The early morning skies were clear and the air chilly as I heard the automatic brew start on the coffee pot in the kitchen. The aroma of Gevalia's Kona blend was soon wafting through the house. As I began to get around, I realized that the house was very cool - so I turned the fireplace on. Yes, I know, I wish I could build a fire...but our home came with an gas insert, so I just turn it on. I hope to get into November before having to fire up the furnace.

I was reading Luke 2 this morning. The "Christmas" passage. What struck me in an interesting fashion is verse 25: "...And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him..." It was the phrase "looking for the consolation of Israel" that grabbed my attention. This word consolation is the Greek word: paraklesis. Perhaps it doesn't immediately ring familiar in your mind. A closely related word: parakletos might be more familiar. The first is a word that means something along the lines of "a coming to one's aid; an encouragement, an exhortation". The second is a word used of both the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ in the New Testament. It is translated "Helper" of the Holy Spirit in John's gospel and "Advocate" of Jesus Christ in John's first epistle.

Now, back to Luke 2. It was this godly man Simeon who was looking for the consolation, or the One from whom aid would come, to Israel. This word clearly is a reference to Jesus Christ. Jesus was the consolation, the encouragement, the One from whom aid would come! I love the way that Scripture refers to God. I am always seeking out the names of God, as well as, terms that reveal more about Him to me. Terms such as: the God of hope (Romans 15), the God of love and peace (2 Corinthians 13), the God of all comfort (2 Corinthians 1)... By the way, did you know that the word "comfort" in 2 Corinthians is the same word "consolation" in Luke 2? Isn't Scripture wonderfully consistent?

So, what does it mean to me? Well, to keep the context of the text, Jesus Christ was clearly coming to be the Messiah for His people. He was coming to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. It was to these Jews He would come as their Comforter, their Consolation. Upon their rejection He did offer Himself to the Gentiles - for which I am now eternally grateful!!

I have these things as comfort / consolation / encouragement (all the same word) now in my life:
1. Jesus Christ - my Consolation, my Advocate
2. Holy Spirit - my Helper, my Comforter
3. Scripture itself - my Encouragement (Romans 15:4 - "...that through perseverance and encouragement (paraklesis) of the Scriptures we might have hope..."

I don't know what you are facing in life. I pray that you come to realize the comfort that is found only in a wonderful relationship with Jesus Christ as your Lord, Savior and Consolation, the Holy Spirit as your Helper and the Scriptures as your continual Encouragement.

Getting back in the Saddle

So its been a month... over a month... since my last post. Sheesh! I lost the desire to keep this blogging rig moving forward over the last several weeks. Actually, I think over the summer I fell out of the habit of posting and then it just kind of fell apart.

New beginnings: I love them. Seems like life is full of them. Jesus Christ gave me a big one in 1998... and yesterday. Isn't His grace and mercy incredible? How often I fail Him on a daily basis! How often He allows me to "start over" after a humbling and wonderful time of confession and repentance. The righteous man falls 7 times and yet he rises again. No excuses for the falling - but encouragement to keep getting back up!!

I am currently reading The Passionate Preacher: Previously Unpublished Sermons by Robert Murray McCheyne. It is edited by Dr. Michael M. McMullen. I suggest you do some study of McCheyne's life. What an incredible, passionate light for Jesus! Although he lived in the early 1800's, his sermons could still "preach" today. They are incredibly 'relevant' - must be because they are based on Truth. Seriously, pick up a copy or ask me to borrow mine.

Yesterday I raked our front & side yards. Yes, its the beginning of the Fall yard work! I like raking, but I don't really care to get up in the morning and see that that yard is again covered with leaves. Less than 12 hours after I initially raked!! We are experiencing some light rain - which helps with that. The trouble is that wet leaves really stick to the ground and driveway. Oh well, we are enjoying all the maples we have in the yard. God has blessed us in this home and our yard is a rainbow of colors in the Fall. Some maples turn yellow and some red - all drop their leaves at different times... which means lots of opportunities for large piles of leaves to jump into!

Today's java: Gevalia Maragogype - Limited Edition. Good stuff & brewed strong! (Full-bodied Maragogype (Ma-ra-go-hee'-pay) is a smooth, flavorful coffee from Mexico. Literally translated as "giant bean," these plump Arabicas are carefully nurtured in the Chiapas region.) ~ from Gevalia

Latest surplus picture

I got this tankers(?) helmet while out near Ft. Lewis in Washington St. The first day I saw it the lady working the shop (an asian) blurted out: "You believe Jesus Christ?". We were 'shocked' at first because we were wondering how she knew we were all Christians. Then we were encouraged because we thought we had been acting in a way that might lead her to think that way. After answering in the affirmative, she said, "I give you good discount". Well, that was really cool and we ended up buying some sweet merchandise. I, however, let the hat go. I ended up going back the next day to pick up some inert gernades for souveniers for my two oldest sons and also ended up with the hat.

Oh, by the way, after telling this story to some of the soldiers and acting pleased that she had recognized that we were Christians... they told us that she says that to everyone. Hmmpfph.

This picture was taking as me and Pete were headed to Lowe's. I wore it the entire time we were driving around in rush hour traffic. I got some pretty good looks and a couple people to laugh...which made my day.

And I wasn't even jacked on java.

Back home:

Monday morning...one cup of java into the day...and all is well. I am attempting to recover from slight jet lag. There is only 3 hours difference between Northeast Indiana and Seattle, WA, but sometimes that can make a huge impact.

I apologize to all who checked this blog and expected to see something on Thursday and Friday of last week. I ended up with one of my infamous migraines while on this missions trip to Ft. Lewis - and frankly could not get online to get pics or text posted to this blog. I know you understand.

We arrived back home in South Bend a little after 11pm on Saturday night. I ended up falling into bed on Sunday morning around 2am. (This of course made for a long day on Sunday - with all the regular responsibilities and the reports from WA, etc) I also had planned a SNAC activity for our teens after the evening service - and then went from that into the tailend of a board meeting. Nothing like packing it all in on one day - especially the first day back from the West coast.

This trip was very rewarding. It was great to get the work done out at the Christian Fellowship House in Tillicum, WA - and see the soldiers enthusiasm for our efforts. It was even more rewarding to minister to these incredibly strong - and young - military personnel. These men and women prepare to fight physical battles across the world, and remain - as the rest of us - entrenched in spiritual warfare as well. I pray that our little conversations...those that ran deep quickly...made an impact and encouraged them to keep on going for Christ. I will never look at the news the same, nor will I ever think of the military without thinking of the fine soldiers I met while visiting Ft. Lewis. They truly are heroes.

It is good to be back home and jumping back into my ministry here with both feet. I am energized to be faithful in serving my Commander, Jesus Christ. While in Seattle I read a verse in Psalm 37 which included these two words: ...cultivate faithfulness... That is my desire for my life: to cultivate faithfulness in every aspect of it.

While I go to meditate even more on how these words will impact my life, I will once again stop by the java fountain and refill. I've been drinking from my Starbucks mug that I purchased while in WA... good stuff.

Wednesday:

As I wrap up this day - (I know that it is already "tomorrow" in Indiana) - I am amazed at how much we are able to get done. Before breakfast the drywall was being hung and the last little bits of wiring were taken care of. Immediately after breakfast the ladies went with Susan Hand on to the post and attended a ladies bible study. They saw one of the many, many memorial services being prepared for 3 soldiers of the 364th Engineering Regiment who were victims of a homicide / suicide attack on a bridge. We were also able to take a break at lunch and go visit the Peugeot Sound just minutes away from the Christian Fellowship House. We enjoyed the beautiful weather and the interaction of Ron and Susan during lunch. After lunch we had to stop by a Starbucks to get coffee - after all, it all started here! We then got back to the house and continued our work: trimming trees, hanging doors, mudding drywall, cleaning, sorting and a host of other things. At dinner there were again a number of soldiers in attendance and we spent the rest of the night fellowshipping with them and getting to know them better. (We also celebrated Marv Noser's 60th birthday!!!) It is now well after 10pm local time... and we are slowly but surely falling into bed.

Random Pics...

Here is probably the most poignant moment of the week so far. Hannah De Roo (the young lady on the right) shares with the group how she lost her husband in Iraq a year ago. She spoke of the difficulties before he deployed for his second tour in Iraq - as she battled making Christ her treasure above all else. Just two months into his second deployment, he died. He was the first casualty of 3rd Brigade, stationed here at Ft. Lewis. His brigade will be coming home from deployment this next week. Hannah has a unique ministry to other widows on the post. She is raising their young son - he'll be 2 years old in December.
A couple pictures from our Bible study with the soldiers. There were approximately 25-30 people in attendance: 11 from CBC, the rest were soldiers - some freshly returned from Iraq, others preparing to deploy within the next few months.These are random pics of the work being done on the storage facility at the Christian Fellowship House. Total wiring of the facility, insulation, sub-siding the outside, framing of a double-door and some misc things are a few of the things that already have been accomplished. The team is eagerly anticipating finishing this major project ahead of time...the Lord willing.

Please keep us in prayer as we try to encourage Ron & Susan Hand, the troops we interact with and complete the tasks that are set before us. You have a vital part of this ministry through prayer. We have many stories to tell as we think about returning - of how the Lord is working through us and others to draw us closer to Himself.

Starting the work...

Here is the work team from CBC preparing to head to South Bend Regional Airport:

(from left to right)

Toby P. (driver only), David D., Marv N., Joe B., Carol N., Jason S., Sherrie M., Pete B., Bob M., Pastor Mark, Julie P. and Rick S.

This picture was taken at 4:00 a.m - just before the team loaded into 3 mini-vans heading north; first to South Bend and then flying to Detroit.

On this 167 mile flight aboard a CRJ jet, the team noticed that Congressman Joe Donnelly also was aboard the flight. At this time we are unsure if he noticed us.
We decided to rate our air travel using the "mint" method. Let me explain: there are a couple of team members who do not like to fly, and rely on mints to keep their stomach settled. The flight from South Bend Regional to Detroit Metro was only a "one mint" flight - meaning that it was a very smooth flight.
We left Detroit Metro after a two hour lay-over and headed westward for Seattle's airport: SEATAC. This was to be a 4 hour and 48 minute flight. We only experienced minor turbulence - thus causing it to be related a "2-3 mint" flight. While most of the flight the ground was obscurred by clouds, as we approached Minnesota the clouds began to break, and from 36,000 feet we saw the patchwork of God's creation. Even more exciting was seeing the Rocky Mountains, the Continental Divide and as we approached Washington state: Mt. Ranier, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Baker and Mt. Hood. These majestic mountains, especially Mt. Ranier, jutted up through the clouds and were visible for miles and miles. We were in awe (as flatlanders) of the beauty of God's handiwork. Arrival, baggage claim and locating our missionary Ron Hand were all done easily - and a tribute to the power of prayer.
This is the storage facility behind the Christian Fellowship House that we are working on. On the left side of the building (the back side) is where we are doing most of the work. Visible is the insulation that eventually will be installed, as well lumber, tools and other misc. items.
The team was also able to visit Ft. Lewis and our missionary Ron Hand was able to take us on a tour where he interacts on a daily basis with our nation's troops. He has such a valuable ministry and his heart for these men and women was really evident as we drove with him from location to location on this massive installation. He and Susan have a wonderful home that is used regularly by the troops here. I hope to post some pictures from our interaction with these men and women, as we plan on having a Bible study tonight (Tuesday).
On this day of remembrance of one of nation's greatest tragedies, we are so very thankful for those who daily risk their lives that we might live in freedom. God bless our troops!

Go West young man!

On Monday morning, (9/10/07), in Leesburg, IN, a group will be assembling in the parking lot of Calvary Baptist Church. In the pre-dawn hours they will gather into three mini-vans and head north to a local airport. They will then begin a half-day trip west and arrive in Seattle, WA to begin their mission of encouragement to our missionaries Ron & Susan Hand.

Ron and Susan have a special ministry to our military forces located at Ft. Lewis, WA. They run a "hospitality house" and provide various means of encouragement to our troops as they prepare to ship out, while spouses are deployed and when they return from deployment. Our mission will be to do some construction work to aid the Hands in their storage space, but also to encourage them and the soldiers we meet.

We are very excited about this ministry opportunity! I intend to post updates as time and internet connections allow of our work and ministry while we are there near Ft. Lewis. Check back daily for these updates. As you do - will you pray for our team, the Hands and especially our troops? Thank you and God bless!

Snapshots of the Psalm 28 God

Psalm 28 - click here to read the passage.

v.1 - my Rock
v.7 - my Strength & my Shield
v.8 - my Saving refuge
v.9 - my Shepherd

Rock. Solid. Immovable. Unchanging. That's my God. Totally reliable when life goes upside down. I cling to Him. The Rock.

Strength. Power. Ability. And it's transferable. To me. Totally available when I finally understand that I can't do this on my own.

Shield. Defense. Covered. Protection. Life gets offensive at times. God allows me to be hidden in Him.

Saving Refuge. Safety. Security. Eternal. No more condemnation. None. Satan can point his wagging finger elsewhere.

Shepherd. Caregiver. Watchman. Overseer. My favorite. God holds me securely in His arms forever... what a picture. What a God.

Book Review: Lone Survivor by Marcus Luttrell

The subtitle to this book is: The eyewitness account of Operation Redwing and the lost heroes of SEAL team 10

I read. A lot. Rarely does a book grip me emotionally. This one did. I knew the story and had already read bits and pieces online about the account. I had listened to Marcus Luttrell's interviews. Nothing prepared me for how I was moved when I read the sacrifice of our military as they bravely fought the Taliban in the mountainous regions of Afghanistan.

From his early days of training to enter the military, his choice to become a Navy SEAL straight through Hell Week and on to the Middle East deployments - you'll be able to get inside the head of Marcus Luttrell. What you will also be exposed to is his heart. It remains as big as the state of Texas from which he comes.

As I read of the battle in which he would lose the three members of his SEAL team on the mountain, my guts just churned. His tale of escaping and eluding the enemy until his final rescue by US Army special forces is absolutely riveting. I cannot but highly recommend this book. I could not put it down.

In a day when the mass media tends to color patriotism a deplorable shade, it was a relief and an inspiration to be reminded once again of those men and women who volunteer... who choose... to sacrifice on my behalf. This is a must read.

A Night at the Ballpark

I am so proud of my kids! They entered a reading 'contest' at the local public library and 4 of the 5 (the youngest doesn't read yet) received free tickets to a minor league baseball game for their efforts. We went last night to watch the Fort Wayne Wizards take on the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers. The final score was Ft.Wayne - 9; Wisconsin - 8. However, we didn't last the entire game. Last night was an incredibly hot and humid evening. Heat indexes were in the 100's. We did make it through 4.5 innings before my 2 year old just melted down. Trying to maintain control in the middle of the bleachers was way too much for us! We ended up leaving around 8:30p and took a leisurely ride home - stopping at McDonalds for fries and then later for gas & a break. We rolled into the driveway around 9:45p and dropped everyone into bed for a well-deserved rest. Below are pictures from the game:

Philippians 1:29 (nasb) "...For to you it has been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake..."

I have been meditating on this verse for the last three days. I am encouraged to see that through the sovereignty of my God He has allowed me to believe in Him. At the same time I am also excited to see that through His sovereignty He allows me to suffer...on His behalf, or for His sake.

Doesn't this change the whole face of suffering for the Christian? It seems to me that since God is sovereignly in control of everything (salvation and suffering) that even when my life my seem out of control... it isn't. That means that God is only allowing me to experience what I can handle (totally dependent on Him, of course) and not a bit more. Another observation is that I am 'joining with Christ' as I suffer for doing what is right.

As I continue to face what I term "suffering", I face it now expectantly and joyfully.

Putting My Daughter to Bed Two Hours After the Bridge Collapsed

(Author: John Piper) Original Article

At about 6 PM tonight [Wednesday, Aug.1, 2007] the bridge of Interstate 35W over the Mississippi River in Minneapolis collapsed. I am writing this about three hours after the bridge fell. The bridge is located within sight of Bethlehem Baptist Church. Most of us who minister at the church cross this bridge several times a week. At this point I don't know if any staff was on the bridge. Desiring God offices are about a mile from the bridge.

There are no firm facts at this point about the total number of injuries and fatalities. When we crossed the bridge Tuesday on our way out of town, there was extensive repair work happening on the surface of the bridge with single lane traffic. One speculates about the unusual stresses on the bridge with jackhammers and other surface replacement equipment. This was the fortieth anniversary of the bridge.

Tonight for our family devotions our appointed reading was Luke 13:1-9. It was not my choice. This is surely no coincidence. O that all of the Twin Cities, in shock at this major calamity, would hear what Jesus has to say about it from Luke 13:1-5. People came to Jesus with heart-wrenching news about the slaughter of worshipers by Pilate. Here is what he said.

There were some present at that very time who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And he answered them, "Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered in this way? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them: do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others who lived in Jerusalem? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish."

Jesus implies that those who brought him this news thought he would say that those who died, deserved to die, and that those who didn't die did not deserve to die. That is not what he said. He said, everyone deserves to die. And if you and I don't repent, we too will perish. This is a stunning response. It only makes sense from a view of reality that is radically oriented on God.
All of us have sinned against God, not just against man. This is an outrage ten thousand times worse than the collapse of the 35W bridge. That any human is breathing at this minute on this planet is sheer mercy from God. God makes the sun rise and the rain fall on those who do not treasure him above all else. He causes the heart to beat and the lungs to work for millions of people who deserve his wrath. This a view of reality that desperately needs to be taught in our churches, so that we are prepared for the calamities of the world.

The meaning of the collapse of this bridge is that John Piper is a sinner and should repent or forfeit his life forever. That means I should turn from the silly preoccupations of my life and focus my mind's attention and my heart's affection on God and embrace Jesus Christ as my only hope for the forgiveness of my sins and for the hope of eternal life. That is God's message in the collapse of this bridge. That is his most merciful message: there is still time to turn from sin and unbelief and destruction for those of us who live. If we could see the eternal calamity from which he is offering escape we would hear this as the most precious message in the world.

We prayed during our family devotions. Talitha (11 years old) and Noel and I prayed earnestly for the families affected by the calamity and for the others in our city. Talitha prayed “Please don't let anyone blame God for this but give thanks that they were saved.” When I sat on her bed and tucked her in and blessed her and sang over her a few minutes ago, I said, “You know, Talitha, that was a good prayer, because when people ‘blame' God for something, they are angry with him, and they are saying that he has done something wrong. That's what “blame” means: accuse somebody of wrongdoing. But you and I know that God did not do anything wrong. God always does what is wise. And you and I know that God could have held up that bridge with one hand.” Talitha said, “With his pinky.” “Yes,” I said, “with his pinky. Which means that God had a purpose for not holding up that bridge, knowing all that would happen, and he is infinitely wise in all that he wills.”

Talitha said, “Maybe he let it fall because he wanted all the people of Minneapolis to fear him.” “Yes, Talitha,” I said, “I am sure that is one of the reasons God let the bridge fall.”
I sang to her the song I always sing,

Come rest your head and nestle gently

And do not fear the dark of night.

Almighty God keeps watch intently,

And guards your life with all his might.

Doubt not his love, nor power to keep,

He never fails, nor does he sleep.

I said, “You know, Talitha, that is true whether you die in a bridge collapse, or in a car accident, or from cancer, or terrorism, or old age. God always keeps you, even when you die. So you don't need to be afraid, do you.” “No,” she shook her head. I leaned down and kissed her. “Good night. I love you.”

Tonight across the Twin Cities families are wondering if they will ever kiss a loved one good night again. Some will not. I am praying that they will find Jesus Christ to be their Rock and Refuge in these agonizing hours of uncertainty and even loss.

The word “bridge” does not occur in the Bible. There may be two reasons. One is that God doesn't build bridges, he divides seas. The other is that usually his people must pass through the deadly currents of suffering and death, not simply ride over them. “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you” (Isaiah 43:2). They may drown you. But I will be with you in life and death.

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life . . . will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Killed all day long. But not separated from Christ. We go through the river. Not over it. He went before us, crucified. He came out on the other side. He knows the way through. With him we will make it. That is the message we have for the precious sinners in the Twin Cities. He died for your sins. He rose again. He saves all who trust him. We die, but because of him, we do not die.
Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.”

Talitha is sleeping now. But one day she will die. I teach her this. I will not always be there to bless her. But Jesus is alive and is the same yesterday today and forever. He will be with her because she trusts him. And she will make it through the river.

Weeping with those who weep, and those who should,

Pastor John

Psalm 71:20 You who have made me see many troubles and calamities will revive me again.

The Christian and Suffering...

I recently read an article by Michelle Malkin on a news story that hardly draws any attention in the United States. It was entitled, The Martyrs No One Cares About:

The blood of innocent Christian missionaries spills on Afghan sands. The world watches and yawns. The United Nations offers nothing more than a formal expression of "concern." Where is the global uproar over the human rights abuses unfolding before our eyes?

For two weeks, a group of South Korean Christians has been held hostage by Taliban thugs in Afghanistan. This is the largest group of foreign hostages taken in Afghanistan since Operation Enduring Freedom began in 2001. What was their offense? Were they smuggling arms into the country? No. Inciting violence? No. They were peaceful believers in Christ on short-term medical and humanitarian missions. Seventeen of the 23 hostages are females. Most of them are nurses who provide social services and relief. (full article here...)


I have decided to begin a word study of "suffering" in the New Testament. I hope to post findings as I continue in this study.

...but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that at the revelation of His glory, you may rejoice with exultation... 1 Peter 4:13 nasb

Another Book Review

Two eyes break the surface of the water. Their steely stare is barely visible behind the camouflaged face. They say you can’t judge a book by it’s cover, but I felt drawn to read Stealth Attack by Ray Pritchard – just by looking at it.

I have to admit that as a pastor I speak of spiritual warfare all the time. I hardly understand it though. I feel its impact in my life and the lives of my church members. It has been around since Satan first tempted Eve, and continues to this day. Yes, Jesus Christ won the war over Satan, sin and death 2000 years ago but as the enemy retreats to it’s impending doom, skirmishes rise up in my life and yours. We can be victorious in these skirmishes!

Ray Pritchard takes a look at the terrorism that we know today in our physical world and uses it to get our attention of the tactics of the enemy in our spiritual world. He writes about this warfare’s beginning, leader and eventual end. He speaks of how the devil can get footholds in our lives and how we as believers must resist him.

One of the most challenging thoughts in this book was the fact that Satan doesn’t always attack our weaknesses, but sometimes concentrates on our self-perceived strengths. I don’t know about you, but I really guard my weaknesses – things like internet purity, overeating and treating my wife improperly. The areas that I think I am strong in, I tend to let slide…and that is exactly what the devil is looking for. 1 Peter 5 speaks to the devil as being a ‘roaring lion, seeking to destroy’ us. Lions don’t attack fiercely guarded animals – just the ones who think they’re strong enough to stray from protection. You need to read this book!

I am always looking for reading to go along with my Bible reading that challenges me in my daily walk. Stealth Attack not only challenged me, but encouraged me in the battle as well. Mr. Pritchard is very easy to understand and uses many captivating illustrations to make his points in this 150 page book. I highly recommend this book to boost your defenses against the one who is determined to bring you down.

Book Review Time!

I do book reviews for Familyman Ministries - please check out their site. Here is one of the latest reviews for them:

The shrill ringing of the phone broke the sterile silence that had enveloped my office. It was one of the men in my church asking for a suggestion to read for his weekly men’s small group study. Every pastor should jump at those types of questions, shouldn’t he? In my pastoral leap, I landed flat on my face…or so it seemed. I told him I would get back with him, hung up and promptly panicked.

It was a day or two later I received an email concerning a book with its own study guide entitled, Hazards of Being a Man by Jeffery Miller. I ordered it and read it. I immediately was convinced that this book would go on to be a resource I could recommend to men’s study groups and men looking to improve their Christian walks. I expected the same old admonitions of evils of sexual sin and time spent away from family – but was encouraged with so much more! Yes, Miller does address these issues, but stepped outside the ‘norm’ and hit me hard in several other areas. He writes of the hazards of: deflecting responsibility, manipulation, misplaced priorities, individualism, lust, insensitivity, absence, partial obedience, unresolved anger, discontentment, unteachability and unchecked motives.

With each hazard, Jeffery Miller uses a biblical example to illustrate his point, thus tying Scripture to each and every lesson to be learned. At the end of every chapter he suggests how to right the wrongs, provides reflection questions and (my favorite) gives Bible memory work to coincide with the lesson. This book stretched me in uncomfortable ways!

It would be a great study guide to use in a men’s group, as an individual man or even a father / son study. Just under 200 pages, this book is easy to read with short and to the point chapters. If you desire straight-forward advice, this book is for you! I highly recommend it, and will no doubt be re-reading it for myself soon.

Mis-diagnosis

Monday (July 9th) I was working in the garden and came away with some sort of rash. I usually have no problem with these types of things - however, my arms and legs were covered in a 'hives' type rash. No problem, I thought. That is what I thought during the morning hours. By noon, I was getting lethargic and pretty tired. I lay down after lunch for a quick nap and then got up to discover that I was extremely sore in both joints and soft tissue. I thought I had just 'overdone' the weeding / picking of veggies. Throughout the afternoon I just couldn't get going and fell asleep on a lawn chair and the sofa at different times during the day. The stiffness and pain just kept getting worse. I was in bed by 10:30p and woke up this morning...covered with the rash. My entire body was one big rashy mess. I also felt like I had been worked over with a baseball bat. I could hardly get motivated to take a shower. I was really in a lot of pain. I forced myself through it and went to work. All morning long I was again lethargic and sore. Everyone at the church offered their well-intended advice. All were agreed that I 'must' see a doctor. By lunch I was exhausted and really discouraged about not getting much done. I came home, hungry but not willing to eat - so I lay down on the sofa for another 30 minute nap. When I got up I ate half a turkey and tomatoe sandwich and then headed back to work, against my wife's wishes. On the way, I discovered my Ibuprofen in the car. I quickly swallowed a couple and hoped for the best. In about 45 minutes or so I was beginning to feel a little bit better. That's when I got a call from a fellow staff member who was talking with a parishoner about my rash. (You just got to love it when it gets around that you have a rash) They determined I had what is called Fifth disease. Don't ask me what it is - but they suggested I stay away from pregnant women and allow it to take its course. Funny thing was, by time I went home (around 5:30 or so) I was feeling pretty good - and the rash was fading. Even now, the tingling / itching is dying down and the rash is all but gone.
I find it humorous when people attempt to diagnosis what might be 'ailing' you. Sometimes they are right; sometimes wrong. One thing is for sure: spiritually speaking there is only one Authority that is right 100% of the time when it comes to diagnosing the 'ailments' of the heart. That is God's Word. You might ignore the 'rash' on your soul, but friend, I recommend you tend to the words of the Great Physician and allow the Balm of Gilead to soothe your discomfort. When was the last time you filled your prescription in the Word?

7-07-07 - What a day!

So today's date is pretty cool! I didn't, however, go out and buy a lottery ticket or any participate in any other risky (unless you count working in the garden in 90* heat as being risky).
Latest book review:
Stealth Attack: Protecting yourself against Satan's plan to destroy your life by Ray Pritchard. (Ray Pritchard's blog) I picked this book up while I was in Schroon Lake, New York last week. I and two of my youth leaders took 12 teens up to the Word of Life Island for a week of camp. Mr. Pritchard was one of the speakers for those adults who were staying on the 'mainland'. Regrettably I was only able to listen to one of his sessions as I spent a lot of time with my teens and also completing some work I had to do. When I heard he was giving the sermons that this book was birthed from, I bought it. The book is a great reminder to every Christian about their participation in spiritual warfare. Using modern day terrorism as an example of how Satan might war in our lives, he makes the unseen understandable. Perhaps the greatest concept of the book (and the one session I attended) was the fact that Satan often does not attack our weaknesses, but our self-perceived strengths. We often guard our weaknesses, don't we? However, we grow slack and less diligent in the areas that we perceive as our strengths...and they by default become weak areas. I was challenged greatly by this. Ray Pritchard also speaks to our greatest weapon: prayer. I don't know about you, but I struggle so with prayer! It is my greatest weapon, and yet I don't utilize it nearly enough. It's like going back to flintlock rifles after being given laser-guided missles... it just doesn't make sense.
Well, if you read and are a Christian, you need to get a copy of this book. It is easily understandable and relatively short. There are many illustrations used throughout the book, making it very relevant. Keep the fight brothers and sisters!
It was also my first time to hear Pastor John Bouquet of Bethel Baptist Church, Savannah, OH. He preached through Colossians - which is one of my favorite books in all the New Testament. I was also challenged to Exalt God Only in the area of prayer during these amazing sessions with him. He is a bold man of God and if you ever have the chance, please plan on sitting under his teaching!

an arrogant reading of scripture...

I have been reading in 2 Samuel and the Psalms as I work through David's life. I found myself getting a little arrogant as I read of David's struggles in 2 Sam 15. A little background:

His son, Absalom, has been turning the hearts of the people against David. The Bible says in v.12 that the "...conspiracy was strong, for the people increase continually with Absalom...". It was at this point that David tucks tail and runs.

He flees! What in the world is this? Is this not the giant slayer? Is this not the one of whom it was sung, "...Saul has killed his thousands, but David has killed ten thousands...?" Is this not the lion and bear slayer? Is this not the one who has experienced massive victories over the Philistines? Is this not the one to whom God said that He would establish His throne forever? (I could go on and on, but you get the point)

In 2 Samuel 5 we read, "...v.10 and David became greater and greater, for the LORD God of Hosts was with him...v.12...and David realized that the LORD had established him as king over Israel, and that He had exalted his kingdom for the sake of His people Israel..."

I wanted to bolt upright out of my chair and shout to David in chapter 15, "turn back to chapter 5... read it again!!" and then in that moment I realized that David and i are very much alike.

Oh, I wish I could say that I was like David in his conquests and quick repentance... but I am like him in his swift forgetfulness of the mighty working of God in his life. David's God hadn't changed, but David's perspective of Him did. God no longer could keep David safe - or so David thought. God could no longer be faithful - or so David's actions revealed. God could no longer be trusted - or so David's quick reaction to gather trusted servants and run tells us.

Where have I forgotten the mighty hand of God in my life? Where do I doubt the faithfulness of my God? Where am I trusting in my own understanding, rather than trusting the One who controls everything around me?

My prayer, for me - for you, is that we come back to a quick remembrance of the goodness of God in our life.

David did.

so, what's in your iPod?

Have you seen the commercial for some credit card company where they ask, "what's in your wallet?" It got me to thinking about my iPod... funny isnt it - the connections our minds make?

I thought I would list my podcasts that I currently am listening to & hopefully hear from a few of you on ideas of things to add. Here goes:

• Cornerstone Simi Audio podcasts - Francis Chan
• Desiring God Radio - John Piper
• Mars Hill Bible Church - Rob Bell
• Walk in the Word - James MacDonald
• The Dave Ramsey Show - Dave Ramsey

Piper is my favorite teacher - followed closely by James MacDonald. However, Francis Chan is quickly becoming one of my favs. I wish I could find the time view his video podcast, but its hard to concentrate on the driving when its playing on the iPod. I typically listen to my pcs on my commute back and forth from the church (only 10 miles one way).

I would welcome anyone's suggestions on podcasts - I really enjoy keeping my mind focused on Christ.

So, I must comment on coffee before I wrap this up. But let me ask you, do you have any idols of the heart? What?!?! Idols of the heart. You might not even realize that you have an idol. But let me give you a clue on how to discover your own idol. You discover your idol when you really want something and when you don't get it, you get angry... or frustrated... or disgusted.

Like... like, well, like last Tuesday. Last Tuesday I got up early to get around for the day and was making my coffee. I have this great pot that brews single mugs of joe. These little filters usually do a wonderful job in the process of making coffee. However, last Tuesday I was trying to get the mug made and clean up at the same time when the bottom of the filter broke open... dropping all the grounds into my mug. Umm... can you say "loud sigh!!"?? Not that big of a deal, because I would just run it back through another filter, right? Well, that was the plan... until that filter broke. At this point I went from frustrated to mad.

And God poked me in the chest...

And I just kind of was like, "C'mon God, I haven't even had my caffeine yet and you want to deal with me on my idols?? Seriously, let me have my java first and then deal with me!!!" Well, needless to say, God was dealing with me - and still is - about this idol called caffeine.

I want to put Him first, even before coffee... did you ever think you'd hear me say that?

Happy St.Patrick's Day!

A blessed St. Patrick's day to you!

Tonight we 'celebrated' this unique Irish holiday with a fabulous feast. We had herb roasted leg of lamb, soda bread with brie cheese, cabbage rolls and sparkling grape juice. We typically have corned beef and cabbage, a boiled dinner, but decided to try something different this year.

My wife was not very excited about the lamb, as she had had it before and didn't care for it. She didn't mind the roast though. It turned out pretty good. Lots of garlic!!

Earlier as we shopped for ingredients, I even got a "special" coffee called "kiss me, i'm irish". It was a latte with Irish creme and something else that I can't recall. It was okay, but wasnt very hot when I received it. Instead of giving it back, I just chugged it. (never... never... give coffee back!)

I hope your St. Patrick's day went well and you enjoyed it as you gathered with family and friends! Keep the coffee hot (...irish coffee?...) and the creamer handy!!

God bless!

Misc. Thots:

This is just a short post to let you know what's been happening lately. First of all, if you've tried to go to my podcast - you've noticed that it hasnt been updated in what seems like forever. I apologize for that. I think all the bugs are worked out now, but the funny thing was, none of the problems were of my making. I guess that's the risk you take for working with technology!

Secondly, I am attempting to translate Judges 6 out of the Septuagint. That is something new for me! I have translated 1, 2 and 3 John, part of James - but never tried anything like this before. I have a sermon coming up (March 25) from which I will preach on Judges 6. I do not know Hebrew at all - so while I have Bible software - I am translating the Septuagint.

Speaking of Hebrew, I am contemplating teaching myself this beautiful language. I have some tutorial software and a fellow staff member that can help in the teaching. It seems to be a daunting task - but I think a little at a time will make it easier. The best way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time, right?

This Sunday (March 4) I will be speaking on Numbers 32 - the title of the message: "The Pitfalls of Unfulfilled Responsibilities". I am looking forward to it, as I feel strongly about Christians fulfilling the responsibility that God lays out for them in Scripture. Too many "believers" don't act like one... and I find that hard to figure with what I read in God's Word.

Lastly, I must post about my coffee. I thought I had suspended my account with Gevalia, but only suspended it for a short while. Today I rec'd another package of java from this fine vendor. My cabinet is full of java. I have cut back my consumption quite a bit - but not enough to affect vital caffeine levels! lol. I am learning to drink decaf too - which is for what purpose? I love the taste of coffee - a strong brew especially! Tonight I am drinking some Toraja(?) decaf - an Indian coffee bean I think. It is very good and goes well with my wife's home-made apple danish for dessert!

Well, enough rambling for now. God bless & pass the creamer please....

A month is too long to wait for a new post!

Has it really been just over a month since I last posted on my blog? Yes! Sorry, but other priorities have been pressing in on me.

We continue in our study of the Old Testament as a church congregation, and I must say that I am so excited about this reading!! It seems to be 'new' again - fascinating and fun when we are all in it together.

As we have been wading and perhaps muddling through Leviticus, I find myself drawn to all the times when God commands holiness from His people. It is simply not an option - it is what is expected from an Almighty, holy God. Listen to what is commanded in Leviticus 20:7,8:

'You shall consecrate yourselves therefore and be holy, for I am the LORD your God. 8 'And you shall keep My statutes and practice them; I am the LORD who sanctifies you.

Set yourself apart...from what? From any people, any thing that would cause defilement! Similarly, we are to be seperated from any defiling substance in this world...like SIN! How are you doing in your seperation from sin? Are you conciously living life in such a way so as to eradicate sin from your life? A great challenge for all of us to work on! But holiness doesnt stop there. It also requires obedience to and practicing of all that God has commanded us. Seperation to God for service. Its not enough to consider yourself 'clean' from sin when you aren't making any efforts at all to do what God is commanding you. Yes, we are to be seperated from sin...but we are to be seperated to God for service. What are you doing right now that God is asking you to do? What are you not doing that He is asking you to do?

I pray that you will be challenged from the Word of God, whether here or in your own personal study. Feel free to share what you are studying so as to encourage me!
---------------
I am posting this with my newest computer. My old laptop just gave out and finally kicked the bucket. So, I was able to get a new laptop which is very nice, and I pray that I don't work this one too hard! I also rec'd for my birthday, an iPod. I really like it and enjoy listening to podcasts now more than ever!

John Piper is my favorite Biblical teacher so far - perhaps he is tied with James MacDonald from Walk in the Word. Both of these godly men are sold out and passionate in their pursuit of Jesus Christ. I get much from their teachings!

Who is your favorite Bible teacher? Let me know!

Until then, keep the java hot and an extra mug for me in case I drop in!

the first kiss...

Do you recall your "first kiss"? You know the first kiss with the person you absolutely loved!?!? In my reading today in Genesis 29, I came across a first kiss. It didn't seem to turn out quite as expected. You see, I always envision first kisses as romantic adventures during which time stands still and all the world seems to be right.

It didn't quite happen that way with Jacob. He has been instructed by Isaac (his father) to go find a wife - and preferrably not one from Canaan. Isaac further instructs him to go to Rebekah's brother's house (Laban) and find a wife there. So Jacob sets out. It no doubt was a taxing journey - and he undoubtedly experienced many things. He arrives at a well when Rachel - the farm girl - (well, actually scripture calls her a "shepherdess"), shows up. She was drop-dead gorgeous... well, scripture says she was "beautiful of form and face". (that means drop-dead gorgeous to me). Anyway, in verse 11 the Bible says this: "...Then Jacob kissed Rachel, and lifted up his voice and wept..." Talk about giving a girl a complex!

Why in the world did Jacob react this way to this tender moment... this "first kiss"? Perhaps he was homesick and missed mom? I could see that, I guess...but he was kissing a beautiful girl! Was he just overwhelmed by the whole thing in finding someone so beautiful, so right that he just couldn't hold it in? I don't know!

What do you think? Drop a line and let me know what you think about this strange "first kiss".

God's word is full of fascinating stories and principles that will absolutely change your life... even your love life! Get in it and search its pages!

God bless, and please pass the creamer...

Lessons from Genesis 24

Genesis 24 was where I was studying earlier today. It is a long chapter detailing the circumstances of how Isaac (Abraham's son) got his wife - Rebekah. For some it is a familiar story - for others, unknown. It is worth a second... or first... look!! It is a great narrative of how God demonstrates His faithfulness, sovereignty and guidance in His children's lives.

Long story - short version here:
Abraham is growing older - he is just now a widower. His wife Sarah has died and he has just buried her. He is concerned for his son, Isaac. He wants Isaac to have a wife from their own people, and so he employs one of his faithful servants with the task of finding a wife for him. Abraham makes the servant swear that he will find a wife from Abraham's people and not from the land from which he originally came. The servant agrees.

As the servant heads out to find a wife for Isaac, he stops at a well to water his camels. He then stops and prays, asking God to specifically identify Isaac's future wife by the way that she would respond to his asking for water. She would not only give him water, but also water the camels. With this short prayer he watches the women come to the well.

He sees Rebekah, who is very beautiful - and he runs over to her asking for a drink. She quickly gives him a drink, and then states that she will also water the camels. She then quickly empties her jar into the trough, runs and refills her jar and then proceeds to make sure the camels have enough water to drink. (I just love the emphasis in scripture on how quickly everybody is moving - its kind of interesting!)

The servant then proceeds to give her some bracelets and rings - basically asking her if she would like to be Isaac's wife - and she runs off to tell her mother these things. He then immediately bows down and worships God, praising Him for all that He has done in response to his prayer. He is invited to Laban's house (Rebekah's brother) and is invited to have dinner with the family.

Before he takes a bite he stops to testify about what has taken place and ask what they think about the prospect of Rebekah becoming Isaac's wife. This of course leads to them asking Rebekah if she wanted this, which she did, and then announcing their blessing on it.

(Okay - so it wasn't the short version! )

What are some lessons that I pulled away from this mornings study? Here they are:

1. Bathe everything in prayer & then act in faith. The servant prayed before interacting with any of the girls at the well. He was dependent on God. I need to have that kind of dependence!
2. Remember to praise God for His answers to prayer. The servant stopped and immediately gave thanks to God for His answer to specific prayer. How often do I demonstrate ungratefulness by not taking time to recognize God's answers to my prayers?
3. Testify of God's goodness & working in my life. The servant recounted the whole story - not leaving any details out - of how God brought him to this point of asking for Rebekah to go back with him to marry Isaac. The people around the table had an opportunity to rejoice in the goodness of God too! I need to proclaim the working of God in my life - so that others are encouraged by His working!

One other thing from the end of Chapter 24. It mentions Isaac going out in the fields in the evening and meditating. The spiritual discipline of meditation is a unused discipline in many Christian's life. I have been challenged lately to increase this discipline - perhaps more next time on how & what that looks like in a believer's life.

Until then, God bless (and keep the java hot!).

El Olam...

El Olam... The Everlasting God.
I came across this wonderful name of God in my reading in Genesis 21 today. In verse 33 it states: "...And Abraham planted a tamarisk tree at Beersheba, and there he called on the name of the Lord, the Everlasting God..."

God's eternality - an interesting concept which I don't quite meditate on near enough. It is very easy to get wrapped up with & consumed with our personal lives and all the little details that go with them. However, we are a tiny blip on the timeline of eternity. Our lives - the vapors - are nothing more than a brief hic-cup... a tick of a clock... a millisecond of eternity. God is eternal. Let your mind try to get around that concept.

How about this reference in Isaiah 40:28: "...Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth Does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable..." He is immutable - no changing... everlasting.

Or this out of Psalms 100:5: "...For the LORD is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting, And His faithfulness to all generations..." He is good - always has been, always will be. Faithful - forever.

I have begun writing characteristics of God in the margins of my Bible as I see them played out through Scripture. Things such as: Sovereignty, Faithfulness, Eternal, etc. I suggest you do this as well. What a wonderful picture of God that will develop before your eyes!

My how time flies! I haven't updated this blog since last year... ha ha - I wonder how many other bloggers have used that same line?!? The holiday season was an incredibly busy one for me - and then there was the sickness that came just after Christmas. I have not been that sick for many years, and am so thankful that I live in a country that has wonderful medical technology!

As part of our encouraging our church members to study God's Word this year, our church has a Read through the Bible plan which coincides with the Sunday sermons. It has been an interesting start to the new year! We are reading chronologically through Scripture, and are almost finished with the book of Job. I am amazed at Job's steadfastness, even though God is largely silent towards him much of the time.

I currently have five different studies going right now, and I never seem to have time to do any of them adequately: Chronological reading plan, youth group reading plan, Hebrews study, James study, Anthropology study and misc other things in there like: sermons and youth group lessons! Some days my head spins!

I am working on "new year's resolutions" such as: praying more in individual intercessory prayer, memorizing more scripture, drinking more water and much less pop, less snacking between meals, etc.

Have you made any resolutions? I am finding that this is not a popular thing. I love the new year and the focus it brings, but more and more people that I deal with skip the resolutions. Many feel that failure is imminent so they figure "why try?" I feel that "nothing ventured, nothing gained". May God give you the endurance and perseverance to accomplish what He needs you to do this coming year!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Christmas evening will mark 8 years after I placed my faith and trust in Jesus Christ. I am looking forward to being reminded anew and afresh of the grace of God. I am so grateful that God gave me a second chance!

Titus 3:3-7
For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another.
But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared,
He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,
whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior
that being justified by His grace we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

In preparation for a weekly Bible study, I am "way over my head" it seems as I look at this passage in Hebrews 6. We are to be studying Heb.6:4-8. I have just begun to delve into the Greek on this particular set of verses, and am asking for much, much assistance!!

(my Greek knowledge being limited - please assist)

Some interesting things from verse 4 that I will share, and perhaps you will be able to direct me to other observations.

1. All the verbals in this verse are participles, and aorist.
2. Two are passive, and all three are accusative masculine plural.
3. I have personally limited my language / syntax searches to the book of Hebrews - a good idea?

What to do with this limited start?

• The verb 'fwtizw' (sorry, I don't know how to add the Greek font) only appears twice in Hebrews: 6:4 & 10:32.
• This verb 'geuomai' appears just three times: twice in this set of verses (6:4,5) and then in 2:9 as well.

fwtizw - to enlighten, in both passages seem to indicate a conversion experience.

geuomai - to taste, in both passages seem to indicate an experiential experience.

What I am trying to determine, is to answer the all-time conflict found in this passage: is this referring to a loss of salvation, etc or something else. Since I have just begun and really left you not much to work with, I would really appreciate direction.

Having said that, I will continue to wrestle through the text myself and see what I can come up with - fully dependent of course on the Holy Spirit -Who is my Helper.

side note: today was Mocah Gevalia in the pot - strong too! Since it is a chilly day, it was a good thing to warm my mitts on a mug of this joe!

God bless,

Get Your Health Diagnosed!

I just finished reading Ten Questions to Diagnose Your Spiritual Health by Dr.Donald Whitney. It is an extremely easy read, but very challenging at the same time. I would recommend this book to just about anyone needing a 'shot in the arm' spiritually.

Here are the titles of the 10 chapters:

• Do you thirst for God?
• Are you governed increasingly by God's Word?
• Are you more loving?
• Are you more sensitive to God's presence?
• Do you have a growing concern for the spiritual and temporal needs of others?
• Do you delight in the bride of Christ?
• Are the spiritual disciplines increasingly more important to you?
• Do you still grieve over sin?
• Are you a quick forgiver?
• Do you yearn for Heaven and to be with Jesus?

Just typing those chapter headings up - again, made me re-evaluate where I am spiritually. I guarantee that if you read this book, you will be challenged in your daily walk with Jesus. I know I was.

On another note, I am going deaf. Really. I am finding that it is getting harder and harder to hear things. I find that especially in a crowded room or a room with lots of background noise that I can barely hear at all. This really drives me (and my wife) crazy.

I was just reading Hebrews 5:11 and the author of this epistle speaks to the recipients and says, "...you have become dull of hearing..." Now, that is one type of hearing loss I want to stay away from. I always want to be sensitive to the things of Christ! Here the author states that they have much to say about Christ, but the readers just can't handle it! Oh my! May it never be said about me... about you... that we are not listening to the precious things of our Lord.

Read Hebrews 5:11 - 6:3 and study these things out to see if they are true about you.

Nothing jolts you back to reality like a good challenge from God's Word.

On Caffeine, a Velvet Elvis and a Ford tranny...

Caffeine levels are up today - therefore, I will post.

A lot has happened since the last time we shared a mug o' joe together. I have seen an uncle leave this life for the next. We experienced the loss of a transmission in our 2000 Ford Windstar. My first invoice for dental improvements arrived...at the tune of $2401. I have begun, and finished perhaps 3 or 4 books. There is a light at the end of the Greek Exegesis tunnel - and it is not a train afterall.

I've just finished reading the Velvet Elvis: Repainting the Christian Faith by Rob Bell (pastor of the famed Mars Hill Bible Church located in Michigan). I must admit that I like Rob Bell's style - its fresh and personable. However, some of the things I read in his book really concerned me. I appreciate his passion for Christ-followers to be genuine and loving and unconformed to a religion. It is this passion that misdirects him into rejecting some basic tenets of following Christ; things like: the Way of salvation, the absolute authority of scripture and others. There are good things in his book as well - don't get me wrong. I greatly appreciate his 'out of the box' look at the way the 'church' is 'doing church'. We do have it wrong in some areas - and we do need to change those areas. Its just that we can't ignore the timeless truths as presented in the Bible. In the Velvet Elvis, Rob Bell has left the building of conservative Christ-following.

I spoke earlier of transmission trouble with our primary family vehicle. It just 'all of a sudden' died on the way home from church one night. It required placing a rebuilt tranny in the van - at the cost of about $1935. I just didn't have the extra lying around. This came immediately on the heels of the $2401 in dental work. (which wasn't lying around either). My wife and I have learned from long ago that God fulfills His Word as read in Matthew 6&7. We have continually seen Him provide for our necessities...and beyond. And, true to His timing, He provided miraculously again. Our church, hearing of our need, collected over $3000! God is so good. His grace has extended through His followers once again. Thank you CBC.

With the completion of the last four verses in 1 John 5, I will have translated my first book of the Bible from Greek to English. I consider this a great accomplishment - and have new found respect for any scribe of yesteryear. Thank God for my Bible software (Bibleworks 7.0) - which saves me great amounts of time in the process. And just to put your hearts at ease, I do the work first by myself - and then double check it with the software. There is no easy route to doing things correctly. I have enjoyed this semester - and it is hard to imagine not going to class on Tuesdays and Thursdays after I finish on the 14th of December. Perhaps I will continue in my translating with other books...I don't know.

Well, God bless you for reading my scattered thoughts. Post a comment and let me know what you think of what I've said. I'll be starting another pot o' joe soon, so pull up a chair, bring your favorite mug and let's examine the daily jolt.

Has it really been almost a month since my last post? Incredible. I have been very busy it seems and my blog doesn't get the priority that perhaps it should. And then again, I don't know if anyone even reads it - so - it all balances out in the end.

I have finished the book I was reading by Steve Gallagher (Intoxicated with Babylon) - this is a must read! It is so convicting - it deals with worldliness, and let me say that I have much to work on.

I am currently reading three new books:

• Confessions of a Pastor: Adventures in Dropping the Pose and Getting Real with God - (by Craig Groeschel)
• Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven, but Nobody Wants to Die: or the Eschatology of Bluegrass - (by David Crowder)
• Becoming Conversant with the Emerging Church: Understanding a Movement and its Implications - (by D.A. Carson)

On order is Rob Bell's Velvet Elvis: Repainting the Christian Faith. So, what are you reading? Care to share?

Tomorrow (Sunday, 11/19/2006) I am preaching at our church. I am speaking on Psalm 145 and the title of my message is taken from vs. 21 "My Mouth Shall Speak the Praise of the Lord". 5 main points of what we should praise God for come out of this passage (there are doubtless more that you could come up with):

1. Praise God for His Greatness
2. Praise God for His Goodness
3. Praise God for His Governing
4. Praise God for His Giving
5. Praise God for His Grace

Pretty cool aliteration, eh? Come & listen, won't you? May God challenge your heart as He did mine in reference to Gratitude.

Another miscellaneous item, and then I must go. I upgraded my phone with verizon a couple of days ago. I am now the proud owner of the Motorolla Q. Let me say that it is taking some getting used to. I am still not completely comfortable with the Bluetooth, etc - and will probably be talking again with Verizon about it. But it does combine my phone and PDA all in one - which is going to be really helpful.

There really isnt much happening - outside of today is the opening day of deer season... and I am sitting in my living room! That's okay - I should be able to get out sometime. Well, its time to refill the mug of java... Gevalia's costa rica coffee today! Here's to the daily jolt we all should experience!!

God bless,

Short Post:

I just havent had time to post lately. Really working (read 'wrestling' here) with time management. In other words, how I spend my time with God, family & job. I'm afraid I fall short in many areas - at least that is what has been pointed out to me by a number of people lately.

Two books I recommend reading:
1. 10 Questions to Diagnose Your Spiritual Health by Dr.Whitney
2. Intoxicated with Babylon by Steve Gallagher

More to post later... until then, God bless.

friday the 13th...

are you superstitious?

I find today that it is freezing outside... and inside my office! The heater was repaired at the church last week (when we had nice weather), and the thermostat wire for my office was cut. Evidently it wasn't hooked back up either! Brrrrr!!!

I just joined another website called "shelfari". Its a MySpace kind of idea, except it is a display of your library - the books you read. You interact through looking at people's shelves. You can see part of my library here: Pastor Mark's Library. Its kind of a neat idea.

Speaking of books that I am reading, I am working through Dr.Whitney's Ten Questions to Diagnose Your Spiritual Health, but decided to go back and begin again Richard Baxter's The Reformed Pastor. I think I need to re-read... and finish this time... this book.

If you can, would you pray for Mr.Pope? He is one of my former Criminal Justice instructors from Pensacola Christian College. I hear he is in failing health and not doing well at all. He helped me more than I could ever explain here in a post. My prayers go up for he and his wife during this time. God bless...

the STORM report...

Last night we had an event at our church for our teens called STORM (Sending Teens Out to Reach the Masses). The idea was to get the teens out to invite their friends to come to an event where we had some game time and then a gospel presentation - followed by walking tacos!

We were praying for 100 teens. Bad weather set in, we scrambled to rent a local facility due to our AWANA ministries occupying our own building, and we ended up with 44 kids! Praise the Lord! Of those 44 kids, 9 came to know the Lord as their personal Savior! That is so awesome!

I am very excited that our teens got to witness God moving among them. It was encouraging to me... and made me realize that all the work was worthwhile to see kids get saved. God is truly good all the time.

Our goal now is to follow up on all visitors and hopefully be able to disciple the new Christians. Would you pray that God would enable us to maintain these contacts? Thank you!

Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.

misc musings...

today finds nothing of any substance to write about. I am enjoying our new hi-speed internet, a vast improvement over the dial-up situation. (and we're saving $ by having it combined with our phone service... cant beat that!)

the last week, maybe week and a-half, have found me very busy. I dont see much end in sight - my mom is coming tomorrow to visit, and then my sis-in-law on Wednesday. We have a special event for teens happening on Wednesday... throw in a couple of Greek classes, dental appointments, counseling sessions... and my study on top of that - and you have a very busy week.

On a totally different subject: while in Indianapolis this last week, my wife and I ate at the Claddagh Pub downtown. There is a picture Ive added, we sat outdoors on the table that you see there. Click the link to see the menu. We had corned beef & cabbage rolls as an appetizer, I had the trout w/ sun-dried tomatoes and creme brulee for dessert.

Quite possibly the best coffee in a long time from a restaurant as well! I give it 4.5 stars out of 5. The inside was exquisite - dark wood everywhere and lively irish music. We really enjoyed ourselves!

Finally, the verses for our memory work in youth group are 1 Peter 1:15,16: "...but like the Holy One who called you is Holy, be holy also in all your behavior. Because it is written, Be holy for I am holy!" Incredibly simple and convicting verses!

Breaking down the barrier...

Today I read Ephesians 2:14-18 - and paused to meditate on this short passage:

NAS
Ephesians 2:14 For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one, and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall,
15 by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, which is the Law of commandments contained in ordinances, that in Himself He might make the two into one new man, thus establishing peace,
16 and might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the enmity.
17 And He came and preached peace to you who were far away, and peace to those who were near; 18 for through Him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father.

At the cross of Christ an amazing thing happened: the barrier was broken down. What barrier is this a reference to? If you go back to vv.11ff you notice that there was a clear distinction being made of the Gentiles and the Jews. In v.14 Christ is referenced as having made both groups into one. The joining of the Gentiles and the Jews through the work on His cross.

This was radical thinking & we have lost what a jolt this must have been in Jewish society. Society was centered around the Temple in Jerusalem. It was the center of worship. Even if you lived elsewhere in Israel, and visited your synagogue regularly, you knew of the significance of the Temple. You would travel there to observe various religious activities. However, if you were Gentile, you were limited in what you could do at the Temple proper.

Read what Edersheim wrote in his book, The Temple: Its Ministry and Services - (pp.22,23):

"Court of Gentiles:
It was the rule when entering the Temple to pass in by the right, and when leaving it to go out by the left hand. The great Court of the Gentiles, which formed the lowest or outer enclosure of the Sanctuary, was paved with the finest variegated marble. According to Jewish tradition, it formed a square of 750 feet. Its name is derived from the fact that it was open to all - Jews or Gentiles - provided they observed the prescribed rules of decorum and reverence. In this court tradition places eating and sleeping apartments for the Levites, and a synagogue. But, despite pharisaic punctiliousness, the noise, especially on the eve of the Passover, must have been most disturbing. For there the oxen, sheep and doves selected as fit for sacrifices were sold as in a market; and here were those tables of the money-changers which the Lord overthrew when He drove from His Father's house them that bought and sold (Matt.21:12; John 2:14). Within a short distance, in the court, a marble screen 4 1/2 feet high, and beautifully ornamented, bore Greek and Latin inscriptions, warning Gentiles not to proceed, on pain of death."

Gentiles were not allowed the priviledge of close worship as the Jews. This all changed when Jesus died on the cross. Surely He rent the veil separating us from the Holiest of Holies, but He also made it possible for Gentiles to gain access to the Father (v.18).

Not only access, but peace as well. Peace between Gentiles and Jews - between all men and the Law - between all men and God. Every day it seems that I learn more about the precious sacrifice that Christ made on my behalf.

Will you join me today in thanksgiving because of the work of Jesus Christ on the cross?

Thirsting after God...

Here is a quote from a book I started last night:

Knowing Christ well is so spiritually thirst quenching because no person, possession, or experience can produce the spiritual pleasure we can find in Him. Communion with Christ is incomparably satisfying because there is no disappointment in what you find in Him. Moreover, the spiritual gratification you find in Him initially is never ending. On top of these, the Lord in whom this satisfaction is found is an infinite universe of satisfaction in which one may immerse himself to explore and enjoy without limitation. So there is no lack of satisfaction in knowing Christ, but neither has God designed us so that one experience with Christ satiates all future desire for Him.

Taken from Ten Questions to Diagnose Your Spiritual Health by Donald S. Whitney. (pp.22)

I just thought that was an incredible quote. Why do we decieve ourselves into believing that the things of this world will satisfy us? I am sure that this is what Paul referred to as the lusts of deceit. Infinite satisfaction. Do you have that? Do I? I must say that I have been challenged over these past few days to delve deeper into my relationship with Jesus Christ. I cannot - neither can you - live on one experience with Him. It must be a continual, repetitive process of drinking long at the fountain of Living Water.

My prayer is that today you may discover anew this thirst quenching / thirst developing relationship with Christ.