Keepin’ it Real

I was having a conversation yesterday with some of our ministry team. Our topic turned to the move of the Spirit and the way we allow Him to order our services. It reminded me of when we opened our doors in February of 2004. I was casting about for a slogan to put in a … Continue reading Keepin’ it Real

Grateful for the Message

I am having a gratitude attack this morning. The symptoms are a swollen heart and tears of joy when I think of how God has blessed me. In particular, I am grateful that He plopped me into this wonderful family of faith. I came to the Lord by myself reading a Billy Graham book in … Continue reading Grateful for the Message

Plan Time with God

While preparing to leave Panama this week, a couple of things struck me while negotiating the airport. As usual, after clearing security I headed for the men’s room. This is a recently remodeled facility. Millions of dollars were spent to provide a beautiful building with modern appurtenances. As I joined the march of men pulling … Continue reading Plan Time with God

God’s About to do Something.

The other day as I was thinking on the death of liberty and the demise of western cviization ( for I do believe that is what we are watching), I prayed what has become a common prayer of late: "Lord, what are we going to do?" Much to my surprise, in my heart I heard … Continue reading God’s About to do Something.

Give Them the Word

Every now and then I read or hear something so far outside my way of thinking it hardly seems real. Often I take another step or two before it hits me and my mouth drops. A few days ago a friend wrote me about a church where he was told they didn’t like to study … Continue reading Give Them the Word

Don’t Settle for Less than God’s Best

Many years ago, in another place and time, I had a fellow come to me with a big grin on his face. He shook my hand vigorously and announced, "Pastor, I believe God wants me to serve as an usher here." I encouraged him to do so, gave him the job description, and referred him … Continue reading Don’t Settle for Less than God’s Best

Thank God for the New Old Days

As Christmas gets close I tend to reminisce and, like many in my age bracket, wax philosophical about the “good old days.” I do miss my mom and dad, and Christmas at Grandma’s, etc. But this morning I am struck with how many things I am grateful for today that we didn’t have just a … Continue reading Thank God for the New Old Days

Love Constrains

So I'm standing in line with Judy at the salad buffet, tray in hand, ready for lunch. Ahead of us is another couple perusing the cabbage. They look to be 40ish, attractive and well-groomed. Suddenly, the woman takes out her cell phone and appears to read a text message. We stand waiting. She puts down … Continue reading Love Constrains

God Does Good Stuff!!

We just finished a season of collecting testimonies from the people in our church, both written and recorded. Last Sunday, the service was comprised of 4 testimonies. It was great! (If you missed it, you can watch it on line.) We had stories of recovery from addiction and sexual abuse and incarceration. God has been … Continue reading God Does Good Stuff!!

Keepin’ it Simple

If you could advise a young pastor what would you tell him? At our recent leadership meeting, Rev. Van Crouch shared several things he believed to be vital. Citing the mission of the local church to make disciples who live victoriously and bear fruit, he proposed a list of things that should be on the … Continue reading Keepin’ it Simple