As we celebrate the birth of Jesus once again in our world and lives. May you like Mary take it all in and hold the significance of this birth in your heart and may it also be reflected in the way you live your life so that God's kingdom will become a reality here on earth as it is in heaven!
Peace on earth!
(Signing off for a couple weeks... Back January 10!)
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Take Time...
In the final days of hustle and bustle, don't forget to take time to reflect on what Christmas really is about. Don't get caught up in your lists and chores that you miss the wonder and awe of God in the flesh, living among us, in us and through us! Don't miss the joy and delight of seeing God at work in and through you!
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Help Youth Tonight...
The Youth will be wrapping presents for you tonight from 6-9 p.m. at the Ministry Center (302 South Blvd) for a donation. The money raised will help them get to National Youth Conference in Colorado and to go on some workcamps this summer.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Beautiful Feet!
Do you think your feet are beautiful?
I don't! In fact, I think feet are ugly! Yet many of us do all kinds of things to make our feet look beautiful! Some of us cover them with shoes! Some get pedicures, paint the nails, wear toe rings or ankle bracelets or get tattoos on them in the hopes of making them beautiful. But I have news for you... it doesn't work!
But you can have beautiful feet. Isaiah 52:7-10 says that it's not how are feet look that makes them beautiful, it is what they DO that makes them beautiful! He says that feet on the go for God are beautiful! He says that those who go out to share the Good News and Peace of God have beautiful feet. He says that those who proclaim God's salvation and that God's reign has come have beautiful feet!
And he says that when we use our beautiful feet to do all of that a new song will rise up and the eyes of the world will take notice of God's reign.
So, my prayer is that our feet will be beautiful as we go and share God's good news and peace, announce his salvation and reign.
I don't! In fact, I think feet are ugly! Yet many of us do all kinds of things to make our feet look beautiful! Some of us cover them with shoes! Some get pedicures, paint the nails, wear toe rings or ankle bracelets or get tattoos on them in the hopes of making them beautiful. But I have news for you... it doesn't work!
But you can have beautiful feet. Isaiah 52:7-10 says that it's not how are feet look that makes them beautiful, it is what they DO that makes them beautiful! He says that feet on the go for God are beautiful! He says that those who go out to share the Good News and Peace of God have beautiful feet. He says that those who proclaim God's salvation and that God's reign has come have beautiful feet!
And he says that when we use our beautiful feet to do all of that a new song will rise up and the eyes of the world will take notice of God's reign.
So, my prayer is that our feet will be beautiful as we go and share God's good news and peace, announce his salvation and reign.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
10:30 is on!
Community of Joy will have it's 10:30 worship gathering today! We will not have our 9 a.m. which will give the roads time to clear up and the sidewalk crew time to shovel.
Thanks to all who are helping get ready to gather.
Please feel free to stay home if you are at all uncomfortable traveling. We do not want anyone to get hurt coming to worship!
Thanks to all who are helping get ready to gather.
Please feel free to stay home if you are at all uncomfortable traveling. We do not want anyone to get hurt coming to worship!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Mark Batterson's "Primal: The Quest for the Lost Soul of Christianity"
I just finished reading my advance copy of Mark Batterson's about to be released book "Primal: The Quest for the Lost Soul of Christianity." Having already read Mark's previous books, I came to this book with HIGH expectations. He didn't let me down. It is a good read and I found it very helpful. In many ways, Mark has put into writing some ideas that I have had for a number of years now.
The book's guiding image of peeling back the layers of all that Christianity has evolved into to get back to the "primal" nature of Christianity is a helpful image. The book is designed to take an indepth look at what was most important to Jesus.... the great commandment. Mark writes, "we have a tendency to complicate Christianity. Jesus simplified it: Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. If we are to live out the essence of Christianity, we must commit to being great at this Great Commandment."
And then Mark devotes the chapters in the book to taking a look at what each of those four ways we are to Love God might look like in our world and lives today.
I HIGHLY recommend reading this book and look forward to Mark's next. For more on this book, check out my quotes in previous posts in the last week.
The book's guiding image of peeling back the layers of all that Christianity has evolved into to get back to the "primal" nature of Christianity is a helpful image. The book is designed to take an indepth look at what was most important to Jesus.... the great commandment. Mark writes, "we have a tendency to complicate Christianity. Jesus simplified it: Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. If we are to live out the essence of Christianity, we must commit to being great at this Great Commandment."
And then Mark devotes the chapters in the book to taking a look at what each of those four ways we are to Love God might look like in our world and lives today.
I HIGHLY recommend reading this book and look forward to Mark's next. For more on this book, check out my quotes in previous posts in the last week.
One Fact the Matters a Whole Lot!
In my daily Bible reading today from 2 Peter is this verse..."But do not ignore this one face, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day. The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance." (3:8-9)
The one fact is the Lord loves you! And he desires to see you be free of all that binds you. He desires to see you live an abundant life in his spirit!
What an awesome fact that is!
God is faithful and his faithfulness extends to me and you! WOW!
The one fact is the Lord loves you! And he desires to see you be free of all that binds you. He desires to see you live an abundant life in his spirit!
What an awesome fact that is!
God is faithful and his faithfulness extends to me and you! WOW!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
The end has come....
We are discontinuing our Saturday Night 5:35 at Community of Joy after this Saturday December 19. It has been a good thing to try, but was not achieving the results we had hoped, so for now...
I want to be clear, that I in no way see this as a failure! It would have been a failure not to give it a try when it was such a burning desire I had and it would have been a failure not to recognize it wasn't working and keep beating it. But we gave it a try and now I realize that it isn't the right time and we move on.
I am grateful to the Leadership Team for allowing me to give it a try!
I want to be clear, that I in no way see this as a failure! It would have been a failure not to give it a try when it was such a burning desire I had and it would have been a failure not to recognize it wasn't working and keep beating it. But we gave it a try and now I realize that it isn't the right time and we move on.
I am grateful to the Leadership Team for allowing me to give it a try!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Growth
Here is a thought for today... " A mind stretched by a new idea never returns to its original shape." Oliver Wendell Holmes.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Rediscovering the Wonders of Scripture
Another awesome thought from Mark Batterson's new book, Primal: The Quest for the Lost Soul of Christianity.
"The quest for the lost soul of Christianity always leads us back to the Bible. But rediscovering the wonders of Scripture requires more than reading. That's where the quest begins, but that's not where it ends. Not if you want to get it into your soul. You have to meditate on it. Then you have to live it out. Meditating on it turns one-dimensional knowledge into two dimensional understanding. Living it out turns two-dimensional understanding into three-dimensional obedience....Reading without meditating is like taking one glance through the kaleidoscope without turning it. So many colorful and beautiful patterns of truth remain undiscovered simply because we think we've seen everything there is to see when we haven't seen anything yet."
I can't begin to tell you what an impact reading and meditating on the bible has made in my life, but it is HUGE! I've been reading it regularly for over 20 years now and I still see new insights that impact the way I live my life.
I highly encourage everyone to begin the journey of reading through and meditating on the Bible each day... it WILL change the way you live your life!
"The quest for the lost soul of Christianity always leads us back to the Bible. But rediscovering the wonders of Scripture requires more than reading. That's where the quest begins, but that's not where it ends. Not if you want to get it into your soul. You have to meditate on it. Then you have to live it out. Meditating on it turns one-dimensional knowledge into two dimensional understanding. Living it out turns two-dimensional understanding into three-dimensional obedience....Reading without meditating is like taking one glance through the kaleidoscope without turning it. So many colorful and beautiful patterns of truth remain undiscovered simply because we think we've seen everything there is to see when we haven't seen anything yet."
I can't begin to tell you what an impact reading and meditating on the bible has made in my life, but it is HUGE! I've been reading it regularly for over 20 years now and I still see new insights that impact the way I live my life.
I highly encourage everyone to begin the journey of reading through and meditating on the Bible each day... it WILL change the way you live your life!
Friday, December 11, 2009
Arguing with God
Loving Mark Batterson's new about to be released book, "Primal:A Quest for the Lost Soul of Christianity."
I've been reading it a little each day, but find it hard to put down. I am finding some great thoughts and nuggets.
Here is a thought that struck a chord with me.... "You cannot win an argument with God. If you win, you lose. And if you lose, you win."
Think about that for a while!
I've been reading it a little each day, but find it hard to put down. I am finding some great thoughts and nuggets.
Here is a thought that struck a chord with me.... "You cannot win an argument with God. If you win, you lose. And if you lose, you win."
Think about that for a while!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Shared Blessings....
Another quote from Mark Batterson's new book, Primal. This one goes right along with Community of Joy's Blessing Teams concept.
"The blessings of God are never ends in themselves. And if we use a blessing selfishly, the blessing actually turns into a curse. The blessings of God are always a means to an end. And the end is blessing others. We are blessed to bless."
"The blessings of God are never ends in themselves. And if we use a blessing selfishly, the blessing actually turns into a curse. The blessings of God are always a means to an end. And the end is blessing others. We are blessed to bless."
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Acting and Reacting...
I am enjoying reading my advance copy of Mark Batterson's soon to be released book, Primal:A Quest for the Lost Soul of Christianity". When I am done, I will post a more complete blog entry, but for now, I want to share some awesome nuggets.
Mark writes, "In my experience, it's much easier to act like a Christian than it is to react like one. Anyone can put on an act. But your reactions reveal what is really in your heart. And if you love God with all your heart, you won't just act like it. You'll react like it."
Mark writes, "In my experience, it's much easier to act like a Christian than it is to react like one. Anyone can put on an act. But your reactions reveal what is really in your heart. And if you love God with all your heart, you won't just act like it. You'll react like it."
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Monday, December 7, 2009
What a day!
What a day today was!
It began at 2:40 a.m. for me when the alarm rang too early... but up I jumped and got myself ready to start the day. Met Glen Costa at his house at 4 and then we traveled to our destination in Crisfield ... arrived at 4:45.... what we thought was 15 minutes early, turned out to be 1 hour and 15 minutes early.
The rest of the gang joined us and the captain and mate and soon we were on our way... for me, it was my FIRST ever Rock Fishing trip. And what a trip it was!
After our nearly hour ride to our spot in the Tangier Sound, we put 20 lines in the water and began the trolling. Before the fish got on... we drew straws to see who would reel in the first one. I was the lucky guy! So, when the mate said, "Fish On!" It was my turn. It happened to be on the longest line (340 yards out) and after what was a tiring reel, I landed the BIGGEST fish of the day and of my life! It weighed 38 pounds and was 44 inches long! I almost traded my slot to go second so that I could see how it was done before my turn... glad I didn't as the second guy reeled in the smallest fish of the day. One that my fish could have eaten in one bite!
It was one special and memorable day! Thanks Glenn and Captains Curtis Johns Sr and Jr. They are great captains!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Not Just About Me!
I received a very nice email from a friend who was encouraging me regarding my recent diagnosis of diabetes. He was so happy that I was taking it seriously. Seems his father has diabetes too and chose not to watch his diet, etc. Now he is experiencing eye trouble, feet trouble, and kidney trouble. And it is not just affecting him. It is affecting the whole family. My friend's mom has to drive his dad everywhere because he can't see. My friend's dad is missing out on lots of things he should be enjoying because of limitations due to his diabetes.
Really made me think! Taking care of myself and keeping my diabetes under control is not just about me! My diabetes also could affect my wife, my children, my future grandchildren and my aspirations for my life. That is reason enough for me to take good care of myself. I will monitor my carbohydrate intake (watch my diet), take my medicine, see my doc regularly, monitor my feet and eyes. I don't want to miss out on a thing! And with diabetes, it can be controlled.
Really made me think! Taking care of myself and keeping my diabetes under control is not just about me! My diabetes also could affect my wife, my children, my future grandchildren and my aspirations for my life. That is reason enough for me to take good care of myself. I will monitor my carbohydrate intake (watch my diet), take my medicine, see my doc regularly, monitor my feet and eyes. I don't want to miss out on a thing! And with diabetes, it can be controlled.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
The Gifts you have are NOT yours!
Reading in Romans again today. And one of my favorite chapters in Romans.. # 12 says... "Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord and there are varieties of activities, but the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the COMMON GOOD." 12:4-7.
All the special gifts God has given you are NOT given to you for your benefit. They are given to you for the benefit of the body. For the benefit of all of us. For the benefit of the world. For the benefit of others. NOT YOU! How is that for encouragment?!
It should be! God gives each of us a gift or two so that we can use those gifts for the benefit of others in order that his kingdom might become a reality here and now!
The challenge is to stop hoarding the gift and use it!
Won't you allow God to use you for his glory? Won't you allow the gift you have to make a difference in the church, in the community, in the world?
All the special gifts God has given you are NOT given to you for your benefit. They are given to you for the benefit of the body. For the benefit of all of us. For the benefit of the world. For the benefit of others. NOT YOU! How is that for encouragment?!
It should be! God gives each of us a gift or two so that we can use those gifts for the benefit of others in order that his kingdom might become a reality here and now!
The challenge is to stop hoarding the gift and use it!
Won't you allow God to use you for his glory? Won't you allow the gift you have to make a difference in the church, in the community, in the world?
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Audacious Hope....
This year for Advent at Community of Joy, we are reflecting on God's AUDACIOUS HOPE offered to us especially using the prophecies of Isaiah to guide us.
On Saturday and Sunday, I defined Audacious as the blatent disregard for normal restraints. Think about that in relation to the hope God offers us in Jesus. The creator rubs elbows with the created... now there is a blatent disregard for normal restraints!
Here are some Biblical thoughts on hope from my Daily Readings from today. "And not only that, but we boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character and character produces hope and hope DOES NOT DISAPPOINT us, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us." Romans 5:3-5.
"What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave his up for all of us, will he not with him also give us everything else?....Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?... No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:31,32,35,37-39
On Saturday and Sunday, I defined Audacious as the blatent disregard for normal restraints. Think about that in relation to the hope God offers us in Jesus. The creator rubs elbows with the created... now there is a blatent disregard for normal restraints!
Here are some Biblical thoughts on hope from my Daily Readings from today. "And not only that, but we boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character and character produces hope and hope DOES NOT DISAPPOINT us, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us." Romans 5:3-5.
"What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave his up for all of us, will he not with him also give us everything else?....Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?... No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:31,32,35,37-39
Monday, November 30, 2009
Finally here....
This is a day I have been looking forward to! It is a little after 3 a.m. and I have showered and eaten. Been up for more than half an hour. I have over an hour drive to my hunting destination for the day. Going out for sika in a GREAT spot!
Can't wait to see how the day turns out! Oh how I love deer hunting! Especially sika deer. They are the neatest little creatures and the taste so good!
Can't wait to see how the day turns out! Oh how I love deer hunting! Especially sika deer. They are the neatest little creatures and the taste so good!
Sunday, November 29, 2009
A Change of Scenery
It was WONDERFUL to change location over the Thanksgiving Holiday. The girls were all off and I can work from remote locations very easily due to the cell phone and internet. So, that is what I did... we traveled to Virginia to visit Sharon's family and celebrate Thanksgiving there and while the girls stood in lines on Friday, I worked from my VA office.
It was great to get away. Amazing how refreshing that is!
It was great to get away. Amazing how refreshing that is!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Stolen from Tami Brown...
Tami Brown had this posted as her facebook status tonight. I love it... so, I copied and pasted it here...
"Blessed are those that can give without remembering and receive without forgetting."
"Blessed are those that can give without remembering and receive without forgetting."
Audacious Hope...
This year for Advent, I am looking at the theme Audacious Hope. The scripture references will be from the prophet Isaiah.
Isaiah 9:2-7 this week and then Isaiah 11:1-9, 35:1-10, and finally 52:7-10. It is impossible to read those passages and not hear the hope of God bursting through the seams!
One of my facebook friends just posed the question about the difference between hope and optimisim. Optimism is about how we see things. The perspective with which we look. Hope is of God. God is the one who grants hope. And God's hope is audacious!
Spend some time reading Isaiah 9:2-7 this week and see if you don't feel, hear, see the audacious hope of God!
Isaiah 9:2-7 this week and then Isaiah 11:1-9, 35:1-10, and finally 52:7-10. It is impossible to read those passages and not hear the hope of God bursting through the seams!
One of my facebook friends just posed the question about the difference between hope and optimisim. Optimism is about how we see things. The perspective with which we look. Hope is of God. God is the one who grants hope. And God's hope is audacious!
Spend some time reading Isaiah 9:2-7 this week and see if you don't feel, hear, see the audacious hope of God!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Just got word....
I just got word that I have been selected to be part of Mark Batterson's newest book - Primal- Blog tour. They are giving out a free copy of his book to bloggers so that we can review it on our blog.
I did this for his second book - Wild Goose Chase.
I am a big fan of Mark's. Really appreciate his thoughts and writings. And I am looking forward to reading and reviewing this latest book of his.
Here is a quote from the book..."We have a tendency to complicate Christianity. Jesus simplified it: Love God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength. If we are to live out the essence of Christianity, we must commit to being great at this Great Commandment."
I've been saying this for a while now with the addition of Love Others!
I did this for his second book - Wild Goose Chase.
I am a big fan of Mark's. Really appreciate his thoughts and writings. And I am looking forward to reading and reviewing this latest book of his.
Here is a quote from the book..."We have a tendency to complicate Christianity. Jesus simplified it: Love God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength. If we are to live out the essence of Christianity, we must commit to being great at this Great Commandment."
I've been saying this for a while now with the addition of Love Others!
Friday, November 20, 2009
The challenge before us...
Out of today's Bible reading... "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same?" (Matthew 5:43-47)
Jesus makes it clear here that we are to do something that for most of us is challenging! And that is to love our enemies. To love those people who we don't like. It is easy to love those who like us! But that is not his call in our lives!
Jesus makes it clear here that we are to do something that for most of us is challenging! And that is to love our enemies. To love those people who we don't like. It is easy to love those who like us! But that is not his call in our lives!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Doing God's Work...
Ever wonder what God's will is for your life? Ever spend lots of time praying for God to reveal what he wants you to do?
Sometimes that approach can keep us from doing anything for the Lord!
We don't have to wait for God to reveal anything to us. In fact waiting keeps us from doing what God wants us to do! All we need to do is walk out our front door and look around... God will reveal needs that we can meet and ways that we can share his love with others. Listen to the people you come in contact with and take notice of what is happening in their lives and you will soon see ways you can be the hands and feet of Jesus.
I find that God reveals his desires for us as we live our lives out in the world... So get out there and listen, look, and then ACT!
Sometimes that approach can keep us from doing anything for the Lord!
We don't have to wait for God to reveal anything to us. In fact waiting keeps us from doing what God wants us to do! All we need to do is walk out our front door and look around... God will reveal needs that we can meet and ways that we can share his love with others. Listen to the people you come in contact with and take notice of what is happening in their lives and you will soon see ways you can be the hands and feet of Jesus.
I find that God reveals his desires for us as we live our lives out in the world... So get out there and listen, look, and then ACT!
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Pray withOUT ceasing... NEVER GIVE UP!
It's hard to do sometimes. And depending on the situation, it is easy to take the "it will never change" approach. But last night I learned again that it is best to NEVER GIVE UP when praying for someone!
I have a friend, who has been living for a few years with a really terrible marriage relationship and it only seemed to be getting worse. In my mind, it was beyond hope... headed down a dead-end street.
But I am happy to say that last night he reported to me that things "couldn't be better!" In their nearly 20 years of marriage, he feels that his marriage relationship is stronger and better than it has been ever! And when I asked him what happened... his answer was "Prayer!"
SO,pray withOUT ceasing... NEVER GIVE UP!
I have a friend, who has been living for a few years with a really terrible marriage relationship and it only seemed to be getting worse. In my mind, it was beyond hope... headed down a dead-end street.
But I am happy to say that last night he reported to me that things "couldn't be better!" In their nearly 20 years of marriage, he feels that his marriage relationship is stronger and better than it has been ever! And when I asked him what happened... his answer was "Prayer!"
SO,pray withOUT ceasing... NEVER GIVE UP!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Thought for the day...
Just read some promo material on Mark Batterson's new book, "Primal". And one thing he said sticks with me... "we can not afford to be GOOD at the Great Commandment. We must be GREAT at the Great Commandment."
It is our primary calling... to Love God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind AND to love our neighbor as ourself! When we are GREAT at that... the world will become a different place to live and work and play and enjoy!
It is our primary calling... to Love God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind AND to love our neighbor as ourself! When we are GREAT at that... the world will become a different place to live and work and play and enjoy!
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Some more thoughts on worship...
Worship reframes our problems and refocuses our lives!
I am thankful for opportunites to worship God alone and together with brothers and sisters in the faith. It truly does change my perspective on things and closes the gap between God and myself!
If you feel God is distant.... stop! Reflect on your life. Think of all the blessings you have and begin thanking God for them. Before long you will feel an incredible sense of connection with God and he will feel close by!
I am thankful for opportunites to worship God alone and together with brothers and sisters in the faith. It truly does change my perspective on things and closes the gap between God and myself!
If you feel God is distant.... stop! Reflect on your life. Think of all the blessings you have and begin thanking God for them. Before long you will feel an incredible sense of connection with God and he will feel close by!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Enter...
Working on Psalm 100 for the weekend. Traditional rendering is "Enter His gates with thanksgiving." Eugene Peterson translates that, "Thanksgiving is the password."
Now there is something to think about!
Now there is something to think about!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Indescribable!
I just love being outdoors this time of year! I especially love the Fall deer woods. For me it only rivals the spring turkey woods. So, yesterday, I spend some time outdoors in the beauty of the Fall woods looking for deer. I was about 25 feet in the air in a pine tree. I did manage to have 9 deer come by. As I sat there, I couldn't help but enjoy the beauty of God's creation and marvel at his handiwork.
This morning on my walk at the mall, the sermon I was listening to on my ipod ended before my walk, so, I turned on a Chris Tomlin song.... totally random... and it was called Indescribable. For me this song sums up my feelings when I am sitting in a tree in the fall... or in a meadow in the spring...
"From the highest of heights to the depths of the sea, creation's revealing Your majesty. From the colors of fall to the fragrance of spring, every creature unique in the song that is sings. All exclaiming: indescribable, uncontainable, You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name. You are amazing God. And all-powerful, untamable, awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim: You are amazing God!"
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Hospitality...
I am reading Fred Bernhard's new book, "Deep and Wide: Hospitality and the Faithful Church" that he wrote with Steve Clapp and Ed Bontrager. In it they define hospitality as follows: "Hospitality is the attitude and practice of providing the atmosphere and opportunities, however risky, in which strangers become friends, therby feeling accepted, included, and loved. The relationship thus opens the possibility for eventual communion among the host, the stranger, and God."
They also say that "Hospitality invloves recognizing the presence of Christ in family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and complete strangers. It means responding to others as we would respond to the presence of Christ in our midst."
Think about what a differente world we would live in if every christ follower extended hospitality to family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and complete strangers becasue Christ is present in all people!
They also say that "Hospitality invloves recognizing the presence of Christ in family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and complete strangers. It means responding to others as we would respond to the presence of Christ in our midst."
Think about what a differente world we would live in if every christ follower extended hospitality to family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and complete strangers becasue Christ is present in all people!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Your Challenges Can Be Great Opportunities!
God can use your challenges, struggles, difficulties in great ways.
We never know what we are going to face in life. But no matter what it is, I am confident of two things. One, we face it with God. And two, whatever it is can be used to help others. Whatever experiences we have can equip us for ministry with other people who are going through similar struggles. Our experiences give us some understanding and an awareness of what is happening.
I have been so grateful for the countless friends who have been on the road with Diabetes longer than I. They have offered encouragment and insight that has been helpful beyond measure!
So, my encouragement to all of us is not to let a challenge, struggle, difficulty, or diagnosis keep you from the opportunity for ministry!
We never know what we are going to face in life. But no matter what it is, I am confident of two things. One, we face it with God. And two, whatever it is can be used to help others. Whatever experiences we have can equip us for ministry with other people who are going through similar struggles. Our experiences give us some understanding and an awareness of what is happening.
I have been so grateful for the countless friends who have been on the road with Diabetes longer than I. They have offered encouragment and insight that has been helpful beyond measure!
So, my encouragement to all of us is not to let a challenge, struggle, difficulty, or diagnosis keep you from the opportunity for ministry!
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Friday, November 6, 2009
Whose Church is it?
"More of you, less of me. Because the more glory I get, the less Jesus gets." That is what Mother Teresa wrote often in her journals. One time a reporter asked her, "Is your work going to live on after you?" She quietly and respectfully dismissed the question, saying, "That is of no concern to me."
What she was saying is that this is God's work not hers. Same for us... the work we are doing is God's work not ours. Sometimes we are sloppy and refer to the church as "my church" or "our church", but it really is Jesus' church. And while I pray that the foundation we are laying will bear fruit for a long time, it is God's decision if CoJ will continue for 100 years or not. What I care most about is that we are raising up people who are actively in love with Jesus and actively sharing his love with others - making God's Kingdom a present reality in our lives, community and world!
What New Testament church still exists today? None! But we are here today because of the work they did. Thanks be to God!
What she was saying is that this is God's work not hers. Same for us... the work we are doing is God's work not ours. Sometimes we are sloppy and refer to the church as "my church" or "our church", but it really is Jesus' church. And while I pray that the foundation we are laying will bear fruit for a long time, it is God's decision if CoJ will continue for 100 years or not. What I care most about is that we are raising up people who are actively in love with Jesus and actively sharing his love with others - making God's Kingdom a present reality in our lives, community and world!
What New Testament church still exists today? None! But we are here today because of the work they did. Thanks be to God!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Living...
While I was in the hospital last week, I started reading Shane Claiborne's new book "Follow Me to Freedom: Leading and Following as an Ordianry Radical". In it he says this, "I am convinced that Jesus did not just come to prepare us to die. He came to teach us to live. The vision that Jesus invites us to follow is not just a vision for heaven... seriously now, how hard can it be to love our enemies in heaven? Jesus is teaching us a vision for how to live on earth, to care for others. Here and now is where and when we need to figure out how to love those who are against us. The Kingdom of God that Jesus spoke of wasn't just something we hope for when we die, but something we are to bring to earth as it is in heaven. It's not just about us going up, but about bringing God's Kingdom down."
I couldn't agree more! It matters how we live now. It matters how we treat one another now. It matters ... so who are you blessing today? Who are you showing love to? Who are you extending mercy and grace to?
I couldn't agree more! It matters how we live now. It matters how we treat one another now. It matters ... so who are you blessing today? Who are you showing love to? Who are you extending mercy and grace to?
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas....
Everyday, I walk 4 laps around the mall. And today, they have the Christmas decorations up in full force! I have been noticing that stores around town are begining early this year. And now the mall has joined in. The trees are up, ornaments hung, picture with santa place ready, and it is only the 4th of November.
This got me thinking... Conspiracy! Is it about Christmas or is it about making money! The stores are trying to imporve their bottom line by enticing shoppers earlier. And what is Christmas about anyway???
This year at Community of Joy, we will be looking at the theme Advent Conspiracy: Give Presence. And we will break that into 4 areas... Worship Fully, Spend Less, Give More, and Love All. Not sure what it will look like yet. But we will be exploring the conspiracy!
A great way to begin thinking in a new way about Christmas is to attend our Alternative Christmas Gift Market on Saturday from 9 a.m. - 12 noon at our ministry center.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Back in the Saddle, somewhat!
Trying to get back in the saddle and go for a ride! It is hard with increased doc visits and a daughter that had the flu and now a wife that has the flu! On top of that, yesterday and today, my vision is VERY blurry! Even the bifocals aren't working! Called the eye doc.
But the good news of the day is that my before breakfast number was 108 and my 2 hour later number was 98!!!!! That was after 45 minutes of walking at the Mall! Even so, it is a GREAT day and I am feeling better than I have for a long tim.
I am looking forward to getting back to blogging and all the other normal activities of life!
But the good news of the day is that my before breakfast number was 108 and my 2 hour later number was 98!!!!! That was after 45 minutes of walking at the Mall! Even so, it is a GREAT day and I am feeling better than I have for a long tim.
I am looking forward to getting back to blogging and all the other normal activities of life!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
One more post about me...then...
I said the other day, when I was diagnosed with Diabetes, that my life changed that day. Boy did it ever!
Now that the Diabetes is more under control, I feel SO MUCH better. It is amazing! I don't know how long I have been waking up in the morning only to complain of being tired... not anymore! I don't know how many times I would get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom... not anymore! I don't know how many days I would have to take a short power nap... not any more! I don't know how many days I would just feel BLAH... not anymore! I don't know how many days I would have aches and pains ... not anymore!
I am now realizing that I had diabetes for a long while! And I would encourage everyone to get regular physicals, especially if you have any of the above symptoms.
Now that the Diabetes is more under control, I feel SO MUCH better. It is amazing! I don't know how long I have been waking up in the morning only to complain of being tired... not anymore! I don't know how many times I would get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom... not anymore! I don't know how many days I would have to take a short power nap... not any more! I don't know how many days I would just feel BLAH... not anymore! I don't know how many days I would have aches and pains ... not anymore!
I am now realizing that I had diabetes for a long while! And I would encourage everyone to get regular physicals, especially if you have any of the above symptoms.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Home Sweet Home!
Do glad to be out of the hospital! Lots of sickness going around! Got a room mate today and was not happy about it... lots of drama and he was very sick! I was so happy when the doc came in to say they were springing me! They will increase my oral meds and I will continue to monitor my levels and then visit them next week!
Said I could return to normal activity... so, since Sharon didn't want me to go hunting with my friend, I mowed grass. Walked behind the mower for 25 minutes and my sugar levesl went from 197 before to 136 after! WOW!
Learned lots in the hospital and will share that later. Started two new books and lots of other life experiences to share!
Thanks to all who prayed, called, texted, facebooked, stopped by and showed support. It was OVERWHELMING!
Not sure what I will do about vacation, leaning toward taking this week as sick leave and next as vacation but preaching on the 7 and 8th! We will see. Don't really want to miss the hunting opps this time of year! That was my biggest struggle with being in the hospital. But so glad to have my sugar levels lowered. I feel so much better! WOW! I guess I have been brewing this for a while! I can see signs in the past! If you haven't... get a yearly physical. I missed mine this year and who knows what I would have found if I had not missed it!
Said I could return to normal activity... so, since Sharon didn't want me to go hunting with my friend, I mowed grass. Walked behind the mower for 25 minutes and my sugar levesl went from 197 before to 136 after! WOW!
Learned lots in the hospital and will share that later. Started two new books and lots of other life experiences to share!
Thanks to all who prayed, called, texted, facebooked, stopped by and showed support. It was OVERWHELMING!
Not sure what I will do about vacation, leaning toward taking this week as sick leave and next as vacation but preaching on the 7 and 8th! We will see. Don't really want to miss the hunting opps this time of year! That was my biggest struggle with being in the hospital. But so glad to have my sugar levels lowered. I feel so much better! WOW! I guess I have been brewing this for a while! I can see signs in the past! If you haven't... get a yearly physical. I missed mine this year and who knows what I would have found if I had not missed it!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
The Doc Orders a Hospital Vacation....
Levels are still over 550. So, I get to spend some time in RR in the Hospital! The only good thing about that is I am still alive and I won't be tempted to go hunting!
The Day My Life Changes....
All of us have days in our lives that we could say... today, my life changes. Well, today is one more of those days for me!
I can now explain my TIREDNESS! It isn't that I need a vacation, because that is what I am on now! It isn't that I am frustrated with my life or job or family. It isn't that I am frustrated with my hunting season's results... bagged a deer last night with my bow.
It is DIABETES! Yep, I can hardly believe it, myself! In fact, I can't remember much the doc said after she told me what I had. It does explain my muscle cramping and lots of other symptoms too! My suguar level was a whopping 518! Normal is 0 - 100. She told me NO HUNTING! NO sugar, candy, sweets of any kind, fruits, pasta, bread, splits (and I just got three bags of them!) And I was expecting a lemon merrangue pie from my wife this week too! And she said I was inches from being in the hospital! She gave me an immediate shot of insulin and a prescription for an immediate oral med... and then to take my blood levels and call her. I just did that and they were even higher... the first one said HI and the second was 570. She told me to take to pills and call her with new readings at 2:30. I have a feeling I am headed to the hospital to spend some of my vacation there. I pray it is not so!
And if I don't, I will be going to the lab for blood work in the a.m. and to see the doc on Thursday and so.... today is the day my life changes!
I can now explain my TIREDNESS! It isn't that I need a vacation, because that is what I am on now! It isn't that I am frustrated with my life or job or family. It isn't that I am frustrated with my hunting season's results... bagged a deer last night with my bow.
It is DIABETES! Yep, I can hardly believe it, myself! In fact, I can't remember much the doc said after she told me what I had. It does explain my muscle cramping and lots of other symptoms too! My suguar level was a whopping 518! Normal is 0 - 100. She told me NO HUNTING! NO sugar, candy, sweets of any kind, fruits, pasta, bread, splits (and I just got three bags of them!) And I was expecting a lemon merrangue pie from my wife this week too! And she said I was inches from being in the hospital! She gave me an immediate shot of insulin and a prescription for an immediate oral med... and then to take my blood levels and call her. I just did that and they were even higher... the first one said HI and the second was 570. She told me to take to pills and call her with new readings at 2:30. I have a feeling I am headed to the hospital to spend some of my vacation there. I pray it is not so!
And if I don't, I will be going to the lab for blood work in the a.m. and to see the doc on Thursday and so.... today is the day my life changes!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Surprises, Celebrations and Analytical Minds!
What a special group of people Community of Joy Church of the Brethren is!!!!
Today they attempted to surprise me (in some ways they did and others I had some clues!) to celebrate the completion of 10 wonderful years of ministry here for Sharon and I! They went to great lengths to plan a special day! First was the guest preacher, John Layman, a blast from the past! What a great message and so great to see John and Peg! Then Tracey Townsend stepped up to lead worship and for the first time, Sharon and I sat near the back of the sanctuary in two worship gatherings.
Then there was the many guests... my parents, niece, nephew, great aunt, and several other significant people in our personal and congregational lives.
Then there was the delicious dinner at Hebron Fire Hall! What a great place to eat such a scrumptious meal and to reminisce about the past. This was topped off by two cakes that made the number 10!
I realized again today how important it is for us to tell stories and to mark places where we have been part of what God is doing in and through us! It is also good for us to be reminded of ALL the places God provides, guides, and works in our lives! In fact today's celebration was all about God!
So incredible it is to be on the adventurous journey with God and these awesome people at Community of Joy! We are so spoiled, we could never go anywhere else!
The day was topped off when a new and special friend came up to give us a hug and with a tear in her eye, say... "I'll be here to help you celebrate 20 years!" Can't wait to see what God has in store for the next ten years! It will be an adventure for sure!
One regret I have for the day is that I didn't think about soon enough to change into a suit to go to the reception! That would have been so much fun! And I have a new one too!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Tired???
Lately I have been feeling really tired. Struggling to get myself motivated and going in the directions that I need to go! So happy that I have a vacation coming up to hunt as that always fills me up!
Here is a great quote that I found today from Oswald Chambers, "It is impossible to get exhausted in work for God. We get exhausted because we try to do God's work in our own way."
Here is a great quote that I found today from Oswald Chambers, "It is impossible to get exhausted in work for God. We get exhausted because we try to do God's work in our own way."
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Proud Papa!
One of the joys of being a parent is seeing your children develop and become who God created them to be! Found this video of Caroline. She is having an awesome senior year so far and has been interviewed alot already! She has so enjoyed the band and did a great job on Sunday playing in the pit!
Friday, October 16, 2009
How Committed Are You?
Today's Bible Reading includes Acts 5. At the end of the chapter, Peter and the other disciples of Jesus were told NOT to teach in the name of Jesus anymore and they were flogged (beaten). Yet inspite of the harsh warnings and beatings, it says in verse 42 "And everyday in the temple and at home, they did not cease to teach and proclaim Jesus as Messiah."
Now that is commitment to the cause of Jesus for sure!
Would I be that committed? I think I would, but I won't really know until I faced such a situation.
None-the-less, this account does make me think about my commitment to Christ. Am I willing to suffer for him, in order that I might share his love with others? Am I willing to go risk my life so that others may know about and ultimately know Jesus? Will I really follow Jesus wherever he leads me?
If I am not willing or will not follow him wherever, then I guess I am not really commited to him, am I?
Thankfully, we live in a country where we are free to share his love! But even if we weren't free, I would still be willing to risk it all for the sake of Jesus! Afterall he did that for me!
Now that is commitment to the cause of Jesus for sure!
Would I be that committed? I think I would, but I won't really know until I faced such a situation.
None-the-less, this account does make me think about my commitment to Christ. Am I willing to suffer for him, in order that I might share his love with others? Am I willing to go risk my life so that others may know about and ultimately know Jesus? Will I really follow Jesus wherever he leads me?
If I am not willing or will not follow him wherever, then I guess I am not really commited to him, am I?
Thankfully, we live in a country where we are free to share his love! But even if we weren't free, I would still be willing to risk it all for the sake of Jesus! Afterall he did that for me!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
What Image for the Church?
Over the weekend, I was at a Pastor's Gathering before District Conference and one of the leaders, Doug Sider, shared some interesting insights.
He was asking what image best suits our church.
1. Museum - a place to look at past things and celebrate them.
2. School - a place to learn.
3. Hospital - a place to heal.
4. Fire station - a place where everything they do is focused on serving the community.
Not that choices 1-3 are bad. Part of being the church involves looking at the past, learning, and healing. But choice 4 is a very important image. Firefighters train to go out into the community to serve the community. Everything they do is about going out! When they raise funds, it is to better serve the community by purchasing new equipment, etc. When they train, it is to better serve the community.
What if the church were like a fire station? And everything we did was for the benefit of the community and world. What if everything we did was to go out?
After all, the very last thing Jesus said to his disciples and us was... Go therefore...
He was asking what image best suits our church.
1. Museum - a place to look at past things and celebrate them.
2. School - a place to learn.
3. Hospital - a place to heal.
4. Fire station - a place where everything they do is focused on serving the community.
Not that choices 1-3 are bad. Part of being the church involves looking at the past, learning, and healing. But choice 4 is a very important image. Firefighters train to go out into the community to serve the community. Everything they do is about going out! When they raise funds, it is to better serve the community by purchasing new equipment, etc. When they train, it is to better serve the community.
What if the church were like a fire station? And everything we did was for the benefit of the community and world. What if everything we did was to go out?
After all, the very last thing Jesus said to his disciples and us was... Go therefore...
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
The Importance of Coffee....
I have long been a proponent of having refreshments before and after worship.
Recently, I read an article in Rev Magazine by D. Michael Lindsay entitled "Why Coffee Hour Can Save Your Church." In it her says some interesting things. "...researchers reveal that regular, informal socializing before and after worship services plays a significant role in nurturing Christian community. In a recently released study, Chris Ellison, Neal Krause, Bryan Shepherd, and Mark Chaves found that these interactions created perceptions among churchgoers that they are part of a supportive community, on that convinces people that they can count on others for help when troubles arise."
"Also having a consistent time for informal fellowship allows newcomers to become integrated into the church gradually, yet steadily."
"A church that devotes time every week to unstructured fellowship invariably communicates that it values community. Visitors pick up on the message that this is a church that wants people to get to know one another."
Indeed Community of Joy wants to be a place where relationships matter! And having a coffee time before and after worship is part of setting the stage for that to happen.
Recently, I read an article in Rev Magazine by D. Michael Lindsay entitled "Why Coffee Hour Can Save Your Church." In it her says some interesting things. "...researchers reveal that regular, informal socializing before and after worship services plays a significant role in nurturing Christian community. In a recently released study, Chris Ellison, Neal Krause, Bryan Shepherd, and Mark Chaves found that these interactions created perceptions among churchgoers that they are part of a supportive community, on that convinces people that they can count on others for help when troubles arise."
"Also having a consistent time for informal fellowship allows newcomers to become integrated into the church gradually, yet steadily."
"A church that devotes time every week to unstructured fellowship invariably communicates that it values community. Visitors pick up on the message that this is a church that wants people to get to know one another."
Indeed Community of Joy wants to be a place where relationships matter! And having a coffee time before and after worship is part of setting the stage for that to happen.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Every Preacher Loves It When....
Every preacher loves it when he or she sees what he or she preaches about come to life. Yesterday, I encouraged us to use the gifts God has given us to impact the lives of others. Told a story about 76 year old Gertie and her significant youth ministry until she was 86. And Johnny the bagger who was a downs syndrome young man but put a thought for the day in the last bag he packed for each customer.
Today, I received an email from a teacher at Wi-Middle with a copy of the email that one of Community of Joy's youth sent out to teachers, staff, and students... so AWESOME!
Teachers and Staff Members of Wicomico Middle School,
Today I've decided that everday I'm going send out a positive?thought to everyone. I've taken the time to?write down every?e-mail address of each person who works at our school so that maybe I could start your day a little brighter.
I'll start with Monday's positive thought:
Be good to yourself by seeing and connecting with the goodness in life. Look on the bright side, and make it brighter.
Nothing is gained by feeling sorry for yourself. Nothing is gained by spreading misery or despair.
Sure, life has its troubles. Yet the great thing is, you don't have to let any of those troubles get to you.
Give your energy and awareness to the best possibilities of the moment. You can make something good happen today, so by all means do it. Offer a healthy dose of joy to your situation. Feeling positive will take you much further than any alternative. Be the brightest source of goodness in your corner of the world. Choose to feel great and truly you'll do great things.
This shall be a regular thing. Have a blessed day,
Lena Habig--- Eighth grade student at Wicomico Middle
Things like this bring tears to my eyes! Way to go Lena!
Today, I received an email from a teacher at Wi-Middle with a copy of the email that one of Community of Joy's youth sent out to teachers, staff, and students... so AWESOME!
Teachers and Staff Members of Wicomico Middle School,
Today I've decided that everday I'm going send out a positive?thought to everyone. I've taken the time to?write down every?e-mail address of each person who works at our school so that maybe I could start your day a little brighter.
I'll start with Monday's positive thought:
Be good to yourself by seeing and connecting with the goodness in life. Look on the bright side, and make it brighter.
Nothing is gained by feeling sorry for yourself. Nothing is gained by spreading misery or despair.
Sure, life has its troubles. Yet the great thing is, you don't have to let any of those troubles get to you.
Give your energy and awareness to the best possibilities of the moment. You can make something good happen today, so by all means do it. Offer a healthy dose of joy to your situation. Feeling positive will take you much further than any alternative. Be the brightest source of goodness in your corner of the world. Choose to feel great and truly you'll do great things.
This shall be a regular thing. Have a blessed day,
Lena Habig--- Eighth grade student at Wicomico Middle
Things like this bring tears to my eyes! Way to go Lena!
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Friday, October 9, 2009
I AGREE!
Received a nice letter after the Neighborhood Pork Roast and wanted to share parts of it... "Dear Martin and Sharon, Yesterday, leaving the CoJ Pork Roast I was struck again by what a wonderful congregation Community of Joy is. I just had to write to express my appreciation and thanks for a wonderful event. You two have done a great job pastoring and shepherding this group of Godly individuals. Congrats on your ten years at CoJ! It is clear to me that you are serving the Lord and CoJ. I pray that God continues to bless your ministry!
CoJ has always had a heart for serving like Jesus. You should all be proud of how evident that service was yesterday. I felts so welcomed by everyone.... The food, as always was delicious and plentiful. THANK YOU again for such a good time. TImes like yesterday of sharing food and fellowship and fun are gifts from God. You are so clearly serving as God intended us to - I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed yesterday and to commend and encourage you for all you do the the Lord and CoJ. God Bless! "
I couldn't agree more! What an awesome group of Jesus Loving, Jesus Serving people we have at CoJ! Guess we really are living our mission... to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the community and world!
CoJ has always had a heart for serving like Jesus. You should all be proud of how evident that service was yesterday. I felts so welcomed by everyone.... The food, as always was delicious and plentiful. THANK YOU again for such a good time. TImes like yesterday of sharing food and fellowship and fun are gifts from God. You are so clearly serving as God intended us to - I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed yesterday and to commend and encourage you for all you do the the Lord and CoJ. God Bless! "
I couldn't agree more! What an awesome group of Jesus Loving, Jesus Serving people we have at CoJ! Guess we really are living our mission... to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the community and world!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Focused on Mission....
Last night at Passages (Bible Study) we looked at Matthew's account of Jesus' encounter in the temple and with the religious leaders when he turned the tables and ran out the moneychangers. In the midst of this chaotic clash Jesus is having with the religious tradition and ritual of the day, is this line.. (v 14) "The blind and the lame came to him in the temple, and he cured them."
Jesus' mission (found in Luke 4:18) is to 'bring good news to the poor, ... to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed free, and to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." In the midst of this chaotic time, Jesus remains focussed on his mission. And his mission is more important than the religious ritual and tradition of that day!
Same thing is true today! Yesterday, I attended a meeting of the churches in Salisbury that will host the cold weather emergency shelter for homeless men. I have been associated with this group for many years and Community of Joy has hosted men two years in a row and this will be our third year. The Dept. of Social Services person from the county was there and reported that they are seeing a marked increase in folks seeking assistance. Usually they see 100 people a month, they are currently averaging 400 people a month! Shortly after that sobbering report, a sister from a liturgical church complained that their time to host the shelter always falls in lent and it affects their ability to do their lenten programs. It was then pointed out that the shelter is a 12 week program and 6 of those weeks are lent! But still she was determined to change her weeks so that they could do their lenten things. Several of us around the circle voiced our thoughts that hosting the shelter feels like what we should be doing in lent. (kind of a modern re-enactment of the Matthew 21 account of Jesus in the temple!)
CoJ is only hosting one week this year at our site, but I am exploring an option to be part of a week using another site. There are three weeks still open and in need of hosts. The mission of Jesus is more than words or religious ritual or tradition, it is a call to each of us to care about loving others with God's love. It is a way of life!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
What Length?
What length are you willing to go to inorder to get closer to Jesus? You must atleast take a step in his direction or he will pass by.
This morning I was reading my Daily Bible Reading and part of it was from Luke 19 - the story of Zacchaeus and the lengths he went to just to get a glimpse of Jesus. He climbed a tree, because he was short and knew that it was the only way he would get a glimpse. That one step got him an audience with Jesus! That one step, changed his life forever.
Getting closer to Jesus involve you and me taking a step in his direction! As Max Lucado says, if there are 1000 steps between you and Jesus, if you take the first one, he will take the rest.
I went through a period recenlty where I had fallen off the wagon of daily Bible Reading and it didn't take long for me to realize that my relational connection with Jesus was suffering. So, I took a step.
I decided to set my alarm at 5:15 again (I had been getting up at 5:45 since school started) so that I had half an hour first thing in the morning to get closer to Jesus through prayer and daily Bible reading. And it is amazing the difference that makes in my life!
If you are feeling distant from God, just take one step closer toward him and it will make all the difference in your life!
This morning I was reading my Daily Bible Reading and part of it was from Luke 19 - the story of Zacchaeus and the lengths he went to just to get a glimpse of Jesus. He climbed a tree, because he was short and knew that it was the only way he would get a glimpse. That one step got him an audience with Jesus! That one step, changed his life forever.
Getting closer to Jesus involve you and me taking a step in his direction! As Max Lucado says, if there are 1000 steps between you and Jesus, if you take the first one, he will take the rest.
I went through a period recenlty where I had fallen off the wagon of daily Bible Reading and it didn't take long for me to realize that my relational connection with Jesus was suffering. So, I took a step.
I decided to set my alarm at 5:15 again (I had been getting up at 5:45 since school started) so that I had half an hour first thing in the morning to get closer to Jesus through prayer and daily Bible reading. And it is amazing the difference that makes in my life!
If you are feeling distant from God, just take one step closer toward him and it will make all the difference in your life!
Monday, October 5, 2009
Sunday, October 4, 2009
An Awesome Day....
Today was an Awesome day at Community of Joy! We had our 3rd annual pork roast and fun fest. Had beautiful weather, great serving hearts and hands, a decent crowd and the best pulled pork around! So much positive happened today! Thanks to ALL who helped pull it off! It would not be possible to do without such awesome cooperation and serving hearts and hands! It really is becoming a signature event that CoJ uses to share God's love with our neighbors through hospitality!
As I was reviewing status updates tonight from my Church of the Brethren Pastor friends who were all celebrating Love Feast today on this World Wide Communion Sunday, a thought struck me. That what we did today really captured the essence of Love Feast and included a whole lot more people. We had an awesome meal, we served one another and shared the love of God in a tangible way.
For those wondering, we will do Love Feast next week!
And the final icing on the cake of today was the begining of mine and Sharon's second decade of service as Pastor at Community of Joy! It has been an increidble and adventerous first decade... I can't wait to see what the next decade holds. The most important fact of the whole deal has been that it is ALL GOD! We have sought him, listened to him, followed him, loved him, shared him and most of all sought to honor him.
Will post pics tomorrow when I am not as tired!
As I was reviewing status updates tonight from my Church of the Brethren Pastor friends who were all celebrating Love Feast today on this World Wide Communion Sunday, a thought struck me. That what we did today really captured the essence of Love Feast and included a whole lot more people. We had an awesome meal, we served one another and shared the love of God in a tangible way.
For those wondering, we will do Love Feast next week!
And the final icing on the cake of today was the begining of mine and Sharon's second decade of service as Pastor at Community of Joy! It has been an increidble and adventerous first decade... I can't wait to see what the next decade holds. The most important fact of the whole deal has been that it is ALL GOD! We have sought him, listened to him, followed him, loved him, shared him and most of all sought to honor him.
Will post pics tomorrow when I am not as tired!
Friday, October 2, 2009
Tattooed!
Marked my "new to me" truck today as mine! Thanks to Roger and Claudia Jones of Jones Signs!
Freedom....
Enjoyed initiating my truck last night at Assateague Island. This is one of the upsides of the accident. After years of regretting not having a 4 wheel drive truck, I took the plunge and last night was one of the reasons why! A friend and I spent the afternoon exploring the off road territory of AI. It definitely opens lots more hunting opportunities for me and the chance to get away from other people. I enjoyed it immensely.
Here are some pics...
Thursday, October 1, 2009
The Importance of Roots...
When you look at a plant or tree, you don't do much thinking about the roots! But the roots are so important to what you are looking at! In fact, the roots are so vital, that without healthy roots, you don't have a healthy plant!
Yet roots are taken for granted, forgotten and often ignored! They lie beneath the ground and thus no one thinks about them. However, roots are what feed the plant, they stabilize the plant and they determine how productive the plant will be.
Jesus told a parable about a guy who told the gardener to cut down a fig tree after it didn't produce fruit for 3 years. The gardener asked to have another year and promised to cultivate the roots. In so doing, the next year the tree produced fruit.
If you want to produce fruit in your life, you must cultivate your roots! Roots in our lives are that which we can not see, but stabilizes and feed us. I have discovered that for me, one of the necessary elements to cultivating roots is regular Daily Bible Reading. Nothing strengthens my connection to God more!
I have just come through a period where I had gotten lazy about the DBR and was only reading the Bible sporadically each week. And I was seeing evidence of this neglect in my life. So, I made a conscious decision to set the alarm earlier and make time for it each day. Also the resuming of my Life Transformation Group and the accountability it holds in my life helps to keep me on track with this practice!
I highly recommend that every person who is serious about following Jesus figure out a way to cultivate their roots.
Yet roots are taken for granted, forgotten and often ignored! They lie beneath the ground and thus no one thinks about them. However, roots are what feed the plant, they stabilize the plant and they determine how productive the plant will be.
Jesus told a parable about a guy who told the gardener to cut down a fig tree after it didn't produce fruit for 3 years. The gardener asked to have another year and promised to cultivate the roots. In so doing, the next year the tree produced fruit.
If you want to produce fruit in your life, you must cultivate your roots! Roots in our lives are that which we can not see, but stabilizes and feed us. I have discovered that for me, one of the necessary elements to cultivating roots is regular Daily Bible Reading. Nothing strengthens my connection to God more!
I have just come through a period where I had gotten lazy about the DBR and was only reading the Bible sporadically each week. And I was seeing evidence of this neglect in my life. So, I made a conscious decision to set the alarm earlier and make time for it each day. Also the resuming of my Life Transformation Group and the accountability it holds in my life helps to keep me on track with this practice!
I highly recommend that every person who is serious about following Jesus figure out a way to cultivate their roots.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks be to God! South Blvd is NOW OPEN! A full 5 weeks later than expected!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
What a Great Night....
We stumbled onto a great thing last night! It is so wonderful that we couldn't pull off going out on Saturday to invite our neighbors to the Pork Roast. Last night we learned that the "at home" rate is much higher during the evening hours. We encountered a lot more of our neighbors by going on a week night.
The five teams all had very positive encounters! Lots of welcoming people. Many who were surprised to hear that it was totally free and some who were genuinely interested in coming.
My prayer is that our Pork Roast and Fun Fest will be an absolute blessing to all who come!
Thanks to all who helped last night!
The five teams all had very positive encounters! Lots of welcoming people. Many who were surprised to hear that it was totally free and some who were genuinely interested in coming.
My prayer is that our Pork Roast and Fun Fest will be an absolute blessing to all who come!
Thanks to all who helped last night!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Label or Lifestyle?
In Luke 6:46,Jesus asks a very important and telling question: "Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord' and do not do what I tell you?"
His point is that IF Jesus is your Lord (leader) then you would do what he tells you to do! And if you don't do what he tells you to do, then the question is: how can Jesus be your Lord (leader)? If you don't do what Jesus tells you to do, then you are simply wearing a label, not living the lifestyle. Jesus calls you and me to live a lifestyle. Anybody can wear a label! But only those who truly love Jesus and want to follow him, will do what he says!
Our actions will speak louder than our words! Not that we don't need our words or that it's not important for our words to match our actions... but if we are truly in love with Jesus and follow him, then we will do what he tells us to do!
So, are you wearing the label or living the lifestyle?
His point is that IF Jesus is your Lord (leader) then you would do what he tells you to do! And if you don't do what he tells you to do, then the question is: how can Jesus be your Lord (leader)? If you don't do what Jesus tells you to do, then you are simply wearing a label, not living the lifestyle. Jesus calls you and me to live a lifestyle. Anybody can wear a label! But only those who truly love Jesus and want to follow him, will do what he says!
Our actions will speak louder than our words! Not that we don't need our words or that it's not important for our words to match our actions... but if we are truly in love with Jesus and follow him, then we will do what he tells us to do!
So, are you wearing the label or living the lifestyle?
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Thoughts on Forgiveness
Forgiveness is so important to experience and to extend in our lives. Here are some thoughts on Forgiveness.
"Ultimately, forgiveness is a gift of grace rather than an act of will. I have to be willing to forgive, but I cannot will myself to forgive. I can forgive with my mind, but forgiveness is finally a matter of the heart. And forgiveness of the heart comes from God, not from me." Madeleine L'Engle
"To be a Christian means to forgive the inexcusable, because God has forgiven the inexcusable in you." C.S. Lewis
"He who cannot forgive another breaks the bridge over which he must pass himself." George Herbert
"When we genuinely forgive, we set a prisioner free and then we discover that the prisioner we set free was us." Phillip Yancey
"Ultimately, forgiveness is a gift of grace rather than an act of will. I have to be willing to forgive, but I cannot will myself to forgive. I can forgive with my mind, but forgiveness is finally a matter of the heart. And forgiveness of the heart comes from God, not from me." Madeleine L'Engle
"To be a Christian means to forgive the inexcusable, because God has forgiven the inexcusable in you." C.S. Lewis
"He who cannot forgive another breaks the bridge over which he must pass himself." George Herbert
"When we genuinely forgive, we set a prisioner free and then we discover that the prisioner we set free was us." Phillip Yancey
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
A Powerful Thought...
Forgiveness is an incredible power that we SHARE with God. Just like when we give, we are most like God... so too, when we forgive, we are most like God. For God is giving and forgiving!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
It's all GOD!
So often these days, you hear some one say "it is all good!" But these days, I am saying it is all GOD!
In reflecting over the last 10 years serving as Pastor of Community of Joy, I am filled with excitement and satisfaction... It is all GOD!
In my daily Bible reading, I came accross these words penned long ago by the Psalm writer. They could have been penned by me... they sum up well how I feel about our journey together at Community of Joy since Oct. 3, 1999.
"Blessed be the Lord, for he has heard the sound of my pleadings. The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts' so I am helped, and my heart exults, and with my songs, I give thanks to him. The Lord is the strength of his people; he is the saving refuge of his anointed. O save your people and bless your heritage; be their shepherd and carry them forver." Psalm 28:6-9
In reflecting over the last 10 years serving as Pastor of Community of Joy, I am filled with excitement and satisfaction... It is all GOD!
In my daily Bible reading, I came accross these words penned long ago by the Psalm writer. They could have been penned by me... they sum up well how I feel about our journey together at Community of Joy since Oct. 3, 1999.
"Blessed be the Lord, for he has heard the sound of my pleadings. The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts' so I am helped, and my heart exults, and with my songs, I give thanks to him. The Lord is the strength of his people; he is the saving refuge of his anointed. O save your people and bless your heritage; be their shepherd and carry them forver." Psalm 28:6-9
Monday, September 21, 2009
Invitations are Important...
Over the years, we have found that personal invitations work best.
So, each year for our annual Pork Roast and Fun Fest, we choose part of our neighborhood to personally invite to join us. However, this year, we are struggling to get enough help to do this task. So, we are changing the date from Saturday to Monday September 28 @ 6 p.m.
We will also use our sign out front, but that doesn't work too well right now due to decreased traffic since the road is closed at one end.
Hope to get lots of help on the 28th!
So, each year for our annual Pork Roast and Fun Fest, we choose part of our neighborhood to personally invite to join us. However, this year, we are struggling to get enough help to do this task. So, we are changing the date from Saturday to Monday September 28 @ 6 p.m.
We will also use our sign out front, but that doesn't work too well right now due to decreased traffic since the road is closed at one end.
Hope to get lots of help on the 28th!
Friday, September 18, 2009
YEAH, the passing of another chapter in the saga!
Yesterday's post about Erie needs to be qualified somewhat... they finally came through with a number and it was a GREAT number. So, while it took a long time to get the number, they were very fair in terms of what they offered me for my truck! In fact, when you do the calculations, I drove my truck for 4.5 years and 50,000 miles for 3,500 plus maintenance. Not bad!
This was a hard thing for me, but thankfully I was able to not get too anxious and wait. I kept praying that God would guide the process and that the number would be fair as I was out of debt on the truck and didn't want to incur any new debt in the transaction. So, I tried hard to sit back and trust that God had it all in control... and I must say, PRAISE GOD for his provision!
Not only that, but, I got the number I was looking for on my new truck as well! And I am told that this is unheard of! So, once again, in this saga, I am Praising God and oh what a relief it is!
This was a hard thing for me, but thankfully I was able to not get too anxious and wait. I kept praying that God would guide the process and that the number would be fair as I was out of debt on the truck and didn't want to incur any new debt in the transaction. So, I tried hard to sit back and trust that God had it all in control... and I must say, PRAISE GOD for his provision!
Not only that, but, I got the number I was looking for on my new truck as well! And I am told that this is unheard of! So, once again, in this saga, I am Praising God and oh what a relief it is!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Reality or Just Words???
I am about to pull my hair out in dealing with the Erie Insurance Company. I still don't have a number for my truck. I know it is totaled, but no number yet. The accident was almost 2 weeks ago. Everytime I call them, you get a welcoming recording that says that they are all about great customer service. But my experience says that those are just words...NOT reality!
At Community of Joy, our sign, mission, and core values lift say that we want to be all about relationships that matter. But unless we work at making relationships matter, those words will just be words not reality. I don't want them to just be words... I want Community of Joy to be known for being a place where relationships matter. But it takes all of us reaching out beyond our circles to great, welcome, get to know, and serve those we don't know or don't know well as well as those we already know.
It delights me to hear from one young adult who was with us for the summer tell me what a GREAT experience she has had among us. How she felt so welcomed and valued and loved. And it delights me to hear anohter young adult who was away for the summer say that he feels so welcomed by us and so enjoys the ways we reach out to show love.
So, keep it up! Let's truly be a place where relationships matter! Really!
At Community of Joy, our sign, mission, and core values lift say that we want to be all about relationships that matter. But unless we work at making relationships matter, those words will just be words not reality. I don't want them to just be words... I want Community of Joy to be known for being a place where relationships matter. But it takes all of us reaching out beyond our circles to great, welcome, get to know, and serve those we don't know or don't know well as well as those we already know.
It delights me to hear from one young adult who was with us for the summer tell me what a GREAT experience she has had among us. How she felt so welcomed and valued and loved. And it delights me to hear anohter young adult who was away for the summer say that he feels so welcomed by us and so enjoys the ways we reach out to show love.
So, keep it up! Let's truly be a place where relationships matter! Really!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
From What Day Off to What a Day Off!
I confess, that I have been very lax about taking a day off lately! And I confess that my life is so intertwined with my work that it is hard to separate the two... often you can't. But with the addition of the Saturday night 5:35, I have discovered that I need to be religious about a day off! It is VITAL.
So yesterday, I went from "What day off?" to WHAT A DAY OFF!!!!!
Spent the day with my friend and fellow church member, Martin Hansen doing something that we both love to do... bowhunt! It was an AWESOME day! I got up at 3 a.m. and met Martin at 4 was in the tree by 6 and stayed until 11. Didn't see a thing (oh, did see one fox squirrel) BUT I enjoyed the time of silence, prayer, reflection and just appreciating God's beautiful creation. At 11 I climbed down and talked to Martin about his hunt, then we moved a ladder stand and looked around. Saw a few young sikas near the lodge, got lunch, tried to do some work on trails - but were thwarted! Then took a long ride in an argo out to the edge of the river and enjoyed sitting and listening, praying and reflecting, and waiting for deer to come from 4-7:30. I did hear some dear walking in the water, but didn't see them. Did see one at dark, but only was a dark blob running through the water. Heard 5 stags bugle and watched several woodducks flying and swimming. Got home last night at 10 for supper and a shower and then bed!
I so enjoy getting out in the woods! What a GREAT DAY OFF!
Monday, September 14, 2009
So Excited!
Just got off the phone from talking with my friend, Ryan who launched a new church plant yesterday! He reports a GREAT opening day with lots of new connections! If you know of anyone in the Lancaster PA area who is looking for a place to connect and serve, tell them to check out www.veritaspa.org.
If you have some extra money that you would like to employ in a great way for the kingdom of God... send it to Atlantic Northeast Distrct (Church of the Brethren) 500 east Cedar St. Elizabethtown, PA 17022 and mark the check Veritas Launch.
A cool story that Ryan shared with me... his dad is not a Christ follower at all and was there for the launch and afterward told Ryan that if he were younger, the very thing that he experienced in worship would appeal to him. That is an awesome comment of affirmation that says Ryan is doing what he is seeking to do... connect with a generation that is not connected to a church expression. So excited!
And inviting you to pray with me this week for Ryan and this launch!
Weekend Numbers...
Let me begin by saying that what we do at Community of Joy is not about numbers at all... except that it is about numbers of people who experience God's transformation in their lives and numbers of people who become the hands and feet of Jesus in the world so that others can experience God's transformation in their lives!
With that said, sometimes you gotta look at numbers to measure things. We have recently launched a third worship gathering. It is Saturday @ 5:35 p.m. This weekend our attendance was up 21% as a result! Normal statistics say that you can expect a 15% increase. I am excited about what is happening and know that this is a first step toward seeing transformed lives and communities.
Thanks be to God!
With that said, sometimes you gotta look at numbers to measure things. We have recently launched a third worship gathering. It is Saturday @ 5:35 p.m. This weekend our attendance was up 21% as a result! Normal statistics say that you can expect a 15% increase. I am excited about what is happening and know that this is a first step toward seeing transformed lives and communities.
Thanks be to God!
Friday, September 11, 2009
This weekend...
This weekend at all three of our worship gatherings, we will look at the topic "Along the way: Interruptions!" Who among us doesn't have interruptions in our day and in our lives? You know, that phone call, knock on the door, the doctors report, the injury, accident... all these and more are interruptions to the things we have planned in life. But they are also part of life. The trick is figuring out how to keep from getting frustrated by the interruptions and find God in the midst of them. That's what we will talk about Saturday @ 5:35 and Sunday @ 9 and 10:30.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Transported back in time...
Last night, I walked into the Easton High School Stadium after 25 or 26 years! Still looked the same. What was different was that I was now rooting against Easton and for Wi Hi! You see, Emma's Wi Hi Girls Soccer team played Easton last night!
It was really weird walking to the stadium by the school... having all those memories come back... then seeing my Shop teacher, Mr. Craig still there coaching Soccer (boys). Actually he said he had retired 5 years ago. Then in the stadium, I saw the librarian, Mrs. Cook and her hubby, Mr. Cook, who happened to be my 9th grade Biology teacher. He said he retired in the late 80's and was there watching his daughter play soccer! WOW!
It sure made for a fun and intersting night! Have not been back on school grounds since I left there in 1983 after graduation!
It was really weird walking to the stadium by the school... having all those memories come back... then seeing my Shop teacher, Mr. Craig still there coaching Soccer (boys). Actually he said he had retired 5 years ago. Then in the stadium, I saw the librarian, Mrs. Cook and her hubby, Mr. Cook, who happened to be my 9th grade Biology teacher. He said he retired in the late 80's and was there watching his daughter play soccer! WOW!
It sure made for a fun and intersting night! Have not been back on school grounds since I left there in 1983 after graduation!
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Time Consuming....
Dealing with the details of the aftermath of an accident is TIME CONSUMING! WOW!
Getting a rental, cleaning out the old vehicle, looking for a new one, getting in touch with the insurance people, doing some of the work that the insurance people should have done, researching what people say about the new vehicles you are looking at.... and the list goes on... not to mention the emotional drain of it all.
Here are some daylight pics of my truck. I am sure it is totalled.
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