Pastor Russ' Blog

One Solitary Life

2010-12-23T10:18:00.000-08:00

I copied this from an All Pro Dad Email that I received today. Thought I'd share it with everyone.

One Solitary Life

In 1926, Dr. James A. Francis wrote, "Here is a man who was born in an obscure village, the child of a peasant woman. He grew up in another obscure village. He worked in a carpenter shop until He was thirty, and then for three years He was an itinerant preacher. He never wrote a book. He never held an office.

He never owned a home. He never set foot in a big city. He never traveled two hundred miles from the place where He was born. He had no credentials but Himself. While still a young man, the tide of popular opinion turned against Him. His friends ran away. One of them denied Him. He was turned over to His enemies. He went through the mockery of a trial. He was nailed upon a cross between two thieves.

His executioners gambled for the only piece of property He had on earth while He was dying – and that was His coat. When He was dead, He was taken down and laid in a borrowed grave through the pity of a friend.

Twenty-one centuries have come and gone, and today He is the centerpiece of the human race and the leader of progress. All the armies that ever marched, and all the navies that ever were built, and all the parliaments that ever sat, and all the kings that ever reigned, put together have not affected the life of man upon this earth as powerfully as that one solitary life – Jesus Christ."

Merry Christmas.

FCC Update 9/16/2010

2010-09-17T12:21:00.001-07:00

Good Afternoon FCC Family!

As I am writing this, parents are dropping their kids off for the afternoon sessions of Pre-School and Early-Learners classes. It’s a great start to another year at our Pre-School & Kindergarten. Susan Brooks, Debbie Nagle, Julie Wagner, Penny Blair & Ruth Harlan make a great staff and they do a great job with the children. There are still two openings in the Early Learners class due to cancellations so contact the Church Office, if you or someone else would like to enroll a child.

Speaking, of children, Power JAM/Little JAM (4yrs-6^th grade) got off to a fun start with a Carnival last night. 24 kids came and had fun playing games and eating pizza and cupcakes. By the way, thanks to all the kids and staff for the birthday surprise! I didn’t know that I was walking into a party for me—sorry for keeping you waiting but I thought I was just coming over to grab a slice of pizza! If your child wasn’t able to make it last night, they can start coming next week and future Wednesdays from 6:30-8pm. Power JAM is all new this year with a new schedule, activities, and Bible lessons. Ruth Harlan & Jen Pelligrene and the staff have been working hard for several months making plans for this year. I am excited about what they are doing. By the way, its not too late to volunteer. This is a very important ministry for us and the help of many is needed to make it a spiritually rewarding experience for the children.

Scripture Memory Program has begun. Memory Verse lists for the Fall Quarter were passed out in Sunday School classes this past Sunday. Copies will be available in the Communication Center and they should soon be posted on our web site (www.faithcountrychapel.org).

Alpha Phi Youth will be attending the See You At The Pole Rally this Sunday at Riverwalk Park in downtown New Castle, 6-8pm. Comedian Bob Smiley will be performing. The event is free but bring spending money for refreshments and merchandise tables, if you want. Meet at FCC at 5:15pm and return by 8:45pm. See You At The Pole is Wednesday Sept. 22. Youth should check with their local school for the start time of this student-led prayer event at their school. Parents please make an extra effort to help your teen participate because it will require them to get to school earlier than normal. If that is not possible, they should join in as soon as they arrive on campus.

EMW would like to thank everyone who contributed to their offering for the Pregnancy Resource Center in New Castle. $172.39 was received in the offering which was held over several weeks at the end of August and the beginning of this month.

Katie Majors is returning to Honduras in November to work with the girls at Eternal Family Projects. She was part of the team that went to Honduras in June with Mercy Ships. If you would like to help Katie financially with the costs of the trip, you may do so through the church. Just mark your contribution “For Katie Majors”. She is in need of about $8-900 to cover the airfare and remaining costs associated with the trip. She is also accepting donations of gently used children’s clothing, hygiene items, etc. You can bring those items to the church.

New York Mission Trip is Sept. 30-Oct. 3. The team will once again work with Living Waters Fellowship and the NYC Bus Relief. Deadline to register is this Sunday. Adults: $100, Youth:$50. They will also take any donations of school and winter clothing for teens and children including coats and jackets, new socks for men and women, t-shirts and new or gently used sweatshirts. They will be delivering the VBS offering of school supplies to Living Waters’ after-school program. Last day of collection is Sept. 26^th.

First Place for Health begins next Monday night the 20^th. Judy Campbell & Debbie Downing, who have been leading this ministry, have become TV Stars! They were recently interviewed about the program for a “Healthy Living” segment on Youngstown’s WFMJ-TV. You can watch the video for yourself: http://www.wfmj.com/global/category.asp?c=179433&clipId=5092389&topVideoCatNo=127724&autoStart=true . It remains to be seen if this sudden media fame, changes Judy and Debbie at all!!

We will once again participate as a church in Praying4America during the month of October. From their web site: With the challenges we face in America, we need prayer more than ever. Now is the time to dedicate ourselves to this high priority as individuals, as families, and as churches. Praying4America is a vital initiative to observe October 2010 as A Month of Prayer for America. Thousands of churches across the nation are taking part in this vital effort. Praying4America is built on a simple strategy that utilizes an innovative resource—the Prayer Map of America. Praying4America is totally non-political. It is a prayer emphasis, not a political emphasis. It is neither right nor left, neither conservative nor liberal. It is not even centrist because it looks above to God as we pray that His kingdom come and His will be done. Resources will be available on Sept. 26.

Join us this Sunday for Worship (8:15am & 10:45am) and Sunday School (9:30am)—remember last week’s challenge that everyone who calls FCC home should be involved in a Sunday School class or Small-Group Bible Study. This week we will conclude our study of Titus and we are hosting the New Life Drama Company. This is a last-minute opportunity that presented itself. The NLDC is a group of young adults who travel the country evangelizing using sketch drama. They will present their dramas to us in both services and also will be sharing with the youth in the Sunday School hour. I am excited about having them join us in worship this week.

See you Sunday!

Pastor Russ

2010-07-07T06:23:00.001-07:00

Good Morning FCC Family!

I hope all of you are holding up well during this heat wave. Remember our sanctuary is air conditioned now! That is an investment that we can all appreciate except for the crazy few who like to sweat when they sing!!

Anyhow, I want to update you on some upcoming events at FCC:

· Baby Dedication this Sunday, July 11.

· Pine Valley Bible Camp is hosting their Community Day this Sunday, July 11, 2-6pm. The event is free and features food and drink, horseback riding, swimming, waterslide, climbing wall and more. It’s a great way to spend time with your family and to learn more about this great ministry.

· VBS begins next week, July 12-16. This is a huge ministry for us and Judy Campbell has been busily organizing everything for next week. She’s doing an awesome job as always. Many of you will be giving of your time and talent to making it a successful outreach for us. I appreciate your commitment and efforts and I encourage you to be in prayer for the week.

· Next Wednesday night (July 14), during VBS week, we have a special opportunity. Pastor James Sai Ruma, who is an EMC Pastor in Myanmar, will be sharing with us in the sanctuary from 6:30-7:30pm. Everyone who is not serving in the VBS ministry is encouraged to attend. I am asking for everyone to make this a priority in your schedule next week. This is a great opportunity to personally connect with our EMC brothers and sisters in Myanmar. Please plan to be there.

· Baptism service, July 18, 6:30pm @ Ralph & Marge Currie’s, 316 West Park Road. Right now, I have 10 youth and adults who want to be baptized!! I will be leading a class on baptism this Sunday morning at 9:30am in the Pastor’s office for those who are planning to be baptized. Everyone must attend this class.

· VBS Celebration, July 18. There will only be 1 service that day @ 10:45am. Sunday School will meet @ 9:30am.

· LCYM Community Block Party, July 23 @ the Y-Zone. This is a youth and family event. All are invited to attend and its free! See the Sunday bulletin or the poster in the Communication Center for more details.

· City Rescue Mission Bike Run is July 24. See Dave Pacifico for more details or to volunteer.

· July 25^th is Membership Sunday. New members will be joining the church that morning. Also, the Sr. High & Honduras Mission Teams will be sharing about their Mission Trips in both services.

· July 26-28 is His Hands Ministry. See the Sunday Bulletin for more details. Registration packets are available in the Communication Center. There are separate packets for youth and adults.

· Junior Camp is July 28-30.

Also, mark your calendars for August 29. We will have a Tent Service that day @ 10am (only 1 service and no Sunday School). The service will be followed by our Church Picnic and a concert with the Tom Walker Family and The Colporteurs. This is also Promotion Sunday. All children and youth are to remain in their current grades for Sunday School and all activities (including Alpha Phi) until this date. High School graduates may join the College & Career Class this summer. It meets in the Prayer Room @ 9:30am.

It has been a busy summer so far for me but a very rewarding one as well. The Senior High Mission Trip and Sr. Camp were awesome experiences! It has been a blessing to hear God’s Word from the various speakers and to see their passion and commitment. I have been pleased that our attendance (except for the holiday weekends) has been at or above our weekly average. I know us pastors get accused of being too focused on numbers but those numbers represent people who are worshipping God and being ministered to or are ministering to others—that’s why those numbers are important!

Please continue to make Sunday worship a priority for you and your family. Remember, we have an 8:15am service so you can still make worshipping God a part of your Sundays even if you have family plans for the day. If your on vacation, visit a church nearby. Also, continue to be involved in all the other events. As you can see from above, summer provides us a wonderful opportunity for some exciting ministries.

Most of all, love God and your family and be willing to serve him wherever and whenever.

Have a great day in the Lord!

Pastor Russ

The Role of Dating

2010-03-10T18:57:00.000-08:00

At Alpha Phi Youth tonight, we began our series on Dating & Sex using video curriculum by Michael & Hayley DiMarco. In tonight's video, we met Alexa & Aaron (they were dating separate people not each other). Alexa talked about how she ignored the warning signs in her relationship with her boyfriend. Aaron talked about how he just liked the title of "boyfriend". It gave him an identity.

Some of the important points from our discussion include:
* Though the Bible doesn't speak to dating directly, it does speak a lot about relationships. In fact, relationship is part of the very nature of God and it is also why Jesus died on the cross for our sins so that our relationship with a Holy God could be restored by faith in Him.
*God should be the number one priority in our life. Our relationship with Him is the most important relationship of all.
*To date or not to date is a personal choice that every teenager needs to make. If and when to date is something that should be decided in discussion with your parents. Parents should instill values and set guidelines to help your child experience God-honoring relationships not only in dating but in friendships and family relationships as well.
*Like Alexa & Aaron, many teens date for the wrong reasons or date the wrong people. We are influenced by the people we spend time with for good or for bad. Therefore, you should choose wisely the people you will date. To ignore the warning signs, as Alexa did, or to think that we can change the person (and not be changed ourselves) can lead to a lot of problems. We also shouldn't date just to date. Being like Aaron and just wanting the title of "boyfriend" or "girlfriend" or to be in a relationship are not good reasons to date. When you have that attitude it will lead you to be less choosy about who you date. You're just satisfied with being in a relationship regardless of the character of the person you are dating.
*We live in a culture that has made sex a god. Like the Baal-worshippers in Hosea 11:1-3, our culture has become obsessed with sex. TV, movies, music, billboards-the celebration of sex is everywhere. To quote from our lesson, "And you can imagine the true God sighing as he watches all of this. 'I created this people,' he says. 'I have loved these people. Sex was my idea. Why won't they let me tell them how to use it?'"
*There are numerous biblical and practical reasons to avoid sex outside of marriage and a major one is: It's idolatry. When we engage in a sexual relationship outside of marriage between a man and a woman, we are saying "This is more important to me than God." Is that something, as Christians, we want to say?
*Remember what the DiMarcos said in the video: Either you will marry this person or you will break up. Eventually one of those two things will happen.
*'Don't worship your boyfriend or girlfriend as a god. Don't expect that relationship to give you a full, complete life. Keep the focus on God and let Him be your priority. Accept this relationship as a gift from Him, and conduct it in a way that pleases Him."
*Remember, too what I said to you: "If you break up, they will marry someone else. Therefore, you may be dating someone else's spouse. How do you want your future spouse to be treated by the person they may be dating now? Also, on your wedding day which message would you rather send to your mate-'I love you and you are the first and only one' or 'I love you and you are the last one.'?"

Finally, let me close with this from our lesson:
"Priorities. You are making decisions every day based on what's most important to you. Will sex be the most important factor in your life, or will God take that role?

God made you to be a sexual being. He wrote it in your DNA. You have hormones. Sexuality is a part of your existence. The question is, what will you do with it? Will it become an idol? Will it be the thief that destroys? Or will you put it in its place as one part of a life that honors God in its wholeness.

Colossians 3:17 says, 'And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.' Will that be your story,as you watch TV, as you surf the Net, as you walk past the most attractive people in your class, as you sit alone with a boyfriend or girlfriend--will you act in the name of the Good Shepherd, who knows you and loves you?" (Read John 10:8-14 to understand the references to the "thief" and "Good Shepherd".)

One more point that needs to be made: God is a god of new beginnings, fresh starts. Maybe you have realized some things about yourself tonight that you know does not honor God. Now that you have realized that, you need to know that God will forgive you, cleanse you of your sin and give you a fresh start (see 1 John 1:9). What is past is past but you can set a new course for your future.

As always please feel comfortable talking with me or any of our Adult Leadership Team about this or other issues that you have questions about. Our desire is to help you grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ and to experience the abundant life that He has planned for all of us.

Look forward to seeing you at Alpha Phi next week as we continue our series on Dating by talking about the purpose of dating.

Have a great day in the Lord!

Pastor Russ

More Than A Drive-Thru Thank You

2009-11-22T10:38:00.000-08:00

More Than A Drive-Thru Thank You!
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Faith Country Chapel
November 22, 2009

Read 1 Thessalonians 5:18

By now, I am sure many of you know this Thursday is Thanksgiving day. Planning and preparation is underway for a day of food, football and family. Students know that they have a break from school and hunters are looking beyond the holiday to a weekend in the woods getting ready for deer hunting. It also marks a time when Christmas shopping and preparation is in full swing. Thanksgiving marks the beginning of several weeks of celebration and tradition. There is no other time like the Thanksgiving to New Year’s stretch in our calendar. It is truly a wonderful time of year.

When I think of Thanksgiving, I remember the smell of turkey and gravy filling the house when I woke up in the morning; my mother eating the gizzard for breakfast which no one fought her for and then the meal at 1pm followed by watching football, playing board games and eating more turkey and leftovers which continued throughout the weekend. In later years, it was alternating between Thanksgivings here with Lori’s family or in Harrisburg with my family. Now, its annual treks a few feet across the yard to enjoy the great feast with my in-laws. I hope Thanksgiving is full of wonderful memories for you.

There is much debate and controversy surrounding the origins and traditions of Thanksgiving. I’ve read many differing accounts of when and where the first Thanksgiving was celebrated in the colonies, who came, for what purpose and whether certain proclamations were made and not made. While we may be dismayed at the secularization of yet another holiday, the celebration of Thanksgiving will always be what we make it regardless of how others celebrate it past, present or future.

To that end, I would like us to examine the meaning of Thanksgiving-not the holiday but the action and attitude of giving thanks. It is obvious to all of us for me to say that giving thanks to God is very much what we are to be about as Christians. It is more than just a day. Just as we wish the joy of Christmas to be something we share all year round. Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday and something you offer up before overloading your belly with platefuls of food.

Better yet, I want us to be reminded this morning that “giving thanks” or “saying thanks” is more than a “drive-thru thank you”!

Now, what do I mean by that? Well you know what it’s like when you go through the drive-thru. You place your order, pull up to the window, get your food, give your money, get your change and then the person says “Thank You, have a nice day!” and you say “Thank You and same to you!” or something like that. At least I do, because if I don’t my wife will scold me for being rude! However, do you really notice what usually doesn’t happen in that exchange? Eye contact or a smile! The exchange happens because we are trained to do it. It’s good business etiquette. It’s the good manners our mother taught us. We do it because it’s expected. But the sincerity isn’t there. We’re ready to move on. We want our food and to get on the road to our destination. The cashier wants to take care of the next customer or to take a break. So we have a quick exchange with minimal interaction while we are busy doing something else.

Now, I am not trying to be critical of those who work fast food or in any other retail position or critical of us for how we respond. The point that I want to make here is that as Christians thanksgiving is an attitude and a way of life. At least it should be. It is more than just a “drive-thru thank you” where we casually look at God while we are caught up in the busyness of our life and give Him a half-hearted thank you. It’s so much more than that.

This morning, I’d like us to get deeper into the meaning of thanksgiving because it can make a huge difference in our life.
Sincere life-altering thanksgiving takes place for the believer at the intersection of 3 actions:
1. When we behold the face of our Father.
2. When we see who we really are in Him versus what we were without Him.
3. When we see the circumstances of our life.

Behold The Father
When we behold the face of God our Father and see a Holy, Righteous and Amazing God, thanksgiving fills our heart.

Read 1 Chronicles 16: 8-13 & 23-36

When we look in Scripture and behold the God of Creation, the God of Noah, Moses, Abraham, Issac and Jacob; the God of King David and King Solomon and His miracles and judgments upon Israel that preserved them until His plan was fulfilled in the coming of Jesus Christ. When we receive and proclaim the salvation we have in Christ Jesus; a salvation that gives us an abundant and eternal life. When we see the work of The Holy Spirit that raised up The Early Church and continues to expand it thousands of years later. When we stand here today knowing that we join millions upon millions of believers today and down through the ages who love their Lord. When we see the hand of God continuing to raise up men and women to carry on His work from John Wesley to Billy Graham to DL Moody to the person sitting next to you whose efforts may only be recorded in the history of Faith Country Chapel if even then. When we see the hand of God at work in our very own lives in the salvation of a loved one, or a healing that takes place, or a provision made, or comfort given or strength to persevere when times are challenging. When we see the future that await all who believe upon His Son Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior—a place where there is no more sorrow, no more pain, no more weeping and no more suffering. “A city of pure gold, as pure as glass” (Rev. 21:18);
a place where there is no darkness and the sun and the moon need not shine because God’s glory will light the way; a place of eternal feasting and worship as we celebrate God and His miracles as we never have before. When we see God in all His Holiness, Righteousness and Sovereignty. . . .

When we truly behold the face of our Father that is what we will see and thanksgiving will fill our soul!

The Reality of You

This is key to salvation. Acknowledging that apart from God we are nothing. That we were sinners and that the just punishment for our sinfulness is eternal separation from a Righteous and Holy God. There can be no relationship between One who is without sin and one who is corrupted by sin. We understand that without faith in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, that penalty could not be removed. There is nothing we can ever do to earn our salvation not before and certainly not after. It is a free gift from God given in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In Christ, we acknowledge that we are saved and that we are being sanctified and changed by the power of The Holy Spirit as we live faithfully to Him. We testify to the eternal hope and joy that we have and the victory over sin and the spiritual forces of evil led by Satan.

As believers we stand here today saved, sanctified and redeemed by the Grace and Love of God and we know that gift given to us is not limited to just us but is freely given to all who dare to receive and therefore, we commit ourselves to spreading that Good News in word and deed.

When we see the reality of who we were before Christ and who are in Christ, thanksgiving fills our soul.

The Circumstances of Life

This is tough.

It’s easy to be filled with thanksgiving at the birth of child, or a funny moment with a friend, or at a hug from your spouse, or a raise at work, or the wedding of your son or daughter, or getting your first buck; there are numerous moments, large and small that can easily bring thanksgiving to our soul.

But, can we thank God when are unemployed or we’re working a dead end job just to make ends meet? It was hard for me when I would sit in the warehouse at Wright’s Furniture wondering how I got there after a Master’s Degree and 15 years of ministry. But, I can now looking back on that time and seeing what God was doing.

Can you thank God when you find out that you have an incurable disease that has left many disabled and dependent on others? My wife couldn’t at first but she does now. It’s a powerful part of her testimony of what God has done in her life.

Can you thank God when your family life is in shambles or when a spouse has died and you are lonely? It’s easier said than done, isn’t it?

But our passage today tells us to give thanks in ALL circumstances. That means the good and the bad, the easy and the hard, the ones that put a smile on our face and the ones that bring tears to our eyes.

Now, this is another message that I will leave for Pastor Brian to preach someday on why bad things happen and how we as Christians are to respond. But suffice it to say for us today that, as Christians, we are to give thanks in ALL circumstances. We are to seek God’s Hand at work always and to not ignore His goodness even when we are overwhelmed with sadness or anger. We can give thanks and we will give thanks when we trust in Him alone.

When we surrender the circumstances of our life to God then thanksgiving will fill our soul.

Let us spend a few more moments examining what robs us of our gratefulness.

Lack of Humility or Pride

Pride lies at the heart of man’s struggle with God. The man or woman who rejects God ultimately does so because he sees no need for God. He is completely self-reliant and considers it foolish and beneath him to place his trust in God and therefore sets out to live life in his own way and to his own pleasing and satisfaction or so he thinks.

More subtle to the Christian, is spiritual pride-that somehow we make it easy for God to bless us because we are so good, so obedient to Him. “Of course, God would save me because I was such a good person to begin with. Sure there might have been a few minor shortcomings that had to be dealt with but all in all I am a pretty good person and still am today which is why God can’t help but bless me!” We may not say it but from deep in our conscience that thought creeps out.

Do get me wrong, God will not bless disobedience. Our obedience along with trust is key to God’s blessings. But remember all that we are and all that we have are God’s gift to us. They are not a right or an expected result. In fact, our very ability to be obedient and to trust in God is a work of His Holy Spirit in our lives.

Spiritual pride is subtle; it can be dangerous to the believer and to others. Spiritual pride can rob us of our thanksgiving.

Complaining or Critical Spirit

Always complaining about something leaves no time or opportunity to give thanks. A bitter heart which is at the root of a critical spirit leaves no room for gratefulness and appreciation.

Again, don’t get me wrong on this point. It is good to share our burdens and concerns with others that they may encourage us, pray with us and help us. It is also important for us to hold one another accountable. But here is the difference between concern and accountability and a complaining or critical spirit. A person with a complaining or critical spirit has no desire to improve the situation or make it better. They simply want to trash another person or to make themselves look superior or to vent with little or no intent of seeing the situation change or improve. Jesus gave us principles to follow in Matthew 18 in dealing with an offending brother or sister in Christ with sole purpose of rectifying the matter and to restore the relationship. That should be our intent but when we simply complain or criticize we are accomplishing nothing positive.

Also, a critical spirit focuses on the negative and ignores the positive. Worse yet, the critical spirit treats the positive as something to be expected, as a right and therefore not worthy of any recognition. You cannot be truly grateful for something you already think you deserve or should expect.

This is true for us as parents. We are quick to criticize and reprimand but slow to praise. Of course, we need to discipline and to reprimand but we should also praise our children and catch them doing good. I’m not talking about getting all sappy and jumping up and down and clapping your hands when little Johnny remembers to flush the toilet! But when they do something good, something significant praise them, pat them on the back, just as you would be quick to reprimand if they did something bad. I know I need to do that. (example Sam’s soccer coach)

Carelessness

A third attitude that robs us of our thanksgiving is carelessness. It has been said that is the stars only came out once a year, we would stay out all night to watch them. But they are there every night and we have grown accustomed to them. This past week there were meteor showers. I know from reading Facebook, that some of our college students were staying out late at night to watch them. My wife likes to watch them in mid-August-why because it’s something spectacular that you just don’t see every day. But so are the stars and how often do you look up at night and be amazed at a small part of God’s handiwork?

Listen, we cannot go one step in life without bumping into or experiencing the amazing works of God. And I am not just talking about his handiwork in Creation. I am talking about what He is doing in each of our lives every moment of every day that just zips right past us unnoticed. We are carelessly blind to much of what God is doing and then we wonder why He is not doing enough!

We are not going to notice everything that He does but we can take note of a lot more than what we do and give thanks for a lot more than what we do.

Let me close with this: I’m not here to tell you that thanksgiving is more than just a holiday (you already know that) or that it is more than just being polite or mannerly (you know that too) but it is more than just a “drive-thru thank you”. We need to behold the face of God and say thank you from the depth of our soul, with every fiber of our being and with every moment of our life.

Better yet, thanksgiving is an attitude that stands at the crossroads of God, You and Life and says “Wow, this is an amazing place to be! THANK YOU GOD! “ What blocks us from getting there is pride, criticism and carelessness.

Where are you standing today?

Let’s pray about that before we go.
Closing Prayer

I'm Back!

2009-10-17T18:12:00.000-07:00

Its 9:15 on a Saturday night. Soon going to call it a day. Despite the rain-it was a nice day. My sisters are in town visiting. They took Sam & Grace bowling this afternoon. Both had a better score than I usually get. Its feast or famine for me on the lanes--gutter balls or strikes! Very few spares on my score sheet. For dinner Lori's Mom and Dad joined us and we squeezed the 8 of us around the table. It felt like an early Thanksgiving. Lori made some great homemade Mac & Cheese along with ham. Good meal!

What made the day great was Penn State's win over Minnesota with Ohio State losing to Purdue. Iowa is definitely in control of the Big Ten right now. They are going to have to lose 2 down the stretch for Penn State to win the Big Ten title. I am certainly glad Terelle Pryor is at Ohio State (excuse me, THE Ohio State) instead of making turnovers for Penn State. I'll take Darryl Clark any day over Pryor. Kevin Newsome, the back-up QB is a great prospect by all accounts so, the Nittany Lions should be in good hands for awhile.

Anyhow, moving on to some more random thoughts:

Faith
*Last weekend, Lori and I traveled to Houghton College in New York Sunday evening and Monday. We attended a youth ministry seminar with Mark Devries which was very good. We also got to visit with Chelsey and Hannah (from our New Covenant Youth Group). It was great to hang out with them and to meet Hannah's boyfriend. We saw them Sunday night at the Inn where we stayed and then joined them for chapel Monday plus Chinese for dinner before heading back to New Castle. Houghton is a great Christian college and a lovely campus. The town is very small and you're about 30 minutes from any larger community. Nonetheless, a great place.
*Mission Conference is this weekend. I'm looking forward to spending time with Mark & Lori and to hear the great things that Mercy Ships is doing. It will be cool to have our own members on the mission field return to share their ministry. Plus our mission committee always plans some fun times for food and fellowship. Its far from a boring mission conference!
*Alpha Phi has a campfire @ Brandon's coming up. Then a Corn Maze trip and the Fall Retreat. Check www.alphaphi.org for more information. The web site is completely up-to-date. The mission conference schedule is there as well.
*Tomorrow, after services, I will be heading to Salem VA for a District Board of Youth Activities meeting on Monday. My son will be traveling with me. I took Grace along with me in Feb. Its a great opportunity for me to spend some one-on-one fun time with my kids and to involve them in my ministry which is something Lori and I have always done from the beginning. The Board is responsible for all of the retreats and camps. I enjoy the trips and seeing all my friends who are on the Board. Its a great group to work with.

Family
* As I said earlier, my sisters are visiting. On Friday, we spent the day in Pittsburgh. The kids were off school Thursday and Friday. Lori had an appt. with her MS doctor. All checked out well. She does have some old lesions on her spine which were discovered in her May MRI. This explains the pain that she has in her hands every morning. Its like arthritis pain but goes away in a few minutes. She also has pain in her elbows esp. in the morning. This is another side affect of MS. Overall, she is doing well.
*We spent the afternoon on a driving tour of Pittsburgh since it was a cold, rainy day. It was fun checking out the different neighborhoods. We found a great place to eat on the South Side called the "1889 Cafe". Its on Carson Street.
*Keep me in your prayers. I have to contact my surgeon as the symptoms I had before my "brain surgery" have returned. Over the past week, I have felt many of the same symptoms especially in my feet and legs. At first, I was hoping it was something random but yesterday it was very bothersome and definitely couldn't deny that it was the same symptoms. I'll call him this week to see what he says. I guess he didn't get "the jerk" out!

Fun
*A couple of weeks ago, I read a column by Tom Purcell in the Sunday Pittsburgh Trib about how we don't let kids roam the neighborhoods anymore. I thought about how things have changed so much even since I was a kid. Its true, my kids stay close to home. I would not my want my kids roaming as I did. When I was not much older than my son, I loved riding my bike (still do). I loved the freedom of it. I would ride all over my small town of Wormleysburg. My friend Danny and I would ride to the ball field at the other end of town. Though I was not allowed to, I would often ride my bike across the river to Harrisburg and up Riverfront Park. I would also ride my bike to my friend's house in the Allison Hill neighborhood of the city which would be like the Hill District in Pittsburgh. Once I rode all the way to Linglestown which is like riding from my house to New Wilmington. My kids would be in so much trouble if they did that today. However, my mom would just let it slide when she found out what I did. How times have changed and its not like I grew up in the glory days of the 1950s!
*Food for thought: Chick-fil-a, besides having great chicken sandwiches, has THE best milkshakes anywhere. My favorite meal is a chicken sandwich, fries, carrot & raisin salad and a chocolate milkshake. Please come to New Castle-Chick-fil-a! BTW, they're not open on Sundays--something I forgot-twice!! That's a story for another time.
*I see the MLB championship series are underway. Does that mean the Pirates' season is over. I tuned out sometime in August. 2010 will be the break-out year--maybe!!
*Where did Lady Gaga come from? Didn't know who she was until i saw her screaming on the steps of the Capitol the other day. I read a good blog on her by another youth pastor. I'll try to post it soon or at least a link to it.

Hey, thanks for checking in! Have a great day in the Lord!

Pastor Russ

Random Thoughts

2009-09-29T16:51:00.000-07:00

Ok so I am not a prolific blogger like Pastor Brian but with Facebook, Twitter and web sites to keep up with (not mention ministry & family, oops!)what's a guy to do? That being said, I pledge (thought that would ease the criticism) to be more faithful to blogging. It is my intent to post at least weekly (if not more but let's not get too ambitious) some random thoughts on faith, family and fun. In other words, I'll bore you with family happenings, a few "spiritual" thoughts and just some other "wise" observations that will leave you a better person for having read my blog!! I can see it now, some day they will be talking about me on Fox & Friends: Steve, Gretchen and Brian will be exchanging some witty banter about my blog comments. Until then here are today's Random Thoughts--excited aren't you?!!!

*Why do we in Western PA drive on the parkways and park in the driveways? (O that's been used before? Oops my bad!)

Faith (Country Chapel):
*2 services are going great. The attendance has been very good in the 8:15 service and our overall numbers are up the last few weeks. The worship and messages have been great, too. Its been fun doing both services. Public Launch is this Sunday-invite your friends, family and co-workers but no stealing from someone else's church!!!
*Work Day this Saturday 10/3--digging ditches, fixing up Sunday School rooms and lots more projects. Anyone bringing food?
*Alpha Phi on 9/30, 6:30-8pm. Doors open @ 6pm. NYC Mission Team will be sharing their adventures.
*Learning some hard lessons about worrying and letting go and letting God! I get it now but, sometimes I find myself stuck in my old way of thinking. Old habits die hard,as they say.
*Just read Numbers 6-9-what a temple Solomon built! His riches were unimaginable. Too bad he's not still around, he could pay off our national debt and mine too!! *Then along comes Rehoboam (chapter 10)--let's just say he didn't pick up his dad's wisdom.
*John Wesley: The distinguishing mark of a true follower of Christ. . . .It is a state of soul, a mind and spirit renewed after Him who created it.

Family:
*went camping last Fri. night with some friends at Bear Run. Sam did a header over his bike handlebars. He's got lots of brush burns and was a little sore but doing much better now.
*Sam & Grace both playing soccer for LC United this Fall. Grace is in u-10 and Sam in u-12. Lots of practices and games for me. Good time to work out at y-zone. Trying to get in shape and lower my blood pressure so I can stay off the meds.
*Grace has her MRI tomorrow. Doing well on the seizure meds. FYI: she has benign chilhood epilepsy (small "seisures")-meds will control it until she outgrows it in a few years. Not a huge deal. She's doing good with it.

Fun:
*Bad weekend for football:Penn State loses to Iowa. Forget about the turnovers, how about the 0-line not blocking. They looked great on the Field Goal drive in the first quarter but after that they could not block the Haven Nursing Home front seven, if they wanted to. Then comes the Steelers: just like Penn State, looking great at the start of the game THEN they just give the game away to the hapless Bengals. Now my friend ToddinTally is looking like a football genius for being a Bengals fan!
*the media is all over this health-care reform story but no one is covering the story that I am most concerned about: earlier this summer it was reported in the New Castle News that someone stole a 24-ounce container of Pepsi from an unlocked vehicle in Union Township. I want to know if this is an isolated incident or part of a larger trend? Is it not safe to leave your pop in your car? Is it just Pepsi we have to worry about or is all pop vulnerable? Is it a local problem or a national trend? Why is no one reporting on this? Why isn't Glenn Beck all over this story? I smell a cover-up!! If you have any info. that sheds light on this situation, let me know. In the meantime, drink all your pop and recycle your cans!!

Have a great day in the Lord!

Pastor Russ

Camping @ Bear Run

2009-06-08T11:17:00.001-07:00

This past weekend our family camped at Bear Run Campground on the edge of Moraine State Park. We camped with another family from Beaver County Christian School. We camp a couple of times a summer together. It's a great time together--the kids get to play, we share camping equipment and a lot of laughs and memories.

This time we decided to stay close to home so I could be at church on Sunday. We chose Bear Run thus, discovering a great campground in our own backyard. In fact, we plan on returning again. I encourage your family, if you're looking for a nice getaway to visit Bear Run, whether you tent (real camping) or rv/trailer camp this is an excellent family spot.

The facilities are top-notch and well-maintained including the bathrooms which is always a good place to determine how well the camp is maintained by the staff. The pool was wonderful which is a priority for my kids. The weekend was filled with a lot of activities. The only thing that had a charge to it was painting ceramics--you pay for what you paint. There was a kickball game, volleyball game, wagon ride (which we did),horse rides, church service, Pens playoff game, Amish selling homemade baked goods (cinammon rolls were awesome!), scavenger hunt and much more. They have theme weekends throughout the summer so check out the web site (see below).

The camp is on a hillside with plenty of sites with water & electric as well as a lot of primitive tent sites (no water & electric). In fact, there is a lot of wooded sites at the top of the hill both side by side for multi-family camping or secluded for more privacy. Several of these sites you have to park and walk-in to the site.

There are a lot of nice paved & graveled roads to bike on as well as more rugged roads in the primitive camping area. If you need a bike repair, as we did, Keith at the Maintenance shop will be glad to help if he can.

The Wehr family are the owners and they are wonderful people with a great staff. Its a great to place to visit. You can see why for yourself at www.bearruncampground.com or just experience it firsthand. Let me know how your experienc was, if you go.

Have a great summer!

Suffering For The Gospel

2009-06-08T11:15:00.000-07:00

Sermon @ Faith Country Chapel 5/24/2009
Suffering for The Gospel
2 Timothy 1:8-14
Play Memorial Day Remember Video

This Memorial Day weekend, our thoughts once again are drawn to remember those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Some of those so memorialized are near and dear to our hearts. From the Revolutionary War to the Civil War to the World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan and many battles and skirmishes in-between, thousands upon thousands died in battle on behalf of The United States of America. Freedom comes at a cost.

Despite the nobleness of the cause for which they fought, one still wonders what prompts so many to risk their life and to suffer the horrors of battle. The reasons for enlisting or obeying their conscription into military service would be numerous yet, the sacrifice for the cause for which they fought is the same. One would think the horrors of a battlefield, would be a deterrent to so many enlisting to serve yet, thankfully many do.

There is a very real parallel to this for us as Christians. The call to Christ is a call to serve and a call to suffer. As pastors admittedly we do not like to talk about that as much especially, in the United States and many other countries in the Western World where suffering for The Gospel is nothing compared to what the reality is for many Christians around the world.

Such as Pakistan, where 80 Christian families displaced by the recent military surge against the Taliban are homeless and living on the grounds of their church while Muslims receive government help with tents, mattresses, food, clothing and medical care. In March, in Indonesia, two families were evicted from their homes and lost their jobs after they were baptized as Christians. In April, 18 Christians and their leaders were arrested by the Public Security Bureau in China, as they celebrated communion in their house church. You can read these and other stories at the Voice of The Martyrs web site—persecution.com.

But, that is not our story here today. None of us tried to slip out of our house unnoticed as we left for church this morning. We did not look over our shoulder wondering if a government agent was watching us or a neighbor would report our entry into the church building to government leaders. As we leave this morning, we do not fear being fired from our job, or jailed or beaten because we were here today.

Yet, Jesus was very clear that suffering as He suffered was very much a reality for any who would chose to follow Him. In Matthew 5:11, He called us blessed if we were persecuted and insulted because of Him. In Mark 13:13, Jesus said, “All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.” He asks us to take up The Cross and follow Him. This is no fine print, after the fact, oh by the way, conditions being added to the call to come to Christ. Jesus is upfront with us about what it may mean for us to be His disciples.

It’s just that here, in the United States, it’s a part of the Call to Christ that we don’t want to talk to much about. Simply put, suffering doesn’t sell or so we may think. Comfort, Hope, Peace, Love, Joy, New Life and Eternal Life those are easier to sell. Who wouldn’t want that?! Unfortunately, many even reject that message.

Nonetheless, as a pastor, it would be far easier for me to preach a message of hope, or changed life or wisdom for daily living than it would be to preach a message about suffering. It’s not a feel good message or at least, it doesn’t start out that way. Now, don’t get me wrong or as Pastor Brian might say, “Don’t go out of here telling people that I said we shouldn’t be preaching about hope and joy and eternal life.” That is not what I am saying. We need to daily live and preach that message because all of it is true. But, what is also true is that as Christians we should be prepared to suffer for the sake of The Gospel and I believe more so, in the coming days.

Now, let’s be clear about one more thing before we look at our text for today. We are talking about suffering in its fullest sense-persecution, insult and hardship because you choose to be a Christian and live out your faith and its principles in your everyday life. What we are not talking about is financial difficulties, relationship struggles or health problems though they too can be a result of living a life sold out for Christ. However, as Scripture says “it rains on the just and the unjust” and those situations can fall upon you whether you are a Christian or not. What we are focusing on this morning is the troubles and struggles that we face because we choose to live a life of faith which runs counter to a world that ignores and even rejects God The Father, Our Savior Jesus Christ and the life-changing presence of The Holy Spirit. And while we may not face harsh persecution today like many of our brothers and sisters around the world, we see times are changing and the challenges to living a life of faith in Christ will become greater and greater for our generation and generations to come. And while it may seem this message is all gloom and doom, you will see from Paul’s letter to Timothy that there is much to be gained for those who are willing to answer the call to serve and to suffer.

Read 2 Timothy 1:8-14 (go back to verse 7)

Prayer

In verse 8, Paul invites Timothy to “not be ashamed to testify about our Lord” and to be willing “to suffer for the gospel”. Paul is imprisoned because he has been preaching the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise of Eternal Life. He was preaching heresy in the Jewish Faith and rebellion to the Roman government or so it was thought. He has faced many trials, suffered much and now is in jail because he was so bold to proclaim The Gospel. So he invites Timothy to experience the same. “Suffer for The Gospel, Timothy. Meet the same fate as me. Be a part of the mission.” What is he nuts?! Who would extend such a call?! Again suffering for Christ is not something that looks good on a T-shirt or a Billboard. It’s not what the ad agency would recommend for the TV commercial. But, Paul invites Timothy, as a young pastor, to be willing to suffer as he has suffered.

But why? In verse 9, Paul reminds us why we should be willing to suffer. Because the power of God has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. He says “Timothy you know what God has done for us—He has saved us, He’s given us a new life, a HOLY life and not because we did anything to deserve it, because we didn’t, but because He wanted to, it was His will, it was His grace. Better yet, Timothy , Jesus Christ, our Savior destroyed death and has brought us life and immortality! That’s good news! No, that’s GREAT news! We need to proclaim it and live it for others to know. Even if there are those who do not want to listen to it so much so, that they are willing to persecute us and bully us and do what they can to shut us up! We must be willing to suffer for The Gospel.”

Are you willing? I hope I am. I would like to think that I am. It’s easy to talk tough when the situation isn’t tough. I look at the conditions my fellow pastors in the EMC in Myanmar endure and I think, “could I do that?” “Could I minister in the midst of such poverty in a country under military rule where my religion barely registers a percentage point among so many Buddhists?”

Sure I live in a country where, if I am asked to pray in a public forum, many would ask that I not invoke the name of Jesus let alone pray at all. In our country, prayer and scripture reading are not welcomed in our public schools as they once were, religious expression is forbidden or looked down upon in the workplace and deeply held values about life and marriage rooted in our faith have been labeled as “out of the mainstream” and even “extremists”. Churches have been burned, insults have been hurled, accusations leveled yet we still exercise our faith in relative freedom and ease then so many.

So how do we suffer for The Gospel? How do we face the insult or the challenge to our core beliefs and deeply held values of our faith in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior and the one true way to eternal life in the presence of a Holy and Just God? How do we answer the call to serve and to possibly suffer because of our belief in the One who redeemed you and me?

In verse 7, Paul reminds us that we have been given a spirit, not of timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline. And as we read through verse 14, we learn more of what this means.

Spirit of Power

v. 8 Power of God. The power of God has saved us and it is His power that will sustain us no matter what. We face suffering not in our own power, because we will be quick to run or be rolled over (some quicker than others) but, nevertheless, we will not be victorious in our own might. We must stand on the power of God and Him alone. It is human nature to compromise, go with the flow, or hide in order to protect and preserve. Only in God’s power can we stand tall and strong, as the enemy attacks.

v.12 Trust God. Paul tells Timothy he knows in whom He believes and he trusts God to guard the life that he has surrendered to Him until that day God calls him home. If our life is surrendered to Him and remains surrendered to Him, we need not doubt the surety of our salvation and our eternal life. Paul knew that he had nothing worth saving to lose and he had everything worth gaining already saved. We need to trust in God’s Will and perfect plan for our lives even when the road to the final destination gets rough.

v. 14 Live by The Spirit. The power of God comes to us through the presence of The Holy Spirit. Jesus told His disciples before He ascended into Heaven that they would receive the power of The Holy Spirit to be His witnesses. We receive that same Holy Spirit power when we claim Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior and surrender our life to Him. The Holy Spirit is God’s presence in our life today until that day when we stand in His presence face-to-face. His Holy Spirit gives us the strength, wisdom, comfort and peace and so much more that we can live the life we have been called to live even in the most difficult of circumstances.

Spirit of Love

v. 13 Sound Teaching with Faith and Love. We must love and have compassion even for those who oppose us. That is not to say we are wimps or fail to protect and defend. However, we stand strong on the sound teachings of our faith but always with the intent and hope of leading others to the life-changing power of The Gospel. If our enemy, is nothing more than our enemy in our hearts, we will never be motivated to see them changed as we have been changed.

Spirit of Self-Discipline or Sound Mind (New American Standard)

v.12 Know what you Believe. Continually seek to know God more and more and the truth of His Word through study, prayer, worship and fellowship. Experience His power as you serve in ministry to others. Live your faith. Be active in your faith. Know what you believe and WHO you believe. If God is nothing more than a distant being, you will wither at the tiniest of insults. But, if you know Him and love Him and abide in Him, you will be all the more willing to suffer whatever you may face.

This brings us to the final question of “why?”. Why suffer for The Gospel? What is the purpose? What is to be gained from suffering? In short, a lot. There is a lot to be gained from suffering. The list is long. But, this morning I want us to focus one very important point that Paul made in verse 11.

And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher.

We who are saved by The Gospel of Jesus Christ and who have been changed by The Power of The Holy Spirit should be compelled to see the lives of others eternally changed --whether friend or stranger. The same reason an American soldier steps on the battlefield that others may be or remain free so to, the Christian is willing to suffer for The Gospel on the battlefields of life that others may be truly free from sin and death.

Friends, if you are a Christian, a committed follower of Jesus Christ, surrendered to the power of The Holy Spirit; then you are a part of this mission. You are called to so live out your faith and proclaim it in word and deed to cause others to come to Jesus even in the face of suffering. We are called to be the church that is not timid but boldly relies on the spirit of power, love and self-discipline as we serve our Father.

We are alive in Christ in the midst of a dying world that desperately needs Him yet rejects Him and also, reject us. Yet we boldly proclaim and serve. A church that is so willing to minister in His Name at all costs—that church will dramatically impact families for Jesus Christ and against that church not even the gates of hell will prevail against it—so promises our Lord!!!

Praise God today that we worship and minister in relative ease. But let us not fear the insults and sufferings that we occasionally face and let us not shrink from the suffering that is to come knowing that we have an eternal reason for being bold yet humble, in our faith.

Stand with me as we close in prayer.

If you do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, today’s message had little relevance for you. However, I pray that the you will be moved to seek a relationship with Him for it will change your life and bring you eternal joy and peace and so much more even in the midst of suffering. For those who do have that relationship with Jesus, I encourage you to grow strong in your faith and to know in whom you believe and be convinced that He will guard that which you have entrusted to Him for that day. Let us pray.

Closing Prayer

Be Generous

2009-05-16T05:02:00.001-07:00

I just spent some time this morning reading 1 Corinthians 9 where Paul talks about sowing generously. Specifically, in verse 6 he writes: Remember this, Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Now, we often use this verse to talk about tithing and financial giving which is what Paul is talking about here. He has been talking to the Corinthian church about the great gift that they have been preparing.

However, as I was reading the passage, I was thinking how applicable it is to all of my life. How I should be generous not only with money but other resources, time, talents, attitude, love, emotions, faith--in short, generous with my life; all that I am. If I am generous then I will reap much generosity in return. I don't think what I reap will just be a personal benefit. That is not the motivating factor--give to get. Rather, I see the generous reaping will be seen in the lives of others and in the growth of God's Kingdom. There will be many personal benefits from my generosity that will be outweighed by the harvest in God's Kingdom.

As I came to the end of that chapter, I felt compelled (and still do) to make that verse the "motto" for my ministry and how I live my life. I need to be more generous with all that I am and all that I do and resist the temptation to be tight and pull in the reins.

Give generously of my love, my time, talents, etc as a husband, dad, pastor, and friend and there will be much reaping in the harvest and it will be my privilege (because it is not owed to me, that's for sure)to share in the reaping.

Have a great day in the Lord!

Final Update

2009-05-16T04:55:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to put a final update on my health status. I've been back to work for over a month now. Everything from the surgery has healed up well. I did spend a couple of days in Jameson Hospital because I developed c-diff colitis which is an infection that results from taking atrong antibiotics. It gives you nasty diarehha and cramps--sorry if that's TMI but, people who don't know always ask what it is so there you have it!!

Anyhow, all is good. Except for feeling the scar on the back of my hear, I wouldn't know that I have had surgery. My only lingering issue is regainig my stamina and energy. That's been frustrating at times--getting so tired. However, that will come back over time.

Thanks for all the prayers and encouragement. I truly do believe that God answered so many prayers. I shared my testimony at our evening service last month and I believe I counted about 9 answered prayers directly related to my surgery from God during this whole time. He is a great God!

Thanks and keep checking back. I'm not a prolific blogger but I do drop a thought on here now and then. I hope it encourages you.

UPMC Revisited

2009-03-27T14:30:00.000-07:00

Its been awhile since I've felt up to giving you an upate on my recovery. After successful surgery and a good start to my recovery, I had a small setback last weekend. After a couple of days of stubbornly ignoring my symptoms (don't worry my wife has already chastized me), I called the doctor's answering service last Saturday night. Lori and her cousin, Peggy drove me down to the ER @ Presby to get checked out. A CT scan, MRI & blood tests plus my symptoms convinced them to keep me for observation. They determined I had aseptic meningitis which is NOT an infection and was just a reaction to the surgery. I was treated with steroids and after a second blood test to verify that there was no infection, I came home on Tuesday.

After this second hospitalization, I am more tired and easily worn out. I understand now why I need the 4 weeks to recover. On a good note, the headaches are minimal, the stitches are out and the incision is healing well. I see the surgeon on Monday for a follow-up and then the week of Easter I will begin a part-time work schedule.

Thanks again for checking in and for your thoughts and prayers. Please check in from time to time for more updates and (as I get back into a normal routine) to check out my blogs on faith, family & fun (I can do more than just write about myself!!)

Have a great day in the Lord!

Answered Prayers

2009-03-12T13:23:00.000-07:00

God has certainly answered my prayers and the prayers of many others lifted on my behalf!

I arrived home Wednesday afternoon, one day earlier than expected because I am recovering so well. The other amazing answer is that my pain has been very minimal. At my last appointment with the surgeons, everyone was making the point of how much neck pain I would have because of the muscle being cut especially, the first two days. However, my consistent response to the doctors and nurses immediately following surgery and throughout my hospital stay has been my pain level was a 3 on a scale of 1 to 10. On Monday, I had 4 different doctors check in on me following the surgery, when I gave my standard answer, the last doctor said "Wow, you are the first person to tell me that!" The strongest medicine I took was Tylenol with codeine and by Tuesday night, I cut back to just Tylenol which I continue to take. I praise God for answering my prayers! Today, I have little to no pain even when I move my head which I must do regularly to keep it from getting stiff.

The surgery, as you can tell, was very successful. Dr. Engh reported to Lori that everything went smoothly. There were numerous cysts that had to be fennestrated. They also discovered some abnormalities with the bone structure that they rectified. The surgeon said that they opened things up in there for me by taking care of the bone abnormality and that it should also help me. I will have to find out more when I follow-up with him.

My care at UPMC Presbyterian was excellent. I really appreciate the staff there. I would recommend them to anyone.

I am spending my first full day at home. I have at least 4 weeks until I can have some restrictions lifted. I am off work until that time. I am also limited in lifting, using steps, no driving among other common post-surgery restrictions. I will be spending a lot of time in the "Big Hog" which is our oversized recliner which was brought up from the basement since I am not allowed to lie flat. I intend to keep a schedule and set goals for myself each day in order to stave off the boredom. I am also doing as much as I can for myself within my limitations and making sure I get plenty of rest. I believe this is important to a successful recovery. I began doing this from the moment I was taken up to the step-down unit right after surgery when I moved myself from the gurney to the bed. I trust in the statement that "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." (even though that is not an excuse to be foolish!). Though, this is a difficult surgery to recover from--the nurse told me that the head is the worst place on the body to have an incision because everything you do involves the head--I am determined not to act like I am incapable of doing anything and expect my family to do everything for me. Plus, it will make life easier on them!

We are thankful for all the notes, calls and other expressions of encouragement. We are also grateful to many in our Sunday School Class & church as well as family and friends who are providing meals and other assistance in the days and weeks ahead. It will be of great help as I don't want the extra burdens placed upon Lori to place too much stress on her and cause her MS to flare up. She is doing well and was very much at my side and still is, of course!!

On March 23, I will return to the surgeon to have my stitches removed. Please pray that it will be painless as well--this is my last hurdle!

Please check back for updates and other postings as I will not always be writing just about myself!

By the way, I have a 4" incision that looks like train tracks. Lori will be glad to send you a picture on your cell, if you like that kind of stuff!

Brain Surgery

2009-03-04T12:57:00.000-08:00

I am scheduled to have brain surgery on Monday, March 9 @ UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh to alleviate symptoms (and prevent further complications) from multiple cysts located at the rear of my brain. I will be in the hospital for a few days and then I will have about 4-6 weeks recovery at home. It will be 12 weeks until all restrictions are removed.

For those of you who know nothing of my situation allow me to quickly update you.

Around Thanksgiving 2008, I started havng some random symptoms primarily numbness and "pins & needles" feeling in my right arm & both legs and feets. I have also experienced headaches and some other random "sensations" and symptoms. I went to my family doctor who started me on a series of tests and visits to specialists. I had a stress test and cardio work-up because of my family history. I discovered that I have "exercise-induced hypertension" for which I now take a pill 1x/day. Then I had a series of neurologiacal exams, MRIs and other tests. I have known about the cysts since late December which were discovered on my MRI. I consulted with a neurosurgeon @ Allegheny General and then had a second opinion from the UPMC team where I will be having the surgery.

What I found out is that 9 out of 10 people (mostly males) who have these cysts do not need surgery because they do not have symptoms. Most only know it from a random MRI for something else. I am 1 of 10 that have symptoms which, though more on the mild side now, could progress to loss of coordination and balance. Basically, I have a larger cavity than normal at the rear of my brain--something I was born with. I don't know if my head is too big or brain too small!! Over time, cerebral-spinal fluid has built up in this area to the point that it is no longer flowing as it should. This has resulted in a thinning of my skull and pressure on my brain which is causing the symptoms that I experience.

The surgery will involve a significant incision in my neck,lower skull area; removal of a small piece of bone and "fenestrating" the cyst to get the fluid moving again. It will be about a 3 hour procedure not counting all the prep and post-op work. Endoscope or other minimally invasive procedure is not doable with my situation given that I have multiple cysts. I will have extreme neck pain especially, the first couple of days. As I said, I have extended recovery time at home following the surgery.

I don't know what to expect since my only previous "surgery" experience is minor foot surgery about 15 years ago. Please join me in prayer that my recovery will be speedy and not as painful as predicted and that I will be a good patient. Lori will be doing double duty with the kids (getting them back & forth to school and other activities) along with her part-time work and taking care of the house. Please keep her and the kids in your prayers as well. Her parents are next door and will be a big help plus we have a lot of friends to call on when needed. My oldest sister will be coming out next week to watch the kdis while I am in the hospital.

As for my ministry at the church, I have a great leadership team that will keep the youth ministry going on Wednesday nights and take the youth on the Spring Retreat. I am not at all worried about the church ministry as we are blessed with a lot of great leaders who will keep things running without me. In fact, they will find out just how replaceable I am!!

Well, that is all for now. I will post updates as soon as I feel up to banging away on a computer. Until then, keep praying for the family and I. I am relying on His promise of strength and I know He will lead me through this "storm" in my life.

We appreciate your love, support and your presence in our life!!

To God be the glory!!

Winter Recommendations

2009-01-29T15:36:00.000-08:00

Here are some recommendations for some winter time fun!

1) Ice Skating at PPG Rink in downtown Pittsburgh. The kids and I did this for the 2nd year in a row right after Christmas. This year it was raining but we still had a lot of fun. Its a beautiful setting to skate outdoors especially at night. Go to www.ppgplace.com for more information.

2)Tubing or Skiing/Snowboarding @ Mt. Pleasant near Edinboro PA. They have 4 tubing lanes and you can tube for 3 hours for $15. It's awesome being able to fly down a hill on a large intertube and then get pulled back up. It's sled riding without the hike back up the hill! They also have skiing which I like to do and snowboarding which I will not try because I don't think we were meant to actually stand on a board in such an awkward position! They have a lodge with food concessions. The lodge is small but you don't go to sit in the lodge,so who cares?! It's more than adequate to eat and relax when you need to. For more information go to www.skimountpleasant.com

3) Read the Christmas Sweater by Glenn Beck. My sister got me this book for Christmas. It is a great, encouraging story that challenges you to look at your own life and faith. I like to read books but I am pretty slow in getting through them. I didn't want to stop reading this one because I wanted to find out how it ended. I was done reading it by the end of Christmas week which is probably a record for me.

Well, try those three things out and let me know what you think. I'll pass on a few more recommedations in the future. I bet you can't wait!

Have a great day in the Lord!

Super Bowl

2009-01-29T15:04:00.000-08:00

Ok, so its not a Pennsylvania Super Bowl. But, the right PA team is representing on Sunday. So far, that is the only prediction in which I have been correct. By the way, while watching the AFC championship game with friends, I predicted that Troy Polamalu would make an interception and return it for a touchdown long before it happened. I'm on my "A" game when it comes to the Black & Gold!!

So here goes my final prediction for the 2008 season: Steelers win Lombardi Tropy # 6by a score of 35-14 with the last touchdown by the Cardinals being late in the game against the back-ups.

Ben Rothleisberger & Hines Ward will have big games and Willie Parker will provide nice complimentary yardage in the running game. The Defense will play great as they have all year. Dick LeBeau will craft a scheme that will throw off the timing of the Arizona passing game by putting pressure on Kurt Warner. Larry Fitzgerald will get his catches but will be unable to make the big ones for a touchdown unless he gets that gift one at the end.

Enjoy the game!

By the way, I am getting a little annoyed with the guy in the office across the hall. How can a Browns fan even begin to comment on Steeler fans' needing to lighten up? First off, Browns fans aren't all that sane to begin with and they don't even know what it's like to root for a Super Bowl Champion!!!

Enjoying the Snow!

2009-01-14T07:16:00.000-08:00

I know not everyone appreciates the snow like I do (why they are living here and not Florida or some other warm climate locale is beyond me?!) but, I am enjoying the beauty and ruggedness of this past weekend's snowfall. We got around 10 inches of the white stuff with a little coating added to it yesterday.

Walking out in the crisp,cold air with all your surroundings draped in white especially, at night or in the early morning when all is quiet, is very refreshing. for me it is not a good winter (as far as weather is concerned) unless you have a few big snowfalls.

Lori, the kids and I had a blast sledding and wrestling in the snow. Our lab Ruby had particular fun chasing us. Her most enjoyable thing to do was to rip Lori's hat off as she would go down the hill and then run off with it!

Well, we had one big dumping of the white stuff. Let's hope there is a few more to come!

Playoff Prognosticator

2009-01-14T07:02:00.000-08:00

As I review my playoof predictions heading into Champiosnhip weekend, my attempt at being an NFL pundit was not very successful. The only team that I picked to make it this far, that is still in the hunt, is of course, the only team that matters--the Pittsburgh Steelers! Given that, I am not going to feel too bad that my other picks did not live up to my expectation.

So here is my revised picks for the Super Bowl--I am sticking with the Keystone State by calling Steelers vs. Eagles in Tampa with you know who (do I need to say the Steelers?) coming out with the Lombardi Trophy.

Go Steelers!

Congratulations USC

2009-01-02T06:10:00.001-08:00

Well, the Rose Bowl was disappointing to say the least. The 2nd quarter was downright infuriating. I was furious at Tom Bradley for not making defensive adjustments to stop the USC passing game. Mark Sanchez was on fire as he picked apart the secondary hitting his receivers on an endless barrage of seam routes. I wanted to see more pressure upfront and chipping the receivers at the line of scrimmage to create disruption in the passing game. However, none of that was to be.

Admittedly, I am far from an expert. That is why I watch the games on TV and not roaming the sidelines calling plays and defensive schemes. Obvioulsy, my view from the TV screen was limited and I did not spend hours in game prep. However, as a fan it was frustrating to watch a great defense get picked apart.

To add to the frustration was the costly penalties and mistakes that negated big plays and slowed down drives. The USC defense did enough to give the offense the ball and all Penn State could do was hang on until half-time.

Give credit to the team for playing hard and with results in the second half. However, USC's lead was too much to overcome.

My only criticism of the play calling on offense was the slow developing run on 3rd and less than a yard (or was it 4th down?) in the 2nd quarter when a QB sneak would have probably picked up the 1st down. I also wanted to see more passes down the field but the quickness of the USC defense put the pressure on enough to hinder any chances of going down the field until late in the game.

In the 2nd half, following USC's fumble, I would have liked to have seen them go for a big play down the field for a quick score or to set up one on the next play. I think that would have rewarded a demoralized defense and inspired thier play. It definitely would have changed the momentum of the game. Instead, Penn State ran the ball and ended up eventually giving the ball back to USC. Another critical play, was USC's last touchdown when the Penn State defensive back was caught looking in the back field and left his man streaking down the field wide open.

The difference in the game of course, was Mark Sanchez. He completed 82% of his passes. He hit his receivers in stride and was pretty much on target with his throws. His receivers did not have to make any difficult catches. If he is a little off in his timing and off target, it probably is a completely different ball game. He stepped up in a big way in a big game.

The Big Ten is definitely in a down-cycle when it comes to playing big games on the national stage. I agree with Kirk Herbstreit in his assesment of the quickness of the Big Ten versus other conferences is mostly seen in the offensive and defensive lineman and linebackers not the secondary and skill positions. USC's quickenss on the line allowed them to pressure Penn State's offense enough especially, in the 2nd quarter and their offensive line was quick enough to negate a talented defense.

It was not the ending any Penn State fan wanted to the season. But, it was great year--11-2 & Big Ten Champs. They were an exciting team to watch. They should be proud of what they accomplished. Looking forward to 2009! Fight on State!

New Year's Resolutions

2008-12-29T10:58:00.001-08:00

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Today, you may be making a concerted effort “to start the year off right”. Many of us are intending to live life better in 2009. It can be easy for us to make a list of resolutions but, we all know how difficult it can be to keep them.

The idea of making changes or improving our lives is very biblical. That is what salvation and sanctification are all about—that a relationship with Jesus Christ, born out of our faith in Him, results in a new life; a changed life. As Christians, we are called to examine ourselves, to confess our sins and to repent from them; to literally turn away from them. While the start of New Year is a perfect opportunity to do this, it really needs to be a daily thing that we do. But the success in making these changes does not rely on our list-making or will power; the success comes when we lean on the One who created us, loves us and has a plan for us.

So for your 2009 Resolutions, here is a key suggestion before making your list: make it a matter of prayer. Ask God to reveal His will for your life and to expose the things He would like to change in you. Then, seek His strength, wisdom, and courage to accomplish your resolutions and lean on a few Christian friends, too! The results will be very satisfying!

Rose Bowl

2008-12-29T08:33:00.000-08:00

I am pumped about watching Penn State play in the Rose Bowl New Year's Day! It has been a great season and a a lot of fun watching this team play.

The game should be one of the best games of the bowl season next to the "National Championship". You have two teams that are high-octane on offense and extremely tough on defense. Special teams are good as well. You also have two brilliant coaching staffs (yes, JoePa still has it and should keep on coaching but should name Tom Bradley the successor). I will be glued to the TV beginning @ 5pm on New Year's Day decked out in my Penn State gear!

Prediction: Penn State 35 USC 17

Fight on State! (You will represent the Big Ten much better than Ohio State!)

PS. Congrats to Pat White & the WVU Mountaineers! Only quaterback to win all 4 bowl games he started. Quite an accomplishment and a strong finish to a good season.

Here's hoping Pitt plays well in its bowl game. A win will cap off a great season and give them something to build on for next year. I do miss those great Penn State-Pitt games the day after Thanksgiving. The best, 1982(?) Penn State 48 Pitt 14. Todd Blackledge, Curt Warner, Kenny Jackson & the gang upset # 1 rank Pitt & Dan Marino!!

NFL Playoffs

2008-12-29T08:03:00.000-08:00

Wild-Card Round
Sat.-Sun., Jan. 3-4

AFC
Sat., Jan. 3, 8 p.m. ET, NBC
Indianapolis (12-4)
San Diego (8-8)

Sun., Jan. 4, 1 p.m. ET, CBS
Baltimore (11-5)
Miami (11-5)

Byes: Tennessee, Pittsburgh

NFC

Sat., Jan. 3, 4:30 p.m. ET, NBC
Atlanta (11-5)
Arizona (9-7)

Sun., Jan 4, 4:30 p.m. ET, FOX
Philadelphia (9-6-1)
Minnesota (10-6)

Byes: N.Y. Giants, Carolina

Divisional Round
Sat.-Sun. Jan. 10-11

Sat., Jan. 10, 4:30 p.m. ET, CBS
Ravens, Chargers or Colts
at Tennessee (13-3)

Sun., Jan. 11, 4:45 p.m. ET, CBS
Dolphins, Chargers or Colts
at Pittsburgh (12-4)

Sat., Jan. 10, 8:15 p.m. ET, FOX
Cardinals, Falcons or Vikings
at Carolina (12-4)

Sun., Jan. 11, 1 p.m. ET, FOX
Cardinals, Falcons or Eagles
at N.Y. Giants (12-4)

Championship Round Sun., Jan. 18
6:30 p.m. ET, CBS

3 p.m. ET, FOX

Super Bowl XLIII Sun., Feb. 1
6 p.m. ET, NBC

Predictions:
AFC: Tennessee v. Indianapolis
Pittsburgh v. Miami

Pittsburgh v. Indianapolis

NFC: Carolina v. Atlanta
NY Giants v. Philadelphia

NY Giants v. Carolina

Super Bowl: NY Giants v. Pittsburgh

Champions: Pittsburgh Steelers (going with my heart but the brain says NY Giants repeat)

In all honesty, this is a tough playoff field with a lot of teams that are very competitive except for the San Diego Chargers, Arizona Cardinals & Minnesota Vikings. As you look at the rest of the teams, you could make a strong case for anyone of them making it to the playoffs especially in the AFC.

Questions surrounding the Steelers include: 1) Will Ben recover well from his concussion to make the good decisions needed to win a tough playoff game ? (I don't argue with the call to let him play against the Browns--3 weeks is a lot of time to sit), 2) Is the running game strong enough to win tough playoff games and keep the other team off the field? The defense is the best in the NFL but, you don't want them being on the field too long against top teams in a playoff fight. 3) Will the Offensive Line pass protect & open holes in the run game?

This should be a very exciting playoff season!

Ministry That Makes A Difference

2008-12-29T07:51:00.000-08:00

Ministry That Makes A Difference
1 Thessalonians 2:1-12
Faith Country Chapel
December 28 2008

Introduction

This morning I would like us to look together at 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12. As I studied this passage in preparation to teach the Abundant Life Class last Sunday, it struck me that there are some lessons to be learned here that can inspire us as we move into the New Year.

You see, we just celebrated Christmas. Though, it’s a busy season of gift buying and wrapping, celebrations, family gatherings, special church services and programs; and many of us were exhausted Christmas night thinking the weeks leading up to that day were just a blur and wondering why we go through this year after year, I believe many of us, if not all of us here, get it. We get what Christmas is all about.

In the midst of all the craziness of the season, we understand why we celebrate Christmas. We know it’s about the birth of Jesus Christ. We know that He came to be our Savior—to save us from our sins; that in his death and resurrection we have the promise of eternal life. Many of us have given our life to Christ. We have had that moment where we have asked Jesus to be our Lord and Savior. Our faith in Him defines who we are and what we are about.

We get that even though this time of year is busy and we get caught up in all of the commercialization of the season, that deep in our hearts we are celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and sharing in the joy of such a life-changing gift from God, our Father. This is not meant to make any commentary, positive or negative on how we celebrate Christmas. I am simply saying that I think I know most of us here well enough to say that we know “the reason for the season” as is so commonly heard this time of year.

I also think that a lot of us want very much to see that other people “get it” especially, those in our circle of influence—be they family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, etc. We long for them to find the joy and hope that comes from knowing Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. We long for a world where “every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord” as it says in Scripture. We long for the peace and the love that would abound in such a world.

But, do you ever wonder how what we know in here gets lost in translation out there? In other words how do we take what we know and experience here and put it out there in a way that meaningfully impacts others?

After all, that is what we are supposed to do as Christians. That’s what the Great Commission is all about: Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. (Matt. 28:19 & 20a) Our motto here at Faith Country Chapel is to Impact Families for Jesus Christ. So how do we go about doing that?

In our passage today, we will learn some valuable principles from the example of the Apostle Paul that can significantly change the way you and I go about our daily lives and the way we do ministry together as a church.

So let’s look at 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12. We need to understand the context of this letter. The church at Thessalonica is a young church—about 2 or 3 years old. This young church is full of young Christians. Paul wrote to them to encourage them with practical advice and the hope of Christ’s return. They were confused by the “delay” in Christ’s return. Worse yet, they were being persecuted for their faith.

Paul spent time there planting the church. He came to them following a time of imprisonment in Philippi so he knew a thing or two about persecution. After he moved on from Thessalonica, he writes this letter to them to encourage them to follow his example of integrity even in the face of persecution and hostility.

Read 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12

As we examine this passage, we see that Paul sets the example for us in 4 ways:

1. Paul modeled a clear sense of priorities.
· Verse 2: but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition.
· Paul did not shrink in the face of persecution. He was committed to sharing the Gospel.
· Now here is something interesting to note. I would suggest to you that a lot of Paul’s “preaching of the Gospel” did not come in the form of sermons and bible studies. Look at verse 9—Paul and his associates were tent makers or leather workers in Thessalonica in order to support themselves. They did not want anyone to think they were ministering simply for financial gain. So even though as an Apostle he should have been supported by the church, he chose not to receive support from young believers so as not to have his ministry be called into question. All of this to say, that a lot of Paul’s ministry probably took place where he spent the most time—in & around his business. Work was simply a means of ministry both in terms of the support it gave him and the opportunities he had to interact with the Thessalonians.
· What is your workplace for you? What is your school? The band? Your hunting group? Your kids’ sport team or scout group? Is it just simply a paycheck or another activity or has God placed you there for a greater purpose?
· Having a clear sense of priority like Paul can change how you look at your daily schedule. Your work, your family, your school, your activities become more than just a job or something to do—they become places of ministry. Places to either verbally share the Gospel or to live the Gospel before men and not just in righteous living but in serving and ministering to the physical and spiritual needs of others.

2. Paul modeled a clear sense of concern for the integrity of the gospel.
· Paul’s motives were pure. As we read in verses 3-6, Paul knew how important the message was that he was given to preach and his desire was not to please men but God. In fact, the persecution he suffered was proof enough that he was not trying to please men. If he was, he was not very successful in doing so!
· Paul was careful about how he presented the gospel and as we already noted, he was concerned about how he handled financial matters. He did not want his behavior to call into question the message he proclaimed.
· I heard a speaker once share the message that “you are the only Jesus that someone knows.” For many non-Christians, their first impression of Jesus is you and I.
· Let’s be honest, we are not Jesus. But He is our Lord and Savior; we have a relationship with Him. We have the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We are capable of representing Him well. And if our heart is pure, grace is more than sufficient to redeem our failures.

3. Paul modeled a clear sense of love and commitment to those whom he ministered.
· Something special happened to Paul while he was in Thessalonica. The city became more than just another place to plant a church. The people became more than just new believers in Christ. Read verse 8.
· Paul loved these people. He was committed to them. There was a strong bond of friendship that developed among them. That only happens when we spend time together. When we fellowship together, share our lives—the good, the bad and the ugly! We laugh together, cry together, pray together, and encourage each other on in the truth of God’s Word and His Will for our lives. I know that sounds too much like a Hallmark movie for some of you but, God wants us to have a relationship with Him and with each other. That is why Paul was successful in his ministry in Thessalonica. That’s what made the difference in his ministry.
· I want to suggest something to you for 2009. Don’t overlook a small but important part of our worship—the Time of Fellowship. Yes, it may be a time to dismiss the kids to Jr. Church and Wee Church but it is also a time to introduce yourself to someone you may not know very well.
· Someday that person may read your name on our prayer list and be praying for you or they may need you to pray for them. Someday that person may need your help through a rough time in their life or they may be contributing to the Joseph Project from which you may receive help in a time of need. Someday you may be sitting side by side in a Bible Study on Wednesday night or serving together in Power JAM or on a Mission Trip. The Time of Fellowship is an important part of worship. Don’t miss the opportunity
· This is a warm and welcoming church. As your Associate Pastor, my family and I have felt it from the very beginning. Thankfully, the size of our fellowship continues to grow and it is important that we grow in our love and commitment in direction proportion to the numerical growth of our church.
· So shake a hand, give a hug and get to know one another. Better yet, get involved there is no better way to get to know others than to spend time together in a small group or Sunday School class or working together side by side on a project or a ministry program. (Hint: New Year’s Resolution)
· Better yet, let’s extend our warm and welcoming fellowship to the community around us. Let’s continue to find new ways to minister in our community, like we did with the Angel Tree Ministry motivated, as Paul was, by our desire to serve God and to love His people.

4. Paul modeled a clear sense of the goal toward which he worked.
· Read v. 12. Paul wanted to live a life worthy of God and to encourage others to do likewise.
· Notice how he did it. In verse 7, he described himself as “gentle like a mother caring for her little children” and in verse 11 & 12, like a father encouraging, comforting and urging his own children.
· Paul was bold and unashamed of the Gospel in which he lived and proclaimed before men even in the face of persecution. Yet, he was gentle and encouraging in the manner in which he conducted himself.
· It is imperative that we, as the Body of Christ remain committed to a bold proclamation of the Gospel and the Truth of God’s Word. We need not be ashamed of it. Increasingly, we stand in the midst of a world that rejects that truth and even mocks it. We may find different means to proclaim it, as the Church has done throughout the ages, but we must not compromise what we proclaim. We speak the truth and nothing but the truth so help us God!
· Yet, we must be winsome in our approach to others, as Pastor Brian has spoken of before. Just as God meets us where we are and moves us forward, we must be willing to meet others where they are and gently & purposefully urge them to the life that Christ has called them to—a new & everlasting life that can only be found in Him!

So let me leave you with 3 important reminders for ministry in 2009:

1. The importance of goals & priorities. I’m not talking about “New Year’s Resolutions”—losing weight, or exercising more or whatever may be on that list for you. What we are talking about is “what is the purpose of your life?” What are the priorities in the mission fields of your life—family, friends, work, your neighborhood and community and beyond. Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with working to provide for your family and pushing to get good grades in school but see beyond those priorities to the overarching priorities that God has called you to. Look at your schedule in the light of The Gospel you are called to live and to share with others. What a privilege that is.

2. Integrity. Knowing right from wrong and acting upon that knowledge even at a personal cost and without shame. Our faith should inform our decisions and motivate our actions.

3. Love and Commitment. We admire Mother Theresa but we avoid following her example. Bill Hybels once said, “Tell me how to show love without spending time, energy, or money, and I will gladly sign up. Tell me that love means sacrifice, however, and I become reluctant to commit myself.”

Are you at the fringes of Christian fellowship or are you like Paul “sharing your very life as well”? Make a commitment to your relationship with the church, your family and your community.

A life of faith, be it individually or as a church, that is clear in its priorities, lived with integrity and expressed in love and commitment, will make a tremendous, life-changing impact for the Kingdom of God. It truly is ministry that makes a difference!

This is the point of the message where a good pastor likes to bring it home; make it relevant to your life today; give you some practical application, some things to do that will make it stick and then you respond with “thank you Pastor for showing me the way!”

As much as I’d like to do that (and I have done some of that throughout the message), this is not one of those “one-size fits all” messages. Today, through the example of the Apostle Paul the principles of priorities, integrity and commitment have been presented to us. Each of us, myself included which is why I think I labored with this message, must prayerfully, and I stress prayerfully, consider how God is directing us to respond.

O Come, O Come Emmanuel

2008-12-29T07:50:00.001-08:00

Christmas-celebrating the birth of Christ—gains its significance when looked at through the eyes of Easter. To look at it any other way strips it of any relevance to our life and transforms it into a designated time of gift giving, family gatherings and charitable efforts. That is not meant to demean any of these activities. However, we must realize that Christmas in its very origin is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Therefore, when one looks at the significance of Christmas, one is confronted by who he claimed to be and the purpose for which he lived, died and rose again. We are also drawn to the promise of His return—The Second Coming of Christ.

Thus, when we sing O Come, O Come Emmanuel it is both a request for his saving presence in our life today and the hope for the glory of His Kingdom to come!

Joy

2008-12-29T07:49:00.001-08:00

You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 17:11

I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. John 15:11

In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. Luke 15:10

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4

The triumph of joy!

Love

2008-12-29T07:47:00.000-08:00

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. (John 10;11)

Raising sheep was common in ancient times. Sheep provided meat, wool, milk and cheese. The shepherd was important to the care of the flock. He would lead them to pasture and water while protecting them from wild animals. It was a relationship built on the humility and willingness to sacrifice on the part of the shepherd and the innate trust of the sheep.

In John 10, Jesus describes himself as the good shepherd. The good shepherd is different than the hired hand. The hired hand flees when wild animals stalk about because he cares nothing for the sheep while the good shepherd is willing to lay down his life to protect them. As the good shepherd, he knows his sheep and the sheep know him. They recognize and trust his voice so they follow him wherever he leads them knowing that he will provide and protect.

Jesus came to be the shepherd of your life—to lead you where you need to go, provide what you need along the way, and to protect you from the enemy. He knows you. He loves you. Do you know him? Do you trust him completely?

Peace

2008-12-09T08:47:00.000-08:00

A sword literally cut through the stillness of a peaceful night in Bethlehem as evil’s reign was threatened by the birth of a baby, the fulfillment of ancient Messianic prophecy.

Fast forward thirty-some years later, evil’s reign is threatened once again. This time it is not the sword but the cross that is the weapon of choice. The victim is not innocent babies but an innocent man—more than that, he IS the Son of God! The end result of all this violence? . . . . . . . . . . . . . Peace.

But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5)

Fast forward to today. Evil’s reign is still threatened. The battleground is our soul. This time though the battle has been won. The victory has been secured in Jesus Christ.

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (John 14:27)

Jesus brings eternal peace to our souls because His sacrifice restores our relationship with God. On this Second Sunday of Advent, we light the Candle of Peace in celebration of the Giver of Peace!

Hope

2008-12-09T08:36:00.001-08:00

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel.

Hope fulfilled . . . . in a baby.

Four hundred years of anticipation by an oppressed people, in one angelic moment, became 40 weeks of nervous wonderment for a young virgin and her betrothed.

Then as a bright star hung in the Bethlehem sky, the years and weeks of waiting quickly became an immediate fulfillment of prophecy—God was with us. The Emmanuel had arrived!

The fulfillment of hope became the possessor of Hope!!

This Advent Season, embrace the bearer of Hope, Peace, Love and Joy.

You will never be the same!