Live The Red

BareFoot Sunday!

2009-06-06T17:48:00.000-05:00

Bare Foot, originally uploaded by .Travis.

Don’t be surprised if your pastor’s not wearing any shoes in church tomorrow. Think of it as a whole new dimension of our comfortable dress code. You may be thinking, “Pastor Mark has lost his mind as well as his shoes!” I assure you, I’ve lost neither.

As is often the case, there is indeed method to my madness. I’m coming barefooted to church tomorrow for a very important reason. 300+ million children around the world are too poor to afford even one single pair of shoes. For us in the comfortable confines of suburbia in North America, I doubt that any of us even knows just how many pairs we actually own. I stopped counting after about a dozen pair.

The first Sunday in June is a special day. Tomorrow, Sunday June 7th, 2009 is “Barefoot Sunday.” A not-for-profit organization called “Soles4Souls” is sponsoring this unprecedented effort to collect and distribute shoes to the poor and needy both in North America and around the world.

The mission of Soles4Souls is simple: To impact as many lives as possible with the gift of shoes. They began their “sole-searching” effort after the Asian Tsunami and Hurricane Katrina a few years ago. For the people who had lost everything in these natural disasters, a new pair of shoes was truly a God-send. What began as a response to a natural disaster has now developed into a full-fledged, global mission effort.

Here’s the deal. I’m not wearing shoes in church tomorrow for a reason. Now is the time for Christ followers to once again show the world what unselfishness and generosity looks like! The shoes I would have worn will be donated to this great cause.

What can you do? For starters, come to church tomorrow in sandals, flops, or even barefoot. And starting tomorrow, bring a “gently used” pair of shoes that you can donate to the good folks at Soles4Souls so that they can in turn give them to a person in need. We’ll be collecting shoes for the next couple of weeks.

NOT wearing shoes is suddenly an important fashion statement. Going barefoot is a reminder of how blessed we are as Americans. And it’s a powerful reminder of this global need.

You’ve seen the signs before, “No shoes, No service.” We’ll change that slightly at the Bridge tomorrow. Instead, the sign will read…

“No shoes, KNOW service.”

Live the Red…barefooted,

Mark

40 Days...

2009-04-26T22:30:00.000-05:00

Resurrection, originally uploaded by Pankcho.

Today begins a journey of 40 Days. We're calling it, 40 Days of Love. It is a journey quite unlike any other. It is a journey uniquely designed for the faith family called Ironbridge. There are other famous churches undertaking a "40 Days of Love" campaign. I for one, am happy for them. I wish them well. The 40-Day journey that we are starting, is a unique, one-of-a-kind experience. It is all about what God is saying to us. Whether you're a part of the Bridge family or even if you're on the other side of the world, you're welcome to join us if you like. The more the merrier.

As we begin this journey, we're asking God to show up. The reality is, if God doesn't show up, anything we attempt to do without Him is destined to be a miserable failure. We don't want a campaign, a program, a project, or even an event. We want HIM. We want God to show Himself in all His splendor and majesty.

Long ago and far away, a man named Moses found himself in the midst of one of the most thrilling adventures in all of human history. God was rescuing his chosen people from Egyptian slavery. As the story unfolds, Moses asks God to do something extraordinary. Moses asks God, "Please show me Your glory." (Exodus 33:18)

God answered his prayer. God revealed Himself to Moses. As God passed by, He proclaimed His name, "The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children's children to the third and fourth generation." (Exodus 34:6,7)

Over the next 40 days between now and Thursday, June 4th, 2009, we're asking God to reveal Himself. We're asking God to show up! The amazing thing is--He already has. He's already here ahead of us, waiting for us to get to the place where we are now. God is here!

In the days that follow. God will be revealing Himself to us over and over again--through the pages of His Word and through the events that unfold in our lives.

I believe that 40 Days from now--your life, your walk with Christ, (your marriage if that applies to you), & your church family will be radically different than they are today.

It's simply impossible to encounter the one true living God of the Bible and not be forever changed. Expect it, believe it, and celebrate it when it happens because it will happen!

Welcome to this journey. I'm glad you'll be traveling this road with us.

Live the Red,

Mark

Twitter! (Part 2)

2009-02-16T15:11:00.003-05:00

twitter icon (for Fluid), originally uploaded by seyDoggy.

I really do love twitter!

I've already shared on an earlier post about the journey that led me to this fascinating and helpful piece of social media called twitter.

Why do I love twitter? Well, I'm convinced that twitter can be a help to spiritual groups of all sizes. Twitter can be utilized by Sunday School classes, Bible studies, small groups, ministry teams, & mission teams. Twitter is a useful tool for making disciples in the digital world of the Internet.

How times have changed in this new century. Think back to how we did church in the last century. 20th century church in America was basically a location-based, building-based, Sunday morning only-based social network that was typically a mile-wide and an inch-deep. Organized church too often was a gathering of what I call “well-acquainted strangers.” Typically you’d see people for a few minutes in-between worship services or in Sunday School or just passing in the hallway. If you or your friends missed a Sunday or two, you might not reconnect with these folks for several weeks or even a month or more. Personal connection was sporadic at best.

Let’s face the reality of our culture. Everyone's busy, most of us are over-committed, over booked, and always on the go...on the move headed somewhere...everywhere. Phone calls and emails take too much time. So how can a real, Biblical sense of community develop with so many cultural cards stacked against us? How can we connect more personally and more consistently throughout the week? How do we share our lives in the real world between Sundays? Part of the answer is this thing called twitter.

Twitter offers some usable spiritual possibilities. Remember the scene in the Wizard of Oz when Dorothy and her friends returned with the Witch's broom? Dorothy's little dog Toto goes over and starts to pull on the curtain that keeps the Wizard hidden. When the Wizard realizes that he's about to be "found out" he shouts through his loudspeakers...."Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain...I am the great and powerful Oz!" The jig is up! The mask is off! The con is exposed!

As a pastor, twitter allows me to pull back the curtain on my life. It gives me an opportunity to let people see what's going on in my life as a follower of Jesus. No pretense. No false promises. No sham. Just the real deal. From the mundane to the meaningful, I broadcast my life via twitter. I hope people are listening, or watching, or reading or following along. The apostle Paul said, "be imitators of me!" (I Cor. 4:16; Phil. 3:17) Egotistical? Not really. What he's saying is that the way to become a more passionate follower of Jesus is to follow in the footsteps of someone who is a passionate follower of Jesus. Because I know that people are following me on twitter challenges me to be a more devoted Christ follower. My heart’s desire is that other people will become more devoted followers of Christ as well.

Twitter gives us a chance to "hang out" together even when our busyness is pushing us in a dozen different directions. We’ve got a member of our church that has regular two-week tours of duty with his company in the northern most region of Alaska. Far removed from the “lower-48,” this spiritual brother can “stay in the loop” of what’s happening in the lives of his church family. Remarkable! Even though he’s thousands of miles away for two weeks at a time, he can, and does stay connected to his fellow believers.

If there’s an urgent prayer request, I know about it sooner rather than later thanks to twitter. If there is a problem, negative buzz, or an issue that needs my attention...twitter gives me the opportunity to respond quickly either publicly on my tweet-stream or privately via a Direct Message. And all of this happens in 140 characters or less. Twitter forces you to be succinct. It forces you to make the most of every word you write.

This piece of social media is marvelous for staying in touch with missionaries serving around the world. Twitter allows those on the field to keep the stateside crowd informed and updated on their ministry. As a result, we can pray more directly for needs & issues as they arise. And all of it happens, 140 characters at a time. Brilliant!

Twitter is not perfect, not by a long shot. Used incorrectly, it can become an addictive, voyeuristic, narcissistic, time-waster. People who are rude in person will probably be rude on twitter. Bullies will be bullies, wherever they are. Pharisees will be Pharisees no matter where they are. Words can help or hurt...in person and on twitter. If you don’t like what someone is writing, you can block them. Problem solved. If only it were that easy in real life.

Please understand--TWITTER IS NOT & NEVER WILL BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR REAL-LIFE, IN PERSON relationships and community. Twitter is simply intended to enhance and encourage the real-life connection, the real-life fellowship that we can and should enjoy in Christ!

If you want to hang out with me in person, you may have to wait until the weekend when we gather @ the Bridge. If you want to hang out with me RIGHT NOW, you can…at a place called twitter. Here’s where you can find me: www.twitter.com/markjordan

In the meantime, what are you doing to connect with other Christ followers between Sundays? If it works, let me know. I'll pass it along...on twitter, of course!

Live the Red,

Mark

Sparrows, Bluebirds and such...

2009-02-13T09:53:00.005-05:00

Going out on a limb, originally uploaded by Daylily18 ( trying to keep up ).

I awakened this morning to hear the grievous news that a plane had crashed during the night. Continental Connector flight #3407 crashed about 5 miles outside of Buffalo, NY. Tragically, all 48 people aboard perished in the crash, with one or two more fatalities on the ground. My heart breaks for the families that are now grieving the loss of loved ones, friends, co-workers and neighbors. Remember to pray for those who are walking through the valley of the shadow of death on this day. May they experience the comfort that only God can give in times like this.

The words that I feel compelled to write today are not about death and dying. They are about life. I have been reminded of some things this morning that I want to pass along to you. My phone rang this morning. On the other end of the line was a tearful young wife and mother of four small children. Through her sobs mingled with joy, she told me her story.

Her husband, and a member of my congregation for many years, was at the ticket counter last night with ticket in hand to board Continental Flight #3407. But something happened at the last minute. Another co-worker came up to this young man and asked him to carry a piece of equipment back to their workplace outside of Buffalo. Only one problem. This particular piece of equipment was too big to be a carry-on. It would need to be checked baggage. The flight was preparing to leave so there wasn't time to check this piece of equipment. They would have to take a later flight. And the rest is history. This young man and a co-worker did not get on the plane. At the last minute, for an obscure reason...they never boarded this ill-fated flight that would later crash outside of Buffalo.

Here's what God says, "The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps." (Proverbs 16:9) Even though I am terribly sad for the families that lost loved ones, my heart is encouraged by the good news of this particular verse. God does indeed direct our steps. The smallest details of our life does not escape His notice. He has a plan for each and every one of us. The little things that we would call "coincidences" really never are. Some might call it "luck." As followers of Jesus, we know better. It's true, our days on this planet ARE numbered. But we have the privilege of knowing and loving and conversing and trusting the one who has His hands on the calculator.

All of this has made me think about sparrows and bluebirds today. Little birds hardly worth a second glance. God talks about little birds to teach us big truths. "Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows." (Matthew 10:29-31)

My heart is leaping! I rejoice with a young wife who still has a husband. I rejoice with four small children who still have a daddy. In this life, there are many who are looking for the "bluebird of happiness." But true happiness, real joy does not come into our lives on the wings of a blue-colored bird. Our happiness comes from another source. Our hearts rejoice because even in the midst of life's hardest questions, most troubling heartaches and deepest mysteries--we know that there is a all-powerful, all-knowing, merciful, compassionate God who cares about us more than we can comprehend.

God orchestrates even the smallest most insignificant parts of our lives for our good and His glory! How do I know these things?

A little birdie told me.

Live the Red,

Mark

She didn't play...

2009-02-02T22:15:00.002-05:00

She's not playing, originally uploaded by makeupanid.

I've been thinking about Cardinals today for some reason...the "day after" and all. The young lady in today's pic didn't play. Some Cardinals did....

...because there was a game in our neck of the woods on Sunday. Maybe a billion or so worldwide were watching. I think we like games because they are a microcosm of life. Everything is condensed into a very brief time frame. Reality on steroids, so to speak.

One sportswriter described the game as "Dynasty vs. Doormats." The team called the Cardinals weren't supposed to be there. Football royalty they certainly are not. They'd be lucky if they weren't blown off the field. For their sake, just hope it's not a rout.

A funny thing happened along the way. The Cardinals played like they thought they could win it. They almost did. They came very, very close.

But with only seconds left...the other team won...dramatically, wonderfully, joyfully! And the doormats were denied.

The games we play are funny. One minute, we're on top of the world, and the next, we're just sitting and staring into space wondering what happened.

It's no fun to lose. It is in no way enjoyable. It's much more fun to kiss the Lombardi trophy and think you're special. If we got to choose between victory and defeat, we'd choose winning every time.

Want to know something that I've learned in 52 years of living? God doesn't usually follow us into the locker room of our successes. But when we lose...when our world is falling apart...He is sitting there with us. He knows. He cares. And He's with us. Sometimes He doesn't say an audible word. And from losing...we learn. Far more than we ever will from winning.

ABC sports used to tell us about "the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat." It's only human nature to want to skip the agony part.

When your own personal "day after" comes, and it will, know that you are not the only one left, sitting on the bench, staring out into space wondering what when wrong. When that day comes, look to your side and see that you are not alone. He is with you.

As for me, I hope you win all your games. (I want you to like me.) As for God...He cares enough about you to let you learn the lessons that only losing can teach. He'll allow you to lose. Because He loves you He will allow loss to enter your life. And you will grow, and learn, and move forward to the next game, or the next season, or whatever may come next...maybe even a few exciting victories.

Just so you know, these thoughts have really nothing to do with football or sports. She knows. She didn't play.

Live the Red,

Mark

Twitter! (Part 1)

2009-01-30T09:23:00.003-05:00

twitter-logo, originally uploaded by mafik66.

Let me just say it...I love twitter!

How did I find my way to twitter? I'm glad you asked. Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale, a tale of a faithful trip, that started from this tropic port, aboard this tiny ship...oh, that's another story. Sorry skipper. Gilligan!!!!!

My journey to twitter began about five months ago. I was searching for a literary agent. In today's publishing environment, if you want to get your stuff in print, you really need to have an agent. (Chalk this up as free advice to all the would-be authors out there in the blogosphere...you're welcome!)

Anyway, are you asleep yet? Thanks to my friends at Google, I stumbled upon the CEO of a publishing firm known as Thomas Nelson. This tech-savvy CEO named Michael Hyatt had written a blog post about the importance of literary agents. I found his blog to be both insightful and interesting. I noticed that he was not only blogging but also doing something called "twittering." Whaaa? His blog even suggested that I follow him in a place called Twitter. OK.....sure, whatever. And I followed his twitter posts (called "tweets") for a few weeks. How can I describe the experience? Well, it's like I'm hanging out with this big-shot in the publishing world that I've never met. I'm tagging along as he takes his wife to dinner, telling me about his five wonderful daughters, or letting me sit in on his latest meeting at the corporate office. Weird, and yet, strangely fascinating.

My first response to the twitterverse? "Are you kidding me?" I thought. "Who's got time to invest in twittering all day?" I was a skeptic.

And then I did something totally insane...I jumped in the pool. Yep, I began to "tweet." A dozen times a day I would post a 140-character message about what was going on in my life on that particular day. Here's the funny thing. In the beginning, I was posting stuff on twitter and I didn't have any followers. None. As far as I knew, nobody...I mean NOBODY was reading my stuff. It was just a "field test"--an experiment.

I'm now getting ready to start my sixth month on twitter. The experiment continues.

In my next post, part 2 on this subject, I'll tell you why I'm hooked on this bit of social media known as twitter.

In the meantime, you can follow me on twitter here.

Live the Red,

Mark

The Forest for the Trees

2009-01-28T13:28:00.002-05:00

, originally uploaded by m u n i c h.

Details, details...everywhere details.

I have come to believe that each and every day of our lives we are confronted with lots and lots of stuff, you know, the little things of our life called details. Details come in many shapes and sizes....bills that need to be paid, phone calls that need to be returned, errands to be run, emails that need to be read, groceries that need to be purchased, food that needed to be cooked....etc, etc, etc.

Think of the details of your life as trees. Individuals trees. There you are, surrounded by trees as far as the eye can see. Maybe you feel as if you're drowning in a sea of details. Or, to play out this little devotional thought, you're standing in the middle of a huge forest of trees. And all you can see are the trees. Maybe you're even beginning to feel just a little bit claustrophobic.

There is a saying..."I can't see the forest for the trees." In other words, all of the trees that are in front of you are hindering your view of the entire forest! Definition: "overly concerned with detail; not understanding the whole situation." Explanation: "Used when expressing that a person is focusing too much on specific problems and is missing the point."

Even for devoted followers of Jesus, it is very possible to miss the point. Completely. Spiritually speaking, "to not see the forest for the trees." Read your Bible, pray, go to church, write out your tithe check, resist temptation, listen to Christian music, etc, etc, etc. In the midst of serving Christ, we can miss Christ. Busy with doing Kingdom work, we can miss the grandeur and greatness of the Kingdom.

Can I make a polite suggestion? Take a moment, in the midst of your details, and take a few steps back. Take a good look around. 360 degrees. Let your spiritual peripheral vision kick in. Or better yet, get to the high ground. Make your way out of the details of your busy life long enough to get a good look at what is going on.

In Habakkuk, chapter three, the biblical writer is looking for the Kingdom in the midst of some really horrible economic conditions. He makes a wonderful statement about what God is doing in his life, "...The Lord God is my strength, and He has made my feet like hinds' feet, and makes me walk on my high places." (Habakkuk 3:19)

Did you notice that last phrase..."and makes me walk on my high places." Yes! Make your way to a "high place" so you can see the entire forest...the big picture...the magnificent panorama of God's Advancing Kingdom.

The view is breathtaking! It's absolutely glorious. And for just a few moments, it gets you a safe distance away from the drudgery of the details.

As for me, I'll take this moment to take a good look at the entire forest! It's gorgeous.

Now back to the details....

Live the Red,

Mark

The Steve Jobs Syndrome

2009-01-23T13:58:00.002-05:00

Steve Jobs, originally uploaded by jules.nziet.

In case you haven't heard, Steve Jobs is sick...seriously sick.

He's so sick that he's decided to take some time off. He's taking an extended leave of absence. And bunches of people are freakin' out.

Now if you've been living under a rock for the past twenty years, you may not know that Steve Jobs is the revered (some say worshipped) and respected CEO of Apple Inc. You know, they're the guys and gals that have given us the Mac, the iPod, iTunes, and most recently, the iPhone.

Back in 1997, Apple Inc. was in serious trouble. They were losing money, their stock was at an all-time low, and they couldn't seem to improve on the Mac operating system.

In walks Steve Jobs and the rest, as they say, is history. Today, Apple is the envy of Silicon Valley. Even mighty Microsoft and Sony are laying people off. Not Apple Inc. They made $10 Billion last year.

And that's why people are scared. They're afraid that Steve is gone. And they're afraid that without Mr. Jobs at the helm, Apple will suffer, or worse...begin a steady decline. People trust Steve. People put their trust in him to lead the company to greater heights.

I'm afraid that Christianity in North America suffers from what I call the Steve Jobs Syndrome. What do I mean by that? Thanks for asking. Look at it this way. We're addicted to Big Shots. We're always looking for the Hall-of-Famer who can lead us to victory. We are addicted to the guy or gal who has Charisma/Brains/Talent/Follow-Through to spare! Organized Christianity rises or falls based on the talent pool of the limelight few.

Apple Inc. is trying its best to fight off the Steve Jobs Syndrome. They're trying really hard. Here's what they're saying: "There is a breadth and depth and tenure among the Apple executive team and these executives lead over 35,000 employees that I would call all wicked smart, " said Tim Cook, Apple's COO. He went on to say, "And I think that regardless of who is in what job, those values are so embedded in this company that Apple will do extremely well." Translation: Apple is bigger and better than just one man. Fair enough. For Apple's sake, I hope its true. Is it?

Can I get personal with you for a moment? Is Christianity in America bigger and better than Billy Graham, Rick Warren, or Beth Moore? Are we relying too heavily on a few Biblical Big Shots to carry the day? Are we looking for a spiritual-version of Steve Jobs to make the difference? I'm just asking.

Are there going to be some exceptionally gifted people serving Christ? Of course. But they are exceptional exactly BECAUSE they're the exception to the general rule. God's work, indeed God's Kingdom advances and triumphs through the lives of remarkably unnoticeable people. Men and women--average in every way--are the workhorses of spreading the Gospel and advancing God's Kingdom. God wants it that way. He's said so Himself.

I wish the best for Steve Jobs. I want him to get well. But I don't just want him to get well physically. Join me in praying for his spiritual health as well. That can only happen through a personal faith relationship with Jesus Christ. It's extremely difficult for a wicked smart person like Steve-O to see his need for Christ.

But then again...what is impossible with man...well, you know.

Our own mortality has a marvelous way of getting our attention, even if we're wicked rich or wicked smart.

Isn't it cool that our God usually chooses to do His work through people like us? Very cool indeed.

We can change the world...and you don't have to be wicked smart to know that it all starts when we...

Live the Red,

Mark

25,000

2009-01-22T08:43:00.002-05:00

25,000, originally uploaded by Captain Redstorm.

Sometime in the next few hours, LiveTheRed.com will celebrate a milestone in the storied history of this blog site. Today or tomorrow, LiveTheRed (LTR) will reach the 25,000-visit mark. WooHoo!

Back in February of 2007 when LTR began, I had no idea that blogging could and would become such a helpful tool in encouraging others in their walk with Jesus Christ.

Back in the 20th century, people like me would write a couple of hundred words once a week, print it in a newsletter under the title "The Pastor's Pen" or "From the Pastor's Desk" or some such, and then it would be mailed out to three or four hundred people who would find it in their mailbox a week to ten days later. How many people actually read it? Who knows. Probably not many.

My, my how things have changed in the opening years of the 21st century. Now I can share a few words, a picture, a video (still haven't figured out how to do that yet) and make it available globally. You can read it whenever and wherever you like. People from all around the world can see what I've posted if they like. As you can see by the world map and the bottom of this page, people from very far away places ARE indeed reading this stuff.

Up to this point, I've posted 333 times. That means that an average blog post receives about 75 visits each!! And all 333 posts are still available for your review and consideration. And it's all free! No fees, no postage, no running to the mailbox. It's a remarkable technology.

To be honest, another Web 2.0 application called Twitter has taken my attention away from blogging over the past few months. Twitter is even a shorter, more convenient way for me to stay in touch with you--not just on a daily basis, but on an hour-by-hour basis as well. During Inauguration Day on Tuesday, I posted 57 micro-blog messages throughout this historic day. I was one of the first to let you know that Chief Justice Roberts and Barack Obama flubbed the oath of office.

If you're interested in knowing more about Twitter, you can follow me here: www.twitter.com/markjordan Feel free to join in on the twitter fun.

For now, I'm very grateful. Grateful for the technology that God has put in our hands to use for His Glory and our Good. I believe that God has allowed us to discover and invent these technologies for one clear purpose--to advance His Kingdom and spread the Gospel globally in this global harvest generation! You can quote me on this.

For now, LTR will continue onward. I believe it's important now more than ever that we stay in touch. There has never been a better time in world history to live out a "red-letter life."

To everyone who has ever taken the time to stop by, I'd like to say THANK YOU. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR READING THIS STUFF. You have been a blessing to me more than you will ever know. I hope I can be a blessing to you in return.

God bless.

And now, it's time to gear up for the next 25,000 hits.

Let's roll....

And together, let's continue to...

Live The Red,

Mark

A New Day

2009-01-20T23:11:00.003-05:00

Obama pulling away in the polls, originally uploaded by bobster1985.

What an historic day in American history! It is a new day. Barack Obama has been sworn in as the 44th President of the United States. We now have an African-American man serving in the highest office in the land...dare we say...the entire world!

I'm grateful for the opportunity to have witnessed it firsthand. I'm glad that my children were eyewitnesses to the events of this incredible day.

I've spent the better part of the last fourteen hours following closely the events of this special day.

It has been a day that has increased my appreciation for America. We are indeed blessed to live in a country where there is such a peaceful transfer of power. Today we were not Republicans or Democrats or Libertarians. Today, we were all Americans...proud Americans. What a country!

The day began for our new president in church. I'm grateful that incoming presidents spend time talking with God before assuming the duties of this incredible office known as the American presidency.

George and Laura Bush are very gracious people. I'm unashamed to say that I stand proudly with the remaining 22% of Americans who approve of President Bush's job while in office. History will be much kinder than the public. I'm very grateful that President Bush has kept America safe for the past seven years. He's had to make some tough decisions but love him or hate him, we've all been safe because of his leadership. He is a gentlemen. He was more than gracious in his exit from the public spotlight. He warmly embraced President Obama after his inaugural speech and again before boarding Marine One to return to Texas.

I'd like to say, "President Bush, on behalf of a nation that should be grateful but isn't, let me say...God bless you sir."

Rick Warren's Invocation exceeded my expectations. I'm glad that he concluded his prayer with the name of Yeshua...Jesus! Great job, Rick! You made us evangelicals proud.

I was shocked that Chief Justice Roberts tried to wing it with the oath of Office. Are you kidding me? This is why you have rehearsals. Oh my gosh. Embarrassing to say the least.

I am so happy for the African Americans in our nation. For so long they have suffered through slavery, persecution, segregation, and every manner of injustice and cruelty. So many have suffered and died just to gain the basic civil rights that every American should enjoy. Today, they tasted the American dream in a big way. I'm glad this day has come for them and for all of us. For so many, today has been the first day when they no longer have to feel like second-class citizens of this great nation. For those treated like an under-class for so very long, starting today, they too can be proud of their country.

I'm not ashamed to say that I DID NOT vote for Barack Obama for president. I probably won't vote for him again in four years when he runs for reelection. However, I do believe he'll be in office for at least 8 years unless we amend the Constitution again so that he can serve even longer. Just watch.

It doesn't matter. He is president, and He is my president. I will support him and when conscience will allow--I'll cheer for him. I will pray for him. I will encourage others to do the same. All Americans should. There is a biblical mandate to do so. (See I Timothy 2:1-4)

The political left is very happy tonight. The liberal and mainstream press is ecstatic. Just saying the words, "former President Bush" puts a smile on their faces. Hollywood is overjoyed. African Americans are dancing in the streets. And in many places around the world, people are celebrating. One can only hope that all this global euphoria will mean better days ahead for America. But don't hold your breath.

We still live in a very dangerous and evil world. Don't believe me? Then take a good look at the Cadillac Limousine that President Obama will be riding in. They call it "the beast." It's basically a bank vault on wheels. Why were there more troops on the ground in our nation's capital today than in Iraq? (only slight exaggeration) You guessed it. The world is still a very evil, dangerous place. There are a bunch of folks who hate us and would love to do us great harm. President Bush (#43) understood this. I hope President Obama does.

There is no doubt. President Obama is very intelligent. Some would say he's brilliant. He is polished. He has, as professor Michael Eric Dyson has said, "mad skills" when it comes to public speaking. He has style. He can dance...only not so much the ballroom variety. I saw him in action tonight. He won't be on dancing with the stars any time soon...trust me on this one. But as Garrison Keillor of Prairie Home Companion fame reminds us, "He'll be the first president in history to look really good making a jump shot." Obama seems to have cornered the market on "cool." The adulation that I witnessed today makes me think that we're in for years of an administration that many will believe is "Camelot on Steroids."

Indeed, there are many happy people in the world tonight. They are happy that Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States. The Good Book says that we should, "...rejoice with those who rejoice..." So very late on this inaugural evening, on this historic January 20th, 2009, I am happy too. I am joining the ranks of the rejoicing.

We have much to happy about tonight. And much of it has nothing to do with presidents or politics.

I'm rejoicing tonight that God has given me another day to...

Live the Red,

Mark

Santa's Using Zebras Now

2008-12-23T11:35:00.000-05:00

The Sweet Smell of Rejection, originally uploaded by S.britt.

Well, it's two days before Christmas here in North America. All month long @ The Bridge (www.ironbridge.com, that is) we've been thinking about and praying for and yes...collecting an offering to support the folks that have left the comforts and conveniences of home to share Christ in far away places around the globe.

My girl (sometimes also known as "my wife") grew up in East Africa--the daughter of missionaries. She spent more than a few Christmases far from home. This is one of the silly little songs she learned as a child in Africa at Christmastime. I dedicate these lyrics to all the devoted Christ followers who are celebrating Christmas this year in far away places that have customs and climates very different from what we experience in North America at Christmastime. Enjoy.

And God Bless Us...Everyone! (Name that movie...or book if you prefer.)

Santa's Using Zebras Now

Santa's using zebras now
to pull his Christmas sleigh
'cause a boy in Africa
wrote to him one day.
"Santa please stop by," he said,
"and bring some toys with you."
Santa's using zebras now
south of Timbuktu.

Donner, Blitzen, all the reindeer
put him on the spot -
they were used to ice and snow
but Africa was hot!
Then some zebras came along
and they pulled Santa through.
Santa's using zebras now
south of Timbuktu.

See the pyramids to by
and there's the Nile below.
Watch out for that tall giraffe;
mustn't fly too low.
Hello hippopotamus
the season's joy to you!
Hello Mr. Crocodile
merry Christmas too!

As they gallop over jungles
lions stop and stare,
wonderin' what those zebras could be
doing way up there.
While the reindeer wait for him
back home in their igloo,
Santa's using zebras now
south of Timbuktu.

Merry Christmas (2 days early)!!!

Live the Red,

Mark

Trouble...

2008-12-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

Gamma Cassiopiea Nebula, originally uploaded by DJMcCrady.

"When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him." (Matthew 2:3)

The Christmas story is not happy news to everyone. To some, it is the most troubling of all stories. It strikes fear into the hearts of many.

When the astronomers of old (Matthew calls them "wise men") tracked the star to Jerusalem, King Herod was filled with fear. The arrival of a new-born king was bone-chillingly threatening to an already paranoid king. In Herod's mind, there was no room for rival royalties. The madman Herod immediately began to craft an assassination plot. There can only be one king, he thought.

Even to this very day, the story of Christmas strikes fear. Christmas creates controversy. This morning, on one of the 24-hour news channels, an atheist was complaining about Christmas. "This is winter Solstice," he proclaimed. "The Christians stole it from us human beings," he continued. He wasn't finished. He continued to spew his venom. "All this hate speech coming from the nativity," he said. "Christians are telling us 'Believe in this little baby or go to hell!'"

At this point in the show, I really wanted to say to the guy, "Dude, switch to decaff!" Why all the rage? Why the stream of anger coming from this guy? And then it occurred to me...

The coming of Christ into the world is not just controversial...it is downright offensive. The gospel is offensive. As followers of Christ, we shouldn't be surprised by this.

A new King has arrived. This new-born king that we celebrate at Christmas is the King of all Kings, and the Lord of all Lords. And at His name, every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.

Jesus is the ultimate trouble-maker. He is the ultimate boat-rocker. As His followers, we'll do some boat-rocking of our own. Some people will dislike us, some with despise us, and still others will absolutely hate us. Even as you read this blog, somewhere in the world, a Christian is dying for his faith. Christ followers are hated because Jesus was hated.

I don't have any trouble with that because the King we serve creates trouble wherever He goes. His very presence challenges the status-quo in every person's life.

Maybe instead of a "Got Milk?" commercial, as followers of Christ we should ask each other, "Got Trouble?" More often than not, the answer will be "Yes!"

Live the Red,

Mark

Shepherds

2008-12-04T00:01:00.000-05:00

shepherd, originally uploaded by Reza Vaziri.

"And there were in the same country, shepherds abiding in the fields, keeping watch over their flocks by night." (Luke 2:8)

We have become so familiar with the Christmas story that we have sentimentalized almost every aspect of the story. We think of shepherds and all our reactions are positive and heart-warming. Shepherds have been depicted by artists down through the centuries with warm and satisfying tones amidst soothing pastoral scenery.

Here's the truth that we often miss. Shepherds then, and often now, are among the lowest of society. (If there are any real-life shepherds reading this, please don't report me to the sheep-herding anti-defamation league. No insult is intended.)

God reveals much of Himself when He intentionally includes shepherds in the Christmas drama. God dispatched His secret agents (otherwise known as angels) to announce Jesus' birth to...you got it....shepherds. Not kings, not rulers, not the wealthy, not the famous or talented. God brought good news via special delivery to the poorest of the poor...to lowly shepherds out in the fields.

This typically is God's "modus operandi" that is, His standard operating procedure. God comes to the lowly. God reveals Himself to the "down and outs" of society. So if you are an average or even below average kind of person, take heart and be encouraged. God specializes in using people just like you. God delights Himself in someone just like you.

Here's what God tells us in His Word, "For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong. God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are." (I Corinthians 1:26-28)

Why did God reveal His plan to shepherds? Simple. God uses average, ordinary, everyday kind of people. People just like you and me.

The question is, when God shows up in your life, will you respond to Him? Will you embrace His plan and purpose for your life? Will you love Him back? It's something for all of us to think about during this Christmas time of year.

Live the Red,

Mark

Anchored in History

2008-12-03T00:01:00.000-05:00

Temple of Poseidon, originally uploaded by 'Bobesh.

"And this taxing was first made when Quirinius was governor of Syria." (Luke 2:2)

I love the way the Biblical writers put a history date stamp on so much of their writings. As the Christmas narrative unfolds, barely a sentence is written before the author is firmly anchoring the story to historical events and verifiable information. This reference to Quirinius as the governor of Syria is a marvelous reminder that this story is not just an often-told myth. It is in fact real history.

The reference to a real leader is another way in which God beautifully authenticates His marvelous Word.

Our faith in the Christmas story as told in Matthew and Luke's gospel accounts, is not some random leap into the dark. It is not intellectual suicide to believe the Biblical accounts of the Christmas story. The birth of Christ is absolutely true. And the Biblical writers go to great lengths to make sure the readers understand that they are receiving an authentic, reliable account of the actual events as they happened.

Many years later, Paul, that great missionary and evangelist of the faith, presented his case to the King. "Paul said, 'I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words. For the king knows about these things, and to him I speak boldly. For I am persuaded that none of these things has escaped his notice, for this has not been done in a corner." (Acts 26:25,26)

Did you catch the last phrase in verse 26, "...for this has not been done in a corner." Indeed. The events described in the Biblical record are true and verifiable.

It's nice to know that as we celebrate the coming of Jesus into the world, we are actually celebrating an exciting time in world history.

The ancient buildings of Greece and Rome are now just decaying remnants of a glory that faded long ago. But the truth of God's Word stands as strong today as the day it was written. Heaven and earth will pass away, but God's Word stands the test of time.

The Christmas story is more than just a story. It is HIS story! It is the history of God's redemptive plan for all the ages.

Live the Red,

Mark

A Decree from Caesar

2008-12-02T00:01:00.001-05:00

golden dollars, originally uploaded by mtman22.

The plot thickens as the Christmas Story unfolds...

"...that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed." (Luke 2:1b)

We're so accustomed to the soft and sentimental version of the birth of Christ that we often overlook some of the more odious aspects of the narrative. Namely, the financial trauma that was gripping the civilized world at this time in history thanks to the tyranny of the Roman empire.

This was not a happy time for people. The whole economic system was in convulsions. Let's not imagine for one moment that the people of Palestine were delighted with the prospects of Rome taking more of their paltry income.

In the midst of this financial upheaval, God's redemptive plan was unfolding right on schedule.

We find ourselves in a similar monetary predicament. Today, and just today, the major news outlets reported that we have officially been in a recession since this time last year. That's encouraging--not in the least.

And with a new administration taking office next month, one can only wonder if a new decree from Caesar in our generation will mean more taxes in our immediate future.

At the time of Christ's birth and in the present day, economic conditions remain uncertain at best. But amidst all these financial fears--both real and imagined, one thing is certain. God is in control of history. History must bow to the gracious Providences of a loving Heavenly Father who is actively seeking and saving those who are spiritually lost. God is sovereign over all things--both good and bad.

No matter what the financial climate may be, the Son shines brighter and brighter. The storm clouds of financial hardship cannot dim His glory and grace.

Because of this ancient economic edict and the ensuing census, a man and his young wife arrived in the exact location foretold by the prophets. Not the smallest detail of the plan was overlooked. The miracle of Christ's birth happened exactly when and where God intended.

If your wallet begins to look thinner and thinner in the days and weeks ahead, just remember that God can use even the harshest of realities to advance His Kingdom--for His glory and your good.

Live the Red,

Mark

And it came to pass...

2008-12-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

Camel Caravan, Sahara Desert, Morocco, originally uploaded by Simon Purdy.

The Christmas story begins in Luke, chapter two with these immortal words...

"And it came to pass in those days..."

After 400 years of silence since the prophecies of Malachi, God entered the sweep of human history in an extraordinary way. God spoke through His angelic messenger to a young virgin named Mary, and a young man named Joseph, and to a group of shepherds keeping watch over their flocks.

And it came to pass...

The retelling of the Christmas Story each December is a powerful and poignant reminder that we serve a God who always keeps His promises. He promised a Messiah, a Savior, a Redeemer! Even though His timetable didn't match people's expectations, He arrived at exactly the appointed time. The writer of Galatians calls it the "fullness of time." (Galatians 4:4) The arrival of the Christ child took place at exactly the perfect moment in human history.

With a single candle burning on this the first week of Advent, take a few moments to reflect on God's perfect timing in your life. Your answer to prayer may not have come when you expected it or wanted it, but looking back with that hindsight of the 20-20 variety, you can now see the perfection of God's plan.

Maybe you're now praying another prayer. And you've been waiting. And waiting. And still no answer. You're beginning to question God's interest or involvement in your life.

The promise of Christmas is a beautiful reminder that we can trust God's timing in all things. If it is God's will. If it is a part of God's plan for your life...

...it will come to pass.

And one day, maybe sooner than you think, when you tell of God's faithfulness, part of the retelling will sound something like this..."and it came to pass."

Live the Red,

Mark

A Light Shining

2008-11-30T23:06:00.002-05:00

The Candle, originally uploaded by Rickydavid.

"The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined." Isaiah 9:2

Today is the first Sunday of Advent. Believers from around the globe are lighting a single candle today. It begins a sacred season of remembrance. It is a time of great spiritual anticipation.

As followers of Jesus who take the Scriptures seriously, we have a "Two Advent" theology. Advent literally means, "coming or arrival."

In a Two Advent theology, we celebrate the first Advent with the birth of Christ in Bethlehem. But even as we rejoice in the first Advent of Jesus, we look forward with great anticipation to the second Advent. Jesus is coming again. In that fact, we greatly rejoice.

As followers of Jesus @ the Bridge, we've been celebrating 60 Days of Blessing for almost a full month now. God has indeed blessed us in more ways than we can count.

As we enter into this special season of remembrance, the blessings will continue. The Scriptures will continue to come alive, and yes...the Lord will continue to work in us and through us.

Because of Jesus, we are people of the light. God's call upon our life is that we live in the light.

No matter how deep the darkness, don't despair--there is a light shining! Jesus is the Light of the world!

The promise of Christmas is a beautiful reminder of God's faithfulness. It is a fulfillment of the promise made by the prophet long ago.

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Live the Red,

Mark

The "60/60" Experiment

2008-10-30T10:35:00.000-05:00

Watch 002, originally uploaded by shutupyourface.

Imagine what your life would be like if you lived all of it--your eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life--in the presence of God.

How would your life be different if you were radically aware that the Lord was with you--all through the day, every day?

Jesus was spending time with two sisters--Martha and Mary. Martha was upset that Mary wasn't helping with kitchen duty. Jesus' response is enlightening. He said, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only a few things are necessary, really only one, for Mary has chosen the good part..." (Luke 10:41,42)

Spending time with Jesus was the one really necessary thing. What would it be like if we, like Mary, chose the "one necessary thing" and lived in the presence of God all through the day?

Pastor John Burke has led his congregation, Gateway Church in Austin, Texas to find out what it would be like. He has led them on a spiritual experience known as the "60/60" Experiment. Here's how he explains it:

"The 60-60 is a commitment to 60 days of trying to stay in continuous, honest conversation with God, willing to do his will moment by moment. The goal is to stay consciously aware all throughout your day that God is with you and desires a loving, trusting relationship. Try to turn your thoughts back to God as often as you can - as you work, talk it over with God; at every interaction ask, “What do you want me to say?”; at every decision consider, “What’s your will here?”; and as you stay in increasingly conscious contact with God, willing to follow, He will lead you into the life you deep down desire. We suggest you get a watch with a beeper or some kind of alarm that can go with you that will beep every 60 minutes as a reminder to stay connected. You’ll see, this simple conscious contact with God is not easy to do, but it’s all you have to do — everything else will begin to fall into place over time.

Even if you’re not yet convinced this is true — just try it. At least every 60 minutes for 60 days, stop and recall, “God is with me right now. He loves me and desires to give me good things — better than I can imagine,” and let that propel you to ask God, “Show me your will this next moment, I want to be willing to do your will as an act of love toward you.” Begin this experiment every 60 minutes for 60 days, and see if this isn’t the path to a far more satisfying life."

If you'd like to know more about the "60/60" Experiment, check out the website: www.soulrevolution.net The video testimonies are really worth a look.

This Sunday, November 2nd, is the first day of the last 60 days of 2008. Think about making this Sunday, which happens to be "Time Change Sunday," the beginning of the "60/60" Experiment in your life. All you need is a watch with a timer &/or an hourly chime and you've got what you need to begin this fascinating experience.

I'll never ask you to do something that I'm not willing to do myself. I've already begun the experiment in my own life, and I can tell you that God has already begun to show me some great stuff about His will for my life. My 60 Days has already begun. What about you?

Ask God if He wants you to take the challenge. What have you got to lose? Sixty minutes?

Live the Red,

Mark

I Saw The Lord

2008-10-07T09:50:00.000-05:00

The Mad Ones, originally uploaded by Ar'alani.

We are living in the midst of breathtaking change in the world right now. Economic upheaval is everywhere. The US stock market is in a free fall and international markets are feeling the effects.

In a matter of days, leadership will change in America. No matter who wins the election next month, America will have a new slate of leaders.

It's an anxious time and it's an uncertain time. People are scared. Jim Cramer, a respected high-profile Wall St. pundit was encouraging people to pull their money from the stock market yesterday.

Our current national and global situation reminds me of what happened in chapter six of Isaiah. The passage begins, "in the year of King Uzziah's death..." (Isa. 6:1) Don't underestimate the significance of that phrase. King Uzziah ruled in Judah for 52 years!!! He was considered to be one of Judah's most capable kings after Solomon's reign. Uzziah led Judah to great economic and military successes. Toward the end of his reign, pride led Uzziah to spiritual disobediences that causes him to experience the judgment of God. King Uzziah died in 740 BC.

In the midst of great upheaval, change and uncertainty, Isaiah makes a profound statement, "...I saw the Lord..." The prophet goes on to describe the incredible scene. He experienced God in all His majesty and splendor.

In the midst of our current economic and political situation, I want to see the Lord. I want to experience His presence in my life. I want to embrace Him. I want to feel His touch on my life. I hope you feel the same way.

In verse 5, Isaiah confesses, "Woe is me, for I am ruined!" That's what happens when we truly see the Lord. We are convicted of our unworthiness and our weakness and our sin.

Hosea 8:7 says, "For they sow the wind, and they reap a whirlwind." We as a nation have "sown the wind" with unbridled greed and sinful practices in business and commerce. We've shouted from the rooftops, "ethics and personal morality doesn't matter. Character doesn't matter--just give us economic prosperity!." The only problem is, people with bad morals make terrible choices. We praise the wizards of Wall St. who make zillions of dollars but divorce their wives. Like the old preacher said, "Payday, Someday!" Welcome to "Someday!"

For better or worse, God's got our attention! People are looking for answers. The answers coming from Capitol Hill are only making the problems worse! The $700B bailout is worse than a joke. It has solved nothing. It's like slapping a bandaid on a cancer.

Am I discouraged? No way. Am I depressed? Are you kidding me? Like my good friend Max Lucado said this morning...look at the numbers that really matter...3:16 and 8:28...John and Romans, that is! Those numbers don't go up and down. They bring strength and comfort to your life no matter what happens on Wall Street or Main Street, the White House or the Court House.

What happens when you truly "see" the Lord in your life? You hear God's clarion call to our generation-----"Go, and tell this people...!" (Isaiah 6:9) In chapter 40, God says, "Call out." When the prophet asks, "What shall I call out?" God says, "...The grass withers, the flower fades, but the Word of our God stands forever." (Isaiah 40:8)

May the turmoil of our current day give you eyes to see the Lord, high and lifted up! He's still on the throne of this universe!

In the midst of the money madness...

Live the Red,

Mark

Google's 10th Birthday

2008-09-27T09:35:00.000-05:00

Google's Logo in its 10th Birthday, originally uploaded by Ốc Nhồi.

It's hard to believe that Google has only been around for 10 years! It has become such a daily part of our lives.

Google has gone from being a noun..."Google is an Internet search engine"...to a verb...."I googled it," thus meaning to search for some information about a person, place, or thing.

As a part of their birthday celebration, the folks at Google have come up with an interesting idea. They call it the Project 10 to the 100th!

Google says, "Want to change the world? We do too. Project 10 to the 100th is a call for ideas to change the world by helping as many people as possible." Very interesting.

Google then offers eight areas where the world can be changed....
1. Community, 2. Opportunity, 3. Energy, 4. Environment, 5. Health, 6. Education, 7. Shelter, and then an ambiguous category...Everything Else!

If you're a serious follower of Jesus, you're probably pretty passionate about this "world changing" stuff. After all, Jesus Christ is the ultimate world changer!

While we may want to applaud Google for being so altruistic, they unfortunately have forgotten the most important thing. They have completely overlooked the most important thing in all the world. What is it? Glad you asked.

What the world needs now is not just...community, opportunity, energy, environment, health, education, and shelter. Don't misunderstand, these are important issues for life on this planet. But our life on this planet is just the beginning. As sinful human beings, we desperately need to be reconciled with the one true Holy God. We need forgiveness. We need salvation. We need to be rescued. In a word, we need "Jesus."

Jesus made a powerful statement that can inform our thinking on this issue. He said, "What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matthew 16:26)

Something to think about on Google's 10th birthday.

Happy Birthday Google!

Now as followers of Jesus, let's go out and REALLY change the world!

How do we start? What do we do first? It's simple, all you have to do is...

Live the Red,

Mark

Fireproof

2008-09-26T00:01:00.000-05:00

Fireproof Poster, originally uploaded by AsceticMonk.

A new movie premieres today, and it's called Fireproof. It stars Kirk Cameron.

Fireproof has been created by the same folks that gave us Facing the Giants.

Without giving the storyline away, this movie looks like it may be a great "date night" movie for young couples.

Fireproof is a movie with a message. It will be interesting to see how audiences respond to this latest offering from the Facing the Giants folks.

Along with the movie, there are a variety of Bible study and marriage enrichment resources tied to the movie. You can find them here .

By the way, I had two future firemen come to my door tonight that just happen to be bridgers. That's what I love about Ironbridge...it's a church filled with heroes.

Live the Red,

Mark

Seeing...

2008-09-22T09:55:00.000-05:00

monkey business, originally uploaded by Jibbo.

How appropriate that this picture should rank #1 on the photo-sharing site Flickr on SnapShot Sunday!

It's not just a gorgeous sunset...it's somebody capturing the moment through the lens of a camera.

One of the things we've learned through the ministry of SnapShot Sunday is the fact that we can simply "look" at the world around us, or we can do something far more important...we can really "see" the world. There's a huge difference.

Anybody, anywhere, at any time can "look" at the things around them. But "seeing," is something far more profound and important.

"Seeing" takes a keener eye, a sharper focus, and an awareness of God and what He's up to in the world.

A camera is just a little piece of technology that teaches us to "see" the world around us better than we would have otherwise.

I like the quote from photographer Dorothea Lange. She said, "The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera."

God wants you to see the world with profound clarity.

There was a time in Biblical history when the King of Syria was mad at the prophet Elisha. The Syrian king surrounded the town where Elisha was staying. Elisha's servant was scared to death..."what shall we do?" he asked. (2 Kings 6:15)

And then the rest of the story....

"Don't be afraid," the prophet answered. 'Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.'

And Elisha prayed, 'O LORD, open his eyes so he may see.' Then the LORD opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha." (2 Kings 6:16,17)

Open your eyes today and take a good look around. God wants you to really "see" what He's doing in your life today! If necessary, use a camera!

Live the Red,

Mark

SnapShot Sunday!

2008-09-21T07:20:00.000-05:00

mini flickr mixr, originally uploaded by Conny W.

We're all photographers today!

Welcome to SnapShot Sunday...the day that begs the questions, "What does a camera have to do with living the red? What does photography have to do with living the Christian life?"

I'm so glad you asked. There are some important answers.

The first answer is this--quite simply, a camera is an instrument, a tool, a device that helps us remember!

Remembering is one of the most important things that we can do as devoted followers of Jesus!

Throughout God's Word, the Lord encourages us to remember! Even more than that...He commands us to remember!

The Psalmist wrote..."I shall remember the deeds of the Lord, surely I will remember Your wonders of old."

A camera helps us capture the moments of our lives! It helps us become better story tellers.

Grab a camera today and take a few shots. Don't miss the wonderful things that God has in store for you today...and every day.

With camera in hand...

Live the Red,

Mark

SnapShot Sunday...One Day & Counting...

2008-09-20T00:01:00.000-05:00

Vai vovó, originally uploaded by Bruno Mooca.

Today, Saturday, is the calm before the "shooting" storm.

Tomorrow, Sunday, September 21st is our first SnapShot Sunday. It may be our last. You never know about these things. Being creative and innovative is risky...even in a cutting edge church like the Bridge.

It will be interesting to see how many people actually bring a camera with them to church. How many will stay away suffering from chronic "camera shyness?"

What will the impact of Roy Burroughs be? Here is a man who has traveled the world with a camera--capturing images of what God is doing around the world. He'll be sharing some of his shots. Will his story impact our lives?

And then there is the message...

A message about cameras and taking pictures...but it is a message about soooooo much more than that.

It is a message about how God has worked and is working in the world. It is a message about our individual lives. It is a message about how we see ourselves.

Sunday promises to be a "Kodak moment."

Charge up your batteries! Fasten your shoulder straps. Load the film...or pop in a new memory stick.

Remove the lens cover and let's get ready to shoot.

It's SnapShot Sunday...or at least it will be tomorrow.

With camera in hand...

Live the Red,

Mark

Yearnings...

2008-09-19T08:50:00.000-05:00

Just another day, originally uploaded by m o d e.

Following Jesus was intended to be a life-long adventure filled with experiences that are best understood when seen through the lens of eternity.

I'm afraid that we have taken the adventure and de-constructed it into the form and function of a series of joyless God tasks. Our lives become an endless series of pious "to-do's" that rob us of the thrill of knowing and enjoying God as our constant companion.

Michael Hyatt is President and CEO of Thomas Nelson Publishing. He offers this quote on his blog as one of his favorites. It's a powerful commentary on what has gone wrong with our disciple-making.

Here's the quote...

“If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up the men to gather wood, divide the work and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.” –Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Think of the implications for the Christ-following life. Maybe we could rephrase the quote for our benefit...

"If you want to experience the eternal, don't ask people to build buildings, form committees, and write by-laws. Instead, teach them to yearn for the great and glorious, eternal God."

More often than not, we're asking the wrong questions. We ask, "Are we building wisely? Are we organized? Do we have great strategy? Have we effective systems?"

The right question...maybe the only needful question is simply this--"In the hearts of the people whose lives we touch, are we creating a yearning for God?"

What am I really yearning for? What are you really yearning for?

Are we hungry for more of God?

Let's not just build gospel ships...let's fall in love with the one who has measured the waters of all the seas in the hollow of His hand!

Live the Red,

Mark