God, put it in my heart...

The average Joe, Nehemiah, has returned from Persia (Babylon) to rebuild the walls of the city. Despite great odds and few people, he mustered their best strength and even got the fat-cat nobles to pitch in and they finished the job in record time. Chapter 7 of Nehemiah's life, says that they not only rebuilt the walls but also hung the gates! Which means that they were a protected city again. There was some confidence there, among the people. The wall meant security. It meant status. No longer was the city they loved exposed. No longer could any neighboring town or people simple walk through or over the wall and kill or take captives. This was BIG! Having the wall up was like getting the deluxe ADT security package for your home! They had done it! They had withstood the ridicule and those who were trying to discourage them and they had completed the job.
Now it was time to sit back and relax. To rest a bit and enjoy their security and comfort. Look, less than 50,000 people had finished this huge undertaking, it was time to party! To rest. To marvel at what they had done.
But not for Nehemiah. Verses 4 and 5 say that Nehemiah looked around and saw that the houses had not been rebuilt yet. And that God "put it into my heart to..." well, to do something about it. So Nehemiah set out to begin the process of counting and registering the people so they could be given space and protection within the city.
Here's my prayer today. God, it is easy to sit back and relax and take it easy, especially after a big job or a completed task... but I ask you to "put into my heart" the next thing that needs to be done. The next mountain that needs to be moved. The next task that's been left undone. Don't let me relax or pat myself on the back... there is more to do. There is always more to do... and I want to do it. Put it into my heart - what Your plan is. And then give me the strength and ability to finish it.

Steps 1 and 2.

When I was taking classes for my psych degree the thing we heard over and over was that the first key to success in treating someone with an emotional issue (that was serious enough) was therapy but the second key was also very important (kind of like that second key in the movies that does everything from arm the torpedoes to start the super large drill that is aimed at the center of the earth) and went right along with the first, which in this case was drugs. The mantra was always therapy and drugs (I think they called it "medication"). I was reading in Nehemiah this morning and I saw a one/two punch just like I learned in school. But what I also noticed is that most of us forget the second part.
Nehemiah has brought back to Jerusalem a group of people and has mustered the strength of those already there and they have begun to rebuild the walls and gates of the City, an incredibly huge undertaking. When they are busy building the people around them begin to plot how they might stop the Jews from rebuilding and once again becoming a power nation in the region. Well, Nehemiah learns of their plans and devises this two step process, here's how it happened, "They all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and stir up trouble against it. But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat" (Neh 4:8,9).
Did you see it? How were they going to deal with the threat of their neighbors? First they prayed (good idea right?!). And then they Posted a guard. One. Two.
For many of us when we feel attacked by others, or sin (temptation) or the prospect of failure we do only one of the two steps. Being very spiritual you may pray to God, which is great, unless you just go, "well I prayed, get to work God!" For others you may do really good at posting the guard (trying to handle it on your own) but you neglect to pray. When dealing with the issues that you and I face every day we need to employ both of these steps! We need to pray to our God who WILL hear and WILL act but we also need to post a guard, to stand watch, to tighten up security so that we can do our part as well.
Therapy and Drugs. Pray and stand guard.
Today God, while I rely on You to fight for me and meet my needs, help me also to get off my butt and get involved!

Simple - Profound

So I'm reading today in Nehemiah chapter 2 and in the midst of this great story one little statement jumped out at me. Nehemiah is the cup bearer to the king of Persia (formerly Babylon) which was a pretty big deal. Anyway, the king sees how depressed Nehemiah is and asks essentially, "what will make you feel better?"
And then it comes, Nehemiah writes of himself, "Then I prayed to the God of Israel, and answered the king..."

There it is. I prayed to the God of heaven. Simple. Something we take for granted everyday. I pray to the God of heaven. Profound. The God of heaven. The One who created and sustains life. The One who keeps the planets from falling out of space. The One who has the hairs on my bald head (shaved) numbered. AND the subsequent end is this... the God of Heaven listens.

Happy praying, happy Friday!!!!

First Day of School - God IS in control

Good morning, haven't woken Trent up yet. Reading in Ezra Chapters 7-8 this morning.

Ezra said something interesting to me. God had moved the heart of the king, Artaxerxes and all his officials to not only send Ezra and whoever wanted to go with him back to Jerusalem, but they freely gave gifts of gold, silver and bronze both from the treasury of Babylon and as individuals. The hand of God was certainly on them to do this, no doubt.
But as Ezra and the people were camping three days before setting out on this long journey they fasted and prayed that they would have safe journey for themselves and their children. Cool. Understand that, praying before a trip or something for protection, good idea. But the reason they were doing that was because Ezra said he did not feel right asking the king for soldiers or horsemen to accompany them since he had told the king that, "The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him, but his great anger is against all who forsake him."
Ezra didn't want to ask for soldiers because he had already told the king that God was on his side. He didn't want to be two-faced. He didn't want to have faith in God and yet rely on someone else.

Today, Father, may my strength and faith be in You and You alone. Because it is only You and always You who can offer any real protection. Everything else is false hope. But You alone provide.

...only more frustrated.

So the family all came into the living room last night to watch that 20/20 show about the autistic girl who can communicate by typing, has a blog and is writing a book about autism.  It was an incredible story and we were all very moved by what she typed.  When she typed about being trapped in her body, not being able to control her body, etc. it was almost more than I could take.

We are very happy for this family and the new-found relationship (with communication!) between them all... wait for it...

But.  

Shows like that only make us hurt more.  Andi and I so desperately want to talk to Trent, to know what is hurting him (while he bangs on the walls, bites himself till he nearly bleeds, screams, jumps off the furniture and pounds his fists on the floor), we would love to know what he is thinking, if he is hungry or has a stomach ache.  But we get nothing except more banging, more biting.

Does he feel trapped in his body like she does?  Does he want to be "normal" like she does?  Does he really have any feelings for us and what we do for him like she does?

The sad truth is that for every autistic child who finds a way to break free and communicate there are thousands, maybe tens of thousands who are still trapped.

So I sat here on the couch (still am) with Trent this morning.  Looking into his eyes and trying to see something, anything that would give me a clue to how he feels.  I even busted out the laptop and tried desperately to get him to type something to me (he is a very good typist) even offering him goodies if he did... nothing.  Well, I take that back, he typed "lion" several times and then deleted it.  (yes, we know there is something significant about a lion to him but we don't know what it is... because he can't tell us.)  

While we are happy for that family on tv last night it only highlights the fact that we still live with a child that we really don't know, can't figure out, and live in fear that he feels the same way that girl on 20/20 felt.  If it would do any good I would just cry as he sits here next to me rocking back and forth saying "McDonald's Madagascar Escape to Africa Marty" (and every other character from their happy meal toy line as well as ...Kung-Fu Panda TyLong and all the others).  

There is something going on in that mind of his, that incredible, photographic mind... I would so love to know what it is.   But my prayers fall to the ground, no answer comes... and then he scoots closer to me and puts his hand on mine.  

Good enough for now...

Thank You Lord for Trent, someday, I'd like to meet him.

Sounds like a country song...

So I was reading in 2 Chronicles 21 today about a king named Jehoram. He was a son of Jehoshaphat (good name for your next son!) and was a pretty rotten dude. The first thing he did when he claimed power over his father's kingdom was put his brothers and some other "princes" to death. Not a very nice guy.
Anyway, in verse 20 the dude dies and that is the interesting part that got me thinking. Here's how it reads, "Jehoram was thirty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eight years. He passed away, to no one's regret, and was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings." There, how's that for an epitaph? He was this old. He reigned this long. He died, and no one cared.
Wow! A king! and there was no regret.
I don't know about you but when I die I would like a little regret showed on my behalf. Someone to go, "huh, that guy did some things that were pretty cool." But I guess if that is my desire, if I want a bit of a legacy, then I ought to pay attention to what I do while I'm alive.
Jehoram apparently forgot this. The beginning of the chapter says that he walked in the ways of Ahab (a bad guy who did stuff just to hack God off) and didn't pay attention to the God of his father David.
Well, here's the moral for me. If I want someone to pay attention to you when you die you might want to do some things while you're ALIVE that would give someone reason to regret your death. And you might want to start with faith. Follow God in your life and you will leave a legacy of faith, hope, peace, joy, security, love and grace. And you will certainly be remembered for those!
Here's to a life worth remembering!

Where does it all come from?

1 chronicles 29:14-19 14"But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand. 15We are aliens and strangers in your sight, as were all our forefathers. Our days on earth are like a shadow, without hope. 16O LORD our God, as for all this abundance that we have provided for building you a temple for your Holy Name, it comes from your hand, and all of it belongs to you. 17I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these things have I given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you. 18O LORD, God of our fathers Abraham, Isaac and Israel, keep this desire in the hearts of your people forever, and keep their hearts loyal to you. 19And give my son Solomon the wholehearted devotion to keep your commands, requirements and decrees and to do everything to build the palatial structure for which I have provided."

Samuel had just finished recording all that the leaders of Israel had given toward the temple of the Lord when David made this statement. What I think is so cool about this section of Scripture is that David recognizes his position and the position of his people before God. The first sentence, "who am I and who are my people, that we should be ABLE to give as generously as this?" David was thanking God for even the ability to give at that level...he follows it up with, "everything comes from You and we have given You only what comes from Your hand."

Sometimes I feel like we have given generously to God... but no matter how much I am ever able to give to God He has given to me more abundantly,more generously, then I could ever hope to repay! Even if I gave 90% to God and lived off the 10% that remained I would not receive any glory because it ALL came from Him in the first place!

So what can we say to God? David says it perfectly, "God of our fathers, keep this desire in the hearts of Your people forever, and keep their hearts loyal to You." May our desire be to give to God with honesty and integrity from what He has abundantly provided (whether little or much) that we may be always willing to give to You who first gave to us.

Michael Jackson dies at age 50.

So my friends and fans of Michael Jackson, you may not want to read this... not that it is bad or slams Michael, but in this extended state of mourning you may not be thinking clearly and so completely miss what I'm trying to say.

I grew up with Michael Jackson. I remember when Thriller came out and I knew all the words to Smooth Criminal (the video was soooo cool). But I also watched part of the pedophile trial, etc. so I wasn't in a fairy tale world when it came to Michael.

But today, L.A. put on a tribute or memorial or whatever they called it to Michael and paraded one star after another on stage to talk about how wonderful he was and what a great entertainer and how his music and creativity changed the music industry forever. And I suppose it has.

But I was once told, as a pastor, never to preach anyone INTO heaven or OUT OF hell. Their life, like mine and yours, will speak for itself. Bottom line, end of the argument, last word is always whether or not that INDIVIDUAL had a relationship with Jesus Christ. I don't know if Michael did or did not - but I know one guy who knows and He's the one making the decision, judge and jury, so I'll leave it in His big, scarred hands.

While watching a portion of the service today I heard Stevie Wonder say that he "knew" as much as we needed (Michael) him, God must have needed him more... and I think that I take issue with that statement. Today I was reading about the life of King David and the men that were appointed as singers and instrumentalists before God at the Tabernacle and the Bible says that they were all skilled in their area. What does this mean? God doesn't need Michael in heaven or anywhere else, like it or not Michael is just a man, like every other man who is skilled at doing something and can do it well. And as uneducated as it may sound He (God) doesn't NEED any of us. But He does WANT all of us.

If Michael is in heaven he is with millions of others who all have perfect voices. Who never get tired. Who have infinite creativity and time to do anything that would bring Honor and Glory to God. I hope he is there. Just like I hope you're there - though I don't know you and you probably aren't famous (no one famous reads this blog haha) and you may not be able to sing... I hope to see you there.

Stevie, every song you've ever done I think must be a hit but you struck out on this one... Michael didn't die because God needed him in heaven, Michael died because he abused the things that were meant to help him, or his organs began to fail or there was some congenital thing going on we won't find out about for some time. His fate is our fate. But the promise of life with God is always there to everyone who believes in the one God sent, Jesus Christ, His only son. Heaven is NOT based on how well you sing, or whether or not you were famous, or if you have any creative bone in your body. It isn't even based on how many "good" things you do or how much joy you bring to others, God isn't prejudiced like that. The playing field is level. The option is there for me as it was for Michael and as it is for you... that whoever believes in HIM (Jesus) will be saved.

Can you know without knowing?

As most of you know my son Trent has severe Autism. I am working this summer in his classroom to help with his aggression. He has been pretty calm since I started working in there, just part of the honeymoon phase I'm sure, but he has been much better.
Anyway, there is some discussion about where he needs to go next school year and there is also some debate between his teacher/para's and the district administration. Today we tried to explain to an administrator about his aggression. She didn't get it. He was calm while she was in the room so I'm sure she thought we all are exaggerating the situation. The truth is you can't overstate his aggression.

I was thinking it's the same way with Real Life. It is so difficult to explain and so many people don't get it. They see us going through the same junk they do so they think there's nothing to it. But they don't see the whole story. They don't understand the camaraderie when we worship. They don't get the comfort of having others to rely on. They miss the connection we have with Jesus. They don't see the grace. The peace. The joy that fills and permeates who we are.

Maybe this is why the bible says that there will be some who will hear but never understand, see but never perceive because if they did understand and perceive they would come to know what we know and give their lives to Christ.

My apologies to all my loyal readers...

Well, it's been a few days since I posted. Not there wasn't anything to say but getting back from Branson last week presented us with a packed full schedule. Watching Trevor's ensemble instrument performances with KS Lions Band in Wichita. The drum corp was AWESOME and the trombone and flute performances were great too.
Then it was to the church to get a sermon down for Sunday and on and on. The last several days I have been working an article I submitted a query for to a publication called the Lookout. It is a Christian Church publication that, along with the Standard is read by a whole lot of people every week. I was writing a 1500 word article about being in the ministry with a special needs child. Don't know if they will publish it yet or not but I did my part and got it sent in.
It has been an interesting week as I started a new job. I now not only drive Trent to school every day, I stay with him and work as a para-educator in his room. Because of his aggression he is pretty much segregated in a room by himself and the adults that work with him. He was beating them up pretty good so I am now the primary enforcer in the class room, encouraging him to do his work and will be the first to intervene if he gets violent.
Not looking forward to an entire summer of being with him almost all the time, every day, but I'm the Dad - we do what we have to do.
I guess that's how God felt. Surely He didn't want to watch His Son die. Surely it cause Him incredible grief. But that's what He had to do. I'm glad I had an earthly Father who was willing to get the job done and a Heavenly Father who always did the right thing, not just the easy thing. Two great examples of what a Father is. Hopefully my kids can say the same some day.

When it's your own fault...

So this morning Trent was at church with us (if you were there you know this!) because we could not find a sitter for him today. He has had a fantastic week and done very well with all the changes to his schedule, staying with grandma and pa for three days, trip to Wichita for Trevor's band concert and lunch at AppleBees. But today at church he was off, upset and aggitated with something. Andi had to leave church early and take him home because he just was not getting along.

When I got home he was fairly upset, punched a hole in the wall, dumped a bathtub full of water on the bathroom floor, slammed some doors and was generally irritated and aggressive. So we had a little fight, nothing big just a little spat that ended up with him loosing (in the trash) one of his favorite dinosaur toys and an elephant (he LOVES elephants) toy.

He begged for his toys back but was still upset and angy and I was not too happy either so I stood my ground even when he asked with tears in his eyes and reminded me where he got it, "open present dinosaur toy" he said... he got the dino for Christmas and he loved it (which is why I used it as punishment - I ain't no wimmpy Father that only tosses the toys he doesn't like!)
Anyway, later I discovered that I had neglected to give Trent his medicine this morning... yep, you guessed it... my fault.

Trent was uphappy and angry becasue his little body was having withdrawls from the lack of meds and since he doesn't talk he couldn't just say, "Hey! I need my medicine!"

I'm reminded that when I get in to trouble and have a rough time in my life and am angry with God for what's going on it's most often my own fault! I neglected to follow His law. I didn't do what He asked or I just flat out dissobeyed!

So, given the circumstances, I think that old dinosaur may make a return appearance tonight...

Something I'm thankful for...

18 years and 6 months ago Andi said "I do" to me and a church full of people. Over those 18 years we've had a bunch of ups and downs in our marriage and in our lives. But let me take a minute to say here, as I sit in my hotel room in Branson (Andi's on the bed watching tv and eating pretzels... it's 11pm), that she has gotten more beautiful every year. And her beauty is not just physically - though she looks better than she ever has - but she is beautiful on the inside. Her spirit and ability to have fun and be quite even is amazing. She still suprises me, after all these years... So, I am happy and in love and tired this evening with the only person I would want to be here with...

Honey, I'd say more wonderful things about you but I am REALLY, REALLY tired!

What am I here for?

Maybe you've asked yourself that question before. Standing in line at the DMV (or the liqueur store). This thought went through my mind more than once this afternoon. What am I doing here? Why am I here? What good am I doing? I don't often ask myself these questions in relation to ministry, but today I asked myself all of them... while standing on the soccer field. If I believed in "luck" I would say that I'm pretty much bad luck for the soccer team. Having Real Life's logo on the front of the jerseys sure hasn't helped either!
Every time a ball got by me (and it happened a lot today!) I'd ask myself another one of those mentally rhetorical questions. And the answer was always "I don't know!"

We were doing pretty well - and you never ask yourself those kinds of questions when things are going good - tied the score. I had some good saves and then all the sudden I couldn't buy a save. I could blame it on others or use my standard line, "if the offense would score more there wouldn't be so much pressure on the defense" (the offense doesn't like that cop out). But the bottom line is that the ball stops here, with me... or rather, the ball rolls slightly past me - but I'm still responsible.

No matter how well or poorly the defense is playing I'm the last line of defense and its up to me to stop the ball. No matter what. I failed at that task today.

I failed at something else. Something bigger than a soccer ball or even the game. I failed to realize that I my task, my job is never just about what I'm doing at the moment. It's not just about stopping balls on the field or coaching 3rd graders or preaching or parenting or helping a neighbor... no my task is bigger and has much longer lasting results.

My job is to be the best witness I can for my Savior, Jesus Christ. Whether we win or loose I'm to be a witness. Whether I preach to 20 or 200 it's the same witness. Whether I'm letting Trevor drive the car home from Wichita or watching Tristen to back flips on the trampoline I have to watch my witness. And I need to change my perspective. I need to stop worrying and thinking so much about the temporal (today - flesh and blood stuff) and starting thinking more about the eternal.

So maybe I'll keep playing soccer and instead of just watching the ball, I'll make sure my witness scores for God.

Great Morning with the Svandas...

What a great time sharing with Lee and Tina Svanda this am. If you missed it they are preparing for a short-cycle mission to Koper, Slovenia where they will be planting a church, together with 7 other adults and 4 kids.
Lee and Tina shared their heart for this mission work as well as their plans for this incredible undertaking - planting a native church within 5 years!
Their journey to the mission field and how God is working in their lives is very similar to what is going on the lives of many here at Real Life as we open ourselves up to what God wants for us. This is especially true for Tina who shared that she has only been a Christian for 10 years (a little less than that I think) and how God moved her to a place where she caught Lee's vision for missions and finally joined him in completely surrendering to God and His Will.

Their testimony today tied in so well with the message as we talked about making God a priority in our lives. So often we get so sidetracked with life and bills and jobs and kids that we often give God the leftovers of our life and not the best... though we expect His best for us (a bit of a double standard I think - and am guilty of).

So we talked about ways to make God a bigger priority in our lives, reading our bible, trusting Him for our financial needs, praying a bit more focused.

As a set in the right direction there we as a church made a commitment to Lee and Tina to support them with 10% of the giving for the rest of the year. This is a way for us to press in and truly rely on God for the resources to run Real Life as well as support a mission that so closely resembles our heart for El Dorado.

So join me in prayer and priority as we focus on God and His Son Jesus Christ and look to Him for what we need even as we seek to give Him the best of who and what we are!

Thanks, Lord for the little things...

Today we got back from a speedy trip to KC to take Trent for some N.A.E.T. treatments. Last night in the hotel room I was praying and thanked God for our safe trip to KC and asked for a safe trip home (He delivered btw). While praying about that I thought about all the time we spend on the road. I take Trent to school in Andover (30 min one way) every school day. Andi takes the other kids to Leon (sometimes Trevor drives) every school day. Twice a week during the last semester Andi left school early drove to Emporia, KS for her EdS. Now back on the road to KC and next week she and I to Branson...
Of all the people on the road and all the wrecks and fender-benders there are every day God has kept us safe.

Thank you God for safe travels when there have been so many opportunities and near misses You have kept us safe.

Crummy Day... what's the difference?

So today started okay... Trent didn't go to sleep 'till late again last night so wasn't sure how he'd do today at home or school. Once to school (Trent did fine in the am) I talked with his teacher about his aggression. We talked about two options for the summer for Trent. I could come as a para and work so that if he got angry the other paras would not have to take the brunt, or we could possibly send him to HeartSpring and see how that works for him and them.
Needless to say, these are HUGE changes for us and would be for Trent - though they might be good options.
Now, we are going to KC tomorrow afternoon for some N.A.E.T. treatments (spending the night in KC) and coming home on Saturday... sometime.

Anyway, it just seemed like it was one thing after another today that was not expected and did NOT make me happy. I was grumpy finishing up with Jack on the roof this evening and just overall poopy in spirit.

But, (here's the good part) this is not all there is to my life. I will continue to have days that kick my butt - spiritually, financially, physically, emotionally - but it's only one day at a time. I can't change the future by worrying about it. We will work and pray about the best situation for Trent and we'll make a decision and live with it. Whether I have to work with him at the school or take him to a new school we'll get through it.

You see, the things that happen to us everyday are just things that happen to us - they don't define us. They don't MAKE us happy or grumpy or angry they just happen. So thank you Lord that when the day DOESN'T go the way I want it to you are the same... yesterday, today and forever. You don't change. My life changes. My feelings change. My relationships change and financial situation changes. But not You.

Thanks for being... always.

I Am: The TRUE VINE

Jesus invites us to connect with Him so that we might bear fruit - or Christ-likeness in our lives. Are you ready to connect with Christ, or His church? Get plugged in and enjoy the benefits and blessings of being connected!

Easter '09 - The Conqueror

Easter at Real Life brought us to the 6th week of the I Am series with I Am the Conqueror! Join us on a journey with the women who went to the tomb that morning. They left their homes full of despair and pain and grief but returned full of joy and hope! You can be free from what is keeping you from seeing Jesus too! Maybe you just need a change of focus...

I Am: The WAY. The TRUTH. The LIFE!

Has your life gone the way you planned? Maybe you believed the lie that you weren't good enough or that you could find freedom in things that soon eslaved and addicted you. Maybe you're thinking that life just isn't worth much anymore... There is a man named Jesus who can show you the WAY, will always tell you the TRUTH and wants desperately to give you Real Life!

I Am: part 4 - The Good Shepherd

Jesus is The Good Shepherd and as our Good Shepherd fills two rolls that no one else can, we'll look at these and what Jesus wants so much he was willing to die to get it.

I Am: your Access to Peace

In John 10 Jesus says that He is "the GATE." But what does that mean? A metal gate? Chainlink, wood? In this message we'll take a look at what Jesus meant by the gate and how we can move through it.

I Am: The Light of the World

In this message we'll look at Jesus claim that He is the Light of the World. We'll also see how we fit into this as reflectors of His light.

I Am: The Bread of Life

Many things have been written and said about the man Jesus Christ. But if we truly want to know Him, we must seek to know what He said about Himself. What did the Great I Am say about Himself? Join us to find out...

FANATIC: week 2 - What is Worship... continued

We continue Fanatic with week 2 as we discusss what worship looks like and how and when we worship. Do you ever get burned out with all the stuff you have to do, even on Sunday? Do you ever "check out" of worship? Let this message rekindle your fire for worship.

FANATIC: week 1 - What is Worship?

In this message we discuss what worship is from a quick look at worship in the Old Testament, New Testament from a traditional view and contemporary view of worship. Worship may not mean what you think it means... join us as we ask the question, What is Worship?

Just a thought about the prodigals...

I was reading in Luke 15 for today's bible reading and was struck by something that I hadn't noticed before...
I suppose that I am not too different from most, or at least many Christians. We have the ability to, quite smugly, look down our noses at those we might call "prodigals." People who have run away from God, or never were with Him in the first place. You know what I mean. Makes us feel better about our own sin when we see someone who has REAL issues.
But I wonder if there are any redeeming qualities there? When we look at those who are not a part of our "group" and make judgements about them are they mostly on the negative side? I think so. But what if we were to look a little deeper...
As I was reading the prodigal son story again, for the like the bazilionth time I noticed something I hadn't before - well, I'd read it a ton of times but it struck me different this time. It's a small thing, maybe insignificant...but maybe not. Here's a kid that we want to be disgusted by (I'll recount the reasons to dislike him). He brazenly asked for a portion of the inheritance that he should have only received upon his father's death or near death. Jerk. He took the money and took off, leaving his father and brother to do the work while he partied. Jerk. He apparently took his father's money and spent it on prostitutes, according to his brother. Perv. He gets in a bind and expects his father to bail him out...even if it is as a slave.
We want to hear the father say something like, "well, you're a little presumptuous aren't you? You come work and slave and do all the dirty jobs and I'll think about letting you come back." But I'm getting off track.
I noticed today that when the prodigal was away from home, broke and working for pennies in a job he must have hated and been humiliated by (even the prostitutes were makin' more money - though they wouldn't even give him the time of day now!) he didn't steal from his boss...or the pigs for that matter. Did you ever notice that? Jesus tells us that he "longed to fill his stomach with the pods the pigs were eating...but no one gave him anything." He was so hungry he would eat pig slop... but he didn't, even though no one else would give him anything to eat. Now, I'm guessing a little that if the guy who bought him as a slave was able to afford someone to feed his pigs he must have been well off and probably had lots of pigs. If this assumption is true the pigs would be kept in a pen away from the home and probably outside the city on a pig farm of some kind. So the boy would have had ample opportunity to steal, but he doesn't. Even though he is extremely hungry, he doesn't.
There are many Christians who will inadvertently take a candy bar from Wall-mart, forget to pay for it and not go back into the store. Or, in other words, steal a candy bar. But this boy wouldn't do it. Maybe he remembered some story his dad told about being honest, about character or what it means to be a man. Maybe that is why he eventually decides to go home and face the music... lucky for him he had the greatest Father in the world!
So my thought this evening is this, maybe I ought to spend a little more time looking for the redeeming instead of the condemning. Maybe you'll join me?

HOSTAGE: part 5 - Anger

What is it that really makes you mad? Did you know that there is righteous anger and unrighteous anger? Which one do you think you spend most of your time with? That's what I thought...me too. But there are some steps we can take to minimize the unrighteous kind in our lives. Remember that anger is not bad in itself, it's what you do with it and how you display it that makes it bad... or good.

HOSTAGE: part 6 - New Creation

You don't have to be held hostage any longer! The Truth in Christ is that you are FREE! The old has gone the new has come and you are a NEW CREATION!!!! Now you just have to live like it!

Hostage 4: Anger

Do you struggle with anger? In this message you'll learn how to begin to turn that part of your life around. The emotion of anger does not have to control your life anymore. What makes you angry?

HOSTAGE 3 - Addiction

This week we take at look what it's like to be held hostage to addictions. I'll bet if you thought about it for a minute you'd find something you are addicted to. Fishing? Television? Texting or Internet? Or maybe it's more destructive then that, pornography. drugs or sexual addiction. You've tried to stop but you just haven't been able to. Maybe today is your day to break free. Maybe tomorrow you won't be a HOSTAGE any longer. It's YOUR time!

HOSTAGE 2 - Worry

We’re all held hostage by something...what is your captor? Maybe it’s fear, pride, lust, or even jealousy. The good news is that our ransom has been paid in full. Join us for Hostage and discover how to truly break free, once and for all.

What I learned on the way there...

When I was younger I loved to go places with no plan. I just get in the car with a destination in mind but just drive, a kind of "get there when we get there" attitude. But I learned something on this trip, well, several things.
Never travel without baby wipes - in good supply!
But second to that is, where travel is concerned I am not a "journey" kind of guy. I am a destination guy. I have a plan. There is expectation involved. The journey gets in the way of my plan. We were supposed to arrive in Boise the evening of the 22nd. But that didn't work out. After we got to Ogden Utah we found out that Interstate 84 West to Boise was closed because of poor visibility (snowing really good!). So we had to travel North to Pocatello (where we ended up staying the night). I was not worried about the snow or the roads, I was upset that we were not going to make it when we planned. We had to drive 2 hours out of the way. And had to spend money on a hotel! I did not really care about the adventure, the journey we got to take. We stayed at a great hotel. And we got to see some beautiful countryside. But I didn't pay much attention to those things since I was more upset about not getting to Boise when planned.

Life, I've heard is not about the destination (though it is ALL about the destination - but go with me for a minute) but about the journey. The twists and turns in life that take us to places we didn't plan and experiences we had not expected. I know some people in life who, like my travel, are more concerned about the destination, their plans and purposes and stuff then they are about the journey of life.

I suppose that it is good for us to be willing to take what life brings us, or rather, take what God brings us. I am reminded of Paul who said, "I know what it is to have plenty, and I know what it is to be in want" and he finished it all with, "I have learned to be content." Enjoying the journey of life has a great deal to do with leaning to be content with what you are given, what comes your way, what God brings.

So I prayed on Monday while driving, "God help me to enjoy what you bring - the detours and the bumps and the turns and twists."

Maybe this Christmas is not turning out just like YOU planned. Maybe the tree isn't as stuffed with presents as you wanted. Maybe there's no snow on the ground like you wanted (were supposed to get up to 6inches today and tomorrow here in Boise!). But What has God brought you? What turns did your life take this last year that changed your plans? Have you been upset about it? Why not see it is an opportunity to discover something about yourself, about your God and about contentment?

Have a great Christmas Eve and Christmas day!

He Will Be Called - part 3 - Everlasting Father

There are lots of names for Christ, this week we look at Christ as our Everlasting Father. No matter what kind of a father you had, your Everlasting Father is better than them all, watch and see.

Hebrews 13 / December 9 - The Last things...

Well, I've been working on the message for Sunday, it's about Jesus as our Everlasting Father, and I read a website where people whose Fathers had died could post letters to their Dad. It was actually pretty sad. Some of the letters and short statements on the guestbook were very positive and gave a nod to God for His work in their lives through the difficult times. But others seemed just hopeless. There was more than one that said, I can't live without you, it's hopeless. Others talked of years of pain and sadness that would not go away. One asked the question, "why, why, did you have to smoke?" The pain and emptiness that was conveyed by many was terribly depressing. There were others though that spoke of the last things that were said, voice mails left or fun times. What would you say if it were your last chance to speak to someone?

Hebrews 13 is the epilogue of the book. Perhaps the last time the writer (who every he or she was) would ever speak to their audience again. What was so important? What couldn't wait? What had to be said?

Did you notice that what the writer says falls very close to the following; keep it up! Don't waiver! Keep doing what you know you ought to do! Love. Entertain. Remember. Keep pure. Be content. Consider. Don't be carried away. Look for the City. Obey and pray.

Get busy!

And the prayer of the one who penned this encouragement? That God would, "equip you with everything good for doing HIS will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to HIM, through Jesus Christ."

Would you like it in a nutshell? After all it is the holidays. Don't stop. Don't stop doing the things you know are pleasing to God - even if you want to - don't stop. Get up. Start again if you fail. Don't give up. Don't shut up. Don't... I don't know another one that ends in "up" but you get the idea. And when you move and go and don't stop God will equip you with everything for doing HIS will.

Have a great Wednesday.

He Will Be Called: Mighty God - 12-7-08

It's Christmas time. Snow. Caroling. Family. Presents. But let's not forget bills, pressure to get the right gifts, family. Snow. Life is chaotic enough but when we add Christmas into the mix the pressure increases. Have been trying to do life on your own? Planning your own steps. Trying desperately to be the man, or woman you think you need to be to meet your own needs or the needs of your family. But guess what? You can't do it. But there is someone who can...

Hebrews 1 / Dec 3 - Jesus is # 1

Do you remember in Nacho Libre when Ramses is getting ready for the big fight? He's got some guy who is sitting there saying, "Ramses is #1, his arms are number one, his legs are number one, his fists are number one...Ramses is...number one."
In the movie it turns out to not be true, since Ramses gets beat by Nacho. But we could say this about Jesus and it would be true. Look no further than Hebrews 1.

Jesus is
heir of all things
maker of the universe
the radiance of God's glory
the exact representation of his being
sustainer of all things by his powerful word
superior to the angels

There are those who worship mere men or women... but they will eventually get beat, by death or Nacho if nothing else. Angels are pretty popular today but even with their abilities worshiping angels doesn't get you anywhere either.

Jesus is the only one that fits the bill. Heir. Maker. Radiance. Exact Representation. Sustainer. Superior. There is no one else who is the Son of God. No one else who has the right to stand at the right hand of God. No one else who will withstand and outlast everything else created.

Jesus is number one...
His arms are number one...
His legs are number one...
His love is number one...
His grace is number one...
His mercy is number one...
His sacrifice is number one...
Jesus...is....number one!

Have a great Wednesday knowing you have a relationship with the NUMBER ONE of all time!

He Will Be Called:Wonderful Counselor - Week 1

Where do you go for advice? Is it always good? How would you like to get the right advice at the right time - every time? The first term Isaiah used to describe Jesus was Wonderful Counselor. But in order to take advantage of that counsel we must...well I don't want to give it away!

MIRACLES VI: The Blind See

For six weeks we've been looking at the Miracles of Jesus from the book of John. And we've saved the best for last... The Blind See. The miracles that we've looked at to date have all been physical but in this miracle the miracle isn't the healing of a man's sight - but the giving of spiritual sight; the ability to "see" Jesus as Lord and Savior, God's Son. It is the miracle of faith that is extended to all who believe. Perhaps God has been working in your life but you haven't recognized it, or given credit to Him for what He's done. Today, let your spiritual eyes be opened and your spirit find rest in the risen Savior.

Collosians 3,4 - November 21 - A social experiement, not for the faint of faith.

Peace. Loaded word. There are some who say there is no peace without war. There are others who would say that without war, there is peace. I suppose the people in California would like some peace right now. Fires. That's what they've got. And lots of them. Fires in the mountains and fires in the streets - can you say anything about proposition 8 without get stones thrown from one side or the other? Peace would be nice.
There are those who struggle to find a little peace. It's hard when you're in the middle of a foreclosure. When you're not sure if Big Brother is going to bail out your employer - so you still have a job. Christmas is right around the corner... good thing Wal-Mart has a whole aisle of toys in the $.95 range. It would be nice to have some financial peace right about now.

I noticed several statements, I suppose we could call them commands in three short verses; 15,16,17, here they are for your consideration.

Let the PEACE of Christ rule in your hearts.
Be THANKFUL.
Let the WORD of Christ dwell in you RICHLY.
and, WHATEVER you do, whether in word or deed do it all in the name of JESUS.

Peace, it seems to me, is unattainable in this life. Whether by force or by kindness - peace will never be seen. There is an evil in this world that prevents, even hates, peace. That's probably why Paul said we need to let the PEACE OF CHRIST, rule in our hearts. That's completely different from the worlds peace. The peace of Christ happens no matter the situation. It is not situational...it is constant. No matter the situation there is always peace in Christ. Yeah, I don't get it either, though I've felt it. It's why we call it the "peace that passes all understanding." You can't understand it, but it's there. In the dark. In the midst of your own personal, financial, social, spousal, family war... His peace is there.

And since it's thanksgiving next week there's a command to be THANKFUL. It's not a wishy-washy idea. Be THANKFUL. It's a choice. It's an act of will. I can be thankful even when nothing is going my way (though it's hard for me too!). Thankfulness. It has to do with what I choose to look at, or rather focus on. Thankfulness is a "the glass is half-full" attitude. (It's also half empty, either one explains the reality of the situation but only one makes you feel good that you've got a half a glass of water!)

None of this that has come before, or the statement after can be done if the WORD of Christ does not dwell in you. Pack it up. Head out the door. If there is no Word there is no peace. If there is no Word there is no thankfulness. If there is no Word then how would I know what would bring glory to God? You see the WORD is life and light. I am blessed to be a messenger of that Word. But that's it. It didn't start with me and it won't end with me. The WORD never fails. Never falls. Never waivers. Never "misses" the mark. The WORD is the mark. The WORD became flesh and made His dwelling among us...I am thankful.

Oh and by the way, in case you "Christians" missed it... the last one is a good remind to those of us who all too often forget, when were out in traffic or in the work place or clamoring for the last...whatever is going to be the hot gift this year... that everything we do should be done with the express purpose of bringing glory to God. Which just means that we should be able to put a JESUS stamp on it. You know, like the sticker you got in the last pair of underwear that you bought - but didn't catch until you were taking them off at the end of the day... the one that has a number on it. That pair of BVD's was inspected by the person who stuck that number on there - "18." It was their seal of approval. These briefs passed the inspection. They passed the test. (what kind of tests do they put underwear through anyway?) There should be a sticker on everything you and I as Christians (not for those who are not) do and say that just says "JC." Whatever you do means... are you ready? Whatever, you do.

How about today, just today, we try to live by these four commands. What do you think would happen? Let me know how our little social, "fight the hypocrisy" experiment goes!

MIRACLES 6: The Blind See - coming this sunday!

Join us as we wrap up the MIRACLES series with The Blind See. We'll walk with Jesus and the disciples as they meet a man born blind and in the end he not only sees things he has never seen - he sees Jesus as his Savior. Are there blind spots in your life? Are you ready to see?

MIRACLES V: Water to Wine

It's the first miracle but that isn't the best part of this story... Join us as we look inside a first-century wedding and discover how and why Jesus performed this first miracle. And what the response was to this first miracle.

Galatians 6 / Nov 14 - contradiction? I don't think so.

Well, you might not believe I'm saying this... but I'm going to say it anyway. It's not what you do that is important. There, I said it. Throw the book at me! Tell me what a jerk I am for telling you for the last year "it's what you do that matters." Tell me how nonspiritual I am and what a low class preacher I am since I don't even have a basic grasp of the Bible. Are you feeling better? Are you glad to get that out of your system? Good. Now quite gloating and listen up.

I hope you have realized that I am not as concerned with making a good impression as some probably wish I was (maybe my wife for instance) because I'm not interested in trying to make Christianity "look" good as though it needed my "show" to be attractive to others. So, I try and keep it real (pun intended). You see what you do outwardly to prove you belong in church or to a church or are a good christian doesn't mean anything. What you and I do on Sunday may impress those sitting around us but it doesn't impress God and probably doesn't impress those outside the church looking for something more. Something real. Something beyond just some thing that you do (that was a lot of somethings).

Verse 15 of chapter 6 tells us that circumcision/uncircumcision (acts done to prove something) don't mean anything. That's right, they don't mean anything. What we do, doesn't mean anything. What matters Paul says is "a new creation." Remember that "I (Jesus) have come that you might have life, real life, more and better than you ever dreamed?" It comes from relationship, from the new creation that happens when we give our lives, completely, over to Christ. Romans 6 is the key text here saying that the "old has gone the new has come" when we are "baptized into Christ Jesus."

So the RULE, (don't cuss, don't commit sexual immorality or get drunk or lie, cheat or steal, etc.) doesn't mean anything if there is no new creation, they're just things you do or don't do. So what you do doesn't mean anything. It's the relationship you have (or don't) that matters.

Before you get too excited, what you do comes in to play after the new creation is, well created. Now you "do" not because it helps you or puts you in some special place with God but because you love Him and want to. And that's a lot better way to do things anyway.

How about a dose of Real Life.

2 Corinthians 13 / Nov 11 - What's your grade?

Okay, cut me some slack... after reading yesterday's text I was kicking myself for not posting, some good things there. Did you notice that Paul said he "knows a man who was caught up" and he would boast about that guy but not himself? Did you see then that in the next paragraph he said, "to keep me from being conceited because of these 'surpassingly great revelations...'" See it? He just admits that he was the one "caught up!" Interesting.

But this morning I think that it may be good to take a test. In my classes the students know that they will be quizzed every week and that there will be a final exam. If they fail the tests there is a good chance they will fail the final. A test is a measurement tool to see if you are on task. It is a good thing! If there are no tests how will you know if you are getting the right info? Focusing on the right parts of the lecture? Getting the correct information out of the text? So test actually help us so that we are not caught off guard.

Paul suggests that we test ourselves, or examine our lives to see if we are "in the faith." Is your life reflecting the principles and characteristics of Christ? Are you on the right path? (narrow or wide?) Does your faith sound good but lack something in the delivery every day?

Paul asserts that those who are in the faith have within themselves "Christ Jesus." The inference is that you will be able to determine, after examining, that you have Christ, unless of course you fail the test!

My prayer today is that you not only pass the test but you ACE it as you consider how well you let Christ shine through your life every day.

Have a great Tuesday!

MIRACLES IV: Raising the Dead

Jesus not only had power over the physical to heal and restore but even death is no match for the power of Christ. In this message we'll discover that the miracle power of Christ to bring back the physical body from death is also available to what is dead or dying our lives. Dead faith? Dead relationships? Dead Marriage? Dead hope? Jesus is ready to speak into the darkness of your life and call back to life, what is dead. Are you ready to "Come Out?" Your new life and new clothes await...

2 Corinthians 8 / Nov 7 - religious socialism?

Since President Elect Obama was accused of wanting to bring socialism to America perhaps this is not a good time for this post...but since I'm not any good at being "PC" I'm gonna press on!

But before you lock up your wallet and pad-lock your purse there is something you need to know about what Paul is getting to.

First. He reminds us that Christ, as the Son of God, was in heaven prior to coming to the earth and being born a helpless little baby. In heaven He was the creator and sustainer of all things on earth he was poor. Hated. Dismissed as a crazy. Beat. Tried and convicted. Killed because of a loophole in the law (they didn't account for someone being the actual Son of God). To truly understand this point you must get that Jesus had it all and gave it all up for you.

Second. This was not a Robin Hood idea (rob from the rich and give to the poor). It sounds a little socialist, the idea of everyone being equal but the context is not that of taking from what someone worked hard to attain and just giving it to someone who didn't want to work. No, what was happening here was a great famine in Jerusalem (and surrounding area) so that the Church in that part of the world was suffering greatly. Paul was encouraging the Church in Corinth to follow through with what they had promised, to send financial gifts to their brothers to help them in their time of need. The plan then was that if needed, the Church in Jerusalem - after the famine had passed, would be able and obligated to help the Church in Corinth should they ever need it.

Notice though that this was not forced (through taxes, etc.) but they "gave as much as they were able and even beyond their ability, entirely on their own..." From the other day Paul said that they ought to "lay aside a sum of money, in keeping with their income." So, it was not just about taking away but those in Christ willingly giving what they could.

So, I'll give what I can and you give what you can and it may not be equal gifts, but it should be an equal sacrifice. Have a good Friday!

THIS SUNDAY! MIRACLES IV: Raising the Dead

Is there something in your life that has died or is dying? A relationship? Emotional death? You may have even suffered Spiritual death, or you may be heading that way. This week we'll see Jesus raise both the physically dead and bring what is dead in you and me back to life.

2 Corinthians 4 / Nov 6 - Good to remember

So this chapter couldn't have come at a better time for me. There is a delicate balance that we try to maintain in the faith. How do we deal with the truth of God's incredible power at work within us through His Spirit, when we ourselves as so fragile. Jesus said, if you faith you can say to this mountain "go throw yourself into the sea" and it will obey... fine. I believe that. There is incredible and infinite power available to us through the Spirit of God. And not only to us, but in us! Yet this incredible power must move through the bottleneck of our faith!

Paul says we have this treasure (this power, this light, this Spirit) in jars of clay; fragile, unable to hold an infinate amount of power, prone to cracks and leaks. Think of pouring a gallon of milk into a small glass, once the glass if filled the milk just runs out. As a jar of clay my ability to hold all that God has to offer is limited.

I continue to wonder, "God, how come this isn't happening or you're not doing that?" It isnt that God can't - perhaps the problem is that my jar has a leak of faith... or a crack of trust and all that God is pouring into me is running out. My prayer today is that God restores the broken vessels of our faith. Fill the cracks. Plug the leaks. And continue pouring into us your grace and power to meet our needs out of your abundance in Christ Jesus. Finally God, increase the size of my jar so that I can hold more and more of You.

2 Cor 3 / Nov 5 - It's not the end...

Okay, it is difficult night for me. If you didn't know I am a Republican. I had hoped that McCain would pull out an upset, but it seems now that it is highly unlikely that will happen. What does that mean?

For the next four years will will have not only a Democrat in the White House but the first African American President in our Nation's history, which, by-the-way is really cool. I would have desired the first black president to be a republican but, that is the way it goes. Can you believe that we have come so far (as Carl Rove said) "in such a short period of time" from the slavery issue to our First African American Family.

While I am worried about the next few years and all the changes that will most certainly come (my opinion) I am reminded of a few things tonight.

1. The whole idea of our election process is that there is balance. That is why we have senatorial elections ever 2 years and presidential elections every 4 years. It is also why the balance of power from Pennsylvania Avenue and in the senate/congress constantly shift. Four years of democrat rule, eight years of republican rule and back to democrat rule. That is the plan. If you don't know (from whatever side your on) how good you have it, it often takes a change to realize it.

2. The democrats have had to live through eight years of Bush and probably thought they would die at some point or that the end of the world was coming any day. It did not. The same is probably true (all though no one knows the day!) for this time. We will not die (I hope) and the end of the world will probably not happen (see note above). This too shall pass.

3. From chapter 3: Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
-In Christ there is FREEDOM. Regardless of who is in power, in Christ we are free. In chains we are free. Talk to a christian from a communist country- they are free. And you and I are to be a reflection of the Lord's glory and are being transformed into the likeness of Christ. No matter what the future brings, we are Christians first. Followers of Christ regardless of the politics or position of our elected officials.

So today I wake up as a citizen of the greatest country in the world. A country that has been blessed by God at a level greater than any other since the Israelites themselves. I will work. I will do what I believe to be right. I will learn and grow in my faith. I will pray that God gives our president and leaders wisdom to keep this country in the grace of God.

I am not afraid. I am not ashamed. I am a Christian, a follower of Christ. I am today and I will be tomorrow by the grace of God.

2 Cor 2 / Nov 4 - The paths of our lives for a purpose

Think of all the places you've been, all the jobs, all the relationships. Where have you lived? How many times have you moved? How many friendships have been created?

Did you ever consider that the webs of our lives, the interconnected relationships, jobs, homes travels, could actually be used by God to increase the knowledge of His Son, Jesus Christ?

This is what Paul is expressing in verse 14. God opened a door for him but he could not put his spirit to rest because he wanted so desperately to find Titus. So, his desire to find his friend compelled him to leave Troas. But his path both to Troas and then to Macedonia, meant that He was able to spread the message of Jesus Christ to more people in more places! Here's how he says it, "But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him."

So Paul sees these trips he makes and the places he stays and the relationships he builds, even the problems that cause him to leave on place and go to another as a means to spread the message of hope in Christ.

Makes me reconsider the moves I've made and the relationships and the trips and the "mistakes" and see them in a different light. How about you?

2 Cor 1 / Nov 3 - we stand by faith

Well, today my oldest son told me about some conversations that he overheard about God and religion. One person said there were two options, "Either God exists and He hates us or there is just a higher being that is uninterested."
Frankly, I refuse to believe that. Do bad things happen? yes. Is it God's desire to just punish? One excuse was "people who are out drinking, having sex and doing everything 'wrong' are living high on the hog." So what is there for those of us who believe?

It is a hard lesson. But those who stand firm do so by faith. I do not believe because God provides for every wish and desire. I do not believe because everything in my life is always just the way I want it. I do not believe because I never worry, never fear, never want for anything. I believe because there is no other explanation for my presence here on this planet. That my children all had congenital heart disease...though it has NEVER affected them or kept them from doing what they wanted. In fact, as they grow it becomes so slight they don't have to worry about it! That doesn't happen often.
I believe because the Bible has been proven true and accurate over and over and over again. i believe because the FACTS of Jesus and His continued work in my life are visible every day.

I don't stand because of what I have, or what I have been given. I stand by faith.

how about you?

MIRACLES III: Poolside Miracle

What's your spiritual handicap? What is it that is keeping you from experiencing all that God has for you, what we call Real Life? Answer the three questions in this message to be that much closer to a miracle.

coming this Sunday!

1 Corinthians 14 / Oct 31 - Words mean something

Well, I'm back...and what a day I picked! Of all the issues that the church struggles with this is one that causes an incredible amount of ire and at the same time makes only a tiny bit of difference.

Speaking in other languages (tongues) seems to be a personal issue unless it is done in the church but should ONLY be done if there is an interpreter. And is used as a tool for the unbeliever. I suppose it goes without saying that if there is no one in church that does not have a relationship with Jesus Christ then there would be no need or call for speaking in another language.

I use the term language because that is how most Bibles interpret this word and Paul makes it clear that there are "all sorts of languages in the world yet none of them is without meaning." Clearly Paul intended that his hearers would understand that this "tongue" was a language, had a meaning and could be interpreted by someone who was gifted to "interpret" or could speak the language already.

I have heard stories of ministers in other countries who "spoke in tongues" only to have someone come to them and say that they spoke perfect (fill in the blank) language and wanted to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior.

I do not say that "tongues" doesn't exist or that it is nothing. However, it is clear to me that the idea that a person "has to" speak in tongues to prove the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is completely unBiblical. Paul clearly indicates in his writings that all different people have all different gifts. There is no gift that everybody has unless the ability to believe to in Jesus - faith - could be considered a gift.

So, in words that can be understood, be strengthened in your faith as you continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. And I'll see you Sunday!

MIRACLES: Casting out the Evil Spirit - 10/26/08

On a scale of 1-10 where is your faith? Do you sometimes find yourself believeing that God Can do what you've asked, but you're not really sure that He will? In this message Corey discusses how to develop real faith. And it's real easy!

1 Corinthians 3 / Oct 23 - solid foundation

This chapter really speaks to me as I think about the future of Real Life. Just so you know and there is no question... neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building.
I've said this before but it bears repeating over and over. I am no one special, just a guy who God is using to connect people to a place to connect to His Son Jesus Christ. You all however, are God building - which is way cool!
I am doing my best to lay ONLY the foundation of Jesus Christ in a way that connects people do not currently know him.

I think that the gold, silver, costly materials, wood, hay and straw all will burn in the fire the only thing that will last is Jesus. So, should we sit on the ground with no projector, instruments, etc.? I don't believe so. If we did we would not have a very big crowd. Without a crowd there is no one to connect to and no lives for Jesus to change. So we will continue to try and update and find new and innovative ways to attract the un-churched and under-churched to Real Life so they can experience Eternal life.

But please know... Real Life is about Jesus, connecting with others to connect others to Him. That's the foundation and we will build no other foundation than that.

thanks for allowing me to do what God has called me to do and thanks for being a great "building" for God!

1 Corinthians 1 - October 22 / foolishness

Do you remember being a kid and coming home thinking that there was something incredibly important but no one else in the family did? TJ is always coming in with some incredible story about dirt or some toy...or his favorite thing is to talk about some scene from a silly Disney channel show. It seems that we are constantly telling him "if this is about a Disney show we don't want to hear it!"

From our perspective TJ's story is unimportant. But from his perspective, so close to the floor, it is very important! So important that he wants to share it with us!

The same thing happens in spiritual matters...what is important to me as a believer, what I want to share from what I've heard or seen doesn't seem very important to someone who doesn't share my perspective of Jesus Christ.

What I say "seems" like foolishness to them, but to me - and perhaps you to - it is the power of God for the salvation of our souls and even for those who think it is "foolishness."

So, here's to being foolish! and enjoying Real Life!

MIRACLES: Calming the Storm 10-19-08

Are there any storms in your life? Are you drowning in the midst of bills? Pain? Fear? Health issues? Have you cried out ot God to calm the storms in your life? Find out some reasons why we go through the storms in life and what the outcome can be. Are you ready for a Miracle?

Sunday's coming!

He opened blind eyes. Raised the dead. Calmed the storm. Cast out demons and made bodies whole... think He's done?

Jesus still calms the storms in this life. It's called a miracle.

Romans 3 / October 15 - do and believe

So, everybody knows the passage that says all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God... but do you know the other half...and how the two are connected?

My children do things to each other that I don't like and that they get in trouble for. Each of them do it. They don't really set out to do these things, but they happen. My guess is that it happens in your family too. It's not intentional- but it does happen.

...and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ.

...and they love each other and will help each other whenever the need arises because they are a part of the Landreth family - they share the name.

You and I will sin, not because we necessarily want to but because we are not as strong spiritually as we might want to be. And quite frankly, we sin...bottom line...because we want to. Which is why I am so grateful that I am not justified by what I do, but by my association with the name of Jesus Christ (Christian) and the grace that come through His blood. Which is the same for my kids. They are going to say and do things that hurt each other but in the end they are blood and that connection is strong.

Thank you God for this insight and for judging us, your children, by faith and not by deeds.

October 14 - addendum to Romans 1

Hey all, if you haven't read it yet...after today's post (Romans 1) you need to read verse 13 from Romans 2. The whole righteousness by faith hangs on this verse.

Romans 2:13

Notice that it is not in just "hearing" where righteousness by faith is found but in...get ready for this..."OBEYING" what you hear. In fact, the Christian life begins with obedience. Believe, Repent, Confess and be Baptised aren't suggestions...they are part of that obedience that connects us to the Son of God. Not because we completely understand it all, but because we believe enough to obey, even when we don't understand.

it's called faith.

Romans 1 / October 14 - It's a faith thing

Let's kick of Romans!
Having just finished Acts (I read even when I didn't post), you might be wondering where Romans fits... since Paul is already in Rome. Well, Paul's letter to the Romans was actually written between the 18th and 21st chapters of Acts, right before Paul actually gets there (actually several months/a year before).

Paul is pretty clear in this chapter so I won't bore you with what you can plainly and directly read for yourself.
But I want to focus your attention on verses 16,17 where Paul says "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."

First, why should we (Christianity as a whole) be ashamed of what is the greatest expression of the power of God - Salvation through the blood of His Son Jesus Christ. The message went first to the Jews, who did not all wholeheartedly receive it, and then to the Gentiles where it exploded into the rest of the world.

But look at the last statement. In the message of hope concerning Jesus (the Gospel - Bible) there is a righteousness from God that is about faith. and then Paul quotes the Old Testament, the righteous will live by faith.

Here's the bottom line. Your church attendance won't save you. Your money, tithes and offerings, won't save you. Your "morals" or "ethics" won't save you. Your family history or genealogy won't save you. Your kids, grandma, parents or dog won't save you.

Only your faith in the one and only Son of God will save you. Did He die on the cross for you? Did He rise from the dead? Did He go to His father in Heaven? Did His death on the cross pay your price and free you from the guilt and punishment for sin?

then you are well on your way to a righteousness that comes through faith. Live like it!

Habakkuk Part III - Climbing out.

In this final message we see Habakkuk climbing out of the spiritual dip. If you are struggling with what God is doing in your life this message can help.

October 10th - got bugs?

As you know I work a part time job and what I do requires a computer. Okay, I realize that many jobs today require a computer. But if our computers shut down we are dead in the water. First, 90% of the orders we receive come to us through the Internet and into our email. We process the orders through a software program and run credit cards through that same software. We also use the computer to process shipping through UPS, FedEx and USPS. So if the system goes down we all just sit around and twiddle our thumbs.

The last few weeks we have had one computer issue after another. Two new pc's and we're still having issues. Tuesday one of the employees came out and said, "I think we've got a bug." Meaning, we've got a virus of some sort that kicks our individual pc's off the network and shuts us down.

I was thinking this am (while being frustrated by some issues with my own new laptop!) that our spiritual lives are kind of like our pc's and networks.

How is your connection with God and His Son Jesus Christ? Do you feel like you've been getting "kicked off" the spiritual network that was established when you gave your life to Jesus? Maybe you've got a bug, a sin that lays in wait until an opening is found and then attaches it self to you in some way and that connection is dismantled.

If you've found your connection lacking maybe it is time to re-boot. How? Well you reset your spiritual hard drive by recommitting your life to Christ and His will for your life. Romans says "Do not conform to the pattern of this world (living with bugs) but be transformed by the renewing of your mind (resetting your spiritual hard drive)."

If you need to recommit take this opportunity to make it public. You can comment on this post and we'll pray for you and your decision!

Some encouragement

It's late Wednesday night...pretty tired but wanted to share with you a bit from a meeting I had with some members of my advisory board through the Christian Evangelising Association (their the guys who help to support me so the church can put it's money in other things).

The two guys I met with are the lead pastors and church planters from Lifestream in Gardner, KS. and Dave Henry from New Community in Salina. They know what their doing. Dave's church in Salina is 10 years old and is averaging in the 300's. Russ' church will be 4 years old this Sunday and they are running mid 100's I believe.

What I took away from our meeting was that while we may not be where I thought we would at one year we are doing very well. We are right where each of these other churches were at one year. In fact, where our giving is concerned we are averagaing about $14 per person, per week in attendance for the year - that's incredible!!!

Now, we do need to look at some of the things we are doing and re-evaluate what we're doing verses what we really want to do (good exercise!) and I'm starting to get ready for our first annual meeting which we'll have in January.

So, pat yourselves on the back, We are doing a good job and most importantly, we are doing exactly what God wants of us! Have a great Thursday!

Acts 22 / Oct 8 - You were chosen

When I asked Andi to marry me and she said "yes" (and yes she said it right away and didn't have to ponder or question!) I felt like the richest guy in the world! I was so happy, so wanted, so wonderful! (okay, that was mushy)... um...I felt really, really good.

Everyone wants to be wanted. Everyone wants to be included. Everyone wants to be chosen. I know it may be hard for you to believe but there have been a few times in my life when I was the last chosen...picked by default.

I want you to know today, in the middle of the week, in the midst of all the junk you are going through, that you ARE wanted. You ARE chosen. You ARE just the one He's looking for.

In Acts 22 there are a just a few lines that stick in my mind...I can't get off these two statements. The first came from Jesus (yes, Jesus was the one talking to Paul (Saul) in the light). And there through the light Jesus speaks to a man who is "persecuting Him." And there Jesus makes this incredible statement, "you will be told all that you have been assigned to do." That word, assigned, is just incredible. And it's not just for Paul.

The second statement that draws me in comes from Ananias when he says "God...has chosen you." Wow! Two statements, two words, assigned and chosen.

Here's what you need to catch. Your name might not be Paul, but YOU have also been ASSIGNED a role in the kingdom. I believe mine is to preach and through the Spirit, lead Christ's church. I'm not sure what yours is but I KNOW that God has an assignment for you. YOU have been chosen. In fact, the Bible in another place says that you and I were chosen by God. God desperately wants you to know Him and His Will (Word) and to live and do what you have been assigned to do.

You are here because you were chosen and you have an assigned task or several (Andi is great musically and she does an incredible job speaking to women about faith and family - though you might not know it!). So this is YOU: CHOSEN/ASSIGNED

See you tomorrow!

Habakkuk part II - In the Dip

In this message Corey Habakkuk answers the question, "what do you do when you're in the spiritual dip?" You've been there before and if you haven't you will be. When what you see in your life doesn't line up with what you believe about your faith or about God you're in the dip. Here's what you can do to help yourself make it through the dip so that you can have the opportunity to mature in your faith and grow closer to God.

Just a little interesting

Didn't want to let this get away so wanted to write it down. In this case you all get to share it with me!

It was about 11:15 - 11:30 when I was getting off the plane in Wichita last night (Friday). I was extremely tired. Hungry. And ready to be home...but alas (throw back to the old days) I had to get my car out of the long-term parking and drive it home.

So I get my bag and head out to the parking lot, no big deal...except I can't remember where I parked. I was in a hurry when I got there on Wednesday morning so I just jumped out and grabbed my stuff and headed for the US Airways terminal.

Now it's late, my eyes hurt, I'm tired and I don't know where I parked. Besides that I had just spent three days in Vegas...which a lot of people would have thought was cool...not me. I wanted my wife. Was surrounded by sex and sin or at least the opportunity to do either, which could be both. I just felt bad...spiritually and emotionally and physically.

So, here I am walking in the near dark looking for my car carrying all my bags which were getting heavy and not having much luck.

I stopped to put the shoulder strap back on my duffel bag since I had taken it off when I checked it ($15) and started to put it on. I kind of bent over and stuck the bag between my legs while I messed with the clasp...one side done...then had to take a step, turn the bag and click the other side. While in that motion I just said God, I know where I've been and I know that You have no good reason to, but I would like to find my sub...

Yeah. You know what happened. As I was bent over and in mid-prayer I looked up and having taken that extra step to secure the strap to the other side of the bag it put me in just the right spot to see the bumper sticker that says "God said it...that settles it" on the back window of the suburban.

I stood up, smiled at God and said, "thank you."

Acts 17 / October 3 - "O, woah, close to you..."

I am sitting in the airport watching people mill around and and talk and a guy just asked a lady across the aisle for the sports page...there is a lady sitting directly opposite me (my back) who has a pony tail and she keeps moving her head and flicking me with it...she has no idea. There are people speaking other languages and on their cell phones. Old and young. Male and female. Poor and wealthy, modest and darn near exhibitionistic.
And guess what? Acts 17 says that God is right here. In the midst of all this commotion and the constant din of slot machines and conversations He's here.
It's easy to forget that sometimes with all the commotion in our lives...easy for me this last three days... but He never left, right there the whole time.

I wonder how many know Him? I wonder who He is talking to right how? Anyone? Me? You?

God, help me to never loose sight of the fact that you are right here, every moment, every day. You desire to be in every thought, every decision. You see what I see and you hear what I hear and know what I think. Help me not to disappoint.

I'll see you all Sunday, a little happier. a little poorer and perhaps a little closer.

Habakkuk 1 - Sept 28, 2008

You see it every day. Bad people, taking advantage of the weak. Good people hurting. The innocent, suffering. War. Injustice.

Does it ever seem like God is unfair?

Join us for the next two weeks as we continue to look at the life of Habakkuk for the inspiration we need to continue, when God seems unfair.

what a day...

Well folks, I made it to Las Vegas. It is an incredible town but I noticed a few things.
1. The glitz of Vegas is seen by most at night. But at night you have a more difficult time seeing the garbage. Trash on the street, tons of construction and mess. The size and beauty of the buildings is matched only by the stark contrast of empty lots, homeless and a dirty underbelly to this glamorous city.
2. The people here work really hard to keep their hotels and casinos clean and looking very nice, tons of money on construction and amenities...but as soon as you walk out side and off hotel property (walking the strip) you are faced with potentially hundreds of men and women silently and persistently trying to get you to take a small business card with their "escort" service information on it. I walked down one side of the strip today, about a mile total (there and back) and was confronted by at least 50 of these people.
3. I met a guy who looked like Jesus. Well, he had the robe and the sandals (Nike) and a beard and he began to speak to us about how the Lord had come to America because we needed him the most because of places like Vegas (he called it Babylon) and how we needed to repent and not be here but find better places to go. And it all sounded good...until he said that we needed to make sure we only ate vegetables because God loves the animals too and He created them. I almost stopped and said, have you ever even read the Bible?

So here is my synopsis.
1. If you want to be tempted there is no better place then Vegas.
2. All the glitz and glamour can't hide the stain of sin.
3. If Jesus came to Vegas he would love people and help them find life...not tell them to become vegetarians.

I love you Andi. wish you were here with me...or better yet, wish I were there with you.

God protect me and every believer who comes to this town and buys into the lie that you can do things here and no one has to know. What happens in Vegas...just might stay with you the rest of your life.

PS. I actually thought about getting a tattoo while I am here. That way I can say, what happens in Vegas (the tattoo) stays with you...whether you can see it or not! What do you think?! Any ideas! it would be a great conversation starter and lead to a great object lesson!

What do you think I should get honey?