Telling Others

John 15:27 says, "And you must tell others about me because you have been with me from the beginning." This was the words of Jesus to His disciples. They were to tell others what they had experienced in the presence of Christ. They had been with Him from the beginning and they were to tell others all about it. They were to talk about the things they had seen and heard for themselves.

What a challenge for us! To tell others what we have seen, heard and experienced for ourselves. May we talk about His love. May we tell about His grace. May we speak about how He has changed our lives. This message of redemption and forgiveness has been told for generations. The challenge for each of us is to continue to carry the torch.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Mary

The Christmas season is here! What a great time of the year. Take a moment and think back to that first Christmas. Imagine what it must have been like for Mary when the Angel Gabriel arrived in her little obscure town of Nazareth in Galilee. Think about how awe-struck she must have been when the Angel addressed her. Let us take a moment and ease drop on a part of his conversation with Mary: "Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!" (Luke 1:28) But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. (Luke 1:29) Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. (Luke 1:30)

I can only imagine how afraid Mary was. She suddenly found herself at the center of God's redemptive plan for mankind. She found herself at the center of all that God was about to do in "the fullness of time." This is what the nation of Israel had been waiting for since its very conception. This was going to be the beginning of the fulfillment of the promise that God made in the Garden of Eden that there would be a champion from the seed of woman. Genesis 3:15 "And I will put enmity Between you and the woman, And between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, And you shall bruise His heel." This is what the patriarchs had believed in and what the prophets spoke about, and, Mary finds herself in the middle of this great salvation plan.

Is this not how God still operates today? He takes ordinary people (the Mary's) and He uses them to bring about His great plan. God wants to take you and place you at the center of all that He is doing. Do not be afraid. Ponder what He is doing around you and say like Mary said, "I am the Lord's servant" (vs. 38).

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Great Deals

Everyone loves a great deal. Many people rise early in the morning on the day after Thanksgiving with the thought of finding a good deal. Some wait in line's for hours in the wee hours of the morning just to be one of the first people in the store to get a "great deal." It is amusing to watch the evening news the day after thanksgiving as they show the video clips of people rushing into the store as the doors open early. By nature, most of us love a great deal. It is just a part of who we are.

Think about the great deal God the Father offers us. He offers freedom to those who are bond. He offers peace to the troubled heart. Joy to the saddened. Forgiveness for the guilty. Strength for the weak. He offers eternal life. This is the deal of a life-time. I am grateful I found this great deal, or should I say, He found me.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Thankfulness

Thanksgiving is a great holiday. A time when all of us take the time to think upon the blessings we all have. As Christians, we have a lot to be thankful for. Family, friends, health, life, work, salvation, forgiveness, mercy, and the list can go on and on. I am reminded what Paul said to the Church at Thessalonica, "In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."

"In everything," that is, all things, in every circumstance give thanks. In all situations, yes, the bad and the good, give thanks! Lord, help us, that is me, learn to live with a heart of gratefulness. Help us to see your hand in all things that come our way. We can give thanks because your promise is, "and all things work together for good" for every believer. What a great promise!

May thanksgiving simply not be a holiday, may it be a way of living for each of us. Jesus, when I am tempted to grumble help me to be reminded that you have called me and placed your hand upon me. When I am tempted to focus only on the negative, help me to refocus my attention on the good. For you are good and your mercies are new every morning and great is your faithfulness.

Take the time today to list a few things you are thankful for and tell someone about it. Express your thankfulness!

This is today,

Pastor Gary

The Word

The Word of God is always a source of strength. If you need guidance, comfort, direction, hope, encouragement (and the list goes on and on), whatever your need or circumstance is, the Word of God is your place to go.

A great verse for today is found in 2 Chronicles 16:9 (NIV) "For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him." May you find strength and encouragement in this verse today. The following is a quote I read recently, I actually do not know the author but may you find encouragement in this thought today:

HIS STRENGTH IS PERFECT. God knows how we are doing at all times. He knows when we are strong and when our strength begins to falter. God created a special niche for us to fill. He wants us to go for the long haul and fulfill our mission. He needs us to serve right where He placed us. Therefore, He will give us the strength we need to make it through. With His strength, we can go all the way to the end and complete His goal.

Allow the truth of this to sink deep into you spirit. May you feel the perfect strength of God with you today. Now go out and accomplish His great design for your life!

This is today,

Pastor Gary

It's A Small Miracle

I am trying to learn how to "de-stress" and this is not as simple as it sounds. The teachings of Jesus talk a lot about "de-stressing" by using words like, "worry not," "take my yoke," "learn of me," "have faith in God," "listen," etc. However, the other day the Holy Spirit showed me something in my life that would help me "de-stress." I was pondering the idea of learning to live more stress free and thinking of what the Word had to say and also some other good books I have read lately and then suddenly the Holy Spirit showed me something about myself.

He showed me, that I have always been in a hurry about things. I want things done quick. I want to be the first one to finish the project. I can remember as a kid in elementary school, running the mile in P.E., I had to be first. Then the Holy Spirit turned my attention to the way I drive my vehicle. The Holy Spirit began to speak to me about my driving. He showed me I always have to be in a hurry in my driving, almost never going the speed limit, but driving on grace! I believe the Holy Spirit told me that if I am going to learn to "de-stress" then I have to learn to slow down in my driving. Now this may sound simple to you or even silly, and it even may be; however, for me it may actually be something profound.

The small miracle is, "I did it for a whole 320 mile trip." I did not speed, even though other cars were zipping past me (I felt tempted to chase them down, but I did not). It was not so much how quick I could get there, it was "how could I learn to prioritize my life and enjoy the journey" as I traveled. What I found out is, it really did not bother me, and I actually felt more relaxed, and, it only took me about 15 or 20 minutes longer.

Today, I found myself not getting frustrated in the traffic, not feeling rushed, and thinking, "it is okay not to be the lead car in the pack." Now I am looking for the "big miracle" and that is, for this not to be the rule just for yesterday, but for everyday.

Ask the Lord to show you what simple things can you do to "de-stress" your life?

This is today,

Pastor Gary

At Home

In my devotional time I was reading in the book of Ephesians, and what a powerful book it is. I was reading out of a new bible I received in the mail a few weeks ago. The translation is called "Recovery Version." I don't know a whole lot about it, however, I like how it translates the first part of chapter 3 verse 17. It says, "That Christ may make His home in your hearts through faith ..." What a great thought! Christ at home in my heart.

When I think of being at home I think of being comfortable, being at ease. I think of rest. The thought hit me, "Is Jesus at home in my heart?" Then I thought, "How can I make Him at Home in my life, even to a greater degree then He is now?"

It takes me inviting Him to be at home. When I think of this, I think of Lordship. Lord of everything, that is, master, the one who is in control. Lord, my prayer is, I want you to be at home in me. I don't simply want it to be some spiritual quest. I desire it to be a reality. To feel your presence. To know your will. To feel your heartbeat. This is the journey I seek!

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Love Believes

The Apostle Paul in his letter to the Corinthian Church gives a wonderful description of love. We know this chapter as the "love chapter." It is I Corinthians 13. Paul says, "without love", our actions are simply like clanging cymbals. In other words, just a bunch of noise. When I read this description of love it gives me a goal to reach towards. The love I am to show others. One particular description of love is, "it believes all things."

What does Paul mean when he says, "love believes all things"? It means that this type of love believes the best and does not assume the worse. Wow! It believes the best! In other words, it does not jump to a negative conclusion automatically. It gives the other person the benefit of the doubt. How contrary is this God-type love to the love that is so often demonstrated by others? How do I find myself not loving with a love that "believes all things"? This is tuff stuff, however, it is a goal worth striving for and mastering.

I want to give you a personal challenge to take time today to ask the Holy Spirit to cultivate a love in you that chooses to believe the best in people instead of assuming the worse. Ask God to forgive you when you have jumped to conclusions that were not too accurate. My prayer is "Lord, I want to love others like you ask me to. I want a love that "believes all things," that is, that believes the best and refuses to jump to conclusions. Father, thank you for loving me this way. Thank you for seeing what I can become in Christ. Now help me to see others, not for what they are right now, but for whom they can become in your Son, Jesus. Lord, I thank you because your Holy Spirit will enable me to love the way you want me to love others." As we do this, others will see "our good deeds and glorify our Father who is in heaven."

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Psycho-Cybernetics

I just finished reading a book titled, "Psycho-Cybernetics." It sounds crazy and way out there doesn't it? However, it is not. Yes, it is a book about Psychology and more specifically how our thoughts affect everything we do. There were a lot of principles in the book that actually have a biblical foundation. The Word of God has a lot to say about our thought life.

The Word is emphatic about calling us, believers in Jesus Christ, "conquerors", actually it says, we are "more than conquerors." It is a stated fact! You, yes you (the one reading this blog), are more than a conqueror. However, we must be convinced of this in our mind, in our thought life, before we will ever see it actualized in our life.

The book had a lot to say about the auto mechanism of our sub conscious. This can be programed as a success mechanism or a failure mechanism. For many it is filled with negative thoughts about life, ourselves, and others; therefore, many are filled with thoughts of "I can't" or "there is no way" or "that is impossible." However, if we can make our auto mechanism in our sub conscious become a "success mechanism" (negative thoughts are replaced with positive thoughts) then we can begin to see ourselves doing great things; suddenly the impossible becomes possible. We begin to see our potential instead of road blocks.

The Good News is, as believers we can do this because we have the power of the Holy Spirit living in our lives. We have the Word of God to tell us who we are and how we should think. "Think on these things" said the Apostle Paul.

May our prayer today be, "Lord, help me to see the potential, the possibilities, the great adventure you have laid out before me. Lord, help me not to define myself by my past disappointments or failure. Help me to see who I am in you today." Go out and conquer the world!

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Community

I just finished reading a book titled: "Everybody's Normal Until You Get to Know Them" by Ortberg. I liked the title because it is so true of all of us. We all have our little hang ups but the enemy is so good at making us feel like we are the only one's with such issue's. Now understand, this is not to suggest that we are simply to accept our short comings and never work on them. No, not in deed, we are to face them and, by the grace of God and the blood of His Son, deal with those "flaws" in our character. However, do not allow the enemy to make you feel isolated by making you feel like, everyone else must be normal except me.

The premise of the book is "community," living in community with others. We definitely need each other and all of us need a few who are closer than others to help us along the way. God has brought just the right people into your path. He has brought them to you for your success and not failure. They may be a spouse, a brother or sister, a mentor, a friend. We all have many acquaintances, and these are all good people, but we all need one or two who are closer then any another, a true friend, one we can tell all of our stuff too and not worry about them judging us or sharing with others. Instead of judging, they will pray with us and together, with you, grow, mend, and mature in Christ.

The Apostle Paul prayed, "that I might know Him, and the power of His resurrection ..." What a noble prayer! May you and I set our sights on such a lofty goal, to "know Him, to Know His resurrection power."

This is today,

Pastor Gary

The Goodness of God

Not to overdo the phrase that people have been saying for years now but it is so true, "God is good all the time and all the time God is good." To be surrounded by great family and wonderful friends makes life good. God's faithfulness is evident in everyday life. Sure, there are challenges; and yes, there are still crises but to stop and to take a deep breath gives a wonderful perspective.

Be sure to stop to smell the roses and give God thanks.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Be Strong in the Lord

These are the words of the Apostle Paul to the church at Ephesus. "Be strong in the Lord, and the power of His might." I was reading a different translation this morning (The Recovery Edition) and it says, "Finally, be empowered in the Lord and in the might of His strength." We need to be empowered in the Lord. It is His strength that we need. I am reading a book titled, "Everyone is normal Until you get to know them" and it is talking about community. One section speaks about how God the Father and God the Son and God the Spirit are all one. Jesus said, "I and the Father are one." Community! We have been invited to take part in community with God through His Son Christ. A part of this relationship is learning to be empowered in the Lord. Learning to walk in His power and His anointing.

When you stop and think about it, it is really exciting. The God of the universe desires fellowship with you and me so that we can walk and live in His power. This is power to be who He has designed us to be. This is power to "stand against the wiles of the devil." This is power to fight the spiritual battles of living in a fallen world.

My prayer today is, "Lord, I want to be empowered in the Lord." "I want to learn to be strong in the Lord and the power of His might." May you take every step with a greater consciousness, a greater awareness, of the empowering grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. Ask God to help you learn to be "strong in the Lord!"

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Psalm 3

Wednesday Night I ministered from Psalm 3. This Psalm is believed to have been composed when David was going through the crises of him leaving Jerusalem. We all have crises in our lives. Life is filled with such times. As you read Psalm 3 you are allowed to see as David struggles with the situation at hand and in the midst of it all he turns to the Lord.

Verses 5 and 6 are powerful! "I lay down and slept, I woke up in safety, for the Lord was watching over me. 6 I am not afraid of ten thousand enemies who surround me on every side" (nlt).

How was David able to do this, especially considering the crises he was going through? The answer is found in the fact that he knew the Lord was watching over Him. This knowledge gave David the confidence he needed going through this tough time in his life. Knowledge is power, and especially Divine Revelation. What you notice in this Psalm is, this confidence that David exhibited flowed out of the reality of the knowledge of knowing "the Lord is watching over me."

My prayer for you and myself today is, Lord fill us, your people, with this knowledge, the revelation of knowing you are watching over us; and, may it not be simply be a book knowledge. May we know it deep in our spirit so that we may live with such confidence. Great things are ahead of those who live with such confidence and purpose.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Satisfied

This is often a place which alludes many people. That is, reaching a place where they are satisfied. Reaching a place of contentment. Reaching a place where a person is okay with where they are. We live in a culture that is always striving for more, as if it is chasing the wind. We are bombarded with images on the T.V. and billboards that always advertise things we don't have and society says we need to have.

Proverbs 6:9 says, (nlt) "Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you don't have. Just dreaming about nice things is meaningless; it is like chasing the wind."

"Enjoy what you do have" is wonderful advice. Take the time to smell the roses. Take the time and realize your garden is green and enjoy what God has given to you; for, He has blessed you tremendously. Notice the next little piece of advice, "rather than desiring what you don't have." It sounds like wasted time doesn't it, but how many of us have wasted the precious time we do have "desiring what we don't have." Time is short! Jesus is coming again for His bride or our lives here are short lived, so enjoy what God has given to you today. Stop pining about what you don't have and start enjoying what you do have.

Reach that place in Him, Jesus, where you can be satisfied with your lot in life. Pursue Him with all of your heart and He will fill you with a satisfied life. My prayer today is, "Lord, help me to stop, smell the roses and enjoy the blessings you have given to me and my family."

This is today,

Pastor Gary

God is Faithful

God is always there! His faithfulness is a part of who He is. It is a part of His Nature! Faithfulness! You see His faithfulness all around you. He causes the sun to rise in the east and set in the west every day. The moon comes and goes in its season. The seasons of the year come around like clock work. The stars shine every night. All of these things speak to us of the faithfulness of God.

Be encouraged today, just as sure as the sun arose in the east, just as sure as the stars will shine in the night sky, so our God is there for you. He knows exactly what you need! He knows exactly how you feel. He is watching over you with His unfailing goodness. Isn't God wonderful? Yes, He is ... begin to orientate your thoughts on Him. Begin to look to Him ... His Word ... His hand in all of creation. Allow the thought of His faithfulness to cause you to feel the security of His goodness and love. All is well because God is faithful.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Growing in Wisdom

Psalm 90:12 declares: "Teach us to make the most of our time, so that we may grow in wisdom." Time is something we all have the same of. Everyone has the same 24 hours in a day and 7 days every week. No one ever gets 26 hours in a day. Sometimes it would be nice but we can't have, and probably don't need it either. The difference then must lie in what one does with the same 24 hours in a day.

The prayer the Psalmist prays is a very practical prayer, "Lord, teach us to make the most of our time ..." Lord, help us make every minute count! Lord, help us to be careful how we spend our time!

Have you ever simply stopped and taken an evaluation of how you spend your time? I think we would be amazed at how much time we allow to slip away. Now, notice the reason the Psalmist gives for his prayer, "so that we may grow in wisdom." Wisdom! So often we think of wisdom as only applying to others or people who have lived a long time. However, wisdom is something we should all seek. If Knowledge is power then wisdom is the ability to apply the knowledge you do have. Ask God to help you make the most of your time and give yourself to the pursuit of wisdom. Not just any wisdom, but Godly wisdom.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Jesus Speaks to the Heart of the Disciples

Luke 18:1 in the New Living Translation says, "One day Jesus told His disciples a story to illustrate their need for constant prayer and to show them that they must never give up." Jesus knew what was ahead for the disciples. Jesus understood the path before them was going to be very difficult; and, He was preparing them for the time when He would leave but would send them the Comfortor.

Jesus understood the importance of the disciples knowing how to persist in prayer. Isn't that what prayer is sometimes? Persistence! Pushing your way through what seems to be silence. The illustration that Jesus used was not only to demonstrate to them the importance of constant prayer, but to "show them that they must never give up."

We are prone to quitting, especially when it comes to the spiritual disciplines. Maybe, Jesus understood our nature better then we ourselves do? Another verse says, the "spirit is willing but the flesh is weak."

What I hear in the words of Jesus is, "the way may become difficult, you may pray and feel like your prayers are not being heard, you may feel like you are between a rock and a hard place." And He continues to say, "but keep on praying, keep on believing, and never give up.!"

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Prayer

I have just finished reading a book by Philip Yancey titled, "PRAYER: Does It Really Make Any Difference?" and it was a very interesting read. I only underlined one sentence in the whole book, which is very unusual for me. I usually mark books up that I read. The part I underlined said, "Prayer means keeping company with God who is already present" (p. 315).

I like that! Prayer is keeping company with God. When I think of keeping company I think of sitting in the living room or around the dinner table and just enjoying the conversation at hand. I think of enjoying the company of old friends. Getting caught up on what has been happening and telling stories of what is going on now. I think of being comfortable enough to simply talk about issues without the fear of being judged or cast aside.

Isn't it great to know we do not have to fear being judged by God or cast aside by Him because we have already been judged in His Son Jesus. The result of that judgment was, "you have been declared righteous" (Romans 5:1) because of your faith in Jesus' atoning work.

Now you can keep company with God! We can talk to Him about everyday issues. We can tell Him how we are feeling and listen to Him respond to us. My desire today is, "Lord, help me realize that you are always present and all I have to do is learn to keep company with you, and this is what you want from me."

This is today,

Pastor Gary

The River

Have you ever been canoeing or tubing down a river? I remember as a kid doing those things, and oh how much fun it was, or at least that is the memory anyways. A river represents an abundant supply. It represents volumes of water. Water is very important to our survival as human beings. A matter of fact, people in the know tell us that a person can only survive without water for about 3 or 4 days. We need water to survive!

A river represents more than enough .... a river represents abundance. However they are subject to drying up and water sources disappearing. That which once was a sign of abundance suddenly disappears.

In Psalms 65 David is speaking of the goodness of God. He is talking about how God waters the earth and cares for His creation. I like how the New Living Translation reads in verse 9, " ... the rivers of God will not run dry." Applying this spiritually is a great source of comfort. The rivers of God will never run dry!

No matter what we are experiencing, the rivers of God will not run dry. God is our never ending source. He is more than enough. So go forth today encouraged, knowing that His supply is always enough. A matter of fact, Paul said it this way: "But my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory."

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Purpose

Webster defines the word "purpose" as something set up as an object or end to be attained. Have you ever met someone who seemed to live with purpose? That individual seems to have an extra drive. They seem to walk with an extra step. They are able to persevere through difficult situations. Purpose is a common ingredient of successful leaders.

1 Corinthians 9:26 (nlt) says, "So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step ..." Paul recognized the importance of living with purpose. In this analogy of an athlete who is in a race, Paul says he runs with purpose in every step. The object or the end to be attained is the prize, crossing the finish line successfully. For believers, the object is eternal life. This is our purpose! This is the end to be attained.

Where is your purpose? This is a sobering question. My prayer today is, "Lord, help me to keep the main thing the main thing. Lord, help me to keep this purpose in the forefront of my life." I think many of us wear numerous hats and we perform different roles, so there may be different purpose's that direct our life. In example, I am a father, my purpose is to be the best dad I can be to my children. However, I am a husband and friend so my purpose is to be a great husband and friend to my wife. So many may wear different hats in society, but may we remember the main purpose we all have as Christians. This purpose is eternal life, crossing the finish line successfully.

As you go about your day, ask the Lord to show you how you can keep the "main thing the main thing!" Ask the Lord to help you take "every step with purpose."

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Special Days

Today is my baby girls birthday. Charis is 10 years old today. It is hard to believe my baby is 10. Special Days! Aren't they great? Charis spent the day with her mother as they were looking for her a cell phone. Charis thinks she has waited long enough to get one and since everyone else in the family has one she says it is her time. Thank the Lord for "family plans."

Charis, her name is actually the English spelling of the Greek word KARIS. The greek word means "grace." Aren't you glad for God's grace? Grace is God giving you what you do not deserve. The Word declares that it is "by grace" that we are saved and "not of works lest any man should boast." A am grateful for God's saving grace and I am grateful for God's keeping grace.

It is because of God's grace that we are not consumed. It is because of God's grace that He allows us to come "boldly before His throne." I am grateful for God's amazing grace ... "how sweet the sound!"

Everyday I look at my little girl and I am reminded of God's grace and blessings to me. Thank you Lord for your favor, your love, your acceptance, and your grace.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

A Pattern

I have never sewn anything in my life, but my wife has. Actually, Christy is pretty good at using a sewing machine. What I learned from watching her is, you need a pattern to use. The pattern shows what can take place, what can happen if you follow the rules and the pattern.

The Apostle Paul said in his letter to Timothy in his first epistle (1:15-16), "Faithful is the word and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am foremost. But because of this I was shown mercy, that in me, the foremost, Jesus Christ might display all His longsuffering for a pattern to those who are to believe on Him unto eternal life. (Recovery Version)" Paul readily admits that he is the "chiefest among sinners", that is, foremost. I believe what Paul is trying to say is, "I am the last one you would have ever dreamed the Lord word have chosen and saved. However, He has saved me and called me and my life demonstrates the longsuffering of God. In actuality, my life is a pattern. It is a pattern of what God can do if you will only surrender to Him."

What encouraging words for all of us! How many have thought that they were not worthy of being redeemed? How many have thought their sin was too great and their past too horrible? I think the moral of the story of Paul's life is, if God will choose one who once spoke against Him and sought to harm those who followed Christ ... if God would save one who participated in the murder of Stephen, or at least consented to it, then you and I are in good company. God will do the same for us. Encourage yourself in the Lord, oh saint of God, no matter how horrid your past, if you turn to the Lord, He will do something great in your life. You have a pattern to look at and it is the Apostle himself. Isn't God wonderful?

This is today,

Pastor Gary

My Father

Growing up in a pastor's home was not always the easiest. However, my father seemed to recognize this and did his best to shield us from the constant onlookers and should I say "glass watchers." The tendency is to look at the pastor's home and see or suppose it is some perfect place, however, our home was just like any other home. We argued and fuss and then dad would make us make up. Mom and dad would give us chores to do and we would fuss about not having time and that we needed to hurry and go outside and play because things outside seemed a little more important. One thing our house was filled with was love and discipline. My father led the way in both categories!

My dad was always someone to look up to. He was always there for his family. He often arose early in the morning to go off into the day. He was always leading the way spiritually in our house. We would be watching T.V. and then dad would say, "It is time to turn the t.v. off and let us have devotions." We would fuss but he would always win. I use to get upset, but now I am grateful for those times.

I can remember, whenever my father would get a phone call from a church member or someone who needed help he would always respond and try to help them in their need. My father led the way in compassion and he passed that same heart down to us, his children. My father taught us to love. To love one another and most of all, to love the Lord. My dad was and is the best! He taught me how to be a good father and it is his imitation of Jesus that I so long to follow and pursue in my life. If I could be just half the man that he is then I will be a good man. In honor of my father!

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Rich

Rich, but not with money. Rich in the abundance of love. Yesterday, the news world was shocked by the sudden death of Tim Russert. As I watched the coverage of his death, one after another spoke of the Man, Tim Russert. They spoke more about his strong faith and his love for his family, especially his wife, son Luke and his father. Yes, he was a great interviewer and broadcaster, but what mattered most in the end was the fact he was a good father, a husband, a son and a man of faith.

It made me think, "what will people say when I am dead?" I remember an exercise we had to do in one of my classes for my Masters in Counseling degree. The exercise was to write your own obituary. At first, I thought this was a morbid idea, but it actually caused me to put some things in perspective. None of us are guaranteed tomorrow, as we are reminded by the sudden death of Tim Russert, however, all of us are giving the same 24 hours in a day.

Reading today I came across Proverbs 10:22 it says, "The blessing of the Lord makes a person rich ..." As we get ready to celebrate Father's Day I realize that God has blessed me with three wonderful children and a beautiful wife who loves me unconditionally. I also stop to think of my father, Jack Howell, who has always been there and has been a spiritual giant in my life. I can remember as a kid rushing into my parents room, should I say barging into my parents room, only to find my dad on his knees beside his bed praying.

Tonight, I am reminded, I am rich because of the blessings of the Lord.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

The Presence

Have you ever felt a heaviness and just could not shake it? Sure! We all have at one point or another. I am reminded today of what takes that heaviness away. It is the presence of God. The presence of God that comes to you when you read the Word of God. The Word that is alive and powerful.

Like so many times before, when we feel overwhelmed or we feel discouraged or we are simply having one of those days, you pick up the bible and you turn to a passage, any passage, and God speaks to you. Suddenly, the presence of God fills your heart and you know, all is well.

So, as the Psalmist declared, "lift up your head" oh saint of God. Strengthen thyself in the Lord! Allow the presence of God to fill that emptiness. Allow the presence of God to saturate you and alleviate all your worries, fears and anxieties.

What can you do? Find a friend who will be there for you. Open the Word of God and invite the presence of God into your situation. Knowing this, Jesus was "touched with the feelings of your infirmities, yet without sin." Jesus knows and cares! What great news. Allow the presence of God fill you, your mind and thoughts, and your very being.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Sunday Night

This past Sunday Night I ministered from the passage of St. Mark that deals with Jesus healing blind Bartemaues. The story is found in chapter 10:46-52. The passage begins with a crowd following Jesus. This really was not an unusual scene. A matter of fact, it was common place for Jesus and His ministry to have a crowd following Him. As I read this story I wondered, "if I had lived in the days of Jesus, would you have found me in the crowd following Jesus?"

Automatically we answer, "yes, of course!" But don't be so quick to rush to a conclusion ... really think about it. We sometimes have our thoughts of how God is to work and move. We sometimes have our own conclusions of what is of God and not of God before we are even encountered with a situation. We often approach serving God with our own parameters in mind and we are so often accustomed to listening to others opinions and deciding for us on spiritual matters, that I do not know if many of us would have been in the crowd or not.

Let us take a moment and put the story in context. Jesus was not readily accepted by the religious community of His day. Many of the biblical scholars said He could not be the Messiah. Many religious leaders were saying He had a devil and the works He performed were from His father, the prince of devils. There were many questions surrounding Jesus. And then, these band of men who were always with Jesus. They were not the elite of society. They were not very educated men. I mean, after all, many were fishermen and one was a tax collector. And to top everything off, this Jesus spoke of God as His Father, and no one had ever done this before. Many considered this to be blasphemous associations and words.

To be in the crowd one would have had to defied conventional wisdom of the day. One would have had to turn a deaf ear to all the cynics. One would have had to risk being excommunicated from the synagogue. To be in the crowd one would have had to be willing to be called a fanatic. However, it was those in the crowd who so often received miracles and saw the impossible become a reality.

My prayer today is, "Lord, may I be found in the crowd today. Lord, help me not to approach you with my own parameters and guidelines. Help me not to rely solely upon the opinions of man. Lord, help me to push back all the doubts and fears so I can see the impossible become reality."

This is today

Pastor Gary

Silence

I am learning to be silent in the presence of the Lord. Sometimes I find myself having a one sided conversation when I enter my personal time with the Lord. He is teaching me to be quiet, silent. Do you know how hard that is for a preacher? Do you know how hard that is for someone who is social?

But in silence I am learning to hear! I am learning to surrender! I am learning it is all about HIM!! I am learning what it means to commune. I am learning as I empty myself of 'me' I then can be filled with HIM. In this process I am learning what it means to be filled with HIM. It means, to be filled with His grace, His strength, His mercy, His love, His compassion, His desires!

I am not there yet. I still find myself trying to 'say a whole lot' and then I remind myself (in actuality God reminds me) to be "silent." It is in the silence that I find Him, or rather, should I say, He finds me!!

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Light

John 8:12 (nlt) "Jesus said to the people, ' I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't be stumbling through the darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.'" What a great thought! What a great comfort! What a tremendous truth!! "You will have the light that leads to life." Those words simply stuck in my spirit today.

What do I think of when I think of life, in this context? I think of abundance, contentment, fulfillment, peace, joy, and satisfaction. I also think of the word "rest." This is something many people in today's world does not have. They do not have rest in their spirit. To have rest in your spirit does not mean we will not have some tough places to tread or some difficult days, However, to have the "Light", to have Jesus with you means to have "rest" in spite of your circumstances. Jesus is the Light that "leads to life", that gives the rest.

A Light also points the way. Have you ever been in a pitch dark room? It is a helpless feeling as you stumble, not knowing what is in front of you, through the darkness. It takes your confidence away. Confusion sets in and you become disoriented as you try to find your way through the darkness. This is the picture Jesus paints of those who do not know and serve Him. They "stumble through the darkness." However, the Light points the way,

Lord, thank you for being the "light of the world." Help me to follow the "Light that leads to life". Lord, help me to find my rest in you.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Let Us Worship and Bow Down

Psalm 95:6 (NLT) "Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker". A call to worship prostrate before the Lord. What I hear when I read this is, "reverence." Yes, worship, but worship with reverence! In biblical literature when one would bow down before another it was done for several reasons. One, as a sign of respect and honor. Another reason was as a sign of authority. In example, one appearing before a monarch, a king, would bow before them because of the king's position and authority.

Jesus, help me to bow before you everyday. Help me to recognize your authority. May my words and my actions demonstrate this. My flesh so wants to be in control. My carnality so wants to be enthroned. Help me to bow and surrender to your Lordship, for this is true worship!

Yes, there is a call to come and worship, but the call is to worship reverently. You, Father God, are everything we are not. You are holy, righteous, compassionate, merciful, inherently good, understanding and you are longsuffering. Lord, help me not to take a seat beside you, but before you, reverently bowing to you in true worship.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

My Struggle

Struggle's! We all have them. As long as we live in a fallen world we will have struggle's. Struggle's mean different things to different people. For some, it means a trial. For others, it may be a particular weakness they are prone to. Still for others, it may be a particular hardship such as financial or a spiritual struggle. The word struggle is definitely a relative term. Everyone handles the struggle they face in different ways, a lot of it may depend on their particular personality, their culture, their spirituality. All of these influence how a person deals with a struggle.

The Apostle Paul spoke about going through a particular struggle in Romans 15. What we learn from this passage is, we need people to help us in our particular struggle. In verse 30 Paul said, "I urge you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me" (NLT). Paul asked them to join with him in this specific need.

We need others! We need mentors! We need accountability partners! We need prayer partners! I believe where most of us go wrong is, we try to handle things on our own. May the Lord open our eyes to the vast resources we have in the body of Christ. The vast resources we have in each other.

Paul asked the Roman Christians to enter into his struggle with him by praying for him. As we enlist prayer partners, we are enlisting individuals who will partner with us in our struggle. The load is much lighter when we have others helping to carry the load.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Refresh

I decided I would read a Proverb today. You know the old saying, “a Proverb a day keeps the devil away.” Sounds good to me! So I picked the obvious, the 11th proverb. It is full of good instruction. It starts off by talking about dishonest people and how the Lord hates lying and dishonesty. Then it moves to the fact of how the Lord rescues the Godly. A little further in the Proverb the writer states, the Lord "delights in those who have integrity." However, the verse that caught my heart, my attention is verse 25, "the generous prosper and are satisfied, those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed" (NLT)

"Those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed." I believe the word I am looking for is reciprocity. Our relationship or should I say our growth in spiritual matters has much to do with reciprocity. It is reciprocal in nature. The New Testament tells us that if we will "draw nigh to God, then He will draw nigh to us." Yes, God initiated our salvation. He sought us out and saved us. However, It seems now, at least at times, that we become the pursuer and God responds to us in direct proportion as we are seeking Him out, and His ways. Yes, there are times, even now, in our walk with Him that we know He specifically pursues us but if we want to go deeper and know Him even greater then we must become the pursuer, the "God Chaser."

Jesus said, "when you have done it to the least of these my brethren ye have done it unto me." When we "refresh others" are we not in essence doing it unto the Lord, and thereby being pursers of the Father? And the benefit is, in the process we are "refreshed." Don't you like the word "refreshed." It sounds clean, wholesome, restful, full of energy and life. Lord, help me find someone today to "refresh."

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Lives Shining Brightly

This is what the Apostle Paul tells the Philippian believers. They are to let their "lives shine brightly before them." This sounds very familiar to the words of Christ when He tells the disciples that they (we) are the "light" which shines in the darkness. "Ye are the light of the world." In essence, we reflect "the light." Jesus is the light from heaven. Jesus is the light of the world. We are His followers, His disciples, His friends, therefore we reflect who He is. It is both a privilege and a duty.

It is a privilege because He has chosen us. He has ordained us. He has called us. He has done this because of His love for each of us. He has placed His love upon us and in us. It is a privilege to be called His.

It is a duty because we have a responsibility and duty to reflect His nature ... Him. The goal is for others to see Jesus in us. That is, the real Jesus. The Jesus of the scriptures. The Jesus of heaven.

Paul told the Philippians to let their "lives shine brightly before them" (2:15 NLT). This is said in the context of verse 14, "in everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing." The reason is, so that no one can speak evil against them and in so doing they would be letting their "lives shine brightly before them."

Lord help me to watch what I say because I never know who is listening. Help me not to complain or to give myself to endless arguments. Above all, I want to reflect the real Jesus, the Jesus of the scriptures. This is my privilege and my duty.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

The Opposite Direction

Jonah 1:3 NLT says, "But Jonah got up and went in the opposite direction ..." Seem foolish doesn't? Especially on this side of the story! Oh, but how often do we find ourselves going in the opposite direction, just like Jonah, trying to flee from the presence of the Lord. The passage informs us that Jonah actually thought he could flee from the presence of the Lord. How silly is that thought? However, we often find ourselves in that same predicament, trying to "flee from the presence of the Lord."

The "opposite direction" represents everything that God is not. Lack of peace, lack of rest, lack of joy, lack of contentment, lack of fulfillment, and the list goes on and on. It is never ending. However, following God is everything that God is. I want everything that God is. I want His peace, His joy, His rest, His contentment, His fulfillment, and as the other list, it goes on and on because God is never ending. To have everything that God is, is to have everything because God is.

The heartbreak is this, how often do we find ourselves going in "the opposite direction"? My aim today ... my goal today is not the "opposite direction" but His direction.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Stillness

The last several days we have been experiencing March winds. Our days have been very windy! But today there is an erie stillness in the air. A stillness that grabs your attention. As I sit on our back porch, you can see as the branches of the trees stand still. There is a quietness about the neighborhood.

This reminds me of the importance of remaining still in the presence of God. A matter of fact, the Psalmist states the words of our Heavenly Father, "Be still and know that I am God." Today, it seems as if the trees are being still before God. My thought is, Lord, help me to learn to be still in your presence. Help me to know how to be still and to know you are God!

Life is so hurried. We are so busy with doing things. We are so caught up in our agendas, calenders, and plans that we often fail to simply be still. May we practice the discipline of being still before God. Yes, this is a discipline! The discipline of being still, not only physically, but mentally and emotionally. May we empty ourselves of all the distractions so that we can be filled with all of God. Father, fill us this day with yourself.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Just Look Up

Have you ever awakened real early in the morning, before the sun comes up and went outside and just listened? Have you ever just listened to the breeze blowing, the different animals chirping? Have you ever simply sat back and looked up in the early morning sky and watch the clouds as they streak across the sky? As you look up you see the stars, the heavenly host, each one created by our Lord Jesus Christ. You cannot help but be filled with wonder and awe for God's greatness. You cannot help but feel His presence. And then to think, that He knows you. He sees you! He understands you!

David exclaimed in Psalm 139 that such a knowledge is "too inaccessible to me." It simply blows my mind. It is beyond my comprehension; but, nevertheless, it is still true!

Sometimes we feel so insignificant. Sometimes we feel so small, but the good news is this, our feelings do not change the fact that He still cares. He still understands. He still knows you. Just because we cannot get our finite minds around this truth does not change the truth. God sees you.

Walk today in the blessings of knowing God is watching you. He is watching with love and with a desire to work in your life. When you get tired, frustrated, or even feeling small, take a moment and look up. Take a deep breath and hold it for a few seconds then release it, then repeat it. Take a moment to slow down and take in all that is around you. You will see God in the midst of it all. Friend, as you look up you will see that He is looking down.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Giving All Of You

I Thessialonians 2:8 NLT Paul says, "We loved you so much that we gave you not only God's Good news but our own lives, too." Wow! It is amazing the love the Apostle demonstrates for the believers in Thessalonica. It was a love that compelled him to give his whole life to. Paul was willing to lay it all down. It was a love that compelled him to go the extra mile. To give everything? Yes, this is what the Father did for us. He gave everything so that we might have eternal life.

The good news is, if He gave His Son will He not also freely give us all things for life and godliness? He will sustain in our hour of giving all. He will strengthen us to bear up under any trial. He will be our reward!

Lord, help me to give everything to you. Help me to hold loosely to the things I need to hold loosely too; and, then, help me to hold your principles tight to my heart. Lord, whatever we give up today will be small in comparison to what you have already given to us.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Summer is Near

Matthew 24:32 "Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near." The other day I was pulling out of the parking lot of a local business and I noticed the Crape Murtle trees that had been cut back was starting to bud. I thought of two things. First, I thought I need to cut my crape murtles back; and second, it won't be long and summer will be hear.

Jesus used this parable in relation to the Coming of the Son of Man. When you see these signs then you will know that His coming is close, it is at hand. Just like the crape murtle beginning to bloom reminded me of something I needed to do, may the sings of His coming remind us, we must not put off till tomorrow what needs to be done today. We too may have some pruning to do. We too may have some choices to make. We may need to make some tough choices and it may hurt for a moment, but the reward will be much sweeter in the end.

Summer is near. It is getting closer. Oh, I am not speaking about the season of the year. No, I am speaking about the eternal summer of being with the King of king and Lord of lords. Make ready what needs to be made ready now, do not delay!

This is today,

Pastor Gary

My Own Ideas

In John 7 Jesus is in Jerusalem for the "festival of Shelters." The religious leaders were looking for Him, not because they were interested in what He was saying as much as they were interested in entrapping Him because they were already plotting His death. The buzz was on! People were asking questions about Jesus. Some were saying He was a mighty man of God. Others were accusing Him of being a fraud. Still for others, the jury was still out.

When Jesus first arrived in the city He did so secretly, so as no one would know He was there. Then about midway through the feast Jesus went to the temple and He began to teach (vs. 12). The religious leaders were amazed at His knowledge and said among themselves, "How does He know so much when He has not studied everything we've studied? (v. 15) Then in verse 16 Jesus said something profound. Jesus said, "I am not teaching my own ideas, but those of God who sent me."

So many today teach their own ideas. So many teach the ideas that originate with man. Jesus said, 'these are the ideas of God.' No wonder His Words pierced like a arrow. No wonder His Words were as precise as a knife in the hand of trained surgeon. No wonder His Words speak directly to our need. These Words are the Words of God Himself. The creator, the maker of all things.

The ideas of men, fall on deaf ears. The ideas of men lead to conflict and the lack of resolution. The Words of God lead to healing and wholeness.

Lord, help us to seek your Words, not the ideas of men. Lord, help us seek your truth, not the substitute of man's way.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

What Will You Do For Us

"What will you do for us?" This was the question the crowds asked Jesus the day after He fed the five thousand. This question represents the heart of so many people today. They are only looking to Jesus for what He will do. It is like they are waiting in line to see another trick. To pay for another miracle. They are looking for another sign.

Yes, Jesus does so much for us, and He will continue to do mighty things in our lives. However, should not our posture be, at least some of the time, "Lord, what is it I can do for you?" Should we not ask, "Lord, is there an area I can sacrifice more? Is there a place in my life I can die more?"

The crowd was looking for another sign. Some, no doubt, was there because they thought they might get another free meal. Jesus told the crowds what they should do and that was to "believe in the one God has sent." However, they wanted to ask, "what will you do for us?"

May we humble ourselves and say, "Lord, I do believe, what can I do for you?" May we seek Him and not simply His hand. May we desire to experience His presence and not simply what He can do for us. May our prayer today be: "Lord, what can I do for you?"

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Brokenness

Have you ever longed for more of God? Have you ever simply stopped and evaluated yourself? Your spirituality? Your relationship with God? Just where you stand? And in so doing, find yourself dissatisfied with yourself, your personal progress? Then from deep within, you cry for more or God. You cry not for His judgment, but you cry for His mercy. Not His scolding but His love. Not His permissiveness but His love, His power, His anointing. Have you ever simply cried, "Lord, I need less of me and more of you?" And in so doing, you found yourself broken before God?

Brokenness is a place where God dwells. Brokenness is a place where God works. Brokenness is a place where the power of God's presence resides. It is a hard place to be, but a necessary place to live. It is a tough place to reach, but it is a place of renewal, revival, and a place of refreshing. It is a place of recognizing our total need of Him.

God dwells with the "broken and contrite" of heart. God resists the proud but accepts the humble. May we reach this place in Christ Jesus. This place where we "are nothing" and He is "everything." This place where our insufficiency is suddenly swallowed up in His sufficiency.

Remember, it is a journey, not a destination!

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Satan Will Be Crushed!

Romans 16:20 gives us a great promise. It is a promise with a time table. The Apostle Paul was closing his epistle to the Romans and he was reminding them of the promise of God. Paul declared: "The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you."

The promise is, "the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet." The timetable is: "soon." Isn't this great? Isn't this encouraging? Saint of God, hold on! Keep being faithful! Keep marching forward. Do not retreat! Do not give in! Do not surrender to the fears within or the fighting's without. God is going to crush Satan under your feet! What a great promise! And it will be sooner rather than later.

The God of peace shall do this! This reminds me of one of the titles of Jesus as "Prince of peace." Isn't it great to know that God is going to do this and it is not left up to us to do? It is God's responsibility to crush Satan under our feet and it is our duty to walk on him. Praise the Lord! Walk with your head high. Hold your shoulders back; for God will crush Satan under your feet!

This is today,

Pastor Gary

I Will Not Leave You

"I will not leave you" are wonderful words to hear, especially when we are faced with uncertain circumstances. In a world filled with hurt and disappointment; let downs and heart break the feeling of being alone is too real for many. Last Monday, the 28th of January, we had to take my son Judah back to the doctor because of some complications that had set it. After seeing two different doctors and going through a C-scan it was decided that they would readmit him to the hospital. I was crushed! It was during that time I picked my bible up and turned to John 14 and I read verse 18. In the NLT it says: "No I will not abandon you as orphans -- I will come to you."

What reassuring words when you are going through a difficult challenge. "I will not abandon you." "I will not leave you." The great news is, He never leaves us! Yes we must face challenges, sometimes a lot of challenges but we have the promise of His word. He declares: "I will never leave you nor forsake you." It is early Thursday morning (3:18 am) and you know what? I still hear the Spirit of God saying the words of Jesus to me, "I will come to you."

Thank you Jesus for you will not abandon us in our time of need; instead, you will come to us. You will strengthen us! You will give us comfort! You will give us your grace! May the truth of God's Word undergird you with His goodness today.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Power!

When we think of power we often think of a muscle car or something like a nuclear plant. When we read the Word of God you see the power of God displayed. Romans 4 speaks about how Abraham believed God in that "He was able to raise the dead and call into existence that which never existed before." Now that is power. And the great news is, this power, the power of God, is at work in every believer. As you study the Word you experience that power within your life. As you walk in faith and trust God He will do the impossible for you. He will move mountains for you as you stand upon His promises. Therefore, lift up your head for your "help comes from the Lord."

This is today,

Pastor Gary

God's Love

God's love is the greatest force and power you can think upon. The Apostle Paul asks a rhetorical question, "what can separate us from the love of God?" (Romans 8) Think about this for a moment. What can separate you from the love of God? Remember, the Apostle is writing to a church in Rome that is going through a difficult time. The Christians at this time were being persecuted for the injustices of their community. There was an all out attack by the enemy upon them. Paul is reminding these bewieldered believers that no matter what they faced; no amount of hardship, no amount of difficulty, no crises, no, not even death could separate them from God' love.

Paul also reminds these persecuted believers that they have "overwhelming victory ... through Jesus Christ." You and I have this same overwhelming victory. The KJV actually says we are "more than conquerors." Live today with confidence! Face your challenge with the assurance that "nothing shall be able to separate you from the love of God."

As you go about your business today may you have an extra step in your walk. May you go forth in praise knowing that God's love and power surrounds you and you are highly favored of God.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Perfect Conditions?

Many people are looking for the ideal situation. They are looking for the ideal church; ideal job; ideal circumstances; and, to be totally honest, we will not see ideal until we get to heaven. Some are waiting for things to be just right before they move out and do something for God. This is a temptation all of us face. The challenge is if we wait until everything is just perfect then we may never accomplish anything because all we are doing is waiting. Proverbs 11:4 (NLT) "If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done."

What sound advice from the Word of God! We must seize the opportunity today. We must be about the Father's work now. Will it be inconvenient at times? Yes! Will things be just right and perfect? No! We must do what we are going to do today. We cannot wait until perfect conditions arrive to do what we know is right.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Who Is This Man?

Mark 4 records an episode in the life of Jesus and His disciples that has become a favorite of many people. It is the story of Jesus asleep in the boat when a storm suddenly arises. There are several things about this story that are fascinating. One of the things that never cease to amaze me is how "suddenly" storms happen. It is like they arise out of nowhere. However, just as the disciples learned, if you have Jesus in the boat with you, then all is well.

The part of this story that sticks out to me the most is at the closing of the story when the disciples turn to each other and ask, "who is this man?" (NLT) Who is this man? He is the one who calms the waters. He is the one who delivered the demoniac when no-one else could tame him. He is the one who healed Jarius' daughter and He is the one who healed the woman with the issue of blood when she touched him.

Who is the man called Jesus? He is the one who died so that we could live!

This is today,

Pastor Gary

"I Promise"

I remember as a little kid I use to love it when my dad would say, "I promise." This meant something special to me. It did not mean "maybe" or "I will see," it meant He was going to definitely do what he said he was going to do. God's promises are the same way. It is not a "maybe" or "we will see," it is a definite. God's promises are true, they are "yea and amen" in Christ Jesus. The Word of God declares, "He who has promised is also faithful."

I am grateful for the promises of God. I am grateful for what His Word has declared to us. I thankful, that through his infinite wisdom He has given us the bible passed down through the ages. We have a record of the goodness of God. We have a record of the faithfulness of God. We have a record of what God wants to do in our lives.

The old hymn of the church says, "standing on the promises of God I cannot fail, when the howling storms of doubt and fear assail , by the the living Word of God I shall prevail, standing on the promises of God."

Go forth in confidence today knowing your heavenly Father has said, "I promise." This means He will definitely do what He has declared to do and "who shall let it?"

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Citizenship

Philippians 3:20 declares: "For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." What a great thought! As citizens we are protected by certain rights. As citizens we can have certain expectations. As citizens, it means we belong and we have a sense of purpose and direction.

As citizens of heaven we are protected by the blood of Jesus Christ. As citizens we can expect the presence of God to always comfort us, the peace of God to always calm us, and the promises of God to sustain us.

Not only are there certain expectations of being a citizen but there are also certain responsibilities. We have a responsibility to conduct ourselves worthy of citizenship. That is, we should live by Kingdom principles. We have a responsibility to be light and salt in the world. We have a responsibility of representing Jesus in such a way that others will want to know Him.

Not only are there certain expectations and responsibilities, but there are great privileges of citizenship also. It is a privilege to call God "our Father"." It is a privilege to take all your fears to Him in prayer. It is a privilege to walk in His peace and to call Him LORD. Live today with the confidence of knowing you are a part of a great Kingdom. Live with a sense of purpose and direction to your life. You are one of the champions of God!

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Prayers of the Saints

We all know that prayer is a mighty weapon from God. The Apostle Paul said in Corinthians that the "weapons of our warfare are not carnal but are mighty through God." Yesterday and last night our family saw the miraculous power of prayer. God does "hear the prayer of the destitute" and He comforts the hurting.

Thank you for your prayer, phone calls, and visits to Judah during this time. Christy and I are rejoicing today in the goodness of God and we are very thankful for our friends, family and the body of believers who are so faithful to be their with comforting words and their prayers.

Judah came through his surgery with a good report. There is a road of recovery ahead but God is already doing miracles. It is times like these you are reminded to be thankful for the small things, the ordinary things, the mundane. I realize we often take things for granted but I give thanks today, for God is really good!

It is in times like these that the prayers of other believers mean so much. Today, we have "a story" that says, God is faithful and has seen us through.

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Not Ashamed

In Romans 1:16 the Apostle Paul declared his faith when he said, "I am not ashamed." His life was a testimony to that very statement. He was never ashamed to declare the mighty works of Christ. There were many opportunities for him to be silent but he chose to speak instead. There were many times and opportunities for him to run, but he stayed instead. There were many opportunities for him to quit but he kept going. Why? Because he was "not ashamed".

Not Ashamed! That is a great place to be! May we not be ashamed when opportunities come for us to speak up. When others are saying be silent, may we boldly proclaim we are "not ashamed".

Aren't you grateful Jesus was "not ashamed" to do His Fathers will? I am thankful He was "not ashamed" to go to the cross. For it was on the cross that He redeemed us to Himself and by the power of the resurrection he was "declared to be the son of God." Striving to be "not ashamed".

This is today,

Pastor Gary

Overflowing with Thanksgiving

Colossians 2:7b NLT declares: "Let your lives overflow with thanksgiving for all he has done." Paul is admonishing the church of Colossia to abound in thanksgiving for all the Lord has done for them. What has the Lord done for us? He has done great things in our lives. We too should overflow with thanksgiving. My our lives be an example of thanksgiving to others. May our words demonstrate to others our heart of thanksgiving. Jesus said, "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" therefore may our words demonstrate our thankful heart. As we set out on a new year may 2008 be a year of spiritual growth. May we go ahead and overflow with thanksgiving for what God is going to do. Get ready for a great year!