Living Water

Christmas is just a few days away, and I am pondering and reflecting upon the coming of the Messiah and what it means in my life. As I reflected upon the difference Jesus has made in my life my thoughts turned to the very first miracle of Jesus, turning water into wine, and the fact that Jesus is the Living Water. Water is vital for life ...

The statistics are staggering.

• 1 Billion very important people lack access to clean water. (Although we don't know them personally, are they really less valuable than we are?) They drink from polluted lakes and streams where animal waste, human waste, and parasites infect the water.

• Women and children walk 2 hours each way to fetch water (hauling dirty water back to their families.) They have no time or energy left for education or small business, and many of them die.

• Preventable water related diseases kill one child every 15 seconds. That's 10,000 every day (and that's just the children). Imagine if that many precious ones were dying in the U.S.

My friend, Dr. Jerry Wiles is President of Living Water International and so I went to their website www.water.cc to check out the opportunity to give water in the name of Jesus. While perusing the website I came across a video by Chris Seay and was only wishing I had seen it sooner. (http://www.water.cc/video.html). If you're looking for a gift idea that could quench both the physical and spiritual thirst of a life, then join me and give a gift to Living Water International in the name of a friend or relative.

Have a wonderful Christ filled Christmas and I hope to see you Sunday morning for worship and then Sunday evening for our Candlelight in the Park Christmas Eve service at 7 p.m.

And the Survey Says ...

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas .... cold. Emily called me this morning from OBU and said there is almost a foot of snow and no classes! As I am sitting here enjoying the fire I am S.O.A.P.ing up this morning in Psalm 42, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, the living God. When can I go and meet with God?" If you haven't had some time with God today, take a minute to quench the thirsting of your soul with a drink from the word of God. As I was reading through Psalm 42 I realized how important songs are to expressing the deepest longings of our hearts and relationships.

Songs reflect the cry of our hearts, the condition of our soul and even the calling of our lives. I love a good song that is birthed out of life's raw realities. Songs sung with passion and purpose are what fill the airwaves during the Christmas season. Of course there is your typical fair of secular favorites like White Christmas and Frosty the Snowman, but what really moves me deeply are the sacred songs that tell the story of the longing of a people for a savior and king; songs of the nativity and its cast of unsuspecting bystanders.

This Sunday I am beginning a new series of messages called Christmas Songs, looking at several songs that reflect the season as sung through the biblical voices of Mary, Zachariah, Shepherds and Angels. I'm taking kind of an informal survey ...

What is your favorite Christmas song? Hit reply and let me know. I will share the results of my informal survey on Sunday.

It's Cold in Katy

It's 3:44 p.m. cloudy and well I've been wanting some cold weather and it is here -

37°F
Feels Like
26°F

so you know what that means - start the fire!

Day 30 - Experiment Completed

This is the final day of my 30 days of thanksgiving experiment. Over these last 30 days I have thought daily about family, friends, faith, life, breath, creation and more ... But I want to end my 30 days of thanksgiving with a refection and a thank you to my Lord.

To know that my existence is beyond mere matter, that the true substance of my life is in the realm of the unseen, gives meaning to the mystery and to the dance of my sacred journey. To rise each morning with a deep breath filling my lungs, ready to embrace whatever comes my way with enthusiasm, can only be if my companion on the sacred journey is my Lord, my Savior, my Leader, my Friend, my King, my God. Everyday is filled with His strength in my struggles, His forgiveness for my faults, His grace for my growth and His wisdom for my wounds. Moses pronounced the cry of my heart ... if your presence doesn't go us, then don't send us from here. My heart is overwhelmed with the reality that in Christ's coming he came to stay ... in me! To journey forever, never leaving nor forsaking me on this sacred journey. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. 1 Chronicles 16:34 (NIV)

Day 29 - Down but not Out!

It's day 29 of our thanksgiving experiment. This last week has been filled with highs and lows. Thanksgiving was awesome as I spent time with family, friends and feasting. I have gained about 5lbs and am feeling a bit sluggish. On top of all that, this last month has been long and frustrating as well. I have been doing a lot of reading, writing and research on China to finish up a graduate seminar I took this past spring in China.

I was S.O.A.P.ing up this morning in Psalm 51. I was reminded that many times life got tough for David and yet he found in God all that he needed to come back. When life get's you down it is not a good thing but right now I feel like Rocky ... I'm coming back! Did you hear that Rocky VI hits theaters on December 22. I'm a Rocky a fan! Here's a guy that is the perpetual underdog. He struggles whether in success or failure, he's always poised for a comeback. Just when you think he's down, life has got him against the ropes, all of a sudden there is a spark and POW! the crowd is on their feet, they sense what is about to happen.

Listen, "No matter what, you can overcome your past ... With help, if you look to God, you can overcome your past and be reborn." No those aren't the words of scripture or a preacher, that's Sylvester Stallone talking in an interview about his life. Stallone made Rocky a symbol of redemption and I guess that's why I love Rocky films. I am reminded that we're never to far down for God to reach us with his grace and love and pick us up. On this day I am filled with joy and thanks for the reality of my redemption in Christ. He has picked me up and infused me with life, meaning, and purpose ... I can't wait to see what he is going to do tomorrow!

Day 22 - A Day of Death

This is day 22 of our thanksgiving experiment. I'll be brief ... on this day I am thankful for two men whose lives have impacted the world of politics and the world of religious apologetics. It is an interesting coincidence that today is the day that both John F. Kennedy and C.S. Lewis died ... one in Dallas the other in Oxford and both in 1963. John F. Kennedy will be remembered for his visionary leadership during tensions both domestic and foreign, including Cuba, civil rights and lunar exploration. C.S. Lewis will be remembered for his probing mind, Christian apologetics and prolific writing. Both of these men have impacted our lives and in this season of Thanksgiving I am thankful for those who have not lived nor labored nor labored in vain. May all who come behind us find us as faithful.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Day 21 - Power Up!

This is day 21 of our thanksgiving experiment. The last few days have been about routines being set aside for the call of the season and the special opportunities to be with friends and family. School got out on Friday and all of sudden the pace of life changes, every one's thoughts start turning toward family, Thanksgiving and even Christmas shopping the day after Thanksgiving. It is so hard to stave off the impulse to move past the Thanksgiving season, abandon my experiment and get right to the Christmas festivities, but here I am day 21 and I am pressing in on the things that I am thankful for. I'm discovering that 30 days is definitely too short.

This past Sunday around 75 men and women gathered for The Fellowship's quarterly Leadership Lunch where we inspire and inform leaders on the journey of stewarding their influence for the Kingdom. We enjoyed a Thanksgiving feast and a talk about our "Energy schedules". Basically asking two questions, "What fills your energy tank? and What drains your energy tank? In this season when the energy faucet seems to be turned on full I have to make sure that I am spending time filling my tank or it will quickly become empty. So what gives me energy?

• Serving The Fellowship as Lead Pastor
  
• Time alone to reflect on life
  
• A great book, movie, or even a song
• A ride in the Jeep with the top down and doors off
  
• Talking about God's love with others
• But the number one thing that fills my tank - my family!
  

This weekend I was reminded how much I love my children and how proud I am of them. Have I told you how much I love my kids? Wesley is my man! We drove around on Saturday with the Jeep doors off, listening to music, laughing (I'm Batman) and just being guys; and listening to him play the guitar causes me to beam with pride. Just recently he played in a guitar recital and well, he was awesome.

Allison came home from a theater convention in Galveston this past weekend where she was honored with a scholarship and quit a few university opportunities. She is preparing for the future and we are all praying as she seeks God's will. She is such a talented actress and more than that she desires to see God work in her life. This past summer she really began to see how God could use theater to communicate theology. All of a sudden the medium of the stage had a purpose in the message of the cross.

Tonight we are picking up Emily from the airport as she comes home from OBU (Oklahoma Baptist University). Emily is my oldest, my baby and she is growing up so fast, she's 20 now! She is a History and German major, loves to lead worship and play football. I have always been the man in her life and have told her that if there was ever going to be another man in her life then he would have to get through me first and yes, that is boy standing next to her, his name is Andy Farmer from Alabama. He flies here on Friday for some Edmonson family time. One thing I know about this young man is he has a heart for God and good taste! :-)

Well, thanks for letting me ramble on .... bragging! Over the next several days I am going to devote myself to filling my energy tank with family time, as I know you are, and every day I will continue to offer thanks to God for all his blessings. Have a Christ filled Thanksgiving!

Day 17 - A Letter From God

It's day 17 of our Thanksgiving experiment. It's Friday, it's cold and believe it or not I am sitting in front of a roaring fire courtesy of fake logs and natural gas. I'm S.O.A.P.ing up in Romans 12, probably one the most challenging chapters of all scripture. It is a passage that sums up the life of a Christ follower, from my relationship to God, to others, and to the world, to the transformation of my mind, and living with an external focus. Every year during this season of Thanksgiving I am reminded that this life is one that has been changed with an end in mind. It is so easy to make life, including my spiritual journey, all about me.

This morning Gail and I took a couple of minutes to talk about Christmas lists and budgets. In the process we both recognize that the greatest blessings come from giving to those who can not give back or to reach out and touch those that are often among the forgotten. It's not just about money or gifts, but about time and presence. Then as I am pondering all this I got an email for Jim Herrington, mentor and friend ... it was the exclamation on my time with God this morning!

Dear Children,

It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. Maybe you've forgotten that I wasn't actually born during this time of the year and that it was some of you're predecessors who decided to celebrate My birthday on what was actually a time of pagan festival; although, I do appreciate being remembered anytime. How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth just, GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER. Now, having said that let Me go on.

If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.

Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can and may remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching that explains who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks are. If you have forgot that one, look at John 15:1-8.

If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it.

• Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time.
  
  
• Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.
  
  
• Instead of writing George complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up. It will be nice hearing from you again.
  
  
• Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.
  
  
• Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.
  
  
• Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile it could make the difference. Also, you might consider supporting the local Hot-Line: they talk with people like that every day.
  
  
• Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their families.
  
  
• If you really want to make a difference, take some time to encourage and support a missionary, especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name. You may already know someone like that.
  
  
• Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them (and I suspect you don't) buy some food and a few gifts and ask a local charity to help you identify a family. Then, don't just take the gifts and food. Make a commitment to develop a friendship with this family during the coming year.
  
  
• Finally if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine.

P.S. Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those you love and, remember, I LOVE YOU.

Day 16 - Madonna's Child

This is day 16 day of our Thanksgiving experiment. Last month Madonna was in the news as there was an uproar about her adoption of a 1 year old Malawian boy named Daniel. Daniel's father is a poor farmer who could not care for him after the death of his mother so he put him in an orphanage with 500 other children. Whether you agree with celebrities like Madonna, Mia Farrow, Ewan McGregor, and Angelina Jolie fast tracking the adoption process, there is a great need.

Then a couple of days ago I got an email from Kathy Jorgensen, a friend and member here at The Fellowship. She was inviting me to be a part of something special this month, something I didn't even know about ... National Adoption Awareness month, here's a Link check it out. Mark and Kathy have a special place in their hearts for this issue, their two children are adopted. They are especially aware of the plight of the fatherless and the motherless and in light of scriptural teaching on the matter ... well, it's on my spiritual radar screen as well. Check out Voice of the Orphans Link for the latest statistics. It's hard to imagine that over 150 million children world wide have no parents, that's staggering and painful.

I was S.O.A.P.ing up this morning in the book of James. In James 1:27 it reads, "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James reminds us that our faith is demonstrated by our care for the least of these. In the Old Testament it was the practice of God's people to leave food, shelter and provision for the fatherless, the widow and the stranger.

The plight of the orphan, this painful reality in our world, reminds me of the spiritual reality that at some time in our lives we are all orphans spiritually. Then we come to know Christ and we are adopted into his family. (see Ephesians 1:4-6) We have the opportunity to offer unconditional love to those in need, who have no family and hopefully open the door for them to discover their eternal family. I am so thankful that God knows each child and he longs for each one of them have a family, if not in this life, then in the life to come, knowing him as their heavenly father for all eternity.

Day 14 - Cut from the Same Cloth

This is day 14 of our thanksgiving experiment. Unity is a powerful force in our lives. Look around and you will see unity in creation, unity in construction, unity in the church ... yes I said the church. Several weeks ago I received an email from Steve Nordlander, a friend and member here at The Fellowship. Steve wanted to share with me about a dream he had. As I read it, I thought what a great picture of unity. I asked him if I could share it here in The Sacred Journey. His dream went like this, "How to share God's desire for Unity and Surrender: Take one large white cloth sheet and cut it in half, then cut that half in half, and so on and so on. When you have cut the sheet into a multiple of small squares, they are all a part of one and are unified in their material and message. As we know, a white flag, sheet, or other cloth is the universal sign for surrender. The idea of the small square patches of white cloth is to provide a daily and constant reminder to all who carry, or possess it (in their pocket, purse, on the refrigerator) as a humble inspiration of surrender and obedience to God."

In the church we too often focus on our differences, but guys like Steve are thinking, praying and dreaming about unity. The truth is that Jesus thought, dreamt and prayed for our unity. I was S.O.A.P.ing up in John 17 where Jesus prays for his disciples. "... I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one ..." Unity is part of God's design and when we live in unity it is a powerful testimony to God's creative order and purpose for all his creation. Unity is defined as the state of being one, or something whole or complete formed by combining or joining separate things or entities. Taking a white sheet and cutting it up to represent unity seems counter intuitive but yet it demonstrates and illustrates the nature of being "cut from the cloth". We are all different yet we are the same. David reminds us in Psalms 133:1 "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!" The more life I experience, the more I realize that life is too short to let divisions hinder me, unity is key to living, loving and longing for all that God has for our world. I am so thankful that Jesus prayed that prayer and that today so many like Steve are continuing to pray that prayer ... that God might be glorified in the unity of the body of Christ ... his church.

Day 13 - Global God

This is day 12 and 13 of our thanksgiving experiment. Just a reminder, the goal is to spend 30 days just thinking of all that we are thankful for and then see how it better prepares our hearts for the Christmas season. I am up in Dallas this morning, Frisco to be exact. I am meeting with several men and women who have the same heart as The Fellowship does about making a global impact. Some of them joined us on our trip to Banda Aceh, some of them are new to Bridges of Hope and are interested in what God is up to.

Yesterday was an awesome Sunday of worship, teaching, Pastor Garth Oliver did a excellent job of contextualizing Paul's missionary journey's, his relationships and conflicts, and fellowship! I did a Newcomer lunch where about 20 men and women heard The Fellowship story and were invited to be a part of the journey we are all on. I then met with a small group of doctors and nurses in our church who will be going to Banda Aceh early this next year (if you are interested, let me know), and then off to Dallas. I'm staying with a great friend and someone many of you know, Ross Patterson. Ross has been instrumental in helping us set up Bridges of Hope and is a catalyst for churches wanting to have a global impact.

This morning I am S.O.A.P.ing up on Matthew 28:19-20 where Jesus reminds us, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Discipleship starts long before someone becomes a Christian. It begins with questions, it continues looking for answers and it involves men and women who follow Christ as living and loving examples of the Way.

let your light shine and point the world to its savior!

Day 11 - Veterans Day ... Thank you!

This is day 11 of our thanksgiving experiment. Yesterday morning I had the privilege of giving the invocation at a Veteran's Day ceremony. Mattress Mac spoke and a Marine veteran's color guard raised the flag. It was a moving experience. One of my friends and member of The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch, Andy Valadez, is a former Marine and helped plan and publicize this event, great job Andy. My father served in the military for 25 years and had one tour in Vietnam. Thanks Dad! I served in the 82nd Airborne for 3 years long before any trouble in the Middle East. But one thing is sure, I am thankful for the men and women who in our military and the sacrifice that has been made on my behalf. No one likes war, but even in scripture war is a part of life and is even considered a given. In my S.O.A.P. this morning, I was reminded that Christ is coming again, but until he does, there will be wars and rumors of wars. Mark 13:7-8 says, "When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains."

Whether you agree or don't agree with the war or the way it is being waged, the men and women who proudly serve and have served our country deserve our prayers and our gratitude! On this Veterans day I am praying for them and thanking my Lord for their sacrifice. Jesus Christ paid the ultimate price to set me spiritually and eternally free, many a solider has paid the ultimate price to keep our nation free. Thank you Jesus and thank you Veterans!

Day 10 - Dr. Jesus, I presume?

This is day 10 of our Thanksgiving experiment. On this day, November 10, 1871, following seven months of searching, foreign correspondent to the "New York Herald" Henry M. Stanley succeeded at last in locating Scottish missionary David Livingstone in Ujiji, Central Africa. Dr. Livingstone had disappeared 2 years earlier and was presumed to be dead. We all know those now famous first words uttered by Stanley, "Dr. Livingston, I presume?"

The next words spoken by Stanley and Livingston are not as familiar,"I thank God, Doctor, I have been permitted to see you." He answered, "I feel thankful that I am here to welcome you." Can you imagine going on a journey in search of someone that you have never seen before ... only heard of? Yet, there is something that compells you to search until you find it. How would you respond if at the end of your journey you found what you were looking for?

Sometimes we feel like we're on a journey through the deepest jungles of Africa, looking, longing to find God. Scripture tells us from Deuteronomy to Acts, if you seek God you will find him. Here are some verses on seeking and finding that I S.O.A.P.ed up on this morning:

• Deuteronomy 4:29 (NIV) But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you look for him with all your heart and with all your soul.
  
  
• Proverbs 8:17 (NIV) I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.
  
  
• Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV) You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
  
  
• Luke 11:9 (NIV) "So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
  
  
• Acts 17:27 (NIV) God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us.

I am so thankful to God that when I went searching for the creator of life, the lover of my soul, the redeemer of mankind, I found him. Now Jesus and I travel together on this journey. I have the privilege of introducing him to others who have been seeking him. I also find that he goes before me and I find him in places I didn't expect ... in the faces of children, conversations over coffee with a friend, the cry for justice from the hurting and marginalized, and in the everyday mundane moments, I have found him ... Dr. Jesus, I presume?

Day 9 - Embracing the Past

This is day 9 of our Thanksgiving experiment. I was S.O.A.P.ing up this morning in 1 Timothy 1:12-17 and was reminded of God's grace and love that abounds to all sinners as Paul reminds Timothy of his own journey

"I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners--of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen."

Last night I gathered with over 50 men with whom I am sharing a journey through the course A Quest for Authentic Manhood. The theme of the evening was "Looking Back", being willing to know where you've come from and how it has contributed to who you are today. Looking back is not always easy for me, memories of painful moments, an alcoholic absentee father, dead mother, step mother, highly dysfunctional blended family, wounds which have left scares as reminders of both the pain and the healing. Looking back over my past, I am in awe that God would take a young man like me who felt he could never be good enough, a liar, a cheat, afraid to let people close, and bring healing and forgiveness into his life. I also look back and know that God strategically placed men and women along the path to encourage, love and journey with me in a way that lead to hope and healing. And then finally, that God would bring me to this place in my life and would entrust to me the founding and nurturing of such an awesome church and ministry as The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch is a great mystery to me and yet a sign of his grace, mercy and love. Would I change anything about my past? No! God has used it in a redemptive way to make me who I am and who I will yet be and for that I am eternally thankful.

May I always be a leader who models God's grace, mercy and forgiveness, living with authenticity, humility and godliness, that Jesus might display his unlimited patience through my life as an example for all who follow.

Day 8 - A Dead Bird

This is day 8 of our Thanksgiving Experiment. Last night as I was turning out the lights for the evening I found a sparrow by my front door. It was huddled into the corner, shivering, sick, and dying. I could tell it was not going to make for whatever reason and I felt helpless to make a difference. When I got up this morning I found it dead in the corner where I had left it.

A sparrow's life is a small thing yet in scripture Jesus teaches that even a sparrow's life and death are not outside of God's purview. I was S.O.A.P.ing up this morning in Luke 12 where Jesus is speaking to the crowds including Pharisees about not fearing or becoming preoccupied with the harsh realities of the physical life, but rather seek God and his kingdom, focusing on the spiritual realities and eternal treasures that make this life worth living. In the midst of Jesus admonishing the crowd he illustrates with the sparrow. "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." Jesus is saying to me and to all of us, if a sparrow's situation is known by God and valued, then don't you know and believe that you matter to me and I that am aware of every nuance of your life and circumstances?

I am reminded and thankful today of God's watchful eye, his compassionate gaze and his love for me. I may feel alone, cornered, suffering, worried, my situation unknown by the world around me, but my God is always with me on the journey, patiently and lovingly taking me to new heights to see with a kingdom perspective all that is eternal. It is this eternal view of life that sets me free to fly, "for those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:31

Let your life take flight today with thanksgiving to God for his watchful eye, compassionate gaze and loving heart.

Day 7 - Republicrats

It is day 7 of our Thanksgiving experiment and I just got back from voting! Bottom line ... today I am thanking God for my country. I was at the dinner table last night and we were taking about politics. My son Wes asked me, "Are we Republican or Democrat?" I said, "Well, neither ... I believe that you vote for a person not a party." Wes said, "Oh, we're Republicrats!" And in a way I guess we are.

My heart has never been for a party, but for my God. I know godly men and women in both parties who desire nothing more than for the God who ordained government to lead the men and women who serve in it. With all its imperfections, party politics, faults and foibles, I still believe ours is a great country to live in. listening to politicians wax eloquent about themselves and at the same, put their opponents down is discouraging, but honestly, politicians are people too! And like the rest of us, they are broken, sinful, human beings that apart from God's grace, love, forgiveness and leadership will serve out of their flesh no matter what party they serve.

So what can we do? Well the first and the most important commitment you can make is to pray for your political leaders! Shirley Dobson, chairman of the National Day of Prayer Task Force, said, "We truly believe the prayer of God's people is our nation's only hope and greatest untapped resource ..." and I would agree. After today we will have some new faces serving in government. Some of them are Christ followers some are not. How should we pray for them? So here are some ways to pray for our political leaders ...

In 1 Timothy 2:1-2 Pauls writes ... “I urge, then that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”

Consider these 12 guidelines in praying for political leaders, ours as well as those in other countries. (the following is from an article written by John Redecop)

• Pray that rulers will practice personal integrity. The peaceful functioning of government requires public trust and confidence. The fragile fabric of civilized society weakens and even unravels if rulers cheat, lie, steal, take bribes, and deceive.

• Pray that rulers will rule justly. This includes seeking truth, acting on truth, and resisting any temptation to become arbitrary or unfair.

• Pray that rulers will do good to us all, for God has mandated them as “God’s servant[s] for our good” (Romans 3:4). Such positive action can take many forms.
  
  
• Pray that governments will resist evil and be moral in punishing evildoers. “Governors” are “sent by God to punish those who do wrong” (1 Peter 2:14)
  
  
• Pray that rulers will pursue ways of peace. Those who rule can be easily tempted to undertake unwarranted military action, for wars, after all, often unite people, distract citizens from poor government, and bring short-term prosperity.
  
  
• Pray that governments will manage the economy carefully and wisely in areas ranging from taxation to budgeting, trade negotiations to debt reduction, and currency manipulation to setting interest rates, all of which have tremendous impact on citizens.
  
  
• Pray that rulers will create and maintain a climate of freedom, including freedom of religion, assembly, speech, the press, and movement.
  
  
• Pray that governments will defend and promote human dignity. As Christians we are strongly motivated in this area because we know that all persons are made in the image of God.
  
  
• Pray that governments will govern for the common good and not for their own advantage.
  
  
• Pray that governments will be open to good counsel and advice, including counsel from Christians.
  
  
• Pray that rulers will come to understand and acknowledge God’s role in human affairs and their accountability to God. Even the ungodly king Nebuchadnezzar came to such an understanding (Daniel 3:28ff)
  
  
• If rulers are not Christians, we should follow Paul’s example as he witnessed to King Agrippa and other rulers, and do our part, especially in prayer, so they may come to salvation (Acts 24, 26).

Our general attitude should be one of gratitude. Given that Paul urged Christians to be grateful even for the brutal dictatorship of his day (doubtless believing that the Roman dictatorship was better than anarchy), how much more should we be grateful for governments that provide freedom and much else that is good. Even if we don’t support the government of the day and may actually work to defeat it democratically, we should still pray for it.

Any time is the right time to pray for political leaders. They need it. Scripture commands it. And obedience to God requires it.

Pray this morning and then go vote your conscious as a follower of Christ.

Day 5 - Smiles and Donuts

What a Sunday! 83 of our ladies on an annual retreat, tired husbands and dads dragging in with kids in tow! What a sight and one which was rewarded ... we had donuts for dads and kids! I bought 20 dozen donuts, milk and juice ... and it didn't take long before every donut was obliterated! Then came the sugar high and nervous Children's ministry leaders. Well they survived the weekend and so did I. Thank God for donuts!

Day 4 - Staying the Course

Today is Saturday Day 4 in our Thanksgiving experiment and all I want to do is sleep. I skipped my run, slept late, and am trying to get motivated to stay on task and write in my China journal ... got ... to ... finish ... writing ... this ... journal. It's painfully slow and laborious and I don't want to do it, I want to go outside and play, it's gorgeous outside, but alas I need some help and so I pause spend time with God and his word. Lord give me strength, perseverance, discipline ... be careful what you pray for as I am S.O.A.P.ing up in Romans 5 "... we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." Christ suffered, gave his life for mine and reconciled my relationship to the Father through his death.

"Staying the course" has become a politically charged phrase but one which expressing my understanding of Christ's perseverance in the face of struggle, anguish and torment. O.K. Lord, I'll stop whining about what I have to do and ask only that you work in me and through me. I am so thankful that you stayed the course, that you didn't give up when times got tough. Life is full of difficulties and they don't even compare to all that you went through for me. Your persevering life has given me so much peace, joy, forgiveness, love, grace, mercy and so much more.

Day 3 - Tick Tock of the clock

This is Day 3 of our Thanksgiving experiment - This last Sunday a friend gave me a special gift, it was a watch. Not just any watch, but one which he made. It is old school, no bells, no whistles, no battery, it's the kind you wind every day. All this week as I have worn it, wound it and watched it (no pun intended) it has reminded me to live life as it comes, embrace each moment, look for God in all that he is doing and give thanks for each breath, each heartbeat, each laugh, each opportunity to drink deeply the sacrament of time!

I'm sitting here at the kitchen table after my run (it was 43 degrees this morning), I'm enjoying a pot of tea and having pancakes with the kids. I am reminded how quickly they grow up and how important it is to capture the moment to laugh, talk, love ... to slow down for just a moment ... but the moment is short lived as we look at the clock and realize that time has gotten away from us. So off they go and I begin to thank God for moments like these. Reflecting on the up coming weekend I am aware that mornings like this are becoming more rare; everyone is going in different directions. Take this week end for example; Gail leaves for the ladies retreat, Wes heads to the Jr. High retreat, Allison works tonight, takes the SAT in the morning and then joins the retreat tomorrow to lead worship ... and me well I'm here reading and writing on a doctoral seminar. Life seems full these days, not busy, just full. Full of life, family, friends, learning and God; all being experienced with each tick tock of the clock.

But right now, at this moment I am pausing to S.O.A.P. up in Ecclesiastes 3, you know the passage, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:" Time is one of those enigmas; it costs, it pays, it passes too slow, too fast, like sand, the tighter you hold on to it the more it slips away. I think the older I get the more I want to drink deeply of every sacred moment. God is the creator of time; he knows it, understands it, gives it, redeems it, can stop it, speed it up or even bring it to an end as we know it. In the mystery of time I look to the creator of time and find rest from the pace, joy in the journey and yes ... sacrament in each moment.

Day 2 - Anum Cara

This is day two of our Thanksgiving experiment ... it started early with an opportunity to share at Living Water International. The president, Jerry Wiles, is a friend and an incredible man. Then I had lunch with another friend, Jeff Waldo, who is a futurist and strategic planner with an I.Q. and E.Q. to change the world. Two encounters with friends made me stop and think about friendship. And then I got back to the office and had some time to S.O.A.P. up in Ephesians 5:22-33, I was reminded of my best friend.

Anum cara means "soul friend" in the Celtic tradition. I have an anum cara, her name is Gail. In this season of thanksgiving, I give thanks for a wife and best friend. I'm sitting here reflecting upon all that enriches my life and gives it meaning and apart from my God, my dearest friend, companion and sojourner is my wife, Gail. For many who may not know me well or my love for my anum cara, you should know that we have been married almost 23 years (22 years this last August):-) and she is more beautiful to me that ever. She has brought three precious children into the world and together we have learned how to be parents, friends, lovers, partners on the journey.

But, I have not always honored her and loved her as Christ would have me and that is to my shame. Back on October 1oth I wrote in my blog, "Like most couples, Gail and I are very different when it comes to money. She's stingy and I'm generous, she's frugal and I'm free living, she's budget- focused and I'm into blessing others, she's reading this and I'm in trouble. :-)" Two weeks later a dear friend wrote me these words, "Friend, I love you and am concerned about some recent words that you have shared about Gail to the church. Words like - she’s a Martha, she keeps me in line or she’s financially tight. I recognize that you shared those with no malice, but do be careful with comments about your precious wife. They could undermine your great marriage." My heart sank, to think that I might say or do anything to hurt my precious anum cara cut me to the core. This last Friday, I sat with my wife and confessed my insensitivity and careless words, and asked her forgiveness, through tears we recognized on easy it is hurt those you love. For friends on the journey who speak truth in love, I am thankful! For friends who inspire me and stretch me, I am thankful! But most of all, for my anum cara, my Gail, to God I say thank you for the blessing of a soul friend.

30 Days of Thanksgiving … an Experiment

Today begins a season of Thanksgiving. November rolls around and my thoughts turn to turkey, football, family, Thanksgiving and yes … Christmas. It is so easy to skip right over Thanksgiving these days as Christmas decorations go on display simultaneously with July 4^th fireworks. Already Christmas “sale” signs are alerting every shopper to the “early bargains” and smaller crowds. Everyone is encouraged to get a jump on the mall madness and Christmas frenzy. But what if I could slow down and focus for just a moment each day for the next 30 days, focusing my heart and filling my thoughts with thanksgiving toward God? How would that change me or better yet, my Christmas celebration?

David reminds us Psalms 42:4, “These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng.” My capacity for thanksgiving is key to my authentic celebration because it represents where I truly put my hope, my faith and my love. So here’s a thought … let’s do this experiment together. Will you join me on the journey each day for 30 days in this Thanksgiving Experiment?

Let me begin by encouraging you to S.O.A.P up in Psalm 69:30-36 and reflect on the ways you can express your praise and thanksgiving during the next 30 days. I must admit sometimes my adoration, praise and thanksgiving is an attempt to butter God up so I can get to the important stuff, what I need and want. Let’s take this season to focus our hearts, minds and lives on our God who is worthy of our thanks. We have so much to be thankful for … let the experiment begin!

Spiritual Wrestling Match

Today is Halloween ... a day that many despise for different reasons. For some of us, it is a rip off. Last night my wife and I were in a local grocery store purchasing candy for tonight's onslaught of costume clad munchkins filling the streets of our community. As I looked at the prices for a bag of pure sugar I told her that this is a racket, plan and simple. They know you are going to buy candy and so they frighten the money right out of your wallet. But on a more serious note, many struggle with this day because for them it represents a spiritual wrestling match in which the winner's prize is the heart and soul of a child, a family, or even a community.

This morning I was S.O.A.P.ing up in Ephesians 6:12-13. It reads "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground ..."

Precious children filling the streets, they're not the enemy! Mom's and dads dressing up their darling young ones, they're not the enemy! The enemy is a spiritual one, the deceiver, the liar, the devil. We take our battle to the spiritual realm where we wrestle with the forces of darkness. Whether you agree or not, I believe that we must engage the enemy on his own turf. The bible says that the gates of Hell will not stand up against the attacks of God's people. This is a night to be light! This is a night to engage with love and truth! This is a night to bless and not curse!

Tonight I am hoping that a large number of parents and kids will experience a different side of this haunted eve of all that is spooky and scary. We are inviting our kids and the community to come to The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch for a fun time on the "Lighter" side. Here are the details:

• For Ages Toddler – 4th grade (older siblings welcome)
• Great Station Activities with Games, Candy and Prizes
• 5:45 – 6:15 Hot Dogs, Chips & beverage (as supplies last)
• 6:00 – 7:00 All Activity Stations Open for Children (enter Raffle Prize at each station!)
• 7:15 – 8:00 The Hallelujah Show (Puppet Show) and 13+ Raffle Prizes!

Bring your kids tonight, bring your neighbors kids, rent some kids! Forward this invitation to a friend and I'll see you tonight! Let your light shine in the darkness of this Halloween!

I'm NUTS about YOU!

This morning I was S.O.A.P.ing up in 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17. It says "May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word." Paul's prayer or blessing leaped right off the page and into the present as yesterday my Lord Jesus encouraged and strengthened me through a group of dear friends called The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch. What a surprise to be handed almost 200 pieces of paper all with gracious words and thoughts that brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart. I spent yesterday afternoon in my office savoring each written word as a if they were drops of rain falling on a parched desert floor. With each stroke of the pen it was as if God was so graciously expressing words through his people that touched deep within my soul. I am indeed a blessed man, a rich man and a humbled man.

I only hope that I can continue to live a life worthy of such friendship, respect and honor. I leave you with these words of affirmation and encouragement ... "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

Ring Survey

Last Friday I did a little survey about rings ... here are the results.

My ring is "Hello MoTo"....because it sounds like "Hello MoJo"...and that is my nick name. Mauri A.

My rings are not at all spiritual. My ring tones are music from rock groups: RUSH’s song titled “Tom Sawyer” and Motely Crue’s “She Got The Looks That Kill.” I love music man. I was raised in the heavy metal era. Andy S.

Just “vibrate” for everyone. I know it is boring, but at least I am not embarrassed in church by my phone ringing . Doug K.

I have a Jamaican sounding ring. It makes me laugh!!! My husband just has a regular telephone sound on his. Anonymous

I downloaded the song “Better is One Day in Your House” (I think that’s the name of it.) Anyway, every time I hear my phone ring I’m reminded of what the Father has waiting for me. Carol H.

My ring is a cat meow-ing!!! Penny T.

The ring on my phone is called…Dancing Puppets…it just sounded like Children’s Ministry so I chose it…incase you were serious about knowing ring tones… Debbie D.

My ring for Steve is called fanfare, it sounds like the announcing trumpets of a King - since he his king of our castle and my heart! Diane W.

When Glenn calls it plays Hallelujah!!! Karen L.

Let your life ring out the truth of God's love and grace!

Two Sided Posters!

The last 5 weeks have been intense times of prayer, seeking God, wanting to understand his will and his way for my life and my church. Then Sunday came, "Celebration Sunday", one service, all together, to celebrate all that God has done. There was a tremendous amount of spiritual electricity in the gym at the YMCA. I confess, the emotions were difficult for me to suppress. I found myself overwhelmed by the realization of God's faithfulness in the face of my betrayals. My mind seemed to fill with flashbulb moments from the past as if God was pointing out the defining markers in my life, family, ministry of which this Sunday was about to be added to the album.

Then it happened ... the first person walked to the front of the stage, their facial expressions sad and solemn; they held up a poster expressing brokenness, lostness, pain; then they turned the poster over revealing a changed heart, a transformed life and a smile filled their face communicating beyond words the work of God in their lives. One by one they came, poster after poster turned over, two sided posters representing healing, wholeness, redemption, life, hope, meaning and purpose. I couldn't hold back the tears. I thought I would share with each of you the changed life expressed on each two sided poster ...

Bound by fear ... Freed by truth

Worldy focused ... Heavenly focused

Broken pieces ... He is the glue that holds me together

Broken hearted ... Healed & loving heart

Angry ... At peace

Withdrawn ... Came Alive

Blind heart ... Walking by faith, not by sight

Could not have children ... Was given 4 blessings

Suicidal, Lost, Broken ... Full of life, Found, Whole

Spiritually dead ... Alive In Christ

Hungry for more ... Filled by the Spirit

Believed in reason ... Believe God is the reason

Outcast ... Accepted

Empty Worship ... Singing Authentic Praises

Broken family ... Family restored

Intellectual believer ... Personal relationship

Status quo life ... Overjoyed with life

Defeated by the enemy's lies ... Living in Christ's Victory

Divided ... United

Thought I had NO gifts to offer ... Found my TRUE gifts

Had lots of life questions ... Found the Answer

Winning for myself ... Winning for God's Team

Seeking love & acceptance ... Found Grace & Mercy

Parentless ... Amazing parents

I was in bondage ... Now I'm set free

I was barren ... God doubly blessed me

Low self-esteem ... Glowing in God's love

Never wanted children ... Love my girls

Burdened by guilt and shame ... FREE! FREE! FREE!

Unable to commit ... Fully committed

Shattered ... Complete in Christ

I was #1 ... Helping others is the GREATEST reward

Served to protect our country ... A Marine in God's Army

Unclear Mission ... Divine Purpose

Last in line ... 1st at Heaven's Gate!


Sunday was such a high it took a day just to come down! What a celebration!

Thank you Lord for changing our lives!

What does your ring say about you?

I love a good run on a cool morning! My friend and I pushed each other along a 5.4 mile course with a little conversation and a lot of enjoyment! Our last mile was a heart pumping 7:54, for an old slow guy like me that was finishing strong. I'm sitting here on my day off enjoying the quiet and S.O.A.P.ing up on 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10 when a thought just came to me ... "What does your ring say about you?"

It's amazing how many different phone rings you hear these days. My wife has "say you'll love me" from the Phantom of Opera play every time my number rings on her phone. When my oldest daughter calls from college, her ring is a siren, we call her the "siren girl", because during her first year at college, every call was a crisis. The rings we choose for people say something about the strength or randomness of the relationship. Let's do a survey ... email me the rings you have or post them on my blog and I will make a list and send then out on Monday with the next Sacred Journey.

So when your name pops up on the mental LCD of someone's thoughts what song is playing? For Paul every time the Thessalonian church rang he heard a song that reminded him of their "work produced by faith ... labor prompted by love ... endurance inspired by hope." He goes on say that they were the original "Live Out Loud" church ... "The Lord's message rang out from you ... your faith in God has become known everywhere." I pray that my life will ring of my faith, love and hope in God.

In case you're wondering what ring I have on my phone when you call me ... actually I don't use the ring, I have a blackberry and all it does it vibrate! Think about that for a minute! :-)

Chip In

Have you ever wanted or needed something so bad you could taste it, but you knew you didn't have the resources to get it, to make it happen? Maybe as a kid, like me, you got your friends together and you all chipped in to buy a skate board or a bike or even a lawn mower. You did that so you could enjoy, experience or even earn what one could person could not by themselves. As I was S.O.A.P.ing up this morning in Acts 2:41-47 it just hit me! Why would people sell their stuff and collectively "chip in" to the pot except that they wanted, needed, desired something so bad that they were willing to cooperate and collaborate with others to make the impossible happen.

I am so excited about what God is doing in my life, my community, my church. As we have been going through our Live Out Loud campaign my feelings have only intensified. Like most of you reading this blog who are members of The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch, there are somethings that I want so desperately that I am willing to sacrifice to see them happen. I want so desperately for our teenagers to have place to bring their friends, a place for them grow in their relationship with Christ, a place they can call their own. I want so desperately to make room for the many families in our community who need hope in their lives, marriages and families, who need to know that they matter to God. I want so desperately to make room for children who are beginning their spiritual journey with that child like faith that Jesus spoke of, to expand our capacity to reach them at the earliest age. I want so desperately for the men and women, boys and girls of our community to know the eternal love of Jesus Christ, to know that they matter to God ... but we can't do it by ourselves, we need each other. That's why God made the church and gave her the message of reconciliation. That's why God knits our hearts together in a compelling and shared vision of transforming lives, families, communities and even countries.

When we all desire to see the same thing happen, when we all want our neighbors, friends, family members to experience what we have experienced in and through Christ, then we are ready to "chip in" time, talents and yes, even treasures to make an eternal difference.

These last few weeks I have seen just that, an uncommon unity, an uncommon generosity! A people who desire to give what they have to make a difference by building a Community center as a tool for meeting needs, sharing love and reaching out to families throughout our city. As we "chip in" the impossible becomes possible and God's people are Living Out Loud lives that shout his love.

Until tomorrow ... Live Out Loud

Pit Bulls and Poodles

Who do you think would win a fight between a pit bull and a poodle? Before you pick the aggressive pit bull and say the docile poodle doesn't have a chance, you might want to consider a news report coming out of the Sweden. They reported that a poodle attacked a pit bull in Southern Sweden and wounded the dog and its owner.

The poodle's owner defended the action of the dog saying the poodle was friendly until the pit bull showed signs that it disliked the poodle. The pit bull felt the wrath of the poodle when it went on the offensive. Trying to rescue the pit bull, its owner stepped in between the dogs and got bit on her leg by the poodle. You have to admire the Napoleonic courage of the poodle. The reputation of the pit bull didn't keep it from standing its ground and fighting.

Too often I let Satan's reputation precede him and paralyze me. I have heard stories of demonic possessions and Satanic power and at times I have timidly choose to ignore the enemies attacks. At times I am afraid to confront injustice or to speak a positive word about my faith for fear of reprisal or rejection. I find myself afraid that if I act boldly that I will draw attention to myself and the enemy will intensity his attack.

Under my own power, I might face defeat, but I am not fighting Satan with poodle power (though don't underestimate the power of the poodle), I am fighting him with the power of the Holy Spirit. In my S.O.A.P. today I saw the courage that comes from a life lived in the presence of God through the power of his Spirit. In Acts 4:1-14 Peter and John stand face to face with a pack of pit bulls called Pharisees and they didn't back down. May my courage confound and my message profess that Jesus alone is the hope of mankind. Satan had better watch out for the bite of God's people ... there's not bark here, it's all bite when it comes to a pit bull named Satan!

Until tomorrow ... Live Out Loud the Sacred Journey!

Indescribable

Friday I wrote my blog about 3 indescribable moments having to do with my family all together to celebrate Wesley's birthday, a call from a friend, Patrick Richardson, to say Faith had been born and a birthday celebration with a fellow laborer in the vineyard, Robert Jackman who turned 47 and looks great! :-) As I finished writing out my thoughts on the indescribable feelings I had experience in moments of laughter, life and friendship ... I posted Friday's blog into cyberspace and that is where it stayed! The moment I realized that all I had written had vanished into some black hole never to be seen or heard from again, the feeling was indescribable! It has taken me a few days to recover from that nauseous experience, but I'm back.

This morning as our executive staff met in my office I had another indescribable moment. I heard some sad news, our dear friend and attorney, Stu Levin, had suffered a tragic loss, his son was killed 3 weeks ago by a drunk driver. I had no idea what had transpired and was grieved to hear of his loss ... his pain is indescribable. I talked with Stu this morning to let him know that I was praying for him and was so sorry that I was not there to journey with him during these last few weeks.

The truth is that much of life is indescribable, the highs and the lows, but what I have experienced over these last few days as indescribable as it has been, the love which Christ has shown to me in the midst of those moments as indescribable as the moment itself, a love demonstrated by his prayer for me in the garden. As he faced death, his thoughts were for me and my eternity. I am amazed at God's love, generosity, grace, power, patience and so much more. Whether in my moments of greatest joy or the pain of the valley of the shadow of death ... God is there and he is truly is indescribable!

An Equation for Rich Generosity

... (overflowing joy) + (extreme poverty) = rich generosity ... It doesn't add up! How do you have joy and poverty together? And then, where does generosity come from when there is nothing to give? I am befuddled when I read Paul's experience in 2 Corinthians 8 where you see a kingdom equation written on the hearts of a people who aren't equating their joy to circumstances nor their capacity for generosity to their impoverished state.

I wonder, would I have joy if I were living in extreme poverty? Would I live generously, giving beyond my means to bless others? I guess it all depends on my understanding of joy, poverty and generosity!

Joy is not happiness ... which tends to oscillate with our every changing circumstances. No, joy is the confidence I have in God's promises and presence regardless of my circumstances ... it is my steadfast assurance that God will always be there and that he will never change! My capacity for generous living is never tied to how much I have or don't have but rather my joy! Joy in any economic state results in generosity! Take away my joy and no amount of money can lead to generous living!

Until tomorrow ... Live Out Loud ... joyfully and generously for they are not dependent upon your riches!

Revolution

I am in a revolution, being called to bear arms against a regime that stands against all I believe in. Scripture says that this enemy's gates cannot stand the pounding of the collective onslaught of God's people. There is too much at stake for me not to commit all I am and all I have to the battle. Yet, my commitment is often challenged. The earnestness of my devotion and trust in God's plans and purposes are questioned. My hand of faith is forced and must be laid on the table for all to see.

Do you ever step out in faith, make a decision to commit it all and then watch as seemingly everything starts to unravel? I think to myself, "Did I make the right decision?" "God, what are you doing, I thought you were going to be with me and bless me?" "I thought you had a plan to defeat the enemy not let him attack me with such force." Disappointment enters the picture or is it dissatisfaction?
On Monday a friend of mine sent me a quote that a friend of hers had written:

"But it is more earnest then even that, revolution is impossible without an ingredient every one of us hates and avoids with all the cunning of understandable self-protection. Disappointment is the despised essential of authentic change. Disappointment is a catalyst. Yet, 'disappointment' isn't exactly the word; it languishes a little too long in the atmosphere of defeat. 'Dissatisfaction', on the other hand, has a tang of energetic hope and carries the idea more accurately. For the dissatisfied are likely to try again, and then...try again if need be; they are the ones who give a good attempt...trip...lie there to catch their breath; still sprawled, the pain of failure dissipates and they slowly recall the beauty of their original hope, realizing that though the attempt to attain it may have resulted in an undignified face-plant, hope, never the less remains utterly beautiful. Renewed love inspires belief and soon enough, the Dissatisfied are filled with fresh hope; they get up, dust off and give another effort. The Dissatisfied are dogged because they love well, almost too well. "

Circumstances have a way of causing me to take my eyes off the reality of the big picture, the meta narrative, the grander theme, the reason for my hope! And yet as I stop and ponder God's work in light of my struggle, I am inspired like Paul to say "I can do everything through him (Christ) who gives me strength!" Yet I am not in the fight alone for I have an army of brothers and sisters who are equally committed to the fight and whose sacrifice and generosity are a fragrant offering to God. I am renewed, inspired, strengthened and motivated to press on and prepare for all that God has for me. My prayer for all is that we trust in the God who is able to meet all our needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. May our holy dissatisfaction cause us to Live Out Loud, again and again and again!

I can't wait till this Sunday! Until tomorrow ... Live Out Loud on the Sacred Journey

Yesterday I said it was Yom Kippur, I was only a week off as my Jewish brother and fellow Christ follower, Alan Litvak chided me. :-) But Alan says thanks for stopping to pray for Israel anyway! This morning during my S.O.A.P, as I was reading in 1 Corinthians 29:1-20, I was inspired by the generosity of David and his son Solomon, but one thing I know about money, riches and giving it away (not that I have a lot) ... it can cause conflict in a marriage. Solomon had a whole lot of wives, so I wonder how they were taking this act of generosity?

The truth is with the divorce rate over 50% for first time marriages the number one reason given for marital conflict is ... you guessed it, "money". This is the third time in the last 8 years that Gail and I have had to come to an agreement about what God would have us to give in a capital campaign. It is no easy task! Like most couples, Gail and I are very different when it comes to money. She's stingy and I'm generous, she's frugal and I'm free living, she's budget- focused and I'm into blessing others, she's reading this and I'm in trouble. :-) So last week as we were arm wrestling to see whose number would be the one ... just when she was about to win ... God intervened and the words of David rang out, "Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand." Ouch ... we find ourselves fighting over giving God his money to fulfill his purposes.

The truth is, that just like all of you who are reading this, money plays a huge part in my life and allows me to accomplish my goals and desires. The Live Out Loud campaign has been a reminder that it's not all about me, my goals, my desires and my agenda but rather God's goals, agenda, purposes and plans which are eternal. I have a choice, I can either join him by trusting in his generosity and love for me or I can tell him no thanks, I will take care of myself.

As you and your family prepare to make your commitments on Commitment Sunday this weekend I am praying for you. I hope that rather than dividing couples, this will be an opportunity for uniting couples. Really, Gail and I were pretty close this time and as we prayed and came together to seek God's direction it has brought comfort not conflict into our lives. Until tomorrow, Live Out Loud ...

Today is Yom Kippur, the day of atonement. It is the holiest day of the Jewish calendar. I am praying today for Israel, Jerusalem and all Jewish people, that they may know peace, forgiveness and God's eternal salvation through Jesus the Messiah of the world. Join me today in prayer for Israel. It is also the 16th day of Ramadan and I am reminded of the Muslim men, women and children in Aceh who have suffered so much and are desperate need of a good news. I am praying that during this season of Ramadan many kingdom workers in Aceh would have the opportunity to speak of the life that is found in Jesus.

Yesterday was an awesome Sunday! David Ruzicka, one of our Pastors, spoke powerfully about the church and the reality that the local church is the hope of the world! I was moved and inspired! I went during the second service over to experience our senior high Realife service. Daniel Willingham, our Interim Student Pastor, was awesome as he spoke of Jesus' healing of the blind man, he actually took dirt and poured water into and put it on the eyes of one of students acting as the blind beggar. I sat and listened as he spoke of different kinds of people in the story and challenged students to consider the truth of God's word. Probably the capstone of the morning was the announcement that 36 leadership families have made their Live Out Loud commitments totaling over 1.4 million. I am inspired by generosity, sacrifice and obedience of our leaders. Not all of our leadership were able to get their commitments in but wow! I can't wait till this Sunday to see the generosity of God's people as we move forward. My Sunday finished with my Life Group as we watched the Live Out Loud lesson on commitment. Great job Garth! I was challenged by the creative use of resources to accomplish the goal. That brings us right to today's S.O.A.P.

As I S.O.A.P. ed up this morning in Luke 16:1-15, I found myself asking why Jesus would commend a dishonest worker. But as I meditated upon the passage it became clear that Jesus was commending the worker for using money rather than serving money! Wow! How many times have I been caught up in the pursuit of money, wealth, riches, or prosperity for me? As a child of God I have earthly treasure that can be used to build my kingdom or God's Kingdom. The heart of this passage is about being wise and discerning in the use of my resources to serve God's agenda. I want to master money not have money as my master! There is only one God, one King, one Kingdom, one agenda and I want to commit everything to battle. Until tomorrow ...

I over slept this morning ... missed my run ... and I think I'm more tired than if I would have got up at 4:45 and run! But hey ... Friday is my day off ... Gail and I call it "Fantastic Friday", a day to catch up on life, do chores, run errands, wash, dry and fold laundry, go to the grocery store, do a little yard work ... did I say day off? Actually, it's a day filled with all of that and a little rest and reflection. I like to look back over the week and reflect on God's goodness and blessings and this has been one of those weeks where God has been present in the storms and the stillness. We finished up our Live Out Loud Fellowships, (all though, if you were able to attend one, I am having a special Live Out Loud Fellowship just for you on Sunday noon right after the second service.)

I'm sitting here reading God's word and am so encouraged by the realness of God's people. Men and women just like you and me who were faithful in face of real life. Today's passage in Hebrews 11:17-40 speaks to the faith of our spiritual ancestors and how they walked even though they may have never seen the promises of God fulfilled they stayed the course of faith.

Bottom line, we all can grow weary and lose heart. In our world of immediate gratification, quick fixes and instant everything we can get impatient with God. We can be tempted to doubt, to strike out on our own to look for answers, solutions or something. But many have gone before you who have learned to walk by faith. Their collective experiences offer encouragement, hope and a reality that it is worth it all in the end!

• What kind of sacrifices have others made for me?
• What am I risking as a follower of Christ? What is the cost?
• How am I inspired, encouraged and empowered by the life and death of Christ?
• Will my legacy be about my fortune or my faith? How then must I live?

My Pray ... Lord, may I be included some day about that cloud of witnesses whose faith has lived on as an example for all. I need your strength to stay the course. You, Jesus, are the one that I look to in the midst of difficulties, disease, detours, distractions and even doubts. Thank you for not quitting, but for loving me enough to endure the cross for the forgiveness of my sin. I want my life to be filled with heart, passion, conviction and devotion to you. I love you Lord!

Until tomorrow ...

Faith is not trying to believe something irrespective the evidence, but rather faith is daring to do something regardless of the consequences. When I read Hebrews 11, the hall of fame for the faithful I can't help but see men and women who faced life with faith even when the consequences were potentially devastating! We all celebrate their obedience and trust in God because of what ultimately happened, but the reality is that they walked into an uncertain future filled with harsh, grime realities and yet they were sustained by their devotion and faith in the one who gave them the command, the one who made the promise, the one who gave the provision. Like Moses, I want to say loud and clear ... Lord, you lead the way, because if you don't go with me I'm not going!

Gail and I, like many of our friends at The Fellowship are wrestling to hear God's voice and to walk in obedience during this Live Out Loud season. There is too much at stake for us to do anything else but seek God and to be men and women of faith!

Succession plans are a necessary part of any journey. Whether it is Moses passing the baton to Joshua, a father handing down the family business to his children, or someone like Paul giving the missional torch to his protege, Timothy. If in my last hours, I had but a few words to speak into the lives of those who would come after me, those who would carry on the mission, the vision, the heart of my life ... "What would I say?" Maybe a better question is "What would my life have said?" There is a principle that says, we teach what we know, but we reproduce who we are. So ... what is my succession plan, who will carry on the mission of my life?

For me, I think it begins with my children. They are the legacy I will leave behind. Paul considered Timothy to be like a son and as such spoke in loving terms as a father would. For me, I want to live in a way that demonstrates and communicates with great clarity and conviction the cause of Christ, so that Emily, Allison and Wesley, might know and desire Christ and his kingdom, realizing that it's worth giving their lives to! I want to prepare them to live a life that shouts His love.

It's also the next generation of men and women who will be the voice proclaiming, with clarity and intensity, the message of God's love! They are those who will challenge, warn and urge people to follow, love, sacrifice, obey and live out loud this transformational truth of God's redeeming work on the cross.

Paul's words to young Timothy are words each generation of Christ followers should hear and repeat, words of wisdom and encouragement to be passed on to those who will carry the torch of the Christian faith. Until tomorrow ... Live Out Loud!