Doubting Thomas & Resurrection Faith

Anyone could be a Doubting Thomas. Imagine being holed up inside a house, fearful, confused and desperately seeking answers. What happened? Your leader, spiritual guide and closest friend was brutally tortured and executed. The word out on the street says they are searching for you and your friends. As you huddle together, you have to wonder; who will be next? 

Eleven frightened disciples followed Jesus faithfully until the cross. Could there be a Kingdom if the king was dead? Could there be miracles if the miracle worker disappeared? Could you offer sight to the blind, healing to the sick or hope for the poor if the one who made the promises ceased to exist?

Now Mary Magdalene and the other Mary come running from the tomb to claim they saw him -- alive!

“No way!” you say. “I heard his final words. I saw the spear thrust into his body. I saw him die! I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds for myself and place my hand into the wound on his side!”

Suddenly Jesus was standing there! “Peace be with you,” he said. As he spoke, he held out his hands to see and he showed his side. Most are filled with joy when seeing our Lord but not you. Then Jesus walks over and says: “Thomas, put your finger here in my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!” (from John 20:20-27)

What else can you say? “My Lord and my God! Please forgive me for doubting but I am so afraid!”

Jesus replies: “You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who haven’t seen me and believe anyway.” Wow! Jesus is alive! He’s reassuring everyone in the room, just like the old days, only different. Something has changed. You can feel it.

Then he said, “When I was with you before, I told you that everything written about me by Moses and the prophets and in the Psalms must all come true.” Then he opened their minds to understand these many Scriptures. (Luke 26:44-45)

Finally, you realize that Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection had a purpose and was predicted by scripture. After years of confusion while sitting at Christ’s feet, the teaching becomes clear. Then Jesus said: “With my authority, take this message of repentance to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘there is forgiveness of sins for all who turn to me.’ You are witnesses --” (Luke 26:47-48)

1. You’ve just experienced the miracle of knowing Christ is alive! You saw Him alive!
2. You are to take Christ’s message of forgiveness to everyone starting here in our community.
3. You can share the message with confidence because we are Christ’s living witnesses.

But what about those who are waiting outside? What if others do not believe us? You are so afraid!  Will they crucify you just like they did to Jesus? It’s one thing to believe; it’s another to face fear.

Then Jesus said: “And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.” (Luke 26:49)

           

There is the final answer! Did you catch it? God understands your fear and is sending help --

1. Jesus is alive and you just witnessed it… now believe it!
2. You are to extend Christ’s message of faith and hope to others.
3. Do not be afraid for the Holy Spirit will fill you with power from heaven!

Are you a Doubting Thomas? Are you still holed up, fearful, confused and desperately looking for answers and courage?

Hear the Good News!

Christ was dead! Christ is risen! Christ will come again! Easter is the promise that you will be filled with the power of God’s Holy Spirit!

Do not be afraid! Confidently open your doors and take Christ’s message of forgiveness and hope to all the nations. Christ is risen! Christ is risen, indeed!

Easter Faith on Monday

On the Monday following Easter, a business owner will have to lay-off an employee who has been with his company since the beginning. How will Christ's resurrection help him make critical decisions?

On the Monday following Easter, a minister and spouse will be asked to move to a remote country church more than two hours further away from elderly relatives dependent upon their care. How will Jesus' resurrection help them find needed answers?

On the Monday following Easter, you must wake up and wrestle with the unique challenges our world offers. How will Jesus Christ's resurrection help you face life's obstacles?

If celebrating Easter is to mean more than bunnies, brightly colored eggs and wearing new clothes, questions must be answered. The resurrection of Jesus Christ has to be more than just an annual story-time… doesn't it? The sinking of the luxury cruise ship "Titanic" is a compelling story as the recent movie demonstrates, but would you want to relive it every year?   

Maybe this is how Jesus followers felt as they removed a lifeless body from the cross and laid it in a borrowed tomb. For three short years their lives had meaning and purpose. Once, they were preparing for a "New Kingdom… a New World" and Jesus Christ would be their Messiah. Now, they were holed up like frightened rabbits, broken dreams lying in the dust at their feet. But soon there would be a dramatic change…

Early on Sunday morning, as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to see the tomb. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, because an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and rolled aside the stone and sat on it. His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint. Then the angel spoke to the women. "Don't be afraid!" he said. "I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He isn't here! He has been raised from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come, see where his body was lying. And now, go quickly and tell his disciples he has been raised from the dead, and he is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there. Remember, I have told you."          (Matthew 28:1-7)

Jesus was alive! The disciples could pick up their broken dreams and joyfully continue their preparations for a "New Kingdom… a New World." Christ was their Messiah after all. No longer frightened rabbits, the followers of Jesus would boldly launch a movement that would change the world. "Hear the Good News! Jesus Christ has defeated the forces of death and offers eternal life to all who believe."

For the business owner, the critical decisions must still be made but the living Christ gives him the compassion and wisdom to provide real help for his employee and friend.

The minister must move but church members begin visiting his parents offering help and support. Jesus Christ is alive and actively involving the faith community.

You can now wake up on Monday morning in the secure knowledge that you will never again face life's obstacles alone! A risen Jesus will give you much needed hope for the future.

Because Jesus is alive, Easter is no longer simply a story. It is a testimony of faith. Share this story with someone and ask him/her to join you in continuing to celebrate the resurrection of Christ next Sunday morning.

Remember that Jesus Christ is alive! Bet your eternal life on it!

Easter Prayer and "The King's Speech"

This afternoon, Mell and I watched and were deeply enthralled in, “The King’s Speech.” I know, I know, it’s not a real Easter type of movie but in a way it is.

I found it fascinating that the King was in line to come to the throne. He was born for it and supposedly prepared for it but he had one problem. He had a speech impediment and for someone who would literally be known for how he spoke, this was a huge problem.

If the King who was born to be King could not overcome his speech impediment problem, in all likelihood he would go down in history as an ineffective King or even have to give up his throne.

Here is my parallel to Easter. Just like the King we are born with a mission to serve Jesus Christ. We have hopefully been prepared for it but just like the king we all have a problem or two. It may not be a speech impediment but it’s a problem just the same. If we are not careful, it could turn out to be a huge problem.

If we who are born with a mission to serve Jesus Christ cannot overcome our problems, in all likelihood we will be ineffective in our witness for Christ or even walk away from our faith in frustration.

OK, so the King hires lots of speech experts to help him fix his problem but none of it seems to do any good. Some yell at him, some have him swallow marbles and do all sorts of weird things but none of it seems to work… until he meets Lionel.

OK, so we often try all sorts of things to find our mission or our happiness. We try various jobs, spending binges, wild parties but none of it seems to satisfy… until we meet Jesus.

Now at first, Lionel seems unable to help, in fact at times it seems like he’s made things worse.

Sometimes at first, our relationship with Jesus is a struggle; at times, it seems things are worse.

But over the months and years the relationship between the future King and Lionel strengthens until the moment comes when the King must be King and thanks to his hard work, persistence and the trust and ability of his friend Lionel, the King is able to carry out his duty when he is needed most.

Over the months and years the relationship between you and Jesus strengthens until the moment comes when you as a Christian must be a Christian where it counts and thanks to your hard work, persistence and trust in the ability of your friend Jesus, you are able to be a witness for Christ when it is need most.

Yes, the King was meant to be King but he had to be willing to overcome obstacles and accept a lot of help along the way.

Yes, you are meant to be a Christian witness but you have to be willing to overcome obstacles and accept a lot of help along the way.

Easter is here. You are meant to be here. You have been prepared for this but you’ve had a lot of help along the way. Jesus has been guiding you all along through the Holy Spirit and through the lives of others who have come in contact with you.

This Sunday morning people will come to Easter services at first because it’s the tradition but we can make it so much more. You have been prepared for this. You have overcome numerous obstacles to be where you are today.

Remember what happened and allow the power of God’s Holy Spirit to make the Easter story be transformed into so much more than a story… let the Easter story become Easter Faith.

Christ is alive and ready to work miracles in your life and in the lives of everyone who comes in contact with you or your church.

Easter morning is here…

But very early on Sunday morning the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. They found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. So they went in, but they didn’t find the body of the Lord Jesus. As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared to them, clothed in dazzling robes.

The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day.” 

Then they remembered that he had said this. So they rushed back from the tomb to tell his eleven disciples—and everyone else—what had happened. (Luke 24:1-9)

The time has come. Easter is here. The resurrected Christ is with you.

As the King gave his speech, his friend Lionel was protecting him, helping him focus providing helpful advice and encouragement along the way. At one point he said: “Give the speech as if you were talking to me, your friend.”

Wouldn’t it be great if you could picture Jesus, talking to you the same way? “Talk to others as if I were walking beside you and guiding you, your friend.”

Easter is here. The resurrected Christ will be with you.

Amen.

Dreams and Spectators

Several years ago, I had an eerie dream about a luxury cruise liner. I was a member of the crew. Standing on the deck near the bridge, you could see the passengers through the ornate glass doorways as they danced and ate to their hearts content. I watched my shipmates on the bridge as they scurried about.

Something, however, seemed strangely wrong. The talk circulating among the crew was about radio messages warning of possible icebergs. “The ship was moving dangerously fast,” one crew member remarked. The captain, partying with the passengers, wasn't too concerned. Disaster loomed, but what could I do? I was just a member of the crew? The dream ended with a sign over the bridge naming the ship -- "Titanic." 

Here is another scene. Imagine coming to Jerusalem for the Passover celebration. It is supposed to be a party but nobody seems to be having any fun! A prophet named Jesus triumphantly entered town last week at the head of a parade, but just a few days ago he was executed.

Everyone is in a foul mood. Rumors are circulating that Jesus body was stolen to make it look like a resurrection. Others claim to have seen Christ alive. The debate is hot and intense. Is Jesus the Messiah? What do you say? What do you do? Who can you believe?

Here is a more modern nightmare to consider. Violent crime is at an all-time high. Drug and alcohol abuse, spousal abuse, child abuse, teenage suicides and violence of every kind loom like icebergs directly in the path of common decency. Morality and ethics are discarded in our eager pursuit of success and pleasure. 

Three tragic dramas unfold before you. Here is the question: Are you merely a helpless spectator watching to see what happens next or is there another choice?

Paul laid out our responsibilities very clearly in a letter to Timothy, "I solemnly urge you: Preach the word of God. Be persistent, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching." (2 Tim. 4:1-2)

·         Don't watch the Titanic go down. Help someone to a lifeboat. Comfort the frightened. Be a witness to the fact that God is with us even in tragedy.

·         Don't watch Jesus' disciples as they enthusiastically tell the crowds, "Jesus is alive!" Join them as a witness to the Good News.

·         Don't complain about our modern day lack of morality. Become a witness to our society that clearly says, "Christ is alive and offers us another way to live!"

Before Holy Week and Easter fade into history remember this critical message. God never asked us to be spectators. We are called to preach, be persistent, be willing to gently correct if necessary and most of all encourage others with good teaching.

Take a moment to think about what you've read. Take out a piece of paper and write down ways to improve your witness within the community. Are there organizations or projects where you can volunteer? Is there a neighbor who could use a kind word or thoughtful deed? Do you know a teenager in need of comfort? 

Your willingness to be a witness may not save the "Titanic" but with God's guidance you could help someone to a lifeboat.

Well, what are you waiting for: the movie?!

Christ Crucified and Letters

During Holy Week we remember what Jesus endured on the last week of his earthly life. Why? Why did Jesus have to suffer and die in this this way? What does it really mean?

What follows are appropriate Scripture readings during the last hours of Christ’s life. In between are excerpts from letters received by our ministry. Each letter shares an example of suffering and anguish.

My hope is for the Scripture and the letters to provide, not easily digestible answers but something to slowly chew on and meditate over.

Why did Jesus have to suffer and die in this way? What does it really mean?

Jesus prayed, “Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will, not mine.” Then an angel from heaven appeared and strengthened him. (Luke 22:41-43)

           

“It has been 15 years since my first abortion. I have recently been coming to terms with my past and it scares me. I remember the first one pretty vividly. I remember the date, sights and sounds and the smell. The other two, I have no memory at all. I need help with forgiveness but it is a daily struggle.”

A servant girl noticed Peter in the firelight and began staring at him. Finally she said, “This man was one of Jesus’ followers!” Peter denied it. “Woman,” he said, “I don’t know the man.” (Luke 22:55-56)

“I am sitting here with tears streaming down my face, thankful to Jesus after hours of surfing the net and typing in the words ‘Christian & Divorce’ over and over again. I’ve been reading endless opinions (mostly condemnation and hopelessness) feeling that perhaps my best bet would be to drive my car over a bridge rather than face the rest of my life as a divorced Christian woman who left her 20 year marriage. I read about your divorce recovery and God caused a tiny glimmer of hope to rise up in me. I love the Lord with all my heart. When I originally left my husband of 20 years I was not thinking of divorce but things have escalated to a point of no return and the divorce is now final. I can't go back but emotionally, I can't go forward either. I am hurting so badly because like many Christians, I never believed this would happen to me. I just need to know that Jesus can take the ashes of my life and restore me. I want to believe that the grace of God can extend to even me. I have always taught others of this grace but now I question it for myself. Please pray for me.”

Jesus said on the cross, “Father, forgive these people, because they don’t know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34)

“I am the 33 year-old Kindergarten teacher who stumbled upon your website as I continued my struggle to develop my faith in God and Jesus. I asked you to pray that I would find my way to God and let Jesus into my heart. I told you of my struggles and conflicting thoughts and feelings and asked for help through prayer. Thanks to your website, I received at least a dozen responses. I never expected to have people write and try to help me. The support and advice given to me by complete strangers was nothing short of miraculous. When I sent my prayer request to you, my faith in God and mankind was at an all-time low. Being a Kindergarten teacher, when every day I try to instill positive moral values and beliefs in my kids and teach them the importance of being kind and polite to each other -- you can imagine the torment my soul was in. I am learning the value of "praying without ceasing," and I am slowly beginning to develop a relationship with God and Jesus. Thank you.”

One of the criminals hanging beside Jesus, scoffed, “So you’re the Messiah are you? Prove it by saving yourself – and us, too, while you’re at it!” But the other criminal protested, “Don’t you fear God even when you are dying? We deserve to die for our evil deeds, but this man hasn’t done anything wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

“I asked you to pray because I thought I had done things that could not be forgiven. Well, I want to thank every one of you that took the time to pray. I went to church and accepted Jesus as my personal Savior. Guess what? He forgave me. I feel so wonderful now. I went to church not even thinking about getting saved. We were in the middle of praise and worship and I cannot even tell you the song we were singing. It was like the room got quiet and I was sitting there arguing with myself. Then the most wonderful thing happened. I said one last time: ‘He will not forgive me.’ Then I heard a voice that said, ‘Yes I will.’ I never felt so light headed in all my life.”

Then Jesus shouted, “Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!” And with those words he breathed his last. (Luke 23:46)

Why did Jesus have to suffer and die this way? What does it really mean?

Jesus shouted: “Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!”

May we learn to do the same. Only then, can we truly appreciate Easter morning and Jesus’ resurrection.

Palm Sunday Prayer: A Bigger Picture

Prayers

Mission team in Jamaica

Palm Sunday starts our Holy Week

Pastors and Churches in the midst of leadership change

------------------------------

During this past week… a lot of important decisions were made by the Bishop and the District Superintendents of the Virginia Conference of the United Methodist Church. All week we participated in worship together, prayed together and finally made critical decisions together concerning our pastors and churches throughout Virginia.

Most pastors will not be moving and will be offered another year to continue their ministry where they are. Using what they have learned in the past to help their congregation move toward a future filled with God’s grace.

Most churches will not be receiving a new pastor so they are challenged within their stability to look for new opportunities to be the church in the midst of a hurting world.

Some pastors will be moving to another church and will leave one ministry behind to start anew.

Some churches will be saying good-bye to one pastor and will be looking toward a new pastor and a new future.

Most pastors will be very happy about the decisions made. Some will not.

Most church members will be very happy about the decisions made. Some will not.

On a more personal level, as I drove home, I knew that overall many of our pastors and church members will be pleased.

I also knew that some of our decisions would not be popular and that a few of our pastors and church members will not be pleased.

But, I have the opportunity to see a bigger picture.

Overall, I know we made the best decisions that could be made under difficult circumstances. I will face the smiles and the tears confident that we are creating the best possible opportunities for our pastors and our churches to offer the grace of Jesus Christ to our community and to our world.

Why am I writing this?

Because this morning as I read what all of us will be using today as we prepare our churches for Palm Sunday, I saw the Scripture with new eyes. I was reading the same verses but because of what I experienced, I understood what happened in a different way.

Jesus knew.

Jesus knew what was going to happen next.

He knew that he would receive the adulation of the crowd as he rode into Jerusalem. He knew the same crowd now singing “Hosanna!” would soon be shouting, “Crucify him!”

Here is the story from the Gospel of Luke.

As he rode along, the crowds spread out their garments on the road ahead of him. When they reached the place where the road started down the Mount of Olives, all of his followers began to shout and sing as they walked along, praising God for all the wonderful miracles they had seen. 

“Blessings on the King who comes in the name of the LORD!

Peace in heaven, and glory in highest heaven!”

But some of the Pharisees among the crowd said, “Teacher, rebuke your followers for saying things like that!”

He replied, “If they kept quiet, the stones along the road would burst into cheers!”

But as they came closer to Jerusalem and Jesus saw the city ahead, he began to weep. (Luke 19:36-41)

In the midst of the adulation, Jesus wept because he knew what was coming.

So, why did he do it?

Because he too, saw a bigger picture and believed in the decisions that were made. Jesus knew that Palm Sunday, the last supper, the agonizing prayer in the garden, the betrayal, the arrest, the trials, the whipping, the crown of thorns, the carrying of the cross through the city streets, the nailing of his hands and feet to the wood, the agonizing hours of not only physical pain but the emotional agony of being abandoned all leading to a seemingly senseless death.

He knew. Jesus continued to see a bigger picture.

Today, this week, I more fully understand the depth of what Jesus must have endured during the final hours of his life.

So, I now more fully understand why Jesus wept.

I also more fully understand why Jesus did it? He knew but he did it anyway.

Jesus endured the agony of the cross because he knew resurrection would not be far behind.

Seeing the bigger picture would cause Jesus to weep in the midst of Palm Sunday.

Seeing the bigger picture would allow Jesus to endure the cross on Friday.

Seeing the bigger picture allows me to celebrate the joy of pastors and churches.

Seeing the bigger picture will cause me to weep in the midst of pastors and churches who will struggle.

Here is the biggest picture of all.

In the midst of our joys and yes, our pain Jesus Christ is working miracles.

So, at times we celebrate over Palm Sunday.

At times we weep over Good Friday.

In the end, we anticipate – Easter Sunday.

Next Sunday morning, just like we do every year, we will all remember that our celebrations and our joys all serve a greater purpose.

Easter Sunday makes it all worthwhile.

Jesus knew so in the midst of the celebration, he wept.

Jesus knew so in the midst of the cross, he endured.

Jesus knew so on Easter Sunday – he arose.

This morning we sing Hosanna but we also prepare to weep.

Next Sunday we celebrate what it really means to be a Christian.

As I pray this morning, I pray as someone who sees a bigger picture.

As I pray this morning, I pray you will join me in lifting up pastors and churches as they prepare for the future.

As I pray this morning, I celebrate and weep over the decisions that were made.

As I pray this morning, I am filled with eager anticipation of the Easter that is promised for us all.

May God fill you with the power and grace of the Holy Spirit so that Palm Sunday and Good Friday all lead to a glorious Easter morning.

We Are Hokies: Remembering April 16, 2007

The groom wrote his own vows expressing his love by saying, “My anticipation for our marriage is similar to that of Virginia Tech fans eagerly awaiting their football team to enter the stadium. “Enter Sandman” is blaring in the background as the anticipation builds. The music gets louder, the fans begin screaming and jumping up and down waiting for their beloved team. As the players run onto the field the crowd erupts with enthusiastic cheers of “Go Hokies!” That is the excitement I feel getting married to you.”

Wow! I wanted to jump up and down just hearing him.

Why? I too am a proud graduate of Virginia Tech and just like other “Hokies,” we love our school. So, what does an old “Hokie” remember?

• The drill field. On frequently foggy mornings people eerily appear out of nowhere.
• A stadium on a cold, windy mountain where sitting through games is a test of endurance.
• The Duck Pond surrounded by nature's beauty where lovers meet and romance blooms.
• Dormitories grouped in fours or quads. Outside, you could toss Frisbees, while listening to loud music blasting from windows.
• School rings designed by each graduating class. Mine features an engraved door symbolizing the infamous "six-inch" rule requiring open doors whenever dates visited our room.

April 16, 2007 was supposed to be much like any other day at Virginia Tech. Nearing the end of the semester; most were preoccupied with upcoming papers and exams. Few knew about two students killed in what local police believed was a domestic disturbance at Ambler Johnston dormitory. But news reports around the world soon reported the grim news. Before the day was through, thirty-two people and the gunman lay dead along with others wounded.

A fellow pastor wrote: “I was in Roanoke, visiting a young boy at the hospital, when my cell phone buzzed. It was a friend, asking if I had talked to my daughter, Jacqueline, who is a student at Virginia Tech. He told me there had been a shooting at VT and one person was dead. I called my daughter to let her know and she told me she was already on the way back to school.”

“I finished the hospital visit and headed home. A report came over the radio that at least 20 students had been killed. I had to pull over at a gas station to sit a few minutes and compose myself. I called my daughter again on her cell phone. She heard the report, too, and had turned around to come back home. By the time I got home, the phone at the church office was ringing non-stop.”

“It was a rough first year, but my daughter still loves Virginia Tech, and so do I. My heart continues to pour out to all of those touched by this tragedy.” Rev. Anthony Busic

There were heroes. Ryan Clark, the resident advisor who lost his life trying to help a fellow student. Professor Librescu, a holocaust survivor who held the door closed so his students could jump out second story windows and escape. There were wounded students who managed to block the door to their classroom and prevent the shooter from reentering the room.

Who can ever forget the pictures of candlelight vigils or groups of students clinging to each other, crying and praying? There was Nikki Giovanni's moving speech as she emphasized over and over again: "We are Virginia Tech. We are sad today and we will be sad for quite awhile. We are moving on, we are embracing our mourning. We are Virginia Tech. We are the Hokies. We will prevail. We will prevail."

Now what? How should we remember this day? What can we do as time continues to march on?

1. We continue to pray for the victims and their families.
2. We look for opportunities to help others who are victims of violence.
3. We continue to learn from mistakes made on that horrible day.
4. We become more involved with our young people and look for ways to show we care.
5. We are still God's church: We pray, mourn, inspire, teach and witness God's grace.

Jesus last words in the Gospel of Matthew 28 were, "Surely I am with you always to the very end of the age." God is saying to us: Surely I am with you when you are down and when you are up; when you are torn and when you are whole. Surely I am with you when lives are cut short senselessly. Surely I am with you in the midst of tragedy and I will offer comfort and hope. Surely I am with you! Surely! Surely!

Nikki Giavanni went on to say: "The Hokie Nation embraces our own and reaches out with open heart and hands to those who offer their hearts and minds. We are strong, and brave, and innocent, and unafraid. We are better than we think and not quite what we want to be. We are alive to the imaginations and the possibilities. We will continue to invent the future through our blood and tears and through all our sadness. We are the Hokies. We will prevail. We are Virginia Tech."

10 Questions of Faith and Ministry

People often ask: “Larry am I doing what God wants me to do?”

I don’t know but I do know what helps me.

I use ten questions to regularly guide my ministry and spiritual life. Recently, I shared them in church and several people asked me for a copy. (Well, actually it was just mom but she seemed genuinely interested.) So maybe you will find the questions helpful too. Warning: Don’t think you have to check off everything or feel guilty about what you are not doing. These questions are simply meant to be a practical guide for you and your church.

1. Do I pray regularly? It sounds so simple yet nothing happens without prayer. When I am struggling it is often because my prayer life is not what it should be. Does your church emphasize prayer as a regular and critical part of their ministry? Prayer is always step one.   
2. Do you have a vision? It is difficult to shoot an arrow if there is no target. So how can you function without a vision from God and goals to help you fulfill the vision? What talents and resources are available to you… to your church? What is needed in your community?
3. Are we growing in faith? Spiritual formation is a continuous journey of learning, experiencing and sharing the Word of God. Young and old are discovering a passion for God’s Word but don’t always know where to begin. Bible studies and small groups play a key role in spiritual development. Take a class, participate in Sunday school or join a prayer group.
4. Are you caring for others? What are you doing to maintain loving contact with friends and family? Do you regularly offer encouragement? What is your church doing to care for each other? Most offer shepherd groups, support ministries or prayer chains. Perhaps you can help. The simple gesture of sending a card is a ministry that often works miracles.
5. Do you cultivate friendships beyond your own comfortable group? If you don’t… why not? Maybe you need to get a life! Just kidding but it’s important that you reach beyond your comfort level and seek to understand other age groups and cultures. You will learn a lot and enjoy an exciting new experience. Young and old, Spanish or Korean, black or white alike have so much to offer but they all need our love and respect.
6. Am I involved in a community ministry? Is there a Habitat for Humanity near by? Am I doing anything for children at Christmas? Are groups fixing broken down houses for people too poor or sickly to make their own repairs? Is there a “Meals on Wheels?” Every community has needs? To meet those needs God has given us all unique talents. What am I doing with mine? It’s usually not that hard to discover what’s needed and ask: “How can I help?”
7. Are you a witness? Do people really know what you believe? How can you talk about God without others feeling intimidated or offended? Do coworkers look upon you as someone they can trust? Will you listen to their concerns with respect and love? Are you praying for opportunities to share your faith? My favorite definition for witness: “is the willingness to make a sincere and honest attempt to be a friend in the name of God.”
8. What about men?  61% of those not attending church are men. The most successful ministries that reach men are: mission trips, building projects and sports. Many men that participate in these ministries become more involved with their church.
9. Are we reaching single adults? More than 56% of the unchurched population is single. Surveys indicate that many single adults believe in God but feel isolated from the church. We can start recognizing their needs by changing our language. Family night supper implies that you must be married to attend. Instead call it a “Fellowship and Fun” supper. Ministry ideas could include divorce and grief recovery workshops or single parent programs.
10. What about children? Parents are struggling to provide a wholesome environment for their children. How are you helping? It starts at Sunday school but there are other ideas such as: After-School Ministry, Parent’s Day Out or M.O.P.S. (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers) 

I can’t possibly do all that! True but you can do something. My prayer is for these questions to stimulate your thinking. Then, let God guide you. We face a challenge to reach out in ministry in creative ways. The main thing is to be open-minded, be in prayer and celebrate the victories.

In the last few years, I have witnessed many people inspired by God to become involved in ministry. It has been the biggest joy of my life. The excitement of doing something worthwhile for God is more contagious than a flu epidemic and the results are far more lasting and satisfying. So, what are you waiting for? Find your ministry today and may God be with you!

What's Wrong With My Parrot?

Chuck Swindol wrote about a lonely lady who went to the pet store to buy a parrot for companionship. She was assured that once the bird began to feel at home, she would have a friend for years. A week later she returned to complain that her bird was not talking. “Did you buy a mirror?” asked the owner. “When parrots look at themselves, words flow.” Hoping that would help she bought a mirror.

A few days later, she returned and complained that the bird still hadn’t uttered a peep. “Well, did you get a ladder? Parrots love to climb and need to feel comfortable.” She bought a ladder. The end of the next week, she returned grim and disappointed: Same complaint – no parrot talk. “Well, have you bought a swing?” She attached a swing.

Three days later she came storming in, slammed the door of the shop and demanded to speak to the owner. “He died this afternoon!” she blurted out.

“Died! Died? Did he ever talk?” asked the owner.

“Yes,” she responded. “He said just a few words as he breathed his last. ‘Don’t they sell any food at that store?’”

Swindol added, “We live in a day of religious mirrors, ladders and swings, where the majority of hungry souls are given empty promises and sold a bill of goods. There are lots of trinkets and gimmicks but no food… no solid substance to sustain life.” It’s like the once-famous commercial featuring a sweet little old lady standing at a fast food counter holding two buns and asking: “Where’s the beef?”

Could it be time to ask of yourself and the church you serve: “Where’s the beef?”

The Bible says it even better: “How sweet are your words to my taste; they are sweeter than honey. Your commandments give me understanding; no wonder I hate every false way of life. Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path.” (Psalm 119: 103-105) Look at the promises:

1.      How sweet are your words… God’s Word offers hope and forgiveness.

2.      They are sweeter than honey… God’s Word adds purpose and importance to our lives.

3.      Your commandments give me understanding… God’s word teaches right from wrong.

4.      I hate every false way… God’s Word gives you the desire to do what is right.

5.      Your word is a lamp for my feet… God’s Word provides a sense of direction.

6.      A light for my path… God’s Word is a source of encouragement during tough times.

Recently, I had the honor of attending a Bible study graduation for a group of high school students. The best part was watching each student stand up and participate in the service. You could positively feel their excitement. Over the past nine months these young people met every Wednesday evening and together they studied nearly eighty per cent of the Bible. Isn’t that amazing? Seeing their enthusiasm and energy inspired me to renew my own commitment as a pastor and writer. How are you doing?

U  Have you been feeding the “parrot?” What are you doing to strengthen your spiritual life? When is the last time you participated in a good Bible study?

U  “Where is the beef?” Is your spiritual life challenging? Does your church strive to teach God’s Word? What can you do to help? Are you praying for your church?

U  Are you sharing your food? Do you serve a ministry that is reaching out to the community? Here is a good question: If someone had a problem, would they come to you for help?

Somewhere… maybe just down the street, there is a heavenly “store” waiting to serve you. You will find a few mirrors. They may offer you a ladder or a swing but you don’t notice them right away because they are off to the side. What you immediately discover is the main aisle. Like a magnet, you are drawn to the bright lights and colorful displays but once you enter you can’t help but notice the mouth-watering variety of delicious food: appetizers, vegetables, grains and yes: “beef… lots of beef.”

Prayer for Maturing Faith

Usually at this time of year, I’m involved with activities centered on Lent but as I helped my wife, Mell care for her mom, and visited several others who were dealing with age related issues… the struggles that go along with getting older has weighed on my mind. Several weeks ago I found this devotion and prayer written by Joni Eareckson Tada.

In fact much of the wisdom in the prayer would serve us well as we try to live as disciples of Christ.

A Prayer for Maturing Faith

-- shared by Joni Eareckson Tada

Scripture: “Do not say, 'Why were the old days better than these?” For it is not wise to ask such questions. Wisdom, like an inheritance, is a good thing and benefits those who see the sun. Wisdom is a shelter.'" (Ecclesiastes 7:10-12)

My mother used to say, “Getting old ain’t for sissies.” She was right. I always thought it would be a cinch to grow old gracefully; then I crested fifty and found out differently! That’s why the following prayer written by an anonymous saint from the seventeenth century means so much to me:

Lord, you know better than I know myself that I am growing older and will someday be old. Keep me from the fatal habit of thinking I must say something on every subject and on every occasion. Release me from craving to straighten out everybody’s affairs.

Make me thoughtful but not moody: Helpful, but not bossy with my vast store of wisdom.

It seems a pity not to use it all but you know Lord that I want a few friends to remain at the end…

Keep my mind free from the recital of endless details; give me wings to get to the point swiftly.

Seal my lips on my aches and pains. They are increasing and love of rehearsing them is becoming sweeter as the years go by. I dare not ask for grace enough to enjoy the tales of others’ pains but help me to endure them with patience.

I dare not ask for improved memory but for a growing humility and a lessening cocksureness when my memory seems to clash with the memories of others.

Teach me the glorious lesson that occasionally I may be mistaken.

Keep me reasonably sweet; I do not want to be a sour old person – some of them are so hard to live with and each one a crowning work of the devil.

Give me the ability to see good things in unexpected places, and talents in unexpected people. And, give me, O Lord, the grace to tell them so.

Amen.

I don’t know about you but as I pray this prayer, I learn a little bit about aging but I learn a lot more about maturing with grace.

Whether you are old or young, there is much wisdom in this prayer. May God give me the humility to pray it regularly and the courage to live it out.