During these festive days people glibly say Merry Christmas with little thought of the true meaning of Christmas. In our materialistic society these words often mean I sure hope you get alot of stuff or hope your Christmas is fun and full of joy. Yet, for many, Christmas is just another day on the calendar with little in the way of possessions or fun and joy. It is another day to survive the best that one can. It is for this reason that I have had mixed emotions about Christmas and at times even dreaded the holiday season. I see the hurt of parents or grandparents who cannot give anything to those that they love or the pain of Christmases past that are a reminder of hurt and abandonment. Many people struggle with depression and rejection as carollers sing about a Silent Night because they don't know the peace of Jesus and they have not experienced God's love for mankind. To me this is what Christmas is all about-the gift of a loving God, the very best gift possible, His own Son, who would forever remain with mere mortals as Immanuel, God with us. There is no greater gift known to mankind than Jesus and the celebration of His birth is not limited to one day on the calendar but is to be celebrated every day. Jesus truly is the gift that keeps on giving.
I feel I am the most blessed man possible because I get to see God being revealed before my very eyes nearly every day. This is living that abundant life Jesus talked about, this is kingdom living. Each time I see Jesus show up I get to celebrate Christmas all over again. While volunteering at Helping Hands this week I got to see Immanuel. This wonderful ministry provided groceries, a meal, and gifts for seniors and children who would not have much this year. What I love about ministries like Helping Hands is that their ministry takes place every day and is not limited to one or two dates on a calendar. Hunger and desperation never take a day off and neither do they, nor should the Church! So far the best present I have had for Christmas is the hug of a grandfather named Mike. Mike and his wife are raising their two grandsons and they were not going to be able to do much for Christmas. To see Mike's eyes as I carried a box of toys towards their table was Christmas for me. To have the blessing of hugging this man and pray for him, to see the kingdom of God being manifested before my eyes was the best Christmas possible. It put all of my troubles and heartache in the rear view mirror. It was like that each time I prayed or talked with someone Tuesday. On Wednesday I took some cakes and cranberries to Open Door Ministry in High Point. This ministry provides groceries, a shelter, and warm food to those in need. Again, I got to see Immanuel in action and felt Him when I was hugged by a staff member. Those that were there were very thankful of our small contribution to those in need. When they said Merry Christmas they understood the meaning of their words. Friday I met Chris who leads West End Ministry in High Point and again I got to see Immanuel in action. They to do a great work for the least of these. They feed 60-70 children a warm meal three days a week, hand out groceries, provide housing for homeless women, operate a thrift store and provide many other services to the community.
Jesus said, the kingdom of God is within us (Luke 17:21). Each time we serve someone else, pray with them, love them, and give them hope the kingdom of God is manifested, Immanuel. We can have Christmas 365 days a year if we choose. There is a world of hurting people within our reach and within us is the hope of Christmas. May God bless you as you bless others, Merry Christmas
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Honesty, the best policy?
When I was growing-up we were taught honesty is the best policy. My father is a man of integrity and he would be honest with a person regardless of the consequences. This is the model that I have tried to follow but it doesn't always work out so great, especially in church. When I was in the corporate setting I would say or ask what everyone else was thinking but wouldn't. I got in trouble then and I still get in trouble now. Once a friend told me I would have a hard time being a pastor because I walked in the office of the prophet, I just told it the way it is. He was right, except I love people and love shares the truth in love and grace because truth sets you free. This same truth telling will get you awkward looks and even some criticism.
Once when preaching I talked about being a sinner saved by grace but continuing to struggle with sin because deep down in my carnal nature, I am a sinner. Some of the seasoned saints rebuked me because followers of Jesus are not sinners. My personal view is that sanctification is a process and I am a work in progress that still messes up. This is an honest statement. I have heard people say that they are saved, sanctified, and filled with the Holy Spirit and have not sinned since that wonderful day. I also am saved, sanctified, and filled with the Holy Spirit but I continue to struggle with sin. Sometimes I win the battle sometimes I lose. I can relate to Paul in Romans 7 about his own struggle with the sinful nature. The wonderful thing is that my battle with sin is not what it used to be. Today, the battle is more over the matters of the heart that are hidden to men but open to the eyes of God instead of the more obvious short comings that others can see or hear. The bad news is that matters of the heart are still sin before God. It seems that I have come to the place in my own life where I am grasping just how dark my heart can be at times. I am not proud of this revelation but darkness is only revealed as the Holy Spirit is working within the heart. It is understandable to me that Paul can write that he is the chief of all sinners. It was not a past tense word but present tense. Even the great Paul struggled even though he was a man of faith, insight, obedience, and contentment. What makes me think that I am even less of a sinner than Paul? The best news of all though, is that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. In other words, we are not condemned because Jesus understands the struggles of the flesh. He knows our hearts are for Him and we are doing our best to follow Him but sometimes that sinful nature pokes through. My body might be dead to sin but my spirit is alive because of His righteousness. This is not permission to live sinfully because there should be an earnest desire to live free from sin through the Holy Spirit.
Now for one moment imagine what would happen to the church if we would admit that we struggle with a sinful nature. People could actually relate to us. We would no longer be viewed as saved, sanctified, and petrified. Possibly we could be seen by others as followers that have struggles in life who sometimes we miss the mark, that we are actually human. Those watching a life lived honestly will see the times that Jesus picks us up and helps us along the road of life. A policy of honesty will also enable us to help those who have sinned and to love on them because we will see them as we are seen by Jesus. Love covers over a multitude of sins (1Peter 4:8). Let us begin first by loving the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then loving ourselves and our neighbors. This love would begin a reformation in the church that would turn the world upside down one more time.
When I was younger I thought you had to be perfect, sin free, to serve God. No, you just have to know Jesus! Until we are honest we will be viewed by the world as the frozen chosen and few want to be with us because of our lack of humanity.
Once when preaching I talked about being a sinner saved by grace but continuing to struggle with sin because deep down in my carnal nature, I am a sinner. Some of the seasoned saints rebuked me because followers of Jesus are not sinners. My personal view is that sanctification is a process and I am a work in progress that still messes up. This is an honest statement. I have heard people say that they are saved, sanctified, and filled with the Holy Spirit and have not sinned since that wonderful day. I also am saved, sanctified, and filled with the Holy Spirit but I continue to struggle with sin. Sometimes I win the battle sometimes I lose. I can relate to Paul in Romans 7 about his own struggle with the sinful nature. The wonderful thing is that my battle with sin is not what it used to be. Today, the battle is more over the matters of the heart that are hidden to men but open to the eyes of God instead of the more obvious short comings that others can see or hear. The bad news is that matters of the heart are still sin before God. It seems that I have come to the place in my own life where I am grasping just how dark my heart can be at times. I am not proud of this revelation but darkness is only revealed as the Holy Spirit is working within the heart. It is understandable to me that Paul can write that he is the chief of all sinners. It was not a past tense word but present tense. Even the great Paul struggled even though he was a man of faith, insight, obedience, and contentment. What makes me think that I am even less of a sinner than Paul? The best news of all though, is that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. In other words, we are not condemned because Jesus understands the struggles of the flesh. He knows our hearts are for Him and we are doing our best to follow Him but sometimes that sinful nature pokes through. My body might be dead to sin but my spirit is alive because of His righteousness. This is not permission to live sinfully because there should be an earnest desire to live free from sin through the Holy Spirit.
Now for one moment imagine what would happen to the church if we would admit that we struggle with a sinful nature. People could actually relate to us. We would no longer be viewed as saved, sanctified, and petrified. Possibly we could be seen by others as followers that have struggles in life who sometimes we miss the mark, that we are actually human. Those watching a life lived honestly will see the times that Jesus picks us up and helps us along the road of life. A policy of honesty will also enable us to help those who have sinned and to love on them because we will see them as we are seen by Jesus. Love covers over a multitude of sins (1Peter 4:8). Let us begin first by loving the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then loving ourselves and our neighbors. This love would begin a reformation in the church that would turn the world upside down one more time.
When I was younger I thought you had to be perfect, sin free, to serve God. No, you just have to know Jesus! Until we are honest we will be viewed by the world as the frozen chosen and few want to be with us because of our lack of humanity.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Redistributing Church Wealth
Depending upon which side of the political aisle you sit either you hate the idea of wealth redistribution or you love it. Fortunately we are not dealing with governmental politics but with church ethics and responsibility. As a pastor I would often hear the words, "Where there is a vision God makes a provision." If the church was struggling financially then either the vision was wrong or you were outside of the will of God. Either way, you the pastor, were doing something wrong. What if a struggling church is not doing anything wrong but rather they are inside the will of God and having to depend on others in the Body to supply the need? Maybe the problem is not the church that is struggling but churches and denominations that are not stewarding the resources of God biblically. This a thought provoking proposition and one that could cause some controversy in many circles. But far too many churches and ministries that are in the will of God, doing the work, are struggling to keep the doors open while others are hoarding money in savings, sitting on massive assets, acting as if the money is theirs and not God's.
There are some pastors and leaders who have a kingdom mentality and understand the biblical model that was set before us in the early church. In Greensboro a church took up an offering for another, larger church that was in need. In areas like Detroit, Fort Worth, and Little Rock there are stories of churches collaborating together for the good of the community, going far beyond the four walls and denominational boundaries. These are examples of the church being the church. Even though I pastored a church that struggled financially, the leadership understood the need to bless other ministries in our community each month and to consistently give to ministries that had a similar mindset. On occasion we would receive a phone call thanking us or asking why we would give to another church but those calls were rare. Our purpose in giving was to be sowing into ministries that were kingdom minded. At the same time we honored our denominational obligations and supported missionaries. The attitude of the leadership was to honor the LORD and to sow into His kingdom, it was never for the recognition of men or to reap our own rewards.
There are many New Testament scriptures to support the idea that churches are to be sharing their wealth and supporting those in need. In Acts 11:28-30, the prophets prophesied that there would be a famine in the land and each disciple responded by giving to those in need as they were able. (It is interesting to note that it was disciples providing support and not those sitting on the sidelines.) Paul exhorted the church in Rome to, "Share with God's people who are in need." (Rom 12:13 NIV) As Paul writes to the church in Rome he says that he is on the way to Jerusalem carrying an offering from the churches in Macedonia and Achaia for the "poor among the saints in Jerusalem." These churches were pleased to give an offering to their brothers and sisters in Christ who had a need. (Rom 15:25-27 NIV) There are several other exhortations to help those in need; 1Cor 16, Gal 2:10, 1John 3:17, James, and the very words of Jesus, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matt 25:40 NIV) Finally, Paul penned these words of instruction to the church, "Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. Then there will be equality, as it is written: "He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little did not have too little." (2Cor 8-15 NIV)
The church in America is great at responding to disasters that may strike a community. They are generous with their time and resources. For any of us that have had the blessing of serving in a relief role following a disaster we have seen the kingdom of heaven kissing the earth as we are the hands and feet of Jesus. Yet, every day a church will close it's doors because it did not have the financial resources to minister to the needs of those in their community. These are disasters in the making because lives hang in the balance and it could be that this church or ministry is the only one able to meet the need. These disasters could be avoided if we would follow the model set before in the New Testament. We should consider the parable of the talents in Matthew 25. One day each church leader will be held accountable for the financial resources for which they were responsible. How will we respond to the King when He asks how did you steward the money I left in your care? Will we hear the words, "well done, good and faithful servant! or "...throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matt 25:21, 30 NIV) The choice is ours. Let us pray that no more ministries in the will of God be shuttered because of an unbiblical view of sharing the wealth or disobedience to the exhortation of scripture.
Note-after writing this I thought there might be some who would argue that if we were in the will of God then the finances would be available because God's plan can never be stopped. I agree with this position but what if God's is speaking to a heart and that heart is in disobedience? Just a thought.
There are some pastors and leaders who have a kingdom mentality and understand the biblical model that was set before us in the early church. In Greensboro a church took up an offering for another, larger church that was in need. In areas like Detroit, Fort Worth, and Little Rock there are stories of churches collaborating together for the good of the community, going far beyond the four walls and denominational boundaries. These are examples of the church being the church. Even though I pastored a church that struggled financially, the leadership understood the need to bless other ministries in our community each month and to consistently give to ministries that had a similar mindset. On occasion we would receive a phone call thanking us or asking why we would give to another church but those calls were rare. Our purpose in giving was to be sowing into ministries that were kingdom minded. At the same time we honored our denominational obligations and supported missionaries. The attitude of the leadership was to honor the LORD and to sow into His kingdom, it was never for the recognition of men or to reap our own rewards.
There are many New Testament scriptures to support the idea that churches are to be sharing their wealth and supporting those in need. In Acts 11:28-30, the prophets prophesied that there would be a famine in the land and each disciple responded by giving to those in need as they were able. (It is interesting to note that it was disciples providing support and not those sitting on the sidelines.) Paul exhorted the church in Rome to, "Share with God's people who are in need." (Rom 12:13 NIV) As Paul writes to the church in Rome he says that he is on the way to Jerusalem carrying an offering from the churches in Macedonia and Achaia for the "poor among the saints in Jerusalem." These churches were pleased to give an offering to their brothers and sisters in Christ who had a need. (Rom 15:25-27 NIV) There are several other exhortations to help those in need; 1Cor 16, Gal 2:10, 1John 3:17, James, and the very words of Jesus, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matt 25:40 NIV) Finally, Paul penned these words of instruction to the church, "Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. Then there will be equality, as it is written: "He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little did not have too little." (2Cor 8-15 NIV)
The church in America is great at responding to disasters that may strike a community. They are generous with their time and resources. For any of us that have had the blessing of serving in a relief role following a disaster we have seen the kingdom of heaven kissing the earth as we are the hands and feet of Jesus. Yet, every day a church will close it's doors because it did not have the financial resources to minister to the needs of those in their community. These are disasters in the making because lives hang in the balance and it could be that this church or ministry is the only one able to meet the need. These disasters could be avoided if we would follow the model set before in the New Testament. We should consider the parable of the talents in Matthew 25. One day each church leader will be held accountable for the financial resources for which they were responsible. How will we respond to the King when He asks how did you steward the money I left in your care? Will we hear the words, "well done, good and faithful servant! or "...throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matt 25:21, 30 NIV) The choice is ours. Let us pray that no more ministries in the will of God be shuttered because of an unbiblical view of sharing the wealth or disobedience to the exhortation of scripture.
Note-after writing this I thought there might be some who would argue that if we were in the will of God then the finances would be available because God's plan can never be stopped. I agree with this position but what if God's is speaking to a heart and that heart is in disobedience? Just a thought.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Save Yourself
One of the things I have always wrestled with is, why can I pray with people and see the answer to their prayer needs, yet, in my own life I don't see the same thing happening? Over the years I have seen people healed, families reconciled, financial blessings coming forth, etc. At the same time I pray for the healing of myself or family members, praying for family relations or tight finances and the answer seems slow in coming or non-existent. In those moments it is easy to begin to doubt your own faith or anointing and questioning God . Inevitably someone will come along saying if you just had enough faith or if you prayed more or if you spent time fasting, whatever it may be that you are not doing enough of, putting the burden on your lack of spirituality. Doubt begins to creep in and the questioning of self as you wrestle in prayer and nothing seems to be happening . Ministers are especially prone to this because they will stand before the people encouraging faith, trust, and prayer and yet they are not seeing the results in their own lives. We cry out why not me Father what is wrong with me, where are you?
This morning as I was pondering this mystery I began to think back to when Jesus was on the cross and the mockers yelled at him saying, "He saved others; let Him Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God." (Luke 23:35 NKJV) Friend can you hear the cry of the mocker who says, if he truly is the anointed of God, the servant of the LORD, then let his prayers save him. Let his body be healed, let his financial need be met, let his family live in peace, if he is truly a follower of Christ. Can you hear the seed of doubt being planted in the mind and soul of the believer? This seed of doubt could cause one to question their anointing, their hearing the voice of God, their faith, and tragically for some, even their belief in Jesus.
So what is a possible explanation of why the prayers of the anointed are at times seemingly bouncing off of heavens of brass, getting nowhere? Maybe, just maybe, God is using this time of struggle as an example to others of perseverance, faith, and obedience regardless of the outcome of prayer. Jesus set before us the model that we should follow because we are to imitate him. Jesus could have saved Himself but He chose to hang on the cross for our sake. He was being obedient to the Father. An African American pastor by the name of Curtis in Hamlet impacted my life by what he modelled. He is one of the reasons that I preach and teach with passion. I heard Curtis preach his mother's funeral the same day he got out of the hospital after having surgery for cancer. I cannot always remember the titles of my sermons but I will never forget the message Curtis brought forth, "What Time Is It?" I told the Father I wanted to be that kind of preacher, just like Curtis. One day as I was sitting with Curtis as he was having a blood transfusion. During that time, as we shared together, he told me that he knew he was going to die but that he was going to teach his church how to die with dignity, with joy in his heart, and praising God until he went home. Curtis did not lack faith, he was a righteous man and his prayers were powerful, availing much, yet he died. Jesus said of the apostle Paul that he would suffer much for the name of Jesus. Paul a man of faith, prayer, and obedience, set before us an example of rejoicing in the midst of the trial. Consider for a moment that the reason for the lack of answered prayer has nothing to do with us but this is God's good and perfect plan that we might not be able to comprehend. God turns everything to good. Let me challenge you a little more, maybe God has faith in us that we will get through to the other side of the trial in victory. In the story of Job God asked satan, have you considered My servant Job? God knew Job would get through his long dark night of the soul without cursing God or denying His existence. Curtis endured his cancer with joy, completing the assignment God had thrust upon him, now standing before the throne of Jesus.
Our unanswered prayers are not a sign of failure but rather an opportunity to walk out life before others with joy in our hearts, completely trusting in the promises of God. These times of tribulation will pass and our hearts purified as we trust and believe. It is in the midst of wrestling with God that the mysteries of heaven are revealed.
May God bless you and if you find yourself in this season of wrestling with God be encouraged, God is preparing you for the next level.
This morning as I was pondering this mystery I began to think back to when Jesus was on the cross and the mockers yelled at him saying, "He saved others; let Him Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God." (Luke 23:35 NKJV) Friend can you hear the cry of the mocker who says, if he truly is the anointed of God, the servant of the LORD, then let his prayers save him. Let his body be healed, let his financial need be met, let his family live in peace, if he is truly a follower of Christ. Can you hear the seed of doubt being planted in the mind and soul of the believer? This seed of doubt could cause one to question their anointing, their hearing the voice of God, their faith, and tragically for some, even their belief in Jesus.
So what is a possible explanation of why the prayers of the anointed are at times seemingly bouncing off of heavens of brass, getting nowhere? Maybe, just maybe, God is using this time of struggle as an example to others of perseverance, faith, and obedience regardless of the outcome of prayer. Jesus set before us the model that we should follow because we are to imitate him. Jesus could have saved Himself but He chose to hang on the cross for our sake. He was being obedient to the Father. An African American pastor by the name of Curtis in Hamlet impacted my life by what he modelled. He is one of the reasons that I preach and teach with passion. I heard Curtis preach his mother's funeral the same day he got out of the hospital after having surgery for cancer. I cannot always remember the titles of my sermons but I will never forget the message Curtis brought forth, "What Time Is It?" I told the Father I wanted to be that kind of preacher, just like Curtis. One day as I was sitting with Curtis as he was having a blood transfusion. During that time, as we shared together, he told me that he knew he was going to die but that he was going to teach his church how to die with dignity, with joy in his heart, and praising God until he went home. Curtis did not lack faith, he was a righteous man and his prayers were powerful, availing much, yet he died. Jesus said of the apostle Paul that he would suffer much for the name of Jesus. Paul a man of faith, prayer, and obedience, set before us an example of rejoicing in the midst of the trial. Consider for a moment that the reason for the lack of answered prayer has nothing to do with us but this is God's good and perfect plan that we might not be able to comprehend. God turns everything to good. Let me challenge you a little more, maybe God has faith in us that we will get through to the other side of the trial in victory. In the story of Job God asked satan, have you considered My servant Job? God knew Job would get through his long dark night of the soul without cursing God or denying His existence. Curtis endured his cancer with joy, completing the assignment God had thrust upon him, now standing before the throne of Jesus.
Our unanswered prayers are not a sign of failure but rather an opportunity to walk out life before others with joy in our hearts, completely trusting in the promises of God. These times of tribulation will pass and our hearts purified as we trust and believe. It is in the midst of wrestling with God that the mysteries of heaven are revealed.
May God bless you and if you find yourself in this season of wrestling with God be encouraged, God is preparing you for the next level.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Where's the Honesty?
One of the things I most appreciate about the Word of God is the honesty of the various authors. No one tried to hide the truth; David was an adulterer, murderer, a lousy father, and struggled with the events surrounding his life. Elijah was so depressed that he wanted to die under a broom tree. Paul struggled with sin, doing things he knew he should not do and not doing what he was supposed to do. Job had his trials and questioned God. Even Jesus cried out from the cross about being forsaken by the Father. (I recognize that these words were for those within ear shot so that they would finish the Messianic 22nd Psalm). Still the writers of the gospels shared the sighs of Jesus, his frustration at times with the people, and even asking God to take away the cup of affliction. The psalmist share their struggles with God and life's deepest questions. Jonah complained about the mission field to which God sent him. Nothing is hidden from our sight because God is the God of truth. The people of the Bible had real struggles and real doubts. While in prison John the Baptist asked if Jesus were truly the promised one, that is real life. You get the idea, the Bible is honest about life and our relationship with God.
Yet, in the church today we put on fake smiles and tell others how blessed and highly favored we are when in actuality we are hurting, struggling, and unsure where God is in the midst of our storm. Unfortunately, today honesty is missing in many of our churches. Job's friends are quick to show up in the form of well meaning saints who instead of bearing with us in our time of need are quick to point out all that we have done wrong. If we share our concerns, struggles, and even doubts someone will tell us if we just had faith or if we would just pray more or if we would just sow more than we could reap more things and life would go better for us. I believe all of these things because I have seen them in action but it does not make the struggle any easier. We live by pithy idioms or as I call them, bumper sticker theology. Life is more than about easy words or catchy phrases. You cannot just smile your troubles away. Life is about a relationship with a Heavenly Father and in any relationship there will be some struggles. Even Jacob wrestled with God. Because we cannot be honest with one another little true ministry is actually being done in our churches. People are afraid of being honest in the one place that it should be safe to be honest, the church. We are afraid of what people will think or say about our struggle or even our questioning of God. We are worried that we will be thought less of because of our struggles. Yet, it is in the midst of the struggle that we often find God. It as we are crying out to Him that He will answer. It is in the midst of the dark night that we discover the truths of God's Word. It is as if the deep calls unto the deep and God will once again assure of His sovereignty and love for us. Let us be honest with one another as we walk in grace and truth with one another, loving each as a fellow traveller along the road of life.
Yet, it is in these places of strife that we truly encounter the living God. God showed up to answer Job and explained his actions to Jonah. Again, it is about the relationship. Struggle brings us closer to God because we are being honest about where we are and what we wrestling with. God knows our thoughts so we just need to be honest with ourselves and others. So many struggling people are being pushed out of the church because there must be something wrong with them if they are questioning or having difficulties. There is nothing wrong with these people, they are just being honest in where they are with God. I am like the man in the book of Mark, Lord I believe but help me in my unbelief.
May we bear with one another in love and grace as we struggle with the things of life.
Yet, in the church today we put on fake smiles and tell others how blessed and highly favored we are when in actuality we are hurting, struggling, and unsure where God is in the midst of our storm. Unfortunately, today honesty is missing in many of our churches. Job's friends are quick to show up in the form of well meaning saints who instead of bearing with us in our time of need are quick to point out all that we have done wrong. If we share our concerns, struggles, and even doubts someone will tell us if we just had faith or if we would just pray more or if we would just sow more than we could reap more things and life would go better for us. I believe all of these things because I have seen them in action but it does not make the struggle any easier. We live by pithy idioms or as I call them, bumper sticker theology. Life is more than about easy words or catchy phrases. You cannot just smile your troubles away. Life is about a relationship with a Heavenly Father and in any relationship there will be some struggles. Even Jacob wrestled with God. Because we cannot be honest with one another little true ministry is actually being done in our churches. People are afraid of being honest in the one place that it should be safe to be honest, the church. We are afraid of what people will think or say about our struggle or even our questioning of God. We are worried that we will be thought less of because of our struggles. Yet, it is in the midst of the struggle that we often find God. It as we are crying out to Him that He will answer. It is in the midst of the dark night that we discover the truths of God's Word. It is as if the deep calls unto the deep and God will once again assure of His sovereignty and love for us. Let us be honest with one another as we walk in grace and truth with one another, loving each as a fellow traveller along the road of life.
Yet, it is in these places of strife that we truly encounter the living God. God showed up to answer Job and explained his actions to Jonah. Again, it is about the relationship. Struggle brings us closer to God because we are being honest about where we are and what we wrestling with. God knows our thoughts so we just need to be honest with ourselves and others. So many struggling people are being pushed out of the church because there must be something wrong with them if they are questioning or having difficulties. There is nothing wrong with these people, they are just being honest in where they are with God. I am like the man in the book of Mark, Lord I believe but help me in my unbelief.
May we bear with one another in love and grace as we struggle with the things of life.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Maintaining Balance
Throughout the Bible you notice balance in the counsel of Scripture. God worked six days and rested one. There is balance between ceremonial laws and social justice. Jesus exhibited balance in that He came in the fullness of grace and truth. Even the earth is perfectly balanced, tilted at just the right angle, at just the right distance from the sun, with just the right mass so that it stays in the proper orbit. Whole ecosystems must be in balance or they will collapse. Yet, balance is often missing in the church and in the lives of believers. I have always struggled with trying to maintain balance in my own life. Even before ministry the balance of career and family was a weakness on my part. In the beginning of my time as a pastor the Holy Spirit strongly impressed upon my heart that I had forsaken the two I loved the most, the Father and my wife. I was so busy doing ministry and working that I was not spending the time I should have with either God or my wife and my relationship with both suffered. My life was out of balance diminishing my effectiveness for the kingdom, harming my family, and effecting my health.
In the church today there is a lack of balance in the teaching and ministry emphasis of many churches. It is as if the church has developed the corporate mentality of specialization or worse, marketing a product. If you are into faith then this is the church for you. If you are more into grace then this church is for you. The church down the street is really into social justice but rarely teaches on repentance. This church is known for it's music but does little or no outreach so you won't be made to feel uncomfortable. Choose the church which fits your individual preferences and if you cannot find just the right church, just wait and one will started with you in mind. While I am being somewhat facetious, there is a lot of truth in this observation. Early in my ministry I had a person tell me the best services took place when the preacher never preached and people just praised God in song (lack of balance). Somewhere along the way we have forgotten about the whole counsel of God. Yet, Paul told the elders of Ephesus that he had shared with them the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27).
In order for disciples to be raised-up and communities transformed we need for the church to be balanced in all of it's teaching. Yes, there are different gifts and different anointings but they should be working together and not competing against one another through specialization and marketing. With balance comes the tools for a person to develop from being an infant believer to being a disciple of Jesus. The full counsel of God will challenge how we view ourselves and others. The whole counsel of God is a must as we seek to see lives transformed and communities won over to Christ. Let us pray for more wisdom and greater revelation in this time of turmoil and uncertainty in our land. The church and the world will need the full counsel of God in the days ahead.
In the church today there is a lack of balance in the teaching and ministry emphasis of many churches. It is as if the church has developed the corporate mentality of specialization or worse, marketing a product. If you are into faith then this is the church for you. If you are more into grace then this church is for you. The church down the street is really into social justice but rarely teaches on repentance. This church is known for it's music but does little or no outreach so you won't be made to feel uncomfortable. Choose the church which fits your individual preferences and if you cannot find just the right church, just wait and one will started with you in mind. While I am being somewhat facetious, there is a lot of truth in this observation. Early in my ministry I had a person tell me the best services took place when the preacher never preached and people just praised God in song (lack of balance). Somewhere along the way we have forgotten about the whole counsel of God. Yet, Paul told the elders of Ephesus that he had shared with them the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27).
In order for disciples to be raised-up and communities transformed we need for the church to be balanced in all of it's teaching. Yes, there are different gifts and different anointings but they should be working together and not competing against one another through specialization and marketing. With balance comes the tools for a person to develop from being an infant believer to being a disciple of Jesus. The full counsel of God will challenge how we view ourselves and others. The whole counsel of God is a must as we seek to see lives transformed and communities won over to Christ. Let us pray for more wisdom and greater revelation in this time of turmoil and uncertainty in our land. The church and the world will need the full counsel of God in the days ahead.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Market Place Ministry
Recently I was blessed with a temporary job for which I was very thankful. The job itself was very menial and required no skills because all I had to do was scan badges. For a period of eight very chilly days I stood at the back of two buildings greeting people as they came and went scanning their badges. All types of people attend this event from all over the world and the experience was wonderful because during that time the Holy Spirit either taught me something or reminded me of a truth.
The first lesson was to learn to be content in everything. Because I viewed this job as a blessing it kept me from thinking, "here I am with all this education doing a job anyone could do." Someone made the comment to me about how boring the job must be and I responded it was like watching paint dry except for the people. As I stood at my post for those eight days I watched the world walk by me. There were those that were obviously affluent, others just getting by, and others were very poor looking for help. This is a reminder that Jesus came for all people and not just some. For eight days I had the opportunity to truly watch the leaves of the trees across the street change colors which was a reminder of how everything praises God and daily his paint brush is actively at work in creation. For eight days I was content because God's hand was in that place.
Second, I had the blessing of seeing the goodness of people in action towards me. On one particularly chilly morning one gentleman offered me his overcoat because he thought I looked cold. Each day one of the ladies who was working would bring me pecan pastries from her company to drink with the coffee that a caterer would give me to warm me up. If there was left over food the same caterer would bring me a plate that had been served to customers and sales staff. Different ones offered to get me a drink or told me to help myself to a cup of coffee or water any time I wanted. Most people are good hearted.
Even though it was a temporary job this place where God placed me turned into a ministry. It was not a matter of telling anyone that I was a minister or a follower of Jesus, it was just loving and respecting each person regardless of their station in life or even their lifestyle. We do not have to be religious, yuck, we just have to follow Jesus and love people. People will know that you are different not because of a cross you wear but because of the peace, joy, and love they see in you. As I was standing there each day the Holy Spirit would whisper, "I want you to pray this way for this person or this is the need in that person's life". Nothing more profound other than listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit and being obedient. In that time God even would give me a word for someone that I was able to bring forth in a non-threatening over spiritualized way that was accurate and received, that brought glory to God. There were others that I would have the opportunity to pray with as I developed relationships by being friendly, holding doors, and being of help beyond what the job required. As I was being friendly every day and just being me, finding common ground with different people regardless of position, from janitors to company owners and presidents, it created an opportunity for me to share my story, not because I forced it because they asked. There were multiple people who would share the problems their pastor or church faced and I was able to share some wisdom and suggest ways how they could help their church or pastor. This only happened after a number of days of being friendly and helpful to every person I saw. By the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony Satan is overcome (Rev 12:11 my translation). I found that my story ministered to individuals and often times would bless them. One gentleman after hearing my story and heart for those in need gave me a check to be used as I saw fit. This money was forwarded to a local ministry that feeds the hungry. I share this because each of us have a story and ministry is far beyond the walls of the church.
Finally, this job was a reminder that there are no insignificant people in God's kingdom. I had no authority, no title, and no status. Some people would look past me as if I did not exist, did not matter, and they wanted to act if I was a non-entity, ignoring me. This did not keep me from speaking to them or being helpful each time I saw them but rather gave me the opportunity to pray blessings for them in my spirit. These folks were definitely in the minority and need a touch of heaven. In the Father's world everyone is significant and is created in His image. There is no one who should be ignored and brushed past. How easy is it in the church to ignore the least of these? Scripture exhorts us time and time again to treat each person with dignity and respect, to submit to one another, and to love each person. Yet, even in the church, we show preferential treatment. Let us begin to have the eyes of Jesus and the heart of the Father to see each person as special in God's sight.
The first lesson was to learn to be content in everything. Because I viewed this job as a blessing it kept me from thinking, "here I am with all this education doing a job anyone could do." Someone made the comment to me about how boring the job must be and I responded it was like watching paint dry except for the people. As I stood at my post for those eight days I watched the world walk by me. There were those that were obviously affluent, others just getting by, and others were very poor looking for help. This is a reminder that Jesus came for all people and not just some. For eight days I had the opportunity to truly watch the leaves of the trees across the street change colors which was a reminder of how everything praises God and daily his paint brush is actively at work in creation. For eight days I was content because God's hand was in that place.
Second, I had the blessing of seeing the goodness of people in action towards me. On one particularly chilly morning one gentleman offered me his overcoat because he thought I looked cold. Each day one of the ladies who was working would bring me pecan pastries from her company to drink with the coffee that a caterer would give me to warm me up. If there was left over food the same caterer would bring me a plate that had been served to customers and sales staff. Different ones offered to get me a drink or told me to help myself to a cup of coffee or water any time I wanted. Most people are good hearted.
Even though it was a temporary job this place where God placed me turned into a ministry. It was not a matter of telling anyone that I was a minister or a follower of Jesus, it was just loving and respecting each person regardless of their station in life or even their lifestyle. We do not have to be religious, yuck, we just have to follow Jesus and love people. People will know that you are different not because of a cross you wear but because of the peace, joy, and love they see in you. As I was standing there each day the Holy Spirit would whisper, "I want you to pray this way for this person or this is the need in that person's life". Nothing more profound other than listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit and being obedient. In that time God even would give me a word for someone that I was able to bring forth in a non-threatening over spiritualized way that was accurate and received, that brought glory to God. There were others that I would have the opportunity to pray with as I developed relationships by being friendly, holding doors, and being of help beyond what the job required. As I was being friendly every day and just being me, finding common ground with different people regardless of position, from janitors to company owners and presidents, it created an opportunity for me to share my story, not because I forced it because they asked. There were multiple people who would share the problems their pastor or church faced and I was able to share some wisdom and suggest ways how they could help their church or pastor. This only happened after a number of days of being friendly and helpful to every person I saw. By the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony Satan is overcome (Rev 12:11 my translation). I found that my story ministered to individuals and often times would bless them. One gentleman after hearing my story and heart for those in need gave me a check to be used as I saw fit. This money was forwarded to a local ministry that feeds the hungry. I share this because each of us have a story and ministry is far beyond the walls of the church.
Finally, this job was a reminder that there are no insignificant people in God's kingdom. I had no authority, no title, and no status. Some people would look past me as if I did not exist, did not matter, and they wanted to act if I was a non-entity, ignoring me. This did not keep me from speaking to them or being helpful each time I saw them but rather gave me the opportunity to pray blessings for them in my spirit. These folks were definitely in the minority and need a touch of heaven. In the Father's world everyone is significant and is created in His image. There is no one who should be ignored and brushed past. How easy is it in the church to ignore the least of these? Scripture exhorts us time and time again to treat each person with dignity and respect, to submit to one another, and to love each person. Yet, even in the church, we show preferential treatment. Let us begin to have the eyes of Jesus and the heart of the Father to see each person as special in God's sight.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Pastor Appreciation-Beyond Pastor Appreciation Month
Jesus tells us in Matthew 10:41 that we will receive a prophet's reward when we receive the prophet and we will receive the righteous man's reward when we receive a righteous man. These are powerful words for the church to live by in regard to their pastor. If a pastor is seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit in his ministry and is sharing the Word of God as directed by the Spirit then he is a prophet, revealing the things of God. If this same pastor is walking in the way of righteousness then he is a righteous man. So often churches are bankrupt spiritually and financially because they are not receiving-honoring-the prophet that Jesus has placed before them in the person of their pastor. Below are some suggestions on how to honor and support your pastor.
First and foremost, pray for your pastor, his ministry, his marriage, his family, and his health. Pastors are under constant spiritual attack by the enemy. Scripture tells us that if you strike the pastor the sheep will flee (Mark 14:27). Pastors are very human with feet of clay and have the same struggles as everyone else. No, their marriages are not perfect and they have rough times like others sitting in the pew. Statistics show that 50% of all pastors marriages will end in divorce with approximately 40% of them having an affair at some point in their ministry. A pastor's child/PK will get in trouble and will not always be the little angel that everyone dreams of having. Often times they get in trouble because of the youth in their own church. Pray against discouragement and that you pastor will be filled with joy and wisdom. Pray for your pastor's health and well being. Just as you are praying blessings there are others praying curses upon the pastor.
Second, honor your pastor's time as he prepares for Sunday and spends time with his family. Many pastoral families miss their dad or mom being at events or even family meals because of emergencies and church obligations. The time with family is precious because children spell love-TIME. Encourage your pastor to take vacations and time off from ministry obligations. As a bi-vocational pastor my average week between my work and the church was ninety hours a week. Even after leaving my career I would average over sixty hours per week doing ministry. To prepare a good sermon can take as much time as twenty hours a week by the time you consider the prayer time, research, preparation, and more time of prayer. Once while at another church I heard someone tell their pastor that all they had to do was work three hours a week what was the big deal. Being a pastor goes way beyond the Sunday morning service into the dark hours of the laboring in prayer for the flock. Pastors are on call twenty-four hours a day every day.
Third, honor your commitments to the church and the pastor. If you say that you are going to do something then follow through and do not leave the pastor holding the bag. One of the things I have noticed as a follower of Jesus is that promises are often hollow and of little value among believers. Let your yes be yes and your no be no.
Fourth, submit to your pastor so that his work may not be a burden but rather a joy (Heb 13:17). None of us agree totally with those that are over us yet we are to submit to their leadership. If you have a problem with something your pastor is doing or has said, then go and talk with him. We may not agree with their rational or methods but we are to support them unless it is against Scripture. Then, if it is a matter of Scripture, then we deal with the issue with grace and love. Too often we share our discontent with others instead of going to the source, which leads to seeds of strife being sown. The lack of submission is one reason we have so many church splits and we are not one as Jesus prayed we should be (John 17).
Finally, be that mighty person of valor for your pastor. Stand in the gap when they are weary and discouraged. Protect them from the daggers of hurtful words. Rebuke those that speak ill of the pastor and his family. Above all love them and show them the same grace Jesus has shown towards each of us. They are men and women that Jesus has given as a gift to the local church, honor them
There are many other things I could write about how to honor and support your pastor. Most of all love them, show grace at all times, pray for them, and stand with them as they participate with you in the expansion of God's kingdom.
If you would like more information on how to honor your pastor please feel free to contact me.
First and foremost, pray for your pastor, his ministry, his marriage, his family, and his health. Pastors are under constant spiritual attack by the enemy. Scripture tells us that if you strike the pastor the sheep will flee (Mark 14:27). Pastors are very human with feet of clay and have the same struggles as everyone else. No, their marriages are not perfect and they have rough times like others sitting in the pew. Statistics show that 50% of all pastors marriages will end in divorce with approximately 40% of them having an affair at some point in their ministry. A pastor's child/PK will get in trouble and will not always be the little angel that everyone dreams of having. Often times they get in trouble because of the youth in their own church. Pray against discouragement and that you pastor will be filled with joy and wisdom. Pray for your pastor's health and well being. Just as you are praying blessings there are others praying curses upon the pastor.
Second, honor your pastor's time as he prepares for Sunday and spends time with his family. Many pastoral families miss their dad or mom being at events or even family meals because of emergencies and church obligations. The time with family is precious because children spell love-TIME. Encourage your pastor to take vacations and time off from ministry obligations. As a bi-vocational pastor my average week between my work and the church was ninety hours a week. Even after leaving my career I would average over sixty hours per week doing ministry. To prepare a good sermon can take as much time as twenty hours a week by the time you consider the prayer time, research, preparation, and more time of prayer. Once while at another church I heard someone tell their pastor that all they had to do was work three hours a week what was the big deal. Being a pastor goes way beyond the Sunday morning service into the dark hours of the laboring in prayer for the flock. Pastors are on call twenty-four hours a day every day.
Third, honor your commitments to the church and the pastor. If you say that you are going to do something then follow through and do not leave the pastor holding the bag. One of the things I have noticed as a follower of Jesus is that promises are often hollow and of little value among believers. Let your yes be yes and your no be no.
Fourth, submit to your pastor so that his work may not be a burden but rather a joy (Heb 13:17). None of us agree totally with those that are over us yet we are to submit to their leadership. If you have a problem with something your pastor is doing or has said, then go and talk with him. We may not agree with their rational or methods but we are to support them unless it is against Scripture. Then, if it is a matter of Scripture, then we deal with the issue with grace and love. Too often we share our discontent with others instead of going to the source, which leads to seeds of strife being sown. The lack of submission is one reason we have so many church splits and we are not one as Jesus prayed we should be (John 17).
Finally, be that mighty person of valor for your pastor. Stand in the gap when they are weary and discouraged. Protect them from the daggers of hurtful words. Rebuke those that speak ill of the pastor and his family. Above all love them and show them the same grace Jesus has shown towards each of us. They are men and women that Jesus has given as a gift to the local church, honor them
There are many other things I could write about how to honor and support your pastor. Most of all love them, show grace at all times, pray for them, and stand with them as they participate with you in the expansion of God's kingdom.
If you would like more information on how to honor your pastor please feel free to contact me.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Pastor Appreciation-for Pastors
In the month of October many churches will honor and celebrate their pastor. As a pastor I always had mixed emotions about Pastor Appreciation Sunday. First, I never wanted the focus to be on me but on Christ. My constant prayer was that I would become less and He would become greater in my life. Second, handling public praise was difficult because I knew where the anointing originated. Finally, and this is being very honest, you could not help but notice the number of cards or well wishes did not equal the number of people you served. This lack of recognition could create some hurt, again being honest. On those occasions I would have to remind myself who I was truly serving and recognize not everyone in a church will see me as their pastor. Those that are not in covenant relationship will receive the gift of a good sermon, an encouraging word, help during difficult times, and other ministry as needed. However, those that are in covenant relationship will receive the blessing. Blessings last a lifetime and have kingdom impact.
Today, there are many pastors that wonder about their calling, are carrying heavy burdens, their finances are tight, their marriages are struggling, and their children show signs of falling away. These men and women of God are shown little appreciation and feel all alone at times. Pastor you are not alone. There are men and women who pray for you that you will never meet. As they drive by your church they pray blessings and pray against the curses of the enemy. In our own community, the Triad, pastors gather together to pray for other pastors. We may be working in different rows but it is in the same field, working for the same LORD. We are not competing one against another because our only competition is Satan for souls. We are co-laboroers working for the kingdom. Your success is not determined by the size of your ministry but by your faithfulness to the things to which you have been called. The Father so loves you!
To those pastors that I have sat under, thank you. To all the priests who served their parishes with love and faithfulness, thank you because you placed the desire to serve in a young boy's heart. Rev. Kearse you taught me to love the Word of God not knowing that one day I would serve as a pastor. Pastor Marvin, you modelled how to love the least of these and how to have a pastor's heart for the community. You also gave me the first opportunity to preach for which I will be forever grateful. Pastor Bobby, you blessed me more than you can imagine by your love and adopting me as a spiritual son. Bishop Tommy, thank you for being my pastor and friend and praying for me during turbulent times.
To the pastor who I have not met, you are loved and our prayers are with you. Your service and sacrifice is appreciated by those that you serve and most of all by your Father in heaven. Thank you for being there when it was your day off or it meant missing yet another family outing. Thank you for sharing your life with those that Jesus has placed in your life. Thank you for praying in the middle of the night for one of your flock. Thank you for modelling Jesus before the congregation. Thank you for loving the hurting and broken. Thank you for loving the sheep, even when they bite.
I keep this quote by Matthew Simpson in the front of my Bible, "His throne is the pulpit; he stands in Christ stead; his messge is the word of God; around him immortal souls; the Savior, unseen beside him; angels Gaze upon the scene, and heaven and hell await the Issue. What associations, and what vast Responsibility." Pastor great is your reward!
You are loved and if you ever need prayer please contact me and I will pray with you and for you. May His face shine upon you as you serve Him.
Today, there are many pastors that wonder about their calling, are carrying heavy burdens, their finances are tight, their marriages are struggling, and their children show signs of falling away. These men and women of God are shown little appreciation and feel all alone at times. Pastor you are not alone. There are men and women who pray for you that you will never meet. As they drive by your church they pray blessings and pray against the curses of the enemy. In our own community, the Triad, pastors gather together to pray for other pastors. We may be working in different rows but it is in the same field, working for the same LORD. We are not competing one against another because our only competition is Satan for souls. We are co-laboroers working for the kingdom. Your success is not determined by the size of your ministry but by your faithfulness to the things to which you have been called. The Father so loves you!
To those pastors that I have sat under, thank you. To all the priests who served their parishes with love and faithfulness, thank you because you placed the desire to serve in a young boy's heart. Rev. Kearse you taught me to love the Word of God not knowing that one day I would serve as a pastor. Pastor Marvin, you modelled how to love the least of these and how to have a pastor's heart for the community. You also gave me the first opportunity to preach for which I will be forever grateful. Pastor Bobby, you blessed me more than you can imagine by your love and adopting me as a spiritual son. Bishop Tommy, thank you for being my pastor and friend and praying for me during turbulent times.
To the pastor who I have not met, you are loved and our prayers are with you. Your service and sacrifice is appreciated by those that you serve and most of all by your Father in heaven. Thank you for being there when it was your day off or it meant missing yet another family outing. Thank you for sharing your life with those that Jesus has placed in your life. Thank you for praying in the middle of the night for one of your flock. Thank you for modelling Jesus before the congregation. Thank you for loving the hurting and broken. Thank you for loving the sheep, even when they bite.
I keep this quote by Matthew Simpson in the front of my Bible, "His throne is the pulpit; he stands in Christ stead; his messge is the word of God; around him immortal souls; the Savior, unseen beside him; angels Gaze upon the scene, and heaven and hell await the Issue. What associations, and what vast Responsibility." Pastor great is your reward!
You are loved and if you ever need prayer please contact me and I will pray with you and for you. May His face shine upon you as you serve Him.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Repairer of Broken Walls
Yesterday while in prayer at C3 Church in Greensboro I began thinking about one of the words they have on the their front wall, Repair. As I began to pray about the word, Repair, the Holy Spirit led me to Isaiah 58:9-12. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you as you read through that passage. Meditate upon this word for the church. The yoke that the church oftens burdens people with is the yoke of performance, legalism, and man made traditions which all equate to religion. Pure religion is how we look after the widow and orphan while keeping ourselves from the influence of the world (Jas 1:27). In many ways we have added to the Word of God just as the Pharisees did in their time, adding burdens that most people cannot carry. The pointing of the finger is the spirit of the elder brother that has infected the church. The elder brother does not accept the returning prodigal sibling in love with joy but in judgment and condemnation. We are exhorted to gently restore a fallen brother and bear their burdens with them (Gal 6:1-2) and not turn them away from the church because they are not like us.
The promise of God is conditional concerning the restoration of the walls. Repair of the walls begins with the ministry to the least of these. We are to look after those who are broken and in need. Unfortunately, it is much easier to support a missionary in a foreign country than support the mission in our own community. One of my greatest joys is ministering to those that are in need. Years ago while giving groceries to a woman I asked her if I could pray for her. Her response was that Christians don't care about people like her. When I asked why Christians don't care about people like her she said she had AIDS, had been a prostitute, an IV drug user, and had been in prison and Christians just don't care about people like her. My response was that Jesus loved her and that I loved her and she allowed me the blessing of holding her hand and praying with her. In that moment of time the kingdom of God was at hand and she could sense the love of the Father. Blessings follow the ministry to the least of these and the church is in much need of blessings today.
As we repair the walls of the church we are laying a foundation for future generations. Today we are leaving our children a broken institution with a form of godliness but with no power. One of the questions that I like to ask teens is, do you believe there is more to Christianity than what you see in the adults around you? Generally the response is, if this is all there is to Christianity then I want nothing to do with it. There is so much more if we just go back to the words of Jesus. He came to give us abundant life not a life focused on ourselves.
The walls of the church are broken and are in need of repair. God is seeking those that are willing "to put their shoulders to the work of the Lord" (Neh 3:5 NKJV). To repair the walls of the church we must have a mind to work with a trowel in one hand and the sword of the Spirit in the other hand. Are you willing to put your shoulder to the task before you? The work is difficult but the rewards are amazing.
The promise of God is conditional concerning the restoration of the walls. Repair of the walls begins with the ministry to the least of these. We are to look after those who are broken and in need. Unfortunately, it is much easier to support a missionary in a foreign country than support the mission in our own community. One of my greatest joys is ministering to those that are in need. Years ago while giving groceries to a woman I asked her if I could pray for her. Her response was that Christians don't care about people like her. When I asked why Christians don't care about people like her she said she had AIDS, had been a prostitute, an IV drug user, and had been in prison and Christians just don't care about people like her. My response was that Jesus loved her and that I loved her and she allowed me the blessing of holding her hand and praying with her. In that moment of time the kingdom of God was at hand and she could sense the love of the Father. Blessings follow the ministry to the least of these and the church is in much need of blessings today.
As we repair the walls of the church we are laying a foundation for future generations. Today we are leaving our children a broken institution with a form of godliness but with no power. One of the questions that I like to ask teens is, do you believe there is more to Christianity than what you see in the adults around you? Generally the response is, if this is all there is to Christianity then I want nothing to do with it. There is so much more if we just go back to the words of Jesus. He came to give us abundant life not a life focused on ourselves.
The walls of the church are broken and are in need of repair. God is seeking those that are willing "to put their shoulders to the work of the Lord" (Neh 3:5 NKJV). To repair the walls of the church we must have a mind to work with a trowel in one hand and the sword of the Spirit in the other hand. Are you willing to put your shoulder to the task before you? The work is difficult but the rewards are amazing.
Monday, September 26, 2011
The Making of a Disciple
As a young boy all I wanted to do was be a priest in the Catholic Church. I would practice doing mass, listening to confession, and serving communion to my very young congregation of brothers and sisters. As an altar boy there was no greater privilege than talking with a priest before and after mass. These servants of God were always kind, understanding, patient, and very human, i.e., tired, over-worked, and stressed out. As I began to grow in my faith and understanding of the Church I began to have questions. As one author said, I was pregnant with faith but there was no one to deliver it. My questions were not deep in nature but important to me, why would God create beautiful women then say you cannot marry them and be a priest, how could a man in Rome be closer to God than I decided I wanted to be, how could I be perfect enough to serve God? As I have gotten older I am better equipped to answer my own questions. Today, I serve God while being married to a beautiful woman, my relationship with God is my responsibility, and love and grace are the words that cover my imperfections.
During my life I have heard the voice of the Holy Spirit and felt His leading without really knowing who it was nudging me. Even when I was out in the world I experienced the voice of the Holy Spirit saying that I was to be in His house leading His people. Finally, after much nudging and prayer I finally responded to the promptings of God and went from being a believer in Jesus Christ to becoming a follower of Jesus. Each time I have responded to the promptings of the Holy Spirit another transition has taken place. My goal is to become a disciple that gets so close to Jesus that the dust of His feet gets on me as I seek to follow Him.
Like me, there are many others in the church, Protestant and Catholic, feeling the nudge of the Holy Spirit and like me they do not know how to respond. The church has been great at winning souls but we have not done a very good job of making disciples, yet, making disciples is the command of Jesus. If we had been effective at making disciples our communities would be transformed, poverty would be eliminated, the family would remain intact, the church would not be in turmoil, and the kingdom of God would be expanding. True disciples would rather serve than be served, they would love their neighbors and not condemn them, they would be doing all that Jesus commanded and finally they would be making disciples through relationships.
Our challenge today is no different than what the original disciples faced. The way to develop disciples is by developing relationships investing our time, resources, and gifts in new believers. There are many teachers in the world but few fathers. Let us become mothers and fathers to a generation of new believers helping them to respond to the nudging of the Holy Spirit.
During my life I have heard the voice of the Holy Spirit and felt His leading without really knowing who it was nudging me. Even when I was out in the world I experienced the voice of the Holy Spirit saying that I was to be in His house leading His people. Finally, after much nudging and prayer I finally responded to the promptings of God and went from being a believer in Jesus Christ to becoming a follower of Jesus. Each time I have responded to the promptings of the Holy Spirit another transition has taken place. My goal is to become a disciple that gets so close to Jesus that the dust of His feet gets on me as I seek to follow Him.
Like me, there are many others in the church, Protestant and Catholic, feeling the nudge of the Holy Spirit and like me they do not know how to respond. The church has been great at winning souls but we have not done a very good job of making disciples, yet, making disciples is the command of Jesus. If we had been effective at making disciples our communities would be transformed, poverty would be eliminated, the family would remain intact, the church would not be in turmoil, and the kingdom of God would be expanding. True disciples would rather serve than be served, they would love their neighbors and not condemn them, they would be doing all that Jesus commanded and finally they would be making disciples through relationships.
Our challenge today is no different than what the original disciples faced. The way to develop disciples is by developing relationships investing our time, resources, and gifts in new believers. There are many teachers in the world but few fathers. Let us become mothers and fathers to a generation of new believers helping them to respond to the nudging of the Holy Spirit.
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