R.D.'s Blog

Taking a Break

2009-01-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

My friends who read this blog, I want to thank you for being here. For the next few weeks I will be taking a break from the blog. I will be seeking the Lord and I want to ask you all to pray for me. I need to be closer to God and better able to hear his voice. Thank you again for being here and God bless.

The Awesome Words About Christ in Philippians 3

2009-01-12T11:01:00.001-08:00

Awesome is used a lot, Shelli thinks too much--and she's probably right. It is too big an adjective for the noun it usually modifies. But the Amplified Translation of Philippians 3:8-11 is awesome. I got choked up reading it yesterday. I thought I would give it to you so you could be equally choked! It is long but as I mentioned...awesome! Read it slowly.

8Yes, furthermore, I count everything as loss compared to the possession of the priceless privilege (the overwhelming preciousness, the surpassing worth, and supreme advantage) of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord and of progressively becoming more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him [of perceiving and recognizing and understanding Him more fully and clearly]. For His sake I have lost everything and consider it all to be mere rubbish (refuse, dregs), in order that I may win (gain) Christ (the Anointed One), 9And that I may [actually] be found and known as in Him, not having any [self-achieved] righteousness that can be called my own, based on my obedience to the Law's demands (ritualistic uprightness and supposed right standing with God thus acquired), but possessing that [genuine righteousness] which comes through faith in Christ (the Anointed One), the [truly] right standing with God, which comes from God by [saving] faith. 10[For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly], and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection [[a]which it exerts over believers], and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed [in spirit into His likeness even] to His death, [in the hope] 11That if possible I may attain to the [[b]spiritual and moral] resurrection [that lifts me] out from among the dead [even while in the body].
Philippians 3:8-11

The Christmas Song of the Year

2008-12-15T20:11:00.000-08:00

You have to hear the great version of "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" by Casting Crowns. Read the story in the video link below.

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/yt--150Y6Hf8ds/casting_crowns_i_heard_the_bells_on_christmas_day/

In Essence, How Was Your Christmas?

2008-12-15T11:02:00.001-08:00

In a few weeks you will ask or be asked, "How was your Christmas?" Christmases are often measured by having or not having. Whether it is the child who got their wish or the parent or gave it to them, both measure the holiday by the presence of some physical thing. But the first Christmas participants had very little of what inspires a positive response to, "How was your Christmas?"

And yet will any of us be able to answer, "How was your Christmas," with, "I was overcome with emotion?" That is what the Magi said (Matthew 2:11). Will we say that each experience was something we treasured deeply in our hearts? That is what Mary said (Luke 2:19). Will any of us say that our Christmas was so meaningful that we told all our friends about it, astonishing them with our amazing Christmas experiences? That is what the shepherds did (Luke 2:17-18). And could any of us ever say of our Christmas that it was so monumental that we can now die, happy after the experience? And yet that is what Simeon said (Luke 2:29).

Such amazing responses have never been uttered over even the most pristine of Christmas celebrations. I think it is safe to say that if we are aiming for a 'perfect' Christmas, we are settling. The first Christmas is the standard, not one on a Currier and Ives picture or the cover of Martha Stewart Living. The first Christmas shows us the essence of Christmas.

There was no money but plenty of riches. The family wasn't all in but the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were there. There was no mention of food but an adundance of fullness. The accomodations were horrendous, but there seems to be a lot of comfort. Mary and Joseph not even being married yet, the relationships were not in perfect order, but love seems to fly off the pages. There was no money for a wonderful holiday show but could any thing compare with that angel choir?

I guess what I am saying is that we spend too much time, money, and worry over what delivers far less than the first people in the Christmas story experienced--and they didn't have any of the things we worry about. If, for you, Christmas is only going to be about what you have or don't have, what is right or isn't right then you are going to set yourself up for a disappointing answer to, "How was your Christmas?" None of those things were in place in Bethlehem and yet their Christmas experience blows all of ours away.

The difference in those who celebrated the first Christmas and us is focus. They had one focus and that was connecting with Baby Jesus. They were not worried about relatives, money, or poinsettias. Seeing him, being with him, worshipping him...that was and is all that matters. That is the essence of Christmas and the only measure of, "How was your Christmas?"

Go Wolves!

2008-12-12T06:43:00.000-08:00

Congrats to the Buford Wolves on their second straight appearance in the Class AA State Championship Game today against Calhoun. It is interesting to me because when I started in youth ministry in Dalton GA I had kids in my youth group from Calhoun. They have a great program in Buford and many of our kids at The Crossing are a part of it so I am firmly on the Wolves side. They will play Calhoun at 5 today in the GA Dome...so Go Wolves!

Finding Your Way Home at Christmas

2008-12-05T06:35:00.000-08:00

This Sunday begins the holiday season at The Crossing with the theme, "Finding Your Way Home at Christmas." In the first Christmas most of the prominent players were traveling. The Magi traveled 600 miles from Persia to Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph went about 70 miles from Nazareth, and the Shepherds traveled a few miles into town from the surrounding hills of Bethlehem. And One--one very important baby--traveled quite a long way from Heaven to be the main attraction of the Christmas story.

Like many people since then, Christmas had them on the road. They all felt some deep longing strongly expressed by the simple fact that they just kept going in a time when travel was very difficult. Eyes wide open, they were searching, needing, grasping for something real but invisible--something essential but intangible. They looked like they were on a fool's errand but the world's first Scrooges did not stop them. As with many Christmas travelers since, they were finding their way home at Christmas.

In our adult lives Shelli and I have never had a Christmas without a trip. Like us, most everyone feels a very powerful longing to be home for Christmas. Sometimes, in spite of long distances, bad weather, or very little money we would joyfully head for home. Nothing was more important than getting home.
At Christmas something draws us in a similar fashion to the Lord. This season just makes us feel the need to seek the Lord. We just need to connect with our Father and find the comfort and peace of being at home in His will. Maybe you feel as far away from God as the Magi or as close to Him as Mary and Joseph were. Regardless of your distance finding your way home at Christmas is about seeing the signs that light the way. Some who were close that first Christmas ignored the signs and missed out. Others who were far away, saw the signs and experienced the greatest of joys.

This holiday season God wants you to find your way home to a closer relationship with God. We will look at the signs God is giving you and regardless of where you are you will see each week how you can find your way home at Christmas.

The Privilege of Serving Shelli

2008-12-04T07:59:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my wife Shelli had reconstructive knee surgery. One bad step on a tennis court left Shelli with a torn ACL and meniscus damage. From the time we left the hospital yesterday Shelli has been completely dependent on me for everything. For the most basic needs I have waited on her for everything. While there have been times of sickness over the years this time of recovery has been different. Since I am older now and have aging family members I can mentally time warp into Shelli and I's 'golden years' where one of us may be caring for the other. While no one can predict the future I can say that this little glimpse into a possible future has been a blessing. I am sure the heavy load that some care givers have is unimaginable and I don't mean to assume after one day of care giving that I understand. But I understand more today than I did yesterday.

For her comfort Shelli is camped out up stairs. This means I have had 100 trips up and down the steps (I need the exercise so no problem.) She is in a great deal of pain and that hurts me to see her suffer. She constantly needs something: water, pills, her phone, her computer, her purse, etc. There are the house chores that must be done-dishes, clothes, pets, kids, and so on. And I feel like all of this must be done with an unusually positive attitude because Shelli will feel bad if she thinks she is being a burden to me. Because she is so giving, not being able to give when someone else is giving to her is tough for her. But I don't want anything to be tough for her.

None of this is a complaint; just a reality check for me. What I now know is care giving is tough, especially when the other person is completely dependent. But I think I better understand how to handle the job of care giving. First, what makes it much more easy is the person you are serving. It is a privilege to serve Shelli. She has given me so much love and support over the years that it is nothing to serve her. Secondly, see it as your responsibilty. Serving her is part of my job as her husband; before God I pledged as much when I said, "I do." Thirdly, accept help any where you can. I have been so blessed by my small group and The Crossing family. Meals are being delivered, one of our ladies is coming to stay with Shelli during Logan's game Friday, and their have been numerous calls of support and offers of help. You need to be in small group if for no other reason just for the support of friends during tough times.

In closing I am feeling so blessed. I have a wonderful wife and no matter what happens in our later years I will be privileged to care for her. I have precious friends who partner with me for a purpose bigger than ourselves. I am surrounded by good things!

Full of Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T05:59:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving has quite an agenda if you are with my family. We really enjoy the day. We usually try to catch a little of the Macy's parade. Sometimes there is a last minute store run (if one is open). I might get drafted to peel some potatoes or slice the turkey. I might take some time to see what games will be on later and plan accordingly. Of course there is the dinner that will be a wonderful feast. After that I will probably help clean-up (unless I don't have to!) And then it is football and a nap. After which, it is football and pumpkin pie...after which it is football, leftovers, pie, maybe a movie, more leftovers, more football, until delirium causes us all to put another Thanksgiving to bed.

It has been quite a day...what a Thanksgiving! But in spite of all of its 'fullness,' my Thanksgiving has lacked something: thanksgiving. The challenge for all of us is to carve out some time to say thank you while carving our turkey. Oddly taking time for thanksgiving is low on the Thanksgiving agenda.

I am certainly in favor, both personally and profesionally, of what we all have been doing to celebrate Thanksgiving. We need to celebrate. I just think that being thankful is essential as a regular practice of our lives; and most especially on a day of Thanksgiving.

Find a quiet place with nothing more to do than focusing on every blessing you have. Your blessings are God's fingerprints on your life. You can see where God has been in your life when you see how you have been blessed. Knowing God has been in your life especially when times are tough is important. Don't let another Thanksgiving pass without thanksgiving...it will be good to know God has been there too.

Leaving the Middle

2008-11-24T11:24:00.000-08:00

Moses' journey from Midian to Egypt in answer to God's call to set Israel free was spiritual as much as it was physical. The bold man of God who faced Pharaoh in Exodus 5 is hardly the timid doubter of Exodus 4.

In his journey to Egypt he left Midian and the middle. Even the name has 'mid' in it. He left the moderation and compromise that had characterized his life for the clarity and commitment of total surrender to God. It is best seen in the strange text of Exodus 4:24-26. Moses' dramatic encounter with God reveals the compromise even one who was going to serve God was willing to accept.

To compromise is to ignore a principle for a perceived personal benefit. Moses was ignoring God's command to circumcise his son. His motivation, based on his wife's reaction, appears to be a desire to please her. What is obvious here is that God despises compromise.

And when Moses' began to live in complete commitment to God and run from compromise his doubts began to melt away and he became a confident man of God. Remember James 1tells us "a double-minded man is unstable in all his ways." Live truly before God, run from compromise and see the confidence in you grow.

Go Buckeyes, Beat Michigan!

2008-11-20T07:32:00.000-08:00

The third Saturday in November is always a big week for those of us from Ohio and Michigan as the Buckeyes and Wolverines square off for the greatest rivalry in sports. Often the national championship or at least a trip to the Rose Bowl was on the line. The buildup is often so big that it is difficult to win the next game. Of late the Bucks have gotten the better of the Wolves. In the 90's Michigan consistently won. Ebbs and flows have characterized the series even though only 2 games separate the teams over the last 90 years. So this is Michigan week and we Buckeyes are fired up and ready. Go Bucks!

I Love It When a Plan Comes Together

2008-11-19T12:37:00.000-08:00

In the 80's a popular show called the A-Team featured a character who, after the successful completion of a seemingly impossible mission, would always say, "I love it when a plan comes together!" A week ago Sunday I talked about obeying the nudges God gives, which are sometimes small and sometimes as big as a burning bush. This past week I talked about how doing what God wants is often difficult to do, but that his plan always works. When we follow him both of us end up saying, "I love it when a plan comes together!"

The text we used was, Exodus 4:18-29 where Moses sets out for Egypt in response to God's calling to free Israel from slavery. Moses tells his father-in-law that he is going to go back to Egypt to see if any of his relatives are still alive. Does that sound confident to you? Is this a man on a mission, full of passion for God's call on his life? No, he sounds like someone who is filled with doubt. This is good news for me because--I have doubts, too. Moses was a super star believer...but he doubted. This passage leads me to one conclusion: When doing what God wants, it is normal to have doubts and imagine problems, because following God is difficult and foreign.

Here is a probable list of some of Moses' doubts:
a. Will they kill me when I show up?
b. How will Pharaoh react?
c. Will Aaron buy in to my leadership and accept his role?
d. Are the people still alive?
e. How will the people respond to my leadership?

In Exodus 4 God helps Moses' with all his doubts; but he did it because of vs. 20. In spite of his doubts, Moses,

“...took his wife and sons and put them on a donkey for the return trip to Egypt. He had a firm grip on the staff of God.”

The key is to obey and hold on to God.

We will never overcome our doubts, waiting for God to remove them before we act. God always wants us to have faith and take the first step for which he then rewards us. It makes following God stressful sometimes, but always exhilirating! God dealt with each of Moses' doubts but it was only after Moses dealt with his own unwillingness to trust God. And that's when the plan starts coming together!

Tribes

2008-11-12T11:40:00.000-08:00

The word immediately creates an image. But for me a new meaning has developed in my thoughts thanks to the book by the same title. Tribes, written by Seth Godin has sparked a revolution in my thinking. The jist of Tribes is that lasting and substantive change can be best effected by a tribe: a group of people connected to each other, to a leader and to an idea. That 3 part description may be the best description of how the early church began. But in our day that kind of connection has never been easier because of technology and the ease of access and delivery of information. The Crossing is a tribe and we can make a huge impact!

The thing I like about this book is that it says anyone can be a leader. That is exactly what the Bible teaches us. While not written as a book neccessarily for churches I think it is a book that helps us to understand how to be effective in this day. I want to recommend Tribes to you.

Off the Chain, Exodus 3-4

2008-11-10T11:19:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been bugged by God? You know that nudge that tells you God wants you to do something? It may have been as simple as apologize to your spouse or go to church; or as big as share your faith with you neighbor, serve God in ministry, or forgive your abusive father. It is uncomfortable when God nudges us, calls us, pushes us to do something we may not want to do. That is where Moses was when he saw the burning bush...it was one big flaming nudge.

Moses was comfortable in Midian. His needs were met, he had a family, and though he wasn’t exactly changing the world as a shepherd, he had something to do. But God’s call of Moses was not only about freeing others, but also about freeing himself from slavery. God calls us to follow him, to live a life off the chain--free from anything that holds us back.

Where does God want to lead us?
1. Off the chain of the past to the freedom of the future. (Exo. 3:11) Moses has a regrettable past in Egypt but God made him face it.
2. Off the chain of distance from God to the freedom of partnership with Him. (Exo. 3:13) Moses didn't know God but serving him would be a powerful tutor.3. Off the chain of fear to the freedom of trusting Him. (Exo. 4:1) Moses was afraid of Pharaoh but facing him would force Moses to trust God.4. Off the chain of weakness to the freedom of strength in God. (Exo. 4:10) Moses had a glaring weakness but God would show him that through his weakness God can really shine.
5. Off the chain of a meaningless life to the freedom of changing lives. (Exo. 3, 4) Following God is never as easy as staying where you are but it is a lot easier than the stain of a meaningless life.

Don't say no to the nudge. And don't assume it is only about others. The key God is handing you unlocks your chains too.

Congratulations President-Elect Obama...You Are In My Prayers

2008-11-05T11:35:00.000-08:00

Though there are many differences I have on policy with Barack Obama, I am excited for him and his supporters. While never having issues with race myself (one of my best friends in HS was an Afr-Amer named, Evan Saunders) I am happy that those who have struggled against racism finally have a man they feel truly represents them.

It says something good about us when 130+ million Americans go to the polls civilly and elect their first black president by a strong majority. I know racism still exists in many places but hopefully this election will do a lot of damage to it. I know white people who are afraid of black leaders. Maybe President Obama can put their fears to rest. I know black people who feel there is always an inequity to overcome in life. Maybe this election will tear down any real or imagined wall of injustice in front of every person of color. Maybe this can be a new day when racists on both sides have no real argument.

My hope primarily is that President Obama will follow the path of President Lincoln at the end of the Civil War when his second term began. Some around Lincoln then wanted the Southern leaders tried and hung for war crimes. Lincoln knew that these former enemies were now his countrymen and with the war's end, the future of the country hung in the balance. He resisted the radicals on both sides as well as the intoxication of his own power to cast a vision of a peaceful, united country. His image of America was inspiringly illustrated in his second inaugural address when Lincoln said,

"With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations."

For those who are cheering today for President Obama it may seem, as with President Lincoln, that a great civil war has been won. And in many ways it has. Now President Obama has a great opportunity and a monumental challenge. Will he use his power to attempt to subdue his opposition? Or will he resist those who want revenge and power and do what is right for America as God gives him the ability to see the right?

Unfortunately an assasin's bullet cut President Lincoln down before his conciliatory approach to reconstruction could be implemented. Without Lincoln's influence and political adroitness the reconstruction period spiraled into retribution and ugliness and lit the flames of racism still burning today (the KKK was born then). Ironically, President Obama, our first African-American president, may be able to complete some of the work of Father Abraham. Let us pray for him and support him as we can without abandoning our principles. Our prayers for him may be more vital than any contribution he has received. And let us love and accept our brothers and sisters on both sides of this election and make our new president's job easier.

Election Day Thoughts

2008-11-04T13:15:00.000-08:00

I did my civic duty today for two hours. Long lines at the polling place tell us more people than ever care about this election. This also means that 4-8 years from now more people than ever are either going to be happy or disillusioned with their vote or with those who cast it. The victor better do well or the pendulum will swing in the opposite direction from their views. In other words all this energy better mean something good because today's big winner will be a huge loser down the road. And the country will be worse for it.

We need to pray for whoever wins because their job is going to be huge.

Losing the Grip

2008-11-03T07:20:00.000-08:00

If God were running for the presidency what would his platform be? Based on Exodus 3:7-8 where we have been spending a lot of time, here isr you what God wants for you:
1. Freedom instead of bondage; “pry them loose from the grip of Egypt”
2. Opportunity instead of limits; “get them out of that country and bring them to a good land with wide-open spaces”
3. Blessing instead of barrenness; “a land lush with milk and honey”
4. Responsibility instead of dependence; “the land of the Canaanite, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite”

Having the Promised Land meant taking responsibility to conquer the land and all those "'ites" who occupied it. But the first responsibility was breaking free from the grip of the Egyptians. Many people have an area where they struggle spiritually or where they are in bondage. How do you break free from the grip of anything holding you back?

Guile must become honesty
Resignation must become defiance
Isolation must become teamwork
Pride must become humility

I shared with our congregation that I need to break free from the grip of food and how it affects me. So for me to break free in my diet, first of all there must be honesty instead of delusions about food. Secondly, I must have a defiant attitude that says I will not be be enslaved any longer. A defeated, resigned attitude will keep me bound. Thirdly, I cannot lose weight on my own. I need people to challenge me and help me. Isolation is my enemy...I get by with a little help from my friends. And lastly, pride will never allow me to have God's help. The Bible says God will, "Resist the proud but give grace to the humble." Pray, admit your weaknesses, and see how God will set you free from the grip of anything holding you back.

The Adoration Challenge

2008-10-29T11:18:00.000-07:00

We had a good prayer gathering last night. We focused on our church, the needs of the country, and of our congregation. I came away extremely challenged to work harder at adoration in my prayers. Adoration flows from our heart like the words of a poet writing a sonnet. It is a natural effusion of the love we feel for God. It is entirely relational, intimate, and genuine.

Here is a wonderful example from Psalm 89 from The Message (a translation that seems to super-size adoration whenever it gets a chance), "God! Let the cosmos praise your wonderful ways, the choir of holy angels sing anthems to your faithful ways! Search high and low, scan skies and land, you'll find nothing and no one quite like God. The holy angels are in awe before him; he looms immense and august over everyone around him. God-of-the-Angel-Armies, who is like you, powerful and faithful from every angle? You put the arrogant ocean in its place and calm its waves when they turn unruly. You gave that old hag Egypt the back of your hand, you brushed off your enemies with a flick of your wrist. You own the cosmos—you made everything in it, everything from atom to archangel. You positioned the North and South Poles; the mountains Tabor and Hermon sing duets to you."

Those writing in Psalms or other passages of adoration were artistically adept. They worked at describing their feelings for God like a master chef searched for the perfect ingredients for a gourmet meal. I was challenged to do more to creatively to express my love, awe, and wonder of God.

Maybe you feel incapable of expressing your love adequately. Here are some ideas if you feel adorationally challenged. 1. Read a Psalm to the Lord as if it were your words to him. 2. Sing. Unlike singing to a lover, ability is not required. Just be genuine and, "Sing of his love forever." 3. Do something loving for someone else out of your love for God. Bless someone like God has blessed you. Give a special love offering. But do it all to show your love for God. Let's take the adoration challenge!

New Commercial

2008-10-28T07:30:00.000-07:00

Check out the new commercial about The Crossing playing at the Hamilton Mill movie theatre before each movie. It could only be 15 seconds long. You can see it on the front page of our website (link below). Our thanks to C.Y. Smith, Brad Burks, and Chad Aukland for putting this together.

link

The Fun and Pain of Sacrificial Investment

2008-10-27T07:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a good case study on spiritual preparation. God was moving in our church. But so was the devil. There were technical issues, things were forgotten, people were late, our guest worship leader, Christopher Heidler spent Saturday at the hospital as his son broke his arm. There were probably some other things I don't even know about; I even think some of our people came to church just frustrated for maybe no apparent reason. I believe the enemy was at work.

But so was God. In spite of technical issues and a long Saturday, Christopher and the band were used big time by the Lord! I felt the presence of God all over me as I spoke. And there were at least two people who worked through major spiritual issues at the end of the service. And a family came because of the Breakfast on the Porch in Janine and Glenn Riches' neighborhood.

I believe good things happened because of the investment in prayer and fasting. This week two college students in our church told me they were going to join me in fasting for a breakthrough at our church...college students! I also believe 'bad things' happened because of the investment in prayer and fasting. All those problems Sunday came from somewhere. The enemy gets more active when he sees people praying and fasting. As long as we are operating in our strength, evil can relax. But when people begin to pray and fast, the devil knows God will get involved and he must also. And when we add bringing people to church with prayer and fasting, Hell gets really nervous.

The result is spiritual warfare at The Crossing and that leaves us with two options. Quit praying and fasting and just have church. (Man does that sound disgusting.) Or have more people join us in prayer and fasting for a breakthrough at The Crossing. (Man does that sound fun!) Besides, you don't want to be in a war zone and not be ready for battle.

When God works it forces you off the rail of just being a worker or a watcher to being a warrior: you have to be armed for the war and engaged in the battle or you will get taken out by it. Everyone, especially those in any ministry role, must come to church or to their ministry having prayed for that service or ministry. The Crossing is becoming a war zone and two worlds, the Kingdom of God and the forces of Satan, are colliding. The sacrificial investment of praying, fasting, inviting others, giving, and working hard on your ministry are the only weapons that win on the battlefield.

And we will win...something about the gates of Hell not prevailing against the church comes to mind. It may hurt but man is it fun!

If you have any ministry role at The Crossing, especially on Sundays I want to ask you to join my Partners in Fasting. Invite people to come, prepare the way through prayer and fasting. And let's have some real fun! Don't miss the prayer meeting at the home of Karl and Lisa Alspach tomorrow night. Contact me at rd@atthecrossing.org for directions.

Dead Ends or Living Beginnings- Exodus 3

2008-10-22T13:07:00.000-07:00

For Moses, Midian had to seem like one. You may feel like you are in one...in your work, marriage, ministry, etc. Its a dead end. You have no place to go. You can turn back or just sit here and do nothing. For Christ followers, neither is an option. Jesus' last words were "Go". But many people feel stuck in a dead end in some area of their lives...what can they do?

Moses did three keeps: keep doing, keep looking, keep learning. First, unless you know it is wrong, keep doing what you know to do. Moses kept tending his father-in-law's sheep. That is what he had been doing. While doing so, he found a burning bush in the middle of his dead end. Keep doing.

Second, keep looking. Moses "saw" the burning bush. He literally kept his head up. His dead end had not permanently pushed his eyes to the ground in despair. To maintain a continual state of despair is somewhat atheistic...it says there is no God. Keep looking.

Last, keep learning. This difficult place is a learning place. There is something God wants you to know or get in this dead end that could not be acquired any other way. Ask what you are to learn in this dead end. Moses' ability to lead God's people out of slavery began in Midian. How could something begin in a dead end?

Keep doing, looking, and learning...that is how dead ends become living beginnings.

Holy Ground and Holiness

2008-10-16T06:56:00.000-07:00

The, "Moses take off your sandals, you are standing on holy ground," passage in Exodus 3 is quite confusing to many. God is not telling Moses his sandals are dirty, remove them because I am holy; Moses' feet were just as dirty as his sandals. God's call to Moses is about relationship and submission.

Why do we keep our shoes on? Pride, to cover the imperfections of our feet. (God says, give me your imperfections.) Safety, to protect our feet from harm. (God says, why do you need protection from me?) Distance, when we don't feel accepted as we are. (God says, I accept you as you are.) Our plan, because we have somewhere to go. (God says, your plan does not compare to mine.)

None of these were acceptable if Moses was going to connect with God. Nor are they for us. In fact they are the enemy of our personal holiness. As long as pride, a preference for safety over submission, a willingness to keep distance between us and God, and any idea that we actually have a plan other than God's is a part of our lives we can never attain the closeness to God that actually creates holiness in each of us. There can never be holiness in us until there is closeness to God. Take off your shoes, immerse your bare feet in the holy ground of closeness to God, and feel God's holiness become your own. It won't come any other way.

The Upside of Down Times

2008-10-13T11:04:00.000-07:00

Times are tough. People are losing jobs. Worry and fear abound. What should we do? Amazingly...celebrate!

Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way. James 1:2-4

Undoubtedly, this passage is a head-scratcher if you are hurting right now. But as my old pastor friend used to say, "It's in the Book for some reason...I guess 'cause it's true." The Bible is written from the perspective of One who knows how your situation is going to end. The Bible looks at life like I do a DVR of my team when I know they have already won. I can relax because I have no fear of losing.

In tough times we all may live without something. We may face difficult transitions. We may be pushed to our limits. But we will not lose. In fact, we win according to James 1 and a bunch of other passages. There is an upside to down times.

Here are a few upsides: 1. Your real Christian life shows up in tough times. If it is good then you will have greater influence and be admired by others. If it is bad you will be able to see what needs improvement with a clarity you could never have in good times. Understanding yourself more clearly is worth a lot. Coach Woody Hayes said (I will give you the G-rated version), "Nothing cleanses your soul like getting the crap kicked out of you!" Cleansing our souls, getting rid of false notions is a liberating by-product of tough times.

2. Your real friends turn up in tough times. In the good times friends benefit from your blessings. But when you have needs you see who is with you only because of you. A friend who loves us unconditionally in the tough times is truly a gift from God.

3. The really valuable things in life light up in tough times. As the things we thought were important fade, the really valuable things light up. In some recent challenges, my sons have been a great source of wisdom and encouragement to me. They are really valuable in my life and have become more visible in difficulty. There are so many things we focus on but really only a few matter and in the toughest times the most valuable things--faith, family, friends--light up.

Things may be down right now, but you don't have to be!

Devotional Thoughts- Psalm 37 "Follower's Remorse"

2008-10-07T08:08:00.000-07:00

I have been very blessed of late as I have studied Psalms. The thing I like best is the honesty. No matter how he was feeling, David told God about it, even if it was critical of God. I mean it's not like God doesn't know anyway right? I guess David said it because it helped David to release the problem to God.

One of the problems with which David dealt, was the apparent success of those who were not following God. What made it worse were the challenges he was facing in spite of his faith...why should he suffer for God when those who did not live for God were succeeding?

The Bible is so relevant to the things we face. I think some people feel this way more than they would admit. "Why should I pay my tithe when my neighbor gets a new car when he doesn't pay his?" "Why should I share my faith at work when those who could care less about God get promoted while I stay at the same level?" Are you having Follower's Remorse? Are you living for God but feeling your blessings do not equal the challenges of living for God? Could it be that those who do not live for God are making it even worse for you? David in Psalm 37, gives 10 steps for those who may be struggling with Follower's Remorse and those who seem to succeed without living for God.

1. Don't focus on them...they will fall.
2. Find security in God...they have none.
3. Keep company with God...He will make you feel good.
4. Tell God how you feel...they have no one to turn to.
5. Quiet down before God...don't worry about others.
6. Control your anger...God will deal with them.
7. Don't worry about their threats...God isn't.
8. Be morally strong...it overcomes every other strength.
9. God is watching you...in bad times, you'll be fine.
10. Don't worry about those who have become your enemies for no reason...they have made themselves God's enemies.

Live with the end in mind. These people are not home yet...when we get home, we win!

Tough Times Survival kit

2008-09-29T07:19:00.000-07:00

With billion dollar government bail-outs, failing banks, gas station lines, and the political turmoil of an election year life is somewhat stressful these days. I can imagine that some of you are feeling the squeeze right now. I prayed today that the Lord would give me insight on what to do for everyone. I want to offer you a Tough Times Survival Kit.

TTS Kit item # 1:
Funnel worry energy into prayer energy. Phil 4:6-7 says, "Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life."

In tough times it is essential that you keep yourself emotionally fit. Worry eats away at your emotional strength making coping difficult. In addition the worrier often hurts their relationships as worry makes you challenging to be around if not down right mean and nasty to everyone. Worry also hinders your ability to see things clearly. Clouded by worry, your mind sees only problems instead of possibilities.

TTS Kit Item # 2:
Act on what you can do. So often the challenges we face cause us to not take action on what would help us deal with our challenges. Don't let what you can't do keep you from doing what you can do! In the midst of the darkest moments of the Civil War when it looked like the north could not win, Abraham Lincoln said, "I refuse to surrender the game, until every card is played...and I have a few more cards." We all have some cards we can play. In Proverbs 13:3 we read, "Easy come, easy go, but steady diligence pays off."

There are probably some cards you can play. Work more if you can to save more money or pay off debt. Reduce spending. And here is a big one...Come to Casey Graham's Rethink Money event this Saturday at Mill Creek HS! There are some things you can do...do them.

TTS Kit Item # 3:
Be good to those in need. In Psalm 41 we learn, "Oh, the joys of those who are kind to the poor! The Lord rescues them when they are in trouble. The Lord protects them and keeps them alive. He gives them prosperity in the land and rescues them from their enemies. The Lord nurses them when they are sick and restores them to health."

I mean, even if it were not good to be good to the poor it does appear that it would be wise to do so. But so often we get a "ride-it-out" mindset in tough times where we refuse to share with others. It appears from Psalm 41 that the only way to really guarantee we will be OK in tough times is to care for others, and earn God's favor. The tough times may outlast our savings but they will not outlast God.

In short we can survive tough times if we will pray instead of worry, act instead of wish, and give instead of hoard. Who knows, we may even thrive instead of just survive!

Blessed Contradictions

2008-09-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

So that I would not become too proud of the wonderful things that were shown to me, a painful physical problem was given to me. (Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:7)

Recently I have been contemplating what I call blessed contradictions. They are things that seem bad, but they really are good. Paul was given a 'thorn in the flesh' to keep him on the ground and free of arrogance. Casey Graham told our church Sunday his grandfather committed suicide over financial pressure. But now Casey leads an organization focused on giving people financial freedom. These are blessed contradictions.

The thing is, I think many of us see the bad things in our lives as only being bad things. The difficulties, the struggles, the pains...they could not be a blessing much less a gift from God (as Paul described his thorn.) We tend to have a very black and white view of life. We find it very difficult to imagine the bad stuff potentially being the good stuff. So the bad stuff and often the God who allows it get a bad rap.

In our world, having a flexible and patient perspective on the bad things is rare. But I think as Christ-followers we must take at least a wait and see attitude about everything that seems bad--if not, a positive faith that what is bad will be made into something good. Jesus said in John 16:33,

"In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

I am reminded of the story of the butterfly striving to break free from its cocoon. A well-meaning boy enlarged the opening in the cocoon to make it easier for the chrysalis to emerge. Finally the butterfly was free of the cocoon. But instead of flying away into joyful emancipation, the butterfly made a few feeble flaps of its wings and then laid down in death. Because the butterfly did not have to struggle to break free from the cocoon, the muscles necessary to fly were never developed. In an effort to free the butterfly the boy had killed it all because he saw something that was really good as being something bad.

What are you looking at in your life right now that you think is bad that is actually good? Don't take a shortcut around it. Seek God as Paul did and try to understand what is going on. Paul refused to quit praying until God either took away the thorn or helped him understand why it had to remain. And you may find out that what you thought was really bad is actually a blessed, blessed contradiction.

Real Financial Heroes and ReThink Money

2008-09-03T13:45:00.001-07:00

I know a lot of people are struggling financially. What are going to do about it? Don't miss Casey this week at The Crossing. Check out this video...its pretty good.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33OE65bNclc&NR=1

Losing Your Luggage

2008-08-29T14:01:00.001-07:00

I lost my luggage for the first time on an overseas trip this week to Argentina. In travels to Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe that had never happened to me until this week. In the past I tried to sympathize with those who lost their luggage but I never knew what that was like until now. I had to wear the same clothes for 3 days. I had to borrow/buy toiletries. I had to wonder what those who saw me each day thought when I again had on the same blue shirt. There is just something comfortable about having your stuff regardless of it´s quality. I was in a foreign place and I did not feel at my best.

Sometimes I think life is like that. We are in a place in life where we want to be at out best but no one is catching us at our best. You know that first impressions are lasting and yet you are not able to make a good one. Your luggage contains your identity in your clothes and in some ways your security. In reality you are left to depend soley on your own personal security. How secure are you when you lose everything in life on which you are depending? Losing your luggage can be a good thing because it is one way you can check your own personal security.

Oneness and The Fall

2008-08-14T12:41:00.000-07:00

So far we have seen that oneness is part of the nature of God, was sown into the fabric of creation, and was in reality the very purpose for creation. But the fall of man turned the idyllic oneness of the garden upside down. In fact the loss of oneness is the most visible and immediate casualty of the sin of Adam and Eve.

Clearly God’s vision for creation was for man to be one with God and with others. Man is made “in our image” which, as we have already shared, is an image of God’s oneness. And when you look into the future when Jesus prays on the eve of his death oneness is still God’s vision for mankind.

"My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” (John 17:20-21)

Oneness was the plan from the beginning…and from Satan’s viewpoint oneness was and is, therefore, the target. All of the serpent’s attacks are relational in nature. He does not talk of how beautiful and appealing the fruit is but implies that God is unfair and selfish.

But the snake said to the woman, "You will not die. God knows that if you eat the fruit from that tree, you will learn about good and evil and you will be like God!" (Genesis 3:4-5)

In effect Eve is told that God is depriving you of the very thing that makes him so special. The serpent calls into question God’s love and his character and therefore the foundation of their relationship with God. Eve, now thoroughly tempted eats of the fruit and gives some to her husband. Temptation is spreading and the conduit is relational—Eve wants to be like God so she disobeys, Adam wants to please Eve and he disobeys.

The result is instantaneously catastrophic on the oneness of the Garden.

Then, it was as if their eyes were opened. They realized they were naked, so they sewed fig leaves together and made something to cover themselves. (Genesis 3:7)

The innocence and intimacy they knew were shattered. Suddenly, walls went up between them and things like trust, confidence, and freedom went out the door. They would never be the same again

And then the sound of foot falls in the Garden replaces the peace they had always known with terror…God is walking in the garden! Like teenagers in trouble they scramble for cover while clumsily attempting to hide their nudity from the other.

Then they heard the Lord God walking in the garden during the cool part of the day, and the man and his wife hid from the Lord God among the trees in the garden. But the Lord God called to the man and said, "Where are you?" The man answered, "I heard you walking in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked, so I hid." (Genesis 3:8-10)

The first really sad words ever uttered in the world were said by God, “God called to the man… ‘Where are you?’” I am sure God could have given us Adam’s GPS coordinates. God’s question came not from a confused mind but a broken heart: Adam, where are you...we were so close…we were one…where are you? And thus a painful Christian bumper sticker was born…If God seems far away, guess who moved?

It would be impossible to overstate the loss Adam and Eve must have felt. That beautiful triangle of oneness that existed between God, Adam, and Eve is gone forever. Blissful memories of life in the Garden almost certainly amplified the biting pain now gripping their hearts. And to further illustrate their brokenness, Adam blames Eve and God and Eve blames the snake. Long gone are sentiments like, “Bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh.” Adam and Eve…tattered and pathetic, like the makeshift clothing they wear.

Sin is anti-oneness. Whatever brings us together sin tears apart. Whatever creates a bond between us, God and others, sin counters and compromises. God’s plan is oneness. Satan’s plan is the destruction of oneness. And so the eternal conflict of the universe is being waged on the battlefield of oneness. Thankfully, God’s plan cannot lose. Next time we will see that even God’s punishment is bringing about a new, albeit lesser, oneness between God, Adam, and Eve.

Oneness and the Creation, Part Two

2008-08-13T06:58:00.000-07:00

Last time we discovered that God created all the animals to find a suitable companion for Adam. But because no companion could be found among the animal kingdom, God's passion for oneness inspired the creation of Eve.

“So God took a rib from Adam while he slept and made Eve.”

God makes Eve from Adam’s rib. She is born from his own flesh. She is born of God’s oneness with Adam...alive and vibrant because of their partnership. This is a point to consider…does a wife have more spiritual life as her husband has more oneness with God?

Now coming from him she is destined to be one with him; from his side, and by his side. Adam seems to understand this when he offers the first recorded piece of romantic poetry, “You are bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh.”

And in Genesis 2, Moses, the author of Genesis gives interesting insight into what we might call the progression of oneness. We are born out of the oneness of our parents and as we grow we enjoy a meaningful level of oneness with them. But God has planned for the human race to experience an even greater level of oneness with another, a “suitable companion” just as Adam did. In Genesis 2:24-25 we see the ultimate expression of intimacy and oneness.

“Therefore a man leaves his father and mother and embraces his wife. They become one flesh. The two of them, the Man and his Wife, were naked but they felt no shame.”

One should leave their parents because the level of oneness you achieve with them could never equal the oneness available with the suitable companion God has for you. Being ‘bone of your bones and flesh of your flesh’ the suitable companion is the perfect person with whom you can become one. Clearly, the purpose of marriage is not children, sex, or lower taxes, but oneness. And every aspect of marriage is made more wonderful by the level of intimacy and oneness of the couple.

This is the oneness of the creation walking hand in hand with God and with each other…a beautiful triangle of intimacy. Unfortunately that oneness is shattered in Genesis 3 by the introduction of anti-oneness: sin. Next time we will look at Oneness and The Fall.

Oneness and the Creation, Part One

2008-08-11T08:52:00.000-07:00

As oneness is in the nature of the Creator oneness should also be evident in the Creation. The harmony of ecosystems and all created things is well established. Our focus however is the oneness of the crown jewel of God’s creation, mankind.

Genesis 2:6-7 shows the creation of man as a caring, personal act where ‘God breathed into man the breath of life and man became a living soul.’ God is no creation machine; his hands lovingly form and shape the man…His breath brings him to life. It is intimate, face to face, hands on. Literally God’s oneness with man gives him life.

And as Adam comes to life he becomes one with God. All his needs are personally met by God. (Gen. 2:8-14) Adam and God have a mutual work project in maintaining the Garden of Eden. (Gen. 2:15) And then God gave man boundaries with which to frame his life by forbidding him to eat of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.

But in spite of all that—God is his friend, his needs are met, a beautiful place to live, meaningful work, and, loving boundaries—God said something was not good (and that was after two chapters of, “It is good,”.

“It is not good for man to be alone.” –God, in Genesis 2:18

The very first negative statement uttered in the history of the world was about mankind’s need of oneness. And God is so concerned about it he takes the initiative to provide Adam with a “suitable” helper. By the way, suitable would seem to mean one with whom Adam can enjoy oneness; oneness is the measuring stick.

Now notice an amazing passage in Genesis 2:18-20:

“So God formed from the dirt of the ground all the animals of the field and all the birds of the air. He brought them to the Man to see what he would name them. Whatever the Man called each living creature, that was its name. The Man named the cattle, named the birds of the air, named the wild animals; but he didn’t find a suitable companion.”

Did you ever see that because I didn’t until recently? Because of man’s aloneness God made the animals. All the animal kingdom exists today because God wanted man to have a companion! I find that to be an astonishing truth. We have dogs and cats (and every other animal) because God wanted Adam to have oneness with someone other than him. And because God is passionate for oneness and no companion could be found among the animal kingdom, God makes Eve. We will talk about her next time.

The Oneness of the Creator

2008-07-29T07:45:00.000-07:00

If Oneness really is the dominant theme of the Bible than it should be seen from the beginning of the written word if not before it. And Oneness should be a trait visible in the very nature of God. In the opening three chapters of Genesis (which forms sort of a mini-Bible, sharing many of the basic tenets of the Gospel,) Oneness is a dominant theme.

It is important here in the beginning to define Oneness. Wikipedia defines it as, "the quality of being united into one." So, 'oneness' is having the quality of 'one', though comprised of more than one thing. Oneness is multiple pieces being united so perfectly they function as one instead of as multiple pieces. With that definition let's look at Genesis the Oneness of the Creator.

We see the multiple forms of God as expressed in the trinity at work in creation. In Genesis 1:1-2, from the CEV,

"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was barren, with no form of life; it was under a roaring ocean covered with darkness. But the Spirit of God was moving over the water."

We see God creating and God the Spirit hovering, as a mother does her chicks, over the creation. We know from Colossians 1:16 that God, the Son was with the Father and was in fact, the creator:

"Everything was created by him (Jesus), everything in heaven and on earth, everything seen and unseen, including all forces and powers, and all rulers and authorities. All things were created by God's Son, and everything was made for him."

So the 'God' of Genesis 1, 2 is depicted as Oneness; the Father, the Son, and the Spirit as One are speaking, creating, and caring for the creation. And if there is any more doubt about Oneness in the creation, in Genesis 1:26, we hear God say,

"Let us make human beings in our image and likeness."

"Us" and "our" leave no doubt that God as Oneness is the creator of everything. So according to Genesis, God existed as Oneness and created the world as Oneness. God is oneness. And the beauty and wonder of creation is a testament to the power of Oneness.

Genesis 1:26 also shows us clearly God's plan for creation which we will discuss in the next article, the Oneness of Creation.

The "One" Truth

2008-07-23T13:05:00.000-07:00

I will never forget the dicussion in my Biblical Theology class in college. Part of our work that year was to define and defend our view of the "center" (the main point) of the Bible. What appeared easy quickly became agonizing. Narrowing so much--the entire Bible--to one word is difficult. One word excludes so many others or includes too many more. What would you say? Some said holiness (logical and and maybe a little political in a holiness college). Others said, love, or mission, or life. One really smart person said, God...teacher's pet!

I felt good about love. Afterall the most famous verse says, "For God so loved..." But now it seems a little too nondescript...right up there with God. Maybe I am the teacher's pet. Or maybe it was just too broad of a word. Now that a few years have passed I see a better word: one.

Now maybe that was not the word you were thinking of but I find it powerfully descriptive. I know the Bible is like a diamond--you see one image while I see another. But as I continue to look in the Word I see, "one" everywhere. Not just as a word but as an idea, sown like the destinctive, defining thread in a tapestry. One is the picture of two or more things that join and function as one. One as defined in the word is big, powerful, and beautiful.

The truly defining characteristic that God shows from the very beginning of creation is that he is relational and desires us to be one with Him and one with each other. This is the "One" truth and I believe it is the center of the Bible.

This idea has become so big to me that I am going to continue to write about it in this blog for a few weeks. This may even evolve into a book. Needless to say with the direction The Crossing has recently taken, The "One" Truth is about as relevant as any discussion we could have. So how's your oneness...with God and others. If One is the center is the one thing we have to get right!

The Relational Discovery

2008-07-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

Our board, staff, and small group leaders recently took a journey of self-discovery called Church Intentional Design. The result was amazing clarity about what our church is and maybe more importantly, isn't. What we are is listed below in the Way of The Crossing. But understanding what The Crossing isn't may have been more exciting for me than anything else.

For years, I have focused a lot of energy on making us relevant musically, keeping the messages culturally connected, and making sure outsiders "got it." I am now of the opinion that those efforts, however well intentioned, did not match who we were/are. Now I do not believe in being irrelevant, especially to new people. But our best way to touch them is through relationships not through worship relevance. Anyway, people are looking for friends with whom to take the journey of life. The cool thing is we can do that.

The thing that now drives me is making sure new people are getting connected with others and that those who are not new are growing in the relationships they have. The messages and the music must move us all closer to one another and to God. We analyze each gathering based on its relational value not whether it impresses anyone new or old.

That is why we can have a Sunday like July 6th where the primary focus is on people getting to know each other. Almost all of the spiritual growth that occurred in the New Testament happened in a relational context (in a culture by the way that was much more relationally oriented already.) Being Western, we are much more separated from one another than any NT culture was. In fact, in spite of the "strangeness" of a Sunday like July 6th, (we had food and did some intentional relationship development through games) I think a few more Sundays like it would do us a great deal of good.

Simply put, many of us are just not used to an emphasis on relationships. Getting to know other people better and becoming more connected to each other hardly seems as important as hearing a sermon or singing a worship song. But think of this. In Jesus last prayer to the Father before going to the cross he prayed for one thing primarily...let them (his disciples and all those who come after them) be one! When he could have prayed for anything-spiritual growth, faith, preaching power, you name it-he prayed that they would be relationally strong.

I have begun to believe that something monumental has occurred. I believe we have seen something foundational at The Crossing...we'll call it the Relational Discovery. We will be exploring it and expanding on it a lot over the next several months.

A Day In Children's Church

2008-07-21T14:41:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday I got Pastor Karl to speak for me so I could lead Children's Church. Shelli came in and helped me with music. I learned a few things that might help us with the kids in the future. They said it was good (shew!) so I asked them what made it good. Here is what I learned.

First, they are smart so you better work hard to make it meaningful. They can tell when something is not put together well. Second, make things interesting because they are not easy. They have been exposed to some pretty outstanding things and they have sophisticated, highly developed senses. They loved the music. It had high energy but also some meaningful worship songs too. They loved going outside and seeing an illustration relevant to the lesson. (We looked at weeds in the grass as an example of anger: it is something that takes root and robs us of spiritual life.) They loved the "Pastor R.D. Dollars" I made to purchase things from the candy box I had. (I took dollars away from them to demonstrate that when we lose our temper we lose more than our temper.) Thirdly, I realized that they have spiritual needs and need God's work in their lives. They are very aware of their needs and want God to help them. At the end we prayed for them personally to be strong in the specific ways that each of them gets mad. One asked God to help them when they don't get want they want at the store. Another prayed that their anger would be under control when they lost a ballgame. It was truly a meaningful time. And I left feeling as if I have been in just as meaningful a time of ministry as when I preach on Sunday mornings to adults.

This has prompted me to challenge everyone to get involved in Children's Church. Janine and Glenn are so gifted but they need our help and they will help you. We have great curriculum that will show you exactly how to be effective with the kids. You can be a part of the big things that are happening with those "little people." Contact Janine at richesg@bellsouth.net or call the church office at 678-546-5355.

The Way of The Crossing

2008-06-25T11:18:00.000-07:00

Years ago those who followed Christ were said to be following, "the way of the cross." That statement summed up what it meant to be a follower of Christ's: deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow him. What does it mean to follow Christ at The Crossing? What is the way of The Crossing?

At a recent gathering of board, staff, and small group leaders we meant for the purpose of discovering our Church ID or Intentional Design. After almost 8 hours we decided some things that we could call, "The Way of The Crossing." Read this and see if it does not resonate with your heart like it did ours.

The Way of The Crossing

The Crossing is a relational church which inspires people to grow in God.

We give people a place to belong. We intentionally build relationships with them to welcome them into relevant, Spirit-Led, transformational experiences where they can grow in God.

We will doggedly fight to establish, build, and maintain relationships with local families and individuals who need community; to model and encourage authenticity; and to say yes to well-led, relevant, and inspiring events that connect people to each other and bring out the best in them so they want to give back.

We Will Change the World by Loving People, One Life at a Time!

Now are we perfect at this yet? No, but we are just getting started. But everyone needs to know that this is what we are and through this matrix we will make every decision. We are a place to belong and become...that is the way of The Crossing!

My Nephew AJ Wellman Speaks at Pastor and Son's Funeral

2008-05-28T21:49:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I told you about my sister Mindy's pastor and son, Forrest and Preston Pollock who were killed in a plane crash. My nephew AJ was an inseparable friend to Preston. AJ is the middle kid in this picture. Here is a link to an article about the funeral.

http://www.floridabaptistwitness.com/8875.article

The Power of Ownership

2008-05-28T08:06:00.000-07:00

In this discussion about making what matters, matter in a church it is essential that we talk about how the attendees feel about the church. The fact is their feelings and the resultant contribution they make will determine the impact of it.

For years churches have labored to engender strong feelings in people for their church. Two things have been emphasized: assimilation and membership. Assimilation is simply the process for creating more and more connection between the attendee and the church. It is the church's version of matriculation. And then membership is seen as the goal of assimilation. When they join, the conventional wisdom is that they are completely assimilated.

There is an inherent weakness that I have seen played out over and over again. The number of members a church has hardly represents how a church is doing. Members are among those who quit coming, leave for another church, never serve, never give, cause dissension, etc. Churches have attempted to resolve this by making membership more clear and the requirements more heavy. This does not solve the problem because members still do what they want to do. Apparently being a member does not generate the kind of passion and commitment that one would think. I do not really believe the problem is membership however--I think the problem is assimilation.

First of all I don't even like the word, assimilation. It reminds me of the Borg from Star Trek. Who wants to disappear into a cold, lifeless machine as some invisible cog? I think we have incorrectly looked at assimilation as mostly relational. If they have friends at our church we see them as assimilated. But having a friend in an organization does not create a passion for the organization. It is simply a playground.

Now people certainly need friends and the church needs the people to have friendships too. But this does not directly advance the organization. If those friends however share a passion for the church and that passion is focused on certain common goals and vision then you have something truly powerful.

I think real power is found when people feel not like members or even partners, but like owners. The way someone treats a rental car or house vs. their own car or house illustrates the difference. The transition that must occur to really see people acting with great commitment and passion is get people not to feel like they belong to the church but to feel like the church belongs to them. Let's talk about how we can do that in the next few days...the power of ownership.

Questioning What Matters: Followers

2008-05-22T10:28:00.000-07:00

We discussed the realities of leading in the church on Tuesday. Today we will discuss following leaders to do what really matters. We mentioned that in the Bible leaders sensed God's direction, informed the people of the direction, and the people then had to follow the leader. In most cases that is exactly what happened.

In our world, following is a more challenging reality than in days gone by. Now people are well-educated, experienced in leadership arenas themselves, and carrying a somewhat jaded perspective of pastors. The pastor used to be the smartest/most educated person in the room. He/she used to have respect just because of their title. And most of the people either were not in leadership arenas or if they were, they were not as aware of the skill leadership requires. This is not to blame the people but to state the realities of leadership in the church in this era. People have to be much more wisely led by pastors than they used to be.

But for any person, following is not easy especially if you are a leader yourself. Most of us from birth have wanted to do things our way and discard the leadership of others. How can we follow today when following is difficult and pastors are not as easy to follow as they used to be? I think it begins with understanding leading/following accountability. I believe leaders will have to give God an account of how they have led their followers. But followers will also have to give God an account of how they have followed. Once we know that we will be judged by God it makes those involved with leading and following take it much more seriously.

Secondly, understand that God, like a great general intends to take you into harm's way. Your pastor is not your general but the lower ranking officer leading your specific regiment. God is the general and your pastor is just leading you where the general wants you to go, and quite often that will be some place where sacrifice or risk is involved. The leader in spite of their outward appearance is scared too. The problem is not in being led some place scary but being led someplace that isn't scary. Because it is a risk it is probably of God. Or at least one quality that all of God's plans seems to have is risk. Accept and expect your leadership to take you some place risky...it is usually the only place worth going.

Last, accept your leader's humanity--God has. Even though they have heard from God they carry the message, as Paul said, "in earthen vessels." Mistakes happen. But not nearly as many as when prayer happens. How are you praying for your leader...or are you praying for your leader at all? Are you praying for me...I need it! It is amazing how people feel about me when they have been praying for me. Somehow, at least to them, I am a better speaker, leader, counselor, friend, etc. because they have been praying for me.

In spite of all their weaknesses and flaws, God has chosen your leader. He knows them better than anyone and yet he chose them. We would not want to find ourselves fighting against God and yet we may well be doing so if we are not following our leader. And the exciting thing is that we can make what matters, matter when leaders lead like they should and followers follow like they should.

Questioning What Matters: Leaders

2008-05-20T11:35:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately I have been denying my own point because this blog really matters but I have not been posting enough. Hopefully you like the new look. I have just been so busy that I got behind in my writing. I am still talking about what matters (see previous article.)

Today I have a question for you: how do you know what matters? This is challenging because everyone has their own ideas. It is hard to make what matters matter if those who have to make what matters matter don't agree on what matters...if you get my drift. We have to agree on it or we will always be questioning it or working with less motivation because we have not agreed on it.

It may be different in the corporate world but there is really only one way it works in God's business. In biblical instances, the leader got what matters from God (ie. the direction they should go, the mission they should have, etc.) who shared it with the people who accepted it as their own and the people and the leader then moved forward to accomplish it. There was no vote, no ballot, no list of various choices, no parliamentary procedure or moved, seconded, and approved. Joshua heard from God, "You and all these people, enter the Promised Land." He told the people and they entered the Promised Land. Seems easy enough, right?

But there are two distinct challenges that make it tough. The first is the leader following God and the second is the people following the leader. This article will focus on following God as a leader. We will talk about following leaders tomorrow.

It is not easy to follow God as a Christian leader. First, what God asks you to do will be scary. The sooner you accept that fact, the easier scary will be for you. God repeatedly told Joshua, "do not be afraid," words he must have needed to hear. Christian leadership is always scary. If it isn't, you are either taking the wrong/easier road or you never really heard from God about what was the right/difficult road.

That illustrates another truth about following God as a leader. It is often vague. No wonder we are afraid--we are just not sure; but we feel the people need us to have no doubts. So often we are afraid of our people and what they are going to do or say if we fail: will we lose our jobs? will they leave the church? etc. But here is a rock solid truth about christian leadership: To lead people well, you to have to love them...but to lead them where God wants you to lead them, you have to be willing to put them and you at risk.

The very best way not to question yourself overly is to make sure you have marinated your decision in three areas: The Word, prayer, and wise counsel. Look for confirmation of what you think you should do in these areas. God will speak and more clarity will be given. And clarity is the antidote for questioning. Tomorrow we will talk about followers.

So How Do We Make What Matters, Matter?

2008-05-14T07:39:00.000-07:00

After positing this thought on my blog yesterday I have taken some time to think about it and have become convinced that there is one essential first step. In God's Kingdom a leader is called to a role and God gives that leader a vision for that role. That vision in its purest form flows from what the leader feels passionately in his heart. If he crafts a vision from what he has heard from other churches or learned in conferences but not from the inspired feelings of his soul he does not have a vision that will inspire others or is even from God. The person God made that leader to be has a set of experiences and corresponding passions that is the prerequisite for the job God has called that leader to perform. To deny the passion and create a vision that does not flow from that passion is to be irrelevant in that role. It is like a great pitcher who is trying be a hitter. He was called there to pitch.

So the first step is this: discover what matters to the leader. What do they feel in their heart that they are called there to do? What is their passion and what should our organization do with them to achieve it?

I want you to know that I am called here to inspire people to become passionate followers of Jesus Christ. I am really not that interested in anything else in the church world. I want to see our people at The Crossing bringing people to our gatherings and see those new people inspired to follow Christ passionately. That is what matters and that is the most important first step.

So now our task is to figure out how to make what matters, inspiring people to become passionate followers of Christ, matter!

Making What Matters, Matter

2008-05-13T13:38:00.000-07:00

The point of my blog article on all the natural disasters was that we can so easily get off track on things that are not what matters. The famous Steven R. Covey quote applies to business and ministry...the main thing is to keep the main thing, the main thing.

It begs the question, what really matters? What is the one indispensible focus that we cannnot do without? Or better stated what is thing those around us most need? I am convinced it is the message of Christ and the transformation that comes from following Him.

I will talk more about this tomorrow. We need to openly dialog about what we need to do make what matters, matter.

Sad News

2008-05-13T13:08:00.001-07:00

I am so sad to tell you that Pastor Forrest Pollock of Bell Shoals Baptist Church and his 13 year old son Preston were found today in the North Carolina Mtns at the site of the plane crash that took their lives Sunday afternoon. Please remember his wife and children as they cope with the loss of a husband and father and a son and brother. I am sure this will cause such brokenness in that congregation as well. Thankfully they are with the Lord now and the congregation can rejoice in their lives. My sister Mindy and her family attend the church. Pastor Pollock's son was my nephew A.J.'s best friend. I know God can heal them all.

Pastor and Son Missing

2008-05-13T08:31:00.000-07:00

I just wanted ask all of you to pray for Pastor Pollock of the Bell Shoals Baptist church in the Tampa area. He was piloting a plane with his 13 year old son that has apparently gone down in the NC mountains. My sister Mindy and her family attend the church. Here is a link where you can get updates. http://www.bellshoals.com/pastor.

Massive Tragedy and What Really Matters

2008-05-12T12:08:00.001-07:00

No words can describe the horrors experienced by the people in Myanmar. The hurricane (called a cyclone in that part of the world) may cause 150,000 deaths by next week and 4 times that number are injured, homeless, and destitute. In China this morning an earthquake caused at least 5000 deaths and who knows how much physical, financial, and emotional destruction. And right here in GA and in other places across the country several people have been killed, wounded, and left homeless. One family in one of our sister Churches of the Nazarene in Central GA was killed today by a tornado.

In the last few years we have seen more of these occurances in more different ways than I can recall. Katrina is still fresh in our minds nearly two years later. The War on Terror has taken the lives of a few thousand of our countrymen and women. Certainly the Iraqi people have suffered even more. The 9/11 tragedy continues to haunt us and the world with soaring gas prices. Tsunami's, hurricanes, cyclones, tornados, wars, famines, epidemics...the world seems to be convulsing.

When you do the math on the tragedies since the new millenium the information is staggering. With all the warfare, famine, epidemics, and natural disasters combined more than 5 million people have died since 2000. Unfortunately the size of the number hinders our ability to feel it. That figure includes nearly 1,000,000 children. There are some areas where entire cities were annihilated. Many homes experienced the deaths of the entire family including extended family. The 5 million deaths have created another 500,000 orphans. The world is suffering and dying.

Now don't misunderstand. I am not trying to depress you, get money from you, or make you feel bad for what you have. We are blessed to be Americans. Here is my concern. The churches, ours included, get so caught up in so many dumb things when there are people around us and around the world that will not wake up in this world tomorrow. Something tragic will be fall them and instantly a whole group of people will be swept into eternity. And based on their walk with God they are either in heaven or in hell, forever.

These massive tragedies should remind us that nothing else matters except helping people find God and become Christ-followers. God, help us to get our eyes on the people around us who need you. We cannot stop tragedies in this world...but we can make sure it does not also become a tragedy in the next!

New Beginnings and Letting Go

2008-05-05T08:32:00.000-07:00

This month last year was a very painful one for me. I was letting go of my firstborn son Landon as he was graduating from high school. Believe me when I say it was very difficult. I actually had moments of just plain weeping at the thought.

I don't know why honestly. I was still going to be seeing him. He was only moving a few miles down the road to Norcross. I could call him anytime. It was just the idea I guess that he was not my little boy anymore. Now he had not actually been my little boy for a long time. In fact his desire to grow up had been strong from birth. There were many difficult arguments last spring prior to graduation because he was so ready to move on to the next phase of his life. And yet I weeped openly at his graduation. Letting go for his new beginning was not easy for me. I know many of you can relate because letting go of a child is part of your past, present, or future.

But you know it is probably a good thing some transitions are forced on us like graduation: we may not let go without it. This would prompt an unhealthy situation where the child won't grow up. Or on the other hand it could cause a situation where the child breaks away only by force or even violence.

But letting go is essential for the process of life to continue. I have often wondered if birds cry when they force their young out of the nest. God has instilled an instinct in them to make the transition possible but that doesn't mean the birds don't cry when they do. I wonder if the young birds cry too; how could their parents be so mean. But in the end when the young are soaring on the wind, building nests of their own, and securing the future with new hatchlings the parents aren't weeping then. I wonder then if birds smile...not just the parents but the young too.

New things are never easy but almost always necessary. God has designed natural changes into creation and given animals instincts for it. Certain patterns of life like graduation create the need for change in our own lives. So change is not our enemy--though it oftens feels like it is. That is why we need God to help us with letting go.

He truly understands the pain...letting his son come to earth knowing what he was going to be facing there had to painful beyond our comprehension. And yet he did it. But I think he saw something in the future that helped him let go...he saw you and I soaring, freed from sin, and living for him. And then God smiled in spite of his pain and let his son go. May God give you the ability with any change to see the beautful future awaiting you after the change. May God help you let go.

New Beginnings and Chocked Wheels

2008-05-01T11:39:00.000-07:00

Whenever you are pushing something heavy any little thing can slow down your momentum. If you are trying to push a car a small rock in front of the wheel can slow you down or even stop you completely. That is why as you get started with the thing you know you need to be doing (fitness, dieting, giving, ministry, etc.)realize that there will be things that can slow you up and kill your progress...if you let them. Before you get started it would be wise to get any unnecessary thing out of the way that might slow you down. It is hard enough getting started let alone trying to overcome something that has the effect of chocking your wheels.

If you are attempting to follow God in doing something, realize that the Enemy knows he can make things challenging for your progress with just a small stone. Don't let anything stop you from doing what you know you should do. Unfortunately, people can be a hindrance to what God wants you to do. How often did someone try to stop Jesus from his work? Even an insider like Peter, brought on Jesus' chastisement for standing in the way of what God was doing. People, more than any other thing, were hindrances to Jesus...they are likely to be for us too.

I remember a story told by my senior pastor, Floyd B'Hymer when I was a youth pastor. As a gifted saxophonist, Floyd earned a full scholarship to the University of Kentucky. But after God spoke clearly to Floyd in a church service he knew his mission would be souls not saxophones. This call to preach meant attending Asbury College instead of a free ride at UK. Floyd was shocked to see his mother throw herself down on the bed in a childish tantrum, instead of congratulating him for following God. She was a fine woman of God, but because of her desire to see her son become a star musician she was fighting the work of God in his life. But soon she accepted what the Lord was doing and found great fulfillment in Floyd's ministry.

So often people can fight God's work in our lives. They may sound like they are concerned for us when they are really thinking of themselves. Don't let anyone, even someone who is close to you, chock the wheels of God's work in your life. In the end it will be better for everyone involved, yourself included. But more than anyone, the Lord will be proud of you because like Jesus, you didn't let anything stop you from following God.

New Beginnings and a Team

2008-04-30T07:47:00.000-07:00

Maybe it is Spring in the air but I am enjoying a freshness at The Crossing. We have a new series starting this Sunday (Take This Job...and Love It!). We have new board members that are passionate and bringing a lot of energy to our church. We are however indebted to those who have served so faithfully over the years. Thanks to LeeAnn Utley who has served on our board for years, the last few as our treasurer. Thanks to Joel Bell who has been on our board for the last four years and served so admirably. I want to thank Elvis Ward and Paul Wallace for faithful service as well. Those who have served are going to benefit from rest and the fresh perspective of other endeavors.

But as with all things, there must be change. In fact to not change is almost abnormal. Everything that is living changes as a part of its life cycle. And things that are not living still are being changed by their surroundings; cars rust and houses need fresh paint. We see change all around us as well as within us.

We are going through necessary changes as a church too. I welcome new leaders to the board: Karl Alspach, Chad Aukland, Brad Burks, Jeff Runyan, and C.Y. Smith. I have already been blessed by the contributions of these good men. Our team at The Crossing is experiencing a new beginning just as the Lord would have it to do. He has sewn change into the fabric of creation...days becomes night and night becomes day again. There are new seasons and fresh starts imbedded into the pathway of life.

Please pray for these new leaders and follow them. They are where they are because the Lord has led them to be. The same Lord that gives a new Springtime of life and possibilities every April.

New Beginnings @ 0 mph

2008-04-28T06:44:00.000-07:00

Last week I talked about new beginnings and getting started with new things in your life. One thing I have noticed is that getting started is difficult. If you have ever pushed a car you know one of the laws of physics: an object at rest tends to stay at rest. That process from 0 mph to 1 mph, is much more difficult than going from 20 mph to 21 mph. When you are at 0 it is tough to get started. So accept the fact that getting started is difficult. Know that once you get going then it will be easier and that should be your focus. We all start at 0--but we aren't going to stay there.

So get started...it only gets easier!

Spring Beginnings

2008-04-24T07:54:00.001-07:00

Man I love the Spring! It's like the whole world gets a fresh coat of beauty. The birds sing more happily...nature seems to smile in her new spring wardrobe. I think God aligns our souls with the springtime to inspire a fresh new attitude in you and I.

I was walking the other day on a trail I had discovered and I just had to stop for a moment to take in the audio/visual symphony of my surroundings. Praise for God poured from me almost instinctively and reflexively as all the natural stimuli of what I received passed immediately to my soul.

It reminded me of the verse that says, "I am doing a new thing...do you not see it?" Those tired old dead trees seemed to applaud the new life of Spring. The flowers were like starlets at a movie premiere; wearing their new gowns, they parade on the red carpet and wave to their adoring fans. The animals, like paparazzi seem to be caught up in the spectacle and in fact add to the glamour of it all.

This is God's version of a Hollywood premiere. Something new and wonderful has come--not just outside our windows but in new ways God wants to work in our lives. He wants us to know that all this new stuff is not some unique action he takes with only nature. If that were so then the newness of Spring would almost be a tease: flowers and trees can be new but nothing else can be. But I believe Spring is a message to us. Spring is what God is all about..."I make all things new!"

What needs to change in your life? What seems dead or hopeless? Where do you still feel like winter in your heart? I have good news: God makes all things new. Need something new in your career or finances? How about in your relationships or with your kids? How about with your ministry or mission in life? God is the author of Spring(s)...those in nature, and everywhere else. Believe Him and seek Him for your Spring Beginnings.

None of the Above

2008-04-16T11:42:00.000-07:00

I do not mean to pick on your candiate for president. But this picture illustrates who many people have decided to vote for this year: none of the above. While our candidates for president may not always be inspiring our nominees for the church board at The Crossing, are. Don't miss this Sunday's elections...we need you there if you are a member!

Dr. Hull to be at The Crossing

2008-04-08T06:04:00.000-07:00

Don't miss Dr. John Hull this Sunday at The Crossing. Dr. Hull has been the president of the Equip Foundation for several years and was recently appointed president of Injoy Stewardship Services by John Maxwell as well. Prior to his tenure at Equip John was the pastor of the world renowned People's Church in Toronto. Under Dr. Hull's leadership, Equip has reached and surpassed its goal of raising up and equipping 1,000,000 leaders world-wide. Equip was recently recognized as one of the finest workplaces in America. Dr. Hull is a gifted communicator and leader...do not miss his ministry!

Final Thanks in Argentina

2008-04-01T18:18:00.000-07:00

The excursion to Argentina has been unforgettable. I have made some wonderful friendships with fantastic people. I have experienced a unique culture with many beautiful qualities. I love the cuisine of Argentina. I will take empanadas or steak at a parilla any day of the week. I have seen God at work in this country in such a way that I am convinced that the future is bright for Argentina. I am already missing those I met and looking forward to my return.

The next time I come I want to visit Barioloche and San Martin de los Andes. I hear that these places are extremely beautiful. I also want to see the Southern part of South America where penguins and glaciers are common.

God has been so good to me to allow me to see another fascinating place. Argentina takes its place in my memories along with Africa, Ukraine, and Romania. I must thank those in Argentina who were such a blessing to me. My teaching partner Doug is a precious friend who is going to make a major impact on Argentina before we are finished. Of course, Horacio Fischer who is leading the charge for Equip in Neuquen was an outstanding organizer who made sure all the bases were covered. And then of course we must thank Roxana and Rodrigo. Roxana is a beautiful person who was so kind to translate for us during our sightseeing and conversations during dinner. She and her husband Rodrigo are people that I wish I could see more often as I am sure we would be close friends. Manny, our interpreter for the sessions, was not only outstanding in his work but a blast to hang with. He interpreted all six sessions, too, something I have never seen. Thank you, Daniel and Mariette for taking us to those Christian schools in the area. Thanks again to Lorenzo and Carmen for the wonderful meals and a shining example of a beautiful marriage for 52 years. And finally thanks to everyone who hugged and kissed us, served us some Mate, or just smiled at our sometimes pathetic efforts to communicate. You were a precious audience and will be great partners with us for many years.

Thanks also to the exceptional beyond description team at Equip: JM, JH, Doug C., and Caroline who gave me this opportunity. One of my proudest achievements in life is saying that I am a small part of that world-wide standard bearer of Christian organizations known as Equip.

Most of all thanks to the Lord for an amazing time.

Empty Head and a Full Heart

2008-03-29T18:57:00.000-07:00

Right now that about sums me up. But I wish everyone could feel this way. I spoke three times today finshing about an hour ago and counseled many people in between. My brain is shot but my heart is full. I cannot describe the experiences of this day adequately. I have never experienced what I have here in Argentina. The Lord just blessed me in so many ways. The people responded with applause or tears or hugs...their response was not measured. They responded out of the overflow of their hearts...and they had no intention of holding back.

When speaking on the subject of encouraging others I felt a strange leading to invite anyone who was discouraged to come and sit in the chair in front of everyone else. For a few minutes no one came and I was wondering how I was going to get out of this. Then one clearly heavy-hearted man came forward. I had someone bring him mat`e (mah`-tay) a traditional Argentine beverage meant to be shared with others. It makes Argentines feel better and gives them good fellowship with each other. I love what mate represents in Argentina and I felt like it was appropriate for this hurting man to feel loved and accepted.

Then I invited anyone who wanted to encourage him to come forward. Several hugged and kissed him. One saintly older woman came forward and held his face in her hands and looked in his eyes and said she loved him. I felt like I was looking over the shoulder of an angel at work. Then an alcoholic man walked forward and asked us to pray for him. The smell of alcohol was potent but this man was prayed over, hugged, and kissed just like the other man.

Then later in the lesson I spoke about being an example as a leader. I felt for some reason that I needed to sing, "His Eye is On The Sparrow" because it was the first song I remember hearing a singing group perform. To my knowledge I have never actually performed it publically. It absolutely blew the place apart. We sang it at the end of the conference again with a band and the words on the screen for 7-8 minutes in Spanish.

I finished the day speaking to the youth at the First Church of the Nazarene in Neuquen. And I was incredibly blessed again. By the way, just guess what we had at the youth meeting? Even in Argentina, we had pizza...but man was it good.

It was simply an amazing day. I must say muchas gracias for your prayers and support! I have wonderful friends now in Argentina and North Carolina, the home of my co-teacher Doug McClay. But I look forward to seeing all who read this blog soon.

Bendiciones! (Blessings!)

400 People in an El Camino

2008-03-28T21:23:00.000-07:00

In America the phrase creates a few mental pictures. Hispanic comedian Carlos Mencia would say it is a family immigrating to America from Mexico. Some may recall the Chevelle with a truck bed on the back of it known as an El Camino. But in Neuquen, Argentina it is the church where our first gathering of the Million Leader Conference has begun. El Camino means, "the way". How appropriate, for leaders show the way.

Tonight was an awesome experience. We greeted more than 400 people tonight with "Olla" and "Buenos Noches." In Argentina everyone, women and men, kisses you on the side of the cheek. I haven't been kissed this much since that stint I did in that 80's rock band. It is a wonderfully warm experience. (Some Argentines who moved to the States moved back because they missed the affection of the people here.) The singing of the Argentine national anthem was amazing...we all need to do better at football games after hearing them. The praise and worship was simply incredible. Doug my co-teacher said it may have been the greatest worship experience of his life. The band was tight, both musically and with God--it was a killer combination.

Manny, my interpreter did a great job for me as I opened the conference teaching about God's Call to Lead. I started at 9:40 and finished at 10:45, five minutes short of the alloted time (believe it or not). This is normal for Argentines. They live after midnight. We just finished supper at 12:30 AM. In fact they only have church on Sunday nights not Sunday mornings. Most restaurants get busy at 8 and stay open often until 1 or 2.

Today we met some government officials at a place you would not believe...McDonalds! I had a Quarter Pounder w/ Cheese and fries that tasted just like home. Those officials truly have a passion for God and for their work in the government. Argentina has a bright future.

I have a busy one. I will teach two of the five sessions tomorrow and preach at the Iglesia Del Nazareno (no, that is not Spanglish; it means: Church of the Nazarene) tomorrow night. Thanks for checking in and for praying. I will be praying for you and for Karl as he preaches Sunday...I know he will do well!

You are loved!

En Fuego

2008-03-28T03:33:00.001-07:00

Dan Patrick on ESPN used to speak of a player who was tearing up the arena in which he played as being "en fuego" or "on fire." Last night we had an experience that was en fuego as we dined at the El Asador Restaurant. El Asador is a form of cooking where the meat is suspended over an open flame at an angle. Parillas or restaurants that cook over open flames are common in Argentina.

The meat we had last night was a combination of beef, pork, lamb, and goat. It had a wonderful taste and there was more than enough for everyone. The salad bar, if it could be called that, was an amazing combination of foods artistically and aesthetically blended. It was finished off with fruits and cream as well as crepes filled with "dulce de leche" or caramel.

Yesterday we spent most of time with the leaders of two Christian schools in the area. They truly wanted our advice on how to develop support for their schools within their communities and sponsor churches. The public schools are considered to be very bad in all aspects of education and character development. As in other parts of the world, Christian education is extremely important for the future of the country.

The children are all so beautiful. We probably hindered the school work as it seemed we caught the eye of so many kids. Our American connection made us quite a curiosity.

That curiosity continued as we visited Wal-Mart. That's right, there is a Wal-Mart in Neuquen. It is not totally different from the ones we visit...except there we even more people there who speak Spanish!

We begin our conference tonight with over 500 Christian leaders from this area of Argentina. We truly need your prayers...blessings!

Wonderful Fellowship in Neuquen

2008-03-27T03:21:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of the park we visited yesterday that overlooks the city. Last night after the finishing the tour of the city of Neuquen (pronounced No-kem) we were blessed to sit down to a traditonal Argentinian meal with three families, one of which has been pastoring in Argentina for nearly 50 years. By the way we had empanadas, a wonderful tasting pastry with either meat or vegetables baked inside them. Fresh fruit and "cafe" or coffee topped off the evening.

My co-teacher, Doug McClay and I peppered them with questions about Argentina that they were only too happy to answer. They shared the differences in Argenitinian culture and the need for leadership training. There is no question Argentina could be a major world power for the Lord. They are a wondeful people with diversity, culture, and passion. I already admire them. The language barrier was toppled by Roxana an English teacher here in Neuquen. But the Holy Spirit also connected us with each other in spite of our different heritages and upbringings.

Maybe some of you are not as familiar with Argentina as I have had to be to come here. Argentina is the country at the bottom of South America. In fact I am further South than I was in Capetown, South Africa. There are many famous athletes in the States from here: Angel Cabrera who won the US Open Golf tournament last year, Manu Ginobli the forward for the Spurs, Gabriela Sabatini the tennis player from the 80's and 90's to name a few. The Argentina basketball was the first team to beat Team USA since the use of NBA players began. Maybe their most famous and beloved athlete is Diego Marodona who was one of the greatest soccer (futbol) players in the history of the sport.

They have great rivalries in soccer within the country. Boca vs. River feels to them about like Ohio State vs. Michigan feels to me. Well thanks for reading and checking in. I continue to covet your prayers as we prepare to speak...there is no doubt about the opportunity that exists here in Argentina for the Kingdom. Please remember Karl as he prepares to speak at The Crossing this Sunday--I know he will knock it out of the park!

To the next time...olla!

Argentina Expedition

2008-03-26T07:45:00.000-07:00

I have made it to Neuquen, Argentina in Southern South America. What an incredible place. I am here speaking on behalf of the Equip Foundation. Please pray for God to bless our time with these 500 pastors and business leaders. We will be teaching John Maxwell's leadership materials as a part of Equip's Million Leader Mandate.

The area we are in is beautiful with warm air and clear skies. The food has been excellent; we had lamb for lunch with strawberries for dessert. We are visiting a beautiful Andes mountain resort tomorrow...hoepfully I will have some pictures for you.

Thanks again for your prayers and tune in each day for updates.

Passion Week, Day 3- Reasons for the Haze

2008-03-20T08:13:00.000-07:00

As we near the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, many athletes around the world, not to mention the image conscious Chinese government, are worried about the haze of pollution that hangs over the city of Beijing. Some athletes especially in outdoor stamina events may wear breathing masks during their events. Beijing officials are considering extra measures to reduce pollution such as limiting the number of vehicles on the road and actually building massive exhaust fans to blow the haze into the countryside.

Those defending Beijing say that a topographical and meteorological anomalies that can't be helped are to blame. The reasons for the haze according to China is that Beijing sits physically in sort of a bowl under a weather-generated lid which traps the pollution in the city. Of course, Communist countries have always lagged behind Democratic countries in pollution control and industrial safety. (See Chernobyl) But admitting mistakes is the last thing a totalitarian regime would ever do and there is no one with influence ver them willing or able to call them on it.

While this behavior may be typical of governments it is not atypical of people. From the very beginning we have blamed things on others or on circumstances that we say or think can't be helped. I wonder what excuses for misunderstanding Christ's mission could have been offered by those in the first Easter? What would be their reasons for the haze that kept them from seeing and understanding what Christ was doing? Truly they were blinded but blinded by what?

For many it was fear. For others (like the Jewish religious leaders) it was jealousy. For some it was simple selfishness. For others it just simply the haze of ignorance--they just didn't know enough. They all had reasons for the haze. Do you and I? Is there something we are missing because we refuse to see God and what he is doing right now that may be big? What are your reasons for the haze and most importantly what are you going to do get rid of the pollution between you and God?

There are, like in Beijing, some natural barriers to connecting with him. But reduce the amount of traffic in your mind and life and spend somwe extra time with him in prayer, Bible study, and church attendance. I think you will find that the Holy wind of the Spirit will begin to blow away the smoke between you and God. At least you and I won't have any more haze for which we have to find reasons.

Passion Week Day 2: Varied Sample Group

2008-03-19T12:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we mentioned that nearly all the participants in the first Easter story completely missed what was really going on. Interestingly, that group was very diverse. In polling, those surveys having what statisticians call a "varied sample group" (VSG) contain information considered to be more solid than surveys from only one group of people. Certainly those Passion week witnesses were a significantly broad and varied sample group.

They spanned the gamut: wealthy to poor; highly educated to completely unschooled; men and women; young to old; white collar to blue collar; white skinned to brown skinned; locals to travelers; people from every background, personality, and even religious experience. Religious experience...that may be the most interesting one of all.

This VSG had those who were highly religious but not necessarily spiritual--the religious leaders. Then there were the highly spiritual but not necessarily religious ones--the women who came to anoint the body. And you also had those who were somewhere in the middle--the disciples and many of the people. And finally, those who were neither--Romans, some of the Jews, and some of the travelers.

I think a 2008 VSG would not be much different than one from the first Easter...those who missed it before are not unlike those who may be missing out on something big God is doing now. Education on one hand or simplicity on the other is no hedge against missing out. The strength of wealth or the humility of poverty does not in either case help you to better see what God is doing. Even thinking you are religious or spiritual will not help you necessarily to "get it". So don't count on any of those things because if you do, you will have one more trait in common with the first Easter's varied sample group.

Passion Week Day 1: Oblivious to Something Big

2008-03-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

The birth and death of Jesus are similar in the sense that everyone seems to be oblivious to what is really going on. The weird thing is that someone should have had known, especially as it relates to Jesus' death.

Have you seen the Arby's commercial where people have an Arby's logo on their heads because they are thinking of Arby's? In the story of Jesus' death everyone--and I mean everyone--is walking around with a big question mark on their head. The biggest thing in the world is happening right in front of them and no one has a clue...not even those who knew Him and loved Him the most. Even the people He told what would happen could not seem to figure out why things were playing out as they did.

How could this be?

It ought to scare us a little...Christ Followers missing something big God is doing. Could you and I miss out on something big? Can we get distracted and busy and caught up with life? Could we think we are so right only to discover we could not have been more wrong? Yes, unfortunately.

Thankfully God won't leave us in the dark for too long. All of our doubts will eventually become opportunities to touch his wounds and prove his words. Humility is the key. May none of us ever assume we have it all figured out. We may actually discover that all along we have been oblivious to something really big.

Guest Blog By My Son, Landon

2008-03-17T08:25:00.000-07:00

Contentedness sucks.

It’s something that you can't really work toward; it's more a result of all the right actions taken in the right sequence. Or at least that's what I tell myself when I figure being content is impossible.

Being content is every facet of my life being not bad. Or at least that's what I tell myself when I figure being content is impossible.

It's one of those ideas that is just too big for me to wrap my head around; like how God has no beginning or how at one time in history God may have literally set time aside to make Landon Saunders. Or at least that’s what I tell myself when I figure being content is impossible.

Being content is the one elusive thing that celebrities and the homeless alike can never seem to find; simply because there are so many things that can and do go wrong in life. Or at least that’s what I tell myself when I figure being content is impossible.

Being content is a state of being, but somehow it is a state that I always seem to drive through and never get to stop and look around in; like Kentucky or Virginia. Or at least that’s what I tell myself when I figure being content is impossible.

And then...

I see a baby finding his hands and their functions for the first time, or my three year old cousin slipping on his Spiderman web shooting gloves, or my dog Daisy when someone will finally give her a piece of whatever they are eating, or my dad when word gets to him of me or Logan truly displaying God's love, or when my Mother has Starbucks, Michael McDonald's new CD, and any car to speed in, or when Jesse hears that one girly song that he somehow knows all the words to, or when Adam comes to the end of a long line to receive his very own copy of Super Smash Bros. Brawl, or Brandon (Jesse, Adam, and Brandon are good friends) whenever I bring home treats from work, or my great grandfather whenever he hears my dad preach.

It’s then when I realize contentedness isn’t a state of things or a result of certain events. It’s simply a gift granted from God to me; something that has no specific formula or route other than loving my Creator and him loving me back, and doing in that exact moment in time exactly what God intended me to do.

Or at least that’s what He tells me when I figure being content is impossible.

Mad At Hell

2008-03-13T05:50:00.001-07:00

Last night was an incredible gathering for the people who meet in my small group. We use a curriculum based on the message I do each week. We, like always had good food and enjoyable conversations prior to beginning our study.

But last night's time of study was especially powerful. Our focus was Judges 6 & 7 and the defying-the-odds-to-go-Over-the-Edge life of Gideon. Of course it is our understanding that Gideon's life is the life we have all been called to live. As Christ was the ultimate over-the-edger, God wants lead us all where Christ went--where it is not comfortable, predictable, or safe--but to where life is good.

Two key questions emerged as we discovered what God had to do in Gideon's life to use him. Since God had to change the way Gideon saw himself we asked, "What will God need to change in the way you see yourself before he can use you in an over the edge way?" You should have heard the honesty and trust people expressed sharing what God needed to do within them. Probably some of you have the same challenges before God can use you: self-doubt, fear of failure, confidence, control--things we all struggle with. We prayed for God to help us with those things.

The second question was based on good anger...the kind Jesus had in the temple, David had towards Goliath, and Gideon had about the plight of the people. Gideon was so angry about the condition of his people that he didn't have the normal reactions people have when they see an angel (fainting, terror, losing bodily control, etc). He got in the angel's face basically and questioned the assertion that, "God is with you," as the angel said. But the angel who later became God himself told Gideon to go in "this" strength, the strength of his anger for the condition of the people and lead them in defeating the Midianites who oppressed them.

"This strength" is that which burns in righteous indignation within you. What is it that burns in you? What is it that makes you question God and or even be angry enough to get in an angel's face? What is it that makes you not "mad as hell" but mad at hell for the evil in the world? Is it racism? Is it child pornography? Is it broken homes? Is it disease, hunger, or injustice? Is it the fact that millions of people all round us are going to spend eternity in hell? What makes you mad?

We came to a painful conclusion last night...we are not mad enough. Either it is the busyness of life, or comfort, or money, but something has us all going through life singing, "Don't Worry, Be Happy." Our anger-motivated-I'm-taking-a stand-for-Christ-lives amounted to little more than putting a fish on our cars. Not good considering the fact that when we get mad it is probably road rage. Sadly our anger is usually about a perceived injustice to ourselves not others.

God we need your help...we need a cause. We need something to burn within us. We have been lukewarm for far too long. You would rather have us be cold-hearted or red-hot for you than be passionless and tepid for you. Whatever is choking out the fire that should burn within us for you and others please release its grip or show us its fingers. And God, identify and ignite what things we should burn for. We are tired of just going through the motions...take us over the edge!

Something Is Happening

2008-03-12T09:28:00.000-07:00

I have heard several people who have attended the last two services say they sense something is happening at The Crossing. Now I don't know what that may mean but I have sensed something in my own messages. Maybe it is the Over The Edge series. I mean the topic is powerful and God is speaking powerfully through it. I am encouraged to see where things are going. I see energy in some of our new leaders and in some who have been around longer. Now some others may see less than a rosy asessment of The Crossing. But then again Gideon's army didn't look too mighty as 300 marched out to conquer the 100,000 Midianites. But I do feel like something is happening...let it happen!

Group Dynamics and The Crossing 'Club'

2008-03-11T05:52:00.000-07:00

Most of us would agree--our auditorium is not conducive to good group dynamics. We have 500 seats occupied by about 120 people sitting in scattered clumps all over the auditorium. Imagine a family meal with 2 people in the kitchen, 3 in the living room, 2 more in a bedroom, and one guest sitting in the dining room. That is the feel in our church. Maybe the family doesn't mind because they see each other all the time, but the guest feels strangely alone at what is supposed to be a 'gathering.'

Something good happens when people experience things together but we are spread out all over the place at The Crossing. I think our experiences would be greatly improved if we were sitting closer together. So we put up pipe and drape to change the feel in there. Now we did not do a very good job with it because we failed to inform and include people in the process. They walked in Sunday and there it was. And unfortunately some reacted rather strongly...too strongly I feel. But I will talk more about that later.

The biggest concern is how new people feel when they walk in to our church. They see a bunch of people in the foyer laughing and having a good time. But when they enter the auditorium it looks and feels lifeless and empty (partly because so many are still out in the lobby hanging out with their friends). First timers usually walk immediately into the auditorium because they do not have friends out in the lobby to talk with. I wish that would change too. I wish our people would put their focus on the new people whenever they are there and make them feel included. What is more important than new people?

I think we have the mindset that The Crossing is sort of like a club. A club exists for the sake of its members. The mission of the club is to make sure the members are well taken care of. The club's workers worry about the members and their needs.

But if we are a club at The Crossing we are called to be a very different kind of club. We exist for the sake of those who are not yet members. Our mission is to make sure the non-members are well taken care of. Our workers are to worry primarily about the non-members and their needs. In fact, membership in this club, the church of Jesus Christ means you become one of the workers. In this club the members are serving the non-members.

As members of God's kingdom at The Crossing our job is to think about those who are not part of God's Kingdom and to worry about them. They are facing an eternity in hell. But so often I see those who call The Crossing home (those who are supposed to be the workers) worrying about what they are getting out of it. They are thinking like members of a club.

We cannot be selfish...nothing about us can have that vibe. This past Sunday we learned that Gideon sent home 97% of his army because they were only thinking of themselves. We must keep our perspective. We are members of an 'un-club'. The un-club's members are called to serve not be served. That is the story of our Founder who left the most exclusive club, Heaven, to serve mankind on Earth by giving his life. But what are we willing to give up for lost people when we walk into The Crossing? If we are going to be a church founded on Christ we cannot be anything that looks like a club.

That is why the pipe and drape was put up, that is why we are trying to make things better in the auditorium for everyone, most especially new people, and that is why our people must come to The Crossing every week and not think of themselves. That alone will probably change the group dynamics as much as anything. People will feel the love and sense the unselfishness and it will draw them to Christ!

Mulan Performances By Buford Middle School

2008-02-12T06:07:00.000-08:00

My son Logan as well as Brandon Cheatham, Michael Lane, Sammy Morgan, and Derek Smith, all kids from The Crossing are performing in Disney's Mulan, tonight and Thursday night at 7:00 PM at the Buford Performing Arts Center. Most of the kids have lead roles. Tickets are $7.

2008-02-12T05:52:00.000-08:00

I began a new series Sunday about relationships. Here is the outline from Sunday.

Stuck On You: The Music of Lasting Relationships
"I Will Fight for Your Honor"
Ephesians 5:21, 25-33, Proverbs 15:15-23

Relationships, like good music, have rhythm, melody, words, and harmony.

1. The Rhythm of a Good Husband
Keep in step with Christ.

2. The Melody of a Good Husband
Keep in tune by giving.

3. The Words of a Good Husband
Say what makes her shine.

4. The Harmony of Being a Good Husband
Blend in:
- Prayer
- Providing
- Partners

What About Bob?

2008-01-22T07:48:00.000-08:00

Some of you have been curious about Bob Bennett and his song, "Mountain Cathedrals" referenced in my last blog. To my great surprise and pleasure, Bob commented on my article. I was thrilled to hear from him.

I wanted to give you all some contact info to access his music. There is a 25th Anniversary CD Version of Matters of the Heart with "Mountain Cathedrals" coming out soon. You can find out about his music and life at www.bob-bennett.com. Thanks again Bob for being you!

Mountain Cathedrals

2008-01-17T08:10:00.000-08:00

Man I love the mountains. I am holed up today in the Clayton Inn restaurant in the north GA mountain burg of Clayton. I had intended to find a cozy coffee shop to work on messages and blogs but all of them are closed because of...you guessed it, the weather.

I drove up here today just to be in this wonderful slice of creation--beautiful mountains, freshened by new snow. I think the air in the mountains is like water from a spring...fresher and cleaner. Of course, where I am from, this isn't much snow but in GA it is the closest we have been to it in awhile.

I really feel I needed this atmosphere..the purity of snow, the comforting wrap of the mountains, the slow pace of a quiet town. I guess I just wanted to crawl under mom and dad's covers like I did as a child. Somehow a snowy mountain view through a window by the fireplace seems to get me closer. The cold outside somehow makes this old fireplace here even more nurturing as happy voices in the background tell me others are enjoying the ambience.

I thank God for this church of creation, this mountain cathedral. Christian musician Bob Bennett wrote a song by that title back in the 80's. Check out the words:

I've sung in mountain cathedrals
With steeples rising high
And altars made of evergreen -
Windows made of sky
And windows made of sky

I've dreamed of stars in the heavens
And starfish in the sea
And wondered how the heart of God
Could care so much for me
Could care - so much for me

I've never been a strong man
At least outside the skin
And I'm eager and afraid at the same time
To move from where I've been
To move - from where I've been

I've sung in mountain cathedrals
With steeples rising high
And altars made of evergreen -
Windows made of sky
And windows made of sky

That second verse says, in affect, I have wondered as I see the greatness of creation how God could care so much for me. I know he cares for me today. And my precious friends...he cares for you. I hope you know it today even if you can't hang out in a mountain cathedral.

Enthroned

2008-01-14T10:47:00.000-08:00

This past week I started a new series called, "Enthroned". Samuel the prophet anointed David as king. He had been selected by God to be the king and been given the spiritual power to lead through the anointing. But he had not been enthroned as king. He did not have the seat of power, the military authority, or national resources at his disposal. He had the title of king but not the position of king. In fact, David had been anointed king for many years before he actually was enthroned as king.

I found that similar to what happens in our lives. We may recognize Jesus as Lord and King of our lives but it may take a while before he is actually enthroned as Lord of our lives. We may call him, "King" but is he really king? Does he have the position of power over our will? Does he control our actions? Is he in charge of our money? Or is he just the one we call king, anointed but not enthroned?

The difference between the two is clear. Their will be no sharing of power. He is either in absolute control with total authority or he isn't. The funny thing is, even though he is the king, it is you and I have that have all the power until he is enthroned in our lives. And even then we can stage a coup and overthrow his Kingship any time we want. But of course there are always ramifications. When he is in charge he keeps the place clean. To overthrow him is to welcome back all the trash we originally threw out.

So who is king of your heart today? Have you turned over the keys to the kingdom to Christ? Keep him there by surrendering everyday. Jesus taught us to pray for this..."Your Kingdom come, Your will be done." This is the prayer of someone who is enthroning Him everyday. And you will never be sorry that He is your King!

The Victory of ‘We’

2007-12-11T08:45:00.000-08:00

When you read Isaiah 9:1-7, the prophecy of Christ's coming, you see that the winners are always a group of people. “Those”, “their”, “they”, etc., are examples of the personal pronouns used in the passage. Together is a real theme in Isaiah 9. Now we all know there are good guys and bad guys in the original Christmas story. The good guys would be Mary and Joseph, the shepherds, and the Magi. The bad guys would be the innkeeper and King Herod. There is one distinctive difference between the good guys and the bad guys. The good guys always seem to be making their appearance in the Christmas story as a group, together. But the bad guys always seem to be appearing as individuals, apart from a group, alone. Coincidence? I don’t think so.

There is power in numbers and weakness without them. Very little has ever happened by individuals…it has always been the teams that made a difference. Whatever you might do in life, it will go better with a team. We all want to be independent but life will go better if we decide to be independent together.

What are the benefits of being independent together? What good does having others with me do for me that being more alone can’t?

1. I am motivated to succeed by others.
2. I can see my strengths and flaws much better through others.
3. I can hang in there longer with others encouraging me.
4. I can be a complete person with the complimentary strengths of others.
5. I can see the situation better and act in a way better for all.
6. I can enjoy a victory or get over a loss better with others.

The innkeeper listened to his own voice shut out the maker of the universe, his savior and Lord. He could have at least been able to say that Jesus slept here! And Herod took only his own advice and became a monster.

God’s plan for the invasion was that his people would function as a team. Joseph, by himself, was about to make the wrong decision about Mary. But he listened to voices other than his own (specifically the Lord’s voice though an angel) and made the right decision. The shepherds talked among themselves and said “let us go see this thing that has happened.” The magi discussed the meaning of the stars together and traveled together to see Jesus. Mary and Joseph worked together. Together, good things happen!

Listening is a key element of functioning as a team. Listening isn’t easy but here are a few people who should listen to others. If you do you will probably have a better life.

1. Husbands should listen to their wives.
2. Teens should listen to their parents.
3. Older adults should listen to younger adults.
4. Leaders should listen to their followers.
5. Everyone should listen to God.

The Christmas Wars

2007-12-05T11:02:00.000-08:00

Sine I am doing a series on The Invasion Of God I thought it would be good to take a moment to dive into the debate about traditional Christian Christmas displays on public land and all the things that people complain about at Christmas. That sounds like quite an undertaking but I have made it easy for myself. I am going to quote you a letter from Jesus about the Holidays that someone sent me that pretty much sums up my feelings on it.

Before you read it I just want you to know that I do not feel that these things are worth a big fight. Having Christian displays in the town square is not the mission of the church. So I am not much of a protester on this subject. There other things worth a fight...I don't believe this one is. Make sure and read my last article right below this one. Here we go...

Dear Children,

It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. Maybe you've forgotten that I wasn't actually born during this time of the year and that it was some of your predecessors who decided to celebrate My birthday on what was actually a time of pagan festival. Although I do appreciate being remembered anytime.

How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.

Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8.

If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it:

1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time.

2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.

3. Instead of writing George complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up. It will be nice hearing from you again.

4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.

5. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile; it could make the difference.

6. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their families.

7. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary-- especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name.

8. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you.

9. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine.

Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember,

I LOVE YOU,
JESUS

Native-ivity

2007-12-05T10:00:00.000-08:00

I don't know if it has been created before me but I have made a new word: Native-ivity. This is the tendency to make the things that man has added to the original Nativity, the things that we really love about Christmas. For us who struggle with Native-ivity, Christmas is about the things native or natural to us that we love about Christmas: family traditions, holiday trimmings, buying presents, Christmas specials, etc. It is a personal picture of the perfect Christmas. Therefore the whole season can be frustrating for those of us with Native-ivity because we cannot make it like we would like to. How Mary and Joseph must have related. The Nativity scene depicted in little ceramic or wooden sets were certainly not the images they intended for the first Christmas. Talk about a rough Christmas...do you think Joseph envisioned a stable for the birth of God with 20 gawking Shepherds?

For me, Native-ivity sufferer that I am, I struggle with the fact that my kids are so much older now. The Christmas wish list is about clothes and money and no fun items. I have no toys to put together. I have no tents, model trains, or bicycles to create a visual impact for the Christmas morning palooza. Things are changing and Native-ivity is bringing me down a little during this most wonderful time of the year.

As some of the things that made Christmas special are slowly dissolving in the sands of time it is easy to feel a range of emotions from sadness to depression to outright anger. In fact some of us are trying to force Christmas to be what we want it to be. Family members are feeling pressure from us to conform to the perfect Christmas picture that Native-ivity has created in our minds. The success of the present Christmas in some ways is threatened by the success of the past ones.

But it is important to remember some things if Native-ivity with all of its symptoms has set in. First, the past is always remembered more fondly than what it really was. Secondly the present is often thought of less positively than what it really is. Thirdly, there is no guarantee that what you will experience in the future won't be better than what you have experienced before. And lastly, the point of the whole thing is The Nativity, something that a serious case of Native-ivity will often hide or at least obscure. Don't let what isn't this Christmas keep you from experiencing what is and will always be...today in the town of Bethlehem a savior has been born to you and he is Christ the King!

Battles and Babies?

2007-12-03T12:36:00.001-08:00

I have been doing a Christmas series about the Invasion of God. As I have thought about the original Christmas story and the whole invasion thing I am struck by how Jesus came. All the talk about a military conquest in Isaiah 9 sandwiched around the story of a baby being born is really strange. I have seen a few shows blend their casts and stories but this combo in Isaish 9 is like blending The Military Channel's, Weaponology with TLC's, A Baby Story. Battles and babies...can they actually go together? They did then.

Jesus birth was actually a logical military tactic much like the Trojan horse (above), used by the Greeks to defeat the Trojans centuries ago. The horse appeared to be a large idol left to appease the gods of the Trojans and apologize for the war the Greeks had started. The Trojans’ strength was a massive wall that the Greeks could not breach and it appeared that they had abandoned their efforts to take Troy when they left the horse outside the city walls. But after the men of Troy brought the Trojan horse inside the city they discovered to their horror that several Greeks were hiding in the horse. They broke out and opened the massive gates, allowing the hiding Greek army to enter Troy and destroy it.

God came to earth not in the disguise of horse shaped idol but in the shape of a baby. He did not come as one would expect the ruler of the universe to come...with power, pomp, and coerciveness. Coming as a baby in a borrowed stable was about as below the radar as you could be. He chose not the route of power, though he had all the power one could have. He came not with cleverness to trick people into following him though he has all knowledge and could have easily done so. He laid down all he was and had and became the lowest and most humble thing he could be to reach us.

I think this is very instructive for all of us. Over whom do you hope and maybe even need to have influence? Your...spouse, neighbors, co-workers, customers, or kids? Aspire to wrap your efforts in the most humble, Christlike package you can muster. Forget who you are and what you have and humble yourself to those you really care about. And then watch how God uses that seemingly weak approach in a very powerful way! That was God's approach in sending Jesus to a broken world. Though having power through humility seems to go together like battles and babies somehow it works.

What Will Matter?

2007-12-03T11:47:00.000-08:00

Check out this great poem that really sums up life. I do not have permission to print it so I am linking you to a website that has it.

http://www.charactercounts.org/pdf/whatwillmatter-1203.pdf

Victorious Invaders

2007-11-28T14:04:00.000-08:00

I have begun a new series called, "The Invasion of God" which is a Christmas series about Jesus coming to Earth. Jesus' birth was an invasion, the opening salvo in the battle completed when Jesus said, "It is finished" on the cross.

I believe the way Jesus came to earth is an illustration of how God moves and works. Jesus' coming to earth was a winning, victorious invasion in every sense. And I believe that God wants us to be victorious invaders in all we need to do for him.

This world is in some way "enemy territory", the place where Satan is in charge.

You followed the ways of this world and obeyed the devil. He rules the world, and his spirit has power over everyone who doesn't obey God. Ephesians 2:2 (CEV)

Making an impact for God in Satan’s world must necessarily be deemed an invasion.

Invasion really is going and taking action—there is no more discussion or planning...just action. To make an impact for God in someone’s life I have to act and invade their world and fight against the enemy. To help my kids I have to act and invade their world and fight the enemy who also wants them. In some ways we even have to act and invade the recesses of our minds and claim the thoughts the enemy has placed there that are wrong. As a congregation we have to act and invade the world of the Mill Creek area in spite of the fact the enemy has claim those lives.

But to do anything for God we must get the mindset of a victorious invader:

A Victorious Invader has...
-A conviction that this action is right and absolutely must be done. (Jesus had to come to earth to redeem us.)
-A certainty of success because God is doing it. (The prophecies were given and the angels were praising and rejoicing before Jesus was even born.)
-A commitment to sacrifice totally to win. (Jesus was slain before the foundation of the world.)
-A compulsion to go and act. (After all the prophecies and talk it was time for Jesus to go and be born.)
-A concentration on the prize not the price of victory. (Jesus endured the pain of the cross by keeping his focus on the prize of redeeming the world.)

As 2008 approaches you will only be able to accomplish what God wants you to accomplish if you have this mindset. What do you have to do for God? Pray and think about it. Take some time to read Numbers 13:25-33; 14:1-10. Notice how not having this victorious mindset ruined the ability of God's people to take new, wonderful ground for God.

I think it all begins with having the conviction that what God wants me to do is right and absolutely must be done. Get that right and it is much easier to have a certainty, and commitment, a compulsion, and a concentration. Lose that conviction and it sows doubt into all the other mindsets necessary to succeed. So assess where you are.

Someone once said, “If you think you can or you think you can’t, you are right.” Ask God to transform your thoughts into a victorious mindset. Look out when he does!

Your Most Basic Act of Worship

2007-10-25T05:16:00.000-07:00

I was recently reminded of an article I gave a friend called Your Most Basic Act of Worship. Here it is:

Lord, I'm Yours. Whatever the cost may be, may Your will be done in my life. I realize I'm not here on earth to do my own thing, or to seek my own fulfillment or my own glory. I'm not here to indulge my desires, to increase my possessions, to impress people, to be popular, to prove I'm somebody important, or to promote myself. I'm not here even to be relevant or successful by human standards. I'm here to please you.

I offer myself to You, for You are worthy. All that I am or hope to be, I owe to You. I'm Yours by creation, and every day I receive from You life and breath and all things. And I'm Yours because You bought me, and the price You paid was the precious blood of Christ. You alone, the Triune God, are worthy to be my Lord and Master. I yield to You, my gracious and glorious heavenly Father; to the Lord Jesus who loved me and gave Himself for me; to the Holy Spirit and His gracious influence and empowering.

All that I am and all that I have I give to You.
I give You any rebellion in me, that resists doing Your will. I give You my pride and self-dependence, that tell me I can do Your will in my own power if I try hard enough. I give You my fears, that tell me I'll never be able to do Your will in some areas of life. I consent to let You energize me…to create within me, moment by moment, both the desire and the power to do Your will.

I give You my body and each of its members…my entire inner being; my mind, my emotional life, my will…my loved ones…my marriage or my hopes for marriage…my abilities and gifts…my strengths and weaknesses…my health…my status (high or low)…my possessions…my past, my present and my future…when and how I'll go Home.

I'm here to love You, to obey You, to glorify You…May I be a joy to You!

Appointments

2007-10-08T07:28:00.000-07:00

Leaders...Have a you had your appointment yet today? For those who were working with the kids or were absent yesterday, I spoke about those of whom Jesus said, "These people honor me with their lips but their hearts are far from me." These were seemingly spiritual people, involved in ministry, and admired by others. But their condition was very different from their public persona. They did not have God as the central focus of their time, interest, or passion even though they were spiritual leaders. Their position as leaders pressured them to rely on themselves and to put on a spiritual performance among the people to mask their distance from God. But God always knows, especially when it comes to our hearts.

In I Samuel 13:6-13, we read about Saul another leader whose self-reliance and distance from God torpedoed his leadership. Here is the text from The Message:

6-7 When the Israelites saw that they were way outnumbered and in deep trouble, they ran for cover, hiding in caves and pits, ravines and brambles and cisterns—wherever. They retreated across the Jordan River, refugees fleeing to the country of Gad and Gilead. But Saul held his ground in Gilgal, his soldiers still with him but scared to death.

8 He waited seven days, the time set by Samuel. Samuel failed to show up at Gilgal, and the soldiers were slipping away, right and left.

9-10 So Saul took charge: "Bring me the burnt offering and the peace offerings!" He went ahead and sacrificed the burnt offering. No sooner had he done it than Samuel showed up! Saul greeted him.

11-12 Samuel said, "What on earth are you doing?"

Saul answered, "When I saw I was losing my army from under me, and that you hadn't come when you said you would, and that the Philistines were poised at Micmash, I said, 'The Philistines are about to come down on me in Gilgal, and I haven't yet come before God asking for his help.' So I took things into my own hands, and sacrificed the burnt offering."

13-14 "That was a fool thing to do," Samuel said to Saul. "If you had kept the appointment that your God commanded, by now God would have set a firm and lasting foundation under your kingly rule over Israel. As it is, your kingly rule is already falling to pieces. God is out looking for your replacement right now. This time he'll do the choosing. When he finds him, he'll appoint him leader of his people. And all because you didn't keep your appointment with God!"

Notice in vs. 11-12, Saul is under a great deal of pressure that causes him to "take things into his own hands." But Samuel's response is that Saul should have waited on God in spite of the pressure he was feeling. He should have, kept his appointment with God. I am convinced this is the key phrase that we as leaders need to see...we have to make and keep a daily appointment with God. The pressures of life are no excuse for leaders to take things in their own hands, rely on themselves, and put on a spiritual show to mask their failure to be with God. Read the Bible, pray about specific things in your life, your ministry, your church, and your family. Make God the central focus of your heart, by keeping you appointment with everyday.

In fact, let's conduct an experiment. Let's see what happens at The Crossing when the leaders keep their appointments with God for a whole week. Let's see what happens in your home, family, spiritual life. Meet at the front during prayer at 10:20 this Sunday and let's share what God has done in our lives this week!

Program Humor

2007-10-02T06:54:00.000-07:00

Thank the Lord for church ladies with typewriters. These sentences actually appeared in church bulletins or were announced in church services. Check these out!
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The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals.
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The church will host an evening of fine dining, super entertainment and gracious hostility.
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The pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the congregation would lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday.
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The peacemaking meeting scheduled for today has been canceled due to a conflict.
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Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our community. Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say "Hell" to someone who doesn't care much about you.
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Weight Watchers will meet at 7pm at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.
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Miss Charlene Mason sang "I will not pass this way again," giving obvious pleasure to the congregation.
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For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.
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Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get.
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The Rector will preach his farewell message after which the choir will sing: "Break Forth Into Joy."
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Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on October 24 in the church. So ends a friendship that began in their school days.
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At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be "What Is Hell?" Come early and listen to our choir practice.
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Eight new choir robes are currently needed due to the addition of several new members and to the deterioration of some older ones.
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Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.
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Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered.
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The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.
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This evening at 7pm there will be a hymn singing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.
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Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10am. All ladies are invited to lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B. S. is done.
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Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7pm. Please use the back door.
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The eighth- graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement Friday at 7pm. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.
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Don't let worry kill you off - let the Church help.
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The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new tithing campaign slogan last Sunday: "I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours"
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Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your husbands!

A Seven Pound Summer

2007-09-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

The fall has truly begun at my house. Labor Day concluded with Jerry Lewis singing, "You'll Never Walk Alone" (I grew up watching the MDA telethon.) The wickedly hot weather has eased a bit, Shelli has her fall decorations out (vast amounts of artificial fall-like stuff) and football teams at every level have at least played one game. Fall is here and I love it! It is the most wonderful time of the year for me.

But somehow over the summer, I gained seven pounds. I say 'somehow' as if I think someone mysteriously snuck in to my room in the night and put weight on me. How did it happen? Let's see...vacation: that's worth a few pounds. Company: with about 21 days of company I probably added a few more. Broken routine: that is definitely worth some weight. I am probably not alone in my new found summer girth. So I am back on the diet and exercise plan that helped me to lose several pounds and inches. this past spring. I wonder though if there are not other ways we need to fix the summer's impact on us? Something to think about

Unsung Heroes

2007-08-27T12:08:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to take some time to thank some great folks who either work behind the scenes at The Crossing or have just been caught doing something really nice. In the second category, I want to thank Alex and Christina Dixon for making cookies and giving them out to people at church. They did it just because they wanted to be nice...thanks kids (and Patti)!

Those working behind the scenes...
-Thanks Shelley Smith for setting up the Children's Church area every week. This is a labor of love that Shelley does every week when no one is looking. Thanks Shelley-- when you bless kids, you bless God's heart!
-Thanks to Lisa Alspach and Glen O'Loughlin for making the coffee every week.
-Thanks to Daniel Cheatham for driving the truck every week. Thanks to all the guys who do setup as well!
-Thanks to those who work with children every week at The Crossing.
If you have someone we should honor let us know.

One and Only

2007-08-27T07:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we discussed the question, "what is the central point of the Bible?" I have thought about this for 20 years. Obviously to attempt to answer a statement like this is to invite controversy. I know there may be many honestly held ideas but I have not stumbled into my understanding. I believe the center of it all..the word of God, the mission of Jesus, and of the church, and even the point of attack for the enemy is oneness. God wants us to be one with him and with each other. Below is a very brief summary of oneness and Biblical history.

-God is one (Deut. 6:4)--the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in a trinity which is simply a union or oneness of three things.
-God made mankind to be one with him illustrated by the picture of Adam and God walking in the cool of the evening in the garden in an intimate fellowship.
-God made mankind to be one with each other illustrated by the intimacy of Adam and Eve, the first people.
-The fall of man broke the intimacy between God and mankind. Adam and Eve immediately began to hide from God and each other; clearly their oneness has been ruined.
-The books of the law in the Old Testament provide a system for mankind to have partial oneness with God and each other. But this system is insufficient, temporary, and looks forward to the day when a better solution to man's loss of oneness with God and each other will be provided.
-Jesus ministry is all about restoring the oneness that has been lost in the fall of man. When asked about the greatest commandment Jesus says to love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself. That sums up exactly what God created and was lost in the Garden of Eden. Love is the action and emotion of oneness.
-And of course during Jesus' prayer in John 17 he talks about his oneness with the Father and his hope for his mission and for the people of the world to have the same oneness that he has.
-The early church became one and was used mightily to change 1000's of lives.
-And in the end we shall go to be with the father and with each other...together as one, forever in heaven. The restoration is complete... mankind is again one with his Creator and with each other.

So what does this all mean? It means that what God wants of is us to become one with him and each other. And our mission in life is to help more and more people to do the same. One and only!

Back to School and Many Other Things

2007-08-08T05:29:00.000-07:00

The summer is great. The freedom...the relaxation...the rest. It is good to blow off some steam, break your routine, and not be bound by 'normal' life. It is important to visit family and friends, build better relationships, and create lasting memories. I think God wants us to have this time and we definitely need it especially living in the ATL.

But I am glad it is over! School starts for us tomorrow and it signals, for the Saunders' home at least, the return of normal, structured life--yes! I need the summer but after awhile I am ready to get rid of it. It has been great but I am ready for the fall and getting back to school and...many other things. Here are some of those other things:

1. I am ready to see my friends at church consistently. Most people miss between 2-5 Sundays in the summer with a few missing many more. The Crossing is like a family and when members of the family who were always there are suddenly gone it can be disappointing. And as good as the summer has been for us at The Crossing, there should be a good crowd there when everyone gets back.

2. I am ready to organize my life. The summer has been chaotic and routineless at times. Though not necessarily a neat person I do need consistency. I can handle chaos better than others but I don't thrive in it. I can hear many of you nodding in agreement about yourselves; you are ready for some order.

3. I am ready to see some big things happen at The Crossing. It just seems like some big things are coming this fall and I am excited about it. The fall is often a time for growth but this fall could be especially memorable...and I can't wait. You will be hearing more about it.

4. Oh and one more...I am ready for some football! The guys and I have been talking about it for a month. Logan is in full practice mode. ESPN talks about it everyday. Even Shelli said she can't wait for football...she loves the sedative effect of Sunday afternoon games!

So lets get back to school and the many other things that we all know we need. Be consistent in attendance at The Crossing, bring order to your life, and let's see some big things happen this fall at church!

Oh yea... and lets watch some football!

Who's In Your Circle?

2007-07-23T15:47:00.000-07:00

The Alltel Phone Company asks an important question...who's in your circle? Of course there are referring to their promotional campaign where you can call five people that you often call for free any time you want. Those five may include someone you call regularly because of work or some other necessity.

But when I think of a circle I think of the people who have your back. They will stand with you when others let you down. They will pray for you and wonder how you are if they have not heard from you in a few days. They love you unconditionally and are committed to your relationship.

You probably have someone like that in your life. But how many people like that do you have in your life? In a conference I attended a few years ago a speaker asked this question, "If you suddenly had to leave the country and only had a few minutes, how many people would you have to call?" He went on to say, if you have 3 or fewer calls to make you are probably not healthy. The people around us, who are committed to us, and in our circle determine much of how we handle life. They determine how healthy we are and the more people we have at that level the healthier we are.

That is one thing I love about The Crossing...we are committed to helping you build your circle. Through our small groups which we will launch again this fall and through other ministries of The Crossing you can build relationships to strengthen your life. A trite statement says, it’s not what you know it’s who you know. When it comes to really having life that statement is even truer. So...who's in your circle? Sign up for small groups this fall and I believe your circle will grow.

Summer Slumps and Mountain Dreams

2007-07-10T11:55:00.000-07:00

So much for posting more often. Man, I am sorry for not getting back on here more often. I was away for a while in the mountains with no computer for a week with my sons (Shelli did not have enough vacation and am just now getting back to you. In addition I have had a lot going and really too much to think about to have anything to say.

It has been an eventful Summer without much rest (thankfully I had some relaxation in the mountains with the guys.) When we made the change with Adam it did create a lot of stress and work for me. I do not do that kind of thing easily or casually. But I still know I did the right thing and that helps me not worry about it too much...God will help everyone involved when you do the right thing. I think it will eventually be the best thing for Adam and Gretchen too. Continue to pray for them and us.

And usually churches experience what is known as a summer slump as attendance, morale, and giving drops with vacations and absences. Now don't get me wrong...we aren't breaking any records but we have had a very good summer. Thank you for your faithfulness in giving and attending. And the presence of God has been so powerful in the worship and the messages the last several weeks. We have experienced some spiritual peaks this summer that make me dream of even greater mountaintops this fall.

Speaking of mountains...I love the mountains! I love log cabins, mountain streams, lush valleys, bears, rhododendrons, fresh air, Dollywood (that was weird), hikes, hiking gear, go karts, Cades Cove, historic buildings, walking around Gatlinburg, etc. The Pigeon Forge area is awesome. While we were at Cades Cove (historic mountain community with trails and wild animals) we saw a mother bear and two cubs from about 20 feet away. The cubs were as playful and cute (can you say that in a guy's blog?) as any animal could be. When we saw the bears we were talking about how cool it would be to have a cabin in the mountains. I now have a dream of having a cabin up there some time. I even know what I will call it: Three Bears Lodge in honor of the three bears we saw (and I guess of the three bears who were doing the dreaming too!)

There is nothing wrong with having a dream...in fact God often inspires them. He does so I believe because a dream for the future gives you power in the present. It gets you up in the morning and focuses your energy and creativity giving you passion. You might say that Christ dreamed a dream for us...who, for the joy set before him, endured the cross.

I think it would be cool to ask God to give you a dream. Not necessarily for something personal like a cabin but for God and his work. God, give me a dream for my ministry, or for my neighborhood, or for my co-workers, or for your family? Ask God to inspire you to dream a dream for him and for that dream to grip you and motivate you to act. What could he do in your world if you took the lid off and trusted him for something big and dream-like? Maybe we are living way below where we could be simply because we are not dreaming for what only God can do? And what are we left with? Only what we can do.

Let's dream some mountain sized dreams!

Logan's Lowdown

2007-06-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

This week my son Logan wrote an article on his MySpace page that certainly challenged me. At times you will recognize that he is a 13 year old kid, fresh from a tremendous church camp experience. At other times I think you will feel that God is speaking to all of us through him. I felt I should share it with you.

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Yesterday I got back from Camp Adrian. It really was amazing. We listened to preachers, sang, and goofed off for a whole week. The very last night at the service we had communion. After communion, one or two kids came to the altar to pray (and cry.) Then two more came...then three...then four...until there were so many kids on the floor in front of the stage that you couldn’t see the altar. I was ok for a while until I started thinking...

"This is amazing. But imagine how many people aren’t here and aren’t having this one of a kind experience? Wait...why aren’t they here? Because...dumb people like me and you are just too lazy to save people's lives! It’s not fair."

Then I slowly walked to the altar. I knelt and began to pray...

"God...give me strength. Give me strength to spread your love to lost people. Give me the strength to not care if I look dumb or ‘over-passionate’ (if there is such a thing)."

Then came the tears.

"God help me not to judge people. I now understand that it isn’t my job to judge, it’s yours. Help me not to care if my friends make fun of me for trying to help people."

I then went to different groups and prayed for the individuals crying for about 20-25 minutes. Then I went off to myself again, and prayed for my brother and dad.

You see....some people don’t do things because they under-estimate themselves. Some are afraid of failure. But most...are simply lazy. And to tell you the truth...it ticks me off.

People die and go to hell, why? Cuz, we're too lazy to even try to help. I don’t know about you, but I intend to change the entire perspective of our so called Christianity. I’ve come to realize that our current “love for Christ” is fake. Please help...the world needs it.

-Logan

Man Up, Church

2007-06-07T07:11:00.000-07:00

The future of any organization, community, country, or even church is frequently determined by what the men do. As the men go so goes the _____?_____ fill in the blank. Thankfully, women have often stood up when the men would not; especially in the church. Unfortunately, churches have seemed to either cater to women or just to not cater to men. For whatever reason many men have thought the church was more a place for a woman than for a man. While this may be another convenient male excuse there is some evidence for this. Just look at how most churches are decorated and compare that to every other thing out there attempting to attract an audience. Most churches (especially traditional ones) are either decorated by women or by the people that decorate funeral homes. But all restaurants and most everything else are decorated to get men to walk in the door. Name a restaurant that does not have a male theme, colors, items that attracts men. Look at commercials, billboards, ads...most are geared to men. It is as if the business world has figured out what the church has either refused to see or just can't see--get the men and you get everyone else.

I am convinced we have to appeal to and connect with men if we are going to reach everyone including men. Women will tolerate things geared to men much easier than men will for women. In fact I believe most women are hoping we will fix the men in their lives while guys are often hoping we won't mess their ladies up! The point is that a woman has a vested interest in anything that will help her husband and she will endure a lot to make it happen.

The message series that I am in right now is challenging the guys to Man Up and be all that God wants them to be. But I think churches needs to man up too. Name the women that Jesus pursued for spiritual growth? Now obviously there were women Jesus helped but they seemed to be come to Jesus while he was challenging the men. But Jesus began his ministry by pursuing 12 men to work with him. They were a cross section of blue collar and white collar, young and old, introverts and extroverts...but all men. Jesus pursued them, connected to them through their work, and called to them a great mission. And they responded with almost reckless devotion.

And the results are simply off the charts. Whatever The Crossing will be it has to connect with men and minister to them. We have to Man Up!

Posting challenges

2007-06-07T07:06:00.000-07:00

For those of you that read my blog regularly I apologize for not having posted in a while. I am going to be more disciplined in the future. I am just learning the best ways to blog and have a little more work to do to get really good at it. Thanks for your patience.

Well, It's Finally Over!

2007-05-31T08:07:00.001-07:00

The marathon graduation party for Landon has finally concluded. Twenty family members came to stay with us from Ohio, Texas, and Florida. On Friday night Landon had three friends over too, making the grand total 27 in our house! How could we do this? Well, we love being together and we have a lot of patience. Meals have to be coordinated, sleeping arrangements have to be figured out, and children's events have to be worked out. It goes better than it should.

The best part though was what we experienced with Landon. The entrance of the grads at Landon's school tore me up for a few minutes--I didn't even catch a word of the opening speeches. But Sunday morning was an experience that I wish everyone could have. The service had some incredible music by Matt Hancock. "You Raise Me Up" with the slides of all the grads was tough to hear. But at the end of my message about finding your life work from Eph. 3 I told the grads that while they were rooted in their parents' love only they could find their wings in life. As family and friends gathered with each grad at the front Matt sang the song, "Find Your Wings." Landon is not especially emotional but he wept as we prayed over him causing all of us to cry even more. He goes to Georgia St. in the fall to study Music Business, sensing that he has been called to be a voice for Christ in the music industry.

I believe he has the gifts for this but in the end as with all of us...God is the provider of your all you need to accomplish your calling. I am excited about Landon's future and I could not have anything greater from you than your prayers for my sons. A big thanks to all of you for your kindness to me and interest in Landon. Thanks for being such good friends.

The Graduate

2007-05-22T04:38:00.000-07:00

I remember graduation from LHS like it was yesterday. 507 gowns of the Lancaster High School class of '83 decorated the aluminum bleachers of the football field like blue and gold bunting. For me it seemed so unreal. For many years I had watched someone else move the tassle to the other side of their cap. Now it was me doing it and I could not believe it.

I am having a similar experience now. For many years now as a pastor I have attended the parties, endured the ceremonies, seen the graduates smiling ear to ear and the moms (and a few dads) weep. It was all something I observed but now I am experiencing. Like my graduation, the fact of my son Landon's graduation has not seemed real to me. But this Friday night the boy that I just took to kindergarten last week is going to be a high school graduate. I can't believe it.

Some people hate change--some people love it. Regardless of how you feel about change one thing is for sure: it is inevitable. There is no stopping what is happening in Landon's life. There is no rolling back the clock and experiencing his first step, T-Ball, or his 13th birthday again. There is only now. Today is all you have.

And that prompts me to tell you something as a person experiencing something for the first time. You will want to roll back time. You will wish you could more fully savor those moments from the past that you burned so easily. You will wish you could do it better this time benefitted by your complete understanding of its importance. But again, there is only today. What you have is based on what you did yesterday. But what you will have is based on what you will do today. Today is the only thing that matters for it is the only thing you can control.

Make the most of it, because one day the fact that yesterday is gone, that tomorrow may never come, and that today is all you have will literally 'hit home'. One day the kindergartener will be the graduate. I am so glad I have spent today well! Are you?

By the way don't miss Graduation Sunday this Sunday at 10:45. Graduates invite all your family and friends to come!

WOW!

2007-05-15T11:19:00.000-07:00

If you missed the service Sunday you missed a great one. The band was smoking and the song choices were super. Mother's Day gave us a good setting for my message, Mother God, which taught us about the loving, tender, mother-like qualities of God. But the final song was beyond awesome. Melissa Hamilton sang the Martina McBride song "I Do It Anyway." This is a song with an unbelievable range and you don't attempt it if you can't nail it. Let's just say that Simon Cowell would have given her a kiss afterwards. The band and background vocalists were powerful in support of Melissa's singing. It was amazing.

Don't miss this Sunday...who knows what is going to happen!

You've Still Got To Be Kidding Me

2007-05-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

That post caused a strong reaction. Here is an important question and we will leave it at this: What do you do with Matthew 19:13-15? "One day children were brought to Jesus in the hope that he would lay hands on them and pray over them. The disciples shooed them off. But Jesus intervened: "Let the children alone, don't prevent them from coming to me. God's kingdom is made up of people like these." After laying hands on them, he left."

Dont prevent them from coming to me could not be more plain. I have teenagers so I understand the challenges you face. Honestly though having to resort to taking away youth group is not very creative. It is also possible that we choose punishments that are easy on us without considering whether they are really effective. With all the things kids are interested in these days isn't there one other punishment we can come up with?

Here is a list of other options:
1. No phone
2. No internet
3. No snacks
4. No TV
5. No going anywhere
6. Additional chores
7. Essays
8. Book reports on books you choose
9. Washing the family car everyday
10. No Music
11. Pushups/ situps/ exercise
12. Dirty projects (cleaning gutters, ovens, trash cans, etc.)
13. Early bed time
14. Early wake up time for exercise or projects
15. Community service at someone else's house

Any one or a combination of these other punishments will have a powerful effect on them without making them miss something that connects them to God and teaches them to become better children. It may take thought and a little work (which is why we don't do it) but there has to be a better way than keeping them away from youth ministry. A person who is willing can probably find a better way. Feel free to comment on some other options. If punishment from youth group is your first thought you probably aren't thinking enough.

10:10 Connection

2007-05-10T07:10:00.000-07:00

“A hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees.” -Daniel 10:10

Make the 10:10 connection! Join the leaders and staff for prayer in the theatre every Sunday morning at 10:10 AM as we pray for The Crossing. If you are a leader in The Crossing I expect you to be there.

You've Got To Be Kidding Me!

2007-05-09T10:42:00.000-07:00

I recently had a conversation with our Student Pastor Matt and he told me some amazing things. He was telling me that some parents punish their kids when they do something wrong by grounding them from all activities including youth group activities at The Crossing. Youth group activities...you've got to be kidding me? That is like saying, "Son, you are sick again and because you are sick again I am going to ground you from seeing the doctor." So staying home in their rooms away from an event with their Heavenly father is going to help them obey their earthly fathers, how? And how does their absence help their youth group to get stronger? These things drive me nuts. We just don't think sometimes as parents.

I know some parents don't make their kids come to youth group if they are tired or have some other excuse. There may be times we should do that but rarely. Maybe if they weren't doing all those other events that don't touch their souls they would have more energy for one that does? I know some others think, "Well I don't want to shove religion down their throat." I wouldn't either but The Crossing is hardly religion. Religion is the boring, judgemental, adult focused church some of us grew up with.

But let's use that reasoning in other areas of a teenager's life. "I don't make them do homework because I don't want to shove education down their throat." Or how about..."I don't make them shower because I don't want to shove personal hygiene down their throat." Or even..."I don't make them go to practice because I don't want to shove commitment down their throat." We would never say these things. So why does everything else come before God and our children's spiritual growth?

I think it is because we ourselves are not that committed to it. Is it because God is not the living center of our lives, so why should he be for our kids? Do we think sports, education, or discipline is more important than God? What we do not realize is that if those things keep taking precedence over giving God and Pastor Matt the opportunity to shape and mold our kids we are setting ourselves up to have athletic, educated, disciplined, nominal Christians if not outright non-Christians. Well at least you got to see them play some sports and get good grades.

I challenge you to make some changes for your kid's future and yours. Get them involved in the student program. Get them to the apartment outreach this Saturday, 10-2. Be at the office at 9:30 AM Saturday or call Matt by Friday for a ride, 678-372-3130. The teens will go to an apartment complex in a repressed area and minister to kids in that complex. That will touch them.

Parents take the lead; they need you to, and so do you! You won't regret it but you will almost certainly regret not doing it.

Mother's Day???

2007-05-09T07:53:00.000-07:00

It is a good idea to have a day set aside to honor mothers. But is it a good idea to have a day set aside to bash mothers? Because in many churches the preacher's message beats them up on Mother's Day. They get it for doing dishes instead of devotions (Mary and Martha) or for being less than a perfect mother, wife, and woman (The Virtuous Woman of Proverbs 31). In addition all those ladies who could not or did not have children feel like failures on Mother's Day.

So this Sunday we are doing something different at The Crossing--we are not going to pick on the ladies. And don't worry guys...we are not going to sap you to death with lacey sermons or rose scented bulletins. In fact I believe what the Lord has given me to share with you is going to blow everyone away. And the final song definitely will. About the message: I have heard people address God as "Father God"--nothing wrong with that Jesus told us to in the Lord's Prayer. But I believe I am supposed to tell you about how God is our Mother...Mother God. Man that is awkward. Don't worry I am not going new age liberal on you...pray for me that God will help me pull it off. It might actually be funny. So join us for Mother's Day, Crossing style!

Les Miserables and My Son

2007-05-08T12:06:00.000-07:00

I am writing something right now that is completely selfish...in a good way. My son Landon has his final performance tonight in the lead role of Javert in the musical version of Victor Hugo's classic, Les Miserables. I believe what I am about to say is neither biased or opinionated: Les Mis is the best musical of all time.

Some musicals are funnier, some are more serious, some are more modern, some are more classical--many muscial's can top it in one category but add it all up and Les Mis is just better. The story is so full of grace and redemption that any Christ-follower ought to fall in love with it immediately. The music is so challenging and powerful that any lover of music has to admire it. But there is something intangible about the musical...something almost anointed that just gives me chills when I hear a certain line or tune from it.

My hat's off to the students and teachers at Buford who tackled Les Mis. But I am especially proud of my son, Landon. He kept auditioning for leads throughout his high school career only to see them go to others, sometimes even to underclassmen. He dutifully filled a role in the background of each of those performances. But finally, in the last musical of his senior year, he got his opportunity and he made the most of it by getting a lead role as 'Javert.' People have been extremely complimentary to me about his performances thus far. I am proud of how he has handled it all and I have loved his interpretation.

As 'Javert' he has the pressure of singing difficult music using a background track where mistakes are obvious and unfixable. In addition he must focus on acting while he focuses on singing. The sound is not always perfect and it would be easy to miss notes or cues. Except for a few minor moments of humanity he has been outstanding. He has brought me to tears several times.

And as I think about him graduating from high school I am very sad that he will not be around in a few months. Please forgive me while, as a real man, I cry a little bit. I just thank God for Landon and in moments like these I have to remember that many years ago I gave him to God. He is embarking on that part of his journey where he is becoming more God's boy than mine. And while that is a very good trade for him it still saddens me to see him entering this phase in his life. But I am pleased to let him go because I believe he is following God, which is exactly what I raised him to do. Landon has not lived up to my expectations...he has lived way above them.

I just wanted to let him know by telling all of you how proud I am of him and how grateful I am to God for giving me a son like Landon...and Logan!

The Spir-It Factor

2007-05-02T09:04:00.000-07:00

Cheesy, I know but as true as it gets. Any prevailing church that makes a difference has God's Spirit in all they do. Period. They may not have a building, gear, money, an organization, or even a plan. But what they have trumps everything else. And ministries with all the other stuff cannot begin to do what the church's version of the "It Factor," the Spir-it factor, can do.

The It Factor is usually something unseen that seems to be producing the company's/ organization's/ person's success. In the church's case the It- Factor is unseen but not unknown. God's Spirit is the only thing that produces life and success in the Kingdom. There is no other way.

This past Sunday, The Crossing had the Spir-It Factor. The Spirit of God was there probably as never before. Mark down April 29, 2007 as an important date in our history. Something changed that day--in me if in no one else.

But I sensed it was not just me. The prayers of the worship leaders and technical team before the service were awesome. The presence of God was evident from the beginning of the service until the end. There was fruitifulness in the way people responded to God at the end. And one of our teens came to me and said he had come to know Christ in the service! That is the way it is supposed to be.

I don't think it had anything to do with bulletins, equipment, or the subject matter of the message. It had nothing to do with metaphors we have used like cars, football, or poker. It was not about a building, a stage, or seats. It was simply and powerfully, the presence of God.

I never want to go back. I never want any other kind of service. I want God's presence and changed lives. Why come every week if God won't be there and no lives are being changed? I have told the staff and I am telling everyone else--nothing less than God's presence and changed lives is acceptable anymore.

I told our Worship Pastor Adam, that I don't care if he has band practice or any equipment is set up; we have to pray for God to come and people to be changed.
I told our Children's Director Angie, that I don't care if there are cookies or crayons in childen's church; we have to pray for God to come and kids to be changed.
I told our Student Pastor Matt, that I don't care if we have a cool logo or Destination Unknown; we have to pray for God to come and teens to be changed.
And I am telling our board, that I don't care if we have an agenda or if we solve any financial issues; we need to pray for God to come and people to be changed.

If God isn't coming to our services in an obvious way, then lives won't be changed. And if he isn't coming and lives aren't being changed then we fit the description of Jesus's example of the salt that has lost its saltiness. We are useless without God's Spirit at The Crossing.

I am calling The Crossing to prayer! We have not been called to be useless but we will be if we rely on anything else but God. I refuse to be useless when God has called me to be so much more...how about you? I am inviting you to join me in prayer every Sunday from 10:10-10:30 AM. I need people who can pray to be there so don't come if you don't mean business. That's right, a pastor just said don't come to a prayer meeting...unless your motives are right and you are ready to pray.

We will not be praying for any special personal needs unless they relate to the service. We will pray for God to come and be worshipped and for people to come and be transformed. But as important as the content of our prayers is the attitude of our hearts. We must have a passion and pray with a sense of desperation. Nothing can happen without God...therefore we are desperate. We must pray like a thirsty man in the desert looks for water.

And because we are praying we can expect some good things...even some miracles. I can't wait. I will see you Sunday.

By the way...you have my permission to begin praying right now!

Vision Luncheon

2007-04-23T12:32:00.000-07:00

If someone...almost anyone said, "Hey R.D., I want to share my vision with you over lunch and I will buy, and I'll show you a funny video that also has some good content...can you come?" I would be there. I love hearing about vision, especially if it has food with it. So...I want to say something to you: "I want to share my vision with you over lunch this Sunday and I will buy, and I'll show you a funny video that has some good content...can you come?"

Don't miss the Vision Luncheon this Sunday after church. The new video will be great, the food exceptional, and I am going to share the vision of The Crossing with you. Even if you think you know it please don't miss this Sunday. For The Crossing to move forward everyone needs to know and commit to the vision. I hope to see you. Check the news article at the bottom of the fron page of our website, www.atthecrossing.org for more info.

Man...Alive

2007-04-23T12:20:00.000-07:00

Guys my congratulations to you who were at The Crossing yesterday. I know your marriages are going to grow as you give yourself up. There is a cool verse from John 12:24-25..

Unless a grain of wheat is buried in the ground, dead to the world, it is never any more than a grain of wheat. But if it is buried, it sprouts and reproduces itself many times over. In the same way, anyone who holds on to life just as it is destroys that life. But if you let it go, reckless in your love, you'll have it forever, real and eternal.

Giving yourself up gives you life. It is a Biblical law; it is just the way it is. You can't change gravity...its a law of nature. You can't change this law about sacrifice. Give yourself up and you will have more. If you missed it listen on-line at www.atthecrossing.org and then click "Listen to Messages" right on the front page under Quicklinks.

Wives this Sunday is about you. This past week we had a song just for guys ("Live Like You Are Dying") that Matt and the band rocked. This week ladies there is one for you that will be awesome. Don't miss the Sunday's service.

Crossing Guards

2007-04-18T08:26:00.000-07:00

We have big props to give out to some key team members of The Crossing. Glenn O'Loughlin (and his family) for working at the coffee table after being up until 2:30 AM the night before at his daughter Tiffany's wedding reception. Everyone who works every week in set-up and children's ministry. Are you serving somewhere? We need you there. Paul Wallace always helping with serving the attenders as an usher. Chad Aukland and his team for taking on the Vision Dinner next week. Kent Sprague for picking up the sign on the road every week. I am sure there are others. If you see someone doing something significant to help us let me know. Thanks everyone.

All In...this is not your father's church!

2007-04-18T07:52:00.000-07:00

There was a day when a pastor using poker for an illustration would have sparked an emergency church board meeting to reconsider his employment. Thankfully the board at The Crossing is letting me slide. Poker's new found popularity makes it an irresistible illustration for someone in my line of work...especially for relationships. If there is any area where risking it all is worth it, that's it.

I think many of us, more often than we would admit, have put our family at risk rather than risk everything else for them. I think of the risks associated with being alone on business trips or flirting with someone you regularly see. I think of the risks of going all in for your work and letting your kids grow up without your presence. I think of the risks of pleasure binges with alcohol, drugs, or porn and what that says to your family. I think of the risks of not acting on some problem your child has at an early age thinking they will grow out of it.

Whatever the reason: laziness, depression, greed, lust...or somehow just thinking you deserve it, we have taken some risks. Thankfully God knows all about taking a risk for someone because he did it for us. I grew up singing a song from southern Gospel music called Who Am I?

Who am I, that a king would bleed and die for?
Who am I that he would say, 'not my will thine for?'
The answer I am never know, why he ever loved me so,
That to an old rugged cross he would go. Who am I?

I spent some time this morning with the Lord and truly wept as I considered what he did for me. I wept also as I thought about the risks that have been considered in my mind. Not only risks to my family but risks to my faith. In fact I don't know how you can separate one from the other. I know the Bible doesn't.

One of the ways we can worship God is by going all in for our family and closest relationships. It is a great investment and it pleases the Lord. Don't miss this Sunday's service as continue down this road. I have something to give each of the guys this week, so be there men!