BELIEVE IT OR NOT!

Our vision team has been reading and studying a book by Craig Groeschel entitled It- How Churches and Leaders Can Get It and Keep It! It's a great read and has helped guide us in some of our decisions regarding the focus and direction for our church. I was given another book by Groeschel from Todd and Melissa for Father's day entitled The Christian Atheist - Believing in God but Living as if He Doesn't Exist.


Now I havn't read the book as of yet but am very intrigued by the title because it's something I've been thinking about for some time. Do we really believe all that we proclaim when it comes to our faith? Do we really believe in miracles? Do we really believe that God can heal? When we set a budget at church, is it based upon what we believe God desires and wants to do or is it based upon our human limitations? Do we believe in the transformation of lives? Do we believe in the power of the Holy Spirit? Do we believe that God will supply our every need (not wants)? Do we believe that God will empower us to do his work? Do we believe that God answers prayer?


Our lives tell the story. What do our lives say about what we proclaim? Honestly, I've been a Christian atheist before. Probably still am in certain areas in my life. And if you are honest, you can relate. I do know one thing. I want to live a life that reflects what I proclaim to believe. How about you?


I'll read the book and give you my thoughts later. Until then, I choose to believe!

TUESDAY TWEETING!

I'm not sure about this tweeting thing that has swept across the country (or world). I barely can deal with the Facebook thing. But since it's Tuesday and I couldn't think of a "t" word to go with Tuesday, I just came up with tweeting. So there, sue me if you must. But here's a few "tweety" thoughts for you to ponder:

• I read this past week that instead of being frustrated with closed doors, it might behoove you to approach them as divine detours. Think about that!

• I think I am really going to like this grandpa thing. Oh yeah!

• I'm so glad I can talk to my kids about the things of God, the church, spiritual growth, etc. Isn't that the way it's supposed to be?

• Surprised by some friends from out west who came to visit us at church last Sunday and then went to lunch. Bound by the cords of God's love - great to see you Jack and Lois!

• Did I mention elk hunting is only 2 months and 3 days away? But who's counting?

• Guy's advice - don't ever answer your cell phone if you happen to be shopping with your wife and you see it's your buddy calling. Just let it go to the the voice mail!

• Picked up another book entitled theChristianatheist by Craig Groeschel that lifts up the concern of believing in God but living as if He doesn't exist. Hmmmm..........................

• This Sunday - a baptism, 5 persons joining the church, and some testimonies by the youth. Can I get a witness? I should say so!

• God's doing some wonderful things. As I was reminded this past weekend, "Step up, step in, or step back." I say let's step up and step in and get after it! Ya with me?

• So, what's happening in your world? What's God up to in your arena? Let me know. See ya!

MIXING IT UP!

Sunday during worship I mentioned a book entitled Wild Goose Chase by Mark Batterson. Actually ML gave me the CD version and we spent some time listening to it while driving last week while on vacation. It's a great book that speaks of the Wild Goose as a metaphor for the Holy Spirit and that there is a great adventure in "chasing" the wild goose. Batterson speaks of 6 cages that get in the way of our experiencing all that God so much desires for our lives as Christians. The cage of responsibiliy (or irresponsibility), routine, assumption, guilt, fear, and failure. These are areas in our lives that act like cages, little prisons, that can make us innefective believers.

The "cage of routine" jumped out at me. Often we don't realize it, but pretty soon we find ourselves doing the same ole, same ole. We get in a rut of doing the same thing on Monday, then on Tuesday, then on Wednesday, etc. etc. Next we end up just going through the motions without even realizing it and therefore we miss out on what God is doing or what He wants to do in and through us. Thus the need to mix it up a little.

Batterson mentioned the need to change the pace and change the place so that you can change the perspective of what's going on around you - specifically what God is doing around you. For instance, you can go to church week after week, experience the same order of service each and every week, sit in the same pew or chair, sing the same songs in the same order and pray the same prayers. Order and routine are good, but not at the expense of missing out on experiencing God.

So...... why not go on a mission trip, go on a spiritual retreat, attend a Christian conference, go to church camp. Bottom line? Change the pace, change the place, and gain a new perspective of God's desire to work in your life. Experience God in a way that is fresh and exciting because you stepped out of the box a little. Get out of the routine and experience the adventure God has for you.

What say you? Are you willing to mix it up a little? The same ole same ole is..............well, the same ole same ole. Get out of the cage of routine and chase that wild goose. You won't be sorry!

THE BIG "D".

We've been in Dallas a few days spending time with our friends the Rankins. Also, have been able to spend a little time with Kyle and Molly so it's worked out real well. On Tuesday we went into Dallas and toured the 6th Floor Museum from where Lee Harvey Oswald shot President JFK. It was rather surreal to be standing on the same floor and see the window from where the gun was fired to kill the President. It was a self guided tour using a headset to guide a person through the ordeal. The above picture was taken from my phone and is the location where Kennedy was shot as you look back toward the building. The end window on the right on the second floor from the top is where Oswald shot the gun. A rather tumultuous time in our history. People looking for peace then, people searching for peace now. Only one offers that peace - Jesus!

This is a picture of Kyle and a girl named Rachel working with a group of kids at the Casa Linde UMC in Dallas. His group numbered around 20 and they were in the midst of "Deal or no deal". Kyle's theme for the week was game shows and he used that theme to teach kids about God's love. He is loving it, as is his girlfriend Molly. A great experience for both of them. It is a joy to see our kids in ministry. Makes a dad proud. Planning on seeing Kyle and Molly again this evening if it works out on the campus of SMU. We'll see how it goes.

Dallas - a great place to visit but wouldn't want to live there. See ya!

MONDAY MEANDERINGS!

• Great worship yesterday! Invited people to "bring the sacrifice of praise" into the house of the Lord! Hand waving, hand clapping, standing up and praising the Lord expressive kind of worship. Ah yes - good stuff!

• Also, "be still and know that I am God" kind of worship. Sweet!

• World Cup Soccer - Scores like 0-0, 1-0, 1-1???? Really???

• ML keeps telling me to quit griping about the humidity. UGH!!!

• 3 months til elk hunting - but who's counting?? Unfortunately I didn't draw a bull tag, only a cow tag. Pass the anti-depressant. Sad, so sad. Thought I was a shoe-in this year.

• If the Big 12 loses 2 teams , does it become the Big 10? And if the Big 10 gains 2 teams, does it become the Big 12? College sports - ruined by greed!!

• Went fishing with my dad and brother last week. Ask me about the one that got away! Should have thrown the net on the other side of the boat. A good time none-the-less.

• Wheat harvest has begun in the area. (rain has stopped it for now). Reminds me that the fields are ripe for harvest but the laborers are few.

• How many cats roam the streets in Mulvane? Too many!

• Did I mention that I like cherry pie?? And thanks to you who have given me advice where to buy a good hamburger.

• So, what are you reading lately?? Me? Extravagant Worship by Darlene Zschech.

• Busy week this week - getting ready to go on vacation, but first, a wedding (James and Susan) on Saturday.

• Jesus is Lord!! Amen??? Amen!!!

THE HATED "A" WORD - ACCOUNTABILITY!

Proverbs 27:17 says this, "As iron sharpens iron, so one man (person) sharpens another." Last week there was a request to blog on this verse so here we go. In America we find ourselves in a very individualistic culture where "it's all about me", "leave me alone", "it's none of your business". Well, I beg to differ. As Christians, my business is your business and vice versa which then gives us license to hold each other accountable. Now as you all know, that can get a little dicey from time to time because accountability can be perceived as judgmental which then leads to arguments, fighting, even a break in relationship. Yes, there are times when we do become judgmental and that is not healthy. But, there is nothing wrong with a good face to face "discussion" when there is cause for concern. We owe that to each other if we really love and care for each other.


If you notice the picture above, there is a hammer, there is some serious heat, and there will be some reshaping that will take place. The very fact that the words "iron sharpens iron" are used implies some pain, some grunt and groan, some "ouches". But, the intent is to becomer sharp, to grow in maturity, to acknowledge some areas of fault that need to be ground away to become smooth. And often it takes someone to bring that to our attention, or for us to bring it to someone else's attention. That's the accountability that we have to each other as Christians and once we submit ourselves to that, we find that we really do grow and become sharper that we might be used by God in a more efficient way.


I've been involved in some pretty good battles over the years. There has been the sound of iron clashing against iron at times. At times, it has been very productive. At times, well let's just say that either I or the other person(s) chose not to be sharpened. The problem comes when we don't learn from it. I've always said that some of my greatest fights (accountability moments)were with my brother Randy. But he's part of my family and I still love him and will go to bat for him any day. The same holds true with those who I've sharpened a little steel with in the past. And yes, I still care deeply for each of them.


The bottom line is we need each other. It's Jesus' idea that we are to be the "body" of Christ, not the "body part". It's no fun to give yourself a hug - it takes two. And it takes each one of us to be there for one another and yes, hold each one of us accountable. In doing so we become sharp together. Get the point??

PRIORITIES!

Okay, in the latest newsletter I challenged the congregation to be careful of vacationing from church this summer. Not to avoid a vacation from work, but from taking time away from gathering together as brothers and sisters in worship. So often people see summer as a time to worship when it is convenient for them as opposed to making it a priority to set time aside to "bend the knee" before the Creator of the universe. A priority is understood as anything that takes precendence over something else because it is deemed as more important (my definition). Unfortunately, worship often takes a back seat to the many activities that take place during the summer - sports, going to the lake, camping, yard work, or just plain sleeping in.


Now, before you get upset with what I am about to say, hear me out. I love sports. My boys played in sports in junior high, high school, and college. But in the same breath, I hate sports because of what its done to our kids. It has gone from a once in a blue moon game on Sundays to an every weekend affair - basketball, football, baseball, soccer, you name it. And the age of the kids playing are younger and younger each year. Sadly, the church has quietly watched as the once "sacred Sunday morning" has given way to the "I've got a game this Sunday" mindset. And because the church has failed to say that worshiping the Lord together is a priority, the children come under the belief that going to church is "what we do when there is nothing else going on". And then we wonder why the youth have no concept of God's love, his mercy, his justice, his grace, his forgiveness, his call to obedience. It's because our priorities are skewed.


I am not naive enough to believe that a ball game on a Sunday will cost a person his/her salvation. What I am talking about is placing God first in our lives and taking a stand, even if "all the other kids do it". I just know that my oldest son was on a Legion team and other teams in high school and after high school. But the coaches knew that Sunday mornings he would be in worship and then would join them later. (Yes, there were some times he was gone). The coaches knew up front that church was important and they honored that decision. I realize that not every coach or manager would be as gracious, but priorities are priorities, no matter how others perceive them.


Like I said before, I love sports, I love fishing, camping, things like that. But I love the Lord more than all of these. I know that one day I will stand before the Lord and be held accountable. I also know that the only thing that will matter will be my relationship with him through faith in Jesus. I yearn for him to say "well done, good and faithful servant" which would reflect my priority of making Jesus Lord of my life. It won't be my batting average, how big a fish I caught, how well I water ski, or how well I can kick a ball. It will be about relationship with Christ and whether I responded in obedience to his call to "worship him in spirit and in truth".


Ah yes, priorities. What say you?

NEEDED- COMMENTS!!!

Okay, here's the deal. I started a blog 3 different times tonight and ended up deleting each one. So, it's up to you. You choose the topic. I'll blog. it's that simple. So click on the "comments" below. Write your thoughts. Give it time to post and then I'll respond.


As my grandpa would say, 'Praise the Lord, anyhow!"

NEXT WEEK!

Sorry folks - no blog this week. Annual Conference in Salina. I shall return!

ANOTHER STEP

It's that time again - graduation. Another step, moving from one stage of life to another. Yesterday, Mulvane held its commencement exercises in the morning in the auditorium due to the rain. But the seniors graduated, nonetheless. Congrats! My nephew Evan's graduation party was in Hillsboro in the afternoon so we went and helped him celebrate (along with a bunch of family and friends). Had a great time. Next weekend we will be in Leoti on Saturday to see a bunch of the kids graduate whom I had the privilege to pastor (baptize and confirm, too) while out west. Looking forward to it. On Sunday afternoon we will head to El Dorado for my other nephew's (Adam) graduation. Fun times.

It's been a lot of fun to see many of these kids grow up, both as family and as friends. The greatest joy is to see how many of them have grown in their faith in Jesus Christ. And I'm so proud to have been a part of their lives in one way or another. Yesterday, at Evan's party there was a picture of me baptizing him down at the creek near his house. How cool was that? And watching and being with many of the kids in both their victories and their struggles, especially as it pertained to the faith, has been such a blessing.

So to all you graduates, congratulations! And cling to the words found in Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart. And lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight".

NOT TO US O LORD!

One of my favorite verses in Scripture has to do with worship and our submission to God. It comes from Psalm 115:1 - "Not to us O Lord, not to us but to your name be glory....".

• I've been thinking a lot about worship lately and am convinced that too often we in the church have it backwards. We go to church with the mindset that it's all about us. The time we go to church is often based upon personal preference. We attend 'traditional" or "contemporary" or "blended" services because it's what "we" like best. Many times the music chosen is geared more for the musicians, the band, the singers (soloists or large choirs) than how it might lead someone into the Holy of Holies where one can experience the living God. The tendency to think that music is what defines worship misses the point. Now don't get me wrong, I love music - all kinds. But it is only one means of leading people to "experiencing God". It is not the end, just a means. The prelude, the call to worship, the prayers, the giving of tithes and offerings, the children's time, the preached Word and response to it, the lighting of the candles, the reading of the Word, the times of joys and concerns - all of these and more are part of worship and all are intended to take our eyes off of self and focus on God's face that we might enjoy and experience His magnificent presence.

• That's why the verse from Psalm 115 speaks so loudly to me - "The glory, the honor, the focus, the attention, the majesty is not about us, it is not to be directed to us, but to "You" O Lord. It is to 'Your" name that all glory is to be given". That's what our worship is to be about - ascribing all that we are and all who we are to the One who is worthy. Like the song - "Thou art worthy, thou art worthy, thou art worthy O Lord. To receive glory, glory and honor, glory and honor and power." If we could just take our eyes off of ourselves, fix our eyes upon Jesus, submit to Him and offer Him all of ourselves and not be so worried about what others might be thinking of us, then we might be able to "taste and see that the Lord is good".

• Those of you who know me know how important the flow of worship is to me. It's just like traffic. You don't drive 20 mph in a 7o mph zone or vice-versa. The flow has to be right or it becomes an accident waiting to happen. The same holds true for worship. If we approach worship in a haphazard way, it is an accident waiting to happen because the focus is wrong and we end up quenching the Spirit. Oh that we would not quench the Spirit! Forgive us Lord when we do!

• For you who might be reading this blog, no matter where you are from, I urge you to check your heart as it pertains to worship - both in your individual setting as well as your corporate (church) setting. Is it about you, your likes, dislikes, preferences, habits, traditions, etc.? If so, can you honestly say you have experienced the living and holy God in your life? I would challenge and encourage you (and me) to 'lay it down", to offer the totality of ourselves to the One who has given the totality of Himself to us through the life, death, and resurrection of His Son Jesus. As we do so, let us all cry out together "Not to us O Lord, not to us but to Your name be glory!"

A "GRAND(DADDY) DAY"

Sunday I had the privilege to dedicate my granddaughter to the Lord in our 10:45 worship service. Adelyn, daughter of my middle son Eric and wife Andrea, was as cute as can be as she entertained the congregation realizing that she might as well take advantage of an audience that was watching her every move. Addy tried to eat the microphone while Eric was sharing his and Andrea's desire to raise her in the Christian faith and in a Christian home. And after the prayer of dedication, she hammed it up for all who would pay attention. I must say that I am extremely blessed to have Christian children who yearn for "their" children to be followers of Jesus Christ. My boys are Christian. Their wives are Christian (well, Kyle is not yet married but you can be sure she will be a Christian), and now our grandchildren are growing up in the faith. What a joy! ML and I are so proud of our family and thank God daily for each one of their lives. ML - Todd, Melissa, Owen, Aubryn - Eric, Andrea, Brayden, and Adelyn, and Kyle - I love you all!

Addy and Gramps during her dedication service.

Brayden helping Gramps. Isn't he handsome?

CONFIRMED!!

Wow, what a great celebration (233 in attendence) we had yesterday during the 9:30 worship service as 17 of our young men and women were confirmed (3 were also baptized) and took the vows of membership to join the Mulvane UMC. I am very proud of these kids as they worked hard in class for these past 13 weeks, doing weekly homework, learning Scripture verses, learning the books of the Bible, memorizing the Apostle's creed, and growing in their understanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. It was a great time together!

I want to thank Kit for assisting me each week and also all the mentors who attended the class and met individually with the kids. Your help was invaluable. Also thanks to those who provided meals each week. Great stuff. And of course, thanks to the parents for your support as well.

It was such a joy to see God work in the lives of these youth these past several months. And then to see God do His thing during our worship time yesterday - wow! It was awesome!! So congratulations to the youth. May God bless you and grow you into the spiritually mature men and women He wants you to be.

Those baptized and confirmed:

Lizzy Hampton

Mitchell Parsons

Keely Rocha

Those also confirmed:

Bryant Belden

Austin Bell

Jordan Boden

Jordan Craft

Taylor Cusick

Shelby Endres

Taylor Heersche

Zach May

KaSandra Melick

Olivia Naccarato

Patrick Osner

Alicia Riley

Amber Warne

Emily Westfall

BE STILL!

I know you can't believe this but I have a little trouble sitting still. I'm what might be known as a type-A kind of guy, a little on the extroverted side. But this afternoon I took a little time to "stop and smell the roses". I took a couple of hours to try out the lawn furniture near the front door and enjoyed the beautiful day that God created (a little reading, a little praying, a lot of loafing). In fact, I'm still sitting outside marveling at how gorgeous a day it is - no wind, no mosquitos, sunny, beautiful trees, and birds singing all around me. Absolutley incredible! It's been awhile since I've been able to slow down and enjoy a day like this and I didn't want to miss out.


A verse that comes to mind is from Psalm 46:10 that says this, "Be still and know that I am God". I am once again reminded that I miss out on experiencing God or feeling His presence because I am always on the go. The bottom line - when I am too busy going here and going there, doing this and doing that, I miss out on God. Not good! I don't want to miss out. And I don't think you want to miss out either.


So why not take a moment to stop what you are doing, quiet yourself, and focus on God. I tried to link a song by Stephen Curtis Chapman to this blog but for some reason it failed. So if you'd like, google "Be Still" by Chapman and meditate on the words of the song. It will do your heart good. Shhhh........

AND THEN THERE WERE FOUR!

If you havn't heard, God blessed us with our 4th grandchild this past week. Aubryn Ella Just was born on Thursday, April 8, at 10:30 a.m. in Salina. Aubryn weighed in at 6# 14 oz. and measured 20 inches long. Mom and dad (Melissa and Todd), along with older brother Owen, welcome Aubryn into their family.

Aubryn taking a nap Sunday afternoon. Our family got together and celebrated a late Easter, Kyle's 20th birthday, and Aubryn's first weekend at home.

Big brother Owen holding Aubryn. He is not quite sure what to make of it all. It will be fun to watch how Owen deals with another little one in the house. Stay tuned.

This is my favorite pic of Aubryn on day 1. Look how peaceful she looks.

(Not to mention how cute)

Gramps and Grammy with little Aubryn. It's going to be fun to spoil another little girl.

We've been so blessed to have such wonderful grandkids. First Brayden. Then Owen. Then Addy. Now Aubryn. Each time ML and I just marvel at what a miracle the birth of a child is. I am reminded of the scripture that says, "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (Psalm 139:13-14). Aubryn's birth once again reminds me of God's miraculous working in the creation of His children - yes indeed - fearfully and wonderfully made!

'BLOG THOUGHTS"

After a busy busy Holy Week I find myself a little "weak in the brain". I asked ML, "Do you have any blog thoughts?" She just laughed implying that I was on my own. That's scary, but let me reflect on some of the happenings of this past week:

• Obviously, the murder of our friend, Ann Schumacher, came as a total shock and we (and our friends) are still processing and attempting to make sense of the tragedy. The "whys" and the "ifs" will never be answered, but one thing I know, death did not defeat Ann. Make no mistake about it, she now experiences the victory of everlasting life because of her faith in Jesus Christ!

• The Holy Thursday (Maundy Thursday) was a true experience of God's grace at work. As people came to the Lord's table to share in Holy Communion, they first "nailed to the cross" those things that were inhibiting their relationship with the Lord. It was a powerful image to see the cross covered with purple pieces of paper signifying the request for Jesus' forgiveness and for Him to remove sin and heartache. It was a sacramental moment.

• The Good Friday service began with our focus on the cross and ended in darkness and silence. The focus was on the question "Have You Seen My Son?" asked by the mothers of James and John, John Mark, Barabbas, Judas,and of course, Mary, the mother of Jesus. Anna and Simeon narrated the drama and it only took moments for us to identify with the plights of the mothers - heartache, pain, grief, compassion, sadness, tears, mourning! One candle remained lit as we left the room. It offered a glimmer of hope.

• And then the Son rose. He is risen! He is risen, indeed!! Sunday morning began with a sunrise service at the main street park west of the church. How awesome it was as the youth led the service in word and in drama. (See Amy Nelson's blog for details). We then shared in a time of fellowship at the church - rolls, fruit, coffee, juice, even a chocolate fountain. How sweet (literally). Then came "THE MAIN EVENT!" Two worship services celebrating the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Praise band, video, choir, congregational singing, prayer, preaching, rejoicing - it was an incredible morning of worship. Jesus was in the house, not in the grave!! Oh that we would worship in such a manner each and every Sunday! Yes, He is risen, He is risen, indeed!!

• Oh yeah, a little family time as well. Went to my folks for an afternoon of fun (lots of it) - my 2 brothers and their families, our son Eric and wife Andrea, Brayden and Addy as well as Kyle and Molly were there. Only Todd and his wife Melissa and Owen could not be there. Which leads to my last thought.

• Melissa is to have her baby any moment. How wonderful to talk about new birth when this week began with the celebration of new birth that is available to us because of the resurrected Christ. Knowing a new grandchild is about to be born, I like the words of the song 'Because He Lives" that say this: "How sweet to hold, a newborn baby, and feel the joy and pride he/she gives, but greater still, the strong assurance, this child can face uncertain days, because He lives".

• What a week it's been. Praise the Lord!! Prayerfully I'll have pics of a baby next week.

IN MEMORY

IN LOVING MEMORY OF ANN KATHLEEN SCHUMACHER

FEBRUARY 4, 1966 - MARCH 23, 2010

MONDAY MEANDERINGS!

• I'm thinkin that a few folks need to exchange March Madness for March Gladness!

• Thoughts on the newly passed Healthcare bill? A little behind the scenes bribery? If you do this.............I'll do this. Nothing new under the sun.

• Officiated a funeral today - so what would be the point if there was no hope after the grave?

• Try reading John chapters 11-13 this week and see if you can grasp it all. Lots of layers. Work through it slowly. It will do your soul good.

• Only 6 months til elk hunting with Craig and the 2 bros. Shhhh, can you hear the bugling?

• My wife is still the babe of my life. It's about time for a date night.

• ML and I have decide to jot down our "God moments", those times that we know that we know that we know that God is present and actively at work in our midst. Why not join us and we'll compare notes.

• I work with a great staff at the church - thanks Lorna, Vicky, Amy, Tracy, and Kit for all you do.

• The Lenten journey continues. I pray I will complete the journey with Christ without veering to the left or to the right.

• Palm Sunday on the 28th. Let's not exchange our shouts of "Hosanna!" on Sunday with cries of "Crucify Him!" a week from Friday.

• Blessings to you all. Comments are always welcome.

POUR ME A CUP!

Okay, you're wondering what in the world is going on. Me too. But here's the deal. Last week M.L and I stopped by a coffee shop owned by Doug Harder, a friend of ours in Garden City. We ordered a couple of different blends, sat down with Doug, and proceeded to share in some great coffee and great conversation. It had been a long time since we'd taken the time to just sit down and share a cup of coffee together. In actuality, it was a God moment. Time with my wife and time with our friend without feeling like we were under the gun to be somewhere or do something within the next hour - priceless!

It reminded me of our vacation in Hawaii several years ago. We went on a cruise and every morning we would grab a cup of coffee, find a quiet spot on the deck, and then sit down and enjoy the view, the fresh air, the coffee, and each other. ML's sister and hubby would often join us. Ah yes, the simple things in life are sometimes the greatest.

Sadly, it's been so hectic as of late that even though the coffee has been brewed and poured, it has been "grab-and-go" - no time taken to just sit, relax, converse, enjoy each other's company. I don't think that's the way it's supposed to be. In fact, I "know" it's not the way it's supposed to be. So now what?

Well, I'm not asking you to pity me - it's my own fault for letting things get so crazy busy. I am asking you to hold me accountable, however. It's about priorities. It's about enjoying time with my wife and my friends. It's about slowing down and "smelling the coffee". It's about enjoying the simple things. It's about paying attention to the God moments that often come when sitting down and enjoying something as down-to-earth as a cup of coffee. God meets us in a variety of ways. Why not when drinking a cup of coffee?

P.S. - The coffee's on. Stop on by!

GRACE DISCOVERED!!

I just returned from assisting with what is known as the "Walk to Emmaus", a 72 hour spiritual formation weekend. I worked behind the scenes for the men's walk a week ago but was the spiritual director for the women's walk this past weekend. Wow, did God ever do His thing!


Without going into all the details, it was disheartening to listen to all the struggles, hear all of the pain and the heartache, and see all of the tears that were shed because of deep hurt that so consumed many of the women who participated in the walk. But, as God would have it, He drew them to the foot of the cross where the women were able to leave their burdens and be freed from that which had so entangled them.


And it was all because of a new understanding of grace, God's unconditional love offered to us without price. This is such a hard concept for people because we live in a culture that says we've got to "earn" it, whatever "it" is. So we work hard. We work and work and work and still feel miserable. As a result we carry more and more burdens. Then we work some more and it becomes a viscious cycle. Then insecurity sets in, rejection rears its ugly head, the pressure to measure up weighs us down. And soon we find ourselves incapacitated.


Yet in the midst of it all God offers us His grace, his love that is based upon what He has done through His son Jesus Christ, not what we could ever do. John 3:16 says that "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." Our response is merely that of belief, of faith in Jesus. Sin is then forgiven and burdens are lifted and relationship with God and others is restored. Why carry all that junk around when Jesus has come to take it away? In fact Jesus himself said, "Come to me, you who are heavy burdened and I will give you rest".


That's what happened in the lives of so many of the women this past wekend. They were able to respond to God's love and let Jesus remove their pain and heartache. It was amazing! Simply amazing! No wonder we sing amazing grace!!

update - that's all!

Just got back from meetings in Salina and the Men's Walk to Emmaus - very powerful as usual! God met the guys right where they were at and opened their eyes and their hearts to a new relationship with Him. Board of Ordained Ministry meetings the last 2 days in Salina - some great candidates for ordination this year -exciting. Got to play with Owen for a moment as well - nothin like being a gramps! Heading to Garden City Thursday morning for the Women's walk (I'm the spiritual director the walk and ML is on the music team). Keep us in your prayers. Gotta go! Bless you all!!!!

MONDAY MEANDERINGS!

• I kind of feel like Willie Nelson this week - "On the road again". Leaving Thursday for Garden City for the Men's Walk to Emmaus weekend. Finish up on Sunday afternoon and then head to Salina for a couple days of meetings. Come back to Mulvane for Wednesday to "catch up" a little. And then return to Garden City to direct the Women's Walk to Emmaus through Sunday. I spoke about focus last Sunday - dare I say I need to stay focused??

• I'm loving the Winter Olympics. Some day I'm gonna go ( no, not to compete - unless it's curling - ha!).

• Unbelievable blog by Amy Nelson (amynelsonmon.blogspot.com) last Sunday morning. She had no idea what I was preaching that day but our thoughts were identical. Pretty cool how God works. (Take a look at her blog from Sunday). By the way, Amy is no relation to Willie.

• Jerry - all I can say is this - "flexibility brother, flexibility".

• So many songs, so little time!

• If you could see one thing take place in the church, what would it be?

• I find out a year ago on the 20th that we were moving to Mulvane. Wow! What a difference a year makes!

• I have 2 wonderful daughter-in-laws whose birthdays are this month - Melissa's is today, Andrea's was on the 4th. They are a blessing! My boys done good!!

• My wife finished up with the taxes today. She deserves a gold medal for her work! I'm thinkin a date night would be good (or how about a cruise to Hawaii?)

• Still excited about the 1980 hockey win over the Soviet Union. Do you believe in miracles? Yes!!

• PRAISE THE LORD ANYHOW!!

GOING FOR THE GOLD!

Well, here we go again. Another Winter Olympic games is upon us. Personally, I love the winter games much more than those in the summer. The downhill skiing, the giant slalom, the ski jumps, the speed skating, the bobsledding, the luge, and yes, even a little figure skating does the soul good. These events, as well as the others I failed to mention, are incredible to watch. I can't imagine what it would be like to actually be one of the athletes. What a rush!

It is amazing to me that these athletes spend thousands upon thousand of hours preparing for a few minutes of competetion with the hope of taking home the gold medal. And with the Olympics occurring only once every four years, one slip, one false move, one fall can mean the difference between the possibility of bringing home a medal or just chalking it up to "the experience". And yet, the reality is that only a few ever get the chance to stand on the podium. So what's the deal? Why bust it when the odds are so slim to medal? And why jump right back into training when it will be 4 years before the next winter games?

It has to do with passion - the passion to win within their respective sport. The passion to prioritize life to do whatever it takes to be in shape. The passion to grunt and groan, to push the limit, to train day in and day out. The passion to do the best and be the best. The passion to keep on keeping on even in the midst of danger (so unfortunate for the luge athlete from Georgia).

Could you imagine the impact the church would have on communities and the world if we had the same kind of passion for the gospel and for others to know and experience Christ as athletes do for the Olympics? Maybe it's time we follow the example of our athletic friends, discern and develop our passion, and not only do whatever it takes to get in shape, but stay in shape. The prize awaits!

WEEKLY WONDERINGS!

I WONDER....

• If Spring is coming?
• If Peyton is having nightmares?
• If the Saints are acting like saints?
• If anyone under 40 ever heard of the Who?
• If anyone cares about pro basketball?
• What the thorn in Paul's side was?
• If it's possible?
• If not, why not?
• How we can help the family who lost their children in the fire?
• What we should study in the men's Bible study?
• Why people only take the dollar bill when the million is available?

• What if........................?
  

NO EXCUSE!

COLORADO SNOW

KANSAS SNOW

I've been reading from the book of Romans the past few days and was reminded of God's revelation of Himself in nature. Hear these words, "For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities - his eternal power and divine nature - have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse" (Rom. 1:20).

Maybe we can't "see" God like we see each other, but we can see and experience all He has created. As a result, we find ourselves having no excuse in believing that God Himself exists. His creation speaks loudly! The beauty and awe of all that surrounds us shouts out that there is a Creator. As you can see in the pictures above, the snow, the trees and the shrubs all reveal Someone beyond ourselves. Indeed, His invisible qualities become visible. What we don't always understand becomes more comprehensible. And ultimately it all points to God.

What is it in God's creation that reveals Himself to you? I'll bet you can't limit it to one example.

MONDAY MEANDERINGS

Hmmm, let me see.........

• Brett Favre - not necessarily a smart decision at the end of regulation, huh?
• The Saints - soon to be the Ain'ts thanks to Indy!
• Now what????? Soon to find out.
• Why live under the Law when Jesus frees us up??
• Any Mulvanites interested in participating in the upcoming Walk to Emmaus weekend?
  
• Conan O'Brian - $45 million buyout? What's wrong with this picture?
• I love sports, however...............sports have become the god of America.
• 1970 Blue Plymouth Roadrunner - beep beep!
• My brother Rod has joined the facebook world - THE END IS NEAR!!
• My nephew Adam scored 24 points against Kapaun - taught him everything he knows.
• My grandaughter Addy is a shoo in for most beautiful baby in the world!
• Reminder - dreams without action remain dreams!
• Vision - a picture of the future that produces passion!
• I've noticed too many people attempting to be who the world wants them to be in contrast to who God wants them be.
• I think it would BEHOOVE us all to "Be still, and know that I am God" - Psalm 46:10

Have a great week!! - PR

REFLECTIONS - rEfLECtioNs

As you can see, various groups gathered at tables to read and study scriptures that dealt with visioning and the role of the Spirit in that visioning (Ezekiel 37, Acts 2, and others).

It was a great day at Camp Horizon this past Saturday. Our first (dare I say "annual") spiritual retreat to seek God's face, worship, pray, study, laugh, and have just a wonderful time together. Thanks to all of you who gave up your Saturday to participate. It is very much appreciated! We gathered together, not to plan, but to enter into God's presence and we were not disappointed.

A few reflections as it relates to the day:

• If nothing else, God united us as a group of members of the MUMC who may have never otherwise gathered to discern God's will for our lives. Persons who attend all 3 services were represented, all age groups were represented, and all hearts gathered together as one to worship our Lord. What a blessing!
• There is an intentional desire to grow spiritually as a church.
• There is a desire to worship God. It was evident. Thanks Lorna for leading us in prayer and thanks Jerry for assisting on the guitar - awesome!
• I was thrilled to see the small groups where each person prayed. That's where the power is. (Even if it gets you out of your comfort zone).
• The Holy Spirit was present.
• There is an openness to new things. But as Mary reminded us, how willing are we to do what God is asking us to do? How obedient will we be?

Let us covenant to pray that God will clarify the vision He is placing before us as a church. And let us pray that we will be willing and obedient to that vision.

BURIED!

Sorry, folks. No blog this week. I'll get back to you next week!


PR

WELCOME TO 2010!

Okay, here we go. Another new year is before us. Now what??? Well, here's a few thoughts:

1. This past year I have been reminded of how much my family means to me. Now that we're closer to them, I plan to see them more (especially those little grandkids because it is my duty to spoil them).
2. I'm also reminded of the great friends we have made over the years. I never want to take them for granted and am thankful to God for such special folks.
3. Moving is never easy. Transitions can be difficult. I'm in no mood for another move anytime soon. We believe God has called us to Mulvane as difficult as it was to pack up and leave and thankfully we are beginning to see some of the fruit of the ministry here. Looking forward to what is in store for us this year.
4. My wife is the love of my life and true partner in ministry. Couldn't do it (or wouldn't do it) without her.
5. Yes, elk hunting is already on the calendar.
6. I've got to figure out how to get time to read and study. Havn't completed a book since the move.
7. Need to find a getaway place in this area. Any ideas?
8. Retiring the 6 shooter?
9. Talking less, listening more? That will take much prayer.
10. And yes, Jesus is Lord of 2010!!

There's Nothing Like Family!

We were blessed to have the kids and their families here to celebrate Christmas on Saturday. About didn't happen due to snow and ice in the Topeka area but Eric's made it here around 12:30 - just in time for big dinner - good timing! The grandbabies were a blast, but I forgot how busy little ones can be. But enjoyed every minute of it. God has blessed us with such wonderful boys - Todd, Eric, and Kyle and marvelous daughter-in-laws - Melissa and Andrea. And of course, they have doubly blessed us with beautiful grandchildren - Brayden, Owen, and Adelyn. God has graced us with a family that loves each other and loves Jesus as Savior and Lord.

It JUST doesn't get any better than that!!!

Little Addy jumping for joy!

Owen playing us all a song on the guitar.

Brayden hamming it up for the camera!

FOOD, FUN, AND FELLOWSHIP! AND MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Had a lot of fun last Saturday at the parsonage open house. So glad so many of you were able to come. It was a good day to get into the spirit of Christmas!!

My sister-in-law Janelle, youngest son Kyle, and his girlfriend Molly. They decided it was their job to make sure the food table was properly guarded and all plates kept full of goodies.

Candy, John, Deb, Barbara, and Janet solving all the world's problems.

Wait a minute! Didn't we just see Barbara and Candy in the previous picture?? We also see Bethany, Joe, and Mike eating, drinking, and making merry!

Ah yes, the table was loaded with all sorts of meats and cheeses, crackers, vegatables, dips, and drinks. Notice the first little sign - "Elk Meatballs". They were a big hit. If Candy wouldn't have eaten so many there would have been enough for everyone.

On a more serious note, I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! I pray that you will experience the love of God who gave His One and only Son that we might have life, abundant life, both now and for eternity. As we celebrate the birth of Christ this Friday it is my prayer that we will join the angels as we lift our voices together singing, "Joy to the World, the Lord is come, let earth receive her King".

THOUGHTS (or something like that)!

Yes, indeed! This is me after a crazy Tuesday. Just getting home tonight and thinking about what to write. Not too sure. We'll see what transpires..........................


A funeral yesterday. A funeral tomorrow. Praise the Lord for eternal life by virtue of faith in Christ!

Speaking of the funeral yesterday, you Leoti folks caught my emotions off guard. Nothing like driving 275 miles so I could cry in front of you all.

The elk has finally found its home in our freezer. Now to serve it for our open house on Saturday (wink,wink).

It's funny how many people read this here blog. You must have too much time on your hands.

This Sunday will be the big Christmas Sunday! You don't think I'll be stoked?

I live right next to Wichita and all the stores but would rather just get on the internet and order stuff and be done with it.

My Grandson Owen pulled down the Christmas tree, lined up all the gold ornament balls, and proceeded to smack them around the house with a plastic golf club. How funny is that?

How about a sermon series focusing on country song titles? (Achy breaky heart, Ring of Fire, Lookin for love in all the wrong places, Giddy up go, Paper Roses, Heaven's just a sin away, etc...) That series could last all year.

I still like cherry pie (In case you were wondering).

Someone needs to give Kevin Clark spell check for his computer. It would behoove him to at least spell the words correctly if he is going to pontificate or bloviate.

Hints for a present for Mary Lou??? Shhh... don't tell her.

God is still doing His thing! Aren't you glad??

PONDERING!

Seems like the blog may have gone its course. Very few comments as of late. Maybe I'll put it to rest. What say you?

MONDAY MEANDERINGS

Some thoughts for you to ponder - some serious, others....well....................

So, if Tiger Woods has nothing to hide,what's the deal?

Tomorrow is December and today is around 60 degrees?

Saw all the grandkids last week. It doesn't get any better than that!

Have you seen the MUMC church commercial yet? All I want for Christmas is.......

I'm surprised how many people know very little about Advent.

Facebook! What do you think about the social network?

MTV - it's absolutely worthless and has no redeeming value whatsoever and yet so many of our kids watch it. Parents, do you realize what's on that channel?

Notre Dame just fired their football coach. What will KU do?

Tim Tebo - Now there's a class act!

Read a devotion this morning that suggested a simpler Christmas. Good idea, don't you think?

So many songs, so little time.

Jesus is still Lord!!!!

SO MUCH, SO MUCH, SO MUCH TO BE THANKFUL FOR!

Once again we gather together this week as friends and family to celebrate the many blessings that have been bestowed upon us from our heavenly Father. So often we take for granted all that we have but it is my prayer this year that we will be intentional about offering our thanks to God for all His many provisions.


Personally I am so grateful for my family - my parents, ML's parents, my brothers and their families, ML's siblings and families, my wife (so very thankful), my boys and their wives (no, Kyle does not have a wife), and of course, the grandkids. What a blessing to have such a great family.

As I mentioned in church yesterday, I am so thankful for good friends, for this great country, and for the church (the body of Christ). I am thankful for the opportunities I've been given to minister in many areas of this state (as well as this country) and am so blessed to have met so many wonderful folks. I'm also so appreciative to be able to experience God's creation - in the flatlands of Kansas to the high mountains of Colorado to the humidity of Mulvane (trees grow where it's humid). The evidence of a Creator is all around us to be sure.

But most of all I'm thankful for Jesus who gave his life on the cross for me and for you that we might live in right relationship with our heavenly Father. I'm thankful that I don't have to earn God's love but by responding to his grace (his unconditional love) by faith, I am assured life, abundant life both now and for eternity.

And yes, for that my heart gives thanks.

HERE I AM TO WORSHIP!

Michael W. Smith acknowledging the Lord as the One who is worthy.

(Sorry about the quality- phone picture)

Leading us in worship - a great night!

Had the great privilege to go with a group from church to the Michael W. Smith concert last night at Central Christian Church and I was NOT disappointed. We had VIP tickets and got there early (thanks Jerry). The result - front row seat for our group. Unbelievable!! I've been craving a worship service like this for some time and we were led into the throne room of God with both outward expressive songs as well as "on your knees, reflective praise" to the Lord. I absolutely loved "Agnus Dei" which comes from the book of Revelation - "Alleluia.... worthy is the Lamb, worthy is the Lamb, Amen"! Worship - ascribing to God all that we are and all who we are to the One who is worthy. And that's what we did - we worshipped the Lord - all 5,000 or so of us as one body lifting up the name of Jesus. How sweet it was and continues to be. If you get a chance, pick up a copy of "A New Hallelujah" either CD or DVD. It's well worth the money. In the meantime, "I feel it, I feel it, I feel it in my bones and I just don't think I can hold it anymore..."

MOUNTAIN TOP EXPERIENCE!

Well, an unbelievable elk hunting trip in the Rockies. All five of us were successful. That never happens. We arrived on Thursday the 29th after fighting a snow storm from Limon to Denver. Some parts of Denver received between 20 -30 inches of snow. But we made it safely. There was snow where we hunted (and camped) and it was quite cold but it worked out great for the hunt. And the beauty of the mountains - God outdid Himself once again. It was indescribable. No wonder we sing "How Great Thou Art!"

Below are a few pics.

This was the view outside our tent each morning! How cool is that?

The crew - Tyrone, Mike, Dennis, Craig and me.


Craig cheesing it up laying on the hide of his bull elk. He shot his on Tuesday evening.

I had an antlerless license. I shot this cow at 7:45 am on Monday morning.

HIGHER GROUND!

"I lift up my eyes to the hills - where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121:1-2


Gearing up for a mountain top experience. Time with God, His creation, and good friends. Full report to follow. Blessings to you all!

STILL WALKING!

Just completed another Walk to Emmaus - Men's Walk #95 in Wichita. As always, God did His thing, opening the eyes of men who all of a sudden found themselves in the presence of the living Christ. And what a joy to be a part of another walk. From the send off on Thursday to the closing on Sunday, I was able to observe God's Spirit work in such a way to bring about healing, wholeness, and transformation in the lives of men of all ages.

Thanks to all who worked behind the scenes. Thanks to the sponsors of those who attended. Thanks to the team, both lay and clergy who showed what it meant to offer and live out God's unconditional love. Thanks to the community who showed the support as well as those who prayed throughout the weekend. And thanks for allowing me to be the community spiritual director. I am very appreciative to you and humbled by your support.

And now it's time for the women's walk #96 this weekend. You go girls!

De Colores!!

ALL ABOUT GOD!

These past few nights I have been speaking at a church in Newton - a time of renewal and restoration. What I've really enjoyed is the various methods and styles of worship that has taken place. Sunday night the praise team from Mulvane, Leap of Faith, led the time of musical worship. They did an awesome job leading us into the throne room of God. What a blessing!

Last night, a group (whom I've known for years - Bob and the boys) led worship. Their instruments included a keyboard, a lead guitar, a bass guitar, and 2 trumpets. Awesome music. Far different than Sunday night, but a blessing just the same.

Tonight, some of the members of the church where I am preaching will lead worship. Believe it or not, they are a bluegrass band. How cool is that? I will follow with a little music of my own on the guitar.

Tomorrow I will be speaking at Southwestern College and you can be sure a praise team from the college will lead us in worship. And the rest of the week I will be involved in the Walk to Emmaus in Wichita where yet another style of worship will lead us into the presence of God.

I say all this because it's all about God, not about us. And to experience God through a variety of means is so exciting to me because God is a big God who doesn't get worked up about style near as much as we do. His desire is that we worship him, that we focus on him, that our attention be given to the One who is worthy - God alone.

So, as I meander my way through this week, I find it an awesome time to be serving the Lord. And as much as I enjoy the worship that is taking place, I can only imagine how pleased God is when our focus is upon Him. Praise the Lord from whom all blessings flow!!

Monday Meanderings!

• Only 23 days til elk hunting - but who's counting?
• Fall - the best time of the year! Without question.
• Jesus is still Lord! No matter what "stuff" we face.
• Meetings, meetings, meetings................................
• In ministry, what if....money was no issue?
• Vision - a picture of the future that produces passion. So what's your passion?
• My family. #1 in my books!
• I've only got to see 1 high school fball game. Mulvane has only lost once. Not sure I have any more open Friday nights - how sad is that?
• 1 year older last Sunday - boy do I feel it!
• Victory in Jesus! Sorry devil, that's just the way it is.
• Christianity is personal but it is not private! Thus the need for the church.
• Get to see the kids and grandkids this Saturday -oh yeah!
• One of these days......................................................................