FAN OR FOLLOWER??

While on facebook last night I came upon Amy's blog http://www.refereeofthree.blogspot.com/  entitled Fan Club (check it out).  She referenced a person who didn't have a problem with God.  It's His fan club he/she didn't like.  You can read Amy's response but it got me to thinking. (Some of you can see the various comments on facebook). 

Are we as Christians merely fans or followers of Jesus?  Now, I guess it depends upon how you define the word fan.  If it is defined as an "enthusiastic admirer" then that could become problematic.  So problematic that Kyle Idelman wrote a book entitled Not A Fan because he sees fans as those who merely want to be close enough to Jesus to get all the benefits, but not so close that it requires sacrifice.  A person can admire another person but never invest one's life into following that person.  There are fans who are like that.  They admire their teams.  They go to the games.  They cheer loudly.  They might even dress crazy and jump up and down and wave their arms.  But when the going gets tough, when the team begins to lose, when it's cold and rainy, when things go south, their support is "fair weather" at best!  I don't think that is what Jesus wants from us, just to be admirers, just to be a part of his "fan club" when all is going well.

Now if fan is defined as an enthusiastic "follower", that is a different story.  It is like the sign that is staked into the ground at the outskirts of the local high school football field.  It says, "No spectators beyond this point".  Exactly what Jesus is saying to us.  "I'm not looking for spectators.  I'm looking for followers - enthusiastic followers".  The difference is when we commit to follow Jesus, we move ourselves from the stands to the playing field.  And when we "play" for Jesus, we find that the playbook includes denying self, picking up the cross, and "following me".  It includes sacrifice and surrender, words we don't often like to hear. 

Like I told Amy, I don't want to get all caught up in semantics - fan or follower, because it depends upon one's definition of a fan.  I've known sports fan who have not missed a game for years, no matter what, to support their team.  And yes, I realize that going to the game and sitting on the sidelines and cheering wildly is not the same as putting on the uniform and "going to battle".  However, it would behoove us as Christians to share the same passion for Jesus as many "fans" have for their teams.  For in reality, when we have a passion for Jesus, we can be nothing less than enthusiastic followers of Him.  

Traveling to Bethlehem!

Since the first Sunday of Advent, we at the MUMC (and many others) have been traveling together on a spiritual journey that has been taking us from Nazareth to Bethlehem.  We have been reading Scripture in conjunction with the study entitled "The Journey" by Adam Hamilton from the Church of the Resurrection, that challenges us to take a fresh look at Joseph and Mary and the circumstances that they faced as they were chosen by God to be the earthly parents of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.  As we have taken a closer look at the culture and the context of the day, I must say that I have thoroughly enjoyed the material.  It has been enlightening, challenging, convicting, and reassuring to say the least. I don't know about you, but this has probably been one of the best Advent studies and sermon series I've ever been a part of.  For those of you who have been on the same journey, I hope you can say the same.  Take a moment to ponder upon the following questions or thoughts:

• How many people would be upset if we held an"historically correct" Christmas pageant?
• Did you grow up in a town more like Nazareth or Sepphoris?  What difference did that make with regards to the way you relate to Mary and/or Joseph?
• Did Mary really want to be Mary?
• Did Joseph really want to be Joseph?
• Do you think they had a choice?
• Coincidence that the root meaning for Nazereth means branch?  That Mary would have drawn living water from the well in Nazareth and Jesus offered "living water"?  That Bethlehem means "house of bread" and Jesus was known as the bread of life? 
• Can anything good come from Nazareth?  Bethlehem?
• Dreams, dreams, dreams - ask Mary, ask Joseph!  What about your dreams?  Does God speak to you in dreams?
• What do you think Jesus learned from Mary and Joseph while he was growing up in their home?
• Do you really believe "Emmanuel", God is with us?  Especially when you find yourself on a most difficult journey?  Sometimes we can just get mad or blame God and forget that God really "is with us".
• Contrast King Herod with Joseph - "Here I am God, notice me" as opposed to "Here I am Lord, use me". 
• Mary needed Elizabeth just as much as Elizabeth needed Mary.  Think about that.
• Can you imagine the stories that were shared when the pregnant Mary and Elizabeth sat down the first night after Mary arrived?
• A huge difference between having joy and being happy!
• No room in the "inn"?  Do a word study on "inn" and see what you find.
• Do you suppose Mary wanted to take the journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem knowing she was soon to give birth?  We all take unwanted journeys.  Let us not forget "Emmanuel"!!!!!

Keep moving forward.  We're in this thing together!

A LITTLE "THANKSGIVING" HISTORY

Thought it might be good to be reminded of a little history as it pertains to our Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday.  We are a blessed people!  Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

 

Abraham Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation



Washington, D.C.
October 3, 1863

By the President of the United States of America.
A Proclamation.

The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God. In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union. Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle or the ship; the axe has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consiousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.

No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People.

I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the United States to be affixed.

Done at the City of Washington, this Third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the Independence of the Unites States the Eighty-eighth.

By the President: Abraham Lincoln

IT'S ALL ABOUT COMMUNICATION!

It's a crazy world we live in these days.  The days of the rotary phone, party lines, long distance, hand written letters, and other forms of "antiquated" communication are virtually over.  Now we have e-mail, Facebook, Myspace, Ipads, Iphones, and Skype, to name a few.  At times I long for the "good" old days, but the ability to immediately connect and communicate with almost anyone, anywhere, is pretty convenient.  Not to mention, it's kind of fun.

For example, last Wednesday evening was the Country Music Awards show.  I was home in the evening for the first time for several weeks so I decided to watch.  It only took a few moments until one of the entertainers came out from behind the curtain wearing a "dress" that looked like she'd got a deal from a used carpet store.  It was awful.  Instinctively I grabbed my smart phone and checked facebook to see what people were saying.  And pretty soon it turned into an evening of sideline commentary on facebook from yours truly, my brother, my cousin, and a bunch of friends.  It was a hoot!  More entertaining than the CMA show itself.  Yep, it was crazy.  Who'd a thunk it even 10 years ago?

Here is another example (a better one I might add).  Today I had an opportunity to respond to questions from an evangelism class at the Perkins School of Theology on the Campus of Southern Methodist University in Dallas via Skype.  Dr. Steve Rankin contacted me, one of his students connected a computer to mine, and thanks to Skype, they were able to see and hear me on a big screen and I was able to see and hear them on the screen on my computer.  How crazy is that?  And how awesome?

Scripture reminds us that we are always to be ready to give an account for the hope that is within us.  We are also reminded to preach the Word; being prepared in season and out of season..even if that season means the sharing of the good news via audio and video on a computer.  And I wonder if the great commission of going into all the world includes the use of modern technology to communicate the good news of Jesus Christ to others?  I would say "yes". 

I thoroughly enjoyed the hour I spent with the students as I responded to their questions regarding evangelism from the viewpoint of a pastor in a local church.  And based upon their responses, I believe they enjoyed it as well.  Yep, it's a new day but it's a good day! 

Oops, gotta go.  My facebook page is blinking at me.

A "CONVENIENCE" SAVIOR?

As I was reading and reflecting on Scripture this morning I found myself observing the way people responded to Jesus.  Everyone seemed to be looking for a Messiah, a Savior, but in accordance to what they believed a Savior should be.  For most, a political, military ruler who would come riding in on a white horse, sword in hand, and destroy the rule of Rome.  Few were thinking of a Messiah who was going to come in humility and servanthood, be crucified as a common criminal, and be killed by the authorities as he was nailed to a cross.  That just wasn't the way it was supposed to be.  Besides, it wasn't convenient to be a follower of Jesus.  "Pick up your cross and follow me?"  You just might get killed.  Doesn't sound too convenient to me.

But isn't that what we've made Jesus to be?  A convenient Savior?  I mean really, we all want a Savior don't we?  We all want to be saved from sin.  We all want to be forgiven of our misdeeds.  We all want to be put right with God.  We all want to experience God's love.  Yet, when push comes to shove, how much do we really want Jesus to "intrude" in our lives?  We like when we are in control.  We like to do things our own way.  When things are going well, do we really need Jesus anyway?  But what about those other times?

How quickly do we suddenly turn to God when things aren't going so well?  When our marriages are falling apart, all of a sudden we look to Jesus (or at least a Savior of some kind).  When we face a life threatening injury or our health fails, we turn to Jesus.  When our kids make a wrong decision or we make a wrong decision that has dire consequences, we turn to Jesus.  Even when our car breaks down on the highway, all of a sudden we are praying to Jesus. 

Is it really about convenience?  I've heard that word a lot lately when it comes to worship, to personal time with God, to reaching out to others in need.  "If we just offer a time to worship when it's convenient, everyone will be happy".  "I'll take time to pray and study when it's convenient and fits into MY schedule".  "I'll take time to love my neighbor, as long as it is convenient for me". 

Was it convenient for Jesus to empty himself of his divinity and squeeze himself into flesh to come to us a babe born in a manger?  Was it convenient for Jesus to be mocked and laughed at and scorned, even as he was healing the sick, giving sight to the blind, touching the untouchables, and forgiving sins?  Was it convenient for Jesus to be whipped, beaten, and nailed to a cross on our behalf?  I don't think so. 

I think we must be very careful when it comes to playing the "convenience card" as it relates to what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ.  If it was all about conveneience, Jesus would never have left heaven on our behalf.  Thankfully it was all about his great love for each and every one of us, that he was willing to give of his all on our behalf that we might be saved from sin, that we might have life, abundant life, both now and for eternity.  And it was and is all about a relationship with God that is not based upon when it works best for us or when it doesn't.  It's about saying yes to Jesus to be our Savior every minute of every day, not just when we "need" him. 

I want to encourage you all to think about your relationship with Christ.  Life is too much of a roller coaster ride to sporadically call upon Jesus only when life is falling apart.  Jesus wants so much more for you and your life - joy, hope, confidence, assurance, blessings, and of course, right relationship with God and with each other. 

Don't forget, Jesus turns to each and every one of us, just like his followers in Scripture and says, "Follow me".  He did not add the words "if it is convenient".  JUST something to ponder.



MONDAY MEANDERINGS!

Catching my breath after a great Walk to Emmaus weekend.  As always, God's grace was revealed in a mighty way to all who attended the 72 hours of spiritual formation in Wichita.  I'm exhausted, but it's a good exhaustion and I'm grateful to all who were a part of the team.  Your work is deeply appreciated.  God definitely did His thing, in spite of us. 

I thought I'd just jot down a few random thoughts as the week gets started.  Besides, I'm not sure my little gray matter can string together one line of thought that would make any sense to you today.  So, let's meander together.

• GO CATS!!
• Is anyone crying that the pro basketball is not starting?  I didn't think so.
• World series?  Hey, it's football season!
• Football season AND deer season (black powder and bow).
• Our best laid plans are not necessarily God's plans.
• Church work is not the same as the work of the church.
• Thoughts on Brian's sermon on forgiveness?  What say you?
• The Jim Harbaugh handshake - big deal over nothing! Slow day in sports news.
• God's Grace - it's AMAZING!
• God's Grace - it's SUFFICIENT!
• De Colores??
• God always works in our lives, in spite of us.
• Fall - the best season of the year!  Frost knocking on the door.
• ML - the babe of my life!
• Indy car racing - not sure what to think about it.
• Good still continues to be the enemy of great.
• Reading the book Addicted to Hurry.  Yikes - busted!!
• Also reading Radical Together.  Busted again!!
• Why does the church exist?  What say you?
• The devil is still messing with people.  But don't forget, his days are numbered!
• Monday Night football and pizza tonight.  A good combo don't you think?

HAVE A GREAT WEEK!  GOD BLESS !!!

TAKING A WALK!!

"Now on that same day, two of them were going to a village called Emmaus..." (Lk.24:1)

Many of you know that I am involved in a ministry intended to strengthen, restore, and renew the spiritual life of the local church called Walk to Emmaus.  This "walk" is a 72 hour spiritual formation weekend which begins on a Thursday evening and concludes on the following Sunday afternoon.  It is a weekend filled with worship, talks from laity and clergy, eating, laughing, sharing, music, prayer, and did I say eating?  It is a weekend that is not intended to "fix' anyone, but to experience again, or maybe for the first time, God's amazing grace.

Yesterday concluded the Men's Walk at 1st UMC in Wichita and as always, it was an incredible weekend.  The stories of how God moved in the lives of the men who came from diverse backgrounds were incredible.  The healing, the bonding together, the restoration, the laughter was once again evidence of God's incredible love for His people.  Each closing service I always sit back and observe God's work in the life of the "pilgrims", and God's work in the life of the team who gave of their time to serve.  And each time, it goes beyond explanation how God meets people right where they are at and moves them towards a place He would have them to go.  All in the context of a loving relationship with Him.

This Thursday begins the Women's Walk at 1st UMC.  I happen to be the spiritual director for this particular walk.  Lori Richards is the Lay Director.  And 31 "pilgrims" (plus the servant team) will be making their way to Wichita to make this journey together.  Once again I am excited about the way God is going to move in the lives of these women.  It's not a matter of "if" God will move.  It is a matter of "how" He will move.  Fasten your seatbelts.

I would ask that you pray for the servant team made up of laity and clergy.  I would ask that you pray for Bri, our youth director from MUMC who is going to be on the journey.  I ask that you pray for me and for Lori as we will be leading together.  Most of all, I ask that you pray for God to once again, "do His thing" in the lives of all who "walk together". 

One thing about it, you can be sure that God's grace will be suffificent.  That's why it's called "AMAZING"!

35 YEARS! YOU KIDDING ME?

This past Saturday was my high school's 35th class reunion at Marion.  A little more than half of the class of 1976 was able to get together for a fun day riding a float in the Old Settler's Day parade and then gathering at the lake hall at the county lake for a catered meal and goofing off (some more than others).  I must say, it was a great time.  29 out of the 54 grads were able to converge on Marion for the get-together.  Some of my classmates I had not seen since graduation.  And boy, have they aged.  What the heck?  Gray hair, no hair, colored hair - mercy!  Amazing to think that we were not just talking about our kids, but GRANDKIDS!  What??  Too much fun!  Too much fun!!

Kudos to Duane McCarty and Joni Wiens Crofoot for all the grunt and groan work to gather addresses, send e-mails, facebooks, snail mail, and do all the logistical stuff for the parade and for the meal at the lake.  Great job!!  You're both keepers!

Personally, I had a great time seeing everyone again.  Not to mention retelling some of the crazy stories from our days of old ("I just told myself a joke I never heard before" - Duane M.)  And of course, I was the designated prayer for the meal.  Tried to take up an offering but did not succeed.  Anyways, looking forward to our 40th.  I'll invest in some Grecian Formula before then.

 A motley crew!

 Duane McCarty, yours truly, Jim Hoch, Steve Smith

Uhhh, who knows what's going on???

Sadly we lost four of our classmates:

Ann Higgins, Pat Kelly, Doug Druse, Jim Higgins

God rest their souls and God bless those of us who remain!!

See ya all in 2016!!

HOW GREAT THOU ART!

"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands".  Psalm 19:1

 Once again I had the wonderful privilege of experiencing God's great creation in the Rockies as I went with my brothers, nephew, and friends to the Flat Tops Wilderness Range in Colorado.  Yes, it was disguised as my annual elk hunt, but in reality, a time to see God's handiwork in the great outdoors.  The verse above truly speaks of how great God really is.  The heavens my not be able to sing, the trees and the mountains may not have literal voices, but they loudly proclaim the truth that our God is indeed an awesome God.  I love the picture above because the branches of the tree point skyward causing us to lift our eyes to the heavens and to the One who created them.

 Since I didn't see any elk on this particular day, it made sense to take in the sights around me.  Lest we get too prideful and think we are "big stuff", it just takes a picture like this to remind us that we are, in reality, quite miniscule in the bigger picture.  It reminds me of the verse in Psalm 8 that says, "What is man that you are mindful of him?"  Good question.  Yet God loves us above and beyond all of His creation.

 I was hiding in some pine trees (elk hunting, remember) when it began to spit ice pellets from the sky. Next thing I knew, there was a rainbow.  Beautiful! 

A panoramic view outside our tent towards the west.  You might notice our horses grazing off to the right.  The mountain is called "the Derby".  A beautiful sight.  As far as the hunt, the elk were hard to come by.  They stayed hidden in the timber due to the full moon at night and the fact that it had been so wet.  It was lush wherever we went and as a result, the elk needed no reason to come out.  However, a great time with the guys, as always.  And yes, as always, God was present in the very midst of His creation.  O Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder......

CROSSING THE FINISH LINE!

THE BOWERS CREW 

 A pic of a few of ML's family who ran (and walked) the 5K on Saturday.

"AND THEY'RE OFF" (in the head?)

(Yep, that's gramma Bowers walking - enjoying the scenery)

Weird how the start sign was backwards.  If I'd have known, I'd have finished the race quicker.

Well, as many of you know, ML and I have been "training" the last 9 weeks to run a 5K which was held this past Saturday.  The race was held as a fund raiser for the Mothers Of Pre- Schoolers (MOPS) at the Marion County Lake.  It was a nice morning - cooler than it has been the past few weeks.  Very thankful.  We both finished with times we were pleased with and found it to be quite enjoyable.  But if you would have told me I would ever run 3.2 miles on purpose, I would call you crazy.

Several reasons for running - 1) just to get some exercise and to do it together.  Even though it's been very hot as of late, it has been good to sweat it out, get the heart rate up, and feel better as a result of physical activity.  2) I'm gearing up to go elk hunting next month in the mountains and hope this helps me get into shape so I don't "die in the high country". 

Actually, it was rather fun to line up and run with people of all ages.  There were men, women, boys and girls.  There were those who you knew ran competitively and then there were those, well, like me who were glad to run a steady pace and cross the finsh line.  And in reality, wasn't that the point, to cross the finish line, no matter the time?

Life is like that isn't it?  And as Scripture reminds us, we are to "run with perseverance, the race marked out for us" (Hebrews 12:1).  No doubt, the race is marked out for us.  And we know that it is not a hundred yard sprint.  It's a long distance run which means we have to keep at it.  It's easy to want to give up, to put off training, to wait for a "cooler day".  But we have to keep on keepin' on.  There are many things in life that want to keep us from finishing strong - stress in relationships, vocational struggles, financial concerns, health problems, etc.  Yet, we must persevere.  And just like ML and I had to do for the 5K, there is an element of training, getting in shape, that must take place to press on.

Part of that training first begins with a relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ.  And to maintain that relationship requires spiritual discipline, just like running requires physical discipline.  Worship, Bible study, prayer, small groups are just a few ways that help us train, help us keep moving towards the finish line. Plus, there is accountability in spiritual disciplines which prod us along, even when we don't feel like it.

So, I want to encourage you to keep after it.  After all, if I can make it across the finish line after running over three miles, you can make it across the finish line of life by keeping your eyes on Jesus and staying disciplined as you follow Him.  So..........Ready...Set...GO!





GOING UNDER FOR THE LORD!!

As you can see, a great time Sunday morning.  We held our worship service in the park - "Praise in the Park".  We combined all 3 of our services into one and had a great day of praise and worship as one church body.  It was wonderful (although it did get a little toasty towards the end).  Good thing we started at 9:00.

It just so happened that there was a tank filled with water so why not have a baptism?  So baptize we did!  I had the privilege of baptizing Samuel Keith Westfall into the faith.  So awesome!  When asked why he wanted to be baptized, he said because that's what Jesus did.  And then he said he wanted people to know he loved Jesus.  So in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Sam was baptized.  He came up out of the water just a grinnin'.  Gotta love it.  Everybody clapped and cheered, just the way the family of God should respond.

Hope some of you were able to be there.  It was a marvelous day.  If not, I just wanted to share a few of the "God moments" that took place this past weekend.  Congrats Sam!!

BLOWOUT!!

I mentioned Sunday that my oldest son was taking a group of teens to Montana on a youth mission trip. I thought it strange that he was calling me Saturday afternoon because I knew the group couldn't be too far down the road. I answered the phone and he said, "Dad, I need your help. I need the number to Triple A". Sure enough, vehicle problems - just an hour into Colorado. A tire that had just been purchased the previous week had blown. That's bad enough but as you can see, it blew to pieces and one of those pieces caught a radiator hose which meant the van was overheating and could not be driven any further. Unfortunately they were not covered by AAA and ended up calling ahead to Flagler and the van was towed to town and repaired there. He did call later and say they were back on the road but I've not heard from him since so I assume no news is good news.

Life is full of blowouts isn't it? At times they are not too consequential - just a matter of a simple fix ( putting on the spare) and you're back at it. At other times it seems overwhelming - a flat tire, a torn radiator hose, a stranded van full of kids, 100 degree heat, no AAA coverage - one thing after another. One thing for sure, life is always going to have its share of blowouts! The question is, how will we handle them?

If we're honest, there are times when we become overwhelmed and "behave badly". "Why me?" Anger, bitterness, complaining, grumble, grumble, grumble. But what good does that do? How does that fix the tire, repair the hose, encourage the kids, or expedite the process? Or in life, how does being fussy and grouchy build trust with others, repair a relationship, encourage our children, reveal a Christian witness? Sometimes "life" (blowouts) just happens. It's how one responds to the blowouts of life that reveal who we really are in Christ, not to mention how others observe us as those who proclaim to be followers of Jesus.

I am reminded in John 16:33 where Jesus reminds his followers that "In this world you will have trouble (blowouts), but take courage, I have overcome the world". Therefore, knowing that none of us are exempt from "life" happening to us, let us not allow the blowouts of life cause us to "blow up". Look to the One who offers us spiritual roadside service, the One who has overcome the troubles and enables us to overcome as well. Happy traveling!!

MONDAY MEANDERINGS!

Ah yes, another Monday. Most people hate Mondays. Me?? Normally my day off so I kind of like it. It gives me a little breather before jumping back in the saddle and gettin after it for another week. Lots of thoughts floating around in my head but the problem is, they don't seem to want to leave. Ever had that problem? I'm sure they are good thoughts, but for the moment, they are going to have to simmer. In the meantime, here goes:

• 
  
  I'm still convinced that humidity is of the devil.


• 
  
  3 months from right now til the infamous elk hunt, but who's counting?


• 
  
  Sunday was an awesome day in worship! Preached the "dynamite power" of the Holy Spirit and that very Spirit drew many to the altar for prayer. Blaze, Spirit, blaze!!


• 
  
  I still love this quote - "He who hears not the music thinks the dancer is mad!" (In Batterson's book 'In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day!'


• 
  
  ML and I are attempting the Couch-to-5K Running Plan! (On purpose - how crazy is that?)


• 
  
  I know many of you love summer, however...........................


• 
  
  Something to ponder - A system produces what it measures, and you get what you pay attention to.


• 
  
  Wheat harvest is upon us. I hope to help out next Monday (unless dad and bro are done by then). It always reminds me of what Jesus said - the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Anyone ready to go to work? Nothing like leading someone to Jesus, bringing them into the kingdom.


• 
  
  Extremely excited about the staff at our church. Vicky, Tracey, , ML, Brian, Bri and yours truly - A great team! For such a time as this!!


• 
  
  Facing some possible change at the church. Still praying for discernment and for God's will that we might focus on reaching the least, the last, and the lost. Gil Rendle said that for change to take place, there are two parents - pain and possibility! ('Journey in the Wilderness'). How true, how true!


• 
  
  Grateful for the life of Betty Henderson who passed away last Saturday. Her memorial service will be Friday at 11:00 at MUMC.


• 
  
  The NBA championship won by the Mavs over the Heat is proof that you can't buy the ring!


• 
  
  Father's Day is Sunday. Don't forget. Most of all, I am thankful to my Heavenly Father for offering me his grace and mercy through Jesus. Amen and amen!

HORSING AROUND!

This past weekend I went to my brother's house for a little country "get-a-way" time. I left Sunday afternoon (after a short nap) and got to Rod's house around 4:00. We lazied around for a little while and then decided it was time to make something to eat. We were the only ones around because the rest of his family was out and about doing other things. So, we fired up the grill, grabbed a couple steaks, a little deer burger, and found some fish and taters. You know, a good red-neck meal of meat and potatos. And yes, it was great.

We then decided to saddle up the horses and go for a ride down by the creek and surrounding area. His dog (which is as fat as a whale) decided to go along. We rode through a brome field and scared up a couple of does (female deer for you city folks). They are beautiful animals and are so graceful in their movement. We galloped the horses back across the field and turned back toward the creek. Of course the dog had to stop for a swim - crazy thing. We were walking along and I turned to Rod, "look over there in the grass". Lying there with his head turned the other way was a nice whitetail buck, its antlers still in the velvet. We slowly walked the horses closer to it until it could take it no longer and it bolted out of sight. I took a picture with my phone but it was too blurry. In the fall that buck may end up in my brother's freezer, we'll see.

We rode the horses a little farther into the trees only to scare up a big ole badger. He scurried off. Good thing the dog didn't see him. The badger would have won that battle. You don't want to make a badger mad.

We rode through the trees and along the ponds, up and down the hills enjoying the ride and the scenery. Other than a few mosquitos, it couldn't have been a better evening. Nothing like riding horses to leave some of the stuff of life behind, if only for a little while.

I don't know about you but life goes by too quickly. Here today, gone tomorrow. If you're not careful the moments to ride a horse, stop and look at deer, go down to the creek, or even grill a steak are gone. Personally I don't want to miss those moments when God meets me in the middle of His creation. For me, those moments are sacramental, meaning God's grace is present. And even though it was only for a few hours in the evening, it was a time for God to renew me and and refresh me. And for that I am grateful - even if it meant a little horsing around.

HOLY! HOLY! HOLY!

I'm heading to Hutchinson in the morning for the Kansas West Annual Conference so I don't have time to opine. However, in light of my sermon on Sunday morning I ask you to meditate upon these following words this week:

"SAYING YES TO GOD MEANS SAYING NO TO THOSE THINGS THAT

OFFEND THE HOLINESS OF GOD".

Have a great week and keep your eyes on Jesus!

"GO.... TO A LAND I WILL SHOW YOU"

ML and I are extremely blessed and proud of the family that God has given to us. It's rather amazing to think that we have two sons (Todd and Eric) who are married and four grandchildren as a result. And who knows with Kyle? Wedding bells in the next year or two? We'll see.

It's been an exciting journey raising this family of ours. Todd and Eric were born when we were living in the country in a little spot in the road in Marion county. ML and I were blessed by God to have good jobs and things were going well for us. Then God throws us a curve ball - "the call" into ordained ministry. So, not realizing what we were doing, we sold the house and a lot of our belongings, loaded the kids, and moved to Chicagoland. Talk about culture shock!

I enrolled in college, completed a B.A. in Biblical Studies, then enrolled in seminary and received my Master of Divinity degree. (7 years worth of school in 6 - yuck). God provided in miraculous ways - ML worked full time, baby Kyle came along (surprise, surprise), I did yard care and misc. work, ultimately was hired at a church and after it was all said and done, moved back to Kansas in '94. It almost seems ridiculous. If we had really thought about it, we probably would have hid under a rock until the feeling passed.

We served for 7 years in Salina, 8 years in Leoti, and are completing our 2nd year at Mulvane. It has been quite a ride. 2 boys married to wonderful Christian women, 4 super grandkids, 1 boy a year from graduating college (and dating a fabulous Christian girl) and a wife that is a 100 on a scale of 1-10. How weird to think we left a great place in Marion county - on purpose, because God said "Go!"

Fast forward to this past month or so. Now you know I am extremely proud of my boys. Each one is unique and is being used by God in their particular circumstances. And as many of you know, I mentioned that Todd ( the oldest), was sensing that God was calling him out of his position at a church in Salina to ................................. Well, that's just it. He did not know. God had just impressed upon he and Melissa that a change needed to take place. So, without knowing where God was taking them, Todd "officially announced" his resignation from the church a month or so ago to "go to a land I will show you" (see Gen. 12). Long story short, Todd received 2 phone calls the week after he made his announcement. Two different places of employment contacted him to come and interview for positions that were open. They both felt Todd had the gifts and graces needed to help them out.

Although the first interview went fine, Todd sensed it was not where God was calling him to go. However, the 2nd interview was a different story. Needless to say, this past Wednesday, Todd was hired as the Client Services Director for the Salina Crisis Pregnancy Center where he will use his background as an equipping pastor for his church to "equip" and guide others at the CPC.

I say all of this because God's desire is that we will be obedient to Him. That means that a step of faith is involved. Even though I was concerned for Todd and his family, he reminded me that I had no business trying to talk him out of stepping down from the church. After all, "you loaded us all up and away we went to Chicago, not knowing what lie ahead". Busted!! Yep, Todd's right. Some times we are called to just "go", not knowing where God might lead us. But lead us He will. He has always done so, is doing so, and will always continue to do so!

So Todd and Melissa, (and kiddos), congratulations on being obedient. Serves you right! Let us all be as faithful!

HITHER AND THITHER!!

Hmmmmmmm!

Ever have those days when your thoughts end up going hither and thither? You know, "here and there, as I've been wandering about". Except in this case, "as I'm "wondering" about."

I wonder:

• 
  
  Will it ever rain again? How is it that there is drought in one part of the country and flooding in another part? Crazy!


• 
  
  How many people's password on the computer is "password?"


• 
  
  Is there such a thing as phobaphobia - the fear of acquiring a phobia?


• 
  
  What does it mean for us to live in a post-Christian society?


• 
  
  What the future holds for my grandkids in light of the previous question?


• 
  
  If we realize the importance of "passin the faith along?"


• 
  
  If the fear of failure immobilizes us?


• 
  
  If the devil's desire is to scare the heaven out of us?


• 
  
  How much energy we spend seeking God versus what Mark Batteron calls the "uncertainty principle" - you can't never always sometimes tell!


• 
  
  If the church should spend more time playing offense than defense?


• 
  
  If the church transforms culture or culture transforms the church?


• 
  
  If normal really is nothing more than a setting on the dryer?


• 
  
  If we should take God more seriously and take ourselves less seriously?

WHAT SAY YOU?

JUSTICE SERVED?

Well, what a day it has turned out to be. I was going to write a follow up blog to yesterday's sermon but things change (See Amy Nelson's blog from Sunday if you want a synopsis). However, last night the president announced to the world that a military operation had taken place in Pakistan and that a group of Navy Seals took out Osama Bin Laden. After nearly 10 years, American intelligence finally tracked down the ellusive terrorist who was the mastermind of the killing of thousands throughout the world over a period of many years.

Now, the Clint Eastwood side of me wants to jump up and down and scream, "Serve you right, you *******". After all, he caused so much heartache and pain. How can we ever forget 9/11? The crashing of planes into the pentagon in D.C., into the towers in New York City, and the downed plane in Pennsylvania killing all aboard. A horrific day! The images will forever be in our minds. No wonder people are euphoric on this day - "USA! USA! USA! People singing the national anthem, saying the pledge of allegiance, cheers and chants by the military and civilians alike. Celebration at Times Square, Ground Zero, the White House, and cities throughout the land. It feels good. Victory, jubilation, we got him!! Yes, revenge feels good. It's as if everyone wanted to pull the trigger because of what Bin Laden had done.

In the president's speech he said "justice is done". On the one hand, I definitely agree, for justice has to do with the principle of moral rightness, that which is fair with regards to actions and attitudes. So, justice has been served in the sense that the actions are justified in response to the horrific acts masterminded and supported by Bin Laden. The world is a better place with him removed.

Yet we must be careful. As much as I am the first one to want to grab the six-shooter in response to senseless acts like those of Bin Laden, I acknowledge that justice is governed by the one who is truly just, that being God Himself. Scripture reminds us that "vengeance is mine" says the Lord. And moral actions and attitudes are are not determined by me, nor by a small group, or even an individual nation. They are determined by God who alone is good, who alone is just, who alone is fair, whose "ways are not our ways nor his thoughts our thoughts". So we must be careful not to become too prideful or think that our strength and our might has the last word when it comes to justice.

With all that being said, I am thrilled by the news. I am so thankful for those who trained and were willing to give of their lives to see that the mission would succeed. I am thankful that we never gave up in the pursuit of bringing Bin Laden to justice. And for those who loved ones were killed because of terror, I pray that in some way they experience comfort. And although I have not been a big President Obama fan, I give him kudos for giving the green light to the Navy Seals to take out Bin Laden. A quite risky decision but the right one.

Keep praying for peace to the One who is the prince of peace. As we do so, may God bless America!

VICTORY!!

Well, here we go, back to the blog now that Lent is over. I'll try and keep up - no promises. Yesterday was Easter and wow, what a great day! We began with a sunrise service in the park located just west of the church. The youth led the service and did a great job and acted out a skit that focused on what it means to truly follow Jesus. The service was followed by a breakfast in the fellowship hall. The room was beautifully decorated. A wonderful spread of muffins, rolls, oatmeal, yogurt, fruit, and yes, even a chocolate fountain for the fruit. And of course, coffee, milk, and juice. Awesome!

The worship services were a great time of celebration. We kicked off the JAM service with a jacked up rendition of Christ the Lord is Risen Today led by the praise band- sweet! The place was packed and God was definitely in the house. You could just feel the Spirit. The same held true for the service in the sanctuary. The great hymns of resurrection, the large gathering of men and women, boys and girls, the music of the choir, the word preached and the challenge given, and the celebration of the resurrected Lord that sent us into the world - what an awesome day!!

Easter Sunday is as good as it gets. As I mentioned to someone the other day, you think a rabbit hiding eggs is a big deal?? Try rising from the dead!! Now that's something to shout about. That's why I chose the above picture - Jesus with his head thrown back and you can just hear him laughing, "You thought death could keep me down? You thought a tomb could hold me? You thought a stone could keep me in the grave?? Have you forgotten who I AM??"

The resurrection laughs at sin, at death, at bondage, at despair.......... The resurrection defeats them all. Jesus is all about victory!! He is the One who gives us the victory. He is the one who gives us the joy that we can throw our heads back and laugh at all that attempts to bring us down. Here's the deal. There is nothing that can defeat us because of Jesus, because of faith in Him. DO WE BELIEVE IT?

It is my prayer that for whomever might be reading this, that you will not just talk about how wonderful Easter Sunday was, but live out how wonderful Jesus is - yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He is the one who brings you salvation, joy, forgiveness, hope, and peace. And he is the one who brings you victory. Believe it! Live it out! And join Jesus, the originator of LOL - "laughing out loud" as we proclaim the victory over sin and death!

SETTING IT ASIDE!

Hi folks. Life's been a little (or a lot) crazy as of late. I shared with an Emmaus group and with my church that busyness has become an obstacle to grace as well as an obstacle to my walking with Jesus towards the cross this Lenten season. In light of that I am setting aside the blog until after Lent to gain a little focus. As it says in Hebrews 12:2, I need to "fix my eyes on Jesus". So I'll catch up with you after Easter. Pray for me as I have a revival to preach next week in Cheney and a lot of other things on the plate. Keep on keepin on in Jesus!!

ANTICIPATING EASTER!

Believe it or not, the season of Lent begins this coming Wednesday and for many traditions, including mine, we will begin with an Ash Wednesday service. Now when I was growing up, the church I attended said little about Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Holy Friday, or even the word "lent". Maybe it was "too Catholic' or something. Or maybe there was a fear to be honest about reflecting upon sin and our human mortality. I don't know for sure.

If you really think about it, most people shy away from talking about sin, repentance, human limitations, and the fact that death is crouching at our door. We'd rather live in a world of denial, pretending all is okay and that it will be better tomorrow. But lent reminds us that we do live in a world of limitations, that we do live in a world infected by this thing we call sin, that we will not live forever. In fact we are here today, gone tomorrow.

One thing I appreciate about the forty days between Ash Wednesday and Easter is the opportunity to take a personal inventory - to look honestly at my own shortcomings (plenty of them), to reflect upon my relationship with God and others, and to honestly ask if I truly am prepared to die at a moment's notice. In our culture it is too easy to look at others faults, to blame others for our struggles, our problems, to sit on the pity pot crying about things that the rest of the world would beg to have or be a part of (food, clothing, work, school, church, etc). No, lent forces me to look at myself and see what I have allowed to get in the way of my relationship with God as well as what has hindered my relationships with others. And yes, that word is "sin".

The above picture references Psalm 51, a Psalm of confession, more specifically King David's confession before God regarding his sin with Bathsheba. I plan to read it daily during lent. I encourage you to do the same. It will do your heart good for it will enable you to focus on the One who can cleanse you and renew you as you move towards the celebration of Easter. I also encourage you to attend the special services that are offered in your local church. For you Mulvanites, we will hold a special Ash Wednesday service on the 9th at 7:00 in the sanctuary. In order to truly come to grips with the movement of the Lenten season, the participation in this service and the Holy Week services will help you prepare for the great celebration of the resurrection on Easter Sunday. To miss these services so often leaves a void, much like getting a gift but only opening it part way.

So join me in taking some time to reflect upon your spiritual condition this Lenten season. Read Psalm 51 daily. And turn your eyes from self to Jesus and his journey to the cross. For it is because of that cross that your sins have been forgiven. Lent is here and yes, Easter's comin'.

MONDAY MALARKEY!!

Actually, I like Mondays. It's my day off (or at least is supposed to be). You know how that goes. If you want to drive someone crazy just say, "Wow, only ___ days til Monday!" Try it and see for yourself. Anyways, a few thoughts as I find myself "Just Wondering".

• Did anyone watch the Grammys? Have we lost touch with reality?? As they say, "Seriously?"
• How about the kid who won the Daytona 500, Trevor Bayne? I like him. Youngest ever to win the big one. Great with the interviews and an obvious Christian. Good for him!
• Blessed to hang with a few of the folks from the Emmaus community in Garden City on Friday and Saturday. And always a blessing to stay with the Sheppards. Good times!
• Hey Kolton! What happened to your voice????
• It was good to strum the 6 string again on Sunday in Jerry's absence. It's been awhile! As much as I love to play, hurry and return to the band Jerry. Heal quickly!!
• Ate lunch with my oldest son today. He always has some good thoughts to ponder. For example, should we really be asking for God to reveal His will for our lives, or just for Him to reveal His will? Isn't there a difference??
• Also, if a person says "good worship service today", what exactly does that mean??
• I really like Albert Pujols as a baseball player and as a person but is he being greedy regarding his next salary contract?
• And what about the collective bargaining agreement in the NFL??? Am I supposed to feel sorry for the multi-millionaires??
• How serious are Christians when they say they are willing to do whatever it takes to invite people to church or introduce others to Jesus?
• If church was against the law, would we go?
• Are we willing to give up our kids' childhood so they can be involved in every sport and activity imaginable?
• Can Dick Vitale speak in a normal tone?
• Frank Martin preaches discipline but isn't controlling one's tongue a discipline?
• How much wood can a woodchuck chuck........?

PLATE'S FULL!

Sorry - no blog this week. Too much going on. However, way to go Wildcats!! See ya!!

Super Bowling!

Well, the Green Bay Packers pulled it off. They defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers in yesterday's big game by the score of 31-25. Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay quarterback) was the MVP and you can be sure that he will make a few bucks in endorsements in the coming months. Jordy Nelson, wide receiver from KSU had a great game (even thought he dropped a few passes). And Ben Roethlisberger will have to wait another year to get that third ring as a Steeler QB.

I was glad to see the Packers win, mainly because I'm a Jordy Nelson fan. -farm kid from Kansas who makes it big - I like that! I also was pulling for Rodgers who has had to live in the shadow of Brett Favre for many years. Now maybe that monkey can find another back to make its home. And to see the Packers win such a big game in the midst of all the injuries, you got to give it to them. Congrats!!

I mentioned in church that the winner would probably be the team that took advantage of the opportunites that would present themselves and was I right or what? 3 turnovers translated to 21 points - enough said! Good game though. Lot's of fun!

EXCEPT for the national anthem, the half-time show, and some of the commercials!! Come on Christina - get the words right! There is no prize for how many syllables you can pack into one word or how long you can make the song last. Yikes!! She made the dogs in Dallas howl! And talk about howling - what in the world was that 30 minutes of stuff that was defined as a half-time show? Black-eyed peas?? I get the name, for it was indeed a "black eye" for the super bowl. Maybe they are in good in concert, but yesterday it was awful!! (Yes, my opinion) - we can agree to disagree but according to all the talk on the tube, most agree with me. And last but not least, the commercials. Some were funny - the monkeys, the Dorito chips, the beaver. But do we have to keep stooping to all the sexual innuendos in these ads? Come on - if you have a good product, advertise it and maybe I'll buy it. I don't need the "skin" to entice me. Besides, skin wrinkles!!

Okay, enough for now! JUST some thoughts and comments. The game was great, hard fought and close. That's the way it should be. Until next year....................................................................

THE REAL DEAL!

Okay, I am often skeptical about those who have had "near death experiences" or have a story about "light on the other side" or some other description of heaven. However, after being encouraged (many times) by a few members of the church I sat down after lunch today and read the book Heaven Is For Real by Todd Burpo. As I turned the pages I found myself thinking, "Yes, this is the real deal". It's not just a bunch of warm fuzzies or a bunch of wishful thinking focusing on some cosmic ray of light floating around somewhere. No, it was about heaven, Jesus, the love of God, indescribable colors, the "BIG" throne, the Holy Spirit who shoots down power, new bodies, no darkness, the reality that the devil still is messing with us, and the fact that Jesus wins - all told by a young boy who experienced these and more.

Burpo is a Wesleyan pastor in Nebraska who tells the story of his 4 year old son Colton, who found himself in the operating room facing emergency surgery as it related to a burst appendix. With the doctors offering no real hope for Colton, God chose to work in miraculous ways. First, Colton baffles the doctors and medical staff with his recovery. (Result of a praying church) Second, he baffles his parents with matter of fact stories of his encounter in heaven, spending time with Jesus, the people he saw, the colors he described, the throne, etc. Third, he confronts our heady theological approach to all that is supernatural as it relates to God. "Jesus really loves the children" Colton noted, and it is with a child like faith that I invite you to take a few hours to read this book. It will bless you and give you shot in the arm regarding the greatness of what yet lies ahead for those who place their faith in Jesus.

Yep, the real deal. Check it out!

SPIRITUAL RETREAT!!

Jerry Boden strumming for Jesus!

Worship! Both expressive and reverent!!

What a great day we had as a church body at Camp Horizon this past weekend. God blessed us with His presence as we sang, prayed, studied, discussed, ate, and had fellowship together. What a blessing! It is always a joy to get together with other believers and just take some time to be in God's presence. Our time together wasn't about church business, committee meetings, structure, politics, or polity. No, it was a time to grow in our intimacy with God. In fact, that was the theme for the day.

Thank you to the 36 folks who took time out your busy schedule to come and spend some time with the Lord and with His body of believers. God truly honored that time and based upon the response, you were "renewed", "blessed", and "challenged" to grow in your faith. Many of you mentioned how you had slipped in your spending "quiet time" with the Lord and how this retreat encouraged and energized you to be disciplined in that area of your walk with the Lord. I echo that.

For those of you who were able to attend, I pray that you will continue to be intentional in your desire to draw closer to God. For those of you who were unable to attend, I pray the same for you, that you will "draw near to God, for He will draw near to you." (James 4:8)

Have a great week!!

PR

"BRUTIFUL"

I was talking with a pastor friend the other day who was going through some struggles and he used the term"brutiful" to describe what he was going through - "Ministry is brutiful. It is brutal and beautiful at the same time". Boy is he right. And yet, why should that be such a surprise? Take note of what Jesus has to say to those who choose to follow Him:

• If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it." (Mark 8:34-35)

• "....they will lay hands on you and persecute you. They will deliver you to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name. This will result in your being witnesses to them." (Luke 21:12-13)

• "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." (Mt. 5:11-12)

• "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart, I have overcome the world." (Jn. 16:33)

• Yep, it's not an easy road we are traveling to heaven, for many are the thorns on the way. However, in the midst of some of the thorns, the potholes, the obstacles, the stumbling blocks, the frustrations and struggles that we all face, we are promised that we are not alone. "I will never leave you nor forsake you" Jesus reminds us. "I will carry you, I will comfort you, I will exchange your weakness for my strength, I will give you grace that will be sufficient for you to carry on."

• The promises of God are trustworthy and true. What a blessing! God is "faithful" as the great hymn reminds us. What a joy to know that we have the blessed assurance that Jesus is with us through the thick and the thin, through the victories and the struggles.

• Being a follower of Jesus has never been promised to be without its difficulties. Yes, it can be brutal at times (something to do with picking up the cross). But at the same time it is beautiful because there is victory in Jesus - there is forgiveness of sin, there is restoration of relationship, there is grace that is sufficient, there is the promise of never being alone, and there is love that is everlasting.

Keep the faith friends!

WHITER THAN SNOW!

The snow we received on Monday reminded me of a verse in Scripture. You might recall that Psalm 51 is believed to be King David's confession of his sin with Bathsheba. On the one hand, we see David confessing that he is a sinner and that God is justified in His judgment upon his life. On the other hand, we see David throwing himself upon God's mercy, all the while knowing that God can and will forgive him and cleanse him of his sin. After David confesses his sin, he cries out to God, "wash me, and I will be whiter than snow".

As I looked at the snow that had fallen, it was so beautiful, so fresh, so clean, so white. The dry brown ugly grass had been covered by the fresh blanket of snow and the lawn took on a new appearance. In the same way, we take on a new appearance, even more than that, a new life when God forgives and cleanses us of our sin. In fact, he blots out that sin, never to be remembered or held against us. I don't know about you, but that's good news!

But a word of warning, even though we are "washed, whiter than snow", it doesn't take long for us to get complacent and apathetic. Take a look around. The snow is now dirty and grimy looking. It's been driven on and pushed to the side and scooped away. If we're not careful, we who are cleaned up can pretty soon fall back into our old ways and also look like dirty tromped on snow.

Like David, it would behoove us to pray that God would create in us a pure heart and renew a steadfast spirit within us. And as we pray, let us also commit ourselves to remaining pure and clean before God. Then, just like the snow that is in the picture above, we will be a beautiful representaton of God's cleansing work in our lives.

GETTING SERIOUS ABOUT THE GOSPEL!

Wow! Just finished a book by David Platt entitled Radical - Taking Back Your Faith From the American Dream. I've read some challenging books as of late, some books that have been used by God to convict who I am and what I proclaim to be as a Christian. But this one may be the one that smacked me the most as it pertains to what it means to follow Jesus, especially as an American who professes to be a Christian. Platt contrasts the cultural Christianity that has taken hold in America versus a lifestyle that comes from a truly biblical understanding of "denying self, picking up the cross, and following Jesus". This includes the willingness to leave behind security, money, convenience, even friends and family. In otherwords, abandoning everything for the gospel.

By the time a person gets to the end of the book, Platt challenges you to a one year experiment: 1) Making a commitment to pray for the entire world (he offers methods to do so), 2) Making a commitment to read through the entire Word (all of Scripture) 3) Sacrificing money for specific purposes (caring for the poor, the less fortunate, the sick and needy, etc.) 4) Making a commitment to spend time in another context (cross cultural, a place you've never been before (and not necessarily a safe place), 5) Making a commitment to multiply community - realizing the gobal purpose of Christ was never intended to be accomplished by individuals but by the church (not the building, programs, etc.)

I'm looking to take this challenge, not necessarily Platt's challenge, but the challenge of the gospel and what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. It's time to get serious about the gospel - for our sake and for the sake of others. What say you??