Tomorrow Carrie and I are investing in our marriage in a big way. The two of us are going out of town for the day for a marriage retreat. It's not like other retreats where couples from all over join together to hear marriage counselors discuss details on how to improve your marriage. Nope, it's just the two of us!
We're going to proactively spend time discussing how we can enhance our relationship with one another and how we can be better parents to our children. As a pastor and pastor's wife, we not only have a large amount of responsibility on our shoulders, but we also deal with an incredible amount of spiritual warfare in our marriage and family. Why wait until crisis hits before we plan? Why not be proactive and have a game plan for when crisis hits? Why not have a strategy to accomplish, overcome and get through the everyday stuff that life throws at us as busy parents of three young children?
I'm looking forward to spending quality time with my wife, my life-partner. She's my best friend. She's an incredible inspiration to me in so many ways. It's a true joy to share my life with her!
Friday, July 30, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Finishing the Task
I was browsing the website of Finishing the Task this morning and came across this striking piece of information:
Today, 639 unengaged, unreached people groups with populations over 100,000, together numbering over 535,000,000 souls, are still beyond the reach of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are spiritually lost and helpless like sheep having no Shepherd. Among them Christ remains unknown, unacknowledged, and unadored.
It's hard for people like us, as Americans, to conceive of such a fact. There are people who have never even heard of a man named Jesus who was crucified 2000 years ago. These are people who have been forgotten by the rest of the world.
Our Lord told His disciples to proclaim the Good News in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria and to the outer ends of the earth. For us today, that means sharing the Gospel with our local community, our region, our nation and the world.
Although there are some who are spiritually gifted as evangelists and missionaries, we can not turn our backs on the Great Commission that was issued to every single believer and follower of Christ. Regardless of how gifted we think we are in those particular areas, we all have been called to engage our community and the world as evangelists and missionaries.
At City on a Hill Church, we've expanded our mission work this past year from our community to children in Africa. In the next year, we're going to send people on our first mission trip overseas. We're also seeking the Lord's leading in a mission opportunity that could plant churches and orphanages all over the world.
There's a question in this for all of us. If there are that many people who haven't heard Jesus' name proclaimed, then what are you doing about it? You and I have as much responsibility to responding to the Great Commission as anyone else!
Today, 639 unengaged, unreached people groups with populations over 100,000, together numbering over 535,000,000 souls, are still beyond the reach of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are spiritually lost and helpless like sheep having no Shepherd. Among them Christ remains unknown, unacknowledged, and unadored.
It's hard for people like us, as Americans, to conceive of such a fact. There are people who have never even heard of a man named Jesus who was crucified 2000 years ago. These are people who have been forgotten by the rest of the world.
Our Lord told His disciples to proclaim the Good News in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria and to the outer ends of the earth. For us today, that means sharing the Gospel with our local community, our region, our nation and the world.
Although there are some who are spiritually gifted as evangelists and missionaries, we can not turn our backs on the Great Commission that was issued to every single believer and follower of Christ. Regardless of how gifted we think we are in those particular areas, we all have been called to engage our community and the world as evangelists and missionaries.
At City on a Hill Church, we've expanded our mission work this past year from our community to children in Africa. In the next year, we're going to send people on our first mission trip overseas. We're also seeking the Lord's leading in a mission opportunity that could plant churches and orphanages all over the world.
There's a question in this for all of us. If there are that many people who haven't heard Jesus' name proclaimed, then what are you doing about it? You and I have as much responsibility to responding to the Great Commission as anyone else!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Second Saturday!
This Saturday, City on a Hill Church will be at the car wash next to Wal-Mart from 9am to 11am. We'll be paying the initial deposit for all manual car washes during this time.
Our Second Saturday events are sponsored by our Kindness Ministry which specializes in demonstrating God's love in practical ways. The people of COAHC believe that Christ ministered in practical ways and met the needs of His people. We strive to do the same.
Our Second Saturday events are sponsored by our Kindness Ministry which specializes in demonstrating God's love in practical ways. The people of COAHC believe that Christ ministered in practical ways and met the needs of His people. We strive to do the same.
Good Enough
I read a recent article by Rick Warren entitled "Why 'Good Enough' is Good Enough". It got me thinking about how serving is viewed in the Church. I agree with Rick's assertion that the local church can become performance based which can lead to a church that is immersed in entertaining its members and visitors.
In my estimation, there must be a balance between the truth found in Ecclesiastes 11:4 - If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done. (NLT) - and excellence. If we err on the side of excellence, the local church can be frozen in fear and shackled by the expectation of perfection. If we err on the other side of the spectrum, we can lose the excellence that God calls us to strive for in Colossians 3:23 - Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men (NIV).
For the Church, it comes down to this: we must demand the very best from ourselves. It's really that simple. Too many are serving half-heartedly with the comment, "Well, that's good enough."
In the context of sports, athletes use the phrase, "Don't leave anything on the field." Scripture uses athletics as an analogy for our life with Christ often for a reason. We can identify with athletics, but the principles in athletics are similar to our relationship with God. You and I need to make sure we haven't left anything on the field. We're called to particular ministries and we're called to give our very best effort.
Our salvation isn't performance-based, and it's not about measuring ourselves against one another. Our relationship with Christ simply calls us to take what we've been given and use it for the glory of God. We all must be satisfied with the best others offer. God is. Why shouldn't we be?
In my estimation, there must be a balance between the truth found in Ecclesiastes 11:4 - If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done. (NLT) - and excellence. If we err on the side of excellence, the local church can be frozen in fear and shackled by the expectation of perfection. If we err on the other side of the spectrum, we can lose the excellence that God calls us to strive for in Colossians 3:23 - Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men (NIV).
For the Church, it comes down to this: we must demand the very best from ourselves. It's really that simple. Too many are serving half-heartedly with the comment, "Well, that's good enough."
In the context of sports, athletes use the phrase, "Don't leave anything on the field." Scripture uses athletics as an analogy for our life with Christ often for a reason. We can identify with athletics, but the principles in athletics are similar to our relationship with God. You and I need to make sure we haven't left anything on the field. We're called to particular ministries and we're called to give our very best effort.
Our salvation isn't performance-based, and it's not about measuring ourselves against one another. Our relationship with Christ simply calls us to take what we've been given and use it for the glory of God. We all must be satisfied with the best others offer. God is. Why shouldn't we be?
Prophecy for Pentecostals
This weekend while I was visiting some dear friends, I was given a copy of a prophecy that was written down during the great revival in Whales in 1910.
"In the last days, three things will occur in the large Pentecostal movements:
1 - There will be much emphasis on power at the expense of righteousness.
2 - There will be an exaggerated accentuation on praising a God to whom nobody prays any longer.
3 - There will be a strong emphasis on the gifts of the Spirit at the expense of the Lordship of Jesus Christ Himself!"
I ask you, could we be living in the last days?
"In the last days, three things will occur in the large Pentecostal movements:
1 - There will be much emphasis on power at the expense of righteousness.
2 - There will be an exaggerated accentuation on praising a God to whom nobody prays any longer.
3 - There will be a strong emphasis on the gifts of the Spirit at the expense of the Lordship of Jesus Christ Himself!"
I ask you, could we be living in the last days?
Monday, July 5, 2010
The Wal-Mart Well
When it comes to ministry, it's important to know not only what to do, but when and where to do it as well.
In Jesus' day, the well was a gathering place. We're familiar with the story of the woman at the well, where Jesus had a miraculous encounter with a woman whose life was changed as a result. We don't have wells like that today. But we do have gathering places. Here in Culpeper, one example is Wal-Mart. It seems every time Carrie comes home from doing her weekly grocery shopping, she tells about seeing some friends.
One of City on a Hill Church's first organized Kindness Outreaches was a Dollar-Drop at Wal-Mart. Carrie, the girls and I walked around Wal-Mart and randomly and conspicuously dropped dollar bills on the floor of the store. Each bill was attached to a card that read
We dropped fifty of those bills and cards all over the store.
Since then, we've used Wal-Mart as our venue to hand out carnations to ladies on Valentine's Day and host a wellness check in partnership with the Lion's Club. In fact, Wal-Mart has even awarded COAHC with small grants for the last two years to be used in our community.
Jesus engaged culture on their turf. Let's open our eyes to the opportunities that are around us. Let's get out of our church buildings, find those wells in our communities and engage our communities with the love of Christ.
In Jesus' day, the well was a gathering place. We're familiar with the story of the woman at the well, where Jesus had a miraculous encounter with a woman whose life was changed as a result. We don't have wells like that today. But we do have gathering places. Here in Culpeper, one example is Wal-Mart. It seems every time Carrie comes home from doing her weekly grocery shopping, she tells about seeing some friends.
One of City on a Hill Church's first organized Kindness Outreaches was a Dollar-Drop at Wal-Mart. Carrie, the girls and I walked around Wal-Mart and randomly and conspicuously dropped dollar bills on the floor of the store. Each bill was attached to a card that read
"This $1 is to give you just a little help today.
It's to show you God's love for you in a practical way."
It's to show you God's love for you in a practical way."
We dropped fifty of those bills and cards all over the store.
Since then, we've used Wal-Mart as our venue to hand out carnations to ladies on Valentine's Day and host a wellness check in partnership with the Lion's Club. In fact, Wal-Mart has even awarded COAHC with small grants for the last two years to be used in our community.
Jesus engaged culture on their turf. Let's open our eyes to the opportunities that are around us. Let's get out of our church buildings, find those wells in our communities and engage our communities with the love of Christ.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Hearing From God
In honor of being in Culpeper and blogging for two years about the experience of planting City on a Hill Church, I've been re-posting some of my favorite posts from those first few weeks in 2008.
Hearing From God (July 23, 2008)
After being in Culpeper a month, my wife and I are still getting an opportunity to share our story of God's call on our life to move here from beautiful San Diego. Some people praise God for His call to build His kingdom in Culpeper. Still others listen with skeptical ears. It's the latter group that I'd like to address in this post.
It's interesting to me to watch the skeptics' reactions and hear the tone in their voice when we share our story and calling. I guess there are many people that believe God wouldn't choose ordinary people like us for a radical calling like this. Hmmm... I seem to recall a similar story when a man from Nazareth called some pretty ordinary people to do some extraordinary things about 2000 years ago. The fact is that God has chosen ordinary people to do extraordinary things from the beginning of time. Why do some folks seem to have such a difficulty with that concept? I have a few ideas, I suppose.
As for me, I'm fired up about what the Lord is doing. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that He's going to do amazing things in and through City On A Hill Church. In fact, He already has, and we haven't even officially launched yet!
So, what's the standard for success in this situation? Does COAHC have to have 200 members by 2010 in order for those doubters to say, "Okay, I was wrong. The Damerons' move to Culpeper was in response to an authentic call of God." Does COAHC have to have 20 converts and baptisms before 4Q2009? What's the standard that these people are using? And how does that compare to what God's standard is?
My family and I stand in agreement that the Father still speaks to His children. What kind of Father would He be if He didn't? He still uses people who are willing to submit their lives to Him. What kind of God would He be if He didn't?
We're not interested in putting God in a box. We don't put limits on what God's will is and whom He chooses to do it. We're blessed to be called by God. We're blessed to be in Culpeper doing His work for His glory! I wish everyone could have a taste of that kind of adventure... that kind of relationship with the Almighty... that kind of radical life change... that kind of success!
Hearing From God (July 23, 2008)
After being in Culpeper a month, my wife and I are still getting an opportunity to share our story of God's call on our life to move here from beautiful San Diego. Some people praise God for His call to build His kingdom in Culpeper. Still others listen with skeptical ears. It's the latter group that I'd like to address in this post.
It's interesting to me to watch the skeptics' reactions and hear the tone in their voice when we share our story and calling. I guess there are many people that believe God wouldn't choose ordinary people like us for a radical calling like this. Hmmm... I seem to recall a similar story when a man from Nazareth called some pretty ordinary people to do some extraordinary things about 2000 years ago. The fact is that God has chosen ordinary people to do extraordinary things from the beginning of time. Why do some folks seem to have such a difficulty with that concept? I have a few ideas, I suppose.
As for me, I'm fired up about what the Lord is doing. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that He's going to do amazing things in and through City On A Hill Church. In fact, He already has, and we haven't even officially launched yet!
So, what's the standard for success in this situation? Does COAHC have to have 200 members by 2010 in order for those doubters to say, "Okay, I was wrong. The Damerons' move to Culpeper was in response to an authentic call of God." Does COAHC have to have 20 converts and baptisms before 4Q2009? What's the standard that these people are using? And how does that compare to what God's standard is?
My family and I stand in agreement that the Father still speaks to His children. What kind of Father would He be if He didn't? He still uses people who are willing to submit their lives to Him. What kind of God would He be if He didn't?
We're not interested in putting God in a box. We don't put limits on what God's will is and whom He chooses to do it. We're blessed to be called by God. We're blessed to be in Culpeper doing His work for His glory! I wish everyone could have a taste of that kind of adventure... that kind of relationship with the Almighty... that kind of radical life change... that kind of success!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Problems Just Don't Disappear on Their Own
The oil spill in the Gulf by the BP rig has become a conversation piece in most homes and watering holes around the country at this point. I don't claim to be the most educated person in the world on what's going on with this disaster, but it seems to me that it's taking an unusually long time for the source of the spill to be fixed.
This situation reminds me of how a lot of us have a tendency to ignore struggles and problems in our lives, hoping they'll either not get any worse or just go away all together. Sorry. Those things just don't happen.
If a problem is ignored, it only gets worse. Just look at the oil spill as an example. And I'm afraid what we've seen so far is only the tip of the iceberg of all the problems that will come our way ecologically and economically.
If you're facing a problem, the best solution is to get some help in dealing with it. Find someone who can give you mature, wise counsel. Find someone who can hold you accountable. Don't ignore it. Problems just don't disappear on their own.
This situation reminds me of how a lot of us have a tendency to ignore struggles and problems in our lives, hoping they'll either not get any worse or just go away all together. Sorry. Those things just don't happen.
If a problem is ignored, it only gets worse. Just look at the oil spill as an example. And I'm afraid what we've seen so far is only the tip of the iceberg of all the problems that will come our way ecologically and economically.
If you're facing a problem, the best solution is to get some help in dealing with it. Find someone who can give you mature, wise counsel. Find someone who can hold you accountable. Don't ignore it. Problems just don't disappear on their own.
Accepting Christ
The event I was most excited to report in 2008 was this...
Accepting Christ (July 23, 2008)
My oldest daughter, Abby Rae (5 yrs old), made a life-changing decision on her own this weekend. She told her mommy and me, "I accepted Jesus into my heart last night," very matter of factly. That was the best news I could have heard on a Saturday!
Abby Rae is fairly independent, so it was no surprise that her decision was made in the quietness of her own heart after we put her and her sisters to bed. I'm just reminded of how blessed we are to have children being raised in a Christian home who will know the Lord and know God's Word at an early age. They won't be shielded from life's issues, but they'll have God's strength in their lives to deal with them. That's more than what my wife and I had growing up! What a blessing!
Accepting Christ (July 23, 2008)
My oldest daughter, Abby Rae (5 yrs old), made a life-changing decision on her own this weekend. She told her mommy and me, "I accepted Jesus into my heart last night," very matter of factly. That was the best news I could have heard on a Saturday!
Abby Rae is fairly independent, so it was no surprise that her decision was made in the quietness of her own heart after we put her and her sisters to bed. I'm just reminded of how blessed we are to have children being raised in a Christian home who will know the Lord and know God's Word at an early age. They won't be shielded from life's issues, but they'll have God's strength in their lives to deal with them. That's more than what my wife and I had growing up! What a blessing!
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Lawn Mowing for the Lord
This was COAHC's first unofficial kindness ministry outreach!
Sound weird? I thought so, too... at first. I remember our realtor telling us when we first started looking at houses in Culpeper not to consider the neighborhood where we eventually bought our home. "Why?" I asked. She reminded me that with all the foreclosures, homes typically aren't maintained well and the pride of ownership can be lost in a neighborhood resulting in more downward spiraling property values. Certainly makes sense to me. Ultimately, we took our chances, moved into the neighborhood anyway. And I'm really glad we did!
Today will go down as one of the milestones for City on a Hill Church (COAHC). It was an "A-ha!" moment for me. What if I (and, perhaps soon, other people from COAHC) went around our communities and maintained lawns at foreclosed homes? The eyesore of 18 inch lawns disappearing somehow has an incredible effect on people. That's God's love getting relevant in people's lives. That's the fourth foundation of purpose for COAHC: serving our community in practical and relevant ways, demonstrating that God's love is abundant and He cares about the details of our lives.
I mowed the lawn of the house across the street from me today and two neighbors came out to bring me water and ice tea. What an opportunity for God's Light to shine! I look forward to seeing the fruit of this labor.
Lawn Mowing for the Lord
Today will go down as one of the milestones for City on a Hill Church (COAHC). It was an "A-ha!" moment for me. What if I (and, perhaps soon, other people from COAHC) went around our communities and maintained lawns at foreclosed homes? The eyesore of 18 inch lawns disappearing somehow has an incredible effect on people. That's God's love getting relevant in people's lives. That's the fourth foundation of purpose for COAHC: serving our community in practical and relevant ways, demonstrating that God's love is abundant and He cares about the details of our lives.
I mowed the lawn of the house across the street from me today and two neighbors came out to bring me water and ice tea. What an opportunity for God's Light to shine! I look forward to seeing the fruit of this labor.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Surround Sound
Remember the old televisions and the portable tape player called "Walkman"?
Technology has advanced what seems like light years since then. One of the biggest advances is in the way we hear recordings. Back in the day, we used to listen to everything in "Mono" sound. It wasn't until the 1990's or so that we began to see a shift in practically everything going to "Stereo" sound. More recently, Stereo sound evolved into Surround Sound. Multiple speakers are set up around the listener in order for the audio to be heard with a 3-D effect.
I think most of us begin our relationship with God by hearing Him only in a Mono sound way. We hear Him only when we're praying or reading the Bible. As our relationship develops, we begin to hear Him in Stereo sound. Multiple sources provide the voice of God, speaking into our lives. I think most of us stop at that point. Our goal, of course, is to hear Him in Surround sound.
Jesus promised us that He would never leave us. We know that He desires to have a relationship with us. Isn't the foundation of a relationship communication? Therefore, we should be able to hear God's voice all around us anytime and anyplace. Let's set up our speakers and subwoofers so that God's voice becomes 3-D in our lives!
Logging On
It was two years ago that Carrie, the girls and I moved to Culpeper and began the process of planting City on a Hill Church. Upon our arrival, I created this blog in order to journal as well as encourage others in our community (and anywhere else, for that matter). In observance of two years in the 'Pep, I'm going to re-publish some of the first posts that appeared on The View.
Logging On (June 30, 2008)
OK, so here's my first post...
Carrie, the girls and I arrived in Culpeper on Father's Day (Sunday, June 16). We spent the first week "camping out" as we waited for our furniture to arrive. It finally showed up on the following Saturday.
Much has happened in our first two weeks here - too much to tell here. So, here's a quick recap:
-We love our home in Culpeper! It's perfect in so many ways!!
-We immediately started making our house into *our* home by purchasing some new furnishings, appliances, etc.
-Our second night here, we had a little impromptu block party in our front yard as several of our neighbors came over to introduce themselves. We live in a great neighborhood with wonderful people. The girls are excited because they have Dominic (3 yrs old) next door and Jase and Cove (2 yrs and 4 yrs) behind us.
-It's so nice that everything we need is no more than a 5 minute drive. No more freeway driving just to go to the grocery store!
We went to Hazel River Assembly of God Church yesterday. The girls had fun in the kids' church singing praise songs and learning about Sampson. Pastor Steve Dodson and I finally met after exchanging emails in March and April. His message was "God has you in the right place at the right time!" Boy! What a great first message for Carrie and I to hear after moving across the country. Just when we begin to feel those little doubts clawing their way into our minds, God confirms that the call on our lives to come to Culpeper is authentic and something great is going to come of this!!
I spent much of the morning touching base and scheduling coffee and lunch times with those folks in the community with whom I made contact prior to our move. God has put me in touch with some people that are really plugged into the scene here, so I'm confident that He will use these relationships. I'm excited to see what happens over the next few weeks.
Logging On (June 30, 2008)
OK, so here's my first post...
Carrie, the girls and I arrived in Culpeper on Father's Day (Sunday, June 16). We spent the first week "camping out" as we waited for our furniture to arrive. It finally showed up on the following Saturday.
Much has happened in our first two weeks here - too much to tell here. So, here's a quick recap:
-We love our home in Culpeper! It's perfect in so many ways!!
-We immediately started making our house into *our* home by purchasing some new furnishings, appliances, etc.
-Our second night here, we had a little impromptu block party in our front yard as several of our neighbors came over to introduce themselves. We live in a great neighborhood with wonderful people. The girls are excited because they have Dominic (3 yrs old) next door and Jase and Cove (2 yrs and 4 yrs) behind us.
-It's so nice that everything we need is no more than a 5 minute drive. No more freeway driving just to go to the grocery store!
We went to Hazel River Assembly of God Church yesterday. The girls had fun in the kids' church singing praise songs and learning about Sampson. Pastor Steve Dodson and I finally met after exchanging emails in March and April. His message was "God has you in the right place at the right time!" Boy! What a great first message for Carrie and I to hear after moving across the country. Just when we begin to feel those little doubts clawing their way into our minds, God confirms that the call on our lives to come to Culpeper is authentic and something great is going to come of this!!
I spent much of the morning touching base and scheduling coffee and lunch times with those folks in the community with whom I made contact prior to our move. God has put me in touch with some people that are really plugged into the scene here, so I'm confident that He will use these relationships. I'm excited to see what happens over the next few weeks.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
What We Want
A healthy relationship has tension. It can be tension of a variety of sorts, but usually in a marriage, the tension has something to do with relationship and work. Men are, by nature, goal-oriented and task-driven. We allow our job and success in that job to define our identity. Women, on the other hand, are more relationship-oriented.
Seventy percent of married women would rather endure financial struggles than a lack of closeness in their marriage. (Source: For Men Only by Shaunti and Jeff Feldhahn, Multnomah, 2006)
The tension that exists should propel men to meet the relational needs of their family and allow women to see the value of work, goals and tasks in a man's life. Healthy tension creates a give- and-take that involves communication and compromise that is other-centered.
Ladies, men want to provide for you and give you the world. Men, ladies would rather have you than anything else. Let the tension bring you together instead of drive you apart.
Seventy percent of married women would rather endure financial struggles than a lack of closeness in their marriage. (Source: For Men Only by Shaunti and Jeff Feldhahn, Multnomah, 2006)
The tension that exists should propel men to meet the relational needs of their family and allow women to see the value of work, goals and tasks in a man's life. Healthy tension creates a give- and-take that involves communication and compromise that is other-centered.
Ladies, men want to provide for you and give you the world. Men, ladies would rather have you than anything else. Let the tension bring you together instead of drive you apart.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Hearing and Listening
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. Deuteronomy 6:4-5 NIV
Let's face it. We hear a lot of things. But we only listen to some of it. When God spoke the passage in Deuteronomy known as The Shema to his people and Jesus echoed it again, the sentiment wasn't for us simply to hear him. There's an understood command within the opening phrase. In other words, God was saying "Understand and obey these things..."
The Jews were on to something when they began to implement phylacteries into their wardrobe and hang a mezuzah on their doorframes. What great reminders that we have a loving God who desires our love in return. Christians use paraphernalia like t-shirts, stickers and the occasional Scripture hanging on the refrigerator as reminders. But are these sufficient to remind us each and every day that we are to love our God with all of our heart, soul and strength? We need to be on our guard to protect ourselves and our home from the infiltration of the world and its values. Do we have the mechanisms in place to remind us of this danger? Or do we simply wait for something to happen, and then respond. Perhaps we should become a little more proactive in our approach than reactive. Perhaps we should spend a little more effort into understanding and obeying God's command of loving Him with everything that we are instead of simply hearing the command.
Let's face it. We hear a lot of things. But we only listen to some of it. When God spoke the passage in Deuteronomy known as The Shema to his people and Jesus echoed it again, the sentiment wasn't for us simply to hear him. There's an understood command within the opening phrase. In other words, God was saying "Understand and obey these things..."
The Jews were on to something when they began to implement phylacteries into their wardrobe and hang a mezuzah on their doorframes. What great reminders that we have a loving God who desires our love in return. Christians use paraphernalia like t-shirts, stickers and the occasional Scripture hanging on the refrigerator as reminders. But are these sufficient to remind us each and every day that we are to love our God with all of our heart, soul and strength? We need to be on our guard to protect ourselves and our home from the infiltration of the world and its values. Do we have the mechanisms in place to remind us of this danger? Or do we simply wait for something to happen, and then respond. Perhaps we should become a little more proactive in our approach than reactive. Perhaps we should spend a little more effort into understanding and obeying God's command of loving Him with everything that we are instead of simply hearing the command.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Reformation
Have you noticed? We're in the midst of a reformation.
Not unlike the reformation of the 16th century, the Church is changing dramatically as a result of this reformation. The face of evangelicalism is shifting from the image of Billy Graham to a mosaic of those who comprise the Church today: those whose voices we hear on the radio, the faces we see on TV. More importantly, the mosaic includes you and me.
The Church is shifting from a self-centered, consumer-driven corporation to a Christ-worshiping, other-centered, missional operation with purpose and fresh inspiration. It no longer solely depends on the person standing behind the pulpit on Sunday morning, but involves the hands and feet of those sitting in the chairs and pews. Christians are standing up and shouting, "Here am I, Lord. Send me!" The tradition and rituals of our local church heritage are no longer our identity, and our faith is being lived out where the rubber meets the road.
Legalism and pomp and circumstance are being destroyed by grace and the realization that we're all just a bunch of sinners in need of a Savior. It's no longer about what's on the surface. It's the transformation on the inside that matters the most. Church is taking on a new definition, or dare I say an old one. It's no longer a building with a steeple. It's a gathering of people who have proclaimed Jesus Christ as Savior, Redeemer, Lord and King.
We're in the midst of a reformation. Have you noticed?
Not unlike the reformation of the 16th century, the Church is changing dramatically as a result of this reformation. The face of evangelicalism is shifting from the image of Billy Graham to a mosaic of those who comprise the Church today: those whose voices we hear on the radio, the faces we see on TV. More importantly, the mosaic includes you and me.
The Church is shifting from a self-centered, consumer-driven corporation to a Christ-worshiping, other-centered, missional operation with purpose and fresh inspiration. It no longer solely depends on the person standing behind the pulpit on Sunday morning, but involves the hands and feet of those sitting in the chairs and pews. Christians are standing up and shouting, "Here am I, Lord. Send me!" The tradition and rituals of our local church heritage are no longer our identity, and our faith is being lived out where the rubber meets the road.
Legalism and pomp and circumstance are being destroyed by grace and the realization that we're all just a bunch of sinners in need of a Savior. It's no longer about what's on the surface. It's the transformation on the inside that matters the most. Church is taking on a new definition, or dare I say an old one. It's no longer a building with a steeple. It's a gathering of people who have proclaimed Jesus Christ as Savior, Redeemer, Lord and King.
We're in the midst of a reformation. Have you noticed?
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Be a Good Coach
For about ten years in Southern California, I coached high school cross-country and track and field. It was a thrill to coach teenagers in sports that I loved so passionately. Tom Landry's definition of coaching echoes the sentiments I learned during my coaching tenure: getting people to do things they don't want to do.
Let's face it. How many teenagers really want to go run ten miles on a hot summer morning instead of sleeping in? How many people really want to run hill repeats during the October Indian Summer heat of San Diego? The thing is, though, you can't get the victory without the work. No one wins the Championship without logging all the miles.
As parents, we face a similar battle. We're constantly coaching our kids - asking them to do things they don't really want to do. I'm not just talking about the chores around the house either. I'm talking about the important stuff: studying the Bible, carving out quality time for prayer in a busy life and serving others when it requires sacrifice.
It's not just parents, though, who face this challenge. It's any leader in any church, family or organization. There is a lot we can learn from good coaches. John Wooden, probably the best coach who ever lived, died recently. John is remembered at least as much for his approach to coaching people and the impact he had on so many as the victories he racked up during his days as the Wizard of Westwood.
Let's learn how to be good coaches. Let's learn how to motivate people to do the tough things that don't seem very fun at first glance. Let's remind those in our lives that we don't get the victory without the hard work.
Let's face it. How many teenagers really want to go run ten miles on a hot summer morning instead of sleeping in? How many people really want to run hill repeats during the October Indian Summer heat of San Diego? The thing is, though, you can't get the victory without the work. No one wins the Championship without logging all the miles.
As parents, we face a similar battle. We're constantly coaching our kids - asking them to do things they don't really want to do. I'm not just talking about the chores around the house either. I'm talking about the important stuff: studying the Bible, carving out quality time for prayer in a busy life and serving others when it requires sacrifice.
It's not just parents, though, who face this challenge. It's any leader in any church, family or organization. There is a lot we can learn from good coaches. John Wooden, probably the best coach who ever lived, died recently. John is remembered at least as much for his approach to coaching people and the impact he had on so many as the victories he racked up during his days as the Wizard of Westwood.
Let's learn how to be good coaches. Let's learn how to motivate people to do the tough things that don't seem very fun at first glance. Let's remind those in our lives that we don't get the victory without the hard work.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Golf = Life With Christ
I played golf yesterday with a few friends. It's amazing what a difference slight adjustments can make. It's also incredible how significantly a lack of focus can impact how straight the ball goes.
Several times yesterday, I found myself trying to hit the ball out of awkward situations. My ball landed on the edge of the treeline one time and I had branches hanging down all around me. The branches distracted me, and I just couldn't focus on hitting the ball. Guess what happened! I hardly hit the ball at all, and it rolled about 15 feet in front of me. At least I was out of the woods!
Life with Christ is a lot like the golf game I played yesterday. Making adjustments and focus are very important in our lives.
When I take my eyes off of Christ and get distracted by life's ups and downs, I can really miss the sweet spot God wants for me. If I'm in the midst of a trial, God may want me to make an adjustment. If I don't, guess what... It takes a little longer to get to where I want to go.
Several times yesterday, I found myself trying to hit the ball out of awkward situations. My ball landed on the edge of the treeline one time and I had branches hanging down all around me. The branches distracted me, and I just couldn't focus on hitting the ball. Guess what happened! I hardly hit the ball at all, and it rolled about 15 feet in front of me. At least I was out of the woods!
Life with Christ is a lot like the golf game I played yesterday. Making adjustments and focus are very important in our lives.
When I take my eyes off of Christ and get distracted by life's ups and downs, I can really miss the sweet spot God wants for me. If I'm in the midst of a trial, God may want me to make an adjustment. If I don't, guess what... It takes a little longer to get to where I want to go.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Known For Something
What is your church known for in your community?
Every local congregation got its start (or should have, anyway) because God called a person or group of people together with a specific vision on how to reach people for Christ in that particular community. In other words, each and every church should have a niche in its community that is unique and specific to that particular group of believers doing ministry.
There are some who would start a church for the wrong reasons. Here are just a few wrong reasons to start a church:
-"There isn't any presence of our denomination in this community, so let's go plant a church there.
-"I need a job/steady income, so I'm going to plant a church in this community."
-"___ church is really successful in that community over there, and there's nothing like that here, so I'm going to plant that kind of church in this community."
First things first. Make sure the call is from God and not from your own personal desires for attention, prestige or greed. Make sure the vision for your church plant is the vision for your church plant, and not someone else's vision. Lastly, make sure your church is fulfilling a unique role in your community. We don't need churches on every corner just for the sake of having more churches.
Every local congregation got its start (or should have, anyway) because God called a person or group of people together with a specific vision on how to reach people for Christ in that particular community. In other words, each and every church should have a niche in its community that is unique and specific to that particular group of believers doing ministry.
There are some who would start a church for the wrong reasons. Here are just a few wrong reasons to start a church:
-"There isn't any presence of our denomination in this community, so let's go plant a church there.
-"I need a job/steady income, so I'm going to plant a church in this community."
-"___ church is really successful in that community over there, and there's nothing like that here, so I'm going to plant that kind of church in this community."
First things first. Make sure the call is from God and not from your own personal desires for attention, prestige or greed. Make sure the vision for your church plant is the vision for your church plant, and not someone else's vision. Lastly, make sure your church is fulfilling a unique role in your community. We don't need churches on every corner just for the sake of having more churches.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Vision and Relationships
One of the important lessons I've learned in ministry is that vision may well attract people, but relationships are what keep people loyal. For some of us, especially those of us who have prophetic tendencies, vision can be so very important. The Lord can give us a vision that is nothing less than divinely inspired. Before we know it, our whole lives are consumed with fulfilling this vision.
New, fresh vision excites people and attracts support, encouragement and helping hands. There will be a time when that vision isn't so new and fresh anymore. Even though it remains a divinely inspired vision, people will get tired of fulfilling the vision because the work is probably hard, much perseverance is required and sacrifice is a big part of it. Let's face it. That triple play gets old after a while.
For those of us who are leading, relationships with our co-laborers have to be just as important as the vision itself. After all, aren't we dealing with people? From the beginning, we must invest ourselves into relationships. If the relationship is stable and fruitful, people are less likely to walk away from the vision. If the vision is the top priority and the only priority, it's only a matter of time before you'll be by yourself.
New, fresh vision excites people and attracts support, encouragement and helping hands. There will be a time when that vision isn't so new and fresh anymore. Even though it remains a divinely inspired vision, people will get tired of fulfilling the vision because the work is probably hard, much perseverance is required and sacrifice is a big part of it. Let's face it. That triple play gets old after a while.
For those of us who are leading, relationships with our co-laborers have to be just as important as the vision itself. After all, aren't we dealing with people? From the beginning, we must invest ourselves into relationships. If the relationship is stable and fruitful, people are less likely to walk away from the vision. If the vision is the top priority and the only priority, it's only a matter of time before you'll be by yourself.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Koinonia Fellowship
They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42 NIV
Notice that the early Church considered some things of great importance: growing in their knowledge of God through learning from the apostles, prayer, observing the sacrament of communion and to fellowship. The Greek word used here for fellowship is koinonia. It refers to three very important components of life among the believers in the early Church: intimate fellowship, participation and sharing.
Koinonia means intimate fellowship. It means that you are a part of other lives and they are part of yours. In our culture, that simply means you have to spend time with people and invest in them. Believe it or not, I'm an introvert, and I understand how difficult that can be. However, I understand what God wants for me, and I make it a priority in my life over the busyness of my schedule and my comfort level.
Koinonia means participation in the body of the local church. If you're not serving in your local church, you need to find a way to participate. I've never heard of a church that doesn't have needs for servants to use their gifts and talents in a way to serve the body.
Finally, koinonia means sharing. In the early Church, Acts 2 tells us that they sold their possessions and gave as others had need. When was the last time you truly sacrificed an important resource for someone's need - time, energy, money?
As I said yesterday during the sermon, if you haven't invested yourself in at least 4 or 5 other people in your local church, you need to repent! And, no, it doesn't count if one family has that many members. We're talking 4 or 5 different people. That's what koinonia is all about.
Notice that the early Church considered some things of great importance: growing in their knowledge of God through learning from the apostles, prayer, observing the sacrament of communion and to fellowship. The Greek word used here for fellowship is koinonia. It refers to three very important components of life among the believers in the early Church: intimate fellowship, participation and sharing.
Koinonia means intimate fellowship. It means that you are a part of other lives and they are part of yours. In our culture, that simply means you have to spend time with people and invest in them. Believe it or not, I'm an introvert, and I understand how difficult that can be. However, I understand what God wants for me, and I make it a priority in my life over the busyness of my schedule and my comfort level.
Koinonia means participation in the body of the local church. If you're not serving in your local church, you need to find a way to participate. I've never heard of a church that doesn't have needs for servants to use their gifts and talents in a way to serve the body.
Finally, koinonia means sharing. In the early Church, Acts 2 tells us that they sold their possessions and gave as others had need. When was the last time you truly sacrificed an important resource for someone's need - time, energy, money?
As I said yesterday during the sermon, if you haven't invested yourself in at least 4 or 5 other people in your local church, you need to repent! And, no, it doesn't count if one family has that many members. We're talking 4 or 5 different people. That's what koinonia is all about.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Opportunities for Raising Money for Kindness
City on a Hill Church has created a couple of opportunities for anyone and everyone to help raise a few dollars for our Kindness Ministry. Through our Kindness Ministry, we conduct neighborhood outreaches as well as support local missionaries such as Young Life and The Pregnancy Centers of Virginia.
The first opportunity comes from the generosity of Chili's restaurant. On Monday, May 24, the Chili's restaurant in Culpeper will donate 10-20% of each food bill back to COAHC for all patrons who bring this flyer with them for lunch, dinner or dessert. This goes on all day long!
The second opportunity comes from GoodSearch - a Yahoo powered search engine that also offers online shopping. From May 19 at 12noon through May 21 at 12noon (Eastern), $1 will be donated to COAHC for every GoodSearch toolbar downloaded at a unique ISP address. Go here to download the toolbar.
Thanks to all who participate in these opportunities to raise funds for our Kindness Ministry - showing God's love in practical ways!!!
The first opportunity comes from the generosity of Chili's restaurant. On Monday, May 24, the Chili's restaurant in Culpeper will donate 10-20% of each food bill back to COAHC for all patrons who bring this flyer with them for lunch, dinner or dessert. This goes on all day long!The second opportunity comes from GoodSearch - a Yahoo powered search engine that also offers online shopping. From May 19 at 12noon through May 21 at 12noon (Eastern), $1 will be donated to COAHC for every GoodSearch toolbar downloaded at a unique ISP address. Go here to download the toolbar.
Thanks to all who participate in these opportunities to raise funds for our Kindness Ministry - showing God's love in practical ways!!!
Friday, May 14, 2010
Megachurch vs. Smaller Church
Megachurches are so 80’s and 90’s! I think there is definitely a transition going on in America that seems to indicates churches are growing larger to smaller. People want/need to feel like they are more than just a number. They want to be connected to others in the church as well their leadership. Smaller churches afford this opportunity much more effectively than larger churches.
After reading this article, I'm even more convinced of this!
Here’s the thing though… Churches need to be careful not to be small just for smallness’ sake. The whole point of the Church is to grow – as that indicates more souls are being saved and lives transformed. However, as a church grows, we must be deliberate about sending and multiplying instead of selfishly holding on for stability and other reasons. I’m a true believer that if a person or church can do ministry in their own strength without relying on God’s provision and intercession, they’re missing out on what He wants. Regardless of size and maturity, people and churches need to pursue ministry that REQUIRES God to show up in miraculous ways to provide resources as well as accomplish the goal of that ministry.
After reading this article, I'm even more convinced of this!
Here’s the thing though… Churches need to be careful not to be small just for smallness’ sake. The whole point of the Church is to grow – as that indicates more souls are being saved and lives transformed. However, as a church grows, we must be deliberate about sending and multiplying instead of selfishly holding on for stability and other reasons. I’m a true believer that if a person or church can do ministry in their own strength without relying on God’s provision and intercession, they’re missing out on what He wants. Regardless of size and maturity, people and churches need to pursue ministry that REQUIRES God to show up in miraculous ways to provide resources as well as accomplish the goal of that ministry.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Directions to COAHC Baptisms
See below for the Google Map that includes directions to Kelly's Ford from COAHC for our baptisms on May 23. Hope this helps!!
We'll also provide directions and a map to all of those in attendance at our Sunday service on the 23rd.
View Larger Map
We'll also provide directions and a map to all of those in attendance at our Sunday service on the 23rd.
View Larger Map
Sunday Morning
This is a funny video that pokes some fun at what a lot of church services look like these days. There is much deliberate attempt to include many of these applications into services around the country. And, yes, even at City on a Hill Church, we are guilty of being purposeful with some of this stuff.
So laugh away and have fun poking fun at yourself and your local church! It's healthy to be able to laugh at yourself!!
So laugh away and have fun poking fun at yourself and your local church! It's healthy to be able to laugh at yourself!!
"Sunday's Coming" Movie Trailer from North Point Media on Vimeo.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Second Saturday!
Tomorrow is Second Saturday!
Everyone is invited!!
Please join us tomorrow as our Kindness Ministry shares God's love in a practical way with our community. City on a Hill Church will be delivering marigold flats to our neighbors along Duke Street. Meet us at COAHC at 1pm to help prepare the flowers and we'll head out to the neighborhood by 2pm. We should be all done by 3 or 3:30.
Such a little investment. Such little requirement. Such a huge impact!
Everyone is invited!!
Please join us tomorrow as our Kindness Ministry shares God's love in a practical way with our community. City on a Hill Church will be delivering marigold flats to our neighbors along Duke Street. Meet us at COAHC at 1pm to help prepare the flowers and we'll head out to the neighborhood by 2pm. We should be all done by 3 or 3:30.
Such a little investment. Such little requirement. Such a huge impact!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
The Missional Church
The Missional Church is on the move. Churches around our country are beginning to understand more completely the call that God has given us in our own communities. Here's what this looks like:
The Missional Church from 30,000 feet-
Faith, by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. James 2:17 NIV
The Missional Church from 10,000 feet-
"Love your neighbor as you love yourself." Matthew 22:39 NIV
The Missional Church on the ground-
"For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me. They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?' He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'" Matthew 25:42-45 NIV
When a church becomes missional, it merely recognizes that God is calling us to not only reach the lost in foreign lands, but to reach those who are lost, hurting and in need in our own communities. It's easy to get so concerned about those in Haiti or China or Africa and forget about the person living right across the street.
That's why every month, City on a Hill Church hosts Second Saturday! by going out into the community to show God's love in practical ways. We want our community to know that God loves them and that we, as the Body of Christ, are here for them. Join us Saturday, May 7 @ 1pm as we distribute marigolds to the homes along Duke Street (behind our church building).
The Missional Church from 30,000 feet-
Faith, by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. James 2:17 NIV
The Missional Church from 10,000 feet-
"Love your neighbor as you love yourself." Matthew 22:39 NIV
The Missional Church on the ground-
"For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me. They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?' He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'" Matthew 25:42-45 NIV
When a church becomes missional, it merely recognizes that God is calling us to not only reach the lost in foreign lands, but to reach those who are lost, hurting and in need in our own communities. It's easy to get so concerned about those in Haiti or China or Africa and forget about the person living right across the street.
That's why every month, City on a Hill Church hosts Second Saturday! by going out into the community to show God's love in practical ways. We want our community to know that God loves them and that we, as the Body of Christ, are here for them. Join us Saturday, May 7 @ 1pm as we distribute marigolds to the homes along Duke Street (behind our church building).
Monday, April 26, 2010
Ministry Through Social Media
Can ministry occur through social media?
Blogs... that's so 7 years ago...
Myspace... that's so 5 years ago...
Facebook... that's so last year...
Twitter... now that's fresh!
Church leaders started with blogs about a decade ago or so. They used as it a way to journal and express their deepest sentiments about God, the Church and ministry in general. Community was found in comments left by the few select who would actually demonstrate their courage by leaving remarks about the blog entry.
Then came Myspace - an inventive way to connect with other people. Sadly, the enemy quickly saw his opportunity to prey on others and infect healthy community interaction.
Facebook was received as the new and improved social website where privacy and protection was upgraded. People developed friendships with old acquaintances from years ago as well as their neighbors. There was a safe, easy way for people to express themselves from behind their monitor. "Come get to know me," shouted the world. "But not too close, only through the distance of the internet."
And now there is Twitter. Community is expressed no longer by friends, but followers. Now, each and every one of us can be leaders! We can lead the world, limited only by profound messages expressed in 140 characters or less.
I have to confess, I've been a part of each and every one of these social media phenomenons. I value them as extensions of the ministry God is doing through me. There's a real danger, though. It's easy to get comfortable doing ministry from a distance - via the safety of the internet. We seem to be saying, "I want to get close to you, but not too close." I truly believe God has used these venues to speak to people and minister to them. Let's face it. I get mentored every day by the top leaders in the Church today, and they don't even know I exist! I connect with my followers by tweeting messages meant to encourage, challenge and lead people to the cross.
Community, connection, relationships, ministry.... Jesus modeled these concepts for us. While we can use all kinds of methods to begin these in our life, there's no substitute for being face-to-face. Let's use social media for God's glory, but let's not forget how and why He designed us - it wasn't to sit behind a computer hiding behind avatars and electrons. We're designed to be the ligaments and tendons, connecting the Body of Christ together through real, not virtual, relationships and community.
Blogs... that's so 7 years ago...
Myspace... that's so 5 years ago...
Facebook... that's so last year...
Twitter... now that's fresh!
Church leaders started with blogs about a decade ago or so. They used as it a way to journal and express their deepest sentiments about God, the Church and ministry in general. Community was found in comments left by the few select who would actually demonstrate their courage by leaving remarks about the blog entry.
Then came Myspace - an inventive way to connect with other people. Sadly, the enemy quickly saw his opportunity to prey on others and infect healthy community interaction.
Facebook was received as the new and improved social website where privacy and protection was upgraded. People developed friendships with old acquaintances from years ago as well as their neighbors. There was a safe, easy way for people to express themselves from behind their monitor. "Come get to know me," shouted the world. "But not too close, only through the distance of the internet."
And now there is Twitter. Community is expressed no longer by friends, but followers. Now, each and every one of us can be leaders! We can lead the world, limited only by profound messages expressed in 140 characters or less.
I have to confess, I've been a part of each and every one of these social media phenomenons. I value them as extensions of the ministry God is doing through me. There's a real danger, though. It's easy to get comfortable doing ministry from a distance - via the safety of the internet. We seem to be saying, "I want to get close to you, but not too close." I truly believe God has used these venues to speak to people and minister to them. Let's face it. I get mentored every day by the top leaders in the Church today, and they don't even know I exist! I connect with my followers by tweeting messages meant to encourage, challenge and lead people to the cross.
Community, connection, relationships, ministry.... Jesus modeled these concepts for us. While we can use all kinds of methods to begin these in our life, there's no substitute for being face-to-face. Let's use social media for God's glory, but let's not forget how and why He designed us - it wasn't to sit behind a computer hiding behind avatars and electrons. We're designed to be the ligaments and tendons, connecting the Body of Christ together through real, not virtual, relationships and community.
Introducing Joseph Moro
City on a Hill Church is sponsoring a child through Compassion International. His name is Joseph Moro. Joseph is four years old and is from Tanzania. Please pray for Joseph and his family. We would love to have all of our church family write him letters on a regular basis. Please simply email the church your letter to be included in our mailings to him. admin(at)cityonahillculpeper(d0t)com
Ministry to Orphans
James wastes no time getting real with his readers. I just love reading his letters to the twelve tribes. He's my kind of preacher. He doesn't tap dance around the issues, but hits them head-on.
The major theme of the book of James is "faith without works is dead." That's the overall point of his letter. James breaks this down a little further though and tells us
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."
James 1:22 NIV
A few verses later, he tells us
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
James 1:27 NIV
James gives us the big picture, but he also gives us some specifics on what our walk with God should look like. Last week, the Lord began to stir in my heart and my wife's heart independently with the same vision for City on a Hill. This vision involves our church ministering to orphans.
We're excited about this vision and what God would do through COAHC. We'll be spending some considerable time praying about what this ministry looks like as we move forward. We're asking our entire church family to please join us in prayer as our leadership begins to follow God's leading in this opportunity to minister to those in need.
The major theme of the book of James is "faith without works is dead." That's the overall point of his letter. James breaks this down a little further though and tells us
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."
James 1:22 NIV
A few verses later, he tells us
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
James 1:27 NIV
James gives us the big picture, but he also gives us some specifics on what our walk with God should look like. Last week, the Lord began to stir in my heart and my wife's heart independently with the same vision for City on a Hill. This vision involves our church ministering to orphans.
We're excited about this vision and what God would do through COAHC. We'll be spending some considerable time praying about what this ministry looks like as we move forward. We're asking our entire church family to please join us in prayer as our leadership begins to follow God's leading in this opportunity to minister to those in need.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Exponential Conference Wrap-Up
A day after my attendance at the Exponential Conference, I’m still digesting everything I heard, saw and experienced for the last few days. It’s a lot to absorb, but this is what I liked and didn't like about the conference.
Top Things I Like From Exponential Conference
• “A church bldg was never meant to be the destination.” - Reggie McNeal
• Mosaix Church worship team leading the plenary group in the classic Doobie Brother's Long Train Running. "Without love..."
• Francis Chan’s message about why he stepped down from his pastoral role at his church in Simi Valley, CA. It completely wrecked me.
• “Apostles need prophets - prophetic intelligence for apostolic architecture.” - Alan Hirsch
• Sharing communion w/ thousands of other pastors/leaders. How inspiring!
• Hanging out with the guys from CMA Mid-Atlantic District.
• “We study the Great Commission, but how many disciples can we point to in our lives? Stop studying and start doing!” Francis Chan
• “If you're loving on a city without sharing the Gospel you're simply making them more comfortable on their way to hell.” - Matt Chandler
• RightNow’s mission: Are you a trader? Trade your dreams for faith in action.
• “Have you decided to follow Christ or did you invite Christ to follow you?” – Mark Batterson
Top Things I Didn’t Like About Exponential Conference
• Consumerism is still rampant in the Church – way too much marketing and promotions going on at this conference. I know it’s a conference, but can we please separate ourselves from the world just a little? Here we have thousands of church planters – many of whom are clueless about what decision to make next – and they’re being pummeled with offers to help their plant be successful. Every workshop promoted books authored by the presenters. Every time I walked through the crowded halls with vendor booths lining both sides, I felt God’s heart breaking. Has this what church planting training and preparation become - just a marketing opportunity for a book sale or contract with a coaching organization?
• One speaker would say one thing and the next speaker would contradict him. When you have dozens of presenters, you’re bound to get diverse opinions. I get that. The main issue I have is that the audience is a group of people who are planting churches (most of them for the first time ever). We’re looking for guidance. Many will leave this conference more confused than they were when they arrived.
• Some workshop presenters were much more interested in promoting their information than answering questions. Workshops by definition are supposed to include adequate time for Q and A. Many of the workshops I attended left only a few minutes at the end and were not able to field and answer the questions church planters had.
• There wasn’t enough emphasis on following God’s leading and too much emphasis on methods, models and coaching from other people who aren’t a part of your community or church plant. Transferable concepts are great, but there’s no substitute to following the prompting of the Holy Spirit. I just didn’t hear that spoken enough from the presenters.
Top Things I Like From Exponential Conference
• “A church bldg was never meant to be the destination.” - Reggie McNeal
• Mosaix Church worship team leading the plenary group in the classic Doobie Brother's Long Train Running. "Without love..."
• Francis Chan’s message about why he stepped down from his pastoral role at his church in Simi Valley, CA. It completely wrecked me.
• “Apostles need prophets - prophetic intelligence for apostolic architecture.” - Alan Hirsch
• Sharing communion w/ thousands of other pastors/leaders. How inspiring!
• Hanging out with the guys from CMA Mid-Atlantic District.
• “We study the Great Commission, but how many disciples can we point to in our lives? Stop studying and start doing!” Francis Chan
• “If you're loving on a city without sharing the Gospel you're simply making them more comfortable on their way to hell.” - Matt Chandler
• RightNow’s mission: Are you a trader? Trade your dreams for faith in action.
• “Have you decided to follow Christ or did you invite Christ to follow you?” – Mark Batterson
Top Things I Didn’t Like About Exponential Conference
• Consumerism is still rampant in the Church – way too much marketing and promotions going on at this conference. I know it’s a conference, but can we please separate ourselves from the world just a little? Here we have thousands of church planters – many of whom are clueless about what decision to make next – and they’re being pummeled with offers to help their plant be successful. Every workshop promoted books authored by the presenters. Every time I walked through the crowded halls with vendor booths lining both sides, I felt God’s heart breaking. Has this what church planting training and preparation become - just a marketing opportunity for a book sale or contract with a coaching organization?
• One speaker would say one thing and the next speaker would contradict him. When you have dozens of presenters, you’re bound to get diverse opinions. I get that. The main issue I have is that the audience is a group of people who are planting churches (most of them for the first time ever). We’re looking for guidance. Many will leave this conference more confused than they were when they arrived.
• Some workshop presenters were much more interested in promoting their information than answering questions. Workshops by definition are supposed to include adequate time for Q and A. Many of the workshops I attended left only a few minutes at the end and were not able to field and answer the questions church planters had.
• There wasn’t enough emphasis on following God’s leading and too much emphasis on methods, models and coaching from other people who aren’t a part of your community or church plant. Transferable concepts are great, but there’s no substitute to following the prompting of the Holy Spirit. I just didn’t hear that spoken enough from the presenters.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Walking In the Same Way
What Francis Chan shared yesterday wrecked me.
On Sunday, Chan stepped down from his 16-year Sr Pastor role at his church in Simi Valley, CA to pursue another adventure to which God is calling his family and him. Beginning this summer, the Chan family will begin ministering to the people of inner city Los Angeles.
Chan told us a story about a youth pastor in San Diego who frequently took people across the border to the slums of Tijuana for purposes of ministry. This youth pastor would immediately be recognized by the people. He would take a cloth and wipe the dirty faces of the children. he would bring them gifts and love on them. Those he took with him often said, "When I was with him, I felt like I was actually with Jesus."
By this we may be sure that we are in him: whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked. 1 John 2:5b-6 ESV
Chan went on to say that his own life - speaking engagements, writing books, traveling, shooting videos, etc. - didn't closely enough resemble who Jesus was. It was time to get back to basics.
There are too many people in the position of leadership in the Church who pursue the wrong kind of success. It's so easy to want to be the leader of a mega church, to get published and be recognized as a celebrity Christian. When, all the while, we're simply supposed to be like Jesus.
When was the last time someone said about spending time with you, "When I was with him, I felt like I was actually with Jesus."?
On Sunday, Chan stepped down from his 16-year Sr Pastor role at his church in Simi Valley, CA to pursue another adventure to which God is calling his family and him. Beginning this summer, the Chan family will begin ministering to the people of inner city Los Angeles.
Chan told us a story about a youth pastor in San Diego who frequently took people across the border to the slums of Tijuana for purposes of ministry. This youth pastor would immediately be recognized by the people. He would take a cloth and wipe the dirty faces of the children. he would bring them gifts and love on them. Those he took with him often said, "When I was with him, I felt like I was actually with Jesus."
By this we may be sure that we are in him: whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked. 1 John 2:5b-6 ESV
Chan went on to say that his own life - speaking engagements, writing books, traveling, shooting videos, etc. - didn't closely enough resemble who Jesus was. It was time to get back to basics.
There are too many people in the position of leadership in the Church who pursue the wrong kind of success. It's so easy to want to be the leader of a mega church, to get published and be recognized as a celebrity Christian. When, all the while, we're simply supposed to be like Jesus.
When was the last time someone said about spending time with you, "When I was with him, I felt like I was actually with Jesus."?
Monday, April 19, 2010
Exponential Conference
This week, I'm at the Exponential Conference in Orlando, FL learning and growing as a pastor and leader. I'm convinced that no one should ever stop learning, no matter what!
Today and tomorrow, I'm attending a Pre-Conference Workshop hosted by Mark Batterson, Matt Chandler and Francis Chan focusing on the concept of being a missional church. I've taken four pages of notes already, but here are just a couple of snippets of some wonderful truth that impacted me today.
"They shall enter My sanctuary; they shall come near to My table to minister to Me and keep My charge. Ezekiel 44:16 NASB (emphasis mine)
Mark Batterson made an important point that many pastors and leaders spend their time ministering for the Lord instead of ministering to the Lord. The difference is that if we're ministering for the Lord, our ministry will eventually outgrow our spititual development. We need to spend more time ministering to the Lord through our personal praise and worship of God.
Matt Chandler made an excellent point about how we, as pastors, encounter too many people who say they've gone to church for twenty years but have never heard the Gospel. Obviously, there are some who simply have not had ears to hear. Sadly, there are many who truly have never heard the full Gospel preached from the pulpit in churches throughout this nation.
The Church must not get too caught up in preaching topical messages that meet socialogical needs and forget to preach the Gospel - over and over again, even to believers. The model is set for us by the Apostle Paul who shares the Gospel message to believers in Romans, 1 Corinthians, Galatians and Ephesians.
Gearing up for tomorrow's conclusion of the workshop with Chan sharing his heart on the subject.
Today and tomorrow, I'm attending a Pre-Conference Workshop hosted by Mark Batterson, Matt Chandler and Francis Chan focusing on the concept of being a missional church. I've taken four pages of notes already, but here are just a couple of snippets of some wonderful truth that impacted me today.
"They shall enter My sanctuary; they shall come near to My table to minister to Me and keep My charge. Ezekiel 44:16 NASB (emphasis mine)
Mark Batterson made an important point that many pastors and leaders spend their time ministering for the Lord instead of ministering to the Lord. The difference is that if we're ministering for the Lord, our ministry will eventually outgrow our spititual development. We need to spend more time ministering to the Lord through our personal praise and worship of God.
Matt Chandler made an excellent point about how we, as pastors, encounter too many people who say they've gone to church for twenty years but have never heard the Gospel. Obviously, there are some who simply have not had ears to hear. Sadly, there are many who truly have never heard the full Gospel preached from the pulpit in churches throughout this nation.
The Church must not get too caught up in preaching topical messages that meet socialogical needs and forget to preach the Gospel - over and over again, even to believers. The model is set for us by the Apostle Paul who shares the Gospel message to believers in Romans, 1 Corinthians, Galatians and Ephesians.
Gearing up for tomorrow's conclusion of the workshop with Chan sharing his heart on the subject.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Commitment
What does commitment mean to you?
In this day and age, commitment means a lot of different things to different people. Commitment in marriage can be "till death do us part" to some and others it simply means "till I get tired of being married to you".
Commitment to family isn't what it used to be either. Yesterday, the world learned about a Tennessee mother who put her adopted son on a plane to return him to Russia because she thought he was too violent.
Commitment in the Church means different things as well. To some, commitment in the Church means "till something else comes along that I like better" or "till you disappoint me".
I think Christians need to be reminded that commitment in the Church is demonstrated by commitment to the Church. I'm not talking about commitment to a building, a name or a denomination. It's commitment to people.
In the context of the local Church, a person needs to make a commitment to a group of people (ie, a local Church) as a result of sharing the vision that God has called them to in that community. Vision is the most important component in making the decision of commitment. Vision dictates where you are, where you are going and how you're going to get there.
In the local Church, commitment will be demonstrated by offering your time, treasure and talent. Each local body of believers needs these three things from all of us to prosper, grow and fulfill the vision to which God has called them. When we give of these three important resources, we're saying, "I am committed to you!"
In this day and age, commitment means a lot of different things to different people. Commitment in marriage can be "till death do us part" to some and others it simply means "till I get tired of being married to you".
Commitment to family isn't what it used to be either. Yesterday, the world learned about a Tennessee mother who put her adopted son on a plane to return him to Russia because she thought he was too violent.
Commitment in the Church means different things as well. To some, commitment in the Church means "till something else comes along that I like better" or "till you disappoint me".
I think Christians need to be reminded that commitment in the Church is demonstrated by commitment to the Church. I'm not talking about commitment to a building, a name or a denomination. It's commitment to people.
In the context of the local Church, a person needs to make a commitment to a group of people (ie, a local Church) as a result of sharing the vision that God has called them to in that community. Vision is the most important component in making the decision of commitment. Vision dictates where you are, where you are going and how you're going to get there.
In the local Church, commitment will be demonstrated by offering your time, treasure and talent. Each local body of believers needs these three things from all of us to prosper, grow and fulfill the vision to which God has called them. When we give of these three important resources, we're saying, "I am committed to you!"
Friday, April 9, 2010
Preaching, Teaching and Serving
In one simple verse in Scripture, we find Jesus' modus operandi - His method of operating - during His earthly ministry. Here it is...
Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.
Matthew 9:35 NIV
Jesus preached the good news of the kingdom. The Greek word for "preached" is kerusso. Think of a herald in a town square, shouting at the top of his lungs the important news for the day. That's the idea behind kerusso. Jesus went around Israel telling people of God.
There's a great Christian company called Kerusso that sells all kinds of Christian clothes and retail items. That's the idea. Share the good news and proclaim the goodness of God in your attitudes, actions and words.
Another part of Jesus' M.O. was teaching. He has charged us with this task as well.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
Matthew 28:19-20 NIV
Jesus didn't tell us to go and make converts. He told us to go and make disciples. You can't disciple someone without imparting wisdom to them, mentoring them and investing in their lives. That's what teaching is all about!
The other thing we see Jesus doing a lot of during His earthly ministry was healing. He performed all kinds of miracles, but healing was something special. We see very clearly that when Jesus healed someone, he was meeting a need. He was serving that person practically.
...just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28 NIV
When you and I can find a way to serve someone and meet a practical need, we're imitating the model that Jesus set for us. It doesn't always have to be miraculous in terms of healing or multiplying loaves and fish supernaturally. It can be as simple as buying groceries for a family in need, providing a warm, dry, safe place for someone to sleep or caring for someone who is ill.
Jesus was preaching, teaching and serving. He was, is and will always be our model for ministry. Preaching, teaching and serving need to become the M.O. for the Church today.
Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.
Matthew 9:35 NIV
Jesus preached the good news of the kingdom. The Greek word for "preached" is kerusso. Think of a herald in a town square, shouting at the top of his lungs the important news for the day. That's the idea behind kerusso. Jesus went around Israel telling people of God.
There's a great Christian company called Kerusso that sells all kinds of Christian clothes and retail items. That's the idea. Share the good news and proclaim the goodness of God in your attitudes, actions and words.
Another part of Jesus' M.O. was teaching. He has charged us with this task as well.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
Matthew 28:19-20 NIV
Jesus didn't tell us to go and make converts. He told us to go and make disciples. You can't disciple someone without imparting wisdom to them, mentoring them and investing in their lives. That's what teaching is all about!
The other thing we see Jesus doing a lot of during His earthly ministry was healing. He performed all kinds of miracles, but healing was something special. We see very clearly that when Jesus healed someone, he was meeting a need. He was serving that person practically.
...just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28 NIV
When you and I can find a way to serve someone and meet a practical need, we're imitating the model that Jesus set for us. It doesn't always have to be miraculous in terms of healing or multiplying loaves and fish supernaturally. It can be as simple as buying groceries for a family in need, providing a warm, dry, safe place for someone to sleep or caring for someone who is ill.
Jesus was preaching, teaching and serving. He was, is and will always be our model for ministry. Preaching, teaching and serving need to become the M.O. for the Church today.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Rug Pulled Out From Underneath You
It always seems to work like this. You're on top of the world. You've tasted sweet victory. Then, BAM! It comes seemingly out of nowhere.
In our lives as Christ followers, we need to expect some rough patches that immediately follow the mountain-top experiences. This is when the enemy likes to hit us the hardest. We seem most vulnerable when things are going well. God will use these experiences to test us as well - test our character, our resolve and test where our focus is.
The same happened with Jesus. He had just been baptized and had a miraculous encounter with His Father in heaven. The Holy Spirit descended in the form of a dove, and God spoke audibly, "This is my Son, in whom I am well pleased." From that victorious experience with the other members of the Trinity, Jesus embarked upon His 40-day wilderness experience where He was tempted and tested in the most powerful ways.
We read of a similar experience with Elijah. Elijah has victory over the prophets of Baal on Mt. Carmel. It seems nothing could take the courage from this great prophet... except Queen Jezebel's threat of his life. Elijah, on the heels of a great victory and mountain-top experience, is faced with a great test.
Many of us experienced victory this weekend in our worship of Christ's resurrection. God did miracles in our lives and revealed Himself more to us. Now, we should expect Satan to attack. Now, we should expect the testing to begin. Don't be caught off guard. Instead put on the armor of God and be prepared to engage in spiritual warfare. Proverbs 3:5-6 gives us the best instruction for this time:
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
In our lives as Christ followers, we need to expect some rough patches that immediately follow the mountain-top experiences. This is when the enemy likes to hit us the hardest. We seem most vulnerable when things are going well. God will use these experiences to test us as well - test our character, our resolve and test where our focus is.
The same happened with Jesus. He had just been baptized and had a miraculous encounter with His Father in heaven. The Holy Spirit descended in the form of a dove, and God spoke audibly, "This is my Son, in whom I am well pleased." From that victorious experience with the other members of the Trinity, Jesus embarked upon His 40-day wilderness experience where He was tempted and tested in the most powerful ways.
We read of a similar experience with Elijah. Elijah has victory over the prophets of Baal on Mt. Carmel. It seems nothing could take the courage from this great prophet... except Queen Jezebel's threat of his life. Elijah, on the heels of a great victory and mountain-top experience, is faced with a great test.
Many of us experienced victory this weekend in our worship of Christ's resurrection. God did miracles in our lives and revealed Himself more to us. Now, we should expect Satan to attack. Now, we should expect the testing to begin. Don't be caught off guard. Instead put on the armor of God and be prepared to engage in spiritual warfare. Proverbs 3:5-6 gives us the best instruction for this time:
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Weekend Reflections - Easter 2010
There was a certain anticipation all week leading up to yesterday's service. It wasn't necessarily about the fact that it would be one of our largest services in our short two-year history of a church, although we were all excited about that. It wasn't necessarily about making sure our T's were crossed and I's dotted, although our staff, leaders and volunteers had done an incredible job making sure those things were done. It was about how many people would make life-changing and Kingdom-changing decisions - not if, but how many.
The message the Lord gave me wasn't exactly the message I was wanting to deliver. After all, it's Easter - a time when you ordinarily share a message of triumph and hope to people in light of the resurrected Jesus. No, instead, the Lord gave me a message that didn't exactly shout "good vibes." The message I shared was a no-holds-barred, pull-out-all-the-stops, "If you don't know Jesus, you're going to hell" message.
Really? Really, Lord? You really want me to share this message on Easter?
I submitted, and there it was. God did His thing in spite of me and now there are more names in the Book of Life. God really does know what He's doing!
The Lord spoke to me yesterday in a reassuring voice, "If you're not preaching to save souls or transform lives, why are you preaching?" It was a gentle reminder that God not only understands my struggles as a pastor, but He has sent me to do His will, not mine. I'm not in this for me. It's all about Jesus and bringing people to Him!
So, our Easter service was our best so far. Our attendance was just a few shy of 100 people - a record for us. Our offering was at record-level with a significant portion going towards expenses for two young men who are local missionaries from our Church family. We had 10 people make decisions for the Lord, and we are set up to baptize about a dozen people on April 18.
To some, this may seem like a drop in the bucket. To City on a Hill Church, this is who we are and this is where we're going. We will continue to be bold in following Christ at all costs in order for His Kingdom to be built in Culpeper one person at a time, one soul at a time.
The message the Lord gave me wasn't exactly the message I was wanting to deliver. After all, it's Easter - a time when you ordinarily share a message of triumph and hope to people in light of the resurrected Jesus. No, instead, the Lord gave me a message that didn't exactly shout "good vibes." The message I shared was a no-holds-barred, pull-out-all-the-stops, "If you don't know Jesus, you're going to hell" message.
Really? Really, Lord? You really want me to share this message on Easter?
I submitted, and there it was. God did His thing in spite of me and now there are more names in the Book of Life. God really does know what He's doing!
The Lord spoke to me yesterday in a reassuring voice, "If you're not preaching to save souls or transform lives, why are you preaching?" It was a gentle reminder that God not only understands my struggles as a pastor, but He has sent me to do His will, not mine. I'm not in this for me. It's all about Jesus and bringing people to Him!
So, our Easter service was our best so far. Our attendance was just a few shy of 100 people - a record for us. Our offering was at record-level with a significant portion going towards expenses for two young men who are local missionaries from our Church family. We had 10 people make decisions for the Lord, and we are set up to baptize about a dozen people on April 18.
To some, this may seem like a drop in the bucket. To City on a Hill Church, this is who we are and this is where we're going. We will continue to be bold in following Christ at all costs in order for His Kingdom to be built in Culpeper one person at a time, one soul at a time.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
That's What He Said
One truth I know about the Bible is that if Jesus said it, He meant it. In my study of the Bible, I always like to look for quotes from Jesus. During this Easter season, I'm currently studying everything Jesus is recorded saying after the resurrection.
The Gospels tell us one of the most common phrases Jesus said after His resurrection was, "Don't be afraid." John 20:19 also captures Jesus as saying, "Peace be with you."
Why do you suppose Jesus said these things to His disciples and followers?
Certainly, they would have been at least a little shocked seeing him alive after the brutal crucifixion and burial in the tomb. Jesus would have expected them to be a little taken back. I think it's more than that though.
Fear and lack of peace are perhaps the two greatest enemies in a believer's life.
Fear to go where God is calling you to go...
Unrest about what's going to happen tomorrow...
Fear that prevents you from letting go of control and giving your entire life to God...
As followers of Christ, we need not have fear or lack of peace in our lives. God is the source of courage and boldness that we need to wake up every morning knowing that He is in control and we have eternal life with Him no matter what happens. God is also the source of our peace - a peace that goes beyond human understanding. We don't need our lives to be calm and without problems to have peace. The peace that God offers us isn't the removal of those problems, but peace in the midst of those problems.
If Jesus says we don't need to be afraid and that peace is being offered to us from the living God, then I believe it and I'll take it!
The Gospels tell us one of the most common phrases Jesus said after His resurrection was, "Don't be afraid." John 20:19 also captures Jesus as saying, "Peace be with you."
Why do you suppose Jesus said these things to His disciples and followers?
Certainly, they would have been at least a little shocked seeing him alive after the brutal crucifixion and burial in the tomb. Jesus would have expected them to be a little taken back. I think it's more than that though.
Fear and lack of peace are perhaps the two greatest enemies in a believer's life.
Fear to go where God is calling you to go...
Unrest about what's going to happen tomorrow...
Fear that prevents you from letting go of control and giving your entire life to God...
As followers of Christ, we need not have fear or lack of peace in our lives. God is the source of courage and boldness that we need to wake up every morning knowing that He is in control and we have eternal life with Him no matter what happens. God is also the source of our peace - a peace that goes beyond human understanding. We don't need our lives to be calm and without problems to have peace. The peace that God offers us isn't the removal of those problems, but peace in the midst of those problems.
If Jesus says we don't need to be afraid and that peace is being offered to us from the living God, then I believe it and I'll take it!
Monday, March 29, 2010
Favor
Not too long ago, I suggested to our staff/leaders that we begin to pray specifically for favor from God. Of course, I don't mean to infer that we weren't praying for God's blessings at City on a Hill Church. We were! But my suggestion was specific - that we begin to pray for favor.
I don't claim to fully understand the theological difference between blessings and favor or why it matters to God that these two things are different. I simply know that we've been experiencing blessings and favor in an abundance in the last several weeks. We've seen all kinds of things from increased giving to increased attendance to increased commitment to our Church.
We're not necessarily doing anything differently than we've ever done. This kind of favor can only be from the Lord God Almighty. I'm enjoying this so much!
I don't claim to fully understand the theological difference between blessings and favor or why it matters to God that these two things are different. I simply know that we've been experiencing blessings and favor in an abundance in the last several weeks. We've seen all kinds of things from increased giving to increased attendance to increased commitment to our Church.
We're not necessarily doing anything differently than we've ever done. This kind of favor can only be from the Lord God Almighty. I'm enjoying this so much!
Friday, March 26, 2010
Two Steps Forward
Wow! It's been an entire week since I blogged. Been a busy last few days...
I'm looking forward to seeing what God does over the next couple of weeks. This is a really big time of year for the Church. I believe the Lord has some big plans for City on a Hill Church. We have an opportunity to reach out to the neighborhood behind our church building tomorrow. We're going to extend some invitations packages that include some Easter candy and an invite with information about our free family portraits and egg hunt on Easter Sunday.
This morning, I received word that our Worship Pastor, Norm, came down with a nasty case of gall stones. He's going to be out of commission for a while. God, in His foreknowledge, already put into place a resolution for the absence of one of our leaders. He's burdened the heart of Winston, one of our young people, who has the gifting to lead us in musical worship this weekend. Man, I'm excited to be a part of that! One thing I've learned is that when God is in the midst of a situation like this, it usually means His power is going to be demonstrated in an amazing way. It's like we take one step back and then two steps forward.
I can't wait!
I'm looking forward to seeing what God does over the next couple of weeks. This is a really big time of year for the Church. I believe the Lord has some big plans for City on a Hill Church. We have an opportunity to reach out to the neighborhood behind our church building tomorrow. We're going to extend some invitations packages that include some Easter candy and an invite with information about our free family portraits and egg hunt on Easter Sunday.
This morning, I received word that our Worship Pastor, Norm, came down with a nasty case of gall stones. He's going to be out of commission for a while. God, in His foreknowledge, already put into place a resolution for the absence of one of our leaders. He's burdened the heart of Winston, one of our young people, who has the gifting to lead us in musical worship this weekend. Man, I'm excited to be a part of that! One thing I've learned is that when God is in the midst of a situation like this, it usually means His power is going to be demonstrated in an amazing way. It's like we take one step back and then two steps forward.
I can't wait!
Friday, March 19, 2010
Another Great Weekend Ahead
This is one of those weekends that I absolutely just live for!
Tomorrow, we're hosting a Love and Intimacy Conference for the community of Culpeper. Carrie and I are going to lead a discussion on what love and intimacy should look like in a marriage, highlighting what the Biblical model of love and intimacy is, the biggest differences in how men and women approach love and intimacy and how to reinforce love and intimacy within a marriage. I really can't wait to see how God uses this conference to bless marriages in our community.
On Sunday, we're dedicating Hannah and Noah, two children from different families. I love seeing families transformed by the power of God and the commitment being shown by parents to raise their children in a home dedicated to the Lord. We're going to have lots of extra people at our service who will be there to support these dedications. That means opportunities for the Gospel to be presented and the Holy Spirit to move!
Can't wait!
Tomorrow, we're hosting a Love and Intimacy Conference for the community of Culpeper. Carrie and I are going to lead a discussion on what love and intimacy should look like in a marriage, highlighting what the Biblical model of love and intimacy is, the biggest differences in how men and women approach love and intimacy and how to reinforce love and intimacy within a marriage. I really can't wait to see how God uses this conference to bless marriages in our community.
On Sunday, we're dedicating Hannah and Noah, two children from different families. I love seeing families transformed by the power of God and the commitment being shown by parents to raise their children in a home dedicated to the Lord. We're going to have lots of extra people at our service who will be there to support these dedications. That means opportunities for the Gospel to be presented and the Holy Spirit to move!
Can't wait!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Stripped Down
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us."
Hebrews 12:1 NLT
We need to get stripped down. The verse above reminds us that sin can weigh us down and slow us down. It also reminds us that there are things besides sin that can weigh us down.
Our "To Do" list may be too long.
We may have over-committed ourselves.
Our calendar is full with too many meetings.
Our vision has become divided with all kinds of peripheral events and chores.
Busyness is an enemy of our lives that often goes overlooked. Even if it isn't overlooked, it may not be getting the attention it deserves. It's not such a bad idea to periodically re-assess how our days are being spent.
This is such an important element when it comes to ministry. At City on a Hill Church, the ministries we offer are not programs. They are steps. In other words, they have a very specific purpose to get us from where we are to where we want to be. We don't offer ministries just to be able to say, "Yes, we have a _______ ministry." I would much rather refer someone to another church that offers that particular ministry instead of distracting ourselves with a ministry that God isn't calling us just for sake of having another ministry.
Strip it down. Keep it streamlined. Keep it as simple as possible. We can get a lot more accomplished this way and feel better doing it!
Hebrews 12:1 NLT
We need to get stripped down. The verse above reminds us that sin can weigh us down and slow us down. It also reminds us that there are things besides sin that can weigh us down.
Our "To Do" list may be too long.
We may have over-committed ourselves.
Our calendar is full with too many meetings.
Our vision has become divided with all kinds of peripheral events and chores.
Busyness is an enemy of our lives that often goes overlooked. Even if it isn't overlooked, it may not be getting the attention it deserves. It's not such a bad idea to periodically re-assess how our days are being spent.
This is such an important element when it comes to ministry. At City on a Hill Church, the ministries we offer are not programs. They are steps. In other words, they have a very specific purpose to get us from where we are to where we want to be. We don't offer ministries just to be able to say, "Yes, we have a _______ ministry." I would much rather refer someone to another church that offers that particular ministry instead of distracting ourselves with a ministry that God isn't calling us just for sake of having another ministry.
Strip it down. Keep it streamlined. Keep it as simple as possible. We can get a lot more accomplished this way and feel better doing it!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Despondency vs. Depression
Depression vs. Despondency. Those of us in ministry need to have a keen eye to discern between the two.
Jonah pleaded for God to take his life. Elijah did the same thing. What's the common thread? Both were in the midst of disobedience. Jonah was angry with God for His compassion on the people of Nineveh. Elijah had run in fear and was hiding in his misery.
Both were despondent, but not depressed. Depression is a medical condition that requires medical treatment. Despondency is a state of mind that almost always corresponds to some form of disobedience. Those of us in ministry, whether we like it or not, are spiritual healers to a degree. Thus, we need to do a better job of diagnosing and prescribing treatment in these cases.
What do you do for cases of depression? Easy - pray and recommend a good medical doctor or counselor. I think Pastors try and play roles that they aren't equipped for too many times. We're Pastors, not licensed counselors.
What do we do when we see despondency, though? That's just as easy really. We pray and encourage the person to begin walking in obedience to what God is calling them to do. In other words, stop throwing a pity party like Jonah and Elijah, get out there and do what you're supposed to be doing. Action is the best treatment for despondency.
Jonah pleaded for God to take his life. Elijah did the same thing. What's the common thread? Both were in the midst of disobedience. Jonah was angry with God for His compassion on the people of Nineveh. Elijah had run in fear and was hiding in his misery.
Both were despondent, but not depressed. Depression is a medical condition that requires medical treatment. Despondency is a state of mind that almost always corresponds to some form of disobedience. Those of us in ministry, whether we like it or not, are spiritual healers to a degree. Thus, we need to do a better job of diagnosing and prescribing treatment in these cases.
What do you do for cases of depression? Easy - pray and recommend a good medical doctor or counselor. I think Pastors try and play roles that they aren't equipped for too many times. We're Pastors, not licensed counselors.
What do we do when we see despondency, though? That's just as easy really. We pray and encourage the person to begin walking in obedience to what God is calling them to do. In other words, stop throwing a pity party like Jonah and Elijah, get out there and do what you're supposed to be doing. Action is the best treatment for despondency.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Weekend Reflections
It was like the perfect storm. Over the last couple of months, several events were added to my calendar forming a whirlwind week. Every day I opened my Outlook calendar, this week loomed over me with dark shadows of what looked like the perfect storm brewing.
Out of town all day Thursday...
Celebrating Carrie's and my anniversary all day Saturday...
COAHC Sunday service in the morning...
COAHC TriBE Membership Class on Sunday afternoon...
Preaching at the Culpeper Lenten Service on Sunday evening...
Leading up to this weekend, I covered the weekend in prayer. I really focus on the importance of doing what I do with excellence. I simply don't like missing an opportunity to glorify God by giving less than 100%. And, man, did God show up in a big way!
It was a long time since Carrie and I had an opportunity to spend an entire day together uninterrupted by kids or ministry. From 9 am to 9 pm, we spent twelve hours in married bliss. It was so wonderful re-engaging one another in conversation beyond the quick "How was your day? How can I pray for you?" that normally takes place. God has blessed me with such an incredible wife who is everything and more than I could ever ask for.
My sermon was completely finished as of Friday night, so I didn't need to spend anytime on Saturday tweaking or revising as I normally do. Instead, God took me in a different direction for Lenten service sermon. It only took me a few hours Saturday night and early Sunday morning to get down on paper, so I still got five hours of sleep.
Sunday was amazing! God moved powerfully in our COAHC service. The message was difficult to preach, but the Holy Spirit used it to bring people into a new relationship with Him. That never gets old for me.
We had our first membership class and our Charter members on the books. We call it TriBE Membership. We're a Church family with characteristics of a tribe, and we focus on BElieving, BElonging and BEcoming. It's so great to have this aspect of our Church finally get underway.
Sunday evening was the climax to an inspiring day. Preaching at a community service with several other area Church leaders (ie, pastors and reverends) in attendance is always a daunting task. Preaching to folks who come from such diverse Church backgrounds is even more daunting. My preaching style doesn't exactly smack of tradition. Yet, the Lord moved powerfully in His Word and struck at the hearts of several who responded with a commitment to God at the end.
Praise be to God for a busy week... an inspiring week... a week when He took over, gave me the strength and energy to accomplish His work for His glory.
Out of town all day Thursday...
Celebrating Carrie's and my anniversary all day Saturday...
COAHC Sunday service in the morning...
COAHC TriBE Membership Class on Sunday afternoon...
Preaching at the Culpeper Lenten Service on Sunday evening...
Leading up to this weekend, I covered the weekend in prayer. I really focus on the importance of doing what I do with excellence. I simply don't like missing an opportunity to glorify God by giving less than 100%. And, man, did God show up in a big way!
It was a long time since Carrie and I had an opportunity to spend an entire day together uninterrupted by kids or ministry. From 9 am to 9 pm, we spent twelve hours in married bliss. It was so wonderful re-engaging one another in conversation beyond the quick "How was your day? How can I pray for you?" that normally takes place. God has blessed me with such an incredible wife who is everything and more than I could ever ask for.
My sermon was completely finished as of Friday night, so I didn't need to spend anytime on Saturday tweaking or revising as I normally do. Instead, God took me in a different direction for Lenten service sermon. It only took me a few hours Saturday night and early Sunday morning to get down on paper, so I still got five hours of sleep.
Sunday was amazing! God moved powerfully in our COAHC service. The message was difficult to preach, but the Holy Spirit used it to bring people into a new relationship with Him. That never gets old for me.
We had our first membership class and our Charter members on the books. We call it TriBE Membership. We're a Church family with characteristics of a tribe, and we focus on BElieving, BElonging and BEcoming. It's so great to have this aspect of our Church finally get underway.
Sunday evening was the climax to an inspiring day. Preaching at a community service with several other area Church leaders (ie, pastors and reverends) in attendance is always a daunting task. Preaching to folks who come from such diverse Church backgrounds is even more daunting. My preaching style doesn't exactly smack of tradition. Yet, the Lord moved powerfully in His Word and struck at the hearts of several who responded with a commitment to God at the end.
Praise be to God for a busy week... an inspiring week... a week when He took over, gave me the strength and energy to accomplish His work for His glory.
Friday, March 12, 2010
The Train Wreck of Sin
On September 18, 2008, a Southern California Metrolink commuter train collided head-on with a freight train killing 25 people and injuring 135 others. Why? Because the engineer who was responsible for hitting the switch to change tracks for one of the trains was sending a text message instead of doing what he was supposed to be doing.
You don't think your sin effects other people? Really? Besides the modern-day story above, take a look at Joshua chapter 7. That should get your attention.
This weekend at City on a Hill Church, we're going to continue our series entitled "A Closer Look at Sin." We're going to look at how our sin effects not only us, but more importantly, how it effects others.
Please join us @ 11am at City on a Hill Church.
You don't think your sin effects other people? Really? Besides the modern-day story above, take a look at Joshua chapter 7. That should get your attention.
This weekend at City on a Hill Church, we're going to continue our series entitled "A Closer Look at Sin." We're going to look at how our sin effects not only us, but more importantly, how it effects others.
Please join us @ 11am at City on a Hill Church.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Great Weekend Lined Up
We have a great weekend lined up for City on a Hill Church. On Sunday, we'll continue our series entitled "A Closer Look at Sin." We're going to look at the effects of sin in our lives. You may be surprised at the level of infection sin can cause.
On Sunday @ 3pm, we'll host our first TriBE Membership Class, where we focus on helping people transition from BElievers to BElongers to BEcomers.
On Sunday evening @ 6pm, I'll share a message at the Culpeper Community Lenten Service. The service is being hosted at Church on the Rise on Sperryville Pike. The message will focus on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:19-34).
My most favorite part of the weekend will be Saturday. On Saturday, my beloved wife and I will celebrate our 11th anniversary together with an entire day of uninterrupted indulgence of our love for one another. I can't wait!
On Sunday @ 3pm, we'll host our first TriBE Membership Class, where we focus on helping people transition from BElievers to BElongers to BEcomers.
On Sunday evening @ 6pm, I'll share a message at the Culpeper Community Lenten Service. The service is being hosted at Church on the Rise on Sperryville Pike. The message will focus on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:19-34).
My most favorite part of the weekend will be Saturday. On Saturday, my beloved wife and I will celebrate our 11th anniversary together with an entire day of uninterrupted indulgence of our love for one another. I can't wait!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Weekend Reflections
In spite of the nice weather outside, we had one of our biggest weekends ever at COAHC. Besides our Grand Opening, we had more in attendance than ever before. God's Spirit soared through lives as we took a closer look at sin, its source, its power in our lives and its effects. Over the next few weeks, we'll continue to tackle this topic with messages on the effects of sin on communities and we'll even take a look at some specific sins and how to overcome them in our lives.
Our ministry leaders are doing such a fantastic job at overseeing their specific ministries. I love being able to sit back and watch God move through them in powerful ways.
I'm watching our Church grow - not just in number, but, more importantly, in our spiritual maturity. Just as plants and humans grow in spurts, our Church is a living, organic Body that grows the same way. I can say with confidence, we're in a growth spurt. We'll probably go through a little discomfort, but it's all worth it in the end to become who He wants us to!
Our ministry leaders are doing such a fantastic job at overseeing their specific ministries. I love being able to sit back and watch God move through them in powerful ways.
I'm watching our Church grow - not just in number, but, more importantly, in our spiritual maturity. Just as plants and humans grow in spurts, our Church is a living, organic Body that grows the same way. I can say with confidence, we're in a growth spurt. We'll probably go through a little discomfort, but it's all worth it in the end to become who He wants us to!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Leaders
When it comes to leadership, I'd much rather have someone who is under-qualified on paper but who has passion for knowing Christ, who is hungry to serve and grow and who is open to be molded by God's hands. The alternative tends to be someone who has a killer resume yet more focused on their experience and expertise than willing to simply follow God when it means getting uncomfortable.
Since I've been in a position to offer opportunities of leadership to others in ministry, I've often heard God whisper, "His qualifications aren't as important as his heart. Believe in him because I do." I've witnessed God use hands-on leadership experience to facilitate maturity and wisdom more effectively than any formal training or education.
Don't get me wrong. I definitely believe in formal training and education. It's an important part of the equation. But it's not the only thing, and it shouldn't necessarily be the most important thing.
In one of my former ministry opportunities, I served as a Youth Pastor. Immediately, God began bringing in college-aged young adults who could offer their time to be involved as leaders. Most, if not all of them, had rough edges. They weren't prepared to lead middle school or high school kids, but they were hungry to grow and willing to simply allow God to speak through them. I'm happy to say that they are still serving the same ministry years later and investing themselves into the lives of others potential leaders who could so easily be shoved aside.
No doubt, this is a difficult way to go. It requires time and investment in that person's life. And the fact of the matter is, it doesn't always work out. I've had my share of those stories. The reality is though, I've had many more success stories than failures. The transformation that happens before your very eyes and the blessings that come out of it far outweigh the risk and disappointment when things don't come to fruition.
When looking for someone to fill those staff positions, start by looking around you. Chances are there are some people nearby who God is ready to do some amazing things in and through if given an opportunity.
Since I've been in a position to offer opportunities of leadership to others in ministry, I've often heard God whisper, "His qualifications aren't as important as his heart. Believe in him because I do." I've witnessed God use hands-on leadership experience to facilitate maturity and wisdom more effectively than any formal training or education.
Don't get me wrong. I definitely believe in formal training and education. It's an important part of the equation. But it's not the only thing, and it shouldn't necessarily be the most important thing.
In one of my former ministry opportunities, I served as a Youth Pastor. Immediately, God began bringing in college-aged young adults who could offer their time to be involved as leaders. Most, if not all of them, had rough edges. They weren't prepared to lead middle school or high school kids, but they were hungry to grow and willing to simply allow God to speak through them. I'm happy to say that they are still serving the same ministry years later and investing themselves into the lives of others potential leaders who could so easily be shoved aside.
No doubt, this is a difficult way to go. It requires time and investment in that person's life. And the fact of the matter is, it doesn't always work out. I've had my share of those stories. The reality is though, I've had many more success stories than failures. The transformation that happens before your very eyes and the blessings that come out of it far outweigh the risk and disappointment when things don't come to fruition.
When looking for someone to fill those staff positions, start by looking around you. Chances are there are some people nearby who God is ready to do some amazing things in and through if given an opportunity.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Manna From Heaven
Imagine yourself as one of the Jews who has left Egypt for the promised land. Now imagine being told that you were going to wander in the desert for the next forty years? One of the biggest concerns I would have is, "What am I going to eat? How am I going to survive?"
God provided.
Then Yahweh said to Moses, "I will rain down bread from heaven for you." Exodus 16:4
Who provided? God did! The One whose name is "I am" provided for the Jews back then, and He provides for you and me today as well.
Imagine if the Jews had to find food for themselves during those forty years. What would have happened if they relied on themselves instead of God's providence? God provides in ways that are not only meant to be miraculous, but also meant to teach us important lessons about who God is and our relationship with Him.
He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on brad alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. Deuteronomy 8:3 NIV
This was also Jesus' response during His battle in the wilderness with Satan for forty days. God's point to the Jews as they left Egypt, to Satan as Jesus prepared for His earthly ministry and to you and me as we go through this thing called life is that we must have complete dependence on God.
What are you depending on for your daily bread? Are you relying on material wealth? a particular relationship? or perhaps just yourself because, after all, you're all you need, right?
Don't starve yourself today. God is Who you need at this very moment.
God provided.
Then Yahweh said to Moses, "I will rain down bread from heaven for you." Exodus 16:4
Who provided? God did! The One whose name is "I am" provided for the Jews back then, and He provides for you and me today as well.
Imagine if the Jews had to find food for themselves during those forty years. What would have happened if they relied on themselves instead of God's providence? God provides in ways that are not only meant to be miraculous, but also meant to teach us important lessons about who God is and our relationship with Him.
He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on brad alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. Deuteronomy 8:3 NIV
This was also Jesus' response during His battle in the wilderness with Satan for forty days. God's point to the Jews as they left Egypt, to Satan as Jesus prepared for His earthly ministry and to you and me as we go through this thing called life is that we must have complete dependence on God.
What are you depending on for your daily bread? Are you relying on material wealth? a particular relationship? or perhaps just yourself because, after all, you're all you need, right?
Don't starve yourself today. God is Who you need at this very moment.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Forgiveness
A lot of Christians respond to forgiveness along these lines...
"Jesus died on the cross and rose again on the third day. My sins are forgiven. I got it! Can we move on?"
My response to that usually is, "Really? Do you really get it?"
I mean if we really got it, then why are so many of us broken by bitterness and anger? Why do we struggle with letting go? Why do those sickening emotions well up inside of us each and every time we hear that person's name or see them at those annual holiday gatherings?
This weekend at City on a Hill Church, we'll be talking about forgiveness. Forgiveness is too great an issue for us to stop talking about it. There's too much that God wants to say to us about it. Trust me. You haven't heard it all.
Please join us on Sunday @ 11am.
"Jesus died on the cross and rose again on the third day. My sins are forgiven. I got it! Can we move on?"
My response to that usually is, "Really? Do you really get it?"
I mean if we really got it, then why are so many of us broken by bitterness and anger? Why do we struggle with letting go? Why do those sickening emotions well up inside of us each and every time we hear that person's name or see them at those annual holiday gatherings?
This weekend at City on a Hill Church, we'll be talking about forgiveness. Forgiveness is too great an issue for us to stop talking about it. There's too much that God wants to say to us about it. Trust me. You haven't heard it all.
Please join us on Sunday @ 11am.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Love & Intimacy
The Love & Intimacy Conference on Saturday, March 20 is the answer to a lot of prayers. Since we launched City on a Hill Church, we've been faced with all kinds of questions and issues within marriage. We've watched marriages struggle as the husband and wife don't know how to effectively communicate about some of the more important but embarrassing issues of intimacy. Everyone knows that money is the biggest reason for marriage problems and the #1 cause of divorce in America. There are some great programs already in place in Culpeper to assist those folks. We're going to tackle some of the issues that are not talked about as much in public, but are just as important.
Put it on your calendar folks. It's Saturday, March 20 from 2pm to 4pm. Registration is only $5/person or $10/couple. It's an investment you won't regret!
Put it on your calendar folks. It's Saturday, March 20 from 2pm to 4pm. Registration is only $5/person or $10/couple. It's an investment you won't regret!
Monday, February 22, 2010
Weekend Reflections
Lots of people missed the Sunday service at City on a Hill Church because they were sick. We'll have the sermon up on the website by midday Tuesday. We had some technical difficulties with the previous few weeks, so the end of the Chase the Goose series and Tim's message from last weekend won't get posted.
We had a slew of first-time visitors with us on Sunday. What a great feeling that always gives me. God prompts those He knows needs to encounter Him each week. That's always something we pray about before each and every service. The message wasn't one of our ordinary messages, but it was great to remind everyone who we are, where we're going and how we're going to get there. We've entered a new season at COAHC, and we all need to be ready for it with firm commitment.
Best of all, several people responded to give their lives to Christ!
Carrie and I like to spend time together each week watching American Idol (real spiritual stuff there!). Last week, they selected their final 24 out of hundreds of thousands who auditioned. Watching the reactions of those who made the final cut as they walk through the door is always inspiring. Honestly, that's how I feel every time I walk through the doors into our church building. I mean, really. I get to do this? I get to pastor this Church? Are you kidding me? What a great life God has blessed me with!!
We had a slew of first-time visitors with us on Sunday. What a great feeling that always gives me. God prompts those He knows needs to encounter Him each week. That's always something we pray about before each and every service. The message wasn't one of our ordinary messages, but it was great to remind everyone who we are, where we're going and how we're going to get there. We've entered a new season at COAHC, and we all need to be ready for it with firm commitment.
Best of all, several people responded to give their lives to Christ!
Carrie and I like to spend time together each week watching American Idol (real spiritual stuff there!). Last week, they selected their final 24 out of hundreds of thousands who auditioned. Watching the reactions of those who made the final cut as they walk through the door is always inspiring. Honestly, that's how I feel every time I walk through the doors into our church building. I mean, really. I get to do this? I get to pastor this Church? Are you kidding me? What a great life God has blessed me with!!
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Saved AND Called
So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,
2 Timothy 1:8-9 NIV
As I was reading this passage this morning, the Lord reminded me that each and every one of us is not only saved, but also called. Too many Christians live their lives under the umbrella of the former and forget about the latter.
If you've been in Christian circles for anytime at all, you've probably heard the following at least half a dozen times:
"God has a special plan for your life."
It's said so much, it's almost become cliche in Christianese. However, no matter how redundant it becomes in your life, it's still true. Perhaps the reason why we hear it so much is because it's not yet been lived out in our lives.
"... called us to a holy life..."
The word holy (hagios in the Greek) means "set apart for a purpose." In other words, Paul is telling us that God has called us to a life that has been set apart for a specific purpose. For some, that means vocational ministry. For most, it simply means that God has designed you uniquely with specific gifts and talents to serve the Body of Christ and glorify Him. Whether serving in ministry vocationally or not, let it be a calling in your life. Let it be taken seriously enough that you invest yourself in it. Grow in it. Learn from it. Let God shape you and transform you in it while blessing others through it.
2 Timothy 1:8-9 NIV
As I was reading this passage this morning, the Lord reminded me that each and every one of us is not only saved, but also called. Too many Christians live their lives under the umbrella of the former and forget about the latter.
If you've been in Christian circles for anytime at all, you've probably heard the following at least half a dozen times:
"God has a special plan for your life."
It's said so much, it's almost become cliche in Christianese. However, no matter how redundant it becomes in your life, it's still true. Perhaps the reason why we hear it so much is because it's not yet been lived out in our lives.
"... called us to a holy life..."
The word holy (hagios in the Greek) means "set apart for a purpose." In other words, Paul is telling us that God has called us to a life that has been set apart for a specific purpose. For some, that means vocational ministry. For most, it simply means that God has designed you uniquely with specific gifts and talents to serve the Body of Christ and glorify Him. Whether serving in ministry vocationally or not, let it be a calling in your life. Let it be taken seriously enough that you invest yourself in it. Grow in it. Learn from it. Let God shape you and transform you in it while blessing others through it.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Full Calendar
The website for City on a Hill Church was updated yesterday to include the full calendar for the next couple of months. As I was reviewing March, it really hit me.
Wow, we have a lot going on!
I'm truly glad that not only are we doing a lot for our COAHC family, we're also not forgetting about reaching our community as well. In busy times, it's so important that we remain deliberate and intentional about fulfilling our vision and be who God has called us to be. It's too easy to get distracted by a lot of fun or new events or programs.
Just a few highlights...
-New Life Groups launching
-Community Love & Intimacy Conference
-Overseeing the Culpeper Warming Shelter
-TriBE Membership Class
-Quarterly Ministry Leaders' Meeting
-Community Lenten Service
-Monthly Prayer Service
Wow, we have a lot going on!
I'm truly glad that not only are we doing a lot for our COAHC family, we're also not forgetting about reaching our community as well. In busy times, it's so important that we remain deliberate and intentional about fulfilling our vision and be who God has called us to be. It's too easy to get distracted by a lot of fun or new events or programs.
Just a few highlights...
-New Life Groups launching
-Community Love & Intimacy Conference
-Overseeing the Culpeper Warming Shelter
-TriBE Membership Class
-Quarterly Ministry Leaders' Meeting
-Community Lenten Service
-Monthly Prayer Service
Sunday, February 14, 2010
The UnChurched Talking About Church
Take a few minutes and watch (but listen more carefully) to this video. It's an interesting take on the contemporary evangelical Church from an unChurched opinion.
I think I'll start calling our Worship Team our "Hallelujah Band."
I think I'll start calling our Worship Team our "Hallelujah Band."
Friday, February 12, 2010
Love & Intimacy Conference
Mark your calendars now!
Saturday, March 20 @ City on a Hill Church
We're going to be hosting our first Love & Intimacy Conference. Over the last several weeks, I can't tell you how many times the issue of love and intimacy has come up in conversation. So many questions... So much confusion...
If your marriage is lacking the spark it needs...
If you need some help understanding your spouse...
If you're confused about what's appropriate in the bedroom...
If you're not even married, but want to proactively prepare for marriage...
Then this conference is for you.
More details to come soon...
Saturday, March 20 @ City on a Hill Church
We're going to be hosting our first Love & Intimacy Conference. Over the last several weeks, I can't tell you how many times the issue of love and intimacy has come up in conversation. So many questions... So much confusion...
If your marriage is lacking the spark it needs...
If you need some help understanding your spouse...
If you're confused about what's appropriate in the bedroom...
If you're not even married, but want to proactively prepare for marriage...
Then this conference is for you.
More details to come soon...
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Name That Tune
He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear
and put their trust in the Lord.
Psalm 40:3 NIV
If you're as old as I am, you may remember a game show that used to be on television called "Name That Tune." Contestants would try and guess the title of a song by hearing as few notes as possible. Reading Psalm 40 this morning reminded me of that game show.
I wonder what song you're singing this morning? Many of us in the Mid-Atlantic are probably singing a song requesting some Spring-like weather. David was going through his own problems when he wrote this psalm. Instead of dwelling on the problems at hand, David suggests that the Lord has encouraged him to sing a song of praise.
The song of praise in spite of our circumstances isn't just for our own benefit (even though it definitely helps get us out of a funk). It's for the benefit of those hearing it. David tells us that many will put their trust in the Lord as a result of hearing our song of praise while knowing our circumstances.
We read the New Testament account of putting this into practice in Acts 16. The Apostle Paul and Silas are singing praise songs to God immediately after having been beaten and imprisoned. The other prisoners were listening to them. I can only imagine what was going through their minds!
You and I need to sing a song of praise each and every day regardless of our circumstances. Our song is seen not only in our words, but also in our attitude, behavior and body language. When we can praise God in all these things in spite of our circumstances, many will thirst after what you have and create opportunities for sharing the Good News that trumps any bad news. No one will have to guess the song you're singing. It will be easy to name that tune!
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear
and put their trust in the Lord.
Psalm 40:3 NIV
If you're as old as I am, you may remember a game show that used to be on television called "Name That Tune." Contestants would try and guess the title of a song by hearing as few notes as possible. Reading Psalm 40 this morning reminded me of that game show.
I wonder what song you're singing this morning? Many of us in the Mid-Atlantic are probably singing a song requesting some Spring-like weather. David was going through his own problems when he wrote this psalm. Instead of dwelling on the problems at hand, David suggests that the Lord has encouraged him to sing a song of praise.
The song of praise in spite of our circumstances isn't just for our own benefit (even though it definitely helps get us out of a funk). It's for the benefit of those hearing it. David tells us that many will put their trust in the Lord as a result of hearing our song of praise while knowing our circumstances.
We read the New Testament account of putting this into practice in Acts 16. The Apostle Paul and Silas are singing praise songs to God immediately after having been beaten and imprisoned. The other prisoners were listening to them. I can only imagine what was going through their minds!
You and I need to sing a song of praise each and every day regardless of our circumstances. Our song is seen not only in our words, but also in our attitude, behavior and body language. When we can praise God in all these things in spite of our circumstances, many will thirst after what you have and create opportunities for sharing the Good News that trumps any bad news. No one will have to guess the song you're singing. It will be easy to name that tune!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Radicalis
Saddleback Church (Rick Warren) is hosting Radicalis for pastors/leaders. Today and Friday (Wed and Thur maybe too) are being webcast for free. I listened to Rick Warren, Perry Noble and Andy Stanley for several hours today - sometimes uninterrupted listening and sometimes just in the background. I have to confess that I haven't been fed like that in a long time.
Rick Warren opened up by explaining his philosophy on how we, as Christians, need to be more rooted. Radicalis is the word that means "root." In other words, we've got to be rooted in the Lord. This hit home so hard for me as I believe we need to be more rooted in the Lord via more connected to the Body of Christ. Too many of us think we can be rooted in Christ without being connected and committed to the Church. Sorry, it doesn't work!
Perry Noble continued by talking about being more rooted in our devotion to the Lord. Andy Stanley wrapped up the day by teaching how to preach in a more rooted way.
I have so many ideas for future sermons right now, it isn't even funny!
Rick Warren opened up by explaining his philosophy on how we, as Christians, need to be more rooted. Radicalis is the word that means "root." In other words, we've got to be rooted in the Lord. This hit home so hard for me as I believe we need to be more rooted in the Lord via more connected to the Body of Christ. Too many of us think we can be rooted in Christ without being connected and committed to the Church. Sorry, it doesn't work!
Perry Noble continued by talking about being more rooted in our devotion to the Lord. Andy Stanley wrapped up the day by teaching how to preach in a more rooted way.
I have so many ideas for future sermons right now, it isn't even funny!
Mockers Schmockers
“Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult;
whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse.
Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you;
rebuke a wise man and he will love you.
Proverbs 9:7-8 NIV
I can remember a time in my life when I was looking for opportunities to correct people - especially those who mocked the Lord. Regardless of the situation, it always ended the same way: the person would laugh at me, ridicule me and mock the Lord and me even more still.
Reading this passage this morning, I was reminded how God warns us about trying to correct someone who isn't interested in being corrected. It ends badly. It ends with frustration and hurt. Nothing good comes from it. And yet, many of us still think to ourselves, "Well, I can set that person straight. What I have to say will make a difference to them."
Yea, right.
Why do we want so badly to waste our time with people who aren't interested in growing and learning from God while we neglect those who desire to grow and learn? As the Church, we need to do a much better job at discerning between those who need the Lord and those who want the Lord. All of us need the Lord, but far fewer really want Him.
"So we should ignore those in the world who don't know Christ and just focus on those inside the Church?"
Absolutely, unequivocally "NO!"
That flies in the face of our vision at City on a Hill Church and what I believe God has commanded the Church. What I am saying is that we need to not waste so much of our time on people who will suck the very life out of us without ever growing an inch in their relationship with Jesus. Too many are standing by asking for our attention and wanting our attention - those who will grow by leaps and bounds if we simply invest in them.
Lord, may we have the discernment to recognize those who desire to be more like You. May we invest ourselves in them. May we not waste our time trying to correct those who mock you in word and in deed. Amen!
whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse.
Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you;
rebuke a wise man and he will love you.
Proverbs 9:7-8 NIV
I can remember a time in my life when I was looking for opportunities to correct people - especially those who mocked the Lord. Regardless of the situation, it always ended the same way: the person would laugh at me, ridicule me and mock the Lord and me even more still.
Reading this passage this morning, I was reminded how God warns us about trying to correct someone who isn't interested in being corrected. It ends badly. It ends with frustration and hurt. Nothing good comes from it. And yet, many of us still think to ourselves, "Well, I can set that person straight. What I have to say will make a difference to them."
Yea, right.
Why do we want so badly to waste our time with people who aren't interested in growing and learning from God while we neglect those who desire to grow and learn? As the Church, we need to do a much better job at discerning between those who need the Lord and those who want the Lord. All of us need the Lord, but far fewer really want Him.
"So we should ignore those in the world who don't know Christ and just focus on those inside the Church?"
Absolutely, unequivocally "NO!"
That flies in the face of our vision at City on a Hill Church and what I believe God has commanded the Church. What I am saying is that we need to not waste so much of our time on people who will suck the very life out of us without ever growing an inch in their relationship with Jesus. Too many are standing by asking for our attention and wanting our attention - those who will grow by leaps and bounds if we simply invest in them.
Lord, may we have the discernment to recognize those who desire to be more like You. May we invest ourselves in them. May we not waste our time trying to correct those who mock you in word and in deed. Amen!
Monday, February 8, 2010
Living Dangerously
This weekend was great. City on a Hill Church hosted its first service via teleconference and web conference. It wasn't exactly what we had planned or ever wanted to do; but out of necessity due to the weather, we gave our community an option to worship God and study God's Word via technology when most every church service was canceled in our region.
We wrapped up our Chase the Goose series with a sermon on breaking out of the cage of fear. The consistent theme over this six-week series has been living dangerously for God. As I watched the Superbowl last night, I could not help but see some parallels in the Saints' playcalling to what we've been talking about in our series.
The New Orleans Saints took risks and lived dangerously in the game last night. From going for it on fourth and goal to the onside kick, Sean Peyton led that team with a dangerous attitude that seemed to say, "Nothing's going to stop us!"
Some of the risks didn't always pan out the way the coach wanted. That's just like living dangerously for God. There are instances when our plans aren't fulfilled in that instance. But we don't give up. We don't get conservative. We don't play it safe. We keep on living dangerously and allowing God to work in and through us in miraculous ways.
I, for one, am happy to see the Saints win their first Superbowl. I'm even happier to see them win in the fashion they did. May we all live dangerously for God!
We wrapped up our Chase the Goose series with a sermon on breaking out of the cage of fear. The consistent theme over this six-week series has been living dangerously for God. As I watched the Superbowl last night, I could not help but see some parallels in the Saints' playcalling to what we've been talking about in our series.
The New Orleans Saints took risks and lived dangerously in the game last night. From going for it on fourth and goal to the onside kick, Sean Peyton led that team with a dangerous attitude that seemed to say, "Nothing's going to stop us!"
Some of the risks didn't always pan out the way the coach wanted. That's just like living dangerously for God. There are instances when our plans aren't fulfilled in that instance. But we don't give up. We don't get conservative. We don't play it safe. We keep on living dangerously and allowing God to work in and through us in miraculous ways.
I, for one, am happy to see the Saints win their first Superbowl. I'm even happier to see them win in the fashion they did. May we all live dangerously for God!
Sunday, February 7, 2010
A Different Kind of Sunday Service
Due to weather, our service this morning is being hosted via free web conference and free audio conference @ 11am.
Click here to register in advance for the web conference.
To dial into the audio portion, please call toll free 1-888-350-0075 and enter conference room # 4974494.
Click here to register in advance for the web conference.
To dial into the audio portion, please call toll free 1-888-350-0075 and enter conference room # 4974494.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Sunday Service vs. Snow
This weekend, the two toughest teams in the NFL face off head-to-head for the Superbowl. In a similar battle for the ages, the wintry weather is squaring off against our local church services. Unfortunately, this is pretty much a one-sided battle. The snow's going to cancel most, if not all, services in the Culpeper area on Sunday morning for the third time this winter season.
City on a Hill Church is doing what it can to keep our local body connected with one another. When the normal routine doesn't work, think outside the box! We're considering the possibility of hosting church service over a web/telephone conference.
As a consultant in the pharmaceutical research industry, I utilize these meetings all the time for my job - at least monthly. People can hear one another over the telephone and those with internet access can also see slides or even video. It doesn't matter where you are. If you have access to a telephone line and/or internet connection, then you have access!
When you can use technology to bridge the gaps of distance between people, it helps tremendously. So, why not use it for the Church? I'm definitely not suggesting we use this technology on a regular basis as a substitute for meeting together live and in person; but when we can't get together due to weather, let's get creative and stay connected!
If the weather prevents us from meeting this weekend, expect an alternative like this to be offered. Check our website for details as we get closer to Sunday.
City on a Hill Church is doing what it can to keep our local body connected with one another. When the normal routine doesn't work, think outside the box! We're considering the possibility of hosting church service over a web/telephone conference.
As a consultant in the pharmaceutical research industry, I utilize these meetings all the time for my job - at least monthly. People can hear one another over the telephone and those with internet access can also see slides or even video. It doesn't matter where you are. If you have access to a telephone line and/or internet connection, then you have access!
When you can use technology to bridge the gaps of distance between people, it helps tremendously. So, why not use it for the Church? I'm definitely not suggesting we use this technology on a regular basis as a substitute for meeting together live and in person; but when we can't get together due to weather, let's get creative and stay connected!
If the weather prevents us from meeting this weekend, expect an alternative like this to be offered. Check our website for details as we get closer to Sunday.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Staying Connected
With all this wintry weather that's beautiful to look at (but destructive to schedules, plans and driving), how in the world does a church family stay connected?
Our leadership team is brain storming and trying to come up with some creative ways to stay connected. With advanced technology, we can use video conferencing and the internet. The problem is that not everyone has web access. Another option would be teleconferencing.
How is your church body staying connected?
Our leadership team is brain storming and trying to come up with some creative ways to stay connected. With advanced technology, we can use video conferencing and the internet. The problem is that not everyone has web access. Another option would be teleconferencing.
How is your church body staying connected?
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Snow Days
Last weekend, we got hit with another snow storm. Most churches canceled services on Sunday. Fortunately, we were blessed with the flexibility to postpone our Sunday service a few hours, let the roads clear a bit and host our service in the afternoon. What a great service it was, too! We served a home-cooked meal afterward and had some great fellowship with our church family.
We're expecting more snow this week. I've heard that another major storm is supposed to hit us sometime this month. Who knows? God does!
Regardless, we'll do everything we can to open our doors and host service each and every weekend. We may have to be creative in our timing, but that's okay by me. Having said all of this, our church family's health and safety is of the utmost importance. We aren't going to endanger lives for the sake of having a service. Church isn't defined by our building and it isn't our Sunday service. Church is defined as you and me. Where 2 or more are gathered, there will He be in the midst. With today's technology, we can experience God's presence for a weekend over the internet or television. Of course, we can't forsake gathering together, but a weekend here and there isn't going to do damage to anyone's spiritual life.
Let's commit to continue praying for one another and look savor each and every opportunity to gather together in fellowship and worship of our Lord Jesus Christ!
We're expecting more snow this week. I've heard that another major storm is supposed to hit us sometime this month. Who knows? God does!
Regardless, we'll do everything we can to open our doors and host service each and every weekend. We may have to be creative in our timing, but that's okay by me. Having said all of this, our church family's health and safety is of the utmost importance. We aren't going to endanger lives for the sake of having a service. Church isn't defined by our building and it isn't our Sunday service. Church is defined as you and me. Where 2 or more are gathered, there will He be in the midst. With today's technology, we can experience God's presence for a weekend over the internet or television. Of course, we can't forsake gathering together, but a weekend here and there isn't going to do damage to anyone's spiritual life.
Let's commit to continue praying for one another and look savor each and every opportunity to gather together in fellowship and worship of our Lord Jesus Christ!
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