The ultimate struggle

In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. Hebrews 12:4

This verse jumped out at me the other day when I was reading through Hebrews 12. It's like it stared me square in the eyes and said, 'know me well'. I immediately began to repent of my lack of aggressive persevering through temptation and sin. Often times we allow laziness, apathy, and discouragement to be our friends in the fight against sin and darkness. As believers we are called to be Holy as God is holy, but how? It doesn't just happen does it? I believe one of the keys lies here in this verse.

What does it mean to resist to the point of shedding your blood? The ultimate example is our Lord Jesus Christ. He resisted to the point of shedding His own blood for the sins of the world on a shameful cross. Jesus knew what it meant to resist sin in every way. The bible says that He was even tempted in every way as we are, yet was without sin. We must follow His example of struggling to overcome no matter what.

Can I encourage you today that it is possible to resist? Whatever your dark horse is, whatever issue you have been tempted in over and over again. Have you given up believing that you will be free? Without shame? Clean again? You know it starts with recognizing your own depravity and darkness, but not wallowing in it. No once we realize we are dark, we must embrace that we are more importantly lovely and worth fighting for in the eyes of God. This is good news people. You are more than your sin and darkness, you are more than this world makes you to be. Put your hope and trust in God. Be encouraged.

Blameless Before God

20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit,
21 keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.
22 And have mercy on those who doubt;
23 save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy,
25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. Jude 1:20-25

I love these verses they cut straight to the point. The scripture is so accurate and precise it blows my mind. The word of God is designed to pierce our hearts, convict us of our sin, and set us on a course of being blameless before God.

Can you imagine standing blameless before God? This will not be because of our own righteousness or good deeds. It is the blood of Jesus alone that will present us blameless and without deceit before the eternal God.

Therefore beloved:
1. Build yourself up in the most Holy Faith (20)
2. Pray in the holy spirit (20)
3. Keep yourselves in the love of God(21)
4. Have mercy on those who doubt(22)
5. Save others by snatching them out of the fire(23)
6. To others show mercy with fear(23)

May we press on to know God and make Him known. Be blessed.

Create

Today's post will be a bit different in nature. I am going to brag on my wife a bit and show some of her art work. My wife is an amazing artist and I am blessed by her work.

The desire to create is in all of us to different degrees. Even the person who is not artistic has the ability to create. It is a God given talent and desire. Whether you are creating with your hands or with your mind, be it in business or the Arts. The Creator is the originator of creativity, and therefore we must know His heart and desire for us as His kids to create.

Everlasting Kingdom

13 "I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him.
14 And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed. Daniel 7:13-14

I was just having a conversation yesterday with someone who was very disappointed with the outcome of the elections. I began to share about a kingdom that is everlasting and perfect in every way, unlike the flawed minor kingdom of this world. Isn't this the whole goal to living here on earth? Do we not await a better kingdom, one whose king will rule and reign forever in absolute truth, love, justice and mercy? Yes, I was excited to share with him how someone can find this kingdom and how to secure a place in this kingdom.

Therefore put your hope in the kingdom of heaven and of God. The kingdom of America will fade in all of its glory and power. This kingdom is manipulated and controlled by worldly hands. Pray for your nation and for those who rule it. We are in a desperate hour no doubt. As the church we need to be a salt and light, a city on a hill that cannot be hidden. We have the keys to this kingdom. We have the answers that will lead people to never hunger or thirst again.

Lesser gods

They drank wine and praised the gods of gold and silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone. Daniel 5:4

We are living in a day where people praise the lesser gods of gold and silver, bronze and iron, wood and stone. What does this really mean? It means that many are consumed with idolatry and idol worship. Oh really? It might look different than in Africa or India, but be not deceived. A tree will be known by its fruit. We pursue that which we worship. Where your treasure is there your heart will be also.

The God of all creation, Yahweh, Elohim, Jehovah...He will be enthroned forever and ever. It cannot be reversed. He is the Great King who will govern with true justice, righteousness, and love. We do not look to man to bring what only God can give. He is not flawed in any way. Take courage friends today.

Fire walkers

He answered and said, "But I see four men unbound, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods."

When was the last time you had walked through a 'fire' unhurt? Do you realize that if your heart is pure like Daniels was in the midst of testing, the Lord will deliver you?

The only thing we have to fear is denying our God in the hour of testing. We can be confident that even if we are faithless, He will remain faithful. If we deny Him, He will deny us the scriptures say. We have an obligation as sons and daughters of the King, to honor and follow Him even through the fire. I believe that we will walk through the fire and not be burned. Be confident today that God is on your side if you are willing no matter what the cost to honor and follow Him. We will go through storms, we will go through fire, we will go through hardship and trial. Be encouraged friends, He is with us.

Undo the oppressing bundles

"Is not this rather the fast that I have chosen? Loose the bands of wickedness, undo the bundles that oppress, let them that are broken go free, and break asunder every burden. Deal thy bread to the hungry, and bring the needy and the harbourless into thy house; when thou shalt see one naked, cover him, and despise not thy own flesh. Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thy health shall speedily arise, and thy justice shall go before thy face, and the glory of the lord shall gather thee up." Isaias 58:6-8I have chosen a rather unique and rare version for this mornings scripture focus.  I like the way this version is written.  I am reminded today that our Christianity boils down to two things: loving Jesus, and loving our neighbor.  We know who Jesus is and we try to love Him with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength.

Who is our neighbor?  Is it the one who lives next door to your house who you occasionally say a quick hello to? Is  it also the ones that you see who are in need and lack the very essential components of food, shelter, and clothing?  Is it the one who is oppressed by demons, and strung high and dry on every form of drug or alcohol?  Is it the old lady that you see everyday in the grocery store who graciously checks you out, knowing that if it was not for her minimum wage job she would go hungry?  Yes, and yes.  It is all of the above to only name a few.  

As Christ followers and Christ-(likers) we are called to faith and action.  We love not with our words, but with our hands and our feet.  We love by caring for, helping those, reaching out to, and embracing all who are lonely and void of love and hope.  Today I am challenged by this reality once again.  All life boils down to how well we love and how loud we love.  Love wins in the end, so love like never before.  Maybe you will entertain angels unaware?

Fully Devoted

42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.
43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles.
44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common.
45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.
46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts,
47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. Acts 2

Four things that the early church fully devoted themselves to: teaching, fellowship, communion, and prayer. These four things were the antidote to revival breaking out, lives being saved and set free. They were of the same mind and spirit and the unity was a reality that demanded a response. Whenever there is full devotion and full unity, God will respond. It is the thing that draws Him to move more than any other thing. Signs and wonders were released through the apostles and all were stunned and in awe of what God was doing through their fellowship.

Could it be that we have forsaken the power of simplicity and unity in our fellowships? Could it be that we have traded the true unity and devotion for man made programs and structures that don't bring real change? Are we willing to empty ourselves to the point that we consider everything secondary
to Christ and His will being done?

I believe that the church has to change in order to embrace and receive what God desires to give and do. There is a fellowship that is more concerned with unity, love, truth, power, change, and freedom rather than empty and powerless programs. People are longing to really connect with God and with one another. There is a hunger to do church differently, better and more authentic. I believe the example that we see in Acts is a foretaste of what God desires to restore and redeem in His bride today. Let us be fully devoted to His word, to fellowship, breaking of bread, and most importantly prayer. Prayer is the backbone that keeps us in check and right posture.

Silent...

I have been thinking
lately about the silent cries
that the majority do not hear
but One always hears and never forgets
I have been thinking
lately about the silent tears
that most do not see
but One always sees and wipes them away
I have been thinking
lately about the silent fears
that some and all carry through the years
but One always says, "My perfect love casts out all fear"
I have been thinking
lately about the silent sins
that everyone struggles in
but One always seems to forgive
I have been thinking
lately about the silent pain
that so many people live under
but One always longs to heal
I have been thinking
lately about the King of Kings
the Lord of Lords
The Great I Am
The Almighty God
The Strong Deliverer
The Rock of Salvation
The Beginning and the End
The Savior of the world
The Great Physician
He is never silent.

Faith in your shoes...

The journey is long and painful at times
But with the right shoes it can make a difference
You cross one mountain to discover another even higher
A valley is always waiting at the bottom of the mountain
With the right shoes you can skip and scale, run and glide
You wont really notice the wear and tear when you look back
Faith in your shoes...
They seem to get you through
The secret is not really in your shoes, but in the steps that you take
Faith, feet, and shoes...will get you there
One step in front of the other
Just don't stop, or don't look back for long
Forward moving, knees bending, footsteps sending
You higher and further than you have been before
Opportunities anticipating, trials awaiting, both keep me moving forward
Not to give up, not to let go...

Extravagant Worship

Our sole purpose in life is to glorify God and make Him known. A lifetime can easily be filled up doing this, which spills into eternity. When a vision of the Almighty is captured in the heart of man and woman, they are changed forever. A vision of His beauty, His holiness, His splendor, His power and love become our focus in praising the Creator.

We must not hold back our worship, neither in corporate gatherings, or the secret place where it's just God and I. He desires to see His people worship Him with extravagance. Abandonment to God, passion for God, hunger and thirst after Him alone, in spirit and truth, and always in true freedom.

I encourage you today to worship Him throughout your day. Are you needing breakthrough? Are you needing an answer? Are you waiting for deliverance? Are you in a dire situation? Then worship God with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength. Linger in His presence until your heart and His are one. He desires to tell you how much He loves you and what He feels about you. He is the extravagant God. Everything about Him is wild and real. Jump in the river that will never run dry. Holy is the Lord and worthy to be praised.

Oh Thirsty Soul

1 As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God.
2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God? Psalm 42:1-2

Have you ever experienced a deep thirst where you felt like you were "dying" to drink something? Have you ever been so hungry that your whole body was weak, aching, and weary? Most of us in the west probably have not because of the abundance of food and drink that is available.

Spiritually speaking I have felt and experienced extreme thirst and hunger at times. I have been on my knees crying out to God for more of His presence, power, and love in my life. I have felt the reality of being in a dry and weary land where there is a lack of water, sometimes the greatest lack has been in my own soul. Hunger and thirst are a gift from God. If you are hungry for God and you can't live without Him, then you are blessed. If your body aches for the presence of the living God then count it a great joy.

We are living in times where most around us do not even consider the eternal God, much less hunger or thirst for Him. Never loose your hunger and your thirst. You will be empowered to do great exploits through this gift. Out of this place you will see healing and deliverance come forth. You will prophesy in power and souls will be impacted for the kingdom. Our great reward is Jesus Christ and He alone.

Am I not Faithful?

Has the Lord not promised that He would be Faithful to His children?  Is He not the Good Shepherd that watches over the needs of His flock?  Does He not tell us not to worry about what we will eat, drink, or wear?  I tell you that He is Faithful, He is the Faithful One...no one is like Him. 

Today if you are struggling understanding God's Faithfulness and believing that He is going to catch you when you fall, then let me remind you of the scriptures..."He promises to work everything together for the good for those that love Him and are called according to His purposes"...and "He who began a good work in you is Faithful unto completing that work".  Do not give up, do not lose sight.  Hold on your deliverance is coming.

Dreams and Visions

14 For God speaks in one way, and in two, though man does not perceive it.
15 In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on men, while they slumber on their beds,
16 then he opens the ears of men and terrifies them with warnings,
17 that he may turn man aside from his deed and conceal pride from a man;
18 he keeps back his soul from the pit, his life from perishing by the sword. Job 33:15-18

How many realize that God speaks in many ways? Did he not speak through the still small voice? Did he not speak through Balaam's donkey? Has he not spoken through a burning bush? What about a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night? God is always speaking, are we listening?

In this passage God is clearly saying that He speaks in dreams and visions in the night. Why? He opens mens ears to warn them, turn them from sin and pride, and give them direction to name a few. There are many in the Muslim world who have had dreams of a man clothed in white, Jesus who has come to them. Many are coming to salvation through a dream or vision. People who are lost need to experience and encounter Gods power in a way that will captivate and draw them in to Gods truth and love. In some ways in places where there are no believers and no word of God, a dream might be the only means to a person seeing the truth. The truth is that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and this will set them
Free. Countless unseen and unheard testimonies exist right now of how many a Muslim or Hindu have come to salvation through a dream or vision.

Of course we all have had off the wall dreams and ones that don't make any sense. Most of the time you can ignore those ones and just move on. You will know when a dream is from God, though you might not know the full interpretation of that dream. Daniel in the bible had the gift of interpreting dreams. There are Godly men and women today that also carry this gift who can help bring revelation and truth to complex and intricate God dreams.

All I want to say is ask God for His dreams and do not despise them. It might be a way He is wanting to speak and tell you something. Be blessed today.

Stand Firm

Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Ephesians 6:13

This verse sums up what should be our day to day, moment by moment routine. Most Christians live as if they were not in a spiritual war, and therefore do not seriously put on the armor that is needed to resist the enemies and warfare that looms constantly. The only way to fully withstand the evil day is by putting on all the full armor of God. Standing firm without wavering, with the armor of God, will be our only real source of victory and deliverance.

We were born into war. This is reality folks. You were not born into heaven yet. The hobbits in the Shire had to realize this as they journeyed outside their comfortable, beautiful boundary of The Shire. We as well, If we desire to produce fruit and be effective ministers of the gospel of Jesus Christ, must be prepared for battle. Day by day there are casualties of this spiritual war that we are in. Those defeated by doubt, depression, fear, suicide, sin, addictions, hatred, anger, bitterness, disunity, discord, darkness, and death(to name a few).

We must rise up O bride of Christ and take what is rightfully ours, that is to be fully prepared for the day of battle and having all the armor and weapons of warfare that God gives. We do not fight against flesh and blood, remember that dearly. So wherever you are today, rejoice in the Lord. Set your heart and mind on Christ. Be eager and sober and alert. Stand strong, stand watch. Do not let your guard down. Be blessed.

Psalm 91

1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."
3 For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence.
4 He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.
5 You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day,
6 nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday.
7 A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.
8 You will only look with your eyes and see the recompense of the wicked.
9 Because you have made the LORD your dwelling place- the Most High, who is my refuge-
10 no evil shall be allowed to befall you, no plague come near your tent.
11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.
12 On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.
13 You will tread on the lion and the adder; the young lion and the serpent you will trample underfoot.
14 "Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name.


If you are one that holds fast to the Lord, that loves Him with all your heart, soul, mind and strength...He promises to deliver and protect you. This is really good news. We desperately need His deliverance and protection. We are living in a war zone, spiritually. The enemy of our souls is constantly on the prowl seeking to devour whomever He can, but especially those believers that are weak, vulnerable, and alienated from the body of Christ. We must hold fast with everything we have to see the glory of God in our midst. We must decrease and He must increase. There is no other way.

Do not fear no matter what may come in order to tempt you to retreat in fear. Perfect Love casts out fear. God will be our protector and our deliverer. It does not mean that we won't go through trial and tribulation, persecution or distress. It means that in our darkest hour He will deliver us. Praise God!

True Reformation

The life of John Rankin is evidence that when Heaven touches earth in revival, it creates something inside a person—a vision of how God made the world to be and a cry to take part in the restoration of all things, until a day “when liberty shall be universal.” Encountering the living God and receiving a fresh revelation of His heart both give us a greater hunger for freedom in our own lives and require us to “set the captives free.” This appetite drives us past the cultural norms and fuels us with supernatural courage to spurn the persecution that comes from those maintaining the status quo. Revival ignites life in people to press against the limitations and boundaries of society. It calls to the deepest parts of mankind and screams “Freedom!” so loudly that the same cry comes out of our mouths. Revival launches revolution and revolutions initiate reformation. (Culture of Honor-Danny Silk)

Reformation is the result of revival and revolution. It is about seeing the captives set free and ruined for a life in God. We are after heaven not just touching earth, but heaven invading and inhabiting earth. As those who proclaim a message of freedom and power, we must not forget that all our lives should be an uphill journey to creating places and spaces for people to encounter Gods great love and mercy. We need revival in our lives, communities, cities, and nations. This revival, which is really just hearts set ablaze with Jesus, will spurn reformation. Christ will rule and reign over every heart, soul, and mind. This is the ultimate reformation when all are under the influence and power of the Holy Spirit.

A cage-less Lion

'The church is a living system of intelligent, adaptable, creative, self-organizing, and meaning-seeking people, who may feel confined by something that should be releasing and empowering them to be the best they can be. Everyone hates to be confined. It destroys the soul and kills any initiative and creative desire'. (Graham Cooke-Permission Granted: to do church differently in the 21st century)

The church has to often been a place that has confined its people in cages and boxes that are not of God, but rather man made traditions and by less. I have a burden to see the lion released from the cage and set free in that great garden once again where Adam and Eve were free to create, free to be who they were created to be, and free to rule and reign with God.

Truth is we were not meant ever to be confined in a cage. God created us for passion, for adventure, for romance, and to conquer. We are a powerful church meant to take land and expand territory. Now as I write I am saddened that the church is more powerless, like a lion who has lost its roar and fight in some crowded cage. I am deeply disturbed about this because I feel the enemy of our souls has been having the victory mostly in many of the powerless churches. We are content with empty programs, and overfilled bellies. Somehow we believe that this is the normal experience. It could not be further from the truth.

It's about real friendships and relationships, not task oriented functions. Out of trust and friendship will we overcome and conquer. When we are vulnerable and transparent with one another it releases Gods kingdom in ways that cannot happen otherwise. I believe the church is in a critical hour and those that will change and adapt to the winds of the Spirit, will grow and learn to take more land for the kingdom. Those that are unwilling to change will constantly be in a 'caged' cycle of frustration and bitterness. Let us rise up and embrace change. Let us as sons and daughters of God walk in the fullness of all that God has for this generation.

God is wild, untamable, and persistent. He is good, but not always safe. Embrace the danger in loving God wholeheartedly.

Perfected in Weakness

'the following post is written by a good friend of mine whose heart for God is inspiring.'


“Concerning this I entreated the Lord three times that it might depart from me...” 2 Cor. 12:8

Have you ever been there?Afflicted,worn out, running ragged? The apostle Paul can relate. Besides the 39 lashes 5 times, being beaten with rods 3 times, being shipwrecked and spending a day and a night in the sea, Paul had a “thorn in the flesh.” It was a gnawing, obsessive kind of frustration—have you been there?

In order to live abundantly like Paul did, we need discernment. We need to grow up in the faith and in our intimacy with Christ. What will do this? Prayer. Paul said, “three times” he prayed. Does this strike you in any way? He is very intentional about mentioning “three times”. Why not five? Why not ten? Here’s why—after three times God broke through! Jesus Himself, the mighty conquering King said to Paul “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.”

Have you given up praying for God to heal you? Why? Have you despaired? Remember, we always have hope in Christ! Paul prayed until the Lord spoke to Him and taught Him something—that He was not going to heal him this time. God the healer said no. No Paul. No. Let that sink in…

Paul goes on to teach us how he responded. It was interesting. Not angry, not bitter, not losing his faith in God’s power to heal. He learned to say yes to God’s no. Listen to these words...

'Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.'

So how about you? What are you suffering for Christ’s sake? Have you talked with Him? Have you worked through it? Did the Holy Spirit give your heart a yes, or a no?

Keep pressing in to Him. Don’t give up! God will give you discernment if you ask. And when the time comes you will know if it is for Christ’s sake that you have suffered; that you have shared in His suffering, and you will be like Him. O, to be like Him! May we ever be.

Filled with God

"You missionaries who are going to India and Africa and China and other places have a wonderful gospel to take to these people who know nothing about God; a gospel of salvation and healing and deliverance. If you want to know how it works, look at Paul among the Barbarians; when the viper came out of the fire and lit on Paul's hand, they watched to see him swell up and die, but when he neither swelled up nor died, they said, 'these men are gods'. When you go forth to these dark lands where the Holy Ghost has sent you to preach the unsearchable riches of Christ, to loose the bands of Satan and set the captives free, be sure you can say, 'The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,' remember that Christ is made unto us not only salvation but wisdom and redemption. Filled with God, yes, filled with God, pardoned and cleansed and filled with God. Filled with God leaves no room for doubting and fearing. We have no idea of all that means, to be filled with God. It means emptied of self. Do you know what it means to be filled with God? It means you have no fear, for when you are filled with God you are filled with love, and perfect love casts out fear." Smith Wigglesworth

This is a beautiful reality that we can be filled with the Holy Spirit of God. This means to be controlled by and powered by the Almighty. The only source of truth, love and power. His power is unsearchable and yet the Holy Spirit resided in weak being like you and I. This is truly amazing and astounding. You are a powerhouse walking around if you are controlled by the Holy Spirit of God. There is no room for fear or punishment. Today let faith arise in you child of God. Do not doubt His power and freedom in your life. We are called as sons of God filled with truth and love. Thank you Jesus. Thank you Holy Spirit. You are power. You are freedom. You are amazing.

Torn in order to Heal

"Come, let us return to the LORD; for he has torn us, that he may heal us; he has struck us down, and he will bind us up." Hosea 6:1

There are countless distractions in any given day to keep us from returning wholeheartedly to the Lord. There are so many thing that try to distract us from our first love. Remember the first time that God showed up and revealed His great love for you? How did you feel? How did you respond? Remember the days when you realized how great a sinner you were and how great a price Jesus paid to set you free? I want to return to the Lord and remember the love that He has for me and I have for Him. I am not ashamed as a man to say that I am a lover of God. There is no greater love or experience on this earth than to be a lover of God.

If you have been torn in any way by Him, He promises to heal you. Often times the tearing is a pruning process likened to John 15 that if you are a fruitful branch he will prune you to be even more fruitful. If you have been torn by the world, yourself, sin or any other hindrance...then He is more than able and qualified to bind you together again. He longs to do this. He is such a good father. If you have been struck down it is for the sake of being build back up. The Lord only wounds so that He can fully heal. He is a healer and a deliverer. He desires His best for our lives. Hold on and do not give up. You are more than the sum of your thought and emotions. You are more than the world will give you credit for. You are beloved royal sons and daughters.

Culture of honor

Honor one another above yourselves. (Rom. 12:10b)

I believe that one of the greatest ways to demonstrate the kingdom of God is through honoring and loving one another. I am speaking about those that are saved. If our love for our brothers and sisters is pure, real, authentic, sacrificial, vulnerable, transparent, and vibrant...then our message will be seen as real, pure, authentic and vibrant to the world around us. There is a direct cause and effect. Jesus said in John 17 that we would be brought to complete unity so the world would know that God sent Jesus.

A culture of love and honor is what God is after in every church, city, and nation. Believers that understand the importance of radical commitment to walking out true love and honor. We are called to help bring freedom to the captives. We are called to be a light in the darkness. We are called to love one another without hypocrisy, sincerely, in the truest sense of the word. A challenge indeed we face today with so many so called Christians slandering one another, in complete disunity and discord. Can you really be considered a child of God in this manner? According to 1 John 4, I would say no. "Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love, does not know God". This is black and white.

Let's create a culture of love and honor in the way we treat one another. Let us set a standard so high that even the ones who would mock you most, would not be able to mock your genuine love and honor of one another. It is the thing that everyone longs for anyways, to be loved and known in the deepest way. Church as we know it, or have known it will change. It will not survive the coming storms and difficulties unless we change and become true sons and daughters of God.

And they were all Healed...

12 Now many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon's Portico.
13 None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high esteem.
14 And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women,
15 so that they even carried out the sick into the streets and laid them on cots and mats, that as Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on some of them.
16 The people also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those afflicted with unclean spirits, and they were all healed. Acts 5:12-16

I love the book of Acts because it is a blue print in my opinion for how we as Christians today are to walk out our faith, in love and power. There was great unity among the believers. The fear of the Lord was among them compelling them to be selfless servants towards one another. Great miracles were being done regularly as a part of their gatherings, and this just proved or backed up their message about Jesus Christ. Many were being added daily to the kingdom. Those who were sick and afflicted with demons were being healed and set free. It says that ALL were healed who came to them. This is the heart of God, to heal ALL who come to Him. He desires to demonstrate His great love and power to each and every soul. Can you imagine what a unified church would look like in your city? How would this impact your community? People being saved regularly, all the sick being healed. Beautiful, simply supernatural.

I am hungry for this kind of life. This is what I dream of to be honest. I want the real, the authentic, the raw power of broken messed up lives being saved, healed, and delivered. I long to encounter Jesus in community with other believers who are pursuing the same thing. Let's lay down our lives to see this releases wherever we are at. If every gathering place of believers became a place of encounter, a place of salvation then there would be great mercy and grace to cover all of our mistakes, failures, weaknesses, and sin. We are all broken people who are being saved daily through walking out our salvation with fear and trembling. Let your vision be lifted higher today than it has been before.

Stone throwers...

And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her."

I believe that we are in a time where we can no longer afford as believers to judge and condemn a brother. The church is sadly often referred to as, "the only place that kills its wounded". I believe that the church needs to be known as a place that loves and attends to the wounded in ways that brings great healing and freedom. Jesus knew that the heart of the Pharisees was simply to destroy and degrade the 'adulterous' woman. Was she guilty? Sure she was guilty. Are each and every one of us guilty in the same way? Yes we are. For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. The heart of the father is to restore, release, renew, rejuvenate, redeem, and deliver. Jesus brought freedom to this woman in her most dark and convicted state. He simply said 'go and sin no more'. So we need to not be stone throwers but rather heart catchers. Catching the heart of God for the people He has created and died for.

The Prospering Soul

1 Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
2 but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. Psalm 1:1-3

Everyone wants to prosper right? Yet few are willing to pay the price to truly prosper from God's perspective. Many think prospering is in wealth, riches, and fame. We live in a culture that chases the 'American dream', and we are told that this is what life is all about. Many are in hot pursuit of a bigger house, faster car, and fatter paychecks. This is not inherently wrong or sinful, but as believers we need to understand what true prospering is all about.

Meditating on Gods laws day and night are prerequisites to prospering and being a fruitful tree. Delighting fully in the Lord and His ways are the antidote to successful living. Walking in truth, light and love are the prescription for true prospering and freedom. Until our focus in fully on pleasing the Lord then we will not walk in the fullness of what it means to prosper.

Remember that the kingdom of God is an upside down kingdom. If you want to be first then you gotta be last. If you want to live then you have to die. If you want to get ahead then you have to lay it all down. Humility, love, sacrifice, and persevering are a few of the traits that mark the truly prosperous soul.

Certainty.

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Phillipians 1:6

Has a good work been started in your life through the amazing grace of God? If so, then you can be assured that whatever faith has been planted, whatever love has been sown, whatever truth has been invested; He will see you through until the day of Jesus Christ. Keep holding on and pressing into know God and His kingdom. We cannot afford to be lazy or slothful in this hour. We are living in a time that requires much focus and discipline in order to stay in tune with the voice and will of the Father. Do not loose heart today, stay in the game the fourth quarter is already underway. Soon the game will be over and we will rejoice in the victory of Jesus Christ overcoming death, sin, and darkness forever. We will reign and rule with Him in His kingdom. This is good stuff. Be blessed!

Empowering People

I have been thinking about this theme lately of empowering people.  The question that I have been asking is: "what is it that truly empowers people to freedom and responsibility?"  I am speaking mostly of leaders in the church, and in my generation.  I believe that each generation has a different method, culture, DNA, etc that will either enslave people or empower them.  I believe without a doubt in my mind that the heart of the Father is always to empower His people and give them true freedom that creates great responsibility and ownership. 

We as leaders have to realize that people are not meant to be controlled, never.  Our responsibility as leaders is to help people realize their potential and destiny in God.  We release them as FREE sons and daughters to be powerful people.  We do not manipulate or control them in any way.  Honor is empowering people, not controlling them.  The only control that I am responsible for is called SELF-control, not other control.  Honor and humility is giving strength and a voice to the individual, therefore giving them confidence that they are influential and powerful and created to make a difference!  Yes, this is the key we are created to make a difference in this world for the Kingdom of God.  Are you with me?

You see, Jesus Christ never controlled hearts and minds.  He allowed people to make their own choices whether or not they would love him and lay their lives down for Him.  Take for example the guys on the road to emmaus.  The scripture says, "did not our hearts burn within us as we walked and talked with that man (my paraphrase)?"  You see people were precisely drawn to Jesus because He empowered them to think, create, wonder, and be influential and change makers. 

Therefore friends, in whatever context you have influence today I beg you not to control those 'under' you, for they are really UNDER God and not you.  Would you honor them and love them for who they are created to be and give them the benefit of the doubt when they fail or make mistakes.  If you are a leader in any way, whether at work or in the church...realize that your leadership is a means to servant hood.  Honor created freedom and enables for great success!  Yippie!

The Day of our King

For from the rising of the sun to its setting my name will be great among the nations, and in every place incense will be offered to my name, and a pure offering. For my name will be great among the nations, says the LORD of hosts. Malachi 1:11

Rejoice people who love God and all who praise the name of the great King. He will surely come and reveal His mighty power and glory. There will be a day when all our waiting will pay off. What you do not see now with your physical eyes, you will fully see when the God of the nations is revealed to every tribe and tongue. In every place His name will be great!

I can't wait for the day when God will rule and reign forever. Darkness and evil will be put to death forever and no longer will the god of this world, Lucifer have any power to deceive, manipulate, torture, and kill. He will be silenced forever and his power stripped from him. Holiness and righteousness will be our portion and food. Light will shine always, there will not be a dark day on the horizon. Praise him forever and ever. Shout aloud that this King is coming and will reign.

Can you tell I am excited about this reality? I cannot loose focus even though it is easy to do sometimes. His promises are true so what have I to fear or question. God is true and every man a liar. I put my hope in God, not any man. He will surely come and open the door and welcome all who love Him to be with him forever. Open the door. We are waiting.

Psalm 18

31 For who is God, but the LORD? And who is a rock, except our God?-
32 the God who equipped me with strength and made my way blameless.
33 He made my feet like the feet of a deer and set me secure on the heights.
34 He trains my hands for war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
35 You have given me the shield of your salvation, and your right hand supported me, and your gentleness made me great.
36 You gave a wide place for my steps under me, and my feet did not slip. Psalm 18:31-36

This is food for today. I feast on the goodness of God in the land of the living. David was a man who understood Gods heart and was after Gods heart. I desire nothing more than to be a man who is after the heart of God. That is all I want to be known for, because everything else comes under that umbrella. You too press on to know God, be diligent to seek Him and He will be found by you. Do not give up looking, seeking, knocking, waiting, longing, anticipating, surrendering, and loving this incredible unseen God who holds the keys to life! He is worthy and worthy to be praised.

Love One Another

7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.
8 Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.
9 In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him.
10 In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.
12 No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.
1 John 4:7-12

These are some of the most loaded verses in all of scripture. I love this passage. It really sums up everything really well. God is love, whoever has been born again also loves, therefore let us love one another.

It is through loving one another that the love of God is perfected in us. This is the evidence if one is really saved or not. God abides in love, and therefore abides in us when we love. It is very simple yet one of the most difficult areas for a lot of the church to grasp for some reason. Why is there so much slander, gossip, back stabbing, and hypocrisy? Why do Christians not just simply love one another as they are commanded? God initiated love period. We did not. God sent His Son as a propitiation for our sins. Only through true repentance and reconciliation can we love God and our brother. Love does not just happen, at least the kind of love that is lasting, enduring, sincere, and eternal. We need a revolution of this Kind of Love in the church today. The kind of love that heals broken relationships, that forgives past hurts, that restores marriages, that considers another better than self. By this kind of love will the world see that God is real and that God is love. The stakes are high friends, we are responsible for bearing fruit through loving God and loving one another.

Injustice in the Land

He was amazed to see that no one intervened to help the oppressed. So he himself stepped in to save them with his strong arm, and his justice sustained him.  Is 59:16

Injustice has always been around ever since Adam and Eve fell short of perfection and destroyed the human race forever.  We are living in a time where injustice in my opinion has skyrocketed.  The issues of modern day slavery, human trafficking, abortion, oppression, genocide, and innocent killings to name a few...are on the forefront of this battle.  We indeed are in a spiritual battle, Satan knows his time is short.  The bible says that he is a roaring lion seeking to devour as many as he can.  As Jesus return nears we can expect injustice to increase and abound in every way.  What should our response be?

Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause. Is 1:17

Thus says the Lord: Do justice and righteousness, and deliver from the hand of the oppressor him who has been robbed. And do no wrong or violence to the resident alien, the fatherless, and the widow, nor shed innocent blood in this place. Jeremiah 22:3

Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute.  Psalm 82:3

These are just a few scripture verses that should help us in our response to injustice.  There are many more, but for the sake of time I will just name a few.  We as believers must have no excuse, we are called to correct oppression, and bring justice to the fatherless, the widow, the orphan and the oppressed.  It is up to us to become well aware of who the fatherless, orphan, widow, and oppressed are that we might help.  I urge you to become aware of human trafficking in your city or nation, find out how you can be a voice to stop this injustice.  Let us love mercy, and do justly!

Prayer:  Lord Jesus give me the strength and ability today to fight for justice.  Let me be a voice for those that have no voice.  Bring forth your word and your power in Jesus name. 

The "entitlement" factor

You know the last time I read the gospels it seems like Jesus said that he came to serve and give his life
as a ransom for many. Jesus also said that unless you become like one of these little children then you have no place in my kingdom. Its an upside down kingdom, not the kingdom of this world.  Jesus who is our Supreme High Priest (there is none greater who we are called to follow) set a perfect example of what it means to be a disciple.

Why is it that in so many "Christian" institutions, or churches people who have certain credentials or degrees feel they are entitled to be treated differently or better than their "lowly" brothers?  Oh they would never say it flat out, with their shiny smile and 3 piece suit...but inwardly and their actions outwardly would deem obvious they are bluffing.  Why is it that people are treated lesser than another in the church.  James clearly stated that GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVORITISM, in any way!  Most of the church would treat the "rich man" who walks in with fine clothing and an expensive car, with a fat checkbook much differently than the "poor man" who clearly has nothing to offer.  This is NOT THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST, but clearly an attitude of the world.  I am saddened than many in Christian seminaries and institutions are treating their fellow brothers and sisters in Christ this way.

I do not want to point the finger or slander with my tongue or thoughts, but there are many "Pharisees" in today's church that seriously need to be humiliated and disgraced in the same way that Jesus the "Righteous Rebel" called them out for.  I will be the first to admit in my lowly position that I need to be humiliated at times in order to repent and return wholeheartedly to the true gospel, not a "man made tickling of the ears whatever you want to hear" gospel, but we need to REPENT and RETURN to truth.

It is an upside down Kingdom, and the only way to be FIRST is to be LAST.  I think we are in need of some serious change of hearts and humility.  Rusty, broken pipes with holes in them...a refection of our heart and attitudes.

Living Water

In that day the mountains will drip with sweet wine, and the hills will flow with milk. Water will fill the stream beds of Judah, and a fountain will burst forth from the Lords temple...Joel 3:18

These pictures were taken from my trip to visit a dear friend in Israel back in 2004. It was spring time when I went and I was amazed with how much water was flowing. Water speaks of life and Jesus is the living water that never runs dry. His promises are true and they will come to pass. There will be streams and raging rivers in the desert and dry places.

For the rain he sends demonstrates His faithfulness. Once more the autumn rains will come, as well as the Spring rains. Joel 2:23

Father of Lights

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no shadow or variation due to change."
James 1:17

This is another one of my all time favorite verses. I believe it sums up the nature of God so perfectly and precisely. What is your idea of God, really? If you are nakedly honest before God how do you see him? Do you see him as a good and perfect gift giver, or more of a negative and mad ruler?

Trials and difficult circumstances can often reveal things in our heart about what we think about God. "Where was God when my wife died?", or "why did He allow my son to suffer so much?" why does God feel so distant sometimes when we go through difficulty? Wasn't it Jesus Himself that said, "My God, my God why have you forsaken me?" In His most difficult and trying moments of His earthly life He felt abandoned and betrayed by His father. Was He abandoned and betrayed by Abba Father? Certainly not. The circumstances could lead one to think that, but the truth always outweighs the circumstances in the moment, no matter how difficult or trying. It was exactly the opposite, for God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever would believe in Jesus would not die but have everlasting life. Amazing indeed. It was because of love for all humanity that Christ went to the cross and died, the Father knew exactly what He was doing.

The God we worship is indeed the Father of lights in whom there is no variation or changing. He is not like us, we are fickle in every way. Up and down emotionally. God is constant in love and truth and power. He is a giver of good gifts, He loves you dearly today. Do not forget or neglect this truth. Whatever trial you are facing remember that God is there with you to face whatever darkness you are facing. He does not promise to rescue us from every trial and tribulation, but does promise to be with us and strengthen us to get through them.

Free People

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
(1 John 4:18 NIV)

Thomas Jefferson is credited with saying, “Free people are the most difficult to lead.” It is extremely pertinent for church leaders, because free people are precisely the group they are called to lead.

Those that are not bound by religion and rules, control and manipulation, are indeed free. The one that realizes that it was for freedom that he or she was created will accomplish great things in life. Too often there is control and a heavy burden put on those who are in the church, usually by leaders who think they have to maintain the 'rules' rather than release people in freedom. When I speak of freedom I am not talking about freedom to sin or indulge in the flesh, for that is no freedom at all, only bondage. I am talking about freedom that the blood of Jesus paid for. Freedom to love with all our hearts, freedom to give, freedom to be who we are created to be. Freedom from the religion of rules and regulations. God has standards and free people know that true freedom comes with being trusted and released to walk out there destiny in God.

Empowering men and women to greatness in God is really what it's all about right? No longer must we carry a heavy yoke set by others with how we are to live and move and have our being. The Holy Spirit himself is the author of freedom and the giver of Life. There is power and responsibility in knowing what freedom represents and means in our lives. We must grab hold of it and not let go, be like a child and run into the arms of a loving Father who calls us His own.

Be free, be yourself, be extravagant.

Worthy is the Lamb

"Then I looked again and I heard the voices of thousands and millions of angels around the throne and of the living beings and the elders. And they sang in a mighty chorus: Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing.". Revelation 5:11-12

Can you imagine this scene described in the verse above? Imagination and wonder is a gift we have to tap into when we think and dream about heaven. Thousands and millions of angels and living creatures around the throne of God declaring how Awesome and Holy He is. No movie could ever capture this scene in all it's glory. There is no technology to recreate what is happening for all eternity before the presence of the Living God.

One day we will see this reality with eternal eyes, for those who believe in the Lamb who was slain for the sins of the world. The bible says that if you believe in your heart and confess with your mouth then you will be saved. Nothing else is worth living for compared to the riches of knowing Christ Jesus. I must stay focused on this every day. Time is passing very quickly and soon we will become eternal beings. I will be a part of the multitudes singing out,'worthy is the Lamb who was slain'.

Angels All Around

"For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone". Psalm 91:11-12

Yesterday afternoon I got home from work and the kids were playing as they usually do. My wife and I were spending a few minutes reading individually in different rooms. It was a normal late afternoon at our house. Dinner was on the stove cooking and everyone was occupied with something to do. I was out in the living room when I heard my wife scream in our back recreation room by the kitchen. I then heard an awful sound of my little two year old daughter tumbling down the steps to our basement. My heart jumped and I ran towards the stairs. My wife had seen her half way down and hit the floor. I didn't know what to expect when i got to her. Somehow the latch to the door was not closed properly and when she leaned against it, it gave and opened up sending her down a long flight of wooden stairs.

She was crying and obviously in a bit of shock. To our amazement after a few minutes of tears and being held by mom, and us carefully checking her over...she got up and began to play again. I just started praising Jesus and thanking him for protecting her, and keeping her from what could have been a very bad situation.

He will command his angels concerning my daughter. This really struck home. I knew that she had an angel protecting her and helping her safely land from those long and hard wooden stairs. God is in the business of watching over His children. He loves my daughter so much more than even I do, and in an instance when neither my wife or I could protect her, He sent an Angel to guard over her. I am amazed at the goodness of God.

Remember today that He watches over those he loves.

Wildfire

I am sure everyone has been aware of the fires that have been out of control in Colorado this past week. It really seems so surreal seeing those images of the mountains on fire outside of Colorado Springs. I pray earnestly that the Lord would have mercy and send rain so that no more damage is done.

The bible says that God is a consuming fire. A wildfire is a consuming fire. It consumes everything in its path. I am not one who is saying that God caused the fire, I am just drawing a contrast between a wildfire in the natural and the Consuming Fire in the character of God. Why would God be in the business of consuming or burning up things? Love. He loves so intensely and seriously that anything that stands in the way of love has to be burned or consumed. He created us to love Him and be loved by Him, but when we abandon that love or turn to lesser pleasures or worthless idols, He must act. God is in control, He is not a bystander or One who sits on the sidelines to watch the game. He knows how things must work. In order for us to be saved and have eternal life then we must love God with all of our hearts, soul, mind and strength. He will burn up all impurity, sin, and darkness on the earth once and for all. He will also allow His consuming love to burn up things in our lives that hinder us or damage us in any way.

He is not a God who punishes. He is a God who loves. Because He loves, He disciplines. Would you allow your child to play with fire at the age of four if you knew full well that it would hurt or possibly kill him? No. That is the nature and character of the Father of lights. The heavenly Father loves with power and perfection. He is a wildfire that no one can contain. There is no power greater than the power of love, genuine heaven touching earth kind of love.

A baby's smile

Heaven touches earth when my little 2 month old looks at me and smiles.  Its like the angels in heaven are all gathered around when that happens.  I am reminded that out of the mouth of infants and babes God has ordained praise.  He loves the little ones.  I am also reminded that we must fight for our children and babies.  Every baby should have a chance to look up to there dad and smile.  A smile represents safety, security, comfort, acceptance, and love. 

Fight for your babies in prayer today.  They need us as fathers and mothers to stand for them.  I love my children deeply, they mean more than anything to me. 

There shall come dangerous times...

"Know this also, that in the last days, shall come dangerous times.  Men shall be lovers of themselves, covetous, haughty, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, wicked, without affection, without peace, slanderers, incontinent, unmerciful, without kindness, traitors, stubborn, puffed up, and lovers of pleasures more than of God; having an appearance indeed of godliness, but denying the power thereof.  Now these avoid."  2 Timothy 3:1-5

Clearly, we are living in turbulent times.  Times are only going to get more difficult as the days grow darker before the return of the Lord.  Yes, in fact Jesus will return...but before He does have you read the book lately?  Its not going to get easier folks, sorry to burst your bubble.  We must wake up and smell the coffee, but not stop there.  You might disagree with me, and that is okay.  If you disagree with God's word that is between You and the Creator.  All I am saying is be alert and sober and PRAY.  Timothy was told to avoid anyone who fit into the category of the list described above.  We too must be light in the darkness but not blend in to the darkness.  There must be a distinction if we are children of God.  There is no middle ground. 

Be encouraged to fight the good fight of faith, and do not give up. Not now, not never.  Now is the time to hold fast to what you believe no matter what comes our way.  Be strong and courageous friends. 

Purity + Conscience = Sincere Faith

The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
1 Timothy 1:5 ESV

I have goosebumps just thinking about this verse. This says so much to me and it touches the depths of my heart and soul. The aim or the goal is love. It's always the charge, love. But how do we live out the charge of love?

A. Pure heart

What does it mean to have a pure heart? What does it look like in a culture that is saturated with impurity? Is it possible to truly have a pure heart? Only Christ can give us a pure heart. Only He can wash away the stains of sin and defilement that we have so many times walked in. I long to have this pure heart, I desire purity in every way. Pure thoughts, pure motives, pure desires, pure love, pure truth, pure everything. Knowing Jesus is having and maintaining purity. Money cannot buy purity. It comes at a sacrifice and struggle against the flesh and the powers of this age.

B. Good Conscience

Out of a pure heart comes a good conscience. The Holy Spirit in a person is the One to convict us of sin and guide us in truth(John 14). A good conscience is the result of an intimate relationship with God. Walking day to day with a good conscience is freedom that this world does not know or understand. A good conscience comes through knowing that there is a greater path than the path of deceit, hypocrisy, and many other sinful forms and patterns.

C. A Sincere Faith

Paul sums up this verse with the outcome of a pure heart and a good conscience. A sincere faith is the sum of both of those put together. A sincere faith is a genuine faith, one that is without hypocrisy. A real and honest faith is what God desires and requires of His children. He is after sincerity and transparency. He is moved by genuine heart loving action towards one another. Our faith is a moving and action oriented faith. The only faith that will stand is a sincere faith, all other motivations that are not rooted in love and truth and humility will be dismissed. I long for a sincere faith in my everyday encounters with people and hopefully some will see the glory of God in those who live like Jesus.

A Divine Encounter

Yesterday I had one of the strangest encounters that I have maybe ever had. I decided to go to the local Walmart after work around 5 pm. I needed to get some pool supplies for our pool that we had set up over the weekend for the kids. I am kind of new at the whole pool maintenance thing, so I was just staring at the aisle that carried all the supplies wondering which bottle of ph plus or ph minus to get.

I notice a man to the left of me that was also looking at some things. He seemed just as new or ignorant as I was. I decided to strike up a conversation and ask him a few questions hoping that he could answer some things for me. It became evident fairly quickly that he was just as clueless as I was. There was something strangely familiar about this man. It was like I had seen him before in a past lifetime. We both had the same size pool and we were talking about chlorinating tablets and keeping it clean. I said to him,'you know it's funny because as a kid I grew up on a beautiful island and my backyard was the ocean, and here I am trying to figure out how to maintain a 600 gallon pool'. I chuckled and he became silent. I thought maybe I offended him or something. He then asked me what island I grew up on. I said you probably haven't heard of it, Bonaire in the Netherlands Antilles. He asked me what my last name was. He grew silent again and then asked me my parents name. By now we are both feeling like something pretty amazing is happening, like opening a present that you have been waiting for.

'My name is ......', we lived down the street from you on the island and our parents were good friends'. I couldn't believe it. What are the chances of meeting a fellow missionary kid who grew up on the same tiny
Island at the same time over 23 years ago? Two dads standing in the same aisle at a Walmart in Kansas City. He just moved here after retiring from thenAir Force to get his Masters degree at the same seminary that I work at. Bizarre? Strange? Divine. I am looking forward to sitting down with him and catching up and talk about the days on the island that seemed a lifetime ago. I love the surprises that God brings our way. It is very exciting when you live for God because everyday awaits opportunities for a divine encounter. Just had to share. Be blessed.

Of Pastors and Men...

Pastors love people
Pastors feed and nourish the sheep
Pastors lay down their lives for the sheep
Pastors often times give out with no immediate return
Pastors see beauty instead of ashes
Pastors call out who people are and created to be
Pastors create a culture of honor
Pastors see through the exterior and into the heart
Pastors feel and sympathize with those who suffer
Pastors are people, ordinary poeple
who by the grace of God have an amazing calling to build the body
Pastors labor and pour into the harvest
Pastors welcome the wounded and broken
Pastors protect the sheep from wolves
Pastors know when to say yes and when to say no
Pastors are human, not superhuman
Pastors make mistakes, and willingly admit them
Pastors are vulnerable and transparent
Pastors lead by example
Pastors serve and consider themselves second to the flock
Pastors sing over the people the song of Joy
Pastors carry a sense of humor and can laugh at themselves
Pastors are not perfect
Pastors need encouragement from the body
Pastors are dearly loved in the Lords eyes. 

Have you told your pastor how much you appreciate him or her today?  If you do not
have a pastor, then ask for one...or become one.  There are many people without a shepherd.  Thank you Jesus for pastors, and those with a pastors heart.