A number of weeks ago, I was loading YouTube on the flat screen (I forgot what I was going to watch), but before the clip started, an ad started playing. It turns out, it was the promotional video for the Church of Scientology. Something inside of me said, watch this (rather than taking advantage of the "skip ad" button). For the next 8 or 10 minutes, I sat, as they talked about what they are accomplishing in spreading the message of their religion.

On the surface, it's hard to deny, it's impressive. The organizational set-up, the distribution of materials, the building programs, the community of people... of course, there is no mention anywhere of the person of Jesus Christ; so to watch the level of their effectiveness and efficient for something other than the Gospel of Christ was disconcerting at the very least.

Now, of the past couple of weeks, A&E has aired Leah Remini's documentary on what really happens behind the facade. I finally got to watch the first two episodes, back to back, as they played them again. (The third one airs the night of 12/13). The stories and the lives that have been affected are utterly incredible. Families torn apart and lives utterly destroyed from the tactics of those who rise up against them.

I simply couldn't fathom... to acheive such a level of effectiveness that ultimately destroys people, while professing to make them better and save the planet.

Meanwhile, the church of Jesus Christ, faces many battles. Really, too numerous to start listing them. Ultimately, though, it's God who works in the hearts and lives of people as He reveals Himself and makes Himself known. It's not an organization who uses people to spread the message of man, but the Spirit of God who compels us to share the message of saving grace of Jesus Christ. We do not seek to ruin those who don't come to the place of confessing Christ is Lord and Savior, but pray God's will be accomplished in their lives as He desires that none should end find themselves in eternity without the presence of Jesus Christ.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that God's anointing would rest upon the church; that He would  go before us and prepare hearts to hear the message of Christ. May we not rest on the laurels of what we have achieved, but on what God by His sovereign Hand has worked and moved on our behalf as we pray His will be accomplished here on Earth. Though tempting, may we not compare our efforts and accomplishments to what other churches and religions may achieve, but focus on God; that we may be found faithful and obedient to the purpose and plans He has called us to not in pursuit of one man's thinking, but God's divine desire to commune with His Creation... an opportunity made available, because He loved the World enough to send Christ as payment for our sins.

Faithful to the cause of Jesus Christ
For it is the power of salvation,
That we have relationship with Almighty God
Not because of who we are,
But who He is.
For His glory and honor, we pray.

​- PNC

I am truly, not a fan, of the phrase "it takes a village."

But the impact a community makes on a family unit certainly can not be underestimated.

Conversely, it is the power of families coming together that create a community.

As 2016 comes to a close, we live in times where we are somehow, strangely enough, both the most connected we have ever been, while simultaneously, the most disconnected. We are more interested in the online conversation than we are face-to-face. Yet, we use Facetime, like it's the same thing. Not that it's bad, but it's still not the same.

We speak on things we otherwhise wouldn't. We play a part that doesn't exist in reality. Technology has allowed us to present ourselves as other than who we are. Pandora's box of misunderstanding has been swung wide open, as if making it's grand entrance through the opening of French doors.

"Good morning, World. I'm hear to wreak havoc in your relationships" - Misunderstanding

Sadly, it's passing on to the next generation. The dysfunction in families is causing unhealthy approaches as to how people of all ages relate, once they step into the public square. It just goes to show how progess we've yet to go... almost as if technology has taken us backwards, seemingly contradictory to the believe that the evolutionary process of life always leads to improvements on a bigger, better, grander scale. 

For all of man's faults, we must understand that we can not fix everything, solve everything nor manage the aftermath and consequences of life and our decisions. We need the help and the grace of God to permeate our lives and souls anew and afresh.

Pray with me, this #communitySaturday, for families... for all the forms and friendships that have interwoven into what one terms their family, may God help them and strength them to function and communicate in healthy dialogue and action. Pray for the body of Christ; the family of God... as the church has struggled to understand and impact community, and likewise, been greatly misunderstood by society... may God grant us grace in our failures and boldness in our conversations. May we be the salt and light He has called us. May we be the helping hand to those in need, the shoulder for those in mourning and the friend to those abondoned and neglected. Pray the church would positively impact their community for the cause of Christ; to effectively communicate the Gospel... 

For He desires all to be a part of His family,
The village of Heaven, if you will.
Relationship with God,
Made available through Christ Jesus.
Not because of us, but His love for us.

- PNC

Well, it didn't take long once December hit, for the weather to be felt on the roadways. Yesterday morning, white-out conditions out of thin air resulted in a massive, real-life version of bumper cars and semi-trucks. Fortunately, I was on the road and a few hours away when it occurred, as it happened on the expressway just a handful of miles away from home.

Unfortunately, however, the sheetmetal disaster claimed the lives of 3 people and sent a handful more lives to area hospitals.

Meanwhile, as I was scrolling through my newsfeed on social media last night, a friend posted a freaky story of their collision with a deer. They didn't know what had happened until emergency services arrived. All they felt was the aftermath of a shattered driver's side window blow-out. Just reading the incident was unsettling. Thankful, they are ok, although her son won't soon forget the image of his mom practically covered in glass.

These are not the images people conjur up when using the cliche phrases of "life's a trip" or "life's an adventure".

(side-note insert: Astronaut John Glenn has passed away. Talk about an incredible trip, whose logbook will be entry-less from this day forward.)

Indeed it is, but not like this. Just another reminder, that each and every day is a gift. That tomorrow is not promised to anyone; neither is the next split-second for that matter. It can all change in an instant. It can all be gone in the same.

For all the journeys we travel and pray for safe goings to and fro, I couldn't help consider the miles of missionaries. Their stories. Their encounters. Their travels. What they have witnessed and heard. The roads are just as treacherous for them, as we travel. Unknowns abound and everything can change just as quick for them, as it does for us.

Thus, pray this #missionsFriday, for the safe travels of missionaries across the globe. Pray a hedge of protection, in their comings and goings; safety for the families and colleagues as they work to advance the gospel of Christ. Literally, pray guide would light their paths and guide their steps; where they should go and when, the routes they should take, who they should go with... nothing is ever random with a sovereign God. Even in simple decisions such as these, may God be glorified as they testify about the practical, tangible ways in which God reveals Himself and intervenes in the affairs of men.

Not willing that any should perish, 
But all come to repentance
Through salvation in Christ Jesus.
Led by the Spirit,
As we go into all the world.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Nobody plans a day 3, on "life" happens to all of us. I certainly didn't.

The past couple of months leading up to December have been... draining. And not just for me. A number of close friends have had their battles over the same period of time. Hearing their stories doesn't negate the difficulty of my own. It does however bring a sesne of comfort... knowing that God is with each of us as we work through life. It doesn't make their situation better or worse by comparison, nor does it diminish the troubles of my own or anybody else, for that matter.

God knows where we all are. He knows what we all face. He has a plan and a purpose for the troubles that surround us.

In our finite minds however, we're looking short term. Trying to get the day, week or month; to the next pay cycle, through the holidays or past the big project at work. Some days you look at the bank account, and it's just getting through the night, putting kids to bed and trying to avoid thinking about anything of importance.

Like an item that reappears on my radar screen come the end of January. Seriously? It's time for this to get added to the mix. So not ready.

It doesn't matter what it is. Nor how big or significant. Budget hiccup or budget buster.
God knows and cares and He's got it handled.

Of course, you know what happens next.

Churches and ministries are in the same place. Trying to get through the end of the year, through December's activities and the special events and services that revolve around the holidays.

Who is thinking and planning logistics for how things will play out in the 12 months that follow New Year's Eve (all of 3 weeks away, give a few day). Somebody is.

And while it be difficult, as I considered the situations and circumstances they may be facing, I know nothing, even in light of this; one more responsibility that has been added on my plate.

There will always be "one more thing".

Pray, this #deaconThursday, for those in church leadership and operations that are running out of steam, as it where. For those struggling to maintain just to finish out the year, pray God would strengthen and undergird their spirits. May God accomplish the miraculous, this holiday season and be their provision and portion, no matter what difficulties and challenges they may be up against, whether in personal matters or in ministry. Pray God would help them to remain focused; let not anxiety rise up within them. May their be a quiet confidence of faith, in the sovereign workings of God; that He would accomplish His good and perfect plan as it unfolds before their eyes.

Strength, if one day at a time.
For yesterday is behind us.
Tomorros is before us.
Today is the gift we enjoy.
To live for Christ,
For the glory of God.

- PNC

 My social media profile kicked up a memory the other day, from four years ago. Perhaps one of the roughest December's we've ever had. Truly, life changing. For my wife. For our family. For those closest to us.

As I reflected yesterday on the words I had written hours before going to work, I couldn't help but fast forward the concerns and challenges we face, in light of young people and kids. We want what's best for them, even though we know and understand "life" will happen to them and they will miss the mark as they progress through this life.

While talking with my friend yesterday morning, I recognized his wisdom, as he acknowledged he could offer advice... truth in a spirit of love, but understand where I was mentally and that his words wouldn't... well, help.

It wasn't that they weren't valuable. It was that we all reach places in life where all the advice, counsel and support does little until a resolution is made.

Difficult enough as an adult.
Is it easier or harder for a child?

Add to this, the factor of impressionism. Parents and family are one thing. Speaking into young people outside of that relationship can be challenging.

For pastors... it's almost hard to fathom. To watch kids endure difficulty, challenges, stress... tragedy.

Help? Yes.
Speak life? Certainly.
The love of Christ? Absolutely

But to know what to say that will move them forward in life and closer to God, rather than set them back and prompt withdrawal... talk about the need to choose our words carefully. Typing this has me reflecting on conversations with my own kids.

Probably a good point at which to pray!

This, #youthPastorWednesday, pray God grant wisdom and direct the conversations between pastors and young people. May they lead and encourage the power of living a life of faith in Christ. Pray God would grant supernatural insight and bring revelation; in the handing and navigating of circumstances and personalities, emotions and mental states... that the Holy Spirit would indeed help pastors be ministers of the love, compassion and grace of Christ. While the holiday season brings extra stress and issues of many kinds for people of all ages; tomorrow is not promised to any of us. Life as we know it can change in a fraction of a eye-blink. May God ungird pastors, preparing to deal with the unknowns of life, for both their own and those they reach.

For the glory of God.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.
We were created for fellowship with God.
May many come to restoration;
Despite life's attempts to distract, detour, derail and destroy.

- PNC

So, by the time our church's 3-day Christmas event came to a close Sunday night, you could tell. Everybody was wiped out. 

The planning. The preparation. Set-up. Tear-down. Materials, Resources. Funding. Logistics.

It's quite the outreach from the finished product. It's overwhelmingly impressive from behind the scenes.

And though he was smiling and everyone was in high spirits as things wound down Sunday night, the look on my worship pastor's face said exactly what was on everyone's mind. 

Where's a hot shower and a warm bed?

December is crazy for everybody.
Stressful for all of us.
Exciting. Disappointing. 
Joyful. Disconcerting.
Grateful. Uncertain.
Rejoicing. Mourning.

In churches across the globe, where ministry opportunities abound and the risk of burnout is high, it's all hands on deck... at time where many, if they could be honest, would rather not. They may not give much thought to actually expressing such feelings, publicly or in the strictest of confidence, yet pastors like many of us, would rather take the gratitude of our blessings and get away for a while, rather than gather all the more.

Getting through the month of December itself may require a miracle, whether it be in the spirit of Christmas or otherwise.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for those who are exhausted and on the verge... perhaps not from burnout, but the temptation to at least check-out temporily. May they be strengthened; body, mind, soul and spirit. For what weighs them done outside of ministry, may God provide supernaturally, for whatever needs and challenges they face; financially, relationally, emotionally. Pray they would be renewed, refreshed and revitalized. Though this can be a season of gloom and despair as a reality, pray God would enlighten and minister anew and afresh; shedding His glorious light upon the affairs of men... however trying the times may present themselves.

That would was designed to ruin us,
Would reveal Christ in us.
For we walk by faith,
Not be sight.
Out of darkness and into His marvelous Light.

- PNC

Though it's been a while since I've brought this phenomena to your attention when it's happened, it does happen quite frequently... times that I will go through my day, realizing that I have no idea what to write for the next days' post and invariably, God will drop something in my spirit or bring something to the forefront of my mind in short order.

And I do mean short order... often within a couple of minutes; a surprising number of times I felt as though I could count the second that had passed. It's happened just that quick.

By later afternoon yesterday, I still had nothing. It started making me a little nervous. God has always come through as I've written this and yesterday, I was just... there was no direction. No inclination. Nothing passing through my mind that the Holy Spirit was standing with high-lighter in hand, ready to say "there it is."

As I pondered what to write, the "there it is" moment happened.

Is this how pastors feel when they prepare for a sermon?

A wealth of experience; a library full of notes, stories, and biographies. Commentaries seemingly too numerous to count. Their shouldn't be a lack of insight. Not to mention the obvious, they are preachers of the message of Christ. How can something in God's Word not jump out at you?

Yet, for all the occassions I've heard, of a pastor ready to preach a sermon or a message, and the day of, or perhaps the night before... maybe even moments before stepping to the pulpit, the Holy Spirit has said, "can it... I've something else for you to say." Alternatively, what happens as the week comes to a close, they have sought the face of God and prayed and there is nothing standing out as the basis for a sermon.

I know that seems hard to believe that a pastor couldn't find a gold nugget somewhere and not turn it into a 3-pt sermon in quick fashion, but I've no doubt that it happens. For those who genuinely want a fresh word; that God would speak and direct their life, ministry and congregation... they do wait and seek Him to speak and direct what comes forth from the pulpit.

They are not desirous to fill an hour time slot with fluff any more than I am to simply fill a few minutes of your day with my insignificant perspective.

Thus, pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for those pastors finding themselves in places of difficulty; in their search and struggle for what God would desire to speak to their church through them. Pray for a renewal in their heart and mind. Times of refreshing to overflow. May God bring about perspective and insight in their studies, as the Holy Spirit would stand with high-lighter in hand, ready to help. Pray sermons and messages would be delivered with the anointing of God, not because of the one speaking, but because of their willingness to be used by God. May their be and remain, a humility about their ministry... that it is not about them and what they bring about, but the Work that God accomplishes in the lives of people by one's obedience to the calling God has placed upon their life.

To preach the Gospel
To reach the lost.
To be ministers of the love and grace of Christ.
For the glory of God.
Whose Word will not return void.

- PNC

 We can desire to do many things, but sometimes our energy level does not rise to occassion. It's not a lack of motivation... we truly to do want to accomplish what is set before us or complete what awaits us.

It's that our energy level from within, whether physcially, emotionally, mentally or spiritually, is saying, "Yeah... no. Not yet. Not right now."

After some time, whether the energy level is ready or not, you may find yourself in a position where you no longer have a choice. Time for delay no longer exists, and thus you are either scrambling as the time runs out or your frustration with the matter becomes the primary motivator that you just want to get it done and off your mind.

Whatever the situation, there is so much to accomplish; so much that each of us are able to accomplish. People set examples for us, daily, and many watch in wonder as to how they do it.

They are effective in their method.
They are efficient in their process.

The results speak volumes. And many watch impressed, not realizing the potential lies with all of us to do and accomplish impressive things ourselves at which others would be amazed.

It's just having the energy that rises to meet the motivation that results in action.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that God would give rest to the weary and down-trodden. May He strengthen and quicken those who remain focused on Him; trusting that He will provide all they have need of when when they feel they are running low. Pray God would accomplish the miraculous as people set out to accomplish what awaits them. May their be a grace and a covering, as people work through places of difficulty; that actions, attitudes and words would not ruin or detract from the task at hand, even when problems arise and frustrations interfer. 

God, prepare the way,
Make our paths known.
To see the plans you have laid,
Enegy and motivation to fulfill our calling.
For Your glory.

- PNC

It's the first weekend in December... which means it's time once again, or the 19th time for those keeping count, that my church has presented it's biggest production event of the year, to our community... a drive-through presentation of the Christmas story. Last night, probably close to 400 cars went through... annually, roughly 5000 people will be presented wiith the life and message of Christ.

As people wait in line, with pizza, and are later greeted with hot cocoa and cookies (the line for this event started an hour before the gates opened) I can't help but keep considering the effect that is accomplished by those who genuinely go above and beyond to show kindness and generousity to those they dont' know.

It's awesome to see people's responses.

I experienced a similar phenomenon last month, at the event for pastors. I took the opportunity to hand out business cars with the www.pray4pastors.com address, to let pastors and church leaders know they were being prayed for on a daily basis. In kind, the response of many was one of pleasant surprise. People loved the idea, appreciated the gesture and smiled in kindness and thankful that someone would consider their well-being and take action in an effort to help.

Of course, we are imperfect people with busy schedules, lots on our minds and to-do lists and struggles and frustrations along the way. Thus, even in church, we as a people struggle to show the love of Christ in tangible ways by stepping outside of ourselves and sharing kindness and generousity to those around us with a genuine and heart-felt "God blesss you."

Yet, the incredible happens when we remain open to be used by God to make an impact on those around, even when it calls for sacrifice from us and from our lives.

While difficult, it's worth it... even if we never see the reward this side of eternity.

Pray, this #communitySaturday, that the church would always be ready and willing to be tangible extensions of love and grace of Christ. Pray we would not be so consumed in the busy-ness of life, that we would fail to consider how we may be blessing to those around us, even if it does require a sarcrifice on our part, whether great or small, through our time, talent or treasure. May our interactions with the community, be genuine, heart-felt and sincere; abounding in love and speaking truth.  Pray the frustrations and struggles of life would not dissuade us from desiring to be used by God, impacting our communities with the gospel of Christ.

For it is no longer us,
But Christ living through us.
That people may see Him
When they engage with us.
For the cause of Jesus Christ
To God be the glory.

- PNC

Leave it to the state I love, in which I've lived my entire life, to begin displaying December-like weather, on the day the calendar actually flips to the first of said month.

Yes, I spent my day of travels in the rain/snow mixture from heaven... cold enough to look like snow or a fine sleet at times; warm enough to sound and feel like rain, making everything more wet upon landing than change the color of the surface it landed upon.

Meanwhile, for the past three days, my oldest has stayed home from school... battling a nasty cough and a general "not feeling so great" demeanor. In typical state fashion, last week the weather couldn't make up it's mind. Frost on the windshield one morning... guys catching the open road one last time on their motorcycles the following afternoon. Somebody even snuck in a round of golf that same day!  

All which got me thinking... missionary work is hard work. We pray for the struggles and the challenges, the loneliness and the toll it takes on the mind and heart and relationships and family.

But let's talk about the weather.

Seriously. The physical change of conditions on the mission field alone, can prompt questions of "what are we doing here?" Especially if there are kids or teens in tow.

The sacrifice is great for many. Quite too much for others. Questionable for the rest of us, as our first indicator is based on location. Yet, there remains an element of practicality and logistics to the equation of mission field. Prayer, direction, calling and purpose...unbelievable steps of faith; such things we understand are a part of the process.

Yet, when it comes to the physical conditions and the logistical fortitiude of making everything "come together" and "work"... well, one trusts in the Lord, but then must act it out.

Yes the work is God. He knows the plans and purposes. The venturing out for the gospel, for the cause of Christ... the entire process is a step of faith. That, though, doesn't diminish the physical demands placed on the body, the emotional burden carrried by the soul and the pacing of the mind in search of understanding.

Pray, this #missionsFriday for strength, in good weather and in the storms. For the adjustments that missionaries and their familiies encounter; for the physical conditions, for the preparations and logistical issues... pray God would go before them and provide all they have need off. May the unknown and uncertain not stand in the way of their faith or cause them to hesitate their ability to step out in pursuit of the calling and promise God has in store. For kids and teens, as an integral part of the journey, may God do a work in their lives as they watch and witness their parents be used of God in advancement of the gospel of Christ. May their lives be a testament to the goodness and greatness of God

May God show Himself faithful.
To those who are apart of the harvest.
To those who labor in the fields.
For the glory of God,
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I considered yesterday, the struggle recently mentioned, about pastors who are bi-vocational. What a struggle, to try to keep your home operational while ministering in a church that perhaps isn't able to sustain it's operationg budget. 

Small churches understand this pain all too well. My first "real" job, post college, struggled some months, financially. The receivables weren't there and so pay-day arrived, sometimes without a paycheck. Other times, it arrived with a disclaimer. "Don't cash this until further notice", or whatever date was 2 or 3 days out. Talk about stressful.

Having to struggle on one income is tough. Working two jobs gets old. Working three jobs is begging for exhaustion. We all do what we have to do.

But each of those is not only a balancing act in and of itself, but can throw us out of balance quite quickly. Physically, emotionally, spiritually, mentally... the depletion level is rapid; although some days more noticably than others.

Having experienced such working situations myself, it didn't take more than a second to consider how much more of a challenge it would be to have multiple jobs and one of them involve being on the church staff. As the church struggles to make financial ends meet at certain times of the year, those helping to keep the doors open are suddenly scrambling themselves to make sure they stay afloat.

Of course, this leads back to the whole "making sure you have the right people on the bus" as far as organizational development. Such demands and constraints upon employees and volunteers when organizations face such levels of instability can prompt certain personalities to exit. Anyone else sensing a downward spiral?

A struggling church is as sensitive to changes in their community as a fledging start-up is to changes in their marketplace. Any given day could range from unbelievably awesome to unfathomable agony. Yet life keeps moving and so to, does the search for solutions... for the solvency of the church depends the Sovereign Hand of God moving miraculously on our behalf. For His Glory of course, but with the added benefit of keeping our sanity.

Would you join me, this #deaconThursday? Pray, of course, for pastors that are bi-vocational; but also for staff and other people and leaders within the church that are working full and part-time, as well as working other jobs and businesses in their community as a means of providing for the families and households. May God strengthen them, even this hour. Pray financial provision and break-through... for bills that are past-due, for debts that are trying to be dug out from, for needs that are on the horizon with no answer in sight. May the circumstances be opportunities for God's glory to be displayed. For the churches... may God raise them up. May God open their doors, to meet specific, tangible needs in the communities they serve. Pray God's provision, for resources, for people and opportunities for effective ministry.

May they witness the supernatural
In the midst of the struggle.
Peace, despite the surrounding storm.
In advancement of the Gospel of Christ
For the Kingdom of God.

- PNC