Come to the Manger

Every Christmas, my mother would set out an "Old World" Nativity set on the living room coffee table.  It was complete with Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, shepherds, 3 wise men, angel, sheep,  a cow, a donkey, camels and a stable. 

Unfortunately, as the years went by, existing in a household with two rambuctious boys and going through multiple family moves, some of the nativity pieces were broken or lost.

First, it was a missing sheep and then, I guess, the shepherd who went looking for it.  Then, one of the donkey's ears was broken off.  Next one of the wise men, lost his head. Can you set out a Nativity scene, with just two magi?  Then the angel broke her wing. And somehow the camels wandered off?  You get the picture.  Eventually, my mother would only set out the stable, Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus.

Granted these are the focus personalities of the Nativity scene, but the message of Christmas is incomplete without the shepherds and wise men.  For they represent the recipients of God's redemptive plan for all mankind.  They were the first "invited guests" to meet Jesus, God's son, the Savior of the world. 

God sent an army of angels to announce the arrival of Jesus to a group of lowly shepherds, who were tending a flock of sheep in the hills outside of Bethlehem.  They were the very first to hear the Good News.
 

"Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people.  Today in the town of David a Savior had been born to you, he is Christ the Lord.  This will be a sign to you. You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, peace on earth, goodwill to all men.  When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."  (Luke 2:8-15)

 

That very same night, over a thousand miles east of Bethlehem, astronomers searching the stars were astounded by the appearance of a "new" star. According to their pagan culture, a new star was a sign of the birth of new king.   This was God's special invitation just for them to come to the manger. These wealthy stargazers sojourned to Jerusalem to pay homage to a newborn king, a journey that would eventually lead them to Bethlehem. 

 

 "After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?  We saw His star in the east and have come to worship him.  ...When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.  On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed and worshipped him.  Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and myrrh."  (Matthew 2:1-2)

 

Shepherds and magi from a foreign land.  Why were they chosen by God to receive invitations to the most significant event in the history of the world?  Why not Ceasar Augustus, the most powerful ruler on earth...or Herod the King of the Jews...or the high priest in the Temple? 

 

The shepherds and the magi represent the broad spectrum of mankind.  Whether you are poor or rich. Whether Jew or Gentile.  Educated or not. From the humble to the austentatious, from the meek to the mighty.   By extending invitations to the shepherds and the wise men, God was extending an invitation to one and all, to come to the manger. 

 

The nativity scene is incomplete without the shepherds and the wisemen. God wants them there.  That's why He came into the world to begin with. If they are not there, then you and I would never have felt welcome there, either.  He came into the world to be our Savior and Lord, who gives us the gift of eternal life.

 

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His one and only Son that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)

 

Like the shepherds and the magi, God has extended a special invitation for you to come to the manger and meet Him.  It may not be an angelic choir or a new star in the sky, but you will recognize it when it comes to you.  God knows just how to get our attention right where we are.  Come to the manger, because He came for you.  When you meet Him, just like the shepherds and the wisemen, nothing will be the same again.

 

O Come, Let Us Adore Him, Christ the Lord...

Ellis & Jackie Hayden

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 



 

After All, It's Christmas...

Have you noticed the way Christmas affects people? This is the time of year that you see some 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 in store aisles and stand in long lines in the wee hours of the morning to purchase the hottest new gadget. They will 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, we should 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 you and me. He rose from the grave to prove that everlasting life was His to give, His 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 and Jackie Hayden

Expect Great Things; Attempt Great Things

Recently, on the anniversary of Chuck Yeager's historic jet flight that broke the sound barrier for the very first time, Felix Baumgarten, also broke the sound barrier traveling at Mach1.24 or 833 mph. Yet, Baumgarten did it without a supersonic jet or space shuttle.  

From 24 miles above the earth, Baumgarten skydived from 24 miles above the earth, wearing a pressurized flight suit.  His jump shattered the speed of sound during his four minute and twenty second freefall before he opened his parachute and gently landed on the ground. 

What drives men like Baumgarten and Yeager to risk life and limb to do what never has been done before?  Are they just thrill seekers or adrenaline junkies?  Are they just crazy?  Maybe, but their courageous exploits capture our attention and our admiration.

"Expect Great Things From God; Attempt Great Things For God!"

William Carey boldly challenged Christians to believe God enough to take a leap of faith which launched the modern missionary movement with those words in 1792.  He was "crazy" enough to believe God's Word and then acted upon it.  What about you?

"I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me."    (Philippians 4:13)

"Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God." (Luke 18:27)

"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen"  (Ephesians 3:20-21)

"Have I not commanded you?  Be strong and courageous.  Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."  (Joshua 1:9)

Baumgarten trusted in aerospace science and technology to take his big leap.  You and I have the promises and resources of Almighty God to equip us, encourage us, and empower us to do great things for His glory. What do we really have to be afraid of?   So unbuckle your seat belts.  Step out on the edge. Take a leap of faith!  It will capture the attention of an unbelieving world and bring glory to God.

Expect Great Things from God; Attempt Great Things for God!

Living On Borrowed Time

While a freshman in college, I was involved in a wreck, that totaled the car and seriously injured a friend of mine, who was my passenger. Though, my friend fully recovered from his injuries and has no personal recollection of the accident.  I have vivid memories of the accident.  The sights, sounds, and even the smells are etched in my memory.  It was the first time in my life, that I really thought I was about to die.  Since then, I guess you could say, I have been "living on borrowed time."  

Have you ever wished that you had more time?  More time to finish what you started.  More time to spend with loved ones.  More time to make up for what you didn't do.  

In the Bible, there was a king of Judah named Hezekiah, who at age 39, became gravely ill.  God sent the prophet Isaiah to tell him to put his house in order, for soon he would die. (Isaiah 38:1-22)  Hezekiah prayed to God, "Remember me, O Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion and have done what is good in your eyes."  And Hezekiah wept bitterly."  In his fourteen years as king, Hezekiah had honored God with his life and reign as ruler over Judah.  He begged God for more time.

God heard Hezekiah's prayer and again spoke through the prophet Isaiah, telling him that God would add fifteen years to his life and deliver the city of Jerusalem and Judah from an Assyrian invasion.  Hezekiah praised God for his "borrowed time,"

"But what can I say? He has spoken to me, and He Himself has done this.  I will walk humbly all my years because of this anguish of my soul...the living-they praise you, as I am doing today: fathers tell their children about your faithfulness."  (Isaiah 38:15, 19).

Sadly, Hezekiah's final fifteen years were not his best.  In 2 Chronicles 32:25, we find that Hezekiah did not keep his vow to God.  "But Hezekiah's heart was proud and he did not respond to the kindness shown on him or on Judah and Jerusalem."

As time went by, Hezekiah took God's gift of "borrowed time" for granted.  He began to regard God's blessing of  his health, the security of Jerusalem, and the prosperity of Judah as his own personal accomplishments.  Though God kept his promise to the king, Hezekiah's "borrowed time" and pride would have dire consequences.

When an envoy from Babylon came bearing gifts, Hezekiah welcomed them. His pride led him to "show off" all the treasures and wealth of the kingdom of Judah to his foreign visitors and bragged of "his" successes as a leader.  Oblivious of the fact that he was entertaining spies of a foreign enemy, who would come years later to conquer the nation, destroy Jerusalem,and take all the treasures.

During his "final fifteen years," Hezekiah's son, Manasseh, was born.  He who would succeed his father as king of Judah at age twelve and reign for fifty-five years.  "He (Manasseh) did evil in the eyes of the Lord, following the detestable practices of the nations the Lord had driven out before the Israelites." (2 Chronicles 33:2)  All the good that God had accomplished through Hezekiah would be destroyed by his son's evil.

We have all wished that we had more time.  Hezekiah got his wish, but he took it for granted and wasted it.  God gives us all the time that we need, we just need to acknowledge that it's a gift from God and strive to use every moment of it wisely.

"So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.  (Ephesians 5:15-17 NLV)

Shoring Up Sandcastles

Sandcastles just don't last.  Huge elaborate sculptures created by talented sand sculptors who labor for hours nor simple structures built by children with pails and little shovels don't last.  When the tide rolls in, the waves of water will eventually wash the any sandcastle away.

According to national statistics, many homes are proving to be only sandcastles.  Tragically, Over one third of all marriages over the past two decades have ended in divorce.  Today, one third of America's children are living in single parent homes.  Another unsettling statistic is that the homes of those who claim to be Christians are not faring any better.

George Barna, who directed the study, noted that Americans have grown comfortable with divorce as a natural part of life.  "There no longer seems to be much a stigma attached to divorce; it is now seen as an unavoidable rite of passage," the researcher indicted.  "Interviews with young adults suggest that they want their initial marriage to last, but are not particularly optimistic about that possibility."

Financial pressures, intimacy issues, frantic schedules, cultural changes, and lack of commitment are among the waves that relentlessly pound today's families.  Even families who claim to be Christians and who are active in their churches, are not immune to the erosion of their homes. That's why Jesus shared with his followers the story of two men who each built a house.  In Eugene Peterson's paraphrase of Matthew 7:24-27, (The Message), we find the word picture that Jesus painted which really hits home.

"These words I speak to you are not incidental additions to your life, homeowners improvements to your standard of living.  They are foundational words, words to build a life on.  If you work these words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who built his house on solid rock.  Rain poured down, the river flooded, tornado hit - but moved that house.  It was fixed to the rock.

"But if you just use my words in Bible studies and don't work them into your life, you are like a stupid carpenter who built his house on the sandy beach.  When a storm rolled in and the waves came up.  It collapsed like a house of cards."

What is the foundation of your home?
Love...good answer but if it emotional feeling kind of love, that can rise and fall like a roller coaster.
Financial security...that's good, too. Yet, finances is listed as one of the top issues that couples fight about.
Family activities...the constant movement of being involved in school, church, social and recreational activities is that the centrifugal force holding your family together.  What happens when you stop spinning?

Those who have built their lives on the foundation of faith in Jesus Christ, have discovered that His words are true and when applied to our daily living our successful.  With God's Word as your blueprint, we have "his divine power that has given us everything we need for life and godliness." (2 Peter 1:3)  Those who take seriously their Christian faith and apply Biblical principles to their marriage and family life do survive the storms of life.

Couples who regularly practice any combination of serious religious behaviors and attitudes - attend church nearly every week; read their Bibles and spiritual materials regularly; pray privately and together; generally take their faith seriously, living not as perfect disciples but serious disciples- enjoy significantly lower divorce rates than mere church members, the general public and unbelievers.

Jesus said that knowing and applying the truth of God's word to our everyday living will enable us to withstand the assaults on our homes.  Building our lives and our homes on God's truth will provide the stability we need.

"The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge."  (Psalm 18:2)

Lessons From An Old Pro

“You need to take a few lessons from a real pro.”  That was Herb’s advice to me.  This 87 year old man, who was a scratch golfer during his prime with three holes-in-one to his credit, was offering some wisdom for this “hacker.”  Sadly a week later, he succumbed to the leukemia that dragged him from the game that he loved.  I was privileged to preach his funeral and minister to his grieving family.

“Take lessons from a Pro.”  That’s good advice for life, as well as golf.  The apostle Paul wrote his final letter to Timothy, a younger man whom he had mentored.  This “old pro” who boldly proclaimed the Good News of Jesus Christ, established churches  and whose letters now make up nearly half of the New Testament, shares with Timothy some lessons from about life and ministry for us all. 

Especially noteworthy is Paul’s assessment of his own life recorded in 2 Timothy 4:6-8…

“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure.  I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have kept the faith.  Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”

Facing eminent death, Paul provides his perspective of life… past, present and future.

Live a “Poured-Out” Life Today

Paul would soon die a martyr’s death, yet his final hours are spent encouraging a young follower of Christ.  From time of his encounter with Christ on the Damascus Road, Paul was a man on a mission.  He made the most of every day to fulfill God’s purpose for his life.  “Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16)    He lived a “poured-out” life.  Giving all he had to share the love of Christ and message of the gospel to others.  

  

Look Back with No Regrets

When Paul reflected on the past, he had no regrets.  “I have fought the good fight, I finished the race and I have kept the faith.”  Every challenge that he faced, he battled with Christ by his side. Everything he started, he knew that Christ would enable him to persevere.  Despite any obstacle, he believed that Christ would overcome it.   Throughout his life, Paul knew that everything that he experienced good or bad, that it for his betterment and God’s glory.   “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

Look Forward to Your Heavenly Reward

Paul didn’t need his life validated by trophies, or monuments or the praise of men.  He looked forward to the reward that the Lord would give to him in eternity.  Paul didn’t consider death a loss.  “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”  (Philippians 1:21)  He knew that his greatest victory was still to come… eternal life which was made available through Jesus Christ.  “Where, O death is your victory?  Where, O death is your sting?  The sting of death is sin and the power of sin is the law.  But thanks be to God!  He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”  (1 Corinthians 15:55-56) 

Hopefully, this lesson from an “old pro” will help you stay on the straight and narrow fairway that leads to everlasting life.

Praying for Daylight

Praying for Daylight

Imagine being a passenger on an ancient sailing ship caught in the midst of a hurricane for two weeks.  Shrouded in darkness, pummeled by waves, wind and driving rain. With no power or navigation, the ship is driven by the storm. The situation so dire that the ship's crew tossed all the cargo overboard to lighten the load and used ropes to surround the bow of the ship just to hold it together.  Hopelessness gripped their hearts.  In desperation, they lowered all their anchors and prayed for daylight. 

Have you ever found yourself  "praying for daylight?"  Enveloped by the darkness of the unknown, tossed about by waves of fear and doubt, feeling powerless as you are consumed by the storm.  "Praying for daylight" is our desperate cry for help.  You probably haven't been on a ship swallowed by a hurricane, but you may have been overwhelmed with fear and a feeling of hopelessness by one of life's storms.  Loss of a job, a broken relationship, health issues, the death of a loved one... are among the kinds of storms that foster anxiety, discouragement, depression and despair. 

Among the 276 souls aboard that fateful ship bound for Rome was the missionary Paul, who was a prisoner facing trial before the Roman emperor for proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ.  Yet, Paul was the only one on that ship who still had hope .(Acts 27:14-44)  His hope was not based upon the strength of the ship or the ability of the crew.  His hope was grounded in his relationship with God.   

The sailors lowered four anchors in their hope of keeping the ship from crashing into the rocks.  Paul's hope was already anchored in the assurance of God's guidance, God's love, God's power and God's presence in his life.   With those four anchors, Paul was able to ride out the storm with his hope in God, as well as save everyone on the ship with him.  Those same anchors can help you weather life's storms, too.

Paul's Anchors of Hope

The Light of God - "Jesus said, "I am the light of the world.  Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."  (John 9:12)  God will show you the way, when you are willing to trust His directions.

The Love of God - "This is love; not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins."  (1 John 4:9)  God loved us so much to send His Son to die for our sins, then we can trust that God desires only the best for you, even when we can't see it at the moment.

The Power of God - "God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble.  Therefore, we will not fear."  (Psalm 47:1)  We can trust that God is all powerful.  He has the power to calm the storm, as well as the power to calm the storms of fear and doubt inside of you.  

The Presence of God -  "God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5)  God has promised that He will always be with you.  He will never, ever desert you.  

The light of God surrounds you, 

The love of God enfolds you, 

The power of God protects you, 

The presence of God watches you.

Wherever you are, God is, and all is well.

by James Dillett Freeman

As a follower of Jesus Christ, you always have hope.  "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure."  (Hebrews 6:19)

After All, It is Christmas...

Have you noticed the way Christmas affects people? This is the time of year that you see some 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 in store aisles and stand in long lines in the wee hours of the morning to purchase the hottest new gadget.   They will 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, we should 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 you and me. He rose from the grave to prove that everlasting life was His to give, His 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 and Jackie Hayden

The Boys of Fall

This is an "edited" feature I wrote for the Gladewater Mirror and Big Sandy-Hawkins Journal as part of their Fall Sports Preview for the 2010 Football season.  Inspired by country entertainer, Kenny Chesney’s new release, “The Boys of Fall,” I added a little commentary to localize the essence of high school football in East Texas. Because in this part of East Texas, high school football is more than a game, its part of the fabric of our lives.

The Boys of Fall

Well, its turn and face the stars and stripes,
Its fightin back them butterflies
Its call it in the air alright yes sir we want the ball
And its knockin' heads and talkin trash
Its slingin mud and dirt and grass
Its I got your number, I got your back when your backs against the wall
You mess with one man, you got us all,
The boys of fall.

From Celina to Joaquin, the Friday night lights of high school football stadiums pierce the darkness. Whether its a big Class 5A program like Tyler Lee or a small one, like the Six-Man football played at Leverette’s Chapel, its still football and their fans order their lives around the season schedule. On Friday, from Paris to Italy (Texas, that is), yellow school buses with teams, bands and fans will be caravanning down the highways on their way to a stadium somewhere. All for the boys of Fall.

Well I feel that chill, smell that fresh cut grass
I’m back in my helmet, cleats and shoulder pads
Standin' in the huddle, listenin' to the call
Fans going crazy for the boys of fall

They didn't let just anybody in that club
Took every ounce of heart and sweat and blood
To get to wear those game day jerseys down the hall
Kings of school, man, we're the boys of fall.

As memories of their playing days come flashing back, men become the boys of fall again. All the sights and sounds, even the smells trigger flashbacks of those times when they were on the field. From the stands, they see things on the field, that others don’t see because they have been in that elite club. Life lessons were learned there. Friendships were forged there. Blood, sweat and tears were spilled there. Between goal lines, they experienced the thrill of victory and agony of defeat. That’s why they come back year after year, to remember and relive those days when they were kings.

In little towns like mine, thats all they got
Newspaper clippings fill the coffee shops,
The old men with think they know it all
Young girls will dream about the boys of fall.

  High school football consumes East Texas communities like Arp and Daingerfield because the schools are the heart and soul of the community. Their history is chronicled by the win -loss record of the home team that year. The streets are deserted on Friday nights, because everyone is at the game.  Old and young, will debate important questions like…who was the best you ever saw?…was it Campbell or Shead? Harrell or Mallett? Moore or Alexander? …that is until next “best ever” comes along.

Well its turn and face the stars and stripes,
Its fightin back them butterflies
Its call it in the air alright yes sir we want the ball
And its knockin' heads and talkin trash
Its slingin mud and dirt and grass
Its I got your number, I got your back when your backs against the wall
You mess with one man, you got us all,
The boys of fall.

 Friday night throughout East Texas, high school teams with mascots like Lions, Tigers, and Bears (oh,my), as well as Bulldogs and Buckeyes will kick off the 2010 season against Eagles, Wildcats, Mustangs, Pirates and Panthers . All with high hopes. Coaches and players alike, will be fightin’ back butterflies. There will definitely be the knockin’ of heads. Bands will be blaring fight songs. Cheerleaders will be jumping. And the fans will be drawn to football stadiums, like moths to the lights.

All because of the boys of fall.

Walking On Water

While enjoying a day of fishing on a pond, three preachers got into a discussion about faith. One of the preachers declared, "I have the faith to believe that I can walk on water to the shore."  He put down his rod and reel, stood up, stepped out of the boat and proceeded to walk on the water to the shore. One of the preachers still in the boat, cried out, "I've got as much faith as you." Then he stood up, stepped out of the boat and walked on the water to the shore joining the other preacher.  The preacher, still in the boat was unwilling to acknowledge that the others had more faith than he, declared, "I have faith, too."  He then stood up, stepped out of the boat into the water and sank like a rock.  As he came up gasping for air and started paddling toward the shore.  The two other preachers were having a great laugh, when one turned to the other,and asked,  "Do you think we should  tell him where the stumps are?"

God's Word says "For we walk by faith, not by sight."  (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV)  It is not easy to do, is it? 

Remember the account in the Matthew 14, when Jesus sent the disciples ahead to cross the Sea of Galilee by boat at night, as he remained behind to pray.  The wind hindered their progress, and around 3:00 AM, Jesus came to them, walking on the water. The disciples were terrified, thinking that Jesus was a ghost.  Jesus reassured them, saying, "Take courage.  It is I. Don't be afraid."  Impetuously, Peter said, "if it is you, Lord, bid me to come to you on the water."  Jesus said, "Come."  Peter climbed out of the boat, and started walking on the water toward Jesus.  How in the world, did Peter do that?  He walked on water.  That's impossible.

Did someone tell him where the stumps were?  No, there weren't any tree stumps, but there are some spiritual stumps that he used  that can help us to walk on water. 

The first stump is BELIEVE.  Peter believed in who Jesus was and believed that He was able to empower him to do what He was doing. Henry Blackaby defines faith as having confidence that what God promises or says will come to pass.  Believe that God is God and nothing is impossible for Him.  Believe that if He tells us to do something, He is able to empower us to accomplish it.  Do you have complete confidence in God's word?

The second stump is ACT.  Faith is more than just believing, it also involves acting on what you believe.  Peter did something that none of the other disciples did that night.  He got out of the boat.  The other disciples didn't.  You can't walk on water, if you don't get out of the boat. We must act on what we believe, trusting God all the way.  Are you ready to get out of the boat?

The third stump is KEEP YOUR EYES ON JESUS.  Now we all remember, that Peter was doing great until he became distracted by the wind and the waves. Taking his eyes off Jesus, he began to sink into the water.  Peter wasn't walking on the water, in his own strength.  It was trusting in Jesus that enabled him to walk on the water. Isn't it the same for us, we are all sunk without Jesus?  Fortunately, He rescues us when we fail, and reminds us that we can accomplish more, if we just trust Him.

Walking on water isn't impossible, when you know where the stumps are.

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?