Not in the Brochure Part II



Caesars Head Bench Mark

Get Away

My original plan for us was to go to certain locations and allow God to speak to us through the words in Psalm 61. We were going to settle this account with God, TODAY. Suzanne was tired of ministry. She had said told me a few times in the past months that she was “done” with ministry. In my mind I was so frustrated with the attempts to develop relationships with churches and people to get involved with as well as operate our ministry that I didn’t want anything to do with people from church any more. We were running on empty.

As we sit down to breakfast I give Suzanne a hint into my plans for the day. For me and her to get  alone with God. After breakfast we drive toward Greenville, South Carolina, remember I was formulating a new plan. We drive a familiar road toward Travelers Rest, South Carolina. Then it came to me. I turned toward a location called “The Pretty Place” located in the foothills of South Carolina and the base of the Western Mountains of North Carolina, a wilderness area of South Carolina with spectacular views and a quiet place for Suzanne and me to get alone with God.

As we drive up the steep, windy road toward my destination I am excited to reveal my plan to my bride and partner in ministry. As we get to the summit we come to the Caesars Head State Park, a 3,200 foot overlook that stands north of Greenville, South Carolina with views as far as the eye can see. We park the car and walk out to the ledge of Caesars’ Head, no one else is there, its 8:30 in the morning. The mist glides over the valley below us and the sky is filled with wisps of clouds.

The first thing Suzanne notices is the wind blowing through the trees in the valley to our right. Across the valley is Table Rock, a sheer cliff face monument 6 miles across the Mountain Bridge Wilderness . It’s an amazing view. This is exactly how I want to start our journey as we repent and listen to Gods voice.

 As we are standing on the massive rock formation I take Suzanne’s hand and begin to explain my purpose for this trip. “We have come along way together” I tell her, tears fill my eyes and hers. “Since we’ve come to Asheville it’s as if we have a target on us and many people who we thought were our friends, including Christians, has taken aim as if we are somehow the enemy.” I explain to her my plan for our day together. “This is a line in the sand for you and me. Today we are going to give everything we are and everything we do to God, in service for Christ, right here and now or we need to quit our ministry and just find a church, settle in and quietly attend each week.”

This is not an ultimatum to God, rather a time of rededication and renewal of our minds and attitudes toward the God we serve and the path Christ has called us to. I read the Outline of my notes from Psalms 61 to her. It is difficult for me to get the words out without my emotions welling up but I read her the words I wrote, “Hear me God, listen to me!”

The Rock is my strength

As we stood on the geological Bench Mark at Creasers Head I read to her my version of Psalms 61. The rock we stood on overlooking that valley, 3,200 feet in the air, I explained that Christ is our rock and foundation, immovable and uncompromising in His love for us. We need to recommit our lives right here, right now in serving our Lord Jesus Christ. Lay out all of our hurts, frustrations, bad feelings, anger and our disobedience on this place. Just as the wind blows in the valley below us, it comes from the East and blows through the trees towards the West and it’s gone. So are our cares if we will let them go and place them in at the foot of the cross and give them to Christ. Now!

From this lonely place, I call to you God, I’m tired of trying to do it my way. Suzanne and I agreed that it was time to stop striving and time to let God take control and lead us forward.

Psalms 46:2-3 says; “Therefore we will fear not, though the earth do change. Verse 3 goes on to say, … Though the mountains tremble with the swelling thereof.”

I translate that to say, God is faithful in a crumbling world. Suzanne and I have seen our world crumble. Our finances and even our many of our relationships have crumbled all while doing Gods will here in Western North Carolina.

As we continue our conversation we walk through a narrow crevice that leads to a trail. The stone rises above us on both sides and is only wide enough for us to pass through sideways. Again, I take the opportunity to share this example of being hemmed in by stone walls on both sides as an example of how we try to do ministry under our own power. It’s a narrow path and limited to our understanding, however, when we release our plans and let Christ have control the plan is now in His hands and we just need to make ourselves available to be used for His purpose.

Sit in Gods space

What is so unique about this time on Caesars head is that we are completely alone. A family comes by with their children for just a few minutes but they continue on the trail. There are no distractions, for the next thirty minutes we are alone at the summit. We stand there and pray, recommitting our lives to Christ.

*Just so you know- The parking lot is about 100 feet away and it is full of people getting ready for hikes and visiting the State Park. However, we are alone; no one comes to the Lookout where we are.

Again I reveal to Suzanne my plan for the day is to get alone with God, as we go about this journey.

We head down to the gift shop and talk to the Ranger for a few minutes and then we depart for our next destination. As we drive towards Greenville Suzanne sees a sign for “Boiled Peanuts”. She doesn’t have many vices but boiled peanuts are one. We stop at a road side store circa, 1975 to find out if this is what she is looking for. The owner gets Suzanne a sample of his recipe and she is in heaven. We continue down the road and she eats boiled peanuts for the next 15 minutes as we travel through Travelers rest, SC.

Lunch is next on the agenda. Find something we haven’t done in a while. I get lost in Greenville for a few minutes but we are back on the road and at our next destination in short order. We end up at Red Robin.

Make Me a Leader By Example

I open my outline again and we begin to talk about our family. Because of the situations we have been in, our ministry is in full view of our children; they have always gone with us. Rodeos, horse shows, concerts and even our church plants, our two children, Devin and Clay, have seen us at work in this ministry. They have also seen how people treat us, the good and the bad. Welcome and betrayed. As Suzanne and I sit there in this noisy burger joint we talk about our attitudes around our children. Many times my anger has got the best of me when friends have let me down or my plans didn’t turnout the way I wanted. Even Suzanne admitted that she is ready to stop any kind of ministry service and just take care of our family.

This is the most troubling of all the topics I had planned for today; being a leader for my family, by my example. Too many times my temper has not been the example of a good and patient Father or a Christ filled man in service for God.

We make a decision to allow Christ to lead us, not to push our way through His will, which is easy to do when you are as tenacious and driven as we are. One thing I’ve learned is planning is good, counting the cost is wise but you can’t out work God. You can keep on going like the Energizer Bunny; God will just stop and wait for you to trip over yourself as you spin out of control. Then you get the message and you gather yourself up and get back to the plan, His plan, not mine.

Remember the conference with Jonathan Falwell? On the last day he discussed a few points about how “Victory” is accomplished in our lives as we go about living out Gods will. They are taken from the example of Ephesians 6:13

·         We Stand on Truth (lots of lies around us)

·         Embrace Righteousness (Protection)

·         Embrace the Gospel of Peace (Christ living in us)

·         The Shield of Faith (deflect doubt)

·         Helmet of Salvation (protect My mind)

·         Word of God (our Playbook)

Live It

Got the picture? This isn’t just another speaker at a conference. I don’t want to take notes; I don’t have to take notes. I don’t need the Outline! The guy next to me is typing emails to his wife and he isn’t listening to the message, why should I? My job is to come in make the sound, video and lighting work; give the guest at the Cove a top shelf experience for their personal spiritual lives, not mine. This is not my life, I’m ok. I don’t have a dog in this hunt.  WRONG.

My pen is moving and putting words on the outline pages. Gods in my head, he’s in my heart, that’s why he’s in my head.

So, how do we accomplish this victory from a battle of posturing in the church, or friendships gone wrong, or failure in ministry? Realize it’s not mine to control. The plan is clear.

1.       Confession – a powerful tool. Keep short accounts with God.

2.       Submission – I choose to submit to Gods plan for my life. Submitting to Gods way for me.

3.       Action – Never fear what Satan can do to me when I am in the will of God. I have to do it, Gods will for my life is my plan.

4.       Live It!

Stop Trying To Control

This is the plan I shared with Suzanne as we sat and ate our burgers. After we ate we visited some shops and continued to talk about how we move forward. We prayed at the table, amid all the noise of a busy restaurant, yet the time with God was without distraction including a renewed purpose and spirit in the two of us.

We finished our day with walking and talking through some of our favorite shops, Costco and Publix. And with that we turned and headed for home. One last stop to make.

As we drove back up the mountain, toward home, in front of us was the North Carolina State Line sign, I pulled off to the side of the road and stopped in front of the sign.

“This is our line in the sand”, I said to Suzanne. “Here is where we leave the past, all the hurts and regrets. We leave it at the foot of the Cross and start all over. This time with God in full control.”

My paradigm here at the NC State Line was a corny illustration but appropriate. We got out of the car took our picture at the state line like two tourist seeing the mountains for the first time. It wasn’t the first time rather a restart of what Christ has been preparing us for since we started in 1999. A whirlwind of ministry in all those years. Now we stand before God broken, used up but not finished. We are both fighters. Here is where we commit to serving God under His will and control. Just like our day started with one set of objectives and ended up totally the opposite of what I had planned. A great example of Gods will and our ability to let Him guide me to where He wants me to be. At the NC State Line.

Now it’s a line in the sand, a fresh start. God makes all things new through Christ.

It’s your turn. Are you tired of seeing things fall apart when your best efforts a met with trouble and defeat. It’s time to allow Christ to take control for your life and give everything you do to the plans He has made for you. They are plans to prosper you and to make you into the kind of person Jesus wants you to be. That’s how we were made. Right now ask God for forgiveness, let him know you are a sinner. Believe that Jesus Christ died for your sins. Let Jesus know that you want Him to take control of your life right now, today. Now let your life be an example of Christ in your relationships with your family and you friends. It’s not complicated.

Pray every day; talk to God as if you are talking to a friend. Read the Bible, it Gods word to you and it’s a powerful message in a world that is always changing, yet Gods word doesn’t change, build a foundation on His plan. Get involved with other Christians that can build you up and help you grow in your faith.

I hope you enjoyed our journey. It was a day that changed our lives and our perspective about how we view our relationship with God. We had let it get out of hand. If you would like to talk about how Christ can make a difference in your life send us a note or email me and we would be happy to share what we can on your journey with Christ.

Not In The Brochure Part I

View from Caesars Head

This journey all started at The Cove at the Billy Graham Training Center during a conference I was working with guest speaker Jonathan Falwell, pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church in Lynchburg, Virginia.

As an audio and video engineer at the Cove I am responsible for various elements of the program for the duration of the event. For this particular conference I was the graphics technician for a three day seminar. After you’ve done these for as long as I have you learn to disconnect yourself from certain aspects of the conference. During the praise and worship, which is amazing at The Cove, it’s important to be on your game and focus on every word because I am responsible for putting the words on the video screen as everyone sings during the praise and worship portion as well as all the visual aspects during the event. It takes focus and concentration because there are a lot of distractions. On the other hand when the speaker is up and begins his presentation I can usually sit back and listen to the message or not. It’s a big difference between hearing a speaker go through his program or actually listening and engaging in the topic.

As with many events at the Cove, I had done a couple of events with Jonathan and enjoyed his messages but the last time he was here I was not listening even though I heard every word he said. It’s my job to hear him.

On Tuesday, February 24, I sat down at my desk, programmed all the graphics, announcements and songs and I was ready for a three day conference. As Jonathan began speaking my mind engaged the words he was saying right away. Usually I have to make an intentional effort to focus and concentrate on any speaker but as he spoke those words my mind was already actively listening. I had his outline in front of me so I began to take notes and follow his lesson. His topic for this conference; Pursuing Holiness.

The first topic on the outline; What Does God Want From Me? Immediately Jonathans word hit me right between the eyes and the listening mechanism in my brain was in RECORD mode. I don’t usually take notes while working an event.  I may listen or follow the speakers outline if he is using a Power Point and grab a few nuggets for my Christian life but it’s kind of like walking around Costco and getting food samples while you shop, you have a list of things to buy and the samples are little bonuses as you shop.

One thing in particular got my attention. It was in Session Two, Wednesday morning’s topic. It begins with “The Battle”. As a Christian I have seen the battle and have some scars to prove it. The key verse in this outline was from Micah 6:8 – He has shown you, O man, what is good …To love mercy and walk humbly with your God.

What does a battle have to do with humility? A battle is usually an aggressive or defensive strategy. You’re either winning or your defending you position, either way it’s not a time to show weakness.

Next Jonathan does something very interesting he takes a little detour from the battle plan and has what resembles a safety meeting for the troops. Picture this, you are handed your equipment for battle then the next thing you do is, go out and start fighting? No. You have to learn your equipment and how to use it. That makes sense. We can read the Bible, go to church and even participate in a ministry or two just by attending church but if we don’t understand what Gods plan is for our lives then we are simply going through the motions.

He goes to Psalms 61 but first he reads Psalm 46. Verse 10 says; Be still, and know I am God... Now that’s more like it, there’s Gods power. Now we move over to Psalms 61, not very battle like. It’s more of a safety plan than a battle plan. In my notes I write, “Security In God”.  I open the Blue Letter Bible on my computer and begin to read along.

The Psalmist begins by saying, “Hear my prayer, O God! Pay attention to me!” Yep, that’s exactly how I feel right now. God will you pay attention to me?

My soul is weary from trying to do your work Lord, I thought to myself.  For the next few minutes I listened to Jonathan speak the words from Psalms 61 but then I disconnected from Jonathans talk and heard God talking to me from those words in the Bible on the computer screen in front of me. It was those words that seemed to just lay there like a blanket in a grassy field on a spring day. Ok, that’s a bit dramatic but that’s exactly how those words from Psalms 61 were revealed to me. Here’s what my outline looked like as we read through Psalms 61.

v  Hear me God, listen to me! I call to you from this lonely place.

v  Lead me to a foundation that is beyond my strength. I’ve come to you many times, yet people still attack me.

v  I want to come over to your house and stay. Living under your protection.

v  God, I’ve committed to serving you. I have a family and a history of character because we fear you.

v  Give this leader a long life and influence the generations of my family.

v  We should sit in your presence as a good friend.

v  Put love as a faithful companion, let truth guard me.

v  I sing all the days of my life your spirit dwelling in me.

v  I will be sold out for you each day.

v  Nothing will stop me.

 

Then on the left margin of my outline I wrote an action plan for each one.

ü  Get away

ü  The Rock, Christ, is my strength

ü  Sit in Gods space

ü  Make me a leader by example

ü  Speak to God

ü  Live it

ü  Stop trying to control (Gods will for my life)

The next two days were the most revealing I had experienced in a long time. It was God speaking to me in a way that made sense in our ministry. I knew what I had to do. Suzanne and I had been becoming more and more jaded in our faith and ministry life. We were as useful in our ministry as a rotten bale of hay we throw in the fire because they are falling apart and full of black mold, not fit for anything. That was how I felt. Yet I kept trying to go forward in our ministry. It was like we were parked on the side of the road with no place to go.

A plan began to formulate in my mind. Suzanne and I need to get away. The conference ended Thursday and then I had some work at the local High School on Friday. I thought, Suzanne and me should go away for the weekend. Then on Friday the school called and said they needed a bus driver to take a group of students to Furman University on Saturday, it would be all day, leave around 5:00 AM and back home at 4:00 PM that afternoon. I called Suzanne and asked her if she would go with me, she could ride the bus with me then we could hang out at the college, pick the students up and be home that afternoon. We could have some time together.  She said yes. Ok, plans made.

I began to formulate a conversation for the two of us, about our ministry and Gods plan for our lives using my notes from Jonathan’s conference. We were going to get back on track with God and stop this bad attitude that had begun to take over our lives and ministry, right now!

 In my own life I was so disgusted with some of the people I had come in contact with during our ministry and cowboy church planting as well as our ministry efforts, I was beat down and out. It was time for a change and it needed to start with me.

We would have to leave the house by 4:15 AM to get to the High School and get the bus ready. Suzanne was up by 3:00 AM Saturday morning. I was excited about our adventure together. We would have time to ourselves once we dropped the students off.

I get to the school and go to get the keys from the drivers room but my code doesn’t work on the door, I try it again and still it doesn’t work. It’s 4:30 in the morning and I am going to have to wake someone up to help me get in the school and get the bus keys, yikes! A few text with one of the vice principals later still no keys and the school is locked up. One of the adults with the group I’m supposed to drive shows up and he doesn’t have the bus keys and can’t get access into the school to get them… we are stuck. The group makes the decision to take their own cars to Furman. Now Suzanne and I have the entire day to ourselves. This was not part of my plan. We decide to go get breakfast and make a day of it.

It’s 5:30 AM and we are on the road. In my head I reformulate my plan for a day of renewal for us and our relationship with God. We hit the road.

Conditional Conditions

It with confidence that I make this statement. Many churches here in WNC and in America are not the Church Christ intended them to be. The politics and posturing of a church administration is sending it straight to hell along with others that are caught up in the fray. Yet, they are so wrapped up in their administration they wouldn't take instruction from the Master Himself if He stood up in their midst on a Sunday morning.

I am grieved at what I see. It bothers me that I see it and understand it's consequences. Just not sure what to do with the information yet.

The church struggles for identity by using the same old tactics that have failed and caused the organization of the church to dwindle to the point of the brick, steepled buildings we once filled now barley used except for a few events that only the oldest members attend. The rest of us pass them by wondering what happened. No more does a phrase like "you should be in church" hold any weight or authority in our conciseness.

A great revival must take place and it won't happen in the small red brick churches that dot the back roads and street corners. It won't happen in our living rooms in front of our 70" flat screen big budget televangelist production.

We are going to be required to read the Book, fall from our personal agendas, give up our control over a committee and turn from our own desires and ask God in the name of His son Jesus Christ, to forgive us of our greed and moral decay, Christian that means you. Pastors, music ministers, youth directors, church staff, leaders and congregation will need to fall on our faces before God and ask Him to forgive us. Revival will not come without it. The church will not grow without it. Revival won't come through the pastor with the parachute clause in his contract. It has to come when we put the corporate industry out of our churches and focus on the All Mighty power of God who created Heaven and Earth and you and me in His image.

Face it, we've tried to make a business plan out of the church. Christ intend the church to grow in the knowledge and love of God. Christ will return for His church. How will He find us? He'll find us in a committee meeting arguing over the color of the soundmans seat cushions or whether we sing Amazing Grace adagio or allegro.

So that's the state of it right now, we're all played out. Will this make a difference? Probably not because the 6 people that will read this already know the condition of their church because it's the same condition of their heart; it's full of want. A want to be filled and see the power of God.

This isn't a seminary level entry but it is the condition of our church and if we have a desire to serve God the Father of Jesus Christ our savior, then we need to begin with the one thing we have the authority to change the condition of...our heart.

What I've learned about God while living life

I’ve learned that I am made in His image - Genesis 1:27a So God created man in His own image

I’ve learned there is only one God - 1 Corinthians 8:6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.

I’ve learned people will let you down – Matthew 24:10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.

I’ve learned I am Gods best work - Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

I’ve learned I won’t be free of problems – Philippians 4:11-14 ¹¹ I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. ¹² I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. ¹³ I am able to do all things through Christ who strengthens me. HCSB

I’ve learned I don’t need to be popular - Ephesians 4:14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes.

I’ve learned Gods plan is best for my life - Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

I’ve learned Gods version of prosperity isn’t money - Mark 10:23 And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!"

²⁴ And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said to them again, "Children, how difficult it is to enter the kingdom of God!

²⁵ It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God."

I’ve learned I don’t have all the answers - Matthew 6:25 Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?

I’ve learned how to put others before me - Matthew 6:3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, ⁴ so that you’re giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

I’ve learned it’s not about me – 2 Timothy 4:5 As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

I’ve learned it’s about a Cross - Colossians 2:14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.

Biblical References taken from the ESV unless otherwise noted

Why People Don't Go To Church Anymore

In 1995 I remember telling my Mom, "in 5 years we may not recognize the face of the church." My Mom has been the organist at Swannanoa First Baptist Church for over 50 years. I grew up in this church and when we moved back to Asheville in 2007 I asked this church to be my church planting sponsor, a request that they responded to with less than positive enthusiasm. Swannanoa First Baptist still only has a piano and organ for praise music. Over the past few years they added a flute, tuba, trombone and called that a praise band.

In the Swannanoa community there are over a dozen churches of varying denominations and size. In 2011 a local mega church, Biltmore Baptist, decided to come to Swannanoa and plant a church in an elite private school. Biltmore sent over about 150 of it's own members and the local church saw their own memberships decline as young couples left the smaller churches for a more "high tech" worship experience. Whether I agree with what Biltmore Baptist did isn't relative, it's just the way of the corporate church. It's kind of like Target building next to Wal-Mart.

Since moving to Asheville and planting a church, my hopes and expectations have been shattered by what we've seen in the churches in this area. From people being down right mean to church leaders trying to intimidate us and bully me. Some of these were people I was looking too for mentoring and guidance. Granted I pushed back a few times against some of these church leaders and that may not have been the best course of action but what I saw was not what I had expected and certainly not what is taught in "church planting" classes. (Just ask any church planter that doesn't have a mega church backing them)

My point being, if I have experienced this as a church leader what do you think many families that attend church over the years are experiencing?

What needs to happen in America for the church to become a relevant and effective force in our families and communities again? That's a harsh question. Many pastors will say "these people just need to be in church on Sunday." A statement like that sounds good but why would a family want to come to a church where they are constantly on the outside and not included. That kind of thinking comes from a church attitude of  "everyone is welcome" displayed on the church marquee by the side of the road. Churches may say it but they don't practice it. Or better yet they are simply not equipped for it.

Most traditional churches aren't ready for "everyone" who may come through the doors today. I can say it because we have experienced discrimination and elitist attitudes from church leaders first hand. The church leaders think they are protecting there way of life somehow. But in reality they are tightening the noose around the life of that church. I have visited many churches that are struggling for members and when you talk to the pastors of those churches you hear a desperation in their tone about how to reach the community with a church body that doesn't want integrate with their neighbors. They want it like it was in 1975. Most people have figured out that the uber-healing and wealth based faith message is not what Christ intended his church to look like.

Church life is less and less about serving a community and more and more about serving it's own interest. Just try to get three church pastors together at the same time. Our daughter works as a server at a local restaurant and she is a committed Christ follower and has been involved in ministry all of her life. One day a couple left a postcard for their church on a table she was serving. The only problem with that was the couple didn't interact with her other than to order their food. The only thing this couple knew was to leave an anonymous postcard as an invitation to their church. Why would she or anyone else want to drive across town to a traditional church (based on the black and white picture on the postcard) 20 miles away from just the message on a black and white postcard?

Recently I had a social media conversation with a church planting pastor and he informed me that his church was for only those who believe in Christ. I couldn't help but imagine the loneliness and emptiness of such a church. That was a clear example of the divide between the church organization and the people of the community around it.

Organizations are starting churches on the internet, warehouses, podcast and social media. The church needs to be the community and reaching their neighbors with the love of Christ, which is available to everyone. It's one thing to talk about it and another to live it and show it. Those of us that know it need to learn how to share it. Christ built relationships to the people He walked with. We Christians need to build relationships with people in our communities. That's where Christ is.

What will church look like in 2014?

What Does Christ Look Like?

Cowboys in Asheville

What does Christ look like? A fitting title for a documentary movie series. Many artists have depicted Christ in paintings. Others have carved his likeness into statues that sit in cathedrals and viewed by travelers needing inspiration. Recently a television series gave us a look at Christ from a directors perspective. Many movies have cast actors to play the role of Christ and as many have given a different personality to the role. And still people seek to know, what does Christ look like?

I've been in full time ministry service since 1999. Not by a church commission or denomination ordination, but of the calling God put on my life. In 2005 I was ordained as a minister. Each of my callings is taken with great regard to my ministry. Sitting a pew waiting for something to happen or to get involved with a church committee has never been my calling nor my desire. Many years ago I felt God did not need me in a church building to do His work. So that calling turned into a ministry. Over the years I have seen why he has done this. The organization that calls itself the church is flawed and many times misguided in the pursuit of its function. Yes, great men have preached sermons that moved people to change their lives and live for Christ. This is the church Christ intended. To make disciples, teach Gods love through Christ grace and duplicate it through other people. Yet we have made God into an industry. A copyright forging of facilities, books, teachings and music. All in the inspirational name of God who we claim it all came from. Yet we collect the profits and royalties of our officially licensed merchandise. What does Christ look like?

That's getting a little too deep but do you get the picture? Christ told the disciple's in Mark 16:15 to "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation." Immediately the disciples rushed out, created a business plan, formed an LLC, compiled an outline for a teaching series, hired an agent and a management firm, wrote a book and struck a publishing deal for the rights to the material. If we feel called to ministry that's what we do. Some more better at it than others. No, they struck out then and there spreading the news that Christ lives and changes lives. Even at the cost of their own lives. Peter didn't rush out and finish his MBA or go get his MDIV. They started at the point they were at and went from there.

"What does Christ look like?" You may answer he looked like a young man of Jewish decent. Biologically you would not be wrong. That's not the question I'm asking. The question I am asking is for today, 2013. If we, the body of Christ, are called to do His work it is my belief that Christ looks like you and me. Let's not confuse this with a "Jesus complex" I don't have special powers nor do I claim to be a savior of anything. Christ lives in me and because of this I want to go tell other people about Christ and His message of grace. It's His power not mine. Over the years my ministry has been concerts, cowboy events, rodeos and horse shows. This year our ministry has been NASCAR at a local track in Tennessee and rodeos.

This week I had the opportunity to meet Tim and Lynn Tuggle who are riding horseback across America sharing Jesus with everyone they meet and asking people to pray for our military and our country. Their ministry is called Disciples of Jesus Horsemen. That is what Christ looks like. To the men, women and children they have met Tim and Lynn are representing Christ. It's not always comfortable or easy. It's what Christ told us to do, "Go and tell the world the Good News of Jesus Christ!"

Let's wrap this up. Is the picture getting clearer? What does Christ look like? Once you ask Christ into your own life Christ is you. The kind word, a helping hand, going out of your way to help someone when you are too busy with your own schedule and you do it anyway. When Christ is the center of your life all of these tasks become a mission. The love, forgiveness and grace that Christ gave to us by dying on the cross for our sins now resides in you and me because we ask Him to take up first place in our lives. Christ will take you right where you are and makes you into the kind of person He wants you to be.

Today why don't you ask Christ to live in your heart. Say this prayer, Dear Lord Jesus I am a sinner, I ask you to forgive my sins. Jesus you died for my sins and rose from the dead. Make me into the kind of person you want me to be. I give my life over to you as my Lord and Savior. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

This is what Christ looks like.

I Didn't Do It

As we travel around I always enjoy finding out where people are from. Today our communities are filled with families from "somewhere else". The Local or the Transplant. These differences can be a source of contention based on your view. Families who have raised their children in the same location for generations may look with doubt at people that move into their neighborhood, considering them outsiders. On the other-hand a family moving into a new town may view the locals as backwards and unmotivated to change or experience different cultures. In either case both views are distorted and without merit. Brad Paisley newest album titled Wheelhouse has a new song called Southern Comfort Zone; in my opinion I think this should be the anthem of every church. One of my favorite lines from the song is; “…I can see the ways that I’ve grown, I can’t see this world unless I go, outside my Southern Comfort Zone.”

These are challenging economic times and many families have to do whatever it takes to make it and pay their bills. Do you ever feel uncertain about people you know at work or associate with because of their position, lifestyle or religion? We put up our guard when we don’t understand something or if someone is much different from what we know as “normal”. Family can be difficult to deal with at times but they are “family” and you love them anyway.

Gods love for us goes beyond race, gender, family ties and even personalities. Recently I was listening to a speaker talk about the book of Jude in the New Testament. The writer of the book of Jude begins by saying, “I wanted to express my excitement on our common faith and salvation”, but instead he changes gears and goes on to say, “I must challenge you to fight for the faith that gives us eternal life.” That’s my take on it. One thing is for sure we are all unique people with different personalities and attitudes. Near the end of Jude our writer encourages the people of to stand in the faith of Christ, don’t get caught up in the distractions of the world, show this kindness even to people who doubt Gods word.

We are all sinners. The one thing that will separate us from God is our own stubbornness. The God that made the heavens, the earth, you and me, isn’t just for those who go to church on Sunday; sometimes they are the ones who mess things up. He wants the best for you. God loves each and every one of us and wants you and me to have a relationship with Him. Gods’ son, Jesus Christ, came to bridge the gap between a holy God and us here on earth.

Have you ever been blamed for something you didn’t do? You will do everything it takes to prove your innocence. With Christ at the center of our lives we stand blameless in Gods sight. That relationship simply requires that we take our agenda and replace it with Gods plan for our life. We can’t get to God any other way, being a nice guy won’t do it, not by helping other people; or trying to save the planet, none of those good deeds will get us any closer to heaven. Simply believe Jesus Christ is Gods son. Ask Christ into your life right now by admitting you are a sinner, next ask Christ to take up first place in your life and let him lead your desires and motives.

 I know it ain’t easy to change but if you will get around other men and women like you that love God, they can encourage you in a way that makes sense and in a way you can understand. You will begin to see your life in a whole new light. God wants to know you, just as you are, invite Him in, you will enjoy the company.

Holiday Christmas-alation

With everyone getting so twisted about the Christmas - Holiday debate, it's time I offer a brief insight into the mind of the"Cowhunter".

 With so many evil events going on in our country lets put aside all the verbal wrangling and political posturing; instead let's become neighbors sharing joy and a season that represents giving and the gift of hope. A season that represents the best in man-kind....

Tiz the season, ...no? I am so tired of hearing about one group stomping on Christmas and wholesome family values and traditions or another group shouting, "it's a Christmas tree!" or "say MERRY CHRISTMAS!" The latest thing I heard was employees boycotting an office party event because they don't celebrate Christmas. No alchohol just food, sodas and sweet tea. Association is not affirmation. You're not compromising your values or condoning a belief by being freindly or lending your attendance to a gathering at the very place where you work and mingle with other people. In fact it's the exact opposite if we believe in values and our fellow-man then grab a plate, sit next to a friend and talk about your children or your family.

With all the turmoil going on in our world today why wouldn't you want to take time out of your day, sit with your co-workers or next door neighbor for that matter, and enjoy some good food and even a couple of free hours on the company clock.

We see the tradegy brought on by a life filled seperation and division. Let's not duplicate that pattern by isolating ourselves when we should be encouraging one another; if just by our presence and participation.

Put a smile on your face and great one another as humans should with character and goodwill. Let that be a gift you freely give to someone that passes you in the mall or in line at the store. Just as the gift of Christ was given freely to every person on earth. So, Happy Holidays, Merrry Christmas, Happy Hanukka, A Joyous Season, Feliz Navidad and anything else that may be appropriate, you know what I mean.

That's my Tip of the Hat for today.

Sunrise

Take a moment to look out the window. What do you see? Maybe it's early morning and the sky is starting to light up as the sun rises above the horizon. It could be snowing or raining where you are. Many suggest that the weather has an affect on our over all mood.

Recently I hiked up a 3 mile trail during a snow storm casued by the effects of Hurricane Sandy. The incline was steep and slick as I hiked up 1700 feet to the 3800 summit. When I started the sky was blue with few clouds and a steady snow was falling. As I reached the summit the weather had changed drastically. Clouds rolled in, the wind began to howl and the temperature dropped. At the summit there is an overlook that on a clear day you can see the mountains and over into Asheville. But today it resembled a winter blizzard with a wet snow falling and the wind gusting. I couldn't see 10 feet infront of me. Rime ice formed on tree limbs and began to freeze sideways. It was a surreal scene.

Earlier I had been running some errands and as I passed by the Billy Graham Training Center at the Cove, I noticed the rime ice on the ridge above the Cove. So I made the decision to climb the 3 mile accent and get some pictures. I got to the house and began to change clothes. A friend of mine who works for the Buncombe County Rescue Squad has always said "cotton kills", meaning if you get wet cotton is not the fabric to be wearing in a  freezing, wet-snowy environment. Since this hike would probably take a few hours I wanted to be prepared.

With that in mind I put on a layer of under armour and a layer of hiking pants, wool socks, Ariat Terrains then a shirt, vest and top coat finally my beaver cowboy hat and glasses. I was ready. Loaded my day pack with water, snacks and camera. Once I got going on the trail it was obvious that this was going to be a challenge for me. The trail was deep with snow and slick. There was a layer of fallen leaves on top of the road and a couple of inches of snow on top of that not to mention a 7 to 10 percent grade all the way to the top. As I continued up the trail my legs began to burn yet I wasn't going to stop. I'm about 30 pounds shy of my ideal weight. The summit was my goal and a 6 mile round trip hike to complete before it gets dark.

So what's the point to all this? At the top of the summit the wind gusts were buffeting me and the icy snow bit at my face. It was intense, all the layers I had put on earlier paid off. A little prior planning and good advice from a trusted friend paid of in dividends despite my physical condition. I took some time to hear Gods voice in all this caious.

On top of the Summit this is what came to mind: 2 Peter 1:18 And we heard this voice when it came from heaven while we were with Him on the holy mountain.

As I came back down the weather began to break. At the mile and a half marker the snow had melted and there was no real sign of the winter storm that had been there just a couple of hours earlier. The fall leaves covered the ground where a couple of inches of snow had been. Yet on the summit above me the wind and snow still continued.

There are many storms we will experience in our lives yet one thing remains true God is amoung it all, the tempest and the calm. Jesus spoke to the wind and waves and the men accompaining him in the boat were amazed at the authority with which Christ had over the elements on that stormy evening. Jesus has the ability to calm the storms we experience. But in order for Him to work in our life we must prepare. In the same I had to make decisions about what to wear and what to carry on the trail in order to stay healthy for the entire hike.

You can prepare your life right now. Ask Jesus to come into your life right now, ask Him to forgive you of your sins and commit your life at this moment to make Christ first in your life. Next tell a trusted friend that goes to church or talk to a pastor and tell them of your decision today, don't put it off. You can even email us here at Cowboy Church and we will send you information that will help you in your walk with Christ. Begin to read the Bible, Gods word, it will tell you how to live a life full of victory and strength for your everyday life.

Knowing how to hike a trail is very different from actually going out and putting your feet to the path. God has a plan for your life. It's up to you to take the first step. Being prepared will help give you the knowledge and ability to weather what ever comes your way.

Who's Your Ruler (measuring up)

Revelation 21:16
The city lies foursquare, its length the same as its width. And he measured the city with his rod, 12,000 stadia. Its length and width and height are equal.

The last four weeks our GPS bible study has had an interesting time learning how we measure our relationship with God. It’s not with a yard stick or tape measure that we mark with, rather it is with our deep relationship that we gauge our progress.

A man or woman takes up about 2 square feet of individual space, if you like to dance (our son enjoys spinning) then you take up around 7 square feet, if I’m dancing it would be two left feet.

The town I live in is about 6 square miles; Buncombe County measures 656 square miles, the 23 counties that make up Western North Carolina encompass 11,000 square miles. The State of North Carolina approximately 53,000 square miles, the United States from coast to coast including Hawaii and Alaska 3.79 million square miles and the planet Earth including water spans a mind altering 198 million square miles. So let’s put that into perspective to the city John describes here in Revelation. A mathematician estimated the size of the Johns description at 3 billion square miles. Oh, by the way, a Reed, the instrument that was given to measure with, was about 11 feet long.

What it comes down to is this, Who’s Your Ruler?

Philippians 2:6-7 Jesus, although he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, made himself a servant; he was born in the likeness of men.

We live in a town where the railroad tracks divide many communities and some places are considered “the other side of the tracks” yet in heaven there are no right or wrong side of the tracks, no subdivisions, political parties, neighborhoods good or bad. Too often we try to measure our way into heaven by the deeds we perform.

Our position in the community or a title at the end of our name, even the people we associate with gives us a feeling of satisfaction and stature in our businesses, communities and even churches. We demand equality in our relationships and in the way we are treated. Yet God uses none of these forms of measurement to determine our eternal reward. Only one act measures up to Gods expectations and that is accepting His son Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior. It’s measured with the blood Christ shed on the cross for our sins.

The dimensions John gives us in Revelations may be a challenge to wrap your mind around. Allow me to put it this way, the New City John describes would hold 15 planet Earths within its’ walls. Still don’t get it, I will put it like this; There’s room for you!

The Apostle Paul says in Ephesians 3:16-19 “to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the full measure of all the fullness of God”.

Have you ever loved something so much that you would go to any length to be close to it? God wants to know you, every part of you. You can make a difference, Christ working through you, in the world around you, one person, 2 square feet at a time.

Flight Lesson

2Corinthians 11:15 So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.

While flying at high speed fighter pilots are taught how to keep their perspective while flying extreme maneuvers. It’s easy for a pilot to become disoriented while making loops or rolling his jet during high speeds. You can get so caught up in the moment you forget where you are and the power you have in your hands. In each situation you have to know where you are as well as the equipment.

Many years ago a friend of mine took me up in a vintage 1941 Stearman Bi-Plane. I loved to fly so he invited me to go with him one day. We took off from historic College Park Airport in Maryland. As we began our flight, climbing higher and higher, he asked me a question, “Do you like rollercoaster’s?” Yes, I said. Wrong answer. He throttled forward, banked the plane to the left then right, dove towards the ground and pulled straight back on the stick and all I saw was blue sky. As we climbed the engine struggled and I watched the propeller stop spinning. I felt the control stick jam into my left thigh and we rolled over and began a barrel roll toward the earth. All I remember thinking was, ground, sky, ground, sky as we tumbled for what seemed a lifetime. My friend regained control and as we leveled out he pulled back on the stick again and we made a complete loop. As we reached the top of the loop, upside down, I flung my head back against the head rest to see the ground below me. “Breath!” he shouted over the headset. My weight pressed me against the seatbelts, as we came around the loop I felt weightless, then as we approached the bottom of the loop I was pressed down into my seat. My head was spinning but by now I was screaming like I was on a carnival ride. What a rush! I’ll never forget it.

My friend was a trained pilot and instructor he knew what he was doing. This wasn’t his first time. I wouldn’t not have gone on that flight with just anyone, I trusted him. The same is true on our walk with Christ. We must be aware of who it is we are taught by as we learn and become Christ followers. There are some popular teachings that sound religious and they include things about “God” but they are far from the truth. Worship God, His son Jesus Christ and the forgiveness of our sins that comes through the blood Christ shed on the cross. That’s it. It’s not a diet, you don’t have to go through anyone else to get it, it’s not church activities, or a special cause that gets you closer to God. It’s Jesus Christ only.

How do we prepare ourselves for this journey? The Bible has the words we are to apply to our lives daily. Getting involved with a group of Christ following believers is paramount to your success as you live and work in the world around you. Find a church that teaches from Gods word and learn how it applies to your life, each and every day. It’s a weekly relationship you can’t do without. When you learn how to apply Gods word to your life it will begin to provide the meaning and substance God created you for. Ask Christ into your life today by asking Him to forgive you of your sins and allow Christ first in your life. Ask Jesus to make you into the kind of person He wants you to be. You will learn this by associating with other Christ followers and learning Gods word from the Bible. It’s a lesson that will help you pilot life’s journey.

Everyone's A Stage

Recently I was sitting in the chair at the barbershop getting my hair cut. My barber is never short on stories to tell. I’m usually there first thing in the morning to get a haircut so the stories are fresh for that day. Some mornings I don’t feel like talking and will just sit quietly in the chair while he snips and trims my hair and I’m out the door without much conversation. During my most recent visit he told me something that was so profound it bears repeating.

This particular morning I was sitting in the barber chair retelling a story about a local group of churches that had put out a call for help for an event they wanted to put on and then refused help when I had offered services from our ministry. My barber put in the proper light. “Have you ever heard of the Opera ministry”, he said. “No”, I replied. “Well, he continued, it’s all about Me, Me, Me, Me!”

Hebrews 13:15 Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. ESV

Now I don’t think that most ministries are selfish or self-centered rather they are not always equipped to know how to work with others that have resources to help. Churches just don’t naturally work together. Guarding against pride and selfishness is something I have to work on daily in my own life and ministry operations. Ministry leaders will tell you that you must be focused on your objectives and not let anything or anyone distract you from your calling. For example many times someone has said to me, “This is the way we do it at our church”, or “nobody around here will like that”. Even better yet I’ve heard it said ‘church is not a performance’, usually in reference to various styles of praise and worship music or even preaching styles. You right, church is no place for a performance, and it’s a place for worship, yours’ and mine. Many times the music at a Christian concert has moved me to go beyond just watching and listening to worshiping and at times music in a traditional church has lulled me into a sleepy comma as the organist tries to keep up with the pianist and the congregation is a measure ahead of the choir director and everyone’s face is down inside the hymnal muffled by the pages. It’s not about music or message rather worship.

Matthew 15:8 "'This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; ESV

Recently as I was writing this, a local church asked me to sing for their Sunday morning worship. The church, two months prior, had lost its pastor and youth minister at the same time, basically pressuring them out because of their efforts to create a more contemporary format. They also informed me they don’t do the “Praise and Worship thing”. As I began to sing on Sunday morning, by the way, I was leading everyone in traditional hymns and asking them to sing along, we had the words on the screen but it was all traditional music. I noticed four people walk out. On Monday one of the deacons and his wife called me and told me in a most hateful manner, I quote “did you see those people leave? Well they left because of you!” Wow, thinking to myself. People refused to worship in song so they walked out and they blamed me. They were not there to worship me rather they were there to worship the Living God and couldn’t even do that. I couldn’t believe my ears; it became clear why the staff was gone.

I was standing on the football field at Dolphin Stadium in Miami during the Half Time Show of Super Bowl 41, I watched Prince perform to a sold out crowd in the pouring rain. As he began to sing one of his most popular ballads, Purple Rain, seventy-five thousand screaming fans rose to their feet waiving purple glow sticks and singing at the top of their lungs. Standing there on that field, in that moment gave me chill bumps down to my toes; I can still see it and hear it in my mind. Even people that didn’t like Princes music were on their feet swaying to the music, it was a moment you’d never forget.

Why then can’t we worship our Creator and Savior with the same fever? God made you his instrument, so you stand on the stage of His worship and raise your hands, sing your song, lift your eyes to the Maker of the Universe. You will never be without an audience; He is watching and all of creation applauding your worship.
Ephesians 4:12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,

Church One Day

by 6ene Blankenship, Jr

I went to church this Sunday
to sing, pray, worship and praise
At the end of the service a comittee broke out
They said when you come back again
Ask the Lord before you come in
If you should sing and sway whats that all about
Come back next week if it's church you seek
So off I went considering my song
Lord fill my heart make me strong
Next Sunday I went to church
To sing and pray this time to worship
Again I was told now listen here
Your worship was loud the music with a beat
Search your heart during the week
Is God in worship with that sort tone
Again I pondered how do I worship Christ, Gods Son
This Sunday I was met at the door
Did you pray they ask, did you do as we wish
My answer was short something like this
Yes I prayed much time on my knees I spent
Asking the Lord about this church I went
To sing and worship, praise and pray
The Lord answered me in this way
Go ahead sing and pray it's from your heart this music with a beat
Get off the pew, raise you hands, stand to your feet
As for the church you ask I wouldn't know
Their faces drawn their voices low
The comittee formed the people met
But worship Me they haven't yet

You Can't Ride That Horse

One day while my daughter, Devin, was at the ranch where she took horse-back riding lessons one of her friends had come along to watch. Her lessons usually lasted about an hour or more. As the lesson progressed Devin stopped by where we were all sitting to rest Flash, her horse. Flash is a small horse, not a pony, but a bit less than the average horse. Make no mistake his size is in no way relavent to his heart. He is a jumper and will go over anything you set infront of him. My daughters instructor was even heasitant about letting Devin on him when she first started. So while Devin was standing there with Flash in hand her freind said, when do I get to ride? The way she said it was almost demanding, so what Devin said next really put things in perspective. " You can't ride this horse", Devin replied without hesitation. Her friend made some kind of reply that showed she really didn't know what she was about to get into. Flash was not a trail riding horse, he was fine tuned, easy going, but you could get into trouble if you didn't understand how to ride him. Devin had spent many hours learning how to ride, the parts of a saddle, how to care for a horse, grooming and mucking stalls before she ever stepping into the saddle. And even then she learned on a "lesson" style horse the kind of horse you could put a two year old child on and walk around the arena with. So Devins' reply wasn't to be selfish rather she was being practical even the instructor invited her friend to come back next week and start on a program but this isn't a horse you just hop on and ride.

I tell you this story because lately a few things have come to my attention that I thought need s'plaining. In ministry, many times I come across people that feel called to use their talents for Gods work. That usually comes after a moment of personal inventory and guidance by a pastor or church leader. Starting a ministry is only one part of your walk with Christ and should not be taken lightly. In your ministry also comes a responsibility to maintain that relationship with God. That relationship is developed through worship with others. If you occasionally go to church or not at all how will your relationship with Christ deepen and how will you see Him at work if you go slip back into the worlds way of doing things. It won't work.

Hebrews 10:25 Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage one another all the more, since you see that the Day of the Lord is coming nearer.

A ministry requires being ministered to. You can't bring others to Christ if you don't know how yourself. The bible warns teachers to take inventory of what they are about to do and don't enter into it lightly. You may have heard the saying if you run with dogs you'll get fleas. James 1:3 says it like this "You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors."

We must all take inventory of where we are in our walk with Christ. If your ministry is without Christ and leadership at it's center you may just have a hobby. You must take inventory of your heart, is it full of anger, bitterness and resentment? Is Christ really at your core, is it all about Him or all about you? Only you can answer these questions. In my opinion you're kidding yourself if you are in a ministry without accountablility.

"But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience." Luke 8:15

I've lost my cool before and made mistakes in my ministry, yet at every turn and decision Christ is at the core of everyting I do.

Are you prepared for the ride? Is this a horse you can ride?

View from the Porch

What do you see when you look out your front door? One of my favorite views is the one out our front door. On a sunny spring day we see pastures of grass, our two horses and my Mom and Dads house which is about 400 yards away. We also see across the tree tops and sometimes our neighbors dog Lucy walking up our gravel driveway for a visit. On a snowy winter day the view from our front porch looks like a postcard or a Merle Norman painting. My Mom has even commented that she likes the view from our front porch. To the east the sun rises above the mountains and then makes it's way across until it sets in the west disappearing over the Blue Ridge mountains. If you wanted to you could sit on a rocking chair on our front porch and watch this scene unfold right before your eyes.

Ephesians 3:17 and I pray that Christ will make his home in your hearts through faith. I pray that you may have your roots and foundation in love,

God watches us from his heavenly home through starry skies and the vastness of space. From His creation seemingly endless stars and galaxies He looks at you and I through the eyes of His son Jesus. Just as there are days when the view from my porch is filled with clouds which diffuse the sun and rain turns a gravel drive into mud. It is still a sight to see because I know the clouds will part and the land will soak up the water and use it to grow lush green grass for our horses to eat. Our Heavenly father sees the times when darkness fills our lives and the daily challenges over power us we strain beneath the weight. Yet He knows our potential and watches and guides us to make sure we have strong roots that allow us to with-stand the wind, rain and snow.

One of my favorite views is a half acre of mature white pines that stand in a parcel all by themselves. I've watched a hawk sit for an hour on the highest limb and then dive as if he's falling to the ground and them pick his prey out of the pasture beneath him with ease. On a windy day the sound is like a freight train and the wind blows through the limbs and the pines sway in unison. I like to stand under one of the trees and watch it bend as it is pressed by gusts, yet it never yields completely it merely bends as if to pay respect and let it pass.

In life when the storms come do we yield to the distraction of the opposing force or just yield as gail blows knowing it will pass, knowing all the-while that our strength is build on a solid foundation, with deep roots. Those deep roots come from knowing the truth about who God is and who he made you and I to be. Children of the most High God.

Jesus said in Mark 4:39 And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

In great strength comes great peace. Jesus was able to command the wind while the men in the boat along with him only saw turmoil. The fishermen feared the storm yet in their presents was the wind maker the creator of life in their midst yet they couldn't see it.

We must learn who to place our strength in even in the darkest times. Gods strength is enough for all us who depend on him yet in order to tap that power we must have a daily relationship with him and that relationship comes through his son Jesus. Storms will come and go, place your trust in the one who has the power to command the wind and waves as well as the power to forgive. Place your trust in Christ.

Church Grower or Church Goer

Since my wife and I began our path as church planters one thing has been consistent, opposition from other church goers. Now I don't think it is on purpose or malicious for the most part but as much as we have made it a point to reach the unchurched those that attend a traditional church have provided little or no support. Most of the people we meet and talk to about our church planting efforts are kind and supportive in word only. And that's ok with me. However it should be pointed out that a few denominations are on church planting sprees. If you go to a State Convention meeting or regional ministry association gathering you will probably hear them applaud someone who has started a church. (I think the applause is a nervous response of "glad it's not me") The only problem with this process is that this message hasn't got to the local congregations, the individual in the pew. Local church congregations and pastors talk about supporting missions overseas yet, America is slowly falling into a secular nation mind set.

The small church planter is strong and focused. He may not have a huge church backing him but never-the-less is called to grow the body of Christ. I think to my own experiences to planting in Western North Carolina. A church on every corner and yet the majority of them only have a handful of members left and the church membership is aging with hardly any young families. That's the WNC area. Our first year here we spent going and visiting with churches and various people that we thought wanted to be part of a church plant and to put it mildly it has fallen flat on it's face. And to be quit honest it has left me frustrated and feeling ill about the whole process. The blame is all mine. Even though I trust in God to guild me I have let my feelings get the best of me at times. This area even started a Church Planting Network but to be a part of the Network you had to pay a coaching fee which I thought was a bit corporate for my taste. Again this came from a very large church that had members putting money into church planting efforts that they picked not what was being planted. That has beed some of my experiences.

A church grower has a different mindset than that of the typical church goer. The church grower takes the task of spreading the gospel literally. The bible commands us to go make disciples. In 2011 the church is going to have to change to reach the young families of this generation. This will hit alot of nerves and make some that read this think who is he to say these things!? All you have to do is look on the bookshelf at the local Christian bookstore and look at the church starting section and you will see volumes of covers sharing the latest greatest church planting strategies. And even on Sunday morning it preached from the pulpit but the hearts of the congregations are not available or willing to support church planting. I'm not talking about money. Yes, it takes cold hard cash to start a church but even more important is the maturity of the Christ follower to help grow and reach the next generation.

The church goer may show up on Sunday sit in a Sunday School class and then occupy a seat during the preaching. Beyond that it may not go any further. If you are still reading take time right now and pray about your relationship with your heavenly Father and your own worship. Most preachers I've heard speak usually say at some point that we are not meant to merely occupy a pew. Yet, he would lose his job if he actually preached about the lack of vision and apathy in the congregation.

The Church Grower is a visionary. He is focused on the equipment it will take to get it off the ground. Lets just take for granted that the church planter has spent hours on his knees seeking Gods will and countless pages of study reading the bible for guidance. It takes getting people together finding equipment and letting the community around you know where you are. Although it can't be done by one person it usually is, the pastor/planter and his wife. Talk about burn out. There are no church planting support groups that can understand what he goes through to plant and start a church. One things for sure the people that need to read this won't ever see it. If they do please call me I will suggest how to help.

This post isn't for the weak hearted or those who don't like confrontation, ugh. It's for the one with a vision and a heart for adventure. Gods great adventure.

New Year New Yawn

Could you watch it? The memorial service from Tucson, Arizona of the January 8th shooting at a political gathering that killed six people, was televised yesterday. I couldn't watch it. It was on the TV but just couldn't bring myself to listen or see the images. A very tragic event.

Instead I went outside and watched my son and his friend sled down our hill. The joys of my family are made in memories every day. My daughter who is bored from the snow-days just wanted to get out of the house, so we put dry clothes on and went to the mall to walk around. Living in Asheville is challenging because our two children grew up with neighbors right across the street to play with. Not so where we live now. But I am proud of the way they have adapted to the area despite the cultural differences.

Strength comes in various forms. During an open house at my daughters school one of her teachers commented as I walked through the door "You're a large, tall man, I wouldn't mess with you". It was a funny comment because I don't see myself that way, but it helps with the guys that want to date her. My philosophy has always been that our family draws on our collective strength and we draw strength from our faith in God.

My wife is source of great strength and inspiration with a strong faith. The snow continues to fall, the temperature will be well below freezing but the sun is shinning and the best is yet to come.

Have you heard

The other day I came across an announcement for a message entitled "wake up call for Gods people". It made me think, "are Gods people asleep?...yeah, pretty much." If we lived our lives as true Christ followers would we need a clever marketing strategy, book and cd series to wake us up.
Micah 6:7 "Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?"
What do we do to make things right with God? Do we increase our activities at church, enroll in a new committee, teach another class, become more involved in the church, tithe more? NO! Instead get on your kness and ask for forgiveness of the pride, the hatelful way you have treated people, for not standing up for what is right, for keeping silent when you should have spoken out, for putting your own agenda before Gods. The church, you and I, are not to be political machines in our worship. How are you and I different in Christ?
Matthew 3:8 Bear fruit in keeping with repentance.
Pride and self-importance don't bear repentance instead it looks more like "what's in it for me." You may not act like it on the outside but the heart reaveals true motives.
Jeremiah 4:14 O Jerusalem, wash your heart from evil, that you may be saved. How long shall your wicked thoughts lodge within you?
Keep reading, it gets' better. If you and I are to make disciples and share the life changing message of Christ in this world our lives must reflect Christ in us. The "wake up call" may simply mean getting your life in perspective to Christ. Before Christmas I read the story of George Washington at Valley Forge December 24, 1777. The story moved me and I told everyone in my family to read it before Christmas. It reminded me that men have taken a stand for whats right despite the overwhelming odds against them. Today we have forgotten what it means to stand-up for the right. Boldness is viewed as an undesirable trait. Yet these men stood in the face of great opposition and it proved victorious.
Have you heard that God loves you and wants to know you. Only through a repentant heart will you have access to the Creator and Father of Jesus our savior. Have you heard that your mistakes, pride and willful disobidience can be forgiven if you will ask. If you know Jesus as you Lord but have fallen into the trap of doing it your way repent ask Jesus to search your heart get right with Him and begin to live a life filled with the power of the Holy Spirit residing in you. Have you heard? Now tell someone.