on Father's Day

Father's Day for 2016 is over, and for many fathers across the country they were blessed with handmade cards from their children, breakfast in bed, several hugs and kisses, and even some dads received some cool new "toys" to play with. But, it is important as Father's Day reminds us every year to look at theologically the role that "fathers" play in our lives. So, let's dive in!
1) God is labeled as our Heavenly Father.
Many times in the scriptures God is referred to as our Father. This is important because many people growing up having their earthly fathers either absent or repeatedly disappointing them. The good news is God is the Father that always shows up, always keeps his promises, and never disappoints. All earthly fathers are important, and they are intended to point their families to know and grow closer to their Heavenly Father.

One of the most clear examples of God being our Heavenly Father is found in the opening line of the Lord's prayer. "Our Father who art in Heaven. . ." While sin mars ability to be fully connected with our Heavenly father the day is coming when sin will be no more and we are once again united with Him. God is the perfect Father, and we are all His children. While the Father label is often attributed to God, I do want to say that we serve a God who is far greater than any one label or title. The label mother is used far less than father is used to describe God and is not found in the scriptures (Important note). But, God does tenderly care for the children and people of this earth in similar ways that mothers care for their young ones. Let me conclude this point by saying: I won't refer to God our Mother, but I do recognize that God is greater than just a male pronoun that we so often apply.

2) Fathers teach how to be strong, honest, loving, and humble.
As a father myself I realize the amount of teaching moments at this point in my daughter's and soon to be son's life are immense. However, I fully realize there will come a day when I blink and realize not that my teaching is ever finished but rather it has taken on a different form/style. So, some of the best lessons come from my father come from the word of God.
1) Christians should be strong: (Behold I am sending you out amongst the wolves, be wise as serpents but innocent as doves.) This world is very hard and becoming increasingly more challenging. Teach your children or children you are close to how to be strong and stand up for their beliefs and the word of God.
2) Honest (Thou shall not bear false witness against thy neighbor) One of the best ways to rock this world for Jesus Christ is for all believers to be 100% honest and genuine in the good and bad moments of life.
3) Loving (Love one another as I have loved you) Unconditional love is one of the biggest themes in the entire Bible. Learn how to love people in all circumstances.
4) Humble/Meek (Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth) Martin Luther King Jr. said this amazing quote that everyone can be great because everyone can serve someone else. Serving others takes many forms, and I hope you begin praying, "God bring me someone who I can serve today." But, one piece of advice I was given, "Never be too proud to say, 'I love you,' 'I'm sorry,' 'I forgive you'."

on Church Attendance

We're living in interesting times. I'm sure no one doubts that assessment, information is transmitted much faster, people are living longer, life has become much more convenient (indoor plumbing, electricity, and the list could go on), but as we see life get in some ways easier we look around our churches Sunday mornings and notice a lot of empty pews. There is a lot going on with church attendance. The number of books being written is numerous, and it is an issue that is at the forefront in almost every area of the entire country. Here are a few things to consider:

1) A remnant is always promised.
The American church's success is never promised in the scriptures. The book of Revelation discusses a remnant that will remain, but the American church does not appear there. Should that make us anxious? I don't think so, because we serve a God who always keeps His promises, is always good, and who has been faithful time and time again.

We need to adapt a mind set, where we understand that Jesus is the only eternal reality in this world. Our church is often filled with great memories, does wonderful mission to the community and to the world, many times has vibrant, effective worship, but our church only serves as a means to point people to Jesus. The church even though it has been persecuted, attacked, and many have sought to destroy it has persevered! God is good!

2) Focus more on evangelism than social justice issues.
The church is not the government, and I'm really glad it is not! The government makes laws and changes that affect our society, and while it is important for churches to establish and adapt policies that help their parishioners understand and live into societal changes. The church has to be about more than just debates, squabbles, and people disagreeing on hot button societal issues. The church needs to get back to its lost enthusiasm of reaching the lost, feeding the hungry, and proclaiming the kingdom.

These issues need to be addressed, but they need to be addressed in a spirit of love and grace with the Bible as the final authority. Churches that are thriving are ones that have found a good balance of learning how to live into and discern social justice issues while never losing sight of the great commission. Jesus never told us to resolve all societal issues in the church, but He did tell us to go and make disciples.

3) A spirit of love and grace need to rule the day.
People primarily don't go to church to hear good preaching or fantastic music. While those help bringing people in, you can always hear great preaching Sunday morning on the TV, pop in a Chris Tomlin CD and hear some wonderful music, so they aren't the main factors. Churches that are filled with people who desire friendship are kind and loving are ones that have attracted and continue to grow. I firmly believe that church members are either agents for or against a spirit of love and grace in their community. So, the question I have is are you for or against that culture in your own church? 

on the Cincinnati Zoo

I will say I'm thrilled I spelled Cincinnati right on the first try. This is a big story that has been dominating headlines for the past four days. Animal Rights advocates want the woman charged and justice for Harambe. Folks on the right are saying for all to relax because the boy is okay, and there are many people in the middle who can see the tension that this whole situation has created. Part of the beauty of the body of Christ is that we can agree to disagree and still be in fellowship with each other. Here are a few things to consider in this situation.

1) There were no great alternatives to what the zoo did.
For people who disagree with the zoo's decision, and I will say this you have every right to do so, it was a lose/lose situation. It is tragic that a beautiful creature was shot and killed, and I know many who have frequented the zoo have fond memories watching Harambe the gorilla. I would stop the finger pointing, stop the name calling, and mourn for this great creature, as I know God does for all of His beautiful creation when a prized member dies. The question I kept considering was, "If my child or one of my family members was down there with the gorilla, what would I want to happen?" It's not an easy answer, and I think the zoo made a tough but right decision.

2) Don't condemn the poor mother.
We are really good in our society at condemning people, casting shame on them, and belittling the failure and mistakes other people make. However, we are told not to judge others especially if our life is riddled with sin, failures, and mistakes. In John 8:1-11 Jesus meets a group of religious leaders who want him to throw the first stone to stone this adulterous woman. This woman had made many mistakes in her life, had been condemned verbally many times, and now is about to be physically destroyed, but Jesus doesn't do that. He shows us in just a few sentences the power of forgiveness. The power of reaching people where they're at in their shortcomings and offering them hope and healing instead of more condemnation.

I have heard all sorts of awful things about this mother's parenting skills in the last four days. Trust me if you haven't people can be very nasty. But, I've heard very few people say that we as followers of Jesus should pray for her and her family during these days? The word forgive has rarely been used, and I think that stems from our culture of condemnation. Learn how to rise above it.

3) See the theology behind this situation.
All life is sacred to God, but human life more so. I know that idea and thought can make some people mad and I get this from many places in Genesis 1:27 it reads that God created humanity in his own image. The list can go on and on. But, we as a culture need to learn from this. We need to address strong feelings and ask why are really feeling this way on either side of the issue. This world is not how it is supposed to be, the fact that a beautiful gorilla lost his life proves that, but we have the hope and the knowledge that God's promises are sure. God is calling His church. Learn to be counter-cultural and how you discuss the Cincinnati Zoo in the next few days.

on Woodlawn

Last night in youth group we were blessed to watch the Pure Flix movie, "Woodlawn." This movie highlights the true story of racial tension at racially integrated, Woodlawn High school. The movie begins with many moments of high tension as both white and black students were very verbal about their disapproval of their school being a place where both black and white students could come to learn. Things aren't much better for the football team as team mates argue, quarrel, scream, and fight each other Coach Gerelds sees his team spinning out of control. He fears this may be the end of his time as coach at Woodlawn High if something can't be done. As almost a gift from God, Hank, an enthusiastic sport's chaplain asks the coach to speak to the team about Jesus. Seeing he has nothing to lose coach Gerelds reluctantly agrees. He is amazed at his team's response over Hank's message of love and acceptance. The movie continues with the rise of Woodlawn's star running back, Touchdown Tony Nathan, and it serves as a reminder that Jesus can make a huge difference if we truly make room for him. If you enjoy football/sports movie it is a really enjoyable flick, fairly well acted, and has a pretty entertaining story line.

Here are a few take aways from the flick....
1) We don't always win with Jesus.
It is true with Jesus we have beaten death and the forces of wickedness, but sometimes in this life time we do lose. Woodlawn played their rival school, Banks, for the division title twice in the movie, and I won't spoil too much but early on Tony's junior season they did lose. One big disservice Christian movies can do is to paint a reality that with Jesus we win all of our earthly battles. We as Christians do win some but not all. God doesn't call us to be winners as Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 4:7 that he has fought the good fight, finished the course, and kept the faith. We are called to be faithful.

2) Live for Jesus and people will notice.
Coach Gerelds in the movie was very skeptical about Hank and his message to the team. He was very skeptical about his team's response, and he just had doubts that anyone in Birmingham, AL could relate and interact well with someone of the opposite skin color. He was amazed at how his team began supporting each other, looking out for each other, and how well they began playing. Coach Gerelds came to know Jesus not because of some compelling preacher, but he came to know Jesus because other people lived out their faith in real and powerful ways.

3) Racism is still alive today.
The sad truth is we live in a world where we don't do very well with people who are different than us. Most of our friends, colleagues, and acquaintances are all people just like us. I'm not saying that in and of itself is a terrible thing. But, I wonder, "Are we missing out on all the fullness and richness of life God has to offer if we only associate with people just like us?" I don't fully know how to answer that, but I know the Kingdom of Heaven is going to be filled with many beautiful people from all over the world, and many of them will not look like white Americans.

Racism takes many forms. Some of those forms are overt and some are subtle. But, I encourage you to recognize it and to pray that God would use you to help put a stop to it. Allow your home, your place of work, and your church to be a place where all feel welcome. Be open and willing for God to use you in might ways, and you will be surprised what he is capable of doing.

on Changing the World

As we embark on our First Change the World Day this Saturday May 14th, it is important to really grasp the implications of what we as Christians are called to do in the grand scheme of the Great Commission. So, as we dive into this incredible idea of changing the world, let's strive not to forget a few important things.
1) Jesus has already forever changed the world. John 1:14, "The word became flesh and dwelt among us."
  Let's face it the greatest thing ever to happen to this world is Jesus. Nothing better has come before, and I will remind you nothing better is coming. As you read this I really hope that isn't a let down, but rather an incredible joy that the God of the universe is so invested and so loves this world that He wanted to be a part of it. All of our service, all of our energy, all of our missions while great and many times very meaningful will fail in comparison to Jesus entering into, speaking truth into, and saving the world.
  The goal is for you to read this and not to say, "Oh, why should I do mission if what I do fails in comparison. . ." But, rather for you to say, "God has called me to an incredible role in his story of bringing the entire world into a loving, saving relationship with him, and I accept this role humbly."
2) We should never divorce the mission from Jesus.
  This area is really tricky. I will be the first to tell you that people believe many different ideas about this. I don't remember if you recall the homeless man who walked into Chic-Fil-A a few months ago asked for a meal and the employee brought the owner out to meet the man, the owner prayed for the man, and then gave him his dinner. Should the owner have given the man the meal and not prayed? Was the owner right in praying with the man first? There are many questions to consider here, and my opinions on this are still evolving. However, here is what I can tell you.
  1) Be and very patient with people. We rarely know someone's entire story, people are very hesitant to let you into their struggles and pain. My best advice be kind, be patient, and know that God uses your efforts even if it doesn't seem so.
  2) Be inviting with Jesus, but be willing and open to hearing no.
  It is so powerful to ask to pray with people, to ask to tell people about Jesus, but my advice is to always give them a choice. Be okay and be comfortable if someone says no. God will continue to work that person in many, many ways long after you've gone. Be good, be faithful, be inviting, but most importantly be humble and understand that God saves people not us.

3) Allow service to become your energy.
  One of the big problems today is that many of us see serving the Lord and living our faith as a burden. Nehimiah 8:10 reminds us that the joy of the Lord is our strength. One of the big things I see missing in many of us, now I didn't say all of us, but it is joy and energy. We seem tired, over busy, over worked, and for many of us it seems to be going through the motions. My advice, simplify your life, take on less, say no more, and make it a really amazing experience when you say yes. God can use you, no matter what, but our witness is most effective when we are energized, joyful, and prepared rather than tired and overworked. Learn how to balance your life with rest, service, worship, obligations, work, and more. Understand that almost always when you say no, it is God preparing you for a greater "yes" opportunity that is coming your way. Together we can change the world.

on Anger

Let's face it we live in an angry world. Our world is filled with much noise, shouting, bullying, and at many times it even seems down right chaotic. The sad truth is our world is very angry and at the moment uncompromising or willing to change. For followers of Jesus this can be very tricky and difficult, because many people in our families, neighborhoods, churches, and schools fall at many different places on the political spectrum and many people readily accept labels for themselves such as conservative, liberal, moderate, etc, but they readily reject those who have different beliefs. The sad reality is this problem is this problem is not going away, but we can do something about it. Here are a few ideas to get the ball rolling.

1) Always be willing to listen. James 1:19 says, "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry."
One great step you can take toward bringing about the Kingdom of God on this earth is to become a better listener. Learn not just to stop talking but also really focus on what the other person is saying. One very important truth is you don't always have to agree with them, but as a common courtesy and as a gesture of kindness you should listen to them. My mother would always tell me, "Brian, you have two ears and only one mouth. You should listen twice as much as you talk."

The same is true about our relationship with God. How many times do we dominate the conversation in our prayers and even during worship? Begin praying more often that the Holy Spirit would speak to you and you'd have the humility to listen.

2) Share your story first, then your ideas second. Acts 22:1-22. . .
We live in a society where people share their ideas and beliefs all the time! Even if you don't want to hear them, people are still telling you who to vote for, what to support, who's a racist, who's a crook, who's right, and who is wrong. This sharing does have value, but it often leaves very little room for the Holy Spirit to work. Many people have their minds made up on key beliefs and ideas at this point. However, your story of how God is working in your life has immense value, learn to share it. Learn to post things on social media that don't degrade other people but rather lift God up. Learn to pray for those who you disagree with, and above all don't be silent on your story. God should and needs to be working in your life, and in a world that is filled with anger, hurt, and confusion people need to be drawn to the goodness of God.

3) Don't be content just with what you know. . . Ephesians 3:20, "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine according to the power that is at work within us. . ." Don't just settle or be satisfied to hear what you know in worship, study, meditation, or in conversation. Seek to learn more about God, seek to grow in your faith, seek to serve more than you seek to complain, and above all never stop learning. Our Christian walk is a marathon. God is ready to take you deeper every step of the way, but never stop learning about who God is. Make Sunday school, worship, service, and Bible study a priority in your life. You'll be amazed at how your anger at things that don't matter seems to cool when this happens.

A conversation for you to have with your loved ones: "What should we as followers of Jesus Christ be angry about?"

on Humility

This has been something God has really been hitting me over the head with recently. Pride is easy to adapt, easy to live into, but has very little place in the Kingdom of God. Time and time again in all four gospels we hear Jesus putting prideful people in their places. Jesus has moments when he tells the Rich Young Ruler to sell all of his possessions (Matthew 19:16-22), he instructed dinner guests to sit at the foot of the table and not the head (Luke 14), and he even voluntarily washed his disciples feet (John 13), a task not even slaves during 1st century Israel were required to preform.

Jesus is very intentional about spreading his message of being humble and willing to serve and also condemning those who demonstrate prideful behavior. Because he knows and saw in his earthly ministry time and time again just how destructive prideful behavior can be. So, in this overarching message what are a few things we can learn about humility? Here are a few. . .

1) Anybody can practice it.
One of my favorite quotes of all time is by Martin Luther King Jr. he said that anybody can be great because anybody can serve someone else. What a powerful reminder that servanthood is not based on talent, income, or intellectual ability! My charge to you is look to serve. Look to go above and beyond without being asked or without getting anything in return. You very well could lead someone to want to know the God you worship.

2) Jesus first served us.
Servanthood and humility does require you to give up something. It often requires you to give up being first, being comfortable, and often it requires you to give up your time. But, what you get in return is so much greater than what you gave up. You get the joy of blessing someone with your love and service, and there is also the reminder that whenever we fed the hungry, clothed the naked, etc. we did it to Jesus as well. (Matthew 25, Parable of the Sheep and the Goats).

3) Habits become a lifestyle.
Let's face it most of enjoy being served. We like someone bringing us a drink so we don't have to get up from the couch, we enjoy someone volunteering to watch our kids, clean our house, etc. But, when you begin to walk humbly, thank people regularly, and look to serve your church, neighborhood, family, and community these habits will become a part of who you are. It will be one of the biggest blessings and adventures of your life!

on Proverbs 12

One thing I do really love is that the word of God is timeless. God's word speaks into our lives in powerful, real, and profound ways all the time. My prayer and hope is that the more we read the word of God, the more we become like Jesus. Here are some thoughts on Proverbs 12.

Proverbs 12:1, "Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge. Whoever hates correction is stupid."
  Discipline is a word that brings up many negative feelings. We remember the days of being grounded, not being able to watch TV, being put in time-out, or being spanked, swatted, etc. However, the writer of Proverbs seems to have a different approach. If you love discipline then you will love knowledge. If you see the value in being corrected, learning from mistakes, have the humility to admit you were wrong, and the enthusiasm to correct/change your foolish behavior than the writer contends you will love knowledge. To take it one step further and to fit this verse in the overarching theme of Proverbs, good things will come to those who love discipline.
  Where I think this conversation needs to go is two-fold. 1) I think and personally believe discipline always should make the person being disciplined a better person. The idea of discipline should always be behavior change not punishment or even a power trip, but rather the result should be a change of the heart. We discipline out of love, not power. 2) Learn to set a powerful example. Humans beings imitate what they see and especially imitate those people who they like and respect. If you're in a position of authority (parent, teacher, older sibling, etc) be a source of kindness, love, and respect. Younger people will imitate good behavior if they see see it.
Proverbs 12:20, "Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy."
  It can sometimes be very difficult to measure a person's heart. Because we don't fully know their whole story. We don't know often their struggles and what they deal with on a daily basis. But, the good news is that is for God to know not us. We do know our heart, and we do know where we stand. Is your life looking to promote peace, heal brokenness, give encouragement, and point people closer to Jesus? Or is your life about lifting yourself up and always being right?
  This is a great thing to really look at, pray about, and begin to look to serve. I look to volunteer one time a week, and I will say that has really allowed my heart to be focused more on serving the Kingdom than myself. Please know that we do this journey together, and we are for you in your pursuit of a deeper relationship with Jesus. 

on Politics

  My grandmother always told me, "Brian, never talk about religion or politics, unless you want to fight." My grandma didn't have a doctorate or even a Master's degree, but she had amazing common sense. Her quote though she told me years ago definitely rings true today. Politics for some reason tends to bring out the worst in people. Jesus spoke over and over again about authority one of the most memorable moments came in Matthew 22:21 when Jesus told the crowd to, "Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's." But one of the most clear cut examples of how we should respond to authority, the government, and in political situations is found in Romans 13.

  1) No authority that which God has not established (Romans 13:1)
Let's face it God knows the future reality of this year's election, and next year, and the following election after that. I hope that truth brings some comfort to your heart. Because I know many of us seeing the news about polls, about controversial doctrine and ideas, and among many other things are getting quite worried. I've felt my blood pressure rise a little bit as I try to immerse myself in the world of politics. But, the reality God still and always sits on the throne.

I will say God does want us to support candidates who love the word of God, who are moral, upright, and desire America to be a place for all, and a candidate who will live out their faith while they serve in office. Christians should take a part but never be worried about politics.

  2) Rebelling against authority is rebelling against God. (Romans 13:2)
This is a very tough saying in the New Testament. Because, there are quite a few authority figures we just don't like or don't agree with. But Paul is clear in this verse: respect them and listen to them anyway. I think that is a powerful message and one that is very much lost today, can we respect those we disagree with?

We live in a "Me-first/Selfie" culture. The sad reality is many in our society don't look to serve others' rather just have their own needs met. A me first person often only looks to respect authority when they agree with them. Paul reminds the Roman Christians who they are in vs. 2 as he tells them to respect the governments God has established. Christians need to trust God in both times they agree and times they don't.

  3) Give to them what you owe. . . (Romans 13:7)
This is one of the most infamous verses in the New Testament telling the church and followers of Jesus to pay their taxes and give to the government what is owe them. In looking at this verse it fits nicely with the New Testament's overarching message among many to rid yourself of material things that hold you back from fully serving Jesus. The rich young ruler was told to sell all and come follow. We are told to store up treasure in Heaven. The list can go on and on.

Don't hold so tightly onto material things. If they are due the government such as your taxes give them willingly and know that God has something better in store. Politics though frustrating at times are in complete control of the God who sits on the throne. Politics can be a great witnessing time as a time when they bring out the best and not the worst in you.

on Proverbs 11

God's word is something I hope that shapes and molds us all the time. My goal this Lent season is to encourage the church to fall in love with the word of God all over again! I think we have seasons in our life filled with zeal and other moments filled with apathy toward the word of God. But, our hope is that as we move toward Christian perfection our hope and desire would grow greater for the word of God.

Here's what Proverbs 11 has to say that is still relevant today.

Proverbs 11:4, "Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath. . ."
  What a powerful reminder to keep perspective on our pursuit of earthly wealth, it won't last. Close to a thousand years before Jesus came on the scene, Solomon used his Godly wisdom to remind people of all generations that wealth is fleeting and it won't matter on the day on judgment. What Solomon is telling us is to focus our energy on something that more permanent than wealth, pursuing God with our whole heart and pursuing the fulfillment of God's will on this earth.

  This is a very, very broad idea. I will admit that. But, as continue to love and fall in love with Jesus more, take it one step at a time. 1) Understand that your wealth is a gift from God. Know that it isn't fair someone is born into extreme poverty, while others are born into the middle class or even great riches. Be thankful for what you have, but don't be so attached that your world would be crushed if it was taken away. 2) Learn to be generous. We live in a broken world that needs shaken up by some radical acts of love, grace, and even forgiveness. Learn to make this a part of who you are. Be encouraging, be hospitable, be generous, and learn to hold your tongue. If you do this you'll be an extremely "wealthy" person.

2) Proverbs 11:17, "Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves."
  When people discuss the church at the coffee house, gym, office, or anytime throughout the week. What are the things they say? What adjectives are typically used to describe the church? Well, I am a big believer in the church, so I am certain that not all adjectives used to describe the church are negative. But, one question I am interested in is how many churches or even Christians for that matter would be labeled as kind people? How many of us make other people better or even take time to listen to others?

  I decided to make kindness my word for this year, and my goal has been learn to hold my tongue in trying situations, to be faithful in prayer that the Holy Spirit would guide me to adopt an attitude of kindness, and I've been intentional about showing undeserved kindness at least once a week. I will tell you it's a difficult process but very worthwhile. I challenge you with this question: do people think you are a kind follower of Jesus? Or is there room for you to improve? We'll talk about Proverbs 12 really soon.

on Ash Wednesday

  Ash Wednesday is a very unique day in the life of the church. Though it is not commanded or instituted by Jesus, it is still a very important day. Because this day allows us to look at our lives, look at the God moments, the moments filled with laughter and rejoice, but it also is time for us to be concerned. We should be concerned for the moments when we've been impatient, rude, judgmental, or prevented others from knowing Jesus. Allow Ash Wednesday to be the start of a new beginning, a reminder for you to live out your faith each and every day. Here are a few ideas to make Ash Wednesday and this season of Lent very effective.

1) Pick a passage of scripture and read over it several times.
  One of the problems in our fast paced society is we see a lot of information and facts but we don't really absorb them. Now, I will say some people are gifted and can learn a lot just by glancing at a book or article or so on. For most of us that is not the case. We need to see and hear things, many times. I encourage pick out a book (now you won't make it through Psalms), or two of the Bible and read over them several times. Pay attention to details, insert your own name in the place of pronouns, pray each night that the spirit would illumine your mind to something new, and be amazed at what you learn.

  I encourage you to read over many different books. Two of my favorite are 2 Corinthians or Philippians.

2) Pray really big prayers.
  I'm sure if God had a nickel for every person who prayed, "Bless me." He would have A LOT of money! But, aren't we selling God short by praying such small prayers? Isn't the God of the universe capable of big, sweeping life change? I encourage start praying that racism would be eliminated in this generation. Start praying that the church would be so moved that they would seek to eliminate world hunger or water-borne disease. Ask God for healing for the victims of domestic or sexual violence. Don't sell God short. Pray big, and be amazed but patient at the opportunities that God brings into your family's life.

3) Try something brand new.
  How many of us always play it safe? I do, often, and I will admit I do feel really guilty about that. This Lenten season try something brand new. Volunteer for a ministry at church. Start doing devotions together as a family. Begin to increase your monthly giving to your church or ministry of choice. Sponsor a child who lives in a poor country. Volunteer your time at an after school club. Step up to clean up at church after a big function. I think you get my point. The list of new opportunities is endless. It's time to step off the sidelines and into the game! Enjoy this Lenten season!!

on Proverbs 10

Wisdom at all junctures in life is an incredibly valuable asset in every single area of life. Wisdom isn't flashy, catchy, or even sexy, but if the word of God serves as any guide to us it is that foolishness actions bring about some disastrous consequences. Wisdom brings about long life, blessing, and abundance, most of the time. Please be advised that some very moral, very wise people have sadly met tragic ends all too soon. Let's dive into Proverbs 10. . .
Proverbs 10:2, "Ill-gotten treasures have no long lasting value. . ."
We live in a "now" society, we want fame, riches, free stuff, even our burrito we popped in the microwave to be finished and received now. So, often the necessary step to receive all of this stuff now is to take short cuts, cheat the system, be dishonest, and all for the gratification without the necessary work. We have received our treasures but they are ill-gotten. They fade away. We don't appreciate them as much because we didn't really earn them, and even worse is the reality that someone at some point could find out how we achieved the goal and then have the goal take away.

The remedy is to work hard. Be above reproach. Be honest with people, always try your best, and never stop improving. I think many of us believe that our society would be greatly improved by men and women who focus on building honest achievement, our generous with their treasures to those less fortunate, and look to grow in their knowledge and love of Jesus Christ more and more.

Proverbs 10:8, "The wise in heart accept commands. . ."
One of the passages of scripture you will rarely see preached on are the several passages of scripture that say the people of God obeyed the Lord's commands. You just won't every hear that sermon, because it's mundane, route, daily. That passage doesn't bring up strong emotions in many people, but what it does do is bring about the power of the gospel and what the gospel asks of us, to obey the word of God.

Now, I will say it isn't easy to obey God. In fact as a youth pastor, I even mess up daily. But, the idea is that we journey closer and closer to become more like Jesus Christ each and every day. Learn to be teachable, understand you don't have all the answers, and never stop reading the word of God.

Definitely check out the rest of the chapter. Especially look at these three verses: 10:11, 10:26, and 10:32.

on Making a Murderer

In case you've missed it this show, Making a Murderer, has been blowing up the news world and many Netflix ques. The story centers around Steven Avery and his nephew Brendan Dassey who were arrested for murdering freelance photographer Teresa Halbach. The show also looks at Avery's trial, sentence, and exoneration for sexual assault and attempted murder of Penny Bornstein in 1985. After his exoneration 2003, Avery filed a major law suit against the Manitowoc County Police.

The show is filmed over a ten year period by film makers Laura Riccardi and Moira Demos, and it chronicles the saga of Avery and Dassey's arrest, trial, and many other events surrounding his original conviction and lawsuit against the Manitowoc County Police department. The show does have an MA rating, so please be advised that allowing younger children to watch this program will expose them to some very mature themes.

Here are a few thoughts on the matter. . .
1) Be careful who we look up to.
  The subject matter of this show is very interesting. I'm not going to lie, I love courtroom drama. I've read 5 Michael Connelly books, and I have two more to read, but we as followers of Jesus Christ need to be very careful how we handle shows and situations like this. Steven Avery is a man with a troubled past. He should be prayed for and loved and encouraged that his actions need forgiveness. He doesn't need to be celebrated. This show has in some ways turned him into a house hold name and that saddens me. We know the name of this man who has such a troubled past but for many of us we couldn't name one of our local police officers or firefighters, and the list can go on. Jesus died for him as well, and Jesus desires that one day Steven Avery will accept him as his personal savior.

Philippians 4:8 is a great reminder of Paul that we should look and think on things that are pure, noble, excellent, and holy. Be mindful of that verse when watching shows such as this one.

2) Be careful about advocating violent entertainment.
  We live in a culture of violence. To be fair I think the world was always violent, but with our expanded and improved way to share information I think we see violence more and more than generations past have seen violence. But, as followers of Jesus we're called to love the world, but not be a part of the world. I encourage you to pray for peace. See and support movies and entertainment that support family values. Vote in elections for candidates who support and will vote for things you believe. Pray for victims of domestic violence. Talk to your children and younger siblings about how violence is wrong and if they see it on the TV or in a video game how it shouldn't be imitated in real life, and above all look to draw closer to Jesus no matter what. Jesus said blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth, and he also said blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God! (Matthew 5:5, 5:9) 

on Music

Psalm 100 states that we are to make a joyful noise to the Lord. Thank goodness it never says that we are to make a noise that is on tune, sweet sounding, or pleasant. Because, as someone who is pretty much tone deaf, I can't carry a tune in a bucket. What I conclude from this verse is that God loves people who use music among many other things to praise and worship him. As I dive into music, I encourage you to look at what CDs are in your collection, what music plays on your vehicle's radio, and ask yourself is the music I listen to bringing me closer or drawing me farther away from God?

1) Be gracious to all in the area of music.
Colossians 4:6 states that we should let our speech gracious, seasoned with salt. . . People love their music and use their music for many different reasons. Some people use music to get themselves pumped up for a big athletic game, test, or even to finally tell that special boy or girl how they feel. Others use music to relax and unwind after a long, stressful day. While still others use music to heal and move on from a painful life music, and still others use music to draw closer to God.

So, I'm writing to caution you, be careful what you about music that other people listen to and even at times love. We live in a world where we disagree on many things, but what I'm wondering is can we offer a dissenting opinion with a spirit of love and kindness? I think so. Music criticism can be very damaging especially when it is levied against worship music. Please be very gracious when someone seeks to worship God in a way that is different than your preferred style. Look to understand and know that God is bigger than hymns, bigger than guitars, and even bigger than the English language and God is worshiped and honored in all when our hearts are right. Not once in scripture did God command His people to worship only with piano, only in church, only with hymns, or only on Sunday, but God constantly was disciplining and correcting his people for having hearts that were sets on sinful things.

2) Don't make an idol out of music.
In Exodus 20, God was really clear to Moses that he should have no other Gods before Him. Jesus' discussion with many would be followers in Luke 9:57-62 is very similar. So, I bring that up to say this, "Have we made an idol out of music?"

Do we get so bent out of shape when a guitar appears in worship that we lose sight of the God we worship? Do we moan and groan when we have to sit and listen to hymns instead of letting our hair fly at a Christian rock concert? Do we get enthusiastic when our favorite music is being played or do we get even more excited about the God we're singing about?

Value the music you love. Cherish the memories you had at concerts or in church listening to that music, but never lose sight of the bigger picture and that is God honored not with music first and foremost but with hearts that are lifted up to him and community that desires Jesus above everything else.

I encourage you to read this piece that Switchfoot singer Jon Foreman said during an interview in 2014. May God richly bless you this day.
http://whizzpopping.tumblr.com/post/6664742872/jon-foreman-when-asked-if-switchfoot-is-a

on the New Year

As 2015 draws to a close we can't help but reflect on what was and what will be. 2015 was a year that was filled with many great moments for us all and many moments filled with pain. But, what is most important is not whether or not you had a landmark or a valley year. The most important part is what you learned and who you've become and did you become more like Jesus in 2015.

Here's a few reflections from the past year.

1) Acquiring patience leads to a fulfilling life.

We live in an instant gratification society. Most of us want our goals, our dreams, and even our coffee right now. Waiting is the bane of almost all of our lives, very few people enjoy the lines, the traffic, or being on hold. But, the truth is our God doesn't operate on our timetable. Our God isn't in the business of always giving us what we want but rather, God is in the business of placing people, situations, and opportunities that are designed to make you more like Jesus.

Acquiring patience, learning how to speak with love and compassion, and being gracious in frustrating circumstances are HUGE steps to acquiring more patience. Once you begin to pray BIG prayers, ask for more patience, and look to learn in upsetting circumstances you will begin to have a fulfilling life!

2) Prepare for the storm during the sunshine.

During the Cold War days many people in our country had bomb shelters that were fully stocked in case disaster happened to strike. People were ready and prepared, and they prepared before the disaster. Now, I will say that tough moments are bound to come in all of our lives, so prepare for them now.

Let your friends know that you're there for them, and be there for them. Because you will need them when disaster comes. Build up your spiritual disciplines now, because the moment when disaster comes your faith will be one of the main things that will get you through it. Most importantly, tell your loved ones you're thankful for them, and be thankful for the blessings you have. Paul reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 that we are to give thanks in all circumstances.

This year promises to be a good one. Worship often. Pray big prayers. Seek wisdom and look for ways to serve the Lord with gladness!!