Pastor Mike Johnson's Faith Journey Adventure

No More Window Shots

2011-10-12T09:57:00.000-07:00

Outside of my office window there is a plum tree. This is the time of year that the tree casts its fruit on the ground where the fermentation process is well on its way. What follows in inevitable. The birds swoop in and gorge themselves on the now-thin-skinned fruit, literally into an eating frenzy.

Then the window hits commence...

Monday morning I had two between 8:30 and 9 AM. More followed that days and the next. Basically, the birds become drunk off of the fruit and literally go nuts.

It's a reminder to me of our lives the past several years. During days of plenty prior to the recession, our community gorged itself on nearly everything that was available to us. We got so caught up in what was around us that when the times turned too many found themselves crashing out of control into anything hard that was nearby us.

Sin has a way of doing that. It's great for a season as we gorge ourselves on the rush or temporary satisfaction it provides. But after it runs it's course, it's a dead end street with no outlet - except to go back the way we came.

I remember in driver's ed learning how to navigate a three point turn, perfect for getting out of a dead end street. I've used it many times and have become deft at getting turned around in tight spots, even when we had large SUV's. What's most exciting about the remedy for sin is that it doesn't require a three point turn, but a one-eighty. Yes, I'm speaking of a complete turnaround; going one direction and then to be completely turned around and facing another in a moment's notice. There is only one requirement; to appropriate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ in our spiritual heart.

No more window shots...

We Are One

2011-09-28T14:12:00.000-07:00

Our son Zach is starting his sophomore year at a new school,Oregon State University. Its been a dream of his to attend there, andafter playing baseball at a small college in Washington, he is finally getting his chance to be where he's always wanted to be.

Going to a new school is always a bit of a challenge; a new city, new campus andfinding new friends. The friend part ofthis equation hasn't been a big deal. When we talked the other day, the weekend before classes started I askedwhere he was. He said he was hanging outwith a bunch of kids from Bend Sr. High.

At first glance that doesn't seem like an issue. But Zach went to Mountain View High School;Bend Sr. High's cross-town rival. Andthen he noted that the kid who broke his collarbone in football during both hissophomore and senior years of high school in football games was also there(yes, SAME kid, two different years).

Hummmmm...

I remember those two games quite vividly. Our son was a quarterback. His sophomore year he had thrown the ball andgot utterly destroyed on what we clearly believe as a late hit (I know, sounds like a parent, huh?).

Yes, I still feel a bit of "wailing and gnashing ofteeth" on my part... That one madeus sick because it was unnecessary.

Broken right clavicle. Done for the rest of the year.

Senior year rolled around and the big game arrived with bothschools undefeated. Near the end of thefirst half, Zach was setting up to pass on a play that some observers call a"quarterback killer." Basically the defensive end on the left side is bumped and thequarterback has to get rid of the ball quickly or he will be drilled in theback. The only problem was no one wasopen and Zach held the ball too long and the end didn't get 'bumped.' This time is was a clean, full-sprint hitthat broke his left clavicle.

Senior season over. Dreams of playing college football effectively finished.

So, Zach was hanging out with this kid...

Last Sunday we were in John 10 where we will be this comingweekend as well. It's Jesus' wordpicture of the person of the "Good Shepherd" and how is fulfills thatrole in every way. Part of that allegorycenters around the shepherd leading his flock out of the sheep-pen. The sheep know the voice of the shepherd, soeven if the flock is intermingled with that of another shepherd, the sheep knowwhom to follow. And so they move out together,as a unit. The irony is that even thoughthey move out together, sheep can be ornery! They bite, nip, kick and do assorted other deeds to one another. And yet under the direction of theirshepherd, they fall into line and are "one."

Sadly, Oregon State's football team ishaving a difficult year already, reminiscent of previous years (decades!) offutility. And so here are the kids from Mountain View and Bend Sr.High, former rivals who are now under the same proverbial roof together, sufferingtogether through a tough football season, cheering and crying alongside oneanother. College has a funny way of unitingpeople who were once rivals.

They are one...

In Christ, we come from all different walks of life, wedrive different cars and live in apartments, condos and homes, large andsmall. We come from a wide range ofeconomic backgrounds and ages. But wefollow the voice of the Good Shepherd. Even though we may bite, nip, kick, or do whatever else we do...we areone.

Addendum: By the way, we are FINE with our son NOT playing football in college. We believe that the ability to walk and not have brain damage later in life is a good thing!

A Letter from PM to Faith

2011-09-13T15:43:00.001-07:00

Hi Friends,

We're in the downhill week leading up to "Back to ChurchSunday!" I trust you've all invited someone to be at Faith thisweekend. Our goal is to double our attendance in one day. I'veinvited more than one other family to be with us this weekend - I challenge youto do the same! If you haven't invited someone yet, please do soASAP! Do whatever you need to do to get people to Faith on Sunday! We need EVERYONE to participate!

And remember, "ONLY INVITE PEOPLE WHO DON'T REGULARLY ATTEND CHURCHANYWHERE." To do so would be morally wrong!

Also on Sunday we'll be having a brief overview of our new Faith ConnectionsClasses (adult Sunday School) along with baptisms during our specialweekend. And no, we will not be holding back in embracing our worshipsongs during the service. We want all of our guest to "ExperienceAuthentic Faith!"

That's right, no "bait and switch!"

It has been a pleasure to have Jesus do some incredibly cool stuff in ourmeetings the last several weeks. People continue to come to Christ andlives and physical bodies have been changed. We are so grateful to Godfor what's happening! We want to share His goodness in our lives withothers. Pray with me for revival to break out in our church and that our city wouldbe transformed! The best is yet to come!

I'm continuing to dream about a Bible College and re-trainingministry taking place through Faith. There are some opportunities that wehave to take hold of in the days ahead to create an environment for thesethings to happen. I'm asking everyone to pray, asking God to move us intoHis purposes for our church and region. We need for some miracles to takeplace. The good news is that we've even had a miracle take place today -so we're used to it! Please hear me, our greatest opportunities lie justahead of us...

I want to thank everyone who came to our brief training session last Sundayfor our "First Impressions" Ministry teams for Ushers, Greeters andFollow Up. Thanks also to the majority of you who signed up toparticipate in these valuable endeavors.

I also would like to thank everyone who had been part of our children'scenter remodel. We're at the phase where every change that happensdownstairs is dramatic. The theme rooms have all required a great deal ofcarpentry, painting and artistic work. Pastor Steve and Sharon Henninghave led this project with creativity and diligence. We're also excitedand working hard to meet our REVEAL GOAL date of SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH. It's going to be a great day at Faith!

God's best to you this week in getting your friends, family and co-workersto church this weekend. We're literally changing our church culture inbeing more intentional about sharing the GREAT NEWS we have with others!

You Are Loved,

PM

It Was Hilarious Until I Used my Brain

2011-09-12T14:16:00.000-07:00

I'm sure it started out as something quite funny. Political humor has a way of touching all ofus on some surface level. It all hingeson whom we voted for and how it makes our selection look. It's at about this point we respond with hystericsor with indignity over someone saying how ridiculous our point of viewlooks. Recently I was made aware of abumper sticker running around our area that is humorous at first glance. But then I did engaged my brain and realizedhow wrong my first response was. Here isthe message:

Pray for President Obama - Psalm109:8

It really looks quite spiritual until you realize what Psalm 109 actuallysays. The Bible itself speaks of prayingfor those who are in authority over us (1 Timothy 2:1-4) - specificallyreferencing government (v.2), there is something quite awful in the admonitionabove. The passage says (my paraphrase),

"Let his days be few and letanother take his office."

[Insert laughter or indignation here]

After you get over yourself, what the Psalmist is writing about is an enemyto himself and Israel. There is also a context to this passagethat the Psalmist wants this enemy to not only be removed from office, but alsofrom the planet.

That's right, dead.

Verse nine and those that follow says things like, "May his children beorphans and his wife a widow," and, "May his creditors takeeverything he has." The passagegoes on and on from there, basically to make the man's grave a latrine for thecommunity (yes, my overview of the rest of the chapter!).

Here's what it does; it makes Christians of a conservative bent look awful,ignorant and reckless. In essence, aweak-minded person reading such a bumper sticker is implored to embrace theconcept that it would be a good thing for our President to die in office or beassassinated.

[Cease laughing here]

Yes, I know that's an extreme view, but remember the reason for oursolemnity on the ten year anniversary of 9/11 was because of the actions of'extreme' people. Those acts, based onan extreme premise were wrong ten years ago. The premise of this bumpersticker, which unconscionably has also appeared on church reader board signs inour country, is just as wrong today.

What if someone takes this stuff seriously? The hard truth is, in the midst of laughter or indignation of suchhumor, someone probably already has...

I pray that no one takes up this rhetoric, putting it into action.

Full disclosure: I did not vote for our President. That was my decision, not as a pastor but as acitizen. I do not agree with many of hispositions on the issues or policies that reinforce where we disagree. The truth is, some of his perspectives Idisagree with quite severely. I also detest things written about our leadership that are either untrue or unfair, regardless of whether I voted for them or not. Regardless,the Scripture is clear that I am to pray for those in authority. Some will argue that our President has apersonal agenda, that he is using his office to put forth some sort of sinisterplot to bring Americainto ruin.

I mean, really?

The thinking is he has thereby disqualified himself from receiving thebenefit of the prayers of Christians. However, I would insist that we get our headsout of the proverbial sand and look at the time when the Apostle Paul wrotethis stuff to Timothy 2,000 years ago. Political leaders were in it for themselves. What they were up to openly was so much worsethan what conspiracy theorists can conjure up right now of what the Presidentmight be doing in private.

Do I believe that the President has some sort of plot for the downfall ofthe nation? No. Do I believe that he has at least a socialisticbent of some kind? Yes - most biggovernment proponents do; and that's the nature of his political party. What I do know for certain is this: he waselected by the American people, is our President and therefore worthy of ourprayers - especially in difficult times like we're in.

Pray for our President, that he would be wise enough to listen to godlycounsel and that his decisions, now and in the future, will have a basis intruth and what is right for the country. Pray that God would bless him, his family andthereby bless the American people through him. And yes, pray for his health and protection.

And yes, please use your brain when you bring God into any equation...thisone was funny and ignorant at the same time, bringing a blight on the Bible andChristianity.

[Pause here for reflection]

A Letter from PM to Faith

2011-09-08T10:05:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

This weekend at 9:30 AM at Faith we'll be having a congregation-wide training time for our "First Impressions" Teams. That refers to our Greeters, Ushers and Follow Up Ministry. EVERYONE in the church should know how to participate in these areas as they are vital in our outreach to our community. It also creates an environment where you are literally involved in a form of evangelism, helping to make a difference in the "fruit-bearing" portion of your Christian life.

If you have children who are old enough to greet people at the door, work our information centers or help usher people to their seats, PLEASE BRING THEM if you think they would be interested. They are part of the church too and need to have a ministry!

As I close I need to ask if you've invited your family, friend or co-worker to Faith on "Back to Church Sunday" on September 18th? Pull out all the stops and do whatever you can to get people to church. Tell them we're having a special day at Faith (because we are); tell them we're doing something cool with thousands of other churches across the country (because we are); tell them that they'll hear great music and a meaningful message about who God is (because they will).. Bring them to church or tell them where you will meet them at Faith when they arrive. Ask people to come to church right away so they can clear their calendars. That's right, don't invite people who go to church elsewhere, but those who don't go anywhere on a regular basis. That's who were after...and so is Jesus!

I'm so excited because, the best is yet to come!

PM

Ivy League, Grandbabies & Close to Home

2011-09-07T16:42:00.000-07:00

When a family gets to a certain point, difficult decisions must be made.

It begins when your children start thinking about colleges. The letters seem to begin arriving about their sophomore year of high school. Inquiries about attending a military academy or in our case, Christian colleges began arriving at our home. Our kids love getting the mail. They look at the brochures and begin thinking about their futures.

As they should.

As a parent, you think it's pretty cool and heady stuff, until of course you begin to think about what an education really costs these days. One thing is for sure, it makes you a praying parent. But then along the way your kids start expressing interest in a school halfway, or ALL THE WAY across the country. It's exciting. It's fascinating. You get excited for them and their hopes and dreams. And then the thought crosses your mind:

"If they go to school 'back there,' will they meet their lifelong mate and WHERE WILL THEY LIVE??"

All of the sudden, visions of seeing your future grandkids once in a blue moon becomes a startling reality. When my brother's kids went to Minneapolis for college from the Seattle area, I thought nothing of it. I actually said, "Good for them" when I heard it. Then one stayed back there for a career and the other one now lives in Alaska where she is likely to remain the rest of her life. My brother has been talking about moving to Arizona. But I'm wondering if my sister-in-law is having second thoughts. Anyway you stack it, the plane ticket is a longer ride and therefore, more expensive.

And yes, when those grandbabies start coming, they are a half-continent away.

It's all about squeezing those grandkids and doing what our parents did to our own children; spoiling them so badly that they are completely useless for three weeks after they go home. I guess that's why having grandchildren is so important. You get to spoil them to get back at your own children for ruining large sections of your peace and solitude.

So important decisions must be made...you must decide what mail is "appropriate" in your home and what mail is not. Anything from a college more than a four hour drive from your home should be carefully placed near a garbage receptacle so that it could possibly be bumped into the can itself. It's really an easy thing to do. Frequently clean your counters so they are always dry, never sticky and always super slick. If static electricity would help make the paper move a little easier, we have the Internet for you to figure out how to make that work. Make sure that a corner of the contraband is hanging off the edge too. Maybe your child will unknowingly do it themselves, knocking it into the garbage. Maybe the moment it falls into the can it would be a good time to dump out last week's leftover gravy on top of the offending literature, just to make sure it doesn't get fished out by some chance. Oh yes, be sure not to use all of the gravy on one letter through; colleges half-way across the country seem to send mail when you least expect it. Heaven forbid your kid should get good grades because those letters will come from farther away, more frequently, and COST A LOT MORE should they want to go Ivy League on you. Perish the thought! I don't know, it just sounds like a good time to triple the batches of gravy being prepared in our home...even if you don't have anything to put the gravy on besides offensive mail from "somewhere else state university."

It's true, important decisions need to be made by families; but isn't that what being a family is all about? The journey, the wonder of those whom you've been given charge over by God are so often a mystery. We don't always know where our kids are headed to, especially during the days that are so trying. But they grow up and have dreams, some of which you've put into them along the way; and off they go on their great Faith Journey Adventure. I don't know where the three we've raised will end up. I have no clue about future grandkids right now. In the end, the most important decision I need to make on behalf of my family is that I will pray for them and let them go. Somewhere along the way they'll find God's will for their lives and the joy that comes from being in the center of His will.

But Lord, I'd sure like it if they did all that stuff close to home!

"Wrangler Nation"

2011-09-06T15:48:00.000-07:00

"Finally joined 'Wrangler Nation.' Not quite sure how I feel about it."

That's a post from our oldest son Zach on his Facebook account the other day. He's up in Ephrata, Washington working on his grandfather's farm, scrimping his last few dollars together before college starts up again this fall.

He joined "Wrangler Nation" because he burned through a pair of used American Eagles' after two days. Come to think of it, aren't all new "fashion" jeans used, or do they just look that way?

I commented on his post because it dawned on me that now he would actually be 'wearing' his pants. Around his waist. Yup, here in Central Oregon, the boys still wear the baggy pants that ride about half-mast over their hind-ends... And I know that young men all over the country currently like the 'drooping, what-color-undies-do-I-have-on look.' It's just a cultural thing, like the long hair that my classmates and I used to sport back-in-the-day.

Funny, long hair is making a comeback...I wish I had the ability to re-join the culture!

You see, really, that's what this is all about - culture. My own Dad wore a crew cut for several years after high school because that was his culture. So I commented that the boy would need to wear his Wranglers like "normal" people do (MY culture), around his waist. One of his college teammates from last year wrote, "Like old men?"

Ouch.

I am forever reminded of what is "timeless" and what is "timely." Timeless are traffic laws; timely are car colors. Timeless is enjoying and remembering the hair of our youth; timely is having enough hair to comb after we've matured. Timeless is the Gospel of Jesus; timely is when and how we present it...

Pants? Humorously I pray that Wrangler Nation rubs off on our oldest, but in the end it's just pants. What is timeless and timely at the same time is the response of the human soul to the Gospel story. In the end, that's really all that matters.

Yup, half-mast and going to heaven trumps a hell-bound-belted-waist every time...

Catch Up

2011-08-25T10:05:00.000-07:00

As mentioned last week we're gearing up for the Fall and getting ready to 2012. A good deal of my activity right now has to do with what are called, "Church Systems." It refers to things like ushering, greeting, follow up, leadership training and a whole array of areas that keep a local congregation moving forward.

Most of us have systems in our lives that keep things moving ahead smoothly. I enjoy gardening. A system that I have in my life is that certain things need to happen during specific times during the year for my yard and garden to do what they're supposed to do - LOOK NICE.

Yes, I know I'm shouting.

If I don't stay on top of this system, bad things happen; weeds grow out of control and I end up playing catch up all Summer long. On top of that, if I'm playing catch up and take a week off away from home for vacation, that puts me waaaay behind.

Think of your child and your relationship with them. They don't need a parent playing "catch up" with them; they need someone who is ever present, guiding them and helping them toward maturity in every way. A child's success in life is directly influenced by their catching and applying the excellent counsel and wisdom - or the neglect and poor life skills - that we pour into them.

God doesn't play catch up with us. He is ever present. His counsel and wisdom are unmatched. Are we listening? Or do we find ourselves making the same mistakes over and over again, trying to play catch up in our listening?

My puny thoughts on these questions are to simply sit at our Lord's feet, hear Him speak into our hearts, and begin to voraciously get into what He is saying to us through His Word. Be in church and Bible study to be under teaching that encourages and grows you up in the faith. Oh yes, pick a translation of the Bible you can understand. It will make all the difference! And all of this is a life system worth keeping up on. Your life and that of others who are watching you depend on it...

Smokin'

2011-08-24T14:54:00.000-07:00

Our city is smokin' right now...

And it's really bad too. Lava Butte on the South end of town has had a fire going on about 70 acres for 24 hours now. It's surrounded by, well, lava flows, so the fire can't escape. That means the fire service is letting it burn out. That also means that every asthma patient within 100 miles is suffering severely. Our receptionist here at Faith has been on her inhaler "like it's candy."

Her words, not mine.

I have a breakfast I attend with some of our guys from Faith every Wednesday morning. I came out of the restaurant at 7:15 AM and nearly coughed up a lung on my way to the car. We're begging for the thunderstorms to commence this afternoon that the weatherman teased us with this morning. It would certainly help us with the smoke, not to mention the lawns that are presently drying up.

But the truth is, we really have nothing to complain about...

Winter was really long and wet this year. It snowed the first week of July. Finally, FINALLY we got some really nice weather and we've had no rain for about a month now. And so of course, we look for other things to complain about.

I shared one of my favorite quotes on Sunday with the people at Faith; "If you're content with what you have, you'll never pay full price for what you want." I want to believe that somehow this quote somehow relates to the weather too, but it's really a stretch. Central Oregonians live in one of the most beautiful places on the planet. People who were not content in other parts of this world, i.e. California (insert laughter here by every native Oregonian), move to Central Oregon in droves. It's an amazing place to live. The sun always comes out. But it also means that during this time of year our contentment is challenged by the wild fires that are most often produced by dry storms and lightening strikes.

Unfortunately, in order to have one form of beauty, you often need to put up with "another" difficulty that comes along with it. The San Francisco Bay Area has weather and earthquakes, Atlanta is an amazing metropolitan city but is also known as "Hotlanta" this time of year. In fact every time I've been to Phoenix where all the Pacific Northwest snowbirds fly for the winter, I've always been asked by the natives, "Why are you here?" I think it is because I always seem to wind up there in the summer...

There are trade-offs in this life in so many areas. The toughest part are our choices; to choose so well that the difficulties seem non-existent.

I have found one life choice that far outweighs perceived difficulty. Isaiah 61:3 tells us that God will exchange "beauty for ashes" through His Son, the Promised One of Israel. It's true. In Matthew 13, Jesus spoke of a businessman who was seeking fine pearls. When he found one of infinite value, he went home and sold everything so he could have it. That "pearl" is the Christ. No matter what happens in this life, no matter what people say about you or your faith, it is worth it all...

Addendum - Full Disclosure: Our kids are natives, my wife and I are foreigners...from Washington state. Yes I'm laughing too!

When the Bible Says Stuff I Don't Like

2011-08-23T15:25:00.000-07:00

In my reading to strengthen my personal life today I stumbled across one of those places in the Bible that I don't like. Basically it's because it hits me right between the eyes.

That happens more often than I'd like to admit...

I found myself reading Romans 13. The first seven verses speak of obeying our government and it's laws because God Himself put them in place over us. As I read the passage I suddenly saw all 40 political cartoons and emails I've received the last few weeks, insulting, calling out, deriding, castigating or making fun of our current leadership, pass before my eyes.

I think it's because I laughed at too many of them.

Okay, I laughed at ALL OF THEM...

The Apostle Paul explains that the government that God has allowed to be in place over our lives exists to help us do the right things, that He uses government to punish evil doers. It's a flawed proposition to think that our legal system works perfectly every time; but then again in my line of work I recognize that it is only by God's grace that any of us can stand.

I was thinking about the positions that our government has taken and signed into law that I believe are not only immoral but anti-Bible. We shout, "What about ____________ (you can fill in the blank for yourself)?" We want to grab hold of anything that we think is wrong so we can say that our government or leadership is ALL wrong. But then we must consider Paul, writing during a time when godless leaders dealt swiftly with evil doers, of whose system of law the American Republic has embraced as its model. Remember, during this writing the Romans themselves recognized slavery as being legal in certain circumstances. To think that Paul is writing this stuff under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit creates some difficulties for many of us who are destined to wear our trousers as high as our chests, move to Florida and complain about the government full-time...

Someone said a long time ago that we get the leadership that we deserve. The longer I walk with Jesus, the more I believe it's true. Bad leadership brings a nation to its knees to repent and pray. The Bible says we're supposed to be praying for our leaders anyway, much less ourselves. Have we ever wondered if the reason why we perceive things aren't going so well is because we haven't been lifting up our leaders up all along?

You know, it's sure painful when all of my self-righteousness gets sucked out of the room...

A Letter to Faith from Pastor Mike

2011-08-18T12:05:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited for what God has in store for us this Fall at Faith! I've been meeting with ministry leaders and moving ahead with a really cool new direction in 2012 that will radically transform who we are as followers of Jesus.

Before we get to the new year, we have some great opportunities to touch our community in a positive way. Saturday, August 28th from 11 AM to 2 PM is our annual "Back to School Block Party." We'll have all of our inflatables up that day, provide lunch, children's activities, and give away school supplies. We need "all hands on deck" for this one so we can get to know everyone who comes to Faith's parking lot on that special day.

The second event is our "Back to Church Sunday" event on September 18th. We're participating with thousands of churches across our country, inviting our family, friends and acquaintances to be at Faith on that special day. I've already invited my friends - how about you?

Did you know that 82% of those you invite will come to church with you? Did you also know that only 2% of all American Christians actually invite people to church. With stats like these we're reminded of how easy it is to step out and have a positive experience! Perhaps we should make every Sunday, "Back to Church Day?" Invite your friends that Sunday, it's going to be a great day!

The best is yet to come!

Oblivious to the Obvious

2011-04-07T10:47:00.000-07:00

A fresh blanket of snow covered our city, once again this morning. We are on an emergency weather alert with mountain passes, our link to the rest of the world, requiring chains on all vehicles.

It's a bit hilarious because we were just mandated by the state of Oregon to remove our studded tires the other day...

I came out to a flat on my wife's car, which means I pump up the tire, grab my portable compressor and toss it in the back. I'm driving her car today, which is my responsibility as the man. Lunch will be spent at the tire store today, or perhaps getting up early tomorrow and beating all those folks who are presently in violation of the law to the tire store.

After airing up the foul tire, I drove to the main intersection of our subdivision and cross street. As I looked each way, I couldn't help but notice the lovely snow crystals still on my windows, remains from what I had missed from scrapping this morning. I began pulling out, slamming on my breaks in time to see a white SUV turning left in front of me.

Never saw them coming until it was almost too late.

I tooled through a three traffic lights and began to fiddle with the heater that wasn't getting as warm as I'd like it to, slowing down to drive past the middle school. My head was down, looking at the climate control and speedometer as I rappidly decended to 20 mph.

That's when I saw the person coming up to the crosswalk...

I was legal as I motored through - but just barely. If I would have been paying attention, I would have stopped for them, so that I was in CLEAR compliance with the law. Bend's finest LOVE writing tickets for such violations - which we should all appreciate on a certain level...

Have you ever had those days where you feel like you're oblivious to the obvious?

I'm reminded to the phrase from our venacular, "Ninety percent of success is just showing up." I looked it up and Woody Allen said something like it, but even he can't decide if he said it first. But taking the phrase at face value, I think it's true to a certain point. And yet if going through the motions after your arrival is the other ten percent, we miss way to much...

We are on day seven of our church fast at Faith in Bend. Many of our people have been talking about hunger pains - and trust me, "I feel your pain!" (Sorry, couldn't resist.) But that isn't the point. I struggle with having all kinds of apparatus around me, everything in perfect order so I can function. So when I fast, I've got to have the program all laid out in front of me to accomplish my precious goals. I'm reminded that it's so easy to get caught up in the process that I miss the obvious behind why I am engaged in the process in the first place.

Lord, protect me, protect us from being oblivious to the obvious!

The Adventure Begins

2011-04-01T22:16:00.000-07:00

Today marks the beginning of a month long prayer and fasting emphasis at Faith Christian Center in Bend. I have been talking with several in the Church about what their plans and focuses were as we move through this special season, preparing our hearts for what Jesus would do on May 1st, a day of Expectancy of miracles and breakthroughs.

We had a similar day last year. It was a remarkable day of praying for Jesus to change hearts, lives and bodies, and for jobs and better jobs to come to pass. We give thanks for the change we've seen in our church and community since then. God has been so good to us! But we understand and know that the best is yet to come.

I was talking with someone at Faith the other day who said they were going to fast drinking pop. On the surface, that may not seem like a big deal, but it really was to this person. Their spouse confirmed that this persona drank A LOT of the sugared beverage. What is more, there will clearly be withdrawal issues related to this fast.

I can only imagine how their head is going to be feeling on Sunday, the third day of caffeine withdrawals...

But God has an incredible way of honoring those kinds of things.

The person was actually going to leverage God's help in their life during this season to overcome another life controlling habit on the horizon. I'm so proud of them.

Here is how it will work for them. During those times they would normally drink pop, they would pray through their prayer list (life, home, family, church, community), and ask Jesus to help them overcome the cravings that are so real during a fast.

I'm looking forward to breakthroughs in the life of this precious family at Faith BEFORE our special day, and for so many others.

Yes, the best is yet to come!

The Great Adventure of Fasting & Prayer

2011-03-30T14:45:00.001-07:00

Faith Christian Center is entering into a corporate fast and prayer season during the month of April, preparing for a “Miracle & Breakthrough” Sunday on May1st. We had the joy of experiencing such a Sunday in 2010 where hearts and lives changed in a moment’s notice. We have greater expectancy for what God will do in our lives, homes and places of business at this year’s event. If you are not an attender of Faith, I encourage you to follow along with this series of devotionals and tips during this time, praying for the church you attend…and perhaps for all of us at Faith!

1 Thessalonians 5:19-22 – ¹⁹“Do not quench the Spirit. ²⁰Do not despise prophecies, ²¹but test everything; hold fast what is good. ²²Abstain from every form of evil.”

As we prepare ourselves for a season of fasting and prayer at Faith, it’s important to keep in mind that where we begin spiritually may not be where we end up. In fact, the things that we start out with on our prayer list is likely to change as we pray during our meal times, or through whatever it is that you are fasting (see my blog, Monday, March 28^th for more information on fasting). You may even consider yourself to be an extremely spiritual person. But part of this journey is to yield ourselves to the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, recognizing that we are all still in the “perfecting” process as Christians.

In devotions this morning I read the above passage. It was a reminder to now quench the Spirit. We do this in so many ways. When we think we have all the answers, we quench the Spirit. When we function in this life within our own power to the neglect of the Spirit, we quench Him. When we do not spend time with Jesus and forget to listen to the voice of the Spirit, it’s just another form of quenching what He wants to do within us. The truth is, I can write and write and write for the next hour, making a list of ways we can quench the Spirit, and still not do the text justice.

I love Jesus. The fact that you’re reading this says that it is likely that you do as well. But our faith only begins with belief and love of the Savior. The godhead demands that we be permeated by the presence of God, that every aspect, every nuance of our lives is lived within the Holy Spirit. He leads, teaches, corrects, guides, prods, convicts…you get the picture.

It is my prayer that as we enter into this solemn season, that joy will break out in our lives as we invite the presence of the Spirit to impart to us in fresh, new ways. As contemporary music artist Steven Curtis Chapman sings, “This is the Great Adventure!”

"Fasting & Prayer"

2011-03-29T11:57:00.000-07:00

The following was shared at our “Men of Faith” Meeting on Tuesday, March 29th, 2011, in preparation for Faith’s church fasting and prayer season during the month of April.

Tami and I went to Schlotzky’s today for lunch. She ate something with jalapeno’s on it and her face turned red, along with red blotches on her chest. It’s not the heat, but her condition called dermatomyositis. It’s an autoimmune disorder where the body rejects it muscle and skin. She was having a flash. The end game is a lung and heart transplant, if she can qualify for one.

I have something to pray about.

My son Zach plays is a freshman in college. Need I say more?

My daughter Lauren went on a date week before last. Need I say more?

Kyle is driving now. He's a good driver, but a new driver. Any questions?

I have some things to pray about.

How about you?

We’re preparing for a special “Miracles & Breakthroughs” Sunday at Faith on May 1st. To get ready, starting Friday, April 1st, we’re challenging everyone who attends Faith to participate in a month of fasting and prayer. The following is a guideline for fasting that we’ve used extensively in the past. Please choose a form of fasting that is appropriate for you, and a schedule that works for you. For those with health issues or advanced age, please contact your doctor for guidance.

FORMS OF FASTING [This is the same material from 3.28.11 blog. More new information follows if you've already read this.]

For each form of fasting, it is understood that the individual who fasts will pray during those times that they give up food as an offering to the Lord. This means that you would find a place to pray, possibly write a journal to God, or do some other form of expression for our Savior during mealtimes, and/or other set times during your day. [As a side note, it may be more appropriate for you to give up an activity, something that dominates your life – which is also a form of fasting].

The following is a list of five kinds of fasts; the first three are actual forms of personal fasts, with the last two speaking of corporate calls. Again, this list is not meant to be exhaustive, but are provided for your understanding.

1. The Normal Fast.

A normal fast means abstaining from all food, solid or liquid, but not from water. This is possibly the type of fast that Jesus went on for those 40 days and nights in Matthew 4. Since the body can normally function no longer than three days without water, we assume that He drank water during this time. If you have never fasted before, you might try a juice fast, using "soft" juices like unsweetened apple or grape juice. Avoid juices with citric acid.

Bill Bright, founder of Campus Crusade for Christ went on his first 40-day fast in 1994. During that time he drank the fluid from boiled vegetables, receiving their natural vitamins in the process. Should you decide on an extended fast (seven days or longer), you may wish to use this method.

2. The Absolute Fast (Acts 9:9) "For three days he ... neither ate nor drank."

An absolute fast is abstaining from food and drink. Normally, this type of fast went on for no more than three days; any longer period may prove injurious to your health. (Ezra 10:6; Esther 4:16; Acts 9:9). In these instances the fast of food and drink occurred in the midst of great crises or change.

3. The Partial Fast (Daniel 10:3) "I ate no delicacies, no meat or wine entered my mouth."

The emphasis here is on restriction of diet rather than complete abstinence. Daniel 10:2-3 tells of a special season of seeking God with a restricted diet. This is an excellent way to begin if you have never fasted before, or have health issues. A partial fast could also include cutting out one or two meals during the day, or the elimination of foods that you enjoy eating on a regular basis. If you choose to allow your children to participate in this fast, you might remove candy or ice cream from their diet.

4. Congregational Fast (Joel 2:15-16)

This is the kind of fast that our church will be participating in. Joel 2 says, "Blow a trumpet in Zion, declare a holy fast, call a sacred assembly. Gather the people, consecrate the assembly." NIV

At least a part of the congregation of the church at Antioch were fasting together in Acts 13:2, as evidenced by Luke's words, "While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting."

During our fast, there will be normal fasts, absolute fasts, and partial fasts taking place throughout the congregation. The prayer focus is based on a sense of the leading of the Spirit over the previous several months by the pastor and other church leaders.

5. National Fasts (2 Chronicles 20:3).

Here is the response of King Jehoshaphat to an invasion in 2 Chronicles 20:3: "Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah."

The Jews were called to a national fast in Nehemiah 9:1 and Esther 4:16, and the king of Nineveh proclaimed a fast in response to the message of Jonah.

Over the course of our fast, please check back with this blog for tips and devotions to encourage/enhance your experience. You have the address on your sheet.

Let’s look at some Scripture:

Luke 18:1 - One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.

Jesus never asked us to do what He wouldn’t do Himself. The gospels depict 23 unique instances where Jesus prayed. Each one is an amazing window on whom the Savior is. We can make a big deal about praying like Jesus. And yet I admonish each of us to learn how to pray like…whom God has made us to be.

The following is from Enrichment Journal [Spring 2011, pp. -35] in an article by our General Superintendent, George O. Wood titled, “A Better Way to Pray – Praying Like Jesus.”

On February 9, 1958, a young Assemblies of God pastor in a rural town in Pennsylvania was watching the late show on TV while his wife and small children were asleep. On that night he evaluated his life. How much time am I spending in front of the TV each night? he asked himself. A couple of hours at least. What if I sold the TV set and spent that time praying? The next morning he and his wife agreed to sell their TV if, after putting the ad in the paper, it sold within ½ hour after the paper hit the streets.

At the 29th minute the phone rang. “How much?”

The young pastor had not even thought of the price — but he instantly said, “$100.”

The caller said, “I’ll take it. I’ll be there in 15 minutes.”

On February 25, a late Tuesday evening near the end of his prayer time — just 2 weeks and 2 days after the decision to sell the TV — this young pastor was in his study praying and began to feel a great heaviness. He felt an urge to pick up Life magazine, but resisted at first because he didn’t want to fall into a trap of reading a magazine on his prayer time. He had been fidgeting that evening — his wife and children had been away visiting grandparents in Pittsburgh. The magazine beckoned to him from his desk. Finally, he said, “Lord, is there something You want me to see?” He sat down in his brown swivel chair and opened the magazine.

He leafed along and came to a page that at first seemed to have nothing to interest him. It carried a pen drawing of a trial taking place 350 miles away in New York City — a place he had never been. The eyes of one of the seven figures in the drawing, on trial for murder caught his attention. The look in the boy’s eyes was one of bewilderment, hatred, and despair. The young pastor began to cry. He said aloud to himself, “What’s the matter with me?”

He looked at the picture more carefully. The boys were all teenagers. They were members of a gang called the Dragons. They had brutally attacked and killed a 15-year-old polio victim named Michael Farmer. The seven boys had stabbed Michael in the back seven times with their knives, and then beat him over the head with garrison belts. They went away wiping blood through their hair, saying, “We messed him good.”

The story revolted the young pastor. It turned his stomach. And, then a thought came — Go to New York City and help those boys. On Friday morning the young pastor was in the courtroom — and the rest of the story is history. Had David Wilkerson not given himself to prayer, Teen Challenge would never have happened.

Since that time the ministry of Teen Challenge has transformed hundreds of thousands of lives. Around the world today and every day, 24,000 men and women are currently in a center being sent free by the power of Christ.

There’s a needlepoint in David Wilkerson’s office from his daughter, Bonnie: “My dad is famous not for who he is, but because he dared to listen when God wanted to hold conversation.”

May we also listen when God wants to hold conversation. The Early Church father, John Chrysostom, expressed it eloquently and succinctly: “God can refuse nothing to a praying church.”

Back to the Scripture:

Luke 18:1-8 - One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up. 2 "There was a judge in a certain city," he said, "who neither feared God nor cared about people. 3 A widow of that city came to him repeatedly, saying, 'Give me justice in this dispute with my enemy.' 4 The judge ignored her for a while, but finally he said to himself, 'I don't fear God or care about people, 5 but this woman is driving me crazy. I'm going to see that she gets justice, because she is wearing me out with her constant requests!'"
6 Then the Lord said, "Learn a lesson from this unjust judge. 7 Even he rendered a just decision in the end. So don't you think God will surely give justice to his chosen people who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? 8 I tell you, he will grant justice to them quickly! But when the Son of Man* returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?" NLT

Look at whom we’re dealing with here – the Creator of the universe! Am I telling you to sell your television? No. Actually, not at all. But I am asking you not to waste your life. There is so much for you and I to do as we aim towards eternity. Live, have fun, laugh lots, and be a servant of the King. Come to think of it, life is about being a servant of the King. Have the time of your life doing it!

Make a list of things to pray about. It won’t be hard. Pray for your family and kids. Pray for faith, and pray for Faith Christian Center. Pray for more and better jobs. Pray for God's power to be released in our city for revival.

Ben encouraged! The best is yet to come!

Getting Ready for a Fast at Faith

2011-03-28T19:50:00.000-07:00

We're preparing for a special "Miracles & Breakthroughs" Sunday at Faith on May 1st. To get ready, starting Friday, April 1st, we're challenging everyone who attends Faith to participate in a month of fasting and prayer. The following is a guideline for fasting that we've used extensivley in the past. Please choose a form of fasting that is appropriate for you, and a schedule that works for you. For those with health issues or advanced age, plese contact your doctor for guidance. If you are not part of Faith Christian Center, we encourage you to make fasting a prayer a part of your spiritual walk. If you would like, we would love for you to join us in believing Jesus for so much more than the wonderful things He is already doing in our midst!

Forms of Fasting

The following is a list of five kinds of fasts; the first three are actual forms of personal fasts, with the last two speaking of corporate calls. Again, this list is not meant to be exhaustive, but are provided for your understanding.

1. The Normal Fast.

A normal fast means abstaining from all food, solid or liquid, but not from water. This is possibly the type of fast that Jesus went on for those 40 days and nights in Matthew 4. Since the body can normally function no longer than three days without water, we assume that He drank water during this time. If you have never fasted before, you might try a juice fast, using "soft" juices like unsweetened apple or grape juice. Avoid juices with citric acid.

Bill Bright, founder of Campus Crusade for Christ went on his first 40-day fast in 1994. During that time he drank the fluid from boiled vegetables, receiving their natural vitamins in the process. Should you decide on an extended fast (seven days or longer), you may wish to use this method.

2. The Absolute Fast (Acts 9:9) "For three days he ... neither ate nor drank."

An absolute fast is abstaining from food and drink. Normally, this type of fast went on for no more than three days; any longer period may prove injurious to your health. (Ezra 10:6; Esther 4:16; Acts 9:9). In these instances the fast of food and drink occurred in the midst of great crises or change.

3. The Partial Fast (Daniel 10:3) "I ate no delicacies, no meat or wine entered my mouth."

The emphasis here is on restriction of diet rather than complete abstinence. Daniel 10:2-3 tells of a special season of seeking God with a restricted diet. This is an excellent way to begin if you have never fasted before, or have health issues. A partial fast could also include cutting out one or two meals during the day, or the elimination of foods that you enjoy eating on a regular basis. If you choose to allow your children to participate in this fast, you might remove candy or ice cream from their diet.

4. Congregational Fast (Joel 2:15-16)

This is the kind of fast that our church will be participating in. Joel 2 says, "Blow a trumpet in Zion, declare a holy fast, call a sacred assembly. Gather the people, consecrate the assembly." NIV

At least a part of the congregation of the church at Antioch were fasting together in Acts 13:2, as evidenced by Luke's words, "While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting."

During our fast, there will be normal fasts, absolute fasts, and partial fasts taking place throughout the congregation. The prayer focus is based on a sense of the leading of the Spirit over the previous several months by the pastor and other church leaders.

5. National Fasts (2 Chronicles 20:3).

Here is the response of King Jehoshaphat to an invasion in 2 Chronicles 20:3: "Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah."

The Jews were called to a national fast in Nehemiah 9:1 and Esther 4:16, and the king of Nineveh proclaimed a fast in response to the message of Jonah.

Over the course of our fast, please check back with this blog for tips and devotions to encourage/enhance your experience.

Update on Flood Damage at Faith

2011-01-27T10:47:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

On Thursday of last week we discovered that the fire suppressant line under the East parking lot was leaking, creating a sink hole and depositing mud and three inches of water in our basement that houses Faithtown, our childrens ministry. There was extensive damage to the 10,000 square foot facility. Here is an update on what's up.

The carpet is nearly all ripped out. Every sheetrocked wall is losing the bottom two feet. The check valve on our sprinkler system is being changed out. The leaks and sink holes in the parking lot should be completely repaired and covered by the end of today.

We've just found out that the new restrooms downstairs may both be demolished as there is significant water damage.

The contents that we're keeping have been removed to a drying facility. All contaminated items have are being photographed and then removed from the Church to be destroyed. All electronics will be re-checked for functionality before coming back into the Church.

Re-carpeting and painting will commence at the end of a couple of weeks, waiting for the sheetrock job and priming to conclude.

And now the GREAT NEWS:

Pastor Steve and our "creatives" at Faith are working on a plan for the new-look children's center. It's going to be great - a fresh canvas to work from! We need to be getting excited about this - a new season for our children and those who will be coming to Faith in the weeks, months and years ahead! It is amazing to have a new children's pastor with a fresh, new vision and the opportunity this temporary difficulty affords us!

While we don't know the bottom line outcomes, we do have good insurance. We are aware that the parking lot may not be covered. But we know that God is good.

Yes, I'm really excited and you should be too!

Blessings,

PM

Ten Steps to a Great New Year

2011-01-03T08:59:00.000-08:00

By popular demand, here are some notes from yesterday's message at Faith. The author wrote this in 2007. Enjoy!

Ten Steps to a Great New Year

Timothy Satryan of Wilmington First Assembly of God offers ten rules to make 2011 truly a happy new year!

1. Today I will not strike back.

If someone is rude; if someone is impatient; if someone is unkind...I will not respond in like manner.

2. Today I will ask God to bless my "enemy."

If I come across someone who treats me harshly or unfairly, I will quietly ask God to bless that individual. I understand the "enemy" could be a family member, neighbor, co-worker or stranger.

3. Today I will be careful about what I say.

I will carefully choose and guard my words, being certain that I do not spread gossip, slander or malign anyone in any way.

4. Today I will go the extra mile.

I will find ways to help share the burden of another person. I will find ways to make life more pleasant.

5. Today I will forgive.

I will forgive any hurts or injuries that come my way. (I will also work to forgive injuries that have been inflicted upon me in the past)

6. Today I will do something nice for someone, but I will do it secretly.

I will reach out anonymously and bless the life of another person.

7. Today I will treat others as I wish to be treated.

I will practice the golden rule -- do unto others as you would have them do unto you -- with everyone I encounter.

8. Today I will raise the spirits of someone who is discouraged.

My smile, my words, my expression of support, can make the difference to someone who is wrestling with life.

9. Today I will nurture my body.

I will eat less; I will eat only healthy foods; I will thank God for my body.

10. Today I will grow spiritually.

I will spend a little more time in prayer today; I will begin reading something spiritual or inspirational today; I will find a quiet place (at some point during this day) and listen to God's voice!

The Azusa Street Revival (1906-1909)

2010-12-07T11:00:00.000-08:00

The following is an excerpt from my dissertation project on the subject of revival. I wrote the book over a two year period, finishing in 1998. Given the current state of the American Church as a whole and what we've sensed God doing at the church I serve in Bend, Oregon, it's appropriate to include this material here for this season. Hope you find it interesting. This snapshot is of The Azusa Street Revival.

The Azusa Street Revival (1906 - 1909)

As the work in Wales had moved across the ocean, things were just beginning to heat up in Los Angeles, where the Azusa Street Revival was in its infancy. Several leaders in California had been in contact with Evan Roberts by mail, with both sides encouraging one another to continue pressing in with God.

Azusa Street was preceded however, by evangelist Charles G. Parham who was leading a Bethel Bible College class in Topeka, Kansas. Just prior to Christmas 1900, he gave an assignment to his students to study the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Three days later, the students assembled with Parham and corporately reached the conclusion that tongues were the normal result of this subsequent filling after salvation. The students and teachers then embarked on following the Biblical pattern of praying and waiting for this Spirit baptism. On New Year’s Day, 1901, forty students and 70 visitors were gathered in the chapel when the first students began speaking in tongues. Within three days, nearly all of the students spoke in other tongues, along with a group of 12 ministers from a variety of denominations.

As notoriety of this outpouring spread, an influx of people came to hear and see for themselves what was going on. Reporters, linguists, the curious and God seekers all came.

Soon, Parham fell into a period a difficult times and re-grouped in Houston, Texas, where he began teaching Bible school classes once again. Among his students was William Seymour, a black Nazarene Holiness preacher. Being black (and blind in one eye), and living in a time of extreme prejudice, he had to sit in the doorway of the building to hear Parham lecture.

In 1906, Seymour moved to Los Angeles to accept an associate position in a local church. While he had not yet spoken in tongues, in his first meeting in the church he told of what he had heard and seen in Houston. He stated in his sermon that when you are baptized in the Holy Spirit, you spoke in tongues. The church’s senior pastor Julia Hutchins thought otherwise. That afternoon he returned to church for service and found himself locked out of the building. The trouble was the issue of “initial evidence.” Pentecostals teach that the initial evidence of the baptism in the Holy Spirit is speaking in tongues. At this juncture of history, all but a small handful of Christians believed otherwise; that one did not have to speak in tongues to have the baptism. This led to Hutchins locking the church door.

Seymour simply went down the street and held services. On April 9th, Edward Lee received this baptism. Soon, crowds were so large that the floor caved in during one meeting because of all the people. Seymour began preaching from a store-front porch to hundreds on a lawn, and finally moved to a large room at 321 Azusa Street.

Services ran almost continuously. Seymour would sit behind his makeshift pulpit of two wooden boxes, often with his head in the top one while he was praying. Frank Bartleman, an eyewitness of the revival wrote,

Seeking souls could be found under the power almost any hour of the day or night. The place was never closed nor empty. The people came to meet God. He was always there. Hence a continuous meeting. The meeting did not depend on the human leader. God’s presence became more and more wonderful. In that old building, with its low rafters and bare floors, God broke strong men and women to pieces, and put them together again for His glory. It was a tremendous overhauling process. Pride and self-assertion, self-importance, and self-esteem could not survive there. The religious ego preached its own funeral sermon quickly. [Frank Bartleman, Azusa Street, 58.]

Seymour began producing a newspaper publication titled, The Apostolic Faith, which chronicled the events in Los Angeles. Stories of people being baptized in the Spirit and miraculous conversions seasoned its content. The mailing list eventually reached as high as 25,000. As a result, people began flocking to Azusa Street from across the United States, Canada and Europe. Bartleman relates the following,

It seemed that everyone had to go to Azusa. Missionaries were gathered there from Africa, India, and the islands of the sea. Preachers and workers had crossed the continent and come from distant lands with an irresistible drawing to Los Angeles. They had come up for “Pentecost,” though they little realized it. It was God’s call. Holiness meetings, tents, and missions began to close up for lack of attendance. Their people were at Azusa. Brother and Sister Garr closed the Burning Bush Hall, came to Azusa, received the baptism in the Spirit, and were soon on their way to India to spread the fire. Even Brother Smale had to come to Azusa to look up his members. He invited them back home promised them liberty in the Spirit, and for a time God wrought mightily at the New Testament Church, also. [Frank Bartleman, Azusa Street, 53-54.]

Most came seeking the baptism in the Holy Spirit with evidence of tongues. Others came to mock, ridicule, and shut the meetings down. Seymour braved the criticism, riding it out on his character. Importantly, after someone began speaking in tongues, he instructed them not to go out into the streets speaking in an unknown language, but instead to speak about Jesus.

As a ten-year-old, A.C. Valdez was an eyewitness of the Azusa Street revival. Evidence of the fruit of this move of God came from his own household. He shares his first-hand exposure to the baptism in the Holy Spirit:

Late one night when I was fast asleep, my mother came into my dark bedroom after a service at the Azusa Street Mission. She bent over and touched my shoulder. As I brushed the sand out of my eyes to wake up, she began talking fast in some language I had never heard before.

I was frightened. Why wasn’t she talking English? What had come over her? Then, suddenly, she began crying, but I knew right away she was crying from joy, not sadness. I kept wondering if she would ever use English again. Then the other language stopped, and she said: “Son, I have had a most glorious experience! I have just been baptized in the Holy Ghost and have been given the gift of tongues!” [Valdez, and Scheer, Fire On Azusa Street, 3-4.]

While many were saved in this move of God, the main focus was the re-discovered gift of the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Other manifestations were present as well, such as interpretation of tongues, singing in the Spirit, [simply, to sing in “glossalalia,” or one’s “prayer language] prophecy, quaking, running, [sometimes as God touched an individual, they would arise from their seat and run all over the building, hugging as many people as possible because of the joy that they were experiencing] healing and falling under the power of the Spirit. “Men would fall all over the house, like the slain in battle, or rush for the altar en masse to seek God. The scene often resemble a forest of fallen trees.” [Valdez and Scheer, Fire On Azusa Street, 60.]

It is interesting that Seymour himself did not speak in tongues until some time after the mission on Azusa Street had opened. Bartleman adds that everyone who was baptized in the Spirit spoke in tongues.

The revival commenced from 1906 to 1909. Seymour continued on as pastor of the church until his death in 1929. The modern Pentecostal movement was jump started around the world from Azusa Street, as key individuals came, experienced, and carried the baptism in the Holy Spirit back with them to their country. While the emphasis was on tongues, one must remember the New Testament purpose of the baptism in the Holy Spirit; it was power in witnessing. After the resurrection and prior to His ascension, Jesus in Acts 1:8 said,

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

The fruition of this prophecy came a chapter later in Acts 2:1-4. It reads,

1 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

The very nature of emphasis within this revival necessitates witnessing. As this emphasis spread around the world, many were won as a result of a Christian receiving this gift. The Pentecostal movement itself has experienced rapid growth because of the baptism in the Holy Spirit.

Sun

2010-12-02T20:11:00.000-08:00

We love to talk up the region that we live in! Central Oregon is a tremendous place to live. From any city, town or wide space in the road we can be camping in 15 minutes. Mt. Bachelor, part time home of the U.S. Ski Team and various other international Olympians, is within close driving distance. For example, I can be there within 25 minutes of leaving my front door.

One of our boasts is that the sun comes out 360 days a year. Do the math; that leaves only five days when the orange ball in the sky hides.

'Been having a few of those days lately...

It's amazing how often it snows here, even when it's not freezing. I've seen flurries fly on the Fourth of July, where 70 degree weather marked the earlier part of the day and mid-forties proved to be sufficient to get a white surprise. Today we were in the high 30's. The rains fell until the temps hit about 35, and then every place where there wasn't pavement the white stuff stuck.

No sun today.

We've just hired a great associate pastor who moved his family from Bakersfield, California. Not only a culture shock, but the week they moved it was the first time his kids had ever seen it snow! I want them to love the people here, but a little warmth sure wouldn't hurt their transition. But then again, sometimes you've just got to go with the flow of the season. The snows today will give way to green lawns and forests to enjoy in just a few months. They're going to love it!

As I worked on this Sunday's message and watched the snow fall as I peered through the window of my study, I was thinking about the people who call Faith their home and what their lives are like right now. What a tremendous people whom I am privileged to serve! And yet like for so many in our city, times haven't always been easy the last couple of years for some of our folks. Sometimes it seems like the sun just won't come out. It's in those times that we strive to remember that in a little while, seasons change to one that we like a lot more than what we're in right now.

On the other hand, our region's skiers are loving this weather, a reminder that even when the sun doesn't come out, something good is likely happening whether we know it or not!

And that's when we realize that the Son never went away...

The Welsh Revival (1904-1906)

2010-11-30T11:00:00.000-08:00

The Welsh Revival (1904 - 1906)

Another great move of God based on prayer was the Welsh Revival in Wales, Great Britain. For thirteen months, Evan Roberts, a man in his mid-twenties prayed for revival. Preparing for ministry within the Calvinistic Methodist movement, Roberts did not possess either great preaching skills, or a widely-read education. All he knew was the Bible. It proved to be more than enough.

Revival sprang forth one evening when Roberts asked his pastor for an opportunity to address the young people in attendance at the church’s mid-week meeting. It was in essence, a youth service. Roberts stood before them as a man who had been broken by God. After sharing from his heart for a few minutes, he began to weep, and all those in attendance began to weep as well. From this well-spring rose a prayer and praise revival, which was marked by deep repentance. J. Oswald Smith describes this happening as follows:

Suddenly, like an unexpected tornado, the Spirit of God swept over the land. The churches were crowded so that multitudes were unable to get in. Meetings lasted from ten in the morning until twelve at night. Three definite services were held each day. Evan Roberts was the human instrument, but there was very little preaching. Singing, testimony, and prayer were the chief features. There were no hymn books; they had learnt the hymns in childhood. No choir, for everybody sang. No collection; and no advertising.

Nothing had ever come over Wales with such far-reaching results. Infidels were converted, drunkards, thieves, and gamblers saved; and thousands reclaimed to respectability. Confessions of awful sins were heard on every side. Old debts were paid. The theatre had to leave for want of patronage. Mules in the coal mines refused to work, being unused to kindness. In five weeks 20,000 joined the churches.

Generally, this revival was held in churches across Wales, marked by overflow crowds. One eyewitness remarked that the meeting place was stifling as 1500 fitted themselves into a church meant for 700. But the power of God was there and in the midst of prayer and praise, His Spirit began to move.

As the modern Pentecostal movement was about to break forth, within this revival there were Charismatic gifts in operation, with the exception of tongues, which would be fanned to flame shortly in Los Angeles. Such activity as accurate discernment, visions, trances and “words from the Lord” were prevalent. The meetings were highly emotional, and the revival took it on the chin in some quarters for it’s lack of preaching and teaching. Estimates of those who were saved vary. Conservatively, the figure is over 34,000.

The Welsh revival did travel across the Atlantic to America with incredible results. Pratney shares the following impact:

When news of the coming revival reached America, huge conferences of ministers met in New York, Chicago, and other cities to discuss what to do when it began in the U.S. And, they met just in time. The Methodists in Philadelphia soon had over 6,000 new converts in trial memberships; the ministers in Atlantic City claimed there were only 50 adults left unconverted in a population of 60,000! Churches in New York City took in hundreds on a single Sunday: one recording 286 new converts, of which 217 were adults, 134 men and 60 were heads of families. [Winkie Pratney, Revival (Springdale, Pennsylvania: Whitaker Books, 1983), 168-169.]

Sadly, as the revival began to wane, it’s leader mysteriously dropped out. Many speculate that he simply burned out from overwork. Maurice Smith writes,

Roberts continued working throughout 1905 and into 1906. But in April of 1906, suffering form “nervous prostration,” he retired to private life “by the brook Cherith” in the home of the Penn-Lewis family of Leicester. Roberts never again entered into public Christian ministry, devoting himself instead to prayer and intercession for his beloved Wales. [R. Maurice Smith, When The Fire Fell (Reno, Nevada: Preparedness Publications, 1996), 99-100.]

Regardless of the disposition of Roberts, the effects of the Welsh Revival spread and influenced many regions around the world with the flames of revival. What began with one solitary man crying out to God resulted in hundreds of thousands of lives being touched.

Diet

2010-11-29T19:11:00.000-08:00

Thoroughly enjoyed being at Faith yesterday. One of the highlights for me was standing there in awe of what Jesus was doing through our worship band as they led us into His presence. I know most of their back stories, where they've been and what has brought them to where they are right now. It was one of those amazing God-moments where I sensed Him saying, "I did this." It is humbling to be reminded that the greatest change that takes place in a life originates completely and totally in heaven. And that's more than enough.

Like a multitude of Americans, I gained some weight over this past week. I trust everyone ready this blog had a tremendous Thanksgiving! This special day is the quintessential American pig out. Many of our homes will still have leftovers all the way through to the next week. And many of us began our new diets this morning, being Monday.

A diet is most effective if it isn't deterred from. You know what I'm getting at, NO CHEATING! And yes, it's extremely difficult to do this over the holidays.

Many would tell you that it's just plain foolish to diet over the holidays. Watching Jesus change lives at Faith over the last several years reminds me of what is truly foolish; to actually conduct oneself to be on a diet from the Lord for any length of time.

Why do we find ourselves doing this so often?

I preached on having a hunger for God yesterday at Faith. We're reminded that every day is an opportunity to press in, realizing that the world does not revolve around me and my little feelings, but that God by His grace has extended to us the opportunity of a lifetime – to be forgiven and to walk in His presence through an ongoing relationship with Jesus Christ. It’s not about a ticket that I have punched in my pocket that gets me somewhere some day; it’s all about our whole selves being that ticket and heading toward that destination every day…that’s having a passion and hunger for more of God.

Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation

2010-11-24T14:28:00.000-08:00

On the eve of the very American Thanksgiving holiday, it is appropriate to look back on the proclamation that made it so. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued a presidential proclamation calling for a national day of thanksgiving. Here is the text of that proclamation:

“The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful years and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the Source from which they come, others have been added which are of so extraordinary a nature that they can not fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever-watchful providence of Almighty God.

“In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign states to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere, except in the theater of military conflict, while that theater has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.

“Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the field of peaceful industry to the national defense have not arrested the plow, the shuttle, or the ship; the ax has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than theretofore.

“Population has steadily increased notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege, and the battlefield, and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.

“No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.

“It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow-citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.

“And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners, or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it, as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes, to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility, and union.”

It is interesting that though a national holiday was proclaimed, it is a very God-centered event, enacted by a government. If such a proclamation was made today, what would the response be?

The Prayer Meeting Revival (1857 - 1860)

2010-11-23T11:00:00.000-08:00

The Prayer Meeting Revival (1857 - 1860)

By 1855, America had degenerated to the point of despair, and was on the verge of financial and spiritual collapse. Banks were failing, businesses slid into insolvency, and unemployment figures reached multiplied thousands. The people of the United States began to turn their hearts heavenward for relief from their plight.

What followed was actually triggered by a lay missionary by the name of Jeremiah C. Lanphier. He was hired by the Old Dutch North Church in the heart of lower New York to save the church from extinction. The eighty-eight-year-old concern, about a mile from Wall Street, was near death. The few remaining trustees decided to give it one last effort to see if they could survive in a neighborhood where other churches had already given up and moved out. For three months, Lanphier visited boarding houses, stores and any other place where there were people, to invite them to church.

On September 23, 1957, Lanphier placed a sign on the outside of the church that read, “Prayer Meeting from 12 to 1 o’clock -- stop 5, 10, or 20 minutes.” At noon he entered the empty room, wondering if he would be the only one. No one came until 12:30 PM. Soon however, there were six that came that day. It was agreed upon by those in attendance that another prayer meeting would take place the following Wednesday. The next week there were 20. Then there were forty, and soon they were holding daily meetings. In this revival, there was very little preaching if any at all. Soon there were 3,000, taking up the entire building. What had started out as a prayer meeting with one solitary man, burgeoned into a national revival that saw over one million come to Christ.

In six months time, over 10,000 men from across economic lines were in prayer meetings on a daily basis in New York City. At the time the population of the entire city was 800,000. Eventually these prayer meeting touched every major city in the country, spreading out West, and then overseas. The revival continued unabated until the start of the American civil war in 1860.

The obvious focus of this revival was prayer. It was a period in history when it wasn’t time to hear preaching, but just to repent and pray. Perhaps the lack of preaching contributed to the unity in the praying. Doctrinal issues were set aside for this season, lessening disagreement as to how the prayer meetings should be conducted.

This revival continued to touch Great Britain and the surrounding area during the war. Over 1,000,000 converts were added to the kingdom in this region. Notables who came out of this revival, and whose lives have left a lasting impact on American Christianity were D.L. Moody, Ira Sankey and William and Catherine Booth (Salvation Army). Whereas the Second Great Awakening focused on the frontier, this revival’s epicenters were the cities. Mass repentance, and a new-found extended hand to those who were down and out were characteristics of this move of God.

Said It All

2010-11-22T19:42:00.000-08:00

Still in the after-glow of Sunday at Faith...

We did a "tag-team" message that featured the involvement of 14 people. I began, missionary Rick Ellis did 10 minutes, after which we received the morning's tithes and offerings in support of his post in Concepcion, Chile. After that I spoke again, setting up Doug Valitchka who leads our Celebrate Recovery ministry at Faith. Doug introduced 11 CR attenders, each of whom did a "cardboard testimony." Cardboard testimonies is where a person holds a card that says something about their past. They show the congregation and then turn the card over where it describes their life after Christ.

There wasn't a dry eye in the place.

It's hard to follow such an emotional moment, where brave and transparent people share some intimate details about their lives. But these testimonies are an ever present reminder that EVERY Christian has a card or two of their own...

I concluded by sharing a recent blog entry by one of our men at Faith. It was incredible content of the power of Jesus Christ to change a life (click here to read it). I guess that makes 15 people involved in the message.

It's interesting that of the 15 who shared on Sunday, 12 never said a word. They didn't have to. Their changed lives said it all...

Access

2010-11-18T15:26:00.000-08:00

I had a meeting today with a group of guys that get together once a quarter. There is no agenda except being together. I have found these times to be incredibly invigorating and life-giving. And no, I don't miss unless I'm outta town...WAY outta town. It's just that important to me.

I recall what the Bible says about Jesus drawing away from the crowds to quiet places to get recharged. I think that I'm busy from time to time, but here was a guy who went around performing miracles. Think "rock star" status for 2,000 years ago. Everyone would want to have a piece of Him, even the twelve disciples who were closest. Hands reaching out from every direction, wanting to touch Him, to be near Him.

Last year while in Burundi (Central Africa), Dr. John Vawter and I were traveling on a high mountain road to get to a speaking engagement. We pulled over to assist someone that our driver knew. The narrow two-lane mountain road was filled with people moving back and forth on foot and bicycles over the pass. Suddenly some children walking along side the road were shocked and pointing at John and I in the back of the car.

We were the first white people they had ever seen. We carefully opened the door and John extended his arm. They didn't know what to make of it at first. Not only was his skin white, but the arm had hair on it. After some hesitancy at first, they began to come and feel his arm. Pretty soon there was a crowd of children trying to figure out what was different...

Back to Jesus. He is different. He did ALL the cool stuff; lame walk and blind see stuff. He is the Son of God. The people knew what He could do. One woman with feminine issues even reached out to touch the bottom rim of his tunic and was healed on the spot. I can't imagine the crush of people...

And yet I'm reminded that if I were the only one, Christ would have died for me so that I could have access to the Father...and to heaven.

Better Man

2010-11-17T16:28:00.000-08:00

Working on this Sunday's message the sporting news of the day came to mind. it concerns that University of Auburn quarterback, Cam Newton, and the allegations that his father had attempted to arrange an illegal play-for-pay-plus scholarship arrangement with Mississippi State University, prior to signing a scholarship offer at his current school.

Cam Newton is also the front runner for the Heisman trophy award as college football's best player.

The NCAA has strict rules governing college athletes and the kinds of compensation that they can receive to attend school and participate in their sport. What has been alleged is well outside of the boundaries, so much so that the FBI has been brought in to investigate.

Wow.

Add to this scenario that the Dad in question is a Pentecostal pastor and you come up with a double wow.

We don't know if the allegations are true, AND PRAY THAT NOT ONE ACCUSATION IS VALID. The problem? There are enough people involved to indicate that something inappropriate has occurred.

The lesson? It doesn't matter who we are, our sins will be found out...whether here in this life or the next (Numbers 32:23). Knowing this truth may create a tension that draws us closer to Jesus and makes us better spouses, parents and friends.

Know what? For my own personal sake I like that scenario a lot. I don't follow Jesus out of fear of "getting smooshed at the judgment," or just so I can get my proverbial "ticket to heaven" punched. I am a Christ follower because of what He's done for me and His subsequent presence in my life due to a commitment I made long ago. But this truth of our sins being found out? It's just another marker on life's path that reminds me of the importance of becoming a better man.

The Second Great Awakening (Early 1800’s)

2010-11-16T11:00:00.000-08:00

The Second Great Awakening (Early 1800’s)

The flames of the First Great Awakening never really died out in the South. During this time, the Baptist movement proliferated, especially among those with low incomes and little education. While paling in comparison to the previously mentioned events of the 1730’s and 40’s, there were still significant numbers of people converting to Christ. Then in the early months of the 1800’s, the happenings of the earlier awakening began to spring forth anew, under the leadership of several different evangelists.

In August of 1801, the famed Cane Ridge Revival was a key event in what was to follow around the country. In May of that year, Evangelist Barton Stone was invited by the renowned frontiersman, Daniel Boone, to hold meetings in the hills of Kentucky’s Bourbon County. The event was so well regarded that it was decided that a second meeting would be held at the end of the summer. To the amazement of everyone, over 20,000 people attended the six-day open-air event in August. Thousands came to Christ as Savior. Among those was James B. Finley, who later became a Methodist circuit rider. Of Cane Ridge he wrote,

The noise was like the roar of Niagara. The vast sea of human beings seemed to be agitated as if by a storm. I counted seven ministers, all preaching at one time, some on stumps, others in wagons and one standing on a tree which had, in falling, lodged against another . . . Some of the people were singing, others praying, some crying for mercy in the most piteous accents, while others were shouting most vociferously. While witnessing these scenes, a peculiarly-strange sensation such as I had never felt before came over me. My heart beat tumultuously, my knees trembled, my lips quivered and I felt as though I must fall to the ground. A strange supernatural power seemed to pervade the entire mass of mined there collected . . . I stepped up on a log where I could have a better view of the surging sea of humanity. The scene that then presented itself to my mind was indescribable. At one time I saw at least five hundred swept down in a moment as if a battery of a thousand guns had been opened upon them and then immediately followed shrieks and shouts that rent the very heavens. [Mendell Taylor, Exploring Evangelism (Kansas City, Missouri: Beacon Hill, 1964), 142.]

Presbyterians, Methodists, Baptists and new movements such as the Disciples of Christ were all were fanned into flame. Those who rose up in prominence during this revival were the likes of Charles Finney and Peter Cartwright. It is important to point out that in regard to both men, physical manifestations did occur in their meetings, but after while, less so in those of Cartwright who was not keen on such happenings.

In regard to the revival ministry of Finney during this time, J. Oswald Smith in The Passion for Souls, p. 13 writes,

Sometimes the conviction of sin was so great and caused such fearful wails of anguish that he had to stop preaching until it subsided. Ministers and church members were converted. Sinners were reclaimed by thousands. And for years the mighty work of grace went on. Men had never witnessed the like in their lives before.

Thousands were converted, not only through the ministry of Finney, but countless others. Distinctives of this revival was that it proliferated, not in the young nation’s largest cities, but on the new American frontier. The large open-air gatherings where one preacher would preach to thousands was replaced by camp meetings. Thousands could be in attendance, but several evangelists would preach simultaneously as in the Cane Ridge happening.

Fire

2010-11-15T17:10:00.003-08:00

We finished up our series, "Unshakable" yesterday at Faith. I really enjoyed sharing it over seven weeks. I easily had four to eight more messages I could have preached, but decided against it, due to the holidays being upon us.

As we concluded, I reminded the congregation of the incredible story this past week of the Carnival Splendor, the cruise ship that caught fire in it's engine room, completely disabling the vessel. It reminds me that there are lots of engine rooms all around us in the Christian life. Anywhere where the presence of God dwells is a type of engine room. That can be our hearts, our prayer meetings on Tuesdays and Sundays, even the sanctuary when we gather for worship.

As a general rule, fires and cruise ships don't mix. But the symbolism of fire and the Christian life go hand-in-hand.

Our theme Scripture for our series was Hebrews 12:12-29 which says,

Hebrews 12:27-29 - This phrase, "Yet once more," indicates the removal of things that are shaken—that is, things that have been made—in order that the things that cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire. ESV

His fire in our lives? Oh yes.

Remembering Grandpa Johnson

2010-11-12T10:12:00.000-08:00

My paternal Grandfather, Keith M. Johnson passed from this life to the next a couple weeks ago. It was my privilege to assist in officiating in the services that took place last week. My uncle, Leon Johnson is an excellent videographer and compiled the following clip that was shown at the memorial service. For the Johnson clan, this will bring back lots of memories...

A Celebration of Life and Love from Leon Johnson on Vimeo.

Yes and YIKES!

2010-11-10T15:18:00.000-08:00

Have a look at this YouTube clip of Gladys Ingles of a barnstorming group called the 13 Black Cats in the 1920's. This clip is unnerving to say the least!

What's scary about this clip is that it was completely intentional that this gal would go up in the air without safety lines and do this repair job. Did you notice that there were cameras on both airplanes? It was a staged stunt.

Wow.

I realize that the top speed to these biplanes was likely around 75 mph. It's just not my personal ambition to do anything outside of a vehicle at that rate of speed...

When we think about our lives for a moment in light of eternity, how many things are we doing in the spiritual realm without a safety line or a net?

We've been having some remarkable times at Faith lately, living up to our motto of "Experience Authentic Faith." We recognize that authentic faith isn't always something tangible; we in fact experience authentic faith when we don't feel God's presence.

But it sure is amazing when we do...

This clip reminds me that we don't always see the net of the Spirit of God that is ready to catch us. Sometimes serving Jesus means stepping out of our comfort zones so that our Christ conformity and obedience is matured and deepened. The question is, am I willing to step out in those unknown areas - I see that net but it's still scary. All I can say at times is, "Yes and YIKES!"

Lord, give us the courage to say yes and grow up...

The First Great Awakening (1730’s - 1740’s)

2010-11-09T14:38:00.001-08:00

The First Great Awakening (1730’s - 1740’s)

The first great move of God in revival power on the North American continent took place in the early to mid-1700’s, beginning under the leadership of Jonathan Edwards. Known today as a great theologian, Edwards gave much of his ministry to the pursuit and administration of revival.

Educated in Biblical subjects and studies from an early age, Edwards was not converted until his teen years while in college at Yale. His conversion experience was a profound one, and his thirst for more of Christ had a tremendous influence on the revival that began in his church at Northampton, Massachusetts in 1734. In the midst of a strong but difficult church, Edwards was used by God to see over 300 people come to Christ in a community that had only 1400 in population. He became known as the man who preached the powerful sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.”

History records that he was not the most innovative communicator, holding his manuscript inches from his face and reading in a somewhat monotone fashion. And yet as he preached, many clung to the supports of the building, for fear that they would slip into hell at any moment.

The revival at Northampton continued for several years, and spread to the surrounding area. Eventually, under the evangelistic ministries of George Whitefield, Presbyterian minister Gilbert Tennent and John Wesley, the father of Methodism, the revival spread throughout the American colonies.

Whitefield and the others preached up and down the Atlantic seaboard to large crowds numbering as many as 30,000. Incredibly, their good fortune of preaching in open-air meetings was necessitated by the fact that these revivalist were no longer allowed in the local churches; they had been kicked out by a class of unconverted clergy who had difficulty understanding new birth in Christ. The thought of preaching in the open air was not well received by the evangelists themselves. Biographer John Pollock notes,

John Wesley was shocked. “It is a mad notion.” Indecent, indecorous, almost certainly illegal because of the Conventicle Act except at a public hanging, where admittedly the Wesleys had addressed the crowds last November at Tyburn. Wesley did not add his private conviction: “I should have thought the saving of souls almost a sin if it had not been done in a church.” Whitefield dropped the subject from his conversation but not from his mind. [John Pollock, George Whitefield and the Great Awakening (Belleville, Michigan: Lion Publishing, 1972), 76-77]

Large churches could seat hundreds, but it was the thousands that they preached to in the open air. In these meetings, wondrous things occurred. When farmers would hear that one of the evangelists would be in their region, they would drop their implements, mount their steeds and ride with all of their might to the location of the meeting. Thousands at a time were converted. There were physical responses by people to the powerful presence of God. Pollock writes,

Cries and groans and quaking had sometimes accompanied the preaching. (Charles Wesley had noted at Blackheath in England that “the cries of the wounded were heard on every side,” and when Wesley wrote his famous hymn, “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling,” he meant literally the line “Enter every trembling heart.”) Normally George Whitefield was heard in profound silence, one reason which Benjamin Franklin gives for the vast numbers who could hear every word. Yet when Whitefield preached on May 14 to twelve thousand people who had gathered in a clearing near Nottingham, Delaware, “thousands cried out, so that they almost drowned my voice.” George did not doubt this time that the Spirit of God was present in fire and love and force. Men and women dropped as dead, then revived, then fainted again, as George preached on, swept up into contemplation of Christ’s “all constraining, free and everlasting love” until, as he reached a last appeal to come to the Cross and receive the grace of God, George himself fell in a swoon. For a few moments the Tennent brothers believed he was dead. He revived, mounted his horse with their help, and together the three men traveled no less than twenty miles home through the woods by moonlight, singing as they rode. [John Pollock, George Whitefield and the Great Awakening (Belleville, Michigan: Lion Publishing, 1972), 148-149]

Accompanying conversions were manifestations such as weeping, groaning, quaking and falling down under the power of the Spirit. Such occurrences were clearly not normative as indicated by the reaction of the Tennent brothers who thought Whitefield was dead when he fell down. While it is argued by some that Whitefield fell down in such instances because of poor health and exhaustion, this explanation is not consistent in light of similar manifestations taking place among his hearers.

Estimates vary between the figures of 25,000 and 50,000 who were added to churches during the twenty year span of this revival. In the colonies, the number of churches and ministers doubled. Given the relatively small population of the region, this truly was a Great Awakening.

Moving Out

2010-11-08T16:01:00.000-08:00

I wore a suit jacket that came from my father's closet to preach in yesterday at Faith. Pretty snazzy too, ultra-suede. The tan jacket is quite spiffy (does that adjective date me or what?) and fit decently enough that it could pass for something that I bought myself to wear.

I made a big deal about getting it from my Dad during yesterdays message.

Our focus at Faith was about having God's agenda instead of our own and that we don't dictate the terms of our salvation but the Creator of the universe does. That's where the jacket comes in...

God wants us to fit into His jacket. Only He is the one who determines the measurements that fit. Our discipleship, our Christ-conformity is wholly dependent on the freedom of the Holy Spirit to move within us.

It's also dependent on how much stuff we allow the Holy Spirit to move out of our lives...

Seasoning

2010-11-04T11:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I finished up a conference I attended in Renton, WA called, "Catalyst NW." Great conference with content that surprised me even more than last years inaugural event. Great stuff!

It was my privilege to have a rare experience yesterday. I had lunch at a Tai restaurant. I enjoyed it very much. The people I was with ordered for me, and the three of us shared each others meals so I could have that many more experiences. Loved it! I almost asked for a straw for the red curry dish, making sure that none of the wonderful sauce would be left behind for the garbage bin.

Then again, maybe that's where it ALL ended up anyway...

It was soooo good, all of it. I drove to my parent's home after the conference and went out to dinner with them...at the local Tai place. This time I actually had another dish that I saw another order at our table for lunch. It was soooo good! Again, I shared three dishes with my folks. I've decided I officially love Tai food, prepared with a 'medium heat.' It tastes incredible, and the veggies included seem to all be very fresh.

'You know what I enjoyed the most? The people I ate with. At lunch it was my privilege to be with old friends. They pastor a great church in Pasco, WA. and had brought their excellent staff with them for the conference. We sat, talked and ate. Though I loved the food, I recognize that I love them more. Same with my folks. I'm thinking that the best seasoning of any meal are the people that we are with. Without them, it really doesn't matter what we're eating - we just order something, choke it down and get on our way. Why waste the experience on expensive food when we're all alone. It really is no experience at all.

At the conference I heard a great quote and actually have already stuck it on my Facebook page. It reads,

"When we are in pain, Satan wants to isolate you so he can assassinate you" (John Bishop).

I know about the pain part, but also believe that even when we are not in pain, isolation is a dangerous state of existence. We need each other for encouragement, strength, accountability...I think we can all make a list here.

The next time your with someone over a meal, think about how they "season" your life.

One thing is certain as I conclude, Jesus is the best seasoning that any life will ever know...

Tidings of Great Joy for the Henning's...and Faith!

2010-11-03T06:37:00.000-07:00

Friends,

It is my pleasure to introduce you to Joshua Andrew Henning, born to Pastor Steve and Sharon yesterday at 1:43 AM. Josh weighed in at 8lbs, 11oz and stretches 20.5 inches.

We congratulate our new Generation Pastors on their new arrive and look forward to their impending move to Bend!

We'll keep you up to date about their move and getting all hands on deck to empty their U-Haul!

Blessings,

PM

My Brain is Full

2010-11-03T06:15:00.000-07:00

I love the old Far Side cartoon (Gary Larson) that feature a very large bodied boy with a very small head. The caption read, "My brain is full." That's what I feel like as I'm getting ready to head back to a conference that I'm attending.

This is my second year at this event, "Calibrate NW," talking about keeping our eyes on the purposes of Jesus as we move our churches ahead by His grace. I'm hearing some incredible speakers who are excellent thinkers in their own right, who themselves are examining their own areas of ministry as they help us look at where we serve. I have been rocked by some things they shared, and challenged by others to my core; it's just been that good. Sometimes they have me thinking about a revolution and other times it's all about sitting peacefully at the feet of Jesus.

Sometime in December I'll be able to get my arms around some of these things (by then my brain will be less full!) and find them useful in what we're doing at Faith. We have been going through an extended season of transition, with staff changes and change in our attenders due to the economy. I'm just so excited about what is on the horizon! Can hardly wait to be in the pulpit on Sunday!

Mad Dash

2010-11-01T22:18:00.000-07:00

I drove up yesterday directly from service to Bremerton, Washington, where my oldest son is going to college. I collected him, his two roommates and headed to his church, New Life in Silverdale.

New Life is a great church that does things a bit differently than we do in Bend. It falls in the category of "emerging" or "emergent" church. Basically it is a model of ministry that does its very best to move past traditional church forms to present Christ to "unchurched" or "dechurched" individuals in a way that they can understand. And they do it quite well. The service we attended at 6 pm was a copy of three others that took place earlier that morning. Add in two other locations and you will concede that they are very effective in reaching their target audience.

These services are full. The one we attended that my son normally goes to is full of college students. That's why we picked that church for him to see when we dropped him off for school and college baseball. That's right, we did our homework.

Afterward we went out for a late meal - at "Famous Dave's" no less, a well-known BBQ chain in the region. We were joined by another student, a girl who is the boy's good friend and also attends the church. I'm here for a conference on this subject of "emerging church" so I did an exit interview with these four young people. It was revealing the reason why they enjoyed the church so much. What was remarkable though wasn't the apparatus or "look" of the service itself (which is quite 'industrial'). No, it was mostly about a simple message from a speaker who connected and all the relationships in the room. The bottom line? I can come to church and know people just like me.

Most churches believe that this is true of themselves. Unfortunately, we can forget who we are and allow our code language and traditions to transcend the truth of the gospel. It's at that point that we become only like the other people who are already in the building, and completely separate from anyone else whom we think we are actually relating to. That's why I love conferences like this one. They get me outside of my box and help me think about what really matters - a clear presentation of the gospel by all means necessary.

Am I trying to take Faith Christian Center from "Traditional Church" to "Emerging Church?" Nope. If I did that I would ruin lives and the church. A self-centered, short-cited and unloving leader does that. But the truth is, we haven't been part of the "Traditional" format for some time. Instead we are in between in a model called "Third Way." It's an attempt to take hold of the best of both ends of the spectrum and do the best we can with who we are and trying to be as Biblical as possible. Of humor, I only discovered what we'd been doing at Faith after the fact. I read about what we were doing after we were already doing it.

Hilarious and scary, all at once...

All of this kinda reminds me of arriving in Bremerton shortly before 6 pm, without stopping once for a break on the five and a half hour adventure over hill and dale. We can't get to the place of being as Biblical as possible fast enough, but when we "arrive" we can easily find ourselves exhausted by all of the change. We have ourselves to thank for that, codifying tradition to the point of doing things for the sake of what we've always done. No doubt, we're involved in a mad dash.

We just need to make sure that we don't go mad while dashing...

Uncle Sam and the Nun

2010-10-28T21:47:00.000-07:00

The title of this entry sounds like a terrible joke. And it is. On my way out of the office today both of our church secretaries were celebrating the end of their work week, decked out in these costumes (Uncle Sam from our Fireworks booth; the nun costume from a womens ministries skit - that was in good taste). Unfortunately I'm "of a certain age" so it didn't dawn on me to grab my Blackberry and snap a photo.

Coulda' been a GREAT shot for a future Sunday morning PowerPoint...

I've been exchanging emails with our new Generation's Pastor, Steve Henning. He and his wife Sharon both have a great sense of humor. I think my sharing today's mails pushed our support staff over the edge, hence the wardrobe change. We all need times like this, just to keep things interesting. We know the phrase, "All work and no play makes __________ (your name here) a dull boy/girl."

Funny, but it's true.

I spent some time with a life and ministry coach for a year in '08 to '09. One of the things that I learned about myself is that I'd been taking myself too seriously. I found that I was allowing myself to get "wound a little too tight." When this happens, we miss too much of the joy that God has created for our lives. I have lists, both mental and physical, that I have to get done or else.

Or else what?

Or else...I dunno. It's just something ridiculous that I put on myself. How about you?

Oh sure, there are things we need to get done. I'm just one of those guys who liked to put a triple portion on his plate, when a single would have been just fine. Talk about a glutton for punishment...

Every third world country I've been in I've met people who have less than what I carry around and take for granted in the trunk of my car. And yet I have seen their smiling faces and spoken with them and found a joy and happiness that many of us here in the greatest nation on earth completely miss - including many Christ-followers in our churches. We have so much...stuff. All these folks have is their hope and faith in Jesus.

It makes all the difference.

So when Uncle Sam and a nun showed up at the office today, instead of righteous indignation, I just howled instead...glad for another glorious intrusion where value-added moments extended my life beyond my puny little lists...

How 'bout them lists?

Church Tragedy Gone Awry

2010-10-27T16:17:00.000-07:00

It's been an interesting day to say the least.

It began this morning with word that one of our long-time members, Royce Deardorff, was involved in a horrible truck accident in Northeast Wyoming. Royce and his wife Betty moved to Wyoming for three to five years to work for a trucking company in order to position themselves for retirement. After that they'll be returning home to Bend.

It all started last night at 9 PM. One of the company's trucks in Royce's purview got a flat. The driver pulled it off the side of the road and called Royce for help. Knowing Royce as I do, he jumped right in and was the guy to change the tire. Unfortunately it dawned on the driver that he had failed to set the emergency break on that slick road about the moment a set of double tires was rolling over Royce's head and torso...

Royce was life-flighted from a small town in Wyoming to Billings, Montana.

The reports began to come in. Pelvis crushed, broken arm, internal bleeding. Prognosis, not life threatening, but not good. Then the second report came in. Pelvis not broken but ball joint on one femur broken off and out of the hip socket and a broken arm. Then the last report came in. Broken arm, broken ribs, ball joint not broken and now back in the hip socket on its own, and some broken "wings" on his lower vertebrae.

I was hoping for one more report. By then he would have been walking out of the hospital...!

Talk about a church tragedy gone wrong. The pessimists among us would have implored that, "If you're going to be a mess, stay a mess so we can wallow together in your misery." Instead, after people were praying the situation kept improving!

His son John said that when his dad realized he was about to be run over, he held his breath and made his body tense to take the weight of the truck rolling over the top of him. And so after having his head run over, he's lucid and talking in the ICU unit.

We give thanks to the Lord we won't be doing what we probably all suspect we should be doing...driving to Montana, then Wyoming to collect Betty and Royce's stuff...and a coffin.

When life bites and we circle the proverbial 'wagons,' we immediately find out whom we can truly count on. A loving family, a church family that prays, and a GREAT, MIGHTY AND AWESOME GOD!

Years ago as a seaman, Royce walked off of an aircraft carrier in his sleep. There was no hope of finding him. He awoke immediately when he hit the water, but no one saw him slip off into the darkness. He began to swim in the direction he knew land would be. In the middle of the night in the lonely darkness of the waters around him he heard a voice telling him to swim the other direction. I'm certain that he had many conversations with God that night besides that specific one I've just mentioned. The rest of the story? He's married with grandchildren, laying in a hospital in Montana waiting for the rest of his miracle to arrive. All because he obeyed God's voice that night and swam unknowingly into the path of a fishing boat.

Oh yes, national headlines...

God isn't finished with Royce yet. Neither is He finished with you and I.

We are collectively miracles that can count each day a blessing. There's nothing like a good ruination of a church tragedy!

Shirt Off Your Back

2010-10-26T16:09:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday at Faith our ~~Grand Poohbah~~, our ~~Denominational State Superintendent~~, our Network Lead Pastor and wife were with us at Faith.

Third time's a charm...

It was a pleasure to have Pastor Bill and Joy Wilson at Faith last weekend. The position has been officially called "Superintendent" in the past but is now "Lead Pastor." They are the elected and defacto leaders of the Assemblies of God in Oregon. I think what I liked the most is that they function together as a team, pastoring a group of people whom at times are the most challenging church in the world...ministers. Pastor Bill came and preached a great message on miracles, encouraging everyone in the room. He also had done his homework, contextualizing the message to our church and community.

It was amazing, but this former large-church-and-city-pastor just "fit."

There are a lot of things that impress me. Walking and chewing gum at the same time are NOT overrated. Other than that, it is the extraordinary that gets my attention. I am thinking about what happened after the service, how our Lead Pastors spent time with the awesome people I serve, and then going to the restaurant with me and sharing their hearts and trying to find ways to help me instead of vice-versa.

You want to give people like that the shirt off your back...

What impresses me? When people of any "position" sit down in front of you with the intention of being your friend. And yes, we should all be humbled whenever anyone would want to be our friend...

And now it's our move to do the same with others.

Swan Song

2010-10-25T15:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Pastor Dick Stein's last day at Faith. What a marvelous show of appreciation there was as the church spontaneously rose and recognized his ministry and sacrifice among us. You see, our friend served among us for over seven years as a full-time volunteer.

Wow.

During his tenure Dick did the bulk of our pastoral care and counseling, having a Master's of Divinity degree in that area. He also was a loyal confidant and adviser to me as the Lead Pastor at Faith. However his greatest contribution came in the founding of Celebrate Recovery, our outreach ministry to people with "hurts, habits and hang-ups." That's right, a ministry that touches everyone of us. Through his love, care and ministry in this area many hundreds of people were profoundly touched through CR the last four years. As he leaves us to move with his wife Ellen to Arizona, he can look back and see a thriving ministry that he has handed off to trained leaders who have followed his own leadership for years. What a tremendous legacy.

While we may refer to his last two weeks here at Faith being his "Swan Song," we know that the best is yet to come for our good friend. The term about swan's actually singing comes from an old tale that the bird actually is mute until moments before death when it sings a beautiful song. Nope, not true at all. Swans are not mute - they hiss. And right before they die, if they make any noise at all it's most likely some form of the same hissing they've been up to all the days of their finite bird-life.

No, I don't believe that there is any hissing in the days ahead for our friend...

No 'Swan Songs' for Pastor Dick, no way. He's just too busy living for Jesus to be caught making an untoward sound...

Hello and Goodbye

2010-10-18T09:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a great day, and bittersweet as well.

The fun stuff first. I am pleased to announce that we have hired Pastor Steve and Sharon Henning as our new Generations Pastor! This couple is from Bakersfield, California where they served on staff at First Assembly as youth pastors. They are excited to be coming to Bend for this new challenge.

Yesterday at Faith Pastor Dick Stein, our Pastoral Care and Counseling staff member announced he was resigning and moving to Phoenix, Arizona where he will finish up his PhD and hopefully land a teaching position. We will miss "PD" - he was a blessing to us all. Notably during his eight years with us at Faith he founded Celebrate Recovery, the outstanding ministry to people with "hurts, habits and hang-ups" (yes, that refers to all of us!). Something that very few fail to realize is that PD served this entire season of his life as a volunteer. His reward one day will be great. We are all in his debt!

Next Sunday will be Pastor Dick's last day with us. We will be receiving a love offering to bless him on his way. We're hoping the Henning's will start at Faith the middle of November. They are awaiting the near arrival of a baby boy. Once the birth takes place, plans will be set. We say hello to one precious couple and goodbye to a dear friend.

Road Trip

2010-10-12T19:07:00.000-07:00

Wow.

My wife Tami and I left after church on Sunday and drove non-stop to Bakersfield, California. There we met with some really great people and interviewed them for our Generations Pastor position at Faith. And then we promptly got in our car and drove home. It was 24 hours on the road in 36 hours.

Yikes!

We made the drive, due to extenuating circumstances as this candidate's wife is too far along in her pregnancy to travel efficiently, and that if we invite them to come on a visit to Bend, only her husband will be able to come at this time. We're glad we made the trip too - way worth it, and extremely encouraging on a level beyond our staff search.

I've been involved in a few searches for staff members. One time there were very few applicants and we ended up with an OUTSTANDING choice. That one stayed for ten years and then went to our denomination's state office. This process has been different in that there are more resume's but not all of them can move due to homes needing to be sold in a woeful housing market. You get excited and then have to recoil as the same story seems to repeat itself. But one thing stands out in my mind; these are all great people. It wasn't long ago that we saw very few younger people going into full-time ministry. Now that trend has been reversed. I'm really appreciative of the quality of folks we've been talking with. It has been an unexpected privilege.

We're nearing the end of our search - Lord willing - and we know the the best is yet to come. But what a ride! And what a relief to see great people coming up through the ministry pipeline. When you go the distance on the road trip of life, it's worth it all...

Exactly Right

2010-10-07T15:31:00.000-07:00

I'm nearing the end of our process in hiring a new associate pastor here at Faith. This certainly has been a season of transition at the Church, probably going back to the beginning of the recession a couple of years ago.

Change is inevitable. That things are going to change is something that never changes. Even the position we're looking to fill is outside the norm. Instead of a youth pastor or children's pastor, we're looking for a hybrid who will do both in a creative way.

The hard part has been, we don't exactly know what that means...

There is an old story that has often been told in churches and business board rooms across our country. It's that of a couple men who came by a building that a boy was firing arrows into the side of. The men looked up and could not believe the accuracy of the youth as each shot was a bulls-eye! Both men gasped and exclaimed to the young man where he had learned to shoot like that? The boy said nothing as he knocked another arrow onto the string, pulled the bow back and released the projectile. It flew with authority until it struck it's intended target...which turned out to be an unmarked location on the side of the building. The men both moaned in unison, that their presence had somehow hindered the boy for the first time on his quest for perfection. Still speechless, the boy walked over to the errant arrow sticking out of the side of the building, took out a marker and drew concentric circles and a brand new bulls-eye. You guessed it; he created the illusion of yet another perfect shot!

Moral? Too many aim at nothing and draw a target; instead be the one who has a target to aim at. You'll get what needs to be done, done.

Our target is someone, a very specific person, "God's person" who will lead both of our children's and youth ministries. But we're not looking for a youth guy or children's guy (or girl). We're specifically looking for the person we're supposed to have, to be used by God to do what He wants to get done here at Faith. That's exactly whom we're looking for.

Even though I used the term "specific" twice in the previous paragraph, what I'm really talking about is a bit fuzzy. I regret to even suggest that we will hire someone and draw a target around them. Again, the truth is, we simply don't know exactly how it's all going to work. All we know is that our specific target is the "right" person.

This will be the second strategic hire here at Faith where it's been more important to get the "right" person on board with us, than to find a role player. Business guru Jim Collins in his book, "Good to Great" (HarperCollins, 2001) calls it, "Getting the right people on the bus." In essence, we're trying to find the "right person" within the nuance of God's leading, to build a portfolio around their talents, gifts and abilities to be able to help us go from good to great in these two specific areas of ministry.

Further, the target itself is a new term, "Generation's Pastor." There is NO WAY that one person can be both a children's and youth pastor. But what we are talking about is a team builder who can strengthen the teams and leaders in both areas and administrating both. It means that they will lead through one team and be "hands on" in the other area of ministry. It also fits neatly into the Bible's admonition to "equip believers for ministry."

Obviously, a big decision is on the horizon. We need as many of you as possible who attend Faith to be praying, and others who, well, love me and/or the Church to be praying for this decision. Further, what happens here at Faith in the years ahead in regard to this choice will have a huge impact in our region over how ministry is done.

With God's considerable help, we want this to be, "exactly right."

He "IS"

2010-10-05T20:19:00.000-07:00

Went to our "Men of Faith" meeting tonight at Church. Great bunch of guys. It was a privilege to hear two of our men share about what God is doing in their lives.

I read a quote today that was along the lines of knowing who God was in the Scripture, but also knowing that He still "IS" in the 'nasty here and now.' The same power that raised Christ from the dead dwells in the life of every Christian. Jesus told us that with the faith of a mustard seed, we can move mountains. I've seen them, both mountains that moved and mustard seeds. One is pretty small, among the smallest of all seeds. The other, well, they're monstrous.

God "IS."

Because He IS, everything can change in a moment's notice. Prayer is answered, prodigals come home, emotional and physical wounds are bound and miracles happen.

Yup, all that "lame walk, blind see stuff."

More...Lord.

Yesterday at Faith

2010-10-04T16:07:00.000-07:00

Wow.

It was another great day at Faith yesterday. Loved worshiping together, kneeling together and celebrating the presence of Jesus in the house! Sharing the message was fun as we continued our series, "Unshakable." Our key theme yesterday was having both feet firmly planted in a kingdom culture. The second point of the message was driven home by the following YouTube clip of the 'tail end' of worship leader Jason Upton's, "Back to the Father." It has poor sound quality, but I think you'll get the gist. Yup, church was awesome!

Hunting Season

2010-10-04T15:57:00.001-07:00

Shared at Faith yesterday:

It’s deer season and a number of our people are out in the woods this weekend and the next few weeks. I came across a story while preparing today’s message. I hope you like it!

A man living in a semi-rural area, Weyauwega, Wisconsin writes, “We recently had a new neighbor call the local township administrative office to request the removal of the Deer Crossing sign on our road. The reason: 'Too many deer are being hit by cars out here! – I don't think this is a good place for them to be crossing anymore.'”

Methods Vs Message

2010-09-29T10:14:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine sent me a link to an article out of our denomination's quarterly journal. It was a reminder to me to make sure that the "main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing." I've written about this before and likely will again because it is so important that we keep right priorities in front of us.

This is so true in the church world where I serve. Every pastor struggles with the trappings of what our culture says is success. Usually that means leading a large church or a megachurch (attendance over 2,000).

Basically this measurement means that I'm not successful. In fact, due to the economy we've actually shrunk the last couple of years.

The temptation is for pastors like me to project some sort of spiritual excuse for the size of our church. What we really need to focus on is doing the things that we're supposed to be doing that are laid out in the Scripture (I know, that in itself is a spiritual answer that could be construed as an excuse!). I'm reminded of the adage that has been a mainstay of the modern church growth movement of,

"Methods Change but the Message Remains the Same."

I agree. In fact we're going through a number of methodology changes here at Faith. I've changed wardrobe, we've been remodeling and updating our facility, we've changed our portfolios, our music has been updated...the list goes on and on.

As I reflect it's important for me to note that,

"When the method becomes more important than the message, the message changes."

It's true. And that's what scares me to the core of my calling and vocation. Do we throw out change because of the truth of such a statement? Absolutely not! Otherwise we would never grow in our faith. But we must be diligent in remaining current without compromise.

What scares you?

Anchors

2010-09-28T14:36:00.001-07:00

In light of the current series I'm speaking through at Faith, "Unshakable," we have an ever present need to have "anchors" in this life. When we left the home of our youth to either go off to college or pursue a career, there were certain things that we knew about our parents that made them a mainstay in our future. For example, many of us understood that we had an anchor at home, that our parents would be there to offer their advice and emotional support. The transition from our youth to adulthood can be tricky. Just knowing that help was near can make a huge difference, no matter what problem we faced (or created!). What's so difficult to put our finger on is that what I'm speaking of is an "unspoken thing." We just know how our parents will respond in our time of need.

I recognize that this illustration breaks down for two reasons. The first is that not everyone reading this has had supportive parents who would walk us through life’s difficulties in the early going. They probably won't show up later either, which of course creates an issue for them WHEN THEY NEED SOME HELP. I know, it's horribly sad when we cut off the proverbial hand that feeds us.

The truth is some of us have been tossed out there to fend for ourselves whether we were ready or not. The second way this story breaks down is that something could happen to our parents where they would no longer be there to assist us.

But there is grace and mercy extended to us because of the fact that God is eternal. He's not going anywhere - even though we might... That’s where our faith is anchored – in knowing who God is and how He will respond to us in good times and in bad. There is an eternity waiting for us, and our our soul is in His hand. That's what the Apostle Paul was getting at when he wrote to his protege Timothy,

2 Timothy 1:12 - That is why I am suffering here in prison. But I am not ashamed of it, for I know the one in whom I trust, and I am sure that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until the day of his return. NLT

This is the anchor that hold in spite of the storm...

Fraught With Peril

2010-09-27T15:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we were in the second Sunday of our fall series, "Unshakable." The specific message was, "Building a Kingdom Culture." Loving the study!

I showed a video clip of a high wire act, workers who climb radio towers for a living. I'm attaching the long version here. We cut it about in half for our service. The point we were making is that life at times is a high wire act, at times fraught with peril. We need confidence and security line to be able to navigate life's journey. These guys depicted on this clip are, "Unshakable!" I watched it with the congregation Sunday and it made me really uncomfortable...which is why I'm sharing it here!! Enjoy!

A climb up the tallest tower @ Yahoo! Video

Crazy Faith and "Normal"

2010-09-23T12:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I finished writing the last lesson for our adult Faith Connections class, "Crazy Faith: Developing a Supernatural Lifestyle." It is based on the book bearing the class subtitle name by Kris Vallotton. Vallotton is a staff pastor at Bethel Church in Redding, California, a church that emphasizes being able to do all the "Jesus stuff" that He said that Christians could do. This means signs, wonders, miracles, healings and more are all possible because of the mandate of Christ, they we would live a life with "signs following."

We called this "Crazy Faith" because we're so far removed from this part of the Gospels in American Christianity. However, the truth be told this kind of lifestyle was intended to be normal.

Isn't that the real issue, defining "normal?"

Normal is what we usually do. What is normal for one is not always normal for others. For example, it is normal for a thief to steal. It is not normal for the rest of the population to do the same. There are normal activities that most churches are involved in. They include potlucks, board meetings, having some sort of worship service and probably a teaching time called Sunday school. Those are normal. But the Scripture says so much more about what should be normal. When we read about the life of Jesus and the response of the Apostles to that life, we get a different picture than going from one board meeting to the next potluck. It's a lifestyle where ANYTHING is possible.

Crazy, huh?

Lord, help us...help me do Your stuff!

Practice Makes Perfect

2010-09-22T10:13:00.000-07:00

Celebrated a quarter of a century of married life with my wife yesterday. We did Outback for steak with some friends whose anniversary was the day before. I am reminded that many of my peers from high school have been married longer than I have. It just took longer for me to find someone who was sympathetic and had the ability to look past my many and multifaceted faults and say, "Yes."

As I recall, maybe it was more of a hesitant, questioning, "Okay?"...

I remember kneeling on the dock at Dash Point State Park in Tacoma at sunset over 25 years ago, proposing to this amazing woman. She has been on this adventure with me through great joys and some sorrow. We've lived in great places, met and embraced some of the most extraordinary people on earth, traveled to locations around the world that some only dream of, raised three kids and together survived a past and present medical concern.

Yes, there were a few other things that happened between the events I've listed...

I think about and look forward to the day when our kids have flown the nest and start bringing grand kids over to sit on our laps. I'm looking forward to long quiet walks and drives where we don't need to say anything because just being together is enough. I'm looking forward to the rest of the journey we have together as we embrace God's goodness and grace because I know the difference and depth that God's presence brings a married relationship. I am blessed because of all the people in the world that I could have been with, He gave me my precious Tami. If living on the third rock from the sun is practice for eternity, I pray that our practicing together is long. That way eternity will be even more wonderful because "practice makes perfect."

Honey, I'd do it ALL over again with you...

As a Family Gathers

2010-09-21T09:37:00.000-07:00

Last Friday is was a high honor for me to preside over the graveside service of my Grandmother, Iris Enloe. Grandma was 90, and died peacefully at her assisted care facility in Stayton, Oregon. The only service was in Wapato, Washington at the graveside next to where her husband was buried. What follows is the text of the short service. I'm inserting here in my blog for two reasons; first, for family who couldn't make the trip and second, for those who think about their relationships with others within the context of your impact on the generations that follow you.

Iris Mae Enloe

August 19, 1920 - September 11, 2010

Scripture

John 14:1 - "Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. NLT

Psalm 24:3-5 - 3 Who may climb the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? 4 Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies. 5 They will receive the Lord's blessing and have a right relationship with God their savior. NLT

Prayer

Introduction

It’s not a mystery why we are here today. Our loved one has died, transitioning from one life into the next. When I think of Grandma, I’m reminded that some people character and some people are characters. I think it’s not lost on us that she was both!

Eulogy

She was loving. We’ve all experienced that about her. Her family was the apple of her eye. Being with her and hearing her speak of her kids and grandkids, I remember that she would grab onto something about each of us that spoke of who we are to her – always a positive of some kind – and she would repeat it several times. And this was Before she lost her short-term memory. And then she would look at me, just as she probably did with so many of us – whether we realized she was doing it or not – and speak into my life the positive that stood out in her mind that separated me from the rest of her loved ones. That was Grandma. That was your mom.

I’m the oldest of my generation in the Enloe clan. I didn’t learn the names of my cousins and their kids from my own mother, but from Grandma because she talked about them over and over again.

I also remember being in their home in California, staying for a week, and seeing Carol console her when Grandpa couldn’t come home when he was supposed to…

She made pies by hand. You daughters who call her asking how much sugar to use were equally frustrated by her response, “About a handful,” she would say. And then you’re complaint would follow about how big your hands were compared with hers…

She worked hard all of her life and later rode on the truck with Grandpa, to be with him.

She was also a person who would literally give to family her resources until there was none to give; and then find a way to give more.

She had this "tenacity" about her. I'm using that term but I think her daughters would call it something else! I’m persuaded that the Enloe/Wine family heritages can be pretty much classified as Heinz 57. In fact, a couple years ago I found our high cheekbones in a 1933 Cherokee nation roll book. A woman went off the reservation…which of course in some respects describes Grandma along with the rest of us. But within her make-up was a bit of Irish, a fast smile, and a quick flash of “look out!”

In Luke 6 Jesus said that we become like our teacher. It’s funny but I’ve known my mother to begrudge at times that she is becoming her mother, just like you, Sheryl and you, Carol have thought the same of yourselves. But I’ve observed you, and Larry as well over the years – especially that summer I spent with you (Larry). She’s given you the best about her. You are hardworking and giving and loving, having a good word about others. What a great legacy you carry!

Message

We started this afternoon with two passages. The one from Psalm 24 said,

This passage speaks about going up the hill to Jerusalem and standing in the Temple of God. Who may stand? Let me explain, based on this passage not one of us can stand in His holy place. This was the Old Testament. In order for people to ascend to the Temple, they had to go through ritual baths in order to symbolically cleanse themselves. It wasn’t a water park, but there was a lot of water used to enable people to be able to access the House of God. Most of us here have only had one such bath, at our baptism. In light of the context that this passage was written, not one of us is qualified to stand.

But the great news is that we don’t live under this system anymore. The Old Testament passage is still valid, but for a different reason. The system changed with the coming of Jesus Christ to this earth, Who died once and for all for our sins, abolishing the need for these physical rituals to take place. The cleansing that takes place now is on the inside and is only possible through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

And then Jesus rose again from the grave, and we can know His presence everyday in our lives. He and I talked on the way up here this morning in the car. We are going to be talking about what I’m going to preach on this Sunday. He is ever-present for those who call on His Name and embrace Him as Lord.

The other passage we began with said,

John 14:1-6 - "Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.

That’s solace for each of us today, but then it continues this way:

2 There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. 4 And you know the way to where I am going."

5 "No, we don't know, Lord," Thomas said. "We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?"

6 Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. NLT

Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. He’s the only way.

Talking with Grandma

A couple years ago, and then much more recently I had the talk with Grandma about eternity. The first time she actually brought it up. We were at Olive Garden where I was trying to get her to eat… With that grin of her on her face she said, “Mikey, I don’t have a lot of time left.” I said, “I know, but you probably have longer than you think. You’re in pretty good shape!” And then she said, “The Lord has been good to me.” I said, “Yes He has, and He loves you so very much.” And then we went into a conversation about heaven and how we can know that we are going to heaven – because of our embracing the person of Jesus Christ as Savior.

I’m convinced by our conversation that she was ready. And then more recently, I brought it up, and agreed again that she was ready.

Illustration: Zach.

Our oldest son just started college. A few weeks ago we were having a father-son talk about his spiritual life. Frankly we talked about the kind of man that he was becoming and going to church while he is away at school. I said to him,

“You’ve got to own your own faith. I can’t live for Jesus for you. You already know that me being a pastor does not get you into heaven. But you being a Christian man does.”

As we conclude

There are markers all around this cemetery, symbols of lives lived among us and previous generations. But Grandma is not here. The remains of her life that matter are in you and I.

We remember before grandpa died that in his last stages of Alzheimer’s he was found reaching out to his loved ones over his death bed who had gone on before him. What an amazing picture of the reality of heaven! Today, Grandma is with Grandpa and Jesus!

Today we commit the physical remains of a wife, a mother, a grandmother and friend to the ground, recognizing that those things which truly matter and are lasting remain with us in our hearts and with God in His direct presence in heaven today and evermore.

Closing prayer

Giving

2010-09-21T09:15:00.000-07:00

For those who are part of Faith here in Bend, I received the enclosed message from our missionaries in Tijuana, Mexico, Art and Joyce Stoneking. The back story is that we raised some monies to send a team of workers to help construct an orphanage under the care of these dear friends. We've joined hands with them about eight times now on missions trips on various church and orphanage projects. This time when we discovered that the work would primarily be block laying, we realized that the team we had assembled was completely unskilled at this task. So instead we just sent the money and they have hired local skilled labor from their circle of churches in the city. Here's the note:

"Hi Pastor Mike,
"I just wanted to let you know that we got the floor poured for the second story on the orphanage. Wow, feeling pretty good about that one. Now, we are going to start buying some heavy steel to start on the second story. Guess who is responsible for that? You guessed it---our Oregon amigos (Is that anything like Bend-able buddies?-groan) Anyway, we're looking for some good bids right now and hope to have our guys here start work on that in the next couple of weeks. Pretty cool, huh? Just wanted to keep you updated and to thank you once again for being such a blessing to us and our kids. Art and Joyce"

What a pleasure it is to give to the Lord! While some of us may be "groaning," I think I speak for all of us here at Faith when I say that there is a huge smile on each one of our faces!

Blessings!

Welcome to Reality

2010-09-15T21:49:00.000-07:00

I received a phone call this early evening from our son who is a freshman in college. He's playing baseball for the school and today was the first full day of workouts. They started from 12:30 PM and concluded at 6:30 PM.

He said he can't move.

I think it's hilarious.

He and his bottle of Advil are going to be good friends...

Golf Lesson

2010-09-14T14:49:00.000-07:00

I'm a horrid golfer, but am finally improving after taking a couple of lessons over the last year. The first one was from my caddy in Kenya. His lesson was to not chase my errant ball into the scrub brush surrounding the golf course and let him do it.

Apparently black mamba's (snake, VERY poisonous) bite...

I took my second lesson from a good friend of mine at Faith who also helps one of the local high school girls golf team. I wish that I could say that I hit the ball better than a girl, but I met one the other day at a local course from said high school that has a single digit handicap.

Oh well...

I was sent this video clip today and found it to be quite simple and very instructive on the game of golf. I'm hopeful that it helps everyone, especially the novice:

One Nasty Cup of Coffee

2010-09-13T09:58:00.001-07:00

Anyone that knows me knows I like a good cup of coffee. When I get to the office, often I’m the one making the caffeinated beverage. It never seems to get done brewing as fast as I want to start drinking it. When it's finished, I pour a cup with expectancy and then I bring it to my office. I used to set it down on my desk, where a while later the cup would be half gone, but its contents luke warm. So I discovered what a cup warmer was and use one every work day. Cup warmers are finicky devices. I have the variety that doesn’t turn off unless I manually flip a switch. If I leave half a cup of coffee warming all night, I get this wonderful shellac in the bottom of the cup.

I spoke on the subject of "Re-Thinking Church" yesterday at Faith, as part of a special "Back to Church" emphasis. Church and our need to re-think it sometimes is like a cup of coffee. When we come to Christ we can't wait to devour everything we can as soon as possible. But over time we can can allow our faith to grow cold and start going through the motions instead of the reality of what it means to walk with the person of Jesus Christ. And then we discover the heater – the worship of God, hearing His Word and applying it to our lives.

Yup, it's about being together with others in church...

But even in church, if we're not spiritually open to what God wants to do in our lives, and not allowing our "cups" to be refilled, pretty soon our faith can become like shellac. That's when things go from being all about Jesus to all about me.

That's one nasty cup of coffee...

Offended Pt 2

2010-09-09T12:01:00.000-07:00

Came across this from an email a friend sent me today. It's a CNN report that's over a year old about Bible burning by the United States government in Afghanistan. It's pretty interesting in light of the issue of "Koran burning" by a church in Florida this weekend (which I'm personally against - that is does more harm than good).

What do you think?

Offended

2010-09-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

I'm wearing slacks, my PGA Championship Cutter & Buck polo, a sweet Nike vest...the sticks are in the car in the parking lot...golf shoes are on the seat...two different jackets for whatever Central Oregon weather might dish out...ball marker in my pocket...

...and I'm a week early!

Wow, did I mess this one up!

One of my golfing partners said that I had "a blond moment." Being that my wife is blond and she's smarter than me, I might suggest a "gray" moment. But of course I've just offended another people group - everyone who currently has or have lived through the raising of middle school students in their home...

Oops, yet another people group.

Being offended is a natural position for some. Anytime someone disagrees with this kind of person, they're offended. The truth is, my very existence offends some people. I know this because I've met them. But the point is that I don't consciously go out of my way to offend others. In numerous places in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 13:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:12, etc.) we are reminded to live at peace with others, thereby demonstrating the love of God that is active in our lives. Burning Koran's on the anniversary of September 11th is probably not the way to follow the clear teaching and admonition of the Spirit. Neither is bombing abortion clinics or shooting the doctors who work in them.

Yes I know, I'm meddling now. Remember, this discussion started with a blond joke.

You know what the hard part is? Sometimes in my own ignorance, I'm that guy; full-on "completely empty bottle peroxide dude."

See, I did it again - offended yet another people group...

Expectancy

2010-09-08T14:14:00.000-07:00

Among the recent transitions in the Johnson household has been a right of passage for our daughter. She passed her tests. She is now a licensed driver.

I've thought about trying to convince her that it means that she is only legal driving around our neighborhood, but of course that just won't do. I've even thought about telling her that an Oregon Drivers License only works here in our state, but yea verily, another well-intended falsehood.

Besides, she's ready.

The driving test at the DMV can be a harrowing experience. Every kid hears from their friends about how easy it is or how hard it is or how unfair it is.

Nope, never heard the one about the test being fair from a 16-year-old...

My daughter heard from a good number of her brother's friends, each of whom flunked the driving test the first time around (come to think of it, what does that say about her brother?). So like many students, she was pretty paranoid about whether or not she would pass. She fretted, she was anxious and really stressed out. Friends, think about it; how are YOU doing as the parent of a completely stressed-out 16-year-old daughter? It's the answer to the question, "Where does gray hair come from?"

The day finally came for her early morning test. She came into the family room where I was reclining in sweats, a t-shirt and slippers. The paper was in my hand and my coffee was steaming hot nearby. She had her make-up on, her hair done and was adorned in some snazzy clothes with a really cool looking scarf. I asked her with a large question mark in my voice, "What are you doing?" She said,

"I'm getting ready for my picture."

That's when I knew she was going to pass.

Our theme at Faith this year (and likely next) is "Expectancy." We have great expectations of what God can and will do in our midst at our church, in our homes and places of work. Expectancy is just like my little girl (dad's everywhere unite: they will always be our little girls) believing she was going to pass her test. It is not a step of faith on our part - no steps are involved. It's just that simple yet profound position of "knowing" God and having a glimpse in our souls of what is possible.

I'm thinking that the problem of so many of us is how often we've been reclining in our sweats instead of putting on our snazzy scarves because we've forgotten what can happen with God's help in the next moment...

I know that I know that I know. But oh to know You more, Lord...

Who are You Bringing to "Back to Church Sunday?"

2010-09-07T14:40:00.001-07:00

For those who live in the Bend area, we're getting ready for our first "Back to Church Sunday" event. We're inviting all of our regular attenders back after summer vacations along with all newcomers in the area.

The theme for Sunday's service is, "Re-Discoverer Sundays." It's going to be a great time, and no, it won't be a "bait and switch day." It will be one of our normal services with some free grocery certificates randomly given out to new guests, just for fun! Everyone who comes for the first time to Faith will get a free espresso.

Who are you going to bring?

Back from Limbo-land

2010-09-07T14:29:00.000-07:00

I'm back from "Limbo-land," located somewhere near, "Too-Much-Going-on-Right-Now-to-Blog," Oregon.

I'm looking forward to being back in the saddle in the days ahead. Lots to talk about on this Faith Journey Adventure, including family transitions that have happened in the Johnson household recently.

More to follow.

Blessings!

"Contemprevent"

2010-05-12T15:19:00.001-07:00

"Sunday's Coming" Movie Trailer from North Point Media on Vimeo.

Been under some pressure lately due to life at Faith being a bit hectic right now, so I've had other priorities superceding this blog. I'm back today with something I think you'll get a kick out of. I came across this funny look at how we do church the other day. It's from the folks at North Point Church in Atlanta. Everything on this parody describes the latest style of worship in church circles. We're doing about all of them except the video introductions for a certain style of sermons called, "narrative." And yes, half of our staff do sport tat's. If you do not attend church, you probably won't see a lot of humor in it. Don't worry, it's just Christian people laughing at themselves. Refreshing thought, huh?

Hope you enjoy it!

"Expectancy Sunday," Recap

2010-04-26T15:46:00.000-07:00

Another great day at Faith! And yes, I love repeating that phrase week after week!

"Expectancy Sunday" was awesome.

Yesterday was our special Sunday where we prayed for the specific needs of the people in attendance. Yes, we do that same thing every week at the conclusion of our services, but this was a very specifically focused time. Basically we had 22 of our men fasting and praying (along with many others at Faith) over the last several weeks for God "to be God" yesterday. I spoke briefly, sharing some Scripture and a few stories of recent miraculous healings in our church and at another in our region, to encourage the faith of those in attendance. Then we called our selected men who had fasted and prayed to come forward in teams of two to pray for needs.

It was an amazing time.

Nearly half of those in attendance came forward to be prayed for. It was another one of those awesome, presence-of-God-filling-the-place happenings. When noon rolled around I gave a release for those who needed to leave. Very few did. A goodly number of us were were there as we concluded nearly an hour later.

Some excellent reports have rolled in and we're waiting for more to come. It was not a day of praying for someone and then have a testimonial of what happened. While it wasn't our format in the first place, there were too many needs to take time to do "exit interviews." Further, in most cases for those who were physically healed we encourage a trip to see the priest, er, doctor (Matthew 8:4) to confirm what God has done for them. There is encouragment and faith-building power in a confirmed testimony! We also are preparing to come along side those who needed prayer for life-controlling issues. Most often the beginning of healing is asking forgiveness for what we've done. In these cases forgiveness comes in a moment but full and complete healing may take a lifetime. By God's grace we are able to walk through these situations. It's just human stuff...surrendered into the hands of a Savior.

As always, days like these confirm for us that the best is yet to come. From time to time it's pretty cool to be here on this third rock from the sun. It reminds us of how incredibly great heaven is going to be.

Expectancy Sunday: Waiting

2010-04-20T22:57:00.000-07:00

It's late and I'm in the Willamette Valley, holed up in a hotel room while at an annual conference for our denomination. It's been excellent, inspiring content, and I've enjoyed seeing and being with my ministry peers. I arrived Monday night.

Great hotel room. Spacious. Impecable and clean. In fact, one of my better experiences for an amazingly great price. But not ONE of the lamps worked in my room until a few hours ago. I went around the room once when I arrived and tried each one Monday afternoon. Nothing. I was thinking that there must be a breaker out in the room, or one of those convenient wall switches that turns on the bottom outlet.

I arrived back from dinner tonight and plugged my computer in. On a whim I unplugged the light on the hotel room desk and plugged in my power supply. That's when something really strange happened; the light came on in the little window on my power supply that said "the juice is flowing."

Hummmm...

I started turning on lights. Nothing. Then I did something silly, switching on a light and seemingly "willing" it to come on. AND IT DID. I'd like to say it was a miracle, but integrity dictates that I inform you that it was operator error. It was in that moment I realized that every bulb in the room was one of those newer flourecent energy savers, the kind that require a little patience and waiting for something to happen.

I still feel silly and am still laughing at myself. I was thinking about this weekend's special service and our theme, "Expectancy." I was expecting the lights to come on in my own timing, according to my own experience and expectations. When it didn't happen my way I became a bit frustrated.

Was thinking about God's ways being higher than our ways and His thoughts higher than ours (that Scripture is a complete understatement).

Was thinking that Expectancy Sunday is all about God having His way and not us.

Was thinking that waiting was part of this process.

Was thinking that instant results was likely part of it as well.

Was thinking still that maybe all that is required of each of us is to give God room to do what He wants to.

Am thinking that all of this means that we have us a meetin' and let God...be God.

What more could any of us ever ask for?

"Expectancy Sunday:" Getting Warmed Up!

2010-04-19T15:30:00.000-07:00

Another great day at Faith yesterday!

We're already looking ahead to this coming weekend's, "Expectancy Sunday" (April 25th), our special focus day on miracles, healing and provision. Yesterday seemed like a warm up for what was to come.

One of our ladies had fallen down a flight of stairs late last week and wrenched her knee pretty badly. She said it was one of those times where you want to cry but instead laugh as she lay in a pile of her arms and legs at the figurative and literal "landing." Yes, she laughed as she was completely embarrassed.

She and her husband arrived at church where I noticed that she would barely walked. She should have been on crutches. I don't know if she went to the doctor or not; she was just in bad shape. She is part of our Sunday morning prayer class and intercessors. They prayed for her and her leg, while improved, was still exhibiting pain. Service began, and as sometimes happens we have people move from their pew to the front area of the Sanctuary in front of the platform to worship Jesus. While it is somewhat demonstrative, their is a sense of order and focus on our Lord. This dear woman came forward. About halfway through the second song, she began to leap up and down and spin around, letting out a few declarations of thanks.

I didn't know what was going on, just that it was clear in my mind that everyone was watching her and not worshiping. She calmed down fairly quickly, moving over to our head intercessor who was excited for her as they clasped hands in front of the altar. It was at this moment our head intercessor came over and told me what had happened - that Jesus had healed the woman's knee.

Then I remembered her barely being able to walk earlier...

During all of that "walking and leaping and praising God," she wasn't embarrassed this time either...

During the greeting time that followed the morning prayer for needs, I spoke with another attender with a physical, life controlling issue. I told my friend what had happened in right in front of them, and asked what they would do if Jesus took away their malady as well...

I'm going to enjoy seeing that.

And yes, I had the healed woman tell the whole church what had happened to her right before I shared the message. I also used her later as an illustration.

That's one sermon illustration most of those folks will never forget!

It's Monday, but Sunday's-a-comin'. 'Practicing' Christians realize that the presence and power of the Holy Spirit can move at any time or any day on this Faith Journey Adventure. But wow, this weekend is going to be amazing for one reason and one reason alone: the presence of God. Perhaps God will do the amazing on behalf of a needy people.

And so our expectancy increases...

Expectancy Sunday - A Pretty Good Line

2010-04-15T15:10:00.000-07:00

Here at Faith we are leaning towards Sunday, April 25th with our big, "Expectancy Sunday" event as we specifically pray for miracles and healing. This week I've heard an amazing story from a congregant who received incredible news concerning a huge health issue - that they are now healed after the prayers of many and the touch of Jesus. I also heard this morning about another who needs a joint replacement and are looking forward to this special day.

I'm thinking right now about people I need to invite to be with us that day.

I've mentioned yesterday that I was in the Corinthian letters for my devotions. In 1 Corinthians 14:28 I read again about the concept of looking around the congregation to make sure that certain gifted people were 'in the house' before engaging in a specific gift of the Spirit. The discussion was about speaking in tongues and having someone there to interpret. If no one is there to interpret, then the person with the public gift of tongues is to remain silent until such a time that someone is in attendance who can supernaturally or naturally (speaks the language) interpret.

It's an incredible discussion in that it reminds us of the function of the early church (which should be our function now); they knew who the gifted were among them. We don't talk about that very often. Well, EVER. We don't think about this kind of stuff. We just know that there are people in our midst who are gifted by the Holy Spirit, and hope that when God is speaking through them that they are listening and will speak up. However, we tend not to look around and see who's there and what we might expect from them. In fact, we don't like that approach because we don't want a performance - which at times was clearly a problem for the Corinthians.

We really should be asking a question like, "How did these people get these gifts?" Yes, God gave them. But how did it happen? Did they wake up one morning and begin prophesying?

We need milk in our house because our kids drink it. I don't have a cow in the backyard. So I go to the grocery store and get some milk (okay, I go to Costco, but what's the not the point). The Apostle Paul tells us to eagerly desire spiritual gifts, and the greater gifts because they build up the Church.

My desire to have milk in our house requires me to go get it...

If the gifts are from the Holy Spirit, it seems pretty logical that we would ask for the gifts. The Apostle Paul also writes about God being a father who wants to give good gifts to His children.

Free gifts from dad? That's a pretty good line to get into.

On the other hand, if I gave my child a gift that they didn't use or appreciate, I would think twice about what to get them next. I know, that's an awful analogy, but true. When God gives gifts to Christians, we need to be using them and taking care of them. We need to exercise them so we are well versed in how to use them.

At Faith, we have prayer teams who pray on Sundays and intercessors who pray during the week for specific needs in the church. I'm in that group. As we approach "Expectancy Sunday," let us be reminded of our theme for the year (expectancy) and that 'now is the time' to step up our faith for the incredible to happen!

Pray for the God-stuff to happen! We have desperate people in our church and community who need God's intervention in their lives...through the gifts that He has so freely given.

Who are you inviting?

Embarrassment Counts for Something

2010-04-14T10:08:00.000-07:00

Yet again, another surprise of Jesus...

During devotions this morning I read something in the Scripture from a fresh, modern version, the New Living Translation (love it for daily reading). What I read caught me off guard as it dealt with an area of doctrinal practice that is a known strength in the fellowship that I serve. In the midst of my reading I came across a nuance that I had not considered before, having swallowed "the party line" that I was taught while growing up. And no, for anyone that cares, I'm not "backsliding" from the doctrine of the denomination that I serve. I used the term, "nuance." I can still sign my credential renewal without hesitation!

So I quickly grabbed the best (my opinion) English translation available, the English Standard Version and re-read the passage. Wow, same thing. Then I grabbed a commentary on the subject.

Same thing.

Oops!

I have read this and read this and taught this and taught this, but this is the first time that I caught the nuance of the text. And no, I'm not going to discuss this nuance with you...because it's a little embarrassing!

Actually, REALLY embarrassing. It's that whole pride deal. I'm watching now proverbial rocks to stumble over, lest I skin my nose in the fall that's coming...

This whole thing reminds of of being taught that the animals went on Noah's ark, two by two. Sure they did - all of the "unclean" animals. The "clean" ones went on by sevens. Not given to great Bible reading and consistent personal devotions while growing up, I never caught that one either. I never caught it until I got to Bible College (which was another surprise on my journey toward a career path) and missed it on a Bible knowledge placement test. I scored a 37%.

Clueless.

I wrote yesterday that "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" which I noted of course, that the statement is a lie. The key is never to be "an old dog" between our ears, regardless of age or experience. I suppose my point in all of this is that if we're humble, we'll learn something new everyday...which of course leads to even more humility.

I know, I didn't share about my previous misconception, because the Lord is still working on my humility.

Then again, embarrassment has got to count for something!

I'm reminded of that great piece of doctrine that we used to sing a lot when we were much younger:

Jesus loves me this I know

For the Bible tells me so;

Little ones to Him belong

They are weak but He is strong;

Yes, Jesus Loves me!

The Bible tells me so!

First Time

2010-04-13T16:00:00.000-07:00

Life's little lessons are all around us...

Sunday night I was filling in for one of our associate pastors in leading their small group. What a privilege it was! What dear and precious people!

It was our senior's group that night. I thoroughly enjoyed the study, the prayer and comraderie of the group. Their insights were excellent and their love and concern for one another, particularly for our associate pastor whose sibling had just gone to be with Jesus that evening (the reason for my filling in), was exquisite.

This group, like most of our Faith Journey Groups (home cell groups) has food or refreshments to begin the evening. It was the turn of one of the couples that evening to bring the light meal. It was terrific! It was the first time that I had ever had apples in my tuna fish (I know, you've loved it for years!). There was also a freshly baked cake there as well, and yes, pretty good!

And then the remarkable came to light. The husband of the couple who brought the food had made it. It was his first cake-making-experience in all of his 73 years.

I was thinking that the person who came up with the adage, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks," was completely short-sighted...and a liar.

Sometimes we need to try something new before we say we can't do it.

Was watching a DVD yesterday on functioning in the gift of the Holy Spirit called a word of knowledge. I have been given on a few occasions to function in this gift and a few others, but not with any frequency. Watching the teaching on the subject reminded me that everything takes practice; in this case practicing hearing the voice of the Holy Spirit.

Who knows? Maybe you'll hear the voice of the Spirit and get it right the first time...

Lousy At It

2010-04-12T15:59:00.000-07:00

Loved church yesterday! What a great day!

I've been noticing that a lot lately, especially over the past two-plus years. The music was amazing, preaching a privilege, concluding with the Lord's Supper and then moving into a shared meal for missions and our annual business meeting (18 minutes long!) was all awesome, awesome, AWESOME!

Balloting for board members continued the trend of being very close. We are incredibly blessed to have so many qualified people to serve. It is a reminder of the over all health of our church in a variety of areas.

I'm looking ahead today at our next big day at Faith (well, actually, this Sunday is going to be pretty terrific, but that's not what I'm getting at here). "Expectancy Sunday" on April 25 is a day that we are pointing towards with prayer and fasting. We're believing God for miracles and healings that day. There are so many needs within our own church, much less our community. We're asking our people to pray for the impossible to be made possible that day. Part of this process is to invite friends who need God's help. I know, when you think about it that would include everyone!

I'm also reminded that we pray for such supernatuaral adventures nearly every Sunday at Faith, so having a special day like this isn't like an Easter or Christmas service for us. But on this day we're believing, with expectancy, for the amazing. As much as we'd like, none of us can produce the supernatural. That all originates from heaven.

We love Bend, the scenery, the outdoor opportunities; but heaven it is not. If our streets were made of gold we'd already have dug them up...

We need Jesus to do the stuff we can't do on our own. Oh Lord, provide the amazing...because we're real lousy at it.

For those who are interested, you can pray along with us for our big Sunday. There is a prayer and fasting schedule on my April 7th blog that can be accessed by clicking here.

It's time.

Dead Men

2010-04-08T14:57:00.000-07:00

I was thinking today about a Christian's identity in Christ when a stray thought struck me; it goes like this:

"No one can wound, hurt or destroy a dead man."

Look up Romans 6:5-11 and you'll get it. Assaults against a Christian is a fleshly response. Why do we ever give quarter to such madness within our soul? Instead, may we humbly receive correction and allow any abusive nonsense to drip off of us!

Yes, it IS much harder than it sounds...or reads! That's why we need Jesus!

"Expectancy Sunday" and Fasting Help

2010-04-07T15:06:00.000-07:00

I’m pleased to share with you about out next “big Sunday” at Faith, coming up on April 25^th. Previously dubbed a “Matthew 11:5 service, we have now officially titled it, “Expectancy Sunday.” It’s a day that we are believing God to bring major change to hearts and lives through miracles and healings. In preparing for this special day, I am putting forth the following schedule of spiritual disciplines to help us get ready. I encourage each one at Faith to do so, and also for those outside the region to pray for us as well!

Here is the schedule:

Prayer Schedule for “Expectancy Sunday” – Daily & often!!

Fasting Schedule for “Expectancy Sunday”

April 7-11: One meal

April 12-18: One day

April 19-24: Two days

Special Prayer Meeting: Thursday, April 22^nd, 12:10 PM to 12:50 PM in the sanctuary.

Beginning Monday, April 12^th I will be posting some helpful blogs at www.bendfcc.com to help us prepare for this great event!

Here is a section of our annual fasting material that might be helpful in your participation for this special season. Below are a series of “forms” or “kinds” of fasts. Please pick the one that is most appropriate for you to use. As always, if you have any physical issues whatsoever, please contact your doctor before engaging in a regimen of fasting.

Forms of Fasting

1. The Normal Fast.

2. The Absolute Fast (Acts 9:9) "For three days he ... neither ate nor drank."

3. The Partial Fast (Daniel 10:3) "I ate no delicacies, no meat or wine entered my mouth."

4. Congregational Fast (Joel 2:15-16)

This is the kind of fast that our church will be participating in. Joel 2 says, "Blow a trumpet in Zion, declare a holy fast, call a sacred assembly. Gather the people, consecrate the assembly." NIV

At least a part of the congregation of the church at Antioch were fasting together in Acts 13:2, as evidenced by Luke's words, "While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting."

5. National Fasts (2 Chronicles 20:3).

Here is the response of King Jehoshaphat to an invasion in 2 Chronicles 20:3: "Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah."

The Jews were called to a national fast in Nehemiah 9:1 and Esther 4:16, and the king of Nineveh proclaimed a fast in response to the message of Jonah.

Now I Remember...

2010-04-06T15:33:00.000-07:00

As time marches on I've come to realize that I don't remember things the way that I used to. I do recall being in seminary...well, mostly, when people would come to me and say, "Pastor, you have a mind like a steel trap!" As I scratch my head trying to conjure up those long ago blushing comments (was it 15 years ago, or 20?) I've come to realize that sometime over the last couple of years, someone has come along and sprung that trap when I wasn't looking.

Or maybe it was me...I just can't remember.

I write things down a lot now. I also try to pay attention to my wife a lot more too, because what she says is incredibly important. In fact if I forget something she says, my lack of "paying" attention costs significantly more...

And you know what? Good for her! But I digress.

I'm already "leaning" toward this Sunday. As I'm working on part 3 of a series of messages from the same passage in John 4, I'm attempting to recall what I preached on two Sundays ago. Even with my previous notes it's hard because last week was Easter...

And then it stuck me again as I remembered a vital truth that I need to keep near me EVERYDAY of my life, and not just one day per year. That truth is simply,

"The tomb is still empty!"

Now I remember...and it's AWESOME!

Afterglow

2010-04-05T11:39:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to take a moment to thank all of our church family at Faith for their participation in the great success of Resurrection Sunday. First, thank you for inviting your friends! As expected the crowd was great, and I heard similar reports all over our city! Further the worship time amazing, the drama incredibly appropriate and impactful, the multi-media terrific, the ushers, greeters and welcome teams outstanding, and our workers in our Holy Grounds Espresso Stand were warm and friendly as always. But most important were the lives that were changed by the power of God's presence. He is so AWESOME!

It really does all come back to the love of God for mankind! He was so awesome on Sunday!

It takes a team to put on a great event.

It takes the power of God to transform a life.

Joining the team of the Creator of the Universe changes...everything.

Easter Bunny

2010-04-02T10:32:00.001-07:00

My friend Ron Almberg Jr. posted this today on his blog. You can link to his site in the column on my right as it's one that I read and appreciate. It struck my funny bone this morning. Hope you enjoy it!

A man was driving along the highway and saw the Easter Bunny hopping across the middle of the road. He
swerved to avoid hitting the rabbit, but unfortunately the Easter Bunny jumped in front of the car and was hit.

The driver, being a sensitive man and animal lover, pulled over to the side of the road. He got out seeing what happened to the rabbit.

The Easter Bunny was dead. The driver felt so awful that he began to cry.

A woman driving down the highway saw the man crying on the side of the road and pulled over. She stepped out of her car, and asked the man what was wrong.

"I feel terrible," he explained. "I accidentally hit the Easter Bunny and killed it."

The woman told the man not to worry. She knew what to do.

She went to her car trunk and pulled out a spray can. She walked over to the limp, dead Easter Bunny, and sprayed the contents of the can onto the rabbit.

Miraculously, the Easter Bunny came to life, jumped up, waved its paw at the two people and hopped down the road!

Ten feet away the Easter Bunny stopped, turned around, waved at the two people again, hopped down the road another 10 feet, turned, waved, and hopped another 10 feet, turned and waved and repeated this again and again until it was out of sight.

The man was astonished! He couldn't figure out what substance could be in the woman's spray can.
He ran over to the woman and demanded, "What was in your spray can? What did you spray onto that rabbit?"

The woman turned the can around so that the man could read the label. It said: "Hair Spray - Restores Life to Dead Hair - Adds Permanent Wave."
(author unknown)

Thanks Ron, we all needed that!

If you're going to be in Central Oregon this weekend for Resurrection Sunday and don't regularly attend a local church, I invite you to Faith Christian Center for this special day. The music will be contemporary and meaningful; we'll have a couple special components because of Easter that you'll enjoy and I will be sharing a message titled, "Scandalous." Yes, you have to come to find out what it's all about! We begin at 10:30 AM and conclude at Noon. Hope to see you there!

Thoughts on Easter: Crossing Over the Crimson Bridge

2010-04-01T22:05:00.000-07:00

It all began at the beginning of things in the Garden of Eden…

Genesis tells us that the Garden of Eden was a wonderful and marvelous place. Adam was created first, and then Eve. They were told that they would have dominion over the garden and could eat of its fruit – all except from one tree, the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.

We know what followed. Eve was deceived by the serpent who was Satan. And then Eve came and shared the fruit of that tree with Adam. Some joke around that it was all Eve’s fault, but let it be known that Adam knew exactly what he was doing. And so sin entered the world.

What was so awful about their act of sin was that it changed everything in regard to their relationship with God. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve met with God. When they were banished from the Garden, all of that changed. If that were not terrible enough, they no longer enjoyed the closeness of their previous communion with God. Because of sin, the things that mankind does that separates us from a holy God, we need to have reconciliation. We need for the penalty to be paid. And so it was set into motion a plan to bridge man back to God.

That bridge began with a whole system of ritualistic sacrifices. Some animals without defect would be slaughtered on behalf of a family or a nation to cover their sins. For the most part, this system took place on an annual basis, most notably during the feast season of

Israel

. But it wasn’t the final, perfect solution that was needed.

The bridge, the sacrifice that God required was utterly perfect sacrifice, one completely without blemish.

That bridge is the person of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, on the cross of Calvary. It is a crimson bridge.

My friend James Fields writes,

Knowing us cost God everything, but he values us so highly that he was willing to pay for our fellowship.

Zoologists tell us that a female pelican, after laying eggs and having her offspring hatch, if there is no food for her chicks to be found over a lengthy season, will literally tear open her chest and pluck out her heart for them to eat.

That is what God did for us. He was so willing to pay for our fellowship, the intimacy that was broken in the Garden that he sent His only Son Jesus to build a bridge, to die on the cross for our sin.

Yes, it’s that simple.

Getting Ready for Easter: Push Ups

2010-03-31T17:54:00.001-07:00

The following is an illustration that was part of last year's Easter message at Faith Christian Center. It also previously made its rounds on the Internet. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did sharing it last year.

There was a certain Professor of Religion named Dr. Christensen, a studious man who taught at a small college in the western

United States

. Dr. Christensen taught the required survey course in Christianity at this particular Institution. Every student was required to take this course his freshman year, regardless of his or her major.

Although Dr. Christensen tried hard to communicate the essence of the gospel in his class, he found that most of his students looked upon the course as nothing but required drudgery. Despite his best efforts, most students refused to take Christianity seriously.

A couple years ago, Dr. Christensen had a special student named Steve. Steve was only a freshman, but was studying with the intent of going onto seminary for the ministry. Steve was popular, he was well liked, and he was an imposing physical specimen. He was now the starting center on the school football team, and was the best student in the professor's class.

One day, Dr. Christensen asked Steve to stay after class so he could talk with him. 'How many push-ups can you do?' Steve said, 'I do About 200 every night.'

'200? That's pretty good, Steve,' Dr. Christensen said. 'Do you think you could do 300?'

Steve replied, 'I don't know... I've never done 300 at a time.'

'Do you think you could?' again asked Dr. Christensen.

'Well, I can try,' said Steve.

'Can you do 300 in sets of 10? I have a class project in mind and I Need you to do about 300 push-ups in sets of ten for this to work. Can you do it? I need you to tell me you can do it,' said the professor.

Steve said, 'Well... I think I can ...yeah, I can do it.'

Dr. Christensen said, 'Good! I need you to do this on Friday. Let Me explain what I have in mind.'

Friday came and Steve got to class early and sat in the front of the room.

When class started, the professor pulled out a big box of donuts. No, these weren't the normal kinds of donuts, they were the BIG, extra fancy kind, with cream centers and frosting swirls. Everyone was pretty excited it was Friday, the last class of the year, and they were going to get an early start on the weekend with a party in Dr. Christensen's class.

Dr. Christensen went to the first girl in the first row and asked, 'Cynthia, do you want to have one of these donuts?' Cynthia said, 'Yes.' Dr. Christensen then turned to Steve and asked, 'Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Cynthia can have a donut?'

'Sure.' Steve jumped down from his desk to do a quick ten. Then Steve again sat in his desk. Dr. Christensen put a donut on Cynthia's desk.

Dr. Christensen then went to Joe, the next person, and asked, 'Joe, do you want a donut?' Joe said, 'Yes.'

Dr. Christensen asked, 'Steve would you do ten push- ups so Joe can
Have a donut?' Steve did ten push-ups! Joe got a donut. And so it went, down the First aisle, Steve did ten push-ups for every person before they got their donut.

Walking down the second aisle, Dr. Christensen came to Scott. Scott Was on the basketball team, and in as good condition as Steve. He was very popular and never lacking for female companionship. When the professor asked, 'Scott do you want a donut?' Scott's reply was, 'Well, can I do my own push-ups?' Dr. Christensen said, 'No, Steve has to do them.'

Then Scott said, 'Well, I don't want one then.'

Dr. Christensen shrugged and then turned to Steve and asked, 'Steve, would you do ten push-ups so Scott can have a donut he doesn't want?' With perfect obedience Steve started to do ten push-ups.

Scott said, 'HEY! I said I didn't want one!'

Dr. Christensen said, 'Look! This is my classroom, my class, my Desks, and these are my donuts. Just leave it on the desk if you don’t want it.' And he put a donut on Scott's desk. Now by this time, Steve had begun to slow down a little. He just stayed on the floor between sets because it took too much effort to be getting up and down. You could start to see a little perspiration coming out around his brow.

Dr. Christensen started down the third row. Now the students were beginning to get a little angry. Dr. Christensen asked Jenny, 'Jenny, do you want a donut?' Sternly, Jenny said, 'No.' Then Dr. Christensen asked Steve, 'Steve, would you do ten more push-ups so Jenny can have a donut that she doesn't want?' Steve did ten....Jenny got a donut.

By now, a growing sense of uneasiness filled the room. The students were beginning to say 'No' and there were all these uneaten donuts on the desks. Steve also had to really put forth a lot of extra effort to get these push-ups done for each donut. There began to be a small pool of sweat on the floor beneath his face, his arms and brow were beginning to get red because of the physical effort involved.

Dr. Christensen asked Robert, who was the most vocal unbeliever in the class, to watch Steve do each push up to make sure he did the full ten push-ups in a set because he couldn't bear to watch all of Steve's work for all of those uneaten donuts. He sent Robert over to where Steve was so Robert could count the set and watch Steve closely.

Dr. Christensen started down the fourth row. During his class, however, some students from other classes had wandered in and sat down on the steps along the radiators that ran down the sides of the room. When the professor realized this, he did a quick count and saw that now there were 34 students in the room. He started to worry if Steve would be able to make it.

Dr. Christensen went on to the next person and the next and the next. Near the end of that row, Steve was really having a rough time. He was taking a lot more time to complete each set. Steve asked Dr Christensen, 'Do I have to make my nose touch on each one?'

Dr. Christensen thought for a moment, 'Well, they're your push-ups. You are in charge now. You can do them any way that you want.' And Dr. Christensen went on.

A few moments later, Jason, a recent transfer student, came to the room and was about to come in when all the students yelled in one voice, 'NO! Don't come in! Stay out!'

Jason didn't know what was going on. Steve picked up his head and said, 'No, let him come.'

Professor Christensen said, 'You realize that if Jason comes in you
will have to do ten push-ups for him?'

Steve said, 'Yes, let him come in. Give him a donut.'

Dr. Christensen said, 'Okay, Steve, I'll let you get Jason's out of the way right now. Jason, do you want a donut?'

Jason, new to the room, hardly knew what was going on. 'Yes,' he said, 'give me a donut.'

'Steve, will you do ten push-ups so that Jason can have a donut?' Steve did ten push-ups very slowly and with great effort. Jason, bewildered, was handed a donut and sat down.

Dr. Christensen finished the fourth row, and then started on those visitors seated by the heaters. Steve's arms were now shaking with each push-up in a struggle to lift himself against the force of gravity. By this time sweat was profusely dropping off of his face, there was no sound except his heavy breathing; there was not a dry eye in the room.

The very last two students in the room were two young women, both cheer leaders, and very popular. Dr. Christensen went to Linda, the second to last, and asked, 'Linda do you want a donut?'

Linda said, very sadly, 'No, thank you.'

Professor Christensen quietly asked, 'Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Linda can have a donut she doesn't want?' Grunting from the effort, Steve did ten very slow push- ups for Linda.

Then Dr Christensen turned to the last girl, Susan. 'Susan, do you want a donut?'

Susan, with tears flowing down her face, began to cry. 'Dr. Christensen, why can't I help him?'

Dr. Christensen, with tears of his own, said, 'No, Steve has to do it alone. I have given him this task, and he is in charge of seeing that everyone has an opportunity for a donut whether they want it or not. When I decided to have a party this last day of class, I looked at my grade book. Steve here is the only student with a perfect grade. Everyone else has failed a test, skipped class, or offered me inferior work.

Steve told me that in football practice, when a player messes up he must do push-ups. I told Steve that none of you could come to my party unless he paid the price by doing your push - ups. He and I made a deal for your sakes.'

'Steve, would you do ten push-ups so Susan can have a donut?' As Steve very slowly finished his last push-up, with the understanding that he had accomplished all that was required of him, having done 350 push- ups, his arms buckled beneath him and he fell to the floor.

Dr. Christensen turned to the room and said. 'And so it was, that our Savior, Jesus Christ, on the cross, pled to the Father, 'Into Thy hands I commend My spirit.' With the understanding that He had done everything that was required of Him, He yielded up His life. And like some of those in this room, many of us leave the gift on the desk, uneaten.'

Two students helped Steve up off the floor and to a seat, physically exhausted, but wearing a thin smile.

'Well done, good and faithful servant,' said the professor, adding 'Not all sermons are preached in words.'

Turning to his class, the professor said, 'My wish is that you might understand and fully comprehend all the riches of grace and mercy that have been given to you through the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He spared not His only Begotten Son, but gave Him up for us all, for the whole Church, now and forever. Whether or not we choose to accept His gift to us, the price has been paid.' 'Wouldn't you be foolish and ungrateful to leave it lying on the desk?'

Rules for Chocolate Bunnies

2010-03-30T13:26:00.000-07:00

It's Holy Week leading up to Easter. We have many different traditions within our culture during this season, one of which is the greatly admired and coveted...chocolate Easter bunny. The following is a tongue-in-cheek list of rules for properly consuming said critters from my friends at Preaching Magazine who send me such gems. Laughter is a marvelous thing and I hope you take advantage of its healing values as you read this. Enjoy!

In case someone buys you one of those chocolate bunnies this year, remember these important rules:

• If you get melted chocolate all over your hands, you're eating it too slowly.

• Diet Tip: Eat some chocolate before each meal. It'll take the edge off your appetite and you'll eat less.

• A nice chocolate bunny can provide your total daily intake of calories in one place.

• If you can't eat all your chocolate bunny, it will keep in the freezer; but if you can't eat all your chocolate bunny, what's wrong with you?

• If calories are an issue, store your chocolate bunny on top of the fridge. Calories are afraid of heights, and they will jump out of the chocolate to protect themselves.

• Money talks. Chocolate sings.

• Chocolate has many preservatives. Preservatives make you look younger.

• Why is there no such organization as Chocoholics Anonymous? Because no one wants to quit.

• Put "eat chocolate bunny" at the top of your list of things to do today. That way, at least you'll get one thing done.

• Chocolate is a health food. Chocolate is derived from cacao beans. Beans are vegetables, aren't they? Sugar is derived either from sugar beets or cane, both vegetables. Of course, milk is dairy. So eat more chocolate bunny to meet the dietary requirements for your daily vegetable and dairy intake.

Faithful

2010-03-29T11:02:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

For those who faithfully follow my blog, you've noticed that I've been notably "unfaithful" to writing during the month of March. I've missed this time writing here, but have been using it for other areas of priority during this season.

For the upcoming month I have a special focus for our Faith Journey Adventure. At Faith on April 25th we will be having a very special day. It is a "Matthew 11:5 Day." More information will be forthcoming.

It's Holy Week and we're looking forward to a big weekend at Faith! The title of this weekend's message is, "Scandalous!" The focus is the scandal of the cross and how the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ changes everything...including the scandalous nature of our sin that separates us from a holy God.

Join together with me during April to believe God for the amazing!

Ownership

2010-03-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you just need to celebrate a win.

Yesterday at Faith was all that and so much more. The singing portion of our worship service was amazing. The response to the message was excellent. And the "Mission's Munch" that followed was outstanding. Love days like that at Faith.

Was reading the first chapter of a biography on George Muller this morning. Muller was a fellow who prayed a lot and saw miracles take place in the ministries he was involved in, most notably the orphanages that he ran in Great Britain. What amazed me was in his younger days he essentially had what we would call a "seared conscience." Basically it means that it didn't matter to him what he was involved devient behavior he was involved in, he was going to do it and didn't care if there were consequences. A master liar, he was also a thief and a gambler. I read with astonishment that as a 14 year old and his mother dying on evening, he was in the streets drunk out of his brain. Such was his life. He manipulated more than a few people in authority in his life, including his father and university director. His father, hoping to get him back on track, sent him to school to be a minister. Basically we're talking about an occupation instead of a calling. And then a dramatic transformation.

Talk about the ultimate "win."

Anything is possible...with God. I'm really looking forward to reading about what happened through Muller's life decades before the modern Pentecostal movement. The dramatic miracles of provision that occurred through his ministry life were so profound that they defy reason.

That's why their called "miracles."

Decades before the Pentecostal movement began, the largest grouping of people in history who actively pursued miracles, Muller had already lived it. In many ways he became a trailblazer in the Christian culture that he was living in. It's all because the transformation that took place was in His heart and not just in his head. It's a reminder to all of us that we can train for just about anything under the sun, but until we own it in our heart, it's just mere intellectual assent.

Love that thought, "Owning it." But I guess that's really not an accurate understanding of Christianity. We don't "own" God; He owns us.

Flowers are Optional

2010-02-25T16:38:00.000-08:00

Was out looking at used cars last night. Thought I was on my way to buy one when the dealership called back and said it was in the shop. They made the mistake of having me talk to a salesperson who said that the "check engine" light kept coming on.

Hummmm...

Looking for a cheap car (under $1500) with low miles (preferably under 100k). I'd also like for all the "parts" to work. And yes, this isn't some kind of way out request because those vehicles are out there - because I've bought them before.

I mentioned a few days ago that we sold our son's truck. That's part of the reason why we need another car right away, for him to drive until he gets another one, for his brother and sister to drive (because if they dent it, it's not a big deal), and for me to drive because my truck is for sale ('04 Dodge Ram 1500 with a Hemi & 47k - call me!!). We're selling it to pay off our car and get out of the debt we incurred from three years ago when my wife had a catastrophic illness. I'm going to need a dependable but cheap set of wheels to get around in. It may turn out to be of the two wheeled, non-motorized variety, but that won't hurt me either.

Our oldest was looking at some pretty neat vehicles last night on Craigslist, the national bartering site. We've sold a bunch of things there and bought a bunch of things there. The items he would like to have are more expensive than he can afford. But it's a good lesson. He needs to make good decisions right now, especially with college on the horizon. He's stuck with "cool and expensive" vs "cheap and dependable." Knowing him he'll likely end up somewhere between the two. When he gets older like the rest of us? The latter please.

He and his younger brother are at baseball practice as I write. It's also freezing cold outside right now. But it's the price you pay when you want to accomplish something. What I've noticed along the way is that the best that life has to offer us are very expensive. But it's not money I'm talking about. No, and you probably know where I'm headed with this. The best in life are the people we love and the sacrifice we make of our whole beings to demonstrate that love.

Flowers are optional.

Being "present" in person, speech, nurture or deed isn't optional.

Jesus demonstrated the breadth of His love for mankind when He spread His arms open wide on a cross 2,000 years ago, a clear sacrifice of His whole being...

Everything

2010-02-24T20:56:00.000-08:00

Was watching Olympic hockey tonight, listening to the expert commentators concerning the Canada-Russia game. These two teams are supposed to be the best in the world, competing for the gold medal.

At least that was what was supposed to happen.

Both teams lost in pool play and were in a loser out game in the toughest draw in the quarterfinals. Worse yet, according to the words of one of the experts, Russia didn't show up. The guy actually said it was a, "bowzer" performance. I think the fellow was Canadian who said that; the word he used making sense in about any language. It was noted by one of his colleagues that all of Russia probably felt the same way.

Final score, Canada 7, Russia 3.

As I understand it, it wasn't even that close.

I was looking ahead to Easter both yesterday and today, thinking about what direction we were headed for the message that day. One thing is for certain, Jesus showed up that day 2,000 years ago. He went through the agony that led to the cross. From reading about the torture He went through and recent Hollywood renditions, the cross itself may have been an anti-climatic relief. Yes, it was ALL horrible, Christ paying a debt that He did not owe. He not only showed up but gave of Himself everything.

We had one of the heads of the Burundian Pentecostal Church with us a few weeks ago. In his remarks he reminded us of how blessed we are, even in the midst of a recession. And yet we sometimes don't even show up. We whine, moan and complain about our lives. We think of how expensive gas is and how much it is going to cost for our espresso on the way into work.

Nope, didn't see one espresso kiosk in Burundi.

Friends, I'm pleased to announce that our cup is not half empty but rather, abundantly overflowing in so many ways! Be encouraged! While finances and issues of ministry have been difficult as of late, that's not where my vision is. Instead of seeing life's struggles, may we see the blessings of heaven everyday and give our whole selves to being grateful in everything.

We not only have the privilege of "showing up," but the wonderful opportunity of giving everything...

Guythingish vs Godthingish

2010-02-23T22:00:00.000-08:00

It was another one of those melancholy days for guys. We sold my son's pickup truck and I was an accomplice. Yes, I'm feeling a bit of shame in the midst of it all. Tami and I drove the thing an hour and a half to Detroit, Oregon where we exchanged the truck for cash.

Such a sad day.

When a guy buys a boat, it's the happiest day of his life. When he sells his boat, it's the second happiest. But when he sells his truck, it's like the dog has died. Guys and their trucks have a strange, symbiotic relationship. Somehow we get it between our ears that we are connected. That's why we put big tires with aggressive treads on them to demonstrate that somehow we are so much more than we really are. I have to admit that I didn't feel as bad this time as the last truck I sold last year. It was a beautiful 68 Chevy truck. A hot rodder bought it for a build - something I would never have done on my own. Selling that truck to that guy was bittersweet. Okay, I was bitter; she said I couldn't keep it, and she was right - I had no business doing so. It wasn't best for the family. But the truck went to a better place - heaven on earth for pickups. That truck won the lottery and because fellows attach personality and meaning to such inaimate objects, that Chevy was going to a better place without me. Just another proof that life isn't always fair.

Driving over I called my wife who was following me in our other car. I noted how nicely our son's truck drove and wondered out loud whether or not getting rid of it would be the best thing. What I didn't say was that I was thinking that maybe we should get rid of her car instead. But then again, that would be too "guythingish..."

I remember the beer commercials from a few years ago, where a bunch of older actors and athletes would sit around with their alcohol and make up "man laws." It's the equivalent of beating our chests and putting on a front in order, well, to either disguise or demonstrate that we are something more than we really are.

Isn't that like life?

This reality demonstrates the need for a Savior. We do, buy, participate and function in all kinds of ways and situations in order to bring meaning. But in the end, nothing satisfies. Lot's of what we do masks the insecurity and pain that many of us feel about whatever has happened in our past. Instead, when we come to Christ we have the privilege and opportunity to actually return to the Creator and base our self-esteem on the basis of our original design. Guythingish? Naw, "Godthingish."

Like Jesus

2010-02-22T13:26:00.001-08:00

Sunday was another great day at Faith. Once again we were blessed to see transformations take place as six came into relationship with Christ. It never gets old and we rejoice with all of heaven with these who have made this new commitment!

I spoke on the subject of ‘knowing the person of Christ’ from the perspective of our annual theme, “Expectancy.” We are adopted into the family of God and recognize that there are expectations to that relationship with run both ways. Too often we can get caught up in only being one-sided in this relationship with heaven – of what God can do for me. Yes, there are expectations of heaven of our lives, among which I shared about two basic areas yesterday – time spent with God and the giving of our time, talent and treasure (tithes & offerings) to God.

One of my friends and attenders at Faith, Todd Miller wrote me this morning about his devotions and some thoughts he had as it related to yesterday’s message. I share it here by permission:

Mike,

My Scripture reading this morning just fit in so well with Sunday, that I thought I would pass it on.

I have been using "The Voice of the Lord" a messianic Jewish daily devotional off and on for the last several years. It is enlightening to get a Jewish perspective on life's daily walk. There is the daily scripture, along with one of several rabbi believer's [Rabbi’s who are Christian] perspective on that Scripture.

This morning was 2 Corinthians 13:5 - "Don't you realize that Yeshua the Messiah is in you?" I thought immediately of Sunday, and that not only is God next to us through whatever we go through, he is "IN" us if we let him. The commentary for this was this rabbi was visiting a synagogue that he hadn't been to in 20 years. After the service, an old man came up to him saying that he remembered his grandfather. The old guy started to say "you look more like" and he thought he was going to say his grandfather (a rabbi) because of his beard, but the old man finished with "Jesus Christ than any man I've ever seen."

How often do we forget that not only is God with us, but we are to show Christ to all those around us.

Talk to you later,

Todd.

Great word and a great work that’s continuing to take place through Todd’s life, AND so many others at Faith...

Pass & Gasp

2010-02-17T19:13:00.000-08:00

Our youngest turned 15 today...and promptly prodded his mother to take him to get his driving permit.

He passed.

I arrived home from work when he promptly decided it was time to open his presents.

He gasped.

Yes, his brother bought him roasted crickets and meal worms for his birthday! The fact that they came in "custom" flavors of "sour cream and onion" and "cheddar cheese" respectively only enhanced the joy of the fellows in the house.

His mother and sister gasped...and the boys and I loved every minute of it!

We went out to the car to go to Chinese food - Kyle's choice. With the car unlocked, Kyle slipped into the driver's seat.

WE ALL GASPED.

We love the boy, but we were thinking it would be better to actually arrive at the restaurant without the aid of emotional duress, distress and in a state of complete dishevelment. Or a tow truck. With its flashing lights on. He sat in the back.

I think he was as relieved as the rest of us.

All three of our kids are now in "some state" of being able to operate a motor vehicle. I would like to joke that the two youngest would only have skill to drive something that runs on batteries, but since they make those things full-size now, I'll refrain from the insult. All of this reminds us that pretty soon we'll have three in college. I'm just glad there is only one daughter meaning there will only be one wedding to foot the bill for.

I know, she'll make us gasp...

As we move through the seasons of life with our family and eventually into an empty nest, we find the meaning that Christ brings all the sweeter. Even in the midst of hard times that effects nearly all of us, life is good because God is good. 'Been to several third world countries and have seen happiness that was completely void of materialism. Saw those faces while standing in church. These folks were so overwhelmed by heavenly joy that they continued to smile, even while I was preaching. Knowing Jesus does that to a person...

But then again, there was a translator who may have been preaching a much better message than I...

I pray that for our kids as well...the joy part. They've been hearing their dad preach for too many years. Probably thought I was speaking a foreign language a bunch to the time too.

Began this blog with a "pass" that moved into several "gasps." When this life is done we all want something more. The kids are turning out okay, so a "pass" instead of a "gasp" may be in order. However the hope and joy for each of us are a few other words that we want to hear...

'Was thinking about, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Myriad of Colors

2010-02-16T20:08:00.000-08:00

As part of my devotions I've been reading a series of short biographies of great preachers and teachers of the previous two centuries. Today's reading was about two fellows who lived the end of the 1800's and into the first half of the 1900's. Both fellows made similar contributions, founding Bible colleges and seminaries along with writing massive volumes on the interpretation of Scripture.

And yet famously, they couldn't have been more dissimilar.

Theologically they were miles apart, and yet both men would have been considered "conservative." How they went about their ministries was also completely different.

It reminds me that God can use anyone, that He has created each of us for a purpose. Embracing our uniqueness in Christ and fulfilling what He has called you and I to do is like a stained glass window with it's myraid of colors. You might be a rectangular piece that is blue in color; I may be a triangle of burnt orange. And yet each piece of glass fits together to make something quite beautiful. That's a portrait of the body of Christ, of which He is the artist. All the pieces different; and yet in the picture that our Lord creates He moves us together to make something quite awesome and breathtaking.

Understanding His awesome love for us, the view of all those pieces fitting together must bring Him laughter...

Includes the Wallet Too

2010-02-15T18:42:00.000-08:00

Shared on tithing yesterday at Faith.

Many comments and phone calls about that message, and it's only Monday evening. I was even stopped in front of my house today by someone who had something to say about it.

I was grateful that it was all positive.

I'm looking forward to seeing many of our people grow in this area of their walk with Jesus Christ. I'm also looking forward with our theme of "Expectancy" this year for what God will do in our midst because the people of Faith are found faithful and obedient to Him in every area. When we give our lives over to Christ, it includes the wallet too...

Wrasslin'

2010-02-11T21:35:00.000-08:00

I've been enjoying high school wrestling lately.

A family in our church have two sons, both of whom wrestle for the same high school my kids go to. The first time I went it was to be with the family. Now I've been three times and have become addicted to the intensity of these matches of strength and cunning. I've seen aggressive matches and those where no one seems to want to do anything, conserving energy to maintain the status quo until the end of the match. I've also seen others who come to the end of a match, too far behind to catch up and then start taking some risks because the match is just about over. They win or lose, giving everything they have.

It really is a bit of a rush...

I've also been to a few wrasslin' matches as well. One night I saw Hulk Hogan defeat Rick "The Nature Boy" Flair. I've also seen Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka live, before he was the "fly" guy (in Seattle he was the "Tongen Warrior"). I've even seen the best tag team ever, the "Road Warriors." But I think that best professional wrasslin' match I've ever witnessed was in Seattle many years ago. It was the local favorite, Dutch Savage against former world champion, Gene Kiniski. Savage was a bit beyond his prime, meaning he had that endearing image among his fans. He was a good guy all the way around. As far as being a bad guy (that's how the sport works, good vs evil), Kiniski was the quintessential meanie. By this time he was loooong past his prime and was relegated to traveling to all the regional markets and plying his trade in a series of one-night stands so that everyone could see the local favorite beat a former world champ.

I'll never forget that bout.

They went around and 'round, with the momentum teetering back and forth. Finally after about an hour, Savage had Kiniski laid out in the middle of the mat (feigning unconsciousness) while our hero went to the corner ropes, climbed to the top, promptly slipped, fell, and severely injured himself.

Anymore detail on the injury would be TMI.

And then the truth of the sport of wrasslin' revealed itself to a junior high boy who was having the time of his life (that would be me). Kiniski lay on the mat for about 20 minutes, waiting to be finished off in the clearly prearranged before the bout manner that had been scripted. The referee, also in on the fix didn't know what to do. He couldn't count Savage out, because he was supposed to win. The problem was Savage was on the floor, outside the ring, writhing in pain.

He wasn't getting up without aid anytime in the near month.

Finally, after that 20 minutes that seemed like an eternity, Kiniski sheepishly peeked out of his left eye to see what was going on and then rolled over and got up. The referee had no choice but to declare the imported meanie the winner.

You know what? Wrasslin' is entertainment because it is scripted. High school wrestling is clearly life "unscripted." I think that I would like to have my life be scripted, thank you very much. That way I would have more control; but that's not the way things work. I know that Jesus knows what's on the horizon for me because He is omniscient, which means He "knows everything." But today and tomorrow is clearly unscripted. That's why I can sit on the edge of a bleacher on a Thursday night and cheer for some boys whom I've never met before because what they are doing is...real.

This life for us in our mind's eye is unscripted. We'd better just "go for it" because we're not promised tomorrow. The best part? We know one very important part of the script that Jesus shares with all who call on His Name...

We win in the end.

Possibilities

2010-02-10T20:18:00.000-08:00

We're in the midst of an all-church emphasis at Faith on "Life's Healing Choices" by John Baker. Baker is the key leader at Saddleback Church in Orange, California for Celebrate Recovery, the popular and successful Christian treatment program for overcoming life's "hurts, hang-ups and habits." It's also the church where popular author and pastor Rick Warren works. Baker's book is basically "CR light."

I've been thinking about a succinct way to describe the key Biblical principle behind Baker's book and CR. I've come to the conclusion that it's all about who's in control of our lives, Jesus or me, myself and I. The point is quickly taken. The more it's all about me, the more self-centered and out of balance I become. The more it's all about Jesus? The more possibilities to lead a life I was uniquely created for.

What do those possibilities look like? May we enjoy the journey in continually finding out...