Pastors Pen 2007

	Pastor's Pen 2007 Archieves

Glory to God in the Highest

12.9.07

Luke 2:13-14 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

It may have went something like this:

Angel 1: “Where you going.”

Angel 2: “I’ve got to see it.”

Angel 1: “What do you have to see? What are you talking about?”

Angel 2: Haven’t you heard, Today is the day, He comes to earth as a baby. He becomes flesh, one of them!

Angel 1: “This I’ve got to see, I coming too. Lets get the others and go and watch how the world reacts.”

As they settle in the skies above Bethlehem they are overcome by the quietness of the world below. No talk of a Messiah, no exaltation, no singing of praises. Instead they hear the grumblings about a Caser and anger over taxes. They are left with one question, “what shall we do? We’ve got to let someone know.” Then with a burst of light and a sound like no one has ever heard, it’s recorded:

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

This holiday season be a person of praise. God has come and hope for today and eternity lives! Jesus, He’s the reason for my joy! How about you?

An Ordinary Day

12.2.07

Luke 1:26 Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazareth.

t was just an ordinary day. There was nothing about it that would have caused your eye brows to rise or raise your suspicions. Mary arose that day with the same thoughts as she had the day before; goats to milk, a home to clean and a visit to the market. Her life was rather simple and not much happened in her little community...but this day it would be different. The chill was still in morning air as she began the chores. The darkness was giving way to the sun when suddenly it happened. In an instant an angel appears and a proclamation is made. A bewildered Mary tries to come to grip that her life is going to be forever changed and so too the course of the souls of man. The Messiah was coming, and she had been chosen as a participant.

How close are you to your divine moment? Not really that far, just one ordinary day. A day when your life looks uneventful; a day when the PDA is full of appointments, a day of chasing another cold sales call or just another day dealing with the stress of your life. In a moment it all could change. A burning bush, a bright light, an angel; they all happened on an ordinary day when God destined to change the course of someone’s life. Today could be your day!

Christmas Craziness

11.25.07

Luke 2:11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

In case you’ve been off the planet the past few days and didn’t know, it’s officially started; Christmas Craziness. People camping out in freezing temperatures at midnight, the mad dash for the hot gift of the year and endless parties and social gatherings.

Caught in the midst of the madness, I began to think about the absurdity of it all. We have people celebrating the birth of someone they don’t really know and though invited, they rarely come to His house. It gave me a fresh appreciation for what I have, a relationship and friendship with God.

Celebrate the fact that you know the reason for the season; Jesus! I encourage you to take time out this year to touch someone’s life with the love that brought God to this earth, to sing His songs with purpose, to give as He gave and to tell His story to your children and others with a renewed passion.

Jesus, someone you know and who knows you. Jesus, your Savior, your hope and your personal friend.

A THANKSGIVING PERSPECTIVE

11.11.07

1 Chronicles 16:34 O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.

Count your blessings instead of your crosses;
Count your gains instead of your losses.
Count your joys instead of your woes;
Count your friends instead of your foes.
Count your smiles instead of your tears;
Count your courage instead of your fears.
Count your full years instead of your lean;
Count your kind deeds instead of your mean.
Count your health instead of your wealth;
Count on God instead of yourself.

~ Author Unknown ~

Unaware

11.4.07

Psalms 106:4 Remember me, O Lord, with the favour that thou bearest unto thy people: O visit me with thy salvation;

We were awaken very early Saturday morning by the sound of sirens. By the time I made it downstairs and out the doors they were coming down the street, not to our house, but the house to the east of us. Our neighbor to the west had heard an alarm and smelled smoke, so she called. When the firemen arrived, they were ready for battle. They had their tools engaged, they banged on the door and looked in the windows, but no one came to their call. The house was empty. It ended sort of anti-climatic, no fire, just a false alarm. What caught my attention was what happened later in the day; the owner came home, raised his garage door, got his mail and went into his house, unaware of the event that had happened earlier in the morning. Just another day in paradise, little did he know.

It made me think. Sometimes we as Christians live such blessed lives we don’t even realize what God has done for us through a day. A car wreck that doesn’t happen, sickness that never came; just God stepping in on our behalf, protecting us from events we were unaware of. Need a reason to praise him today? Praise him for what didn’t happen in your life last week!

A Sacrifice of Praise

10.28.08

Psalms 150:2 Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness.

A sacrifice of praise will always cost you something. It will be a difficult thing to do. It requires trading in our pride, anger, and most valued of all, our human logic. When praise becomes a part of our life we will be compelled to voice our words of praise firmly and precisely, even as our logic screams that God has no idea what he's doing.

Did you realize that most of the verses written about praise in God's Word were penned by men and women who faced crushing heartaches, injustice, treachery, slander, and scores of other intolerable situations?

Today, make a conscience decision that whether the worst or best of times you are going to be a person of praise. What will happen? Maybe nothing, or maybe God will step in and change your situation. Regardless, your life will be better when you get your eyes off your situation and on the God that can solve your situation. Praise, it may not change your situation, but it does change your perspective.

10.22.07

Fall

Fall time in Indiana...there is something to be said about the beauty it brings; the endless color all around us reminds us once again of how God so beautifully designed the earth for our pleasure. Parks are filled with the sound of laughter, children playing, running to and fro, from slide to monkey bar. You can hear the sound of crunching leaves beneath their feet. Above the chatter and giggles you will hear it if you listen for it, “Hey dad, this park is great.” This happened for me; I caught the dad’s expression just in time, a smile came to his face and he spoke back, “thanks”, he said!

A park without children is useless, cold, and empty. My thoughts didn’t stop there. In the Beginning of time God created the beautiful earth and heavens, the mountains and streams. When he looked over all that he had made he said, “This is good.” But God himself knew also that something was missing. He longed for communion with another being, someone he could talk with, laugh with and share with. And so He created man to enjoy this world with all its splendor and glory. He knew an earth without people to fill it, explore it and nurture it would be void and useless.

As we experience this beautiful time of year with all of its splendor, as we go about and enjoy the blessings of God, I never want to forget that He created this world’s beauty for us to enjoy. God Himself breathed into existence the most beautiful masterpiece of all time. The mountains were formed for us to climb, explore and enjoy their splendor from its peaks. The earth was created for the air to be filled with singing, laughing, freshness and renewing. The oceans were made for us to enjoy its crashing waves, thunderous sounds, and then to experience the peace it can bring. The magnitude of flowers to smell, rocks to collect, and colorful trees to discover are to numerous to count. In the middle of all of this let us never forget to lift our heads upward every day and breathe the words, “This Park is great God, thanks for giving it to us to enjoy.”

Mary Hudson

10.14.07

Don't Be a Stationary Christian

Matthew 28:19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit,

Stationary bike, even it’s name makes no sense. You pedal, yet go nowhere. You’ve seen them, people in health centers riding like they’re in the Tour de France, yet if you were to ask them where they’ve been or what they’ve seen, all they can say is, “I never left the room and never saw anything beyond the walls.” Why ride a stationary bike when you can ride the real thing. Why spin the tires without feeling the wind flow through your hair, hear the birds chirp and see the splendor of God’s glory here on earth? Maybe I’m out in left field, but being on a stationary bike seems boring!

What’s my point? Simple. Don’t be a stationary Christian! Step outside your box. Stop wasting your time on the trivial. Experience the fullness of God’s majesty and glory. Too many Christians get on their “religious stationary bikes” and ride to no where. They go through the motions of church and devotion, but never get to see the fullness of joy that is in Christ.

Christians aren’t supposed to be stationary, they’re called to action. Go on a spiritual journey. Experience the wind of the spirit, the sounds of praise and the awesomeness of God’s power. Start enjoying the excitement of living in Christ!

Barriers
10.7.07

Mark 2:16
And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with publicans and sinners,
they said unto his disciples, How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners?

Barriers. They are everywhere. They keep our cars on the road and protect us from harm. But not all barriers are good. We find that Jesus often wanted to get inside someone’s life, but because of a persons past, there were barriers. So how did Jesus get through the emotional wall? Amazingly, it often came through food.

Jesus would go places “the religious” wouldn’t and speak to those the sacred avoided. He was ridiculed for it. Their accusations, “He eats and drinks with imperfect people!” Now there’s a revolutionary thought, eating with someone who doesn’t have it all together!

Why not get outside of the box this week. Break down the barriers, who knows, your life might be impacted by a new friendship. That’s what happened to those who opened their homes and lives to Jesus.

Running on Limited Power
9.30.7

Acts 1:8
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you:
and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem,
and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

This past week I stopped in Target to pick up a couple things and to my surprise the place was half dark. Lights were dim, the pharmacy shut down, refrigerators could not be opened and only a few registers were running. When I asked if they were open, there response was, “oh yes, were open, we’re just running on limited power, about 10%.” Somehow, somewhere, someone had cut their power supply and so they managed, only operating at minimal efficiency.

Ever see a Christian like that? Ever feel like that yourself? Just running at minimal efficiency? Jesus said, “you shall receive power after the Holy Ghost has come upon you,” but somehow, somewhere, something has cut the power supply. If your joy is dim, faith shut down or hope melting; the problem is obvious, running on limited power!

Why not ask God to fill your heart with His Spirit afresh. Get full of the Holy Spirit again this week!

If You Will...I Will
9.23.2007

2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray,
and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways;
then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

This past week we invited our church family to participate in the final of our three yearly fast. Throughout the Bible fasting has been a way of humbling oneself before God and gaining spiritual strength. The words of the prophet above gives us insight on how to see God move in our lives, homes and community. It begins when we submit and yield our lives to God and His Word, it continues when we seek God through prayer and fasting and is complete when we have genuine contrition, sorrow and repentance for the wrongs we have committed before God and to others.

What’s the upside of when we get it right with God? A commitment from God that we will hear from heaven, that our sins will be forgiven and healing will come.

Not a bad trade! I get rid of my pride, renew my relationship with Jesus and clear my conscience of sin. In return, I get God’s attention, my sins wiped away and healing.

To those who participated, be encouraged, you’ve got a promise. To those who missed last weeks opportunity, it’s not too late. Get in on the promises of God this week!

See Yourself in God's Word
9.16.2007

Psalms 139:23-24
Search me , O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

We often look at the failures of well-known people to feel better about ourselves. But if we feel good about the wrongs of others, we don't truly know ourselves. For example, the Bible doesn't tell us about the sins of David to weaken our sense of moral alarm, but to put all of us on notice. Though we have accomplished much in Christ, we must always be on guard. Satan is always looking for an opportunity to take us down.

When we see the failures of others, it should cause us to be more aware of our own weaknesses and need for the mercy and grace that only comes through Christ. Only when we acknowledge our weakness do we become dependent on the strength of our God.

One man said, the Bible is just like a mirror. It shows me the need of my heart, For in it we see an accurate image, a portrait of me--every part.

As we continue our commitment to the month of the family, take time to reflect on your life, it’s strengths and weaknesses and then pray that God will be your strength in your weakness.

Building a Better Home
9.9.2007

Isaiah 28:10
For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept;
line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:

Our focus this September is to equip families with the necessary tools to be successful in the 21st century. Whether you are single, married or in the golden years of life, I pray that our viewpoints will benefit either your own lives or be a tool you can share with someone else.

Today’s viewpoint is on seven effective ways to discipline children:

· Train and discipline your children early and often.

· Making corporal punishment a last resort, not the first.

· Administer disciplines promptly.

· Parents must be unified in rules and disciplines.

· Make sure corporal punishment is done in with the right attitude and spirit and in the right time and place.

· Always discipline in love.

· Discipline with repentance. Your desired change for your child is on the inside

* Taken from Adrian Rogers, Pastor Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, TN

We should always remember the words of Isaiah. God is patient with us, teaching a little here and a little there and over time we evolve into what he desires. Training our children is much the same as God trains us. It’s an ongoing project, not accomplished in a moment. It truly is line upon line, precept upon precept.

Life and Family
9.2.2007

Deuteronomy 12:28
Observe and hear all these words which I command thee,
that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee for ever,
when thou doest that which is good and right in the sight of the Lord thy God.

So what are we supposed to during the month of the family? Good question. While the list below is not exhaustive or perfect, maybe it will spark an idea that will forever change your family.

· Commit to daily prayer.

· Spend quality time with your kids.

· Go on a bike ride.

· Read the Bible together.

· Turn off the TV.

· Pack a picnic and go to the park.

· Have family devotions.

· Eat dinner together as much as possible each week and talk about your day.

· Talk about God’s goodness!

· Have fun and laugh.

· Send your spouse a card.

· Put a note in your kids lunch box.

· Remind each other God is on top of everything!

· Pop popcorn and play a game like Monopoly, Life or Sorry with your spouse and kids.

· Smile a lot!

You may attain great wealth, climb the ladder of success or be known in the finest social circles, but nothing is more important than the time you take and the memories you make with your spouse, family and friends.

How Big is Your God?
8.19.2007

Isaiah 66:1
Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool :
where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest?

How big is your God? Big Question. In a sense, you control the size of God. Yes, you heard me, you control the size of God. Sure, He sits in Heaven and the earth is His foot stool, but how big is your God? Expect little, get little. Expect a lot and you will get a lot. Ask for nothing and get the same, ask big things and see a big God make big things happen; not outside His will, but ask anything in His name and it shall be done.

Let me testify today, “my God is big!” Nothing is to difficult, nothing surprises Him, there is no situation that stumps Him. My God is able to do exceedingly and abundantly above what I could ever ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). A blind man asked for sight, no problem, God makes a little mud and suddenly blinded eyes see. A petition by a parent of a grievously ill girl, no problem, “I’ll come and heal her.” A cripple on a stretcher dropped from a roof, no problem, “He forgives his sins and then, oh yes, take up your bed and walk.”

How big is your God? I submit He is no bigger than your request, faith and hope. It’s not a question of whether He can, but if you can believe. Got something big going on in your life. Take it to your big God! Don’t ask, “can God” but turn it around “God can!”

Life Connections Ground Breaking!
8.12.2007

1 Corinthians 2:9
But as it is written, Eye hath not seen , nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man,
the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

Groundbreaking. It’s more than a shovel full of dirt and a few pictures, it’s more a philosophy of our church. We don’t want to be an average church; we want to be like the church in the book of Acts. Now that was a church that was groundbreaking! Nothing about it was normal. It involved people that few would have chosen. They met, not in a synagogue, but an upper room. They didn’t follow the religious traditions of the day; instead they had a prayer meeting. They came with expectations, left full of the Spirit and later were called “those who turned the world upside down.” Now that’s groundbreaking!

While we are only three years old, Life Connections has experienced it’s own miracles. Birthed from a garage sale, a ladies Bible study and “Camp Blue Sky” VBS; we’ve gathered together for Bible Studies in homes, experienced the awesome power of God’s presence at our weekly home here at Brooks School and seen God miraculously give us land through the generosity of James and Brenda Coffey. Groundbreaking! And it’s only the beginning...

A Reunion You Don't Want to Miss
8.5.2007

1 Corinthians 2:9
But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man,
the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

Anti-climatic. That’s the only way I could describe it. What? My 25th class reunion. Only a handful of my 300 classmates came, more alcohol than conversation and so a few hours later after coming with anticipation I left disappointment.

Someday though, I will meet for another reunion, but this time not with classmates, but fellow Christians through the ages. There will be no disappointment there. In that reunion I meet Moses, David, Peter, Paul and many more. So overwhelmed I will cry, “Holy, Holy.” At that reunion there will be no more sickness, sorrow, pain or death. It will not be anti-climatic, in fact the scripture above says, “no eye has seen, nor ear heard what God has prepared for us.” Make plans today to be ready for that day. It’s a reunion you don’t want to miss!

A Momentous Day!
7.29.7

Zecheriah 8:9

Thus saith the Lord of hosts; Let your hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets, which were in the day that the foundation of the house of the Lord of hosts was laid, that the temple might be built .

Today is a momentous day in the history of Life Connections. Today, by faith, our church family sets course on a journey, to lay the foundation that will change the destiny of many families in Fishers and establish a place that the Life Connections family can call home for years to come.

Our vision has always been certain; to establish a book of Acts church in Fishers that would connect people to faith, family and friends, but our course has not always been as clear as it is today. Through the leadership of the Holy Spirit, the generous gift of the Coffey family and the many wonderful families that make Life Connections their home, today we will vote to move into the future home of Life Connections.

As you prayerfully consider how you will vote today, I hope that you will consider the spiritual possibilities that our future home will bring to your family, both today and the generations that follow, and for the many new families that will be impacted by the gospel message that will be preached in the new building. Today, we lay the foundation for our future. I don’t know about you, but I am excited! Very excited!

Race to the Finish
7.22.7

1 Corinthians 3:6-7
6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.
7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.

Race to the Finish VBS. This past week Life Connections put on our annual community event where we invite kids from all over Fishers to learn about Jesus. They come in for two hours for three days. They learn songs, do crafts, hear a Bible lesson and then close it out with their favorite, the relay races and a snack for the road. Nearly a dozen people volunteered to make this community event happen. Some led songs, brought snacks, others helped with crafts, lessons, decorations and check-in and then there were the faithful Crew Chiefs that kept everything orderly and flowing; to all a special thank you. To your pastor's wife, a special big thank you, it could not have happened without her tireless and focused determination.

Why do Race to the Finish? Because Jesus instructed us to plant seeds. Because it's our community. Because families in Fishers need to know about a church that cares about their children, their homes and their spiritual well being. My heart has been warmed as many came up to Mary and I or called and in their own way said, "thanks." Actually, we were the ones who were thankful. Thankful that we were allowed to be a part of their lives and maybe in some small way point them toward Jesus and a destination called Heaven. Life Connections, a community church connecting people to faith, family and friends...may we never forget our purpose.

When Life Seems to Hard
7.8.7

1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it.

Two years ago it was a bicycle; Daddy it’s too hard, I can’t do it. Last year it was a scooter; Daddy its so hard, I’ll never learn. A few days ago it was Heelys; Dad, I can’t do it. Each year seems to bring a new challenge to Risa’s life and the feeling of being incapable of accomplishing something that I know she can do. It’s hard at first; tears, some times anger but I keep on encouraging her, “you can do it Risa.” Eventually she succeeds and a big smile makes it worth every minute of frustration. Today she rides a bike, scooter and yes her Heelys!

Might I suggest that my little adventures with Risa is a lot like what God does to us. We overcome one hurdle in life and we’re ready to coast when God brings something new into our lives. We get angry, cry and vent, but eventually we overcome and what seemed so bad a few months before now seems as easy as riding a bike. Maybe you feel like you can’t get over your current test; you can and God knows it. That’s why He won’t let you give up, He keeps encouraging you and eventually, if you will stick with it, you will overcome and feel the sense of accomplishment.

What’s God got you going through right now? Don’t be discouraged, He wouldn’t put you in a situation He knew you couldn’t handle; He loves you too much!

Independence
7.1.7

John 8:36
If therefore the Son shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.

A convertible with the top down, a long country road and cares left at home. A fresh powdery snow, a pair of ski’s and an empty slope. A few hours to yourself; no car pools, the house is clean, kids and spouse are away and the to do list is caught up. A piece of cloth with seven red stripes, six white and a patch of blue with 50 stars.

A manger in Bethlehem, Calvary’s cross and an empty tomb.

Independence. Live in it, enjoy it, appreciate it and never fail to give thanks for it!

Spiritual Drought
6.24.7

Acts 3:19
Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out,
when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;

Drought, pretty simple to define, it is the absence of rainfall. We’ve experienced it here in central Indiana lately. Many of our yards have turned brown, flowers have withered and plants wilted under the heat, but then came yesterdays rain. A deluge. I watched and pondered how the grass, plants and flowers felt, as finally, rain fell on their dry and thirsty roots. I can only imagine if they could talk we would have heard, “ahhh, I was so parched.”

So how about you. How long has it been since the rain of His Spirit has fell on your heart. Hope fading? Joy withered? Faith famished? Maybe you are in the midst of a spiritual drought. What your soul is in need of is a good refreshing of God’s Spirit...a deluge, just a straight down, hard pouring rain of God’s Spirit on your hear. There is nothing like it. Refreshing. Invigorating. Joy that can not be contained. These are just a few of the words you will use when the fresh rain of God’s Spirit falls fresh on you. Lets pray that God will send a storm of His Spirit on Life Connections today and weeks to come, both here on Sunday’s and in our own homes.

Ten Ways to be a Great Dad
6.17.7

Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

Respect your Wife
Spend time with your Children
Earn the Right to be Heard
Discipline in Love
Be a Role Model & Teacher
Take them to Church
Eat Together as a Family
Read to your Children
Show Affection
Realize that a Father's Job is Never Done

The Value of Fellowship
6.10.7

Acts 2:42
...and they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship ,
and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

In case you didn’t know a lot can happen over a good meal. Jesus often used food to set the stage to reveal himself to people, perform miracles and teach. It was as He was sitting at a meal when a woman poured ointment on His feet and taught us about worship. It was a meal that taught us how God could take a little and multiply it to feed many. It was at a meal, the last supper, that Jesus explained His purpose and destiny.

Food is a great way to break down barriers, get to know someone better and even find common ground. That’s why we are going to grab a piece of chicken, try some good sides dishes and indulge ourselves in desserts today; we need to get to know each other better. What we are doing today is not new, it goes all the way back to the church in the book of Acts. It’s just after they experienced the moving of the Holy Spirit and where do we find them? Having fellowship by breaking bread.

I hope you will take advantage of the time we can spend together today as we learn a little more about each other, laugh, compete and enjoy some good food. For now, pass the chicken and save me a piece of the best dessert!

The Addition of Light

6.3.7

John 1:42
And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said,
Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas , which is by interpretation, A stone.

A couple of weeks ago I got to go on a field trip to Marango Cave with Gentry. As we journeyed through the cave we had already seen hundreds of stalactites, but suddenly our guide stopped and pointed to a small stalactite and said , “this is called a girl on a swing.” As we strained to look at the stalactite, we could vaguely make out the form, but then something changed. The guide pointed her flashlight at the stalactite and moved it left and right just a little. Suddenly, not only could we see the girl on the swing, but she appeared to be moving. The addition of light changed everything!

Might I suggest the same thing can happen in our lives. We see one thing in our lives, but God sees something entirely different. That’s why Jesus could look at a rough, crude and arrogant old fisherman name Simon and say, “I shall call you Cephas, or rock.” Why? Because God is light and when His light reflects on a life, things change. The fearful become bold, the weak become strong and the weary gain strength. My prayer for each of us is that the light of God’s revelation might shine on our hearts and we could see ourselves as He sees us. Take time to ask God to let you see yourself as God see’s you. You might be amazed what He see’s and what His plans are for your life.

Just a Reminder
5.27.7

Joshua 4:5-6
And Joshua said unto them, Pass over before the ark of the Lord your God into the midst of Jordan, and take ye up every man of you a stone upon his shoulder, according unto the number of the tribes of the children of Israel: 6 That this may be a sign among you, that when your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, What mean ye by these stones?

Reminders. We have them everywhere; sticky notes, pda’s, cell phones, we even have our spouses and friends remind us of things we are supposed to remember. Why? Because we have a tendency to forget. To forget important things we are supposed to remember like birthdays, anniversaries and appointments. This weekend we celebrate the Memorial Day weekend, a time to remember those who have gone before. Unfortunately, many have forgotten the purpose and we celebrate a holiday without reason; just a day out of school or off of work.

God knew our tendency to forget, so He too gave us reminders of things we should not forget; like to keep the Sabbath day holy and to remember His work on the cross. Why is remembering important? Because there will be another generation that will not remember the sacrifices that were made and heartache that God protected us from. As Joshua and the Children of Israel cross a dry Jordan River bed, God has them pause, get some rocks and build a memorial. Why? So the next generation will remember what God had done for them.

As families, lets remember to take time out to build memories both in our faith and in our homes so that our children too will remember the values of our faith and families. If you haven’t started yet, start today. Make a memory.

A Guarantee of Success
5.20.7

Proverbs 16:3
Commit to the Lord whatever you do and your plans will succeed.

What are you committed too? Tough question. The answer to the question probably not only reveals the direction of your life, but also reveals the potential of success in your future. How so? Proverbs 3 talks about leaning on our own ability and understanding, if we do, we will likely fall well below what God has designed for our lives. Surrender the leadership of your life to Jesus and all your steps will lead to success. How can I make that guarantee? Simple. Following Jesus may not lead to earthly pleasure, wealth and happiness, but if you sell out to His plan, salvation plan, it leads to an eternity without pain, sorrow or tears and one filled with everlasting joy and happiness!

Are you destined to eternal success? Take time this week to do a little evaluation. Look at your check book, that will tell you about your commitments. Scan your day timer or PDA, that will tell you about commitments. Evaluate your closest friendships; what are their values, beliefs and convictions, that will tell you what your committed to.

Let me challenge you to do as the above Proverb says, “commit to the Lord whatever you do,” and see if God’s guarantee of success doesn’t begin to work in your life. Live above the daily grind, live in God’s plan of success!

The Right Scent
By Mrs. Mary Hudson
4.29.07

Proverbs 27:9
“Ointment and Perfume Rejoice the heart;”

It seemed like yesterday Gentry was sitting on my lap as I was reading a story to him before his nap time. He kept lifting my hand to his face and saying, “mmm, you smell good mommy.” It made me smile and even now reflecting back to that moment it makes me smile still. Kids have a way of saying pure innocent things from their heart that can change your world in an instant. The way they say it and how it comes out touches the heart.

We have the same opportunity every day to touch someone in the same way. What is your “spiritual scent” saying about you? What is being reflected from your heart that people notice? What is your face expressing to the one who may be hurting and needing an extra smile of encouragement? Are we too busy to lend a helping hand? Are we trying to reach and touch and love and care? The innocent scent of a warm smile or a helping hand can go a long way in reaching our world...it could be their stepping stone to reaching for God for the first time.

Let the scent that comes from us be one people will talk about!! It’s a good thing!!

Value Today
4.22.2007

James 4:14
Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.

This week we once again witnessed the fragileness of life. Sitting here a week ago who would have imagined that in a small town in Virginia on a college campus a lone gunman would bring so much grief and pain to so many families. The words of James ring clear, what is your life, it is but a vapor, here a while and fades a way. Value each day with family and friends, make more memories than money and laugh more than you stress. You have been given the gift of life, make the most of each day.

This week I would ask that each of us take time to pray for those who have tragically lost loved ones and friends and while your at it, take time to say thanks for the life you have each day.

What's Your Purpose?
4.15.07

1 Kings 5:5a
And, behold, I purpose to build an house unto the name of the Lord my God...

Do you have a purpose? Ever wondered what you were here on earth for? Do you live day by day, pay check to pay check? If the most important thing on your agenda is finding out if Sanjaya is going to get voted off of American Idol or if your team is going to the playoffs, then you need purpose.

Purpose is defined as the quality of being determined to do or achieve something. May I suggest that you have a purpose, a reason for living and it’s more than seventy some years here then the grave. Your purpose is to prepare for eternity. There is a heaven to gain and hell to avoid. Not many like to hear the story, but each one of us must find the cross of Calvary, follow the plan of salvation and live in such a way that heaven is your destiny once you cross from here to the other side.

Over the next few weeks we here at Life Connections will be working on Living Life with a Purpose. I invite you to join us. Pick up Rick Warren’s book Purpose Driven Life and be with us each week as we discover our Life’s purpose. Live your life with purpose; determination to make heaven your eternal home. It sure beats listening to Sanjaya or watching the Pacers.

The Tomb of Hope
4.8.7

Luke 24:1-2
Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. 2 And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre.

If there is any day in the year that should bring you hope, today is that day. Easter. The day we celebrate, not a crucifix, but an empty tomb. The gruesome sight of three men hanging is long forgotten; now the focus is on a tomb with no body. The dark clouds of Friday have been replaced by cloudless blue sky and sun. Wailing has turned to worship and fear to faith. Jesus has risen and so too, our hope. A Savior on a cross embodies sacrifice, but an empty tomb with no Savior means hope.

The tomb says hope. Hope that regardless of how bad situations in your life may be, like Jesus, they can be resurrected. Whether going through difficult situations in your life, home, marriage or job the tomb of Jesus should be your icon. If He can resurrect from the dead then He can resurrect your situation. So today, celebrate with us in song and worship, not that our lives or situations are perfect, but that we have hope. Whatever your situation, what ever you are going through, leave today and celebrate Easter by having hope that Jesus can make a difference in your life!

Where Do You Go When You're Scared?
3.25.7

Proverbs 18:10
The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous run into it, and is safe.

Thursday night about 1 a.m. lightening began to flash and thunder began to roll, then it happened, a loud crack and I began to count...three, two, one and sure enough here they came, one on one side of the bed another on the other side. They knew when they were scared they would find solace in the security of their parents.

Where do you go when you’re scared? I’ve learned to go to my heavenly Father, Jesus. I find security in Him. Overwhelmed with life, go to Jesus. Lost and don’t know where to go, go to Jesus. Failed and scared, go to Jesus. That’s why I like David’s words above. Facing a giant, scary. Alone in a cave, frightening. Failure with Bathsheba, overwhelming. His solution; run to Jesus, it’s a place of refuge and a safe place.

I don’t know where you are at or what you are gong through, but if lightening is flashing and thunder is rolling, I can tell you what to do. Find Jesus; He’s your strong tower and He can make everything alright! Is there really any other option?

Webkinz Means Access!

3.18.7

Romans 5:2
By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God .

I had never heard of them a couple of weeks ago, for some this devotion will be your introduction. What are they? Webkinz! A little stuffed dog, cat, tiger gorilla, horse, etc. They’re the craze of kids right now. They can’t keep them in the store. They are going for outrageous prices on ebay and parents are driving for miles to get one. Why are kids so crazy about them? One reason; access. With a webkinz, a kid can get on the internet, play games, decorate rooms, talk to other kids, feed them, dress them; the possibilities are endless. Without a webkinz; well your left out. While other kids talk and make plans, you’re left on the outside.

Kind of like heaven. If you have repented of your sins, been baptized in His name and filled by His Spirit; Paul says you have access, but without Him, no access. What do you get with His Spirit? Joy everlasting, peace that passes understanding, power in prayer, healing, grace and hope beyond this life. Without it, well you deal with this worlds pain, sorrow and heartache on your own.

Maybe some of you have never experienced the peace Jesus brings. Get in on the fun and see what your missing. Having access to Jesus is the rage and the benefits are eternal.

My Life is in His Hands
3.11.7

Psalms 139:7-8
Whither shall I flee from thy presence ? 8 If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.

Accorindng to the police report in Hartselle, Alabama the story went something like this: Daniel Brown, 22, wore a ski mask to hide his identity from his grandfather when he staging a robbery in January, but when he burst in, he yelled, "I need your money, and I mean it, Pa-Paw." The plan that was too perfect botched by a slip of the tongue. I laughed as I read the story, but then as I reflected, I pondered the fact that more than likely, in the eyes of God, our attempts to deceive or hide our sins must seem as silly. Remember Adam and Eve? God comes down for His daily commune with them and begins to quiz, anything you need to talk to me about? Adam, with as much guilt as a kid who’s just ate an Oreo he was told not to says, “no, just another day in paradise.” Trying to fool God is about as brilliant as robbing your Papaw.David’s words above were written to be both a comfort and reminder. There is no place that we can go from His presence and all we do is seen by His ever watching eye. Do the right thing, He smiles with pride. Do the wrong and He grimaces with sorrow. I don’t know about you, but that gives me peace, my life is in His hands.

Life Connections Third Anniversary
3.4.7

It all started with a garage sale; that’s our founding point, our heritage. A picket fence, a perennial garage sales pro and the rest is history. Four years later over 80 people call Life Connections their home church and we set on the precipice of constructing a building, built on land we didn't buy. We are living in a miracle. We’ve entertained the presence of God; sometimes weeping, other times rejoicing. We’ve dedicated ourselves to prayer, sacrificed in giving and fasting and shared a wonderful journey. It’s been filled with both spiritual and fun memories a like. We’ve wept with those water baptized, rejoiced with those sprit filled, entertained neighbors with Bagels and Bunnies, had dolphins dance on our screen, drums fall a part and impacted children for four years with Summer Bible camps. We’ve played night golf, walked soaked and danced in Fishers streets, shared cookies, sang to elderly people who didn’t want to hear us, rode hay wagons, pushed wheel barrows, played more games of bocce than I care to count and almost as much corn hole. We’ve laughed together, cried together and grew in faith and as friends. What a ride and the best news is it’s just the beginning! More will soon be joining us, more memories will be made and most importantly, more lives will be baptized in the name of Jesus and impacted and changed by the power of the Holy Spirit. Congratulations to all those who have made Life Connections a book of Acts church and a place for faith, family and friends. To God be all the honor and glory.

Take it a Day at a Time
2.25.7

Isaiah 40:31

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Over the past few weeks I have watched several basketball games and made some observations. First was a game officiated by our own Jeff Bocek, a girls game, it had three referees and was called very closely. Yesterday, I watched Gentry’s game. In it there was a single referee, a little traveling and often the referee looked the other way on some calls. Finally I made it to Risa’s game. Here there were no referees, the girls traveled and they only kept score by quarters. What I observed was this, in each game the participants tried hard, gave it their all, but the expectancies were different. Why? One reason, maturity.

As Christians, our walk of faith is much the same. In the beginning we may not understand all that God desires of us, so he prods and teaches us, but as we grow in understanding and faith, He begins to expect more. I get what Isaiah is trying to say when he says “wait.” Wherever you are in your faith, don’t get discouraged. Everyone must learn to walk before they can run and hopefully one day each of us will sore like the eagles in faith. One suggestion, be patient and take it one day at a time.

What Are You Preaching?
2.18.7

Mark 16:15

And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.

Go into all the world and preach. Those were the words of Jesus to his disciples, go preach. Billy Graham was once asked how to be successful in ministry, in particular, in preaching. Graham’s words have stuck with me throughout my life; “preach always and if necessary use words.” I deliver a sermon and teach a Bible Study weekly, but more importantly, we each preach a sermon every day of our lives; to our spouses, kids, family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and world we live in. The smile on our face, our actions in good times or bad and how we react to every day events all preach a message. A simple question? What are you preaching?

Today, we take time out of our service for two special people; Joseph and Cassandra Landaw. Joe has served Life Connections from it’s inception, doing whatever necessary to preach. In the beginning it was children in our backyard, then Kids Connections and finally, “The Pulse,” our youth department. Whatever there was to do, Joe and Cassandra have responded to the “go” and went. Today they share their vision and burden to the new “go” God has place in their heart; Trinidad and Tobago. Let’s go with them by giving them our best as they have to us.

Five Words
2.11.7

Matthew 12:37
By your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.

Our words hold great power. Our words, or the lack of them, often say a lot about our attitude toward our mates or friends. Our society has neglected to use, or perhaps take seriously, the fact that our words can have a profound affect on our marriages and friendships. As we make plans to make expressions to those we love by giving gifts, cards, candy, flowers or a special dinner; don’t forget to speak some of the most important words in successful marriages and friendships. In fact, make it a lifetime habit. Here are five that work really well:

· Single most important word - God

· Two most important words - Thank You

· Three most important words - I Love You

· Four most important words - Will You Forgive me

· Five most important words - Till Death do us part.

Show the love of God or give the gift of love to someone this week. A spouse, friend, child or an elderly person. It’s as simple as a phone call, card or letter. Let love abound.

The Commoness of Jesus
2.4.7

John 10:6
This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.

I don't think He would be at the game, but He would know all about it. Who? Jesus. How do I know? Because Jesus was common and His message, though it confounded the wise, was as simple as first grade math to the “regular people.” Jesus would relate to the old men setting at the town square whittling on a stick, He would be at the local watering hole listening to the stories, He would be the grocer who knew all the local news; when He spoke, he talked about soil, birds, fishing and weather...the common events of life. Though God in flesh, Jesus related to His world, cared for the concerns of people and understood their fears and apprehensions. Jesus, unlike some religious people of His days, lived in the common persons world, not above it. Long after the game ended, somewhere in a parable He would probably draw a reference to the big pass or defensive stop and correlate to the Kingdom of Heaven or need of salvation. Maybe we could do the same this week as we reflect back on the big game. Share something about your faith, your hope and your Jesus through the big game; that’s what Coach Dungy has done for two weeks. Lets do the same!

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