Worship Well

The Essence of Sin - Stott

2011-12-16T15:13:00.002-05:00

For the essence of sin is man substituting himself for God, while the essence of salvation is God substituting himself for man. Man asserts himself against God and puts himself where only God deserves to be; God sacrifices himself for man and puts himself where only man deserves to be. Man claims prerogatives that belong to God alone; God accepts penalties that belong to man alone. John Stott - The Cross of Christ

Pax or Shalom?

2010-12-01T07:39:00.001-05:00

As we meet with couples and others, most of them are initially looking for détente. You remember the Cold War? "We won't fire our missiles at you, you don't fire yours at us!" I have to admit sometimes that is what I am looking for too. It seems good enough.

How do you define peace?

The word, as commonly used in English, comes from the Latin "pax." Pax to the Romans meant a cessation of hostilities between the conqueror and the vanquished. Think of Pax Romana from your High School history class. The Romans veni, vidi, vicied and so they dictated the terms of peace. Until the Vandals came south. You see pax is always temporary because it changes with who is in the position of strength.

After World War I we dictated the terms of the peace with Germany. It did not prevent World War II.

On the other hand, the ancient Hebrew concept of peace, rooted in the word "shalom," meant wholeness, completeness, soundness, health, safety and prosperity, carrying with it the implication of permanence.

Rabbi Robert I. Kahn compares "Roman" peace/pax and "Hebrew" shalom:

One person can dictate a peace; shalom is a mutual agreement.

Peace is a temporary pact; shalom is a permanent covenant.

Peace can be negative, the absence of commotion. Shalom is positive, the presence of serenity and wholeness

Peace can be partial; shalom is whole and complete.

What kind of peace are you looking for this season? What kind of peace are they looking for? Pax or Shalom? Don’t settle for less. Not w/in-laws or out-laws. Not w/neighbors. Shalom or bust.

So where do we see shalom, how do we get it?

Isaiah 9

5 Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.
6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.

Dramatic change here. Bloody garments and boots will be burned. Of all things the answer is a child. A son. The government will be on his shoulders, counselor, everlasting, mighty. Prince of peace (shalom) Jesus is shalom. For them and us. Everything else is détente at best. Everything.

Why is His peace different? Remember the bloody garment and the warrior boot? Listen to Isaiah 53, maybe with new hearing:

"Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed."

There can be no shalom without war. There can be pax without war. But shalom, as I said, comes as a mutual agreement; a permanent covenant. The punishment that brought peace was laid on him. The full war, all guns blazing, all bombs dropped, all IEDs detonating, all nuclear missiles and spiritual weapons of mass destruction pummeling him. The wrath of God on the Son.

Shalom came on that day. That war brought us peace. It was a mutual agreement. He went as a prisoner. Surrendered, Stripped. He was the scapegoat. Yet innocent. That brought peace.

That is what we have been freely given. Shalom: wholeness, completeness, soundness, health, safety and prosperity, the tranquil state of our soul assured of salvation through Christ. That enables us to fear nothing from God and to be content with our earthly lot, whatever it is.

That is what they need.

This season: Pax or shalom?

Fenelon for you

2010-11-13T14:59:00.000-05:00

“Tell God all that is in your heart, as one unloads one's heart, it's pleasures, and it's pains, to a dear friend. Tell him your troubles, that he may comfort you; tell him your joys, that he may sober them; tell him your longings, that he may purify them; talk to him of your temptations, that he may shield you from them; show him the wounds of your heart, that he may heal them; lay bare your indifference to good, your depraved tastes for evil, your instability. Tell him how self-love makes you unjust to others, how vanity tempts you to be insincere, how pride disguises you to yourself and others. If you thus pour out your weaknesses, needs, troubles, there will be no lack of what to say. You will never exhaust the subject. People who have no secrets from each other never want for subject of conversation. They do not weigh their words, for there is nothing to be held back, neither do they seek for something to say. They talk out of the abundance of their heart, without consideration they say just what they think. Blessed are they who attain to such familiar, unreserved intercourse with God.”

He is God

2010-11-12T15:41:00.000-05:00

Every once in a while the thought comes back to my mind. It recently happened when I was reading Hebrews.

The whole book of Hebrews is worth your time and attention. The great theologian John Owen wrote a seven volume commentary on it because he found so much in it that pointed to the supremacy in Christ. It starts like this:

“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.” (Hebrews 1:1-3)

You could meditate on those verses for weeks.

The author is saying that Jesus is God. That is the thought that keeps coming back to my mind and heart. He is not just another Moses or some mysterious priest like Melchizidek. He is not a super angel. He is not the best prophet who ever lived. He is God. He is heir of all things and the universe was made through Him. He sustains all things. He is robed in splendor. Wow. I am glad that thought comes to my mind every once in a while. It is good news. Because He is God, He is all powerful and His will is going to be done.

The thought that follows that thought is this: He disrobed. He set aside Himself to become sin for us. He went to a cross almost naked and endured the wrath of God the Father for us. He did it for His glory and so that we could have a robe. The robe of Christ’s righteousness. Amazing. Simple. Costly. Complex. He is God and He came for us. As we enter the Advent season can we encourage you to reflect on that? Maybe some of you wonder if it is true. Can we encourage you to explore during this season?

We believe he came for you. Even better, He is coming back for you. The king will return and He will not be naked. He will be robed in majesty, surrounded by glory and full of love for His people. Join us this season as we celebrate the once and future king.

Could be Dangerous

2010-11-08T12:55:00.000-05:00

I had noted this rough patch on my nose for a week or two. I could feel it was different and, when I wrinkled my nose, I felt a general tightness on the top of it. Kind of like sunburn, but it did not go away. I also had a spot on my forehead that had been growing a bit darker and seemed to itch a bit more than it had. So off to the dermatologist I went. Here was my thinking: Could be nothing or it could be something. Better to have a professional tell me because I do not have the education to make the determination.

The one on the nose was something. The dermatologist compared it to a picture on her wall. She dealt with it right then. There was a bit of a sting as she froze it, leaving a red mark, but I am told a scab will form and it will fall off in a week or so. We caught it before it went to the second picture on the wall in her office. You don’t want to know what the fourth and final picture looked like, yuck! While I was there, she said, “Let me take a look around,” and she did. Here a spot and there a spot. Some to be concerned with and others no problem. I will be going back again for a bit more work.

As I left the office I was reminded that my sin is like that. All of it is a blemish no doubt. Some of it is growing into something darker and more sinister. It could be dangerous. I will never rid my soul fully of all the inclinations I have to besmirch the work of Christ, but I would be wiser if I noted, by feeling, the things that are giving my soul a tightness. How? I do not have all the education I need to tell the difference, so I am wiser if I go to those around me who can shine the spotlight on me and say, “Yes, that one needs to be dealt with; it might sting for awhile, but it needs to be dealt with!”

I don’t know who that would be for you. It may be a discipleship leader or an accountability partner. It could be a pastor or a friend. Don’t get me wrong. All sin is bad. Some is just worse and can move your life into looking like picture four. Believe me, you don’t want that. So, reach out and let yourself be examined by the One who loves you and can see what you need. It may sting a bit and it might leave a red mark but the balm of Gilead will soothe your heart and bring comfort to your soul.

Worship Well.

I want to be God!!!

2010-10-11T18:43:00.000-04:00

“The best way to conceive of the fundamental project of human reality is to say that man is the being whose project is to be God" - Jean Paul Sartre

I want to be God. If you knew me, you might say, “Well there are moments when you act like it!” This is true. But more than you know or can see, I deeply want to be God. You see, I have become a bit like Him. I have some of what He has, and I want more. I want more power, more knowledge, and more presence. I want what He has, and I am willing to do a lot of devious things to get it. I want to become God. Men want to become God. I know that is not the nice Christian thing to say or to think, but I think it is true. So what do I do with that? Do I join an accountability group and ask the guys to ask me question #6 each week; “Did you want to be God this week?” The answer is yes. The answer was yes last week, and it will be yes next week. I want to be God. What do I do with that? I am stuck, but I must press on.

God became man. I want to become God, and God became man. God said in effect, “You want to be God? I’ll become man. I’ll become sin. I will not consider equality with God the Father a thing to be grasped.” God became man. So what do I do with that?

Man wants to be God. God became man. Here is the kicker: Christ enables men to become like Him. Are we back where we started? No, we are on a whole new road. Sartre was right; our project is to be God. It started in the garden. We became like God then, in the sense that we knew good and evil. But, He did not let us taste of the tree of life. Since that day, every man and woman has wanted to get to that tree to gain eternal life. Every human who ever lived wanted to be God, through earthly power, a lasting legacy or even by discovering the fountain of youth.

But, something happened that day. Death entered the world. He said we would die, and we did. We would all die physically and spiritually. Those who are not in Christ are dead in their sin and trespasses. What about those who are in Christ? We who are in Christ carry death with us. Part of us, our sin nature, is separated from God, and what is separated from God is dead. That part of us, wants to be God. That is the part of us that wants to overthrow the king. Until we breathe our last breath, it will keep trying to usurp power, all to no avail and much pain. But, Christ has given us a new nature - Christ in us, the hope of glory. Our new nature wants to become like God too, but not in the same way. It wants to become like Christ. By the power of the Spirit, our new nature wants to be like Him.

Now that could be a good question to be asked each week; “Are you beholding Him and are you becoming like Him?” He wants that. He wants more of Him. He wants to make us into little Christs. That is the fundamental project of the blessed triune God, to make much of Himself.

One day we will see him face to face. We will be glorified. I can’t describe what that means or what it is. Somehow we will be able to stand in the presence of inestimable beauty and rejoice. We will be like Him. In the mean time, we can look to Him, ask Him to change us and pray that He shrinks that part within us that wants to usurp the crown.

Football? Forget Alabama!

2010-10-11T18:41:00.000-04:00

We are in the middle of it all now aren’t we? It is college football season. Your team may be at the top or bottom of the rankings. Maybe they have a shot at going undefeated or perhaps you hope they win one game. Wherever they are, my guess is you still watch a game, go to a game or at least read about it in the paper each week. We love our football in Georgia.

I can understand why people go to watch a winning team. It makes sense that a stadium will fill up to watch a truly great football team. What I would like to discuss is why people go to watch a loser team. Why do people go to watch, or even follow, a team that has a 2-5 record? Why not change teams? Why not shift allegiances? That way you can always be on the winning team and you can always celebrate! One year pick Alabama, the next Georgia and maybe, if they are outstanding, take a year and cheer for Georgia Tech. Even better, you could change allegiance every game, perhaps waiting until the 4th quarter to decide who to root for.

Now I know you Georgia fans think I just committed heresy. Why? Because there is something inside of us that is loyal. I have friends who liked TCU when they went 1-11. They are loyal to their school. Why? It is because part of them has been knit into the fabric of what they have come from. Their DNA was changed by what they experienced and to be disloyal would be to disavow themselves.

Christianity may be on the downswing in America. Polls indicate that there are fewer people going to church than there were twenty years ago. Eventually Muslims could be the majority religion. Even now, some would say “No Religion” is the majority in the country. So what are we to do? Is our team going 1 and 9?

Perhaps our religion will end up on the losing side of a lot of social issues and we will have some of our religious freedoms restricted. If so, what will you do?

The believer in Christ is called to persevere and bless; to know that he may live a persecuted life. It is part of our DNA because Jesus was persecuted. So we should surmise that we may be in the minority. That is a tough reality pill to swallow but it is the truth of the gospel. People may look at us as losers.

So what are we to do? Well, what we can’t do is change sides. You see we believe that once the gospel of Jesus Christ has gripped your heart, it is irreversible. His grace can not be resisted and He keeps those He loves forever. Those who are in Christ paradoxically have joy in that.

So win or lose in the short run, we are His and He is ours. We cheer for Him. We celebrate Him, even if things look dark. We rest in His finished work and we look for Him to come again to consummate all things. It may be in overtime, but He will come and His victory will be celebrated. Until the final whistle blows, we bless the world, for His name sake.

Worship Well

I Love the Way You Lie

2010-08-26T13:35:00.000-04:00

It is the latest smash hit music video (no pun intended). “I Love the Way You Lie” by Eminem and Rihanna features Megan Fox and Dominic Monaghan as a couple who have a tempestuous relationship to say the least. Eminem raps about his inner struggle to control his rage and abusive tendencies. Rihanna sings the chorus:

“Just gonna stand there and watch me burn. But that's alright, because I like the way it hurts. Just gonna stand there and hear me cry. But that's alright because I love the way you lie. I love the way you lie...”

The scenes with Monaghan and Fox are alternating ones of sex and violence. It’s definitely not a family friendly video. So why do we bring it to your attention? Aside from the fact that we want you to be culturally aware (the video has more than 30 million views on You Tube), we want to state:

Violence against a woman is never right. Never. Even if she says she likes the way it hurts. She doesn’t.
Men who have anger issues need to get help. They can rationalize with themselves all they want, but the cycle will repeat itself.

Now that we have stated the obvious, can we share from the heart? People struggle. All people struggle with something. For some of us, our struggle manifests itself as rage against God. For others, it manifests itself as withdrawal from Him. Some of us do both; alternating between rage and withdrawal.

In some cases, we strangely learn to live and even love being in a bad place. It becomes like a home and because we can see no way out, we adapt to the new, sick reality.

We want to encourage you today to choose another alternative. Take your struggles to Him. He won’t hit you. He won’t stand there and watch you burn. He will begin to heal you by the power of His love. There is no other way to get real healing. If you need help to do that, we are here for you. He is the Good Shepherd and He is ready to minister to you. If you have a friend, point him or her to the One who can stop the madness. He will hear the cry. We love the way He heals.

Facebook and Jesus Christ Superstar

2010-08-14T10:12:00.000-04:00

Flashback. Almost 40 years ago, Andrew Lloyd Weber wrote the musical Jesus Christ Superstar. The title song is sung by Judas as he questions who Jesus is. Judas sings, “Every time I look at you I don't understand. Why you let the things you did get so out of hand. You'd have managed better if you'd had it planned. Now why'd you choose such a backward time and such a strange land? If you'd come today you could have reached the whole nation. Israel in 4 BC had no mass communication.....”

Now He has Facebook.

Phenomenon would be an understatement. Facebook may be here to stay. It has over 500 million subscribers and it is rapidly pushing to 1 billion. Imagine. 1/6th of the people on the planet using one social networking tool. If you do not count the impoverished in third world countries who have no access to a computer, it may account for more than half of the population on the planet. The world can communicate as one.

So what do you think? Does it make a difference that the Son of God came 2000 years ago? Could he have waited for Facebook? Would that have been a quicker way to spread the news? Apparently not.

Marshall McLuhan once said that the the medium is the message. McLuhan’s work is complicated to fully explain in a short piece but he was saying that content does not matter as much as the vehicle through which the content is delivered. I am not going to make an argument here about why Facebook itself is more culture shaping then a Facebook post by a 16 year old boy but I will say that the medium itself is what shapes society over time. Facebook is shaping society.

That is pretty esoteric. More thinking maybe needed by all of us. However, in the simplest of terms I can say that (1) Jesus’ birth fulfilled the prophecies so He came at the time appointed by God. (2) Jesus is the center of all things (3) He is more important and shapes the world more than content and (4) God has called His people to deliver His message.

Can Facebook be helpful to deliver the message? In large part; probably not. Facebook as a medium won’t help spread the love of Jesus. The love of Jesus is spread by the love of people who are in Christ. Those people may use Facebook to that end, as long as they remember that Facebook as a medium has a message and it is not the message of Christ.

Yes, you can post your thoughts and responses to me on Facebook.

Quotables

2010-07-09T10:49:00.002-04:00

"Indeed, when I am in really great trouble, as any one who knows me intimately will tell you, I refuse everything except food and drink." Oscar Wilde ‘The importance of Being Earnest’

We are all addicted to something; and when we are hurting we run to it. Each of us have a bottle hidden somewhere in the cupboard of our life that no one knows about except us, or so we think. Oscar Wilde has his, I have mine and you have yours. Now here is the thing: You don’t have to tell anybody. When you’re in trouble you can just run to food or drink or sex or anything else that gives you comfort and helps you feel in control and you do not have to tell a soul. I can say with relative certainty that you will feel better for a while. After all, you can’t control all things in life so you might as well control your intake of a controlled substance.

Now that I aired that out, does it smell like freedom? Here would be the motto: “Do what you please to dull pain and promote pleasure!”

So where do we go from here? How about the Internet? Maybe to Dairy Queen for a large dipped cone? Perhaps the bottle of Glenfiddich? Nope. Sadly, and really gladly, we have to deal with Wilde’s entire quote. Lets start with why we are in trouble and then we can talk about what it means to run to something. Maybe along the way we will stop and chat about who intimately knows us.

Trouble is our middle name. Some of it is self inflicted. Even Jesus said that in this life we would have trouble and He knew what trouble was all about. No one escapes without some problems; strife, pain or anguish and most of us get a lot more than we want. So it would be good for us to learn to expect it and to learn how to deal with it. I often find that trouble comes when I least expect it. In fact that may be lesson number one: expect trouble. For some reason, I let it blindside me and so I often have a delayed response to try and cope with it. I wish I would remember what my driving instructor said when I was 16: “Just remember that every one else on the road is an idiot. They will cut into your lane, brake too quickly and generally try to run over you so drive defensively!” Good lesson. Trouble will come our way. So, perhaps we can now write our thesis as follows, “We will have trouble most every day!” Simple enough and I hope you won’t disagree with it. If so, you can stop reading and enjoy the rest of your trouble free day.

Now if you are still with me, lets talk about running to stuff when trouble comes. I think Wilde overstates the ability of food and drink and understates the complexity of trouble. No doubt, food and drink are great comforters. That is why whiskey and chocolate companies do well in times of recession as well as in times of excess. Food and drink are easy to come by and socially acceptable. But, for the most part people do not know we are in trouble when we drink or eat to excess. Most of us use food and drink as a quick but temporary fix for dealing with our trouble but they really are grammar school comforters. They can only satiate the body in a selected, time limited way. They may temporarily numb the soul, but they cannot sooth it so we must turn to harder drugs to accomplish what we need.

In general terms we run to “not God” to get shelter. By “not God” I mean anything that is not Him. That sounds so simple and tragic but it is amazingly deceptive. We run to success, hoarding, sex, or physical escape in order to alleviate the pain of trouble. We run to what we please. But it turns out it does not please us; motto aside.

The one thing we do not want to do is face it head on. I know a few people who say they like conflict. Most of them a boxers. No one likes conflict. No one wants to go head on and deal with hard issues. All of us would rather take the easy way because the hard way is painful. So, we medicate and avoid. That is not a healthy thing. Over time we get spiritually fat and our soul's arteries harden. Our spiritual and emotional muscles atrophy and we begin to doubt the future possibility of walking again, let along running. Try as we might, avoidance does not work and running to anything other than the problem or a solution only serves to make matters worse. What to do?

Well I suggest taking a bite of a cupcake, having a glass of wine or doing whatever you think will do the trick and then ask your self truthfully, “Is it working?” You know the answer and so do I so we might as well get on with the hard but healthy work of self-examination, of reconciliation and even of repentance.

To do that we will need to engage with someone who knows us intimately. He will tell us. We may need a lot of ground to be uncovered but it is the wise thing to do. Pain now or pain later, but pain will come and from it health can happen if we look to the One who knows us best and cares for us most. The Holy Spirit will enable us to choose health and life and peace. He will help us choose "not other". Then we can be free and forgive. He is the one who knows us intimately and further, He is the one who has seen trouble and dealt with it on our behalf. He calls us to come to Him and He will give us what we need.

The Full Discussion with Steve Brown

2010-06-25T15:48:00.003-04:00

I have had some great feedback on the interview I had with Steve. Here is the link to his site if you want to listen or download it Steve Brown Etc.

Need more info? You can get the book by calling 678-405-2205 and get free shipping. Or if the Perimeter Bookstore link is now working you can click here: Bookstore

If you are in a far away place you can go to Paypal at Minority Rules to order.

Blessings!

What did Steve Brown say?

2010-06-21T10:30:00.006-04:00

I just had a radio interview with Steve Brown. I love that guy. He will be at Perimeter this weekend. I think this week, you will be able to hear the interview on Steve Brown Etc. BTW, you should listen to Steve all the time.

Now, knowing Steve and me, and how the conversation went, I am sure they will have to edit some of what we said before it airs, so keep checking this week.

We chatted about Minority Rules. Steve gave out this address to listeners, so if you are looking for the book click here: Minority Rules

You can also check out other great books like Randy Pope's The Answer and music by my good friend Laura Story at the Perimeter bookstore.

NOTE: The bookstore has had some server computer problems so, if the link does not work, you can call 678-405-2205 and Luann or one of her very capable staff will help you.

To recap our discussion. Christianity may be in decline in numbers but it can be on the increase in quality. Christians are a minority and the sooner we rest in that title, the sooner we can learn how to deal with it, because that is the way it has always been.

We are a minority and that is good. It enables us to step aside from power brokering and move towards living by four minority rules: Knowing we are free, celebrating Jesus, living in community and you have to buy the book to learn the fourth one.

Blessings and I would love feedback!

Vive La Difference!

2010-05-10T11:11:00.000-04:00

The French say it well, “Vive la difference!” Men and women are different, even though they are both created in the image of God. Because of the difference, I often find in working with couples that the husband or wife struggles to communicate in a language that their spouse can understand. Hundreds of books have been written on the topic. Men are from planet X and women are from planet Y. Pink and blue. Love and Respect. There must be something to it, would you agree?

I think we may go down the wrong track if we say that God deals with women differently than He does with men. Both are sinners in need of a savior. Both need to know love and forgiveness. There is not a bible for women and a separate bible for men. Jesus came for both, but He created them male and female and we do well to remember that He is wise in all things. There are a lot of good things about “la difference” but there are also a lot of challenging things. How we communicate is a primary one.

This week we thought we might help you learn by example. I met with a couple in which the man was rightly talking about commitment, duty, loyalty, and debriefing after a military operation as a way to describe how he thought a marriage and family should work. He spoke of wielding the sword of the Word as William Wallace did in Braveheart. He spoke of being a son of the king. All good word pictures and the Bible supports them. As he spoke, I noted that his wife was not as enthusiastic about being deployed, debriefed and fulfilling duty as he was. Wielding scripture verses like a broad sword did not connect for her.

In his mind, those images conjured up the call to go back to the manual to remember the rules for holy living as found in Colossians and other places. “Love your neighbor, die to self and serve others for the King!” were themes that he could connect with as found in scripture. For the wife, they drew a blank. Not to say she does not believe in duty, service and the King. The language did not connect to her soul.

What could I do to help this couple? Sing!

I mentioned The Sound of Music. What? Yes, the Sound of Music with Julie Andrews. “When the dog bites, when the bee stings, when I’m feeling sad.” Most of you ladies can sing the next line, “I simply remember my favorite things and then I don’t feel so bad!” There is no sword there; just fond memories of favorite things. That word picture is just as valid as William Wallace in a kilt. That language connected for the wife. So where might those favorite things be found for the woman in Christ? The bible. A woman’s truly favorite things, when hard things are happening or action needs to occur, can be remembered in the story of Christ and Him crucified. They are recalled in the verses that speak of loving your neighbor and sacrificing for your children. They are brought home in the texts that speak of a woman being a handmaid to her Lord and in the passages that remind a woman she is a daughter of the king. Those are the same types of verses as for the man, we just took a different route to get to them.

Now I know that some women love Braveheart and some guys Sound of Music. The important thing to note is God is revealed and He uses revelation to point us to Him. Our role, as we communicate, is to help people connect what they connect to in an intimate way, to God.

Worship Well

Dancing with the star

2010-05-09T15:21:00.000-04:00

Unbelievably, it is one of the most watched shows on TV. It is called Dancing With The Stars. Celebrities, some of them B list, join together with professional dancers and learn how to cha cha, rumba, waltz and tango amongst other things. Each week judges judge, the audience votes and someone is kicked off the show. It is a familiar theme on American television these days. It seems that someone is getting kicked off of some metaphorical island each week. The exception being LOST where people want to get off the island and can’t seem to make it happen no matter how much they blow things up, how many boats they get in or how many airplanes they have.

On Dancing With The Stars, each couple desperately tries for a perfect score of 30 as three judges can give a maximum score of 10 each. To date, this season no one has achieved that mark and frankly most have been a C+ or B- at best, in my opinion. Of course, that does not mean much, I only took Beginner Ballroom and half of Ballroom II.

So why do they do it, and what do they want? They want glory. Everyone wants to be judged well and to receive acclaim for what they have done. Some are willing to work hard. Some are willing to cut corners. Some are will do anything to be viewed highly and to get some glory. The bottom line is that all of us want to be known and loved.

The trophy in Dancing With The Stars is a cheap mirror ball. That is it. There is no cash prize. There is no gold ring. But amazingly, people covet what comes with that trophy: to be known as the best among fans and judges.

Now there is nothing wrong with wanting to achieve success. We encourage people to be the best they can be. In fact, God set eternity in our hearts, and we have a desire for glory. If our quest for glory is human-centered though, it will quickly degenerate to a quest for personal power and all the corruption that comes with that. If our quest for glory is God centered, if we are honoring Him as we dance, sing or work at a computer station, our quest is elevated to one of joy and delight. He is the God of great things, and we are called to glorify Him and enjoy Him forever.

So can we remind all of us, that we should not fix our eyes on the temporary glory of this world? Jesus came, and He is the one we should glorify in all things. That includes dancing. It is His party, and He calls us to keep in step with Him.

Μακάριοι

2010-05-09T15:18:00.000-04:00

Matthew the Gospel writer uses the Greek word Μακάριοι (makarios) to describe those who are in the kingdom and happy about it. That describes you and me if we are believers in Jesus Christ. Poor in spirit, mourning, meek and those who are merciful in heart are happy. We know it sounds odd to the world, but to us it makes sense. We are blessed.

Interestingly, the same word is also used seven times in the book of Revelation. You can check out all the references on your own, but today we want to bring to your attention the Μακάριοι of Revelation 19:9. Here it is in context:

‘Then a voice came from the throne, saying: "Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, both small and great!" Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: "Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear." (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints.) Then the angel said to me, "Write: 'Blessed (Μακάριοι) are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!' " And he added, "These are the true words of God."’

It is hard for our human minds to comprehend the picture here but I hope that you feel as I do when I read that passage. It excites me. It moves me. It makes me happy. It gives me confidence. One day, we who are small and great will be with Him, and then we will be Μακάριοι with a capital M!

For today, we can all take joy and be of good cheer. The time for the wedding of the lamb is not far away. Until that day comes , we can participate in the coming of the kingdom. Take another look at the passage. He has given something to wear before the feast. He has given us, the church, righteous acts to in which to walk. Today, we will be nourished by Him, and then we will go out to fill up what is lacking in His afflictions as Paul said. When He comes, we will be ready, and it will be quite the feast.

Those are the true words of God.

Enjoy .

Growing?

2010-03-13T18:43:00.002-05:00

No one likes to shrink. Put a shirt, or a pair of pants, in the clothes dryer and the last thing you want is shrinkage. Get your paycheck and note that it is a bit smaller than last month and you really experience how miserable shrinkage can be. How about your political party? Whether it is blue or red or green, no one likes to have fewer votes in this year’s election than they did in the last year’s election. Simply put, we do not like shrinkage. We like growth; healthy growth, in all aspects of our lives. So as springtime makes its way to Atlanta, lets talk about growing.

Now some growth can be worse than shrinkage. Weeds in the yard, inches around the waist, and clutter down in the basement to name a few. That type of growth will be discussed some other time. This month I want to discuss growth that we all really want. As I do, I want to ask you to think about what is behind our desire for growth and how we can grow in the fullest way possible.

So, let me first set the stage for the discussion. Here is my premise. I find that people like to grow in three areas:

They like to grow financially. Who doesn’t want more money? People really do want a new this or that and, in order to get it, their bank account needs to get bigger.

They like to grow intellectually. Everyone wants to know more; even if is about a reality TV show star or the neighbor next door. The Internet and CNN have stoked the flame of desire we have for more news and information about everything from cakes to cats.

Finally, people want to grow in their relationships with others. Everyone wants to have friends, feel loved and be listened to by those they like. Humans have a deep desire to belong, and to believe that others value them. Further, they do not want their relationships to become stagnant. They want their relationships to deepen over time.

Those desires for growth, I believe, come from deeper needs. Needs for security, freedom and purpose.

Money gives us a type of security doesn’t it? Scarlet O’Hara said it well when she was down and desperate, “I’ll never be hungry again!” Money is a motivator to security. Knowledge buys us freedom from deception and gives us a sense of power. The more you know, the less they can fool you. And having meaningful relationships lifts us up to the high plain of purpose in life. Friendship can be a great reward can’t it?

Now here is the problem. Money, knowledge and relationships can only take us so far. Most people will admit that money cannot fully buy security. I know you want the chance to prove that and some days so do I, but I can tell you that I know a lot of rich people who will say money is not the answer. In fact it can create insecurity.

Knowledge does not fully free us because we know deep down that we can never know it all. We will always fall short of perfect knowledge and someone will deceive us along the way. So how about relationships? No matter how staunch our friends and family are, they cannot fully fill the deep need we have for true purpose in life. There is something in us that wants more purpose then another human can give us. We need a relationship that lets us expose who we are and a relationship that receives us just as we are. We need a relationship that lifts us up in spite of ourselves.

In every one of those areas: money, knowledge and relationships, our growth eventually gets stunted and may even begin to shrink. Somehow, it seems that someone always has more then we do, knows more then we do and often has the relationships we long for, but cannot get. At the end of the day, we wind up dissatisfied and feeling empty. We don’t want that, but there does not seem to be a better way.

So, what is the solution? I suggest that you look beyond. Here is what I mean. Take a glance at people who seem to have a deeper sense of security, freedom and purpose. Look to those who have a life that transcends money, knowledge and even friends. Look beyond material wealth to things that can enrich your soul. Try expanding what you know by going beyond the rational to explore the deep mysteries of religion. When you do that, I believe you will be poised for growth.

I am not necessarily lobbying for you to start with Christianity here. I am suggesting that you ask yourself if you are truly growing in a healthy and satisfying way. If not, I would urge you to look for some ground that could have good nutrients in it for you. Then pick up some materials that will challenge your thinking and look to associate with some people who may have a deeper understanding of security, freedom and purpose.

It won’t be easy. Growth never is. You may find that you have to test a lot of different soils before you come to one that helps you truly grow. Perhaps you will start with Religion A and end up at Religion B, or the other way around. In either direction, the questions will be the same. What will give me security? What will give me a sense of true freedom? How will I know if I have real purpose?

This is the time of year for new growth. Can I suggest you do a bit of digging and see what might spring up?

Worship Well.

A Humble Prayer

2010-02-23T22:48:00.000-05:00

A humble prayer for the Holy Spirit to do a deep work in my soul.

Philip Doddridge modernized by R Schlichting

“Blessed God! I sincerely acknowledge before you my own weakness and insufficiency to begin anything that is spiritually good. I have failed a thousand times; and yet my foolish heart would again ‘trust itself,’ (Prov. 28:26) and form resolutions in its own strength. So, I ask that this be the first fruits of your gracious influence upon my heart: to bring it to a humble distrust of itself, and to a rest in you!

I rejoice, O Lord, in the kind assurances which you give me of your readiness to bestow liberally and richly so great a benefit to my heart. I do therefore, according to your condescending invitation, come with boldness to your throne, that I may find grace to help in every time of need. (Heb. 4:16)

I mean not, O Lord God, to turn your grace into a license for immorality or perverseness (Jude, ver. 4) or to make my weakness an excuse for negligence and sloth. I confess that you have already given me more strength than I have used! I charge it upon myself, and not on you, that I have even recently received still more grace from you through your Word and the Spirit. I desire for the future to be found diligent in the use of all appointed means of grace. When I neglect the grace you have given me, petitions like these become a profane mockery, and they might even provoke you to take away what I have, rather than prevail upon you to give me more. But firmly resolving to exert myself to the utmost to use the grace you have given, I earnestly ask for more grace, that I may be enabled to fulfill that resolution.

Be surety, O Lord, to me your servant for good. (Psa. 119:122) Be pleased to shed your sanctifying influences on my soul, to form me for every duty you require. Implant, I ask you, grace and virtue deep in my heart. Bear with me in the midst of me foolishly assaulting your grace. I know I will continue from time to time to do that while I am still in this world and carry about with me so much sin.

Fill me with good affections towards you, my God, and towards my fellow-creatures. Remind me always of your presence, and may I remember that every secret sentiment of my soul is open to you. May I therefore guard against the first risings of sin, and the first approaches to it. May I guard that Satan may not find room for his evil suggestions. I earnestly beg that you Lord, would fill my heart with your Holy Spirit. Dwell in me, and walk with me, (2 Cor 6:16) and let my body be the temple of the Holy Ghost.

May I be so joined to Jesus my Lord, as to be one with him, (1 Cor. 6:17) and feel His invigorating influences continually bearing me on, superior to every temptation and to every corruption. So that while young people shall faint and grow weary, I may so wait upon the Lord as to renew my strength, (Isai. 40:30,31) and may go on from one degree of faith, and love, and zeal, and holiness, to another, till I appear perfect before you in heaven; (Psa. 84:7) to drink in immortal vigor and joy from you, as the everlasting fountain of both, through Jesus Christ my Lord, in whom I have righteousness and strength, (Isai. 45:24). To him I desire to ascribe praise as the source of all my improvements forever. Amen.”

They are not like us

2010-02-21T21:05:00.000-05:00

Did you watch the Winter Olympics? Truly the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat. Our hearts grieve for the young man who lost his life in the luge. It was good news that the organizers made modifications to increase safety. In the days after the accident, commentators talked about winter sports, extreme sports and the people who engage in them. One of the commentators said this, “They are not like us.” That made me think.

Anyone who will slide down a mountain at 90 miles per hour on the equivalent of two sticks, one stick, a small board or a soapbox derby car is not like us. What makes them do it? Is it the adrenaline rush, the need for speed, the glory of victory, the approval of men, the gold medal or the fame? My guess is it is none of the above. They have a deep desire to do their best, their very best. They want to give it all away and not leave anything on the table. They are extreme because they are passionate.

Now lets compare them to the ordinary Christian. Take me for example. Can I say that I want to give it all away, to die to self and to do my very best? Would those who do not believe in the Lord Jesus Christ say about me, “He is not like us!” Hmm. That causes me to think even more. What is it about me that holds back, that resists taking risks, that keeps me on the “bunny” slope? Lack of faith. That is the difference. In the natural realm, Olympians believe that good things will happen and they believe they can do what they set out to accomplish. It should be so much more true in the spiritual realm for those who believe in Christ. All things do work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose. That would be me and you.

So where do we go from here? To the slope. Ask your self what is one thing in your life you have been fearful to do, that would be for His glory, and then ask Him for faith to move forward. The truth is we are not like them. We are becoming like Him as we keep in step with the Spirit and move forward in faith.

Worship Well

Silence

2010-02-08T17:57:00.001-05:00

She knew he wouldn’t be happy about it, but she had to make the call. “Daddy? I’ve been in a car wreck. It…it was my fault.” Those are words a father does not want to hear. After determining physical safety, he asked where she was. They hopped in the car, mom and dad, and headed down to do what only a parent can do.

It was just a fender bender, and both cars were drivable. After giving insurance information, he slid into the driver’s seat of her car, with her in the passenger’s seat, for the long ride home. Her first words, “I know it is kind of lame to say, but I am sorry.” That’s always a good start.

Of course , there was a lecture. Parents are parents. Some instruction never hurt anyone, did it? Maybe it did, but it made his sin nature feel better. That is the truth. She listened and took it all in. As he spoke, a strange thing happened. It was as if he was talking to himself. Not that she was not listening. It was that he was listening to himself. “You need to be more careful; always be transparent. Listen to counsel; be a bit more circumspect.” Silence followed. “God protected you tonight; it could have been worse. Grace abounds; it was just a fender bender.” More silence. “You know we are for you. We always have been and always will be. There are some financial consequences here. We will have to work that out.”

“I know.” She said.

Then this, “Thanks for coming.”

“What?” He asked.

“Thanks for coming to get me.” She said.

Silence filled the car.

“You know, no matter what, you can always call, and we will always come. Never be afraid to pick up the phone no matter where you are or what you’ve done.”

A reassuring silence filled the car. She knew she could call, whenever. She knew she was loved forever. Sometimes , she might struggle to believe it or live like it, but she knew she was loved. The father knew he was loved too, and that he was able to love. No greater love has a man than what has been given to him by the Lord. He remembered times that he had made the call. The Father had always answered, and He had always come. What love, peace, security, and joy He gives us.

If you are afraid to make the call, we urge you today to know that He is for you. You can pick up the phone called prayer. Perhaps, as He answers and comforts you in your wrecked life and as you are reassured you are loved forever, He will bring a reassuring silence to your soul.

Worship Well .

Flicking

2010-02-07T22:50:00.000-05:00

I can't seem to shake it off. Over the last month or so the Lord has really been working me over about sin. Not my specific sin (although He is having a go at that) but sin in general. Here is what I mean. In the past I have tended to view sin as “having some crumbs” on my pants after dinner. Most of the time I could ignore them. If I was in a energetic mood and they bothered me, it was easy for me to “flick” them off. Flick. It means “a light quick blow, jerk, or touch: a flick of the wrist.”

In other words, I could confess them, say I was sorry, and they would be whisked away. It was as if I flicked the crumbs on the floor and the dog came by to lick them up. Easy stuff. The only problem with that is simply this: sins are not crumbs. They are stains. You can’t flick stains off of your pants. Stains are a problem. A stain has to be washed out very carefully with the right soap, or guess what? It permanently stains the garment. I am sure that has happened to you before. A stain made permanent will cause you to throw away an otherwise good pair of pants.

So, if the word picture is catching your imagination, you might wonder what you can do about it. The Psalmist is helpful here. He says, “Cleanse me with hyssop and I will be clean, wash me and I’ll be whiter than snow.” You need to be washed. More specifically the garment of your soul needs to be cleansed by the blood of Jesus. He is the only one who can remove sin stain. All you need to do is stop trying to flick it off and give it to Him. You are not able. He is more than capable.

As you ask to be cleansed, you might want to thank Him for His power and you might want to ask if He would make your garment a bit more stain resistant. He can do that too. You are worth more than a good pair of jeans and He won’t throw you away.

Worship Well

Lost on Life

2010-02-03T12:58:00.003-05:00

Here is the deal. I am not going to throw out theories. I am not going to get allegorical. I am not even going to guess at sub plots.

I am going to say that this show makes me think like no other ever has. It makes me think about relationships, suffering, sacrifice, good, evil, the times to come and what has happened in the past.

If Lost is just a TV show to you, I think you may be missing the grander purpose and you will be disappointed in the end. All things are from God for you and He would call you to look at everything in light of relationships, suffering, sacrifice, good, evil, the times to come and what has happened. Lost has an uncanny ability to help me focus on those things in my life more then other TV shows. It dials me in.

Now my good friend KT has made a great argument that 24 is similar. I concede the point, but I do have to tip the hat to Lost in terms of looking to what is not natural. We all need that. The unnatural. Something that makes us think but does not necessarily give us answers. This life is a mystery and learning to live in it while seeking truth and resting in promises is good for our souls.

The gospel is that. Jesus was here, is here and will be here. It includes suffering and sacrifice. It is a mystery being revealed, but not fully. There is a promise that we will get off the island, but not too soon. So, I encourage you to join in to both; the mystery of Lost and the mysteriousness of the gospel.

Worship Well

Translation Error?

2010-02-02T16:07:00.001-05:00

I felt like he was about to explode. As I read the fourth chapter of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, I had this deep sense that he was shouting at me and in a good way. “I urge you to live a life worthy!” “There is one body...one spirit...one hope..one Lord...who is over all and through all and in all!” He really set me back on my heals with his intensity. Then I came to the seventh and eight verses, “But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says:

‘When he ascended on high,
he led captives in his train
and gave gifts to men.’”

The “it says” Paul is referring to is Psalm 68:18. Read it carefully: “When you ascended on high, you led captives in your train; you received gifts from men,” (Psalm 68:18)

Hmm. The one ascending on high in Psalm 68 is receiving gifts and the one ascending on high in Ephesians 4 is giving gifts. There seems to be a mistake in Paul’s translation. Or is there?

In days of old, when a conquering king would enter a city he had subdued, he would lead the captives back into their city and receive gifts from them. It is easy to get that picture. After all, “to the victor go the spoils” and to the conquering king, gifts should be given. That is the imagery of Psalm 68; a conquering king who deserves tribute.

The Apostle Paul had seen the king. On the road to Damascus he had an encounter with the risen Jesus and he was conquered. Jesus required no tribute to be paid. He did not march Paul back to his home town and demand gifts. Instead he gave gifts. Jesus turns the role of a king on its head.

So as Paul is writing the letter to the Ephesians, he reminds them that we have the only God who gives gifts. In fact He apportions grace to each one of us who believe in Him as savior. He is the gift giving conqueror. No other religion has a God like that.

Paul goes on to say that God’s people should be prepared for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up. In part that will happen this week as you listen to the preaching of the word, partake of the sacrament, pray and sing. You are being prepared to go and minister in his name. Grace has been apportioned to you by your great gift giving king. That is something to get excited about.

Worship Well

Lost vs 24

2010-01-30T19:24:00.002-05:00

I have to do it. It is time to make a public stand. Lost is better than 24. I know my friend KT might disown me for saying that, but the truth has to be told. Here are the facts.

1. Jack kicks some tail. Smoke monster KICKS ALL TAIL!

2. People on 24 die. People on Lost die and then come back to life.

3. Jack can never die. ANYONE on Lost can die.

4. Jack rules the city. No one rules the island.

5. Jack needs computers. Lost? Technology is shut down.

6. All that in 24 hours? C'mon. You need time? Lost will give it to you!

7. Lost has literary and science allusions galore, including biblical ones.

8. Lost has the future.

9. Lost is multi ethnic.

10. Lost has an end.

So, there you have it and that is just a taste. There is something above and beyond on Lost that Bauerites can't get to. Nothing wrong with you watching both. Just know which is better.

OK. I am ready for comments.

Lost

2010-01-23T21:01:00.003-05:00

I have not said anything about Lost since I don't know when. I just read a book by Chris Seay entitled "The gospel according to Lost" Very interesting. Chris does a nice job of recapping story line, analyzing characters and fishing out biblical themes. All very well done. Chris does not guess at what will happen. He causes the reader to think about what has happened. I recommend it as a quick read in preparation for the last season of Lost.

It fascinates me that so many people are captivated by Lost. Something has connected here for those who believe in God and for those who do not. I think the essence of it is that, as we watch Lost, we see that the Losties are involved in a mystery, the end of which they can not predict. That thought touches the heart of who we are. We know that we are involved in a mystery, the end of which we can not predict.

We hope for a good outcome and we want to make sure one happens but sometimes we fear it will not. Tension.

We can read the Bible all we want, go to conferences, pray and think, but the truth is we are in a mystery and no one knows how it will end. All we can say is that things have happened. We got here somehow. Someone was here before us. There is a greater power. He is in control and we are not. He can do supernatural things. We can not. And time moves forward. Except when we live in the past.

Those of us who are of faith, live with the mystery too, even though we don't like to admit it. We like to pretend we know more than we do.

We do have one thing though that others outside the faith do not: hope. A deep and abiding hope that Jesus was exactly who He said He was. Not just because of the Bible, but because internally we are convicted. It goes beyond words. We know we will get off the island and we know it will be good. We just don't know when.

In the mean time we are called to hang out with a motley crew of characters. Murderers, thieves and liars. As we do, we come to find out that they are us and we are called to look at ourselves. Past, present and future. That drives us to repentance and Him.

What will the next season bring? No spoilers here. I know as much as you, or maybe less. All I can say is that we are in the end season and all will be consummated in due time.

Blessings

Pride

2010-01-11T18:55:00.001-05:00

All of us have some sense of pride in who we are and where we came from. Our own tradition is meaningful to us, be we German, Welsh or Italian, heritage means something. There is nothing wrong in being proud of where you came from. My guess is, for many of you, your father or mother told you, “Be proud!” regardless of the newness of your shoes, the fadedness of your jeans or even the color of your skin. Pride can be good.

There is a pride that goes deeper than the pride we have in our heritage. It goes beyond country of origin, patches on jeans or color of skin. It is a pride in whose we are and what we are called to. Martin Luther King understood that. He was a proud man. His pride was found in the One who had selflessly humiliated Himself to set men and women free. MLK was proud of Him. He boasted in Him. He was free at last in Him.

MLK was not interested in pride demonstrated by those who thought horizontally. Some were proud because they were black. Some were proud because they were white. MLK repudiated that level of pride as an end in itself. He knew it led to bondage. He knew there was a greater and richer pride found only through freedom in Christ. It was pride in the One who transcended color. The One whose blackened and butchered body dripped red blood on white cloth. His boasted in Jesus.

Bono of U2, a white Irishman, said it well as he wrote of Dr King. They could take his life, but they could not take his pride. Death could not kill boasting in the Lord. Jesus died a death He did not deserve to set a people free. “What more in the name of love?” Nothing. There is nothing more to be done in the name of love. Love has done all. Now we are called; black, white and brown to take pride in who we collectively are in Him, Christ Jesus our head. We are called to serve like Him, love like Him and take pride in His name as His glory spreads over the earth. To live as free men.

One day He will bring us all together, every tribe, tongue, color and nation. Until then He calls us to work together as we sing the songs of freedom:

Early morning, April 4
Shot rings out in the Memphis sky
Free at last, they took your life
They could not take your pride

In the name of love
What more in the name of love
In the name of love
What more in the name of love
In the name of love
What more in the name of love...

Bono, U2 “Pride, (In the name of love)”

2010 It was a very good year!

2010-01-08T15:28:00.002-05:00

Frank Sinatra sang it, “It was a very good year...”

When I was twenty-one
It was a very good year
It was a very good year for city girls
Who lived up the stair
With all that perfumed hair
And it came undone
When I was twenty-one

We have a habit of looking back and our memories have a habit of re-shaping the edges as we do. It was a very good year. Nothing wrong with looking back. I wonder if we can entice you to look back on 2010 and say NOW, “It was a very good year.”

You see, in God’s calendar, every year is a good year. It is Anno Domine, the year of our Lord. Further, when Jesus came over 2,000 years ago He inaugurated the year of the Lord’s favor. And that never ends. So, no matter what circumstances fall, you can count on it. 2010. It was a very good year.

Worship Well

Decorations

2010-01-02T20:59:00.003-05:00

Well, the decorations are coming down. Lights, trees, ornaments, manger and ribbons. The presents have been put away, the cookies are almost gone and I am looking at how I will work off the extra pounds I gained. Christmas is over.

It took a seemingly long time put it all up and just a minute to take it all down. All is as it was.

Or is it? Do we really only celebrate Jesus for a day or a week? Do we wait now until Easter to celebrate Him again?

Question. Who is the decoration? Answer. We are. We are His ornaments, His light. We are the ones called to celebrate Him and reflect His joy to the world. The Lord is come.

So can I encourage you as you start 2010 to remember that we are called to know we are free in Christ? If we know and live that, then we can celebrate Him. As we celebrate we will want others to join in the party. That is called community. Finally, we will look for true joy as we discover the magic of serving others together in His name.

Now, go light up the place!

Has the Lord come?

2009-12-24T12:20:00.002-05:00

It must have been hard for those not in Bethlehem. They were still waiting. How could they have known he came? As Lloyd Weber said, "Israel had no mass communication."

Some died the next day or week. Never knowing He came. Even in the next years. They simply did not get the message. Doctrine of election aside, I wonder if we are called to get the message out in any way we can. A card, a call, a conversation.

No need to defend His position. Just to say, "We celebrate. He came back for us!" People can reach their own conclusions. Some might think we are goofy. Maybe if some don't think we are goofy, we are not communicating the joyous news at all.

He came back for us!!

Merry Christmas

Ahead

2009-12-23T22:53:00.002-05:00

I wonder if you might take a moment and look ahead. Past Christmas.

2010.

A whole new decade.

Can you think of two things you want God to do in you and through you next year? How about one thing you really want to stop? Anything you know you have to start doing for health?

Planning counts.

Once you do it, ask some one, "Is this for me?" Ask someone who will be hard on you. Ask some one who will definitely force you to change it.

Blessings

The Question I Dread

2009-12-22T23:17:00.001-05:00

I was recently on a flight and sat next two two young people. The woman was going to meet her boyfriend for vacation in a very romantic city and the man his girlfriend. As their stories unfolded, it turned out that one of those being visited was not quite yet divorced. “It is what it is,” my traveling companion said. We chatted more, and then it came. It is the question I dread, “So..., what do you do?”

The shortest time between two sentences is between the time I say, “I am a pastor” and they say, “Oh, oh.. I am so sorry.” They are not sorry that I am a pastor, but that they just told me something that they think a pastor would view as inappropriate: “I am dating a married man” kind of thing. Now, I have been around long enough that I know how to play it cool. I never say, “You are going to hell!!”, and I never say, “That’s nice!” I just say that I am not offended. Not that I am indifferent, but my role, and yours if you are a Christian, is to be a witness; not to put someone on a witness stand. There is no need for me to grill someone on their lifestyle. It just puts up a wall. Besides, non-Christians act like non-Christians. Sometimes Christians act like non-Christians! God is offended at both. The good news is Jesus paid for offenses of His people.

Back to my plane ride. I asked the woman if I could share a few thoughts. Now because she had, in her mind anyway, offended me, I think she felt obliged to let me speak, maybe expecting the hellfire speech. I spoke of my daughter who had committed to not say, “I love you” to a man until he put a ring on her finger. Her eyes lit up. I asked her to think about what that might look like for her. I said that I normally encourage people to wait at least a year after they are divorced to begin dating because it gives them time to recover. She frowned at that one. Most importantly, in front of the man who was sitting between us, I shared that she was made in the image of God, and she had worth; she was a “catch.” She smiled, and her eyes brightened.

So where was Jesus? How did she not get “saved” on the way to Paris? Jesus was and is interceding. Rest assured, the Holy Spirit will apply His work to hearts of the elect. How? Here is where you get involved. At the end of the flight, she sincerely thanked me for “my” wisdom, and she asked for my email as she gave me hers. The trip is not over for her. I have an email.

Now, I would love your thoughts on what to write to her. Post away! Then pray for her. By the way, can I encourage you to engage with people you meet? You don’t have to be going to Paris. No frontal assaults permitted, and you have a great advantage in that you do not have to say you are a pastor.

Blessings.

The Power of Presence at Christmas

2009-12-18T18:02:00.003-05:00

Christmas is a time for presents isn’t it? My guess is most of you will give or receive some present on Christmas Eve or day. That is just great, and it really is an important part of the season. As you do, we would love for you to reflect on presence. The words are similar aren’t they? The presence we are talking about is, in the first part, your presence. You are present here today, on earth.

Presence counts for a lot. In fact, it counts for more than presents. Being with someone has a value that far surpasses sending them a gift in a box. This holiday season many of you will give a hug, share a meal, smile a smile and laugh till you cry as you gather with one another around a dinner table. Some of you will weep as you realize that the one who was present last year is no longer here.

There is a great One who makes His presence known at this time of year. Jesus came in human form to be with us. He lived with us and died amongst us. He rose from the grave and now intercedes in the presence of the Father. He is our ever present help in trouble. He is Emmanuel, God with us. This is the time of year we remember all that and more.

No other religion has a God like that; a God who is with us and in fact is in us. He is our great present. He is our great reward.

So as we celebrate this season, we encourage you to be fully present and to enter into His presence. It is a bit mysterious, but we believe His presence this season is for you.

If you have questions, are hurting or feel like your presence is so small that no one cares, let us know. We care because He does. Have a blessed Christmas.

Mysterious Meal

2009-12-16T08:09:00.001-05:00

Most people like a good mystery novel or movie. It is engaging to get caught up in a plot, try to figure out who did it and then have all things resolve in the end. We like to get answers don’t we? That is part of the reason we come to church. To get answers. We get some answers as we sing, as we pray and certainly as the Word is preached. How about the Lord’s Table? Are any mysteries solved there? Yes and no.

Many of you know what we believe about the Lord’s Supper. It is more than a remembrance. Those who are in good standing in the church may come to it. It is a means of grace. It is to be taken in community in conjunction with the preaching of the Word.

We believe more than that, but that is not the point of this blog. I want to share with you today that it is mysterious and it gives us the answers we need. It is mysterious because we do not know exactly what happens and how Christ is unusually present.

We can tell you that sometimes nothing happens on the surface. That is when we remember it is a spiritual thing. Sometimes emotions are evident, but we always consider them in light of spiritual change. We do it because Jesus strongly suggested we do. He knows all the details. So where are the answers? Maybe the answer is found in the question, “Are you in Christ?”

I mean after all you have said and done, wicked thoughts you have had, kind deeds you left undone and the general malaise you have had towards the One who died for you, are you still here? Are you still counting yourself as one of the faithful? If you come to the table, the answer is yes. You are saying, at that moment, “I take Christ over my sin, over my life, over my free will. I take Christ.”

In the past few months we have seen people be so mysteriously drawn to the table that they were willing to give up sin. As we have counseled with them, and they have admitted holding on to sin, we have said, “We want you to come to the table, but we fear that you can not unless you are willing to lay down your sin.”

We are His witnesses. Some have. They so wanted Him that they laid down them. Tears of emotion included were not the reality, Christ was the reality. He overwhelmed them and they were changed. He drew them.

Maybe you are stuck. Maybe you are holding on to something. Release it by the power of the Spirit and come to the table of the Lord a free man or woman. He waits for you. Saturday nights 6p. Sunday morning 10:45a gym

Worship Well

3

2009-12-15T21:38:00.002-05:00

I was so over it. One car in shop = $900. Next car = $250. Next car dripping from water pump. We will wait. First car back in shop another $200. Next car (2nd car) back in shop. Leaking water. I was expecting the worst. ARGHH!!!

So my Volvo guy called me. "Mr Schlichting your car is ready.."

"How much Edgar?" (yes we are on a first name basis) "Three..." I thought, "$300...oh my..." "Ok," I said.

"Actually, three seventy eight..." Edgar said. "You just needed a clamp. $3.78"

He could have said $378 and I would have paid. I don't know the difference. He was honest. He was trustworthy. $3.78

We need people we can trust. I am sure Edgar is not perfect, but he was kind.

Need a good Volvo guy? Ask me.

Sometimes I think the worst. Expecting Him to tell me the great expense. Often, my life is a lot better then I think. He is sweeter than we know.

Blessings!

On the Shelf

2009-12-11T23:32:00.002-05:00

This will be the last post about it!

Minority Rules is now officially on the shelf!! Sold only at Perimeter Bookstore where the staff is wonderful!

The gist of the book is that Christians are a minority, but they don't recognize it and so they live like the majority to the demise of the movement. Christians need Pirates of the Carribean type guidelines to help them fulfill their purpose.

Click here to go to the web store or stop by and meet Luann and her great team!

Minority Rules

2009-12-10T22:49:00.002-05:00

When you think of a minority, what comes to mind? African americans perhaps. People who like butterscotch. Gays. Women CEOs. Koreans in Atlanta. There are lots of ways to look at minorities. I wonder if you think of Christians as a minority. I do.

In America, Christians are a minority. Most polls will reveal that even though more than 50% of people believe in God, a very small percentage believe in the God who is also Jesus, as He is truly portrayed in the Bible.

Christians are a minority. So what? Does it matter? Yes, it does because if you are a minority and you act like the majority, you lose your distinction and perhaps extinction is on the horizon. That is the question for Christians today. Christians are a shrinking minority.

Got Credit?

2009-12-08T19:18:00.001-05:00

Most of us have it: the ability to borrow money. It can take the form of a home equity loan, a car loan, a credit card or a loan from a friend or relative. We can get what we need now and pay for it later. We have credit. So this holiday season, all who have credit can use it and pay for things in January. In fact, if we can’t pay for it in January, we can pay for it in February or March. Installment plans work.

So why not do that? After all it is just a little interest. Well, we would say that you should not buy presents for people using a credit card, if you can not pay the bill at the end of the month. The debtor is a slave to the lender. More importantly, using credit like that says something about our souls. It is a spiritual thing. It says that we are not patient. It says that we feel the need for approval or acceptance. It says that we want to buy love. It does not say that we have a healthy perspective on money.

Jesus said it well. You cannot serve God and money. So, bluntly put, we want to implore you to serve God this season. We know it will be hard. We know the temptation is great. We know that everyone else will have more and do more. We know. We also know that the way of the Lord is, “paid in full.”

Some of you may have credit card debt. We encourage you to develop a plan to get out of it. We have some good ministries that can help. We believe you will be happier and holier if you take a pass on debt this Christmas.

Last point: help others. There are people in your family who cannot afford it either. Offer to do a “service gift” exchange or have a meal together. Be honest. Tell them, “This is the year for a note card, not a gift card.” Be creative, but don’t let your sin nature or the evil one convince you that you need to keep up with other’s gift giving ability.

Then, on the 24th when fewer presents are opened, remember that He is our very great reward.

Worship Well.

Check Engine Light

2009-12-06T22:24:00.002-05:00

It came on as I headed to church this morning. Ugh. It gave me such an uneasy feeling, like I was going to break down on the side of the road. I felt a sense of urgency to get to the shop, but I had to go to church.

I naively thought I could turn the car off, then on again and the light might go off. No luck. It needs to go to the shop.

As I drove on, nervously glancing at all gauges, I thought again, "Oh that my soul would have a check engine light!"

That way I could see what needs to be tended to by the master mechanic. That way I would know I need to go to His shop. Perhaps he granted me that as I reflected on my anxious thoughts.

New Book

2009-12-05T15:01:00.003-05:00

I am going to take a few posts this week and talk about my first book. It is now published and will be in the Perimeter bookstore on the 13th of December. I want to ask you to buy a copy to read for several reasons:

1. I think it opens up an important conversation for those who call themselves Christians. My thesis is that Christians are a minority, but we live and act like the majority to the demise of our movement.

2. It is a quick read, but not a simple read. By that I mean it is 120 pages but it will, I think cause you to read slow and think about (a) whether you agree and (b) about the paradigm shift I am exploring.

3. It is inexpensive. Especially if you order it now.

So, here is the link MINORITY RULES to the bookstore. You can pre-order online now for very cheap.

Blessings!

2009-12-01T07:41:00.001-05:00

Holiday home. We look forward to welcoming people we love. Time to clean the house and heart.

A New Creed

2009-11-30T22:56:00.001-05:00

I have been thinking about creeds lately. Check this one out, especially the last line.

Creed of the Eternal Covenant

We believe in God the Father, who with the Son and the Spirit fashioned, from His heart, the eternal covenant before time began.

Because of this great decree, He created the heavens and earth. He created mankind in His image.

We confess that man, by willful disobedience, attempted to break the covenant, but the plan of God was, and is, certain.

We acknowledge that the great love of the Son compelled Him to take on human flesh and live a perfect life in keeping with the terms of the covenant. He suffered the wrath of the Father for the sins of all believers of all time; making right what we had made wrong.

After He completed that work, He ascended into heaven and continues to labor on behalf of our offspring and us to this day.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, who awakens the children of God from spiritual sleep and enables them to become more like Christ by faith. He will continue to do so until Christ Jesus comes again in glory to fully consummate the covenant.

We believe in the church universal. We commit our time here as stewards of the visible church to His glory by using the gifts He has richly blessed us with. May He correct us, even ever so sternly, if we waver from the life and faith He has purchased for us. Amen.

2009-11-29T18:51:00.001-05:00

Get ready! We are about to take this blog to the next level! New writers, pictures, links. Podcasts! We are excited!

Forgot to tell her

2009-11-29T17:52:00.002-05:00

As a single woman she had lived in our basement apartment. We were and are good friends. We laughed and cried together and exchanged Christmas gifts. We are close. I officiated at her wedding to a wonderful man in the church. How much more can you know someone?

One day she came to me and told me the news, “I am pregnant!” I congratulated her and even gave her a public hug. What great news! In these days, there are couples who keep it close to the vest when they are pregnant, wanting to tell only a few people so I asked, “May I tell my wife?” “Of course you can” she said.

Well, you know what happened. I forgot. I got busy thinking of other things. I did not rush home and proclaim the news, “She’s having a baby!” I know all of you men can relate to that, and I am sure all of you women are thinking, “Yes, and when the baby is born he will not remember how much it weighs, its length or even its sex!” Convicted.

The next Sunday, she saw my wife. My wife knew nothing and so did not congratulate her. There was an awkward silence. She was expecting a response over hearing of the news. No response came because the news had not been shared. “You don’t know do you?” she asked. “Know what?” my wife said. Then she re-told the news, and they celebrated.

So how about you. Do you have the news? He had a Son. I don’t know the size or weight. I do know He was and is weighty. I also know His love cannot be measured. He had a Son! Can I encourage us as we enter the holiday season to not forget to share that news? I know you are busy with a lot of other things, but we implore you to share this news. Some people do not know because they have not been told. We pray that you will be able to rejoice with them as they receive it.

Along the way, invite them to come to church and celebrate with the rest of us. It will be a joyful time.

Worship Well.

2009-11-29T17:50:00.001-05:00

I am seeing if I can post by phone!

Fix Me!

2009-11-04T15:33:00.001-05:00

Reverend Carter and I have the joy of meeting with people who are hurting. We see a lot of pain and brokenness, and we see the God of the universe do mighty things through it. It is not always easy. Sometimes, when people come to see us they say, in so many words, “Fix my spouse!” or “Fix my life!” Well, you know what happens. We can’t fix them. We are not Mr. Fix It, so expectations have to be re-set.

We are in the fix it business though.

What do we do? We say, in so many words, “Fix your eyes!” We encourage people to fix their eyes on Jesus. Now that sounds too simplistic doesn’t it? It sounds very churchy. It almost sounds goofy: “You mean fixing my eyes on Jesus is the answer?”

Yes, we do mean that. We mean it in a very large part, and it is a lot easier to say than do. Our eyes want to gaze everywhere but to Jesus. We want to look to our partner’s sin; we want to stare at our own problems, and we want to cast a dark glance at the world, politicians and businessmen. We want to look everywhere but to Him. We are called to fix our eyes on Him because He is the author and perfecter of our faith. That is what we need: faith that is being made more perfect through which we can live.

Behavior modification, communication techniques, tinkering with schedules, toying with counseling and attempting to white knuckle it will get you nowhere but hurt when it comes to fixing life’s problems. Only the Holy Spirit can do the real work of change in a person’s heart, and He shines a spotlight on Jesus. So Jesus is the God Man on whom we should fix our gaze.

Can we encourage you to ask yourself a question? Are you trying to fix it? If you are, we implore you to look to the One who can do immeasurably more than you can ask. By the way, we are His helpers, and you are welcome to contact us. We are learning to fix our eyes too.

Worship Well.

Let Me In

2009-09-25T15:20:00.001-04:00

I am sure it has happened to you. You are on the highway. You need to move over a lane, but traffic is heavy. If it is moving fast, it is scary to try and scoot over. If it is backed up, you need to somehow signal to the driver in the other lane that you want come into his lane because if you change before he lets you, it will cause an accident.

Now, I don’t know how it works for you, but sometimes the driver in the other lane is “less than friendly”; he does not let me in. It makes me a bit mad, but I have to admit and repent. From time to time, I have not let a driver in front of me. Especially, if it is one of those situations where we have all been waiting in line, and he has “cut to the front.” I know I should have more grace, but that is not the point of this story.

Last month I was driving in a caravan that included my wife and my daughter. Whenever we would get in a situation that required changing lanes, I could always count on them to know that I needed to change and to let me in - every time. There was no blinker necessary. They did not begrudge it, and often they slowed down so I could scoot in front of them. It was beautiful. I don’t know if you have experienced that, but it makes driving wonderful, especially on Georgia highways.

So here is the deal. We are in a caravan. All of us who are believers in the Lord Jesus Christ are in a triumphal procession. Look to your left and right. Now look behind you. Is there anyone around you who needs to be let into the caravan? They may not have their turn signal on, but you know the road is narrowing ahead. Perhaps you will have to slow down for a bit, glance over and “wave them in”, so they can get ahead of you and feel the pleasure of riding with the team.

Do you see someone with a flat tire? What can you do? Stop, help, and give a little encouragement. It will take some time, but remember that Good Samaritan story. Jesus stopped for you, and He continues to pull you out of the ditch and set you on the high road. He calls us to do unto others as He has unto us.

I don’t know where you are today. Maybe you need someone to let you into the caravan. We would love to do that. Contact us. There is no blinker necessary. Worship Well.

On Shepherding

2009-09-18T14:30:00.003-04:00

"May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen." Hebrew 13:20-21

The writer of Hebrew begins to conclude his great letter with this benediction. We often us it here at Perimeter at the end of a service as a way to give you a blessing and sent you out in the world.

Let's take a look at it, as it is full of His love.

God is a god of peace. He is the one who reconciled us to Him while we were at war. He did it before time, in the eternal covenant. You see, before time and space began, He had it all worked out. The Father said "I will create my people will sin against me!" The Son said, " I will pay the price for their sin!" The Spirit covenanted to apply the work of Jesus to elect throughout all time. The blessed triune God made an eternal covenant that will never be broken. That is bigger than big for you to know. You do not need to keep that covenant. In fact you cannot keep the covenant. He keeps it for you. How does He do that?

God the Father brought Jesus back from the dead after He had suffered the agony of hell. Jesus is the covenant maker and keeper. Further, Jesus is the great shepherd of the sheep. He loves His lambs, and He tenderly cares for them. He is the great shepherd. He is the one who can equip you with every good thing for doing His will and not yours. He wants you to what is best, and that is His will. He knows it is the healthiest thing you can do.

Finally the writer says this in so many words, " Let's give Him complete liberty!" He asks that His will works in us to what is pleasing to Him. Amen.

So there you have it. It is just a slice of Hebrews. Can we encourage you to read the rest today?

Blessings!

Back to School Stress

2009-09-11T15:45:00.002-04:00

It's back. So who is stressed? Everyone is. Why is that? Anticipation. Of course, I am talking about school, and there is plenty of stress to go around. For students stressors include: "Who will my friends be? Why do I have to take Math? I can't believe I got the hardest Physics teacher! Will I measure up, and will they approve of the way I look, act and talk?"

For mom you can include a lot of the above and add, " Will my kid to his homework without a nightly war? Will I have to pack lunch every morning? How will we manage the carpool?"

What about Dads? Oh yes, you do stress underneath that cool exterior. "Will my kid have good enough grades to get the HOPE? Do we have to pay for all those extracurricular activities? Can the homework get done before I get home from work because I want to relax, and why can't we just have a schedule and stick to it?"

Of course dads, like me, have to add the obligatory "When I was a boy, I walked to school both ways with cardboard shoes; why can't we have a little focus here at the beginning of the school year?"

Stress - it is here. Now we don't want to give you any simple "Christian" stress buster answers like, "Have a family devotion each day," "The family that prays together does better on the SAT" or "This too shall pass."

However, we do want to offer you some hope. Stress is part of the human condition. Fear of negative things happening is not unusual. You are real and human if you have stress. Do you know part of the reason that you do have anticipatory stress?

Those bad things sometimes do happen!

Students, you probably won't be liked by some. The carpool will get messed up. The homework won't be done. It will be hectic. That is life.

Does it help to know that bad things will happen? Maybe not.

By the way, some unexpected good things might happen too. You will get the right locker; someone else will offer to carpool, and homework might get done occasionally before dad gets home.

So how do you move forward knowing your "anticipatory stress" will be proved right?

Move forward knowing He wants to be prepared to look to Him when those "bad" things happen and praise Him in the middle of the storm. In order to do that, you need to prepare. Prepare to look for comfort that can only come from Him and prepare to be a comforter to others for His namesake. In order that you will need to call on him. He is the One who prepares the way.

So what about the stress!!?! It came to nudge your soul to worship the God of peace.

Blessings.

How to win a war

2009-08-27T17:06:00.002-04:00

How do you win a war? You throw more bombs their way then they throw your way. Shock and awe. Don’t stop until they surrender. War is hard, and you better be aggressive. It helps to know their soft spot too. If you can hit that, you can obliterate them with out much damage to your own people.

Technology is helpful. Smart bombs, drones and night vision are a tremendous aid to us. We keep on innovating, so we can make sure the enemy cannot overwhelm us. That is the way we like to work, and it works.

During the Cold War, we aimed our nukes at them, and they aimed theirs at us. We always had our fingers on the button. All it would have taken was a phone call to get the missiles flying in both directions. Each year, our missiles got better, and so did theirs. But our “better” was better than their “better.” That is how you win a war.

So how do you win a war? What if it is a war between two people? Some would tell you to use the same strategy: lob missiles, verbal assaults, crush egos and decimate the relationship. Then you get the lawyers and drain the bank accounts. You find the soft spot and pound it mercilessly.

That is not the way we like to work it as it does not work in Christianity. There is a counterintuitive way to win a war between two people. It is called putting to death the deeds of your own flesh. As opposed to lobbing missiles at the other person, Jesus calls us to do things like get the log out of our own eye and put to death our own sin. He calls us to wage war on ourselves when we are in conflict with another. It seems like a losing strategy, but it is a winner.

The Spirit enables you to do battle with your sin nature. As you do that, He gives you the ability to love your enemy. That is not to say that you cannot enter into conflict. It is to say that Christians have a unique way to win the battle because the peace of Christ reigns.

If you are in Christ, you have a new nature and a sin nature. When you are in relationship with other Christians, your new nature is what is in fellowship with their new nature. Your sin nature is not in relationship with anybody. It is at war. That is what causes wicked conflicts. In your new nature, you are able to love and confront gently while admitting your own sin.

The sin nature wants to pick a fight. So give it what it wants: a fight with the Spirit. That is a war it cannot win.

Do you have a conflict with someone? Can we encourage you to pray today and seek to deal with your own issues and then approach them in love?

If that is too scary, we can help. Peace.

Powerless?

2009-07-08T10:59:00.002-04:00

Standing in front of the majesty of the ocean, I can't help but feel totally powerless. Just an endless horizon of water mirroring the endless expanse of sky seems to make my little life more than insignificant. I'm sure you've felt what I'm talking about while looking at the same view. It's a humbling sensation that God asks us to feel daily in His presence. But simultaneously we must be empowered by His mighty Spirit, to allow Him to do in us those acts that otherwise we would be powerless to perform.

The LORD said to Moses, "When you return to Egypt, see that you perform before Pharaoh all the wonders I have given you the power to do."
Exodus 4:20-21

But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.
Exodus 9:15-17

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:12-14

Posted by Erinn Waldo

Lyrics May 31 2009

2009-06-30T09:35:00.003-04:00

Praise To The Lord, The Almighty
Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul praise Him, for He is thy health and salvation!
All ye who hear, now to His temple draw near;
Join me in glad adoration!

Praise to the Lord, who o'er all things so wondrously reigneth,
Shelters thee under His wings, yea, so gently sustaineth!
Hast Thou not seen how thy desires all have been
Granted in what He ordaineth?

Chorus:
Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah!

Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend thee;
Surely his goodness and mercy here daily attend thee.
Ponder anew what the Almighty can do,
If with his love He befriend thee.

Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore Him!
All that hath life and breath, come now with praises before Him.
Let the "amen" sound from His people again;
Gladly forever adore Him.

Let the "amen" sound from His people again;
Gladly forever adore Him.

Words By Joachim Neander; Additional Chorus By Nathan and Christy Nockels Arrangement By Eric Gilbert © 2004 Word Music/ASCAP CCLI License No. 413744

Because of Your Love
As we come into Your presence we remember every blessing
That You've poured out so freely from above
Lifting gratitude and praises for compassion so amazing Lord,
We've come to give You thanks for all You've done.

Chorus:
Because of Your love, we're forgiven
Because of Your love, our hearts are clean
We lift You up with songs of freedom
Forever we're changed because of Your love

2006 Integrity's Hosanna! Music.
Thankyou Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing) CCLI# 413744

Revelation Song
Worthy is the Lamb Who was slain,
Holy holy is He.
Sing a new song, to Him who sits on
Heaven's mercy seat.

Chorus
Holy holy holy Is the Lord God Almighty,
Who was and is And is to come.
With all creation I sing Praise to the King of kings.
You are my ev'rything, And I will adore You.

Clothed in rainbows, of living color
Flashes of lightning, rolls of thunder
Blessing and honor strength and
Glory And power be
To You the only wise King

Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder,
At the mention of Your name.
Jesus Your name is power, Breath and living water,
Such a marv'lous mystery.

Words and Music by Jennie Lee Riddle
Copyright: 2004 Gateway Create Publishing (Admin by Integrity’s Praise! Music) CCLI#413744

Satisfied
All my lifelong I had panted
For a drink from some cool spring.
That I hoped would quench the burning
Of the thirst I felt within.

Chorus:
Hallelujah He has found me.
The One my soul so long has craved
Jesus satisfies my longings.
Thro' His blood I now am saved.

Feeding on the filth around me
Till my strength was almost gone.
Longed my soul for something better
Only still to hunger on.

Poor I was and sought for riches
Something that would satisfy.
But the dust I gathered 'round me
Only mocked my soul's sad cry.

Well of water ever springing
Bread of life so rich and free.
Untold wealth that never faileth
My Redeemer is to me.

Clara Teare Williams / Ralph E. Hudson
www.songtouch.com © Public Domain CCLI License No. 413744

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Praise Him all creatures here below.
Praise Him above, ye heavenly hosts.
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.

Words and Music By Thomas Ken and Louis Bourgeois © Public Domain
Arrangement by: Matt Redman Passion Hymns CCLI License No. 413744

My Lips Will Praise You
My lips will praise You For You are holy
My voice will ever rise Before Your throne
My heart will love You For You are lovely
And You have called me To become Your own

Chorus:
I am Your own And I will worship You alone
I am Your own I am Your child
I am Your own And I will worship at Your throne
I am Your ownAnd I will love You

Words & Music by: Twila Paris
1998 Ariose Music & Mountain Spring Music (Admin EMI Christian Music Publishing) CCLI#413744

Imix May 31 2009

2009-06-29T13:57:00.000-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on the May 31st , 2009:
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=318635217

Lyrics May 24 2009

2009-06-29T13:46:00.003-04:00

All Because of Jesus
Giver of every breath I breathe.
Author of all eternity.
Giver of every perfect thing.
To You be the glory.

Maker of heaven and of earth,
No one can comprehend Your worth.
King over all the universe,
To You be the glory.
I’m alive because I’m alive in You.

Chorus:
It’s all because of Jesus I’m alive.
It’s all because the blood of Jesus Christ,
Covers me and raised this dead man’s life.
It’s all because of Jesus I’m alive.

Bridge:
Every sunrise sings Your grace.
The universe cries out Your praise.
I’m singing freedom all my days,
Now that I’m alive.

Author: Steve Fee Copyright:
2006 LeviBear (Admin. by Feeble Productions) CCLI# 413744

Awesome Is The Lord
Great are You Lord, mighty in strength
You are faithful, and You will ever be.
We will praise You all of our days.
It’s for Your glory, we offer everything.

Chorus:
Raise Your hands, all you nations
Shout to God, all creation.
How awesome is the Lord most high.
We will praise You together
For now and forever
How awesome is the Lord most high.

Where You send us God, we will go.
You’re the answer; we want the world to know.
We will trust You when You call our names
Where You lead us, we’ll follow all the way.

Bridge:
Hallelujah, hallelujah
How awesome is the Lord most high.

Words and Music: Chris Tomlin, Cary Pierce, Jesse Reeves, Jon Abel
© 2006 WorshipTogether.com songs (Admin by EMI Christian Music Publishing and Brentwood Benson music Pub., Inc.) SixSteps Music CCLI# 413744

Blessed Assurance
Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
Born of His Spirit and washed in His blood.

Chorus:
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all day long;
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all day long;

Perfect submission, perfect delight!
Visions of rapture now burst on my sight;
Angels descending bring from above
Echoes of mercy and whispers of love.

Perfect submission, all is at rest,
I in my Savior am happy and blest;
Watching and waiting, looking above,
Filled with His goodness and lost in His love.

Words and Music By Fanny Jane Crosby
This ARR © 2005 Perimeter Ministries/Eric Gilbert CCLI License No. 413744

Mighty To Save
Everyone needs compassion.
Love that's never failing,
Let mercy fall on me.
Everyone needs forgiveness,
The kindness of a Savior,
The hope of nations.

Chorus:
Savior, He can move the mountains.
My God is mighty to save. He is mighty to save.
Forever, Author of salvation,
He rose and conquered the grave.
Jesus conquered the grave.

So take me as You find me,
All my fears and failures.
Fill my life again.
I give my life to follow,
Everything I believe in,
Now I surrender.

Bridge:
Shine your light and let the whole world see.
We're singing for the glory of the risen King Jesus.
Shine your light and let the whole world see.
We're singing for the glory of the risen King.

Authors: Ben Fielding/Reuben Morgan
2006 Hillsong Publishing (Admin. In U.S. & Can. by Integrity’s Hosanna! Music

Praise To The Lord, The Almighty
Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul praise Him, for He is thy health and salvation!
All ye who hear, now to His temple draw near;
Join me in glad adoration!

Praise to the Lord, who o'er all things so wondrously reigneth,
Shelters thee under His wings, yea, so gently sustaineth!
Hast Thou not seen how thy desires all have been
Granted in what He ordaineth?

Chorus:
Hallelujah, Hallelujah,
Hallelujah, Hallelujah!

Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend thee;
Surely his goodness and mercy here daily attend thee.
Ponder anew what the Almighty can do,
If with his love He befriend thee.

Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore Him!
All that hath life and breath, come now with praises before Him.
Let the "amen" sound from His people again;
Gladly forever adore Him.

Let the "amen" sound from His people again;
Gladly forever adore Him.

Words By Joachim Neander; Additional Chorus By Nathan and Christy Nockels
Arrangement By Eric Gilbert © 2004 Word Music/ASCAP CCLI License No. 413744

Because of Your Love
Verse:
As we come into Your presence we remember every blessing
That You've poured out so freely from above
Lifting gratitude and praises for compassion so amazing Lord,
We've come to give You thanks for all You've done.

Chorus:
Because of Your love, we're forgiven
Because of Your love, our hearts are clean
We lift You up with songs of freedom
Forever we're changed because of Your love

2006 Integrity's Hosanna! Music.
Thankyou Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing) CCLI# 413744

Revelation Song
Worthy is the Lamb Who was slain,
Holy holy is He.
Sing a new song, to Him who sits on
Heaven's mercy seat.

Chorus
Holy holy holy Is the Lord God Almighty,
Who was and is And is to come.
With all creation I singPraise to the King of kings.
You are my ev'rything, And I will adore You.

Clothed in rainbows, of living color
Flashes of lightning, rolls of thunder
Blessing and honor strength and
Glory And power be
To You the only wise King

Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder,
At the mention of Your name.
Jesus Your name is power,Breath and living water,
Such a marv'lous mystery.

Words and Music by Jennie Lee Riddle
Copyright: 2004 Gateway Create Publishing (Admin by Integrity’s Praise! Music) CCLI#413744

Satisfied
All my lifelong I had panted
For a drink from some cool spring.
That I hoped would quench the burning
Of the thirst I felt within.

Chorus:
Hallelujah He has found me.
The One my soul so long has craved
Jesus satisfies my longings.
Thro' His blood I now am saved.

Feeding on the filth around me
Till my strength was almost gone.
Longed my soul for something better
Only still to hunger on.

Poor I was and sought for riches
Something that would satisfy.
But the dust I gathered 'round me
Only mocked my soul's sad cry.

Well of water ever springing
Bread of life so rich and free.
Untold wealth that never faileth
My Redeemer is to me.

Clara Teare Williams / Ralph E. Hudson
http://www.songtouch.com/ © Public Domain CCLI License No. 413744

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Praise Him all creatures here below.
Praise Him above, ye heavenly hosts.
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.

Words and Music By Thomas Ken and Louis Bourgeois © Public Domain
Arrangement by: Matt Redman Passion Hymns CCLI License No. 413744

My Lips Will Praise You
Verse
My lips will praise You for You are holy
My voice will ever rise before Your throne
My heart will love You for You are lovely
And You have called meTo become Your own

Chorus:
I am Your own And I will worship You alone
I am Your ownI am Your child
I am Your own And I will worship at Your throne
I am Your ownAnd I will love You

Words & Music by: Twila Paris
1998 Ariose Music & Mountain Spring Music (Admin EMI Christian Music Publishing) CCLI#413744

Imix May 24 2009

2009-06-29T13:42:00.001-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on the May 24th, 2009:
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=318635216

Lyrics May 17 2009

2009-06-29T13:29:00.004-04:00

O God Our Help In Ages Past
Verse 1
O God our help in ages past
Our hope for years to come
Our shelter from the stormy blast
And our eternal home

Verse 2
Under the shadow of Thy throne
Still may we dwell secure
Sufficient is Thine arm alone
And our defense is sure

Chorus
O God You areYou are our help
You are our helper To all generations
You will beForever and everOur shield
And our eternal hope
You are the ancient of daysAnd worthy of our praise
You are the ancient of daysAnd worthy of our praise

Verse 3
O God our help in ages past
Our hope for years to come
Our shelter from the stormy blast
And our eternal home

Verse 4
O God our help in ages past
Our hope for years to come
Be Thou our guide
While life shall lastAnd our eternal home
You are the ancient of daysAnd worthy of our praise
You are the ancient of daysAnd worthy of our praise
You are the ancient of daysAnd worthy of our praise

Words & Music: Isaac Watts, Tommy Walker,
William Croft 1998 Coulos Publishing (Maranatha! Music (Admon by Music Servcies) CCLI#413744

Only A God Like You
For the praises of man,
I will never, ever stand.
For the kingdoms of this world
I'll never give my heart away
Or shout my praise.

My allegiance and devotion,
My heart's desire and all emotion,
Go to serve the One who
died upon that tree.

Only a God like You
Could be worthy of my praise
and all my hope and faith.
To only a King of all Kings
Do I bow my knee and sing,
Give my everything.

To only my Maker,my Father, my Savior,
Redeemer, Restorer,Rebuilder, Rewarder,
To only a God like You, do I give my praise.

Words & Music: Tommy Walker
2000 Integrity’s Praise! Music Admin.: Integrity’s Music Inc. CCLI#413744

In Christ Alone
In Christ alone my hope is found.
He is my Light, my strength, my song.
This Cornerstone, this solid ground,
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease.
My Comforter, my all in all,
Here in the love of Christ I stand.

In Christ alone who took on flesh,
Fullness of God in helpless Babe.
This gift of love, this righteousness,
Scorned by the ones He came to save.
’Til on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied.
For ev’ry sin on Him was laid
Here in the death of Christ I live.

There in the ground His body lay,
Light of the world by darkness slain.
Then bursting forth in glorious day
Up from the grave He rose again.
And as He stands in victory
Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me.
For I am His and He is mine,
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.

No guilt in life, no fear in death.
This is the power of Christ in me.
From life’s first cry to final breath,
Jesus commands my destiny.
No pow’r of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand.
’Til He returns or calls me home,
Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand.

Words and Music: Keith Getty & Stuart Townend
2001 Thankyou Music Admin: EMI Christian Music Publishing CCLI #413744

Amazing Grace –My Chains Are Gone
Amazing grace how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now I'm found
Was blind but now I see.
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved.
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.

Chorus:
My chains are gone I've been set free.
My God my Savior has ransomed me.
And like a flood His mercy reigns,
Unending love…amazing grace.
The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures.

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine.
But God who called me here below
Will be forever mine.
You are forever mine.

Authors: Chris Tomlin, Edwin Othello, John Newton, John P Rees, Louie Giglio
2006 worshiptogether.com songs (Admin. EMI Christian Music Pub.) sixsteps music

Praise You
Lord, I come to you today,
With a simple prayer to pray.
In everything I do,
Let my life, oh Lord, praise You.

Chorus
Praise You, praise you.
Let my life, praise you.
Praise You, praise you.
Let my life, oh Lord, praise you.Lord, You formed me out of clay.And for your glory I was made.Use this vessel as You choose,Let my life oh Lord, praise You.
Let my life, oh Lord, praise you.

Words & Music by: Elizabeth Goodine & Carol Cymbala
1992 New Spring Publishing CCLI#413744

O God Our Help In Ages Past
Verse 1
O God our help in ages past
Our hope for years to come
Our shelter from the stormy blast
And our eternal home

Verse 2
Under the shadow of Thy throne
Still may we dwell secure
Sufficient is Thine arm alone
And our defense is sure

Chorus
O God You are You are our help
You are our helper To all generations
You will beForever and ever
Our shieldAnd our eternal hope
You are the ancient of days And worthy of our praise
You are the ancient of days And worthy of our praise

Verse 3
O God our help in ages past
Our hope for years to come
Our shelter from the stormy blast
And our eternal home

Verse 4
O God our help in ages past
Our hope for years to come
Be Thou our guide While life shall last
And our eternal home
You are the ancient of daysAnd worthy of our praise
You are the ancient of daysAnd worthy of our praise
You are the ancient of daysAnd worthy of our praise

Words & Music: Isaac Watts, Tommy Walker, William Croft
1998 Coulos Publishing (Maranatha! Music (Admon by Music Servcies) CCLI#413744

Praise You
Lord, I come to you today,
With a simple prayer to pray.
In everything I do,
Let my life, oh Lord, praise You.

Chorus
Praise You, praise you.
Let my life, praise you.
Praise You, praise you.
Let my life, oh Lord, praise you.Lord, You formed me out of clay.And for your glory I was made.Use this vessel as You choose,Let my life oh Lord, praise You.
Let my life, oh Lord, praise you.

Words & Music by: Elizabeth Goodine & Carol Cymbala
1992 New Spring Publishing CCLI#413744

Imix May 17 2009

2009-06-29T13:22:00.001-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on the May 17th, 2009:
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=318635137

Lyrics May 10 2009

2009-06-29T13:15:00.003-04:00

Glory to God
Before the world was made, before you spoke it to be
You were the King of Kings, Yes you were, yes you were
And now you’re reigning still, Enthroned above all things
Angels and saints cry out, We join them as we sing

Chorus:
Glory to God, Glory to God
Glory to God, Forever (2x’s)

Creator god you gave me breath so I could praise
Your great and matchless name, all my days, all my days
So let my whole life be a blazing offering
A life that shouts and sings the greatness of the King

Bridge:
Take my life and let it be
All for you and for your glory
Take my life and let it be yours
We sing… (back to chorus)

2008 Words & Music: Steve Fee
Six Steps BMI Designee/Worship Together Music CCLI#413744

Revelation Song
Worthy is the Lamb Who was slain,
Holy holy is He.
Sing a new song, to Him who sits on
Heaven's mercy seat.

Chorus Holy holy holyIs the Lord God Almighty,Who was and is and is to come.With all creation I singPraise to the King of kings.You are my ev'rything,And I will adore You.
Clothed in rainbows, of living colorFlashes of lightning, rolls of thunderBlessing and honor strength and
Glory And power be
To You the only wise King

Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder,At the mention of Your name.Jesus Your name is power,Breath and living water,Such a marv'lous mystery.

Words and Music by Jennie Lee Riddle
Copyright: 2004 Gateway Create Publishing (Admin by Integrity’s Praise! Music) CCLI#413744

Mighty To Save
Everyone needs compassion.
Love that's never failing,
Let mercy fall on me.
Everyone needs forgiveness,
The kindness of a Savior,
The hope of nations.

Chorus:
Savior, He can move the mountains.
My God is mighty to save. He is mighty to save.
Forever, Author of salvation,
He rose and conquered the grave.
Jesus conquered the grave.
So take me as You find me,
All my fears and failures.
Fill my life again.
I give my life to follow,
Everything I believe in,
Now I surrender.

Bridge:
Shine your light and let the whole world see.
We're singing for the glory of the risen King Jesus.
Shine your light and let the whole world see.
We're singing for the glory of the risen King.

Authors: Ben Fielding/Reuben Morgan
2006 Hillsong Publishing (Admin. In U.S. & Can. by Integrity’s Hosanna! Music CCLI#413744

The Stand
You stood before creation, eternity in Your hand.
You spoke the earth into motion, my soul now to stand.

You stood before my failure, and carried the cross for my shame.
My sin weighed upon Your shoulders, my soul now to stand.

Pre-Chorus:
So what can I say, and what could I do,
But offer this heart O God, completely to You.

So I’ll walk upon salvation, Your spirit alive in me.
This life to declare Your promise, my soul now to stand.

Chorus:
So, I’ll stand
With arms high and heart abandoned.
In awe of the One who gave it all.
I’ll stand
My soul Lord to You surrendered,
All I am is Yours.

So, what can I say, and what could I do.
But offer this heart O God, completely to You.

Words and Music: Joel Houston
2005 HIllsong Publishing (Admin. In U.S. & Canada by Integrity’s Hosanna! Music) CCLI# 413744

Jesus Paid It All
I hear the Savior say,
“Thy strength indeed is small;
Child of weakness, watch and pray,
Find in Me thine all in all.”

Chorus:
Jesus paid it all, All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.

Lord, now indeed I find,
Thy pow’r and Thine alone
Can change the lepers spots and melt the heart of stone.

For nothing good have I;
Whereby Thy grace to claim,
I’ll wash my garments white;
In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb.

O, praise the One who paid my debt
And raised this life up from the dead.
And when before the throne;
I stand in Him complete,"Jesus died my soul to save";
My lips shall still repeat.

Words: Elvina M. Hall , 1865.
Music: John T. Grape Additional Words and Music: Alex Nifong (c)2005 CCLI# 413744

Do Not Be Afraid

2009-06-23T12:27:00.002-04:00

The phrase "Do not be afraid" is the most repeated phrase within the Bible. For many of the things we are afraid of, we barely realize our fear at all. Listening to the sermon Sunday, I realized that a lot of my fear lies in approval; I'm terrified of what will happen if I say or do the wrong thing, and people will look down on me.

Now that's just silly. Plus pretty selfish, if you look at it closely.

God calls us not to be afraid of the trials we face. For as Christians, our lives do not become easier. He calls us not to be afraid if something impossible stands in our way, since as He has proved in the past, nothing is impossible with God. Fear is truly distrusting God's sovereignty, while meanwhile He knows exactly the meaning of every minute of your life.

² When you pass through the waters,
       I will be with you;
       and when you pass through the rivers,
       they will not sweep over you.
       When you walk through the fire,
       you will not be burned;
       the flames will not set you ablaze.

Isaiah 43: 2

Blessings.

Posted by Erinn Waldo

2009-06-05T17:53:00.002-04:00

On slow days like today my senses are always more alive, and I pay close attention to the sights and sounds surrounding me. It's amazing that Someone created every particle of it all and thought it all up, but it's highly believable considering how it works so well together. From a tiny neutron to the currents in the ocean moved by a far away moon, God planned and molded our Earth so beautifully. And we have the ability, if not the time, to admire His creation for its Creator. However, we do not have the capability to understand Him. Unlike the way we can study a molecule, break down its parts and explain their functions, we were not meant to understand God. It's like in Biblical times when the prophets had to look away from God, since seeing Him directly would kill them instantly. Our minds cannot comprehend His greatness, nor were they meant to. Our human minds, with all of our achievements and technology, will never comprehend Him. Like Laura's song, "Indescribable," God is "all powerful, unchangeable" but yet He "sees the depths of my heart and He loves me the same."

Blessings

Posted by Erinn Waldo

Imix May 10 2009

2009-06-04T10:08:00.002-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on the May 10th, 2009:
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=318631374

Fairy Tales

2009-06-03T16:05:00.003-04:00

Think back for a moment. Do you remember Christmas Eve, searching the skies for a streaking sleigh, and seriously watching the Weather Channel for updates on Santa's location? Then do you remember believing in fairy tales, that maybe some time in history there really was someone like Cinderella?

Christ calls us to have a child-like faith. As children, we simply believed what we were told, no questions asked. Sure, back then we were naive and innocent, not having to experience all the struggles we have gone through. But Christ asks us to receive Him without doubt, without question, and without hesitation.

¹³People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. ¹⁴When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. ¹⁵I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." ¹⁶And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.

Mark 10:13-16 (NIV)

Know that Christ is as real as the air you breathe. You might not see Him directly, but His presence is a true reality.

Blessings

Posted by Erinn Waldo

Treasures

2009-06-01T09:32:00.001-04:00

This summer I took a babysitting job involving me vs. four girls plus a Rottweiler puppy. Not exactly the easiest task for an inexperienced babysitter to say the least. Yesterday the smallest child burst into angry tears for a good ten minutes because one of her sisters would not let her play with a large stick that she had found. A stick! I looked her in the eye and said, “It’s a stick. Just a stick. Why is it so important that you would throw a fit and get mad at your sister for it?” Trying to implicate just how silly she was being, her face finally cracked a smile and she forgot about it.

I know there are many things I cling to, making me forget about the ones Christ calls me to love in the shadow of these silly things. It’s not just about getting your priorities straight, since some things are important and good. It’s more about allowing Christ to show you how much more important He is than these, and how everything can be taken away in a second. What do you cling to that keeps you from listening to Him?

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.

-Matthew 6:19-20

Blessings.

Posted by Erinn Waldo

Every Culture

2009-05-31T17:24:00.002-04:00

Today I was reminded that every culture brings some of Him to the table and every culture brings some of them. Here is what I mean.

Germans are different than Americans than Spaniards. Each have a facet that reveals their creator. All of them have sin nature, some of which is uniquely American, German or Spanish in culture. So, when a group gets together cross culturally, both are revealed. Germans cluster with Germans as Americans do with Americans. That tower of Babel thing. It is hard for us to be cross cultural Christian to Christian...but God may be calling us who live in cities to do that first as preparation to cross culture with the non believing world.

It is a small step, but a large one to die to self and think of other cultures as higher than your own.

He humbled Himself for the human race. So we are called to enter into that kind of humility as scary as it may be. Not understanding language, culture, how teenagers act or why old people are the way they are.

Cross cultural.

Cross.

That is what bridges the gap. All take one giant step towards the cross. Male and female, young and old, American and German...thinking of other cultues and generations and sexes as higher than oursleves....Lord help us!!

Here there is no Jew or Greek...slave or free......

Church Architecture

2009-05-28T11:22:00.002-04:00

I have had a great opportunity to see some great churches the last few days. Theology aside, I think it is good for us to look to the past and see what and why things were built. What would cause a man like Michelangelo to lie flat on his back for four years painting our story? How would Raphael have come up with the ideas for frescoes that jump off the wall? Did Berninni really think the altar was worthy of celebrating the sacraments on?

Amazing men with amazing vision to capture the story of the church. I encourage us to look to them, to look through them to Christ and then to search inside ourselves for our contribution to the ages. It is our story and it counts. We are the portrayers now. Blessings

2009-05-27T15:27:00.002-04:00

^{I have a friend that truly walks with Christ. I've seen her angry, and I've seen her gossip and talk badly about someone who annoys her. But I've never met anyone as alive in Christ as she is. Thinking on that, I realized how much "fruit" the Holy Spirit produces through her. There are so many lives she has impacted, including my own. One of the reasons why is that she has no fear in talking about what Christ has done for her. That should make sense for most of us. Why shouldn't we boast that the only perfect man who ever lived died for us individually? But yet why are we so often afraid to speak out?

And don't worry about what you'll say or how you'll say it. The right words will be there; the Spirit of your Father will supply the words.
-Matthew 10:18

But you must not be stubborn. Is there someone you know who needs Him but you're too afraid to speak out? I know that I am most of the time. It is only Christ that can change their life, but you have freedom of choice for a reason, and you must allow Him to move.

Blessings

Posted by Erinn Waldo}

On patience

2009-05-24T10:08:00.002-04:00

I find that when I walk along and enter in to the patience of Christ as He waits for His enemies to be made His footstool, I enjoy the "thing" (whatever it is) when it arrives more. Kind of like waiting for a good meal, or to see someone you love, or the first day of summer vacation.

Our challenge is we often waste our energy struggling to get free of the present. The future will come and it will be good for God's people. He waits. He calls us to let Him be the vine and His Father the vinedresser. We are the branches through which He will bear fruit. He calls us to be like Him and He enables us to do so.

Patience is.

Blessings

A Quiet Voice

2009-05-23T15:59:00.002-04:00

"When life is heavy and hard to take,

go of by yourself. Enter the silence.

Bow in prayer. Don't ask questions."

-Lamentations 3:28-29

I've never really considered not asking questions when I talk to God. I'm always asking, "What should I do?" or "Why did this happen?" and "When will this happen and why hasn't it happened yet?"

Silence itself is incredibly difficult to first discover and then endure in our bustling lives. The whole concept of "locking yourself in the closet and shutting the door" seems ridiculous, with cell phones ringing constantly, your family demanding things from you, your work taking priority over the possibility of silence. And if you actually motivate yourself to sit in that silence, you might be so used to the noise of your life that you find yourself uncomfortable. The few times I've tried this I suddenly realized I was making sound myself, clicking my nails or signing loudly. And my thoughts, first so centered on listening, quickly wandered to what I was planning on doing when this little session of silence was over.

Elijah heard God's voice not in a massive fire, or raging storm, like the people expected, but in a soft, quiet voice. Listen to God today, don't question Him who knows exactly everything He is doing in your life and why.

Blessings

Posted by Erinn Waldo

Cool or Hot?

2009-05-20T08:53:00.002-04:00

The weather in Atlanta is a bit odd. Cool for May. I was ready for the HOT and the COOL came back. Next week it will be here. It can't hold off for ever.

We have a desire for change don't we? When it is COLD we look for HOT. When it is DRY we look for WET. Too much of anything bores us and stirs up a desire for "different."

For students they are ready for OUT. About August, most of them will be looking for IN. Some of us want retirement SOON, when we get there, we will perhaps wish it happened LATER.

I wonder if I could encourage us all to rest in the NOW. Today. It is here. You can taste it and touch it. It can be felt with all of its joy and pain. It may be warm or cool. You may be in or out. Soon may end up being later. But for today you have IAM. That is a good place to be and a great God to be with as you seize the day.

Blessings

2009-05-19T22:08:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow is hump day, as I'm sure you well know. Half way through a long week, just almost to Memorial Day weekend. This may have been the usual week for you, though maybe a little crazy for the kids getting out of school and getting ready for the summer ahead. Maybe something happened this week that has changed your life forever.

²Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. ⁴Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. ⁵If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. ⁶But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.

- James 1:2-6 (NIV)

The Holy Spirit is alive and thriving in you, and if you find yourself under trial, remember to "talk to your heart," and not just listen to it.

Stars

2009-05-17T21:22:00.003-04:00

Lift your eyes and look to the heavens:

Who created all these?

^{He who brings out the starry host one by one,
       and calls them each by name.
       Because of his great power and mighty strength,
       not one of them is missing.}

-Isaiah 40:26 (NIV)

Not one of the great stars of the heavens is unaccounted for because of God's great power and mighty strength. Now if you ask me, we seems pretty unimportant compared to all of the stars in the entire universe. There's a line from a worship song I know that says, "You number the stars and call them all by name, but You love me more than any light You've made."

Randy spoke today about "unnatural peace," and its attainability only through Christ. For you are "fearfully and wonderfully made," and God loves you more than the stars themselves. If you lived like you truly believed you are loved more than the stars, how would you live?

¹⁴"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. ¹⁶In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

-Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV)

You are more light to the world than those stars. As cheesy as that sounds, it's true. Christ living through you gives light to the world, if you allow Him to do so. Don't forget how much you are loved and that you have a part in God's kingdom as you start this week.

Blessings

Posted by Erinn Waldo

2009-05-16T15:08:00.004-04:00

In case you haven't noticed, it has not quit storming in Atlanta since April. Last night the sky kept firing up with diagonal trails of light, holding a promise for yes, more rain. I was thinking about how little I was compared to that storm. The cumulous clouds stretched for miles high, over a planet so big compared to me that I'm practically an atom compared to its immensity. Now what could the Creator of that storm and that sky want to do with someone as tiny as me?

It's in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.

-Ephesians 1:11 (The Message)

God made everything with a place and purpose; even the wicked are included—but for judgment.

- Proverbs 16:14 (The Message)

God has a purpose in your life bigger than yourself. Everything in your life has worked together to fulfill His purpose for you, and He will not forsake you. Do you trust Him that He, even in your darkest hours, has a plan for you? Are you in such a relationship with Him that you feel His gentle voice guiding you?

For nothing is impossible with God.

- Luke 1:37

Blessings.

Posted by Erinn Waldo

2009-05-15T13:06:00.003-04:00

Here are the lyrics for this weekend's service:

O God Our Help in Ages Past

Our God, our help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
Our shelter from the stormy blast,
And our eternal home.
Under the shadow of Thy throne
Thy saints have dwelt secure;
Sufficient is Thine arm alone,
And our defense is sure.
Before the hills in order stood,
Or earth received her frame,
From everlasting Thou art God,
To endless years the same.
Thy Word commands our flesh to dust,
"Return, ye sons of men:"
All nations rose from earth at first,
And turn to earth again.
A thousand ages in Thy sight
Are like an evening gone;
Short as the watch that ends the night
Before the rising sun.
The busy tribes of flesh and blood,
With all their lives and cares,
Are carried downwards by the flood,
And lost in following years.
Time, like an ever rolling stream,
Bears all its sons away;
They fly, forgotten, as a dream
Dies at the opening day.
Like flowery fields the nations stand
Pleased with the morning light;
The flowers beneath the mower’s hand
Lie withering ere ‘tis night.
Our God, our help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
Be Thou our guard while troubles last,
And our eternal home.

Only a God Like You

For the praises of man
I will never ever stand
For the kingdoms of this world
I'll never give my heart away
Oh shout my praise
My allegiance and devotion
My heart's desire and all emotion
Go to serve the Man
Who died upon that tree

Only a God like You
Could be worthy of my praise
And all my hope and faith
To only a King of all kings
Do I bow my knee and sing
Give my everything (x2)
To only my Maker my Father my Savior
Redeemer Restorer Rebuilder Rewarder
To only a God like You
Do I give my praise

Only the God Who left His throne above
He came to live with us
Come to be one of us
To only the one
Who stopped to heal that blind man
Took the time to save that one lost lamb
To only the King Who wore that crown of thorns
So I could wear the crown of life
And to only the One Who conquered sin and death
So we could be set free
So we could stand here and sing

Only a God like You
Only a God like You
Only a God like you (x4)

To only my Maker my Father my Savior
Redeemer Restorer Rebuilder Rewarder
To only a God like You
I give my praise

In Christ Alone

In Christ alone my hope is found;
He is my light, my strength, my song;
This cornerstone, this solid ground,
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My comforter, my all in all—
Here in the love of Christ I stand.

In Christ alone, Who took on flesh,
Fullness of God in helpless babe!
This gift of love and righteousness,
Scorned by the ones He came to save.
Till on that cross as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied;
For ev'ry sin on Him was laid—
Here in the death of Christ I live.

There in the ground His body lay,
Light of the world by darkness slain;
Then bursting forth in glorious day,
Up from the grave He rose again!
And as He stands in victory,
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me;
For I am His and He is mine—
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.

No guilt in life, no fear in death—
This is the pow'r of Christ in me;
From life's first cry to final breath,
Jesus commands my destiny.
No pow'r of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home—
Here in the pow'r of Christ I'll stand.

Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)

Amazing grace how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed

My chains are gone, I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy reigns
Unending love, amazing grace

The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures

My chains are gone, I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy reigns
Unending love, amazing grace

My chains are gone, I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy reigns
Unending love, amazing grace

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God who called me here below
Will be forever mine, will be forever mine
You are forever mine

Blessings

Posted by Erinn Waldo

Small Miracles

2009-05-13T15:57:00.005-04:00

It's strange suddenly realizing the miniscule miracles that God performs in our simple lives. He uses these often, and we frequently fail to recognize them. I experienced one of these myself a few days ago, as small as it might seem. As a college student, a perfect score on one final was necessary to be in the major I believed God was calling me to be in. That in itself was a test, since that 100 looked pretty impossible from where I was standing. I put that hope in God's hands, thinking, "I mean, You can split seas in half, I'll bet you can make this possible."

Did I really believe that? More than likely... not so much.

Sure enough, the enemy seemed to be barging down my door with a triumphant grin when I received a low grade on that final. It seemed to confirm that doubt I initially had: that I expected God to let me down. How often do you doubt God to do those seemingly impossible things in life?

Job was the one guy who got the ultimate test of this. After all his trials, he worshiped God, proclaiming, "You can do anything and everything. Nothing and no one can upset Your plans." (Job 42: 1 The Message)

God did perform so many miraculous things back in biblical times. Are the miracles today a reality to you? Or are they just fairy tales, as much as you say you believe the stories of the Bible? Do you see the miracles He delivers in order for you to praise Him?

A few days after that exam, I received my final class grades. When I was told the only way to get the grade I needed was a perfect exam, I gaped in shock at the letters on the screen. For some bizarre reason, I got the grade I needed to be in the major I wanted, even though my professors deemed it impossible with the grade I received on the final.

Are your eyes open to God's real miracles in your life? Or are you just underestimating Him?

Blessings.

Posted by Erinn Waldo

Lyrics May 03 2009

2009-05-11T16:14:00.003-04:00

Everlasting God
Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord.
Wait upon the Lord.
We will wait upon the Lord.
Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord.
We will wait upon the Lord.
We will wait upon…

Pre-Chorus:
Our God, You reign forever.
Our hope, our strong deliverer.

Chorus:
You are the everlasting God,
The everlasting God,
You do not faint,
You won't grow weary.
You're the defender of the weak,
You comfort those in need,
You lift us up on wings like eagles.
Words and Music by Brenton Brownn & Ken Riley 2005 Thank You Music Admin: EMI Christian Music Pub.
CCLI# 413744

Glory to God
Before the world was made, before you spoke it to be
You were the King of Kings, Yes you were, yes you were
And now you’re reigning still, Enthroned above all things
Angels and saints cry out, We join them as we sing

Chorus:
Glory to God, Glory to God
Glory to God, Forever (2x’s)

Creator god you gave me breath so I could praise
Your great and matchless name, all my days, all my days
So let my whole life be a blazing offering
A life that shouts and sings the greatness of the King

Bridge:
Take my life and let it be
All for you and for your glory
Take my life and let it be yours
We sing… (back to chorus)

2008 Words & Music: Steve Fee Six Steps BMI Designee/Worship Together Music

Hear Us From Heaven
Lord hear our cry,
Come heal our land.
Breathe life into these dry and thirsty souls.
Lord hear our prayer,
Forgive our sin.
And as we call on Your name,
Would You make this a place for Your glory to dwell.

Chorus:
Open the blind eyes,
Unlock the deaf ears,
Come to Your people.
As we draw near,
Hear us from heaven.
Touch our generation,
We are Your people,
Crying out in desperation.

Bridge:
Hear us from heaven.
Hear us from heaven.
Hear us from heaven.

Words and Music By: Jared Anderson, Copyright: 2004 Vertical Worship Songs
Admin: Integrity Music, Inc. CCLI# 413744

Surrender
I’m giving You my heart and all that is within
I lay it all down for the sake of You my King
I’m giving You my dreams,
I’m laying down my rights
I’m giving up my pride for the promise of new life

Chorus:
I surrender all to You All to You
I surrender all to You
All to You

I’m singing You this song
I’m waiting at the cross
And all the world holds dear
I count it all as loss
For the sake of knowing you
The glory of Your Name
Too know the lasting joy
Even sharing in Your pain

Author: Marc James Copyright 2000 Vineyard Songs (UK/Eire) Admin. by Vineyard Music UK

OFFERTORY

Great Is Thy Faithfulness
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father.
There is no shadow of turning with Thee.
Thou changest not;
Thy compassions they fail not.
As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be.

Chorus:
Great is Thy faithfulness, great is Thy faithfulness.
Morning by morning, new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided.
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me.

Summer and winter and springtime and harvest.
Sun moon and stars in their courses above.
Join with all nature in manifold witness.
To Thy great faithfulness mercy and love.
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth.
Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow;
Blessings all mine with ten thousand beside.

Words & Music: Thomas Obediah Chisholm & William Marion Runtan 1923. Renewed 1951 Hope
Publishing Co. CCLI# 413744

Footstool

2009-05-11T12:30:00.002-04:00

I have been doing a bit of study in Hebrews, which led me to Joshua, which led me to.....

You get the idea. You can really get caught up in the Bible and spend a lot of time there. Anyway, Jesus is waiting, sitting next to the Father, for His enemies to be made footstools. Then He will stand up and time as we know will end.

How might His enemies be made footstools? Joshua is helpful to that end. I will let you read the story about feet of God's people being placed on the necks of kings. We are called to participate in the making of footstools. It is an aggressive war we are in. We are called to be bold and courageous and to lead out for the King.

Now before you color me a "hawk" let me remind you our war is not against flesh and blood but powers and principalities. It is a spiritual thing, BUT it does have tangible points of access.

So what enemy will you help to turn into a footstool today? Which enemy of God needs to have His foot put on it's neck? Is it an idol of your heart? Is it the sex traffic industry? Is it monetary greed? Is it indifference? I am sure you can think of many.

You are here for a reason: He gave you a foot. He will use you to His ends.

He is waiting. He has given us resurrection power. He longs to come again. I pray that we will each see the importance of going forth to be fruitful and multiply and tear down the things of the enemy of God.

One warning: Be wise. Pray. Speak softly. Love. Serve well. Be persistent. Stand.

Those are the weapons of the kingdom. Blessings

Youth Leading

2009-05-08T08:15:00.003-04:00

Our youth worship team will lead us in worship this weekend. They are very good. Technically. Attitudes. Worship Leading. It is refreshing to see young people with a heart for the Lord and yet they know and we know they are sinners in need of a savior.

As we prepared last night we talked about worship and how it is not just singing and I had the real sense that they understood that. RVK has taught them well. So we encourage you to come. We promise the music is not too loud and we believe the Spirit of God will be present.

Blessings

Imix May 03 2009

2009-05-06T09:55:00.001-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on the May 3rd, 2009:

http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=315324320

The Question

2009-05-06T08:13:00.002-04:00

For many years some in the Christian community have used questions to ask those not in the community in order to help them see the beauty of the gospel. "Do you think there is a God?" "Do you think He has a perfect standard?" and the classic, "If you were to die tonight, do you know where you would go?"

I heard someone say recently that perhaps a better question for this generation is, "If you were to live 20 more years, how would you live?"

Maybe that is a good question for those of us who believe the gospel to ask ourselves too.

Some thing to think about.

Gentle Correction

2009-05-05T19:58:00.005-04:00

I have been thinking about gentle correction. No one likes correction except when we can clearly see the benefit. "Help me learn to hit the curveball coach!" When it is unsolicited correction, we tend to recoil or worse. Why is that? I think it is because we do not want to be controlled. We want to do things our way.

How about flipping it around for a second? How do we correct others gently? Not so well. We tend to avoid it, because we think they will recoil or worse, or we come down too hard. It is hard to correct gently.

Our Father does that. All the time. Never too harsh, but always correcting us through the Word and prayer and others. He knows we will recoil and worse but He is not afraid to speak the truth in love. To tell us what we need to hear. To correct us.

So, can I encourage you to ask Him to gently correct you? That is scary, but His loving voice will not be too harsh. Let him guide you and you will hit the curve ball and more. Blessings

Confessional Prayer

2009-05-05T10:43:00.009-04:00

Confessional Prayer

From Valley of Lord, high and holy,

meek and lowly, you have brought me to the valley of vision,
where I live in the depths but see you in the heights;
hemmed in by mountains of sin I behold your glory.
Let me learn by paradox that the way down is the way up,
that to be low is to be high,
that the broken heart is the healed heart,
that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit,
that the repenting soul is the victorious soul,
that to have nothing is to possess all,
that to bear the cross is to wear the crown,
that to give is to receive, that the valley is the place of vision.

Lord, in the daytime stars can be seen from deepest wells,
deepest wells, and the deeper the wells the brighter thy stars shine;
Let me find your light in my darkness,
your life in my death,
that every good work or thought found in me your joy in my sorrow,
your grace in my sin, your riches in my poverty your glory in my valley.

Lyrics August 26th, 2009

2009-05-05T10:43:00.007-04:00

Alleluia (More Thank Worthy)

Chorus:
And we sing Alle Alleluia.
Lifting our hands and dancing for You.
For You are more than more than worthy
Of all the praise that we can give to You.

You are more than worthy Lord
Of the greatest songs we can sing.
You are more than deserving Lord
Of our greatest offering.

You are more than mighty Lord.
You’re our Father, Savior, and King.
You are more than able Lord
To conquer anything.

You are more faithful Lord
You are holy, good and true.
You are more than awesome Lord
So we will shout in praise to You.

Bridge:
We could climb to the highest mountain
Or dive to the deepest sea.
You are worthy no matter where we go
Start of time to eternity.

Words & Music: Sheri Carr 2006 Mercy/Vineyard Publishing (Admin. By Music Services) CCLI#413744

Come Thou Fount

Come Thou fount of every blessing,
tune my heart to sing Thy praise.
Streams of mercy never ceasing,
call for songs of loudest praise.

Teach me some melodious sonnet,
sung by flaming tongues above.
Praise the mount I'm fixed upon it,
mount of Thy redeeming love.

Hitherto Thy love has blest me,
Thou hast bro't me to this place.
And I know Thy hand will bring me,
safely home by Thy good grace.

Jesus sought me when a stranger,
wandering from the fold of God.
He to rescue me from danger,
bo't me with His precious blood.

Oh to grace how great a debtor,
daily I'm constrained to be.
Let Thy goodness like a fetter,
bind my wandering heart to Thee.

Prone to wander Lord I feel it,
prone to leave the God I love.
Here's my heart Lord, take and seal it,
seal it for Thy courts above.

Words & Music: Robert Robinson Public Domain CCLI#413744

From The Inside Out

A thousand times I’ve failed,
still Your mercy remains.
And should I stumble again,
still I’m caught in Your grace.

Everlasting;Your light will shine when all else fails.
Never ending;Your glory goes beyond all fame.

Your will above all else,
my purpose remains.
The art of losing myself,
in bringing You praise.

Everlasting; Your light will shine when all else fades.
Never-ending; Your glory goes beyond all fame.

Bridge:
In my heart in my soul Lord I give You control.
Consume me from the inside out Lord.
Let justice and praise, become my embrace.
To love You from the inside out.

Chorus:
Everlasting; Your light will shine when all else fades.
Never-ending; Your glory goes beyond all fame.
And the cry of my heart, Is to bring You praise..
From the inside out, Lord my soul cries out.

Author: Joel Houston Copyright 2005 Hillsong Publishing (Admin. in USA & Canada by Integrity’s Hosanna! Music) Catalog: Hillsong Publishing Admin.: Integrity Music, Inc. CCLI 413744

Fearless Now

I know You see my cry, You count my tears.
In sleepless nights I know You’re near.

Chorus:
Lord, I choose fearless now to trust in You
Believe Your promises are true
I’m proud to praise the God who saves.

When I feel afraid
You’re my fortress strong on high.
Your love like armor shielding al sides
From storms unkind
I hide in the shadow of Your wing.
Where peace abides
Be anxious oh anxious mind.

You’re the source of hope in this life.
When doubts arise
And worries try to steal the truth with lies
Your sacrifice untold redeemed me
Lord, from Satan’s hold
Be glorified my King, You saved my soul.

I know when the battles come
I will face my fears
But, it’s worth the fight I know You’re here.

Words & Music: Sheri Carr 2007 Mercy/Vineyard Publishing (Admin. by Music Services) CCLI#413744

The Wonderful Cross

When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.
See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down,
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

Chorus:
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross,
Bids me come and die, and find that I may truly live.
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross,
All who gather here by grace draw near and bless Your name.

Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were an offering far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all. (CHORUS)

Words and Music By Jesse Reeves, Chris Tomlin, J.D. Walt and Isaac Watts © 2000 worshiptogether.com songs / Six Steps Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing) CCLI License No. 413744

Imix April 26 2009

2009-05-05T10:43:00.001-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on April 26th, 2009:

http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=314952290

Imix April 12 2009

2009-05-05T10:41:00.000-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on April 12th, 2009:

http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=314952291

Prom

2009-05-02T23:21:00.002-04:00

I escaped just in time. Four teenage girls and three moms were descending on my house at one o’clock last Saturday afternoon. My excuse? “I need to go and get ready for worship service.”

“But you usually do not leave until three o’clock.”

“Well...er...uh...I gotta go!” and I was out the door.

That is a bit of an embellishment, but what would you have done men? Seven women getting ready for the prom. It would take until five o’clock to “do” all the hair dos. Curl, iron, spray, pin, comb, spray, giggle, talk, talk all at the same time, laugh, roll, unroll, re-do, and undo until the do was done. Then dresses , shoes, earrings, purses, clips and jewelry would be added. Then pictures of doing the "dos" taken. A man has no place here.

As I drove to church I thought, “Thank God I am out of there!” And then this, “Every girl wants to go to the prom.”

Deep down, everyone wants to go to the prom, even men. We all want to belong, to be a part of the crowd. We don’t need to stand out necessarily, but we don’t want to stick out. We want to be known. We want to be known, loved and invited. In high school, that is a tall order. In college, it is no easy task. In life, it sometimes feels like the impossible dream.

What is it about us humans that makes us want to be “in?” God created us in His image. He is the blessed triune God, and He put the desire for community in our hearts. We long for it, and if we don’t get the real thing we will settle for something less.

Maybe you are feeling lonely today. Perhaps you are thinking that no one loves you and that you have not been invited. For some of you , I am sure the mention of prom brings back bad memories. Can I tell you that God loves you, and He says you can come as you are to His party? In fact, He will provide fine clothes for you to wear. He has made for you a cloak of righteousness that is adorned with reminders of His deep love for you. He will welcome you as you enter in today. He wants you to be part of His grand community. Don’t believe the lie that you are not welcome. You are.

Imix April 09 2009 (Maundy Thursday Service)

2009-05-02T19:05:00.001-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on April 9th, 2009:

http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=314952201

Imix April 05 2009

2009-05-02T19:03:00.001-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on April 5th, 2009:

http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=311635027

Moving to intermediate

2009-04-28T08:40:00.002-04:00

I was reminded yesterday that to move from beginning Christianity to intermediate the road sign says, "Suffering ahead."

That is a hard concept for us in America. We do all we can to avoid suffering. I am not advocating self flagellation, I am thinking that we are called to enter into the joy of Jesus which is a joy undergirded by the fact that we have died to self. When we do that, when we lay down the privilege we have and go at risk we are able to lean wholly on Him and that is where true joy is found. A twinge of momentary suffering is needed to make the leap.

So can I encourage you to think about moving down the road? When many travel together, it makes the journey better. Blessings

Lyrics April 19th 2009

2009-04-22T11:42:00.002-04:00

April 18/19, 2009 Songs

O Worship The King
O worship the King, all glorious above,
And gratefully sing His wonderful love:
Our Shield and Defender, the Ancient of Days,
Pavilioned in splendor, and girded with praise.

O tell of His might, and sing of His grace,
Whose robe is the light, Whose canopy space.
His chariots of wrath, the deep thunderclouds form,
And dark is His path on the wings of the storm.

Chorus:
You alone are the matchless King,
To You alone be all majesty.
Your glorious wonders what tongue can recite?
You breathe in the air, You shine in the light.

O measureless might, ineffable love,
While angels delight to worship above.
Thy mercies, how tender, how firm to the end:
Our Maker, Defender, Redeemer and Friend.

Words and Music By Robert Grant, William Kethe, and Johann Michael Haydn Arrangement and Additional Chorus By Chris Tomlin © 2004 worshiptogether.com/
Six Steps Music/ASCAP/ Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing CCLI License No. 413744

None But Jesus
In the quiet in the stillnessI know that You are God.In the secret of Your presenceI know there I am restored.When You call I won't refuseEach new day again I'll choose.

Chorus
There is no one else for me, none but Jesus.
Crucified to set me free, now I live to bring Him praise.

In the chaos in confusion, I know You're sovereign still.
In the moment of my weakness, You give me grace to do Your will.
When You call I won't delay, this my song through all my days.Bridge:All my delight is in You Lord.All of my hope, all of my strengthAll my delight is in You Lord, forevermore.

Copyright 2005 Hillsong Publishing (Admin. in U.S. & Canada by Integrity's Hosanna! Music) CCLI#413744

All Creatures Of Our God And King
All creatures of our God and King;
Lift up your voice and with us sing.
Alleluia, alleluia!
Thou burning sun with golden beam;
Thou silver moon with softer gleam.
O praise Him, O praise Him,
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

Thou rushing wind that art so strong;
Ye clouds that sail in heaven along.
O, praise Him; alleluia!
Thou rising morn in praise rejoice;
Ye lights of evening find a voice.
O, praise Him; O praise Him.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Let all things their Creator bless;
And worship Him in humbleness.
O, praise Him; alleluia!
Praise, praise, the Father praise the Son.
And praise the Spirit Three in One.
O, praise Him; O, praise Him.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

CCLI Song No.1503 © Public Domain St. Francis of Assisi / William Henry Draper
All rights Reserved. CCLI License No. 413744

Amazing Grace –My Chains Are Gone
Amazing grace how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now I'm found
Was blind but now I see.
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved.
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.

Chorus:
My chains are gone I've been set free.
My God my Savior has ransomed me.
And like a flood His mercy reigns,
Unending love…amazing grace.
The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures.

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine.
But God who called me here below
Will be forever mine.
You are forever mine.

Authors: Chris Tomlin, Edwin Othello, John Newton, John P Rees, Louie Giglio
2006 worshiptogether.com songs (Admin. EMI Christian Music Pub.) sixsteps music

Lyrics April 12th 2009

2009-04-22T11:23:00.001-04:00

Crown Him With Many Crowns
Chorus:
Crown Him Lord of all.

Crown Him with many crowns, the Lamb upon His throne:
Hark! How the heav’nly anthem drowns all music but its own!
Awake, my soul and sing, of Him who died for thee,
And hail Him as the matchless King through all eternity.

Crown Him the Lord of life, who triumphed o’er the grave,
Who rose victorious from the strife of those He came to save.
His glories now we sing, who died and rose on high,
Who died eternal life to bring and lives that death may die.

To thee be endless praise, for Thou for us hast died:
Be Thou, O Lord, through endless days adored and magnified.

Words and Music By George J. Elvey, Godfrey Thring, and Matthew Bridges © Public Domain CCLI# 413744

(SEE LAURA FOR EXACT VERSES)
Christ The Lord Is Risen Today
Christ the Lord is ris'n today, Alleluia!
Sons of men and angels say: Alleluia!
Raise your joys and triumphs high! Alleluia!
Sing ye heav'ns and earth reply: Alleluia!

Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!
Where O death is now thy sting? Alleluia!
Dying once He all doth save, Alleluia!
Where thy victory O grave? Alleluia!

Words By Charles WesleyMusic From Lyra Davidica, 1708 © Public Domain CCLI # 413744

Glory to God
Before the world was made, before you spoke it to be
You were the King of Kings, Yes you were, yes you were
And now you’re reigning still, Enthroned above all things
Angels and saints cry out, We join them as we sing

Chorus:
Glory to God, Glory to God
Glory to God, Forever (2x’s)

Creator god you gave me breath so I could praise
Your great and matchless name, all my days, all my days
So let my whole life be a blazing offering
A life that shouts and sings the greatness of the King

Bridge:
Take my life and let it be
All for you and for your glory
Take my life and let it be yours
We sing… (back to chorus)

2008 Words & Music: Steve Fee Six Steps BMI Designee/Worship Together Music CCLI# 413744

Worthy Is The Lamb
Thank You for the cross, Lord,
Thank You for the price You paid;
Bearing all my sin and shame,
In love You came
And gave amazing grace.

Thank You for this love, Lord,
Thank You for the nail-pierced hands;
Washed me in Your cleansing flow,
Now all I know: Your forgiveness and embrace.

Worthy is the Lamb seated on the throne;
Crown You now with many crowns,
You reign victorious.
High and lifted up, Jesus Son of God,
The darling of heaven crucified;
Worthy is the Lamb, worthy is the Lamb.

Words and Music By Darlene Zschech © 2000 Hillsong Publishing (Admin. in U.S. & Canada by Integrity's
Hosanna! Music) CCLI # 413744

You Gave
Chorus 1
You gave You gave Your life away
You gave You gave Your life away
You gave You gave Your life away for me

Your grace has broken ev'ry chain
My sins are gone my debt's been paid
You gave You gave Your life away for me
For me

Verse 1
You spoke and worlds were formed
You breathed and life was born
You knew that one day You would come
So far from Heaven's throne
Clothed in human form
You showed the world the Father's love

Verse 2
You lived a sinless life
Yet You were crucified
You bought our freedom on the cross
Forsaken for our sin
You died and rose again
Jesus You are the Lamb of God

BRIDGE:
How glorious is Your love
If I could sing forever it's not enough (to say)
How glorious is Your loave
If I could sing forever it's not enough (to say)
It's not enough

Authors: Kathryn Scott & Paul Baloche 2007 Intergrity’s Hosanna! Music CCLI# 413744

In Christ Alone
In Christ alone my hope is found.
He is my Light, my strength, my song.
This Cornerstone, this solid ground,
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease.
My Comforter, my all in all,
Here in the love of Christ I stand.

In Christ alone who took on flesh,
Fullness of God in helpless Babe.
This gift of love, this righteousness,
Scorned by the ones He came to save.
’Til on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied.
For ev’ry sin on Him was laid
Here in the death of Christ I live.

There in the ground His body lay,
Light of the world by darkness slain.
Then bursting forth in glorious day
Up from the grave He rose again.
And as He stands in victory
Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me.
For I am His and He is mine,
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.

No guilt in life, no fear in death.
This is the power of Christ in me.
From life’s first cry to final breath,
Jesus commands my destiny.
No pow’r of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand.
’Til He returns or calls me home,
Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand.

Words and Music: Keith Getty & Stuart Townend
2001 Thankyou Music Admin: EMI Christian Music Publishing CCLI #413744

Jesus v Ashton Kutcher on Twitter

2009-04-17T10:11:00.006-04:00

You may have read that Mr Kutcher challenged CNN to see who could be the first to have 1 million followers on Twitter. He won. I wonder what he will do with them? Does he feel a sense of joy to have that many followers? Does he feel a sense of responsibility to say important things with each 140 character tweet? Will he feel their pain, answer their questions and comfort them during times of crisis? Will he get tired of tweeting and stop, leaving 1 million people hanging?

I don't know about Mr Kutcher. I do know some thing about Jesus. He has millions of followers. He blesses them. He never stops messaging us. He is always concerned about how we are doing.

Now lets look at Mr Kutcher's 1 million followers. How many will stop following him soon? How many will forget to look at his latest tweet? How many will stop responding? I don't know.

I do know something about Jesus' followers. We tend to stop following. We tend to forget to look at what he says. We tend to stop responding. So we are a bit like Mr Kutcher's followers. The only difference is we have a leader who will not let us go. He will continue to message us and he will continue to do a work in our hearts so that we can see Him as the One worth following.

Blessings

By the way, you can follow me on twitter now: Rschlichting

I am hoping for 50 followers!!

Why I am blogging less

2009-04-16T12:06:00.004-04:00

I feel I owe a bit of explanation as my posts have really trailed off. I am a bit embarrassed! Simply put, the last month I have really been focusing on some other things and have had a hard time sitting to write. I have been working on a book (Yes Matt I am close!) and I have been doing some writing for magazines.

I have had some GREAT thoughts for posts but I have not had time to make them intelligible.

So, today IS a day I can sit and think a bit!!

The story that comes to mind is of Susan Boyle. She dreamed a dream. Click here.

It just goes to show you that people without guile are groovy and that God will be glorified by unlikely and sometimes frumpy people. That would include me.

Blessings.

Imix March 29 2009

2009-04-07T11:52:00.001-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on March 29th, 2009:

http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=311597292

Imix March 22 2009

2009-04-07T11:50:00.000-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on March 22nd, 2009:

http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=307302678

Imix March 15 2009

2009-04-07T11:49:00.001-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on March 15th, 2009:

http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=311597101

Don't Touch the Queen!!

2009-04-02T10:24:00.004-04:00

Well you may have seen it on the news. Michelle Obama, with no malice, touched the queen. She did not mean to do it. It was an unconscious mistake. Horrors!

The rules are very clear. "Don't touch the Queen!" If she extends her hand you may lightly hold it and shake softly. Don't go sticking your hand out. She will let you know if you can touch her hand.

The history of this is rich and deep and may seem silly. She is just human. Yes, but she is the queen. She transcends the G20 and this current president or that one. She was not elected. It is.

He is the King. He is holy. Don't even try to touch the ark of His covenant. The good news is that He will extend a hand to you, and you are called to grasp it with honor and respect. Respect and honor.

He is holy. He is the King. He was not elected. He transcends politicians and earthly queens and kings. Even Queen Elizabeth would tell you that.

Blessings!

A break

2009-04-01T19:40:00.002-04:00

When was the last time you had one? A break.

Next week many will take "Spring Break." Can you get a week off? A day? I don't know if you can afford it, but maybe you can take a day. Maybe next Friday. When I was young it seemed to be a holiday. Good Friday.

A day to take a break. To relax. To reflect. To know that He did the work. It is finished. A day to rejoice. To de-stress.

Maybe you have to work. Maybe you could let calls go to VMX next Friday and answer the urgent ones only. That could give you time to reflect. Maybe you could spend part of the day reading the story. Maybe you could just give thanks. I am sure if you gove it some thought you will come up with something.

Just some thoughts as we head to the week of weeks. Blessings

Grace v Law

2009-03-30T12:41:00.002-04:00

Imagine the scene. The judge sits high on the bench in his flowing black robes as the two parties enter in.

“What is the charge?” he asks.

Grace: The Law continues to hang around and I understand that I was to come and do away with him!

Law: Your Honor, You have said that I am “delightful”, how can I be banished?

Grace: Your grace is sufficient, for all Lord. You said that.

Law: But the law of the Lord is perfect! You wrote that Your Honor!

Judge: Stop! Stop! I think we have a failure to communicate here. Jesus is the fulfillment of the law, and the whole law is summed up in the command to love one another. A commandment, by the way, is kind of like a law.

Law: Told you so!

Grace: But…..

Judge: But, the law cannot be kept, and punishment must be given for those who break it. I gave that punishment to Jesus, so that grace might abound to sinners; even you two.

Grace: So grace is triumphant!

Judge: No, IAM. The law is from ME it is good, it just can’t save anyone. The punishment for breaking it is from ME. The payment is by ME. Grace is from ME and those who begin to delight in the law, after they are saved by grace, have been given that impulse by ME. When the break the law, the run to ME and I give them grace.

Grace:

Law:

Judge: I hoped you would say that. Now get out of here, have some fun and try to keep the rules. They really are good and helpful.

Easter Shopping

2009-03-30T12:40:00.001-04:00

Fewer people are shopping these days. The economy is really in a rut. Even when sale prices are posted, I get the sense that people are holding on to what they have. It is hard to argue with that. It is good sometimes to hold on to what you have.

On many levels it makes sense. Who knows how bad things will get? When I was growing up, we did not have a lot of new clothes or toys. Sometimes we would get a few new things for the first day of school, but by and large we handed down hand-me-downs. No, this is not a “When I was young we had to walk to school both ways, up hill in the snow!” letter. We didn’t. We were safe and we had a home and clothes and we rode the bus. We did not have a lot, but we had enough.

Around Easter each year we would get new clothes. We would dress our best as we came to Easter service. Many people would, and as a result, as children we knew it was different than other Sundays. It was the Sunday He rose.

We would wear those clothes going forward on the Sundays after Easter until the next Easter came and we would get new Sunday clothes again.

So, am I advocating spending some money on a new dress? Why not? If you can afford something new, maybe Easter Sunday is the day to wear it. If not, maybe you can shine up what you do have. Why? Why ‘dress up’ a bit for Easter? Well He did. He put on the new glorified body and stepped out for His friends to see.

He also came with a new robe for us; the robe of His righteousness. He gave it to us to wear forever.

Easter is just a week away. Can I encourage you to prepare well to rejoice? Remember the robe you wear and don’t be afraid, if you can afford it, to celebrate. Blessings!

PS: Maybe there is someone you know who needs new clothes, literally. Help them if you can. Maybe there is someone who needs the robe that He has to offer. Invite them to come next week. It will be glorious!

The List

2009-03-30T12:38:00.003-04:00

Here are two good rules for living:

Never go to the grocery store when you are hungry.

Never go to the grocery store without a list.

I am the worst offender. When my wife says, “Can we stop at the store on our way home?” she knows she does it at great risk to our pocketbook. I think she secretly prefers I wait in the car.

As I follow her into the store, my “gotta have” meter rises. She works her list and my eyes wander. “Black currant jam! We have not had that in a while!” “Wheat thins! Wheetabix! Chips! Ice Cream!” As we work our way through the store, I attempt to (a) sneak something into the cart or (b) justify why we need it. Turns out we have had black currant jam at home for months and we do not need any ice cream. I got away with the Wheat Thins. I think it was out of pity.

Lists are important. They help keep us focused on what we need and what we do not need. I still remember it like it was yesterday. They were just names on a sheet of paper. We put their names on the sheet of paper and brought it out each week. We prayed for them. The paper held no magic. It was just a reminder of the commitment we had made to pray. We prayed for the men on the list and we did not pray for other things. Maybe we needed more prayer for our selves, but we focused on the list. We never asked for some things that we could have during the time of prayer, but we got some of them anyway. It did not matter. The list mattered because it represented people’s souls. God did a work as we prayed. Not for all on the list, but for some.

Perhaps you have a day timer or iPhone or PDA. They are great for making lists. Can we encourage you to jot down a few names? Jot down names of people you love, people for whom you would like a better life. They could be names of co-workers or maybe even names of relatives. That could be quite a list. Then when you are in that quiet moment you won't have to wonder what to pray for. You will have your list.

What about the “going to store when you are hungry” part? Well there is where we get a bit paradoxical. Eat a little something before you go to the store but it is fine to come hungry to prayer. Worship Well.

Imix March 8th, 2009

2009-03-11T17:41:00.001-04:00

Click on the Link Below to view the songs for weekend worship on March 8th, 2009:

http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=307302678

Are we soldiers?

2009-03-09T09:41:00.002-04:00

I don't tend to use military word pictures much because, perhaps wrongly, I wonder how they connect with half the population. This one did with me so much, that I hope it does with you because it speaks to us raising our eyes and seeing that the way we will love is by knowing we are in a battle and being in the battle.

From We Were Soldiers Once...and Young by Harold Moore and Joe Galloway.

“In thy faint slumbers I by thee have watched, and heard thee murmur tales of iron wars” Shakespeare Henry IV

“We went to war because our country asked us to go, because our new President ordered us to go, but more importantly because we saw it as our duty to go. That is one kind of love.

Another, and far more transcendent love, came to us unbidden on the battlefields, as it does on every battlefield in every war man has ever fought.

We discovered, in that hellish place where death was our constant companion, that we loved each other. We killed for each other, we died for each other and we wept for each other. And in time we came to love each other as brothers.

In battle, our world shrank to the man on our left and the man on our right and....the enemy all around. We held each other's lives in our hands and we learned to share our fears, our hopes, our dreams as readily as we shared what little else good came our way.

We were John Kennedy's young stalwarts of the 1960's. He told the world that Americans would go anywhere, pay any price, bear any burden in the defense of freedom. We were the down payment on that costly contract, but the man who signed it was not there when we fulfilled his promise. He waited for us on a hill in Arlington National Cemetery, and in time, by the thousands, we came to fill those slopes with our white marble markers.

Among us were old veterans and young enlistees. The majority were draftees, 19- and 20-year-old boys summoned from all across America by their local Selective Service Boards.”

We too have been drafted, all types, our Leader made a promise, and went to a place harder and better than Arlington. We will join Him. We are not the first down payment on that contract. We are the current payment though. Look to your left and to your right. If you are doing war with that person, in time you will come to love them. The mission is part of the process by which we learn to love one another. Blessings