THIS AND THAT!

JUST a few things running through my mind:

• Wow, what a great worship service yesterday as we remembered and celebrated the life of Patricia Ott.  God was definitely in the house!
• Is anyone else out there tired of wind?
• And is anyone else out there tired of award shows?
• Just returned from a weekend team meeting in preparation for the next Emmaus Walk in 2 weeks.  I'm on the music team this go round and my "geetar" fingers are killing me.  Oh, I'm supposed to practice?
• "It's all about the story"  - 'nuff said.
• Ate a huge chicken fried steak today.  PLUS cherry pie.  Life is good!
• Is it true that KSU is scheduling all away games next year?
• Just started the series based upon Hamilton's book 24 Hours That Changed The World.  Guaranteed, if Jesus didn't love us, there is no way He would have journeyed to the cross.
• I'm in need of a grandkid fix - all four of them.  Yep, it's pops and mimi time!
• I saw a picture of a gray haired guy from church today - Yikes!!!  That was me!!  Seriously??
• Yep, ML is still the babe of my life!
• Some big-time moves in our conference this year.  That means there is need for some big-time prayer for the congregations and the pastors as they face big-time transitions.
• I must admit, I like the Direct TV commercials - "Get rid of cable".  
• So glad that Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.  No shortcut to Easter!!

Have a great week folks!!

AMAZING GRACE!

I've been meaning to give you a little update regarding the 21 days of prayer and fasting that we were a part of here at MUMC.  Several funerals, meetings, and "divine interruptions" have kept me from doing so, but I currently have a moment to jot down some thoughts.  So here goes.

I must say, it was definitely a spiritual discipline to set aside time each day during the lunch and dinner hour to come to the chapel and worship, hear from a speaker, and pray with others.  Establishing that as "time set apart for God" was great.  It didn't matter if there were two or a dozen in the chapel, that time was special.  I don't believe I would have experienced the presence of God in the same way without setting that time aside.  What a blessing.  And kudos to you who participated.

The 21 days fast was something I'd never done before.  I was on a liquid diet except for a little fruit each day.  (Remember, I'm a meat and potato kind of guy).  And as I mentioned in the last blog, there were some difficult days - day 3, day 6, and expecially day 18.  I was so ready to throw all fruit out the door.  I wanted a hamburger. But, not eating was NOT  the point.  It was dependence upon God that he would be faithful to sustain and nourish me during the 21 days.  And he held true to his promise.  If there was one thing I learned, it was that God's word is faithful and true and he will always supply our every need.  It was during those times of hunger that I redirected my desire for physical food to that of being fed spiritually - prayer, Scripture reading, worship, meditation.  After all, wasn't that the reason, to be drawn closer to God?  To see and hear clearer?  To be more sensitive to God and what he was doing?

I truly did feel that I had a heightened sense of God's presence - both in my life and in the lives of others.  Those who prayed and fasted shared many of the same experiences of a greater awareness to the things of God, a greater desire to worship, and greater desire to become closer to him.  That was a real blessing.

Many lost weight - a good thing.  Many shut off the tv, set aside their video games, exercised, or replaced bad food with nutritious food.  Some fasted mulitiple meals, some a meal a day, some certain foods, some certain drinks, some sweets and candies.  It wasn't about being legalistic, but about being intentional about setting aside time and space for God.  And you know what, when we do that, God comes through - "Seek and you shall find" Scripture reminds us.

On my own I knew I would never make it.  So each day I reminded myself of Jesus' words,"My grace is sufficient".  And just as he promised, it was so.

 Grace indeed!  Amazing grace!!

(P.S.  - If you took part in the Awakening, let me know of your experience.)

PERSEVERING!

I thought I'd give a little update as it relates to the 21 days of fasting and prayer.  I realize that Jesus reminds us not bring attention to ourselves when it comes to fasting and prayer so I want to be careful that you don't misunderstand the intent of this blog.  I just want to let you know a few things that I am learning and observing as I enter the second week of this spiritual discipline.

First of all, I am very pleased at the number of those at MUMC who are participating in the Awakening.  Many are coming daily to the chapel at noon and at six for a time of worship, a devotion, and time to pray.  It's been wonderful and God has blessed that time together.  I also am pleased about the number of people who are fasting in a variety of ways that God might more intimately reveal Himself to them and to us as we move through this season together.  There are many kinds of fasts taking place - some are fasting from certain foods, some from meat, some from soft drinks, some from TV, some from video games, some from one meal a day, some from sweets - all sorts of fasts.  It's not about losing weight or avoiding a tv show or a video game.  It's about setting aside some time and space to pray and fast - to seek God's face and for Him to reveal himself to us as well as to reveal some things about ourselves to us.  And we are beginning to see that take place.

I decided to go on a liquid fast other than a little fruit in the morning and afternoon.  The reasoning was that I wanted to be a part of something only God can do, because you can be sure I will not make it 21 days on my own strength.  Mainly because I like food.  And thus far, it has been because of God's strength, his sustaining power that I've made it 9 days. 

The first 3 days were tough - stomach growling, wanting to eat, and also realizing that I'd conditioned my body to eat in the morning, at noon, and in the evening, whether hungry or not.  It's "just what you do".  Once I got past the 3rd day I did pretty well until the 6th day.  I almost wanted to give up.  Every commercial was about food, everywhere I looked was a picture of food, I had meetings that were surrounded by meals and snacks, and my thoughts centered on my desire to eat a hamburger.  But it was in those moments that I had to really ask God to strengthen me, to sustain me, to nourish me and through those times I have found that he is faithful. And the more I focus on him in prayer and worship, the more my weakness is exchanged for his strength. 

I've also noticed that I have become more aware of my surroundings, to the things that are taking place in people's lives, to the hurts and heartaches of others.  There is a sharper sensitivity to God's prompting in my life that I might have an impact on others, not because of my strengths but because of God working through me.  And I've also seen that occurring in a few others based upon their reactions and responses to others, as well as their sensitivity to God's speaking to them in prayer.  That's awesome, if you ask me.

The point is, when we find ourselves depending upon God, we realize that we experience the "things of God" and begin to get a feel for his heart, his desire, his will for us and others.  Personally, I know I'm not where God wants me to be as of yet.  That is a journey, for sure.  But I believe I am traveling the right road and am excited where it will lead me.

Pray for me.  I'll do the same for you!

"JUST A CLOSER WALK WITH THEE"

For those of you raised in the church, the words to the title of this blog should be familiar to you.  They come from the hymn of the same name - "Just a Closer Walk With Thee".  We've sung this song for years but I wonder if we really mean it.  After all, do we really want to walk closer to God?  Do we really desire to have a relationship with God where we truly surrender all to God that he might use us as He chooses?  The answer?  If we're honest, sometimes yes, sometimes no.  Can you relate?

With that in mind, we at MUMC are embarking on another journey to be intentional about praying and fasting that we might hear, see, and experience God more fully and more clearly.  Tomorrow begins Awakening 2012 - A New Approach to Faith, Fasting, and Spiritual Freedom.  Our desire is to set aside time or establish sacred space in order for us to be more open to God's working in our lives as individuals and as a church.  It will include some worship and prayer during the noon hour and supper hour each day for 21 days in the chapel.  It will include a devotional that people can use to assist them on this spiritual journey.  And it will involve fasting, yes fasting.  Yikes!  (I like to eat). 

The fasting includes a fasting from food, but not food only.  For some, it will be a juice/liquid fast.  For some, it will be a Daniel fast (fruits/vegetables).  For some, one meal per day.  And for those unable to do a food fast, it will be a fast from tv, from the internet, from facebook, from video games, from cigarettes, etc.  The point is, to set aside time and space from food or activities and replacing them with time with God in prayer, reading, and meditation.  The fast is not so much about what we are giving up but what we desire in a relationship with God.

Honestly, I'm a little nervous because the fast I have chosen will only be accomplished with the help of God.  And yet, isn't that what life is all about anyhow?  We don't exist without God and His work in our lives.  Maybe it's time to get a better grip on what that means.  At least that is my desire.

So, I hope you are going to join me on this 21 day journey. We will need each other to hold each other accountable and to encourage each other.  If you are not part of MUMC and are interested, check out the website at www.awake21.org.  Those of you from MUMC, feel free to contact Brian or myself and we'll attempt to answer your questions.

Yes I'm a little nervous.  But more than that, I'm excited!  Let's rock!  God, do your thing!!

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!