the woodpile

The luck of the draw?

2008-09-09T07:24:00.001-07:00

How many times have you and I heard the statement, "I was so lucky:, or "I was in the right place at the right time", or "it was just the luck of the draw". Sounds like everything is just by chance. Well let me ask this question, "what about the hand of God or the leading of God?" I think God is concerned about the details of life, especially when it comes to issues of the heart that we deal with. The real Jesus is concerned about you and me.

We read in Luke 1:8-11, that Zechariah's division, his team of priests were on duty this particular day. Zechariah was also chosen that day by lot to go into the temple to burn the incense. At the very same time the worshipers were outside praying. So lets break this down to see if this was mere coincidence or part of God's plan.

As we saw earlier Elizabeth and Zechariah, this devoted couple were waiting on God for a miracle. Probably many of their friends had told them, "it is never going to happen. You are never going to have a child. You are too old, Give up!!!" Yet they continued to follow God, Why? Because God is worthy of our trust!!!

So this is a new day. What could possibly happen this day? It wasn't the first day that Zechariah had gone into the temple. Yet God had something special planned. Was it by chance that his division was on duty? Was it by chance that Zechariah was chosen that day to go inside? And what about those worshipers and prayers? What role did they play in the encounter that Zechariah was about to have?

I do not believe that Zechariah went into the temple that day expecting what happened. I do not believe that the people outside knew what was going to happen. I do not believe that Zechariah was chosen that day by accident. I believe God had a great plan. God had Zechariah in a place where it was just Him and Zechariah. God had Zechariah in a place where He could speak to him without anyone shouting. I believe God moved in response to the worship and prayer of the people. While they were praying, God was speaking. While they were worshiping God was moving.

Zechariah could have said, "you know what God, I am so tired of unanswered prayers. I am so tired of the routine and doing all these things for you. I quit. I am not going to keep praying and worshiping and sacrificing. Find somebody else." But he didn't and we know that their prayer was answered.

So, if you are ready to give up, pack it in and walk away. Don't!!! If you think that you need a little more luck and things will be ok, think again. We don't need more luck, we need more of God!!!

Sold my soul

2008-09-05T08:20:00.000-07:00

I am reading a very interesting book,"I Sold My Soul On Ebay", it is written by an atheist gentleman, Hemant Mehta who put himself up for auction on ebay. The winning bidder could then have the opportunity to have Hemant attend church for one hour/$10 bid in the auction. In other words if the top bidder won for $500, Hemant would then have to attend churches of the winners choice for 50 hours.

Hemant spent his hours visiting evangelical churches and then shared how he viewed what was happening in many churches from his experience. It is a fascinating book. It is not an assault on Christianity, it makes us think of how we do church and how we reach out to those who do not share the same belief system as us.

Hemant makes a comment in the book that I have been thinking about. He is sitting in a service listening to a pastor talk about Thomas. The pastor talks about Thomas demanding proof from Jesus that he was alive. Jesus then shows Thomas the proof when He meets Thomas the next week. Now here is what Hemant says: "I had the impression that people looked down on Thomas for doubting Jesus. And yet, here he was asking for the same thing I was looking for:evidence. Thomas saw his evidence standing right in front of him. I kept thinking IF JESUS DID THAT TO ME NOW, I'M SURE I'D CHANGE MY MIND TOO."

People are looking for evidence. I am looking for evidence in things too. I was taught in school that Columbus sailed the Ocean Blue in 1492, or something like that. But how do they know it happened. Were my teachers there? It didn't look like any of my teachers were almost 500 years old. Yet there are documents that show this actually happened.

Go with me to Luke 1:1-4. Luke the good doctor writes an account for us in a letter sent to another man Theophilus. Luke says, "I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you." I choose to trust the word of someone who really investigated all the things about Jesus and His ministry. I choose to believe that a doctor, a trusted professional who only wants to share truth would not lie. I believe that the real Jesus is knowable.

So for me it is simple. Just like I choose to trust that Columbus did sail to North America in 1492, I choose to believe that the real Jesus will be revealed to me through the writings of the Word of God and specifically through the words penned in Luke.

I hope that together we can dig deeper into the Word of God and begin to know on a deeper level, "The Real Jesus"

Jesus on the radio

2008-09-04T11:01:00.000-07:00

I enjoy listening to the radio. Especially when I am driving in my car. My preference is to listen to talk radio and listen to what other people have to say about certain topics. Today one of the topics discussed was ... "how long should a drunk driver who kills someone while driving impaired go to jail for?" There were certainly many opinions expressed, though I never called in to express my opinion.

I certainly do have opinions about things, many things. But what are my opinions based on? Opinions typically are based on personal experience.

My opinion of Jesus is based on a few things but two specifically. One is my experience and two is His Word. The amazing part is His Word and my experience are linked because of Jesus.

But what if I never had met and spent time with this real Jesus. My opinion of Him would only be based on my experience or listening to the experiences of others. I know that the late night talk shows take shots at Jesus and Christianity whenever they can. They along with many others mock Jesus because they do not know Him. They would think differently if they knew Jesus and not just about Him.

If you look with me to Luke 1:5-7 we read about Zechariah and Elizabeth. They were two devout people who followed the commands of God. They were righteous in God's eyes. They were not perfect but God saw them as righteous. God sees us differently than we see ourselves. God looks to our hearts and knows what is in our heart.

He knew the heart of this couple and that Zechariah and Elizabeth were old and that she was unable to have children. I am sure many days went by, many years went by with unanswered prayer. God knew that!!! I am sure God heard the many nights when Elizabeth cried her self to sleep. God heard!!! Their experience could have told them to give up and stop praying, but they also linked their lives with His Word.

We need to remember this. When we have prayer that seems to go unanswered, do not give up!!!!

It would be easier to listen to the popular opinion or the tabloids or the loud voices who say "There is no God", or mock Him, especially when our experience has been difficult.

But there is a God, a real God who does care. He does forgive. He does love.

Which voice are we listening to? God's voice, or popular opinion????

The real Jesus

2008-09-03T05:41:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been doing a lot of thinking. I know that can be a good thing or a bad thing if we are focusing on positive or negative things. But this time it is good!!!

I hear many people, whether it be on television or the radio, listening to peoples conversations, or reading books that talk about this person, Jesus. I often have to shake me head in amazement and wonder, are you talking about the same Jesus that I know? Because many times it sure doesn't seem like they are.

Recently on a local radio station a "pastor/minister", I use that term loosely here, was asked the question: Who is Jesus? Seemed like a fair question to ask a person in ministry, but her response sent a cold chill through me. Her response was this: Jesus is not who we make him out to be. He was not some supernatural healer, he was not some great miracle worker. He was just a peasant boy who people made up great stories about and tried to make him into some person he is not. He is not anyone special, only what people have made him out to be.

I may not have the quote word for word but that was certainly the message she was sharing. My thought was how can you be a person who shepherds people and not tell them the truth about who Jesus is? I was greatly offended by her rhetoric.

A wonderful song is being played on the airways these days by an amazingly talented and God focused group called "Downhere". They have a song called "The Real Jesus". As I have listened to the words over and over it inspires me to really search out and share with others who "the real Jesus" is. So if you would like to join me as I pen this study over the next few weeks, please do.

I will be doing a study based on the book of Luke found in God's Word and interweaving the truth and questions generated by the Downhere song. I would love to have your feedback as well.

I know the real Jesus. He is my strength, He is my joy, He is my peace, He is my healer. He is my Lord and Savior!!!

Here is a link to the song and you can find it on youtube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EwPcL1AXxE

Wedding Day

2008-07-11T17:55:00.000-07:00

The flower girl, Taylor...notice the duck on her shoulder

The church

Tryon River across from the church

The guys, my son is the stretching tired looking one.

I guess I am getting old. Tomorrow will be the day when my son, Ryne, gets married. He is marrying a great girl named Emily, in P.E.I.

It is wonderful to have God answer our prayers. For a number of years we have been praying for our children that they would find Christian mates. So, thank you Lord for the blessing of a Christian daughter in law.

I thought I would share a few pics from the rehearsal time and of the church in scenic Tryon, PEI.

A clear message preached

2008-07-06T18:26:00.000-07:00

This morning in church I had an opportunity to hear an amazing message from our 90 year old pastor of emeritus. In other words a retired preacher who speaks from time to time.

His message was simple: there are three guarantees in life. One, we are all going to die unless Christ comes back first. Two, we are all going to face a judgment based on what we did with Jesus Christ. Three, Christ is coming back and we need to be in a place of proper relationship with Christ if we are to spend eternity with Him.

It was so straight forward and he pulled no punches. His words were true: it doesn't matter how much you have done, if you sing in the choir, if you have been a member for years, if you give all your money. What matters is that you have asked Christ to forgive you for your sin. Isn't that the simplicity of God's Word.

He also stated that this message is not often heard, but one that needs to be spoken. I am so glad to hear this man of God preach an incredibly strong message of the Truth. Truth is what sets us free. No one who was in the service this morning could ever say they never knew the Truth.

What a blessing to hear the Word of God preached with boldness!!!

Video of a disaster community

2008-07-05T09:33:00.000-07:00

Outside the newly reopened "Flying Wienie"

Inside the "Flying Wienie"

This short video clip will hopefully give you a glimpse into what a community looks like after it has been hit with a flood, or hurricane for instance.

I hope it helps to paint a picture of reality on the ground. What you don't get from this video are the smells and the sounds of disaster. I can tell you there is a unique and distinct smell. It is the smell of rot and decay.

It is still a very safe place to be. You just have to pay attention to your surroundings. Typically in a disaster, we as relief workers drive in and drive out of the disaster area each day.

It is great to see places get back up and running quickly in a disaster. One of the fun places in Cedar Rapids is "The Flying Wienie", a Chicago Hot Dog Restaurant with lots of local favorites to eat. The restaurant was closed for ten days from the flooding, but once it reopened it brought a little bit of life back to Cedar Rapids. It is so important to get businesses up and running as it provides people the opportunity to get back to work and provide for their families.

I hope this blog entry helps you understand more of why disaster relief is so, so important to do.

Physical toll in a disaster

2008-07-03T17:03:00.000-07:00

I have shared my thoughts about disasters and now I want to focus on the physical toll it takes. This may be more than meets the eye, so these are just a few thoughts.

One area where it affects people is in their eating patterns. For some people they cant eat. For others they cant stop eating. It also affects their sleeping patterns as many people lay awake at night, unable to sleep because they are rehashing over and over in their minds what they could have done differently. They may also be thinking about all that they have lost or what it might take to rebuild.

Another physical challenge is in getting all of your furniture and carpets and belongings and clothing and... out to the curb so some truck can come by and take all you own away. Just to be able to carry all of your water soaked belongings outdoors, up and down flights of stairs, is alot to expect. Your neighbours can't really help you because they are going through the same problems.

Then the homeowner needs to strip out all of the sheetrock up to at least 2 feet above the water line. Once all the sheetrock and insulation is removed, then it is time to remove all the nails and screws and electrical boxes so that the studs are exposed. Once that is finished then it is time to spray all of the walls and floors in order to kill all the mold. Imagine how exhausting all of this must be for so many, especially for seniors and those who are faced with physical challenges.

On top of all this the homeowner must go from place to place to determine what they can or cannot do with their homes, meet with insurance agents, meet with engineers and others who determine whether or not you can rebuild. As you can tell this is overwhelming.

Many people need our help. The Good Samaritan story in the Bible tells us to get involved and make a difference. Will it cost us something? Yes!!! Is it worth it? Yes!!! Can you go? I do not know. Can you give? Yes you can!!!

Back home from the road trip

2008-07-01T19:23:00.000-07:00

I am going to take a few moments to thank God for safety in traveling, his providence in our set up and his provision for the needs of those so desperate for help along the banks of the Mississippi.

I must say yesterday was a long and painful day, as most days can be when the travel is lengthy. There were many times I asked the Lord for His strength and healing to get me through the day. When I finally got in my hotel room last night, I could hardly move. It was so good to rest.

Sometimes in our spiritual life we can get that way too. We can get weary and we need His touch. Then we just need to rest in Him.

So to that end I am going to bed to get some rest. Tomorrow I will share another of my thoughts on disaster.

Emotional toll of a disaster

2008-06-30T07:39:00.000-07:00

Sam, a homeowner in Cedar Rapids shared these words, "one minute I am sad, the next minute I am angry, the next minute I have hope, the next minute I can't think. I can't sleep at night and I have no energy. I just want to cry, but people tell me to suck it up and stop being so sad."

I have heard these thoughts expressed in different ways over and over. This is a crisis situation in the lives of people. It is so important just to let people talk. It is important to let people know that many of their emotions are normal. It is amazing to see the look on their face when they are reassured that they are not going crazy.

For some people they have the ability and strength to recover. For the sick and the elderly it is a much greater challenge. Can you imagine walking in to your home to find everything destroyed and then have to take load after load of all your possessions and add them to the pile of debris lined up along your street as far as you can see. Every time the homeowner takes another load to the curb another part of their life is thrown away.

As Christians in a disaster one of the greatest things we can do is listen. Go to these areas and ask questions and let people talk. Pray for people, it is a wonderful privilege and opportunity during a time like this.

We had the opportunity to pray for Sam on Thursday. When we met Sam again on Saturday she said, "I know God sent you to me. When you prayed for me on Thursday, I had tingles all over my body. God showed me that he cared."

Thanks God for His touch!!! He is the Healer!!!

What is a disaster?

2008-06-29T20:30:00.001-07:00

A typical home in a disaster!!!

Over the next few days I am going to try and share a few things that make a disaster area. I am going to share some pictures to help people understand what makes a disaster area so difficult to live in and what people who live in these areas face on a daily basis.

My first real exposure to disaster and disaster relief was hurricane Katrina. I had been in challenging places and seen burned down houses, and water soaked houses and over flooded rivers that caused challenges but words cant describe what I saw there. Trees through the middle of houses, houses in the middle of streets, cars flipped upside down, and chaos as far as the eye could see.

I think one of the things that define a disaster relief area is the widespread destruction. It is not just a couple of houses on a block, or a house that gets flattened by a tree, but it is devastation that goes on for miles. Everyone for miles is effected. Everyone!!! No one is exempt. If you live in that area, you have a problem.

Here in Cedar Rapids, the problem was widespread flooding. Over 1300 city blocks were under water. Every house on every street had up to 15 feet of water in it. Every single thing a person owns is lost. Everything!!! No exceptions.

Your neighbour cant come to help you rebuild, or strip out your home, or carry debris to the curb either. Why? Because they have the very same problem. That is why people need help from those out side the disaster area.

I hope this helps to paint a bit of a picture of what a disaster is like. Stay tuned tomorrow as I expand on some other characteristics of a disaster. Maybe these pictures will help you to understand what every house looks like, and why there is such a need for assistance.

Buying a duck named Sparky

2008-06-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

Another damaged home in Cedar Rapids, over 4,000 homes were flooded

When we met Sam and she shared her story of loss, she also shared her hope for the future. One of the things she desired was to move away from the river and up to a place of higher ground. If she could do that she would like to live in the country and have a horse and a duck pond. In the duckpond she wanted to have a duck and name him Sparky.

So I had a thought. Why not go and buy her a duck. Not a real duck, that might be hard to find. But a plastic duck that could be something to remind her of us and what she shared with us. Maybe a funny reminder of hope. The duck was purchased and will be delivered today.

Sometimes in ministry we need to be creative. I must confess I have never done duck ministry before but I am looking forward to giving "Sparky" to Sam. I hope it brings some levity to her and shows her that we care and God does as well.

We are going to help Sam by taking lots of pictures for her so she can prove her damage to her insurance company and FEMA if necessary. We are also going to help her sort through some of her belongings to see if we might be able to salvage a few things of importance.

It may seem like small things to do, maybe insignificant but I believe it can make a difference.

Do you know anybody that needs a "duck"? Maybe you can make a difference in their life too.

God's Providential leading

2008-06-27T06:42:00.000-07:00

I love it when the Hand of God leads us to where He desires for us to be. Today was another one of those spectacular days to see God at work. Actually the story starts back about 7 weeks before.

A very bad flood came to my hometown of Fredericton, NB. When the flood came an organization came to offer flood relief, the SP team. Along with SP team came another group called the Rapid Response Team, who serve as chaplains in crisis situations. I had the privilege of being able to work with both and also to be accepted as a chaplain with the RR Team.

Now I find myself in the midwest, doing disaster relief set up. After making a phone call I found out that the SP team is set up here also just an hour from where we are staying. The RR Team is also on their way here next week too. So I now have instant rapport with them in order to partner with them.

Yesterday we spent the day in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The devastation is immense. It brought back memories for me of the Gulf Coast and Katrina. It is not near as bad, but make no mistake it is terrible. The streets are lined with debris and the smell of devastation is in the air.

House is laying upside down on the road with the Cedar river behind it.

We drove down one street close to the river and for some reason(I would say God's leading) we moved off that street to one that was a block further away from the river as we drove down this street we saw even more tragedy.

In front of one of the houses was an older lady, working through the debris left in front of her home. We stopped and talked with Sam. Sam is suffering from the crisis. As we were sharing with Sam she said this, "Today I was feeling all alone and I asked God to send me someone to help me and talk to me today." Well here we were lead by God to talk to Sam and talk and pray with her. God is good!!!

Sam is in the middle, as we shared with her.

Incredible week of ministry

2007-07-20T06:21:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to send you a ministry update from our week with the team from North Carolina. To sum up the past week in one word is impossible but I will use the word incredible.
I saw the Lord do some incredible things in the lives of the team that came as well as the native children that attended VBS.

Our first day started out slow with only 12 kids attending. That was pretty low for a group of 26 if it was a normal VBS. But with native kids it was all they could handle. I had prepped the team the night before for what they might have to endure on Day 1, including that they could expect to be punched, kicked, bit, called names, not listened to and sworn at. I also told them the kids would want to be one person’s friend and would become jealous if that were not the case. I challenged them to love the kids unconditionally, and told them that after the first day things would change if they would just love the kids, as it was a test to see if they would love them after seeing their very worst.

Day 2 came - what a change! We also had 17 kids. The kids were kind, respectful,caring and became friends with the North Carolinans. We had one of the older kids at VBS give her heart to Christ that morning. It was very genuine as the tears streamed down her face as she accepted Christ into her life. Also that morning a teen from the reserve I have been working at gave her heart to Christ. I had invited her and her sister to VBS so that they could hear the gospel from a foundational perspective. I wanted them to hear the basics again. That morning Shania accepted Christ into her life. There were no tears involved this time. Shania shared that she had been unable to cry for a long time. She began to share some of her deep hurts that prevented her from crying. We told her we would pray that before the week was over the tears would come.

One of the toughest kids that came to VBS was Izzy. Izzy is 12 and comes from a very tough family situation. She does not let people get close to her. Izzy was our biggest trouble maker on day 1. She refused to listen and tried to intimidate some of the other kids. On day 2 we saw Izzy begin to have a softened heart. She really connected with a girl named Holly from North Carolina. Izzy listened the second day which was incredible in itself.

Day 3 of VBS saw our numbers go up to 28 kids. One of the older boys gave his heart to Christ. He was the brother of the girl that gave her heart to Christ the day before. He had really connected with a girl named Lauren from the group. She had the privilege of leading Devin to Christ.

The afternoon of day 3 was incredible as well. One of the leaders, Anne, of the NC team had been spending quality time with Shania and her sister Mariah. She told Shania and Mariah how beautiful the girls were and how much she loved them and God loved them. Then the miracle happened as the tears began to flow down Shania’s cheeks. Anne came and got me and there standing before me was a young lady whom the Lord had set free. She said she couldn't believe that God would allow her to cry. Powerful.

Day 4 came and this was our last day of VBS. This day we had 35 kids. God was continuing to move. He was especially speaking to Izzy, and halfway through the morning Izzy asked Holly to get pastor Jim. They came and got me as well. Izzy wanted to pray and accept Christ into her life.
In the sanctuary of our church with Jim, Holly, her best friend Kala and myself gathered around her, Izzy gave her life to Christ. It was beautiful.

We then drove all of the kids back to the reserve in the bus, along with many from NC. There were very few dry eyes on the bus. One of the most powerful images I have is of Izzy, with her head pressed into Holly's shoulder and both of them weeping and embracing each other. Izzy told Holly that she had never felt loved before this week. Incredible. This team truly loved the kids they met in a way I have rarely seen before. They went out and bought new shoes for every kid that attended VBS. They went the extra mile for so many of the children. They were broken for the things they saw: abuse, poverty,lack of food, and lack of love – things these kids experience everyday.

I know we shouldn't compare ministry weeksbut I believe that this was the most impacting week of ministry I have been a part of with COI for a very long time. Incredible!!!!”

Update from camp

2007-07-06T05:51:00.000-07:00

Well First Nations youth camp has come to a close and what a week it was. There were 30 teenagers at camp and it was such a blessing to get to know many of them and be reminded of the many challenges they face on a daily basis.
I had the privilege of being the speaker for the evening chapel services. The first night I spoke on risk from the story of Zaccheaus. The second night I spoke on the parable of the prodigal son with a focus on the heart of the father. The third night I spoke on the making of a mighty warrior and the story of Gideon from Judges 6. The final night I spoke on the battle being won by God through His servant Gideon.
One of the most special things for me personally was the new vision God gave me for the First Nation communities. I met teens from a number of new reserves and heard from them. I was moved in my spirit to get more involved in making a difference. I also got to spend some quality time with the new director of the camp and we have many of the same passions and views of ministry.
Lord willing in September Kevin, the new director, and I will be visiting all of the reserves that came to camp and planning some youth events for these teens. We also hope to be able to have a native youth rally to bring these teens and their friends back together again.
There is so much more I could say about this week but I wont take the time here. God was with us, we saw God move in the lives of many teens and wonderful new relationships were built. It was one of the most rewarding weeks I have had in ministry.
This coming week I have a mission team in from North Carolina. Their main focus is on doing a VBS program for children from two of our local reserves. There are still some logistics to finalize and I would appreciate your prayers.

Quick update

2007-07-02T05:12:00.000-07:00

Let me say first I really am going to get back to my teaching on Gideon. It has been put on the back burner as it seems life has been very busy lately. Good but busy!!!

An update on my pain. The trigger point therapy proved unsuccessful this time around. After five weeks of therapy my therapist told me that he was unable to help me as I should have seen tangible results by that point. I continue to be in much pain and I am unsure where to go next for help. It is very frustrating!!!

Ministry wise the youth group I lead has been going very well. Four teens have made a decision to invite Christ into their lives over the last few weeks. Our numbers continue to increase and we are begining to go deeper with God. It is such a blessing to serve Christ in this manner.

Today I am off to native teen camp. I am one of two speakers. I consider this to be a great opportunity to build relationships with a number of new native teens in the province and in the bordering provinces. I speak each night this week Monday thru Thursday at 7:00 ATL. time, so if you think to pray for me then I would appreciate that. Four of the teens from a local reserve are traveling with me to camp so I hope to be able to get to know them better as well.

Next week I have a mission team in from North Carolina. We are focusing on our local reserves as well and doing a VBS for the children. Pray that the final logistics can be worked out.

Thanks for praying and caring.

Prayer that made a difference

2007-06-20T18:10:00.000-07:00

I shared with you last week about a teen that I am working with that got hit in the eye with a rock and had to have immediate surgery. Well I have good news to report.

Yesterday her family drove to Halifax and had a meeting with the surgeon and he has seen very positive changes already. Kaitlyn is now able to return to much of her normal activities even less than two weeks since she was hit in the eye. The doctor originally said she would need to remain inactive for six to eight weeks and he was unsure what the outcome would be.

The prognosis is good for her recovery and she and her family are blessed and readily admit that see they have seen the hand of God touch their daughters life. So thank you for joining me in heartfelt prayer to the Father on her behalf.

I will be back to Gideon and his story tomorrow. Thanks for being warriors that have stood with me and this family.

Amazing talent

2007-06-15T18:10:00.000-07:00

Today I had the privilege of listening to a young lady play piano and sing. Her voice was incredibly powerful and her piano playing was equally moving. She sang a worship song about trusing in God though she has never seen Him. She talked briefly about the worship song that was written out of incredible tragedy. She never wrote it yet she could identify with it.

You see the young lady that sang the song is named Becca. Becca is blind. She played the piano as if she could see it so clearly. She shared a bit of her story with me of how she has just finished her degree from Bible college and is looking for a job. She is happy to do office work or whatever else she can find. She is an inspiration.

I want you to realize like I was reminded today that God has given us each gifts. We can choose to make excuses not to use them or we can choose to use them and give glory to Him!!!

Who did this? Gideon!!!

2007-06-14T06:29:00.000-07:00

Gideon takes a step of faith and tears down the Asherah poles and the altar and of course when the Midianites see it they are ticked off, probably an understatement. Have you ever done something for God that has really made someone mad. Well sometimes what we do is offensive to somebody. The reality is when we serve God and do what He asks us to do, people might not appreciate or accept what you do. Just be sure you have heard from God.

One thing I think is sad are the kind of things people get upset about. People get upset about the strangest things: moving the pulpit, a different style of music, the color of the carpet, not feeling like they are heard , you know the important stuff. Lets be serious!!!

Well this change really made an impact. They wanted to kill Gideon when they found out he was involved. It says they carefully investigated and they were told, "Gideon did it." Little did they know it was Gideon who did it but it was God's plan. They thought they could intimidate and destroy Gideon but now Gideon had God going before him. I don't like their chances.

They tell Joash, who is Gideons father,"Bring out your son. He must die." BUT Joash had a response as well. He basically says in v.31, "If Baal is all we say he is, he doesn't need someone to fight his battles, he should be able to fight them himself."

It looks like the battle lines are being drawn. Gideon and His God vs. the god of Baal.

You and I may be facing a battle in our lives as well. The good news and the truth is that God is more powerful than any army lined up against you. God and you can defeat the enemy in your life. God and you are a strong force. God and you can.......

Its all fun and games

2007-06-13T17:48:00.000-07:00

You know the old adage, "Its all fun and games until someone loses an eye." Well that has become more true than I had hoped.

One of the teens I work with was recently struck in the eye with a rock. She had to have immediate surgery on her eye and the answer to whether or not she will regain her sight is unknown. It will be another six to eight weeks before the doctor will know the prognosis.

As a 12 year old going to school last week, she had no idea her life would change so drastically. She is not allowed to do any physical activity for the next six to eight weeks and she is already feeling the effects of not being able to do what her friends are doing.

To help her family out and help them cover the costs of trips back and forth to the hospital where the specialist is we are doing a fundraiser. This Saturday myself and some of the other teens from our youth group are going to do a walk of close to 10 miles. We will be walking from Kates house to the church. I must say physically I am not sure how I am going to do this, but I am asking the Lord for strength.

Please pray for Kate and her family. Pray for us this Saturday as we all sacrifice a little bit to make things easier for this wonderful family. My goal is to raise a minimum of $500 to give to this family.

We are praying that out of this senseless accident that God would do something special.

Making Gideon into the mighty warrior...laying a foundation

2007-06-08T11:11:00.000-07:00

The Lord has begun the transformation from a fearful man in hiding into a bold mighty warrior. The Lord speaks to Gideon and reminds him in v.23 "Peace, Do not be afraid. You are not going to die." That was wonderful truth Gideon could lay down in his foundation.

That night the Lord continues to build the mighty warrior. v.25-26 The Lord speaks to Gideon and says, take a specific bull from your fathers herd, tear down your fathers altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah poll beside it. All of these things had become gods for the people. So the first assignment Gideon was given was to tear down. Tear down!!! He was going to start right in his own family. Gideon was having a struggle right in his family all this time. Now God was getting personal.

Then he was told to build a proper altar to God using the wood from the Asherah pole. God was going to take what was being used improperly and begin to give it a purpose. Then he was going to take that same bull and offer it as a sacrifice. You see God was giving Gideon specific instructions on how he was to do things. If Gideon was going to try and change things in his own family without knowing how and what to do he would be in big trouble. With God leading he knew he was on the right course.

We know Gideon was bold right. Not yet!!! In v.27 we read that Gideon took some others with him and that he did it at night because he was afraid of his family. I believe that God does things in the right way and the right time to build us into the people He wants us to be. It is a process. You and I are being groomed today for what we are to do today and for what He has for us in the future. He is adding more bricks into our foundation.

I hope you can sense the way this servant of God is being empowered. Little by little the mighty warrior is becoming a reality. He is no longer the weakest of the weak. Understand that God wants to do the same thing in our lives. He wants to take us from where we are and how we feel about ourselves and make us into the person He has created you and I to be. Allow Him to do the work in you!!!

I need a sign

2007-06-08T10:38:00.000-07:00

Gideon begins to understand that their is a stirring with in him. He is beginning to sense that God wants to do a new thing. God is going to deliver his people and He has told Gideon, he was the man.

Yet Gideon being the human he is wants a sign from God. In v. 17 Gideon says that he wants to know this is indeed God speaking to him. I can understand that. Whenever I am sensing God leading me in my life, I really want to know it is God speaking and not just some thought I have convinced myself is a good idea. Good things are nice, BUT God things are awesome. I have been guilty of doing good things that have not necessarily been God things. Gideon, I can identify with you!!!

Gideon tells God don't leave me now. Let me go and prepare an offering and set it before you. The Lord said in v.18, "I will wait until you return." How many times has the Lord waited for you and I. Has the Lord ever given you an assignment or laid something on your heart and you have made God wait. Again human nature seems to often say to God,"I need a sign from you God. Ok, now I know what to do!!! God can you wait? I need to be sure I heard from you."

Off Gideon goes v.19-21 and prepares an offering to God of goat meat, broth and bread and brings them out under the tree to offer to God. The angel of the Lord speaks to Gideon and tells him to put it all on a rock. Gideon did it. The angel then takes a rod and touches the offering with the tip of the staff and instantly the offering is consumed by fire. Then the angel disappeared.

Well, he wanted a sign. He got one!!! Man the decisions of life would be so much easier if we got a sign like that. Most often we don't. Maybe if we got a sign like that, we would be too overwhelmed. Maybe there are people who do see signs like this. Either way Gideon understood he had been in the presence of God. His response is very telling in v.22 when Gideon exclaims, "I have seen the angel of the Lord face to face."

I have never seen the face of God face to face. I do know this. It is an amazing experience to be in the presence of the Lord. There is nothing more powerful in life than to be in the presence of God. I have had those times where I have indeed been speechless and all I could do is weep. I want to encourage you to spend some quality time in the presence of the Lord today.

Gideon...The Mighty Warrior?

2007-06-08T06:51:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had someone say something about you and you thought "are you serious, I don't think you really know me." I had that happen recently when I was asked to lead worship at a service. Can you imagine me leading worship. My wife for sure, me... well if you have ever stood by me in a worship service you know that I am not a worship leader. Don't get me wrong, I love to worship God but not as the leader.

As we saw yesterday the angel of the Lord came and told Gideon he was a "mighty warrior". Gideon certainly did not see himself like that. In fact Gideon says to the Lord in v.15, "How can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Israel and I am the least in my family?" Does this sound to you like he feels like a mighty warrior? If you looked at him and listened to him would you want to go into battle with him? I don't think Gideon was ready to lead people into battle, BUT with God leading the way, the impossible can become possible.

Gideon tells the Lord what he thinks about himself. Gideon is seeing things from his own perspective. God is about to give Gideon a new perspective. You know sometimes we need a new perspective on the challenges we face. So here is the new perspective.

In v. 16, the Lord says, "I will be with you and you will strike down all the Midianites together." Now that is awesome. God is with us and will be with us, and you and I can do so much more when we understand God is with us.

Last night I was sharing at our home group on this scripture. I challenged one of the men there to get a new perspective. It seems that he often feels like Gideon, overwhelmed, defeated and worn out. I asked him if he felt like a mighty warrior. Not really was his response. I encouraged him to allow God the proper place in his life, to really get to know him and invest time in building a deeper relationship with him.

I wonder how many times God has a specific task he desires for us to do and yet we have all the excuses why we can't do them. Remember if we try to do it alone based on our natural abilities we will fall short. BUT if you do it in partnership with Him, you can do the impossible.

God is with us? Seriously?

2007-06-07T05:22:00.000-07:00

Corporately the people of Israel did not listen to God.There was good news though. There was a remnant of people who still understood that following God was crucial to having any kind of real life, free from oppresion and hopelessness.

God sends an angel in response to the prayers of His people. The angel of the Lord is sent with a purpose. To meet with the man, Gideon. So what was happening in the life of Gideon when the angel appeared to him. He was hiding from the Midianites, threshing wheat so the Midianites wouldn't sweep in and steal that from them too.

My guess is that Gideon was tired of having to live in this type of situation. I think he was probably praying to God often for his deliverance. Little did he know that he would be the one to deliver Gods people from their oppresion. In fact God viewed him much different than he viewed himself.

When the angel talks to Gideon in v. 12 the angel says" The Lord is with, you mighty warrior." Gideons response is very telling. He certainly does not agree with the assessment being made of him or the sitution of his people. He starts by using the word BUT. But if the Lord is with us, what in the world is going on all around us.

You know in life there are things that happen all around us and we wonder where is God. In Christian circles we hear those words often, "God is with you". We look around and say,"OK, BUT". Well the truth is God is with us. He is with us more than we know. It may not feel like it but it is something we can count on. As we will see God is indeed with Gideon and has never left him or his people.

Gideon continues his reply, and I will summarize. You can read it yourself in v. 13, he basically says, "we have heard about his miracles but I haven't seen them lately. In fact if anything the Lord has left us to ourselves abandoned and alone. We have to fight the Midianites ourselves, so where is the Lord in this situation?" Now maybe thats a rough translation but I hope we can catch the point. Gideon is frustrated, disillusioned and questioning whether God is really all others have claimed him to be.

I think that if we were honest we would agree we have all been there. Life is challenging and difficult sometimes for all of us. We wonder "where is God, can I really trust Him?" You can!!!

Was Gideon really a mighty warrior? The Lord said so, but did Gideon really believe it? He was, he just didn't know it yet. Tomorrow we will look at the man Gideon.

Response to the cry for help

2007-06-05T08:34:00.000-07:00

The Israelites had reached the end of their resources and they have cried out to the Lord for help. (Judges 6:6) In 6:7 we see the Lord has a response for His people.

He sent them someone to help, this time it was a prophet and the prophet had a message. First the prophet reminded them (8-9) of God's previous deliverance from the hands of the Egyptians, and all their oppressors and how God had given them the land. He also says in v.10 that God told them not to worship the gods of the Amorites, where they are now living. BUT they did not listen.

I have a friend that is going through a very difficult time in his life right now. His life seems to be falling apart. He turned his back on God and began to worship other things. Things that he knew would lead to destruction but he chose to idolize them and turn away from the way that he knew he should go. So here he is today, living in fear, under a deep oppression, feeling beat down and condemned and hopeless.

He has been like the Israelites, in that he has expereinced God's deliverance in the past, he has seen the favor of God rest upon him and yet he chose to turn his back on God. I have reminded him though that God is not done with him yet. He too finds himself in that "Again place." He needs to be reminded that God is still in control and that God desires for my friends true worship.

The power of Midian...desperation

2007-06-05T05:11:00.000-07:00

Judges 6:2-6 tells us of a very powerful group of people, the Midianites. It says their power was oppressive(2), caused the Israleites to live in hiding(2),destroyed their crops(3),took and destroyed their cattle(4), and ravaged the land(5). Wow that seems incredibly powerful to me. I think if I were one of the Israelites back then that I would have been intimidated too. Especially if I thought they had ultimate power to do whatever they wanted.

The truth is, the reason the Midianites had any power over the Israelites was because God allowed it and because the Israelites were "evil in the eyes of the Lord." The Midianites power was strong because God had a purpose.

What was God's purpose in this? I think I have an answer. It is found in verse 6. In desperation the Israelites cried out to the Lord for help.

Desperation, frustration, hopelessness, and destruction, day in and day out for seven years. Now that would be hard to deal with. I am sure there were many days they wondered if things would ever change.

During that time I am sure there must have been a remnant of people who were still committed to God. Yet they remain silent in this passage. Where were they? Maybe they felt too overwhelmed to do anything. Maybe they had given up. Maybe they were silently praying. We don't really know. But God knew!!!

Maybe you have been feeling like the Israelites lately. Desperate, frustrated, hopeless and overwhelmed. Maybe you have felt like giving up. Maybe you have been silently praying for help to come. I want to encourage you that help is on the way. God is still in control.

We will see tomorrow, that God's timing is near and that a miracle is about to take place.

Conversations

2007-06-04T18:09:00.000-07:00

Today I was in a lengthy conversation with a teen that has been going through some pretty intense personal trials the last three years. She has no relationship with her dad at all and her relationship with her mom is very strained. She is bullied at school and is completely overwhelmed with life.

Right now all of our conversation is via the internet. Pray with me that the Lord gives me guidance and the right words to know how to encourage her. Sometimes it seems like life is unfair. How could one teen be hit with so much and have so few people that really seem to care about how they are doing. Brothers and sisters this is not right.

I would ask you to look around the areas you live. Look into the faces of hurting people and ask God how you can make a difference in someones life today. To quote something I said a while back on my blog, "to the world you may be one person, but to one person you mat be the world." Be a world changer!!!

Again...place

2007-06-04T06:07:00.000-07:00

I enjoy teaching God's Word for two reasons: 1. I always learn something new when I prepare and 2. I love to help others go deeper in their knowledge and relationship with God.

I am going to do a short teaching on the life of Gideon, found in Judges Chapters 6-8. I have thought about his life and how God used him powerfully and yet he was faced with many challenges.

When we get to the book of Judges the Israelites have finished their years of wandering in the desert and have reached the promised land. One would think that since they have finally reached their desired destination and that they have seen the Lord's provision that they would follow Him and His teachings, We understand though that this is not the case.

The people lost sight of their identity as God's people, chosen and called by Him, and their role in His army. You know this sounds alot like us. Sometimes we forget who we are in Christ, his calling and purpose for us in our lives and that we are soldiers for the king.

As we begin to read in Judges 6, we see the condition of the Israelites. It is based on their realtionship with God. Judges 6:1 says, "AGAIN, the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord, and for seven years he gave them into the hands of the Midianites."

Is it just me or do we often see that pattern in humanity. We seem to be doing well, are focused on God, are seeking his face and then we become complacent. We begin to allow things to get between us and our realtionship with God. Then we find ourselves in that AGAIN place.

God is always concerned with us when we get in that again place. He wants so much more for us, He wants us to really live a full and complete life in Him. If you are in that again place, then come before Him again. Begin anew to go deeper with God.

Making cookies, check the ingredients

2007-06-02T15:23:00.000-07:00

Today I had a youth event planned where I invited teens to my house to bake cookies for a church function. I thought I would have four teens show up but I was wrong. It turned out that 11 teens showed up, nine guys and two gals.

One of the guys mixed all the ingredients together and then asked me if there was another bag of flour, so he could add more flour to the mix. I said to him well you havent even used the bag of flour I bought. He said yes I did. Then he discovered he had added 2 cups of baking powder instead of two cups of flour. Needless to say we could not use the mixture he had put together and we had to throw it out and start over.

I think that there is an illustration here. Sometimes we add things into our lives that we think are good and then we determine that we added the wrong things. This can be friendships, choices we make, music, or whatever else fits. There are times the best thing we can do is start over and start fresh. A fresh start can be very empowering.

Well the cookies finally were "put togther right" and the finished product turned out to be quite good. We all shared some of the cookies and had lots of fun. The kids were great but it was hard to keep so many occupied. When you go from four to eleven that is quite a challenge but one I hope to face often.

Risk taking teens

2007-06-01T05:33:00.000-07:00

Last night we were together again for our home cell group on the first nation. It was and is such a blessing. We were blessed to have two new teenagers join us for the first time. It was an answer to prayer for me as well as their parents.

One of the teens became our scripture reader. He was excited to read the Word and it was possibly the first time he had read God's Word. Awesome!!!

Both of the boys participated throughout our time together and both of them said they enjoyed what we did. I have been asking them to join us for a number of weeks and they finally took a risk and came out.

Risk is something that people often try to stay away from. Teens are often risk takers. At times they are negative: drugs, alcohol, sex, wreckless driving, violence etc... At times they are positive: trying out for a sports or drama team, singing, applying for a job, going to church or standing up for what is right. We need to encourage our teens to take positive risks.

At the end of our service, I took a risk. I went around to each of the six people including the teens and layed hands on them and prayed for them. I felt it was a positive risk I needed to take. I believe that God wants to and is doing some new and exciting things amongst us. I am blessed to be able to minister with my first nation friends.

Prosperity theology bugs me

2007-05-31T11:17:00.000-07:00

I spent some time this morning talking with a family that are very precious to me. One of the things the husband brought up was how he is frustrated by the word "Christian", especailly as it relates to how people sometimes view and think of Christians.

As a new Christian he says he is getting tired of feeling like he is excpected to be perfect. So if you are perfect, please stop reading here. The rest of this blog might be offensive to you.

Where did this idea of perfect Christians come from. If our churches and meetings are full of perfect people what real impact are we having anyway. No perfect people should be allowed in church. Why? Because there are no perfect people. That way everyone should be welcomed in.

The message often portrayed in some churches is that you need to be perfect to attend. Then once you make a decison for Christ, you will have a prosperous and blessed life. Only the weak in their faith will have trials and persecution. I have a word I would like to insert here but I will choose a kinder word, nonsense.

I was reminded of a previous conversation I had with a health and wealth preacher in Alabama. He told me that no one has ever been afflicted with sickness and not been healed in his church. He had been there 15 years. Therefore I would have to assume he never has performed a funeral. Come on, lets be realistic.

To bring this full circle, here is my point. Should we really be suggesting to people that the people in the pews of our churches are perfect, and that by becoming a Christian, life will be a bouquet of roses. No we shouldn't!!! The more effective message is that Christ died for imperfect people and that He will be with us as we go through the trials and tribulations of life.

I agree with my friend that if this is the type of Christianity we are supposed to identify with, I wish they would come up with another name for who they are. Maybe we can call them...

Going deep with God

2007-05-30T06:28:00.000-07:00

GO DEEP!!!!

Well I have started back at therapy and I can tell you, "IT HURTS!!!" There are times when he presses on trigger points that I think I am going to levitiate. Just kidding about the levitation, but not about the pain. But if I am going to find that healing he will need to continue to go deep.

Lately the Lord has been showing me something that is so important in ministry. So here it goes:
It seems to me that often in Christian circles we are content with leading people to Christ and talking to them about Jesus. Now statistics tell us that the average Christian leads less than 1 other person to Christ during their lifetime. There is something seriously wrong (I mean with what we are doing not that the statistics are wrong).

For those who are invloved in "evangelism" we can sometimes take the approach of leading someone to Christ and then moving on to the next person. There is a real problem with that approach. Here is why!!!

If the message we preach is forgiveness without repentance we are sharing a cheap gospel. In Luke 24:47 we find written, "Repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." I am understanding that it is not enough to just stand on the corner and tell someone they need to be forgiven or preach forgiveness, it is part of the message but not the whole message. The message we share needs to include repentance.

Repentance means to turn from the direction we are heading and go in the opposite direction. Repentance means turning and going towards God. It means we need to teach those who pray for forgiveness how to really go deep with God and learn from Him. Maybe I am wrong but I think the church has often been guilty of sharing a watered down gospel.

I know churches keep lots of statistics. I think the most important thing a church should keep track of is not how many new members they have, or how many new converts, but on how many disciples did they make.

Just like the illustration I shared about my therapist having to go deep to bring healing and help me to move forward with strength, the same thing needs to happen in our walk with God. We need to go deep and help others to go deep and become disciples of Christ. It requires more of us and of those we disciple.

How intimate is our relationship with Christ?

2007-05-29T09:42:00.000-07:00

I was recently sharing what it means to be in a relationship with Christ, I used the following example. While at the home of friends there was a grandmother and granddaughter. I have been friends of the family for some time now and I said to the grandaughter "can you give me a hug?" This of course was done in front of others to illustrate my point.

The granddaughter came beside me and put her arm around my shoulder and then went and sat down. I then said, "can you give your grandmother a hug?" She walked over to her grandmother, wrapped both arms around her, put her head on her grandmothers shoulder, and told her that she loved her. It was beautiful to watch and to see the smile on her grandmothers face. It brought tears to her eyes!!

This illustrated the way we approach Christ. If Christ is just a casual aquaintance we will half heartedly reach out to Him and be sure to keep Him at a distance. But if we are like the grandmother and granddaughter the realtionship is different. It is one where we can wrap our arms around the Lord, trust Him, rest in Him and truly love Him. We can feel the warmth of His embrace.

Maybe you are trying to keep your relationship with Christ at a distance. Don't!!! Embrace the Lord and get to know Him more personally. You will find His arms are open and ready to wrap you up.

Take a leap!!!

2007-05-28T08:18:00.000-07:00

I was thinking this morning about the journey of being a faith missionary over the last 10 years and I was reminded that my journey of faith started well before that. Over the next few days I am going to share with you some of the miraculous provison God has blessed us with over the years.

I remember vividly moving to Sussex, NB to go to Bible college. We had to move into a home that we could not afford as a full time student at college. While driving in the rental van to take what few belongings we had, my dad asked me a question. He said, "can you really afford this house?" My response was "NO". He then asked "have you thought about getting a border to stay in an extra room in the basement?". My response was, "That would be a great idea if I knew someone who was looking to board, but I don't really know of anyone."

Well we arrived in Sussex within an hour. As I walked up to the front door to unlock it and enter our house for the first time, I saw a note. On the note was written "you don't know me but my name is Susan. I am a student at BBC(the Bible college) and I am looking for a place to board. If you think this is possible, please let me know."

That is where my journey of truly trusting God began. I saw that I needed to step out into the unknown and that God would meet me when I took the step.

Maybe you are struggling to take a step out into the unknown. If God is leading you to do it, He will meet your need. You see this isn't a blind leap, it is a leap into the arms of God. He is able!!!

You were running a good race

2007-05-27T09:42:00.000-07:00

You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? Gal. 5:7

Last night we had so much fun. Myself and four teens went to the local race track to see the races. Lots of cars going at high speeds and occasionally seeing some really incredible accidents made for some thrilling moments.

One of the best racers is known as "Smokin Joe". Smokin Joe is an old guy probably in his late sixties, skinny, and with a white beard that is about a foot long. They love him because no matter where he starts on the race track, he always finds his way to the front where he stays. He drives a bright orange #04 car.

Last night was no different, Smokin Joe was in the lead of the race with about 10 laps to go. Just as he came accross the start finish line the car behind him, #99, made contact and drove them both into the wall. The 99 car flipped over and gas was spilling out, smoke was flying and people feared for a fire. When the smoke cleared all the people saw Smokin Joe laying on the ground beside his car, he had managed to climb out but was a bit dazed. For Smokin Joe it meant the end of the night. He was not going to win this race and in fact would not finish the race.

I think that this same thing can happen to us in life as well. We can be running along and destined to win in our walk with the Lord. Then all of the sudden we get banged around by other people and find ourselves out of the race. We let our circumstances begin to determine how long we stay in the race. If that is you, get back in the race. Get back on track with God.

Well before the night was over, Smokin Joe did make his way back onto the racetrack. He was only able to race a couple of laps before his car finally gave up. But he made the effort to get back in the race. What a great example of what it meant to persevere.

Next generation...a reflection of us

2007-05-26T06:56:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

Today is both an exciting and sad day. Why? My son, Ryne, is headed out for three months to work at a summer camp in Georgia. He is so excited to get invloved in hands on ministry.

When I think about Ryne and his journey I can clearly see people who have had an impact on him. One person is Mike. Mike has truly invested in Ryne and discipled him over the past year. Another person is Emily, my sons fiancee. She has such a heart for children and making a difference in their lives.

I have to evaluate what kind of an impact I am having on other people. It is easy to become focused on things that are really unimportant. The most important things we can focus on are God, family and others. We are given the privilege of walking on this earth to impact others.

The next generation is one I need to have influence over. I need to invest in them, befreind them and teach them. I need to disciple them.

I will miss my son not being around this summer but I am so excited to see how much he has grown this year and to hear about the lives he now will impact. It is an honor to release my son into ministry and to know that God is going to use him.

Update: My son will not be in Georgia this summer as he was denied entrence into the US. Makes you wonder who they let in and don't let in. Bizarre!!! I know God has something else planned for him.

Love your neighbour

2007-05-25T05:39:00.000-07:00

Thursday night is our cell group that meets on the reserve. Last night we were few in number, just five of us, but we had a wonderful time together. Our topic of discussion was "How to Love Our Neighbour".

Matt 22:37-40 Jesus replied, “Love the lord with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbour as yourself. All the law and prophets hang on these two commandments.

I believe that it is not really possible to love our neighbour the way we need to unless we truly love the Lord. When we really love the Lord we will be in commmunion with Him, we will be in His word, we will understand how He loves people and He can reveal to us how to really care for our neighbours.

Sometimes we expect our neighbours to treat us the way we want to be treated. I think this is unrealistic. I think we need to be accepting of our neighbours and find ways to connect with them.

There is a very heavy burden on the reserves for those who don't know Him. They want their neighbours to come to know Christ. They want to know how to reach their fellow native brothers and sisters.

I think we all began to understand that if we really want to love our neighbour and see them come into relationship with Jesus, that we need to spend time with God, hear from Him, and then act. Find what God wants us to do and then do it.

1 John 3:18 “Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.”

Hooked on drugs

2007-05-23T18:10:00.001-07:00

I spent three hours today ministering with a family who are going through some real challenges with their teen son. He is drinking, smoking pot and getting into fights. They called me and asked if I could meet with them to try and give them some wisdom.

We discussed how their son had gotten to this place. There were so many factors. We talked about different organizations that could help and different programs that he could potentially enter. We talked about a number of different options but we always came back to the same solution, Jesus!!!

Isn't it amazing how the only true and lasting answer is Jesus. I know it sounds simple but it is true. No matter what challenges we face, the ultimate answer is Jesus.

We concluded our three hours together by praying and asking God for His wisdom. We are asking God to move on his life in a new and special way. We know that God can transform his life by renewing his mind. We are praying that God would chase after him until he repents of this destructive behavior.

Maybe there are people in your life that you don't know what to do with and how to reach them. Lay them at the feet of Jesus. As a good friend of mine says, "Let Go and Let Jesus!!!"

Dinner conversations

2007-05-23T05:46:00.000-07:00

Last night we were eating supper with the girls and they had a friend over. I had never met him before. He seems like a nice kid. He has lots of piercings and at least four different colors of hair. So I decided to get to know him a little bit better.

I found him to be a very honest and straight forward teen. I appreciate that. We talked about a lot of things and then I asked him about his church background. He shared that he had no use for religion. He said I don't have time to deal with that right now. He said I want to do alot of other things first and in a few years I'll deal with that if I feel like it.

I shared with him that he was making a big mistake because he was not guaranteed anything in life. His response was that he was smart enough to stay safe.

I asked him what would happen if he died and stood before God, what would he do. He said he would talk his way out of trouble and even if he couldn't that he could handle pain. I reminded him again that he had faulty thinking.

We never argued at all we just talked. At the end of our conversation he said, "Do you judge me for the way I think?" My response was, "No I do not. I respect your ability to do and choose what you want. But you really need to rethink what you have believed to be true. "

It is sad that so many people believe so many lies. They are deceived. They need the truth. In his case he has heard the truth. He spent six years in a Christian school and went to church every Sunday for years. I am glad that he was at my dinner table.

Trigger Points and Pottery

2007-05-22T06:55:00.000-07:00

An updated picture of me from the meetings in Florida

Jeremiah 18:6 "Like clay in the hands of a potter, so are you in my hands."

I start back today with my therapist who treated me last year. He does a technique called trigger point therapy. This is basically how it works. John my therapist finds points in my shoulder and neck that he identifies as trigger points. When he pushes on them it causes very direct and sharp pain. He pushes hard for a number of seconds until the pain backs off and then releases. He then goes back to the same spot a few seconds later and repeats the process. He does this until the pain is not produced in the location.

There are times when he can't push deep enough using his hands. He then gets out a special "tool" (it is like the tool doctors use to check your reflexes) and really digs in. It really is not a pleasant experience. But, if he can hit on that trigger point enough and go deep the healing will come. That is what I am trusting for as I begin to allow him to work on me again.

Our spiritual lives are very much the same. First I must choose to let the Holy Spirit really go to work in my life. Sometimes we have to go through some very painful things in order to get healing. There are times when the Holy Spirit needs to go deep and we just want Him to go shallow.

Here's the real application as I see it. We need to put our lives into the hands of the master, the potter. He wants to mold us, challenge as and go deep with us. In His hands there is real safety and best of all healing. My therapist wants to help me find healing through the work of his hands. My Jesus wants you and I to find healing through the work of His hands. GO DEEP!!!!

Identity crisis

2007-05-21T02:12:00.000-07:00

After rising early 2:30 a.m., I headed to the airport in Melbourne, Florida to head back home after spending a week in leadership meetings at our COI HQ. It was a wonderful week and a long week all at the same time.
I arrived so early that the airport was not even open yet. That was a first for me, to have to wait outside at an airport at three in the morning. It actually was a neat experience to be in a place where it was so quiet.
After a short wait outside the doors were finally opened and I was allowed to come inside. Once again I was all alone, just me and a security person.
Then when I went through security the screener told me that she would need to see more ID than my drivers license. She wanted to know if I had a passport, which I did have. She said it was necessary. Interesting I thought!!!
As I think about that experience I reflect on my relationship with Christ. I know who I am, and I know that He knows me. My identity is in Him.
Whats interesting for me is that my passport photo and drivers license look completely different. In fact my drivers license is more recent and looks much more like me. Though the one she used to check me through was my passport.
So the question is: where is our identity found and does who we present really represent who we are.
Well they are calling me to board. Finally.

New style of ministry

2007-04-24T06:51:00.000-07:00

I am excited about a new way to reach out to people using the ineternet. I know most of you are already using the internet and things like MSN to reach out to people, but I have not used MSN as a ministry tool until today.

There are teens I have been trying to reach but it is tough when they are in a group setting for them to be themselves. So I figured if teens are most comfortable using things like MSN to talk with friends maybe I could really reach them through this avenue of 1 on 1.

My first conversation has been great. I was able to answer questions for a teen I work with on what heaven is like. I asked her if she could ask Jesus one question, what would it be and she shared that she would ask what heaven was like and if he (Jesus) really wanted to die on the cross. great questions.

I was able to point her to the Bible for those answers and she went and got her Bible and was amazed to find answers to her questions there. I am so glad that the Bible is truly a reliable source for answers to our questions.

If you have had great opportunites using the internet, let me know how you have been blessed.

Down on the farm

2007-04-21T08:28:00.000-07:00

I recently shared about a young lady I met who has been battling alcohol for some time now. I have been hoping to surround her with good people who can build her up.

On Tueday I drove Catherine out to visit friends of mine, Bruce and Charlotte. They have an animal farm and are wonderful people. As we all sat together in their living room, I could see Catherines countenance change. She saw real people, who genuinely care about people.

After we left and were on our way home Catherine said" I can't believe how nice they are." She was so excited to meet them. In fact Catherine is going to start helping them out at their farm.

This morning Catherine started helping out. She was so excited to be around the animals, to dig in the manure, to stand in the warm sunshine, to feel that people really do care about her. I am trusting God for a real move in her life, and for Catherine to see that it is possible to have fun and joy and it does not have to include alcohol.

Discipling and teaching on our First Nations

2007-04-13T07:18:00.000-07:00

Over five years have passed since I first began to do ministry at our local First Nation Indian reserves. It has been filled with many wonderful times and at the same time with very challenging issues to deal with. Last night I had the privilege of launching a new ministry that I want to share.

I have been praying often about training new believers on the reserves and helping them to understand the heart of God and His Word. As we sat in the home of a new Christian last night, I took a look around. There in our circle were seven other people. One lady has been a Christian for a few years, four have been Christians for just a few weeks, and others are not yet believers. I was so thankful for God honoring my prayer and those of others to be involved in teaching the Word and making disciples!!

I love my work amongst the First Nation people. It is a cross cultural ministry!!! It is, for the most part,with unchurched people and most often with unevangelized people. It is so refreshing to be able to sit with people who really want to learn and have so many questions. It is so exciting to hear them pray, and to see the joy on their faces when they understand in their hearts what questions they have been feeling confused about.

We will be meeting once a week. We are trusting God for growth within our group and within the kingdom. We believe that within a short time we will need a bigger place to meet. We will be faithful to meet together and trust God for those we are praying for.

Now that's funny!!!

2007-04-11T06:02:00.000-07:00

Last night I was driving some kids home from the childrens ministry at the reserve. A song came on the radio that a couple of the older kids recognized. One of the kids exclaimed, "Oh my God".

Well the kids have been learning that it is not good to swear, which is good. So one of the kids wanted to correct the other and she said, "You took the Lord's veins". Well I can tell you that I had to laugh under my breath. It was so funny and so cute at the same time.

Exciting ministry continues to take place on the reserves and I am glad to be a part of it. Lord willing, this weekend I will be off to Nova Scotia to visit another reserve with some native friends of mine. They are hoping to establish a Bible study group there. I am going along to see what options could be a vailable for youth and how we could do things together.

Ministry can be full of laughs from time to time!!!

You never know what God has planned...

2007-04-02T17:35:00.000-07:00

I received a call early Saturday morning from a friend of mine. I met Hal about four years ago during a ministry outreach here in Fredericton. Hal was planning to commit suidice when I first met him and through God's intervention our paths crossed on that day many years ago.

I had seen Hal on a number of occasions these last few weeks. I always tried to stop and talk with him. He has been battling alcoholism for the last 35 years or so. Right now he is losing the battle. In fact he is so sick with alcoholism that if he does not have a drink, he will go into seizures.

On Saturday when he called he asked if I could come right away to talk with him. He had a particularly rough day on Friday and once again had contemplated suicide. I immediatley headed to his home to talk. As he began to talk of his experience on Friday he shared how he even ended getting into a scuffle with another person in order to protect a young lady who was being pushed around by her "boyfriend". Then he said, "I know you are here to talk with me, but I think this young lady needs to have someone to talk with. Could you talk with her?"

I agreed and just a few minutes later this 15 year old girl walks into the room and begins to share her story with me. I am not allowed to go into all the details but I will share this, this young lady needs someone to stand beside her and help her through this difficult situation. We ended up talking for close to 2 hours and then I met with her again later for another 2 hours. I spoke very clearly to her about her options and how I was prepared to help. She needs to be delivered from alcholism and this abusive situation.

After she left Hal and I began to talk again. He began to weep as he shared how sick he was and how hopeless his situation was. Hal shared that he prays for help from God every morning and evening and he is unsure what else to do. Hal needs a miracle. He has tried to quit so many times. He is a man that believes in God and the power of Jesus.

It continues to amaze me how the Lord continues to lead me to invest in and cross the paths of hurting and desperate people. I love to do the work of the Lord and to invest my life in ministering to those facing enormous challenges.

Praise God, a new believer

2007-03-28T12:20:00.000-07:00

I just came from a visit with my friends on the reserve Label and Loretta. They have been through some really challenging days and were seperated for close to three weeks. It looked like their marriage was ending. The power of prayer changed things for them and their extended family.
Through the seperation Label realized his true need for God and for His intervention. It has had an effect on his siblings as well. Last night at the native Bible study, Labels sister Freida gave her heart to Christ. She had been resisting the Lord for years but last night she asked for repentance and has begun a relationship with Christ.
Loretta and Label shared with me their desire to have me begin to disciple them and their extended family. I am thrilled to be able to minister in this way.
Though I did not personally pray with Freida to accept Christ in to her life, I know I played a part. I have tried to make an impact in Loretta and Label's lives and in turn they have been able to invite Freida out to the Bible study where she could experience the peace that they have been talking about.
I could not do what I do unless people like you stood behind me. Thanks for your investment in the life of Freida.

Weekend in Syracuse

2007-03-26T13:03:00.000-07:00

I know it has been a long time since I have written anything on my blog, so I thought I should send an update.

I spent this past weekend speaking at a missions weekend at a church in Syracuse, NY. It was nice to be able to share about what God has been teaching me through my missions experience.

I was able to share about the missions opportunities that exist within COI and hopefully find some people who would like to do a short term mission trip or serve as summer interns.

The best part for me personally was to be able to spend time with the Grant family. Don, the pastor of the church, and his wife Susan have been friends of ours for a number of years, in fact Don gave Ruth and I our first opportunity to be involved in ministry back in the early 90's.

I was reminded this weekend of how much of an impact hurricane Katrina has had on my life. As I was sharing some of the wonderful lessons I had learned and sharing the stories of some of those we were able to help, my heart was moved again with compassion for the people of the gulf coast. I looked at some of the pictures I had taken during my time in the gulf and I was reminded again to keep the stories and images of the gulf alive in others.

Tonight I head home on a 12 hour bus ride, not too excited about that. I am presently working at Youth For Christ in Montreal, doing some catch up stuff. It has been good to be able to do some planning for the summer trips in Montreal.

Blessings to all...

Profound thought

2007-02-21T05:58:00.000-08:00

I like to look through high school yearbooks and read some of the quotes graduates make. Some are funny, some are sad and some are profound. Here are a few:
"He who laughs last, didn't get the joke."
"Never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups."
"Be a good listener, your ears will never get you in trouble."
Here is my favorite...Think about this: "To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world."
I believe that you and I make an impact on people. Maybe it is through an act of kindness, maybe it is by listening to someone, maybe it is by forgiving someone.
If you are feeling insignificant take a few minutes to think of just one or two people who you are a blessing to.

He who began a good work...

2007-02-19T09:09:00.000-08:00

I am sure we know the words that will finish this sentence. He who began a good work will be faithful to complete it. I was reminded of this verse this morning when I received an email from friends in Ohio.

As many of you know I spent close to four months in 2005 helping those displaced by hurricane Katrina. One of the precious families we met in Bayou La Batre were Robin and Holly, the Barbour family. They had lost so much including their home which had many feet of sewer water flood in. I had made a commitment to Robin that we would see them through the process all the way to getting them back into their home.

Many teams came with the COI ministry into the gulf coast area. Nearly each team that came in, either through myself or our staff, were taken to Robin's house to have them pray for her and her family and to meet them. Many teams also worked on this home either by stripping it down to its studs, replacing the flooring, taking out the wood floors piece by piece and bleaching them down, running new electrical, building a new porch or bringing words of hope and encouragement, and many other things.

The very first team we had in the gulf coast kept working and working, raising money and I believe totally adopted this family. They never gave up and recently returned for another mission trip to the Bayou. During their time they were able to complete Robin and Holly's home including furnishings and appliances. They were able to share a meal in this beautiful home.

My heart truly rejoices. God was faithful to complete what we had begun. God had honored my promise to this family even though I was not there to see the finished product.

I would like to thank each and every team that spent time either working on or praying for the Barbour family. You have all made a difference in this family. Most of all I thnak God for His faithfulness to see this project through to completion. The most wonderful thing though is that this is not the end of the relationship. I know that the Barbours have really connected with this team from Ohio and that they along with myself will continue to build a relationship with this family.

Praise the Lord!!!

The Saulis family

2007-02-14T10:33:00.000-08:00

I have been sharing with you about the family in our area that have been living in some pretty challenging situations. They have been living without running water, indoor plumbing, and we have just recently finished installing their electrical.

This is the wonderful couple, Labell and Loretta. They said this is the first picture taken of them in years. I thought they looked pretty good.
Please pray for Loretta as she goes to the doctor, she is very concerned about the possibility of having cancer. She comes from a family that has this history and she has been having serious discomfort/pain in her body. She is hoping to have a mammogram right away. I visited with the family this morning and Loretta felt to share this prayer need with me, which I am passing on to you.

This is their kitchen, you can see the insulation which is covered by the plastic. Their sink is one removed from an old mobile trailer.
If you have ever been around people that will inspire you these people will. I never hear them complain, I only hear of how God is all they need and how He is their source of hope.

A praise note to report is that we were able to have a business in town donate some lumber so that Labell can now frame in the windows for their home. At this point they have no windows installed in the home but they do have windows that they can put in now that we have the 2x6's to work with.

I hope this helps you to be able to put a face to the situation I have been sharing. Please lift up this couple along with their sons Winton and Curtis before the Lord.

Victory

2007-02-09T05:09:00.000-08:00

Many of you have been praying for a young lady named Shelby. I want to share something positive that is happening in her life.

As I picked her up yesterday to take her to the school to help her get reinstated she shared this with me, "Hey Scott, guess what, I stopped smoking pot and drinking." I was surprised and thrilled for her.

You could see the difference in her face. She was alive. Even the school administrators commented on how healthy she looked.

It will be a very tough road for her to walk out as she is surrounded by drugs and alcohol. I would pray that you would continue to join me in praying that the Lord will enable her to walk out this change. Right now Shelby doesn't have the Lord in her life so we need to stand for her.

My prayer for Shelby is that she can set the example for many others as she lives her life. I know that she has such a desire to help others. It is so encouraging to see even one teen have the courage to stand up and say enough is enough.

Another open door

2007-02-08T07:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning during my quiet time I received a phone call from Cathy, a lady in our church. She was making a hot meal and wanted to deliver it to the family we are helping on the reserve. Cathy was taking the gifts she has and using them for God to bless others.

In the afternoon I met Cathy and we delivered the meal to the family. They were so greatful. Cathy was able to stay and visit for an hour or so which was so nice. She was told that she could come back and visit any time.

As Cathy was sharing I asked the family about the possibility of starting a home group at their home. This is the same home that has no running water and not much furniture. The answer was yes, we should start a once a week sharing time and study time in their home. I hope to have this up and running in the next two weeks.

It seems that whenever I visit a family on the reserve that others are visiting and once again this was the situation as two extended family members were visiting. I see this as God opening new doors to share in. I always take the time to pray before leaving and I did so again. I believe that the power of prayer can truly change things.

Work team completes step 1

2007-02-05T11:42:00.000-08:00

I want to say a huge thank you to God, first and foremost, for raising up a team of guys to go in and help the Saulis family on our local Indian reserve. A special thanks as well to a local electrician who donated all the material needed to run the electric through this home.
Saturday morning and afternoon became a very productive day thanks to Tom Liddle (electrician) and his son Tim (my brother in law), as well as Matt Collicott and Luke Doig. These four men blessed this family and we were able to run the electric through the entire home.
While we were working I asked the father of the home if he could have ever imagined that God would send a team like this to bless him and his family? He just shook his head in amazement that God would provide in such a tangible way.
This morning I went back to visit the family. I had the opportuntiy to pray with them and for them. Of couse God was at work because shortly after I arrived another family came by to visit and I was able to share Christ with them also.
I am so thankful for the way God is moving on the reserves. I feel like tremendous momentum is being gained and that God is doing a new thing. Please continue to pray for this ministry!!!

Comprehending the reality

2007-02-02T10:38:00.000-08:00

I am watching the pictures flash accross the internet and television of the devestating tornadoes that have hit central Florida. I can tell you from my experience working in post hurricane Katrina, that the pictures give only a small glimpse into what the true reality is.

When the reality of a situation becomes "real", perspectives change. People do things differently. They think differently.

I think that the message of the gospel needs to be put into proper perspective as well. The reality is, people need Jesus. He is alive. He cares. He is not someone who heaps condemnation on people. He died for them.

Why are people not able to see what Christianity is truly about? Maybe because they have only seen it from a distance. They think they know what it is like. Maybe the church has not been true to the true nature of Christ. Maybe the church is seen as dead, uncaring, condemning and unconcerned.

As I watch the pictures and listen to the stories being told I can't help but think that this is another wonderful opportuntity for the "church...the body of Christ", to come to life, The body of Christ is alive!!! The body of Christ is caring!!! The body of Christ is accepting!!! The body of Christ is concerned!!!

WE ARE THE BODY!!! I can guarantee you that the church will provide a leading role in the recovery. I saw it in the gulf, I expect to see it again.

Waiting on the Lord

2007-02-01T06:16:00.000-08:00

I have been at home this morning praying and asking God to move mightily in a number of situations. I will tell you that I have days when I feel overwhelmed with the challenges before me and at other times I am overwhelmed with the presence of God.
Today I experienced both. As I kneeled on the floor before the Lord I was overcome with emotion at my true need for the power of God to move in a number of areas of my life. I poured out my heart to Him. After nearly an hour I felt a peace of God come to my rescue. His Word spoke to me.
One of the Words I feel He spoke to me was rest. I am in such a need for that. I do not mean do nothing, I mean rest. Rest in Him and think on Him.
I began to do this and God began to remind me of His faithfulness over the years. I needed that. I am carrying some very heavy burdens and I know that I need to find my "rest" in Him.
Please pray for our family and the ministry I am involved in. It would be easier to give up but I am trusting in the Lord's help!!!

That was quick

2007-01-30T08:37:00.000-08:00

In my previous post I shared a need for an electrician to come in and help with running the electric in a home on one of our reserves. I just got a call from an electrician who is going to do the work and from another electrician who has confirmed he will be donating the material.
It is wonderful to see the Lord work and provide for this immediate need. Just as a side note, if anyone locally could provide some hot meals for this family over the next couple of days, please let me know.

Visiting family on the reserve

2007-01-30T07:30:00.000-08:00

This morning I went to spend some time with a family. I mentioned before that they are living in a pretty rough situation on one of our local Indian reserves. Yesterday their only source of electricity, their generator stopped working, so they are keeping warm from the wood stove.
On a positive note the family is now able to receive some financial assistance through the government which should provide money for a smalll amount of groceries weekly. They also had delivered to them just about enough sheetrock to finish their home once we get the electrical finished. Please pray along with them that we can get an electrician in right away so we can really move forward.
Both the mom and dad are battling sickness at this point with pretty nasty colds. It is not surprising due to the situation they are living in.
They continue to wait on a miracle. I feel blessed to be able to call on them and pray with them. They are wonderful people enduring overwhelming challenges.

Prayer request

2007-01-29T05:49:00.000-08:00

Yesterday at our church an announcement was made that the prayer room in our church still needed another 7,000.00 in order to begin and complete the project. That plea has been made before and up until yesterday no answer had come. Well yesterday at church someone wrote a check for 7,000.00 and the need was taken care of.
I was thrilled to see God move in the midst of this need and at the same time I was a bit discouraged as I know we still have a tremendous personal financial need that still remains unchanged.
I was encouraged though to once again bring our financial need before God and people to make them aware of the miracle we need. So please pray that some resolution comes our way.
I have an unspoken prayer request as well. I need God's wisdom in a situation where I must confess I am unsure what to do next. My peace comes from knowing that God is in control and He will reveal to me what to do.
Also one last request. Our ministry base in Florida has a property that needs to be sold. It is causing the ministry to have a financial burden it does not need. A potential buyer has stepped forward and it would be such a blessing to have this weight removed from the ministry.

Pictures from Amazing Race

2007-01-24T06:34:00.000-08:00

Building friendships
Knocking down 80 pins as fast as you can
Three people eating half a pie
Finding chips around Freddy
Concentrating on the Sodoku

Amazing Race

2007-01-23T06:15:00.000-08:00

Saturday afternoon was such a beautiful day after a winter storm hit our area on Friday. I was hoping for good weather so we could host our native outreach. We got the good weather and played "The Amazing Race".

It was so much fun. Each of the eleven teens who participated had a great time and asked when we would be doing it again. It was very competitive, in a good way.

We had four teams in the race which took over three hours to complete. In the end the difference in time between the first and second place team was just .57 seconds. In fact the difference between first and fourth was less than 10 minutes.

There were many fun and challenging things for the teens to do on the race. The last challenge for the teams was a choice. They could either eat gross food, or roll a basketball from one end of the gym to the other into a small net, they had to do this 40 times. To eat the food would be faster but only one team could eat it. Other teams started to eat it but couldn't get over the taste.

What was in the "food"? We started with plain yogurt and added bean sprouts, red kidney beans, hotdogs, and the topper was olives. I felt it was only right if I asked the teens to eat it that I did it as well. It turned out to be delicious???, so I took the leftovers home to have for a snack!!! Just kidding.

I will be posting pictures later from this event. We continue to have so much fun and we grow stronger together as a group. One thing we do need are some funds to be able to put into this ministry. If you know of someone who could help us out that would be great. Right now we are paying for this ministry out of our own pockets.

Favor of God

2007-01-17T05:30:00.000-08:00

I have been praying about a native family and finding a way to reach them. I have asked God for wisdom beyond my own and an opportunity to really connect with the mom and brother. On Monday the Lord opened that door wide.

As I drove to the reserve I asked God once again for His favor. When I arrived at the home to meet with the daughter I was welcomed with less than open arms. I was invited in but told they only had ten minutes to talk. When I speak of they, I mean the daughter and her brother.

As I sat at the kitchen table talking about helping this young lady get back in school, her brother said that she needed to listen to what I was saying. He told her that she needed to get back in school and that I had a plan that could work for her.

In just a few more minutes other teens from the reserve came into the house and listened to what I was talking about and they began to share their frustrations in life and how they want to be accepted like everyone else.

As this discussion was taking place, into the house walked the mother. I have called to talk with the mom on many occasions but she has been unwilling to talk with me. She has had people lie and tell me that she was not home when indeed she was. The mom began to listen to the conversation taking place and sat down to participate. It was amazing.

I knew I had been accepted a few minutes later whaen the son walked over and asked if I wanted to have a coffee with them. That was huge. It was a sign that I was welcome in their home.

For the next hour and a half we talked and laughed and shared stories together. I was able to share how I believed their was hope for their family and the community in general. I talked with the mom about beginning to do some counseling and she shared she would like to start.

The final blessing was having the young lady I went to talk to, agree to come out to a youth event we are doing this Saturday and she has invited three other friends who want to come along.

There was such an openness created during our conversation and I can only attribute this to the favor of God. I want to encourage you in this; if you are trying to reach out to people who seem unwilling to listen continue to trust God and pray that He give you His favor.

Catch and release

2007-01-11T06:23:00.000-08:00

Over Christmas I had the oportuntiy to read a powerful book, "Same Kind of Different As Me", it may have been the most powerful book I have ever read, it is a true story!!!. I could often only read ten or fifteen pages and have to walk away from the book as i was in tears.

The story is of three people from two different, radically different backgrounds, that the Lord brings together through the vision of a woman and the power of God. There is a poignant scene in this book where the two gentleman are having a discussion about friendship.

When we hear the words "catch and release" we often think of fishing. If we catch a fish that is undersized we then take it and put it back in the water or if we are simply fishing for the sport of it we take the fish and put it back in the water for another day. Either way we only have that fish in our possesion for a short time.

Going back to the discussion between the friends one man who has had a hard time in life and has never had a true friend, asks the other man, "Are you going to catch and release me?" In other words are you going to invest in me for a short time and then forget about me?, or are you and I going to be true friends that stick by one another?

I have thought alot about these words "catch and release". I began to think about some of the people God has placed in my path who I have not been in contact with for some time. I also thought about the people that are hard to minister to and what my commitment to them is. Am I in it for the long haul or simply to "catch and release".

One area of ministry where I know the Lord has specifically directed me to is our First Nation Indian Reserves. This is not a catch and release ministry. It is a get involved, make an impact and show people the love of Christ in all I do.

Merry CHRISTmas

2006-12-24T08:18:00.000-08:00

Christmas is a special time of year, especially for those who recognize Christ as the reason we celebrate the season. Unfortunately I believe many people have no idea or have chosen to focus on other things when it comes to Christmas. Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of Christ.

I was thinking this morning about celebrating a birthday. My birthday is in April and I always get cards from my family and sometimes friends. On those cards it usually says "Happy Birthday Scott". Why? Because it is a recognition of my birthday. But what if the cards I received just said "Happy". Happy what? There would be something important missing, my name. Sounds rediculous right?

Isn't that what is happening when it comes to Christmas? People running frantically during the "holiday season". People greeting us with "happy holidays". Stores with signs of "holiday shopping". People focused on Santa. People focused on outdoor lights and trees in our living room.

I think we as Christians need to take the time to be sure and greet people properly during this Christmas season. Without Christ, coming as a child to earth there would be no reason to celebrate Christmas. It is sad to think that we would celebrate the birth of the Savior of the world and at the same time remove His name from the Christmas season.

Happy Birthday Jesus!!! I am so glad you came into this world. Forgive me(us) for not recognizing you properly and for putting other things as a higher priority. Forgive me(us) for not standing up for you and taking the stand for you!!!

The movie

2006-12-18T06:06:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we took 24 people to see the "Nativity Story", of which nineteen were teens. We only had four of our regular youth teens out and fifteen new teens join us.

After the movie we came back to the school to talk about the movie and have some Christmas baking. I asked the question, "did this movie have anything to do with the Christmas story?", and the response was surprising. Only four of the teens felt it was the Christmas story. Many felt it had nothing to do with Christmas.

When asked further the majority felt that Christmas was about getting gifts. We then asked some more probing questions and we were able to get to the place of understanding that Christmas was about family and giving and the birth of a baby, Jesus.

It was interesting to see the contrast in "beliefs" about Christmas. Two of the teens who felt that the movie did reflect what Christmas was about were frustrated that others could not understand this. To them it was obvious what the story of Christmas is and that without Jesus there would be no Christmas season.

Pray for us as we move forward. There is a lot of work to do to bring this group together. Our core kids are going to be strong and focused but bringing the others on board will take time, patience and unconditional love.

Reserve ministry update...A movie & Amazing Race

2006-12-13T07:19:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday we had our second event, and we had four new teens out. We had great fun and we were able to further develop relationships with the teens. They have all been very respectful and excited about what we are trying to accomplish.

The next couple of weeks are going to be busy. We have purchased 40 tickets to the movie "The Nativity Story" for this Sunday for the reserve ministry. We have a bus reserved to take us all to the cinema. Following the movie we are going back to the rserve where we are going to discuss the movie and have some Christmas baking and eggnog, soda and chips. We are hoping to build new friendships during this time.

On the 23rd, the following Saturday, we are having our own version of the "Amazing Race". Our goal is to have 30-40 teens participate in this fast moving, prize filled outreach. Again the goal is to meet new teens who we have not connected with. It will also show that our group is exciting and we can have fun. Our leadeship team are very excited about the next couple of weeks.

We have identified one family in particular that we are going to help this Christmas. It is a single mom raising three daughters on a very low income. Two of the girls come to our native youth outreach and we want to not only reach out to teens but to their families as well.

We are praying for other adult leaders to join us. We feel that in just a short time we will be able to begin the same type of ministry on our other reserves. We need people who are commited to seeing teens, specifically native teens grow and develop into mature, responsible adults. We know the real answer to this growth is with God moving in their lives and giving them real hope and purpose.

Nehemiah...handling the opposition Part 8

2006-12-12T06:16:00.000-08:00

I remember back a few years, to the time I was called into full time ministry. I was not expecting this to happen in my life so I was as surprised that this was the plan the Lord had for me. After I got through the initial shock, I began to take some action steps to become better prepared to step into ministry.

For me one of those steps was going to Bible College. I was so excited to go and train. I had thought it through and prayed it through. But in stepped the opposition. I had people, good people, tell me how I was making the biggest mistake of my life. I had others question whether or not God really calls people to do something. It was surprisingly a very challenging time.

Now that is not the same type of opposition that Nehemiah experienced. Here were Tobiah, Sanballat and Geshem(2:19). They were not to thrilled to see the rebuilding take place. They wanted it to stop. As we will see further in the chapter they are going to stir up other people to oppose what Nehemiah was doing. What was there motive? I would suggest one was jealousy. If the walls were rebuilt it might cost them something personally. It might have been many other selfish reasons. I think that they were just self seeking people with an agenda.

What was Nehemiahs response? Let's build!!! Simple. We need to do what God is clearly leading us to do. We need to stay focused on the mission and not be delayed or side tracked. Let's get to work. He also reminded them that God would be the one that prospered what they did.

Nehemiah really pays no attention to the foolishness. He understands his calling and understands that God will supply the defense and God will deal with the opposition. He is not going to be side tracked by the naysayers.

I think it is possible to spend valuable time, wasted time trying to get people on board that are just not going to do so. Our focus can be taken off the task the Lord has given us by people who just want to spin their own agenda. Let us focus on what God has placed in our hearts. Let us get to work doing what God has planned. The battle belongs to the Lord!!!

Ministering to the masses?

2006-12-06T10:39:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had one of those experiences where a thought is implanted on your mind and heart which is not of your own doing? Let me explain what words were implanted on my heart.

I was walking accross a parking lot and noticed a parking lot full of cars. you know the Christmas rush where the mall parking lots are full. I looked and thought, "look at the masses" doing their last month shopping. I started to think about that word the masses.

I thought about those who are in ministry where they speak to the masses, in front of hundreds or thousands of people. I thought about those who are in ministry that have a congregation of people they are responsible for. There message can be delivered on a Sunday morning where they can speak to many people to share their message.

Then came that moment I shared about at the beginning, words spoken to my mind and heart that I have never considered before. These words were clearly understood by me. Here is the message, "I have not called you to minister to the masses, I have called you to minsister to the messes." Wow what a thought. That is the focus of the ministry God has called me to. Helping those in need, physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.

There is often pressure in ministry to develop a large ministry. There is certainly a place for large ministries. There is also a place for impacting people on a one to one basis. For sure it wont get the press like a big ministry, but it makes a huge impact to the people you minister to.

If you feel like God is calling you into ministry, follow Him. It does not matter if you minister to the masses or the messes. Trust his leading and impact someones life today. Maybe it is through a mission trip. Maybe it is by seeing someone in need and blessing them (not just with money but with your presence). Maybe it is by encouraging someone. Maybe it is by mentoring someone. Maybe it is......

Nehemiah...sharing how the hand of God is moving!! Part 7

2006-11-29T09:58:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been a part of something where you can clearly look at it and say "this is the hand of God!!!"?

Over the last few weeks I can clearly say that I know and see the hand of God on what I am doing. I see the leadership team God has put in place for our native outreach. I receive the phone calls from people I do not know who are in need. I am asked by people I do not know to come on board and assist in their communities. I am seeing and sensing a move of God in my life and ministry.

Last night we had a meeting on one of our local reserves with our leadership team. We talked about how clearly we saw God raise up those around the table. We also talked about the reality of the outreach we are doing. It might sound cliche, but it is true. If we are going to see this ministry take off, we need to follow the Lord very closely. We need Him to bless us and give us continued wisdom and orchestrate events we could never do.

Nehemiah in 2:17-18, shows us the proper way to go about beginning to build a ministry/project or anything. He rallies people around a cause and also reveals to them how "the hand of God was upon Him!!" I love the response of the people, "Let us start rebuilding." The message was simple, we need to do this and God is with us!!!

I believe that if there are things the Lord has laid on our heart to do, we need to be able to show others that God is clearly "in it". If others can see God moving they will want to get on board. Conversely, if it is just a good idea maybe we need to evaluate our involvement. Often we are surprised when a good idea falls flat on its face, sometimes that is because it was not of God and sometimes it is not the right timing.

I am reminded of the story of a wise man in Acts named Gamaliel. The people brought accusation against Peter and some of the other apostles and wanted then persecuted. They brought them before Gamaliel who uttered these words, "Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if there purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men, you will only find yourself fighting against God."

May we all sense how and where God is moving!!!

Great first outreach

2006-11-28T08:29:00.000-08:00

As we met in the school gymnasium on Saturday afternoon our leaders discussed how many teens we thought would come out to our kickoff event. We were not sure what would take place. We thought anywhere from two to twenty five. We were pleased to have 15 teens attend.

The teens really seemed to enjoy our time together. We had games to keep them busy, a short video and sharing time and then of course we had to eat. Pizza, chips and soda.

The first two teens that arrived were Shania and Maria, sisters. I had worked with these girls before at a different reserve and had not seen the girls in two years or more. It was exciting to see how God allowed our paths to cross again.

One of our goals in this outreach was to build friendships and to determine who some of the leaders were amongst the teens. All of our adult leadership team were able to identify the same two people. We see the potential to build an outreach through the influence of these key teens.

One of the most exciting things for me personally on this day was to have my son Ryne give assistance at the outreach. Ryne is feeling the call of God on his life into full time ministry. He was a natural and the kids really accepted him. It is such a blessing to do ministry with other family.

Please continue to pray for Shelby and her family. I am asking God to show me the best way to reach out to this precious family. I am asking for the favor of God, asking Him to go before me to prepare the way and trusting Him to speak clearly to me.

Native outreach

2006-11-21T07:23:00.001-08:00

This past month we have been working hard to put into place a youth group on one of our local Indian reserves. I have seen the hand of God move and I want bo share some of those developments with you.

In order to launch this outreach we needed to have adults on board with us. They need to have a heart for teens and for God. At our first meeting there were three of us. This past Thursday we had four people including two parents who are going to be a part of the leadership team. We also have a Christian police officer who is assigned to the reserve who is part of our team. It was wonderful to share with one another our hearts for the native community and to see the quality of people God is raising up to join in this important work.

Our first actual youth outreach is scheduled for Saturday afternoon. We are all excited about the potential and more importantly what God has placed in our hearts and how He is moving in our midst. We are expecting great things and the Lord has given us a vision of what it can be.

Yesterday was a great day of ministry for me. One of the teens, Shelby, from another reserve in town had run away from a group home. No one really knew where she was. I was able to track her down and spend some time talking with her and her mom. Last night we were able to get her back in the group home. I have been approved to be directly involved in Shelby's life by her mom and by the social worker attending to this case.

During our time of getting this teen back in the group home, her mom was asked a question by one of the directors of the group home. She asked the mom, what is Scott's relation to your family? Her response was "Christian mentor." I can't tell you how thrilled I was to have this family acknowledge me in this way.

Please continue to pray for our outreach on Saturday and for Shelby and her family.

Nehemiah...knowing what God put in his heart Part 6

2006-11-14T15:25:00.000-08:00

I just came from a meeting with a couple, where I was able to share what God had placed in my heart to do regarding native outreach to/with teens. I have spent months praying and writing down what God had placed within me on paper. I then had the first opportunity to really share the passion and the direction God has given me for this type of outreach. I have been burdened by this for over three years and the time is now right to begin.

I have shared this prompting in my heart with just a few people. I have known what God was stirring but I continued to wait on God. I could have started long ago, but I really needed to understand in my heart the condition of the teens and their hearts. I needed to get a proper perspective before taking the next step.

In Nehemiah, (2:11-16) we see that Nehemiah had not shared with anyone(with the exception of the king) what God had placed in his heart. He went and took a first hand look at the situation. He waited on God. He rode out alone to see te big picture.

We also understand that he did not even tell the people that were going to be doing the work what God was stirring in his heart. Why? I think it is possible that there would have been a number of people who would have said it couldn't be done. Others would have seen the size of the problem and not the size of God. Others would have told him how and what to do and when and where to start. Yet, Nehemiah wanted to hear straight from God.

I can tell you that it is not always easy to wait on God. Often times we tell other peole what we are going to do and then never follow through. Other times we think we should do something because it is a good idea. Other times people want to move forward at a much faster or slower pace than what God has intended.

I was talking with a young man today who shared that for the last two months he has felt the Lord leading him to start a Bible study for young men his age. He said, "I just can't get away from it." I know I need to do this." My encouragement was, if God is telling you to do it, do it!!!

What is it that God is stirring in your heart to do? Have you really prayed about it? If so, and you feel led, what are you going to do?

Nehemiah...shares his needs Part 5

2006-11-08T10:30:00.000-08:00

Ruth and I went out to supper last evening with a couple who are involved in native ministry. They have a summer camp for kids that has been reaching out for a number of years to native children. We had a great time together as we talked about how to be effective in ministry. We talked about things like patience and commitment and being steadfast in how we work with the native community.

I was able to share with them some of the things I felt the Lord was laying on my heart to be involved in, teen ministry and sports ministry topped the list. I shared about some of the teens that I have a burden for.

In turn they shared what the Lord was laying on their hearts. They talked about things like discipleship and follow up with kids from camp. They talked about their challenges and victories. They also shared what their needs were as they head into 2007.

One of the things we discovered is that we could really be able to support one another. We have gifts that could help them meet some of their needs, and they have gifts and insight that could be of benefit to us. I am so glad we took the time to share.

Nehemiah had to share with the king what God had laid on his heart. We can see that Nehemiah was fearful to talk with the king 2.2 We see the king ask Nehemiah a question, "What is it you want?" 2.4 We see Nehemiah pray to God one more time before he answered in 2.5

Nehemiah then proceeds to share his needs with the king. Here is what he shares : I need to go to Judah; I need to rebuild the wall; I need a letter for the governor so I can travel with safety; and I need another letter for Asaph so he can supply me with the necessary lumber.

The kings response is yes!!! Yes, I will supply what you need. Why? The answer is found in 2.8. The gracious hand of the Lord was upon me. It was not because Nehemiah was an eloquent speaker. It was not because Nehemiah used convincing arguments. It was not because Nehemiah was a man of tremendous charisma. It was because God's hand was upon him.

Nehemiah had prayed for God's favor with the king and with man. That is what he received. In fact we see in 2.9 that the king even went beyond what he asked by sending along army officers and the cavalry. Amazing!!! God is good!!!

Nehemiah...understands who God is Part 4

2006-11-07T07:33:00.000-08:00

Willim Carey is considered to be the father of modern missions. He is often quoted for saying, "Expect great things from God, attempt great things for God." Maybe Carey gained this insight from the study of God's Word and from looking at people like Nehemiah.

Nehemiah has been broken for the things of God and the conditon of the people and the city. He has been moved to tears and prayer and fasting. He has repented of the sins of the people. He knows what he needs to do next. Attempt something great. Rebuild the wall and the people.

Nehemiah has a clear understanding of the need for God to move if he is going to have any success. He is reminded of the power of God (Neh 1:10) He is aware that God is going to have to move others on his behalf. He is especially in need of God preparing the heart of the king before he approaches him.

Have you ever prayed a prayer like Nehemiah? I know I have. I have asked the Lord many times "please grant me favor with this person. Lord go before me." I have seen the favor of God level a mountain before I begin to cross over it. I have seen God make a way where there seemed to be no way. I have sensed God moving, preparing the way.

I recall during my time at Bible College I was sensing God stirring my heart. I sensed that the college needed to have an athletic program. I prayed and asked God to make a way and show me what to do. About three weeks later I got a call from the president of the college. He wanted to see me in his office. I was not sure why he wanted to see me, I thought my school bill was paid up.

As I sat down in his office he shared with me that he and others felt that there was a need for a commitment to athletics at the school. He shared that other faculty he had talked with suggested he talk with me about becoming the athletic director. He asked for my thoughts and he asked me to pray about it. I told him I alrerady had for the last three weeks and I accepted on the spot.

The message in this simple I believe. No matter what we attempt to do in life we need to seek God's heart, and once we know it to trust Him to go before us. Nehemiah prayed like this. Many others have prayed like this. We need to understand that if God is in something, no man can stop it. We need God's favor but first we need to know God's will.

Update on Susan...the prodigal

2006-11-07T07:22:00.000-08:00

I talked with Susan yesterday on the phone and she has checked herself out of detox after five days. She was feeling like a failure for not completing the program. She was very discouraged.

Earlier in the afternoon I was talking with her dad and he shared with me that Susan had left detox. He asked me, "Is there any hope for her?", the answer is yes. With God there is always hope. What seems impossible with man is possible with God.

While I was talking with Susan I reminded her that we were going to stand by her. I reminded her that God loved her. I encouraged her to look at the positives, that she was able to go without her "pills" for five days. She was able to go without smoking for five days.

Later this week we will be taking Susan to see the womens recovery home where she could go after completing the detox program. I am doing this to help her visualize what help and opportunity is out there for her. Please continue to lift Susan before the Lord. She needs a miracle in her life. God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all we could ask or think!!!

Nehemiah: man of prayer Part 3

2006-11-06T08:55:00.000-08:00

I had an interesting weekend. In fact it was pretty frustrating. I was not happy with the way I reacted to a situation I was faced with. I reacted first and I was wrong.

Before I could bring anything else before God this morning I had to repent of my attitiude. I had to confess my sinful attitude and allow God to move on my heart. Then I was ready to pray for the needs that are before me and others.

We see in Nehemiah that before he asked anything of God he repented of his sins and the sins of his father's house and the nation of Israel. Often we want God's blessing but we are not repentant.

Once he had a clean heart he reminded God of His promises. He knew God's promise was to bless His people, and bring them back home if they were faithful. He was standing in the gap for the exiled people.

I believe we need to have our hearts in the right place if we expect to see God move in power. In Psalm 51:17 reads "a broken and contrite spirit, O God you will not despise". There are many times when we see God move in our lives even when we are unfaithful, that is because He is faithful to keep His Word. BUT, I think we want to see God move in power, and that requires a broken and contrite spirit.

I was talking with a good friend on Friday who was sharing a powerful story of God's moving. He has been walking with God for some time but was still struggling with giving up smoking. He has been praying for a miracle. He has been surrendering more and more of himself to God over the last few months. On Wednesday the Lord delivered him from cigarettes instantly. He took away the craving, he was set free.

I am reminded of the following verse in Matt 17:28-30. "Come to me all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Nehemiah: broken for the things of God Part 2

2006-11-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

One of the first people I met in the gulf coast was a young lady at the Biloxi High school gymnasium, which was being used to house displaced people who had lost everything. As pastors/missionaries/counsellors we were invited to come and counsel and pray with the people.

As I listened to her story I was touched right to the core of my being. Here was a young lady, who had lost everything and had still not been able to call her family to let them know she had survived the storm, this was eight days after the storm. I took her parents phone number down and as soon as I could get to a place where my cell phone would work I called her parents to let them know she was alive and where they could meet her to take her home. They were so relieved to hear the good news.

I think Nehemiah experienced these same type of emotions. He was touched deep within when he heard the state of the city and the people. I believe his heart broke for the things that broke God's heart. He understood the people were living in disgrace and the city and its gates were broken and burned to the ground.

We see in 1.4 that Nehemiah sat and wept for days. He also fasted and prayed. I believe that as Nehemiah waited before the Lord that he was gripped with compassion and knew that any response he would be able to do, must be led by God. I think he knew the battle had to be fought on his knees because that is where battles are won and lost.

Whatever battle or challenge we face we need to bring before God. We need to discover the heart of God in any situation and then take action. I think it is easy to move into action to solve a problem and ask God to bless us as we react. Instead I think we need to seek God and then move as His spirit leads. I am reminded of the verse that says, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God."

What challenges do we face? How are we fighting the battle? Is it our wisdom or is it God's? Are we broken for the things that break God's heart?

Nehemiam...the caring person Part 1

2006-11-01T05:26:00.000-08:00

Nehemiah 1:2 talks of Nehemiah being in the citadel and having visitors come to talk and fellowship with him. Probably after some small talk (possibly not) Nehemiah wants to know what the situation is like in Jerusalem. He wants to have a first hand account of what is taking place. He wants to know about two things: how are the people doing and what kind of condition is Jerusalem in.

I remember going to the gulf coast right after Katrina hit. I had two questions in my mind. How are the people doing and second how much destrustion was there. How bad was it? I had all kinds of mental pictures of what it would look like. In order to know what it was really like I began to talk with others who were "on the ground".

One of the first persons we met upon flying into Mississippi was a pastor in Jackson, MS. We stayed at his house and he shared what he had seen and experienced on his trips to the coastal region. He shared some of the stories of the people he had met. That mental picture became clearer. We got to be a part of a prayer meeting that night and as we heard people praying it became more clear. The situation was critical.

I think as leaders we can follow Nehemiah's example in asking good questions and listening to what people will say to us. Sometimes we are quick to form opinions based on our limited understanding or heresay.

I continue to keep in touch with people on the ground in coastal MS, and AL. I just talked with a pastor who shared that the spiritual climate has dropped back to where it was pre Katrina. People have gone back to what is familiar. He also shared that the population of Bayou La Batre has dropped from 2700 pre Katrina to about 1700 post Katrina. What does this mean?

Many people either lost their homes and have not rebuilt or have become discouraged with lack of jobs and the slowness of rebuilding and have left. The people in these coastal communities continue to struggle to get back on their feet. They can't do it alone. They still need help.

That is also the message that Nehemiah received, the people are in rough shape and their communities remain in shambles. They need help.

Nehemiah..the study of leadership

2006-10-31T11:40:00.000-08:00

Well after much thought and prayer about what to share/teach on my blog I have settled on my favorite book of the Bible. I have read Nehemiah many, many times and I am always encouraged as I dig deeper and deeper into this book. There is so much truth for us to understand and apply.

I think that all of us have opportunites at some point in our lives to lead in one way or another. Maybe it is at: work, school, church, youth group, mens group, bible study, sports team, or in our family. I have read lots of books on leadership but I must say I have learned more from Nehemiah's example than from other sources.

Each day I am going to highlight a different characteristic of Nehemiah as we work through this book. If you are on this site and want to leave thoughts or feedback I would love to hear from you. Just click on the comments tab at the end of each blog entry and say what you would like. I would love to have your input.

See you tomorrow.

God's timing

2006-10-31T11:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday afternoon we met again with Susan, the lady who called me last week. She had some good news to share. She had taken the initiative and called our local detox and they were readmitting her this morning, Tuesday.

We did some basic counseling and she was able to express her greatest concerns. Outside of the emotional challenges and physical challenges she would be facing as she entered detox, her greatest need was for people to pray for her as she entered rehab. I assured her I would have people praying for her physical, emotional and spiritual needs.

This morning I was able to meet her at detox as she checked herself in. She had a tremendous peace that I had not seen in her our previous two meetings. I had printed out some scripture for her to take in with her that talked about God's peace, presence and love for her. I also shared the words found in Joshua to be "strong and courageous."

These next 72 hours are crucial for Susan. She is not allowed to make phone calls until that time to let others know how she is doing. It is her and God. This will be a defining moment in her life. Please join with me in praying for this prodigal daughter as she continues her journey to freedom and life.

Prodigal series conclusion Part 15

2006-10-30T05:23:00.000-08:00

What does a prodigal look like? You and I.
How old are they? Any age.
What economic background do they come from? Rich, poor and in between.
What do their families look like? Christain and non Christian.
In other words we pass by prodigals every day.

I was talking with a lady yesterday about her daughter who is so far from God. She is searching for answers but looking in all the wrong places. My advice, love her unconditionally, just like the father.

I think the challenge for many of us, is to love the prodigal unconditionally and at the same time not condone the action. I may be wrong but I think that if we love the person the way we need to and live a life that honors God, the prodigal will know that their action is not condoned.

I feel like we need to consistently bring the prodigals before the Lord and let Him bring the conviction. Most often when we approach the prodigal and confront them with their action they do not feel conviction but condemnation. This is not our heart but it is what is felt.

I have a good friend who has consistently messed up for the four years I have known him. He has a heart to serve God and certainly good intentions. He has called me often over these years and I have tried to listen and offer advice as he asks for it. I may have had opinions about things over the years but unless he has asked for my input, I have not offered it. Instead I have tried to encourage him and listen.

Yesterday I was talking with him and he shared that he has drawn the line. He knows he needs to stop his destructive behavior and he is going to. No more running, no more pretending, just stopping.

He thanked me for my friendship over the years. He shared that he never felt condemned when we talked and that he knew he could always share what was going on in his life. I am excited for what God has been doing in his life and what wonderful things God has planned. Another prodigal is on his way home.

If you are praying for a prodigal in your life lets believe together for a miracle of God.

Tomorrow I am going to start a new series. I hope you will check it out.

Prodigal calling

2006-10-28T06:52:00.000-07:00

It is amazing God and His timing. On Thursday morning just after my last posting on the Prodigal series I received a phone call. It was from a lady who had found the COI phone number in the phonebook and decided to call.
She has been dealing with addiction issues for over thirty years and was calling to find someone that could help. After a heartfelt talk we were able to meet with her yesterday. Myself and our youth pastors wife, Jerri, spent two hours ministering to this lady. She was so honest and she indicated she felt that she could safely share with us what was going on in her life and the extreme struggle with addiction.

She had so many questions for us, not only were we able to counsel with her but we were also able to answer many of her spiritual questions. She had made a decision for Christ three months ago but since that time had fallen deeper and deeper into despair and addiction. It was wonderful to share and pray with her. We will continue to meet with her and help to get her into a detox program and from there into a Christian recovery program.

I am not at liberty to share her name but please pray for her. The Lord knows who you are praying for.

A reason to celebrate Part 14

2006-10-26T05:31:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been in a restaurant and out of nowhere the singing starts. "Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear_________, happy birthday to you." Usually when the singing starts we try to figure out whose birthday it is because we want to see who is being recognized. Those times often bring a smile to my face as I see joy in the people who have gathered to celebrate.

After the father dispelled the lie the son was believing it was now time to remind the son why the celebration was being held. It was because "this brother of yours was dead and is alive again, he was lost and is found."

When I was in Czech Republic as a missionary I had a moment that stands out that I will never forget. It wasn't that I saw a dead person come to life physically. I never saw a person who was physically lost get found (though I did witness many lost spiritually get found). What I did witness was a man who was blind physically who could now see by a miracle of God.

I remember Alex receiving his miracle of restored eyesight and the uncontainable joy he could not wait to share with his classmates at our MTS school. He was healed during a prayer time at about midnight and all of the other students were already asleep in the dorm. He asked permission to go and share what had happened right away. He ran across the parking lot into the building and exclaimed, "I can see, I can see"

As the other students woke up to Alex's excitement a celebration broke out. People had a hard time getting back to sleep. All of us were changed as we recognized the power of God. The next day we threw a celebration party and what a great time we had.

That is how I best understand the celebration that was held on behalf of the prodigal who had returned home to the Father. I feel that it is the same celebration that happens whenever a prodigal returns home, at least in the heavenly realm.

I may be wrong but I think we need to have celebrations when people come into a relationship with Christ. We need to get excited about seeing the lost come home. As important, is getting excited about going to share with those who are away from home. What if we were to throw a party each time a sinner came home. I think that the church could get pretty excited, or would they.

Sometimes we act more like the older brother and are not all that excited to welcome into our churches new believers or the prodigals. We don't know what to do with them. We don't know how to include them in the body. But we must!!!

Believing the lie Part 13

2006-10-25T11:21:00.000-07:00

"My son, the father said, 'you are always with me and everything I have is yours.' (15.31) This is in contrast to the son saying "you never gave me anything."(5.29)

What a reminder for us. "Everything I have is yours." Christ has given it all to us. We just need to accept it. Love is mine. Peace is mine. Freedom is mine. Forgivness is mine. I have to believe it and receive it. If we know the truth,the truth will set us free.

Understanding the truth about God and his heart is essential. He is always with us. He never walks away from us. Why then do we believe the lies? What lies are we accepting as truth?

Here are some common lies we accept as truth: If we walk with God we will never go through trials. Lie!!! God doesn't care about me. Lie!!! I could never be forgiven for doing( you fill in the blank) Lie!!! Hell does not exist. Lie!!! All roads lead to God. Lie!!! If I am a good person and give to the poor I will go to heaven. Lie!!!

In reality there is truth. All people will go through trials. God does care. God does forgive us when we ask. Hell is real. There is one way to God, through Christ. A relationship with Christ and experiencing his forgiveness is the way to heaven.

We need to listen to the father and his Words. His Words are true!!! Don't believe the lies!!!

Heart of the other brother Part 12

2006-10-24T06:04:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about what to say about the older brother and there is certainly many things that can be said about him. Some would say he was bitter, angry, jealous, mean or self centered just to name a few. But has the son always been like this, I do not think so.

I choose to use another word to describe the son. Hurt.

Often when we look at other people and how they act or react we want to look at the action. I think it is much more important to look at what is happening under the surface that causes the reaction. What has caused the person to react in this way.

I think the older son offers some insight, especially if we really listen to what he says. He uses the word Look!(15.29), but I think he was really in his heart saying LISTEN! Here are his points: 1) I have been working hard for you
2) I never disobeyed you (I guess he is now though)
3) I don't feel like you've ever done anything special for me
4) I have not wasted everything
5) I deserve to be rewarded too.

I think the prodigals brother gets a bad rap, but isn't he reacting like most people do. I know of Christians who have expressed the same sentiments to God but maybe we just use different words. When we are hurt we react. In the heat of the moment we say things we wish we hadn't. The wonderful truth is that I can tell God exactly how I feel and He does not judge me for it. He would rather have me share than remain silent.

The reality is that God does listen to us. He hears what we say. He understands our frustration. He is forgiving. He does reward us for our faithfulness. He is patient with us.

ALIVE!!! Part 11

2006-10-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

A good friend has shared with me that when he was in the drug culture he was always seeking a new high. He did everything he could to score the next hit so he could feel that euphoria. He says that if he knew years ago, the "high" he now experiences from a relationship with God, he would have saved himself much grief and heartache. What he thought was living in fact brought him death. Today he is ALIVE!!!

ALIVE!!! ALIVE!!!

The prodigal returns home and is welcomed by his father. He is given the royal treatment. He is loved, accepted and brought into a place of peace and safety. Then his father declares a feast because his son "who was once dead is now alive."

The same power that brought life to Christ after he died for us, is the same power that brings life into the prodigal. He asked for forgiveness and it was done. He was now alive.

I feel like the son was dead emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. His life away from the father had caused him to live a life that was just an existance, it was not really living.

Many people complain about Christianity because it has so many "rules". They say I just want my freedom. Isn't it sad that so many want their freedom but it leads to bondage and death. Those who turn to Christ and what He desires for us actually find freedom and life.

Grace... Part 10

2006-10-20T06:36:00.000-07:00

The son has practiced the words, remember in (v. 18) he has rehearsed what he is going to say: "Father I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son: make me like one of your hired hands."

Now the time has come and he stands before his father and here are his words (v. 21): "Father I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son." He was not even able to get all the words out before his father has a different plan. It is not to make him like one of the hired hands, but to restore him as His son.

That is grace!!! Grace treats us in a way that we do not deserve to be treated. Grace is God offering us forgiveness even when we do not deserve it. Grace is hard to understand fully but wonderful to receive.

I believe that there are many people who feel that if they are going to start a relationship with Christ that they need to get "all cleaned up" first. Others who have had a relationship with Christ and walked away from Him feel that way as well. They need to understand grace and the heart of the Father. He accepts them just the way they are. He loves them. He wants them to come home first and then they can get cleaned up.

It is God's work to clean people up and make them aware of what they need to work on. It is our work to show people how to return to the Father. They will find peace and rest when they meet Grace.

The compassionate father Part 9

2006-10-19T05:20:00.000-07:00

"While he(the son) was a long way off his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him, he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him." Luke 15:20

WOW!!! Is this really how our heavenly Father feels about us? Does he really have unconditional love? The answer is yes and yes!!!

Here is a son that took his inheritance, blew it all, had not made any effort to contact his father and yet he is welcomed home. In fact he is received with open arms before he even makes it all the way home.

I think there are times when we will welcome the prodigal home if they show obvious remorse for their actions, if they prove they have changed completely, if they guarantee they will never hurt us again, if they repay us for all the hurt they have caused us. Thank goodness this is not the heart of the heavenly Father.

What is the definition of compassion? Compassion is a sense of shared suffering, most often combined with a desire to alleviate or reduce the suffering.

As family or friends of prodigals we need to have that sense of shared suffering. One of the challenges prodigals feel is that they are all alone and no one can understand their broken heart, no one will help them work their way through the process of healing, and that they will not be forgiven. As Christians we have the privilege of listening, loving and leading people back to fellowship with Christ and families.

It is very encouraging to me to now that my heavenly father is so compassionate towards his children. He never stops loving those who serve Him and even those who don't. He wants that close relationship for all His creation. If you are the prodigal, God loves you!!! His message is "Come home, you are welcome here."

Self dialogue Part 8

2006-10-18T06:22:00.000-07:00

After our family had returned from Czech Republic, I had a real struggle. I was torn between being in Canada and wanting to return to Czech to finish off some ministry commitments I had made. For a month, I would toss back and forth whether or not I was to return to Czech.

This battle raged in my mind and my heart for that month. My family thought I should stay home, and they were right, though I was unsure. I ended up booking a flight to Prague via Montreal. As the day approached for me to fly to Czech I became more insecure about going and had a mental battle brewing. One time of the day I knew what I needed to do and the next I was unsure.

Saturday came and I found myself on the flight to Montreal. As I was taxiing down the runway I knew I was making the wrong decision. I tried to find a peace that would allow me to contine on my way to Prague, but I could not find that peace. Whenever I thought about returning home I had peace,whenever my thoughts turned to following my own desires I was confused and unsettled. I finally made the decision to land in Montreal and then get the first flight home. I needed to do the right thing.

I can tell you that even after making the right decision my thoughts turned to questions like: What will the people in Czech think? What will my leaders think? Am I going to look weak by doing this? How could I be so stupid as to get on the flight to start with? Why didn't I listen to my family? and on it went. But in the midst of the questions at least I had peace.

I think the prodigal son had that inner dialogue as well. You know the wheel that keeps spinning in our heads that speaks to us. The dialogue we often do not share with others. I think for the prodigal son there must have been times on his long journey home where he rehearsed over and over what he would say, whether he would be accepted back, what people would say, and what if people knew how he wasted everything and so on.

For prodigals to return home to the father they need to understand that they will not be harassed, condemned, belittled or mocked. They need to be loved, accepted, encouraged and understood. After all they are humans just like you and I. We all make mistakes, we all have choices we wish we could change and we are all in need of being loved, accepted and welcomed home.

Coming to his senses Part 7

2006-10-16T11:56:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been sound asleep and then the alarm wakes you from a deep sleep? You shake your head and can't believe that it is time to wake up and get moving. I remember being in a hotel room while I was in the gulf coast and had a wakeup call for 4:00 am in order to catch my flight. I had so many things going through my head as I tried to go to sleep. I wanted to fall asleep but it was tough. Then it seemed I had just fallen asleep when the wake up call came from the hotel operator.

Luke 15:17 talks about a wake up call for the son. It says 'When he came to his senses..." I know that there comes a time in our life where we can do the same things day in and day out, we just go through the motions and then we have a wake up call. Sometimes we have the "lightbulb" moment where we can see things from a new perspective. Sometimes someone says something to us which catches us off guard.

Often like the prodigal son, a person realizes their desperate need and asks oneself some serious questions and they realize the gravity of their situation. He makes the statement:" How many of my fathers hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death!"
I think there are other ways prodigals make their statement. Maybe it goes something like this: Why did I smoke that first joint?... Why did I take that first drink?... Didn't he say he loved me?... I didn't think my wife would ever find out about my affair!... I can't believe I was so stupid to trust her!... I didn't think she would get pregnant!... or you can fill in the statement.

At times life jolts people out of their fantasy world and into the reality world. They have to come to that place of realizing the desperateness of their situation. They can't keep running. They need to understand they are in need. They need to find a place of rest. They need to be able to get back on their feet. The need love and acceptance. And that is what the son is hoping to find as he sets out on the long journey home. Do you know any people who are in any these situations? Are we part of the solution?

Tomorrow I am going to speculate on what that journey home might have been like.

A deep longing in the heart Part 6

2006-10-16T06:21:00.000-07:00

Deion Sanders wins the Super Bowl. Later that week he buys a $275,000 Lamborghini to celebrate, yet he is still not happy. Here is what he says in his testimony, "I hadn't even driven a mile before I realized, No, Thats not it. Thats not what I'm looking for. Its got to be something else, I'm so hungry."

Deion then goes on to share that he knew the Lord was calling him. He tried running from God. He tried everything, parties, women, buying expensive things. But he had no peace, no joy just emptiness inside. His conclusion was, " I could see that nothing could possibly satisfy the hunger that was deep inside of me." Deion then made a decision to follow Christ.

Doesn't this sound like the prodigal son. In Luke 15:15 we see the son in great need. He went and hired himself out and he ended up going to feed pigs. This was the ultimate low for a Jew. To go and work with the worst of the unclean animals. Isn't this human nature to turn to many other things before returning to the Father. I think we all know people who have tried everything they can think of before heading home.

Luke 15:16 says that "the prodigal had a longing in his stomach to eat the pods that pigs were given but no one gave him anything." I think the son was hungry, but not just for physical food. I believe that he had a hunger deep inside of him. The reality was that even if he could have eaten a couple of pods it would have been a temporary fix. The "bandaid over the bullet hole." He would not have been satisfied. There was to be only one answer that would work. Return home to the Father.

The more I work with people I see that they try to fill that empty, lonely place in their lives with things other than God. We could all make a list of some of those things. I feel if people really were to be open and talk about that deep hunger that is within, their needs would include some of the following: love, joy, peace, hope and forgiveness.

Let us continue to try and understand the heart of the prodigal and help the prodigals to make their way home. They will receive, love, joy, peace, hope and forgiveness from the heavenly father. Will they receive it from us or will they feel condemnation?

Now I have it...now I don't Part 5

2006-10-13T11:05:00.000-07:00

The son got what he asked for. His inheritance was given to him because of the generosity of the Father. Off the son goes. He is really going to live now. No more rules. No more hard work. It is time to party and live it up. It is time to really live. At least that is what he had in mind in his short sited view. Luke 5:13

There are times when people want to get far away from God, their parents, responsibilty, the guidance of others and just do their own thing. That is what this son did. He set off for a distant country. Out of sight, out of mind...or so he thought. But we know he never left the mind of the father.

He was having the time of his life..for a while. He had all he needed to do his thing...for a while. He was the life of the party...for a while. He was the man...or was he.

We are not sure how long he was able to sustain this lifestyle but eventually reality set in. Luke 5:14 tells us about the famine, the money was long gone, and he was in need. I think the son had some questions he was asking himself: Where were all the friends I had partied with? Where were the girls who I had been sleeping with? Where has all my money gone? How could I have had so much and now I have so little? How am I going to make it?

I think all of us who have wandered away from God have had lots of questions go through our mind. Often those questions lead to self condemnation, guilt, fear and hopelessness.

Maybe we need to understand that we are human and that there truly is hope and peace and forgiveness. Even when everything is gone and all has been stripped away, God is still there. He is wanting to hear from us. He wants us to tell him exactly how we feel. His heart breaks for his lost children, even more than our earthly fathers.

There are words to a song, "I Need You More" by Integrity Musci and Hosanna records which declare these words to God:
I need you more, more that yesterday, I need you more, more than words can say, I need you more than ever before, I need you now, I need you now."
Let this be your and my heartcry.

The heart of the Father Part 4

2006-10-13T05:49:00.000-07:00

What is our heavenly Father like, what is His heart for His children? I think there are many things that can be said from this parable. I want to focus on a couple of characteristics I believe we can see.
Luke 5:12."He divided the property between them"... We do not know the full discussion that was had on the topic of giving the young son his "entitlement" but we can speculate on what that conversation was like. I feel I can do that because I can see from other scripture what God's heart is. Here are a couple of scriptures, John 3:17, "God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world" and Luke 19:10, " For the Son of Man came to seek and save the lost."

I believe that the Father in this parable did not have a condemning spirit. He loved His son. He knew that his son was probably going to blow everything. He knew his son was demanding and self centered. He knew his son would make mistakes. He also knew that he could not dictate everything that his son would do and he needed to allow him to have a free will and the freedom to choose.

Would the son have ever felt he could return home if he knew he would be condemned for what he was about to do? Are we going to allow others to make mistakes and maybe blow everything in their lives? If they do are we going to be there to provide them with a safe place to land? These are not easy things to do but I feel it does represent the heart of God.

As Christians we are to be the hands and feet of Christ. That means we need to have the heart of God. That heart should include one of forgiveness. We should not have a condemning spirit or attitude. We need to be praying for those who are away from the Father and helping where possible to seek out those who are lost and help them find their way back home. Home to the Father's arms.

Tomorrow...desperate actions.

The heart of the son Part 3

2006-10-12T07:43:00.000-07:00

"Father give me my share of the estate". These are the words that introduce us to the young son in Luke 15:11-12. He sounds like: a demanding person who thinks that he has a right to things; the world owes him something; and he wants it now.

I think all of us have had that mindset from time mto time. Many times I have heard people telling God that they have rights. They have the right to drive a fancy car, they have the right to blow hundreds of dollars at the local bar, they have the right to have an adulterous affair... and on and on it goes.

I recently talked with a young man who shared that when he turned nineteen, it was his chance to go out and really live. He was now old enough to legally drink and he went out and got plastered. He bought drinks for everyone and ran up a tremendous bill. He thought that was what he had been denied and now he was entitled to party. He wanted that freedom now. Freedom came with a cost.

When I was a teenager and then as a young adult I often thought that I knew more than my parents or others in authority over me. I did things others said were not in my best interest, but afterall I knew best. The truth is that I have discovered the following: "The older I get the more I know I don't know."

I am not sure if this properly describes the young son but I think I might be close. I think he may have become the kind of person others did not really want to be around. The kind of person that is focused on me and what I want. Those are sometimes the toughest people to love.

Can you identify with this person? Are you this person? How do you and I love the "prodigals" in our lives? How do our churches create and environment where the prodigals are loved and accepted?

I think the answer to those last two questions is provided when we consider the heart of the father. I will talk about that tomorrow.

Am I lost? Part 2

2006-10-11T06:10:00.000-07:00

When I was a teenager about age 17 or so, I went to church one evening and the atmosphere was different. A phone call had just come in to the church which indicated that one of the children in our church, Sarah age 8, was lost in the woods about 20 miles from the city. They asked for anyone who could come and join the search party to do so.

When we arrived on the scene there were many people getting instruction on how to conduct the search. There were also skilled people who were part of search and rescue and a dive team to check in the lake. They did not leave any rock unturned. The search was very thorough and lasted through the night. Each time a search team arrived back at the base the story was the same. No trace of Sarah at all.

I remember the raw emotions of the family as they dealt with this tragedy. The fear, the sadness and the hurt. I also remember the love of the parents and the hope and expectancy that Sarah would be found.

Almost 24 hours after Sarah disappeared she was found by a search team along an old dirt path. She had made freinds with some of the animals overnight and they kept her calm. I remember hearing the rumors and then the truth that Sarah was indeed found.

Everyone had the question, "how did she get lost?' She became lost as she headed just into the woods to pick flowers for her grandparents. She got turned around and walked away from their home and walked deeper into the woods.

I think this may be the same way that we get spiritually lost. We have good intentions and then we find ourselves one step further away from where we know we need to be. We then continue to take more steps that lead us away from that place of safety and God's open arms.

As Christians we need to be a part of the "search committee". There are people who are lost and we can play a part in helping that person find their way home to the loving Father. It takes an investment on our part.

The prodigal (cat) son Part 1

2006-10-10T06:36:00.000-07:00

Recently our pastor preached a month long series on the prodigal son. It was a great month to really think about this important part of scripture. To me it represents the heart of the message of the gospel, and the heart of Christ. It is the message I want to share with others.

I have decided to try something new with my blog, in addition to my regular postings. I hope that it will be something that you and I can invite other people to read and help them on their journey.

Eleven days ago our cat, Chip, left home for what seems to be his fall time, "get away from home." I think it is the fourth time he as done this, twice in the spring and twice in the fall. But this time it seemed different. Usually he goes away for a week and then shows up at the door, hungry and tired. Give him a day or so and he is right back to normal. You know how cats are.

While he was away this time for his extended trip (he had never been gone this long) I wondered if he would ever come back. Now I am not a cat lover, but I will confess each morning I got up and looked on the back deck to see if Chip had come home. Every morning I looked I thought well maybe this will be the time he never comes back.

Well at 5:00 this morning my prayers were answered, not really!!! I woke to hear a cat crying outside. I turned on the light and there he was, Chip had made the journey home. After 11 days away, in walks Chip. Of course you know how it works the first thing Chip does is run and jump into my arms and purr. Uh... no... the first thing Chip does is head for the food dish and the water. I guess cats are alot like people sometimes.

Chip then spent the next 30 minutes running from his food to our room to purr and get some TLC. He was not sure what he should do now. I think he was so worn out from being on the run, that he was confused as to what he should do and how he should act.

We do have other cats and you can guess their reaction. They did exactly what the brother did in the story of the prodigal. They hissed at Chip, they tried to swat him. They were not excited that the prodigal had returned. It was quite the scene at 5:30 in the morning.

In some ways Chip's saga is like the prodigal son. He left and he came back, unsure how he should act and looking for a soft place to land. A place where he would be accepted back with open arms. This is the message of the prodigal son. It is certainly not one of judgement or accusation, it is one of grace.

The message I want to share over the next few posts is one of grace. Maybe no one will read it and it will just be me sharing some thoughts, but I believe it will help me to better understand the heart of my heavenly father. His arms are wide open.

Please invite others to check out my blog, maybe someone will benefit from it.

Blessed to be a missionary

2006-10-06T10:41:00.000-07:00

Why am I involved in short term mission work and ministry? Here are two reasons and they come from kind words shared with me by email over the last week.

1. As a result of our trip to Canada, I have two students going into the ministry (missions) even neater than that, they are dating and feel God is preparing them to partner for life, as missionaries. Just thought you would like to know because they both claim that the mission trip to Canada is what opened their hearts to hear from God. (Billy, youth pastor from Mississippi)

2. I have been forever changed due to God working in my life during our Mission trip in Canada. Scott was a wonderful blessing to us and our youth group. (Marcie, adult sponsor from Virginia)

Not only do the teams impact the areas they minister, but I have the opportunity to directly impact the people coming to do ministry. It is a platform God has granted to me.

Amish response

2006-10-05T08:07:00.000-07:00

Actions speak louder than words!!!Putting what we say and do in action is sometimes hard to do.

The Amish community has certainly been a shining light in the midst of their tragedy. They have represented the teaching of Christ through their example of forgiveness. I believe we can all learn something from their example.

I think as Christians we are guilty of unforgiveness from time to time. I think that it comes more naturally than offering forgiveness to others who have offended us.

If you watch the media or read stories on the internet you can see that revenge is more common than forgiveness. If you talk to people who have been hurt they often talk about hoping that person " gets what they deserve." But is this right? I don't think so.

Jesus set the example for us. He taught us to forgive. Period. Not when it is convenient. Not when we feel like it. Not if the other person apologizes first. Simply to forgive.

Let us examine our hearts and see if we have unforgiveness. If we do, lets follow the example of Christ, (and the Amish folks) and fogive those who have offended or hurt us.

Be a grace giver!!!!

High school shootings..God help us

2006-10-02T12:14:00.000-07:00

I am so saddened by what I see happening in our schools, and how they have become a shooting ground for disillusioned teens as well as adults. This brothers and sisters is unacceptable. Our children should not be threatened in an environment of what should be safety and learning.
I have a couple of observations.

One is that we need to be praying for our schools and its students and staff. This is a battle that needs to be won. They may have tried to remove God and prayer from our schools but they cannot stop us from praying over our schools.

The killings and shootings in schools is much like terrorism and suicide bombers. How many people are living in fear to return and enter the doors of their school? How many parents live in fear to send their kids off to school each day? How many school teachers and administrators are concerned about their well being each day as they go to work to train the upcoming generations?

It seems like those who are doing the shootings are willing and often times eager to "go down during their selfish acts." Isn't this premeditated murder and self murder?

There are so many people in the world that need help. I know you and I cant do everything but we need to get involved.

God is good. He is the answer. We are His hands and feet!!!

Getting to really know people

2006-09-28T05:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I watched the story of Terrell Owens unfold and the story of his attempted suicide which was proven to be untrue. There were alot of things said about Terrelll from alot of people, some bad some good.
It was interesting to watch a video that was shown of him in a recent interview. He was asked the question, "What do you want people to know about Terrell Owens?" His response was very telling.
He shared that many people think they know him but they really do not. He shared that they think they know him because of the image the media portrays of him as T.O. but that is just an image. He talked about the fact that only 2 or 3 people really know Terrell Owens, the person.
As I listened about his comments, I had the following thought. How many people in our lives do we actually take the time to really get to know. How often do we form opinions of someone based on what we have heard about them or their situations. I think we are often too busy to really get to know someone. I think we can often be afraid ourselves to be real with other people.
In the morning yesterday I went out and did some "street evangelism" and met a young man sitting on a bench. Mike was a nice guy , 45 years old. He had lost his job, had no money and was very honest. He shared how he was feeling and how tough life was. I had the opportunity to not only listen to him but to also share Christ with him. One of the most refreshing things that I found in talking with Mike was his willingness to share how he was doing.
During our conversation I asked Mike a question, "during the last two months that you have been out of work and feeling so alone, how many people have stopped and sat down and talked with you?". He shared that only one other person had done so. He then shared how his self esteem was so low because he was not working and how no one seemed to take the time to talk with him. Isn't that sad?
I challenge you and I to open our eyes and look around. There are people that are desperate to talk with "real people". Not people who always want to give the appearance of having it all together, real people. Take the time to get to know someone. Today.