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The Mystery of Gifts

2011-11-30T15:24:00.000-08:00

All right, December is finally here! This is the time of year where we do things we don’t normally get to do. We celebrate the birth of Jesus, spend time with family, sing Christmas carols, laugh and rest as we spread Christmas cheer, and turn our heart toward those less fortunate. All these type of things are great things to do during December. Let me add one more thing to the list of those things that we try to do this month. What about giving?

December should be a month where we renew ourselves to the most unique and fulfilling benefit of being a believer in Jesus…giving. When you think about the love that God extended to us through the savior and forgiveness of sins, it is truly a gift. For God so loved the world, that He GAVE. Now as we walk in the newness of Christ we are transformed daily into His image, so we must also practice giving.

There are many ways to give. This Christmas season let us be challenged to give from our selves. There are ways that you can give from the depth of your soul to someone else that would renew and refresh them. It does not always have to involve money. What about your time, a verbal expression of love, sharing testimony of the power of God as He is working in your life, a good deed, or a special creative act of service. We often forget that people all around us are hurting and in need of encouragement. Giving means to be attentive to others and willing to step into places of vulnerability regardless of the cost. That is what God gave us when Jesus was born. Let me help you by giving you a list of questions to ponder in order to identify opportunities for giving in your life.

Ask yourself…
What has God done in my life recently…what have I seen in His Word?
Who is there around me that I know is hurting, discouraged, or in need?
How can I pour myself (with personal interaction) into their lives to build them up and bless them?
Who do I know that needs to be nourished by the touch of another person?
What sacrifice can I make in order to truly benefit someone else in some way?

As we ask ourselves these questions, remember that it is the obedient act of giving that places us in the divine flow of the abundant grace of God. It is not as much what you are able to actually do or not do…it is the power of God multiplied through you as you are willing to do it! The benefit is for others as we give. However, God powerfully transforms us as we do so. It is a blessing all the way around. That is the mysterious wonder of giving.

“And if you give yourself to the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, Then your light will rise in darkness and your gloom will become like midday. And the Lord will continually guide you, and satisfy your desire in scorched places, and give strength to your bones; and you will be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water whose waters do not fail…you will be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of the streets in which to dwell” Isaiah 58:10-12.

Let’s give this Christmas season. May the focus of our lives and hearts be outwardly oriented. Pray that God would use us to extend His grace to others. Others…others…others. That is what December should be all about.

Have a very merry Christmas

Give me God

2011-10-11T08:42:00.000-07:00

I was recently reading Psalm 90, and the Lord deeply impressed me to desire Him more. I have made this observation over the years: It is when my desires are filled with all the offerings of the world that I am most confused. All those things have a certain appeal. They seem to fill a longing or occupy our minds. But, what really happens is that we become numb. It is only the desire of God and the things of God that fills our hearts with life. That is what Jesus means when He says, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life." What does it take for you to get a place where the desire of your heart is for God? Do you have to slow down? Do you need to hear His heart? Will you be able to put to death those things which steal your affections from Him?
For me, it started again with hearing these sweet words in Psalm 90:16-17

"Let Your work appear to Your servants,
And the glory to their children.
And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us;
Yes, establish the work of our hands."

If we will just pray and ask God to pour Himself out upon us, He will! Pray for eyes to see who God is and what He is doing. Ask Him for His glory to be poured out upon us, our children, and our church. Seek in prayer for the beauty of the Lord...you won't have to look very hard. He is incredibly beautiful, and His fame is all around us. Hey readers, spit out the bitter nasty junk of the worldly and taste and see that the Lord is good. Then, just surrender to who He is and His plans. His work will establish your actions.

I don't want anything else today. Give me God.

Sweet Juice!

2011-09-10T12:35:00.000-07:00

OK, I am kinda weird. My new saying when startled or disgruntled is "Sweet Juice!" It sounds funny to those around me who may be listening (although If you think about it, "Holy Cow" is a little strange). Let me tell you what I'm learning that brought this new exclamation about.

Recently, I have been going through some rather trying times. There are some circumstances in my life that just keep pressing in with no relief in sight. It is one of those times where you cry out to God, "Help!" And He seems just silent. Because I know what the Bible teaches, I resolve to simply keep walking in and trusting Him. I know what to do when it seems like there is no provision in sight...pray, read the Word, obey God when He speaks, walk faithfully one step at a time, and don't complain. After some discussion with my lovely wife, I realized that I was complaining quite a bit. So, I stopped. That should fix it. Right?

Not exactly. One morning in my quiet time with the Lord He showed me how much I was still internally anxious. My fear had turned to quiet frustration. And, that has now grown into silent bitterness. Even though I don't say anything about it, my heart is still sour. I still feel inside like I don't deserve these circumstances. I realized that as the circumstances continue to press in all around me, that bitterness would show up in unexpected ways. It's like when Oswald Chambers talks about being crushed grapes and poured out wine. When the circumstances or pressures in life press in from all around, you will be squeezed into juice. The only question is what kind of juice? Is it bitter and foul tasting to others around you - giving absolutely no glory to God? Or, is it sweet and glorious showing the greatness of God to all those He has placed in your life?

The pressing circumstances and crisis in your life do not have to destroy you. They will press in and cause something to come out, though. Paul says it this way, "We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken...that the life of Jeus also may be manifested in our body." (2 Cor 4:8).

So, I am practicing the discipline of surrendering my heart and mind to the Holy Spirit when pressed in from all sides. Then, I can trust that what comes flowing out of me will be the fruit of the Spirit...SWEET JUICE!

ISRAEL STUDY TOUR

2011-08-26T13:56:00.000-07:00

A lot of people ask me, "why is it such a big deal to go to Israel?" I must admit, it is one of my favorite topics of discussions. Now, don't get me wrong...you are not somehow "less than" anyone else because you can't afford such a trip. We should be careful not to assign some kind of spiritual eliteness to those who are fortunate enough to travel to the Holy Land. So, if you are just not able to go...I still love you!

That being said, a trip to Israel can be one of the most life transformational journeys you can take on this earth. It is not just a nostalgic tip toe through the places where Jesus walked (although, that is not so bad). We live in a day and age where the distractions to the faithful Christian life are abundant. In America, we can hardly get out of bed and start the day before being bombarded by a onslaught of self preserving, flesh pleasing, and instantly gratifying offers to just ignore God and do our own thing. Like, the Israelites of the Old Testament, we need some physical forms of remembrance and tangible life experiences to help keep us focused.

That is where a study tour can really help. There is nothing like actually seeing the geography and learning the mysteries of the land to help form a lasting impression in your heart. When the Bible actually comes to life from studying the lessons and reading the text in the actual spot, you tend to make it more real in your mind. For example, standing on the temple mount one day, I found myself so overwhelmed with the reality that God is Holy and He will return one day soon, that I just wept. That helps to guide me to be faithful and heavenly minded still today!

In short, a study tour through the Holy Land can be one of the most powerful experiences in aiding us to remember that God is sovereign and He really loves us. It can make a huge difference in your walk with God. And, there is so much to learn that otherwise would be so difficult to see.

Come with me if you long to experience God in a whole new and fresh way....Come to Israel!

CLICK HERE FOR BROCHURE

For more information on my Israel study tours, click the link to my travel blog under "loud links" on the sidebar below.

God Works!

2011-05-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

Yup, I am convinced of it. God works in the unexpected and the unusual. I am getting to the place where I have finally embraced the fact that the journey of life with God will not be common. As much as I try to bend God to fit what I expect to find...He never bends or breaks. He does things that are much bigger than me. I am glad!

The journey of a disciple is fun and exciting. I think we forget that life is about exploration and discovery...discovery of the awesomeness of God. The Lord leads us in the divinely thrilling balance of ordinary every day stuff and the great awesomeness of His works. Its cool how meeting a neighbor (pretty ordinary) can lead to seeing God do powerful things. Or, unexpected financial difficulty can lead to knowing God more personally as a Father. Or, when He supernaturally changes circumstances around us.

This we know for sure: God is working in huge ways every day to reveal Himself to His people and to the world. God is great, right? Well, Psalm 86:10 says, "For you are great, AND DO WONDROUS THINGS; You alone are God". It is the very nature of God's greatness that results in wondrous things - works - acts. Have you seen any lately? Have you experienced Him doing wonderful things personally...in your life? Why not? It has always been His way to do great things. All throughout the Bible we have record of this great God working in amazing ways. But, as amazing as they are, these things are always part of someone's practical everyday life. God has done this over and over and over. He did not stop when the Bible was completed and written. It is going on right now.

Here are a couple of very simple things to remember in order to experience His great works:

* Look to God every day
* Watch for God in the ordinary circumstances in life
* Expect God to lead from the ordinary to the unexpected and unusual
* List the things in your life that seem to lead you where He alone must work
* Identify areas in your life that limit you by keeping you unavailable for change and new stuff
* Read God's promises daily - post them in view all around you (on the refrigerator, bathroom mirror, car dashboard, etc)
* Remember what God wants to do in this world...He is big, so think big.

Osama Bin Laden is an enemy destroyed

2011-05-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

I must admit, I was as surprised as most of the rest of the world to hear the news that Osama Bin Laden was not only found, but killed. Like so many others, I truly believed that he got away and would never be found. There were so many places to hide and so many supporters willing to die protecting him. In addition, the world economy, geopolitical pressures, and diversified threats made it seem as though any substantial hunt for Bin Laden could not be sustained. People are generally forgetful and lazy. It seemed like most of our nation had already forgotten what horror and pain Bin Laden had orchestrated on innocent people. Practically speaking there was no real hope that we would see justice for all this nutball has done.

However, there is one thing that I forgot. God avenges and subdues His enemies! God does not forget or relent. Remember, before Osama Bin Laden was our enemy...before he was Israel's enemy...he was God's enemy. He rose himself up and stood as a self proclaimed enemy of the one true God. The reason Bin Laden hated and sought to destroy Christians, Christian nations, and Jews is not because of what we believe, but who we believe in. Our God is a God of love and peace. The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is a God who reveals righteousness and defends the helpless. He has compassion and offers Himself freely for all who will receive Him. Ok, Bin Laden didn't like that. In fact, he hated that! Osama Bin Laden set himself against God and thereby slaughtered innocent people. Also, he had a keen hatred for the chosen people of God - Israel. That is why God destroyed him.

Can we rejoice? Can we celebrate the death and eternal suffering of this man's soul? I hear so much controversy on this subject. There are all kinds of wrong answers. Why? Because it is the wrong question. The real question is can celebrate God's righteousness, justice, and faithfulness? And the answer is...YES! I am glad God is just and will always defend the helpless. I am glad God is able to put His enemies under His feet. I rejoice that God subdues those who raise up against Him. As the Psalmist says, "I have pursued my enemies and over taken them; Neither did I turn back again till they were destroyed...You have subdued under me those who rose up against me. You have also given me the necks of my enemies, So that I destroyed those who hated me" Ps 19:37-40. The enemy referred to here was against King David the one who was called to stand as God's standard bearer. They were also God's enemies. That is why David then said, "Therefore I will give thanks to You, O Lord, among the gentiles, And sing praises to Your name" (v. 49). Again, praise God! He is good, and He is able to prevail against evil.

Every man, woman, and child would do well to note that God always institutes justice. We will all be exposed for our transgressions against Holy God. The only hope any of us have is the wonderful grace offered by God Himself in the death, burial, and resurrection of His son...for us! In the mean time, God alone determines when enough is enough.

Surfing the Waves

2011-03-09T10:58:00.000-08:00

One of those things I have always wanted to learn how to do is surf. It is so cool to watch those guys carving out a ride on huge waves of rolling ocean power. They just seem to glide seamlessly and smoothly on top of all that energy using it to for their own thrill. Growing up in Southern California, I had plenty of experience with ocean waves. All I ever seem to get is the face planting force of the surf as it shoves me into the sand below. Seriously, I have come stumbling up on the beach and out of the water cleaning sand out of my teeth on more than one occasion.

Here is what I have learned first hand: If your not on top of it the surf can be a relentless force of opposition that takes all your energy and always leaves you exhausted.

Here is what surfers tell me: If your not under neath it fighting for your life, the surf can be an opportunity for an exhilarating experience giving you a sense of victory and accomplishment.

Let me apply this to everyday living. There are always waves in life. How do I know that? Because their are always storms and natural forces at work that are beyond our control. I think of the disciples in the boat with Jesus as a storm arose. Or, Peter walking on the water to Join Jesus. In both cases it was the wind and waves that was against them. The waves caused fear. This is very clearly an analogy to everyday life. There will always be storms because the world is under the sway of the wicked one. It is fallen and destructive by curse. The natural force of sin prevailing in the world around us will stir up great storms. The unreliability of the heart of man (even church going christians) will produce inevitable waves of conflict. We must realize this. These forces of opposition are allowed and even used by God.

In our own church, we have experienced the recent storm of conflict. I have many friends and companions in life today who are facing the blustery force of wind and waves. Unpleasant circumstances keep blowing against them, difficulty and persecution crash over their heads, misunderstanding and mistreatment relentlessly belay their forward progress. It is hard to just float and enjoy life with these blasted waves that just keep coming. Do you feel like that? Well, guess what? That is exactly what gives you and I the potential for truly walking with the Lord. There is victory...super victory that is possible. The Bible says, "Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us" (Romans 8:37). The word for conquerors actually means "more than conquerors" or "super-conquerors". It's an amazing promise when you consider the "things" referred to in the beginning of that verse. Shall tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, or sword separate you from the love that Christ gives you? No, but IN ALL THESE THINGS... you shall be super-conquerors. In other words, you will ride these waves that would otherwise pummel and drown you. Oswald Chambers puts it like this, "The surf that distresses the ordinary swimmer produces in the surf-rider the super-joy of going clean through it.

I wonder if we might believe the truths of God's Word here. We don't experience the super joy and exhilaration of walking with Jesus in spite of all these troubles (waves), but through them...because of them...on them. Each set of difficult circumstances or relationship conflicts are the very waves that we need to ride on top of to find a love we can never otherwise experience. They are the force that can be conquered and used to ride into gracious living (Jesus' love). On those waves we learn to give His love, experience the contentment of His practical abiding presence, and gain genuine intimacy with Him. In our conflict with others we can find the Lord and rise far above the common bickering, biting, and bitterness to ride His grace and power so that it positively affects other lives around us.

Come on! Don't cower because of past experiences...don't duck in fear of being exposed...don't back away in seclusion and isolation. Keep your eyes on Him who walks the waves and step up into His love. Face those waves with His steps and get on top. It is promised to thrill your heart and give glory to God.

Let's go surfing!

What is the church supposed to look like?

2011-03-01T09:35:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking a lot lately about Church and what it should look like. It is amazing to me (actually frustrating) that it is so difficult to look into the Scriptures without my preconceived ideas about Church. I have learned to presuppose my experiences and expectations into the texts. My denominational culture, tradition, and training invade my thinking whenever I try to imagine what the true Biblical church should look like. What does the Bible say it should look like? What did the first church look like when James, Peter, and John were the leaders? Does it matter? Are churches supposed to look that way today? Are they all supposed to look the same?

What if we just looked through the Bible to find out what this "Church" really is as if we had never heard or seen anything about it before. What would we learn?

Well, I am not there yet. But, here is a new revelation for me. The Church is spiritually dynamic. That means that we are a called out family of disciples who follow the Lord Jesus right where we are. The Bible doesn't actually say we shouldn't meet in larger gatherings ... it doesn't say how many people make up a small community group ... it doesn't give any instructions about how often to meet together, how many homes to meet in, or how many people should connect locally as the body. It does say we follow Him daily to love one another, serve people, and share the Gospel in a hands on manner to the world around us.

Here is the point: It may look different in every setting. It may have 2 or 3 people in community reaching their neighbors. It may be 10 - 12 people in community reaching a workplace. It may be several small communities networked together to reach a people group or region. These disciples may meet on a Sunday (or other day) for larger group celebration/Worship, or they may not. The real issue has to do with Jesus freely moving in our midst. Jesus will lead His followers to die to themselves and give their lives to one another. It should allow Him to speak, lead, and move in powerful ways...even ways that have never been experienced before. Any structure, limitation, or manner of organization that limits that is wrong!

The key is to organize ourselves in such a way as to maintain our essential DNA and Biblical imperatives...while at the same time allowing liberty for the Spirit to move in distinct and separate ways. I shudder to think of all the times we have responded to some authentic and powerful fresh movement of the Spirit of God by saying, "Well that is just not church". Friends, it very likely will look nothing like anything we have been part of before. Church as we know it is preventing Church as God wants it. Consider the following findings...

1. Did you know there is actually more Biblical evidence for the church meeting in homes than in a central building location?
2. Did you know there is more Biblical church instruction that applies to being together throughout the week than when
gathered on a Sunday morning?
3. Did you know there is Biblical evidence to support the fact that the churches of different cities and regions varied in
organization and structure from one another?

One final thought. I am more convinced than ever that relationships are one of those DNA imperatives. The church of the Lord Jesus must involve true, genuine, more-than-superficial, love relationships. This is an imperative. Listen, there are some things that make up being the church - and without them it is simply not the church. This is my big objection with the lukewarm commercial church that exists in America today. In many cases they are built on a centralized effort to exalt the large, but shallow numerical growth of a Sunday service and its' related programs. The result is fostering anemic relationships that actually prevent the intimate, accountable, sin confronting, grace necessitating, one-anothering, life sharing relationships that must be the DNA of every Biblical Church. This is the context every New Testament epistle written to His church.

Look through the pages of your Bible with fresh new eyes. Try to examine the Scriptures about what the Church should look like without your preconceived notions and past experiences. It is hard! But, it is also liberating.

Good News from the Crisis in Egypt

2011-02-08T10:57:00.000-08:00

Any one following the news and current events from Egypt will agree that these are very formidable times for that great historic country. We all sympathize with those who have suffered in such great poverty and injustice. It seems like such bad news. Some of us can even be caught turning the t.v channel (and therefore our attention) away from the constant barrage of horrible scenes.

Please allow me to share some perspective that may be helpful. Egypt is also the focus of really "good news" As is the case so many times in the history of the Gospel being taken to the uttermost parts of the world, severe persecution is a blessing. Both the difficulty from suffering and the heightened worldwide awareness are leading to an incredible growth and strengthening of Christians in Egypt. It is reported that in some of the villages south of Cairo the poverty level is worse that has ever been seen anywhere - - worse than in India, Afghanistan, and the Palestinian refugee camps in southern Lebanon. But, you would not know that these villages house some of the most committed followers of Jesus. They seem as if they don't have a care in the world. Their worship is passionate and their love for Jesus is overwhelming to many church leaders who have visited them in recent days.

Egyptians are coming to trust in Jesus Christ, growing strong in their faith, pastors are being trained, disciples are being made, and the church is growing as a whole throughout the country. According to leaders of the Joshua fund, one ministry saw some 3,100 people pray to receive Christ and numerous churches planted throughout these southern villages in 2010. These believers are growing in maturity at incredible paces. Many have left family, home, and safety to take the gospel to other parts of Egypt.

What is my point? We don't need worldly ease, success, and comfort to be the Lord's church. In fact, there are so many times in history where just the opposite is true. The church is most successfully glorifying God in the most difficult of times. It seems to me that is no coincidence. Where does that leave us here in this country? We expend every imaginable effort to avoid discomfort. We feel that we are not successful until we reach a certain standard of physical living. We are fat! I am coming more to believe that leanness is the battleground for God's great victories. It doesn't mean we all have to be desperately poor and violently persecuted. But, we can focus our life to reflect one single passion...at the expense of all other passions...to give up our own pursuit of life and give it all to the glory of God.

You want some freedom? Let go of the demand you have deep within your soul for comfort and ease. Embrace giving, serving, and loving. It is all right if it costs you everything! Folks, we are waaaaay too lazy. You have one life to live. To lose it for Christ is not to waste it. Thank you to the poorest of the poor refuges in Egypt for showing me that.

No More Casual Approach To God

2011-01-05T10:51:00.000-08:00

I have spent a lot of time lately thinking about how I approach God. Let me first explain how I got there. Then, I will share a few thoughts on the subject.

It all started with an honest look at what we are supposed to do on Sunday mornings. Recently in our community group we asked the question, "Why should we gather on Sundays?" Finding a good answer to this question is hard if you are really honest. I mean, there are countless good ideas and books full of differing suggestions. But, what about the mandates? What does the Bible really say about what is essential, required, and absolutely commanded for Sunday morning? My own discoveries reveal that much of what we think are commands for Sunday morning are actually historical and traditional expectations. Don't get me wrong...there are many very clear commands and instructions for the church in God's Word. But, few (if any) of them are specific and exclusive to Sunday morning.

So, it was my next question that really led me to contemplate my approach to God. "What makes Sunday morning different from other gatherings of the church?" Just to be clear, I do not have an adequate answer to that question. I have many ideas. But, I cannot back them up with specific contextual passages of Scripture. As I considered a community approach to God (in other words, when we all gather together for an encounter with Him), it struck me that God does desire to reveal Himself to us in very special and unique ways. He always has. God's holiness demands an audience. He not only desires a personal private relationship with each one of us, He also desires a public gathered encounter. This is where we can often express our unified awe of His majesty. Purposed gatherings of His people are to offer up the sacrifice of praise as it is amplified by multiple voices. Songs are to be sung harmoniously in a chorus of exaltation. Prayers are to be prayed in unity of the Spirit, and testimonies are to be shared together for all to hear in His presence so that the entire church can immediately turn to Him and magnify His greatness in some public expression. It occurs to me that these are times when our tender and merciful heavenly Father is also recognized as the mighty and powerful God of the universe and all that is. If I lack those times, then it may be that my approach to God has become way too causal.

So...my approach to God. I am grateful for my own personal relationship with Jesus. He is so faithful and satisfying to me. He meets me in quiet times of refreshment, replenishment, and even repentance. But, sometimes He also seems very distant. I wonder if that is because I become too casual in my approach to Him. Doesn't it seem as though even Jesus had the greatest amount of respect, awe, and reverence before the Father? It doesn't matter if it is Sunday morning or Thursday evening, God the Father cannot be taken casually.

I read the following statement this week: People who are flippant and disrespectful in their approach to God - have not truly been in His presence. So, I am currently identifying ways that I (we) might be flippant and disrespectful. Let me share three of them with you:

1. When we assign human attributes to God
2. When we become caloused, apathetic, or self centered toward His people
3. When we enter into His presence on our own terms

These are all ways we approach God too flippantly. I shudder to think that these are things I display on a regular basis. And, that could mean that I have not really been in His presence. It is one of those viscious cycles that leads us to feel distant from God. We approach Him flippantly, the results are missing the benefits of His close presence, which leads to feeling more distant and becoming more flippant in our approach to Him. And so on...and so on...and so on.

You may want to do some evaluation of your own. Are there ways that you approach God that are far too flippant or disrespectful? Remember who He is and what He says before you answer that question. Be careful not to compare God to man.
I am so glad that God is always ready to reveal Himself. We can go behind the veil. But, it may require some confession and humility. That is what our salvation is all about. But, I am also wondering if there should be times of high and holy reverence as we gather to encounter God. Are there things we can do to prepare ourself for that? Is there something we can do to be real and authentic in our reverent approach to Him? I don't want to miss God's magnificent presence.

See you there!

Cole-Slaw: Just how sick we really are

2010-12-08T10:31:00.000-08:00

Cole-Slaw: Just how sick we really are: "It has recently dawned on me that we really have no idea whatsoever what living in true community is. Perhaps the most telling symptom is fo..."

Love God and Then Love Others

2010-11-30T09:43:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite Oswald Chamber's quotes:
Disciples of the Lord and defenders of the faith are inclined to be bitter until they learn to walk in the light of the Lord. When you have learned to walk in the light of the Lord, bitterness and contention are impossible.

I have just a simple thought today. It occurs to me that there is a very tangible test of our love for God in this life. It is the one true test of our abiding love in the Father. How do we know if we are truly abiding in God's love?

It is not how much we say we love Him...
It is not how "right" we are...
It is not how many acts of kindness we do...

It is how we love one another. The first and second greatest commandment are linked. Jesus said, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And, the second is like it: love your neighbor as yourself." It is interesting to note that the phrase He uses for "is like it" can actually mean corresponding to. It is the idea of a mirror image. So, the second commandment (love others) corresponds to and is found in the image of the first (loving God).

Love God, and then you will be able to love others. Love God, and you will be compelled to love others. Love God, and you will have no choice but to love others. If you and I are not loving others...we have a loving God problem.

There often arises, in sharing life together through Biblical community, conflict and strife. This conflict comes because we are all still adversely affected by our sin. Sin exalts self . As a result we love ourselves rather than others as ourselves. Without a daily renewal of our love for God, our conflict with other people becomes a dark shadow of confusion and oppression instead of an opportunity for light and grace. It is so refreshing to find the unexplainable peace that results from a fresh, intimate, and personal love for the Lord. Find your way to Him this week. Love Him with all that you are. And, allow that to flow into the "one anothers" of your life.

"with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love" - Ephesians 4:2

Robbed of the secret gift

2010-11-27T10:12:00.000-08:00

The point of my current blogging series about being robbed is to not only point out the flaw in our "religious system", but to also point out our own discrepancies as well. In my own life I have found, the things which are potentially so powerful (that I am robbed of) are those things that I have willingly given up. Why? Because they are the hard things. In other words, we are often robbed of really cool stuff because we take the easy road.
This is definitely true with the next subject of my discussion. We are robbed of accountability. Now, accountability isn't so much a Bible word as it is a Bible truth. It is the concept of my life, choices, attitudes, actions, and words being genuinely compared to the standard of God's Word. When I am accountable, it means that I have some place or person to answer to. Now, let me just stop a common argument right now before I continue. There are some that would firmly respond, "I am not accountable to anyone but God...I don't answer to people". That statement is only half true. We are all accountable to God and His ways, but it is God's way for us to be interdependently connected to one another for accountability to Him. It is my personal community of disciples (Body of Christ) that points me back to the perfect standard of God's Word. That is exactly what Jesus created with His disciples. I need that...God desires that.
We are so often robbed of this beautiful gift. We desperately need a community of close relationships that proclaim and reflect truth. The really powerful part of that is what happens when it is brought into our lives corporately. There is a sweet and effective guiding in our life that only occurs when it is given through a "Body" of believers. When each part humbly fits in the body, there is a manifold benefit...a "profit for all" (1Cor 12:7).
When do I resist accountability...good, spiritual, gracious accountability? We don't want accountability when we are wrong. Usually this will show up in our lives when we are wrong and one of the following:
1) We are wrong and we don't want to admit it. It is amazing how long we will hold on to a poisonous attitude or view point because we don't want to have the appearance of making a mistake. Many of us would just keep on justifying our darkness by trying to portray it in a different light. Well, as you know, the Bible says there is no darkness in light. We can't hold our "mistakes" in any position that would make it look good. The tragedy is that all the while we are hurting ourselves and the people closest to us. You see, accountability gives us the place to confess that and cleanse ourselves. We see it like we never would before because there are others in our life who are close enough to point us back to light.
2.) We are wrong and we don't see it. When I look back at all the really bad choices in my life, I see that most of the time I did not see the danger or wrong perspective at the time. Because God knows that we are weak and prone to wandering, He gave us a build in guidance system. People in our lives can often see more clearly because they are not affected by our personal issues or emotions. Accountability can provide an unbiased pathway towards pure righteousness.
The whole key is to come together and allow ourselves to be accountable. When things get confusing, difficult, or uncertain is the worst time to not come together. That is when we need the mysterious positive benefit of being immersed in a community that agrees God's way is right whatever it is. There are time where just being together in life as the body brings the accountability of right perspective and attitude like we could never imagine. It is unexplainable.
So, here are some practical steps to help us benefit from accountability:
- Embrace people in close community where everyone agrees that they are accountable to God with each other
- Talk often in your community about God's ways and what is right
- Admit when you are wrong to your community - even when you think it will make you look less than them
- Come together with your community especially during those times where you want to the least
- Let your heart be touched and directed by the influence of others in your community - they are not on the "other side"
Stop being robbed! You don't have to give up the glorious gift and blessing. It is intended to bring luscious fulfilling fruit into your life. Don't take the easy road by isolating yourself and backing away from those people God has put in your life. You will miss it.

Robbed by Walls

2010-10-23T10:13:00.000-07:00

I am amazed at how God's ways are filled with paradox. They are often exactly the opposite of what we think would make the most sense. This is exactly the case with another area that robs of the great success of disciple living. I am talking about our walls. First, the paradox. To prevent from being robbed, it seems prudent to put up high walls and mechanisms of defense. That's how they did it before alarm systems. But, this is exactly what is causing us to be robbed as disciples. We are robbed of the interdependent intimate connection with people!

It really takes some really honest and brave thinking to see this. Most of us are so influenced by western civilization thinking, that we can't even imagine anything different. There was a day when people lived together in such interdependence that their lives were actually lived "together". It was the hellenistic (Greek) influence of independent thought and personal rights that began this development of private walled-off living in society. Don't get me wrong...we benefit from privacy and time alone. However, we also benefit greatly from living out our lives intimately, together. That is what we are missing.

Basically, we live in such a way as to never really need other people. We see them, socialize with them, go to church with them, and maybe even share some of our time with them. But we will never get so close and dependent upon them, that we would suffer greatly without them. Our greatest fears are to be in such a place where people can see our true character, our failures, and our weaknesses. As a result, most of us engineer (work really hard to create) relationships so that they can produce the most personal benefit with the least amount of personal cost. We want people in our lives, but we don't really want our lives in people. For the most part, our connection with other people is convenient and comfortable.

Oh, man we are really being cheated!! The problem here is that the greatest value and impact that comes from being a true disicple of Christ is found in real relationships. We must really depend upon people to discover the "one anothers" of the New Testament...even though they will fail you. It's not that we replace them with Jesus Himself, but our expression of Jesus' love is always pointed to others. He said, "love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and with all your strength. Then, he said, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself". That implies that my relationships with people are inseparably linked to my love for God. Think about it. If you love God - the God of the Bible - with everything you are, that will drastically affect how available you are for other people. You cannot love God with all you are and keep people at a distance.

In addition, relationships with people in life are supposed to be the practicing grounds for growing in godliness. When I am most vulnerable and transparent with others in my life, I begin to really understand the strength of Christ. When I sin against others because they are so close that they really find out who I am, then I depend upon grace like never before. When others are close enough to see that I don't always have everything together, then I am living in a genuine accountability that causes me to be diligent in "working out my salvation with fear and trembling". When others are so much a part of my everyday living, that I have to be there for them and with them - even when I don't really want to be around people, then I am confronted with my selfishness in a place where I can really crucify it.

I am going to make another bold statement. I don't think we can really truly deny ourselves, take up our crosses, and follow Him, until we take down all the walls of protection and independence we have barricaded ourselves with. Those walls are essentially the obstacles to real discovery and vulnerability that are critically necessary in "denying yourself". Why do we claim to be disciples of Jesus when we have so thoroughly engineered our lives so that we rarely have to go to the place where He called us to live. It is hypocrisy.

Now, this is tough. Our entire culture is built around this kind of independence and self preservation. Living life together is a hard thing to do in todays world. It requires simplicity...it requires radical change in lifestyle and priorities...it requires a common level of commitment with at least a small group of others. You can't do this alone. Find a group of people who want to enter into the real places of living life as disciples. Then, agree together that you will be in one another's life all week long and without reservation. Be very intentional to set the standards and guidelines of relating to one another FROM SCRIPTURE. That means that we live in preference to one another, serving one another, and full of grace towards one another.

When this happens we will see some of the missing glory that should result from being true disciples. You and I need to be forced to live as a "new creation in Christ" by the circumstances of being interdependent and vulnerable with other people. It is there that these things of the Spirit really come to life. You will revel at the newfound discover that you no longer have to try to manufacture the appearance of really walking with Christ. This is where they really come to life. Then, and only then, you can become a witness to the world around you for the gospel. They will know you as disciples of this great and glorious savior...by your love for one another.

Robbed by Success

2010-10-07T10:26:00.001-07:00

I love to watch a good espionage mystery movie. You know, the ones where you never really know who the bad guy is until the very end. Just when I think I am clever enough to figure it all out...BAM! It is the guy (or gal) I least expected...usually someone on the inside. I love that...in the movies. However, It's not so much fun when that happens in real life. That's the way it is with this first thief of truth in our way of thinking. The thief? Success!

Success seems like such a noble and desirable notion. I mean, shouldn't we strive for success? That seems harmless enough. Everyone should be successful, shouldn't they? Well, that depends on what we are being successful at. The idea of success all alone is a very good one. But, somehow we have allowed the idea of success to become synonymous with what the world thinks is successful. That is why it's like the espionage mystery. You start to really trust that success is a worthy endeavor. Before you know it being "successful" as others define it influences our thinking. We begin to evaluate our life and priorities based on what the world gives value to. BAM! Robbed again.

Think about how much of the world's philosophy has penetrated our thinking. The world says that success should be measured by what you achieve for yourself. It is reached by gaining some degree of personal benefit. When you "get" you are successful. These are some of the concepts that are included in this thinking:

You should have MORE
BIGGER is better
Flash and sparkle are GOOD
You will be someone when others ADMIRE you
When you get what others WANT, you made it

You see, as disciples of the Lord, many of us live our lives trying to get others to notice us, have more and bigger, and enjoy the restful fruits of self seeking labor. The problem is that none of those things fit with what our Master wants. In fact, those are just the opposite of what Jesus would say is "successful". We should be thinking in terms of giving away, noticing others, and laboring in love and service. Did He not say, "It is more blessed to give than to receive"?

The Lord also told us to "Love one another as I have loved you". So, to succeed at being a disciple we must be loving one another...AS HE LOVED US. It was successful for the Lord to deny Himself and give His life for us. He gave His time, His reputation, His comfort, and even His own blood. To be successful we must do the very same thing. To do it right is to give away our lives for others. That's the way we should think when we make plans. That's the way we should think when we decide what will make us happy. That's the way we should think when we determine what to invest our time and efforts doing.

There is no longer a safe place to talk about being successful as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus. Even the church is being built to accommodate more and bigger. A successful church is one that can attract masses of people and display flash and sparkle. Church leaders feel successful when other churches admire them and want to be like them. Programs have become easily reproducible ways of manufacturing short term results regardless of whether people are really loving one another. The Church often promotes what it can get people to do by making it easier in order to gain popularity.

It is not that a church shouldn't grow...it should! In Acts 2:42 it says that 3,000 people were added in one day. That is success! If we are sharing the Gospel and demonstrating reconciliation there will be growth. And, there is nothing wrong with a church that may grow very large. The problem I see is that there are more and more churches that compromise for growth. Worldly ways have become the means to achieve success for the wrong reasons. I have not given up on any church. Each one of us bears the responsibility to define success according to the Words of Jesus. Then, we each have a choice. Start living it. We are the church.

Be Successful! Why can't we measure success by how much of our time we give away loving others - when no one is looking? How about if we achieve success by caring for the poor, sacrificing our own agenda to be consistently involved in others' lives, and living out our faith from day to day? Let's succeed at giving ourselves away and serving people...even when it becomes difficult or uncomfortable. Don't be robbed of this glorious truth. God determines what we should do and be successful at. His ways must be achieved by His ways. It should change the way we live.

We are being robbed

2010-09-30T08:50:00.000-07:00

There are so many incredible things that we have been given and called to as disciples of Jesus. Man! We are supposed to be living this really cool adventurous abundant life full of fruit and glory. We should be bold platforms for the gospel to be readily displayed. Even in trial and difficulty we have been granted lasting joy and peace. Our relationships can be strong healthy reflections of a crazy amazing love that truly changes and heals. The list goes on and on. We have been given sooooo much.

I have to be real here...I don't see it. Come on, be honest...do you? It seems like we have settled into a shallow lukewarm outlook that basically says, "That is the ideal, but it will never really be reached by most people". And, for the most part, that has become a self fulfilling prophecy. Disciples are not experiencing the great benefits of living as disciples. Our lives, relationships, and actions don't look any differently from the world around us. Why?

We have been robbed! Most have allowed something to come in and steal away the huge potential of God's glory. I want to blog for the next several weeks on how we have allowed ourselves to be robbed. Each posting I will show a different angle and discuss a distinct "thief" that we have allowed to cheat us of something great. Basically these are ways we have allowed the world to dictate thought and procedure to the point that our way of life is no longer conducive to those glorious things God intends. Don't get me wrong, I believe most people are still trying to create those wonderful results...but, the fruit is missing because it isn't genuine. It can't be because it doesn't come the right way and, therefore, from the right source.

To begin with, I go to the Scriptures. There are many times in the early history of the church where Paul warns disciples to be very careful. There seems to be a constant reminder to maintain the purity of what they have and who they are. In fact, he instructs them to be very diligent so they won't be "robbed". We should pay particular attention to the specific word he uses when issuing this warning. Then, we should look very carefully at what he is warning against. Two references come to mind:

Colossians 2:8 "Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men
according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ."

The word "cheat" is egkopto' which means to steal or carry off in robbery.

Galatians 5:7 "You ran well. Who hindered you from the truth? This persuasion does not come from Him who calls you
A little leaven leavens the whole lump.

The word "hindered" is sylago'geo' which means to cut into or impede one's course by cutting off

In both instances Paul is warning disciples not to be robbed of what God intends for them. The idea here is that they can miss very significant things by giving something up...truth. It is helpful to remember that truth is God's way and cannot be mixed with any form of error. It must remain purely God's way (no leaven) to be truth. Now we observe that, in both cases, the very thing that robs them is worldly thinking. It is the traditions of men as they are attempting to comply to the principles of the world that cut us off from God's intended fruit. In Colossians they are prone to give in to a way of thinking or philosophy that is not from God. Then, like the Galatians, they are further warned not to let this worldly way of thinking determine their lifestyle and actions. He is saying that those ways will not produce Godly treasures. This is exactly what we are doing today. We are embracing the worlds ways and expecting God's powerful results. But, to no avail...we are allowing ourselves to be robbed. I will make a bold statement here. I think it has gotten to the point where the true ways of God are hardly recognizable any more. We very much live in a counterfeit Christianity.

So, the real question is how? In what ways do we allow ourselves to be cheated by worldly philosophy and the traditions of men? Well, it is no secret that I think we are in the Laodicean church age. We live in the days of the lukewarm church for sure. Think about it. What typifies the lukewarm church? It is not that the church has abandoned God completely and gone cold. It is that we maintain some church activity and success...but, it is robbed of the real power of God. Worldly thinking has penetrated God's community of disciples. People are robbed of the real power of God. It is because we live in a church age where we are trying to manufacture God's results by man's ways. Don't be deceived!

Each of my next several blogs will discuss specific ways that we allow ourselves to be robbed.

The Missional Church... simple

2010-09-15T17:29:00.000-07:00

I like simplicity! Although, my ridiculous brain always works very hard to over complicate things (just ask my wife and kids), I really do like simple. There is nothing easy about being Disciples...the Lord's Church. But, it is simple. Selling church, pressure for success, and competition have made church buildings and programs very complicated. Living as His people on His mission is not.

Check out this "simple" video. It is not my creation...but, I LIKE IT!

Can't be a disciple without being a disciple

2010-09-09T11:05:00.000-07:00

Many of the difficulties in Christian living today stem from missing the call of Jesus. We often think, “Man, this just doesn’t really work!” Have you ever tried Jesus’ ways, but missed Jesus’ promises? Jesus didn’t call us to be church attenders. The call wasn’t simply to agree with Him, believe in Him, and speak about Him. The call was to be a DISCIPLE. If you and I are going to follow Jesus, we must do so in the manner in which He prescribed. So many times, we are practicing correct follower duties and principles, but in the wrong lifestyle. We do it as part time followers, half hearted students, or fair weathered fans. All of the ways of Jesus are intended to be implemented into our lives living as disciples. This implies a certain kind of relationship that is specifically defined and precisely prescribed. You can't be a disciple without being a disciple!

The disciple or “student” of the Rabbi is expected to give up his own aspirations. The disciple leaves his own life behind to join anothers’. He is to dedicate his whole life to learning from, becoming exactly like, and always following the Rabbi or “teacher”. It is with this kind of wholehearted devotion and commitment that the disciple can begin practicing the new principles that will bring so much power and success. That is when it really starts to work.

A disciple must learn to do everything as the master does in order for anything to work. In other words, he must learn to tie his sandals like his master, eat like his master, and walk like his master. Then he can expect to learn the more exciting and advanced skills. There is a spiritual principle at work here. It is essential to know Jesus in the ordinary areas of our lives. You and I must learn who Jesus is by being with Him before we can expect to be like Him. This can only be done with a total abandonment level of commitment. In order to do that we must realize this...It always requires giving up other pursuits of life...always! “If any man desires to follow me, let Him deny Himself, take up His cross...”

As I try to walk in the dust of the Rabbi, Jesus, there are seven things that I have learned to focus on. These are things that help me to highlight what it means to enter into that Rabbi/Disciple relationship with Him. I will share them with you:

1.) Know God’s Word...and Jesus’ interpretation of it.

2.) Be passionate in devotion to Jesus and the things He talked about.

3.) Follow Jesus completely even if I am not sure of the final destination.

4.) Live by His teaching, which means we must talk of His teaching often.

5.) Be obsessed with being just like Him in every way possible.

6.) Arrange my life every week in order to follow Him into life.

7.) Don’t just tell Him I love Him more than anything else...show Him.

Now in San Diego!

2010-09-02T09:42:00.000-07:00

Well, contrary to popular opinion, I did not fall of the coast into the ocean...nor was I abducted and taken into Mexico to be put in jail (although, I have been there once before)...and, I certainly didn't get left behind! You know the motto I adhere to, "lead, follow, or get out of the way". So, here we are. It has been one of the most incredible seasons of my life. I have really enjoyed leading in this new church endeavor. There is a sense of freedom in church planting as we feel liberated to embrace the unexpected and expect the impossible.

First, the updates. All four families made it safely. We arrived late July 2nd...or was it actually early July 3rd? Anyway, Sometime during an hour that I had forgotten even existed, we drove into San Marcos with our caravan of 26' Uhauls singing praises to God. Since then, we have settled in, explored the land, prayer walked (drove), talked to people, mingled with neighbors, and started meeting for weekly celebration gatherings. Most of the team has found work, and a couple are still searching. However, God has faithfully provided for all of us in every conceivable way...in fact, immeasurably beyond our wildest expectations. A local church partner has graciously agreed to allow us to use their office/multi-use building to meet in for our Worship gatherings. We are hooking up with the other half of our church in Wenatchee with live video conferencing for our sharing/preaching time. This connection with our family in Washington has been a tremendous blessing and has worked almost seamlessly.

I maintain fairly regular contact with the Missional Community Group in Washington. Video conferencing with their leadership team, a constant flow of emails, and one actual trip to visit have allowed me to effectively lead this group. They are wonderful people who are also deeply committed to being true sold out disciples of the Lord Jesus. My recent trip to visit with them was a sweet time of fellowship and ministry. I noticed a marked change in the people of that group. They are truly growing in community. We video linked with the team here in San Diego on that Sunday morning and I preached from Washington. It was a blast!

We continue to study, pray, and write as we develop the structure of Metochos Communities Church. It has been a valuable learning time. In addition, I have been so blessed to see that this study process has also allowed the entire team to really bond. They are gaining such a sense of ownership of the mission. In some regard, I feel they are even more committed or convicted about what we are doing than I am...that is awesome! It also keeps me sharp.

Yesterday afternoon I found out that I have been accepted as an affiliate staff member with Campus Crusade for Christ's Military Ministry. This will allow me to have a network of relationships with others who are on the cutting edge of ministering to military members and their families. It will also provide us with a wealth of resources to help facilitate and train our team to be effective in this ministry. We continue to ache for the wounded warriors who suffer from all kinds of combat trauma both physical and emotional. We are eager to begin tending to their wounds with the only true healing solution. Coming on staff with this ministry will probably give us some new energy in that direction. I suspect we will be "kickin it up a notch". For more information our new affiliate partner ministry, see Huckabee's interview with the Executive Director, MajGen Bob Dees.

http://www.militaryministry.org/2010/08/11/huckabee-show-2/

As we develop Missional Community Group practices such as SOUL talk, sermon application exercises, life and truth talks, and idol confrontation we are putting in to practice everything we write. I cannot explain the transformation that is beginning to happen in my life. In the midst of facing some of my deepest strongholds, I have sensed a real change. The authentic community environment is beginning to loosen and soften some very damaged and calloused areas of my heart. Now, make no mistake...it is hard! There is conflict and friction that is inevitable when living life together so closely with other people. However, it is the conflict resolution and grace that has made all the difference. I have found out how shallow and dysfunctional I really am. But, for the first time in my adult life I feel the safety to reveal who I really am and allow God's mighty strength and mercy to touch those areas.

California is great! I love the weather, the ocean is awesome, and there is every kind of Taco imaginable at your finger tips. It can be easy to get sidetracked. The distractions are everywhere. But, we are here for a reason. There are also masses of people who are lost. I have been reminding our team that we must see them as Jesus sees them in order to really be moved to make a difference (moved with compassion). The people in Southern California may have nice cars and big houses...they may be laid back and seem very comfortable...but, Jesus sees them as they really are. They are weary, scattered, like sheep having no shepherd. We have the message of hope, and we fully intend to bring it to everyone we possibly can. The harvest is truly great so pray for the Lord of the Harvest to send out laborers.

P.S. Ok, I have received a lot of flack for not updating in a while. I admit it...I was a slacker! But...you haven't been commenting either. Nothing motivates me to blog more than lots of good comments, reader involvement, and feedback. Please let's use this blog site to dialogue about stuff. If the comment tool isn't working, please email me. You can find my contact information on this page. Thanks, I look forward to reading your thoughts and experiences too!

Crossing the Jordan

2010-06-19T12:33:00.000-07:00

Here we stand poised on this side of the "Jordan River" of our lives right now. God has been so faithful in the past. I feel like my wife and I have experienced so much of God's provision and protection over the past 20 years. But, now we are at one of those crossroads once again. I truly believe that in order for us to continue on with God we must take this step of faith. We must cross over the Jordan into the new land that He has prepared for us.

On July 1st my family, along with three others, will head out in a caravan of 26 foot Uhaul trucks carrying everything we own. We have all left behind jobs, houses, and friends to follow God. If you have been following my blog, you know that God has called us to something new. We will start a new church based on small missional community group ministry.

The real question that so many ask (including myself) is, "Why is it necessary to make such huge and drastic change to do this thing?" I think the answer to this question lies at the very center of learning to know and experience God. While it doesn't always mean giving up your home and moving to another state, it does always mean giving up and moving from where you are spiritually. Here are a few things to remember about knowing God...

God always leads us to greater places of intimacy and influence. No matter where you are in your walk with Him, you can be sure that there is more. God has a future and a plan for your life, and it will always involve moving forward. I am reminded of the words of Isaiah, "the Lord makes a way in the sea and a path through the mighty waters, Who brings forth the chariot and horse, the army and the power...Behold I will do a new thing. Now it shall spring forth (says God)". Man! Are you ever plagued by the thought that there might be so much more with God...and you are going to miss it? You may learn to be more content and peaceful with His ways, you may be used to touch more people with His love, and you may leave a longer lasting legacy for those who know you. God has more for all of us. The real key is to keep following Him. For those who endure the difficulties and drudgeries, God has treasures of blessings in store. There is a reward for those who are desperate to see more of Him.

God always leads us to change. In order for our lives to be transformed from the way they are now to experiencing more of God something must change. It is the change that God uses to reset the stage of your life in many cases. But, also it is the change that God uses to bring your faith to life. Just like crossing the Jordan River, God calls us to do things that are not prudent or usual. God calls us to drastic and radical steps of change (that often look foolish to those who don't want to hear). This places our lives in His hands in fresh new ways. Then, He shows Himself in fresh new power! The step of faith is an absolute essential part of knowing God. Let me say that again...THE STEP OF FAITH IS AN ABSOLUTE ESSENTIAL PART OF KNOWING GOD! So, don't try to engineer your life to avoid any choices or circumstances that will require you to rely on what you don't have. Look for the impossible...embrace the unknown...chase after that which only God can do. That is how God becomes so real in our lives.

Don't discount the radical. There are drastic things involved in being a true disciple of the Lord. He is a radical Lord, and He will call His followers to do radical things. He may be leading you to make some physical changes in your life in order to experience the extraordinary nature of being intimately related to Him. Don't miss it! I can tell you from my experience, nothing is richer and more fulfilling in life....nothing!

Another guest blog entry from my wife

2010-06-04T12:41:00.000-07:00

When Bud asked me to be his guest blogger I immediately said, “YES”! I felt honored that he would even ask me. He assured me I could write about whatever I wanted, yet I felt that sudden pressure to churn out something interesting. Something profound. Something that didn’t make me look like an idiot. This was going to be more difficult than I thought. I was beginning to surmise that I’m a “one hit wonder”. You know...like the lady who sang the still popular, “Oh Mickey you’re so fine, you’re so fine you blow my mind – HEY MICKEY!” Only we never heard her sing anything after that – ever again. Ya, I was thinking that was me.
I sat down to begin writing but I got nothing. Zip. Zilch. More pressure set in as I knew I was supposed to be helping him out by writing this blasted blog. I didn’t find it appropriate to consume an entire blog entry with writer’s block. So I finally asked the Lord, “Do I have anything bothering me right now God?” “What can I vent about on the internet for the entire universe to read about?”
Late yesterday afternoon, I heard that still small voice whisper in my ear, “You are afraid of Katey leaving home, aren’t you?” I proceeded to argue that maybe I was slightly anxious about this…but the entire internet world had no business knowing about it – nor did they even care. Evidently God seemed to think that although the entire internet world truly may not care, HE DID, and I WAS going to write about it – or else.
I am entering into a new season of my life often referred to by others as “the empty nest years”. I’m not sure when the term “empty nest” came to be…or who penned it first – but evidently I’m beginning it. And I don’t like it. Oh I know…I’ve said for years that when the girls left home I would still be younger than when my parents had me, and I would enjoy having my husband all to myself. But the time has passed much faster than I had anticipated, and the moment is now here, and I cannot shake this “empty nest” visual from my head.
If you think about it, the image is so graphic. A sweet, tiny baby bird being violently thrust out of the nest; falling down, down, down, down towards the ground. The baby bird either figures out that they have wings attached to the sides of their bodies…or SPLAT, they fall to their deaths – hitting the pavement. I wonder if they have “Bird Child Protective Services” for instances such as this….This mama bird surely won’t win any parenting awards with her technique. Who gave her a license to procreate anyway? This mama bird is a nut ball! Doesn’t she know the risk she is taking by tossing out her babies one-by-one to a possibly horrific fate? We’re talkin’ about 50/50 odds here! I am not a gambling woman, but if I were – a person has got to be wacko to place a bet like that. The stakes are too high – the phrase “long shot” is a MAJOR understatement here! If I am going to bet the farm, I want the odds to stack up better than – FLY OR DIE! What the heck???!!!
This season of letting go of my oldest baby has revealed much fear and anxiety in my heart. Katey has always been with us…or so it would seem. I cannot imagine our home without her. There is a dynamic that Katey brings to the dinner table that is undeniable. I know my odds with her future are better than that of the mama and baby bird. College and law school are not exactly “Fly or die” scenarios, but the world is evil and I am a “helicopter” mom by nature. Hover. Hover. Hover, over my babies…that makes safe babies, right? Tossing purposefully from the nest does NOT make safe babies. I mean, that IS the goal…protecting your young? Isn’t it a basic human instinct for a mama to protect her baby?
I had all sorts of scenarios in my mind about how Katey doesn’t really NEED to leave home. I mean, isn’t than an American thing? All of that, “young women need to learn to spread their wings so that they can fly crap”, is in my opinion, highly overrated. And why is it that people who assume to give me this advice only have SMALL CHILDREN themselves. What is up with that? But, in the bible girls lived at home until they married, didn’t they? So maybe she could go to school nearby and live with us till she is finished with college and has found a good job, which would be, of course, all close to home. Right?
This is when the wheels fell off the wagon, and God reminded me about Hannah and Samuel. In the middle of my plotting and anxiety driven manipulations I immediately thought about how Hannah asked the Lord for Samuel. How she knew Samuel’s life would be special, different from lives of the other children his age. He had a calling placed on his life from the moment she knew she was carrying him in her womb. Hannah would give her son back to the Lord for His use, for His special purpose. In reading the story of Hannah and Samuel, you do not find worry, fear, or dread about what would become of the boy once she took him to live at the Temple at such a young age. You see her love and devotion for God, her pleasure to do His will, and her sacrifice of what was most precious to her. What an unselfish mother she really was.
Now, I am well aware that Katey is not a little boy I’m taking to the Temple for a life in complete service and devotion as a prophet. But she is our child of promise, and given to us by God. We know God gave her to us only for a little while, so that He could then use her for His special purpose. I had a sense of the uniqueness of Katey, even as a tiny baby. She would be special, distinct, and purposed to be used by God in a mighty way. What that all looks like…and how God brings that about is His business. But the more tightly I hang on to her, the less God will be able to use her. I have to let her go with God, just like Hannah had to let Samuel go with God. I do not want to stand in His way of using Katey’s life for His glory.
So baby girl…as you graduate next week….know that daddy and I love you so very much. Words cannot express how infinitely proud we are of you. You have accomplished so much. No mother could ever be more proud than I am of you. I have parented you to the very best of my ability, and prayed for that huge gap in between. I love you with all that I have, and am acutely aware that probably was not enough. I have failed you many times over, and have made many mistakes. God’s grace has manifested Himself over and over again in my life, as I have tried to be a godly parent and example. So, as you venture out into this new chapter of your life, you can be reassured that daddy and I pray for you daily. This IS our best defense. Therefore, no more helicopter mom, no more hovering over the nest to make sure you don’t fall out. You really are ready to fly. I love you BabyKatey.

More, Bigger, and Better

2010-05-21T08:45:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have to be real here. I must confess that something happens to me. I am not proud of it. It is not pretty. But, here it is. I will be driving down the road...minding my own business, when suddenly, a Corvette drives by. Oh man! I don't know why, but my heart literally skips a beat. Whatever else I am thinking about disappears. I just feel as if I suddenly cannot live any longer until I have one. Yes, I am quite certain...I need one!

Here in American we have such an insatiable appetite for stuff. It seems like no matter what we may have, we want more. Most of us really believe that we will be happier if we get bigger and better stuff. We can hardly separate out these thoughts. They have become part of our basic thinking. Our World view is actually formulated based on this principle...things bring satisfaction. I am so excited to be learning to reformulate my world view in this season of life. I know...its kinda late. But, it is never too late!

There are a couple of things that I found in God's Word that have been helping me to change my thinking. Here they are.

1.) Life does not consist in the abundance of the things I possess. Think about it. What is "life". Our life is what we think, do, use our energy to accomplish, or what we give and take to the world around us. It is helpful to remember that life is God's gift. It is not something that we have the right to take for ourselves. My life is not for me to determine how to spend. It does not consist of finding happiness, peace, or contentment in the things of the world...even the basic things. Jesus said, "Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?" It is more! Ironically life consists of what we can give (not what we can get). True contentment is found in being most like Christ (sacrificially giving for others). Peace is accomplished by setting our affections on the things that cannot be seen. Or, lack of peace comes from a divided affection. Life is sooooo much more than that feeling you get when you have a corvette, a bigger home, better furniture, more gadgets, or fancier clothes. Life is spending yourself for eternal purposes.

2.) Idols suck. They always seem to creep in and dominate our lives. Listen, when I begin to think that something (a thing, lifestyle, image, or person) will finally satisfy me, it has become an idol. "You cannot serve two masters, you will hate the one and love the other." My idols have a way of deceiving me. When we give them our attention they are empowered to mislead. Our thoughts begin to be filled with things that are not true. Our perspective alters little by little until people in our lives become obstacles rather than those to serve. Thinking of others before ourselves becomes distasteful. Our investment in life becomes shallow in real meaning, but deep in complex entanglement. Before we know it, we are discontent, anxious, or depressed. Why? Because you cannot serve two masters! And, the Lord is the only master that gives true peace.

3.) My heart follows whatever I treasure. I have prayed to God so many times to make me like David. I want to be a man after God's own heart. I want my world view to be formed by valuing what God values. Yet, my treasures always seem to be things that are not very important to God. Do you know what is most important to God? Two things come to mind. His Glory and His people. God's glory is found when His ways are on clear display in our life. Interestingly enough, His ways can often be blurred when they aren't uncontested as our treasure. And what about His people? Isn't it always true that when I am consumed with material things of the world, I am neglecting people? The more I want, the more selfish I become. Let's make our most valuable treasure in life...people! You see, what I can GIVE replaces what I can GET. My satisfaction comes from God's love expressed to others. Sharing draws us into authentic influence with people.

Ok, what will you and I do to really make some changes. Will we finally decide that our "life" is not to be spent entangled in the things of this world. I truly believe this: That corvette will not really satisfy me. Placing that much value on getting it will only deceive me and leave me empty of real life. Try this with me: make some world view changes one week at a time. As you begin each day, choose to live life according to these three truths. We have to be purposed in denying the accumulation of stuff, neglecting the desire for wealth, and crucifying your investment in self. Hear this...life is so much more!

2010-05-06T12:37:00.000-07:00

Our latest recon trip to San Diego was all business...prayer, meditation, and spiritual discipline all the way!

Happy Anniversary to Julie!

2010-04-28T08:54:00.000-07:00

Today, my wife and I celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. Every anniversary is special, but this one seems to be a real landmark in our lives. God has done such an amazing work in our marriage journey together. It gives us time to reflect on His powerful grace and loving direction. I can honestly say that our hearts are closer to each other today than they ever have been. And, we are both closer to the Lord Jesus than ever before. Julie and I are that much closer to a fully devoted life. We are determined to never turn our back on the Lord Jesus, and we are the best source of encouragement in one another's lives to remain true to Him.

Julie, you are the love that God has given me. Let me say to the entire world what I will say to you tonight over a romantic candlelit dinner. I love you from top to bottom and everywhere in between. From your incredible knowledge of Scripture (no one knows the Bible like my wife) to your quirky love for baseball statistics...from your authentic real outward personality to your love for all things pink! I love the way you laugh, and I love that you laugh at me (often). I see Christ in you more and more, and I recommit myself wholeheartedly to you and your growing relationship with our Lord. You are as lovely as Jerusalem to me (Song of Sol 6:4).

Ok, now the mushy stuff is out there on the world wide web. I feel uncomfortably bare. That is who we really are. One of the most exciting new things in our life is learning to be transparent and authentic in our relationships. Our community group (the beginning core of Metochos Communities Church) is all about entering into genuine disciple relationships. My wife and I are learning so much as we grow together in life with other families. Our belief is that open disclosure and honesty in grace is the missing link to sustained spiritual growth. We all have sin...weaknesses...strongholds that constantly interrupt our growth in Christ-likeness. We all fail in some areas that keep us falling backwards. Our great need is for a context of grace to discuss those areas in the light of accountability and truth. I mean, come on, don't you long to quit pretending that you are not really the way you are? Wouldn't every disciple love to be able to show the real person that they are? Wouldn't you like to have someone who loves you unconditionally speak truth and blessing into your life...right in the middle of your mess? Anything short of complete transparency is hypocritical and deceitful. And this much I know about God....He won't work in that!

In our community church setting we intend to be real with each other. Every struggle and failure will be met with compassion, understanding, and grace. You see, it is easier to show grace when your own failures are just as transparent. But, there is something else that is also critical. The purpose of this transparency is to change! Our sins are being discussed in the light of mutual encouragement and accountability. Compassion does not mean compromise. Understanding does not mean justification. Our idols will be continually confronted by the reading of Scripture and confrontation of love. Our selfishness will be automatically disrupted by the lives of others being so intimately connected to our own. I long for understanding and compassion, but I am also desperate to not be able to get away with my sin. Grace comes to life!

Shouldn't the church be a place of close and intimate relationships where this kind of growth can really take place? We believe church should be a network of families that are totally and completely committed to one another. Our very lives should be organized around this network. We don't have the right or freedom to engineer these disciple relationships to be convenient or comfortably distant. All that does is facilitate more hypocrisy and deceit. We were born into a spiritual family...a people...His Church. I need those people in my life to be closer than I would ever be naturally comfortable with. I need it to grow in my victory over sin!

Well, one final thought. I know some of my readers are saying, "That is all fine, well, and good...but what about the lost people?" Here is my answer. This is one of my deepest convictions, and I am hanging it all on the line here. I believe lost people (without Christ and God's grace) long for this type of relationship. We are counting on the fact that this kind of community will attract people who have never seen such love. Jesus's words, not mine: "They will know you by your love for one another". What kind of love was He talking about? The same love that He gives. A love that is real, sacrificial, and giving. This is a major component of our Evangelism strategy. Let God's love and grace draw all men to Himself as we intentionally reach out to them in genuine relationship. It is going to be either all God, or not at all!

Metochos Communities Update

2010-04-20T09:18:00.000-07:00

Wow! God Continues to move among us! We have been, once again, affirmed in our pursuit of genuine authentic missional community. Over the past few weeks I have been meeting with a another group that is seeking for a more effective church life. These are people who are disillusioned with the shallow, plastic, and programmed approach to being the church. They no longer want to "go to church", but they want to "be the church". God seems to be drawing pockets of seekers to repent of lukewarm living and to reform lukewarm church. We must respond with total and complete abandonment.

The result…we have some exciting news! As of last week, Metochos Communities Church will begin the formation of a Wenatchee branch. What is so amazing is this is happening before we even move to San Diego. This community will be part of our church, but will not be joining us when we move. Instead, they will continue right here in Wenatchee. I have never heard of a church that started out with two initial communities that were 1400 miles apart…or wait, maybe I have. Yes, I have! I read about it once in a book called Acts. Antioch was a very new church that sent Paul and Barnabas to start new communities of churches. Many of those new churches established in Paul's first church starting journey were made of multiple communities. There were connections between the communities of Salamis and Paphos (they were on the same island of Cyprus). They traveled back and forth between the communities in Lystra, Derbe, Iconium, and Antioch (Acts 14:20-23) sharing, teaching, and serving. Later in Acts we even read of many leaders and servants from these communities being transferred to be used wherever they were needed. And what is so cool here is that they were all brand new infant churches! It was the power of God working though their changed lives, not some gimmick or program, that allowed them so much success.

How will we be several communities of two different cities? How will we be able to accomplish such an unorthodox church building endeavor? It is really quite simple…we follow the Master. He said, "I will build My Church". Our success will be found in Jesus' model. When a community of disciples decides to give up all and follow Jesus like He commands them, unexplainable things begin to happen. When a community of disciples completely commits to one another in interdependent relationships based on the common gospel mission, lives begin to really change (for real). When a church becomes the church all week long, impact is intensified and magnified. When communities of disciples live life together with the love that is from Jesus, people will be uncontrollably drawn to God. That is how we plan to accomplish such an incredible mission.

People today are sick and tired of plastic church. They don't want to just continue to live the same old unchanged way of being independent and lonely. Radical change is in order! Push off into the deep and allow your life to be inseparably intertwined with God's work in the lives of others. Give up the shallow pursuits of this world together and make God's Gospel mission central to every day all week long.

Thank you Metochos Communities Wenatchee for joining us in becoming an unstoppable force for the cause of Jesus Christ. You are truly my heroes.

Dear Mr. President

2010-04-15T08:58:00.000-07:00

In my last blog entry I pointed out that most Americans incorrectly blame our government for the alarming state of our nation. It is, in fact, the greed and insatiable desire for self gratification of the people that is responsible for our current crisis. There is not a nation in the world that is as accurate in its' representation of its' people in the government as ours. For centuries we have elected governing officials at all levels that promise to give us the most wealth, comfort, and material security. All this to the detriment of that which is righteous and good. America has created a monster and it will be hard to kill.

I don't blame President Obama for the housing market crash, corporate corruption, economic recession, or even health care deterioration. I understand that there so many factors to consider when governing these issues. The ordinary American citizen is not thoroughly informed enough to truly understand the implications involved in most of these decisions . The intricacies are so immensely complex that we must pray for God's sovereignty and trust in His divine oversight. That really is our only hope!

I deeply respect the office of President of the United States. I also support the man who takes that office with my prayer, love, and devotion. All that being said, I am forced to confront our President on one single issue that I believe He must alone bear the burden for. I have emailed the White House my blog address, inviting him to read the following letter.

Dear Mr. President,

It is with sincere and complete humility that I write you this letter. You must know that my patriotism and support for you and the office you hold is unquestionable. I have served as a United States Marine in the Persian Gulf, and I would have willingly given my life to defend you, our country, and our Constitution. I have looked directly into the whites of the eyes of radical Islamic terrorists. I have had the opportunity to stand directly in their path as a clear and present deterring force protecting this country. I would gladly do it again.

I recognize that there are many things that I do not understand about the issues facing our nation today. I will humbly submit to your leadership as you work hard to bring about positive change for all of us.

There is one issue facing the future of America that I am compelled to boldly address. Mr. President, you must support the existence and safety of the nation of Israel. We must not muddy the waters of this topic with mis-placed notions of fairness and peace. The land from Dan through Beersheba all the way down to Elat belongs to Israel. It is the only piece of land to ever be deeded to a people by God Himself. Sir, do you believe in the God of the Bible? You made several references during your campaign to ethics of faith and Christian values. Well, there is only one true God. And, God has unequivocally pronounced Israel as His own special people. God Himself has called them the "apple of His eye". He has promised to give the Jewish people the land and all that is in it.

Please let me be clear. This is not an issue of anti-Arab sentiment. Arab nations and states have just as much a right to exist without oppressive attempts to reduce their land. I do not hate Arabs. Nor, do I wish to see them harmed in any way. However, it is clear to even the casual observer that those who are seeking to take land away from Israel have radical and violent motives. Israel must be allowed to expand settlement into Jerusalem, the West Bank, and the Gaza. We cannot allow people who would gladly exterminate the entire Jewish race dictate where they can safely walk in their own land.

The success of our efforts over the history of this great nation have been directly tied to our ongoing support for Israel to exist, prosper in the land, and enjoy our complete protection. If you do not lead our country to bless Israel as we have in the past, we will fail. Economic policy will be irrelevant, efforts of congress will be in vain, and war against terror will be futile. We desperately need the blessing and protection of God. God cannot be crossed. We do not have the right to decide on such matters as Israel's peaceful settlement in the land of Palestine with our own thoughts and motives in mind.

Mr. President, I strongly urge you to change your position concerning the expansion of settlement for Jews in Israel, protection of existing Jewish settlements against extreme threats, and public support and solidarity toward the Jewish people. In this matter you do not have the freedom to choose. You are eternally obligated by the character and laws of God almighty. I will pray for you as you consider the severity of your role in this matter. May the Lord grant you His favor and mercy.

Humbly submitted,

Bud Wenzel

It's not the government's fault

2010-04-06T08:44:00.000-07:00

Well, our house officially goes on the market next Tuesday. We have been working around the clock to get it ready to sell. This is one of those huge steps of faith for Julie, the girls, and I. As it turns out, there is a huge gap between what we owe on our house and what it is now worth. Ok, so it is true...there really are giants in the land. The housing market dropped on us and we will come out with a significant deficit. And, on top of that housing in San Diego is still much more expensive. However, make no mistake. We are eager to see God work. This is just the type of obstacle that God will show Himself strong in. I remember the children of Israel crossing over into the promise land. The spies said there were giants and fortified cities. But, God promised His might in the face of opposition. That means they had to choose to walk into opposition that would have been insurmountable without Him. To avoid it was to avoid God's power! This is exactly where we are at in our lives. We want God to be glorified no matter what. So, we know He is leading us to circumstances that set the stage for His great glory...not ours!

Our personal housing situation has served to instigate many discussions with people in our lives. It seems everyone is quick to attach much of the blame to the government. There is so much dissatisfaction with President Obama and his so called stimulus agenda. Well, it doesn't seem to have stimulated very much in the housing market here. But...I am not really blaming President Obama, the Congress, or Wall Street. We are a nation who has abandoned the pursuit of the things of God and replaced it with a pursuit for the material. It is the insatiable desire for more in the hearts of the people of America that has led us to consume and hoard up material wealth. It is our driving need for comfort that led us to demand a lifestyle that places self at the very center of American living. We have lost our sense of moderation, charity, and genuine care for others. It seems our world view is formed by our selfish and consuming need for immediate gratification. "It's my money, and I want it now!" Our insane craving for more has created this monstrous machine of immoral economics that can no longer be sustained.

It is time for repentance and change. And, all we can do is start with one family at a time. That is why we are returning to the Biblical standards of living at Metochos Communities Church. Our intention is to live simply. I don't mean we are going to give away everything and live hungry on the streets. Nor will we retreat monastic cave living up in the hills. But, if we take Jesus' Words seriously, we should not hoard up for greater and more while other people starve. Here is our question as we begin planning for a new church that models radical God-centered community: "What would it look like if a community of disciples of Christ shared with one another as they had need, and gave sacrificially of all their excess to those around them?" I mean to really live like Jesus did...literally simple and simply available. If that sentiment makes you uncomfortable, you just may have a problem with God. He says, you cannot serve mammon and God. You will either hate the one and love the other, or you will be loyal to the one and despise the other. We would like to create a community that is willing model kindness and love with more than just occasional food drives and random acts of kindness. We want to literally live our lives for others. Isn't that what Jesus calls for His disciples to do? In Luke chapter 14 there is a large crowd following Jesus. They were seeking to find whatever it was that He was offering. It is then, that the Scriptures record Jesus turning to face them saying, "If anyone does not hate His own life, he cannot be my disciple". He adds that in order to follow Him we must take up our cross, denying our right to our lives for ourselves, and give our LIFE for others. That is the defining element of the follower of Jesus Christ. To intentionally give away your life and the things that enter your life for the benefit of others.

Ok, that sounds extreme. I know many people who will say that to actually live in community where people give away their life for others as an ongoing consistent lifestyle would be too much. They will contend that that kind of simplicity and self denial will cause us all to be miserably unhappy. No! Just the opposite. The Lord promises that this kind of life will be the only real joy. Look around. People living for themselves (even church members) are always struggling with some crisis that causes anxiety, depression, and misery. Real peace and joy...God's peace and joy...comes from living as He lived and according to His Word. We are ready to take God at His word and try it out. We're all in!

By the way, I am fiercely patriotic. I deeply respect my president, and I have served my country with a willingness to die protecting the constitution and the freedom it provides. I would have given my life to protect President Obama if presented with the opportunity. He must have our respect and prayerful support no matter what his policies are. I cannot find it within myself to blame President Obama for very much of our current national crisis. There is one exception, however. My next blog entry will be a letter to our president outlining the one thing that must be corrected and he must be held accountable for.

Enjoying the freedom of an informal setting!

2010-04-06T08:32:00.000-07:00

I have found a new freedom in my preaching. As you can see there is much more intimacy...

The Ginormous missing part of commitment

2010-03-23T12:14:00.000-07:00

Ok, it is time to finish the sentence. My last blog entry was dedicated to redefining the concept of commitment. Let me pick up where I left off...

You just simply cannot be committed to being a disciple without BEING COMMITTED TO OTHER DISCIPLES. Total commitment to Jesus cannot be separated from total commitment to other disciples. That's what is missing. We are a new creation born into a body of believers to be a people unto God. In other words, we must be committed to a local community of disciples in order to properly follow Jesus and become like Him. That is how we display the glory of God in a dark and hurting world that desperately needs to see His love. It is also how we are able to properly grow in maturity and development as individual disciples.

One of the main causes of the lukewarm state of the church today is the poisonous cultural western influence of individualism. We think of ourselves as individuals. I am an individual disciple who is supposed to become like the master Rabbi by imitating him. Well, that is partially true. Except, if we truly live as Jesus lived, we would be inseparable and intimately connected in life to a community of other believers. Part of the reason for Jesus' earthly ministry was to set the "disciple making" process into motion. He modeled the purpose for our lives by calling aside a community of followers to live life with. That is why the disciples did everything with Jesus as opposed to just having a Bible study once a week. They walked from place to place together, prayed together, ate together, served together, related to people together, learned God's ways together. That required a interdependent (non-individualistic) view of relationships. They were completely committed to one another.

Today, we see our lives as opportunities for self fulfillment. The main goal of our lives is to make the most for ourselves as we possibly can. If that is truly our goal, then at some point people will get in our way. So, as a result, we have engineered our relationships to be convenient and unobtrusive. We keep even our closest relationships at an arms length so that we never have to be really dependent upon them for our well being. Even in churches we are just individual people growing lonely together. There is a powerfully huge and essential element missing to our commitment to the Lord...our commitment to each other! I mean real commitment (as redefined in my previous blog entry...read it).

Think about the basic tenants of being a true disciple of Jesus Christ. We are to consider others before ourselves. It is more blessed to give than to receive. And, the least shall be the greatest because we are to live a life of service to others. Here is my question: How do we do all that alone? We can't. It takes a radical commitment to our own community of believers (church) and to the hurting neighbors (unsaved) around us. Isn't that what the Lord told us when He said, "The greatest commandment is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and strength (commitment to God)...and the second is like it; to love your neighbor as yourself (commitment to people)?

In addition, it is impossible to really live like Jesus lived without being intimately connected in life with others. The grace that trains us and teaches us to live holy lives pleasing to Him must be played out in relationships with others where it is actually utilized and relied upon. The "one anothers" of Paul's epistles are to be practiced in life as we spend much of our time together. These things were never intended to be something that we do on Sundays or at officially scheduled meeting times. You and I must learn that the most crucial part of growing in Christlikeness is learning to give up our individual rights to keep people at a comfortable distance. We must be devoted to giving of ourselves to people.

Metochos Communities Church is my effort to provide a new paradigm for church involvement. It will be a humble but wholehearted effort to return to a church context that changes people's lives. God is leading us to reach out to people with a genuine and authentic offer to build life-long relationships that will effectively lead them to being disciples of the Lord Jesus. Our new church model will be centered around community. We are going to be calling people to live life together in small groups of missional communities. Each community group will have 6 - 10 families who are radically and totally committed to one another. We will ask people to change their entire identity to see themselves as part of a greater family...a body...God's people. We will challenge people to simplify and reorganize their life to be centered around what God is doing in the community of disciples that they belong to. They will in essence practice being the church together all week long instead of attending church one day a week. Don't get the wrong idea here. This is not some kind of a cultish commune. This will be a people who respond to the challenge of Jesus Himself to take up their cross and follow Him together. Each community will be a light unto the their neighborhood. They will strive to be the salt of the earth drawing lost people to the glorious gospel with the way they live and relate to one another. This is all about being exactly what the master Rabbi called for His disciples to be....radically committed to Him and interdependently committed to one another.

Our goal is for the four families starting this church to all relocate to San Diego this summer. One family has already sold their house. The other three (including mine) are very close to putting their houses on the market. None of us have jobs lined up, we don't have any substantial support, and it is extremely expensive to live where we are going. But, we are driven by a clear calling and deep conviction. We view this as the greatest commitment to our Lord, and we are walking in real faith. It is true...if the Lord does not come through and provide miraculously in many ways we will fail. That is exactly what makes this faith. Watch for how great God is!

This is where love leaves the stage and becomes "without hypocrisy" (Rom 12)

Taking back a critical word

2010-03-11T15:27:00.000-08:00

One of the things that makes successful Christian living so difficult these days is the subjugation of key words by the world. This is when the culture carelessly reforms the meaning of words by years of gradual shifting and reapplying. Before long, the meaning of a word is so changed that it can no longer have the impact that it once did. It looses important characteristics…essential characteristics.

That is exactly what has happened with the word "commitment". We, as believers in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, are called to be committed to Him. A commitment to Jesus demands certain things…by definition! But, we struggle when we sift the concept of commitment through our modern day watered down understanding of the word. People today don't even know what commitment really is. We live in a culture where no one is truly committed to anything. Today it is acceptable to have debt that you cannot afford to pay (even the government does it). America has seen an increase in unmarried adults for the 10th straight year, and half of those that are marrying are ending in divorce. People swap memberships, affiliations, services, companies, jobs, homes, and even wives as a matter of shifting convenience. Americans believe it is our God-given inalienable right to realign our values to whatever seems to grant the most worldly comfort and success at the time. Commitment has come to mean that which I am kind of leaning towards for the time being.

Well guess what? That is not what Jesus calls for His disciples. He tells us that it is costly to follow Him. He also says that we will have to be so committed to following Him that it looks like we hate everything and everyone else in comparison ("hate his father, his mother, and even his own life"). Wow! That is intense! Let's get back to the original meaning of commitment. It is to completely devote oneself with intention of following through. Dictionaries use terms like pledge, contract, binding oneself to a course of action, and steadfastly fixed. Now, that is what God is talking about when He compares our relationship to Jesus to the most sacred form of commitment…marriage.

Christians today should ask themselves as they walk through each week, "Am I really committed to being a disciple of Jesus?" Being a disciple requires our entire being. We must throw all of our attention and resources into it. Commitment to being a disciple means being devoted entirely to Him or set aside exclusively for His work. Based on today's modified meaning of commitment we think it means to pick up our disciple "mantle" whenever we have enough time in the schedule of our life. When in fact, It actually means that the schedule of our lives should be arranged to fit around our being a disciple of Jesus Christ…living out His ways…doing His work. It is something we are literally bound to by oath and by action. Our everyday life should be altered, changed, and radically affected by being a disciple. That is commitment.

When we make this kind of commitment we will find that we are more successful in christian living. The joy and peace that God promises will be something we can actually feel. The old saying is true…"you become that to which you are truly devoted to". In other words you will become like Christ. Hey, isn't that the whole idea of being a disciple anyway? Yes! As it turns out, being committed to Him (the real commitment…full on) is the most critical step in becoming like Him.

Stay tuned. Next week I will focus on a ginormous missing part of commitment. And, you will see how this directly applies to starting our new church, Metochos Communities. I will complete this statement: You just simply cannot be committed to being a disciple without…..

Genuine blessings

2010-03-02T13:45:00.000-08:00

I must say that I feel like one of the most privileged and blessed people on the planet. Yes, its true…I have no job, our income in a mere fraction of what it used to be, our house is going on the market in today's depressed economy, and we are moving to California of all places (where the housing and job market is even worse). But, I am blessed! God has given me a vision for authentic church ministry. He has also provided several other families who are just as stoked about starting a new and different church. It is these people that are the greatest blessing in my life. They are ready to sell all (literally) to go as missionaries to give their lives for the cause of Christ. Not only that, but these wonderful people are also deeply convicted to enter into meaningful relationship based community. That is cool.

Our intention is to start a church that is different. Here is a partial list that describes how we will be unique:

* Built on a network of interdependent relationships living life together…not just at conveniently timed meetings

* "Being" the church all week long… not attending church or "doing" activity.

* Community discipleship along the way of life…not just formal classroom learning.

* Evangelism as the central purpose of life…not an event or program.

* Sharing life together so that Jesus' love and grace can be practiced in everyday life…not constantly struggling to really know one another.

* Giving sacrificial preference to each other…not selfishly putting my life and needs before everyone else.

* Gospeling one another by showing grace, confronting idols, and speaking truth…not keeping people at an emotionally safe distance.

This church will be a network of relationships centered around missional community groups. Each separate missional community group will "be the church" together. They will each have several families who are committed to each other. Each community will also have a specific target group to reach with the gospel. And then, all of the missional community groups will be connected to each other for corporate celebration, encouragement, and resource sharing.

If you have questions or would like to be part of a church like this, please comment or email me.

Making Change

2010-02-18T10:05:00.000-08:00

Preface: I know...it has been too long since I have updated my blog. Let me apologize to all of my friends who are seeking to follow the recent changes in my life. I have been very busy making those changes, and now I am eager to begin sharing again. In addition to the usual musings, Hear This will now be used to share updates, thoughts, and stories from our church starting journey. My intention is not to convince anyone that the way they are doing church is wrong. I only seek to share what God is saying and doing in our lives to encourage you to cling to what is good...let God's relevant truth determine your outlook and choices along the way of your life and church experiences.

Update: It has been several weeks since my resignation. I find myself in a whole new world that is just busting with opportunity. Our step of faith to trust God in leading us and providing for us has been radical. God has shown Himself to be just as radical in His faithfulness. Each week the bills are paid and we have food on the table. Our small group of families is working at "being the church" rather than "going to church". We meet together weekly to pray, share meals, talk, study, laugh, and live life. There is daily contact in one way or another. Although, there are struggles with breaking patterns of individuality, we have all agreed that it is beginning to positively affect our lives. The access into one another's lives coupled with the abandonment to the gospel mission has given us a truly authentic atmosphere. God's Word is being freshly infused into the lives of this small community. It is incredible to see how deeply it is touching our hearts so quickly.

This week we named our new little church start and filed Articles of Incorporation with the state of California. This will give us an emotional and physical foot in the land as well as a legal identity. Our next step is to file for nonprofit status with the federal government. In just a few short weeks we hope to be a legal church ministry able to receive corporate protection, benefits, and give receipts for tax deductible charitable donations. This is all very dry and legal-like stuff, but it is necessary. Also, it gives those who have been asking to participate a way to join God and help us financially.

The name of our church is Metochos Communities Church. I know it looks like a strange name that might be associated with a leader who is grammatically challenged (and that is true). However, It is a name that purposely requires explanation. Our name is not commercially designed. We are attempting to get away from the "consumer mentality" where churches try to attract people to come to their church by appearing to have the most to offer by being relevant, exciting, and entertaining. We feel that this consumer minded approach just fuels the nasty fire of lukewarm church growth. Our purpose is not to reach people by attracting them to the best show in town on Sunday mornings. We intend to reach them in the everyday rhythms of life as we sacrificially and lovingly interact with them. People should be drawn to the Lord by both seeing and being the recipients of a very different kind of love. We want to have to explain to them why we are different and who we are committed to.

"Metochos" is the Greek Bible word for a "sharer", "partaker", or "partner". It carries with it two really cool concepts that we want to be woven into the fabric of who we are. First, we are sharers together in the life of being disciples of the Rabbi Jesus. It was never intended for discipleship or church participation to be an individual exercise. We are designed and called to be "individually members of one another" (Rom 12:5). It is our mutual dependence upon one another as we walk in God's Word that gives us the atmosphere to change and grow. Secondly, we are to be sharers of Christ's coming glory in the Kingdom. Jesus offers a place of greater participation in the future for those who share with Him in steadfast faithfulness today (Heb 3:14). Our church will be built on the truth and hope of mutual accountability to faithfulness.

"Communities" describes our church context. We are not a "community" church open for any kind of conveniently programmed approach to ministry. We want to avoid the appearance of a sloppy church of individuals that come and go as it fits into their worldly lives. Instead, church involvement must happen in the context of a network of relationships. We will gather as disciples of Christ who live life together, depend upon one another, and serve together. We seek to be a church made up of various missional communities. These communities will be the primary expression of the church. That's why we left the word communities in the plural form even though it may look grammatically awkward.

"Church" was also intentionally left in our name. After all, the church of the Lord Jesus Christ is His CHURCH. It is not just a fellowship or a gathering. It is not something to build to gain prestige or fame. It is the called out people with a very specific mission and identity. Our view is that we do not have a right to make His church anything other than exactly what God created it and purposed it to be. It keeps us totally connected to Jesus as the head (Jesus said, "I will build My church").

I am so excited that I could just wet myself....oops I just did. I mean really, this is so awesome! I have never felt so humble...so alive...so real. I would challenge all my readers to flip a reality check. Is your faith real? Does being a disciple of Jesus Christ really change the way you walk? Does your church expression line up with what Jesus asked of His disciples?

That Great and Powerful Ally of Change

2010-01-19T09:29:00.000-08:00

My wife and I have recently decided to follow the Lord's direction to resign as the pastor of our church and embark on a new journey. This new journey will involve radical change in many areas of our life. It will change the way we live, how we serve in "church", our relationships, our source of income, and many other areas. In most cases it will be more difficult....but we are excited!

I know, I know we all hate change. And, most of us have heard that it is something that we will always have to deal with. Change has become something we dread at first and later only tolerate. Well, let me just say, that is not working out very well for most. Change is not something that we should resent. It is a powerful gift in our lives that should be embraced!

Change can do three things that we must see.

First, change can drive us off center. We are all creatures who settle into comfortable patterns and habits. These patterns are most often points of least resistance. They are short cuts, and they usually lead us into a dull and lifeless walk that ignores the moving power of God. You and I are not much different than the people of Israel in the Old Testament. After a season of peace and success we are most apt to wander into these patterns of forgetting the greatness of God. So....change comes as a jolt to get us out of the rut. We need it.

Secondly, change can drive us to dependence. The greatest thrill of our walk with Jesus in this life is when He is doing what only He can do. Remember, Peter was called out of the boat to walk on the water with Jesus. You have to think that this required some change. Peter fished on those waters for many years and never once walked on top of it. It required different thinking and different acting. But, look what happened. He was absolutely dependent upon the Lord's supernatural provision. I wonder how many people are missing the peace and assurance of the Lord's presence in their life because they are afraid to get out of the boat (change) and really NEED Him.

Finally, change is part of growth. Can you imagine if we never moved on from drinking Momma's milk. Some of you would look pretty funny following your Mommy around these days waiting to latch on for your next meal...or your next bottle. It would be humiliating and embarrassing. In fact, you would be gravely ill because that form of nutrition is no longer sufficient to sustain you. We laugh at that thought(or at least you should), but the same is true with other areas of our life. Change comes to facilitate growth. It drives us to a deeper spiritual level that requires more sustainable nutrition. The most miserable people on the planet are believers in Christ who refuse to grow because they hate change. Yet, God continues to send opportunity after opportunity. Take one.

I am excited about the next season of ministry in my life. It is full of unknowns and giant obstacles. We are being called to do something we have never done before. I have no idea how we will navigate some of the very stormy waters that we are entering into. But, I want to get out of the boat! I want to see Jesus...really see Him in my life. Don't you?

Embrace change...invite change...love change! You don't always have to understand it. In fact, sometimes it is better if you don't. It is ok. If it is a gift from God, it is something that you can and should cherish. More change? Bring it on!

Was up with the Modern Day Church?

2009-12-29T13:47:00.000-08:00

I am troubled with the condition of the Church today. There is definitely something fundamentally wrong. Is this modern day church really doing what Jesus and the early disciples intended? Does it line up with His priorities, commitments, and promised results? Or, has it gradually morphed into something man-made and institutional. Well, my friends, the proof is in the pudding. I thought I would take this blog entry to share some of what I see in the evangelical church today. This list describes characteristics of what I believe Jesus would refer to as a "lukewarm" church. It is a compilation of statements that I agree with made by Francis Chan and my own observations. Judge for yourselves...

The people in our lukewarm churches:

Church experience is all centered around Sunday morning attendance. Members attend fairly regularly because that is what is expected of them, and they believe “good Christians” should go. They also in many cases need to be “refilled” by the Bible preaching.

People give money to charity and to the church…as long as it does not impinge on their standard of living. If they have a little extra and it is easy and safe to give, they do so.

People tend to choose what is popular over what is right when they are in conflict. Mostly we care more about what people think of our actions than what God thinks of our heart and lives.

People don’t really want to be saved from their sin; they want to be saved from the penalty of sin. They don’t really live like they believe this new life Jesus offers is better than the old sinful one.

People are moved by stories about disciples who do radical things for Christ (like move to China), yet they do not act in any way that would drastically alter their own lifestyles. We call “radical” what Jesus expected of all His followers.

People rarely share their faith with their neighbors, coworkers, or friends. They do not want to be rejected. Most of the salvations are happening as a result of staff.

People say they love Jesus, and He is a part of their lives. But only a part. They give Him a section of their time, money, and thoughts. But, Jesus isn’t really ever allowed complete control in their lives.

People love others but do not seek to love others as much as they love themselves. Their love for others is typically focused on those who love them in return. Their love is highly conditional, very selective, and most often offered with strings attached.

People will serve others, but there are limits to how far they will go.

People think about life on earth much more often than in the Kingdom or in Heaven. Daily life is mostly focused on today’s to-do list, this week’s schedule, and next month’s vacation. Rarely, if ever, do they intently consider the life that is to come. C.S. Lewis wrote, “If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this.”

People are more interested in playing it safe. This focus on safe living keeps them from sacrificing and risking for God.

People do not live by faith; their lives are structured so they never have to. The truth is their lives wouldn’t look much differently Monday – Saturday if they suddenly stopped believing in God.

The Church Ministry and structure of the Lukewarm church

There is no venue for real relationships that allow for the “one anothers” of the New Testament to really be practiced. We can’t love one another, bear with one another, endure one another, serve one another, preferentially treat one another as we pass each other in the hallway for 5 minutes at a church service or event.

Bible teaching is reduced to lecture in large and small class format – it is increasing Bible knowledge… but not changing lives. It lacks the “laboratory setting” where Biblical truth can be exercised and practiced in life as situations arise.

People are deceived into thinking that the few events and “fellowships” are their opportunities to do real ministry and love one another. However, those add up to less that 1 % of our time in a given week.

The Sunday morning church focus allows people to come and sing, sit, serve in limited capacity, and give regardless of what kind of choices they have made or conduct they have lived the entire week prior. They feel as if they have done church – even if they haven’t been the church.

The pastor is the only one who really must be spirit filled on a Sunday or Wednesday night.

Events and programs are presented as options to choose from. This propagates the deception that ministry is something you can choose when it fits into the hectic schedule of secular life.

Sermons, classes, seminars, and retreats are full of instruction, but truthfully lives are not being changed. Marriages are in more trouble, more teens are leaving home to abandon church life, and children continue to be rebellious and undisciplined in the ways of the Lord.

Most of the pastor’s time is spent fielding complaints and dealing with conflicts that arise out of the expectation that the church exists to provide for members. When the church and all its programs fail to meet the demands of our consumer oriented membership, people create turmoil that consumes resources.

Many of the needs people have in growing spiritually are not being met because of the cold and calculated way in which we gather. The intimacy, accountability, and living love that is absolutely essential to spiritual growth is hijacked by the infrequent and impersonal form of “scheduled ministry”.

There is no context available for authentic Biblical confrontation and church discipline. Confrontation becomes most often misunderstandings and divisiveness instead of restorative because it lacks the personal and relational community environment.

A Christmas Prayer for our Troops

2009-12-14T16:50:00.000-08:00

There is no higher calling than to give your life for another. That is exactly what the military forces of the United States are doing right now. Most of us live our daily lives without any comprehension of what it is truly costing those who willingly fight today. I think we owe it to those in our Armed Services to at least pause to acknowledge what they do. In fact, as Christians we are obligated to pray for them.

I can remember being deployed to the Persian Gulf during my service in the Marine Corps. The most lonely time was during Christmas. It is then that Americans long to be with family and loved ones. It is Christmas time that we are reminded of peace, love, and joy. Believe me...it is very difficult to be facing such hate and violence during this time of year.

I would encourage you to take a moment with your children and watch the video clip below. It may provide a great opportunity for you to talk to them about sacrifice and service. Lead them in a special prayer of blessing for our men and women serving today. We should be constantly aware of those who are willing to give so that we can receive. That is a principle that we as believers should be modeling for everyone else.

As you remember and pray for our Soldiers, Airman, Sailors, and Marines, please consider the following...

Many children will lose their Daddy this year in Afghanistan.

The divorce rate within one year for those returning from active duty is increasing

PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and its devastating effects are leaving a wake of carnage among the families of those who are returning from war.

A Guest Blogger (my wife!) Does God Really Care?

2009-12-09T11:48:00.000-08:00

I thought you might enjoy hearing from my wife, Julie. Check this out...

Have you ever had a problem? I mean the kind of problem that you can't fix? You've placed band-aids on this thing before - and that seemed to stop the bleeding, but the wound is still there. Festering away...consuming much of your time. A festering problem of this magnitude take a lot of maintenance. One must continually keep it protected by wrapping it up; there is thought, care, and money poured into the attempts of preserving such "wounds". If you are at all like me, physical manifestations ensue when a problem of such caliber surfaces. There are many sleepless nights when I lie awake trying to solve my mystery. Even when I try not to think about it by rolling each and every scenario over in my mind; deducing what is best from what is just "good"...the thoughts and underlying panic are still with me, never far away. Often, persisting nausea and heartburn follow, and become like unwelcome guests, never going home, as I grow more weary of them. Is this what God has intended for me? It just doesn't seem right...or fair...or even look anything like the victorious living that the Bible often talks about.

My relationship with God has been a lot like this for me these past few weeks. You see, I had been unwilling accomplice in the losing of beloved stuffed elephant. I was the driver the day Peanut had unknowingly fell out of our car. When the door was opened and Peanut fell out, I had a big problem on my hands. Even though it wasn't intentional, I felt it was somewhat my fault. I could have just kick myself for not looking back in my rear view mirror, I would have seen him lying on the pavement. I should have asked Alli if anything was dropped when she opened the back passenger door. I remember thinking that I am usually more conscientious than that, I am usually more observant than that, I am usually more anal and controlling that than that! Where was my brain that day? But Peanut was gone, Claire was heartbroken, and I couldn't fix it!

But God could. He knew, He saw, He heard the prayers lifted up...prayers for a silly stuffed toy, and He answered. Now I know that in the grand scheme of what's going on in America; like the war in Afghanistan, the war in Iraq, and the war on drugs, Peanut does not rank very high on the list of importance. But God really does care, and is actively working in our lives - no matter how seemingly insignificant. He cared infinitely more than I did for Peanut. He had intended before the world began to show me that He literally will orchestrate events by causing the unbelievable to happen. He is able, and will move heaven and earth, all to show Himself strong on behalf of His child. I mean, who knew that God would arrange a high school play practice, the weather, black-ice, a Thanksgiving invitation, a mother's plea in a newspaper lost & found ad, the real wheel drive on a Toyota Celica, the timing of being near an embankment AND a pond, a car accident, a neighbor saving a copy of a newspaper, the kindness of not one - but TWO strangers, and a salvage yard employee. WOW.

God really will come through for you. If He will return a tattered blue elephant to a little girl, He will do so much more for you - if you ask Him. It may not come about in the way you want, it may be a painful, long process, you may not be able to play out in your mind how God intends to fix it, but if you leave the results with Him - He is waiting to work in your life. Will you let Him?

If you would like to read about Peanut's journey...here is the link to the Wenatchee World newspaper story that was written about Claire and Peanut's safe return! http://www.wenatcheeworld.com/news/2009/dec/08/beloved-stuffed-elephant-is-home-safe/

Changing Lenses

2009-11-30T16:53:00.000-08:00

I recently bought myself a new pair of glasses. While I would like to say it was to simply update my fashion, the truth is my prescription has changed (part of the getting older deal). This time, I decided to consult with friends before choosing the frame style. It seems like every time I get new glasses they look at me with head's turned and eyes squinted..."Bud, what do you think you are doing?" So, my more fashion minded friends told me these new ones would be "stylin". My more pragmatic friends tell me that the thickness of these new frames would allow for them to come off and on more times without bending or breaking (I think they are irritated with how many times I take them off while preaching).

I have decided to use this as an opportunity to practice something new in my life. Every time I put these new glasses on, I imagine that I am putting the lenses of God's eyes on. Let me explain. Have you ever had someone mistreat you? There are probably people in your life that have failed to measure up to your expectations, turned out to be unreliable when you needed them, or hurt you in the past. Once this happens we begin to "view" that person differently. We see them as a source of pain. We begin to grow bitter, and we often put some big time emotional distance between us and them. I have experienced that kind of bitterness toward someone in my heart. And let me tell you, it is paralyzing. It does nothing but take me further into darkness. It affects the way I see everything in my life.
Here is what I am learning to do...change lenses. I simply need to view those people as God does. There is no question that God loves each and every one of them unconditionally and passionately...look to the Cross! GOD LOVES THEM! All we have to do is put God's eyes on to see how precious they are. It may be that God has sent you into their lives so that you can share in His love for them. Remember, His love is the kind that gives value in spite of a person's worthiness. Ask yourself:

What does God see when He sees that person?
What does God want me to see when I look at this person?
How can I look at this person to see the very best in them?

Use your imagination this week. Do something physical each and every day (like putting on glasses) to remind yourself that you can view unlovely people through lovely eyes. You have to intentionally change lenses. I have found that to be so freeing in this crazy life. It's crazy!
(Post a comment to let everyone know if and how this works for you this week)

From Russia with Love

2009-11-18T07:26:00.000-08:00

"Previet" or greetings in Russian. Well, this was a whirlwind trip. It seems like most of the time I was either 0n the plane or in a train. A new experience for Bud...all night train ride in a sleeping car. "Sleeping car", I don't think they should call it that at all. It is more like a KGB "keep you awake" torture car. It was like trying to sleep on my Grandpa's old tractor (except at highly accelerated speed). All the while wondering how diligent the Russian government has been in maintaining Soviet era train tracks. Well, we live by faith.

Alexander and I laughed all the way home from Moscow because I got to see the Kremlin, have a meeting with Gorbachev, and be groped by the Pope. All in one day! Let me explain. The Kremlin is in the background of the picture above...that was the real deal. We went on to meet with the vice president of a seminary in Moscow whose name is actually Gorbachev (no relation that I could see). I had too much fun with that. Then, we went to the National Convention Meeting of the Russian Evangelical Baptist Union. Alexander had a meeting with the Secretary General of that organization who is held in very high political regard (maybe too high). I teased him relentlessly about having to kiss the ring of the "pope". As it turns out this "pope" enjoyed kissing me! Alexander had too much fun with that. Will I ever learn to keep my mouth shut?

Russia has gone through such incredible change. It reminds me that we can never really rely on the circumstances of our environment for stability. One day everything can fall apart...just ask the Russians. Freedom can be taken away, money can be dried up, good jobs can disappear, and neighbors can become unreliable. If we place our security in the comfort of our culture or the prosperity of our society we are sure to be insecure. Those things are destined to change. It is not a matter of if... but when the rug will be ripped right out from underneath us. Our hope is not in the stability of our physical environment. Our hope is to be in the Lord. That's what it means when the Bible says He is our Rock. What does that look like, and how do I do that practically this week? Here are some suggestions:

Putting Your Hope in the Lord

Live each day with the eternal things of God in your thinking (renewed mind). What really matters to God?
If you are worried or anxious about things, your hope is in them. Living with your hope in the Lord leaves no reason for worry.
Focus on people every day. Your hope is found in God's love for people...join Him.
Make priorities based on what you KNOW God has promised. Everything else will fade away.
Relax! Rest in the Lord because He is really in control. Seek to obey what He says, love what He loves, and do what He does...the rest is in God's hands.

What about the tough weeks?

2009-11-13T16:14:00.000-08:00

A Perfect world...your job is going great because everyone loves you and appreciates your hard work, the kids are in good moods and well behaved, the house is clean, people respect you and admire you, and the dog greets you cheerfully with the newspaper in his mouth each new day. What the heck? Does anybody really live like that? I suspect your life is more like mine. Sometimes (maybe even more often than not) life just knocks the fire out of you. Circumstances don't work out the way we hope. Sometimes it is relationships that go sour or hopes dreams that get snuffed out.
I recently had one of these weeks. I mean I was knocked to the mat. But, here is what I want you to hear...I made it. As bad as it was, I am back on my feet. I am looking up again, and I have even grown in my relationship with God. In fact, the depths of despair have allowed me to see the endless reach of God's grace.
Let me share some of what I just recently learned. When these tough weeks come, remember the following.
1. God's strength is made perfect in my weakness. Unless I am actually faced with real life challenge that allows me experience my own weakness, I will never get to receive God's strength. His strength will not compete with my measely little self sustaining efforts. Watch His strength come rushing in to move mountains when you surrender to His sovereignty and acknowledge your weakness. "Not by might, not by power, but by My Spirit says the Lord"
2. God is working for the benefit of others in your weakness. Don't be robbed of the joy of being a blessing to others because of your own self pity. It is during these times that God is raising up His character in you...think about it! Jesus was never more displaying His GODliness than when He was misunderstood and knocked down. It was then that others were watching, learning, and benefiting. Trust this even though you may not be able to see it...when you are suffering and depressed, God is seeking to use you right there in your weakness to touch someone else. You don't have to be "worthy" or "useful", you just have to surrender. Say, "God use this however you want to bless the socks off someone else".
3. God is about to do something big when you are made small. I have learned in my own life that these really tough days and weeks are prophetic signals for the future. I recently heard that C.H. Spurgeon experienced the same thing in his life with long bouts of depression. He said, "This depression comes over me whenever the Lord is preparing a larger blessing for my ministry; the cloud is black before it breaks, and overshadows before it yields its deluge of mercy. Depression has now become to me as a prophet in rough clothing, a John the Baptist, heralding the nearer coming of my Lord's richer benison".
Having a tough week? Look unto the author of your hope and salvation. He is working more than you could have ever imagined. And, hold on because He is about to show you just how big He really is! Don't miss it by looking down or feeling sorry for yourself. Don't try to steal God's thunder by doing it all yourself. Don't let fear strangle the future right out of you.
Check out Chan's hilarious illustration of a life that gets robbed by discouragement and fear...

Welcome to my blog!

2009-10-20T16:46:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog! I am going to make this blog as user friendly and helpful to those seeking to walk with God as I possibly can. The purpose of my blog is to take some of the really valuable truths that we teach so often in church or Bible study…and bring them to everyday life. It is so crazy difficult to get any clear perspective today. We are totally ambushed by media, cultural themes, co-worker’s nutty ideas, friend’s opinions, and even our own stinkin flesh! How do we know how to navigate our life throughout the week? What is right? What we seem to need is a clear and resounding voice in our everyday life. How do I handle the situations that arise each day? What about the crisis that I just walked into? What do I do in this relationship? We need a voice…we need to HEAR THIS!

“Hear this” comes from the Hebrew word Shema which is the Jewish prayer and renewal of life unto God. It was said over and over again by Jews who wished to firmly and continually acknowledge allegiance to God. Shema is the first word in Deuteronomy 6:4. It is the word that means “Hear”.

Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them to your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. (Deuteronomy 6:4-9)

It is a reminder that we are to take God’s laws into every part of our life, and that we commit to love Him with all that we are. It is also tied to the way in which God’s law was instructed and passed on to children. The children and youth were taught the ways of God as they lived life…as circumstances arose (not just in a classroom). They took God’s Words into their life and everywhere they went so they would continually live in accordance with His thoughts.

In essence this blog will be a compilation of articles, thoughts, and videos that will help us to take God’s thinking into our everyday lives. My goal here is to take it from the pulpit and bring it into our homes for contemplation, discussion, and enjoyment. It is going to be serious at times, lighthearted at times, and I promise you downright stupid silly at other times (because that is the way life is). After all if we can’t have fun with some of what is going on around us in this world…we are too entangled in it.

My goal is to post one new blog entry each week. Please feel free to check in and spend some time re-centering your thoughts and perspective. Comments are welcome. Have some fun. Listen to the loving God who desires His best for you….HEAR THIS!

2009-10-12T19:56:00.000-07:00

My introductory blog entry is coming soon. In the mean time, check this out: