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

​Is is not awesome how the body works?

Simply fascinating. Utterly complex. Eternally Brilliant. Painfully broken. 

For all our strengths, weaknesses and quirks along the way, it doesn't take much observation to notice when one is tired and cranky. Most easily, this is recognizable between a parent and their beloved child (said the Dad, whose own parents can pick up on the signs in their adult son).

The child simply can't avoid the obvious signs. Mom and Dad know when the kid is near a breaking point. Yet somehow, as we adult and mature, we get better at hiding our state of exhaustion. Physically, we can hold it at bay for a while. Emotionally, mentally, spiritually, it's easier to contain to the casual observer. (Once again, with exception being the parent of said adult)

We disconnect. We withdrawal. We cover with smiles and pleasant greetings; not in an effort to be fake, but from a genuine desire to protect. Perhaps ourselves. Maybe those around us. Yet the inability to confide and release the internal struggle we all battle only leads to our own demise, like an untreated acid, that works its' corrosive powers on our soul. It's only a matter of time.

All too often we associate burnout in ministry with longevity.

Pastors with decades of service to the kingdom of God. Thousands of tragedies and horrific events that they have been privy to, as their congregation and community has lived through unbelievable struggle and insurmountable difficulty. Frustration. Heartbreak. Loss. 

An overwhelming number of situations and circumstances that are simply to much to speculate. Of course, the longer one has been in ministry, perhaps, the better they are at keeping up the perception that all is well, rather than someone young and fresh in ministry who may be struggling.

But that doesn't mean, that those who are still in the early years of ministry through the "first half" of their service, don't find themselves battling burnout.  Perhaps it's not the wearing down over time, but specific events that have quickly burnt them. It happens. And whatever the cause, the effects are hard and far-reaching. And for pastors of youth and kids, the eternal impact is perhaps even greater than... no. 

Burnout in or burnt by ministry at any stage is detrimental to the efforts of positively impacting the kingdom of God.

Pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, specifically for pastors ministering to the next generation, and have already been burnt or are experiencing burnout in some form. May God begin, even now, to work the miraculous in their hearts and minds. Pray the Holy Spirit would strengthen and comfort them and place them in conversations where they would be able to release the struggle from within. For the events that have caused or prompted this process... whatever the details and difficulties, may God do a healing and restorative work, to whatever degree is possible. Pray wisdom and discernment in the conversations and the process that follow; as life moves forward and ministry as well; that God would keep them and guard them, as they open themselves again, to be used by God.

For His glory
For the cause of Jesus Christ;
Who is able to work all things for good.
For those He loves and calls, according to His purpose.

- PNC

 As I continued to reflect throughout the day yesterday, on the message of greatness and servanthood and the understanding of what's involved in the process, I remembered the word, menial.

Servants do "whatever."

Whatever is required.
Whatever is necessary.
Whatever needs to be done.
Whatever is asked

Often lacking in importance.
Often lacking in glory.
Often lacking in recognition.
Often lacking in support and resources.

Seemingly never-ending.
Seemingly never appreciated
Seemingly never good enough
Seemingly never what I would like, hope, or desire.

We all dream of greatness. Of Aspirations. Of Hope.
To be people of significance.
To be people of influence.
To be people of accomplishment.

And in the midst of all of that, life. The everyday responsibilities. The menial. The mundane. The to-do list, chore-list and next-project around the house list. Help clean-up. Help with kids homework.

Life goes on. As does ministry. And the nagging sense that there is more... that we can't seem to get to because of the "stuff" for which we must continue to work at, just in an effort to maintain.

Yet, there is honor to be found, in faithful service to the "insignificant".
It's what propels us to the possibility of being able to serve in a seemingly, more-significant way.

So, pray this #associatePastorTuesday, for those struggling in their service and role in life and in ministry. For those feeling overwhelmed by the mundane and insignificant, may God strengthen their hearts and minds afresh. For those broken and weary, from seemingly lack-luster "results" from their work and dedication, may God comfort them with the promise that His Word will not return void; that their service is not in vain. May God provide sovereignly for those frustrated by a lack of support, resources and encouragement. Pray the power and comfort of the Holy Spirit would refresh and revive their spirits... for what we feel insignificant, God places great value.

Whatever we do,
May we do as unto the Lord.
For His Glory.
Regardless of the value we ascribe the "insignificant".

- PNC

I watched an incredible sermon last night; a message on Jesus' teaching on service... His reply to James and John about who would sit at His right hand and His left, come eternity.

The nuggets, hidden in Scripture. Matthew's account adds the tidbit of info often overlooked in this story.  It wasn't James and John who asked this of Christ, but their mother, Salome... who just happens to be the sister of Jesus' mother Mary!

Jesus... this is Aunt Salome asking... where will your cousins sit, as rulers in Heaven?

Oh, the audacity!
 
Jesus, didn't miss a beat. "You don't know what you are asking." You don't know what that involves. You don't know what awaits the future of the ones who will hold such glorious positions. For what they will endure on Earth, you would not consider glorious.

The pastor talked about the propensity, however, for church leaders and pastors to get caught up in the mindset James and John held. Close to Christ. The inner circle of friends. Powerful ministry. Passion. Et cetera. Et al. Yet, how much self must one be concerned with to have your own mother inquire of Christ on your behalf, while you stand next to her in the same room?

The pastor's descriptor for such a mindset?

Ingrown.

Isn't that a great adjective? And for a church whose pastor has this mindset, the experience can be as painful for the church as much as it is to have the physical condition! It's a good way to experience a change in ministry that is less than positive; for pride goes before the fall.

The desire to be great can be strong, for all it's worth; but if its' unable to humble itself to be the servant of all, then nothing will come of it. Not to mention, most of the time we have no idea what is in store, for those willing to serve. Nor do we have any idea what blessing we miss out on, by remaining focused on greatness rather than servanthood.

Join me, in prayer, this #seniorPastorMonday. Pray that pastors would retain, or return if necessary, a spirit of humility in service to the kingdom of God. Pray the spirit of greatness would not quench the desire of servanthood for those in ministry. May they not forget, of what God has accomplished in their lives and ministries before of who Christ is; not because of who they are. Pray a spirit of repentance, where called for... that pride would not derail, detour and destroy ministries that are currently on the verge of disaster or collapse as a result of an ingrown mindset. Pray the Holy Spirit intervene on the hearts and minds of those unable to acknowledge the fall is near; pray God's grace for those not ready for what's in store, should they not humble themselves before the Lord.

Healing for the ingrown;
From a place of humility.
Not for our greatness,
But for His glory.

- PNC

A thought occurred to me yesterday afternoon, as our family worked on putting up the Christmas tree... and kids attempting to help.

Participation awards don't mean that you are an effective contributor to the event.

It is simply somewhere along the medium between showing up and another mark in the loss column. It certainly doesn't not guarantee, nor help ensure a point towards a win; let alone a mention in the record books.

This is the difference that sets teams, organizations, families, communities and churches apart.

The difference between a people who are more than conquerors and less than winners.

Everyone is on the same page moving with the same purpose.
They are there to the end.
They are there for the win.
They offer everything in support of the goal.
They work with the end in mind, while understanding the importance of offering their best for that specific moment, because they know that anything less, takes away from the process rather than enhances it.

Sadly, the lack of this mindset has cost the church greatly over the years. 
And the church knows it.
Their community knows it.
Society knows it.

It's time we change it.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, God would help the church; that our eyes would be open to where we are lax; where we are missing opportunities and where resources and people are not appropriately placed and positions for success. May God grant wisdom to church leaders and coordinators, to be wise stewards of who and what are under their purview, to discern what is available and what is required for the church to be more effective and efficient in communicating the gospel of Jesus Christ.

While the methods may change, 
May the message remain.
God is Love.
Jesus Saves.
Man forever changed.

- PNC

Happy post-Thanksgiving Friday!  An interesting day for reflection on a couple lines of thinking.

Some of us are enjoying an extended weekend with time off work. Others, thankful for God's provision in their lives, are experiencing that provision by reporting to work this morning, for either a portion of the day or most of the day.

Yet today, many from both camps will meet each other, as it's the biggest Christmas shopping day of the year. ("Your money is about to become my money... in a week or two, when the next paycheck arrives" -kind of mentality)

Black Friday was summed up with somewhat of an irony... a meme was posted to social media yesterday, as Black Friday being the day we go and buy a bunch of stuff we don't "need" just hours after spending a day in gratitude for what we already have.

As a part of the gratitude, we are thankful for those who serve their country and community and thus, were away from family and friends on the day designated for thanks. Among them away in service, are missionaries... in service to the kingdom of God.

Meanwhile, we are quick to share our finds and bargains and "black-Friday deals" with friends and strangers alike.

The question remains, are we sharing with others, the greatest "black-Friday deal" of lifetime, when for a 3-hour period, some 2000 years ago, Christ paid the grand total of the balance due on humanity, in order that we might be redeemed?

Pray, this #missionsFriday, for those who've yet to come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. During this time of gratitude, during the occasion for "special savings" this holiday season, may the believer in Christ be as excited to share about the savings available to us through the Cross. Pray the church remember not only to be consumers of the Church and of God, but contributors to the church and ministers of the Gospel. For our lives are not our own; nor are they about us, nor what we possess. May we live to exemplify and glorify the grace and the greatness of God.

Whether at work,
Or at play...
Whatever is in store this day
May we live for Christ.
In service to the kingdom of God.

- PNC

Truly, there is so much to be grateful for, this Thanksgiving day.

Quite simply, that we are breathing should suffice.

As I shared in special mid-week Thanksgiving service, the other night; this has been a difficult and challenging year, spotted by a number of circumstances that could have worked out to much more worse than what they did. Only be the sovereign hand of God's grace.

My incredible family. Great friends. God's provision and protection over our lives. Indeed the list is long.

Yet, once again... as I reflected on this day of gratitude the pastoral perspective, the list took a turn.

I am thankful for the 1500+ pastors, who every month this year, chose to remain in ministry.
I am thankful for the 500+ missionaries who have stayed on the mission field this year.
I am thankful for churches that, despite difficulty and troubled times have kept their doors open.

For the salvations that have occurred as a result.
For the healings.
For the restorations.
For the break-throughs.
For wisdom and revelation

As my friend shared the other night, that God had moved upon his heart, to step into areas of ministry, that made him pause and think, "I'm not the person for that position". Yet, he and many more like him, have responded and stepped out in faith and God has honored them. New friendships have been formed, people's faith have been strengthened and visitors have been welcomed and loved by the body of Christ into the presence of God.

I thank God for granting and imparting wisdom to pastors in knowing and seeking the face of God as to who should serve with them in ministry, for their church and community.

Conversely, I thank God for the body of Christ, that steps up to serve along side pastors and give countless hours, whether they be on staff or simply answer the call of God on their lives to contribute to the church in order than ministry may happen.

For those who pray.
For those who give.
For those who contribute.

Indeed, one member of the body should never look at another, and say, "I have no need of you."
We need each other. We need Christ at the top.

Thus, pray, this #deaconThursday, that God would strengthen those who come along-side, to stand and serve with pastors. May God honor their faith and their faithfulness to the church and community, as they set aside other activities and priorities, that ministry may proceed. Pray God's protection and provision over their own homes and families and they work to help and improve the lives of others. May their faith be fortified, their hearts and encouraged and their spirits revived.
Most importantly, on this Thanksgiving Day, may we be people of gratitude.

That we would know God.
That we would love others.
For we have been blessed by His Hand
We should extend ours in return.
For the glory of God and the cause of Christ.

- PNC

The more I interact with my own kids, the more I realize the importance of protecting them.

I desire them to live a full life, to enjoy life, to experience God through life, here on Earth.

As an adult, I understand life is as full of disappointment as it is excitement. Sadness and mourning as much as happiness and rejoicing. Loss as much as contentment. Lack as much as abundance.

Yet, as my friend shared this evening, I'm thankful for the naivety, of their present stage...

Life is grand, except when it's not.
It's often more troubling than it is at peace.
It's often more frustrating than it is joyful.
It's often more depressing than it is uplifting.

And this, from the outlook of the adult. How kids respond to life and circumstance are largely influenced by how adults and people in positions of influence respond to life and circumstance.

If I am calm in high-stress situations, I instill the importance of such a trait while teaching them that such a response is possible.  Otherwise, I show the potential disaster of responding from emotion and fail to teach them self-control... among other things.

Pastors all the more. Adults learn what they are capable of from the leaders in their lives, whether in business, politics or religion. So, if we remain somewhat pliable from influencers in our lives, all the more for kids and youth watching how the pastors and ministry leaders respond when life comes against them.

And life does come against us all. It rains on the just and the unjust. Pastors aren't better or greater than the rest of us. They are prone to problems like the rest of us. They struggle to respond appropriately, like the rest of us. They wrestle with their faith like the rest of us. They are, after all, people like the rest of us... and more importantly, sinners like all of us.

All the more reason, as leaders in matters of faith, we should want them strong in the Lord, not only for our benefit as adults, but for the benefit of our youth.

Thanks for joining me, this #youthPastorWednesday. Pray that pastors, especially those leading our youth, would be strong in the Lord. May their faith be fortified, in spite of the challenges, difficulties and frustrations they face. May God give them discernment in their decisions, as well as in the conversations they share, as they discuss their experience and the how their faith impacted and influenced the same. Pray a hedge over their ministries, for protection over the innocence of our youth. May the enemies attacks against them be thwarted. May the principles of God's Word be instilled deep with the souls of our young people, that indeed, when they are old, they will not depart from the plans and purposes God has for their lives.

Life is not about us.
Never was, never will be.
Everything speaks to the person(s) around us.
May our lives speak truth;
Bearing witness to Jesus Christ.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Indeed, God uses the foolish things to confound the wise.

In like spirit, I think God uses the simple things to remind us of who He is when the complexities of this life would have us guessing and questioning the entirety of the process.

Situations come and go. Frustrations and distractions cause some of them to last and linger longer than we would prefer. Decisions must be made; actions must be taken. The mental taxation of it all can keep us, even rob us, of appreciating this life He has blessed us with... to the point we often fail to enjoy and at times, LIVE, as we are meant to be living it.

Instead we live by our emotions and mindset, rather than the beliefs in our heart and the courage of our convictions that accompany them. This process can happen at any stage, but I think there can be a confluence of events when people find themselves somewhere near the middle. Perhaps, by age or financial position, somewhere in between along the corporate scale... parenthood (for instance, when you feel like you are dealing with teenagers before their numerical age is remotely close to that phase).

Where are you in life?
I'm in the middle.
Of what.
Whatever. Just in the middle.

See how quick that mindset can become dangerous?

Mediocrity lies in the middle. If we aren't careful, it can motivate us to propel quickly upwards or it can depress us to spiral downward, even more quickly.

Yet, it's the minor things... the 1,000 consolations of God, (if I can borrow a concept from the Kevin Sorbo movie, What If) that, if we remain alert and aware of God moving, ministering and speaking into our lives that will keep us moving forward. Whatever the pace and status of our journey, God always finds ways to interject reminders that He is with us, that He has plans and purposes for which we are to fulfill and whatever weighs on our hearts and minds, He has the resources to move on our behalf.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday for pastors feeling stuck in the middle. Perhaps in ministry, at home or life in general... whatever their struggle and frustration, pray God would bring comfort to their hearts and peace that surpasses understanding to their minds. For wherever they may be in their relationships, marriages and parenthood, may they be encouraged that God is working out the details. The struggles, the fights, the battles... as unpleasant and aggravating as they are, may God strengthen and gird them up; for what is meant to destroy them and take them out, even burn them out... may they resolve their commitment to God and the calling He has placed upon them to remain steadfast and firm. Despite feeling and perhaps literally being in the middle, may they be reminded it is only a season.

Faithful in service.
Steadfast in position.
Focused on the work at hand;
Laying our frustrations at His throne.
All to be used for His glory.

- PNC

You know you are having a true writer's moment, when you are tempted to begin a blog post with, "I have to be honest with you...", then realize, it implies to your readers, that perhaps you haven't been up to this point. After 500+ posts, I think you'll agree, this would not be a good move.

So, just say what you mean to say.

Up until late last night, I hadn't given much thought to what today's perspective would be. Then, somehow my mind began to reflect on pastor's sermon. As we enter into Thanksgiving, he spoke about the 10 lepers and the lessons we can learn, from the one who returned with gratitude. At the close of his message, he described the difference between living in a monastery and a prison.

(and this is my paraphrase:)
In a place of solitude, the difference is attitude.

Prison is unsettling, frustrating, unfulfilling; a place of anger, pain, and discontentment. 
Thoughts of thankfulness and gratefulness are far and away from the front of your mind.

Conversely, the monastery. Settled. Calm. Fulfillment. A place of peace and contentment.
Thankfulness and gratefulness are on the forefront of your mind.

We all have our times, places and moments of monastery.
​More often than not, we find ourselves in life's prison.

And once again, I'm reminded... pastors are not immune to the same experiences as the rest of us. Even Thursday, at the end, as we prayed specifically for pastors who have sons and daughters who are away from God... prodigals. And yet ministry goes forward, despite the troubles and concerns at home. I simply can't fathom. Actually, I can to a degree and that alone scares me.

Pray with me, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors struggling in life and ministry. For whatever reason, they feel as though life's current moments are more like prison, than a monastery. Pray for the situations, whether at home or at church, that are attempting to rob their joy, steal their zeal and shred their spirit. For thoughts that are consuming their mind and conversations that are ripping their hearts, may God minister to them and strengthen them anew and afresh. May the Holy Spirit comfort them and bring them peace... beyond all reason and understanding. Pray a fresh indwelling of thankfulness and gratitude; that God would reassure them that He is working all things together for God. May their efforts in ministry not be hindered by their distractions; but that hope would rise up within them.

May praise ever be on their lips
And complaints far from their hearts.
Minds set like a flint
As they trust in God for the miraculous.
Peace, that surpasses all understanding.

​- PNC

"The Church loses everything, when it loses the spirit of prayer." - Pastor Jim Cymbala

Seriously.

We aren't known as a house of compassion, healing, restoration, teaching or fellowship. Not for great worship, great preaching, great friends and great ministry.

It is Christ, who declared his house to be known as a house of prayer.
Thus, if we lose the spirit, the desire, the wherewithal... the urgency of being people of prayer, what is left that would cause people to seek out the church? What value to we offer a society and a culture in desperate need of God if we do not experience relationship with Him through the avenue of prayer?

Pastor Cymbala says it like this:

"When you pray, God comes.
When you don't, He doesn't."

Thus, pray #effectiveSunday, that the church would indeed be people of prayer. May we hold fast to the spirit and desire to seek the face of God and witness His presence in our midst. Pray the sense of urgency never gets set aside or shuffled in favor of other things; grand and necessary as they may be. While service on Sunday may witness great attendance, pray an increase in those who gather for prayer.  As my pastor always says, the church moves forward on its' knees.

May we know God,
And seek His face;
To know His will
And experience His power.
Through prayer.

- PNC