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Strangers

2012-01-20T10:08:00.000-08:00

Spent some time last night talking to students about the importance and power of sharing our faith with others. Over the course of the discussion the realization came to them, that not sharing their faith was a pretty selfish decision. Christ has given us an amazing gift; the gift of salvation. It is a gift not to be hoarded but rather shared.

Jesus makes it clear that we are to be engaged in sharing our faith. The amazing part of it all is how God uses that. We may think that our only impact is on those we spend time with, but the truth is, it goes much further than that. That stranger sitting next to you in the coffee shop may be following Jesus, because of you!

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Another Year Down

2011-12-21T14:18:00.000-08:00

As 2011 comes to a close I must give pause to reflect on the amazing year it has been. After a three year odyssey of a whole lot of change and uncertainty, 2011 has been the year in which the dust finally settled.

Each day we find our selves thanking God for the way He has provided and blessed. He has blessed us with a new home, new relationships, and an incredible church community to name just a few. Our hearts are full.

As is our family tradition over the past few years we have put together sort of an online Christmas greeting. A video that looks back of the past 12 months showcasing some of the many highlights.

Here's to 2012. I look forward to what it holds.

Christmas Blessing Ministry

2011-12-12T15:46:00.000-08:00

Love being a part of a church that cares so much for the community.

Thank you Foothills!

Beauty Abounds

2011-12-05T16:05:00.001-08:00

How often do you take the time to slow down and just appreciate?

Appreciate the blessings in life.

Appreciate the little things.

Appreciate the big things.

In this fast paced and oft times increasingly negative world we live in, it's much too easy to miss the beauty, yet there is beauty all around us.

There is beauty in a smile.

There is beauty in the giggle of a child.

There is beauty in the changing seasons.

There was beauty in the ice formation I found on my windshield the other morning.

In the words of Ferris Bueller, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop to look around once in a while, you could miss it."

In every passing second there is beauty. Stop and appreciate.

Where do you find beauty?

Where I Live

2011-11-30T15:43:00.001-08:00

I live in the state of Oregon. Oregon is a stunningly beautiful place. A true gem of God's creation!

Uncage The Soul Video Productions has just produced an incredible video entitled "Finding Oregon." The video a 6 month compilation of time lapse photography captures the states unparalleled beauty. It features the Columbia River Gorge, Mt Hood, Mt Jefferson, the Southwestern Coast, the Alvord Desert, Leslie Gulch, Blue Mountains, Crater Lake, Eagle Cap Wilderness, Deschutes River, and more.

Read more about what it took to capture these stunning scenes here.

Ready to visit?

Child Sponsorship

2011-11-18T12:23:00.001-08:00

I just learned about an incredible interactive web series produced by Missions in Action, a ministry with the simple purpose of making a difference around the world. They currently have a team traveling around the globe for the purpose of

Identifying a problem somewhere around the world that people are facing.
Highlighting the actions that individuals and/or companies are taking to help those in need.
Providing a way for viewers to help out through a specific call to action.

As a long time child sponsor and a blogger for Compassion International I am excited about the impact this series will have.

They currently are in the Philippians visiting children and families who live in extreme poverty in the flooded villages of Northern Manila, and showcasing the power of child sponsorship.

Watch this powerful first episode and then ask God what role He might have you play.

I have so enjoyed the relationships I have had over the years with various children. Currently my family and I have the privilege of sponsoring Fernando Isaac Tetlalmatzi Reyes in Mexico and so enjoy the developing relationship we have with him. What a joy it is for my family knowing that we are blessing a young boy living in the midst of great need.

If you have not already done so, I encourage you to consider becoming a child sponsor. You will bless a child in untold ways and you yourself will experience blessing like never before.

Persecuted

2011-11-11T16:56:00.001-08:00

Last week I had the privilege of being at the Right Now conference in Dallas Texas. In a question and answer session with Francis Chan, Francis was speaking about his recent experience in India. When asked what the Church of India thought about the American Church he simply replied, they don't understand it.

He said, they couldn't understand why people would leave their church. Why would a believer leave their church because they did not like they way their pastor preached? Why would a follower of Jesus leave their church because they did not like the music? Why would one leave their church because the children's ministry was not exactly to their liking? You see for those that follow Jesus in a place like India, they put their very lives at risk to follow Him. Faith is not something they claim with their lips but rather something they risk their lives for.

This Sunday is the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. This Sunday as we head off to church with not a care in the world many thousands around the world are putting their lives in danger doing the same thing.

May this video produced by K.P. Yohannan, the founder and international director for Gospel for Asia move you like it did me. May it remind us to not only pray for the 40,000 people that are put to death for surrendering their lives to Jesus, but also help us consider our own journey with Jesus. May it cause us to fully surrender to the One that did likewise for us.

Big Buts

2011-09-13T09:23:00.000-07:00

We are great at coming up with excuses. Let's just make sure our buts are not bigger than our whys?

God calls us to a life of surrender and sacrifice. May we not forget that we can do all things through Him who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).

HT: Rodney Olsen

Life Together

2011-08-17T16:36:00.000-07:00

As a pastor I think a great deal about what God desires for the Church. What should we value? What should our gatherings look like? What is our purpose? While I believe there is much God desires from the Church, one thing I know, is He wants us to experience life together. We were never meant to live in isolation. Life, in community with one another, is what we are called to.

To do so is messy, challenging, exhilarating, and life changing. This fall at Foothills we are placing a great emphasis on Life Groups. Life Groups are small groups of people joining together to live out the five purposes of our church, Prayer, Outreach, Worship, Edification, and Relationships. They are are small groups committed to doing life together.

Sometimes the best way to describe what something is, is to show what it is not...

How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity! Psalm 133:1

Mission of The Church

2011-07-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

I love the Church. I am thankful God has given her to us. I can't imagine doing life without the amazing community of people God has placed me in.

So many times I have heard, "I have Jesus; I don't need the Church," or "I love God, I just can't stand the Church." While it may be true, fellowship with the Church does not equal salvation, we still need the Church, and the Church needs us. Yes the Church is far from perfect, yet in all it's messy imperfection God chooses to use us to impact the world with His message of love.

We as God's people are called to a life of mission. The mission ... the building of God's Kingdom. What makes it exciting, is we are not called to do it alone, rather we are called together into this great adventure. The mission of the Church matters and it is through the unity of the Church that it will be accomplished.

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:24-25

Consumer Worship

2011-05-18T11:47:00.000-07:00

In speaking on the importance of worship, one of my college profs once said something that has always stuck with me. He said, "In America we worship our play and play at our worship." A sad, and yet fairly accurate assessment of the view of worship in the American Church.

We have done a good job of reducing worship down to something we consume as opposed to a lifestyle we live. Worship is more than a quick weekly fix on a Sunday morning. It is even more than a daily time alone with God. It was Jesus that instructed us to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind" (Luke 10:27). Not something done on the fly!

May we remember, it is not about us. It is about the Person of our worship, the One that deserves our full and continual attention and adoration. May the words of the Psalmist ring true in our lives.

Not to us, LORD, not to us
but to your name be the glory,
because of your love and faithfulness.

Psalm 115:1

Living The Dream

2011-04-28T11:15:00.000-07:00

We have been sold a bill of goods. We have been told there is a dream; a dream worth living for. I am all for dreams and living for their fulfillment. The question is, what dream are we living for? Who's dream are we living for? Is it God's dream or the American Dream?

From a very young age we have also been taught to strive for the American Dream. This so called dream basically amounts to getting through school with good grades, so that we can get accepted into a good college or university, in order to get a degree that will help us secure the right job. If we secure the right job then we will make lots of money which in turn will help us buy lots of stuff. The crazy thing is, when we die, all that stuff ends up in the dump. As I understand the Kingdom of God, this is not His dream.

What if we were to trade all this in for a life lived on mission? We live in a world in desperate need of hope. Hope is not found in stuff. Hope is not found in an illusive dream. Hope is found in Jesus. What if instead of trying to achieve the American Dream, we were committed to living out God's dream?

A better dream...

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20

He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8

Foot Washers

2011-04-04T10:54:00.000-07:00

Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.

John 13:3-5

Jesus was and is the perfect example of a leader. He was one that lead by serving others. One who led in love and in humility. He is the ultimate example of how we should lead and serve.

I love that my son, along with the others in his Kid's Church class at Foothills is learning to serve in a like manner. I am thankful for the those that faithfully and humbly lead them.

May we all be foot washers.

Confession, Forgiveness and Freedom

2011-03-30T12:17:00.000-07:00

Life is a story. We all have one tell. Some we are quick to share. Others we'd rather keep to ourselves.

I saw a movie recently that did an incredible job of showing the devastating effects of an untold story. It was a depiction of a man that was haunted by a sin in his life. A part of his story that because he was unwilling to share, cost him his life. A sin that imprisoned him in his own isolated world for 40 years.

The movie Get Low, starring Robert Duvall, Bill Murray, and Sissy Spacek, is a quirky film based on a real-life 1930s legend. It's about man in desperate need of forgiveness, both from others as well as himself. It is a movie worth seeing, and does a great job of opening the eyes of the viewer to the power of confession and forgiveness.

As the movie ended my thoughts went directly to James 5:13-16.

Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

There is great power in the act of confession. James goes so far as to say that through it, we find healing. What a precious gift it is when we are able to live in community with one another at such a deep level that we may freely confess to one another, and find forgiveness and the subsequent freedom that comes from it.

May we as the Church live in such a way. May we be a people that will listen and pray for one another. And may we enjoy the freedom that is offered us through the forgiveness of both Christ and His Church.

Grace Based Parenting

2011-03-15T16:00:00.000-07:00

Over the last six weeks I have been teaching a class entitled, "Raising Kids With A Faith That Lasts." It has been such a blessing to lead a room full of parents who desire to raise their children in the same manner that God raises us!

A major theme throughout the class has been grace. It is by grace that God has called us and leads us, and it is with grace that we as parents must raise our children. If our kids are unable to see grace lived out in our lives, than it is unlikely they will ever see and understand the grace God has for them.

In preparing for the class I stumbled upon this hilarious illustration of the challenge grace can be. Prepare yourself for a good laugh!

Letter To A Dad

A father passing by his son's bedroom, was astonished to see the bed was nicely made, and everything was picked up. Then, he saw an envelope, propped up prominently on the pillow. It was addressed, "Dad." With the worst premonition, he opened the envelope and read the letter, with trembling hands.

"Dear Dad,

It is with great regret and sorrow that I'm writing you. I had to elope with my new girlfriend, because I wanted to avoid a scene with Mom and you. I've been finding real passion with Stacy, and she is so nice, but I knew you would not approve of her, because of all her piercing's, tattoos, her tight motorcycle clothes, and because she is so much older than I am. But it's not only the passion.

Dad she's pregnant. Stacy said that we will be very happy. She owns a trailer in the woods, and has a stack of firewood for the whole winter. We share a dream of having many more children. Stacy has opened my eyes to the fact that marijuana doesn't, really hurt anyone.

We'll be growing it for ourselves, and trading it with the other people in the commune, for all the cocaine and ecstasy we want. In the meantime, we'll pray that science will find a cure for AIDS, so Stacy can get better. She sure deserves it! Don't worry Dad, I'm 15, and I know how to take care of myself. Someday, I'm sure we'll be back to visit, so you can get to know your grandchildren.

Love, your son,
John.

P.S. Dad, none of the above is true. I'm over at Tommy's house. I just wanted to remind you that there are worse things in life than the report card that's in my center desk drawer. I love you! Call when it is safe for me to come home."

May we all follow our Father's example of living out a life full of both grace and truth.

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14

If you are a part of our Foothills family, or are anywhere near the Molalla area, and would like to be a part of this valuable six week class, we will be diving into it a second time, beginning April 5. Whether you are a brand new parent, been at this parenting thing for many years, or yet to even see the twinkle in the eye of your first child, you are invited!

My Highest Calling

2011-02-16T10:02:00.000-08:00

I am a blessed man. Not a day goes by that I am not in awe of the beautiful family God has blessed me with. At the same time, not a day goes by that I am not conscience of and often overwhelmed by, the enormous responsibility I have in leading my family. In my estimation, there is no higher calling.

To be a loving and godly husband is my desire. To love her as Ephesians 5:25-28 is my call.

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.

Equally it is my desire to lead my children in the same manner that Christ leads me. To parent in a fashion that demonstrates both truth and grace.

I want my faith and trust in God to be caught by my children. I want to faithfully parent them as God has called us to in Deuteronomy 6:5-9

Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.

In all of this I am woefully aware of the fact that I can do none of this alone. For me to love and lead my family as God desires, I must first allow Him to lead me. To seek Him daily. To stop long enough in the business of life to listen to Him.

As a spouse and a parent, make it your priority to follow God's lead. Spend time listening to Him. Learn from Him. Allow Him to lead you as you seek to lead the family He has entrusted to you.

Game of Hope

2011-02-04T11:02:00.000-08:00

Love this!

What an amazing difference we can make when we love people the way Jesus does!

At the end of the game Isaiah, the teenage convict-quarterback surprised everybody and asked if he could pray and he prayed, "Lord, I don't know what just happened so I don't know how or who to say thank you to, but I never knew there were so many people in the world who cared about us."

On the way back to the bus, under guard, each one of the Gainsville State School players were handed a burger, fries, a Coke, a Bible and an encouraging letter from the players from Faith Academy.

Sounds like "Sheep" to me!

“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’

“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:31-40

Daily Audio Bible

2011-02-02T16:24:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure how I missed this one, but I just recently came across the Daily Audio Bible podcast, and am loving it.

Since beginning my new ministry at Foothills Community Church I have have been faced with a rather long commute. As we wait on God to send just the right buyer for our home I get to "enjoy" a 50 minute drive each way to work. Not wanting to waste that time, I have been seeking a way to redeem it for something good. One can only listen to so much talk radio!

I have always had a great love for the Word of God. I base my entire life on the truths found within it's pages. I enjoy reading it, studying it and teaching it. Now I am listening to it!

The Daily Audio Bible is a daily podcast of the God's Word. Everyday it is a community of people listening to host Brian Hardin read through the Bible in one year. Each day he reads from a portion of the Old Testament, the New Testament, and from the Psalms and Proverbs. I have found it a way to just sit and let the Word of God filter into my heart and mind and it's incredible!

If you are faced with a long commute or even if you are not, check it out.

Listen now.
Subscribe in iTunes.

Reaching The Unreached

2011-01-08T14:06:00.000-08:00

In Matthew 28:18-20 we are called to "go"; to go and make disciples of all nations. This command is played out differently in each of our lives. For some we are called to stay and pray, for some to give, for others to pick up and move. One thing is sure, we are given no other option, other than "go." However God has called you to live out this great commission, this video produced by AsiaLink will open your eyes anew to the great reality of missions.

Looking Back

2010-12-31T09:47:00.000-08:00

I sit here on December 31, 2010. Another year in the books. As I think back over the last twelve months I can't help but marvel. I marvel at the ride God has had me on. The year has been filled with many ups and downs and surprise twists and turns, all with one destination in mind. To be by His side trusting Him is the destination He has had in mind. As I close out the year I am left with a renewed sense that to be in the center of God's will is the best place to be!

2010 was a year filled with great ministry. For most of the year I was blessed to work with an incredible group of students at Rock Harbor Church in Sherwood, OR. I will forever remember the many adventures we found ourselves on as well as the times of life impact as we together allowed God to form us into who He wanted us to be. In the final three months of the year the Lord called me out of student ministry and into a whole new world.

2010 marked the year that I began my ministry at Foothills Community Church in Molalla, OR. The story of how God moved in lives to call me to make this move is nothing short of amazing! At Foothills we are home. We are at home with a community of people fully committed to being a part of God's story of transformation in the lives of the people of Molalla and around the world.

This last year was also a year of amazing memory making times with the family. From learning to ride a bike, to soccer games, trips to California, to our first cruise. I could not feel more blessed with the family God has given me. A true gift.

As has been the tradition of our family for the last few years, we have complied the best pictures of the year and put together a sort of Christmas e-card. A highlight reel if you will. Here is a look at 2010.

It's now 2011. Here we go!

Enjoy the ride!

Social Network Christmas

2010-12-15T12:47:00.000-08:00

What if Facebook and social media were around at the time of Jesus' birth?

Remember Who We Celebrate

2010-12-13T16:27:00.000-08:00

Last week in our staff meeting we had quite the conversation all centered around this commercial. Have you seen it? Does it bother you like it does me?

I guess when Christmas is all about us, it changes one's perspective. It is sentiment like this, that when asked to write an article for local paper, The Molalla Pioneer, I submitted the following. May we not forget who it is we celebrate this season, as well as the rest of the year.

I love birthday parties. Always have. When I was a child my parents would often throw me great big parties and invite all my friends. I enjoyed the games, the singing and the birthday cake, but what I really loved were the presents! They were all for me and I loved it!

I have been to many birthday parties over the years. One thing that has held true of all them is that it is the one being celebrated that receives the gifts. I have never attended a birthday party expecting to receive gifts from those in attendance. When I ponder Christmas, the birthday of Jesus, I can't help but wonder, how did we get it all mixed up?

It seems that Christmas has become more about us rather than the One in which we celebrate. I wonder what it would look like if we instead of focusing on ourselves this Christmas, we focused more on Jesus.

In reading the story of Christ's birth we read of Magi coming to see the newborn Jesus. What I am struck by is their response to Him. They came to worship and in their worship they gave to Him. What if we were to approach our Christmas celebration in like manner? What if instead of focusing on one another, we in an act of worship, presented gifts to Him?

Giving to Jesus will look different for each of us. Here are some ideas:

Write letter of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year.
Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.
Give to a trusted organization that is actively meeting the needs of the poor.
Donate time or goods to a local charity.
Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.

We are told in Matthew 25:31-46 that when we give to those in need, we are actually giving to Jesus. May we this year discover the joy of giving to the One in which we celebrate, and in doing so demonstrate our love for Him.

Enjoy the birthday party, but remember whom it is for.

Read Molalla Pioneer article here.

Giving Thanks

2010-11-23T14:49:00.000-08:00

Today is a snow day. In Oregon snow days are God's way of saying, slow down. Every once in awhile like in 2008 it is God's way of saying stop! As one that tends to live a fairly fast paced life, this is at times very difficult for me. But it is good. It is good for me to slow down a bit and appreciate being still and enjoy the beauty of the season. That is what I am doing today.

As Thanksgiving approaches I find myself thinking about how this holiday is much like snow day. Thanksgiving is a day set aside to slow down and focus on the things we are called to be focused upon each and every day.

I appreciated Pastor Dale's message on Sunday. It was a good reminder that being thankful is a choice. We are to choose the path of thankfulness every day; even when we may naturally resist it. What does this really look like? What does it look like to live out the words of 1 Thessalonians 5:1, "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus?" We were encouraged to put into practice five statements to God to help us in this journey of thankfulness, and to discover the power that comes with the heart of a thankful person.

Lord, I choose to be thankful today because it is Your will and the path of blessing.
Lord, I choose to be thankful today for who You are and what You have done.
Lord, I choose to be thankful today despite any painful or unpleasant circumstances.
Lord, I choose to reject any despairing, critical, or complaining attitude today from taking control of my mind and emotions.
Lord, I ask You for the strength and courage to live this way today in order to become a more thankful person.

I have much to be thankful for this year.

I am thankful for the amazing family God has blessed me with. A wife that loves and support me, and two kids that I am privileged to parent.
I am thankful for the many opportunities He has brought my way to love people in a way that He is seen and glorified.
I am thankful for the church family He has graciously allowed me to be a part of and serve alongside.
I am thankful for the ups and downs of this year, the times of not knowing what was around the next corner, as they afforded me the opportunity to experience faith in a brand new way.

I am also thankful for humor. Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

When Life Gets Strange

2010-10-27T14:01:00.000-07:00

A lesson many of us learned very early on in life is, life is not fair. The journey of life is filled with confusing, challenging and just flat out difficult seasons. With each twist and turn the question most often posed to God is ... why? Why God do you allow such pain and suffering. Why God do you allow me to experience such difficult circumstances. Throughout the ride of life, I have certainly asked my share of why questions.

A truth that we can hang our hat on is that God is for us. God is for us in life's trying times and has a purpose for them all. As I have emerged from the dark times in my life I find that I begin to see God's purposes for my life so much more clearly.

God's Word is filled with such stories; beautiful narratives of God's redeeming purposes. I think of the story of Job. A man who when all of life's joys, comforts and pleasures were ripped right out from beneath him, continued to trust that His God would not abandon him.

I think of the story of Paul. A man who gave his life to spreading the gospel to the world around him and at the same time found himself shipwrecked, hungry, beaten, and imprisoned. Through it all he remained set upon the call and purpose God had on his life.

The story of Ruth is yet another amazing story. A story of God at work in the midst of pain, confusion, and loss. A story of a young lady who travels through a very dark season, yet because of her faithfulness to do what is right, emerges experiencing God's incredible blessing.

It is as John Piper coins it, a "Sweet and Bitter Providence."

As we navigate the twists and turns of life may we see and experience God's presence and love. May we not look for reasons to explain God away, but rather see life's strangeness as a way to allow God to reveal His divine purposes for us.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, whohave been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

When God Moves You On

2010-10-14T16:18:00.000-07:00

As I have begun my new ministry this week at Foothills Community Church I have found myself thinking quite a bit about how God strategically places us where He can best use us for His purposes and glory. Over my years of ministry I have found myself serving in 6 different churches. I have served in Gladstone, Oregon, Chula Vista, Californnia, Milwaukie, Oregon, Tigard, Oregon, Sherwood, Oregon, and now in Molalla, Oregon. What a ride!

In each location God has had me in, I purposed to stay until He said otherwise, and that is exactly what I have done. When I commit to something, I am one that sends my roots deep. I am not a flighty person but rather one that is committed for the long haul. I value longevity and relationship. It is for that reason that it has never been easy to leave one community and begin anew in a new one. One thing I know, is that when God is in the changes of life, it is exciting and filled with good things! In all the places that I have served, God has clearly led. There is not one that I went looking for. In every move, God has made it clear that that is where He wanted me.

This last Sunday I said goodbye to Rock Harbor Church in Sherwood. We were honored with a beautiful clock to commemorate the time spent. I am thankful for the time God allowed us to spend in community with the wonderful people of Rock Harbor. We truly experienced community with them and the beautiful thing about community, it doesn't have to end.

The apostle Paul has always been a role model to me. He is a picture of one who was radically changed by God and placed in service for Him. He was an individual called out by God for His extraordinary purposes. In that call God had him on the move! He had him moving from Jerusalem to Caesarea, to Rome, Athens, Philippi, Lystra, Cyprus, Antioch, Damascus, Thesslonica, Corinth, and Ephasus. What a resume! I would imagine each departure was accompanied by a few tears. Tears of sadness as well as tears of excitement for what God had next for both Paul and the people in his life.

It's never easy to say goodbye, to move on from those you love, but when God moves you, you go. You go with enthusiasm for what is next. Obedience to God always results in blessing. My family and I reap daily the blessing of following God's lead in our life. We are now eager to experience life and community with the people of Molalla. It is already beginning and how excited we are!

When God moves you on, follow. Follow Him into the great adventure He has for you. As you do, you will experience His power in your life like never before. Follow him. Love Him, and experience what Paul shared with the people of Corinth when he wrote, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him." (1 Corinthians 2:9).

A New Chapter Begins

2010-09-26T12:10:00.000-07:00

It was with a mixture of sadness and excitement that I announced on Sunday my resignation as Associate Pastor at Rock Harbor Church. It has been my distinct pleasure to serve along side the wonderful people of Rock Harbor as we worked together to make a difference in the community of Sherwood and beyond. My family and I are grateful for the opportunity we have had to be a part of this wonderful community.

In recent months the financial, and personal needs of our family have grown and have driven us to seek the Lord in how these would be met. The way in which He has chosen to meet these ever growing needs can only be described as a God thing!

It has been through a great deal of prayer and listening to God that we have come to this place. It has not been an easy decision, yet one in which He has clearly led. We are saddened to say goodbye to our Rock Harbor community, yet at the same time excited about joining God in what He is doing in and through the community of Foothills Community Church in Molalla, Oregon.

Beginning on October 11 I will be taking a bold new step in my life. It is on this day that I will be following God’s lead in stepping out of the student ministry world as I begin my new role as Associate Pastor at Foothills Community Church. It is with eager anticipation that I move forward in my mission “to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up” (Ephesians 4:12).

To my family at Rock Harbor, know that you are loved and will always hold a special place in the hearts of my family. It has been an absolute joy and privilege to join with you in moving God’s Kingdom forward. To the students of Rock Harbor Student Ministries, my life remains open to you. Never hesitate to contact me. I am but a text message, Facebook message, email or phone call away. You are loved. Remain in community with one another and stay close to your leaders. They are fully committed to loving and caring for you. They are the best!

To our new family at Foothills, we are filled with anticipation as we look forward to joining you in your mission to reach the thousands of unchurched people in your geographic area with the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ and to equip them to experience His presence and demonstrate His power. We look forward to doing life with you and experiencing the kind of community that comes from together seeking the heart of God.

The ride continues. Bring it on!

Church = Family

2010-09-15T21:09:00.000-07:00

The Church is family. For a family to operate within it's intended design and purpose, family members must be committed to sacrificially serving one another. So it is with the Church.

Mark Driscoll nails it on this one...

He replied, "My mother and brothers are those who hear God's word and put it into practice." Luke 8:21

Just Do It

2010-09-02T09:16:00.000-07:00

Nike got it right. Don't just talk about. Don't just dream about it. Just do it!

Jesus also has it right. "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." Matthew 16:24.

James certainly nailed it. "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." James 1:22

Why do we get it so goofed up? Why do we tend to dismiss the words of Christ, by merely discussing them, debating them, and even memorizing them? Instead let's just do them!

I appreciate Francis Chan's admonition.

Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did. 1 John 2:6

HT to Adam McLane for the video.

A Summer To Remember

2010-08-29T13:17:00.000-07:00

As summer comes to end, I find myself with a mixed bag of emotions. I am sad because it is my favorite season of the year and I hate to see it go. I rejoice because as I look back over the last three months of ministry, I sit back and celebrate; celebrate all the great things God has done in the life of Rock Harbor Student Ministries.

Through all our different events and gatherings, relationships were deepened. We grew in relationship with one another, we grew in our relationship with our God. It's been good!

Here is a look into the summer of 2010...

As in all of life, with the close of one season, a new one emerges. As we move forward I am confident that the good work God has begun, and continues to do, will continue long into the next season and all those that follow.

Grub Camp 2010

2010-08-13T21:28:00.000-07:00

Over the last 20 years I have been taking students up to Indian Henry Campground on the Clackamas River, to take part in what has affectionately become known as Grub Camp. Today I returned from yet another great time on the river.

There is nothing quite like getting a bunch of guys away from their usual settings and routines to spend some quality time together. We laugh, we play, we have great conversations, and so much more.

I loved the words of one parent after her son returned home, "He came home desperately stinky and filthy and just happy as all get out. Thanks Pastor Brian!" Love it!

We have two slogans for Grub Camp. They go up as boys and return home men, and What happens at Grub Camp stays at Grub Camp!

Due to the the second slogan, I can't tell you everything we do, but this year's video should give you a pretty good idea.

Read more Grub Camp experiences here, here and here.

Dividends of Ministry

2010-07-13T22:41:00.000-07:00

In my 25 years of ministry I have known many people. Serving as youth pastor in six different churches has afforded me the opportunity to enter into and enjoy the relationships of many. Not all have lasted. Some have. It is the relationships that last the test of time that are the real blessing.

Twenty one years ago I served as youth pastor at Gladstone First Baptist. It was my first full time ministry. I often marvel, and at the same time feel so blessed, that a church took a chance on a young 22 year old with very little experience. It was a great time; certainly a learning one! What I love most, is the fact that I am still in relationship with many of them.

This last weekend we once again got together. How fun to see and hear of all the changes that life's journey has brought. How great to see all the young families, many of which are loving and are serving the Lord.

All of us in youth ministry know that one rarely reaps in the same season in which we sow. It is often years later that we see the dividends of time invested in students lives. I am so thankful for what I saw this last weekend, and pray that God continues to do great things in and through all of our lives.

What a privilege and honor it is to play such a strategic role in the lives of young people. I am blessed.

Missional Church

2010-06-23T15:37:00.000-07:00

A good picture of what the church has been and where it should be going.

For The Love of The Father

2010-06-17T15:30:00.000-07:00

With Father's Day approaching and the privilege I have to preach on that day, I have been spending a good deal of time thinking about what it means to be a good father. In my estimation, there is not greater task in life for the man with children, than to father them well.

I firmly believe that our view of God the Father is shaped in great measure by how we view our earthly father. I for one want my children to have a healthy and right view of God. It is when we have a proper understanding of God and His love for us, that we desire to live a life that pleases and honor Him.

I will be opening my message with this video.

Not too long ago, I asked my 5 year old son what he wanted to be when he grew up. I expected to hear answers along the lines of a firefighter, or even superhero. What he answered with, humbled me. He simply said ... you. It brought back memories of this scene a year early as I was mowing the lawn and how he quickly got his little play mower to mow along side me. My son wants to be like me. It is my responsibility to model for him a life that honors God, so that He may do the same.

May it be our desire to emulate our Heavenly Father, because of the love He has for us.
May it be our desire to obey Him and live for Him, not out of duty, but rather out of the love we have for Him.
May we as parents reflect a loving Heavenly Father to our children in all that we do.

UPDATE: Hear Father's Day message here.

Sometimes It Blows Up In Your Face

2010-06-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

Student ministry has been my life calling. It is what God has called me into, and I couldn't be more thankful. What an awesome privilege it is to be used of God to be a part of a person's spiritual journey, especially at such an important stage of life as adolescence.

Not everyone understands why I do what I do, and for as long as I have done it. I have been working with students for over 20 years and I still get a charge out of a good water balloon fight with them.

One thing I love about student ministry is the privilege it is to belong to a tribe of other youth workers who feel the same calling and, well ... just get it. A group of people that understand the value of giving of one's life to the task of coming along side teenagers and leading them into a relationship with the God that created them and loves them more than they know.

Each year Youth Specialities opens their doors to my tribe. The National Youth Workers Convention is a time for thousands of youth workers to get together to be refreshed, recharged, challenged, and encouraged. Read my thoughts and experiences at past conventions here.

I love the promo video produced for this year's convention. It's a great picture of what I do, but even more the power of what happens when others get it. Sometimes it just blows up in your face!

The Struggle of Faith

2010-05-13T10:47:00.000-07:00

Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, "Why couldn't we drive it out?" He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. Matthew 17:19-21

The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" He replied, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you. Luke 17:5-6

After the disciples failed attempt to drive a demon out of a young boy suffering from seizures, they came to Jesus to ask why. His answer, "you have little faith."

How is your faith? Are you finding success and victory in accomplishing the tasks God is calling you into? Are you enduring the tests God brings your way?

My wife Robin, and I, pray together each night. A couple of months back I prayed a prayer that brought concern to her. In my prayer I asked God to increase my faith. The look she gave me at the conclusion of our prayer, made me realize one thing. I had just prayed a dangerous prayer! "Do you realize what you just prayed?" she quipped.

My prayer was heart felt and sincere. God is now answering.

Since that time, we have been tested as individuals and as a couple like never before. It has been a struggle and a challenge. Through it we have realized the need to rely more on our Savior than ever before. It has been a season of discovery. A time of realizing the amount of faith I have, and in what, and in whom, I have placed it. It is growing, but is not yet where it should be.

Have you ever seen a mustard seed? They are very small! To be able to see the mountains and the the mulberry trees in life moved with a faith no larger than the size of a mustard seed, is to me both incredible, and convicting. We all have our own mountains we face. There are many staring down at me this very moment. I am confident they will be moved.

To walk by faith is not easy, yet as we do, there is a peace that comes from God that cannot be achieved or experienced any other way. I often find myself in moments of anxiousness. As I release that anxiousness to God, and realize that He is in in control, the peace comes flooding in. It is in those times, that the mountains move.

There are days in which I wish I had not prayed that prayer that night, yet I am glad I did. It is in the stretching times that our story is written. A story worth telling, so that others might be brought into God's story of living in and by faith.

How is your faith?

Does God Want Us Happy?

2010-04-21T09:13:00.000-07:00

Does God want us to always be happy? If so, why does He allow all the pain, negative circumstances, and trials in life? I have been asked this many times. I myself have wrestled with the notion.

John Piper does a masterful job of addressing this age old question.

What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Romans 8:31-31

I am thankful for a God like this.

An Innocent Man

2010-03-31T21:26:00.000-07:00

It was now about the sixth hour and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour while the sun’s light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" And having said this he breathed his last. Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, "Certainly this man was innocent!" Luke 23:44-47

No one likes to see an innocent man condemned to death. It is not fair. It is not just.

Of all those sentenced to death row in the US since 1973, 139 have been determined to be innocent, and subsequently released. The average number of years between being sentenced to death and exoneration is 9.8. Nearly 10 years of legal battles fought in order to prove the innocence of those wrongly accused. No one likes to see an innocent person suffer.

For the centurion that took part in the execution of Jesus, it took but a few hours for him to realize the innocence of this one that He had just helped put to death. Upon realizing His innocence, he “praised God.”

Jesus was innocent. He could have easily exonerated Himself. He chose not to. John the Baptist referred to Him as the “lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). He was indeed an innocent lamb led quietly to slaughter for you and I.

Most on that day never realized His innocence. Some did. Today is much the same. Most deny that He is the innocent lamb of God who endured unimaginable suffering, so that we might experience life. For those of us that do realize His innocence, we are left with the same response as the centurion … praise of God.

Yes, He was innocent and yet …

He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5

To the Innocent Man I say, Thank you.

If you are reading this post via an RSS Reader and are unable to view the embedded video please click here.

Mad at a Myth

2010-03-13T22:17:00.000-08:00

To night our church hosted a very cool event. It was called Old Town Poetry Night. Sherwood Coffee Company was packed, the coffee was flowing and so were the rhymes! It was a night of great music provided by my friend, Sean Thomas, an open mic for local poets, and featured nationally renown poet Phil Long.

I was moved by one poem in particular. A poem written and performed by Phil Long. The poem, "Mad at a Myth" really left me wondering why it is that people get so mad at the One they consider but a myth. A poem that points to the reality and power of the One so many call Savior. A poem that clearly and creatively demonstrates that He is indeed far more than a mere myth.

One Million Arrows - Review

2010-02-28T23:19:00.000-08:00

I have just read Julie Ferwerda's new book "One Million Arrows." I stand and applaud! It is a book that resonates with my heart on so many levels. It resonates with both the father in me and the youth pastor in me.

In recent years I have experienced a giant shift in my thinking in terms of the way I pastor students. I have come to understand that it is not the churches responsibility to raise kids to be fully devoted followers of Jesus. It's the God given responsibility of parents. Read more of my thoughts here in an article I wrote for Life In Student Ministry. Julie does a fantastic job of bringing to light the importance of this matter.

She writes, "When we take to heart that the home - not the church, not the youth programs, not the Christian school - is the Great Commission Training Center, the lives of our kids are truly impacted soul deep." How true that is. It breaks my heart each time I think of students, both current and past, that have walked away from a love relationship with Christ, simply because they have not seen it in their parents. Christianity equates to one thing for them. Hypocrisy.

The book is filled with stories of families that have taken seriously their call to raise not just good kids, but kids that will make a radical difference for the Kingdom of God. Along with the stories come a host of practical ideas that can be implemented in the raising of our children.

If we as parents are to take seriously the call on our lives to raise world changing kids then it will require a radical commitment on our part. No longer can we rely on the 40 to 50 hours of Biblical education/training a child will receive in a typical year from the Church, rather we must embrace the 2,500 hours a year God has given to us to raise our children.

"No longer can our lives and schedules revolve around sports, entertainment, amusements, busyness, or a host of other 'good' or even 'good enough' activities. They must revolve around best, through getting to know God very personally, glorifying and enjoying Him, and then bringing His Good News to others."

If you are a parent, or one that works with parents, get your hands on this book! Click here or on the image above, for more on this book, along with ordering info.

One Million Arrows

2010-02-13T17:24:00.000-08:00

I have recently been asked by speaker, author, Julie Ferwerda to read and review her new book, "One Million Arrows." It's an excellent work on the importance of raising our children to live out the purpose and mission God has for them. I'm still working my way through, so stay tuned for the review.

In the meantime check out this short video for more insight on the the book. You may even see a family you recognize!

30 Hour Famine

2010-02-10T15:22:00.000-08:00

On February 26-27, I, my students, and thousands of others worldwide will be participating in World Vision's 30 Hour Famine.

This will be the 15th year I have led a group through this amazing event. It's purpose is simple. To get a taste of what hunger feels like, and raise funds for, and awareness of, the hungry and needy in our world. It's in Matthew 25:31-36 that we read Jesus' words instructing us to meet the needs of the lonely, the hungry, the thirsty, the naked, the sick, and the imprisoned, and that in doing so, we minister to Him. It is our desire to do that very thing.

Would you please consider joining us? Would you please pray that God multiplies our efforts to show His love and heart to the needy in our world? Would you also pray that our hearts would be broken and drawn in closer to His?

Would you also please consider giving to this strategic effort? You may click here to be taken to my secure online giving site. This year your giving will even be multiplied by 10 due to a generous government matching grant!

Here's a brief look at a past famine.

The Butterfly Circus

2010-02-03T13:40:00.000-08:00

If you can give 20 minutes of your time, please view this short film. Joshua Weigel, the director and also actor who played Chris, the youth pastor in To Save A Life, has produced a film that does a masterful job of portraying the beauty of hope and grace.

It is for good reason this film won the 2009 Doorpost Film Project. You will be stunned by the artistry of the film, but even more you will be left with much to think about, particularly the truth of how God delights in taking the ashes of broken lives and turn them into something beautiful, to be used for His glory.

I would love your thoughts on the film. Please feel free to comment.

Music of Possibility

2010-01-30T22:22:00.000-08:00

It's easy for one to say, "I want to be all that I can be." It's another thing to truly live it. Each of us has been given one life to live, and along with that, great opportunity to fulfill the purpose God has for our lives. Here is the story of two guys who understand that. May it inspire you as it has me.

Makes me think of the words of Paul found in Philippians 4:11-13...

I am not saying this because I am need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

May we be content with, and more than that, thrive in, the circumstances God has us in.

I Am A Chair

2010-01-20T17:51:00.000-08:00

Oregon is where I make my home. It's a great place with lots of wonderful people. It is also considered to be one of the least churched states in the nation. I often wonder why.

There are churches all over the place in our state. Most are not full. Again, I often wonder why.

I am challenged by this video.

I am a chair from buckheadchurch on Vimeo.

May we as Christ's Church see people as He see's them. May we be committed to loving people as He does. As we do ... may we run out chairs.

Enjoy The Ride

2009-12-29T10:36:00.000-08:00

For me one of life’s greatest pleasures is a good roller coaster ride. I love that feeling of slowing heading up that first hill, heart racing with anticipation as to what will happen next, then rounding the top of the hill and off it goes! Whipping around corners, wind blowing through the hair, taking sudden dips twists and turns, and all at break neck speed. It’s one of those get in, sit down, and hold on experiences! There is nothing you can do to control the ride. All you can do is enjoy.

As the byline of my blog states “… enjoying the ride,” I have often looked at life in such a way. Life is indeed a ride. I have often said, “Just when you think you have life figured out, God takes you in a completely different direction.” 2009 has been one of those experiences. It has been a year in which God has literally asked me to sit down, hold on, and enjoy the ride.

It was at this time last year that Robin and I knew our life was about to take some unexpected twists and turns. By February the ride had begun. Due to leadership restructuring at the church in which we had served for 11 years, we found ourselves unemployed and without a church home. God had literally asked us to step out in faith and trust Him. He was asking us to trust Him to meet our needs, and place us where He could best use us.

If at the time you were to ask us if it were our desires to be facing such an uncertain future, I am sure no would have been our answer. Not knowing where God was going to take us, we sat down, held on, and off we went.

Over the next three months it was the promises of God, found in His Word, that kept us going. There were a couple of scriptures in particular that I clung to as reminders that my job was simply to trust Him, and not worry.

The first was Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

There were plenty of times in which I wanted to figure it all out, to in my limited understanding of what God was up to, figure out what He was doing and determine what was next for us. It never worked. Those three months were nothing less than a journey of trusting God and acknowledging that He knew exactly what He was doing with our lives.

The second scripture God used was Philippians 4:6-7 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

As I sought to trust God during this time, I was reminded of the value of prayer and the peace that comes along with it. Being anxious about our future only brought about panic and stress. As we spent time seeking God in prayer, He filled our hearts with peace. Indeed a peace that transcends all understanding.

As we emerged from that three month period of wandering and wondering, God began to make it clear what was next for us, and that of course was to join the community of Rock Harbor. We now feel tremendously blessed by where God has placed us.

One year earlier we would have never dreamed of being where we are today. Had we not trusted God to guide us to this place, we would have not had the privilege of joining with such a fine group of people. We as well would not have had the opportunity to be a part of so many people’s lives and spiritual journeys.

There is no better place to be than in the center of God’s will.

As we approach 2010 we approach a year of unknowns. May it collectively be our hearts desire to sit down, buckle up, hold on, and enjoy the ride!

Love All

2009-12-20T06:28:00.000-08:00

We all know Jesus performed great miracles during His time here on earth. He healed the sick, made the bind to see, and raised the dead. Because of His love for humanity, particularly the suffering and marginalized, He brought healing and restoration to the lives of many. He did these things for one reason. It was so people would experience Him for who He is, and as a result enter into relationship with Him.

Here's the beautiful thing about Jesus. Though being rich, He became poor, so that He could show love to the poor, the needy and the outcast (2 Corinthians 8:9). This Christmas and during the season of Advent, we have been given the challenge to Spend Less. Through the simple act of spending less we are able to show love, and enter into this week's theme ... Love All.

It's easy to fall victim to the line of thinking that says, I can't possibly have the same impact that Jesus did. May we not forget, it was Jesus who said in John 13:12, I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. Jesus has left this earth, and in doing so has given us the opportunity and responsibility, to now be His presence here. We are even told we will do even greater things!

The needs of people abound. The opportunities are limitless. May we be asking ourselves this week, how might Jesus use me to Love All? Don't let the great need overwhelm you, rather let it move you. You may not be able to change the whole world, but you can change the world of at least one person.

Here are a few activities our church will be engaging in this week. Might you join us?

• Sponsor a Compassion Child or give to World Vision through their gift catalog.
• Donate time or goods to a local charity.
• Pray for people in your home, community, and around the world.
• Put a gift for God under your tree. Put into practice what you have learned through the Advent Conspiracy.

Give More

2009-12-13T08:38:00.000-08:00

Today we enter week three of the Advent season, and the Advent Conspiracy. This week's theme ... Give More.

Like you, I have been given many Christmas gifts over the years. Some deeply thoughtful and greatly appreciated. Others, well let's just say while appreciated, they likely ended up in the white elephant gift exchange the following Christmas.

As I think of why Christ came to be with us on that first Christmas, I think of time. I think of presence. Christ came to spend time with us, to love us, and through His presence lead us into a deep and meaningful relationship with Him. In fact the depth of His desire drove Him to give the ultimate gift ... His life. Out of gratitude for what He has done, I can think of no greater gift than to emulate His.

Time is the greatest gift we can give. It is of much greater value than a Christmas sweater, an electronic gadget, or a subscription to the jelly of the month club. Time is lasting. Time changes lives. This Christmas may we consider how we might give more through the giving of our lives.

Here are a few activities our church will be engaging in this week. Might you join us?

• Set up coffee or a meal with a friend this week. Call a long distance friend.
• Serve another family or individual (one that doesn't attend church).
• Write affirmation cards to friends, co-workers, or family members.
• Pray for our public servants and write them a note.

Next week ... Love All.

Living Nativity

2009-12-08T21:26:00.000-08:00

Once again The Skit Guys or Skit Guy as it were in this video, hit it out of the park! Very funny. Very powerful.

Watch video and ask yourself ... could you??

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

Sure thankful we aren't "out of luck."

Spend Less

2009-12-06T08:44:00.000-08:00

Today we begin week two of the Advent season, and the Advent Conspiracy. This week's theme ... Spend Less.

At Christmas time, we like to spend. The National Retail Federation reports that we spent 41.2 billion dollars over the Black Friday weekend. That is an average of $372.57 per person! As one who both hates spending and getting up early, I am equally blown away by their finding that nearly one-third (31.2%) of all shoppers on Black Friday were at the stores by 5 a.m.!

Each year since 1984 the PNC Wealth Management Company calculates the cost of the beloved carole, "The Twelve Days of Christmas." One thing is certain: It's getting quite costly to buy our true love all the items mentioned! Here's are this year's numbers.

This week's theme of Spend Less could not be more appropriate. Just the simple act of buying one less gift this year has the potential of freeing us up to be more available to celebrate Christ during this advent season. What if instead of buying that one gift, we used that money saved to present Jesus with a birthday gift this year?

Here are few activities our church will be engaging in this week. Might you join us?

• Set a budget for your Christmas spending - don't forget about the next two themes (Give More & Love All).
• Pick one person you were planning to buy a present for and make one instead.
• Make some homemade Christmas cards with personal messages for friends.
• Invite friends or another family to share a meal with you.

Next week ... Give More.

World Vision Gift Catalog

2009-12-02T21:11:00.000-08:00

I love that Christmas is a time for giving. Giving is a wonderful expression of love and gratitude toward those that are most important to us.

Two years ago our family began a new Christmas tradition. While we still give gifts to one another, we place more emphasis on giving gifts to Jesus. It is after all...His birthday.

In Matthew 25:31-46 we read of Jesus honoring those that gave to the "least of these." Those that suffer and have been pushed to the margins of society. He goes so far as to say that when we give to the hungry, the thirsty, the naked, the imprisoned, the strangers, and the sick, we are actually giving to Him. What better way to give to Jesus than to give to those that have real need! I love that World Vision has provided a fun way for people to do that very thing.

The World Vision Gift Catalog is filled with incredible giving ideas. Opportunities to give to the poorest of the poor in the name of a loved one that you would normally give a gift to. It's an opportunity to let someone a world away know that they have not been forgotten. An opportunity to be a blessing to those Jesus referred to as "the least."

As you consider the gifts you will give this Christmas, consider how you might also give to the One in which we celebrate. It will change your whole outlook on how you celebrate Christmas!

Worship Fully

2009-11-30T23:06:00.000-08:00

This week marks the beginning of the Advent season. I am excited about the focus that this season brings. A focus on the celebration of the birth of our Savior. A focus on how His birth changed the world 2009 years ago, and still does today.

For this season of advent, our church is again participating in the Advent Conspiracy. Each week we are asking our community to do something that will lead them into the theme of the week. This week ... Worship Fully.

Here are a a few activities we will be entering into. Perhaps you might join us.

• Create a Christmas cd or playlist combining Christmas songs with worship songs.
• Begin thinking what gift you can give to Jesus this Christmas.
• Write a worship letter to God highlighting His character.
• Practice worshiping God through each hour of your day. Take time for Him regularly.

Next week ... Spend Less.

Thanksgiving Inventory

2009-11-25T15:19:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is truly my favorite holiday. It is pure, simple, noncommercial, and focused on the very thing God calls us to be ... thankful.

May we all spend some good time this year taking inventory of all our blessings, even the chicken nuggets!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Advent Conspiracy

2009-11-06T14:29:00.000-08:00

In recent years my family and I have viewed Christmas very differently. We have made the decision to make Christmas more about presence and less about presents. This switch has resulted in a deeper appreciation for the presence of Christ in our lives, and a deeper understanding of how we can be the presence of Christ in the lives of others.

This year our church will again be participating in the Advent Conspiracy. I look forward, as a community, to celebrating the birth of Christ and at the same time making a big difference in the lives of those that have great need.

With Christmas less than two months away, now is the time to begin considering how you will approach and celebrate this important time of year. Begin a new tradition. Make plans now to join the conspiracy.

Sacrifice

2009-10-29T12:07:00.000-07:00

If there is one thing in this life that I attempt to avoid, it's pain and persecution. I don't know anyone that enjoys it. Unlike many in this world, we as the American Church find ourselves fairly sheltered from it. This concerns me. I am often haunted by the words of 2 Timothy 3:12, "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted."

Listen to John Piper's words and consider your life of sacrifice.

To live a radical life of sacrifice for Christ is both our highest calling as well as the highest honor we can ever achieve.

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10

HT to Adam.

Colors of Fall

2009-10-17T15:33:00.000-07:00

I know it happens every year, yet each Fall I am blown away by the beautiful colors of the season. Whom ever it was that planned Woodhaven, our neighborhood, they really knew what they were doing when they planted the trees! And for the One that created the trees ... Wow, He really knew what He was doing!

Then God said, "Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds." And it was so. The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:11-12. Good it is!

Like Jesus

2009-10-13T10:11:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking a lot lately about what it really means, and what it really looks like, to be a follower of Jesus. Is it going to church? Is it having a quiet time every day? Is it praying a certain amount of time each day? Is it tithing to your church? Is it living in America? What is it?

I hear a lot about how America is a Christian nation, or at least used to be. I have to ask ... Really? What makes us such? Is it because our money says, "In God we trust?" I tire of the forwards I receive in my inbox bemoaning the fact/rumor that our government wants to remove that phrase from our money. Does it really matter? Is it that important that our money contains that phrase, or are we merely paying lip service to God with it, because we really don't fully trust Him and live as Him?

1 John 2:16 gives us that answer. "Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did." May we as the Church not just admire Jesus from afar, or like Him for who He was, or pay lip service to Him, but may we truly walk as Jesus did.

Francis Chan said it well. Check this out ...

May we not just like Jesus but rather may we walk like Jesus.

Blessed Be Your Name

2009-09-23T10:13:00.000-07:00

God is good. How easy it is to say when life is going our way.

So many times I have heard those words come from the mouths of people as they experience the good things in life. The blessings. The stuff prayed for. While the statement surely is true, I am often left to wonder, would God still be "good" when life falls apart?

Is God only good in the good times? How it must break God's heart to be called good when life is going our way, and then in the next moment shake our fists at Him when life turns on us.

I have had my share of ups and downs in this life. Times of great rejoicing and times of great anguish. I am thankful to God for His goodness through it all. I am blessed and inspired by the words of Job who could honestly say, "The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised."

May we say the same.

Dude Perfect

2009-09-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

I'm not that big of a sports guy, but this is simply amazing!

Six college guys having a great time making crazy basketball shots and then posting the fun to Youtube. What's even better, they turned it into a cause.

For every 100,000 views of this video produced at Christian camp, Sky Ranch, they will sponsor one child with Compassion International.

Watch the video so they get one more view, and then read more about Dude Perfect and their cause. Very cool!

Honor

2009-09-03T13:13:00.000-07:00

Honor your father and mother—which is the first commandment with a promise — that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth. Ephesians 6:2-3

Social Media Revolution

2009-08-25T22:34:00.000-07:00

This just amazes me. For those that think social media is but a fad ... think again.

The social media revolution is nothing less than a cultural shift. A revolution. Social media has changed the way we do life, and for the Church the implications of all this are staggering. It excites me to be a part of it all.

What do you think?

Lord Save Us From Your Followers

2009-08-21T16:04:00.000-07:00

I shared my thoughts on this provocative movie back in April of 2008 and continue to get a fair amount of traffic to this blog as a result. You can read what I wrote here. I'm now excited to learn that it will finally be hitting the big screen! Check here to see where.

If you have not yet seen this film be looking for it in theaters this September and do all you can to make sure you see it. It is my hope that this movie will continue to spark the conversation that is so badly needed in both the Church and culture at large.

This is a great song taken from the movie that will get you thinking.

Power of Forgiveness

2009-08-06T15:50:00.000-07:00

As I prepared my message on Forgiveness this week, I came across a great story as told by Brennan Manning. It's a story of a women who visited her priest and told him that when she prays, she sees Jesus in a vision.

“He appears to me as real as you are standing here right now, Father,” said the woman. “And He speaks to me. He tells me that He loves me and wants to be with me. Do you think I’m crazy?”

“Not at all,” replied the priest. “But to make sure it is really Jesus who is visiting you, I want you to ask Him a question when He appears to you again. Ask Him to tell you the sins that I confess to Him in confession. Then come back and tell me what He said.”

A few days later the women returned.

“Did you have another vision of Jesus?” the priest inquired of her.

“Yes I did Father,” she replied.

“And did you ask Him to tell you the sins that I confessed to Him while I was in confession?”

“Yes I did,” the woman answered.

“And what did He tell you?” asked the priest expectantly.

“He said...’I forgot.’”

I love that about God.

The more we understand the extent of God's forgiveness of us, the more we will be able to forgive one another. There is great power in forgiveness.

I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more. Isaiah 43:25

As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. Psalm 103:12

Building A Youth Ministry Team

2009-08-01T13:20:00.000-07:00

If I have learned one thing in my years of doing youth ministry, it's that it can't be done alone. The youth pastor who thinks they can do it all, and be all to all students is only fooling themselves. It is for very good reason that God has uniquely gifted all believers. Check out 1 Corinthians 12.

Yesterday I had the privilege of being the guest on Tim Schmoyer's LIVE YM Talk leading a discussion on the importance of building a youth ministry team. It was a great conversation with youth workers from around the country.

We covered topics like:

Why building a team is so important
Ideas for promoting unity, training, and working with their schedules
Good and bad reasons why someone might serve
Answered questions from the chat audience

If you are a leader in the Church in any capacity it's worth a listen. A lot of great thoughts and ideas came out.

You can hear it here or grab it in iTunes.

End Extreme Poverty

2009-07-28T09:54:00.000-07:00

Ok, so it's a little cheesy, but watch this video and then ask yourself ... what if it really happened?

Have you done your part?

Our family has been tremendously blessed by the relationship we share with Lizbeth an 8 year old girl from Mexico. We have had the privilege of being a part of her life for a number of years. In her most recent letter to us she writes, "May God's peace be always with you! I want to tell you that I am doing well in school. I will pass to 4th grade of Primary School soon. I give thanks to God because I have earned good grades. Everyday I pray for your family and you. At Bible School I have learned that God is great and that He is everywhere. God loves us very much no matter is we are of different nationality or if we have different color of skin."

Sponsorship is definitely a relationship of mutual blessing!

Cat's In The Cradle

2009-07-02T10:52:00.000-07:00

This morning as I was driving and listening to the radio, an old classic song came on. A song that has been around since 1974. I have known it for years; in fact it was one of the first songs I ever learned to play on the guitar. Musically it's great, lyrically it's frightening.

As a father I think often of how my son looks up to me, and in many ways tries to be like me. Read more of my thoughts here. The task of parenting is not one to be taken lightly. In my estimation there is no greater endeavor.

As a pastor one of my greatest desires is to see healthy families. Healthy families begin with parents that are completely and fully following after Christ, and modeling that life for their children. I believe the number one reason that the Church is seeing so many high school grads drop away, is that our kids have not seen a genuine faith modeled for them by their parents. There is no greater influence in the life of a child than mom an dad.

Listen to this classic Harry Chapin song, and let the message run deep.

Be With Jesus

2009-06-26T14:24:00.000-07:00

One of the coolest things about following Christ is the fact that He uses ordinary people for His extraordinary purposes. I have engaged in numerous conversations over the years, with people who because of a lack of Biblical training or knowledge, assumed they didn't have what it took to do anything big or noteworthy for the Kingdom. Nothing could be further from the truth!

At Rock Harbor we are currently engaged in a great study of Hebrews 11. A New Testament chapter filled with amazing examples of people who because of their faith were used of God in amazing ways. I would encourage you read it.

In my reading of Acts 4 the other day I was struck anew by the lives of Peter and John. In this particular chapter we read of these two teaching and proclaiming the good news of Jesus, and seeing thousands believe and give their lives to Him.

As the religious leaders of their day stood by watching they grew increasingly annoyed with these two untrained, ordinary guys, and the results of their teaching. Their indignation finally culminated in the bringing of these two before them to ask, "By what power, or by what name did you do this?" In a bold move Peter clearly told them that it was through Jesus Christ that they spoke. What the rulers, elders, and teachers of the law said next is what it all comes down to.

In verse 13 we read, "When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus." Love it!

It's not schooling that one needs. It's not even experience that one needs. All that is needed to have a tremendous impact for the Kingdom of God is to be with Jesus.

Have you been with Jesus today?

Think On This

2009-06-17T10:30:00.000-07:00

Was Jesus really a rebel? Yes, but Jesus didn't rage against some abstract machine, he called people to an old way, the way revealed in the prophets. The way of doing life that Jesus championed had never been done because it had always been resisted. Jesus rocked the boat, and defied the status quo, modeling courageous resistance of the prevailing winds. But in our contemporary culture, rebellion is considered good in its own right - and a thrilling one at that. We're out to transgress. But we don't really have any agenda beyond rebellion itself. Was Jesus really a rebel? Sure. But our version of rebellion is a shallow impression.
- Paul Grant, Blessed are the Uncool (InterVarsity, 2006)

Verbal Comments

2009-06-15T11:36:00.000-07:00

You may now leave verbal comments on this blog!

Here's how it works:

1. Press the “call me” button and it will tell you what your next step is.

2. Enter your name and the phone number you'd like to be called at. If you choose "keep number private" that means it will still use that phone to connect you, I just won't be able to see that number.

3. Click "Connect."

4. A random phone number from Google Voice will call you. Answer the call.

5. You will get a personal greeting from me, saying hello and telling you what to do. Your message will not ring my phone, it will just go directly to both my voicemail and email.

6. Leave your comment or message. If it's a private message that you would rather not be published to my blog, just let me know and I will keep it that way.

7. As soon as you hang up, Google Voice alerts me that I have a new message.

8. I listen to your message, and read the message transcribed in my email.

9. If your message is relevant to this blog, I will post your comment to the post you are referencing. Again, if it's a personal message, I will keep it that way.

Go ahead and give it a try. I would love to hear from you!

Blog Change

2009-06-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot of change in my life recently. Seems it has been a real season of change, so it's only fitting that after three years of this blog having the same look, it was time for a change.

One of the coolest things I have added is RefTagger. If you hover over any scripture reference a window will pop up displaying the scripture. It can be set to most any translation. You will find mine set to the NIV. Check it out, here is one of my favorite scriptures ... Philippians 4:6-7.

If you have a blog go to RefTagger and check it out. It's very easy to install.

Enjoy!

Treasure

2009-06-11T10:07:00.000-07:00

What is it you treasure? What are the things in life that are most important to you? We live in a culture that desires to dictate to us the things in which we should treasure. Money, cars, friends, homes, status, success, all things we fall victim to.

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21

Recently I have been captivated by the words of Paul in Philippians 4:10-13.

I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

I love that Paul knew what it meant to be content. In whatever circumstances he found himself in, he was content. If he was without food, he was content. If he was in poverty, he was content. If he was experiencing wealth, he was content. He understood the secret to true contentment. Christ. It was through Christ that he was able to go through any situation and experience contentment. Christ was his treasure.

John Piper says it well in this 1031sermonjams produced video.

From Eternity to Here

2009-06-09T07:20:00.000-07:00

I have been reading a good number of books recently. I enjoy pushing my thinking beyond the paradigms and opinions I currently hold. This has certainly been the case recently.

One of the books I have been working my way through is one in which I was sent and asked to write a review for. The book is Frank Viola's most recent, "From Eternity To Here" (David C. Cook, 2009). The tag line of the book's title is, "Rediscovering The Ageless Purpose of God." The statement holds true.

After reading the book I have a far greater appreciation for Jesus and the love He has for us, His Church. What is presented is a God that is passionately and madly in love with His bride, the Church. What I appreciate most is how Viola draws out the scriptural analogy of the Church being the bride of Christ.

I yet to meet a groom, who was not absolutely smitten and passionately in love with his bride. In like manner, that is how Christ see us! The irony is, we all too often fail to see ourselves in the same manner.

Viola says it well when he writes, "In the eyes of your beloved Lord, you are the most captivating thing that exists in His universe. How then, can you think of yourself as being unworthy in the presence of so great a truth?" I don't know about you, but that truth stirs my heart.

This same truth is found in the words of Ephesians 5:25-27. "...Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless."

It is only through accepting Christ's love, and His view of us, that we are able to serve Him from anything other than guilt or duty. It is when we accept His passionate love for us that we are able to reciprocate it through they way we live. Viola offers a great reminder when he writes, "We are His bride, not His slave or His maid"

It is my desire to love and live for my Lord not out of guilt or duty, but out of an intense love for Him. Why? Because that is how He loves me!

If you desire a new appreciation for the love relationship Christ has with you, read this book. It will open your eyes to how much He does indeed love us, and how the whole of Scripture is nothing short of a love story. A love story between Christ and His bride.

Today (June 9th), the following blogs are discussing Frank Viola's new bestselling book, "From Eternity to Here" (David C. Cook, 2009). The book just hit the May CBA Bestseller List. Some are posting Q & A with Frank; others are posting full reviews of the book.

Church Planting Novice

Emerging from Montana

Leaving Salem, Blog of Ronnie McBrayer

Jason Coker

From Knowledge to Wisdom

Home Brewed Christianity

Dispossessed

Dandelion Seeds

David Brodsky's Blog- "Flip the tape Deck"

What's With Christina?!

On Now to the Third Level

Irreligious Canuck

This day on the journey

Live and Move: Thoughts on Authentic Christianity

Spiritual Journey With God

Searching for the Whole-Hearted Life

Go to Amazon now and you can get the book at a 33% discount.

Sabbatical

2009-05-21T11:40:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow our family leaves for a week away at Black Butte Ranch. It will be a wonderful time as a family to rest, renew, and prepare for the next chapter in our lives. Three days after our return, I hit the ground running in my new position at Rock Harbor.

These last three months have been a wonderful time as we have waited on the Lord to show what was next. It has been a great time of rest and reflection; a true sabbatical. Perhaps the best part of my time off has been all the time I have had to spend with my little man, Benny. Not many dads get as much time with their children as I have had over the last three months.

We have enjoyed bike rides, gardening, preschool field trips, treks to the pond in search of frogs, time at the park, and much more. What a blessing this time has been!

While these last three months were not necessarily a part of our plan, they were certainly part of God's, and have I ever enjoyed them! I am thankful for all God has done for us as a family. He has provided and blessed in ways we could never have imagined!

I am now excited and eager to see how the next chapter unfolds. Stay tuned!

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Following His Lead

2009-05-17T21:32:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite aspects of following Christ, is the confidence that we can have in His leadership. A favorite scripture of mine has always been Proverbs 3:5-6,

Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight.

As we followed God's lead in stepping away from our ministry position of nine years we had no idea how God was going to lead. Where would He take us? What would He have us do? All we knew is that we wanted to be in the center of His will, to trust Him completely, knowing and believing that He would reveal to us His perfect plan. It has been quite a ride, and He has, as always, proven Himself faithful and true.

I am happy to share that this morning it was announced to the Rock Harbor community that as of June 1, I will be joining their leadership team as their Associate Pastor. Most of my time will be spent focused on student ministries with the balance of my time serving and leading in other areas of ministry.

We are so thankful for the church God has led us to. Not only is it right in our community, meaning no need to make a move, it is also a church that fits well with who we are, and is a church that values the things that we see as important in a church community.

Rock Harbor is a recent church plant of two and a half years that is committed to and focused upon four important values: Truth, Authenticity, Community, and Hope.

Truth – built on the foundation of the Word of God. Our teaching is bible-based and application oriented. We search for answers together in the bible.

Authenticity – a place where you can succeed or struggle and see others do the same. You are not expected to leave your baggage in the car but bring it with you to share with other believers and leave at the foot of the cross.

Community – connecting people with one another in caring relationships. Building relationships is not optional but expected. We will greatly benefit by bringing out each others strengths and helping to cover one another's weaknesses.

Hope – our only hope is found in Jesus Christ. It is not “wishful thinking” but a promise from God to us. Not only do we look to Christ for our hope but openly share it within our sphere of influence and proactively build relationships so that we may share our hope with others.

We are excited to follow God into this new chapter of our lives and ministry. We are excited to connect with such a wonderful community of people, and are excited to see where God takes us as we seek to be the church God desires. We continue to enjoy the ride!

If you are in the Sherwood area and need a church home, come join us!

Who Do You Live For?

2009-05-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

Do live for yourself, for others, or for Christ?

How easy it is to simply live for our own desires. Similarly, how easy it is to fall into the trap of living our lives for the desires of others. In youth ministry we often speak of the struggle students face in dealing with peer pressure, the pressure to live as others expect. If we are to be honest with ourselves, it is a struggle that more than just teenagers deal with.

Have fun with this Candid Camera video as you consider who it is you live for.

May we remember....

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20.

HT to Adam McLane for the video.

Rooted

2009-05-02T16:44:00.001-07:00

As we move into Spring, I find myself thinking about seasons. I enjoy the change of seasons. As we leave winter behind I am especially excited about the warmth, fragrance, and color of Spring. Spring also means my favorite season, Summer, is just around the corner!

Just as the calender brings different seasons, so does life. Some are more welcomed than others. I often wish the seasons of life would be more spring and summer like, but often, they are not. As the winter months bring harsh and trying weather, there are often seasons in life which bring harsh and trying times.

Here in the Northwest it is not uncommon to see large trees topple to the ground as strong Pacific storms blow through. As the harsh winds beat relentlessly against the trees there is but one determining factor that decides whether they stand or fall, roots. The tree with the weak and dying root system rarely fairs well, where as the tree with the deep, healthy, and strong roots stand.

Much like the tree, it is our roots that make the difference. As we seek to grow in our knowledge of Christ, our roots grow healthy and deep. As we are well rooted in Christ, our faith grows, and as our faith grows, we will experience the strength needed to ride out the unwelcomed storms of life.

How are your roots?

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Colossians 2:6-7

Compassion Bloggers to India

2009-04-23T12:47:00.000-07:00

I have been actively involved in the ministry of Compassion International for many years and have seen countless children set free from the bonds of poverty as a result. In my years of sharing the ministry of Compassion I have met many a skeptic. Unfortunately there are enough "relief agencies" out there that are less than honorable with the money that has been generously entrusted to them. As a result skepticism often arises in people's minds when introduced to the ministry of Compassion International.

Aside from being very open with their financial information they do a great job of giving people a first hand look at their ministry in action. One of the many ways they effectively accomplish this are blogger tours. To date they have taken bloggers to Uganda and the Dominican Republic. On April 26 a team of five bloggers leave for Kolkata, India to experience first hand the abject poverty, and the difference Compassion is making in the lives of those living in it.

Following along with these bloggers to see what they see, and feel what they feel.

If you have not already, prayerfully consider sponsoring a child today. The relationship you will enjoy and the difference you will make will be greater than you can imagine. Click here to begin your ministry to a very special needy child.

The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Matthew 25:40.

To Be Like Dad

2009-04-16T17:38:00.000-07:00

I recently posted this picture of my son, mowing the lawn with me to my Twitter account. My accompanying tweet said, "Getting the lawn mowed. Nice to have a 'little help.'" Little did I know, such a simple picture would inspire my friend Greg to write the following blog post. It is so good, I share it here.

Consider My Servant

Recently, a friend of mine went out to mow his lawn. While he was mowing, his 4 year old son came out, with his toy lawn mower, to “help” him. My friend was so excited and proud and impressed that his son wanted to help, that he took a picture of it and posted it on Twitter.

It’s a very cute picture: there is the front of my friend’s lawn mower (I think it’s a John Deere). To the right of the mower is the freshly cut grass, to the left of the mower is the uncut grass, and right in front of it is his little boy pushing his toy lawn mower that looks almost like Dad’s.

Now, you know he’s not really helping…it’s a toy, it’s not really doing anything, but I wonder what was going through that little guy’s mind. I came up with five things he might be thinking:

1. I want to be with my Dad.

2. I want to be like my Dad.

3. I want to please my Dad.

4. I’m really helping him out.

5. I bet he’s proud of me.

(Knowing my friend like I do, and the fact that he posted the picture, I know number 5 is true.)

I thought of a similar story in Job 1:6-9:

Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan also came among them. The Lord said to Satan, “From where have you come?” Satan answered the Lord and said, “From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking up and down on it.” And the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil?”

(A side note: If God twittered this question it would look like this: Have U considered my servant Job, that thr is none lk him on the earth, a blameless & upright man, who fears God & turns away from evil?)

Just like my friend, God is proud of His people who do good, after all it’s what we were created for. (Ephesians 2:10)

The thing that struck me the most is the fact that, even though God is proud of me for doing good works, and even though I get all full of myself for “helping” my Heavenly Father, I sometimes wonder if I’m mowing the lawn with a toy lawn mower. And then I think, maybe that’s what Jesus meant when He said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:14)

My motivation for doing good should be 1, 2, 3, and 5 on that little boy’s list:

1. I want to be with my Dad.

2. I want to be like my Dad.

3. I want to please my Dad.

5. I bet he’s proud of me.

If I convince myself that any of my good works are worth anything I’m kidding myself. (Isaiah 64:6) But I’m going to keep doing them, because I want to make my Daddy proud.

So good! May we all strive to be more and more like our Daddy.

Safety First?

2009-04-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

How safe do you play it? Do you live life to the fullest or do you play it safe? Conventional wisdom says to play it safe. It tells us to get a good job, save lots of money, and retire comfortably. Is that really the life God invites us into?

These are questions I have wrestled with over the years. Which is more responsible, to store away so that I can eventually enjoy a comfortable retirement and hopefully leave something behind for my kids, or to live a life of faith and trust? A life that gives more than it saves. A life that is more concerned about the life to come than this present one.

In my current pursuit of what God has next for my family and me, I wrestle with these thoughts. Do I hold out for the "perfect job" that promises to provide all the things on our list of desires, or do I walk through the doors God is opening before us to serve Him right here, right now? The "perfect job" may or may not come. The one thing I am certain of, is the one who is perfect, promises to meet us where we are, and to provide for our every need. What He desires of us is faithfulness (Matthew 6:25-33).

God does not call us into a life of safety. He calls us into a radical lifestyle of trust and faith. It's not always a safe life, but it's an exciting life, and one that culminates in hearing the words, "Well done good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:21). It is those very words that I hope to hear someday.

I hope this Francis Chan video challenges you as it does me.

Did You Know?

2009-03-29T14:26:00.001-07:00

Are you ever dizzied by how rapidly culture is changing? Just today I had a conversation with a friend about how different the world is from when our parents were our age. We think nothing of paying a cell phone bill, internet bill, and cable bill each month. We think nothing of loading 10,000 songs onto a device the size of a pack of gum, or paying $3.50 for a cup of coffee. Our parents on the other hand, would never have even imagined such things.

The world is changing rapidly. I can't help but wonder, what will our children be doing someday, that today we can't fathom? In considering such a rapidly changing world, how do we respond? More importantly how does the Church respond?

Over the generations culture has remained much the same. The same has held true in the Church. With culture now accelerating at such a rapid rate, we as the Church must consider, how we are going to live, and minister, to effectively remain relevant, and fulfill our mission to reconcile the world back to it's creator.

Did you know...

Think On This

2009-03-21T21:48:00.000-07:00

If your church is serious about reaching the unchurched, you must be willing to put up with the people who have a lot of problems. Fishing is often messy and smelly. Many churches want the fish they catch to be already scaled, gutted, cleaned and cooked. That is why they never reach anyone.
- Rick Warren

A New Chapter

2009-03-10T16:28:00.000-07:00

If you have been reading my blog recently, you know that God has led me to embark on a new chapter in my life. After serving at Grace Point Community Church for the last 11 years, He is now leading me on a brand new adventure.

Change is not always easy. It often requires a measure of faith that is greater than what has previously been lived out. That is where I find myself now. A new journey of faith. A new chapter in life.

I am excited to see what it is that God has next for me and my family. As we are seeking God for His next assignment, I have put together a new web site designed for those that may also be beginning a new chapter within their church ministry. My new resume site is a site created to give churches a glimpse into my life and ministry.

If you are part of a church, or know of one, that is seeking God's will for a new pastoral position, I invite you to take a look. I would love to find myself ministering to students once again, or perhaps even in a new area of ministry. You will find my site at http://brianeberly.wordpress.com. Once there you will find various posts, videos, articles, and more all designed to give you a look into my ministry. You will also find easy downloads of my resume, philosophy of ministry, and doctrinal statement. For easy reference, I have also added a link to this new site in the sidebar of this blog. You will find it listed under Sites of Interest

If you have a need in your church, please do not hesitate to contact me. I would love to talk with you about the new chapter God is beginning in your life and ministry!

Satisfied with Christ

2009-03-09T15:32:00.000-07:00

How satisfied with Christ are you? We live in a culture that tells us the end goal in life is the accumulation of stuff. We live in a relentless pursuit of more; more money, more things, more friends, more pleasure, and the list goes on.

I was challenged recently with a John Piper quote I came across while reading Francis Chan's book, Crazy Love. In asking, how in love with Christ are we, he shared the following quote.

The critical question for our generation - and for every generation - is this: If you could have heaven, with no sickness, and with all the friends you ever had on earth, and all the food you ever liked, and all the leisure activities you ever enjoyed, and all the natural beauties you ever saw, all the physical pleasures you ever tasted, and no human conflict or any natural disasters, could you be satisfied with heaven, if Christ was not there?

When we are in love, everything in life changes. It changes the way we view our stuff, our relationships, and our priorities.

May we love Christ in a way that causes everything else in life to pale in comparison to knowing and loving Him.

The Love of God

2009-03-03T19:50:00.000-08:00

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 is arguably the most well known verse of scripture. One would be hard pressed to find someone unfamiliar with it. In all our familiarity with it, I wonder, how often do we just sit and marvel at it's truth.

Take a moment and watch this video of Francis Chan sharing "The Awe Factor of God."

To be loved by such an awesome, big, and powerful God is simply incredible to me! May we remain in awe of His awesome love for us. May we love Him in return, in a manner that He deserves

And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:17-19.

I Passed!

2009-02-26T09:02:00.000-08:00

I have been asked many times through out the years why I have given myself to working with teenagers. I have always had a pretty impressive list to share that confirms my calling. I now have one more reason!

I passed the teenage audio test! There are actually frequencies that most people over the age of 25 are unable to hear, and I am happy to report ... I can!

Created by Train Horns

How about you? Did you pass? Let me know!

HT to Adam McLane

We're All In This Together

2009-02-21T19:06:00.001-08:00

This is the first year in many that I have not participated in the 30 Hour Famine. It is a movement that I so believe in, and am thrilled to see the students I leave behind continue to embrace. If you know a student participating this year, give. Your participation through your giving will have a profound effect on many.

If there is one thing I have learned through World Vision's 30 Hour Famine, it's that we as God's Church, particularly in America, need to realize that God desires, and expects, us to responds to the needs of the world. For it is in fact the purest form of worship. When asked what worship is, the average American church goer will answer, singing. Singing is only but one very small element of worship. Bigger than singing, is responding to the cry of the needy, the suffering, and the broken in our world (James 1:27, Matthew 25:31-49, Romans 12:1).

I so appreciate what Hillsong United will be releasing this year. Were All in This Together, a feature-length documentary, will illustrate the inseparable union of worship and justice - aimed at inspiring people to see injustice, think creatively and act in response.

Watch this teaser and let it move you closer into the heart of God.

May we never forget ... we are in this together.

For more see i-heart.org.

Surprised By God

2009-02-17T12:09:00.000-08:00

God is a God of surprises, and a God of blessing. I often stand amazed at how He works in my life. There have been a few occasions in my life though in which God has really taken it up a notch and just completely blown me away, by the way He demonstrates His love and care for me. Here and here are examples of two such occasions. Today He did it again!

After enjoying the blessing of a great conversation over coffee with my friend Steve, I came into the office and read my email. In doing so, I opened an email that absolutely left me astounded and speechless. What follows is an email that was sent to the general email address for our church from a lady I have never met, and who lives thousands of miles from me.

I woke up this morning after having a dream that I couldn't shake. The name Brian and a last name that I couldn't quite make out yet appeared on the hat of a young man with a beard and mustache. As I was waking the last name started to become clearer to me. I thought maybe it was someone from my church that the Lord wanted me to pray for, but there is no one from our church by that name. The heaviness of my heart was so great that I decided to google the name Brian Oberly or Eberly, the last name still wasn't perfectly clear.

When I clicked on the site and saw a man standing with his arms wide open looking to heaven, I was compelled to read on.I only had to read a few sentences and I knew in my heart that this had to be Him. Clearly it wasn't Brian wearing the hat in my dream but the young man that was, is someone that we are supposed to pray for as well as Brian.

In my dream the young man with the beard was very torn about a separation that was taking place in his life, it seemed to be a marriage but I wasn't sure. After reading the site I was very certain that these are people that we are to be praying for.

I am writing to you to let you know that God loves you so much that he gave someone half way across the country a dream to pray for you and the people in your life. And as I read about you leaving and watched the video my heart was so burdened, that I cried. Just know that we are praying for you.

Blessings

I stand amazed! The "young man" with the beard and mustache, wearing the hat, is my good friend and ministry partner Aaron. My departure from Grace Point has been difficult on so many levels, but perhaps one of the hardest is the parting of ways with Aaron. It has been a struggle that both he and I have had to wrestle through. To know that God laid it on the heart of a perfect stranger to pray for the two of us, is incredible to us both!

While I am surprised by God in this, I know I shouldn't be. He is God. I love the way He works. I love that He loves me.

Looking Back ... Looking Forward

2009-02-15T14:49:00.000-08:00

Today concluded nearly 11 years of ministry at Grace Point. We were honored this afternoon with a wonderful time of appreciation and love over a great lunch. What a blast it was reminiscing over all the years of great ministry. What a wonderful community of people to serve with; truly family.

Good friend and long time partner in ministry, Aaron Geist, produced this great video looking back over the years.

As we move forward, we now look forward. We look forward to what God has in store for us next, and are anxious for this next chapter in our lives to unfold. Stay tuned!

Letting Go

2009-02-02T08:51:00.000-08:00

Letting go of what I hold so dear, has never been an easy thing for me. Yesterday my departure from Grace Point Community Church was announced. It was difficult, and it was painful. To leave a community of people that you have shared life with and love so much, is a task that without God to lean on, would seem unbearable. It for me is a step of faith and a step of trust.

It is one thing to teach, preach, and sing about living a life of faith. It's another matter when God asks of you to step forward and and walk in it. As I feel God prying my fingers from all that I hold so close to my heart, I find myself asking why, but in the process, know that He holds the answer. I appreciate the words of Oswald Chambers, "Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One Who is leading." I love my God, and in this process desire to know Him more than ever before.

As I now let go of the familiar, the things I love and hold dear, I must learn to let go of my pain and my fear as I venture into uncharted territory. God has never let me down. God has always surprised me with His amazing blessings and opportunities. I know He will do it once again.

Jeremy Camp's "Letting Go" is a song that resonates loudly with me right now.

To my family at Grace Point, know that it has been nothing but a pleasure and honor to share life and ministry with you. You are loved and close to my heart, and always will be.

Unique Churches

2009-01-30T07:24:00.000-08:00

When asked about the Church, the first thing that often comes to people's minds is what sits on the corner down the street ... a building. We know though that the Church is not a building. It's not a place. It is people. Church is not something we are called to go to, but rather what we are called to be. It is the community of people that have given their lives to following the head of the Church, Jesus Christ.

That being said, I recently came across a fascinating series on Ten Of The World's Most Unique Churches, church buildings that is. What follows are ten remarkable feats of architecture. A true testament to the creativity of man.

May we as God's Church be as attractive and unique as the buildings that follow.

Harajuku: Japanese Futuristic Church

This futuristic protestant church is located in Tokyo and it was first unveiled by the design firm of Ciel Rouge Creation in 2005. The ceiling is specially made to reverberate natural sound for 2 seconds to provide a unique listening experience for worshipers and tourists.

Saint Basil's Cathedral: The Red Square 's Colorful Church

(photo: Lst1984)

The St. Basil's Cathedral is located on the Red Square in Moscow , Russia . A Russian Orthodox church, the Cathedral sports a series of colorful bulbous domes that taper to a point, aptly named onion domes, that are part of Moscow's Kremlin skyline.

The cathedral was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible to commemorate the capture of the Khanate of Kazan. In 1588 Tsar Fedor Ivanovich had a chapel added on the eastern side above the grave of Basil Fool for Christ, a Russian Orthodox saint after whom the cathedral was popularly named.

Hallgrímskirkja: Iceland 's Most Amazing Church

(photo: Stuck in Customs)

The Hallgrímskirkja (literally, the church of Hallgrímur ) is a Lutheran parish church located in Reykjavík , Iceland . At 74.5 metres (244 ft), it is the fourth tallest architectural structure in Iceland . The church is named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Pétursson (1614 to 1674), author of the Passion Hymns. State Architect Guðjón Samúelsson's design of the church was commissioned in 1937; it took 38 years to build it.

Temppeliaukio Kirkko: The Rock Church

The Temppeliaukio Kirkko ( Rock Church ) is a thrilling work of modern architecture in Helsinki. Completed in 1952, it is built entirely underground and has a ceiling made of copper wire. It was designed by architect brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen and completed in 1969. They chose a rocky outcrop rising about 40 feet above street level, and blasted out the walls from the inside. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Helsinki and frequently full of visitors.

Cathedral of Brasília: The Modern Church of architect Oscar Niemeyer

The Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida in the capital of Brazil is an expression of the architect Oscar Niemeyer. This concrete-framed hyperboloid structure, seems with its glass roof to be reaching up, open, to heaven. On 31 May 1970, the Cathedral's structure was finished, and only the 70 m diameter of the circular area were visible. Niemeyer's project of Cathedral of Brasília is based in the hyperboloid of revolution which sections are asymmetric. The hyperboloid structure itself is a result of 16 identical assembled concrete columns. These columns, having hyperbolic section and weighing 90 t, represent two hands moving upwards to heaven. The Cathedral was dedicated on 31 May 1970.

Borgund Church: Best Preserved Stave Church

The Borgund Stave Church in Lærdal is the best preserved of Norway 's 28 extant stave churches. This wooden church, probably built in the end of the 12th century, has not changed structure or had a major reconstruction since the date it was built. The church is also featured as a Wonder for the Viking civilization in the video game Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings.

Las Lajas Cathedral: A Gothic Church Worthy of a Fairy Tale

(photo: Jungle_Boy)

The Las Lajas Cathedral is located in southern Colombia and built in 1916 inside the canyon of the Guaitara River . According to the legend, this was the place where an Indian woman named María Mueses de Quiñones was carrying her deaf-mute daughter Rosa on her back near Las Lajas ("The Rocks"). Weary of the climb, the María sat down on a rock when Rosa spoke (for the first time) about an apparition in a cave.

Later on, a mysterious painting of the Virgin Mary carrying a baby was discovered on the wall of the cave. Supposedly, studies of the painting showed no proof of paint or pigments on the rock - instead, when a core sample was taken, it was found that the colors were impregnated in the rock itself to a depth of several feet. Whether true or not, the legend spurred the building of this amazing church.

St. Joseph Church: Known for its Thirteen Gold Domed Roof

The St. Joseph The Betrothed is an Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church in Chicago . Built in 1956, it is most known for its ultra-modern thirteen gold domed roof symbolizing the twelve apostles and Jesus Christ as the largest center dome. The interior of the church is completely adorned with Byzantine style icons (frescoes). Unfortunately the iconographer was deported back to his homeland before he was able to write the names of all the saints as prescribed by iconographic traditions.

Ružica Church: Where Chandeliers are made of Bullet Shells

Located over the Kalemegdan Fortress in Belgrade, Serbia, the Ružica Church is a small chapel decorated with... with trench art! Its chandeliers are entirely made of spent bullet casing, swords, and cannon parts.

The space the church now occupies was used by the Turks as gunpowder storage for over 100 years and it had to be largely rebuilt in 1920 after WWI. Though damaged by bombings there was an upshot to the terrible carnage of The Great War. While fighting alongside England and the US , Serbian soldiers on the Thessaloniki front took the time to put together these amazing chandeliers. It is one of the world's finest examples of trench art.

Chapel of St-Gildas: Built into the base of a bare rocky cliff

The Chapel of St-Gildas sits upon the bank of the Canal du Blavet in Brittany, France. Built like a stone barn into the base of a bare rocky cliff, this was once a holy place of the Druids. Gildas appears to have travelled widely throughout the Celtic world of Corwall, Wales , Ireland and Scotland . He arrived in Brittany in about AD 540 and is said to have preached Christianity to the people from a rough pulpit, now contained within the chapel.

How Much Do You Hate People?

2009-01-15T09:40:00.000-08:00

How's that for a title to get your attention? Now that I have it, check out this video and be challenged by a man who not only does not love God, but does not even believe in him.

Listen as Penn of Penn & Teller shares his thoughts on how anyone who believes in God, heaven, and hell, should be sharing (proselytizing) their faith with the world around them. Very thought provoking. Very challenging!

What do you think?

Life of Passion

2009-01-13T08:46:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking a lot about my life lately. Perhaps because it's that time of year that people are making resolutions to make some kind of change in their life. I am not one to normally make New Year's Resolutions. Not because I am uninterested in change, or out of fear I will break that which I resolve to change. I think it is more a function of wanting to be flexible enough to make change when change is needed. Nonetheless, I have been thinking about my life, and more precisely the things I am passionate about.

Last Friday I returned from a great two week vacation. It was a welcomed time of catching my breath and pulling away from the busy routine of life. The second half of our time was spent in one of our favorite locations, San Clemente. San Clemente is a great beach town about an hour north of San Diego. We spent most of our time on the beach, soaking in as much sun as we possibly could. San Clemente is all about the beach and all about surfing. Surfing is big there.

As one who grew up in Southern California, I am drawn to the the whole beach/surf scene. I love it! I love the laid back approach to life. I love the sun, the sand, the surf, and what I call the "flip flop lifestyle." As I observed the surfers this last week, I quickly picked up on something that characterizes most all of them - passion. If there was ever a culture of people committed to what they love, it is them. I have always considered myself a fair weather surfer. If I am going to head out into the water, it's going to need to be a warm sunny day with nice water temps. For those committed to surfing, that is far from their approach.

For those that surf, being in the water is of top priority. It comes before just about anything else in life. As I watched them paddle out early each morning, it was obvious. As much as I love the beach and all that comes with it, it is not my passion. I want my life to be characterized as one passionate for the things that are close to the heart of God. As I watched the surfers, I was forced to ask myself, do I have that amount of passion in my life.

As I continued in my reflection, the following words of Christ came to mind...

"Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these." Mark 12:29-31

I want that to be the passion of my life. I want to live a life characterized by my love of God, and love for the world around me; the kind of love that takes everything I got. I can't help but think what life would be like if that was truly the passion of God's people.

My ultimate goal in ministry is to see those God has entrusted to me, loving Him with everything they've got. For when we do that, the second greatest command comes naturally. It's my prayer this year that that is what is seen in me - a life of passion.

How about you? Where do your passions lie? A good question for us to continually keep in front of us.

Compassion Highlights

2008-12-31T14:09:00.000-08:00

2008 was a great year for Compassion International. They have just released a few of their highlights.

• We registered our 1 millionth child in Compassion's Child Sponsorship Program.
• More than 154,000 children in our programs invited Jesus to be their Savior.
• Compassion began work in Togo, our 25th country.
• Thousands of families threatened by the global food crisis have received lifesaving food, thanks to generous donations from our sponsors and donors.

I couldn't be more proud to be partnered with such a great ministry. Have you sponsored a child yet? Perhaps 2009 is your year!

The Good News of Christmas

2008-12-24T10:49:00.000-08:00

Santa may be checking his list to see who's been naughty or nice, but the good news of Christ is that He has no list!

"whoever comes to me I will never drive away." John 6:37.

Jesus is, the Good News of Christmas.

John Piper says it well.

May you enjoy and celebrate the Christ of Christmas!

Another Day in The Office

2008-12-22T10:05:00.000-08:00

For the last couple of years Aaron and I have put together a year end video greeting for our students. We could not feel more blessed to work with such an awesome group of students and staff.

I now present the 2008 year end greeting ... "Another Day in The Office."

If you have trouble viewing video, click here for a lower quality version.

Partnering with Parents

2008-12-15T20:56:00.000-08:00

For the last 23 years I have given my life to ministering to students. In my estimation there is no greater and more important age group that one can invest in. In my time, God has shown me and taught me much. Perhaps the most important of which is the value of partnering with parents.

I was recently asked by Tim Schmoyer of Life in Student Ministry to write an article on the importance of partnering with parents. It is now published.

Instead of posting the article here, why don't you head on over to Life in Student Ministry to read it.

I welcome your thoughts and comments.

Snow Day

2008-12-14T17:00:00.001-08:00

Sometimes life just gets going too fast. This has been a very busy and hectic season of life for our family. Just the other day we were commenting on how we wish life would slow down a bit. Today it happened.

Today it snowed and brought everything to a halt. I love how God does that!

The weather men have been predicting a major snow this weekend. We actually expected to wake up to it this morning. No such luck. The rush of our lives continued as we hurried out the door to church, with only a light rain coming down. Within 20 minutes of arriving at church the snow began to fall. It quickly became apparent we were going to have to cancel services.

We were back home by 9:30 and settled into a wonderful snow day! Here is how it looked!

Thanks God!

The Boy In The Striped Pajamas

2008-12-05T22:04:00.000-08:00

To night I saw an amazing movie. A movie that both depicts the depravity of man and the innocence of childhood. It was a movie that made me think all the more about Jesus' words, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

The movie, "The Boy In The Striped Pajamas" is a story of innocent friendship. A friendship between two, who according to the adult world, should have been enemies. It was indeed a picture of the Kingdom of God as lived out by two young boys, who had not yet been tarnished by the lies of the enemy.

As the movie ended the theater was silent, and many were in tears. It is my hope that this movie will move peoples hearts. That people will be moved to love and accept others in the manner in which we are called to.

Taking Back Christmas

2008-12-01T12:55:00.001-08:00

Last Christmas I had a heart change. It was last year that I made the decision to make Christmas more about Christ and less about me. On the second week of advent last year, I preached a messages entitled "What Do You Want For Christmas." Hear it here or on iTunes. In my message I shared what our family had decided to do with Christmas, and challenged others to do likewise. I stated my belief that since Christmas is indeed the birthday day of Christ, that we ought to bring gifts to Him, and make it more about Him, and less about us.

In the spirit of Matthew 25, my family had a great time buying gifts for Christ from the World Vision Gift Catalog. For weeks after my message I was blessed by hearing story after story from families within our church that decided to do the same thing. Each person, as they told me their story, spoke of how it made their Christmas celebration more meaningful than ever before.

This year I am excited that our church has decided to take it up yet another notch by participating in the Advent Conspiracy. I love the spirit of the Advent Conspiracy... making Christmas a world-changing event once again. Two thousand and eight years ago Christmas changed the world. This year it can do it again!

10.6 billion dollars were spent on Black Friday this year. Despite the downturn in the economy, that is a 3% increase over last year! Imagine what that 10.6 billion could do, if spent on the cause of Christ. This video will give you a pretty good idea.

If you are a part of Grace Point, be sure to participate fully. You will be blessed beyond what you can imagine. If you are not a part of our church family, I challenge you to make Christmas more about Christ this year, and less about you. Join the conspiracy!

Here is how our advent season will be looking this year. Join us in taking back Christmas!

Worship Fully - 11/30/08

Entering the story of advent means entering this season with an overwhelming passion to worship Jesus to the fullest.

Spend Less - 12/7/08

We're asking people to consider spending less this Christmas (maybe buying on less gift). It sounds insignificant, yet many who have taken this small sacrifice have experienced something that is nothing less than a miracle: They have been more available to celebrate Christ during the advent season.

Give More - 12/14/08

God's gift to us was a relationship built on love. So it's no wonder why we're drawn to the idea that Christmas should be a time to love our friends and family in the most memorable ways possible.

Love All - 12/21/08

When Jesus loved, He loved in ways never imagined before. Though rich, He became poor to love the poor, the forgotten, the overlooked and the sick. He played to the margins. By spending less at Christmas we have the opportunity to join Him in giving resources to those who need help the most.

Thanks Living

2008-11-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” - U.S. President John F. Kennedy

May our giving of thanks be more than words and thoughts, but may it translate into our everyday lives. May our lives be living testaments to the great things God has done, and continues to do. May we be overflowing with thankfulness.

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Colossians 2:6-7

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Kingdom Coming

2008-11-24T16:08:00.000-08:00

You ready for more free music? Shaun Groves is offering it up! Shaun Groves is offering a free download of his song "Kingdom Coming" with the hope that it will inspire and challenge people to sponsor a child through Compassion International.

Til the sword is spared
And the bread is shared
‘Til the dying’s done
Let your kingdom come
‘Til the rich ones give
And the poor ones live
‘Til the weak are strong
Let your kingdom come

Shaun Groves, "Kingdom Coming"