Insight For Today

Who will you vote for president?

2012-01-31T08:09:00.000-08:00

Who will you vote for president in the upcoming elections? The Arizona primaries are now less than 1 month from now and who I cast my vote for will depend on that person's track record and his stand on the issues. The candidate I want is the man who knows what he believes and why he believes it.

Likewise, in the pastorate I realize the importance of knowing what I believe and why. I am not talking about basic theology, which to the untrained or uninterested person may seem confusing, difficult to understand, and irrelevant: doctrines such as sublapsarianism, christology, and soteriology I studied in seminary (and continue to learn about the depths of these teachings).

While these and other theological doctrines do shape the framework of a pastor's ministry, these truths are rarely where most Christians struggle and stumble in their day to day existence as followers of Jesus.

And that is exactly my point of this blog, I am learning the importance of knowing what I believe and why concerning the common issues of the everyday life of Christians. I cannot exist in the ivory places of theology for very long. For it has been on rare occasion of anyone ever asking me, "In the mind of God, did He first plan the death of Christ before or after he planned to create the universe and the fall of humanity?"

On the contrary, I have to ask myself some of the following questions as I encounter daily a variety of situations, comments, and beliefs:

Why do I value ordination? Will I baptize a person without requiring he or she becomes a member of the local church? Why do I passionately believe Christians should be part of a local body of believers and not just serve the body of Christ without any local church affiliation? Do I marry people who are living together? How do I handle people who are not team players in the church and can disrupt unity? How do I work with people of different levels of intelligence, spirituality, and cohesiveness? What about elder lead churches verses congregation ruled churches? How often should we offer the Lord's Supper? Why do I believe there are good business practices we need to practice in the church? And how do I balance good common sense business practices with the Spirit of God? How do we do church? Why do we do church? How does a church call for commitment and accountability without being legalistic? How do we emphasize godliness and not sound judgmental? Why should Christians strive to willingly give up at least 10% of their hard earned income, especially in hard economic times? Small home groups, Sunday Morning Bible study or both? How can every member of a church move together in unity?

I have learned everyone has an opinion, right, wrong, or indifferent, expressed or not spoken. However, I must remain resolved to continue understanding and learning what I believe and why, moving forward to living out my faith and calling; to serve my Lord and Him alone. To stand on my convictions. It is a privileged journey of a ride I am thankful to be riding.

Just a small glimpse in the head of this preacher. As always, I welcome your comments.

There is No Substitute for Experience

2012-01-17T08:01:00.000-08:00

There is no substitute for experience. 

I had heard this phrase many times throughout my life, in the Marine Corps, the Semiconductor industry, and I have learned the same truth applies to the gospel ministry. 

Granted, the previous 47 years of my life, prior to full time ministry, filled with the life experiences of the Marine Corps, secular employment, family, part time ministry, church life, and 19 years of schooling has aided in closing up the learning power curve, there simply is no experience for the actual work of full time ministry.

I can’t give specify any particular events… 

However, I can share:

I am learning the power of simple, concrete biblical messages. Only the word of God changes lives and I need to strive conveying biblical truth with clarity and simplicity. I need to get the point across and trust the Spirit of God for the rest.

I am learning the power of focus. Focus is important not only for my life but for the life of the church. This forces questions like “Where are we going and how do we get there?”  Bottom line is becoming Christ like (personally) and accomplishing the purpose of the church (making disciples).

I am learning to observe. This means not just listening to what is being said but what actually takes place.  It is one thing to be a hearer of the Word, quite another to follow through. The road to Hades is paved with good intentions. 

I am learning the importance of discernment. This is married to the idea observing; what is said is not what is always meant.  Discernment means the ability to correctly judge the motives of others.  This is admittedly one of my weaknesses. 

I am learning to think even more critically. I don’t mean of people but thinking through my own actions and motives; to becoming greater in my reflective thinking.

I am learning the tension of leadership: “How much is pull, how much is lead?”  This one may sound odd but think about it for a moment. 

I will write it again: There is no substitute for experience. Can you relate?

Hard Rock Cafe: Linkin Park

2011-12-27T18:28:00.000-08:00

I just finished watching Linkin Park's video Numb. I don't regularly listen to this type of genre, although they are quite talented musicians in the band.

I watched this video in particular because of the message it portrays. The title caught my attention. In this video a young woman, who appears to be in her late teens, early twenty's, appears numb, not connecting with friends, shunned on campus, disjointed from society, apathetic towards her single mother. She is crying out, hurting. No one is listening, no one cares. At the end of the video she runs into a large empty church, down the center isle, as if to find hope. She end up at the microphone where the band had been playing for the video. Emphatically, I held back crying along with her, but I realized it wasn't real.

The careful viewer is left with the impression the author of this song obviously was writing out of his or her own numbness, despair, and pain, crying out into a dark filled night. I mean think about it, don't the most powerful lyrics we hear seem to only come from the heart which has experienced such powerful feelings and from the lips of those who seem so credible that we believe they are sincere?

What disturbs me most about this video is the woman found no real answer, no real satisfaction. It seems, neither did the person who writes the lyrics.

This person expresses unresolved pain, despair, numbness, hopelessness.

And that is my point, out of the heart and life experience one writes, one sings, one lives.

But now, I turn to another video, one that lifts my soul, expresses my love and worship of God, a video which resonates and screams out God I love you! You are wonderful, powerful, awesome, mighty! I am thankful, I have hope, I have life through Jesus Christ.

This person expresses resolved pain, joy, abundance, and hope!

Now two points to ponder.

First, for the one who doesn't follow Jesus, which type of life do you desire? One filled with unresolved pain, despair, numbness, and hopelessness or a life filled with resolved pain, joy, abundance and hope?

Second, for the follower of Jesus. Ever wonder how the writer of your favorite hymn, praise song, worship song, video, or Christian song came up with the lyrics? That person lived out what he or she wrote. Meaning, the Christian faith just doesn't happen, it takes time and energy to pray, reflect in and on the Word, and dwell on God's attributes before we might begin to better understand Him.

Just a few thought I have been thinking about for a few days.

It's a gay delimma

2011-12-25T20:53:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day is nearly over and the presents are probably now put away. Tomorrow many people will return back to work, but only for a short week, gearing up for the New Year which culminates with a Saturday Night New Year’s eve.
Ahh Christmas, a day where the world seems to be at peace, but if only for a brief moment. For this moment people look at a baby born in a manger as a symbol; a symbol of God’s love, God’s gift to humanity- Sprinkled with images of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snow Man, and Santa Claus, of parties, merry making, and a lot of eating too many sweets. People seem a little nicer to one another, if not just for this day, Christmas Day.

But what if people understood what that baby in the manger really represented? What if they knew, intimately, that He grew up to be a man, God, Immanuel, God is with us. And that this man was the man who is capable of bringing each of us to a place of peace with our Creator?

The gay dilemma is for only a short day people focus, however slightly, on this baby born in a stable over 2,000 years ago as some symbol of peace. He was no ruler, held no official government office, he wrote no books, was not married, owned very little, and had to be buried in someone else’s grave. Yet he changed the landscape of history forever.

Makes you wonder there might be something to his claim, I am the resurrection and the life, He who trusts in me as their Savior, will not see eternal death but life everlasting. In fact, if you go to visit his grave, he isn’t there.

"I'll Put Another Gift Under the Tree"

2011-12-18T22:07:00.000-08:00

"I need to go home and put another gift under the tree," she told me, as she walked toward the door. This was a woman leaving our worship service today at FSBCPV.

What makes this statement so satisfying for me is she said in a statement what reflected the thought of my sermon.

In sermon preparation, working, reflecting, and laboring several hours becomes for me a worship of God. The fruit of that worship is why I step behind the pulpit every Sunday,

That fruit is changed lives, not to just convey knowledge or even truth. The intended aim of preaching is first change in my own life and then the life change of the listeners.

Which is exactly what took place when this woman told me she was going home to put another gift under the tree. She understood and was planning to act upon the truth presented through God's word.

I pray each week I get behind the pulpit the fruit displayed is changed lives.

Finding My Own Voice

2011-12-14T07:26:00.000-08:00

Preaching is one of the most unique and awesome responsibilities given. Each week, preachers make the 10 foot trip from the pew to pulpit to do one thing, speak for God. It is something that one should not take lightly. Before I began preaching with any regularity, I used to think, "Wow, how can that guy do that?" Each week opening and explaining with clarity and force the words of God. I was impressed.

Now, nearing 2.5 short years in full time ministry myself I think, "Wow, how can I do this?" To misspeak or misrepresent God is a fearful thing. To not present God's Word according to how it is written seems such a gross sin. As I consider these thoughts and the further I journey onward in preaching, the more I feel and recognize my inadequacies.

How paradoxical, abnormal; God uses men like me, feet of clay, inadequate, and often too inconsistent, still too self-centered to present His truth. It is a humbling thought.

As I journey through my experience, however, I can take comfort in knowing that I am at a point I believe every preacher comes to in his ministry. I am beginning to find my own voice. I am beginning to understand why I stand and what I hope to accomplish behind the pulpit each week. I am no Piper, MacArthur, Warren, Swindoll, or Ortberg. Rather I am who God created me. And, I clearly see now, more than ever, that presenting God's truth is best done through one's own personality.

As I am finding my own voice, I am learning afresh that preaching is not pleasing my listeners. This is not the same thing as allowing my listeners to be able to follow my thoughts or thinking. If people can't understand my methodology then what is the sense of proclaiming it to others?

What I mean rather is preaching is worship. I preach to please God. I do this best when I represent His Word with clarity and passion. When I am able to articulate His Word and explain it according to how He means it presented. Then, I believe God is most glorified and well-pleased.

How exactly I present His Word, according to my own unique personality, is what I mean about finding my own voice. It is a liberating thought. There is no right way to present God's word, except it is done faithful to the text and faithful to my own personality.

Just a few thoughts inside this preacher's head.

Without Christ, There Would Be No Christmas

2011-12-07T07:22:00.000-08:00

I imagine, just for a moment. What happened if there were no Christ? There would be no presents, gift giving, tunes like "I'll be home for Christmas," Christmas cheer, parties, white elephant gifts, caroling, merry making, Christmas cookies, a crowded, every filling calendar, no Christmas lights, trees, Santa Claus, Rudolf the Red-nose Reindeer, or even the loveable Frosty the Snow Man.

More importantly, there would no Immanuel God is with us, no God in the flesh, No songs like "Little Drummer Boy," "O Little Town of Bethlehem." No Nativity scenes, three wise men, shepherds in the field. No Christmas story in Luke chapter 2 of the Bible of a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths. No Savior, no peace, no hope, or real joy.

Rather, life would consist of grabbing all of the fun and pleasure we could hope to grab with two clenching fists. Eat and Drink today for tomorrow we die.

So, join with me this year, this Christmas season, let us be careful to remember why this season exists.

Stop and think, reflect: What it is and who we are really celebrating. The greatest gift of all, the gift of peace with a holy, righteous God made available because of a little baby boy born long ago in a stable in a place called Bethlehem.

Reflect on how Your life would be different today if it were not for this gift of a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths.

Let the whole world know-

Without Christ, there would be no Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

To me this is worship

2011-11-08T11:19:00.000-08:00

Recently, through some meditation and reflection on Scripture, I have realized afresh the prominence of preaching staying true to the original message of the Bible. There is so much written on church growth, reaching people, and how to grow a bigger, larger church etc., that there is a temptation to try and woo people with rhetoric and the perfect speaking voice.

It is my conviction as I live out what I teach, if I faithfully (re) proclaim God’s truth, the Holy Spirit will convict listens according to the original intent God had in mind when the Scriptures were first penned.

This is of utmost importance: I don’t preach conventional wisdom, my thoughts, or something I can get from watching Dr. Phil. I teach what the Bible teaches.

Therefore, as the church gathers every Sunday:

Worship is taking place as we pray, bringing our hearts before the throne of God saying Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord God the Almighty who was and who is and who is to come.

Worship takes place as we lift our voices to express our gratitude, our love, faith, and commitment to Him who died for us.

Worship takes place as I offer to God my offering of the sermon' it is a gift offered to Him in the promise His spirit uses the words spoken to lift up the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I offer the sermon to please Him as a form of worship that I have been true, faithful, consistent, and correct in what I teach.

Finally, worship takes places as the listeners hear the voice of God and they respond in greater faith and obedience to God through the Lord Jesus.

To me this is worship.

Read a good book lately?

2011-10-27T06:30:00.000-07:00

Read a good book lately? Sometimes, nothing can be better than curling up on the couch with a good book and a hot cup of joe (or whatever is your favorite beverage)! Time alone to just relax, be quite, read, and enjoy.

When I was younger, much younger, I was an avid reader of Science Fiction. I loved it. I still remember when the Scholastic order at school took place; I begged my mother to buy me as many books as she could afford.

You know the Bible was written as a book or a letter, actually several. When originally written, the chapters and verses (versification) did not exist.

So, next time you want up to take time out of your day to read the next new novel, or returning to the dog paged book, try reading through one of the smaller NT letters at one sitting.Read the letter as it was originally written.

Perhaps imagine you just received a lengthy Email from a good friend. You are anxious to hear what news and information this Email contains. So, take 30 minutes or so and prayerfully read through the letter in its entirety. Not only will you be blessed but you will gain a greater understanding of how God desires to work today in your own life.

Try it, you'll like it!

What are your priorities?

2011-10-10T15:25:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like a Stretch Armstrong? However, unlike this toy, which always returned to it's original shape no matter how far stretched, when we overstretch ourselves with commitments, deadlines, and responsibilities we sometimes are left tired and ineffective. Because of the fast pace of society and often crammed appointment calendars, we are all wise to learn how to prioritize.

I appreciate what I read one pastor commented, "When we have more than two or three priorities we really have no priorities at all."

Therefore, I am resolved not to do a mediocre job with many things but I choose to do a few things to the utmost of my ability through the God given talents and gifts given me. One of my priorities is to preach well. I have been consistently learning how to preach well over the past 2 years since I am afforded the role of pastor.

Just as in the Christian faith, I will never reach perfection. Yet, each week I am allowed the opportunity to share a biblical message which is designed to encourage others to embrace God, see His glory, magnify the Savior, Jesus Christ, and learn how to place their faith in a Living God.

I continue to earnestly pray that each week I effectively communicate, through my unique personality, God's truth to capture the hearts, minds, and wills of my ever so patient listeners. To proclaim logic on fire.

Because I am not Stretch Armstrong, I am Ed Peterson.

Interested in buying a new car?

2011-10-01T09:20:00.000-07:00

When people are looking at dealerships for a new car, what exactly attracts their attention? Foremost it is the car. People are looking to meet their needs. Their foremost consideration is not what incentives the dealership offers, how the show room floor has just been remolded, or the placement of spot lights and banners catching the by passer's attention.

Unless a person is looking for a new car, none of the above actions will keep her or his attention.

One particular book given to me recently has been most thought stimulating. In this book the author likens those looking for a church to those looking for a new car. People begin looking for a church when they need something. It is not the programs a church offers, the remolding that has been completed, or the advertising on the Web or placement of street signs.

In other words, it is the need which first attracts a person to begin looking for a church.

What do people need? While there are many needs, here is what I have determined as the top four in random order:

1) People need to meet their spiritual needs. Everything falls and rises on leadership. Therefore, the feeding rises and falls on my teaching. This is my main responsibility, as a pastor, to feed the sheep. My teaching and preaching needs to be biblical sound, accurate, presented with authority. However, it must meet the people's spiritual needs, answer their questions to life, give them hope, insight, encouragement, and faith.

2) People need to connect. This means people need to feel they are part of the church. The fancy word is assimilation. Assimilation is where a person begins to feel like this is their church home, she or he can begin developing relationships with the people of the church. A place she or he can feel comfortable inviting others, serve within, investing time, energy, and resources, a place to raise children.

3) People need to serve. People need to be able to use their spiritual giftedness and visualize they are making a difference in Kingdom work. Unless a person feels they are contributing beyond themselves, they begin to feel dissatisfied.

4) People need to worship. In other words people need to be able to walk away from a worship service with the sense God has touched their lives. The people of the church, the music, the teaching, the sharing of lives, all contribute to this element of worship.

Are programs, remolding, and advertising wrong? Of course not. They obviously have their place by getting the attention of those realizing the above needs.

I am only stating unless the above four needs are meet, to some degree for everyone, a church will go into decline or become stagnant.

I would be interested in your feedback. Maybe you can offer a few more needs people look for in a local church?

police in the church

2011-08-29T05:07:00.001-07:00

It is 4:40 am Monday morning. Twenty minutes ago the alarm company, Secure Net, called me saying the police had been dispatched because of an alarm in the sanctuary.

I arrived as one police officer was walking the sanctuary's parameter. I opened up the building, disarming the system.

A few minutes later another squad car arrived and two more police men were in the building.

I waited a few minutes to ensure all was clear and entered the building.

No worries, it was a false alarm.

I did,however, tell the three men standing in our building I hoped this wasn't the first time they had been in church for awhile.

They all chuckled. I don't know if it were guilty laughs.

I didn't even invite them to church.

I was too tired. My brain wasn't turned on yet.

I hope it hasn't been awhile since you were in worship either. If so, hope to see you Sunday. Its good for you.

Proud of my church

2011-08-16T12:41:00.000-07:00

Can I say that I am proud of my church? I believe so. God does not like a proud heart, a heart which is self sufficient to the neglect of a relationship void of His love and trust. However, to take great pleasure in the obedience or in the goodness of the actions of someone else, which points that glory to God, is perfectly acceptable. (Think of it when you are proud your son or daughter when he or she accomplishes graduating from school for instance).

So, yes, I am proud of my church. I am proud because the people of FSBCPV want to please God. Yep, too often we all (especially preachers) can become caught in the trap of loving God and pleasing people, instead of pleasing God and loving people.

But back to my main point. I am proud of my church because the people of FSBCPV want to please God in doing what they understand Scripture teaches.

1. Please God supremely (through obedience to his Word).
2. Love one another.

What more an exciting place is there to be, than a pastor where people have their priorities straight! I am proud to be a pastor of such a fine church.

By the way, here is a candid picture of the place we meet. The building is not the church, rather the people who make up the congregation!
Hope to see you there on Sunday!

What constitutes church membership?

2011-06-23T14:49:00.000-07:00

As I am sitting here working on Sunday's sermon, a thought occurred to me. "What exactly constitutes church membership?"

First one most important clarification.

When I mention church I am not referring to the catholic (that is little c, universal) church. I am referring to the local body of believers, such as FSBCPV, who meet at a specific place or building, on a regular basis to carry out the purpose (evangelism, discipleship, worship, and fellowship) of the church. Incidentally, in New Testament writings, nearly ever incident of the word church used (112 times in the NASB) is referring to a local body of believers, not the universal church.

Ok, so what exactly constitutes church membership in the local body of believers? Is it more than walking down the aisle, going through a new member's class, and showing up once in a while for morning worship tossing in a few bucks because of guilt?

Please tell me how does a person claim membership in a church yet that person does not participate in the life of the church?

What is participation? Certainly it doesn't mean being an armchair member, does it?

If a person does NOT regularly pray with and for, attend corporate Bible study and worship, evangelize (share Jesus and invite people to home Bible studies and worship), disciple and mentor others in the church, participate in corporate prayer, fellowship, encourage, love other members, and financially support that local body, please tell me, "How does your non-participation constitute membership?"

By definition, church membership necessitates active participation. I understand if people have to work, are on vacation, or are otherwise are incapacitated. And if you are home bound, you can still pray, give, mentor simply by picking up the phone and staying connected via modern technology.

And this, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, is what it means to be a church member. In all sincerity, if you call yourself a church member and you do not somehow regularly participate in the life of your church, who has YOUR name on their resident membership rolls, in layman's terms:

Come on, give me a break! Really??

Life is short, and in this life we are preparing for eternity. God desires to be glorified through the local body of believers. I pray, for the glory of our Father, you are an active member of your congregation.

See you Sunday.

Dealing with the Stench

2011-05-30T08:16:00.000-07:00

In John Chapter 11 is the story of Jesus raising from the dead his friend Lazarus. The Bible tells us that when Jesus ordered the stone to be removed from Lazarus' tomb, Martha, Lazarus' sister, remarked that the tomb would stink.

This didn't stop Jesus. And while I understand Jesus wanted to glorify the Father and illustrate that He, Jesus, had power over death, what strikes me is how John shows in this passage the emotion of our the Lord Jesus Christ.

Several times Jesus shows his love for Lazarus, showing genuine emotion: he was troubled in spirit, He wept, being deeply moved in spirit. This teaches me as a pastor I need to let people know I care for, love, and pray for them. Sometimes it is not enough to tell them, but rather to show it through my actions and emotions. Often, I need to do a gut check on my own emotions and ask myself if I am showing real empathy.

It is a different thing to cry for someone in pain or sorrow, one who is going through difficult times, to sit with someone who just lost their spouse, mother, or father to death. It is quite another process altogether to cry with a person who is in pain, experiencing sorrow, grief, or difficult times.

I am learning the difference of being a preacher and a pastor. People need both.

It can be tough, showing emotion, at least for me. However, as I study the life of Jesus I understand more and more how He was motivated by compassion and love. He gives me an excellent example.

My heart is only so large, but I can thank God He gives me the capacity to care in ways I never thought I could.

In the most practical sense this is what I am being reminded again:

The pastorate is not a job, it is a calling, a calling to bring one's self to the altar of God, to die to selfish ambition, gain, or glory, and care for people more than I care for myself.

If all of us were motivated by such care about others as we were for ourselves, I wonder what type of church we would have?

The Rapture happens in 4 days!

2011-05-17T11:43:00.000-07:00

This is what Harold Camping would have us to believe anyway. I have seen the signs (billboards that is) hoisted up around town proclaiming the Bible guarantees Christ is returning on May 21, 2011. I have heard they are nationwide. Camping proclaims millions of people will die this day with the end of the world taking place on October 21, 2011.

Camping has recalculated his formula (since he had already predicted this in the mid 1990s) based upon Scripture found in the Epistle of Peter and a time table based upon the Genesis Flood.

Family Radio, started by Camping, has become the beacon of truth alerting believers and non-believers alike of the pending judgment.

What should be the Christians response? While I will not openly criticize Camping or this organization, his interpretation is based on numerology and not solid principles of biblical interpretation.

Jesus said in Matthew 24:35-36:
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away. But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone."

I am sorry Harold, you are included in Jesus' "no one"

What believers should be doing is living each day as though our Savior may return. Live each day in the will of the Father. Be prepared as Jesus taught in the parable of the Ten Virgins. Any day, hour, or moment our Lord may return, either by the taking up of the church or through death, all of us should be prepared.

This means if you Christian are not living in obedience, if you are coveting your neighbor's wife, if you are living in sexuality immorality or drunkenness, addicted to drugs, lying, cheating, or otherwise directly living in disobedience, repent, seek accountability and help. Stop it today! Live the abundant life. Do not be embarrassed by the coming of your Lord.

If you have never called upon Jesus Christ as Lord, today is the day to make peace with God. Any of us can be here this moment and gone the next. In an accident, through sudden circumstances beyond your control. There no guarantee of tomorrow for anyone. We all have not lived up to God's holy standard. God is a holy and righteous. Nothing impure will enter heaven. Today call upon Jesus as Lord.

Therefore, will Jesus come for his church on Saturday, May 21st? Maybe but unlikely, but then again He could come tonight, next week, next month or in the year 2022. No one knows.

It is our responsibility Christian to continue living each moment as though it were our last.

Be prepared, Be Holy, Be Watchful.

(check out this website for solid answers)
http://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-coming-back.html

A response to the death of Osama bin Laden

2011-05-03T11:02:00.000-07:00

A response to the death of Osama bin Laden.

"Geronimo-E KIA" This was the message sent to President Obama that Osama bin Laden, the most wanted man in the world for the past decade, had been killed. The words, sent by Navy Seal Team Six, were a coded message. Geronimo was the code word for the leader of Al Qaeda responsible for the death of nearly 3,000 people on September 11, 2001. It was the greatest enemy attack on American soil ever in US history.

What should be the Christian response to news of bin Laden's death?

First, when someone else takes the life of another human being, the person responsible is not only taking another life, that person is destroying the image of God. God considers all life sacred. In Genesis 9:5-6 God instructs Moses, "Surely I will require your lifeblood; from every beast I will require it. And from from every man, from every man's brother I will require the life of man. Whoever sheds man's blood, by man his blood shall be shed. For in the image of God He made man."

Therefore, Osama bin Laden, whether he was responsible for the death of only one person or nearly 3,000 on 9-11, in the the sight of God received a just reward.
Many of you may immediately think of Jesus' words found in Matthew 5:38 and following: "You have heard it said, 'An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth' But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also."

These words of Jesus are not in opposition to capital punishment but rather He is telling His followers not to hold bitterness or seek out revenge against someone who has harmed us. It is God's judgment and not ours that we must seek. If someone breaks into my home at night and kills a family member, I am not going to simply turn my cheek, do nothing, and offer another family member. No, this person is going to meet my two friends, "Smith" and "Wesson." It is my role not to hold bitterness in my heart.

If you have every lost a family member, close friend, or co-worker through a senseless death, such as 9-11, my heart goes out to you. I speak from experience having lost my own mother to a violent crime.

However, my heart also goes out to people such as Osama bin Laden. Please let me explain. As followers of Jesus Christ, we are not to seek revenge based upon bitterness and hated, but solely upon God's justice. And while we are sickened by such ideology filled with such disregard for human beings, all of us created in the image of God. Our response must be consistent with Scripture.

Paul wrote in Romans chapter 12: 14 "Bless those who persecute you: bless and do not curse." And again in verse 19-21: "Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. "But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink: for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head [a good thing]." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."

So, while we as Christians here in America feel satisfied justice is complete, never let us forget our hearts should break for those who are ruthless, diabolical, and just plain evil.

Remember, they too were created in the image of God. Jesus Christ paid the plenty for all sin, including such men as Osama bin Laden. The good news is, regardless of our past, for those who bend their knees and hearts in confession as Jesus as Lord, forgiveness, grace, and mercy is theirs. None of us can out sin the grace of God through the Lord Jesus Christ.

Capital punishment, yes. Did bin Laden receive justice, absolutely. Are we to harbor feelings of revenge and bitterness, never. Such emotions never bring back the dead.

The majority of us will never be a direct victim of a violent crime or have a person such as bin Laden affect us personally. However, we all have people cross our paths on a daily basis who are less than desirable to be in contact. People who are bitter, mean, ungodly, hateful, or spiteful. And no, I am not talking about your spouse! The question is how will respond to such people? Will we react in revenge or act mean spirited toward this person? Or will we join the Apostle Paul in blessing, praying, and even go so far as to meet their needs?

You decide, follower of Christ.

Do I have to go?

2011-04-11T07:04:00.000-07:00

I am reminded of the joke where the grown man is complaining to his wife about going to church, "But the people don't like me there honey," besides, he continues, " I really just don't feel like going today!"

"But you have to go dear, your the pastor!" His wife retorts.

Funny joke, and no I have never felt this way. But, somehow every Sunday I think many people just don't feel like going and therefore don't.

Well, I here a few objections already. However, first I realize many people have to work on Sundays. Been there done that, 20 years in the Marine Corps many times I wasn't even with rifle shot of a church (no pun intended). And, there has been a few days, ok probably several when I was sick. Have I ever played "hooky" from church? Sure, though those times have been far and few in between.

Many might say, well the church isn't the building. True, I reply, however it is the people who make up the church, but they do meet in a building! Here is how I look at it from my perspective (saved out of a hellish lifestyle at age 18, called to ministry at age 37, part time ministry for 10 years, full time ministry at age 48):

I was saved at a church meeting (prayer meeting).
I was baptized during a Sunday morning service.
I meet my one (and only) wife at church.
I have developed my closet relationships through the church's ministry.
I was called to preach during the Lord's Supper during Sunday morning service.
I have learned what it means to be a follower of Christ through the church.
I have never heard the truth proclaimed like I have at church.
It is through the church I see lives changed, transformed, and challenged.

Christ gave his life for the church.

Paul wrote many of his Epistles starting out like this: To the church at .... (not the church at large but a specific group of people who meet in homes).

The writer of Hebrews writes that we should not neglect the meeting together of one another as many already have failed into the habit of doing (my paraphrase).

One day I met a man who was an avid baseball fan. He loved baseball, knew all the stats, records, and batting averages of his team. But, he never went to a game. Oh, occasionally I will catch a game on TV whenever I feel like it... hmmmmm....

It really is a matter of priorities, right? After all the day is burning day light...and have I prioritized my day already to the glory of God? Have I examined the Scriptures? Spend time in prayer? Or, am I already fully engaged because I gotta get some much accomplished today I don't have time to spend with God?

Christ made it a habit to worship regularly in the Synagogue (his church)...

I don't want to end on a sour note. I am challenged to present the Word of God each week in a way that will challenge folks to know what it means to follow Jesus as Lord in their daily lives.... I need to preach more than the Big 4... you know come to church/give/pray/love one another.... If I always preach the same thing I could better understand why people didn't feel like going...then again, just don't use this for an excuse :)

See you Sunday!

guarding the heart

2011-04-05T10:12:00.000-07:00

Prayer, I have learned, is not reading my laundry list of needs and wants, desires and dreams to God. On the contrary prayer is picture of Jacob found in Genesis 22. Here I read that Jacob wrestled with the angel of the God refusing to let go until Jacob received a blessing. He didn't let go until God responded.

So, as I pray the goal is not to always just vent....sometimes that is part of it... but when I am seeking answers, God's face, direction, courage, wisdom, strength, power, when I am waiting on God... I need to just linger in His presence for awhile. In the busy world of a pastor, this is always time well spent.

And then the other day I was reminded of the promise of Philippians 4:7. The peace of God is not just a promise I can claim but is what actually happens in response to my praying. God provides my spirit His total sense of peace and control. The only answer I may get is his peace. And that is ok.

I am learning.

2011-03-29T09:09:00.001-07:00

I continue to learn as a pastor. The latest epiphanies (hey, sometimes it takes me a time or three to learn):
1. BATHE everything decision in prayer.
2. Only involve someone if that someone is either part of the issue or part of the solution.
3. Every sermon needs the solid foundation of biblical truth. In layman's term, preach the Bible. Only the Bible changes lives and not my opinion.
4. There is no substitute for solitary, uninterupted prayer. Call out to God, seek His face and only His approval.

I am thankful I serve a gracious, patient God.

Reader Input Requested!

2011-03-21T20:47:00.000-07:00

I just finished a quick read of Prayer Shield "How to Intercede for Pastors, Christian Leaders and Others on the Spiritual Frontlines." I recommend it.

Two quick notes

1. I covet anyone's intercession for me as a pastor!

2. Here is a quick survey. Please respond in the comment section!! Thank you!

a. How much time do you think the average pastor spends, in an average day, alone in his prayer closet (isolated and undistracted time alone with God in prayer)?

b. How much time do you think YOUR pastor spends, on average each day, alone in his prayer closet (isolated and undistracted time alone with God in prayer)?

Take a deep breath

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

Take a deep breath, hold it as long as you can. Hold it, hold it... ok. now let it go. This little exercise demonstrates the brevity of our lives in comparison to eternity. Here today, gone tomorrow. Yep, game is over... Fact is for most of us will pass from this life onto the next one with about as much fanfare as when we were brought into this world. A few people's lives will be drastically changed, for others we will be occasionally missed, but for the majority of the billions of other people on this planet, they will not even have realized we even existed.

Life is short. Furthermore, none of us knows for sure when our life will expire. Short of the parousia (a fancy word referring to the second coming of Jesus Christ), NONE of us have a guarantee of tomorrow. All of us could be just one step away from death. A few news articles over the last few weeks:

A 16 year old champion basketball player, on a team with an undefeated record, in OT makes the scoring shot to win right at the buzzer. Unfortunately, his life was cut short that same day because of an enlarged heart. A 29 year old local woman. She was the 2011 marathon winner in the women's division at the PF Chang Rock and Roll marathon here in Phoenix, in the prime of her career, a hopeful for the 2012 Olympics. While bicycle training near Maricopa she was struck by a vehicle and killed.

Maybe because I lost my dad when I was not yet 6, and my mother to a tragic murder-suicide 20 years later, I consider my life today today, what I do and say, as preparation for eternity. This is what compels me to share the good news of Jesus Christ and to encourage all believers, all followers of Jesus, to not put too much stock into this world..life is short.. as precious as life is it could end at any moment for any of us..... think about it..will you?? Take a deep breath and hold it as long as you can...

Revival or comfortableness?

2011-02-20T06:06:00.000-08:00

Today begins our revival meetings. It has been my prayer for sometime that these meetings are just not another set of revival meetings. We come, we listen, we go home. Nothing changes.
In fact, I believe change has already happened. Because I know people of prayer in our church have been praying, and prayer changes the heart of people.
Because I already have a keen sense of what change needs to take place.
We all get comfortable in our Christianity. Like a comfortable, old pair of blue jeans, we get used to things and it therefore becomes status quo. You know, we like the way things are and we don't want change.
Problem with this attitude (and I am not exempt) is that where there is stagnation, there is no growth.
As I read through the book of Acts, I do not see a church that gets comfortable or satisfied for very long. God doesn't allow it. Instead, I see a church which has a mandate from Jesus himself to make disciples.
And they act upon that mandate.

So, given these next several days, I believe revival has started. At least as a pastor I understand now where the church of Jesus Christ needs to go and I am not afraid to lead the church to that place. Let our hearts break until we feel the Spirit of the Living God compelling us to become disciple makers.

The question is, "Who will join me?"

Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every circumstance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. Hebrews 12:1

What does a Big Mac look like?

2011-01-31T10:36:00.000-08:00

You know, you see the billboards, the TV commercials, and the menu. You see this beautiful looking, perfectly constructed, mouth-watering picture of a McDonald's Big Mac.

Problem is when you go ahead and order the hamburger, it never looks quite as appealing as the picture you envisioned based upon the advertisements.

Likewise, when I look in the book of Acts, the history of the early church, I wonder how much different the church is today when compared to those followers of Jesus in the early church.

So much in fact that I am starting a new sermon series based on going through the book of Acts this next Sunday, February 6th, to help answer the question, "What is the church of the 21st century supposed to look like anyway?"

I really do want to find out the answer as the church I pastor, First Southern Baptist Church of Paradise Valley, moves out into the year 2011. If you live close enough, I hope you can join me in this adventure!

2011-01-13T21:51:00.001-08:00

If you are reading this, it is most provable your pastor prayed for you today that you continue growing in the grace, knowledge, and wisdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. That in all you do tomorrow, you will live to the highest glory of God. That our Lord will confirm, strenthen, and establish you through the riches of His son Jesus Christ. Amen
Your pastor.

Simple Obedience

2011-01-10T09:18:00.000-08:00

If obedience were so simple, why is it I still struggle? Could it be that my ego gets in the way of just saying, "Yes Lord!"

Simple obedience. Hmmm it is as Jesus said, those who want to follow him must take up their cross... stinging words because I want to be THE one in control. In control of my life, my thoughts, & actions. But the cross involves yielding up those things most precious to my sinful heart.

Simple obedience. I don't even need a high school education to understand these words. I need to learn to exchange my attitude and exchange my thoughts and feelings, as comfortable as I am in my own skin, and take on the way of Jesus. To embrace his teachings, his Lordship in my life.

And what I learn, when I practice simple obedience, is that nothing else really matters except bringing myself to the place where I simply read the Word of God, and unequivocally, without compromise, I simply obey. period.

This is my prayer for today.
Micah 6:6, Proverbs 18:12

You really should have been there.

2010-12-19T21:36:00.000-08:00

Tonight, at our church's staff appreciation get together after evening services, well I felt appreciated.
However, more importantly, I felt a sense of the Lord's spirit in a church family setting. People spoke from their hearts. (I spoke from my heart and wanted to say much more to the church, lay leaders, and fellow staff members. I don't regret much, but I do regret not speaking more passionately about my feelings to everyone).

It reminds me how the church is suppose to be. People of all walks, colors, and backgrounds of life, coming together for the purpose of glorifying the Lord Jesus Christ. Tonight, I saw the church in action.

I learned something tonight as a pastor. I learned the importance of community in the body of Christ. We are not perfect, yet we love one another. We are here to support, encourage, lift up, and sometimes even to admonish fellow brothers and sister in Christ.

I don't say this often, but if you are a member of FSBCPV, and you were physically able, but choose not to attend, well I believe you missed a blessing.

I hope as a pastor to kindle this same spirit often. Tonight, had an unbeliever been present, I believe she or he would have saw first hand God at work.

This is church in action, loving, sharing, and caring. We need more of this in our worship services, in our Bible study classes, and in home Bible study fellowships.

To God be the glory alone.

Do you know my Jesus?

2010-12-15T11:09:00.000-08:00

I just meet my next door neighbor. I actually thought the place was full of college kids. Fact is, he is the dad to one of them. I found out he travels quite a bit for his work, but now his travel will be limited to the Valley. He is a stocky man, who could, no doubt, whip me in a back alley brawl. As we are talking I am listening to the spirit of God. Christians can do that type of thing you know.

I am listening to him describe his life, his story. I wonder if he has a relationship with Jesus. I wonder what he has to look forward to after retirement, after his health goes south. I would love to tell him what I do for a living, that how Jesus is the most precious person he can know. I can tell him I am a pastor, how the Bible is the Word of God, that Jesus is the reason for the season; how my Jesus may be meet his needs, needs he doesn’t even realize.

Instead, I listen for the needs in his life. Because I remember, my job is not to call him to religion, but to a relationship with the Creator of the universe. And how I do that depends on my earning the right to gain his ear, his respect. It is called (I think) relationship evangelism. I want to influence him enough so that he may have an interest in knowing who my Jesus is. I want to be able to share with him who my Jesus is at his point of need.

That will take some work. Maybe I could invite him over to watch the game, or maybe bring him a loaf of Christmas bread. I just need to remember, if in fact he does not know Jesus, that means he doesn’t know about going to church at 930 am for Bible study or worship at 11 am or 6pm. It means I don’t want to call him to be religious but to know how Jesus can walk with him through this life and the next.

It feels like taffy

2010-12-11T11:03:00.000-08:00

For those in the pastorate there is a constant pull of ministering verses preaching. That is the pull of wanting to minister to the needs of people, in sickness, death, relationship challenges, and other stages of life on one side. On the other side is the constant need to proclaim God's word.

So the questions is, and Yes, and this is a recurring thought with me, "How well do I want to preach and convey bottomless and timeless biblical truths to the neglect of being available for folks when they need to sense God's presence through their pastor?"

I am called to preach, and to preach effectively enough in today's society so that people will clearly understand that God loves them. That through Jesus Christ, God really is the starting point. Rather, He is THE starting point of life. Without God, all of life will seem in disarray.

Yet, I am also called to minister to the body of Christ through that place called the church. Fact is both preaching and pastoring takes time. Because I am the way I am, it takes me time to move through the Scripture and narrow down the focus of the biblical message. To craft illustrations which will help illuminate Scripture. I suppose I could lock myself in my office and study 24/7.

However, I cannot expect to convey truth in a meaningful format without understanding people's hurts, fears, hopes, dreams, and beliefs. I need to live among people to be able to take that biblical truth and make it real enough for people to see the Bible holds the answer to life, their lives.

Maybe this is all part of being in the pastorate for only 17 months now. I am still learning. Which is a good thing. Another pastor friend, who has been in ministry for 50+ years (that is since before I was born), told me the other day that he is still learning. I am thankful to know I am in good company!

And in case you are wondering, yes, I enjoy both aspects.

Words. Rest.

2010-11-17T15:47:00.000-08:00

Two quick thoughts:

#1

I understand the ancient Hebrews thought a word once spoken lasts an eternity. Boy, don't I know that to be true. Things and comments I made far back as in July 2009 people actually remember! I am not flattered. Rather I am reminded of the grave responsibility of the role as "pastor."
If I ever misspeak or I am misheard, it involves A LOT of damage control. As my theology prof taught us in seminary, It is an awful (dreadful) thing to speak for God!!

#2
Jesus did it, we all need it! REST. To go away in a quiet place and just be alone. Got a small taste of it recently but I need more. Maybe there will be time in December to just go away, separate myself. Seems like a worthy goal. Up on the Rim again to be still and quiet.

:) have a good one! And remember, watch what you say, BEFORE you say it and don't forget to rest. This is where my mind is at today!!! (Hey, I am a preacher, I gota preach a little on here once in awhile!!)

What do the Cardinals and preaching have in common?

2010-10-31T17:57:00.000-07:00

Ok, so the Cardinals lost today. Good game though (I actually watched 1/2 of the game). This puts the cards at 3 and 4, just under 500. Next week they stand a better chance at Minnesota.

So, week after week during football session, unless it is a bye, the Cards are at it again. There are no redos.

After each game, I can imagine coach Ken Whisenhunt and his assistant coaches intently study what plays worked, and which ones didn't. With an eye on the injured list, a finger on the playback button to closely scrutinize video from the previous week, and an dog-eared playbook, the coaching staff gear up for another week of football.

Sounds a lot like preaching. Week after week I preach. There are no redos.

Except that in preaching the stakes are much higher than if the Cards win their division or go on to the Bowl. Eternal souls are often on the line. And speaking for God, to proclaim "Thus says the Lord," is an awesome thing. I want to be most effective as a preacher. Therefore, I have decided to tweak my preaching style a bit.

After some recent reflection, I think I have been focusing too much on the delivery of the message rather than on the content of the material. I have been too focused that I pronounce every word correctly, use the proper intonation, speed, pitch, and voice control (these are all important factors. But I think I have missed the opportunity and underestimated the importance of conveying biblical truth.

As such, I want to remove physical barriers, such as the pulpit, and rather than talking at people, I want to be able to talk to people. I don't want to appear to be better than thou, as a holy man who only comes off the mountain once week to speak holy words. So, I will try teaching from the floor level with the congregation.

Understanding the human mind, our society, and how people are most receptive, my goal is to teach biblical percepts so that people can understand these precepts and see how those truths affect daily life, at home, work, and at play. How the gospel of the Lord Jesus gives eternal and abundant life.

I am trusting this new mindset will help ignite the ministry effort of FSBCPV as we are faithful to our purpose of worshiping God and proclaiming truth. Pray for me as I prepare each week. Pray I pour over the text, use the best illustrations and that I capture the minds and hearts of my listeners. Pray for us all as we continue to glorify our Lord Jesus Christ.

What if I could read hearts and minds?

2010-10-26T08:12:00.000-07:00

I had an epiphany today. You know, one of those thoughts that hit you like "Wham!" right in the middle of the day like rush hour traffic.

It was the simple realization that preaching/teaching is a lot like sharing The Faith. Please allow me to explain.

Whenever I have opportunity to share my faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Master, it is most effective when I am sensitive to the other person's thoughts and feelings. Because I work in partnership with the Holy Spirit, I don't want to argue, fight, or otherwise battle a person trying to convince them of the gospel truth.

As a witness, my role is to live out my faith and verbally share as God might give me opportunity concerning the greatest news known to humanity. I am not responsible for the spiritual harvest; that is God's business. He alone is in the business of giving new birth and life where once there was none.

However, I am responsible for sharing and living out my faith as a living testimony to the power of God to change lives.

And so goes the epiphany. My responsibility as a preacher and teacher is first to live out and then proclaim truth. The liberating factor is I am not responsible if people accept the truth, only for faithfully proclaiming that truth in the most effective manner I am able.

Honestly, I admit, it can be downright discouraging for the doors of heaven to open and for God to give me some golden nugget of truth out of Scripture only for me to perceive people not following through with the principals I have taught at any given teaching point. Sometimes I wish I could read hearts and minds. (Well maybe not!)

But before I walk away in my own self-righteousness (and for you to throw rocks at me), I must confess there have been times I have preached truth and not fully embraced it myself. Yes, as a preacher, I have turned a deaf ear to my own teaching. How many times have I hung onto Peterson philosophy and failed to submit myself to Jesus' Lordship in my life? Too many.

I am not making excuses here; I am just sharing how much more I need spiritual wisdom and maturity in my own life.

I might also add, and you are probably already thinking, I can't see what is happening in people's hearts. God is at work in all of our hearts. I agree. Therefore, I must take satisfaction to faithfully proclaiming truth and to continue learning how to most effectively teach God's Word.

What does Lady Gaga and the Phoenix Cardinals have in common?

2010-10-12T16:40:00.001-07:00

As a pastor, it is my role to proclaim God's truth to society. In my case, that society is the people who live in the northern part of the Valley of the Sun, Phoenix, Arizona.

Therefore, I want to understand what influences this society, those people who live in North Phoenix. I want to be able to understand what people are thinking, dreaming, their needs, what are their aspirations, and what they are really feeling in the imaginations of their hearts.

As a local church is a reflection of the surrounding community, so are the people a reflection of the society in which those people live.

In other words, if I can understand how and why society affects people I can begin to understand what people think and feel.

So, now on to my question proposed in the title of this blog:

"What does Lady Gaga and the Phoenix Cardinals have in common?"

I have never wore a meat dress like Lady Gaga. (In fact, I have never worn a dress). Nor, am I a fan of the Lady. However, I have come across a few clips of her videos and she is quite talented and innovative.

In addition, I am not a fan of the Arizona Cardinals (by the way, is Arizona even a habitat for cardinals? Hmm. maybe the Cardinalis cardinalis are present in St. Louis). Although, I do understand the Phoenix Cardinals have a good enough record at present (3-2) to be leading their division. This despite Kurt Warner trading in his cleats for dancing shoes this season in the show Dancing with The Stars.

So, what do Lady Gaga, aka Stefani Germanotta, and the Arizona Cardinals have in common?

People that God has called me to proclaim truth, love, pray for, challenge, and lead are influenced by:

1. A woman who at age 24 is worth $40 million and has captured the imagination of millions.

2. A group of men who run up and down a football field with a picture of a bird (Cardianlis cardinalis) on their football helmets, occasional scoring, led by Ken Whisenhunt.

My point of all this?

Will I join the cultic movement of Lady Gaga? Highly doubtful. Am I anxious for her March 2011 concert at the US Airways Center? No.

Will I be glued to my couch proudly wearing my # 11 Jersey October, 24th at 1 PM to watch the Seahawks battle the Cards after the Card's bye this week? I don't plan on it. Even though I am satisfied to know the Seahawks will spank the Cards. (Hey, I graduated High School in WA).

However, in both cases I want to be a careful observer and stay informed enough to better understand and minister to the needs of people God brings across my path. Perhaps, the more I understand how and why numbers 1 and 2 above, and other things, have their influence, the better I can fulfill my role as a pastor/leader.

So, Lady Gaga and the Phoenix Cardinals have in common that to some degree they both help shape how society thinks, and I want to understand that how so I can better apply God's truth in our present day and age.

What do you need?

2010-10-02T20:05:00.000-07:00

Meeting peoples needs. As a pastor I want to meet the spiritual needs of the people God has given me to shepherd here in North Phoenix. Sounds easy enough, but more and more I realize the need to spend enough time with them to understand just what those needs are. I want to know the people behind the Sunday morning masks they wear. I don't want the fronts and pleasantries, I want sincerity (And I don't want people to think I don't occasional slip into a mask, they are comfortable and often convenient).

I am sure I can generalize a bit of their needs like love, acceptance, forgiveness, purpose, and career fulfillment, things we all want. But I want to know their fears, heartaches, their faith or lack there of, and not just the Sunday School answer but what keeps them up late at night in bed consumed in thought. What are the questions they want to ask but are afraid?

Once we (the church and I) become even more comfortable around one another, then I will be able to better understand and meet those needs.

Think of Mark Zuckerberg (if you don't know he started and owns Facebook). Yep, he found a way to help people connect, and in so doing he meet a need. I am not comparing myself to Mark Z., but what I am thinking is if I learn how to lead the church body to connect with one another and begin to build life long relationships, our church will blossom and begin to make a difference in N. Phoenix.

Sermonizing

2010-09-25T21:02:00.000-07:00

Ahhh sermonizing. The weekly ritual of a preacher. It has been said many people don't know how to prepare a sermon, but they sure know a good one when they hear it.

And so, each week I start with a different passage and begin to uncover the meaning according to the original historical context. I outline and find a logical train of thought whereby I can begin to frame the timeless truths of Scripture. Next are word studies, cross referencing, and more reading. But, it doesn't stop there. Next, I must contextualize those truths for our culture and then illustrate those truths so people can think through the truths, accepting and seeing those truths work out in their own personal context.

It is not enough to just say, " Jesus loves you!" "God is on the throne!"

People want to hear what God has to say to them, in their particular situations, how God and spirituality relates to their worlds.

I often wonder how close I do really come to the mark?

And, even greater on my mind is the awesome responsibility it is to stand in front of a bunch of people and proclaim to know God intimately, and then to open up the Bible and tell those people how they ought to live!

I suppose it would be real easy to gain an attitude of superiority or pride. But, Nahh, that isn't me (I Hope!), but I could see how it could happen to a guy.

My Goal

Having lived the truth I proclaim in my own life the previous week, if I could do just one thing each Sunday Morning. That is to passionately and effectively proclaim the truth of God's Word to those He brings within ear shot. Then I would be satisfied enough.

A Random Thought

2010-09-22T10:56:00.000-07:00

I wonder what would happen if everyone I meet in the next 24 to 48 hours I laid aside my own personal agenda and selfishness? If I breathed a silent prayer, something like, "Lord, I die to my own insecurities, lusts, and pride, my own sinfulness, and let me see life from this person's perspective. Allow me to give of myself and not seek selfish gain. Lord, allow you to minister through me to their needs." Amen

Use me today Father in spite of myself.

I like what Luther said about it ...

2010-09-14T18:38:00.000-07:00

Ministry is changing me. As people talk, I no longer just listen to the words but for the feelings behind the words. I listen for what people are not saying and for the emotions behind people's words.

And I am changing because I find myself caring deeply for people. I listen with my heart. In fact, I like to say I am learning how to better think with my heart but act in the Spirit. This means while I may be able to discern feelings, I can't be led just by feelings. I need to check those feelings with the Spirit of God to see if my intended actions or words will lead me to behave as I believe God would want me.

Maybe all this is really just empathy.

As people talk, I try to first understand then feel their experiences, hopes, fear, love, joys, and their concerns and needs.

People figure they can share with me because I am a pastor, their pastor. They talk and I listen. I hope they can sense I really do care. Can I care too much? I don't think so.

I like what Martin Luther, a religious reformer of days gone by, said about it (the character of the pastor) ... the vulnerability assumed in the willingness to "let oneself be plagued by [sic] the everybody."

This means I should accept an ever increasing capacity for empathic listening, becoming involved, and feeling the emotions.

Game on, I am ready!

Heart

2010-09-08T14:37:00.000-07:00

Heart.

I have heard it before and now it makes a little more sense.

Heart.

If I don't have enough heart I may grow up to be a good enough preacher, but I will never be an effective pastor.

People need a preacher. Yes, they need truth. But they also need someone to love them; a pastor. A person who will listen while silently choking back his own tears. A person who will care enough to say something while putting aside his own selfishness. A person who seeks out the best for others before he seeks out his own comfort or desires. A person who feels with his heart but whose will is controlled by the Spirit.

And maybe, just maybe, as my heart grows I will learn what it means to be a pastor.

I pray my heart grows bigger. I pray my own sinfulness and pride continue to die at the foot of the cross.

Funny thing is that unless you are a pastor, I don't think much of this will make much sense. I'm really not sure so please let me know! Email me at pastor@fsbcpv.org.

When I was a Child

2010-09-06T20:24:00.000-07:00

When I was a child, I understood nothing about being an adult.
Then I grew up.

When I was a civilian I understood nothing about being a Marine.
Then I graduated boot camp.

When I was a unbeliever, I understood nothing about being a follower of Jesus.
Then I started to follow Him.

And when I was a lay person in the church, I understood nothing about being a pastor.
Then I was ordained a pastor.

A pastor is someone who will come at a moment's notice to your side. No questions or second thoughts. He will pray for, encourage, and love you. When necessary he will offer gentle rebuke. He will think nothing of the time he takes for you as long as he knows you need him. It is part of his calling, his passion.

Sight unseen, never doubt that your pastor doesn't have one of you continuously on his heart and mind, that he is not whispering up prayer on your behalf to the throne of grace.

Can you hear me now?

2010-09-05T15:42:00.000-07:00

Preaching is challenging for two particular reasons. Foremost, it takes work to gives God's word full justice. I mean how is it possible to completely convey God's inexhaustible love, grace, and forgiveness? Or that our Lord is a jealous God? Many times I feel totally insufficient to bring across such powerful truths that I know will change lives. I am thankful illustrations help bring across the truths of Scripture.

Another challenge is after I have done all the praying, exegesis, isagogical (background) work, diagramming of sentences, looking up and developing illustrations, making transitions and then finally delivering a sermon, how do I now maintain my sanity when I believe great truths of Scripture have been expounded and presented yet nothing changes? In other words, many preachers do have times of depression (no, I am not depressed) because they proclaim such awesome truths and people sit by either idly not affected or at least not showing they believe what is being preached!

2010-09-01T21:43:00.000-07:00

So, we are gassing up at Exxon before starting our trip to Colorado this morning. As I am pumping the low grade petrol into my daughter's F150, up walks a women in her late 50s. Opening up a legal sized black portfolio, she asks us if we would like some reading material about unemployment in today's society. My eyes quickly scan the magazines. WATCH TOWER is printed in bold yellow letters.

I will spare the details of the 2 minute conversion. I just want to proclaim I am thankful I serve a God that I don't have to earn His love. Because He loves me for not what I do but because of who I have a relationship! I thank God for His love, mercy, and compassion through Jesus Christ.

If you want the details of the conversion, comment or Email me! :)

Have a blessed day!

This World will beat you down!

2010-08-30T08:26:00.000-07:00

Did you notice, it is true, this world will beat you down. I don't mean this necessarily in a spiritual way, although this is true. But what I am talking about is just the fact that this world, the disappointments, trials, failures, ups and downs, is really enough to chew the head off the meanest dude in town.

This is where just good ole friends will be almost life saving. A person who will embrace your pain, listen while reserving judgment, and still be your friend after the end of the conversation. I listen a lot to people, it is part of my ministry. No worries, I like listening.

But thank you to those of you who take the time to listen to me. Those who can be objective. Yes, I vent occasionally. Some of the people I share with I have known for quite some time, many years. Others of you I haven't known long at all in comparison, but you still listen. And you are becoming my friends.

Really, life is not meant to be lived alone, is it? Nah, I didn't think so! :)

Have a good day! And remember to listen with your heart! You'll earn a friend in the process.

I wonder

2010-08-24T00:58:00.000-07:00

I wonder what would happen if when I woke up in a few hours to begin my day that I completely surrendered every thought, emotion, every word spoken and step taken to the glory of God? No matter what happened I would completely submit and acknowledge God's sovereignty over my life.

What if I made God's priorities in life my priorities and then I just let go to watch what happens? There seems to be a lot of freedom in the idea. No prejudices, excuses, self-will, or rationalization. Just simple release.

If I really allowed God to get a hold of my heart and mind how would my life change? Would I think differently? Treat people differently? Act differently? Be more thankful and have more joy, contentment, struggle less with pride?

I want to know.

cell phone is off

2010-08-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

Not including driving time (currently a 38 mile drive one way), since Sunday, I have spent 53.5 hours on the job. Tomorrow is another full 8 hour day. I am not complaining.
I love what I do, it is a passion.

However I do pray my hours have not been filled with busy work; that real life change has taken place in the lives of people. I pray I might be a good steward of the time I do have.

Pray for your pastor today and everyday. :)

As for me, I am learning to take the advice from the man who gave my charge at my ordination:
My cell phone is turned off for the day.
Thank you Gary.

Uniqueness

2010-08-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Serving as a pastor is unique. It is not for the weak of heart, but the passionate, not for the greedy but those who are willing to sacrifice. Not for the sluggard but the diligent. Thick skinned yet tender hearted, speak the truth in love and learn how to please (only) God and love people.

In one day, I threw the first handful of dirt on the casket of a member of our church we laid to rest today. She joined the church before I turned age 3. This event marked the end of a life.

Later in the evening, I witnessed a man calling upon Jesus Christ as Lord and Master, trusting Jesus Christ for eternal life. The event marked the beginning of a new life.

And scattered throughout the entire day were many other opportunities to share, listen, and care. Now, nearing midnight I find myself tired, but it is a good tired. This is what ministry is all about, making differences in lives of the eternal souls of those who God places within the theater of my life. I wonder what joy, challenges, and triumphs tomorrow may bring?

Never doubt the power of encouragement

2010-08-17T18:11:00.000-07:00

Ok, never doubt the power of encouragement. Much of what I do as a pastor involves talking with people. I regularly enjoy encouraging others to press hard in following Jesus as Lord. In the past few days, there have been people God has put in my life who have encouraged me. In the past week, a woman who says to me, “Pastor, I will serve Jesus in anyway the church needs me.” Now that is encouragement!

A man I met last week that I know was not just a chance meeting. I quickly learn I can minister to him and maybe share what God has done in my life to help him. Now that is encouragement!

I am not asking for a pat on the back, but never ever doubt the power of simple words of encouragement to your pastor, or for that fact, anyone in your life who might make a difference. Notice the little things they are doing and express your appreciation and support. Learn how to look them straight in the eye and with all of the sincerity of heart you can muster tell them, "Thank you, I support you. I am praying for you." Simple, direct heartfelt words.

Your words will make a powerful difference in the life of that person and you will gain a lifelong friend.

View our website at fsbcpv.org.

Childhood playground

2010-08-13T20:25:00.001-07:00

Do you remember the childhood playground? The best contained several types of monkey bars, different sets of swings and slides, some short, some long, a line of tetherball poles, maybe a few seesaws, and various other types of structures elementary children could climb and conquer with their friends. But it seemed unless the playground didn't have at least one merry-go-round, a merry-go-round that seemed to spin faster than life itself, the playground wasn't complete. Do you remember the merry-go-round? I used to love these contraptions, and the faster my friends could spin me round and round, the better I enjoyed the ride.

Adults have their own form of a merry-go-round: the frantic pace of our lives. You know what I mean? We have so many responsibilities, work deadlines and schedules, plans, homework assignments, doctors and dentist appointments, the constant demand of housework and household chores, laundry and yard work, places to go and people to see, ministry to perform, teaching that needs done, children needing attention with homework and caring for, throw in worship services, leisure time and hobbies, parties, movies, television, and just hanging out with the gang, and well, life is just busy. Sometimes too busy. We begin to feel like we are back on the elementary school playground on the merry-go-round so busy but going nowhere fast.

So, we do our quiet time, because that is what Christians are supposed to do. We unplug. We shut off the phone, television, music, and email. However, if we are honest, many times we find our minds never quiet, never slowing down long enough to stop and listen. We can't because we have never learned how to shut off the constant stream of burdens and pace of life. We are almost on overload.

Which is why I like retreats. It provides the forum where we can stop and listen to God, getting off that merry-go-round long enough to letting Him speak to us.

Last week marked FSBCPV's 4th prayer retreat. Twenty-nine of us decided to get away from it all to rest and take a little time to be still. Eight of us went up on Thursday, while the reminder of folks arrived throughout the day on Friday. What I came to realize is how easy it is for me to open my Bible and fail to be still, listening for the voice of God in my heart.

Our focus at the retreat was to realize the importance of daily coming to God and quieting our hearts and minds, to be still, just listening to God speak to us through the Bible and prayer. To stop and listen, until we are satisfied to know that whatever we desire to accomplish in our lives we have visited and heard from our heavenly Father. That despite where we are physically, either in the mountains, at the beach, or back home in the busy metropolitan area of Phoenix, we can still practice the disciple of being still and recognizing God and His presence in our lives. To stop and be still.

Therefore, as Jesus told His disciples, "Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine," (John 15:4) learn how to quiet your heart and mind long enough so that you may listen.

I encourage you to learn how to unplug and stop daily, spending enough time listening to God through prayer and Bible study. It may mean turning off the TV or computer early and getting to bed, then getting up 15 minutes early just to spend time with your Lord.

For the next several days try reading over Psalm 46, listening for the voice of God, and making a few notes. After Psalm 46, try Psalm 119, taking it slowly section by section. I think you will find it time well spent.

And next year in 2011, when we announce our upcoming prayer retreat on August 4th through the 6th, make plans now to go up on Thursday. I believe you will not have any regrets.

View our website at fsbcpv.org

Then I shall not be ashamed, Psalm 119:1-8

2010-08-09T08:52:00.000-07:00

I remember my ethics training while serving as a US Marine recruiter in Tucson, Arizona. The instructor asked us to view our behavior as marine recruiters, as if it was something we would want our mothers to read in the newspapers. Although I chuckled at the suggestion, it did make sense. I wouldn't want to bring discredit to my family, the Marine Corps, and especially because I freely professed Jesus as Lord, I wouldn't want to give the bride of Christ a black eye because of my foolishness while representing the Marine Corps.

The Bible tells us in Genesis that sometime after Adam and Eve disobeyed the commandment of God not to eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, they heard God in the garden and so the couple hid themselves. When God asked Adam why he hid, Adam's reply was that he was naked. Obviously feeling exposed and understanding they had sinned, the couple's hearts must have been racing and their skins braking out in a cold sweat when they heard the LORD God in the cool of the evening. The couple was busted!

That is exactly what disobedience does, if we are sensitive to the holy things of God, the consequences of our sin leaves us feeling cheap, used, afraid, and ashamed.

The Psalmist in Psalm 119 instructs how we can live above such fear. The Psalmist proclaims he will not be ashamed looking at the commandments of God because he has lived in obedience. "Oh, that my ways may be established to keep Your statutes! Then I shall not be ashamed when I look upon all your commandments." (verse 5-6).

And this is my prayer today and everyday. That the church of Christ will live in obedience to the will of the Father, so that we will love his appearing and not be ashamed to have all of our thoughts, in the secret recesses of our minds, and our actions publicly exposed. So that we will not be ashamed when looking upon God's commandments and will for our lives.

Memorial Day

2010-07-09T15:07:00.000-07:00

Original Post Date: May 31, 2010

May 31st is more to American's than the gateway to summer vacations, longs days at the pool, or the constant, "Mom, we are bored!" echoed by the children. To Americans, the last day in May serves as Memorial Day.

Memorial Day was first widely observed on May 30, 1868, to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers. Since that time, we set aside this day to remember those of our own who have paid the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our freedom of life, speech, and worship. Imagine today what life would be like had it not been for the bravery and courage of men who fought brother against brother or cousin against cousin during the Civil War. Today US democracy at best would be a divided nation. Had it not been for the courage and determination of the thousands of boys who lost their lives on D-Day, 1944, think of how the face of both America and Europe would look today.

We are certainly grateful.

Yet, how much more grateful we are for the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ giving his life on the cross! He willingly paid with his life so that we might have the greatest liberation of all. Because of Jesus' faithfulness to obey the Father, we have a life free from the slavery and the oppression of sin. The Bible tells us that in Jesus we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace. We have free access to the Father, the guilt and shame of sin has been removed!

So, as you remember the sacrifice of those men and women who have died persevering our way of life, at the same time, Christian, do not fail to bow your knee and heart thanking God for giving us his Son so that we might have abundant and eternal life.

fsbcpv.org

When You Can't Handle It

2010-07-09T14:56:00.000-07:00

Twice this week I have heard folks, in expressing about their trials in life, share with me that God promises He will not give us more than we can handle. Now their reason for sharing this with me is of no small matter, both of these individuals have experienced their share of hardships.

In both instances, I immediately thought of Paul's letter to the church at Corinth where he wrote, "No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it." (1 Corinthians 10:13)

In context, Paul is encouraging his readers to look at the example of the Children of Israel who fell to idolatry. The covenant God would have rescued Israel from falling into sin, but instead the Israelites decided to disobey.

Today, most Christians use this verse to recognize that God carefully screens every trial and temptation through His loving attention and as a result, when we do come under the fire and pressure of decision-making, God is there. However, what I would like to interject is that while God does promise to sustain us, by this very fact He does give us more than we can bear! Otherwise, why would God need to sustain us in the first place?

It is at the point where we come under trial and temptations, when we lose a job, get a bad report from the doctor, we find ourselves in a troubled relationship, or are experiencing undue pressure at work, that we realize that we cannot handle the situation, only God can. This is when we call out to our Lord and He gives us the support, grace, and patience to trust and endure through the situation. Our trust is in Him.

Think of Paul, when he asked the Lord to remove a thorn in his flesh. Remember how the Lord replied? “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) I believe this is exactly what happens when circumstances in life such as unexpected death, illness, insecurities, and uncertainties, hit us head on at full speed. It is at these times we become acutely aware of our weaknesses and the fact that we can do nothing except call out to God. As we do, He then strengthens and undergirds us, carrying us through the circumstance. We are at this point totally depending upon God's strength.

I remember years ago swimming in a reservoir near the edge of a damn with my stepsisters. As we slowly walked out from the man-made shoreline, suddenly my legs shot out beneath me as my feet no longer touched the bottom and my head bobbled under the water. I remember, as all of this happened, calling out for help as my one stepsister, stronger and taller than me, quickly reached over and pulled me over so my feet could touch bottom again.

This is how it is with our Lord. When we find ourselves in circumstances that put our head under water, we cry out to our Lord. He is faithful, pulling us up and placing us on solid ground, the solid ground of His strength, allowing us to endure because our trust is in Him. What circumstances now are you experiencing that you are finding you are over your head? Are you trusting your Lord or are you trying to navigate through the uncharted waters of the circumstance on the fuel of your own strength?

And in times of temptation when we think we can pull through on our own determination and strong will to persevere, close to the edge of sin and disobedience, this is just the time we need to throw ourselves on the mercy of God and look for His grace for that way of escape. Are you trusting His grace to help you overcome temptation or do you try and bear down keeping your own hand steady against the rudder of your will?

fsbcpv.org