Twitter Updates

Had to remove the gadget that displays my Twitter updates. Apparently the gadget got hacked and was displaying someone else's updates that were a little on the vulgar side.

Will reinstall when the problem is fixed.

Family Ties

Yesterday, there was an article in the paper about a Culpeper family who recently competed in a tennis tournament together. The family has become well-known around our community as lovers of the game of tennis. When you see them in the grocery store or in the post office, it's natural to think of tennis.

Growing up, my family enjoyed something similar with the sport of long-distance running. Both my parents ran, my sister ran and I ran. During my Jr high, high school and college years, there were numerous newspaper articles that featured my family and the success we experienced in our sport. When you saw one of the Dameron's, it was natural for you to think of the sport of running.

In chapter 8 of the Gospel of John, Jesus has a conversation with the religious leaders about family ties. The Jews claimed their salvation based on their ancestry to Abraham. But Jesus took it a step further.

"Abraham is our father," they answered.
"If you were Abraham's children," said Jesus, "then you would do the things Abraham did. As it is, you are determined to kill me, a man who told you the truth that I heard from God. Abraham did not do such things. You are doing the things your own father does."
"We are not illegitimate children,
they protested. "The only Father we have is God himself."
John 8:39-41 NIV

Jesus emphasizes the connection between our ancestry and our behavior which reveals it. He's telling them that people should recognize them based on their actions and attitudes reflecting their parents' values. Jesus goes on to tell them that they are the children of the devil because they want to carry out their father's desire.

When we read this story, we need to consider whose children we are. We're not just children of our earthly parents, but we're also children of our Father in heaven.

Does my daily routine reflect my Father's transformational power?

Does my attitude reflect my Father's love and grace?

Do my behavior and words reflect my Father's righteousness and holiness?

We need to make sure that when people see us in the grocery store, the post office and everywhere we go, they know we're connected to God. May all the glory be to our eternal Father in heaven!

My Prayer

Lord, may I always pastor City on a Hill Church with a shepherd's heart. Please help me to understand the needs of my flock and care for them well. May I feed them with the spiritual nourishment they need each and every week. I pray that each person would be discipled well so that your plans and purposes come to fruition in our lives. Help me to comfort my flock, protect them and lead them to greener pasteurs.

Lord, may I always pastor City on a Hill Church with boldness. May I never rely on gimmicks, programs or anyone else to accomplish your will in the life of our Church. May your will be revealed to me and may I lead in accordance regardless of what I think may happen. Help me to never be afraid of man's reaction. I pray that every service, every ministry and every outreach to the community will stretch our Church Body and grow us to be not only followers of Christ, but also more like Christ.

Lord, may City on a Hill Church be all that you want us to be. May we be a light to our community. May we be an example of Your love to our community. Help us to be where we are needed most. Help us to reach those who need to know You. Equip us, Lord, with every gift that is needed to accomplish Your will. May You be glorified through each and every life that is a part of City on a Hill Church.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

Neighborhood Appreciation Celebration

Saturday evening will be a first for City on a Hill Church. We're hosting an outdoor service in honor of one of the neighborhood's we've adopted. It happens to be the neighborhood right behind our church.

Last weekend, we placed a flyer advertising the event on every door of the approximately 100 homes located in this neighborhood. We've gone around to local businesses in our community asking for donations, and our merchants have stepped up to the plate in a great way!

We'll have a Moon Bounce and a Cotton Candy machine for the kids, worship and the Gospel message offering hope for these folks. We'll top it all off with free giveaways of gift cards and coupons that were collected from our community's businesses.

The objective of the evening primarily rests in bringing souls into the Kingdom of Heaven. We want to let our neighborhood know that we love them, and more importantly, that God loves them. I'm so excited to see what God does!

The Importance of Looking Foolish

Did you know that God wants you to look foolish sometimes?

It's through these foolish appearances, that God is doing something great in and through us. Think about how foolish Noah looked building that ark in front of his neighbors and family. Can you imagine how much of a joke he became?

What about the young David? A shepherd tweener with a sling shot taking on not just a professional soldier, but a giant one at that! How many wise cracks did he overhear from his brothers and the other Jewish soldiers? Even Goliath taunted him to his face - right before David's stone killed him.

When we find ourselves in the midst of a difficult situation, God sometimes calls us to look foolish. It's at that precise moment, that we're faced with the question "Am I more concerned about what I want than with what God wants?" When we step forward with courage and understand the importance of looking foolish to the big picture of our lives, we find a whole new perspective on life.

Mark Batterson wrote a book a few years ago called "In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day." The book focuses on a couple of verses found in 2 Samuel about a guy named Benaiah who jumped into a pit on a snowy day to kill a lion. Benaiah succeeded in killing the lion and became the commander in chief for Kings David and Solomon.

Imagine the courage it took for Benaiah to jump into that pit. Imagine how foolish he looked at first to anyone who may have been watching. We can't deny that there are fine lines separating courage, risk and looking foolish.

This weekend at City on a Hill Church, we're wrapping up a series on suffering. We're going to talk about "Attitudes in the Midst of Anguish." In this message, I'll share three important attitudes that we should have in the midst of our trials and tribulations. Courage is at the top of the list.

We'd love to see you there!

Missed Opportunities

Fear is powerful. It can keep us from responding to God's call on our lives. Just as importantly, fear, coupled with pride, can keep us from taking advantage of opportunities from which we can benefit.

This morning I met with a representative at Piedmont United Way to get educated about all the programs in Culpeper to help those who need a hand. I was truly amazed at all of the programs that are in place through government agencies, churches, ministries and other non-profit groups that are in place simply to help people. There is no justifiable reason for sincere people in our community to remain in need with all of these opportunities for assistance in place.

Of course, fear keeps people where they are... hungry, lonely and in need. It's fear of the unknown, fear of rejection that keeps them down and out. It's fear and pride together that can shackle a person to poverty with no hope of freedom.

The same is true in our lives as Christians. We see where God is calling us to, but we remain still out of fear and pride. What if I fail? What will other people think?

Honestly, there are too many "what ifs" in life to consider. We need to stop being afraid of the unknowns and walk by faith, not by sight. We need to stop worrying about what other people think because all of us need help from time to time. God wants us to use every available resource that we have to enjoy an abundant life, including assistance programs. We need to stop fearing failure in our lives because failure is inevitable. It's what we do with that failure - how we respond and learn from it - that's important.

Let's open our eyes and recognize the resources around us. Let's recognize them for what they are: opportunities for us to become who God wants us to be.

No Miracles Without Messes

If you find yourself in a mess, just remember... there are no miracles without messes. You can't be healed without first being sick. You can't overcome without first being challenged.

King Jehoshaphat and the Jews faced an insurmountable enemy in 2 Chronicles 20. Jehoshaphat was a good king who loved the Lord and who led his people in righteousness. Yet, God was allowing enemies to threaten the lives and freedom of His people.

It was through this mess that God worked a miracle to give the Jews victory and extended peace with the surrounding nations. It was through suffering that God prepared Jehoshaphat and the Jews for the miraculous. That's what God does in our lives, too.

When we find ourselves in a mess, God is preparing our hearts and minds for what He wants to do in our lives. Jehoshaphat responded with praise and worship. We get the contemporary worship song "His Love Endures Forever" from King Jehoshaphat's worshipful response.

This weekend at City on a Hill Church, we're continuing a series on Suffering with a message on how we're changed through our messes. Join us at 11am!

Church Rejects

If you think about it, many of those who followed Jesus during His ministry on earth were people who were the "unwantables." They were those who society rejected in some way or another. Yet Jesus accepted them just as they were.

There are many churches throughout our country that avoid those kind of people. You know who I'm talking about. The people who don't look like us, dress like us or talk like us. So who's reaching out to them if the Church isn't? That's easy. Satan is.

People want to be accepted, and they typically want to belong. If given the chance to join a group of people who will love them and invest them, most everyone will not hesitate. Why not simply do what Jesus did and begin to minister to everyone who needs Jesus - not just those with which we're comfortable.

Would you dare pray for your church to be filled with people rejected by most other churches?

Next Step

God has been gracious to City on a Hill Church in allowing us to take one step at a time in our growth. My wife and I launched the church in our home basement using our empty dining room as children's ministry space.

The next step... By October of last year, we had moved into our current building with a sanctuary that seats 60 people and two children's ministry classrooms.

The next step... A few months ago, we took over yet another office in our rented building to add a multi-purpose room for children's ministry and office space.

The next step... I received word last night from the building owners that we're allowed to proceed with plans for renovations to increase the size of our sanctuary and occupy more space in the building for children's ministry.

The next step... Only God knows...

Extra Baggage

Those of us who have ever been on a diet know what it's like to need to lose something that just doesn't want to disappear. But when it does, it's like we've emptied ourselves of extra baggage we've been lugging around.

In Philippians 2:3-11, the Apostle Paul tells us that Jesus emptied Himself of something, too.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

In this case, Jesus emptied Himself of something that He deserved. In order to accomplish, God's sovereign plan of redemption for the human race, Jesus had to come to earth, make himself nothing, be a servant and walk in obedience to die a cruel, humiliating death by crucifixion.

According to God's Word, we're to have an attitude similar to that of Christ. We're to empty ourselves of what we think we deserve in order to be other-centered and accomplish God's will in and through our lives.

As a result of Jesus' obedience, God has been glorified, Jesus' name has been exalted and every knee will bow before the Lord Jesus Christ. As a result of our faith in Christ and obedience, God will be glorified, Jesus' name will be exalted and we will be seated with Christ in the heavenly realms for eternity.

Let's get rid of the extra baggage of pride and desire of recognition. Let's get rid of the attitude that says, "I deserve more." Christ emptied Himself of what He deserved for the sake of others. We certainly don't deserve more than He. Let's get our eyes off of ourselves and on others.

Wins

To be a successful sports franchise, you must win. At City on a Hill Church, we celebrate wins, too!

We all understand that Christianity isn't a game, but the analogy helps us understand what our goals are and how important it is to celebrate along the way. Here are just a few wins we've celebrated recently:

-The "adoption" of two neighborhoods in our community by meeting their needs in practical ways
-The lives impacted because they were reminded that God loves them and hasn't forgotten about them
-Our first year anniversary as a church
-Our first annual Leadership Retreat
-The significant growth we've experienced during the summer season when most churches decline or plateau
-The addition of people using their gifts to serve in ministry
-The addition of two new Life Groups starting up this month
-Several people giving their lives to Christ for the first time or rededicating their lives to Him

May all the glory be to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

I'm looking forward to many more wins for the Kingdom of God!!

Adoption

So often we see commercials or ads asking us to adopt children in Third World countries to feed them and provide school supplies. These are children who have been abandoned. Their society doesn't want them, so some NPO has taken them in and overseeing their welfare.

In Culpeper, there are neighborhoods filled with people who have been abandoned. Even local churches have turned their back on these neighborhoods. Perhaps the local churches believe they are too hard to reach. Perhaps the local churches would prefer to reach more affluent people who could make a difference in their budgets.

At City on a Hill Church, we're adopting neighborhoods. That's right. We're actually going to the neighborhoods that the other local churches are ignoring. The people in these neighborhoods have been crying out to God in their own way, and now God is sending us because we're simply saying to God, "Here I am."

As a result, people are turning to the Lord for answers. People are giving their lives to Christ. People are finding value in themselves and are being reminded that God loves them.

I love the fact that God is using us in these special ways. I hope it never stops.

Family Service Sunday

This Sunday is Family Service Sunday at City on a Hill Church. Our Family Services focus on a worship experience for the entire family. Meaningful worship for the young and old. A message that reaches both the kids and adults. Our children will be serving in a variety of ministry positions.

I'm really looking forward to the Lord ministering to our families this Sunday. Please join us at 11am at 405 Sperryville Pike in Culpeper.

Eliezer

Eliezer was Abraham's top servant - kind of his "right hand man." When we read the story of how he was sent to find a wife for Isaac in Genesis 24, we can see that Eliezer wasn't the kind of guy who did the bare minimum. He was an "and then some" servant. He did what he was asked and then some.

Jesus told us in the Sermon on the Mount, "If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles." (Matt 5:41) The person that goes the second mile is going above and beyond. He/She is an "and then some" servant.

We need to apply this principle in our ministry at our local church. Am I doing the bare minimum just to fill that need or am I going the extra mile that could really make a difference?

We also need to apply this principle in our personal relationship with Christ. Am I simply showing up on Sunday mornings or am I really giving God a chance to mold me and grow me to be more like Him?

Preparations

The Boy Scouts warn us, "Always be prepared." I respond, "Nice pipe dream." If you're like me, being prepared for the curve balls, the fast balls and the switch-ups that life throws at you isn't always easy. In fact, it's down right impossible sometimes.

This week, school is starting for millions of students across our great land. Abby Rae is excited about the beginning of First Grade while we're not quite sure about Emma who is now old enough for K-4.

What's it going to be like to have two of our three out of the house?

Will Abby Rae like her new teacher?

How will Emma adjust to being at school for three half-days per week?

Could we have prepared them any better for this fateful week? Could we have prepared ourselves any better?

The best preparation I know of is simple really - prayer. After all, we're talking about preparing our hearts and minds for what the future holds. We already bought the school supplies (by the way, do triangular pencils really make that much of a difference?).

Parents, have you prayed that your heart would be ready for the absence of your student from your home? Have you prayed for protection over his heart and mind as he steps out in faith to make new friends, exposing himself to rejection? Have you prayed for protection over her heart and mind as she adjusts to not having mom, dad and siblings there as a comfort during those tough days when things just don't make sense?

While we may not all be prepared logistically for every possible scenario, let's get prepared with prayer. It's the least we can do. It's also the most we can do!

Property of God

People are not the property of any particular local church body.

Have you ever considered that?

We're all owned by God alone - we're His creation and His children. I believe that we should all respect the work that a local church body has invested into a life. I also believe that another Christian, leader or pastor should not hesitate to minister to a person who is committed to City on a Hill Church when there is an opportunity and when the Holy Spirit is leading him/her. Who am I to say, "You shouldn't minister to that person. That's my job!" In my experience, most growing Christians have a variety of people who are investing in them. The only label I hope to ever see on anyone at COAHC is "Property of God."

Life Groups

I'm excited about the direction of our Discipleship Ministry at City on a Hill Church. We currently offer two Life Groups. We're about to launch a Life Group just for women in the next month. Another Life Group for a specific neighborhood is probably going to be launched in the next 4 to 6 weeks as well.

I've spent the last couple of days selecting our next curriculum that will begin in September. It's looking like it will be something from Phillip Yancey.

I love Life Groups. It's easy for some to want to call what we do a "Bible Study." I genuinely dislike that phrase, though, for describing our purpose for Life Groups. When I think of a Bible Study, I think of one person reading and teaching Scripture, verse by verse. There's very little discussion, if any.

In our Life Groups, the emphasis is on building "body life." Ultimately, it doesn't really matter to me what the curriculum is because that's not nearly as important as the relationships, the connecting and the growing that occurs both vertically (with Christ) and horizontally (with one another) through simply being together discussing the Truth of Scripture and the life that God wants for each and every one of us.

It's not the curriculum that should be motivating our attendance and participation - it's our connection to God and with one another. Our own personal devotional life should inspire us each day. Our Life Group curriculum is nothing more than a supplemental to what God is already doing and speaking into our lives and should never be substituted for our daily time in the Word and in prayer.

The Saga That is Michael Vick

Move over Brett Favre, there's someone else about whom the sports reporters want to talk. He's Michael Vick. The one and only. The man, the myth and the legend who is famous for his elusiveness on the gridiron. And the cruel overseer and participant of a dog-fighting ring which landed him in prison for the last two years.

Michael Vick has been shown mercy. He has been forgiven by some and will once again have a chance to strap on the helmet - this time with the Philadelphia Eagles. Philadelphia - the City of Brotherly Love. Isn't it interesting that it's Philadelphia that is demonstrating grace in the life of Michael Vick?

Tony Dungy, former Head Coach for the Indianapolis Colts and outspoken man of faith, has also become involved in Vick's life. Dungy visited Vick while he was imprisoned, and now has taken the younger Michael under his wing as a protoge.

Dungy understands the importance of investment. Dungy lost his son to suicide in 2005. Perhaps seeing this as an opportunity for redemption in his own life, Dungy has come alongside Vick as a mentor and an accountability partner. The relationship between these two men is a reminder to all of us of the importance of mentoring and accountability. We all need both in our lives. Just as important, there's someone in your life who needs mentoring and accountability from you.

Leadership Retreat

This weekend, leaders from City on a Hill Church are going to a Leadership Retreat in Massanutten, VA. We're going to spend all day Friday learning what good leadership looks like. Then on Saturday, we'll apply that knowledge and wisdom to strategic planning for the next 12 months at COAHC.

I'm really looking forward what God is going to do through this retreat. We've got some great information to discuss from leaders like John Maxwell and Andy Stanley. We're going to look critically at everything we do as a church - no holds barred and no sacred cows allowed!

I believe that unless Scripture gives a clear formula for a particular ministry, then it's always considered an experiment and should always be up for evaluation and change. Too many churches get comfortable with what Andy Stanley calls "couches." These are the areas within a church that are comfortable for people and remain the same without any critical evaluation. We need to get rid of couches from the Church. They facilitate laziness and are ineffective in transforming lives.

Oh, and the home we're renting from Massanutten Vacations this weekend is called Joyful Passage. Gotta love it! Such a God thing...

Where Has God Gone?

We've probably all faced at least one trial in life that left us wondering, "Where has God gone?" It's in the darkest hours of our lives that makes us feel as though God is no longer with us. He's forgotten about us.

Last night, I spent some time in a neighborhood in Culpeper where most are struggling with a variety of different issues. One lady lost her job and can't pay her rent. Another family can't afford to buy diapers for their one-year old son. One mother is on disability and has a grown, autistic son and can't afford to buy clothes after all the bills are paid. Some families can't afford to buy school supplies for their kids. One unemployed young man is now living with his struggling father after having eaten out of garbage cans jsut to survive. Many families can't afford to buy basic groceries on a weekly basis.

After spending time with these folks last night, it was obvious many have been wondering, "Where has God gone?"

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV

"...And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:20 NIV

These two verses remind us of the Truth that God has not gone anywhere. He's still on the throne. He's still watching our every move. He knows our needs. He knows our hurts. He still loves us just as much as He ever did!

As I shared this Truth with some of the folks last night, it was easy to see hope begin to fill their eyes once again. I could see their countenance change. In a dark place where Satan's grip has held tightly for a long time, Light was brought in the form of a few bags of groceries, some encouraging words and the victory that is found in the form of Biblical Truth.

My friends, prepare for transformed lives. Prepare for riches in our glorious Christ. Prepare for an abundant life that transcends all worldly wealth!