Daily Caffeination 01/31/07

Like Sheep

All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way.—Isaiah 53:6

Jesus said, “My sheep hear My voice . . . ” (John 10:27). Of all the animals Jesus could have compared us to, He chose sheep. He didn’t say, “My dolphins hear My voice,” or “My chimpanzees hear My voice.” He said, “My sheep hear My voice.”

You may be wondering, but aren’t sheep really stupid animals? Yes, they are. They are so dense, in fact, that if one sheep walks off a cliff and falls to its death, others will follow.

Unfortunately, there are many characteristics that we humans share with sheep. One of them is that we have a tendency to go astray, to follow the crowd—especially when we are young.

But the problem is that like sheep, we can do what everyone else does and end up doing the wrong thing. Proverbs 14:12 says, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” How we need people today to stand up for what is right and not just follow the crowd.

Daniel 3 tells the story of three Hebrew teenagers—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego—who were in positions of influence in the kingdom of Babylon. Because they would not bow down to the image of King Nebuchadnezzar, they were thrown into a fiery furnace. But God honored their courage and commitment to Him by preserving their lives. How we need people like them today.

Let’s not be like sheep that follow the crowd to their own destruction. Let’s stay on the narrow way that leads to life. If we do, we will look back and thank God. We will look back and realize that we missed nothing, but instead gained eternal life.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

10k Training Day #7

Again, my training update to let you know my progress.

This morning, I did my normal Tuesday routine of chest & back lifting and I did some abs(for my six pack) as well.

Well tonight, I went back to the Y with a goal of running the treadmill for 1 hour and 4.5 miles. Instead, I went above that goal, I went 1 hour 5 minutes and 5 miles. YEAH!!! This is a awesome feeling, I have 6.2 miles or 10k in sight, maybe next Tuesday night.

Another progress which is a side benefit. I have been hovering with my weight around 260+lbs, well tonight I weighed myself and I am down to 257.3lbs. My goal by the 10k which is March 31st is to be down to about 245lbs. We will see if I can accomplish this goal as well. In case you haven't figured it out yet, I am a very determined person. :-)

2 New Books Plus 1

Yesterday, I bought two new books that I am very excited about reading. I bought The Big Idea by Dave Ferguson (focus the message, multiply the impact) and Listening to the Beliefs of Emerging Churches Five Perspectives with Karen Ward, Doug Pagitt, Dan Kimball, John Burke and Mark Driscoll. I am looking forward to diving into both of these books, but first...

I need to finish reading, Your Money Counts by Howard Dayton. I am currently reading Your Money Counts for a new home group study we are doing with Crown Financial Ministries that we just started this past Sunday night. This book is a requirement for the course, otherwise I would not have picked up the book. For the most part there are great principles and a good read, it is also practical if you follow the principles of the book. I would definitly encourage anyone who is going through financial trouble to take this course and/or read the book.

Once I am done reading Your Money Counts, I will dive into The Big Idea.

Reading is Fundamental! lol

2 plus 1

Daily Caffeination 01/30/07

A Call to Worship

...but they did not listen to him because of their discouragement and cruel bondage. - Exodus 6:9

It is very difficult to lead when those you are leading believe they have been mistreated and have lost all hope. Such was the case when God called Moses to bring the people of Israel out of Egypt. They had lived under many years of oppression and slavery. Yet God heard their cry. He sent someone to bring them out of slavery "so that they might worship God" (see Ex. 8:1). Interesting that God didn't say, "to serve Him." Above all else, God desires our worship. A person cannot enter into true worship of God while still in slavery and bondage.

In Proverbs, the writer tells us "hope deferred makes the heart sick" (Prov. 13:12a). There is a place in life where life becomes so discouraging and hopeless that we lose all hope, and it can actually make us sick. I have been at this place; it is a scary condition. It brings you to the edge of despair.

The people would not listen to Moses. Yet God did not deliver immediately. In fact, it would be many plagues later before ultimate deliverance would take place. Why does God withhold deliverance at times? It is in order to bring greater glory from the situation. It isn't because He doesn't care. It is because His plan for mankind is resting in these events. It is a finely tuned plan that involves many people and situations-all operating at the same time. It can seem cruel at times. But God knows that His children cannot worship Him if they are in bondage and lose all hope. He won't allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear, so He has a plan of deliverance for each of us. This plan is not always the kind of deliverance we might think is best. It sometimes has pain surrounding the deliverance. When a mother gives birth, that child is delivered into this world through much pain. But with that pain comes great joy on the other side. Every mother will say the pain was worth it because of the exceeding joy that child brought in the midst of the pain.

What are you in bondage to today? What keeps you from entering true worship? Work can keep us in bondage if we fail to enter into freedom in Christ during our workday. Today, ask God to show you the areas of bondage that you are living in so that you may worship Him.

(by Os Hillman, from Today God Is First, Destiny Image Publishers, Inc. Copyright 2000)

Daily Caffeination 01/29/07

How God Speaks

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”—John 10:27

Does God still speak to people today? Is He interested in what happens to us as individuals? Does He really have a master plan for our lives? Or are we merely victims of chance?

God is indeed interested in us as individuals. He does have a master plan for our lives, and He does want to speak to us. Jesus described Himself as our Good Shepherd. And as His sheep, we can hear His voice.

So how can we know when it is God speaking? First, we need to remember that God primarily speaks to us through His Word. He will never lead us to the contrary. We don’t have to go any further than the Bible to know the will of God for our lives.

God also speaks through circumstances that can include failure or even hardship. We don’t enjoy it when God speaks to us through tragedy and hardship, but as C. S. Lewis said, “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pain: it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world.”

Often, I have found that if something is the will of God, then it will be confirmed. There are times when I feel the Lord has been speaking to me through circumstances, such as an opportunity that has opened up. But I never make decisions by looking at circumstances alone.

Lastly, God speaks to us through His peace. Colossians 3:15 tells us, “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts . . . ” God is the author of peace, not of confusion.

Maybe we hear the voice of God more often than we think. The question is, are we really listening?

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

A Different Worship Experience

This morning at church Pastor Mike decided to do something different, something out of the ordinary, something that turned out to be extraordinary. Pastor Mike gave our worship team (atleast the musicians) the morning off from playing. We did praise and worship a cappella with Jonathan our lead singer leading us in six songs. It was absolutely incredible, the focus was not on the music, but more on the words we were singing to the Lord.

It was a risk that Pastor Mike took, but I felt that the fruit of this far outweighed the risk. It was raw and stripped down, it was simple and genuine...it was spiritual.

Pastor Mike then spoke a message titled "The Simple Truth" from John 4:5-26, he spoke about the Samairitan woman at the well having an encounter with Jesus. He shared how the woman had a complicated life with many traditional and "religious" misconceptions, until Jesus came into her life and simplified everything for He tore all those religious barriers and walls.

However, Pastor Mike's focus was John 4:19-24, where Jesus shared with the woman and to all of us what worship really is, for that matter what worship is not...Worship is not about the music. Worship is about kissing towards God in awe and reverence, to give Him honor. He also shared how we must come to Him in spirit (pneuma) a current of air; breath and in truth (alethia) sincereity and integrity of character.

Pastor Mike concluded with a final thought from verses 25-26, he mention faith is more than believing in something, faith is believing for something. What are we believing for? Many claim to believe in God, but do we believe for the things of God?

We concluded our service with an amazing altar time. Overall is was an incredible and a different worship experience, I simply love thse types of service even when it goes against the norm or the traditions or our weekly religious activities.

Thank you, Lord!

Daily Caffeination 01/28/07

Seeing the Works of God

Others went out on the sea in ships; they were merchants on the mighty waters. They saw the works of the Lord.... - Psalm 107:23-24a

When you were a child, perhaps you may have gone to the ocean for a vacation. I recall wading out until the waves began crashing on my knees. As long as I could stand firm, the waves were of no concern to me. However, as I moved farther and farther into the ocean, I had less control over my ability to stand. Sometimes the current was so strong it moved me down the beach, and I even lost my bearings at times. But I have never gone so far into the ocean that I was not able to control the situation.

Sometimes God takes us into such deep waters that we lose control of the situation, and we have no choice but to fully trust in His care for us. This is doing business in great waters. It is in these great waters that we see the works of God.

The Scriptures tell us that the disciples testified of what they saw and heard. It was the power behind the gospel, not the words themselves, which changed the world. The power wasn't seen until circumstances got to the point that there were no alternatives but God. Sometimes God has to take us into the deep water in order to give us the privilege to see His works.

Sometimes God takes us into the deep waters of life for an extended time. Joseph was taken into deep waters of adversity for 17 years. Rejection by his brothers, enslavement to Pharaoh, and imprisonment were the deep waters for Joseph. During those deep waters, he experienced dreams, a special anointing of his gifts to administrate, and great wisdom beyond his years. The deep water was preparation for a task that was so great he never could have imagined it. He was to see God's works more clearly than anyone in his generation. God had too much at stake for a 30-year-old to mess it up. So, God took Joseph through the deep waters of preparation to ensure that he would survive what he was about to face. Pride normally engulfs such young servants who have such access to power at such a young age.

If God chooses to take us into deep waters, it is for a reason. The greater the calling, the deeper the water. Trust in His knowledge that your deep waters are preparation to see the works of God in your life.

(by Os Hillman, from Today God Is First, Destiny Image Publishers, Inc. Copyright 2000)

Drinking A White Chocolate Mocha

I am in Starbucks in Richmond (Carytown) drinking a White Chocolate Mocha and doing some work for church. I am doing tickets for the church's Sweetheart Banquet (February 10th). Lora is here for her monthly meeting with her book club (fictional books). I figure I would come and do some work while she is having her book club meeting.

I am also listening to some music and downloading some songs from iTunes. Here is what I have just downloaded and listening to.

Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol
Unplayed Piano (Chris Lord-Alge Mix) by Damien Rice & Lisa Hannigan
Boston by Augustana
If Everyone Cared by Nickelback

Oh and here is a picture of me drinking my Starbucks.

Daily Caffeination 01/27/07

Horizontal Versus Vertical

Glancing this way and that and seeing no one, he killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand. - Exodus 2:12

Moses saw the pain of his people. He saw the bondage and the injustice. His heart was enraged, and he decided he would do something. He would take matters into his own hands. The result was murder. The motive was right, but the action was wrong. He went horizontal instead of vertical with God. Moses fled to the desert, where God prepared the man who would ultimately be the deliverer of a nation. But it took 40 years of preparation before God determined Moses was ready. He was a professional businessman-a sheepherder. It was during the mundane activity of work that God called on him to be a deliverer.

Moses was like a lot of enthusiastic Christian workplace believers who seek to solve a spiritual problem with a fleshly answer. The greatest danger to the Christian workplace believer is his greatest strength-his business acumen and expertise to get things done. This self-reliance can become our greatest weakness when it comes to moving in the spiritual realm. We're taught to be problem solvers. But, like Moses, if our enthusiasm and passion are not harnessed by the power of the Holy Spirit, we will fail miserably. Peter had to learn this lesson too. His enthusiasm got him into a lot of trouble. But God was patient, just as He is patient with each of us. Sometimes He must put us in the desert for a time in order to season us so that Christ is allowed to reign supreme in the process.

Before you act, pray and seek the mind of Christ until you know it is God behind the action. Check it out with others. You may save yourself a trip to the desert.

(by Os Hillman, from Today God Is First, Destiny Image Publishers, Inc. Copyright 2000)

10k Training Day #6 - From Yesterday 1/25/07

Yesterday, I continued my 10k training. In the morning, I ran the treadmill for 40 minutes and went 3.2 miles. I actually ran the first mile in 11 minutes. I went back in the afternoon and ran another 1.5 miles in 25 minutes on the treadmill. I was hurting yesterday afternoon after the morning run, so I did not do as much as I hoped I would do.

I feel like I am progressing in my training and meeting my goals. I have about two more months (March 31st) to be ready. Off from the training until Monday.

Daily Caffeination 01/26/07

Falling into Heaven

Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.—Acts 7:60

It’s a funny thing how we find sleep more and more appealing as we get older. When I was a kid, I hated to go to sleep. I still remember kindergarten, with the lukewarm milk in little cartons and having to lie down and take naps in the middle of the day. Sleep is usually the last thing kids want to do, but as we start getting older, the idea of sleep becomes more attractive.

Interestingly, the Bible describes death for a believer as sleep. And that is what it is. When a Christian dies, he or she immediately goes into the presence of the Lord. The Bible does not teach there is any delay at all between life here on Earth and life in heaven.

In Acts 7, we read that as Stephen was being stoned to death, he prayed for the forgiveness of his killers: “And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.’ Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, ‘Lord, do not charge them with this sin.’ And when he had said this, he fell asleep” (verses 59–60). Stephen’s statement indicates that he expected to enter the Lord’s presence as soon as he died.

The Bible promises in 2 Corinthians 5:8 that a believer will enter immediately into the presence of God following death: “We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.”

John Bunyan said, “Death is but a passage out of a prison into a palace.” You see, when death strikes a Christian down, he or she falls into heaven.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

Daily Caffeination 01/25/07

A Matter of Light and Darkness

And the judgment is based on this fact: God’s light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil.—John 3:19

I have always been amazed at how upset and completely irrational some people can become when the subject of Jesus Christ comes up. You can be talking about anything, even politics, and they will be relatively nice—even considerate. But just mention Jesus Christ, and you will see veins pop out of the foreheads of otherwise rational and considerate people.

We wonder, What’s with this? It is a matter of light and darkness. It’s a different dynamic altogether when you talk about the things of God. There is something about the name of Jesus that arrests a person’s attention. Why else would people use it for effect when they take the Lord’s name in vain? There is power in that name. Even the unbeliever, in a warped sense, recognizes that.

Jesus said, “All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed” (John 3:20). They hate the light for fear that it will expose their darkness.

The same is true of the Bible. When I travel, I will occasionally wind up in the middle seat, which I try very hard not to get. I am usually seated between two big guys who spill over their seats a little. As we are talking, I sometimes will reach into my briefcase and take out my Bible. They look at it. They see the gold pages and the ribbons. And at that point, I might as well have pulled out a live skunk. It represents truth to them, and deep down inside, they know it is the truth.

There is power in the name of Jesus and in the Word of God.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

Rachel Concludes Her 3 Week Series

I have been honor and blessed in my years of ministry to have awesome leaders working with me in ministry. I truly value my leaders and the different giftings, experiences and ideas they bring with them into the ministry. I think this quote that I received in my email from Fast Company's First Impression really shares my heart for my leadership team.

"You can't be a great leader without having someone there with the courage to support you."—Jon Luther, CEO, Dunkin' Donuts

Tonight, Rachel concludes her three weeks of sharing with FUSE Student Ministry. She has done a great job, and I know she will do an awesome job tonight. I actually have enjoyed receiving from what she has been sharing.

I really enjoy investing into my leaders. I do my best to set them up to succeed without me being around. I want to encourage every leader and pastor who reads this blog to invest in your leaders and allow them to take the ball and run with it.

Daily Caffeination 01/24/07

Courage to Stand

If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.—1 Peter 4:14

Throughout history, God has given special grace and courage to millions of Christians who were persecuted for the faith or who lost their lives. They were unwilling to renounce the Lord, unwilling to deny the Lord who had so radically changed their lives.

We may hear the stories of these Christians and say, “What a tragedy.” But I don’t think that’s a tragedy, because everyone has to die. These believers not only lived well, but they died well. They died for the greatest cause on the face of the earth: the cause of Jesus Christ.

Sometimes we might think, I don’t know if I could handle it if my life were actually threatened for the sake of the gospel. But if God allowed you to be put into such a situation, then I am confident He would give you the strength you need to face it. He would give you the boldness and courage that you need.

Jesus told His followers, “Now when they bring you to the synagogues and magistrates and authorities, do not worry about how or what you should answer, or what you should say. For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say” (Luke 12:11–12).

This does not mean you should not be prepared for such a day. You simply should not be worried about it, knowing that God will not give you more than you can handle. He will give you just the right words for just the right situation. And not only will God give you the right words to say in a given situation, but He will give you the power to stand up for your faith—even it means harassment or hardship or persecution.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

Who Wrote These Lyrics? Part 2

On Thursday January 11th, I posted a blog titled "Who Wrote These Lyrics?" Well today I will give you the answer.

Here are the lyrics once again, the song is called, "The River"

Baptized in the river
As I walk through the valley
of the shadow of LA
The footsteps that were next to me
have gone their separate ways
I've seen enough now
to know that beautiful things
don't always stay that way
I've done enough now
to know this beautiful place
isn't everything they say
I heard that evil comes disguised
Like the city of angels
I'm walking towards the light

Baptized in the river
I've seen a vision of my life
And I wanna be delivered
In the city was a sinner
I've done a lot of things wrong
But I swear I'm a believer
Like the prodigal son
I was out on my own
Now I'm trying to find my way back home
Baptized in the river
I'm delivered
I'm delivered

Today the song became available on iTunes for download...which I just did. The artist of this song is...

Good Charlotte from their upcoming Good Morning Revival. Having somewhat of a personal knowledge of Benji and Joel Madden, through a very close relationship we have had with their Uncle and Aunt, as well their mom who attended our former church in Alexandria, VA. I believe the song and album will be a suprise to many and I believe the guys have come back to their faith.

It is a worth taken a listen to this song, as well as checking out their video blog talking about this song and upcoming album.

10k Training Day #5

Today, I officially continued my 10k training for March 31st. After, five days of being off it was hard getting back in the groove, however through determination and perseverence I was able to overcome.

After doing my Tuesday routine of shoulder/back lifting workout, I got on the treadmill and set my goal at 40 minutes. I ran/jogged with a little walking for 40 minutes for 3.25 miles. This is better than my previous run last week - 43 minutes for 3.2 miles. I am improving, which is an awesome thing. In three weeks my goal is to do 4 miles in 40 minutes. Also in three weeks I want to run outside on pavement and start getting used to doing that. I feel like I am really progressing, I will chase this lion and defeat it.

Daily Caffeination 01/23/07

When Opportunity Knocks

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.—1 Peter 3:15

To recognize opportunity is the difference between success and failure. When opportunity knocks, we have to get up and answer the door. And we never know when it will knock.

If we as Christians are going to obey the Lord’s command to go into all the world and preach the gospel, then we must know what we believe and how to present it. The Bible tells us, “Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear” (1 Peter 3:15).

Sadly, many Christians are unable to do just that. They have little to no understanding of why or what they believe. The Bible warns that “we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting” (Ephesians 4:14). When we don’t know what we believe, we are vulnerable. And because of this spiritual deficiency, we are ineffective witnesses for the Lord.

The Bible tells us that Stephen certainly was not such a man. He was prepared for a significant moment in his life, a defining moment in both his life and the church. We see from Acts 7 that when he was brought before the Sanhedrin, Stephen was ready for the opportunity God dropped in his lap. He seized the moment and made a difference.

You can do the same. Because you never know when those golden opportunities will come your way. As they would say in the 19th century, “Trust in God and keep your powder dry.” Be ready for that opportunity, because you never know when the Lord will drop it in your lap.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

Daily Caffeination 01/22/07

A Life that Matters

But as for me, I trust in You, O Lord; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in Your hand.—Psalm 31:14–15

I am sometimes a little amused when I read obituaries in the newspaper or hear what is said at some peoples’ funerals. Whoever the deceased was, he or she was the greatest person who ever lived. There was never a person more compassionate, more loving, or more caring. This is because when someone dies, we want to say the best about him or her.

But what if we told the truth at funerals? What if someone stood up and said, “Was this person not a jerk? He squandered his life. More than a few of us in this room were ripped off by him. He was selfish. He didn’t care about others. All he cared about was himself. And quite frankly, I am kind of glad he is gone, aren’t you?”

Of course we would never say that. Instead, we might even stretch the truth about how wonderful a person was.

If someone were to sum up your life, what would they say you lived for? What will they remember you for? That will be your legacy. Wouldn’t you like it to be honestly said of you, “This person loved God. He cared about the things of God. He really cared about other people. This person really lived for the Lord”?

The ultimate waste is to throw your life away, to squander it. Yet so many people do. One day, you will breathe your last breath. One day, you will make your last statement. One day, you will eat your last meal. What will you be remembered for?

Live a life that matters. Live a life that makes a difference. Live a life for Him, and you will never regret it.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

Back At Crosslight Today

After two months of having the opportunity to go to Bedford and minister to wonderful people there, today I come back home to Crosslight Assembly of God. I get to be with my Crosslight family again. I am excited about worshipping with them this morning, however I miss having to preach every week, but there is so much more to ministry than just preaching.

Over last few months I have really felt disconnected from my Crosslight family so I am happy about being able to reconnect with everyone. Oh by the way, we have a potluck dinner/lunch after church today as well, yeah! Worshipping together and connecting over food what more can you ask for? :-)

I hope everyone has an amazing Sunday. I know I am looking forward to it.

Daily Caffeination 01/21/07

The Skillful Worker

Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men. - Proverbs 22:29

The Lord has called each of us to be excellent in what we do. Those whom God used in the Kingdom as workplace ministers were skilled and exemplified excellence in their field. Not only were these men skilled, they were filled with God's Spirit.

Then the Lord said to Moses, "See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts-to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship" (Exodus 31:1-5).

Consider Huram, the master craftsman of bronze in whom Solomon entrusted much of the temple designs. He was a true master craftsman (see 1 Kings 7:14).

Consider Joseph, whose skill as an administrator was known throughout Egypt and the world. Consider Daniel, who served his king with great skill and integrity. The list could go on-David, Nehemiah, Acquilla and Priscilla.

I recall the first issue of an international publication we began. It was common to hear the comment, "It doesn't even look like a Christian magazine." They were saying the quality and excellence exceeded what they equated to Christian work. What a shame. Has inferior quality become synonymous with Christian work?

May we strive for excellence in all that we do for the Master of the universe.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving (Colossians 3:23-24).

(by Os Hillman, from Today God Is First, Destiny Image Publishers, Inc. Copyright 2000)

The Whole Shopping Experience

When in Northern Virginia there has always been one grocery store I love to go to for the total shopping experience and that has been Wegmans in Fairfax. Yesterday and this morning Lora and I went to a newly opened Whole Foods Market, may I say it is simply awesome.

They have organic foods, fresh produce, a huge meat selection, hot food and salad bar, sushi bar, store made gelato area, an italian restaurant, cafe, wireless internet connection and yes a raw oyster and seafood bar where you can sit. This place is the total shopping experience along with the samples as you shop.

A store like Whole Foods Market and Wegmans makes shopping fun. Oh I failed to menttion their huge cheese section (INCREDIBLE). Who eould ever of thought that grocery shopping would be so much fun. Grocery stores has been redefined for the total shopping experience. It is no longer just a store, it is so much more. I love it!

On a side note, churches need to be more like this as well. Like or not, the reality is people are shopping for churches and are looking for the whole church experience that will meet their needs.

Look at Whole Foods Market's Core Values and Quality Standards, which they have posted in their store, very impressive.

The following list of core values reflects what is truly important to us as an organization. These are not values that change from time to time, situation to situation or person to person, but rather they are the underpinning of our company culture. Many people feel Whole Foods is an exciting company of which to be a part and a very special place to work. These core values are the primary reasons for this feeling, and they transcend our size and our growth rate. By maintaining these core values, regardless of how large a company Whole Foods becomes, we can preserve what has always been special about our company. These core values are the soul of our company.

Selling the Highest Quality Natural and Organic Products Available

Passion For Food
We appreciate and celebrate the difference natural and organic products can make in the quality of one's life.

Quality Standards
We have high standards and our goal is to sell the highest quality products we possibly can. We define quality by evaluating the ingredients, freshness, safety, taste, nutritive value and appearance of all of the products we carry. We are buying agents for our customers and not the selling agents for the manufacturers.

Satisfying and Delighting Our Customers

Our Customers
They are our most important stakeholders in our business and the lifeblood of our business. Only by satisfying our customers first do we have the opportunity to satisfy the needs of our other stakeholders.

Extraordinary Customer Service
We go to extraordinary lengths to satisfy and delight our customers. We want to meet or exceed their expectations on every shopping trip. We know that by doing so we turn customers into advocates for our business. Advocates do more than shop with us, they talk about Whole Foods to their friends and others. We want to serve our customers competently, efficiently, knowledgeably and with flair.

Education
We can generate greater appreciation and loyalty from all of our stakeholders by educating them about natural and organic foods, health, nutrition and the environment.

Meaningful Value
We offer value to our customers by providing them with high quality products, extraordinary service and a competitive price. We are constantly challenged to improve the value proposition to our customers.

Retail Innovation
We value retail experiments. Friendly competition within the company helps us to continually improve our stores. We constantly innovate and raise our retail standards and are not afraid to try new ideas and concepts.

Inviting Store Environments
We create store environments that are inviting and fun, and reflect the communities they serve. We want our stores to become community meeting places where our customers meet their friends and make new ones.

Supporting Team Member Excellence and Happiness

Empowering Work Environments
Our success is dependent upon the collective energy and intelligence of all of our Team Members. We strive to create a work environment where motivated Team Members can flourish and succeed to their highest potential. We appreciate effort and reward results.

Self-Responsibility
We take responsibility for our own success and failures. We celebrate success and see failures as opportunities for growth. We recognize that we are responsible for our own happiness and success.

Self-Directed Teams
The fundamental work unit of the company is the self- directed Team. Teams meet regularly to discuss issues, solve problems and appreciate each others' contributions. Every Team Member belongs to a Team.

Open & Timely Information
We believe knowledge is power and we support our Team Members' right to access information that impacts their jobs. Our books are open to our Team Members, including our annual individual compensation report. We also recognize everyone's right to be listened to and heard regardless of their point of view.

Incremental Progress
Our company continually improves through unleashing the collective creativity and intelligence of all of our Team Members. We recognize that everyone has a contribution to make. We keep getting better at what we do.

Shared Fate
We recognize there is a community of interest among all of our stakeholders. There are no entitlements; we share together in our collective fate. To that end we have a salary cap that limits the compensation (wages plus profit incentive bonuses) of any Team Member to fourteen times the average total compensation of all full-time Team Members in the company.

Creating Wealth Through Profits & Growth

Stewardship
We are stewards of our shareholders' investments and we take that responsibility very seriously. We are committed to increasing long term shareholder value.

Profits
We earn our profits everyday through voluntary exchange with our customers. We recognize that profits are essential to creating capital for growth, prosperity, opportunity, job satisfaction and job security.

Caring About Our Communities & Our Environment

Sustainable Agriculture
We support organic farmers, growers and the environment through our commitment to sustainable agriculture and by expanding the market for organic products.

Wise Environmental Practices
We respect our environment and recycle, reuse, and reduce our waste wherever and whenever we can.

Community Citizenship
We recognize our responsibility to be active participants in our local communities. We give a minimum of 5% of our profits every year to a wide variety of community and non-profit organizations. In addition, we pay our Team Members to give of their time to community and service organizations.

Integrity In All Business Dealings
Our trade partners are our allies in serving our stakeholders. We treat them with respect, fairness and integrity at all times and expect the same in return.

Our Quality Standards

We carry natural and organic products because we believe that food in its purest state — unadulterated by artificial additives, sweeteners, colorings, and preservatives — is the best tasting and most nutritious food available.

Our business is to sell the highest quality foods we can find at the most competitive prices possible. We evaluate quality in terms of nutrition, freshness, appearance, and taste. Our search for quality is a never-ending process involving the careful judgment of buyers throughout the company.

• We carefully evaluate each and every product we sell.

• We feature foods that are free of artificial preservatives, colors, flavors, sweeteners, and hydrogenated fats.

• We are passionate about great tasting food and the pleasure of sharing it with others.

• We are committed to foods that are fresh, wholesome and safe to eat.

• We seek out and promote organically grown foods.

• We provide food and nutritional products that support health and well-being.

Whole Foods Market's Quality Standards team maintains an extensive list of unacceptable ingredients. However, creating a product with no unacceptable ingredients does not guarantee that Whole Foods Market will sell it. Our buyers are passionate about seeking out the freshest, most healthful, minimally processed products available.

When in the Fairfax area, I encourage you to check out Whole Foods Market and/or Wegmans.

Daily Caffeination 01/20/07 from Centerville, VA

The Person God Uses

Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.—Colossians 3:23

When I was 18 and a new Christian, I quickly came to understand where the phrase “starving artist” came from. All I knew how to do was draw cartoons, so I was doing that as well as some freelance graphics on the side. I was trying to make ends meet, but I wanted to be used by God. So I would hang around Calvary Chapel of Costa Mesa, waiting for an opportunity just to do something.

One day, one of the pastors said to me, “Greg, I need you to do something for the church.”

I said, “What is it?” Preach the gospel to the ends of the Earth? Pray for the sick? I am ready.

“We need you to buy a doorknob.”

“A doorknob?”

“Yes,” he said. “We need you to go to Sears and buy a new doorknob for the church door.”

It was a little job, but I was excited for the opportunity. I was on a mission from God to buy a doorknob. I went to Sears. There must have been 300 kinds of doorknobs in every size, shape, and finish. I finally bought one. I took it back to the church. I was so excited. It was the wrong size. But I tried.

Are you excited for any opportunity to serve the Lord, even if it is a little one? The issue is not big jobs or little jobs. It is that you are doing it for the Lord. Is just the fact that God would call on you and direct you enough in itself? Is it enough that God would want to use you? If so, then you are the kind of person God is looking for right now.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

Bad What Cafe?

After dropping Lora off at the office this morning, I had to by our disrtict offices in Gainesville to drop off some stuff and see the really cool people in Potomac Youth Ministries department. Afterwards, I wanted to stop by the Family Christian Stores in Manassas and see a good friend of mine that used to work with at Family about 8 years ago, actually it was her husband Thomas that hired me at the Family Christian Stores in Alexandria 10 years ago. After I left there I decided to go to the coffee shop that is right next door to the Family CHRISTIAN Stores picture below...
I hope this doesn't offend anyone, if it does I am sorry. I did go in and get a cup of Gingerbread Latte, not bad or should I say not too bad...well maybe I shouldn't. :-) Actually, yesterday at Ebenezers Coffeehouse, their coffee was much better. By the way that is where I was at when I took this picture from my "Where Am I?" post.
Only one person was able to guess where I was at...great job Tony, dude you are perceptive. Anyways, I just wanted to share with you all my unique coffeehouse experience in Manassas. :-)

Daily Caffeination 01/19/07 - from Centreville, VA

An Outlet for Your Inlet

“Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”—Luke 6:38

A lot of Christians today who have known the Lord for many years are facing spiritual stagnation. They are saying, “I have been a Christian for so long. I know the Bible so well. I go to church every week. What is wrong?”

I can tell you what is wrong. They need an outlet for their inlet. If you don’t have an outlet for what you are taking in, then you will stagnate. The truth of God’s Word was not designed to be hoarded, but to be shared. And the more you give out, the more God gives to you.

Jesus said, “Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you” (Luke 6:38). Proverbs 11:25 says, “The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.” The Bible is saying that if you want a soul that is full, if you want a life that is rich, then give out.

It’s a radical thought. And it flies in the face of what we hear today, especially in our touchy-feely, narcissistic culture in which we are all trying to help our wounded inner child and build our self-esteem.

Jesus was saying, “Want to find life? Then lose it. Deny yourself.” This means we stop focusing on ourselves and start thinking about other people and their needs. Then we will find what we have been looking for all along —not by searching for it, but as the byproduct of a life that is properly aligned with God.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

Awesome Picture of the United States Capital Building

A really awesome picture that I took today of our United States Capital Building...

A Little Nostalgia...

I am in the Washington DC area today, an area that I absolutely love. I was born and raised in this area and lived here until about six years ago. Well this morning, I got a little nostalgic remembering my childhood and teen years. These years were not always the best years of my life, actually I went through some tough times and did a whole lot of things that I am not proud of. However, I got through those times and I am who I am today because of those tough times in my life.

Today, I drove around to some signficant places from the times of my youth and of course I took pictures. Going back brought up some old memories and I am so thankful to God for where I am today. Here are a few pictures that I took.

7017 Grove Rd. - this the house I lived in for the first 15 years of my life. It looks so different now.
The park I spent alot of time at playing and hanging with friends and yes getting into trouble.
My elementary school, Groveton Elementary- Kindergarten to 6th Grade, plus one extra year for 2nd grade (I was held back).
West Potomac High School the school I went to my freshman year, played on the freshman football team we went 9-0 that year, I was defensive end and tight end.
My high school for my 10th-12th grade years, T.C. Williams High School in Alexandria
This is the school that was depicted in "Remember the Titans"
The church I got saved at, married in and called to ministry, First Assembly of God in Alexandria.

Where Am I?

Where am I? Do you know? Mmmmm, that is a great cup of white chocolate mocha! I am hanging in a really cool place right now. Can you guess?

2 Great Quotes for 1 Low Price

Here are two great quotes that I have seen recently from Fast Company's First Impression daily emails.

"One does not succeed by sticking to convention."
—Garry Kasparov, chess grandmaster

"Starbucks is more than just a wonderful cup of coffee."
—Howard Schultz, Chairman, Starbucks

Starbucks to me is the whole experience. I took this picture when I was in Boston, it is one of my favorites.

Daily Caffeination 01/18/07

Standing in the Gap

I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before Me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none. - Ezekiel 22:30

The people of Israel fell into sin when they worshiped the golden calf. It would not be the last time God's people would fall into idol worship. They had forgotten the great things God had done for them. This angered God so much that He was going to destroy the whole nation. Only one thing changed God's mind in the matter-Moses. Psalm 106:23 says, "...had not Moses, His chosen one, stood in the breach before Him to keep His wrath from destroying them." Moses was a man willing to stand in the gap, sacrificially, for those who were not deserving of such sacrifice. This sacrificial love by Moses is called for among His people today.

The prophet Ezekiel described another situation in which God's people fell into sin. God was ready to destroy the nation when He spoke to Ezekiel, asking him if there is a man willing to stand in the gap so that God would not have to destroy His people.

Judah was a man who stood in the gap on behalf of his younger brother Benjamin. Joseph held his brother Simeon hostage as insurance that the other brothers would bring Benjamin to Egypt. Judah had a long history of a me-focused life, but in this instance he came forward to stand in the gap for his younger brother. He responded to the anguish of his father, Jacob, by personally guaranteeing the safe return of both Simeon and Benjamin. Judah's sacrifice was rewarded (see Gen. 42-43).

Just as Christ did, we are to be those who will stand in the gap on behalf of others who are not aware of their own vulnerable condition. It is a proactive sacrificial position. Who is God calling you to stand in the gap for? Perhaps it is a mate; perhaps it is a coworker who has not come to know the Savior; perhaps it is a wayward child. Are you willing to become the sacrificial offering to God to change His plans of judgment because of your willingness to stand in their place? This is a hard teaching. This is what Jesus did for each of us. When we stand in the place of another, God moves because of our willingness to stand on their behalf. If we don't, His plans will go forward because He is a righteous and holy God who will honor His own word, even if it means destruction. Are you willing to stand in the breach of the wall for someone today? Perhaps you are the only person who will stand on someone's behalf.

(by Os Hillman, from Today God Is First, Destiny Image Publishers, Inc. Copyright 2000)

Headed to Northern Virginia Baby!!!

Tonight, after youth Lora and I are headed to Northern Virginia for a few days. For those that don't know Lora's office is in Alexandria so about twice a month she heads up there for a few days for meetings. This week I get to go up there for several reasons. On Saturday her association is having their semi-formal "holiday party" and spouses get to go. Party time!!!

Also, tomorrow afternoon I have a meeting in the area. All that I will say about this is...CHASE THE LION!

One other thing, since I am going to be away from the Y for the next few days I will have to put my 10k training on hold until Monday, unless one of my faithful blog readers in the Northern VA area belong to gym that allows you to bring a guest, would allow me to be your guest and use your gym. If this is possible email at revivalgeneration@comcast.net and we can hook up. I hate missing my workouts.

Daily Caffeination 01/17/07

The Day of Small Things

For who has despised the day of small things?—Zechariah 4:10

One quality we consistently find in the lives of the men and women throughout Scripture whom God put His hand on is faithfulness. We read in 2 Timothy 2:2, “And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (italics added). And Jesus said, “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much” (Luke 16:10).

Right now, you may be in a place in life where nothing seems to be happening. You might be thinking, Lord, come on! Use me. Call on me. I will turn this world upside down for You. But the Lord may be saying, “You are not ready yet. I have to prepare you first.” Be faithful to do what He has set before you today to the best of your ability.

That is what Stephen did. Acts 6 tells us that his job was to serve tables. Notice the church leaders didn’t say, “Stephen, go out and do miracles and then go preach the gospel to the Sanhedrin. While you are preaching, a guy named Saul of Tarsus will hear you. He ultimately will be converted. He will be the greatest preacher in the history of the church.” Instead, Stephen waited on tables. And as the Lord found him faithful in the little things, He gave him more responsibility.

You can never be too small for God to use; only too big. We need to be faithful in what God has set before us. Because if we are not faithful in the little things, then we won’t be in the big things.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

10k Training Day #4

We went back to the YMCA tonight at 5:30, Lora did a physical training class and I got on the treadmill. I ran/jogged for 43 minutes and went 3.2 miles. The last five minutes was my cool down, however I ran 3 miles in 37 minutes...yeah!!! Determination as I chase the lion.

Commercials

I am one of those people who enjoy watching commercials. I like to see the creative marketing in many of these commercials, I especially like those commercials that are entertaining and make me laugh.

With that said, some of my favorite all time commercials are done by ESPN. I am not sure how many of you have actually seen any of these commercials on ESPN, but these things are hilarious. Their creative/advertising department must be awesome. I also enjoy the Pepsi commercials run during football games using the various football players and coaches in game time situation talking about how they want a Pepsi. And of course there are those amazing MACs vs. PCs commercials.

Of course their are horrible commercials, examples are commercials for various law firms in the Richmond, VA area and the ever irritating Head-On commercial...Head-on apply directly to the forehead, Head-on apply directly to the forehead, Head-on apply directly to the forehead. Ugghhhh!

Anyways, I am looking forward to Superbowl XLI, no not for the game, and not for any particular team but for the commercials.

Daily Caffeination 01/16/07

Under the Spirit’s Control

Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit.—Ephesians 5:17–18

When we hear the term “filled with the Spirit,” it can sometimes frighten us. We might have seen bizarre things take place in the name of the Holy Spirit. So we think, If that is being filled with the Holy Spirit, then I don’t know if I want it.

To be filled with the Holy Spirit doesn’t necessarily involve an emotional experience. It can, but it doesn’t have to. The word “filled” as used in the Bible, and specifically in Ephesians 5:18, is a word that has many shades of meaning. Not one of them, however, describes an emotional experience. One translation of the word “filled” is the idea of wind filling the sail of a ship. The wind carries that vessel along. So to be filled with the Spirit means that God fills your sails, so to speak, and guides you through life. You are led through life by the Holy Spirit.

But the idea of being filled with the Spirit also carries the meaning of being permeated. In the original language, the word was also used to describe salt permeating meat to flavor and preserve it. God wants His Holy Spirit to permeate the lives of His children in what they say, think, and do. In other words, being filled with the Spirit is not limited to one, isolated instance.

To be filled with the Spirit means that God’s Spirit infuses every aspect of our lives. He saturates our prayer life, our worship life, and our business life too. He influences the way we treat others. To be filled with the Spirit is walking thought by thought, decision by decision, and act by act, under the Spirit’s control.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

10k Training Day #3

On this Monday morning I continued my training for the Ukrop's Monument 10k. I did my shoulders/arms lifting - standing curls, shoulder press, tricep pulldowns, and fitlinx - curls, reverse flys, seated shoulder pushdowns.

After, I did my 45 minute lifting, I got on the treadmill and ran for 35 minutes and for 2.73 miles. Afterwards I was totally exhausted. I felt like quitting at 20 minutes, but I pushed through and went the full 35 minutes. I will not quit!!! I will not surrender!!! Errrrrrr!!!! :-)

I may go back to the gym this evening and do some more cardio...we will see if I will do it.

****Added @ 7:00pm****
Yes, I did go back to the gym to do more cardio - 35 minutes for 3.7 miles on the Elliptical Machine, and then I did 10 minutes for .7 miles on a new machine that we just got at the Y, it is the Summit Machine (like climbing a mountain summit in the snow) it takes down mortal men :-).

I worked hard today, it was a great training day for me. Next training day will be Wednesday, I will run the treadmill.

Daily Caffeination 01/15/07

God’s Heroes

For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty.—1 Corinthians 1:26–27

In many ways, we have lost the meaning of the word “hero.” We throw it around so casually. If you can put a ball through a hoop, you are a sports hero. If you can play eight chords on a guitar, you are a rock’ n roll hero. If you can pretend to be something you really are not, you are a Hollywood hero. We have a strange concept as to who our heroes really are.

I remember watching a well-known journalist interview an actor about his recent movie, which featured a politically troubled region of the world. When the journalist asked the celebrity what he thought should be done about the political situation there, the actor responded, “Who cares what I think?” and went on to point out that he was just an actor. All too often, we mistakenly think actors really are the people they portray. We think they are heroes when, in fact, they are just people like you and me.

A hero is someone who does something sacrificial, something courageous. There are heroes today, of course. We saw many of them in action on 9/11 and in the days that followed. But often, today’s heroes are operating behind the scenes, and we never know about them.

As we look at heroes of the faith, those in Scripture and in contemporary history whom God put His hand on, one thing stands out. It seems that God has always gone out of His way to find individuals who did not necessarily look like heroes. And that is precisely the point. God isn’t looking for a strong man or woman per se. Rather, He’s looking for someone whom He can be strong on behalf of.

Great Final Service This Morning In Bedford

After two wonderful months of preaching on Sundays in Bedford, VA at Faith Fellowship Assembly of God it came to an end today with a great service.

Just a few thoughts about my time with wonderful folks at Faith Fellowship. The people there are some of sweetest and the most encouraging people you will every meet. I am so thankful for the opportunity I had to minister to this congregation. My heart and prayers continue to go with them as they look towards their future as a church. I hope I was able to bless them half as much as they blessed me. In this small congregation where many are over the age of 40 years old, they accepted and loved this young 33 year old punk kid :-).

This was an amazing opportunity for me to be able share and the ability to inspire and influence this community of faith in Bedford. I gained invaluable experience through being able to prepare and preach on Sundays. I got into a rhythm of preparing for Sundays. It will definitly be weird not preaching on Sunday mornings now. One thing these las two month has done was to confirm my calling.

My time in Bedford is part of my New Years Resolution of Chasing the Lions. This was an opportunity I had to seize. This was also an uncertainity I needed to embrace. I am so thankful and honored to be able to do this at a precious church. This is one of those experiences that I will never forget. Thank you Lord for giving this time to to me.

Oh by the way, I preached the second part of Chase the Lion message - I shared the final four skills that lion chasers must have...
4-Embracing uncertainity
5-Taking risks
6-Seizing every opportunity
7-Looking foolish

****Added****
(I forgot to mention that Lora sang this morning as well. She sang Unfailing Love by Chris Tomlin, here is a picture of my amazing wife singing she did an awesome job.)

Unfailing Love
by Chris Tomlin
You have my heart
And I am Yours forever
You are my strength
God of grace and power

And everything You hold in Your hand
Still You make time for me
I can't understand
Praise You God of Earth and sky
How beautiful is Your unfailing love
Unfailing love

And You never change God You remain
The Holy One
My unfailing love
Unfailing love

You are my rock
The one I hold on to
You are my song
And I sing for You

And everything You hold in Your hand
Still You make time for me
I can't understand
Praise You God of Earth and sky
How beautiful is Your unfailing love
Unfailing love

And You never change God You remain
The Holy One
My Unfailing love
Unfailing love

And everything You hold in Your hand
Still you make time for me
I can't understand
Praise You God of Earth and sky
How beautiful is Your unfailing love
Unfailing love

And You never change God You remain
The Holy One
My Unfailing love
Unfailing love

I will praise You
Praise you God of earth and sky
How beautiful is your unfailing love
Unfailing love

And You never change God You remain
The Holy One
My Unfailing love

Daily Caffeination 01/14/07

Move On!

..."Why are you crying out to Me? Tell the Israelites to move on." - Exodus 14:15

Moses had brought the whole nation of Israel, approximately 600,000, to a dead end in the desert. The only thing between Israel and Pharaoh's pursuing army was the Red Sea. This was after nine plagues God had inflicted on Pharaoh to motivate him to free the Israelites. Finally, Pharaoh had freed Moses and the people, and they left Egypt. They thought they were home free. "Freedom at last," they said. But God did a strange thing. He directed Moses to take a route that led to the Red Sea, instead of the northern route around the Red Sea. God explained that He didn't want them fighting the enemies they would have encountered on this route. But still, there was the issue of the Red Sea.

They finally arrived at the Red Sea, and the people were wondering where they would go from there. News hit the camp: Pharaoh had changed his mind. He was coming after them with his army. Panic set in. The defenseless Israelites cried out, "Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die?...It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!" (Ex. 14:11b-12)

God sometimes brings each of us to a "Red Sea" in our life. It may be a work problem that can't be solved. It may be a marriage that seems to be failing. It may be a debilitating disease. Whatever your Red Sea, God tells us one thing: "Keep moving." The Red Sea was before them, yet God was angered at Moses and told him to "Keep moving."

"But Lord, the Red Sea is before me." "Keep moving." When we live by sight, we act on what we see. God sets this stage in dramatic fashion. God is into the dramatic. There is no way out without God here. That is just the way He wants it. No one will get glory except God.

A friend once admonished me when I was in the midst of a marriage separation that eventually led to a divorce, "You must not withdraw from being proactive in your faith just because of this trial that you are in. God's hand is on your life. There are too many who are depending on you to fulfill the purposes God has in your life. Keep moving! Keep investing yourself in others." I didn't feel like it. I was in too much pain. But I did it anyway. God met me at the point of my greatest need once I decided simply to be obedient. Getting past myself by investing myself in others helped heal the pain. There is great healing when we look past our own problems and seek to invest ourselves in others for the sake of Christ. This is when our own Red Seas become parted. We begin to walk to freedom. But we will never experience the miracle of the Red Sea in our lives if we don't first "Keep moving."

(by Os Hillman, from Today God Is First, Destiny Image Publishers, Inc. Copyright 2000)

Dutch Blitz, Spades, House Warming, NFL Playoffs and Preaching

What do these things have in commom? Well, really nothing, except for the fact these are things I can say that I have done or will be doing this weekend.

Last night, we had the opportunity to hang with Danny and Rachel Wood, student ministry leaders and good friends. Rachel is doing a three week series for FUSE Student Ministry this month. We hung out at their house and played Spades and Dutch Blitz card games. I am addicted to Spades, I play this game all the time on the internet on Yahoo! Dutch Blitz is a new game for Lora and me, very fast paced and exciting. However, I do not do very well at Dutch Blitz, which really bothers me as a competitor, I hate losing. Last night, I went 0-4 in all the card games. Danny and I played as a team in Spades and got beaten by oour wives. And Dutch Blitz, I ended up in last place both times. I will pick up my pride later. :-) We had an awesome time hanging with Danny and Rachel.

This afternoon, we are going to a house warming that our church is sponsoring for an awesome family that just started to attend our church last summer. The family moved down to Virginia from Canada. I actually was able to go with Josh (the husband and father) to a hockey game back in December. I am looking forward to spending time and hanging out with this amazing family and my Crosslight family.

Also this weekend, we will be watching the NFL playoffs. I cannot believe football season is just about over, how sad is that? I am cheering on the New Orleans Saints in NFC and the San Diego Chargers for the AFC. Have you made your Superbowl plans yet? We are looking forward to hanging with our YMCA Early Risers group at the Superbowl party.

Well tomorrow is the last Sunday @ Faith Fellowship in Bedford. I am actually going to miss it, not the drive though. I am going to miss the honor and opportunity I have had each Sunday to preach. I have gotten into a good rhythm of preparing and preaching, it is going to feel weird not doing that each week. I am also going to miss those people that I had the opportunity to minister to and pour out myself into their lives. I am looking forward to that day when I will be able to plant a church and to be able to that on a regular basis. I have mixed feelings about this coming to an end. I am looking forward to coming back home on Sundays to my Crosslight family.

Well here's to a fun and an exciting weekend.

Daily Caffeination 01/13/07

Finding the Will of God

I desire to do Your will, O my God; Your law is within my heart. - Psalm 40:8

How would you describe the process by which you find and do God's will in your life? For some, finding God's will is like playing bumper cars. We keep going in one direction until we bump into an obstacle, turn, and go in another direction. It is a constant process of elimination, failure, or success. Is this the way God would have us find His will? No. There is much more relationship between hearing God's voice and living within the mystery of His omnipotence in our lives. Perhaps this process is more like water in a streambed. The water is constantly flowing to a final destination. As it presses against the streambed, it gently points the water toward its final destination. There are no abrupt head-on collisions, simply slight modifications of direction. Occasionally, we come to a sharp turn in the contours of our life. For those times, God allows us to stretch our normal response to change. A popular Bible study says that we cannot go with God and stay where we are. Finding and doing God's will always require change. What changes are necessary in your life to join God in what He is already doing?

There is a direct connection between finding and doing God's will and having God's law in our heart. A friend once complained that he did not know what God wanted of him in his life. My immediate response was, "How much time do you spend with God in Bible study, prayer, and meditation on Scripture?" "Only a few minutes a day," he replied. How can we expect to hear and discern God's voice if we don't spend focused time with Him? If you have a spouse, how did you get to know him or her before you were married? You spent time together. You got to know everything about each other. Our walk with God is no different. It isn't enough to have a desire to follow God; we must put our energy into getting to know Him. His will for us flows out of our relationship, it is not an end in itself. Commit yourself to seeking Him more in your life by spending more time with Him. "Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know" (Jer. 33:3).

(by Os Hillman, from Today God Is First, Destiny Image Publishers, Inc. Copyright 2000)

Daily Caffeination 01/12/07

Vengeance Is Mine

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” —Romans 12:21

Not to forgive is to usurp the authority of God. It’s like taking God’s place. You see, if you are a Christian, then it isn’t your right to hold bitterness and unforgiveness in your heart. In fact, the Bible clearly forbids that. Instead, we are commanded to forgive others.

The apostle Paul wrote, “Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord. Therefore if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink.” (Romans 12:19–20). As Christians, we should never take revenge.

“How am I going to do this?” we may wonder. “It’s so hard.” The answer is that we need the help of the Holy Spirit. We need to say, “God, it’s practically impossible for me to do this, but You have told me do it, and I know You won’t ask me to do anything that you will not give me the power to do.”

However, let’s not sit around and wait for some wave of forgiveness to sweep over our emotions. That may never come. But in obedience to God, be willing to say to that person who has wronged you, “I forgive you.” Don’t worry about your emotions. Just do what God tells you to do, because it is the right thing to do.

You can overcome evil with good.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

Who Wrote These Lyrics?

There is this one band, at this time to remain nameless, after all I don't want them to lose their street cred. Anyways, I know their mom really well, she attended the church I was at in Northern VA and Lora and I are really close to their uncle and aunt. Well anyways, I heard this new song from this huge, mainstream band this past weekend and it is simply awesome.

Can you guess without google-ing, what band that these lyrics belong to? One hint: They have a new album coming out in March.

Baptized in the river
As I walk through the valley
of the shadow of LA
The footsteps that were next to me
have gone their separate ways
I've seen enough now
to know that beautiful things
don't always stay that way
I've done enough now
to know this beautiful place
isn't everything they say
I heard that evil comes disguised
Like the city of angels
I'm walking towards the light

Baptized in the river
I've seen a vision of my life
And I wanna be delivered
In the city was a sinner
I've done a lot of things wrong
But I swear I'm a believer
Like the prodigal son
I was out on my own
Now I'm trying to find my way back home
Baptized in the river
I'm delivered
I'm delivered

10k Training Day #2

This morning at the gym, I did my normal Thurday shoulder/arm lifting . Then I got on the treadmill and ran/walked for 37 minutes for 2.55 miles. I really appreciate my gym "family" for pushing me and keeping me accountable as I train, especially Jeff and Arthur.

I will be heading back to the Y at 3:00 to do more cardio for about 45 minutes. I am getting serious about this, I am going to push myself to the limit.

Daily Caffeination 01/11/07

Toxic Unforgiveness

You have forgiven the iniquity of Your people; You have covered all their sin. —Psalm 85:2

We are the most litigious society on the face of the earth, with about 80 percent of the world’s attorneys living in the United States. More people graduate from law school than from any other professional academic course of study in the entire nation. And what do attorneys do? They sue and defend, because there is no forgiveness. We’re not willing to say, “It’s all right. I forgive you.”

And what is really toxic is our unwillingness to accept responsibility for our own actions and our unwillingness to forgive. It’s worse than toxic; it’s sinful. Let this not be said of us, God’s people! Unforgiveness will eat you up spiritually and, in many ways, bring your spiritual life to a standstill.

Unforgiveness is choosing to love hate. It produces bitterness, anger, rage, anxiety, and depression. Simply put, it is sin. Instead, we must forgive. Forgiveness, on the other hand, is like taking a piece of pottery and smashing it into a thousand pieces. There is no way it can ever be put together again.

God is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in lovingkindness and truth, and forgiving of iniquity, transgressions and sin (see Exodus 34:6–7). That is our God. He forgives.

You might say, “Greg, that’s God. God forgives. But I’m just a person. I’m flawed. I can’t forgive like that.”

If you want to become like Jesus, then you should reflect His character. God has said that if you confess your sin, He is faithful and just to forgive you of your sin and cleanse you from all unrighteousness (see 1 John 1:9). God has said it. And as His representative, you can do the same.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

Looking Forward to the Next 3 Weeks

Over the next three weeks I will be taking a little break from speaking on Wednesday nights for FUSE Student Ministry. I love to preach and I love my "kids", however I want to give one of my leaders an opportunity to develop her skills through doing a three week series. It is very important for pastors and leaders to give their leaders, especially those called in ministry an opportunity to do ministry.

It is a personal core value of mine is to influence and train young leaders for ministry. So beginning tonight for 3 weeks, Rachel Wood will be speaking. Her and her husband Danny, just started attending Crosslight last June, She is a graduate of Valley Forge Christian College and she was involved in various ministries in the Philadelphia, PA area. I believe God will use her in incredible ways.

I am truly looking forward to Rachel sharing and to be ministered by her.

I see too often pastors not allowing their staff to grow and minister in broader ways. I believe many times it is out of insecurities. In ministry there is absolutely no room for insecurity and pastors need to be willing let those who are called to grow in their gifts and talents. I know I have spiritual "children" and "grandchildren" in ministry because I have allowed those under my leadership to use their gifts and to do what they are called to do.

Daily Caffeination 01/10/07

Forgive Your Debtors

And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. —Ephesians 4:32

Jesus taught that our generous and constant forgiveness of sin should be the natural result of our understanding of the forgiveness that God has extended to us. Forgiven people should be forgiving people.

In The Lord’s Prayer, Jesus instructed us to pray, “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors” (Matthew 6:12). He was saying, “As you are receiving the forgiveness from God for the wrong that you have done, be sure to extend that same forgiveness to others who have wronged you.” It’s all connected.

This is important, because we are often on a quest to find that perfect something. We want the perfect husband. The perfect wife. The perfect church. The perfect friends. The perfect children. And we don’t find that perfection, because the people we expect to be perfect are just like us. They are flawed. We all are. We have to recognize that we sin and that people sin against us as well. We should forgive them, as we ourselves have been forgiven. The apostle Paul wrote, “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

A man once came to the great preacher John Wesley and said, “I never forgive and I never forget.” Wesley replied by saying, “Well, sir, I hope, then, that you never sin.”

Are you willing to be judged with the same judgment that you judge others with? “I never forgive and I never forget” — I’m so thankful God doesn’t deal with me that way. He is willing to do both. And so should we.

(Copyright © 2006 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.)

First Morning of Training

This morning, I started my first official day of training for the Ukrop's Monument 10k Run. I ran on the treadmill for 25 minutes at the average speed of 4.5 mph for 1.8 miles. For those that do not know 10k is equal to 6.2 miles. I am well on my way to do well and chase this physical lion.

I will be running 2-3 times a week mixing treadmill with elevation and running outside. I not only want to finish but I want to do really well and finish strong. Don't you hear the Rocky theme playing in the background.

Daily Caffeination 01/09/07

(Wow, I am an expert on this subject. :-) )

God-Inspired Delays

Yet when He heard that Lazarus was sick, He stayed where He was two more days. - John 11:6

Delays in our life are not always easy to handle or to reconcile in our minds. Often, when God does not answer our prayers in the time that we feel He should, we appoint all sorts of characteristics to God's nature that imply He does not care. Such was the case with Lazarus' sisters when Lazarus became ill and died. Jesus was a close friend to Lazarus and his two sisters, Mary and Martha. (Mary, you may recall, was the woman who came and poured perfume on Jesus' feet.) When Jesus arrived two days later, Martha shamed Him by saying, "If You had come he would not have died." She implied that He didn't care enough to come when sent for. It was a matter of priorities for Jesus, not lack of love.

God often has to delay His work in us in order to accomplish something for His purposes that can be achieved only in the delay. Jesus had to let Lazarus die in order for the miracle that was about to take place to have its full effect. If Jesus had simply healed a sick man, the impact of the miracle would not have been as newsworthy as resurrecting a man who had been dead for four days. This is Jesus' greatest "public relations act" of His whole ministry. What many do not realize is that the key to the whole story is in the next chapter.

Many people, because they had heard that He had given this miraculous sign, went out to meet Him. So the Pharisees said to one another, "See, this is getting us nowhere. Look how the whole world has gone after Him!" (John 12:18-19)

If Jesus had not raised Lazarus from the dead, there would have been no crowds to cheer the Lord when He came into Jerusalem riding on a donkey.

God often sets the stage so that His glory is revealed through the events that He orchestrates. He did this with Moses and Pharaoh, allowing delay after delay for release of the Israelites from Egypt. He did this with Abraham and Sarah for the promised child, Isaac. God granted Sarah a baby past the age of childbearing in order to demonstrate His power.

God did this in my own life. He delayed the fulfillment of what I believed He called me to do for several years. But the delays provided the necessary preparation and greater glory that God was to receive. My friend, don't take the delays lightly. Do not faint as God places you in what seems to be a holding pattern. God is at work. God knows the purposes for His delays. Don't give up, for they are for His greater glory; so we need to remain faithful.

(by Os Hillman, from Today God Is First, Destiny Image Publishers, Inc. Copyright 2000)