Merry Christmas!

Have a Merry Christmas everyone! I will be taking a few days off and will start blogging again in early January.

A Christmas Classic To Be

So much music, so little time! Only 18 days until Christmas.

Here is another Christmas favorite of mine. Nice musically with a thought provoking message; it is a classic in the making.

So Much Music, So Little Time

I love the music this time of year. Some are light and fun, others are packed with deep meaning. Here is a favorite of mine. Good music, great message. I hope you will be encouraged by it.

Thanksgiving Road Trip Ramblings

The glow of Thanksgiving past is starting to wear off, including a couple of the extra pounds gained over the weekend. Here are a few thoughts from the weekend:

Enjoy and cherish time with family

The Jake & Izzy show is the funniest (a pug and puggle)

Even losing isn’t bad when you know you’ve been defeated by the dominoes dominator

Beef and ham are not bad at Thanksgiving

Why is pumpkin pie fattening? It is a fruit, right?

Who would get up at 3am to go shopping on Black Friday?

It is meaningful to worship while away from home

It seems like good-byes get harder every year

Why is Thanksgiving only one day a year?

As we rush headlong from Thanksgiving into the Christmas season, don’t go so fast that you miss the “God moments” in each day. Savor His presence and give thanks!

Never Out Of His Sight

As a young boy I walked to school. The path I followed sent me right past my grandparents’ house. Even though I was not aware of it, my grandparents would watch me all the way to the elementary school. They were looking out for me.

God is watching and aware of everything we do, including both our actions and our motives. For the follower of Jesus that should bring more comfort than pain. In fact, it should encourage us to be bold and strong for Him. In 2 Chronicles 16, God is expressing his disappointment with King Asa for not trusting Him, and in verse 9 we hear God’s purpose behind watching over us: “For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him…."

God is looking out for you to strengthen you. Be bold for him today.

Sharpening The Ax

I am just getting back from a couple days away, meeting with the healthy church life cohort of the Indiana District Assemblies of God. It is a great time of mind stretching fellowship with other pastors who are committed to personal growth. “Iron sharpens iron” in that setting.

In Mark 12:30, Jesus calls us to love God with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Getting away occasionally for study and interaction with others in a learning environment helps me to do that.

It has been said: If you want your car to run for 200,000 miles, change the oil. If you want to cut down a forest, sharpen your ax. And I would add, if you want to be your best for God, keep growing.

Rest for The Weary

Ever feel like life is accelerating beyond your capacity to keep up? Recently, the pace of life and an increase in activities have slowed the frequency of my blogging. Life’s demands are heavy on many people these days. If that is you, here is a word from God’s Word to encourage you. It comes from the Bible paraphrase called “The Message” and is found in Matthew 11:28-30. Listen closely at what Jesus has to say.

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."

The Key To Having Your Needs Met

Have you noticed that struggles and stresses are part of the standard equipment in this journey we call life? Everyone who is breathing, or reading this blog, has or will have these and other needs pop up from time to time.

What is your strategy for getting through when those times come? Reading devotionally this week I happened across 1 Peter 5:6-7, which provides God’s answer to that question: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

Notice it begins with humility. That is the key! Until we do that we are dealing with stuff in our own strength. God is inviting you and me to humble ourselves and cast all our cares on him. What do you say we turn the key?

Little Changes - Big Difference

Have you ever tried Berry Smoothie flavored gum by Extra? It’s not blackberry cobbler, but it is not bad, and I received a 15 piece pack as a gift for pastor appreciation last night.

When you open the pack it reveals Wrigley is changing from foil to paper wrappers. They estimate that by doing so, about 850 metric tons of foil will be saved from going into landfills every year; pretty significant. In their words: “Little changes can make a big difference.” Truth in a pack of chewing gum.

Little changes can make a big difference. So, what is one small change you can make in your life that will move you forward in your relationship with God? Is there something you can do this week, however small, to kickstart your spiritual journey? Here is a great promise for you, found in James 4:8, “Come near to God and he will come near to you…” Why not try it today; little changes can make a big difference.

Who Is #1?

In the world of college athletics, being #1 is the driving force and goal of every team. How refreshing it is to hear two of the most gifted and competitive young men in college football, quarterbacks from Texas and Oklahoma, speak about who is #1 in their lives. Who is #1 in your life?

Finish Strong

After two wet, dreary days, last Saturday was a beautiful day for the first Rotary Ride in Greene County. Four of us from church rode the 56 mile hilly route and Judy did the 25 mile route (I am proud of her), and all five of us finished. One of the guys began getting leg cramps half way through the course and had a fever before it was over but he endured and completed the route; a real example of perseverance.

Life is like that. There are hills to climb, obstacles to avoid, unexpected adversity happens; it is like a bike tour, definitely not a sprint. As I read the pages of Scripture, it reveals those who finished strong but also shows many who did not end well. I want to finish strong how about you?

Here is a great promise from God’s Word in James 1:12, “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”

The God Who Forgets

Some of you who read this blog regularly have erroneously thought that I had forgotten my password. Others may have thought I stopped blogging all together. OK, point made, but neither is true. I have been spending so much face to face time with people that Facebook and blogging have been nearly crowded out.

Speaking of forgetting, I ran across a remarkable verse while studying earlier this morning. In Jeremiah 31:34, God tells his people Israel that “he will remember their sins no more.” The God who made our minds with such incredible capacity for memory, himself forgets. What an incredible thought.

When we come to God and ask for his forgiveness, He chooses to forgive and forget our sins and shortcomings. Once forgiven, it is as though they never happened. He frees us from the past so we can fully live for Him in the present. I want to make the most of that.

Saying Good-bye

Yesterday a number of us did a painful thing; we said good-bye to a dear friend.
His presence throughout life had brought strength; his prayers brought the manifest presence of God. It is hard to find the right words to express what I feel, but I already miss him. I will be honored to preach his funeral later this week.

As he passed from this life to the next it left me with mixed emotions – joy for him, and sadness for the loss so many of us feel. Yet in spite of the loss, there springs from my heart a profound gratitude for the hope found in Jesus. At this most crucial point in life, Jesus delivers. We are people of unquenchable hope because of Jesus' victory over death. It gives an assurance that goes beyond the sadness of the moment, even when saying good-bye.

Grateful For Girls Ministry

It was a night of celebration as our church family gathered to honor the achievement of all the girls involved in our Girl’s Ministries. What made it even more eventful was the fact that three of our girls had achieved the highest honor possible.

I am grateful for two honor stars and one honor friend. I am grateful for the amount of effort that represents by the girls, their ministry leaders, and parents. I am grateful for all the girls active in this ministry. It is exciting to see them growing in both Bible knowledge and life skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.

Honoring Father and Mother

This past week I logged over 1,000 miles on the road - just not on the bike. It has been a week filled with ministry and a lot of travel helping my parents.

The Bible says “Honor your father and mother”, and it is the first command with promise. The question is: how to do that as we mature. At this stage of life it is no longer abiding by their rules, although when mom sets her foot down and says she and dad want to pay for lunch, I yield to their authority.

Keeping this command at this stage of life includes a number of things, staying connected, communicating – sharing what is going on in my life and hearing what is happening in theirs, praying for one another, and giving practical help when needed.

Have you honored your father and mother this week? How do you do it?

Moments, Music and Memories

Judy and I made a “not-so quick”, quick trip and brought my parents up to be with us for a few days. Music filled our day, helping the hours of the Labor Day ride back to Indiana pass more quickly. Driving along, different ones would start a hymn or worship song; many of them prompting memories - stories from the past. Some were sentimental while others were hilarious; all were meaningful.

Today made me realize I want to take advantage of moments to make good memories. It was a joy to recall and relive so many fond memories made with family. God helping me, I want to make more.

Little Things

Seems I came in contact with a new group of friends on a Tuesday evening bike ride. I cannot figure out how, but Wednesday morning I awoke with a number of little red spots on my calves, hands and arms that itch like crazy. Chiggers! Amazing how something so small can cause such a big fuss. The home remedy suggested was to cover them with some clear nail polish. No success in getting rid of the itch just yet; we’ll see if it works.

Little things can make a big difference; for good or for bad. Little habits can impact our walk with God and our relationships with others. Little details on a project can make a big difference. Little is much when God is in it! What little things do you need to think about or do today?

Hungering

In years gone by, one of the highlight of visiting family would be the final breakfast together. It was a time to enjoy the feast and the family. My aunt and grandmother would be up early fixing eggs, ham, bacon, sausage, biscuits, honey, homemade jelly, fried apples, and on the list could go. It was delicious and very filling.

I remember anticipating that breakfast long before its aroma filled the house. The hunger I experienced was not because of starvation but satisfaction. The memory of delicious foods prepared by loving family was enough to get me moving to the breakfast table.

There is a hunger for God that is like that. It is driven not by a starving soul, but simply the memory of deep satisfaction. It is the deep satisfaction we find in his presence. The forgiveness, cleansing, life, love and joy keep bringing us back.

Jesus tells us, in Matthew 5:6, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” Satisfaction awaits us!

I am hungry, how about you? God has a feast prepared for us in his presence. Let’s head for the table.

For Such A Time As This

I just finished reading the Old Testament book of Esther this morning. It is a great history lesson on the importance of faith and courage in challenging times.

Mordecai’s words in persuading Esther to boldly stand are classic: “…who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14) Esther then takes a bold stand and God uses her courageous act to dramatically save her people.

Seems to me we need those who will take a bold stand for the Lord and his cause today. Why not ask the Lord to live big in you today!

Questions

One cannot ride a borrowed bike forever so I am in the process of making a decision about what to do. It has stirred a number of questions.

Am I really serious enough to justify spending money on a new bike and the related items needed to do it successfully?

How good a bike do I need?

Will this bike meet my needs, not only now but in the years to come?

Is this the best I can do?

Do I really want to pay the price for this?

Seems there are a lot of questions to answer. I wonder if non-believers go through a similar process in coming to Christ. For me, I had been exposed to the real thing, commitment to Christ at home through prayer, Bible reading and lifestyle, as well as ministries at church. When the time came, I did not need to ask any questions, I was ready to make the plunge. Many people today do not have that background. Just wondering…

Faith vs. Feelings

Biking has been a real learning experience for me. One lesson I have learned is that when it comes to riding a bike you cannot base the decision to ride on feelings alone. Numerous times I have started a ride and for the first three miles my body was shouting: “Stop! You do not want to do this!” If the decision were based on those feelings I would never ride. Interestingly, when I ignore the clamor of feelings at the beginning of a ride, I end up enjoying the ride and having good feelings before it is over.

That is a good lesson, not only in biking but for life. We are in danger of making bad decisions when we base them solely upon feelings. As a Christian, I must rely upon the facts of Bible truth, placing my full faith and trust in God’s Word, even when my feelings say something else.

Bike vs Write

This past week was a milestone; I biked approximately 105 miles. That is the most of any week since I started riding this spring. I really enjoyed three longer rides with friends. Time with friends is good.

More "road time" meant less "computer time" - thus fewer blog posts. I hope to increase both this week.

Keep Everlastingly At It

I am settling in after a week of vacation. Have to say I really enjoyed the time away with Judy. Attending her class reunion was a unique experience unlike any other. At times I felt like a fly on the wall at a family reunion where everyone loved one another. The closeness and chemistry of this group was incredible, something I have rarely seen or experienced. Its foundation was shared faith and shared experiences that transcended time and geographic distance.

Travel to the reunion site gave us opportunity to drive through the Smoky Mountains and they certainly lived up to their name. Saw some beautiful vistas, some winding roads and had to work at making my ears pop to relieve the growing pressure from altitude changes.

It reminded me of the journey of life; winding narrow roads, pressure, so many attractions and distractions, weariness in travel, and the temptation to stop. Similar themes were expressed by reunion participants of both good and bad life experiences and a faith in God that kept them through every twist and turn of the road. Making the journey and arriving at the destination takes perseverance of faith, or as a mentor from years ago put it: “You just keep everlastingly at it.”

Redeem the Time

It has been said that time is our most precious commodity. What strategy do you have for making the most of your time?

Here are a few thoughts on the subject from yesterday’s devotional on the Linton Assembly of God website http://www.lintonag.org/

Plug The Gaps – Focus on small units of time (15 minute intervals) and concentrate on one thing at a time. This can help us seize the minutes we do have, detecting and stopping the wasteful leakage of time.

Prioritize – It is easy to get busy with things that really do not matter. Often when we feel overwhelmed, it is because we have not prioritized and have given too much time to things that are of secondary importance. Jesus provides a powerful principle for us in Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” He basically tells us to make God our priority and everything else in life will fall into its proper place.

Plan the Use of Your Time – If we fail to plan we plan to fail. Like a wood cutter who takes time away from his work to sharpen his axe, we need to disengage from activity and prayerfully plan how we want to utilize our time. This is not wasted time but strategic use of it that will pay dividends in the long run, so take the time to plan your day, week, etc.

Pray – To make changes in how we utilize our time we need the wisdom and strength of the Lord. As we take time to seek Him, He can give us the needed direction and the strength to carry it out. Points 1-3 are significantly more effective when we begin with point 4.

The Big Story--Where are you?

Here s a unique presentation from youtube. Think about it.

Part Two

The Big Story--Where are you?

Here s a unique presentation from youtube. Think about it.

Part One

Margin

Margin – it has been defined as the space between our load and our limits. We live in a hurry up, pressure cooker world. Get it done yesterday would seem to be the motto of the day. Margin is a rare commodity and getting slimmer all the time. It is something I struggle to maintain, often living without any margin between my load of responsibilities and my human limitations.

As I look at the life of Jesus Christ, seems to me He lived differently. He lived life with pace and balance. He worked, cared for people, ministered to many needs, but never appeared to move at a frenetic pace. He maintained margin. He gave us an example to follow.

This is an area where I still need to grow; to understand my limitations, to set wise, Godly priorities, allowing for needed margin in my life.

I would be interested in hearing how you maintain priorities and keep margin between your load and limitations.

Training

I just got in from a short bike ride. It provides good prayer time as I clear my head and prepare my heart for Sunday.

Currently I am training for a bike tour later this year. This week I rode nearly 60 miles, normally in 10-15 mile rides early in the morning before I begin my day’s responsibilities. Part of the routine is just to get in the miles, but even more important is to get in some hill time; to specifically push myself to get better at what is hard to do. I guess you could say I want to be more like Lance.

I am also training myself for Godliness. I want to be more like Jesus. Seems to me this also involves specific training, moving beyond the desire to specific actions that develop my spiritual life.

Sometimes it is fun, sometimes it is hard, but training has its rewards.

Rainbow Head

We called him Rainbow Head. For a couple years he seemed to show up anywhere a major sporting event was being televised. His energetic movement with bobbing rainbow-colored wig had a way of attracting the camera’s attention. Once he was the focus of attention you would see his message: JOHN 3:16.

Although you may not care for his method, you have to appreciate the message. Probably the most familiar Bible verse of all time, John 3:16 speaks of how much God cares for people. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

While we should be good managers of the resources of our planet, the context of this verse reveals it is not mountains, rivers, giraffes, zebras, whales, cats or dogs that God loves but it is people. Jesus is telling us that people matter to God! In the midst of a crazy world radically affected by sin, where sometimes it is difficult to comprehend God’s love, He has tangibly expressed it for us by sending Jesus to die on the cross for us.

You matter to God. Every person you meet today matters to God.

How To Prevent Spiritual Drainage

I read a great post yesterday by Pastor Nate Elarton and thought I would share it with you today.

"How To Prevent Spiritual Drainage"

Paying the Price

“No pain no gain.” “You have to pay your dues.” “The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.” We have all heard the catchy phrases. The challenge is to apply them.

The other day I was on the bike with the wind whistling through my helmet. Everything was great, until I hit the hills. I was trying to ride with a friend who is an accomplished rider. When we hit the hills, I hit the wall; my speed and energy dropped significantly and I just could not keep up. I had not paid the price – miles and miles on the bike with quads and lungs burning.

When it comes to spiritual things there is a price to pay also. The bad news is that the price to connect with God and spend eternity with Him is greater than you or I can pay. The good news is Jesus has already paid the price for us. Sounds like great news to me! I’ll keep working on the biking.

Legacy

I am up late tonight preparing to officiate and preach at the funeral of a friend tomorrow. Memories of his life whirl through my brain like confetti thrown on a windy day. One by one they begin to fall into a pattern, a picture of a life well lived; a life lived for God.

It makes me think about "legacy". We all are creating one. What will yours be?

Minimum Daily Requirements

I just finished a late night bowl of cereal. Ever look at that little listing on the side of your cereal box or the one on the back of the bottle of vitamins? It reveals how the contents stack up against the minimum daily requirements.

I have to admit it; I am paying more attention these days. With maturity (Judy will question that comment) comes the need to take greater care of my body.

However, it takes more than just healthy nutrition to live a vital life. Friends, family, and time with God all play a significant role.

Seems there are certain minimum requirements to living the life God intends for us, including connecting with God through time in the Bible – allowing it to speak truth into our lives, and prayer - speaking and listening to God.

Think about it. What are the minimum daily requirements for your wellbeing? Are you getting them?

Investing In One

This summer I have challenged the people of our church to strategically invest in the lives of one or two other individuals. That investment of time and prayer can make a huge difference and lead to even greater things.

A good illustration of that is the story of Grayson Rosenberger, a teen who took the time to care about one other person. It turned out that he helped many. I hope you will read the short article about his story on the following link:

http://www.christianitytoday.com/cl/2008/001/27.11.html

A Bottle of Cold Water

We in Linton, Indiana are enjoying our annual Freedom Festival this week. The week ties down with the largest July 4th parade in the state of Indiana.

This year our church is participating in the parade. Our entry will be simple, advertising our coming VBS. We will also serve our community, as a team of twenty-two from our church walk along and hand out bottles of cold water to those who are viewing the parade. We are praying that through this simple act of service many in our community will see Jesus in us. I am looking forward to it!

BLAST

BLAST This week we have been hosting our first Junior High BLAST. It has been a blast. Under the direction of Pastor Billy and Karen Worland and their helpers the numbers are growing and everyone seems to be having a great time. We are praying for God to do good things.

You can check on it and other youth ministry at “3N1” youth ministry webpage by clicking below
http://www.3n1ministries.shutterfly.com/

Ma Said!

“Ma Said!” Growing up, I was very close with my grandparents. My grandmother loved the Lord and she loved me. To me anything she said was absolute truth. There were times when I was as a young boy and I would overhear her say something and I would repeat it. If someone disagreed with me I had a simple two word response, “Ma said!”

I did not have that confidence because she was smartest grandma in the world, nor because she was more educated than anyone else on our street. It was because I knew she cared for me, and that she would not tell me anything untrue. It didn’t matter what I felt like, or what the other person thought, or what was going on around me, if Ma said it I knew it was so. “Ma said!”

As Christians we need a similar response. Whatever we may feel like, or whatever someone else thinks, or whatever is going on around us, we need to trust in God and hold to the truth of His Word. “God said!”

Hour of Power

I have been a little tired and have been experiencing writer's block. Today I met with some dear friends in our Hour of Power prayer meeting and was really refreshed as we prayed together.

It is not wasted time to wait on God and call to Him in prayer.

The Hill

Hills are killers; at least the uphill climbs. On a recent bike ride my mind was filled with thoughts of the hill at the end of the ride, endless pavement stretching to the sky. When it came time to face it for real, three things pulled me through. I was riding with a friend, I put my head down and focused on the road directly in front of me rather than the hill ahead, and I just kept pedaling.

This week I have spent alot of time at hospitals. There are a number of people facing a hill, an almost insurmountable challenge. Maybe you are too. A few lessons from my ride may help you: make the journey with someone (that is what the church is all about), focus on what is at hand, and just keep pedaling!

Most of all, remember the Lord is a way maker and a mountain mover!

Grateful for 23!

Judy and I are taking some time away today to celebrate our 23rd anniversary. How time flies when you are having fun! I will blog more next week.

Joy Replacing Fear

“The fear of rejection is the number one barrier most Christians experience when they are considering sharing their faith", writes Tom Richardson of People Reaching People Ministries. "We must face that issue and resolve it if we are going to be comfortable openly living and sharing our faith.

If the fear of rejection sometimes causes you to hesitate to be a faith-sharing Christian, I encourage you to:

1. Ask the Lord to help you identify where you have fear of rejection. Ask Him to help you identify the roots of it. Ask the Lord to show you the implications of that fear in your life as a Christian.

2. Put your reputation in God's hands. Tell Him you want to be known the same way He would be known if He lived in your world in your skin. Tell God you don't want to be known for anything more or anything less.

3. Ask the Lord to help you to live it out on a person-by-person and situation-by-situation basis.

4. If you feel you need it, ask God to bring healing to your inner being and to the experiences, emotional wounds and outlooks that have motivated you to look out for yourself.

5. Commit yourself to being diligent in your awareness of your identity being in Christ.

Putting your reputation in God's hands allows Christ to live through you to love those around you and draw them into His Kingdom. Joy will replace fear.”



Tom Richardson is a gifted teacher and has equipped many to more easily share their faith. He will be at Linton Assembly of God in all services Sunday June 14th. I hope you can join us.

Family Matters

It is so good to have Judy's father, David Plymire, coming to be with us for this final weekend of missions convention. I know his message will encourage and challenge all of us.

He and his wife Pat are veteran missionaries and great people. The ministry will be great, but best of all, they are family!

Dedication

Whenever I am with missionaries my heart is stirred. Their commitment to Christ and his cause always brings one word into focus, dedication. A pastor friend, Jerry Scott blogged on that topic today and with his permission I share his thoughts below. It is longer than my normal post but definitely worth the read.


"NBC profiled the Obama White House in a special program that aired this week. In an interview with Rahm Emanuel, the chief of staff, Brian Williams took note of the high personal cost that the 49 year old man is paying to be a part of Obama’s administration. Politics aside, one has to be challenged by the dedication to 7 day work weeks and 18 hour days. Emanuel, a four term Congressman whose dream was to become the first Jewish Speaker of the House, gave it up to serve this President. He lives apart from his wife and three children, seeing them only a few times each month. The story of sacrifice was repeated by numerous staffers. These men and women do it for a political cause, for ambition; perhaps for a man.


Disciple, we are called into the service of the Lord of Glory, whose ‘administration’ will never end. When we advance His Kingdom, we not only change the way people live for a few years; we are privileged to change hearts and reconcile people to their Father, bringing them to life eternal! It is a noble cause and it will require sacrifice. "Then Jesus said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but are yourself lost or destroyed?" (Luke 9:23-25, NLT)


Have you put parts of your life off limits before the Lord? Does He own all of you? Those are tough questions that we must answer daily. We receive the life of the Spirit once when we are converted, born anew as children of God. Remaining in His service is an ongoing process, requiring choices along the way. Jesus speaks to this when He says, “No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." (Luke 9:62, KJV) In case that metaphor is hard for you, here’s the line in The Message: “No procrastination. No backward looks. You can’t put God’s kingdom off till tomorrow. Seize the day.”


Is He able to ask you to forgive when you prefer to hate? Will you let Him call your kids into His fulltime service knowing that it will mean less comfort, less ‘success?’ Will you put aside personal desires to say ‘Yes,’ to holiness of heart and mind? Are your weekends His or yours? Being a disciple of Jesus Christ is not for wimps! Church-ianity, the preferred religion of many, allows a person to choose the hours of his ‘service,’ to give only as much of himself as he chooses to give, to volunteer and feel good about it. Christianity is an all or nothing Call to the service of a King.


Watching Rahm Emanuel explain his dedication to making the vision of President Obama a reality, I was challenged anew to give myself to my Lord and King. Here’s a word from the Word. Though familiar, I urge you to read it carefully and then take a few moments to re-dedicate ALL to Him.


"Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. Soldiers don’t get tied up in the affairs of civilian life, for then they cannot please the officer who enlisted them. And athletes cannot win the prize unless they follow the rules. And hardworking farmers should be the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor. Think about what I am saying. The Lord will help you understand all these things. Always remember that Jesus Christ, a descendant of King David, was raised from the dead. This is the Good News I preach. And because I preach this Good News, I am suffering and have been chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained. So I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen." (2 Timothy 2:3-10, NLT)

Missions Convention Pictures

Missionary Representatives

Whether in basketball, baseball or ministry, it is good to be on a team with gifted, dedicated players. Our annual missions convention at the church is this week so thought I would pass on a link for one of our team members.



http://tysontidings.com/wordpress/

I Love Missions Convention!

I love the message, the people, and the foods of our annual Missions Convention!

You cannot help but refocus on the message of the good news of Jesus and our responsibility to go, carrying that message everywhere. It always burns deeper in me after this week.

Although Facebook is great, Missions Convention is a time to reconnect “face to face” with some of the greatest people on the planet – missionaries. It is a joy to share with people who have committed themselves so sacrificially to the cause of Christ. Bernie and Brenda Smith truly exemplify that as they represent us in the nations of West Africa. What a joy to have them with us today!

And then there is the food. Seems our “Flavors Around The World” Banquet gets bigger and better each year. One friend dubbed it “around the world in eighty bites”. What a great assortment. There was something for everyone.

I cannot wait until Wednesday!

Memorial Day Remembering

I have had some difficulty attempting to embed a video on this post today. Since it will not come up, let me just encourage you, while you take time for family today, be sure to also remember and give thanks for those who have paid such a high price for the freedoms we enjoy.

God bless you and have a good Memorial Day.

Sound Bites

I’ve been a little behind in posting this week since returning from Fort Wayne. Judy and I, along with Pastor Billy and Karen, attended the Indiana District Council of the Assemblies of God earlier this week and I have been trying to get caught up ever since.

As well as taking care of business we participated in three different worship services. Dr. George Wood, General Superintendent of the U.S. Assemblies of God and Indiana District Superintendent Don Gifford were the primary speakers. Here are a few “sound bites” out of my notes.

“It is easier to blow up a bridge than it is to build one.” (The implication is: build one anyway.)

“McDonalds 3:16, Keep your eyes on your own fries.” (A call to purity in lifestyle.)

“As Spirit filled people we play from all the keys on the piano of life; from miracles to hardship.” (Don’t stop believing for miracles, and don’t stop trusting during the hard times when you do not experience miracles.)

Keep Moving!

There are times in life, for all of us, when it seems the ride is over. “Stinkin thinkin” takes over: “What’s the use… I can’t… Might as well quit… It’s over…” Sometimes it comes from us, sometimes from others.

During the Habitat ride this past week, one man who watched me struggle up a hill midway through the ride suggested that I ride in a support vehicle for a while. I am so glad I did not listen to him. It would have robbed me of the joy and success of finishing on my own.

Maybe you're tempted to give up today. But God is grabbing your attention to say, “Don't become weary in doing good . . . the harvest you've hoped for is coming.” (See Galatians 6:9.) He doesn’t want you to miss a great victory!

Too often we assume what the end will be while we are still in the middle of the ride. That's when we start leaning on our own understanding instead of trusting in the Lord with all our heart and we stop moving.

Don’t give up in the middle of the ride. The Lord has a way of giving strength to the weary, and He is never late. Keep moving!

What A Ride!

It is history; the longest bike ride of my life is over and I am still alive to write about it.
It was a beautiful day and four of us from the Linton area rode in the Habitat for Humanity ride from Linton to Bedford. Congratulations to Mark, Rich, and Carolyn, who all finished ahead of me.

We were able to raise some money for Habitat today and there might be a few good sermon illustrations come out of the experience as well. All in all, a good day.

Grateful for the beautiful day, health (tomorrow may be another story), friends, and the opportunity to do something to benefit others.

Two Days And Counting

Approximately 40 hours from now the adventure begins; a 60+ mile bike ride through the hill country of southern Indiana. I completed my last training ride early this morning. Now all that’s left to do is wait and deal with the questions: What if it is rainy and cold? Should I make any more adjustments to the bike? Can I really ride a bike over 60 miles on rough, hilly roads? Will I make it all the way?

Human nature prompts the questions. Moses questioned his ability to do what God called him to do. Abram followed but more than once tried to take things into his own hands when it seemed God wasn’t coming through. Peter stepped out of the boat in obedience to Jesus’ call, but all too soon took his eyes off Jesus and began to sink.

Whether physical or spiritual challenges, it is time to focus, move past the questions, and ride!

60+ Miles

Wow! That sounds like a LONG way! I rode 20 miles this morning prepping for this Thursday's 60+ mile ride to benefit Habitat for Humanity. (Check out the previous post for a link to pledge support.) The course is quite challenging with many bumps, curves and hills, but my goal is to endure and go the distance.

Sounds a bit like life doesn't it; bumps, curves and hills? Some days we are on a smooth downhill run, but other days everything seems like a hard, bumpy, uphill climb. If you are on the uphill climb today as a Christian, here are a few words of encouragement from God's Word.

Hebrews 12:1-3 says: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

Just one more, from Galatians 6:9, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Let's keep looking to Jesus and go the distance!

Funny Math

“When do 12 + 26 +1 = 1?” What do you think?

Here are a few hints. I am doing some bike riding to get in shape for a 61 mile bike ride from Linton to Bedford to benefit “Habitat for Humanity”. As a pastor, I had a very full, busy Sunday.

Do you know what it is yet? It will probably take more than a mathematician to get this one. So, here goes: Riding a bike for 12 miles plus 26 more miles (all in less than a 20 hour period) plus one good, busy Sunday = one grumpy pastor on Monday. Guess I have a ways to go to be like Jesus, or even Lance Armstrong.

By the way, you can join with me in supporting this worthy cause by sponsoring me on this “Habitat” ride. Check out the following website to give support: http://www.active.com/donate/2009coverindiana/davidatkins.

Swine Flu Prevention

Do not do this:

Hmm, don't you wish everything was that simple.

Have a good day!

Better Health, Better Flavor

Judy and I have one of those Britta water pitchers at home in the frig. It is the kind that you pour in the water and it filters out things that flavor or make the water unhealthy.

Wouldn't it be great to have that kind of filter for our minds? There is such a thing! It is found in Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things."

Those eight words serve as an eight-layered filter. If thoughts come that are not true, noble, right, pure, lovely..., then do not dwell on them. It is a choice we can all make. Too many go through life without giving a second thought to their thoughts. But you are what you think.

When we choose to use the filter of Philipians 4:8, it will remove unhealthy thinking and enhance the flavor of our lives. Better health and better flavor; I want that for my life. How about you?

Life Is A Donut

Life is a donut; there is the good stuff and the hole. Each of us has a choice about where we will focus; the donut or the hole. In a time where many are tightening their belts there is probably no more important principle than gratitude to help us through.

The second replacement principle from last weekend’s message is replacing worry and complaining with gratitude. Philippians 4:6 says “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Those two words “with thanksgiving” remind us that an attitude of gratitude can change our lives.

Are you worried? Count your blessings. List the things in your life that you can be thankful for. If you are intellectually honest and get focused, you will find this list can grow quite long and boost your mental state.

So, stop counting your burdens and start counting your blessings. It is amazing how it will increase your joy and help lift your load as you travel down life’s road.

The Replacement Principle

This past week David Kellermann, acting chief financial officer of mortgage giant Freddie Mac, was found dead, hung in his basement, an apparent suicide. Stress can kill you! And let’s be honest, we live in a stressful world. There are global concerns and personal problems that impact every one of us.

Some folks deal with trouble by worrying, but worrying does nothing to change the past or improve the future, it only harms the present. I have found the principles of Philippians 4 to be of much benefit in this regard. Maybe you will too.

Philippians 4:6 offers a great replacement principle to help us cope with the stress of our day: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” It is simply a choice we make to replace worry with prayer. Why not try it today.

Everything Needed

Five times today I sat down to write this blog and five times the power has gone off. Blogging from home requires power.

The refrigerator stopped working today, even when the power was on. It needs something. So do I, where did that old cooler get to anyway?

The dandy lions are reaching for the sky and the lawnmower will not start today. It does not have everything it needs (I think the gas pump has stopped working).

I have been given a bike to ride in the Habitat for Humanity ride in May. Helmet and riding pants have been purchased, yes, the skin tight padded seat kind (don’t worry mom, I’ll be decent and wear something over them). But I still do not have everything I need for the ride; enough practice miles on the bike, riding jersey and possibly rider’s gloves. Judy said it would just be easier to make a donation to Habitat and forget the rest. Hmm…smart woman!

Not having everything we need is frustrating. Ever feel like you cannot live the Christian life? Guess what, you are right! The Christian life was never meant to be lived in our strength. That only leads to frustration. The Christian life was meant to be lived in God’s provision.

I have incredibly good news for you from 2 Peter 1:3, “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” Be encouraged! God has already made available to you and me everything needed to live for Him. Let’s do it!

Wake Up Call

The video below comes from the British show "Britain’s Got Talent". It's a great reminder of God’s words to Samuel, found in 1 Samuel 16:7b, when the prophet was looking to anoint one of Jesse’s sons as king. Samuel was looking at appearances but God told him: “The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

Snap judgments based on appearances often miss the mark. Enjoy the video.

"ME"

This morning I started to back my car out of the garage, looking into the driver side mirror, but something was different. Normally I can see the garage door frame, then the landscaping tile, and eventually the basketball goal post. By seeing them I avoid them and back out safely. This morning things were different and all I could see in the mirror was me. The mirror was turned directly toward the driver’s seat and I could see nothing else.

I did manage to get out without hitting anything, but it did serve as a meaningful reminder. As long as we are so focused upon ourselves we will not get too far. Life is not about “ME”.

Whose Image?

Here is an interesting email from my friend John Bennett, who allowed me to pass it on to you.

“Recently, while listening to a message by Ravi Zacharias, I gained a new insight into a very familiar scripture (Matt. 22:15-25) – one that is quite relevant during tax season.

Some Pharisees asked Jesus if it was right to pay taxes to Caesar. The Pharisees were not seeking truth but rather to trap Jesus. To directly answer the question was to either anger the Jews or place Himself in direct opposition to Rome.

When faced with a difficult question asked by someone with ulterior motives, it is often wise to respond with another question. Jesus asked to see one of the coins used to pay Roman taxes. He then asked whose image and what inscription appeared on the coin. Obviously, the coin bore the image of Caesar and a Roman inscription. The coin was the property of Rome. Since they were using Rome’s money, Rome had the right to levy taxes on them. Jesus instructed them to give to Caesar what is due to Caesar and to God what is due to God.

In light of Jesus’ answer, anyone sincerely seeking truth would have asked the following question. What then belongs to God? Jesus might have responded, “Whose image do you bear?”

According to Genesis, we are all made in the image of God; we belong to Him. However, that image was marred by sin. Jesus came to buy us back and restore His own image in us. Clearly, the Pharisees missed the most important question.”

Joy

“It is joy unspeakable and full of glory…” so the old hymn goes. It’s true! There is joy, great joy, when we come to Jesus. Sins forgiven and living life under new management with heaven as our new destination, why would there not be joy?

Yet living in a troubled world can rob us of that joy. Jesus said, in Luke 8:14 that the worries, riches and pleasures of life can choke us spiritually and keep us from growing. It can steal our joy.

That is why I am excited about the new message mini-series starting this coming Sunday, “Finding Joy In A Troubled World”. Based in Philippians, whose core message is “joy in spite of….” It is a message we can all use. Hope to see you Sunday!

Tax Time

Wow, it is here again; time to pay those taxes. I am paying more than I am used too this year and that hurts a bit.

I do not want to pay a penny more than I owe and, as a Christian, I do not want to pay a penny less than I owe. Living true to Jesus I can do no less. Being part of His kingdom compels me to do as Jesus said when asked about taxes, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." (See Matthew 22:21)

By the grace of God, I am determined to never short change either one. That means that I pay and pray. I will pay my taxes (even when it hurts) and pray for our nation and its leaders (even when I do not agree), and I will choose to live full out for God every day of my life. What about you?

Easter Reflections

I am sitting back trying to unwind a bit after a full day of ministry. It has been good and I am grateful to God for so many who participated: drama cast, musicians/choir, audio/visual crew, greeters, etc. on the list could go.

Pastor Jeff Leake, in his blog “The LaunchPad” offered a list of things about Easter for which he is grateful. I agree wholeheartedly and thought I would pass them on to you. See if you can add anything to this list.

Because Jesus rose from the dead...
• Death is not longer something to be feared...it has been overcome.
• My life will not end with my existence on earth. I will one day get a resurrected body just like the one that Jesus has.
• I can be born 'spiritually' (born again). God imparts life into my soul right now. I no longer have to live on empty, but I can be saturated with the presence of the Holy Spirit.
• Because the risen Jesus pursued Simon Peter (even after his denial), I can be assured that FAILURE IS NOT FINAL and that GOD IS A GOD OF SECOND CHANCES.
• The devil has been defeated in every way and the curse of sin has been overcome.
• Healing for body, soul, and spirit has been released through the victory of the cross (and the empty tomb).
• I don't have to serve a dead religious hero, or pay homage to a great teacher who lived in the past and then died. But I can experience the adventure of following someone who LIVES TODAY is still very much active in the world.
• I can expect that Jesus will continue to give us convincing proof that He is alive by answering prayer and breaking through to do miracles and to demonstrate the fact that He lives.

The Great Exchange

What is the greatest exchange you ever made? Was it digital for analog, PC for Mac, old clunker for new shiny ride?

For me that's an easy question to answer. It has everything to do with Good Friday. I love how 2 Corinthians 5:21 captures the very essence of what Jesus did on the cross: "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." Nothing can touch what Jesus provided for me on the cross of Calvary.

God's grace was extended making it all possible. My sin for His righteousness - forgiveness, freedom, purpose, eternal life.... What a gift!

Have you made that exchange? There's no better time than the present to make the greatest exchange of your life.

Nothing But The Blood

The words of an old hymn are rolling over and over in my mind tonight. Simple and sweet, they remind me of the power of Jesus’ sacrifice for you and me:

“What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. O precious is the flow that makes me white as snow. No other fount I know. Nothing but the blood of Jesus.”

What could be more appropriate than that as we enter Passion Week? Hope you appreciate the clip.

Less Nosey

Every glance in the mirror now reveals a more streamlined, symmetrical appearance. It is not my physique (that’s another story) but my nose. You could not technically call it a “nose job” but I did have a mole removed. The doctor took one look at that bump growing on the right side of my nose and said I should be "less nosey", well, sort of.

The laser procedure itself was virtually painless and lasted approximately five minutes. The pain from the bill will last longer. The good news is I did not have any malignancy. Although it cost a little time and money, the preventative measure was nothing compared to the cost and pain associated with letting it grow into something more serious.

Sin is like that. If we keep short lists with God, repenting and going to Him for forgiveness the moment we sense the conviction of the Holy Spirit, the little things do not grow into bigger things. The moral of the story is simple: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Broken Branches

The sky is darkening and raindrops are lazily speckling the window. The weather forecast calls for some mild showers today with the possibility of thunderstorms in other places around the Midwest.

Sounds pretty mild compared to what has taken place in other parts of the nation. I recently saw some of the damage from ice and wind storms that left over 150,000 Kentucky homes and businesses without power earlier this year. Branches of trees were broken and down for miles along the parkway.



It brought John 15:5 to mind where Jesus paints a vivid word picture for us: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

Connection is the key. This spring those broken branches will not have the life-giving connection they need to produce leaves and fruit. In fact, the road crews had already been out cutting and clearing debris.

Jesus tells us a flourishing, worthwhile life comes from close relationship with Him. He is the source of life and vitality, the source of any lasting fruitfulness in our lives. Whether life brings mild days or stormy gales, we must remain dependent upon Jesus. A fruitful life is a dependent life.

Road Trip Reminiscing

Took a couple days to go see my parents and celebrate my mom’s 75th birthday! How time flies. Here are a few thoughts from the trip:

- Noticed the State of Kentucky website www.UnbridledSpirit.com.
It made me ask the question, is there anything in my life that grieves the Holy Spirit, thus bridling Him, or is He free to move and do in my life as He fully desires?

- The warmth of the sun through the windshield gave me a bad case of spring fever and a gratitude for the sense of touch.

- Snowball-like Bradford pear trees in full bloom, fluffy white clouds floating lazily against a light blue sky made me grateful for sight.

- Birthday dinner fajitas made me thankful for hearing, smell, and most of all, taste!

- Time with family made me thankful again for a faith-filled heritage, and the opportunity to be together.

- Family matters.

The Link

"Why me, why now. Why..." Walking through the needs, hurts, and challenges of life, it is human to ask "Why". All of us probably have been there or will experience it at some time.

That said, have you ever noticed that the Bible focuses more on "How" than "Why"? "How do I get on from here? How can I make it...?” When we move from "Why" to "How", that is where we connect with the resources of God that enable us to keep moving forward in life.

Interestingly, I recently came across a biblical response to “why”. It is in "the link".

Actually there are two. One that causes you and me problems is our link to Adam. Romans 5:12 says: "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned—".

It is because of our connection with Adam and the effect of original sin that we get death and the whole process of getting there. For me that means some aching joints, a few more wrinkles in the mirror and some gray hairs starting in the sideburns. (I try to keep them trimmed out but it seems more grow in every week!) This is also why we have wacky stuff, accidents, and illnesses. It is all a result of our "link" to Adam.

Another reason, for a follower of Christ, is our "link" to Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:10-12 says: "You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, the persecutions I endured. Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted".

Much more could be said, but the bottom line is that we can expect some difficulties as we journey through this life, and God has the resources to enable us to walk through them all.

Holy Spirit Work Through Me

Seems I have a case of writer's block this evening. However, I ran across the song below and thought it fit well with our recent emphasis upon the Holy Spirit and His ministry in our lives. It is a great prayer for any Christ follower.

More Thoughts about "English"

Before looking at some more oddities of the English language, I just have to say how grateful I am for all God is doing in our church family. There have been a number of significant answers to prayers lately. Thanks Lord!

The following "English" language thoughts make me smile and I hope they do the same for you. Even more significantly, they remind me that anyone attempting to communicate spiritual truths in English really needs the Holy Spirit's help.

English is a crazy language. Think about it, there is no egg in eggplant, nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor pine in pineapple. English muffins weren't invented in England or French fries in France. Sweetmeats are candies while sweetbreads, which aren't sweet, are meat.

We take English for granted but if we explore its paradoxes, we find that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig.

And why is it that writers write but fingers don't fing, grocers don't groce and hammers don't ham? If the plural of tooth is teeth, why isn't the plural of booth, beeth? One goose, two geese; so why not one moose, two meese?

If teachers taught, why didn't preachers praught? If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a humanitarian eat?

In what language do people recite at a play and play at a recital? Ship by truck and send cargo by ship? Have noses that run and feet that smell?

You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language in which your house can burn up as it burns down, in which you fill in a form by filling it out and in which, an alarm goes off by going on.

English was invented by people, not computers, and it reflects the creativity of the human race, which, of course, is not a race at all. That is why, when the stars are out, they are visible, but when the lights are out, they are invisible.

So, why doesn't Buick rhyme with quick?

"UP"

I am UP and at it this morning: Bible and prayer time, exercise, emails, clean UP and on to studying for weekend speaking assignments. I am pumped UP about this weekend.

One email, which is way too lengthy to share here, reminded me of the complexity of the English language. It makes me grateful for the help of the Holy Spirit in communicating the truths of God’s Word. Here’s an excerpt you might find interesting.

There is a two-letter word that perhaps has more meanings than any other two-letter word, and that is 'UP.'

It's easy to understand UP, meaning toward the sky or at the top of the list, but when we awaken in the morning, why do we wake UP? At a meeting, why does a topic come UP? Why do we speak UP and why are the Officers UP for election and why is it UP to the secretary to write UP a report?

We call UP our friends. And we brighten UP a room, polish UP the silver; we warm UP the leftovers and clean UP the kitchen. We lock UP the house and some guys fix UP the old car. At other times the little word has real special meaning. People stir UP trouble, line UP for tickets, work UP an appetite, and think UP excuses. To be dressed is one thing, but to be dressed UP is special.

And this UP is confusing: A drain must be opened UP because it is stopped UP. We open UP a store in the morning but we close it UP at night.

We seem to be pretty mixed UP about UP!

To be knowledgeable about the proper uses of UP, look the word UP in the dictionary.
In a desk-sized dictionary, it takes UP almost 1/4th of the page and can add UP to about thirty definitions. If you are UP to it, you might try building UP a list of the many ways UP is used. It will take UP a lot of your time, but if you don't give UP, you may wind UP with a hundred or more.

I hope you are UP for it.

Uncertainty

“When was the last time you rode a bike?” Suddenly that question was daunting, even haunting. Ten years, no, like a webpage stuck in a loop, my mind kept searching and searching. Other than riding a stationary bike at the gym the last couple weeks I literally could not remember when I was on one.

Last night I took a friend’s bike for a quick spin around the church parking lot. Some unsteadiness was evident and I narrowly avoided riding off into a field. Not a good start in preparing for a 40-60 mile trip.

What have I gotten myself into? Is this a smart thing to be doing? Can I really do this? There was a flood of questions in my mind.

It seems like uncertainty and fear cloud our minds most when we begin to step outside our comfort zone to do something new or different. The same is true spiritually. Ever notice when you take a step to follow God’s leading that a whole host of questions and fears arise? Sometimes it just takes guts to keep going.

As you follow God’s leading in your life, I hope you will move through the inevitable uncertainty that comes and show some guts. As for my bike ride, I am hoping it doesn’t take blood and guts.

Habitat Ride

Friends have encouraged me to ride in Habitat for Humanity’s “Ride Across Indiana” this May. Looks like it might actually happen. A bike has been offered and a few people have already voiced a willingness to support me, kicking in money for Habitat if I ride.

It could be an adventure. But it is going to take more than just a “will to ride” to make it happen. Desire alone won’t move me across the finish line. It will take a “will to work to ride” so that I actually get into shape before May. Follow this blog for updates and the final outcome; maybe even a few pics.

So often the winning equation in both life and faith is: desire + discipline. Desire gets us going, discipline keeps us going. We need both.

I’m grateful that the Holy Spirit helps believers on both counts. He prompts us concerning the things of God, creating desire, and He produces self discipline within us as we yield to Him.

Sort Of Like Driving Through Iowa

“Sort of like driving through Iowa”. Does that describe your Bible reading lately? That is how Mark Batterson describes his reading of Leviticus. In his March 8 blog he goes on to say: “after a while the flat land and corn rows can get a little mind numbing. But you've got to keep driving….it's the flat lands of Iowa that help you appreciate the mountain ranges of Colorado.”

A number of us have completed Leviticus recently. At times it may have felt mind-numbing, but a key to remember is that you’ve got to keep reading. I appreciate the "mountain peak" of Jesus’ sacrifice more after moving through the "flat land" of Leviticus. Don’t you? Let's keep reading.

Margin

One of the greatest challenges I am facing lately is finding “margin” in my life, that time for rest, relaxation and recreation. Although I am a follower of Jesus, and He took time away, I find it hard to do that. Seems there is always something else to do or someone else to see. I relate strongly with the plaque in one pastor’s office that read: “God has given me so much to do, and I am so far behind, I will never die.” Sometimes it feels that way.

At a cognitive level, I understand that rest is not laziness, nor is it sin. But something inside pushes me to do just one more thing, make one more call, to stay up to write one more post for this blog… It all matters. It is all about Jesus and about people. That stirs me, moves me, it motivates me to keep going. The challenge is to find the right balance between hard work and rest that will bring the optimum glory to Him.

Turning 50

It is hard to believe it, but this weekend I turn fifty. It seems odd. I may be hitting the half century mark but I still feel like I am twenty-five, at least until I try to do some of the things I did at that age. But turning fifty isn’t all bad, for instance, my father-in-law reminded me that in some cultures I am just now old enough to grow a beard. Hmm…

I’m not exactly sure what “turning fifty” means. But one thing I am sure of, fifty is not twenty-five. Fifty is more; more weight, more wrinkles, more gray hairs, hopefully a little more wisdom; it is just more. It also means more opportunity to serve the Lord and others. Just hours away from this significant milestone, I am making the choice to serve God more faithfully, follow Him more closely, and love others more deeply, to offer the best I have, turning fifty.

Let Go & Set Sail

I am “pumped” about our March Sunday morning message series, “Let Go and Set Sail”. It is all about letting go of the things that hinder us from following the leading of the Holy Spirit, and energetically giving ourselves to follow wherever He leads. It is about adventure!

Imagine a sailing vessel sitting in harbor. The beauties and adventure of sailing the Caribbean awaits you. All that is needed to experience the adventure of a lifetime is to untie what holds you in dock, set your sails, and catch the wind.

The Christian life is a call to adventure, a call to let go and set our sails for the wind of the Holy Spirit; to follow His leading. Too many people settle for a life tied to the shoreline, when all along the wind of the Spirit is blowing. Do not settle for the harbor when God has adventure for you!

It is going to be an exciting few weeks. Hope to see you Sunday!

“Tradewinds 2” and the Holy Spirit

“Tradewinds 2” is a computer game involving commerce, strategy, and guts. Starting with a sailing vessel and $1000, a player sails the Caribbean, buying and selling merchandise, performing assignments for governors, avoiding storms and battling pirates. It is a wind-driven adventure.

In John 3:8 Jesus said, “The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”

The Christian life is to be a Spirit-driven adventure. The Bible is filled with stories of men and women whose lives were marked by drama, passion & excitement. Too many today seem to think that “Christian adventure” is an oxymoron, a contradiction in terms like old news or jumbo shrimp. Adventure is at the heart of Christianity. Are you ready to let go of the shore? Ready to set sail? The wind of the Spirit is blowing.

Send It On Down

Here's a link my friend Pastor Phil Curtis brought to my attention. It seems appropriate for us this week, so turn up the speakers and give God praise!

A Few Things I Am Grateful For

I am grateful for a good weekend, the move of the Holy Spirit
I am grateful for those who came with hungry hearts and sought God
I am grateful for water baptism in the morning
I am grateful for Spirit baptism in the evening
I am grateful for a heritage open to the ministry of the Holy Spirit
I am grateful for a great church family
I am grateful for all those participating in the Easter choir
I am grateful for leaders stepping up to take care of things
I am grateful for my wife
I am grateful for health
I am grateful for people who are reading the Bible this year
I am grateful for people checking out our website and this blog
I am grateful for you!

What are you grateful for today?

My Bible Journey

Here are a few nuggets of truth from my Bible reading the past few weeks (in the New Living Translation):

Acts 13:22-23 – OBEDIENCE is huge! God draws a contrast between King Saul & David, saying of David: “…he will do everything I want him to”. Obedience is HUGE!

Acts 14:11-20 – People are fickle.

Acts 14:21 – Sometimes it takes GUTS to serve God.

Acts 14:19-20, 16:1 – Paul’s place of great pain (stoning), became a place of great gain (Timothy). It can be true for you too!

Exodus 1:8-21 – Fear of others and a lack of knowledge drives people to mistreat others. Fear of God leads to blessing.

Exodus 14 – God can make a way where there seems to be no way.

Acts 16:25-30 – There is power in PRAISE!

Matthew 16:24 – Jesus: “…If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross, and follow me.”

Psalm 37:23 – “The steps of the godly are directed by the LORD. He delights in every detail of their lives.”

Psalm 37:30 – “The godly offer good counsel; they know what is right from wrong.”

Psalm 37:34 – Don’t be impatient for the LORD to act! Travel steadily along his path.”

I would enjoy hearing what you are gleaning from your Bible reading.

John 3:16

Although it was one of the first verses I memorized as a child, John 3:16 never grows old. What a marvelous truth! Here is a favorite explanation of this most significant verse:

John 3:16
For God = The Greatest One
so loved = The Greatest Degree
the world = The greatest amount of people
that He gave = The greatest generosity
his one and only Son = The greatest uniqueness
that whoever = The greatest invitation
believes in Him = The greatest simplicity
shall not = The greatest certainty
perish = The greatest possible loss
but = The greatest difference
have = The greatest possession
eternal = The greatest length
life = The greatest gift

You are valued more deeply than you can dream or imagine.

Honoring Andy

This past week, Linton said “good-bye” to its #1 fan, Andy Barnes. It is amazing the number of lives he touched in his 38 short years here. Standing in the long line to enter the funeral service only served to confirm that fact. Anyone who is someone in our town was there, from government and school leaders to a large student contingent; it seemed all ages and all strata of society where in attendance.

It was a beautiful celebration of Andy’s life. Andy loved sports, specifically Linton sports. Dressed in red and blue school colors, he never missed a game but was always there cheering and encouraging the team. He had an infectious love of life, sports, other people and His Lord Jesus. He was genuine, kind and fun. He will be missed.

Seems we would all do well to take a page or two from his playbook.

Abraham Lincoln's Birthday

Today is the birthday of Abraham Lincoln. I just wanted you to know that. Seems our 16th President's birthday is getting lost amid the attention being given to another birthday, that of Charles Darwin. Chuck Colson writes eloquently about them in “Shaping the Modern World: Lincoln and Darwin”. Just click on the link below for his article.

http://www.crosswalk.com/news/commentary/11599510/

Facebook Turns Five

Facebook, the popular social networking site, just had a fifth birthday on February 5th. Although utilizing its services for only a couple months, I have already enjoyed reconnecting with friends from days gone by and found it helpful in communicating with current friends and acquaintances. It has been a blessing.

As with any technology, it holds opportunity for both good and bad. I recently ran across a listing of suggestions by Dr. Albert Mohler for, in his words, “safeguarding the social networking experience”. If you are a Facebook user, let me know what you think of his suggestions listed below.

1. Never allow social networking to replace or rival personal contact and communication. God made us to be social creatures that crave community. We cannot permit ourselves to substitute social networking for the harder work of building and maintaining personal relationships that are face to face.

2. Set clear parameters for the time devoted to social networking. These services can be seductive and time consuming. Social networking (and the Internet in general) can become obsessive and destructive of other relationships and higher priorities for the Christian.

3. Never write or post anything on a social networking site that you would not want the world to see, or anything that would compromise your Christian witness. There are plenty of young people (perhaps older persons now, too) who are ruining future job prospects and opportunities by social networking misbehavior. The cost to Christian witness is often far greater.

4. Never allow children and teenagers to have independent social networking access (or Internet access, for that matter). Parents should monitor, manage, supervise, and control the Internet access of their children and teens. Watch what your child posts and what their friends post.

5. Do not allow children and teens to accept any "friend" unknown to you. The social networking world can be a dangerous place, and parental protection here is vital.

6. Encourage older friends and relatives to sign up and use the technology. Grandparents can enjoy keeping up with grandchildren and with friends and loved ones separated by distance or mobility.

7. Use the social networking technology to bear witness to the Gospel, but never think that this can replace the centrality of face-to-face evangelism, witness, and discipleship.

8. Do all things to the glory of God, and do not allow social networking to become an idol or a display of narcissism.

Sore, Fat Pastor

I just finished a week of workouts at the gym. What a huge difference one week makes! – uh, not really. No visible muscle gain, no visible weight loss, nothing at all, except that I am now a SORE, fat pastor. Two options exist: to quit because nothing seems to be happening, or to keep going and do the workouts, anticipating the benefit to come.

We have the same options spiritually. Too often people quit too soon. They tried reading the Bible or having a daily prayer time for a week, only to stop because it seemed nothing was happening.

The benefits of working out are not readily evident after a day or even a week of trying. It takes training to see ongoing benefit. If I continue to train at the gym, I will see positive results. If you and I continue to train spiritually, giving ourselves to seeking God, we will see even greater results. Here is God’s word on the topic: “…train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” (1 Timothy 4:7b-8 NIV)

I want that value, how about you?

Give To Caesar...

Headlines from recent days: Timothy Geithner apologized to Congress for what he called “careless mistakes” in failing to pay $34,000 in taxes. Tom Daschle asked for his nomination to be withdrawn following a controversy over unpaid taxes. Nancy Killefer, nominated as budget watchdog, also withdrew her nomination over tax issues. Geithner, Killefer, Daschle. Hmm.

This is a real simple post today. If you are a Christian, do not cheat on your taxes. Pay what you owe. In Mark 12:17, Jesus said “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” As followers of Christ we need to do both!

The Charlie Schulz Philosophy

I received the following in an email today. Love the Peanuts! It's a great message isn't it?

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the 'Peanuts' comic strip.
You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just read the e-mail straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.
4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

How did you do?
The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday.
These are no second-rate achievers.
They are the best in their fields.
But the applause dies.
Awards tarnish.
Achievements are forgotten.
Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:
1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special!!
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?
The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials...the most money...or the most awards. They simply are the ones who care the most.

''Be Yourself. Everyone Else Is Taken!"