Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Halftime Halftime
I don't think that is actually a phrase: "halftime halftime"; but it is what came to mind. I am taking a break from blogging. Perhaps I'll be back. Sometimes I just need a break (a "halftime") to consider what I'm doing, and how to proceed from here.
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
A FAVORITE QUOTE ON PARENTING
"We live in the midst of holy teachers. Sometimes they spit up on themselves or on us. Sometimes they throw tantrums. Sometimes they cuddle us and kiss us and love us. In the good and the bad they mold our hearts, shape our souls, and invite us to experience God in newer and deeper ways. Although we may shed many tears along this sacred journey of parenting, numerous blessings await us around every bend in the road." - Gary Thomas, Sacred Parenting
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
CHAZOWN
In my discipleship journey with a group of men, we just started reading the book Chazown (the Hebrew word for "vision") by Craig Groeschel. My first favorite quote:
"the decisions you are making today are actually making the bed you will lie in while you wait to die."
"the decisions you are making today are actually making the bed you will lie in while you wait to die."
Saturday, September 13, 2014
PLEASE DISCIPLE ME
I don't know if those words are used very often; and even trying to get people who are willing to disciple or be discipled is a difficult task. But in those moments when people show a desire to take their next steps in Christ; and to help others take their next steps, there is nothing better. What I have found, is that in order to disciple someone, they need to have a desire. It is not easy, and real discipleship take everything we have and involves all we are. Comfortable Christianity is a foreign concept to true discipleship.
In a previous church, I had some guys who asked me to disciple them. But after I began, they quit; and eventually asked me to leave the church. I guess they didn't know what they were asking for; or perhaps their intentions were somewhat veiled. I don't know. Anytime someone shows interest, I will take it at face value and move ahead with helping them grow. And of course, when people turn against you, in any phase or life or relationship, it is always harder when you have invested yourself in them, and opened up your life to them.
All of that makes what God is doing, right now, in my present ministry, so encouraging and special for me personally. There are 10 guys who stepped up and basically said: "Disciple me." And in saying that, they also knew they were also saying this: "I want to become a disciple maker." They have committed a year of their lives to our process; and they know it won't stop with a year. It will then be up to them to take all that God has done in their experience and pass it on to someone else. This is what it is all about: disciples becoming disciple-makers. I'm having a hard time thinking about anything more important.
In fact, what I have noticed; is that with my focus on discipleship, the other external, temporary aspects of church ministry don't mean as much to me anymore. The facility, the numbers of attendance and finances; and even those who are complaining about things. These used to be my focus because they were the urgent things always in front of me. I was comparing myself to other "successful" pastors and churches. Now that discipleship is my personal focus and church focus, completely, those "other things" don't defeat or discourage me as much. I know that discipleship is what will last...eternally!
I have grateful to God for these men who said "disciple me"; and they really mean it!
In a previous church, I had some guys who asked me to disciple them. But after I began, they quit; and eventually asked me to leave the church. I guess they didn't know what they were asking for; or perhaps their intentions were somewhat veiled. I don't know. Anytime someone shows interest, I will take it at face value and move ahead with helping them grow. And of course, when people turn against you, in any phase or life or relationship, it is always harder when you have invested yourself in them, and opened up your life to them.
All of that makes what God is doing, right now, in my present ministry, so encouraging and special for me personally. There are 10 guys who stepped up and basically said: "Disciple me." And in saying that, they also knew they were also saying this: "I want to become a disciple maker." They have committed a year of their lives to our process; and they know it won't stop with a year. It will then be up to them to take all that God has done in their experience and pass it on to someone else. This is what it is all about: disciples becoming disciple-makers. I'm having a hard time thinking about anything more important.
In fact, what I have noticed; is that with my focus on discipleship, the other external, temporary aspects of church ministry don't mean as much to me anymore. The facility, the numbers of attendance and finances; and even those who are complaining about things. These used to be my focus because they were the urgent things always in front of me. I was comparing myself to other "successful" pastors and churches. Now that discipleship is my personal focus and church focus, completely, those "other things" don't defeat or discourage me as much. I know that discipleship is what will last...eternally!
I have grateful to God for these men who said "disciple me"; and they really mean it!
Monday, September 1, 2014
A THANK YOU TO THE CHURCH I GREW UP IN
It hit me, again, just a couple days ago, as I was sitting in a conference that was meant to encourage pastors and leaders of small churches. It seems, in my own heart, and in the books I have read and presentations I have seen, that the churches we grew up in are highly criticized and almost completely dismissed. That didn't happen in the conference I attended this weekend, but I have read and heard it often. I do understand why many of those churches are criticized. They tended to be the more traditional churches that seemed to have some priorities out of whack, came across legalistic; and perhaps didn't seem to be centered on the gospel or attracting many to come hear the gospel. There are many things that can be on that list of criticisms I have read and heard.
But then it hit me...Maybe we are the ones thinking wrongly about this. We are very careful to be up to date in ministry and thinking; and that usually includes criticizing the way others used to or
do ministry. However, if we were to go back 40 years, to the previous generation, weren't they doing the same thing? They were making some changes from the previous generation; and they were doing what they believer would honor God as it relates to all areas of ministry. Some of the cultural and church climate issues of their day led to some of the ways they approached things. Was it really wrong? Were they completely ignorant to the gospel and the pursuit of glorifying God through making disciples? Probably not.
So, instead of pointing out the errors of the church I grew up in, I want to list the top 10 things I am grateful for, as it relates to Grandview Park Baptist Church in Des Moines, Iowa:
1. Many families worshipped together, and that was a great blessing for me
2. The Word of God was valued and preached
3. There was an emphasis on trusting in Christ for salvation
4. We were encouraged to get involved in ministry, even at a young age
5. Prayer was highlighted and depended on
6. Children's and youth ministries were well supported
7. There was an emphasis on sharing our faith with others
8. Pursuing holiness and Christ-likeness was talked about often
9. Partnering with other churches was encouraged
10. This was the ministry where I first learned about Jesus, was baptized, grew through serving, committed my life to serving God in ministry; and gained incredible, valuable experiences that led to spiritual growth.
So, today I want to thank my parents, my pastors, and the entire church family of Grandview Park Baptist Church, for the eternal impact you had on my life and many others. Don't live in the past. Don't allow the criticisms to distract you. Evaluate everything; and then keep doing what you believe God has called you to - for His glory!
But then it hit me...Maybe we are the ones thinking wrongly about this. We are very careful to be up to date in ministry and thinking; and that usually includes criticizing the way others used to or
do ministry. However, if we were to go back 40 years, to the previous generation, weren't they doing the same thing? They were making some changes from the previous generation; and they were doing what they believer would honor God as it relates to all areas of ministry. Some of the cultural and church climate issues of their day led to some of the ways they approached things. Was it really wrong? Were they completely ignorant to the gospel and the pursuit of glorifying God through making disciples? Probably not.
So, instead of pointing out the errors of the church I grew up in, I want to list the top 10 things I am grateful for, as it relates to Grandview Park Baptist Church in Des Moines, Iowa:
1. Many families worshipped together, and that was a great blessing for me
2. The Word of God was valued and preached
3. There was an emphasis on trusting in Christ for salvation
4. We were encouraged to get involved in ministry, even at a young age
5. Prayer was highlighted and depended on
6. Children's and youth ministries were well supported
7. There was an emphasis on sharing our faith with others
8. Pursuing holiness and Christ-likeness was talked about often
9. Partnering with other churches was encouraged
10. This was the ministry where I first learned about Jesus, was baptized, grew through serving, committed my life to serving God in ministry; and gained incredible, valuable experiences that led to spiritual growth.
So, today I want to thank my parents, my pastors, and the entire church family of Grandview Park Baptist Church, for the eternal impact you had on my life and many others. Don't live in the past. Don't allow the criticisms to distract you. Evaluate everything; and then keep doing what you believe God has called you to - for His glory!
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
I AM ONE
At the beginning of a summer message series on the Church, I gave a challenge called: I Am One.
The message series was entitled: The Plan, as it focused on the one and only plan Jesus left us with, as to what we were to do until He returns: Make Disciples! We may all approach it differently and communicate it differently, but it is THE PLAN we are to be following. Of course, it is all about following Him! Our church purpose statement puts it this way: Following Jesus one step at a time.
As we take our next steps in following Jesus and come alongside someone else to take the next step, we are making disciples.
Over the summer, in looking for 100 people in our little church, there have been 84 so far that have taken the challenge. They have signed a "I am one" paper and posted it to the board under the cross. It has been encouraging to see the response our people have had, to pursue discipleship individually, and as a church. Over the summer, we have shared what our discipleship process is here; and how we can all be a part of it. So, once again, here is the challenge that was made; and to which others can still commit:
I AM ONE
The challenge is this: We are looking for 100 people who attend Weymouth Community Church, who would commit to making our purpose statement their main focus: Following Jesus One Step At A Time. This is all about discipleship. Jesus' final command to his followers included one main imperative: "make disciples". The other phrases explained what would be included in the process of this one main command: Going, baptizing, and teaching others to obey all that Jesus said.
There are 2 key questions that a person who makes discipleship the main focus is going to continually ask: What is my next step?; Who am I helping take their next step? These 2 questions can keep us thinking about and pursuing the one thing we are supposed to be doing. We get distracted by so many other things in life, including good things in church. We are interested in the music style, preaching style, the facility, the programs, and so many other things.
But what would happen if we kept our focus on the main thing? What is it was all about THE Plan? What could be accomplished, even in a small church, if 100 people dedicated themselves to following Jesus one step at a time? Are you 1 of those 100 that God is calling? If so, then make your statement:
The message series was entitled: The Plan, as it focused on the one and only plan Jesus left us with, as to what we were to do until He returns: Make Disciples! We may all approach it differently and communicate it differently, but it is THE PLAN we are to be following. Of course, it is all about following Him! Our church purpose statement puts it this way: Following Jesus one step at a time.
As we take our next steps in following Jesus and come alongside someone else to take the next step, we are making disciples.
Over the summer, in looking for 100 people in our little church, there have been 84 so far that have taken the challenge. They have signed a "I am one" paper and posted it to the board under the cross. It has been encouraging to see the response our people have had, to pursue discipleship individually, and as a church. Over the summer, we have shared what our discipleship process is here; and how we can all be a part of it. So, once again, here is the challenge that was made; and to which others can still commit:
I AM ONE
The challenge is this: We are looking for 100 people who attend Weymouth Community Church, who would commit to making our purpose statement their main focus: Following Jesus One Step At A Time. This is all about discipleship. Jesus' final command to his followers included one main imperative: "make disciples". The other phrases explained what would be included in the process of this one main command: Going, baptizing, and teaching others to obey all that Jesus said.
There are 2 key questions that a person who makes discipleship the main focus is going to continually ask: What is my next step?; Who am I helping take their next step? These 2 questions can keep us thinking about and pursuing the one thing we are supposed to be doing. We get distracted by so many other things in life, including good things in church. We are interested in the music style, preaching style, the facility, the programs, and so many other things.
But what would happen if we kept our focus on the main thing? What is it was all about THE Plan? What could be accomplished, even in a small church, if 100 people dedicated themselves to following Jesus one step at a time? Are you 1 of those 100 that God is calling? If so, then make your statement:
I AM ONE
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
PLAYING HURT
As an athlete, or former athlete (is seems), playing hurt is a phrase often heard and applied to those athletes who practice and perform, who play, even with injury. Sometimes you can't continue, such as the gruesome leg fracture that Paul George, who plays for Team USA (and the Indiana Pacers) just experienced. Many times, however, you see players get hit in the head, or bleed from different parts of their body, or twist parts awkwardly, but are able to continue (unless a doctor or coach tells them they cannot). We usually admire those, who push the pain aside, and continue fighting for their team (as long as it is "our" team!).
And then, there are those, like me, who get hurt (probably because of my advancing age); and yet try to come back and play anyway (probably because my mind sometimes tricks me into thinking I'm getting younger). That's just plain stupidity. Last week, while playing basketball (still the greatest game in the world (if you're not counting Settlers of Catan!), I was kneed in the ribs; and with concerns of internal bleeding (no evidence, just concerns), I went to the ER to get checked out. Turns out it was just bruising, or more specifically, the muscles around the ribs were contused (or something like that). All I knew, is that the pain worsened during the day and so I went.
But a few days later, after not doing anything to aggravate it, it was time to go play basketball again. I felt pretty good; so why not. I'll be careful. What an idiot. I was fine for a while, but as soon as I was pushed, in that very spot on my side, I went down in pain (anyone who didn't know what happened a few days before probably thought I was a wimp). I made sure they knew I almost died at the ER the other day (well, I did go to the ER; and there have been people who died after going there, right?). The rest of the morning I was sore; and by evening, I was hurting as much as I did when I first injured myself. Hopefully I learned my lesson, and I won't be playing basketball until I am fully healed (doubtful, but I can hope).
I don't know if it is because I'm a pastor, but I couldn't help but think of the spiritual application here. We all are "playing hurt". We all start out injured so badly, that only heart surgery, performed by someone else, will heal us. But even if we have a new heart, and changed life, we still battle a sinful nature, we still "play hurt". And yes, we should be playing, but we need to play, we need to live, understanding fully where how we are hurt, and where we are vulnerable. There are times when we need to protect certain areas; and times when we need the healing touch that only comes through some more surgery:some repentance, confession and forgiveness.
In sports, it is often said that we should never allow others to know or see our weaknesses and vulnerable areas. And yet, in our walk with God, it is exactly the opposite. The more we reveal our weaknesses, the more it is evident that God's strength is our power; and His grace is sufficient. So, keep playing hurt, but do it in the grace of God.
And then, there are those, like me, who get hurt (probably because of my advancing age); and yet try to come back and play anyway (probably because my mind sometimes tricks me into thinking I'm getting younger). That's just plain stupidity. Last week, while playing basketball (still the greatest game in the world (if you're not counting Settlers of Catan!), I was kneed in the ribs; and with concerns of internal bleeding (no evidence, just concerns), I went to the ER to get checked out. Turns out it was just bruising, or more specifically, the muscles around the ribs were contused (or something like that). All I knew, is that the pain worsened during the day and so I went.
But a few days later, after not doing anything to aggravate it, it was time to go play basketball again. I felt pretty good; so why not. I'll be careful. What an idiot. I was fine for a while, but as soon as I was pushed, in that very spot on my side, I went down in pain (anyone who didn't know what happened a few days before probably thought I was a wimp). I made sure they knew I almost died at the ER the other day (well, I did go to the ER; and there have been people who died after going there, right?). The rest of the morning I was sore; and by evening, I was hurting as much as I did when I first injured myself. Hopefully I learned my lesson, and I won't be playing basketball until I am fully healed (doubtful, but I can hope).
I don't know if it is because I'm a pastor, but I couldn't help but think of the spiritual application here. We all are "playing hurt". We all start out injured so badly, that only heart surgery, performed by someone else, will heal us. But even if we have a new heart, and changed life, we still battle a sinful nature, we still "play hurt". And yes, we should be playing, but we need to play, we need to live, understanding fully where how we are hurt, and where we are vulnerable. There are times when we need to protect certain areas; and times when we need the healing touch that only comes through some more surgery:some repentance, confession and forgiveness.
In sports, it is often said that we should never allow others to know or see our weaknesses and vulnerable areas. And yet, in our walk with God, it is exactly the opposite. The more we reveal our weaknesses, the more it is evident that God's strength is our power; and His grace is sufficient. So, keep playing hurt, but do it in the grace of God.
Friday, July 18, 2014
MEANINGFUL OR MEANINGLESS
As I read through the Bible this year, it encourages me to read the portions of Scripture I don't normally run to for encouragement. Today I was reading Ecclesiastes, and was greeted with these opening words:
"Meaningless! Meaningless! says the teacher. "Utterly Meaningless! Everything is meaningless!" (1:2)
What a beginning to a very meaningful book. Solomon writes about things we don't like to really think about. Some of the principles of this book seem to fit with people who might look on life with discouragement: "life is hard and then you die" kind of mentality. There is certainly a tone in the book that no matter how hard you work, and no matter what you do, it ends up seeming empty, useless, vain - meaningless!
And yet if you read carefully, you also see hints of meaning. Understanding that this life is short, just a breath, there is a reason to enjoy every blessing that God gives. This includes work and what comes from it. It includes special relationships and all that entails. It includes wisdom and knowledge and the advantages of both. It includes some practical advice such as we read in Proverbs. And although the final chapter includes another reminder: "Meaningless! Meaningless! says the Teacher. Everything is meaningless!" (12:8), it also includes this:
"Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind." (12:13)
There are blessings to be found in this short life; and most do everything they can to pursue fleeting happiness and satisfaction in what this life provides. But I do think that Solomon, in all His God given wisdom knew the truth: Real satisfaction only comes through an intimate relationship with God. At the conclusion of everything, it all has to do with a right relationship with our Creator. To Fear God is not to cower and live terrified of condemnation. But it is to live a life of love, submitting our lives to the One who gave His life for us.
When we do that, we experience all the joy and peace and fulfillment that is available; even in the midst of a short, temporal life that is full of difficulty. We find out satisfaction in Him. If I focus, today, on responding to God for who He is and what He has done (life worship), I can also experience all the blessings that God gives me today. This makes life meaningful.
"Meaningless! Meaningless! says the teacher. "Utterly Meaningless! Everything is meaningless!" (1:2)
What a beginning to a very meaningful book. Solomon writes about things we don't like to really think about. Some of the principles of this book seem to fit with people who might look on life with discouragement: "life is hard and then you die" kind of mentality. There is certainly a tone in the book that no matter how hard you work, and no matter what you do, it ends up seeming empty, useless, vain - meaningless!
And yet if you read carefully, you also see hints of meaning. Understanding that this life is short, just a breath, there is a reason to enjoy every blessing that God gives. This includes work and what comes from it. It includes special relationships and all that entails. It includes wisdom and knowledge and the advantages of both. It includes some practical advice such as we read in Proverbs. And although the final chapter includes another reminder: "Meaningless! Meaningless! says the Teacher. Everything is meaningless!" (12:8), it also includes this:
"Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind." (12:13)
There are blessings to be found in this short life; and most do everything they can to pursue fleeting happiness and satisfaction in what this life provides. But I do think that Solomon, in all His God given wisdom knew the truth: Real satisfaction only comes through an intimate relationship with God. At the conclusion of everything, it all has to do with a right relationship with our Creator. To Fear God is not to cower and live terrified of condemnation. But it is to live a life of love, submitting our lives to the One who gave His life for us.
When we do that, we experience all the joy and peace and fulfillment that is available; even in the midst of a short, temporal life that is full of difficulty. We find out satisfaction in Him. If I focus, today, on responding to God for who He is and what He has done (life worship), I can also experience all the blessings that God gives me today. This makes life meaningful.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
WHO GREETED ME WITH: "HELLO FATHER"?
It took me by surprise; but then again, not really. I should be used to it by now. And, in reality, I love it when I hear someone say it. This is not the normal greeting my children give me, and you can rule them out as the suspects. It was said to me this past weekend, after I had officiated at a wedding. I was dressed in a normal suit and tie and did the wedding as I have been for 20 years. The things I say are fairly normal in evangelical circles; and when I introduce myself, I always say: "Hi, I'm Greg." So, with all that in mind, why would someone, and who would it be that would say: "Hello Father"?
It was the wedding photographer; and he is very familiar, in wedding settings, of the Catholic terminology for those who officiate. He may even be Catholic himself, although I'm sure he would have been able to recognize that I was not. He wanted me to know how much he appreciated how I officiated the wedding and told me that I did a great job. That was kind. But what struck me most was his calling me "Father". I wasn't offended by it at all. I have learned, over the years, to just accept and understand it when people call me that. But, more than that, I have come to really appreciate it when called "Father".
It has nothing to do with titles. I'm not a "titles" kind of guy. I stay away from them, at least for myself. And from my background, calling a minister "Father" was not seen as a good thing. Here is why I love hearing it. Normally, when someone calls me "Father", it means that I have been in a situation to minister to this person in some way, from God's Word. It also normally means that this person is not a devoted follower of Jesus. Not every time, of course, but in most cases, when I have talked to that person who called me "Father", I found out they are somewhat religious, but do not follow Jesus as a disciple.
I want nothing more than to be used by God to help people take their next steps in Jesus and to follow Him wholeheartedly. Many times, those who know the correct terminology are set in their ways and are not necessarily interested in doing what it will take to follow Him more closely. But when someone who calls me "Father" is willing to hear God's Word, I find they are much more open about finding out what God has to say to them. So, although I prefer to have my children call me "dad", the people I pastor to call me "Greg", I love it when someone who is searching for answers, and thinks that maybe the Bible has them, calls me "Father"!
It was the wedding photographer; and he is very familiar, in wedding settings, of the Catholic terminology for those who officiate. He may even be Catholic himself, although I'm sure he would have been able to recognize that I was not. He wanted me to know how much he appreciated how I officiated the wedding and told me that I did a great job. That was kind. But what struck me most was his calling me "Father". I wasn't offended by it at all. I have learned, over the years, to just accept and understand it when people call me that. But, more than that, I have come to really appreciate it when called "Father".
It has nothing to do with titles. I'm not a "titles" kind of guy. I stay away from them, at least for myself. And from my background, calling a minister "Father" was not seen as a good thing. Here is why I love hearing it. Normally, when someone calls me "Father", it means that I have been in a situation to minister to this person in some way, from God's Word. It also normally means that this person is not a devoted follower of Jesus. Not every time, of course, but in most cases, when I have talked to that person who called me "Father", I found out they are somewhat religious, but do not follow Jesus as a disciple.
I want nothing more than to be used by God to help people take their next steps in Jesus and to follow Him wholeheartedly. Many times, those who know the correct terminology are set in their ways and are not necessarily interested in doing what it will take to follow Him more closely. But when someone who calls me "Father" is willing to hear God's Word, I find they are much more open about finding out what God has to say to them. So, although I prefer to have my children call me "dad", the people I pastor to call me "Greg", I love it when someone who is searching for answers, and thinks that maybe the Bible has them, calls me "Father"!
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
THE PERFECT MARRIAGE
Today, Teresa and I celebrate 20 years of marriage. It is unbelievable that we have been married for 20 years; and there is something about the milestone of 20 that brings back some extra memories. Some memories are unrelated, such as the fact that 20 years ago yesterday, on the night before our wedding, we were doing what most everyone else in America was doing: watching O.J. Simpson driving down a highway in California, as he was wanted for questioning in the death of his wife. But much more importantly, although watched by less people, I married my best friend and the most beautiful woman in the world on June 18, 1994.
Now, back to the title of this blog entry. Just in case you thought I was referring to my marriage as the perfect marriage....I was! But maybe not in the way you think. We are far from perfect, and we have had our challenges over the years like anyone else. I have probably caused the majority of any problems because of my selfish, sinful nature. We would never say we have the perfect marriage as it is normally defined. We have enjoyed these 20 years, and I am so grateful to God for the gift of my wife and for these amazing 20 years.
The "perfect" part relates to one way that "perfect" can be translated in Scripture. It can mean "mature" rather than flawless. And as I think about God's purpose in our sanctification, and discipleship as our main goal in life, we do have the "perfect" marriage. Why? Because, from my perspective, the greatest way in which God has used my marriage in my life, and hers, is that He has used this most intimate relationship to bring both of us closer to Him. The details of marriage, over these years, have tested us, to seek God's face and keep all of our hope in Him alone. Growing in Christ, to a greater maturity, means that our marriage has indeed been "perfect" so far.
Happy Anniversary Teresa! By God's grace, I look forward to our next year of "perfection": growing closer to one another and Him!
Now, back to the title of this blog entry. Just in case you thought I was referring to my marriage as the perfect marriage....I was! But maybe not in the way you think. We are far from perfect, and we have had our challenges over the years like anyone else. I have probably caused the majority of any problems because of my selfish, sinful nature. We would never say we have the perfect marriage as it is normally defined. We have enjoyed these 20 years, and I am so grateful to God for the gift of my wife and for these amazing 20 years.
The "perfect" part relates to one way that "perfect" can be translated in Scripture. It can mean "mature" rather than flawless. And as I think about God's purpose in our sanctification, and discipleship as our main goal in life, we do have the "perfect" marriage. Why? Because, from my perspective, the greatest way in which God has used my marriage in my life, and hers, is that He has used this most intimate relationship to bring both of us closer to Him. The details of marriage, over these years, have tested us, to seek God's face and keep all of our hope in Him alone. Growing in Christ, to a greater maturity, means that our marriage has indeed been "perfect" so far.
Happy Anniversary Teresa! By God's grace, I look forward to our next year of "perfection": growing closer to one another and Him!
Saturday, June 14, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 20
I have come to the end of my list of 20 lessons I have learned in over 20 years since I began pastoral ministry. As I have put together this list, I have realized a few things: There are many more lessons I have learned that I could write about; I am still learning these things as well as much more; and God is so full of grace, to allow me to do this, even at the times when I feel I know absolutely nothing! Writing these things down has reminded me of how much I love being a pastor, and how thankful I am to God for this privilege. So, that brings me to:
Lesson 20: I have learned to take the next step
This sums up so much. It sums up this entire list. It sums up my pastoral ministry. It sums up my life's purpose. One of the greatest things God has done for me, over my life, is to help me simplify what can be very complicated. It is very hard, but it is somewhat simple. Wherever I am in my walk with Jesus, I need to identify it and then take the next step. When I am working with other people, I need to help them identify where they are with Jesus, and then help them take the next step.
I have many more steps to take, and I fail often. But it has helped me tremendously to focus on what is in front of me, what I can control; and on what God is calling me to do. If I can continue to live in that mindset, in ministry, family and life, then I believe I will be honoring God with my life, and He will see me as successful.
Lesson 20: I have learned to take the next step
This sums up so much. It sums up this entire list. It sums up my pastoral ministry. It sums up my life's purpose. One of the greatest things God has done for me, over my life, is to help me simplify what can be very complicated. It is very hard, but it is somewhat simple. Wherever I am in my walk with Jesus, I need to identify it and then take the next step. When I am working with other people, I need to help them identify where they are with Jesus, and then help them take the next step.
I have many more steps to take, and I fail often. But it has helped me tremendously to focus on what is in front of me, what I can control; and on what God is calling me to do. If I can continue to live in that mindset, in ministry, family and life, then I believe I will be honoring God with my life, and He will see me as successful.
Sunday, May 25, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 19
Lesson 19: I have learned to let people go gracefully
As a pastor, one of the harder things to do is let people go, once they have decided to leave the church. If they are moving out of the area, for whatever reason, it is not as hard. But, if they are choosing to leave the church you pastor, it is hard not to take it personally. Unfortunately, it is a part of life and ministry, and I don't know of any pastor, regardless of church size, that has not experienced it. I suppose there are times of rejoicing when certain people leave the church; but for most of us, as shepherds who love our people, we wish they would stay and grow spiritually with us.
I wish I could say, that after 20 years of ministry, it is now easy to see people choose to leave the church I lead. But it is not. It still hurts to think that they are choosing to disconnect themselves with this particular fellowship, and our purpose of making disciples in our church, community and world. And certainly, people leave churches for good and bad reasons. What I have found is that the challenge lies with me: how am I going to respond to their leaving; and how am I going to lead our church in responding in a Christ-like way?
And this is what God has given me, through my brother, and through others I am sure: "We are not losing them to the Kingdom." I love that phrase, I love that thought, I love that truth. When we focus on "losing them", we think about discouraging thoughts like: "they must not like us; what did we do wrong; what is this going to do to our church; what are others going to think, etc." But these are all selfish type thoughts, not God-centered, not gospel-centered, not discipleship centered. The truth, assuming that they are followers of Jesus, is that we have not lost them to the Kingdom.
Instead of trying to figure out motives or make assessments, we leave them in God's hands. We believe that God can move them, when He desires, where He desires, and for His own purposes. God is going to put them, just like us, in just the right place, to do His work for this time. I believe that God, right now, has every pastor and every person in the church He wants them to be in, so that His plan and will can be accomplished in our lives. That includes some of the tough growing opportunities when we are with people who challenge us, or even do wrong in our midst.
This is not about having a continually growing, happy, problem free, comfortable church. This is about having a church focused on discipleship, and willing to accept anyone and release anyone that God brings to us or takes away. God gives and He takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord! If we can have that perspective, then we can let people go gracefully. There does not need to be nasty e-mails, or gossip, bitterness, or division. There can be a grace filled celebration, that although we are sad at their going, we are excited about what God has planned for them, and for us in the future. We can bless them as they go.
As a pastor, one of the harder things to do is let people go, once they have decided to leave the church. If they are moving out of the area, for whatever reason, it is not as hard. But, if they are choosing to leave the church you pastor, it is hard not to take it personally. Unfortunately, it is a part of life and ministry, and I don't know of any pastor, regardless of church size, that has not experienced it. I suppose there are times of rejoicing when certain people leave the church; but for most of us, as shepherds who love our people, we wish they would stay and grow spiritually with us.
I wish I could say, that after 20 years of ministry, it is now easy to see people choose to leave the church I lead. But it is not. It still hurts to think that they are choosing to disconnect themselves with this particular fellowship, and our purpose of making disciples in our church, community and world. And certainly, people leave churches for good and bad reasons. What I have found is that the challenge lies with me: how am I going to respond to their leaving; and how am I going to lead our church in responding in a Christ-like way?
And this is what God has given me, through my brother, and through others I am sure: "We are not losing them to the Kingdom." I love that phrase, I love that thought, I love that truth. When we focus on "losing them", we think about discouraging thoughts like: "they must not like us; what did we do wrong; what is this going to do to our church; what are others going to think, etc." But these are all selfish type thoughts, not God-centered, not gospel-centered, not discipleship centered. The truth, assuming that they are followers of Jesus, is that we have not lost them to the Kingdom.
Instead of trying to figure out motives or make assessments, we leave them in God's hands. We believe that God can move them, when He desires, where He desires, and for His own purposes. God is going to put them, just like us, in just the right place, to do His work for this time. I believe that God, right now, has every pastor and every person in the church He wants them to be in, so that His plan and will can be accomplished in our lives. That includes some of the tough growing opportunities when we are with people who challenge us, or even do wrong in our midst.
This is not about having a continually growing, happy, problem free, comfortable church. This is about having a church focused on discipleship, and willing to accept anyone and release anyone that God brings to us or takes away. God gives and He takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord! If we can have that perspective, then we can let people go gracefully. There does not need to be nasty e-mails, or gossip, bitterness, or division. There can be a grace filled celebration, that although we are sad at their going, we are excited about what God has planned for them, and for us in the future. We can bless them as they go.
Saturday, May 17, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 18
Lesson 18: I have learned that success in ministry is simple
Sounds unbelievable doesn't it? Most everyone I know in ministry, or who has ever been in ministry, including myself, might first look at this statement and respond: no it's not! But, over these 20 years in ministry, I have truly come to believer that true success in ministry is, actually, simple. I know I need to explain. I haven't always believed that.
No matter how hard I tried over the years to believe that true ministry success was about faithfulness to God and His calling, I think I really believed what I had been told, was reading and heard at conferences: true ministry success is about numerical growth and being considered a large church. Even large churches and "successful" pastors will try to avoid this statement, but by what they say and write; and how they respond to smaller churches, it is the message that comes across loud and clear. It is all about helping a church plant or smaller, more traditional church, turn around and become a growing, larger church. And the pastors that are able to do it, are the ones sought after, to write the books, speak at the conferences, and counsel the unsuccessful pastors how to be successful.
Just in case you think I am against larger churches, or pastors of larger churches, it is not true. I actually am impressed by larger churches that are faithful to God's Word and that are making disciples at home as well as around the world. I love reading and hearing from larger church pastors, that include some of my favorite authors, friends and even an awesome brother! The ones I love and am impressed with are the ones who don't try to make themselves superstars. They make it all about the glory of God and making disciples. If they come across wrongly, it is not because they are intending to. It may just be the way we smaller church pastors hear and perceive things.You can be a growing church and successful at the same time.
But here is what I learned. It has nothing to do with numerical growth. I know the arguments that disagree with that statement, but I am not going to take the time, here, to debunk them. I just believe this is true. I have experienced the pursuit, albeit with a desire just to honor God and make disciples, of trying to read the right books, follow the right counsel, and do everything I could, with God's power and guidance, to grow a church and see it become large for the glory of God. But He didn't allow it to happen. Some might say it because of how sinful I am. Some might say it is because of my lack of leadership skills. I have come to believe that neither of those statements are true. I might be wrong by the way! I believe it is something else.
I believe it is God's will for me and the churches I have led, that our success has not been in the numbers, or incredible growth that would lead anyone to call us a large successful church. Instead, my success, our success, has come from something very simple. Now notice I didn't say success was easy. It is not. It takes a everything you have to invest in it. But, in the end, being successful in God's eyes is very simple. I don't disagree, as other small church pastors have said in the past, that it is all about faithfulness. But, I like to think in different terms, even if it gets to the same meaning.
I believe successful ministry is simple: Doing, at the moment, what God has called you to do.
So, this included all the aspects of ministry, that might or might not lead to numerical growth. It includes seeing ministry from a full biblical perspective rather than from the perspective of the church or other "successful" pastors out there. It is about focusing on God's perspective in His Word. And when I focus on that, I come away with this: Doing, at the moment, what God has called me to do. That includes some tough things like confession of sin, admission of weakness and confrontation, just to name a few. But it also includes some very joyful experiences such as preaching, leadership and investing in people's lives for eternity.
It is a lesson I have learned and am still learning. If I am right and this is true success, than even I have the chance that one day Jesus will look at this small church pastor in the eyes, open His arms and say: Well done, good and faithful servant!
Sounds unbelievable doesn't it? Most everyone I know in ministry, or who has ever been in ministry, including myself, might first look at this statement and respond: no it's not! But, over these 20 years in ministry, I have truly come to believer that true success in ministry is, actually, simple. I know I need to explain. I haven't always believed that.
No matter how hard I tried over the years to believe that true ministry success was about faithfulness to God and His calling, I think I really believed what I had been told, was reading and heard at conferences: true ministry success is about numerical growth and being considered a large church. Even large churches and "successful" pastors will try to avoid this statement, but by what they say and write; and how they respond to smaller churches, it is the message that comes across loud and clear. It is all about helping a church plant or smaller, more traditional church, turn around and become a growing, larger church. And the pastors that are able to do it, are the ones sought after, to write the books, speak at the conferences, and counsel the unsuccessful pastors how to be successful.
Just in case you think I am against larger churches, or pastors of larger churches, it is not true. I actually am impressed by larger churches that are faithful to God's Word and that are making disciples at home as well as around the world. I love reading and hearing from larger church pastors, that include some of my favorite authors, friends and even an awesome brother! The ones I love and am impressed with are the ones who don't try to make themselves superstars. They make it all about the glory of God and making disciples. If they come across wrongly, it is not because they are intending to. It may just be the way we smaller church pastors hear and perceive things.You can be a growing church and successful at the same time.
But here is what I learned. It has nothing to do with numerical growth. I know the arguments that disagree with that statement, but I am not going to take the time, here, to debunk them. I just believe this is true. I have experienced the pursuit, albeit with a desire just to honor God and make disciples, of trying to read the right books, follow the right counsel, and do everything I could, with God's power and guidance, to grow a church and see it become large for the glory of God. But He didn't allow it to happen. Some might say it because of how sinful I am. Some might say it is because of my lack of leadership skills. I have come to believe that neither of those statements are true. I might be wrong by the way! I believe it is something else.
I believe it is God's will for me and the churches I have led, that our success has not been in the numbers, or incredible growth that would lead anyone to call us a large successful church. Instead, my success, our success, has come from something very simple. Now notice I didn't say success was easy. It is not. It takes a everything you have to invest in it. But, in the end, being successful in God's eyes is very simple. I don't disagree, as other small church pastors have said in the past, that it is all about faithfulness. But, I like to think in different terms, even if it gets to the same meaning.
I believe successful ministry is simple: Doing, at the moment, what God has called you to do.
So, this included all the aspects of ministry, that might or might not lead to numerical growth. It includes seeing ministry from a full biblical perspective rather than from the perspective of the church or other "successful" pastors out there. It is about focusing on God's perspective in His Word. And when I focus on that, I come away with this: Doing, at the moment, what God has called me to do. That includes some tough things like confession of sin, admission of weakness and confrontation, just to name a few. But it also includes some very joyful experiences such as preaching, leadership and investing in people's lives for eternity.
It is a lesson I have learned and am still learning. If I am right and this is true success, than even I have the chance that one day Jesus will look at this small church pastor in the eyes, open His arms and say: Well done, good and faithful servant!
Saturday, May 10, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 17
Lesson 17: I have learned to have an open hand approach to ministry and everything else
Over the past few years, this is how I have described to people how I view the ministry God has given me, as well as every thing and every relationship. Since everything I have, including ministry, is God-given, then it all belongs to Him. That is easier to say than to actually practice. It is human nature for all of us, and that certainly includes me, to hold tightly to the things we value. For many years, I held tightly to pastoral ministry. Since that is what God called me to, I seemed gifted for it and I loved it, I never wanted to let it go. And when God tested me, to see if I was willing to let it go, I just tightened my grip even more. God had to teach me, the hard way, that I needed to hold everything He had given me with an open hand.
I picture it this way. Put your hand out in front of you, open-handed. Imagine your closest relationship or task or job or hobby or material possession in that hand. Close your fist tightly. This is how I used to approach ministry, and even my family. But, as some have learned in even the most precious of relationships, God sometimes takes them away; and there is nothing we can do about it. It is very difficult to come to the place that Job came to, after losing his 10 children in death, he said: "The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord." Only a person who has an open hand approach can sincerely say something like that when something of great value is taken away. I had to face if I was willing to do that with ministry.
Now, open your hand once again and picture that most precious thing in your hand. Extend your arm and your hand outward and upward. Picture yourself saying to God: Lord, My __________________
(fill in the blank with the appropriate thing - i.e. job, family, health, etc.) is yours. It has always been yours. It is not mine to hold onto. It is for me to be a good steward of this gift you have given me. I love it, but it is still yours. You can take it from me at any time. I will not fight you over it. Until then, I will be grateful that I have it, value it as a precious gift; and do my best to be the best steward of it, as long as you allow me to have it.
That prayer sums up what I have learned to do, as it relates to a particular ministry, or even ministry all together. I am also learning to do that with my wife and children. How about you?
Over the past few years, this is how I have described to people how I view the ministry God has given me, as well as every thing and every relationship. Since everything I have, including ministry, is God-given, then it all belongs to Him. That is easier to say than to actually practice. It is human nature for all of us, and that certainly includes me, to hold tightly to the things we value. For many years, I held tightly to pastoral ministry. Since that is what God called me to, I seemed gifted for it and I loved it, I never wanted to let it go. And when God tested me, to see if I was willing to let it go, I just tightened my grip even more. God had to teach me, the hard way, that I needed to hold everything He had given me with an open hand.
I picture it this way. Put your hand out in front of you, open-handed. Imagine your closest relationship or task or job or hobby or material possession in that hand. Close your fist tightly. This is how I used to approach ministry, and even my family. But, as some have learned in even the most precious of relationships, God sometimes takes them away; and there is nothing we can do about it. It is very difficult to come to the place that Job came to, after losing his 10 children in death, he said: "The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord." Only a person who has an open hand approach can sincerely say something like that when something of great value is taken away. I had to face if I was willing to do that with ministry.
Now, open your hand once again and picture that most precious thing in your hand. Extend your arm and your hand outward and upward. Picture yourself saying to God: Lord, My __________________
(fill in the blank with the appropriate thing - i.e. job, family, health, etc.) is yours. It has always been yours. It is not mine to hold onto. It is for me to be a good steward of this gift you have given me. I love it, but it is still yours. You can take it from me at any time. I will not fight you over it. Until then, I will be grateful that I have it, value it as a precious gift; and do my best to be the best steward of it, as long as you allow me to have it.
That prayer sums up what I have learned to do, as it relates to a particular ministry, or even ministry all together. I am also learning to do that with my wife and children. How about you?
Saturday, April 26, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 16
Lesson 16: I have learned to rest
Growing up, resting was not something that was highly valued; except on Sunday, the day of rest! But instead, hard work was valued, and by watching my dad give everything he had to everything he did, I learned some very good, important lessons about life. I have carried some of that work ethic with me into ministry. I take it very seriously and I give myself to it, completely, while I am doing it. Ministry, and especially pastoral ministry, is one of those occupations where you are not on a time clock, from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Since it is a people kind of job, you are always "on call", so to speak, and the work is never done. I have learned to work really hard at every aspect of the pastoring role.
What I have found to be the most challenging, as it relates to giving effort, time and everything into ministry, the hardest part is getting the needed rest. With a high value on working hard; and with everyone expecting different things from a pastor, it is way too easy to work too much, to get burned out; and end up not being effective at any role, including being a pastor, husband, father and friend. I have learned to value rest, so that I can do, effectively, everything God has called me to do (not necessarily the things I or others would like for me to do). With that said, here some aspects of resting that I have learned and continue to learn along the way:
Now, go take a nap!
Growing up, resting was not something that was highly valued; except on Sunday, the day of rest! But instead, hard work was valued, and by watching my dad give everything he had to everything he did, I learned some very good, important lessons about life. I have carried some of that work ethic with me into ministry. I take it very seriously and I give myself to it, completely, while I am doing it. Ministry, and especially pastoral ministry, is one of those occupations where you are not on a time clock, from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Since it is a people kind of job, you are always "on call", so to speak, and the work is never done. I have learned to work really hard at every aspect of the pastoring role.
What I have found to be the most challenging, as it relates to giving effort, time and everything into ministry, the hardest part is getting the needed rest. With a high value on working hard; and with everyone expecting different things from a pastor, it is way too easy to work too much, to get burned out; and end up not being effective at any role, including being a pastor, husband, father and friend. I have learned to value rest, so that I can do, effectively, everything God has called me to do (not necessarily the things I or others would like for me to do). With that said, here some aspects of resting that I have learned and continue to learn along the way:
- Since Sunday is not a day of rest for pastors, then I take a different day of the week, to cease from work (even ministry), and just be available to my family.
- Every day, I seek spiritual rest by spending time in prayer and Bible reading with God
- Every night, I work at getting needed physical rest, by getting to bed at a good time for me, and getting the rest I know I need to be effective.
- There are days when I just know that if I don't take a few minutes to sit, relax, or even 5 minutes to close my eyes and rest, I will not be able to focus on the rest of the day, or be productive moving forward.
- I make it a priority to take the vacation time that the church gives me. And during vacation, I do my very best to focus on my family and getting refreshed, putting all work aside.
Now, go take a nap!
Friday, April 18, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 15
Lesson 15: I have learned to maximize spiritual growth opportunities for our church
This may be one of those high on the list that I have a great deal of learning left to do. In fact, as soon as I wrote it, I began to doubt it because I can think of several times that I have missed opportunities. And I have no doubt that people who have attended the churches where I have pastored would have a list, as well, of missed or misused opportunities. If I were to give the longer version of this lesson, it would be this: I have learned to use the times of our culture and traditions of church life to maximize spiritual growth and meaningful worship.
Let me give you some examples of this, so you know what I am referring to. When there was a presidential election in 2012, and Christians were very upset about 1 of the candidates, I preached a message on: "Who Would Jesus Vote For". It was not pushing for people to vote for a particular candidate, but instead to get God's perspective on politics (which is really a perspective on God's sovereignty and purpose) from the Bible. When someone in our church committed suicide, I preached about this very sensitive topic. There have been times, because of circumstances in our church or world, I have taken the opportunity to allow God's Word to speak directly to them. This includes other topics such as homosexuality, Hell, worship music, and church leadership structure.
The opportunities that are more well known would be the seasons and days people normally celebrate, such as: Christmas, Easter, Good Friday, Mother's and Father's Day, Memorial Day, New Year's Day, etc. I actually have taken a little different approach with many of these, not preaching an entire message on the topic that connects with the day; but instead taking time in the worship service to recognize the significance of it. This includes videos, testimonies and times of prayer. My desire, in whatever we do, is to give a fresh perspective and point people's hearts and minds toward God in the context of the special season or day.
My most current examples come from this weekend. Tonight is Good Friday and we are marking it with a special worship service. Many churches celebrate Good Friday, or Maundy Thursday, or Holy Week, or Lent, or all of the above. Many others allow their people to celebrate these at home and just focus on Easter Sunday. To me, it is all about sensing God's direction and making it meaningful, whichever days we choose to focus on. Tonight, we will use a video, lots of music, a 2 part "message", and communion to give special meaning to Good Friday. The goal is to point everyone'e heart and mind to worship God for sending Jesus, over 2,000 years ago, to die for us. It is a good preparation for what will we celebrate on Sunday.
In my 2 part "message", I will be trying to get us in the thinking of what the original disciples may have remembered about that last supper and day of crucifixion, when they reflected on it in the days to come. I will use "first person" language to talk about those days, and support it with Scripture. The last thing we will do is celebrate communion and we will do it in a reflective, personal way. While the worship team plays a song about Jesus dying for us, the bread will be passed out and people can personally pray and partake of it when they are ready. While a second song plays, the cup will be passed out and we will do the same thing. When those songs end, music will play over the sound system, and when individuals are ready to leave, they can leave quietly. If they want to talk, they can go downstairs; but it will allow every person to remain as long as they would like; and it makes it a very personal worship time as we close the service.
On Sunday, Easter Sunday, Resurrection Sunday, we will be having a joint service at a nearby auditorium. Having 1 service instead of 3 in our tiny worship center will help with the environment of a celebratory Easter worship gathering. And to make it meaningful, we are doing something different this year. We will sing many songs, as usual, and we will use a video to get people's attention toward who and what we are worshiping on Sunday. The main different will be in the message time. Some years ago, I wrote a script that we used on Easter Sunday; and I re-wrote it for this year, to be used in my present ministry.
It is a courtroom setting and is entitled: The Verdict. It uses a judge, 2 attorneys, and 6 "eye witnesses", to look back 2,000 years and ago, in order to determine if Jesus really did rise from the dead. The audience is the jury, and at the end, they will be asked to mark their verdict cards and make their own decision. Their decision on the resurrection of Jesus can make a huge different as to whether or not they will follow Him and how they will live the rest of their lives. We expect to have guests present that have not yet made that decision; and we pray God might use this fresh approach to change their hearts and lives!
There is so much more for me to learn in this area; but these are some examples of how I am trying to take advantage, for spiritual growth purposes, of special events and seasons in the lives of our people.
This may be one of those high on the list that I have a great deal of learning left to do. In fact, as soon as I wrote it, I began to doubt it because I can think of several times that I have missed opportunities. And I have no doubt that people who have attended the churches where I have pastored would have a list, as well, of missed or misused opportunities. If I were to give the longer version of this lesson, it would be this: I have learned to use the times of our culture and traditions of church life to maximize spiritual growth and meaningful worship.
Let me give you some examples of this, so you know what I am referring to. When there was a presidential election in 2012, and Christians were very upset about 1 of the candidates, I preached a message on: "Who Would Jesus Vote For". It was not pushing for people to vote for a particular candidate, but instead to get God's perspective on politics (which is really a perspective on God's sovereignty and purpose) from the Bible. When someone in our church committed suicide, I preached about this very sensitive topic. There have been times, because of circumstances in our church or world, I have taken the opportunity to allow God's Word to speak directly to them. This includes other topics such as homosexuality, Hell, worship music, and church leadership structure.
The opportunities that are more well known would be the seasons and days people normally celebrate, such as: Christmas, Easter, Good Friday, Mother's and Father's Day, Memorial Day, New Year's Day, etc. I actually have taken a little different approach with many of these, not preaching an entire message on the topic that connects with the day; but instead taking time in the worship service to recognize the significance of it. This includes videos, testimonies and times of prayer. My desire, in whatever we do, is to give a fresh perspective and point people's hearts and minds toward God in the context of the special season or day.
My most current examples come from this weekend. Tonight is Good Friday and we are marking it with a special worship service. Many churches celebrate Good Friday, or Maundy Thursday, or Holy Week, or Lent, or all of the above. Many others allow their people to celebrate these at home and just focus on Easter Sunday. To me, it is all about sensing God's direction and making it meaningful, whichever days we choose to focus on. Tonight, we will use a video, lots of music, a 2 part "message", and communion to give special meaning to Good Friday. The goal is to point everyone'e heart and mind to worship God for sending Jesus, over 2,000 years ago, to die for us. It is a good preparation for what will we celebrate on Sunday.
In my 2 part "message", I will be trying to get us in the thinking of what the original disciples may have remembered about that last supper and day of crucifixion, when they reflected on it in the days to come. I will use "first person" language to talk about those days, and support it with Scripture. The last thing we will do is celebrate communion and we will do it in a reflective, personal way. While the worship team plays a song about Jesus dying for us, the bread will be passed out and people can personally pray and partake of it when they are ready. While a second song plays, the cup will be passed out and we will do the same thing. When those songs end, music will play over the sound system, and when individuals are ready to leave, they can leave quietly. If they want to talk, they can go downstairs; but it will allow every person to remain as long as they would like; and it makes it a very personal worship time as we close the service.
On Sunday, Easter Sunday, Resurrection Sunday, we will be having a joint service at a nearby auditorium. Having 1 service instead of 3 in our tiny worship center will help with the environment of a celebratory Easter worship gathering. And to make it meaningful, we are doing something different this year. We will sing many songs, as usual, and we will use a video to get people's attention toward who and what we are worshiping on Sunday. The main different will be in the message time. Some years ago, I wrote a script that we used on Easter Sunday; and I re-wrote it for this year, to be used in my present ministry.
It is a courtroom setting and is entitled: The Verdict. It uses a judge, 2 attorneys, and 6 "eye witnesses", to look back 2,000 years and ago, in order to determine if Jesus really did rise from the dead. The audience is the jury, and at the end, they will be asked to mark their verdict cards and make their own decision. Their decision on the resurrection of Jesus can make a huge different as to whether or not they will follow Him and how they will live the rest of their lives. We expect to have guests present that have not yet made that decision; and we pray God might use this fresh approach to change their hearts and lives!
There is so much more for me to learn in this area; but these are some examples of how I am trying to take advantage, for spiritual growth purposes, of special events and seasons in the lives of our people.
Monday, April 14, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 14
Lesson 14: I have learned to pray
If you have read any of my previous posts about the lessons I have learned, then you already know that I don't think I have fully arrived on any of these. Prayer is one of those things that we all could improve on. I haven't met one person yet, in my almost half a century of life, who have said that they are fully satisfied with their "prayer life" and they have no improvements to make in that area!
I have certainly learned a variety of things about prayer over the years. I have prayed in many different ways through the years as well. There are many good resources that can help us with prayer. But, the one thing I have learned, that has helped me the most, has nothing to do with acrostic helps or books or conferences or prayer positions. It has to do with an attitude, a posture, a mindset that is about consistency.
In learning to pray, the one verse that comes to mind is:
I Thessalonians 5:17 - "Pray continually"
There has been many thoughts given as it relates to this phrase; but the one thing that has stuck in my mind and heart; and has been lived out in practice, is the main thing I have learned about praying.
It is personal. It is conversational. It is real.
What I have learned is to talk to God as I would to anyone else in relationship. The differences are that God is Spirit, I can talk to Him anytime, and it is the most important relationship to me. I can talk to Him in the car, in bed, in the shower, anytime, anywhere. I find myself talking to God ALL THE TIME! And that has helped me, incredibly, in keeping God in mind and including Him in every aspect of my life. I find myself confessing my sins more often, keeping focus on the right things more often, and even keeping God's Word in mind much more readily.
I sing to Him, I cry out to Him, and I sometimes find myself getting upset, as the authors of some of the Psalms often do. I am learning to be real with God; and as far as I am concerned, that is prayer!
If you have read any of my previous posts about the lessons I have learned, then you already know that I don't think I have fully arrived on any of these. Prayer is one of those things that we all could improve on. I haven't met one person yet, in my almost half a century of life, who have said that they are fully satisfied with their "prayer life" and they have no improvements to make in that area!
I have certainly learned a variety of things about prayer over the years. I have prayed in many different ways through the years as well. There are many good resources that can help us with prayer. But, the one thing I have learned, that has helped me the most, has nothing to do with acrostic helps or books or conferences or prayer positions. It has to do with an attitude, a posture, a mindset that is about consistency.
In learning to pray, the one verse that comes to mind is:
I Thessalonians 5:17 - "Pray continually"
There has been many thoughts given as it relates to this phrase; but the one thing that has stuck in my mind and heart; and has been lived out in practice, is the main thing I have learned about praying.
It is personal. It is conversational. It is real.
What I have learned is to talk to God as I would to anyone else in relationship. The differences are that God is Spirit, I can talk to Him anytime, and it is the most important relationship to me. I can talk to Him in the car, in bed, in the shower, anytime, anywhere. I find myself talking to God ALL THE TIME! And that has helped me, incredibly, in keeping God in mind and including Him in every aspect of my life. I find myself confessing my sins more often, keeping focus on the right things more often, and even keeping God's Word in mind much more readily.
I sing to Him, I cry out to Him, and I sometimes find myself getting upset, as the authors of some of the Psalms often do. I am learning to be real with God; and as far as I am concerned, that is prayer!
Saturday, April 5, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 13
20 years seems like a really long time; but as others as old as I can attest, it goes very, very quickly! It is hard to remember all the details of all of these years as a pastor, and yet there are many lessons that come to mind, as I think and pray about it all. I am a continual learner, and with every lesson I am reminded that all of these things can be unlearned if not practiced. When I say "I have learned", it is true; but it is equally true I am still learning these very things.
Lesson 13: I have learned to recognize and say what God wants me to say
I am sure that all who follow Jesus would say it is important to recognize what God wants us to do and say; and then to do it. I would think that most would also admit that although this seems pretty simple, it is almost never easy. Additionally, if we really do what God wants, it doesn't mean that everyone else will like it. In fact, just as with Jesus Himself, when you do and say what God directs, it may bring very a very critical and negative reaction; even from those closest to you, even from those who claim to believe in and follow God. Following Jesus completely is full of tough choices; especially as it relates to doing and saying everything God directs us to do and say.
When it comes to being a pastor, a communicator of God's Word, I find this especially tricky. Unless someone has been in this role, it may be hard to fully understand what extra challenges pastors face in this area of what to say - especially in public preaching/teaching. There are a couple of other very real challenges to add to the challenge of my role. I like to please people. I want people to like me. It is very hard for me to say something that I fear others may not like. Add to this the fact that my personality lends itself to blending in rather than sticking out and being noticed. I know this sounds strange for a pastor who speaks in front of crowds every week; but it is true. Therefore, although I like to be creative in my preaching, when possible, I want people to remember God's truth and not my theatrics, so to speak.
I have failed often, but one thing I have learned (and am learning) is to recognize what God wants me to say and then to say it. I have to do that without worrying about the consequences. When I am communicating God's Word, it is up to me to be His messenger and represent Him. Therefore, I pray, not only about what to preach, but how to preach it. And this also includes sensitive issues and times of counseling and tough conversations. There have been many times when I recognize that what I believe God wants me to say is not going to go over well; and I have to make a decision: is this about pleasing people or about pleasing God.
This is a continual lesson to learn. Whether in preaching or counseling or leading or casual conversation, I desire that God will be pleased. And in those circumstances where others will not, I will commit myself and others into God's hands; and suffer any consequences - for His glory! This is really what God has called all of us to do. If we do and say, in our world, what He has asked, we will suffer, in some way; and yet God will smile, and someday give us our reward: Well done, good and faithful servant!
Lesson 13: I have learned to recognize and say what God wants me to say
I am sure that all who follow Jesus would say it is important to recognize what God wants us to do and say; and then to do it. I would think that most would also admit that although this seems pretty simple, it is almost never easy. Additionally, if we really do what God wants, it doesn't mean that everyone else will like it. In fact, just as with Jesus Himself, when you do and say what God directs, it may bring very a very critical and negative reaction; even from those closest to you, even from those who claim to believe in and follow God. Following Jesus completely is full of tough choices; especially as it relates to doing and saying everything God directs us to do and say.
When it comes to being a pastor, a communicator of God's Word, I find this especially tricky. Unless someone has been in this role, it may be hard to fully understand what extra challenges pastors face in this area of what to say - especially in public preaching/teaching. There are a couple of other very real challenges to add to the challenge of my role. I like to please people. I want people to like me. It is very hard for me to say something that I fear others may not like. Add to this the fact that my personality lends itself to blending in rather than sticking out and being noticed. I know this sounds strange for a pastor who speaks in front of crowds every week; but it is true. Therefore, although I like to be creative in my preaching, when possible, I want people to remember God's truth and not my theatrics, so to speak.
I have failed often, but one thing I have learned (and am learning) is to recognize what God wants me to say and then to say it. I have to do that without worrying about the consequences. When I am communicating God's Word, it is up to me to be His messenger and represent Him. Therefore, I pray, not only about what to preach, but how to preach it. And this also includes sensitive issues and times of counseling and tough conversations. There have been many times when I recognize that what I believe God wants me to say is not going to go over well; and I have to make a decision: is this about pleasing people or about pleasing God.
This is a continual lesson to learn. Whether in preaching or counseling or leading or casual conversation, I desire that God will be pleased. And in those circumstances where others will not, I will commit myself and others into God's hands; and suffer any consequences - for His glory! This is really what God has called all of us to do. If we do and say, in our world, what He has asked, we will suffer, in some way; and yet God will smile, and someday give us our reward: Well done, good and faithful servant!
Saturday, March 29, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 12
Lesson 12: I have learned to repent
Lesson 11 was about learning to repeat; and this idea of repenting is certainly something I have had to repeat, and repeat, and repeat again. At first sound, the word repent sounds like something that should be reserved for those terrible sinners who need to repent before they spend eternity in Hell. It has the ring of a street preacher who is yelling the word incessantly. It has the image of a sidewalk protester who is holding a sign using the word repent connected to something they disagree with; and God might as well. But the idea of repentance, the biblical idea, is stronger and broader in its application that Christians have traditionally viewed it.
Repentance is about change. It is a change of mind. It is a change of direction. It is different than confession. To confess means to "say the same thing". In biblical context, when we confess our sins, we are saying that we agree with how God views our actions, our words, our thoughts - that they are against Him, in violation of His Word. We might even list the specific sins, but it is in the agreement we have about those sins that there is true confession. There is a difference between a child, for example, who agrees at a parents insistence that she did not tell the truth, and actually saying the same thing about her lying that God does - agreeing with God about it.
Repentance takes this a crucial step further. Repentance focuses on a 180 degree turn. If you were going in the direction of lying, you know turn the opposite direction and start telling the truth, even becoming known as a truth teller. Repentance is not just a one time confessing of sin, but the beginning of living in opposition to that sin - a real heart and life change. This is only something God's Spirit can do; but it also includes our willingness to be changed, to live differently. We think about it differently, and pursue a very different path as it relates to that particular thing.
Repentance is for non-believers as they first come to Christ and their lives are forever changed. But repentance is also for believers, as we continue to struggle with sin, our old nature, and need to constantly turn from it. Repentance is for pastors, who are real people, real followers of Jesus, and need real, continual repentance. This took me a long time to realize and to put into action in my life. I thought repentance would bring criticism and disappointment from others, and bring shame to God. I thought repentance would take me out of ministry, especially if I was repenting about something that people didn't think pastors should struggle with.
I have learned to repent. And in doing so, there are some key aspects that have helped me in the continual process of repentance:
Lesson 11 was about learning to repeat; and this idea of repenting is certainly something I have had to repeat, and repeat, and repeat again. At first sound, the word repent sounds like something that should be reserved for those terrible sinners who need to repent before they spend eternity in Hell. It has the ring of a street preacher who is yelling the word incessantly. It has the image of a sidewalk protester who is holding a sign using the word repent connected to something they disagree with; and God might as well. But the idea of repentance, the biblical idea, is stronger and broader in its application that Christians have traditionally viewed it.
Repentance is about change. It is a change of mind. It is a change of direction. It is different than confession. To confess means to "say the same thing". In biblical context, when we confess our sins, we are saying that we agree with how God views our actions, our words, our thoughts - that they are against Him, in violation of His Word. We might even list the specific sins, but it is in the agreement we have about those sins that there is true confession. There is a difference between a child, for example, who agrees at a parents insistence that she did not tell the truth, and actually saying the same thing about her lying that God does - agreeing with God about it.
Repentance takes this a crucial step further. Repentance focuses on a 180 degree turn. If you were going in the direction of lying, you know turn the opposite direction and start telling the truth, even becoming known as a truth teller. Repentance is not just a one time confessing of sin, but the beginning of living in opposition to that sin - a real heart and life change. This is only something God's Spirit can do; but it also includes our willingness to be changed, to live differently. We think about it differently, and pursue a very different path as it relates to that particular thing.
Repentance is for non-believers as they first come to Christ and their lives are forever changed. But repentance is also for believers, as we continue to struggle with sin, our old nature, and need to constantly turn from it. Repentance is for pastors, who are real people, real followers of Jesus, and need real, continual repentance. This took me a long time to realize and to put into action in my life. I thought repentance would bring criticism and disappointment from others, and bring shame to God. I thought repentance would take me out of ministry, especially if I was repenting about something that people didn't think pastors should struggle with.
I have learned to repent. And in doing so, there are some key aspects that have helped me in the continual process of repentance:
- It is about pleasing God not impressing others
- True repentance brings God's blessing, despite the consequences from others
- Modeling true repentance is one of the most important things you can do for your children and the people of the church you serve
- The more secret, the more scandalized, the more sensitive the sin, the more important it is to bring it out into the light and turn from it
- I must die to myself daily; and often that will require for me to turn from sin - for the long haul - to live differently. The process will not end until I see Jesus.
- It is not about shame, but about bringing glory to God, and boasting in the cross of Jesus!
Sunday, March 23, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 11
Lesson 11: I have learned to repeat, I have learned to repeat, I have learned to repeat...
Repetition is a good thing. Most teachers I know have not only taught that but practiced it. This is how I have learned what I have learned, and still remember different things today - because it was repeated. It makes sense. The same is true in all areas of life and ministry. And over these 20 years of being a pastor, I have learned that I need to repeat things, and that it is not only o.k. to repeat, but crucial to learning and application. So, when I am tempted to feel badly that I am saying something again and again and again, I try to remember that saying it again is the reason why it is being learned and applied. Saying it once and thinking it will stick is naïve.
One of the cool things I have seen over the years is people talking about and doing some of the things I have repeated and repeated and repeated. Without initiating it myself, it is rewarding when I realize that what I have repeated is now being repeated by others. And as long as what is repeated is honoring to God, and furthers His purposes, then it is all good! So, having learned that (or still learning it), I thought I would repeat my first 10 lessons learned from these 20 years of ministry. And perhaps, as you re-read this list, it may encourage or challenge you with the things God has been teaching you. I know it was helpful for me just to read these again:
Lesson 1: I have learned to boast in God, my weaknesses, and the cross of Jesus
Lesson 2: I have learned to be transparent
Lesson 3: I have learned to preach to myself before preaching to others
Lesson 4: I have learned to give people and the hurtful things they say, to God
Lesson 5: I have learned that everyone need to be disciple
Lesson 6: I have learned that this is God's church
Lesson 7: I have learned to listen
Lesson 8: I have learned to worship
Lesson 9: I have learned to be at home at night
Lesson 10: I have learned what I thought I learned I haven't learned
Repetition is a good thing. Most teachers I know have not only taught that but practiced it. This is how I have learned what I have learned, and still remember different things today - because it was repeated. It makes sense. The same is true in all areas of life and ministry. And over these 20 years of being a pastor, I have learned that I need to repeat things, and that it is not only o.k. to repeat, but crucial to learning and application. So, when I am tempted to feel badly that I am saying something again and again and again, I try to remember that saying it again is the reason why it is being learned and applied. Saying it once and thinking it will stick is naïve.
One of the cool things I have seen over the years is people talking about and doing some of the things I have repeated and repeated and repeated. Without initiating it myself, it is rewarding when I realize that what I have repeated is now being repeated by others. And as long as what is repeated is honoring to God, and furthers His purposes, then it is all good! So, having learned that (or still learning it), I thought I would repeat my first 10 lessons learned from these 20 years of ministry. And perhaps, as you re-read this list, it may encourage or challenge you with the things God has been teaching you. I know it was helpful for me just to read these again:
Lesson 1: I have learned to boast in God, my weaknesses, and the cross of Jesus
Lesson 2: I have learned to be transparent
Lesson 3: I have learned to preach to myself before preaching to others
Lesson 4: I have learned to give people and the hurtful things they say, to God
Lesson 5: I have learned that everyone need to be disciple
Lesson 6: I have learned that this is God's church
Lesson 7: I have learned to listen
Lesson 8: I have learned to worship
Lesson 9: I have learned to be at home at night
Lesson 10: I have learned what I thought I learned I haven't learned
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
