Tribute to a Friend

One of my dearest friends on earth passed away Monday morning. Don was a giant of a man: a man of faith, wisdom and insight; a philosopher and a scholar until the day he died. He finally succumbed to age and Parkinson’s. He was my kids’ grandfather-in-residence while we were raising our girls far away from family. We joined together with him and Marian, his wife, and two of his daighters as they were planting the Nazarene Church in Laurinburg, NC. That was the church I was in when God called me to preach.

Don’s shadow was the one resting over me as I prepared for ministry. Much of what I am today as a pastor can be traced directly to the sharp insight, challenging words, and skillful hands of Don Ekis. I have never gotten away from those probing conversations. Nor do I ever want to. Last spring, Lana and I planned to see him on our way to SC. When I contacted Marian, she responded, we are leaving that very day to go to Texas to be near Carolyn. Oh, no! I didn’t want to think of it, but I felt in my heart, “I’ll never see Don on this earth again.” Still, I held some glimmer of hope that somehow, somewhere, sometime, I would. On Monday, that hope was gone. It was over.

But, that hope is in heaven with Jesus! I will have to await my own arrival there for another conversation. But, thanks be to God, in Jesus it’s never over!

The Bible teaches us that God is leading us “in triumphal procession.” He is changing us from glory to glory. What was the former glory is nothing compared to the surpassing glory that is ahead. Thanks, Don, for showing us the way.

Blogging and the Realities of Life

Last Monday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Ezekiel 32
NT: 2 Timothy 2
W&W: Psalm 119.89-96

Last Tuesday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Ezekiel 33
NT: 2 Timothy 3
W&W: Psalm 119.97-104

Last Wednesday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Ezekiel 34
NT: 2 Timothy 4
W&W: Psalm 119.105-112

Last Thursday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Ezekiel 35-36
NT: Titus 1
W&W: Psalm 119.113-120

Last Friday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Ezekiel 37
NT: Titus 2
W&W: Psalm 119.121-128

Monday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Ezekiel 38
NT: 2 Titus 3
W&W: Psalm 119.129-136

Today’s Reflection:

Wow! I just got a dose of reality. I’ve been staying “just ahead” of my blog in recent days, and last week proved to me that sometimes life comes at you fast. I feel like I could have been in a Nation-wide commercial! I just wasn’t prepared for the demands of my schedule.

So, I apologize for not posting at all last week – especially since I am urging you to read the scriptures along with me! Today, I have posted last week’s scripture – in hopes that you tried to keep up and that all you need to do is confirm that you’ve read what you needed to. I also have posted today’s scripture so you don’t get behind for this week.

Be back tomorrow…

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Let’s try a whole Psalm today – the shortest “chapter” in the Bible – Psalm 117: Praise the Lord, all you nations; extol him, all you peoples. For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.

Ask for Healing

Yesterday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 64-65
NT: Romans 16
W&W: Psalm 89.1-13

Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 66
NT: 1 Corinthians 1
W&W: Psalm 89.14-29

Today’s Reflection:

Sorry I missed posting yesterday. I was with Lana at the hospital. She is scheduled for gall bladder surgery today, and I need to run up there right now.

I thank God that we believe in the Bible doctrine of divine healing. I thank God that he heals through the means of medical science as well as through miraculous interventions. I am confident that God will help the doctors and that he also will give Lana a specific touch of healing for her recovery.

As this week’s scripture reminds us: Ask and it will be given you! Join me in asking God for a successful surgery and speedy recovery! Also, if you have need of a touch from God, let me know. I will pray for you, too!

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.7-8: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks find; and to him who knocks the door will be opened.

Due Date!

Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 51
NT: Romans 5
W&W: Psalm 78.65-72

Today’s Reflection:

A little late getting started today. My 9-months pregnant daughter Jenny had a doctor’s appointment this morning (her due date) and the doc sent her on to the hospital. Seems like she was readier than we thought! Yay!

Both grandmothers are at the hospital with Jenny and Eric. I’ve been home with Avery, and just got her down for a nap. My middle daughter, Emily, is enroute from Charleston, and poor Amy is stuck in Michigan until next Wednesday! The “rival grandpa” is booked on a flight Tuesday. I wonder if he can wait that long!

God is so good to us. Have a great weekend. We will!

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
1 John 1.10: If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.

A New Beginning

Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 41
NT: Acts 24
W&W: Psalm 73

Today’s Reflection:

It was a great day yesterday. I began my ministry in the pulpit of Bethel Church of the Nazarene. It was “A New Beginning.”

After Dr. Doug Van Nest (our District Superintendent) presented Lana and me to the congregation (It was somewhat embarrassing to be received with a standing ovation), we joined with Kami and Mark (our worship leader) Owen in singing an a capella rendition of “My Jesus I Love Thee.” After that I preached my first sermon of many to come to the good congregation at BNC.

My scripture text was the first three verses of Mark, with special emphasis on the opening phrase: “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ.” As I shared what it means for a pastor and people to begin their journey together, I felt the hand and heart of God helping me. God was in that gathering!

I concluded the message with an invitation for all those who would commit to a new beginning to stand to their feet. I felt urged on by the eagerness of the people: Even as I was giving the instructions, there was a sense of “Hurry up, Pastor! We want to stand before God and commit to this new beginning!” As soon as I “turned them loose,” the whole congregation spontaneously moved to their feet. Several made their way to the altar and many others joined them to pray.

After the time of prayer, Dr. Van Nest installed me as pastor along with my helpmate and partner in ministry. I will share with you tomorrow the covenant we made as pastor and people.

God is to be praised! I am so grateful for his call to Bethel Church of the Nazarene. It is indeed a new beginning: for Lana and me, and for this church.

On this Monday, I close with this: God is a God of New Beginnings. If you need to make a fresh start in life, you can do it! Let him give you a new beginning!

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
1 John 1.9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Happy Anniversary

Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 34-35
NT: Acts 20
W&W: Proverbs 28

Today’s Reflection:
I am going to skip ahead three days to quote a few verses from Proverbs 31 (This Friday’s W&W passage):
10 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. 11 Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. 12 She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life… 27 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. 28 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 29 "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."

Today, Lana and I celebrate 30 years of marriage. Reiterating what I wrote May 19, in these thirty years I have personally known the truth of what the Wisdom Writer meant when he wrote in another place: “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD” (Proverbs 18.22).

We did a little reminiscing this morning as we thanked God for our years together. We have lived in many places in these thirty years:

• Bowling Green, OH as we started out together – I a chemist and she a student at BGSU.
  Findlay, OH where Jenny was born.
• Laurinburg, NC where Emily and Amy were born and where God called us into ministry. There we met life-long friends Don and Marian Ekis.
• Kings Mountain, NC where we pastored our first church. It was a three year “honeymoon.”
• Concord, NC where our girls discovered that band kids really were nerds: They all became just that (in varying degrees).
• Hendersonville, NC where Jenny and Emily got all grown-up on us and left for college. We still have the mountains and friends of Hendersonville in our hearts!
• Sterling, IL where our baby, Amy, grew up and went off to college. That baby is now married! Bob and June and others from there are still "with" us on the journey.
• Circleville, OH where God brought us back to our “home” of Ohio and gave us the joy of being grandparents. While we were there, God also gave us Jon and Eric, two additions to our family that have warmed our hearts and brought us so much joy. There were others who wove themselves into the fabric of our hearts: Gabrielle, Nicklaus, and Jonathon – “the trips”; Audrey; Joel and Halle; these and other precious little ones along with their moms and dads. Other friends – too numerous to mention – still give us great happiness in conversations, visits and memories.

Now, after two months of the gypsy life, we are settling in at Bethel, OH. We don’t know what good memories are in store for us here, but we are looking forward to serving and loving the people of the Bethel Nazarene Church and to making new life-long friends. We also will welcome Annabelle Grace soon. She is “scheduled” to arrive in Georgia on June 19. "Nana" and "Pahpooh" are ready to take off at a moment’s notice to celebrate her arrival.

I know I have left some people out of this recitation. We will remember them with joy on other occasions. But to you, Lana, I say that every place has been a place of love and happiness for you are my constant companion in all things “us,” and I thank God for you today. Who knows, if you keep me healthy, maybe we’ll have another 30 years – or more! – to enjoy the favor of God’s blessings together!

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
1 John 1.7-8: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.

The Message Unloosed!

Today’s, Yesterday’s and Tuesday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 11-16
NT: Acts 5-7
W&W: Proverbs 13-15

Today’s Reflection:
Sorry I have been unable to post my blog the last couple of days. Contrary to the commercials – for a guy who is technologically challenged and impoverished, the internet is not always findable! I hope you have kept up – or will catch up with the readings.

I’m in Bethel, OH now, preparing for my start-up on June 7 as pastor of the Bethel Nazarene Church. Through the generosity and kindness of a sister in the Lord, Lana and I have been able find a house to rent without a lease and at a very reasonable price. God is helping us! We thank HIM for his faithfulness.

In Acts 5, we read of the story of the apostles being arrested – again – for preaching in the name of Jesus, but “during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. ‘Go, stand in the temple courts,’ he said, ‘and tell the people the full message of this new life’” (Acts 5.19-20).

The apostles did as they had been instructed, entering the temple courts and teaching the people. The high priest and his associates were in for a surprise the next morning when they sent for them in the jail: “On arriving at the jail, the officers did not find them there. So they went back and reported, ‘We found the jail securely locked, with the guards standing at the doors; but when we opened them, we found no one inside’” (Acts 5.22-23).

Once again, the Sanhedrin sent guards and made the apostles appear before the high priest. And, once again, they told them not to preach or teach in the name of Jesus. “Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than men’” (Acts 5.29).

The message was unloosed! When Jesus came forth from the grave, the message of the gospel was set free! Now, Peter and the other apostles confessed: We have to tell the good news! God told us to!

In this season of my life, I feel a particular connection to the message being unloosed. I have received a call to pastor again, and I must obey God! In reality, however, I am thankful that the message never was bound! Yes, I did not have a current assignment in the pulpit of a church, but, God continued to proclaim hope and light through me – mostly without words!

Is the message unloosed in your life? Circumstances need not bind the message of Jesus. The jail, the beatings, even the martyrdom of the apostles could not silence the message of hope. Nor need it silence you and me. “Oh God, unloose the message!

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
1 John 1.4-5: We write this to make our joy complete. This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.

Happy Birthday, Mom!

Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 6-7
NT: Acts 2
W&W: Proverbs 10

Today’s Reflection:
Today is my mother’s birthday. She would have turned 80 today, but instead, she is celebrating her birthday in heaven for the 4th time. Mom was an amazing lady. Life dealt her some impossible hands, but she always seemed to make something of them, and – using a euchre analogy – take quite a few “tricks” along the way.

As was the case with my brothers and sisters, all my friends loved Mom. They loved to be around her because she always was cheerful and picked up our spirits. And Mom loved to be with us and our friends, too. I remember how we would make go home from college and make Mom stay up late at night and play euchre. I remember one night my brother Al and I were playing against Mom and Kim, a college roommate. They were winning, so we wouldn’t let them go to bed. Neither Mom nor Kim could keep their eyes open, but they still kept on winning. Finally – about 4:00 a.m. – my dad yelled in something I can’t remember. I’m sure even if I did remember I’m sure I couldn’t repeat it!

Nothing seemed to get her down, but she always had something positive to share with those around her. She lived what she taught me when I was a young teen with a temper and a tendency to lash out at people: “You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.” I never knew why anyone wanted to catch flies, but I know that Mom was always spreading honey! That’s why Mom had lots of friends. I remember how overwhelming it was on the day of her memorial service in Montpelier – how many people came. Even after being gone from her home town for 25 years, Mom still was drawing – not flies but friends! If Mom had any enemies in her life, I don’t know who they were.

I didn’t realize it so much at the time, but it was Mom who taught me to love life and love people. One of the things I do well is to be an “Includer.” That means I try to make sure everybody is included in the group – that no one is left out. As I look back on my Mom’s life I know where I learned that. Mom included everybody in her love. She made sure nobody was on the outside looking in but instead that everybody was on the inside. And because of that we are all better, “richer” people.

Happy birthday, Mom!

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
1 John 1.3: We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.

And, It’s Morning!

Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 3-4
NT: John 21
W&W: Proverbs 8

Today’s Reflection:
John 21 reports a post-resurrection appearance of Jesus to some of his disciples at the Sea of Galilee. They – following the lead of Simon Peter – had gone there to fish. They had fished all night but had come up empty. Verse 4 says, “Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.”

It was understandable that the disciples did not recognize Jesus. After all, it was early in the morning, and the day was not yet clear and bright. Also, they were about 100 yards from the shore. Having worked all night without results, they were tired, discouraged and distracted. It was difficult to focus. Jesus did not come to them in the “usual” way, the way that he had in the past on the Sea of Galilee – walking on the water. They were distracted by their labors and not ready to see Jesus. As we consider all this, we understand why they did not realize it was Jesus on the shore.

I remember an occasion when my dear friend Aaron tried to give me a Christmas gift in the midst of a time like this. Lana and I were trying to get the family ready to be out of town for a few days. I had worked long, hard hours at the church the several days before we were to leave. On the day we were leaving town, I had gone by the office for just a brief moment to take care of things and it had – as always! – taken longer than I wanted it to. I was frustrated and distracted. As I hurried out of the office into the parking lot, Aaron tried to give me a wonderfully thoughtful gift. As I remember the incident, I remember how unappreciative I was. (I hope Aaron doesn’t remember!) I was not ready to receive my friend, much less the gift he was giving me.

So, I understand the disciples unawareness of who it was on the shore. They weren’t ready for their friend. Jesus came, none-the-less. And may I personally testify that he has come to me as well? With the events of the past year and a half, the night has seemed long. Although the sun is rising, the day is not yet clear; I am still a good distance from “shore”; it’s never been like this before; and I’m distracted.

But here he is! And it’s morning! Hallelujah!

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
1 John 1.3: We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.

Revival Report

Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 1-2
NT: John 20
W&W: Proverbs 7

Today’s Reflection:
We started revival services yesterday at the Lynn Church of the Nazarene. It was great to be back in the pulpit, preaching the Word of God. I am so grateful to Pastor Tom and the people of the church for this opportunity. I also appreciate the fact that Lana is helping Darlene with the music. The ladies and the praise team are doing a wonderful job!

The New Testament reading for today is perfect for me as I begin a revival. In John 20.21-22, we find the following words of Jesus: “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you… Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” As I read that, I realized anew that Jesus is sending me! I have a tendency to struggle with confidence, and it has been even harder in recent months. These words of Jesus, however, renew my assurance and my excitement about preaching the gospel. Jesus has commissioned me! I go in his power and authority!

Yesterday morning I preached about being Red Hot for Jesus. How is your spiritual temperature? I shared a quote from an old hymn during the message: “Lord it is my chief complaint that my love is weak and faint. Yet I love you and adore. Oh for grace to love you more!” Are you on fire for Jesus? Remember, “You have not because you ask not.” God’s grace will give you that love if you ask for it. John the Baptist said of Jesus, “He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire…” Ask the Holy Spirit to ignite a flaming love in your heart for Christ!

Last night we examined the condition of our hearts. I told the congregation of a man (let’s call him Joe) who inherited ten million dollars. The problem was he had a heart condition that was so bad that his family thought he might have a heart attack and die when he got the good news. They asked his pastor if he could help them. The pastor agreed to do so and went to Joe’s house. He came up with a method to break it to him gently. In the course of the conversation, he nonchalantly said, “Joe, what would you do if you inherited ten million dollars?” Joe said, “Pastor, I think I would give half of it to the church.” At that the pastor promptly had a heart attack and died!

We all have a heart condition of some sort. From the story of King David bringing the Ark of the Covenant back into Jerusalem found in 2 Samuel 6. I asked the people to consider three heart conditions: a careless heart (Uzzah), a callused heart (Michal), and a constant heart (David). Once again, we arrived at the conclusion that we need God’s grace to give us a constant heart. God, in his sanctifying grace, will give us a constant heart that will help us even in our failures and mistakes.

Dear friend, as the following verse says, I urge you to join me in finding help and assurance in the Word of God.

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
1 John 1.3: We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.

The House of God

Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Job 31
NT: John 11
W&W: Psalm 71.1-16

Today’s Reflection:

As part of the interview process for a new ministry position, Lana and I visited the congregation of the Church of the Nazarene in Bethel, Ohio this past Sunday. Bethel is a suburb of Cincinnati. I feel that we probably will go to the Bethel Church.

First of all, several weeks before we received the call to visit the congregation, I sensed God’s call to “The House of God,” not making a connection to Bethel, Ohio. (Bethel means house of God.) Then, as I prayed one morning following the call to meet the board, I sensed God saying, “This is what I meant when I called you to serve in ‘The House of God’ several weeks ago.”

Secondly, we seemed to fit in with the people the other night. I like a small town, and these folks seemed like my kind of people. Lana was quite comfortable meeting the congregation as well. (She did a great job in front of them, too!)

We spent the day yesterday looking at real estate, in anticipation of receiving the call. It was a great day with friends Dan and Linda Miller.

We came up to Michigan last night to spend a few days with Amy and Jon in Saginaw. Then it’s back to Georgia to see Avery! (I think Jenny and Eric will be there, too…) I have a revival in Lynn, Indiana the first week of May. Then we’re off to Illinois the 8th and 9th for Amy’s graduation. (She finished in December but will “walk” in May.) After that, we will see how the vote goes and then hopefully be in Bethel to find a house and get back into pastoral ministry! Yay! We are so excited!

During this time of uncertainty, we have felt certain of God’s faithfulness. We have never felt panicky or like things were out of control. We have consistently sensed God working his will. From one step to the next, God has given us just enough light to keep moving ahead. It’s been an adventure for us, and the peace of Christ has been incredible!


This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
1 John 1.1: That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.

Gypsy!

Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Job 3-4
NT: Luke 20
W&W: Psalm 60


Today’s Reflection:

Today Lana and I begin our gypsy life. I decided that since I have been saying that for a few weeks now I should probably know what a gypsy is. I didn’t know it, but the term gypsy actually has it’s root in the word “Egypt” where the original gypsies of England were thought to have migrated from.

The Oxford dictionary defines gypsy as: “a member of a wandering race (by themselves called Romany), of Hindu origin, which first appeared in England about the beginning of the 16th c. and was then believed to have come from Egypt.” We’re not Hindus, but it may not be much of a stretch to trace our spiritual ancestry back to Moses and Israel coming out of Egypt. But we can definitely say that we are wandering!

It will be an exciting time for us! I'll try to keep you updated through my blog, but may not post every day. Please keep us in your prayers.


This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Isaiah 53.10-11: Yet it was the LORD's will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand. After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities.

Easy Button

Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Esther 6-7
NT: Luke 16
W&W: Psalm 56


Today’s Reflection:

“I am under vows to you, O God.” These words of David in Psalm 56.12 are echoed in my own soul today. Lana and I are praying diligently about where we will next go in our ministry. Since there seems to be several choices on the horizon, my brother-in-law actually accused me of making it confusing! He said that even God had to give me several options to choose from because I’ve made it difficult. Can you believe that? My own brother-in-law!

Perhaps he is right… It seems that God’s road map for us is beginning to unfold. But which road do we take? Then I came across what David wrote: “I am under vows to you, O God.” That clears everything up! It’s like I hit the “easy button” from Staples. I don’t have to worry about choosing between complicated options. I only have to follow Jesus! And, I settled that question long ago. I will follow where he leads. The choice is not mine; it is his!

Are you in that position today? Have you gotten to a place in your surrender to Jesus Christ, that the choice is his? Jesus said that anyone who would come after him must deny himself, take up his cross and follow him. That’s the real choice. Once you’ve made that one, the others come “easy”! So, push the “easy button.” Make the decision to follow where he leads!


This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Isaiah 53.8-9: By oppression and judgment he was taken away. And who can speak of his descendants? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was stricken. He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.

Praying the Words of Jesus

Today’s Scripture Readings:

• OT: Ezra 7
• NT: Mark 15
• W&W: Psalm 39

Today’s Reflection:

When I read Mark 15, two statements from Jesus stood out to me: “Yes, it is as you say” (Mark 15.2), and “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Mark 15.34). I invite you to “listen in” on my conversation with the Lord…

First of all, I know, Lord, it is as you say. I wait for you to speak in my future, for you have spoken in my past. All you have decreed is, and all you shall decree will be. Speak, Lord:

• To me so that I can know your will
• To Lana so that she can know your will
• To those involved in calling me to my next assignment so they can know your will
• To my children so they can help us discover your will

Speak, Lord, for your word is reality! It is as you say!

Also, Lord, I see that Pilate said more than he understood when he called you the King of the Jews. May the same be the case for those involved in calling me and for those praying for me. Would it be possible that a “word of prophesy” – a word that goes beyond human understanding and calculation – might be spoken by them? May it be so obviously from God that it would be said of all those involved, “Is Saul also among the prophets?” So may it be as they say!

To that end, Lord, may I speak words that will bring about your will. By faith may my words – “Be removed and thrown into the sea” – move all mountains and bring about the Kingdom of God. Do this in my preaching (revivals and pulpit supply coming up) and in my situation with job and ministry. May I be discerning and courageous enough so that it will be as I say!

Lord Jesus, your next statement recorded in Mark 15 arose from the depth of your identifying with my sinfulness. I could never understand what you experienced as the Son of God to feel forsaken by your Father. Yet, there is a cry that arises from my heart. I feel afraid, at times overwhelmed. Alone. Hearing your cry from the cross, I know, Lord, that you understand me. As a matter of fact your understanding of my situation goes deeper than my own understanding of it. In that I am comforted.

My Jesus, may I never “feel sorry for myself,” but may I always look to your example and find courage in your courage, faith in your faith, and obedience in your obedience.

Amen.


This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Isaiah 53.2-3: He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

God Is Up to Something Big!

“We have left everything to follow you” (Mark 10.28) Thus was Peter’s response when Jesus told the disciples of the demands for entering the Kingdom of God.

As most of you reading this blog already know, Lana and I are in the midst of significant changes in our lives. I have been “between assignments” since November 2, 2008, when I resigned my position at Circleville Nazarene. Since that time I have been diligently seeking a place of ministry as pastor of a local church or in any other capacity as God would direct. I have entered into a considerable reading and self-education program. Even so, the right door to my next assignment has not yet opened. We have consistently felt impressed of the Lord to “Wait.” And, we are still waiting. On top of the that is the good news that it looks as though our house will be sold my mid-March, and we will have to be out by March 31.

But we are not worried! As I read Mark 10, I realize that Jesus recognizes that Lana and I have left everything to follow him. 20 years ago, we left our home and security to go where Jesus called us. But, true to his word, Jesus has given us homes of joy and peace and growth. In spite of the fact that our kids are spread across three states (We’re down to one time zone, though!), Jesus has given us a deepening relationship with our children and each other. He has given us the joy of seeing our daughters and sons-in-law love and serve him. Yet, also true to his word here in Mark 10, along with the blessings have come “persecutions” or perhaps better described as trials. Our current uncertainty is one such trial.

Still, we have great expectation as we wait upon the Lord! We have confidence that God will see us through this “tight” place into a broad and spacious place. May he grant us wisdom to do what is right. We know God will give us wisdom (James 1.5), so we ask with confidence that you, dear friends, pray with us for the right doors to open in the next 5 weeks. God is up to something big! For, he is a big God!

Prayer and Fasting Day

Today is a prayer and fasting day for Lana and me. Lana and I are trusting in the Lord regarding our future, but it seems the more I personally go "on record" about resting and trusting that the more my resolve to wait on the Lord is put to the test. I am reminded of a couple emails I sent to friends this morning:

1. This morning I read how God left Hezekiah "to test him and to know everything that was in his heart" (2 Chron 32.31). I don't know if this is happening or not, but I do know that I must be faithful. Earlier, Hezekiah passed a different test when he saw Sennacherib coming (again, 2 Chron 32). How did he pass that test? He encouraged others and got together with the prophet Isaiah for a heaven-touching session of prayer! God intervened on his behalf and rewarded his faithfulness and his encouraging spirit. God sent Sennacherib back to Assyria before the battle was ever begun. But, later Hezekiah had to pass the test mentioned in v. 31. Thus, I ask you to join me in prayer. I don’t want to neglect my Source of strength in this time – nor do I want miss out on the help and encouragement that your prayers and friendship will bring today.
2. I want you to know that God is able to give total and complete victory. Let us pray for that miracle of grace in ______’s life. I know it is possible. With God all things are possible – even the healing of your family. The sun came out through the clouds and rain this morning, and I was reminded that God’s Son rises to shine upon us each day – through the darkness and/or gloom. And I realized this anew this morning: without the very real feelings of loss and hopelessness, our faith and trust and rest is all just the power of positive thinking. It’s all meaningless until it means something in the real battles and struggles and temptations of life.

Be encouraged, fellow pilgrims! Love in Christ Jesus to you all.

Reflecting on a Sunday in the Lord’s House

How thankful I am for the opportunity to speak at Sciotoville Church of the Nazarene the past two Sundays. Thanks to those of you who prayed for me and for the services.

What a blessing it was for me to meet and worship with those fine folks. I came away strengthened in my spirit and encouraged in my soul. God helped us as we worshiped in song, and there was a strong desire on the part of his people just to praise and thank God for his blessings. I heard many wonderful testimonies as I waited to take my turn to preach.

God helped me as I preached from John 1.12-13: “To all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, children born not of natural descent nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.” My topic was Children of God are born, not made. Though the visible “response” was not intense, there was a sense that God was planting seeds of truth in the hearts of many. And, I am thankful for the response of those who came to pray at the altar. God helped them in definite ways. Praise the Lord for his faithfulness!

Also, I want to thank God for the wonderful Sunday school class that Lana and I were in the past two weeks. Both lessons were just what I needed to hear. The teacher this past Sunday – Pastor Ed – reminded us that though we pray and God promises, there may be (may very well be!) a delay in the fulfillment of our prayers and God’s promises. This does not mean that our prayers are ineffective nor does it mean that God’s promises are not certain. It means simply that we don’t see all the particulars and the myriad connections that make up the will of God. As Pastor Ed taught, my mind went to a scripture that has been a refuge for my soul in the last year: “I am still confident of this – I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27.13-14). Lana and I are in a position of waiting, and I needed the reminder that came through the Spirit in class.

Lana and I are thankful for the Sciotoville Nazarenes who graciously welcomed us as guests in their services these past two weeks. And we are thankful for the small role that we were allowed to play in the ongoing fulfillment of God’s purposes for that congregation.

Have a great Tuesday! Oh, I heard something on the radio this past week about doing a little more exercise this week so you don’t gain the 2 pounds that are typical for Americans celebrating Thanksgiving. So maybe we should all just take a hike!

Point of Personal Privilege

This morning I am introducing a new “label” for my postings. In blogs labeled “Point of Personal Privilege,” I share matters concerning my ministry and family. I hope you will enjoy them.

I preached last week at Sciotoville Church of the Nazarene (Ohio) and will return there this week. I am going there as “pulpit supply.” I think that’s a technical term meaning – “We couldn’t find anybody else so will you do it?”!

I don't want this to be just two weeks of fill-in for Sciotoville and for Pastor Scott. I want supernatural results because we have trusted and we have obeyed God. I believe that God made this appointment between preacher and people. My excitement about this Sunday’s service is growing. God is ready to do something! I can hardly wait to see what it is!

Join me in fasting a meal today or tomorrow or Saturday. Encourage others that you know to pray for the service. Pray for the people of that church to be Spirit-empowered to invite their unchurched family and friends. Pray that unbelievers will respond to these invitations. Pray that God moves powerfully on the hearts of these invited people leading up to and in the service. Pray that the presence of God moves everyone in the service. Pray that I and the Christians there will be sensitive to the leading of the Spirit. And especially pray this for those who will come to the altar to pray with people. I believe these folks are hungry for a move of God. The Holy Spirit reminded me yesterday that they “have said yes to God and want to go forward.”

“Pray also for me that I may fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly as I should” (Ephesians 6.19-20). “Pray for me, too, that God may open a door for my message, so that I may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should” Colossians 4.3-4).

I am reminded of what one preacher said to me: “God didn’t call me to preach to pews!” So, I’m praying for a packed house this week. I want – for God’s glory and their good – God’s house to be full. It’s amazing how exciting this prayer is when I am not in a position to do anything about it or to receive anything from it. May God pour out revival on his church in this day! I would be humbled to witness his hand of grace and his heart of love moving at the Nazarene Church in Sciotoville, Ohio.

“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’"

“Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping carrying seed to sow will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him!”

“So is my word that goes out from my mouth; it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace. The mountains and the hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands. Instead of the thorn bush will grow the pine tree, and instead of briars the myrtle will grow. This will be for the Lord’s renown, for an everlasting sign which will not be destroyed.”

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the earth.”

“And afterward I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, and your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days… And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved!”

Why am I feeling this way about this Sunday's service? Our God is moving in my soul! As I said above, I believe God has appointed these two services together for his purposes and glory. I feel as if God has been just waiting to do something wonderful in my life and in that church in these two weeks. I have a sense of anticipation and the confirmation of faith that God will do immeasurably more than all we could ask or imagine.

Ask largely, my friends! Ask largely!