Dave's Area 51

Viruses

2012-02-10T10:21:00.003-05:00

I recently had the experience of having both my home and laptop computers infected with a computer virus. It was nasty, and cost me considerable money to clean them both up. The virus came at me from a trusted and what I thought were secure sites. So it goes with life on the internet.

It got me thinking - how effectively do we Christians "infect" our unchurched family and friends with the gospel? Are we close enough to someone for them to "catch" Jesus from us? Do we even try to infect others?

I had the privilege recently to lead my neighbors to Christ! What a joy it was to bring hope to those who needed Jesus.

Let me encourage you to pass along the "Jesus virus" to someone soon!

Doctrinal Purity

2012-01-26T10:14:00.007-05:00

I've recently been engaged in conversations with people who have expressed concerns about preserving doctrinal purity within their organizations (denominations as well as independent ministries). Some have even gone so far as to express concern about participating in community events with churches whose doctrines differ from their own. Many times the individuals in the local church are confused because they want to serve with believers from other congregations, but they are told by their leaders that they can't on the grounds of doctrinal concerns. This is not new. I've had dialogue for many years with those who take this position.

Before anyone says, "You have to stand for something or you don't stand for anything," let me state that I take my denomination's doctrinal distinctives very seriously. I am a Wesleyan because I believe that the Wesleyan-Arminian distinctives are both biblical and liberating. I do not look down on those who embrace a different theological background. I simply love the doctrine of my church.

That being said, I have to address the real issue: What's really important? When all is said and done, we who are Christ-followers will stand before the Lord Himself and be judged, not according to the organization or doctrine we embraced, but on what we did with Jesus. Did we receive the free gift of eternal life from the Savior? Or did we attempt to live a good life with the hopes that would be enough? I recently officiated a funeral for a man I barely knew and I have no idea of his stand with Christ. All I could do as I led the service was to share with his family and friends how they could know Jesus and why they needed to know Him. I didn't talk about my church; I talked about Jesus. I tried to offer them the hope of Jesus.

So what's my point? It's all about Jesus. The church at Corinth had a bunch of issues, rooted in their lack of understanding of salvation. In the first chapter of his letter to the believers there, Paul addressed their divisions: they were arguing over who it was they were following and who baptized who - I would call these doctrinal divisions within the Church. Paul's answer? "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." (1:18)

Let's not be divided over little things. All believers everywhere are one Church! I know the Wesleyans won't have a private corner in glory, and I'm sure your denomination or independent church won't either. Embrace your distinctives - they are what make you unique. But embrace other Christ-followers even more. Then the world will know real faith. Jesus said, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:34-35).

Feedback?

Another Birthday

2012-01-15T07:21:00.002-05:00

Yep. Turned 54 today! Nothing to be overly excited about. Or is it just me?

Age is something that I don't think about, except for those times when I go to do something and can't do it as quickly as I used to. My mind tells me I'm in my early 30's. My body? Not so much. But I am very fortunate to be as healthy as I am for my age. I know a lot of people who are in much worse shape. I'm blessed to only take one pill a day (Metformin, for all my fellow diabetes friends).

Let's see what this next year will bring!

Rivalry

2012-01-11T08:26:00.002-05:00

Last Sunday I began (notice I started - I didn't finish, yet!) a message on the Lord's Prayer in Luke 11:1-13. I broke the prayer down into three sections: an upward look, an outward look, and an inward look. In dealing with the outward look, I talked about what "your kingdom come" means for us today. I take the position that the Kingdom of God is here in the Church - the hearts and lives of His people. We are an expression of His Kingdom. We are to advance His Kingdom. (The following is taken from the message of January 8, 2012).

So what keeps us from advancing the Kingdom more effectively? I believe it is the fact that we allow many things to rival God's Kingdom. What kingdoms rival God’s? Thanks to the suggestion of my good friend Steve Forsyth, I began to look at the rivalry in light of the temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4:1-11. The temptations Jesus faced address kingdom rivalry in a succinct manner. Let me explain.

The first kingdom to concern ourselves with is self-wealth. The temptation to turn the stones to bread is simply greed / materialism. It’s a refusal to trust God to provide. This rivalry redirects our vision away from our dependence upon Him. That’s really the emphasis we see in 11:3 – “Give us each day our daily bread.” The emphasis on daily bread is on what is sufficient or necessary. In the OT (Exodus 16:4; Deut. 8:6), the Hebrews depended on the daily provision of manna as they wandered in the wilderness. In Jesus’ day, many of the workers were day laborers – they didn’t have permanent jobs. They had to depend on God to provide work on a daily basis (Matthew 20:1-5). We tend to depend upon the sweat of our brow (self-wealth) until we have our backs against the wall.

A second rivalry is self-importance. A friend of mine put it as self-lust. The temptation for Jesus to throw Himself off the temple and be rescued by a heavenly special forces unit was nothing more than Satan’s way of getting Jesus to be concerned more with image than about God’s will being done. Self-importance is polar opposite of humility. Pride and arrogance are the antithesis of a kingdom mentality. We are at great risk when we trust in our own wisdom and accomplishments. We are to have the mind of Christ (see Philippians 2:5-11).

The final rivalry is self-power. This is a control issue. Satan challenged Jesus to bow and worship him, with the promise of rule over the world (its kingdoms). It wasn’t Satan’s to give. But he dangled this enticingly before the Messiah with the mistaken notion that he could distract Him from His mission. We get distracted when it comes to seeking power for ourselves. We want to be in control; and we don’t want anyone to have control over us. It’s a spirit of lawlessness. We want things on our own terms. We get so caught up in the day-to-day and we don’t want any interruptions. It’s all about our goals, our dreams, and our destinies. Embracing this mindset rivals God’s invitation for us to yield power and control to Him so that He can use us for the sake of His Kingdom. Our purposes take priority over His.

Feedback?

Happy New Year!

2011-12-30T14:43:00.003-05:00

It's time to hang up that new calendar! My wife works hard on the kitchen calendar every year. She writes in every birthday (and age of the person), anniversary (and years of marriage), and any other special day that needs to be remembered. She's always reminding me that it's someone's anniversary or birthday. It's a good thing!

Many people are given to resolutions as the new year dawns. I would guess that a high percentage of those go unkept. Perhaps we are unrealistic in our self-appraisals. Maybe we have great intentions but no inner drive to accomplish that to which we commit.

I'm not going to make any resolutions this year. Oh, I have goals. There are some things I want to accomplish. There are changes I need to and want to make. I'm just going to dig down deep and go after those things, with the help of an accountability partner or two. Most importantly I am going to trust the Lord to help me, for apart from Him, I can do nothing (John 15:5).

Happy New Year!

Christmas Thoughts

2011-12-20T15:25:00.002-05:00

As I reflect on Christmas, I must share the following thoughts of gratitude:

I am thankful for my wife, Stevie, who works so hard at the hospital as well as at home.

I'm proud of Sarah, who along with her husband Adam and their son Micah, is making a great start in family life as well as her teaching career.

I'm proud of Jonathan, who has not only developed into a hard worker, but into an even better young man who has many interests.

And I'm proud of Bekah, who brings joy and laughter into any situation, and who strives to be the best she can be in life.

I'm blessed this Christmas!

Being Challenged

2011-11-30T07:55:00.002-05:00

I'm privileged to be in a cluster group of pastors in my district. We have been reading and studying some great research information in the areas of church leadership and congregational development. Our group happens to be facilitated by our district superintendent, who does a great job managing all of our personalities!

I share this with you because I find the experience to be uplifting and challenging. I love the synergy that comes from being in a room of like-minded leaders. The ideas flow and the atmosphere is very positive. But I also find myself being stretched and challenged. Most recently, our discussion led me to make several personal commitments in a key area of my ministry. I had become a bit lazy about a couple of things. The iron sharpened the iron. I'm regaining some focus. I am thankful for the challenge.

Who is challenging you? What iron-sharpening things are you purposefully involved in? Who is holding you accountable? Think it through. If you have that in your life, please share how it is working. If not, will you consider finding that group of like-minded people and stretch in your faith walk? Be encouraged. It really does help.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T10:48:00.002-05:00

On Flu Shots and the Flu

2011-11-21T08:55:00.003-05:00

I know. You can't get the flu from a flu shot. If you get the flu, it's from a different strain than what you were inoculated for, or you get a milder version of what you would have if you hadn't gotten the shot. I received a flu shot from my doctor a week and a half ago. I had a pretty good case of the flu this weekend, even missing church. Ok, I probably didn't get the flu from the shot - the flu bug was going through our day care all week. Kids and staff alike were sick. I guess I was not exempt. I am grateful to my wife for her excellent care and my daughter Bekah who called out "quarantine" if I even tried to walk out of the bedroom!

Over the years I've known Christians who believe that once they receive Jesus (their spiritual flu shot) they are supposed to be immune from the problems of life. Of course, seasoned spiritual veterans know this isn't the case. Life happens. Problems come. Jesus even said we would have trouble in this life (John 16:33). But in that same verse He told us to take heart because He has overcome the world! That means we have One who speaks to the Father on our behalf (1 John 2:1) and we have the presence of the Holy Spirit to empower and guide us through life (Read the Olivet Discourse found in John 14-16). How we respond to the troubles of life is indicative of our trust factor.

I'm no longer under quarantine. I'm once again "exposed" to the bugs of life. It sure beats hiding under the covers! And who knows - I might even get a flu shot again next year!

Exciting Days at EWC

2011-10-30T18:30:00.002-04:00

These are exciting days at Edgerton Wesleyan Church. Our worship attendance has grown to the point where we are pushing up against the 80% capacity barrier of our sanctuary. Sunday School is near capacity. There are some Sundays when people have to park in the yard because the parking lot is full. Exciting!

Today I shared with the church the option of going to two worship services. We are currently exploring two different Sunday morning formats as well as a Saturday night service. The congregation received the information very well today. The church board and I have been working on this for a few months, and a focus group we brought in has endorsed the overall concept. Now we have to get a feel for which format would best serve this congregation / community.

Good days!

Strays

2011-10-26T14:01:00.003-04:00

My oldest daughter recently took in a "temporary" dog with the intention of trying to find a home for it. Unfortunately for her, the dog is making himself at home and endearing himself to my grandson, my son-in-law, and the family dog. I think I know how this is going to end...

Some of the "strays" that enter our lives (good or bad):
- thoughts that lead us away from God's will in our lives
- people in need who are really divine appointments
- challenges to our thinking about orthodox faith
- challenging people who say they want our help but really don't
- opportunities to grow

Some strays are good. Some, not so much. What are some strays that come to your mind?

Random Thoughts

2011-10-24T13:56:00.003-04:00

I saw a great t-shirt the other day: "Guns don't kill people. Dads with pretty daughters do." If anyone needs a Christmas gift idea, I take a large.

People who criticize you for doing something you thought was nice or for their benefit seldom if ever notice when you correct your "error."

The virtue of confidentiality is nearly extinct.

Hard work produces results, which in turn require more hard work. This is a good thing.

It's easier to plant a garden in the spring than it is to clean up the area in the fall.

People don't do what is expected. They do what is inspected.

Organization is not over-rated. It's understated.

A Sunday school teacher asked his class if they thought Noah did a lot of fishing when he was on the Ark. Little Johnny replied, "How could he with just two worms?"

Funny Guy

2011-10-17T08:24:00.003-04:00

We spent time on Skype last night with Sarah, Adam, and our amazing grandson, Micah. He is a riot! He is finally at a point where he knows who we are on Skype and engages with us in a form of conversation that, at this point, only he really knows where it is going. Even so, he is entertaining! Micah is growing up so fast. He has become the family farmer, feeding the chickens every day and making sure his dog, Sable, is being good. He certainly enjoys every waking moment of every day!

Friends

2011-10-10T08:06:00.002-04:00

It's a great thing to have friends! Our dear friends, Paul & Gale Imboden, are headed off for Arizona in a few days. They will be living out of their motor home and working in a campground during the winter. Gale has played piano for our church for many years, and Paul is an ordained minister in the Church of the Nazarene. While not formally appointed, they are missionaries in a camping ministry. We celebrated with them at church yesterday, and we pray for their safe travel as they head out across the country. We love you guys! Check out their blog at www.travelerpaulgale.blogspot.com.

On Dying Churches

2011-10-02T14:16:00.002-04:00

As a part of my responsibility as an assistant to the district superintendent, I attended the final service of a church in our district today. As I oversaw their final time meeting as a congregation, I was struck by a few thoughts.

It's a sad day when a church has to close. This church didn't have the resources to carry on. The pastor realized this and led the church into the decision to shut its doors. Efforts to reach into the community had failed for many years (20+). The church no longer had a positive image in the neighborhood.

It's a hard day for the pastor. Having had to close a church under my watch, I know how emotionally and spiritually debilitating it is to say "It's over." You battle questions as to whether or not you did everything you could to save the church. You battle depression as the enemy loves to make you think you are a failure. You battle a sense of abandonment as your peers keep their distance for a variety of reasons, none of which is justifiable.

It's a discouraging day for a community, though it probably doesn't realize the impact of a closed church. A source of light is gone. Even if the church has been in decline for years, there was always that chance that someone could be helped by that ministry.

Though those thoughts are negative, there is one positive. The Kingdom goes on! The gospel will still be shared by those true believers who move on and join other churches. Jesus said, "I will build my church and all the powers of hell will not conquer it." (Matthew 16:18, NLT). When I think of some of the people from my own church closer several years ago, I thank God that they are still serving Him all over the U.S. - Dave & Julie in Georgia, Patrick & Kathy in Arizona, Scott & Amy in Indiana, etc. God is still on the throne and will use those who are fully committed to Him!

Yes, it's a sad day when a church closes its doors, but believers will always have an impact, for WE are His Church!

Hedgehog Concept

2011-09-28T10:46:00.002-04:00

In studying for my message in a couple of weeks, I ran across something that I've read before and really appreciate. In Jim Collins' business book, Good to Great, he addresses something called the Hedgehog Concept. He relates an essay by Isaiah Berlin where Berlin proposes that people are in one of two categories: they are either foxes or hedgehogs. Foxes are diffused, scattered and moving on many levels, whereas hedgehogs simplify the complex world into a single concept that reduces all challenges to a simple idea. They refuse to be anything but hedgehogs! They have "a piercing insight that allows them to see through complexity and discern underlying patterns. Hedgehogs see what is essential, and ignore the rest." (page 91)

Let me encourage you to be a hedgehog! As Keith Drury used to teach in Strategetics, "The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing." What is our main thing? Win souls! We are to fulfill the Great Commission in the spirit of the Great Commandment. Many people are trying to change and improve our world through secular theories. They are looking to the political world to "save them." Christians have the answer to change and improvement - Jesus! Let's not get sidetracked in doing good. Let us do the "goodest" we can by sharing the hope of Jesus with others. He alone is our hope and salvation.

Thoughts on Longevity

2011-09-14T07:37:00.005-04:00

In my posting on Pastoral Longevity, I asked the question about what are some factors that contribute to longer pastoral tenures. I would still like to hear from anyone reading this what you think in this matter.

I believe one key to longevity is the issue of release. We put a lot of emphasis on the initial call to a congregation in The Wesleyan Church. I believe it is very important to match a pastor and a church. In our system, the district superintendent may be able to give assistance in this area, it is ultimately the pastor's responsibility to assess a church's culture and personality to see if there is a match.

But once the decision has been made to go to a church, a pastor needs to be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit to know when it is the right time to leave. Just because we face some resistance does not mean it's time to go. Over the years I've watched some pastors leave churches well before they should have simply because they didn't want to deal with conflict. (At this point, I would have to recommend Dr. Wayne Schmidt's teaching on "Change and Conflict Management" I enjoyed in my masters program!)

I'll relate a personal story here. I came to the Edgerton Church after having closed a church plant that my family and I had worked to establish for five years. I was beat up and faced a lot of rejection from my district "tribe." I figured that I would stay in Edgerton for a couple of years, using the time to heal while helping the congregation find a new direction. Then I would head off for whatever ministry God had in store next. That was nine years ago! My district superintendent applauds me for hanging in there and building things up. But I will tell you what I have told him: I am here because God hasn't released me.

Let me ask my pastor friends this: How do you know when you are released? Have you ever left a church and regretted the move, realizing some time after the fact that you should have stayed? And have you stayed longer than you should have (for whatever reasons) and have regrets?

Feeding the Lions

2011-09-12T10:19:00.002-04:00

"If you're thrown to the lions, of course you hope you'll be there in the morning to celebrate. But if not, you'll be in the presence of God, and you will have provided a small kindness to a few hungry lions." -Erwin McManus

OK, I'll admit that I've never really thought about conflict in this way before. I've been attacked by "lions" before. I bet you have, too. My competitive nature causes me to want to win at every turn. I don't like to be wrong, and I admit I love it when I've been vindicated. When an attack comes I want to celebrate in the morning.

I'm not sure I like feeding lions, but I think I get what Erwin McManus was referring to his comment. Is it more important to win the battle with the lions or to win the battle by being more like Christ? I know the answer to that question, as do you. But living in the reality of it is tough. I used to bristle at John Maxwell's axiom, "I don't have to survive." I hate to admit it, but the older I get, the more I buy in to it.

When the lions come, so be it. But just a word...I bet I don't taste that good anyway!

Pastoral Longevity

2011-09-08T08:35:00.002-04:00

I was talking with a pastor friend yesterday when the subject of how long I've been at the Edgerton Church came up. My association with this church has been nine years - a little over eight as the full-time pastor. My friend commented that he had read my blog and was encouraged by it. He has served for a little more than two years in an established, older church. We talked about the difficulty a pastor faces in trying to change the culture of a declining or dying church. In my previous post I listed seven things that I believe have contributed to our turn around in Edgerton.

However, one thing I left off the list was longevity. I think a lot of pastors get frustrated when they go to a church and can't implement their vision immediately. They work at a feverish pace for a year or two and then move on to what they hope will be a more receptive field. I know - I've done it!

The reality is that it takes time to change church culture. The attitude of many lay persons in the church is, "Pastors come and go." It's true. Take a look at the statistics. But the churches that experience growth, and the declining churches that experience renewal, have one thing in common - pastors who serve for a number of years in the same place.

So what's it take to hang in there for the long haul? I have some ideas, but what do you think?

A Growing Time

2011-08-30T08:05:00.003-04:00

Edgerton Wesleyan Church is an interesting case study. When I came to the church to simply "fill in" a few Sundays here and there in the fall of 2002, the worship attendance was in the mid-50's. The church had been in decline for a number of years. A rural church located near declining communities, there wasn't a lot of hope for growth. I filled in for a couple of months and then signed on as the interim pastor through the spring of 2003. Then God made it clear He wanted my family and I to stay. When I met with the church board to express my concerns about whether or not they'd be willing to make the changes necessary to their survival, one board member summed it up: "If we don't change, we'll be closed in five years." What an exciting prospect!

Our worship attendance is regularly over 100 these days, and in the month of August we averaged 128. We've set two all-time attendance records in the church's history this year: Easter @ 181, and Vacation Bible School program @ 168.

What has been the secret? I'll simply list what I think have been the key ingredients and if you are interested in commenting, we can flesh them out. Here goes:

1. A commitment to fulfilling the Great Commission in the spirit of the Great Commandment.

2. A missional approach to ministry.

3. A willingness to shut things down that don't work and start new.

4. Standing firm in the face of opposition to #3.

5. Moving outside our comfort zone.

6. Getting ministry into the hands of the people instead of having the pastor do it all.

7. Relationship-building.

These are some of our key moves. God has been faithful as we've trusted Him to lead us each step of the way.

Pure Joy

2011-08-23T15:59:00.003-04:00

I think the title and the picture say it all. Oh that we could all get back to this!

The Rod and The Staff

2011-07-30T10:45:00.003-04:00

As we continue our look at Psalm 23, we can see in verse 4 the phrase, "your rod and your staff, they comfort me." It's interesting to note that the rod and the staff are the same Hebrew word, meaning that it is one instrument that has two distinct purposes.

First, the rod. It's an instrument of power, punishment and protection. In Exodus 3 & 4 we see it as the source of Moses' strength as well as disobedience. As an instrument of protection, a shepherd would beat the ground and bushes with the rod to scare off any predators that might be lurking nearby. That's why the young shepherd David had no fear of bears or lions - he had a rod. And in Hebrews 12:7-12, we see the that the Lord disciplines those He loves. The Word is a rod of discipline (2 Timothy 3:16).

The staff, on the other hand, is an instrument of peace. The curved end, or the crook, was used to lift up lambs and place them beside their mothers. It was also an extension of the shepherd's arm and used to guide the sheep. As such, the staff represents the role of the Holy Spirit who is the One who guides us into truth, walking beside us as our the paraclete (John 14:25-27; 15:26-27; 16:13-15).

We need not fear the rod or the staff. They comfort us. Whether it is in correction or guidance, the Holy Spirit is there to help us know and follow Jesus better. The better we know Jesus, the better we know the Father. Celebrate the rod and the staff and for the comfort brought to bear in our lives.

Passing Away

2011-07-27T18:07:00.002-04:00

My father, Harry Dignal, passed away today, July 27, 2011, at approximately 3:15 PM. Dad was born December 13, 1921 in Stoneboro, PA. He finished the 11th grade and then left home. He worked in a grocery store and for the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) until joining the Army in 1942. He married my mother, Juanita Styers, before going to Japan. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1945. Dad retired from General Motors, having worked for 44 years at the Packard Electric Wiring Harness Plant in Warren, OH. He lived the last three years at the Whitecliff Nursing Home in Greenville, PA. He was 89 years old.

Dad was a soft-spoken man. He seldom raised his voice. He was admired and loved by all the staff at the nursing home. Most importantly, he was loved by all of us. We will miss him greatly. Thanks, Dad, for always being there! We love you.

Dealing with Death

2011-07-25T21:00:00.002-04:00

We returned home from vacation Thursday night with the news that my father had a stroke and is dying. I've been in PA since Friday night to sit with Dad. I'm thankful for God's presence and strength during this time. I'm asking all to pray for Dad to pass quickly and not suffer.

Long-time Friends

2011-07-11T13:38:00.002-04:00

Sarah and Adam hosted a reception for us at their beautiful home in Jamul, CA, so that friends from our days here could come for a cookout and visit. It was a great time seeing such good friends! We appreciate Sarah and Adam's gift of hospitality, and we appreciate our friends coming out to see us! The fellowship was wonderful as we reconnected in person with many we have not been able to see for years.

Stevie, Bekah and I also spent the morning in Bonita where we ministered for nine years. We enjoyed the worship and Pastor Mark's message. Again, we were able to see a lot of dear friends there, too.

Yesterday was a great example of how God's love unites and never fades away. We are blessed to have so many great friends across the country from our years of ministry. We are grateful for the Body of Christ and the loving relationships that have endured the years. Thank you, friends!

Vacation in Paradise

2011-07-07T09:54:00.002-04:00

We are blessed to have the wonderful opportunity to spend two weeks in the San Diego area for vacation this year! We are staying with our daughter Sarah, her husband Adam, and our grandson, Micah in Jamul, a beautiful town 30 minutes outside of the city. It's hot up here in the mountains, but it is a dry heat, unlike the heat of an Indiana summer.

Yesterday was our first full day here, and it was great! Micah has grown so much in the last year. It's hard to believe how big he is. He has a playful heart and a sensitive spirit. Sarah and Adam are great parents - I'm very proud of them! I've enjoyed being "Papa Dave" and playing with Micah.

Well, I won't bore readers with details, other than the fact that yes, I did get a bit of a sunburn yesterday, laying by the pool, vegging out on our first day. But today is a new day, no pain, and looking forward to see friends and family!

Progress is Made in the Valley

2011-07-04T09:10:00.005-04:00

When I was the Executive Pastor in Bonita, CA, I worked with an awesome Senior Pastor, Pastor Jimmy Johnson. Pastor Jimmy has since gone to be with the Lord, but I will never forget his infectious laugh and his great communication skills. And when I say I worked with Pastor Jimmy rather than for him, it's because he treated me as an equal partner.

Pastor Jimmy coined a phrase we used at the Bonita church: "Progress is made in the valley." It was a catchy way of saying things were happening at Bonita! But it was also a great way of telling people that it's in the valleys of life that real progress is made.

In Psalm 23:4, the Psalmist wrote of the "valley of the shadow of death." Sometimes we equate this passage with a funeral and the death of a loved one, but there is so much more we can gather from it. Many Christians want to live on mountain tops, but the real spiritual development in our lives takes place in the valleys of this life, places where danger lurks. But the Psalmist also reminds us that even though danger may exist in the valley, "I will fear no evil, for You are with me."

So what's so special about the valley? First, the only way to get to the next mountain top is to go through the valley. Valleys serve as bridges to the next mountain. If you find yourself on the mountain top, enjoy the view, but be reminded that the Lord is getting you ready for the next "something" in your life.

Second, the shortest way to the next mountain is through the valley. It's really the path of least resistance. To go any other way means that the Lord is not there with you. He is with you in the valley.

Third, the valley is a place of more and better food and water. It may be a difficult place, but it is where you learn and grow.

Finally, people in the valleys of this life need to see real people - people like you and me - who have problems just like they do. We are all common clay pots (2 Corinthians 4:7-18). The heroes of the faith went through the valley (Hebrews 11). Jesus went through the valley on His way to the cross, as well as on the cross itself ("My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?")

So remember: the next time you find yourself in the valley, the Lord is with you, and He is growing you. Progress really is made in the valley!

An Invitation to God

2011-06-26T15:13:00.003-04:00

My friend Dr. Steve Forsyth, senior pastor at El Cajon Wesleyan Church in California, preached this morning on the subject of prayer. We were emailing back and forth encouraging each other about our preaching. He made this statement about his message: "Prayer invites God to get involved. It reminds us that our spiritual growth is not a self-help based practice. God's involvement is necessary."

Prayer invites God to get involved. That's a powerful statement! I think many Christians mistakenly assume that God is involved in every arena of their lives. But is that really the case? If we are not surrendered in a particular area, is God really involved? He no doubt wants to be, but is He able to be involved without our invitation? I know some of my Calvinist or Reformed Theology friends would say yes. But I again ask: Is God involved in every area of a life that is not fully yielded to Him?

Romans 12:1-2 says, "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this work, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. They you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will." It seems to me that there is a direct correlation between our offering and His transforming. Our offering invites God to be involved.

What about Matthew 16:19? "I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." I've always struggled a bit with the total implication of this passage, but it seems to me, in the broader context, that the building of Jesus' church (Matthew 16:18) depends a bit on our inviting Him to do just that! He will build a prevailing church; of that I have no doubt. But just what does He mean about binding and loosing? Does this imply that we need to invite Him to participate? And by participate, I'm really saying "lead."

Please hear me out. I don't mean to say that God can't work if we don't invite Him to do so. At the same time, God's Word indicates that our disobedience hinders God's actions, and our invitation to Him to act allows for a greater flow of the Holy Spirit to move. God's involvement is absolutely necessary for there to be victory in this world. But do we limit Him by our failure to invite Him to participate?

I don't know about you, but I will assume nothing when it comes to God's involvement. I need and want it. How about you?

Soul Restoration

2011-06-15T14:21:00.002-04:00

"He restores my soul." That short phrase in Psalm 23:3 is powerful. What does it mean to have our soul restored? Is the psalmist speaking of sinners who need to be restored to a right relationship with God, or is he referring to Christians who sin and need to return to a proper state? Could it be a little of both?

When it comes to having our souls restored, there is a great need for repentance. This is necessary for salvation and involves a purposeful decision and an act of our will. We have to willingly turn from sin and turn to Jesus if we desire to be forgiven of our sin (see John 1:12; Acts 3:19; Acts 17:30). It involves a change of our heart, mind, direction and goals. And it's more than a one-time act. It's an attitude for a lifetime.

Restitution is also necessary to experience soul restoration. It's a "facing what I've done wrong" plus a desire to make things right. It's a desire to follow Jesus all the way and influences our relationships. In Luke 19, the tax-collector Zaccheus acknowledged that he defrauded his fellow countrymen in his work for the Roman government. But he went further. He repaid everyone four times over what he had stolen from them. That's making things right!

Then there is restoration. To restore means to repair; to make usable; to make complete; to make better than before. This refers to our relationships within the Body of Christ, His Church. We are to be reconciled to those with whom we are at odds. Jesus' teaching on the subject makes it clear that we are not to wait for others to come to us and apologize. We are to take the initiative and seek healing in the relationship. For instructions on how we are to do this, see Matthew 5:23-24, 18:15-18, and Galatians 6:1-3. When true restoration takes place, that which was once broken is made stronger.

Soul restoration is more than a make-over. It's a total change in every area of our lives. It's something to think about.

Quiet Waters

2011-06-11T19:36:00.003-04:00

As we continue our look at Psalm 23, I want us to consider the phrase in 23:2, "He leads me beside quiet waters." Some translations say "still waters" or even "peaceful streams." Water was not always plentiful in Palestine during the days of David. The shepherd had to lead the sheep to find water to drink.

In my studies I ran across the fact that splashing or rushing water scares sheep. They need quiet water - still water - to drink from. In our turbulent world, we all too often do not take the time to drink from the living water provided by our Shepherd. We are easily frazzled, given to racing away from quiet time with God rather than running to Him for our peace.

The shepherd had to work hard to get the sheep to the quiet waters. He had to keep an eye out for the enemies of the flock that would hide near watering holes, waiting for that single sheep to stray just far enough from the rest of the flock to be vulnerable. And isn't that when the attacks come? When we are most vulnerable? When we are alone, or think we are?

While the shepherd was responsible to guide the sheep to the watering hole, it was the responsibility of the sheep to follow the shepherd. Sheep have to get up and eat in order to get all the shepherd wants them to have. We don't really like that kind of responsibility. We would rather have room service, or better yet, to be spoon-fed.

If we want the quiet waters to flow in our lives, we must make time to be with the Shepherd. We must recognize that our spiritual development is not the result of instant gratification. We have to figure out the difference between living it up and really living. One may taste better, but only one satisfies.

Laying Down in Green Pastures

2011-06-06T13:32:00.003-04:00

Our continuing study of Psalm 23 leads us to the second verse: "He makes me lie down in green pastures." The NLT substitutes the word "lets" for makes. Green pastures are cool and relaxing (Can't you picture laying on your back on the grass when you were a kid growing up? Wasn't it a relaxing place to be?) The idea here is that our Shepherd gives us the opportunity to rest. We were designed to rest. We need rest. And when we are where we are supposed to be (green pastures) there are fewer issues that keep us from resting.

But what keeps us from laying down in those green pastures? There are several things that come to mind. First, fear keeps you from laying down. When you are alone you are vulnerable. You have to stay in community (in the sheep-fold). Then you can hear the voice of the Shepherd and know His Presence.

Friction - a competitive attitude - will keep you from laying down. Sheep tend to pick on weaker members of their flock. There can be a pecking order that is used to keep the sheep in line. But God has said that the weaker members of His flock are necessary (1 Corinthians 12:21-26). Our Shepherd often puts the weaker in authority to destroy the pecking order and reduce our friction.

Flies, those pests that bug the sheep, keep you from laying down. When we let little things bug us - eat at us - we are unable to rest. You need to allow the Shepherd to use the oil of His Spirit rid you of the little things that keep you from laying down.

Finally, well-fed sheep are able to lie down. A lack of food will keep you from being in the green pastures. Isn't that ironic? There is good food all around but you fail to eat. We have so many resources at our fingertips yet we are some of the most undernourished believers on the globe.

The Shepherd of our souls wants us to rest in His green meadows. He only makes you lie down when you love Him and listen to Him. Are you experiencing green pastures?

The Lord is My Shepherd

2011-06-02T08:16:00.004-04:00

We began a study of Psalm 23 last night in an H3 Bible study that I lead. There were a number of great insights that we pulled from the first two verses. Let me focus for just a bit on Psalm 23:1.

First, we note that the psalmist referred to the Lord as a shepherd. The Scriptures do not often refer to God in this way (see Genesis 48:15; 49:24; Jeremiah 31:10). The term was commonly used for rulers in the ancient Near East. The rarity of its use in reference to God is significant and should catch our eye.

Why? A shepherd was indispensable to the flock. The sheep saw him as a constant companion, a guide, a provider, a physician, and a defender. In the same way, the Lord is to be all of those things to us. And He is, if we know Him as the psalmist did: "the Lord is my shepherd." Note the word "my." It denotes an intimate relationship between the shepherd and the sheep. It's a reflection of the relationship David had with Yahweh, Israel's covenant God. It's the type of relationship God wants to have with us.

Someone once said, "I would rather have less and have the Shepherd than to have more without Him." How about you?

Pet Peeves

2011-05-19T14:57:00.003-04:00

Ok, I'm going to get this off my chest! I am tired of the attitude that is prevalent in our technologically "advanced" world. The rudeness is driving me crazy! So here is what is bugging me.

Texting: I know that for some this is a great tool. But I'm tired of being in meetings where the participants feel like they have to reply to every text message they receive during the meeting. If I'm in charge of that meeting I want you to give your full attention to the task at hand. It's not multi-tasking. It's just plain rude!

Phones going off in church: If you can't shut your phone off for 60-75 minutes to allow God to talk to you, then you have a problem. Are you going to try to tell me that you can't focus on God for that period of time? Oh, and texting during church? Come on. If you are that bored, stay home! You are a distraction to others!

Taking calls when you are talking with others: Hey, I'll give you 100% of my focus when you and I are talking. What you have to say matters. Don't give me "I'm multi-tasking" when you interrupt our conversation to answer a call that could wait. What did you do before cell phones?

I know, I'm being too picky. But it bugs me. Anyone else?

A Christian Response to bin Laden's Death

2011-05-06T08:39:00.002-04:00

No doubt you have seen the various responses to the news of Osama bin Laden's death. There has been a great deal of relief with the knowledge that this evil master mind has been eliminated from terrorist leadership. Some have celebrated openly. For many, justice has been brought to bear against the man who planned the 9/11 attacks that forever changed the lives of the families of those who died at the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and a field in Pennsylvania.

I do not question the raid which brought about bin Laden's demise. I have no strong feelings about his being killed versus being captured alive and brought to trial. I trust the members of Seal Team 6 who had to make split-second decisions in a genuine life and death situation. They are courageous individuals who serve us with little concern for personal safety.

My great concern is the open celebrations that have taken place in our nation. I remember the disgust I felt after 9/11 when I saw Muslims and others dancing in the streets of their countries. They were celebrating the deaths of the innocent.

I for one am glad that bin Laden is out of the picture. I'm not sure we are any more safe than before. No doubt others will rise up and take his place. We will continue to live in the reality that there are people in this world who want to destroy our nation and our way of life.

But I'm not sure celebrating is the right response. Lives were lost in this raid - lives that were committed to a false god. Those who died without Christ will spend eternity in hell. I know some of you might be thinking, "Well, he got what he deserved." That may be true. But if we all received what we deserve, would we be celebrating? Would others? I celebrate the fact that I don't get what I deserve thanks to the grace of God. If not for Jesus, I would spend eternity with bin Laden and others just like him.

Ok, so what's my point? We should be praying for the Muslim world. We should be praying for the terrorists who threaten to destroy us. We must ask the Holy Spirit to break through the brainwashing of Satan and speak truth to the hearts of men and women everywhere that they might come to repent and receive Christ. Osama bin Laden's death, though it brings us some form of relief, should sober us to the reality of the horrors of sin and the lost condition of men's souls. Pray for the lost. All of the lost. Not just the nice person across the street. Pray for the jihadist who is strapping a bomb to his body in an attempt to earn eternal life. Pray for those whose intent is to harm us. Pray that someone will speak truth - the truth of Jesus - that they may turn from their ways and embrace the One who will set them free!

Truth Wins

2011-04-26T08:05:00.004-04:00

I typically don't attack other pastors publicly unless there is a real problem with regard to heresy. Rob Bell's latest book, "Love Wins," promotes a false gospel. Bell promotes the idea that hell does not mean eternal damnation and that sinners who die will get a second chance to wiggle their way into God's graces. Bell's argument is that a loving God would never send anyone to a place of eternal torment.

Ultimately, Bell is a universalist. His position is not even close to orthodox Christian faith. I will say that his teachings certainly draw a crowd (a church of about 10,000 in Grand Rapids, Michigan). But a crowd does not confirm that a person is right. What it may confirm is that those people like what they hear.

I'm not going to write a lengthy post in an attempt to refute Bell's heresy. The Bible makes it clear that all men are sinners and that the wage of sin is death, separation from God. That separation is eternal, just as the reward of the righteous is eternal life with God in heaven. Jesus spoke of hell often in the gospels. He indicated that it was a place of eternal torment from which no soul could escape. The only way to heaven is to embrace Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord in this life. This has been the teaching of orthodox Christianity for nearly two thousand years. And the reality of hell goes back to origins of biblical faith and historical Judaism. Bell's teaching is dangerous. It is heretical.

One final thought: God doesn't send anyone to hell. We choose (ah, free will) to either respond to God's grace by receiving or rejecting Jesus Christ. God is love, but He is also holy, just, and righteous. We must either embrace all of Him or none of Him.

Yes, love wins. But love only wins when it is founded on truth.

What Does Easter Mean?

2011-04-20T14:08:00.002-04:00

This Sunday is Easter - the most significant day / event in Christendom. Christians all over the world will gather in churches to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. American churches in particular will be filled, many to overflowing, with crowds they won't see again until Christmas.

But what does Easter really mean? Yes, it's the resurrection of Jesus and we will reflect upon that historical event. But what does it mean? If people only come to church on Christmas and Easter, is there really any reason for them to even participate in the celebration? Does the resurrection have any true impact on a life that doesn't participate in the resurrection during the rest of the year? Is it an annual event or a living reality?

What does Easter mean to you?

Extremes

2011-04-04T15:04:00.004-04:00

I've had a weekend of extremes. I went to see my father in PA on Friday and Saturday. It was sad to see the toll age and illness have taken on him. He was too weak to feed himself, and as I was feeding him, he said, "David, I never thought I'd get like this." He was so discouraged! We both cried as I left to come back home.

Then on Sunday, a family in the church asked me to dedicate their young son in a couple of months. He is a healthy little boy with his entire life in front of him.

The contrast was so stark. In just a matter of hours I went from feeling the pain of old age and hopelessness to the anticipation of a life. It was a real jolt as I dealt with my own emotions in all of it.

Appreciate the elderly and the infirm. Embrace the energy of new life. But hold both very carefully in your hands - they are precious!

Who's Got Your Back?

2011-03-29T16:16:00.005-04:00

I preached on the topic, You Were Meant for Community from Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 last Sunday. One of the key points was "a real friend will fight to protect you or your reputation." Here's a quote from that section of the message: "The words of this verse were written based on the military strategy of the ancient world. Nearly all combat was hand-to-hand. Soldiers went into battle with a partner, someone that could be counted on and trusted implicitly. The soldiers stood back-to-back in battle, always keeping their backs in contact. They fought whatever enemy came from any side."

It's essential that we have friends who have our backs. No matter how badly you mess up or fall short, it's comforting to know that you have someone who will be your friend. A real friend is someone who when you've made a fool of yourself doesn't feel you've done a permanent job.

A long-term friend told me today that he'd really made a mess of his life and was having to deal with a number of painful results. I let him know that I'd be his friend - I'd have his back - no matter what. He needed to know that no matter his failure he wasn't rejected by everyone.

Do you have friends who "have your back" no matter what? We all need them. And we need to be that friend for others. Think it through...

Agony?

2011-03-23T16:04:00.004-04:00

In the Greek language, the word agony has an interesting history. It was originally a term that was an alternative to another word (agon) for a place of assembly. It was later used to denote the contests or games that took place in those assembly areas. These contests usually involved great struggle. Eventually it was used to denote severe emotional strain and anguish.

Have you ever been at a place of agony? Perhaps you know what I am referring to...those places that we find ourselves in where we experience great strain or stress. We tend to agonize over significant things - the death of a loved one, financial pressure, health concerns, a wayward child, a career choice - you can name many more. Sometimes we agonize over things because of poor decisions we've made. At other times we agonize over things about which we have little or no control.

Question: Do we agonize over the same things that God agonizes about? Personal sin? Lost souls? The hurts of others? And then: Does our agony move us to action?

In the weeks that lead up to Easter, let us not forget the agony that Jesus felt in the Garden of Gethsemane. He agonized there for you and for me. That agony led Him to make the ultimate sacrifice. Let us embrace Jesus and allow Him to move in our hearts for all the right reasons.

Investing in Others

2011-02-25T16:14:00.003-05:00

My friend, Shawn, is an amazing coach! Once he has entered into a coaching relationship, he has the uncanny ability to see what others either overlook or simply cannot see. He is a blessing to the people he coaches. His investment has saved the ministry life of one man I know, and I'm sure there are others who would say the same.

When it comes to coaching, mentoring, or otherwise partnering with others, I want to ask this question of myself. Perhaps you'll be willing to ask it of yourself. Am I intentional in partnering with another person for the sake of building them up so that the Kingdom of God may increase? And a companion question might be this: Do I care who gets the credit?

Many people around us are drowning spiritually and professionally. Wouldn't it please God if we were to come along side them, just like the Holy Spirit (paraclete) does with us? Would it make a difference if we were to invest ourselves in another so that they might be more fruitful or productive? I believe the answer is yes! You may not feel qualified. You may feel inadequate. But you just might save some one's life if you were to simply invest yourself in another.

Faith Enough

2011-02-05T11:26:00.004-05:00

I received a call from a long-time friend who told me that he had just received word from his doctor that he has an aggressive form of cancer in his lungs. Treatment would take the better part of a year and he would then have a life expectancy of 2-3 years afterwards. To do nothing means that he has 6 months to a year. He and his wife have prayed about it and he has opted to do no treatment. He is asking God to heal him, and if He doesn't, then my friend said he has to be willing to get on the bus and go home when God says it's time. My friend is full of faith and is believing God for healing.

Have you ever wondered if you would have enough faith when you needed it? It's one thing to say we have faith in religion-protected America, but when your back is really up against the wall will you trust God to be faithful? When you still have a lot to live for and do, are you able to say, "I will trust Him"?

My friend's name is Dave Terhune. He is the pastor of a new church called The Cross in Rochester. Please pray for Pastor Dave, his wife Susan, and the rest of the family. Please ask God to heal Dave for the Lord's honor and glory.

A Proud Papa

2011-01-22T20:33:00.004-05:00

I have to show off my grandson, Micah, who will be one in just a few days. He is one handsome dude!

Living and Loss

2011-01-18T06:40:00.002-05:00

My cousin, Sandy Frampton, died on January 7. Sandy was only 49. She died after a return of cancer to her body. I was greatly encouraged at her funeral in Reynoldsville, PA, when the pastor of her home church related her conversion story, her baptism, and her unselfish service over the years both there as well as the church she attended near her work in Johnstown, PA. While her passing was untimely, at least from my perspective, her life was full of family and service for Christ.

For me, the loss was bitter sweet. I knew Sandy, but I'm afraid I didn't know her well enough. You see, over the years I've allowed my busy schedule to interfere with spending time with extended family. At the funeral I found myself being re-introduced to family members I hadn't seen in years - anywhere from 15 to 35 to be exact! For that, there was a profound sense of loss. My children have missed out on knowing much of their family due to neglect.

Let me encourage you to spend time with family. Go see your parents, your grandparents, your aunts, uncles, and cousins. Don't wait for a funeral to see them again. And if the miles are too great to see them in person, pick up the phone, write a letter, or even Skype. But don't let the years go by without connecting.

Vacancy

2011-01-13T15:46:00.005-05:00

When you are traveling and in need of lodging, those "no vacancy" signs in front of a hotel or motel are annoying. But when you think about it, a vacancy isn't necessarily a good thing. There may be a reason why that particular establishment isn't full. That reason may not be a good one!

Our nation is definitely lacking in authentic leadership - there indeed is a vacancy in this area. The recent events in Arizona bear this out. The tragedy of a gunman killing and wounding several people, including the injuries suffered by Congresswoman Giffords, is morally reprehensible. But to see people trying to politicize the incident is heartbreaking. Has our nation really descended this deep into the abyss of the absence of decency? Where is the compassion for those who have lost loved ones and those who are trying to cope and heal from this awful tragedy?

Paul's words to the church in Philippi are applicable here. In trying to help the early church work through conflict, he wrote, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit." (2:3).

We need leaders who will put others first. There is a vacancy in leadership in America. Where have all the leaders gone?

Who's in Your Circle?

2011-01-07T08:51:00.006-05:00

I love to read autobiographies and biographies of leaders. It's a habit I started many years ago. I am currently reading George W. Bush's Decision Points. It's a great read! I consider Bush to have been a good leader. He led from the heart, not from public opinion polls. He wasn't always right, but I respected Bush's leadership. Enough said.

In his chapter on personnel, Bush writes, "The people you choose to surround you determine the quality of advice you receive and the way your goals are implemented." Anyone in leadership understands this to be true when it comes to hiring staff, selecting confidants, or developing a team.

In Acts 6 the apostles needed to select men to care for the widows in the early church. Some would have looked upon this as a minor issue. But even in something like food distribution, the apostles selected men who were known to be "full of the Spirit and wisdom" (6:3).

Surround yourself with leaders who are truly spiritual. We live in a time where we cannot compromise on this. Raise the bar and expectations.

Looking Forward to Christmas

2010-12-21T08:20:00.005-05:00

I guess I'm still a kid at heart especially when it comes to Christmas! I find my greatest joy at Christmas when I watch my children open their gifts and shriek with joy. Even as they have gotten older, they are still a blast to watch. But I think I want to look back a few years.

Sarah and her Barbie's and Barbie clothes - now that was a riot! Her excitement level was off the charts! I remember the doll house I built for her when she was 6 or 7. She played with it for a long time. I'm sure this year her joy will be in watching Micah tear wrapping paper as he is having his first Christmas. (Adam and Sarah, we wish we could be there!) Jonathan was addicted to Legos. I remember one Christmas when he got five major kits and we put them all together in one day! The last few years he's been getting tools and loves every one of them. He gets a gleam in his eye thinking how he might use each one. He still comes home for Christmas morning and wears a Santa hat just like when he was little (sorry Jon - I spilled the beans). Bekah has been into electronic gizmos - but she seems to get excited about anything in wrapping paper. She's been counting the days till Christmas for weeks now! And I've never seen her not be thankful for what she receives. Unfortunately she wants Ohio State "stuff" this year. :(

Of course, our greatest Christmas gift is the Lord Jesus Christ! Thank you Heavenly Father for giving us Your Heart both then and now. We don't deserve your gift. Thank you for loving us unconditionally and passionately. May we all be more excited about Your Gift than any other gift we may receive this Christmas.

Staying On Top

2010-12-02T12:22:00.003-05:00

I'm sitting at home this afternoon, waiting for the furnace repair man to arrive. Our furnace went out this morning. I was at a meeting when Stevie called telling me that a burning smell was coming through the heating ducts and that the furnace was making loud noises. I'm guessing that it's seized bearing in the blower motor. The fact is that I've heard a minor noises from the blower the past few days. I had planned on calling the furnace guy this morning anyway, just to check things out.

I'm somewhat frustrated by this. We just had the furnace serviced three weeks ago. There apparently was no noticeable sounds at that time. So now we're going to have to deal with another service call and the costs associated with replacing the motor.

What's the point? It's important to stay on top of things. This is true when it comes to simple home maintenance. It is also true in our spiritual lives. We stay on top of things by staying in God's Word; prayer; fellowship; building accountability; focus on mission.

So many people today wait until a crisis to get things right with God. Once the crisis is over, they go right back to the same level of living that got them in trouble in the first place. Let's commit ourselves to staying on top of things in all areas of our lives.

Finding Joy

2010-11-24T07:58:00.002-05:00

In the movie The Bucket List, the two main characters played by Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson are sitting on top of a pyramid. Their discussion leads to two questions. The first is, "Have you found joy in your life?" The second is, "Have you brought joy to someone else?" The answers to these questions were believed by the ancient Egyptians to pave the way to heaven.

What brings you joy? For me, it's seeing my children find success in their pursuits. I'm so proud of all three of my children. I hope that Sarah, Jonathan and Rebekah will someday truly understand the depth of joy they have brought me. Oh, don't get me wrong - there have been more than a few challenges along the way. But none of those can even begin to diminish the joy they have brought me. And now we add our grandson Micah to the mix - even thinking about him as I write causes me to pause, reflect, and rejoice.

The second question is harder for me to answer. I don't write this expecting anyone to tell me that I have brought them joy. That's not the point. Am I the only one who looks back at his life and questions whether or not he has brought joy to others? Laughter, yes. Happiness, possibly. But joy? I think this is something I have to work at.

Have you found joy? Have you brought others joy? It's something to think about...

Spiritual Drift

2010-11-16T15:34:00.004-05:00

I am growing increasingly concerned about the spiritual drift I am seeing in men and women of faith. This drift is the subtle yet deadly slide away from what I will refer to as being spiritual dead-center. It's a cooling of our passion for Christ. It's the increasing ease with which we justify sin. It's the lack of compassion for those who do not yet know Christ.

I call it spiritual drift because it happens slowly, almost imperceptibly. I liken it to the times I've been swimming in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Coronado Island. The waves slowly pull you out to sea, especially when there is a rip tide. You don't notice it at first, but before you know it, you are farther from shore than you intended. And the danger with a rip tide is that even a strong swimmer has difficulty breaking free of its grasp.

How do we avoid spiritual drift?
1. Realize that it exists. Don't pretend you can't be drawn away from your spiritual center.
2. Reaffirm your commitment to Christ. Is He truly the Leader of your life?
3. Replenish yourself daily. Don't neglect the spiritual disciplines of Bible reading, prayer, fasting, solitude, giving, meditation, etc.
4. Remain accountable. There is no substitute for accountability. Have someone who is ahead of spiritually to look up to. Have someone you are mentoring to look up to you. Stay in relationship.
5. Repent. The moment you sense you have sinned, confess it for what it is and seek forgiveness.

These are just a few ideas. What do you do to avoid spiritual drift?

Don't Forget to Vote

2010-10-28T09:45:00.000-04:00

This Tuesday is the mid-term election. There are those who are saying this is the most important election cycle in the past 100 years. The accuracy of that statement may be suspect, but the importance of this election cannot be overstated.

Many surveys indicate the economy is the most important issue this election. I disagree. I believe the moral fiber of our nation is at stake. We have become a post-Christian nation due to the apathy Christians have shown in the electoral process since the 1960's. Think about it. Had we voted with conviction back then, things like school prayer and Bible reading would have remained in our schools. I know the courts made the decision to eliminate these things, but who appoints the judges? The people we elect! Since then we've experienced Roe vs. Wade and a plethora of laws designed to remove God from civic life.

It's time to take our privileges as Americans seriously. Vote. Connect with civic leaders. Let those who are doing the right things know, and let those who are not know that their actions are being evaluated.

Our daughter Bekah recently had a choir concert at school. The choir director selected several spiritual numbers for the various choirs to sing. I made sure to thank him after the concert for his stand. He blessed me when he said that the day he can't do that he's out. He is a believer and is committed to sharing his faith within the boundaries established by his superiors. But share he does! I know he was glad to hear of our support.

So let's get out there on November 2 and communicate our collective conscience. The moral fiber of our nation is at stake. You will make a difference when you vote. And you will make a difference if you don't. To abstain from voting is to say that you approve of the anti-God agenda being forced through Congress. No matter what the liberal media says, this is a nation that was founded "under God." Let's keep it that way!

Spiritual Horticulture

2010-10-20T07:59:00.004-04:00

My son, Jonathan, is very talented. He is a welder by trade. He is one of the rare individuals who knew when he was young (sixth grade to be exact) what career he wanted to pursue. He is certified to use four or five different types of welding machines.

But Jon has another talent that has come to light over the past couple of years and has taken us all by surprise. He is a gifted horticulturalist. Jon can grow just about anything. He has acquired an amazing amount of knowledge about various plants and flowers. He put together several amazing flower beds around our home and our garden this year was more productive than anything I've ever done. Jon puts in many hours of work in caring for his hobby, and he receives great enjoyment in seeing the end product. When a particular flower blooms, he takes dozens of pictures so he can share the fruit of his labor with friends and family. I'm glad my son has this hobby and that he receives so much joy from it.

Here's a question to ponder: Are we spiritual horticulturalists? Do we put loving effort into our spiritual growth? Do we nurture our development? Do we produce fruit that others can enjoy?

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." Galatians 5:22

Prayer and Fasting

2010-09-13T08:10:00.004-04:00

I watched a great web cast last night. It featured Dr. Jim Garlow, senior pastor of Skyline Wesleyan Church in San Diego. He had a number of guests including Chuck Colson. They challenged believers to do a couple of things.

First, read the Manhattan Declaration. It is a call to Christian conscience. I would encourage you to read it. It addresses the sanctity of life, the biblical definition of marriage, and the struggle for religious liberty. You can simply Google it and find the document.

Second, Colson, Garlow and others are calling on Christians in America to fast and pray for 40 days, September 20 - October 30. We need to focus our hearts toward God during this pivotal election period, as well as for the heart of America itself. Some of you may be able to fast a meal a day. Others for health reasons may have to find something else to fast. The key isn't what you fast, but that you give that time to prayer and ask God to change hearts.

If you want more information, go to Colson's website: http://www.breakpoint.org/.

Defining Biblical Christianity

2010-09-04T10:15:00.005-04:00

I have become increasingly concerned about the "dumbing down" of faith in our churches. I fear that we (the Church in general) have become so attraction-oriented that we have failed to teach our people doctrine. The easy believe-ism that has dominated the faith landscape has produced a void of understanding about what a Christ-centered faith is all about. Too many Christians don't read the Bible any more (I don't care what Gallup numbers may say). Too many pastors aren't teaching doctrine. They are afraid that people won't come to church if it isn't entertaining.

So when we have Glenn Beck calling America back to God, many evangelical Christians are jumping on the bandwagon and applauding his message. It's true that we must return to our God. But here's the rub - Glenn Beck is a Mormon. I appreciate his political conservatism. He has crafted an agenda and a position of influence. But Mormonism isn't Biblical Christianity! The doctrine of the Mormon church is not biblically sound and is in a state of constant change. Every new leader brings his own version of revelation to the table. The Book of Mormon even has supremacy over the Bible as far as Mormons are concerned. So when I hear Joel Osteen sharing with Pat Robertson that Glenn Beck is a Christian and I hear them both applauding this, I can't help but cringe.

I'm not writing to attack the Mormons, Joel Osteen, or Pat Robertson. I challenging my fellow pastors and teaching friends to join me in preaching doctrine in such a way as to inform and transform our people. Let's lift Christ higher than we ever have. Let's teach truth in an uncompromising fashion. Let's be unapologetic in our stand that the Bible is the only source of truth and that God is speaking - to us! Our people need to know what it is they believe when they say that they are following Jesus. If you and I don't teach the truth, they will look elsewhere. And who knows what they will find!

"Biblical Christians approach the Bible with reverence and respect, because they believe it is true and authoritative - that it contains God's very words." (Fritz Ridenour in So What's the Difference)

Just for Laughs

2010-08-23T15:23:00.003-04:00

When I first started blogging, my oldest daughter, Sarah, requested that I include some humor from time to time. I'm sure she was referring to things that I do that would make others laugh. I haven't written for some time, but I ran across these short blips that I hope will cause you to chuckle a bit.

Did you hear about the new line of Elvis Presley-themed steakhouses? They will be for people who love meat tender.

Ever since my friend had all the digits amputated from his feet, I find him annoying. I think I might be lack-toes intolerant.

How do two snails settle their differences? They slug it out.

Our local Catholic church has plans to bring its parishioners to services by bus. They plan to call it mass transit.

Did you hear the one about the man who dreamed he was a muffler on a car, and then that he was part of the wheel? He woke up exhausted and tired.

A jumper cable walks into a bar and looks around aggressively at the other customers. The bartender says, "All right, I'll serve you, but don't start anything."

My biologist friend tells me that constantly developing new varieties of plants can be a strain.

What do you call four matadors in quicksand? Quatro sinko.

What is an archaeologist? Someone whose career is in ruins.

Had enough?

Gone Fishin'

2010-07-20T10:34:00.006-04:00

I just returned from our annual summer camping vacation in upstate New York. Cayuga Lake is always beautiful, and it's nice to spend time with my wife's family.

One of my favorite things to do on vacation is to fish. My brother-in-law and I get up every morning at 5 AM, get on his boat, and fish for about four hours. Some years the fishing is great. This year it wasn't so good. The surface water was too warm for the fish we go after. About mid-week, the lake did a "turn over," but even though the water was cooler, the fish were skittish and we didn't catch as many as we would have liked. But even though the conditions were not ideal, it didn't stop us from going fishing. We still got up every morning at 5 AM with the hope of catching fish.

Do those of us who call ourselves Christians or church leaders have that kind of desire to catch fish? Jesus called His disciples (both then and now) to be fishers of men (see Mark 1:17). He said that He came for but one purpose - to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10). Jesus' life was that of "fishing" for those who needed Him the most. Do we do that? My friend, Chris Conrad, wrote a book entitled, "Your Church Can Win." He mentioned some disturbing stats that come from our Wesleyan "tribe." A year ago, 400 of our 1700+ churches didn't report a single salvation. The year before that it was 168. Those same churches spent over $13 million doing ministry without seeing a single soul won to Christ.

I'm not out to crucify those churches. When I look at my own ministry and our church, we do a lot of good things but we aren't really reaching the lost in a significant way. We do a lot of good things related to ministry, but our focus really hasn't been on others. Oh, we talk about reaching the unchurched, and we encourage our people to be missional. And in many ways we are. But the sad part is that very few people have come to Christ through our ministries this past year. The church grew, but that was in large part due to transfer growth - people who left another church to attend ours. That's not growth - that's simply shuffling the deck! A truly missional emphasis will result in people being saved and brought into the Kingdom of God. Anything less is merely being a social service agency that does good for self-gratification.

I'm frustrated, but perhaps more so with my own failure in this area. I need to recommit myself to the task of reaching souls. I can no longer allow myself to be distracted by my administrative responsibilities at the local and district levels. God forgive me for failing to be a soul winner in recent years. I'm going back to keeping the main thing the main thing.

Gone fishin'.

Am I Concerned About America?

2010-07-06T14:26:00.002-04:00

I met with a fantastic group of Christian men the other day. It's a group that gets together to pray and share truth in such a way that inspires the participates to go out into their daily grind and live wholeheartedly for Christ. As we met and shared on Monday, it was apparent that we are all concerned about the direction our country is going and what we would perceive to be the outcome of said path. The men in the group shared a number of concerns.

What I took from our meeting was a sense that the Church of Jesus Christ MUST take a stand. However, I am not advocating a social-political solution. Now, if God has led you to make a mark through the political system, go for it! I would never suggest that anyone not obey God's leading. But what I am suggesting is far more spiritual in nature, and we find the basis for these thoughts in 2 Chronicles 5-7. King David had turned the nation of Israel over to his son, Solomon (see 1 Chronicles 28). Solomon was anointed king, and he set himself to the task of building the Temple, the permanent place of sacrifice and worship for the Jews. Upon completion of the Temple, Solomon led the people in an incredible dedication ceremony as they consecrated not only the Temple but themselves to the Lord God.

God knew that His people had great intentions, but He also knew they had a propensity for spiritual failure. God also knew that this would bring about ruin in the land of Israel. But He gave them (and us) hope. I know you are probably familiar with 2 Chronicles 7:14, but let me remind you of the key to the redemption of a nation that has fallen from God: "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land."

The call here is for God's very own people to repent and turn back to Him! We can bemoan the moral collapse of our country and blame it on anyone we like, but God says that if we want our nation to be restored, if we want to become a great nation once again, His people - the Church - must get very serious about our relationship with Him. Too many people who sit in church pews (or other styles of seating) Sunday after Sunday do not have a relationship with God. Oh, they've prayed a prayer so that their fire insurance is paid up, but they are not passionately pursuing God! I know that sounds very condemning, but I perceive it to be true based upon what I see and what I hear from my pastor friends. America's complacency toward God is a result of our complacency toward Him.

The answer is not to rebel against the government nor against the church. I am a fan of the church! It is God's organization - the only organization Jesus both left behind and blessed (see Matthew 16:18). The answer to save America is within the hearts of those who make up the Church! Perhaps if we took our faith more seriously and passionately pursued God, others would hunger and thirst to do the same!

So what is your passion? What are you pursuing?

I Don't Like Weakness

2010-07-01T09:27:00.004-04:00

I spent time this week with my father. He's in a nursing home in my home town of Greenville, Pennsylvania. He's been there since falling and breaking a hip nearly two years ago. We've tried to convince Dad to move closer to us, but at age 88, he's determined to live out his life where he grew up and lived nearly all of his life. So my monthly visits consist of driving five hours, spending the day with him, spending the night at a local motel, getting up and spending the morning with him before driving home. I do enjoy my time with him.

Dad is getting weaker, and I don't like it. He's a man who worked hard all of his life. He worked for General Motors for 44 years in a factory. He served in the South Pacific during World War II. It's only been in the last 6 or 7 years that we've watched him become frail. It's hard to watch him as he is confined to a wheel chair, totally dependent upon others for nearly everything in his life. He has to be assisted with everything. It's hard to see this strong man in this stage of life.

I don't like what I see. And physically, I don't like what I feel. I'm not that old (I don't consider 52 to be old, no matter what you think!), but even now I face limitations that I never thought I would ever experience. At times I fear that I will some day be just like my dad.

But as I write this, I'm also reminded of a spiritual truth. Unless I am totally dependent upon God, I can never become the person He intended me to be. It is only in my weakness that I experience His strength. Do I struggle with this? Yes I do, and perhaps you do as well. I too often depend on my talents or intelligence to pull me through. More than ever I need to allow Him to be my strength. How about you?

Bekah's Softball

2010-06-17T22:31:00.003-04:00

This has been a great year for Bekah in fast pitch softball. She's played for four years at the Division I level. Last year, her team was undefeated and won the tournament championship! This year has been a bit rougher. The team was very young, and Bekah was the oldest player on her team. She was the obvious team leader, and she had a huge role in her team doing far better than anyone anticipated. She's the starting catcher, plays some shortstop, and this year, she added pitching to her list of accomplishments. In her final regular season game last night, she played a stellar game behind the plate for 5 innings, and then, pitched 2 shutout innings to preserve a 2-1 victory! Next week it's tournament time. Way to go, Bekah!

You might wonder why I'm blogging this. I'm a proud father, no doubt! But Bekah learned a lot of valuable lessons this past season. She learned how to encourage the younger players who really have a lot to learn about softball. She also learned when it is necessary to light a fire under a player who isn't performing up to their ability or to expectations (yes, Bekah can light a fire under her peers). She also learned to sacrifice for the good of the team. Her own talents improved, but she helped others get better at the same time.

There are good lessons for all of us who are older than Bekah's 13 years. We need to be driven. We need to expect more of others, but at the same time, we need to encourage along the way. We need to improve consistently as we help others improve. The list could go on...

Mystical Experiences

2010-06-05T20:19:00.002-04:00

I've changed a lot over the years. No, I'm not referring to my graying hair (and lack of it), nor am I thinking about how my health has been changing for the better over the past several months. I'm slowing down in certain ways, all the while watching life speed by. But those aren't the changes I'm mulling over.

When I was younger, I felt like I had to explain God to everyone - how He works, why He does what He does, etc. For some reason I was obsessed with having to have all the answers, even if no one was buying in to them. But over the past few years, I've become more "mystical" in my musings. No, I'm not slipping into some cult-like fanaticism. I just thing that there are some things that take place that can only be God at work, with no explanation.

Let me share with you some examples. Take communion, or The Lord's Supper. In the tradition I am from, we believe that the elements represent the body and blood of our Lord Jesus. And we eat and drink in remembrance of Him. But we also think of The Lord's Supper as a "means of grace." So just what does happen when we consume the elements? I think it's something different for all of us. The same could be said of baptism. The ritual itself is sometimes referred to as "an outward sign of an inward cleansing." This rite, too, is a means of grace. Is it more than a sign? What about those people who have been released from demons and dependencies during the act of baptism? Isn't that somewhat mystical?

The other day I was musing about fellowship, when it hit me. Fellowship could also be viewed as a means of grace. While there are very practical benefits for being involved in a fellowship - accountability, friendship, learning, encouragement, etc - are not some of the benefits mystical in nature? Does not the Holy Spirit draw us it to fellowship? For those of us who are committed to a fellowship, there are perhaps benefits that can not be put in to words. Those who refuse and choose to go it alone in the faith (the thought of which is ludicrous) are missing something glorious, something wonderful, something...mystical. What do you think?

The Barbarian Way

2010-06-02T16:30:00.005-04:00

I have to admit, I'm just getting around to reading "The Barbarian Way" by Erwin McManus. It was recommended to me by my friend, Tom "Hit Man" Hartman. I found some really intriguing words. After you read them, I'd like to know what you think. Perhaps you've read the book and have some feedback. Or maybe something inside of you is stirred and you have to respond.

McManus writes, "Two thousand years later the call to follow Christ has been repackaged to be smooth and trouble-free, filled with opportunity and promise but lacking risk, passion, and sacrifice. Is this really what Jesus died for? If He chose the way of the cross, where would He hesitate leading us? Is it possible that to follow Jesus is to choose the barbarian way? Jesus never made a pristine call to a proper and safe religion. Jesus beckons His followers to a path that is far from the easy road. It is a path filled with adventure, uncertainty, and unlimited possibilities - the only path that can fulfill the deepest longings and desires of your heart. This is the barbarian way: to give your heart to the only One who can make you fully alive. To love Him with simplicity and intensity. To unleash the untamed faith within. To be consumed by the presence of a passionate and compassionate God. To go where He sends you, no matter the cost."

I know the quote is lengthy, but as I read this, my heart was challenged afresh. Do we (Christ-followers) play it too safe at times? Are we guilty of following the path of least resistance rather than passionately pursuing Christ? Do we (pastors) try to make it too easy for people to follow Jesus, failing to explain the true cost of discipleship as laid out by Jesus in Mark 8:34-38? Have we become accustomed to a "smooth" cross? What happened to the old rugged cross?

Challenges

2010-05-27T16:55:00.002-04:00

As a pastor, I feel like I am constantly facing challenges. There are new people to try to assimilate into the fellowship. Finances are always an issue, and we have to look for ways to encourage people to give. The needs of the community are always pressing in, which is great for ministry opportunity, but it causes me to evaluate each opportunity to decide if it is a "good" thing or the "right" thing in which to engage. Of course, each day is filled with the "regular ministry stuff," and if you don't mind my saying so, some of it is less thrilling than the rest!

I find encouragement in the words of Scripture. I'm reminded that the Jordan River was at flood stage when Joshua was leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. I made a note in my bible the other day - "High tide demands high trust." I am reminded almost daily that the success of this church does not depend upon me, but upon my faithfulness to trust the One who builds the church. After all, Jesus said He would build His church, and the gates of Hades would not prevail against it. A prevailing church is filled with challenges, but it is His church, and during the high tide times I need to increase my trust.

Got challenges?

Failure - Is It Really Optional?

2010-05-04T08:55:00.003-04:00

Quite some time ago I read Craig Groeschel's book, It. The book is about how churches and leaders can get "it" and keep "it." I found the book to be an excellent read; it was both challenging and practical.

I remember reading about the issue of failure. A common phrase we hear in life is "Failure is not option." Do you remember those words from Gene Kranz about bringing the Apollo 13 astronauts home? But Groeschel makes what I think is a great point on page 114 of his book: "Failure is not an option. It is essential." As I think about it, I have to admit I've made a lot of mistakes in life - mistakes that many would consider failures. I also have to admit that I am I've been an equal opportunity failure - my mistakes and failings are not limited to one particular area of life. And if I can be really honest, I've beaten myself up a lot over those things.

But I've also learned that failure is not final. I've learned a lot from my failures. I guess I've learned to fail forward (thanks for the phrase, John Maxwell!). Again, quoting from the Apollo 13 movie, I've learned the art of what it means to be a "successful failure." Let me give you an example. In 1997 I moved my family from San Diego to Fort Wayne (right there some of you would say "failure"!) to do a church plant. After five years, I had to walk away from the plant and it folded. Many of my peers called it a failure. And if the only criteria of success was to have an established church, then they were right. But let me tell you about the successes out of that experience. Several of the families who were a part of that plant are now in different parts of the country, and they have taken the great things we did as a church plant and implemented them in their lives and ministries. They are bringing about life-change in others, and they would tell you how instrumental Summit Church was in their spiritual development. I am now the Director of Church Planting for the Indiana North District of The Wesleyan Church, and I do church planter assessments with our denomination. I learned a lot about how not to do a church plant, and over the years I've adopted some better practices that have helped us plant 3 new churches in the past 3 years. I've learned the importance of having a team of people who are involved in the process, and God has given me a great team.

Have you had some "successful failures" in your life? Care to share? Do you think that failure is essential or would you take issue with that? I'm listening...

Eagles Wings

2010-04-20T09:10:00.002-04:00

Year ago, my former district superintendent, Dr. Steve Babby, presented me with an eagle statue during a morning service at Wesleyan Church of the Valley in Bonita, California. His kind words about my leadership of the church and district both humbled and inspired me. That eagle is one of my most prized possessions and has a place of prominence in my office. I'm always lifted up when I see that eagle.

In Isaiah 40, we find these words of hope: "but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (40:31)

For those of you who take the time to read this blog, would you please do me a favor? Would your please take a moment and tell me an "eagle story" from your life? What has God renewed your strength? When did He enable you to soar on eagles wings, especially after a time when you struggled? Let's share our stories with each other and encourage one another with these words of hope.

Tracing Spiritual Formation

2010-04-09T20:40:00.005-04:00

I did something today that turned out to be a great blessing! I spent the past couple of days in Greenville, PA, visiting with my dad @ the nursing home. As I left to return home to Indiana, I took a different route to the interstate. The route I took led me past the church where I was saved and where I received my call to ministry. Even though the church fell on some bad times many years ago and the buildings are now occupied by a different ministry, I felt compelled to stop. I wanted to stick my head into the place where the foundations of my spiritual development were laid.

The current pastor of the church, Pastor Jim and his wife, Pastor Jan, graciously allowed me to look around. Memories flooded my mind and my heart. Then Pastor Jim invited me to his office (my old senior high Sunday School classroom!). As we shared together, I was able to help fill in the blanks on a few years of the church's history - the "boom years" of the church. But more important, he shared with me how the vision given to him for this church in 1993 was identical to the one given to my pastor, Rev. Clemens Farver, way back in the late 1960's! We rejoiced in the fact that while the "players" have changed, the mission hasn't!

Those of you who know me know that I am not a sentimental person. But as I got up to leave, I shook Pastor Jim's hand, and I prayed. I wept as I asked God to "do it again," just as he had during those days long ago. God is blessing the ministry there in a new and fresh way, but in many ways, it felt like it did those many years ago.

I have never put much stock in places. That's been a mistake! Today I realized why God told the Israelites to pile up stones, or name cities certain names, or why certain stands of trees where so important. They were spiritual markers as well as reminders of what God had done. Today, I visited one of those markers in my life. It was a rewarding visit, and one that I will make again and again. Let me challenge you to go back to a spiritual high water mark place in your life. Allow God to speak to your heart afresh.

Thank you, Pastor Jim, for allowing me the privilege of spending time with you and for your faithfulness to God's unchanging call and plan!

How's Your Coffee?

2010-04-02T10:24:00.003-04:00

"Like great coffee, great churches are slow brewed." - Matt Keller in The Up The Middle Church

My "growing up" years in ministry training were in what I will fondly call "the church growth era." I went to conferences and heard great speakers, read books, and followed great churches, all of which told me that if I plugged in their formula, my church would experience explosive growth. I have to tell you that I tried all of that. I was privileged to pastor some great churches, but I never once experienced that big blow out that was promised. I worked the programs, trust me! I stressed, put in the long hours, and busied myself with the task of growing a great church. I was a ministry-aholic who put my work above everything, including my family. And I was miserable, but I didn't want to confess that to a single soul.

I've learned in recent years that my job isn't to grow a great church. That was a hard pill to swallow. This revelation was contrary to everything I had been taught about church growth. But I've come to the conclusion that it's not my job to build a great church. It's Jesus' job - He said "I will build my church..." (Matthew 16:18). He promised to build a prevailing church; a church that would stand against the forces of hell itself!

So what's my job? I'm supposed to build people - people Jesus will use to build His church! It's a slow process. Oh, some individuals "build" faster than others, but over alll, it's a lengthy process. I wish I had embraced this concept years ago. I wouldn't have been frustrated about ministry for all those years. I'm not saying I don't get frustrated now. But I'm learning to walk with people in the three-steps-forward-two-steps-back faith journey. I'm learning to be content with that. It's not always easy, and there are times I still want things to happen sooner rather than later. But just as I've learned to enjoy a good cup of slow-brewed coffee (thanks, Sarah!), I am learning to enjoy seeing God work out His will in an individual's life. And I'm learning to enjoy that process in the life of the church.

That's where I'm at. How about you? How's your coffee?

Thank You

2010-03-09T11:03:00.003-05:00

I was humbled today when a member of the congregation called to tell me thank you for being there for them during the loss of a parent. Yes, it's my ministry to do it, but at the same time, it's really nice to have someone say thank you.

So that got me to thinking that I need to say "thank you" to those who have invested in my life. I doubt I've expressed my thanks to many of you who have befriended me, cared for me, encouraged me, and otherwise graced my life. I won't attempt to name everyone - the list is too large! I am deeply indebted to so many people. But if you are reading this post, I thank you for your love and friendship. I thank you for the relationship I have with you. Thank you for being there for me when I've needed you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Necessary Change

2010-02-17T14:58:00.008-05:00

I have been reading the book "The Fly in the Ointment" by J. Russell Crabtree. There are a lot of great insights in this book as to why denominations are failing their churches and how to change that trend. It's a great read for anyone who desires to be a change agent.

One quote that really stuck out to me is this: "Every day that we resist necessary change closes a door of opportunity somewhere in the future." (see page 7). My first impulse was to agree, but then the word "necessary" really caught my eye. Change for change sake isn't spiritual nor is it satisfying. But what necessary changes do I have to make in my life to make sure I don't miss out on future opportunities? I have to be honest and answer that one. How about you? What necessary changes does my church have to make so as to have a positive impact in the days to come? For my church-leader friends, have you asked yourself that recently?

But here is the real rub: Am I really willing to change whatever necessarily needs to be changed? Ultimately the change has to start with the strategic change agent. That's me! That's you! What do you think?

Launching New Journey!

2010-02-09T10:17:00.002-05:00

Please celebrate with me the launch of a new church in Indiana North District! New Journey Community Church of Wabash, IN, had its first public service on February 7, 2010. Pastor Tom and Sarah Cochran are the dedicated church planters. They are assisted by Matt Cox. There were 123 people at their first service! Two people came to know Christ for the first time, and another person rededicated his life to Christ! Pastor Tom, Sarah, and Matt, thanks for your faithfulness and hard work. This is why we do what we do!

Introducing Micah

2010-02-03T19:34:00.003-05:00

This is Micah James Burmeister - the most handsome grandson on the planet! We are so proud of Adam and Sarah. Congratulations to the Burmeisters!

Papa Dave

2010-02-01T10:55:00.003-05:00

Exciting news! Our daughter Sarah and her husband Adam are the proud parents of Micah James Burmeister, born January 31, 2010. Micah weighs in at 8 pounds, 10 ounces, and he is 21 1/4 inches long. We are absolutely thrilled for the Burmeister's of Jamul, California! Of course, we are thrilled to be first-time grandparents! It looks like I'm going to be Papa Dave, but Stevie isn't too excited about the term "grandma." She's adopted the Spanish term for grandmother - abuela (I think I've spelled it right), but she prefers abuelita (which means young grandmother). And Rebekah and Jonathan are now aunt & uncle respectively!

Giving Thanks

2010-01-29T16:59:00.003-05:00

I am grateful to report that my knee surgery on Monday (1/25) was a success! The torn cartilage was removed and they scraped out some arthritis that managed to accumulate under the knee cap (of course, it didn't show in the MRI). I have had a great recovery and am walking, occasionally using a cane. I abandoned the crutches by Wednesday morning. Painkillers went by the wayside Tuesday morning. Of course, Stevie was the nurse-in-charge, worked hard, and now is off the clock! I just have to get in shape for the Easter weekend basketball marathon!

Great News!

2010-01-20T19:55:00.004-05:00

I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in September. I've been working on my diet, taking Metformin once a day, and testing my blood twice a day. My original A1C test score was 10.3 (it's supposed to be between 4 and 7). The GREAT news I received yesterday is that my new score is 5.5! That means my daily average blood sugar level has dropped from 200-220 to 100-110. The doctor says I'm "normal" - I know, don't say a word! I've also lost 26 pounds since September! I am to continue on my diet and lose another 15-20 pounds. That will happen once I can exercise again - after my knee surgery this coming Monday. You might wonder how I celebrated. I ate another salad...

What's Right With the Church?

2010-01-06T13:24:00.005-05:00

Ok, I'm going to go on a bit of a rant right now. As a pastor and church leader, I've often been confronted by individuals who desire to tell me everything that is wrong with the church. They don't always limit their comments to a particular local church. They attack all churches, alleging that all churches have the same shortcomings and therefore are to be shunned. As a former church planter and current church planting director, I am a bit alarmed by some of the tactics used by planters to attract the unchurched to their new work - a "we aren't like everyone else" approach that again insinuates that every other church is faulty. And the books - good Christian books - often attack the church's shortcomings, leaving many with a sense that church is of little or no value.

My problem is this: the Church is Jesus' creation (see Matthew 16:13-20). Unfortunately, the Scriptures really don't tell us how to "run" the church, so we organize and facilitate ministry based upon our desire (or lack thereof) to connect with our culture. Our finite efforts often fail to mirror the ultimate image of what the Church of our infinite God and Savior intended, but even so, Jesus said "the gates of hell will not prevail against it (the Church).

So what's right with the Church? I can think of a ton of things, but I'd like for you to tell me what you think. Let me get you started. I think one thing the church gets right is drawing people together in unity of purpose and spirit. Another positive is how many churches are really great at "being" Christ in the community by meeting needs in tangible ways. Of course, the Church is awesome when it points people to Jesus. How's that for starters? What can you add?

The Battle of Self-Discipline

2009-12-16T10:25:00.009-05:00

Self-discipline. It's not something I like, nor am I always good at it. I'm probably like many of you. If there is something I like or enjoy, I am quick to get after it. But if it interferes with my agenda, well...

My latest battle with self-discipline is health-related. I was diagnosed in September with type 2 diabetes - my A1C test was off-the charts! I'm taking a little magic pill every morning, and then I eat three meals a day and test my blood sugar twice a day. I have to record every item I eat and report to the doctor regularly. My doctor wants me to get my A1C numbers in the "normal" range by mid-January.

The problem is - I LOVE FOOD! And, of course, I love the wrong foods! I've had to significantly change my eating habits. I have to discipline myself to reject the temptation to eat those things I know are bad for me. I have to do it now because I haven't done it all my life. And if I don't want to have serious health problems down the road, I have to make these changes. That means no cheating!

Self-discipline is something many of us struggle with, in all areas of life. Are you struggling with anything in this area? Are there changes you have to make now in order to be where you are supposed to be in your life? We need to pray for each other in this area. In doing so, we will be carrying each other's burdens, and in doing so, we will fulfill the law of Christ.

Thanksgiving

2009-11-27T10:19:00.004-05:00

If you know me, you know I'm not the truly sentimental type. But I do need to give thanks. We were blessed to have our daughter, Sarah, and our son-in-law, Adam, and yet to be born Micah, home for a week (they chose to leave San Diego to spend the week before Thanksgiving in Indiana!). As I left the Indy airport after dropping them off this morning, I reflected on how special this Thanksgiving really was. We had our entire family home with us for the holiday! It's been a long time since we were all together. So I am thankful for my family, as well as God's provision that allowed us to be together this year. (Sarah just called from Dallas, TX, to say they had completed the first half of their trip home - I miss the three of them already!)

I'm also thankful for great friends. Our ministry has given us friends all over the United States as well as several places throughout the world. I'm blessed to have good friends who allow me the privilege of staying connected with them. Some friends have been by our side for over 30 years, some more recent, but all are very special to us. My life has been enriched by their influence.

If you haven't done so yet, please let someone know you are thankful for their influence in your life. It may come at just the right time for them, and you will be glad you did!

Missional Intentionality

2009-11-12T15:22:00.004-05:00

Earlier today I had the wonderful opportunity to speak with a pastor friend who is also in the military. During the course of our conversation, he said something that was so profound that I asked him to repeat it so I could write it down. He said, "Soldiers in high conflict areas share fewer personal problems than those in relatively low conflict areas." I asked him to flesh that out for me. He explained that military personnel in high conflict areas don't dwell on personal problems or issues because their primary focus is on the mission. They cannot afford any distraction that might jeopardize their own safety or the safety of the others in their unit.

Well, it's obvious (I'm writing about it) that it got me to thinking. I believe my friend's military observation may be a universal truth. As a pastor and church leader for nearly 30 years, I've observed a number of different churches either first-hand or from a distance. Those churches that are truly missional - they are focused on a ministry that is "others-driven" - tend to have fewer internal conflicts and problems than those that are more inward-focused. I've observed something similar in lives of individuals. People who are focused on others tend to complain less and do not have many of the personal or relational conficts that those who are more self-absorbed seem to experience.

Moving past looking at others, I need to make sure that I am focused on the mission Christ has given me. I am responsible to lead others entrusted to my care with missional intentionality. I am trying. How about you? Where is your focus?

Tragedy & Prayer

2009-11-10T08:58:00.007-05:00

I recently reconnected with some friends from a previous ministry assignment. We had a great time of getting caught up on each other's families. A few weeks later, a terrible tragedy took place in their lives. Their grandson (age 27) shot and killed his estranged wife in front of their toddler son. It came as a tremendous shock to all in the family. I've spoken to our friends about their pain and shock. When things like this happen in a small town, everyone knows and it's hard to get a moment of peace outside your home.

I'm asking for prayer for the family as the toddler is in the middle of a custody battle. I won't go into the details here, but suffice it to say that there are parties involved in this dispute that really can not provide long term, quality care. We need to pray for Max, who at 16 months is in great need of godly parental influence. We also need to pray for his dad, Tyler. While the judicial system will mete out the punishment for the crime he has committed, there is more at play. Tyler's soul is of great value to God, and we must pray for his salvation. His soul is worth redeeming! Please pray!

Disturbances

2009-11-04T08:21:00.000-05:00

I was driving to a teaching assignment with IWU when I noticed something moving from right to left. There, in broad daylight (1:00 in the afternoon), a deer bolted across the road. And while the deer was about 200 yards ahead of me, my first reaction was to slow down. But then I surveyed the situation. To my right was a wide open field - the nearest tree stand was at least a quarter of a mile away. On the left side of the road was a large corn field; a great place for the deer to feed and to hide. While it's not unusual for us to see deer crossing the roads or standing in fields in rural Indiana, it is unusual to see one making such a bold break in the middle of the day. So I began to think, "What made that deer do what it normally wouldn't do? Was there a disturbance in the woods (kind of like a disturbance in the force - sorry, I couldn't help myself)? Did this deer have a death wish?"

But then I took it a step further. What influences in our lives cause us to do things we wouldn't normally do? While we could take that down a negative path, I'd rather venture in a positive direction. What kind of disturbance does it take for us to do the things we should do as Christian leaders? Do we naturally feed the poor, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless? Do we naturally influence our associates in spiritual matters? Do we obey the call of Christ easily, or do we have to have a "disturbance" in our lives to live like Christ in our world? Perhaps I need to be disturbed more than I have been, or than I like to be. Perhaps I need to pray for more disturbances in my life...

Why Area 51?

2009-11-03T11:14:00.002-05:00

Well, I was challenged by some friends to start blogging. I have resisted this move for a lot of reasons - I don't have time, I don't want to waste time, etc.

But earlier today I had a huge brain cramp. I was doing some district work and failed to attach a document that I had promised to send the individual. When it finally dawned on me an hour later, I sent him a new email. It then hit me: I'm 51, and my brain is an area that supposedly doesn't exit!

On a serious note, I'll be sharing some ideas from time to time that I hope will be helpful to others. I look forward to your feedback.