Knowing - Philippians 3

I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Phillipians 3:8

Do we really want to know Christ? I suppose we have a passing knowledge of him….I mean, we were saved by Him. We are doing a bible study….reading his word, seeking his face, but how badly do we want to know him?
The apostle Paul here, already saved….considered everything loss compared to the greatness of KNOWING Christ. Paul is not talking about knowing in the past tense for salvation….he is talking in the present and future….riches, knowledge, fame, notoriety, image….all these things pale in comparison to knowing Christ intimately.
Charles Spurgeon wrote a sermon asking us to consider being rightly accused and convicted and sentenced to die. Our death was to be placed in a pit with lion. As the gate is drawn up and the lion steps out…someone from the crowd of onlookers jumps the rail and slays the beast.
We are then rushed off to a palace where all our needs are met, and we are clothed in the finest clothes, eat the most delicious meals and sleep in the most comfortable bed. But when we ask who our savior and benefactor is….we are told it’s the same person from the lions pit. Daily we receive love notes and tokens of love from this benefactor yet when we ask who this person is….it is met with resistance. We are told that while we are experiencing lavish love from this person….and know some of what he is doing, there is 10 times as many things he is doing on our behalf greater than what we know yet they go unnoticed by us.
Do you think our desire to know this person would increase or decrease?
In my opinion, I would lay awake at night in turmoil wanting to know who this guy was. Not knowing him would haunt me….it would burn in my gut….why then am I so okay, with my limited knowledge of Jesus?
You know when someone asks you, “ hey, do you know ______?” and you know him by name, or reputation, or you may have heard of him through a friend. And you reply…..”Yes, I know him”…but you really don’t. I feel a lot of people know Jesus this way.
Spurgeon went on to say;
Do not be satisfied with thinking you know him; hoping you know him, but know him.

First Cousins - Philippians 2

Your attitude shouldbe the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did notconsider equality with God something to be grasped… Philippians 2:5-6
So as Jen taught onSunday…about meekness and how that is like a bridled horse….broken to ride orwork, but his spirit remains intact. Meaning he still possesses all the power, yet it is reserved forappropriate times.
Humility is Meeks firstcousin. And as Paul encourages the Philippians to be humble….he holds Christ upas an example. What I find very humbling about this whole chapter is the verseI’ve pulled out…
If Christ, who was God,had the nature and the mind of God….didn’t think equality with God was even tobe grasped….why do I?
Let me rephrase…Jesuswas God….but he didn’t even toy with ‘idea’ of understanding equality with God.How in the world then….can we…the creation put our agendas before God’s?
Questions I asked mymyself this a.m.;
Do I believe in God? DoI believe his word is true?
Have I accepted the giftof salvation?
Am I a follower ofChrist?
Yes to all ofthese….so then;
How in the world can Iput myself, my job, my agenda, my money, my pride, my time, my family, my friends, myproblems, my worries…before him?
When we do…we not onlyconsider ourselves equal…but we consider ourselves greater than God. Don't we? I'm Guilty!
But let me say this, thetimes that I am obedient, and I have given Christ my ALL….money, friends, time,problems, worries, family….agenda….He has been faithful to care for me, toshepherd me.
I know it seems like ahuge thing to say okay….here it is God, ALL of it….but today…..trust him in anarea of life you have never trusted him. Possibly your relationship with your wife or a friend, maybe an addiction, maybeyour language, maybe your kids, maybe your obedience with money.
I have to quit trying tomeet God on my terms….he gets this, he knows how I am, knows my nature and he lovesme anyway…..but he wants us to seek Him first, seek his kingdom first….and allthe other things of life….will fall in line. They may not fall in line the waywe had planned, but if we are in line with God…..the way he causes things… willbe perfect.

Gain - Philippians 1

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will meanfruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am tornbetween the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. - Phillipians 1:12-24

This passage fliesdirectly in the face of ‘Prosperity Gospel’, consumerism, and ‘he who dies with the most toyswins’. I know we’d all like an easier life, moremoney than we know what to do with, stuff….but these are all distractions toPaul. As a matter of fact, he seems to relish this time in prison in thispassage. Now I know he’d probably rather be out, but he sees the good in theprison guards, those who are probably speaking bolder with him in prison….eventhose who are preaching the gospel out of spite or for the wrong reasons….inPaul’s mind, are still preaching the Gospel.
Make no mistake aboutthis….God's work is advanced by difficulties and discouragements, rather thanby ease and prosperity. In Paul’sperspective, Advancing the Kingdom was priority ONE…..the rest, secondary. To live is Christ …….literally means‘serving Christ’ and to die is gain. Either way, Paul is giving up this carnallife. Can we honestly say this?
Because of theProsperity Gospel preached by so many people….people actually quote (one of themost quoted) this verse….which is NO WHERE in the bible; God helps those whohelp themselves.
I love Matt Chandler…andI want you to know about this awesome pastor up in Dallas…… several months agoaround Thanksgiving he was diagnosed with cancer…and I have seen him fight thisthing via video blog and it has been such an encouragement to me. Not because he will or has beatencancer, but in the way he fights.
Here is the first videohe did….its only a few minutes….but I guarantee you’ll wanna watch the rest ofthem after seeing this.
One of the mostmemorable things he says in this video is that “God considered me worthy tosuffer”.
Seriously? Watch it and see. For Matt, to live isChrist, to die is gain. What about me?
VIDEO

Suicide Mission - Ephesians 6

Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 4:11-12

I noticed today that the Armor of God has no protection for the back. Much like regular armor or chain mail…the back is left unprotected because warriors are not to retreat or go into a defensive posture (i.e I’m not even gonna go there). Fighting an opponent in armor only made sense in close quarters, hand to hand combat. As a follwer of Christ, it is assumed that there will be close-in fighting. One might even wonder, if I’m not feeling or sensing any spiritual attacks….am I in the fight? Am I in the game?

Another mention of our enemy is;
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8

Be alert….It is mentioned in the Ephesians passage as well as the 1 Peter passage. We have a formidable opponent in the devil and he is seeking opportunities to find us without our FULL armor. We could have the buckle of truth but no gospel of peace …..or the helmet of salvation with no sword of the spirit….and be sitting ducks. I recommend we reread this passage and know our own deficiencies, because Satan already does.

Gentlemen….you are handling the sword of the spirit this morning, the bible.
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 You are prepping for battle….but the sword is of little use without the other pieces of armor, unless you are on a suicide mission.

Building the Church - Ephesians 4

….speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. Ephesians 4:15-16
Here is where we are as a church, a body of believers and sojourners. Paul is basically talking about building the church…and not ONE time does he mention the building, the worship style or programming. As ANC continues to press forward, we are discipling so that every part of the body builds itself in love and each part does it’s work.
Let me let you guys in on a little church lingo. There is an 80-20 rule….and what that is…In church world it is normal for 20% of the people do 80% of the work, so much so that if you ask any church staff person at any church, they know about this rule. But what is amazing is that ‘The Rule’ doesn’t seem to apply to ANC. There are still some exceptions….but as a rule MOST everyone is involved at some level in the work God has called us to. And another interesting phenomenon, most people that aren’t involved in the work we have been called to….don’t stick around long.
Brandon and I were at a symposium yesterday with one of the leading church Missiologist (a guy who studies trends and movements in the church) in the nation. And we at a round table discussing our churches, and Brandon said something that I first thought was funny, then I realized it was funny because it was true….he said something to the effect of…… if you looked at our church from the outside…..we look as if we are working our church to death. All we are doing is releasing the body to do what it is suppose to do…we’ve empowered our people to love outside our walls, shown them how and given them margin to do so.
I am very proud of the level of commitment of ANC Partners and the life change going on with our little church. We got a letter this week;
The people at Austin New Church are amazing. Words can not describe the impact you have had on me this month, my first month here. We all have stories, trials and tribulations. I moved to Austin with just a thousand dollar vehicle and cloths, more than what some have. I continue to work hard and struggle. How ever I am blessed that I wake up everyday and have the opportunity to work and at least have money for food and rent. I lost a house, my car, fiancée and a child just under a year ago. My life was pretty much taken away. I have started from scratch. Coming to you guys have realized I have a lot more than I think. Also that even though I barely make it on a weekly basis I can still do more. I do not have money to donate, nor tons of time during the week, However on weekends I do. I would love to learn more about the bible, I would also love to help in the projects and things you do around this beautiful city I call home now. I am not asking for anything from this to come my way, I know other people might need the help more than me and that is what I want to do. So if we could talk sometime and you can let me know what more I could do I would be great full for that. Thank you with all my heart, and God bless!!!
Fellas, this guy is not a believer….yet. but what we do resonates so much with him…is that has been here ONE MONTH and he DESIRES what we have…and that’s God. He wants to serve to the least, he wants to know God and he expresses that the only way he knows how.
Thank you guys for pressing into the work. I sat way too many years on the sideline…and it’s way more funner being in the game.

Building the Church - Ephesians 4

….speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. Ephesians 4:15-16
Here is where we are as a church, a body of believers and sojourners. Paul is basically talking about building the church…and not ONE time does he mention the building, the worship style or programming. As ANC continues to press forward, we are discipling so that every part of the body builds itself in love and each part does it’s work.
Let me let you guys in on a little church lingo. There is an 80-20 rule….and what that is…In church world it is normal for 20% of the people do 80% of the work, so much so that if you ask any church staff person at any church, they know about this rule. But what is amazing is that ‘The Rule’ doesn’t seem to apply to ANC. There are still some exceptions….but as a rule MOST everyone is involved at some level in the work God has called us to. And another interesting phenomenon, most people that aren’t involved in the work we have been called to….don’t stick around long.
Brandon and I were at a symposium yesterday with one of the leading church Missiologist (a guy who studies trends and movements in the church) in the nation. And we at a round table discussing our churches, and Brandon said something that I first thought was funny, then I realized it was funny because it was true….he said something to the effect of…… if you looked at our church from the outside…..we look as if we are working our church to death. All we are doing is releasing the body to do what it is suppose to do…we’ve empowered our people to love outside our walls, shown them how and given them margin to do so.
I am very proud of the level of commitment of ANC Partners and the life change going on with our little church. We got a letter this week;
The people at Austin New Church are amazing. Words can not describe the impact you have had on me this month, my first month here. We all have stories, trials and tribulations. I moved to Austin with just a thousand dollar vehicle and cloths, more than what some have. I continue to work hard and struggle. How ever I am blessed that I wake up everyday and have the opportunity to work and at least have money for food and rent. I lost a house, my car, fiancée and a child just under a year ago. My life was pretty much taken away. I have started from scratch. Coming to you guys have realized I have a lot more than I think. Also that even though I barely make it on a weekly basis I can still do more. I do not have money to donate, nor tons of time during the week, However on weekends I do. I would love to learn more about the bible, I would also love to help in the projects and things you do around this beautiful city I call home now. I am not asking for anything from this to come my way, I know other people might need the help more than me and that is what I want to do. So if we could talk sometime and you can let me know what more I could do I would be great full for that. Thank you with all my heart, and God bless!!!
Fellas, this guy is not a believer….yet. but what we do resonates so much with him…is that has been here ONE MONTH and he DESIRES what we have…and that’s God. He wants to serve to the least, he wants to know God and he expresses that the only way he knows how.
Thank you guys for pressing into the work. I sat way too many years on the sideline…and it’s way more funner being in the game.

Mystery - Ephesians 3

This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus. – Ephesians 3:6

The mystery here is reveal through revelation to Paul. It is the fact that Jesus not only came for the Jews…but for the Gentiles as well. This had NEVER been revealed before.

His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ephesians 3:11-12

Two key points in these two verses;
God’s Eternal Purpose – reconciling man back to God….accomplished through Jesus Christ
Through the Church - God’s plan is to use His church (you and me), to make His Eternal Purpose known.

As Followers of Christ, we have a calling just as Paul did to make known the Mystery…which it still is to some, and share the love and hope people have in Jesus.

Lastly, we have titles….Christians, Christ Followers, Believers, Pastor…but don’t you love Paul’s title? The prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles. There’s something just not politically correct about that…..and I love it!

Eyes Wide Open - Ephesians 2

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

Works do not justify, but the justified man works.

This really lets me know it’s about the journey…not only the destination. Growing up in church I don’t know that I was ever taught about the journey. It always seemed about the destination….whether it was my own spiritual maturity (which seemed to be a far off and unattainable goal) or heaven…those two things were so far off it left me uninterested right then.

We were told we should be saved, invite all our friends to church so they could be saved and invite all their friends. I love the fact that God has prepared works for us (opportunities) and that he has prepared us to do them. It doesn’t really matter if we are a seasoned veteran or brand new believer…..he has prepared works for us, at our level…we just need made aware, remain available and open to them.

So be encouraged this morning, enjoy the journey, invite others along the journey with you and keep your eyes open to the opportunities to do good works.

Enter the Elephant in the Room - Ephesians 1

Okay, so here is the concept that divides denominations, churches, factions within churches and one thing that we at ANC have agreed we can differ on, and it not effect the way we do church, the way we do live missionally and the way we love God and others.

Predestination/Foreknowledge/Election – Paul introduces to this concept in this letter….he actually may have hit on it in Galatians….but Ephesians is so laced with it, I think we cant not mention it, especially for those who haven’t though through this concept.

In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will – Ephesians 1:5

The problem a lot of people have with this concept is that they feel God plays Puppetmaster, pulling all the strings and they have no Free Will. While others rest in the fact that God is Sovereign and nothing escapes him, or he knows the beginning from the end. He sees the last days and has set his plan in motion from “in the beginning”.

Where the argument gets sticky is the realization that if God chooses his “elect”, then he also chooses to not elect some too….and that God cannot be that mean, that unfair.

What we have to remember is that God is more just than fair….life is not fair….but God is still just in that.
Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for noble purposes and some for common use? Romans 9:21
The following verse gives great light to the Romans verse.
You turn things upside down, as if the potter were thought to be like the clay! Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, "He did not make me"? Can the pot say of the potter, "He knows nothing"?- Isaiah 29:16
So basically…..we who are made, how can we question how God made us, how he chooses to make some of his pots for noble purposes and some for ignoble…the word is also SHARD (for the trash heap).

It’s been my belief that God somehow allows us freewill within his foreknowledge. A theologian once said….that if I somehow had foreknowledge of where I was I going to die….I just would never go there. God doesn’t operate this way. He is bigger than this. Therefore, I don’t have an issue knowing God knew we would be believers from before he laid the foundation of the earth…but some people do, some Christians do.

Is it fair? I am still struggling to understand why things happen, and we will probably never understand earthquakes in Haiti, Hitler, World Trade Center Bombings and Tsunamis, but know this….in all these horrible events, God was glorified.
Was it fair that Jesus had to step out of heaven, put on skin, walk this earth and be put to death for us?

This is merely the beginning of a discussion that is maybe better suited for the back patio…and I am open to that. I just wanted to recognize this concept without ignoring it. Discuss.

Facades - Galatians 6

Those who want to make a good impression outwardly are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. Galatians 6:12

This makes perfect sense…but I haven’t seen this verse before. As long as people could keep new believers tied to the Old Law, they didn’t have to reconcile the fact that they were themselves dying….from decay on the inside….while creating a façade of piousness. Their insides are rotting from failure after failure under the law…..you know the saying…misery loves company.

I equate this to modern day “legalists”. Folks who are so bogged down in their own extra-biblical beliefs, they want to saddle you with them as well.

Don’t get me wrong here guys…..we need to constantly be modeling Christ….we need to be constantly striving to live more HOLY….and that’s a big word….but we need to constantly be asking God to uncover in us, the sin in our lives and remove those desires from our lives.

Living by the Spirit - Galatians 5

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. – Galatians 5:1

Why hasn’t anyone told Christians this? Why do we continually live in bondage to tradition, rules, performance, (modern-day)Pharisees, and sin?

One of the major shifts in my paradigm of religion in the last few years has to deal with freedom.

Paul says later in the chapter;
So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law. - Galatians 5:16-18

Why do we continue to live under the law then? Is it that we aren’t living in the Spirit, we default to living under the law? Do we even know how to live in the Spirit?

Well, there are fruits….and they are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control….he says against these things there is no law. So, if we find ourselves doing things for these reasons, and with these as our motives….we need not be bound by any law.

Now…..Legalists – by definition are those who are bound to the LETTER of the LAW and not the INTENT. You’ll find these buttholes in churches everywhere. They are modern-day Pharisees. They outwardly live a life of piousness….then beat you up for your lack of it. They memorize scripture constantly but don’t do any of it. They will wear their religiousness on their sleeve and challenge your theology (even your freedom in Christ) and call you “luke-warm”. Maybe they should memorize the following.

Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. - Galatians 5:25-26

Slave to Son to Slave? - Galatians 4

But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba, Father." So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir. - Galatians 4:4-7

Slave to Son to Slave?

I’ve always wondered about the attraction to turn back. It’s modeled perfectly when Moses was leading the Israelites out of Egypt (after the plagues) ….crossed the Red Sea (no small miracle) and provided manna daily for nutrition….The Israelites wanted to turn back, to go back to Pharaoh and become slaves again. I guess it was because, slavery was what they knew, it was their comfort.
You always hear about women who are abused by their husbands, but they won’t leave them. I never have understood this either.

I guess we have a little of this in us as well. After having been saved by grace, and delivered FROM sin, we return to the same SIN….time and again. Or maybe it’s just me.

Rescue for Sinners – Galatians 3

Rescue for Sinners – Galatians 3

For if a law had been given that could impart life, then righteousness would certainly have come by the law. Galatians 3:21

The law can’t give life.

I read….If God have give the law power to activate divine life in man…then the righteous character of God could have been derived out of legal performance of the law.
It goes on to say that….But this is IMPOSSIBLE because God’s life and righteousness can only be derived out of Himself by the dynamic of His Grace.

The law put man under a curse…..Jesus justifies us.
Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse (detested, loathed, a person assigned to damnation) for us….Galatians 3:13

The song Jesus Messiah comes to mind…and that line from it;
“He became sin, who knew no sin…That we might become His Righteousness”.

Last thought that occurred to me….was now Jesus, who sits at the right hand of the Father in heaven is our advocate….the same guy who became sin, became the curse, took all of our ugliness past present and future on Himself at the cross…. He knows us and our failures intimately….yet He loves us…and is speaking to the Father on our behalf.

Jesus Messiah ….the name above all names! Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel. The rescue for sinners, Ransom from Heaven. Amen

Spiritual Snobbery - Galatians 2

….if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!" Galatians 2:21

Great stuff this morning….had many things I thought AHA! I’ll write on that….but the key point in my opinion of the chapter was this last line.

The hypocracy that Paul called Peter out on was that, (keep in mind we are talking about ALL Christians now) Peter was dining and hanging out with Gentile Christians and being buddies with them….until the RELIGIOUS (Jew) Christians came to town. Then he would literally turn his back on his Gentile brothers.

What Peter was doing by his actions was saying that the Gentile brothers were inferior to the Jews because their were certain laws that Jews still observed as customs including circumcision, ceremonial washings etc….and Peter was giving credence to them.

It’s good to know this is still alive and well in the church today isn’t it. HA! At Restore Community this week, one of the ladies was weeping….because she had spent years in the church…and all she felt was guilt and embarrassment for never measuring up….attaining the level of biblical knowledge everyone else in the “Beth Moore Study” had…..and in her case, it didn’t have to overt “piousness”….but there was just a sense of NOT GOOD ENOUGH.....so she never spoke.

Paul is saying….none of us are good enough, we are ONLY justified through the body and blood of Christ. And if we put credence in things WE can do…..Jesus died for nothing.

Who are we pleasing? - Galatians 1

I chose the book of Galatians to start. I wanted to jump right into Paul's letters.

Galatians 1

One thing I noticed about Paul's letter to the Church at Galatia, was that he felt that an "autobiography" of sorts was in order. He greets, rebukes, and then basically gives a testimony as to the authority he writes with.

As we live our lives on mission, the cool part about what we are asking people to do, is love your neighbors as commanded by Christ. In John 13, Jesus says that" people will know we are HIs disciples by our love for one another". But people want to know your life and what you are about before they are willing to honestly be open about "spiritual" things.

Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ. – Galatians 1:10

We can’t expect to speak into someone’s life the moment we meet someone. People want to know your “deed matches your creed”. For what ever reason, people have a distrust of 'religious' things. Whether they have been burned in the past, bored in the past or have little to no faith backgrounds.....people have their reasons, and most of them are pretty good. When people tell me....."and thats why I haven't been back to church"....honestly, I can't blame them. So keep that in mind as we share our lives and our stories. Don't be offended if people aren't as excited about your life as you are.

As you guys probably know, Paul (then Saul) was a persecutor of the earliest Christians. He stood and gave approval as the first Christian martyr (Stephen) was stoned to death. He was a Pharisee...also the son of a Pharisee. These men were the most educated, religious, pious Jews of their day. They also were known to be very "works-centric" and self-centric. So as we will learn about Paul's conversion, Christ changed him from the inside out, starting with his heart and even changed his name. We will see Paul humbly yet full of conviction, rebuke churches, but also refer to himself as a "slave" or a bond servant. He also recognizes God's "call"...and introduce God's "elect" (those called by God).

I am seriously excited for you guys as men, to desire to walk through the bible with me. I would ask that you hold me accountable, read for yourselves, form your own ideas and bring them to the table. Even if this is a totally NEW concept to you….it’s okay.

I use commentaries…..all the time. You can google....Galatians Commentary…and find hundreds of documents from different writers. Also another tool that takes more getting use to....is the translator at Biblios. It breaks verses down by word in the Greek (New Testament) and Hebrew (Old Testament).

Today as you read, if you want to add anything….just reply all…and put it out there. It doesn't have to be ultra deep...it might just be a question, or a realization.

Sorry, today's post was a little nuts and bolts...NOW JUMP IN!

Hearers vs. Listeners

Last night Jenny and I prayed together.

Profound huh? Well....we hadn't prayed together in months. How can this be? You are a pastor and you are suppose to do this. Well, for me this comes hard. Even though I do this every week in front of hundreds of people I love and consider family, this is such an intimate time between me and God, I would rather not share it. Selfish

We thanked God for our friends, the influence he has given us in our neighborhood, among our neighbors. We prayed for all of you...and for them. We thanked Him for entrusting us with the Gospel (the Good News) for those who don't know Him yet...and to make us diligent in sharing it. We prayed for a renewed vigor for His word and we prayed for our kids.

That was pretty much it.

Yesterday Brandon talked about while he was teaching at ANC, the closeness he felt to God when he studied God's word for two years with a handful of guys. I was fortunate enough to be one of those guys and we did.....for two years pour through God's word, devouring it like it was our sustenance.....and I loved it. But we took a break, then other things crept into my life...and I lost that discipline that I loved so much. So this morning, with no plan...I looked into Proverbs 19.

Proverbs 19:27 Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.

How easy was that.....Solomon knew this...and recorded it in Proverbs. Stop listening.....not just reading or hearing but listening to instruction (i.e. God's blueprint, his word to us, his bible) and you will stray from from the words of knowledge. Not because I don't believe them....but because they aren't on my heart and on my mind.

James 1:22 some translations say - We are to be doers of the word, not merely hearers.
I would venture to guess that in order to be DOERS....we can't merely be hearers but LISTENERS too.

I think about my son....I love him to death....but I can tell him something very important to me...and he hears me, but he isn't always listening to me. So he will either not do what I have asked him to do, or he asks me to instruct him on something I've already instructed him on. Maybe this is how God feels about us...when we hear but we don't listen.

God thanks for your word to us. Let us be not only hearers, but doers of it. Make your word come alive to me and let me run to it in the morning instead of Facebook.

You can hear yesterdays sermon here. SERMON

Lord, let me walk like ELI.

I went to see "The Book of Eli" last night. WARNING: if you have not seen the movie...then you may not want to read any more.
This moving starring Denzel Washington was a great movie. I must say that the premise was a post-apocalyptic account of a man who was guided by God to a place where he found the last remaining bible. He unearthed the bible hidden by debris and was told (by God) to take it west. Not knowing any more than that....he headed west....walking. He walked for 30 years, across the United States...not being deterred by anyone or anything that stood in his way. He read God's word EVERY DAY....placing it in his heart.
He was confronted by vandals, vagrants, murderers, a comfortable life, sex, money, water (of which there was little supply).
One of the key lines in the movie when he was talking to the young girl who fled with him....when she asked about the "old times" or pre-apocalypse....he said;

we had way too much, people used to throw away things we now kill each other for

(this may not be an exact quote...but its close)
As he fought off and killed those that would cause him harm, or keep him from what God called him to...he used uncanny skill in battle, and had unnatural ability to avert harm. He did however (eventually) forfeit the braille bible.
It wasn't until he reached the west coast of California...San Fransisco that we find out that he is blind and that he had walked for 30 years, fought and killed the bad guys and was directed only by his FAITH.
He then met up with a man that he completely orated the entire New King James Bible...which he had memorized.
The journey of Eli was so inspiring.....I was convicted that I live too much by sight... and not enough by faith. I was reminded that when faith is all that you have.....it is sufficient.

Well.....I did what I said I would NEVER do

This past Sunday I was given the opportunity to teach at ANC...and after only 2 years, I did it.
I was asked yesterday if there was anything different about studying God's word to preach vs. studying God's word for just me. I really think there is...
Obviously, when studying God's word for personal intake, you want God to speak to you through His word, but if He doesn't, or you are distracted, there is always tomorrow. No immediacy.
When I studied God's word in order to teach it, there was a weight to it that I had NEVER experienced before. There was a sense of expectancy that I had...for God to show me something, then allow me to directly relate it to my life so that I could communicate that.....as me.
This is another thing, when listening to guys sermons online....I have always thought...if I preach, I hope I sound like or can communicate with this guys passion. Well...I don't think I taught like anyone....I think it sounded a lot like me.
All that to say, I have a newfound respect for those that "Handle the Word" weekly, in order to teach. I enjoyed it, but my schedule doesn't have that much time to pull it together.

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Proverbs 1 - True Wisdom

"Organized religion is a sham and a crutch for weak-minded people who need strength in numbers." – Jesse Venture, former Minnesota Governor and professional wrestler.

In his arrogance the wicked man hunts down the weak, who are caught in the schemes he devises. He boasts of the cravings of his heart; he blesses the greedy and reviles the LORD. In his pride the wicked does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God." (Psalms 10:2-4 NIV)

Today Proverbs 1:22 "How long will you simple ones love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge?

This Proverbs is speaking to those who are obstinate in their foolishness masking as wisdom. We know that the foolishness of God is wiser than the wisdom of man

This ties in so well with the posture we like to talk about….and Brandon spoke on last night. I really do think that if we are willing to come to God, whether believer or not…and say, I’m not so sure about this but would you teach me…I think that in His mercy, God will reveal himself. As a Christ Follower, I am constantly reminded of my deficiencies in knowledge of Him…and I love him, and study his word, and strive to know him.

I think of those who know (or kinda know) religion and cast all its negativity on God. Who claim they know Him, when all they know is ritualistic traditions and “the motions” of religion. I pray that as believers, we can invite people to search the depths of God and not just scratch the surface of our churches.

Psalm 98 – Let’s join the praise

Psalm 98 – Let’s join the praise

This morning….I just want to join the seas resounding, the rivers clapping and mountains singing. I know this from Luke 19:40…”if we remain silent, the rocks will cry out!”

What a great reminder of God majesty and dominion over the earth. As we sit Sunday…and hear the music being played…and hear, read or even sing the songs being sung, are we joining the rest of creation in it’s worship of its Creator or are we going through the motions?

Psalm 95 - Reminders

Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Psalm 95 reads;
Hardness of heart is at the bottom of all distrust of the Lord.
I hear people from time to time talk about a Life Verse. One of the one’s people like to use….is Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. (I guess that’s actually two verses.)
What are you suppose to do if you have a hard heart? How can I trust Him in all things if I am unwilling to trust him in the little things? I know I have trusted him in HUGE things before….so is it a sign of a hard heart if I am unwilling to trust in the small?

The Psalmist reminds his people of a previous time in Meribah, where they questioned his provision….and according to Moses, they were testing God. Moses feared for their lives…and went on behalf of them to God. It was at that time that God commanded Moses to strike the rock, and water came out of it.

I understand…the Israelites reaction to running low on water, but their reaction was strictly self-focussed. Would the God who delivered them out of Egypt, or let them walk across the Red Sea on dry ground, not be able to handle a water crisis? Or was it a crisis at all….or just a way for God to make himself known? It’s when we take out eyes off of God that we forget that our provision comes from Him alone.

At ANC we have had so many God-sized provisions….and honestly, they keep coming, day after day, week after week, month after month….they are great constant reminders that God is doing something, this isn’t about us, keep our trust in Him….and do not let our hearts become hardened.

Psalm 94 – Futile

Psalm 94 – Futile
I sometimes wonder why God puts up with us. Why he puts up with the wicked, why he deals with people who curse Him. Why he allows agnostics or atheists to breath the breathe he gives them. He doesn’t have to…but he does it because he loves us, he created us…and knows us.
The LORD knows the thoughts of man; he knows that they are futile.
And we also know that the Lord disciplines those he loves
Blessed is the man you discipline, O LORD, the man you teach from your law
So this is a great reminder for those seasons that we feel like oppressed, like the Psalmist…and we feel that people are getting over on us…that the ‘amoral’ person has the upper hand in life…as we see them screw their way to the top. God places the seasons of discipline in our lives…so that we can grow in character, learn to trust Him more, see His love for us in all things…and ultimately for our good and His glory!

Psalm 93 – Merely Waves

Psalm 93 – Merely Waves

The seas have lifted up, O LORD, the seas have lifted up their voice; the seas have lifted up their pounding waves. Mightier than the thunder of the great waters, mightier than the breakers of the sea— the LORD on high is mighty. Psalm 93:3-4

Im reminded and comforted this morning that God is on His throne. Whatever comes against us, speaks against us, persecutes us..will not prevail.

God’s kingdom is immovable, unchangeable and eternal.

This morning, my heart was thinking about a friend who stepped down from the church he pastored for 9 plus years. How what seems like a huge wave not only to him, his staff and his flock….is merely God moving. I pray for all of them to keep their focus on His Glory. Not to let the one who confuses or lies, keep them (or us) from advancing the Kingdom for His glory. His Kingdom will advance regardless


The Creator will not be taken down or lessened by the creation.

Psalm 92 – Finish Strong

Psalm 92 – Finish Strong

I really don’t consider myself old. I seriously feel and behave like I’m in my 20’s (aside from the naps). But as a 42 year old dude, I am the guy, who 15 years ago…I was wanting to emulate. I think it is so important to be an example, to finish strong…and I pray like the Psalmist here is saying….that my latter years are even more productive than my earlier ones.
Verse 14 states (The Righteous) will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.
Knowing that it’s Christ’s Righteousness that allows us to bear fruit, I pray that I can continue to position myself to pour into other men, to be the guy that encourages guys to put their trust, and plant their roots in the Lord.
I think about Paul….and his analogy of ‘the race’…..and at the end of his life/ministry he was kicking to the finish line. He still had a lot in him….God, keep me fresh and green.

Psalm 91 – Close

Psalm 91 – Close

God’s peace, God’s protection God’s Will.
All the protection that God provides….are for those who dwell in the shelter of the most high. One thing this passage screams to me this morning is STAY CLOSE! We must be close to be ‘in His shadow’ or ‘under his wing’.

And Happy Birthday Mom!

Psalm 90 - Knuckleheads

Psalm 90:12 Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

I love this verse this verse this morning. To me, this verse is saying….give us perspective, Kingdom perspective, so that we aren’t knuckleheads.
I think if we truly gain perspective of the time we have on earth…as compared to eternity, things begin to look a lot different. The temporal things we work so hard for, pale in comparison. The lost brother…while he may be a screw up and be almost unlovable on earth….is condemned to die for sin.
I almost wonder if most of us don’t believe that Hell is a real place, or that separation from God…isn’t such a bad thing, for eternity.
God, I pray in my own life…that you wreck my stupid materialist, consumer, self-focused, temporal, insolent perspectives…and give me fresh new love for people and a heart of wisdom to minister to them. Protect me and my family as we wade through the mess where culture and Kingdom collide.

Psalm 89 - Rogues Waves

You rule over the surging sea; when its waves mount up, you still them. You crushed Rahab like one of the slain Psalm 89:9-10
At first glance I was a little surprised at this analogy….and I had to find out, why Rahab.
In this instance the Psalmist is either talking about a sea creature…or the guardian angel of Egypt. Either way…it represents chaos in the bible.
This morning I think about the headline I just read…Waves Pull 20 People to Sea. Hurricane now Tropical Storm Bill Skirted the eastern coast and is now headed back out to sea….caused huge rogue waves in Maine. Large enough to wash 20 people out to sea, including a 7 year old girl and her parents. The parents survived and the girl did not.
When there is chaos and devastation….it is a grim reminder for those closest to it, that death is real. It escapes no one….
47-48 Remember how fleeting is my life. For what futility you have created all men! What man can live and not see death, or save himself from the power of the grave? Selah
James 4 says that life is but a mist….here today and gone tomorrow.
The Psalmist asks, like we all would in this instance….”where is your great love, which in your faithfulness you swore to David?” And for us….that great love is manifest in Jesus, on the cross….in the grave…..resurrected!

Psalm 80 – Vine

Psalm 80 – Vine
I love the vine reference and how the verses in John were probably based on this scripture.
“If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit”
Apparently the vineyard the Psalmist is talking about, has recently been bearing fruit. However with the state of the church, the fruits were being plucked by anyone who passed by, the wild boars were devouring and all the creatures of the fields were feeding on it.
The language though is a little different.
“look down from heaven and see, watch over the vine”
“your vine is cut down, burned with fire”
Even in these scriptures that have very similar language, I just realized that we have a more personal God. One who is with us, via the Holy Spirit, one who has said, “surely I am with you” and “remain in me”.
But I believe that this Psalmist is calling for the Messiah. For the “son, at your right hand” to be raised up, so that we (the Israelites) may be restored, saved.
God thank you for your mercies…your Word…the written and the living. Give us tons of opportunities to love our neighbors this week.

Psalm 79 – Desperate

Psalm 79 – Desperate

I know the Bible, in it’s entirety, is the inspired word of God. But I think if God could hand pick one verse today….and say…..this…..this verse is why this Psalm was written, it would be;
8 Do not hold against us the sins of the fathers; may your mercy come quickly to meet us, for we are in desperate need.
I know this is where God wants me. Too often we, like the Israelites, rely on ourselves, our actions, our goodness, our checklists, our scales of justice to determines whether or not God should love us. These things produce arrogance, pride and physically push us further from his goodness.
Last night, right before service started…we had about a 7 minute gully washing rain. I am talking it came down hard. Brandon mentioned in the sermon about how many times we pray for rain…then argue about God’s timing.
Well another thing I have been praying about is the temperature in the building. And at 5:45 is was 80 degrees (and climbing) inside the building. The building is basically a hot tin can laying in the sun…and the insulation and a/c do little on the inside against what the elements are doing on the outside. Factor in a cooling rain on the entire structure…and by the time the service started….inside we were down to 78 degrees and by the end of the service 74. This provision of rain outside, did on the inside…what none of our best efforts couldn’t accomplish.
Coolness of a building and having your temple laid to waste don’t even compare….but He is saying to me this morning…..seek me when you have no control, when you are desperate…and before you become that way.

Follow me here

Over the summer, we are reading the TK (Tangible Kingdom) Primer as a church.
Follow this interesting look at Missional "Sent"ness as our church body BLOGs daily.
http://anconline.wordpress.com/

Fencelines

I’ve been told recently, you and Jenny just meet people so easily….we just don’t know where to start, what to say, how to act…..
Well, truth be known….I still get nervous meeting new people, but it does get easier with practice. I don’t want to be too goofy, too serious….just natural….whatever that means. I don’t wanna say the wrong thing, give the wrong impression or get all “spiritual” too early….when they ask what I do. I just want them to get to know me and me them.
This weeks action is to imagine Jesus taking you somewhere….and it might be to a neighbor’s home, who you have lived next door to for years…and now it might be awkward to just start talking to him or her. Well yeah….if you just bust right out with….”hey you are part of this project, and ummmmm…Jesus said…ummmm……”
They might be older…or younger, or different ethnicity, or religion….but you have some commonalities….if you pay attention. Pets, cars, flowers, children/grandchildren, your homes, time of day you water, music, possibly talk about a third neighbor you don’t know…ask what they know about him/her, these are all great things to start talking about. Just have a conversation….and string it together with another conversation, then another. No rush…no agenda, God’s got this.
Great example for this for me personally….is the Sheltons. We had girls on the same basketball team….and boy the same age. Perfect! We weren’t out to “get them to come to church” or “tell them about Jesus”. We just wanted to become friends.
Crazy things about friends is though…..when you are friends, the things that are important to you, become important to them…and visa versa. Seriously, I would have never been to Camp Ben McCollough and pitched washers, watched Texas A&M basketball or football, or met Shane Phillips or Richard Taylor or all the 10 plus guys we play poker with, had it not been for the Sheltons. And they, in turn, became curious about our church, our friends, our Serve Austin Sunday and Restore Communinty.
I think I know the problem for most people….and I’ve heard this…people don’t really want anymore friends. People don’t feel they can emotionally invest in another relationship. I don’t know how to get anyone over this….but to tell you….too bad. God didn’t give us that option.

Tangible Touches

I guess I must write down this “example” only because it is so fresh, so real and hit me between the eyes tonight.
Those in our Restore Community know Bob and Juanna Reilly. They have met and recently taken in a man dying of cancer. They met him through another sweet lady (Mary Beth) in our Restore Community who is a hospice care-giver.
Well when I read about the immersions….I was struck at how this man (not a believer) was immersed in the blessings (or tangible touches of God) through these two families. Not many people would take a man into their home, only knowing him for 3 weeks, let alone a dying man, who by all accounts was difficult and mean. Yet the Reilly’s showed him love when he could offer them nothing. This touch softened this man’s heart.
In God’s sovereignty and his timing this man of 66 years lay dying in the breakfast room…in a make-shift hospital room, as Brandon and I prayed for him in the next room. We had been called to the house, as Juanna ran some errands…to possibly be with him as he died. We prayed for God to allow him to hear us and respond to the Gospel….or to just mercifully end his suffering.
This man, in the next few moments….sat up in bed and began talking….why did this shock us? Then, God moved in this man’s heart, to accept the gift of salvation that is available to all of us…oh my!
Over the last couple of hours….this has grown increasingly incredible to me. Its not always what we say…..it’s how we live and how we give those “tangible touches”.

More

Living 'missionally' or SENT is definitely an aspect of life that is both old and new for me. Having been 'called' to live on mission, before I really knew what that meant....Jenny and I basically served as best we could where God placed us.
You guys have got to know…that we have always been comfortable having people over, live with us, serving in one capacity or another….whether it was with youth, young adults, small groups ministry….but living ‘missionally’
has invaded and stretched us in ways that I didn’t think possible.
Invaded sounds kinda harsh…unwanted…but it was a new world to think that God not only called us to serve people who live like we do, in the same areas of town that we do, and go to the same schools or the same church….but he has called us to serve beyond our own little world…..in His.
When we responded to his call to live ‘missionally’ beyond our realm….we found life and love greater than we had ever experienced. When we trusted that when we “served the least” we WERE serving our Savior himself….we found joy that nourishes our souls.
As we begin this journey through the TK Primer…my prayer is that we can lay down the religious ‘baggage’ we bring in. We might not even realize we are carrying any. But I have heard some form of this conversation….. “I have been serving as hard as I can serve, attending church whenever the doors are open, I am a deacon or church volunteer of the decade….I have done every Beth Moore Precept study there is to do…and deep down I just know…there must be something more.”
Through living on mission….we will find….there is.

Daniel 11 - Time

Some of the wise will stumble, so that they may be refined, purified and made spotless until the time of the end, for it will still come at the appointed time.

A couple of verses came to mind as I read this passage. When I think about prophesies of end times or end of seasons I rest in the fact that none of this catches God off guard. And who better to rely on, put your faith in or trust in…..because none of knows the “appointed time” or the when the “time of the end” will come, except the one who set it all in motion.

Psalm 121:1 I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from?
1 Peter 5:6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.

Christ even tells us in Acts that "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority.
I am really thinking about Mr. Nichols who has been placed in our lives through our connection with Mary Beth Ryan in our Restore Community. He has been overtaken by cancer…and even today….our neighbor Juana Reilly is driving Mr. Nichols to her home. The Riley’s have opened their hearts and their home to a man they never knew prior to a few short weeks ago.

He is not a believer, and has maybe just a few days left…but they are showing Christ’s love to man, who by all accounts has been difficult to deal with and mad. But his heart has softened and he has agreed to come home with the Reilly’s where he will most likely spend his last days.

He weighs 88 pounds and according to Juanna has lost 7 pound in the last week. But in all that….he doesn’t and we don’t know when he will draw his last breath…..but God does.

Let’s pray together that this is Mr. Nichols "appointed time" and that he is touched by the Kingdom and God as it is poured out....by the Reillys, Mary Beth and the rest of the ANC Restore Community. Pray that he will respond as we hope. But whether he does or not… God will glorify himself through this, no doubt.

Daniel 10 - Swagger

Daniel 10 – Swagger
A hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees. He said, "Daniel, you who are highly esteemed, consider carefully the words I am about to speak to you, and stand up, for I have now been sent to you." And when he said this to me, I stood up trembling.
In this vision (apparently his last of the book) Jesus stands before Daniel, and he is so overcome with terror…that he is overwhelmed and can no longer speak, stand or look. Daniel….who stood up to Nebuchadnezzar, thrown in a den of lions…now is terrified before the Lord.
And here we are….sinners…that the only thing that saves us is the Grace of God…and we have some sort of self-righteous swagger.
I am reminded of when I signed on to play football at the University of Alabama….and I showed up for “voluntary workouts” in the summer. I seriously am walking in, in the best shape of my life….with a bunch of “lesser” athletes to a “voluntary” workout, how hard could this be? Right guys?
Day one, they had us report straight to the Track Field…..hey ran us so hard, so long, so many times that I felt that my heart would explode, my lungs would collapse, my legs would literally feel less pain if I would run over them with a car…I can honestly say…that is the day I lost my “swagger”. Day One…..done. Day two, after experiencing to the reality of my fate…..my main thoughts were on survival.
Do we not get it….because we aren’t really experiencing God? I pray that we would continually find ourselves in the position Daniel found himself in…face to the ground.

Daniel 1 – Favor

Daniel 1 – Favor

What a great example of God’s hand working through unbelievers….”God had caused the official to show favor”. No doubt this official (another translation calls him the Prince of Eunuchs) was a follower of the deity of whatever the king worshipped. But Daniel’s disposition and God’s hand allowed him the wiggle room to show Daniel favor.
Even with his own life on the line, he allowed Daniel and the three men, not to ‘defile’ themselves with the royal food. Though not vegetarians these men were not only able to sustain them selves on vegetables and water, but became more healthy looking than any of the others.

8 But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. 9 Now God had caused the official to show favor and sympathy to Daniel, 10 but the official told Daniel, "I am afraid of my lord the king, who has assigned your [c] food and drink. Why should he see you looking worse than the other young men your age? The king would then have my head because of you."
11 Daniel then said to the guard whom the chief official had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, 12 "Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink.
I think of the manner that I sometimes take with someone of opposing views or beliefs and the effect that has on my cause. Could Daniel have been indignant? Could God have still caused the official to relent? Sure…but Daniel, not knowing how or when God would intervene, decided to be gracious until He did. I guess the lesson here is ….. stand firm on your convictions, acts as if your position was fully dependent on your actions….then when God’s favor is placed on the situation, be sure to give him glory.

Psalm 78 – That’s Not Fair

Psalm 78 – That’s Not Fair

38-39 Yet he was merciful; 
he forgave their iniquities and did not destroy them. Time after time he restrained his anger and did not stir up his full wrath. He remembered that they were but flesh, 
a passing breeze that does not return.
To me, the greatest thing about the mighty hand of God….is that he restrains it toward us when we don’t deserve it. He offers love, understanding, mercy…and grace. Romans 5:8 says, But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
This may be a little corny… but when we are being stung by a mosquito….our natural reaction is to swat it, usually leaving a small black smear with some blood in it. We never think about the significance of that small life…..and its short life cycle, because we didn’t create it. You know I think about the ease with which God, in his full wrath, could just swat us out of existence…..yet he doesn’t. He remembers that we are but flesh, his creation, and he loves us.
But like my dad used to say….”I brought you into this world, I can take you out!” God’s mercy isn’t to be taken advantage of, or God isn’t to be though lightly…..his full wrath is still swift and just. In a few weeks at ANC we’ll be reminded of Ananias and Sapphira, and how God took them immediately. Romans 6:23 ….for the wages of sin is death! I just thank God that his mercy is exercised more than what is fair!

Psalm 76 - God's Got Game

Psalm 76 – God’s Got Game
4 You are resplendent with light, more majestic than mountains, rich with game.

Well I actually added that last comma….sorry God, but he does have game….and it’s rich.

I was just amazed yesterday, and I was searching for words to describe God….but realized that any word used, falls short. Not that ‘resplendent with light’ came to mind….but I realized that all these descriptions, are merely words trying to capture the glory of the Creator.
All the Psalms, 150 in all…..with all the words contained, still fall short. Yet we live as though we are serving a finite God. We give Him a Sunday or two every now and then to hold him at bay.
I read yesterday that in recent years, via the Hubble telescope that it is (conservatively) estimated that there are 350,000,000,000 galaxies….conservatively estimated! Why?
Why did our Creator create things that no one in history new about until recently. Maybe he is wanting us NOW to know….even with your fancy computers and telescopes....you cannot fathom the depth of me. You could spend your whole life trying to describe me…and still fall miserably short, not even scratch the surface.
God forgive me for not giving you my all, and forgive me for thinking you are smaller than you are.

Psalm 74 - It’s not about us.

Psalm 74 - It’s not about us.

I just found the tone of this Psalm very self –focussed. Maybe that is just a conviction I am having today. We’ve seen it before with the Israelites, and here the Babylonians have just overrun the Temple, plundered Jerusalem, and left the place in ruins.…and now they turn to God again?

20 Have regard for your covenant, because haunts of violence fill the dark places of the land.

Why is it that we do this….we are cruising along, not a care in the world, because things are going so well….and things turn, and now we remember….oh yeah God, we have a covenant. Have regard for it….even though I may not have.

And why does the Psalmist/we think that we need a reason to uphold a covenant OTHER than there is a covenant? God is continually upholding his end of the deal, the failure, when there is one, is ours.

And why do when bad things come, that we forget….God is in control of it all. That he knows what is going on. The same God that saves us, loves us..and because he loves us, he corrects us. Most of the time it is painful, but all of the time it is just. WE may not see it, but we aren’t God. So we need to quit acting like we are.

Psalm 72 - Cries

Psalm 72:12-13 For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death.
Last night we watched the Lifeway videos that Jen Hatmaker had done for her upcoming book Interrupted, and I was reminded of my own journey and how the poor and oppressed were to me…..a people group, some other people “out there”, nameless faces that I was scared of, that I felt they wanted to harm me somehow.
The guy that did the interviews from Lifeway basically said the exact same thing to Alan Graham, founder and president of Mobile Loaves and Fishes. For someone (like Alan) who already has a heart for the homeless, the oppressed and the marginalized….there wasn’t a worse thing to say to him….His jaw tightened….his teeth were clenched…and as soon as the interviewer paused for an answer, Alan Graham said….”you know, your feelings don’t matter.”
This is who God directs his love and compassions and mercies toward. Jen, later in the interview, talked about meeting God there….in service to marginalized. He is there.
Once we strip away all the things that we have grown up believing about church, what it should be, how we are to behave, what we are suppose to learn and achieve, and take (like consumers)….we are left bare with…. “what have we done for the least”?

Well, I went to all Beth Moore’s precepts classes….yes, but what about the homeless?
I taught Jr. High boys….yes, but what about single moms?
I sang in the choir, yes but what about children who don’t have a daddy?
I gave to Lottie Moon….yes, but what about taking a family who has lost their home into yours.
The verses talk about the cries of the needy….and they are there. The same cries we drowned out with our self serving, life numbing, busyness…. all in the name of Christiandom.
Pastors from other churches and people in other “flocks” are always asking us….how can we do what you guys are doing? Is it even possible? And the short answer is YES, listen for the CRIES!

Psalm 70 – EmUrgency

Psalm 70 – EmUrgency
5 Yet I am poor and needy; come quickly to me, O God. You are my help and my deliverer; 
O LORD, do not delay.
Was David literally poor or needy?
I’m thinking this posture of David is one that we all need to take.
David could have said….Lord I got this world on a string….I am it’s king…what do you have to offer me, or better yet….what can I do for you today if I have time? Though that was never David’s heart….is it ours? We would never say that…. But I wonder if sometimes in our hearts that isn’t exactly what we give or say.
And I love that David seeks God’s urgency. I’ve done this so many times….but my prayers aren’t always answered in the manner or timing that I would have preferred.
As a parent, its one thing to be sitting in the living room watching the TV or talking to our wives….and one of the kids says…mom/dad can I get some help with this homework. We might say….give us a minute, or wait until the commercial. But one of our kids is hurt, or in trouble, or scared…..we drop everything to get there “without delay”.
David seeks God’s urgency….because he is in need.
As a Sovereign God, when we seek God urgently…and he responds to us, in his timing…..I wonder what that says? Maybe he is teaching us to wait on Him, maybe he is telling us He’s got this, maybe He is teaching us patience.

Psalm 67 – Global God

Psalm 67 – Global God
I got an email this morning before reading this passage….from Mari, a dear friend of ours. Mari was in the youth group with Brandon at my old church….she was good friends with Luis (from our church) and was instrumental in the Father’s plan of salvation for him.
Anyway, Mari is now in North Africa….serving with the IMB (International Missions Board) to teach English. But the main purpose for Mari being there…and the reason she signed up for this 3 year commitment, is to reach her region for Chrst.
So this passage this morning with words like nations, people and the ends of the earth….really made my mind and heart turn toward Mari. Then after reading Mike’s post I thought….okay….we are all teaching English is some capacity, but what is our real purpose. What are our barriers?
Mari has to be careful with her communication because she is in a Muslim country that is closed to the Good News. She communicates and talks about “the Father”, “prying for her”, Chrst the “LRD” the Kingdom….the same Kingdom we press into and try to make more tangible to our neighbors and our city.
Please join me in pryer for Mari, that the soil she is working will become fertile. That the language will ‘click’ and she is better able to communicate. Pry for Dora, Falicia and Amanca…who she asked we pry for.
I am cc’ing Mari to this email. If you want, let her know you are prying for her….what a privilege we all have to pry and openly communicate with the Father and each other. Love you guys!

Psalm 66 - Refined

Psalm 66 - Refined
10 For you, O God, tested us; you refined us like silver.11 You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs.12 You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance.
Refining is a difficult process, one that when we are in the middle of….we are never grateful. The helt during refining is at its hottest. I do love that God’s word refers to us as being refined. The fact that we are “precious” metals is a loving analogy. But then, God wants us to become even more precious, more valuable…so he refines us…..to remove any and impurities or imperfections.
When I think of the Refiner….and the process of removing the dross…..the black coat of burnt up impurities on the top of the melted, molten(liquid) gold or silver….scooping all that away…so that when he looks down into the pecious metal….He sees His relflection…..it’s a reminder during the refining process to remove all of the “stuff” that makes us look less like Him.
There is a song by Jeremy Camp called Empty Me….love this;
Holy fire burn away
My desire for anything
That is not of you and is of me
I want more of you
And less of me

Psalm 65 - Floored

Psalm 65 _ Floored
5 You answer us with awesome deeds of righteousness,O God our Savior, the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas,
Spurgeon wrote of this verse;
God's memorial is that he hears prayer, and his glory is that he answers it in a manner fitted to inspire awe in the hearts of his people.
You know so many people try to do something with prayer….other than what God intends it to do. I’m as guilty as anyone.
Garth Brooks wrote about Unanswered Prayers, people always default to praying for healing, happiness, riches…..rarely do we pray for God “awesome deeds of righteousness”.
I truly believe this is the difference between 3rd world countries, where God seems to be moving in incredible ways….and right here in the good ole US of A, where people believe it to be preposterous that God awe them….besides, if we want to be awed….Star Trek is coming out in a few weeks.
I think if we were truly open to be awed by God….we would be. Maybe it starts with the prayers of a few men in Austin…God answer our prayers with awesome deeds of righteousness. Let us anticipate and look forward to your hand moving so obviously and greatly, that we are floored.

Psalm 64 - Create/Fight Injustice

I wouldn’t say that I have been a political junkie in the past….but I did enjoy it. My dad got me hooked on it the first time he decided to run for city council. I was in 9th grade working his phone bank, putting out signs and just being as involved as a 15 year old can be. I went to breakfasts with him on Saturday morning, where he spoke to small groups of men about Economic Development and Tourism. I sat in his office as he and the mayor hammered out strategies and the way they thought the rest of the council would vote.
I learned early on the difference between conservative and liberal, I learned that I was conservative in platform and liberal in ideals….meaning….I was screwed up. I wanted all the things that government could provide….yet I wanted less government and government intrusion. I was pro-life, but I knew we couldn’t legislate morality (hasn’t worked yet). It seemed as though locally….I was a democrat, where I could see the money at work, and nationally I was a Republican. I loved Rush Limbaugh, yet I wanted local government to pass bonds for infrastructure and new ‘stuff’.
I wonder if anyone was as screwed up as me…with their affiliations? I tend to think they are…because man is selfish and tend to see the world as it relates to them….politically.
Well, I read the Psalm this morning, and my mind turned to politics.
Psalm 64:6 They plot injustice and say, 
 "We have devised a perfect plan!" Surely the mind and heart of man are cunning.

I know this over simplification….but;
Dems tend to tug at the heart strings….appeal to the down and out, a promise of a better tomorrow, we’ll take from the filthy rich and redistribute so that life is more fair. They are the advocate of the little man..and they fight the injustice put on them by the GOP.

GOPers tend to circle the wagons, protect against the "money grubbing" Dems, “say” they want to downsize government….all the while…they grow it, they are pro-life, promise a better tomorrow and they fight the injustice put on them by the Dems.

I must say, that I have grown cynical (at least nationally where the big money is) They both have the perfect plan…and it is to keep the people at bay, create injustice for the other side to rally against, keep themselves in office as long as possible, while projecting this image of working for us….and creating/fighting injustice!

Psalm 63 – Anything I Want?

Psalm 63 – Anything I Want?
What a rich Psalm…..maybe someone should write a song…with some of the lines from it.
Something that correlates to a book that I am reading jumped out at me this morning. Verse 3 says;
Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.
I am at a point in my faith life…that including folks who have not had a faith journey before, is becoming more and more natural. But there are so many times that I have acted like a bull in a china shop….and I did anything BUT glorify God.
There was this line in the book The Reason for God….where Keller is talking about people initially making the distinction between “religion” and the Gospel….and we’ve all heard this from someone who is not a Christ Follower…..”that is too easy….you mean, all I gotta do is have this relationship with God and I can do anything I want?”
The religious (or the Pharisee) might take this as an opportunity to jump down the throat of the irreligious…(and I have done this) to say, “No way sinner! you don’t keep on sinning so that grace is multiplied” (which is somewhat scriptural) you don’t trample on the free grace of God. What a stupid thought….seriously!”
The problem with that answer…is that it is spoken from a defensive posture. The Pharisee is more substantiated by his religiousness…than by God’s grace…therefore, he feels compelled to make another Pharisee than a Christ Follower living under grace.
And it came to me this morning….that nope…that type of talk was reserved for believers. When speaking to someone about Christ….with no faith background, we should just say yes….sure….you can do anything you want. Say yes so that this person may taste and see that Lord is good. What happens after that, as we all know…..Christ changes our wants.
The question that the seeker is asking is “spoken outside of an experience of radical Grace” (according to Keller). And I am not saying we should soft sell the Gospel….but our posture needs to continually be inclusive…and not exclusive. Because I truly believe that God’s love is better than life….

Psalm 61 – Day by Day

Psalm 61 – Day by Day
6-7 Increase the days of the king's life, his years for many generations. May he be enthroned in God's presence forever; appoint your love and faithfulness to protect him.
I was talking to Tate the other day and she revealed to me that she wanted to live to the oldest woman ever. My thought was…I sure wouldn’t want to live to be that old. I’m not really sure of her motivation….but I would bet that it revolved around the idea of just NOT DYING.
David here isn’t selfishly asking God to increase the number of days his life for his own glory….but so that he could serve Him, to fulfill his vows before God.
One thing that I love about this passage is the correlation between David’s words in verse 8; “Then will I ever sing praise to your name and fulfill my vows day after day.” And the passage in Luke 9:23-25 when Jesus is talking to his disciples “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self?”
It is truly a daily journey, one with choices…and like David, we can choose to honor God or choose not to. Another great verse, Joshua 24:15 says that you must, “choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve….but as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD”

Ecclesiastes 12 – Philosophy 101

Ecclesiastes 12 – Philosophy 101

Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, "I find no pleasure in them"-

In the verse and the entire chapter, Solomon encourages us to remember God when you are young….before you become either so jaded or so distracted that you no longer see God in the very things He created.
Solomon was said to be and known to the richest and wisest man to ever live. A man who had such wealth and tested the very philosophy he wrote about, because he was in a position to. He tried; knowledge, pleasures, achievements, career, fame, wealth and family ….all these things still left his soul empty….unsatisfied. All these things were chasing the wind. In other words, the very things that “the world” encourages us to chase after….is at best, fleeting.
What a joy and honor it is for me to have seen my kids both recognize God as their Creator and Only Hope while they are still young. I know parents whose kids are wandering….buying into the things that the world is selling….and praying that some day….they would be drawn to the ‘goodness’ of God. Conversely, I know kids whose parents don’t know God. They, because of their age, and what they have seen…and what they have done, believe either that God mercy has passed them over, or that it’s not nearly big enough to save them…from the pain and suffering they have seen and inflicted.
God save them. And thanks for saving me.

Ecclesiastes 11 - Hopeless Sea

Ecclesiastes 11:1
Cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again.

Matthew Henry’s Commentary said of this chapter;
Solomon presses the rich to do good to others. Give freely, though it may seem thrown away and lost. Give to many. Excuse not thyself with the good thou hast done, from the good thou hast further to do. It is not lost, but well laid out. We have reason to expect evil, for we are born to trouble; it is wisdom to do good in the day of prosperity. Riches cannot profit us, if we do not benefit others. Every man must labour to be a blessing to that place where the providence of God casts him.

The water imagery represents the multitudes that we sometimes feel our efforts go wasted on, but according to Isaiah 49:4;
I have labored to no purpose; I have spent my strength in vain and for nothing.Yet what is due me is in the LORD's hand, and my reward is with my God.

Something about what ANC is about….feels right. Though most of us are somewhat new to the experiences we are challenged with….we never leave empty.

Brandon and I were talking about this just the other day, with each new ministry opportunity, there is a certain sense of dread, worry, apprehension….but when you bust through and just do it….God blesses the doer and the giver.
So the challenge is to keep casting bread …… on what appears to be a hopeless sea.

Ecclesiastes 10 - Full of it

Ecclesiastes 10:14 –
A fool also is full of words: a man cannot tell what shall be; and what shall be after him, who can tell him?

Two age old sayings that I love (but don’t always adhere to) are;
It's better to be thought a fool than open your mouth and prove it.
And
We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak

I found a quote from Epictetus, a Greek philosopher, who said;
“First learn the meaning of what you say, and then speak.”

I have gotten myself into trouble so many times with my mouth. I also think too many times we try to understand people without listening to them. Solomon observes that someone who is “full of words” is probably full of something.

Ecclesiastes 8 – Bad things

Ecclesiastes 8 – Bad things

14 There is something else meaningless that occurs on earth: righteous men who get what the wicked deserve, and wicked men who get what the righteous deserve.

This is timeless….yet the questions persist. Why do bad things happen to good people? or Why does HE get all the breaks?
These questions really seen to bother both followers of Christ and those who don’t. But I think for followers of Christ….we were given;
1 Peter 2:18-24 Slaves, submit yourselves to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God. But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. 
 "He committed no sin, 
 and no deceit was found in his mouth."When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.

I think the challenge is whether we follow Christ’s example and “trust ourselves to the one judges justly.” I mean….if anyone who ever walked the earth had the justification to scream….UNFAIR! it would be Christ.

Seriously, we have talked about this before…..but I don’t think we really want what is fair. What is fair in God’s economy is Hell and Eternal Separation from Him. What is fair is what happened to Ananias and Sapphira.

I believe God wants to see if, in these times, we trust Him. We trust his judgement, as absolutely the Perfect Judge…or do we only trust him when things are going well?

Ecclesiastes 6 - Enjoy the Ride

Ecclesiastes 6 –
God gives a man wealth, possessions and honor, so that he lacks nothing his heart desires, but God does not enable him to enjoy them, and a stranger enjoys them instead. This is meaningless, a grievous evil.
I have seen people like this…so engrossed in their empire, their family, their money, their status….each new wrung that is achieved is never enough. You cant enjoy where you….for the lure of where you think you should be.
I think about “the Journey” we like to talk about at ANC. A few weeks ago, Brandon showed us a picture of a Winnebago Motor Home that their family used for a trip one time. And he reminded us that it isn’t always about the destination….its about the journey. There is fun in the journey, adventure in the journey, there are times that you will never recapture or recreate along the way.
We have become so discontent in our journey…we are always thinking someone elses is better. That is what I love about service with the poor, the oppressed, the marginalized….it is a great reminder that this person….would give their right arm for my journey.
Someone sent me this great example of how discontent we have become in our culture….and he even mentions a journey….on an airplane…..how true is this.

Ecclesiastes 5 – Permission to Enjoy

Ecclesiastes 5 – Permission to Enjoy

Ecclesiastes 5:19-20 Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work—this is a gift of God. He seldom reflects on the days of his life, because God keeps him occupied with gladness of heart.

Guys, I know we are wealthy…some more than others, but all of us at more than 90+% of the worlds population. I don’t feel the need to beat myself about that. We were all fortunate that we were born in a capitalist society that values that, able to become educated, better ourselves and live in the manner we do.
I really do enjoy my ‘things’. They are still that….just things…I don’t dwell on them….none of them are the objects of my Godly affection....so I feel Solomon is saying, “It’s okay to have stuff.” Not that God blesses financially his children….but when it happens….he wants you to enjoy it. But what are you doing with it, and are you living within your means (and this includes giving back to God what is His).
I also believe that, to those who are given much….much is expected. We have talents, that God gave us…that we are to use to be a ‘part of the body’. We all have our thing but that comes with a financial tag as well.
I pray this for the offering every week…and I believe this….God doesn’t need our money, but the work the church is doing… isn’t possible without giving.
I think that the “gladness of heart” is achieved when we become content with what we have, the things we possess, and the money we use for ministry.

Ecclesiastes 4 – Influences

Ecclesiastes 4 – Influences

Ecc. 4:13 Better a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer knows how to take warning.

Being poor creates need. Being wise and poor lets you see where you can sustain yourself…get your needs met.

I know this, I don’t want to become the old foolish king. I think about President Obama, and his Cabinet. The President can’t be completely knowledgeable in ALL areas, so he ask those people who are known for their expertise in certain areas to fill in the gaps. The president may have a working knowledge of Finance….but he has a Secretary of Finance (it may be called something else) there to instruct the President in areas of finance. A foolish President would go against (not listen to) the advice of the ‘expert’ in a certain area….much like the foolish king. God, surround me with your men…and allow them to feel the need to speak into me, when you direct. God allow me to receive your words…..don’t allow my heart to harden. Do what it takes, Lover of my Soul.
I would still like to be more associated with the wise youth. I still enjoy the wonderment of new things. I believe this is why Christ tell us we must be like a child….a child believes 100%....whatever a parent tells them. A child believes a parent can catch them if they fall….100%. Children don’t hold anything back. To a child…a parent has super-human strength. That is the kind of faith Christ wants us to have….not a blind faith, but one rooted in trust and love.

Ecclesiastes 3 – Bad Science

Ecclesiastes 3 – Bad Science
11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men.

I know this to be true for me…but I wonder if those who claim NO eternity, who believe when we die….we just cease to exist, actually believe this, or if they did claim to believe otherwise, they’d have to do something with God.

A scientist who once tried to prove/disprove the existence of an afterlife, once created a test that only he knew the answers to, sealed them in an envelope, and after his death instructed those close to him to use 5 mediums to channel his spirit and find out the answers…of course, the mediums didn’t/couldn’t. Thus proving no afterlife? Or thus proving all mediums are full of crap?

Another scientist reported of eternity….’Finding out is easy. Reporting back is the challenge.’

I think the fact that scientist are constantly at odds with biblical truths, actually gives credence to the fact that something (God of the Bible/eternity) is on the hearts of men.

Ecclesiastes 2 - Journey

Ecclesiastes 2 - Journey

I have seen rich men wrestle with this same thing that Solomon is realizing. Work hard to amass riches…and in the end, pass it off to someone who will never appreciate your efforts. What’s the point?
In our western culture, we are very ‘self’ and ‘me’ focused, not to mention money focused (which I guess about me and my ability to do whatever the heck I wanna do). Most infomercials and best selling books and magazines are about making money, becoming rich, getting out of debt or lifestyles of rich and famous. When comparing riches though…..Solomon surpasses Bill Gates and “the Donald” combined. And again, we see that he finds no ultimate good or pleasure from amassing wealth.
I think Ecclesiastes ties in very nicely with;
Matt 6:19"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Just a quick aside….I looked up Matthew 6…in my blogging this morning to see what I had written about this verse….WOW!
No, I really didn’t write anything good….but it took me back to a time, before Austin. The excitement about coming and being a part of ANC was thick…..Jenny and I had been driving to and from Corpus for months in late 2007, and the date we journalled Matt 6, we were prepping to leave home.
What a journey it has been so far. Thank you guys for walking with me, encouraging me, pouring into me and supporting me. This really is a cool journey…and exactly what Solomon realized in Ecclesiastes. It’s the ETERNAL that is significant, not the rat race or the “American Dream”.

Ecclesiastes 1 - Trying to Rope the Wind

Ecclesiastes 1 -
"Look, I have grown and increased in wisdom more than anyone who has ruled over Jerusalem before me; I have experienced much of wisdom and knowledge." 17 Then I applied myself to the understanding of wisdom, and also of madness and folly, but I learned that this, too, is a chasing after the wind.
Everything….there is nothing new. Why do we keep chasing in vain the things that allude us? Even wisdom?
What Solomon is saying…..if wisdom itself were all living was about…..it wouldn’t be worth living, would it?

I have known some who measure their ‘worth’….by the knowledge they have attained. I think deep down, like Solomon, they must know that the knowledge reveals the holes in their quest. It also reveals the need to explain the answers that elude even the wisest man.
Like Solomon says….its chasing after the wind.

Psalm 60 – Disparity?

Psalm 60 – Disparity?
When you read the description of the Psalm at the beginning and realize that in this time…David was at the height of his victories….why does the Psalm read like he is getting his butt handed to him day after day?
One of the commentaries I read said that;
David saw himself as a small part of a grand scheme in which God caused the rise and fall of nations for His own purposes. Even David’s victories were seen as chastenings of a sort—costly reminders that the outcome of events does not depend on the strength or will of man, but upon the decree of God, the true King, who disposes all things according to His wisdom, justice, and mercy.
In other words, David is recognizing is that….even in times of victory, there is someone on the other side….who the favor of the Lord isn’t shining on….that the grace and mercy of the Lord is solely His to bestow to bring glory to Himself.
ANC finds itself in a time of favor…and we pray for that to continue. But we realize that there are church planters all over town, and the country for that matter, who have felt a calling by God to plant only to fail.
I really don’t have any clue as to why…..but what I do know…is that there is a season in the life of this church, where we are winning battles large and small. To God be the Glory!

In Psalm 59 - God is my……

In Psalm 59 - God is my……

At some point in life, we all feel as though we have adversaries. Whether is a personal attack or a spiritual attack….we have at time felt vulnerable, beat down, hurt, attacked, abused, hated or unloved.
David in this situation writes a beautiful Psalm to his God..and calls God 5 very distinct names, all different attributes that David found in God in this moment.
Isn’t it amazing that the very attributes David needed in his God….he found.
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
Jeremiah 29:13

David found God to be his;
Strength
Fortress
Loving God
Our shield
Refuge

Now, I’ve addressed the “Name it and Claim it” gospel before…and I don’t think this is what is going on at all. I just feel that David is ‘a man after God’s own heart.’, and pursuing God’s will. It says in John 14 that;
‘I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.’

Seder

We had a great time last night at the Seder Dinner. Dale Lear and his family, along with several key volunteers pulled off an amazing dinner. We sang, we talked, we ate....the kids looked for the Afikoman...we sang some more (in Hebrew) it was amazing.
The Afikoman may have been my favorite part of the meal. When Dale lifted the Matzah Tash Bag...which was a beautifully embroidered bag with three compartments for Matzah....he showed us the compartments and how the Matzah in the middle was taken out, broken and hidden.....it was so obvious that this signified Jesus. Yet he said rabbis argue on the meaning or remain silent all together.
Some interpret Afikoman as dessert.....or 'that which comes later'. The thing that struck me...was the apparent symbolism of Jesus being broken, Jesus being buried (hidden) and jesus raising from the dead (being found by those who went looking for him). Jews are actually taking part in communion when they continue this tradition.

Psalm 58 – Defang

Psalm 58 – Defang
Matthew Henry said it best in his commentary this morning on verses 6-11;
David prayed that the enemies of God's church and people might be disabled to do further mischief. We may, in faith, pray against the designs of the enemies of the church.
As ANC is poised for ‘even greater works’ I am reminded to pray for the enemies of God’s Church. Like MH says….not solely for salvation (which we do pray for) but to render the enemies harmless.
6 Break the teeth in their mouths, O God;
tear out, O LORD, the fangs of the lions!
We have been praying from the inception of ANC to bring us the ‘right people’. And so far, I feel God has provided us the correct pieces of the puzzle. Evidence; Two Sundays ago we served across this city, with more people than normally show up for a Sunday Service. Our folks tirelessly serve, give of themselves, and continue to find new ways to give more. The Spirit is palpable whenever we meet……whether it be for Sunday Service, Community Group, or just over coffee or lunch. There has been no real division or distraction from the work God has called us to. And there is something unique God is doing at ANC but maybe more importantly THROUGH ANC….not that it has never been done before, or we have cornered the market on it….but like Brandon has said….we recognize this and ”we just don’t wanna screw this up.”