http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353 Garth is the lead pastor at Heritage Park Alliance Church Radiant WebTools http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=34453 34453 Sun, 20 May 2012 16:09:00 +0000 Monday, MondaySo good to me.Monday, MondayIt was all I hoped it would be.I love Monday mornings because of all the possibilities that stand to attention after the weekend is over. Some people dread going to work Monday morning, but I can't wait to dive back in and do what I do. I have a great team to work with and a Great Boss to work for. What more could I ask? Monday, MondaySo good to me.Monday, MondayIt was all I hoped it would be.I love Monday mornings because of all the possibilities that stand to attention after the weekend is over. Some people dread going to work Monday morning, but I can't wait to dive back in and do what I do. I have a great team to work with and a Great Boss to work for. What more could I ask? http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=34291 34291 Mon, 14 May 2012 07:22:00 +0000 A few years ago, ChristianityToday.com asked readers to share how much their mothers and grandmothers meant to them. In response, Bill Fix, of Taylor, Michigan, shared a moving testimony about his mother's faithful witness: [Mom] grew up around the coal mines where her daddy worked, deep in the mountainous regions of Virginia. She came from a large, poverty-stricken family, so she learned how to be content with little. Dad and Mom were poor by the world's standards, but as a kid growing up, I did not know it. We were rich in so many other ways. Dad had two—sometimes three—jobs, so Mom could stay home and be a full-time mommy to her five children. She hummed softly as she went about her work. It was as if she had blocked all the bad news out and was contemplating what was good and right and lovely. She was always living in the present, fondly reflecting [on] the past, and looking forward to the future. She found that in the present there was love, in the past there was joy, and in the future there was hope. I will not forget the day the doctors told us that Mom had terminal cancer. I was devastated by [the] news. Things did not seem to change for Mom, though. Whenever I visited her, she was busy cooking or baking, doing a load of clothes, or sewing or working on something else. As she worked, she hummed a tune that seemed so beautiful to me. [When I spoke with her about the cancer, she was calm.] She told me that this was not really her home. She said she had a home in heaven and that she would be going there soon. She told me not to worry, that she would be all right. Although that brought tears to my eyes, she continued to hum. I saw a beauty in my mother that I had never seen before. In her affliction she had become radiant. When she died, she was 59-years-old. I have replayed her words many times: 'This is not my home. I have a home in heaven. I'll be all right.' She is at her eternal home today. Since that time I have become a pastor of a church where I have had an opportunity to see many people, like Mom, go to another home. As I minister to many of them, I am reminded of her—afflicted, yet radiant. A few years ago, ChristianityToday.com asked readers to share how much their mothers and grandmothers meant to them. In response, Bill Fix, of Taylor, Michigan, shared a moving testimony about his mother's faithful witness: [Mom] grew up around the coal mines where her daddy worked, deep in the mountainous regions of Virginia. She came from a large, poverty-stricken family, so she learned how to be content with little. Dad and Mom were poor by the world's standards, but as a kid growing up, I did not know it. We were rich in so many other ways. Dad had two—sometimes three—jobs, so Mom could stay home and be a full-time mommy to her five children. She hummed softly as she went about her work. It was as if she had blocked all the bad news out and was contemplating what was good and right and lovely. She was always living in the present, fondly reflecting [on] the past, and looking forward to the future. She found that in the present there was love, in the past there was joy, and in the future there was hope. I will not forget the day the doctors told us that Mom had terminal cancer. I was devastated by [the] news. Things did not seem to change for Mom, though. Whenever I visited her, she was busy cooking or baking, doing a load of clothes, or sewing or working on something else. As she worked, she hummed a tune that seemed so beautiful to me. [When I spoke with her about the cancer, she was calm.] She told me that this was not really her home. She said she had a home in heaven and that she would be going there soon. She told me not to worry, that she would be all right. Although that brought tears to my eyes, she continued to hum. I saw a beauty in my mother that I had never seen before. In her affliction she had become radiant. When she died, she was 59-years-old. I have replayed her words many times: 'This is not my home. I have a home in heaven. I'll be all right.' She is at her eternal home today. Since that time I have become a pastor of a church where I have had an opportunity to see many people, like Mom, go to another home. As I minister to many of them, I am reminded of her—afflicted, yet radiant. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=34108 34108 Fri, 11 May 2012 03:00:00 +0000 The comments that follow, by Pastor Mark Driscoll, remind me of the sermon this weekend!Who is he?Mark Driscoll is founding pastor of Mars Hill Church—a multi-site congregation with campuses in Washington, California, Oregon, and New Mexico. Mark was named one of the '25 Most Influential Pastors of the Past 25 Years' by Preaching magazine, and more than a million of his sermons are downloaded from iTunes each year. The author or co-author of over a dozen books, Mark recently co-wrote Real Marriage with his wife, Grace.What he Said … 'Enduring and Endearing'Sociologist John Gottman said in The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: 'Happy marriages are based on a deep friendship. By this I mean a mutual respect for and enjoyment of each other's company …. Friendship fuels the flames of romance because it offers the best protection against feeling adversarial toward your spouse.'Husbands and wives who want their marriages to be enduring and endearing must be friends.Grace and I are friends. Since meeting, we've been friends. By God's grace, until our season of life under the sun is done, we will be friends. At times our friendship has been strained, but our friendship [helped us work out our difficulties]. Our first dates were not extravagant because we were broke teenagers, but they were fun because we just liked to hang out together. Our first date included a hamburger, a walk along the Seattle waterfront, and a long chat on the beach by a fire. We did not spend much money, but we each made a friend. The comments that follow, by Pastor Mark Driscoll, remind me of the sermon this weekend!Who is he?Mark Driscoll is founding pastor of Mars Hill Church—a multi-site congregation with campuses in Washington, California, Oregon, and New Mexico. Mark was named one of the '25 Most Influential Pastors of the Past 25 Years' by Preaching magazine, and more than a million of his sermons are downloaded from iTunes each year. The author or co-author of over a dozen books, Mark recently co-wrote Real Marriage with his wife, Grace.What he Said … 'Enduring and Endearing'Sociologist John Gottman said in The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: 'Happy marriages are based on a deep friendship. By this I mean a mutual respect for and enjoyment of each other's company …. Friendship fuels the flames of romance because it offers the best protection against feeling adversarial toward your spouse.'Husbands and wives who want their marriages to be enduring and endearing must be friends.Grace and I are friends. Since meeting, we've been friends. By God's grace, until our season of life under the sun is done, we will be friends. At times our friendship has been strained, but our friendship [helped us work out our difficulties]. Our first dates were not extravagant because we were broke teenagers, but they were fun because we just liked to hang out together. Our first date included a hamburger, a walk along the Seattle waterfront, and a long chat on the beach by a fire. We did not spend much money, but we each made a friend. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=34096 34096 Wed, 9 May 2012 03:00:00 +0000 The cafe is now serving lattes! Yeah! Our new staff member arrived! Yeah! Joshua spent the day worshipping with us, and we are happy to have him here! Yeah! I witnessed several groups of people praying together spontaneously (yeah!), and that pumps me up. We all need friends we can depend on, especially when life does not go as planned. The 'young adults' in our church family are the best. I love them, and I love how they love each other and our church. I am inspired and challenged by so many of them. Love is not a Christmas feeling that bubbles to the surface when circumstances are conducive; it is a decision to continually seek the good of others. Its roots are not in humanism or in Hollywood but in heaven. We aren't to love others on the basis of their inherent goodness or external attractiveness, but on the basis of the example Jesus set for us. The worship team hit it out of the park today! The vocals were sweet! Thanks Jen, Sheri, and Brendan! Yes, yes! It WAS my birthday today, and someone (who should remain anonymous for their own personal protection!!!) texted that information to as many people as she could! Seriously - thank you for all the wonderful birthday wishes! Right now we have so many new people checking out the church. We need to roll out the red carpet and make EVERYONE feel loved and needed! Thanks for the latte, Phil! You bless me with your gift of friendship. The cafe is now serving lattes! Yeah! Our new staff member arrived! Yeah! Joshua spent the day worshipping with us, and we are happy to have him here! Yeah! I witnessed several groups of people praying together spontaneously (yeah!), and that pumps me up. We all need friends we can depend on, especially when life does not go as planned. The 'young adults' in our church family are the best. I love them, and I love how they love each other and our church. I am inspired and challenged by so many of them. Love is not a Christmas feeling that bubbles to the surface when circumstances are conducive; it is a decision to continually seek the good of others. Its roots are not in humanism or in Hollywood but in heaven. We aren't to love others on the basis of their inherent goodness or external attractiveness, but on the basis of the example Jesus set for us. The worship team hit it out of the park today! The vocals were sweet! Thanks Jen, Sheri, and Brendan! Yes, yes! It WAS my birthday today, and someone (who should remain anonymous for their own personal protection!!!) texted that information to as many people as she could! Seriously - thank you for all the wonderful birthday wishes! Right now we have so many new people checking out the church. We need to roll out the red carpet and make EVERYONE feel loved and needed! Thanks for the latte, Phil! You bless me with your gift of friendship. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=34098 34098 Sun, 6 May 2012 16:33:00 +0000 Let's not complain about what we can change.'Do everything without complaining or arguing...' Philippians 2:14 Let's not complain about what we can change.'Do everything without complaining or arguing...' Philippians 2:14 http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33978 33978 Wed, 2 May 2012 06:11:00 +0000 A British medical doctor named Ishani Kar-Purkayastha shared a story about his interaction with Doris, an 82-year-old hospital patient. Two days before Christmas, Doris seemed healthy and ready for discharge. But for some reason she kept complaining about inexplicable health issues. Dr. Kar-Purkayastha wrote: 'Yesterday it was her arm that was hurting, before that her hip. Truth is, Doris is an incredibly healthy 82-year-old, and we can't find anything. I have no doubt that it will be the same today.' When the X-rays came back normal, he told Doris that he would have to stick to the plan of sending her home. Doris looked down at the floor and quietly said, 'I don't want to go home …. It's just that I'm all alone and there are so many hours in the day.' Then after a long pause, she sighed and asked, 'Doctor, can you give me a cure for loneliness?' Dr. Kar-Purkayastha reflected on this incident: I wish I could say yes. I wish I could prescribe her some antidepressants and be satisfied that I had done my best, but the truth is she's not clinically depressed. It's just that she has been left behind by a world that no longer revolves around her, not even the littlest bit. There are thousands like her, men and women … for whom time stands empty as they wait in homes full of silence …. They are no longer coveted by a society addicted to youth …. [Doris] is alone, and it brings home the truth of this epidemic that we have on our hands—an epidemic of loneliness …. The most difficult part is that I don't know how to solve this, although I wish I could. For now, I simply retract my diagnoses. Sheepishly, I insist that Doris spends her Christmas this year on the ward, and I can see her mood lift. But as I steel myself for the inevitable influx of unwanted grandparents whom I know will arrive, I cannot help but wonder how it is that things could have gone so badly wrong. Dr. Ishani Kar-Purkayastha, 'An Epidemic of Loneliness,' The Lancelet (12-18-10) A British medical doctor named Ishani Kar-Purkayastha shared a story about his interaction with Doris, an 82-year-old hospital patient. Two days before Christmas, Doris seemed healthy and ready for discharge. But for some reason she kept complaining about inexplicable health issues. Dr. Kar-Purkayastha wrote: 'Yesterday it was her arm that was hurting, before that her hip. Truth is, Doris is an incredibly healthy 82-year-old, and we can't find anything. I have no doubt that it will be the same today.' When the X-rays came back normal, he told Doris that he would have to stick to the plan of sending her home. Doris looked down at the floor and quietly said, 'I don't want to go home …. It's just that I'm all alone and there are so many hours in the day.' Then after a long pause, she sighed and asked, 'Doctor, can you give me a cure for loneliness?' Dr. Kar-Purkayastha reflected on this incident: I wish I could say yes. I wish I could prescribe her some antidepressants and be satisfied that I had done my best, but the truth is she's not clinically depressed. It's just that she has been left behind by a world that no longer revolves around her, not even the littlest bit. There are thousands like her, men and women … for whom time stands empty as they wait in homes full of silence …. They are no longer coveted by a society addicted to youth …. [Doris] is alone, and it brings home the truth of this epidemic that we have on our hands—an epidemic of loneliness …. The most difficult part is that I don't know how to solve this, although I wish I could. For now, I simply retract my diagnoses. Sheepishly, I insist that Doris spends her Christmas this year on the ward, and I can see her mood lift. But as I steel myself for the inevitable influx of unwanted grandparents whom I know will arrive, I cannot help but wonder how it is that things could have gone so badly wrong. Dr. Ishani Kar-Purkayastha, 'An Epidemic of Loneliness,' The Lancelet (12-18-10) http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33875 33875 Mon, 30 Apr 2012 03:00:00 +0000 Dorrie Aber Noyek from Florida has been volunteering for 38 years at the Memorial Regional Hospital in Florida. And according to one newspaper article, 'There are no signs of slowing down—not even on this, her 105th birthday.' Dorrie said, 'I feel I want to give back. I think I'm very fortunate, very lucky, very blessed.' The article doesn't mention anything about her faith, but every believer can certainly be challenged by her desire to express gratitude to God through acts of service.What are YOU doing to serve Jesus and his church? Dorrie Aber Noyek from Florida has been volunteering for 38 years at the Memorial Regional Hospital in Florida. And according to one newspaper article, 'There are no signs of slowing down—not even on this, her 105th birthday.' Dorrie said, 'I feel I want to give back. I think I'm very fortunate, very lucky, very blessed.' The article doesn't mention anything about her faith, but every believer can certainly be challenged by her desire to express gratitude to God through acts of service.What are YOU doing to serve Jesus and his church? http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33874 33874 Sat, 28 Apr 2012 12:12:00 +0000 You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. - Psalm 16:11 ESVThere is no place I'd rather be than in the presence of my Jesus. There I find joy and peace, comfort and counsel. But the pace of life and the weight of responsibility often works against my ambition to spend time in His presence. I don't always make the right choice, but today I set everything else aside to be with him. I was not disappointed. I'm never disappointed when I make that choice. He is always waiting for me, ready to receive me and share his life with me.Jesus wants us to keep our eyes on him, not only for direction but also for empowerment. He never asks me to do something without equipping me with insight and power for the task. That's why following, believing, and obeying is so important. More is not necessary better. I choose him....In order to know God's will we must spend time with him. He promises to show us the path of life (Ps. 16:11). We discern his ways in his presence, waiting upon the Lord. You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. - Psalm 16:11 ESVThere is no place I'd rather be than in the presence of my Jesus. There I find joy and peace, comfort and counsel. But the pace of life and the weight of responsibility often works against my ambition to spend time in His presence. I don't always make the right choice, but today I set everything else aside to be with him. I was not disappointed. I'm never disappointed when I make that choice. He is always waiting for me, ready to receive me and share his life with me.Jesus wants us to keep our eyes on him, not only for direction but also for empowerment. He never asks me to do something without equipping me with insight and power for the task. That's why following, believing, and obeying is so important. More is not necessary better. I choose him....In order to know God's will we must spend time with him. He promises to show us the path of life (Ps. 16:11). We discern his ways in his presence, waiting upon the Lord. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33727 33727 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:25:00 +0000 This little piece comes from Our Daily Bread. It spoke to me!When Jesus looked at him, He said, '. . . you shall be called Cephas' (which is translated, A Stone). —John 1:42 In the article 'Leading by Naming,' Mark Labberton wrote about the power of a name. He said: 'I can still feel the impact of a musical friend who one day called me 'musical.' No one had ever called me that. I didn't really play an instrument. I was no soloist. Yet . . . I instantly felt known and loved. . . . [He] noticed, validated, and appreciated something deeply true about me.' Perhaps this is what Simon felt when Jesus renamed him. After Andrew was convinced that Jesus was the Messiah, he immediately found his brother Simon and brought him to Jesus (John 1:41-42). Jesus peered into his soul and validated and appreciated something deeply true about Simon. Yes, Jesus saw the failure and impetuous nature that would get him into trouble. But more than that He saw the potential of Simon to become a leader in the church. Jesus named him Cephas—Aramaic for Peter—a rock (John 1:42; see Matt. 16:18). And so it is with us. God sees our pride, anger, and lack of love for others, but He also knows who we are in Christ. He calls us justified and reconciled (Rom. 5:9-10); forgiven, holy, and beloved (Col. 2:13; 3:12); chosen and faithful (Rev. 17:14). Remember how God sees you and seek to let that define who you are. I am so glad for the day that I cameSeeking relief for my soul;Jesus the Savior gave me my new name;Now by His grace I'm made whole. —Hess This little piece comes from Our Daily Bread. It spoke to me!When Jesus looked at him, He said, '. . . you shall be called Cephas' (which is translated, A Stone). —John 1:42 In the article 'Leading by Naming,' Mark Labberton wrote about the power of a name. He said: 'I can still feel the impact of a musical friend who one day called me 'musical.' No one had ever called me that. I didn't really play an instrument. I was no soloist. Yet . . . I instantly felt known and loved. . . . [He] noticed, validated, and appreciated something deeply true about me.' Perhaps this is what Simon felt when Jesus renamed him. After Andrew was convinced that Jesus was the Messiah, he immediately found his brother Simon and brought him to Jesus (John 1:41-42). Jesus peered into his soul and validated and appreciated something deeply true about Simon. Yes, Jesus saw the failure and impetuous nature that would get him into trouble. But more than that He saw the potential of Simon to become a leader in the church. Jesus named him Cephas—Aramaic for Peter—a rock (John 1:42; see Matt. 16:18). And so it is with us. God sees our pride, anger, and lack of love for others, but He also knows who we are in Christ. He calls us justified and reconciled (Rom. 5:9-10); forgiven, holy, and beloved (Col. 2:13; 3:12); chosen and faithful (Rev. 17:14). Remember how God sees you and seek to let that define who you are. I am so glad for the day that I cameSeeking relief for my soul;Jesus the Savior gave me my new name;Now by His grace I'm made whole. —Hess http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33670 33670 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:49:00 +0000 Originally posted by Thom Rainer, but it's so good that I had to repost here! Besides it contains echoes of last Sunday morning when I spoke about 'avoiding negative people.' You'll see what I mean when you read it... ~ Garth I often turn to Brad Waggoner for leadership advice and wisdom. He serves as executive vice president of LifeWay and, previously, as dean of a graduate school of leadership. He provides me a gentle reminder from time to time on, to use his words, 'the power of the negative.' Indeed I often have to remind myself of this leadership principle. Understanding the Principle The principle is simple but profound: Negative reinforcement has 20 times or more power than positive reinforcement. At first glance, a leader may conclude that speaking and leading negatively is the best path since it is so powerful. To the contrary, unless used wisely, negative words and leadership can demoralize, demotivate, and destroy because of its very power. While there is a place for negative leadership, it must be used with the greatest of care and discernment. Examples for All of Us We all experience the power of the negative, either as givers or recipients. See if you can identify with any of these examples: You speak or preach somewhere and you get twenty compliments and one criticism. Upon which one do you dwell? A husband in anger tells his wife that he is tired of her. Though he has given her over a dozen compliments that week, which one does she remember? A child receives accolades for her good grades that semester. But the dad, upon discovering the child has her first failing grade, tells her 'you won't amount to anything in life at the pace you are going.' Which of the father's words stick with the child for years if not a lifetime? One coworker points out problems in another coworker's area. Though the praises have been equal to the criticisms, which have the greatest power? A CEO who has provided mostly steady leadership for a few years has an anger meltdown in front of his direct reports. What facet of his leadership is remembered the most? A Time to Tear Down, A Time to Build Up The writer of Ecclesiastes tells us clearly that there are times to be negative and times to be positive (3:3). Indeed there are times for a prophetic voice, a corrective voice, and an admonishing voice. The problem is that the writer of Ecclesiastes does not give us specific instruction on timing and frequency. Many of us are tempted to exercise the power of the negative too frequently. When we are negative about some other person and event, we are able to look away from ourselves and our own weaknesses and failures. It's easier to the point the finger of accusation at someone other than ourselves. Further the power of the negative can be tempting because we often get attention when we do so. I can point to one example clearly on this blog. The article that has received the most views was a negative article I wrote on Jerry Sandusky and the Penn State child sex abuse scandal. I am convinced and convicted that the article was appropriate and timely. But I must ever keep in mind the power that negativity has. The Power of the Negative and Discernment The Apostle Paul said these words to a church 2,000 years ago, and they still apply to us today: 'Therefore encourage one another and build each other up as you are already doing' (1 Thessalonians 5:11, HCSB). There are indeed times when a prophetic or negative word is in order. There are moments in any leader's lives, whether a parent, pastor, or president, that the power of the negative should be exercised. But it should be exercised with wisdom and discernment. It would seem that the preponderance of our leadership should be one of building up and encouraging. Such leadership can change a family for the good. It can change an organization for the good. And it might just change the world for good. Originally posted by Thom Rainer, but it's so good that I had to repost here! Besides it contains echoes of last Sunday morning when I spoke about 'avoiding negative people.' You'll see what I mean when you read it... ~ Garth I often turn to Brad Waggoner for leadership advice and wisdom. He serves as executive vice president of LifeWay and, previously, as dean of a graduate school of leadership. He provides me a gentle reminder from time to time on, to use his words, 'the power of the negative.' Indeed I often have to remind myself of this leadership principle. Understanding the Principle The principle is simple but profound: Negative reinforcement has 20 times or more power than positive reinforcement. At first glance, a leader may conclude that speaking and leading negatively is the best path since it is so powerful. To the contrary, unless used wisely, negative words and leadership can demoralize, demotivate, and destroy because of its very power. While there is a place for negative leadership, it must be used with the greatest of care and discernment. Examples for All of Us We all experience the power of the negative, either as givers or recipients. See if you can identify with any of these examples: You speak or preach somewhere and you get twenty compliments and one criticism. Upon which one do you dwell? A husband in anger tells his wife that he is tired of her. Though he has given her over a dozen compliments that week, which one does she remember? A child receives accolades for her good grades that semester. But the dad, upon discovering the child has her first failing grade, tells her 'you won't amount to anything in life at the pace you are going.' Which of the father's words stick with the child for years if not a lifetime? One coworker points out problems in another coworker's area. Though the praises have been equal to the criticisms, which have the greatest power? A CEO who has provided mostly steady leadership for a few years has an anger meltdown in front of his direct reports. What facet of his leadership is remembered the most? A Time to Tear Down, A Time to Build Up The writer of Ecclesiastes tells us clearly that there are times to be negative and times to be positive (3:3). Indeed there are times for a prophetic voice, a corrective voice, and an admonishing voice. The problem is that the writer of Ecclesiastes does not give us specific instruction on timing and frequency. Many of us are tempted to exercise the power of the negative too frequently. When we are negative about some other person and event, we are able to look away from ourselves and our own weaknesses and failures. It's easier to the point the finger of accusation at someone other than ourselves. Further the power of the negative can be tempting because we often get attention when we do so. I can point to one example clearly on this blog. The article that has received the most views was a negative article I wrote on Jerry Sandusky and the Penn State child sex abuse scandal. I am convinced and convicted that the article was appropriate and timely. But I must ever keep in mind the power that negativity has. The Power of the Negative and Discernment The Apostle Paul said these words to a church 2,000 years ago, and they still apply to us today: 'Therefore encourage one another and build each other up as you are already doing' (1 Thessalonians 5:11, HCSB). There are indeed times when a prophetic or negative word is in order. There are moments in any leader's lives, whether a parent, pastor, or president, that the power of the negative should be exercised. But it should be exercised with wisdom and discernment. It would seem that the preponderance of our leadership should be one of building up and encouraging. Such leadership can change a family for the good. It can change an organization for the good. And it might just change the world for good. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33575 33575 Wed, 18 Apr 2012 03:00:00 +0000 '[The master] called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them … each according to his ability.' (Matthew 25:14-15, NIV) May I press an idea here? God has already given you the talent, ability, skill, money, or passion you need to fulfill his plan, to be entrusted with more, and to walk in pure joy. That's one of the key truths of the parable of the talents that many people miss. Remember? The master went on a journey. But before he left, he called his servants in and 'entrusted his possessions to them' (Matt. 25:14, NASB et al.). He passed out five talents to one, two to another, and one to a third, 'each according to his own ability,' (v. 15) and then he went on his way. I believe we already have everything we need to make a difference in the world! The skill is within you. The dream is deep inside you. The plan is in place. The passion is there. The ability is woven into your DNA by the Creator himself. Have you examined your life? The people within your circles? The possibilities within your realm? Will you be faithful in the little things? Examine your life today. Don't make the mistake of saying, 'Someday, when I have this, I'll do that,' or, 'When I have more time, I'll pursue that dream,' or, 'When I have more money, I'll give to this or that organization.' Start today. Start now. Let's make a difference! '[The master] called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them … each according to his ability.' (Matthew 25:14-15, NIV) May I press an idea here? God has already given you the talent, ability, skill, money, or passion you need to fulfill his plan, to be entrusted with more, and to walk in pure joy. That's one of the key truths of the parable of the talents that many people miss. Remember? The master went on a journey. But before he left, he called his servants in and 'entrusted his possessions to them' (Matt. 25:14, NASB et al.). He passed out five talents to one, two to another, and one to a third, 'each according to his own ability,' (v. 15) and then he went on his way. I believe we already have everything we need to make a difference in the world! The skill is within you. The dream is deep inside you. The plan is in place. The passion is there. The ability is woven into your DNA by the Creator himself. Have you examined your life? The people within your circles? The possibilities within your realm? Will you be faithful in the little things? Examine your life today. Don't make the mistake of saying, 'Someday, when I have this, I'll do that,' or, 'When I have more time, I'll pursue that dream,' or, 'When I have more money, I'll give to this or that organization.' Start today. Start now. Let's make a difference! http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33552 33552 Mon, 16 Apr 2012 06:03:00 +0000 Sean Lambert is president of Youth With a Mission San Diego/Baja. While on a mission trip in Tijuana, Sean and his daughter, Andrea, joined a team of 15 people to build a house for a poverty-stricken family. When the house was complete and the family moved in, Andrea pointed out another poor family living in an abandoned bus adjacent to the new home being built and said, 'Daddy, are you going to build them a house?' Andrea's words moved Sean to build a second house and Homes of Hope was born. Starting with this single house in Tijuana, Mexico, Homes of Hope has now built 3,482 homes for poor families in 10 different nations. One of the 'talents' knitted into Sean's make-up is his compassion for the poor. He was faithful with the one house God sent him to build and so God put him in charge of many. Today, Homes of Hope impacts needy families in five key areas: economic, educational, health, social and emotional, and spiritual. Sean is an excellent example of someone who took small, simple steps in obeying God, entering into all God wanted to do in and through his life in a ministry that is now impacting 10 other nations … and growing! Sean Lambert is president of Youth With a Mission San Diego/Baja. While on a mission trip in Tijuana, Sean and his daughter, Andrea, joined a team of 15 people to build a house for a poverty-stricken family. When the house was complete and the family moved in, Andrea pointed out another poor family living in an abandoned bus adjacent to the new home being built and said, 'Daddy, are you going to build them a house?' Andrea's words moved Sean to build a second house and Homes of Hope was born. Starting with this single house in Tijuana, Mexico, Homes of Hope has now built 3,482 homes for poor families in 10 different nations. One of the 'talents' knitted into Sean's make-up is his compassion for the poor. He was faithful with the one house God sent him to build and so God put him in charge of many. Today, Homes of Hope impacts needy families in five key areas: economic, educational, health, social and emotional, and spiritual. Sean is an excellent example of someone who took small, simple steps in obeying God, entering into all God wanted to do in and through his life in a ministry that is now impacting 10 other nations … and growing! http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33500 33500 Sat, 14 Apr 2012 03:00:00 +0000 The word 'talent' spoken of in the parable of the talents (Matt. 25:14-30) is a measure of weight and, in this usage, means 'money.' As in many of Christ's parables, however, the story contains multiple layers of meaning and wisdom. God gives us something of his to invest—according to our ability. Although God may have given you five talents and me two and someone else one, he views us each the same. Just because you have more does not mean God views you as more valuable or important. Indeed, God sees us all as equal; he values us the same. And what he truly values most is the way you and I steward the talents he's entrusted into our lives. How do we invest those talents? Are we fruitful? Do we get good return on the deposit he's made in our lives? What talent—be it treasure or ability or passion or skill—has God entrusted to you according to your unique ability? What passion has he woven into your heart, and only your heart? The word 'talent' spoken of in the parable of the talents (Matt. 25:14-30) is a measure of weight and, in this usage, means 'money.' As in many of Christ's parables, however, the story contains multiple layers of meaning and wisdom. God gives us something of his to invest—according to our ability. Although God may have given you five talents and me two and someone else one, he views us each the same. Just because you have more does not mean God views you as more valuable or important. Indeed, God sees us all as equal; he values us the same. And what he truly values most is the way you and I steward the talents he's entrusted into our lives. How do we invest those talents? Are we fruitful? Do we get good return on the deposit he's made in our lives? What talent—be it treasure or ability or passion or skill—has God entrusted to you according to your unique ability? What passion has he woven into your heart, and only your heart? http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33435 33435 Thu, 12 Apr 2012 03:00:00 +0000 Our daughter Jamie is in the hospital recovering from surgery. Tough day yesterday. Today we're looking to God for strength and direction. So, I pick up my 'Jesus Calling' devotional and read these words which seemed to leap off the page:'Trust Me in every detail of your life. Nothing is random in My kingdom. Everything that happens fits into a pattern for good, to those who love Me. Instead of trying to analyze the intricacies of the pattern, focus your energy on trusting Me and thanking Me at all times. Nothing is wasted when you walk close to Me. Even your mistakes and sins can be recycled into something good, through My transforming grace.'The texts that Ms. Young used to support her thoughts above:'But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.' —Jeremiah 17:7 We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose. —Romans 8:28 ampThank you, Jesus. He meets the need of our hearts right when we need it most!I shared my musings with my wife Patty. She smiles and pulls out her Bible to read from Psalm 119...I lie in the dust;revive me by your word. I told you my plans, and you answered. Now teach me your decrees.Help me understand the meaning of your commandments,and I will meditate on your wonderful deeds.I weep with sorrow;encourage me by your word. (Psalm 119:25-28 NLT) God meets us in the pages of Holy Scripture! He speaks to us through HIs Word over and over and over again. It never gets old! Our daughter Jamie is in the hospital recovering from surgery. Tough day yesterday. Today we're looking to God for strength and direction. So, I pick up my 'Jesus Calling' devotional and read these words which seemed to leap off the page:'Trust Me in every detail of your life. Nothing is random in My kingdom. Everything that happens fits into a pattern for good, to those who love Me. Instead of trying to analyze the intricacies of the pattern, focus your energy on trusting Me and thanking Me at all times. Nothing is wasted when you walk close to Me. Even your mistakes and sins can be recycled into something good, through My transforming grace.'The texts that Ms. Young used to support her thoughts above:'But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.' —Jeremiah 17:7 We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose. —Romans 8:28 ampThank you, Jesus. He meets the need of our hearts right when we need it most!I shared my musings with my wife Patty. She smiles and pulls out her Bible to read from Psalm 119...I lie in the dust;revive me by your word. I told you my plans, and you answered. Now teach me your decrees.Help me understand the meaning of your commandments,and I will meditate on your wonderful deeds.I weep with sorrow;encourage me by your word. (Psalm 119:25-28 NLT) God meets us in the pages of Holy Scripture! He speaks to us through HIs Word over and over and over again. It never gets old! http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33391 33391 Tue, 10 Apr 2012 09:35:00 +0000 Whenever a tsunami warning is given on the northern coastline of Maui, Hawaii, the people living in Hana rush up the side of a mountain to a high place of safety. Nearby is a tall wooden cross that was placed there many years ago by missionaries. For their physical safety, people run to the area where the cross is located. In a similar way, all of us need a place of spiritual safety. Why? Because the Lord gives us these warnings in His Word: 'All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God' and 'the wages of sin is death' (Rom. 3:23; 6:23). Hebrews 9:27 states: 'It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.' We might not like to think about what the consequences of our sin will be as we face a holy God, but it's a serious thing 'to fall into the hands of the living God' (10:31). The good news is that out of love for us, the Father has provided a place of safety! He sent His Son Jesus to die so we wouldn't have to be separated from Him forever (Rom. 5:8-10; Col. 1:19-22). Because of Jesus Christ's death on the cross and His resurrection from the dead, that place of safety is available. Whenever a tsunami warning is given on the northern coastline of Maui, Hawaii, the people living in Hana rush up the side of a mountain to a high place of safety. Nearby is a tall wooden cross that was placed there many years ago by missionaries. For their physical safety, people run to the area where the cross is located. In a similar way, all of us need a place of spiritual safety. Why? Because the Lord gives us these warnings in His Word: 'All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God' and 'the wages of sin is death' (Rom. 3:23; 6:23). Hebrews 9:27 states: 'It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.' We might not like to think about what the consequences of our sin will be as we face a holy God, but it's a serious thing 'to fall into the hands of the living God' (10:31). The good news is that out of love for us, the Father has provided a place of safety! He sent His Son Jesus to die so we wouldn't have to be separated from Him forever (Rom. 5:8-10; Col. 1:19-22). Because of Jesus Christ's death on the cross and His resurrection from the dead, that place of safety is available. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33371 33371 Sun, 8 Apr 2012 21:48:00 +0000 It's Friday, but Sunday's a-comin'... and I can't wait! 1 On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, 'Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 7 'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.' ' 8 Then they remembered his words. ~ Luke 24:1-8 NIV84 It's Friday, but Sunday's a-comin'... and I can't wait! 1 On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, 'Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 7 'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.' ' 8 Then they remembered his words. ~ Luke 24:1-8 NIV84 http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33326 33326 Fri, 6 Apr 2012 18:18:00 +0000 I love the way Max Lucado paints this picture....It has been a long day. Jerusalem is packed with Passover guests, most of whom clamor for a glimpse of the Teacher. The spring sun is warm. The streets are dry. And the disciples are a long way from home. A splash of cool water would be refreshing. The disciples enter [the room], one by one, and take their places around the table. On the wall hangs a towel, and on the floor sits a pitcher and a basin. Any one of the disciples could volunteer for the job, but not one does. After a few moments, Jesus stands and removes his outer garment. He wraps a servant's girdle around his waist, takes up the basin, and kneels before one of the disciples. He unlaces a sandal and gently lifts the foot and places it in the basin, covers it with water, and begins to bathe it. One by one, one grimy foot after another, Jesus works his way down the row. In Jesus' day the washing of feet was a task reserved not just for servants but for the lowest of servants…The servant at the bottom of the totem pole was expected to be the one on his knees with the towel and basin. In this case the one with the towel and basin is the king of the universe. Hands that shaped the stars now wash away filth. Fingers that formed mountains now massage toes. And the one before whom all nations will one day kneel now kneels before his disciples. Hours before his own death, Jesus' concern is singular. He wants his disciples to know how much he loves them... You can be sure Jesus knows the future of these feet he is washing. These twenty-four feet will not spend the next day following their master, defending his cause. These feet will dash for cover at the flash of a Roman sword. Only one pair of feet won't abandon him in the garden. One disciple won't desert him at Gethsemane—Judas won't even make it that far! He will abandon Jesus that very night at the table… What a passionate moment when Jesus silently lifts the feet of his betrayer and washes them in the basin! Jesus knows what these men are about to do. He knows they are about to perform the vilest act of their lives. By morning they will bury their heads in shame and look down at their feet in disgust. And when they do, he wants them to remember how his knees knelt before them and he washed their feet… He forgave their sin before they even committed it. He offered mercy before they even sought it.As we move toward Good Friday and Easter, my blog-reading friends, let's contemplate our sin and His mercy...- Garth I love the way Max Lucado paints this picture....It has been a long day. Jerusalem is packed with Passover guests, most of whom clamor for a glimpse of the Teacher. The spring sun is warm. The streets are dry. And the disciples are a long way from home. A splash of cool water would be refreshing. The disciples enter [the room], one by one, and take their places around the table. On the wall hangs a towel, and on the floor sits a pitcher and a basin. Any one of the disciples could volunteer for the job, but not one does. After a few moments, Jesus stands and removes his outer garment. He wraps a servant's girdle around his waist, takes up the basin, and kneels before one of the disciples. He unlaces a sandal and gently lifts the foot and places it in the basin, covers it with water, and begins to bathe it. One by one, one grimy foot after another, Jesus works his way down the row. In Jesus' day the washing of feet was a task reserved not just for servants but for the lowest of servants…The servant at the bottom of the totem pole was expected to be the one on his knees with the towel and basin. In this case the one with the towel and basin is the king of the universe. Hands that shaped the stars now wash away filth. Fingers that formed mountains now massage toes. And the one before whom all nations will one day kneel now kneels before his disciples. Hours before his own death, Jesus' concern is singular. He wants his disciples to know how much he loves them... You can be sure Jesus knows the future of these feet he is washing. These twenty-four feet will not spend the next day following their master, defending his cause. These feet will dash for cover at the flash of a Roman sword. Only one pair of feet won't abandon him in the garden. One disciple won't desert him at Gethsemane—Judas won't even make it that far! He will abandon Jesus that very night at the table… What a passionate moment when Jesus silently lifts the feet of his betrayer and washes them in the basin! Jesus knows what these men are about to do. He knows they are about to perform the vilest act of their lives. By morning they will bury their heads in shame and look down at their feet in disgust. And when they do, he wants them to remember how his knees knelt before them and he washed their feet… He forgave their sin before they even committed it. He offered mercy before they even sought it.As we move toward Good Friday and Easter, my blog-reading friends, let's contemplate our sin and His mercy...- Garth http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33243 33243 Wed, 4 Apr 2012 06:56:00 +0000 In Mark 10:35-45, we read an account of the time James and John approached Jesus and asked for the privilege of sitting at his right and left hand in the coming kingdom. When the other disciples heard about this, 'they became indignant' (Mark 10:41, NIV). I suspect they wondered, Why didn't I think of that? You might think growing closer to Jesus would make it easier not to contend for status and position, but that wasn't the case for the disciples. Right up to the night before Jesus died, they were jockeying for position and seeking to elevate themselves in the coming kingdom. On the night of the Last Supper, after years of walking daily with Jesus and soaking in his wisdom and marveling at the miracles he performed, the disciples remained concerned about power and status. As they climbed the stairs to the Upper Room, I'm sure they were thinking, Someone is going to get the seat of honor, and someone is going to end up at the other end of the table. Before we point any fingers at the disciples for their lack of spiritual depth, better take a look closer to home.... In Mark 10:35-45, we read an account of the time James and John approached Jesus and asked for the privilege of sitting at his right and left hand in the coming kingdom. When the other disciples heard about this, 'they became indignant' (Mark 10:41, NIV). I suspect they wondered, Why didn't I think of that? You might think growing closer to Jesus would make it easier not to contend for status and position, but that wasn't the case for the disciples. Right up to the night before Jesus died, they were jockeying for position and seeking to elevate themselves in the coming kingdom. On the night of the Last Supper, after years of walking daily with Jesus and soaking in his wisdom and marveling at the miracles he performed, the disciples remained concerned about power and status. As they climbed the stairs to the Upper Room, I'm sure they were thinking, Someone is going to get the seat of honor, and someone is going to end up at the other end of the table. Before we point any fingers at the disciples for their lack of spiritual depth, better take a look closer to home.... http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33189 33189 Mon, 2 Apr 2012 10:13:00 +0000 Ron says he watched it happen when he was in manufacturing. When decisions which affect the assembly line are made in the boardroom they seldom work and are always resented. The quality of work diminishes and production stalls. I watched it happen when I was in sales, long before I followed Jesus. When procedures are handed down as edicts, without including the input of salespeople, morale is damaged, which ultimately has a negative impact on sales. It also happens in churches. When the pastor, or a board, makes a decision that impacts the children's ministry, for example, without the input of people who are actually doing children's ministry, resentment builds, momentum stalls, and people resist the changes. We all need to be careful making decisions from 'the Ivory Tower'. Many leaders lead with a top down approach, passing down decisions without consulting with those who have to live with them. It's easy in leadership to forget that real people have to implement your decisions. 'Don't stand in the tower. Get out among the people you lead.' Good advice. Great leaders build decisions from the ground up, not from the top down. If we want people to buy-in to our decisions, then we need to let the people who implement those decisions be a part of making them whenever possible. Ron says he watched it happen when he was in manufacturing. When decisions which affect the assembly line are made in the boardroom they seldom work and are always resented. The quality of work diminishes and production stalls. I watched it happen when I was in sales, long before I followed Jesus. When procedures are handed down as edicts, without including the input of salespeople, morale is damaged, which ultimately has a negative impact on sales. It also happens in churches. When the pastor, or a board, makes a decision that impacts the children's ministry, for example, without the input of people who are actually doing children's ministry, resentment builds, momentum stalls, and people resist the changes. We all need to be careful making decisions from 'the Ivory Tower'. Many leaders lead with a top down approach, passing down decisions without consulting with those who have to live with them. It's easy in leadership to forget that real people have to implement your decisions. 'Don't stand in the tower. Get out among the people you lead.' Good advice. Great leaders build decisions from the ground up, not from the top down. If we want people to buy-in to our decisions, then we need to let the people who implement those decisions be a part of making them whenever possible. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=33018 33018 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:08:00 +0000 Jeremiah 29:11-13 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.' We love this passage mostly because of verse 11. But keep reading! It's an invitation to talk to God. Call upon me, he says, and I will listen to you! Yes! We can talk to God because God listens. Your voice matters in heaven. He takes you very seriously. When we enter his presence there's no need to fear that we will be ignored. Even if you stammer or stumble, even if what you have to say impresses no one, it impresses God—and he listens. He listens to the painful plea of the elderly in the rest home. He listens to the gruff confession of the death-row inmate. When the alcoholic begs for mercy, when the spouse seeks guidance, when the businessman steps off the street into the chapel, God listens. Jeremiah 29:11-13 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.' We love this passage mostly because of verse 11. But keep reading! It's an invitation to talk to God. Call upon me, he says, and I will listen to you! Yes! We can talk to God because God listens. Your voice matters in heaven. He takes you very seriously. When we enter his presence there's no need to fear that we will be ignored. Even if you stammer or stumble, even if what you have to say impresses no one, it impresses God—and he listens. He listens to the painful plea of the elderly in the rest home. He listens to the gruff confession of the death-row inmate. When the alcoholic begs for mercy, when the spouse seeks guidance, when the businessman steps off the street into the chapel, God listens. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=32934 32934 Sun, 25 Mar 2012 20:49:00 +0000 Leadership. It seems to be the point of discussion no matter what the subject is and no matter where I turn these days. If you turn on SportsCenter you might hear about Tom Brady, Kevin Durant or Kobe Bryant's Leadership. If you turn on any national news station you might hear about the leadership or lack there of, for the Members of Parliament or Prime Minister Stephen Harper. If you look at Twitter or Facebook you will see someone sharing a leadership quote or recommending a leadership book. Everyone is talking about leadership, many people are writing about leadership, and everyone wants to be a better leader. Leadership expert and author John Maxwell has written countless leadership books and has sold over 19 million copies – a great illustration that people desire to become better leaders. It doesn't matter how many leadership books you read, how much leadership intellect you have or if you have obtained an awesome leadership role, the cold hard facts about leadership remain fairly constant: 1. If your actions don't inspire those around you to be more, do more and believe in themselves more; there is a good chance that you are not leading. You might just be fooling yourself! 2. If you are more focused on how you're perceived than you are on developing others and helping those around you win; you're not leading. 3. If you are unwilling to change or lead from the 'my way or the highway' standpoint; you're not leading, that's called dictating. Delusive leadership gets delusive results. Keep it real, care about your people and help others win. The end result will be better team members, a better organization and an overall better life! Leadership. It seems to be the point of discussion no matter what the subject is and no matter where I turn these days. If you turn on SportsCenter you might hear about Tom Brady, Kevin Durant or Kobe Bryant's Leadership. If you turn on any national news station you might hear about the leadership or lack there of, for the Members of Parliament or Prime Minister Stephen Harper. If you look at Twitter or Facebook you will see someone sharing a leadership quote or recommending a leadership book. Everyone is talking about leadership, many people are writing about leadership, and everyone wants to be a better leader. Leadership expert and author John Maxwell has written countless leadership books and has sold over 19 million copies – a great illustration that people desire to become better leaders. It doesn't matter how many leadership books you read, how much leadership intellect you have or if you have obtained an awesome leadership role, the cold hard facts about leadership remain fairly constant: 1. If your actions don't inspire those around you to be more, do more and believe in themselves more; there is a good chance that you are not leading. You might just be fooling yourself! 2. If you are more focused on how you're perceived than you are on developing others and helping those around you win; you're not leading. 3. If you are unwilling to change or lead from the 'my way or the highway' standpoint; you're not leading, that's called dictating. Delusive leadership gets delusive results. Keep it real, care about your people and help others win. The end result will be better team members, a better organization and an overall better life! http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=32460 32460 Wed, 21 Mar 2012 03:00:00 +0000 Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;There is no shadow of turning with Thee;Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be. Refrain Great is Thy faithfulness!Great is Thy faithfulness!Morning by morning new mercies I see.All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me! Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,Sun, moon and stars in their courses aboveJoin with all nature in manifold witnessTo Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. Refrain Pardon for sin and a peace that endurethThine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! Refrain Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;There is no shadow of turning with Thee;Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be. Refrain Great is Thy faithfulness!Great is Thy faithfulness!Morning by morning new mercies I see.All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me! Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,Sun, moon and stars in their courses aboveJoin with all nature in manifold witnessTo Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. Refrain Pardon for sin and a peace that endurethThine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! Refrain http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=32459 32459 Sun, 18 Mar 2012 03:00:00 +0000 'Go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say.' (Exodus 4:12) When Dean Smith retired after 36 years as the head coach of the University of North Carolina, a number of sportswriters dusted off stories from his days as a young coach in the 1960s. It was a tumultuous time in the United States, and Smith put himself in the middle of it, repeatedly. Many times he would invite an African American member of the community to lunch. They would head to the most segregated place in town. People would stare and become angry at his audacity to do that in public. Smith didn't care and would blithely eat his meal, knowing they weren't about to throw him out, as much as they might want to. Some critics might say that what he did was outside his coaching platform. He overstepped his bounds. Wrong. We all should be expanding our platforms, looking for ways we can influence others and situations for good. We can volunteer to tutor, carpool to soccer practice, or start a book discussion group. Have a cheery disposition for everyone we come in contact with. The list of options to make a difference is endless. How might we use our passion, hobbies, or an area of interest as a way to influence others? 'Go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say.' (Exodus 4:12) When Dean Smith retired after 36 years as the head coach of the University of North Carolina, a number of sportswriters dusted off stories from his days as a young coach in the 1960s. It was a tumultuous time in the United States, and Smith put himself in the middle of it, repeatedly. Many times he would invite an African American member of the community to lunch. They would head to the most segregated place in town. People would stare and become angry at his audacity to do that in public. Smith didn't care and would blithely eat his meal, knowing they weren't about to throw him out, as much as they might want to. Some critics might say that what he did was outside his coaching platform. He overstepped his bounds. Wrong. We all should be expanding our platforms, looking for ways we can influence others and situations for good. We can volunteer to tutor, carpool to soccer practice, or start a book discussion group. Have a cheery disposition for everyone we come in contact with. The list of options to make a difference is endless. How might we use our passion, hobbies, or an area of interest as a way to influence others? http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=32458 32458 Fri, 16 Mar 2012 03:00:00 +0000 Tony Dungy is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Quiet Strength, Uncommon, The Mentor Leader, and The One Year Uncommon Life Daily Challenge—the book from which this blog is adapted. As a head coach in the NFL, he led his teams to the playoffs for 10 consecutive years and won a Super Bowl with the Indianapolis Colts in 2007. Since retiring, he has become a panelist for NBC's Football Night in America. He and his wife, Lauren, are the parents of seven children. God has given everyone a platform. Some of those are broad and highly visible, but others are small—or at least they seem that way. A 'small' platform is huge when it impacts even one other person who goes on to impact many. God is the designer of our platform, and he gives us the privilege of using it to influence others. Sometimes we don't see the results of our investment in other people's lives for years to come, if at all. But everyone's platform is unique, and God has a plan for it. Take our daughter, Jamie, for example. She cannot speak. She has no purposeful use of her hands. She cannot stand on her own, run on a treadmill, lead a Bible study, or sing in a worship team. But her platform is full of opportunities to share God's love in ways that I can only dream of. Several people are in God's kingdom today because of Jamie's life and ministry. Her platform is unique, and God has used it for his glory. You may not be a Heisman Trophy winner or a Super Bowl champion, but you have influence. A platform that may seem small to you can have lasting impact that you will only discover in eternity. That's why it's important to never sell your platform short. God is a master of doing big things with small beginnings. And he has put you where you are—and surrounded you with the people you know—for a reason. Tony Dungy is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Quiet Strength, Uncommon, The Mentor Leader, and The One Year Uncommon Life Daily Challenge—the book from which this blog is adapted. As a head coach in the NFL, he led his teams to the playoffs for 10 consecutive years and won a Super Bowl with the Indianapolis Colts in 2007. Since retiring, he has become a panelist for NBC's Football Night in America. He and his wife, Lauren, are the parents of seven children. God has given everyone a platform. Some of those are broad and highly visible, but others are small—or at least they seem that way. A 'small' platform is huge when it impacts even one other person who goes on to impact many. God is the designer of our platform, and he gives us the privilege of using it to influence others. Sometimes we don't see the results of our investment in other people's lives for years to come, if at all. But everyone's platform is unique, and God has a plan for it. Take our daughter, Jamie, for example. She cannot speak. She has no purposeful use of her hands. She cannot stand on her own, run on a treadmill, lead a Bible study, or sing in a worship team. But her platform is full of opportunities to share God's love in ways that I can only dream of. Several people are in God's kingdom today because of Jamie's life and ministry. Her platform is unique, and God has used it for his glory. You may not be a Heisman Trophy winner or a Super Bowl champion, but you have influence. A platform that may seem small to you can have lasting impact that you will only discover in eternity. That's why it's important to never sell your platform short. God is a master of doing big things with small beginnings. And he has put you where you are—and surrounded you with the people you know—for a reason. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=32457 32457 Tue, 13 Mar 2012 03:00:00 +0000 It doesn't matter whether your office is a boardroom, classroom, or laundry room. There are people who do things for you every day. Employees, colleagues, and family are expected to do their part. Do they know that you appreciate them? It was a typical Thursday, and I had a gazillion things on my mind as I was getting ready for the weekend. I sat down to write some emails… Let's find a way to get people in sooner. Can we keep the lights up a little longer? Can we cut down on the announcements? Why are people sitting in the balcony in the 9:00 a.m. service when we still have lots of room on the main floor? And oh, I gotta find a better background for my slides! In the middle of composing this gem of gentle reminders, a terrible realization came over me: I send too many emails like this everyday. I wonder? Do the people I work with know how much I appreciate them? So wrote something like this instead: Thank you for working hard every weekend to 'bring it' for our church family! Thank you for loving me even when I don't deserve it. Thank you for going the extra mile. Thank you for leading us in worship. Thank you for encouraging us to keep the main thing the main thing. Thank you for doing stuff that is not your responsibility, per se. Thank you for leading with integrity. Thank you for making me laugh. Thank you for responding to my leadership style even when you don't want to. Thank you for choosing to follow Jesus first and foremost. The lasting effect of saying thank you cannot be underestimated. Appreciation is powerful. Try it. You'll see what I mean. It doesn't matter whether your office is a boardroom, classroom, or laundry room. There are people who do things for you every day. Employees, colleagues, and family are expected to do their part. Do they know that you appreciate them? It was a typical Thursday, and I had a gazillion things on my mind as I was getting ready for the weekend. I sat down to write some emails… Let's find a way to get people in sooner. Can we keep the lights up a little longer? Can we cut down on the announcements? Why are people sitting in the balcony in the 9:00 a.m. service when we still have lots of room on the main floor? And oh, I gotta find a better background for my slides! In the middle of composing this gem of gentle reminders, a terrible realization came over me: I send too many emails like this everyday. I wonder? Do the people I work with know how much I appreciate them? So wrote something like this instead: Thank you for working hard every weekend to 'bring it' for our church family! Thank you for loving me even when I don't deserve it. Thank you for going the extra mile. Thank you for leading us in worship. Thank you for encouraging us to keep the main thing the main thing. Thank you for doing stuff that is not your responsibility, per se. Thank you for leading with integrity. Thank you for making me laugh. Thank you for responding to my leadership style even when you don't want to. Thank you for choosing to follow Jesus first and foremost. The lasting effect of saying thank you cannot be underestimated. Appreciation is powerful. Try it. You'll see what I mean. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=32429 32429 Sun, 11 Mar 2012 03:00:00 +0000 There are some facets of leadership that are constant. Character and integrity are vital. You must have willing followers. You must stay humble and flexible and Spirit-dependent. And you must be courageous. Those are some of the key components of effective leadership five years ago. They still are today and will be fifty years from now. But so much of leadership is changing. In fact keeping pace as a leader has never been more difficult. I read an article by Thom Rainer recently and I think he's spot on with his observations. He asked several respected leaders how leadership has changed over the past five years. To the person, each of them said that the changes have been fast and furious, and have demanded much of them. And though the study was not scientific, the responses were fascinating. On a personal note, I have been struggling lately with the overwhelming workload on my shoulders, and at the same, I feel like I'm drowning in the sea of information overload. So this article was helpful. I'm making headway! In summary, these leaders shared five reasons you can't lead like you did five years ago. 1. The digital revolution affects all aspects of leadership. We have observed the radical change in the music industry in this digital era. We are in the midst of another revolution in the print and book industry. But no organization is unfazed by the digital revolution. Leadership today demands we understand it and embrace it. And I do embrace it even though I don't understand it all. So I have made a personal decision to depend on the geeks in my circle of influence to understand it and help me where I need it! 2. Social media is changing the landscape of leadership. Social media is the great equalizer. No organization has an inherent communication advantage anymore. Leaders must embrace the many facets of social media or get left behind. 3. Leaders must manage information saturation. There is no shortage of information. Leaders today have magazine subscriptions. RSS feeds to blogs, bookmarked Internet news sources, and many other sources of information. The challenge for leaders today is to know what to read, to whom to listen, and how often to do both. Leaders must both stay current and relevant, and they must be willing to ignore and discard. It takes wisdom to discern the helpful from the not-so-helpful. So I'm asking all of my blog readers to pray for me in this regard. I need wisdom!!! 4. Leaders must have a greater awareness of relational intelligence issues. Leaders must understand and manage a plethora of organizational and social relationships. They must deal with the soft issues of culture as well as the hard issues of numbers, products, services, and performance. Peter Drucker was on target and prophetic when he said 'culture eats strategy for breakfast' (The quote is widely attributed to Drucker, but it was popularized in 2006 by Mark Fields, president of Ford Motor Company). Now more than ever, leaders must understand relational and cultural issues, including a frank assessment of the person in the mirror. 5. Strategic thinking is more important than ever. Culture may eat strategy for breakfast, but strategy is still vital. Leaders of organizations and leaders in organizations must anticipate the future with wisdom and discernment. The world is changing so rapidly that a leader can no longer have the luxury of simply carrying out assignments. He or she must anticipate and take risks. No organization that is standing still will be effective five years from now. Obviously, these five factors are not mutually exclusive, nor are they comprehensive. But they've helped me manage myself a bit better. Hopefully they will challenge you too. It is clear, however, that we must constantly be growing as a leader, or we will not be effective leaders in the years to come. Though the challenges are great, those challenges can lead to exciting and rewarding times. There are some facets of leadership that are constant. Character and integrity are vital. You must have willing followers. You must stay humble and flexible and Spirit-dependent. And you must be courageous. Those are some of the key components of effective leadership five years ago. They still are today and will be fifty years from now. But so much of leadership is changing. In fact keeping pace as a leader has never been more difficult. I read an article by Thom Rainer recently and I think he's spot on with his observations. He asked several respected leaders how leadership has changed over the past five years. To the person, each of them said that the changes have been fast and furious, and have demanded much of them. And though the study was not scientific, the responses were fascinating. On a personal note, I have been struggling lately with the overwhelming workload on my shoulders, and at the same, I feel like I'm drowning in the sea of information overload. So this article was helpful. I'm making headway! In summary, these leaders shared five reasons you can't lead like you did five years ago. 1. The digital revolution affects all aspects of leadership. We have observed the radical change in the music industry in this digital era. We are in the midst of another revolution in the print and book industry. But no organization is unfazed by the digital revolution. Leadership today demands we understand it and embrace it. And I do embrace it even though I don't understand it all. So I have made a personal decision to depend on the geeks in my circle of influence to understand it and help me where I need it! 2. Social media is changing the landscape of leadership. Social media is the great equalizer. No organization has an inherent communication advantage anymore. Leaders must embrace the many facets of social media or get left behind. 3. Leaders must manage information saturation. There is no shortage of information. Leaders today have magazine subscriptions. RSS feeds to blogs, bookmarked Internet news sources, and many other sources of information. The challenge for leaders today is to know what to read, to whom to listen, and how often to do both. Leaders must both stay current and relevant, and they must be willing to ignore and discard. It takes wisdom to discern the helpful from the not-so-helpful. So I'm asking all of my blog readers to pray for me in this regard. I need wisdom!!! 4. Leaders must have a greater awareness of relational intelligence issues. Leaders must understand and manage a plethora of organizational and social relationships. They must deal with the soft issues of culture as well as the hard issues of numbers, products, services, and performance. Peter Drucker was on target and prophetic when he said 'culture eats strategy for breakfast' (The quote is widely attributed to Drucker, but it was popularized in 2006 by Mark Fields, president of Ford Motor Company). Now more than ever, leaders must understand relational and cultural issues, including a frank assessment of the person in the mirror. 5. Strategic thinking is more important than ever. Culture may eat strategy for breakfast, but strategy is still vital. Leaders of organizations and leaders in organizations must anticipate the future with wisdom and discernment. The world is changing so rapidly that a leader can no longer have the luxury of simply carrying out assignments. He or she must anticipate and take risks. No organization that is standing still will be effective five years from now. Obviously, these five factors are not mutually exclusive, nor are they comprehensive. But they've helped me manage myself a bit better. Hopefully they will challenge you too. It is clear, however, that we must constantly be growing as a leader, or we will not be effective leaders in the years to come. Though the challenges are great, those challenges can lead to exciting and rewarding times. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=32423 32423 Fri, 9 Mar 2012 03:00:00 +0000 Take Up Your Cross The phrase 'take up your cross' has not fared well through the generations. Ask for a definition, and you'll hear answers like, 'My cross is my mother-in-law, my job, my bad marriage, my cranky boss, or the dull preacher.' The cross, we assume, is any besetting affliction or personal hassle. My thesaurus agrees. It lists the following synonyms for cross: frustration, trying situation, snag, hitch, and drawback. The cross means so much more. It is God's tool of redemption, instrument of salvation—proof of his love for people. To take up the cross, then, is to take up Christ's burden for the people of the world. Though our crosses are similar, none are identical. 'If any of you want to be my followers, you must forget about yourself. You must take up your cross each day and follow me' (Luke 9:23 CEV, emphasis mine). We each have our own cross to carry—our individual calling. Discover your God-designed task. It fits. It matches your passions and enlists your gifts and talents. Want to blow the cloud cover off your gray day? Accept God's direction. 'The Lord has assigned to each his task' (1 Corinthians3:5 NIV). What is yours? What is your unique call, assignment, mission? A trio of questions might help. In what directions has God taken you? What needs has God revealed to you? What abilities has God given to you? Direction. Need. Ability. Your spiritual DNA. You at your best. You and your cross. While none of us is called to carry the sin of the world (Jesus did that), all of us can carry a burden for the world. Check your vital signs. Something stirs you. Some call brings energy to your voice, conviction to your face, and direction to your step. Isolate and embrace it. Nothing gives a day a greater chance than a good wallop of passion. ~ by Max Lucado Take Up Your Cross The phrase 'take up your cross' has not fared well through the generations. Ask for a definition, and you'll hear answers like, 'My cross is my mother-in-law, my job, my bad marriage, my cranky boss, or the dull preacher.' The cross, we assume, is any besetting affliction or personal hassle. My thesaurus agrees. It lists the following synonyms for cross: frustration, trying situation, snag, hitch, and drawback. The cross means so much more. It is God's tool of redemption, instrument of salvation—proof of his love for people. To take up the cross, then, is to take up Christ's burden for the people of the world. Though our crosses are similar, none are identical. 'If any of you want to be my followers, you must forget about yourself. You must take up your cross each day and follow me' (Luke 9:23 CEV, emphasis mine). We each have our own cross to carry—our individual calling. Discover your God-designed task. It fits. It matches your passions and enlists your gifts and talents. Want to blow the cloud cover off your gray day? Accept God's direction. 'The Lord has assigned to each his task' (1 Corinthians3:5 NIV). What is yours? What is your unique call, assignment, mission? A trio of questions might help. In what directions has God taken you? What needs has God revealed to you? What abilities has God given to you? Direction. Need. Ability. Your spiritual DNA. You at your best. You and your cross. While none of us is called to carry the sin of the world (Jesus did that), all of us can carry a burden for the world. Check your vital signs. Something stirs you. Some call brings energy to your voice, conviction to your face, and direction to your step. Isolate and embrace it. Nothing gives a day a greater chance than a good wallop of passion. ~ by Max Lucado http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=32388 32388 Wed, 7 Mar 2012 06:00:00 +0000 As part of our Sunday service on March 4 we will enjoy a missions feature with Lizette Lavoie. That has me thinking more about missions in general. I thought I would share with you William Carey's 11 commandments for missions: 1. Set an infinite value on immortal souls. 2. Gain all the information you can about 'the snares and delusions in which these heathens are held.' 3. Abstain from all English (we would substitute 'Canadian') manners which might increase prejudice against the gospel. 4. Watch for all opportunities for doing good, even when you are tired and hot. 5. Make Christ crucified the great subject of your preaching. 6. Earn the people's confidence by your friendship. 7. Build up the souls that are gathered. 8. Turn the work over to 'the native brethren' as soon as possible. 9. Work with all your might to translate the Bible into their languages. Build schools to this end. 10. Stay alert in prayer, wrestling with God until he 'famish these idols and cause the heathen to experience the blessedness that is in Christ.' 11. Give yourself totally to this glorious cause. Surrender your time, gifts, strength, families, the very clothes you wear. Listed in Christian History, Issue 36, page 34. As part of our Sunday service on March 4 we will enjoy a missions feature with Lizette Lavoie. That has me thinking more about missions in general. I thought I would share with you William Carey's 11 commandments for missions: 1. Set an infinite value on immortal souls. 2. Gain all the information you can about 'the snares and delusions in which these heathens are held.' 3. Abstain from all English (we would substitute 'Canadian') manners which might increase prejudice against the gospel. 4. Watch for all opportunities for doing good, even when you are tired and hot. 5. Make Christ crucified the great subject of your preaching. 6. Earn the people's confidence by your friendship. 7. Build up the souls that are gathered. 8. Turn the work over to 'the native brethren' as soon as possible. 9. Work with all your might to translate the Bible into their languages. Build schools to this end. 10. Stay alert in prayer, wrestling with God until he 'famish these idols and cause the heathen to experience the blessedness that is in Christ.' 11. Give yourself totally to this glorious cause. Surrender your time, gifts, strength, families, the very clothes you wear. Listed in Christian History, Issue 36, page 34. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=32302 32302 Sat, 3 Mar 2012 18:06:00 +0000 Potent preaching is not marked by the application of brilliant minds, nor is it the fruit of brilliant techniques. We don't understand God. What is it about Him that so often leads Him to mute His power, to conceal himself behind the weak and lame? It's not as though He doesn't understand His own power. His Word created the whole of the universe and holds everything in place. His Spirit gave life to us when we were dead. That Word never returns void. That Spirit is omnipotent. But He has chosen to not only work on us, but to work through us. The Word reaches the apex of its power not when it stands alone, but when it is preached. God is pleased to use the foolishness of preaching to give life, to change the world. He works through us! But all of this presents us with a peculiar temptation. On the one hand we want to affirm the power of preaching. On the other hand, we don't want to fall into 'power preaching.' That is, we don't want to embrace the foolishness of the world, thinking this showy gift and that precision technique is how we tap into that power. A man in a power tie, making power gestures, using PowerPoint has likely missed the power. Instead, just as God has chosen the foolish things of the world to change the world, just as He shows strength in our weakness, so we must embrace weakness if we would see the power. Strong and effective preaching then is not marked ultimately by the application of brilliant minds. Neither is it the fruit of brilliant techniques. Instead the power comes when I am willing to be weak. We are changed by preaching when the Word shows us our need, exposing our sin. We are changed when the Word shows us the solution, the finished work of Christ. We are changed when preaching agrees with the Word, that we must repent and believe. What we need is not clearer commentaries. What we need is not more homiletics classes. What we need in the pulpit is courage. I know that I cannot see into the hearts of others. I do not see the sins of the sheep in the pews. I can, at least to a degree, see my own sin. And it is rather safe to assume that my sin and my neighbors' sins are not so distant. If I would preach to the sins of the congregation, I must preach to my own sins. In days of cultural decline such as our own, it is rather easy for preachers to thunder against the sins of the broader culture. This too, however, is a form of ear-tickling. 'Aren't they awful' as a common message will ultimately translate soon enough into 'But we're okay.' My calling, however, is to feed my sheep. Which means I must preach to their sins. Which means I must preach to our own. Courage then is what we need in our pulpits, the courage to look honestly to our own sins. And that is driven by gospel confidence. I can face my sin because it is already dealt with. I can speak to it because God has already declared it to be forgiven. If I humble myself in the pulpit, God will come in both grace and power. And that changes everything. Potent preaching is not marked by the application of brilliant minds, nor is it the fruit of brilliant techniques. We don't understand God. What is it about Him that so often leads Him to mute His power, to conceal himself behind the weak and lame? It's not as though He doesn't understand His own power. His Word created the whole of the universe and holds everything in place. His Spirit gave life to us when we were dead. That Word never returns void. That Spirit is omnipotent. But He has chosen to not only work on us, but to work through us. The Word reaches the apex of its power not when it stands alone, but when it is preached. God is pleased to use the foolishness of preaching to give life, to change the world. He works through us! But all of this presents us with a peculiar temptation. On the one hand we want to affirm the power of preaching. On the other hand, we don't want to fall into 'power preaching.' That is, we don't want to embrace the foolishness of the world, thinking this showy gift and that precision technique is how we tap into that power. A man in a power tie, making power gestures, using PowerPoint has likely missed the power. Instead, just as God has chosen the foolish things of the world to change the world, just as He shows strength in our weakness, so we must embrace weakness if we would see the power. Strong and effective preaching then is not marked ultimately by the application of brilliant minds. Neither is it the fruit of brilliant techniques. Instead the power comes when I am willing to be weak. We are changed by preaching when the Word shows us our need, exposing our sin. We are changed when the Word shows us the solution, the finished work of Christ. We are changed when preaching agrees with the Word, that we must repent and believe. What we need is not clearer commentaries. What we need is not more homiletics classes. What we need in the pulpit is courage. I know that I cannot see into the hearts of others. I do not see the sins of the sheep in the pews. I can, at least to a degree, see my own sin. And it is rather safe to assume that my sin and my neighbors' sins are not so distant. If I would preach to the sins of the congregation, I must preach to my own sins. In days of cultural decline such as our own, it is rather easy for preachers to thunder against the sins of the broader culture. This too, however, is a form of ear-tickling. 'Aren't they awful' as a common message will ultimately translate soon enough into 'But we're okay.' My calling, however, is to feed my sheep. Which means I must preach to their sins. Which means I must preach to our own. Courage then is what we need in our pulpits, the courage to look honestly to our own sins. And that is driven by gospel confidence. I can face my sin because it is already dealt with. I can speak to it because God has already declared it to be forgiven. If I humble myself in the pulpit, God will come in both grace and power. And that changes everything. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=32200 32200 Thu, 1 Mar 2012 03:00:00 +0000 Yesterday in my quiet time along with God, I heard him whisper to my heart, 'Keep your eyes on Me! Waves of adversity are washing over you, and you feel tempted to give up. As your circumstances consume more and more of your attention, you are losing sight of Me. Yet I am with you always, holding you by your right hand. I am fully aware of your situation, and I will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able to bear. 'Your gravest danger is worrying about tomorrow. If you try to carry tomorrow's burdens today, you will stagger under the load and eventually fall flat. You must discipline yourself to live within the boundaries of today. It is in the present moment that I walk close to you, helping you carry your burdens. Keep your focus on My Presence in the present.' Thank you LORD! Yesterday in my quiet time along with God, I heard him whisper to my heart, 'Keep your eyes on Me! Waves of adversity are washing over you, and you feel tempted to give up. As your circumstances consume more and more of your attention, you are losing sight of Me. Yet I am with you always, holding you by your right hand. I am fully aware of your situation, and I will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able to bear. 'Your gravest danger is worrying about tomorrow. If you try to carry tomorrow's burdens today, you will stagger under the load and eventually fall flat. You must discipline yourself to live within the boundaries of today. It is in the present moment that I walk close to you, helping you carry your burdens. Keep your focus on My Presence in the present.' Thank you LORD! http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=32134 32134 Tue, 28 Feb 2012 07:38:00 +0000 Therefore a man leaves his father and mother and embraces his wife. They become one flesh. (Genesis 2:24, The message) Your wife/Your husband seems so different from you, I know. When you think on one level, she thinks on another. When you're certain this perspective matters most, he brings in another angle entirely. And you ask, 'How can I possibly love someone who is so different from me?' I think marriage is designed to call us out of ourselves and learn to love the 'different.' Put together in the closest situation imaginable—living side by side, sleeping in the same room, even, on occasion, sharing our bodies with each other—we are forced to respect and appreciate someone who is so radically different. We need to be called out of ourselves because, in truth, we are incomplete. Marriage shows us that we are not all there is; it calls us to [sacrificially serve] another, but also to find joy, happiness, and even ecstasy in another. Yes, it is difficult to love your spouse. But if you truly want to love God, look right now at the ring on your left hand, commit yourself to exploring anew what that ring represents, and love passionately, crazily, enduringly the person who put it there. Therefore a man leaves his father and mother and embraces his wife. They become one flesh. (Genesis 2:24, The message) Your wife/Your husband seems so different from you, I know. When you think on one level, she thinks on another. When you're certain this perspective matters most, he brings in another angle entirely. And you ask, 'How can I possibly love someone who is so different from me?' I think marriage is designed to call us out of ourselves and learn to love the 'different.' Put together in the closest situation imaginable—living side by side, sleeping in the same room, even, on occasion, sharing our bodies with each other—we are forced to respect and appreciate someone who is so radically different. We need to be called out of ourselves because, in truth, we are incomplete. Marriage shows us that we are not all there is; it calls us to [sacrificially serve] another, but also to find joy, happiness, and even ecstasy in another. Yes, it is difficult to love your spouse. But if you truly want to love God, look right now at the ring on your left hand, commit yourself to exploring anew what that ring represents, and love passionately, crazily, enduringly the person who put it there. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31752 31752 Sat, 25 Feb 2012 03:00:00 +0000 Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church—a love marked by giving, not getting. (Ephesians 5:25, The message) Although young men in Israel were called to serve God by fighting in wars, God did make one exception: 'If a man has recently married, he must not be sent to war or have any other duty laid on him. For one year he is to be free to stay at home and bring happiness to the wife he has married' (Deut. 24:5, NIV). In all my seminarian theology, I left little room for the thought that God would want me to devote myself to making my wife happy. My wife was there to join me as I evangelized, studied Scripture, taught younger believers, did 'the work of the ministry.' The thought that God wants me to serve him by concentrating on making my wife happy was extraordinary. Although Deuteronomy 24:5 addresses just the first year of marriage, it's reasonable to assume that every husband should spend some time thinking about how to make his spouse happy—and celebrating the profound reality that making his spouse happy pleases God. On a very practical level, a husband who plots how to make his wife laugh every now and then is serving God. A husband who makes sacrifices so his wife can get the recreational time she needs is loving God. —Gary Thomas in Sacred Marriage Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church—a love marked by giving, not getting. (Ephesians 5:25, The message) Although young men in Israel were called to serve God by fighting in wars, God did make one exception: 'If a man has recently married, he must not be sent to war or have any other duty laid on him. For one year he is to be free to stay at home and bring happiness to the wife he has married' (Deut. 24:5, NIV). In all my seminarian theology, I left little room for the thought that God would want me to devote myself to making my wife happy. My wife was there to join me as I evangelized, studied Scripture, taught younger believers, did 'the work of the ministry.' The thought that God wants me to serve him by concentrating on making my wife happy was extraordinary. Although Deuteronomy 24:5 addresses just the first year of marriage, it's reasonable to assume that every husband should spend some time thinking about how to make his spouse happy—and celebrating the profound reality that making his spouse happy pleases God. On a very practical level, a husband who plots how to make his wife laugh every now and then is serving God. A husband who makes sacrifices so his wife can get the recreational time she needs is loving God. —Gary Thomas in Sacred Marriage http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31751 31751 Thu, 23 Feb 2012 03:00:00 +0000 Jesus replied, 'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' (Matthew 22:37-39) On one level, it's easy to love God, because God doesn't have bad breath. God doesn't reward kindness with evil. God doesn't make berating comments. He doesn't nag you 'half to death!' Loving God is easy, in a sense. But Jesus really let us have it when he attached our love for God with our love for other people. In the marriage context, we have absolutely no excuse. God lets us choose whom we're going to love. Because we get the choice and then find it difficult to carry out the love in practice, what grounds do we have to ever stop loving? God doesn't command us to get married; he offers it to us as an opportunity. Once we enter the marriage relationship, we cannot love God without loving our spouse as well. Divorce represents our inability to hold to Jesus' command. It's giving up on what Jesus calls us to do. Yes, your spouse might be difficult to love at times, but [grasp this truth]: marriage teaches us how to love. It is God's training ground, his gymnasium. Allow your marriage relationship to stretch your capacity to love—to teach you to be a Christian. Use marriage as a practice court, where you learn to accept your spouse and serve him or her. Jesus replied, 'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' (Matthew 22:37-39) On one level, it's easy to love God, because God doesn't have bad breath. God doesn't reward kindness with evil. God doesn't make berating comments. He doesn't nag you 'half to death!' Loving God is easy, in a sense. But Jesus really let us have it when he attached our love for God with our love for other people. In the marriage context, we have absolutely no excuse. God lets us choose whom we're going to love. Because we get the choice and then find it difficult to carry out the love in practice, what grounds do we have to ever stop loving? God doesn't command us to get married; he offers it to us as an opportunity. Once we enter the marriage relationship, we cannot love God without loving our spouse as well. Divorce represents our inability to hold to Jesus' command. It's giving up on what Jesus calls us to do. Yes, your spouse might be difficult to love at times, but [grasp this truth]: marriage teaches us how to love. It is God's training ground, his gymnasium. Allow your marriage relationship to stretch your capacity to love—to teach you to be a Christian. Use marriage as a practice court, where you learn to accept your spouse and serve him or her. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31750 31750 Mon, 20 Feb 2012 03:00:00 +0000 'If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that.' (Matthew 5:46, The Message) Katherine Anne Porter writes, 'Love must be learned, and learned again and again; there is no end to it. Hate needs no instruction, but waits only to be provoked.' Love is not a natural response that gushes out of us unbidden. But hate is always ready to naturally spring forth, like the 'Old Faithful' geyser at Yellowstone National Park. Christian love, on the other hand, must be chased after, aspired to, and practiced. The popular culture completely misunderstands this principle. One of the cruelest and most self-condemning remarks I've ever heard is the one men often use when they leave their wives for another woman: 'The truth is, I've never loved you.' This is meant to be an attack on the wife—saying in effect, 'The truth is, I've never found you lovable.' But put it in a Christian context, it's a confession of the man's utter failure to be a Christian. If he hasn't loved his wife, it is not his wife's fault, but his. Jesus calls us to love even the unlovable—even our enemies!—so a man who says 'I've never loved you' is a man who is saying essentially this: 'I've never acted like a Christian.' —Gary Thomas in Sacred Marriage 'If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that.' (Matthew 5:46, The Message) Katherine Anne Porter writes, 'Love must be learned, and learned again and again; there is no end to it. Hate needs no instruction, but waits only to be provoked.' Love is not a natural response that gushes out of us unbidden. But hate is always ready to naturally spring forth, like the 'Old Faithful' geyser at Yellowstone National Park. Christian love, on the other hand, must be chased after, aspired to, and practiced. The popular culture completely misunderstands this principle. One of the cruelest and most self-condemning remarks I've ever heard is the one men often use when they leave their wives for another woman: 'The truth is, I've never loved you.' This is meant to be an attack on the wife—saying in effect, 'The truth is, I've never found you lovable.' But put it in a Christian context, it's a confession of the man's utter failure to be a Christian. If he hasn't loved his wife, it is not his wife's fault, but his. Jesus calls us to love even the unlovable—even our enemies!—so a man who says 'I've never loved you' is a man who is saying essentially this: 'I've never acted like a Christian.' —Gary Thomas in Sacred Marriage http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31749 31749 Sat, 18 Feb 2012 03:00:00 +0000 The Love and War class that Patty and I are co-leading on Wednesday nights at our church has me thinking a lot more about marriage in general, and our marriage specifically. If you were a male believer around the time of Moses and Joshua, your job was to fight. As the Israelites entered the Promised Land, they were sometimes chastised for their cowardice and lethargy and their refusal to go into battle (see Josh. 18:3). 'Go into battle,' was the rallying cry from God for a long time. Jesus came with a new challenge—a far more difficult one. Someone once asked him what the greatest commandment was, and Jesus replied that there were two (see Matt. 22:37-39). It wasn't enough to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. If you really wanted to please God, Jesus said, you must love others. Marriage can be the gym in which our capacity to experience and express God's love is strengthened and further developed. To get there, we have to realize that human love and divine love aren't two separate oceans but rather one body of water with many tributaries. We show our love for God in part by loving our spouses well. The Love and War class that Patty and I are co-leading on Wednesday nights at our church has me thinking a lot more about marriage in general, and our marriage specifically. If you were a male believer around the time of Moses and Joshua, your job was to fight. As the Israelites entered the Promised Land, they were sometimes chastised for their cowardice and lethargy and their refusal to go into battle (see Josh. 18:3). 'Go into battle,' was the rallying cry from God for a long time. Jesus came with a new challenge—a far more difficult one. Someone once asked him what the greatest commandment was, and Jesus replied that there were two (see Matt. 22:37-39). It wasn't enough to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. If you really wanted to please God, Jesus said, you must love others. Marriage can be the gym in which our capacity to experience and express God's love is strengthened and further developed. To get there, we have to realize that human love and divine love aren't two separate oceans but rather one body of water with many tributaries. We show our love for God in part by loving our spouses well. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31748 31748 Thu, 16 Feb 2012 03:00:00 +0000 God has a purpose for each one of us. Some of us know our purpose while others are still in the process of uncovering it. When we know our purpose, God uses it to enable us to renew His kingdom, but in order to renew His kingdom; we must continually renew our purpose and ourselves. Don't let God's purpose for your life become stale and feel old to you. Allow God to renew His purpose in such a way that it feels as fresh as the day you first uncovered it. Ask Him to expand your purpose and show you specifically the ways you can contribute to renewing His kingdom in the same way He has renewed your life and purpose. God has a purpose for each one of us. Some of us know our purpose while others are still in the process of uncovering it. When we know our purpose, God uses it to enable us to renew His kingdom, but in order to renew His kingdom; we must continually renew our purpose and ourselves. Don't let God's purpose for your life become stale and feel old to you. Allow God to renew His purpose in such a way that it feels as fresh as the day you first uncovered it. Ask Him to expand your purpose and show you specifically the ways you can contribute to renewing His kingdom in the same way He has renewed your life and purpose. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31677 31677 Tue, 14 Feb 2012 03:00:00 +0000 Leadership can be difficult. Anyone who has led a group or organization knows that tough times and tough decisions are inevitable. The issue is not whether leaders will find themselves under pressure; the issue is how leaders will handle pressure. Here are ten suggestions for your consideration: 1. Avoid spiritual slippage. Many effective leaders are incredibly focused on their work, so much so that they neglect their spiritual disciplines. Leaders under pressure must depend more on prayer, they must spend more time in the Word, and they must realize their wisdom and their strength come from God. 2. Avoid family slippage. Busy leaders sometimes neglect their families. Such leaders under pressure often disregard the most important people in their lives. Great leaders must first be the right kind of leader in their homes. 3. Avoid physical slippage. I recently had a physical, and my physician once again reminded me that I needed to remain diligent in my exercising and eating habits. He noted there is no way I can sustain the energy necessary to cope with the pressures of my job unless I am taking care of my body. 4. Love those you lead. Sometimes, the pressure in leadership is great because we don't first love those we lead. Indeed, we aren't really leaders at all unless we demonstrate Christ's love to those who are under our leadership. 5. Be transparent. It takes so much more unnecessary energy to be someone we're not. Transparency means we are authentic and lead with integrity. 6. Admit and deal with mistakes quickly. Last year our staff participated in a church consultation, and I had to deal with some tough issues. We admitted our mistakes and moved on. If we postpone tough decisions or if we do not own up to our mistakes, the pressure will only get worse. 7. Use fun and levity as a balance. Many leaders take themselves too seriously. We need to lighten up and laugh more. A truly joyous person can withstand almost any pressure. 8. Have a longer-term perspective. The crisis of the moment often makes us feel as if our world is about to end. But leaders who understand that most issues will take care of themselves in time are better equipped to deal with the seemingly heavy burdens of the present. 9. Have an outside interest as an alternative focus. I have three major outside interests: my family, reading, and gardening. When I am at home with my family, sharing a meal, for example, I feel relaxed. When I'm out in the garden all of my internal pressure seems to dissipate. Leadership is indeed difficult. And good leaders will always feel pressures and have problems they must address. But the most effective leaders will deal in healthy ways with those pressures and, as a result, be healthier leaders themselves. Leadership can be difficult. Anyone who has led a group or organization knows that tough times and tough decisions are inevitable. The issue is not whether leaders will find themselves under pressure; the issue is how leaders will handle pressure. Here are ten suggestions for your consideration: 1. Avoid spiritual slippage. Many effective leaders are incredibly focused on their work, so much so that they neglect their spiritual disciplines. Leaders under pressure must depend more on prayer, they must spend more time in the Word, and they must realize their wisdom and their strength come from God. 2. Avoid family slippage. Busy leaders sometimes neglect their families. Such leaders under pressure often disregard the most important people in their lives. Great leaders must first be the right kind of leader in their homes. 3. Avoid physical slippage. I recently had a physical, and my physician once again reminded me that I needed to remain diligent in my exercising and eating habits. He noted there is no way I can sustain the energy necessary to cope with the pressures of my job unless I am taking care of my body. 4. Love those you lead. Sometimes, the pressure in leadership is great because we don't first love those we lead. Indeed, we aren't really leaders at all unless we demonstrate Christ's love to those who are under our leadership. 5. Be transparent. It takes so much more unnecessary energy to be someone we're not. Transparency means we are authentic and lead with integrity. 6. Admit and deal with mistakes quickly. Last year our staff participated in a church consultation, and I had to deal with some tough issues. We admitted our mistakes and moved on. If we postpone tough decisions or if we do not own up to our mistakes, the pressure will only get worse. 7. Use fun and levity as a balance. Many leaders take themselves too seriously. We need to lighten up and laugh more. A truly joyous person can withstand almost any pressure. 8. Have a longer-term perspective. The crisis of the moment often makes us feel as if our world is about to end. But leaders who understand that most issues will take care of themselves in time are better equipped to deal with the seemingly heavy burdens of the present. 9. Have an outside interest as an alternative focus. I have three major outside interests: my family, reading, and gardening. When I am at home with my family, sharing a meal, for example, I feel relaxed. When I'm out in the garden all of my internal pressure seems to dissipate. Leadership is indeed difficult. And good leaders will always feel pressures and have problems they must address. But the most effective leaders will deal in healthy ways with those pressures and, as a result, be healthier leaders themselves. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31590 31590 Sun, 12 Feb 2012 03:00:00 +0000 I am worn out from sobbing. All night I flood my bed with weeping, drenching it with my tears. (Psalm 6:6 NLT) Pouring out his heart with tears, David was completely honest with God. We can be honest with God even when we are filled with anger or despair because God knows us thoroughly and wants the very best for us. Anger may result in rash outward acts or turning inward toward depression. But because we trust in our all-powerful God, we don't have to be victims of circumstance or be weighted down by the guilt of sin. When I am honest with God, he helps me turn my attention from myself to him and his mercy. Then I begin to see my circumstances more clearly, and I realize this is not all about me. My eyes begin to lift and the needs and concerns of those around me, and those whom God puts in my orbit, become more important. I am worn out from sobbing. All night I flood my bed with weeping, drenching it with my tears. (Psalm 6:6 NLT) Pouring out his heart with tears, David was completely honest with God. We can be honest with God even when we are filled with anger or despair because God knows us thoroughly and wants the very best for us. Anger may result in rash outward acts or turning inward toward depression. But because we trust in our all-powerful God, we don't have to be victims of circumstance or be weighted down by the guilt of sin. When I am honest with God, he helps me turn my attention from myself to him and his mercy. Then I begin to see my circumstances more clearly, and I realize this is not all about me. My eyes begin to lift and the needs and concerns of those around me, and those whom God puts in my orbit, become more important. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31550 31550 Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:00:00 +0000 Oh! to be like Thee, blessed Redeemer,This is my constant longing and prayer;Gladly I'll forfeit all of earth's treasures,Jesus, Thy perfect likeness to wear. Refrain:Oh! to be like Thee, oh! to be like Thee,Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art;Come in Thy sweetness, come in Thy fullness;Stamp Thine own image deep on my heart. Oh! to be like Thee, full of compassion,Loving, forgiving, tender and kind,Helping the helpless, cheering the fainting,Seeking the wand'ring sinner to find. Oh! to be like Thee, lowly in spirit,Holy and harmless, patient and brave;Meekly enduring cruel reproaches,Willing to suffer, others to save. Oh! to be like Thee, Lord, I am coming,Now to receive th' anointing divine;All that I am and have I am bringing,Lord, from this moment all shall be Thine. Oh! to be like Thee, while I am pleading,Pour out Thy Spirit, fill with Thy love,Make me a temple meet for Thy dwelling,Fit me for life and Heaven above. Oh! to be like Thee, blessed Redeemer,This is my constant longing and prayer;Gladly I'll forfeit all of earth's treasures,Jesus, Thy perfect likeness to wear. Refrain:Oh! to be like Thee, oh! to be like Thee,Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art;Come in Thy sweetness, come in Thy fullness;Stamp Thine own image deep on my heart. Oh! to be like Thee, full of compassion,Loving, forgiving, tender and kind,Helping the helpless, cheering the fainting,Seeking the wand'ring sinner to find. Oh! to be like Thee, lowly in spirit,Holy and harmless, patient and brave;Meekly enduring cruel reproaches,Willing to suffer, others to save. Oh! to be like Thee, Lord, I am coming,Now to receive th' anointing divine;All that I am and have I am bringing,Lord, from this moment all shall be Thine. Oh! to be like Thee, while I am pleading,Pour out Thy Spirit, fill with Thy love,Make me a temple meet for Thy dwelling,Fit me for life and Heaven above. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31521 31521 Wed, 8 Feb 2012 07:15:00 +0000 Leadership is the most commonly used word when it comes down to the success of an organization, product, group, or team. No matter how you slice the success pie, the success pieces all boil down to leadership. There are countless books about how to be a successful leader, 21 laws of leadership, how to go from good to great, and the list goes on and on. People thrive on learning about leadership; the fact that John Maxwell has sold over 19 million books is a clear indication of such. There are many reasons that contribute to the success of a leader and just as many reasons for why they fail. I am a firm believer that you can learn as much from your failures and working around poor leadership as you can successful leadership. Scott Williams gives four memorable reasons for leadership failure and how you can learn from it. Why do leaders FAIL? Below is a list of 4 memorable reasons leaders FAIL in an easy to remember acronym. 1. Fake A leader who attempts to be someone they're not instead of simply being themselves will always have a difficult time succeeding; at some point, it just catches up to them. This also applies to the leader that has a different face, different persona, different tone, and different everything when certain people are around. 2. Attitude One of the primary reasons that a leader fails is because of a poor, negative, or a no-can-do attitude. If a leader thinks he can fly and has a positive can-do attitude, even though they may not be able to fly, they will come close. The reason why attitude is important is that the leader's attitude will rub off on their team members and their followers. The outward negative attitude is generally a sign of internal struggles, challenges, or insecurities. Leaders with bad attitudes fail! 3. Integrity If a leader doesn't exhibit a high degree of integrity, they will fail. The integrity issues will either catch up to them (what's done in the dark, will come to light) or those that follow them won't respect them. If team members or followers don't respect the leader, it puts the leader in the place of pushing a snowball up hill…it's a difficult task. Remember: Integrity is doing the right thing, even when nobody is watching. The recent failure episodes of the Herman Cains and Jerry Sanduskys of the world demonstrate how the lack of integrity will always lead to failure of the leader. Unfortunately, it demonstrates that leadership failures can leave a trail of wounded followers behind. Leaders who lack integrity Fail! 4. Lacking Although everyone has potential for some degree of leadership in them, the bottom line is that some leaders fail because they are either: a.) Not the leader they think they are, or b.) Promoted above their leadership capacity/leadership role has outgrown them, or c.) Not a visionary, or d.) Not a leader at all! They are lacking what it takes! Remember: Just because someone has an office, role, title, or responsibility doesn't mean they are a leader. Leadership is an art, a skill, a craft, a gift… and it must be developed! A leader must have the ability to inspire people to do more, be more, and go farther. If a leader lacks genuine followers or lacks what it takes to be a leader, they aren't leading; they are simply going on a walk. Scott Williams served as a key leader and Campus Pastor for LifeChurch.tv. He is the Chief Solutions Officer for Nxt Level Solutions, a consulting company he founded to help businesses, non-profits and individuals with both internal and external growth. Leadership is the most commonly used word when it comes down to the success of an organization, product, group, or team. No matter how you slice the success pie, the success pieces all boil down to leadership. There are countless books about how to be a successful leader, 21 laws of leadership, how to go from good to great, and the list goes on and on. People thrive on learning about leadership; the fact that John Maxwell has sold over 19 million books is a clear indication of such. There are many reasons that contribute to the success of a leader and just as many reasons for why they fail. I am a firm believer that you can learn as much from your failures and working around poor leadership as you can successful leadership. Scott Williams gives four memorable reasons for leadership failure and how you can learn from it. Why do leaders FAIL? Below is a list of 4 memorable reasons leaders FAIL in an easy to remember acronym. 1. Fake A leader who attempts to be someone they're not instead of simply being themselves will always have a difficult time succeeding; at some point, it just catches up to them. This also applies to the leader that has a different face, different persona, different tone, and different everything when certain people are around. 2. Attitude One of the primary reasons that a leader fails is because of a poor, negative, or a no-can-do attitude. If a leader thinks he can fly and has a positive can-do attitude, even though they may not be able to fly, they will come close. The reason why attitude is important is that the leader's attitude will rub off on their team members and their followers. The outward negative attitude is generally a sign of internal struggles, challenges, or insecurities. Leaders with bad attitudes fail! 3. Integrity If a leader doesn't exhibit a high degree of integrity, they will fail. The integrity issues will either catch up to them (what's done in the dark, will come to light) or those that follow them won't respect them. If team members or followers don't respect the leader, it puts the leader in the place of pushing a snowball up hill…it's a difficult task. Remember: Integrity is doing the right thing, even when nobody is watching. The recent failure episodes of the Herman Cains and Jerry Sanduskys of the world demonstrate how the lack of integrity will always lead to failure of the leader. Unfortunately, it demonstrates that leadership failures can leave a trail of wounded followers behind. Leaders who lack integrity Fail! 4. Lacking Although everyone has potential for some degree of leadership in them, the bottom line is that some leaders fail because they are either: a.) Not the leader they think they are, or b.) Promoted above their leadership capacity/leadership role has outgrown them, or c.) Not a visionary, or d.) Not a leader at all! They are lacking what it takes! Remember: Just because someone has an office, role, title, or responsibility doesn't mean they are a leader. Leadership is an art, a skill, a craft, a gift… and it must be developed! A leader must have the ability to inspire people to do more, be more, and go farther. If a leader lacks genuine followers or lacks what it takes to be a leader, they aren't leading; they are simply going on a walk. Scott Williams served as a key leader and Campus Pastor for LifeChurch.tv. He is the Chief Solutions Officer for Nxt Level Solutions, a consulting company he founded to help businesses, non-profits and individuals with both internal and external growth. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31416 31416 Sun, 5 Feb 2012 03:00:00 +0000 I read something the other from the pen of John Piper that is worth reposting in my blog. I was so convicted when I read this. Here you go: What should you do if you know someone who seems to be more excited about movies than Jesus? Many professing Christians give little evidence of valuing Jesus more than the latest movie they have seen. Or the latest clothing they bought. Or the latest app they downloaded. Or the latest game they watched. Something is amiss. We are not God and cannot judge with certainty and precision what's wrong. There is a glitch somewhere. Perhaps a blindness going in, a spiritual deadness at heart, or a blockage coming out. Or some combination. Christ doesn't appear supremely valuable. Or isn't felt as supremely valuable. Or can't be spoken of as supremely valuable. Or some combination. Here's my suggestion. Instead of dampening their enthusiasm for movies, clothing, apps, and events, let that go as an expression of God-given personality. Instead, model expressive joy in Jesus. Over time, if there is no resonance from their heart with your joy, query them humbly: I love your enthusiasm for the things you get excited about. You're so free and expressive about good movies and nice clothes and cool apps. It seems odd to me that you don't seem to be as expressive about the way you feel about Jesus and what he's done for us. Have you thought about why that might be? The point of this query is to help them see that the problem is not joyfully loving good created things. The problem is the apparent absence of similar affections for Christ. If similar affections for Jesus are not possible, then the specter of idolatry becomes serious. But they may sense this themselves without your having to start with that indictment, if you draw their attention not to the excitement that's there, but to what's missing. We don't want them to lose their exuberance about anything good. We want Christ to be supreme in their hearts so that all their exuberance comes under him and for his sake. When Jesus is felt as supremely valuable in our hearts, all other values gradually become properly ordered and purified. May the Lord give you great courage and wisdom as you help people awaken to the supreme value of Jesus. I read something the other from the pen of John Piper that is worth reposting in my blog. I was so convicted when I read this. Here you go: What should you do if you know someone who seems to be more excited about movies than Jesus? Many professing Christians give little evidence of valuing Jesus more than the latest movie they have seen. Or the latest clothing they bought. Or the latest app they downloaded. Or the latest game they watched. Something is amiss. We are not God and cannot judge with certainty and precision what's wrong. There is a glitch somewhere. Perhaps a blindness going in, a spiritual deadness at heart, or a blockage coming out. Or some combination. Christ doesn't appear supremely valuable. Or isn't felt as supremely valuable. Or can't be spoken of as supremely valuable. Or some combination. Here's my suggestion. Instead of dampening their enthusiasm for movies, clothing, apps, and events, let that go as an expression of God-given personality. Instead, model expressive joy in Jesus. Over time, if there is no resonance from their heart with your joy, query them humbly: I love your enthusiasm for the things you get excited about. You're so free and expressive about good movies and nice clothes and cool apps. It seems odd to me that you don't seem to be as expressive about the way you feel about Jesus and what he's done for us. Have you thought about why that might be? The point of this query is to help them see that the problem is not joyfully loving good created things. The problem is the apparent absence of similar affections for Christ. If similar affections for Jesus are not possible, then the specter of idolatry becomes serious. But they may sense this themselves without your having to start with that indictment, if you draw their attention not to the excitement that's there, but to what's missing. We don't want them to lose their exuberance about anything good. We want Christ to be supreme in their hearts so that all their exuberance comes under him and for his sake. When Jesus is felt as supremely valuable in our hearts, all other values gradually become properly ordered and purified. May the Lord give you great courage and wisdom as you help people awaken to the supreme value of Jesus. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31325 31325 Fri, 3 Feb 2012 03:00:00 +0000 Many people in our church family have selected a Bible Reading Plan for 2012. I want to encourage everyone today: Don't rest on past reading. Read your Bible more and more every year. Read it whether you feel like reading it or not. And pray without ceasing that the joy return and pleasures increase. Three reasons this is not legalism: 1. You are confessing your lack of desire as sin, and pleading as a helpless child for the desire you long to have. Legalists don't cry like that. They strut. 2.You are reading out of desperation for the effects of this heavenly medicine. Bible-reading is not a cure for a bad conscience; it's chemo for your cancer. Legalists feel better because the box is checked. Saints feel better when their blindness lifts, and they see Jesus in the word. Let's get real. We are desperately sick with worldliness, and only the Holy Spirit, by the word of God, can cure this terminal disease. 3.It is not legalism because only justified people can see the preciousness and power of the Word of God. Legalists trudge with their Bibles on the path toward justification. Saints sit down in the shade of the cross and plead for the blood-bought pleasures. So let's give heed to Mr. Ryle and never grow weary of the slow, steady, growth that comes from the daily, disciplined, increasing, love affair with reading the Bible: 'Do not think you are getting no good from the Bible, merely because you do not see that good day by day. The greatest effects are by no means those which make the most noise, and are most easily observed. The greatest effects are often silent, quiet, and hard to detect at the time they are being produced. 'Think of the influence of the moon upon the earth, and of the air upon the human lungs. Remember how silently the dew falls, and how imperceptibly the grass grows. There may be far more doing than you think in your soul by your Bible-reading.' (J. C. Ryle, Practical Religion, 136) Many people in our church family have selected a Bible Reading Plan for 2012. I want to encourage everyone today: Don't rest on past reading. Read your Bible more and more every year. Read it whether you feel like reading it or not. And pray without ceasing that the joy return and pleasures increase. Three reasons this is not legalism: 1. You are confessing your lack of desire as sin, and pleading as a helpless child for the desire you long to have. Legalists don't cry like that. They strut. 2.You are reading out of desperation for the effects of this heavenly medicine. Bible-reading is not a cure for a bad conscience; it's chemo for your cancer. Legalists feel better because the box is checked. Saints feel better when their blindness lifts, and they see Jesus in the word. Let's get real. We are desperately sick with worldliness, and only the Holy Spirit, by the word of God, can cure this terminal disease. 3.It is not legalism because only justified people can see the preciousness and power of the Word of God. Legalists trudge with their Bibles on the path toward justification. Saints sit down in the shade of the cross and plead for the blood-bought pleasures. So let's give heed to Mr. Ryle and never grow weary of the slow, steady, growth that comes from the daily, disciplined, increasing, love affair with reading the Bible: 'Do not think you are getting no good from the Bible, merely because you do not see that good day by day. The greatest effects are by no means those which make the most noise, and are most easily observed. The greatest effects are often silent, quiet, and hard to detect at the time they are being produced. 'Think of the influence of the moon upon the earth, and of the air upon the human lungs. Remember how silently the dew falls, and how imperceptibly the grass grows. There may be far more doing than you think in your soul by your Bible-reading.' (J. C. Ryle, Practical Religion, 136) http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31324 31324 Wed, 1 Feb 2012 05:37:00 +0000 Several popular pastors on the internet have recently spoken out against the effectiveness of small groups. Although I have tremendous respect for these men and will always honour them, I disagree with their views of small groups. I still love small groups because: 1. They follow the early church model of meeting in homes. Acts 5:42 says, 'Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.' The church met in homes as well as the House of God. 2. They are a tremendous tool for discipleship. I prefer small groups for teaching certain content or topics because it gives people a chance to interact. I prefer small groups to 'adult Sunday School electives' simply because you don't have to build the expensive extra classroom space. 3. They get more people involved using their gifts of hospitality, teaching, exhortation, etc. 4. They engage the body of Christ in pastoral care. Instead of the pastors being the only ones who care for believers, small groups spread the load and utilize gifted lay people. Small groups and their leaders care for their own! 5. They build leaders. 'Nuff said. 6. Done well, they become a tremendous tool of retention. People want to be needed and known. Small groups make both possible. 7. They have unlimited meeting space. You can't run out of homes, restaurants, apartments, or coffee shops in which to meet. 8. They have unlimited meeting times. In today's busy world, a once-a-week discipleship opportunity will not work for the majority of your church. Small groups offer unlimited times to meet. 9. They have changed my life. Over the years, my small groups have been like extended family. God has used them to bless me immensely. I believe that life change happens best in small groups. Several popular pastors on the internet have recently spoken out against the effectiveness of small groups. Although I have tremendous respect for these men and will always honour them, I disagree with their views of small groups. I still love small groups because: 1. They follow the early church model of meeting in homes. Acts 5:42 says, 'Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.' The church met in homes as well as the House of God. 2. They are a tremendous tool for discipleship. I prefer small groups for teaching certain content or topics because it gives people a chance to interact. I prefer small groups to 'adult Sunday School electives' simply because you don't have to build the expensive extra classroom space. 3. They get more people involved using their gifts of hospitality, teaching, exhortation, etc. 4. They engage the body of Christ in pastoral care. Instead of the pastors being the only ones who care for believers, small groups spread the load and utilize gifted lay people. Small groups and their leaders care for their own! 5. They build leaders. 'Nuff said. 6. Done well, they become a tremendous tool of retention. People want to be needed and known. Small groups make both possible. 7. They have unlimited meeting space. You can't run out of homes, restaurants, apartments, or coffee shops in which to meet. 8. They have unlimited meeting times. In today's busy world, a once-a-week discipleship opportunity will not work for the majority of your church. Small groups offer unlimited times to meet. 9. They have changed my life. Over the years, my small groups have been like extended family. God has used them to bless me immensely. I believe that life change happens best in small groups. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31247 31247 Sat, 28 Jan 2012 13:46:00 +0000 A lot of Heritage Park-ers and friends have selected a Bible Reading Plan for 2012. This morning I read something from Philip Yancey's pen that encouraged me in my own commitment to read the Bible each and every year. Here's what he had to say: I once resolved to read all 38 of Shakespeare's plays in one year. To my surprise, fulfilling the task seemed far more like entertainment than work. I expected to learn about Shakespeare's world and the people who inhabited it, but I found that Shakespeare mainly taught me about my world. I went through precisely that same process in encountering the Old Testament. Why does it spend so much time on temples, priests, and rules about sacrifices that no longer exist? How can we make sense of the Old Testament, and how does it apply to our lives today? As I worked past some of the barriers, I came to feel a need to read because of what it was teaching me. Eventually I found myself wanting to read those 39 books. They were satisfying a hunger in me that nothing else had. They taught me about life with God. The Old Testament speaks to our hunger. It gives an advanced course of 'Life With God,' expressed in a style both personal and passionate. The rewards offered do not come easily. All achievements require a similar process of hard work; we persevere because the rewards will come. - - - - - So, may I encourage you to pick up the Book and read? It will satisfy your hunger. The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; (Psalm 19:7 ESV) A lot of Heritage Park-ers and friends have selected a Bible Reading Plan for 2012. This morning I read something from Philip Yancey's pen that encouraged me in my own commitment to read the Bible each and every year. Here's what he had to say: I once resolved to read all 38 of Shakespeare's plays in one year. To my surprise, fulfilling the task seemed far more like entertainment than work. I expected to learn about Shakespeare's world and the people who inhabited it, but I found that Shakespeare mainly taught me about my world. I went through precisely that same process in encountering the Old Testament. Why does it spend so much time on temples, priests, and rules about sacrifices that no longer exist? How can we make sense of the Old Testament, and how does it apply to our lives today? As I worked past some of the barriers, I came to feel a need to read because of what it was teaching me. Eventually I found myself wanting to read those 39 books. They were satisfying a hunger in me that nothing else had. They taught me about life with God. The Old Testament speaks to our hunger. It gives an advanced course of 'Life With God,' expressed in a style both personal and passionate. The rewards offered do not come easily. All achievements require a similar process of hard work; we persevere because the rewards will come. - - - - - So, may I encourage you to pick up the Book and read? It will satisfy your hunger. The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; (Psalm 19:7 ESV) http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31135 31135 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:00:00 +0000 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! (1 Corinthians 10:12, NIV) Circumstances often trigger our sin and shape the form it takes, but they don't cause it. The root cause is always our hearts and their sinful desires. We sin because we believe lies about God, instead of believing God's Word, and because we worship idols instead of God. If the problem were simply with our eyes, then the solution would be to avert our eyes. But if the problem begins in the heart, then the solution must be much more fundamental. So you need to ask yourself: When do I turn to porn? What's going on in my heart when I turn to porn? You might find it helpful to keep a journal. When are you tempted? How are you feeling? What's on your mind? This may help you to see what's going on when you struggle. You may begin to see what porn 'provides' for you. Does it offer an escape? Is it an act of revenge? Is it a way of feeling powerful or loved or wanted? Is it a reward you give to yourself? You can then begin to identify the false promises that porn makes to you. And then you can also identify the liberating truth of the gospel that can begin to set you free. —Tim Chester in Closing the Window So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! (1 Corinthians 10:12, NIV) Circumstances often trigger our sin and shape the form it takes, but they don't cause it. The root cause is always our hearts and their sinful desires. We sin because we believe lies about God, instead of believing God's Word, and because we worship idols instead of God. If the problem were simply with our eyes, then the solution would be to avert our eyes. But if the problem begins in the heart, then the solution must be much more fundamental. So you need to ask yourself: When do I turn to porn? What's going on in my heart when I turn to porn? You might find it helpful to keep a journal. When are you tempted? How are you feeling? What's on your mind? This may help you to see what's going on when you struggle. You may begin to see what porn 'provides' for you. Does it offer an escape? Is it an act of revenge? Is it a way of feeling powerful or loved or wanted? Is it a reward you give to yourself? You can then begin to identify the false promises that porn makes to you. And then you can also identify the liberating truth of the gospel that can begin to set you free. —Tim Chester in Closing the Window http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31078 31078 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 03:00:00 +0000 Tim Chester is codirector of The Porterbrook Network, which equips individuals and churches to rediscover their mission, and director of the Northern Training Institute, which provides integrated theological and missional training for church leaders. His books include Good News to the Poor, The Message of Prayer, Total Church, You Can Change, and Closing the Window—the book from which this little blurb has been adapted. He and his family live in Sheffield, England. What he Said … Porn Is Pleasurable Christians usually feel a sense of shame about their use of porn. They know it's wrong. They tell you they want to stop. Except, of course, they don't stop. They still enjoy porn. Andrew Comiskey of Desert Stream Ministries says that many men he's counseled have recognized their sin, but 'the deep recesses of their hearts still contained the will and desire to sin; at some basic level, they remained open and even playful to union with evil.' The reality is that often we dislike the shame and the consequences of sin, but we still like the sin itself. We dislike the shame of porn, but in reality we still want to view it. That's because porn is pleasurable. Let's be honest about that. If we pretend otherwise, we'll never fight it successfully. People like watching porn—otherwise they wouldn't watch. The Bible talks about the pleasures of sin. They're temporary. They're dangerous. They're empty pleasures, compared with the glory of God. I (Garth) just hate the fact that so many of my brothers in Christ are living in shame when it comes to pornography. So many men view porn in spite of what it does to their minds, their consciences, their walk with God.... So I'm asking my readers to stand with me today and pray for men to be released, set free, victorious and proud to be sons of the Most High God. Tim Chester is codirector of The Porterbrook Network, which equips individuals and churches to rediscover their mission, and director of the Northern Training Institute, which provides integrated theological and missional training for church leaders. His books include Good News to the Poor, The Message of Prayer, Total Church, You Can Change, and Closing the Window—the book from which this little blurb has been adapted. He and his family live in Sheffield, England. What he Said … Porn Is Pleasurable Christians usually feel a sense of shame about their use of porn. They know it's wrong. They tell you they want to stop. Except, of course, they don't stop. They still enjoy porn. Andrew Comiskey of Desert Stream Ministries says that many men he's counseled have recognized their sin, but 'the deep recesses of their hearts still contained the will and desire to sin; at some basic level, they remained open and even playful to union with evil.' The reality is that often we dislike the shame and the consequences of sin, but we still like the sin itself. We dislike the shame of porn, but in reality we still want to view it. That's because porn is pleasurable. Let's be honest about that. If we pretend otherwise, we'll never fight it successfully. People like watching porn—otherwise they wouldn't watch. The Bible talks about the pleasures of sin. They're temporary. They're dangerous. They're empty pleasures, compared with the glory of God. I (Garth) just hate the fact that so many of my brothers in Christ are living in shame when it comes to pornography. So many men view porn in spite of what it does to their minds, their consciences, their walk with God.... So I'm asking my readers to stand with me today and pray for men to be released, set free, victorious and proud to be sons of the Most High God. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31077 31077 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 06:47:00 +0000 Joseph was sold into slavery by his own brothers. He was shipped off to Egypt where he worked for one of Pharaoh's officials, the captain of the guard. That man's wife wanted him, and when he refused, she cried 'rape!' Genesis 39:20-21 says, 'Joseph's master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king's prisoners were confined. But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.' It's important for us to remember that when we struggle to make the right decision and are punished for it, God is still there with us, still there for us. He can take that evil and make good out of it. We can trust Him! Joseph faced a very tempting situation but had the discipline to flee. Doing what was right landed him in prison. Still, he not only clung to the Lord; he also influenced others during his captivity. Likewise, we need to trust Jesus in our circumstances. His sky-high perspective trumps our ground-zero view every time. He can see far beyond your obstacles and problems. So hang on to Jesus as you wait for your reward! It is coming! Believe. Hope. Stay faithful. And watch for Him to work! Joseph was sold into slavery by his own brothers. He was shipped off to Egypt where he worked for one of Pharaoh's officials, the captain of the guard. That man's wife wanted him, and when he refused, she cried 'rape!' Genesis 39:20-21 says, 'Joseph's master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king's prisoners were confined. But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.' It's important for us to remember that when we struggle to make the right decision and are punished for it, God is still there with us, still there for us. He can take that evil and make good out of it. We can trust Him! Joseph faced a very tempting situation but had the discipline to flee. Doing what was right landed him in prison. Still, he not only clung to the Lord; he also influenced others during his captivity. Likewise, we need to trust Jesus in our circumstances. His sky-high perspective trumps our ground-zero view every time. He can see far beyond your obstacles and problems. So hang on to Jesus as you wait for your reward! It is coming! Believe. Hope. Stay faithful. And watch for Him to work! http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=31041 31041 Sat, 21 Jan 2012 07:12:00 +0000 Jefferson Bethke's 'I Hate Religion, but Love Jesus' YouTube video soared past 11 million views in its first week on the Internet. The 22-year-old poet/performer took time to answer questions for ChurchLeaders.com this weekend in a telephone interview. Here are five key questions—and Jeff Bethke's direct answers—that reveal the heart behind the poem. ChurchLeaders.com: Can you clarify your definition of religion? Jeff Bethke: I would love to. Essentially, I come from a Mars Hill context, because that's my home church. I didn't realize this, but outside Mars Hill, religion means different things to other people. Inside Mars Hill, the word 'religion' is pretty much synonymous with hypocrisy, legalism, self-righteousness, and self-justification. That was really the heart of my definition of that word. If you went through the entire poem and replaced the word religion with either legalism or self-righteousness or hypocrisy, it would have not changed my intention or the heart of that poem whatsoever. To me, those words are interchangeable. If you were going to do the performance piece again--knowing that you were going to get so much traffic--would you change the wording? Would you have changed the word religion or any other word that was in the poem? I don't know. That's a really tough question. Part of me says yes; part of me says no. Part of me says yes simply because I realize the reaction to it made people shut it off without hearing, and I never want to close people's ears by a simple word. But at the same time, I think that was also the word that sparked what it did. [The poem] had a word that resonates; it has a deep influence and a deep history, so I struggle: I say yes and no. Part of me says yes because I want people to hear the true heart of our message and see the difference between grace and legalism, but part of me says no just because I think the power of that word is what made it do what it did. In the poem, you say, 'Religion is behavior modification.' Doesn't a relationship with Jesus modify our behavior? Yes. I 100% agree with that sentiment. That's something that I wasn't expecting to hear back. But as I say in the line [in the poem], 'Religion is just behavior modification, like a long list of chores...' because Jesus isn't just behavior modification; he's also a heart change that leads to behavior modification. Religion picks the bad fruit off the tree when Jesus just plants a new tree. That's essentially the crux, the root, and the core of my poem. Do you think Jesus hates religion (as you define it)? I think there's a spot of hatred, because any of those things in regards to legalism, self-righteousness, or justification are saying, 'Jesus, your sacrifice was worthless; what you did had no reason and has no purpose,'...so people who try to earn it are slapping and spitting in his face and dragging his sacrifice through the dirt. I think that's why he has a problem with it. In your poem, you say, 'The church is a hospital.' What about the other functions of the church: gathering for worship or the role communion and the preaching of the word? I'm 22 years old. I'm not an expert; I don't have a doctorate in theology. I have an extreme passion for Jesus. He saved me about four years ago. I love spreading his word. But I can tell you in four years I've only touched the surface of the character and nature of God and what he's revealed about other things in Scripture, like the nature of the church. The church is the body, which means that we are to administer not only healing but also forgiveness. Also the breaking of bread and wine, also the gathering of saints—the fellowship of believers coming together because there is a unity and a different kind of spirit when we all come together rather than individual, American Christianity...I think 1 Corinthians is the perfect study of what the church is because it also shows it can administer church discipline and restoration and healing. The church is the manifest body of Jesus, and that encompasses a wide range of activities, roles, and responsibilities, but they all collide with the one purpose of making Jesus famous and holding Him up as supremely more glorious than anything on this Earth and in heaven. Jefferson Bethke's 'I Hate Religion, but Love Jesus' YouTube video soared past 11 million views in its first week on the Internet. The 22-year-old poet/performer took time to answer questions for ChurchLeaders.com this weekend in a telephone interview. Here are five key questions—and Jeff Bethke's direct answers—that reveal the heart behind the poem. ChurchLeaders.com: Can you clarify your definition of religion? Jeff Bethke: I would love to. Essentially, I come from a Mars Hill context, because that's my home church. I didn't realize this, but outside Mars Hill, religion means different things to other people. Inside Mars Hill, the word 'religion' is pretty much synonymous with hypocrisy, legalism, self-righteousness, and self-justification. That was really the heart of my definition of that word. If you went through the entire poem and replaced the word religion with either legalism or self-righteousness or hypocrisy, it would have not changed my intention or the heart of that poem whatsoever. To me, those words are interchangeable. If you were going to do the performance piece again--knowing that you were going to get so much traffic--would you change the wording? Would you have changed the word religion or any other word that was in the poem? I don't know. That's a really tough question. Part of me says yes; part of me says no. Part of me says yes simply because I realize the reaction to it made people shut it off without hearing, and I never want to close people's ears by a simple word. But at the same time, I think that was also the word that sparked what it did. [The poem] had a word that resonates; it has a deep influence and a deep history, so I struggle: I say yes and no. Part of me says yes because I want people to hear the true heart of our message and see the difference between grace and legalism, but part of me says no just because I think the power of that word is what made it do what it did. In the poem, you say, 'Religion is behavior modification.' Doesn't a relationship with Jesus modify our behavior? Yes. I 100% agree with that sentiment. That's something that I wasn't expecting to hear back. But as I say in the line [in the poem], 'Religion is just behavior modification, like a long list of chores...' because Jesus isn't just behavior modification; he's also a heart change that leads to behavior modification. Religion picks the bad fruit off the tree when Jesus just plants a new tree. That's essentially the crux, the root, and the core of my poem. Do you think Jesus hates religion (as you define it)? I think there's a spot of hatred, because any of those things in regards to legalism, self-righteousness, or justification are saying, 'Jesus, your sacrifice was worthless; what you did had no reason and has no purpose,'...so people who try to earn it are slapping and spitting in his face and dragging his sacrifice through the dirt. I think that's why he has a problem with it. In your poem, you say, 'The church is a hospital.' What about the other functions of the church: gathering for worship or the role communion and the preaching of the word? I'm 22 years old. I'm not an expert; I don't have a doctorate in theology. I have an extreme passion for Jesus. He saved me about four years ago. I love spreading his word. But I can tell you in four years I've only touched the surface of the character and nature of God and what he's revealed about other things in Scripture, like the nature of the church. The church is the body, which means that we are to administer not only healing but also forgiveness. Also the breaking of bread and wine, also the gathering of saints—the fellowship of believers coming together because there is a unity and a different kind of spirit when we all come together rather than individual, American Christianity...I think 1 Corinthians is the perfect study of what the church is because it also shows it can administer church discipline and restoration and healing. The church is the manifest body of Jesus, and that encompasses a wide range of activities, roles, and responsibilities, but they all collide with the one purpose of making Jesus famous and holding Him up as supremely more glorious than anything on this Earth and in heaven. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=30955 30955 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 07:49:00 +0000 What God has given us is all we need. We require nothing more. It's not a question of large supplies. It's just a question of the presence of God. I read Matthew 15 this morning. Seven loaves of bread and a few small fish. Four thousand hungry men, plus women and children. Put that all together and you have a lot of hungry people and very little food! But add Jesus to the scene, and you have all the ingredients for a miracle. You and I may not have much to offer, but he claims all we have. When we gladly give our all and unhesitatingly obey all his directions, there is nothing Jesus can't do in us and through us and for us and with us. Let us give everything to him today: our work, our thoughts, our plans, ourselves, our loved ones, our influence, our all - right into his hand. And then there will be nothing to worry about. What God has given us is all we need. We require nothing more. It's not a question of large supplies. It's just a question of the presence of God. I read Matthew 15 this morning. Seven loaves of bread and a few small fish. Four thousand hungry men, plus women and children. Put that all together and you have a lot of hungry people and very little food! But add Jesus to the scene, and you have all the ingredients for a miracle. You and I may not have much to offer, but he claims all we have. When we gladly give our all and unhesitatingly obey all his directions, there is nothing Jesus can't do in us and through us and for us and with us. Let us give everything to him today: our work, our thoughts, our plans, ourselves, our loved ones, our influence, our all - right into his hand. And then there will be nothing to worry about. http://www.hpac.org/index.cfm?i=1647&mid=25&blogid=353&comments=30859 30859 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 03:00:00 +0000