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

Youth Pastor friends of mine are getting married this weekend. In honor of this life-event, I thought it would be good to share a great thought I heard yesterday during the radio broadcast of  sermon.

He was speaking on marriage and reiterated an often made statement, that with regards to ministry it's important to major on the majors. However, in marriage, the importance shifts to majoring on the minors.

Eternity is beyond belief. The kingdom of God is beyond description. The body of Christ is large; the depths of Scripture are like treasures buried in the tunnels of rabbit holes. And we could severely miss the miraculous of the Bible, the profound wisdom of His Word and the complexity of His character by focusing on the minor points of faith rather than the fullness of the Gospel.

Thus, in ministry, there's needs to be a focus on the things that matter most.

Conversely, there's marriage... which is full of difficulty without the pressure and responsibility of ministry. Yes, it's important to be on the same page on the major issues. Agreement and unity contribute to one's success and longevity. It's not that you'll always agree, nor feel united, but you're committed to getting through the process.

Meanwhile, there's daily living. And just like our personal relationship with God, it's the little things that contribute to the richness of the relationship. The time in conversation. The time in fellowship. The time in prayer and activity. These are not "big ticket" items. Yet, when they are lacking, the sense of richness is gone. And the door is left open for feelings of inadequacy and worthlessness.

This is when people start looking for an exit... both in the human relationship and their relationship with God.

And once again, the kids are watching.
At home and at church.
At the marriage of their parents.
At the marriage of their pastors.
At the marriage between the church and Christ.

Let's pray this #youthPastorWednesday. Pray for this marriage of my friends; that God would help them as they walk through life in marriage and grant them wisdom as the lead in ministry. Pray for the youth, who will sit under their ministry and watch their marriage. May they understand the depths and richness of a genuine relationship with God and a realistic comprehension of Godly and God-centered marriage. Pray for the homes of pastors and church leadership that may be experiencing difficulties; and the kids are indeed watching and learning about relationships at both a physical and spiritual level. May God work the miraculous in such circumstances; that healing and restoration would occur, and that grace and forgiveness would abound.

As a three-strand cord is not easily broken,
May the marriages of those in ministry be fortified
And ministry all the more effective,
As they operate from a place of health
Because their leadership lives and moves in health.
For the glory of God.
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I'm so excited!!

Friends from a former church we used to attend together announced last night, via social media, since is was "real-life" official, that they were venturing into the world of full-time ministry. They are taking a campus pastor position at one of the campuses of an area church.

The transition though...they have a road in front of them. Though life has been busy and we haven't connected with them in a while, one of these days, I'd like to get the full story; as he acknowledged that this was a change that he didn't see coming. Though they have been active in church ministry at some level for as long as I've known them, he is stepping out of a corporate gig in order to fulfill this calling and pursue this opportunity.

Steps of faith like this always amaze me. I have my suspicions as to the reasons why, but that's neither here nor there... at least not right now.

It doesn't matter if steps like this are taken at the onset one's ministry or well-seasoned and versed in ministry matters. What's next with God is miraculous balance of excitement given the level of unknown variables that exist. It's as if decisions in the corporate world can be narrowed down to specific, calculated risks while ministry decisions barely account for the risks. The sovereign hand of God simply trumps any calculated risks we could consider when it comes to ministry.

Yet, no matter where one is in ministry, no matter what they are instilling in their audience about the Christian faith, His purpose outweighs the plans of man. It's eternal. It's fulfilling. It's ever-lasting.  More rewarding. The list is endless.

Whatever the process, nothing man does holds a candle to what God desires to accomplish through those who are open to going wherever He leads. Even at the most unexpected times and places of life.

Join me, this #youthPastorWednesday, as we pray for those both in ministry and debating the prospect of ministry. May there be an overwhelming peace and confidence as God reveals His plans for their lives, whether for the first time or the next time. Pray for an unshakeable trust, even when the illuminated steps of our path are few to zero. Pray for God's provision and protection as such steps are taken; that resources, people and funds would at the picture as God ordains; frustrating and unsettling as His timing may be... may His peace surpass all our understanding.

For He works all things together.
Even when the change is unexpected.
For the supernatural move of God
Supersedes the natural works of man.
Every time. Without fail.
For the glory of God and the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

This 700 post milestone has had me thinking the past few days... what else would be different if I had been working on them as faithful as getting to this mark. It got me thinking, perhaps again, about habits and disciplines.

Fitness 2-3 times a week for the  past 23 months?
Saving $1-$5 every day for the past 700 days?
Memorizing a Scripture a day?

I caught an pieces of an interview the other day with Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife... she still has every love letter he has written her. And he still writes them!

Going back more than 700 starts to get a little depressing. As I consider this next generation of pastors that we have brought on staff even at our own church in the past two years, I can't help but think of the disciplines I wish I would have implemented in my life when I had more time, energy and focus to actually make them happen and apply them to my life,

My health would be different.
My financial outlook would be different.
My relationships probably would work better.
My approach to life might be less stressful.
Perhaps my career would  be different, if I were more critical in my education.

I don't say all this from a place of regret or frustration seeking sympathy; but from the understanding that whatever it is that we set out to accomplish, whether in life or ministry, or anything else for that matter, the sooner one starts the better.

Late starts, no matter how much you put in, rarely catch up to the place you would be if from starting earlier.

Thus, will you pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for this next generation of pastors stepping in to various places of ministry. Pray for strength and wisdom in whatever they set out to do. May their be a focus and an energy in their lives and their approach, that would set a foundation of living a principled and disciplined live and ministry. Pray God would place people in their paths, that would help guide and encourage them along the way; providing insight and strategies that would set them on a course for success; not just on this earth, but in their effectiveness for the kingdom of God.

For even as, today is the today of salvation for those who hear the word,
May today be a day of fresh starts and new beginnings.
For yesterday cannot be changed,
Tomorrow has yet to be written
And His mercies are new this morning.
Even this very hour as you read this.
For the glory of God, we pray these things.

- PNC

Well, we are here.

Yesterday was consecutive post #700. Today marks the start of the 24th month since the relaunch.

Wow, how time does fly. And yet, I know this pails in comparison to the years of service that pastors, missionaries and other church leaders have put in to the body of Christ. It fails to reach the number of sermons prepped or hours spent visiting those under hospital care. It fails to reach evangelistic efforts and time spent helping those less fortunate in the community. It does begin to reach the hours upon hours spent in prayer, seeking the face of God and the miraculous power of the blood of Jesus Christ.

While I'm proud in what God has helped accomplished through this, I know it's a fraction of a contribution. On it's own though; it looks different. And that's the power of perspective.

Certain milestones and benchmarks are reached and at times, it may seem like an opportunity to back off. For indeed, breaks are good. Everyone needs a break now and then. Yet it would be easy to look at such moments and decide to go out on a high-note, when there is still so much to do.

When we rest on our laurels and our trophies; the accomplishments we may have achieved, is usually when we are most prone to things going south. The temptation to coast is great; yet that is what begins the downward trend the moves us away from the great accomplishments that, by the grace of God, we have achieved before hand.

So, while congrats may be in order, be encouraged to keep up the good work and fight the good fight of faith.

Thanks for joining me once again; as we pray this #seniorPastorSunday. Pray for the resistance against temptation to rest on laurels and accomplishments. May the pursuit of the advancement of the Gospel and God's will always be at the forefront, even in the face of great success and victory. Pray that pride would not overtake the perspective that God is not done with any of us yet; that none have arrived. Pray a continual seeking of the face of God; that His hand would not missed, nor His directives misunderstood. May we see His handiwork, as pastors and leaders continue to seek to be His hands and feet extended to the body of Christ in service to the kingdom of God.

That we would ever be about the work of God
No matter how great the work is that is complete.
May we be as Paul,
Ever pressing on towards the prize of the high calling.
For the glory of God.
For the cause of Christ.

- PNC

Well, I am simply blown away. And my boast is in the Lord.

When I started revamping this site two years ago in May, I didn't know what God had in store; nor what this project would do in my own personal faith. June 1 marks the completion of two years. Meanwhile, today marks the threshold of 700 consecutive Daily Prayer posts.

I remember having the conversation with God when I was trying to figure out exactly what I hoped to see this site accomplish. I felt in my Spirit, God's answer was a very simple start.

"Well, you have webpage titled "Daily Prayer". Why don't you begin by writing one every day?

My only concern was how quickly repetitious this site would become, so I simply replied, "If I'm writing every day, I'm gonna need your help."

For any one in ministry, especially full-time, if there is any ever desire to be effective for the kingdom of God, that is the first response.

Whatever you want me to God... I'm gonna need your help.

I'm constantly reminded I can't do this life on my own. My faith. My work. My marriage. My kids. My finances. My health. This ministry project.

I fail every time I attempt to do it on my own and feel to seek the wisdom and strength from the hand of God. It's an easy enough trap to fall into... you have a good day and think it can be repeated. But the first time you leave God out, can be distinctly marked as if it were a skipped payment on your credit report. (not that God is keeping that kind of score).

Nevertheless... 700 of anything isn't without notice. Yet, it pails to what churches and pastors have accomplished, both in shorter periods of time and tenured ministries. And they, like myself, still only have one response.

Moving forward, God... I'm gonna need your help.

Thanks for joining me, these past 700 days. And let us join in prayer, once again this #effectiveSunday. May today be a day of victory for the kingdom of God. A day of 700 salvations. A day of 700 addictions broken. A day of 700 marriages restored. A day of 700 families healed. May today be a day of increase, strength and wisdom for churches. Pray that we would continue to arise daily and call on the name of the Lord. May we seek His face and see His hand at work in our lives; that through our reliance on Him, He would prove Himself faithful to do His part as we continue in the plans and purposes He has placed upon our hearts.

Lord, I thank you for the past 700 days of insight
Lord, I commit the next 700 days to you.
That You do what only You can do.
For my life and this project is nothing;
If you are not first in it and with it.
For your glory, I pray.

- PNC

"The most miserable man in the world, is not the one who is lost, but the one who is saved; and out of fellowship with God." - Adrian Rogers.

Is it possible that this statement could be any more true?

If it is not the epitome of burnout, surely it most be considered one of the pinnacles. It matters not, whether we are talking about an "everyday" Christian or a ministry leader... life happens to all of us. Life attempts to crowd out other things and other priorities in lives. Even as we've prayed for distractions and interruptions these past few days, we are continual barraged with matters that take our focus and attention from where it truly needs to be... the fellowship and presence of God.

Christianity is an intentional faith.

If we would rather not God be considered passive; One who has created us then left us to ourselves, but rather actively pursues us, then how much more should our faith be actively responding and interacting with God?

The human condition is broken.
Yet God is continuous in His attempts to bring us to a place of wholeness.
Meanwhile, man may or may not understand the fullness of the broken state, but is constantly attempting to find wholeness by any means other than God.

Even for the one who is saved, we can miss this mark... despite trying to accomplish it with Christian activity or things that revolve around the faith.

But long before Jesus called the disciples to accomplish anything for the kingdom of God, He called them to the simple concept of fellowship with Him.

So, as we pray for missionaries on this #missionsFriday, pray for those in various stages of burnout; who are finding themselves in states of frustration and distress because life and perhaps even ministry has crowded out times of fellowship. May God work the miraculous healing in the hearts, minds and souls and bring them to a place of wholeness as only He can accomplish. Pray for grace, as we are often harder on ourselves than what others place or demand of us. May there be a sense of forgiveness as God brings them through a process of restoration. Pray a return to be as intentional in our pursuit of God as He is in His pursuit of us.

That was meant to be distract, derail and destroy
Would only serve to strength our resolve
To remain committed to the things of God
To pursue fellowship with Him.
To fulfill the calling and purpose He has placed upon our hearts.
For the glory of God and the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I just want to say thanks, to those of you who join us daily in praying for our pastors, missionaries and church leadership. I trust and pray this is a blessing and is accomplishing the miraculous for the kingdom of God.

In terms of consecutive posts, today is #697! I can hardly believe how much time has passed and I continue to be blown away by the perspectives I sense God granting to me daily for the next post. In fact as I reflected yesterday on the volume of posts that exist now, I couldn't help but consider the ironies of God.

On rare occasion, there's been an event or conversation that has happened days after a post, but much more frequently, probably weekly if one were to keep track, the ironies come hours and at times, even mere minutes after a posted has gone forth. It's a remarkable phenomenon to reflect on, as I have shared them with friends at certain times.

Yet no matter what it is that you are working on, distractions will come. As a friend reminded me last night, even when you think you get a few good days in, the enemy attacks.

"Oh, all is well? How do you feel about this?" (insert new problem or dilemma)

We all get distracted and thrown off task. Yet let me say this... except for in the event of certain death or disaster, where you are found to be the only source of help, there really isn't so great a crisis to interrupt you that can't wait a few more minutes or sometimes even seconds, for you to finish the task at hand. Even if you can get to a place where you can safely walk away for a while without losing your place... for walking away to deal with the distraction can so disrupt the task, that it will cost you time for sure and potentially even money by not finishing.

Whether you get thrown off in the preparations that will make a task easier or you are actually working on the task and get called away, distractions have the potential to cause disaster or at least wreak some havoc into your life. It happens in the largest of organizations, it happens in the smallest details at home and it certainly can happen in ministry.

There will always be a new problem arising that will be trying to gain the attention worthy of being put at the top of the priority list. The problem is that you will find yourself stressed beyond what is necessary, for you will continually find yourself in crisis management mode, rather than productive, getting-stuff done mode. Sure, there are days and times for crisis mode, but making it a pattern of living... well, they pay experts good money to handle that kind of work.

So, thanks for joining me again, this #deaconThursday. Would you pray for church leadership and operations. Even as our church faces some projects to take care of on our campus, some of them unexpected, others were known in advance; may God grant wisdom and direction in managing and resolving these issues. Pray for the resources to made available to implement solutions; pray for the conversations that will occur in pursuit of those solutions. Though man makes plans in his heart, may God guide the steps our leaders.

That He may receive glory.
Even in the mundane and the daily tasks.
Whether they be trite and minor
Or major and heavy-hitting,
May God help us remain focused.
On the task at hand;
To the purpose which He has called us.

- PNC

I caught part of an interview with Chuck Swindoll the other day, regarding his latest book, on getting the most of the Scriptures. Pretty much from the onset, it took an interesting turn, as they talked about his childhood and growing up in the Swindoll home looked like. Amidst the description was his conveyance, that his parents rightly applied the Scriptures when it came to discipline and that it was indeed, a home where the grace of God was displayed, even when correction was a part of the conversation.

It prompted introspection even for me, to consider how well (or not so well, at times) I am leading my children.

At the same time, they started discussing the difficulty that permeated an entire generation within the church. They discussed the longevity; for how long and how quickly, for a time, parenting within the church turned to legalism and how often Scripture was not properly used for correction. Furthermore, the element of grace may or may not have been as present as it probably should have been... perhaps missing altogether. Are we missing a more effective church as a result?

Add to this, if we can, the difficulty of ministry legacy. In subsequent generations of pastors coming into the ministry from homes where parents were church leaders; how has the health of their home-life impacted how they approach pastoring? Even now, I'm trying to think of preacher's kids who, when they've stepped into ministry on their own, haven't started out working with kids and teens.

Thus, if they're coming into ministry having come for a home where the element of grace may have been lacking in matters of correction and discipline, one must consider how that will impact the next generation of kids.

I'm thinking of some of the challenges in my own home and thinking I need prayer! (insert smile)

Will you join me once again, this #youthPastorWednesday? Pray for kids and youth pastors that are struggling with ministry, because of the challenges they faced in their younger days. May God help them overcome, perhaps feelings of inadequacies or inferiorities... may their setbacks become the set-ups for their comeback. Pray God would grant them wisdom and discernment as they lead the next generation in spiritual matters and in the faith. May the pressures of a legacy ministry not weigh them down or burn them out, but inspire them; as they have witnessed the grace and goodness of God, may they be moved to share that experience all the more.

May healthy homes
Lead to healthy ministries.
That build healthy churches.
To impact healthier communities.
For the advancement of the grace of the Gospel.
For the glory of the kingdom of God.

- PNC

If you'll permit me to do an extension of yesterday's Rise & Fall post... that anyone within an organization is exposed to the possibility and opportunity for exhaustion and burnout. That's the nature of continuous effort and work that is not brought into balance with rest and reprieve.

An interesting observation about rising and falling; they both of their edges. We often don't think of the edges involved in the rise nearly as much, for we are focused on the pursuit that's in front of us. We understand the risks and the dangers along the way, but it's the reward that lays ahead that usually helps (at least a little bit) in terms of balance, because we know their is a process involved in the pursuit.

Fall-outs usually have very little control. The outcome of where you could land is relatively unknown, except for the worst case scenario of "rock bottom".

We talked briefly about the importance of wise and discerning friends in this process; for so often in times of burnout, one may not recognize their exact location relative to the edge. They may have a sense they are getting close; occasionally there may be a clue dropped along the way that causes wonder to wonder if a person is in trouble. But it takes a special kind of friend to speak up and speak the truth with love.

Do you realize where you are?

Edges are danger places to begin with; finding yourself in close proximity while also being distracted, frustrated or in a seemingly sense of fog just makes the potential for disaster that much more of a reality. Being brought to this awareness should also prompt change and first and foremost, a desperate desire for God to work the miraculous... perhaps beyond what you thought you may have known was already needed.

So on that note, can we pray this #associatePastorTuesday for the miraculous? Pray for pastors in need of a friend that will speak truth and life to the dark places; for those living closer to the edge than they realize... may God intervene and bring them back from the brinks of unknown disasters. Pray God would raise up friends and people within the church that would not only have a wise and discerning spirit, but that would have the boldness to speak into the lives of leadership, not from a sideline perspective, but from a place of love and relationship. May God bring clarity to places of frustration and fog; and that even in times of great distress and difficulty, that such times would be one more element of the testimony of the grace and glory of God.

As He continues to use ALL things together for good.
For those who love God and are called according to His purpose.
As even the struggles and trials of life
Are not beyond His reach;
Nor are they beyond His ability to work the miraculous.
For the advancement of the cause of Christ.

- PNC

We were blessed to have an incredible ministry organization be a part of our service yesterday morning and it is also such a blessing when they come and share the amazing, life-changing testimonies that are taking place. For their longevity as an organization and the impact they are making, pastor reminded us of the truth of one of Maxwell's primary points... "Organizations rise and fall with leadership".

As we expounded yesterday, it doesn't matter how large the organization or the church, or the family that matter... if the one(s) leading it are unhealthy, then thus under it's authority will suffer. For in all three instances, the world is set to take you out.

The world doesn't want your organization to do well.
The world doesn't want your church to gain ground for eternity.
The world doesn't want your home to survive.

Thus, any chink in the armor it can throw, plan on getting it.
Any attempt to derail, plan on getting thrown off-course.
Any attempt to distract and detour, plan for the unexpected to occur, from both left and right-field.

Who leadership surrounds themselves with, then becomes a critical matter. For those who truly your have your backs will be the ones who will speak life in a moment of solace. The conversation may hard to swallow and difficult to hear, but it takes a special kind of person to discuss the truth with others when dangerous territory is on the horizon.  It doesn't matter of it's at an organization level, a ministry group or the home-front, those in charge need people will help them do well and even do better because of the wisdom and love they bring to the table through the power of relationship.

So, will you join me this day? Pray for leadership that finds itself in difficult places. May God grant them wisdom and discernment in the challenges that they face. Pray for friends, who will have an awareness and speak life and perspective into matters and areas of concern. May the words fall on hearts that will receive, even thought it be hard to hear. Pray for revelation and insight as they proceed, that God would go before them and prepare the way; for greater impact for the cause of Christ.

Thank you my friends
As we do our part to glorify God
And impact our world for Christ.

- PNC

A power couple in ministry, friends of ours were the keynotes at a marriage conference down South this weekend. Their testimony is incredible, both what God has accomplished in the lives as individuals and as a couple. And thanks to the power of social media, she kept posting gold nuggets online, from her husband's teaching to the marriages that were in attendance.

When she posted the following statement, I knew it was perfect for today.

"Churches will have no effective ministry unless they have healthy marriages and families."

Though it sounds a little harsh, it's also profoundly true. Really? No. Effective. Ministry?

It is a cycle? Effective ministry should be producing more healthy people and homes, definitely. Yet, at the same time, if you have unhealthy people leading ministry, who themselves are not growing and maturing spiritually, emotionally and in their relationships, then one has to wonder what are they building?

I understand, families are work. So is marriage. And church is a given. Life is work. Work is challenging. Plus, everyone is in a difference place, fighting different battles, facing challenging struggles... life is exhausting at times. Being civil can be hard enough; let alone reflecting the character of Christ regardless of whether it's at home or church.

I'm reminded once again of the words of Jeff Foxworthy.

"I need church, because by the time we get there, I've done yelled at everybody in the car on the way there."

And perhaps before you even get out the door to the car! When we all come together, it all plays in our ability to live and lead effective ministry. Thankfully, there's the grace of God, but that doesn't mean we all couldn't stand to do better.

So, pray with me, this #effectiveSunday for marriages and families. Pray our interactions with each other, as we start at home, would greater reflect the love of Christ and the grace of God. May our homes be filled with understanding and forgiveness, even in times of discipline and correction. Pray the ministry efforts of the church would not be hindered by the faults and flaws of our humanity, but that sovereign hand of God would go before us and transcend our difficulties and challenges to accomplish the miraculous in the lives of others. May today be a day of change, for marriages struggling; for homes in trouble, for kids in distress... pray God would interceded and move on the hearts and lives to come into greater relationship with Him, being transformed and renewed in the image of Christ.

Let it start me God,
As much as it pains me to admit it.
For your glory we pray.

- PNC

I caught part of a sermon yesterday, not to mention a pretty incredible interview before that, that happens to be a great extension to yesterday's post on timing and how things play out.

So, the story goes that a king and his best friend went out hunting. Now the best friend is ever the optimist. A glass-half full guy, yet to be convinced to the contrary. Somehow he fails to load the gun properly, and sadly, when the king fires at whatever game they were hunting, a mishap occurs and the king loses the top of his thumb.

Our optimist best friend responds as he always does... "this is good."

"Good? How is this good? Half my thumb is missing?"

"I don't know", the friend replies, "but it is."

Surely, there must be a consequence, despite being an accident, so the king puts his friend in prison for a 1-year sentence. The following year, before the friend's time is up, the king goes hunting again... this time, in an unfamiliar region. It turns out, the region was inhabited by cannibals.

As they were prepping the king for dinner, is about the time they noticed the missing half of his thumb.

(this is still good, right?)

As the king's fortune would have it, the cannibals had a superstition; the end result being, their victims had to be whole. The king not meeting this requirement, the cannibals let him go. Realizing the gun incident from the previous year just redeemed his life, he heads for the prison. Naturally, he releases his friend, shares this incredible story and offers his apologies.

Upon hearing this great news, the ever-optimist friend answers, "No worries. It was good you put me in prison!"

"Now, I know you're crazy, my friend. How is it good that I put you in prison?"

*Herein lies the wisdom of our optimist.

"For had you not put me in prison, I would have been with you. Hunting in an unfamiliar region of cannibals. And I have my two, whole thumbs."

We don't always know how things end.
We don't always know how things play out.

Yet no matter the difficulty and challenges we face, the divine hand of God is at work.

Sorry... I took a thought break for two minutes, scrolled briefly through Facebook and Elevation Church is playing a sermon video clip. Reading the captioning, the pastor speaks...

"We always think God's presences is about fixing our problems.
But what if God's presence is about fixing your perspective?"

Well, that couldn't tie in to this post any better, could it? I think not.

As we pray for missionaries on this #missionsFriday, pray that God would open hearts and minds anew to the power of perspective, perseverance and persistence. May discouragement and frustration not be the elements that cause them to miss opportunities for the miraculous. Though the stress levels are high and the unknown, anxiety-inducing, pray the peace of God would surpasses not only all understanding, but all confusion. Pray God would strengthen their resolve to continue in the work and ministry which they have been called; to trust the hand of God even when He may not be traceable.

Confident in God's plan
Trusting of His character
Obedient to His voice.
For all that God has made,
He has called Good.
For His glory
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I heard a portions of a few different sermons yesterdays, one or two of them, I think almost in their entirety. And while I thought two of them I could tie together for today's post, wouldn't you know it, the second part that I thought was good, I can't remember. Does that qualify as writer's block? Either way, it's gonna drive me nuts for a while, but hopefully not for too long.

So, the portion of the one sermon I wanted to utilize mentioned the story of the prodigal son. Of course, the parable describes how God our Father welcomes the return of one who has walked away from a relationship with Him. Sadly, it also describes the brother's reaction, which if you think it about, represents the body of Christ... those who have never back-slid or left the church, if you will. But what about the other positive influences in the son's life?

Have you figured out where this is leading?

Pastors never enjoy hearing about someone in the church "going astray". Leaving the church, leaving the faith, abandoning their relationship with God and anything having to do with the church... put your own descriptive on the event. But I can't fathom how difficult it must be for pastors whose ministry emphasis is children and teens.

Even now, I'm pondering the reaction of my own youth pastor from 20+ years ago, if he had heard that was far, far away from God. Sure, it's a heart-breaking scenario, but truly, how does it hit them? It's hard to deny the real possibility of the raw questions that would keep them awake.

Did they miss something?
Did they not spend enough time with them?
Were there not enough conversations?
Did the conversations they had not get through?
Did they not help establish a proper foundation of faith?
Was there more they could have done to help the parents?
Were the lessons and sermons not relevant or applicable?
Perhaps I didn't make as much of a difference as I thought?

It's hard to say, really. I'd love to tell you that for every pastor the answer to such questions and more that they might face upon hearing of a prodigal from their ministry, would be no... that they couldn't answer confidently, I did everything I could, to the best of my ability with every person under my ministry. Yet, realistically, the possibility that perhaps more could have been done and said must be considered. And of course, that's something that only the pastor can work out in their own relationship with God and the help of the Holy Spirit.

Regardless, such are the circumstances that contribute one more stepping stone on the path to burnout. So on that note...

Let us pray this #youthPastorWednesday, for those struggling (with however often it happens and they hear about it) with the ministry as it relates to prodigals. May they be strengthened and encouraged that they labor not in vain, even as life happens and people turn away from God rather than drawing closer. May such instances not create an opening for the enemy to create doubt, fear and instill a spirit of frustration that would stand in the way of the impact of their current ministry. Pray that if there is an element in their ministry that could use improvement (as we almost always have something in our life for which is the case) that God would grant them that insight and wisdom as to go about making the necessary changes. Pray God would strengthen their resolve to help raise up strong believers to will hold tightly to the hand of God no matter what life and the enemy of their souls would come against them.

For greater is He who is in us,
Than he that is in the world.
For we are His.
Bought with a price.
Ordained for good works,
Before the foundation of the world.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I know that what I'm about to share doesn't exist at every church, and perhaps, because of community dynamics and make-up it's not possible, but I still think it's something to pray for and a necessary component within the church to pray regarding.

For myself, we are part of what Pastor likes to call a cross-generational church. This is reflected in two ways, primarily (at least from my vantage point). The first in congregational. There's a very healthy number of "seasoned saints", long-time believers who have been active in the church for many years. We've been been blessed to have a growing kids ministry and youth group for the past number  of years. And there is a healthy mix of everyone in between, young marrieds, families of all sizes and ages. Meanwhile, our current pastoral staff sits at a 60/40 split. 60% nearly fresh out of college, the other 40%, long seasons of ministry, but with young families.

What it creates from a staff standpoint, are what I can only imagine are incredible times of mentoring throughout the week, behind the scenes. New approaches to ministry as the younger pastors bring a relational understanding of the upcoming generation of the church in collaboration with pastors who have long-standing time and experience in ministry and church leadership; who are bring not only a "what works and what doesn't" element, but instilling a functional foundation of principles that will help build strong and more effective churches.

As we've prayed for associates before, knowing where to go, what ministries to be lead and oversee and interacting with church leadership can be difficult. Certainly, each ministry brings it's own set of challenges to the picture, combined with life experience and life as it continues outside the four walls of the church. Thus, while this is a cool dynamic to have and to watch, I realized it takes a balanced approach and healthy people. You understand by health, I'm talking spiritually, emotionally and psychologically. For pastors who aren't strong spiritually, healthy in the emotions or thinking that is out-of-line, this dynamic not only won't work, but can and will cause major problems. Which, I think we can all agree, the church needs less of, rather than more.

Thus, let us pray once again, for #associatePastorTuesday. Pray pastoral teams where relations are perhaps tense and strained, behind the scenes. While it may not be know to the congregation, may God work the miraculous where ministry and leadership are not functioning as they should. Pray for wisdom and understanding during this time, that healing and resolution will enter these situations. Pray for increased opportunities for mentorship, between established pastors and those that are just stepping on to the scene. May there truly exist a collaboration effect as they come together, to apply lessons, experiences and understanding to bring a stronger, more effective ministry to the communities and culture they serve.

That nothing would stand in the way
Of the advancement of the cause of Christ.
God help us to step out of the way,
As you work through those who step up to serve
As they have been called according to your purpose
For the kingdom and glory of God.

- PNC

HE. IS. RISEN!

What a great day, another year of remembrance of what Christ did 2000 years ago. It still boggles the mind; sovereignty of God who knew it advance that by giving man free will, He was giving opportunity to His own rejection. Yet, God understood then, what man understands through maturity. Relationships are a choice.

Thus, in understanding the evil that exists in the world and in the hearts of man, how can one acknowledge our broken condition yet deny that we need a Savior?

For as the lyrics go...

"If it's up to anyone of us, we'll never get out of here."

We like to think it depends on us.
We like to believe we can do it on our own.
Weakness is for other people.
Yet our own strength will fail us.

The only way for renew is, in fact, to call upon the name of the Lord.

For even though soldier standing at the foot of the cross acknowledged the truth... a nearly instant revelation immediately following the last breath of Christ.

Indeed, this was the Son of God.

In that moment, he knew his sin.
He knew he needed a Messiah.

And yet, Peter had not preached the solution. Repentance.

For there is One Savior. One Truth. One Way. One confession.

On this Easter 2017, aka #effectiveSunday, may many more experience the revelation of the Roman soldier. Pray today would be a revelation day for the saving of many souls; for indeed we do need a Messiah. May today be a celebration in Heaven and Earth, of our Risen Lord and what He accomplished for all humanity through His death and Resurrection. May we made anew and alive in Him, as we confess with your mouths and believe in our hearts, that Jesus Christ is Lord. Pray today would be a declaration heard around the world; that this season would not be another holiday turned for the commercial benefit of economy but the confessional transformation for eternity.

We need a Messiah.
And one was given to us.
Through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Who takes away the sins of the World.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

It's the Saturday between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. As you've traveled the roads and heard the radio, today is all about egg hunting. Like the kids need more candy. Does anybody still have leftovers from their Halloween stash? 10,000 eggs at our church's event today!! 

Obviously, we all know it's not about searching for eggs, but today is an incredible opportunity to converse with those still searching for Christ... whether they know it's Christ that they need or they have a sense that a spiritual component is missing from giving life meaning purpose.

We are all on a journey, in understanding the brokenness of the human condition in light of Jesus Christ. Some of us with burdens we can not fathom carrying through this life. But when one understands the burden Christ carried...

For the past few days, I've been listening Joe Satriani's latest album, Unstoppable Momentum. If you aren't familiar with the brilliance of Joe's mad guitar skills, you are yourself a few moments on YouTube. The second to last song on the album, is titled The Weight Of The World.

As I had my stereo cranked up yesterday, I couldn't help but wonder in amazement. We carry physical loads with our bodies. We carry heavy loads with trucks and trailers. The weight of the world is astounding, before everything that man creates and builds. Life and all of it's stuff gets heavy. The physical, the emotional, the spiritual.

God holds the world in His hands.
And Christ carried the sins of the world to the Cross.

Is there a more appropriate weekend, to engage community and share the truth and power of the Gospel, that whatever burden and weight we carry, whether within our ability to manage or under a load meant for our destruction and detriment, we can bring it all to the cross of Christ, in exchange for the life made available to us through his death and resurrection.

So, pray, this #communitySaturday, that among all the fanfare, laughter and joy that will be experienced by kids and adults alike, may it pail in comparison to the revelation of the truth of Christ's life and the purpose for His time on this earth. May the great exchange occur; our sin for His saving grace. Pray the burdens of many would be cast at His feet; that through Christ many would rise again as He did. May today be a day of transformation, as the opportunity is presented for the community to come and hear eternal truth, through the whimsical fun that is a search for eggs.

For the searching of Christ is greater
The reward ever-lasting.
For He came that we might have life abundant
Through the carrying of the sinful, weight of the world.
What a wondrous gift He gave and made available to us
To those that would believe and call on His name.

- PNC

There are so many potential directions to take, when #missionsFriday coincides with Good Friday. Which come to think of it, is always going to be the case, I suppose. So a number of thoughts were in prayerful consideration today, until in between playing a couple of amazing albums, I caught the majority of a sermon on the death and resurrection of Christ.

The details of his trial and what followed is just... almost to much to hear. Especially if you have a weak stomach! 39 blows to the body, with a leather whip covered in pieces of metal and sharp rocks. It's not surprising Christ needed help carrying His cross. What is amazing, was that He had the strength to carry it at all. The beating and torture with the whip was so severe, most people didn't even survive that! Less work for the soldiers, as it voided the need for a crucifixion. By the time one was on the cross, breathing was near impossible. If you weren't near death almost immediately, then you were an exception. And yet, to speed up the process, they pierce His side.

How Christ and the thieves were able to exchange words, is amazing. Add to that, Christ finds the strength to speak; more like yell, the committing of His spirit unto God.

Then the aftermath; never seen before nor since, when a person has died. Three hours of darkness. An earthquake. Surely, all creation mourned and grieved the loss of the Son of God. Yet, God recognizing the plan is complete, splits the temple veil.

The pastor describes that chaotic scene. As people come for Passover preparations, the temple is in disarray. The Holy of Holies is accessible to the public; for the first time ever! And as part of the preparation was the acknowledgement that there was only one king, in God. Yet, during the trial, the religious leaders brought political pressure by saying there was only one king in Caesar. They accused Christ of blasphemy for stating His identity, while they were at fault for declaring competing kingships. What a mess!

In his sermon, the pastor stated something incredibly profound.

In the exchange between Pilate and Christ, Pilot thought he was total control, yet had none. Christ appeared to have no control of the situation, yet had it all under His control.

Clearly... society needed a Messiah then.
All the more, we need a Messiah today.

I said this many, many posts ago... perhaps on a prior Good Friday.

The automaker Porsche, may lay claim to the slogan "there is no substitute", but when it comes to eternity, there is indeed, one and only one substitute.

The reason 3,000 were added to the church on the day of Pentecost was largely in part to the realization and understanding once Christ was dead, that indeed He was everything He said He was. The guilt of what they had done was real and fresh in their minds. They were ready to know and to hear, what, if anything could be done to redeem themselves.

Thus, when Peter laid out the simplicity of the Gospel; hearts were ready to receive. Even if it seemed all too easy, if it's what was needed, they were ready to hear it and act upon it.

The goodness of this Friday is only because of the benefit of hindsight. For those who lived this day and played a part in it, even if they did nothing; this was a horrendous day to be alive.

But a God-ordained, amazingly-sovereign day to die. For the redemption of the world and the saving of many souls.

On this #misssionsFriday, thanks for taking the time to read this extended post. Once again, I believe through the power of the Holy Spirit, it almost wrote itself and believe what's here is what God desired to be stated. So pray, this would be a day of revelation and understanding, for those who took a part in the uprising against Christ... they represent the world we live in today. A culture wanting nothing to do with Christ. May eyes be opened to the truth and purpose of Christ and the cross. Pray this would be a day that many would say as the soldier did; truly He is the Son of God. May this Easter weekend, be a time of spiritual awaking and resurrection, for the saving of many souls, both in local churches and global missions. For all the events and activities, may opportunities abound for the conversation to take place... that each of our sins tortured Christ; but Christ would rather take our place than watch us die in our sins.

That He took our beating;
Then carried our sin.
Yet found the strength to speak life
While on the verge of death.
All for the love of God.
Literally. Eternally.
Friday is Good; for in one death; all may live.
Abundant and Eternal.

- PNC

Late yesterday afternoon, as we were returning home from the birthday party for the 2-yr old daughter of our friends', we were jamming to the White Heart mix tape that was stashed in my car's center console.

People talk about reliving the good 'ol days... that's half the fun of driving old vehicles, that still have cassette decks! (Don't worry, it's not that old... I have an in-dash CD changer too)

One of the albums, is Emergency Broadcast, an incredibly powerful album. And the words to the song, Fashion Fades, got me thinking about this #effectiveSunday post.

Fashion fades // Things will change.
But something stronger // will remain.

The love of Jesus // stays the same
So where will you be // when the fashion fades

Jesus ministry, this Palm Sunday, was revolutionary. Not in a typical uproar and revolt kind of way, but that it messed up everybody's status quo. It was life-changing. Life-transforming. The effectiveness of His message for those who received and continue to receive it can't be denied.

Granted, that doesn't stop people from attempting to dismiss, discount and straight-up write it off, but when confronted with the truth, there truly are two responses.

* Accept.
* Deny.

Just as much as Jesus' ministry impacted the community and many didn't understand, couldn't comprehend and struggle with the events and decisions that transpired, so to, do we live in a day when community find itself in a similar dilemma... both inside and outside the four walls of the church.

Thankfully, Jesus promised that no matter the changes that occur in our lives; that the Spirit of God works and directs in our lives, that He would never leave us, nor forsake us. We are reminded that no matter what trials and difficulties we endure, He sticks closer to us than a brother (which if you have a cool brother like I do, is pretty darn close).

Thanks for joining me in prayer, this #effectiveSunday. Though life doesn't go as we hope and doesn't look like we want; may we rely on Christ as we walk this life. Though the process and methods of how life transpires and how work is done, may the message of Jesus Christ continue to transform lives and impact communities for eternity. May we ever be reminded, daily, that no matter how hard the difficulties and challenges we face, that Christ remains closer than a brother, with the comfort of the Holy Spirit.

Effective for the work of the ministry
Because of the truth that is the life of Christ.
Though life is full of changes
We stand in constant that is Christ.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I think, perhaps, I caught the same another sermon yesterday from the same parish that I happened to catch on Thursday that was preaching on evangelism. He was preaching on the church and the disconnect between one who hates his brother and the kingdom of God. (And of course, now I can't remember the verse he was preaching from).

However, he expounded on how people within the church treat each other. As I continued to reflect on this yesterday and this morning, I was thinking about the interchange between our being the light of the world and the church's treatment of other believers.

Indeed, it can be a difficult balance at times, but then again, it probably shouldn't be that way. I understand life happens. We all have struggles and difficult places and for sure, there are personality differences and things we don't understand about those around us.

Just ask about the relationship between a parent and child or management and staff.

We often talk about how people behave one way in church, as if they have their act together and then display anything other than Christianity for the remainder of the week. Sadly, though I don't know how often this happens, something on the opposite side can take place too. We can display niceties, compassion and love to those around us, but then dismiss fellow believers through our attitudes and conversations.  Thus, it raises another flag of inconsistency to the world.

Why would I want to be part of a church that doesn't display Christ to the world except Sunday?
Why would I want to be part of a church that doesn't display Christ to each other except Sunday?

We learn from family. How the family operates is how one operates when they enter the world. So if the basic element is unhealthy or dysfunctional, so will the larger environment when that element enters the picture.

The examples are too numerous to miss this truth.
You can't love your neighbor while hating your brother. Whether a relative by human blood or related by the blood of Jesus Christ, we need to be the light to everyone in the room.

Pray, this #communitySaturday, may we reflect Christ to a world that needs to know Him, to a world who needs to become more like Him. In times of confusion and conflict, may the people of God be a voice of reason and clarity; that God would help us to live as people of righteous and truth. Not that we are perfect or have it all together, but that we are daily being transformed into the image of Christ as God works in our hearts and lives. May we do better to love our brothers and sisters in Christ; that we may edify and encourage the church as they endure their struggles and battles. May we do better to be a light to those in our lives living in darkness; who've yet to hear the illuminating power of what Jesus Christ accomplished that eternal life may be available to all who hear it. May our lives speak it; before a word is spoken.

A light to the world.
Both inside the four walls of the church
And outside to those who've never been a part of the family of God.
Healthy and functional;
Giving to others what we have experienced for ourselves.
For the glory of God.
And the advancement of the Gospel of Christ.

- PNC