Faith Notes

The Pharoh In Us

2012-01-06T06:27:00.000-08:00

Reading the Exodus story. Pharoh is an interesting person. As I read about his stubborn refusal to cooperate with God's plan, I thought about the Pharoh in all of us. Pharoh showed a few flashes of remorse, regret, or something, but never really got on his face before God in repentance. I wonder how much the Pharoh in all of us is hindering the Lord from doing a new work in His church. Our refusal to repent, our attempt to manipulate the situation, our personal sin that we sweep under the rug, all hinder the Lord from pouring out the Holy Spirit upon us. How desperately the body of Christ in America needs an exodus from our current status into the promised land of victory over sin and world. A life of power and victory, of light and love awaits us in the promised land of the Spirit filled life. The pharoh in us resists any call to repentance. We run to our comfort zone of experiences from long ago, and rationalize our personal and corporate coldness and lethargy. We blame the culture and Christ remains outside knocking on the door. Hard and cold hearts fill our churches. We have become like the Jewish leaders of Jesus' day, thinking we are the holy ones, we have moved into the abyss of self delusion and spiritual darkness. Lord, remove the pharoh spirit from our hearts in order to do your new work in us and through us, for your glory. I repent-revive me again O Lord.

Christmas Hope

2011-12-23T13:43:00.000-08:00

Reality sets in as another Christmas has arrived and another year is about to begin. During the course of time, much changes, and yet many things remain the same. The change in our culture during my lifetime has been startling. We have abandoned truth for individual happiness. At the dismissal of right and wrong, man is doing what is right in his own eyes. Darkness deepens as our culture moves away from the Light and into the abyss of self centeredness and ignorance. What remains the same is the reason for season. Jesus Christ is born. The incredible grace and mercy of our Creator is always enough to sing about-no matter how deep the darkness, and sordid the sinfulness of man. Because Christ came and because He lives and is coming again, there is always hope for mankind. This hope penetrates the darkness, and confronts our selfishness with a call to repentance and faith. As mankind looks in the mirror this Christmas season, we must confess we are masters of an ever increasing mess. The Anointed One has come and men love darkness instead of light-some things don't change. A child is born, a Son is given and the message of hope rings loud and clear at this Christmas time. Thank you Father for the gift of the Son! I have hope!

Advent Hope

2011-12-14T06:45:00.000-08:00

Hope is not about escaping the reality of today, it is a way of living in time, in the moment, no matter how painful and disappointing that may be. Hope is knowing that each day, each moment is working for Christ's people a greater glory (2 Cor. 4:16, Rom. 8:18). We live in hope, and our hope is in His name-Jesus Christ. His kingdom, His rule over us today is our foundation for hope. I believe, therefore, I hope. This hope is not in Mohammed, Ghandi, Joseph Smith, Mother Mary, L. Ron Hubbard. These are mere mortals who need to find hope outside themselves. Our hope is in the One who came from above, who ascended back to heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. We must repent for placing our hope in anything but Christ. All around the birth of Jesus was the annoucement of hope. Good news of great joy-a Savior is born-Glory to God in the highest. When Jesus proclaimed the kingdom of God, it was a call to hope. A call to look forward, to live forward, to believe something greater is still to come and all that we encounter today is working toward that end. God is not dead nor does He sleep-Christ's people are a people of hope. Christmas is a time to rejoice in the hope we have in Christ.

Advent Hope

2011-12-13T05:57:00.000-08:00

The irony of the incarnation is that God's perfect self expression was not what anyone could have come up with on their own. No man would have written the story with the Eternal God beginning as a baby with a dirty diaper, dependent for life upon a Jewish teenager. It's the great come down-the Word became flesh. They taunted Jesus to come down from the cross, but the great come down had already taken place. Jesus the Nazarene was from above. He was heaven's gift. Unlike Mohammed, Joseph Smith, Ghandi, Mother Mary, Confucious, Jesus was from above. All others are only men, Jesus is the God-Man. An inexplainable mystery, but a mystery with a face on it in Jesus of Nazareth. John 3 speaks of the great come down. Of Jesus being from above. Unlike John the Baptist, or any other prophet, priest or king in Israel's great history, this King was sent from the Father full of grace and truth. Hope lives because God has responded to the need of man with the perfect gift from heaven-a child was born, a Son was given!

Advent Hope / Matthew 12:21

2011-12-05T06:49:00.000-08:00

Matthew 12:21-In His name the nations will put their hope. The NLT reads, 'and his name will be the hope of all the world'. This is a hard lesson for arrogant mankind to learn. We are the enlightened species and we can solve all the problems of the world, etc. The hope of the nations is not in politics, religion, military might, economic strength, government assistance, etc. The hope for mankind is the person of Jesus. In His Name-there is the power to bring peace to the most troubled heart, to bring light into the darkest life. Our greatest sin is that we continue to look away from Jesus. Man loves darkness because his deeds are evil (Jn. 3). Repentance is for 'bad' people, and we are not bad, just uneducated. At this Christmas time, let us hear the invitation of Almighty God to put our hope in the Son. Those who came to Jesus in the gospels, those who came expressing their need, humble and contrite, willing to submit to His authority, went away filled with hope and life. Joy to the world the Lord is come-let us put our trust in the Name above all names, Jesus Christ.

The Face of God

2011-11-30T14:22:00.000-08:00

E. Stanley Jones said, "Christianity put a face on God and Jesus is that face." Moses asked to see the face of God and was spared the experience. Jacob wrestled with the angel of the Lord and claimed to have seen the face of God. Joan Osborne's song, "What if God was one of us?" asks the question, "If God had a face, what would it look like?" The people around Jesus were certain it wouldn't look like Jesus the Nazarene. The Good News of the Kingdom is that in the face of Jesus the Nazarene we see the God of all glory. Eventually the disciples were able to say, 'we beheld His glory-the glory of the One and only Son sent from the Father full of grace and truth (Jn.1).' We have seen-they did see the true and living God in a new dimension. The representatives of Judaism had marred the image of God with their legalism, judgmentalism and general lack of love for everyone else. Jesus looked with compassion on the broken, the lost and the least. Jesus revealed the prodigal God whose love seemed to know no limits. He invites you to look into His face. The God of all ages has revealed Himself in the glory, simplicity and purity of Jesus the Nazarene.

Blessed

2011-10-24T06:42:00.000-07:00

The Beatitudes offer an alternative picture to everyday life. Our Creator and Redeemer identifies what makes for the blessed life. Christ is the center of this life, the source of this life. To be blessed is to have Christ in you, the hope of glory. To be blessed is to feed upon the Bread of life. To be blessed is to have the witness of the Spirit that declares I belong to the King, I'm a child of His love. To be blessed is to find a righteousness from God in Christ that sets me right from the inside out. To be blessed is to discover the gift of living in the Father's house. To be blessed is to not get God to do what you want, but to align yourself with the Father's heart, live under His authority and for His glory. Paul proclaims this new life in Ephesians 1-we are blessed with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places in Christ. Thank you Jesus! I want to live blessed!

Fifty Five

2011-09-26T06:19:00.001-07:00

I remember when the speed limit was 55-that was a good speed for the 73 Pinto with a top end of around 73. Now I celebrate 55-which reminds me that life is short-we are a vapor, quickly vanishing. The cemetary is full of markers reminding us that life has no guarantees on duration. Death comes, sometimes it comes in a rude manner. Today I count my blessings. I am grateful for a great wife, two beautiful daughters and a great son in law. I am grateful for a mom who still prays for me, for a dad who showed me the Way, who walked the talk. I am grateful for the good people of Christ-who love, give, serve, pray, and stay faithful even when it would be a lot easier to be selfish. Today I read Ps. 103 and Eph. 3:14-20 to begin the day. Both remind me of amazing grace, of the incomprehensible nature of God and the awesome provision of salvation in Christ. God is able. God is slow to anger, compassionate, abounding in love. At this point I sing, 'all the way my savior leads me what have I to ask beside' and 'just as I am without one plea but that Your blood was shed for me.'

Bulls Eye

2011-09-13T15:01:00.000-07:00

The Word of God is the bulls eye for all of life. Jesus came to do the Father's will. God's Word is a revelation of the Father's heart. A heart that desires life for His choice creation. Life that comes as we place our trust in the Word of God (Jesus Christ) and as we follow the Word of God. Jesus didn't turn stones into bread (Mt. 4), He followed the Word of the Father. He was hungry, but a greater desire was to do the Father's will. We must desire God's Word, be hungry for God's Word, submissive to God's Word. Jesus says we are live by every Word that comes from the mouth of God. We cannot afford to be selective in our obedience-when we are we miss the bulls eye-we miss the mark-we sin-death begins to work in our spirit. Our culture rejects the Word of God. At best it is one of many options for our cultural mindset. Deut. 8 sets the stage for Mt. 4. Be careful to obey every command. James says the doubleminded person is unstable-unable to hit the bulls eye. Let us submit wholehearted to the Word of God-this the only source of life.

How Long

2011-08-16T07:12:00.000-07:00

Sunday we looked at Psalm 13. The point of the Psalm for me is the choice to sing to the Lord in the middle of the 'how long' of life. For too many the song has gone silent, the music of grace has died in their spirit. They are moaning and groaning about life and the injustice and pain, and the seeming silence of God instead of making the choice to rejoice in the Lord. At times it is much easier to moan and groan than rejoice. But the easy thing is seldom the path of the Kingdom of God. David was under attach from Saul, life was not as it should be, he was the anointed king but living as a fugitive, one of Saul's most wanted. It would have been easy for him to get stuck in the 'how long'. But David still had the song. God's grace brings a song to the human spirit. A song we should be willing to sing at midnight even if we are shackled in a Roman prison (Acts 16). There was a point when David probably lost the song and Psalm 51 records this. David cries out for God to restore the joy of His salvation-I need the song back. God restores the song when we repent and let go of our moaning and groaning. Maybe this song is the heartbeat of God planted within the spirit of the person of faith. Thank you Lord for the song (Psalm 40).

Your Kingdom Come

2011-06-29T05:51:00.000-07:00

The rule, reign of God in the human heart is the firstfruits of when this world will no longer be dominated and darkened by the sinfulness and selfishness of man, but will be the home of righteousness (2 Peter 3:13). Until then, Christ's people, must embody that Kingdom in their relationships and attitudes, priorities and pursuits of daily life. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) pictures this radical lifestyle, the unselfish attitudes, the other world priorities. Brennan Manning states that when we live in compassion towards others, the Kingdom of God comes. Our compassion connection has become disconnected. Christians are known more for their political efforts and statements on morality than for their love of others. They will know we are Christ's by our love for each other. A love that then carries over into the marketplace to touch the life of our neighbor, who may also be our enemy. The fruit of the Spirit is love...The greatest of these is love...the fulfillment of the law is love...the greatest command is to love God and others. Jesus had compassion on the multitudes. The deepest part of his person was moved to weep, give, serve, lay down his life for those who loved darkness more than light. The Kingdom had come and even the most religious were repulsed by its picture. Dare we pray, Father in heaven, Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth...To truly pray this is to be the channel through which the Father shows His compassion, love, mercy. I beseech you, in view of God's mercy, be a living and holy sacrifice (Romans 12:1-3).

Fools Paradise

2011-05-18T09:30:00.000-07:00

Here we are approaching another prediction of the end. An individual has 'heard from God', spent a million dollars, and is thoroughly convinced of his date work. I am puzzled by this in light of Christ's own words that no man knows the hour or day (Mt. 24:36). Maybe I am reading that wrong, but the guy in 1988 who then changed it to 1989 missed it too. The guy in 1000 AD that set a day missed it. Watch and pray Jesus said. We would rather get lathered up about a date than to watch and pray. Watching and praying are no fun, receive no media attention, and are easily replaced by watching TV and playing. Jesus is coming again-be hope filled as you live in the midst of the chaos. Know that it is well with your soul because the King of kings lives in you. We don't need to live in a fools paradise of guessing games and probability. We can live with faith's assurance that God will keep one more promise and the trumpet will sound and Christ will come and establish the new heaven and new earth, the home of righteousness. Whenever God fufills that promise I am fine. It's His ballgame, I'm just glad to be on the team.

Radical Sacrifice

2011-03-29T14:12:00.001-07:00

How many sermons about Jesus dying for us do we need to listen to before we will become a different church? Sometimes I wonder if saying some bad words will get our attention & awaken us to the radical truth, this unparalleled story of God dying for man. Can I grasp the magnitude of such a gift, the expense, the radical act of sacrificial love, the depth of unselfishness, the expanse of mercy & grace that rescues a chaotic world from the destruction of sin & selfishness? Can I grasp the intensity of sin, its hideousness, its hellishness, it destructive power & damning purpose? When I see Jesus broken, beaten, abused, mocked, tortured beyond comprehension, am I awakened to the putrid reality of my sin? God in his infinite wisdom declared that without sacrifice there would be no redemption. That sacrifice was a life given to redeem. Not merely something, but a living being had to be given to pay the price. A sacrifice that cost-a life was given, death was experienced, someone had to stop breathing & enter the darkness of death to become my Savior. The gap, the chaos of sin & selfishness that exists between man & God demanded a sacrifice greater than I can give. The Son left heaven, emptied himself, laid down His life, took my place, died my death, became sin for me-hideous, obnoxious, repulsive sin-the holy, sinless one got the raw end of the deal so that I can be alive & free & know rest of God & escape chaos.

In Christ Hope

2011-03-11T06:58:00.000-08:00

The amazing hope that is prepared in Christ for His followers does not negate the reality of our humanity with all its weakness, nor does it negate the reality of life's uncertainties. Hope in Christ is our bridge to tomorrow. The follower of Christ awakens each day to new grace and the opportunity to journey with the living God. This hope is not a mind game with the realities around us, but is a settled state of spirit and mind as one embraces the truth that Jesus Christ reigns. Watchman Nee captures the tension that we often experience as we live as aliens and strangers in this world. "The chistian life is a paradox of power in weakness, joy amid pain, faith triumphing in the presence of doubt. When the Christian is strongest in the Lord he is often most conscious of inabiilty; when he is most courageous he may be profoundly aware of fear within; and when he is most joyful a sense of distress readily breaks upon him again. It is only the exceeding greatness of the power that lifts him on high (Nee/Table In The Wilderness, 3/24)."

The Great Race & Holiness

2011-01-26T06:59:00.000-08:00

I've been digging in Hebrews 12: 1-3 for preaching material for the new year. The great race, the race of faith, following Christ. As I continue to dig into Hebrews you come to grips with the fact that the race is about holiness. Christ our sanctifier, died to make us holy (13:12, 2:11). We are called to live in holiness (12:14). We are his brothers, his family as we share in His holiness (2:11). How tragic that the church has abandoned the call to holiness, or watered it down to merely something positional. This holiness is to be personal and practical. This holiness is Christlikeness and sets the body of Christ apart from the confused world. The throne of grace is to provide grace and strength to live the holy life. We share a 'heavenly calling'(3:1) holy brothers-called to be different and make a redemptive difference-to be holy. This holiness is not legalism, but the life of Christ in us. The better covenant is for this purpose. We can draw near so our hearts will be transformed and we will find the faith that presses forward. We are holy in Christ and we are being made holy as the Father disciplines and the Spirit leads and we obey (10:14, 12:10). Let us go to the throne of grace to receive what we need for holy living. In a confused world I have a purpose and calling.

The Great Race

2011-01-17T06:54:00.000-08:00

The writer of Hebrews is making a call to faith. Living in a confused world, sometimes it's not easy to live by faith, to trust in the true and living God. Faith is not something we create or work up, but a response to God, who He is and what He has said. Faith is a response to something else and as Christians we are responding to the person and work of Jesus Christ. The race we are running is a marathon. It's not easy, it's not a quick fix, it demands concentration, focus, commitment, sacrifice. The marathon runner builds his/her life around running the marathon. Every day decisions are made according to the commitment to run the long distance. We must build following Christ into everyday. Jesus said, deny self, take the cross and follow me daily. Daily we decide to follow Christ. Daily choices are driven by the commitment to be pleasing to the Lord. Our confidence to run the race is Jesus Christ. Let us focus our attention on Him and run and keep running the race. The world is in confusion. They don't know where they are going, or who they are following. Christ's people are confident about the future. The Author and Finisher of their faith calls us to keep running.

Christmas Blessing

2010-12-20T09:50:00.000-08:00

The argument concerning Christmas continues. I choose to embrace the opportunity to focus on the great act of God's redemptive grace, He gave His Son. However it all came to be, it is an opportunity to call attention to an act like no other. The indescribable gift has been given and the world needs to be aware of this generosity. The Word became flesh-let that sink in. The Word became the sin offering for mankind (2 Corinthians 5:21). A price so great, a sacrifice so significant, an act of mercy so intense and awesome-who cares about the date, or the origins of a holiday. Let's worship and adore the living and true God who sometime, somewhere became flesh so that we might know Him. The world affords us an opportunity to focus attention upon this mercy. Celebrate every light, song, tree, gift, decoration-in some way they point to the King of kings. Christmas is God blessing a broken world. Let's be a blessing to Him!

Advent

2010-11-29T12:50:00.000-08:00

As we enter Advent season of another year, we focus our attention upon one of God's sign posts. This neon sign reminds us of God's sovereignty, that His ways are beyond finding out or explanation. His plan, purposes and the working of His power defy our best explanation. What God does, how He has responded to the sinfulness of man should bring astonishment and wonder to us-always. Some hear the message and call it foolishness. Some hear, see and believe and through a power and authority not their own are transformed into children of God. A transformation that defies description and is experienced through faith. A song of praise replaces a cry of despair and emptiness. God is still working His plan. The Incarnation was only part of the story. Let's fix our eyes upon Jesus and refuse to settle for a Christianity that is less than what Jesus illustrated. He defines love, mercy, compassion, holiness, obedience, faith. He defines God. Fix your eyes on Jesus the author and finisher of our faith-the Word became flesh.

God's Rule

2010-11-16T05:51:00.000-08:00

It is reported that when Churchhill was dying, after reflecting about the world and life he stated, 'there is no hope.' As we view the landscape of history, as we look into the troubled waters of tomorrow and work to make sense of the noise of today, it would seem that hope is in limited supply. One would especially come to this conclusion if you lived in other world areas. Areas constantly stressed and decimated by famine, war, genocide, disease, extreme poverty. The good news is God rules. In His sovereign purposes He is working His story and bringing to pass what He has planned. There is a solid foundation, there is an unshakable kingdom. The life of Jesus was reflective of this stability. Hanging from the cross, breathing the last breath of his earthly existence, He entrusted His spirit to the Father. Each day we should do the same. Each day we should submit to God's rule and live in His peace. Each day we can have hope because He is at work in all things. Someone said, 'life without Christ is a hopeless end, but life with Christ is endless hope.' Let's turn our eyes upon Jesus and live under God's sovereign rule-today!

Tune My Heart

2010-11-02T07:13:00.000-07:00

The thanksgiving season is upon us, but for Christ's people, thanksgiving is to be a continual attitude and practice. The hymn states, 'come thou fount of every blessing tune my heart to sing thy grace.' We need a heart tuning to sing praise and thanksgiving and separate ourselves from complaining. It is a great sin for Christ's people to complain. We need to practice one minute praising throughout the day not only for each other, but for Almighty God. The King of kings deserves our praise. Israel had a tendency to forget. When we forget God and His blessings we become ingrates-ungrateful people. The opposite of an ingrate is a Christian. The person who remembers grace and mercy, who has not forgotten that they were once darkness, once without hope and without God, but now they have come to new abundant life in Christ. O Holy Spirit tune my heart to be a heart of praise and thanksgiving to God.

Love is the greatest

2010-10-13T09:18:00.000-07:00

Our challenge at Amarillo First Nazarene over the last two months has been, "love Amarillo." We have been challenged by God's Word as it repeatedly calls Christ's church to a whole different way of living. To live a life of love is the holiness that Christ is looking for in His church. We, the body of Christ, must have a different look, feel and smell from the world. We are to be the aroma of Christ-the aroma of holy love. Patience, kindness, gentleness, self control, forgiveness-God's Word defines this love in very practical ways that challenge each of us. It is a radical lifestyle that requires the work of the Holy Spirit. When we walk in love, we bring life into the situation. When we do otherwise it leads to death. We can be like Cain or like Christ (1 John 3:12). I find it too easy to be like Cain who butchered Abel. The Holy Spirit must be in control. His cleansing presence is not an option. Christ's eternal life in us is a powerful presence to make us different from the world around us, and to help us make a redemptive difference. Self must be laid aside if the world is to see Christ in us. This all begins as we grasp how great the love is that God has lavished on us (1 Jn. 3:1).

Blaming God / Burning Books

2010-09-10T07:52:00.001-07:00

As a pastor you hear a lot of excuses for various forms of behavior. A common excuse is the one being exercised by the pastor in Florida who wants to burn the Koran. He is blaming the whole episode on God. "We are only trying to do what God told us to do." No, they are only trying to do what some short sighted man wants to do. It is interesting that the church's name begins with "Dove". The symbol of peace and the Holy Spirit and yet for this man and his people it seems to be only a symbol. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace... We all know Christ told us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute-a stretch for any of us. It's easier to burn books, call names, drop bombs, file lawsuits than to love. Let's abandon the "God told me" excuse. This man's proposed actions do not fit with the Jesus way. It is amazing that so much attention has been generated by a single, small church. Yet it is amazing how much hatred, anxiety, hostility was generated by 911-the actions of only a few. A terrible tragedy that left many deep wounds, but only a few expressed the hatred. Hopefully this man will move beyond his selfish agenda, see the bigger picture and ask a simple question, 'what would Jesus do?' The answer: He loved his enemies and calls His church to do the same.

Worship vs Entertainment

2010-08-16T07:36:00.001-07:00

The body of Christ in America is in major need of Holy Spirit overhaul. We have become like the world, are really in love with the things and ways of this world. A renewal of worship could be a key place to begin. As Tozer stated years ago, 'worship is the missing jewel of the church.' The American church scene has become inspirational, therapeutic, and entertaining. It is man centered, and presentation driven. It is culturally inspired and no longer driven by our awe of God's holiness, and a humility and brokeness concerning His love and grace twoard us. We are bondage to our cultural climate which is driven by our need to be entertained, stimulated. Lighting, sound, multi-media, all forms of instrumentation-yes it may have its place; however, when we become dependent upon those things to create a certain 'worship experience' we are idolatrous. How much lighting, sound, media is enough? Are we incompetition with Hollywood?

When we worship, whether in a building on Sunday morning, or driving to work on Monday morning, it is an encounter with the living God and brings transformation to our person through the work of the Holy Spirit. The encounter with God, the engagement of His person and the recognition of His holiness brings transformation. Every day is a battle for our worship. Let's focus attention on the living Christ and live in awe and gratitude.

Isaiah was revived as He saw the Lord and worshiped.

Neither Do I...

2010-08-02T08:44:00.000-07:00

Words are powerful. I regret saying some things as I look back on life. With maturity comes a greater ability to 'hold the tongue.' Little phrases such as 'I love you', 'you're beautiful', you're special' can lift a soul. The negative phrases can be just as devestating. No telling what names she had been called that day. They placed her in front of Jesus. She was condemned, a sinner caught in the act. It was a religious frenzy. Judgment, condemnation, rules, laws, punishment. Jesus played in the dirt while they squabbled, haggled, and destroyed her with their words and looks. Christ asked the question that shattered their religious pride, at least for the moment. Jesus was the only sinless one in the mix. He could have cast the first stone. He could have been a religious zealot, instead He was the compassionate God come in the flesh. He spoke to her as she had never been spoken to before. There was hope, love, grace in His voice. She couldn't believe what she heard. This couldn't be the Word of God, but it was, He is. "Neither do I." Christ didn't come to condemn the world, but to set it free from condemnation & guilt (John 3:16-17). Christ stands at the crossroads between the law and grace of God. He stands not to condemn but to save. She was given a second opportunity. "Stop doing the things that are killing you" Christ exhorted. Quit sinning. Walk in the light. Walk in life. She could because of His grace. Hopefully she did and we will because of His grace. (John 8:1-11). Neither do I...thank you Jesus!

American Church

2010-07-22T06:46:00.000-07:00

You've heard of American pie, let's talk American church. I was reading this morning in 1 Cor.1 where Paul speaks of preaching the cross and of desiring not to empty the cross of its power. I have often thought on that phrase and prayed over it because as a preacher the temptation is to use 'words of human wisdom' as Paul says in 1 Cor. 1:17. The American church has few similarities to the N.T. model. Today, a majority of church goers have made their most recent choice based upon style of music, style of preaching, programs for children and youth, etc. As a pastor I have seen the subtle but radical shift so that it's about man, not about God. The gathering of the saints that we call 'church' is to be a time of corporate celebration of God's holiness and grace. A time of equipping and encouragement. A time of accountability and exhortation. A time of sharing our journey, passing the faith along to the next generation, praying for one another. Today the challenge is to create a better entertainment model than the church down the street. American church is about entertainment and feeling good. It is man centered instead of Christ centered. The result is we have emptied the cross of its power. The mega-church model with all its hollywood show and feel has become the coveted model. As a pastor it is fun to be the church in town people want to come to; however, I know too many come because they 'like' the singing or preaching, etc. Paul goes on to say God choose the lowly and despised things to use for His glory. There is nothing wrong with the mega church or with a hollywood style presentation-at least I'm going to say there is not. The motive and intent are critical and only God measures that. Those of us in the church must be cautious about what we are looking for in a church-we are the church. It's not about music style or preaching dynamic, it's about the power of God and the wisdom of God. Our boast must be in the Lord. Think about it church. Have we emptied the Gospel of its power with our desire for personal gratification?

Roadstar Ride

2010-07-14T07:36:00.000-07:00

I just completed a 3000+ mile motorcycle ride from Lubbock to Ohio and back. If you think that is crazy, I had lunch with a pastor from Indiana who had just done a 6000 mile ride. The open road, wind in your face, road kill stench, and a good strong rain storm will make you wonder if you made the right choice. It sounds like a long distance, but it takes place one mile at a time. It's a lot like life. One day at a time, one step at a time, one choice at a time, but the cumulative effect is startling. The key in all of it is to know what road you are traveling, and to know what your intended destination is. Each day the road is the pathway of Jesus Christ. Each day the goal is to be like Him and bring glory to His name. At the end of the journey the goal is to know you have lived life well, and been His good and faithful servant. Sometimes the journey is a blue sky and winding roads of creation beauty. Some days it's raining and you can't see through your goggles. The key in all of it is to stay focused and move forward in faith, motivated by a radical love for Jesus Christ because you have discovered and tasted His radical love for you. The biker saying (I'm not a biker but I like to ride) is ride to live, live to ride. Paul, has a better version, "For me to live is Christ..."

FATHER'S DAY

2010-06-23T13:45:00.000-07:00

Father's Day has come and gone. This Father's Day marked the first for my wife without her dad and my seventh without my dad. Being a dad is a challenge, maybe one of life's greatest challenges. Maybe I should rephrase. If you desire to be a good dad and lead your family and train your children to be persons of character and follow the Christian faith, it is a monumental challenge. I am thankful for a dad who did his best to train, lead and provide. I am forever a debtor to Joseph Donnerberg, and Karen would say the same about her dad, James Blankenship. I am grateful for my earthly father's love and life, but I am also grateful for a Father in heaven who loves to give good gifts to His children. A heavenly Father who knows what I need even before I ask, who gives the Holy Spirit as a most precious gift. The gift I cherish today is the presence of my heavenly Father through the Holy Spirit living in me. My Dad's presence is a distant memory. But my Father in heaven is here, with and within me today. That presence leads, guides, provides, disciplines, encourages, sanctifies, strengthens. His Spirit witnesses with my Spirit that I am His child and He loves me.

JOY

2010-06-07T16:11:00.000-07:00

We are beginning a series of messages at Amarillo First Nazarene on the promises of God from the Gospel of John. This Sunday is the promise of joy, John 15:11. Like peace, joy is the salvation of the Lord. Joy is the good news replacing the bad news in the human heart, it is the taste of forgiveness and release from guilt and condemnation. It is the rush of stepping into the Father's arms and being smothered with the embrace of holy love and acceptance. It is the smile that erupts from the depths of a heart that has been liberated, healed, and invaded with Divine holiness. Joy is the awe of being overwhelmed wtih abounding grace and magnificant mercy. Joy is Jesus Christ-Savior, Sanctifier, Shepherd. Joy is the hallelujah of the life redeemed from darkness and death. Joy is the inner dance of a new creature in Christ. Joy is the celebration of God in Christ and the discovery and participation in amazing grace.

I heard Ravi Zacharias say this: Joy for Christian is central and sorrow peripheral. For the unbeliever sorrow is central and joy is peripheral...the fruit of the Spirit is joy.

Pentecost

2010-05-19T13:13:00.000-07:00

Sunday is Pentecost Sunday. It is one of those key markers that has been overshadowed by Christmas and Easter. In the course of God's salvation history, each new revelation of God's amazing grace and redemptive power is essential. The great promise of the Holy Spirit living within anyone who places their faith in Christ. The promise that the wicked, sinful, selfish heart within mankind could be purified, sanctified, and filled with Christ's presence through the Holy Spirit. The promise that love could be enthroned in the human heart replacing the cruel selfishness that marks the history of mankind. The promise of power to be witnesses of Christ's love and grace. Power to be patient, kind, forgiving, merciful. The power to be Christ-like. Some would scoff at such a claim, but this is what mankind was created to be. Be filled with the Spirit! This is the birthright of all mankind. The provision of Christ provided a presence and power to fulfill the purpose of the Father. This is the Divine power to hope, pray, serve, give, to be witnessess. We have a story to tell. We tell it best by living each day to the praise of Christ. We tell each day by living a holiness that radiates the beauty of Jesus Christ. To be filled with the Holy Spirit is the great gift of the Father. All Christ did paved the way for this powerful presence to be realized today, this moment, in your life.

James Russell Blankenship

2010-04-15T11:49:00.000-07:00

Karen’s dad just stepped into eternity this morning (4/15/10). I should say he stepped into the awesome presence of the living Christ. Having lost two key men in my life, my dad six years ago(12/30/03) and now my father in law reminds me of the transient nature of life and how important a place we each play in life. Each of these men had much in common and yet were distinctly different. They were each men of God, whose first love was Jesus Christ. Both knew the importance of prayer and the power of God’s Word. They were patient, kind, generous and gracious. They were leaders, each in their own arena of life, and yet were humble servants. They lived for eternity and walked with a consciousness of the living Christ each day. They were aware of and thankful for the grace of God. They loved to laugh, and each had a smile that was unlike anyone else. Their eyes were of different color, but there was a sparkle in their eyes even when the days were dark. They both were born into a world filled with difficulty and few luxuries. One was a preacher, the other a small town businessman. Both ran the race till the end and were good and faithful servants of the Lord. Neither one had any significant title, but both left a testimony and a legacy of faith and faithfulness. They were devoted, consistent, credible, authentic, real men. They were respected by their peers, cherished by their family, and appreciated by a multitude of others influenced through their service and love. Their final word to us would be the same, “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the seat of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of living water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.” For living life well and showing us the way, with deep gratitude and respect I say, THANK YOU to Joseph Lee Donnerberg and James Russell Blankenship.

The Way of The Cross

2010-04-01T06:49:00.001-07:00

Last night we joined with several other churches in the city and began a three night series of services for holy week. In reality each week, each day is holy-it is the Lord's. A precious gift from Him to all of creation. The challenge of each day is to make it count for Him, to live for eternal glory, to lay up treasures in heaven. Jerry Thomas in his message last night referenced the hymn, 'The Way of The Cross Leads Home.' I'm all about the new music, but I also love some of the great hymns of our faith. This one communicates a great message for us to remember during this special week leading to Easter. "I must needs go home by the way of the cross, there's no other way but this. I shall neer get sight of the gates of light if the way of the cross I miss. I must needs go on in the blood sprinkled way, the path that the Savior trod, if I ever climb to the heights sublime where the soul is at home with God. Then I bid farewell to the way of the world, to walk in it nevermore, for my Lord says, come, and I seek my home where he waits at the open door. The way of the cross leads home. It is sweet to know as I onward go, the way of the cross leads home.

Hope

2010-03-25T09:39:00.000-07:00

In West Texas last night I drove to the house in a blizzard. This morning the skies are blue. The contrast reminds me that I am not in control of very much. Handling life is like trying to chase a jackrabbit. It's not easy, neat or predictable. This season of the year declares to mankind that there is hope. It's not a hope built on a new health care mandate, or on an upward trend in the stock market. It is a hope that comes from the heart of Almighty God. The Scriptures say this hope is sure and steadfast, firm and secure (Hebrews 6:19). Peter says we are to be ready to give a reason for the hope that lies within us ( 1 Peter 3:15). The reason for this hope is not that everything in life is working out like we want it, or that we have a found a three step solution for all our problems. The reason is Christ. Christ in us the hope of glory (Colossians 1:17). I can't control blizzards, blues skies, government health care, or another person, but I can control what I fix my hope on. As I write this the song on the internet stream is "our God is an awesome God." Let's not forget this truth that brings hope and eternal life. What God did for us in the Son is awesome! He reigns from heaven above with wisdom, power and love! I have hope. So can you-know Jesus Christ, crucified, raised, coming again.

Good Shepherd

2010-02-23T07:03:00.000-08:00

John 10 is a passage full of promise for a world ravaged by fear and anxiety. Our fears are often a direct result of our choice to forget the promises of God and reject His presence. The Good Shepherd illustration is about presence. That presence is the salvation of the sheep. The Good Shepherd does not abandon the sheep to the wolf, thief, or other preditor. The Good Shepherd (there is none good but God), stays with the sheep and this presence is the source of salvation. It's not about the green pastures, still waters or any other blessing. It's about the presence of the Shepherd. The task of the sheep is to listen to the voice of, and follow the lead of the shepherd. There are a lot of voices, most are just noise that intensifies the anxiety and fear. This voice brings assurance, hope, peace, life. It is the voice that shouted from Mt. Calvary. It is the still small voice that connects with the inner ear of mankind. It is the voice of truth, the voice of life. The Shepherd's presence is the promise of life for sheep. I'm learning to trust, listen to his voice, follow his lead, enjoy His presence. I am resisting the corrosive power of fear and anxiety as I rest in His love. Discovering the Good Shepherd is life giving.

FRUSTRATION

2010-02-01T06:39:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I wonder who we are as the body of Christ. This past week the guy in Kansas that killed the abortion doctor was labeled by our news anchor as a 'born again Christian.' I was frustrated when I heard it. The man's own verbage had been frustrating. The last thing He is, is born again. He forgot that Jesus said love your enemies, and whoever thinks about killing someone is guilty of murder. Murdering doctors is no solution to abortion. I was frustrated when one of the talking heads of Christian television recently said God was punishing Haiti with the earthquake. I would think that Haiti is last on the list of needing punishment from God. What about America?! The same group said God was punishing America with the 911 attacks. Frustrating is probably not the best word, but it's a start. How will the world see Christ if this is the messasge that is heard. A born again Christian shoots a doctor in church?! A holy God who is seeking to redeem a lost world turns the most impoverished nation on planet earth up side down? Maybe God is frustrated also, but not with Haiti. How stupid can those who claim to know Him be? As His people we are called to live a life of love. When we do that, I believe the devil is frustrated. When we are truly loving, the nay-sayers against Christianity are silent. The guy in Kansas bought into the world's system of power and control-kill the enemy. The talking head bought into the world's system of hype and sensationalism. Holy Spirit help me to follow Jesus!

Sanctity of Life

2010-01-25T12:56:00.000-08:00

There are many challenges facing America today. One that has nearly disappeared from the public forum is the issue of abortion and the sanctity of life. The slaughter of the unborn continues in the name of convenience, choice and women's health. The right to life is being denied over a million times a year in America. Denied to the most vulnerable of our culture. The voices of men such as Peter Singer, Francis Crick & Margarat Sanger are finding more and more credibility in our culture. Someone said that abortion is a confusing issue. Really it's not, if we can move beyond our selfish view of life. The issue is life. God challenged the people of Israel to 'choose life (Deut. 30:19)." When we embrace abortion, infanticide, euthenasia, we are choosing death. When we lose sight of a Creator who has formed us with a purposeful life in mind (and in America we have lost sight of the Creator), we may devalue life, and even be willing to destroy it. God calls us to choose life. Not just in the realm of abortion and the killing of the unborn, but in everyday situations. When we choose to love, be kind, forgiving, etc., we are choosing life. When we choose to hate, become bitter, we choose death. When we choose to kill the unborn, we vote for death and devalue our own existence. The destruction of the unborn is often a self serving action and it devalues all of humanity. When the will to get my way compels me to destroy another person, death comes to all. The pro-abortion movement is one of death. We must speak out, vote pro-life, and communicate God's grace to those who have been scarred by abortion. Don't shoot doctors, bomb clinics, or throw rocks through windows-those are death choices. Let the body of Christ speak the truth in love and pray for victory. Choose Life!

HOPE

2010-01-06T07:22:00.000-08:00

Reading E. Stanley Jones' In Christ, as one of my devotionals. He states, "my past is past, buried in His love; my present is His, my future unfolds in Him." This statement speaks of the hope we have in Christ. 'In Christ' is the source of life, joy and hope. As we rush into a new year, may we understand that the time we spend focusing on Christ through His Word and in prayer, will feed our hope. The nightly news will continue to be filled with 'bad news.' The political scene will continue to be frustrating. Relationships in life will continue to be challenging. The stresses and strains of everyday living will continue to be experienced. This is reality and in the middle of what at times is a real mess, Christ's people have hope. A hope that is sure, steadfast, anchored in heaven(Heb.6;19). Peter says this is a living hope (1 Pet. 1:3). Paul says this hope stands in the midst of grief and loss (1 Thess. 4:13). He told the Romans this hope does not disappoint (Rom. 5:3). He told Timothy that Christ is our hope (1 Tim. 1:1). My calling is to get close to Christ and stay close. Kyle Strobel says in his book, Metamorpha, "the aim of the Christian life is not independence, but greater dependence; it is intimacy and love, rather than accomplishment and development." Hope comes in one package-Jesus Christ. Christ in us our hope of glory (Col.1:27).

LOVED

2009-12-31T19:04:00.000-08:00

2009 is quickly disappearing. The world is celebrating in its usual manner. I wonder how much of the celebration is merely noise and activity to help ignore the emptiness? As I finish this year I am grateful for God's amazing love for me. A love I am still trying to grasp. A love that is totally independent of my achievments or lack thereof. A love that embraces me and celebrates over me. Just me! A love that will not let me go as one song writer penned. A love that the Father wants to overwhelm me with each day during this coming year. A love that should liberate me to enjoy the journey, embrace obedience, and show that love to others. As this year closes and I move into another part of the journey, I desire to truly know God's love for me, and then to show that same love to others. I know the opportunities for both will be multiple. I know I can easily be distracted by the stuff of this world. I know my own insecurities and doubts will at times hinder me from knowing that love and showing that love. May the Holy Spirit guide me into all truth regarding God's boundless love for me and how I can express that to others.

Christmas

2009-12-14T15:46:00.000-08:00

We've been traveling with Luke during the last few months at Amarillo First Naz. It's been a good journey. We have just scratched the surface of this window into the life of Jesus and the ways of God. A powerful promise begins this Gospel, "nothing is impossible with God (1:37)." Spoken to Mary upon the announcement of the Incarnation, it declared the nature of God-He is Almighty. The same promise is again spoken by Jesus in Luke 18 & the rich young ruler. The same promise, the same Almighty God, but one person got it and one missed it. Mary was willing to be the Lord's servant, the young ruler refused the offer. Mary seemed to have a vision of something beyond herself, the young ruler couldn't get past himself. One would be labeled powerless by our culture, the other one blessed and successful. The Almighty God didn't need the power and wealth of the young ruler. Almighty God was looking for a willing heart. Someone through whom He could display His redemptive power. The impossible is discovered when we make ourselves available to God, for His purposes and glory. Christmas reminds us of Almighty God and the Divine invasion into this broken world. Nothing is impossible with God. Believe & rejoice!

Thankful

2009-11-24T19:54:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe another year has nearly passed. At this time of thanksgiving and then quickly stepping into Advent, Christ's people should lift a shout of praise and thanksgiving to the true and living God as revealed in Jesus Christ. In a day of confusion and darkness, may we shout with the apostle, "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift (2 Cor.9:15). I don't seem to stray far from that passage these days. My attitude must be one of thanksgiving. The reality around wants to drag out the negative and complaining spirit, but in these times Christ still lives. It's never about who is president or what the stock market is doing. The political scene in Christ's time wasn't anything special. Corruption and immorality were pervasive in both the religious and political world. In the midst of the cloud of uncertainty and sinfulness, Christ's people must be cultivating an attitude of praise and thanksgiving. The Lord commands it, but He also provides ample reason for. Make a list of God's blessings you enjoy each day. Begin with the quiet confidence that it is well with your soul.

WONDER / Luke 7:36-50

2009-11-03T06:40:00.000-08:00

Ravi Zacharias in his excellent book, Recapture The Wonder, states that many things are hard to maintain throughout life, one of these being wonder. As Christ followers it is easy to 'take for granted' amazing grace. It is too easy to get stuck in the ruts and routines, and lose the passion and intensity, the joy and exaltation, the wonder and awe of what God has done and is doing for us in Christ.

In Luke 7, this unnamed woman, who spoke no words, is overwhelmed when she comes into contact with Jesus. She knew who Jesus was/is. Simon didn't. His logic, pride, religious prejudice, separated him from the One who could set his heart free. Her tears flowed from the depth of a heart set free from sin and death. Her extravagance found its motivation in the new life that was alive within her. She didn't care what anyone thought, this One who knew who she was had embraced her with mercy, compassion and grace. What He took, she wanted to get rid of anyway. What He gave she had only dreamed about, cried for, long and sought for. He was the fulfillment of it all. It was wonderful.

The widow's might

2009-10-26T20:41:00.000-07:00

I can continue to wrestle with the priority of prayer. The call to prayer in Scripture is clear. Prayer was a priority for Christ, but he didn't live in our fast paced world of noise, clutter and busyness. Poor excuses I know and I don't want to live in the world Christ did. Wesley went to bed early, got up early and prayed. He found power in the Gospel message we often don't see today, or should I say, I don't see today. Thousands came to faith in Christ through Wesley's influence. The reports of the power of God moving on hearts during his open air meetings, and church meetings makes me know we are missing someONE. At one point I thought maybe I was beginning to get a handle on it, but the last few years it seems to be out of my reach again. Oh yes I pray. Faithfully pray and yes more than at meals-in fact sometimes I miss the meal prayer. It's the intercessory, deep, extended, let God move on me type of praying that I know I need and the church needs. Sometimes I get there, or at least close, but all too often I get finished and sense God hasn't even started. In Luke 18 Jesus calls us to pray and not quit. Then he tells of the widow's might. She didn't quit pounding on the judge's door. She prevailed until the answer came. God is not deaf, He is not unwilling as the judge, He is not hard hearted, but He wants us to pray about His will being done. Too often we pray about our stuff. Let's begin to cry out to God to join him in what He is doing and see a great harvest. Wherever you are in the prayer journey don't quit. I am convinced with Wesley, "God does nothing except in answer to prayer." Rally behind your pastor in prayer. Start a prayer band in your home with some friends. Let's become destitute and desperate like the widow-for His sake. A little book that helped me years ago is Dick Eastman's, The Hour That Changes The World.

Presence

2009-10-11T05:06:00.001-07:00

I recently read the blog of another individual calling the church to a revival of personal holiness (Lee Grady/Fire In My Bones). It almost seems a paradox, that we would have to call the church to personal holiness-this should be the norm, this should be our daily pursuit and desire, and practice. We have embraced a cheap grace and a sinning religion. The church in America knows nothing of paying a price for anything, and scoffs at paying a price for personal holiness. I was in a meeting of pastors in a city where I was holding a revival, and a pastor asked a solemn question of the group. "When was the last time any of us gutted it out and battled our way through a temptation." Too many simply give in and attempt to go on. The going on is most difficult when the wheels have come off the wagon. Let's not minimize the effect of sinning-it brings death one way or another. I'm re-reading Tozer's classic, The Pursuit of God. In it he states that God meant us to see Him and live with Him and draw our life from His smile. But we have fled from that presence as Adam fled and hid in the garden. It is the realization of that awesome Presence that should make us mindful that holiness is not an option, and that His Presence, His manifest Presence is the key to that holiness. His holiness consuming us becomes the path to our personal holiness. O God take me to the cross, Your holiness is my desire.

Leadership

2009-09-15T14:15:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I have the privilege of facilitating a class at Amarillo College on leadership. As one author states, 'leadership is an art.' When I first read the title of that book, I was startled, because I am not very artistic. One thing I have learned about leadership, it is a challenge. To be a leader, one must be a learner. I don't know that I am a leader, but I do know I want to be a learner. Pastoring is a task that requires one to become a leader, and carries some interesting tensions. To be a servant leader, a shepherd leader is the Biblical model. The church growth movement and the rise of the mega-church in America has thrown the 'ceo leader' model into the mix. In a culture that exalts Donald Trump, and a church culture that exalts the one with the largest attendance, the leadership model of Jesus is often overlooked. In preparing for the class, and compiling a list of leadership definitions, the following by Leith Anderson in his book, Leadership That Works, got my attention.

"The truth is, very few leaders are heros. Most leaders work quietly, and their effectiveness comes as a result of a long series of wise decisions and good behavior. Most leaders are known in a very limited sphere."

scripting

2009-08-06T15:46:00.000-07:00

I had lunch with a pastor friend & we were talking shop. The concept of 'scripting' came up from his side of the table. He identified how we often set the agenda with our pattern of thinking even before the plot begins to unfold. We establish that something will be chaotic, or a failure even before the opening round. The Word of God tells us to take every thought captive to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5) and to focus our thoughts on things that are excellent (Philippians 4:8). Ironically the script has already been written. It is a script of victory, ability, wisdom and fruitfulness. It is following Christ. The crowd thought the cross was the end of the story, Jesus of Nazareth was a loser, a poser, a liar. The script had been written, Jesus had referred to it often, the prophets of old declared it, and the empty tomb confirms it. How I think should follow the way of the Lord, the way of victory. I need to apply that to daily situations, relationships, and choices. I am more than a conqueror-in Christ. Out with the negative scripts about myself, life and others.

Surrender

2009-07-12T14:38:00.000-07:00

E. Stanley Jones is one of my favorite reads. Deep, insightful, coming from a heart that is full of the Holy Spirit and a life lived for Christ. In his book "In Christ" he is speaking of surrender & says this,

"Low at His (Christ's) feet we stand straight before everything else. Moreover, His will is our freedom. Bound to Him we walk the earth free. When we are most His, we are most our own."

He then prays. "O my Lord and Savior, thou dost bind me to thy heart and set me free at the same moment-free to love, to live, to grow, to enjoy with joy unspeakable and full of glory. I open my arms to thy bondage, for my heart wants freedom. Amen."

His final statement: "If I don't surrender to God, I will surrender to things."

The ways of the Kingdom of God are not the ways of man. Victory comes through surrender. The overflowing life through complete consecration. Freedom through bondage to Christ and the daily doing of His will without hesitation or reservation.

Reaching for the light

2009-06-01T08:56:00.000-07:00

I'm in Spencer, Indiana doing a revival. Staying at McCormick Creek State park. Over ten miles of walking/running trails. This morning and yesterday did a little of both and breathed in the awesome glory of God's creation. Trees that reached 100 feet straight into the air, straining to gain the sunlight and stay alive. The trees paint an interesting picture. As they grow, lower branches are shed, and the branches and leaves are at the top where the light is. The lower limbs are basically worthless for the absortion of light. What a lesson for the Christ follower. As we grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ, as we reach for the heights, we must seperate ourselves from the things of lessor value. Paul says we are to have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness-reach for the light (Ephesians 4:11). It is the daily challenge of discerning what is the best. Of choosing the things that bring me closer to the light, that lift me from the darkness into the marvelous light of His holy presence.

New Covenant

2009-05-05T07:40:00.000-07:00

Easter has come and we are moving toward the Ascension of Christ and Pentecost. The picture is becoming clear as we enter the era of the New Covenant. Christ has opened a new and living way through His perfect sacrifice. Almighty God has torn his heart wide open and screamed at a sinful, selfish world, "Whosoever will may come!" The barriers, restrictions, and limitations have been removed. Tax collectors, Samaritans, lepers, the demon possessed, Gentiles all have open access to the heart of the Father. This New Covenant is centered in the person of Jesus Christ, and becomes the pathway to life for mankind. The God who is a consuming fire has come to us in the grace and truth of the Son. "He who has seen me has seen the Father." The New Covenant provides a new heart, acceptance into the family of God, an itimate relationship with the Creator of the universe, and the forgiveness of sins. Those who have experienced this new life in Christ should be shouting, "Hallelujah!" Church, let's hear it-Hallelujah, the Lamb has won!

The Night Before Easter

2009-04-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house...A familiar line from a poem about another favorite American holiday. Tonight is the night before Easter and a whole lot of people have forgotten what it's all about. Christians are people rooted in the resurrection. "Jesus Christ lives" is the heartbeat of our faith, hope and the reason we love. Apart from the resurrection our faith is futile and we are still dead in sin-so says the Apostle Paul. Easter is not a holiday, an extended weekend from the school routine, or an opportunity to give candy and color eggs. Easter is the declaration of Almighty God that Satan has been defeated, the keys of the Kingdom are back in the hands of Christ, and there is hope for all mankind. As we know there is no resurrection without their first being a death. Praise be to the Son who was obedient to death on the cross. Hallelujah to the Holy and Righteous One who became sin for us that we might become the righteousness of God. This One wears the scars, holds the keys, and wears the crown. This One lives to bring life to whosoever will. This night before Easter my heart is humbled by the incredible working of Almighty God to restore the relationship with mankind. This night before Easter I rejoice with the Apostle Paul in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ-that though He was rich yet for our sakes He became poor so that we through His poverty might become rich (2 Corinthians 8:9). This night before Easter I live because He lives. Thank you Lord!

If / The Jesus Way

2009-03-06T20:57:00.000-08:00

I'm challenged by the simple word, 'if'. It prefaces the kingdom statement by Jesus that defines the 'Jesus way.' If anyone would come after me...the choice is mine, ours. God has set before us life and death, and He has worked overtime to get us to choose life. If you want to be part of the Kingdom of God...sometimes we lower the bar on salvation to such a level that the work of salvation becomes an end in itself. From what we read in Scripture, salvation is entering a covenant relationship with the true and living God. A covenant that overflows with blessing, but also carries responsibility. Sometimes I sense the American version of Christianity embraces the blessing part, but rejects the responsibility. Salvation is free through Christ, but it is also an introduction to a life that is costly. Following Jesus will cost your life, on a daily basis. If you want...too often we want to ride the fence...too often we want to love the world and Jesus too...too often we want to settle down into a I've been saved mentality and that's all I need. Covenant demands more. Covenant is more that merely being saved. The passage in Matthew 16:24-27 to which we have been referring climaxes with the invitation to lose our life for His sake. I don't think that is an option-it is the Jesus way. Let's walk in His steps.

mercy vs judgment

2009-02-12T14:44:00.000-08:00

As the new year starts I am working my way through James. I recently heard someone say they wish James was not in the Bible because it's too tough. There are mutiple issues addressed by James, but I am coming to believe the basis of it all is 2:13. This is summarized with the statement, "mercy triumphs over judgment!" Watch your mouth! Love your neighbor! Take care of widows and orphans! Don't discriminate against the poor! Find the wisdom that comes from above! Submit to God! James is practical and hard hitting. Jesus showed mercy from the cross but was given no mercy at the cross. Those around heaped a cheap judgment upon the sinless Son of God. It's too easy to judge someone by their appearance. The Lord looks on the heart and could care less what kind of car you drive, or how much money you make. It's too easy to judge, be critical, be selective. Mercy reaches through all the stuff to the heart of someone else. It's what God through Christ did for each of us. Without mercy...I hate to think about it. Jesus spoke often of his choice of mercy over sacrifice. Matthew's gospel carries key verses concerning. Christ's people must be specialists in mercy, not judgment. James closes the letter with a couple quick reminders. "The Judge is standing at the door (5:9)." "The Lord is full of compassion and mercy (5:11)." Yes we all need that! Finally James calls us to an important work of mercy-the restoration of a fallen comrade. Let's not pass judgment, but show mercy. It's the Jesus way.

Prince of Peace

2008-12-29T08:32:00.000-08:00

Christ entered a world filled with war, strife, prejudice, injustice and hostility. His message created unrest, turmoil and anger. During his ministry there seemed to be constant tension, down to the final episode of the cross. Into that picture the bold proclamation was made, peace on earth. The irony of it all is that His cross became the bridge between man and God by which we discover peace. This is a peace with God through Christ. A peace that is found when we repent of our sins, and turn from sin to walk in obedience to Christ. His peace extends into everyday life. It is a precious gift of His presence in us. As we recieve His grace, yield to the control of the Holy Spirit, stand on His promises, we find a peace that passes all understanding. This peace is a calm assurance that it is well with my soul, that the Lord is in control, and that His grace is sufficient. It is the peace of God as we walk in obedience to His word. The world around may be exploding but you have found a resting place. You have found the cleft in the rock and are aware of the everlasting arms of the Father. Isaiah 48:17-18 identifies obedience as a key to this peace. If I am obedient, then I am trusting in Christ. That trust is the foundation of this peace. If I want peace, then I must want Christ more than anything else. If I want peace, then I must walk in obedience to His word. As we end one year and begin another, let's focus our desire on the person of Christ and our determination to be obedient to the word of Christ.

Everlasting Father / Isaiah 9:6

2008-12-17T19:10:00.001-08:00

Some translate this incredible title, 'Father of Eternity.' This One transcends all that has been and all that will be. Out of eternity into time He came for a brief period. If you have seen me you have seen the Father (John 14). What a revelation! The death of my Dad on 12/30/03 was a challenging time, and it still carries its challenges. There are multiple times when I would cherish a word, a hug, a day together. His presence made a difference. I was blessed to have such an excellent father. But he is no longer available, except through the precious gift of memory. But this Father is eternal. There is no end to His life giving presence. This is the Father who provides. He is Yahweh-Jireh (Gen.22:14). This Father is the life giving Father, and the life He gives is eternal. This life flows out of His person, His being. The everlasting Father provides everlasting life. The Son given, the Child born is the life of the Father.

Abba Father: I embrace your love for me. I thank you and rejoice in your provision of amazing grace and unending mercy. I cherish the privilege of being your son. Thank you for my Elder brother who has redeemed me and set me free from sin and death.

Mighty God / Isaiah 9:6

2008-12-10T07:46:00.000-08:00

The One whose presence we cherish today, was and is the revelation of God's omnipotence on behalf of mankind. He is the God who conquers. Christ overcame the world (John 16:33), and triumphed over all the powers of darkness (Colossians 3:15). The challenge is to submit to this power. Mankind cannot get free of sin, guilt, despair, and death through self effort. A Savior is needed. Born for us a Savior who is Jesus Christ. Divine intervention. His counsel is wonderful, leading us out of confusion. His omnipotence brings order out of chaos. Mankind's best effort still leaves the world full of chaos and confusion. The wisdom and strength of man cannot fix the problem. The heart surrendered to Christ finds order, peace, well being. Because Jesus Christ is God in the flesh, He can forgive sin, defeat Satan, liberate people from the power of evil, restore the broken heart, and bring life out of death. He is able! He is able! Let us give him the right to make the best of us. Charles Wesley said it this way. "The name of Jesus is a tower that hides my life above. You can, you will my helper be, my confidence is all in You, the gracious God of love."

Advent/Isaiah 9:6

2008-12-10T07:33:00.000-08:00

I have been remiss with blogging. We'll do a little Christmas catch-up today. Our focus is the great passage in Isaiah 9:6. Each title brings light to the person of Jesus Christ. Meditate upon these and allow the Holy Spirit to apply them to your journey of faith today.

Christ is the Wonderful Counselor. This counselor not only gives counsel that is wonderful, for it is truth, but the counselor himself is wonderful. It is the wonder of the Word become flesh. The eternal God becoming man, emptying himself, stepping out of eternity into time. The wonder of the whole picture begins by focusing our attention upon Jesus Christ who is more wonderful than my mind can conceive. Because he is wonderful, because His counsel is wonderful, His kingdom is free from confusion. Those who follow Him walk in the light, are led in paths of righteousness, and become like a tree planted by streams of living water. Instead of confusion there is courage, confidence, and conviction. His counsel ignites hope, brings strength, instills confidence, fosters freedom. His counsel is a wisdom that comes from above. It is 'pure, peace loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere (James 3:17)." He gives wisdom from above, eternal truth that enables victorious living today. The 'fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Let us cultivate the habit of 'inquiring of the Lord.' Moses prayed a simple prayer that directs us in this path. "Lord teach me your ways so that I may know you and continue to find favor with you (Exodus 33:13)."

America

2008-11-03T07:29:00.001-08:00

We are on the eve of another presidential election. The media makes it a mess and candidates make promises they can never keep. Politics and religion were the death of Jesus Christ. Both are driven by a selfish motive that seeks to manipulate others to fulfill a personal agenda. My greatest concern for this election revolves around the direction our country could take regarding key moral issues such as abortion, homosexuality, and the definition of marriage. These issues are deeper than politics and reflect a greater chasm in the heart of America. We have become godless and immoral, embracing the wrong and rejecting what is right. Selfishness reigns in our nation. Solomon gave this directive: "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people (Proverbs 14:34). Even Solomon did not use his wisdom to make proper moral choices and follow the directives God had given for the king (Deut.17:14). Selfishness is not a new issue. Christ died to set us free from the destructive force of selfishness. This selfishness makes truth relative, something driven by personal opinion and preference.

At this time in America my heart is heavy for the church of Jesus Christ that is beset with selfishness. Christ's people must repent, and embrace God's call to righteousness and holiness. We have abandoned the ways of the Lord, and followed our own selfish agendas. We will get a new president, but that is not the solution. We need a new church in America. A church that is focused on Christ, following Christ and displaying Christ. God forgive us for making grace cheap and obedience optional. Let the church rise, and with a pure heart and clean hands proclaim to a watching world, Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life-Follow Him!

A Beautiful Thing

2008-10-21T07:48:00.000-07:00

Mark 14 records the story of Christ being anointed by a woman. A similar story is recorded in Mt. 26 and Lu. 7. Everytime I encounter this episode, my heart is challenged. It was at a critical time in the life of Jesus. It was an invasion of a situation that was stale with hypocrisy and selfishness. It was beautiful and stands in stark contrast to the selfishness and sin that surrounded Christ. It was true worship, and the Father is seeking worshipers. The Father is seeking the beautiful. The heart that is humble before Him. An aroma filled the house that made many uncomfortable. Words escape me concerning this picture; however, the Holy Spirit always uses it to search my heart, expose my motives, and question my authenticity. That she was willing to be so brave, transparent, and vulnerable. That she was willing to appear foolish, and to take such a risk to honor Christ. I have a hard time lifting my arms in praise of Christ in corporate worship. In preaching in different churches each week, it seems hard for people to step forward and come to a place of prayer. It seems as if we are stuck, entrenched, and afraid of what others might think. If there is going to be a revival in the church in America, the church must do something beautiful. We must humble ourselves before the Lord and ask Him to lift us up. We must, through the work of the Holy Spirit, become true worshipers. My prayer is that in the end, the life I live in this flesh will have been something beautiful for the Lord.

Our Father

2008-10-10T20:41:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow my oldest daughter gets married. She is a beautiful young woman, and has chosen a first class young man for her husband. It has been an awesome responsibility being the 'man' in her life during these years. My shortcomings and failures in that task, point to our need to be intimately connected with our Father in heaven. Sometimes human failure creates a barrier to the development of that relationship. The good news is, the Father in heaven has gone to the most extreme measures to reveal Himself. He opened wide his heart through the Son. All the barriers were removed, and whosoever will may come. His heart is wide open. It is a heart full of grace and mercy. This holy Father embraces us in our darkest hour and promises to transform us into the image of His Son. As Jesus said, "If you have seen me you have seen the Father."
What a picture Christ brought into focus! Let's move through our excuses, barriers, and selfishness and seek to know our Father in heaven. That relationship is life to the fullest.

9/11-Remember

2008-09-12T09:02:00.000-07:00

Last night I watched the history channel's chronicle of 9/11/01. For America it was an aweful day. Seven years later, the dust has settled, and we have moved past the immediacy of the tragedy. Since that day there have been many more tragedies, millions have died, war has raged, ethnic cleansing continues to ravage nations, the unborn continue to be slaughtered and on and on the list could go. There is so much death and destruction that we become numb to it. Unless it touches us directly, we can merely change the channel and get mired down in our own little story. In American history we mark certain days to help us 'remember.' If we truly remember, it should impact how we live today. If the remembering is merely a ceremony, then we have forgotten. The remembering should make me a different person today and tomorrow. The remembering should move me to action today, tomorrow. The remembering should impact more than my emotions. Paul told Timothy to 'Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David (2 Tim. 2:8). In Luke 22:19 Jesus said the taking of the bread was to be done in remembrance of Him. (Paul emphasized the same in 1 Corinthians 10). The whole picture of the Lord's supper is to remember Christ's life given for us. The issue before us is this. Does the remembering impact my journey today? Does the remembering of the Christ, His sacrifice and life, make any difference in my attitudes and actions today? Jesus said the Holy Spirit would remind us of everthing He said (John 14:26). Peter multiple times in His epistles speaks of reminding his audience of the truth they have received in Christ. As Americans may remembering 9/11 make us more diligent as citizens. As followers of Jesus Christ, may remembering Christ and His life compel us to excellence in our daily journey.

Political Indigestion

2008-08-25T15:02:00.000-07:00

America, like the rest of the world, is in need of true leadership. Political rhetoric flows like a tidal wave during these days of the presidential race. Promises of bigger government, higher taxes, tax rebates, etc. are laughable at best. Mankind drifts farther and farther away from the utopia we believe we can create. We cling to the old 70's song "Imagine" and imagine if we can just elect the right person, the train will get back on the tracks and arrive at the right destination. We live in a broken world, full of injustice, prejudice, hatred and sin. All a result of man's selfishness and refusal to submit to God's Word and authority (God as revealed to us in Jesus Christ). Paul says in Romans 8 that this world is a place of 'groaning' and 'frustration.' We would all agree. The solution to this, is not another politician, but focusing our attention upon Jesus Christ. Christ is the leader whose footprints we must follow. I'm sure this won't happen on a world wide, or national scale; however, it can happen in your daily journey and mine. I have discovered as I seek to follow Christ, I find a peace and joy in the midst of the groaning and frustration. In fact, earlier in Romans 8, Paul speaks of the life lived under the control of the Holy Spirit that brings life and peace. No politician can produce life or peace. The selfishness and sinfulness of mankind will overrule mankind's best effort to produce life and peace. Yes, we must work politically to facilitate life and peace on planet earth; however, without a firm foundation of faith in Christ, our best effort is sinking sand. As a follower of Christ I must model a different lifestyle in the midst of the groaning and frustration. A lifestyle of hope, peace, and joy. A lifestyle that is looking forward to a new heaven and new earth, the home of righteousness.

Sinners or Saints

2008-08-04T08:36:00.000-07:00

Listening to "Christian" radio my spirit was accosted again by the adamant exhortation from the preacher that we are all just sinners. How tragic if that is the best the powerful gospel can do! No where in the N.T. does it refer to Christ's followers as sinners. Yes, it does reference that a Christian may sin, but this is not the daily pattern (1 Jn.2:1). Paul says that we are dead to sin (Rom.6). In 1 Cor.10:13 he says that with every temptation there is a way of escape. We don't have to commit the sin. 1 John 2 states that these things are written that we not sin and he goes on to say that everyone who is born of God does not commit sin. Sin is death-flee from it. The indwelling Holy Spirit is the source of power and wisdom to enable us to walk in the light and to say no to ungodliness and worldly pleasures (Titus 2:14). I'm no longer a sinner, I am a saint. Praise the Lord! Even the troubled Corinthians were called saints in Christ Jesus (2 Cor. 1:1, Eph.1:1, Col.1:2, Rom. 1:7). Our behavior as followers of Christ must be different from what it was when we followed our carnal, selfish desires. We are new creatures in Christ, the old has gone. We are not sinnners, we are children of God (1 Jn.3:1). When we speak of sin, we speak of willful transgression. Adam and Eve did not make a mistake, they made a choice not to obey God. Don't cheapen grace, and don't cheapen the powerful gospel by embracing the false teaching that we are all just sinners. Praise the Lord that by His grace He has transferred me from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light. To live in sin is to live in darkness, rebellion, disobedience and under the judgment of God. That's not who Christians are, nor how they are to live ( 1 Thess. 4-9). Paul's testimony concerning his lifestyle speaks of holiness and righteousness (1Thess.2:10). Let's stop excusing what makes God sick. Let's make the choice to be who we are, saints in the Lord. I am a recipient and participant in the abundant provision of grace so that I can reign in life (Rom.5:17). I don't want to live in sin. I want to walk in holiness with Christ. I know what sin does, I want to be a slave to God and be blessed with holiness and eternal life (Rom.6:22). Dear Christian, do not let sin reign in your mortal body...do not offer the parts of your body to sin...but rather offer yourselves to God (Rom. 6:11-14). When you look in the mirror, don't see a sinner, see a child of God, redeemed, set free, forgiven, cleansed, sanctified, filled with the Spirit, and empowered to walk in the light.

Fatboy

2008-07-25T20:58:00.000-07:00

Today I was blessed by a dear brother who allowed me to ride his 2003 HD Fatboy through the curves and hills of Kentucky for four hours. My nose got sun burned, but I was constantly reminded that Almighty God knows what He is doing. Creation declares His glory the Psalmist says and I say Amen! Accident, chance, big bang??? Let's admit that it's too fantastic for random chance. As I travel and speak in churches I am often blessed by someone's generosity to allow me to straddle their bike for an afternoon. It's one of the serendipities of the traveling preacher. Upstate NY, Tennessee, southern Ohio, Pacific NW, Florida coast, mountains of Colorado, the list goes on. This creation is awesome and God's people need to take notice. I live in the flat lands of West Texas. No trees, no mountains and streams and not many curves in the road; however, everyday God paints a fresh picture in the morning and evening with the radiant sun of the wide horizon and open sky. "The fool says in his heart there is no God (Ps. 14). The heavens declare God's glory and the earth if full of His unfailing love. He is our help and shield, let us rejoice and be glad (Psalm 33, 8)

Holiness

2008-07-13T18:28:00.000-07:00

Holiness is not an option. Because God is holy, those who chose to follow Christ must walk on the highway of holiness. Holiness is not a set of rules, it is Christlikeness. It is everything beautiful and pleasing to the Father. Oswald Chambers in Still Higher for His Highest (12/1) states it so well. "A born again soul is condemned to holiness; he is not at liberty to do what he likes but only what God likes, a bondslave to Jesus, my relationship to God first, second, and third all the time.

Is this the impossible dream? No! This is the way of life and peace, let's walk in it. Let's embrace God's clear mandate and call to holiness. Let's humble ourselves under His mighty hand and allow Him to lift us up to His standard. The church of Jesus Christ in America is in desperate need of a fresh enthusiasm about God's call to holiness and a vital commitment to see this picture come into focus in our daily discipleship. Come Holy Spirit we need You to cleanse, empower, control and lead us.

Gratitude

2008-06-04T15:06:00.000-07:00

I was reading the Exodus story and the whole picture of complaining against God struck a fresh note with me. How easy to be negative and worried. How easy to allow one's spirit to gravitate toward complaining. The Israelites seemed to specialize in complaining while on the journey to the promised land. What they failed to see was that where they were, was not where God was planning on them to be. God was leading them into the promised land, but there was a journey to make through some treacherous territory before arriving in the land flowing with milk and honey. Where they were was not the final destination. It was not to be their dwelling place. It was a place of passage that demanded trust in the Lord and faith in His leadership. It was a part of the picture that demanded vision beyond the moment and the hardships that were being encountered. Too often in life complaining is prompted when we forget this is not the place Christ has prepared. We are on the journey and must continue to move forward to take hold of the promised land of the Lord. Paul and Silas in jail were able to sing praises because they realized it wasn't their final destination, it was a place of passage. As we are 'passing through' let us guard against complaining and develop a dispostion of gratitude. In everything give thanks for this is God's will ( 1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Rest-Again

2008-05-19T19:58:00.000-07:00

Psalm 116:7 Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the Lord has been good to you (NIV). The once more part jumped out at me. How often I allow the rest to disappear. I give place to fear, doubt, negative thinking, etc. Those things that steal the rest away from me. The choice to rejoice in the goodness of God. The choice to 'rest in His almighty power.' The choice to rest in the finished work of Christ and the promised future for the people of Christ. Lord, forgive me for not enjoying the rest. The opportunity for the rest is always there, I must embrace it. I must fix my eyes on Jesus and set my mind on the things that are excellent. May the Holy Spirit help me to be discerning concerning those things that disturb the peace of God. Thank you Lord, you are good to me.

Pentecost

2008-05-10T08:59:00.000-07:00

Jesus promised the presence of 'another counselor'. One who would be in us and would be forever with us. The blessed Holy Spirit is that person and presence. Jesus was God with us, but the Holy Spirit is God in us. What an incredible provision of the New Covenant! The Holy Spirit is to fill the believer. Be filled with the Spirit is more than a command, this is the key to vitality and victory. We should seek to be filled with the Spirit and discover this Divine provision. This Divine possession of the human heart results in purity and power. To be filled with the Spirit is to allow God to cleanse our hearts from all else. From carnal selfishness, from selfish arguments and excusses our heart is to be cleansed. The goal of the new covenant in the blood of Christ is that we would be wholly God's. There must be a complete consecration of all we are to the Lord before we will begin to taste this blessed fullness. The great hindrance is carnal selfishness. Let us pray with the apostle, "God of peace sanctify us completely (1 Thess. 5:23). This is God's provision for His people. Let's not sell ourselves short. Be filled with the Spirit!

Power of Pentecost

2008-05-05T19:27:00.000-07:00

As we move through the week leading to Pentecost, we want to focus on the promise of power. As I am thinking about this incredible reality, and the promises surrounding this in God's Word, here are a couple thoughts to help us get a handle on this truth.

This power of the Holy Spirit filling and cleansing the human heart is the promise of the new covenant. He will put His Spirit in us (Ezekiel 36:27). Man discovers a source of life outside of himself. Christ lives in us through the Holy Spirit.

This is the power of God to make the heart pure. This is essential because we are God's dwelling place, His temple. Purity, holiness is essential for God's dwelling (1 Cor. 6:19)

This is the power of God to make a man's spirit strong. This provides the ability to pursue and fulfill the Father's will. We are not of those who shrink back (Hebrews 10:39), we are those who press through to find and fulfill the Father's will. Without the Holy Spirit's powerful fullness, the flesh becomes weary and retreats in the hour of difficulty.

This is the power of God to make a man's life fruitful. John 15 identifies this as God's calling. The fruitful life will bring glory to the Father. The fruitful life will bring life, healing, hope into the world around us. This fruitful life is evidence of the Spirit's power. It is a beautiful picture. A Divine work that points others to the Holy and Righteous One (Gal.5:22).

Power and Pentecost

2008-05-04T20:09:00.001-07:00

As we approach Pentecost Sunday, I have thinking about the all powerful God. The promise of Pentecost is the promise of power through the infilling presence of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8). What about this power? What is the purpose of this power? Do I know this power on a daily basis? Following Pentecost the disciples exhibited new power in multiple areas of their daily life. It was a power that made them different and enabled them to fulfill the mandate of the Master. Maybe I short circuit the whole promise of power by attempting to plug into this power for selfish purposes. Everyday I am reminded of my need for power. I rejoice that a primary purpose of this power is the transformation of my person from the inside out. When I pray for power may the purpose of the prayer be a desire to be a different person. Pentecost, the fullness of the Holy Spirit, the cleansing fire of His presence, the power that comes when He is in control is all about making me like Christ. 2 Peter 1:3 captures this. His divine power...for life and godliness through our knowledge of Christ...so that... I'll let you read the rest of the verses, it's shocking and full of hope for our daily journey.

When Christ Comes Again

2008-04-20T07:01:00.000-07:00

When Christ comes again, He will be looking for something...HIMSELF! He will be looking for a people that bear His image, that reflect His glory, that are walking in His holiness. A people who are filled with the Spirit. A people whose desire is the Father's will, whose hearts are pure, and whose lives reflect the awesome power of amazing grace. Paul gives a picture of what we are to look like in Ephesians. Chapters 4 and 5 reveal what Christ is looking for today among those of us who wear His name. We are to live a life worthy of the calling we have received (4:1). Paul insists that our life must be different than it was before we came to know Christ (4:17). We have been created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. What a privilege! May this be our prayer, our cry, our heart's desire! Paul employs the picture of 'walking' or 'living' to communicate this changed life. We are to walk in love (5:2), walk in the light (5:8), walk in wisdom (5:15), walk in strength (6:10). This is possible only through the Spirit's cleansing and control-be filled with the Spirit (5:18). Christ is looking for those who do more than wear His name. He is looking for those who follow His steps and reflect His glory. Let's find out what pleases the Lord (5;10), and through the leadership of the Holy Spirit understand what the Lord's will is (5:17). He is looking for Himself.

Convincing Proof

2008-04-06T18:25:00.000-07:00

Christ is alive. Luke in Acts 1:3 does not make an extensive list, but communicates the fact that Jesus of Nazareth was alive. After His suffering, after Christ fulfilled the Father's will, there was a strategic period of time between the resurrection and ascension. The convincing proofs(Acts 1:3) came in simple ways such as eating with them, walking with them, helping them fish, etc. The resurrected Jesus walked among them, continued to instruct them concerning key issues, helped the defeated ones to press forward, and exhorted the disciples to embrace the challenge that was before them. In daily life they were needing to learn to live as if Jesus was alive, and He is! We need to live each day with a keen awareness of the living Christ. If we will allow, if we will look for, if we will expect, the convincing proofs can be still be seen. Living with an awareness of His presence is a key to worship, holiness, discipleship and all of life. The Scriptural record of Christ's post resurrection appearances were in non-spectacular and everyday activity. That's where I need Him most-in everyday life. That's where He wants to make an impact-in everyday life. He will be with you always (Mt. 28:20). Let's practice the presence of the living Christ. Let's live with a keen awareness that He is here. Let's refuse to succomb to the noise, busyness and distractions. Fix your thoughts on Jesus (Hebrews 3:1)

Post Resurrection Living

2008-03-28T12:25:00.001-07:00

Millions filled churches across America this past Sunday to celebrate Christ's victory over sin, death, Satan and hell. Musicals, pageants, and simple sermons about this life transforming event sounded out across this nation. But Sunday wasn't merely for Sunday. Easter Sunday is for everyday. It's not merely that the Lamb has won, but are we living in that victory today? Because of the resurrection of Christ we are more than conquerors today. It doesn't matter how great the service was on Sunday, it's about today. So what the stone was rolled away. Am I allowing that same power to strengthen me to resist temptation and walk in holy obedience to Christ and live in holy love for others today? Paul prayed that the Ephesians would know this resurrection power in daily living (Ephesians 1:19). Paul was not merely speaking of a head knowledge, the word he uses speaks of an experiential knowledge. He was speaking about a power that was working in everyday life. He references this power multiples times in Ephesians. The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is about everyday life. Christianity is about everyday life. Post resurrection living is about discovering this power for today. That's where I need it, I imagine you do too. Let's believe!

Great Salvation

2008-03-22T04:44:00.000-07:00

On this day following the indescribable gift, let us meditate upon God's amazing grace, the Son's sacrificial obedience, and the high cost of this great salvation. This great love should motivate us to consecrate ourselves with great joy and without hesitation to the Father. Let us follow the path of the Son who was obedient to death, even death on the cross. Reflect upon the two quotes and the verse from God's Word.

"Knowing God without knowing our own wretchedness makes for pride. Knowing our own wretchedness without knowing God makes for despair. Knowing Jesus Christ strikes the balance because He shows us both God and our own wretchedness (Blaise Pascal)."

"What God asks is a will which will no longer be divided between him and any creature, a will pliant in his hands,which neither desires anything nor refuses anything, which wants without reservation everything which he wants, and which never, under any pretext, wants anything which he does not want (Fenelon)."

"For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for our sake He became poor that we through His poverty might become rich (2 Corinthians 8:9)."

Great Salvation/Good Friday

2008-03-21T06:29:00.000-07:00

The consumer mindset rules the church in America. We have taken the cross of Christ and transformed it into something nice. There is nothing nice about the cross of Christ. As Paul said it, is foolishness to some, a stumbling block to others. Many will not embrace the cross because it will not take them where they want to go. How can we embrace the cross and find power, wealth, and the applause of man? Paul gloried in the cross. He counted everything else as rubbish, except to know Christ and Him crucified. The consumer mindset conflicts with the cross. The consumer mindset has my comfort, happiness and success at its core. The cross has the will of the Father and the glory of the Father at its core. The cross demands that I die to my selfish agenda and embrace the Father's will without hestitation or reservation. The cross is not a place to strike a bargain. The cross is not a place to make a deal. The cross of Christ is painful, embarrassing, confrontational, and revealing. The cross of Christ exposes our sins and sinfulness. The cross of Christ is life's major intersection. Here I choose life or death, sin or holiness, forgiveness or condemnation, Christ or self. Christ calls us to 'follow Him.' The destination of that path takes us to the cross. There we have the privilege of being crucified with Christ so that we are no longer living for self but for Christ. Then we discover the privilege of sharing in His redemptive purpose as the power of His resurrection flows through us to a broken world. Then by the grace of God, we transition from being a consumer to being Christian.

Great Salvation

2008-03-20T06:46:00.000-07:00

On this special Thursday as we move closer to the death and resurrection of Christ, let us be in awe at the provision of the new covenant. Through His death and resurrection, through Christ's eternal priesthood and the power of His endless life, we are privileged to a salvation that has no limits. Christ is able to save completely, to the uttermost those who come to God through Him (Hebrews 7:25). The key is 'through Him'. Christ is the source of this great salvation, for all practical purposes, Christ IS this salvation. Because He holds the keys of death and hell, because all authority and power on earth and in heaven are His, HE IS ABLE to save completely those who come to God THROUGH HIM! There is no plan B, we don't need a plan B, we need to fix our eyes on Jesus. He is able to save us completely so that we can throw off every weight that hinders, so that we can be free from every besetting sin and run with perseverance the race set before us (Hebrews 12). The Son has come to set us free. He has come to make us more than conquerors. He has come to enable us to reign in life (Romans 5:17,8:37, Jn.8:34). He is bringing many sons to glory and He is able to do that very thing. He is the Author and Finisher of this faith we know. He is interceding for us to connect our need to the Father's supply. Our task is to rest in His finished work. Our calling is to believe He is able. Our hope is this great salvation. Don't stop short pilgrim! He is able! Lay aside every weight and every sin, and with great joy and full confidence run the race.

Great Salvation

2008-03-17T19:11:00.000-07:00

Hebrews 1 speaks loud and clear, "In these last days God has spoken to us in His Son." The indescribable gift as Pauls says. The Son is our salvation. He is God in the flesh, greater than angels, greater than Moses, the One who lives forever, whose kingdom is unshakable, whose provision is perfect, whose sacrifice complete. The Son is the Great High Priest of the New Covenant in His blood. He intercedes to execute that covenant in the human heart. He stands in the gap and becomes the bridge between man's mess and God's miracle. When God is the source of the salvation we need look no further. Fix your eyes on the Son. When God is the source of the salvation lame men walk, blind men see, dead men live. Are there other sources? Are there other salvations? Jesus is the Way, know Him. The exclusive nature of truth brings freedom and life to the one who fixes their attention upon the Son. How liberating! What hope we have! The Son demands our full attention, our joy filled worship. Because of the Son, I can be a new creation, I can walk in newness of life, and live in the full assurance of faith. During this passion week, let's focus our attention on the Son and open our heart to Him (Hebrews 2:1-4, 3:1-3)

Time

2008-02-22T08:44:00.000-08:00

Does anybody really know what time it is? This question sounded out from a popular song of the late 60's. In John 13 Jesus focuses the attention of his disciples upon a specific time. At critical points Christ has talked about 'his time.' Now this 'time' has come. As we move toward the passion week of Christ, let us understand that this great display of grace was not an accident. The concept of 'time' speaks of purpose, a plan and a path to follow. It was time for Christ to bring the picture into focus and finish the work for which He had been sent. It was time to bring glory to the Father and establish the new covenant. Today is our time to submit to His authority, believe in His person and follow in His steps. Today is the operative time for all mankind. Today is the 'time' of salvation, grace, and mercy. As we move toward Easter, it is time for us to deny self, take the cross and follow Christ. Delay is Satan's tool. "Now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2).

Listen

2008-02-04T08:41:00.000-08:00

John 10 radiates with encouragement and exhortation for those who would choose to follow the living Christ. A key word in the chapter is 'listen.' To the sheep who know the shepherds's voice, the words are life and peace (Jn.6:63). To those who have hardedned their hearts and rejected Jesus of Nazareth, his words are labeled demonic (10:19). The contrast is startling. What am I hearing as I follow the Good Shepherd? It should be good news of peace, joy and life. Christ's words bring confidence, contentment, security as life unfolds. The Psalmist said to 'be still & know God (46:10). It's about learning to hear the voice of the Good Shepherd. In a world of massive doses of noise, I must learn to cultivate the inner ear to hear the Good Shepherd. Too often I find myself afraid of the silence and content to be drowned by the noise. As the young man Samuel declared, 'speak Lord your servant is listening.' With the help of the Holy Spirit let us cultivate ears to hear the Word of God and listen to what the Spirit is saying to the church.

Opportunity

2007-12-24T07:28:00.000-08:00

Paul in Ephesians exhorts Christ's people to 'make the most of every opportunity because the days are evil.' As another Christmas is upon me and a new year is staring me in the face, the proper expenditure of time is an ever challenging reality. How easy to trivialize life. How easy to waste days, months and years chasing after the wind. The big picture can be discouraging. I must learn to make the most of the minutes, hours and days. Christ packed so much in 33 years. I don't want my buzz word for 2008 to be 'busy.' I desire to be fruitful. By the help of the Spirit and the grace of God at work, to bear much fruit that will bring glory to the Father. Jesus wasn't busy. He was focused, purposeful, intelligent, discerning. Most of all I desire to use the hours and days of the new year to nurture the key relationships in life.

Thank you Christ for 2007 and your amazing grace each step of the way! Looking forward...

The believer's position of strength

2007-10-30T20:28:00.000-07:00

A great tragedy (sin) in the church in America is our attempt to do God's work in man's wisdom and strength. The 'arm of flesh' will always fall short. God's delight is not in our strength, but in those who trust in His unfailing love (Ps. 147:10). The believer's position of strength is identified in Romans 12:1-3. It is to be a living and holy sacrifice. A sacrifice has no rights. A sacrifice is totally at the disposal of the one to whom it is offered. Our strength is found when God is consuming us for His purposes. When the sacrifice was consumed by the fire of God, the only thing left was a pleasing aroma to God and a pile of ashes to remind us that we are nothing and He is everything. The level of our spiritual strength is in direct relation to our level of consecration. Through the sanctifying work of the Spirit let us be living and holy sacrifices unto the Lord. In that position we will find strength and resource to fulfill His mission and bring glory to His name.

True Success

2007-09-25T20:31:00.000-07:00

As another year of my earthly journey comes to a close and I begin another, the success I continue to pursue can be summarized in the following.

"Success is allowing the Holy Spirit continuous and unrestricted access to every part of my person."

The challenge of this pursuit keeps me on my knees. The key to victory as a follower of Christ is to be filled with and controlled by the Holy Spirit. My responsibility as I walk in covenant with Christ is to keep in step with the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:12).

The believer's task

2007-09-02T21:10:00.000-07:00

As followers of Christ, we have been exposed to all types of lists, requirements, and responsibilities. I'm discovering that we have added a lot of stuff that is not part of the kingdom. Let me suggest something from the life of Christ.

The believer's task is to relentlessly pursue the mind of Christ in order to fulfill the will of the Father.

Christ was all about the Father's will. He instructed us to pray for the Father's will to be done. Christ declared he came to do the Father's will. It will require a transformation in our focus, attitude and thought process. I'm in the process of learning to follow Christ and fulfill the Father's will.

Holiness

2007-07-22T11:32:00.000-07:00

A Christ centered holiness is desperately needed among those of us who call ourselves Christian. Maybe it would help to redefine holiness. There are many preconceptions concerning this critical Biblical mandate. Our picture and understanding of holiness must move beyond rules and regulations, beyond external issues of appearance and behavior. I offer a one word definition: Holiness is Christlikeness. To be Christlike is to live a life of love, compassion and courageous excellence for Christ's glory.
This holiness is impossible unless the Holy Spirit controls, cleanses and directs.

2007-07-06T20:16:00.000-07:00

Freedom-Do I understand what that is all about? How easy to take it for granted, both as an American and a follower of Christ. Our nation needs to remember, but how easily we forget. Generations come and go, and the distance increases between the now and then. Somehow each generation needs to embrace and discover the reality of this freedom.

Freedom in Christ is much the same. We each have the opportunity to experience this freedom on a daily basis. This freedom transcends the boundaries of a nation, and reaches to the depths of the human heart. What a powerful promise, "If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed!"

2007-06-29T20:30:00.000-07:00

Welcome
My daughter is smarter than me. This blog is under her instruction. Welcome to the new world. I heard Bill Easum say or read in one of his books, "if we have a new world, we need a new church. We have a new world."

This is only one aspect of it. During the coming weeks we will share thoughts from God's Word and life. I am looking for and prayer for a 'new church' to rise up in America. We'll talk about that in the days ahead.

Until next time, in the midst of the confusion and chaos, Christ lives.

PJ