What is going on in this life?

We all have our struggles and battles. Some circumstance are the annoyance comparable to a stone in your shoe. Others are life-changing on par with the house being on fire. And sadly, some people are living that reality... both figuratively and literally.

Some are facing serious challenges, serious problems and incredibly complex solutions for which people have searched and discussed for years. And of course, it doesn't help that stories that wouldn't have made it past the local news two decades ago are now worldwide viral news in a matter of two hours. 

And so in the midst of whatever is going on in your personal and professional life, enter the onslaught of social media.

Nothing interrupts that life better than a kid who tells you they need help with theirs. Which come to think of it, that's probably the same interruption that God sits in waiting to hear from us.  Not that we interrupt His day, but He waits patiently for us to seek His face and call upon His name.

Yet, the enemy of our souls attacks us on both fronts. With one strategy. Busy-ness. Too busy to interrupt God with our problems and struggles. Too busy to be bothered with the interruption from those who need us most, and more importantly, need to know that they too can approach the throne of grace with any thing that they encounter in this life.

The greatest lesson we can ever learn; the greatest lesson we can ever teach... God wants to hear from you!

Yet sadly, it just too easy to leave God out of even the littlest of matters regarding our days. Which is the beauty of children. They remind us that can come to God with even the littlest of cars and concerns... regardless of whether they make the local or viral newsfeed.

On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray that as much as we understand that we need to hear from God, may even pastors be reminded that God desires to hear from them. Pray they would not be distracted and overcome by busy-ness. May they keep their time with God in focus and priority; not allowing even the importance of ministry to stand in the way of spending time in His presence. Pray that God would help those involved in ministry to kids and youth. Even in the simplest lessons of faith and life; may those lessons and principles resonate deep in the hearts, minds and souls... that for all their days they would love and serve the Lord with all that is within them.

That they would bless His name,
For all their days.
A disciplined life of faith,
Earlier and greater than what may be true for us.
For God is continually at work within us.

- PNC

Perhaps it's the flurry of current events, (and I hope after three years, you know my heart... I truly pray that God helps these not sound boring and repetitious), but my mind and spirit has been circling around the concept of trust again, as we pray for Associate Pastors.

We've prayed numerous times for pastors to have discernment when it comes to who they surround themselves, that they would upright and wise people of God. And while that prayer is still very much necessary and relevant, I wonder how often we look in the mirror with the prayer and desire long before we are in a place of trust and responsibility, that we would be and become people who would one day be entrusted with such positions.

Sure, such desires are always looked at from the positive, highlight moments if you will; often lacking a full understanding of the not so great moments, circumstances and conversations that come with that position. It's as if it's one of the few positions that you can't fully grasp an appreciation and understanding of until it has been lived first-hand.

Will I be found trust-worthy?  Well, that depends.

Largely upon me. Am I living and behaving in ways that build trust and create confidence?

Is it possible that in such moments where trust is broken and betrayed, it is not because of a misjudgement on the part of the one who bears the betrayal, but a wavering of the betrayers' commitment to be and be found trustworthy? I don't know, I'm just asking.

If I don't allow something to fall through the cracks as it depends on me; then I don't have to worry about someone else asking how they missed something as if it depended on them. I hope that's understandable... and if not, my first prayer is that God brings clarity as you read this; perhaps even a second time.

On that note; however, let's pray this #associatePastorTuesday, that all pastors would be committed to personal being people who can be trusted; people of great faith who live with character and walk with integrity. While they walk humbly before God, pray they would also walk upright before man. While understanding our imperfection, may that not stand in the way of making every attempt to walk according to the will and Word of God in both our own words and deeds. May the institution of the church be a place of that glorifies God because of the people who gather there live lives that reflect their personal devotion to glorify God.

Indeed, for His glory alone.
And the advancement of the kingdom of Heaven.

- PNC

I don't know about you, but I keep finding myself somewhat in awe, of just how many #seniorPastorMonday posts are prompted by something that was said during a Sunday morning service. I don't plan it or intend it to work out that way; I just keep an open mind that perhaps a unique perspective might come from the pulpit.

That said, Pastor started a new series on what God mean when He said "church". Specifically, He was talking about building the church and the distinction between the original use of the word.

Jesus was talking about building the church as the people of God, or "Ecclesia" rather than "kirch", which is church as the institution.

And you don't have to look very far, even in Jesus time to understand the difference. His conversations and interactions with the Pharisees and religious leaders should tell you all you need to know between one's focus of church in terms of the people and relationships versus church as known by its building, traditions, theology, dogma and so forth.

The latter is why so many people have a problem with the "church" in these modern times. The problems that people focus on don't revolve around those who are building relationships and community to share the Gospel and the love of Christ, but rather what's wrong with the institution and it's traditions; the religious exercises and contradictions between theology and religious practice. And somewhere in the middle of all of that, people have gotten hurt and offended and upset, resulting in wanting nothing to do with "organized religion".

Yet, the most basic "organization" of the Ecclesia form of church, is God's promise that where two or more are gathered in His name, He will be in their midst. You could have "church" in your favorite coffee shop today as you read this and pray for pastors! And iced coffee is awesome, by the way... you should try it.

There was so much in this sermon that was on point... it was just that good. But as we go to prayer, Pastor pointed out that the landscape of our nation and indeed our world, is filled with beautiful, amazing structures called Church. At one time filled with the people of God. And for whatever reason, at some point, there was a shift... when it became less about the gathering of God's people and instead, something to do. Less about relationship and instead religious practice. Tradition instead of compassion. Protection instead of engagement.

Now they sit dormant... a remnant of the kingdom of God, instead of vibrant, active community of believers with an incredible history of service for the cause of Jesus Christ.

Thus, on this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for the open churches of today. May their focus be and remain on being "Ecclesia". Pray especially for those pastors and churches that are perhaps on the verge of making a dangerous transition; where religious practice and tradition are dominating the conversation and experience. For those that are struggling to see a fresh and miraculous move of God, pray for a revelation of what needs to be changed. Pray for a return to knowing God and having a fresh revelation of who He is and who He has called the community of believers to exemplify. May church not simply be a gathering or an activity, but pray that it would an experience where people seek the face of God and see Christ in those around them. Not something to do, but an opportunity to engage in relationship with both God and man.

For we are called not to do church,
But to be the church.
For it is in being the church,
To which people were added daily.
It is God who builds it
For His glory.

- PNC

Isn't amazing, the power of communication?

Statements can be expressed with only a look.
Other statements, can be made only once and have an ever-lasting impact.

I'm thinking of a guy in to the Dennis Prager show on Friday and shared the advice he saved with his daughter and soon to be son-in-law before they walked down the aisle. He looked at his future SIL and told him that nothing he could ever do would make his daughter happy. He continued, by telling him that that didn't absolve him of the responsibility of doing everything he could every day, to make his daughter happy.

Wow. What profound truth! And to do this day, they are happily married and I'm sure they will never forget that advice.

Then there's the conversation that I had yet again, with my oldest daughter, before getting ready for church.

God loves you. We love you. And that's all that matters.
God has a plan for your life. He wants what's best for you. And that's what we want too.

And that's what matters.
And I will win this conversation every time... because I would rather fight for you, than fight with you.

How many times, did I have horrible days at school, and yet that was the message I heard from my parents. Often. Repeatedly. Daily. And yet, they knew then what I know now. Some messages are worth having to tell seemingly constantly, to ensure the right message reaches the depths of one's soul so that when they are old, they will not forget the words they heard in their youth.

Which is exactly what I told my daughter. I want you to grow to be an adult who knows who they are and whose they are and I will fight your feelings with truth every time. If for no other reason, than I'm Dad and this is what I'm here to do.

Does that not sound like the very message that humanity needs to hear from our Heavenly Father? And how often do we have our days where we need that message from yet. And as much as He never tires of telling us of His love and destiny for our lives, neither should we grow tired in repeatedly sharing the same message.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray the message of the Gospel, and the grace and love of God would be effective as it goes forth. Whether it's heard for the first time or the thousandth, may the clarity reach the depths of the heart in those who need to hear it. May it be well-received and life changing. Pray the power of the Holy Spirit would move in the midst of those who gather together. Pray for the conversations and interactions that will occur among both friends and strangers; that the right words would be spoken, advice given and help offered.

May lives be transformed,
By the truth of God
For His glory
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Well, it took all week, but I finally remembered, from Sunday, the question I wanted to pose for this pastor #seniorPastorMonday. But alas, it's #missionsFriday and the question is just as relevant for missionaries as it is for pastors.

Sunday morning, Pastor relayed the story of Horatio Spafford, as we sang a modern version of It Is Well, during praise and worship.

After losing his children in a shipwreck, his wife somehow surviving, he pens the song en route to pick up his wife. The often untold sequel to the tragedy is that his son was born three years after the shipwreck, only to live a very short life of 4 years himself.

Solitude faces great loss... which is usually the point and time that many become lost themselves.

Those without Christ, surely have that experience.
Those who believe still encounter and struggle with that experience.
And ministry is no different, either.

So, what do you do in those moments? Dig deep.

As we sang through the It Is Well once again, I found myself pondering the words of David, when he was on the run and hiding in caves.

Why are you so downcast, oh my soul.. Put your trust in God!

Nobody could offer words of encouragement or support. Nobody could empathize nor sympathize with his experience and level of frustration. When all was said and done, he knew only God could deliver him. And having an understanding of that power, he knew it was the only and right thing to do.

Thus, he put the imperative upon himself.

To my spirit and my soul, Arise and trust God!

Hard as it may be, given the other choices and places in which you could put your trust, why would you?
It is the good, right and easy thing to do. A struggle at times, but worth it.

On this #missionsFriday, pray for those struggling with a downcast soul and frustrated spirit. May they be encouraged by the power of the Holy Spirit, and quickened, to dig deep within them and place their trust in God anew and afresh. Whatever they face, whatever has come against them, pray that faith would arise to a greater degree. May they not be overcome with anxiety and worry, but walk with boldness and confidence in the hand and work of God upon their lives and their ministries.

For all that we don't understand
For all that we shouldn't be able to endure
We do so by grace and strength of God.
Full of love. Sovereign over all.
For His glory alone.

- PNC

Leadership is an interesting dynamic, particularly when it comes to team-building.

You want people who understand the direction and buy in to the vision as well as step in and do whatever needs to be done to move a group or organization forward towards the desired goal or outcome. At the same time, you don't want a group of "yes-men", for who knows what will be missed, overlooked or ignored all in the name and effort of keeping the peace, keeping one happy or keeping in their good graces.

Hence, one of my favorite scenes from the show, The West Wing, when the Chief of Staff offers a job to a lawyer whose political party affiliation is not the same as the administrations'. She has dreamed of working in the White House "since she was 12", but never imagined it would be for the opposing party. Meanwhile, the CoS continues to make his case, appealing to her sense of duty. Ultimately, he gives a great reason why she should join the team, as Associate White House Counsel.

"The President likes smart people who disagree with him."

Not many leaders specifically pick people who disagree with them. And while it might not be a good idea to have a full team of disagreeing people, having someone who can bring a different perspective because they operate from a different belief system has it's advantages. Will you ever come to agree on anything? Maybe. But what happens in the course of the conversation is powerful.

New questions are posed. Premises are challenged. Understanding is gained. Perspective is widened. Experience is shared. And who knows... as happened in a later episode, the outsider might just turn someone around on an issue, making for a better decision and outcome regarding the issue at hand.

So, on this #deaconThursday, pray that God would grant discernment to pastors as to who they need and should surround themselves with when it comes to counsel, advice and input. While there are elements of faith and doctrine that they should absolutely be in agreement regarding church leadership and ministry, pray that they would be in agreement because they were able to work through a conversation and the differences of opinion rather than simply saying 'yes'. May their differences in opinion and perspective not stand in the way of them coming together for the cause of Christ and advancing the kingdom of Heaven. Pray God would perform the miraculous, through the acts of submission and willingness to serve in ministry; even when decisions and plans don't go as they would have liked, hoped and planned.

A unified force
Because of a commitment to work through the differences
For the glory of God

- PNC

We've all had those mornings. The ones where you don't want to get out of bed. Isn't it amazing how the body knows when you need extra rest; even on the mornings you have every intention and plan of getting up and out to a great and early start. But the body knows what it has need of; much like God knows.

My youngest sleeps in, as though not having a care in the world. And then there's adulthood... and we lose that ability. Yet as I thought about this post, I couldn't help but recall the reminder that God cares for the birds in the air and the lilies of the field... then hours later, a pastor referenced that verse.

No matter what we encounter in this life, if only we could keep at the forefront of our minds that God is watching over us. And yet, life so easily distracts and disrupts. It throws off the quality of our days and it certainly throws off our perception of reality and our attitude towards our circumstances. The worst of it, is that at the end of the day, you can't fall asleep. Even if your life depended on it.

Kinda makes you jealous towards the kiddo, doesn't it? Yeah... tell me about it.

Meanwhile, let's pray.

On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray for pastors whose days are disrupting their attitudes and actions towards life and ministry. Pray for those distraught and distressed by situations and circumstance that are keeping them up at night. Pray for the peace and calming effect of the Holy Spirit to fill their heart and mind. May worry, anxiety and fear be far from them; for that is not of God. Pray they would be given instead to a sound mind; confident in the work that God is doing within them as well as their ministry. May tonight be the first of many in their future, of sound sleep and a good rest.

That they would have all they have need of,
To do and complete the task set before them
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I popped an old praise & worship into my car stereo over the weekend; an album I haven't listened to in quite some time. Glenn Kaiser's work, All My Days.

I don't know about you, but yesterday definitely felt like a Monday... and so did Friday, for that matter.

And Glenn's song, Tapestry kept playing in my mind.

The things we do and say; and hope that we would be able to do and say as well as the regrets of what we do and say... we take the positive as much as the negative, in hopes that we will find a balance in our lives. Even if and more often when, things don't make sense. Whether it be why something has happened, or the way something has happened. It's entirely my fault, or your fault or circumstances beyond anyone's control... there's no explanation for it and you couldn't even come up with one if pressed into a corner!

Yet, it's times like these that Glenn's words offer some comfort.

https://glennkaiser.bandcamp.com/track/tapestry

"Make my life, a tapestry" in which your will is done; to use us as You see fit.

Yet, when things go wrong, our first thought is not one of peace, but of panic. Our immediate response is not trust that God does indeed work ALL things out for His glory, but worry about how this will work to our detriment.

Don't leave me hanging... your heart and mind work the same way, some days.
Don't leave your pastor in the dark, either. They probably have days were they feel they are the only struggling to remember what God is creating in and through their life and ministry just as often.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, pray those pastors, who while they have no problem encouraging others that God is at work in their lives, may still encounter times in their own lives where it is hard to trust God's bigger picture. Pray God would bring them into a new place of peace and rest; that they would neither be discouraged, nor overwhelmed. May anxiety and frustration not take up residence, but that they would recognize any and all attacks against their emotional and spiritual state of being. Pray a continual, quiet confidence in the tapestry that God is weaving, even with the situations where we are at fault and the circumstances over which we do have some element of control.

For God's beautiful creation
Doesn't rely upon our perfection.
But we are made perfect
Through His righteousness.
He is at work, to accomplish His purposes
For His glory.

- PNC

I heard the sad story over the weekend, and not even the complete one at that, of closed doors.

We've all experienced closed doors. Opportunities that were on the horizon, being chased after, even being lived out. Then one leads to another and the opportunity is gone and the door is closed.

We pray against burnout; we pray for the effectiveness of church and their ministry and the ability for a congregation to impact their community. But it doesn't always work out.

The dreams and the visions and hopes don't always align with reality and for any number of reasons, a church closes it's doors.

And you could still hear the loss and the heartache in the voice of a pastor, who without going into any specific details, relayed that has part of his reality and experience. And my heart breaks with him.

It's hard to fathom and yet for as often as it happens, we never hear about it, much less get any advance warning as if something could be done to help keep the doors open. And while God does work things out for good, even amidst loss and sorrow, it doesn't change the reality of shattered hopes and dreams for those who wanted to change their community through the ministry of the church. Even when it opens opportunity for ministry elsewhere, it remains a sad piece of the story.

So, on this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for those pastors who have experienced the pain of closing church doors. May God give them strength, even after the loss, whether it be recent or long ago. Pray God would use them for effective ministry as well; that opportunities would be made available beyond what they thought possible. Pray for healing and restoration; for there is a grief and an agony that accompanies such circumstances. May the reality of the circumstance be an opportunity for God to work the miraculous, rather than the enemy to gain a foothold of defeat and destruction in their heart, mind and soul. Finally, pray for an awareness; that communities and churches would desire the doors to remain open and have opportunity to help out long before it becomes to late.

For the sovereign hand of God
Opens doors that no man can shut
As much as He shuts doors that cannot be opened.
For His glory, by His will.

- PNC

I was thinking about Friday's post, after having written it of course... and just how often we hear advice regarding people and relationships about boundaries and guarding ourselves from chaos and drama. And don't get me wrong; there's a fair amount of truth to that advice.

Boundaries are good for establishing and maintaining healthy relationships.

And yes, some people's drama and chaos is of such a nature and frequency that it can disrupt and disturb the lives of others in such a way that is destructive on many levels, whether it be financially, emotionally, or otherwise.

Conversely, though, how we will help others through the chaos and drama if we don't walk with them and help them find their way out of it? I understand this can be difficult to navigate... some people can't survive without their drama, which is why the aforementioned advice about boundaries exists! But seriously...

Helping people through their battles and struggles requires engagement on our part to listen, to understand (as best we can) and to offer our love and support as representatives of Christ that they can find their way out of the chaos and into the arms of Christ

Is it hard? Yes.
Sacrificial? Yes.
Challenging? Yes.
Worth it? Christ thought your chaos was.

On this #communitySaturday, may we reach out to those in chaos. Pray God would grant us wisdom to know how to help and the strength to actually do so. Pray that lives would be changed as they find their way closer to Christ and farther from the drama. Pray for a transformation as lives come to a place of being controlled by the Spirit rather than the chaos. May the kingdom of God be advanced, because people cross over, to help bring people out of the chaos and into the light of Christ. And pray for those who would rather live in the chaos than Christ; for those who can't seem to break free from a constant state of drama. May God do a life-changing work in their hearts and minds that only He can accomplish by His miraculous and mighty hand.

Out of the darkness
Into the Light.
His glorious light.
Out of the disturbance
Into His presence and rest.

- PNC

Isn't amazing, how much chaos we endure in life? Things should calm done for the life dedicated to Christ and it's not that they actually do so, but our perspective towards the chaos changes. At least it should.

And yet, for many it doesn't. Life seems just as chaotic with Christ as it did before Christ.

But God has not called us to pass from chaos to chaos, but from glory to glory.

For those without Christ, the chaos of life causes a negative transformation within one's soul. The agony, stress and frustration seemingly dominate every attitude and perspective we have towards our outlook on life.

This is why, it's not enough to have salvation in Christ alone. We must choose to live, not only in the redemptive grace of the Cross, but also be controlled by the power of the Holy Spirit. It is a conscious decision on our part and commitment to our trust and understanding that God is at work in our lives, according to His plans and purposes.

You would think it would be an easy thing to remember and keep in proper perspective at the forefront of our minds, even for those in ministry, but that's not always the case. Chaos affects everyone and even carries out its' devastating effects on those who diligently perform the work of the kingdom of God.

So, on this #missionsFriday, pray for missionaries who are struggling with the chaos of life. Pray for strength to endure and peace in the midst of the storm. May their be a grace about their lives and a balance within their soul. Pray the would not be influenced by the chaos, but indeed, controlled by the Spirit. May the peace that surpasses all understanding give them opportunity to share the Gospel; as they live as one in whom where greater is He that is in them, is greater than he that is in the world.

For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

At some point today, I had a sense that there was to be a focus on college and universities and not only that group of students and what they are encountering in life, but also for those who minister to that group of young people.

It's pretty incredible what's happening on campuses right now; so much so, I think that I'm glad that phase of life is behind me. Make that, all of formal education. Struggles and challenges abound, as they always have, but as realities seem to reach into issues, perspectives and understandings that many aren't prepared for... it's like trying to work the navigation screen while already moving.

Daily, we're hearing, seeing and reading things that simply don't make any sense. And in the attempt to understand in order that a response can be formulated, you simultaneously sit in disbelief... wondering when this became a thing and how it became a thing.

So, as I'm thinking about this topic today, Dave Ramsey opens up his show this afternoon and proves this point for me. He reads a news item about how 21% of college students are using their student loans to invest in Bitcoin.

Dave's rant was pretty comical, actually. But still. It's against the law to use student loans for anything other than educational purposes, let alone investing. And then of all things, something as volatile as Bitcoin? Scary.

There's some incredible young people today. And much to be encouraged by, regarding their passion, engagement and perspective. Then, as with every generation, the one question I still can hear my father ask of me in my younger years... "what were you thinking?"

Tomorrow is here. 

On this #youthPastorWednesday, I can only pray and trust you will join me, that today they will enter and impact the world with a solid foundation of faith. Pray they would live and engage, not from an identity found in politics or an ideology, but an identity found in Christ. While life is a constant process of learning, pray a sense of wisdom and understanding. Pray they would know whose they are, in whose image they were created and for what purpose they have been set apart by God to accomplish. May God perform the miraculous as they commit their lives and ways to Him first and foremost.

Dedicated to one cause only,
The cause of Jesus Christ.
Changing the world.
For all eternity.

- PNC

Yes, this is another late day post. But interestingly enough there's a consistent theme.

If you heard any of the press conference or interviews from the Head Coach of University of Michigan basketball after last night's loss against Villanova, you know it's an act of true leadership; that skips past the conversations "if we hadn't done that and if we had only done this instead" or "we gave it all our and it wasn't enough", etc. We've all heard the post-game speeches.

Coach was straight up. Proud of what they had accomplished. Bummed about the loss. But that's life. One's current state of sadness doesn't negate all the moments of greatness and joy that came before.

If that weren't enough, my wife is watching television. The lead character is defining the character trait that even in the midst of great trials and obstacles, one is able to persevere and overcome; maintaining a positive outlook that they are not defined by their circumstances... simply present in them and responsible for how they react to them.

One would think that a person of faith would have no problem living with such a healthy and balanced perspective in their life. Even more so, for those in ministry. Is their faith not unshakable?

Indeed, though life happens to us all. And often, the stories of others can be more overwhelming and harder to handle than our own. Given enough time, enough conversations... the joys can seem lost and all too infrequent.

So, on this #associatePastorTuesday, pray for those struggling to maintain and remember the moments of joy. Pray the joy of the Lord would be their strength, even in times of trials and obstacles, suffering and loss. May they be encouraged by the sovereign hand of God. Pray that God would help in their conversations, as they minister and walk with others. May they stand firm in the faith, focused on the plans and purposes of God; for the sake of eternity, not just their time on Earth.

For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

So the final game of March Madness is tonight. And man, what a crazy couple of weeks in the world of college basketball. I don't normally follow much of it, but for some reason, this year I did. But every match-up has been covered in a shroud of conversation, which always includes a discussion of the "odds-on favorite" as the pundits and prognosticators make their predictions.

This final game, is no different.

But it got me thinking about the conversation that goes on when pastors prepare to take on a new church or ministry project that involves a making a serious move or transition from their current post.

I've had trouble deciding which job to take when there has been more than option on the table! Yet, ministry opportunities about and many pastorate seats are needing to be filled at any given time. I'm certain the conversation is given more thought, debate and prayer than the game-day commentators, but I still can't help but wonder, given the preference of options, is one position more desirable than other?

Among the choices, is there a preferred, "odds-on favorite"?

I know God works in mysterious ways. I know often times, Pastors just know, where there supposed to go and when. But what if they don't? What it takes time? What if it takes longer than anticipated? What if, as the course of the game progresses, things don't go as planned?

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for those seeking God's direction on the court and course of their ministry. May God lead and guide them to the specifics of where He has ordained for them to go. Pray for wisdom as the conversation progresses and strength to endure when things don't go as planned. May they not be derailed or detoured when things get frustrating or stressful; but may there remain a quiet confidence in the calling God has placed upon their lives.

For in the kingdom of God
There is no winning or losing.
Only faithful service
To the cause of Jesus Christ
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Jesus is Risen! He is Risen, indeed!

It's hard on Resurrection Sunday, the day in which we celebrate Christ's conquering of death, hell and the grave, to consider just how much "work" goes into living a life of faith in God. And yet, as I'm certain I've stated in previous years, the words "It Is Finished" as an incredible sentiment.

In fact, Easter Sunday remains, perhaps the most #effectiveSunday ever!

Which is utterly amazing. Just as amazing though, are some thoughts on Passover itself, which of course, now that I was looking for a particular reference point, I can't locate it.

But consider this.

The people of Israel depart from Egypt the day after the angel of death passes over.
Christ departs, the day after having celebrated Passover with His disciples.

And the southern kingdom, operated on a different calendar than Christ and the northern kingdom. So their preparation of the Passover was consistent with the preparation of the lamb, only in this case, the Lamb of God.

What I find chilling... the sky going dark. It's representative of the angel of death claiming the first born. Only this time, the first born of Heaven; Christ's blood covering the doorpost of the Earth for the rest of humanity.

We all have times, where we can't see ourselves completing the task or seeing a process through to the end. If Jesus suggested His willingness to exit stage left before the final scene should that be a viable option, how prone are we to want to do the same? Nevertheless, He remained to the closing curtain, only to rip it apart, in order that there wouldn't be just an eruption of eternal gratitude but an invitation into relationship with the Father.   

How awesome, is the sovereign timing of the Hand of God; if for the love of His firstborn, how much more His created being! And the work of His Hand, throughout the Earth to our innermost corner of the soul.

A holy work.
A refining work.
A transforming work.
A perfecting work.
A diving work.
A personal work.
A redemptive work.
A finished work.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that many would come to know this work; His work... of the love of God to liberate us from our sinful state. Pray that we would know Christ like never before; possessing a greater understanding, appreciation and purpose of His life. May those around us see Christ in us, that we would display His love and grace to a world in desperate need of Him. Pray that new life would arise, as the life of Christ is raised.   May we be faithful to complete the work that God has started in us, as much as Christ remained  in the Father, that He might complete His ordained work on this Earth.

Effective for the cause of Christ
For the glory of God
That eternity would be forever changed.
Again.

- PNC                                 

I mentioned the other day some thoughts and perspectives on corruption and people in power. And around the same time, perhaps in a different conversation if I recall, the question was posed, if you could narrow the 10 commandments down to one, what would it be?

Yes, I know... they've already been reduced to two. Love God and love people. And that's hard enough some times, both with God and people! But what's the one?

And the answer might surprise you. Because if you pick wisely, you just might resolve, or eliminate the need for the rest. As in you find yourself in a good position with both God and man.

Envy.

Thou shalt not envy.

Well, if you are going to go there, why not make it jealousy? Because jealousy only addresses my frustration that you have something I don't. Envy addresses the fact that because I don't have it, neither should you. And that is a deeper seeded issue.

Think about it... if it's possessions, one could be prone to theft. If it's a relationship, then adultery. If it's one's entire life, then murder. If one lacks contentment regarding the state of another, how can they respect them? Such discontentment then causes a spiritual rift in between them and God and thus, they don't love and obey Him as they should. And the floodgate is open for all kinds of wrong thoughts, attitudes and behaviors. All because the position and status of our neighbor distracts and disrupts the healthy and realistic perspective we should have regarding our own, who we are and who God created us to be.

Enter so many people taking a hiatus from social media and disengaging to varying degrees or even altogether.

Envy kills community.

It certainly causes the beginning of the end with much decay and dissolution along the way. This is not how God made us to be, nor intended us to regard each other, nor Himself, for that matter.

And we do. So often. So easily. So recklessly.

God, help us, this #communitySaturday! Pray that envy would find no room in hearts and minds, that we would look upon your blessings and your creation with such discontent that nobody should enjoy this life. Pray our focus would truly be upon knowing Your love and grace and sharing and extending it to those around us; even those with whom we disagree and digress of life, conversation and events of all kinds. May our attitudes and actions reflect Christ in all we do, whether in the comfort of our home or the sometimes uncomfortable engagement of community.

That our lives would glorify God
As we interact with His creation.
For our lives are not our own.
Neither is this world our home.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I heard some good conversation recently on people in positions of power and the opportunity for corruption... well, not so much opportunity as it was, it's down right existence.

It doesn't really matter what environment it grows in; its' affects are an overwhelming hindrance to life, ultimately to those in the midst of it, but sooner or later it extends to those who will receive it's unintended consequences. That creates huge problems.

Trust becomes an issue.
Correction becomes complicated.
Yet as awareness spreads,
Outrage grows deep and wide.

And depending on the circumstances surrounding it and in particular, the people and power that may reside at corruption's core, hopelessness of any positive change may be inevitable.

Such an existence is not good for a country, nor is it good for a local community. It destroys a single business with as much a devastating end as it does a single church.

So, on this #deaconThursday, pray for the leadership of today's church. May the hold their positions of power and influence with wisdom and humility. Pray they would lead their church with the integrity that we would expect them to lead their home. Pray their ability to walk and live according to God's Word in public would indeed stem from time and fellowship with Him at home. And pray that God would do the miraculous, in churches, communities and countries that are in the midst of devastating corruption practices. May there be a shift of direction and a day of reckoning would come quickly; that they would witness a turn-around in their every day life as well as for eternity.

For God has called us to a higher standard,
For His glory and by His strength.
Not overcome by the darkness,
But a light that scatters the darkness.

- PNC

Termites cause more damage in America than the big, dramatic events do. - Steven Mansfield

Yes, I know what you're thinking. Seriously? A third run regarding Ramsey and Mansfield? But consider the power of that thought as it applies to life, rather than housing.

The big, dramatic events in our lives do possess great power and impact, sometimes more than they should because of the power we give them. Other times, because they truly are live-changing events.

But as we pray over youth pastors in light of today's youth, how much more should we worried about the termites.

The little things have a way of sneaking in and getting under our skin and into our spirits and if not dealt with properly and early, we find ourselves dealing with things in adulthood that could have been resolved in childhood.

Except at the point, rather than being resolved on the home-front, we find ourselves having to battle them while we navigate a career or a relationship or a ministry. It's not that the problem can't be taken care of that stage in the game... it's just a more serious stage. A larger infestation means more time, energy and money invested in its' removal. It's worth doing, yes. But the value is in the prevention and early detection.

It's for the health of our lives, our kids and our ministries.

Let's pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would help us identify the termites in our own lives, in the lives of our youth and in our ministries. Pray they would not move beyond the point of infestation that would cause distraction, derailment and destruction. Pray for wisdom, to know how to handle problems and issues as they arise, to deal with them in a spirit of love and truth and to call out that which does not belong. May there be a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, not only in the lives of youth pastors for their benefit, but also to instill that discipline in the lives of the youth they minister to; so that when they reach adulthood, the dramatic events of life will be the things that are beyond their control, rather than those things which are not only within their control, but preventable as well.

For God's work in our lives,
Is a refining fire.
Uncomfortable as though it is,
Better when less is required.
More of His Spirit...
Less of the termites.

- PNC

I had opportunity to hear more of the conversation that Dave Ramsey had with Steve Mansfield that I referenced the other day. While talking about the flow of life and what it is that we do that brings us fulfillment, they made the point that "when the work doesn't flow as it used to, the poetry is lost"... then you might be in trouble.

Dave perhaps gave the best analogy.

A man, who is incredibly successful in all that he does, having gone bankrupt in his early years of marriage, now lives like most only dream. Yet, if you listen to show, you'll hear just how often he encourages (and teaches) what people need to do now, so that they too can live their dream. It doesn't have to look like his, but finances stand in the way of many not ever being able to do so.

So, he makes the point, that the day he stops celebrating people becoming debt-free and reaching millionaire status, is probably the time he should give up his day job. Why?

Because what he does right now, is an effort to help other people win and witness them winning! Which after 25 years on the radio, the stories are almost too numerous to count. I think they announced that last year, for those who had contacted them and that the had tracked, $59 million dollars in debt had been eliminated from those working his financial advice. If he loses the passion and excitement of helping people achieve such freedom, what's the point in continuing to help in that manner? He should do something else.

Lost poetry.

A very similar scenario happens in ministry. Along the path to burnout. Life happens and perhaps things don't go as plan or tragedy strikes or thoughts and attitudes that don't belong enter into your perspective and the excitement with which you approach your day begins to wane and you have to ask yourself if you are losing it? The fluidity. The rhythm. The progression. The poetry.

It be lost towards one's perspective towards other pastors and people in ministry, that they serve with daily or watch from afar. It can be those within the congregation and community that they try to figure out why and how things worked out for another and not for them.

It's not like we all haven't been there!

To not recognize the loss of poetry in your position, yet remain in that position will soon become a dangerous path.

So, let's pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, that pastors would not lose the poetry of their life and ministry. May nothing stand in the way that we detour their desire to help and to minister to their church and community. Pray a spirit of envy and jealousy would be for from them. Pray for a continual ability to rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn; to share in both the moments of celebration as well as compassion. May God renew their strength as they serve. Faithfully.

For the glory of God.
And the kingdom of Heaven.

- PNC

33 years in... well, 33 minutes.

That was the sentiment pastor shared yesterday in the opening statements of his message; to convey 33 years of experience condensed in a morning message. Or 33 minutes for the sake of phraseology.

He was talking about how we are an imperfect people and yet, in we are made perfect in Christ as we grow in our revelation and knowledge of who He is. And that is a process that takes time. As another pastor friend of mine always says, whenever you read the Word, the Word reads you.

But, it really is true. The revelation of God is an evolving process. His infinite existence. Our finite minds. I don't need explain further. As life unfolds, our understanding expands. Pastor pointed how true this is, in the story of the woman caught in adultery. When Jesus asks for him who was without sin to cast the first stone, we are told that one by one, her accusers left. Starting with the oldest among them.

Why? Perspective that leads to wisdom. And the words of Christ turning the mirror upon their very souls. The recognizable problem of their own condition was more apparent to those who had been around longer; the younger, naturally, took a little longer.

I say all of that to say, I continue to be amazed at the direction and process of pastors in navigating the steps of what to preach and when and the changes that occur along the way. Not knowing who might be in church, nor what they are going through... so much goes unknown.

There's an art to public speaking. And for the most part, the speaker knows the topic and the audience has an expectation of the topic. Preaching on the other hand, really is a divine ordeal. The unseen hand of God arranging circumstances and events in peoples lives, in such a way as to be open to hear the Word of God, or closed and yet changed by the Holy Spirit as the Word is delivered. Conviction. Grace. Love. Hope. Restoration. The range of experiences, perspectives and understandings that people leave with, from the same sermon is utterly incredible.

It'd be easy for a pastor to get caught up in sharing whatever they feel like on any given Sunday, as much as it would be for me to write these posts. But I think we could all agree, in these last days, we truly need pastors to continually be seeking the face of God as they prepare for every message and devotional.  They may not fit their 33 years of experience in the time allotted for the sermon or service, but they can fill those "33 minutes" with the revelation of God through His Word.

Pray, this #seniorPastorSunday, that such would be the case in every service and opportunity. May they continually seek the face of God and share that which He has imparted and revealed to them through prayer and study. Pray an awareness in their lives, for their church and community; that they would know what to present and when as they trust the hand of God and the power of the Holy Spirit to be at work in their ministry and congregation.

That we not trust our own intuition
But solely on the sovereignty of God
And the prompting of the Holy Spirit,
For it is not our experience that matters,
But God's purposes being carried out
In those whose lives are wholly His.

- PNC