The Birth: Failure & Recovery

Several years ago while reading Eugene Peterson's translation of Luke 2 from The Message something leaped off the page. He wrote:

"This child marks both the failure and the recovery of many in Israel, A figure misunderstood and contradicted---the pain of a sword-thrust through you---But the rejection will force honesty, as God reveals who they really are."

It occurred to me that his birth represented a colossal failure----on our part. Because of our sin, God chose to send Jesus. Through our failure, His birth would prove to be the very recovery every one of us would need for our terminal sin-filled condition. The recovery is not about you and me. He initiated our recovery through the incarnation ("God with skin on"). The recovery is about God and His intervention, or as Peterson puts it, His "holy interruption .

How did we ever get so sidetracked to think the recovery is about us? Maybe it's because we are the subjects of sin. But the recovery and healing from sin has absolutely nothing to do with us. It is only because of His grace, mercy, love and glory. The message of Advent is simple: We failed and God initiated our recovery through Jesus.
I've yet to meet a single human being who wasn't in recovery from sin, or needed to be. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! The gift of healing. Praise be to God.

I'm taking a blog break until January 2nd. See you then. Spend time with family and friends, take deep breaths and inhale the wonder and gift of life. Have a blessed Christmas and Happy New Year!

Labor of Love

Andrew Peterson's "Labor of Love" sung by Jill Phillips at the Ryman Auditorum with scenes from "The Nativity". Praise be to God for His indescribable gift! Speakers up and enjoy!

Celtic Woman / Chloe Agnew - ''O Holy Night''

Enjoy this sacred Christmas classic from Celtic Woman on You Tube.

An Open Advent Letter to Jesus

Dear Jesus,
As your birthday approaches I wanted to write this letter and thank you for all you’ve done for me, and those who call you, Lord.

Recently while pondering the timeless story of your birth and the season of Advent, it occurred to me that so many times in my life I’ve squandered the gift you gave us. You gave us yourself. You gave us the gift of relationship. And you told us to live in relationship with others as you have with us. Actually you said we’re to love others as you have loved us.

Lord, I must confess that while I’ve tried to do this, I have not been as loving to some others as you have always been to me. I have squandered relationship opportunities due to a busy schedule. I’ve walked past some relationship conversations because I was, “in a hurry”; “had something else to do”; or simply because it did not agree with my personal agenda.

You gave us the gift of reconciliation and I haven’t done such a great job in this area either. Quite often I’ve let the wounds of conflict fester, been absorbed in my own wounds and failed to consider the “one another’s” you said were so very important. Part of reconciliation involves seeking and granting forgiveness. In the gospels you said these come together and can’t be separated, yet somehow in my humanity I have failed to exercise them simultaneously often waiting on someone else to make the first move. Your parable of the “unmerciful servant” reminds us that these can become the roots of bitterness and that forgiveness isn’t about a number, but about our attitude. Your words from the cross, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do,” haunt me. How could I be so unforgiving to those who have done far less to me when you have been so forgiving in all I’ve done to you?

You spoke up for the weak, weary, abused, oppressed, and you attended to sinners. I remember how you told the church leaders of your day that the sick, not healthy people need a physician. Lord, thank you for attending to my sickness of sin. My I do likewise to others.

Lord, the story you told about the two men who came to pray hits me hard. One was dressed in all his finery, said the right things and looked good on the outside, but was hollow and infected with insincerity. He was so concerned with his position, title and appearance. Yet the other man, the poor man, stood before you naked, and pleaded for your mercy on his sinful soul. Help me to be more like that man.

Lord, there’s a man on my heart this Christmas. Several years ago we had a deep divide. Conflict ripped both our hearts. He wants nothing to do with me. I have accepted his desire. But it bothers me. It has for years. I still love this man and miss his friendship. He and I both know deep within that you want, expect and deserve more from us in this regard. Lord, bless him this season. Bless his marriage, his family, his dreams and desires. Protect his family and health. Forgive any unkind thought or deed I have committed in his regard. Pour out your blessings on him spiritually, financially, physically and emotionally. May his house ring with the joy of Advent.

And for those I’ve hurt in past experiences, whether perceived or real, forgive me. May my heart only be filled with your desires for them.
As a minister and PK I can recall my fair share of personal pain and hurt from churches and Christians. However, I know it would serve no purpose, would not exalt you, nor edify your church to do so. I realize more than ever that we are all flawed and you still love EVERY ONE of us despite our flaws. Fill me with that kind of love this season, especially for those whose names and memory are associated more with pain, or criticism than joy.

For the saints and sinners in the churches I’ve been privileged to serve over the years: Memorial Baptist in Frankfort, KY; SHBC in Lexington, KY; FBC in Easley, SC; FBC in Leesburg, FL; and Mosaic, bless each and every one. Along with every Christ-centered church in our community here in South Carolina, fill their seats/pews, may their offering plates, parking lots and baptistries be overflowing! Bless their respective shepherds, spouses and children. Help Mosaic and her leaders to continue to support, pray for, and model unconditional love to the churches in our area regardless of our small and human differences. And thank you for the overwhelming moments of joy I recall in each of the churches where I’ve served. There are too many moments of joy and needful lessons learned to recall in comparison to any past wrong (perceived or real), or wound.

Thank you Lord, Jesus for the gift of relationship. Thank you for my salvation and for thinking more of us than yourself. Thank you for coming despite knowing what would come 33 years later at the hands of humans. Thank you for a manger, a common food trough. Thank you for shepherds and Magi who proclaimed to the world that your coming is for ALL people regardless of race, birthplace, economic, or social status. Thank you Jesus, thank you! May we/I be faithful stewards of your precious gift of relationship!

Mark Lowry's Mary Did You Know

Still a classic from the man who wrote it. Read Luke 1:26-2:20 and watch this timeless treasure.

Twelve Days of Christmas At an All-Time High

Were you one of those adventurous shoppers camping out overnight for lines at Best Buy, Walmart or Circuit City on Thanksgiving night trying to beat the Black Friday rush, or perhaps you got up before the paper boy delivered papers to hit the pavement in search of those Christmas treasures? Me I was sound asleep. Regardless when you started shopping, or if you have even started, it's doubtful any of us are trying to secure the gifts in the age old Christmas classic, "The Twelve Days of Christmas". In case you are, better pull out your wallet and credit cards.

According to the AP the price of the gifts listed in the famous Christmas carol have risen to over $78,000! In case you are wondering there are a total of 364 items in the song. 12 drummers drumming, etc., repeated for 12 days can get pricey. According to the annual PNC Christmas Price Index the cost is up 4% from last year's $75,122.

PNC calculates that buying each item in the song for just one day would cost $19,507. This year's minimum wage increase hiked the price of the "eight maids a milking" from $41 to $47, but according to Jim Dunigan of PNC Wealth Management the maids hadn't had a pay increase since 1997. The "five golden rings" still tops the list at $395.

Perhaps our quest for the "perfect" gift for someone special has neglected an even more costly and treasured gift-----the gift of self! The gift of presence (time) seems to be far more valuable and costly today than ever before. Yet, most of us spend a great deal of that time shopping to give things to people we dearly love, but spend less meaningful time with them once the gift has been opened. Perhaps we ought to consider giving fewer gifts and more of ourselves to those we love this Christmas. Call it cliche', trite, traditional, or old fashioned, but I really don't need another shirt, pair of slippers or an electronic gadget that has one more remote to add to the basket of them I'm still figuring out how to use. However, I would love to just spend an afternoon with my wife, kids, parents, siblings and other family who I rarely get to see. Now that is a most treasured gift!

Amazing that God gave first and all without Best Buy, Walmart, Circuit City, or any other retailer. And He gave the gift of presence. His presence! His Son, Jesus Christ! You can't top that with a Wii, or shiny new car. As we march through the stores this holiday season, may we all pause to reflect, remember, anticipate and look forward to God's gift of Advent, Jesus Christ! Okay, so where in the world do you go to find seven swans?

For more on this Christmas carol and others go to: http://www.carols.org.uk/the_twelve_days_of_christmas.htm

In ALL Things Give Thanks

Give Thanks
Eat
Be Merry
Celebrate God's incredible blessings and gifts
Give Thanks
Laugh
Play Board Games
Tickle the Children
Play a Family Football Game
Give Thanks
Take a Nap, heck take two
Remember Those Who are Working
Hug a child
Shop if you must
Give Thanks
Recall Old Family Stories
Put the latest crisis or pain on hold
Give Thanks
Help with the dishes
Watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Call an old friend
Give Thanks
Pray for a soldier
Pray for the people of Bangladesh
Get up early with a family member for coffee
Give Thanks
Take a Walk
Put up Christmas decorations
Go Hunting
Give Thanks
Save Room for Pie
Watch some college football
Give Thanks
If you need background on the Puritans or that famous first feast go to:

http://www.christianitytoday.com/history/newsletter/2001/nov16.html

"Father, thank you for a life partner, children, family, friends and a church that have enriched my life beyond measure. Thank you for the hard or difficult times we've had this year and the reminder of your never-ending presence regardless of those circumstances. For those who've lost loved ones in war, tragedy or by illness this year bring your comfort and peace. Strengthen the hands and heart of your church for many are tired and weary from battling the pains and problems of life. Remind all of us that in this season of gratitude Advent dawns and therein lies our hope. In fact the hope of the world. Come Lord Jesus, come quickly!"

May you and yours have a blessed Thanksgiving.

The Golden Compass Internet Buzz

The screen version of the much hyped children's book "The Golden Compass" hits theatres in early December. The book is the film version from atheist author Philip Pullman's children's book. If you haven't heard about the movie or received one of the endless mass email warnings about it you've either got great Spam protection, or you've been living in a cave on a remote island.

Last week alone, I got 7 forwarded email warnings about the movie promoting "atheism", etc. I haven't read the book but I have read several reviews from educators and critics. One thing to consider is the significant number of great literary classics that were written by people who were troubled and very confused personally. The list of great authors with serious personal issues or agendas is too great to recite, but we could name a few from Capote to Hemingway, to Edgar Allen Poe, to Tennesee Williams.

I'm not going to endorse the movie, or say stay away. I would simply counsel parents to read several critiques, pray about it, perhaps read the book and then make an informed decision on whether you and your children should invest the money to go see the movie.

Here's an excerpt from the Christianity Today movie corner.

"We haven't seen The Golden Compass, and won't for a few weeks. But, for now, we can at least say this: Yes, Pullman is an atheist. Yes, his trilogy features the death of God. And yes, he hates the Chronicles of Narnia "with a deep and bitter passion," he has said, "with their view of childhood as a golden age from which sexuality and adulthood are falling away." He's called Narnia "one of the most ugly and poisonous things" he's ever read.

We can also say this: Pullman's books are award-winning and well-written, and those who have read them—yes, even Christians—say he spins quite an entertaining, and page-turning, fantasy yarn. One can certainly recognize the quality of Pullman's work without agreeing with his worldview."

You can read the rest of the CT movie review at: http://www.christianitytoday.com/lyris/movies/archives/11-09-2007.html

Before you send forward me one of the mass email warnings on the movie verified by Snopes.com, etc, remember that Christianity Today's movie website's mission is to "help readers make discerning choices for themselves—not to advise one way or another about watching a particular movie. That's your call." I'm with them. I can't tell you what to see or what to avoid. That's the decision every potential movie goer and parent must make on their own. So do your homework.

If you need more go to these links for other reviews and comments on the movie starring Nicole Kidman:

http://live.hollywoodjesus.com/?p=1098 or join the discussion forum on the movie and book at:
http://forums.crosswalk.com/The_Golden_Compass/m_2808727/mpage_1/tm.htm#1

As for me, I think I'll take a pass on the Golden Compass and catch the cable re-runs and DVD rentals of some great Christmas movies like:

It's a Wonderful Life
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
The Nativity Story (2006)
Polar Express
The Nutcracker
The Fourth Wise Man
How The Grinch Stole Christmas and
A Christmas Carol (1951)

Okay, where's the popcorn?

They Deserve Better

According to figures released today by the Alliance to End Homelessness, 1 in 4 homeless persons are war veterans! Veterans may only be 11% of the total U.S. population, but they comprise 25% of America's homeless. And a growing number of them are from the most recent wars.

According to a review last year of the nearly 39,000 vets who participated in the VA's homeless programs:

4.9% served before the Viet Nam War.
42.5% served during the Viet Nam War.
41.9% served after Vietnam and before the Persian Gulf War.
10.6% served after the Persian Gulf war began, including vets of the Iraq and Afghan wars.
(Source Dept. of Veteran Affairs)

Out of uniform and on the streets these brave men and women who served their country valiantly and voluntarily are in great need and the statistics seem to indicate it's only going to get worse. Pennsylvania's director of veterans affairs for Lancaster County, Daniel Tooth said in an AP interview: "We're going to be having a tsunami of them eventually because the mental health toll from this war is enormous."

Our veterans deserve better! They deserve better healthcare, greater mental or emotional health attention and a reasonable amount of time and assistance in returning to society upon their re-entry to the States. Not to mention affordable housing. My goodness, if we can close so many of our military facilities, surely we can designate a few of them as re-entry transition and support centers for those who return without family, mental health issues, or no specific job skill. We owe them a debt of gratitude that cannot be repaid, but we need to begin making a downpayment by insuring that not one single vet ends up sleeping on concrete. If we can slowly resurrect New Orleans, and provide reasonable housing through Habitat, surely we can house, feed and cloth those who insured our freedom to pursue a career, education, home ownership, family, etc.

Leave It to God!

Prescript: About eight years ago I shuttled a very popular professor and prophetic theologian (he's now retired from teaching, but is still publishing books and speaking around the country) from the Nashville airport to our annual state denominational meeting. He is still one of my heroes in ministry and life. The trip was long enough to allow me to pick his brain and ask him some tough questions. This was not our first time together. Most of my questions were couched in getting his opinion or thoughts on subjects that related directly to a major move we were praying through at the time. One of my questions: "Knowing what you know now at this point in your ministry and life, what would you do differently if you were starting over as a young pastor?" He didn't hesitate. He quickly said (paraphrased), "You know I've spent a lot of time criticizing the always positive message of _________________(he named a prominent pastor who had been on national television for years). But he's probably helped more people than I have. Many of us have criticized him and his approach, but I think I would probably preach more positive messages."

I was not prepared for this answer from one of America's most prophetic voices at the time. Here was a man who had said some really tough things in his books, speaking and preaching. I mean painful truths said in love. They were dangerously honest and penetrating too. They were usually hard to hear, or read. And yet he was looking back at age 60, and reconsidering the tone or nature of his message. While I didn't immediately resonate with his comments, it wasn't until I survived a tough place in ministry that I realized what he was trying to say. I'm still working on it too. Now fast forward to 2007.

I have resisted the temptation to use this blog to join the bandwagon of credible critics of best-selling author and popular mega-church pastor, Joel Osteen. He has plenty of critics whose theology and writings I respect. This blog is not going to be a "Joel Bashing" rant as some might expect or dare say even enjoy. If you need to read what some respected Christian thinkers (and even Osteen himself) are saying there are plenty of places online to go. Several links for those articles, interviews and commentary are provided below in no particular order or preference.

Back to my car ride with Tony Campolo. My church membership, ministry of presence, tithes, offerings and resources are not parked at Osteen's church. He is accountable to God and his church, elders and overseers. I am not his judge. I do have an opinion, but I'd really like to let scripture argue my position. Did he say scripture? In Acts 5 the Apostles are persecuted and brought before the Sanhedrin. Peter stood up firmly for Jesus and they were ready to put Peter and the others to death. But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, who was highly respected by all of them asked for the apostles to be put outside while he addressed the group:

"Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men. Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing. After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered. Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God."

This side of that first century interrogation we now know the truth. Peter and the Apostles were from God and the real deal. The rest of the Bible tells their story. So in regard to Joel Osteen and other ministries (many of them called "Prosperity Gospel") I am going to leave it to God. Some feel the need to be the theological gatekeepers and determine who is right, who is wrong, who is authentic, etc. I'm not smart enough to be in that group. I do know that when I spend more time criticizing and analyzing someone else's ministry, I tend to spend less time questioning and examining my own ministry and motives. Theologian Michael Horton has even gone so far as to say Osteen is a biblical heretic. Go to this link for a list of Dr. Horton's essays on Osteen: http://www.wscal.edu/faculty/wscwritings/horton.osteen.php

Horton may be right, but I'm not sure it's his call. Horton is a brilliant, respected theologian with big time credentials. But did his public comments aired on CBS edify the body and exalt the Savior? Have my private conversations on this done so? Ouch! Many of these brilliant critics would say it is indeed their duty and responsibility to "guard" the flock and defend the Scriptures.

Me, I've got enough to keep me busy with my own flock, and my own shortcomings of which there are many. So with Acts 5:34-39, in mind, I leave Joel Osteen to God. I do have my own thoughts and opinions on his theology and approach but to publicly air them would not serve to edify the church and exalt our Savior. So Joel you have my prayers and I will treat you the way I want to be treated and the way Jesus counsels us to treat others, with unconditional love. I'm even going to pray that your passion for Christ and God's Word will increase and that the Gospel will pierce hardened and even apathetic hearts through your ministry.

Sites Related to Joel Osteen and His Critics:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/10/11/60minutes/main3358652.shtml
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=di9-PebV634
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukcV-xtU3hc http://www.internetmonk.com/archive/reactions-to-the-60-minutes-joel-osteen-piece http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IuiUOapK1w
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MfwYU2pmWYQ

So Young, Gone Too Soon

Carolina campuses are a bit more somber and silent this week in light of the weekend tragedy that claimed the lives of seven college students (6 from USC, 1 from Clemson) who perished in a fire at a beach house in North Carolina. Investigators are still combing the ashes for clues and the cause. Mourners, parents and emergency personnel can take solace in the fact that it could've been much worse, were it not for the six students who survived.

We owe these families our prayers. Hail to both state universities for putting aside their athletic differences and holding prayer vigils and mourning each death regardless of team color or school. Yes, this goes way beyond a simple collegiate rivalry, but you wouldn't believe how deep that rivalry runs on an average day. How very cool that it doesn't run deeper than our appreciation for the sacredness of life, all lives, regardless of origin, skin color, religious beliefs and college preference! News reports earlier this week noted that students at USC placed an orange and white flower arrangement next to the six USC colored arrangements in a makeshift memorial. And Clemson students held a prayer vigil recognizing all seven victims on Halloween when the rest of America's campuses were no doubt filled with candy, parties and costumes.

God's grace, comfort and love to each and every family who suffered loss. And clarity, understanding and His presence to those who survived and can't make sense out of any of it. Soul poet Rich Mullins, who died way too young in a car wreck several years ago penned the words of my heart in this circumstance in a song entitled, "Be With You":

Chorus 1
And when my body lies in the ruins
Of the lies that nearly ruined me
Will You pick up the pieces
That were pure and true
And breathe Your life into them
And set them free
And when You start the world over again from scratch
Will You make me anew out of the stuff that lasts
Sutff that's purer than gold is
Clearer than glass could ever be
And can I be with You
Can I be with You

Verse 1
Ev'rybody each and all
We're gonna die eventually
It's no more or less our faults
Than it is our destiny
So now Lord I come to You
Asking only for Your grace
You know what I'm puttin' myself through
All those empty dreams I chased

Verse 2
And ev'rybody all and each
From the day that we are born
We have to learn to walk
Beneath those mercies
By which we're drawn
And now we wrestle in the dark
With these angels that we can't see
We will move on although the scars
O Lord move inside

Chorus 2
And when my body lies in the ruins
Of the lies that nearly ruined me
Will You pick up the pieces
That were pure and true
And breathe Your life into them
And set them free
And when You blast this cosmos to kingdom come
When those jagged-edged mountains I love are gone
When the sky is crossed with the tears
Of a thousand falling suns
As they crash into the sea
Can I be with You
Can I be with You

Authors Justin Peters, Rich Mullins
Copyright 1987 BMG Songs, Inc. (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing)|(Admin. by BMG Music Publishing)
River Oaks Music Company (a div. of EMI Christian Music Publishing)

Father, may they be with you! May those of us who are left behind be grateful for one more breath, one more smile, one more day of life in your creation. May their deaths remind us of how sacred and precious life is, and that it's all gift.

Have I Made a Difference?

Prescript: This is not the melancholy ramblings of a life of regret. It’s simply an honest reflection. Some will not like it, some will be challenged and a few may even take delight in the personal shortcomings and admissions. I hope those are fewer than greater.

This is probably the most difficult question any human can answer, let alone a Christ-follower. It’s hard to look in the mirror, or flip through the memory bank of your mind and honestly answer this penetrating question. It’s similar to asking “Have I pleased you Lord with my life?” Or, “How do you know you’ve followed the will of God in your calling?”

Such questions are good for the heart, mind and soul. They force us to look deep within and question our motives, intent and desire. My current life verse from Psalm 37:4 (“Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.”) is along the same lines. Most of us would like to interpret it as saying that God is going to give us whatever we desire---far from it! Read it again. It says that we must “delight” ourselves in the Lord and then He will give us the desires of our hearts. In other words, put God at the top in all things and He will give us desires that are His because we are focused on Him. It means that God will change our hearts from selfish desires to Godly desires because we are putting Him at the head of life.

So am I avoiding the question? Yeah because I’m not sure I like my answer. If I’m going to be gut level honest (something that makes a lot of people real nervous, especially uptight Christians who need “perfect” answers from their leaders, or refuse to risk being vulnerable under any circumstances), I have to say: “Not much.”

I know I've made a difference in the lives of some friends and family as they have mine. But have I touched some lives and made a difference for some people, churches, and organizations I’ve been privileged to serve? I’m sure I’ve made a small contribution along the way, but if I’m going to be real honest, I’d have to say I’ve really fallen short of what God wanted, expected and intended for my life and ministry.

I think far too long I focused on producing faithful church members and denominational loyalists, instead of devoted Christ-followers. I know I often worried more about what people thought or were saying about my leadership than fulfilling God’s will. Many times I interpreted venomous, divisive, hyper-critical comments about my leadership, sermons, teaching, etc., instead of realizing that the comments were more about the person making them than me personally, even if they didn’t know it. Not to mention the constant battle those in pastoral ministry have dealing with the all too frequent, unrealistic demands and expectations placed upon them by church members or the community. Many times I’ve fought when I should’ve loved. I’ve criticized when I should have comforted. I’ve avoided people when I should have confronted. If I’m really honest I have to say there are times I’ve asked myself: “Lord, will they still like me if I do this?” Instead of asking, “Oh Father, are you pleased with what I’m doing?”

Making a difference for Christ is often interpreted or answered by pastoral types through church statistics. Wrong answer! Jesus only had 12 followers. No mega-congregation, extremely limited earthly resources, no home, and no parade of large buildings to validate His leadership or legacy. He left an empty, borrowed tomb. Yet He changed the world and nearly every life He encountered. Keep in mind some walked away from His message and many refused to follow Him. He made a big difference, so much so that peoples lives are still being affected by His teaching and ministry over 2,000 years after His physical death.

Remember Jesus’ encounter with the Rich Young Ruler in Matt. 19? Right after the man walked away Peter speaks for many of us when he says:

27Peter answered him, "We have left everything to follow you! What then will there be for us?"
I think there have been many times as a Christ-follower I’ve been like Peter in reaction to the man who was unwilling to submit to the authority of Christ. And then I’m reminded of Jesus’ answer to Peter’s question and the rest of the disciples:

28Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. 30But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.

So what has this transparent self-examination done for me? Convinced me of the need to make an even greater attempt to live out Psalm 37:4 and focus solely on delighting in Him! May it be so, may it be so!

Postscript:
While my kids aren’t perfect, I do believe they are one earthly example of whether or not I’ve made a difference. Of all the things my wife and I have attempted and I’ve screwed up, it’s one thing we got right. Thank you Father for our kids and the people they are becoming!

Inside Heaven

"Inside the Actors Studio" has become a cult hit. The Bravo television show is seen in 80 million American homes! Since 1994 the show has featured interviews with over 200 actors, directors, producers and Hollywood celebrities. Host and show creator, James Lipton has an uncanny ability to get celebrities to share their inner most thoughts, opionions and experiences on a wide variety of topics. Lipton is the founding dean of the prestigious, Actors Studio Drama School of Pace University, which he created thirteen years ago as vice-president of the Actors Studio. It has become the largest graduate drama school in America. The popular television show is part of a class for graduate students.

If you've never watched the show it features the distinguished and dapper dressed Lipton sitting behind a table with a stack of cards. A celebrity guest is seated across from him in a chair that faces Lipton and a live audience. Above them hangs a giant screen where film or show clips are shown throughout the interview from the guest's various works in film, television or the arts. Among the 200+ guests has been Jack Lemmon, Halle Barry, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Steven Spielberg, Jodie Foster, Harrison Ford, Jane Fonda, Sally Field and many others. His guest lineup reads like a "Who's Who" of the film and entertainment industry.

At the end of each interview Lipton asks a set of 10 questions. The ten questions by journalist Bernard Pivot that Lipton asks every guest are:

What is your favorite word?
What is your least favorite word?
What turns you on [creatively, spiritually or emotionally]?
What turns you off?
What sound or noise do you love?
What sound or noise do you hate?
What is your favorite curse word?
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
What profession would you not like to do?
If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?

Lipton was recently interviewed on NBC's Today Show concerning his new book. When asked the final question about heaven he replied: "You see James you were wrong, I do exist, but I'm going to let you in anyway."

As Christ-followers we believe heaven and God are very real so it's not a stretch to believe, but have you ever thought about what you would like to hear God say upon your arrival? Perhaps God will say something like this: "Welcome home. You're here because my Son loved you so much that He paid the price to make this possible for you (1 John 3:16; John 14:6). He's been busy preparing this place as He promised (John 14:2). I've had you and this day in mind since I laid out the very foundations of the earth (2 Tim. 2:19). Nothing can take this away from you, not even your imperfection and the times you disobeyed me and messed up (John 10:28). My grace has made this possible (Eph. 2:8). Welcome home!"

None of us knows for sure what God is going to say. But I think we might be so overcome with gratitude and His shining presence that we might just say, "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God almighty!" What would you like to hear God say?

The Great Pumpkin

Did you know Halloween is a rapidly becoming as popular as Christmas in terms of total retail sales? Think about it. Costumes, candy, those crazy decorations, and even Halloween themed clothing is a cash cow for retailers. Halloween was an epic event during my childhood. Much to the chagrin of legalistic, fundamental Christians it did not cause me to worship Satan or engage in witchcraft as an adult. However, I think the annual network showing of the animated "It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown" was nearly idoltrous in sheer viewing numbers.

My memories of Halloween are tied to pumpkins, bobbing for apples, fall festivals, hayrides, going to the apple orchard, changing leaves, wild costumes, bonfires and candy. Yes tons of candy. And did I forget to mention church? I'm sure that did not play well in some uptight quarters. Rewind: And did I forget to mention church?

Yes, I actually remember the members of our church gathering to host a haunted house and putting on one of the coolest Halloween festivals. No one thought to call it "Fall Festival" or "Trunk or Treat", or some other alternative named cooked up by some well-meaning, but misguided people with way too much time on their hands. Since I'm remembering this from childhood, it was larger than life. The child in me remembers Christ-followers simply having fun, laughing and carrying on. It showed me at an early age that the church could not only be the source of spiritual inspiration, but also a source of great joy.

If memory serves me right the baseball playoffs and World Series were long over by Halloween back then. We could only wish that were so today. Football is the sport of choice for the season. They say (still don't know who "they" is) the pumpkin patches are lighter this year due to the drought. Produce experts say we'd be better off going to a produce market or grocery to purchase the annual giant orange ball.

As I've grown older my passion for Halloween has waned greatly and shifted to a passion for Fall foliage. It appears the drought is affecting that one this year too. Enjoy the cool nights, crisp mornings and what little color show the trees put on for us this year. May it remind all of us that we ARE NOT in charge. God is changing things in His creation with the annual change of seasons. Take it all in friends and redeem the time. Thank you Lord for the changing weather, colorful trees, and the opportunity to simply have fun! Our world needs more of it. So pass the candy!

Did You Know; Shift Happens - Globalization; Information Age

Go With God My Little Redhead!

My Mom recently had surgery. As my Dad wheeled her out of the recovery room and we stood in a hospital hallway with my sister, family and the student pastor from their church, I couldn't help but think to myself: "This woman has given so much of her life to helping others." She has been a faithful spouse and pastoral partner for 50+ years; a mother who raised two children and buried an infant daughter; an RN who spent most of her nursing career in the hard charging world of ER and ICU; a leader who has devoted her whole life to ministry, missions, studying and teaching God's Word and serving through His church; and someone who has not only offered wise counsel, but also held the hands of hundreds of hurting women throughout the years who simply needed a shoulder to cry on, godly wisdom, encouragment, authentic prayer, accountability and unconditional love.

I don't think she has the slightest idea how many lives she has affected for the cause of Christ, through all of these years of faithful service. If she did she wouldn't be Mom!

I can't recall how many times she saved me from myself, but allowed me to be me while giving me the time, space and unconditional love that enabled me to experience God's grace and calling. I'm sure she would've loved for that to have been sooner rather than later, but she simply trusted me to God through prayer.

Mom, I pray you will get rest, refreshment and renewal as you recover. I ask God to bring you complete healing and I thank Him for bringing you through surgery. Praise to Him for a successful surgery. All glory and accolades to Him. Thank you for your faithfulness all these years. Thanks for your passion for the hurting, broken and wounded. Thanks for being strong at times when I know you felt like caving. Thanks for always asking, "What is God saying about this in your prayers and study of His Word?" Thank you for modeling authentic faith filled with humor and transparency instead of the often misguided and unrealistic expectations churches can place upon its ministers, spouses and families. Now hurry up and get better. Your church needs you and so does "Nurse Bill". Fare thee well my Irish redhead! Love, Monty

Honest Conflicts in the Body

There's an interesting discussion taking place with John Piper's church in regard to a Moody Bible Institute ministry student seeking membership. The discussion is about the church's policy on Believer's Baptism in regard to the mode of baptism (their's is immersion only) that is required for membership. The young man, Jeremy sought believer's baptism several years ago by "pouring" instead of immersion in a different church.

Recent blogs posted on Piper's Desiring God website and Jeremy's blog describe the situation in loving detail. Regardless of my personal opinion on the matter, the level of maturity and love shown by both even in disagreement is refreshing. We can have honest differences in the body of Christ without tearing each other apart. You can read both perspectives on their respective links below.

The blogs can be found at:
http://www.glorytogodalone.com/blog/?p=7 and http://www.desiringgod.org/Blog/ (See "Rejection Actually Hurts")

On one side it's refreshing to see such a candid discussion taking place in love, but on the other it is almost sad that such a peripheral matter (baptism is not essential for salvation) would bog the church (small "c") and Christ-follower's down when the culture is already looking at us with suspect eyes and having cynical conversations. Hear me, I am a huge believer and supporter of the autonomy of the local church. I totally affirm Dr. Piper and Bethlehem's biblical right to govern their own affairs. It is a matter for their elders, leadership and members to decide, not me. However, given the national exposure and scope of their ministry it does impact the greater body of Christ, which affects all of us to some degree.

It seems no matter how far we come as the body of Christ, we continue to get hung up on Believer's baptism and communion (Lord's Supper). These two, ancient and precious, biblically-rooted church ordinances or acts (you may prefer "sacraments") not only declare the glory of God but His salvific passion and pursuit of humanity. Unfortunately what should be unifying, symbolic acts of obedience become portraits of division to non-Christian's. How long will it be before we (the church) truly agree with the Apostle Paul and practice a theology of "one Lord, one faith and one baptism"? It would seem the culture, the church, a non-baptized thief in Paradise and God almighty are waiting for our answer to be put into practice.

An Unhealthy Appetite for Debt

While financial debt seems to have become an accepted way of life, our nation may just be digging a hole so deep that succeeding generations will not be able to climb out. Our consumer and material obsessed culture is sending a strong message to emerging generations telling them it's okay to go into debt to satisfy your personal appetite regardless of the terms. Personal debt is at an all-time high and climbing. Individuals and families seem to be following the lead of our government. According to the Bloomberg Report:

May 30 (Bloomberg) -- For the moment, at least, financing the U.S. budget deficit may be getting less arduous as foreign investors now own a record 80 percent of the Treasury notes due in three to 10 years. Not since the 19th century have foreigners held so much American debt, said Alan Taylor, a professor of economic history at the University of California, Davis. International investors own $672 billion of the $835.4 billion Treasuries due in three to 10 years, according to research by Lawrence Dyer, a New York- based strategist at HSBC Securities USA Inc., the investment banking arm of HBSC Holdings Plc in London.

The national consumer debt average is somewhere around $8,000 per family. This does not include home mortgages. According to MSN.com , 43% of U.S. families spend more than they earn. In 2004, consumers owed $2-trillion in debt and $750-billion (Billion with a "B") was attributed to credit card debt.

Half of all U.S. households with debt report having difficulty making their minimum monthly payments. If the average debt is $8,000 per family and you make the minimum payment at 18% interest, it will take 25 years and 7 months to pay off the debt. And it will amount to $15,000 in interest being paid. See Kim Khan's article on MSN.com at:{ http://moneycentral.msn.com/content/SavingandDebt/P70581.asp}

Popular Christian financial counselor and speaker Dave Ramsey ("Financial Peace," "The Total Money Makeover") is a strong advocate of people cutting up their credit cards and using "cash only" for purchases. Ramsey also advocates having six-months of salary socked away in a "rainy day" fund. Given the latest consumer debt statistics it would seem that the majority of Americans can't even sock away a month's salary. Someone has said, "If your outgo exceeds your income, your upkeep could be your downfall."

Financial ministry leader Dick Towner {http://www.goodsenseministry.com/} says Christ-followers should be generous with whatever we have and that we should save a first part of whatever receive financially. He provides a useful rule of thumb regarding debt: "I'll never incure debt on something that will decrease in value, or that I would use up as I'm still paying for it."

Christ-followers should take the lead on fiscal responsibility. From the moment of creation in Genesis, God entrusted us to be good stewards of the resources He created. Sadly, most Christ-followers are as addicted to having things and stuff as the rest of our culture. We've got to do a better job of modeling financial responsibility. The future of the U.S. economy hangs in the balance, not to mention the future of the church as fewer and fewer give financially to their church but continue to rack up debt that often exceeds their level of income. We cannot allow future generations to think that amassing personal debt at the expense of cheating God out of a portion of the total He has given each of us is acceptable and pleasing to God.

What a challenge the Apostle Paul makes in Romans 13: "Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law." More love, less debt, sounds like a plan that could change a culture and reach many for Christ!

A Woman of Deep Faith Gives Back to God

Oral Lee Brown is a CNN Hero who should inspire and challenge all of us. Especially those who have had the privilege of receiving a college education. Born into the absolute poverty of rural Mississippi, she wanted to give something back to God. Her faith inspired her to give "something back to God" for all He had done for her.

After moving to the west coast while raising three children, she attended night classes and earned her degree from the University of San Francisco University. She eventually bought her own real estate firm. In 1987 she made a profound commitment while earning only $45,000 per year. She committed to put $10,000 a year aside and started a foundation with the goal of providing a college education for the entire first grade class at Oakland's Brookfield Elementary School. She saved $10,000 per year for 12 years!

Blanche Evans recently wrote about Oral Lee Brown in this month's Realty Times news publication:

Seventeen years ago, Brown found a hungry little girl who was skipping school. Her heart was touched, and she realized it doesn't have to be that way. The key to preventing and rising above poverty, drug dealing, and other societal
blights is in education, so Brown went to Brookfield Elementary, a local
elementary school in a troubled area of East Oakland. Stunned and delighted
school officials saw her make the first-graders there a promise - "Stay in school, and I will see you through college."

Brown was born in poverty and saw herself through college. To help others, she established the Oral Lee Brown Foundation which helps at-risk students stay motivated to stay in school. Today, the foundation manages about $375,000 annually in contributions. She pays for their college tuition through annual fundraising banquets, held each August, and through donations. Last year, the first wave of those first-graders graduated from colleges across the United States, and Brown was there in person or in spirit for each ceremony. Of the 23 students in that original class, 19 went on to college, and most are still enrolled. Brown hopes that number grows each year... This May, four more of "her" students graduated.

To see and hear more about this amazing woman go to: http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/specials/2007/05/14/natpkg.heroes.oral.lee.brown.cnn

What an inspiration to those of us who have been given much!

The Killing, uh Easy Chair

In his new book, When the Game Is Over It All Goes Back in the Box (Zondervan, 2007), John Ortberg writes about what it takes to really win in the game of life. Ortberg believes that how we live determines what happens when the game is over. He encourages readers to arrange their lives around eternal objectives instead of earthly possessions that are here today and gone tomorrow.

He encourages us to get in the game, but not the one played by most of America. He believes one particular piece of household furniture prevents more of us from engaging life with hands-on action than any other---the recliner or "EZ chair". Throw in a television remote and you've got a prescription for a life of disengagement. Ortberg warns about the dangers of life in the EZ chair:

What's so dangerous about this chair is not the things you do while you're in it. It's the things you don't do, the relationships you never deepen, the people in need you never serve---never even see. It's the great prayers you never pray, noble thoughts you never think, adventures you never take. It the races you never run and the battles you never fight, the laughs you don't laugh and the tears you don't weep. You were made for something more than life in the chair. It may be the most dangerous object in your house. (p. 138)

Ortberg is right. I'm guilty too. We unplug from life in the EZ chair. Sometimes we need to do that, but when the EZ chair becomes the dominant piece of furniture in our life (our focus) it can lead to apathy, laziness and a general disinterest in the meaningful things of life. Who needs to worry about terrorism claiming our country when most of us are killing the ingenuity, passion and forces of creativity all through our inactivity in a single chair?

"EZ Chair Terrorism," is a bigger threat to our spiritual, mental, emotional and physical health than Osama. It's hard to engage the culture and pursue Jesus' call to be life-changers from a reclined position. I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (John 10:10b)

Get out of the chair!

According to a recently released study by the Associated Press and MTV, what makes America's youth happy may surprise you. The extensive study (1,200+ people, ages 13-24, 100+ questions) found that contrary to demographic stereotypes and urban legend, sex, drugs, and rock n' roll weren't the top sources of happiness! The study results are surprising and
hopeful.

Spending time with family was the top answer as the source for happiness among the nation's youth! Almost 75% say that their relationship with parents makes them happy! Not surprising, listening to music was a popular source of happiness, but only 13% said chatting online mad them "very happy". 54% said school grades make them "very to somewhat happy." Parents need to seize this opportunity and increase their time spent with children. They really do want to spend time with us.

There's good news for churches in the study. According to the AP: "Close to half say religion and spirituality are very important. And more than half say they believe there is a higher power that has an influence over things that make them happy. Beyond religion, simply belonging to an organized religious group makes people happier." While much of this "spirituality" may not be biblically rooted, the openness to spiritual matters means they are willing to engage in conversation and interested in community. If we're willing to listen, exercise patience and build intentional relationships with emerging generations, we will most likely find a receptivity that will be greater than if the church simply views students as a doorway to increase evangelism statistics.

The study also uncovered some concerns. Youth aren't satisfied with the way things are in the world. Fifty-eight percent report they are "somewhat to very unhappy" with current world conditions. Also, black and Hispanic respondents tended to be less happy than whites along economic lines. And many, particularly middle class youth say they feel stressed, females more than males. We still have a long way to go in the areas of race, economic and gender equality while trying to provide a stable world. What are we handing off to succeeding generations? It's a ball many of them don't want to carry and something we need to address now instead of passing the buck.

The study leaves me hopeful, but guarded. America's youth need to know that we really do care about their worldview and we are willing to make the necessary changes to right past wrongs or injustices so the world is a better place. They need to know we value and respect what they have to say about the world and other issues. Respect is one of the doorways to responsibility. It's time we listened more so we can learn more and accept the responsibility we have in the world we are leaving succeeding generations. May God give us wisdom and courage!

Lessons Learned 200+ Miles at Sea

1. Having zero cell phone capability is probably the most therapeutic thing you can do. I plan to seriously fast from mine once a week from now on. Ran into a guy on the cruise who paid his cell phone provider in Philadelphia to get international-unlimited coverage on his cell phone while on the ship. Overheard him talking work stuff and never saw him without that thing attached to his ear. Kind of defeats the purpose of "getting away" doesn't it?

2. While I had email capability, I refused to pay the ridiculous incremental Internet access rates charged aboard ship. Plus, I made the choice NOT to carry my laptop on board so if I was tempted I'd have to physically go to the appropriate deck and use one of their computers. I hated the 120 messages of pure junk I had to go through upon my return to land, but it was so nice to be unplugged. Makes me continue to worry and be embarrassed at how co-dependent most Americans are on technology. Me included.

3. Everyone ought to do something they've never done before at least once. Like mountain climbing, or kayaking. We had never taken a cruise. Our son's college graduation in Florida coincided with our cruise, so it was perfect timing and a rare chance for the four of us to be alone. Yes, we will do it again.

4. I eat too much. Americans eat too much. The food we waste is outrageous. Yes, the meals were scrumptous, but the amount of food that went to waste is mind-blowing.

5. Considerable time alone with family without all the distractions and daily noise in life is absolutely priceless. Thank you God for that gift.

6. If I have to choose between Freeport and Nassau, it's a no-brainer. Nothing personal to the folks in Freeport, but I'll be near the Straw Market and Senor' Frogs, or Hard Rock in Nassau. And while the ship coffee was okay, three days without Starbucks made the one in Nassau the perfect first stop off the ship!

7. If Christ-followers served non-Christians the way cruise line crews serve passengers our churches would be filled. Heck, if Christ-followers would just serve each other with the amount of respect, attention to detail and thoughtfulness of the crew it would cause a revolution.

8. The onboard library was great, but it doesn't come close to grabbing a great book and enjoying the sunshine and the open sea from a deck chair.

9. We had calm seas, but how in the world did Noah do it for 40 days without Dramamine or Bonine?

10. Bottled water is the way to go, but it sure loads down your suitcase, ha!

Hail the Graduating Osprey!

On Friday, August 10, 2007, William Casey Carter will receive his Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of North Florida in Jacksonville. Go Ospreys! To say we're proud of our son's accomplishment would be an understatement. We can't wait to watch him to take that walk and accept his hard earned diploma.

Engineering is tough! My Bachelor's degree is in communications but trust me, Casey's college studies have been more like my graduate studies. Like his maternal grandfather before him, Casey accepted and rose to the challenge of his chosen discipline with passion, commitment and a hard work ethic. Casey has worked his entire four years of college. Unlike many college students today, he has not had a "blank check" or an unlimited "Visa" card provided by Mom and Dad. He worked and kept a full load of classes just like we did in college and graduate school. Even if we had been able to pay for all of his college and living expenses we would've never done it. Learning to be fiscally responsible while in college (if not before) is great preparation for life in the real world. Too many kids graduate today from college and remain financially and emotionally dependent upon their parents producing a generation who is irresponsible, unrealistic, co-dependent, ungrateful and unable to make it on their own. Aside from his faith development, part of our role as parents has been to help Casey become a healthy, responsible and productive citizen. Casey will always have our support, but deep down inside he knows that he is able to stand on his own by the grace of God. Before he was born, God had His design on Casey's DNA. He has been fashioned and formed through the love of God.

To say we are proud of our children doesn't begin to cover it. No, we have never said our children are perfect. Far from it. We weren't those kind of parents and we still aren't. We know our children's warts, shortcomings and failings just as we know our own. We have always believed that both of our children (Casey and Sarah) have been gifted, called and prepared by God for whatever He has in store for them.

It's been a very difficult final semester for Casey. There have been some valley's and desert wanderings, but he has emerged stronger and wiser. He has learned valuable life lessons while at UNF. We have watched him grow in so many ways. We are so very pleased with Casey and the person he's become. We can't wait to see what God has in store for his future. We love you Chubs, always have and always will! Yes, you and Sarah are special to us because you are gifts from God. Love, Mom and Dad (Jeremiah 29:11; Psalm 139)

P.S. The graduation gift and family vacation is going to be absolutely awesome!

In Our Hearts, Thoughts and Prayers

Minneapolis you are in our prayers!

Spiritual Mortgage Foreclosures

Stay with me, I promise a spiritual application to these disturbing statiscs. According to figures released this week by the mortgage industry, the U.S. is having a record year in the number of home foreclosures. In the first six months of 2007, we are 58% ahead of where we were for the same period last year! Over 570,000 properties have reported some type of foreclosure activity so far this year according to RealtyTrac, Inc. CEO James Saccacio to the Associated Press: "We could easily surpass 2 million foreclosure filings by the end of the year, which would represent a year-over-year increase of over 65%."

According to the report, California, Florida, Texas and Ohio led the nation with the highest number of homes in foreclosure. The AP story by Alex Veiga reported: "Last week, Calabasas-based Countrywide Financial Corp., one of the biggest mortgage lenders in the U.S., said even some of the most creditworthy borrowers were having trouble making their payments."

Is anyone else concerned about this trend? It would be interesting to note the number of business foreclosures and the comparison of corporate and personal bankruptcy filings nationwide too. Are the foreclosures related to job losses, or are many of us simply living beyond our income by purchasing homes based more on the ability to afford the payment while ignoring the inevitable increases in living expenses for healthcare, utilities, food and maintenance? My guess is that the majority of foreclosures are due to people living above their means than it is to significant job losses. We are writing checks that we can't cash.

Churches be warned and be careful! Especially those undertaking any type of serious capital campaign for anything from missions to building projects. It doesn't seem there is an end in sight to this unfortunate trend of Americans trying to satisfy an appetite we cannot afford.

I'm thinking spiritual foreclosures are probably up nationally as well. Spirtual foreclosures? Yep, I'm talking about people who take on more, promise more (many even well-intended) and accept an increase in ministry, service or leadership only to default on their commitment or intention, because "something else came up". Even more troubling is the alarming amount of those who make such commitments and have absolutely ZERO intention of ever making good on them, or those who are quick to offer criticism, or suggestions but refuse to be part of the solution. Yet, they are usually among the first to seek assistance from God's Grace Bank at the first sign of trouble. Then there's the group who promise and express a desire to grow in Christ through spiritual formation, but they aren't willing to make the necessary investment in time and effort. They would rather have a spiritual mentor, or leader wave a magic wand of spiritual growth over them and "make it all better".

Aren't you glad the Grace Bank is run by God and not me, or someone like you? He's the principal loan officer, president and CEO. What would happen if God started foreclosing on all the things we fail to make spiritual payments upon? The sound of the collapse would be deafening. It's time we quit focusing on the total spiritual mortgage amount we owe and letting its sheer size lead to self-resignation resulting in spiritual defaults. This is a debt that can never be fully repaid and that's the wrong approach, like looking through the wrong end of binoculars. Simply start making payments, or investments in the things of God. Unlike big mortgage companies, God respects single, small, honest steps with authentic motives. Just start giving a little at a time. Before you know you'll be making huge grace mortgage payments, investing in His kingdom and enjoying every moment of it, I promise!

Donaghy, Lohan, Vick & Le Tour de France

It's been an interesting couple of weeks in the lives of the rich and famous. According to news reports, disgraced NBA referee Tim Donaghy is expected as early as Thursday to face federal gambling charges. The 40-year old official is suspected of betting on NBA games and giving gamblers inside information.

Tour de France officials insisted yesterday their event will survive its latest crisis and that former race favorite Alexandre Vinokourov's initial positive test for a banned blood transfusion is a sign of health, not fatal illness, in their sport. Vinokourov's positive blood test result came the day of his Stage 13 time-trial win Saturday. After that result, Tour officials immediately demanded that his team, Astana, withdraw. (Boston Globe, July 25th)

Who hasn't heard the reports of NFL star Michael Vick's federal legal woes connected to an alleged dog fighting ring and animal abuses on his property in Virginia. Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank has now weighed in. From The Atlanta Constitution Journal July 25th : Blank said multiple times that the charges levied against Vick-losing dogs were allegedly tortured, shot, hanged, drowned and electrocuted — were repulsive. He tended to follow his rebuke with claims of Vick's presumed innocence, but his angst was on full display. Blank said he's so distressed by the situation and the 18-page indictment that he has wished he were back in Kenya, where he was earlier this month, with the "lions and cheetahs." "I'm honestly very disappointed that Michael has put himself in the circumstances he finds himself in," Blank said. "I'm disappointed for him, for our coaches, players, our fans, our community, all the fans in the National Football League. We have to let this play out and see what the facts develop. I'm certainly disappointed by the circumstances."

Former child actor Lindsay Lohan continues to struggle with growing up. On Tuesday, Santa Monica Police booked her on suspicision of drunken driving and cocaine posessesion. She's been out of rehab for less than two weeks related to another drunken-driving case.

As a diehard animal lover, it would be easy for me to join the media frenzy and public finger-pointing at Vick, Lohan, Vinokourov, and Donaghy, were it not for words written by the Apostle Paul two thousand years ago. Those words stop me in my tracks and remind me that I am no less a sinner. Paul wrote:

...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23)

I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19 For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do-this I keep on doing. 20 Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. (Romans 7:18-20)

I need, crave and routinely ask God for grace. He is not stingy or conservative about dispensing it either. He lavishes it on me. So how can I, someone who professes to be the recepient of such divine grace, withhold it from others, regardless of what they have done to me or others? That would be hypocrisy. I'm not saying we need to condone illegal behavior, drugs and violence that are in direct conflict with God's Word. However, there are other behaviors that are just as conflictive with God's Word and destructive that we routinely dismiss. Things like sarcastic comments toward obese people, or those of us who are follicly-challenged. And don't forget the town gossip, or the professional who won't face his/her racial or social prejudice. You can add the condescending judgmental legalist to the list as well.

While we let the legal process work, instead of trash talking and pointing our fingers, we need to pray for Vick, Lohan, and the Donaghy's of this world. We also need to learn from their mistakes and use them to educate succeeding generations to limit the future repetition of such behavior. But most importantly, we can pray that they will personally discover that none of us has to be a slave to sin and there is something we can do about. We can share the hope that we have. The Apostle Paul again:

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit. (Romans 8:1-4)

If we're going to seek grace then we've got to be willing to extend it to others. This is probably one of the most difficult biblical life applications we can make. Remember Jesus weeping over the spiritual condition of Jerusalem on that first Palm Sunday? Perhaps more of us need to weep and toil in prayer for these high profile, but all too human idols our culture holds so high from Hollywood to professional sports.

My Friend Larry, A Man of Incredible Faith

My friend's Larry and Deb Sherman moved to Myrtle Beach several years ago. Larry and Deb were a critical part of Mosaic's birth and infancy years. Larry was one of the original elders at Mosaic. Deb continues to serve as our webmaster from low country to this day! They are deeply committed Christ-followers who are passionate about ministry. A little over a month ago Larry began to have some problems with his eyes. He has since been diagnosed with an auto immune disease that affects his sight. He wrote the following article for the local newspaper. I thought it might inspire and encourage others as it has me. Enjoy and please pray for my friends Larry and Debbie.

God Why Did This Happen To Me?

Life is good...I play golf twice a week; Friday nights at Brookgreen listening to music, Saturday Nights at the pool with friends and Sunday afternoons at the beach soaking up the sun. Yes..Life is good.

Then all of a sudden on a Monday morning everything changes. I wake up with double vision, so I call my doctor to find out what’s going on. I go to the doctor and he gives me the once over and then begins:

“Double vision can be caused by any number of problems and we need to start at the top and rule out each of the possible sources one at a time.” (Makes since to me.) “First we will need for you to get two MRI studies to rule out a brain tumor”, he says, (whoa Nelly! This is getting serious) so I ask just what are the things that we are trying to rule out. “First we need to rule out brain tumor, because of an existing thyroid condition, I think you are looking at a Pituitary tumor that is putting pressure on the optic nerve, but it could also be an aneurism putting pressure on the optic nerve. It is possible you have Diabetes, MG or several other conditions of the eye...He went on naming things which I could not pronounce or spell. That is when the first question hit me: "God, Why is this happening to me?”

One week later, to the day, I am lying on the table being rolled into the MRI machine, listening to an easy listening station, when the second question hit me: God, What do you want me to learn from this experience? About that time the song changes on the earphones and I am now hearing the familiar words to an old song, “I just called to say I love you, I just called to say I really care”. I immediately think, “God could you have found a less expensive way to tell me you love me, this experience is costing me a couple of thousand dollars”.

I tell God, “You know I have been yours for over 58 years, I know you love me, but this cannot be the reason I am lying in this MRI machine. “ He does not answer. So after waiting a week to have the MRI studies and three days for the results, and imagining all of the worst case scenarios about what this is going to mean for me, the nurse calls and says that both MRI studies are negative and the doctor is referring me to a Neuro-Ophthalmologist for further treatment. She says the Doctor’s office will call and schedule an appointment with me.

When the phone finally rings, the receptionist on the other end says “Mr. Sherman your doctor has requested a consult; our earliest opening is in four weeks. “I swallowed hard, twice, and then gently in my most serene voice I said, “Is that the earliest you have, I have been dealing with this double vision for 10 days and it seams to be getting worse by the day, in four more weeks I will be TOTALLY BLIND, not to mention I won’t have any clients left” She informs me this is the best she can do, I can take the appointment or not. Deb had already done some research to find neurologist that also specialize in ophthalmology and you guessed it this guy is the only one in this entire coastal area. She schedules me for that appointment and then says she will call if there is a cancellation. At this point, I am beginning to come unraveled. I need to pray.

“God, I know I am supposed to learn some spiritual truth from this trial, some purpose. You know I have placed my life in your hands so whatever the outcome is, I submit my life to your will. If you think I need to wait 4 weeks in order to learn patience, I will do that, but could you remember all the other times you have tried to teach me patience in the past and speed this waiting up.? I have been waiting in agony for 10 days, and I’m scared about the future. I love you LORD and I resolve to place my life in your hands once again, and have faith that you will be in control and take care of me no matter what I must endure. I promise I will not try to handle everything by myself again. “

At the moment I finished my prayer, the phone rang and the receptionist on the other end said “Mr. Sherman I spoke to the doctor about your dilemma. He said he will see you during his lunch hour today if you can get here and bring a copy of you MRI by 12:30. “I fumble for my words astonished at what I am hearing, “Yes ma’am, you bet, I will be there at 12:30 pm sharp”
I hung up the phone and breathed this prayer, “God, you answered my prayer even before I prayed it, thank you for loving me like you do.” Ok its 10:30, I have to call the Imaging Center and get them to give me a CD with the MRIs and get to his office on the other side of the grand strand...I rushed downstairs and told Deborah what had just happened, we jumped into the car and made the trip.

Of course I want a magic pill to get rid of my problem so I don’t have to think about it anymore...but instead he tells me I need more diagnostic testing. The bills are adding up.
The symptoms are bad enough, but add on the waiting, the fear and the uncertainty. And to top it all off you don’t know if you can trust the doctors you’ve chosen since you’re fairly new to the area. Man! God you’re giving me a workout. So with a little tap on my shoulder God once again reminds me that he loves me and is in control in the form of a phone call...It’s my niece, who just happens to be a neurologist from Duke, telling me she is at Pawley’s on vacation. As I am telling her “how I am”, she says Larry bring your MRI CD down here and I’ll examine you and review your studies. God is so good and faithful.

The next morning, I gave blood for the $1700 dollars worth of “diagnostic studies” that would take ten days to complete...more money and more waiting. If you’ve never been self employed you take for granted all of the nice insurance perks that you get with a large company. You have to pay for your insurance package without the buying power of a large group policy. Deductibles are generally high and the insurance package doesn’t have as many perks. All of this to say it was gonna be a BIG bill. God nudges me again with an unexpected check from the U.S. Treasury Dept. for overpaid taxes in the exact amount to cover the diagnostic studies to date...Again I say God is so good and faithful to his children.

The nurse calls on the 10th day, July 3rd at 5:00 pm, with the results. I will go back to the doctor for treatment options (of course there was more waiting involved since tomorrow was July 4th). Finally the doctor prescribed the magic pill (or so I hoped.) The first dose after 3 hours I was seeing much better, not perfect yet, but manageable. I am still adjusting the medicine to the proper dose to achieve a full day of good vision. I will most likely have to take this medication for the rest of my life, and believe it or not...it is not that expensive, thank you God.

By nature I am a very private person, I do not like to share these types of personal experiences with everyone even though we all have them, but I am telling you the details of this experience to magnify how God has worked in my life and taken care of me in not only the big ways but in the small ways. So I think the answers to my questions are this...

· Trust God in all things, he loves you more than any person ever could. He planned your purpose long before you were born, he knows the past, the present and the future and certainly what is best for you...so why do we constantly try to blindly make decisions on our own, we don’t know anything for sure. Jeremiah 1: 5 Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart;

· If you have faith in Christ and place your trust in his ability to take care of you, you will not fear death, but see it as a doorway into a perfect life with the Creator. And you sure won’t waste time worrying about things you can’t change. John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. Matthew 6:27 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life ?

· God has known us before we were born. In scripture we are taught to search for God, Jeremiah 29:12-13 says then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Bolivia Bound!

This Thursday (July 12) a missions team from Mosaic will depart for Cochabamba, Bolivia. They will be in Bolivia from July 12-July 24th. Their mission will be tied to International Teams' ministry to orphans. http://www.iteams.org/wws/latin_america/cochabamba_orphanage.shtml

Bolivia has the highest rate of abandoned children in all of South America! Through I-teams work there, houses are being built that will provide a home for children to be adopted by nationals living in the homes. Our team will assist in construction on one of the homes in the rain forest and one in the city. They will also be leading VBS camps for the children.

This endeavor began with a dream of how Mosaic could really live out a biblical worldview and become more missional and global in practical ways. From its inception God has shown us His overwhelming desire that we partner with our brothers and sisters in Bolivia. This trip is simply the first step in a partnership that is about more than just a single mission trip, but a lasting relationship with Bolivian Christians on the field. The team has participated in ongoing, intentional cross-cultural training, spiritual formation for missions and missions training that has included some basic Spanish. This team leaves to serve with intentional preparation.

Please pray for our team, their travel, safety, health, and especially for the work God has for them as they work side by side with Bolivian leaders. We believe God is already at work in Cochabamba and wants us to join Him there. ALL of the necessary funds for travel, meals, and even building materials were raised by the team through fundraisers, letters and donations. Six months ago when our team leader, Scott White announced that we would need to raise about $17,000 to send the team, many of us were skeptical that a small church such as our's could raise the needed funds. Just as God has repeatedly provided for Mosaic these last five years, He has more than provided for the Bolivia team. We may be a numberically small church, but we serve a very BIG God! We have received approximately $20,000 from folks who are committed to this partnership! We take this affirmation seriously about our responsibility to minister, help and partner with the ministry in Cochabamba.

Finally, on behalf of the team, MCF and the many people who accompany the team via prayer, financial and physical support, we give all the praise and honor to Jesus Christ for making this possible! To God be the glory! Thanks for your prayers.

AMDG = To the greater glory of God alone!

God Bless America?

July 4th is here. The birthday of our Nation. This week we'll celebrate with parades, fireworks wherever it's not bone dry, cookout's, and concerts. Beaches and lakes will be crowded. For many, Old Glory will be raised and those seasonal, decorative yard flags will come down. Some of us won't need to raise the red, white and blue because it's pretty much the only flag we fly anyway. Nothing against those giant lady bug, or frog flags either!

I wonder how many hot dogs, hamburgers and cans of beer will be consumed during the holiday? Perhaps that's a more accurate reflection of America's DNA than our self-professing patriotism. We Americans do love to consume. If you're in doubt just scan the local newspaper and see how many July 4th sales ads you find at the Big Box stores and car dealerships. Big Box stores----now there's one of our biggest architectural and economic contributions to the world! Excuse me while I remove my tongue from my cheek.

I would to God that our beloved America was known more overseas for our godliness, instead of things or people like: Ipods/Iphones; Paris Hilton; MTV; Bling-bling; America Idol; outrageous lawsuits; and thug, or steroid-riddled professional sports and affluence obsession. All of us have contributed to this image in some form or fashion. Before you accuse me of hurling stones from a glass house, I must confess that I'm blogging this while sitting in a Starbucks. Talk about consumption!

From Fourth of July's long past, I can remember sitting on the bank of the Ohio River as a child with several families from our church, watching the hydra-boat races, tailgating (we called it a picnic back then), as the kids played games without anything electronic! We played games like baseball, badminton, horseshoes, tag and volleyball. Each of us would have to take our turn sitting on the homemade icecream bucket while an adult turned the handcrank, and fed the bucket more ice and rock salt. Most of us were wearing canvas tennis shoes without logos when the AM radio announcer introduced the local pastor who would offer the invocation before we sang the National Anthem. Air Force jets would then strafe across the sky and we were off to the races. EVERYONE enjoyed it because businesses, banks, restaurants, and stores closed for all or most of the day to celebrate America's birthday.

No, I'm not reminiscing through rose-colored glasses. We have come a long way since then, but in many respects we've taken two steps back while taking three into the local mall. Yes, it was a simpler time, but my Grandfather's (born in 1902) memories of July 4th's long gone was even simpler! His generation and my Dad's went to war to right injustices and defend the defenseless. Somehow I have a hard time accepting the idea that some kid my son's age is riding in an armor-plated Humvee in Iraq, serving in an unpopular war, so I can make another trip to Walmart, or to the gas station to fill my tank with refined Mideast oil! Agree or disagree with the war, these kids need to know they are defending much more than our freedom to be better consumers. We owe them our prayers and support.

I'm going home now and making sure our faded, sun-soaked U.S. flag is up. And this week I'm going to sing the song written by a Russian immigrant (Irving Berlin) asking God to bless America. But I'm not going to ask that without accepting the responsibilty of being blessed. It comes with high expectations and responsibilities to the rest of the world. As American's we need to be more grateful so that we may become even more generous with those around the world who have far less. I'm going to get on my knees and weep for the spiritual condition of our culture and ask God to heal us. But it has to start with me. Not my neighbor, or those northern states, or those "other" countries. It must begin with you and me.

God bless America, but only so she may be a blessing to others and bring Him glory, not to increase my retirement fund or investment portfolio at the expense of those who are in serious need.