Tag: ministry

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Alpha & Omega

Grace and peace to you my friend. A season seems to be upon us in which many believers are struggling. Sadder yet, some are falling away.

I have written a few questions which may be helpful if you are a believer who feels like they are struggling, as we all tend to do sometimes. Perhaps now is the time to take a long realistic look into the mirror of your soul. I honestly pray for the Lord Jesus Christ to convict and to comfort you in the questions as well as the answers. I bless you in Jesus name!

1. This would be the alpha question…Do I need to return to my first love?

 Rev. 2:4 “But I have this against you, that you have left your first love.”

2. Is busyness and the things of this world choking out my relationship with Jesus?

Mark 4:19 “but the worries of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the desire for other things enter in and choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful.”

3. Am I placing anything or anyone in my life ahead of Jesus?

 Col. 1:18 “He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the first born from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.”

4. Do I genuinely know Jesus or do I just know about Him?

John 14:17 “that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.”

5. Does the written word continuously lead me to encounter the Living Word?

Luke 24:32 “Were not our hearts burning within us while He was speaking to us on the road, while He was explaining the scriptures to us?”

6. Do I take time to listen throughout my day and do I hear His voice consistently?

John 10:27 “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me”

7. Am I totally, completely enamored with Jesus?

Mark 12:30″You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.”

8. Am I having face to face encounters with Jesus?

Rev. 3:20 “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into him and will dine with him, and he with Me.”

9. Can I find myself anywhere in the Song of Solomon? Am I longing for Jesus?

Song of Solomon 8:5 “Who is this coming up from the wilderness leaning on her beloved?”

10. Do I have peace?

John 16:33 “These things I have spoken to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.”

11. Is Jesus sitting on the throne of my heart?

Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.”

12. And this would be the Omega question…Do I need to return to my first love?

Rev. 21:6 Then He said to me, “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give to the one who thirst from the spring of the water of life without cost.”

Friend, if you made it this far…then God bless you! Jesus loves you! If you happen to be dazed and confused by all this, it’s ok. The Bible says there is a veil that remains over our heart that is only removed in Christ. Jesus once told a very religious man, “You must be born of the Spirit” and the man didn’t understand. All of us at some point in our lives are forced to look into the mirror of our soul and say, “There has got to be something better than this!” Our own conscience even bears witness to this. Please hear me friends when I say there is some really good news for you today. Jesus is the better way! Scripture says, God rescues us out of the darkness and transfers us into the Kingdom of His beloved Son. Being a living testimony, I promise and I swear it is absolutely true! It is written, O taste and see that the Lord is good.

His goodness far exceeds are expectations! Jesus is madly, passionately, head over heels in love with you. He forgives you. He renews you. He gives you peace. He gives you eternal life. He moves into your heart and every thing about you changes for the better. No cost. Just for the asking. So please…invite Him in and experience that what I say is true. Prepare to enter into the biggest adventure and the most excellent love affair you could ever imagine. A few simple heart felt words will change your life forever.

Jesus, I need You and I receive You. Thank You…my Lord!

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The Way of Peace

In this day of so much miscommunication, Hope still shines brightly. Honest and open communication is the key to any successful relationship. Unfortunately, miscommunication can be the source of terrible strife and division. All the way back in the garden, the truth of what God said was twisted and misperceived, casting mankind into this perpetual battle with sin. Eve and Adam were pure and innocent in their understanding right up until their teeth crushed through the skin of that luscious fruit and the juice of sin and selfishness lustfully drizzled down their chin. At that point, “Me, Me, Me” suddenly became the center of the universe.

But I believe it has always been in the heart of our Heavenly Father that the source of all of our knowledge and understanding would come from our own personal relationship with Him. Our Father has always been about walking hand and hand with us in the garden. Jesus made the way, paying the ultimate price. Out of His great love, He created us and then He rescued us, all for the sake of relationship. The pathway upon which we walk is communion, in other words, we talk and relate to each other honestly, respectfully, continuously.

However, our prideful and self-centered tendencies are to go it alone, to look lustfully at the tree and say, “I can do this myself.” There lies our tumultuous struggle, not only truth versus lies, light versus darkness,  but more blatantly truth versus our perception of truth, in other words, the way we want the truth to be.

                “Did God really say…?” 

This very question still challenges our innate ability to communicate and to hear from God. The same concept can be applied to our everyday relationships; our family and friends, our workplace, even our church. Open, genuine and purposeful communication is the key to freedom. Miscommunication is the devil. It makes us prisoners to our fractured soul. In the garden, it caused doubt resulting in sin. Sin opened their eyes to nakedness or shame. Shame produced fear which resulted in hiding from their very own Father who loves them. We are all well aware of the end result, our own sinful nature that loves darkness and is afraid of being exposed to the light. The process remains the same; misunderstanding, lack of communication, vain imaginations and straight up lies continue to destroy lives, families and even cities and nations.

So what opens the door to truthful communication? Regretfully, often times it can be conflict. We sail along on rough seas ignoring and pretending the boat is not sinking; that is until the storm overtakes us. The wind blows, the thunder claps, our emotions become the rudder of our conversation and we will defend our self-centered belief system even to the death. I suppose conflict might be necessary when nothing else can tear through the walls of fear and pride but the problem with conflict is it always creates an atmosphere of chaos. Chaos will ultimately end in two polar opposite choices. One steers us to peaceful waters, understanding and reconciliation. The other’s outcome is a total shipwreck leaving behind the carnage of anger, bitterness, and an unwillingness to forgive. Relationships drown in a sea of pride and resentment.

Good news though…a lifeboat is on the way! His name is Jesus. Through the fog of chaos and confusion, He brings courage. The struggle to bring light into darkness is traumatic and requires much courage. The key is love but it takes courage to turn the key. This door is the way of humility and surrender, putting other’s interest first. It’s the way of the cross. Humility and weakness carry truth much further than pride and arrogance. Humility is the foundation of confidence and will always create an atmosphere of peace. Peace, however, doesn’t always look like calm waters. Jesus was sound asleep, perhaps dreaming of green pastures and quiet waters when his disciples frantically screamed something like, “We are all going to die!” Jesus however, arose from a place of peace, looked confidently at the storm and said, “Peace be still!” Winds died down. Waters became calm. Hearts again were at rest. Blue sky and sunshine emerged from the dark clouds. So may this thought be etched upon our hearts and a standard by which we all live,

               Peace begets Peace!

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. (Psalm 91)

The meaning and purpose of life is two things, love God, love others. Love’s torment is passionately desiring God’s very best for ourselves and everyone around us. Love is the activity of thankfulness and was never meant to be passive. Love courageously initiates the relationship, especially in stormy waters. Love listens intently and patiently. Love speaks truth gently and cares deeply. Even in the midst of lightning flashing and thunder’s rumbling, love stays because love wins. Love wins!

Because of the tender mercy of our God, with which the Sunrise from on high will visit us, to shine upon those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

(Luke 1:78-79)

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Now We Wait

Preparations have been made, hearts are ready, let us celebrate the day of the Lord! Over the past month, we have fasted, feasted and set our hearts on a pilgrimage to seek the Lord. We have been looking forward to celebrating a glorious day. It is the greatest day in the history of mankind. On the third day, the breath of life returned back into the body of the Son of Man, raising Him from death to life, signifying the work of the cross and the work of the grave was finished. Mankind, now through Jesus has the right, the privilege, and the opportunity, once again to walk and abide in the presence of our Holy God. Praise His name! Every year tradition has us celebrating the day the world calls Easter, but we who believe know it as the day of the resurrection of our Lord. So today here we are, that festive day has come and past, the merriment, and activities have died down and I’m left asking this one question…What now?

If ever there was a whisper of the voice of a prophet in me, it most surely is now. Like the beating of a drum, these words echo with resolve out of the recesses of my spirit. The heavenly answer to my question “What now?” is:

“Now we wait!”

Now we wait? What does it mean to wait?

Waiting can be a demonstration of faith because even though you don’t know what will happen next, the very act of waiting expresses a desire that something, in fact, will come. Though expressed differently, waiting and hoping are -at the very least- first cousins. The Biblical definition of hope is joyful anticipation of good. So we wait because we expect something good. As well, the words trust and rest and expectation should also be holding hands in this circle of faith. This faith allows us to turn our head toward an ancient east wind blowing out of Jerusalem to listen to the voice of the disciples as they whisper these same words: “Now we wait!” The words of their Messiah rang true in spirit as they remembered what Jesus had told them,

‘Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about.’

For forty days Jesus had appeared to His followers giving them many convincing proofs that He indeed was alive. Jesus had disappeared into the clouds and now the disciples were trudging inquisitively back to gather together in Jerusalem. Jesus had commanded them, “Wait for the promise.” They really didn’t know or understand what exactly they waited for. How could they? This new and glorious gift had never been seen or done before in this manner. Still, by faith, they waited. Faith created an expectancy and anticipation in their hearts. If the past three years had taught them anything, it was simply to trust in what Jesus says and don’t try to bring their own understanding into the equation. Experience had taught them no matter what they expected or whatever happened, it was going to be far greater than they could ever imagine. Love now commanded their heart. Experience had taught them to trust. Faith was the fuel for hope that burned fervently inside them. That hope produced a heartfelt expectation that good things were coming! With a resolve as certain as words etched into stone, each were waiting and proclaiming, “Yes…God is good!” And God was good. And God is good. And God will always be good!
As sure as the sunrise, the promise came like wind and fire with unexplainable power and glory, touching the hearts and souls of all who found faith in waiting.

The miracle of this moment turned a group of one hundred twenty who waited into a love struck army of three thousand. These Spirit-filled believers would begin a movement that even to this day would turn the world upside down. Two thousand years later, here we are, actively and expectantly waiting. Just like those extraordinary men and women of old, we really don’t know what is next. We are not sure what we are waiting for, but still, we wait. Our hearts are excited and full of joy. We wait with the excitement of young children on Christmas morning. Our eyes are open and dodging sleep. Our lamps are burning brightly and full to the brim with oil. If the Bridegroom knocks, we are awake and ready to fling open the door, fall on our face and kiss His beautiful feet.

So to answer the burning question in our hearts that is asking “what now?” is this:

“Now we wait!”
I pray you find much joy in the waiting!
“And now, Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in You.” (Ps. 39:7)

“Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes wait for the Lord.” (Ps. 27:14)

“Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength.” (Isa. 40:31)

“But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.” (Ro. 8:25)

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Don’t Forsake the Process

Needing a couple of days of rest from work and ministry, I along with Julie, Hugh and Monte made the trek through the Hill Country to Fredricksburg. This is a Central Texas town that hosts a variety of wineries and is just the sort of place you want to go to when you need a weekend to rest.

We sampled several wines. Some were made in Texas with locally grown grapes. Others were imported from wineries around the world. My favorite was a Mar-Red, imported from Israel. At one stop, we visited with a well-known winemaker who gave us an education for one hour about wine making. Par for the course, I had many off the wall questions and he was gracious to answer them all. I wanted to know about the entire process from start to finish -from seed to the glass. As always for me, the natural way of things tend to
point to a greater understanding of spiritual things. Here’s what I learned.

What happens when you pour water into a wineskin? You’re right…nothing! The water just sits there wet and still. But what happens when you pour water into an empty vessel that’s meant for sanctification? With Jesus, that water turns to wine. In the same way, to be born again is as drastic a change as dark to light or even water to wine. The old pattern of thinking has gone and the new transformation has come.

However, if you try to pour new wine into an old wineskin, being stiff and dry, the skin will break and all the wine is spilled out on the ground and lost. The old wineskin now becomes useless which leads me to believe an old wine skin is only good for holding old wine or perhaps even just hanging on the wall.  On the other hand, a new wineskin is moist and soft and pliable. As the fermenting process continues with the fresh wine, the new skin is able to move and expand and stretch with the effervescence of the wine. So too, the born again believer is able to stretch and grow with the effervescence of the Word of God and the Holy Spirit of God within.

Characteristics of a new wine skin are humility, thankfulness, childlike wonder, a repentant heart, a desire for change and a heart for others. The evidence of new wine is the outpour of love and mercy that can only come from a thankful, repentant heart. Suddenly, a shift from self and selfishness moves us to a new place of honestly loving and caring and stopping for those in need. The effervescence and percolating wine within bends and shapes us back to our original design. We become more outward focussed instead of inward focussed.

Worldly pride, as well as religious pride, will walk by the unclean every time, hissing, accusing and justifying. But new wine sees into the darkness without fear and willingly sacrifices time and money and self without limits or constraint. Quiet and powerfully, the new wine in us motivates us to seek out the lost and hidden treasure in people everywhere. Something in us like grapes to wine has definitely changed. Jesus painted the ultimate masterpiece of selflessness for us by willingly going to the cross, taking the punishment due us upon himself and offering His life as a sacrifice in place of ours.

Today, He offers us a drink of new wine. New wine is freedom. New wine is hope. New wine is purpose. New wine is significance. New wine is life. New wine is love. New wine is joy. New wine is peace. New wine is healing. New wine is salvation. The way is simple and without cost. The corkscrew to new wine is placing all your faith and trust in Jesus. He beckons us to come to Him as an empty vessel longing to be filled. Scriptures teach that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Please hear my desperate and loving shout, you must be born again. Faith is the key. Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. New wine is just a prayer away. Where do you start? On your knees is a good place, saying Jesus, I want to be born of the Spirit. New wine is knowing and walking with Jesus. It’s good news and all are invited. All are welcome. Jesus has saved the best for last!

So together we raise our glass to honor, to remember and to give thanks to the only One, Jesus Christ who gives us eternal life.

Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

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The Times They Are a-Changin’

As followers of Christ, we should be the happiest people on the planet! We have everything to live for. We have everything to shout for. We have everything to be thankful for. We have Jesus! What could be better y’all?

In the early nineteen sixties, a famous ragamuffin poet named Bob Dylan penned the song “The Times They Are A-Changin’.” As we approach the year 2017, it becomes appropriate for us to resurrect that same age old tune and proclaim, “Yes! The times they are a-changin’!” I love what the prophet Daniel received in a night vision.

“It is He (the Lord) who changes the times and epochs; (set seasons)
He removes kings and establishes kings;
He gives wisdom to wise men and knowledge to men of understanding.” (Dan. 2:21)

I can remember that sometime around 2007, the winds of change beginning to blow throughout the church. The sound of worship was changing. A new sound began to arise in worship across the land. We moved from celebratory songs like “My Hope is in You” into a more minor-key type worship that actually opened the door to a personal and intimate relationship with the Lord. Places like IHOP, Bethel and Jesus Culture emerged as forerunners in a new sound that ushered in a new season. With every new season comes a new sound. With great excitement and enthusiasm, we entered into that season not really knowing where it would lead but all the while hoping for more.
What did I learn? It wasn’t what I expected, but I did learn a valuable lesson.

With any new birth there must be a great travail. What do I mean?
Suffering, perseverance, conflict, disillusionment, testing, refinement, surrender, waiting but most of all, trust. The deep and profound kind of trust.

I had encountered Jesus and what he was asking me was this:

“Do you trust me? Do you trust me? Do you trust me?”

Without hesitation my reply was,
Explicitly…Exclusively…Completely.

What I didn’t know was that those words would be the ticket to the most heart-wrenching roller coaster ride I could have ever imagined. And like a drowning man, I have resurfaced, gasping for air, smiling again and all the better for it.
A word to the wise: be mindful what you pray. It might just lead you to a wild and scary roller coaster ride.

The good news is this, it is a new day. We are entering into a new season. The time for moaning is past. A new and unique sound, straight out of heaven is about to flood the land. The winds of heaven are blowing and a huge wave, like a tsunami is forming, carrying a new sound that will be overtaking and crashing down upon anyone who is humble and hungry enough to embrace it. Sadly though, history proves many become so comfortable in one season that they are reluctant to move forward into the next season. But, “Fear not little flock, for it your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32) So in my Holy Spirit imagination I often picture myself journeying through the wilderness with the people of old; thousands of families just moving from place to place following the Glorious Cloud and the Radiant Light. As I journey to this desolate but wonderful place, my continuous prayer is:

Jesus, I want to stay right up front with You Lord so I can see what You are doing and so I can go where You are going. Help me to stay in perfect rhythm with You Lord!

So friends, a new season is upon us and I hope you can see the fire in my eyes and hear the passion in my voice as I lovingly whisper in your ear,
The time for moaning is past. It is a new day!
Let’s celebrate!
Let’s pick up the tempo!
Let’s take off the grave clothes and come alive again!
Let’s abandon our dignity, stomp our feet and begin to dance again…like David!
Let’s see if we can turn heaven’s head toward us!
Let’s make such a joyful sound that all of heaven and earth will stand up and take notice!

All movements born in God usually have small beginnings. It only takes one spark to start a fire. One small seed planted and watered can yield a mighty oak! Be the spark! Be the seed! I’ll leave you with this final thought from God’s Word. May it be etched upon your heart…

…but just as it is written, “Things which eye has not seen and ear has not heard, and have not entered the heart of man, all that God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Cor. 2:9)

As followers of Christ, we should be the happiest people on the planet! We have the greatest reason to be.

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Our Father Who is in Heaven

Jesus was surrounded by tax collectors and sinners, enjoying a meal. The religious leaders and the educated elite questioned and judged his behavior. How did Jesus respond to the questions? With stories.

His response had a way of revealing the heart of men and exposing their self-serving agendas and mindsets. One particular story begins in Luke 15:11.

There was a man who had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living.

This story paints such a good picture of the relationship between a faithful Father and a wayward son. This kind of family relationship is slowly disappearing in our culture. It desperately needs to be revived and restored.

One question that I have had is this: why is Luke’s gospel the one that God chose to use to tell us the story of a Dad and two sons when Luke was a physician and a gentile? Was there something special about Luke that made him understand the relationship between a Father and son? Did Luke have sons? Did it have anything to do with his own relationship with Paul. Was it the lack of a strict religious background that allowed him to retell this story with greater accuracy? Whatever the reason, his words hit the mark with me.

In this particular story, many of us will initially identify with the younger son, the wild one who wasn’t satisfied with the mundane but longed for adventure and excitement. He sought it in the only place he knew or could see…in the world. This is certainly familiar in our culture today because we as leaders have done a poor job demonstrating the adventure and excitement found in following a King and His kingdom. As the story continues, it is easy for us to focus on the short-comings and selfishness of this younger boy but one fact is often overlooked. This younger boy knew without a doubt, he was his Father’s son. Because he knew he was a son, he knew he had an inheritance, so he asked for it, boldly. Also we see the younger boy addressing his father as “Father.” When the boy finally came to his senses and realized he was dying with hunger, he knew his Father would give him something to eat. Throughout the story, the boy never stopped calling him Father, even when he was face to face confessing his own wrong doing. No matter the cost, this boy knew who his father was and he needed to be back close to his father, safe under his loving care. Even though the boy expected nothing, he received everything! Sound familiar?

So what about the older brother? Here is the scene: It is late in the day, he is returning home, tired and sweaty from a laborious day in his father’s field. Suddenly, the appetizing aroma of barbecue fills his nostrils.

Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.’

The sound of singing and dancing and jubilation stirs his curious nature. Enter stage left, jealousy, offense and resentment as he hears of the kindness and forgiveness shown to his undeserving younger brother. The older weighs his own service and sacrifice against that of his wayward brother. He actually determines by his own obedience that he deserves to be rewarded for his many years of dedication. Let’s not forget, the father has already divided his wealth between both boys.

But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!’

Notice too, the older doesn’t address his father as Father. As well, all the older expects is a young goat, never ever dreaming of such extravagance as a fatted calf, and ring and brand new sandals. Sadly, this older brother only wanted to celebrate with his own circle of friends. What a contrast. The Father’s celebration of his lost son returned home included everyone. Now that is a party!

And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’

So what is going on here? An orphan on the street doesn’t know the unconditional love of a faithful Father. An orphan has to scam and scrap everyday just to survive. An orphan hoards and protects because he doesn’t know where his next meal is coming from. An orphan trusts no one. An orphan judges everyone. Out of hardship and lack, an orphan feels entitled. A orphan always lives with a sense of abandonment and fear. Orphans wear a mask. An orphan has never experienced the continual support and presence of a loving Father.

The good news for the orphan is this:

I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. (John 14:18)

A true son never loses sight of his Father. A son never questions his own identity as a son. A son is not threatened by others. A son has no problem opening up the refrigerator and eating whatever he finds. A son shares everything because he knows there will always be enough. A son is not afraid to fail. A son knows the character of his Dad, admiring Him, trusting Him, respectfully and lovingly addressing Him as Father. A son knows he is forgiven. A son knows how to receive good gifts. A son knows he is celebrated. A son knows how to celebrate others. A son knows all that his Father has, he has. A son knows his Father is always with him, always for him, never gives up on him and always, always wants the very best for his son. A son knows his Father will sacrifice everything for him. Above all, a son knows he is loved!

See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. (1 John 3:1)

Life can be messy. Church life can be messy. Becoming a son or daughter is the greatest gift and blessing we will ever experience. Whatever difficulties you may be facing, whatever challenges or disillusionment you might be experiencing…start here first. Start with this. Learn what it means to be a son or a daughter and then live it out. Learn from this story Jesus is telling. Learn together and then go and teach everyone around you how to live it out. And suddenly, surprisingly your life will take on great significance followed by overwhelming joy and satisfaction.

So I give to you a Father’s blessing. I remind you that you are one of a kind, special and unique in your Father’s eyes. You are beautiful. You are his perfect idea. He loves everything about you because He created you. He brings purpose and meaning to your life. Your life matters to Him and to us. You have gifts and talents that nobody else has and we need you so much. Above all, your Father loves and adores you!

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There is Joy in Sorrow, Perseverence in Pain

“This is the day the Lord has made…let us rejoice and be exceedingly glad!”

Everyday is a gift. Everyday we are given the opportunity to embrace life with exuberance, with thankfulness and with hope. A thankful heart coupled with hope puts the love of the Father on display and just like a light in a dark place; it awakens hope to everyone in its path. I pray hope is awakened in you friend, as you hear and see the words of this testimony.

Let the name of the Lord be praised!

You and I both have two things in common. Both of us enter into this world and both of us will depart from this world. Over the past seven or eight years I have experienced some difficult challenges health wise. All the while trusting God, I have been battling to overcome in all three realms of my being. In the spiritual realm, I’ve been leaning on the promises found in the scriptures, pushing deeper into the Fathers heart and crying out day and night, “Jesus rescue me from this pit.” In the realm of the soul, that being our thoughts, our will and our emotions, I have struggled fiercely to fight off depression. I have had to learn how to silence the voice of the accuser and how to tune into the voice of truth, the Spirit of truth who leads me in all understanding. I am learning to wake up each morning and consciously choose life. Thirdly, in my physical body I became sick with various unusual symptoms that totally depleted my strength. Through shear determination and the power of Holy Spirit I learned how to persevere. It seemed at the time I had no other choice, persevere or die. Scripture says this:

And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulation, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. (Romans 5:3-5)

I’m not sure I actually exulted but for the first year I trusted in God to heal and restore me to good health. With the counsel of some friends, I decided to visit the local physician. Over the next seven years I saw a total of sixteen well meaning doctors and specialist and even had one minor surgery. Each time before the visit, hope would arise in me. Each time nothing changed. I want to tell you it is not fun living the scripture, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick.” My heart was sick. Throughout this journey I always believed in the power of prayer. I was a regular recipient at local prayer teams. I visited healing rooms, I attended healing schools, participated in healing conferences. I’ve been prayed over a thousand times seeing people on the left and on the right restored. And as I celebrated their blessing, still I wondered and cried with disillusionment while whispering my one word prayer, “Abba.”

Before I continue, I believe Jesus will always provide bits of encouragement that will serve to sustain us among rough seas and raging storms. This is what He did for me.

A few months ago I arose early in the morning from a restless storm tossed night. Still dark outside, I sat at my desk, Bible open, coffee in hand and struggled to fight off another day of merely surviving. It was as though my soul was in a tug of war between light and darkness, peace and despair.  On one side of the rope there was peace and joy. On the other side, hopelessness. Suddenly…surprisingly, I became aware of being in two places at the same time. I knew I was sitting at my desk, however at the same time I had entered into a heavenly dimension. As I looked, there before me was a long rustic table. It was made of large, hand hewn and well seasoned timbers. The table’s finish was smooth and the overall texture was warm and inviting. I raised my eyes to see Jesus at the far end of the table. When our eyes met it was like looking into the depths of the deepest ocean or even more, I seemed to see beyond the most distant galaxies in heaven above. It was like looking into the eyes of eternity. His eyes and His smile are completely beyond human comprehension. At that moment, as time disappeared, I truly experienced the immensity and weightiness of unconditional, undeniable love. With a smile that lights up a thousand universes, He seemed to motion towards the table where I discovered what looked like an ornate jelly jar. I looked closer at the label on the jar. The letters seemed to be alive and spelled out the word, “JOY.” In my mind I began to spread the jelly over toasted bread and eat one piece after another. It was sweet in my mouth and refreshing to my soul. The tug of war in my soul was over and once again light had prevailed. Just as suddenly as I had left this earthly existence, I realized I was back sitting at my desk. Two stirring thoughts provoked me as I contemplated what had just happened. First I thought, “Hey! He really does prepare a table for us! He really does!” (Psalm 23)  Secondly, remembering Jesus didn’t say a word, I thought to myself, “His eyes speak more than a thousand words!” I wish I could convey to you how this encounter with Jesus, as brief as it was, would sustain me and continues to sustain me each and everyday. So now, each morning, I try to imagine His face, and the long rustic table, and the wonderful taste of joy He sets before me. Today, I have decided to choose life! Today, I choose joy!

O taste and see that the Lord is good; How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!

So over the past year I have been experiencing a gradual recovery. Strength is returning. Hope is returning. Many of the symptoms have totally disappeared. I am starting to remember what it’s like to feel good again. My prayer life has been rejuvenated. Even my smile has returned. It feels like I can breath again.

Now through all this, Julie and I never stopped seeking and serving the Lord. We still held our weekly meetings. We still served in the capacities we were called to serve, even as the road seemed to change coarse quite often. I guess I’m saying, I never laid down or quit. It never even entered into my mind to stop running the race, but I have learned and lived out what the Apostle Paul spoke of, “His grace is sufficient. His strength is made perfect in weakness.” If you can see ahead in this story, you’ll see another storm coming.

So a few weeks ago, after a routine visit to the doctor, a routine procedure and routine lab test, I was blind sided by a phone call. The words that came over the phone so impacted me that every thing started going black and I had fight to keep from passing out. I felt like a drowning man but somehow managed to call a friend. Barely able to speak or breath, my friend sensed the severity of the situation and he began to pray and declare scriptures over me. It was as though he was giving me spiritual CPR. I wonder if you can see the progression in every circumstance we could ever face, as Jesus says, I am the Way…the Truth…the Life? I quickly came back to life and was able to drive home. The words that had caused such trauma were, “You have malignant melanoma.”

Although we all face leaving this world, when death slaps you in the face, it’s devastating. As much faith as you have, the thought of death never leaves you. You carry it with you night and day like a heavy bag of rocks. I believe just the thought of barely emerging from a seven-year fight only to enter into another battle of this magnitude was overwhelming. I wasn’t sure I had the strength or fortitude to take on a battle of such immense proportions. Do you know the scripture, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue?” The report spoke death, not life, and opened the door to fear and doubt but I was determined not to walk through those doors. So here is what happened next:

First we rallied friends and family to pray. Julie kept saying over and over, “We do not agree with cancer and we do not agree with death, in Jesus name! I called on friends to help me with the armor, to hold a shield around me and to lift my hands. Do you remember when David’s nephew stepped in to help David slay the giant? We most certainly need friends to help us battle these giants. Next, I sought the Lord in prayer and asked Him how He saw this situation. Immediately, I was compelled to go to Romans 8. I prayed Romans 8:11 fervently, believing every word and reminding the Lord constantly of what his promise is.

But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.

Next I went and spent several hours with some friends who operate in an inner healing ministry to the soul. The Holy Spirit revealed some past events, people and even generational bondage that I wasn’t even aware of. Bringing things into the light, repenting, forgiving and putting everything under the blood of Jesus always leads to freedom and life. In this whole process I started seeing people different. I started to see each day as a gift and I am more thankful for even the smallest things throughout the day. It made me want to take more time for the people I encountered in normal everyday life. I became really interested in the check out lady, the security guard, the store clerk, and the construction worker. Somehow I began to see all these people in a different light.

As for my family, I thank God for everyday I have with them. I thank God for my wife, my best friend, my soul mate, my life long companion who has been with me every step of the way. She has always been in my court and she has always wanted the best for me, expecting me to excel in everything I approached. I am her hero…Julie is my Princess. I am thankful for my two sons who carry so much love and integrity and I could not be more proud of them. They are both caring and kind and are a reflection of the goodness of the Lord. I am so thankful and excited for our new daughter Jen, alias “Fer Fer,” and the blessing of many grandchildren in the years to come. Ask me what is the fruit of this momentary light affliction and I will tell you without hesitation, “Thankfulness!”

So with a little apprehension but a positive attitude, I underwent the required testing…and then you wait and wait. Monday morning, I’m at the job site. Life goes on, right? The phone rings and Julie on the other end is singing, “It’s a good day in the neighborhood!” “It’s a really good day in the neighborhood!” “A really, really, really good day!!!” “Your test came back and you have a clean bill of health! No cancer! None!” Do you know what it’s like when your swimming under water, you’re running out of breath and then suddenly you break the surface with a gasp and breath in a fresh breath of life sustaining oxygen? Yep, that’s what it felt like. And now I have three new favorite words, “Thank you Jesus!”

Years ago Julie had written my name next to the story of Naaman in her Bible. Honestly, today I feel like Naaman. The Monday morning I received the good news I had prayed and reminded the Lord what Psalm 91:9-10 says. During the process, four different people said I was healed. In our Friday night tent meeting, a trusted Father and a friend prayed for me and said I was healed. One of our daughters, a college student said, “I’m not worried at all. He’s healed!” Even the Holy Spirit said, “Jeff you’re o.k., there is no cancer in you body!” I look back and say, just a mustard seed. That’s all it takes just a mustard seed. So when death came knocking at my door my reply is not today death…not today. I am fearfully and wonderfully made. I know that full well, and besides only the Lord numbers my days. His plans for me are good and thankfully, it’s time to dream again!

Then let him be gracious to him, and say, ‘Deliver him from going down to the pit, I have found a ransom’; Let his flesh become fresher than in youth, let him return to the days of youthful vigor; Then he will pray to God, and He will accept him, that he may see His face with joy and He may restore His righteousness to man. (Job 33:24-26)

Thank you Jesus!

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Smaller & Smaller

Presently, I am upstairs in my Father in law’s study on this overcast, November day in Dallas, Texas. I am listening to joyous sounds and the laughter of family and friends that create such a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Cousins telling big tales, aunties cooing over the little ones, sisters excitedly planning weddings, dishes clanging in the kitchen, enticing smells deliciously rising upward and, as always, that age old question, “When does the football game start?” On this Thanksgiving day I am truly blessed and extremely thankful to be surrounded with so much love. I am sure my Father in law, George is looking on as well, from heaven with a nod of approval. We miss you and love you George. And as for you my friend, thank you for taking time from your busy life to share in the thoughts of a simple but blessed man. I hope you may find encouragement in a word or two and I pray Our Heavenly Father’s very best for you and your family.

Recently, I have been interested in the conversion the Apostle Paul experienced. It was such a radical change that many were skeptical, but those closest to him could not deny the difference. Sounds familiar! Uncomfortably, I believe I might have experienced some of that skepticism. Saul, the devout man he was, actually encountered the Lord Jesus Christ face to face and because of this encounter he never returned to his previous way of life. Paul wrote, “God rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the Kingdom of His beloved Son…” As evidenced in his letters, Paul seemed completely confident in who he was and in the purpose which God had called him. In the majority of his letters Paul introduces himself as an apostle of Christ by the Lord’s doing. Sadly, my western mindset tells me an apostle carries a semblance of importance and authority but Paul’s definition was much different. He continually defined himself as the least of these and a bond servant to Christ. Quite the dichotomy, wouldn’t you agree? Throughout the Bible we see many of our heroes underwent a name change expressing their true character as God sees them. Our potential in Christ is so much greater than the mirror our imperfect soul reflects. However, Jesus says, to those who overcome, I will give you a new name.

To him who overcomes, to him I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it. (Rev. 2:17)

My own quest and desire for a name change set me on a journey to find and understand Paul’s new name and how he fully embraced it. I found the name “Saul” means “desired”or “ask for.” However the new name “Paul”, appropriately means “small”or “humble.” I always wondered if his name change came at his conversion or somewhere in the journey. Upon investigation, just as I suspected, it was in the journey. The final use of the name “Saul” was all the way over in chapter thirteen of Acts.

But Saul, who was also known as Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, fixed his gaze upon him. (Acts 13:9)

Surprisingly, I was caught off guard at what I discovered by digging a little deeper into the scripture. According to the definitive notes in my Bible, the phrase “filled with the Holy Spirit” literally means “having just been filled.” Paul’s name change, the context of this chapter, and then being sent on mission shortly after seems to support something very different and wonderful had indeed happened. Was that truly the moment the Apostle Paul was actually filled, completely consumed, inhabited, overtaken, possessed by the Holy Spirt? A sign post for us is found towards the beginning of the chapter.

While we were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit…(Acts 13:2-4)

Being curious, I searched out the timeline on this. Saul’s encounter with Jesus took place in the year 34 AD, found in Acts 9. However, Paul’s first missionary journey, Acts 13, took place in the year 48 AD. Wow! That’s fourteen years later! Through trials and experience, I have learned it takes time to solidify a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. I personally, have found no substitute for dedicating a tremendous amount of time to actually know and establish an honest and genuine relationship with those close to us, whether in our natural lives or in the realm of Christ. In short, there are no short cuts and that is the reason it is so important to set aside time each day to cultivate a deeper relationship with the Lord. Praying, studying, listening, learning, meditating, worshipping are all acquired disciplines as a Christ follower. These require effort on our part and grace on His. That is how we grow and mature in Christ. The mystery I’ve discovered through pursuing these disciplines is, I end up with more questions than answers! God just keeps getting bigger and bigger, while like Paul, I become smaller and smaller. The true treasure can be found in the questions. Questions like: Has sin lost it’s hold on me?  Am I growing daily in Christ?  Am I an overcomer?  Am I a light shining in the darkness?  Do I love well?  What is my new name? I must have a thousand questions. I am sure you have many of your own questions too, so I’ll leave you to them. Wrestle well my friend. Embrace each day as a gift. Enjoy the journey. You are a unique expression of God’s love. No one is like you. You are an original and we need you. Without you there are stones missing on the wall! Wherever you are in the world, please know…you are loved and cherished!

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! Happy Thanksgiving Y’all!

…Paul passed through the upper country and came to Ephesus, and found some disciples. He said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?”

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Humble Apostleship

“It is not this way among you…”

So, you want to be an apostle? In our culture titles usually signify accomplishments or achievements through many years of dedication, sacrifice and perseverance. Doctors, judges, politicians and military rank are a few that come to mind. In our Christian culture today we often deem apostles as great leaders of churches or church movements around the world. Some religious sects believe there were only the original apostles in Jesus day and after they died there were no more. On the other hand, many self appointed apostles will shake your hand and give you a card that says “Apostle So and So” as they proceed to tell all kinds of stories that seem to insinuate how important they are. God bless them.
The dictionary defines apostle as “sent one.” It is my understanding that in the Roman conquest to acquire and rule the land, they found it necessary to assimilate the conquered people into the Roman culture. A means of maintaining order and control was changing the heathens mindset so they would totally adapt into the Roman culture. It reminds me of what the Babylon King did with Daniel and the boys. Everything needed to change, so the Roman authorities appointed officials and sent them throughout the conquered regions to establish the rule and reign of Rome. This was the root of the word “apostle,” the very word Jesus strategically used to describe the ones He chose to usher in a Kingdom culture on the earth. In writing to Corinth, the Apostle Paul gives us a clear path to identify true apostles.

For, I think, God has exhibited us apostles last of all, as men condemned to death; because we have become a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. We are fools for Christ sake, but you are prudent in Christ; we are weak, but you are strong; you are distinguished, but we are without honor. To this present hour we are both hungry and thirsty, and are poorly clothed, and are roughly treated, and are homeless; and we toil, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; when we are slandered, we try to conciliate; we have become as scum of the world, the dregs of all things, even until now.
(1 Corinthians 4:9-13)

If you are interested in becoming an apostle, I’ve extracted a set of job qualifications as follows:

1. Have you been put on display by God as men condemned to die?
2. Have you become a spectacle to the world, men and angels?
3. Are you a fool for Christ?
4. Are you weak?
5. Are you without honor?
6. Are you hungry and thirsty?
7. Are you poorly clothed?
8. Are you roughly treated?
9. Are you homeless?
10. Do you work extremely hard with your own hands?
11. Do you bless when you are criticized and abused?
12. Do you keep on going in spite of persecution?
13. Do you try to reconcile with the ones that lie about you?
14. Have you become as worthless scum of the world?

Pretty tough qualifications, wouldn’t you agree? For me, this brings to light scriptures like, “I’ve been crucified with Christ,” “Pick up your cross daily,” “Count the cost.” Being an apostle is definitely not as glamorous as some pretend it to be. Glorified “titles” seem to create a false identity that thrive on the accolades of men but miss the grace of God. However, a truly surrendered life receives praise from God. (Vs.5)  Now, if you skip down to verse 16, Paul writes:  “Therefore, I exhort you, be imitators of me.”

Wait! What???  That’s asking a lot Mr. Paul!

Jesus said it best as He gathered the ones He called apostles and related to them their true purpose and destiny.

But Jesus called them to Himself and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and great men exercise authority over them. It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and give His life a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:25-28)

Just my opinion, but probably most true apostles are hidden. They probably avoid the lime light and would never consider taking on a title. Probably, these who quietly serve would not even consider themselves to be apostles. To love and to serve is in the fiber of their being and they do it naturally and genuinely. They expect nothing in return. Quietly and effectively the culture changes.

So shall it be. Peace to you.

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The Art of Listening

“So take care how you listen…” (Luke 8:18)

I remember when our sons were young, they both overflowed with so much imagination and creativity. They continuously entertained us as make believe super heroes, adorned in elaborate costumes and speaking hilariously in these low but squeaky cartoon like voices. Their friends and acquaintances came to life inside their untainted imaginations as they carried on serious and profound conversations. We even found ourselves listening and joining in. Even today the whole family laughs together as we remember Fuffy the bear and Hanger the monkey soaring overhead, coming to our rescue in their magnificent flying machine. We cherish the memories and are somewhat befuddled at how fast time flies and how quickly young boys grow into men. In the midst of all their antics, I realize now my sons weren’t so much trying to impress us as they just longed for our full attention. It’s true though, the busyness of life robs us of those precious moments. Have you ever had a two year old put their two little hands on your face and turn your head so you will look at them and give them your full attention? What a picture that paints.

A few years back, in Austin, a homeless lady on the street corner caught my attention. I parked the truck and walked across the busy street to greet her. Obviously she had been attractive in her earlier years and was extremely intelligent. She offered up no kind of scam and just seemed grateful to have someone to talk to. I remembered asking her, “How in the world did you end up on the street?” That’s all it took, one simple question, and for the next hour I sat and listened to her story. Again I realized what a fine line it is between having a comfortable, successful life compared to finding yourself helpless, desperate, and barely surviving on the street. I’ve not seen her since but I’m often reminded of that encounter and what she said in the end. Sobbingly, through tear filled eyes, she said, “You are the only person that has ever taken the time to listen to me. I love you. Thank you so much!” I remember holding it together pretty good until I got back in the truck where I proceeded to totally loose it.

The missionary, Jim Elliot is quoted as saying, “Wherever you are, be all there.” I’ve learned that listening is a developed skill. I’m not always successful, but when I remember, I try to give people my full attention, like Jim says, “Be all there.” Probably the most important quality in friendship, ministry, parenting and life in general is listening. Sometimes, in a conversation, I find myself so busy preparing in my mind what I want to say that I’m not really listening to what the other person is saying. Sometimes I just zone out in my own imagination and all I hear is a faint blah, blah, blah. Sad but true. Help me Jesus! Have you ever wondered how this might relate to our relationship with the Lord?

A few years ago I was asked to teach at a home gathering of University students. The house was bursting at the seams and I so wanted to give them something substantial to practice and hold on to. Later Joel (the Pastor) and myself adopted the name Four Fifteen. In the world we eat and the result is we are full and satisfied. In the Kingdom of God, the more you eat spiritually the hungrier we stay. Just as a starting place I encouraged them to practice these disciplines for fifteen minutes each day, (1)PRAY…(2)STUDY THE BIBLE…(3)TALK TO SOMEONE ABOUT JESUS…(4)BE STILL AND LISTEN TO HOLY SPIRIT.

Surprisingly, listening generated the most feedback and the most questions. I do love this new generation of Christ followers! They are completely out of the box with no limits.  

However, on the flip side of this, when we pray, we correctly assume we have Our Father’s full and utmost attention. It’s true, the Lord is absolutely moved by our prayers! He listens, He cares, He responds, He loves, He guides, He protects, He provides! ASK! SEEK! KNOCK! There is no end. Need I say more? So now it’s up to us to provide Him the opportunity to speak. And when He does speak, we purpose ourselves to be all there, giving Him our full and undivided attention. It’s just such a reciprocal relationship, we worship, we pray, on our face we cry out to the Lord. In essence we are taking our little hands and gently turning Our Heavenly Father’s face toward us, saying “Daddy please pay attention to me!” In perfect form, He places His strong hands on our face to turn our face toward Him as He gently whispers and often times shouts, “I love you child!”

“When You said, “Seek My face,” my heart said to You, “Your face O Lord, I shall seek.”

(Psalms 27:8)