After All, It's Christmas!

Have you noticed the way Christmas affects people?  This is the time of year that you see such peculiar behavior.

What makes people totally redecorate their houses with trees, candles, lights, and outdoor displays?  Grown men will risk life and limb to put lights on the roofs of their houses, just to out do their neighbors.  Families will trek out to the woods to cut down a perfectly healthy tree, cover it with fake snow, rearrange furniture to put it up in their house, decorate it with lights and ornaments, as it slowly dies.  It doesn’t make sense, but after all, it’s Christmas.

Only at Christmas time, do you find people eating things like “fruitcake” and drinking stuff called “egg nog.” This time of year, people will fight traffic to go to the mall and park two times zones away, to brotherly shove one another, to stand in long check-out lines, to spend money they don’t have, to purchase gifts for people who don’t need them.  It doesn’t make much sense, but after all, it’s Christmas.

Over two thousand years ago, God sent His Son into the world, not as a King or mighty warrior, but as a baby wrapped in rags with a feed trough for a bed.  Jesus, was not born in a major city like Rome nor Jerusalem, but instead a small town called Bethlehem. His earthly parents were not royalty or rich, just an ordinary carpenter and his young wife.  His miraculous arrival was first announced to lowly shepherds and stargazers instead of the high priests or world leaders.  All this strikes me as a bit peculiar…but after all, it’s Christmas.  Only God would have ever thought of Christmas.

In the midst of the craziness of Christmas time, never lose sight that we celebrate the Incarnation of Christ. God gave the world, a gift wrapped in human flesh to dwell among men to reveal God to us.  He lived without sin but died for sinners like me.  He rose from the grave to prove that He truly was Lord of all and that everlasting life was His to give, as a gift to all who would believe. That doesn’t make much sense, but after all, it is Christmas.

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Begotten Son that whoseover believes in Him would not perish but have everlasting life."…(John 3:16)

May the greatest gift of all be yours!

Have a Blessed Christmas,
Ellis & Jackie Hayden

A New Beginning...Cornerstone Church

"You can't teach an old dog a new trick," is an adage that describes how difficult and infrequent it is for mature, established, routine loving "old dogs" like myself " to try something new.  Admittedly, after pastoring four established churches with a combined history of over 300 years, I find myself "learning a new trick," starting a new church. On the 6th of December, we will have the first gathering of what we envision will become "Cornerstone Church."

Not since, Jackie and I loaded all our worldly belongings in a cattle trailer and moved to Ft. Worth, TX, to attend seminary, (without a place to live and no jobs), have we taken a greater leap of faith. We covet your prayers as we begin this ministry in Gladewater, TX, where we have lived and ministered for the past 11 years.  We have been promised some support, but until we become more established as a congregation, we are strictly going forward by faith.

 I am excited to be able to build a church from the ground up, piece by piece, which is what led me to the name, Cornerstone Church. The cornerstone, in ancient world construction, was more than a ceremonial stone which contained artifacts for future generations.  The cornerstone was the first stone laid to anchor and be the standard of the foundation for rest of the structure.  To have the opportunity to lead and equip a group of believer's who are willing to make Christ the cornerstone of their lives and his church at it's inception is a special privilege.

"Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.  In Him the whole building is joined together and rises to become the holy temple in the Lord.  And in Him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in God lives by His Spirit."  (Ephesians 2:19-22)  

In Frances Chan's book, "Crazy Love," he asked, "How many of you have read the New Testament and wondered if we in the church are missing it?"  That thought inspired me to seek God and His word to know what He desires His church to be. Out of that search came the vision for Cornerstone Church to be "a group of believers who are committed to the gospel of Jesus Christ and who resolve to display an accurate picture of God to believers and unbelievers in the community of Gladewater and around the world."  It's not original, because that is what every church ought to be.  The foundation of every church must be Christ and truth of the Scriptures. He is the chief cornerstone upon which everything is built. That's where we must begin.

I invite you to become prayer partners is this new work.  I would like you to acknowledge that you will be a  prayer partner for the launch of Cornerstone Church, by commenting on the blog or facebook entry.  Your intercession is the most important way that you can support us.  As you pray, these are some specific needs:
Core group of people who grasp the vision of Cornerstone Church to join us
Worship Leader and musicians
Nursery and Children's workers
Video Projector and sound system
Website and someone with the know-how to make it top notch
Financial Support (rental of meeting place $200 per month, resources, publicity)
A Sponsoring Church to mentor and support
Employment for me (I anticipate being bi-vocational)
Jackie's Photography Business
Our Family's protection from Satan's assaults

Our first gathering will be Sunday, December 6th at 10:00 AM at the Bailey's Community Building (next to the Ace Hardware Store) on Hwy. 80 in Gladewater, TX.  We invite you to come and join us for worship.

We will keep you posted on what God is doing.
In Christ's Love,
Ellis and Jackie Hayden

When the Answer Comes Knocking at Your Door...

I received this story from my brother, George who received it from a friend in an email.  I've tried to verify the story, but haven't been able to determine if its true or just another "East Texas Tall Tale." 

 A TEXAS BEER JOINT SUES A CHURCH.....   In a small Texas town, ( Mt. Vernon ) Drummond's bar began construction on a new building to increase their business.. The local Baptist church started a campaign to block the bar from opening with petitions and prayers. Work progressed right up till the week before opening when lightning struck the bar and it burned to the ground.  The church folks were rather smug  in their outlook after that, until the bar owner sued the church on the grounds that the church was ultimately responsible for the demise of his building, either through direct or indirect actions or means.  The church vehemently denied all responsibility or any connection to the building's demise in its reply to the court.  As the case  made its way into court, the judge looked over the paperwork.. At the hearing he commented, 'I don't know how I'm going to decide this, but as it appears from the paperwork, we have a bar owner who believes in the power of prayer, and an entire church congregation that does not.'

Whether this story is true or just another "preacher's story," it makes for a great parable about prayer.
Unfortunately, I believe there are many Christians who say they  believe in the power of prayer but who don't see it's power evidenced in their lives.  Too often, we seek God in prayer for miracles and then are surprised when they happen.  Do we really believe in the power of prayer?

In the book of Acts, we find an authentic story about real people, just like us, who were surprised when the answer to their prayers came knocking at their front door.  The story is found in Acts 12.  Here's the setting, the followers of Christ are experiencing harassment from the Jewish king, Herod and the religious leaders who are threatened by those who have proclaimed the gospel of the risen Christ.  Peter and the other disciples have become targets of this persecution are being arrested, beaten and released.  Some like Stephen, have been killed. Peter, one of the leaders of the followers of Christ, has been arrested and placed in chain in Herod's prison. The followers of Christ are deeply concerned for his well being.  In Acts 12:5, we find that..."So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him."

At the very time that the church was praying, Peter was asleep, chained to the prison walls with soldiers guarding him.  An angel appears to Peter, releases him from his shackles, leads him out of the prison without his guards without be noticed. (It is important to note, that even Peter thought this may have been a dream. vs.9)  Once out of the prison, Peter made his way to the place where he knew he could find refuge, the house of Mary, which happened to be the place where many had gathered to pray for his deliverance.  Peter knocks on the door, and Rhoda, a servant girl, answers the door and recognizes that it is Peter.  In her joy, she runs to tell others without letting Peter inside.  She exclaims, "Peter is at the door!"

Now don't miss this...this group of believers who have been praying for Peter's deliverance respond, "You're out of your mind."  When little Rhoda kept insisting, they tried to convince her that it was Peter's angel.  While the church was trying to convince the servant girl that it couldn't be Peter.  Peter was still outside knocking at the door.  The answer to their prayers was knocking at the door. When they finally opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. (Read it yourself in Acts 12:14-16)

It makes me laugh, not only because it's funny, but isn't it true of us as well?  Aren't we surprised when God answers our prayers?  Could it be that the reason that we are surprised is because when we pray, we believe that God can answer our prayers, instead of believing that God will answer our prayers.

Jesus said, "Therefore, I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."  Mark 11:24

The key to recognizing when God answers prayer, is not believing that God can, but that He will.  His word assures us of that fact.  Faith isn't believing God can, it is believing God will do just what he said He would do.  Let's start praying believing that the answer will come knocking at your door.





 

Hunting for a Trophy...

It's hunting season in East Texas and deer hunters have been preparing for months in the hope of bringing home a trophy buck. It's amazing to what extremes, hunters will go through in pursuit of their prize. They will mark the hunting season on their calendars months in advance. They scout their leases with motion sensitive cameras. They set out deer feeders to lure their prey and locate the ideal spot for their stands. They've been to Bass Pro Shop or Cabella's to purchase the latest in camouflage, guns and ammo for the season, which are not cheap. They will travel hundreds of miles with trailer in tow loaded with surplies and their ATV. They will get up before the crack of dawn and sit in their stands for hours in freezing weather in the hope of just getting an opportunity for a shot at the prize. You've got to admire their zeal and dedication.

Isn't it a shame, that we don't go to the same extreme in our pursuit of God. Now, I include myself, in this assessment. It's not surprising that we will go to extremes in our jobs, our recreation, social and family life to be or have the best. We will spend time, money and push the limits of our endurance to pursue those goals. Often doing so at great sacrifice of other things. Yet, when it comes to our relationship with God, we give at best our leftovers.

Is the reason that the prize (eternal life; a relationship with Almighty God, the creator of the universe; the forgiveness of our sins) is insignificant compared to other prizes we pursue? Is the realization that God loved us so much that He gave His One and Only Son, to die for our sins and rose from the grave to provide everlasting life for us, something less than worthy of our very best offerings? Are the promises of His power, presence and guidance for daily living, just advice that is easily discounted, unless there is really a pressing need?

I find it somewhat ironic that the apostle Paul, who as zealous as anyone, wrote these words...

"But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus as my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him,... But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:7-14)

Too often we can become caught up in pursuing trophies to hang on our walls or put on a shelf and miss out on the greatest prize of all. The prize and privilege of knowing Christ and experiencing Him at work in and through our lives every day. That's the trophy worth pursuing at any cost.

Instant Replay

Last Sunday night, while watching a football game on TV, I saw a freakish play. It was a pass play to the tight end. The intended receiver reached back to catch the ball but didn't catch it. The ball fell towards the ground, apparently bouncing up into the arms of a defensive player, who then raced to end zone for a touchdown. The referee ruled the pass incomplete, believing that the ball hit the ground. But because there is "instant replay," the call was challenged and reviewed.

"After further review," the instant replay revealed that as the receiver reached back to catch the ball, it hit his hand. The ball, then dropped, bouncing up off his foot and into the arms of the defensive player. The officials ruled it as an interception. Thanks to "instant replay" there was an opportunity to take a closer look to see what really happened.

Did you know that "instant replay" is in the Bible? Check out 2 Kings 6:8-23. It was a time in the history of Israel, when the people of Israel were at war with the Arameans. The king of Aram was aware that the prophet Elisha was advising the king of Israel. His advice was thwarting the Arameans' war efforts (6:11-12). The king of Aram sent his army to capture the Israelites secret weapon, the prophet,Elisha.

In the night, the army of Aram surrounded the city where Elisha lived. The next morning, the servant of Elisha went outside to get the paper or fetch firewood. He saw the Aramean army with their horses and chariots encompassing the city. Fearfully, he reports the news to the prophet Elisha. Notice Elisha's response.

"Don't be afraid," the prophet answered, "Those who are with us are more than those who are with them." And Elisha prayed, "O Lord, open his eyes so he may see." Then the Lord opened the servant's eyes and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha." (2 Kings 6:16-17)

Instant Replay! Sometimes we can become overwhelmed by our circumstances. We get fearful and worry about what we are going to do. We become pessimistic, thinking only the worse case scenario. We often rush to judgment and jump to wrong conclusions. That's why it is wise to follow Elisha's advice. Take another look. This times with our eyes wide open from God's perspective. Elisha was in no danger. He wasn't outnumbered. He wasn't being held hostage by his circumstances, because with God on his side, he was assured of the victory to come.

It is easy to get "tunnel vision" when things don't look or feel right. It's human nature to imagine the worse rather than think the best. It's easy to get caught up in the downward spiral of hopelessness when we become fixated on the problems. But if we, "... fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2)," we gain a different perspective. We see that God, who is all powerful, all knowing and ever-present, is on our side. We can count on Him to get us through the crisis.

It's been said that "seeing is believing." Yet, even our earthly eyes can deceive us. Take another look before you react or respond to life's circumstances. Look with eyes of faith, you might come up with another conclusion. Believing is seeing.

"After further review...God is on your side."

Buckled Up!

Last week, Jackie and I went out on a dessert date which led to a late night visit to WalMart. While on the way to WalMart, the seat belt warning alarm went off. What was strange about this was we were both already buckled into our seat belts. With the strict "Click it or Ticket" laws in Texas, "buckling up" has become a matter of habit for both of us.

With warning bell ringing and dashboard light flashing, we checked our seat belts to be sure they were secure. Mine was secure alright. In fact, it wouldn't release at all.

I keep pushing the release button and nothing is happening. At stop signs, I'm putting the car in park, and with both hands working to set myself free. Oh, by the way, did you know that 2005 Ford Mustangs are equipped with the most annoying seat belt alarm, especially after you have heard it every minute for last fifteen minutes.

By now, I am not only frustrated but I'm getting a little claustrophobic. I start having paranoid thoughts. "I can't get out of the car." "What if the car dies on a railroad track and a train is coming?"

Fortunately, we arrived at WalMart, avoiding all railroad crossings, but I was still being held captive. Jackie suggests cutting the seat belt, but that would mean the expense of replacing the seat belt. Besides, I had taken the "emergency scissors" out of the car last weekend.

Jackie's giggling by now. It wasn't funny...because, by now the two cups of coffee I drank with my dessert, have finished their tour through my digestive system and are ready to check out.

What happened next I hope no one caught it on camera and placed it on YouTube. It must have been a sight to behold. A gray-haired grandfather-type posing as a contortionist. I wiggled, I twisted, I stretched and squirmed myself out from under the seat belt and shoulder strap until, "Free at last. Free at last. Thank God Almighty, I am free at last."

This weird but eventually humorous episode, got me to thinking about how things which are supposed to be good for us, can sometimes take us captive.

For example, there is nothing wrong with recreation, whether it is hunting, fishing, golf, shopping, gardening, traveling, watching TV, surfing the web or working out at the gym. Unless we allow it to consume our thinking, our actions and our conversation to the point, it becomes something that pulls us away from God.

For some the issue of our occupation can become more than providing for the needs of our family. Especially, when we use it as a means to justify our significance or the accumulation of stuff. In doing so we can find ourselves making excuses for neglecting the importance of building a spiritual foundation for our lives and homes.

There are many things that can hold us captive...fear, drugs, anger, worry, bitterness, greed, pornography, and pride which we acknowledge as sin. But anything that hinders our relationship with God is considered sin. Potentially, it's grip can keep you from experiencing a meaningful relationship with God, which He intends for us because He loves you.

"Do not let sin control the way you live;...Sin no longer is your master, for you are no longer subject to the law, which enslaves you in sin. Instead, you are free by God's grace." (Romans 6:12-14 New Living Bible)

Jesus said, "So if the Son(Jesus) sets you free, you will be free, indeed." (John 8:36)

Take the opportunity to examine your life. What's keeping you from experiencing the full and meaningful life that God wants you to have? Too busy? Preoccupied? What are you spending your time, money and energy on? Is it hindering you in your relationship with God and others? Are you controlling it or is it controlling you?

Maybe it's time to ask the Lord to help you escape its grip on your life.
We are never really free, until we are "captured by God's grace."

The Third Strand

My wife, Jackie and I were privileged to lead a couple's retreat for our church this past weekend. Besides addressing the typical marriage enrichment topics of communication, commitment, cooperation and romance, we closed the weekend with the importance of "the Third Strand," in the a marriage relationship.

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work. If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who fall and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

God speaks through King Solomon about relationships by offering some simple, yet profound wisdom. This wisdom is important, especially when it comes to the relationship beteen a husband and wife.

Two is better than one when it comes to productivity. The old adage, "two heads are better than one" fits very well here. When a couple works together, their prospects of success are better. When making decisions, when handling finances, when raising children...the importance of working as partners is both efficient and effective.

Two is good, because there is support. We all stumble and fall. Yet,when you are partnered together as a team, you have someone who can help you get back up. As a couple, we complement each others strengths and weaknesses. As a couple, when one is sick, hurt or emotionally down, their partner can help share the load. It is encouraging to know that you are not alone in your struggle.

It can be cold, cruel world out there when you are alone. God speaks to the marriage relationship in this passage, by illustrating that marriage is a place of warmth that comes from love and intimacy. In our first home as a couple, Jackie and I lived in a small apartment of an old house. Our bedroom was a walled-in back porch with no insulation. Just let it be said, if we had be not been newlyweds, we might not have survived the winter. The intimacy that comes from love provides warmth and security to the marriage relationship.

The fourth bit of wisdom reveals that two is good for mutual protection. In a marriage, a couple should always have one another's back. We should always watch out for one another: protecting their reputation; watching over their physical and emotional well being; as well as providing for their needs.

Yet, in this advice for relationships where the emphasis has been on the power of two, God throws in "a cord of three strands," in His summation. What is the significance of this "third strand?"

In today's world, where half of all marriages end in divorce or separation it is evident that the power of two is not enough. Sadly, the marriage statistics among people who call themselves Christians are not much better than that of the secular world. So God's wisdom about relationships is very relevant.

The Third Strand represents God. As the Lord is allowed to weave His presence, power and wisdom throughout the relationship of a husband and wife, there is strength. Strength to withstand all that seeks to pull marriages apart. The couple that invites the Lord to be the "third cord" in their marriage stands a lot better chance of surviving the challenges of today's world.

Marriage Takes Three
"I once thought marriage took just to to make a go,
But now I am convinced it takes the Lord also.
And not one marriage fails where Christ is asked to enter,
As lovers come together with Jesus at the center.
But marriage seldom thrives, and homes are incomplete,
Til He is welcome there to help avoid defeat.
In homes where Christ is first it's obvious to see,
Those unions really work for marriage still takes three."

the Dragonfly and the Hawk

Several years ago, I was experiencing what some would describe as "burn-out." I was at a point in my ministry where I felt that I was spinning my wheels. I was expending a lot of energy, emotion and time in doing pastor-stuff, but wasn't experiencing fulfillment nor seeing tangible results. So I took a couple of days to getaway at a nearby church camp to spend some time alone with God. I needed to re-charge my ministry batteries.

One afternoon, I was sitting by a small pond on the campgrounds enjoying the warmth of the sunshine and the beauty of nature on a breezy spring day. My attention was captured by a dragonfly as it buzzed from one blade of tall grass to another at a frenetic pace. This small little insect was beating its wings a thousand times a minute as it jetted here and there in the pursuit of what dragonflies do. I told God, "That's me, Lord."

It's not difficult when you are involved in ministry as a pastor or layperson to find yourself pulled in a multitude of directions, with weight of the world on your shoulders, and never enough time to finish everything that needs to be done. It's easy to be busy and go to bed at night feeling that you have accomplished nothing. There will come those times when the The Enemy will whisper in your ear, "What good are you doing?" Discouragement and doubt of your calling begin make you think you are a failure. We become like that poor dragonfly working so hard and enjoying it less.

While face to face with my "dragonfly" image, I was startled by a shadow that passed over me. I looked up and saw a hawk with its wings outstretched soaring in the sky above the pond. I watched this hawk for at least half hour, as he circled the campground, rising and diving among the clouds on that breezy day. Do you know what I noticed...he never flapped his wings. Not once. He just allowed the wind currents to lift and propel him effortlessly on what had to be a great day to be a hawk.It was then that my eyes welled with tears and I said to God, "Lord, I want to be like that hawk."

That's when God spoke familiar but forgotten words to my heart.

"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint." (Isaiah 40:28-31)

God never intended for our lives and ministry to be lived out in our own strength. He desires that we trust in Him to provide the purpose, plan and the power to live for Him. We become like the dragonfly when we do things ourselves. We soar like eagles when allow Him to be wind beneath our wings.

Car-Jacked at Camp

"And My God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)

He just doesn't always tell you how He is going to do it.


For example, this past week, my wife, Jackie and I were at Pineywoods Camp in Woodlake, TX for a week of Power Plus Youth Camp. I was serving as a shepherd (Bible teacher) for 12th graders and Jackie was serving as camp nurse. In our nine years at Power Plus Camp, we have developed a great relationship with the camp manager, Eric Small and his staff, as well as with the leader of Power Plus Ministries, Steve Boyd.

I had replaced a rear tire a year ago, and I had just replaced my front tires on my Mustang about two months ago. I thought my right rear tire was OK but last week realized that it, too, was in desperate need of replacement. Unfortunately, we didn't have the expendable monies to buy a new tire. We were going to drive Jackie's car instead of mine to camp, but our daughter needed to borrow one of our cars. So I decided we could make the trip in my Mustang, so that our daughter could have Jackie's car.

I had preached at a church on the Sunday before leaving for camp, and was to receive an honorarium from them. I planned to use it to replace the tire before we left for camp on Monday morning, but they were going to mail me the check. So, we packed the car and headed to Pineywoods on a wing and a prayer. I just knew I would be changing a tire sometime on this trip. Yet, we arrived at camp, safe and sound. We parked the car along in front of the medical station for the week. We didn't tell anyone about the tire situation, so what happened next came as a real surprise.

On Thursday morning as I was returning to our rooom from the morning worship, I saw my Mustang on jacks. Someone had taken the rear right tire. I couldn't believe it. It couldn't have been thieves, because they took worse tire of the lot. I had an idea who the "tire angels" were that jacked with my car, but it was a shock to see my car on jacks.

A couple hours later, Jackie caught on camera, the "tire angels" as they returned to the scene of the crime. It was Eric Small, the camp manager, and members of his staff, Steve, Will, Banjo and Joe who replaced the tire on my car. When I confronted them, they simply said, "It was just our way of letting you know we love you and we wanted to do something for you and Jackie to bless you." They would not let me pay them back, it was their gift to me and Jackie.

What a blessing that was to Jackie and me. It reminded us afresh and anew that God will go to extremes to show you and me that He will take care of you if we would just trust Him.

Thanks again, Eric, Will, Steve, Banjo and Joe for "Living to Serve and Serving to Live."

"Christians are like Manure..."

"Christians are like manure: spread them out and they help everything grow better, but keep them in one big pile and they stink horribly." (Crazy Love by Francis Chan)

That's a great description, isn't it. God's intention for us as believers and churches are to be "the light of the world (Matt. 5:14);" "the salt of the earth, Matt.5:13);" "ambassadors for Christ (2 Cor. 5:20);" and "His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8)." We are to be the fertilizer that brings the presence and transforming power of God's love into our families, communities and the world in which we live.

When we as believers become self-centered in our approach to spiritual growth, self-indulgent with our service and preoccupied with personal agendas, we miss God's intent for his people. We are on the planet, so that God can reveal Himself to the world, in and through us. We are to be world changers. We are to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ throughout the world.

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness and into His wonderful light." (1 Peter 2:9)

In my nearly forty years of ministry, I have observed that in churches where people are reaching out through ministries, and baptisms are occurring on a regular basis, and the church as a whole is committed to reaching the world through mission endeavors, financially and through personal participation, there are very few problems in the church. But churches who choose to focus their programs and ministries on meeting the needs of the church members over the needs of the lost, begin to stink with the stagnation that comes from selfishness, dissension, faithlessness and lack of love.

So, what kind of manure are you? The kind that just sits in a pile and stinks or the kind that is spread around and makes things grow? If I am going to be compared to manure, I sure don't want to be the kind that stinks. What about you?

The Ten Most Influential Books to My Chrisitan Life

I recently finished reading, Francis Chan's book, "Crazy Love." It is one of those books that rocks you to your core. Causes you to examine the authenticity of your relationship to God and how that relationship shapes your life. It is now on the list of books that I recommend every Christian to read.

That caused me to think if I made a list of the ten most influential books to my Christian life, which books would make the list. The first eight were pretty easy to list but final two were more difficult to come up with considering the many other possibilities.

I didn't include the Bible because it more than an inspirational book. It is the Word of God. Paul wrote to Timothy, "All Scripture is God breathed and is useful teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16)


The Ten Most Influential Books in My Life.

"The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren. This is the simplest and most practical book I have found to help believers discover what it means to be a Christian and how they are to live.

"Experiencing God" by Henry Blackaby. This classic book by one of the most godly men I have ever had the privilege to know, helped me to discover that knowing the will of God is about knowing God first. It's Knowing God, Trusting God, Obeying God and Experienceing God.

"Christian Counter Culture" by John R.W. Stott. The best commentary on the the Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5-7 where Jesus tells his followers what the lifestyle of a Christian really looks like.

"Crazy Love" by Francis Chan. Though this book is only been out a year, it will be a classic as it challenges Christians who are living in the 21st century to examine what it means to be loved by a Sovereign, All Powerful, and Holy God. And how being a relationship with Him impacts the we live out our lives during our short time on earth.

"Chasing Daylight" by Erwin McManus. Another recent book by an insightful "out of the box" thinker and pastor. Erwin examines in depth the passage in 1 Samuel 14:1-15, where Jonathan and his armor bearer are led by God to act in faith and winning a battle against all odds. It challenges our fears and complacency when it comes to serving God.

"Concentric Circles of Concern" by Oscar Thompson. Best book on personal evangelism I have ever read. I had the privilege to be taught this book, in a class at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary by Dr. Thompson, himself. It teaches us that we have circles of influence that exist in the relationships that we have. It is our personal mission field. Recently re-released.

"Disciples Are Made, Not Born" by Dawson Trotman. This classic book on discipleship written by the founder of the Navigators is a must read. It helps you discover the way to disciple others in their walk with Christ.

"The Power of Positive Praying" by John Bisagno. This book is probably out of print, but it helped me more about praying in faith and learning to trust God's voice in prayer than any other book on prayer I ever read.

"The Key to Triumphant Living" by Jack Taylor. This book may also be out of print, but it was the first book that I ever read that helped to understand what it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit and to allow the Holy Spirit to empower me for ministry.

"Spiritual Leadership" by Henry Blakaby. This book provides the best treatment of what it means to be a spiritual leader, whether as a pastor, deacon, elder or the head of the household. It is address fallacies that accompany contemporary leadership models, provides the model for Biblical leadership.

We live in a day when many people depend upon TV and the internet for all their information and entertainment. For me, God has used reading and godly writers to help me grow in my faith.

Nothing takes the place of reading the Bible, but there are many inspirational books out there to read, that will help you become the person God wants you to be.

"Blessed is the man that finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yeilds better returns than gold." (Proverbs 3:13-14)

"How Do I Get There From Here?"

Recently, I was in Ft. Worth, TX officiating a wedding for a friend. Though Jackie and I lived there while attending seminary, I struggled finding my way around. Much had changed in the thirty-plus years since we called it home. Once familiar landmarks were no longer existed, new roads had been built, and the city had expanded in size and traffic. A place that I once commuted about with ease, now required map. In fact, during that weekend, I got lost three times and on one occasion, I had to follow my friend's vehicle just to assure my arrival at the my desired destination. I am seriously considering the purchase of GPS device. There were times that I needed to know things like: "Where Am I?" and "How do I get there from here?."

Have you ever been there, in the search of God's will for your life? For many believers I have known, the pursuit of God's will has been a struggle.

Some have wished that they had one of those maps like those at the mall, that says "You are here," and as you look a the mall diagram of the all stores, you can choose your own path to get to your desired destination.

Others feel the search for God's will is like a game of connect the dots. If I do this, then this will happen. If I do this next, then God will reveal the clue to the next step in the journey. Eventually, if you are successful in connecting all the dots, then you will win the prize of knowing God's will for your life.

I really don't think God desires to play "Hide and Seek" with us nor does He want us to become frustrated in our pursuit of His will for our lives. In fact, He desires that we experience life in the center of His will. That's why He provides us with these words found in Jeremiah 29:11-13.

"I know the plans that I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." (Jeremiah 29:11-13)

I consider this "God's Positioning System." If you want to know where you are and where you are going as a child of God, this passage helps you along the journey.

God Has a Plan for Your Life...and it's Good! Not always easy, not without challenges but always good for us. Joseph in the Old Testament had many years of difficulty, but eventually he had a life that only God could have dreamed for him. God's will for our lives is life at its best. Fulfilling. Purposeful. Productive.

Don't Seek the Destination, Seek the Driver. The most common mistake we make in the pursuit of God's will is seeking God's will, instead of seeking God. It is human nature to want the map with the marked destination. That way we can make our plans on how we want to get there. We will look for shortcuts to get us there quicker, or be tempted to take side trips along the way. We are,also, more likely to get stressed out trying to keep up with the traffic while searching for the signs to stay on course.
It is God's desire for us to leave the driving to Him. He knows the destination and the best way to get there. He is there with us to handle any hardships. Most important of all, we can enjoy our fellowship with Him and the journey, as well.

Climb into the Back Seat. In Henry Blackaby's book, Experiencing God, I have learned that a relationship with God is developed by first, getting to know Him... which leads to our believing Him... which leads us to trusting Him... which leads us to obeying Him... which in turn leads to our experiencing Him as we pursue His will in our lives. Start by getting to know God through time in His Word and in prayer. As your relationship with Him develops, you will be more willing to simply climb in the backseat and say "OK, Lord, I'm ready to go." Just leave the driving to Him.

A Promise for the Hard Times

When I was eight years old, we moved from the place of my birth, Houston, to Wichita Falls, TX, to live. We left the house that I called home, the school I attended and all my friends. I remember we didn't leave Houston in Dad's new '57 Chevy BelAir, but in an older car. I remember being sad about leaving, but I remember my dad and mom being sad for a long time before and after that day. At eight years of age, you don't understand things like lay-offs, a poor economy, repossessions, and foreclosures. Fortunately, my uncle Don was willing to hire my dad in his business, so we moved to Wichita Falls.

That was a difficult time for our family. Dad and mom were just trying to make a living and provide for my brother and me. After the move, my brother and I saw this as simply the beginning of a new adventure. We made new friends, went to new schools, lived down the road from Mr. Harris who had horses, and in the winter it snowed there. For my parents, it was all just surviving.

Sometimes life on this planet can be very hard. The loss of a job; the loss of a loved one; the failure of a marriage; the failure of a dream; the betrayal of a friend; the betrayal of an aging body; the fear of the unknown; the fear of the known...all can be devastating. We normally don't look at these, as new adventures...we often go into survival mode. Sometimes we never get over it.

How do we deal with these times in life? How do we cope when everything is coming apart at the seams? For the person who trusts is the Lord, there is a wonderful promise located in the book of Lamentations in the Bible.

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They ae new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him;" Lamentations 3:22-25

The prophet Jeremiah, who penned these words, was an eyewitness to the fall of the city of Jerusalem, many, many years ago at the hand of a hostile pagan nation. He knew people whose children were taken into captivity as slaves. He saw the Temple of God desecrated and destroyed and the gates of the city burned. He was up close and personal with God's judgment on His own people for their continued sin. And though he, personally, had been faithful to God, he was not spared the agony of experiencing life at it's worse.

Yet in the midnight of those dark days, God promises to deliver fresh every single morning, His compassion on those who trust in Him. He always delivers...because great is His faithfulness.

I know these words to be true by my own experiences.
In the those times when I fear the worse; He is faithful to reveal His best.
When I feel betrayed; He is faithful to be at my side.
When I grieve the loss of something I love, He is faithful to comfort me with His great love.
When I am filled with anger; He reminds me of the healing of forgiveness.
When I am at the end of my rope; His hand lifts me up.
When I am uncertain of the future; He tells me He knows it and it's good.
When the messes of my life are of my own making; He lovingly cleanses me of my sin and sets me on the right path.

He has been faithful in this promise to me and He will be found faithful to you and all who trust in Him.

Why? Because He loves us and He is faithful to keep His promises to His children. With "childlike" faith, we can look beyond the darkness to a brand new day with the assurance of God's love and faithfulness. He delivers.... fresh daily!

"Moonlighting"

It was a dream come true for the 25 year old ballplayer from North Carolina, Archibald Wright "Moonlight" Graham. He was called up after three years in the minor leagues to join the major league New York Giants on May 23, 1905. He sat on the bench in the major leagues for over a month before he was inserted into a game on June 29 against the Brooklyn Superbas. In the bottom of the eighth inning, Graham was sent in to play right field, replacing George Brown. In the top of the ninth, Graham was on deck when his teammate Claude Elliott flied out resulting in the third and final out. Graham played the bottom of the ninth in right field but never came to bat.

That turned out to be "Moonlight" Graham's only appearance in the major leagues. His is not an isolated story, of the more than 16,000 players in major league history, they're also are 900-plus guys in the Elias Sports Bureau Registry who got only into only one game.

"Moonlight" Graham stands out because W.P. Kinsella, chose him from the "The Baseball Encyclopedia" to be a character in his novel, "Shoeless Joe," and the subsequent film, "Field of Dreams." While reading "The Baseball Encyclopedia," he had received as a gift, he noted the colorful nickname and the very abbreviated career. This writer of fiction researched Graham's life following his one game major league career. Graham played a few more years of minor league baseball while he pursued his medical degree. He obtained his license to practice medicine and went on to serve the people of Chisolm, Minnesota from 1915-1959 as a doctor.

Moonlight Graham's story could have been different. He could have stepped up to the plate and hit the game winning homerun, which could have launched a Hall of Fame career. If, that had happened thousands of people in Chisolm, Minnesota would never known the healing of touch of their beloved "Doc" Graham.

"In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps." (Proverbs 16:9)

Sometimes our lives don't turn out as we planned. Yet, when you trust your life into God's hands, it will turn out better than you ever dreamed.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all you ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Sources: Wikipedia, Moonlight Graham
Pittsburg Post-Gazette. June 25, 2005 by Ben Walker, The Associated Press

What Are These Stones?

Our lives are most often chronicled by birthdays, holidays and anniversaries. They are times that we celebrate and reflect upon as special moments. We call them milestones. But these are not the only milestones that we anticipate or savor in our life’s journey.

As a child, we anticipate the first day of school; loosing our first tooth; learning to ride a bike, and remember with fondness our first boyfriend/girlfriend. As we get older, we look forward to getting our driver’s license, the prom, and high school graduation and have memories of our friends, teachers and big football games in the days of our youth.

The milestones of adulthood include getting that first job; getting married; our children’s births; buying our first house; the big promotion; our children getting married and then grandchildren; death of parents; and retirement. In the midst of life are a host of events and experiences to remember. These milestones mark life.

There are also, spiritual markers for those who are believers in Christ Jesus. In the Old Testament, we read of the people having experiences with God and then building an altar or a monument of stones as a reminder. Abraham, Noah, Jacob, Moses, and the Israelites after they crossed into the promised land left spiritual markers so that they and others would never forget that God was in this place.

Our spiritual markers include experiences such as our receiving Christ as Savior and our baptism; memorized Scriptures; insights gained from God’s word; and times in prayer. Yet, there are more experiences such as taking that step of faith and finding God faithful. Experiencing that unbearably painful experience where you discovered the warmth of God’s comfort. Being overwhelmed with guilt and shame of a sin, only to discover that God really does forgive and sets you free. Being overwhelmed by love that you don’t deserve. Enjoying His presence as you worship. Experiencing the joy of leading someone to Christ. In our hearts God has placed these spiritual markers as reminders of our experience with Him.

We are to remember how God worked in our lives at that moment and use them as encouragement to remain faithful to God throughout our life’s journey.

“What do these stones mean? …He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and so that you might always fear the Lord your God.” (Joshua 4:24)

Renovation Reality

If you are a fan of HGTV (Home and Garden Television), then you may be familiar with a program called "Renovation Realities." The premise of the program is to allow the viewer to watch as real "do-it-yourself" homeowners take on major home renovation projects. Typically, in their desire to save money, it cost them more. In their hopes to finish on schedule, they miss their deadline. As viewers, we see the drama of frustration when things don't go as expected; homeowners at each others throats, an occasional injury or collateral damage and a reality check. Sometimes it is better to let the "experts" handle the job.

"Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. In vain they rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat - for he grants sleep to those he loves." Psalm 127:1-2

When God inspired Solomon to pen these words, He was not talking about pouring a slab or remodeling a kitchen. He was sharing an insight that is necessary for building a life and a home. God is the chief architect who designed you and me. He, also desires to be the construction manager for your life and home. When we trust our lives and families to Him, He has the power to make all the renovations necessary throughout our lives.

"Do-it-yourself-ers" often don't have the expertise nor the tools to do the job. "Do-it-yourself-ers" sometimes can do more damage than good. "Do-it-yourself-ers" sometimes do just enough to get by and never finish the job completely. That's why the scripture says, that we labor in vain when don't let the Lord be involved. He has the expertise and the resources to finish the job, if we will turn the job over to Him.

As a "do-it-yourself" person myself, I have discovered when it comes to things like home renovation projects, auto maintenance, and computer technology, I need help. The same is also true with my life in general. There are times when we all struggle with relationships, self image, personal fulfillment, anxiety, and purpose in life.

Jesus said, "I have come that you may have life and that you may have it abundantly." (John 10:10) Why not trust in the one who designed you from the beginning to handle any make-overs that you need. He is the "expert."

The Draft

Remember those days in the neighborhood, when the guys got together to play touch football. Captains were selected and they began to choose up teams. Were you ever anxious, if you were one of the last ones picked? Well, just imagine how it must have been for many college football players who waited to receive the call that they had been picked in the 2009 NFL Draft. There were 256 who received calls, the rest didn't.

One of those who didn't get a call was Graham Harrell, the 2008 recipient of the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Trophy for being the best quarterback in college football. Why wasn't he selected as one of the 256 players in the 2009 NFL Draft? Wasn't he good enough?

Harrell's outstanding career at Texas Tech University included setting NCAA records in most touchdown passes in a career, most 300 yard (32) and 400 yard (20) passing games; and surpassing 5,000 yards passing in two consecutive seasons. This year, he finished fourth in the votes for the Heisman Trophy, which is awarded to the best college football player each year. Despite all his accomplishments, he was not chosen. To his credit, his rejection was not because of moral, legal or attitude issues, he just didn't fit the profile for being an NFL quarterback.

Rejection is a very humbling experience. Not just for aspiring football players; for all of us. You apply for a job, but don't get it. You ask someone out on a date, and they turn you down. After ten years of marriage, your spouse says they want a divorce. Your parents split up, and you feel left behind. You do your very best, yet someone else beats you out. You try your very best, but your performance is never good enough. Maybe you have felt the sting of rejection.

Well, so did Christ. He came to be the Savior to the world, yet he was rejected by those he came to save. He didn't fit into their profile of a Savior. He wasn't of royal descent, nor a mighty warrior, he came into the world as a carpenter's son and teacher. Many didn't realize that He was God's Son wrapped in human flesh. Most didn't accept that He was the Messiah foretold in the Old Testament. Some did believe and accept Him.

"He came to that which was His own, but His own did not receive Him. Yet to all that received Him, to those who believed in His name , He gave the right to become the children of God." John 1:11-12

He was rejected and nailed to a cross, so that you might be accepted. Because sin, you were alienated from God. But because of Jesus, you can be a child of God. Jesus died a sacrificial death, so that you could have eternal life. Haven't you realized it? God loved you so much that He made YOU: His number one pick.

Oops! Spellcheck, please.

Last Friday, April 17, 2009 in Washington D.C., the home team dressed in the locker room, yet the players didn't notice. As they were introduced on the field, no one noticed it. When the team was in the dugout, no one caught the mistake. Not until the sports announcers on the TV broadcast and the people in the stands saw it on the giant TV screen, did the mistake become known. Two of their star players, Adam Dunn and Ryan Zimmerman had on jerseys that had the team name misspelled. It read, "NATINALS," instead of "NATIONALS." The "O" was missing.

Someone who was sewing the name on the jersey, in their rush to get the job done,left the "O" off. Maybe they were out of "O's." Regardless, they just messed up. But they were not the only one. Whoever inspected the job missed it, too. It wasn't caught by the person that packed it in the delivery box. The equipment manager that hung it in the locker of the players, didn't catch the mistake either. It went unnoticed until it was revealed on the Big Screen in high definition for all the world to see.

No one would have ever known had the miscue been dealt with earlier. Instead, the mistake became an embarrassment to the team, the organization, the owner and the fans. Though the mistake was corrected during the game, the mockery continued as the story spread throughout the sports media network.

Mistakes, miscues, goof-ups and sin happens. Too all of us. But usually most of ours don't end up on a "Jumbo-tron." Imagine if the last impure thought you had, made its way to YouTube. Consider that "juicy bit of gossip" you shared with a friend was broadcast on the evening news quoting you as the source. What if you went to a movie theater, and your past week's sins were the preview to the movie. Talk about embarrassing.

I think many of us, even as Christians, think that our sins done in secret, stay a secret. In reality, they are not secret at all. Every thought, word, attitude and action, including our sinful ones are played out before the eyes of our all-knowing, holy Heavenly Father.
"O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord." (Psalm 139:1-4)

It is only by His grace and mercy that doesn't make our sin known to others. Yet be assured that though God is patient, He will not be mocked. As the Israelites discovered "your sins will find you out." (Exodus 32:23) If we persist in our rebellion against God and continue in our sin. He will allow our sin and its impact on our lives to come out for others to see.

Even as followers of Christ, we will stumble and fall into sin. But God desires that as His Holy Spirit convicts and convinces us of our sinfulness, that we get right with Him. The psalmist, David prayed, "Search me, O God and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting." (Psalm 139:23-24)

When we do sin, if we will confess and repent of our sin right then, He forgives us and it goes no further. "As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us." (Psalm 103:12)

Lessons Learned from T-Ball

Imagine this poignant moment in sports. The baseball team dressed in their brand new uniforms are seated in the dugout, just before their first game. All eyes are on me, the coach. I'm reminding them of the importance of being focused on the doing the things we have practiced. When a hand goes up and one of the players asks, "Coach Ellis, when do we get refreshments?"

That's one of the joys of coaching a T-Ball team. T-Ball is an introductory level of baseball for five and six year old children. It' all about instruction and having fun. Teaching the kids the basics of baseball is the goal, but I've learned a few things, myself, being the coach of the "Gladewater A's." Things that are important in life and our faith.

1. Focus on the Basics...We don't talk baseball strategy or philosophy in T-Ball, we deal with the basics of baseball: throwing, catching, hitting and running. Five and six year olds can't turn double plays or hit to the opposite field. They have to learn "how to do" the basics before they can attempt advanced baseball stuff. For example, you must keep your eyes open, if you hope to catch the ball. Simple, but important. The same is true in your Christian life. You can't develop in our faith, if we don't read our Bible, attend worship, pray, serve others or share our faith. Those are basics that provide the foundation of our faith throughout our lives.

2. Don't Assume Others Understand what you are Talking About... In our first practice, I was letting the kids hit off the "Tee," and run the bases. Some of my players didn't know where to go when I told them, "Run to First Base." Even basic baseball terminology like "dugout," "shortstop", and "right field,is like a foreign language to them. As coaches, we have to be patient, specific and often show them what we want them to do. The same is true when we share Christ with others. Words like "saved," "Christian," and "redeemed" are familiar words to mature Christians, but for many who have no church background, they are roadblocks to understanding the gospel. So we must learn to be patient, communicate on their level and be more demonstrative in our witness for Christ. With T-Ballers, its "Show and Tell," you show them how and then explain it. Isn't that what sharing Christ with others is all about?

3. Live in the Moment... Five and six year olds don't have very long attention spans. They live in the moment. They don't think about championships at the end of the season. They think about sno-cones at the end of the game. They are not worried about being down by 7 runs, they just want to know when they bat next. Sometimes, your left fielder is watching an airplane fly overhead, as the ball rolls by his feet. Sometimes they forget to run, because they are waving at Mom and Dad. It isn't a priority to one of them that he is on third base and about to score a run, when he has to go to the bathroom, right NOW. T-Ballers live in the moment. In life, sometimes we forget to live in the moment. We so often get so caught up in "winning the game" that loose sight of just enjoying the experience. Even, as Christians we become so preoccupied with pursuing even our spiritual goals, that we miss enjoying what God is doing around us and in the lives of others.

My team of five and six year olds are learning a little about baseball, but their "old coach" is learning a few things from them. The next time, my center fielder is picking flowers off the clover in the outfield instead of chasing after the ball, I'll try not to get frustrated. Because he is picking those flowers to give to his mom. And when you think about it, which is REALLY more important?

35 Years...Jackie and Ellis

On March 16, 1974, an eighteen-year-old bride and a twenty-two year old groom professed their love for one another at the Central Park Baptist Church in Bossier City, Louisiana. The groom was a college senior who read water meters for the City of Marshall. She was a recent high school graduate who had just quit her job at McDonald's. Surrounded by family and friends, they said, “I do,” and kissed.

Thus began their journey together as husband and wife.

Today…after 35 years of raising three children who are now adults; planning and officiating three weddings; celebrating the births of our five grandchildren; ministry in eight different churches; living in ten different houses; surviving the typical family crises such as, arguments over money, the terrible two’s and the rebellious teen’s, car problems, loss of jobs, major surgeries, and the death of parents…we have not survived, but we have thrived as husband and wife.

I never thought I could have loved her more than I did on that day in March of 1974. But I do love her more…as my closest friend…as my partner in ministry…as the one and only true love of my life.

We have discovered that the marriage relationship is like a triangle with me, Jackie and God at the points. The closer our personal relationship moves toward God, the closer and stronger our relationship with each other becomes.

“So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.” (Matt. 19:6)

It is my prayer that every marriage could have what we have. I know after 35 years of experience that it is only possible with the Lord in your life and marriage.

Got Water?

No Water. Last Tuesday evening, I went to wash my hands, and there was very little water pressure. I checked other faucets and the water pressure was little or not at all. I wondered did we pay the water bill? Is problem at just my house? Soon a neighbor called, "Do you have any water pressure?" After further investigation, I discovered that a major water line in the city's water system broke and the water towers were at low levels. For the next 24 hours, our community of nearly 6,000 had little or no water. It's amazing how dependent we are on hot and cold running water.

No water...to wash hands, dishes or clothes. No water...to fix coffee or ice tea. No water... for showers or baths. No water...to cook spaghetti or fill the dog's water bowl. No water...to flush toilets, brush your teeth or to take your medicine.

No water...caused local restaurants to close. No water...caused our schools to close. No water...forced our church to cancel all Wednesday activities. No water...caused our city officials, police and fire departments several anxious hours fearing any emergency that would need water. No water...truly interrupted our lives.

To make do, people in town purchased bottled water to drink. They went to friends and family members who had water to bathe. Pets were drinking distilled water from their bowls. Even when the water came flowing again, we had to boil it to be safe. I know that there are many places in the world where hot and cold clean running water does not exist. Life in those places is challenging, to say the least.

I am reminded of a woman who was drawing water from an ancient well, when Jesus came by and requested a drink of water. The woman didn't know that He already had "living water" to offer her. There are people all around us who have no water. They have drinking and bathing water, but not the "living water" that Jesus offers. The water that is ever refreshing and everlasting. The water that washes away our sins and overflows like a fountain into every aspect of our lives and on others as well. It springs from the heart of God through Jesus Christ into and through us.

Got Water? Living Water. Share It!

No Asterisk*

In 1964, Roger Maris of the New York Yankees broke Babe Ruth's 34-year-old single season home run record. Ruth had amassed 60 home runs in a season with only 154 games, compared to Maris' 61 over 162 games. The then, Baseball commissioner Ford Frick announced that Maris' accomplishment would be recorded in the record books with an explanation (often referred to as "an asterisk" in the retelling.) Though no official record book existed at the time, the stigma of 61* home runs remained with Roger Maris for years.

Since then, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa and Barry Bonds have all surpassed Maris' home run record for a single season, but with the shadow of the "steroid era" there is conversation that their records as well as others should be marked by an asterisk.* Some have said they don't deserve to be in the Baseball Hall of Fame. The recent admission of performance enhancement drug use by Alex Rodriquez, considered by many as the best player in baseball today could mean that his career could forever be marked by an asterisk.*

Imagine everything that you ever did being shadowed by an *. It doesn't matter what you accomplished nor its significance in historical perspective. It is all subject to skepticism due to the asterisk.* That's Baseball, but what about our relationship with God. Imagine if because our sin, God placed an asterisk* by our name because of a sin that we committed. We could have given to help the poor,:or never missed church a day in our life; or we could have preached to the masses about Christ, but because we had sinned there is an asterisk by our name. A reminder to all that regardless of what this person has accomplished, he is still a sinner.

God is very clear about the subject of asterisks. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us of all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9 In Isaiah 23:25, God says "I, even I am He who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more."

Be glad as a follower of Christ, that when you trust him as Savior and Lord that he blots out all of our sin and remembers them against us no more. It is forgiven and forgotten. All of us have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Only by his grace and forgiveness, we are free of the stigma of an asterisk.*

More than a Football Game...

With Super Bowl XLIII, being played this weekend, millions of people will be watching the Cardinals vs. Steelers on their big screen HD televisions. It is the big game! But a few people have noticed that a possibly bigger game was played on November 7th in a high school stadium in the Dallas-Ft. Worth Metroplex. It pitted two private high schools against each other; Faith Christian Academy versus Gainesville State. One school was Christian high school. The other was a juvenile detention facility and high school that included football in its rejuvenation program.

Several weeks prior to the game, Kris Hogan, the football coach at Faith Christian challenged this team and the student body to do something unique for a football game. He challenged the student body and the people who attend their games as fans to put their faith into action. He wanted them to fill the visitor's side with fans to root for the Gainesville State team when they came to play against his team. Gainesville State had very few fans attend their games. There was no band, no cheerleaders, only a few fans and security guards to support the team.

On game day, the visitor's side was filled with fans with signs and noisemakers. There were cheerleaders on the sidelines and every time a Gainesville player made a good play, the fans cheered and called out their name. Though Faith Christian won the game, the real winners were the players on Gainesville State team. They were deeply moved by such a selfless act of compassion by the opposing school. It was their Super Bowl.

Rick Reilly of Sports Illustrated caught wind of the story and wrote a column. Roger Goodell, the commissioner of the NFL read the story and was so moved, that he invited Hogan and his wife, to be his guests at the Super Bowl.

"At the beginning," Coach Hogan said, "I was really surprised because I feel like it shouldn't be that big of a deal that Christians take action and do things like this."

It shouldn't be a big deal, but when Christians seriously choose to act self-lessly and serve others, it shouldn't surprise us that the world takes notice. Didn't Jesus say, "Let your light so shine before men, that when they see your good works, they will glorify our Father which is in heaven."

Well done, Faith Christian Academy and Coach Kris Hogan... it is more than a game!

Our "Children in the Faith"

During the Christmas holidays, I discovered "Facebook." I know some of you are thinking "Where have you been?" Unfortunately, I have been slow to embrace the internet world of the computer generation. "Facebook" has been a blessing on several levels. It's allowed me to re-connect with friends from high school and college days. I've caught up with former staff members and their families. But the greatest joy of my newest discovery is the opportunity to reconnect with some of my "children in the faith."

The apostle Paul referred to Timothy as his son in the faith. (1 Timothy 1:2) Though he was not a biological child of his, Paul was like a father to Timothy, as he served as his mentor in the faith.

In my 30 years of pastoral ministry and the 10 years of youth ministry prior to that I have been privileged to lead many to faith in Christ and have been privileged to help them grow in their relationship with God. They have been my "children in the faith."Over the years, as they have moved on to other places or when God moved me to another assignment, we would become disconnected. I would often wonder where some of my "children in the faith" were and how they were doing. You can't imagine the joy when I got the email saying "Alison and John _______ have requested to be your friend on "Facebook." It had be almost 15 years since we have seen or heard from them.

Alison and John were a young newly married couple from the Northeast. John was in the Air Force and was stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier City, LA where I pastored. I had the privilege to be their pastor during their short stay in Bossier City. They were such a blessing to me and my wife, they weren't much older than our children, so we saw them as our kids. We spent some wonderful times together. I baptized them and watched them grow. Then they were gone. The Air Force gave John another assignment and we lost touch. Until Facebook...."Yes, it's really me!" was Alison entry on the email. She found us...and we have found her and John. They are happily married, with 3 children of their own. Alison is a professional photographer and John has a great job as well. They live in New Hampshire. But more importantly, they are still faithful followers of Christ continuing what began many years ago. God is now using them to touch lives where they live and work. Nothing brings greater joy to my heart.

As I am in the autumn of my life and ministry, it is great to see that God occasionally allows us to see the fruit of our labors. Alison and John are "my children in the faith," and they are continuing to pass the faith in Christ along to their children and to others that I will never meet. It is just a reminder that my job is to faithfully serve the Lord, and leave the results up to Him. But it sure is neat to see the faces of your "kids" on your "Facebook," and know that God is still at work.