This morning, our thoughts and prayers continue to join with Texas and of course, everyone is talking and watching this hurricane that is about to wreak havoc on Florida. On of the islands affected has witnessed 95% of it's structures destroyed. The storm is nearly twice as wide as the state of Florida. There are reports this morning that 14 million people are under hurricane warning. Over 5 and a half million are under evacuation orders.

It is almost beyond comprehension, especially on the heals of what Texas and New Orleans just experience. Plus there are two other hurricanes coming behind Irma.

We've witnessed the power of community in Texas. I'm certain we will witness a similar outcome for the people of Florida. However, this is somewhat surreal to watch and comprehend.

As always life is complex and it continues. There remains many events and issues that have transpired in recent days that have many people frustrated and bothered that have nothing to do with the weather. In the totality of it all, it's hard not wonder if God is attempting to get our attention? It's not like there's no a precedent for it.

Whatever happens this weekend, with this storm and for the days that follow, we continue to be granted opportunities to return to God. We continue to be given moments to show and to share the love, grace and compassion of God. And we continue to witness reminders of the sovereignty of a just and holy God. We may not know the what and the why and the how of it all and the unfolding thereof as well as God's reasoning behind it, but that shouldn't keep us from drawing close to Him and living in right relationship with Him through Jesus Christ.

Let's pray, this #communitySaturday for those in the path of these physical storms and those affected by them. Pray for safety and protection over their lives. Indeed, pray that these circumstances and struggles will bring people closer to God and to each other rather than further away. Pray the church and people of God will have an increased awareness to show and share of the goodness of God even in the most simple and tangible ways. Pray for peace, in the midst of the storm. May we witness a mighty move of God in our society and culture, even in the face of tragedy and destruction on a physical level.

For this world is not our home
And our treasure is in Heaven
We place our trust in Almighty God alone
For we can control nothing but our response to Him
In life's most difficult moments.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

What an incredible week this has been. Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out as we stand by those affected by Hurricane Harvey, whether directly or indirectly. We've witnessed amazing acts of kindness and love by those who were simply moved with compassion and compelled to step up and act when needed.

Conversely, if you've spent any time on social media, you've seen the church, some very notable, has received much criticism in regards to it's response or lack thereof in the midst of this tragedy.

What's been frustrating to watch about this whole ordeal, is that Christians have expressed their anger and emotions and justifications regarding the church. Meanwhile, non-believers will use this to justify having even less to do with Christians, the church or "organized religion" in general.

I fear that many will use this as opportunity to be convince that humanity can be good on it's own, when it wants to be without the influence of faith and a loving God. Furthermore, it will cement the perception that Christians are less like Christ than they profess.

Granted, we know this not to be true, as many major organizations have stepped up to aid in the relief efforts, many of them Christian or faith-based and quite reputable. Yet people's perceptions remain and the criticism stands.

Thus, will you pray this #communitySaturday, that God would continue to accomplish the miraculous in the midst of tragedy. Pray that God would intervene and fulfill his purposes in light of this life-changing event. May many come to Christ because they have experienced the love of humanity who has had a life-changing encounter with God. May the church be first to respond, not because it's what people perceive should be done, but what God calls and directs for our lives. Pray today would be the day of a new dawn.

That many lives would be changed.
Because Christians step out and live,
As those changed by the love of God.
For His glory.

- PNC

I heard a candidate for governor last night talk about what was going on in the city where she plans to run and she was asked about the on-goings of Washington D.C. and it's effect on states and communities. And I thought to myself, what a timely question, as so many are outraged and seemingly full of hate and frustration, not only against the elected representatives, but also against the President.

So much so are people's attitudes, that it's beyond making the argument of whether one wins or loses. They want him decimated and destroyed.

Yet this candidates' response was direct. The success of what the federal government sets out to achieve absolutely affects people at the state and local level. To call for their defeat is to call for our own demise, essentially.

I've stated it many times before. The health of families leads to healthy communities and states and ultimately nations. Yet, if we send unhealthy people, attitudes and mindsets to lead at a national level, they will in turn, decide and determine to take actions and methods that will come back and both directly and indirectly affect how we live life on a daily basis and carry out our business.

The difference that will be made in our communities depends on our abilities to communicate and work through the differences that exist between experiences, attitudes and beliefs. Walls make for great boundaries and protective means, but sometimes can really mess up our abilities to communicate.

Thus, we need a super-natural ability to know what and when to defend and where and how to allow points of access. In this time of heightened sensitivity and overt perception to offense, we need God's help to be and remain constant declarers and defenders of truth.

Pray, this #communitySaturday, that God would indeed help us to know when to protect and defend and when to open up and communicate. Pray for discernment in our interactions and conversations. May we continue to positively impact our communities for Christ as we allow God to continue His Work that He has begun in us, for as we are changed for eternity, may we present that to those around us who are in need the saving grace of the Cross. No matter the troubles and trials that we face along the way, may we ever be prepared to give an answer for the hope that is within us, even in fierce times up frustration, angst and hatred, whether from afar or in close proximity to where God has placed us.

That we would be led
By the everlasting, steadfast hand of God.
Empowered by the Holy Spirit
To speak truth in all circumstances.
That Christ would be known and revealed.
Positively impacting eternity from this day forward.

- PNC

?What does it profit a nation to focus on and debate the sins and wrong-doings of the previous generations rather than acknowledging and correcting the wrong-doings of the generation in which we live?

And how can we correct the the wrongs of our world, if we are not willing to work on the wrongs of our individual hearts?

For who can change the past by destroying it, whether in the life or their community?
We can only ruin our individual and communal future by mishandling what we do today.

Earthly change means nothing if it does not impact eternity.

On this #communitySaturday, we are in need of revival. May the love of Jesus Christ enlighten our minds and affect our hearts. May a genuine relationship with Christ impact our interaction with humanity; to respond in love... not as the world expects, but as God leads us. Pray we would not look at the world through the filter of our life and experience, but through the love and grace of God, given to us by Jesus Christ and empowered to live out daily through the Holy Spirit.

God, we cry out to you alone.
For you alone can heal the brokenness of our sinful hearts.
Call us to repentance,
That we may forgive as you have granted to us.
For your glory, we pray.

- PNC

We live in challenging times; not because the world is difficult and complex, which it is, but because our understanding and perception of life is so "off-base" from it used to be not so long ago. So, it's inevitable that as society strays more and more from morality and truth that the Bible will continue to stand out and contradict the thoughts and actions of a society bent having less to do with the God of the Universe.

As a result, it's not a surprise to hear a pastor acknowledge that his words aren't politically correct, but one pastor I heard this week followed it up with the only reason that matters.

"I care about your soul."

Nobody is talking about being justified in speaking with malice or dealing with those we disagree with in a mean-spirited manner. At the same time, there are no points awarded for being nice while telling a lie. There are no points for being pleasant while affirming what is false.

Our fight is not carnal, but spiritual.
The battle is real.
Showing true love means a willingness to fight on someone's behalf.

We're not fighting with people for the sake of disagreement or because we think we are "right". It's a fight over eternity and the soul is the true casualty after the appointed time of death that awaits each of us. It's not about changing your life so that you have a better or more pleasant journey on this earth. It's about changing your eternal destination as to whether it is spent in the presence of Almighty God.

How can one who follows the God of truth continually speak and affirm what is false yet still be considered a follower and seeker of what is true? If Satan's native language is a lie, how can he be defeated with another lie? Are you not participating in advancing his argument?

Truth and our understanding of it wins every time. But it does no good for those who want nothing to do with or refuse to accept it when it is told to them.

On this #communitySaturday, pray that as the church reaches and interacts with society, that we would once again, be declarers of truth. May the fear of repercussion not dissuade us, in our efforts to point people to the truth of God and the love of Christ. Pray God would grant up opportunities to those around us, to know how to speak the truth and do so in a spirit of love; that we would not be antagonistic or abusive with our words, but real and genuine in showing our care and concern for the souls of the lost and dying. For indeed, we were once lost and dead in our sin as well.

Truth, in minefield of lies.
To save from the enemies grasps
And bring to Christ the souls of those He is unwillingly to let perish
To be brought to repentance and experience redemption
For the love of Christ will not speak a compassionate lie over a hard truth.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

John MacArthur preached an incredible sermon series this past week on family and how the most basic unit of community begins with family... as I've often stated. Yet one statement in particular stood out, particularly as I thought of the application and implication of these words on my own life and in my own home.

"Family is the proving ground of Godliness."

I know, no family is perfect. We have our struggles and battles like everyone else. Kids don't always get along. Parents have bad days. Stuff gets missed and misplaced and life takes it's toll and somehow we all figure out ways to cope and manage. By the grace of God; with the love of God... and some days shear force of will.

As much as we know we must persevere in our faith, so to are the days where it feels as though we must persevere in family. But God is a god of relationships. As we were made in His image, part of that is shown through the relationship between the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Having created male and female in His image, it's the relationship of the two of them coming together that reflect the power and the synergy that reflect the character of God.

It is with that understanding that helps to explain why society is having such an elemental breakdown in the fabric of community. If the enemy of our souls is successful in disrupting and destroying the family unit, then Godliness never leaves the proving ground where it can influence the open market of society.

The power of family is the testing, learning and developing of faith and the understanding of God whereby we are empowered and equipped to step in to the world and be used for His sovereign plan and purpose.

On this #communitySaturday, pray for families. Pray for those who are struggling with the realities and complexities of life; where the struggles and challenges stand to destroy and tear apart the very thing that God has created and brought together. Pray for healing and restoration in the lives of those whose homes are broken or on the verge of breaking. May the power and truth of God be revealed; may understanding come into existence as we see situations and circumstance in light of what God desires to accomplish in and through our lives. Pray the broken and damaged things would be healed and made whole.

The power of family.
Created and quickened by the Hand of God.
To be used for His glory.
Reflecting the character and love of God
To a world in desperate need of true and eternal relationship.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

The more time I spend on social media, the more I understand why people take breaks from the forum and perhaps disengage altogether. Don't get me wrong, there some incredibly epic material online. Powerfully, profound perspectives. Hilarious moments of laughter that does good like medicine. And tons of sad and sobering stories that remind us of how precious life is, laced with stories that continue to tell us that politicians will be politicians to the bitter end.

Yet the more I read, the more I'm convinced, everything changes when we engage face to face. There's something about social media that empowers to people to speak on a level that they wouldn't engage in real life; certainly not to strangers passing them by on the street. But 30 seconds on somebodies profile page tells "all" and the assumptions are made and the attitudes step up to prove one's point that the other side is dead wrong.

Arguments of tolerance and love can't even be presented as in a tolerant and lovingly manner!

That's problematic.

It's as about effective as my raising my voice instructing my kid to not raise their voice to me. I will get called immediately by that child. They know better. As do I.

How do you speak on love with a tone of hatred?
How do you speak on compassion with a tone of anger?
How do you speak about understanding while resorting to name-calling
How can one show they are open-minded as they simultaneously attempt to shut-down others?

None of these are possible. Certainly not very easily when face to face.

Crossing of boundaries and blurring of the lines results in open doors of interpretation. And some things are not meant to be open to interpretation. There are absolutes. If we take seriously the parents' instruction on clean rooms, homework, curfew and chores then how can we look at God's instruction and surmise that what's in Scripture isn't what He meant? Will He not bring greater discipline and correction than the most loving and intentional parent?

On this #communitySaturday, may God help us as we engage the world around us; whether online or in line; Facebook or face to face, pray our conversations with be laced and graced with love and truth. May we be people of understanding, capable of declaringly unabashedly, the truth regarding the fallen state of humanity and the redemptive plan of God. God help us to live authentic lives with no compromise. May God break through the damage and the brokenness; the verbiage and the vitriol that society is expressing towards Christianity and those who follow Christ and reveal His perfect love that casts out all fear.

That would be His light
In a world quickly going dark.
Salt, to a world in need of preservation
One by one, face to face;
That they would see Christ in us
And through every fiber of our word and deed.
For God so loved the world.

- PNC

's #communitySaturday!

A day in which the post revolves around the concept and understanding of the church and how we relate and impact the world around us.

(at this point, I was just interrupted by the doorbell from our county's Democrat group, asking if I had any issues I wanted to discuss. After declining, I realized I should have taken them up on the offer!
Serious timing. That was funny)

What's not funny was my level of disgust in the past day or two.

There are so many disturbing stores in the news these days, and the situations and circumstances that are actually passing as "newsworthy" is simply mind-blowing.  At the top are these two pieces.

First, a situation from April 2016 somehow made it back into a social media newsfeed, when a  "prominent" musician (quotes, for the purpose of noting that I don't follow this genre, so I'm making an assumption of their influence) told a Christian Governor that she deserved to be gang-raped. There's much that I could say in response, but it wouldn't accomplish much. All I have is what I've told my kids...

There will always be people who won't like you; but don't give them a reason by being a jerk on purpose.

Worse, was late this past week, a pastor stated publicly that it was heresy to pray for the President. Seriously? Who we pray for is (or can be) considered heresy? Again...

To both the secular musician and to the church pastor; to the Governor and the President and everyone else on Earth and to those of you reading this guys perspective...

There will always be who won't like you.
Don't give them a reason for doing so by being a jerk a purpose.

What happened to pray for your enemies?
Pray for those who persecute?
Pray for those who revile you?
Who hate you, because they hated me?

As Timothy encouraged us; that all supplications, prayers, intercessions and giving of thanks be made for all men; for kings and for ALL that are in authority.

And why?

That we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

Obviously, this musician isn't in the know on this matter. But certainly, the Governor does. And I would dare say they are responding in prayer accordingly in their time with God. Even more-so, how does a pastor qualify praying for the authority of a nation as heresy? If that's true, then Timothy certainly has some explaining to do regarding his exhortation; which is what he calls it in the opening words of that verse!

Wherever you are; whatever your plans for the day... conversations, fellowship, gatherings and activities, clearly its effectiveness in displaying Christ is severely hindered if we are not people of prayer... for all people in all matters and walks of life.

Let's do that, shall we? On this #communitySaturday, pray for the President and kings and presidents of our nations; that God would use them to accomplish His purposes as He has placed them, respectively for such a time as this. For those in other positions of authority, may God do a work in their lives and may they come to the knowledge of His saving grace. Pray to for pastors, that they would lead their congregations to greater reflect the love of Christ rather than engage in divisive exchanges. While disagreements will inevitably exist, may God give us wisdom with our words and attitudes; that it would not be about agendas or rights, but of truth and righteousness according to the divine design and hand of Almighty God.

May our lands be healed
As God's people remain in prayer
For the battle is not carnal
But spiritual in nature.
Thus, may we be filled with Spirit
To fulfill the calling of God
For such a time as this.
For His glory.

- PNC

No community is ever perfect... at least not once past the picturesque appearance. No geographic community. No organized community. No church or cause. And at it's most basic unit, neither is a family community, ever perfect.

Yet, as we look around us, at our world, whether locally or at-large, we quickly see that the problems and chasms that exist on a large scale also exist to some degree behind closed doors. So effectively engaging community can be a challenge in our neighborhoods and outside the four walls of our local church because engaging with each other at home can present just as many challenges.

Communication. Expression. Openness. Honesty. Discernment. Responsibility. Identity.

Whenever any of the above elements are non-existent, twisted, out of balance or misguided, then there are strong odds that life will be a tense, stressful struggle.

We've seen too much of it already. Throughout our world. Throughout our nation. In our home states. In our home towns. In our local church. Yet all of those things are built as the result of what happens behind our own front doors and what enters or escapes the back door when we aren't keenly aware and alert.

I'll be the first to admit, I could do better. Could you? Could the church? Could our governing authorities? Yes, yes, and yes! And I for one will need the grace and strength of God and the help of the Holy Spirit.

On this #communitySaturday, let's pray that indeed, God would help us, even as we lead our families in the basic structure of community. May God grant to us strength and grace to lead and by the power of the Holy Spirit, may we do it well. Pray that we would do better in our communications and responsibilities. Pray that each of us would have, hold and live our identities in Christ. May God grant to us discernment, as we engage in our relationships with those in our homes and the communities at large, with which we are apart throughout the week. Pray that we would be effective in representing the character of Christ and the love of God in all we say and do, regardless of who is in the room and a part of the conversation.

For before that was community
There was family.
Dwelling in the presence of God
Where He desires all man would live.
For His glory and honor, we pray.

- PNC

At some point yesterday morning, I lost the idea I had for today's post. All afternoon, last night and this morning while laying in bed... racking my brain trying to remember where that train of thought was headed and alas... failing to find it.

But while I was sitting here with my laptop screen staring me down, as if to taunt me...

"You got anything to type? Huh? Huh? Do ya? Anything?"

I thought about the breaking that occurs when there is a disconnect within community.

We were made for community. So much so, that God Himself after He had made everything, looked at Creation and realized, there was nothing with which He could share... His presence, His glory, His being.

Thus, the vertical relationship with God begun. Shortly thereafter, it is not good for man to be alone. And the horizontal relationship was established, when Eve is created. God longs for relationship with humanity. Humanity desires relationship with those around them. And yet we fail on so many levels.

Society longs are a place to connect and yet fails to connect to with God, first and foremost. They fail to look to the church, second. We can all agree the church isn't perfect, nor the people in it, but it is the community God has established, that we might grow in our relationship with Him and connect with others, as well as be a unified witness of the love and glory of God.

As such, what a tragedy to hear, on both sides of the church walls, people wanting nothing to do with church or anything along the spectrum, short of coming to gather together with the people and presence of God.

Let's pray this #communitySaturday, that God would strengthen relationships within the church, that we may be a greater witness of the love and grace and glory of God. May God grant wisdom to work the problems and struggles that seek to divide and conquer us from within. Pray people would find their place, both in Christ and in relationship with man, for those where a seemingly disconnect exists; whatever the circumstance and reasoning. May we not seek God and community with God in the temporal and unhealthy places; but that people would be drawn to the person and presence of God through the love of the Christian community... to be a cup of cold water to those in need.

That the church would not be directed by society
But that we impact our world
And direct others to the face of God
That we would seek as His face in Heaven
As fervently as we desire to fill our lives on this Earth.
May God connect us with Himself and our neighbor
By the power of the Holy Spirit
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

We've discussed the past number of weeks on #communitySaturday, the power of engagement and how we present ourselves when we engage... that regardless of the situation, circumstance, or environment, we exist in a moment where we are with those who are without Christ.

Yet, the power of the Gospel exists in relationships.

He who wants friends must show himself friendly.

I heard it put another way, this past week...

...that he who wants to win some must be winsome.

Then we all have those days... caught up in what we are doing, totally unaware of why others are engaged in what they are doing and feeling as though we have a point of frustration worry to display. Having had such a moment the other day, I offered my apologies for my attitude, while hearing his situation. Yet, I found myself justifying my frustration by explaining that I had no way of knowing his circumstance, for surely if I did, I would have been more understanding.

Shouldn't my being in the dark on the matter been the prompt for being understanding from the start? No. My priority was more important than the problem he was sorting out. As it turns out, his is far more a life-changing matter than my momentary inconvenience as a mark in the day.

Thus, we all have our moments.

Less than pleasant. Less than nice.
Less than the reflection of the character of Christ.

(see what I did there?)

On this #communitySaturday, pray God would help us to not be so earthly-minded that we are no heavenly-good. May we view our place in the world as opportunity to impact the kingdom of Christ. Pray that we would become lovers of the truth and of God, desirous for those around us to no longer be slaves to sin, but free in Christ. Though the days may be difficult, may we possess an awareness of the presence of God, at work in all circumstances that people may be drawn closer to Him. Pray God would give us wisdom and compassion in our conversations and interactions; that many would experience the cross as the recognize that the church cares for them.

Winsome.
That we might win some.
For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I watched a thread on social media in the past 24 hours or so and I couldn't even keep up with all the comments and back and forth as people responded to the post itself and everyone else' comments, opinions, sarcasm and theology. What an incredible conversation. As always happens in these debates, the original poster even got called out and into question, on a number of levels.

Ultimately, though this was the acknowledged realization of this man whom I greatly respect and I have to agree with him.

The post, even if done in error, served to "expose an angry and vindictive spirit in the church... one that must be confessed if we are ever to reach the world for Jesus"

I've posted in the past, who the world is seemingly coming to the place to the truth of Mylon LeFevre's song from decades ago; that if we are going to witness the Gospel of Christ, the world will be won by one.

Social media posts aren't changing the minds. Nor are they allowing the Holy Spirit to change hearts. People are seemingly wanting less and less to do with church, while recognizing that something is missing from life. We are more sensitive to offense than we are sensitive to the truth. We recognize and respond more quickly and passionately to the offense than we do the truth. Whether inside or outside the church, being "called out" has, or remains becoming taboo.

And yet, that's what Christ does. Call out. He calls out for relationship. He calls out for discipleship. He calls out that He may change the hearts and lives of His Created. And yet we all stand resistant.

Welcome to the sinful nature of man, that wages war in all of us against the things of God.

Pray, this #communitySaturday, that God would help us remain faithful to the truth of God and love of Jesus Christ. May the spirit of offense not hinder or derail the message of the Gospel nor our commitment to declaring such to the world. Pray that the church would live lives that would declare and speak to the change that Christ has made within us, before we ever utter a word. Pray that God would begin to move on hearts and minds to receive the truth of His Word and the power of the cross of Christ. May the church ever be mindful that it's the Holy Spirit that convicts and the Christian who simply shares. Pray the church would engage, in both love and in truth.

Now, more than ever...
May we know God
And desire others to know the same.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

The local, Christian radio station is the metro area does #payitforwardFriday. It's been incredible to listen the past few weeks of what they have accomplished, as individuals have called in, facing incredible dire and even crisis situations. And throughout the morning, the host plays clips from phone calls of those in the community who are moved with compassion to respond.

How can we send them some money.
I don't have much, but others helped me in a similar situation a while back, and I want to do the same today.
We own a company; how do we get in touch them and possible offer them a job.
The radio station partnered with a local charity, and gave a good, really nice, used vehicle... to a couple who has made incredible sacrifices as they fulfill their calling and ministry. The station shared their story and handed over the keys as a part of yesterday's program.

It got me thinking this morning, about the time a man at church asked how we were doing. We were in very hard place and I think my hesitation pretty much answered his question. He followed it up, by asking if we had food in the house. That was a Sunday after church. That Sunday night when we walked in to service, I was handed a stack. I'm not sure who he talked to, but we handed... cards with cash and gift cards for groceries and fuel. Quite a few. It was an amazing blessing and we made it stretch as far as we could.

Along with that, though, I was reminded of Jesus' words. Which is easier. To forgive this man his sins or to tell him 'rise up and walk'? But so that you'll know I have the authority and power...

What a powerful way to engage, this #communitySaturday, than to offer something tangible to someone, whether in obvious need or not, that might help relieve some of the stress, pressure and worry in their life. It probably won't be a car, or hundreds or thousands of dollars. But nothing says I don't care about you and your situation like the one standing next to them and doing nothing to help or bless.

Pray, this #communitySaturday, we would have a greater awareness of the needs and circumstances that surround us daily. May we not be so about our own lives and problems that we neglect our neighbors; for we are not blessed for the sake of hoarding, but for sharing. May we get passed the mindset that our $5 will do little, for Christ accomplish the miraculous even through meager resources. Pray that today will be a day that many are impacted with the message of Christ, because the church offered a cup of cold water, in whatever form they could and felt led of the Holy Spirit to offer.

That all may know we are His
By our love.
We don't have to change the whole world.
But we must start with the one where we live.
For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Think about things that are unhealthy. Once there is an awareness and an understanding of the situation, we should be about the business of correcting the matter. Although much stands in the way. Addictions and bad habits are hard to break. Of course, in the back of mind, as I write this, I'm think of a couple of physical issues in my own life that I've been putting off, in terms of getting corrected... so I guess this post on unhealthiness should come with a disclaimer.

What really stood out though, was in an interview yesterday on the radio, a concept was mentioned that was incredibly profound and true.

"An unhealthy relationship isn't a relationship."

I understand, we're never going to "get along" with everyone. Not everyone was meant to be your best friend. There are different levels of relationships and various levels of trust. But as understand with regards to our faith, relationships are a spiritual connection. There is meaning; there is purpose, this unity and fellowship. Thus, when it exists in an unhealthy state, when it is damaging and detrimental... can it really be considered a relationship when it is hazardous to your spiritual, emotion, mental and physcial health?

The baseline equation as we engage community? Speaking the truth in a spirit of love.

While the truth may be unpopular, that's doesn't mean it shouldn't be spoken. Despite people's reaction to not wanting to hear or deal with it.

So, pray this #communitySaturday that God would help us have, maintain and create healthy relationships. In troubled times when the truth is under attack, may God help us keep proper perspective and speak the truth in love. May we be effective in communicating the love of God to a world is desperate need of revival. As we've prayed previously, may the church exemplify the nature of healthy relationships with both God and man.

While sin has left holes in our heart
Christ has made us whole through the Cross.
For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I think building the kingdom of God is about the small things... it's about the way we go about our lives; and reach out to others. - Eddie DeGarmo

On this #communitySaturday, what could be more simple?

Sure, the grand gestures are moving.
The deep, meaningful moments and conversations have their place.
Power-filled times of gathering are awesome to experience.

But it is the insignificant; the little things that contribute. I'm reminded of the scene in Sleepless in Seattle, where Dr. Marsha is on the phone with Sam and asks what made his wife so special? Not knowing how to respond exactly, he finally responds with, "It was a million little things."

And so it is for the church. What are the differences we are making and contributing to those around us, both from within and outside the four walls of the church. Helping those in need, whether visible or not. Investing in relationships. Open and honest communication without the entrapment of offense.

Of course, if we don't practice making a difference in the lives of those closest to us through small and random acts of kindness, then how will be ever be illuminated to the possibility and vision of doing something great? As the old book reads, big things happen when you do the little things right. And let's be honest... doing the little things right can be a struggle.

Guess that explains so much emphasis on daily bread and worry not about tomorrow, nor be anxious for anything. For if you are not faithful with little, who will trust you with great treausre?

Really tempted to keep this #communitySaturday prayer short, in keeping with the sentiment.

God help us be faithful in doing the little things right and building the kingdom of God in the small things. Give us eyes that see, hands that help and feet that move. Not in our own strength, but with the power of the God and the anointing of the Holy Spirit.

Your kingdom come
On earth as it is Heaven.
For your glory.

- PNC

For many a years, the church experienced difficulty in connecting with community... mostly because of the stigma of certain life events and circumstances that contradicted the beliefs of Christianity. As a result, it ruined our ability to effectively be the hands and feet of Christ to extend love and grace to the person without giving a pass on the sin or behavior of the circumstance. To make matters worse, when people do come to faith, yet still have to live with the realities of their former lifestyle, decisions and circumstances, the church still struggled to minister to such circumstances.

The world continues to spiral, seemingly out of control, as more and more within society we see people "doing whatever is right in their own eyes". Of course it doesn't help, that I dare suggest people within the church do the same.

Yet, I was reminded again this week that communities will only be as healthy as the community of Christ is healthy. For how can an unhealthy church effectively turn their community towards right relationship with God through Jesus Christ? Furthermore, if we don't reach out to the special circumstances and challenges of life that people are facing during these increasing difficult times, then we will only see further decline.

People are facing serious strongholds and addictions.
Single parents are being overwhelmed with life as divorce runs away
Human trafficking and sex trafficking is nearing out of control levels.
Kids in foster care are at numbers beyond comprehension.
And many pastors and church aren't equipped.

Those that are, are witnessing amazing testimonies of grace. Which many more need to experience for themselves.

Let's pray, this #communitySaturday, that God would help us to better reach those in extremely difficult and challenging places in life. May He grant us wisdom in our conversations and guide us to to the tools and resources to truly help those in circumstances such as the aforementioned. Pray for opportunities to partner with other churches and organizations that are working in these areas of need. May God help the body of Christ to become a more healthy community within that church, that we may be more effective in helping the greater community live healthier lives with the purpose and calling of God upon their hearts and minds.

Effectively reaching the needs of those around us
Because of the work God has done in each of us.
For we were all once lost in our ways.
And we daily look to the Savior of our souls.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I'm having a good laugh this morning, but only for a moment.

My friends posted a video on social media of their daughter having a tea party. Mom and Dad are sitting on the couch and Mom is getting left out. As she's recording, she keeps asking, if she can of some tea. Her daughter, being a stinker, keeps saying "No" and walking over to Dad and pouring him more tea. She was bummed... laughing, but bummed.

I replied to her #momsnotinvited with #dadsliketeatoo.

What's not funny, though, is the reality of our society. We have been on a steady decline because of our Fathers. It's not entirely their fault. Politics and policies have helped foster the perception that more government help is available when Dads aren't present. The excessive consumer mindset has driven more Dads further into the workplace to help support the lifestyle. The portrayal of Dads on television and film... well, that's a whole other element. Divorce is through the roof and as if Dads being booted aren't enough, they are trash-talked to the community and the kids. This damages relationships (and it goes the other way, against the ex-wife)

As Dr. Meg Meeker explained in an interview this past week, discussing her new book, Hero, most of society's problems can be fixed by restoring Dad's. Drugs are rampant in neighborhoods, in part because we're are relying on police to come after the fact, rather than Dad being present to step in before the fact. Relationships with kids and teens are seeing irreparable damage, because Dad isn't there to daily show and reinforce love, confidence, values, integrity or faith. They aren't learning healthy friendships and relationships because they don't see Dad having valuable friends and a strong marriage.

Thousands of hours and millions of dollars... in government services and resources, in counseling and therapy, in court costs, legal battles, and law enforcement; in community relations and "curb appeal" of neighborhoods, drugs and rehab programs... and there's more you are thinking of, even as you read this.

We are witnessing the generational effects of having begun removing fathers from the picture decades ago and while we cry for their return, we keep looking for other solutions which don't hold a candle to what is truly needed.

They simply need to come home.

Will you join me, this #communitySaturday, as we pray for the return of Fathers and true Fatherhood. Pray for families and communities where Dads are absent and missing. May there be a process of restoration and healing whereby they would be able to step back into the picture. Pray for a movement of men who will step in and stand in the gap. Pray for marriages to be restored. Pray for communities to be brought back to life; that they would be places of hope and healing. May there be a spiritual revival, of Fathers coming to the place of salvation through Jesus Christ; whereby receiving the grace and forgiveness of God, that they would be able to extend to their homes, families and communities.

As the world begins and ends with God,
So, to, does society rise and fall with Fathers.
For while we were made in the image of God
We have been reduced to treatment worse than dogs.
May God forgive us and heal our land.
That we may reflect His character and His glory
To a world and a people desperate to know they are loved.

- PNC

On a number of occasions this past week, the word of the day throughout various conversations and sermons playing on the radio was "isolation". It's so easy to disconnect. Even when we look like we are connected; that just might not be the case.

Just because something is plugged in, doesn't mean that it is up and running.

Likewise...

In our friendships and relationships, it's entirely possible to be "together" yet, exist at some level of isolation. As if the television was on while people sit on the couch browsing Facebook or Craigslist. And I get it. It's easy to do.

Long days at work. Decompress. Disconnect. Put on a distraction or background noise.
And disappear into the abyss of a phone screen.

I'm not criticizing anyone. If anything, I'm acknowledging my own guilt.

So, on this #communitySaturday, it begs the question. Are you engaged?

What are you doing to engage?
What connections are being made?
Do your relationships sense and understand their value?
Are we living life intentionally?

Of course, if we are isolated externally, then it's hard not to consider if and where we are isolated internally? And more importantly, what is state of our connection with our Heavenly Father?

Let's pray this #communitySaturday for those are living in isolation. First, may God strengthen and minister to those whose connection with Him is in a sad state of affairs. Pray for Christians who are struggling in life as they feel spiritually, emotionally and psychologically isolated. Pray for a greater understanding of the times in our life and a greater sense of appropriately disconnecting from the problems of everyday life as well as making intentional moves to connect rather than withdraw. As move towards a healthier state of faith, may we take more steps to connect with others; that we may help keep them from the dangers and pitfalls of isolation.

For we were made to live life together.
Connected to each other
As we are connected to Almighty God.
May we not forsake the people and relationships God has granted us
That remind us of His love and grace...
To reflect Christ to a World in need of Him.

- PNC

We often take this time on #communitySaturday to pray God would help us impact our community with the love and message of Christ.  Yet, if I can change things up this weekend...

Meet Lee Shaw, who you can read and hear about some of his story here:
www.napachaps.com/chaplain-lee-shaw.html

Shaw, was a local pastor in 1996 when he was approached by the police chief to minister to the law enforcement community. Today, he leads a team of chaplains who minister in times of crisis to agencies and communities in 15 counties! Shaw wrote a letter to a pastor friend who shared the letter in a sermon I heard the other day. To hear the details of this letter is astounding. You can imagine the scenarios and the crises that were outlined.

Families dealing with the aftermath of an accident
Families dealing with the announcement of an officer injured or killed in the line of duty
Helping first responders cope and continue with life after repeated trauma scenes.
And so, so  much more.

Just replaying the list in my mind and recalling my reaction... at one point it was just dropping. The list of scenarios and situations just kept coming.

But what a transition, to step outside the four-walls of the church to be even further to the front-line of the community by ministering to people in times of extreme crisis and trauma. What's beyond even this... Shaw traveled to Ground Zero on three separate occasions, he was on-site at Sandy Hook and also, in response to Hurricane Katrina.

Thus, the impact we can make on our communities and those who serve the front-lines of our communities are great. And the opportunities are greater. Yet we can all begin in prayer.

Would you join me, this #communitySaturday, in pray for Shaw and his team and others like him (i.e. my cousin, who is a military chaplain). Pray that God would strengthen them as they serve, for if the potential for burnout exists anywhere, it's on the front-line of trauma and stress. May they be surrounded with people who would be their encouragement as they encourage and minister to others. Pray that God would go before them and prepare the way, for the never know what they what sites and circumstances upon which they will step.  Pray for protection. Pray for wisdom; that they would be empowered by the Holy Spirit; to share timely words in moments of tragedy; to speak life in spite of great loss. May ministries like this witness the miraculous, as God moves in the affairs of man, even at most chaotic times of life.

All for His glory
To show compassion.
To share grace.
To express love.
Though life may change on Earth,
May lives be changed for Eternity.
To reflect Christ to a world in need of Him.

- PNC

Is it just me or are the days running together? Faster. More frequently. It's getting harder to remember what happened and when. Either that, or I am getting older. (And everybody older than me reading this says "just wait until...") I can see the comments already.

I think it was last Sunday (see my point?) that we were discussing cross-generational churches. Then yesterday on Equipped Radio with Chris Brooks, I caught part of interview in which they were discussing research on the millennial  generation and what they loved about their church.

Overwhelmingly, the response that stood out, was that church was like a family. It's truly how it should be, as we are the family of God. Scripture is replete with we are His children and joint heirs with Christ and the like.

One conversation they shared was the research they were doing with a particular focus group when I young person started attributing their love for their church with the name of one man. Then everyone in the group agreed, upon the impact of this "guy". Hearing of his involvement, they were prepared to meet someone who was just an incredibly engaged young, youth pastor.

On the contrary, and quite to the contrary at that... the man everyone loved is 77 years old. He attends kids sporting events; visits school campuses, connects with them over coffee or whatever and genuinely seeks to impact the generation coming behind him.

All this got me thinking, naturally. As we the discussed the difficulty in fostering healthy families in the church if the leadership families are in various states of unhealthiness, so present is the difficulty in fostering effective community relations outside the four walls of the church, if the church body itself isn't a healthy, functioning community. The 77-year old saint being a prime example.

Thus it begs a question for all of us, myself included.

Who in the generation before me, am I allowing to speak into and invest in my life?
Who in the generation that follows me, am I speaking into and invest in their life?

Thoughts to consider, as we pray this #communitySaturday. Pray for the church community to continue to reflect the character of Christ; to reach across the various dynamics that differentiate us and bring us closer together through the love and grace of Christ. May we people that make a greater impact in the communities in which we live because of the people within the church that have invested in us. Pray that we in turn, would continue to seek opportunities to invest in the next generation; that they may continue to the good work of bearing witness to the glory of God and the gospel of Christ.

May our communities be places of health;
Because our churches are places of health;
The result of healthy homes, being led by healthy people.
For God is working on all of us
As we allow the power of the Holy Spirit
To reflect in greater dimension the character of Christ.
For the sake of the world.

- PNC