As the High Council of The Salvation Army was wrestling with the various questions that will be presented to the soon to be prospective Generals, I was fielding numerous questions from the Holy Session of The War College. I have mentioned before that there are many students this year, but I have not mentioned how inquisitive they are!
I like questions because they generate discussion and discussion helps us all work through our salvation "in fear and trembling." Even though I pride myself in having a good understanding of many spiritual things, I still learn new things from people all the time. And I often learn good stuff from unexpected places (including from students with lots of questions!).
I taught back-to-back class sessions today, since there is a local conference the students are attending Friday. Therefore I'll be in prayer ministry all day Friday from 8 AM to 7 PM! After classes today, I did a couple more prayer ministry sessions which went VERY well. We kicked out more demons and settled some stuff from the past, which is always very cool!
Then in the evening I had an interesting conversation with Danielle (aren't ALL conversations with Danielle "interesting?") about the gift of tongues. I've got some major re-thinking about this topic, so I'll blog more on the subject later. I've already spent some extra time in The Word chatting with Jesus on it!
Looks like I've got "many questions" for Jesus too!
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Monday, January 23, 2006
Thank God for Sunflower Seeds!
My first full day of teaching/prayer ministry has finished and my thoughts at the moment surround my gratitude for sunfower seeds. Well, not necessarily the seeds themselves, but the salt they are covered in!
If you know me, you know that when I talk for long periods of time, my throat gets sore. So I typically have salted sunflower seeds around to bathe my throat in the healing benefits of salt. By the way, I talked a long time today!
The first class of the session went very well. In fact, I was impressed at the student's interest in continuing the questions and discussion (talking) more than 1/2 an hour beyond class end! And some good healthy discussion at that.
A little after Noon, we went to lunch at the Harborlight (and talked some more) until it was time to go to The Command Center for prayer ministry (1:00-6:00). Granted, much of this time was listening (and sucking on salty seeds!), but when you put it all together I end up needing some voice rest at the end of each day.
We had five very effective prayer sessions today. I was pleased to see God bring freedom to a wide variety of situations, including casting out some demons in a very easy way. The person was not even aware they had done so until I pointed it out to them at the end! Cool!
Tomorrow, it's two teaching sessions (divided by lunch) and three prayer sessions (followed by a private invitation to dinner). I'll be teaching some of my favorite stuff, so I'll certainly need those sunflower seeds!
Thank Good for sunflower seeds!
If you know me, you know that when I talk for long periods of time, my throat gets sore. So I typically have salted sunflower seeds around to bathe my throat in the healing benefits of salt. By the way, I talked a long time today!
The first class of the session went very well. In fact, I was impressed at the student's interest in continuing the questions and discussion (talking) more than 1/2 an hour beyond class end! And some good healthy discussion at that.
A little after Noon, we went to lunch at the Harborlight (and talked some more) until it was time to go to The Command Center for prayer ministry (1:00-6:00). Granted, much of this time was listening (and sucking on salty seeds!), but when you put it all together I end up needing some voice rest at the end of each day.
We had five very effective prayer sessions today. I was pleased to see God bring freedom to a wide variety of situations, including casting out some demons in a very easy way. The person was not even aware they had done so until I pointed it out to them at the end! Cool!
Tomorrow, it's two teaching sessions (divided by lunch) and three prayer sessions (followed by a private invitation to dinner). I'll be teaching some of my favorite stuff, so I'll certainly need those sunflower seeds!
Thank Good for sunflower seeds!
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Anger Anyone?
Generally, we have been taught that it is bad to express anger. Along those lines, we have been taught it is certainly the absolute worst thing to get mad at God!
But have you read the Psalms? David gets downright belligerent with God at times! He lets all his anger out and you know what? God can handle it. He's big enough to take it. He knows everything anyway- why do we think we should "try" to keep it from him? As if he doesn't know exactly what's going on!
I have found it's better to let that junk out than to hold it all in. If you hold it in too long, it builds into an ugly mess that can physically hurt you. Here's a case in point from my Listening Prayer Community Conference these last few days:
As we were heading to the first night, my stomach felt like someone was pumping it up with an air pump. I wanted to burp or something, but couldn't. Nothing I did helped. I didn't feel sick in any other way, just that my stomach felt like it was about to burst. I asked God what was happening and he said it was a spiritual issue, not physical. That took a bit of a load off, because I was wondering if I should get to a hospital! Since it was spiritual, I prayed against it and it subsided enough to comfortably sit through the evening's teachings.
At one point they asked us to listen for something God wanted to deal with in our personal prayer sessions (scheduled throughout the weekend). When I asked, I got a simple word: "anger." I wrote that down and some other thoughts that came during the evening's teachings as well. I went home with a little pain but by morning it was all gone . . . until we headed out to the second evening's session! The pain returned with a vengeance and grew to the point where I couldn't sit still during the worship. In fact, I never made it to any of the evening's scheduled events, because I ended up in a private room with someone praying for me. The pain was so bad at this point I couldn't sit still for a moment and couldn't find a single position where it was bearable.
But as we prayed we began dealing with anger that had built up within me all during my life. The more we dealt with that anger, the less my stomach hurt. My guess was- we were on to something! Finally, I was directed to go to the "soaking room," where people could just sit in God's presence and soak him in. I was instructed to tell God everything I was angry about and it focused on my anger at him.
I won't detail everything I spewed out at him, but I will say that when I finished, all the pain was gone and it hasn't come back since. Saturday, we finished up the issue and when we were through praying, I felt "lighter" than I have ever been! Issues that had been weighing me down for my entire life were gone- for good!
I find it interesting that I have long taught we can get angry at God; that we need to- he can handle it and it helps us express ourselves to God so that we can deal with our pain. But in my own life, I felt like I shouldn't do that. Now I know different- and I mean "heart knowing" as opposed to "mind knowing." Sometimes that makes all the difference.
But have you read the Psalms? David gets downright belligerent with God at times! He lets all his anger out and you know what? God can handle it. He's big enough to take it. He knows everything anyway- why do we think we should "try" to keep it from him? As if he doesn't know exactly what's going on!
I have found it's better to let that junk out than to hold it all in. If you hold it in too long, it builds into an ugly mess that can physically hurt you. Here's a case in point from my Listening Prayer Community Conference these last few days:
As we were heading to the first night, my stomach felt like someone was pumping it up with an air pump. I wanted to burp or something, but couldn't. Nothing I did helped. I didn't feel sick in any other way, just that my stomach felt like it was about to burst. I asked God what was happening and he said it was a spiritual issue, not physical. That took a bit of a load off, because I was wondering if I should get to a hospital! Since it was spiritual, I prayed against it and it subsided enough to comfortably sit through the evening's teachings.
At one point they asked us to listen for something God wanted to deal with in our personal prayer sessions (scheduled throughout the weekend). When I asked, I got a simple word: "anger." I wrote that down and some other thoughts that came during the evening's teachings as well. I went home with a little pain but by morning it was all gone . . . until we headed out to the second evening's session! The pain returned with a vengeance and grew to the point where I couldn't sit still during the worship. In fact, I never made it to any of the evening's scheduled events, because I ended up in a private room with someone praying for me. The pain was so bad at this point I couldn't sit still for a moment and couldn't find a single position where it was bearable.
But as we prayed we began dealing with anger that had built up within me all during my life. The more we dealt with that anger, the less my stomach hurt. My guess was- we were on to something! Finally, I was directed to go to the "soaking room," where people could just sit in God's presence and soak him in. I was instructed to tell God everything I was angry about and it focused on my anger at him.
I won't detail everything I spewed out at him, but I will say that when I finished, all the pain was gone and it hasn't come back since. Saturday, we finished up the issue and when we were through praying, I felt "lighter" than I have ever been! Issues that had been weighing me down for my entire life were gone- for good!
I find it interesting that I have long taught we can get angry at God; that we need to- he can handle it and it helps us express ourselves to God so that we can deal with our pain. But in my own life, I felt like I shouldn't do that. Now I know different- and I mean "heart knowing" as opposed to "mind knowing." Sometimes that makes all the difference.
Saturday, January 21, 2006
The 60 Barrier
In Church Growth philosophy there is a recognized wall that churches run into when they grow to about 200 members. It's called the 200 barrier. This barrier is especially hard to grow through because a group of 200 people is about as large as most people can handle being associated with. In other words, we can only realistically deal with knowing about 200 people.
So when a church grows to around the 200 member mark, it naturally settles down and growth stops. For growth to continue, something needs to change in the structure of that church. In particular, how people (and particularly the pastor) relate to each other. The church needs to move from one single congregation to multiple, connected congregations. The pastor needs to move from being a shepherd to a rancher.
A shepherd handles one group of people, but handles every one individually- all 200! A rancher handles a smaller group, and each person in that group- in turn, handle another group, who handle another group. And so on down to every last person. Everyone is covered and connected personally to another group of persons, but it is not one pastor who is expected to cover everyone.
Admittedly, this is not an easy change to accomplish (for a lot of reasons), but once it happens, the church can grow again and their is no upper limit to their numbers. The largest churches in the world follow a form of the rancher model.
I propose that in The Salvation Army, the 200 barrier is actually the 60 barrier. That, because a Salvation Army officer has much more on his plate than the average pastor who "just" runs a church. Because of this, we have become a denomination of (mostly) small congregations hovering somewhere around the 60 mark. Granted this mark can vary widely because of many reasons in any particular corps, but the concept is a good one.
In order for our congregations of 60 to move beyond this membership wall, we need to be intentional about changing the operation of our congregations. Everyone is not going to know everyone in the room on SonDay's. Not everyone will know the corps officer- personally/closely. S/he will not be expected to visit everyone (or do everything in ministry), rather their "pastor" will be responsible for their pastoral needs and each person will exercise their own spiritual giftedness within their small group.
This is a huge change for people to accomodate- I realize this. But I also realize that if we are going to get beyond our 60 barriers, we can't just keep doing things the same old way and expect different results.
Are you ready for a change? Are you willing to take the steps necessary so that your corps can reach more people for Jesus? It's not going to be easy, but we can do it if we commit.
So when a church grows to around the 200 member mark, it naturally settles down and growth stops. For growth to continue, something needs to change in the structure of that church. In particular, how people (and particularly the pastor) relate to each other. The church needs to move from one single congregation to multiple, connected congregations. The pastor needs to move from being a shepherd to a rancher.
A shepherd handles one group of people, but handles every one individually- all 200! A rancher handles a smaller group, and each person in that group- in turn, handle another group, who handle another group. And so on down to every last person. Everyone is covered and connected personally to another group of persons, but it is not one pastor who is expected to cover everyone.
Admittedly, this is not an easy change to accomplish (for a lot of reasons), but once it happens, the church can grow again and their is no upper limit to their numbers. The largest churches in the world follow a form of the rancher model.
I propose that in The Salvation Army, the 200 barrier is actually the 60 barrier. That, because a Salvation Army officer has much more on his plate than the average pastor who "just" runs a church. Because of this, we have become a denomination of (mostly) small congregations hovering somewhere around the 60 mark. Granted this mark can vary widely because of many reasons in any particular corps, but the concept is a good one.
In order for our congregations of 60 to move beyond this membership wall, we need to be intentional about changing the operation of our congregations. Everyone is not going to know everyone in the room on SonDay's. Not everyone will know the corps officer- personally/closely. S/he will not be expected to visit everyone (or do everything in ministry), rather their "pastor" will be responsible for their pastoral needs and each person will exercise their own spiritual giftedness within their small group.
This is a huge change for people to accomodate- I realize this. But I also realize that if we are going to get beyond our 60 barriers, we can't just keep doing things the same old way and expect different results.
Are you ready for a change? Are you willing to take the steps necessary so that your corps can reach more people for Jesus? It's not going to be easy, but we can do it if we commit.
Friday, January 20, 2006
A Real Good 11 Days Ahead
I just realized this is my fifth trip to Vancouver's DTES (Down Town East Side) where 614 Vancouver & The War College are flourishing. While each of my trips have only been between 3 days and 2 weeks, I have still developed a connection to the community.
Yesterday I walked across town to the Crosswalk (where classes are held). On the way, I stopped by the cafe where I usually get a hot chocolate and the same girl with purple hair greeted me and took my order. I dropped into a couple of Pawn Shops and chatted with a guy about The Salvation Army, Maine weather and where he keeps the DVDs. I nodded to people as I walked through alleys that should set your teeth on edge, but actually feel quite comfortable to me. I never feel afraid, rather safe, knowing God is powerfully working in this area. Lots of memories flood my mind as I see images of Jenn, Steve, Nick, Rob, Heather and many other friends and students talking and helping people here.
I quietly slipped into the class in progress (preaching) and looked at the new class of students. I poked Olivia from behind and said hi. This is the first time I won't be getting to know the students before I start my class week. I always learned all their names, but there's many more this year. So we'll see how differently things play out this time!
I went over to the War Room and chatted with Xander and Jenni. That room has such a powerful sense of God's presence and peace! Then I hung out at Steve & Danielle's until Tara and I headed to our first session of our Listening Prayer Conference. Brad Jersak is not there (rats!), but he's not the reason I registered anyway. I want to learn more about hearing God's voice and will do whatever it takes to grow in this area. Discerning God's voice clearly is one of my life goals.
As the conference leaders taught, I heard God speaking to me about issues he wants to deal with in my life. I have a private prayer session scheduled sometime during the conference and I am expecting God to do some major clean up of unwanted junk hidden deep down and away from conscious view. I can hardly wait! Then next week, I'll pray with as many students who can fit into the schedule while I'm here.
This is going to be a real good 11 days!
Yesterday I walked across town to the Crosswalk (where classes are held). On the way, I stopped by the cafe where I usually get a hot chocolate and the same girl with purple hair greeted me and took my order. I dropped into a couple of Pawn Shops and chatted with a guy about The Salvation Army, Maine weather and where he keeps the DVDs. I nodded to people as I walked through alleys that should set your teeth on edge, but actually feel quite comfortable to me. I never feel afraid, rather safe, knowing God is powerfully working in this area. Lots of memories flood my mind as I see images of Jenn, Steve, Nick, Rob, Heather and many other friends and students talking and helping people here.
I quietly slipped into the class in progress (preaching) and looked at the new class of students. I poked Olivia from behind and said hi. This is the first time I won't be getting to know the students before I start my class week. I always learned all their names, but there's many more this year. So we'll see how differently things play out this time!
I went over to the War Room and chatted with Xander and Jenni. That room has such a powerful sense of God's presence and peace! Then I hung out at Steve & Danielle's until Tara and I headed to our first session of our Listening Prayer Conference. Brad Jersak is not there (rats!), but he's not the reason I registered anyway. I want to learn more about hearing God's voice and will do whatever it takes to grow in this area. Discerning God's voice clearly is one of my life goals.
As the conference leaders taught, I heard God speaking to me about issues he wants to deal with in my life. I have a private prayer session scheduled sometime during the conference and I am expecting God to do some major clean up of unwanted junk hidden deep down and away from conscious view. I can hardly wait! Then next week, I'll pray with as many students who can fit into the schedule while I'm here.
This is going to be a real good 11 days!
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Some Water, Some Plant . . .
I was recently questioned about the lack of numerical growth in our last couple of corps. The gist of the conversation was something like this: "Finances do well, people grow spiritually, there is a good emphasis on learning and worship, but the numbers basically remain the same. You're successful in almost every area save one. With your emphasis on 'church growth theology,' why can't you seem to grow corps?"
My first reaction was to stand up for ourselves and state that in both our last corps and current, there has been a large number of people who left during our tenure (for various reasons like death, moving away, conviction, etc), yet our numbers remain(ed) the same. If I were to graph those additions, we'd see a healthy percentage of growth. And the people added were solid Salvationists involved in the war, not dropping like flies when the going gets tough. I believe to remain the same while going through a season of pruning is a real blessing of God!
But as I was "defending" myself, it dawned on me that it was unnecessary. God always takes the point in our defense- if we let him. We can trust him to bring us through anything with a good reputation (as if our reputation matters).
And what about the gifts God has granted The Body? Everyone is not gifted to do everything. Some water, some plant, others get the result of those things and witness great growth.
I agonize over the lack of obvious growth in our appointments (and the lost in general). I want to see more people come into the saving knowledge of Jesus, Redeemer. But my role is to build a wide, solid foundation that will weather the tests of time and The Enemy. My purpose is to help others develop their ministries so that we can all- together- get about the business of winning the world. I'm not going to do it all by myself. God didn't design me that way.
I'm happy in the role God has given me. how about you?
My first reaction was to stand up for ourselves and state that in both our last corps and current, there has been a large number of people who left during our tenure (for various reasons like death, moving away, conviction, etc), yet our numbers remain(ed) the same. If I were to graph those additions, we'd see a healthy percentage of growth. And the people added were solid Salvationists involved in the war, not dropping like flies when the going gets tough. I believe to remain the same while going through a season of pruning is a real blessing of God!
But as I was "defending" myself, it dawned on me that it was unnecessary. God always takes the point in our defense- if we let him. We can trust him to bring us through anything with a good reputation (as if our reputation matters).
And what about the gifts God has granted The Body? Everyone is not gifted to do everything. Some water, some plant, others get the result of those things and witness great growth.
I agonize over the lack of obvious growth in our appointments (and the lost in general). I want to see more people come into the saving knowledge of Jesus, Redeemer. But my role is to build a wide, solid foundation that will weather the tests of time and The Enemy. My purpose is to help others develop their ministries so that we can all- together- get about the business of winning the world. I'm not going to do it all by myself. God didn't design me that way.
I'm happy in the role God has given me. how about you?
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Rise Above it
After a crazy long day of travel, I arrived in Vancouver about 1/2 hour ahead of my original schedule. I would have made it a lot earlier, if one of the planes didn't have a necessary repair which took about 2 hours.
What a messy day to travel! I got rained on getting in and off the first plane. The others were covered and the day got better as I got further from the eastern US, where weather patterns were bad everywhere. But as I took off from Bangor, I was reminded visually of a powerful truth:
It was cold, dark, windy and rainy. The storm was making everyone cower on the ground as we tried to protect outselves from the depressing mess. But as the plane rose up through the cloud layers, it got brighter until we broke through it all into the warm, dry, comforting brightness of the sun.
In those moments, God reminded me yet again of his faithfulness. No matter what the circumstances are "on the ground" under the darkness of the enemy's attacks, all you need to do is rise above it all into the brightness of God's never-failing presence.
Don't let yourself be fooled by the enemy's tactics. What he dumps on you, is not the truth. Rise above it and you will see that God has not forsaken you; it is never as bad as it seems. Take your stand against him and he will flee, leaving you- still standing and even more empowered by God's hand on your life.
What a messy day to travel! I got rained on getting in and off the first plane. The others were covered and the day got better as I got further from the eastern US, where weather patterns were bad everywhere. But as I took off from Bangor, I was reminded visually of a powerful truth:
It was cold, dark, windy and rainy. The storm was making everyone cower on the ground as we tried to protect outselves from the depressing mess. But as the plane rose up through the cloud layers, it got brighter until we broke through it all into the warm, dry, comforting brightness of the sun.
In those moments, God reminded me yet again of his faithfulness. No matter what the circumstances are "on the ground" under the darkness of the enemy's attacks, all you need to do is rise above it all into the brightness of God's never-failing presence.
Don't let yourself be fooled by the enemy's tactics. What he dumps on you, is not the truth. Rise above it and you will see that God has not forsaken you; it is never as bad as it seems. Take your stand against him and he will flee, leaving you- still standing and even more empowered by God's hand on your life.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Warning! LONG Travel Day Ahead!
Right now I should be packing, but as I began to put things together, I ended up by the computer and well, there ya go- it's blog time!
Tomorrow's a L - O - N - G travel day. Fifteen hours from first airport to final airport- not including travel time to and from. To save a buck or two, I decided to fly with 3 layovers. I've never been to Phoenix or Las Vegas (2 of my stops), but I probably won't get to see much as I'm only in each for about an hour. Let's hope the weather in Bangor cooperates, because we're supposed to have a bit of a storm about the time I'm scheduled to be flying to Philadelphia. As you can see, your prayers would be appropriate even to just get me started!
I am reminded of a story I heard from a friend who told me she used to be afraid of flying. When she'd get on the plane, she would hunker down and pray like crazy that God would take care of her and the plane. One day as she was praying hard, the man next to her asked her what she was doing.
"I'm a Christian and I'm praying hard for our safety," she replied.
The man said: "I'm a Christian too, but I just shoot a quick prayer up to God and thank him for always knowing where I am."
They had a wonderful conversation after that and my friend stopped praying like crazy every time she flew, finally understanding God always knows where we are and what's going on.
Good thing he does and we can trust him with our safety wherever we are and whatever we're doing.
Tomorrow's a L - O - N - G travel day. Fifteen hours from first airport to final airport- not including travel time to and from. To save a buck or two, I decided to fly with 3 layovers. I've never been to Phoenix or Las Vegas (2 of my stops), but I probably won't get to see much as I'm only in each for about an hour. Let's hope the weather in Bangor cooperates, because we're supposed to have a bit of a storm about the time I'm scheduled to be flying to Philadelphia. As you can see, your prayers would be appropriate even to just get me started!
I am reminded of a story I heard from a friend who told me she used to be afraid of flying. When she'd get on the plane, she would hunker down and pray like crazy that God would take care of her and the plane. One day as she was praying hard, the man next to her asked her what she was doing.
"I'm a Christian and I'm praying hard for our safety," she replied.
The man said: "I'm a Christian too, but I just shoot a quick prayer up to God and thank him for always knowing where I am."
They had a wonderful conversation after that and my friend stopped praying like crazy every time she flew, finally understanding God always knows where we are and what's going on.
Good thing he does and we can trust him with our safety wherever we are and whatever we're doing.
Monday, January 16, 2006
TWC- Take 3
Wednesday I head out to Vancouver, Canada for my third teaching session at The War College (sounds of thunderous applause inserted here)! Things will certainly be different, now that Jenn isn't there. But I have accumulated plenty of wonderful friends who are still around the area, so I'll have no problem making connections during the 2 seconds of free time I have after teaching and prayer sessions (Steve Court works you HARD)! Ah, but I love it and am so looking forward to my trip.
There's a whole new class this year to get to know. Every other year, I made sure I learned everyone's name, but this year's group is so large, I don't know how I'm going to manage. It will also be good to re-connect with last year's students who are involved in Phase 2 work nearby.
Before my teaching starts, I get to attend a conference with Brad Jersak! I am SO looking forward to this! Tara will be going with me and maybe Danielle. It should be a powerful time for all- especially since they schedule every person in attendance with personal prayer ministry time. I feel like I can really use it right about now. It's always great to go for ministry and also get ministered to- although that certainly happens with all my involvement at The War College.
I would appreciate your prayer for my ministry while there. I'll keep you posted.
There's a whole new class this year to get to know. Every other year, I made sure I learned everyone's name, but this year's group is so large, I don't know how I'm going to manage. It will also be good to re-connect with last year's students who are involved in Phase 2 work nearby.
Before my teaching starts, I get to attend a conference with Brad Jersak! I am SO looking forward to this! Tara will be going with me and maybe Danielle. It should be a powerful time for all- especially since they schedule every person in attendance with personal prayer ministry time. I feel like I can really use it right about now. It's always great to go for ministry and also get ministered to- although that certainly happens with all my involvement at The War College.
I would appreciate your prayer for my ministry while there. I'll keep you posted.
Sunday, January 15, 2006
Five Still Left!
Today our SonDay service centered around sponsoring children. I had intended to have information from World Vision as well as TSA materials available, but World Vision did not get their stuff to me in time (ordered 2 weeks ago). So our entire presentation dealt with sponsoring children at Salvation Army run projects around the world. For only $20 a month, you can sponsor a child in almost any part of the world you can imagine.
We had pictures, names and information on 13 children all waiting to be sponsored. We showed pictures and names on the screen and shared some personal information about many of the children. When all was said and done, the wonderful people of Bangor had agreed to sponsor 8 of the 13 (Our Men's Club even agreed to sponsor a young man)! And that with a bad weather day with heavy snow and ice (much lower attendance than we had hoped).
Earlier, when opening the materials, I was drawn to Daniele. Knowing we already sponsor a child (Miriam, in Mexico), I made Daniele (from Brazil) available to be sponsored with the rest of the children while secretly hoping no one would choose her, so we could do so anyway. At the end of the service, one last person was hovering over the pictures to make their choice. I could no longer hold my breath, so I quietly slid Daniele's picture under them all, so she was not seen. Whew! She was still available (heh, heh), so Debbie & I agreed to take Daniele!
Isn't she just adorable?
Are you sponsoring a child? There are so many who need your help. We still have 5 children available for sponsorship. I hope we can get five more people (or groups) to step up to the plate and help these kids. Twenty bucks is so little, yet it does so much when put to this incredible use.
- - -
You'll also want to check out Alberta's blog (one of our teens) about her choice to be a sponsor. She got together with another of our teens, Cylie (or is that Cindy?) to sponsor Gabriela. You GO girls! You're both awesome!
All Day I Dream About Summer
We had pictures, names and information on 13 children all waiting to be sponsored. We showed pictures and names on the screen and shared some personal information about many of the children. When all was said and done, the wonderful people of Bangor had agreed to sponsor 8 of the 13 (Our Men's Club even agreed to sponsor a young man)! And that with a bad weather day with heavy snow and ice (much lower attendance than we had hoped).
Earlier, when opening the materials, I was drawn to Daniele. Knowing we already sponsor a child (Miriam, in Mexico), I made Daniele (from Brazil) available to be sponsored with the rest of the children while secretly hoping no one would choose her, so we could do so anyway. At the end of the service, one last person was hovering over the pictures to make their choice. I could no longer hold my breath, so I quietly slid Daniele's picture under them all, so she was not seen. Whew! She was still available (heh, heh), so Debbie & I agreed to take Daniele!
Isn't she just adorable?Are you sponsoring a child? There are so many who need your help. We still have 5 children available for sponsorship. I hope we can get five more people (or groups) to step up to the plate and help these kids. Twenty bucks is so little, yet it does so much when put to this incredible use.
- - -
You'll also want to check out Alberta's blog (one of our teens) about her choice to be a sponsor. She got together with another of our teens, Cylie (or is that Cindy?) to sponsor Gabriela. You GO girls! You're both awesome!
All Day I Dream About Summer
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Our Special Project
For the Christmas season at our corps, we did a special Lord's Dollar Project ("The Lord's Dollar" is a special offering we collect monthly for missions). In this case, we collected money every SonDay during our services throughout November and December. The intent was to use the collected funds to purchase items from a World Vision Gift Catalog. The items provide a person, a family or even a community with much needed survival materials. For instance, $75 provides a goat; $135 a treadle pump; $400 a camel, etc.
And now the drum roll please . . . We raised $1,350! We are totally excited!
With these funds, we purchased 2 Oxen with a Plow,
A Cow,
And a Sewing Machine.
World Vision provides their catalog online, so if you'd like to take a look around it, please go to www.worldvision.org.
You can also sponsor a child you choose by picture for only $30 a month. We've been sponsoring Miriam in Mexico for the last few years and it has been fun watching her grow (via pictures).
This SonDay, we are going to have a special "adopt a child" day and encourage individuals to take this wonderful opportunity.
Sponsoring children is a great way to get involved in missions work. It really puts a personal touch to your self-denial dollars. The Salvation Army also provides opportunities to sponsor. Why not get involved today?
And now the drum roll please . . . We raised $1,350! We are totally excited!
With these funds, we purchased 2 Oxen with a Plow,
A Cow,
And a Sewing Machine.
World Vision provides their catalog online, so if you'd like to take a look around it, please go to www.worldvision.org.
You can also sponsor a child you choose by picture for only $30 a month. We've been sponsoring Miriam in Mexico for the last few years and it has been fun watching her grow (via pictures).
This SonDay, we are going to have a special "adopt a child" day and encourage individuals to take this wonderful opportunity.
Sponsoring children is a great way to get involved in missions work. It really puts a personal touch to your self-denial dollars. The Salvation Army also provides opportunities to sponsor. Why not get involved today?
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Stats or Status?
First, thank-you to all who offered their thoughts on my last blog's question. It seems if I want more responses, I just have to stop blogging until you write them! I am amazed at how many people tell me they read my blog, but never actually respond. I guess that's like talk radio- many listen only a few get interactive. I encourage you to give it a shot!
Well, I'm still working through a lot of things- some of them frustrating, so I don't want to necessarily blog openly about them. And because some of them concern real, live people who might just read this blog (don't insert yourself here, unless you're paranoid, in which case you probably worry that all my blogs are about you anyway!), this is certainly not the place to air them. Hence my lack of daily blogging. The last thing I want to do is fill this blog full of complaints and grousing. Yes, I too go through those rough times now and then. I'm in a long, hard one right now!
I was challenged by many of your responses:
1) Yes, in some ways discipling and getting people saved is the same thing, but not really where it matters. I can get someone saved without ever discipling them or even ever seeing them again. Getting someone saved is the initial work; discipling them is what should happen from then on, as they are trained in what being a Christian is and does. That's where the rubber meets the road. Discipling is what Jesus told us to do- "Go and make disciples of all nations (ethnos; races)." - Matthew 28:19. His concern is that we reproduce ourselves into reproducing disciples who continue the process of reproduction. And so on, and so on. Discipling goes on and on . . . Getting someone saved has a period at the end of the process.
2) Loving people no matter what. Sounds simple, but it's really full of deep truth. IF you really love someone, their best interests are at the heart of your relationship. In order to fulfill their best interests, you will be teaching and/or modeling so that they can grow and use their gifts in/for the body. If we had more true love in our midst, we'd not need to be concerned with "what is the most important thing."
3) One person can't do it alone. Ah, right up my alley! We all need each other- get busy using your gifts! We are not all programmed to do the same thing. Therefore, we cannot be expected to do it all. Nor should we all be expected to get the same results. We should be focusing on what we do well and those things in which God gives us results.
4) Being more concerned with stats than with status of people's souls. Now THAT seemed to hit the target for me! When the call is to "get more people saved" because our stats are down, the result is not what we expect. When our focus is the wrong place (numbers), we can too easily overlook the people behind those numbers. And Christianity is all about relationship with those people- not the numbers. If we focus on the right things, our numbers will grow . . . in the right time.
There is a time for all things. We cannot expect to grow all the time. There is a time to pare back, to prune or our plant gets unwieldy and wild. Pruning actually produces more and better fruit over the long haul. And a much better plant. The vintner who refuses to trim his vines will eventually destroy his whole vineyard.
If our foundation is crooked, what we built on it will never be straight or sturdy. It always takes longer to fix the foundation than to just start all over again. But sometimes starting all over again is just not an option- you've got to fix the foundation. And that takes time. Numbers will have to be tabled for awhile, while you repair cracked bricks, replace others and just plain remove those that don't belong in the place they've ended up. Through it all, God guides, because it's not up to us to sort all these things out.
What's more important? I say discipling, because it concerns itself with the people, not just the numbers; the status instead of the stats. In the long run, if discipling is the focus it will produce more salvations. Conversely, in the long run, if salvations are the focus it will probably not produce disciples and the process will end.
Is that what's happened to our Army?
Well, I'm still working through a lot of things- some of them frustrating, so I don't want to necessarily blog openly about them. And because some of them concern real, live people who might just read this blog (don't insert yourself here, unless you're paranoid, in which case you probably worry that all my blogs are about you anyway!), this is certainly not the place to air them. Hence my lack of daily blogging. The last thing I want to do is fill this blog full of complaints and grousing. Yes, I too go through those rough times now and then. I'm in a long, hard one right now!
I was challenged by many of your responses:
1) Yes, in some ways discipling and getting people saved is the same thing, but not really where it matters. I can get someone saved without ever discipling them or even ever seeing them again. Getting someone saved is the initial work; discipling them is what should happen from then on, as they are trained in what being a Christian is and does. That's where the rubber meets the road. Discipling is what Jesus told us to do- "Go and make disciples of all nations (ethnos; races)." - Matthew 28:19. His concern is that we reproduce ourselves into reproducing disciples who continue the process of reproduction. And so on, and so on. Discipling goes on and on . . . Getting someone saved has a period at the end of the process.
2) Loving people no matter what. Sounds simple, but it's really full of deep truth. IF you really love someone, their best interests are at the heart of your relationship. In order to fulfill their best interests, you will be teaching and/or modeling so that they can grow and use their gifts in/for the body. If we had more true love in our midst, we'd not need to be concerned with "what is the most important thing."
3) One person can't do it alone. Ah, right up my alley! We all need each other- get busy using your gifts! We are not all programmed to do the same thing. Therefore, we cannot be expected to do it all. Nor should we all be expected to get the same results. We should be focusing on what we do well and those things in which God gives us results.
4) Being more concerned with stats than with status of people's souls. Now THAT seemed to hit the target for me! When the call is to "get more people saved" because our stats are down, the result is not what we expect. When our focus is the wrong place (numbers), we can too easily overlook the people behind those numbers. And Christianity is all about relationship with those people- not the numbers. If we focus on the right things, our numbers will grow . . . in the right time.
There is a time for all things. We cannot expect to grow all the time. There is a time to pare back, to prune or our plant gets unwieldy and wild. Pruning actually produces more and better fruit over the long haul. And a much better plant. The vintner who refuses to trim his vines will eventually destroy his whole vineyard.
If our foundation is crooked, what we built on it will never be straight or sturdy. It always takes longer to fix the foundation than to just start all over again. But sometimes starting all over again is just not an option- you've got to fix the foundation. And that takes time. Numbers will have to be tabled for awhile, while you repair cracked bricks, replace others and just plain remove those that don't belong in the place they've ended up. Through it all, God guides, because it's not up to us to sort all these things out.
What's more important? I say discipling, because it concerns itself with the people, not just the numbers; the status instead of the stats. In the long run, if discipling is the focus it will produce more salvations. Conversely, in the long run, if salvations are the focus it will probably not produce disciples and the process will end.
Is that what's happened to our Army?
Friday, December 23, 2005
Which is More Important?
I've got a question I would like a little help working through. My guess is there are plenty of you out there willing to give me your two cents (or more!) in my quest.
Which is more important? And why do you think so?
1) Getting people saved.
2) Training the saved to grow and get people saved.
Maybe I'll blog some of my thoughts once I get some input.
Which is more important? And why do you think so?
1) Getting people saved.
2) Training the saved to grow and get people saved.
Maybe I'll blog some of my thoughts once I get some input.
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Booth-Tucker Institute 2006
If any of you are familiar with The War College* in Vancouver, Canada, then you will be interested to know that for those of us who can't possibly take a year out of our lives to attend, CAN attend Booth-Tucker Institute (BTI). Click this link to get to the web page and learn about it. It still lists the 2005 dates, but I'm sure they will be updating things soon!
The new session will take place June 23-30, 2006. I understand there will be all kinds of good stuff happening this year to help you better win the world for Jesus, so mark your calendars now and plan to attend.
Debbie attended the inaugural session in 2004. I am a member of the graduating class of '05. Let me tell you, this experience is life-changing!
- - -
*The War College is a one year incarnational ministry training program that can best be explained as Salvation Army boot camp! The intent is to get soldiers back to their Army roots and get busy with our mission of winning the world for Jesus. Their mission to "Recruit, Train and Deploy" is working. They are sending dedicated men and women out on the battle field that are making a difference all over the world.
The new session will take place June 23-30, 2006. I understand there will be all kinds of good stuff happening this year to help you better win the world for Jesus, so mark your calendars now and plan to attend.
Debbie attended the inaugural session in 2004. I am a member of the graduating class of '05. Let me tell you, this experience is life-changing!
- - -
*The War College is a one year incarnational ministry training program that can best be explained as Salvation Army boot camp! The intent is to get soldiers back to their Army roots and get busy with our mission of winning the world for Jesus. Their mission to "Recruit, Train and Deploy" is working. They are sending dedicated men and women out on the battle field that are making a difference all over the world.
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Diary of a Snow Shoveler
You've got to click on my title above to go to a web page that explains what it's like to live in Maine.
They HAD to create this after watching me my first year here.
They HAD to create this after watching me my first year here.
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
You Never Know . . .
Look around you right now. Not at the room you find yourself in- I'm talking about the people you find yourself surrounded by. I think, too often, we take them for granted.
I am told we should take the time to stop and smell the roses. How about stop and take the time to appreciate the people who make your life a pleasure? Why is it we always appreciate people after they're gone?
You never know how much you appreciate someone until they're gone and your situation changes for lack of their presence and input.
Bless Yahweh for those people he's put in your reach. In fact, why not reach out to them while they're still there and tell them how much you appreciate them . . . before it's too late and you regret taking them for granted?
I am told we should take the time to stop and smell the roses. How about stop and take the time to appreciate the people who make your life a pleasure? Why is it we always appreciate people after they're gone?
You never know how much you appreciate someone until they're gone and your situation changes for lack of their presence and input.
Bless Yahweh for those people he's put in your reach. In fact, why not reach out to them while they're still there and tell them how much you appreciate them . . . before it's too late and you regret taking them for granted?
Sunday, December 18, 2005
Every Knee Will Bow
God raised Jesus up to the heights of heaven and gave him a name that is above every other name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. -
EVERY Knee will bow! When was last time you bowed before Jesus?
Contrary to what some World Religions teach, the Jesus of Christianity is more than just a good man. He is God. We worship him as God and marvel in his awesome sacrifice that made it possible for us to be reconciled to God without suffering as he did- for our sins.
He is God; the King of kings; creator, preserver, governor of all things. He is above all. He is almighty; he is magnificent; he is Lord of all.
He is the ONLY proper object of worship. There are no ifs, ands or buts- whether people believe that and worship him or not, one day, EVERY knee will bow before Jesus and acknowledge him as all of these things- and more!
On that day he will rise above all thoughts, all ideas, all theologies and he will stand high above everything and everyone to receive the honors he alone deserves- EVERY one will see the truth; who he is-
and in that moment, EVERY knee will bow.
When was the last time you bowed before Jesus? Have you EVER bowed before Jesus?
Sooner or later EVERY Knee Will Bow!
Years ago when Jesus was just a baby, some kings realized the truth. They traveled far and offered valuable gifts as they knelt before this little child. They knew who they were and they knew who he was. They did the only thing they could- they knelt- in submission- and worshiped.
Have you ever bowed in submission before Jesus?
Some Bow Before Santa:
Some Bow Before Humankind:
Some Bow Before Jesus:
On that day, they will bow as willingly as they do now, but they will see the truth even more clearly as EVERY knee around them will bow as well.
Kings. Kings! Kings bowed before Jesus, even when he was just a little baby!
Will you bow willingly? Or will you bow under the pressure of that moment of truth?
When was the last time you bowed before Jesus? Have you ever?
Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before Yahweh our maker, for he is our God. We are the people he watches over, the sheep under his care. Oh, that you would listen to his voice today! - Psalm 95:6-7
EVERY Knee will bow! When was last time you bowed before Jesus?
Contrary to what some World Religions teach, the Jesus of Christianity is more than just a good man. He is God. We worship him as God and marvel in his awesome sacrifice that made it possible for us to be reconciled to God without suffering as he did- for our sins.
He is God; the King of kings; creator, preserver, governor of all things. He is above all. He is almighty; he is magnificent; he is Lord of all.
He is the ONLY proper object of worship. There are no ifs, ands or buts- whether people believe that and worship him or not, one day, EVERY knee will bow before Jesus and acknowledge him as all of these things- and more!
On that day he will rise above all thoughts, all ideas, all theologies and he will stand high above everything and everyone to receive the honors he alone deserves- EVERY one will see the truth; who he is-
and in that moment, EVERY knee will bow.
When was the last time you bowed before Jesus? Have you EVER bowed before Jesus?
Sooner or later EVERY Knee Will Bow!
Years ago when Jesus was just a baby, some kings realized the truth. They traveled far and offered valuable gifts as they knelt before this little child. They knew who they were and they knew who he was. They did the only thing they could- they knelt- in submission- and worshiped.
Have you ever bowed in submission before Jesus?
Some Bow Before Santa:
O great gift-giver: I worship you so that I can get everything I want! Gimme, gimme, gimme! Here’s my list, make sure I get it all!This may satisfy them for now, but on that great day, they will bow before a different giver and see the truth- and all the folly of being selfish. They will bow unwillingly, but they will bow. EVERY knee will bow.
Some Bow Before Humankind:
O great spirit of humanity: I worship you so that I can be master of all I survey! I am in control; I am complete w/in myself; I can do anything I put my mind to. I will be the captain of my own destiny!This may satisfy them for now, but on that great day they will bow before a different master and see the truth- and all the folly of being self-absorbed. They will bow unwillingly, perhaps even struggling to the last in bending their knee to another, but they will bow. EVERY knee will bow.
Some Bow Before Jesus:
O great King of kings: I know who you are and I worship you because I also know my own insignificance. I know my sins and I see them as opposed to your purity and perfection. I am undone in your presence; I worship you because you know who I am and still love me; still stoop down to lift me up.These will never stop praising Jesus; they will never feel they have worshiped enough for all of Jesus’ goodness and love. Their humility will be a sweet fragrance to God, instinctively drawing him to them for another whiff.
On that day, they will bow as willingly as they do now, but they will see the truth even more clearly as EVERY knee around them will bow as well.
Kings. Kings! Kings bowed before Jesus, even when he was just a little baby!
Will you bow willingly? Or will you bow under the pressure of that moment of truth?
When was the last time you bowed before Jesus? Have you ever?
Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before Yahweh our maker, for he is our God. We are the people he watches over, the sheep under his care. Oh, that you would listen to his voice today! - Psalm 95:6-7
Thursday, December 15, 2005
Scrooge is Alive and Well . . .
I'm sitting here irritated and a bit confused. I just had a lady come into my office and complain because the checkout clerk at our Family Store asked if she would like to donate a dollar to buy a Paper Kettle. Apparently, she has recently given toys and often shops at our store, so she thought it was too much to ask for another buck. This actually bothered her enough to go out of her way to travel to our other office to bring this complaint to "the Captain."
Well, I tried to be understanding, but if you've read any of my blogs and/or listened to my sermons lately, you'll know I was quite irritated at her irritation! I had little sympathy. No, strike that- I had no sympathy! I was nice and thanked her for her other help, but inside I wanted to get up and shout at her:
Well, I tried to be understanding, but if you've read any of my blogs and/or listened to my sermons lately, you'll know I was quite irritated at her irritation! I had little sympathy. No, strike that- I had no sympathy! I was nice and thanked her for her other help, but inside I wanted to get up and shout at her:
"Are you kidding?! You're angry because we asked you for a buck? Let me tell you about some people who wish they had a buck to give!"I guess Scrooge is alive and well and living too close for my comfort. {sigh}
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Gimme, Gimme, Gimme!
So if it's better to give than to receive, why do we seem to be so concerned about what we want for Christmas?
When I talk with the kids at my corps about Christmas, they are only too willing to tell me what they want; what they are expecting their parents to give them. Shoot, many adults are the same way. I guess we've done a great job at teaching them? I can understand why the stores want to promote this way of thinking, but why we let them direct us there (as if with blinders on) is questionable at best.
My Dad has this great button he wears during the Christmas season: "Christmas is all about giving. Gimme, gimme, gimme!" Alvin the Chipmunk said he wanted a big empty box for Christmas. When Dave asked him why, he said: "So you can fill it with all kinds of toys for me!"
What can we do to at least start the process of getting out from under this consumerism? Any ideas?
Debbie & I have stopped giving each other gifts at Christmas. I mean it seems silly to ask someone who shares your bank account what they want, then go buy it when they could just as easily buy it themselves any time they want. And why buy something for someone they wouldn't buy for themselves? If they wouldn't buy it, why should I? Is giving someone something supposed to be proof of your love? I can think of many better ways.
And why should people go in debt each Christmas season?
At our corps we have decided to forgo giving Christmas presents to our Teens and Adults. Instead, we are raising money to send to the needy in some other part of the world through World Vision (a special offering every SonDay). As of right now, we have raised enough to buy a camel and a sewing machine! We're shooting for "The Whole Barnyard of Animals" package. I wonder if, by still giving our corps kids presents we are encouraging them into the consumerism I'm questioning here?
What do I want for Christmas? Nothing that you could buy for me. I want a quiet (rowdy?) Christmas SonDay Service (Holiness Meeting!) with my corps family. I'm praying ALL of them will come join in the celebration!
When I talk with the kids at my corps about Christmas, they are only too willing to tell me what they want; what they are expecting their parents to give them. Shoot, many adults are the same way. I guess we've done a great job at teaching them? I can understand why the stores want to promote this way of thinking, but why we let them direct us there (as if with blinders on) is questionable at best.
My Dad has this great button he wears during the Christmas season: "Christmas is all about giving. Gimme, gimme, gimme!" Alvin the Chipmunk said he wanted a big empty box for Christmas. When Dave asked him why, he said: "So you can fill it with all kinds of toys for me!"
What can we do to at least start the process of getting out from under this consumerism? Any ideas?
Debbie & I have stopped giving each other gifts at Christmas. I mean it seems silly to ask someone who shares your bank account what they want, then go buy it when they could just as easily buy it themselves any time they want. And why buy something for someone they wouldn't buy for themselves? If they wouldn't buy it, why should I? Is giving someone something supposed to be proof of your love? I can think of many better ways.
And why should people go in debt each Christmas season?
At our corps we have decided to forgo giving Christmas presents to our Teens and Adults. Instead, we are raising money to send to the needy in some other part of the world through World Vision (a special offering every SonDay). As of right now, we have raised enough to buy a camel and a sewing machine! We're shooting for "The Whole Barnyard of Animals" package. I wonder if, by still giving our corps kids presents we are encouraging them into the consumerism I'm questioning here?
What do I want for Christmas? Nothing that you could buy for me. I want a quiet (rowdy?) Christmas SonDay Service (Holiness Meeting!) with my corps family. I'm praying ALL of them will come join in the celebration!
Friday, December 09, 2005
No Church on Christmas?
The "battle" "rages" in the USA over the "Christmas" season. Not only is there a huge backlash from Christians this year regarding the removal of "Christmas" and replacing it with "Holiday," I understand that certain large, very prominent mega-churches in the USA are NOT holding services on Christmas day since it falls on a SonDay.
Mike Gallagher, a radio talk show host, says he's asked these churches why and their primary response was "they can't meet expenses to hold services because not enough people show up when Christmas is on a SonDay." They said they also want to free their ministry staff to spend the day with their families.
Now these churches are holding special services before SonDay- some are holding many special services. But Gallagher and Jerry Falwell (Gallagher's phone interviewee today) feel this is anathama (maybe anathama's a little strong) and can't believe these churches are passing on services just because SonDay falls on a holiday.
As I listened to their conversation, I felt anger at these churches for caving so easily. After all, worship is not something we drop because it is inconvenient. In fact, King David felt sacrifice was an important aspect of worship. But then as I kept thinking about it, I also thought about the fact that worship doesn't have to just happen on SonDay. In fact, if it's the only time it does happen in someone's life, then I question if it is true worship.
Now I'll be at my church on Christmas SonDay (as I always have), but should I think less of those who choose to worship another time that week and stay home that day? What about those who always choose to worship on another day over SonDay? {Shudder to think! Worship on Saturday?!}
I think it's has a lot to do with the culture we've been brought up in. Holding a "church service" is not the most important spiritual aspect of being a Christian each week. Having relationship with the church is. Some accomplish that on SonDay's others work that out throughout the week.
Where will you be on this Christmas SonDay?
Mike Gallagher, a radio talk show host, says he's asked these churches why and their primary response was "they can't meet expenses to hold services because not enough people show up when Christmas is on a SonDay." They said they also want to free their ministry staff to spend the day with their families.
Now these churches are holding special services before SonDay- some are holding many special services. But Gallagher and Jerry Falwell (Gallagher's phone interviewee today) feel this is anathama (maybe anathama's a little strong) and can't believe these churches are passing on services just because SonDay falls on a holiday.
As I listened to their conversation, I felt anger at these churches for caving so easily. After all, worship is not something we drop because it is inconvenient. In fact, King David felt sacrifice was an important aspect of worship. But then as I kept thinking about it, I also thought about the fact that worship doesn't have to just happen on SonDay. In fact, if it's the only time it does happen in someone's life, then I question if it is true worship.
Now I'll be at my church on Christmas SonDay (as I always have), but should I think less of those who choose to worship another time that week and stay home that day? What about those who always choose to worship on another day over SonDay? {Shudder to think! Worship on Saturday?!}
I think it's has a lot to do with the culture we've been brought up in. Holding a "church service" is not the most important spiritual aspect of being a Christian each week. Having relationship with the church is. Some accomplish that on SonDay's others work that out throughout the week.
Where will you be on this Christmas SonDay?
Monday, December 05, 2005
The Jesus Tree
With all the hubbub in the media about taking Christmas out of the season, I think this author has got it right!
May you not forget the reason for the season. May the Christ of Christmas bring you peace even in the midst of outward strife.
Saturday, December 03, 2005
MMCCXX and Maine. Perfect Together!
I've been thinking a lot about MMCCXX and how it would fit into the state of Maine. If you're unsure of what MMCCXX is, click this link to JAC, then at the bottom of that page, select back issue 35. There is an article starting on page 56 that will fill you in.
What I like most about MMCCXX for Maine, is how well it fits our demographics. Maine is mostly made up of small towns- too small, in fact, to support the typical Salvation Army operation of a corps. While we have tried to open new corps (in our division) over the last few years, we have had to back down and close them after years of failure- mostly financial. MMCCXX (we've GOT to come up with a pronounceable title!) is a model for planting Salvation Army presence in communities with NO financial support outside of the workers who take on the ministry!
As I see it, 2-4 people commit to starting MMCCXX in a Maine community. They "open fire" by moving into that community, find a place to stay and jobs. This model is called tent-making, after Paul who worked at making tents to support his ministry. From there, they start making friends and pray and invite their friends to hang out, eat with them and pray with them. How easy can you get?
As their numbers grow, they start cell groups. The cells divide as they get bigger. Before you know it, you've got vital Salvationists covering (infesting?!) a whole new community and it cost The Army nothing. Do you see how this model can work so well in Maine?
I'm convinced! We've got an MMCCXX plant starting right in Bangor as I write. God has provided 2 people to plow the ground (Aurora and Travis) and get things moving. Hopefully, we'll get 2-4 more people to start up in Millinocket next. Then maybe Callais? Ellsworth? Belfast? Before you know it, this Army will be covering Maine (and Northern New England)!
To steal a line from New Jersey- MMCCXX and Maine. Perfect together!
Anyone reading this getting a nudge to move to Millinocket this Fall? Let me know. I'm expecting takers, because I know God is speaking.
What I like most about MMCCXX for Maine, is how well it fits our demographics. Maine is mostly made up of small towns- too small, in fact, to support the typical Salvation Army operation of a corps. While we have tried to open new corps (in our division) over the last few years, we have had to back down and close them after years of failure- mostly financial. MMCCXX (we've GOT to come up with a pronounceable title!) is a model for planting Salvation Army presence in communities with NO financial support outside of the workers who take on the ministry!
As I see it, 2-4 people commit to starting MMCCXX in a Maine community. They "open fire" by moving into that community, find a place to stay and jobs. This model is called tent-making, after Paul who worked at making tents to support his ministry. From there, they start making friends and pray and invite their friends to hang out, eat with them and pray with them. How easy can you get?
As their numbers grow, they start cell groups. The cells divide as they get bigger. Before you know it, you've got vital Salvationists covering (infesting?!) a whole new community and it cost The Army nothing. Do you see how this model can work so well in Maine?
I'm convinced! We've got an MMCCXX plant starting right in Bangor as I write. God has provided 2 people to plow the ground (Aurora and Travis) and get things moving. Hopefully, we'll get 2-4 more people to start up in Millinocket next. Then maybe Callais? Ellsworth? Belfast? Before you know it, this Army will be covering Maine (and Northern New England)!
To steal a line from New Jersey- MMCCXX and Maine. Perfect together!
Anyone reading this getting a nudge to move to Millinocket this Fall? Let me know. I'm expecting takers, because I know God is speaking.
Friday, December 02, 2005
My Bible Marking System
Some years ago I developed a personal method of marking my Bible. I suppose there will be people out there who will just "die" to hear of anyone marking their Bible, but that's their loss. Any book worth studying is worth marking up BIG time to help you learn. In fact anything you can do to help you learn the Bible is certainly well worth it! Not to mention remind you, remember things you learned in the past and just plain help you find things quicker. Is your Bible worth studying?
I use colored marker pens (pencils would do) to underline and a yellow highlighter to . . . highlight {heh}. Here's the key to the colors I use:
Blue - is a promise of God.
Red - is anything bad (a punishment, a complaint, etc.).
Green - is a fact.
Purple - is means something special to me; catches my attention.
Orange - is a command; something we should do.
Brown - is a word of praise to God.
Yellow Highlighter - is for something I REALLY like; want it to jump out at me!
(sorry, I can't do highlighting in this blog, but you get the idea right? Below, I'll make the text BOLD to mean yellow highligher).
I don't necessarily mark everything, but here is a passage to give you an example:
2 Peter 3:8-18
But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.
11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. 13 But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness.
14 So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him. 15 Bear in mind that our Lord's patience means salvation, just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him. 16 He writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction.
17 Therefore, dear friends, since you already know this, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of lawless men and fall from your secure position. 18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
I use colored marker pens (pencils would do) to underline and a yellow highlighter to . . . highlight {heh}. Here's the key to the colors I use:
Blue - is a promise of God.
Red - is anything bad (a punishment, a complaint, etc.).
Green - is a fact.
Purple - is means something special to me; catches my attention.
Orange - is a command; something we should do.
Brown - is a word of praise to God.
Yellow Highlighter - is for something I REALLY like; want it to jump out at me!
(sorry, I can't do highlighting in this blog, but you get the idea right? Below, I'll make the text BOLD to mean yellow highligher).
I don't necessarily mark everything, but here is a passage to give you an example:
2 Peter 3:8-18
But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.
11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. 13 But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness.
14 So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him. 15 Bear in mind that our Lord's patience means salvation, just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him. 16 He writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction.
17 Therefore, dear friends, since you already know this, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of lawless men and fall from your secure position. 18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
This makes for a great way for me to remember things God has given me in past studies. I can quickly find passages in my Bible when looking for a specific thing, because if I'm looking for a promise, I look for something marked in blue. Any different Bible I use could be marked differently, due to different things God gives me when I use that particular Bible.
So that's what I do. Do you have any particular method of marking your Bible? Tell me about it.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Casting Pearls Before Swine
Ouch! That phrase sounds a bit tough, huh? But when we take a closer look, Jesus is not telling us that those people who fight against us are pigs! Rather, he is giving us an example that animals cannot value the things we do and we should not expect them to. Therefore we should always be careful with those things that we value, but we cannot expect others to necessarily have our same values.
Here's a good example I got from a friend today: There is nothing we can do to teach a baby to value a fine antique vase- except show them our value of it as they grow up. If they respect us, over the years they too will learn to value the vase. One day, they may even be entrusted with its safekeeping.
I think the growing up part is important. Kids have little experience in life. The younger they are, the less experience. As they grow up, they have more experiences. Through it all, they learn to value some things and not value other things. What they learn to value depends on their experience.
Those who do not have our experience, will not have our values. We cannot expect them to understand why some things are important to us and others are not. In fact, it often works in reverse as well. What one person values another does not. That's where the saying came from: "One person's trash is another person's treasure."
What I have come to realize is I cannot teach another person to appreciate my spiritual values. I can discuss, argue and/or beat them over the head, but until and unless Holy Spirit gives them individual revelation the best I can do is pray for them. And continue to talk with them in hopes that God will use my mere words to jumpstart the process.
Then I work real hard at not letting them pull me or my values down. But that's the real hard part, huh?
Here's a good example I got from a friend today: There is nothing we can do to teach a baby to value a fine antique vase- except show them our value of it as they grow up. If they respect us, over the years they too will learn to value the vase. One day, they may even be entrusted with its safekeeping.
I think the growing up part is important. Kids have little experience in life. The younger they are, the less experience. As they grow up, they have more experiences. Through it all, they learn to value some things and not value other things. What they learn to value depends on their experience.
Those who do not have our experience, will not have our values. We cannot expect them to understand why some things are important to us and others are not. In fact, it often works in reverse as well. What one person values another does not. That's where the saying came from: "One person's trash is another person's treasure."
What I have come to realize is I cannot teach another person to appreciate my spiritual values. I can discuss, argue and/or beat them over the head, but until and unless Holy Spirit gives them individual revelation the best I can do is pray for them. And continue to talk with them in hopes that God will use my mere words to jumpstart the process.
Then I work real hard at not letting them pull me or my values down. But that's the real hard part, huh?
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Take the AIDS Test
World Vision has an AIDS test available online. If you click my title above, it will take you there. It only takes a few minutes and you could learn a lot.
I must admit, I was surprised by things I didn't know about AIDS. And certainly, this short test doesn't include everything there is to know about AIDS.
Now- what are we going to do about it?
I must admit, I was surprised by things I didn't know about AIDS. And certainly, this short test doesn't include everything there is to know about AIDS.
Now- what are we going to do about it?
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Movements Move!
Leadership Next - Eddie Gibbs
By definition, movements "move" and therefore require leaders who are not stuck and insecure when it comes to change and adaptation.
Harland Cleveland (Nobody In Charge) provides a list of eight attitudes that he believes are indispensable to the management of complexity. They apply equally well to leadership among the people of God.
1) A lively intellectual curiosity; an interest in everything, because everything really is related to everything else and therefore to what we are trying to do, whatever it is.
2) A genuine interest in what other people think and why they think that way- which means you have to be at peace with yourself for a start.
3) A feeling of special responsibility for envisioning a future that's different from a straight-line projection of the present. Trends are not destiny.
4) A hunch that most risks are there not to be avoided but to be taken.
5) A mindset that crises are normal, tensions can be promising and complexity is fun.
6) A realization that paranoia and self-pity are reserved for people who don't want to be leaders.
7) A sense of personal responsibility for the general outcome of your efforts.
8) A quality I call "unwarranted optimism;" the conviction that there must be some more upbeat outcome than would result from adding up all the available expert advice.
The church needs navigators tuned to the voice of God, not map readers. Navigational skills have to be learned on the high seas and in the midst of varying conditions produced by the wind, waves, currents, fogbanks, darkness, storm clouds and perilous rocks.
- - -
My comments:
Movements "move-" Anything alive grows and changes. Anything dead changes not. Today's Army is growing where it is changing and getting better. Our Army is dying where it remains the same it always has been.
3) Trends are not destiny- If it looks like it will go in a straight line it probably won't. I don't know a single story in the Bible where the outcome could have been obviously projected from the current situation.
4) Most risks need to be taken- Hallelujah! Now we're talking! An army is not meant to be a "safe" place. We are at war. A turtle never gets anywhere unless he sticks his neck out. I am a risk taker, but most of my career I have not been allowed to do so. When I have been given that option, I can point to great things God has done through those risks.
5) Crises are normal- "The church is a mess!" We're dealing with people and that alone means things will be unusual at best. Starting from this understanding, we can move through each crisis certain that God has the future in his hands.
6) Self pity- Wouldn't the Enemy love to keep us in this frame of mind? Oh, woe is me!
7) Personal responsibility- with responsibility comes trust. At least it should work that way! If I am given a responsibility, I should be given the trust to follow through to the best of my abilities and then stand on the outcome.
I call this "faith!" God plus a little faith means the outcome is much bigger than any of us could imagine! Why do we ever limit God?
Tuned to the voice of God- It's not about what I want to do- it's about what God wants me to do. How can I know that without listening to his voice? I fear too many leaders in this Army listen to their own voice and believe it must be what God wants. I have often found what God wants scares me; I don't want to take that risk! But I must, if it is in fact, his voice.
This thought provoking blurb was sent to me today (minus my comments) from one of my leaders. It is encouraging to see this coming from that position in today's Army. This is the kind of leader I want to follow and the kind of leader I want to be.
Let's move!
By definition, movements "move" and therefore require leaders who are not stuck and insecure when it comes to change and adaptation.
Harland Cleveland (Nobody In Charge) provides a list of eight attitudes that he believes are indispensable to the management of complexity. They apply equally well to leadership among the people of God.
1) A lively intellectual curiosity; an interest in everything, because everything really is related to everything else and therefore to what we are trying to do, whatever it is.
2) A genuine interest in what other people think and why they think that way- which means you have to be at peace with yourself for a start.
3) A feeling of special responsibility for envisioning a future that's different from a straight-line projection of the present. Trends are not destiny.
4) A hunch that most risks are there not to be avoided but to be taken.
5) A mindset that crises are normal, tensions can be promising and complexity is fun.
6) A realization that paranoia and self-pity are reserved for people who don't want to be leaders.
7) A sense of personal responsibility for the general outcome of your efforts.
8) A quality I call "unwarranted optimism;" the conviction that there must be some more upbeat outcome than would result from adding up all the available expert advice.
The church needs navigators tuned to the voice of God, not map readers. Navigational skills have to be learned on the high seas and in the midst of varying conditions produced by the wind, waves, currents, fogbanks, darkness, storm clouds and perilous rocks.
- - -
My comments:
Movements "move-" Anything alive grows and changes. Anything dead changes not. Today's Army is growing where it is changing and getting better. Our Army is dying where it remains the same it always has been.
3) Trends are not destiny- If it looks like it will go in a straight line it probably won't. I don't know a single story in the Bible where the outcome could have been obviously projected from the current situation.
4) Most risks need to be taken- Hallelujah! Now we're talking! An army is not meant to be a "safe" place. We are at war. A turtle never gets anywhere unless he sticks his neck out. I am a risk taker, but most of my career I have not been allowed to do so. When I have been given that option, I can point to great things God has done through those risks.
5) Crises are normal- "The church is a mess!" We're dealing with people and that alone means things will be unusual at best. Starting from this understanding, we can move through each crisis certain that God has the future in his hands.
6) Self pity- Wouldn't the Enemy love to keep us in this frame of mind? Oh, woe is me!
7) Personal responsibility- with responsibility comes trust. At least it should work that way! If I am given a responsibility, I should be given the trust to follow through to the best of my abilities and then stand on the outcome.
Tuned to the voice of God- It's not about what I want to do- it's about what God wants me to do. How can I know that without listening to his voice? I fear too many leaders in this Army listen to their own voice and believe it must be what God wants. I have often found what God wants scares me; I don't want to take that risk! But I must, if it is in fact, his voice.
This thought provoking blurb was sent to me today (minus my comments) from one of my leaders. It is encouraging to see this coming from that position in today's Army. This is the kind of leader I want to follow and the kind of leader I want to be.
Let's move!
Monday, November 28, 2005
525,600 Minutes
Yup. You guessed it. We saw the movie Rent today. All I knew was it was about some struggling artists and I liked the "theme" song referenced above. Here are my thoughts a few hours after taking it in.
Good music- although I often feel like the melodies in many musicals are a bit jumpy. This was no exception, but the pieces that stood out were excellent- there was some good chording in there. The worst part was that when the instruments got loud, you couldn't hear the words being sung. In a musical, the words are important! The best part was the way all the main character's voices sounded- especially together! Some of the duets were incredible!
As was intentioned by the authors I'm sure, I really liked all the main characters and felt for their experiences throughout the movie. At the end, I felt good, but a bit sad. All in all I liked the movie and the general theme it presented.
What concerned me was the way it presented the homosexual lifestyle. Some of the characters had AIDS, but no one seemed to understand it came from that lifestyle. Now we need to be careful here- I don't hate homosexuals. I love them- as we all should. However, I don't condone their lifestyle. Just the same as I don't condone an addictive lifestyle (drugs or alcohol, etc- and the movie gave a clear message that drugs were bad) but I love those who find themselves caught in its grip.
I think there might be a lot less push for gay rights, if we Christians (in general) judged less and loved more. We are usually too good at condemnation, which is strange when Jesus fought so hard against that very thing. Remember how Jesus treated the woman caught in adultery? We should be so loving.
How do you measure a year in the life? Remember the love. Measure in love.
Good music- although I often feel like the melodies in many musicals are a bit jumpy. This was no exception, but the pieces that stood out were excellent- there was some good chording in there. The worst part was that when the instruments got loud, you couldn't hear the words being sung. In a musical, the words are important! The best part was the way all the main character's voices sounded- especially together! Some of the duets were incredible!
As was intentioned by the authors I'm sure, I really liked all the main characters and felt for their experiences throughout the movie. At the end, I felt good, but a bit sad. All in all I liked the movie and the general theme it presented.
What concerned me was the way it presented the homosexual lifestyle. Some of the characters had AIDS, but no one seemed to understand it came from that lifestyle. Now we need to be careful here- I don't hate homosexuals. I love them- as we all should. However, I don't condone their lifestyle. Just the same as I don't condone an addictive lifestyle (drugs or alcohol, etc- and the movie gave a clear message that drugs were bad) but I love those who find themselves caught in its grip.
I think there might be a lot less push for gay rights, if we Christians (in general) judged less and loved more. We are usually too good at condemnation, which is strange when Jesus fought so hard against that very thing. Remember how Jesus treated the woman caught in adultery? We should be so loving.
How do you measure a year in the life? Remember the love. Measure in love.
Sunday, November 27, 2005
A Passion for . . .
I got my first Christmas card the other day. It was from The Salvation Army- some guy named Major Douglas Burr. You see, I'm on our Bangor Mail Appeal list and this year the company who handles our mailings enclosed a card with a "hand-written" note. We actually give to this appeal, by the way.
It's a nice card, but I noticed the picture on the front was a holiday decorated reindeer. Unlike Walmart, it does mention Christmas, but the spiritual significance of the season is couched in generalities (peace, hope, love); unlike our new National quip (Doing the Most Good), it does mention God (once, in the salutation: "Thank you and God bless").
Too bad we missed this opportunity to offer the Gospel message. Not even a biblical picture (manger, 3 kings, etc).
William Booth once said: "Some men's passion is Art. Some men's passion is Fame. Some men's passion is God. My passion is the Souls of Men." Have we traded our passion for Souls for a passion for Funds? Are we truly doing the most good?
I believe money will come if we keep our focus on the right thing. After all, my God owns the kettles in a thousand malls! I also believe if we stick to our "God" message, more people will give just because of that- even more than will not give if we water our message down, thinking we might offend givers.
While God is not obligated to fund my "grand schemes," he has obligated himself to fund his own plans- especially his plans to reach the entire world for himself. I've seen his faithfulness in the past. I'm living in his faithfulness right now for the vision he's given us in Bangor. He is always faithful!
If we're doing what he wants, we'll never be at a loss for funding. Never.
Saturday, November 26, 2005
Prayer SO Works. Why do we Worry?
For the last few months (with the intensity daily increasing) we've been wrestling with an issue that needed to be dealt with. We've been praying and I must admit- worrying about how it would all play out. I really hate worry and preach against it all the time, but now and then I find myself standing in the middle of a big stinky pile of it (are you getting my imagery?). Yeah, it happens.
So the time finally came to confront the issue and as nervous as I was, it worked out so simply I was amazed. So I sit here now contemplating why I worried when I prayed. I mean, if prayer works (and I believe it does), why can't I just trust God to answer and start looking forward to the creative way he is going to bring it to conclusion? Imagine going into a tough situation excited to see what God is going to do this time!
Sounds like a plan. Who's with me?
So the time finally came to confront the issue and as nervous as I was, it worked out so simply I was amazed. So I sit here now contemplating why I worried when I prayed. I mean, if prayer works (and I believe it does), why can't I just trust God to answer and start looking forward to the creative way he is going to bring it to conclusion? Imagine going into a tough situation excited to see what God is going to do this time!
Sounds like a plan. Who's with me?
Friday, November 25, 2005
Silent Night?
Heading to put kettles out on "black Friday" somewhere in Pennsylvania.Must be nice. No traffic.
I just got back from taking my morning share of our kettle workers out, here in Bangor. The traffic wasn't too bad, because I've learned the short cuts to get around all the busy streets! It might look like my trip would be longer on a map, but distance is not my concern when everyone from 2 hours away has been shopping since 5:00 AM this morning! Anything for a deal, right?
One of the things I have liked about being in Maine these last 5 years is the lack of traffic. O I hear people complain every now and then: "Could you believe the traffic out on such-n-such street this morning?" But I've come to understand that means there were 6 extra cars added to the other 6. Hmm, I can still remember being stuck in a stand-still traffic jam at 2:00 AM on the Long Island Expressway once. "Traffic" is a relative term!
As each new Christmas season comes crashing down around me and I am tempted to be drawn into the hectic rush that commercialism has made it, I always go back to the words: "Peace on earth, good will to man." Where did we misplace the "Silent Night?" Aauugghh!! Christmas was not meant to be hectic!
And when it comes to de-peacifying Christmas, I'm afraid we salvos have been the worst culprits. I don't know too many officers who make it through the season without pulling most of their hair out . . . (except those in headquarters appointments!). "It's our busiest time of year," we routinely tell people. Sometimes I wonder if it's all worth it. Not the helping people part, just the 24/7 activity that keeps us focused on anything but spiritual matters.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. - Jesus (John 14:27)I've found it just takes a few moments to "center" myself and get back to the peace I usually live in. If silence is golden then peace is platinum.
This season don't let it all get to you. Stop long enough, whenever you need it, to get back in the center of Holy Spirit's presence. That's what it's all about.
Thursday, November 24, 2005
I'm Thankful
This Thanksgiving I'm thankful...
- That I'm not a turkey.
- That grass doesn't grow through snow, necessitating winter mowing as well as shoveling.
- That there are only twenty-four hours available each day for TV programming.
- That there aren't twice as many Congressional Representatives and half as many doctors.
- That teenagers ultimately will have children who will become teenagers.
- That the space available for messages on T-shirts and bumpers is limited.
- That snow covers the unraked leaves.
- That hugs and kisses don't add weight or cause cancer.
- That DVDs and radios and TV sets and washers and mixers and lights can be turned off.
- That no one can turn off the moon and stars.
- That it's not required to make a blog entry every day.
- That God answers prayer.
What are YOU thankful for?
- That I'm not a turkey.
- That grass doesn't grow through snow, necessitating winter mowing as well as shoveling.
- That there are only twenty-four hours available each day for TV programming.
- That there aren't twice as many Congressional Representatives and half as many doctors.
- That teenagers ultimately will have children who will become teenagers.
- That the space available for messages on T-shirts and bumpers is limited.
- That snow covers the unraked leaves.
- That hugs and kisses don't add weight or cause cancer.
- That DVDs and radios and TV sets and washers and mixers and lights can be turned off.
- That no one can turn off the moon and stars.
- That it's not required to make a blog entry every day.
- That God answers prayer.
What are YOU thankful for?
Monday, November 21, 2005
The Growing List of Blogs
The blogging community is an interesting place! I love it when I discover a new blog by someone I know. Now my problem is how to keep my blog-reading time down to a reasonable daily exercise! Imagine this scene in heaven:
Jesus: So what did you accomplish on earth?
Me: Lots of things, I guess.
Jesus: Did you keep in touch with the people I wanted you to?
Me: Well, not always, but I DID read their blogs!
Hmm. There must be a cut off I can live with somewhere! If anyone can help me, I'd appreciate it! Well, on to my point (and I DO have one).
If you notice, I've got a growing list of blogs that I recommend to the right. Since I now list them in a "greater than sign" pattern, you might not notice any new ones I put up. PLEASE notice "Ambassador for Christ." This is NOT one of those "what I did today" type of blogs. She has some awesome stuff to say and says it well. I "found myself" in her words more than once, in just one entry!
Let me know what you think. Or at least let her know by leaving comments.
Jesus: So what did you accomplish on earth?
Me: Lots of things, I guess.
Jesus: Did you keep in touch with the people I wanted you to?
Me: Well, not always, but I DID read their blogs!
Hmm. There must be a cut off I can live with somewhere! If anyone can help me, I'd appreciate it! Well, on to my point (and I DO have one).
If you notice, I've got a growing list of blogs that I recommend to the right. Since I now list them in a "greater than sign" pattern, you might not notice any new ones I put up. PLEASE notice "Ambassador for Christ." This is NOT one of those "what I did today" type of blogs. She has some awesome stuff to say and says it well. I "found myself" in her words more than once, in just one entry!
Let me know what you think. Or at least let her know by leaving comments.
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Interesting Site for the Day
So much for the game "Six Steps of Separation." This new site does it in the least steps . . . and does it between anything- not just actors!
Click below and enter any two words/things and find out what I mean.
http://www.omnipelagos.com/
How about William Booth and The Matrix?
Click below and enter any two words/things and find out what I mean.
http://www.omnipelagos.com/
How about William Booth and The Matrix?
Thursday, November 17, 2005
The Fall of Lucifer
I just finished reading a new book by Realms Publishing (a Strang Company) titled "The Fall of Lucifer."
One word: "Awesome!"
The author, Wendy Alec, has seemingly been shown how it all happened and has woven a very emotional, worship inspiring epic which is hard to put down. I absolutely loved it! I recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy/fiction.
"The Fall of Lucifer" is Book 1 in a series called "The Chronicles of Brothers" that traces the angelic brotherhood of Michael, Gabriel and Lucifer. Unfortunately, Book 2 won't be published until October 2006. But you can bet, I'll have it on pre-order to read as soon as it hits the market.
Here is the company's blurb on their new line of books:
Discover Christian fiction that charts realms no living human has visited before. Fantasy, supernatural thrillers, time travel, spiritual warfare, futuristic fiction. Mind-stretching thrillers from the most imaginative Christian authors of our day. Every book a portal to another world, another reality. Travel through time to biblical Babylon in Fallen from Babel. Battle demons dethroned in a fantasy kingdom in Daughter of Prophecy. Escape mechanical assassins in The Personifid Project. And enter heaven itself-in time to see the first seeds of evil spring forth-in The Fall of Lucifer. Realms: Christian Fiction whose time has come.
Check out their web site for more details on this and other books.
http://www.realmsfiction.com
If you're interested in buying "The Fall of Lucifer," you can click on my picture link to the right and it will take you to the cheapest place I found to buy it.
Let me know if you read it and what you think.
One word: "Awesome!"
The author, Wendy Alec, has seemingly been shown how it all happened and has woven a very emotional, worship inspiring epic which is hard to put down. I absolutely loved it! I recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy/fiction.
"The Fall of Lucifer" is Book 1 in a series called "The Chronicles of Brothers" that traces the angelic brotherhood of Michael, Gabriel and Lucifer. Unfortunately, Book 2 won't be published until October 2006. But you can bet, I'll have it on pre-order to read as soon as it hits the market.
Here is the company's blurb on their new line of books:
Discover Christian fiction that charts realms no living human has visited before. Fantasy, supernatural thrillers, time travel, spiritual warfare, futuristic fiction. Mind-stretching thrillers from the most imaginative Christian authors of our day. Every book a portal to another world, another reality. Travel through time to biblical Babylon in Fallen from Babel. Battle demons dethroned in a fantasy kingdom in Daughter of Prophecy. Escape mechanical assassins in The Personifid Project. And enter heaven itself-in time to see the first seeds of evil spring forth-in The Fall of Lucifer. Realms: Christian Fiction whose time has come.
Check out their web site for more details on this and other books.
http://www.realmsfiction.com
If you're interested in buying "The Fall of Lucifer," you can click on my picture link to the right and it will take you to the cheapest place I found to buy it.
Let me know if you read it and what you think.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Warren & Jody’s Blessing
Last Thursday through Saturday I traveled to New Jersey for the wedding of a couple of long time friends- Warren & Jody. I had a great time and was especially honored by Warren to be his Best Man. I think (mostly) I kept him sane for the couple of days before the big event!
One of my responsibilities was to offer a "toast" at the reception. After thinking about it, I decided I should rather pronounce a blessing. After appropriate prayer and listening to God's answer for them, this is what I spoke over them:
This union is God’s design for you and He revels in it even more than you.
He covers over you with His Banner of Love and watches over your way.
He has prepared limitless blessings for you to share and offers them freely.
As you walk together, you will follow in His footsteps while showing your Father’s kindness and gentleness to all who observe His love in you.
You will lead the way for many who seek His will in their own relationships; You will exemplify a life together that wafts a pleasing aroma to the throne of Yahweh and clearly points the way for them to follow; you will influence many- more than you would imagine.
God’s hand is here; He will be your hiding place; your strong tower in times of trouble and you will break through them all because you look to Him for guidance.
Have you ever had that feeling at a wedding that the two aren't quite right for each other? I have. But not this time! I am positive Warren & Jody listened carefully for God's choice for them and they have chosen well.
One of my responsibilities was to offer a "toast" at the reception. After thinking about it, I decided I should rather pronounce a blessing. After appropriate prayer and listening to God's answer for them, this is what I spoke over them:
This union is God’s design for you and He revels in it even more than you.
He covers over you with His Banner of Love and watches over your way.
He has prepared limitless blessings for you to share and offers them freely.
As you walk together, you will follow in His footsteps while showing your Father’s kindness and gentleness to all who observe His love in you.
You will lead the way for many who seek His will in their own relationships; You will exemplify a life together that wafts a pleasing aroma to the throne of Yahweh and clearly points the way for them to follow; you will influence many- more than you would imagine.
God’s hand is here; He will be your hiding place; your strong tower in times of trouble and you will break through them all because you look to Him for guidance.
Have you ever had that feeling at a wedding that the two aren't quite right for each other? I have. But not this time! I am positive Warren & Jody listened carefully for God's choice for them and they have chosen well.
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Don't Play Around!
Here's my story for the day:
Today Chris got his letter from the Division of Motor Vehicles. THE letter he's been waiting for, setting his appointment for his driving test. We've been expecting it for a few days now . . . Chris has been dying to get it for months now!
He sprained his wrist last Friday, so he asks his Mom to open it for him as he stands there salivating (but acting cool, not wanting us to know his anxiety). "What's it say" he asks?
"They denied your request for a test date," says Mom.
"WHAT?!?" moans Chris! "What do you mean?"
Mom breaks out laughing, not able to keep a straight face any longer!
Chris says angrily, "Don't do that!" But after he sees me join in, he laughs too, but not really heart-felt. I am ultimately relieved we averted a heart attack.
The moral of the story? Don't play around with THE driving test date of a 16 year old! {whew! lol}
Today Chris got his letter from the Division of Motor Vehicles. THE letter he's been waiting for, setting his appointment for his driving test. We've been expecting it for a few days now . . . Chris has been dying to get it for months now!
He sprained his wrist last Friday, so he asks his Mom to open it for him as he stands there salivating (but acting cool, not wanting us to know his anxiety). "What's it say" he asks?
"They denied your request for a test date," says Mom.
"WHAT?!?" moans Chris! "What do you mean?"
Mom breaks out laughing, not able to keep a straight face any longer!
Chris says angrily, "Don't do that!" But after he sees me join in, he laughs too, but not really heart-felt. I am ultimately relieved we averted a heart attack.
The moral of the story? Don't play around with THE driving test date of a 16 year old! {whew! lol}
Sunday, November 13, 2005
A Preacher Recommendation
I've got an awesome preacher to recommend for you. His name is Rob Bell. He's the founding pastor at the Mars Hill Bible Church in Grandville, Michigan (one of the fastest growing churches in American history!). I heard about him from a friend who went to a conference where he spoke. I heard some of his stuff and was totally jazzed! He's incredible!
If you want to hear him, here's a link to his web site where you can download the latest sermons spoken at their church. I assume the other speakers are good as well, but so far I've only listened to Rob.
http://www.mhbcmi.org/listen/index.php
Download. Listen. Be blessed. You won't regret it. Then let me know what you think of him.
If you want to hear him, here's a link to his web site where you can download the latest sermons spoken at their church. I assume the other speakers are good as well, but so far I've only listened to Rob.
http://www.mhbcmi.org/listen/index.php
Download. Listen. Be blessed. You won't regret it. Then let me know what you think of him.
Saturday, November 12, 2005
Christmas MIAs
A couple of days ago, our family (sans Jenn who's left us for Canada) drove a few hours to our divisional officer's Christmas party. Yeah- we had it on November 4th, but that's because corps officer's often have lots to do straight through the end of the year and taking a day or two off during our Christmas season is nigh impossible! {sigh}
Anyway, while there, my thoughts drifted off to those who did not show up. There were quite a few. Now I assume there are as many reasons for not coming as there were people who did not come, but I missed them and was sad they were not there to taste a bit of our divisional officer family.
In Northern New England we are quite spread out and it takes some corps many hours to travel just half-way across our division for any particular event! So one of the ways we have eased that difficulty is to schedule fewer divisional events than most other divisions. That's good for a lot of reasons, but one it's not good for is our lack of getting together with each other.
We really do need each other and I hope those who did not show up still take opportunity to fellowship outside of their own little worlds. Often we can't see the greater forest for the trees in our immediate face. Maybe we'll have to get out there to see some of them one of these days.
Here's to our Christmas MIAs: May God bless them too much!
Do you have any Christmas MIAs that could use your attention? Maybe they're just regular weekly church MIAs? Hmmm.
Anyway, while there, my thoughts drifted off to those who did not show up. There were quite a few. Now I assume there are as many reasons for not coming as there were people who did not come, but I missed them and was sad they were not there to taste a bit of our divisional officer family.
In Northern New England we are quite spread out and it takes some corps many hours to travel just half-way across our division for any particular event! So one of the ways we have eased that difficulty is to schedule fewer divisional events than most other divisions. That's good for a lot of reasons, but one it's not good for is our lack of getting together with each other.
We really do need each other and I hope those who did not show up still take opportunity to fellowship outside of their own little worlds. Often we can't see the greater forest for the trees in our immediate face. Maybe we'll have to get out there to see some of them one of these days.
Here's to our Christmas MIAs: May God bless them too much!
Do you have any Christmas MIAs that could use your attention? Maybe they're just regular weekly church MIAs? Hmmm.
Friday, November 11, 2005
Happy Birthday Miriam!
Happy 15th Birthday Miriam J. Martinez Moedano!
The Burr family "adopted" Miriam when she was 9 years old. We have sponsored her ever since, keeping track of her life through the mail. World Vision is doing a wonderful job of taking care of her! We are pleased to help them.
In the Western world we have so much. Maybe too much. I thank God daily for all of it. But what kind of Christian would I be if I didn't share what I have with those who have so much less? Not to sound like I'm patting my own back here. I could be doing much more and I should be.
Who are the Miriam's in your life? They might not be in Mexico. They might just be in your own backyard! I challenge you to look around you and discover what kind of difference you can make in the lives of others. Maybe it's serving in a Soup Kitchen. Maybe it's adopting an orphan and taking them into your home. Maybe it's living simply so that others may simply live. Maybe it's supporting a child in another country. Maybe it's . . . ?
What are you doing? Tell me about it; leave a comment.
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Down the Slippery Slope
Yesterday Mainers affirmed our recent anti-discrimination law. On the surface, that sounds good, right? I mean, who wants to discriminate against anyone? Well in politics, often the words are arranged in such a way as to actually mean the opposite thing. That's exactly what happened in this case.
This vote was actually an attempt to repeal a recent law which gives gays legal rights to not be discriminated against. Let me first state that no one- no matter who they are, what color they are or what they believe should be discriminated against. Discrimination is an abomination. But this is just a small step that will lead to a progressive gay rights agenda in our state. The future will prove the truth of this statement.
What bothers me most about this referendum was its wording. If you were for it, you had to vote no. If you were against it, you had to vote yes. I believe there were many people who misunderstood their vote. Why did "they" have to word it this way? Because they knew it would be to their advantage. They were right and it worked. The vote was relatively close. If a hair more than 5% of the voters voted differently, the results would have been the opposite.
I believe those who are radically for or against any particular issue (often a minority) stir up plenty of votes while the largest percentage of the people are ignorant of the situation. The majority loses for lack of interest or understanding.
Now we're heading down a very slippery slope. Maine's in trouble if we don't watch carefully what our next steps are.
This vote was actually an attempt to repeal a recent law which gives gays legal rights to not be discriminated against. Let me first state that no one- no matter who they are, what color they are or what they believe should be discriminated against. Discrimination is an abomination. But this is just a small step that will lead to a progressive gay rights agenda in our state. The future will prove the truth of this statement.
What bothers me most about this referendum was its wording. If you were for it, you had to vote no. If you were against it, you had to vote yes. I believe there were many people who misunderstood their vote. Why did "they" have to word it this way? Because they knew it would be to their advantage. They were right and it worked. The vote was relatively close. If a hair more than 5% of the voters voted differently, the results would have been the opposite.
I believe those who are radically for or against any particular issue (often a minority) stir up plenty of votes while the largest percentage of the people are ignorant of the situation. The majority loses for lack of interest or understanding.
Now we're heading down a very slippery slope. Maine's in trouble if we don't watch carefully what our next steps are.
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
There's Power in the Blood!
When the king of Moab saw that the battle had gone against him, he took with him seven hundred swordsmen to break through to the king of Edom, but they failed. Then he took his firstborn son, who was to succeed him as king, and offered him as a sacrifice on the city wall. The fury against Israel was great; they withdrew and returned to their own land. - 2 Kings 3:26-27At first look, this passage may only be confusing. Why would there be fury against Israel when the king of Moab killed his own son? I looked this up in a few commentaries and one actually suggested that God got mad at Israel for making the king of Moab do such a thing.
What?! God sent them against the Moabites in the first place!
Sometimes the answer is so obvious we miss it completely.
An offering of life-blood causes a real transaction of power in the spiritual realm. For instance- when Adam and Eve sinned, God shed animal blood to provide them with clothing. God told the Israelites to shed animal blood on an altar to atone for their sins. Or more importantly, when humankind sinned, God shed his own Son's blood to atone. This is more than just a gory ritual!
When the king of Moab offered his son as a sacrifice to his god, that blood provided spiritual power to the demon they worshipped and they were able to overcome the Israelites with that power.
There is real power in the spiritual realm that is all around us! That realm exists and it is accessed by anyone serving Yahweh . . . or serving Satan.
What Christians need to understand is that Jesus' blood offering is a more powerful sacrifice than any other of all time- either past, present or future! Through the blood of Christ, we have the victory over anything The Enemy can throw against us.
Anything!
There's power in the Blood of the Lamb! Hallelujah!When Christ came as high priest of the good things that are already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not man-made, that is to say, not a part of this creation. He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, having obtained eternal redemption. The blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them so that they are outwardly clean. How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God! - Hebrews 9:11-14
Monday, November 07, 2005
You Just Know it!
Deep in your hearts you know that every promise of the LORD your God has come true. Not a single one has failed! - Joshua 23:14I came across this verse a couple of days ago and was floored! I know it's true, but it just jumped out at me. It was one of those times when Holy Spirit quickened his Word directly to my heart. For some reason, I needed this wonderful promise to settle me and give me peace. It worked!
What an awesome God we serve! He is faithful beyond anything we could ever hope to accomplish or imagine. He has never gone back on his word.
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Is it?
Common Sense.
Think about it.
One thing for sure- it isn't. Common, I mean. If it were, more people would have it. But I find it is actually quite a rare commodity.
I wish more people had it. We'd all be a lot better off.
Think about it.
One thing for sure- it isn't. Common, I mean. If it were, more people would have it. But I find it is actually quite a rare commodity.
I wish more people had it. We'd all be a lot better off.
Thursday, November 03, 2005
My Firecrest Visit
Right now I'm sitting in the Philly airport waiting for a pilot. They didn't tell us what happened, but we're now waiting for our new pilot who should be arriving from another airport in about an hour. That's not too bad a delay. Up to now everything has gone without a hitch. Besides, I've got plenty to read, a crossword puzzle book and my laptop to keep me company! I should arrive home about 1-1&1/2 hours later than originally scheduled.
I'm basking in warm thoughts of my last few days at the Atlanta CFOT (College for Officer Training). Things went better than I could have planned myself. While they worked me almost as hard as Steve Court (I love it!), I did get plenty of sleep at nights and didn't have to deal with a 3 hour time change.
Monday I got lost twice trying to find baggage claim at the Atlanta airport, but found my things just before Shimei Hewitt and Major John Needham arrived to pick me up. They dropped me off at my room to settle in and freshen up before my first class with the Firecrest students.
Their first session is graduating very soon and will be sent out to their inner city appointments next week. They may be a bit small in number (they've lost a couple), but the ones still there sure make up for it in depth and enthusiasm! Teddy, Brent, Shimei and Doyle were joined by Nemin (there from India for the next session starting soon), and Tammi (Shimei's sister who is working in an administrative capacity for the program).
I taught a class 2 times a day 9:30 - noonish and 1:30-3:30ish. Then I scheduled individual prayer ministry sessions in the evenings right after dinner (I even squeezed a couple extras in where I could). On Tuesday I taught a combined Spiritual Warfare class of 2nd year students and Firecresters in the AM. On Wednesday I also taught Listening Prayer at the local corps in the evening.
Here are my highlights (not in any special order): Seeing Shimei again and hearing her wonderful laugh! Getting to meet Tami and try to answer her many in-depth questions! Hanging out with Brent and Nemin (and guiding both their prayer sessions into some interesting discoveries)! Almost selling out of all the Battle Gear I brought with me (and even taking orders for more to send back)! Casting out a demon of suicide/death and seeing an amazing change in that person afterwards! The great questions and discussion in all my classes! Watching the corps peoples eyes light up when they discovered a new way to listen to God's voice in their own lives!
God is alive and well in Atlanta- and I was only too glad to be there and witness the evidence. I'd love to return for a longer stay next time (hint, hint)!
I'm basking in warm thoughts of my last few days at the Atlanta CFOT (College for Officer Training). Things went better than I could have planned myself. While they worked me almost as hard as Steve Court (I love it!), I did get plenty of sleep at nights and didn't have to deal with a 3 hour time change.
Monday I got lost twice trying to find baggage claim at the Atlanta airport, but found my things just before Shimei Hewitt and Major John Needham arrived to pick me up. They dropped me off at my room to settle in and freshen up before my first class with the Firecrest students.
Their first session is graduating very soon and will be sent out to their inner city appointments next week. They may be a bit small in number (they've lost a couple), but the ones still there sure make up for it in depth and enthusiasm! Teddy, Brent, Shimei and Doyle were joined by Nemin (there from India for the next session starting soon), and Tammi (Shimei's sister who is working in an administrative capacity for the program).
I taught a class 2 times a day 9:30 - noonish and 1:30-3:30ish. Then I scheduled individual prayer ministry sessions in the evenings right after dinner (I even squeezed a couple extras in where I could). On Tuesday I taught a combined Spiritual Warfare class of 2nd year students and Firecresters in the AM. On Wednesday I also taught Listening Prayer at the local corps in the evening.
Here are my highlights (not in any special order): Seeing Shimei again and hearing her wonderful laugh! Getting to meet Tami and try to answer her many in-depth questions! Hanging out with Brent and Nemin (and guiding both their prayer sessions into some interesting discoveries)! Almost selling out of all the Battle Gear I brought with me (and even taking orders for more to send back)! Casting out a demon of suicide/death and seeing an amazing change in that person afterwards! The great questions and discussion in all my classes! Watching the corps peoples eyes light up when they discovered a new way to listen to God's voice in their own lives!
God is alive and well in Atlanta- and I was only too glad to be there and witness the evidence. I'd love to return for a longer stay next time (hint, hint)!
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Chicken Anyone?
Imagine getting a job at KFC (all the chicken you can eat!). On your first day you grab the mop and scrub the floor really clean. In fact, it's never been so clean and people start noticing the cleanliness of the restaurant. You'd think your boss would congratulate you, right?
But you were hired to cook chicken! Now when people come in your really clean store, there's no chicken. They might admire your floor shine, but there's nothing they came looking for, so they leave . . . hungry.
You've been hired by God to perform a specific job in his family. Wouldn't it be nice if you actually did what he wanted you to do? Do you even know what task he's assigned you?
What are your spiritual gifts? What you actually accomplish in God's kingdom is based on what your gifts are. If you don't yet know your gifts, how in the world can you possibly know what your job description is? And won't the church suffer if you aren't doing your job?
Hey- I need you to do your job. Not mine or anyone else's- your job. We need more "chicken" in the church. Get with the program.
But you were hired to cook chicken! Now when people come in your really clean store, there's no chicken. They might admire your floor shine, but there's nothing they came looking for, so they leave . . . hungry.
You've been hired by God to perform a specific job in his family. Wouldn't it be nice if you actually did what he wanted you to do? Do you even know what task he's assigned you?
What are your spiritual gifts? What you actually accomplish in God's kingdom is based on what your gifts are. If you don't yet know your gifts, how in the world can you possibly know what your job description is? And won't the church suffer if you aren't doing your job?
Hey- I need you to do your job. Not mine or anyone else's- your job. We need more "chicken" in the church. Get with the program.
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