Reminders come in all forms. From the glorious and noteworthy, to the nonchalant and matter-of-fact. And somewhere in the mix, is the painful and frustrating.  And what's today's reminder?

Every organization has someone in management, who will not only have an off-day, but when you least expect it, make it known that such is your present environment. Certain personalities, certain circumstances and industries... you can account for such possibilities; you can set a level of realistic expectation. There will be days of certain frustration and potential for problems and emotion And the culture and mood will not be one that someone would want to endure for an extended period of time, whether for hours, days, weeks, or even years.

What's the point? I'm not sure there's a more saddening statement to hear, than one speak aloud, the frustrations of the boss in the workplace and it is being caused by someone within the church leadership or even the pastoral staff.

I really don't know what to offer or say in response. But just consider your own frustration and move it to a church environment. Does it change your perspective of what's going on? More importantly, does it change how you should respond? And it seems as though the disappointment of it all, would rise to another level.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors who are perhaps, unknowingly, creating a frustrating and difficult working environment. Whether it be for personal reasons, ministerial pressures or problems and stresses that they are simply having a hard time managing, pray that God would do a work in their hearts and minds. May He give them solutions where there problems, direction where there is confusion and peace  in the midst of storms. Pray that God would wisdom, for all parties involved, to know how to properly engage and respond, in a manner that glorifies God, honors each other and allows for truth to be spoken with grace and love.

Working together, better.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I'm reminded once again, of a very simple, yet profound truth. It's basic to the process, but crucial in our understanding.

With great organization, comes great effectiveness and efficiency.

Correspondingly, where there is a lack of organization, the results of effectiveness and efficiency will not only be hindered, but possibly elusive. Consider the beauty of cool looking puzzle. Everyone is impressed with the final result. But at the beginning? Well... enthusiasm to see the project through to completion often wanes, with out a plan of attack and a systematic approach, to see what all the pieces are and how and when they fit into the grand scheme.

The power of organization. It does so well, when everyone is healthy, firing on all cylinders and each being utilized to the best of their abilities to accomplish what they were designed and created to do. But when things are a amiss, the motor will run not so smooth. And eventually, the wear and tear continues to create a decline and a detriment until problems emerge... at a very noticeable and perhaps troublesome level.

Which got me thinking. What's the difference between a church on the rise and a church in decline? The point person arranging the puzzle pieces. And that's not always the senior pastor. Yes, they need to be casting overall vision. But so should the ministries within the church. And integration to help each other. And the people who can move them to be self-sufficient ministries and organizations on their own, where and when possible and warranted.

The church should be so much more than just Sunday morning. And the most effective ones are.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, for churches that are struggling to make the impact they hope they would. Whatever their current position and size, pray that God would drop a dream in the spirit, of what could exist. Pray they would understand what God would have them to accomplish and how to go about it, as well as putting the people in the right places and providing the resources necessary. Pray also, for those who are highly organized, dreaming big dreams. May God go before them, as they are stretched and challenged to believe and pursue the impossible.

Every community can be changed
By a church that is ready to go
And be the hands and feet of Christ extended.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Oh, for the power of positive community!

If you've been reading for any length of time, you know I try to stay focused on big picture concepts, rather than specific scenarios or real-life events. But yesterday was pretty incredible, and the parallel analogy that followed, was both profound and somewhat heart-breaking.

The Salvation Army has a #bedandbread program which runs 365 days a year. They serve 1.4 million meals and 131,000 beds. Their impact is amazing. And opening the website for donations Thursday at 8pm, then holding a radio-thon from  6-8, they raised just over 1.5 million dollars. In 24 hours!! And there goal was 1.4 million in funding.

It was incredible to listen to, as people called in and corporations stepped up, as well as various influencers, leaders and other well-known names contributed and set matching gift challenges. It was awesome.

And here's where the parallel universe came into play and I tread lightly. Earlier this week, you no doubt read of a certain political, presidential candidate raise a whopping, 6 million for his campaign (or just a few bucks shy, technically).

I understand campaigns are expensive. And this forum certainly isn't the spot to be debating politics, regardless of which side of the aisle you vote. But while politicians haggle and talk about societies ills and communities problems, those on the front lines of work; being the face of a solution to the face who is living the reality of the problem are changing lives and correspondingly, the world. Maybe not globally, but definitely, locally.

And what if every local community had one less "problem" for which politicians had to make so much a priority as a part of their election campaign as to generate, 5, 10 and 100 times over the financial need of these organizations.

It boggles the mind. And mine, as I sit typing about praying for pastors and church leadership, realizing even I, could pray so much more than I do. Yikes.

So, pray this #communitySaturday, that God would help us to make a greater impact in our communities. While how the work gets done is important, pray that people wouldn't talk about doing something more than actually do something.  Pray that lives we be changed as relationships are built, help is offered and steps towards a different and better outcome are made. Pray for generational curses to be broken, in terms of drugs, addictions, abuse and poverty. Pray that homes and marriages and families would be restored, and hearts turned towards Christ.

For a community is only as healthy,
As the health of its citizenry.
May who live there
Live for the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Continued thoughts and prayers for my friends, combined with Monday nights' discussion on what it means to not only be a man, but in particular, a Godly man has me thinking about pastors and their kids. We've all seen and heard stories of pastors who placed the congregation before their family and both suffered at various times, to varying degrees.

How much more detrimental for pastors' whose focus is children and young people, while they have kids and teens at home. The difference may be minimal and the distinction faint, but I have to think that certain situations may bring certain emotions to the forefront. Like does a spouse feel neglect when the other pastoral spouse spends more time helping other marriages than work on their own. Or the youth pastor that talks more with the teens in the group than the teens under their roof.

So it goes back to the conclusion we came to Monday night. Life is nothing, if not lived intentionally. And like a said the other day about $1 spent on this is one less dollar spend on something else, so too, is 10 minutes spent on one activity is 10 minutes not spent on another. Or with another.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would help pastors who are struggling to manage their time and relationships well. Pray for grace and understanding, especially with their families. Pray for balance, where perhaps things have not been balanced. Pray for trust to be restored, where it has been broken. Pray for healing in those relationships where there has been hurt and damage. Pray that God would help them to be better leaders, not only for the family of God, but for their own families. not to be perceived as a perfect example, but an experienced example.

For we were made for community
And the family of God begins at home.
For His glory.

- PNC

I read with heavy heart earlier today, the social media post from a friend who is a senior pastor. And while I'm waiting for permission to use some of the excerpts from his post (and it is public via his blog as well as the announcement made in his church), I simply shared his post on my personal page with the sentiment that the often unknown and untold stores of the struggles pastors face is both the evidence and explanation of what keeps me working on this project.

I simply can't fully fathom the battle my friends are facing in their family. The responsibility of ministry simply adds a whole other layer of complication to the equation, as all of us have experienced the struggle of balancing time, relationships and commitments.

I know I'm not giving details and I would like to give some, but the bottom is line is that there are seasons. And we have to recognize when a different strategy is needed to win. The end result, is that my friend is taking a month-long, leave of absence from the pulpit, to both lead and fight for the health and wellness of his family.

So while there are many other pastors in similar situations, on this #seniorPastorMonday, would you pray specifically for my friends? Pray that God would give them strength to endure and persevere. Pray for the miraculous healing and breakthrough that needs to occur in this battle they wage. May the spiritual attack which has come against them subside and may the power of the blood of Christ wash over them. Pray that God would grant them wisdom and discernment, in both the day to day decisions of life as well as the major decisions that will help guide and direct the days to come. Pray that they would emerge victorious from this battle; refreshed and renewed to continue in the ministry and calling God has placed on them to return to the church and community they serve.

For the battle is already won
As God hands them the victory
For His glory.

- PNC

 So, I came across one of the associate pastors' posts on social media earlier today. He was at church with some of other leadership, holding a meeting for those interested in becoming members of our church. Over sixty people in attendance! How awesome is that?

Membership is such a cool concept. The skewed view, is that it is a form of exclusivity and "better-than" egos and attitudes. And sadly, that's an incorrect, and detrimental perspective... at least when it comes to religion.

What it is, is an alignment. It's a partnering together, in which both parties are benefiting from the relationship. In order for that to be true, both parties need to be contributors in that relationship. It's a coming together for unity of purpose and commitment to the process. There is commonality of goals and a joining of skills and connections to pursue and accomplish them together.

Can such things happen in an organization where membership is not a clearly defined distinction of the people involved? Sure. But it also gives opportunity for people to more easily disconnect from an organization. In a formal agreement, if any point something occurs that prompts my disagreement, there's an obligation to resolve whatever is happening. Otherwise, without an established agreement, one can simply say they disagree and leave.

People may not know there's a problem. They don't have an opportunity to understand the problem. Address the problem. Correct the problem.

The bypassing of that simply 4-step process, not only kills relationships, but ultimately, it will destroy a community. Continued disconnects that go unresolved for indefinite periods of time dissolve whatever the people or organization was coming together to accomplish in the first place.

So, pray this #communitySaturday, that the church would be a place where people are unified in purpose, vision and mission. For an ever increasing commitment to the cause of Jesus Christ and the advancement of the kingdom of Heaven. Pray that the church community would be a force for good, bringing benefit to the communities they serve as the express the love of God through the establishment of relationships. Pray the church would be strengthened, not allowing problems to go unnoticed and uncorrected. May the enemy not gain a foothold, where personal preference, attitude and ego dominate the church culture; but that Christ alone would be glorified.

For the advancement of the Gospel
And on the Earth
As is the kingdom of Heaven.

- PNC

While America is going through some serious moral conflict of ideology within the nation (and has for decades now), it's imperative, that we (read: the church) don't forget, diminish or neglect the serious battles that the global church and missionaries are facing elsewhere.

It's easy to get caught up in our own lives, our own problems, whether they be legitimate or #firstworldproblems only, and the struggles and battles we face. We do it as individuals. We do it as families. As companies and at an organizational level. Even the church can isolate itself at times, from both the secular world and the rest of the Christian community. Perhaps it's necessary for a time and season. But certainly, not as a continual state of existence.

While we face ideological battles when serious consequences, Christians and churches around the world are in battles over their very existence. Both at an organizational level and literally, for their life. It is indeed a crazy day and time in which we live and are witnessing. They need our support; but they need our prayer. It's easy to leave them out, and it shouldn't be that way. I know. I've done it.

So, let's pray, this #missionsFriday. Pray for those whose lives are both on the line and in jeopardy. Pray that God would strengthen them and bless them for what they have sacrificed to date, for the advancement of the Gospel. Pray that God would soften the hearts of hearers, from the paupers to the palaces. Pray that God would give them favor and influence in the place of attack and oppression. May God bring healing to the lands in which they are, just as we pray would pray for the healing of our own nation.

For as there is one Christ,
So it, is there one body of Christ.
Those who are His
Faithfully serving the Gospel
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Yes, I'm writing this later in the day...again. It's okay. You'd figure it out soon enough, when I opened this post with how I found myself chuckling in my spirit during this morning's service. Yesterday we talked on here about letting love conquer. And at church, today was the second in a series dealing with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The emphasis was in particular, on the gifts of faith, healing and miraculous power. In closing, pastor asked the question, "how do we "activate" the gifts.

It was then that he pointed out what we find about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 12, we read about what they are. In chapter 14, we read about how they function in within the body of Christ and the life of the believer. In the middle... if they are used without love, it's meaningless.

For all the things the church does, in order to be effective and efficient in ministry, not just on Sunday, but every other day of the week and yet, if it's not done in love, and if we don't pray over our efforts with an attitude and understanding of love, then it all is for naught. Not only is that disconcerting, it's downright sad.

With that impact being made, let's pray this #effectiveSunday, that indeed, everything we say and do for the advancement of the Gospel and the kingdom of God would be done in love. Pray that the more we know and understand God's love, that we would walk and act in continuation as we go about our days. Pray that the gifts of the Spirit that we are to eagerly desire, would be put to great use, because of the love of God that flows from our being and through our lives to others around us. May we be known, as we are to be known, by having love for one another.

For while our hands can accomplish much,
They do so much more when multiplied by the Hand of God
And the power of the Holy Spirit at work within us.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

It seems as if daily, there's another argument made for the need for the truth and for telling it. And for the past few days, I've found this phrase repeating.

Truth Protectors.

Know the truth. Yes.
Declare the truth. Yes.
Hold fast to truth. Absolutely.
Protect it? Um...

An interesting perspective, if you will on the concept of protection. We often think of protection as shelter, which it is. It's also boundaries and limits, as much as people like to argue they don't have their place. They do and they know it. But I would submit that protection also involves preparation.

Protection is making sure my kid doesn't run out into the street. At the same time, protection is giving that same kid the skill and mindset necessary to safely navigate the street, whether through walking, riding or driving. I can't protect them by refusing any interaction with traffic. The kid needs to know how to navigate the situation. And substitute traffic for any other issue of life. Dating. Drugs. Career. Relationships. Politics.

Ugh. The arena where so many leaders having seemingly forgotten about truth or they ignore it. I'm not taking sides, nor convincing you of anything. But here we are bombarded again with narrow narratives, rather than exposed truth. Perhaps because Colonel Jessep was right. Too many people can't handle it.

Perhaps too many can't handle it because not enough people tell it. We've sheltered it, rather than used it wisely in the public square. And now, when seen in public, nobody knows how to respond to it; as if it is a lost and foreign concept. And here's a play on words that you can read into whatever you will; I trust you're mature enough to handle it. Isn't it strange, that we are seemingly more open to allow what is unknown into our lives, while rejecting what is known.

I don't care what God has to say about my life and His plan for me, but I'll call a psychic hotline on late-night television. Um, what?
I don't care what God says about my finances, but we need to buy a new car, cause Joe down the street got a sweet, new ride. Too much?
Relationships experience a similar dynamic all the time.
You get the idea.

Consider this... if the church starts forgetting, ignoring or diminishing the power of truth; just how much trouble are we in? Is this a big deal in our churches? I don't know. It certainly seems like it is a growing problem, though. And you could probably tell me stories of how big and how long this has been the case.

If the truth doesn't matter, then nothing else does either. 

So, pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, that those who sit at the heads of our local churches, would indeed, be truth protectors. May they boldly speak the truth and steadfastly hold on to it. Pray that they would know it for when it is obvious and may they seek it, when it is not so obvious. Pray that would neither be a wavering from it, nor a recklessness in their handling it. May they use it rightly and often. Pray too, for those who need to hear it, for they are many. Pray for revelation in their hearts and minds, that they would receive it and in doing so, may their lives be transformed by the power and hand of God.

For the truth accomplishes so much more than deceit
For those who are willing to forgo the temporal for the eternal.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

An early lead, is better than a late start. Especially, when, regardless of when you start, you are committed to see the process through to the finish. However, both positions have the deterrents. Getting a later start on something can cause just as much frustration as it does excitement. With every advancing step, you're tempted to kick yourself for not starting earlier.

Yet the earlier the start, the longer the road to traverse. For experiences and encounters, while providing great fulfillment, also offers competing opportunities for frustration. So you find yourself more motivated to advance or more quickly experiencing the fatigue and exhaustion that leads to burnout.

It's an especially interesting dynamic when it unfolds in leadership roles. It's hard to figure out which person you admire more at times. The one who has overcome a lifetime, whether almost literally or seemingly figuratively, of battles and setbacks yet persevere. Or the one who had a well-established foundation and started off on the right foot. It doesn't diminish the fact that they haven't had challenges and disappointments; it's merely a fact, that they have a long-time to make a powerful and lasting impact.

Of course, as I type this, none of us know how long we have. Perhaps a year. Perhaps 60 or 90 more. Why am I writing this as it relates to associate pastors? Because the people who fill these roles run the timeline of age and experience. Young people who have a solid foundation and early start for a long-lasting ministry abound. Conversely, an innumerable amount of older believers, some of whom have come to faith following years of a difficult life and step into church leadership ready to help others, whether they be younger or older than themselves.

The potential and prospect for incredible ministry is great for both of them. But so is the reality of burnout.

So pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, that God would strengthen both the younger and the older, who are help to lead the coming days of the church. May God grant to them, wisdom and discernment in the conversations and circumstances in which they engage and experience. Pray they would stay motivated and determined in their purpose, callling and responsibilities. Pray that neither past challenges nor the ones in the coming days discourage them to the point they would feel the desire to step away. May their faith remain strong; their resolve firmly planted in the hand of God.

A lasting impact for eternity.
Regardless of where they start
Regardless of when they start.
So long as they finish. Well. Strong.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

It's amazing at certain times of difficult and stress to witness who comes to the forefront to offer some sage and timely advice. And this past week there were numerous instances of such moments, including this phrase...

"Don't die on this hill."

I'd ask you what you are choosing to care about, except I know a handful of things I could re-prioritize.
I'd ask you who you are choosing to influence, except I know I'm not nearly engaged as much as I wish I were.
I'd ask you what is is that bothers and upsets you to the point you would "go the mattresses", except I have my own list I should probably revisit and clean up.

We pick some interesting conversations and even more interesting people and questionable times, in which we choose a subject matter to engage. Not to the point of literal death, but we miss signs and clues as to points of exit. Perhaps continuing the matter is futile. Perhaps there is greater satisfaction in the argument rather than the solution.

Whatever is going on, the list of people and the hill on which they "died" is incredible. Yet, there's only One and one hill that matters to all, for all eternity. Every other cause, every other agenda, every other "hot topic" of the day... they all pail in comparison, not only to what Christ did, but to that which ultimately, He has required of us. Yet how often do we get it wrong, choosing the temporal hill for the eternal hill.

Pray this #missionsFriday, for missionaries and believers who are under great attack and persecution. Pray for strength to endure and faith to remain steadfast. No matter the trouble or trial, may the keep their eyes ever focused on God, confident of their eternal reward. Pray God would accomplish the miraculous through their lives, testimony and ministry. And pray for the rest of the body of Christ. May we choose careful the "hills" upon which we stake our claim and reputation. May we not lose the clarity of purpose and conviction that God has not only brought us to, but called us to do and to be to a lost and dying world.

May the cross of Calvary
Be ever present as we go about our days.
For on that hill
Christ changed eternity.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

There's so much of life, the we look at, as cause and effect... in a reactionary way, yes, but in a process. The classic, "if, then" statement.

Then there's the song, So Will I. A truly powerful song, that I reflected on during last nights joint service, when men's and women's ministries comes together once a month with the college/career group.

So Will I talks about the vast greatness of God and puts into perspective what our response to it should be, as we position ourselves in relationship to who God is. And the chorus walks us through several justifications.

If the stars were made to worship, so will...
If everything exists to lift You high...
If the wind goes where you send it...
If creation reveals God's nature...
If Christ gladly chose surrender...

And a number of other similar statements; all as a reminder that while we might have reason for not doing and being as God would have us to be, we have, as the song states, a billion better reasons to do and be what God has called us to be and to do... and to go.

As the service progressed and the men gathered for their session, the long-term youth pastor, now associate pastor, shared some of his story. As a point of detail in the background of his ministry, reluctance to step into a formal, pastoral role. As if the responsibilities didn't "scare" him off, but the title itself. We've prayed before that sometimes titles can stand in the way, to the point that we don't engage or fulfill our purpose at any level.

But even still, sometimes there is just enough that stands in our way that we don't fully engage and take advantage of the opportunity that God would use to an even greater degree and measure than ever thought possible. And the power of the story is that there was one who sat across the table and called it out of him.

Perception. Discernment. Obedience.... to see it and to speak.
And to the hearer... to step forward in it.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, that God would do the supernatural, to break the barriers and fears that prevent pastors and would-pastors from stepping into the role and purpose that God has ordained. May God place people in their lives who would see the dream, calling and anointing that God is desiring to reveal and help them to respond in obedience. Pray that reasons to not do something be cast aside, in favor of the eternal reasons that God would have things to be done and courses of action to be taken.

May fear not hold us back from ministry,
But that faith would propel towards a greater impact.

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

- PNC

Some people, you look at in disbelief and consider how they have the nerve. In a confused state of wonder, you ask yourself why they are the way they are, believe a particular way, act, speak and engage in a particular manner. Depending on the person, it's a varying degree of annoying.

Others, you view in similar disbelief and consider their resolve. In an admirable sense of awe, you ask the same questions. And depending on the person, it's a varying degree of inspiration.

You have to admire the resolve of pastors. I don't know how one can't.

In a society where people ask for truth and evidence, but then reject it because they don't think one can set aside their bias and belief and offer objective truth. Of course, what is objective truth when that same society has abandoned the concept of absolute truth.

I can't fathom how often and long the days exist, where they feel as though they are fighting a losing battle. Losing for people who don't heed their advice, value their input, take suggestion courses of action regarding their life and or their faith. A losing battle for the hard-hearted who want nothing to do with God and the hard-minded, who want nothing to do with the church.

Do they know the battle is the Lord's? Absolutely. Does that take away the fatigue, hurt and discouragement that comes from standing on the front lines of faith? Not in the least.

The risk is great. The reward is greater. The days that feel as though the opposite is true? Perhaps too many to count. Dare I say, the pastors who have suffered burnout, could probably mark the day they that they felt the shift begin to take it's toll? Another reality we'd probably rather not acknowledge, but is all to real for certain pastors' existence.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for those pastors on the verge of breaking. Pray for those pastors who feel as though they are losing their resolve to continue in the ministry. May they be strengthened and encouraged. Pray the Lord would lift them up and revive their spirits. Pray that discouragement and frustration, while it may not be removed for from them, would not overwhelm or dampen their spirit. May it deepen their commitment and quicken their desire to accomplish even more.

Staying the course
For the advance of the Gospel
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

 #communitySaturday is going fast!!  And I reflected on yesterday's post, about the things we choose to see with transparent eyes versus that which we block out, for all kinds of reasons, it's important and imperative to remind ourselves this simple point... #truthmatters.

I was reminded of this again, last night, in just how careless people have been in speaking the truth... or less than the truth. Furthermore, not only has the church, pastors and everyday believers at times, ineffectively communicated truth; but those who heard it have misconstrued it.

As a result, given enough time and diversion and we find people out opposite ends of belief, both trying to convince the other that they are "wrong". Nobody likes being wrong, especially in this day of relativism and "everyone wins" mentality. We talk about compromise and coexistence, not realizing that certain things simply don't mix. Like oil and water.

It's a trying time. It's a crucial time. It's a time for clarity in an age of muddied confusion.

How many are ready to speak it?
How many are ready to hear it?

On this #communitySaturday, pray that hearts and minds would be opened. Not to new ideas, perspectives and opinions, but open to the Truth. The truth of God's Word, despite all the times, they may have heard it presented wrong, misunderstood or witnessed its' misapplication. May we ever be awarre the times in which we live; not possessing a spirit of fear for societies repercussions, but a spirit of boldness, that God would accomplish the miraculous as we speak; hopefully under the anointing and direction of the Holy Spirit.

May today be a day of truth.
Of things revealed;
Hearts changed;
Lives transformed.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

**editor's note: if you recognize the title of this post, now I have the urge to go find Newsboy's album Going Public. It's somewhere in my collection.

Three days in and the idea I thought I had for this yesterday has gone missing!! New Year = new level of writer's block?

Let's change gears.

How awesome is the Word of God? Written by man, yes... but, inspired by God. God-Breathed. Under the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit. It should not be added to, neither is anything to be removed from it. So, did the writer's wait on God for every Word? Did they ever, with the stroke of a pen find themselves asking for a divine eraser?

Before we changed gears, trying to recall my idea, I was thinking about transparency. We live in a culture where it's often talked about out and our political leaders praise it's virtue, yet the irony is that the less they share, the more truth they seem to reveal. And where the truth isn't being revealed, our speculations increase.

Compare this to the revealing nature of God. He has revealed more than we can fathom and certainly more than we can explain. And yet there is so much to this life that isn't revealed. And so we wonder what God is doing. We wonder what is happening and why. The places and people involved and the truth of it all evades us. Yet God is truth and thus, if we seek Him, we shall find Him.

There is just so much attack around the world; against the Gospel, the Church, Christians... and the downright truth. His Word is Truth. And as much as we want transparency in our reality, we seem unable to hand the truth of eternity. Yet, missionaries, daily, stand on the front line, handling the eternal truth of the Gospel, dealing with a people desperate to hear, yet not transparent enough with themselves to know they need to receive it. What a delicate, yet troubled balance to walk.

A struggle for worse than writer's block... which oddly enough, seems to have cleared up quite quickly.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, for missionaries living in difficult places; not only their physical location, but also, the spiritual, emotional and mental state of being. Pray for those enduring an all-too real persecution and multi-faceted attack against them. May they be strengthened and encouraged by the power of the Holy Spirit. Pray that God wound continue to direct their steps and ordain every encounter and conversation; that no matter the circumstance and environment, there would be opportunity to present Christ and speak truth. The one and only Truth, that transforms our reality for all of eternity.

In a clouded existence
May clarity come
To reveal the glory of God.

- PNC

There's a scene on of the many brilliant episodes of The West Wing, where the administration makes a number of changes in the Ambassadorships, as far as the people who hold them are concerned. In the course of the conversation between the President and the Chief of Staff, the President jokingly comments on the changes, that if they continue and everyone keeps moving up, then he can go home!

I know... what's this have to do with pastors on this #deaconThursday?

It's simply a point of reference, as I sat in service over the New Year's weekend at the announcements being made in our own church leadership. Changes within the existing leadership and it literally was a series of three positions, that as the first one moved "up", someone took their place, leaving another vacancy to be filled. The connection made me smile and so I'm sharing it with you. You're welcome.

Of course, as the Pastor shared the back-story and the conversation that began 8-10 months prior to the changes being made; you get a sense of the prayer, wisdom and perception involved as church leadership comes together, seeks the face of God and carries on the conversations of what is God doing for the future of various ministries within the church and who should be casting and leading their future trajectory.

The business world calls it "scaling". Progress isn't a knock on people, resources or capacities. The truth is that every aspect of life reaches a point where the question of "what's next" (another West Wing reference) must be answered. Thus, if changes needed to be made and those will naturally require time and energy, then why not give due diligence to make sure that they are done right and proper?

The question answers itself. If only the prayer wrote itself.

Let's pray, this #deaconThursday, that church leadership would indeed give due diligence to the decisions and changes they are facing and discussing. Pray for an increased awareness and sensitivity to be on the alert for matters and circumstances that have yet to present themselves, but that leadership would benefit in taking a proactive approach. Pray for wisdom and discernment as they seek the face of God and discuss solutions and implement changes. May their be a covering of grace during times of transition and all the more in times of great difficulty and challenge.

For the best days are yet ahead
For those prepared to meet them.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

So, we had a missions-focused dinner last weekend, followed by a small panel during the Sunday service. A simple, engagement of conversation that provided the congregation insight into their lives. Among the many points of discussion where things like calling and direction. Then they closed out the conversation with what they needed in terms of support.

Among the very first answers, if not the first...

Friends.

We've prayed to this end before, across the board, for pastors and church leadership and of course, missions. But to hear it first hand, naturally, reemphasized the importance and power of high-quality relationships. It's especially important in matters and circumstances where stakes are high on a daily basis and the work is, if you'll permit the play on words, "mission critical".

In light of eternity, that's true. And while it may not seem that way on a day-in an day-out basis, missionaries have daily struggles and issues they face as much as anyone else does, if not more. Thus, if we value great friends and quality time and conversation with them in the realm of our comfort zone, how much more is it important for missionaries who have, quite literally, been called out of their comfort zone.

Friends are hard to come by, at least, it seems that way at times. Conversely, if we were honest with ourselves, we couild point to times and seasons where we probably weren't in the best place to show ourselves friendly and thus, the connection was missed. And perhaps the opportunity for the miraculous to occur.

People come and go. Sometimes on purpose. Other times by default. And then there is a distinct and specific parting of ways. But like so much else in life, they begin and end by being and living intentional.

So let's pray this #missionsFriday, for those missionaries who are perhaps lacking in quality friendships, both where they minister and where they receive their support. Pray that God would give them the right connections and conversations to meet their needs, build them up and raise the quality of their life. Pray that God would give the clarity, to know who has come into their lives to be a blessing and encouragement, rather than a source of contention and discouragement. May they have a discerning spirit to know how to meet needs and invest in the lives of those they come in contact with on a daily basis. May God help us, as much as He helps them, that we may each be a better friend; contributing to make the lives of everyone around us better than we found them.

For God has never left us, nor forsaken us.
The great, friend of sinners.

- PNC

I heard another sermon recently which talked about wisdom. And once again, received a painful reminder of the constant struggle of trusting in God and seeking Him rather than trying to figure it out on your own with your solutions, skills and strength.

It's not enough. It's never been enough. It never will be enough.

Let me ask myself the question that many have done for me many times... when will you learn?!

Shall we count the ways and times that I don't heed the words of Matthew?? Seek first His righteousness; His kingdom.

Him.

Neither what we do nor what happens to us is about us. We deceive ourselves that it is and we defend ourselves that it is, but alas, the eternal reality of it all is that is not... about us.

But ideas, words, and decisions do have consequences as much as they have rewards depending on the nature and intent of it all. We don't always remember that that's the case and we don't always enjoy when the fruit of that comes true, but it is, nevertheless true.

The struggle is great and incredibly real, but the necessity to seek the wisdom of God should always be our first and top priority. In all things, great and small.

Pray this #deaconThursday for those struggling to trust and seek God first. May that always be our default understanding and response; even in light of the most stressful and difficult of circumstances. Pray that church leadership would resist both the urge and temptation to talk and work through problems and challenges merely though man's solutions and perspectives. May God grant grace and wisdom as they seek His face in all they do as church and ministry to their congregation and community at large.

For the glory of God alone.

- PNC

There's a problem with a strong sense of self-awareness. Probably a few. And I guess, it's probably not so much a problem as it is, an ongoing struggle of realization, work and growth... repeatedly. 

It's the fact that while we hope and strive to be the best that we can be; not compared to others, but to what we know to do and to be who God has called us to be; yet knowing how badly we miss the mark. Royally miss.

Is it difficult to watch those in positions of influence and leadership fall and fail? Yes. And it's not the stuff that makes national news or spreads church-wide or even that which stays within the four walls of the home.

Goodness does not make perfection. It does however make plenty of room for improvement.

I'm not the greatest dad. Despite my youngest child's continual affirmation that I am... in her heart and mind. Yet, nothing hits harder than the moment where I realize that if I were watching myself from the outside, that "that moment" was not a "best Dad" moment.

And I think we do the same with pastors over every ministry, but especially with youth. The impressionable mind doesn't miss much, despite the parents understanding to the contrary.

"It's trash. You know it's trash. It was in your hand. How did you not throw it away?" (a recent conversation with a kid)

I think part of the appreciation that we find ourselves possessing for great leaders is knowing full well that they understand that greatness did not come overnight. It was a long process and it was significant amount of time and investment towards continual learning and improvement. Indeed, pride does go before a fall and those are the ones we often don't mind remaining low. However, humility is becoming and it's those leaders in which we desire to see overcome and rise again; greater and better than they were before.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that there would indeed be a humility about our lives, as we lead kids and young people, both in the faith and life as pastors at church and spiritual leaders at home. While pastors strive not to fail, pray that more importantly that would strive to never quit. May there be a grace and strength about their lives to walk in humility before God and walk in wisdom before those they lead. Pray that they would not be a source of frustration and struggle to youth, but rather a source of courage and power; that they are not defined by their faults and failures, but by who they are in Christ and what they accomplish for His glory with the talents He has given them and the calling He has placed on them.

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

- PNC

I posted a music video on a social media group page the other day, and while I missed some of the initial comments that followed, from the ones that remained ( I think a few got deleted, it seems), I could pick up that they were talking about when leaders or influencers have a moral failure. For the specifics of this post, they were talking about the band that I posted and the lead vocalist who had fallen.

But among the comments that followed, was one's opinion of how leadership needs to be held to a higher standard (which I agree with) and how they have but one shot in ministry. And that kind of troubled me. As if there is no room for grace. And even less room for restoration.

As I reflected on that mindset, I couldn't help but think of the leaders found in Scripture. If there is no grace, Samson doesn't get one last request to be used to display God's power. David's reign should be over after Bathsheba. Yes, there were great consequences, but today's political climate would require is immediate removal from office. Jonah dies in the fish if his heart does not change. Moses... pick a spot in his story where it should end earlier than it does.

Then there's Peter. Talk about a guy who shouldn't have gotten a second change a ministry. "Deny me before men and I will deny your before my Father in Heaven." Sorry, Peter. GAME OVER.

And yet, grace enters the picture and the process of restoration takes place. And Peter is never the same and obviously, the world is forever changed.

Even today, we discount ourselves and others from ever being eligible for a second chance. There will always be consequences; but God specializes in making beauty from ashes. Even when the ashes are our own doing... or undoing as the case may exist.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for those struggling with the failures and mistakes that feel as though they are disqualified. May the Holy Spirit minister to them anew and afresh. Pray for those who dealing with actual consequences and difficult challenges that have threatened their position and influence within the church and community. Prayer for a spirit of repentance and humility; of brokenness before God. May their not be a hardness of heart, but a pouring out of the soul in order that God may work the miraculous. Pray for churches that are going through a healing process as well as the pastors and families that are going through a process of restoration. May grace abound, truth prevail and love conquer all.

For salvation itself is a second chance
As is sanctification as we are refined
By the power of God
And the work of the Holy Spirit.

- PNC