Christmas Greetings

As the clock winds its way past noon on the last work-day before Christmas, it is time to pass along some holiday greetings and wishes to you, my family and the three non-related readers of this blog.

This has been quite a year for us. Let me share some of the highlights with you (don't worry, there will be pictures, too!).

The new year began in church. We started the year as a church family, celebrating the Lord's Supper and reminding ourselves of the great sacrifice made on our behalf by the sinless Son of God.

In February, the Awana club held a Parent's Valentine Banquet, which was well-attended and greatly received. Many families took part; and we had the opportunity to meet some parents whose names we only knew from an Awana registration card.

Several work days were held at the church, beginning in the month of March (when the winter rains had ceased). Much was accomplished by these times of energy-exertion. There is still much to do; but the camaraderie and fellowship is a great way to spend the day in laboring.

April was a special month. Easter Sunday arrived with monsoon-like conditions. In spite of the adverse weather, a large number of folks attended the Easter Breakfast and Resurrection Sunday service. Also in April, our missionary representatives to Mongolia, Scott & Kristie Dean, came to report on their work. Their family was a delight to meet; Scott and I 'hit it off' splendidly over lunch at Chevy's. We are blessed to have such energetic folks partnering with us around the globe. The month ended with a jointly held youth rally in conjunction with First Baptist Community Church. The teens had a great time of fun in the gymnasium; and it proved a fruitful time of evangelism for many of our exchange students.

In May, the Ladies' Group underwent a name change. Now styled as W.O.W. (Women Of the Word), they held a Ladies' Brunch and invited the women of Berean Baptist Church in Fremont to join them. Dianne Clemons of First Baptist Community Church, Los Gatos was the special speaker. A Memorial Day luncheon was held at the church - another great time of BBQ'ed food!

June brought with it the Annual Business Meeting. What a joy it was to observe God at work, bringing together those who would serve our church family for the near future. A budget was passed, though we did not know how God would allow us to meet it. Also in June, one of our longest-tenured attenders passed away. We will miss Mr. Ernie Wold greatly; his funeral service was the first military funeral I had attended (much less taken part in) - and it was a poignant reminder of the brevity of life and the sacrifice our uniformed men and women have made.

July was Camp Week. Denise and I took a "working vacation" to Pilot Lake Camp in the Sierras. While she spoke to the girls each morning, I had the joy of preaching each evening to the camp population. We were joined by Rick and Mick Vingeulle who ably provided all the music and laughter associated with summer camp. We returned to the Bay Area to find it in the midst of an incredible heat wave. Our house was 98 degrees on the inside - so we went out for dinner instead! Throughout the summer, Denise led a Children's Summer Bible Adventure Club. This was a summer-long version of Daily Vacation Bible School; and was very well received.

In August, our family took a week-long vacation to Greer, South Carolina, to celebrate my parents' 40th anniversary. A wonderful time was enjoyed by all of us. We did a lot! Golf, train rides, touring, zoos, backyard picnics, you name it - we probably thought about it! It was also a great time to reconnect with some college friends and participate in our 15th Fantasy Football Draft in the same room with our friends. Shortly after returning from the East Coast, we headed West with Denise's family to Hawai'i. August and September seemed further apart when we were planning these trips! We enjoyed the island of Kaua'i immensely; and were thrilled to share it with my father-in-law's cousin, John Stratton. John has now been in every state, except Alaska! A highlight of our trip was playing golf with my 7-year old son; and having him beat me on a par-3 hole! Another highlight was joining in worship at the Kaua'i Baptist Temple in Nawilliwilli - and finding that one of our missionaries in Hayward is also supported by this dear church. What a small world!

Back to California we came; and September brought another opportunity to fellowship with one of our foreign representatives. Missionary David Potter, his wife, Jean and daughter, Ami were a great blessing to our hearts as they shared the incredible opportunities facing them in Pecs, Hungary. They have a wonderful problem: one pulpit and 7 individuals capable of filling it! We are praying that they will see other churches being planted.

October. Homecoming Sunday! This was the highlight of my year. You can read more about it here; but we are still rejoicing in what God was able to provide for our church from His good hand. The luncheon afterwards was a great time of rejoicing and marvelling at the wonderful God we serve.
In November, it was my joy to baptize two young ladies after hearing their profession of faith in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. In late November, the opportunity to purchase a home became available. We are still reeling at the quickness of the process. We helped a friend move into their home on one Saturday, and less than a month later, we were moving into our own home in the same vicinity. God truly blessed us with this home; and we are enjoying the thrills of discovery as we unpack boxes - some of which were still packed from our initial move to Sonora 8 years ago!

Now we are in December, wondering where the year went! It has been a full year; full of God's blessings that are so greatly undeserved, yet so greatly appreciated. From our family to yours: have a very merry Christmas, and may God bless you richly in 2007 as you bring honor and glory to His name.

Christmas in perspective

The Internet Centuri0n, Frank Turk, has written a thought-provoking series of articles on Christmas. I am giving you the links here so you can wander over his way to read them for yourself.

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6

On the move again . . .

52 weeks ago, our family moved to Hayward from a wonderful ministry in San Jose. We parted with tears in our eyes, a song in our heart, hope in our Savior, and rain in the skies. With help from two churches (one, our former; the other, our new church), we made the move successfully.

And now, we are doing it again. The church ministry is NOT changing, only the residence of this pastor. God has blessed us so richly; and in His provision, we have been allowed the privilege of home ownership. Eight years ago, when we came to California, I had mentally assented to the fact that I would never own my own home. I am convinced that each time I ran that through my brain, the Lord was shaking His head and saying "O ye of little faith."

I admit it: I am a man of little faith; but I am also a man with a GREAT GOD! This week, as preparations are made for our move (only 3 miles this time), the skies are once again overflowing with rain. But the song in our hearts is still there, too! What a Christmas present: our own home.

Sunday, we sang Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne, a hymn concerning the nature of the Savior's Incarnation. Somehow my joy is tempered by these words:

The foxes found rest
And the birds their nest
In the shade of the forest tree;
But Thy couch was the sod,
O Thou Son of God,
In the deserts of Galilee.

Lord, let me not forget that Christmas was a time when YOU were moving, too. What a Christmas present!

For unto us a child is born

December brings with it all the nostalgia and yuletide cheer that comes either naturally or forced upon us by Corporate America. But amid the hustle and bustle several moments of clarity have forced their way through the haze and fog of holiday consumerism.

My youngest son is fascinated with Handel's Messiah - especially the song "For unto us a child is born"; he is constantly singing it (with help from the Veggie Tales, of course). I find myself singing along with him quite often, as each of the titles of the Newborn King ring into my consciousness.

With all that playing in the background of my mind, we attended a young church attender's school Christmas chapel. His 3rd grade class was presenting the Christmas story; and hearing a room full of 8 year-olds reciting the Luke 2 passage was thrilling. One phrase jumped out of their recitation: "For unto you is born this day a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."

Messiah. From the beginning announcement to the shepherds, the news rang throughout the Judean hillside: Messiah has come! Emmanuel, God with us, is here. No longer will man have to wonder when God will come near - He has come near and now dwells among man. And this Savior is none other than the Messiah, the Promised One.

Christmas is about the Messiah coming to dwell with us. Celebrate the fact that God came near and made His habitation among us. Celebrate the victory He has provided over sin, death, and hell. Celebrate Him!

Our Great High Priest

This video is from the WorshipGod06 Conference Aug. 9-12, 2006. Ryan Ferguson is giving a memorized dramatic recitation of Hebrews 9 and 10 from the ESV Bible.

I pray it might impress upon you the great privilege we enjoy as believers and followers of Jesus Christ.

Have a great Thanksgiving weekend.

ONE; UNO; EINE

As our Sunday morning study in the book of John has progressed, I have been making the repeated point that the focus of the book, in fact the main and only point of the book, is that Jesus is exactly Who He claimed to be; and that this is a life-changing truth.

Can it be said any clearer or with any further emphasis? Frank Turk (the Internet Centuri0n) puts it ever so succinctly in this post. He rings the bell with a clarion tone that John has been sounding in his gospel.

Jesus Christ. The ONLY message we need. Nothing else is more important for the sinner; nothing else is more vital to the believer.

This is the message for our neighborhood; this is the message for our county and state (no matter how today's election falls out); this is the ONLY message worth spending our time, effort, money and life giving.

A Modern Parable

Tom Pryde, my good friend, blogging partner, fantasy football team co-owner, and fellow-pastor, is doing a great job of illustrating the importance of rules and parenting with his multi-part parable on fences. I am posting the links here to give you the privilege of enjoying them too.

Part One: The Other Side of the Fence

Part Two: Second Generation Fence-Building

Part Three: Fences or Windows?

He's not done yet, I don't think; so bookmark his blog and check back in a day or so to see if more installments have been made.

Family History comes to life

Today our family took an incredible field trip to the San Francisco Metreon, to view the Titanic exhibition. For me, this was a trip undertaken with great anticipation and just a little forboding. The events surrounding Titanic were more than just a "night to remember" or a horrible tragedy of the Gilded Age; Titanic and the White Star Line hold a place of prominence in our family.

My great-grandfather, Charles Frederick Woods, was a long-time employee of White Star Lines. In his capacity as ships printer, he was responsible for the communication of information while passengers were aboard ship. He would print the menus, see that the daily news bulletins were presented to the passengers, and act as liason between the ship's crew and passengers - ensuring that the message was delivered correctly and professionally.

He had his share of adventures, too. My grandfather used to tell of the time his father returned from one particularly exotic trip with a unique gift: a monkey. What child doesn't at one time or another wish for a monkey on which to blame all his own messiness? I grew up thinking that the Man in the Yellow Hat was my grandfather; and that Curious George was a story about his own pet simian.

Although White Star Line was an admirable and profitable employer, Great-grandfather had another dream that White Star could not fulfill: emigration. Eventually, the pull overcame the profit of employment, and Charles Woods gave notice of his resignation. Not wanting to lose such a valuable employee (their words, not mine; but who am I to argue?), the company made an attractive offer: stay for only 6 more months, and the company will pay you to work one leg of a voyage (Great Britian to USA) - and the family will be able to travel with you. To make the offer even sweeter, Charles was promised that his final voyage under the employ of WSL would take place on "the new ship."

What would you do? Charles' decision was already made. His house had been sold, his passage already booked. He could not stay any longer than originally intended. He and his wife Hannah and their family (including Charles Francis Woods - my grandfather, though only 6 at the time) took their passage to New York in 1911. The new ship, Titanic, began her voyage in April 1912; and you know her fate.

The exhibit I walked through today helped me connect the facts I knew from history books, and the stories I had heard from family in a way that I never imagined possible. The staff at RMS Titanic have done a superb job of presenting not only the story of Titanic; but recreating the era in which she moved. The subtle presences of creaking dock planks, the thrum of the engine room, the chill of the icy April Atlantic all helped bring events from 94 years ago into stark detail for me today.

The final artifact displayed is a 30,000 pound section of the outer bulkhead from Titanic's side - a section found scattered in the debris field. How amazing it was to see windows still in their portholes and brass that did not show the aging effects of time and water corrosion. And then, just before passing out the exit, was a smaller piece of the bulkhead - a piece designed to be touched by visitors. And touch it I did. I realize that what I was touching had no direct connection to my great-grandfather; but it was from the same era, and it was from the same company and profession as he. And in that moment, family history became just that much more of a reality for me.

A Time to Celebrate

Sunday, October 1, 1955 marked the beginning of a new venture in the Fairway Park community. Led by former lawman Elliott Paulsen, a group from Melrose Baptist Church in Oakland held the first church service of the newly christened Fairway Park Baptist Church.

Sunday, October 1, 2006 marked the 51st anniversary of God's work here in Fairway Park. Almost 100 members, former members, friends and loved ones gathered to rejoice in the faithfulness of God over the past half-century plus one year. Greetings were extended from former pastor Andrew Paz, and a time of celebration was held at the communion table as we remembered the work of One on behalf of us all that gave us a reason to meet together for the last 51 years.

Psalm 138 , a Celebration of Praise, was the focus of our consideration Sunday morning. David's praise was set before us as the example for our own rejoicing. We were encouraged to rejoice with Courageous Praise, reminded of a coming day of Corporate Praise, and emboldened with a Confident Praise knowing God would accomplish His purpose in our lives and ministry.

A joyous time of feasting was planned, but first . . . a business meeting. What place does a church business meeting have on Homecoming Anniversary Sunday? Well, there was a small financial matter to consider. WHAT!? Discussing finances on Homecoming Sunday?! You MUST be new to this!

Thank you, are you quite finished? Feel better now? Need a glass of water to calm your nerves? Maybe a moment to offer silent prayer on behalf of this freshman pastor? Allow me to continue.

Our business meeting was to discuss how we would allocate funds that God has graciously and wonderfully provdied for our church - over and above our budgeted projections. In fact, not only will these funds erase a deficit in our budget, but will allow us to have funds left over. See how this all fits into the theme of "rejoicing"?

One issue involved making final payment on some outstanding debts owed to members of our own church family. These payments were scheduled to be completed July 2008; but God made it possible for us to complete payment by July 2007! What a time of celebration it was to hear a hearty AYE in favor of the proposal. The motion was carried unanimously to pay off our debt early!

But wait, there's more. God, in His gracious and all-wise provision, allowed the funds to come in just the right timing that immediately after passing the motion to pay off those outstanding debts, the final checks were handed to the owed parties and we burned the promissory notes in celebration!

As the flames consumed the last remnants of our now-paid debts, my heart was consumed with praise and thanksgiving. The song burst from my lips "To God by the glory, great things He hath done!" and the congregation joined in full voice. "Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Let the earth hear His voice! Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Let the people rejoice!"

What a way to celebrate God's faithfulness and goodness to us these past 51 years. What a way to begin our next year of service to Him!

Just a few more days . . .

I have been keeping myself from posting, only because I have been busy planning for our church's 51st Anniversary Celebration and Homecoming.

Finishing touches are being placed, even as we speak. A great day has been planned. A wonderful celebration is expected. We are anticipating a church full of people who have come for one purpose: to glorify God and recite in each other's hearing what He has been doing among us.

Lots of surprises in store, too. More on that later - after the celebration!

In the world, but not of it

For a long time I envied my friends Joseph, Miriam, Hope, Grace, Melody, Charity, Mary, Nathan, Michael, Matthew, John, Thomas and Martha. These dear friends had their actual names found in the Bible. The closest I got was "whosoever" in John 3:16!

But in John 17:20, Jesus, praying for those He is about to leave, says "I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word." There it is! Jesus was praying for me, as I am one of those who believed as a result of the disciples' words about Jesus Christ.

The next verse asks that I would be united to the same purpose, goal and direction as Jesus Himself and the apostles: proclaiming the glory of God to a world that desires to hear nothing contrary to its beliefs. And what was Jesus' request for His disciples (and by extension for me as well)? That we not be taken out of the world, but protected from the evil one, according to verse 15.

Wouldn't it be better if we were kept from the world and its influences? Can I not show God's love without interacting with the unseemly sinful world? The simple answer is NO. As a disciple, my place is to be IN the world without becoming a part OF the world. I must not abandon my place in the world because God has not abandoned His interest in the world, see John 3:16 for proof of this.

So what is my task in this world that I am to be IN and yet OF which I am not to be? My responsibility is to remain in the world as a witness to the Truth of God's Word, not to withdraw from the world, or to disengage myself from the world, or (what would be worse) to be confused for the world. As I proclaim that witness, I must be prepared to receive all the hatred the world will direct toward me, knowing that I am protected by my Heavenly Father, who is acting in response to His Son's request.

Robert Murray McCheyne once stated "If I could hear Christ praying for me in the next room, I would not fear a thousand enemies. But distance makes no difference; He IS praying for me." With such prayers being offered on you behalf, go do what is right and pleasing to Him today.

Does life exist during football season?

One reader asked via email about the philosophy of sports. Specifically, “Why are sports important? Is it reasonable to give one’s life to interest in sports?” This is a great question and a timely one at that. For what it is worth, my fantasy football team won this week. But back to the question at hand: why are sports important?

First, a few areas NOT being discussed here. Yes, folks have a variety of interest that may or may not be understood by others. I am not discussing why some are sports fanatics. I also acknowledge that physical exercise IS profitable. I will also give a nod to the fact that many sports metaphors are used in Scripture. Yes, watching competition is enjoyable; and the better a person competes, the better they are to watch. Face it, would you rather watch Tiger Woods drive off the tee, or me? I guess if it had been a while since you had a really good laugh that left your sides aching and your eyes watering, you might choose to see my swing but that is your mean-spirited sadistic nature showing, isn’t it?

I want to discuss the seeming importance of sports. Notice the word “seeming” and its relationship to sports. I do not know of any area in the world where sports as a whole are more emphasized than here in the US. We devote every spare moment to it; create TV channels to watch others participate; organize leagues to meet with others who are just as enthused with a particular activity. The list goes on. A neutral observer (the proverbial alien dropped in without knowledge of our society) would come away with the impression that we are obsessed with sports and sporting. To what end? Our days are overscheduled, our children over-stimulated, our sidelines packed with over-worked, over-stressed parent / coaches all in the name of activity, sports and its benefit. May I politely ask, “What lasting benefit?” On rare occasions, life can be enriched by sports. But those are the exceptions, not the rule. Some use sports as a means of entry to presenting the gospel; but the sports are serving the gospel. Too often in society, all is subservient to the god of sport.

Another subject to ponder: why is it so important for “my” team to win at the expense of “their” team? It is always curious to hear the MVP thank their Creator for giving them the victory. Please do not misunderstand me, thanks ought to be given; but what about the loser? Did they not pray? Were their prayers not answered? My simplistic answer is this: God is glorifying Himself through various means; some of which are easier to comprehend than others.

How much effort should be devoted to sports? Again, principles of moderation and service come into play. When the line is crossed and activities are being served rather than serving a purpose in life, the activity needs to be curtailed. This serves for your little girl’s soccer team as well as your son’s weight lifting, your spouse’s needlepoint and your own online fantasy teams.

While sports can be exciting and provide moments of diversion and enjoyment, they are meant to supplement life not be the aim and goal of life. Yes, a few individuals excel to the level that they can make a living at entertaining us with their ability; but most of us would do well to realize our limitations – and be willing to limit ourselves to demonstrate our control over life. Life ought not be the control over us.

Having said all of that, please pray for my wife as she begins leading a home school physical education group tomorrow. Sports are good; she knows how to keep them in balance with the rest of life.

Memorial Thoughts

Much will be made this weekend (and has already been made in the days leading up to Monday) of the fifth anniversary of the attacks in New York City, Washington and Pennsylvania. It is important that we remember those 343 members of the NYPD and associated services who bravely lost their lives while attempting to rescue others. It is vital that we not allow ourselves to forget the tremendous breach that was made in our national psyche and sense of security. We ought to give ourselves permission to grieve and remember.

However, we must not automatically relegate the destiny of each soul ushered into eternity on that fateful day to the confines of God's eternal presence and blessing. While their loss was tragic and still brings tears to my eyes, God did not change the standards of entrance into His eternal presence for one day, one minute, one moment.

The real tragedy would be for those of us who remain to pass off considering their eternal souls because we don't want to consider that we face the same fate: death at a time of God's choosing and not our own.

Are you ready?

I find it also remarkably fitting that on the weekend when the nation will focus attention on the "needless tragedy" resulting in the death of over 3,000 innocent civilians, our church family will be focusing our attention on the needed tragic death of one innocent civilian resulting in the possibility of eternal life for the rest of the planet's occupants. This we will do in His remembrance, until He comes!

For Frank . . .

Just in case the centuri0n was wondering, this is where I am right now!Polihale State Park, Kauai, Hawaii (above)
Napali Coast (below)

The Jesus Junk Phenomena

Read what Jason Janz has to say about the trend to make everything "Christian". (Here's the link) What he says is right on target - and should cause us to consider WHY we do WHAT we do in the name of evangelism. Remember what we discussed yesterday in Sunday School: faith comes by hearing - a silent testimony is never enough!

Vacation Recap

Back home! Two of the most comforting words ever uttered; no matter how wonderful the vacation is (and it was wonderful) it is GREAT to be home again.

Tuesday was "Boys' Golf Day" for some; and "Zoo Day" for others. Dad, two brothers, my son and I enjoyed the camaraderie of 18 holes at Summersett golf course in Traveler's Rest, SC. Although I brought my clubs from home, my game stayed on the West Coast (i.e. not every swing produced the results I desired).

Wednesday, we traveled north to Asheville, NC, and toured the Biltmore Estate. What an incredible house! The level of craftsmanship and opulence was indeed spectacular. It was an amazing reminder to me of the fact that all man can spend a lifetime amassing and achieving, God created in a span of 6 days with mere words! Prayer meeting with our friends on the hill (Summit View Baptist) was encouraging and uplifting as we approached the Throne of Grace together on behalf of one another.

Thursday was a much anticipated "Free Day" with nothing of significant travel planned. After all the running and sight-seeing, it was welcome. My family traveled over to BJU and shopped at the Christian Educator's Resource Market (bumping into some friends while there) and then visiting more friends on campus at the Dining Common. Thursday evening was spent with the extended family playing games, grilling dinner with my brother (chicken and grill-fried veggies), and visiting - oh and watching my sons play with toy trains my brother and sister-in-law found at a yard sale. Great memories were made!

Friday, all the fun began to wrap up as we packed our suitcases and began to prepare for our journey home. All too soon, we were back at the Charlotte airport, then in Dallas, and (finally) back in San Francisco. It made for a long day; but we made it home with 30 minutes to spare before the calendar turned to Saturday.

What I will remember most from this vacation are moments and conversations spent with my dearest friends: my family. We don't seem to get together that often; but when we do, we have a blast!

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Family vacation continues. Today we ventured to the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad in Dillsboro, NC. What an exciting time of riding the rails with the family! The views were amazing; trees and rivers setting just the right backdrop for the whistle of the engine and the throb of the rails being ground under the train's wheels. After a relaxing hour in Bryson City we rode the return trip and enjoyed a great car ride back to "the compound" in Greer. The rainstorms held off all day until our return car trip; and the thunderboomers have been different for our sons who come from that part of the country where thunderstorms are a rarity.

Tomorrow we have great plans laid - if the weather holds. If the weather doesn't cooperate we will adjust!

Before I leave, a word about church services yesterday. What a joy to fellowship once again with the folks at Summit View Baptist Church in Greenville, SC. The atmosphere was tremendously set for worship and God's Word went forth with great freedom. A tremendous college send-off was held for a young man departing from home; and it was encouraging to see this congregation declare truth into this person's life and encourage him as he takes the next step in his life's journey. And singing #198 was a joy, too!

Greetings from Greer, SC!

Our family is vacationing this week in South Carolina - the birthplace of our family (my wife and I lived here for the first 5 years of our marriage). We are gathering in honor of my parents' 40th wedding anniversary. Their anniversary 'present' was to have the whole family together for a time of celebration. We have converged on the home of my oldest younger brother to spend the next 7 days enjoying each others' company.

Already, we are rejoicing at what God has done for us. My family (wife and children) safely navigated the skies between San Francisco, Chicago and Charlotte - especially since 3/4 of the family battled the flu earlier in the week. The siblings and parents were protected as they drove from Pennsylvania through the night last evening and arrived early this morning. My brother and sister-in-law have done a wonderful job preparing their new home for its new role as "Family Compound" for the week.

The posts this week will probably be nostaligic. We are reliving the old family stories; my sister brought some old family movies that haven't been seen for years; the favorite meals are planned and on the menu for the week; and we are planning to establish some new traditions too (most of us now play golf!). But one thing will be as it always has been in our family: tomorrow we will be in church for all the services. This is not because we have to, not because we need to, not even because it is our job to be there; we will be in the Lord's house with the Lord's people because we WANT TO BE THERE. What a joy to worship the God Who planted us into a family!

Fantasy Ministry League?

As I type this, the Raiders are playing a pre-season football game against Minnesota. While I am watching with half an eye, the rest of my attention is being given to preparing for an event that has loomed large on my calendar since last February: Draft Day for my Fantasy Football League. For those of you not interested in football or especially in fantasy football, you may wish to question the sanity of a pastor who engages in a pastime that occurs mainly on Sundays during church services. To the contrary, the actual games played are merely the end process of a week's worth of pondering statistics, matchups, injuries, weather reports and game times. The main draw to my main fantasy league is the fact that the core of the group has been participating for 15 years now (we started back in college as a way for work colleagues to have an 'away from the job' connection.) An added bonus is that I will be able to attend a draft in the same room as these friends for the first time in 9 seasons!

Our league scores a little differently than most, so many of the official rankings put out by mainstream media sources need a little tweaking to be effective for my draft preparation. All this got me to thinking about a Fantasy Ministry League. Who would you pick to be on your team if you could pick from ministers across the spectrum?

Some folks would go for the glitzy players, the ones that would make highlight reels every week. No matter the situation, these players are going to have the headlines. Some franchises can be carried quite a ways on the strength of such players. Others will try to draft the hot rookies, hoping to cash in on the next "big thing" and be set for several seasons to come.

Still others will quietly build a corps of rock-solid contributors. These are the 'lunch box' players: those that rarely if ever gain headlines for their abilities or accomplishments; but those who make a dramatic impact over the course of the season. To me, these are the wise team owners. Faithfulness and consistency will build a team that performs better over the long run. Don't get me wrong, some of these players are also 'highlight players' and some are even among the 'hot rookies' but they are not drafted because of that - but because of their faithfulness.

So as I look over the spectrum of ministry and imagine building a church staff, I doubt that many would recognize the names that I would surround myself with. But these are men and women that make ministry not only possible but productive - and even enjoyable. The greatest news is this: we are already on the same team; and I am not the One in control!

Those of you still confused by fantasy football, and especially fantasy ministry, don't worry - I should return to 'normal' before too long.

Preparing to post

Nothing is more frustrating for me than to finally carve out some time to post and then have everything that I wanted to post about suddenly leave my mind. Oh, I know WHAT I wanted to post, but all the great points I was plannng to make have taken flight from my feeble cranium.

So without additional comment, here are the thoughts tickling my mind recently:

• "Faithfulness in following Jesus [is] progressively closing the gap between who we really are and who Jesus really is - not the fictional Jesus who is conveniently adjusted to our behavior, but one before whom every knee shall one day bow." - Glenn McDonald, The Deliberate Church.

• When Jesus chooses, calls, and converts a person, they are given great value, but not immunity from the attacks of the world.

• "Who ever had reason to hate Jesus? Whom has he injured? What evil has He ever said or thought?" - Albert Barnes on John 15.
  

• "The greatest danger a follower of Jesus ever faces is not death but apostasy." - D.A. Carson on John 16.
  

Summer Camp Summary

I really need to do a better job of keeping the blog updated! More news on that front later. For the last week (July 17 - 22) I have been blessed to have been at Pilot Lake Regular Baptist Camp as part of the annual Teen Camp activities. What follows is a summary of our week.

Monday: Denise and I left Hayward early and arrived at camp by 1 PM. We had a wonderful time travelling together to camp for the first time ever. In previous years we have either not gone together or have travelled in separate vehicles. God provided great travelling conditions and as we pulled into the camp 'driveway' (1.5 miles of bumpy dirt road) I felt the feeling in the pit of my stomach that I only feel when arriving at my parents' home in PA. I looked my wife square in the eye and said "Honey, now I know it's summer. We're at camp. We're home!" A great time of reunion was had as we settled into our accomodations (lodge for me, a cabin as girl's counselor for Denise) and visited with the arriving campers. Added blessing: our attendance this year was higher than expected (92) but God provided sleeping places for all. It was especially good to see the group from our former church ministry arrive. I had the privilege of speaking Monday night on the topic of "Our Response to the Light" from John 6. I tried to set the tone for the week by reminding the teens that when God's word is preached it is not to be passed on, or played with, but to be personalized. All went to bed anticipating an exciting week.

Tuesday: Tuesday was spent preparing for the annual cardboard boat race. This year's entries all had a common theme: they turned into submarines very quickly after leaving shore. But the campers were troopers, and earned points for their teams by swimming with their sodden boats trailing behind them! Tuesday night I spoke on "The Difference Jesus Makes" to the sinful and the searching from John 8. Music this year was expertly handled by Rick and Mick Vigneulle.

Wednesday: The week definitely got exciting early Wednesday morning! It seems that a curious bear decided to make the rounds of the woods surrounding the camp facility and couldn't help but notice that lots of food seemed to be stored in the cabins. As God would have it, the Camp Dean, Jon Cook, was in the right place at the right time to prevent any close encounters between the campers and nature! After rounding up almost 25# of snack food from the cabins, the night progressed without incident. The camp nurse is also getting a work-out! With so many campers, the bumps and bruises customary to camp seem to be in large number; but they are not out of the ordinary. A first-aid / CPR class was held on Tuesday; several of us have put our first-aid skills to good use already! I spoke this evening on "The Marks of Genuine Disciples" from John 8:31 - 59.

Thursday: What a day this turned out to be! I don't recall many of the events of the day because of the amazing service we had in the evening. After speaking on "When the Light Shines" from John 9, Pastor Roger McCarty from First Baptist Community Church shared a brief presentation on the brevity of life and the seriousness of eternity using photographs from the December 26 Indonesian tsunami. The response to the invitation was overwhelming to say the least, as teens seemed to seriously grasp the fact that long life was not guaranteed to them. Many decisions were made. Oh, the bear was sighted again on the property adjoining the camp; but we were nowhere near the area - we were doing business with God!

Friday: Last day of camp already? I had the extreme pleasurable opportunity to fill in for game director Ben Lunsford by leading the teens in a 4-way Steal the Bacon competition! Lots of fun for everyone! I spoke on "The Good Shepherd" from John 10 in the evening service and highlighted the fact that when camp is over the lessons are meant to remain. After having spent a week listening intently to the voice of the Good Shepherd, why go home and be distracted by all that was left behind? The campfire service was an excellent time of testimony and sharing of what God had done in lives.

Saturday: We packed up and headed home. It was good to pull into our own driveway (although it was very HOT here in the Bay Area) and be home. we already miss our new friends; but are praying that the work God did in lives will continue to bear fruit for His glory.

Thanks: I wanted to be sure to thank all the folks that made camp such a wonderful experience. Several were already mentioned, but to make sure no one is left out: David & Lorilynne Steenfott and Bill & Sharon Cleveland provided childcare for our boys while Denise and I were at camp. Thanks are due to them in great quantities; without them our ministry would not have been possible! Jon Cook did a great job leading the camp. Tom and Kate Veneman were their usual wonderful selves and made us feel welcome at their camp facility. The kitchen staff did an excellent job keeping us well fed and satisfied. The Counsellors (Josh, Nicole, Aaron, Denise, Tiger, Loetta, Ryan, Tim, Anita, Gloria, Ben) were great examples to the young people and tirelessly gave of themselves to provide an enjoyable camping experience. Ben Lunsford did a terrific job leading the games; a duty he did not expect but ably performed. The Speakers (Gary Barker, Craig Morrison, Roger McCarty, Mark Worrell, Denise Eldred and Ben Lunsford) used great skill to communicate God's word in a way that teens could grasp. The Safety Crew (Nurses Frank, Anita and Carmen, as well as Lifeguards Kyle and Andrea) kept us safe while having fun. Our Musicians (Rick and Mick, and Rick's son Brandon) provided top-notch music that drew our hearts into focus on God's Word. Last, but certainly not least, the campers (sorry, no list of all 92 names) gave us a reason to gather together.

I look forward to next year's camping season (July 16 - 21) already!


Oh, I promised news about keeping up to date a little better. Monday saw the addition of a new laptop to our family. This replaces the one my sons "experimented" with in February. We'll see how this helps me stay more connected to cyberspace!

Thoughts from John 14:15

"If you love Me, keep My commandments " says Jesus. We need to realize that our obedience to the commands, words and teachings of Jesus is not a means to garner God's love. Rather, it is the proof that we fully realize His love for us and our own love for Him. We love Him, therefore we keep His commands. His love is not some prize to be won by good behavior or abstinence from poor behavior. Our behavior is a response to the great love freely demonstrated to us by a loving merciful heavenly Father.

"Adelphos mou"

Yesterday, heaven became that much sweeter to me. A long time friend and fellow Pennsylvanian, Bob Kramp, passed away at the age of 77. The newpaper has many statistics about his life; but that is not the Bob I will remember.

The Bob of my eternal memory will always have on a bright red blazer, a very brilliant necktie and a smile that could light a small village for weeks on end. His hand will always be stretched out towards mine; but not for a traditional handshake. No, Bob always seemed to end up with one hand clasping yours and the other around your shoulder. "It's good to see you!" was always said in a way that communicated so much more than the trite phrase others have turned it into.

For years, Bob and I would greet each other uniquely: "Adelphos mou!" While I was studying Greek in seminary, Bob's first question was how to say 'my brother' in Greek. From then on it became our greeting to each other.

I spoke with Bob a few months ago, right before Easter. He called just to let me know he was praying for me and my ministry. I cannot tell you how honored I was to receive that phone call. He asked what books I had been reading; we discussed what our minds had been pondering, and then he asked if I had read a particular book that he had just finished. "No, Bob, I haven't read that one yet" was my reply. "That's OK. I'll send you a copy. It is a good one!" Sure enough the book arrived about a week later. I've thumbed through several pages, but haven't jumped in with the ferocity I should. Now representing my last contact with "adelphos mou", it has become one of my prized possessions.

In Greenville, SC today a wife misses her husband of 37 years and 3 children terribly miss their dad. I join them in grief because he was also my friend. I can't wait to meet him in glory and hear the streets of Heaven ring when we recognize each other and echo through the hallways of eternity "Adelphos mou! It's good to see you!"

Interesting quote

In researching for Sunday's sermon on John 13, I found this quote describing Judas. More to the point, it may describe any one of us from time to time:

"When men can sin knowing that God sees it all, it shows that the heart is fully set in them to do evil and that nothing will restrain them." - Albert Barnes

Judas was made aware of the fact that Jesus knew of his plans to betray Him, yet decided to continue with his plans. How often are we guilty of the same practice: knowing full well that God is not pleased with our plans, yet not allowing that fact to deter us from our 'freedom of choice' to act against the Almighty.

Light in the Darkness

It has been my extreme pleasure to take part in the Fundamental Baptist Fellowship International national conference this week. Meeting for the "first time in a long time" (if ever) on the West Coast, the weather and seismics cooperated wonderfully to give East Coasters a taste of ministry in the West, California, and San Francisco. It was my joy to re-connect to friends I hadn't seen in years, and especially to learn that several of them live a lot closer than I ever imagined.

By far, the blessing of the conference was the preaching. I am still digesting Chuck Phelps' exposition from Acts 7 on "Bringing Joy to the City" and it will impact my ministry for a long time to come. An additional 'pick-me-up' was to hear so many preacher's voices singing enthusiastically. The rafters of our host church were almost in danger of parting company with the rest of the building! Perhaps my favorite quote of the conference came after a soul-stirring singing of "How Great Thou Art" when the host pastor stepped to the microphone and exclaimed "The wonder of it all is that we serve One Who is deserving of exactly this kind of praise!"

But for the story of the incredible behind the scenes San Francisco experience, you will have to ask Tim Sneeden! His reward for being a faithful reader of this blog (and how hard can that be, considering how often I post? Really, folks, Tim is setting the bar here!) is that he gets to tell his story in his way and in his time. It's a great story - full of ups and downs, but not necessarily in that order.

A thought on John 11:25 - 26

"Faith in Jesus does not make humans immortal. What it does bring about is that from this moment on they no longer live under the power of death. Resurrection is therefore not a matter of the 'last day' but of now, of listening in faith to the Son of God." (The Gospel of John, Herman Ridderbos, page 397)

What a transforming event faith in Jesus Christ becomes! It truly does pass one from death into life! To quote the Master, "Believest thou this?"

The Shepherd's Voice

John 10 records Jesus' illustration of the shepherd, as well as His identification of himself as the Good Shepherd. Tucked away in those verses are phrases referring to 'his voice' that the sheep recognize. In fact, the voice of a stranger (anyone who is not the shepherd of a particular sheep) is said to cause panic and the dispersal of the sheep. The application seems clear: sheep always follow the shepherd to whom they belong.

What about the sheep who claims to belong to one shepherd who ends up following another shepherd? Something clearly has gone wrong. Either the sheep never belonged to the flock of which they claimed to be part, or they forgot what the voice of thier shepherd sounded like. This "other" voice may have had the same tenor or pitch or volume, but it was not the voice of the right shepherd.

I say all this in light of the recent release of the Gospel of Judas and the soon theatrical release of The DaVinci Code. Many who claim to follow Jesus will listen to the voices of 'scholarship' and 'reason' and conclude that perhaps the material presented by DaVinci Code, Holy Blood ~ Holy Grail and others have merit afterall. Some will even embrace the teachings fostered by the movie and book and adjust their thinking to reflect such insights. This is most dangerous!

The DaVinci Code and other materials of its ilk are nothing more than the voice of a strange shepherd! This is not the voice of the Good Shepherd; the teaching ought to cause every follower of Jesus Christ to respond in revulsion. This is not scholarship to be considered; it is heresy to be refuted!

I am not advocating that we stick our collective heads into the proverbial sand and ignore the issue. On the contrary, we need to be ready to defend our position for a historical and Biblical Jesus. The "facts" of Dan Brown's case do not hold up to any reasonable scrutiny. They are a modern retelling of an ages-old heretical position that seeks to distort one's view of Jesus Christ.

We as sheep following our Great Shepherd need to be intimately aware of His voice; and other voices (such as the ones we just discussed) ought to cause us to run for safety - not nibble for curiosity.

A Very Good Friday

The bulk of my time during the "6 hours" of this particular Good Friday were spent with two gifted individuals - Des and Linda. They were able to encourage me and give me great insight into what this day truly means in the life of a believer and follower of Jesus Christ. You see, Des and Linda are piano tuners.

My piano, no joke, has not been tuned in a l-o-n-g time. It has only been my piano for 3 years, and in that time no tuner was consulted. Previously owned by my in-laws, they confessed to me that it was probably the late 70s when my beloved instrument was last serviced. "Criminal!" I hear piano police muttering under their collective breath; and they are correct. What now sits in my living room is drastically different from the instrument I walked past last night on my way to bed. The case is the same, the strings the same, the keys are the same; and yet there is a profound difference that has been effected by an encounter with a maestro.

History tells us that two millenia ago this weekend Jesus died (as the Scripture said he would), was buried and rose again (as Scripture said). One of the practical results of that event is that lives are capable of being drastically changed. When my life encountered that Babe born in Bethlehem, that Teacher of the Twelve, that Christ of the Cross, that Maestro of majesty a profound difference was made - immediately. To borrow the musical metaphor, my flattened notes were tuned to perfect pitch by Him. My discordant strings were brought into unity with His standard of beauty and harmony. My case, with all its nicks and dents, was polished into a gleaming display of His craftsmanship. Only the most careless observer would miss the obvious transformation that has taken place.

At least that is how it is supposed to be. I was impressed by Des and Linda's obvious love and care for musical instruments. Their appreciation and total service of my instrument (they took it apart and cleaned and polished every surface - using tools as small as tiny brushes) made me think twice about using the piano as an end table. Their loving care made me value my possession after seeing how well they treated it.

Thinking back to the event this Good Friday commemorates, how ought I treat my salvation, after observing the loving care that provided it for me? O God, I've treated Your Son's sacrifice too lightly, I'm afraid. This life that was purchased and polished for Your glory has been turned into an end table, a place where odds and ends collect and dust easily accumulates. Today, as I remember the price paid for my sin, give me a greater appreciation for Your sacrifice; one that transfers into the daily living of my life in a way that pleases and brings glory to You alone. May the notes of my life's song be music - true music - in Your ears.

"Program complete . . . you may enter when ready."

The finishing touches have been put on the re-release of the church website. It is not in its finished state; but it is ready for public consumption. Check out the link in the sidebar, or if you don't feel like wandering that far with your mouse, just click this link right here.

The Family Circle is Complete!

One of the joys of raising a family is watching them reach important milestones. Our family reached a very significant milestone today.

When the phone rings and the voice on the other end is your eldest son (7 years old), your heart tends to flutter - especially when he says "Brother needs to talk to you!" Oh no, what went wrong?

Imagine my joy to hear my youngest son (5 years old next month) report "Guess what, Dad? I just asked Jesus to forgive my sins and make me part of His family. I am a Christian now!"

It seems that my oldest has been praying for his younger brother. Today he asked "When are you going to become a Christian?" Younger sibling replied "When I am ready." causing his older brother to ask "Well, are you ready?" After a few moments thought, the answer came, "Yes, I am ready today!" So two small boys knelt at the side of their bunkbeds and soon found their mother. "Good news, Mom! Our family is all Christians now!"

Just when one thinks life cannot possibly get any better, God shows just how wonderful HE can make life.

A Step back in Time

Tomorrow I have the extreme privelege of revisiting a former ministry. The pastor and people of Grace Baptist Church in Sonora, CA, have graciously invited me to preach as part of their "Shepherds' Conference." This yearly conference is a time when various pastors come and preach to the congregation. The emphasis this year is on pastors who have previously ministered at Grace.

I look forward to seeing the people and the ministry again. But the greatest aspect of the day will be opening God's Word again with these dear folks.

An update

Final touches are being put on the re-release of our church's website. Many thanks are due to the tireless efforts of Mr. Larry Vanerwegen, who is voluntarily taking on the "joy" of turning my design dreams and ideas into bits and pixels of Internet reality. Stay tuned for the Grand Re-Opening!

The Revolution will NOT be televised!

Please understand as you read that I am fully aware of the fact that I am a relative newcomer to the ministry scene. I am in my first year of the senior pastorate and have only served seven years prior to this in youth ministry. HOWEVER, my 24-year relationship with Jesus as my Lord and Savior gives me more than enough backing on the subject I approach today.

While in training (both undergraduate and seminary), I recall hearing again and again of the importance of knowing one's audience. This is good advice! Paul (Acts 17) first understood the background of his audience before addressing them on Mars Hill. In recent years, many companies and service providers have brought their unique talents to bear in ministry related areas. But what happens when the researchers do more than gather the data and report the trends? What happens when the pollsters begin making the decisions for you? Can the right data lead to the wrong conclusions?

The answer to the last question is a definite "yes" and is graphically illustrated in a recent book published by George Barna titled Revolution. In this treatise he shares insight into a growing crowd of 'revolutionaries' (his term) that will overtake the church scene in the next 20 years or so. These revolutionaries find spiritual fulfillment outside the walls of traditional church ministry; and have forsaken the local church to better identify with the Church (the global body of believers). Barna's conclusion is that within 20 years, Christians will only find 30% of their Christian activity taking place within church walls (down from it's current 70%). He uses this statistic and the personal experiences of others to advocate a serious shift in thinking - one that calls for believers to join the revolution and leave the local church.

Wait a minute! This is throwing out the baby with the bath water! Let's accept for a moment that what Barna is saying is true about current trends among Christians. If the next two decades will find believers spending less time within the church walls, this is not a reason to abandon the local church - it is a call to make the most of every opportunity those believers are in church! A shift in thinking needs to take place between the pastor's ears. He must strive to not only show the relevance of what he preaches and teaches, but show how that relevance must be acted out in daily life.

To be honest, much of Barna's book left me upset. One who had done seemingly so much to advance the cause of Christ is now advocating the abandonment of the church. To be sure, we cannot continue to minister to a 21st century culture with a 20th century model; but the solution is to change models, not abandon the product line completely. (A mixed metaphor to be sure, but I hope you understand the point.)

The revolution Barna predicts will happen. My prayer is that it will not happen as he sees it; but that we as a local church will realize that "church as it's always been" cannot continue.

Olympic-style living

This week has been spent trying to squeeze as much time viewing the Olympics as my schedule will allow (and sleep will permit). I am still not sure why I need to wait for 8 hours after the event to watch it on television; VCRs and TIVO were invented for a reason!

Last night, watching the men's free-style skating competition, I got into a discussion about the "new" scoring system being used at this Olympiad. The skaters are attempting increasingly difficult maneuvers - which is good; but they are not able to complete them - which is bad. However, they are being scored in a manner allowing them to receive credit for the portions of the element that were completed - which is good for the skater, but bad for the sport. By following this logic, all a skater need do is attempt 3 or 4 quad-jump combinations and hope that they can stick the landing one of them. The scoring will credit them for all that they actually accomplish and they should walk out with a medal. The folks in the stands and at home will watch them slide across the rink on their posterior; but hey, they tried right? What's next: giving out medals for how the athlete wishes they had skated? Absurd, you say? Quite right! We ought not award medals on an "outcome based" formula. If the skater cannot complete the element, then the element has not been done.

Apply that logic to life and living, and especially to the Christian life. Please follow my logic through to its conclusion before passing judgment on it. I am not saying we ought not attempt great things, nor am I saying we should only stick to what we know we can do. What I am saying is this: When we allow our lives to be lived in a way that states "Oh well, I guess I couldn't do all that. Give me credit for trying." it smacks others of falseness and hypocrisy. Let me reduce this to absurdity. If I promise to lead the singing on a Sunday Morning; but leave after the opening hymn - I don't get credit for leading one song, I get (rightly) accused of not leading the song service. Until it's finished, I have not done it. If I only give the introduction to my sermon - I haven't preached. (Again, don't misunderstand; some sermons take a LONG time to introduce and I have sat through some 45 minute introductions before. I am talking about just telling a story or two for 8 minutes and calling it a wrap)

The Christian life is more important than an ice skating competition. We need to "score" it much more differently, too. I am afraid, though, that too often we grade on the Olympic scale. Folks will fail and fall, best laid plans will not be completed as planned, injuries occur, the great plans may not materialize as planned when planned. However, is the public arena the place to try out "something new"?

Are we ready?

A friend has been challenging my thinking lately. He is part of a church that is re-organizing and trying to reach out in new and meaningful ways to his community. Amid all the questions of "How will we...?" and "What will we...?" he is challenging church members with the question "Are we ready to...?"

Are we ready to see things drastically different from what we have always known?
Are we ready to see a great influx of new faces, cultures, backgrounds?
Are we ready to accept folks as they are while we lovingly show them what God wants them to be?
Are we ready to reach out to those everyone else misunderstands and wishes "would just go away"?
Are we ready to accept the skateboarders as a ministry opportunity instead of a nuisance?
Are we ready to grow?

These are great questions. Ones that should be asked and must be answered. One cannot assume that everyone will come to the same conclusion on these matters. But, as a church seeks to reach out to its community, they are necessary questions to be asking.

So now I am asking them of myself! Some of the answers I already have; some I am still working on answering.

What other questions might be asked in this context? Are we ready to . . .

I'm one of THEM now!

Back in a former life (ok, really just a few months ago, when I was a pastor primarily to young people) there was a phrase that many in my professional circles liked to use: The Jones Memorial Carpet. This term was coined, I believe, by the late Mike Yaconelli; it represented the "sacred cows" and limits placed on youth ministry. Many youth workers could and can regale you with tales from their ministry where something wonderful happened; only to meet with the ire of the church family because, in the process, The Jones Memorial Carpet was soiled.

I often laughed at the concept of the JMC, largely because I was blessed to be involved in churches where ministry took precedence over the condition of the room or the resulting aftermath. Don't get me wrong. I wasn't leading marauding bands wielding grape juice-filled Super Soakers through the sanctuary. I was, however, allowed the opportunity to make messes and repair the aftermath without incurring the wrath of "the Jones family" who had donated whatever it was that got used in a less-than-what-they-had-intended fashion.

All that changed two months ago.

Now I'm "one of the Joneses."

When a family member passed away recently, much was made by members of their immediate family about how the estate would / should be divided. During the course of the last few weeks these same members are discovering just how generous Loved One was to their church. This person was very giving of their finances and time to the cause of Christ's church - too much so, if you ask certain people. After finding out that a substantial portion of the estate would be given to the church, there was much grumbling about how the church should have to earn it, show appreciation for it, erect something to honor the gift, etc. Interestingly enough, the last project this family member contributed towards was, you guessed it, new carpeting for the main auditorium. There were family members who attended the memorial service for Loved One "just to see what kind of carpet [donation amount] gets you these days."

I am trying hard to maintain a sense of balance with family on the one hand, and knowing what I know about ministry on the other. A large part of me wants to say "But look at what can be done in this room, now that it is carpeted! Look at how effective ministry can be - and [the dearly departed] made that happen!" But it would be pointless, because that carpet - in their eyes - has dollar signs for its pattern. They don't understand the reasons their loved one gave; they don't know the One their loved one was demonstrating love towards; they just see a carpet as a "lasting" tribute, and they know that it will be a fleeting memorial at best.

Where am I going with all this? I think the response I should have had back in my youth ministry days was one of thankfulness to the Jones family for letting me in the room with their "carpet" (even though it may not have been actual carpet - you know what I mean, right?). Maybe I should have written them a note, explaining to them how glad we were to not only enjoy the carpet, but explain that the wear and tear - and even stains - were also a fitting tribute to their loved one.

Now that I'm "one of the Joneses" through no fault of my own; that's how I want to proceed in the future.

Contact lenses and salvation?

Yesterday, February 1st, was a monumental day. The beginning of the month marks the time when I change my contacts! I began this habit so that I will remember when it is time (was it the 14th of the month, or the 23rd? No. It is the 1st!).

Each month I marvel at how easily the contacts go onto my eye; and the clarity they provide for my sight. No matter how much I scrub and clean my old lenses, they have to be replaced each month; and each month, I can tell the difference between a new pair and the old. Psalm 51:10 - 12 was ringing in my thoughts yesterday after I put my "new" lenses into use.

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me by Your generous Spirit.

How often do I allow myself to relive the joy of when salvation was brand new? The fact "all things have been made new" does not always bring corresponding feelings of the "joy of Your salvation." This may be due to many factors; but could it be simply the fact that we just don't remind ourselves?

Putting a new set of lenses on my eyes reminds me of just how good the new pair is. God, today, keep me mindful and aware of just how good my salvation is compared to the life I lived before!

New Year Resolutions

There is something cleansing about the month of January. Opening a new calendar, staring at all the blank boxes filled with promise and unseen opportunities, feeling the exhilarating rush of anticipation at all that can be accomplished in a NEW year, one is often tempted to set goals, list expectations and begin the process of completing those tasks.

Then comes the month of February. Many of January's promises and commitments have been tossed aside, written off as the overworked imagination of fancy. The one or two items still on the list are often given half-hearted attempts at completion - more to keep from admitting total failure than to actually accomplish the goal. Maybe February is too late; perhaps the items on the list were abandoned in mid-January.

Is all lost?

No.

But it all needs to be restarted. That's right, totally stopped, rethought, reworked and then restarted. So take your list of "resolutions" and put them down
and
just
walk
away.

The fact of the matter is that you will never keep them anyway. Your own strength is far to feeble to accomplish anything of value. This is a job for not super-human strength, but for superior to super-human strength. The goals you would like to set for your life need to be filtered through the sieve of God's thinking.

Try it! Does God want you to [here's where you fill in the blank with what you want to accomplish this year]? How will that make you more like Jesus Christ? How will that influence others to desire a relationship with Him? Face it; God probably does not want you to quit your job to go to all 162 baseball games of your favorite team. He may not even desire for you to go to the gym 6 days a week. Get His perspective on your resolutions - then revise them accordingly!

Now you are ready to restart! "But," I can hear you say "this list looks so hard!" It may very well be the most difficult task you have ever faced! That is exactly why you were never meant to accomplish it on your own. Ask God for His divine help, strength, guidance and direction. Enlist others to hold you accountable, pray for you, rejoice at your progress and weep at your setbacks. Don't expect everything to happen overnight. The only things that happen overnight are FedEx deliveries; and, unless you work for FedEx, God doesn't expect you to deliver FedEx results!

This is a new year. There are still 354 days left to accomplish great things. Ask God to determine what great things He would like for you to accomplish this year; and then ask His help as you move toward accomplishing them.