I recently had to upgrade some things in my winter wear. I had to purchase new gloves, as the old ones were not keeping my hands warm, and they were full of holes. I also had to purchase new winter boots. Sneakers weren't cutting it anymore. Cold hands and cold feet aren't something that I like very much... my hands and feet are stay nice and warm now, and for that I am very apprecitative.
We all like getting new things, but what about getting something that we really need--- a new You?!
I believe that we can become new people. We cant become new on our own, but with the help of God, we can become new people... Jesus said in John 3:3"...I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." (NIV)
If we want to be made New, we must surrender our lives over to Jesus Christ and allow Him to make us new creations-- (See 2 Corinthians 5:17). He can make us what we need to be, what He wants us to be, what we were created to be.
Only God can transform us into new people, and I must tell you, there is nothing like enjoying something new-- be it a new glove, a new winter boot, or even a new You!
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Copy Cat
I was helping my youngest daughter get dressed this morning, and as I was making her bed, I noticed that her sister came in her room to give her a hand-me-down. Erica (my youngest) asked Emma (my oldest) “what are you going to wear today?”
I responded by saying “it doesn’t matter what she’s wearing, you’ve already chosen your clothes”
This is not the first time Erica has done this. More often than not, she’ll ask her sister what she’s doing and then she will want to do the same thing, take supper for example.
I will ask Erica what she wants to drink and she will pause, and look at and ask her sister, and I will interject, “I didn’t ask Emma, I asked you”
Erica will then respond with “water”. I will then ask Emma and she will say “milk”, then Erica will say she wanted milk…
I’ve got to tell you, this drives me NUTS! I don’t like it at all. I think it`s…. well Biblical!
Erica is trying to imitate Emma, just like I am supposed to Imitate God.
The Bible says in Ephesians 5:1-2 says:``Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. " ( NIV)
1 John 2:6 says: " Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did."
I am to imitate Jesus, just the way that my youngest wants imitate her big sister…
It seems that being a copy cat can be a good thing!
I responded by saying “it doesn’t matter what she’s wearing, you’ve already chosen your clothes”
This is not the first time Erica has done this. More often than not, she’ll ask her sister what she’s doing and then she will want to do the same thing, take supper for example.
I will ask Erica what she wants to drink and she will pause, and look at and ask her sister, and I will interject, “I didn’t ask Emma, I asked you”
Erica will then respond with “water”. I will then ask Emma and she will say “milk”, then Erica will say she wanted milk…
I’ve got to tell you, this drives me NUTS! I don’t like it at all. I think it`s…. well Biblical!
Erica is trying to imitate Emma, just like I am supposed to Imitate God.
The Bible says in Ephesians 5:1-2 says:``Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. " ( NIV)
1 John 2:6 says: " Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did."
I am to imitate Jesus, just the way that my youngest wants imitate her big sister…
It seems that being a copy cat can be a good thing!
Friday, November 26, 2010
"I can" vs. "God Can"
Well, I'm not feeling overly inspired this morning, maybe it is has something to do with the snow, or maybe it has something to do with being tired... yeah I'll go with that one.
I attended a meeting last night, and one of the men i attended it with, reflected back on Red Green.. (if you don't know who he was, google him).. at the end of each show, they would go to the "lodge" and recite the man's pledge/prayer, that went "I'm a man, I can change, if i have too, I guess."
While we both thought it would have been funny for the men's meeting to start out like that, it didn't.
The meeting was good, but I'm still thinking about the above mentioned pledge/prayer.
While it's true that I am a man, the truth is I cannot change. even if i have to. I have no power on my own to change... the only way that I can change is if I allow God, through the working of the Holy Spirit to change me from the inside out.
The Bible, in Romans 12:2 says: "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." (NLT2)
The only way that men, women, boys and girls can change, is if we allow God to change us... and He often starts by chaning the way that we think.... because what we think about is so often what we become.
I don't know about you, but I still need God to change me.... I need Him to change me from the inside out. He wants to, I just need to let Him.....then I can "figure" out what He wants me to do.....
Now, how can I rework that prayer/pledge.. "I'm a man, I can change, if God changes me..."
I attended a meeting last night, and one of the men i attended it with, reflected back on Red Green.. (if you don't know who he was, google him).. at the end of each show, they would go to the "lodge" and recite the man's pledge/prayer, that went "I'm a man, I can change, if i have too, I guess."
While we both thought it would have been funny for the men's meeting to start out like that, it didn't.
The meeting was good, but I'm still thinking about the above mentioned pledge/prayer.
While it's true that I am a man, the truth is I cannot change. even if i have to. I have no power on my own to change... the only way that I can change is if I allow God, through the working of the Holy Spirit to change me from the inside out.
The Bible, in Romans 12:2 says: "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." (NLT2)
The only way that men, women, boys and girls can change, is if we allow God to change us... and He often starts by chaning the way that we think.... because what we think about is so often what we become.
I don't know about you, but I still need God to change me.... I need Him to change me from the inside out. He wants to, I just need to let Him.....then I can "figure" out what He wants me to do.....
Now, how can I rework that prayer/pledge.. "I'm a man, I can change, if God changes me..."
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Doing what we should be doing..
Do you know how to catch a monkey?
There is a story that says in Africa (and India), the hunters use a technique to catch monkeys. They hollow out one end of a coconut and they put peanuts in there (I've also heard bananas…but same concept).
The monkey puts his hand in the coconut and when he makes a fist to grab the peanuts, he's trapped. The hunters will pull a string attached to the other end of the coconut and capture the monkey.
So it is with sin.
We often sin when we don’t let go of the peanuts. We often sin when we do something that we should be doing.
The bible says in 2 Samuel 11: “In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king's men and the whole Israelite army. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem.” (NIV)
David stayed home when he should have gone off to war with his men. Instead of doing what he was supposed to be doing, he took a walk on his roof one night and saw a good looking woman taking a bath on the roof top and he wanted her…
The Bible tells us that David sent one of his servants to get her, he slept with her, he got her pregnant, sent her back, found out she was pregnant, sent for her husband and tried to get him to sleep with her, but he was a better man than he was, so in turn David had her husband killed and he took Bathsheba to be his wife.
All of this mess because David did what he wasn’t supposed to do.
That is what sin is like; it makes us do some pretty stupid things.
If we want to have victoy over sin, we must do the right thing, and avoid it like I want my kids to avoid the boys..
Hebrews 12:1-2a says: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith…” (NIV)
You and I can have victory over sin. It starts by doing what we are supposed to do—looking to Jesus for Help—and letting go of the peanuts!
There is a story that says in Africa (and India), the hunters use a technique to catch monkeys. They hollow out one end of a coconut and they put peanuts in there (I've also heard bananas…but same concept).
The monkey puts his hand in the coconut and when he makes a fist to grab the peanuts, he's trapped. The hunters will pull a string attached to the other end of the coconut and capture the monkey.
So it is with sin.
We often sin when we don’t let go of the peanuts. We often sin when we do something that we should be doing.
The bible says in 2 Samuel 11: “In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king's men and the whole Israelite army. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem.” (NIV)
David stayed home when he should have gone off to war with his men. Instead of doing what he was supposed to be doing, he took a walk on his roof one night and saw a good looking woman taking a bath on the roof top and he wanted her…
The Bible tells us that David sent one of his servants to get her, he slept with her, he got her pregnant, sent her back, found out she was pregnant, sent for her husband and tried to get him to sleep with her, but he was a better man than he was, so in turn David had her husband killed and he took Bathsheba to be his wife.
All of this mess because David did what he wasn’t supposed to do.
That is what sin is like; it makes us do some pretty stupid things.
If we want to have victoy over sin, we must do the right thing, and avoid it like I want my kids to avoid the boys..
Hebrews 12:1-2a says: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith…” (NIV)
You and I can have victory over sin. It starts by doing what we are supposed to do—looking to Jesus for Help—and letting go of the peanuts!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
What we need...
I read this passage this afternoon. I want you to read it, but take your time as you read it:
"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven,[a] Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (Heb. 4:14-16, NIV)
I found comfort in these words today. I don't know about you, but what I need the most is a God who understands me. I need a God who sympathises with me. I need a God who gets me.
this verse tells me that I have one. His Name is Jesus Christ. Jesus understands what I go through. I don't have a god who is way out in left field unable to understand me. The Bible tells me that Jesus knows what I go through, and He is able to help me get through it, because He's been there.
I need someone who will help me, and the bible tells me that I have Someone like that. His Name is Jesus.
Because I have Jesus, I can approach God's Throne to get the help I need. I believe you me, I need the help. God is not a distant God who can't possibly understand what we go through.
He is able to understand what we go through because He himself went through the same thing.
The Bible says: " Because God’s children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had[a] the power of death." ( Heb. 2:14, NLT2)
I'm thankful that God knows what I deal with. I'm thankful that God is able to handle what I deal with. He can take care of you too.
"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven,[a] Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (Heb. 4:14-16, NIV)
I found comfort in these words today. I don't know about you, but what I need the most is a God who understands me. I need a God who sympathises with me. I need a God who gets me.
this verse tells me that I have one. His Name is Jesus Christ. Jesus understands what I go through. I don't have a god who is way out in left field unable to understand me. The Bible tells me that Jesus knows what I go through, and He is able to help me get through it, because He's been there.
I need someone who will help me, and the bible tells me that I have Someone like that. His Name is Jesus.
Because I have Jesus, I can approach God's Throne to get the help I need. I believe you me, I need the help. God is not a distant God who can't possibly understand what we go through.
He is able to understand what we go through because He himself went through the same thing.
The Bible says: " Because God’s children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had[a] the power of death." ( Heb. 2:14, NLT2)
I'm thankful that God knows what I deal with. I'm thankful that God is able to handle what I deal with. He can take care of you too.
Friday, October 29, 2010
It Takes Time...
I've recently begun a new hobby. Actually, I should say, I've re-started an old hobby. When I was younger I used to put together plastic Model Cars. I recently started doing them again, and I enjoy it-- when I have time!
I have completed two models and I am almost finished the third. One of the things that I am learning-- or learning again-- is how much time it takes to put one of these models together. It's not a quick process. You have to glue the pieces together, you have to wait for the glue to dry, and then if you want to paint the model, you have to do that very carefully and slowly. It takes time to construct a model.
Our lives are like that as well. More specifically, our Spiritual Lives are like a model, it takes time to "put them together".. by that I mean it takes time for them to be what we are intended to be.
I'm thinking about-- and speaking about-- my own life... I'm not the man today that I was 7 years ago, I would like to think I am a better man, husband and father today than last year, and I hope that I am a better Disciple of Jesus than I was years ago... but it took time for me to get to the place I am now.
I am sometimes guilty of "speeding up the process" in my own life and in the lives of other people, I want results now, but the best results take time.... just like a model.
The best cars take time to put together, and the best followers of Christ are the ones who have taken the time to spend time alone with the Lord.
Becoming Like Christ--takes time.. Thankfully the Holy Spirit has the patience needed to make me what He wants me to be!
I have completed two models and I am almost finished the third. One of the things that I am learning-- or learning again-- is how much time it takes to put one of these models together. It's not a quick process. You have to glue the pieces together, you have to wait for the glue to dry, and then if you want to paint the model, you have to do that very carefully and slowly. It takes time to construct a model.
Our lives are like that as well. More specifically, our Spiritual Lives are like a model, it takes time to "put them together".. by that I mean it takes time for them to be what we are intended to be.
I'm thinking about-- and speaking about-- my own life... I'm not the man today that I was 7 years ago, I would like to think I am a better man, husband and father today than last year, and I hope that I am a better Disciple of Jesus than I was years ago... but it took time for me to get to the place I am now.
I am sometimes guilty of "speeding up the process" in my own life and in the lives of other people, I want results now, but the best results take time.... just like a model.
The best cars take time to put together, and the best followers of Christ are the ones who have taken the time to spend time alone with the Lord.
Becoming Like Christ--takes time.. Thankfully the Holy Spirit has the patience needed to make me what He wants me to be!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Live Ready
I was reading this news article this morning: http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/afp/101016/top_news/science_us_japan_astrophysics.
the first few lines of this article say:
"The end of the world as we know it cannot be avoided, but it can be predicted, according to a group of astrophysicists who see a 50 percent chance of the final countdown ending in 3.7 billion years.
"Time is unlikely to end in our lifetime, but there is a 50 percent chance that time will end within the next 3.7 billion years," according to the team of US and Japanese scientists, who are challenging a long-standing theory of the universe."
3.7 billion years? really?
I find interesting all the people who try to come up with the date and time of the end of the world. You have probably seen the supermarket tabloids just as I have... almost every week one of them is reminding us that the world will end in 1999, 2000, 2012... on and on they go...
We are all looking for answers... and the Bible gives us an answer as well... Jesus, in Matthew 24 says:
36 "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
37 As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.
38 For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark;
39 and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.
40 Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left.
41 Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.
42 "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.
43 But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into.
44 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him." (NIV)
Jesus doesn't give us an exact date, but He does tell us that the world is coming to an end... His main message form this passage is that we are to "Live Ready".
The end of the world is going to come, just like the scientists have predicted. (Jesus said so first!) but, it will come at a time when we do not expect it... so we need to live each day as if it might be our last.
As C.T. Studd once said: "Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last."
Are you ready for the end of the world? You can be, simply invite Jesus into your world, and live for Him and at the end of the world, He will invite you into His world.
the first few lines of this article say:
"The end of the world as we know it cannot be avoided, but it can be predicted, according to a group of astrophysicists who see a 50 percent chance of the final countdown ending in 3.7 billion years.
"Time is unlikely to end in our lifetime, but there is a 50 percent chance that time will end within the next 3.7 billion years," according to the team of US and Japanese scientists, who are challenging a long-standing theory of the universe."
3.7 billion years? really?
I find interesting all the people who try to come up with the date and time of the end of the world. You have probably seen the supermarket tabloids just as I have... almost every week one of them is reminding us that the world will end in 1999, 2000, 2012... on and on they go...
We are all looking for answers... and the Bible gives us an answer as well... Jesus, in Matthew 24 says:
36 "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
37 As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.
38 For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark;
39 and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.
40 Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left.
41 Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.
42 "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.
43 But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into.
44 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him." (NIV)
Jesus doesn't give us an exact date, but He does tell us that the world is coming to an end... His main message form this passage is that we are to "Live Ready".
The end of the world is going to come, just like the scientists have predicted. (Jesus said so first!) but, it will come at a time when we do not expect it... so we need to live each day as if it might be our last.
As C.T. Studd once said: "Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last."
Are you ready for the end of the world? You can be, simply invite Jesus into your world, and live for Him and at the end of the world, He will invite you into His world.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Just a little...
I heard this week of a report that a "scientist" recently completed a study that stated that pregnant women can drink some booze and it not affect their baby.... this report was not accepted by other scientists and they are saying that there has not been enough tests to prove this is actually the case.
when I first heard this news report, I laughed. once again we are looking to do "just enough of something that wont hurt me". Ive said it before, we can justify just about anything, and the people of this study have tried to justify "a little drink" while pregnant.
this is a lot like our justification of sin. We want to know from God, how much of this sin am i allowed to have before I make you upset.
if we truly want to know the answer, it is NONE. asking how much of a sin can i do before it becomes sin, is sin. It's just like asking how much fire can I play with before i burn myself!! My dad always told me if you play with fire you're going to get burned.
its the same with sin. if we play with sin, if we entertain sin, if we think about sin, it will lead us into sin! Thankfully, we can have victory over sin, this victory is found only in Jesus Christ.
I want to try this week, not to have "a little sin" because it will lead me into a lot of sin.
when I first heard this news report, I laughed. once again we are looking to do "just enough of something that wont hurt me". Ive said it before, we can justify just about anything, and the people of this study have tried to justify "a little drink" while pregnant.
this is a lot like our justification of sin. We want to know from God, how much of this sin am i allowed to have before I make you upset.
if we truly want to know the answer, it is NONE. asking how much of a sin can i do before it becomes sin, is sin. It's just like asking how much fire can I play with before i burn myself!! My dad always told me if you play with fire you're going to get burned.
its the same with sin. if we play with sin, if we entertain sin, if we think about sin, it will lead us into sin! Thankfully, we can have victory over sin, this victory is found only in Jesus Christ.
I want to try this week, not to have "a little sin" because it will lead me into a lot of sin.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
"Old" and "New"
I recently upgraded my computer. The old one just wouldn’t cut it. It was 7 years old, and had 7 years of stuff on it, and it wouldn’t work anymore, so it needed to be replaced.
Over the last few weeks, I have been trying to install some of my “old” computer software onto my “new” computer. This has proven to be easier said than done. Take yesterday for example.
I was doing some research and wanted to copy a note from a book into my notes, and remembered that I had the same book on the computer, so I tried to install the “old” software onto the “new” machine.
It didn’t work.
I ended up calling the company, and we spent about 30 minutes on the phone, uninstalling the “old” version of the program, and reinstalling a “new” version of the program.
It seems to be that something “old” won’t work on something “new”.
This isn’t limited to computers. This principle, “old” into “new”, is a life principle, taught by Jesus Himself:
"No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. 22 And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, he pours new wine into new wineskins." (Mark 2:21-22, NIV)
The analogy is pretty clear: something “old” doesn’t go on—or in—something “new”.
For the “new” product to work effectively, “new” must be placed in that product.
You and I, if we have given our lives to Jesus Christ are a “new creation” (2 Cor. 5:17, NIV) and we are instructed not to put “old” into “new”:
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Gal 5:1, NIV)
In verse 13 of that same chapter, we read these words: “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature….” (NIV)
The message is pretty clear: if we have been made “new” by the blood of Jesus, we are not to allow any “old” thing to come back in again.
“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires.” (Gal 5:24, NIV)
Putting something “old” into something “new” is not recommended; because it will destroy what has been made “new”….
Over the last few weeks, I have been trying to install some of my “old” computer software onto my “new” computer. This has proven to be easier said than done. Take yesterday for example.
I was doing some research and wanted to copy a note from a book into my notes, and remembered that I had the same book on the computer, so I tried to install the “old” software onto the “new” machine.
It didn’t work.
I ended up calling the company, and we spent about 30 minutes on the phone, uninstalling the “old” version of the program, and reinstalling a “new” version of the program.
It seems to be that something “old” won’t work on something “new”.
This isn’t limited to computers. This principle, “old” into “new”, is a life principle, taught by Jesus Himself:
"No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. 22 And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, he pours new wine into new wineskins." (Mark 2:21-22, NIV)
The analogy is pretty clear: something “old” doesn’t go on—or in—something “new”.
For the “new” product to work effectively, “new” must be placed in that product.
You and I, if we have given our lives to Jesus Christ are a “new creation” (2 Cor. 5:17, NIV) and we are instructed not to put “old” into “new”:
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Gal 5:1, NIV)
In verse 13 of that same chapter, we read these words: “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature….” (NIV)
The message is pretty clear: if we have been made “new” by the blood of Jesus, we are not to allow any “old” thing to come back in again.
“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires.” (Gal 5:24, NIV)
Putting something “old” into something “new” is not recommended; because it will destroy what has been made “new”….
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Razors and Churches
I purchased a new razor the other day. It had been thinking about it for a while, and I took the plunge and spend 5 bucks and got the new Gillette Power Glide Fusion Plus. it works great, but I must tell you, I was a little frightened to use this new razor.
What i didn't tell you is that for years I have used an electric razor to shave. I have never wanted to try the straight edge, up until recently.
Saturday was the big day. I got lathered up and began to shave. I have to tell you that I was slightly scared at what was going to happen. I had never done it before... (I had seen my father shave with a straight edge for years, but it's different when it's your own face) I don't think i was scared, just nervous. I was nervous as to how my face was going to re-act with a razor blade coming in contact with it.
I think the same thing can be said for people and church. I think people are somewhat frightened when they come to church for the first time.... they have no idea what's going to happen to them.. will someone cut me? will someone welcome me? will someone point out what I am doing wrong?
Razors and churches have more in common than you might think.
the next time someone comes to your church, why don't you go out of your way to make them feel welcome and comfortable, don't go overboard, but take the time to welcome them, and thank them for coming... this might be just the thing that will bring them back the next time.
i am pleased to say that my razor didn't cut my face then, or yet, and i hope that any church i pastor doesn'tt cut the very people who walk in our doors. They might come back if they have a "smooth" experinece. they will be less liklely to come back if they get cut. so be gentle with people, as gentle as I am when I shave...
What i didn't tell you is that for years I have used an electric razor to shave. I have never wanted to try the straight edge, up until recently.
Saturday was the big day. I got lathered up and began to shave. I have to tell you that I was slightly scared at what was going to happen. I had never done it before... (I had seen my father shave with a straight edge for years, but it's different when it's your own face) I don't think i was scared, just nervous. I was nervous as to how my face was going to re-act with a razor blade coming in contact with it.
I think the same thing can be said for people and church. I think people are somewhat frightened when they come to church for the first time.... they have no idea what's going to happen to them.. will someone cut me? will someone welcome me? will someone point out what I am doing wrong?
Razors and churches have more in common than you might think.
the next time someone comes to your church, why don't you go out of your way to make them feel welcome and comfortable, don't go overboard, but take the time to welcome them, and thank them for coming... this might be just the thing that will bring them back the next time.
i am pleased to say that my razor didn't cut my face then, or yet, and i hope that any church i pastor doesn'tt cut the very people who walk in our doors. They might come back if they have a "smooth" experinece. they will be less liklely to come back if they get cut. so be gentle with people, as gentle as I am when I shave...
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Face Time
The other day, my wife, daughter and I had a Dr. appt. My Brother came along, as he was babysitting for us that day, and he was also keeping my other daughter company. Anyway, as we were sitting in the waiting room, I was reading, my brother was reading to my kids and my wife was reading. I got tired of reading, so I took out my iPhone and surfed the Net.... None of us were talking to each other we were engaged in a book/magazine/phone. (You could make the argument that my brother was reading to my kids, and you are correct, but he wasn't talking to them...)
as I was sitting there, i got the strong impression that this is what most people do today. We disengage from society and listen to our Ipod's, look at our iPad's, read a magazine, all so we don't have to talk to someone else.... its the same when people walk on the side of the road... and when someone actually says something to us, (or when people sit and talk in a room) we become annoyed... or at the very least think they are strange because they are talking.
While I'm not against technology, I think we need to use it in moderation. Like tonight for example. I came home from work and had supper and chose to spend time with my kids playing a game, instead of sitting them in front of the TV, while i watched the news. I chose to spend face time with them, and as a result, we both enjoyed being with each other.
this is what we were made to do... interact with one another. maybe it's time that we turn off the ipod/iPhone for a few moments and spend that time talking to people... you never know where it will lead...... into a conversation. (if you've forgotten how to carry on a conversation, i guess you could always Google it!) Give it a try, have some face time with someone this week. You'll be glad you did!
as I was sitting there, i got the strong impression that this is what most people do today. We disengage from society and listen to our Ipod's, look at our iPad's, read a magazine, all so we don't have to talk to someone else.... its the same when people walk on the side of the road... and when someone actually says something to us, (or when people sit and talk in a room) we become annoyed... or at the very least think they are strange because they are talking.
While I'm not against technology, I think we need to use it in moderation. Like tonight for example. I came home from work and had supper and chose to spend time with my kids playing a game, instead of sitting them in front of the TV, while i watched the news. I chose to spend face time with them, and as a result, we both enjoyed being with each other.
this is what we were made to do... interact with one another. maybe it's time that we turn off the ipod/iPhone for a few moments and spend that time talking to people... you never know where it will lead...... into a conversation. (if you've forgotten how to carry on a conversation, i guess you could always Google it!) Give it a try, have some face time with someone this week. You'll be glad you did!
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Interesting
I heard something interesting on the news today... it was on CBC and it was about the anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks. Apparently one pastor, in the USA, will be burning several copies of the Quran to mark this date.
I find this hard to believe.. especially from a "pastor"...
I wonder what Jesus would do? Actually, I don't have to wonder, for He tells us in John 13: 34-35: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (NIV)
How is burning a Quran showing the love of Jesus to our Muslim friends? It's not!
I don't know how I'm going to celebrate Sept. 11, but it certainly won't be by burning a copy of the Quran, maybe I should pray for them, (and this pastor too) because they need Jesus just as much as I need Jesus!
I find this hard to believe.. especially from a "pastor"...
I wonder what Jesus would do? Actually, I don't have to wonder, for He tells us in John 13: 34-35: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (NIV)
How is burning a Quran showing the love of Jesus to our Muslim friends? It's not!
I don't know how I'm going to celebrate Sept. 11, but it certainly won't be by burning a copy of the Quran, maybe I should pray for them, (and this pastor too) because they need Jesus just as much as I need Jesus!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Following Jesus.....
I had planned on posting something else for this post.. i still may, but this one just happened, so let's go with it and see where it goes.
I love to read. Because this is so, I read a lot of different things. Some of what I read about is things that my pastoral friends are doing.
this afternoon found me doing just that. I clicked on a church's website to see what they were doing. they recently went through a pastoral change, and I wanted to see what "new things" were taking place.
as I read their bulletin, I saw some interesting things, and I immediately began to think "I can't do that!" and for a brief moment-- or three-- I became upset.. upset that i wasn't able to "duplicate" what this person was doing...
My mind immediately flashed to John 21. Jesus had just reinstated Peter, and as Jesus told Peter to "follow Him", Peter immediately turns to John and asks "Lord, what about him?" (John 21:21, NIV)
Peter had taken his eyes off the Master and was looking at someone else... wondering about what that someone else, in this case, John, was going to do...
Jesus responded by saying: "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?" (21:22) Then, without missing a beat, Jesus says: "You must follow me" (21:22, NIV)
This is what I need to learn. I'm not to get caught up in what someone else is doing-- I can be happy for what they are doing---- but it's my job to follow Jesus. It's my job to do what He tells me to do. Period.
I'm to keep my eyes on Jesus, not on someone else. Jesus is the One I'm to follow. If I follow Him, He will show me what I am to do. this is the promise of Psalm 32:8: "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." (NIV)
If I keep my eyes on Jesus, and do what He wants me to do, then I will be fine. If I begin to look at what someone else is doing, and try to compete with them, then I'm sunk...
The same goes with you... Jesus wants you to follow Him. He'll lead you. Trust me... or Trust Jesus.
I love to read. Because this is so, I read a lot of different things. Some of what I read about is things that my pastoral friends are doing.
this afternoon found me doing just that. I clicked on a church's website to see what they were doing. they recently went through a pastoral change, and I wanted to see what "new things" were taking place.
as I read their bulletin, I saw some interesting things, and I immediately began to think "I can't do that!" and for a brief moment-- or three-- I became upset.. upset that i wasn't able to "duplicate" what this person was doing...
My mind immediately flashed to John 21. Jesus had just reinstated Peter, and as Jesus told Peter to "follow Him", Peter immediately turns to John and asks "Lord, what about him?" (John 21:21, NIV)
Peter had taken his eyes off the Master and was looking at someone else... wondering about what that someone else, in this case, John, was going to do...
Jesus responded by saying: "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?" (21:22) Then, without missing a beat, Jesus says: "You must follow me" (21:22, NIV)
This is what I need to learn. I'm not to get caught up in what someone else is doing-- I can be happy for what they are doing---- but it's my job to follow Jesus. It's my job to do what He tells me to do. Period.
I'm to keep my eyes on Jesus, not on someone else. Jesus is the One I'm to follow. If I follow Him, He will show me what I am to do. this is the promise of Psalm 32:8: "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." (NIV)
If I keep my eyes on Jesus, and do what He wants me to do, then I will be fine. If I begin to look at what someone else is doing, and try to compete with them, then I'm sunk...
The same goes with you... Jesus wants you to follow Him. He'll lead you. Trust me... or Trust Jesus.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
rude people
the other day, I had to return something, and as I walked up to the counter—a lady at another counter, said in a rather unhelpful voice—“are you returning that”
Sensing that she wasn’t having a great day, I said “sort of”, to which she replied: “what do you mean”
I explained the situation to her, and she “told” me that I needed to wait for a new one, as I tired to press the matter somewhat further; I wasn’t getting anywhere, so I signed the receipt and began walking out the door.
As I was walking out the door, I noticed the exact item that I wanted, so I picked it up and took it back to show her, and asked if I could get this item, to which she informed me that If I ordered it on line, I needed to wait it because it would mess with their “stock”.
I immediately set out to find my wife and proceeded to tell her my story, and she told me how it was the same girl—we think—who “waited” on her a few days before, and received the same poor service. I was, somewhat comforted, but still annoyed at the service I had received.
Pondering on that incident, it made me think about my life. Specifically, it made me ask myself the question: “how do I treat people”? Am I nice to them, or are they just a means to an end?
A fellow in our last church used to have a saying that went like this: “it’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.” I think this statement is true in so many ways.
While we all want to be important, it’s more important for us to be nice.
Isn’t this what Jesus said? In Luke 6:31 we read this word: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” (NIV)
Jesus reminds us that we are to treat people--- all people—in the same way that we ourselves would want to be treated.
He goes on to tell us in verses 32 & on: "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love those who love them.
33 And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' do that.
34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' lend to 'sinners,' expecting to be repaid in full.
35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back….” (NIV)
Not too many people like to be treated like a door mat, most people like too be treated with respect, so why don’t we, seek to treat people with the same TLC that we would want to receive?
And what are we to do on the odd occasion that we bump into someone who is a little less than friendly? Jesus offers these words of advice in verses 27-28: “… do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you…” (NLT2)
Sensing that she wasn’t having a great day, I said “sort of”, to which she replied: “what do you mean”
I explained the situation to her, and she “told” me that I needed to wait for a new one, as I tired to press the matter somewhat further; I wasn’t getting anywhere, so I signed the receipt and began walking out the door.
As I was walking out the door, I noticed the exact item that I wanted, so I picked it up and took it back to show her, and asked if I could get this item, to which she informed me that If I ordered it on line, I needed to wait it because it would mess with their “stock”.
I immediately set out to find my wife and proceeded to tell her my story, and she told me how it was the same girl—we think—who “waited” on her a few days before, and received the same poor service. I was, somewhat comforted, but still annoyed at the service I had received.
Pondering on that incident, it made me think about my life. Specifically, it made me ask myself the question: “how do I treat people”? Am I nice to them, or are they just a means to an end?
A fellow in our last church used to have a saying that went like this: “it’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.” I think this statement is true in so many ways.
While we all want to be important, it’s more important for us to be nice.
Isn’t this what Jesus said? In Luke 6:31 we read this word: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” (NIV)
Jesus reminds us that we are to treat people--- all people—in the same way that we ourselves would want to be treated.
He goes on to tell us in verses 32 & on: "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love those who love them.
33 And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' do that.
34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' lend to 'sinners,' expecting to be repaid in full.
35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back….” (NIV)
Not too many people like to be treated like a door mat, most people like too be treated with respect, so why don’t we, seek to treat people with the same TLC that we would want to receive?
And what are we to do on the odd occasion that we bump into someone who is a little less than friendly? Jesus offers these words of advice in verses 27-28: “… do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you…” (NLT2)
Thursday, August 19, 2010
The Chrisitan Atheist
I started a new book a few weeks back; it’s one of the two that I picked up at Beulah Camp. The title of the book is “The Christian Atheist”, and it’s by Pastor Craig Groeschel.
I have read two of his books before this one, and expect this one to be equally as good as the previous two.
The name of the author enticed me into purchasing the book, but the subtitle really convinced me that the book would be good. The subtitle of the book: “the Christian atheist” is “believing in God but living as if he doesn’t exist”.
In the introduction, the author tells us of 2 people he met while on an airplane: Travis and Michelle.
“Travis”, he writes, “is an atheist. He doesn’t believe in God, doesn’t pray, doesn’t read the bible, and doesn’t attend church….
“…Michelle on the other hand is “an entirely different atheist—a Christian atheist.”
“Christian atheism”, the author goes on to explain is: “where people believe in God, but live as if he doesn’t exist”
That statement made me think about my life. I believe in God, (you believe in God) but do I live as if He doesn’t exist? (Do you live as if He doesn’t exist?)
The Bible reminds me of this important truth found in 1 John 2:6: “…Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did.” (NIV)
The NLT2 translates the verse in this way: “Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.”
There is very little wiggle room left in this verse. If we say that we are followers of the God Most High, our lives should be modeled after the Lord Jesus Christ.
So think about your life Do you believe in God--- but are you living as if He doesn’t exist?
Oswald Chambers once said: “Beware of worshipping Jesus as the Son of God, and professing your faith in Him as the savior of the world, while you blaspheme Him by the complete evidence in your daily life that He is powerless to do anything in and through you.”
If you profess to be a Christ follower, you had better follow Christ.
I have read two of his books before this one, and expect this one to be equally as good as the previous two.
The name of the author enticed me into purchasing the book, but the subtitle really convinced me that the book would be good. The subtitle of the book: “the Christian atheist” is “believing in God but living as if he doesn’t exist”.
In the introduction, the author tells us of 2 people he met while on an airplane: Travis and Michelle.
“Travis”, he writes, “is an atheist. He doesn’t believe in God, doesn’t pray, doesn’t read the bible, and doesn’t attend church….
“…Michelle on the other hand is “an entirely different atheist—a Christian atheist.”
“Christian atheism”, the author goes on to explain is: “where people believe in God, but live as if he doesn’t exist”
That statement made me think about my life. I believe in God, (you believe in God) but do I live as if He doesn’t exist? (Do you live as if He doesn’t exist?)
The Bible reminds me of this important truth found in 1 John 2:6: “…Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did.” (NIV)
The NLT2 translates the verse in this way: “Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.”
There is very little wiggle room left in this verse. If we say that we are followers of the God Most High, our lives should be modeled after the Lord Jesus Christ.
So think about your life Do you believe in God--- but are you living as if He doesn’t exist?
Oswald Chambers once said: “Beware of worshipping Jesus as the Son of God, and professing your faith in Him as the savior of the world, while you blaspheme Him by the complete evidence in your daily life that He is powerless to do anything in and through you.”
If you profess to be a Christ follower, you had better follow Christ.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
In an instant.....
I had to purchase a new comptuer this week.... not something I wanted to do, but it was something that I needed to do. you see the old one was 7 years old and simply had no room left on it......
I went into Staples and asked the fellow for a computer and we talked for a while, and when I found one that I wanted, I also asked him if they could transfer my files from the old machine to the new machine... He told me that it would take about 2 days.
"TWO DAYS... I need it for work this afternoon" I said.
He said the best he could do is have it ready in one day......
So I am waiting for my new one to be done at the end of the week.....
I've said all of this to say, that I don't like to wait. If I want something, I generally want it now. It's only "normal" for we live in an instant society-- High Speed internt, Drive- Thus, fast cars...... but One thing-- er-- Person is not usually Instant. God. ( because it's "normal" doesnt mean it's right... but that's for another posting)
Normally when we ask for something from God, It's not usually Instant. Sometimes, we will have to wait. I think God does this for many reasons, the primany one is to teach us how to wait--> patience.
I think about Elijah wanting to see God in 1 Kings 19. God did not show up in the noise of the rain, or the storm, but He showed up in the quiet. God wanted Elijah to wait, and when God doesn't answer my prayers in an instant, He wants me to wait.... not to look to something/someone else, but to wait on Him. The Bible says:" those who wait on the Lord will find new strength...." (Is. 40:31, NIV)
It could be that when God asks me to wait, He has something better for me.... it might not be a new computer... it might be something much better!!!!!!!!!
I went into Staples and asked the fellow for a computer and we talked for a while, and when I found one that I wanted, I also asked him if they could transfer my files from the old machine to the new machine... He told me that it would take about 2 days.
"TWO DAYS... I need it for work this afternoon" I said.
He said the best he could do is have it ready in one day......
So I am waiting for my new one to be done at the end of the week.....
I've said all of this to say, that I don't like to wait. If I want something, I generally want it now. It's only "normal" for we live in an instant society-- High Speed internt, Drive- Thus, fast cars...... but One thing-- er-- Person is not usually Instant. God. ( because it's "normal" doesnt mean it's right... but that's for another posting)
Normally when we ask for something from God, It's not usually Instant. Sometimes, we will have to wait. I think God does this for many reasons, the primany one is to teach us how to wait--> patience.
I think about Elijah wanting to see God in 1 Kings 19. God did not show up in the noise of the rain, or the storm, but He showed up in the quiet. God wanted Elijah to wait, and when God doesn't answer my prayers in an instant, He wants me to wait.... not to look to something/someone else, but to wait on Him. The Bible says:" those who wait on the Lord will find new strength...." (Is. 40:31, NIV)
It could be that when God asks me to wait, He has something better for me.... it might not be a new computer... it might be something much better!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Prep Work....
I'm preparring today for a test tomorrow.
More Specifucally, I am preparing today for a test at the hospital tomorrow. You see, 8 years ago, I was officially diagnosed with Chron's disease--> this affects the bowel, it's something I've come accustomed to, and quite frankly means I don't have to eat Brussel sprouts... yuk!
tomorrow I will have the same test I had 8 years ago when I was a patient at the hospital in Fredericton. My GI doctor wants to see how this "disease" is "working" (for lack of a better term") in my body, so tomorrow I take the test.
A lot has changed in my life since I was diagnosed with this disease. I've altered my eating habits. I know what I am supposed to eat and what I am supposed to stay away from, and because of doing what I am supposed to be doing, I have managed this disease well. I have followed my GI Doctor's advice, and have been good!
Spiritually, I'm not the same person I was 8 years ago. I would like to think that I am "better" spiritually today than I was back then. Why is this? Because I've followed The Doctor's advice. I have sought to listen to Jesus and do what He wanted me to do.
All of the spiritual preparation that I've done, will come in handy when tomorrow comes... Be encouraged, God is and can work in your life as well.. take it one day at a time and then look back and see where He has taken you.......
More Specifucally, I am preparing today for a test at the hospital tomorrow. You see, 8 years ago, I was officially diagnosed with Chron's disease--> this affects the bowel, it's something I've come accustomed to, and quite frankly means I don't have to eat Brussel sprouts... yuk!
tomorrow I will have the same test I had 8 years ago when I was a patient at the hospital in Fredericton. My GI doctor wants to see how this "disease" is "working" (for lack of a better term") in my body, so tomorrow I take the test.
A lot has changed in my life since I was diagnosed with this disease. I've altered my eating habits. I know what I am supposed to eat and what I am supposed to stay away from, and because of doing what I am supposed to be doing, I have managed this disease well. I have followed my GI Doctor's advice, and have been good!
Spiritually, I'm not the same person I was 8 years ago. I would like to think that I am "better" spiritually today than I was back then. Why is this? Because I've followed The Doctor's advice. I have sought to listen to Jesus and do what He wanted me to do.
All of the spiritual preparation that I've done, will come in handy when tomorrow comes... Be encouraged, God is and can work in your life as well.. take it one day at a time and then look back and see where He has taken you.......
Saturday, July 31, 2010
new song
I just listened to Third Day's new single "Lift up your Face" wow it rocks! i cant wait for the CD to come out! i'll try to attach the link here, so you can listen to it.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
I'm here....
I know I haven't had a post in a long time, it;s not because i have noting to say, it's because i don't have Internet at the office as of yet, and i am the most inspired when i am at the office, so, you are going to have to wait for another week or so......
but know that we are getting settled in in Maple Ridge, and the folks have been good to us, we are looking forward to seeing what God has in store for us here... stay tuned
but know that we are getting settled in in Maple Ridge, and the folks have been good to us, we are looking forward to seeing what God has in store for us here... stay tuned
Thursday, June 24, 2010
my kids
i am very proud of my kids. sometimes they drive me nuts, (i think i did the same to my parents when i was younger..any maybe still do to this day.....) Anyway, today was Emma's awards day at her school. i was hoping that she would get an award, and she did!!! she got the Havelock home and school award, which was awarded for being a helper.. this is what she does the best, she loves to lend a helping hand... just like her mother.
Erica, on the other hand, would much rather sit and watch TV than work, which i might add she gets from her father...
I've said all of this to say that while my kids are different, i am very proud of them... it's my prayer that they will grow up to be contributing members of society and become fully devoted followers of Christ. i truly believe that the second prayer will help with the first.
Erica, on the other hand, would much rather sit and watch TV than work, which i might add she gets from her father...
I've said all of this to say that while my kids are different, i am very proud of them... it's my prayer that they will grow up to be contributing members of society and become fully devoted followers of Christ. i truly believe that the second prayer will help with the first.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
take a walk
Bill Hybels wrote a book a few years back called "just walk across the room" the basic premise of the book is that evangelism is as simple as taking a walk across the room and saying hello to someone you don't know.
I have, for the last few years, been talking a walk with a fellow in our community. he is, by his own admission, not a religious man, but i have been trying my hardest to show him the love and compassion of Jesus Christ.
i don't know if he will ever accept Jesus as his lord and savior, but i am only responsible to "take a walk". I do know, that i have left an impression on him and his family.
he has told me several times that he and i hit it off, because i didn't "preach to him".
i tried to become his friend first, and by becoming his friend, i have had the chance to pray for him more times than not.
i know that evangelism is much bigger than walking across the room, but i think it can be as simple as walking across the room.
i am glad that the Lord has used me to impact the life of this man, and i am praying that he will, one day, come to know Jesus.
do you need to take a walk and become a friend to someone? you never know where it might lead.
I have, for the last few years, been talking a walk with a fellow in our community. he is, by his own admission, not a religious man, but i have been trying my hardest to show him the love and compassion of Jesus Christ.
i don't know if he will ever accept Jesus as his lord and savior, but i am only responsible to "take a walk". I do know, that i have left an impression on him and his family.
he has told me several times that he and i hit it off, because i didn't "preach to him".
i tried to become his friend first, and by becoming his friend, i have had the chance to pray for him more times than not.
i know that evangelism is much bigger than walking across the room, but i think it can be as simple as walking across the room.
i am glad that the Lord has used me to impact the life of this man, and i am praying that he will, one day, come to know Jesus.
do you need to take a walk and become a friend to someone? you never know where it might lead.
Monday, June 14, 2010
new posts....
.....may be lacking in the next few weeks. with us packing up and moving, (and on vacation too) i might not have too much to say, but i will be back again once we are "settled" in at Maple Ridge, which, by the way, we are looking forward to....
thanks to you all for reading in the past, and i will try to keep up on the blog at a later
date.
thanks to you all for reading in the past, and i will try to keep up on the blog at a later
date.
Monday, June 7, 2010
My life in boxes
that's an interesting title, isn't it? In case you haven't heard-- or you've been out of the country for the last few months, my family and I are moving. We have been called to Pastor the Maple Ridge Wesleyan Church, a task that we are looking forward to very much--- anyway, back to the post...
We are starting to put all of our stuff in boxes, as this makes moving much easier. As I was filling up a box (notice I said "a box", I don't like packing) as I was packing a box, I began to ask myself "do you really need that?"
I tend to, oh how shall I say it, hold on to things. I come by it honestly enough, for i think we all hold on to things too much. (it could be a harsh word that was spoken to us years ago, or it could be stuff, either way we all hold on to stuff....)
As I was packing this box, I was also throwing stuff out. I came to the conclusion that If i haven't used it in the last 6 months, I probably don't need it to begin with, so it make it's way to Value Village, or the garbage can.
This reminds me of the words of Jesus: "A man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions" (Luke 12:15b, NIV).
Our life is not measured, according to Jesus, by the amount of "Stuff" we have.
Eventually, all our stuff, will, one day, go in a box. All that you have will, one day, be packed up. John Ortberg said "when the game is over, it all goes back in the box."
So take a look at some of the stuff that you have, it could be that maybe you don't need that 5th gold Rolex, or that extra drill press, or that.... well I hope you get the idea.
If you would like to have some extra "stuff" I know where you will be able to get some......
We are starting to put all of our stuff in boxes, as this makes moving much easier. As I was filling up a box (notice I said "a box", I don't like packing) as I was packing a box, I began to ask myself "do you really need that?"
I tend to, oh how shall I say it, hold on to things. I come by it honestly enough, for i think we all hold on to things too much. (it could be a harsh word that was spoken to us years ago, or it could be stuff, either way we all hold on to stuff....)
As I was packing this box, I was also throwing stuff out. I came to the conclusion that If i haven't used it in the last 6 months, I probably don't need it to begin with, so it make it's way to Value Village, or the garbage can.
This reminds me of the words of Jesus: "A man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions" (Luke 12:15b, NIV).
Our life is not measured, according to Jesus, by the amount of "Stuff" we have.
Eventually, all our stuff, will, one day, go in a box. All that you have will, one day, be packed up. John Ortberg said "when the game is over, it all goes back in the box."
So take a look at some of the stuff that you have, it could be that maybe you don't need that 5th gold Rolex, or that extra drill press, or that.... well I hope you get the idea.
If you would like to have some extra "stuff" I know where you will be able to get some......
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
quote
as I've mentioned in an earlier post, I am reading John Ortberg's new book:" the me I want to be". It is a good book.. makes one think.
Here is the quote I read yesterday and have been thinking about off and on since: "When someone bumps into me, what spills out of me reveals what is inside of me". (pg. 46)
what he is referring to here is when someone "bumps" into us, what comes out of us, should be good. When the Holy Spirit invades our lives, He should fill us with His life-giving water, and that should come out of our lives when we are "bumped" into by someone, or when we face trouble, or hardships.
It all comes back to what Jesus said in Matthew 12: 35: "The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him." (NIV)
If Evil is going into our lives, then when someone "bumps" into us, evil will come out. But if, and this should be the case if you are a disciple of Jesus, you put good in, then good will come out when someone "bumps" into you.
I know I still have work to do in this area... how about you, if I happen to "bump" into you, what will come out of you.. Good (the life-giving water of the Holy Spirit) or Bad?
Here is the quote I read yesterday and have been thinking about off and on since: "When someone bumps into me, what spills out of me reveals what is inside of me". (pg. 46)
what he is referring to here is when someone "bumps" into us, what comes out of us, should be good. When the Holy Spirit invades our lives, He should fill us with His life-giving water, and that should come out of our lives when we are "bumped" into by someone, or when we face trouble, or hardships.
It all comes back to what Jesus said in Matthew 12: 35: "The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him." (NIV)
If Evil is going into our lives, then when someone "bumps" into us, evil will come out. But if, and this should be the case if you are a disciple of Jesus, you put good in, then good will come out when someone "bumps" into you.
I know I still have work to do in this area... how about you, if I happen to "bump" into you, what will come out of you.. Good (the life-giving water of the Holy Spirit) or Bad?
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
I've been thinking.....
Usually, when My wife says that, it ends up costing me money.... or maybe it's the other way around... anyway,
I have had this thought in my brain the last few weeks, I am not sure what to make of it, or even if I should expand on it or not, but here it is
"why is it that people in the church-- the one's who have been saved by grace-- are sometimes the least likely to show that same grace to other people" ??
it's an interesting thought, right? Maybe I am way off base here, but often times I am "ungraceful" in my dealings with people, even though it's only because of Grace that I have been saved...
I need to, as John Ortberg suggests in one of his books (when the game is over it all goes back in the box) to learn how to ""play with grace, win with grace and lose with grace..."
my kids are yelling at each other right now... .. I guess there is no time like the present to to show some Grace.
I have had this thought in my brain the last few weeks, I am not sure what to make of it, or even if I should expand on it or not, but here it is
"why is it that people in the church-- the one's who have been saved by grace-- are sometimes the least likely to show that same grace to other people" ??
it's an interesting thought, right? Maybe I am way off base here, but often times I am "ungraceful" in my dealings with people, even though it's only because of Grace that I have been saved...
I need to, as John Ortberg suggests in one of his books (when the game is over it all goes back in the box) to learn how to ""play with grace, win with grace and lose with grace..."
my kids are yelling at each other right now... .. I guess there is no time like the present to to show some Grace.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Quote
I read this quote today during my quite time with the Lord.. It is taken from Rick Warren's Book "God's Power to change your life".. Here it is:
"God produces the fruit of the Spirit in us by allowing us to encounter situations and people with characteristics that are exactly the opposite of the Fruit of the Spirit." (pg.44)
Interesting.
If I have read this correctly, God, who wants to grow in me the 9 Fruit of the Spirit, (that's all nine, not one, two or five, If I am a disciple of Jesus, I am to have all 9 fruit) He will put in my path people who don't have the Fruit of the Spirit.
Rick explains this quote by saying that if we want to love, (the first fruit) God will not give us people that we love, that's easy. God, who wants to grow the Fruit of the Spirit called Love in His children, will put people in our lives who are "hard to love" this, Rick says, will allow God to grow the Fruit of Love in our lives.
It makes sense. If I want to have Patience, (which I do, especially with my kids) then I need to have an encounter with someone who takes Patience. It's the same way with the other 7 Fruit.
God wants to grow these fruit in our Lives, and, this takes, time. Just as plants are not grown in one day, the Fruit of the Spirit will take time to "grow" in my life.
By allowing these 9 fruit to be in my life, I am becoming more and more like my Savior, Jesus Christ.
It's as a bumper sticker once said "God wants spiritual fruits, not religious nuts"
"God produces the fruit of the Spirit in us by allowing us to encounter situations and people with characteristics that are exactly the opposite of the Fruit of the Spirit." (pg.44)
Interesting.
If I have read this correctly, God, who wants to grow in me the 9 Fruit of the Spirit, (that's all nine, not one, two or five, If I am a disciple of Jesus, I am to have all 9 fruit) He will put in my path people who don't have the Fruit of the Spirit.
Rick explains this quote by saying that if we want to love, (the first fruit) God will not give us people that we love, that's easy. God, who wants to grow the Fruit of the Spirit called Love in His children, will put people in our lives who are "hard to love" this, Rick says, will allow God to grow the Fruit of Love in our lives.
It makes sense. If I want to have Patience, (which I do, especially with my kids) then I need to have an encounter with someone who takes Patience. It's the same way with the other 7 Fruit.
God wants to grow these fruit in our Lives, and, this takes, time. Just as plants are not grown in one day, the Fruit of the Spirit will take time to "grow" in my life.
By allowing these 9 fruit to be in my life, I am becoming more and more like my Savior, Jesus Christ.
It's as a bumper sticker once said "God wants spiritual fruits, not religious nuts"
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
2 for 1
Here is the second post of the day. (this means that I am off the hook in posting for a few extra days....)
As I mentioned before, i love to read. I have been known, to have 5 books on the go all at once. (maybe this is why it takes me so long to finish even 1 of them)
One of the books I am reading in John Ortberg's new book. "the me I want to be>> becoming God's best version of you" what a book. I highly recommend it. While I am only in chapter 2, I have been left with some things to think about, here's one or two of those things:
God made me to be me. He didn't make me to be anyone else . He didn't make me to stay the way that I am. He expects me to become "a new creation". I am not supposed to compare my life with that of anyone else, because I am not anyone else. I am who God created me to be.... let me rephrase that... I want to become the me God wants me to be.
This is a process, it takes time.
If God has a plan in mind for me, chances are He has a plan for you as well. Sometimes we get caught up in comparing ourselves with others, or we become the "me someone else wants me to become" when in reality, God wants us to be us. He'll do the changing, if we will do the submitting.
I don't know if you got your money's worth today or not, but as my Uncle likes to say "you get what you paid for...."
As I mentioned before, i love to read. I have been known, to have 5 books on the go all at once. (maybe this is why it takes me so long to finish even 1 of them)
One of the books I am reading in John Ortberg's new book. "the me I want to be>> becoming God's best version of you" what a book. I highly recommend it. While I am only in chapter 2, I have been left with some things to think about, here's one or two of those things:
God made me to be me. He didn't make me to be anyone else . He didn't make me to stay the way that I am. He expects me to become "a new creation". I am not supposed to compare my life with that of anyone else, because I am not anyone else. I am who God created me to be.... let me rephrase that... I want to become the me God wants me to be.
This is a process, it takes time.
If God has a plan in mind for me, chances are He has a plan for you as well. Sometimes we get caught up in comparing ourselves with others, or we become the "me someone else wants me to become" when in reality, God wants us to be us. He'll do the changing, if we will do the submitting.
I don't know if you got your money's worth today or not, but as my Uncle likes to say "you get what you paid for...."
2 for 1
It's a 2 for the price of 1 today... don't you feel special?
My Friend and colleague, Rev. AJ Plaizier, whom I travelled to Africa with, posted this quote in his blog this past week, and I wanted to "borrow" it from him as is.
"That terrible zone of confusion so evident in the whole life of the Christian community could be cleared up in one day if the followers of Christ would begin to follow Christ instead of each other." A.W. Tozer, The Pursuit of Man, p.117
Enough Said.
My Friend and colleague, Rev. AJ Plaizier, whom I travelled to Africa with, posted this quote in his blog this past week, and I wanted to "borrow" it from him as is.
"That terrible zone of confusion so evident in the whole life of the Christian community could be cleared up in one day if the followers of Christ would begin to follow Christ instead of each other." A.W. Tozer, The Pursuit of Man, p.117
Enough Said.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Reading
I love to read.... this was not always the case... when i was in school, I didn't like to read. I remember one particular book report. It was a Saturday morning and I was "supposed" to be reading this book for a french report, and my father asked me what I was doing. I told him I was done reading for the day, and he asked me what I read.... I tried to tell him some mumble jumble, but needless to say I had to go back and read the book again. (If I recall, I didn't get a good grade on that report... but that's not the point...)
I have a page a day calendar on my desk that gives me "road sign" statements, and this is the one for today: "better to be over the hill and under it"
Is it?
Is it really better to be over the hill than under it? Let's remember that this statement is completely contrary to what we as Disciples of Jesus believe. We believe that once we die, we will be with Him, so I would have to disagree with that statement. It's better to be under the hill than to be over it....
Unless of course, you don't know Jesus as your Lord and Savior. in that case it is better for you to be over the hill than under it.
I also read this a long time ago: No Jesus, No Peace. Know Jesus Know Peace.
Do you know Jesus? If you do, then it truly will be better to be under the hill than over it, no matter how old you might be.
I have a page a day calendar on my desk that gives me "road sign" statements, and this is the one for today: "better to be over the hill and under it"
Is it?
Is it really better to be over the hill than under it? Let's remember that this statement is completely contrary to what we as Disciples of Jesus believe. We believe that once we die, we will be with Him, so I would have to disagree with that statement. It's better to be under the hill than to be over it....
Unless of course, you don't know Jesus as your Lord and Savior. in that case it is better for you to be over the hill than under it.
I also read this a long time ago: No Jesus, No Peace. Know Jesus Know Peace.
Do you know Jesus? If you do, then it truly will be better to be under the hill than over it, no matter how old you might be.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Get out of the boat
On Sunday, I will be speaking from the passage that led me to resign as Pastor of the Havelock Wesleyan Church.
The Passage is taken from Matthew 14:22-33, and it's the account of Peter walking on the water. I have found solice in this text of Scripture over the last few weeks, as I've wrestled with this important decision. I have come to a couple of conclusions taken from this passage.
1. God wants His childen to get out of the boat.
I don't think God intended us to stay in our "boats" for life. I think it's when we choose to get out of the boat that He does His best work in and through us, becasue outside of the boat is where life truly begins.
2. Fear
Many people don't get out of the boat becasue of fear. Peter was fine as long as he was looking at Jesus, but when he saw the wind and the waves, he became scared and sank like a birck.
When we get out of the boat, we start playing the "what if game", and like Peter, we sink. We become afraid, afraid that Jesus can't help us.
3. Trust
Once out of the boat, we've got to trust that the same God who told us to get out of the boat, will be the same God who will look after us outside of the boat. this was Peter's downfall, and if the truth be told, it's my downfall too. We must, as it says in Proverbs 3:5-6 "trust in the Lord with all our strenght..."
I beleive that God wants us to get out of the boat. to not be content with the "status quo". I beleive that God wants us to get out of the boat and walk toward Jesus Christ.
I have, will you?
The Passage is taken from Matthew 14:22-33, and it's the account of Peter walking on the water. I have found solice in this text of Scripture over the last few weeks, as I've wrestled with this important decision. I have come to a couple of conclusions taken from this passage.
1. God wants His childen to get out of the boat.
I don't think God intended us to stay in our "boats" for life. I think it's when we choose to get out of the boat that He does His best work in and through us, becasue outside of the boat is where life truly begins.
2. Fear
Many people don't get out of the boat becasue of fear. Peter was fine as long as he was looking at Jesus, but when he saw the wind and the waves, he became scared and sank like a birck.
When we get out of the boat, we start playing the "what if game", and like Peter, we sink. We become afraid, afraid that Jesus can't help us.
3. Trust
Once out of the boat, we've got to trust that the same God who told us to get out of the boat, will be the same God who will look after us outside of the boat. this was Peter's downfall, and if the truth be told, it's my downfall too. We must, as it says in Proverbs 3:5-6 "trust in the Lord with all our strenght..."
I beleive that God wants us to get out of the boat. to not be content with the "status quo". I beleive that God wants us to get out of the boat and walk toward Jesus Christ.
I have, will you?
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Church
Tonight is one of my last Board Meetings as Pastor of the Havelock Wesleyan Church. Hard to imagine. What I also have a hard time thinking about is that that I have only 5 more messages to preach. There may be a funeral here and there, (I hope not) but the fact remains that my time is coming to a close. I am both sad and excited.
First of all I am saddned because I have spent the last 7 years of my life in Havelock. My kids were born here. I've seen God at work many, many times in this church, and I am going to miss the people. some of my best friends live in this community, and I will not be seeing them as much as I do now. Some of these make me sad.
But I am also excited. I am excited becasue the Lord is going to do something more in the life of Havelock Wesleyan Church and her people.
I beleive that God has done some wonderful things in this little church, and I think my moving on means that He's got more to accomplish here. I'm fine with not being the one to "get r done". Remember: John the Baptist was sent before Chirst, not after. So I am excited for this church and what may happen in the future.
But I am also excited for me, and for my family. Starting in July, I will be the new Pastor of the Maple Ridge Wesleyan Church. I am excited for the challenge, and the ways that the Lord is going to use me and my family in that church. If this church is any indication of the Work the Lord has done in my life, I can't wait to see what He has in store for us in this next Phase of Ministry.
I'd apprecaite your prayers as we finish strong here at Havelock Wesleyan and begin our new Church in July.
First of all I am saddned because I have spent the last 7 years of my life in Havelock. My kids were born here. I've seen God at work many, many times in this church, and I am going to miss the people. some of my best friends live in this community, and I will not be seeing them as much as I do now. Some of these make me sad.
But I am also excited. I am excited becasue the Lord is going to do something more in the life of Havelock Wesleyan Church and her people.
I beleive that God has done some wonderful things in this little church, and I think my moving on means that He's got more to accomplish here. I'm fine with not being the one to "get r done". Remember: John the Baptist was sent before Chirst, not after. So I am excited for this church and what may happen in the future.
But I am also excited for me, and for my family. Starting in July, I will be the new Pastor of the Maple Ridge Wesleyan Church. I am excited for the challenge, and the ways that the Lord is going to use me and my family in that church. If this church is any indication of the Work the Lord has done in my life, I can't wait to see what He has in store for us in this next Phase of Ministry.
I'd apprecaite your prayers as we finish strong here at Havelock Wesleyan and begin our new Church in July.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Good Friday
Well, today is Good Friday. at least for me it's a good Friday.
it was on this day, over 2000 years ago that Jesus paid the price for the sin of the world. He Died the death I was supposed to die, and because of His Death, I have been set free from my sin. While this day was hard on Jesus, it had to be done, there was no other way of satisifying the wrath of God, for sin demands a perfect sacrifice, and Jesus was that perfect sacrifice, so for me it;s a good Friday, becasue Jesus has taken my sins away...... have you accepted the Work that Jesus did on your behalf? If so, this is a Good Friday for you as well!
Have a Blessed Easter, and Remember, He is Risen!
it was on this day, over 2000 years ago that Jesus paid the price for the sin of the world. He Died the death I was supposed to die, and because of His Death, I have been set free from my sin. While this day was hard on Jesus, it had to be done, there was no other way of satisifying the wrath of God, for sin demands a perfect sacrifice, and Jesus was that perfect sacrifice, so for me it;s a good Friday, becasue Jesus has taken my sins away...... have you accepted the Work that Jesus did on your behalf? If so, this is a Good Friday for you as well!
Have a Blessed Easter, and Remember, He is Risen!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
We need help
I glanced at the headlines on Yahoo! this morning, and was hit with a watershed moment.. from reading about a"coming out" to the arrests of a "Christian Militia", I can only think of one thing... WE NEED HELP
Somewhere, deep inside us all, is a need that only Jesus Christ can fill. and I pray that Jesus would fill my need, becasue I need help just as much as everyone else does. "Lord have mercy on me, for I am a sinner!"
Somewhere, deep inside us all, is a need that only Jesus Christ can fill. and I pray that Jesus would fill my need, becasue I need help just as much as everyone else does. "Lord have mercy on me, for I am a sinner!"
Friday, March 19, 2010
Update on us...
It's been an interesting journey for us as a family these last few weeks.
As you may (or may not) know, I resigned as Pastor of Havelock Wesleyan Church, feeling the Lord asking me (us) to get out of the boat and walk towards Him, we did, and I am happy to report that we now the New Pastoral Family of the Maple Ridge Wesleyan Church. We will assume our duties in that church in mid-july.
I have been telling people that I am excited but scared. Our girls were born here, our best friends live here.. in short we've spent the last 7 years of our lives in a place that we love, but I have been learing that the Lord wants me to be obedient to what He has, and so we will be moving on. I have no regrets about this at all, I am glad that the Lord is teaching me, and leading me, and considers me faithful enough to trust me to lead another church. I've learnt a lot here in Havelock, but I know that I have more to learn.
I've been praying for the Next steps for our church for a long time now, and I beleive that this is the next step for us as a church.. so if you would keep the Havelock Wesleyan CHurch in your prayers, as she looks for the right pastor. I beleive the Lord knows what He is doing and it's up to us to trust in Him......
I've ramblled on enough for one post...
As you may (or may not) know, I resigned as Pastor of Havelock Wesleyan Church, feeling the Lord asking me (us) to get out of the boat and walk towards Him, we did, and I am happy to report that we now the New Pastoral Family of the Maple Ridge Wesleyan Church. We will assume our duties in that church in mid-july.
I have been telling people that I am excited but scared. Our girls were born here, our best friends live here.. in short we've spent the last 7 years of our lives in a place that we love, but I have been learing that the Lord wants me to be obedient to what He has, and so we will be moving on. I have no regrets about this at all, I am glad that the Lord is teaching me, and leading me, and considers me faithful enough to trust me to lead another church. I've learnt a lot here in Havelock, but I know that I have more to learn.
I've been praying for the Next steps for our church for a long time now, and I beleive that this is the next step for us as a church.. so if you would keep the Havelock Wesleyan CHurch in your prayers, as she looks for the right pastor. I beleive the Lord knows what He is doing and it's up to us to trust in Him......
I've ramblled on enough for one post...
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Walking on Water
The Lord has been, for the last few weeks, leading me to a passage of Scripture found in matthew 14. for those of you who don't have a bible program to look this scripture up, (even though you could click on this link: www.biblegateway.com to have a free bible) I will include the passage here:
"Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, 24but the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.
27But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
28"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."
29"Come," he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"
31Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
32And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down." (Mt. 14:22-32, NIV)
As I just said, the Lord has laid this passage on my heart for a while now, and beleive that He is asking me to get out of the boat and walk toward Him. I am not sure what all of this means, but to quote one of my favorite author's "If you want to walk on water, you've got to get out of the boat"
I want to walk toward Jesus, becasue by walking toward Jesus I am obeying Him. and really that's all the Lord is looking for... He wants us to be obedient. So I need to ask you, after just reading this passage of scripture, what might Jesus be asking you to do? Might He be asking you to give up something? Might He be asking you to follow Him?
What so often happens, though, is that we become like Peter. We agree that we should get out of the boat, and thigns are fine, but then we look around and see that we are out on a limb, and we see the wind and the waves, and we, like Peter, begin to sink. At that moment, we cry out to Jesus for help and He asks us the same question that He asked Peter: "You of little faith,...why did you doubt?" (Mt. 14:31, NIV)
Did you get that? Jesus wants us to place our trust in Him. He knows what He is doing and wants us to Obey Him.
So... I will step out of the boat and begin to walk toward Him.. what will you do, sit in the boat or get out and walk? It's up to you, but as for me, I'll be walking toward Jesus, and if I fall, I'll be the first to ask for help.
"Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, 24but the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.
27But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
28"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."
29"Come," he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"
31Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
32And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down." (Mt. 14:22-32, NIV)
As I just said, the Lord has laid this passage on my heart for a while now, and beleive that He is asking me to get out of the boat and walk toward Him. I am not sure what all of this means, but to quote one of my favorite author's "If you want to walk on water, you've got to get out of the boat"
I want to walk toward Jesus, becasue by walking toward Jesus I am obeying Him. and really that's all the Lord is looking for... He wants us to be obedient. So I need to ask you, after just reading this passage of scripture, what might Jesus be asking you to do? Might He be asking you to give up something? Might He be asking you to follow Him?
What so often happens, though, is that we become like Peter. We agree that we should get out of the boat, and thigns are fine, but then we look around and see that we are out on a limb, and we see the wind and the waves, and we, like Peter, begin to sink. At that moment, we cry out to Jesus for help and He asks us the same question that He asked Peter: "You of little faith,...why did you doubt?" (Mt. 14:31, NIV)
Did you get that? Jesus wants us to place our trust in Him. He knows what He is doing and wants us to Obey Him.
So... I will step out of the boat and begin to walk toward Him.. what will you do, sit in the boat or get out and walk? It's up to you, but as for me, I'll be walking toward Jesus, and if I fall, I'll be the first to ask for help.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Bible...
Last Sunday (Feb 21st), before Sunday school, I noticed that my daughter was upset. Upon looking at my wife, she told me that Emma forgot to bring her Bible to church. I asked Emma how she managed to do that, and she said, with a tear in her eye "i dont know". My wife went on to tell me that if Emma doesnt have her Bible at sunday school, she would not get a sticker....I asked if Emma wanted one of my bibles, and she immediately cheered up. "Yes" she said. So off we went to my office and i gave her one of my bibles to use for Sunday school.
this makes me think and leads me to ask the question.. do you take your bible to church? Sure, seeing the verses up on PowerPoint in nice, but it's nicer yet to hold a copy of the Word of God in your hand.
You see, up until recently, church memebrs didnt have the luxiory of having a bible to use in church. The clergy were the only ones to have a copy, and they read passages to people on Sunday. As nice as that is, It's nicer yet to have people open up thier bibles and follow along... if we are supposed to be students of the Word, then shouldnt we bring our copy to church each Sunday? Just a thought...
this makes me think and leads me to ask the question.. do you take your bible to church? Sure, seeing the verses up on PowerPoint in nice, but it's nicer yet to hold a copy of the Word of God in your hand.
You see, up until recently, church memebrs didnt have the luxiory of having a bible to use in church. The clergy were the only ones to have a copy, and they read passages to people on Sunday. As nice as that is, It's nicer yet to have people open up thier bibles and follow along... if we are supposed to be students of the Word, then shouldnt we bring our copy to church each Sunday? Just a thought...
Friday, February 12, 2010
Valentines Day
My daughter came home from school on Friday with several Valentines Day cards that she’d received from classmates.
This isn’t anything new, for when I was in school; we did the same thing type of thing…. You would get a bunch of valentines, write names on them and give them to everyone in your class, and one special one was for that special someone….
This concept got me thinking… If we were to receive a valentine from God, what would it say?
After a brief search of the Bible, I’ve found it and I want to share it with you now:
For God so loVed the world,
that he gAve
His onLy
BegottEn
SoN
That whosoever
Believes In Him
Should Not Perrish
but have Everlasting life"
God has given us Jesus Christ. He is the best Valentines Day gift that we could ever receive! Have you received Your gift?
This isn’t anything new, for when I was in school; we did the same thing type of thing…. You would get a bunch of valentines, write names on them and give them to everyone in your class, and one special one was for that special someone….
This concept got me thinking… If we were to receive a valentine from God, what would it say?
After a brief search of the Bible, I’ve found it and I want to share it with you now:
For God so loVed the world,
that he gAve
His onLy
BegottEn
SoN
That whosoever
Believes In Him
Should Not Perrish
but have Everlasting life"
God has given us Jesus Christ. He is the best Valentines Day gift that we could ever receive! Have you received Your gift?
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
funny isn't it....
i was at the post office the other day and i was talking with a fellow (one of the nice parts of my job, i get paid to visit with people!) anyway, he asked me if i had ever gone skiing, and i told him i had been once, but had a bad experinece with it, and i have never been back since.
Immediately i told him, "you know that's a lot like people and church, they have one bad experience and they never go back again." he told me that was intersting, and then the conversation changed to something different.
i think what i said that day is true. people have one bad experience at church and they never go back. but here's what i am wondering:, if we have a bad experience at walmart, do we go back? how about at your favorite restaurant? what about with your car? how about your political party? i know plenty of people that if their car burt, they wouldn't think anything of it to buy the same brand, or if their polititician burnt thier house down, they would still vote for that party, but why is it that we have one bad experience at church and we vow never to go back?
i get it that some people have truly been hurt by the church and that stinks. if that has been your experience, i am sorry, would you consider giving it another try?
that statement makes this next statement very hard for me to put in writing... i guess i will have to give skiing another try... much to my wife's pleasure
Immediately i told him, "you know that's a lot like people and church, they have one bad experience and they never go back again." he told me that was intersting, and then the conversation changed to something different.
i think what i said that day is true. people have one bad experience at church and they never go back. but here's what i am wondering:, if we have a bad experience at walmart, do we go back? how about at your favorite restaurant? what about with your car? how about your political party? i know plenty of people that if their car burt, they wouldn't think anything of it to buy the same brand, or if their polititician burnt thier house down, they would still vote for that party, but why is it that we have one bad experience at church and we vow never to go back?
i get it that some people have truly been hurt by the church and that stinks. if that has been your experience, i am sorry, would you consider giving it another try?
that statement makes this next statement very hard for me to put in writing... i guess i will have to give skiing another try... much to my wife's pleasure
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Report from Africa
tomorrow, in church, i will be giving a report from Africa, more specifically, from Ghana, where I spend 16 of a 19 day missions trip. (if you want to know where the other days went, speak to me later, but it involves snow, london and airplane de-icers)
Where should I begin? I am honestly not sure, but I'll give it a try here. This was my second trip to Ghana, the first one was a vision tour back in 2007. the purpose of this trip was to teach and train pastors in the Northern Part of Ghana with the basic requirements for ministreal licencing. I, along with Rev. Bill Lea, taught the New Testament, and Revs. Denn Guptill and AJ Plaizier taught Basic Beleifs.
The teaching aspect was very cool. While I dont consider myself a teacher, I have studied-- and am studying the Bible-- and what better way to learn than by teaching-- So we went and taught. For 6 days, (I think) we taugh, answered questions and learned a little bit of what some of these minsiters live like.
After a much needed day off at Mole National Park, where we saw- among other thigns-- ELEPHANTS!!!! We began travelling to churches and baptizing people. (we also served communion to one church people) All in all our team baptized 87 beleivers. That was cool!!!!
I beleive that God is working in the churches of Ghana, and it was very cool for me to be able to experience it first hand. I loved my time in Ghana, and, as I did last time, am praying about a return trip. I would love to take my wife to experience life in Ghana with me. (the kids too, but then the price would get out of hand!!!)
I think much was accomplished in Ghana, and I hope and pray that God will bless the ministers who came to the course, and He will use what was taught to help people in thier walk with Jesus.
I'd love to share more about my time in Ghana, if you are interested in knowing more, just let me know.
Where should I begin? I am honestly not sure, but I'll give it a try here. This was my second trip to Ghana, the first one was a vision tour back in 2007. the purpose of this trip was to teach and train pastors in the Northern Part of Ghana with the basic requirements for ministreal licencing. I, along with Rev. Bill Lea, taught the New Testament, and Revs. Denn Guptill and AJ Plaizier taught Basic Beleifs.
The teaching aspect was very cool. While I dont consider myself a teacher, I have studied-- and am studying the Bible-- and what better way to learn than by teaching-- So we went and taught. For 6 days, (I think) we taugh, answered questions and learned a little bit of what some of these minsiters live like.
After a much needed day off at Mole National Park, where we saw- among other thigns-- ELEPHANTS!!!! We began travelling to churches and baptizing people. (we also served communion to one church people) All in all our team baptized 87 beleivers. That was cool!!!!
I beleive that God is working in the churches of Ghana, and it was very cool for me to be able to experience it first hand. I loved my time in Ghana, and, as I did last time, am praying about a return trip. I would love to take my wife to experience life in Ghana with me. (the kids too, but then the price would get out of hand!!!)
I think much was accomplished in Ghana, and I hope and pray that God will bless the ministers who came to the course, and He will use what was taught to help people in thier walk with Jesus.
I'd love to share more about my time in Ghana, if you are interested in knowing more, just let me know.
Friday, January 1, 2010
New Year
I might not be the first to wish you a Happy New year, i wont be the last... so Happy New year! Happy New decade.... hard to beleive that we have to get used to using 2010 not 2009... anyway,
If I had one wish for you folk reading this blog, it would be the message I spoke to our church at the start of 2009.
The Bible says in Psalm 34:8 "Taste and see that the Lord is good, blessed is the man who takes refuge in him." (NIV)
God wants all people to taste Him. Try Him and see that He alone is good, and He alone can fill you with what you need.... HIM! If we taste God, we will see that He is good, and we will be blessed becasue of it.
I don't know if you go to church or not, but could i ask you to at least follow this verse, get in a church and partake of the bounty that God has prepared just for you.. God wants you to come to Him and see that He is good.
Grab your plate and prepare to feast on God!
If I had one wish for you folk reading this blog, it would be the message I spoke to our church at the start of 2009.
The Bible says in Psalm 34:8 "Taste and see that the Lord is good, blessed is the man who takes refuge in him." (NIV)
God wants all people to taste Him. Try Him and see that He alone is good, and He alone can fill you with what you need.... HIM! If we taste God, we will see that He is good, and we will be blessed becasue of it.
I don't know if you go to church or not, but could i ask you to at least follow this verse, get in a church and partake of the bounty that God has prepared just for you.. God wants you to come to Him and see that He is good.
Grab your plate and prepare to feast on God!
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