Blame always rises to the top of the leadership ladder, even in cases where the full truth and reasoning may not be known. In the case of a failure and or removal from the highest level, blame also quickly descends upon those who remain.

Leadership truly does require a thick skin.

It does not require perfection for nobody is.
It does not require full transparency, for we live in a time where it is more fun to highjack the truth with misleading titles and offering words that stand in the way of resolution than asking questions and working through all possible aspects in order to gain better understanding.

Not everyone is "in the room". We do not know, nor can we sometimes fully comprehend the information presented, the context and the history that factors in; as to why, how and where decisions are made and the impact that follows.

Furthermore, it doesn't help any matters that people arrive at places of criticism for some fairly far-fetched reasons, others very legit and well-founded. So the discussion is always an interesting one, provided both parties can hang in long enough to find common ground... or at least a point or place of understanding.

We've come to a place where we think everything needs to be shared, everything needs to be known and all reasoning explained. Life doesn't work like that. Relationships exist on several levels and not all can be intimate enough to be full access with nothing hidden from plain sight.

Leadership is a conviction for truth.
Leadership is a boldness to declare it.
Leadership is a compass for trust.

The first of the three can be the equivalent of an archeological dig.
The last of the three, easier to lose than to gain.
In the middle, resides the temptation to remain silent... which long term, helps nobody.

All the more reason, to pray, not just for leadership in general, but for pastors. For if we are concerned for the lives that hang in the balance as a society, how much more, our concern for lives who hang in the balance of eternity?

Thanks again, for joining me this #associatePastorTuesday, as we pray for associate pastors. Pray for a conviction for the truth. Pray a boldness to declare it and in love. Pray for wisdom in their relationships, that they would be built on trust. As we do live in a day of desired transparency, pray for wisdom and guidance, that leaders and pastors would know what to share, with whom and when; for relationships are dynamic with intricate moving pieces and salient details. May God help those who observe and criticize; may it be done so with compassion and understanding. May their be a foundation of understanding; rather than a platform that is quick to place blame and hurl insults.

May our lives glorify Christ
Even as decisions are made
While we may not understand, nor agree;
May we continue to trust... first and foremost,
The sovereign hand of God.
Not Himself removed from our presence,
But intimately involved in the affairs of man.
That His purposes might be accomplished
So all may know, He is God.

- PNC

I got to thinking last night about all the pastors and church leaders who lead and serve in other areas of ministry, outside of their local church. They may serve on boards or leadership positions in their communities or in the higher ranks of their denominations, at a district, state or national level. They serve on boards of other non-profit or para-church organizations.

There's an incredible amount of wisdom and knowledge from these amazing leaders.

As I reflected on this past week, and the conversations that have arisen on how the church should respond to issues abroad and how governments interact with each, there has been an overwhelming amount of perspectives and opinions offered... how to respond as a society, how to respond as a church and how those two come together in a way that glorifies and honors God.

The last part is increasingly difficult, as so much of society and government has sought to remove God from the conversation, yet now we "have" to do the Christian thing.

I say all of that to say, if the people have difficulty having the conversation and coming to places of understanding, how much more the disagreements that come to light through the interaction with leadership teams and people of influence; those who make the decisions and direct the conversations that precede them.

These are simple times of epic proportions in which we live. I really don't know how to describe how so many people are using Scripture to justify and advance their argument, even from those who aren't Christian, yet use the Christian foundation of a nation against the church for the stance they may take. This is nothing new, of course, but it seems to have surely risen to the forefront in recent days.

All the more, to pray for our pastors and church leaders!  

So, pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for senior pastors who hold places of influence and leadership outside of their church. In the conversations and meetings they have, may God impart wisdom into their hearts and minds. Pray God would guide their paths and direct the conversations and the decisions that result. While they may never have 100% support or everyone in agreement, pray that their convictions would be clear and grounded in a consistent and accurate understanding of Scripture. Pray for a covering of grace when times of dispute and disagreement arise; that their positions would not be used negatively, but for the advancement of the Gospel of Christ.

Strength from the Hand of God
Direction from His Word
Intentional in our walk with Him
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood
But against principalities and powers and rulers of darkness.
Against spiritual wickedness in high places.
God, we look and reply and upon you anew and afresh.
For your glory.

- PNC

"Why is it for every good thing you do around here, we've got to endure three screw-ups?"

I've often felt as Deputy Chief of Staff Josh Lyman, as President Bartlet expresses this sentiment to him during the third season of The West Wing.

As I'm waiting for the loading process of my laptop this morning, this quote popped in to my mind, as a friend acknowledged the struggle from yesterday's post in a real-life moment of transparency.

I can't state it often enough... nobody is perfect and I'm am far from being closest to the top of the list. If I am, the list is in the order of farthest away first. Descending? Yes. (*insert brain freeze)

The statement accurately portrays every struggle to be effective and efficient and the frustration that set-backs and failures cause in the process. Whether in the politics of an administration, the business dealings of a company on the move or a church with a keen sense of the closeness of eternity, we've all said the following:

We don't have time for this today...

...mistakes, accidents, attitudes, drama, slowness, bad decisions, misunderstandings, distractions, traffic and down-right, colossal screw-ups.

Whether the fall-out is short-lived and recovery is but 5 minutes, or disaster strikes and the come-back is 5 years, the struggle is real and the road is hard.

People get hurt along the way.
Expectations get damaged.
Perceptions get skewed.

It happens to the best and brightest among us; for even Josh's co-worker Sam admits a couple episodes later in the series;

I love Josh like a brother. And his world-class political mind. But until today, I had no idea he was smarter than me."

As I've oft stated before, ministry is work. In the effort to be efficient and effective we need all the help, in heaven and on earth, to accomplish the work of the Lord.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, for the Hand of God to strength and minister for those who feel as Josh and I have; being the screw-up more often than we've gotten "right." May their be a grace as they work and that God would grant them insight and direction as they go about their tasks, to do them well, working as unto the Lord. Pray also for leadership, as it's frustrating to see a person make mistakes and have to endure the set-backs that hinder the work and efforts of the church or organization. May their be a peace and a patience in their response, not that it doesn't go undealt with, but with wisdom from on High, for the glory of God. May such times be opportunities, in which God would move on our behalf to accomplish His will; that though it may seem we've undone God's Work, He is not caught off-guard and scrambling for solutions.

Indeed, He works all things for good.
Created to do good works
Extended grace for when we fall and fail.
That our lives and all we do would point back to Christ
To be used by God, not by our skills or knowledge, 
But for our willingness and availability.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

While working on a couple of things online Thursday night, while browsing a few social media newsfeeds, I come across a notification from a networking site for business, informing me of my brothers status update, which was of a job promotion! 

Not surprised, but unexpected, I thought I had missed something. So I texted him.

I knew changes were in the works, for the past 6 or 8 months, with his responsibilities and everything, but our conversations had been about the job, so when I saw the title...

At any rate, he replies with the title being official since January 1; he was just finally getting around to updating his professional online profile. Offering my congratulations, he replies with what I thought I remembered being the game plan... "it's the same thing I've been doing for 6 months or so, but now it's official."

Fast forward a few hours to Friday morning. I'm thinking about the post I had written before running off to work. In particular, thinking about the balance between Christians verbally giving witness to the work of Christ in their life and that of allowing the change in our heart speak to how we live differently from the world. It wasn't but a second or two that the connection was made.

As the church engages community this last Saturday of January, how many have been turned off to the Gospel because they were quick to verbalize their faith, but then consistently live life contradictory to what people perceive as Christian?

Keep in mind, I'm not perfect, nor do I act it... sadly, I have my days where someone might question my profession of faith. So, I'm not saying one should be the perfect Christian before sharing their testimony... for surely, I am not.

But consider these two scenarios.

I've listened to you tell me that you are a Christian for the past year (or much longer), and I yet you still... (whatever seems a clear conflict of behavior and one's faith). I'm not gonna call one thing out, but you've seen something in someone and had this question. How did the conversation go? Did they justify their behavior? 

Conversely...

I've noticed a change in your life over the past few months and I can tell their is clearly something different in how you live your life. We haven't talked about it, but I see it. 

This is the difference between the one who holds the title and people wonder why they have it versus people that do the work and aren't surprised when the title comes.

Thus, as we impact and converse with those around us, let us not be known Christian in name only. But strive to live a life that glorifies God; that by the outflow of our heart, they will know those who are His.

The title is simply a word and a word is worthless if not built on a strong foundation.

For in any arena or event of life, one gets the title because of their performance, not in hopes of it. Fortunately God doesn't work like this, when we accept His gift of salvation... there is an element of grace in it all, yet at the same time, the expectation is present... did we fulfill the duties of the position we've held. 

Pray this #communitySaturday that God would help us live this life He has called us; for surely we are not perfect; yet we are called to reflect Christ to a lost and dying world. May their be a consistency about our lives. Pray our words and our deeds would both point to Christ in all that we say and do. Pray God help us in our conversations, for indeed I've struggled to express the balance of a living and active faith just in this post... how much more with those unfamiliar with Christianity or Biblical principles. Yet everyone has an expectation of how a Christian should live.

Saved by grace.
Sanctified by the Word
Justified by faith in Christ alone.
Imperfect people reflecting a perfect Savior.
Christianity is indeed a process, a balancing act and an irony.
The Sovereignty of God... to use the foolish things to confound the wise
Through His infinite wisdom, unending grace and abundant love.
For His glory and the cause of Jesus Christ.

 - PNC

So, I went to post yesterday's prayer on social media before running out the door for work and thought to myself... where in the world, did this month go?

Then I got to work and within fifteen minutes, was thinking that it was the 27th, not the 26th. 

Meanwhile, someone with a sense of humor posted a meme that reminds us that Christmas is only 11 months away (for those interested in the countdown, of course).

I almost asked the time-related question as I posted the link to a private group page, then thought... no, I'll save it for tomorrows title.

Indeed, time is short and the days are evil. As Petra sings, this ol' world's, in such upheaval; we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but when the enemy comes in like a flood. Stand Up. Take a stand for Jesus.

While nobody is perfect and God can and does use anybody to advance the Gospel, it is we who stand in the way of the message of Christ going forth. It's easy for believers to think that if their testimony of coming to Christ isn't some dramatic story of salvation, that's it's not worth sharing... and that's exactly when the enemy of all souls would love for us to believe. Furthermore, at least for me, if one's lifestyle doesn't match the testimony they share... does it prove all the more, their need for a Savior, for even Christians make a mistakes. 

I'll be the first to admit I don't have it all together. Yet what good are words that point to Christ if one's very life doesn't point to Christ?

I say all that to say, whether you are working to reach people with the Gospel message as your life's work across the globe or reaching out with the Gospel as you live life and go to work just minutes from home, the truth remains... we are running out of time. Both to live lives that are pleasing to God and to speak words of truth to those who need to hear what Christ has done in our lives; whether the story is dramatic or ordinary.

For if you haven't lived as Saul of Tarsus before he became Paul, why would you need a Damascus road encounter with God?

Will you join me, this #missionsFriday, that the lives of all believers would be used to advance the kingdom of God with the message of Christ. May we not wait to share our testimony until our life or lifestyle is "good enough", for that is part of the story... that not one of us is "good". Pray God grant us boldness to speak the truth in love, even to those we know it will be a difficult conversation. May we not get caught in the trap of comparing testimonies and giving in to the temptation to not speak up and take a stand for Christ. Pray, we would rightly take our place, to be a light on a hill, that points other to Christ, even as we continue to have our mistakes and moments of failure.

As time runs out
We are always reminded.
Of our own need for Christ
And so does the person next to you, wherever you are.
Taking a stand for Jesus
For time is slipping away.

- PNC

We've all seen the signs as we've travelled down roads of all kinds...

"Fill dirt wanted"

Something clicked as I passed another one of these yesterday, that while yes, "fill dirt" does serve a purpose, my initial reaction, was that nobody really likes to be considered as "filler". Organizationally-speaking, nobody really gets excited about being there, just for the sake of being there. Whether it be simply to say that a position is filled, or to have the appearance that there are more people and more activity than what is actually going on, it really is a disservice to the organization and the person to simply be occupying a space or a position.

It's almost (or so it seems) that an organization doesn't have an accurate assessment is what is needed, who should be where, what they should be doing... with a defined sense of purpose, for the position and the person who holds it. In any environment, this is troubling and potentially disastrous... all the more, for ministries and churches who are often struggling with budgetary issues and are in need of capable people.

There's been huge move of understanding, probably due in part to the book, "Unqualified", that God doesn't call the qualified, but qualifies the called. While this is very true, that we shouldn't look at ourselves and think God can't use anybody to accomplish His work, we also shouldn't misunderstand this line to mean that the church should simply hire any one to do a job, that they wouldn't stand a chance of getting elsewhere in the marketplace. That's a "filler" mentality.

But like anything, it is a balance... a delicate one, at that.

So... would you pray with me, this #deaconThursday, that pastors and church leaders would be granted wisdom and clarity as they lead staff and volunteers. May God help them place and utilize those who are willing to serve, yes; but also to locate those who have skills and abilities that God has given for the purpose of helping the church be more effective and efficient in their ministry efforts. Across the board, may their be a renewed sense of purpose and value; that one is not simply taking up space in their organization. If they truly are, may there be a grace over the ensuing conversation; that God would give direction as to how such situations should be resolved.

May the church not stand in it's own way
Through inaccurate assessments and evaluations of their organization.
God sovereignly place whom you will use
For the effective ministry of the Gospel of Christ
To be used to the fullest for the glory of God.

- PNC

"I've sinned. I've committed many sins." - Pres. Josiah Bartlet, The West Wing

Regardless of our place in this world. our socio-economic status, political bents and what number rung on the corporate ladder we currently find ourselves, there is one common thread that runs through each of our lives.

One problem.
One solution.
Two responses.

If all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God and Christ is the only Way whereby man can be saved, then one must reconcile in their spirit, whether they will accept or reject Christ as a means of being reconciled unto God. Often, rejection isn't rejection so much as it is denial.

We've convinced ourselves somehow that being in the wrong is not the same as being in sin. 

There's another scene in, in another episode from this political show, where President Barlet is having a conversation with his press secretary. They were going to do a broadcast to students, discussing a NASA program that launch. Then they had problems with the satellite in communicating/retrieving the inforation it was supposed to collect.

In the course of the discussion, they talk about the cancelling doing the broadcast with the students. The press secretary advises to proceed in favor of the broadcast... and why?

Because some kids won't step to the blackboard for fear of getting "it" wrong. To which the press secretary recommends using it as an opportunity to say to students, "you think you get it wrong? You should come see how the big kids do it"

I relay all of that, to say, we are truly doing ourselves and future generations a disservice when we don't effectively communicate the fallen state of humanity, of our sin, of our need for a Savior and that the answer is only found in the person of Jesus Christ whereby we can come into right relationship with God our Creator.

We fail to acknowledge our sin; indeed that we have committed many. Instead we justify, dismiss it, deny our need for Christ and advise, albeit ill, that one should do what "feels right" for them as long as it doesn't hurt anyone else.
​
If love speaks the truth, than that lie that we tell ourselves and our kids borders on hatred. 

Sadly, we are so deep into the lie, that now, is it not only hard to see the truth, let alone accept, it's hard to receive it for what it is; an act of love. For healing and restoration can begin if we don't get down to the core issue of what needs to be restored.

So, thanks for the extra couple minutes to lay that out... and pray with me this #youthPastorWednesday, for pastors of this current generation and upcoming generation of kids and teens. May they not be afraid to speak the truth of man's spiritual state and what the life of Christ means for our lives. Pray the eye-scales of deceit would come off; for those who have believed the lie regarding sin and whether man is "good enough" or simply good because we aren't as bad as our neighbor. May the cycle be broken, of many ways to God; for there is but only One name under Heaven whereby man can be saved. Pray the truth of God's Word would be revealed to the minds of humanity, illuminating the depth of our hearts; that no matter the nature and number of our sin, all have fallen short of God's glory; whether in positioned in high places or lowly streets, every leader and every follower.

One day we all stand before Christ.
Asked how we have decided to live.
May it be said of many,
"You have chosen wisely".
That we not wait to enter in to the presence of God
But come to Him through repentance, while time is still available.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

We've witnessed quite a bit in recent days...  nothing we haven't seen before, although some would argue that it reached a new low, as to what was on display and how it was portrayed.

It has been established that we have been blessed, and given by God, inalienable rights.

And yet, quite simply the flesh fights for even more. There are many layers to the conversation, some I understand, some I don't and it's too exhaustive to explore for the nature of this blog; except to say that even in Christianity, we are often all too quick to assert our own rights.

I'm just as guilty of it as any other believer, yet the truth of the matter is, that as a follower of Jesus Christ, my rights take a back seat to what Christ desires to work in my life and what He desires to accomplish for the kingdom of God through my life.

God loves you.
He loves me.
He provides for us.
He watches over us.
He desires the best for our lives.
He asks that we bring our needs to Him

However, with that understanding in mind, we still, all to often, come to Him from a place of assertion rather than submission. I do it. You do it. Church leadership and pastors have done it. It can be especially difficult to leaders and people in authority; considerably more so when the relationship is particularly tense, stressful or difficult to navigate. Trying to understand what is going on; wandering what new development will be the one that causes a new set of problems... managing and dealing with management is a struggle for both sides of the table. Which is usually when one starts to stand in assertion and the other is left to assert in confrontation or relinquish in submission. 

This is difficult to do in a relationship with a forgiving, compassion, Sovereign God.
How much more with humanity... not so quick to forgive, prone to self-serving, finite being.

We are not our own; we have been bought with a price.
How will the world see Christ, if Christians keep standing in the way?

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday for pastors struggling; finding themselves in places where they feel the need to assert their rights and position. Though the battle is real and the conversation difficult, may the seek that God would be glorified. May God help them to remain humble, for He opposes the proud (which usually is found at the forefront of any assertion). Pray God would grant to them insight and wisdom in dealing with difficult people, whether above them in leadership or under their ministry. May who we are in Christ not stand in the way of Christ being displayed in and through our lives.

That when people look at Christians,
They would not see a person who believes in Christ,
But Christ who desires the best for humanity.
May we be found relinquished only to Him.
That He be glorified as His sovereign plan unfolds in our lives.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I went to bed last night with a mild headache that caused me to lay in bed awake for longer than what is normal, at least recently. I'm not sure the cause... hopefully, not because the one line pastor mentioned yesterday morning that I thought "that's cool, that should be my launch point for Monday's post" and then couldn't remember what it was; however, I foolishly hoped that simply laying down would help speed up its exit.

Well, I woke up this morning and sure enough, the headache still lingers. And before we go any further, yes, Dad, I'm taking something before I leave for work. That said, I know the line had something to do with not wanting to go to work, which we've all felt.

Most senior pastors take Monday off anyway and with good reason, it's exhausting. So technically, this is a post for not wanting to go back to work on Tuesday Regardless, we all have our days of wanting to stay under the covers and not be up and around, whether it mean 4:30am or 7am.

I remember the church my wife and I started attending weeks after we were married. They had just recently moved to a new campus and the congregation was larger than the sanctuary that existed (so much so, that plans for a new sanctuary were imminent, if not already in the works at the time of purchase) The solution?

Three Sunday services. Yes, three. And all of them were packed, the third, not always quite standing room only, but pretty close, often enough. It was crazy. especially with everybody who filled in during the transition time. The pastor, who has since planted, what is now their third, ground-up church, remains a high-energy, high-impact man of God; but I used to watch and wonder in some amazement. Now churches run two Saturday night services, and two or three more on Sunday... it's enough to wipe out you out just thinking about it.

*which I'm trying not to do, because of the headache. (insert smile emoji)

On that note, let's pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors who are having their "don't want to go to work" moments. Whether they be the normal course of life instances or they are on the verge of feeling burnt out, may God strengthen every fiber of their being. In heart, body, mind and soul, may God rejuvenate energy levels and infuse them with a fresh empowering of the Holy Spirit. As they go about their meetings, tasks, and sermon preps, may their be a grace over their actions and engagements. May God grant to them a wisdom and an ease to handle whatever lies before them that demands their attention. Pray they not be burdened down by the past, whether it be left over from last year or circumstances that have already proven difficult in the first few weeks of 2017... may they commit it all to the Lord anew.

To cast their cares upon Jesus
That He may give them rest,
Exchanging burdens and yokes with Christ
That they may impact the kingdom of Heaven with greater ambition,
Greater fervency, greater faithfulness and greater passion.
For the advancement of the Gospel
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Whether turning around a church from an internal operations vantage point; praying for hearts and minds to be illuminated to the truth and need for spiritual rebirth or working to change the reputation of a church as known by the church community and the community-at-large, one thing is consistent throughout them all...

None of it happens without seeking the face of God and calling down strength and direction in order to make the changes that will propel us make greater gains for the kingdom of God.

For all ones' efforts to be effective and efficient, regardless of what they attempt to do, God must be at the forefront... to be our reason for doing and to be our guidance as we go forward.

I'm reminded of God offering His protection and provision, but not His presence. And His offer was rejected.

God... if you don't go, then neither do we.

It can be hard to hear the voice and direction of God.

Sometimes because we make it that way.
Sometimes because it actually us.

Which is why we are often reminded, encouraged and instructed... to wait upon the Lord. It's not inactivity during the meantime as we wait, but being faithful in what we have before us to do until God directs the change in course.

The process; the order; the sequence of how God works...

It may look, seem and feel like chaos at the moment, but this is what God does.

Beauty from ashes.
Laughter from mourning.

The times and trials of our lives are all for His glory and His honor... that whatever we do, we should as unto the Lord. That alone, may very well help Christians and the church-at-large be more effective and efficient in carrying out the work of the Lord and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, a renewed commitment and energy from the body of Christ, to continue to seek the face of God first. May we wait upon the Lord more than ever before. May we be faithful to the work He has already set before us to accomplish. Pray the struggles, trials and distractions of life would not dissuade or detour us, but that we would focus on the more on His character and His faithfulness towards us. Pray for a greater clarity in the decisions we make and the direction we take, whether as an individual Christian, for our families and for the body of Christ as we join together. Pray today would make the dawning of rebirth and revitalization among us... not be torn down and weighted by the concerns of the world, but exchange with Him, for His burden is light. May God strengthen those whose hearts are set on Him and may we know not to take one solitary step unless the presence of God goes with us.

For the glory and honor of God
In whom we live and move and have our being.
For the advancement of the cause of Jesus Christ.

​- PNC

It truly is incredible to watch and witness how communities operate.

Businesses come and go, as well as other organizations and the people who found them, build them and move on to other endeavors. Reputations are established and destroyed based on doing great things right and wrong things that result in great setbacks.

Then come the times of transition, as we've prayed over on previous occasions.

In Washington, there will now be a period of wait and see, until the first reports come out that things are well or don't worry, they haven't improved.

Similarly, the same things happen in towns everywhere, when new ownership and management come in with the intent to revitalize a store or a restaurant that for whatever reason was in jeopardy.

Change in reputations and repute take time... although it can be expedited. Although, come to think of it, thanks to social media, the change from to good to bad is often expedited even more quickly now, rather than turning the negative around for the good.

Churches are no exception. They have reputations just like any other organization. Some known for incredibly positive impacts, others for, well just about anything. And a change in the pastorate and leadership for a church that was struggling and in trouble can bring churches back to places of influence and impact for the kingdom of God.

Yet, it starts, like anything else, with the people. How we share are thoughts, opinions and interactions we people influences if they check out the newest coffee shop or clothing boutique in town. Just as much, how Christians discuss their church, pastors and matters of faith influences whether people check out a church or never to come close to a campus ever again.

So, would you join me once again, whether for the first time or the six hundred and first, on this #communitySaturday. Pray for churches and congregations whose reputations in  the community are less than positive. May God work in the hearts and lives of pastors and parishioners, for the impact a church makes on its community starts with the community of believers, not the community in need of God. Pray God would grant wisdom and direction as to the what, when, where and how changes, if any need to be made. For relationships and connections that need to be made with area leaders and influencers, may God grant favor in their conversations and exchanges. Pray God's strength for tough decisions, for even as we've witnessed this past week, not everyone will agree with the change in direction. May the truth of God prevail; though difficult to hear, it works best in the long run. May the eye-scales of deception be removed and the light of the Son of God reach into the depths of the souls of humanity.

That all may see and know
The goodness and greatness of God.
To experience firsthand the love of Christ.
Not because of the greatness of a church,
But the grace of God on a people who seeks to reach the lost
With the Gospel of Christ at any cost.

- PNC 

Well, today marks the celebration of many things... as every day is a celebration of sorts; some things significantly more important than others.

Among them, can you believe you are reading the 600th post, since the re-launch of this site back on 6/1/15?

Yet, while the world is a flurry of activity and buzz regarding today's activities in Washington, I'm standing in amazing, remembering this day from just a handful of years ago, as we awaited the arrival of our youngest child. What a trip this has been? (Thankfully, we have a few more years before hitting year 18!)

The miracle of birth is simply incredible. There are so many words to describe it, one can't choose just one. Yet most of them fail to capture the true emotions. They truly are a gift... and remember the words, that children are an inheritance from the Lord just makes me wish that at times, I did better as a father than I do

On this #missionsFriday, however, I'm also reminded, that a man cannot enter the kingdom of God, unless He be born again. Not a physical birth, as the disciple tried to comprehend, but a spiritual birth... redeemed by work of Christ on the cross.

While child-birth changes life as we know it on this earth, the spiritual birth changes life as we will know it, for eternity.

All this, as I'm getting ready to type this post and a few hours earlier, an evangelist friend update his social media profile with a post from Israel, highlighting an instance that occurred on the day of his spriritual birth, 32 years ago!

Salvation is for all, yet not all with receive it. And while many will never experience the joy and miracle of birth for themselves or encounter complications along the way (and my heart breaks for them, as we've been there), spiritual birth in Christ truly is an overwhelming joy, a miracle unprecedented and yet to be surpassed... that the Son of God would step off His throne, in order to take our place on the execution board.

As much as I love my kids, this is the greater of the two miracles of birth.

So, thanks for joining me these past 600 days! Here's to many more.

And more importantly, pray that this #missionsFriday, would be a day of many more spiritual births. May today be a new dawn, of hearts and lives illuminated by the Word of God and Gospel of Christ; that His love and forgiveness is available to all who would call on His name and believe. Pray that our experiences, good, bad or tragic, would not stand in the way of one's decision for Christ. Pray for revival; that beyond our lifestyle and culture, beyond our problems and differences of all kinds, may God's love for humanity be revealed and personal application made, that we are all sinners in need of a Savior. Pray a day of celebration, both for churches in their communities and missionaries on the field; that we would witness many souls, changed for eternity.

May, among other things, this particluar January 20th, 
Mark the day of a great many rebirths.
For Christ came that we have life and life abundant,
Desiring to seek and to save those who are lost...
Which we all are, or were at one time.
Grace and blessings to you, my friends.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I spent a fair amount of time yesterday, thinking about organizational development, and in particular, how companies and operations handle times of struggle and difficulty. 

In the marketplace, there is a great niche of people, known as "turnaround consultants", people who are brought in for the purpose of making the tough decisions and bringing a company back from the brink on dysfunction and perhaps even, the inevitable going under.

Often times, they will have experience in a particular field for which they are known, but when a system or organization is broken, the purpose of bringing an outside perspective is to have someone who can bring an unbiased look at what is taking place and apply a rational and logical filter as to what is working and what is not, and how things should be working as it makes sense to that company. The principles and practices carry over, across many platforms... there often isn't room for, "well that won't work for us."

Turning around churches, isn't really all that different. At least to a degree. The difficulty for churches, is that there is an element in which churches won't be identical, in their purpose and ministry and culture for the "market" they are trying to reach. The spiritual influence and super-natural dynamic of a ministry must be taken in to account when a church's operations are analyzed and assessed for areas of improvement and recovery.

It's very easy to say "we need to do this because other churches are doing it and it works for them and looks awesome". They may not be what God has in store for a particular church. So, indeed, the conversation to "turnaround" a church is different.

These times of change and the process of sorting things out and implementing change are by no means easy, nor should they be taken lightly. But obviously, many churches struggle and are in trouble operational, just as much as companies who find themselves losing importance and relevance in a crowded marketplace.

Communities need their churches. They need the church to be healthy as much as the church wants to impact their community back to health, spiritual and otherwise.

Pray, this #deaconThursday for churches struggling... to keep the doors open, to minster effectively, to work efficiently; to accomplish the plans and purposes God has called them to fulfill. May God bring insight and clarity as to what and where changes need to be made; may He grant courage and boldness to make the hard choices and have the difficult conversations that may be necessary to turn things around. Pray for wisdom and unity; that the changes that need to be made, would not be done so out of comparison or trends, but because of a true leading and prompting that it will increase and improve their ministry and the impact the church has on its congregation and community. May they seek the face of God first and foremost, not in fear of what is going wrong, but confident in the handiwork of God to use them mightily for the cause of Jesus Christ.

From good to great
From losing the battle to gaining victory
Operating with purpose and anointing
For the glory of God
And the advancement of the gospel.

- PNC

​





​In the episode, Red Mass, from the political drama, The West Wing, there comes a scene towards the end of the episode where one of the Senators has a conversation with the President.

The Senator relays the following information, as shared from a friend of his:

"He told me the most remarkable thing. He said a new pilot will fly into cloud cover. There'll be no visibility. And they'll check their gauges, they'll look at the artificial horizon, it'll show them level, but they won't trust it. So, they'll make an adjustment and then another and another... He said the number of new pilots who fly out of clouds completely upside-down would knock you out. My office will make arrangements for me to endorse you in the morning. You keep your eyes on the horizon, Mr. President."

Isn't that incredible?

We have accurate, working, reliable gauges in this life, that show us how we are doing and progressing along this flight called life and yet, for whatever reason, we don't trust.

The Word of God.
The testimony of others.
The counsel of Pastors and teachers, well-grounded and experienced advisors.
The genuine concern of beloved friends.
Not to mention, the prompting and leading of the Holy Spirit.

Then, we come out of situations total flipped... scratching our head, trying to figure out where on earth (or in heaven for that matter) we flew off course.

It certainly didn't feel like we were that far off at the time we made the adjustment. Yet, course-correction after course-correction without trusting and following the course map and the gauges in front of us; we really shouldn't be surprised. And we are anyway... epically surprised.

New in the faith.
New in a particular phase or age in life.
New in the pastorate.

Even when visibility is dangerously low... the Word of God remains, a light to my feet and a lamp unto my path. If we will but trust the gauges, we'll find ourselves coming out, right-side up.

Pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, for new pastors, regardless of the focus of ministry, that they would keep God and His Word at the forefront of the their lives and ministries. May the be cautious to not act so quickly on intuition and instinct, but that the Holy Spirit would lead, guide and direct their paths. May God's Word be the illumination they need as has been promised to us. Pray they would find and surround themselves with wise counsel and mentors in the pastorate and church leadership who will speak truth to them. May the learn and glean from those who have persevered and kept the faith, as they walk in accordance to the calling and purposes God has placed upon their lives to fulfill; that they would greatly impact the kingdom of God.

For those who know their God, shall do exploits.
May God accomplish the miraculous
As life is lived, one moment; one step at a time.
Walking with the Lord; led by the Holy Spirit.
That God may be glorified in word and deed.

- PNC

We all have our days where we just aren't feeling it.

There's just enough stuff going on in life that is causing frustration and angst; we don't feel like getting much done, nor going anywhere, or doing anything. Even work feels particularly dreadful.

There's a wide range of states of existence on the depression/anxiety spectrum and while it can be hard to differentiate at times if we are simply bummed, depressed or having an off day, the bottom line is that life happens to us all and any day can be a battle. Even for pastors and their spouses and families.

Yet as I thought about the Petra's song, For All Your Worth, I was reminded once again, that we are simply dust. Our worth is not in our body or the external possessions that fill our lives. Our body is the 39 cent box.

Our identity, hope and strength is found in Christ... our worth is in our soul and spirit; which transcends the time in which we have a body that breathes. From the highest head of state to the lowliest of one on the street, God values our worth as His creation and our soul for which He gave up His Son that we might have fellowship with Him.

While the struggle is real, it truly is a sad thought that we allow the temporal to so often stand in the way of the eternal importance and worth of who we are... from the pew to the pulpit.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for those pastors and church leaders struggling... with depression and anxiety; and even a sense that may yet be unknown, of who they are in Christ. May the be encouraged and strengthened by the love and grace of Almighty God. For those who have bought even a fraction of the lie of the enemy, that they are not loved and valued; pray such thoughts and temptations of thought be cast down. Pray a refreshing and renewal of the mind through the washing of the Word of God. Pray for wisdom, in conversations with family and friends and those who help them through this process and time in their lives. May their ministries not be derailed or detoured, but arise stronger and greater because of the miraculous healing of God in their hearts, minds and spirits.

Be of good cheer,
For greater is He who is in you
Than he that is in the world.
And Christ has overcome the world
Therefore, we are overcomers in Him.
For the glory of God.

- PNC​

"My friend posted a sermon clip yesterday morning before church, of Jentezen Franklin preaching a powerful message... an incredible illustration of the pizza box.

Essentially, what happens in our lives is or should  be in accordance with God's will and purposes, and yet, in our finite perspectives we get caught up in the packaging. The power and fulfillment of God's purposes being carried out in and through are lives (what's in the box) is what is of value.

Yet, we are thrown off because we are focused on the 39 cent box not looking how we think it should.
​
Of course, moments later, God confirmed this word... as I sat in service and Pastor preaches on God's Will for 2017. In the closing statements of his sermon, he describes the 4 components of God's will.

We often spend an overwhelmingly significant amount of time on the "what", which certainly is a critical, if not the primary piece of the puzzle. But we miss out so much because we don't consider nearly as important, the "when", the "where" and the "way".

We may get the "what" right, but if it's not in God's timing, then we are out of His will and trouble awaits.
We may get the "what" right, but if it's not in the place God has for us, then difficulty potentially awaits.
We may get the "what" right, but if we go about it the wrong way, we open the door for a struggle.

If it's easy for you and I to be thrown off, distracted and confused by the 39 cent box that God's Will comes delivered in, how much more for pastors and church leaders as they daily do the work of the Lord for the advancement of the gospel of Christ?

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors seeking the face of God and His will for their lives and their ministries. May God grant to them revelation, not only for what they are to be doing, but the when, where and the way to accomplish it. Pray they would not be detoured or distracted my the cosmetics of how God's will looks, but that they would remain set and steadfast to being open to be used by God as he sees fit. Though the struggle is real, may the be strengthened and encouraged by the Holy Spirit; that a grace would cover them for the times they have gotten it wrong, because they didn't properly consider the timing, location and direction of the "what" God had in store for them. Pray a clarity, as they go about their day... a break-through, whereby God might accomplish the miraculous, in a new and powerful way.

For the value of God's will is the message He speaks,
Not in the vessel He uses to deliver it.
May our will be set aside,
That God may perform His good and perfect work.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.
All glory and honor to God.

- PNC

It's pretty simple, really.

The more you stay "on task" the more you get done.

Every distraction, every interruption, every "I'm just checking something out for a second" (which quickly become 2 or 3 minutes),  pulls away your focus, energy and ultimately, your momentum.

Sure, you may still get quite a few things accomplished at the end of the day, but a few moments of honest reflection could quickly result in the realization that perhaps, you could and should have been further along than where you are.

For leaders, this frustration rises a few notches, when it carries over to the team. Stepping away to keep others focused and energized takes time and effort. All the more, negotiating any conflicts that arise along the way.

Whether it be paid staff, a team of volunteers or simply getting the kids help around the house, staying on task and reminding others to do the same robs us of time and energy and ultimately diminish both the effectiveness and efficiency of our best efforts.

It's not to say there shouldn't be some fun and rest along the way... nobody likes a harsh task-master. But there are real priorities and matters of importance to tend to, all the more for that which hangs in the balance of eternity.

**see how hard this is. I took a couple seconds to think about what to write in the prayer section and like 5 or 8 minutes later...**

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that the church and its' leadership would continue to be faithful in the ministry and work of the Lord that you have called them to. May they be encouraged and energized to stay focused and "on task" for what is at hand. Pray for the redeeming of time, for the days are evil. Pray for effective delegation and distribution of ministry, for indeed many hands make the load light. For the burdens and dreams that leadership carry, pray God would accomplish the miraculous in those situations and bring forth greatness that would glorify God.

That all may know,
The love and power that comes from Almighty God.
May whatever we find to do,
Do as unto the Lord.
With all that is within us
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

While driving in the state immediately southwest of the one in which I reside, I saw a billboard for a restaurant that caused me to consider this post.

It simply said:

Famous for food (BBQ, perhaps?)
Famous for friends
Famous for smiles

Sadly, all too often, the church is infamously known for something rather than famously known.

But isn't it amazing and at the same time, not surprising, the church of Jesus Christ would be known by a character trait that is not innate to humanity, but the very basis for God's every word and deed.

LOVE.

Every single perspective on human development and improvement, God is already there.

To live intentionally.
To speak clearly.
To engage authentically.
To listen attentively.
To share compassionately

The list could go in...

And yet, because God is love, there is no other way for Him continue.

Love compels intentionality, demands clarity, seeks authenticity, respects attentiveness and serves compassion.

Everything the church does, what we are known for doing and saying, should point point back to the person of Christ. For if it doesn't, then we are not known by and for who God is, but what He is not... for He is not the flawed and feeble attempts of greatness by a sinful-natured humanity.

Thus, as the church engages community, the words couldn't be any more true than when they were inspired by the Holy Spirit.

"If we have not LOVE, we are nothing."

Thanks, for taking a few moments out of this #communitySaturday, to join me in prayer; that the church of Jesus Christ as it engages and impacts the community around them, would be known as people who love. May they know our love for God and His love on display to them, through our lives. Pray our failures and mistakes would not distract or detour others from experiencing God; but prove all the more that life is meaningless and purposeless without God. May we not seek to be known for ourselves, but to be known for the love of God; to be His hands and feet extended. 

For it is not our goodness,
But His greatness.
That we would be driven to love,
By His love.
All is complete, in Christ alone.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Though we are probably on different plains of belief and ideology on both the political and spiritual spectrum, I thoroughly enjoy the screenwriting of Aaron Sorkin, creator of the epic television program The West Wing, as well as the shows' predecessor in movie format, The American President.

As I thought about one's belief in God and coming to decision for Christ, I remembered the words from President Andrew Shepherd, towards the close of Sorkin's aforementioned movie.

"America isn't easy. America is advanced citizenship. You gotta want it bad, 'cause it's gonna put up a fight. It's gonna say "You want free speech? Let's see you acknowledge a man whose words make your blood boil, who's standing center stage and advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a lifetime opposing at the top of yours. You want to claim this land as the land of the free? Then the symbol of your country can't just be a flag; the symbol also has to be one of its citizens exercising his right to burn that flag in protest. Show me that, defend that, celebrate that in your classrooms. Then, you can stand up and sing about the "land of the free"."

If you'll permit, to offer a substitute for America... Christianity.

Christianity isn't easy... you gotta want it!

God doesn't force people to come to faith. He is active in the affairs of humanity.
You gotta want it. You gotta want to see it.

A decision to follow Christ is rarely, if ever, made on impulse.

Eternity hangs in the balance.

As I reflected, I remembered the words of Coach Grant Taylor, from the movie Facing The Giants.

​"Following Jesus Christ is the decision that you're going to have to make for yourself. You may not want to accept it, because it'll change your life. You'll never be the same."

It's difficult, whether as the everyday believer, the charismatic pastor or the humble missionary to watch people go through life, not acknowledging God's handiwork, nor His gift of eternal life through Christ.

Christians aren't perfect... not by any stretch. But whatever people's reasons for refusing the greatness of the grace of God, one thing is sure... many have testified, their life before Christ and their decision to accept Him was not taken lightly. Not without objection; nor deep thought, study and reflection. His Word is true... He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him, whether for Him or after Him.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, that God would accomplish the miraculous, in the conversations and opportunities taking place, where people are hearing the Good News of Christ. May the truth be revealed in their hearts and the eye-scales removed, that the may see the glory, that is the goodness of God. Pray the love and forgiveness of Christ would indeed change lives. May the hesitations, objections and uncertainties that stand in the way fall to the side... that nothing would separate people from the love of Christ. Not even whatever, long-held beliefs and perceptions of God may exist before-hand.

Changed hearts.
Changed lives.
Won by One.
For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

There's a reason the concept of divide and conquer works.

It makes the battle easier to manage.

Depending on which side of the battle you are on, this may seem like your days are numbered, but the strategy is effective.

We have a saying in our church... the larger we get, the smaller we need to get. It's usually in reference to our LifeGroups, inspired by Acts 2:42 and it sums up the intentionality we must take to ensure nobody gets lost in the ministry... thtat we stay connected rather than feeling unneeded or unwanted

Speaking of unneeded, one is always needed in the body of Christ.

The "larger/smaller"  concept accurately portrays the importance of workload and delegation; for any organization, but especially the church. After a conversation with a good friend yesterday, it dawned on me...

The trouble with reusing the same staples all the time, is that they eventually break. So while, operationally, it's good that you always have a select group of people who can be relied upon to help get things done or serve in ministry; if the team that carries the workload is never growing and interchanging, then the people who serve as staples are that much closer to breaking and burn-out.

Friends, this should not be so.

Pray, this #deaconThursday, for churches and staff whose people and volunteers are running low on energy, as they continue to give and pour themselves out for the ministry. May they be strengthened and encouraged in the good work they have set out to do and fill. May they be rejuevenuated, even this hour as they go about their day, that God work the miraculous in their lives; whatever may be going on outside the four-walls of the church. Pray for wisdom and discernment, as churches navigate operational challenges and make decisions regarding ministry assignments and tasks. Pray for an increase in service and a growth in the body of Christ; not only in numbers but in maturity... that the church moves forward in prayer, as well as when people step up and become more involved.

That we may live to serve.
God. Others.
For the encouragement of the church.
For the glory of God.
For the advancement of the gospel of Christ.

- PNC