Our Teacher
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.”—John 14:26
We may not even realize it, but the Spirit of God teaches us all the time. The Holy Spirit can unfold passages from the Bible in an incredible way through our reading and study of Scripture. Needless to say, that is why we should spend regular time in Bible study and memorization. In doing so, we are opening the door for the Spirit to illuminate God’s Word for us.
When I read the Bible, I don’t have an incredible experience each time. But I read it because I know I need to, in obedience to God. It might be that very day or the next day when a situation will arise, and suddenly the passage I committed to memory is activated by the Holy Spirit. All of a sudden, the Holy Spirit takes that Scripture and uses it to minister to someone. It’s the Holy Spirit speaking through me, and that’s a wonderful experience.
When I step up to the pulpit, I depend on the Holy Spirit to speak through me. Yes, I have prepared. I have done my homework. But at the same time, I want God to speak to the people who are listening.
Sometimes, we will hear speakers and think they are the greatest preachers who have ever lived. But in reality, it is the Holy Spirit speaking through those people to us. So let’s give the glory to God and not to them.
The Holy Spirit will give us the power to live the way God wants us to live. And He will continue to teach us.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Me at My Workstation
Just a few pictures of me at my workstation at the office. Before, I had a closet for an office now I actually have a smaller space if that is possible. :-)
Anyways, here are some pictures of me at the office.
Anyways, here are some pictures of me at the office.
Pictures from Sunday - Our Farewell Service
Here are a few pictures from this past Sunday from our Farewell Service At Crosslight. We miss everyone so much. We love our family and friends from Crosslight. Hopefully, we will see you soon.
Blog Version of Our Thank You/Update Letter
This the blog version of our letters we just sent out to all of our partners/supporters. We can not begin to tell you how appreciative we are of all of you who are sacrificing and partnering with us in our internship here in Washington, DC. We love you all! Thank you!
May 29, 2007
Dear Partners
Thank you so much for your support and generosity as we are about to take this next step in our journey.
We are very excited about what God is going to do through us as we begin this internship at National Community Church in Washington DC.
We moved all of our stuff into our new house at 714 10th St. on May 12. We know that as we continue to unpack and get settled that it will feel more like home. We hope you come visit us once we get settled in!
We wanted to give you an update on where we stand with raising our support. We have reached our goal thanks to you, our family, friends and partners in ministry.
Our monthly income:
• $1,000 – stipend from National Community Church
• $1,250 – support from the Potomac District
• $850 – support from Crosslight
• $225 – support from family and friends
As you begin to send in your monthly tax-deductible support through National Community Church, please make checks payable to NCC or National Community Church. It is important to write “CPIR-Jarrell” in the memo line of your check to be sure the money is routed correctly.
Our official start date at NCC is Tuesday, May 29. We will hit the ground running with the Buzz Conference, a conference for church leaders from all around the United States. The conference challenges them to create buzz within their churches and throughout their communities.
This month has been both a difficult and exciting one. Difficult as we leave our Crosslight family after six years. While we know that we will remain connected to them, it is hard to leave. At the same time, we are very excited about the challenges and various opportunities that our position at NCC will bring. Please pray for us as we continue to transition from Richmond to Washington, DC.
We feel so blessed that you are partnering with us in this exciting opportunity. Thanks for your love and support.
In Christ,
Chris & Lora Jarrell
May 29, 2007
Dear Partners
Thank you so much for your support and generosity as we are about to take this next step in our journey.
We are very excited about what God is going to do through us as we begin this internship at National Community Church in Washington DC.
We moved all of our stuff into our new house at 714 10th St. on May 12. We know that as we continue to unpack and get settled that it will feel more like home. We hope you come visit us once we get settled in!
We wanted to give you an update on where we stand with raising our support. We have reached our goal thanks to you, our family, friends and partners in ministry.
Our monthly income:
• $1,000 – stipend from National Community Church
• $1,250 – support from the Potomac District
• $850 – support from Crosslight
• $225 – support from family and friends
As you begin to send in your monthly tax-deductible support through National Community Church, please make checks payable to NCC or National Community Church. It is important to write “CPIR-Jarrell” in the memo line of your check to be sure the money is routed correctly.
Our official start date at NCC is Tuesday, May 29. We will hit the ground running with the Buzz Conference, a conference for church leaders from all around the United States. The conference challenges them to create buzz within their churches and throughout their communities.
This month has been both a difficult and exciting one. Difficult as we leave our Crosslight family after six years. While we know that we will remain connected to them, it is hard to leave. At the same time, we are very excited about the challenges and various opportunities that our position at NCC will bring. Please pray for us as we continue to transition from Richmond to Washington, DC.
We feel so blessed that you are partnering with us in this exciting opportunity. Thanks for your love and support.
In Christ,
Chris & Lora Jarrell
Daily Caffeination 05/30/07
Our Helper
“And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever.”—John 14:16
In the Upper Room, on the night Jesus was betrayed, the disciples were upset and discouraged by what He had been telling them about His impending betrayal and crucifixion. So Jesus shared some words of encouragement with them. He told them about the Holy Spirit for the first time:
If you love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you. (John 14:15–18)
I am certain that those words of Jesus brought comfort to their hearts. He was saying to His disciples, “I am not going to leave you comfortless. I am not going to leave you without help. I will ask the Father, and He will send someone alongside to help you.”
During the days that Jesus walked the earth, He was always there for His people. They could reach out and touch Him. If they had a question, they could ask Him. He always had time for His own. They could get close to Him.
Then He told His disciples (and essentially all followers of Jesus to this day) that He would guide them and lead them in an entirely new way: through the Holy Spirit. So as Christians, we know that the Holy Spirit is actively involved in our lives. He is the Helper Jesus has given us.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
“And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever.”—John 14:16
In the Upper Room, on the night Jesus was betrayed, the disciples were upset and discouraged by what He had been telling them about His impending betrayal and crucifixion. So Jesus shared some words of encouragement with them. He told them about the Holy Spirit for the first time:
If you love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you. (John 14:15–18)
I am certain that those words of Jesus brought comfort to their hearts. He was saying to His disciples, “I am not going to leave you comfortless. I am not going to leave you without help. I will ask the Father, and He will send someone alongside to help you.”
During the days that Jesus walked the earth, He was always there for His people. They could reach out and touch Him. If they had a question, they could ask Him. He always had time for His own. They could get close to Him.
Then He told His disciples (and essentially all followers of Jesus to this day) that He would guide them and lead them in an entirely new way: through the Holy Spirit. So as Christians, we know that the Holy Spirit is actively involved in our lives. He is the Helper Jesus has given us.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Ending My First Day
Wow, today went by very quickly! Right now, I am sitting at my cubicle waiting for Lora to come by to pick me up, so I though would just post a quick blog.
I experienced my first Big Idea meeting with the staff of NCC, as well as experiencing my first Buzz Conference planning meeting. I cannot believe the Buzz Conference is one month away. Sign-up quickly you are plan on attending, the conference is almost at capacity.
I also went over policy and procedure stuff with Pastor Joel. I found out I will be doing the point pastoring at the Ebenezers location on Saturday night, this is way cool.
All in all it was a good day.
I experienced my first Big Idea meeting with the staff of NCC, as well as experiencing my first Buzz Conference planning meeting. I cannot believe the Buzz Conference is one month away. Sign-up quickly you are plan on attending, the conference is almost at capacity.
I also went over policy and procedure stuff with Pastor Joel. I found out I will be doing the point pastoring at the Ebenezers location on Saturday night, this is way cool.
All in all it was a good day.
Official Start Day
Well, Lora and I have been officially in Washington, DC since Sunday afternoon. We got a whole lot done around the house yesterday, getting boxes unpacked and some of our rooms set up. We have our guest room ready to go for any guests who want to come by and crash.
Today, I offically start at NCC. I can't believe this day is actually here. This is the next step in our journey. This is actually a dream come true. Yes it was extremely hard leaving Crosslight and saying goodbyes on Sunday, however it now time to move in God's will and plan for our life. I am looking forward to hitting the ground rolling and diving into the culture and life of NCC. I will be heading into the office at 8:00 this morning to begin this great adventure.
Please pray for us today. Lora begins her time back her office full time and I officially begin at NCC today.
Again, thank you for all of your love and support. We value each one of you.
Today, I offically start at NCC. I can't believe this day is actually here. This is the next step in our journey. This is actually a dream come true. Yes it was extremely hard leaving Crosslight and saying goodbyes on Sunday, however it now time to move in God's will and plan for our life. I am looking forward to hitting the ground rolling and diving into the culture and life of NCC. I will be heading into the office at 8:00 this morning to begin this great adventure.
Please pray for us today. Lora begins her time back her office full time and I officially begin at NCC today.
Again, thank you for all of your love and support. We value each one of you.
Daily Caffeination 05/29/07
God’s Royal Seal
In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise.—Ephesians 1:13
What does the Bible mean when it says that we are sealed with the Holy Spirit? In the apostle Paul’s day, when goods were shipped from one place to another, they would be stamped with a wax seal, imprinted with the signet ring of the owner. This was a unique mark of ownership. People could look at the crate, see its wax seal, and know they had better not open it.
The same was true with a document from a king. It would be sealed in wax and imprinted with the royal seal. People knew if they opened it and were not the intended recipient, they would be endangering their very lives.
In the same way, God has put His royal seal on us: “Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee” (2 Corinthians 1:21–22). The seal is the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts and lives. Upon our conversion, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit.
Let’s say that a thief wanted to steal a briefcase. Then he notices a nametag on it, bearing the name of a famous boxer. Most likely, the thief wouldn’t steal that briefcase. Why? He would be afraid of what would happen. He doesn’t want to suffer bodily harm.
The devil wants to come and destroy us as Christians. He wants to wreak havoc in our lives. But he sees our ID tag: “Owned by Jesus Christ. Sealed and insured by the Holy Spirit.” So he backs off, because we belong to Jesus Christ.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise.—Ephesians 1:13
What does the Bible mean when it says that we are sealed with the Holy Spirit? In the apostle Paul’s day, when goods were shipped from one place to another, they would be stamped with a wax seal, imprinted with the signet ring of the owner. This was a unique mark of ownership. People could look at the crate, see its wax seal, and know they had better not open it.
The same was true with a document from a king. It would be sealed in wax and imprinted with the royal seal. People knew if they opened it and were not the intended recipient, they would be endangering their very lives.
In the same way, God has put His royal seal on us: “Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee” (2 Corinthians 1:21–22). The seal is the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts and lives. Upon our conversion, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit.
Let’s say that a thief wanted to steal a briefcase. Then he notices a nametag on it, bearing the name of a famous boxer. Most likely, the thief wouldn’t steal that briefcase. Why? He would be afraid of what would happen. He doesn’t want to suffer bodily harm.
The devil wants to come and destroy us as Christians. He wants to wreak havoc in our lives. But he sees our ID tag: “Owned by Jesus Christ. Sealed and insured by the Holy Spirit.” So he backs off, because we belong to Jesus Christ.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Monday, May 28, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/28/07
Letting the Holy Spirit Work
“And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.”—John 16:8
Why has the Spirit come into this world? What does God’s Holy Spirit want to do in the life of the unbeliever? The Holy Spirit is very involved in the actual work of conversion. You see, before we were Christians, it was the Holy Spirit who convicted us of our sin (see John 16:8). Another way to translate the word “convict” in John 16:8 is “convince.”
Notice this verse doesn’t say He will convict the unbeliever of a specific sin. Rather, He wants to convince him or her of sin in general, the root cause of all sins.
Now we can try to produce in someone a sense of guilt and wrongdoing. In an effort to “help” the conversion process along, we want to make them feel guilty or to feel really bad about something. Mothers seem to have an unusual ability in this area. But only the Holy Spirit can effectively produce a guilt that will bring a person to their senses.
Sometimes we get in the way of conversion. We get impatient, or we try to assist the Spirit. We can be telling someone about the Lord, maybe a friend or a coworker or a family member, and as they are getting interested and asking questions, we see they are getting closer. So we start trying to convert that person in our own strength. We try to complete the transaction when the Spirit is still working.
The best thing we can do after we have shared the Word of God with someone is to pray that it takes root. We should just do our part and leave it in the hands of God. We don’t need to force the issue. He will convince a person. Let God’s Spirit do His work.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
“And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.”—John 16:8
Why has the Spirit come into this world? What does God’s Holy Spirit want to do in the life of the unbeliever? The Holy Spirit is very involved in the actual work of conversion. You see, before we were Christians, it was the Holy Spirit who convicted us of our sin (see John 16:8). Another way to translate the word “convict” in John 16:8 is “convince.”
Notice this verse doesn’t say He will convict the unbeliever of a specific sin. Rather, He wants to convince him or her of sin in general, the root cause of all sins.
Now we can try to produce in someone a sense of guilt and wrongdoing. In an effort to “help” the conversion process along, we want to make them feel guilty or to feel really bad about something. Mothers seem to have an unusual ability in this area. But only the Holy Spirit can effectively produce a guilt that will bring a person to their senses.
Sometimes we get in the way of conversion. We get impatient, or we try to assist the Spirit. We can be telling someone about the Lord, maybe a friend or a coworker or a family member, and as they are getting interested and asking questions, we see they are getting closer. So we start trying to convert that person in our own strength. We try to complete the transaction when the Spirit is still working.
The best thing we can do after we have shared the Word of God with someone is to pray that it takes root. We should just do our part and leave it in the hands of God. We don’t need to force the issue. He will convince a person. Let God’s Spirit do His work.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Well Today Is Here...
Today, may be one of the hardest days for Lora and me. This morning is farewell service at Crosslight Assembly of God, a church we have been at for exactly 6 years. It is really hard to say bye to a loving church family, "kids" and friends. We are going to miss them so much.
Over the last six years we have been blessed with great memories and fun times, and yes even some challenging times along the way. When you do life with others for any length of time is hard to leave those people. You invest time with them and pray and for those people you are with you become very connected to them and they become a huge part of your life and not just your ministry. I value each and every person we have built a relationship with over these last six years and I know we will continue to connected to our family Crosslight, however I will miss seeing them every week, I will miss the hugs and the handshakes, I will miss the love and support, I will miss being each person and doing life with them.
I have been a part of two wonderful churches through my years in ministry and it doesn't get any easier to say goodbye or "see you later". You become so invested into one another's lives it is hard to disconnect.
Please pray for Lora and me during this tough emotional day that we have ahead of us. We love each and every person at Crosslight.
Over the last six years we have been blessed with great memories and fun times, and yes even some challenging times along the way. When you do life with others for any length of time is hard to leave those people. You invest time with them and pray and for those people you are with you become very connected to them and they become a huge part of your life and not just your ministry. I value each and every person we have built a relationship with over these last six years and I know we will continue to connected to our family Crosslight, however I will miss seeing them every week, I will miss the hugs and the handshakes, I will miss the love and support, I will miss being each person and doing life with them.
I have been a part of two wonderful churches through my years in ministry and it doesn't get any easier to say goodbye or "see you later". You become so invested into one another's lives it is hard to disconnect.
Please pray for Lora and me during this tough emotional day that we have ahead of us. We love each and every person at Crosslight.
Daily Caffeination 05/27/07
The Greatest Test
I know, my God, that You test the heart and are pleased with integrity. - 1 Chronicles 29:17a
God tests His children to know what is in their hearts. God's desire for each of His children is to walk in relationship with Him, to uphold His righteousness and integrity. It is a high calling that we will fail to achieve without complete dependence on Him.
The greatest tests come not in great adversities, but in great prosperity. For it is in prosperity that we begin to lose the sensitivity to sin in our lives. Adversity motivates us to righteousness out of a desire to see our adversity changed. Prosperity fails to provide this motivation for obedience. We fall into a satisfaction and confidence in life that is based on our prosperity rather than on God.
Hezekiah was a great godly king. He was a faithful, God-honoring king most of his life, but toward the end he became proud. God wanted to find out if he would still honor Him and recognize His blessings in his life. He failed the test when God sent an envoy to his palace to inquire about a miracle that God performed on behalf of Hezekiah. The test was designed to find out if Hezekiah would publicly acknowledge the miracle performed on his behalf.
But when envoys were sent by the rulers of Babylon to ask him about the miraculous sign that had occurred in the land, God left him to test him and to know everything that was in his heart (2 Chronicle 32:31).
Hezekiah's failure resulted in his children failing to carry on as rulers of Israel, and the nation would eventually be taken over by Babylon.
The lesson of Hezekiah is clear. If we are to remain faithful to our Lord, we must remain steadfast in our obedience to Him. Prosperity can be our greatest test. Ask the Lord to give you the grace to be a faithful follower during times of prosperity.
I know, my God, that You test the heart and are pleased with integrity. - 1 Chronicles 29:17a
God tests His children to know what is in their hearts. God's desire for each of His children is to walk in relationship with Him, to uphold His righteousness and integrity. It is a high calling that we will fail to achieve without complete dependence on Him.
The greatest tests come not in great adversities, but in great prosperity. For it is in prosperity that we begin to lose the sensitivity to sin in our lives. Adversity motivates us to righteousness out of a desire to see our adversity changed. Prosperity fails to provide this motivation for obedience. We fall into a satisfaction and confidence in life that is based on our prosperity rather than on God.
Hezekiah was a great godly king. He was a faithful, God-honoring king most of his life, but toward the end he became proud. God wanted to find out if he would still honor Him and recognize His blessings in his life. He failed the test when God sent an envoy to his palace to inquire about a miracle that God performed on behalf of Hezekiah. The test was designed to find out if Hezekiah would publicly acknowledge the miracle performed on his behalf.
But when envoys were sent by the rulers of Babylon to ask him about the miraculous sign that had occurred in the land, God left him to test him and to know everything that was in his heart (2 Chronicle 32:31).
Hezekiah's failure resulted in his children failing to carry on as rulers of Israel, and the nation would eventually be taken over by Babylon.
The lesson of Hezekiah is clear. If we are to remain faithful to our Lord, we must remain steadfast in our obedience to Him. Prosperity can be our greatest test. Ask the Lord to give you the grace to be a faithful follower during times of prosperity.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/26/07
God's Preparation for Moving Out
In this way the man grew exceedingly prosperous and came to own large flocks, and maidservants and menservants, and camels and donkeys. - Genesis 30:43
Jacob left his homeland after suffering a broken relationship with Esau for stealing the family blessing. He went to work for his uncle Laban where he stayed for 20 years. It came time for him to leave, but he had no physical assets to show for those years under Laban. Laban had taken advantage of his nephew in every way. (In some ways, Jacob was reaping the seed he had sown his entire life as a manipulator and controller.) Nevertheless, God's hand was on Jacob, and He had plans to prosper him. However, Jacob had one problem - he had no resources of his own. For Jacob to launch out on his own, he would need resources. In those days, resources often meant large flocks of animals. God gave Jacob a dream that resulted in a strategy for creating wealth by multiplying his sheep. Even though Laban sought to thwart Jacob's efforts, God overcame the evil in Laban to allow Jacob to prosper.
There are many important lessons for us in this story. First, when God decides it is time to move you into a larger place of His calling, He has the ability to provide the resources you need to support the call. God gave Jacob a dream that resulted in a strategy never used before to build wealth. It was totally from God's hand. It was creative and new. God called Jacob to move out after he had demonstrated his faithfulness in 20 years of serving Laban. He learned to live under authority and served Laban faithfully, even though he knew he was being taken advantage of.
God will do the same for you and me. However, a word of caution: Be sure the strategy is born from above, and not from self-effort. The difficulty for most of us workplace believers is to learn the difference between the strategies born of God versus the strategy of self-effort.
In this way the man grew exceedingly prosperous and came to own large flocks, and maidservants and menservants, and camels and donkeys. - Genesis 30:43
Jacob left his homeland after suffering a broken relationship with Esau for stealing the family blessing. He went to work for his uncle Laban where he stayed for 20 years. It came time for him to leave, but he had no physical assets to show for those years under Laban. Laban had taken advantage of his nephew in every way. (In some ways, Jacob was reaping the seed he had sown his entire life as a manipulator and controller.) Nevertheless, God's hand was on Jacob, and He had plans to prosper him. However, Jacob had one problem - he had no resources of his own. For Jacob to launch out on his own, he would need resources. In those days, resources often meant large flocks of animals. God gave Jacob a dream that resulted in a strategy for creating wealth by multiplying his sheep. Even though Laban sought to thwart Jacob's efforts, God overcame the evil in Laban to allow Jacob to prosper.
There are many important lessons for us in this story. First, when God decides it is time to move you into a larger place of His calling, He has the ability to provide the resources you need to support the call. God gave Jacob a dream that resulted in a strategy never used before to build wealth. It was totally from God's hand. It was creative and new. God called Jacob to move out after he had demonstrated his faithfulness in 20 years of serving Laban. He learned to live under authority and served Laban faithfully, even though he knew he was being taken advantage of.
God will do the same for you and me. However, a word of caution: Be sure the strategy is born from above, and not from self-effort. The difficulty for most of us workplace believers is to learn the difference between the strategies born of God versus the strategy of self-effort.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Qucik Update
Well here is quick update. We are currently in Chester, VA (Richmond area), finishing up stuff around the house here for our renters to move in, cleaning, painting and tomorrow mowing and cleaning the carpet.
We have also been staying with a wonderful family from Crosslight, the Stillions. They are amazing and loving hosts even with our whirlwind of activities. We are so thankful for their friendship and support.
This Sunday we have our farewell service at Crosslight followed by a cookout. I am not looking forward to it, it definitly going to be very emotional for us. Pastor Mike and I are tag-teaming a message on Sunday as well. I am extremly thankful for my Crosslight family and for Pastor Mike for their love and support. They have truly been a huge help to us and very supportive of our transition.
After the events on Sunday, Lora and I will get the dogs and head up to our new home in Washington, DC and begin the next chapter in our exciting journey. While I am going to miss my family and friends here in the Chester area, we are excited about the great opportunity God is bring our way in the Washington, DC area as well as National Community Church. I believe this is going to be a huge and positive experience in our life that I am going to value every single moment of as I begin this two year internship and even beyond.
I am looking forward to meeting new friends and working with an awesome staff at NCC. It is my prayer that I would serve them well and that I would add value to the ministry of NCC. I really cherish this opportunity and will not take it for granted.
We have also been staying with a wonderful family from Crosslight, the Stillions. They are amazing and loving hosts even with our whirlwind of activities. We are so thankful for their friendship and support.
This Sunday we have our farewell service at Crosslight followed by a cookout. I am not looking forward to it, it definitly going to be very emotional for us. Pastor Mike and I are tag-teaming a message on Sunday as well. I am extremly thankful for my Crosslight family and for Pastor Mike for their love and support. They have truly been a huge help to us and very supportive of our transition.
After the events on Sunday, Lora and I will get the dogs and head up to our new home in Washington, DC and begin the next chapter in our exciting journey. While I am going to miss my family and friends here in the Chester area, we are excited about the great opportunity God is bring our way in the Washington, DC area as well as National Community Church. I believe this is going to be a huge and positive experience in our life that I am going to value every single moment of as I begin this two year internship and even beyond.
I am looking forward to meeting new friends and working with an awesome staff at NCC. It is my prayer that I would serve them well and that I would add value to the ministry of NCC. I really cherish this opportunity and will not take it for granted.
Daily Caffeination 05/25/07
Our Back-up Plan
Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. —Jude 21
When police officers are in trouble, what do they do? They call for backup. That is what believers need to do as well. When we are being hassled or tempted, we need to call for backup. We are to stand strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
James 4:7 says, “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” Notice it doesn’t say that we are to submit to God and carry on extended conversations with the devil. We want to keep our distance from the enemy. Therefore, we must be careful not to yield to him.
Disobedient and persistent waywardness provides the enemy a foothold from which he can attack and influence the Christian. So flee temptation and don’t leave a forwarding address. Keep your distance from the things that could drag you down.
We must learn from the example of the Israelites who, in spite of their privileges and exposure to miracles, did not keep themselves in the love of God. As a result, they faced judgment.
We must learn from the example of the fallen angels who, even though they once worshiped God in heaven, rebelled against Him and became demons in hell.
We must learn from the example of the people living in Sodom and Gomorrah who, in spite of the fact that they were exposed to the preaching and ministry of Abraham, Lot, and even Melchizedek, they rebelled against God.
These all failed to keep themselves in the love of God. So let’s make sure we are taking every step to do that.
Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. —Jude 21
When police officers are in trouble, what do they do? They call for backup. That is what believers need to do as well. When we are being hassled or tempted, we need to call for backup. We are to stand strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
James 4:7 says, “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” Notice it doesn’t say that we are to submit to God and carry on extended conversations with the devil. We want to keep our distance from the enemy. Therefore, we must be careful not to yield to him.
Disobedient and persistent waywardness provides the enemy a foothold from which he can attack and influence the Christian. So flee temptation and don’t leave a forwarding address. Keep your distance from the things that could drag you down.
We must learn from the example of the Israelites who, in spite of their privileges and exposure to miracles, did not keep themselves in the love of God. As a result, they faced judgment.
We must learn from the example of the fallen angels who, even though they once worshiped God in heaven, rebelled against Him and became demons in hell.
We must learn from the example of the people living in Sodom and Gomorrah who, in spite of the fact that they were exposed to the preaching and ministry of Abraham, Lot, and even Melchizedek, they rebelled against God.
These all failed to keep themselves in the love of God. So let’s make sure we are taking every step to do that.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/23/07
The Result of Rebellion
And I remind you of the angels who did not stay within the limits of authority God gave them but left the place where they belonged. God has kept them securely chained in prisons of darkness, waiting for the great day of judgment.—Jude 6
Sometimes the question arises as to how a God of love could create someone as wicked as Lucifer. The answer is that God did not create Lucifer as we know Him today. In fact, he was once a high-ranking angel and, according to Ezekiel 28, was the model of perfection, full of wisdom and beauty.
So what happened? What was his specific sin? It was that his heart became prideful because of his incredible beauty. He was not satisfied with worshiping God. He instead wanted to be worshiped. So Lucifer, once a high-ranking, beautiful angel of God, lost his exalted position in heaven. Lucifer became Satan when he fell to the earth. Lucifer means “star of the morning,” which he once was. Satan means accuser, which he now is. And when Satan fell, he took one-third of the angels with him, who are now in rebellion against God.
It is amazing to think that angels turned against God. After all, apart from humanity, who has greater privilege than angels? Certainly they have been given a wonderful privilege to have access to the very throne of God and worship before Him. Yet there was a major angelic rebellion.
Here is the warning for us today: Even the angels are facing judgment because they rebelled against God, reminding us of the danger of thinking we can use the grace of God as a license for sin. The Bible cautions us that just because we know what is right and have been taught in the truth does not mean that we are incapable of rebelling against God. The angels rebelled and faced God’s judgment. And if we rebel, we will face His judgment as well.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
And I remind you of the angels who did not stay within the limits of authority God gave them but left the place where they belonged. God has kept them securely chained in prisons of darkness, waiting for the great day of judgment.—Jude 6
Sometimes the question arises as to how a God of love could create someone as wicked as Lucifer. The answer is that God did not create Lucifer as we know Him today. In fact, he was once a high-ranking angel and, according to Ezekiel 28, was the model of perfection, full of wisdom and beauty.
So what happened? What was his specific sin? It was that his heart became prideful because of his incredible beauty. He was not satisfied with worshiping God. He instead wanted to be worshiped. So Lucifer, once a high-ranking, beautiful angel of God, lost his exalted position in heaven. Lucifer became Satan when he fell to the earth. Lucifer means “star of the morning,” which he once was. Satan means accuser, which he now is. And when Satan fell, he took one-third of the angels with him, who are now in rebellion against God.
It is amazing to think that angels turned against God. After all, apart from humanity, who has greater privilege than angels? Certainly they have been given a wonderful privilege to have access to the very throne of God and worship before Him. Yet there was a major angelic rebellion.
Here is the warning for us today: Even the angels are facing judgment because they rebelled against God, reminding us of the danger of thinking we can use the grace of God as a license for sin. The Bible cautions us that just because we know what is right and have been taught in the truth does not mean that we are incapable of rebelling against God. The angels rebelled and faced God’s judgment. And if we rebel, we will face His judgment as well.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
I Went Golfing for Missions Today
Okay, here is the deal I have never golfed before. Let me be more specific other than hold a putt putt putter, I have really never held a golf club. Well today I lost my golfing virginity. Today, was the very first time I went golfing and it was for missions.
I was invited by the team from NCC (National Community Church) after trying to convince Joel Schmidgall that I have never played golf a day in my life, he still wanted to come out and play. So, being the athlete and the ultra competitor that I am I went out and gave it shot. Also, it was for missions.
So, how did I do? I stunk it up! I hacked! Most of my drives were less than 30 feet! However, I did have one nice drive on a par 3 that landed really nicely on the green 15 feet from the hole. I had few good putts but that is about it. I stunk it up on the course. Good thing it was captain's choice best ball tournament. That took a whole lot of pressure off of me from have to do really well. Will I do it again? Sure I will, for missions. I will practice first though.
Is there anyone out there who want teach me how to play golf? :-)
All in all I had a fun day and I got really burned and it was all done for missions.
I was invited by the team from NCC (National Community Church) after trying to convince Joel Schmidgall that I have never played golf a day in my life, he still wanted to come out and play. So, being the athlete and the ultra competitor that I am I went out and gave it shot. Also, it was for missions.
So, how did I do? I stunk it up! I hacked! Most of my drives were less than 30 feet! However, I did have one nice drive on a par 3 that landed really nicely on the green 15 feet from the hole. I had few good putts but that is about it. I stunk it up on the course. Good thing it was captain's choice best ball tournament. That took a whole lot of pressure off of me from have to do really well. Will I do it again? Sure I will, for missions. I will practice first though.
Is there anyone out there who want teach me how to play golf? :-)
All in all I had a fun day and I got really burned and it was all done for missions.
Daily Caffeination 05/22/07
The Importance of Doctrine
Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.—1 Timothy 4:16
Theology and doctrine are not trivial matters. Yet there are people today who set aside biblical teaching and say, “I just want to experience God. I don’t want to argue over doctrine. I just want to love Jesus.” That is a nice sentiment, but it is also a very dangerous one. It means they might end up loving the wrong Jesus. They might end up believing the wrong doctrine.
That is why the Bible exhorts us again and again to have our lives and doctrine in order. As Paul instructed Timothy, “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you” (1 Timothy 4:16). One of the reasons so many people are falling prey to false teachings today is that they do not have their doctrine in order.
I once heard a statistic that 80 percent of people who are pulled into various cult groups were once part of a church. That is not necessarily saying they were believers, but it is saying that these people had some church involvement at some point in their lives. If that statistic is correct, then it is alarming. It shows there are people who could have spent time in church, maybe a lot of time, but because they didn’t have their doctrine in order— they were led down the wrong road.
If you have your doctrine in order, if you know what the Bible teaches, then you will be able to refute false teaching and defend your faith. It’s what Jude means by exhorting Christians to “contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 4).
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.—1 Timothy 4:16
Theology and doctrine are not trivial matters. Yet there are people today who set aside biblical teaching and say, “I just want to experience God. I don’t want to argue over doctrine. I just want to love Jesus.” That is a nice sentiment, but it is also a very dangerous one. It means they might end up loving the wrong Jesus. They might end up believing the wrong doctrine.
That is why the Bible exhorts us again and again to have our lives and doctrine in order. As Paul instructed Timothy, “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you” (1 Timothy 4:16). One of the reasons so many people are falling prey to false teachings today is that they do not have their doctrine in order.
I once heard a statistic that 80 percent of people who are pulled into various cult groups were once part of a church. That is not necessarily saying they were believers, but it is saying that these people had some church involvement at some point in their lives. If that statistic is correct, then it is alarming. It shows there are people who could have spent time in church, maybe a lot of time, but because they didn’t have their doctrine in order— they were led down the wrong road.
If you have your doctrine in order, if you know what the Bible teaches, then you will be able to refute false teaching and defend your faith. It’s what Jude means by exhorting Christians to “contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 4).
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Monday, May 21, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/21/07
Becoming Aware of God
..."Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it." - Genesis 28:16
Jacob was forced to flee his family after receiving the blessing of God from his father, Isaac. He ran as a result of his broken relationship with his brother, Esau, who threatened to kill him. He was alone after leaving his family and was sleeping in the wilderness area at Bethel. It is here that Jacob encountered God personally for the very first time. He had a dream in which Heaven was opened up to him. The Lord spoke to him there and gave him a promise to give him the very land on which he was lying.
This encounter with God made him realize that God was in this place, even though he had not been aware of it. God had to remove Jacob from all that was of comfort to him in order to reveal Himself to Jacob. What began as a crisis that forced him to be removed from his family and friends led to an encounter with the living God and a fresh vision of God's purposes for his life.
How often we go about our daily routine and fail to recognize that God is in the place where we are. God had to bring Jacob to a place of separation from his old life and remove all his worldly possessions. He was alone with God at Bethel; nothing else could distract him from an encounter that would change his life.
God often must do radical things in the life of the servant in whom He has special plans: separation from family, removal of physical and emotional resources, an encounter with God. These are often the hallmarks of ownership by God that build a vision into a life.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
..."Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it." - Genesis 28:16
Jacob was forced to flee his family after receiving the blessing of God from his father, Isaac. He ran as a result of his broken relationship with his brother, Esau, who threatened to kill him. He was alone after leaving his family and was sleeping in the wilderness area at Bethel. It is here that Jacob encountered God personally for the very first time. He had a dream in which Heaven was opened up to him. The Lord spoke to him there and gave him a promise to give him the very land on which he was lying.
This encounter with God made him realize that God was in this place, even though he had not been aware of it. God had to remove Jacob from all that was of comfort to him in order to reveal Himself to Jacob. What began as a crisis that forced him to be removed from his family and friends led to an encounter with the living God and a fresh vision of God's purposes for his life.
How often we go about our daily routine and fail to recognize that God is in the place where we are. God had to bring Jacob to a place of separation from his old life and remove all his worldly possessions. He was alone with God at Bethel; nothing else could distract him from an encounter that would change his life.
God often must do radical things in the life of the servant in whom He has special plans: separation from family, removal of physical and emotional resources, an encounter with God. These are often the hallmarks of ownership by God that build a vision into a life.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/20/07
Becoming a Mighty Man
All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their leader. About four hundred men were with him. - 1 Samuel 22:2
Have you ever felt that you could accomplish a whole lot more if you had more talented people around you? Perhaps you are in an office and think that some of your fellow workers don't quite measure up. Imagine what David must have thought in the years following his anointing by the prophet Samuel as the next king of Israel. He spent the next many years running from King Saul. Now God was beginning to bring men to support David. But what kind of men? The down-and-out. God gave David not the elite or the sophisticated; He gave him those who were in debt and discontented with life. David turned those men into the best fighting men of their day. In fact, David never lost a battle during his entire reign as king of Israel-quite a feat for a bunch of no-name, lowlifes! Some of those men became an elite group known as David's Mighty Men. These were the elite of the elite, the Navy Seals, the Few Good Men, the Green Berets. Whatever you call them, they were exceptional warriors.
Jesus took a few men who weren't exactly the cream of the crop either. He built His life into these men, which resulted in 12 men who turned the world upside down. Are you one of God's mighty men or women? Are you investing your life to build other mighty men or women? David and Jesus set the example of what can be done when we invest in others. God does extraordinary things through men who have an extraordinary God. Ask God to use your life to be a mighty man or woman for a cause greater than yourself. He delights in such prayers.
All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their leader. About four hundred men were with him. - 1 Samuel 22:2
Have you ever felt that you could accomplish a whole lot more if you had more talented people around you? Perhaps you are in an office and think that some of your fellow workers don't quite measure up. Imagine what David must have thought in the years following his anointing by the prophet Samuel as the next king of Israel. He spent the next many years running from King Saul. Now God was beginning to bring men to support David. But what kind of men? The down-and-out. God gave David not the elite or the sophisticated; He gave him those who were in debt and discontented with life. David turned those men into the best fighting men of their day. In fact, David never lost a battle during his entire reign as king of Israel-quite a feat for a bunch of no-name, lowlifes! Some of those men became an elite group known as David's Mighty Men. These were the elite of the elite, the Navy Seals, the Few Good Men, the Green Berets. Whatever you call them, they were exceptional warriors.
Jesus took a few men who weren't exactly the cream of the crop either. He built His life into these men, which resulted in 12 men who turned the world upside down. Are you one of God's mighty men or women? Are you investing your life to build other mighty men or women? David and Jesus set the example of what can be done when we invest in others. God does extraordinary things through men who have an extraordinary God. Ask God to use your life to be a mighty man or woman for a cause greater than yourself. He delights in such prayers.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
WOW!!! What a Birthday Celebration Tonight, With a Huge Surprise!
We just arrived back to the hotel room at 10:00 PM central time after my mom's 55th birthday celebration. All that I can say is WOW!!! What a night and there was a huge surprise.
The night began with appetizers, stuffed mushrooms and quiches, yummy. Also, reconnecting with family members and other friends we haven't seen in a long time, which was very nice.
After that we were beckoned into the main room to be seated. We first enjoyed the music of Karen and Amy Jones, check out previous post. The girls did a fabulous job with their performance. I know a great coffeehouse in Washington, DC where they could perform. Please go check out their music @ jonesgirlsmusic.
After their performance we were treated to some really delicious french onion soup (btw my favorite soup). Also had a chance to chat with my older brother, Max and his wife Connie.
Then next comes the huge surprise. My mom's favorite musical artist is Hal Ketchum. Well anyways, he did an hour and ten minute concert and a meet and greet afterwards signing CDs and taking pictures with people. I want to first say that I am not a country music fan and I honestly have never listened to Hal Ketchum before tonight. But I can say now that I am a big fan of not only of Hal Ketchum as a person but also of his music. Hal was a super nice guy and his music wasn't that country it had more of an acoustic bluesy sound to it. I really enjoyed.
Some of you may be wondering who Hal Ketchum is well here is his bio from his website.
The words that come to mind when one mentions the artist Hal Ketchum are soul, killer voice, handsome devil, integrity, talent, craftsman, artist, creativity, longevity, amazing songwriter, the list could go on and on forever. His talents are literally endless. His voice is still the best there is. Never missing a note, he amazes the producers he sings for every time, and amazes his fans show after show. Blazing on the scene in the early 90's Hal struck radio gold with his first single Small Town Saturday Night which shot to number one on the country charts. This caused Curb Records to come from LA to Nashville and set up shop. Mike Curb CEO and owner of Curb Records refers to Hal as his "cornerstone artist." Indeed he is. Hal's success continued with 15 top ten hits, proving he was here to stay, selling over four million records.
Hal also performs at the Grand Ole Opry on a regular basis.
He really did ana amazing job . My parents totally surprised all their guests by having him there to perform.
After the concert we had an amazing dinner. What did we have? Well let me tell you. We had salad, fresh carved prime rib, chicken in red wine sauce & tomatoes, herb roasted potatoes, green bean provencale, parsley-buttered carrots and finally top off with chocolate mousse cake with raspberries and creme.
It was definitly an amazing evening and I certainly had a fun time. It was very nice to be able to honor and celebrate my mom's birthday. I am really glad Lora and I made it down for this very special time and to spend it with our family.
Here are some pictures from tonight's event.
The night began with appetizers, stuffed mushrooms and quiches, yummy. Also, reconnecting with family members and other friends we haven't seen in a long time, which was very nice.
After that we were beckoned into the main room to be seated. We first enjoyed the music of Karen and Amy Jones, check out previous post. The girls did a fabulous job with their performance. I know a great coffeehouse in Washington, DC where they could perform. Please go check out their music @ jonesgirlsmusic.
After their performance we were treated to some really delicious french onion soup (btw my favorite soup). Also had a chance to chat with my older brother, Max and his wife Connie.
Then next comes the huge surprise. My mom's favorite musical artist is Hal Ketchum. Well anyways, he did an hour and ten minute concert and a meet and greet afterwards signing CDs and taking pictures with people. I want to first say that I am not a country music fan and I honestly have never listened to Hal Ketchum before tonight. But I can say now that I am a big fan of not only of Hal Ketchum as a person but also of his music. Hal was a super nice guy and his music wasn't that country it had more of an acoustic bluesy sound to it. I really enjoyed.
Some of you may be wondering who Hal Ketchum is well here is his bio from his website.
The words that come to mind when one mentions the artist Hal Ketchum are soul, killer voice, handsome devil, integrity, talent, craftsman, artist, creativity, longevity, amazing songwriter, the list could go on and on forever. His talents are literally endless. His voice is still the best there is. Never missing a note, he amazes the producers he sings for every time, and amazes his fans show after show. Blazing on the scene in the early 90's Hal struck radio gold with his first single Small Town Saturday Night which shot to number one on the country charts. This caused Curb Records to come from LA to Nashville and set up shop. Mike Curb CEO and owner of Curb Records refers to Hal as his "cornerstone artist." Indeed he is. Hal's success continued with 15 top ten hits, proving he was here to stay, selling over four million records.
Hal also performs at the Grand Ole Opry on a regular basis.
He really did ana amazing job . My parents totally surprised all their guests by having him there to perform.
After the concert we had an amazing dinner. What did we have? Well let me tell you. We had salad, fresh carved prime rib, chicken in red wine sauce & tomatoes, herb roasted potatoes, green bean provencale, parsley-buttered carrots and finally top off with chocolate mousse cake with raspberries and creme.
It was definitly an amazing evening and I certainly had a fun time. It was very nice to be able to honor and celebrate my mom's birthday. I am really glad Lora and I made it down for this very special time and to spend it with our family.
Here are some pictures from tonight's event.
My Parents
My mom rocking out to Hal Ketchum
My brother Max and me
This is by far was the biggest birthday bash that I have ever been to in my life! I am telling you, this thing was huge!
Is Your Church Anything Like This One?
I have always been a huge fan of British humor and comedies, however while the video is hilarious, I believe too many churches in are like this today. Is your church like the one in this video or have you had a church experience like this one?
Please enjoy...
Please enjoy...
New Music to Check Out
We are down here in Tullahoma, TN to celebrate my mom's 55th birthday. By the way, Happy Birthday Roni!!! Well anyways, her 2nd cousins, Karen and Amy Jones from Easton, PA came down to celebrate and to sing tonight at her party.
Karen and Amy Jones are acoustic based musicians with solid melodic vocals. I want to encourage you to go check them out. They are really good. They definitly have an Indigo Girls vibe to their sound, and I have been a long time fan of the Indigo Girls. I think their music is so raw and authentic. I am really looking forward to hearing them tonight perform live.
Check out their website @ JonesGirlsMusic or go to their Myspace page, you can hear their demos there.
Go and check them out.
Karen and Amy Jones are acoustic based musicians with solid melodic vocals. I want to encourage you to go check them out. They are really good. They definitly have an Indigo Girls vibe to their sound, and I have been a long time fan of the Indigo Girls. I think their music is so raw and authentic. I am really looking forward to hearing them tonight perform live.
Check out their website @ JonesGirlsMusic or go to their Myspace page, you can hear their demos there.
Go and check them out.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Frisco Patty Melt and A Chocolate Shake
I just had to share this. Lora and I arrived in Tennessee this afternoon and we were starving. Many of you who have read this blog for any length of time know that I am passionate about food. I love to eat. Well today we stopped at the Steak-N-Shake in Franklin/Murfreesboro, TN, for a quick bite to eat.
I had a great, unhealthy and tasty lunch of a Frisco (steakburger) patty melt on sourdough bread, fries and a huge chocolate milkshake. Can I get a big Mmmmmmmm?
That is an awesome lunch right there folks. I hope Washington, DC, gets a Steak-N-Shake. I can pray right? :-)
I had a great, unhealthy and tasty lunch of a Frisco (steakburger) patty melt on sourdough bread, fries and a huge chocolate milkshake. Can I get a big Mmmmmmmm?
That is an awesome lunch right there folks. I hope Washington, DC, gets a Steak-N-Shake. I can pray right? :-)
Transition Update
I am currently in Tullahoma, TN, for my mother's 55th birthday bash. I know it is right in the middle of our transition, however my dad has had this planned out for about six months now and they flew Lora and I down here to be a part of this celebration. It is really important to be here and be with our family and to honor my mom.
We flew down to Tennessee this morning and we fly back into BWI airport Sunday night, so this will be a quick trip that I am sure will go by very quickly. One thing that needs to be more important than ministry is family. As a pastor and a leader, I will not put ministry before family, because ministry is first before the family. This is one of my biggest values as a person, leader and a pastor. We cannot put work/ministry ahead of family.
Anyway, now to the transition update. We had our move into our new house last Saturday after packing the truck on Friday night. Saturday night we went back to Chester, VA, to stay with our good friends and a family at Crosslight, the Stillions. We attended service Sunday morning, our second to last Sunday at Crosslight. I am feeling a little emotional about that, it goes back to my whole family thing from above. The wonderful people at Crosslight have really become a family to us and we are going to miss them so much.
Monday through Wednesday, Lora and I cleaned and painted at our house in Chester and stayed with the Stillions and their little long-haired dachsund, Oscar.
Monday, I worked my last shift after ten years at Family Christian Stores, six years with the store in Chester. That was hard leaving and saying bye to my friends and an awesome manager at the store.
Tuesday, our YMCA family, 17 in all, took us out to eat at Carrabas. They gave us some very nice gifts and again it was an emotional time saying bye to our YMCA family that we really have gotten close to over the last year.
Wednesday night, we hung out with the youth at Crosslight as Rachel shared about not worrying. I just want to say how excited and happy I am about Rachel and Danny taking over the youth ministry from us. I believe they are going to do an awesome job.
Thursday morning we packed up the rest of our stuff at the house in Chester in a 10 foot truck and drove to our new house in Washington, DC. Lora's mom came over and helped Lora start unpacking the kitchen. I started unpacking the dining room. Our house is in such disarray, it is actually overwhelming right now with stuff everywhere in our house and no organization.
We spent our first night in our new house last night after finally slowing down and going to bed at 12:30 am, only to get at 4:30 am to go to BWI airport to fly to Tennessee.
Next week, we will be in DC Monday through Wednesday, to unpack and bring some order to the house before we head back to Chester for church on Wednesday night at Crosslight. We will be in Chester until Sunday afternoon before we head back up to DC to be there for good.
Next Sunday, May 27, will be our farewell service at Crosslight. I am not looking forward to that day, it is going to be very emotional and hard.
Then Tuesday, May 29, I officially begin my 2 year internship at National Community Church.
The next week will definitely be a whirlwind week. I know time will fly by, but I am going to try to cherish every moment I get to spend with my family and friends at the YMCA and Crosslight, as well as my family here in Tennessee.
That is it from here. I hope to hear from you all soon.
Thanks for all of your prayers and support.
We flew down to Tennessee this morning and we fly back into BWI airport Sunday night, so this will be a quick trip that I am sure will go by very quickly. One thing that needs to be more important than ministry is family. As a pastor and a leader, I will not put ministry before family, because ministry is first before the family. This is one of my biggest values as a person, leader and a pastor. We cannot put work/ministry ahead of family.
Anyway, now to the transition update. We had our move into our new house last Saturday after packing the truck on Friday night. Saturday night we went back to Chester, VA, to stay with our good friends and a family at Crosslight, the Stillions. We attended service Sunday morning, our second to last Sunday at Crosslight. I am feeling a little emotional about that, it goes back to my whole family thing from above. The wonderful people at Crosslight have really become a family to us and we are going to miss them so much.
Monday through Wednesday, Lora and I cleaned and painted at our house in Chester and stayed with the Stillions and their little long-haired dachsund, Oscar.
Monday, I worked my last shift after ten years at Family Christian Stores, six years with the store in Chester. That was hard leaving and saying bye to my friends and an awesome manager at the store.
Tuesday, our YMCA family, 17 in all, took us out to eat at Carrabas. They gave us some very nice gifts and again it was an emotional time saying bye to our YMCA family that we really have gotten close to over the last year.
Wednesday night, we hung out with the youth at Crosslight as Rachel shared about not worrying. I just want to say how excited and happy I am about Rachel and Danny taking over the youth ministry from us. I believe they are going to do an awesome job.
Thursday morning we packed up the rest of our stuff at the house in Chester in a 10 foot truck and drove to our new house in Washington, DC. Lora's mom came over and helped Lora start unpacking the kitchen. I started unpacking the dining room. Our house is in such disarray, it is actually overwhelming right now with stuff everywhere in our house and no organization.
We spent our first night in our new house last night after finally slowing down and going to bed at 12:30 am, only to get at 4:30 am to go to BWI airport to fly to Tennessee.
Next week, we will be in DC Monday through Wednesday, to unpack and bring some order to the house before we head back to Chester for church on Wednesday night at Crosslight. We will be in Chester until Sunday afternoon before we head back up to DC to be there for good.
Next Sunday, May 27, will be our farewell service at Crosslight. I am not looking forward to that day, it is going to be very emotional and hard.
Then Tuesday, May 29, I officially begin my 2 year internship at National Community Church.
The next week will definitely be a whirlwind week. I know time will fly by, but I am going to try to cherish every moment I get to spend with my family and friends at the YMCA and Crosslight, as well as my family here in Tennessee.
That is it from here. I hope to hear from you all soon.
Thanks for all of your prayers and support.
Daily Caffeination 05/18/07
Building and Defending
The leaders stationed themselves behind the people of Judah who were building the wall. The laborers carried on their work with one hand supporting their load and one hand holding a weapon.—Nehemiah 4:16–17
When God called Nehemiah, the cupbearer of King Artaxerxes, to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, Nehemiah was living in the lap of luxury. He was in a position of power and prestige.
But Nehemiah was stirred in his heart, because he knew that while he lived in comfort, his fellow Jews were basically living in ruin. The once-high walls of Jerusalem lay in rubble, burned-out and charred. God told Nehemiah to use his position of influence for Him. Nehemiah prayed and then went to the king and asked for permission to rebuild the walls. Permission was granted, and Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem and went about the task of getting the people to rebuild the wall.
At first, they weren’t all that interested, but eventually Nehemiah rallied the troops. Everyone began to work together. And as soon as the Israelites began to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, there was opposition.
It is a reminder to us that whenever God’s people say, “Let’s rise up and build,” the devil and his cohorts are going to say, “Let’s rise up and oppose.” One of the greatest challenges when we go into a community to hold a Harvest Crusade is not booking the venue or printing the materials or doing the other things that are so visible. The hardest thing is getting the churches to wake up to the need of getting the gospel out in their own community.
That is what Nehemiah had to do, and that is what we need to do. On one hand, we are to be building ourselves up in the faith. And on the other hand, we are to be contending for the faith. We build and defend, and it all goes together.
The leaders stationed themselves behind the people of Judah who were building the wall. The laborers carried on their work with one hand supporting their load and one hand holding a weapon.—Nehemiah 4:16–17
When God called Nehemiah, the cupbearer of King Artaxerxes, to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, Nehemiah was living in the lap of luxury. He was in a position of power and prestige.
But Nehemiah was stirred in his heart, because he knew that while he lived in comfort, his fellow Jews were basically living in ruin. The once-high walls of Jerusalem lay in rubble, burned-out and charred. God told Nehemiah to use his position of influence for Him. Nehemiah prayed and then went to the king and asked for permission to rebuild the walls. Permission was granted, and Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem and went about the task of getting the people to rebuild the wall.
At first, they weren’t all that interested, but eventually Nehemiah rallied the troops. Everyone began to work together. And as soon as the Israelites began to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, there was opposition.
It is a reminder to us that whenever God’s people say, “Let’s rise up and build,” the devil and his cohorts are going to say, “Let’s rise up and oppose.” One of the greatest challenges when we go into a community to hold a Harvest Crusade is not booking the venue or printing the materials or doing the other things that are so visible. The hardest thing is getting the churches to wake up to the need of getting the gospel out in their own community.
That is what Nehemiah had to do, and that is what we need to do. On one hand, we are to be building ourselves up in the faith. And on the other hand, we are to be contending for the faith. We build and defend, and it all goes together.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/17/07 - DC Live!!!
Contending with Care
Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.—Ephesians 4:15
I remember walking down Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki and seeing a man holding a big sign with red flames and the words, “The wages of sin is death.” He was yelling out to people, “God hates you! God is going to judge you! God is going to get you!” I watched as people passed by, intentionally turning away from him.
Finally, I walked up to him and said, “Excuse me, I have a question. I just wanted to say that while it is true that the wages of sin is death, as your placard says so boldly, it is also true that the rest of that verse says the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Why don’t you put that on the other side of your placard, and you could flip it around periodically? You could give them the whole message.”
The man then told me that I was going to hell. He was intent on delivering a certain degree of truth in a contentious way.
When we read in Jude 3 that we are to contend for the faith, it doesn’t mean that we are to assault with the truth. It doesn’t mean we are to bludgeon people with it. The word “contend” in this verse actually speaks of delivering the truth, but doing so in a loving manner. The Bible tells us to speak the truth in love, which means professing God’s truth in a loving way.
It is important to know your theology and to know what the Bible teaches. But it is also so very important to just love people. If we can find the balance of lovingly presenting truth, it will be a powerful combination.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.—Ephesians 4:15
I remember walking down Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki and seeing a man holding a big sign with red flames and the words, “The wages of sin is death.” He was yelling out to people, “God hates you! God is going to judge you! God is going to get you!” I watched as people passed by, intentionally turning away from him.
Finally, I walked up to him and said, “Excuse me, I have a question. I just wanted to say that while it is true that the wages of sin is death, as your placard says so boldly, it is also true that the rest of that verse says the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Why don’t you put that on the other side of your placard, and you could flip it around periodically? You could give them the whole message.”
The man then told me that I was going to hell. He was intent on delivering a certain degree of truth in a contentious way.
When we read in Jude 3 that we are to contend for the faith, it doesn’t mean that we are to assault with the truth. It doesn’t mean we are to bludgeon people with it. The word “contend” in this verse actually speaks of delivering the truth, but doing so in a loving manner. The Bible tells us to speak the truth in love, which means professing God’s truth in a loving way.
It is important to know your theology and to know what the Bible teaches. But it is also so very important to just love people. If we can find the balance of lovingly presenting truth, it will be a powerful combination.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Jerry Falwell Has Passed Away
I was shocked just to hear about Dr. Jerry Falwell passing away. I know many of his remarks of the years have been very controversal and even polarizing, especially within social context of what we are going through here America.
However, I believe Dr. Falwell was a man of God and he has done alot within Christiandom. One of his greatest acheivements I believe was starting Liberty University, a place where I have seen some om my "kids" attend over the years as well many people I know who are currently or will be attending over the year or so. I have seen many great men and women come out of Liberty University.
Again, I know people and yes even Christians who have had their issues with Dr. Falwell, but we must pray for Dr. Falwell's family, Thomas Road Baptist Church and students and faculty of Liberty University during this time.
Dr. Falwell right is dancing around the throne of God and praising Him with the angels.
However, I believe Dr. Falwell was a man of God and he has done alot within Christiandom. One of his greatest acheivements I believe was starting Liberty University, a place where I have seen some om my "kids" attend over the years as well many people I know who are currently or will be attending over the year or so. I have seen many great men and women come out of Liberty University.
Again, I know people and yes even Christians who have had their issues with Dr. Falwell, but we must pray for Dr. Falwell's family, Thomas Road Baptist Church and students and faculty of Liberty University during this time.
Dr. Falwell right is dancing around the throne of God and praising Him with the angels.
Daily Caffeination 05/15/07
Destruction by Deception
For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ.—Jude 4
Is it possible to preach and not be a true believer, or to even do miracles and not necessarily be saved? Absolutely.
Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ ” (Matthew 7:21–22).
Notice that Jesus said, “Many will come in that day” (emphasis mine). This reminds us there will be an abundance of false miracles in the last days. Many will say they have been doing miracles. Many will say they have been casting out demons, allegedly. But Jesus will say, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!” (Matthew 7:23). The worst thing imaginable is to spread wickedness under the veneer of true faith. Tragically, this does happen in the church today.
I wish that we could spot these people more easily. But Jude pointed out that they come in unnoticed (see Jude 4). That is the whole idea. Satan is a deceiver. And that is why on more than one occasion, the Bible compares him to a snake. Having been an avid collector of snakes as a kid, I know how easily they can get out of the tightest little spots and escape. In the same way, Satan sneaks into the church unnoticed.
False teachers come into the church secretly. And their numbers grow by preying on unsuspecting believers. Beware of false teachers. And be careful of those who say they have a message you won’t hear anywhere else.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ.—Jude 4
Is it possible to preach and not be a true believer, or to even do miracles and not necessarily be saved? Absolutely.
Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ ” (Matthew 7:21–22).
Notice that Jesus said, “Many will come in that day” (emphasis mine). This reminds us there will be an abundance of false miracles in the last days. Many will say they have been doing miracles. Many will say they have been casting out demons, allegedly. But Jesus will say, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!” (Matthew 7:23). The worst thing imaginable is to spread wickedness under the veneer of true faith. Tragically, this does happen in the church today.
I wish that we could spot these people more easily. But Jude pointed out that they come in unnoticed (see Jude 4). That is the whole idea. Satan is a deceiver. And that is why on more than one occasion, the Bible compares him to a snake. Having been an avid collector of snakes as a kid, I know how easily they can get out of the tightest little spots and escape. In the same way, Satan sneaks into the church unnoticed.
False teachers come into the church secretly. And their numbers grow by preying on unsuspecting believers. Beware of false teachers. And be careful of those who say they have a message you won’t hear anywhere else.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Monday, May 14, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/14/07
In Search of Biblical Literacy
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. . . . ”—Hosea 4:6
Whenever I am invited to speak somewhere, I can discern the biblical IQ of the group I’m addressing in the first few minutes of my message. I observe the way they track, the way they listen, what interests them, and what doesn’t interest them. I note how they will come alive when an illustration is rolled out. But as soon as I get back to the biblical text, they go into a daze, as if to say, Wake me when the next illustration or joke is coming.
This is because they have never learned to love the Bible. They have never developed a hunger for it. This is what I want my congregation—and all believers—to have. I want them to love the Word of God. We love worship at our services. We love having various artists coming in and sharing their music with us. We love all the other things we can do. But I believe the main event is the teaching and the preaching of the Word of God. That is what I want believers to care for.
Yet tragically, so many people in the church today are biblically illiterate. They don’t have a biblical worldview. I can’t tell you how many times I have gone to a church as a guest speaker and said, “Turn in your Bibles to . . . ” and no one has a Bible. When I will refer to certain biblical passages or a biblical story, they will look at me with blank expressions. This is not a good sign.
I believe the cry of Hosea 4:6 rings true for many in the church today: “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. . . . ”—Hosea 4:6
Whenever I am invited to speak somewhere, I can discern the biblical IQ of the group I’m addressing in the first few minutes of my message. I observe the way they track, the way they listen, what interests them, and what doesn’t interest them. I note how they will come alive when an illustration is rolled out. But as soon as I get back to the biblical text, they go into a daze, as if to say, Wake me when the next illustration or joke is coming.
This is because they have never learned to love the Bible. They have never developed a hunger for it. This is what I want my congregation—and all believers—to have. I want them to love the Word of God. We love worship at our services. We love having various artists coming in and sharing their music with us. We love all the other things we can do. But I believe the main event is the teaching and the preaching of the Word of God. That is what I want believers to care for.
Yet tragically, so many people in the church today are biblically illiterate. They don’t have a biblical worldview. I can’t tell you how many times I have gone to a church as a guest speaker and said, “Turn in your Bibles to . . . ” and no one has a Bible. When I will refer to certain biblical passages or a biblical story, they will look at me with blank expressions. This is not a good sign.
I believe the cry of Hosea 4:6 rings true for many in the church today: “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/13/07
Multiple Choice - On Board
He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm. (Proverbs 13:20).
Talk to the president or C.E.O. of any company and they will tell you how vital it is to have a dependable and trusted board of directors. They understand that they don't have all the answers - it's not a one man show. Great decision makers, great leaders, know that they don't know everything and they go to the people who do know. They surround themselves with wise counsel.
The same is true in our personal lives. We need to have a personal board of directors - people we can trust to help us make the right decisions. Too many of us, though, have the uncanny ability to ask the wrong people the wrong questions; and as a result we do the wrong thing.
Instead of falling into that trap, surround yourself with people who will help you navigate the maze of life. Find those around you who you can trust, people who will look out for your best interest even if it doesn't personally benefit them. Find those people who will energize you and motivate you to make the right decisions. Trust that they have an insight into the situation that you may not see.
This week, begin to use your personal board of directors to help you make your decisions. Understand that there are people who will guide you towards the right answers to the multiple choice test of life. Don't try to take everything on by yourself. Instead, use the people that God has placed around you and trust in their wise counsel.
www.edyoung.org
He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm. (Proverbs 13:20).
Talk to the president or C.E.O. of any company and they will tell you how vital it is to have a dependable and trusted board of directors. They understand that they don't have all the answers - it's not a one man show. Great decision makers, great leaders, know that they don't know everything and they go to the people who do know. They surround themselves with wise counsel.
The same is true in our personal lives. We need to have a personal board of directors - people we can trust to help us make the right decisions. Too many of us, though, have the uncanny ability to ask the wrong people the wrong questions; and as a result we do the wrong thing.
Instead of falling into that trap, surround yourself with people who will help you navigate the maze of life. Find those around you who you can trust, people who will look out for your best interest even if it doesn't personally benefit them. Find those people who will energize you and motivate you to make the right decisions. Trust that they have an insight into the situation that you may not see.
This week, begin to use your personal board of directors to help you make your decisions. Understand that there are people who will guide you towards the right answers to the multiple choice test of life. Don't try to take everything on by yourself. Instead, use the people that God has placed around you and trust in their wise counsel.
www.edyoung.org
Saturday, May 12, 2007
The Truck Is Packed...And Packed Extremely Full!
Well, the truck is packed up and ready to roll out of here at 9:30 am to roll up to Washington, DC. We rented a 22ft. truck we should have rented a bigger one though. We couldn't fit everything on there, so we need to rent a smaller truck to take the rest of our stuff. :-(
Also, while I was moving and packing the truck, I started cramping up really bad, my hands, my arms and my legs. It was terrible. Please pray that this will not happen today. That was a terrible feeling.
Anyways, time to get going and finish packing the car.
Also, while I was moving and packing the truck, I started cramping up really bad, my hands, my arms and my legs. It was terrible. Please pray that this will not happen today. That was a terrible feeling.
Anyways, time to get going and finish packing the car.
Daily Caffeination 05/12/07
An Encounter With God
So I was left alone, gazing at this great vision, I had no strength left, my face turned deathly pale and I was helpless. - Daniel 10:8
Daniel received a vision that troubled him greatly. He wanted understanding of this vision. He set himself out to understand the vision by fasting for three weeks. Three days after his three weeks of fasting, a messenger of God appeared to Daniel. The messenger explained that Heaven had heard his prayer from the first day, but the angel was temporarily prevented from coming by the prince of Persia, a demon angel, who sought to thwart God's messenger from coming to Daniel.
There are times in our lives when we must set ourselves to seeking God with all our hearts. It is in these times that we hear from Heaven in ways we may never have experienced before. Daniel's perseverance in prayer was rewarded with a personal encounter with Heaven. However, in order to receive from God, Daniel had to be left alone, have his strength removed, and be placed in a helpless condition. When we have no ability in our own strength to move Heaven or the events around us, we are in position to hear from Heaven. It is the acknowledgment of our humanity and our frailness that places us in a position to have a personal encounter with the living God.
Do you need a personal encounter with God today? Do you need God to intervene on your behalf? Seek Him with all your heart. Demonstrate to Him you are serious. Get alone and acknowledge your helpless condition before Him. He will reward you with His presence.
So I was left alone, gazing at this great vision, I had no strength left, my face turned deathly pale and I was helpless. - Daniel 10:8
Daniel received a vision that troubled him greatly. He wanted understanding of this vision. He set himself out to understand the vision by fasting for three weeks. Three days after his three weeks of fasting, a messenger of God appeared to Daniel. The messenger explained that Heaven had heard his prayer from the first day, but the angel was temporarily prevented from coming by the prince of Persia, a demon angel, who sought to thwart God's messenger from coming to Daniel.
There are times in our lives when we must set ourselves to seeking God with all our hearts. It is in these times that we hear from Heaven in ways we may never have experienced before. Daniel's perseverance in prayer was rewarded with a personal encounter with Heaven. However, in order to receive from God, Daniel had to be left alone, have his strength removed, and be placed in a helpless condition. When we have no ability in our own strength to move Heaven or the events around us, we are in position to hear from Heaven. It is the acknowledgment of our humanity and our frailness that places us in a position to have a personal encounter with the living God.
Do you need a personal encounter with God today? Do you need God to intervene on your behalf? Seek Him with all your heart. Demonstrate to Him you are serious. Get alone and acknowledge your helpless condition before Him. He will reward you with His presence.
Friday, May 11, 2007
The Big Move!
Today and tomorrow we have our big move. Today, we are packing up the truck and tomorrow we drive up to DC drop off everything. Please pray everything goes smoothly and that we get plenty of help to pack and unpack the truck.
I can't believe the day is finally here, it is a little overwhelming...we are both excited and sad. Well, I need to finish getting some stuff ready.
I can't believe the day is finally here, it is a little overwhelming...we are both excited and sad. Well, I need to finish getting some stuff ready.
Daily Caffeination 05/11/07
A Vision of Heaven
And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.—Revelation 21:4
Have you ever tried to explain something to someone and could not quite find the words? Have you ever tried to describe something complex to a child? For God to describe heaven to us in a way we could understand would be like trying to describe the beauty of Hawaii to a three-month-old child. We are not going to be able to comprehend, in our human bodies, all the glories of heaven.
In fact, the apostle Paul, who had the unique experience of dying and going to heaven, said that he heard things so astounding that they could not be told (see 2 Corinthians 12:2–4). Paul was essentially saying that he couldn’t put his experience into words.
Heaven is beyond our comprehension. It is difficult to describe. While there are not many verses in the Bible that tell us about it, the Bible does tell us a few things. It says that in heaven there will be no night. There will be no fear. There will be no suffering or death. All of the pain and disabilities that we face in this life will be gone in heaven.
But the glory of heaven is even more than having new bodies, even more than the absence of darkness and sorrow and pain and death. The fact that Jesus Christ will be there is better than all the beauty and all the answers to our questions.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.—Revelation 21:4
Have you ever tried to explain something to someone and could not quite find the words? Have you ever tried to describe something complex to a child? For God to describe heaven to us in a way we could understand would be like trying to describe the beauty of Hawaii to a three-month-old child. We are not going to be able to comprehend, in our human bodies, all the glories of heaven.
In fact, the apostle Paul, who had the unique experience of dying and going to heaven, said that he heard things so astounding that they could not be told (see 2 Corinthians 12:2–4). Paul was essentially saying that he couldn’t put his experience into words.
Heaven is beyond our comprehension. It is difficult to describe. While there are not many verses in the Bible that tell us about it, the Bible does tell us a few things. It says that in heaven there will be no night. There will be no fear. There will be no suffering or death. All of the pain and disabilities that we face in this life will be gone in heaven.
But the glory of heaven is even more than having new bodies, even more than the absence of darkness and sorrow and pain and death. The fact that Jesus Christ will be there is better than all the beauty and all the answers to our questions.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/10/07
Watching and Waiting
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.-1 Thessalonians 4:16
The Bible says that God has loved us so that in the ages to come, He might show us the exceeding riches of His grace and kindness toward us in Christ Jesus (see Ephesians 2:4–7). In other words, God is saying, “I can hardly wait until you get home so I can show you how much I love you.”
So we don’t need to be stressed out. Jesus is coming again. And some day, in the not-too-distant future, He will set foot back on planet Earth and say, “I have returned.”
As a student of Bible prophecy for many years, I can say that I know of no prophecy in Scripture that needs to be fulfilled before the Lord returns. In my understanding of what the Bible teaches, Jesus Christ could come back for His people today. And it will happen in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye:
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. The dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17)
It could happen at any time. He might return today for those who are watching. Do you want Him to come back? Are you ready for His return?
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.-1 Thessalonians 4:16
The Bible says that God has loved us so that in the ages to come, He might show us the exceeding riches of His grace and kindness toward us in Christ Jesus (see Ephesians 2:4–7). In other words, God is saying, “I can hardly wait until you get home so I can show you how much I love you.”
So we don’t need to be stressed out. Jesus is coming again. And some day, in the not-too-distant future, He will set foot back on planet Earth and say, “I have returned.”
As a student of Bible prophecy for many years, I can say that I know of no prophecy in Scripture that needs to be fulfilled before the Lord returns. In my understanding of what the Bible teaches, Jesus Christ could come back for His people today. And it will happen in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye:
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. The dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17)
It could happen at any time. He might return today for those who are watching. Do you want Him to come back? Are you ready for His return?
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/09/07 - from Hagerstown, MD for 90th District Council for the Potomac District
Our Great Hope
“In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.”—John 14:2
We don’t have to be stressed-out or troubled in our hearts, because as Christians, we are going to heaven. No matter what happens, no one can rob us of that great hope. Maybe you’ve lost your job or your car won’t start. Maybe you have all kinds of problems in your life right now. But you are still going to heaven.
The apostle Paul encouraged the church with these words:
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Corinthians 4:16–17).
The troubles we see now will soon be over, and the joys that are yet to come will last forever. Jesus promises there is a real place called heaven, and you have His word on it. There is one thing that God cannot do, and that is lie. God will keep His word. He has prepared a place for us.
Now when Jesus said, “In My Father’s house are many mansions,” I don’t believe He was speaking of a celestial Beverly Hills with beautiful, palatial mansions for those who live really godly lives on Earth. I don’t believe there will be actual houses on streets when we get to heaven.
But Jesus has promised us that we will be together with Him in heaven, for eternity, in the place He has prepared for us. And He will keep His word.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
“In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.”—John 14:2
We don’t have to be stressed-out or troubled in our hearts, because as Christians, we are going to heaven. No matter what happens, no one can rob us of that great hope. Maybe you’ve lost your job or your car won’t start. Maybe you have all kinds of problems in your life right now. But you are still going to heaven.
The apostle Paul encouraged the church with these words:
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Corinthians 4:16–17).
The troubles we see now will soon be over, and the joys that are yet to come will last forever. Jesus promises there is a real place called heaven, and you have His word on it. There is one thing that God cannot do, and that is lie. God will keep His word. He has prepared a place for us.
Now when Jesus said, “In My Father’s house are many mansions,” I don’t believe He was speaking of a celestial Beverly Hills with beautiful, palatial mansions for those who live really godly lives on Earth. I don’t believe there will be actual houses on streets when we get to heaven.
But Jesus has promised us that we will be together with Him in heaven, for eternity, in the place He has prepared for us. And He will keep His word.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Support and Budget Update
I apologize for not updating you sooner on our budget and support for our Church Planter in Residence internship at National Community Church.
First of all a few praises, our house in Chester is officially rented out, we received back a signed lease as well as a security deposit this past Saturday, YEAH!!! What a relief, thank you Lord! This weekend we pack up the moving truck and head up to Washington, DC on Saturday for the BIG move. I cannot believe this is really happening. Quick someone pinch me. :-)
Now to the budget/support update, we are looking to secure atleast $50 more in monthly support. Yes, only $50 more a month to raise in pledges. Thank you Lord for you blessings, and for all those who have generously made pledges and are partnering with us in the work of building and expanding God's Kingdom.
We ccould not do this without you our supporters, friends and family. We are so appreciative of each of you and your sacrifices. Here is where we currently stand on support/pledges.
National Community Church - $1000/monthly stipend
Potomac District Council - $1250/monthly Church planter internship support
Crosslight Assembly of God Individuals & Church - $850/monthly missions for support as they send us.
Individual Partners, Friends and Family - $150/monthly pledges
With our dependence on support we need to raise a little above our goal just in case some support falls through over the next two years for whatever reason. We were told that you lose about 25% support over a two year tenure. So, I need to get additional support for savings, just in case we lose any support for whatever reasons over the next two years.
Again, thank you all so much for your prayers. love and support we could not do this and would not want to do this without you. We are making ourselves completely accountable to all you so you can see your investment into the kingdom of God.
Thank you all so much, we love you.
Chris & Lora
First of all a few praises, our house in Chester is officially rented out, we received back a signed lease as well as a security deposit this past Saturday, YEAH!!! What a relief, thank you Lord! This weekend we pack up the moving truck and head up to Washington, DC on Saturday for the BIG move. I cannot believe this is really happening. Quick someone pinch me. :-)
Now to the budget/support update, we are looking to secure atleast $50 more in monthly support. Yes, only $50 more a month to raise in pledges. Thank you Lord for you blessings, and for all those who have generously made pledges and are partnering with us in the work of building and expanding God's Kingdom.
We ccould not do this without you our supporters, friends and family. We are so appreciative of each of you and your sacrifices. Here is where we currently stand on support/pledges.
National Community Church - $1000/monthly stipend
Potomac District Council - $1250/monthly Church planter internship support
Crosslight Assembly of God Individuals & Church - $850/monthly missions for support as they send us.
Individual Partners, Friends and Family - $150/monthly pledges
With our dependence on support we need to raise a little above our goal just in case some support falls through over the next two years for whatever reason. We were told that you lose about 25% support over a two year tenure. So, I need to get additional support for savings, just in case we lose any support for whatever reasons over the next two years.
Again, thank you all so much for your prayers. love and support we could not do this and would not want to do this without you. We are making ourselves completely accountable to all you so you can see your investment into the kingdom of God.
Thank you all so much, we love you.
Chris & Lora
Daily Caffeination 05/08/07 - from Hagerstown, MD for 90th District Council for the Potomac District
(Amen, this caffeination is so true. God sees the BIG picture and He sees what is ahead of us. Doesn't God have a great perspective than we do. This is why my faith continues to grow and gets stronger. We need to have a crazy faith in God and the things of God. We have a cause greater than ourselves. I challenge you to keep looking at the big picture, instead of the million pixels in our lives.)
The Big Picture
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.—Romans 8:28
There are times in our lives as Christians when God will do things or fail to do things that we want Him to do, and it will not make sense to us. And because we don’t see the big picture, we may falsely conclude that God has abandoned us. But we need to trust Him during these times, remembering that Jesus Christ is the author and finisher of our faith. In other words, what God starts, He completes.
It seems as I get older, I get distracted and forget things all the time. But what if God forgot about us? What a frightening thought. Imagine being in the midst of a fiery trial as God is watching and waiting for that moment to take us out of it. Then the phone rings, and He is gone for a decade! Thankfully, God never forgets about us. He is in full control. He knows exactly what He is doing. He will complete what He has begun.
Sometimes in the middle of that process, we may think the Lord is missing it. But He isn’t. We’re the ones who are missing it. From our limited human viewpoint, we think of the temporal, but God lives in the eternal. We are thinking of today, but God is planning for tomorrow. We are thinking of comfort, but God is thinking of character. We are thinking of an easy time, but God is thinking of how to make us better people.
So let’s trust Him. Whatever our circumstances or hardships, let us believe His promise to His children, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). All things are working together.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
The Big Picture
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.—Romans 8:28
There are times in our lives as Christians when God will do things or fail to do things that we want Him to do, and it will not make sense to us. And because we don’t see the big picture, we may falsely conclude that God has abandoned us. But we need to trust Him during these times, remembering that Jesus Christ is the author and finisher of our faith. In other words, what God starts, He completes.
It seems as I get older, I get distracted and forget things all the time. But what if God forgot about us? What a frightening thought. Imagine being in the midst of a fiery trial as God is watching and waiting for that moment to take us out of it. Then the phone rings, and He is gone for a decade! Thankfully, God never forgets about us. He is in full control. He knows exactly what He is doing. He will complete what He has begun.
Sometimes in the middle of that process, we may think the Lord is missing it. But He isn’t. We’re the ones who are missing it. From our limited human viewpoint, we think of the temporal, but God lives in the eternal. We are thinking of today, but God is planning for tomorrow. We are thinking of comfort, but God is thinking of character. We are thinking of an easy time, but God is thinking of how to make us better people.
So let’s trust Him. Whatever our circumstances or hardships, let us believe His promise to His children, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). All things are working together.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Monday, May 07, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/07/07
Heart Trouble
“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.”—John 14:1
Have you ever felt troubled in your heart—agitated, stressed-out, or uncertain about tomorrow? Or to put it another way, have you ever driven on a freeway in Southern California?
There is a lot to be afraid of these days, isn’t there? Maybe something has happened to you recently that has turned your world upside down. Maybe you have been wondering whether God really is aware of the problems you are facing right now.
That is exactly how the disciples of Jesus felt. They were downhearted. They were discouraged. When they were all gathered in the Upper Room for the Passover feast, Jesus told them that one of them was going to betray Him. Then He identified Judas Iscariot as the betrayer. Not only that, but Jesus also said Simon Peter would deny Him—not once, not twice, but three times. The disciples’ whole world was turned upside down. And then Jesus began talking about leaving them, about being crucified. They thought, What is going on?
Maybe you feel that way. Maybe there is uncertainty in your future. As you look at your fears and concerns, look at what Jesus said to His disciples and to us today: “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me” (John 14:1). This verse could also be translated, “Let not your heart be agitated, or disturbed, or thrown into confusion. . . .”
Notice that Jesus did not say, “Worry about your problems.” Instead, He said, “Don’t be troubled.” That is His word for us today too.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.”—John 14:1
Have you ever felt troubled in your heart—agitated, stressed-out, or uncertain about tomorrow? Or to put it another way, have you ever driven on a freeway in Southern California?
There is a lot to be afraid of these days, isn’t there? Maybe something has happened to you recently that has turned your world upside down. Maybe you have been wondering whether God really is aware of the problems you are facing right now.
That is exactly how the disciples of Jesus felt. They were downhearted. They were discouraged. When they were all gathered in the Upper Room for the Passover feast, Jesus told them that one of them was going to betray Him. Then He identified Judas Iscariot as the betrayer. Not only that, but Jesus also said Simon Peter would deny Him—not once, not twice, but three times. The disciples’ whole world was turned upside down. And then Jesus began talking about leaving them, about being crucified. They thought, What is going on?
Maybe you feel that way. Maybe there is uncertainty in your future. As you look at your fears and concerns, look at what Jesus said to His disciples and to us today: “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me” (John 14:1). This verse could also be translated, “Let not your heart be agitated, or disturbed, or thrown into confusion. . . .”
Notice that Jesus did not say, “Worry about your problems.” Instead, He said, “Don’t be troubled.” That is His word for us today too.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/06/07
The Value of Words
And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. Simply let your "Yes" be "Yes," and your "No," "No"; anything beyond this comes from the evil one. - Matthew 5:36-37
Imagine for a moment that you are living in Jesus' time. It is before Jesus has begun His public ministry. He is a carpenter in your local town of Nazareth. You have asked Jesus to make a table for you. You're on a deadline and you must have it in a week. You agree on the price of $100 for the table and the date of one week for completion. A week later you arrive to pick up the table. You lay your money down on the table and Jesus says, "Mr. Johnson, I am sorry but the table is not ready. I ran into complications. Also, I can no longer honor the price I gave you. It is now $150 instead of $100."
Two years later you hear about this same Jesus who is preaching to the local townspeople. How are you going to view this Jesus? You probably won't give much credence to His message because of your personal experience. Our lives have an ability to reinforce the message we stand for, or they can violate it and make it totally ineffective. This literally happens all over the world in different settings with Christian workplace believers. Our message becomes ineffective because we have not done what we said.
I know people who, when they tell me they plan to do something, I can expect them to follow through about 50 percent of the time. I am sure you have had the same experience. Words and commitments are made with little meaning behind those words. However, I know others who will follow through almost every time. The only time they don't is when something falls outside their control. I quickly learn whose words have substance behind them.
There are times when we are unable to perform or deliver what we promised due to outside influences. The key to turning these potentially negative circumstances into a witness for Christ is communication. If we are unable to pay a bill on time, we must communicate with those we owe and make a good faith effort to resolve it within our means. In these cases, God's purposes are being performed as well if we seek to do the right thing.
Do your words mean anything to those who hear them? Do you make commitments and fail to follow through on them? What would others say about how you follow through? Ask the Lord today to show you how you are doing in this area. You might even want to ask three people who are the closest to you how you fare in this area.
And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. Simply let your "Yes" be "Yes," and your "No," "No"; anything beyond this comes from the evil one. - Matthew 5:36-37
Imagine for a moment that you are living in Jesus' time. It is before Jesus has begun His public ministry. He is a carpenter in your local town of Nazareth. You have asked Jesus to make a table for you. You're on a deadline and you must have it in a week. You agree on the price of $100 for the table and the date of one week for completion. A week later you arrive to pick up the table. You lay your money down on the table and Jesus says, "Mr. Johnson, I am sorry but the table is not ready. I ran into complications. Also, I can no longer honor the price I gave you. It is now $150 instead of $100."
Two years later you hear about this same Jesus who is preaching to the local townspeople. How are you going to view this Jesus? You probably won't give much credence to His message because of your personal experience. Our lives have an ability to reinforce the message we stand for, or they can violate it and make it totally ineffective. This literally happens all over the world in different settings with Christian workplace believers. Our message becomes ineffective because we have not done what we said.
I know people who, when they tell me they plan to do something, I can expect them to follow through about 50 percent of the time. I am sure you have had the same experience. Words and commitments are made with little meaning behind those words. However, I know others who will follow through almost every time. The only time they don't is when something falls outside their control. I quickly learn whose words have substance behind them.
There are times when we are unable to perform or deliver what we promised due to outside influences. The key to turning these potentially negative circumstances into a witness for Christ is communication. If we are unable to pay a bill on time, we must communicate with those we owe and make a good faith effort to resolve it within our means. In these cases, God's purposes are being performed as well if we seek to do the right thing.
Do your words mean anything to those who hear them? Do you make commitments and fail to follow through on them? What would others say about how you follow through? Ask the Lord today to show you how you are doing in this area. You might even want to ask three people who are the closest to you how you fare in this area.
Saturday, May 05, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/05/07
Unrighteous Acts
..."Shouldn't you walk in the fear of our God to avoid the reproach of our Gentile enemies?" - Nehemiah 5:9
Nehemiah was the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes in Babylon. Jerusalem's walls had been destroyed and word had come to Nehemiah that the remnant of his people left in Jerusalem were distressed over the plight of the wall.
Nehemiah was grieved over this situation. He appealed to his king for permission to rebuild the wall. When he got to the city, he found many problems among his own people due to an economic crisis in the region. Among the classes affected by the economic crisis were (1) the landless, who were short of food; (2) the landowners, who were compelled to mortgage their properties; (3) those forced to borrow money at exorbitant rates and sell their children into slavery. It was unlawful for Hebrews to charge interest to other Hebrews.
Although we are of the same flesh and blood as our countrymen and though our sons are as good as theirs, yet we have to subject our sons and daughters to slavery. Some of our daughters have already been enslaved, but we are powerless, because our fields and our vineyards belong to others (Nehemiah 5:5).
Nehemiah stepped forward to admonish his people for this wrongful action on the basis that not only was it wrong, but God would respond to such action by making them susceptible to His judgment through the Gentile enemies.
Nehemiah was modeling to each of us a spiritual principle regarding sin. Whenever we sin, we give God permission to unleash the enemy into our souls to judge that sin. Nehemiah understood this principle and warned the people of what this action would encourage from God. The people repented and returned the money gained through usury.
As Christian workplace believers we must make sure that our practices are righteous in God's sight. If not, we can expect the enemy to be released to judge that sin. Ask the Lord today if there is any unrighteousness in your business practices that makes you vulnerable to judgment.
..."Shouldn't you walk in the fear of our God to avoid the reproach of our Gentile enemies?" - Nehemiah 5:9
Nehemiah was the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes in Babylon. Jerusalem's walls had been destroyed and word had come to Nehemiah that the remnant of his people left in Jerusalem were distressed over the plight of the wall.
Nehemiah was grieved over this situation. He appealed to his king for permission to rebuild the wall. When he got to the city, he found many problems among his own people due to an economic crisis in the region. Among the classes affected by the economic crisis were (1) the landless, who were short of food; (2) the landowners, who were compelled to mortgage their properties; (3) those forced to borrow money at exorbitant rates and sell their children into slavery. It was unlawful for Hebrews to charge interest to other Hebrews.
Although we are of the same flesh and blood as our countrymen and though our sons are as good as theirs, yet we have to subject our sons and daughters to slavery. Some of our daughters have already been enslaved, but we are powerless, because our fields and our vineyards belong to others (Nehemiah 5:5).
Nehemiah stepped forward to admonish his people for this wrongful action on the basis that not only was it wrong, but God would respond to such action by making them susceptible to His judgment through the Gentile enemies.
Nehemiah was modeling to each of us a spiritual principle regarding sin. Whenever we sin, we give God permission to unleash the enemy into our souls to judge that sin. Nehemiah understood this principle and warned the people of what this action would encourage from God. The people repented and returned the money gained through usury.
As Christian workplace believers we must make sure that our practices are righteous in God's sight. If not, we can expect the enemy to be released to judge that sin. Ask the Lord today if there is any unrighteousness in your business practices that makes you vulnerable to judgment.
Friday, May 04, 2007
Fuse Student Ministry Video
Here is a video package set to Walk On by U2 of my "kids" at Crosslight Assembly of God. Please enjoy the video, the pictures are random taken at various times throughout the last year.
I love these "kids" and I am going to miss them. Thanks for being a part of my life for the last six years. You all are awesome!
I love these "kids" and I am going to miss them. Thanks for being a part of my life for the last six years. You all are awesome!
Picture Video of Contend - PYM Spring Convention
Picture video done to Unveil by Jeff Deyo from the PYM Spring Convention featuring Jeff Deyo; Group 1 Crew; and Thousand Foot Krutch. Also, some pictures of my "kids", I am going to miss them so much. I love you Fuse Student Ministry!
Daily Caffeination 05/04/07
Impossible Tasks
But He answered, "You give them something to eat." - Mark 6:37a
Has anyone ever asked you to do something that seems totally ridiculous? The very suggestion of their instruction may have brought laughter or even anger for proposing the idea.
I imagine that the disciples may have felt this way when Jesus responded with this comment when they asked him how they were going to feed the 5000, who had stayed around to hear him speak. The disciples suggested a logical answer to the problem, "Send the people away so they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat" (Mk 6:36).
That wasn't the answer Jesus wanted. He saw the need of the people. He had compassion on them. He wanted to solve the problem with a Kingdom response, not logic. He asked them what they had in their hand.
So often what we already have in our hand is what Jesus wants us to use to solve our problems. We must add faith to what we already have in our hand. Then we will see the gospel of the Kingdom manifested to solve problems in a supernatural way. Jesus wanted to meet a need in which God would receive the glory. Sending the people away did not meet the need, nor did it bring glory to the Father.
Do not settle for the gospel of salvation only. Jesus came that we might experience the gospel of the Kingdom in its fullest sense. Our job is to look past our logical reasoning and see how God might want to solve our problem in a supernatural way.
But He answered, "You give them something to eat." - Mark 6:37a
Has anyone ever asked you to do something that seems totally ridiculous? The very suggestion of their instruction may have brought laughter or even anger for proposing the idea.
I imagine that the disciples may have felt this way when Jesus responded with this comment when they asked him how they were going to feed the 5000, who had stayed around to hear him speak. The disciples suggested a logical answer to the problem, "Send the people away so they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat" (Mk 6:36).
That wasn't the answer Jesus wanted. He saw the need of the people. He had compassion on them. He wanted to solve the problem with a Kingdom response, not logic. He asked them what they had in their hand.
So often what we already have in our hand is what Jesus wants us to use to solve our problems. We must add faith to what we already have in our hand. Then we will see the gospel of the Kingdom manifested to solve problems in a supernatural way. Jesus wanted to meet a need in which God would receive the glory. Sending the people away did not meet the need, nor did it bring glory to the Father.
Do not settle for the gospel of salvation only. Jesus came that we might experience the gospel of the Kingdom in its fullest sense. Our job is to look past our logical reasoning and see how God might want to solve our problem in a supernatural way.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/03/07
The Loving Church
“My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.” - 1 John 3:18
The Bible tells us again and again that we should love one another. Love is like the glue that holds us all together. The apostle John wrote, “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God” (1 John 4:7).
The Bible’s definitive chapter on love, 1 Corinthians 13, is, in fact, the most comprehensive description of love in all of Scripture. Paul shines love through a prism, so to speak. We see many of its colors and hues, so we can more easily understand love and apply it in a practical way. Each ray gives a different facet of God’s agape love.
The Bible does not focus so much on what love is, but on what love does and does not do. The love of God that we are to demonstrate toward one another is not merely feeling or emotion. Nor is it abstract or passive. It is active. It engages. It works. It moves. God’s love does not merely feel patient; it is patient. God’s love does not simply have kind feelings; it does kind things. Love is fully love only when it is active: “My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:18).
At the same time, the Bible tells us the goal of the Christian is to be conformed to the image of Christ (see Philippians 3:10). This is what God wants you to strive for. This is what He wants you to aim toward—that the love He speaks of will work its way into your life.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
“My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.” - 1 John 3:18
The Bible tells us again and again that we should love one another. Love is like the glue that holds us all together. The apostle John wrote, “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God” (1 John 4:7).
The Bible’s definitive chapter on love, 1 Corinthians 13, is, in fact, the most comprehensive description of love in all of Scripture. Paul shines love through a prism, so to speak. We see many of its colors and hues, so we can more easily understand love and apply it in a practical way. Each ray gives a different facet of God’s agape love.
The Bible does not focus so much on what love is, but on what love does and does not do. The love of God that we are to demonstrate toward one another is not merely feeling or emotion. Nor is it abstract or passive. It is active. It engages. It works. It moves. God’s love does not merely feel patient; it is patient. God’s love does not simply have kind feelings; it does kind things. Love is fully love only when it is active: “My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:18).
At the same time, the Bible tells us the goal of the Christian is to be conformed to the image of Christ (see Philippians 3:10). This is what God wants you to strive for. This is what He wants you to aim toward—that the love He speaks of will work its way into your life.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Transition to Washington, DC Update
As time gets closer to our official move date and start date to Washington, DC and NCC, I get more excited and I get more sad about leaving our friends and family behind here in Chester. I really wish I could take everyone with me to DC.
Yesterday, we officially got our place in DC at 714 10th St. Picked up the keys and we waited from 12:00-5:30 for Verizon to hook up our phone service and the security company to come, but they no showed :-(. I can't believe how much we are down-sizing. All that I can say is our little townhouse is going to be very cozy. However, we do have a second bedroom for anyone who wants to visit DC and needs a place to crash. I am serious, everyone is welcome to come visit.
Yesterday, I did stop by the church office at NCC, but everyone was in the Big Idea meeting, but I did get to meet Bekah, the administrative assistant. I tell you it seems as if everyone I will be working with is supercool. I am looking forward to doing ministry with the amazing team at NCC.
A final note, our official move out date and move in date to Washington is May 11th and May 12th. We are going to try pack the truck on Friday night the 11th and Sat morning the 12th and we are planning to get into DC about 1:30 Saturday to unpack the truck and load into the house. So, if you want to help that would be totally awesome we definitly can use it. Just let me know, my email is facedownworshipper@gmail.com.
Yesterday, we officially got our place in DC at 714 10th St. Picked up the keys and we waited from 12:00-5:30 for Verizon to hook up our phone service and the security company to come, but they no showed :-(. I can't believe how much we are down-sizing. All that I can say is our little townhouse is going to be very cozy. However, we do have a second bedroom for anyone who wants to visit DC and needs a place to crash. I am serious, everyone is welcome to come visit.
Yesterday, I did stop by the church office at NCC, but everyone was in the Big Idea meeting, but I did get to meet Bekah, the administrative assistant. I tell you it seems as if everyone I will be working with is supercool. I am looking forward to doing ministry with the amazing team at NCC.
A final note, our official move out date and move in date to Washington is May 11th and May 12th. We are going to try pack the truck on Friday night the 11th and Sat morning the 12th and we are planning to get into DC about 1:30 Saturday to unpack the truck and load into the house. So, if you want to help that would be totally awesome we definitly can use it. Just let me know, my email is facedownworshipper@gmail.com.
Daily Caffeination 05/02/07
A Place for You
But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased.—1 Corinthians 12:18
The Bible likens the church to a family and to a physical body. We are called as Christians to be functioning, participating, contributing members of the body of Christ. We need to be a part of a body where there is accountability, where there is friendship, and where there is koinonia. We need to be a part of a body where we come to receive and to learn, but we also need a place where we can contribute and serve the Lord with the gifts He has given us.
In comparing the church to a body, the apostle Paul wrote, “But now indeed there are many members, yet one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I have no need of you’; nor again the head to the feet, ‘I have no need of you’ ” (1 Corinthians 12:20–21).
I do many things with my hands, but I don’t think about how I am going to use them. My hands just sort of do what they do. Underneath the skin, everything is working together so I can use my hands. Each part of my body is dependent on another part of my body.
In the same way, the church as a body is interdependent—we cannot live and flourish apart from other believers. God wants us to engage. He wants us to be a part of what He is doing. Attending church is not a spectator sport. We are here to be a functioning part of His church.
Everyone has a job to do. Everyone has a need to serve. There is a place for you. Are you doing your part?
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased.—1 Corinthians 12:18
The Bible likens the church to a family and to a physical body. We are called as Christians to be functioning, participating, contributing members of the body of Christ. We need to be a part of a body where there is accountability, where there is friendship, and where there is koinonia. We need to be a part of a body where we come to receive and to learn, but we also need a place where we can contribute and serve the Lord with the gifts He has given us.
In comparing the church to a body, the apostle Paul wrote, “But now indeed there are many members, yet one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I have no need of you’; nor again the head to the feet, ‘I have no need of you’ ” (1 Corinthians 12:20–21).
I do many things with my hands, but I don’t think about how I am going to use them. My hands just sort of do what they do. Underneath the skin, everything is working together so I can use my hands. Each part of my body is dependent on another part of my body.
In the same way, the church as a body is interdependent—we cannot live and flourish apart from other believers. God wants us to engage. He wants us to be a part of what He is doing. Attending church is not a spectator sport. We are here to be a functioning part of His church.
Everyone has a job to do. Everyone has a need to serve. There is a place for you. Are you doing your part?
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Daily Caffeination 05/01/07
Called Together
Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common—Acts 2:44
There is nothing in this world quite like Christian fellowship. We know that the early church worshipped and prayed together. They studied the Scriptures together. They ate together. They gave their tithes and offerings together. They shared the gospel together. They helped one another and stuck together. In short, they loved one another.
The word that describes this phenomenon is the Greek word koinonia, which is usually translated “fellowship.” But it is also translated into the words “communion,” “distribution,” “contribution,” or “partnership.” This means there is something wonderful and supernatural that people in the church experience. It’s the bond that we have in which we love one another.
God has a unique purpose and place for the church in the world today. Paul tells us that we Christians are “the called of Jesus Christ” (see Romans 1:6). God’s people are called out of a world system that is hostile to the teachings of Scripture. As Jesus said, “You are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you” (John 15:19).
This doesn’t mean we are to isolate ourselves from the world, because Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (see Matthew 5:16).
We are to be salt and light in this culture. But at the same time, we are called out of it and warned that we are not to love it. And not only are we as the church called out of the world, but we are also called together.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common—Acts 2:44
There is nothing in this world quite like Christian fellowship. We know that the early church worshipped and prayed together. They studied the Scriptures together. They ate together. They gave their tithes and offerings together. They shared the gospel together. They helped one another and stuck together. In short, they loved one another.
The word that describes this phenomenon is the Greek word koinonia, which is usually translated “fellowship.” But it is also translated into the words “communion,” “distribution,” “contribution,” or “partnership.” This means there is something wonderful and supernatural that people in the church experience. It’s the bond that we have in which we love one another.
God has a unique purpose and place for the church in the world today. Paul tells us that we Christians are “the called of Jesus Christ” (see Romans 1:6). God’s people are called out of a world system that is hostile to the teachings of Scripture. As Jesus said, “You are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you” (John 15:19).
This doesn’t mean we are to isolate ourselves from the world, because Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (see Matthew 5:16).
We are to be salt and light in this culture. But at the same time, we are called out of it and warned that we are not to love it. And not only are we as the church called out of the world, but we are also called together.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
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