Brian Ross

Unorthodox, Week 2

2011-03-23T15:43:00.003-05:00

UNORTHODOX, week 2

Baptism/Communion

We believe and practice two ordinances—(1) Water Baptism by Immersion after repenting of one's sins and receiving Christ's gift of salvation, and (2) Holy Communion (the Lord's Supper) as a symbolic remembrance of Christ's suffering and death for our salvation.

Ordinances are outward rites or symbolic observances commanded by Jesus. It is an outward sign of an inward work, or a visible sign of an invisible work of grace.

Ordinance #1

Baptism: (Baptizo) means to completely submerge or immerse.

2 Cor. 2:15

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

What you need to know about baptism...

1. Jesus did it- Mt. 3:13-17

2. Peter declared it- Acts 2:38,41

3. Early Church in the Bible followed it- Acts 8:12, 36-38; 9:18; 10:47

4. Taught in the New Testament Letters- Rom. 6:3; 1 Cor. 10:2;

Gal. 3:27

Baptism…

1. Required in Scripture- Mk. 16:16; Ro. 6:3

2. Represents dying to self and being raised to newness of life- Ro. 6:4

3. Reveals that we have been united with Christ- Ro. 6:5,6

4. Requests a life-long commitment- Ro. 6:5-8

Ordinance #2

The second ordinance is Holy Communion or also called the Lord’s Supper. The first observance of Communion took place on another religious holiday- the Jewish feast of Passover. The Passover meal included telling the story of the Passover, the event that took place under Moses’ leadership while in Egypt.

The Israelites were to place the blood of a spotless lamb on the doorposts of their doors. So when the angel of death came that night, he would by-pass family. The blood represented a covering. Jesus was celebrating this with his disciples giving them a foretaste of what would happen. He would shed His blood as a covering for our sins. Communion is a memorial of His atoning death.

Below are selected passages used in our last service...

The Bible says “when evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the Twelve” (Mt. 26:20). Then Jesus says, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the Kingdom of God” (Lk. 22:15,16).

He then begins to predict His betrayal by saying, “I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill this passage of Scripture, ‘He who shared my bread has turned against me” (Jn. 13:18). “Very truly I tell you, one of you is going to betray me” (Jn. 13:21).

The Disciples stare at one another for a while, then Peter motions to John to come closer saying, ‘Ask him which one he means’” (Jn. 13:24). John leans over to Jesus and says, “Lord, who is it? Jesus answered, “It is the one to whom I will give this piece of bread…dipping the piece of bread, he gave it to Judas” (Jn. 13:25,26).

Then Jesus took the bread, lifted it up, gave thanks and broke it and gave it to the disciples. “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me” (Lk. 22:19)."

“Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. 28 This is my blood of a new covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”

2010-09-23T12:32:00.003-05:00

Anyone who knows me at all, can tell you how much I love this country. I think America is the best nation on the planet. I love our history. I especially love the ideals and principles upon which our great nation was founded upon.

The belief that "all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness" still rings true in my heart and spirit.

Our National Anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner, still moves me every time I hear it or sing it aloud. The less familiar last verse says in part,

"Blest with vict'ry and peace, may the heav'n-rescued land

Praise the Power that has made and preserved us as a nation.

Then conquer we must, when our cause is just,

And this be our motto: "In God is our trust";

And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave."

What's happening to our country? Our national values are being watered down by people who seemingly don't know the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution or our godly history; taking our freedoms with it. How can we sit idly by and watch these foundational virtues be destroyed?

There is still hope for America! As Christians we are called to action by God through His holy word. In 2 Chronicles 7:14 is says, "if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." As believers, we are called upon to...

1. Humble our selves before the Lord

2. Pray

3. Seek God's Face

4. Repent of our sins (individually and collectively)

Scripture reminds us that, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people" (Pro. 14:34).

What can you do? Join with hundreds of thousands of others by being involved over the next thirty or so by praying and fasting for this great land of ours. Go to www.prayandact.org.

We are praying specifically in three areas:

• Sanctity of life
• Sacredness of marriage
• Preservation of religious liberty

It's time to act. It's time to call upon the Lord. It's time to restore America's future and hope.

Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Pastor Brian

2010-09-20T14:36:00.002-05:00

"Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my HOPE is in you all day long."
Psalm 25:5

How does one possess a hope that last all day long? Many times we are challenged to hold on to hope for even an hour depending on the circumstances. There is one way to having and maintaining hope that last through out the day.

1. Position yourself to find hope- The best position is always on your knees. Recognizing that God is our source of comfort, strength and hope; you take your rightful and meek position under His care and watchful eye. By reaching the conclusion you need Him and turning to Him; you are now in a place to receive His grace and wisdom. This verse starts with the word "guide." It's an obvious prayer asking for God's help. To be hopeful, we all need God's help.

2. Purpose to know the truth- In this verse David is asking to be led in the truth. He was an intelligent man and a quite capable leader; however, he was also keening aware of man's own selfish desires and heart. So instead of relying on his own wisdom, he asks God to guide him in truth. We shouldn't trust in our own understanding, but "in all our ways acknowledge him and he will make our paths straight." He is the God of truth.

3. Patiently wait to be taught- The Lord imparts wisdom to those who wait patiently before Him. There is a wisdom of this world, but it is lacking compared to the ways of God. God reminds us of this in Isaiah 55:8, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD." If we learn God's ways and do things His way, there is always hope.

If you do these three things, you will find yourself on the roadway to hope that last all day and everyday.

My Way

2010-06-03T15:17:00.002-05:00

Frank Sinatra use to sing, "I did it my way" to the applause of thousands. And who doesn't like doing things when and how you want to do them. The problem with this kind of thinking is that we are sinful people, and our way leads to separation from God.

Mankind is sinful and often wicked. And even when we come to this conclusion personally; we want reconciliation with God on our own terms. The story of the Tower of Babel is a great example. Humanity pridefully builds toward heaven in a vain attempt to bring restoration to God. They were attempting to do it their way. And this is man's answer to reconciliation with God.

However, God's answer is much different. Instead of man moving toward heaven, heaven came down to man; not once, but twice. The first time was Christ and the second was the promised Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost.

Pentecost did what Babel could not. The Holy Spirit brought reconciliation to the irreconcilable. Pentecost brought with it the church, not a building made with human hands. Pentecost brought understanding of languages, Babel brought confusion of language. Pentecost

united the nations, but Babel divided them.

I encourage you to search your heart thoroughly toady and see if you have been doing life your way or Gods. It could make all the difference in the world.

The Masters

2010-04-11T20:52:00.011-05:00

This has been one of the most memorable weekends in Master's golf history. The course was pristine as it is each year. The weather was very good and provided picturesque images of this major event.

There were two golfers who had a similar story, but completely different outcomes. Both golfers were away from their sport for a number of months because of their wives. Much of the hype surrounding the 2010 Masters Tournament was focused on Tiger Woods' return to golf. His absence from golf is well documented. After his is multiple sexual affairs, he lost many of his sponsors, and it is still to be determined if he will keep his wife and family.

Another golfer missed many of the 2009 season tournaments. After finding out that his wife, Amy, had been diagnosed with breast cancer, Phil Mickelson decided to faithfully stand beside her and give his entire attention to his bride. After winning this year's Master's Championship, he walked over to his wife and they shared an intimate moment for all to see. It wasn't show for the cameras, it was a display of two lives shared. Amy has been there throughout Phil's career by being present at many of his tournaments. When she needed his support, he was there willingly with his presence. Their love for one another is obvious and refreshing given today's culture.

I admittedly have been a Tiger fan from the beginning. He rarely let his fans down when leading going into "red Sunday." And many times when I tried to cheer for Phil, he would find some way to let a lead slip away. And going into this year's Master's Tournament, I was hoping for another miraculous fist pumping win from Tiger. However, after learning of Phil and Amy's story I have can't help but cheer the both of them on. Not only this weekend, but in all of their endeavors. How beautiful it is to see a true champion in every sense of the word.

We might not all be able to compete in the world of professional sports. But we can all be champions in our own right. Being a champion is more about who you are then winning tournaments. Zig Ziglar said, “It was character that got us out of bed, commitment that moved us into action, and discipline that enabled us to follow through.” You can listen here to a message I recently preached called "Commitment Rocks."

?Good Friday?

2010-03-29T12:27:00.003-05:00

Good Friday is coming up later during this Week of Passion. This morning I was prayerfully considering the events that unfolded on that night. What was unlocked that night, or course, carried over through the entire weekend and culminates in the Resurrection.

As I personalized Christ's suffering, I was brought to tears. My Savior and closest friend enduring the cross for my sin is overwhelming. I don't believe I will ever feel worthy enough to receive such an act of true love and forgiveness.

My thoughts turned to those of us who desire deeply to follow Christ. For those of us who sincerely desire and long to be a true believer and disciple of His. For us God seemingly leads us into a place of trial and testing. Our flesh resists these times, but Christ didn't.

These types of places are where we become thoroughly convinced in our heart that we can not accomplish His will in our own strength and intellect. A place that forces us to depend only upon Him. To look at His pierced hands and feet and realize that He is our only way. He is our only strength.

As we focus on the Passion Week, many of us can more easily identify with the crucifixion instead of the resurrection because of the trials we maybe currently encountering. We usually want a quick fix, such as three days (Good Friday till Easter). However, many times we have to endure for a longer period of time, because our flesh isn't so easily crucified.

Romans 6:6

"For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin."

Galatians 2:20

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."

Galatians 5:24

"Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires."

If you are struggling and feeling overwhelmed, turn to the cross. The cross is the centerpiece life and faith. Embrace the cross with all of its splintered afflictions with this one thought, "I am crucifying my flesh, so that Christ can life in me and through me." With this you will be able to echo the feelings of Paul, "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.

¹²Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. ¹³Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, ¹⁴I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

¹⁵All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. ¹⁶Only let us live up to what we have already attained.

¹⁷Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. ¹⁸For, as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. ¹⁹Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things. ²⁰But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, ²¹who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body."

Clanging Cymbal

2010-03-02T21:57:00.003-06:00

When I was in high school I was a percussionist. I wasn't just a drummer, but a percussionist. It wasn't a big deal, the job was mine because I was the only one who could read music. Playing in both the band and orchestra I had the opportunity to play all types of cymbals.

If the cymbals were miss hit or not struck correctly, they made an unpleasant sound. And the sound would stand alone and detract from the pleasant harmony and melodies of a musical score.

But when struck together properly, a crisp and sharp sound would emanate adding the proper emphasis to a note. It's interesting that the same instrument can both destroy a beautiful song, or enhance its beauty.

This must be what Paul meant when he said, "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal." With out true love in our lives we stand alone and take a way from the pleasant sounds of the entire orchestra. We become a "resounding gong or a clanging cymbal." But when we walk in love, we become a part of a full orchestra (the body of Christ) that produces a heavenly sound that attracts people to God.

The music of heaven is only produced through love. Let's make beautiful music together.

True Love Rocks

2010-02-25T14:05:00.002-06:00

We are reading through 1 Corinthians 13 everyday for a month. Every one can join us at www.thirteen-thirty.com.

Today I was drawn to verse six, "rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth." The fact that the word rejoiceth is used twice caught my attention. Love rejoices and celebrates. The word rejoice, by definition means, "to be glad; take delight: to rejoice in another's happiness." It's an action word that requires two people. The focus of that love on the other person.

So, find someone to share some love with today and rejoice with them!

In The Zone, Part 2 "Skittles"

2010-01-24T23:16:00.005-06:00

Today was a truly amazing day at Faith Chapel. The Lord moved among us, and His presence was felt by everyone present. I feel this is a direct result of our hunger and thirst after Him. By beginning the new year with prayer and fasting, we have captured God's attention. Let us continue to seek after Him.

Part two in our "In the Zone" stewardship series is entitled, "Skittles." And everyone present received a package of Skittles. We looked at a man of God who definitely lived in the zone, Elijah (1 Kings 17:1-10;17-24). Here's the outline from today's message.

Elijah's In the Zone Life...

1. Through obedience, there are always resources- 1 Kings 17:2-6

2. There is always an ample supply- 1 Kings 17:6; 13,14

3. It takes faith to live above a poverty mentality- 1 Kings 17:7,8

4 The supply can come from unlikely sources- 1 Kings 17:4

5. When one source dries up, another comes- 1 Kings 17:7

First Things First Principle...

1. The First Day- Gen. 1:28

2. The First Fruits- Josh. 6:17

3. The First Born- Ex. 13:2

4. The First of the Firstfruits- Ex. 23:19; Gen. 4:3; Pro. 3:9,10

First Things First, Tithing...

1. The tithe belongs to God- Mal. 3:8,9

2. The tithe is brought, not given- Mal. 3:10

3. The tithe equals 10% of your earnings and increase-

4. The tithe is brought to the church- Mal. 3:10

5. The tithe allows the church to accomplish its mission- Mal. 3:10

6. The tithe is not only an Old Testament practice-

7. The tithe reveals your heart- Mt. 6:21

Resource: "In the Zone" by Ed Young Jr.

Step to a Successful Fast

2010-01-07T10:53:00.003-06:00

**Read Daniel chapter 1

STEP #1- BE SPECIFIC

Daniel was not vague in his objection to the Babylonian diet. He defined the problem immediately.

1. The king’s food was against dietary laws.

2. Daniel and his friends had vowed against wine.

3. The king’s food had been offered up to idols/demons.

STEP #2 - FAST AS A SPIRITUAL COMMITMENT Dan. 1:8

STEP #3- REFLECT INNER DESIRE BY OUTER DISCIPLINE
Many people have an inner desire for better health, but they can’t discipline themselves to avoid junk food, and other foods that are not good for health. The physical health you seek from God may be more than an answer to prayer. Your physical health may be linked to any of the following factors:

Your food choices
The level of your spiritual commitment as reflected in constant prayer during the fast.
Your time commitment. If you determine to fast for a certain time, keep it. For example, if you determine to fast 10 days, don’t stop on Day 9.
Your testimony commitment. Your fast is a statement of faith to God that you want Him to heal your body. Faith is foundational to the Daniel Fast.

STEP #4- PRAY TO PERCEIVE SIN’S ROLE IN POOR PHYSICAL & SPIRITUAL HEALTH

Read James 5:13-16

• Sin is something related to the cause of sickness.
• Lack of health/healing may be the result of spiritual rebellion.
• Lack of health/healing may be due to sin of wrong intake, i.e. drugs, pornography.
• Repentance is linked to health, according to James.
• Elders have a role in healing both spiritual and physical health.
• Sick people must desire to be well.
• The anointing oil could mean:

1. medicine for healing,
2. symbolic of the Holy Spirit, or
3. it could be baptism

• Prayer alone may not gain healing; faith is the major factor.
• In the Greek, there are several words for “sick”. James uses “kanino”, which not only includes disease, but also means weak or weary.
• Attitude is important. James said, “are there any among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms.”

STEP #5- FAST AS A STATEMENT OF FAITH TO OTHERS Daniel was making a statement of faith when he asked for only vegetables to eat and water to drink, then dared the overseer to compare the appearance of the four sons of Israel with the young men who ate the king’s food.

STEP #6- LEARN THE EFFECTS OF THE FOODS YOU EAT
Why are some foods good for us, and other foods not? What does certain food do to your body? If we really knew, there would likely be some things we would never eat again.

STEP #7- YIELD ALL RESULTS TO GOD
Daniel said, “as you see fit, deal with your servants” (Dan. 1:13).

REMEMBER:

• The Daniel Fast will lead to spiritual insight. “to those four young men God gave knowledge”.

• The Daniel Fast is longer than one day. These young men fasted for ten days.

• The Daniel Fast is a partial fast. They ate, but only vegetables, fruit and water.

• The Daniel Fast requires abstinence from party or junk foods.

• There is no indication that they ever began to eat the king’s food.

Resource- "Fasting For Spiritual Breakthrough: A Guide To Nine Biblical Fasts" by Elmer L. Towns.

The Preparation Continues

2010-01-05T21:46:00.005-06:00

The six a.m. prayer has been refreshing and the Lord is definitely moving in my life. This week of preparation is absolutely essential to insure a quality fast. Cleansing your temple through repentance opens the door to hear God's voice more clearly, to be changed by His presence, and to gain a new perspective for His vantage point.

Today I went back to Psalm 51. Remembering that David had looked over the ledge of lust and entertained the thought until sin was fully conceived; he looks to the only source of true redemption-God. In verses two and three David say, "Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me."

What a reminder for us. If we are being honest, our transgressions and sin are always before us. Jeremiah says our "heart is desperately wicked above all things, who can know it." Every one of us fall short of the "glory of God." We can't meet the standard of God's holiness, and the only remedy for our sin is to repent. Turning to God and asking Him to "wash away all our iniquity." Only He can cleanse us from our shortcomings.

We can't take sin lightly in our lives. Today I was reminded of Hebrews 6:6 which tells us that once we have walked in the light of God's Word and continue to sin it's as though we are "crucifying the Lord all over again." Just the thought of me casually treating sin in my life and causing our Lord to be crucified all over again is heartbreaking and distressing. The Message version of this verse says, "Once people have seen the light, gotten a taste of heaven and been part of the work of the Holy Spirit, once they've personally experienced the sheer goodness of God's Word and the powers breaking in on us—if then they turn their backs on it, washing their hands of the whole thing, well, they can't start over as if nothing happened. That's impossible. Why, they've re-crucified Jesus! They've repudiated him in public!"

Let's be like David, a man after God's own heart, and take our sin to God in a serious manner. My prayer for all of us is, "Cleanse us, God, and wash away all our iniquity, Amen."

Daniel Fast Preparation

2010-01-04T22:10:00.013-06:00

This is a week of preparation for our Daniel Fast starting next week. This is a time of prayerful reflection upon the Lord, and a time to be transparent and open before Him. I'm asking that each of you join with me in special times of prayer. The church will be open from 6:00am to 6:00pm for individual prayer. There will also be prayer requests scrolling up on the screens, including some missions requests.

For more information on our Daniel Fast, you can listen to my message from Sun., Jan. 3 entitled "Passageway to the Promise."

Spiritual preparation starts with repentance. I found myself in Psalm 51 today. I have read this passage many times, but today the first verse stood out to me. It states, "Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions." David wrote this psalm following the prophet Nathan's visit to him after committing adultery with Bathsheba. Reading the rest of the psalm, you feel and sense David's sorrow and grief. David knows where to turn after he has sinned. He knows the key to recovery from the depths of depravity and sin. David turns to God. But he doesn't just go to God, he acknowledges His "unfailing love," and "great compassion."

It hit me for the first time today. Repentance starts with going to God and then we begin to acknowledge His work of grace and loving conviction, bringing us to His love and compassion. Instead of being fearful, now we can enter into His presence knowing that His love and compassion toward us will always bring forgiveness. He was only waiting on us to come to Him and acknowledge our failures. With this confidence, we find ourselves free to confess everything the Lord brings to my mind. Walking in this truth today was liberating. Meditate on this passage for yourself and see what the Lord speaks to you.

Charting the Course

2009-11-09T15:25:00.005-06:00

From Sunday November 8, 2009 at Faith Chapel
Listen here

Life is change.
Growth is optional.
Choose wisely.

There are two certainties of life...
1. life will change
2. life is uncertain

Change causes...
1. Insecurity
2. Insensitivity
3. Indecisiveness
4. Isolation
5. Many to fail

Four Steps to Navigate through Change...
I. Appreciate the past
II. Accept the possibilities
III. Allow for problems
IV. Advance your potential

Here are 5 ways to grow from change:
1. Embrace it
2. Become equipped from it
3. Encourage yourself through it
4. Enjoy it
5. Eternalize it

Search & Rescue

2009-11-02T12:07:00.005-06:00

Yesterday, we as a family at Faith Chapel, looked at our purpose while here on earth - to Search & Rescue!

1. As a believer, you are to look for the lost and drowning.

2. As a believer, you carry the life preserver.

Poor Flotation Devices:

a. pleasure

b. possessions

c. pride (about me)

3. As a believer, you must develop the skills necessary to rescue the perishing.

The committed crew must be committed to:

a. His commandments

b. His commission

Skills needed:

prayer, fasting, reading His Word, learning & growing from other believers

We are on a mission to search and rescue those who are lost and are dying. We still have plenty of room in our lifeboat for people to be rescued. Let's do our part!

Just Ask - 10.4.09

2009-10-07T17:53:00.007-05:00

This Sunday we began our new series, "Just Ask." We asked everyone in the church to submit their Bible, Theology, or current events questions to be answered in this series. Here are our guidelines for this series:

1. Everyone must vote when given the opportunity.

2. You may abstain from 1 vote/service.

In searching for Truth in the Scripture, we are looking for the

a. Principles that are black and white.

b. Patterns that repeat in the Bible. (shade of gray)

c. Practices that Godly men and women had. (shades of gray)

We kicked off "Just Ask" this week by talking about these questions:

Q: What happens when you actually die?

The soul and body separate. We are spiritual beings that are having a physical experience in this world.

Q: When a person dies, do you go to heaven (if a Christian) or a resting place?

For the Christian...

1. Present with the Lord.

2. Today you will be with Me.

For the Non-Christian

1. Separated eternally from God.

Q: Why does hell exist?

1. God to deal righteously with Satan.

2. God to deal righteously with the unbeliever.

Lessons from Hell

1. The rich man was fully conscious.

2. His eternal destiny was irrevocably fixed.

3. He knew what was experiencing was just.

4. He became interested in Missions.

Q: What will Hell be like?

1. Unspeakable sorrow

2. Unsatisfied cravings

3. Unquenchable Flames of Fire

4. Eternal separation from loved ones

5. Hell is forever

Bottom line is

GOD DOESN'T WANT ANYONE TO GO TO HELL!!!

Join us this coming Sunday when we answer more questions about Heaven.

True Worshipper, part 2

2009-09-28T13:32:00.002-05:00

I have always been amazed at this passage of scripture found in John 4. Jesus tells us that if we worship in "spirit and in truth," God will seek after us. It's one thing to seek after God, and we should. For those who seek Him, "find Him when they seek with all of their heart (Jer. 29:13)." But it is clearly another thing when God seeks after you. I want to know how to capture God's attention.

So what is "true worship." Because if I worship in this way, it captures God's attention. The word worship according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance as used here means: to kiss as a dog licking the hand of his master, to lay prostrate to pay homage. If you know the history of Jesus' day, you will quickly remember that Samaritans were considered dogs or even lower to the Jews.

And because of this woman's past and her nationality, she goes to the well during the heat of the day to avoid the looks and criticisms from others. There she runs into a man, Jesus, who knows all about her past. He takes the time to minister to her even though he is tired and hungry. And at a specific moment in their discourse, He chooses a word picture for her that she could immediately identify with and understand. One she would never likely forget.

Maybe Jesus was seeking after her before she even knew it? Regardless, that was a day of destiny for her. I am aware of at least two trues here about a true worshipper.

1. They worship God with complete openness and honesty. Not concealing anything.

2. They worship God with love from their heart. Just as a dog will love his master in good times and bad. We must love God and worship Him in every situation in life. The dogs love remains constant. The dog always returns to kiss the master's hand. How long has it been since you returned to the Master to love him?

True Worshipper

2009-09-25T12:36:00.006-05:00

Lately I have been spending my devotional time in the Gospels, especially zooming in on the words of Christ. Earlier this week, I was looking at the Samaritan Woman story in John chapter four. There is so much in those twenty-six verses. However, I targeted in on the last few verses where Jesus talks about "true worship."

In the twenty-third verse, Jesus declares that the time has now come for true worship to begin. The inference is that the current worship of the day was not true worship. I began to dig around in the verse and found that the word "true" means "not concealing." How refreshing.

When we come to God in worship, we don't have to put on pretense or act as though we are in someone else's house. We can with integrity and trust in the Lord, put ourselves in a vulnerable place. A place that doesn't conceal anything from the Lord. But a place of openness and transparency.

This kind of worship goes deeper than sincerity. This is a full blown openness to the Father. It may be hard to do this at first, because we tend to keep the darkest parts of our lives to ourselves. We try to live up to an image either placed upon us by society, ourselves or our church. But true worshippers know that God is in that place ready to receive us and fill us with His grace. I want to be a true worshipper, don't you?

The Rebounder

2009-09-14T16:31:00.002-05:00

Second chances... that's what you get with a rebound. A second chance to score. A second chance to put points on the board. A second chance to do the right thing.

Many people have missed the mark, crashed the boards for a rebound, and have rebounded in their life. People like Moses, Sampson, and Peter fell but they didn't stay down. They rebounded in their life and God gave them a second chance.

This past Sunday, we heard how Travis, Maryanne, and Jim & Tina rebounded. Through different circumstances, they all found themselves needing help from God. Because of their openness and vulnerability we were able to see God's power and grace at work.

If you've missed the mark, get up. We all fall, but through God we are given a second chance. Rebound by turning to God today!

Sunday 8.30.09: The Treasure Chest

2009-08-31T11:53:00.003-05:00

God has set aside and dedicated certain things for a particular purpose. It's the way He has designed things to be. They are God's non-negotiables!

This Sunday we looked at what is in God's Treasure Chest that He has "sanctified" or "set aside" for Himself that we are NOT to touch. We should NEVER touch what is already in God's Treasure Chest - tithes, offerings, and ourselves. We challenged Faith Chapel to give to God what already belongs to Him and do NOT take it back.

God also asks for the FIRST FRUIT and not our leftovers. Don't stall in your obedience - give your FIRST fruits to God.

Also, we had a wonderful time of worship today! If you missed it, the presence of God was so powerful after worship in second service, we had a call for salvation and many people came down for prayer. Great presence of the Lord! I'm excited and ready to see what God is going to do at Faith Chapel next week. Don't miss it!

Tame the Terrible Tongue

2009-08-18T17:40:00.005-05:00

When I was a kid, my mom and I would stay up late and watch movies together. We enjoyed the classics, the war pictures, and of course, the Westerns. I am sure it was in one of those movies that I first heard the expression, "forked tongue."

I found that the "Indianism" was really used in the late 1700's to indicate a liar or a deceiver. It was first found in written form, and used to describe the Indian's relationship with government attorneys. They thought they lied, who would have guessed it?

So how can we tame the terrible tongue? James has some lessons I shared from this past Sunday's message:

1. Be quick to listen, and slow to speak- James 1:29

2. Keep a tight rein on your tongue- James 1:26

THINK

T- is it true?

H- is it helpful?

I- is it inspiring?

N- is it necessary?

K- is it kind?

3. Refuse to tear others down- James 4:11; 5:9

4. Speak only what is true- James 5:12

5. Pray for God's help in taming the tongue- James 3:8

Let's all realize that what we say and how we say it is incredibly important. You possess the "power of life and death" in the tongue (Prov. 18:21).

A Man of God

2009-08-03T10:36:00.012-05:00

I had the pleasure of sharing this past Saturday with the Faith Chapel men's group on being "A Man of God". There were about 100 of us who gathered for a great breakfast and fellowship. I love being in front of smaller groups, and get especially charged when speaking to men.

"Man of God" is an expression that continues to amaze me about Godly men in the Bible. They would show up and people would say, "There is the man of God." What a wonderful reminder of how our lives are to reflect the image of our Maker. So when people see us they know and feel that they have been in His presence.

2 Tim. 3:1-5 “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. 2People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, 4treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— 5having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.”

We know first hand the perils of living a godless life. The results are all around us. There is something in us that intrinsically knows right from wrong. We have to make living a Godly life a priority.

Priorities of Godly Living

1. God has set apart the Godly for Himself- Ps. 4:3

2. God listens when the Godly pray- John 9:31

3. Godly men mourn when injustice is executed - Acts 8:2

4. Godly sorrow brings repentance- 2 Cor. 7:10,11

5. Godliness provides present and future blessing- 1 Tim. 4:8

6. Godliness produces contentment- 1 Tim. 6:6; 11

Plan for a Godly Life

A Godly life must be pursued

1 Tim 6:11 “But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.”

Titus 2:11-14 "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.”

Godliness is conformity to the character of God, and obedience to His will. How committed are you because of your love for God to becoming a godly person? What areas of your life are needing attention in your pursuit of God?

Star Trek/ Ricardo Sanchez

2009-07-18T14:36:00.002-05:00

Growing up in the 70's & 80's, Star Trek was a show most kids watched. And I was no exception.

Tomorrow we begin a brand new series entitled "Reel Faith," and we're starting with the movie Star Trek. I can't wait to share some great truths with everyone tomorrow morning.

And as an added bonus, recording artist and award winner Ricardo Sanchez will be with us for a mini-concert in both morning services. This is a preview for a full concert on Sunday, August 16. To find out more about Ricardo go to www.ricardomusic.com. Bring someone with you and I can't wait to see you there.

Happy Fourth of July

2009-07-04T10:32:00.004-05:00

Today is one of my favorite holidays of the year. We will be spending our first 4th here in California at the home of some new friends. I love this great nation and for all she embodies, "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." This is what the American Dream is all about. Having the freedom to live out what you feel you were born to do. It's a dream that allows the poor to become rich, the obscure to become famous and the captive to be liberated.

This freedom is foundational to all Americans, and was the basis of our government from its inception. This freedom is best seen when people help others. America is know as the greatest benevolent nation in the world. Because helping others be free from tragedy and tyranny, and allowing them to share in one of the world's single greatest gifts is what freedom demands us to do.

However, in order to really be free one must become a prisoner. Like the prophet Zechariah said, "O prisoners of Hope.." (Zech. 9:12). And isn't that what has caused this great Nation to weather storms and battles: hope. In America, the land of the free, we are and have always been "prisoners of hope." We can make the world a better place, help the needy, assist the elderly, love the downtrodden all while offering them something they can't see for themselves in their current condition, hope.

And this hope was prevalent when our founding fathers left the most prosperous nation in the world and declared our own independence. This kind of hope is only truly found in Christ. Paul wrote to the Colossians about this hope in Christ being alive in them (Col. 1:27). And this kind of hope does not disappoint us (Ro. 5:5).

So this Fourth of July, take a moment to remember where real freedom comes from and not only celebrate our Country's independence, but your own in Him.

Draw Near to God

2009-05-27T19:24:00.004-05:00

We are in a new series of messages at Faith Chapel entitled Draw Near based upon James 4:8, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." The thing that I can't get over is that God desires to come near to me. Despite all of my failures and shortcomings, the God of heaven and earth desires to come close to me. Unbelievable!

As we started the series I shared these exciting facts about God's desire.

1. God's passionate desire is you- Ex. 13:14; Ps. 40:5; Ps. 139:17,18; Jer. 29:11

God is absolutely and passionately in love with you. You are His creation and made in His image.

2. God purposefully communicates-

In 1 Cor. 12:2, Paul says, "You know when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols." Paul is conveying a very profound truth to the Corinthians Church. He is really drawing a line in the sand. On one side is the God of the Bible and on the other side stands all of the other Gods from the world. And what separates God from all of the other Gods in the entire world is that He wants to communicate with you. They are mute, but God speaks (Jn. 10:27).

3. God pursues His valued-

Scripture says, "What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? (Mt. 16:26)" My take on this verse is very simple. You have nothing of equal or greater value to give to God for the saving of your own soul. But read what He exchanged for yous. (Phil. 2:5-11)

John Piper in his book, "A Hunger for God," said, "If we don't feel strong desires for the manifestation of the Glory of God, it is not because we have drunk deeply and are satisfied. It is because we have nibbled so long at the table of the world. Our soul is stuffed with small things and there is no room for the Great."

Journey Series, "Open Arms" - Part 1

2009-05-11T16:27:00.000-05:00

There isn't a better story in all the Bible that depicts this truth like the parable of the prodigal son found in Luke 15:11. It's interesting that this story is really the journey of two brothers.

The younger brother asked for his inheritance (which according to the custom of that day, he was allowed to do) and squandered it. His journey reveals three things to me:

The younger brother had...

Empty finances
Empty stomach
Empty soul

The empty finances represent the times we squander God's blessings in our own lives. So always try to give God his portion (10%) and then pay yourself a portion (10%). Then you will be prepared for the lean times.

His empty stomach brought him to the point of hanging out with pigs and even considering eating with them. This shows the depth of his hunger and desperation. No good Jewish boy would be caught dead around pigs who were considered unclean. When you make a bad decision, don't blame God for it. The choices you make now are always outcomes later.

And his empty soul is obvious. Scripture says, "he came to his senses... I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you'" (vv. 17,18). He realized that everything he needed was right there before him all the time. Everything he ever needed was at home with his father.

Is it time to go home and back to your Heavenly Father? You will find Him welcoming you with "Open Arms" (v. 20).

Journey Series- "Don't Stop Believing"

2009-05-07T16:12:00.001-05:00

When we begin our spiritual journey, we are usually filled with a desire to do great things for God. We have a dream in our heart. However, the journey can get long. And potholes, roadblocks and detours can distract us from our original God given dream journey.

Proverbs 29:18 (KJV), tells us that "where there is no vision, the people perish." In other words, when dreams die, we die. In Scripture, Joseph is called The Dreamer. And after receiving his God given dream, his brothers hated him and couldn't even speak a "kind word to him" (Gen. 37:4).

His brothers threw him into a pit and sold him into slavery. Potiphar's wife tried to seduce him and lied about him. He is arrested, thrown into prison, and finally brought before Pharaoh to interpret a dream. According to Scripture, he was 17 yrs old when he received his dream (Gen. 37:1). And he is made prime minister over all of Egypt when he is 30 yrs old (Gen. 41:46). And finally after seven years of prosperity and seven years of famine, Joseph's dream is fulfilled.

Joseph carried his dream for 27 years.

Here is the dream dilemma: Do you give up or go on? Do you stop believing when things don't seemingly work out or don't appear to be headed in the right direction toward fulfillment, or do you continue to "press on toward the mark of the high calling?"

Don't stop believing in your dream no matter how long it's been. The God who gave it to you is the same God who will bring it about. What dream have you stopped believing for? What have you lost hope about in your life? It may take a long time for it to be realized, but it will come to pass if you stay faithful.

Journey Series- Faithfully

2009-05-04T15:39:00.012-05:00

Maybe you remember the Journey song, "Faithfully" from your high school days, like I do. It was one of those songs some people slowed danced to. Actually, no one really danced--they just kind of stood there, right?

We used this song as a starter for part 1 of our series called Journey: Where Are You Going? As we explore our spiritual life journey, we see some important elements arise for us.

First, we have to look at the life of Moses. God asked Moses to join Him on Mt. Sinai. There Moses receives the 10 Commandments. He comes down the mountain and the people are worshiping a golden calf. After a rebuke and a time of repentance, the people of God are ready to journey towards the Promise Land. God lays it all out for Moses, but tells him that He won't go because they "have sinned and they are stiff necked."

Moses replies by saying, "If I have found favor with you, then go with us." To which God says, "My presence will go with you. I'll see the journey to the end" (Ex. 33:14, Message).

I find great assurance and rest in this verse. Every time we go to God, whether we have made a mistake or not, once we have repented, He will see us through our life's journey. That's why Scripture states, "The steps of the righteous are ordered by the Lord" (Ps. 37:23). He will never leave you, nor forsake you.

The suffix "fully" means "full of." So faith-fully is literally "full of faith." God is faithful and unchanging. He will do His part. But we are prone to wonder and have our ups and downs spiritually. So we must do everything possible to develop our faith in the Lord and be found faithful.

In Numbers 33:1-50, Scripture records the different stages the Israelites had to journey through in order to reach the promise land. Depending on how you count, there are 41 or 43 different stages in their journey. Here are my take-a-ways from that passage:

1. God wanted the different stages written down showing how important it is to journal through the journey.

2. God didn't tell the Israelites the entire journey up front because they would have become overwhelmed at the length and the difficulties related to such a journey.

3. God speaks to them one stage at a time making it simple for them to be faithful. Verse 5 says, "The Israelites left Ramses and camped at Succoth."

I believe God is telling you to be faithful right where you are now. Don't worry about the entire journey or all the possible problems. Everyone wants to do something big for God and sometimes wait until something big comes along. God is simply saying, "Leave Ramses and go to Succoth." Be faithful in the little and don't despise small beginnings. You never know what God is building in you for the future.

New Series: Journey

2009-04-17T00:25:00.006-05:00

Everyone probably remembers the 70's - 80's rock band "Journey." Their song, "Don't Stop Believing" is the number one downloaded song of all time on iTunes. For the next four weeks, we are going to use four of the band's greatest hits as backdrops to a new series called Journey.

The word journey- is defined as traveling from one place to another, usually taking a rather long time, or a passage or progress from one stage to another: the journey to success.

You may not know it, but you are on a journey. And your journey is taking you to a particular destination. Do you know where you’re going? And equally important, do you know where you
are going to end up?

I Peter 1:18-21 (msg) says: Your life is a journey you must travel with a deep consciousness of God. It cost God plenty to get you out of that dead-end, empty-headed life you grew up in. He paid with Christ's sacred blood, you know. He died like an unblemished, sacrificial lamb. And this was no afterthought. Even though it has only lately—at the end of the ages—become public knowledge, God always knew he was going to do this for you. It's because of this sacrificed Messiah, whom God then raised from the dead and glorified, that you trust God, that you know you have a future in God.

Be here at Faith Chapel the next four Sundays for Journey: Where Are You Going?

4/19- "Faithfully"

4/26- "Don’t Stop Believing"

5/3- "Open Arms"

5/10- "Separate Ways"

Five Things a Church can Learn from Opening Day at the Ballpark

2009-04-05T23:25:00.001-05:00

Baseball's opening day for most teams is tomorrow, and that got me thinking about the feeling and excitement of the stadium on opening day. I recently did a small teaching with the entire pastoral/support staff here at Faith Chapel using this example.

Opening day is so exciting. There's a spark in the air and anticipation fills the voices of fans. There's a unity in the stadium unlike any other day. Everyone is rooting for the home team to win. Fans can be seen giving "high fives" to people they don't know as a player delivers a big hit or a pitcher strikes out the opposition.

Everything is clean and freshly painted. It's like the entire stadium is inviting you to enter and be a part of the big event. Workers are energized and freshly trained. Even the players are more willing to mingle with fans and accommodate their requests.

This sounds a lot like church. In fact, every day should be "OPENING DAY" at church! We should carry that friendly smile and greet everyone with warmth and acceptance. They should also be willing to accommodate their reasonable requests. The church should be clean and fresh.

The unity produced by sincere community gives way to excitement and celebration. When this is directed to the Lord, the church is filled with a Spirit of anticipation and faith. Why don't we make everyday OPENING DAY?

Here are my five take-a-ways:
1. Unity- everyone on the same team
2. Clean and inviting conditions- you don't get a second chance to make a good first impression
3. Hospitable and friendly customer service- everyone one should feel welcome
4. Excitement gives way to Celebration- it's contagious and we should express ourselves openly with great joy.
5. Staff/Ministry leaders are well trained-

{look up Col. 3:23; 1 Cor. 14:12; 2 Cor. 8:7}

The Cross: The Arthur Blessitt Story

2009-03-27T16:53:00.012-05:00

Yesterday, Jennifer and I went to see the new film "The Cross: the Arthur Blessitt Story." I hadn't read any reviews and wasn't quite sure what to expect.

The story is well done--documentary style--by producer Matt Crouch. The Katinas music is an added bonus.

In the film, we follow Arthur as he begins on Sunset Blvd. in Hollywood and carries a wooden cross all over the world for 40 years. It's the story of one man's life, completely surrendered in obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ. Arthur Blessitt's only desire is to serve the Lord by sharing God's love with anyone who will listen.

As I sat there in that theater I was challenged to cultivate an even deeper relationship with Christ. Arthur Blessitt's story will cause you to take a look too. His struggles and challenges, which he calls opportunities, give way for God to do miracles. And God wants to do miracles through your life too.

One of the greatest truths of the movie was the reminder of how simple and powerful the Cross really is. It is a message of God's love to everyone, regardless of race, location, or status. And the Cross is still powerful enough to draw men and women together from every walk of life. It's power is unparalleled and on display as Blessitt walks through wars, jungles, poverty and more. May God bless people like Arthur Blessitt who live a life worth following. This movie should be seen by everyone who calls themselves a believer.

Click here to find a theater showing "The Cross"

Chase The Lion Series

2009-03-12T13:02:00.024-05:00

Over the past few days I have been settling into a new house, new church and a new routine. Along with that is trying to find my way around a new city. I have a GPS system, but turn it off on return trips to see if I can find my way back. So far it's about 50/50.

The house is right beside the church which allows me easy access to work. Without my family being here, it is also tempting for me to work more than I should. There is a lot going on and I feel the need to get a handle on things quickly.

Right now I'm in a series of messages based on the book "In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day" by Mark Batterson. Mark and I went to college together and he was nice enough to send a short promo video for the start of the series (watch it below). Chase The Lion had a great impact at my former church and I felt it would be a great series leading up to Easter at Faith Chapel. You can listen to part 1- "Defying Odds" here.

The book contains a Lion Chaser's Manifesto, and one part says something similar to, "don't let the bad in you keep you from worshiping the good in Him."

I think that's powerful! Far too many people focus on their shortcomings instead of directing their attention to "the author and perfecter of our faith." What would happen if we focused on God's example instead of our failures? How would that change us? How would that change what we attempted for God?

Go West - Day 3, Phoenix 1st Prayer Pavilion

2009-03-05T14:19:00.002-06:00

Go West - Day 2

2009-03-04T14:45:00.003-06:00

Go West Young Man

2009-03-03T11:08:00.006-06:00

We are heading west! This morning I am leaving home in a moving truck headed for San Diego. With me to help drive is Tony Orlando, youth pastor at Faith Chapel. I am going to try to post some video blogs of our journey, so check back this week to hear more about our trip. I'm also posting on Facebook some photos of my day yesterday as we packed and had a nice BBQ dinner.

Snow Day in KC

2009-02-28T19:44:00.002-06:00

I was getting all choked up about leaving KC and then .... I found myself shoving the driveway and freezing. San Diego looks better all the time.

No seriously, I love the snow and will miss it. It is always so beautiful and reminds me of God's grace which covers our sins and makes us white as snow.

Sent on the Now Network� from my Sprint® BlackBerry

Welcome!

2009-02-27T08:53:00.001-06:00

I am glad you found us here on our new blog. As you know, I am now the senior pastor of Faith Chapel Assembly of God in Spring Valley, California. We are leaving Englewood Assembly in Independence, Missouri after 17 years. It's hard to believe sometimes, but God is truly calling us to move out of our comfort zone and into a brand new area of ministry. That is exciting!

We had a warm and gracious send-off from Englewood. We will forever treasure our memories, friendships, and growth there. We will continually pray for this church and anticipate God doing some awesome things through new leadership.

Jennifer, Joe, Brian, Braeden at Englewood going-away reception

The past couple of weeks have been extremely busy. Flying back and forth between San Diego and Kansas City has made things a little crazy. I find myself looking forward to the time when I get to SD on a full-time basis.

Things are off to a good start at Faith Chapel, but there is still a lot for a new guy to learn and catch up on. The people have been amazingly friendly and kind. It feels like home already. I hope to start posting on a more regular basis during the week of March 9th, so check back. You'll hear all about what God is up to with me personally, at Faith Chapel, and in our family. Also, you can follow me on Facebook. It's going to be fun!

Five Keys to a Better Fast

2009-01-14T14:44:00.026-06:00

For those of you on the Daniel Fast with us, by now you should be done with the headaches and ready to really start focusing in on the Lord. You might be asking yourself, "What is the purpose of fasting, anyway?"

Fasting is a spiritual act of worship, directed to the Lord. And like any act of true worship, the action changes us and enables us to be empowered. Here are five keys to consider during your fast:

1. Be specific about why you are fasting-
2. Make a spiritual commitment, not a physical one-
3. The outer discipline should reflect an inner desire-
4. It is a statement of faith for others-
5. Yield the results to God-

These 5 keys are also very applicable for those of you medically unable to particpate in the Daniel Fast, but are "fasting" something else in your life.

I am believing with everyone, that God will move mightily in your lives and meet all of your "needs according to His riches and glory in Christ Jesus."

Don't forget to share your best Daniel Fast recipes with everyone by leaving them in the comment section. Also, if you're on Facebook, check out the group What I Ate On The Daniel Fast for encouragement, meal ideas, etc.

Daniel Fast Begins

2009-01-12T10:51:00.004-06:00

We begin our 21 day Daniel Fast today. I hope you and your family are joining with Jennifer and I on the spiritual quest. Fasting when combined with prayer brings new power, destroys the enemies strongholds and allows us to enter into a deeper walk with God.

God has certain expectations of us as believers. In Matthew chapter 6, Jesus names three areas that every Christian should do: "When you give (v. 2),... When you pray (v. 5), and ... When you fast (v. 16). He did not say "if" you do these, but "when you do."

So I am asking everyone to be involved in this years Daniel Fast. Don't forget to check the daily Scriptures on the side bar for inspiration and encouragement.

And The People's Choice Award Goes To...

2009-01-07T22:59:00.007-06:00

...Barabbas! Rome's Bad Boy. Mr. Rebellious. Did time in the 'pen. Probably had tatoos, a few piercings and rode a Harley. Think Oakland Raiders fan. An overall scary dude.

In John chapter 18, we witness Barabbas win The People's Choice Award, the King of the Jews being the only other nominee. The award presenter is none other than Pontius Pilate. Think spineless schmuck.

Jesus got the shaft.

The Jewish crowd chose Barabbas out of pure rebellion. It wasn't so much that they wanted Barabbas; but their hatred of Jesus had grown to such a level that they would have cried for anyone else to be released.

The crowd wanted no part of Jesus' teachings and claims. They had no intention of following a man who convicted them of sin. They took matters into their own hands.

This is the deceptiveness of sin. By rejecting the convictions of God in our lives, we deceive ourselves. We make Satan's job easy. When "we the people" ignore the Word, isolate ourselves from worship, and refuse to involve God in our choices, then just like the crowd that day, we are making The People's Choice not The Lord's Choice for our lives.

Stop living your life for YOU and choose to live it for the One who created you. It comes with a great award!

The Power of We

2009-01-05T10:12:00.001-06:00

Throughout Scripture, we see multipled power in unity. When God's people come together and work for Kingdom causes (with Kingdom attitudes!), great things take place. This is the power of "we". This past Sunday our topic was, "What if we..."

1. ...Prayed every day?

2. ...Fasted once a week?

3. ...Tithed a tenth of our income?

4. ...Became involved in personal evangelism?

5. ...Attended church every week?

If everyone of us would personalize these five points, I believe we could see the power of God manifest in a powerful way in our church, and in our lives. These simple- but key- disciplines unlock the doorway to knowing God and hearing from Him. And when we know God's voice we can experience not only the joy of knowing Him, but the fruit of the obedient life.

Isn't it time to live God's way? To stay faithful in the small things? To strive towards a Kingdom Unity? It's through our faithfulness in these simple disciplines that we begin to see God's favor multiply our harvest. As we start this new year, let's focus on the Power of We.

Sensational Christmas

2008-12-23T01:45:00.001-06:00

We love this time of year. Spending time together, all the homemade goodies & great food, seeing extended family, etc. Of course, the kids can't wait for the presents!

Years ago, when I gave my heart to Jesus, Christmas began to take on a deeper meaning. And it's that Spirit that always seems to be present during our recent "Carols, Candles, and Communion" service.

As we celebrated Christ's birth as a church family, the entire experience was especially meaningful as we pulled up to the table of the Lord and remembered His birth, life and death for us. The message leading into communion was from 1 John 1:1-9.

The passage starts by addressing the senses, "which we have heard...seen...and our hands have touched." And that's exactly what Christmas does for me and so many others. It touches our senses. The lights, food, carols and family time all bring our senses to alert and draw us into the holiday. But the most moving expression isn't from festivities or family; but from the "life that appeared" on that first Christmas day in the form of a baby.

And the Apostle John reminds us that this is to make our "joy complete." Even the angel heralded the same message to the shepherds, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people (Lk. 2:10)."

How about you? Do you have the joy of Christmas this season? Or have the distractions of Christmas kept you from experiencing the real joy, Emmanuel- God with Us. I pray that you have a sensational Christmas by being able to sense the presence and experience the joy of Jesus.

A Friend Loves at All Times

2008-12-21T20:05:00.004-06:00

This week while I was praying, a familiar passage of Scripture came to mind found in Proverbs 17:17 which says, "A friend loves at all times." It caused me to take a moment to reflect about God's love for me, and His friendship.

First, the simple fact that God would call me friend still blows me away. Words cannot express how unbelievable it is to have the unchanging, sovereign God say, "I'm your friend."

Secondly, He even shows us what true friendship is all about: unselfish love. A love that doesn't think about self first, but rather makes the other person the object of friendship and love.

And lastly, His love is constant. It doesn't fluctuate. We don't find it only when we are doing well and are lovable. No, His love is there even when we are unlovable.

And isn't this the litmus test for our all of our relationships? Do we love selflessly at all times? Or do we allow the down times to pull us away from our friends? I believe the true test of one's character is found in their ability to love people at all times. Even when people are unlovable or have done something that causes us to lose trust in them. For a "friend loves at all times."

Christmas Toy Giveaway

2008-12-15T09:33:00.012-06:00

Sunday was a fantastic day for Englewood. It was our annual Christmas outreach where we invite families from the community to join with our church family to experience the Christmas message and a toy giveaway. Both services were packed and I couldn't be more proud of the staff pastors and tons of volunteers who made this day possible. You continue to amaze me with your love and devotion for our community and the Lord. I pray God will reward you for your service to Him and the Kingdom.

The children's program, "Angel Alert" was great, as usual. The kids looked so cute and they did a wonderful job ministering through song, scripture and drama. I love watching them smile after they "nail" their line or song. But the absolute best part were the numerous people who raised their hands to accept Christ after both presentations. Our children, ministering to the families of the community--Awesome!

After the invitation for salvation, we passed out gifts to every child in the building. It was so much fun sensing the anticipation in their faces and seeing them reach out to receive their gift. What joy comes in giving. This marks the ninth year in a row that we have blessed the community and our children with gifts on Christmas. Ministry can be so much fun when you are serving others!

4 Principles of Pearl Harbor

2008-12-11T06:45:00.000-06:00

This past Sunday (Dec. 7, 2008) my message was entitled, "A Date Which Will Live in Infamy." The title, of course, comes from the well known speech given by Franklin D. Roosevelt the day after Japanese aircraft bombed Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

In 2007, our family was able to take our first trip to Hawaii (hopefully not our last!). Without a doubt, one of the major highlights was touring the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu. Very humbling to experience a place where so much pain and suffering happened. It is an important and interesting part of American history, and simply fascinating to go there.

On the USS Arizona Memorial and checking out the ship below with Braeden

On that day in American history, 2,280 military personnel lost their lives, 1,109 were wounded and 68 civilians also died. The sad thing about that day is that it didn't have to happen. Or at the very least, the results of the attacks could have been less damaging.

Consider this...

Intelligence department intercepted messages about the coming attack, but didn't forward the entirety of the messages to the commanding officers in Oahu, Hawaii.
There were warnings of Japanese spies in Hawaii, but they weren't found or captured.
The morning of Dec. 7, military personnel manning the sonar saw a massive amount of aircraft coming toward them, but it was considered U. S. B-17's coming from the mainland.
And finally, a sub periscope was seen in the harbor before the attack. Despite this, there was no alert given.

Here are 4 Principles of Pearl Harbor that we can learn from...

1. Pearl Harbor's Pride- They thought they were untouchable. Nothing could happen. Read Pro. 16:18; Ps. 10:4; Lk 18:11-16; and James 4:6.

2. Pearl Harbor's Warning- listed above were all the warning signs that were given. Because God loves us, He gives us many warning signs as well to make us change course. Many times we don't see and hear them because we aren't paying attention.

3. Pearl Harbor's Price- The price that was paid for having too much pride and not listening to the warning signs were great. On top of the men and women who lost their lives, nearly every aircraft was destroyed or damaged, 8 battleships were sunk or destroyed, 2 destroyers were sunk and several other warships. The price is great if we don't examine ourselves for weaknesses (see 2 Cor. 13:5; Mt. 7:22,23; Mt. 7:13,14).

4. Pearl Harbor's Power- There was an incredible display of Japanese power that day. But there was also a tremendous display of U.S. power and resolve. As believers, we have power that is beyond our strength (see 1 Jn. 4:4; 2 Cor. 10:3-6; Ps. 91:11; Ps. 68:1).

Are you listening to the warning signs God is placing in your life? Are they quiet, gentle warnings or have they become obvious and loud? Swallow your pride, heed the warning signs, count the cost, and lean on God's power. He cares for you, loves you, and wants what's best for you.

Snow Day & Spiritual Endorphins

2008-12-10T12:32:00.014-06:00

Two of the greatest words in the English language: "No School"!

We actually got our kids back out of bed last night to come and hear it on the news. No school in Independence today. SNOW DAY! There was fist pumping, jumping, high-fiving, lots of "Wooo baby!", etc.

Wonder if anybody has ever done a study on the amount of endorphins released in children upon hearing the phrase "No School"? I still kinda get pumped up myself! It's a definite euphoria trigger.

I'm very thankful that I can be at home with my boys. We slept in, I made a big breakfast, and we're going to chill out today; maybe catch a movie and wait for church tonight.

You know, I've just had a stirring in my spirit and an excitement about the service tonight. I don't know why; for all intents and purposes it's a normal Wed. night. But God has been saying to me, "Are you excited to enter my presence? I have something for you and I'll meet you there."

Does being in God's presence to wait upon Him, worship Him, and hear His Word excite you? Does it release some spiritual endorphins in you? Does it trigger a joy and a hunger for God in you? It can and it will. Read Psalm 16:11

Bull Riding Video

2008-12-08T13:21:00.007-06:00

Below is a short video used as support for the Live Like You Were Dying message series. Okay, Brian did a little indoor rock climbing instead of "Rocky mountain climbing", but that's a real 600+ lb. Brahma bull he rides for 2.1 seconds. The guy said 2.1 is actually very good for a first timer. Trust me when I say it has been 3 weeks since that ride, and Brian's backside is still very bruised and sore!

Overall, we received a lot of great testimonies about the series and we hope people were challenged. Here's the video:

I almost forgot-- one of the coolest things that we were able to do for the series was to hand out these LLYWD bracelets. God put it on the heart of a guy in our church, so he had them made and donated them to us. It reminds us all that God gives us just one life. We must love deeper, speak sweeter, forgive others, and live with a sense of eternity- Psalm 90:12.

Elements of a Close Friendship

2008-12-05T21:57:00.014-06:00

We are currently going through the Beth Moore DVD bible study series, "A Woman's Heart, God's Dwelling Place" during our women's Connect Class on Sunday mornings. FYI- Connect Class is our attempt at a trendy name for Sunday School! Hey, there's a "cool" name for everything now.

The study has been truly awesome. I look forward to watching Beth teach every week. This week's lesson was out of Exodus 33 and examines the presence of God. As Beth taught, she compared God's presence to a close friendship. I really liked what she had to say, so I'm sharing it here as well.

Elements of a Close Friendship:

1. Secrets- When you have a close friendship, you know personal things that aren't publicly known about that person. On the contrary, when you have to say to someone, "It's none of your business!", what you are saying is 'you and I are not that close'. Our heavenly Father will never say that to us. Read John 15:13-15

2. Small Talk- Close friends are able to talk about the ridiculous stuff. The trivial. (For me, Jennifer, the Twitter-able). There are no awkward moments of silence. We are experiencing the close presence of God when everything we say to Him does not have to be so profound. Just talking to Him. Like the old song says, 'He's as close as the mention of His name'.

There are friendships and then there are close friendships. There is God and then there is the presence of God. We all need friends, but we are sharpened and changed by close friendships. And we surely must try to learn as much as possible about our loving God, but NOTHING is as important as experiencing His presence continually in our lives.

Thanksgiving Outreach '08

2008-11-28T00:35:00.000-06:00

This past Saturday was another great Englewood night. Pastor Brad Oyler and Pastor Amy Bales headed up two different teams that went out and placed door hangers on local homes inviting them to our 12th annual Thanksgiving outreach. They passed out approximately 2,500 door hangers, and we prayed and waited for the community to come.

The service and give-a-ways were scheduled to start at 6:00 p.m., but people began to arrive a little before 4:oo p.m. At one point, the line went up and around the corner. We had 643 people register with many others coming to the service unregistered. All in all, we had over 700 people show up. But that's not the best part.

The service started with the band and media departments doing an awesome job, and then I followed with a simple illustrated message. After the message was over, nearly 70 people came forward to accept Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. And that's why we do it!

Afterwards, we gave away approximately 150 turkeys and 200 boxes of food. This allowed us to minister not just in word, but also in deed. This year was the smoothest in moving the people from registration to service to food lines. A BIG THANK YOU to all who gave, assisted and ministered to our community. I am very proud of you and of what God is doing through our church.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T09:06:00.000-06:00

It is believed that the first Thanksgiving took place in Plymouth Colony, in present-day Massachusetts, in 1621. More than 200 years later, President Abraham Lincoln declared the final Thursday in November as a national day of thanksgiving. Congress finally made Thanksgiving Day an official national holiday in 1941. You see, families have been gathering to give thanks for hundreds of years!

But whether you celebrate Thanksgiving Day with a few close friends or family members, watching football or the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, eating a little or a lot; we have many things to be thankful for. Even in the middle of an "economic downturn," we are blessed.

For instance, we have our families that are with us through good times and bad. They encourage us when we are down, and pull us back to reality when we get a little full of ourselves. Family is the foundation of our lives.

We should also be thankful for our church family. The church isn't simply a place to meet with God, worship Him and hear His Word. It is also where we find our place in a much larger family, the Family of God. It's a place to share our gifts and strengths, and a place to find acceptance and grace. I am glad Englewood is a place like that.

There are many other things to be thankful for, such as: our wonderful country, freedom, friends, and our health; however, the most important reason we should be thankful is that we know a God who loves us. That one simple truth still stirs my heart and causes me to grow, be more adventurous, but mostly trust Him.

My Thanksgiving prayer for you is that you will continue to trust God with all your heart, grow closer to Him and allow Him to take you to new heights. From our family to yours, have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

The Life of a Pastor

2008-11-18T15:46:00.013-06:00

From Monday afternoon to Tuesday morning, I have had the time of my life! Pastors deal with a lot of things that we don't enjoy or are difficult. But everyone once in a while, we get to participate in things that are really fun and rewarding.

In my son's kindergarten class the letters of the alphabet are reinforced with cute rhymes and songs. When two words start with the same letter such as "Taco Tuesday," it's called a double whammy, emphasizing the letter and its sound quality. So Monday I dressed up in the church's Toby the Tiger outfit and made an appearance to four different classes. It was great, but the kids did not have as much fun as I did. It is really liberating have a mask on and no one know who you are! I think there's a sermon in there??? I would like to thank Mrs. Bailey and the school for allowing me to participate.

Then on Tuesday we went to a rodeo for a video shoot for the "Live Like You Were Dying" series. You know the song, "...I went 2.7 seconds, on a bull named Fu Man Chu." Well, I rode a 600+ lb. Brahma bull. You'll have to wait for the video to find out how long I actually went, but it was awesome. The ride is great; the hard part is getting off!

A special thanks goes out to Benjamin Ranch for allowing us to come and use their facilities; to Roger and Sha'rrell Haws for setting it up--are you trying to kill me?; and to Pastor Ryan for running the camera. It should be a pretty funny video.

These are the times that make being a pastor fun, causing me to reflect on why I enjoy it so much. I love being involved with kids and the community, as well as using creative ways to promote the Lord. The tougher times are what cause me to reflect on the fact that I know God has called me to do what I do. It's both the joy and the pain that brings growth, maturity, fulfillment, and blessing.

Week 3 "Love Deeper"

2008-11-18T15:31:00.005-06:00

As of Sunday, we were almost to the halfway mark in our 30 day spiritual journey called, "Live Like You Were Dying." It has been amazing to dive into Scripture and learn about some very important issues in our lives. Sunday was no different. The topic was "love deeper." Two important and powerful words, especially when used together.

What could be more important than this topic? God revealed His great love to us through His Son, Jesus Christ (John 3:16). And Christ demonstrated that love by dying in our place (Romans 5:8). We must take God's love and reflect it to those who are hurting and dying without hope. That's our mandate!

There are three action steps we are trying to keep before us this entire week...

1. Do the unexpected- When you do, you will never be forgotten.
2. Do the unaffordable- Christ paid a very high price for you and me.
3. Do it now- You aren't promised tomorrow, so don't wait.

LLYWD Wk 2 "Speak Sweeter"

2008-11-10T16:33:00.005-06:00

We started week two in our Live Like You Were Dying Campaign yesterday with the emphasis from the song being, "Speak Sweeter." The key verse for you to meditate on or memorize is found in 1 Thessalonians 5:11 which says, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." And the greatest way to encourage someone is through your words.

Words are incredibly powerful and creative. Proverbs 18:21 says the "tongue has the power of life and death." Words can inspire and motivate or wound and destroy. How you use your words and the attitude behind them can alter someone's destiny forever.

Yesterday we looked at three ways to speak sweeter:
1. Appreciate People- Col. 2:7
We do that by...
* saying Thanks to the people who serve us.
* saying Thanks to the people who shape us.

2. Encourage People- 1 Thes. 5:11; Prov. 16:24

3. Pray for People- Eph. 6:18; Mt. 7:7-11

In the message, I challenged everyone to let their words be life giving this week. Because I believe if you had less than 30 days to live, you would speak sweeter. Don't forget to pick up your LLYWD wrist band at the information table to remind you all week long to live according to these principles we are learning.

Now, "May the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace" (Num. 6:24-26).

Live Like You Were Dying Intro Video

2008-11-03T09:46:00.001-06:00

Live Like You Were Dying Series

2008-11-02T16:41:00.008-06:00

This week, we began a new message series "Live Like You Were Dying". For the next 30 days, we will focus on spiritual transformation as we are challenged to:

Live with a sense of urgency (1 Peter 4:7-8)
Live with a sense of eternity (Psalm 90:12)
Live with a sense of priority (Ephesians 5:15-17)
Give up the frantic pursuit of the “good life” (Matthew 16:25-26)
Make more time for relationships (Hebrews 10:24-25)
Offer forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32)
Celebrate being released from God’s judgment (Romans 8:33-34)
Liberate others from your judgment (Romans 14:13)
Do the unexpected in love (Matthew 5:39-42)

Daily devotional readings will be posted in the side bar each week. I truly believe you will grow spiritually during this series if you are faithful reading and meditating on God's Word. By the way, our band sounded awesome on the title song this morning !

For a greater glimpse into the series, here's the promo video:

Pumpkin Time

2008-10-31T16:35:00.004-05:00

Earlier this week, Brian took charge of the pumpkin carving at our house. The boys really enjoyed it, especially the baked pumpkin seeds. Braeden went the traditional route and Joe did a KC Royals carving. I love these simple family times. Kids grow up too fast, don't they?

How Would Jesus Vote?

2008-10-31T16:30:00.005-05:00

Book Summary: The 2008 election is shaping up to be one of the most important political contests in American history. In fact, Dr. D. James Kennedy believes it will be a watershed moment that could impact our very survival as a nation under God.

Values voters—people whose political views and votes are based on their faith in God—are being targeted as never before. As the campaign season moves forward, the significant players will debate terrorism, radical Islam, nuclear threats, global warming, social issues, gay marriage, immigration, education, health care, and many other essential issues that can create sharp ideological divisions.

Into this overwhelmingly complex political situation, Dr. Kennedy and Jerry Newcombe bring a clear, compelling, and nonpartisan exploration of what God’s Word has to say on these critical matters. How Would Jesus Vote? isn’t intended to tell readers which candidates to support; rather it offers a Christ-centered understanding of the world to help readers draw their own political conclusions.

Get this book on Amazon

Think On These Things

2008-10-27T14:04:00.007-05:00

A few weeks ago, I was traveling home in my car late at night. I had the stereo tuned to my favorite talk radio station. And as I drove, my mind wondered between the events of the day and the political debate on the radio. I came to a complete stop at a red light (I know it's hard to believe), then proceeded to drive through the intersection with the light still red by accident, treating it as a stop sign.

Almost all of you have done that, don't lie! But it bothered me that I could be so distracted. Two weeks ago I heard a former drivers ed. instructor ask if anyone had done exactly what I explained. He said he knew why, so I listened in. He explained that since we were sixteen years old, the traffic light has been referred to as a stop light. And when it's red, we sometimes stop, look both ways, and proceed.

He said that if we thought about the light as a traffic light we would never run it. Because the trigger would be stop, WAIT FOR A GREEN LIGHT, then proceed. He suggested that simple adjustment in thinking would cause us to stop and wait for the green.

Proverbs tells us that "For as he thinks in his heart, so is he" (Pro. 23:7 NKJV). It's amazing how our patterns of thinking effect our lives, even in the small situations such as traffic lights. This passage is saying we can control, to a certain extent, our lives by learning to direct our thoughts.

That's why Scripture admonishes us to direct our thoughts to "whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things" (Phil. 4:8 NIV). So, what have you been thinking about today?

Late Night In The Phog

2008-10-20T11:12:00.013-05:00

Our family spent last Friday night in Lawrence, Kansas at Late Night In The Phog. Free admission + the unveling of the National Championship banner was enough to persuade us to spend a family night with the Jayhawks at KU. Even if you're not a big KU fan, being inside a filled-to-capacity Phog Allen Fieldhouse is an exciting experience.

Brian and Joe have been to a couple of basketball games in recent years, but I had not been inside "The Phog" in a very long time. About 10 years ago, Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls played an exhibition game there and a bunch of us went. I'll never forget the lightning storm of flashes that went off every time MJ touched the ball. It was amazing!

During Late Night In The Phog, Coach Bill Self addressed the crowd, the team scrimmaged, etc. and of course they unveiled the new banners (NCAA Champs, Final Four, Big 12 Champs). Someone in our family even caught a cool t-shirt :)

Great time as a family and good memories. Here's some pics:

Kids Fest '08

2008-10-17T13:27:00.009-05:00

Our 14th annual Kids Fest will be held on Friday, Oct. 31 from 5-9pm at Paradise Park in Lee's Summit. Kids will receive a bag of candy, while supplies last. **NEW THIS YEAR: Kids will have the option of going on a special treasure hunt for their candy with a treasure map included!

Kids Fest at Paradise Park includes use of the Foam Factory, Rock Wall, Bumper Cars, Mini-golf, Hayride, Sand Volleyball, Edutainment Center, Batting Cages, and Pedal Go-karts. Video games and Cafe available for additional charges.

Kids are welcome to dress up! (no scary costumes, please) This is a great night of fun for the entire family. Feel free to invite other friends or families.

Kids Fest admission to Paradise Park on this night is $5 per person in advance (wristbands available for sale on Sundays or from the church office) or $7 per person at the door.

Shape of Mercy

2008-10-17T13:03:00.000-05:00

Summary: Lauren Durough is a college student longing to break free of family expectations when she stumbles into a project for eighty year old Abigail Boyles—transcribing the journals of Mercy Hayworth, a seventeenth-century victim of the Massachusetts witch trials. Almost immediately, Lauren finds herself drawn to this girl who lived and died four centuries ago. The strength of her affinity with Mercy forces Lauren to take a startling new look at her own life, including her relationships with the mysterious Abigail, her college roommate, and a young man named Raul. But on the way to discovering the candid truth, Lauren must earnestly ask if she is playing the role of helpless defendant or the misguided judge? Can she break free from her own perceptions and recognize who she really is?

In our high-pressure, success-oriented culture, readers will identify with Lauren’s struggle to forge her own identity separate from the plan her family designed for her. Offering intrigue, romance, and heartbreaking drama, this contemporary novel with a historical twist conveys the intense beauty that emerges when we see how our stories affect the lives of others.

Author: Susan Meissner

Review: "Very enlightening for someone who knows very little about the Salem witch trials. Also, thought-provoking as to how we so often pre-judge people (sometimes without realizing it), and that we should extend mercy to other as Christ has extended undeserved mercy to us. Captivating story beginning to end. I read it in two days." - Glenda Goldsmith

Leadership Development

2008-10-13T20:57:00.008-05:00

Each Monday morning I meet with someone for a time of mentoring on the subject of leadership. Recently we have been going through John Maxwell's, "Developing the Leader within You." I have probably read the book or watched the curriculum at least a half a dozen times. And every time I do, I learn something new.

This is most likely because each time I'm at a different place in my life and ministry. Today I was struck with one simple thought, "in leadership you must love people." I know that not everyone who loves people is naturally a good leader. However, I also don't any good leaders who don't sincerely love people.

I'm definitely not saying that I'm a good leader, but I do love being around people. When things aren't going so well, the natural tendency for many people is to run away and hide. I call for a party, the more the better. I draw strength from people and love the interaction .

People are what makes leading fun... and sometimes frustrating. But without people, you aren't really leading. So the more you value and love people, the greater your leadership will be.

Book Review: For Young Men Only

2008-10-09T14:58:00.004-05:00

Book: For Young Men Only
Authors: Jeff Feldhahn & Eric Rice with Shaunti Feldhahn
Buy it here: Amazon

Reviewed by Jake Ganote, age 20:

Do you wonder what girls are really thinking? Have you ever thought that a girl really liked you until you found out she just considered you really good friends? Is the search for the perfect girl leading you to believe that you are destined to be alone?

The answers to these questions and many more can be found in FYMO. This book was designed to take you behind the scenes of The World of Girl; to place you in her shoes; to see things from her perspective. After all, who knows girls better than girls? In fact, this book polled over 1,000 girls nationwide, seeking answers to many of the questions otherwise left unanswered. Here is your chance to get the inside scoop on girls from girls themselves.

Never has a book this interesting been written for young men. This was a book I looked forward to reading. A book that made me reflect on things past. This should be one book that young men are required to read before entering into any form of a dating relationship. Not only has it given me a new found respect for girls, but it also helps me become the prince charming all men want to be.

Often times we forget that men and women are wired differently and that makes the lines of communication that much more difficult. When you begin to understand the way a woman thinks, you are able to dive deeper into a relationship that satisfies the needs of you and your partner. I found that many of the ways I tried to gain respect were the ways I would want to be respected but not necessarily the way a woman feels
respected.

Chances are that if you are reading this review you already have an interest in developing a long lasting relationship with a girl. There would be no better way than to study God’s Word to see how he intended relationships and use this book to supplement the Word.

Two Roads

2008-10-02T14:48:00.000-05:00

Have you noticed that sometimes life is complicated? We want answers to such questions as: "Who should I marry?," "Where should I go to school?", "What house or car should I buy?", "What career path should I take?" And these are important questions that require serious thought and prayerful reflection. However, life really only offers two roads.

The first road is where you get to make all the decisions. And many people are talented, skilled and educated enough to make good decisions that lead to a fruitful and productive life. This isn't always the case for those on this road. Many find they simply can't make quality choices and never experience God's best.

The second road is traveled by those who understand that God is in control of their lives. They allow Him to make the decisions because He knows best. They have learned to trust Him and even when things don't seem to make sense, they follow Him anyway. This path is filled with excitement and joy. This journey is fulfilling, because God is working and doing great things through obedience. It's challenging to keep pace with what God is doing--but very rewarding. That's why Paul reminds us in Galatians to "keep in step with the Spirit" (Gal. 5:25).

Which road are you currently walking? If you are making most of the decisions in your life, why not take some time today to ask God to help you surrender your life to His plan. And if you have been trusting God for awhile now, ask Him to help you be more sensitive to His voice in your daily life.

Hold Firm

2008-10-01T00:36:00.001-05:00

I was recently reading in 2 Samuel 23 about David's three mighty men: Josheb-Basshebeth, Shammah, and Eleazar, and was struck by some great truths in Eleazar's life.

Eleazar was with David and 300 other troops as they battled the Philistines. The troops retreated in fear, but Eleazar "stood his ground and struck down the Philistines till his hand grew tired and froze to the sword". Every leader, like David, needs great men around them that will hold firm in a battle and continue to fight with them when everyone else seemingly abandons them.

Eleazar also fought with passion and determination. So much so that "his hand grew tired and froze to the sword." I would love for a doctor to explain what happens in an individual's body that causes such a reaction. They literally had to pry the sword from his hand. Throughout Scripture, the sword is often times a metaphor for the Word of God. And this passage challenged me to ask myself, "How long has it been since you have held onto the Word of God in the face of adversity until God brought the victory?" I mean the enemy can't even get the sword out of your hand.

Regardless of what doctors, accountants, family or friends say, you hold firm to God's word and His promises. When everyone around retreats, you stay in the fight.

In 2 Samuel 23: 10(b) it says, "The Lord brought about a great victory that day." I believe that if you will hold firmly to God's Word, store it in your heart, meditate on it, and profess it; God will bring about a great victory for you too.

Wedding on the Beach

2008-09-30T05:08:00.001-05:00

This past weekend I was in beautiful San Diego, CA for Shawn Cooper and Bethany Bushnell's wedding. It was truly an honor to be present as the two of them became one in the Lord. Shawn and Bethany met while attending Master's Commission. Shawn has attended Englewood most of his life and I have watched him grow up into a great young man.

It was evident to see God's hand in bringing them together. I always think it's awesome to see two different individuals living for God and following His plan, then finding one another. So many circumstances, so many opportunities, and so many things have to align themselves for such a union to come about. It's truly a "God Thing."

The wedding took place at sunset Saturday night on La Jolla Beach with about thirty close friends and family members. Some came as far as Iowa to show their support. On the trip I was able to meet many new friends and thoroughly enjoyed it. I even made my wife jealous by eating at Jack-In-the-Box.

And since I couldn't get back in time for services on Sunday, I caught up with my sister, who also lives in California, for her birthday. All in all, great weather, great time with great people.

Marginal Living: Re-Prioritizing Your Life

2008-09-29T13:26:00.010-05:00

Yesterday, we continued our series Marginal Living, with our student ministries pastor, Brad Baker, teaching on Re-Prioritizing Your Life. Here are some key points from the message:

Margin is the space between your current performance and your limits
As margins decrease, stress increases
Your time is limited; your time will be spent; someone will determine how your time gets spent
Psalm 90:12 "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Allowing God to Help Create Margin:

1. Realize your days are numbered by God - Job 14:5 "Man's days are determined; you have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed."

2. Prioritize accordingly- "Your priorities determine your capacity"

3. Make your time alone with God a priority- Matthew 6:33 "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

(This series is adapted from a message series originally created by Andy Stanley).

Back To School Prayer: Unusual Favor

2008-09-19T14:44:00.019-05:00

Braeden with his Kindergarten teacher

Well, Moms & Dads....I'm sure you've settled into your school routine by now: Early to bed, early to rise; homework; packing lunches; lots of papers in your kitchen; after school activities, etc.

If your children are in a new school, like ours are, then "back to school" for this year took on a whole new meaning. New routines, new friends, new teachers & administrators, new parents, new everything. I admit, it was a little overwhelming at first, just getting used to things, but it has gone very smoothly and we are very pleased with our schools. More importantly, our kids are happy, content, and at ease.

You know, when the boys were in our church's private Christian school, they were right in the same building with their Dad all day long. I never really prayed a "back to school prayer". I had an underlying confidence in our school, the staff, and the environment. Call it a comfort zone.

But for the first few weeks of school this year, it was a call to prayer over our kids. I prayed for a good start, for them to receive the right teachers, for them to make the right friends, for them to feel at home and comfortable. My most frequent prayer was, and still is, for them to have Unusual Favor. The kind that only comes from God. The kind that puts you in the right place at the right time. The kind that goes before you. The kind that surrounds you.

Ask God for Unusual Favor in your life and your family's lives today!

Timing Is Everything

2008-09-18T14:25:00.008-05:00

This past Sunday, as the Chiefs were preparing to play their home opener at Arrowhead Stadium, the boys heard a loud sound outside our house. They ran out to the back deck and saw four A-10 fighter jets flying overhead. They passed over our house several times for about 10 minutes before flying on over to Arrowhead. I later read that they timed their flyover just as David Cook concluded the national anthem. Too cool.

Joe ran inside and grabbed our digital camera to try to get a photo. Knowing the delay on our camera, I wasn't very hopeful that he would be successful. But he did it! He actually got all four A-10's right through a small opening in the trees. Some might say luck ...some might say GREAT TIMING.

You know, as Christians, we always want to be in God's timing. We should believe that "our steps are ordered". It's understanding that timing that causes us to struggle. When should we change jobs? When and how should we invest our money? When do we take a faith-risk? When do we have a tough conversation with someone? When, When, When?

In these situations and many more, timing is everything. In Acts chapter 1, Jesus appeared to the disciples and talked to them about timing. He said, "You don't get to know the time. Timing is the Father's business. What you'll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world."

Following God's lead is critical. Following our own thoughts and desires leaves the door open to major frustration. We must pray for God's timing in every area of our life so that we may see the bigger picture. With God's timing comes power, strength, and wisdom to do God's will.

Worship Changes

2008-09-12T17:50:00.023-05:00

We are excited to announce slight changes to our Sunday services. Beginning October 5th, the first service will begin at 8:45 am and will include a worship set that captures the heart of God through a mix of hymns and contemporary songs. You will hear the same practical and relevant messages you’ve come to expect, but now preceded by a slightly different worship set.

The 10:45 am service will be designed to reach both a younger audience and the unchurched. We will use all of the audio/video/& lighting tools we currently have available to create an environment that appeals more to today’s culture.

Both services will be prayerfully planned and implemented as God directs. My heart is to create environments that increase your worship experience. Scripture says, “God inhabits the praises of His people.” So when you enter into deeper worship, you multiply God’s manifest presence in your life.

Just as a missionary feels called to a specific type of people or region, there are some churches who God calls to focus on a select group of people or a certain demographic group. There is definitely nothing wrong with this. It's just not us, right now. The ultimate is doing what God tells you to do in reaching your community. The DNA of every church and pastor is different. Thank God for diversity!

I hope you will try both services and then choose the service that God directs you to.

Where Were You On 9/11?

2008-09-11T13:42:00.000-05:00

7 years ago today, Brian was in the shower preparing to go to work when I turned on the TV in our bedroom. The news anchors seemed a little confused as to the "breaking news" they were handed. The World Trade Center was on fire. No- wait- it was a plane crash. No one really knew for sure, but it was an unbelievable sight.

Just three years earlier, we had taken a group of young people to New York on a missions trip, and, as part of our sightseeing day, had gone to the top of the World Trade Center. Our oldest son, Joseph, was even with us. He was only 2 at the time. We have a great picture of the three of us on the observation deck (I was a nervous wreck--very windy).

The elevator ride to the top of WTC seemed supersonic--crazy fast. The view of NYC and the Statue of Liberty was amazing. It was a beautiful day. Brian and I are both glad we decided to take the group up.

As the rest of the morning of 9/11 unfolded, I was at home, glued to the news, mesmerized by the chain of events-- like everyone else.

In the years that followed, we were privileged to meet and have as a guest speaker to our church 9/11 survivor, Stanley Praimnath. I have never seen our church so still and quiet, as when Stanley told his story. It was incredible.

You can link to Stanley's story, order his book (which mentions Englewood!), or watch a video of his testimony from this previous post.

Stanley Praimnath

2008-09-11T13:16:00.007-05:00

Stanley Praimnath is a 9/11 World Trade Center survivor. He is a Christian and has been a guest speaker at our church twice. He has an unbeliebable testimony.

Watch a video of Stanley's testimony

Go to StanleyPraimnath.com

Order his book:

Marginal Living Intro Video

2008-09-10T14:42:00.006-05:00

Here's a short video that was shown to introduce the Marginal Living series:

Marginal Living- Week 1

2008-09-08T21:13:00.012-05:00

We got off to a great start this past weekend with the new series "Marginal Living." For those who may have missed it, we are talking about not living life so pushed to the limit and so close to the edge that we set ourselves up for failure. I believe Jesus wants us to live an "edgy" life, but not live "on the edge". He said, "I want you to have life, and life to the full."

The full life is found in creating margins in key areas of our lives: i.e. finances, morality, schedules and relationships. The first time I heard this concept was from an Andy Stanley message series entitled, "Take it to the Limit." He defined margin as "the extra, the reserve, the amount beyond what is needed." Just like books have margins, and highways have margins, we need margins in our lives to experience God's best.

These margins, or safety barriers, keep us from getting too far off course. I shared 3 consequences of decreased margins:

1. Stress increases

2. Our focus becomes "I" centered

3. Relationships suffer

This week, focus on what areas you need to create some margins in so you can stay on course.

Marginal Living

2008-09-05T21:01:00.002-05:00

This Sunday I can't wait to begin our new series entitled "Marginal Living." The picture above illustrates the way many live their lives, without margins. They don't have extra space on their left or on their right. So any small mistake, or any misstep and they find themselves swept away by the storms of life.

Granted, it's sometimes fun and exciting to live life on the edge. To push ourselves to the limit. To see how far we can expand our own personal boundaries. But it is impossible to live there. Some have tried and the result is always the same: the waves of life eventually overtake them.

I believe God has a better way to live. A place of abundance, blessing and increase await those who are willing to live as God directs, a life of margin. Let's explore "Marginal Living" together this Sunday.

Top 10 Ice Cream Places in KC: Stop #10- Poppy's

2008-09-02T12:50:00.009-05:00

We made the final stop on our summer ice cream tour with a trip to Poppy's in Lee's Summit. Poppy's used to be called Doc's, which used to be located off Blue Ridge Blvd. in Raytown.

We all had concretes that tasted great. It was just 3 of us this time, as Joe went to the Truman v. Ray-Pec football game with a friend. He's only 12 and already wanting to ditch Mom & Dad on Friday night. Sigh. Next he will want to move his room to the basement.

Talked to a couple of retired teachers as we ate outside. Everywhere we go the people that we (Brian) meet want to talk about the Indep. School District and the new schools. Jim Hinson is the rock star of Jackson County.

We had a great summer visiting all these cool spots. I'll rank them for you soon. Someone has already suggested a tour of the Top 10 mexican restaurants in KC. I'm all over that!

Communication

2008-08-25T10:23:00.000-05:00

Last week I shared some thoughts on communication in our weekly staff meeting. It doesn't matter if your a pastor, spouse, employee or friend; you will need to continue to work on your communication skills to be successful. Relationships of any kind are either enhanced or strained by communication.

All communication can be immediately improved by being a good listener. This is undoubtedly the most important component in communication. This skill can be augmented by making simple eye contact. This helps you focus and tells the other person speaking that their words are important.

Another often overlooked component in communication is being sensitive to how we talk to one another. Verbal and non-verbal communication is critical. How we present ourselves, our tone of voice, and our timing are all important things to consider when sharing information.

Some questions that you could ask yourself every time you desire to share information are: "How should the information be conveyed? Should it be done in person? Will a text message or email be appropriate? Is a letter or phone call required for proper communication to occur? Maybe, the information is too weighty or sensitive; so should it be done in person?"

It's possible that you have the right information, and share it at the right time with the right attitude, but use the wrong method, thereby creating unnecessary frustration.

Communication is an area we all need to work on. Evaluate your effectiveness in your relationships by examining your communication.

5 Things Kids Love About Camp

2008-08-21T00:31:00.001-05:00

Yes, school has started for most people, but just about 2 weeks ago, our church kids returned from another summer camp at Dry Gulch USA in Oklahoma. This camp is so popular, we start applying in January & early February just to get the week we want. And sometimes we still don't get it! I asked our Children's Pastor, Amy Bales, to list 5 things the kids love about camp. So here they are:

5. The gift shop....they have everything you could ever imagine!!

4. The AWESOME food... and we can eat as much as we want!!!!!

3. General Roy's laugh... you will totally understand if you have heard it!

2. The 30+ activities that you do ALL day long!!!

1. Learning more about Jesus and how to take Him on your "Journey- called life"!!!

Truly, camp is an awesome place for kids to develop self esteem and confidence in Christ, learn personal responsibility & how to function without Mom & Dad, grow in their relationship with the Lord, and gain lifetime friendships. All in a wonderful Christian environment while having amazing fun. Do your kids a favor and send them to camp next year. They deserve it!

Top 10 Ice Cream Places in KC: Stop #9- The Sweet Guy

2008-08-19T23:56:00.014-05:00

Stop #9 on our summer ice cream places tour took us to The Sweet Guy, in Parkville, Mo. One of the side benefits of taking this tour was just getting to some places in KC that we've never been to before. I have never been to downtown Parkville. It's a interesting place, with lots of cute shops and restaurants. I'd like to go back and try dinner at Frank's. Looked good!

The gelato was expensive, but good. I think I'm starting to like gelato better than regular ice cream (not good for the budget). It was a nice evening, so we ate our gelato right on Main St. in a little courtyard. Afterwards, we drove up around Park University. Brian stopped at the old gym and took the boys in to see where he used to come up from Springfield with the CBC basketball team and play against Park.

And that's when it happened. Brian realized he didn't have his cell phone. The precious Blackberry. His world. His everything. His life. His e-god. The object that I have threatened (in my own mind) to throw out of our moving vehicle many, many times. :-)

Now it was Go Time. Go back and retrace our steps through downtown Parkville. Go to the gelato place (nope). Go to the courtyard (nope). Go to where we parked (nope). Go call the restaurant where we ate. Nope. Nothing.

So I called his number.......and someone actually answered! Unbelievable. His phone had "journeyed" about a 1/2 mile or so, but we tracked it down and got it back (bummer). Brian had left it in the courtyard and some girl picked it up. Our boys sure had a good laugh out of all this adventure.

If you're ever in Parkville, leave your cell phone in the car and enjoy some quiet time and gelato from The Sweet Guy.

Wild Goose Chase by Mark Batterson

2008-08-19T22:18:00.014-05:00

Mark Batterson is at it again. He has written another inspiring, motivating, and challenging book. If you liked In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day, then you will love Wild Goose Chase. It's a quick and easy read, full of quotes and concepts just waiting to be underscored. But most of all, Wild Goose Chase shows us the incredible adventure that is our past, present, and future with God. The chapter on Sometimes It Takes A Shipwreck really resonated with me. I read it twice!

Learn more about Wild Goose Chase and read a sample chapter at www.chasethegoose.com.

Purchase Wild Goose Chase here.

Here is a summary of the book from the introduction:

"Most of us have no idea where we’re going most of the time. Perfect. Celtic Christians had a name for the Holy Spirit–An Geadh-Glas, or ‘the Wild Goose.’ The name hints at mystery. Much like a wild goose, the Spirit of God cannot be tracked or tamed. An element of danger, an air of unpredictability surround Him. And while the name may sound a little sacrilegious, I cannot think of a better description of what it’s like to follow the Spirit through life. I think the Celtic Christians were on to something….Most of us will have no idea where we are going most of the time. And I know that is unsettling. But circumstantial uncertainty also goes by another name: Adventure.”

Mark Batterson is the lead pastor of Washington, DC’s National Community Church, widely recognized as one of America’s most innovative churches. NCC meets in movie theaters at metro stops throughout the city, as well as in a church-owned coffee house near Union Station. More than seventy percent of NCC’ers are single twentysomethings who live or work on Capitol Hill. Mark is the author of the best-selling In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day and a widely read blogger (www.markbatterson.com). He lives on Capitol Hill with his wife, Lora, and their three children.

Top 10 Ice Cream Places in KC: Stop #8- Clinton's

2008-08-19T15:17:00.004-05:00

We stuck close to home for our Top 10 #8 visit: Clinton's Soda Fountain on the Independence Square. Harry T. used to hang out there so it has some historical significance (as historical as ice cream places can get, I guess).

The boys sat at the counter and ordered....cream sodas. They both said it was the best soda they've ever had. I had to taste it, and they were right. Next time you're on the square, stop in at Clinton's, sit down at the counter, and order a cream soda. It's not out of a can or bottle but fresh out of the fountain. I'll guarantee you'll totally love it.

New York, New York- part 2

2008-08-19T12:45:00.004-05:00

This summer, my son and I took a trip to New York. Read part 1 here.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame was unforgettable if you are a baseball fan. Much too much to write about here, but one quick story. God gave us wonderful favor with one of the curators of the "Hall". We had heard that the new Buck O'Neil statue was being unveiled sometime that week, and then learned we would miss it by one day. Well, since we were from KC they had pity on us and took us downstairs into the basement of the museum (artifacts and stuff everywhere--incredible!). There we got to see the statue before it was displayed. What a special moment.

Drove to Poughkeepsie, NY that night so we could tour West Point Military Academy on Friday. For a history buff like me, West Point was beyond words. The campus is beautiful and we were blessed to see a graduating class ceremony.

Friday night we were at Shea Stadium in Queens, NY to see our Cardinals lose to the Mets. If you're keeping score at home, I've attended 3 Cardinal games this year and they have lost all 3. Maybe I should just stay away. The next day we headed back to Philadelphia, flew to St. Louis, and drove to KC. Whew. Good thing we had a guest speaker the next morning!

I share these moments with you not to boast or brag. But to allow you to see that God is at the center of our family, and He can be the center of yours too. We work hard at being a Christ-centered family and are far from perfect. But I hope you are blessed by these little glimpses into our family life. Here are some more pictures:

Yankee Hall of Famer Yogi Berra signing autographs in Cooperstown

Buck O'Neil statue in storage, waiting to be revealed

Joe & I playing catch in Cooperstown. A great father/son moment.

West Point cadets

Shea Stadium with the new stadium in background

Top 10 Ice Cream Places in KC: Stop #7- Waldo Pizza

2008-08-14T01:33:00.001-05:00

Okay, first let's address the obvious: Why is a pizza place on our Top 10 Ice Cream list??

Because Waldo Pizza carries Ted Drewes' Frozen Custard from St. Louis!!

You have to understand that this is the most awesome custard ever. Made even more awesome if eaten late on a warm summer night after attending a Cardinals game.

Ted Drewes is a tradition for me. Growing up in St. Louis, I can remember going to Ted Drewes for the first time. My Dad said, "Get in the car everybody. I've got a surprise." It seemed like we drove forever. I don't know what I ordered that first time, but I was amazed as they handed me the custard upside down. I've been hooked on Ted Drewes ever since and now I've got Brian and the boys hooked. TD's is a must stop when we are in St. Louis any time of the year.

So...if you want to taste some TD's right here in KC, head to Waldo Pizza. Call ahead to make sure they have a current shipment in stock. They only carry a few basic flavors, but you'll love it! (Ex.- today they had vanilla, choc., rasp., & Oreo)

Jason Allen of LifeConnection Church

2008-08-13T11:13:00.007-05:00

I am excited to have my friend Jason Allen in our service tonight at 7:00 pm. He is the pastor of a brand new church called LifeConnection Church here in Independence. Jason and I met several months ago through a God- kind of encounter at one of my favorites places, Starbucks.

Since then, we have been meeting and having regular dialogue on how to reach our city for Christ. Because of his heart for the lost and willingness to take great risk, I felt like we shared similar desires and callings. We have also been having talks about a large city outreach this coming spring. More info. on that later this year.

I ask that you pray for Jason, his wife Carrie, and the entire team at LifeConnection. It takes many churches uniting to reach a city. Fighting, jealousy, and being territorial have no place in God's kingdom.

See you all tonight!

--You can keep up with Jason through his blog here.

New York, New York- Part 1

2008-08-10T21:38:00.000-05:00

I want to share a little with you about a trip my son Joseph and I took to the East coast this summer; a sort of pre-teen pilgrimage. I got the idea from Dr. Dobson, of Focus on the Family. We had a great time building memories together and learning lessons from life, each other, and some Dobson teaching CDs.

We had a mad itinerary. On Monday, we drove to St. Louis to fly to Philadelphia. Tuesday we went to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall before driving to New York City. We quickly drove through Manhattan and headed for Long Island. That night, I spoke at Freedom Chapel for my good friend, Pastor Jimmy Jack. You can read more about that here.

Wednesday we took in a Yankees game. We toured Monument Park before the game, which was unbelievable. Even more unbelievable was the weather. It was suppose to rain on us. The radar on my phone showed rain to the west, north and east of us; but it never rained at Yankee Stadium!

After the game we drove to Cooperstown, NY, stopping for gas in Orange County, NY. By complete accident, we looked over and saw the new Orange County Choppers facility. We went over and checked out some cool choppers. It's awesome. Worth the time.

Arrived at Cooperstown late and decided to go by the Hall of Fame Museum to get our bearings for the next day. Long story short, Joe got Hall of Famer, Dave Winfield's autograph. He was incredibly nice. What a thrill.

I'll share the rest of the trip in Part 2. Meanwhile, here are some pictures:

Remember the Kansas City CowParade in 2001? Well NYC had something similar in honor of the All-Star Game. They had Statue of Libertys all throughout the city designed with each MLB team theme. It's not a clear picture, but we just happened to pass by the Royals statue.

Monument Park, Yankee Stadium

Orange County Choppers

NY Football Giants Chopper

Dave Winfield

The Champion In You

2008-08-06T09:33:00.001-05:00

You are a champion. That's right. You may not think so or understand, but you are. When I was a kid, my mom had a sign hanging up in our house that said, "You're special, because God doesn't make junk."

The entire premise for this up-coming message series comes from the truth that God has made you a champion and placed greatness in you. Phil. 2: 12-13 says "Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose."

God continues to work in you and your responsibility is to work it out. We will identify the key components of the champion that God has put in all of us, and learn how to release those into our daily lives. You won't want to miss a single message. Be at Englewood Ministries starting Sunday, Aug. 10 and learn how to be the champion you were created to be!

Adventure Oasis

2008-08-05T11:03:00.004-05:00

Hey, just a reminder that we've rented out the entire facility of Adventure Oasis water park this Sunday night, August 10 from 8:30-10:30pm. Cost is $3.00 per person, payable at the door (cash or check).

Come on out and enjoy one last summer Sunday night before school starts. Invite anybody you want--friends, family, etc. Concession stand will be open. See you there!

Dry Gulch Kids Camp

2008-08-04T11:41:00.000-05:00

Sunday, another group of kids and sponsors departed for Oklahoma. The destination: Dry Gulch, U.S.A., one of the best (if not the best!) kids camp in the entire nation. This was our biggest group ever, with 74 kids and 7 sponsors. Kids/sponsors were from both Englewood Ministries and Turning Point Church.

Dry Gulch is unmatched in facilities, staff, and activities. The evening chapel services are well planned and creative times of spiritual growth. Our son always comes home loving the theme song! This year's theme is "An Unforgettable Journey". Dry Gulch is a lesson in ministry excellence.

Brian and I never went to a youth or kids camp growing up. But we realize, without a doubt, that a camp-type, away from home experience is such an important part of the spiritual development of a student. Later this week, I'll blog about the benefits of camp.

Check out this highlight video to see a little bit of what our kids will be experiencing this week:

5 Principles of Passion

2008-07-31T20:14:00.000-05:00

These 5 Principles of Passion are taken from a message called "Passion: The X-Factor" by Doug Reed. Find out more about Doug Reed through his blog.

Solitude/Privacy- Passion grows in the dark; turn off the voices.
Self Encouragement- How you face the injustices of life will determine your passion. I Sam. 30; Heb. 3:13. Passionate people have courage to give away.
Sacrifice- Personal cost will determine personal passion. Gal. 2:20
Simplicity- Passionate people have a target; focus; singular vision. Passion dies when not attached to vision.
Spiritual Life- Passion also dies when not linked to a vibrant spiritual life. "I am the vine..."

Doug Reed Ministries

2008-07-31T17:03:00.000-05:00

We had a special guest Sunday, Doug Reed, who I know from back in my high school days. We both came out of the same youth ministry, and both went on to attend Central Bible College after graduating. Now, we are both in ministry in the KC area. Weird!

Doug and his wife Jeanne have an awesome passion to see people grow in their relationship with Christ. Doug speaks across the nation, and internationally through his missions organization, Partnership International. He also has a great teaching blog: check it out.

This message was very timely and welcome for our church. I haven't gotten a copy yet, but I plan to do so and listen to it again.

Here are my takeaways from Doug's message on "Passion: The X-Factor"...

"...you don't know how heavy sin is until it's gone."

"little skills + great passion is greater than big skills + little passion"

"passion is the attractive quality of your faith"

It's somewhat surreal listening to someone from your high school days speak; I know how far God's brought both of us.

5 Principles of Passion

Freedom Chapel- Long Island, NY

2008-07-31T10:08:00.000-05:00

My son Joseph and I spent a few days in the New York City area last week. While there, I had the privilege of preaching God's Word at Freedom Chapel in Amityville, NY (Long Island) for my good friend Jimmy Jack. The service and response time went very well.

Jimmy has done a fantastic job reaching people for Christ all over New York City. And this has been his heart from the moment he came to the Lord. I don't know very many people who are more authentic and genuine in their relationship with Christ than Jimmy and his wife Miriam.

Jimmy grew up as the youngest of nine children in a household devastated by drug abuse, alcohol and violence. After graduating from Brooklyn Teen Challenge in 1985, he went to Central Bible College in 1986 and graduated in 1989. That's where I met Jimmy. We played on the CBC Spartans Basketball team together for two seasons. We hooped it up in our short shorts! Jimmy was a power forward, quick scorer & rebounder. He was the master of the finger roll lay in! Jennifer got to know Miriam, as they had several classes together on campus and drove to the away games together. Good times.

The Lord led Jimmy and Miriam to establish a Teen Challenge coffeehouse outreach on Long Island, reaching those whose lives had been ravished by drugs and alcohol. This became Long Island Teen Challenge. Then in 1992, he pioneered Freedom Chapel Assembly of God. Today, both ministries are thriving under his leadership.

I encourage you to get Jimmy's new book and to pray for the new building program that they are in. Thanks, Jimmy, for the opportunity-- I had a wonderful time and God blessed greatly!

Extreme School Makeover- Day 2

2008-07-27T21:34:00.000-05:00

Click here for Day #1 info. & pictures

Today I joined with volunteers from the community as we worked at Van Horn for Day 2 of the Extreme School Makeover. Van Horn is looking much better. I worked on demolition and moving furniture. Some of the people that I worked with were Marcus Miller, Jerry Snelling, and Ryan Bales. Pastor Brad Oyler has been at Van Horn all week and is doing an outstanding job.

The Independence School District is very pleased with the turnout of volunteers and the way things are shaping up. A big thank you to Pastor Brad and all the Englewood people who worked very hard, very long, in very hot conditions. Great job!

Day 2 pics:

Extreme School Makeover- Day 1

2008-07-26T20:55:00.000-05:00

By all accounts, Day #1 of the Independence School District's Extreme School Makeover community project was a huge success. Englewood Ministries was assigned to Van Horn High School. Our own Pastor Brad Oyler is leading the Van Horn project. There were around 150 volunteers from our church and over 400 total at Van Horn, including Sen. Victor Callahan and Independence City Councilmember for District #1, Marcie Gragg.

Click here to watch the KMBC-9 report

Here are some pics:

New York Dream Center

2008-07-26T00:48:00.000-05:00

The Church That Never Sleeps Meets The City That Never Sleeps!

Pastor Matthew Barnett and the L.A. Dream Center are launching a second location in New York City. Grand Opening services are Monday, August 11-2008. Joyce Meyer will be the guest speaker at the American Airlines Theater in Times Square.

We've taken several missions trips to the New York area over the years. In fact, the first trip Brian & I took as youth pastors was to help a church plant in that area. I'll never forget the young people we took (now adults!) and how God moved in our lives that week. You know, most of the time, missions trips seem to grow the people on the trips more than help the church or ministry host. That's kinda just the way it works. I believe God is pleased both ways. All that being said, maybe we'll get a chance to take another team to NY one of these days. It's an amazing experience.

Here is a great video clip of Pastor Matthew talking about being a "Risk-Taker" and how God brought about the opportunity for the NY Dream Center:

Top 10 Ice Cream Places in KC: Stop #6- Tropical Sno

2008-07-25T00:47:00.001-05:00

We found one! We found a Tropical Sno on 7 Hwy. in Blue Springs. Okay, so it's not ice cream, but it's our list :) At least it's ice. This is a simple spot, with simple flavors and it's one of our all-time favorites. The portions are great and the prices are even better.

Gotta love their sign too:

New Ricardo CD- "Oh What A God"

2008-07-24T16:42:00.000-05:00

Hey, just a heads up that our friend, Ricardo Sanchez, has just released a new CD. Ricardo is the worship leader for Pastor Jentezen Franklin at Free Chapel in Gainesville, GA. Check it out:

Forward Conference in Atlanta

2008-07-23T15:31:00.018-05:00

Tonight at church, our youth pastor, Brad Baker, spoke to us on commitment and shared about the Drive Youth Ministries trip to the Forward Conference in Atlanta, Ga. It was an awesome service and it was so great to hear what God is doing in the lives of our young people. Here's a summary of the conference that Pastor Brad shared with us shortly after returning from Atlanta:

Forward '08 was probably the best big event like this we've ever been to. Many times in big arenas w/thousands of people it can seem kind of impersonal, and difficult for personal connection or impact. That was definitely not the case this year.

The theme of the conference was basically to have a personal encounter with God so that you can live out your purpose and impact and bring life-change to the world around you. It's pretty cool because we're in a series right now in youth called Encounter that goes right along with the theme of the weekend.

We stayed in houses this year which made it tons more convenient to hang out and chill with each other. Each night after the services we had a time of reflection back at the houses and allowed our group to share what God had done in their life during the service. It was awesome to hear how each student personalized the messages and the worship times and to hear what was being stirred in their hearts. It wasn't the norm where students talked about their struggles and how God set them free (not that that's a bad thing)...but this weekend it was more outward focused...it seems that the students are starting to get it...that God changes them so that then they can go and change their world. --Pastor Brad Baker

Top 10 Ice Cream Places in KC: Stop #5- Murray's

2008-07-22T23:55:00.011-05:00

Recently, we checked out Murray's Ice Cream in Westport. Really good. It is generally regarded as the best in KC. The ice cream is homemade. I ordered a "Brown Cow" because it reminded me of my grandmother; she used to make them all the time. Do you know the difference between a root beer float and a brown cow?? I found out at Murray's.

We loved Murray's and will definitely go back. Interesting fact: they weighed the ice cream before charging us. Yes, it is priced by the ounce. Different, but good!

Sports: The Building & Revealing of Character

2008-07-19T08:54:00.009-05:00

Opening cermony

This has been a hectic week for the Ross family. Joseph has been participating in the regional USSSA Little League World Series at 3 and 2 Park in Lenexa, KS. So we've been traveling across town everyday at least once to see the Swingbuilder Saints play their final tournament of the season. Things didn't turn out the way we had hoped, but we always enjoy watching the games.

Athletics have played a big part in my life and many of the life disciplines I have learned have come through sports. So when Joseph starting playing competitive baseball this year, not only did we get into it, but looked forward to what he would learn through playing.

I had a coach one time say, "Sports doesn't build character, it reveals it." Actually I think its both. If you are teachable, you will notice that participating in sports puts you in many life-learning situations. How you respond and what decisions you make will help build your character. But, it also reveals it.

With the pressure of performing well and winning, emotions can get involved. Really involved. It's during these times that character is revealed. These are some of the best learning moments for kids (and parents!).

George Barna, in his book, Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions, says that one of the best ways for a postmodern generation to learn is in these real life shared moments. Formal teaching is o.k., but pointing out life lessons while engaged in activity sometimes has the biggest impact. I know our children don't always appreciate it. And it takes a degree of discernment to know the right moment for sharing/teaching. But I have noticed that they also recall those lessons better than others.

Our teaching moments always come after practices and games in the car ride home. We discuss attitudes, actions & non-actions, strategy, successes, failures, wins, losses...they all get dissected. I love these moments. I pray that God will continue to give me wisdom as a father, and I look forward to more character building moments --both the enjoyable and the difficult.

base hit vs. Hi-Boy

Me and Chuck

2008-07-15T22:02:00.000-05:00

Chuck E. Cheese, that is. What we won't do for our kids. A few weeks ago we went to the kid friendly pizza play place for a birthday party. Of course we had a great time with cake, presents, fellowship and lots of games. Birthdays are great opportunities to build memories for our children.

But they are also wonderful ways to celebrate kids. Think about it. When you were a kid and it was your birthday, you felt special all day long. The attention, gifts and the party all focused on you. And that's just the way it should be. Outside of Jesus Christ, children are the gresatest gifts God has given us. Don't forget today to make a child feel special. Maybe do a little hanging out with Chuck.

Branson Getaway

2008-07-13T22:03:00.000-05:00

We took a little break last week and stayed in the only hotel in America that doesn't have internet connection! Maybe it was God's plan. I don't know, but here's a litte bit about our getaway.

For 15 years now, my wife's family has been gathering for a family reunion we call the "Ash Bash" (Jen's family name). We have done a lot of incredible things together. We have gone to Walt Disney World and Disneyland. We traveled to Washington D. C. and Williamsburg one year. And last year we went to Hawaii (dream come true). Thanks grandpa & grandma!

It's been fun watching all the nephews and nieces grow up and catching up on all the family news. Many of them we see only two or three times a year. No matter where we go, the greatest times are being able to stay involved in the lives of our extended family. We love all of them so much.

This year we went to Branson, MO and did the entire Branson thing (Silver Dollar City, mini-golf, outlet shopping, traffic, an evening show, and swimming). Developing memories, sharing time together, and connecting with loved ones is the best part of the "Ash Bash."

Here are some pictures: