The Grip of God

Some folks from our Baptist Association are in West Africa on a mission trip. The wife of one of the team members has been emailing me updates on their journey. She shared a humorous story.

On Sunday, they worshipped in an African village. During the service, a rat snake "lost it's grip" and fell from the rafters. The snake landed on one of the female team members, who, eventually, was cornered. She had to climb over some pews to get away from the snake. I am told the villagers thought this was hilarious. The lady on whom the snake fell didn't think it was funny.

I found a phrase in the email I received, which detailed the incident, interesting. The snake "lost its grip." If you don't have hands, I suppose a firm grip is rather elusive.

Get A Grip

In our home, with kids the ages of 14, 5, and 3, we frequently have a free-flow of emotions. More than once, I've heard my wife say "get a grip on it." She means "control your emotions," or "stop letting your feelings run away with you."

Our son Jared was frequently having emotional "melt-downs." At the end of last year, we took him to an allergy expert who prescribed a series of allergy tests. The tests revealed he was allergic to several food ingredients and environmental properties, including milk. So, once we eliminated the gallons of chocolate milk from his routine, his behavior dramatically improved.

There are things we need to remove from our routines and replace them with items essential to a healthy spiritual diet. However, the important thing is that we have placed our faith in God whose grip never slips.

The Bible says, The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him (Nahum 1:7, KJV).

So, as we feel our grip on "things" slipping away, turn to the one who has a strong hold.

T-Ball Tournament Over...AMEN!

Last night, we played two games in the tournament that began on Monday of last week. Due to several "rain outs" the tournament took longer to complete than scheduled. Our team finished as the "runner-up."

Jared continues to make improvement. Saturday, he played in the dirt for a majority of the two games. Last night, I didn't see him play in the dirt once.

We made four 60 mile round trips to these tournaments games in the last week. I'm glad it's over, but it was fun.

Foggy Morning Drive Clears My Mind

I like to drive. This morning I drove to Mobile, AL to pray with one of our attenders who is having surgery. At 5:45 AM, I left Leakesville. There was heavy fog all along the way to Mobile, which made the drive a little stressful.

However, I was able to do a lot of thinking and, at times, do a lot of non-thinking by listening to my favorite Sports Talk Radio Station in Mobile. The topic of the day was tonight's NCAA Men's Basketball Championship between Kansas and Memphis. I'm picking Memphis. My Mississippi State Bulldogs almost beat them in the 2nd Round of the tournament. MSU lost to them 77-74. No one else in the tournament has even come close to beating them.

Yesteday at FBC

Al Fike spoke in our morning service. He did a great job on a relevant topic. He spoke on "How To Deal With A Crisis." His sermon was based on Acts 27, which records Paul's voyage to Rome.

One point has stayed with me this morning: REFUSE TO DRIFT. It's so easy to just "go with the flow." However, I believe God wants us to be intentional.

Al used over new overhead projectors for the first time. His presentation was sharp, which seemed to impress everyone.

The choir did a great job as usual.

The only downer was the A/C was out in the sanctuary, but, since the outside temperature was not too bad, the worship center was not too uncomfortable.

Last night, I preached at a local church, which began a series of Revival Services that will meet on Sunday evenings in April. So, Boo White preached here and the Praise Band led in worship. I've heard nothing but positive comments.

Jared Plays Catcher

Since there was a "rain out" Tuesday, Jared played his second T-Ball game last night. He played catcher, which gave him the chance to wear the fancy face mask. I think he felt important. At times, he appeared to be more in charge of the plate than anyone else. He is so funny.

I don't know where he learned this (really, I don't), but he would actually get down into a catcher's stance and, when the batter made it into the box, he would growl. We might have to start calling him "The Beast."

We're Going to Miss This

Yesterday, was a incredibly busy day. However, our family team rose to the occasion.

Charlee, our little girl, is three years old. She has experienced developmental delays since she was placed in our home back in 2005. However, she has been making a lot of progress. She is not talking extensively, but she does have about 20 words or more that she uses.

When she was placed in our home, she did not cry for several days. Her neck was not strong enough to hold her head up. All of these signs point to the fact that she must not have received all the attention she needed when she was a newborn.

For the last year, Charlee has undergone several tests to determine if she has any problems cognitively or otherwise. Nothing has ever been discovered. Terri is a super mother, who has really advocated for Jared and Charlee. She really knows her stuff and I enjoy hearing her talk to doctors. She uses "their language." At times, I think it's disconcerting for them, but I believe they respect her.

Yesterday, we had an appointment with a Genetics Expert at the University Medical Center. He examined her and concluded there is nothing wrong with Charlee "structurally." So, he did not see any reason to undergo extensive genetics testing.

He did refer us to a doctor in Hattiesburg who is will use a more trained eye to examine a MRI taken of Charlee a few months ago. This is just to rule out any problems.

God has blessed us with three wonderful children. Abbey is 14. So, it is so fun to compare her early years to those of the younger kids. Sometimes, I feel a little old (I'm 43) to be having a 3 year old and a 5 year old, but I can't imagine my life without them.

Yesterday, we left the house around 8:30 and drove to my parents house, which is on the way to Jackson. We left Abbey and Jared with them. We went to Jackson to meet with the doctor. I visited a patient at a hospital in the area. We left Jackson around 4:00 PM. Then, we picked up the kids from our parents. Drove straight to Sand Hill for Jared to play his T-Ball game which started at 7:30 PM. We arrived home at 10:00 PM.

While these are hectic times, they are good times. I want to make the most of my days. Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus on this subject.

"See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time,..."--Ephesians 5:15-16a (NKJV)

I want to redeem the time. Life is brief.

The great theologian Trace Adkins (Ha Ha) has a song entitled "You're Going to Miss This." The words are so appropriate for my life right now:

Five years later
There's a plumber
Working on the water heater
Dogs barking, phones ringing
One kids crying, one kids screaming
She keeps apologizing
He says "They don't bother me.
I've got two babies of my own.
One's 36, one's 23.
It's hard to believe...

"But You're going to miss this
You're going to want this back
You're going to wish these days
Hadn't gone by so fast
These are some good times
So take a good look around
You may not know it now
But you're going to miss this
You're going to miss this
Yeah you're going to miss this

We Are Not Consumed

Last night in our prayer service, I shared a devotion based on Lamentations 3:22-24.

The writer of Lamentations, probably Jeremiah, mourned several losses in a series of laments. For years, Jeremiah had warned his people that God was going to punish them for refusing to honor Him. Finally, God allowed the Babylonians to completely destroy their land and carry them into captivity.

The first six verses of Lamentations, Chapter 3, record deep turmoil within God's "weeping prophet." He wrote:

1 I am the man who has seen affliction by the rod of His wrath. 2 He has led me and made me walk In darkness and not in light. 3 Surely He has turned His hand against me Time and time again throughout the day. 4 He has aged my flesh and my skin, And broken my bones. 5 He has besieged me And surrounded me with bitterness and woe. 6 He has set me in dark places Like the dead of long ago.

These words are those of a man struggling to process the awfulness of his times. No plastic smile adorns his face. For several more verses, the writer detailed his remorse over losing security, respect, and prosperity. However, in the midst of disaster he remembers his God. Then, he wrote:

21 This I recall to my mind,
Therefore I have hope.
22 Through the LORD’s mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not.
23 They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
24 “ The LORD is my portion,” says my soul,
“ Therefore I hope in Him!”

The idea I get from this passage is that, if God wanted, he could have done more than just have His people held in captivity. The prophet was blessed just to be alive. While living in comfort is nice, living at all is a blessing. As Christians we should want to live as long as we can. While pain is the name of the game in human relationships and in the spiritual maturation process, God's compassions are "new every morning." God is faithful. Hope in Him and live.

"Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed.

Al Fike to Speak at FBC this Sunday

Al Fike, a native of Leakesville, will speak in our morning service this Sunday. Al is an interesting guy. He has been speaking for churches and corporations for over 30 years. He graduated from William Carey University and New Orleans Baptist Seminary. Also, he has recently written a book entitled "The Ultimate Self-Help Book: 31 Days in Proverbs."

He was on one of the major Morning Shows in Dallas this past Tuesday. He was promoting his Clean Comedy Tour. The interview is on his website. He plays his hands, as well as a hand saw. Check out his website http://www.alfike.com/.

Almost Fully "Multimedia-fied"

Tonight, during our Prayer Service, we utilized our overhead projectors for the first time. We just used them to scroll announcements before the service. Everybody present was excited to see them in action. We have two Hitachi Projectors. We placed a screen in the baptistry and one on the back wall. The front projector is 4000 lumen and the projector in the back is 3000 lumen. The images seemed to be very bright. Everybody was pleased. We are going to break them in slowly to make sure we don't have any major glitches during the services. While many churches have had projectors for years, this is a major step for us. I pray for wisdom to use the projectors effectively to enhance our worship services.

Opening Day

While the pros opened their season today, a much more important opening day occurred. My son's T-Ball Team played their first game tonight near Sandhill, MS. They won (29-25 in an extra inning). My son, Jared, made it to first base each time he was at bat. Also, he scored every time--sliding into home "head-first," whether he needed to or not. (I guess I shouldn't have shown him that Pete Rose highlight reel.) Lord, please help me not to live vicariously through my son.

The only problem I have with them winning is that this guarantees that they will have to play Tuesday and Thursday night. If they win tomorrow night, they will have to play Thurs. and Friday. A win Thursday will insure them the opportunity to play on Saturday for the championship. This is turning out to be work. Sandhill is 30 miles away. Go team!

Thanks to A. J.'s Quickstop for sponsoring the team.

Glad to See You!

This morning, we had some folks in our service who have not been able to worship with us for some traumatic reasons. It was great to see them. We had a young lady present, who was severely injured in a accident at the Dixie National Rodeo in Jackson several weeks ago.

Also, we had the father and sister of a young man who is recovering from a major trauma he sustained several weeks ago. This young man was told he probably wouldn't make it through the first week. If so, he would never breathe on his own. If so, he would never walk. Well, he is a living miracle three times over! He still has a long way to go. However, it was so great to have some of his family with us.

This morning I recognized these families. We have spent many hours praying for them and, many times, I am guilty of not expressing gratitude to God for miraculous answers to prayer. Our church was really electrified with excitement as I shared what God is doing.

Saturday Night with the Neighbors

Boo White is our Minister of Youth at our church. Last October, they moved into our staff house, which is next to the parsonage where our family lives. They have two sweet kids, which have become my son Jared's new brother and sister.

Tonight, they came by for a visit around 4:00 PM. Boo and I had a chance to dream about the Student Ministry for a while. Missy and Terri engaged in spirited conversation. Then, we decided to pool our resources and eat a meal together.

After that, we played the old game Scattergories, which was a blast. We laughed and laughed. What a blessing to have someone on staff that is so much fun.

Texas or Bust

Well, after Tennessee's loss to Louisville last night, Texas is the only team I picked to make it to the Final Four that is still alive in the NCAA Basketball Tournament. Good thing I'm not a betting man.

Anyone Can Be President

Teacher: "John, what's wrong? Why do you look so depressed?"
John: "I am worried about my future."
Teacher: "Well, have you talked to your father?"
John: "Yes, but he only makes me feel worse."
Teacher: "What does he say?"
John: "He says I should be grateful to live in America, because in America anyone can be presdient."
Teacher: "Doesn't that make you feel better?"
John: "No!"
Teacher: "Why?"
John: "Because, in America, ANYONE can be president!"

We do live in a nation blessed with great freedom and opportunities. However, we are reminded everyday by the media that they have flaws. For me, anyone that is willing to serve the citizens of our country on any level of government is to be applauded. People are hard to deal with and I am amazed at how some public officials are able to get things accomplished in light of unrealistic expectations and vicious personal attacks.

Paul wrote to Timothy:

1Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority,that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (I Timothy 2:1-4, NKJV).

While I don't agree with many of the policies and actions of the leaders in our Federal Government, I am obligated to pray for them.

Please pray for leaders in your local, state, and national government today. They need Christians to pray for them.

Multimedia Progress and Other Stuff

Video Projectors

Today, a crew from Mississippi Music arrived to install our video projectors and screens. This will enhance our worship services greatly. I can't wait.

Kairos Prison Ministry

The Kairos Prison Ministry Team is in town to complete a retreat at the South Mississippi Correctional Center. They usually bring around 40 volunteers who live throughout the area. They stay in our activities building. Many of their meals are served here. Fortunately or unfortunately, they usually pass along a ton of leftovers. They have some incredible cooks.

Phones Fixed

A TDS technician came today and fixed our phones. When we changed our fax line and upgraded to DSL a few weeks ago, our phone system just was not right. Now, I can have a phone conversation without someone else in the office picking up and interrupting. A pastor needs to be able to protect the confidentiality of the folks that call for assistance.

I'm getting a lot checked off my list today, but, I'm not going to be able to watch any of the NCAA Basketball Tournament. Aw, shucks!

The Bozemans

The chairman of my Doctoral Committee at New Orleans Seminary was Jeanine Bozeman. This past Monday her husband, Dr. Welby Bozeman, died unexpectedly. Yesterday, at 4:00 PM, the visitation began at First Baptist Covington, LA. Since the funeral is scheduled for Friday in Dozier, AL (about 170 miles from here), I decided to leave at 1:30 PM yesterday afternoon. Bro. Jimmy Holcomb offered to lead a Bible Study for our Mid-Week service. While I made the 288 mile round-trip without a problem and was able to arrive just a few minutes before 7:00 PM, I was so glad Bro. Jimmy did the devotion for me. He did a great job.

Dr. Welby Bozeman was a long-time professor at Louisiana College in Pineville. He had been married to Dr. Jeanine Bozeman for 47 years. Terri and I were blessed to be special guests at their 40th Wedding Anniversary back in 2000. Also, when Terri and I lived in Alaska, the Bozemans visited us and we enjoyed giving them a tour of Anchorage.

Jeanine Bozeman is one of those persons that I could never do enough to repay for all she has invested in my life. She went way beyond the call of duty in pushing and kicking me through the Ph.D. program at NOBTS. She did the premarital counseling for Terri and I. Frequently, I bring to mind some of the things she told us in those sessions.

During the 2005 Fall Semester that I completed my dissertation and graduated, Hurricane Katrina devastated the seminary in August. Dr. Bozeman's townhouse, which was on campus, flooded. While all of the other colleges in New Orleans cancelled their semesters, New Orleans Seminary resumed classes in October.

Amidst this incredibly emotional time, Dr. Bozeman stayed committed to helping me finish my dissertation. Since the seminary campus was closed for several months, I visited her home in Covington to discuss my research. Once she carried me into her garage and showed me the belongings she had retrieved from her place in New Orleans. That was a sad sight. She never tried to hide her struggle. Dr. Bozeman has always been "real." She is genuine.

So, I had to go and let her know I love her. While I saw her for only 2 minutes, I was able to express my love for her and my appreciation for Dr. Welby. I cried. She cried. We hugged. I'm glad I went. True friends are rare.

Sentence Sermonettes

In a hospital gift shop in Mobile, AL, I saw a “coffee table” book that contained a photo collection dedicated to phrases posted on church signs. Ever since that day, I have regretted not buying the book and I can’t find it anywhere. Examples of some of those “sentence sermonettes” are:

The Light of the World gives a world of light.

America suffers from truth decay.

If God seems far away, who moved?

To belittle is to be little.

There are no fire escapes in Hell.

If you are a child of God, call home.

Statements like these are written to achieve various purposes. Some are to shock. Others are to inspire or to amuse.

A local church placed this question on their placard this week:

Has Jesus risen in you?

I’ve pondered that question a lot in the last few days. Jesus told that religious guy named Nicodemus that he had to be “born again.” He was referring to a spiritual transformation. Since God demonstrated His resurrection power in raising Jesus from the dead, he can raise us from our spiritual graves to new life.

John, one of the “Sons of Thunder” that Jesus changed, was inspired to write:

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (I John 1:9, NKJV).

God is faithful. God is just. God is forgiving. God is a life changer.

Just as John, a man who must have had an explosive tempter, was changed into a disciple that God would use to write incredible passages encouraging believers to love one another, he can change anyone.

Has Jesus risen in You?

Resurrection Sunday

We had a great day at First Baptist. One of my deacon's said he counted 184 in the morning worship service, which is the most I believe we have had in the 28 months I have been pastor here. Our worship center will only hold around 210. So, the attendance was a blessing.

The choir was "filled to the rim" and the three songs they shared each had powerful messages. The final song was "I Stand Redeemed." We are blessed to have Mike Smith as our Minister of Music. I do not know of a more dedicated bivocational Minister of Music in the state.

My sermon was based on the two disciples that traveled the Emmaus Road following the death and resurrection of Jesus. Read the account recorded in Luke 24:13-35 here.

The men on the road to Emmaus experienced a journey, which began in sadness and ended in hope.

I. Sad Journey (vv.13-17)
II. Confusing Journey (vv.18-24)
III. Challenging Journey (vv.25-27)
IV. Revealing Journey (vv.28-31)
V. Hopeful Journey (vv.32-35)

Through the power of the resurrection, God transforms our spiritual journeys from restless striving to be "good enough" into a relationship based on His unmerited favor.

Good Friday Thoughts

On Good Friday in 1964, a priest in Anchorage, AK was reading scripture during a service. When he came to the section regarding the earthquake that occurred while Jesus was on the cross, a real earthquake shook the area. Actually, this was the "Big One." This quake was one of the most powerful earthquakes ever to hit a populated area in North America. The city was destroyed. Read about it here.

I lived in Anchorage for over 3 years. Philip Griffin was one of the members of Raspberry Road Baptist, which I served as Associate Pastor. Mr. Griffin was living in Anchorage at the time of the big quake. He said when he first felt the earth shaking he ran outside. He saw many people laying on the ground and he remembered thinking that he wasn't going to be a wimp like them. So, he remained standing. Then, he saw the ground rolling like waves on the ocen. Consequently, he was violently thrown to the ground.

As a result of the 1964 earthquake, large amounts of money were invested in rebuilding the city. Eventually, the city was restored and soon began to thrive. While the catastrophe was a bad thing for the city, ultimiately, the rebuilding of the city was a great stimulus to the economy. Also, many people were drawn to Anchorage to work and, when they discovered the beauty of Alaska, they stayed. Good Friday 1964 was a dark day. However, the dark day transformed life in the city for the good.

As Jesus died on the cross, the Bible says the earth was covered with darkness. Jesus struggled, but eventually he "yielded" His spirit. The death of Jesus is a dark day upon the pages of history. However, as Christians we believe the death of Jesus was not the end. He had predicted he would be in the grave 3 days, then, the resurrection.

Please don't forget the pain Jesus endured. We remember that pain on this Good Friday. We should mourn what placed Jesus on the cross. However, as stated in I Thess. 4:13, we do not "sorrow as others who have no hope."

The Most Difficult Time for Jesus?

Last night, during our mid-week service, I gave a devotion based on the final words Jesus spoke to His mother and to John, the disciple He loved. The powerful words are recorded in John 19:26-27.

After the service, I discussed the passage with Jimmy Holcomb our Area Director of Missions. He made a great observation. He said he believes this was the most difficult time for Jesus during the crucifixion. As Christ saw his mother grieving and broken, Jesus was probably tempted to come down from the cross. How he must have longed to comfort his mother. However, if he had not stayed on the cross, he would not have died for her sins.

I love Mark Lowry's song "Mary Did You Know?" The song includes the words "Mary did you know? The Child you delivered would some day deliver you?"

The scene is a picture of faithfulness:
1) A Mother being faithful to her son.
2) Friends being faithful to a friend.
3) A Disciple being faithful to his Lord.
4) Jesus being faithful to His Father.

Also, in John 19:26-27, you see the following:

1)Jesus acknowledged his mother.
2) Jesus arranged care for his mother.
3) Jesus affirmed trust in John.
4) John accepted and accomplished this charge.

In the midst of dying for the sins of the world, Jesus cared for his mother and affirmed the "disciple he loved." None of us would have blamed him for not focusing on others during this horrific ordeal, but that's not like Jesus. That's why we call Him "Savior."

Madness in March

The NCAA Basketball Tournament begins this week. My MSU Bulldogs made the tournament for the first time in a few years. So, I'm excited. I believe they can beat Oregon and Memphis, but that's probably as far as they will go.

Lots of folks fill out the brackets. My friend Ken and I have been doing this for years. I go to Yahoo! and fill out a bracket online so that I don't lose my picks. For what it is worth, my Final Four: Tennessee, Georgetown, Texas, Duke. I predict Georgetown and Duke will be in the Championship, with the Hoyas taking it all.

The House of Prayer

On the Tuesday before he was crucified, Jesus went into the temple and really shook things up. Read about it in Matthew 21:12-17.

I preached from this passage last year. Notice five things here. (I developed two general outlines. So, notice ten.)

I. The Indignation (v.12)- Purity

The Bible says, "Jesus went into the temple of God and drove out all those who bought and sold in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves." Christ was not just disappointed by what he saw, he was enraged by what he saw in the Court of the Gentiles.

Josephus stated 200,000 Lambs would be required for the Passover feast. These lambs were purchased to be sacrificed for the sins of the people. So, this was big business. Also, a temple tax of ½ shekel was collected. Foreign coins bearing a non-Jewish (heathen) inscription or non-Jewish monarch would not be accepted. So, money changers converted secular money into sacred coins…for a processing fee which padded the pockets of the money changers. Also, these "bankers" would arrange unfair loans for the poor. Jesus was not pleased with what he saw.

II. The Indictment (v.13)- Prayer

13 And He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’” [See Is. 56:7-8; Mark 11:17]

My prayer is that our church would be a house of prayer. We have deacons assigned to pray during the morning service. Each Sunday at 9:00 AM, I have a faithful group of men that pray with me and for me. I started this when I first came to FBC. These men are a great blessing to me.

Jesus' charge that the Temple had become a "den of thieves" cautions us against commercializing religion. We should use the media and other technological means to get the message out, but we need to be sure we are not just doing business.

III. The Infirmed (v. 14)- Power

14 Then the blind and the lame came to Him in the temple, and He healed them.

Once the Temple was cleansed, folks were healed and the power of God was displayed.

IV. The Infuriated (15-16a)- Praise

15 But when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that He did, and the children crying out in the temple and saying, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” they were indignant 16 and said to Him, “Do You hear what these are saying?”

Hosanna means “Save Now.” The Temple was filled with the praises of children and the religious folks were upset when they saw the "wonderful things he did."

Some church folks are never going to be happy, even if Jesus shows up and performs miracles. They are not going to be happy when children start to "get it." However, a church that is a "House of Prayer" will be a house of praise. Wonderful things will happen. Jesus will show up.

V. The Innocent (16b-17)- Prophecy

And Jesus said to them, “Yes. Have you never read, ‘Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise’?”17 Then He left them and went out of the city to Bethany, and He lodged there.

The Prophecy is from Psalm 8:2. The children in our church are a blessing. I love to hear them sing, because they have great freedom in expressing their joy.

Truths from the Passage

1. Be angry for the right reasons at the right time in the right way.

2. Maintaining purity requires drastic measures.

3. Prayer is to be our priority. Hallesby said, "Neglect Prayer. Neglect God."

4. Jesus is to be praised.

5. Religious people have a hard time with people sold-out to Jesus.

My prayer for you today is that you would take steps to insure that your church is a "House of Prayer" and that your home is a "House of Prayer."

Late Night T-Ball Practice

Jared, our son, is playing T-Ball for the first time. He retired from soccer after two seasons. Baseball has always been his first choice. So, he's been to about 4 practices now.

Tonight his practice began at 7:30 PM and wasn't over until around 8:40 PM. The coach always makes the little guys run the bases two or three times before concluding the practice. I'm always amazed at the energy they have. Even after an hour, they were still energetic. As we walked back to our car, Jared insisted on swinging on the "monkey bars" at the playground.

Jared is throwing the ball well. His fielding is good when he is paying attention, but "when" is the operative word in that sentence. However, I do take great pride in seeing him out there. We'll keep him in baseball as long as we can. Then, it's to the Big Leagues. We'll probably just skip college. :)

Sunday Morning Phone Call

Yesterday morning at 7:15 AM, a friend of mine, who lives several miles away, called with some disturbing news. His teenage son who was out with some friend had taken “some pills” and, inadvertently, almost overdosed. The boy was taken to a hospital. The father, who called me, had been up all night with his boy. His voice was shaky and each word spoken was strained. His heart was broken and filled with confusion and guilt and anger and…love.

He said, “I let this happen right under my nose. How did I miss this?” As I expressed love over the phone, the best I could, he said, “I’m going to get him some help. He hates me right now, but I’ve got to do something.” That’s the way love talks.

Jesus Cried for Jerusalem

On the Monday before he was crucified, Luke records that Jesus looked over the “Holy City” and cried. He wept because he knew the city would be destroyed by Romans, who would not “leave one stone on another.” Jesus prophesied, with great remorse, the reason the city would be leveled. The people did not “recognize the time of God’s coming.” (Read Luke 19:41-44 here.)

This prediction would come true. In A.D. 66, the Jews revolted against the Romans. Titus was sent by Rome to squash the rebellion. Roman soldiers attacked the city, encircled it, and held it in siege. Then, after the inhabitants of Jerusalem were near starvation, in A.D. 70, soldiers entered the city and burned it. Historians estimate 600,000 Jews were killed during this assault.

Again, this occurred because they didn’t recognize that Jesus was God in flesh. He came with his arms outstretched, willing to show love to anyone, but, instead of opening their hearts to him, they rejected Him. This broke the heart of Christ. So, he cried.

Why do people so often respond to love with hate? Why do the ways of God, which were demonstrated by Jesus, incite scorn and despicable actions? Of course, the bottom line is the sinful nature of man.

I don’t sit as one who has never rejected God’s love. At times, I go my own way and I know better.

So, as we begin this Monday before Resurrection Sunday, let us “recognize the time of God’s coming.” May we never forget the pain Jesus experienced not only physically, but, spiritually and emotionally, as he drew closer to the crucifixion.

The Crucifixion of Jesus

While today was Palm Sunday, I decided to focus on the moments Matthew recorded just prior and at the outset of the crcifixion of Jesus.

We examined Matthew 27:27-44. This was my outline.

I. The Hideous Jokes (vv.27-31)

A. Clothing (vv.27-28)

B. Crown and Cane (v.29a)

C. Condescension (v.29b-31)

II. The Horrible Journey (vv.32-35a)

A. Coercion (vv.32-33)

B. Concoction (v.34)

C. Crucifixion (35a)

The Roman had experimented with various forms of execution, but they felt they had discovered the ultimate means to put someone to death. Crucifixion was a death that was 1) painful, 2) shameful, and 3) gradual.

III. The Hateful Judgments (vv.35b-44)

A. Competitions (v.35b)

I once heard Max Lucado refer to the fact that “men were playing games at the foot of the cross.” What a shame. They were oblivious to what was really happening there. Even today people play games under the shadow of the cross. I came up with at least four types of games people play in the shadow of the cross.

1. The game of things. “He who dies with the most toys wins.”
2. The game of talents. “I’ve got what it takes. I’m a one man show, a self-made man.”
3. The game of time. “When I get myself together or things slow down, I’ll commit my life to Jesus.”
4. The game of tradition (“Churchianity”). “I’m a churchgoer and my family has gone to church for years.”

B. Contempt (vv.36-40)

C. Criticism (vv.41-44)

Palm Sunday

“Hosanna! ‘ Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!’” This was the cry of the crowd as Jesus entered Jerusalem. On this Palm Sunday, we celebrate this humble entry of Jesus. He entered the city as a humble servant, but he would leave the City of David as the resurrected Lord.

The Top Fears of Men

During some rare web-surfing-for-fun tonight, I came across an article featured on Yahoo! claiming to list the Top Six fears of men. The writer, David Zinczenko, is from Men’s Health Magazine. He listed the leading fears as the following (the two word summary statements are mine). Zinczenko did not mention he had based his list on any research. So, I’m not sure how valid these are.

1. Hair Loss: That He's Going to Lose His Hair
2. Financial Loss: That He's Going Broke
3. Heart Attack: That He'll Have One Cheeseburger Too Many
4. Unexpected Criticism: That He'll be Called Out in Public
5. Disappointed Child: That His Kid Won't Make the Free Throw
6. Sexual Dysfunction: That He'll Fail to Perform

Regarding #1 and #2, losing my hair and going broke are not big deals for me. My hair is already thinning and, if I was concerned about a large bank roll, I would not be a preacher.

Concerning #3, to be honest, I do think about the possibility of a heart attack, because I have repeatedly comforted families who lost a husband or father to a sudden fatal cardiac event.

As far as #4, the criticism thing is certainly uncomfortable and I don’t like being shamed, but I am usually able to let things slide.

In regard to #5, I do hate to see my child fail and, with our first T-Ball game fast approaching, I am a little nervous for my son’s experience on the diamond. I pray I don’t try to live vicariously through my son.

Finally, being transparent, #6 is a real concern for all men. There’s a difference between being 18 and 43. However, I grow deeper in love with my wife every day and I am thankful for our relationship.

Control the Controllables

I will never forget the day when a friend of mine named Tony told me to stop worrying about things out of my control. He used the term “control the controllables.” When I stopped trying to control people, I was freed. I can’t make anyone do anything. I can’t stop my hair from falling out. However, with God’s help I can lose weight and eat a healthy diet. I can nourish myself spiritually.

Recorded in Hebrews 13:6, The Bible says, So we may boldly say: “ The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?

Today, what is your greatest fear? Can you do anything about it? What would Jesus do? Turn to the Lord for help. Don’t fear men. However, fear not being in a right relationship with God.

Any comments? Would you add any fears to this list?

Turner-Duvall Retirement Village

I serve on the board for the Turner-Duvall Retirement Village here in Leakesville. While the home is under the umbrella of Mississippi Methodist Senior Services (MMSS), many Baptists work for MMSS and several Baptists live in one of their many "homes" in our state.

Tonight, we held one of our meetings at the Grand Avenue Bed and Breakfast here in town. We had a delicious meal. I enjoyed visiting with Alan Brown, Vice-President for Operations for MMSS. He lives in Tupelo, MS and is a member of First Baptist Tupelo.

Alan talked about some of the innovative things MMSS has done in building what they call Green Houses that allow elderly folks to live in a home that has about 10 residents. Each person has a private room with a private bath. There is a central meeting place in the home, which allows residents an opportunity to become involved socially. These Green Houses are built to lessen the institutional feel of the traditional nursing home.

MMSS is a great organization and I am thrilled to be involved with it.

Withitness (“With it”-ness)

Last week, during a lengthy drive to a meeting, I listened to Colin Cowherd on ESPN Radio. Sports shows usually fill my mind with useless information, but, on this show, Cowherd gave a lengthy examination of a word that expanded my vocabulary.

In reference to successful athletes who are keenly aware of their surroundings during competition, he used the term “withitness.” Star quarterbacks can sense the “pressure” from their opponents. Outfielders know the tendencies of base runners and the location of walls as they run in reverse to catch a high fly ball. Simultaneously, successful athletes process information and respond fittingly in order to win.

Moving from the sports world, Cowherd utilized examples of individuals who are oblivious to their environment to illustrate ordinary folks who demonstrate a quality that is the opposite of withitness. For example, he vented his annoyance with people who engage sale clerks in idle chatter and frivolous questions while several individuals wait in line. These people lack withitness. I am not sure Cowherd was using the word in its proper context, but this segment was hilarious. So, I “googled” the term "withitness."

Teachers Need Withitness

“Withitness” was first used by educational psychologist Jacob Kounin to describe teachers who are aware of what is happening in their classrooms. “With it” teachers appear to have “eyes in the back of their heads.” These expert teachers are proactive in limiting behavioral problems. They sense which students require the most urgent disciplinary and corrective actions. Then, they take action, but at the same time they are able to maintain the flow of the learning experience in order to reach their objectives. As a result, a positive “ripple effect” occurs that influences students to comply with the expectations of the teacher. They create momentum and maintain it.

Imagine teaching a class and a student in the middle of the classroom is reading a magazine. While the young man is not the only one not paying attention, the teacher senses that correcting the magazine-page-turning student will have the most impact on influencing the other pupils. So, after she appropriately tells the student to put the magazine away, a “ripple effect” occurs and other students put away unneeded distractions. Then, more students are listening, but only one student was corrected. Withitness requires a teacher to multitask: teaching, listening, looking, evaluating, responding, and correcting.

How Many Churches Have Withitness?

After pondering this educational concept, I was led to evaluate my church’s level of withitness in regard to our community. I am not talking about Sunday School conduct or the behavior of folks during a sermon. Outside our church walls, what are we teaching and modeling for the people we want to connect with our congregations?

Again, I feel compelled to state what I am NOT saying. We do not need to be “with it” in terms of matching a post-modern worldview or leaving out “unappealing” or politically incorrect scripture truths. We don’t need to be “all that and a bag of chips.” But, are we aware of what’s going on in our world? Do we know anything about unchurched people?

The Unchurched Next Door

To answer this question, I revisited Thom Rainer’s book, The Unchurched Next Door. Rainer and his team of researchers interviewed hundreds of people throughout the United States who were not actively attending church. The book was published in 2003 by Zondervan.

Listen to these statements:

As strange as it may seem to churchgoing Christians, the church intimidates unchurched people. They do not think they can fit in at a place they have never attended (p.24).

Perhaps the evangelistic apathy so evident in many of our churches can be explained by a simple laziness on the part of church members in inviting others to church (p.25).

We Christians have become disobedient and lazy. Investing our lives in the lives of lost and unchurched people is inconvenient and messy.

(According to the interviews), Most of the unchurched would welcome an invitation to church.

The sad reality we discovered in our study was that very few of the unchurched population have heard about Christ from a layperson. Yetthe unchurched as a rule would like to talk to someone other than clergy about religious matters. The silence of Christians may be one of the greatest tragedies in the church today.

…the world of the unchurched is not a world of fire-breathing pagans.

The vast majority of the unchurched would gladly come to your church if you invited them and walked with them into the church building.

A number of Christians just seem to be rude and insensitive. They may be small in number, but their voices are heard loudly. We wonder how many unchurched have been hindered from the kingdom because of the insensitivity and even stupidity of some
Christians.

Over 91 percent of the formerly unchurched said that doctrine was important, the highest ranking of all issues.

Times of crisis are significant opportunities for you to reach out to those who do not have a saving relationship with Jesus Christ.

I have seen a few churches where one member with zeal to reach the lost and the unchurched has changed the direction of the entire church.

Am I "With it?"

After his resurrection, Jesus gave what we call the Great Commission, which is recorded in Matthew 28:18-20.

18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen (Matthew 28:18-20).

As I read the Great Commission today, I pray that God will grant me a Spiritual “withitness” to engage the people in my community in order for them to become followers of Jesus.

That's My Boy!

Yesterday, our George/Greene Association and the Mississippi Baptist Convention sponsored a Family Celebration at Antioch Baptist Church. While most of Mississippi experienced snow flurries on Friday, we had a beautiful, but chilly day on Saturday.

Adrian Strickland from Eternal Challenge brought his Rock Climbing Wall. Adrian is the Assistant Baptist Student Union Director at William Carey College in Hattiesburg. He was great with the kids. I can wholeheartedly recommend him to you for a ministry event.

My son, Jared, is five years old. I was so proud of him. He made it to the top twice. Way to go, Jare Bear.

Family Celebration this Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM

The George-Greene Baptist Association, in cooperation with the Mississippi Baptist Convention, is hosting a "Family Celebration" at Antioch Baptist Church, which is on High School Road, about 3 miles past Greene Co. High School.

This event is similar to the Community Bock Party we held in Leakesville back in October of last year.

There will be a rock climbing wall, inflatables, free food, and live music. Don't miss this event. This will be a great family event. Churches are encouraged to set up booths. For more info call Jimmy Holcomb at 1-877-947-4981.

Fantasy Sports

For several years, I have enjoyed playing fantasy sports. While fantasy sports have been around a long time, the leagues offered on the internet have made tabulating stats much easier. So, I have been involved in leagues in all the major sports.

Playing on the internet is easy. At the beginning of a season, players are drafted. This can be done by the computer or the members of the league can set a time to make their selections in real time. Once you have your players, in a head-to-head league like I prefer, you have a week-long game with an opponent. Opposing managers/coaches choose the players who will start on a given day based on the real sports calendar. Then, at the end of the week stats in various categories are tallied and the number of “wins” in a category for the year determines the standings and playoff seedings. (Are you bored yet?). In the playoffs teams go head to head.

Fantasy Football is the hardest for me. However, I have won championships on Yahoo! in Hockey and Basketball.

This year my BulldogBiteECHL Fantasy Hockey Team is in first place with one week to go until playoffs. I am ahead by 21 points. So, I have secured a first round bye. My BulldogBiteCBA Basketball Team is in second place with about three weeks to go until playoffs.

Fleeting Fantasies

According to Biblegateway.com, the only time the word “fantasy” is used in the New King James Version is recorded in Proverbs 21:6.

Getting treasures by a lying tongue

Is the fleeting fantasy of those who seek death.


In other words, a person is living in a fantasy world if they thing they can lie their way to wealth. When a person makes lying their standard procedure, they are trapped by deadly sin.

My wife and I have talked a lot lately about our many years in youth ministry. My wife served as a student minister before we married. I ministered with youth in churches in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alaska. In every church we served, we had to deal with teens that lied to us. Many times the lies were subtle, but we have been told some whoppers.

Since I am an equal opportunity offender, adults lie as often as teens. So, this leads me to ask, “Why do people lie?”

Terri did some “research” into the contributing factors for lying and discovered the number one reason people don’t tell the truth is that they are afraid. They have a fear of the truth being discovered. Liars are hiding something and they fear being unmasked. Also, they fear they will not be accepted if their truth self is exposed.

As a result, we must examine the fears we have. The bottom line is we all have short comings. So, we need to embrace them, because Paul wrote that through his weaknesses the strength of God was revealed. Also, we need to understand that God designed his kingdom for people who are poor in spirit, for people who mourn, for people who hunger and thirst for righteousness (Matt. 5:3-10).

What is your greatest fear? What sin causes you discomfort due to the fear of it being discovered? Remember, if you think you can hide your sin by lying; remember that is a fleeting fantasy. Crime never pays and neither does lying.

"Soft" on Judas

Yesterday was an absolute gorgeous day in Greene County, MS. Our attendance was down in comparison to last week, which was the best attended Sunday since I began as pastor here just over 2 years ago.

The children sang in the morning service and we had special guests play brass duets (trumpet and trombone). They did a great job. My son Jared was enthralled.

My sermon was a biographical message based on the life of Judas. While I know I was true to the scripture text in examining his life, I always seek to preach the truths from the Bible with the idea of God's grace in mind.

The life of Judas is tragic. He was with Jesus when Christ performed miracle after miracle. He heard Him teach about the Kingdom of God, but the expectations of Judas were different from the purpose of Jesus. Obviously, he wanted to profit from his association with Christ. Also, he must have had political aspirations, which he realized Jesus would never help him to achieve.

His betrayal of Christ was horrible, disgusting, and pathetic. However, if he had sought forgiveness from Jesus, instead of the religious leaders, he could have been in a right relationship with God. However, his betrayal, unlike the denials of Peter, were not forgiven. Without a God intervention, guilt becomes unbearable.

Yesterday, as folks were ritually shaking my hands as they exited the sanctuary, one man said, "Preacher, I wish I could be as soft on Judas as you were today."

While I don't think I was "soft" on him, I must admit it saddens me to see a life like that of Judas that is wasted when there were so many opportunities available to him to make a positive impact upon the world. Judas could have a difference, but instead he chose to betray the very person he could have blessed him beyond measure.

If "soft" refers to grieving folks who die to enter eternity separated from God, I plead guilty.

Jesus said, "While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name. Those whom You gave Me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled (John 17:12)."

When I was in Alaska, a promising college graduate named Chris McCandless journeyed to the "Last Frontier" and camped in the wilderness in the Denali National Park. He hiked into the wilderness in April 1992. He crossed a river that was low since the snow and ice of winter were just beginning to thaw. After several mishaps, he began to near starvation. So, he decided to hike out of the park, but, when he reached the river, the water was too treacherous to cross due to the melted snow. He lost all hope. He returned to his temporary shelter and died of hunger.

After he was discovered and pictures he had taken were developed, folks discovered he had killed a moose and other wildlife, which he did not know how to preserve or cook. He had eaten some berries, which suppressed his appetite and produced prolonged intestinal problems. He had made several mistakes. However, the biggest mistake was to refuse a map that he was offered before he began his journey into the wild.

If Chris McCandless had looked at a map, he would have realized that from the point of his original crossing of the river a hand drawn ferry was only a quarter of a mile to the south. He was only a short walk from hope.

Judas lived the last years of his life in the shadow of Jesus. He was an armlengths away, really a prayer away, from the epitome of hope. However, he died hopeless.

What a waste. What a lost. I pray stories of human tragedy always soften me.

Read more about Chris McCandless by clicking here.

Normal Cultural Christianity

Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him.” --Hebrews 10:38

Are you normal or weird? Do you fit in, or are you just a little strange?

In the past a minority of people dressed in strange clothes and sported unique hairdos and persuaded an entire culture to copy them? Culturally, some societies have made uniformity a desirable quality, while in America many people applaud individualism which contradicts the norm.

Are you a normal Christian? Spiritually, we must look to the Bible to define normalcy. The scriptures paint the normal life of the believer as one which conforms to the way God designed a relationship with Him to work.

Jerry Bridges has said: “Many Christians have what we might call a ‘cultural holiness.’ They adapt to the character and behavior pattern of Christians around them. As the Christian culture around them is more or less holy, so these Christians are more or less holy. But God has not called us to be like those around us. He has called us to be like himself. Holiness is nothing less than conformity to the character of God.”

On the same issue, John Ortberg has said, “The decision to grow always involves a choice between risk and comfort. This means that to be a follower of Jesus you must renounce comfort as the ultimate value of your life.” I am so glad Jesus did not choose comfort over the cross

C. H. Mackintosh said, “(Faith) glorifies God exceedingly, because it proves that we have more confidence in His eyesight than in our own.”

Rate Yourself

On a scale of 1 to 10, where would you rate your commitment to Jesus? With “1” being no commitment or desire to have a relationship with Jesus and “10” being representative of a completely sold out believer, where would you rate yourself?

I remember being in a Youth Retreat a few years ago and the speaker asked a question similar to the previous one. A chaperone spoke for the group. He spoke with pride and said something like, “Well, I think the students in our group are right in the middle. They are committed to a point, but they are not too committed.”

In response, the speaker pointed everyone to Romans 3:16. In this passage, Jesus sent a message to one of the early churches. He said, “So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.” Average commitment or “Casual Christianity” that matches the cultural norm makes God sick.

Today, dedicate yourself to being holy and not just normal.

Entering the Sanctuary of God

Last Night, I continued preaching the Revival Services for Unity Baptist Church. My sermon was based on Psalm 73, which has been my favorite Psalm for years.

The psalm was written by Asaph, a musician. He was uncomfortably transparent in this psalm as he gave deep insight into a struggle he had accepting the prosperity of people who were not faithful to God. Follow his turmoil as he stated his conclusion and, then, chronicled how he struggled to come to that confidence.

Conclusion

1 Truly God is good to Israel, To such as are pure in heart.

Conflict

2But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled; My steps had nearly slipped. 3For I was envious of the boastful, When I saw the prosperity of the wicked.

Contradiction: The Prosperity of the Wicked Troubled Him.

4For there are no pangs in their death, But their strength is firm. 5They are not in trouble as other men, Nor are they plagued like other men. 6Therefore pride serves as their necklace; Violence covers them like a garment. 7Their eyes bulge with abundance; They have more than heart could wish. 8They scoff and speak wickedly concerning oppression; They speak loftily. 9They set their mouth against the heavens, And their tongue walks through the earth.

Celebrities: He Resented the Popularity of Evil Doers

10Therefore his people return here, And waters of a full cup are drained by them. 11And they say, "How does God know? And is there knowledge in the Most High?" 12Behold, these are the ungodly, Who are always at ease; They increase in riches.

Comparison: He Began to Regret His Faithfulness to God

13Surely I have cleansed my heart in vain, And washed my hands in innocence. 14For all day long I have been plagued, And chastened every morning.

Caution: He Realized How Damaging His Speech Could Be

15If I had said, "I will speak thus," Behold, I would have been untrue to the generation of Your children.

Clarification: He Realized God Had the Answer to His Turmoil

16When I thought how to understand this, It was too painful for me-- 17Until I went into the sanctuary of God; Then I understood their end.

***NOTE: When he took time to get alone with God and seek answers for his questions, he was comforted.

Comprehension: Worship Changed His Perspective

18Surely You set them in slippery places; You cast them down to destruction. 19Oh, how they are brought to desolation, as in a moment! They are utterly consumed with terrors. 20As a dream when one awakes, So, Lord, when You awake, You shall despise their image.


Conviction: He Was Convicted of His Sin

21Thus my heart was grieved, And I was vexed in my mind. 22I was so foolish and ignorant; I was like a beast before You.

Confidence: He recognized the Divine Guidance of God

23Nevertheless I am continually with You; You hold me by my right hand. 24You will guide me with Your counsel, And afterward receive me to glory. 25Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You. 26My flesh and my heart fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Concern: He Had Compassion for Those He Had Envied

27For indeed, those who are far from You shall perish; You have destroyed all those who desert You for harlotry.

Commitment

28But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, That I may declare all Your works.

Whenever life does not make sense, enter the sanctuary of God. I am not talking about just going to a church building. Get alone with God. He will meet you there. Read the scriptures and He will help you put things into perspective.

Truly God is good to Israel, To such as are pure in heart.

Our Greatest Need

Some have said our greatest need is understanding. We just need to know someone cares. All we need is someone to hold our hands during the storms of life. We just need someone to listen to us. This is certainly important and Jesus does love us. However, we needed someone who could do more than just feel our pain. If all we needed was someone to listen to us and to show us love, God would have sent a psychological therapist or skilled grief counselor.

Oswald Chambers said, “Very few of us have any understanding of the reason why Jesus Christ died. If sympathy is all that human beings need, then the Cross of Christ is an absurdity and there is absolutely no need for it. What the world needs is not "a little bit of love," but major surgery (My Utmost-Dec. 20).

Our greatest need was forgiveness, so God sent us a Savior. From the day he was born, Jesus lived under the shadow of a cross. He was born to die. You see, the Bible says “For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).” Our sin puts us in a awful position, because Romans 6:23 says “For the wages of sin is death,…” Our sins had to be punished. However, the Bible says, “…the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” So, God sent us a Savior. The manger where Jesus lay was filled with God’s grace. He didn’t have to provide a way for us to fulfill our greatest need, but he did.

Living by Faith

Last year I led our church through the book By Faith: Living in the Certainty of God’s Reality by John Franklin and Lonnie Riley.

In the life of Paul, you can see a process of faith development.

I. God Initiates: God initiates a faith relationship.

Jesus radically intersected the life of Paul on the Damascus Road (Acts 9:1-9 ).

II. God Relates: God develops fellowship for a consistent walk of faith.

Paul spent 3 years in Arabia growing in his faith. His first missionary journey was possibly 14 years after his conversion (Gal. 1:17-18).

III. God Shows: God requires a faith response to the unveiling of His will.

II Chronicles 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.

God wanted to reach gentiles. So, he worked through visions to Peter. He worked with Barnabas. Paul responded to an invitation to spend time with Barnabas. Paul and Barnabas went on their first Missionary Journey (Acts 13:1-3).

IV. God Grows: God matures faith through waiting.

Paul’s first missionary journey was 14 years after conversion.
Noah waited perhaps 120 years before the flood.
Abraham waited 25 years before Sarah bore Isaac.
Moses saw 40 years pass before his people were delivered.
David was anointed king, but had to wait many years before taking the throne.

V. God Bestows: God rewards completed faith.

Paul was used by God.

II Timothy 4:7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Where are you in your walk of faith?
Has God radically intersected your life through circumstances to get your attention?
Are you spending time with God in order to develop a deeper fellowship with Him?
Is there a "faith response" God is waiting to have from you?
Can you see spiritual growth in your life? Are you closer to God than you were at this time last year?

God will bless a consistent life of faith. My prayer is that you will begin a more intentional walk of faith today.

Revival at Unity Baptist

Today, I began as the preacher for Revival Services at Unity Baptist Church here in Greene County. The folks were responsive. Neil Wigley, Worship Pastor at Agricola Baptist, is leading the music. He did a great job. This morning, he sang a solo entitled "The Sparrow" that was worshipful for me.

Randy "Bubba" Pierce is the pastor at Unity. Bubba is a Chancery Court Judge and has announced he will run for the Mississippi Supreme Court. He is a dedicated bivocational pastor, who has led his church to do some great things. He is a true servant leader. I'm enjoying spending time with him.

Evening Services begin at 7:00 PM on Monday through Wedensday.

Happy 90th Birthday Grandmother!

Today my grandmother is 90 years old. She lives with my uncle. She is in good health and still has a sharp mind--much better than mine.

Yesterday, we had a birthday party for her. Several friends and family members came to my parents' house for the celebration. At the end of the festivities, she gave a speech, concluding with "I thank my Savior and Lord Jesus Christ for allowing me to live to be 90 years old."

Prayer Requests from Baltimore

Below is a "prayer-gram" from the Pastor of the Church on Warren Avenue in Baltimore:

Dear Friends:
We want to welcome the George/Greene Baptist Association and their Director of, Rev. Jimmy Holcomb, as a member of Warren Avenue’s Prayer Warriors. This two country association is made up of 33 churches who will be praying for us as we seek to accomplish God’s goals for us. Also we welcome Rev. Bob Mackey, Director of Missions of the Baltimore Association.

Bob’s responsibility as our DOM is awesome and I ask everyone to pray for Bob and especially his wife as they, together, engage in Kingdom work in our association for all of our churches, and for Bob, especially, as he leads our association into the future. Likewise, please pray constantly for Bro. Jimmy Holcomb as he leads the George/Greene Association and its churches as they engage their communities and partner with us here.

Please pray specifically for the following:

(1) We are submitting a late application for a Strengthening Churches Grant to assist our beginning our Fine Arts ministry in the Fall of this year. Please pray (a) for our church family as we go forward with this ministry, (b) for Dawson Hull and those others who are coming alongside to make this ministry possible, (c) that the grant will receive favorable consideration.
(2) For The Vine, our Thursday night casual worship.
(3) For our leadership as we prepare the prospectus for submission to secure a church planter at Warren Avenue.
(4) For Sharon Pendergrass and our partnership with Baptist Family & Children Services-A caseworker is now on site weekly at Warren Avenue as part of our community impact ministries. Pray as this ministry engages community residents of all ages and from across the socio-economic spectrum at their points of need.
(5) For Pastor Lyn as he leaves next week to attend the Global Impact Conference in Houston, TX, and shares the Warren Avenue story.
(6) For our Minister of Worship Dawson Hull as he leads our efforts at The Vine.
(7) For artist and composer Cameron Warne as he continues to serve as a leader of The Vine and as we work to bring him on staff.
(8) For mission teams from Charleston Southern University at Charleston, SC; from the University of Southern Mississippi and from The Bridge at Miami University in Ohio, along with the Youth Mission Team from First Baptist Church; Perryville, Maryland, as they work with us to “Engage” our community during March.
(9) For ‘Saturday at the Movies” at the Recreation Center on Saturday, March 8th and follow-up at the church on Sunday night, March 9th with “Celebrate”. Pray that we will be able to get into the community with information, that the weather will be agreeable and that lives will be touched and impacted with the gospel.
(10)That God will raise up the resources we need thru the Forward Fund and other opportunities so that we will be able to implement our communities and engage them effectively. Pray that God opens hearts, pocket books and other resources to help us-we have a huge challenge but it can be overcome and our goal achieved.
(11)That God will put a hedge of protection about us as a church and as a church family as we seek to achieve for Him.
(12) That He will lead to us May-mester missionaries and other volunteers with a heart for the city to come alongside and allow us to move forward boldly for Him.
(13)For our Forward Focus 2008 strategy (a copy of which will be posted on this blog in the future).
(14)For the churches in our association and within Embrace Baltimore as we move to engage the City.
(15)For administrative and secretarial support for Pastor Lyn and Warren Avenue; which is badly needed.
(16)For each other.

Lyn O'Berry, Pastor

THE CHURCH ON WARREN AVENUE AT FEDERAL HILL

" A Family of Friends"

113 Warren Avenue; Baltimore, Maryland 21230

When Opportunity Knocks

But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity.—Philippians 4:10

Paul had refused to accept monetary support from the Corinthian church, because he did not want to be seen as profiting from preaching. However, he did write, “Even so the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel.” Paul believed ministers who devote themselves to ministry are worthy of support.

The Philippian church helped Paul financially when he was in need. Paul stated that he knew that they cared for him, but they had not had an opportunity until that time. So, when the opportunity arose, the Christians at Philippi gave to help Paul.

Are there opportunities for you to give today? Of course, we are bombarded with request for donations almost constantly, but are some of these are “one time” opportunities to express our gratitude to God that he wants us to meet.

God is Faithful

During my meeting with Pastor Lyn O’Berry and Ray Hoffman on Wednesday, they shared how God had miraculously provided for The Church on Warren Avenue at Federal Hill. The Baltimore Congregation is an older congregation which is literally creating a new church within the existing church.

Since the church in is an area in which property values and taxes are staggering, the church does not want to surrender any of the three row houses they own next to the church. If they were to sell the properties, they could find themselves without the ability to expand and/or house mission teams, as well as future ministerial staff.

Pastor O’Berry said, “We shouldn’t be able to do what we are doing.” Whenever we have a need, the money is provided. He cited incident after incident of a need arising and, then, God worked through an individual, a church, a Baptist Association, and even non-church members in the community to give exactly what was required.

Your Opportunities

So, are there opportunities that have appeared for you to support the work of the Kingdom of God? Not all needs are financial. Just look around your community and church and take note of the volunteer opportunities you could fulfill. By volunteering to do serve, you can make a difference.

Today, look for opportunities to make a difference out of the spotlight. Do something anonymously, but lovingly for the cause of Christ. Be a giver.

Yesterday in Baltimore

My last day in Baltimore was productive. Around 8:00 AM (EST), I carried Jimmy Holcomb to the airport. He had a Baptist Student Union meeting on the coast last night. So, he had to leave early.

I met with Lyn O’Berry, pastor of The Church on Warren Avenue, for several hours. We examined the logistics and schedule for our mission trip to Baltimore, July 7-11, 2008. Ray Hoffman, the Chairman of the Deacons at the church, participated in the meeting.

The Church on Warren Avenue consisted of about 30 Senior Adults when Lyn O’Berry became interim pastor. After extensive meetings with church strategists and an “Intervention Team,” the opinion of many folks was the church should disband. However, the membership did not want to sacrifice their witness in such a strategic area of Baltimore.

Since the church is located less than a block from Federal Hill, which overlooks the inner harbor of Baltimore, the community has seen a major renewal. The row houses around the church are soaring in value. However, only a short walking distance away, federal housing projects house many families who are struggling with the impact of drugs and violence.

Unfortunately, the church did not have a recognizable presence in the area. So, one of the first things Pastor O’Berry did was to demonstrate to their “neighbors” that they cared about the community.

They established strong relations with the city by utilizing mission teams to clean parks and provide recreational activities for children at those parks. They operate booths at all of the community festivals. During the Baltimore Marathon in October 2007, the church rolled a piano onto the sidewalk and set up a water station. As 14,000 runners passed the church, after completing the Mile #7, the Minister of Music played Ragtime and Classical Music. The neighborhood all gathered and helped the distribute water and pick up the thousands of paper cups dropped on the street. As a result, one day the church set up a grill and gave away food.

During initial surveys, some people voiced resistance to the church ministering on the street. However, people are now encouraging the church to get “on the street.”

Other ways the church has connected to the community is 1) providing discount coupons for a local bagel shop, 2) hosting a Date Night by providing childcare for young couples, 3) the free Baseball Camps we offered, and 4) a contemporary worship service on Thursday nights called “The Vine.”

Bro. Lyn talks constantly about his vision for the church. He has so many ideas that I was blown away and even suffered from a headache. For example, one "out of the box" idea was to have cardboard drink coasters printed with the church's name and info. Then, distribute the coasters to local restaurants and taverns.

I had to leave late in the afternoon. I left excited about what can happen this Summer, but I was convinced our church needs to do more in our community to show people we care.

Sad in Baltimore

A Sad Day

Yesterday, Jimmy Holcomb and I arrived boarded a plane in Jackson, MS to fly, “non-stop,” to Baltimore. After exiting the plane, I received an emergency message to call home. Unfortunately, the organist at our church found one of her sons dead in his bedroom. This is devastating for anyone.

While I regretted not being there for her, I was blessed to know many of the members of our church, including my wonderful wife, were surrounding the grieving family with love. Boo White, the Minister of Youth at our church, called me last night and shared what he had been doing to support the family. Mike Smith, our Minister of Music, visited the family last night. I am blessed with a caring church.

I return to Mississippi tonight.

Baltimore Missions Trip Prep

Here In Baltimore, we are having preparatory meetings for our mission trip to this city in July. Last year, fifteen men offered Christian Baseball Camps to kids in Baltimore and Catonsville.
Lyn O’Berry is the pastor of The Church on Warren Avenue, which is in the Federal Hill District near Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The church is comprised of elderly folks and they have decided to take some aggressive steps to be influential in the community. Pastor O’Berry is very passionate about his ministry and has some incredibly innovative and creative ideas. Bro. Jimmy and I were overwhelmed by all the info he shared with us.

Bob Mackey is the Director of Missions for the Baltimore Area. We met with him yesterday. He is passionate about reaching the city for Christ. Also, he was able to give some great tips for organizing and performing a mission trip. Currently, Bob and his wife are living in a one-room apartment. His daughter is enrolled in Union University, which was devastated by a tornado last week. So, she is home with them now. I admire his commitment.

Trouble "Lite"

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.--2 Corinthians 4:17

The word "Lite" depicts something that is simple, practical, or improved. Commonly, marketers have attached the word LITE to products that are more economincal, less fattening, or easier to use. This is seen in various lines of diet foods; such as, yogurt, snacks, and various cold beverages. Also, Nintendo released a DS Lite, which is a slimmer, brighter, and more lightweight redesign of their gaming system. Closely related to this, computer companies offer "Lite versions," which are basic, no-frill offerings of software.

Of course, "Lite" is a creative misspelling of 'light," which, in reference to weight, refers to something that is not heavy. So, for Paul to refer to his afflictions as "light" seems as a mega-understatement. Just read II Corinthians 11:22-33 for a list of all Paul suffered as he preached the Gospel.

Paul was a spiritual giant. However, in his letters he frequently referred to his weaknesses. Once he said, "When I am weak, then, I am strong." He trusted in the strength of God, which was manifested in Jesus Christ."

The key to Paul's spiritual strength was faith in God, which led him to have a divine perspective on his circumstances. Just before his reference to his "light affliction," he wrote, "Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day." Paul did not focus on the external, but he took note of the internal strength God faithfully provided.

So, Paul discounted the external, valued the internal, and hoped for the eternal.

I'm not there yet, but I pray that today I will focus more on what is not seen than what is seen.

I Love My Wife

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.--Ephesians 5:25

On Valentine’s Day, love is pretty, red, and sweet. Obviously, everybody is in love. Just look around. Love is in the air and, if you haven’t bought your “sweetie” something by now, shame on you. Trouble is your destiny.

Admittedly, I’m not as romantic as I used to be, but I am much deeper in love than I have ever been.

Exactly 17 years ago today, Terri and I boarded a plane in Baton Rouge, LA and headed North to Anchorage, AK. Now, that’s romantic.

The Gulf War was in full-swing. So, airport security was tighter than usual. We were told to be at the airport early and we were. We showed up so early that no one else was there. Security was so intense that Terri and I flew under assumed names, “Kevin” and “Rhonda,” without a problem. We needed cheap tickets. So, when we found an ad in a newspaper selling two one-way tickets to Alaska, we met the real Kevin and Rhonda in a hotel parking lot in McComb, MS to buy the tics from them. You couldn’t do that today. We shouldn’t have done it then.

Our Valentine's Day move to Alaska came only six weeks after being married and barely nine months after having met. On our honeymoon, we spent several days in Anchorage being interviewed by a church and pastor. The first Sunday of 1991, the church, Raspberry Road Baptist Church, voted to call me as Minister of Music and Youth. We accepted the call that day.

There were some many unknowns as we neared our new home. That first night, we fully expected to sleep on the floor, because we had reserved an unfurnished apartment. However, when we arrived, the apartment was fully furnished. The manager had taken unclaimed furniture out of storage and gave it to us, since she knew we were just starting out. God provided then and he continues to provide now.

Our time on the “Last Great Frontier” was one extended honeymoon. We were in Alaska for three and one-half years. Our daughter Abbey was born almost three years after we moved up there. We did so much together amidst the prettiest scenery in the world. We rafted down a river in the shadow of Mount McKinley. We rode the Midnight Express Train from Anchorage to Denali National Park on the glass domed rail cars. We took the Twenty-Six Glacier tour out of Whittier, AK. We flew to the end of the world to see the start of the Alaska Pipeline, literally standing under the mile “0” marker.

Since we had not dated that much before marrying, we made up for lost time. I knew that God put us together, but I did not know how much more I could love her. That’s still true today.
As a pastor, I stay away from home more than I like. With three kids, ages 14, 5, and 3, we don’t have a lot of time together. However, each day I realize Terri is perfect for me. She prays for me and encourages me. She makes me laugh. She loves me. Each year I love her more and more. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for us.

Paul charged husbands with a mega-task in Eph. 5:25. He wrote, “Dude, you better get the focus off of you and pour your life into that gal and love her with God’s kind of love just like Jesus did for His church (My paraphrase).” Just a reminder, he died for the church. That kind of love is not represented by roses, chocolate covered cherries, or intimate sleepwear. That kind of love is represented by a cross. I haven’t made it yet, but I’m trying.

I love my wife.

Valentines Day Gift Ideas

Top Ten Things NOT to Get Your Wife on Valentines Day

10. A Red Broom

9. A Years Subscription to Sports Illustrated

8. Lava Soap

7. A Card that Says, "I told you I loved you when we married. 'Nuff Said."

6. A Sleeve of Smokeless Tobacco

5. An Autographed Copy of "Cooking for Dummies"

4. Chocolate Covered Green Tomotoes

3. The CD "Bob Dylan Sings Sinatra"

2. An All Expense Trip to Slate Springs, MS

The Number One Thing NOT to Get Your Wife for Valentines Day

1. NOTHING!! So, you better get busy.

Come On Get Happy and the Stained Glass Masquerade

A few moments ago, I noticed that one of the top five "searches" on Yahoo was for "David Cassidy."

David Cassidy was a member of the Partridge Family, who had an immesnsely popular show. As a child of the 70's, I spent many nights watching The Brady Bunch and the Partridge Family. The only song I remember the "Family" sang was "Come On Get Happy."

As I was thinking about that song, I realized I have an aversion to someone saying to me, "Come on be happy."

This isn't a vent againt The Partridge Family, but a quick way for someone to "turn me 'off'" is to tell me "be happy." People don't know what is going on inside of us. So, for me, I do not want to ever presume someone has the capacity to be "cheerful," when their world is crumbling down around them.

Now, I know, as a Christian, we have a bright future, but forcing a smile is superficial. One of my pet peeves is when a worship leader says, "Come on everybody, smile." In worship, we are confronted with a Holy God, which reveals our unholiness. If I'm under conviction, the last thing I need to do is to fake a "I've-got-it-all-together" pose. Casting Crowns calls this the "Stained Glass Masquerade." Read the lyrics here. Watch a Stained Glass Masquerade Video here.

Let's be real in church and on the street.

Not sure how I moved from the Partridge Family to being real, but I did. What do you think?

The Ministry of Presence

Yesterday afternoon, during a severe thunderstorm, a friend called from an Emergency Room in Hattiesburg. He needed some help in contacting someone. His mother, who has battled Alzheimer’s disease for several years, was transferred from a nursing home to the ER. I asked, “How is she doing?” He said, “She is dying.”

I made the contact requested. Then, I shared the situation with my wife and got in the car to go be with my friend. Fortunately, the weather was not as bad as the yellow and red radar images on Weather.com had indicated. So, I made it to the hospital with no problem.

Walking into the ER, my friend was surprised. His first response was “You didn’t have to come.” All I could say was “I wanted to let you know I was thinking about you. I am praying for you.” After learning that his mother had improved slightly, I had a prayer for her and with him.

For me, I could not stand the thought of my friend being alone. I am glad I went.

While in Clinical Pastoral Education in New Orleans, I was first exposed to the term “Ministry of Presence.” Simply, just being a compassionate presence for a person in crisis is real ministry. We all feel pressure to say something when we are in contact with a distraught person, but, many times, nothing can be said that is of great comfort. Of course, we remind them that God is present. God cares. Yet, just “being there” is a real comfort.

Casting Crowns has a song that reminds me of the proper response to troubled individuals:

Just love them like Jesus, carry them to Him
His yoke is easy, His burden is light
You don’t need the answers to all of life’s questions
Just know that He loves them and stay by their side
Love them like Jesus
Love them like Jesus

I pray that my presence as a minister reminds hurting people that God is present. That’s all I bring.

In the latter part of Hebrews 13:5, the writer stated, "For He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'” What a great truth. However, the context of the verse is important. The words prior to this great promise are “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have.”

We have to rest in the knowledge that as Christians that Jesus will not leave us. Possessions can be blown out to sea. Money can be lost overnight. However, Jesus will not leave.

As John wrote in I John 3:18, “...let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.”

Be the presence of Christ today.