.
Moving it to night time was even bigger. Ours had always been a morning VBS. It had worked so well. Would evenings work? I was skeptical...but I watched and listened, prayed. I felt like it had potential.
Changing the format was even a bigger task. No longer would we have a daily craft, a music time where we taught the kids the songs for the closing program, recreation, and Bible rooms. Instead, it would take the format of a family production with lots of music, skits, a Bible story, and a challenge around the virtue of honesty.
It would take alot of technology. Alot of musical talent, alot of acting, and a huge team behind the scenes that would make things happen.
One of the aspects of the old VBS was that we had homeroom guides who spent the entire week with a group of kids... teaching them, helping them with memory work, and guiding them through the busy week. To me, it was one of the most effective parts of our VBS.
So, where were the homeroom guides this year? Here is the kicker... The homeroom guides were the PARENTS. Families came together to worship, to hear the Bible taught, and to experience the virtue first hand. And then they got to go home and talk about it.
That was the vision of Aaron and his team. He has a heart to see families worship together, and for the teaching of the Bible to be done by example and by word in the context of the family.
WELL, IT WORKED! I knew it would work when I stood outside the Worship Center and watched some families come in to FIGHT NIGHT ( FIGHT stands for Families In God Hanging Together). They were excited to be together. Moms and Dads were anticipating what was going to be done on the stage. The kids from 3 years old and up loved it.
And then to top it all off the families went into our Gathering area and did a "Craft" TOGETHER... Again, it was an awesome sight.
After the first night, the reviews are very positive. I know we will have some tweaks that need to be made... but for the first one, it was pretty great. I will let you know how the rest of the week goes...but it seems to me that we are on our way to an unqualified success. God gets the credit and glory.
But so does Aaron and His Team. His team believed in this and put the flesh to the bones as far as the plan was concerned.
But I have to say, Aaron did something pretty special. He took the vision and sold it. He sold it to me...to our staff...to our leaders... and to our church. He led me through the change, and convinced me that it was worth the risk. He also took the risk personally, because alot of this was on him.
Last night I did not hear, "Well I wish we had the old VBS back." I think for us... that day is done. We can't turn back now.
Around here, change has been pretty monumental for us for the last couple years. . We have started saying in our meetings, "This isn't Mayberry any more." Boy that is true. But the changes have been really cool. They have been effective in us helping others know, love, serve and share him. And they have helped us identify and raise up a new generation of leaders.
Best of all, they have shown us that we can change for the Gospel's sake. I can't wait to see what's next.
Good Job Aaron and James and the Children's Ministry Team...You guys are awesome.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
It just keeps getting better...
This week, news outlets reported that Bradley Fowler sued Zondervan, a Christian Publishing house. Why? He is suing because their versions of the Bible characterize homosexuality as a sin. He says that these characterizations violate his constitutional rights, and have caused him emotional pain and emotional instability. He says that Zondervan's Bibles have caused him to be an outcast in his own family and have contributed to periods of physical discomfort, and periods of demoralization, chaos, and bewilderment.
It's a 60 million dollar lawsuit.
Bradley Fowler does not concern me. His lawsuit really doesn't either. It is nothing new to see someone decide the Bible is wrong. It is no surprise that someone would file this suit...maybe its more of a surprise that someone other than Bradley Fowler didn't do this a long time ago, and make it about what it really is...$.
I am slightly more concerned that this argument will be played in the courts (someone somewhere will listen to this lawsuit).
So, if a judge says, "Bradley, you are right. That company that wrote that mean stuff about you ought to be punished, and you ought to be rich and be able to do whatever you want...( after all this is the "land of the free"), what does that really mean?
I guess we could rewrite the Bible. ( People have been trying to do that for ages.)
I guess we could throw out chunks of the Old Testament, and chunks of I Corinthians along with the Sermon on the Mount.
I guess we would have to get used to lawsuits about adultery, stealing, anger, selfishness, coarse language, ignoring the needs of the poor and on the list goes.
We could truly become the society where no one tells us what to do, where no one says, "I think you are wrong". I think we could become a place where we are truly free to harm one another, debase our own bodies, and in general live lives that are anything but honorable and moral. ( I know, who is to say that Homosexuality is immoral?)
The best thing about the lawsuit, is that Fowler went after the wrong person. I was watching some videos recently where the phrase was used, "Don't shoot the messenger." I think this is true here. If Fowler was really ticked off about this, and if Fowler really beleives he has a case, he should take it up with the author.
GOD.... He should sue God. God has deeper pockets than Zondervan. He owns the cattle on a thousand hills. God is the one who wrote the Bible (2 Tim. 3:16). God is the one who set this whole thing on earth up. God is the one who looked at Adam and said "It is not good for Man to be alone." He is the one who dreamed up the physical and emotional marvel called woman and said, "You two ought to be together." He is the one who set this order in place. So if Fowler really wants to get it "right", he should go after God.
Zondervan is small potatoes here... this is too easy. Bradley, Set up an appointment with God and sit down with him and state your case. He is easy to get ahold of.
There is another way to solve his problem. Change your lifestyle. Take the Bible at face value and look at the behavior which has caused you so much grief and change. Its a decision of the will, a decision that we all have to make everyday about everything. Homosexuals do not get a free pass here. Everyone , because of sin, has things they have to work on. We,(ME TOO), have things that are not right about our behaviors. When held up in the LIGHT of God's word, they stink. God says, "make a decision to change this." God says that he will help. God says he will forgive.
That is a pretty strong offer. God's way sounds good... but maybe it is just easier to sue the publishers of the Bible.
Remember...don't shoot the messenger. Take it up with the author.
This week, news outlets reported that Bradley Fowler sued Zondervan, a Christian Publishing house. Why? He is suing because their versions of the Bible characterize homosexuality as a sin. He says that these characterizations violate his constitutional rights, and have caused him emotional pain and emotional instability. He says that Zondervan's Bibles have caused him to be an outcast in his own family and have contributed to periods of physical discomfort, and periods of demoralization, chaos, and bewilderment.
It's a 60 million dollar lawsuit.
Bradley Fowler does not concern me. His lawsuit really doesn't either. It is nothing new to see someone decide the Bible is wrong. It is no surprise that someone would file this suit...maybe its more of a surprise that someone other than Bradley Fowler didn't do this a long time ago, and make it about what it really is...$.
I am slightly more concerned that this argument will be played in the courts (someone somewhere will listen to this lawsuit).
So, if a judge says, "Bradley, you are right. That company that wrote that mean stuff about you ought to be punished, and you ought to be rich and be able to do whatever you want...( after all this is the "land of the free"), what does that really mean?
I guess we could rewrite the Bible. ( People have been trying to do that for ages.)
I guess we could throw out chunks of the Old Testament, and chunks of I Corinthians along with the Sermon on the Mount.
I guess we would have to get used to lawsuits about adultery, stealing, anger, selfishness, coarse language, ignoring the needs of the poor and on the list goes.
We could truly become the society where no one tells us what to do, where no one says, "I think you are wrong". I think we could become a place where we are truly free to harm one another, debase our own bodies, and in general live lives that are anything but honorable and moral. ( I know, who is to say that Homosexuality is immoral?)
The best thing about the lawsuit, is that Fowler went after the wrong person. I was watching some videos recently where the phrase was used, "Don't shoot the messenger." I think this is true here. If Fowler was really ticked off about this, and if Fowler really beleives he has a case, he should take it up with the author.
GOD.... He should sue God. God has deeper pockets than Zondervan. He owns the cattle on a thousand hills. God is the one who wrote the Bible (2 Tim. 3:16). God is the one who set this whole thing on earth up. God is the one who looked at Adam and said "It is not good for Man to be alone." He is the one who dreamed up the physical and emotional marvel called woman and said, "You two ought to be together." He is the one who set this order in place. So if Fowler really wants to get it "right", he should go after God.
Zondervan is small potatoes here... this is too easy. Bradley, Set up an appointment with God and sit down with him and state your case. He is easy to get ahold of.
There is another way to solve his problem. Change your lifestyle. Take the Bible at face value and look at the behavior which has caused you so much grief and change. Its a decision of the will, a decision that we all have to make everyday about everything. Homosexuals do not get a free pass here. Everyone , because of sin, has things they have to work on. We,(ME TOO), have things that are not right about our behaviors. When held up in the LIGHT of God's word, they stink. God says, "make a decision to change this." God says that he will help. God says he will forgive.
That is a pretty strong offer. God's way sounds good... but maybe it is just easier to sue the publishers of the Bible.
Remember...don't shoot the messenger. Take it up with the author.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Weathermen
I love living in Oklahoma! We have four seasons. They can be extreme...ice storms in the winter.... long dry, hot spells in the summer. Fall is the best. Cool nights, warm days...occassional thunderstorms. Spring is okay, except that the wind blows and blows. It is not my favorite.
Today, It has rained all morning. I love these days in the middle of July. Cool, wet, no wind... just a needed reprieve from 80% humidity and 95 degree temps.
I am glad I am not a weatherman. The people hate you when you get it wrong. They hate you when the forecast does not fit their activity or schedule. And they hate you when you have to break into a golf tournament or NBA Finals game to tell you that there is a tornado out in some pasture in Osage county.
I am not saying I don't have those feeling about weathermen. I probably do. I am just glad that I am not one of them.
Rather than forecasting, I think I will enjoy the weather.
Today, It has rained all morning. I love these days in the middle of July. Cool, wet, no wind... just a needed reprieve from 80% humidity and 95 degree temps.
I am glad I am not a weatherman. The people hate you when you get it wrong. They hate you when the forecast does not fit their activity or schedule. And they hate you when you have to break into a golf tournament or NBA Finals game to tell you that there is a tornado out in some pasture in Osage county.
I am not saying I don't have those feeling about weathermen. I probably do. I am just glad that I am not one of them.
Rather than forecasting, I think I will enjoy the weather.
Monday, July 07, 2008
Life and Death, Newborns and Born Again
Yesterday was one of those days... 4th of July weekend..attendance down a bit...I labored through the sermon in both services. (Some days are like that). Maybe it was the combination of the 4th and a sermon on $. I was kind of tired and worn down.
There was bad news about a 21 year old member of the church being killed in a boating accident on the 4th. The news was sketchy, so I said nothing...just a prayer for his mom, who had lost her husband 6 years ago to cancer. Later in the day I went to see her. Her first words were so raw. Its tough to lose a husband. It is double tough to lose a son. Wow...Funeral is Wednesday. What do you say? I am not sure, but it is on my mind alot right now. God will give me something.
Mix that with the story of a woman who has recently accepted Christ. She , her husband and I had a lengthy conversation after church. She needed a church. She was invited to a different church, but her husband asked his small group of friends about a church. The interesting thing is that he was in Bagdad Iraq, and one of the guys is an elder of our church. David got on the phone, contacted his wife who talked to this lady... Well.. what a cool thing it was Sunday. He is on leave for two weeks... He said, "The most important thing in my life is seeing her make this decision." This Sunday she will be baptized.
Mix all that with the fact that Grace, Lizzie and Nathaniel were here. Great times having a baby in the house. She is so sweet... Liz and Nathaniel are so good with her.
It all gets me to thinking... Life and Death...New-borns and born-again...there is a cycle, a process...all of which leads to the same thing...a day when we decide to look beyond this life into the next. We have to decide. And we don't know when that last day will come.
It's called "paying attention" to the really important things. Life and Death, New-borns and born again.
more later
There was bad news about a 21 year old member of the church being killed in a boating accident on the 4th. The news was sketchy, so I said nothing...just a prayer for his mom, who had lost her husband 6 years ago to cancer. Later in the day I went to see her. Her first words were so raw. Its tough to lose a husband. It is double tough to lose a son. Wow...Funeral is Wednesday. What do you say? I am not sure, but it is on my mind alot right now. God will give me something.
Mix that with the story of a woman who has recently accepted Christ. She , her husband and I had a lengthy conversation after church. She needed a church. She was invited to a different church, but her husband asked his small group of friends about a church. The interesting thing is that he was in Bagdad Iraq, and one of the guys is an elder of our church. David got on the phone, contacted his wife who talked to this lady... Well.. what a cool thing it was Sunday. He is on leave for two weeks... He said, "The most important thing in my life is seeing her make this decision." This Sunday she will be baptized.
Mix all that with the fact that Grace, Lizzie and Nathaniel were here. Great times having a baby in the house. She is so sweet... Liz and Nathaniel are so good with her.
It all gets me to thinking... Life and Death...New-borns and born-again...there is a cycle, a process...all of which leads to the same thing...a day when we decide to look beyond this life into the next. We have to decide. And we don't know when that last day will come.
It's called "paying attention" to the really important things. Life and Death, New-borns and born again.
more later
Friday, July 04, 2008
Birthday thoughts...
4th of July.... What does it mean to you?
Today at lunch I attended a "indoor" picnic at church. About 50 Senior Adults, and some that were not so "senior" gathered together to each picnic food and to hear from Chris Benge, who is the Speaker of the House in Oklahoma. He did a good job of talking about his responsibilities, and then giving some thoughts about "What is right with America." It was nice to hear someone talk positively about our country.
After being in Israel last spring, I have come to appreciate the freedom of our country even more. While driving through the central part of Israel, we crossed into Jordan. That was not a huge deal, because we were just driving through, but it is a little unnerving to drive through a check point and see millitary personell with machine guns standing there.
After this weeks terrorist attach on Jaffa Street in Jersualem, ( a Palestinian got ahold of a front end loader and ran into cars and busses, killing 3, before he was shot to death by Israeli millitary), I thought about how safe we really are in America. It is amazing how we can come and go with little fear.
The rescue of the hostages (including 2 Americans) in Columbia brought this home even more. Some of those people had been hostages for 10 years! They were held in deplorable and inhuman condiitons. The woman in the groups said that the treatment they recieved was not fit for an animal or even a plant!
Again, we have very little fear of that happening to us here.
These and other examples demonstrate what an amazing country we live in. Speaker of the House Benge said that the establishment of this "representative republic" is the greatest experiment in human history. I think politically this is true.
However, we have to acknowledge that this "experiment" is only 232 years old. That is not all that old as countries go. We would do well to learn more from the mistakes of nations gone by to see what it is that led to their downfall. When you think that humankind is no more than 6,000 yeers old , 232 years is not that long.
This morning, as I sat in my nice home, in the middle of the USA , I looked into the eyes of baby Grace. I wondered what kind of world she would live in 18 years. What would be the headlines? What will the price of a gallon of gasoline cost? Who will be the President of the United States be? What will be the influence of Hollywood, media, and technology?
I can't answer those questions with any certainty. But I look at her and I know one thing. There is a God... He loves that little girl more than any of us could. He sent Jesus to save her from her sins...and she lives in the greatest land in the world. How can anyone look at a little baby like this and not see God?
All of that is a pretty good start on a pretty good life. And with how things are changing around us... God is the one she can hang on to, no matter how rough the ride gets.
Good thoughts for all of us.
Happy Birthday America!
Today at lunch I attended a "indoor" picnic at church. About 50 Senior Adults, and some that were not so "senior" gathered together to each picnic food and to hear from Chris Benge, who is the Speaker of the House in Oklahoma. He did a good job of talking about his responsibilities, and then giving some thoughts about "What is right with America." It was nice to hear someone talk positively about our country.
After being in Israel last spring, I have come to appreciate the freedom of our country even more. While driving through the central part of Israel, we crossed into Jordan. That was not a huge deal, because we were just driving through, but it is a little unnerving to drive through a check point and see millitary personell with machine guns standing there.
After this weeks terrorist attach on Jaffa Street in Jersualem, ( a Palestinian got ahold of a front end loader and ran into cars and busses, killing 3, before he was shot to death by Israeli millitary), I thought about how safe we really are in America. It is amazing how we can come and go with little fear.
The rescue of the hostages (including 2 Americans) in Columbia brought this home even more. Some of those people had been hostages for 10 years! They were held in deplorable and inhuman condiitons. The woman in the groups said that the treatment they recieved was not fit for an animal or even a plant!
Again, we have very little fear of that happening to us here.
These and other examples demonstrate what an amazing country we live in. Speaker of the House Benge said that the establishment of this "representative republic" is the greatest experiment in human history. I think politically this is true.
However, we have to acknowledge that this "experiment" is only 232 years old. That is not all that old as countries go. We would do well to learn more from the mistakes of nations gone by to see what it is that led to their downfall. When you think that humankind is no more than 6,000 yeers old , 232 years is not that long.
This morning, as I sat in my nice home, in the middle of the USA , I looked into the eyes of baby Grace. I wondered what kind of world she would live in 18 years. What would be the headlines? What will the price of a gallon of gasoline cost? Who will be the President of the United States be? What will be the influence of Hollywood, media, and technology?
I can't answer those questions with any certainty. But I look at her and I know one thing. There is a God... He loves that little girl more than any of us could. He sent Jesus to save her from her sins...and she lives in the greatest land in the world. How can anyone look at a little baby like this and not see God?
All of that is a pretty good start on a pretty good life. And with how things are changing around us... God is the one she can hang on to, no matter how rough the ride gets.
Good thoughts for all of us.
Happy Birthday America!
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Hmmmmmmnnnnnn.....
Some things about this-n-that...
This summer our church has been reading a chapter a day of the book of Proverbs. For the last 5 weeks we have looked at different topics, such as words, anger, and wisdom. The response from the church has been extremely positive. I know these messages hit me where I am at right now... and it seems like the same can be said of many who attend the church. Today, we began our second round through the book. I think this is a great exercise...a chapter a day is a good start toward a life long habit. So, this month the topics from Proverbs are ......(drum roll please)..... Money, Generosity, Laziness and Lust. Quite a line up huh? We are taking this journey through Proverbs till the end of August.
This weekend is a holiday weekend.. 4th of July. AAA says people are staying home more, not going on the long trips because of Gas prices. So I was wondering... does that improve church attendance in the summer? Hard to say I suppose. Our attendance is up, but that may be more due to our "spurt" this spring. We are maintaining our constant flow of visitors each week, which is encouraging.
I just finished another article for a Christian magazine. I enjoy writing. Its the editing that wears me out. I have lots of help. Jeanna Harris, Helen and Jerry Whited and Pam have taken a look at it. It's a challenge to write, re-write, submit to friends, then re-write again....but when you feel good about it and put it in the envelope, there is good sense of accomplishment. I think writing a whole book would be amazing.I have an idea for a book, and a couple chapters along with an introduction written. But there is no telling how long that will take.
Adding to my list of new experiences... I had an interesting experience in the hospital a few weeks ago...It was a funny deal, and after getting permission from the person involved, I submitted it to "All in a Day's Work" in Reader's Digest. I did it on-line, and then got this note back. It said, "Thanks for your submission. We will let you know if we decide to use it." Not exactly personal, but it fullfilled my need to know if they really got it or if it was floating around there in cyber-space somewhere. Want to know what it was.... Well, you will have to wait to see if they use it. I don't want to spoil the surprise.
Speaking of long holiday weekend, Grace makes her road trip debut this weekend with a jaunt to Owasso. I can't wait to see her (and Nathaniel and Lizzie). I haven't seen her since she was born! So she is nearly 3 weeks old now... Should be a fun weekend for all of us.
Hope to pick up a couple pictures of Grace, which I will post next week.
This summer our church has been reading a chapter a day of the book of Proverbs. For the last 5 weeks we have looked at different topics, such as words, anger, and wisdom. The response from the church has been extremely positive. I know these messages hit me where I am at right now... and it seems like the same can be said of many who attend the church. Today, we began our second round through the book. I think this is a great exercise...a chapter a day is a good start toward a life long habit. So, this month the topics from Proverbs are ......(drum roll please)..... Money, Generosity, Laziness and Lust. Quite a line up huh? We are taking this journey through Proverbs till the end of August.
This weekend is a holiday weekend.. 4th of July. AAA says people are staying home more, not going on the long trips because of Gas prices. So I was wondering... does that improve church attendance in the summer? Hard to say I suppose. Our attendance is up, but that may be more due to our "spurt" this spring. We are maintaining our constant flow of visitors each week, which is encouraging.
I just finished another article for a Christian magazine. I enjoy writing. Its the editing that wears me out. I have lots of help. Jeanna Harris, Helen and Jerry Whited and Pam have taken a look at it. It's a challenge to write, re-write, submit to friends, then re-write again....but when you feel good about it and put it in the envelope, there is good sense of accomplishment. I think writing a whole book would be amazing.I have an idea for a book, and a couple chapters along with an introduction written. But there is no telling how long that will take.
Adding to my list of new experiences... I had an interesting experience in the hospital a few weeks ago...It was a funny deal, and after getting permission from the person involved, I submitted it to "All in a Day's Work" in Reader's Digest. I did it on-line, and then got this note back. It said, "Thanks for your submission. We will let you know if we decide to use it." Not exactly personal, but it fullfilled my need to know if they really got it or if it was floating around there in cyber-space somewhere. Want to know what it was.... Well, you will have to wait to see if they use it. I don't want to spoil the surprise.
Speaking of long holiday weekend, Grace makes her road trip debut this weekend with a jaunt to Owasso. I can't wait to see her (and Nathaniel and Lizzie). I haven't seen her since she was born! So she is nearly 3 weeks old now... Should be a fun weekend for all of us.
Hope to pick up a couple pictures of Grace, which I will post next week.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Be careful what you ask for...
I have been spending the last few weeks reading through some OT books. I am loving the process of reading through Proverbs every day.
I also am spending some time in I Samuel. I Samuel is really the story of Saul, the first king of Israel. As you read through the first few chapters of the book, you see a people who were bent on worshiping God when it was convienent. But as soon as things were good, they were on their own and God was in the corner. They spent decades under the thumb of the Phillistines and when they finally repented (chapter 7), God rescued them. He defeated the Phillistines and the Ark of the Covenant was returned to Israel.
Then Israel reverts to thier old ways. Instead of trusting God and believing that God would protect and bless them they decided they wanted to be like all the other nations and have their own king.(I Sam 8:6).
Why did they want this? Well, on the surface it looks like it was because Samuel's successors (his sons), were perveted and dishonest (vs. 3). But in reality it was deeper than that. They wanted to be like everyone else. I Sam 8:20 says, "Then we will be like all the other nations.. with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles."
God warned them... He told them that the King would draft their boys and girls, he would tax them to the gills, and eventually the people would cry out to God for relief (vs. 18). But they still wanted a king. They wanted something different than what they had. They wanted what everyone else had.
Sometimes what you have is exactly what you need. Not all the time, but sometimes. I don't think that "more of the same" is neccesarily best. But I am not sure that all this trumpeting about "change" is healthy either. We are in the middle of the longest and most costly poltical season in our nations history. Candidates for President are over working the "change" theme. Everything is about change. They come in with new programs, new ideas, new ways of getting to the same place. Candidates and their wives are on news shows, variety shows, late night TV shows,and even afternoon talk shows. All of them are trumpeting change.
I think also country would do very well to "be careful what we ask for." We just might get it.... change. But change to what? "Change agents" throw around how they want to change things, but do not say exactly what it is, or how much it will cost, or how we will pay for it. I fear that in 4 or 8 years we will be looking for a new candidate of "change". The difference will be that he/she will have to clean up the mess from the this last round of change.
It is a critical time in our country. I wish we could have educated debate on where we need to go. And if I could ask for one thing, it would be that we would have candidates and campaigns that would sincerely look to God for wisdom. Maybe the place to star would be with Proverbs...( full circle there).
Read through 1st Samuel... You will notice that the predictions and warnings of God came true. Its the same today for all of us... God knows...
I also am spending some time in I Samuel. I Samuel is really the story of Saul, the first king of Israel. As you read through the first few chapters of the book, you see a people who were bent on worshiping God when it was convienent. But as soon as things were good, they were on their own and God was in the corner. They spent decades under the thumb of the Phillistines and when they finally repented (chapter 7), God rescued them. He defeated the Phillistines and the Ark of the Covenant was returned to Israel.
Then Israel reverts to thier old ways. Instead of trusting God and believing that God would protect and bless them they decided they wanted to be like all the other nations and have their own king.(I Sam 8:6).
Why did they want this? Well, on the surface it looks like it was because Samuel's successors (his sons), were perveted and dishonest (vs. 3). But in reality it was deeper than that. They wanted to be like everyone else. I Sam 8:20 says, "Then we will be like all the other nations.. with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles."
God warned them... He told them that the King would draft their boys and girls, he would tax them to the gills, and eventually the people would cry out to God for relief (vs. 18). But they still wanted a king. They wanted something different than what they had. They wanted what everyone else had.
Sometimes what you have is exactly what you need. Not all the time, but sometimes. I don't think that "more of the same" is neccesarily best. But I am not sure that all this trumpeting about "change" is healthy either. We are in the middle of the longest and most costly poltical season in our nations history. Candidates for President are over working the "change" theme. Everything is about change. They come in with new programs, new ideas, new ways of getting to the same place. Candidates and their wives are on news shows, variety shows, late night TV shows,and even afternoon talk shows. All of them are trumpeting change.
I think also country would do very well to "be careful what we ask for." We just might get it.... change. But change to what? "Change agents" throw around how they want to change things, but do not say exactly what it is, or how much it will cost, or how we will pay for it. I fear that in 4 or 8 years we will be looking for a new candidate of "change". The difference will be that he/she will have to clean up the mess from the this last round of change.
It is a critical time in our country. I wish we could have educated debate on where we need to go. And if I could ask for one thing, it would be that we would have candidates and campaigns that would sincerely look to God for wisdom. Maybe the place to star would be with Proverbs...( full circle there).
Read through 1st Samuel... You will notice that the predictions and warnings of God came true. Its the same today for all of us... God knows...
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Thinking Fathers...
When I think about this Father's Day....
I will think about my son-in-law Nathaniel. Two days before Father's Day 08, he became a father to little Grace.
I will think about a conversation I had with Joel last night. It was cool to hear the excitement in his voice as he talked about some positive developments at work. He's a man now...making his way in the world..I am proud of him.
I will think about the memorial service for Tim Russert. I watched part of it today and marveled at how his 22 year old son Luke, could play such a large part in eulogizing his father. You don't get that in the four days after your dad dies suddenly. You get that by being mentored by a great father.
I will think about a moment on Monday after Tiger won the US Open in a playoff, when he took his little girl in his arms and kissed her. When mom took her back, little Sam protested, and in an instant she was back in Dad's arms.
I will think about my three girls and how they have turned out to be wonderful, responsible and caring young ladies.
I will think how there's now way I get to be the father of all four, without their mother...who is the best thing to happen to me everyday.
I will think about my father who worked so hard for so many years, and who has managed to make retirement look good for anyone who works too much.
I will think about a father from the Bible named Jarius, who would stop at nothing to help his dying daughter. ( Mark 5)
I will think about the blessing my heavenly Father is to me. After all, the most difficult thing a Father could ever do is to "give up" His Son for me.
I will think about my son-in-law Nathaniel. Two days before Father's Day 08, he became a father to little Grace.
I will think about a conversation I had with Joel last night. It was cool to hear the excitement in his voice as he talked about some positive developments at work. He's a man now...making his way in the world..I am proud of him.
I will think about the memorial service for Tim Russert. I watched part of it today and marveled at how his 22 year old son Luke, could play such a large part in eulogizing his father. You don't get that in the four days after your dad dies suddenly. You get that by being mentored by a great father.
I will think about a moment on Monday after Tiger won the US Open in a playoff, when he took his little girl in his arms and kissed her. When mom took her back, little Sam protested, and in an instant she was back in Dad's arms.
I will think about my three girls and how they have turned out to be wonderful, responsible and caring young ladies.
I will think how there's now way I get to be the father of all four, without their mother...who is the best thing to happen to me everyday.
I will think about my father who worked so hard for so many years, and who has managed to make retirement look good for anyone who works too much.
I will think about a father from the Bible named Jarius, who would stop at nothing to help his dying daughter. ( Mark 5)
I will think about the blessing my heavenly Father is to me. After all, the most difficult thing a Father could ever do is to "give up" His Son for me.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Preaching
Our summer series this year is "Wise Words for not so wise people." I think we all need a heavy dose of wisdom... and Proverbs certainly is a great book to learn from.
So far,I have recieved alot of very positive comments. This book and the messages seem to resonate with people...
Planning preaching takes alot of time, prayer, thought and conversation. The fact is that I am not one of those guys that can wake up every Monday and say, "I wonder what I should preach about this week?" If I did that, I would not last 3 weeks. Some guys can do that... Other guys take chunks of time off in the summer, go away for 3-4 weeks and work up a full years sermon titles and texts. For me, things slow down enough around here that I can give more time in my daily schedule to this. I have found it is better for me to bite it off in chunks , rather than trying to plan for a full year all at once.
So I plan 6-8 months in advance. That way I have a good idea of where I need to go. I am reading for messages that are in Nov. and Dec. right now. And I read for stories and illustrations in newspapers and the net with an eye toward what I am preaching about in the coming weeks and months.
Right now I am planned through about Feb. of 09. That doesn't mean that I can't change. And certainly it is all really up to God and His leading. There are times I plan, and it does get changed. I am good with that...
Sooooo... I was thinking... If you go to FCC what things or topics would you like to hear about? Do you have a particular subject, or passage that you would like to hear more about and learn from? Is there a concern or a need that you would to hear more about what the Word of God says?
I have some ideas for next spring and summer, but I welcome the input.
By the way, if you don't attend FCC, send some ideas of what you would like your preacher to address. It may not fit for us, but you never know, it might spark something in my spirit... which I can pray about and see how God leads.
Thanks.
So far,I have recieved alot of very positive comments. This book and the messages seem to resonate with people...
Planning preaching takes alot of time, prayer, thought and conversation. The fact is that I am not one of those guys that can wake up every Monday and say, "I wonder what I should preach about this week?" If I did that, I would not last 3 weeks. Some guys can do that... Other guys take chunks of time off in the summer, go away for 3-4 weeks and work up a full years sermon titles and texts. For me, things slow down enough around here that I can give more time in my daily schedule to this. I have found it is better for me to bite it off in chunks , rather than trying to plan for a full year all at once.
So I plan 6-8 months in advance. That way I have a good idea of where I need to go. I am reading for messages that are in Nov. and Dec. right now. And I read for stories and illustrations in newspapers and the net with an eye toward what I am preaching about in the coming weeks and months.
Right now I am planned through about Feb. of 09. That doesn't mean that I can't change. And certainly it is all really up to God and His leading. There are times I plan, and it does get changed. I am good with that...
Sooooo... I was thinking... If you go to FCC what things or topics would you like to hear about? Do you have a particular subject, or passage that you would like to hear more about and learn from? Is there a concern or a need that you would to hear more about what the Word of God says?
I have some ideas for next spring and summer, but I welcome the input.
By the way, if you don't attend FCC, send some ideas of what you would like your preacher to address. It may not fit for us, but you never know, it might spark something in my spirit... which I can pray about and see how God leads.
Thanks.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Life and Death....It's real
Tim Russert's death hit alot of people hard. It seems (at least from a distance), that he was a really great guy. I didn't watch "Meet the Press" much, because I am usually pretty busy on Sunday Mornings. But his political anaylsis, especially during the election years was always brilliant... and easy to understand. He was truly an "everyman" kind of guy.
I have been interested in hearing alot of the comments about Him. I am listening to his doctor right now. The statement, "We all struggle with the limits of what we can do." He is right.Great doctors are still limited. The fact is that God is the one who is the giver of life. Great doctors, medicine and lifestyle adjustments are all good. But the reality is that we all will die.
Soooooo.... we need to look beyond this life. We need to be ready for eternity. There is only one way to do that, and that is through a relationship with Jesus Christ. No one else offers what Christ offers. He offers life eternal. He offers a way to have our sins washed away through his blood.
I did DVR "Meet the Press" from yesterday. Tom Brokaw and Russert's collegues all talked extensively about one characteristic that he had. He was prepared. He was offended when politcal figures came into Meet the Press unprepared. ( David Dukes for instance.) Over and over they talked about how prepared Russert was for any one that came in and sat across from him.
My hope is that he was just as prepared to stand before God. Last Friday was his day. That is how it works some times. It is a surprise. Statistical information says that 400,000 Americans die of sudden cardiac arrests. We have to be ready.
On another note, Baby Grace is now 4 days old! Lizzie and Grace came home Sunday... everything is good. Pam is staying there with them. That has got to be great fun for her too... I think this must be one of the sweet payoff's for having girls ( for a mom). Thanks for your prayers for them both.
I have been interested in hearing alot of the comments about Him. I am listening to his doctor right now. The statement, "We all struggle with the limits of what we can do." He is right.Great doctors are still limited. The fact is that God is the one who is the giver of life. Great doctors, medicine and lifestyle adjustments are all good. But the reality is that we all will die.
Soooooo.... we need to look beyond this life. We need to be ready for eternity. There is only one way to do that, and that is through a relationship with Jesus Christ. No one else offers what Christ offers. He offers life eternal. He offers a way to have our sins washed away through his blood.
I did DVR "Meet the Press" from yesterday. Tom Brokaw and Russert's collegues all talked extensively about one characteristic that he had. He was prepared. He was offended when politcal figures came into Meet the Press unprepared. ( David Dukes for instance.) Over and over they talked about how prepared Russert was for any one that came in and sat across from him.
My hope is that he was just as prepared to stand before God. Last Friday was his day. That is how it works some times. It is a surprise. Statistical information says that 400,000 Americans die of sudden cardiac arrests. We have to be ready.
On another note, Baby Grace is now 4 days old! Lizzie and Grace came home Sunday... everything is good. Pam is staying there with them. That has got to be great fun for her too... I think this must be one of the sweet payoff's for having girls ( for a mom). Thanks for your prayers for them both.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Grace
Grace Capri Smith was born at 5:54 PM on Jul 13, 2008. Her vital statistics are 8lbs, 9 oz. 20.5 in long. Everything is great for her, Mom and dad are great too. So are the grandparents...
Psalm 139:13-18
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake,
am still with you.
Psalm 139:13-18
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake,
am still with you.
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