NavigaXion

Imagination

2009-10-25T22:40:00.002-04:00

Why is it so difficult to reach people for Christ in America today? Why does it take so long for some of our friends and neighbors to see Jesus in us and come to receive Him as Lord? Why can we hear of multitudes of people responding to an invitation to come to Christ in some other nations of the world but seldom here in the USA?
Perhaps our friends see our inconsistencies and hypocrisy and reject Jesus because of our lack of character. It may be blamed on a previous “bad experience” in church. It may be due to our neglect of prayer and intercession on their behalf. All of these, without a doubt, contribute to the moral decline of America in general and the responsiveness of those we love and pray for in particular.

In addition to these, I am becoming more and more convinced that people in our culture are more difficult to reach than most others in the world. In part, the reason includes the fact that our culture has embraced the postmodern rejection of meta-narrative along with moral relativism, religious pluralism, and individual liberty. Creativity and innovation are a higher value to most than stability, continuity, and tradition. Everyone’s reality is defined by the individual rather than by an outside standard or authority. One author declared, “Reality has confronted imagination, and reality has lost.”

Recently, Marjie and I viewed a National Geographic documentary called “Monsters of the Deep.” Allegedly, the story was about the life journey of a pre-historic sea creature. The 45 minute film was approximately 90% computer generated animation depicting the conditions this little creature experienced from birth to death along with its adventures of escaping from the predators until finally experiencing a natural death. The entire story was so life like that one could easily assume the film depicted the actual life of this creature. However, the truth is that archaeologists found the skeletal remains of an animal with a shark tooth embedded in a bone, and from that one finding, the story was created known as “Monsters of the Deep.” Interesting! Educational? Never mind, if it is true or not. Imagination developed a story based on very little evidence but depicted it in a most believable way.

This is the context of our culture and how people get their information and how they form their views of the world around us. Their belief system is influenced by many such visual and audio presentations, usually without their critiquing the reality of what has been communicated.

What does this have to do with faith in Christ? Everything! As Christians, we deal with reality. The foundation of our faith is not based on imagination or virtual reality. It is founded on the historical fact of Jesus actual birth, life, death, and resurrection from the dead, and ascension into heaven. It calls for total commitment to a God who must be trusted and believed in as the Lord of all and Savior through his atoning sacrifice on the cross. Total, absolute commitment to the Creator of the universe is not what people are normally looking for. That would cost and require too much.
Here is my question: How can we communicate this greatest of all messages in a more creative, imaginative manner without compromising the truth of God’s Word? What have you done to spark people’s imagination through creative means in your church or ministry?

Utterance Gifts

2009-10-11T20:59:00.004-04:00

Pentecostals are noted for belief in the current relevance of utterance gifts that are distributed by the Holy Spirit. When exercised within the context of the gathering of believers, the object is to allow for their expression without allowing for "wild fire" to take over and hijack the service by being dominated by personalities and personal agendas rather the edification of the body of Christ. Every pastor has struggled with how to encourage the appropriate use of these gifts without encouraging the misuse of these gifts.

The AG leadership has recently published three resources that I highly recommend to you for personal study as well as potential study by the people in the local congregation. All three are short and very readable but direct and helpful. I encourage each of our pastors to consider how one or more of these might assist in the healthy development of the saint's use of the utterance gifts. These can be purchased from GPH or call headquarters in Springfield. They are...

1. When the Spirit Speaks, by Warren Bullock,
2. Living in the Spirit, by George O. Wood, and
3. Divine Order, compiled by Randy Hurst

I trust these will be an asset to you in teaching and training your people in the proper use of the gifts of the Spirit.

Eurasia Experience

2009-10-08T22:18:00.006-04:00

We just completed our Ministers Enrichment yesterday morning at the Philip Bongiorno Conference Center in Carlisle, PA. Many expressed the impact the week had upon their lives and their renewed passion of reaching our world for Christ. I would like to invite you to share what was most meaningful to you. Was it...

1. The worship and prayer time,
2. Huldah Buntain,
3. One of Omar Beiler's messages,
4. One of the workshops,
5. The amazing meals,
6. The Eurasia Experience itself on Tuesday evening,
7. Interacting with friends, or
8. Something else you want to reference?

If you were not able to be with us, you missed a good one. (I hope they all are, of course.) Perhaps you would want to comment on something that particularly impacted you heart.

G-20 Summit

2009-09-20T19:20:00.003-04:00

All eyes interested and concerned about the current global economic issues will be directed to our own Steel City on September 24-25. Appropriately, leaders of the top twenty economic nations of our world will gather for discussion, planning, and collaboration on next steps in dealing with the financial challenges now being faced.

There are three points I would like to make on this blog.

First, prayer for our leaders is called for in Scripture and this provides an opportunity to exercise the God-given mandate around a specific issue that has very practical implications. If we as believers can't be motivated to pray for our President and other leaders of the world during this event, I doubt much short of a threat of war or terrorist attacks will prompt us to action. Therefore, I encourage us to take some time on these two days to petition the Lord for protection, wisdom, and His favor during these gatherings. These leaders may or may not seek the Lord's guidance, but we can pray for that for them regardless.

Second, a reminder is in order that the kingdom of God is not dependent on the economic conditions of the world. While we all realize that fact, we sometimes allow the news media's reports to give far to much influence on the way we think of our work and service for the Kingdom of God. Nations rise and fall, but the promise of our Lord remains that He will build His Church.

Third, when was the last time your family had an economic summit? Perhaps I could ask it this way: Is your financial house in order? Finances are tough for many in our nation and that is true for those of us in ministry as well as those in secular employment. Do all you can to eliminate debt. Credit card debt is the worst method of financing family needs. We must all take personal responsibility for our finances. If we want God's favor on our finances, we should be Scriptural and give the Lord our best, not our left overs.

May God grant His blessing and favor as we seek first His Kingdom. He will add all these other things to us as well.

Jesus, Others, You

2009-09-17T20:37:00.004-04:00

As a child, we were given the real definition of joy; Jesus, Others, and You. What a wonderful way to spell joy!

It seems the older one gets the more significant those early lessons of life become. Simply put, when life is all about our own issues, concerns, even interests and passions, we easily become focused on self. It doesn't seem that way at first because we are so taken with the important issues close at hand that we loose sight of what is really important. Our goals, ambitions, even calling from God drive us to activity, efforts and they capture our attention. In our maturity, we easily 'grow' past the weightier issues in our walk with Him.

I am not advocating an anti-intellectual approach to our walk with Christ. I do not believe the Lord wants us to put our brain on a shelf and not use it, after all, we are called to love the Lord with alll our heart, soul, mind, and strength. However, over thinking, analyzing, complicating the simplicity of Christ we can forfeit the joy of the Lord that is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10).

Maybe it is time to return to the definition of joy. Rather than trying to find joy in what we do, even what we do for the Lord, it is time to get back to the relationship that really matters. Rather than being so busy for the Lord, take the time to be with the Lord. Let your joy be restored and with it you will find your strength will be restored as well.

RTB = Reasons to Believe

2009-05-03T19:56:00.004-04:00

The Connect Group of which I am a part just finished reading one of Hugh Ross's recent books called Why the Universe Is the Way It Is. You may or may not agree with everything he says (like for example, the debate between young earth and ancient earth theorists), but this volume delivers on giving us reasons to believe from a scientist's point of view.

This apologetic argues for a creator, the uncaused cause, who initiated the singularity we read about in Genesis 1. Those who study the origins of the universe in the scientific community have reached the conclusion that the universe has a beginning. (No surprise to creationists of course.) There was something or someone outside of the cosmos that began this process in what they call the Big Bang.

This has enormous significance to those of us who believe in miracles. If that One initiated the universe in what could easily be called a miracle of creation, why cannot that same One intervene within his creation to perform another miracle by superseding the laws of physics within the time and space continuum. The Virgin Birth, the Resurrection, Ascension, etc. are not difficult for the one who created something out of nothing. Turning water into wine, multiplying bread and fish to feed 4 or 5 thousand people, healing blind eyes, and raising the dead don't seem to far fetched in comparison to the creation of the universe. If he can do all of these, why could He not also accomplish the miraculous among us today?

The next time you have the opportunity on a clear night, take another look at the stars in the sky. Let your mind embrace the wonder of what God has done. Be in awe of the One who said, "Let there be light" and it was done. What an indescribable, incredible God we serve!

Gratitude-RGE

2009-04-05T21:22:00.004-04:00

This weekend was marked with the celebration of Palm Sunday, when believers around the world are reminded of Jesus entry into Jerusalem offering himself as the King of Israel. Knowing this King is the greatest of all blessings and calls for the highest of praise to our King. In the midst of the praise and thanksgiving, I was reminded of three additional blessings. They were unexpected, for my mind was preoccupied by what are more noble reasons to rejoice; salvation, redemption, the atonement, justification, and the Lordship of Christ. Yet, I felt overwhelmed with thanksgiving at three amazing blessings.

1. Rain - The simple fact that rain falls from the sky on the just and the unjust speaks of the incredible grace of God to us all. Normally, blue skies and the warmth of the summer sun are my preferences. But without the rain, too much of a good thing can bring drought and famine. Rain changes that and brings life and vitality to the ground. I am grateful for rain.

2. Grass - I don't like to mow it, but someone must do the job. Grass demands the opportunity of pushing its way up through the earth. Gravel, pavement, just about anything eventually gives way to the buried seed as it reaches toward the sky. Simple yet profound, grass may be pretty as a well manicured lawn, but it serves a greater purpose. In fact, grass is a primary beginning link in the food chain. Without grass, the animal life on this planet would not last long. It provides a basic necessity for the existence of so much of life.

3. Earthworms - These little creatures are usually unseen, but they provide an amazingly indispensable service in softening the earth by tunneling under the surface. Some use worms to catch fish. They are also beneficial for the ground's nutrient value through their digestive processes. Unseen, unnoticed, and usually thought of as unimportant, they simply do what they do.

Gratitude springs from an awareness of God's gifts. Often we are recipients of his grace without our being aware of his gifts to us. These three little items may seem unimportant, but indeed, they are vital to our very existence. Rain, grass, and earthworms may not be at the top of your list of items to appreciate, but they do represent God's grace to us, if we recognize them or not. May God give us hearts to appreciate His bountiful gifts.

Prophetic Warnings

2009-03-20T13:24:00.005-04:00

Some have inquired regarding the recent prophetic warning from David Wilkerson. Several thoughts may be appropriate. I will not quote his statements in this blog since they have been distributed widely already. You may Google a search if you want the direct references.

1. I have long held David Wilkerson with high respect. I believe him to be a man of God who conducts himself with integrity and godliness. Yes, I do view him as a modern day prophet.

2. That being said, today's prophets are not to be viewed with the same degree of authority or inerrancy as the prophets or apostles in Scripture. They may be anointed but still fallible. Therefore, their words, including Bro. Wilkerson's, must be weighted in light of Scripture and tested for accuracy.

3. Bro. Wilkerson does not give any dates as to when the coming disaster will occur. Those who have followed his ministry for a long period of time are aware that he has previously given similar words of warning.

4. The prophet calls people to repentance. Action should be directed toward righteous living and turning from sin. The practical word was personal for him; i.e., having a month supply of water, non-perishable foods and toiletries on hand because when this occurs the grocery stores shelves will rapidly empty out. To me that sounds like a wise course of action under most circumstances. Many live from paycheck to paycheck with little room for reserves. (As a child, I remember my mother canning green beans, peaches, corn and many other items for the cold winter months. Not a bad idea.) Notice Bro. Wilkerson does not tell believers to flee to the mountains or any such thing. Panic is not called for, rather trust in the Lord and good common sense.

5. It would be unwise to focus the people of your congregation on the fear of catastrophe and create a panic. The times are uncertain and many are fearful. Believers need not be fearful to be circumspect. How would hoarding food, water and other essentials glorify God? There is no way to collect enough of those essentials to care for everyone in your community. How would you decide who to help and who not to help if the disaster does occur? Also, remember, a day with the Lord is as a thousand years and a thousand years as a day.

6. The pastoral role is to encourage people to walk with Christ, knowing the days are evil. There will continue to be wars and rumors of wars, famine, pestilence, earthquakes, etc. and believers need to be reminded of that reality. As Jesus said, "Let not your heart be troubled!"

7. We believe in the eminent return of our Lord. Let us watch and pray, looking up, for our redemption draws nigh!

BLESSINGS

2009-02-27T23:02:00.004-05:00

Navigating the journey of life and ministry would be so much more difficult and not nearly as satisfying without the blessings the Lord gives along the path. The blessings I am thinking about today are the women He has placed in my life.

About ten years ago my mother went to be with the Lord. What a loss! I still wish I could call and talk with her. It is not the loss of her great baking skills that I miss the most, although her red velvet cake was the best! Just to hear her voice and for her to remind me she is praying for me would be so good! Next, I am thinking of my mother-in-law. Earlier this week she called and wanted to bring dinner over for Marjie and me. We had a feast! She is awesome! Probably the greatest evangelist (yes I did say evangelist) I have ever know. She never preached in a crusade, but her heart beats for friends who have yet to meet Jesus personally. Then there is my granddaughters, all three of them! They are the cutest, smartest, most fun little darlings I can imagine! Special is an understatement. They melt me! Then I think of my daughter and daughter-in-law. These two young women are incredible women of God who are great mothers and wives. How I got so "lucky" to have them as a part of my family is beyond my wildest wish. Finally, there is my wife Marjie, the primary reason my offspring turned out so incredibly wonderful. There are no words that express how she has enriched my life. She exemplifies the woman depicted in the classic passage, Proverbs 31.

Many other people have significantly influenced me through the years, but these members of the fairer gender bring such joy, pleasure, fulfillment, and focus that it just feels to me like I should tell some body (That is another truth from Proverbs 31, "the city gates" issue). Perhaps you have a similar testimony. I often thank God for the things he has done for me, but I need to thank the people he has placed in my life that have blessed me. Maybe there are some ladies you would want to express gratitude to as well. I often fail to express my appreciation to most of those who are such a support to me, but none as much as these ladies. Without them, where would I be? Thank you, Lord, for godly women who make such a profound difference in this world.

Language

2009-02-16T18:38:00.005-05:00

The language we use expresses the condition of our heart. The writer of Scripture under the anointing of the Spirit states, "From the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." Recently, someone used a four letter word in conversation then followed that up with, "Pardon my French." Obviously, the word wasn't French. What was his heart's condition? I don't know, but something was wrong.

The media, including news, film, and entertainment, often use language that at one time was not allowed on the air ways. The standard continues to change with some networks pushing the envelop as far as they can. As followers of Jesus, it is easy to become callous to what we hear and barely take notice. When otherwise family entertainment takes on this type of language, one wonders if the old timers who preached against TV weren't right after all.

What has become even more troublesome to me is the trend by some ministers to use language for effect that will shock or startle the audience, or make them sound more hip or relevant. The use of the four letter words, you know what they are, can sometimes get a response from listeners, especially the younger generation who may be more influenced by Hollywood than by the Word of God. While I have never heard of a pastor loosing credentials because of the use of fowl language, I have heard pastors loose credibility because of an improper use of language.

We are constantly bombarded by images and ideas from the world in which we live. The Scripture, not culture, must be our source of faith and practice. God's Word still sets the standard. "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their need, that it may benefit those who listen" Ephesians 4:29.

Trust

2009-02-09T19:41:00.004-05:00

Two names in the news struck me today as a contrast in character; Sully and A-Rod. Now, understand that I do not have personal knowledge of either of these gentlemen, however, they present a tremendous contrast for people in our nation. Sully, the reluctant hero, just did his job and saved over a hundred lives in the process. His expression to the media credited his team members with hero status, not him. One report indicated the co-pilot stated to the rescue workers, "We only got these people into the water (the Hudson), while you got them out," giving credit to the rescue workers of New York City. America looks up to these five crew members with admiration and respect. We may look at the people in the cockpit of the plane we fly in a little differently the next time we go to fly.

A-Rod was "young and naive" according to his statement in an interview. He wanted to be the best player of all time, and now... Well, all his accomplishments are suspect. He may be a great player and have set many records, but he will never be looked at in the same way again. The would-be hero and roll model has lost the respect of his fans and most of the sports world. How tragic! He may be a wonderful individual, but the shame will be a part of his record.

We that are involved in ministry were once looked on with respect and admiration. People looked to their pastor as a man of God who was worthy of respect and loyalty. From our own circle have come Jimmy Swaggart, Jim Bakker, and most recently, Ted Haggard. The lack of trust that results from such high profile individuals is disturbing to say the least. To some, we will be forever tarnished because of what in some people's minds is the association that exists between us and them. I am very happy to leave the judgement of others to the Lord, but we still must deal with the repercussions of other's actions.

When we loose the trust of those to whom we are called to serve, our ministry to them is over. We must live up to what we preach. We have a responsibility to act and live in such a way as to be an example to the flock. Some, even behind the pulpit, wish to be great and attain notoriety. Perhaps we should re-evaluate whether we are closer to A-Rod or Sully in our ambition and quest for greatness. Above all, let us be trust-worthy and honor our Lord so that our testimony will be pleasing to the Lord and we will honor Him.

The Big Day

2009-01-31T16:35:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow is the day many have been looking forward to for a long time. Many hours have been spent in preparation. The opposition has been evaluated from every vantage point imaginable. The strengths and weaknesses have been scrutinized so that there will be few if any surprises. The defense is ready to go. The offense knows what to expect and how to make their plays. The plan is in place. The warriors are ready. The Big Day is almost here. Many have speculated about the potential outcome. The countdown has begun.

Tomorrow will be a day of victory for some and defeat for others. Which side will you be on? You see, lives are in the balance. Their eternal destiny is at stake. Every Sunday is Superbowl Sunday because it pits the forces of the Kingdom against the minions of hell. The preparation is the key. Just showing up to "do your things" is not acceptable. Too much is at stake! A prayer-less, careless, lethargic preacher would be like the coach leading his team into the Superbowl without any thought of a game plan for how the game should be played. The eternal risks are too great for that to happen. Individual's destiny will be determined by the results of what occurs on this most important day of the week.

The Steelers and the Cardinals will do battle on the field in Tampa Bay. They do it for the pride of the ring they hope to wear, the trophy they want to receive, and the paycheck to be enjoyed. We prepare for Sunday knowing that so much more is at stake. How can we approach this day without the overwhelming sense of the importance of what we are preparing to accomplish? Get ready! The Big Day is almost here. Let's do battle for the Lord!

Self-Deception

2009-01-24T18:56:00.003-05:00

Samson may be the classic example of someone greatly used by God whose life ended in disaster. How can someone fall to such depths after experiencing the awesome power of God and moving in the gifts of God? Sadly, things don't seem to change much. Today, ministers fall into the enemies traps just as Samson did. No one is beyond temptation and the enemies lies. It is too easy to believe in ones own abilities and ignore the warning signs that are often all too obvious to others.

The story of Samson and Delilah is not far removed from some in our world today. Delilah enticed Samson to explain the secret of his great strength. Three times he gave her a false explanation, each time coming closer to the truth. Each time she played him for a fool and tried his explanation to take away his strength. When he finally told her the truth, she predictably cut off his hair. What was he thinking? Why would he reveal his secret to her and expose himself to potential disaster?

Self-deception is a terrible danger. Samson fell in love and the rest was all down hill. Any time a man or woman of God allows themselves the freedom to compromise with evil and toy with the world's devises, he/she is going down a road of no return. Anyone could have seen where Samson was headed, but he didn't know what was happening. He was so confident in himself, that he did not recognize the obvious.

Sadly, the worst was yet to come. Judges 16:20 records the words, "He did not know that the Lord had left him." Self-deception can do horrible things to people. It can lead a person to trust in their own ability, be over confident in themselves, and not walk in obedience to God's Word. Humility seldom comes up as a high priority in characteristics desired in leaders. Yet, it may be one of the most neglected and most needed for leaders in the church today. Samson can teach us much about what not to do. The lesson for today is this, don't trust yourself. Walk in humility before the Lord. The alternative is self-deception which leads to disaster.

Inauguration

2009-01-18T20:30:00.007-05:00

Excitement, anticipation, and hope mark the nation as we await the inauguration of our new President. Many have set the bar so high for the new President that it is hard believe anyone could live up to the hype. Others criticize to the point of negativism with unsubstantiated rumor and gossip unbecoming for followers of Jesus. The Bible calls for believers to pray for our leaders. We need not agree with all policies to recognize our responsibility to intercede for those in authority over us. Politics have never been the real hope of America or any other nation on earth. Our hope is in the Lord. "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." The responsibility for righteousness rests with the people of God.

The media covers the events leading up to the swearing in ceremony providing a view of the party atmosphere that surrounds the event. I am reminded of another "party" that is coming, I believe in the near future. The day is coming when the King will return and begin his rule here on this planet. Economic challenges, peace in the Middle East, wars around the world will be under His dominion and control. The excitement, anticipation, and hope will be fulfilled in Jesus. We do pray for our nation and the issues that impact our world. However, our hope is in Christ. He alone will have the ultimate answers to our sin sick, disease ridden, war torn world. Even so, come Lord Jesus!

Week of Prayer

2009-01-03T19:53:00.006-05:00

The first week of each year prayer is emphasized in the Assemblies of God. While prayer should be a constant in the life of believers and Pentecostal churches all year long, the first week is a special opportunity to seek the Lord. In his short volume, Pierced by the Word, John Piper provides a meditation on Colossians 4:2-4 that is instructive for us.

Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.
At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word,
To declare the mystery of Christ...
that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.

Piper makes five points regarding prayer.
1. Continue steadfastly in prayer; perseverance in prayer yields results (Luke 11:8, 18:1-8)
2. Be watchful in your prayers; be mentally, spiritually, and physically alert in prayer (Mark 14:37-38). Being alert keeps us true to Scripture and attune to the voice of the Spirit as well as to the needs around us.
3. Be thankful in prayer; thanksgiving lifts our eyes beyond our need to the provider who can do all things.
4. Pray for an open door for the word; receptive hearts in both the church and unbelievers are essential to the work of the Spirit.
5. Pray for the preachers; no preacher, no matter the talent, can accomplish what the Spirit alone can do. Without Christ, we can do nothing.

May prayer permeate all we do throughout 2009 so that we may effectively proclaim His truth for the building of the Kingdom of God.

It is finished!

2009-01-02T10:22:00.003-05:00

Jesus' last words on the cross ring with a simplicity and profoundness that thrills his disciples and encourages their hearts, knowing that the work of salvation has once and for all been accomplished on their behalf. Nothing is missing and there is no lack in what is needed for our eternal souls. All we need do is to "work out our salvation with fear and trembling." Some might claim this is a contradiction in the Scripture; i.e. that He has done it all but that we have something to do. There is no contradiction here at all. The opportunity for us to participate in his plan provides great fulfillment, joy, and challenge to those of us who love him and desire above all things to please our Father.

Navigating the journey of life and ministry becomes so much more joyful when it is recognized that He has completed the work required but that we can join with him in his plan. As I reflect on my own life of ministry, my most frustrating times were when I took the full responsibility for ministry and momentarily shouldered the task of building the church on my own. That my friend, is a load no earthly leader can achieve. In fact, it is not up to you or me to make "His" Church grow. Only he can do that. When we find ourselves building our own church, we effectively leave him out of the process and are taking the responsibility of doing our own thing. Serving the Lord in ministry does not always mean success from a perspective of finances, numerical growth, or human achievement. I do believe that God calls us to effective ministry, but I have been around too long to believe that success in ministry can always be measured through the natural eye.

The finished work of Christ on the cross assures the believer that God is sufficient to accomplish the work he wants done. He will do that through you and me as well. We obviously have a role to play in his kingdom but don't shoulder it alone this year. We can work for him. But we must never work without him. When we work with him we find his yoke is easy and his burden is light. Whatever 2009 may have in store, this I know. Jesus has completed the work of salvation and our job is to proclaim that "It is finished!"

Convoluted

2008-12-24T20:53:00.005-05:00

Have you ever thought of the ways of God as being convoluted? Perhaps it sounds a bit disrespectful or irreverent, but many of us have felt that way even if we have not been willing to express our opinion in so many words. According to Webster’s New Dictionary, convoluted means, “1. folded in curved or tortuous windings, 2. involved, intricate.” It seems that so much of God’s ways are not simple and to the point but indirect, complex and often difficult to understand with the natural mind. Can you imagine how difficult it must have been for Joseph to grasp God’s plan to use the woman to whom he was pledged to marry as the mother of the messiah through a miraculous intervention by God. Why would God choose a manger as the birth place of his son? Why reveal the birth of Jesus to the shepherds? Why have the Magi make the trip to deliver gifts to the child and then allow the slaughter of the innocent children? Why choose Mary? Why in Bethlehem? Why? Why? Why?

We can look back on these events and give an explanation for many of the why questions. I seriously doubt those involved at the time would have known what we know or had the insight we currently possess. Perhaps you have had some unanswered questions as well. You may wonder why certain things have occurred in your life. You may even be tempted to feel that the ways of God in your circumstances are convoluted. They don’t always make sense. Life can feel out of control. Like God is somewhere else and not involved in or perhaps even interested in your issues. We know better of course, but …

God’s ways are not our ways. His plans and purposes are often not what we would expect not wish. Yet, his ways are best. But, they still may seem convoluted from the view of the natural way of thinking. If that describes you this year, may I suggest you try an experiment? Put yourself in the position of one of the characters of the Nativity narrative. How must they have felt? What would that have thought about their circumstances? How did they process the challenges they faced?

So often our walk with the Lord comes down to a simple concept, faith. I will trust when I cannot see. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In a culture where the modern world view with its scientific method dominates our way of thinking, pain, suffering, discomfort, and unanswered questions is often seen as old fashioned and unnecessary. God, however, still desires his children to trust him and walk in faith, trusting him and his goodness even when the path appears to be convoluted. Christmas is outmoded and old fashioned to those who do not know our Lord. To those of us who know him, it makes perfect sense. Someday, the circumstances of our lives will be understood and recognized as the perfect plan of God. Until then, may we walk in faith and trust his heart even though his plan does not make sense.

Merry Christmas!

Christology

2008-12-13T16:50:00.003-05:00

Education provides opportunities to grow and learn about ideas that might well escape our attention in the normal course of life and thought. One course included in my studies at a liberal seminary I attend some years ago was called "Christology." I joyfully signed up for the three credits anticipating the future discovery of new insights and deeper understanding of the Incarnate Word.

Purchasing the required texts was disappointing because of the lack of exegetical approach to Scripture pursued by the authors. Entering the classroom and reviewing the syllabus produced a similar response. The essence of the professor's view of Christ revolved around the concept of what was called "Creative Transformation." There is a little of Christ in everyone, some more than others. Jesus possessed the greatest amount along with other great religious leaders as well as anyone who exhibited creativity that resulted in change. Jesus (mythological character to be sure, according to the 'teacher') possessed a greater amount of this creative transformation than most and may be considered a prototype for Christians. Developing your inner christ is the goal of the Christian life.

How sad! No, pathetic might be a better choice of words. Compromising, heretical, and unfaithful to a sound biblical theology would be accurate terms as well. I have never ceased to be amazed that intelligent people can totally distort a clear reading of the biblical text to develop a theory with absolutely no bases in the text of Scripture. Christology as Creative Transformation? Please! Nothing is as profound, creative, or worthy of discovery as the living Word of God! Hear the words of the text...

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth" (John 1:1, 14 NIV). We celebrate the coming of the Incarnate One who became a human being in order to redeem humanity and provide reconciliation to the Father. "Yet to all who received him, to those who believe in his name, he gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:12 NIV).

Incredible truth and profound mystery! Our Savior came as a baby to live his life and give his life for you and me. May we be forever captivated by the wonder of the miracle of the Incarnate Word. We celebrate Him! Our Christology is nothing less than the person and work of Jesus of Nazareth.

Advent

2008-12-03T20:50:00.003-05:00

The prophesies of the coming of the Messiah run through the Old Testament Scriptures proclaiming the hope of "God with us." Isaiah 11 declares "A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a branch will bear fruit." Not very majestic and not much glamour in that pronouncement! But for we who know Him, the reality grips our hearts and fills us with hope and anticipation.

Isaiah 11 reminds us that Jesus came to bring us hope. He reigns in our hearts as King and Lord. One look around us reveals that everything has not been fulfilled that is recorded in this passage. The lion and bear are still predators and no parent will allow their child to play where a cobra dwells. We still live in a world filled with pain, sorrow, grief and toil. Some teach the Christ rescues us from all the pain and sorrow in life. Many have found that He keeps them in the midst of the problems of life. Historically, the greatest appeal of Christ has been that the cross reveals that Jesus understands our pain and because he endured the agony of death on the tree. Yes, He is a miracle working God. Nothing is too difficult for the Lord.

Still, we live in this world where sickness, death, and sorrow still exist and followers of Jesus are not exempt from those realities. There is a hope for the believer that far surpasses even the hope for deliverance in the here and now. Yes we can and should trust God for his intervention in our sickness, pain, and problems. The greater hope is in the promise of the King. Not just the manger baby, but also the coming King who will be the fulfillment of Isaiah 11. He has come to be the Branch that will bear fruit. The Spirit of the Lord rests upon Him. He will judge righteously! He will slay the wicked! The nations will rally to him! "for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea." (vs. 9).

The celebration of Christmas is not just about the baby. It is about the hope we all have in Him!

Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T14:55:00.005-05:00

Have a Great Thanksgiving Celebration

Psalms 121

121:1 I look up toward the hills.

From where does my help come?

121:2 My help comes from the Lord,

the Creator of heaven and earth!

121:3 May he not allow your foot to slip!

May your protector not sleep!

121:4 Look! Israel’s protector

does not sleep or slumber!

121:5 The Lord is your protector;

the Lord is the shade at your right hand.

121:6 The sun will not harm you by day,

or the moon by night.

121:7 The Lord will protect you from all harm;

he will protect your life.

121:8 The Lord will protect you in all you do,

now and forevermore.

Overcoming Fear

2008-11-17T20:24:00.004-05:00

At a recent large gathering of followers of Jesus the altar call resulted in a couple hundred individuals responding for prayer and spiritual support. Afterwards it was reported (I do not know if this was accurate) that 98% of those coming forward needed prayer because of fear relating to personal issues, mostly finances. In recent conversations with both pastors and people in our churches, I have found the same reality. People are worried about their finances, the global economy, world events especially potential terrorism, and the future in general.

I understand the feeling! Thirty minutes into CNN or Fox News Network and I must remove myself from the tube and find something more edifying to occupy my mind. May I suggest a reprieve from the news? What would we miss if we did not watch the latest news reports, read the paper, or listen to the latest radio talk show. Can you do without the EIB Network for a week? Would you really be deprived if you gave up reading the newspaper or Internet news wire for a week?

You just might discover a refreshment occurring in your spirit. The anxiety may just subside as you take a little more time in the Word and listening to the voice of God. It is wonderful to live in an age of instant information and total connectedness with your neighbor, family, and the entire world of information. I am not opposed to that. However, the distraction can be insidious and dangerous when the voice of God becomes muffled or drowned out by the noise of the voices that clamor for our attention. Try it and see what happens. Then let me know what you discover.

Elections and Voting

2008-11-04T15:59:00.003-05:00

Voting in an election is a very American thing to do. We do it for national, state, and local government officials. Trade unions make this their means of choosing leadership as does the PTA, corporate presidents by the board of directors or those who own company stocks, and school board members. Even the church, in many organizations elect their leadership, including the AG. Today in America, a new president as well as many other offices will be filled through the casting of ballots.

The danger with democracy, is that we view the choosing of leaders as a human endeavor. We feel we have voted them in and we can also vote them out. While technically that may be true, we have a larger responsibility in the matter. First, Scripture reveals that the authorities that exist are placed there by God. This requires the those who wish to obey God's Word are to obey those authorities and give them respect for the office they hold. Second, we are to pray for those in authority. It is difficult to sincerely pray for those we are criticizing or rebelling against. Third, being followers of Jesus raises the standard by which we are to live in relationship to everyone around us, including the civic leaders with which we either agree or disagree. Our witness for Christ in our community is more important that our economic, social, or international preferences. Does that require us to agree with those in leadership? Certainly not. But it does require us to disagree agreeably.

By this time tomorrow, we should know (hopefully) the identity of our next President. No matter who that person may be, we will choose to support, love, respect, and pray for that person and the other people placed in positions of leadership. Jesus will still be Lord of the Church and the soon coming King to whom all authority and rule belongs. He is working out His will in our world. May the Church be who He has called us to be and live out the reality of His Lordship in all we do.

The Shack

2008-11-01T21:04:00.003-04:00

The C3 group of which I am a part is reading The Shack by Wm. Paul Young for our upcoming meeting. I just finished reading it this evening. I found myself challenged, encouraged, in tears, and hungry for a deeper relationship with God. I am aware that some have criticized the book. Have you read it and how did you respond to it either positively or negatively. I have enjoyed the writings of C.S.Lewis both from a literary perspective as well as the pure enjoyment of his stories and thought provoking views of life, theology, and the Scriptures. Some have compared The Shack to Pilgrim's Progress. Would you agree or disagree?

Crisis

2008-10-26T16:49:00.003-04:00

The recent financial crisis, both domestic and global, have brought many to a place of anxiety in their personal lives as well as regarding the future of our nation and world. It doesn't seem to matter what your practices have been as an individual. You may be very disciplined in your financial dealings, but the fact is that you and I are impacted by what is happening in the world today. By not getting into debt, living within you means, and giving the Lord first priority in our lives, including tithing, provides a confidence for the future. That does not mean we will not experience any negative effects from the environment in which we live, but we can be confident the the righteous will not be forsaken. PTL!

Two passages come to mind during these challenging times. The first one states "If my people whio are called by my name will humble themselves and pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin and heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14) The responsibility for our nation is significantly influenced by the people of God. When the Church becomes the Church Jesus intended it to be, the nation will be greatly benefited. We as the people of God must get serious about serving God and all that means. We are to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. The second passage states "When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?" (Psalm 11:3) This Scripture challenges me to search my heart and re-examine my actions. It seems to leave you with the answer, "Not much!" This is where our faith and trust in the Lord comes into view. Some things we can change, others we cannot. Either way, our trust is in the Lord. He holds our future. Our trust in not in a politician, political party, financial advisors, Wall Street or anyone else.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6) It is good to know our confidence is in Him!

Enrichment Reflections

2008-10-11T17:32:00.004-04:00

Many have commented on this year's Ministers Enrichment with Dr. David Lim. Two areas were of particular significance for me.

First, many individuals were significantly impacted by the ministry. I lost count how many people made comments like, "I was set free" and "God broke through in my life" and "I can go home and continue to minister for Christ," etc. There was great personal encouragement received by many during this week at the Conference Center. Several specifically asked that I invite Dr. Lim back to minister to us again. I don't currently have any plans for that to happen, but we will be in prayer for what God has for us in the future.

Second, the corporate ministry was significant. Three issues stand out to me. One, the body ministered in awesome ways to the body. This was the most powerful time I have ever observed of pastors praying for and encouraging one another. It reinforces to me the truth that "We're Better Together." Two, learning the principles of how to test the gifts was very helpful. Some have made the gifts so sacred that to test them is unacceptable. That concept is not biblical and practicing the discernment through accountability and feedback was very helpful. Three, we as Pentecostal should be very aware of the voice of God in our inner man. The reality is that we all too often wait for God to "scream" at us through the more demonstrative gifts, whereas learning to listen to the still small voice of our Lord is so important.

Spirit living is supernatural, but as we heard once again, it is also natural. The balance is healthy and helpful to us all. May the Spirit lead us into all He has for us so that Jesus may be exalted in all things!