Ed Garvin

The Ice Cream Man

2012-01-11T15:06:00.001-08:00

I have a confession to make. I hate the ice cream man. He takes a nice content moment and turns it into cravings for something my children don’t need and can’t afford – and turns contentment into discontentment. But there’s an awful lot of ice cream trucks out there, aren’t there? They don’t all go around with children’s music piping out of their speakers – but they can make us feel discontent no matter what we have.

For me they are things like “For sale” signs in front of homes we can’t quite afford, classified ads for cars that are nicer and newer than what I drive, going to people’s homes where they have much nicer furniture or really cool home stereo systems. Just as worry and anxiety can steal our joy and keep us from living a fulfilled life, discontentment can do just the same thing. If we want to be joyful, somehow we’ll have to discover a way to find contentment in our present situation.

Want some good news? No matter what is happening in your life, you can know contentment. God’s word tells us how to do it:

First, He tell us that Contentment is a Learned State. Contentment is not something that comes naturally. Paul said that he had to“learn to be content”

Secondly, Contentment is Not Found in Possessions or Circumstances!
“ know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.”
Scripture declares that regardless of our circumstances, whether we have money or not, whether we have abundance or are in a very strained circumstances, we can still have contentment because the secret is something other than what we do or do not possess. Paul tells Timothy that we start with nothing and we end with nothing. So contentment is not about what we accumulate, it is about living with satisfaction one day after another. “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have….”

Third, Contentment Comes From Learning To Appreciate What We Have in Jesus Christ.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” True contentment comes from living life understanding that everything pales in comparison to knowing Christ.

Consider this: US News and World Report did a study on the American Dream. The story said that for Americans with household incomes of under $25,000, polls showed these people believed it would take $54,000 to fulfill the American dream in their lives. The same survey also showed that for those who make $100,000, they’d like to make about $192,000 for their version of the American dream.

In other words, the American Dream usually lies nearly twice the distance away, at least financially.

So if the secret to being content is not in amassing personal wealth or getting everything you want, how can we know contentment?

What is the secret? “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Paul echoes the teaching of Jesus, when he said "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.

It doesn’t get much clearer, does it? Apart from Christ we can do nothing of lasting value in our lives, but we can do everything through Christ who gives us strength. One of those “everythings” is finding contentment in all situations.

Whether we are experiencing plenty or want in our life right now – the secret to being content is staying connected to Jesus. It is HIS strength that will provide the contentment we need. It is HIS power that will help us find hope even when the cupboards are bare.

When we spend time on a regular basis praying to Jesus, studying God’s Word, and surrendering our life to the power of the Holy Spirit, we discover that no matter what else is going on in our life – we feel more content. Why? Because when we’re living our life connected to Jesus Christ, we come to understand that nothing happens to us without His knowledge. Nothing that happens, either good or bad, can take us away from God’s love, and He has our final destination in mind!

A Christmas Lesson From Rudolph

2011-12-12T17:36:00.000-08:00

“Rudolph with your nose so bright, won’t you guide my sleigh tonight?” As I take a few moments to write a devotional thought, this familiar family classic is on television. A reindeer with a glowing nose and an elf with dreams of becoming a dentist discover that if you press on through adversity dreams can come true. We all love the idea of an adventure. Even as children we recognized the idea of finding a lost treasure or embarking on an epic journey seemed to be woven into our core character. Our childhood dreams were filled with wonder, and in those dreams we became all our heart desired and hopes held. We believed that Rudolph could guide the sleigh and Hermey had the ability to become a dentist. The truly wonderful aspect of childhood is we never had to consider the cost.

James and John grew up on the water. As young boys they would play along the shore as their father, Zebedee would mend the nets. They had escaped the heat of countless Summer days by swimming off the dock while awaiting their father’s return from a day on the lake in search of fish. Those childhood years along the Galilean seashore were filled with wonder, two brothers wide-eyed dreams of adventure.

“Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.”

Matthew 4:21-22

Their childhood days over, James and John were now old enough to assume a greater role in the family business. They were fishermen, just as their father, grandfather, etc. It was who they were. At least it was who they were until “Come, follow me.” It was a simple statement requiring a simple response. The cost however was not so simple. Family expectations, an unknown future, and social pressure meant this seemingly simple response required the resolve of countless questions.

“Truly I tell you,” Jesus said to them, “no one who has left home or wife or brothers or sisters or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God will fail to receive many times as much in this age, and in the age to come eternal life.” Luke 18:29-30

Many of those dreams from childhood can and should be passed off as juvenile fantasy. Others are seeds of the life calling God has for us. The key to determining which are mere fancy and which are our ordered steps will be found as we “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.”

James and John immediately left their nets because they had long before determined that the dream is worth the cost. Through the price paid dreams become reality and the manifold blessing of God is realized. Hermey became a dentist and Rudolph guided Santa’s sleigh, it as a heartwarming story. James and John paid the price and their story is told 2,000 years later. It makes one wonder, what story will be told of you?

Blessings!

What Jesus Think About Santa Claus

2010-12-09T09:14:00.000-08:00

The outfit is unmistakable, the mode of transportation totally unique, and the occupation…. well that is an area were opinions differ widely. For some Santa Claus is the heart of the holiday season, for others he is a welcome diversion from the mundane of everyday life, and for others he is an unwelcome distraction from the real reason to celebrate this time of year.

My childhood home was a place where the story of the jolly bearded gift giver was readily told. Some of my most vivid childhood memories surround the story of Santa. I will never forget looking out the window hoping to catch a glimpse of Saint Nick and his sleigh only to find a teen-aged neighbor looking in the window… yikes! I can still see the room full of bicycles when “Santa” brought 8 bikes to our home, one for each of the children still living at home. It seems only yesterday when I discovered the truth regarding the reality of Santa Claus and forever changed the way I looked at this childhood hero.

I have sung the carols, watched the Christmas television specials, and once wore the red hat as volunteer bell ringer for the Salvation Army. All the while I gave very little thought to the fact and fiction surrounding Santa. There seemed to be no reason to debate the validity or value of the Santa story. Parenthood finally forced me to consider my views on Saint Nick. With the traditions of Santa Claus deeply woven into the culture of society and family, it was imperative I have an answer for my children that would reflect our values and stand the test of time. What did I tell my children? First some facts :)

THE FACTS – The story of Santa Claus finds its roots in the 4^th century AD in the life of Bishop Nicholas of Smyrna (modern day Turkey). Nicholas is believed to have been from a very wealthy family whose Godly parents died during an epidemic while he was quite young. Nicholas firmly embraced the faith of his parents, stayed committed to the church and eventually entered the priesthood. Nicholas showed his devotion to God in extraordinary kindness and generosity to those in need. Nicholas gave much of his family’s wealth away, with a special interest in the needs of children. Among the stories attributed to Nicholas is of him anonymously providing the dowries for a poor man with three daughters, saving them from the likelihood of slavery. Under the Roman Emperor Diocletian, who ruthlessly persecuted Christians, Bishop Nicholas suffered for his faith, was exiled and imprisoned. Upon his release he attended the Council of Nicea in 325, and eventually made his way back to Myra. He faithfully served God his entire life, demonstrating true humility, steadfastness of faith, and a compassionate heart.

Nicholas died in 343 AD on December 6. His life would soon after be commemorated with the “Feast of Nicholas” held each December 6^th. Over time numerous traditions became associated with these annual celebrations. On St. Nicholas' Eve, youngsters would set out food for the saint, straw for his horses and schnapps for his attendant. The next morning, obedient children awoke to find their gifts replaced with sweets and toys. With the Reformation the “Feast of Nicholas” and “Eve of Nicholas” all but disappeared from the calendar. Oddly, The Puritans contributed greatly to the secularization of Christmas, being strongly opposed to any Christmas celebration. As time passed the traditions of Christmas and the “Feast of Nicholas” morphed into our Christmas celebrations

There are certainly many other influences that have over time shaped and distorted the story of Saint Nicholas and brought us to our modern day Santa Claus. However, we would do well to tell the story of Santa’s origin and the Godly heart and determination of Santa’s namesake.

THE FIGHT - Santa has been blamed for the secularization of Christmas, and yet no historical figure other than Jesus has done more to bring attention to the celebration of Christ’s birth. Santa is often mistakenly attributed with the commercialization of Christmas gift-giving, yet even those who have no belief or tradition of Santa readily admit that the are prone to unhealthy excess in the Holiday season. Some have gone so far as to associate Santa with the satanic, yet the values demonstrated in Santa find no connection with Hell’s inhabitants. The true fight is not with Santa, it is with the distortions that have permeated the story over the years.

THE FRUIT - The challenge of looking beyond the trivial to the truth is as old as the story of Christmas itself, as King Herod could readily testify. I am convinced Charlie Brown’s best friend, Linus put it best when answering Chuck’s question of the true meaning of Christmas: “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’ “That’s the true meaning of Christmas Charlie Brown.”

THE FINAL WORD - I am convinced Jesus response to the question of His opinion regarding Santa Claus would be the same as Santa’s response regarding the question of his opinion of Jesus: “It is too bad that people don’t take the time to truly know him… because understanding who he really is has the potential to be life changing!”

By the way, Jodi and I explained to our children that imagination is a gift from God and the imaginary character of Santa Claus reminds us of a man who lived a long time ago whose devotion to God is worth remembering….. and modeling!

Merry Christmas!!!!

Ten Things I Think I Think - October 2010

2010-10-29T04:20:00.000-07:00

1. The time is right for Steve Jobs to announce the new Apple ICar. If Apple were to make the Apple ICar it would look a lot like the latest Acura RL, that car is incredible.

2. It should be against the law for McDonalds to call it a McRib sandwich. You are not fooling us McDonalds…. But I do love the sweet tea!

3. I am so glad the midterm elections are just a few days away, and then we will be done with all of the angry advertisements. The current political climate in our nation leaves a great deal to be desired. I am hopeful that someone will actually address issues and leave the negative commentary regarding the opposing party alone.

4. If Apple announced the Apple Icar and it looked like the old AMC Pacer I would still be tempted to buy it…. As long as it wasn’t the Levis version. That car had denim interior and fake stitching in the exterior paint. It gave a whole new meaning to the word ugly.

5. There is an amazing window of opportunity for the church today to offer real answers.

6. This year we will put colored lights on the Christmas tree at the Garvin house. I don’t like them, but Jodi does. Most years she defers to my preference, this year she wins…. Don’t tell her! :)

7. Fox News uses the “Breaking News” tag way too often. If the news is over 24 hours old it is not “breaking”. I am just saying!

8. Pumpkin bars will be in Heaven. Pumpkiny goodness topped with mouthwatering icing, I can almost here the angels singing.

9. Our Missions Team at First Assembly of God Bloomington-Normal is outstanding. Hulda Buntain speaking in front of a 20 foot tall Taj Mahal, Michael McNamee joining us for a banquet with food from one of the areas top chefs, and Dwain Jones challenging us on Faith Promise Sunday. Very cool.

10. I am challenged to lead our church to a greater commitment to seek God with passion. The impact the Holy Spirit can have on us and we can have on our culture is massive.

By the way, I bet you are still thinking about the whole ICar idea. :)

Facebook Friendship

2010-10-02T20:38:00.000-07:00

I know that facebook isn't “real” life, but i've decided just the same, never to delete a friend because they offend me. (bore me maybe) In the real world I can't just make people disappear. I either avoid them, ignore them or get used to them...hopefully i love them =)

This was a recent status update posted by one of my Facebook friends. The same day another status update stated, “ Friends, I am editing my friends list. there are so many people that I am not even sure who they are. If I delete you in error, please forgive me in advance and just request me to readd you. Thanks!”

These simple, yet profound statements beg the question, how do we define friendship in a Facebook world?

A quick glance at my profile on Facebook informs me that I currently have 1,314 friends. Among those listed are people I have known for years who are very dear to me, friends who have shared in my triumphs and tragedies. Also included are “Facebook Friends,” people I have never met who have requested to be my “friend” because of similar interests or similar friends. There are folks on my list who would rush to my aid in time of need, there are individuals classified as friends according to Facebook who likely would not recognize my name if I were to call. Do I truly have 1,314 friends? Is there a determining factor in friendship?

Friendship was so much easier to define on the schoolyard playground. A friend picked you first for kickball regardless of how good you were. A friend took care of you when your mother thought tuna fish was a good idea for a sack lunch. A friend came to your rescue when others began to call you names. The rare best friend embraced all of these qualities and more. David Lane was such a friend, so a trickle of blood flowed from the pin prick in my finger as I handed the needle taken from my mother’s sewing kit and handed it to the person I was sure to be the best friend in the world. David took the needle, pricked his finger, and as we pressed our fingers together we became “blood brothers,” a designation we knew nothing could separate…. Lifelong friends!

While I am grateful that the concept of “blood brothers” did not join me in the transition from the childhood friendships to adult relationships, there is a great deal we can learn about true friendship by revisiting our childhood connections. Lessons that stand in stark contrast to the Facebook friendship philosophy that has become all too prevalent. Here are a few thoughts:

1. Friends cannot simply remove someone from a friends list -

True friendship does not exist without forgiveness - Friendship requires that we are kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another just as God in Christ Jesus has forgiven us. It is impossible to have genuine relationship without walking through conflict. The strength of the friendship is not determined by the amount of conflict, it is determined by the health of the conflict resolution. It is all too easy to delete people from our friends list that we have no relationship with. Unfortunately, our Facebook culture has diminished our understanding of friendship to the point that we are way too comfortable deleting genuine friends from our life rather than dealing with conflict that will lead to stronger relationship. Proverbs 17:9 says, “Love forgets mistakes.” Loyalty was understood and valued on the grade school playground!

2. Friendship hurts sometimes –

“Dude, that is what you are wearing on picture day… you look so silly!” Billy Kramer made this statement as I arrived at the bus stop. A quick sprint to his house and a borrowed shirt saved me from a yearbook disaster. Faithful are the wounds of a friend!

We have to be open, honest, frank. Proverbs 24:26 rings true, “An honest answer is the sign of a true friendship.” Being candid and being connected go together. We don’t have one without the other. Genuine, healthy, deep, meaningful relationships are built on honesty not on flattery. If you’ve got somebody who’s kissing up to you, always telling you what you want to hear, they don’t really love you. They’re using you. Flattery is a sign of a manipulator, not a sign of somebody who’s genuinely your friend. Genuine friendships, genuine relationships are candid. They’ll tell you when you’ve got spinach in your teeth. They’ll tell you when you’re blowing it. They’ll tell you when you’re wasting your life, making a dumb, bad decision. Why, because healthy relationships are built on honesty. All of us have blind spots. The question that really matters is, do you have anybody in your life that loves you enough to point them out? Who cares enough to say, “You need to work on this.” Thanks again Billy!!!!!

3. Friendship requires that we are mindful of our words –

True friendship demands that we are mindful with our words, understanding the power of the pen and the power of the tongue. It is too easy to write a manipulative status update or critical comment. Friends understand the value of praising in public and correcting in private. A friend will live out Ephesians 4:29 “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

4. Friendship is more than words –

When someone speaks to you face-to-face the percentage of the meaning that is actually in the words, as opposed to the body language and tone of voice is 7 percent. The other 93 percent is nonverbal, according to studies. Yes the studies are real and No, I don't know how they arrived at that exact number. But we didn't need it. I mean, come on. Most of our humor is sarcasm, and sarcasm is just mismatching the words with the tone. Like my friend's "No, thank you." You don't wait for a girl to verbally tell you she likes you. It's the sparkle in her eyes, her posture, or the way she looks at you. When we're living in the land of Facebook, all that is stripped away. There's a weird side effect to it, too: absent a sense of the other person's mood, every line we read gets filtered through our own mood instead. The reason I read my friend's chili message as sarcastic was because I was in an irritable mood. In that state of mind, I was eager to be offended. And worse, if I do enough of my communicating this way, my mood never changes. After all, people keep saying nasty things to me! Of course I'm depressed! It's me against the world!

Friends, Much of who we are is a product of our friendships. “As iron sharpens iron, so one sharpens another.” I am a reflection of the 1,314+ people that I count as friends. I can not delete you from my life without deleting a part of me. I will be your friend even when it is painful. I will do my best to watch my words and make sure that I make the necessary connections with you to communicate what truly needs to be said beyond mere words. I appreciate the honesty of the two status updates I shared at the beginning of this note, but have determined that I want to adopt the first as my own…

Have a great day friend!

Sticks and Stones

2010-09-14T16:27:00.000-07:00

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words….”

While it is true that sticks and stones may hurt, Proverbs declares the greater potential danger is found in our words: “Life and death are in the power of the tongue.” Solomon speaks of the power of our speech. He reminds us that a timely word brings tremendous peace and a sense of value, while an unkind expression will often fuel a hurricane of emotional and spiritual devastation, many times leaving a shipwrecked relationship in its wake.

The realization of this truth should lead to the conclusion that as Christians we must be mindful of Paul’s exhortation to “not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Yet sadly, this is all too often not the case. If we were to be honest with ourselves, we would be forced to acknowledge that the critical disposition, or critical spirit is at an epidemic proportion in the church today.

The reality is that it is all too easy to drift away from the biblical command to “encourage one another and build each other up” and find ourselves walking with a critical disposition. Romans asks the question, “Why do you criticize and pass judgment upon your brother? Or why do you look down and despise your brother?” The critical disposition is a familiar trap Satan uses to rob us of our joy and cripple us relationally.

Romans declares that if we continue to walk with a critical disposition that we are worthy of death. Jesus instructed us as His followers to bless those who curse us and to extend forgiveness to those who wrong us, stating in Matthew 6:15 that if we walk in bitterness and unforgiveness that our eternal destiny is in question. It would seem wise then to take a look at the sources of the critical spirit and explore a biblical solution to this vexing problem.

One of the first questions to consider is what is a critical spirit. It can best be described as an ongoing attitude of criticism and fault finding. The fuel for the critical spirit can come from a variety of sources:

Lost Grace – previous experiences where we either did not receive forgiveness or have not offered forgiveness will energize the critical spirit. It is a profound truth that “hurt people, hurt people!” Many times the lack of grace in our homes growing up will nurture a critical spirit that manifests itself once we reach adulthood. (Hebrews 12:15)

Personal Insecurity – A natural response to feeling devalued is to draw attention to what we perceive as negatives of others. We see ourselves as unworthy, unattractive or inadequate and find that pointing out the weaknesses of others works as an anodyne to keep us from having to deal with our own pain.

An Unyielded Mind - The prevalent response in the world around us to the weaknesses of others is it capitalize on the opportunity to criticize, poke fun or otherwise speak negatively about the person. As Christians we are not to act that way and are instructed in Romans 12:2 to not follow the pattern of this world.

Immaturity – The immature believer who has not progressed in their own faith remain overly dependent upon the faith in others. The danger of becoming critical of the flaws in those around them as a defense to their own shortcomings is great.

Satan - The Devil specializes in capitalizing on unhealthy behavior. He constantly uses any of our weaknesses to influence a complaining or critical disposition in us.

The source of our battle with the critical spirit is many times obvious. Finding a solution can prove much more challenging. Not because the solution is difficult to find, but because of the discipline necessary for the solution to prove effective.

Dr. David H. Fink, a psychiatrist for the veterans administration, wrote an article for Coronet Magazine, entitled, “Release from Nervous Tension” in which he outlined his research into the causes of mental and emotional disturbances. From over 10,000 case studies, he discovered that there was a common trait with all his patients who suffered from severe tension. They were habitual fault-finders, constant critics of people and things around them. Those who were free from tension, were the least critical. His conclusions were that the habit of fault-finding is a prelude or mark of the nervous, or the mentally unbalanced. Those who wish to retain good emotional and mental health, should learn to free themselves from a negative and critical attitude.

We can rightly conclude that it is in our best interest to walk free from a critical spirit, recognizing the damage it does to our earthly relationships, our heavenly relationships, and our own sense of well being. Victory is found in the daily reminder that we are no longer our own, that we were bought with a price. God’s Lordship must include both our hurts and our thoughts. We have to continually push back the patterns of this world and welcome the transformation that results from allowing God to renew our mind. If you find yourself feeling victimized by the words of others, follow the biblical directive to not only forgive them, but to bless them. The freedom that is found in extending the blessing is truly amazing. If an honest examination of your own conversation and attitude reveals a tendency toward the critical spirit determine to remind yourself daily of God's directives and commit to discovering the source of your critical spirit, realizing that it does not originate in the failings of others.

Remember this, the Bible doesn’t promise peace to those who dwell on the faults of others! It says that “the Lord will keep them in perfect peace, whose minds are stayed on Him!” Let’s let the words of our mouth and the meditations of our heart be found acceptable in God’s sight.

By the way… you look great today!

Generations

2010-09-04T08:52:00.000-07:00

The emerald green landscape of the Irish countryside and the breathtaking beauty of the "Giants Causeway" welcomed me to the land of my forefathers this past week. I visited the home of a hero of the faith in John Knox and learned of the tremendous religious conflict that has scarred this amazing region. I walked the pathways of Garvins past and took in the views of those who sacrificed much so I could enjoy the many blessings that are mine today. It was an amazing journey.

I am convinced that each one of us have an inherent affinity for the homeland of our ancestral heritage, and I was blessed with the opportunity to visit Ireland and Scotland, the land my of my family in previous generations. It is good to be home and I am navigating the issue of jet lag fairly well. Travel delays and lost luggage brought some frustration and some well needed reflection. My journey from the United States to Ireland and then Scotland was the reverse of my ancestors. My travel time to Ireland and Scotland was just under one day, their venture a significantly greater story. I wonder...

I wonder what the thoughts of William Garvin were when he voted in the General Assembly of Scotland in favor of the national covenant called the "Kings Confession" Scotland denounced the practices of the Pope and embraced the reformation of the church. I would love a window into the life of John Garvin who moved his family from Dunbarton, Scotland to Armagh, Ireland as part of King James' initiative give more Protestants land in Ireland to bring greater protestant influence to the region. It would be wonderful to know the thoughts of Rev. Samuel Garvin who brought his family to Pennsylvania in 1763 answering the call for the need of a "Covenanter" pastor. I find myself wondering aloud of the many in my family's history whose stories I may never uncover, and am so grateful for this history of my family that has been recorded. Their journey to America and the journey in their faith serves as a solid foundation on which my children can build our family heritage.

The Garvin family story is not unique. The many who have sacrificed in your family history, who sacrificed much and stood bravely in the midst of overwhelming obstacles affords you the opportunity to freely be who you are today. The question and challenge for us is what will future generations say about our journey. Will they speak of character and courage? Will they tell of sacrifice and significance? Will they discover faith and faithfulness?

My renewed commitment today is to honor my family name... not just the name Garvin, but the name of my Heavenly family:

"For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:14-20

Reflections on The End of Summer

2010-08-14T11:30:00.001-07:00

A quick glance at today’s thermometer and one would find it hard to believe that end of Summer is soon upon us. Before we know it our neighborhood streets will once again be filled with busloads of school children, talk of Friday night football games will enter the conversations, and life will return to a sense of normalcy. If you are at all like me this time of year is always bittersweet. While I love all of the activities of summer, I welcome the routine that September brings.

I am convinced that we all have a desire for adventure, but are driven to stability and consistency. We long for something new and different, yet are profoundly creatures of habit. This seeming contradiction speaks to how God has wonderfully designed us. Created in God's likeness we have within our spiritual DNA both the desire and the ability to create. Reflecting the unchangeable nature of God's character we gravitate towards consistency. These two contrasting qualities have the capacity to provide strength as we walk in healthy relationship with Christ and endeavor to maintain the personal discipline Scripture requires. Satan, recognizing the potential tension between these two characteristics, attempts to utilize this tension to bring confusion and compromise into our journey. He endeavors to stifle our creativity or leverage it to draw us away from God. He will try to convince us that consistency offers no enjoyment and remind us of our inevitable missteps as we pursue the consistent life.

The refreshing news is that God will faithfully reveal His presence and power in both the creative and the consistent aspects of our life. God's plan for each of us reinforces His creative nature that is within each of us, the Holy Spirit brings a wonderful sense of self-control into the situation, and the grace of God is a consistent covering when we fall short in creativity or consistency.

The heat index is currently 105 degrees, I look forward to a change in the weather pattern... I wish Summer could last forever!

You've Got To Grow No Matter How Tall Your Father Is

2009-10-06T16:15:00.000-07:00

In my personal reading this morning there was a thought that spoke volumes to me: "Nothing in your past guarantees that you will continue growing toward your potential in the future--not positions attained degrees earned, experience gained, awards received or fortunes acquired." It echoes the old Irish proverb, "You've got to do your own growing no matter how tall your grandfather is." It is all too easy for us to allow our past victories or failures to define us, and to live in past pain or former glory. No matter where we come from in our journey, where we go from here is our choice.

Moving forward requires a willingness to grow and an acceptance of change. Most people fight against change, especially when it affects them personally. Tolstoy said, "Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself." The ironic thing is, change is inevitable. Everyone has to deal with change, yet the growth change offers is optional. You can chose to grow through life's changes or you can fight it. If we are unwilling to change or grow we will never reach our full potential.

My prayer for you is that God will place within you a willingness to grow and change in whatever ways necessary to reach your full potential in Christ... because He has great things in store for you.

"For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height -- to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God."
Ephesians 3:14-19

The Just Shall Live...

2009-09-21T13:46:00.000-07:00

It is no great secret that I am a sports fan, and this is my favorite time of year in sports. Major League baseball is rapidly approaching the playoffs, college football is in full swing, and Sunday afternoons are filled with NFL highlights... life if good. Yesterday afternoon, as I watched the Chicago Bears make a great comeback against the defending Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers, I found myself pondering why some team overcome challenge and adversity while others start strong only to fade as they approach the finish.

For each of us the landscape of life is filled with the all too painful reminders of those whom we appreciated and even admired who eventually stumbled short of the finish line. There are sports heroes who have admitted cheating, government servants who have fallen from grace, and businessmen who have bilked retirees out of their life savings; each attempting to circumvent the process to insure personal victory. As painful as these personal failures are none seems to cut so deep as when one of our spiritual role models falters in the faith and compromises their testimony. We are reminded of the saddest of all scripture when it is said of Samson, "but he did not know the Lord had left him."

What causes us to falter in the race? Hebrews 11 declares that without faith it is impossible to please God, and lists a biblical hall of fame; those who understand the formula for finishing strong. The answer is found in the realization that "every good and perfect gift comes from the Father of heavenly lights." We find great comfort in the realization that it is not us, rather it is God in us that brings strength and success. The poison the enemy regularly uses to sidetrack godly people is pride. Satan loves to use the miraculous provision of God, that which should be an anchor for our faith, as the birthplace of pride. We can quickly lose sight of the hand of God in our life and begin to believe that the success we experience is a result of our wisdom, abilities, and efforts.

Let me offer this thought: If we continually live our life in such a way that God has to come through, it keeps our focus on Him. If we chose simply to function at the level of our resource and ability it become all too easy for the focus to be on us. The truth is we serve a God of the impossible. As I reflect on our ongoing facilities expansion, and ponder the next steps we must take as a church, I must confess to you that it seems like a mountain compared to our earthly resources.... it is a good thing that God offers us mountain moving faith :)

Living Without Regret

2009-09-17T04:57:00.000-07:00

I am fascinated by flight. I have logged hours in experimental airplanes, private planes, a sea plane, and countless commercial jets. Still, I always look forward to each new flight. Flying allows you to rise above the storms of the day, passing through the clouds to a beautiful sunny sky. The view from the cockpit gives a bird ’ s eye view of the incredible landscape that God has created. The time spent in the air is but a fraction of what the trip would require if we were resigned to travel by land.

Kent Couch, a 47-year old gas station owner from Bend, Oregon shares my love of flight. Quite possibly, he shares this love a bit too much! -- Last weekend, Kent Couch settled down in his lawn chair with some snacks - and a parachute. Attached to his lawn chair were 105 large helium balloons. Destination: Idaho. Nearly nine hours later, Kent came back to earth in a farmer's field near Union, Oregon; short of Idaho but about 193 miles from home. Couch is the latest American to emulate Larry Walters - who in 1982 rose three miles above Los Angeles in a lawn chair lifted by balloons. Walters had surprised an airline pilot, who radioed the control tower that he had just passed a guy in a lawn chair. Walters paid a $1,500 penalty for violating air traffic rules

All too often we are challenged with the reality that, if we had the opportunity to relive a moment or rethink a decision we would choose a markedly different course. Life is filled with many “ it seemed like a good idea ” moments and “ what was I thinking ” evaluations. The good news is that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion. When I think of a man blocking the flight plan of Los Angeles International airport in a lawn chair it makes me chuckle, yet if I were to begin the list of my decisions that lacked a little wisdom I expect it would be frighteningly long. How do we walk in wisdom in order to avoid regret? Here are five quick thoughts:

Lean on God ’ s Understanding – We are reminded that if we trust in God even when it seemingly does not make sense to us, that He will always keep us on the right path. While God ’ s ways are often not like our ways, they are always the best way.

Listen to Godly Counsel – Scripture challenges us with the truth that there is wisdom in much counsel. I am grateful for those who have walked this path before me who are willing to warn me off the pitfalls and share with me the joys I will find along the journey.

Learn For the Past – It is true that we will inevitably make some poor choices. There is amazing comfort in the truth that all things work together for good for those that love God… God will use those failures to refine our faith and develop our character if we give them to Him.

Look to the Future – Many times we find our regrettable decisions are a direct result of impatience. Be confident that God has joy and blessing for you in each step of the journey.

Live In The Present – We learn from our past and have faith for our future, but today is our focus.

Let the wisdom of God be the guiding force in your activities and attitudes this week. Let each situation offer a learning opportunity and each encounter provide a growth moment. Finally, if you find yourself with some free time and you notice your lawn chair….. just walk away :)

The One With Experience Is Never At The Mercy Of The One With Theory

2009-07-29T02:35:00.000-07:00

This morning I awoke to an absolutely flawless midsummer day in Chicago. My family and I are enjoying a few days away together, and my day began with devotions on the balcony in the midst of a beautiful sunrise. As I pondered the promises of God I had just read in scripture, the strong sense to call a missionary friend that serves a half a world away gripped me. A quick calculation of time zones convinced me that it was not too late to call, so I searched for the number and rang his phone.

God's Word reminds us that "The righteous shall live by faith." If this biblical principle is true (which I am completely convinced it is) then our missionaries are profoundly righteous. The thought of leaving family and familiar for the sole purpose of sharing the reality of Christ to a foreign culture is amazing. When one adds to the equation that the missionary makes this journey based on the faith that friends will be led by God to financially partner with them makes this proposition all the more remarkable. The reality that so many of our missionaries are in politically volatile environments with our economy presently in a tumultuous state magnifies the faith journey.

I am convinced the perpetual position of faith that our missionaries place themselves in is the fuel for the miraculous, and is the major factor in why they see God "show up" on a much more regular basis than the typical Christ follower.

My morning phone call from Chicago found a missionary who was at that moment on another phone line talking with a mutual friend. He was soliciting prayer, asking the friend to pray for God to send someone his way to help with a crisis need. My friend has experienced this scenario countless times, yet was still amazed at the profound timeliness of God.... and God's people when we are obedient.

There are some that would discount scenarios such as this as mere coincidence, as would I if they were a rare occurrence. Yet, for those who place themselves squarely in the middle of a faith journey, dependent upon God's provision through "supernatural coincidence" the reality of God's response to faith is clear. The experience of God making the impossible possible and consistently meeting the need through truly remarkable means offers up a faith building reminder that God is in the midst of our situations and always has our answer if we simply look to Him.

The life that God has called each us to is one of wonderful adventure, divine opportunity, and miracle moments if we simply choose to respond to His leading and place ourselves in a position of faith. Far too often we are content living a life where we merely theorize about faith, debating the depths of God's involvement and privately wondering if the stories are true. Be encouraged today, God is still in the miracle working business. If you need further proof, pick up the phone or send an email to one of our missionaries.... just don't be surprised when God places you right in the middle of their miracle!

Are Your Dreams Bigger Than Your Memories?!?!?

2009-07-25T15:08:00.000-07:00

Let me ask you a profoundly personal, yet absolutely pivotal question: Are your dreams bigger than your memories? Do you find greater joy in reflecting on where you have been or in pondering the path ahead? Is the focus of your conversations the experiences of yesterday or the opportunities of tomorrow?

Allow me to make an honest confession. I have reluctantly accepted the reality that I am no longer a young man: my life have has transitioned from dunking basketballs to dunking doughnuts, I no longer notice the amount of gray in my hair. At this point in life I am just happy that I have yet to reach the age where my waistband starts to creep ever higher!!

As I fully embrace the middle years of life, it seems only natural to look back on where I've been. When it comes to the reminiscent moments I am a softy. I will make time to visit old homesteads and can talk about the days gone by with the best of them. I am convinced there is tremendous value in recognizing the foundational moments of life and am confident that one is well served by honoring the defining moments in their journey. The list of characters who have played a role in the drama that is my life are long, and a debt of gratitude is due to each. I am truly thankful for the many milestones and countless memories in my life.

That being said, I am still convinced that my greatest days lie ahead. Equipped with the wealth of knowledge that life to this point has brought, and confident of God's promises, the dream I have for the days to come is significant. God's Word tells me that I am the salt of the earth... I want my seasoning to have an impact! The Apostle Paul challenges us in Philippians 3 to forget what is behind and strain toward what is ahead, pressing on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus. The true value of that which lies behind will only be realized as we remain faithful to the path that God has marked out for us. This truth motivates us to run with endurance the race that is set before us.

As the movie Shawshank Redemption draws to a close, Morgan Freeman's character, "Red" reminds us of the undeniable truth that "You've gotta get busy living, or get busy dying." Jesus declared the reason he came was to provide each of us with the opportunity to live life to it's full, and Ephesians encourages us to make the most of every opportunity.

So, join me as we together enjoy those moments that provide opportunity for reflection and celebrate the loves and laughs of yesterday. Let's enjoy the smiles our memories bring... and building on the strengths of our yesterdays let's confidently, expectantly look to tommorow, trusting God for greater victories and a greater story.

"When your memories exceed your dreams the end is near."
Andy Stanley

Tilting at Windmills

2009-03-04T07:30:00.000-08:00

He was a man on honor, committed to defending his homeland and preserving his good name. He was quick to come to the aid of any in distress, offer assistance to all who were in need. Chivalry should have been his hallmark.... and would have been if not for those windmills!

A quick look at the current Dow Jones Index and even the most casual glance at today's headlines reveal a troublesome scenario. The greatest concern is not the global economic instability or a dwindling 401k, history is replete with seasons of financial downturns and market volatility. There may be some argument on the timeline for an economic turnaround, but the consensus is that the market will recover and the economy will once again expand. In fact, our greatest danger has very little to do with dollars and cents, but much to do with dollars and SENSE.

Ecclesiastes 7:12 reminds us that "Wisdom is a shelter" and Proverbs 24 declares that "by wisdom a house is built." Jesus challenged us with the truth that "whoever hears these sayings of mine and does them, I will liken him to the wise man who builds his house upon the rock: and the rains descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house but it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock." Our current season of uncertainty has many, unfortunately including many in leadership, searching for an easy answer to turn back the floods and calm the winds. The inevitable result is that in fear and/or confusion we begin to fight unnecessary battles and in the end are doing nothing more that "tilting at windmills." Their motivation is much like that of the beloved literary character Don Quixote, admirable yet horribly misguided. The solutions offered are little more than building a house on shifting sand.

So, what is the answer? A quick review of Cervantes' story of the man from LaMancha reminds us that perspective is a valuable tool. With our larger view we understand that Quixote's giants are mere windmills and the mythical mambrinos helmet is nothing more than a barber's washbowl. Moreover, a review of the promises of God reminds us that the way to weather a stormy season is to align ourselves with biblical truth.

Time will reveal that the answers for our current situation will have very little to with what is done in the White House and will fail to find the solution amidst all of talk radio. It will have everything to do with the level to which we commit ourselves to the principles of Scripture, understanding that God sees those "windmill giants" from his Heavenly perspective and He is not the slightest bit scared!

It Was A Dark & Foggy Night.....

2008-12-30T20:07:00.000-08:00

“If I had known the fog was this bad I would have chosen not to make the trip.” I uttered those words in frustration as I drove through a blinding fog and gale force winds on the journey home from a family gathering. Our pathway was completely obscured at times during the trip because of the dense fog. The adverse conditions made the drive challenging for me, and at times frightening for my family. Fortunately I was able to keep our vehicle in the center of the roadway for the duration of our journey, yet the inability to see the path ahead created such stress that I could not wait for the torturous travel to end.

In the midst of the fog I found myself pondering, how often do we find ourselves travelling through life, frustrated and anxious because of a foggy path? We can easily position ourselves in the middle of God’s will, yet are unable to enjoy the blessings around us because we don’t have clarity regarding the next step. One of the greatest needs of an individual or an organization is clarity.

Clarity of vision and process is invaluable if we are to accomplish our goals, maintain a healthy direction, or keep a proper perspective. A foggy path on an individual level creates a growing sense of uncertainty, but a lack of clear direction on a corporate level will inevitably lead to growing dysfunction and destroy unity. The ability to see the path ahead has to be a priority.
I have discovered that the key factor in providing clarity on a corporate level for the church I am called to pastor or the family that I am responsible to lead is directly affected by the sense of direction I have personally. At the risk of over simplifying, I have to be comfortable in my direction before I can guide others. We live in an increasingly foggy world. Principles and values that were clear just a few years ago are now cluttered and cloudy. So, how do see past the fog?

There is truly no one right answer. However, God has given us several invaluable tools to help us navigate during the fog of life that we will at times encounter. At times the appropriate response is patience, giving time for the clutter to clear. Other situations will require us to step forward in faith, trusting that the Holy Spirit will guide us through the murky moments. Invariably we will discover if we keep our focus on a very clear God, the gifts and fruit of the Spirit will enable us to move forward in the thickest fog.

As my family and I made our way through the mist on traverse through the fog, our challenging journey would have been much more difficult had it not been for clear road markers and strategically positioned reflectors along this otherwise desolate country road. The markings kept us centered and offered direction as made our way home.

We can be confident that God will, through the ministry of the Holy Spirit provide us the road markers and reflectors we need to stay in the center of the path and to make it safely home.

Lessons Learned In The History of Economic Crisis

2008-12-22T16:13:00.000-08:00

There was a chill in the air on that dreary morning of March 4, 1933. The weather was, in so many ways, a reflection of the state of our nation at the time. A wave of economic difficulty that started with the 1929 stock market crash, known notoriously as “Black Tuesday,” provided a downward spiral that saw our proud nation leave the prosperity of the 1920’s far behind. As our country anticipated the inauguration of its 32nd president, we found ourselves at the lowest point of the Great Depression. Over 13,000,000 were unemployed, few banks remained, and little hope of economic revitalization could be seen.

It was this backdrop that inspired President Roosevelt to offer a depressed nation the following words:

“ I AM certain that my fellow Americans expect that on my induction into the Presidency I will address them with a candor and a decision which the present situation of our Nation impels. This is preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing conditions in our country today. This great Nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper. So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself”

Roosevelt’s inaugural words have endured far beyond the economic challenges of the great depression. They echo the timeless truth from God’s Word written centuries prior by the prophet Isaiah, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”

In the coming days our nation will witness the inauguration of our 44th president, and once again we find ourselves in a period of economic challenge and uncertainty. While it is certainly true that our current financial crisis is nowhere near the severity of that which our nation faced during the great depression, the pressures and anxiety are very real. A quick look at a dwindling 401K or the very real possibility of corporate “downsizing” bring a very natural response of fear. It is in this context that the words of FDR, and more important the truth of scripture ring true: do not be afraid, because there is nothing to fear.

Without proper context these can seem like mere words. And while the beginning of President Roosevelt’s inaugural address is that which is most quoted, it is the end of his speech that offers the lens through which a clear direction can be clearly seen:

In this dedication of a Nation we humbly ask the blessing of God. May He protect each and every one of us. May He guide me in the days to come.

We can be confident that as we seek the wisdom and blessing of God that He will both guide us and provide for us. History is replete with evidences of God’s continual hand upon those who place their trust in Him. Embracing the very real truth that God both keeps His promises and has promised that, as we trust in Him, He will meet our needs is the perfect prescription for the stress our current economy brings.

For most of us the Great Depression is something we know of only through history books and stories shared by loved ones many years our senior. The truth remains that our nation has endured far greater pain before, and God’s people have walked through much larger difficulties in the past. Yet the words of Isaiah have always been true….. and continue to be true today!

Many economists now predict that our economy should begin to improve during the 2nd quarter of 2009. Some would offer that the journey back to financial strength will require much more time. A few would have us believe that we can never recover. For the child of God there is the confidence that, regardless of the economists prediction, we can stand firm in the timeless truth of God’s enduring promises. We truly have nothing to fear.

From the Inn Keepers Perspective

2008-12-10T10:00:00.000-08:00

The story of Jesus' birth fascinates me. If you take the time to get beyond the familiar and truly consider the wonder of this significant moment in history there are so many truly remarkable aspects to God becoming man.

I'd love the opportunity to get beyond the typical church program images and see the Bethlehem miracle through the eyes of those who witnessed it first hand. While we don't have an "official eyewitness report," a little investigation and a little imagination gives us a wonderful window into the eternity changing drama of the babe born in a manger. Let's take a look at the story the inn keeper would share:

Bethlehem was in so many ways the typical small town. We had our share of people born, but all too often they would move away from our small community in search of better jobs and a better life. Those of us who remained in Bethlehem would occasionally comment that if everyone who was from here had stayed we could compete with some of the larger cities in Judea. We honestly didn't realize how true that statement was until a decree was issued in Rome that all of Judea was to return to their city of origin for a "tax census." Our little town was quickly overwhelmed with family, friends, and former neighbors arriving in anticipation of "counting day."

My family and I manage Bethlehem's one Inn. I love working in hospitality and take great pride in our inn. It might not be all that one would find in the larger inns in Jerusalem, but it has been a part of my family for several generations, and offers exceptional lodging for our small town. I typically look forward to serving our guests. This particular time was, unfortunately, not typical. The Roman contingent arrived early in preparation of the census and overwhelmed our quaint little inn. They were arrogant and demanding, constantly complaining about their assignment in Bethlehem, commenting that they wanted to finish quickly and return to the city.

Joseph & Mary arrived at the inn late in the day. So many of the travelers were irritable from their journey and frustrated with the lack of accommodations in Bethlehem, but this young couple from Nazareth were gracious in their request for lodging, in spite of the fact that Mary was very much with child. They had a grace about them that made it easy for me to make the extra effort to assure they had a place to rest. The inn was filled beyond capacity with unruly Romans, but the stable was available and at least it would provide some shelter and a semisoft straw bed.

I helped the young Nazarenes get settled and returned to the inn to respond to any remaining requests, or demands from the Romans before settling down for a much deserved rest. It was not long before news came that the mother to be was about to become the mother and child. I sent my wife to offer assistance in the stable while I finished up with our other guests. By the time I arrived beside the manger the baby was already there, wrapped in swaddling clothes and sleeping peacefully in the feed trough.

News of the birth spread quickly, even the shepherds of the temple flock came to see the baby! The shepherds told of an angelic host who told them the good news of the child. As the shepherds told the story, Joseph began to wipe away tears. He then told us of his conversation with a messenger from Heaven, confirming the Shepherd's story.

I must confess it was initially difficult to believe that the Son of God could be born in my stable. Surely the coming of the messiah would be more dramatic, accompanied by a worldwide proclamation. Why would God choose to have his Son born in a simple stable in a small town sharing the news with commoners? The more I pondered the more I realized that God chose this time and place for the arrival of the Messiah to share the reality that His love includes all of us. An uncommon birth in a common place to connect with even the most common of people. The simplicity of it all spoke of the magnitude of God's wisdom, and filled me with a sense of value, knowing that God thought enough of me to include me in His plan.

Our little stable was transformed that night, through the birth of a baby, named Jesus. The presence of God, the worship of the shepherds, and the hope that the Messiah brought offered common folks like us a moment with the King.

In fact, the Bethlehem miracle is evidence to us all of God's great love and the lengths to which our Saviour will go to connect with us. Jesus birth reminds us of the great privilege that is ours to each day have a moment with the King!

May the miracle of Christmas mark your days this Advent season!

Christmas Lights

2008-12-09T09:04:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas lights~

The New & Improved 10 Things I Think I Think!

2008-10-18T18:00:00.000-07:00

Technology has made our world much closer. Sending text messages on my Iphone in Ecuador while watching major league baseball on ESPN as I am uploading my latest blog entry on my Macbook, how cool is that?
The sound of people genuinely seeking the face of God is the same around the world. God loves that sound.... and so do I.
Smoothie King comes a very close second to Jamba Juice. Jamba Juice will be available in Heaven.
The creativity of God is never more clearly seen than at this time of year. It is truly amazing how God paints the Autumn landscape in such wonderfully vivid colors.
Walmart should not be allowed to put out Christmas displays until they make Christmas M&M's available.
The current political campaign season reflects the great need for a return to common courtesy and mutual respect. The anger in the political commentary is tragic. Come on people, we can have a difference of opinion while maintaining our objectivity. I will still like you even in you vote for _____________ and the democratic/republican party is not demon possessed!
The push to free our country from dependence on oil has far more reaching consequences than most people realize... Golf balls are 90% petroleum based. OPEC must not be allowed to limit production, we must protect Titleist at all costs!
The church is coming into an exciting period. The uncertainty in our economy has people looking for answers that will stand the test of time, and only one answer truly endures... Jesus.
Legislation is desperately needed to limit the lifespan of musical greeting cards. a seemingly harmless song that seems cute the first time the card is opened has the potential to inspire violence when heard for the forty-seventh time. Yes, I do speak from experience.
Life affords me the opportunity to play numerous roles, but my favorite role is Dad. There is no happier time for me than the moments spend with my family and the incredible sense of fulfillment that comes from just one hug!

A View From the Ecuadorian Mountain Tops

2008-10-11T15:30:00.000-07:00

A quick log at the clock revealed that it was unbelievably early. Way too early to be awake. A pounding headache and clogged sinuses caused my weary body to think otherwise, so there I was thinking how much easier it would be if I were facing sickness at home in my own bed rather than in a hotel in Southern Ecuadorian city of Guayaquil. I pondered whether or not I could be ready for the full day ahead, wondering if I would have the energy to accomplish all that was on the agenda. To be perfectly honest, I was feeling a little (well, maybe a lot) sorry for myself.

The realization came that this was not simply a business trip or a vacation excursion. My mission here in Ecuador is specific, to meet with the missionary and develop our strategy for a major advancement of Christ's Kingdom. I was reminded that Kingdom warfare often involves struggle and I should not be surprised that the enemy was attempting to discourage me be throwing sickness at me. So, if the enemy was going to have me awake at 2 AM, I was determined to "make the most of every opportunity." A time of prayer and worship brought a sense of peace to both my spirit and body and, understandably, I slept well the rest of the night!

God's Word is true when it declares that all things work together for God for those who love God and are called according to His purpose. Never forget that Satan is a defeated foe!

The weather has turned markedly cooler as the sun sets over Quito. We have just finished a day of touring the Ecuadorian capital, looking at potential lodging and projects for our 2009 missions trips. Our prayerful expectation is that "Impact Ecuador '09" will truly impact this amazing South American country. Please join with us in prayer for this missions initiative.... and let God impress upon your heart to be a part of this great outreach to Ecuador in '09. I look forward to seeing you in Quito!

Embacing The Energy of Friendship

2008-08-28T08:56:00.000-07:00

I am currently spending the week at a retreat center in Northern Minnesota, privileged to be the evening speaker for the Minnesota Special Touch Getaway. Let me offer you a window into my week... and a powerful observation available if you you are willing to take the time for a deeper look.

Even the most casual glance at the group assembled at Lake Geneva Christian Center this week would reveal that it is anything but typical. If one is not careful all that will be seen is the disproportionately large number of wheelchairs and walkers. A little closer observation reveals that in addition to the physical difficulties, a significant number of participants at this getaway face the daily challenge of a wide variety of special needs. It would be easy to stop there, and in so doing come to an incomplete conclusion. Echoing the words of the Apostle Paul, "I pray that the eyes of your heart may be opened..." Come with me, let's take a closer look:

Jason and David are engaged in deep conversation, sharing with one another the wonders of God. The conversation is slow, due in large part to Jason's unstable hand as he points to letters on a board to spell each word of his thought. Yet, David is patient, focused on hearing what his friend has to say. He has positioned his wheelchair close to Jason, assuring that he clearly sees each word Jason painstakingly spells out. Sara is having a particularly difficult day. She is quickly offered a hug from Tammy, which leads to a large group hug and a wealth of smiles. A food tray is dropped in the dining hall, and amazingly there is no laughter which is typical of most mishaps at a camp cafeteria, instead individuals quickly rush to give aid.

Friends make their way from one activity to the next hand in hand, each one choosing not to focus on their own life challenges, encouraged by the common bond they share. Instead they find mutual acceptance, mutual support, and mutual strength from one another.

What we discover is a very real picture of God's intent when He declared, "bear one anothers burdens." We witness the power of "encourage one another and build each other up." We realize the impact of "accept one another." A true understanding of true friendship is revealed.

We live in our culture where it is generally unacceptable to reveal our weaknesses. We go to extraordinary lengths to masks our flaws and in so doing create a handicap in one of the key areas of life - relationships.

This amazing group gathered in northern Minnesota this week offers a great lesson to us in overcoming our friendship handicap, in conquering our relationship disabilities. The example they provide in unconditional acceptance and mutual support provides a clear picture of how life should be, could be, if we simply push past our struggles to true friendship.

The picture provided by this amazing group offers a compelling question: what would life be like if we all chose to follow their example and embrace the biblical directives regarding friendship. I think we should give it a try, don't you? :)

Beyond All Limits

2008-08-26T09:35:00.000-07:00

A late night of bingo and bonfires made getting up this morning a challenge. The annoying beep of a cheap alarm clock offered a not so gentle reminder that the day was starting, and if I did not get out of bed it would start without me. My mind quickly cycled through a litany of excuses for staying in bed, and I must admit a few of them sounded pretty good... at least to me.

After a quick shower and a few cookies (the breakfast of champions), I was out the door just in time to see the parade of wheelchairs and walkers pass by. It was time for morning recreation at the Minnesota Special Touch Getaway. This morning's activities included an obstacle course and paintball art. I have been privileged to be a part of numerous getaways with Special Touch, but never cease to be amazed at the truly remarkable ministry.

I could not help but be filled with a sense of wonder as I watched the various guests make their way through the obstacle course constructed out of bales of straw and mattresses. The focus this morning was not on their disability, it was on maximizing their ability. The response of one Sam, one of the guests at the getaway perfectly illustrated the morning. Sam was initially tentative as he began to navigate the obstacle course. He asked for assistance a few times and thought of quitting part way through, but with a little encouragement he finished the course. His broad smile said it all as he raised his arms and exclaimed, "I did it." No Olympian in Beijing had a greater sense of accomplishment than what we witnessed in Sam today. Sam set his own world record this morning. What he initially thought was impossible became a possibility, an insurmountable obstacle was conquered, and a limitation became a liberty.

It makes me ponder, what impossibilities in my life can become possibilities if I simply listen to the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, welcome the help of those around me, and press forward in spite of the anxieties along the way. Scripture is indeed correct when it declares, "I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me.

MERE WORDS

2008-08-10T21:01:00.000-07:00

The national anthem is my musical backdrop as I write this post. Michael Phelps and the American men stand on the podium at the National Aquatic Center in Beijing as their flag is raised celebrating a world record breaking swim in the 400 meter relay.

Earlier today, French team captain Alain Bernard declared that there was no doubt that his team from France would defeat the Americans. He promised a clear cut victory, saying "we will smash the Americans." Bernard now stands beside Phelps on the podium.... although his place is a little lower as the silver medalist.

Shortly after the world record setting swim, Michael Phelps was asked about Bernard's comments. His response, "We determined that we would not respond with words, we would rather offer our answer to Bernard's statement with a statement of our own in the pool.

Proverbs 17 declares, "A man of knowledge uses words with restraint,and a man of under-standing is even-tempered. Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.

As I ponder these thoughts there is much I could say.... then again, it is probably best if I keep silent (isn't that wise!)

:)

MYSTERY SOLVED!

2008-08-05T18:20:00.000-07:00

I love a good mystery. I grew up on the Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew, and read every Encyclopedia brown book that has been printed. We live in a world that is full of mystery. For example, there is an elite group of men who hold what some would consider lofty positions who make it a point never to travel together because of security reasons. They always make separate arrangements, even if they are going to the same place. If disaster would strike their vehicle or aircraft, at least the others would be alive to carry on their mission, and to protect their secret.

Who are these men and what secret are they keeping? They are the company executives and the chief chemist of a company whose name is known around the world: Coca Cola. What they are protecting is the secret formula for the world’s most popular soft drink. Somewhere in a bank vault in Atlanta, Georgia is a slip of paper with eighteen mostly common ingredients that constitute the famous soda.

Elsewhere, in a heavily armored vault in Lexington, Kentucky is another closely guarded secret: the colonel’s eleven herbs and spices which make up the batter for Kentucky fried chicken, to ensure that vendors don’t know the formula for this celebrated mixture, the secret blend is mixed in two different locations and then combined at a third location with the aid of a sophisticated computer system.

While many are working rather diligently at keeping their secrets, God chooses to reveal His great mysteries to us:

“My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:2&3

You have a wonderful place to go when you need wisdom and knowledge. You can go to Jesus Christ! Remember that you have been made a co-heir with Christ:“Now if we are children, then we are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory” Romans 8:17.

We find great comfort in the truth that all believers can receive God’s wisdom: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5. God does not want His will and His wisdom to be inaccessible secrets, but wants to share all that He has with us through Jesus Christ. Most of all, God desires to share His wisdom with us so that we can know Him in a deep and intimate way.

“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence, having made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself, 10that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth--in Him.” Ephesians 1:7-10

It is no mystery that God loves us! He has also made known His plan for us as a church. He desires to use us to reveal His wonderful mysteries to the people within our sphere of influence, and ultimately our entire world. Isn’t it great when a mystery is solved!

Staring At The Gas Station Marquis I began to think...

2008-07-31T14:30:00.000-07:00

A busy day and evening meetings meant getting home late yesterday. As I pulled out of the church parking lot anxious to finally get home a startling discovery caught my attention, causing me to divert from intended destination. My discovery.... a gas station marquis that displayed a 36 cent rise in gasoline from that morning. My stop... an adjacent gas station who had yet to change their price.

Watching the ever changing prices at our local service stations has quickly become a new national pastime. My daily commute now includes monitoring the several convenience store signs indicating what the going rate is for fuel. As I have watched the pricing trends I have discovered that one gas station in my route is the initiator of the price increases, maintaining their price increase if the other stations follow, retreating if the competition does not join them at the higher price. Last night, this lead station attempted a 36 cent price increase. I was releaved this morning to discover that none of the other stations had followed, causing the rogue gas station to return to the going rate.

While not discounting the myriad of factors that impact the price you and I pay at the pump, watching the pricing patterns in my community has led me to the conclusion that opportunism and greed play a huge role in the meteoric rise of fuel. We've come a long way from those "Andy Griffith" days, when Goober would wash your windshield and offer to check your oil while filling your tank. The service station has been replaced by the convenience store, the friendly gas station attendant has become a computerized gas pump and store clerk behind bullet-proof glass. The price on the pump no longer reflects a fair price for a product, it instead is an attempt to extract the most money possible out of your wallet or bank account.

Which brings me to the heart of the matter. I am convinced that yesterday's attempt by this convenience store owner to raise his gasoline price by 36 cents is a pointed illustration of a character collapse in current culture. Concern for our fellow man (or driver, as the case may be) somehow has been lost in the relentless pursuit of higher profits. All too often the question of what is right is avoided, and replaced by what is tolerable. The answer for the oil crisis in America will not be found in hybrids, biofuels, or drilling in the wilderness of the Alaskan wildlife refuge. Be assured that I am fine with all of those options.... I simply state that a return to the Biblical principle that "honest scales are the Lord's delight" and "be kind and compassionate toward one another" is a critical factor.

Greater character will have greater impact than greater crude oil. Just a thought :)

10 Things I Think I Think!

2008-07-29T04:18:00.000-07:00

The people at Panera coat their cinnamon crunch bagel with a secret, yet highly addictive glaze, that should be outlawed. If you have yet to have one of these bagels be forewarned!
Comparing pricing plans from cellphone providers is particularly painful...why does it have to be so difficult?
This could be the year for my lovable losers, the Cubbies to go all the way. I don't know if my heart can take the drama. Why is it never easy with these guys????
Intercessory prayer and fasting is a lost art in contemporary Christianity. Seeking the face of God is the key to the church reaching our potential in Christ.
The Brett Favre story has been so overplayed!
The presidential election this fall will most likely be painful to watch, irregardless of your political preference, the onslaught of campaign comercials and endless media rhetoric is sure to be overwhelming.
The current questionable economy, political uneasiness, and general cultural malaise offers the church a unique, yet short term window to have significant influence if we simply choose to be relevant and active. Christ is the answer that fills the void. The key is to help people get beyond the ignorance and misconceptions of God and His church.
I need to go to Ruth's Chris before there summer special is over... their steak is amazing!
You can not overestimate the power of a hug, or the love of a dog!
You have amazing potential.