Pastors Pen 2008

Pastor's Pen 2008

9.28.08

"How do you View Life?"

2 Kings 6:15-16 And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? 16 And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.

How do you view life? Set a glass half full of water in front of you and do you see it half full or half empty. Put a piece of paper with a small dot in the middle, do you see the dot or all the white space. Your success in life has a lot to do with perception. Everyone faces sickness, trials, weariness and discouragement; the difference is how you respond.

The story above is the account of Elisha’s servant who had risen early to find an enemy had surrounded them in the night. His report to Elisha was negative, and full of fear “we’re overwhelmed.” I like how Elisha responded to his servant. I see Elisha sigh, lace up his sandals, grab a cup of coffee, walk out on the front porch, look off into the distance to see the enemy and turn and say, “Lord, show him there’s more with us than with them.” Now that’s a person I would like to run with! No denying there was a problem, but no doubt that God was bigger than the problem. How about you? Do you have a bigger God or bigger problem? Your answer might give you some insight whether your living a joyful and successful life or a life of negativity. Get the right perspective!

Jon Hudson

Lead Pastor

9.21.08

"What are you Creating?"

Luke 15:17-18 17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! 18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee.

They come in all shapes and sizes. They come in different kinds of colors and designs. Each on is uniquely decorated; contemporary, country, southwestern, traditional, old world; each says something about the people that dwell within. Regardless of the cost, size, shape and décor one question is the same, do you have a house or home? There is a big difference.

A house may house people, a home is filled with family and memories.. A house may have a bed, but a home is a place where there is rest. Your home is the lone place where you control the environment. You decide the atmosphere, you set the tone and demeanor and you control its temperament. Bring hatred, gossip, anger, envy and violence into your home and your home will be filled with vileness and deceit. Fill your home with fun, laughter, Gods Word, prayer and love and your home will be a place where love, joy and peace will dwell. The home you create will determine its value and worth. It will determine whether your children want to return often or flee and never return. What are you creating? A house or a home?

Jon Hudson

Lead Pastor

9.14.08

Building Your Foundation

Isaiah 28:16 Therefore thus saith the Lord God , Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation, a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.

I‘m learning about building a building; there’s a lot more to it than I thought. It’s future success has a lot more to do with the ground preparation and foundation than the floor, walls and roof. Forget to strip off the topsoil and build a pad and you’re in trouble. Fail to dig a deep foundation and put the proper elements in place and it will likely crumble. What I’ve gathered is there’s a lot more importance and cost in the foundation than I understood.

What holds true in the physical also holds true in the spiritual. A lot of people look at a person’s works, their worship and their appearance and would say, there’s a great Christian. But what we should realize is that the true Christian isn’t measured by the outward, but the inward; the foundations they’re built on. Jesus is their corner stone, the Word is the strength, faith is their base and prayer is their hope.

Build the foundations of your life and family on the things that will stand the test of time and trials; not on things temporal, but things spiritual.

Jon Hudson

Lead Pastor

9.7.2008

"God is Never Surprised"

Psalms139:7-10 7 Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or 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. 9 If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; 10 Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.

God is never taken back, surprised or caught off guard by the events that happen in the world or our lives. Whether it’s a natural disaster, terrorist attack, divorce or sudden loss, God knew that it was coming our way. That gives me comfort because His Word also says he will not put on us more than we can bare.

Tough week? Overwhelmed? Discouraged by what your walking through? Know this; God has His eye on you, He knows your limits and He has not left or forsaken you. In fact, He must have confidence in you, faith that you will make it through. So take heart, as He told Joshua, be strong and courageous. He sees what you are going through and He is with you, believing in you and pulling for you!

Jon Hudson

Lead Pastor

8.31.2008

"God's Eye is Upon You"

Are You Ready
8.24.08

Matthew 24:44
“Therefore be ye also ready:
for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.”

Often I reflect on the words my father would ask, “Mary, if God were to come today, are you ready?” As a child, I would lay in bed and think of the whole scenario. I would visualize hearing the sound of the trumpet, my family being taken in a moment, and life drastically changing, standing before God. I would visualize myself hearing the words, “Well done thy good and faithful servant.” All of us have experienced the moments when we thought God had come and we were left. The feeling isn’t fun but the moment gives us time to reflect what it would feel like to be left behind.

This past week, as I was overseeing children getting on buses to head home, a few kids were left behind because their transportation notice weren’t clear! Needless to say, their were some concerned parents and frightened kids.

Living life every day as if it could be the day Jesus comes isn’t a bad idea, dad thanks for asking that often. I feel this is a lost question in our society; so I desire passionately to bring it back: “If God were to come today are you ready?”

- Mary Hudson

8.17.08

"In the Twinkling of an Eye"

1 Corinthians 15:52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

I t was almost surreal and definitely breath taking. The last few seconds of the 100-meter butterfly in the Olympics will be something we will see over and over. The time and distance so close that participants, coaches, parents and spectators didn’t know who had won. Finally the board flashes the times and 1/100 of a second separates first place Michael Phelps and second place finisher Milorad Cavic,

As I marveled my mind quickly flashed to the above scripture, “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.” I now have an idea of how fast we’ll go from here to heaven, from pain to paradise and from emptiness to eternity. So quickly that the world won’t see it and you won’t have time to pack or pray. In a moment. I want to stay ready and be ready. The prize is better than a gold medal; eternal life and eternity with Jesus!

8.10.08

Back To School

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

Today is a very important day here at Life Connections. It is the time we take to pray for all the students who will be returning to elementary, junior high, high school or college and encourage them to stand strong in their faith. Their school experiences are likely going to be much different than ours, no longer is Christian faith the norm; now humanism, secularism and many world faiths fill their halls.

So we pray. We pray for God’s protection over their lives, we pray that God will give them courage and strength to stand strong in their faith and we pray that they will feel God’s guidance and love each and every day.

Today each of them will get an anointed cloth to put in their book bags, binders or folders. It will carry our prayers, God’s provision, grace and protection and if we teach them, faith that God is with them through each and every step of every day. There is power in prayer. Today, we pray and we teach it’s virtue.

7.20.08

Count Your Blessings

Romans 8:13-14 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

The Indianapolis Star ran the following piece this week.

“The town of Fishers is getting more national acclaim as a great place to live.

In its latest issue, Money Magazine has again ranked Indiana's largest town among select communities on its annual Best Places to Live list.

In fact, Fishers was honored with a top ten ranking -- tenth out of the 100 best American cities. Fishers is a winning community because of its plentiful jobs, excellent schools and affordable housing.

In a similar evaluation, Forbes Magazine recently declared all of Hamilton County as one of the "best places to raise a family" nationwide.”

As you count your blessing, be reminded that we are blessed to be able to call Hamilton County and Fishers our home. It’s a great place to raise a family and a great place to have a book of Acts church!

7.13.08

Let's Be Led of the Spirit

What governs your life? The answer to that question really determines the direction your life is destined. In reality there can only be one of two governors in your life. You are either controlled by your flesh or led by the Spirit.

Those controlled by their flesh are swayed by the lust of their eyes, the lust of their flesh or the pride of life. Those governed by the God, are led of the Spirit, submitted to God’s Word and directed by Him in prayer. Those are your two options, you’re either influenced by the flesh or empowered by the Spirit. How is it with you?

Check your attitude, spirit and motives; what does it say about who’s leading you. Like Paul, I say, “lets be led of the Spirit” and see what great work God can do through you, your family and Life Connections.

6.29.08

"Freedom"

2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

Freedom, it’s the catch phrase of the hour as we move toward the celebration of our nations independence. We will celebrate with picnics, parades and fireworks the fact that we are blessed to live in a country that allows us to live free, to worship without intimidation and fear and live without constant government intrusion.

As Christians, we should celebrate all the more. Why? Because we not only live in a free country, but also because we live in the freedom of a new life in Christ. No longer bound to the heavy task master of sin, no longer weighed down by the hopelessness of this life; we celebrate a much greater freedom, the freedom of our souls.

Sure the enemy tries to intrude on our freedoms, but his battle is futile. The cross was our Revolution and the grave our Gettysburg. Paul Revere said, “give me liberty or give me death.” The apostle Paul’s words are even better, “where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty.”

Light up the night sky or watch some community fireworks and reflect on the freedoms of our country and the liberty you have that has come from being liberated by His Spirit.

6.22.08

Another Wave of Revival

James 5:16 “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”

“Another Wave of Revival” is just one of the books written at the turn of the century in regard to the deep move of God experienced back then that swept America and the world. I love to read the stories and testimonies of those who experienced the Azusa Street revivals!! The fervency, passion and desire to see a move of God like nothing they had ever experienced before intrigues me. Along with them, I too have the desire to have this passion burning in me and in my church family! This move of the spirit made history. Back in 2000, Time Magazine, recognized the Azusa Street Revival as one of the Top 100 things that have shaped and changed America in the last 100 years. That is incredible, but that is what a real move of the Spirit will do!!!

We have been given a gold mine of opportunity to minister to the city of Fishers! We have been blessed to experience a move of the spirit in our services that some may never experience unless we get passionate enough to reach them and share with them this experience! Let “Another Wave of Revival”, sweep over us in Jesus name and see what God will do! Are you preparing yourself for this move...if so, get ready for the rain!! I’m ready for a down pour!

6.15.08

Father's Day

John 13:15 "For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you.

Today we celebrate fathers, so this weeks devotion is directed to them. If you’re a father you have been given the assignment of leading; leading your family in the home, in worship and example. It is a responsibility given to you by God, but just because you have been given the job does not mean you are doing it. Leadership comes not by title, but by example and actions. Five questions to our men about your leadership:

· Is your example worthy of following?

· Does your life say you’re leading?

· Do you have a vision for your family and does your family know it?

· Does your family see you as passionate about God, His house, His Word and worship?

· Is your family following you?

Leadership is defined by your character, your integrity, your actions and your vision. As we enter into the 21st century I want you to know that there has been a great attack on the role of fathers. Society, families and the church is in need of strong men of character willing to be strong and make the tough decisions. That’s leadership.

Today I’m challenging our men to be men who are passionate about prayer, God’s house, worship, His Word and about leading their families. Have a blessed and happy Father’s Day.

6.8.08

"Summer Focus"

1 Corinthians 4:2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.

Finally we’re entering the summer season; sunshine, flip-flops, bike rides, golf or fishing, cookouts and fireworks. Summer is also a very busy time with lots of family functions, vacations and many other activities that compete for our time and energy.

As we go about the summer I want to encourage you to keep your spiritual focus. There is absolutely nothing wrong with our activities, but don’t allow them to cause you or your family to loose focus of spiritual priorities. This is an easy time for apathy set in, to forget about the importance of church attendance, daily devotion, bible study and God’s divine appointments schedule for us. A good formula for the summer and beyond; schedule activities around God, not God around your activities.

Have a terrific summer filled with fun and laughter, make plenty of memories and make it a priority to come out of the summer stronger in Christ than when you started. To do so, stay faithful and committed.

Only one request, don’t make us look at all of your summer activities and vacation pictures!

6.1.08

"The Helmet of Salvation"

Ephesians 6:16-17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

I looked outside to see Risa riding her scooter and as usual she was going full speed, smiling and laughing, honking her horn and not wearing her helmet. For the umpteenth time I raised the window and yelled, “Risa, if your going to ride the scooter put your helmet on.” She looked at me with same disdain as always, frustrated at my nagging, she made her way up the drive to put it on. Obviously feeling invincible, not a fan of the helmet and not totally understanding why she needs it, she put it on because daddy-o says, “wear it.”

Wearing a helmet is a good idea not only in the natural, but also the spiritual. When Paul says, “put on the helmet of salvation,” he knows that there is a possibility of a spiritual attack on our minds. The battle is not always so much in what we know, but more so in what we think. We know God can do anything, but without the helmet doubt and fear creeps in. We know to be faithful, but without the helmet lethargy settles in. Struggling with doubt, confusion, weakness or weariness? A question, are you wearing your helmet? I can’t tell you everything about the helmet of salvation, can’t tell you when you might need it, but I do know you don’t want to ride the ride of life without it. One suggestion if I may, “put on your helmet of salvation!” The journey will be safer.

5.28.08

"Let Us Not Forget"

Psalms 103:2 Bless the Lord , O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: KJV

A celebration holds many benefits; it causes us to reflect on a significant event from the past, it reminds us of what is important in life and it teaches the next generation about the sacrifices that were made in the past which allows us to live in the blessings of today. Pausing, reflecting and remembering are important in life, it keeps us balanced. In Palms 124:2 David teaches this principle when he writes, “if it had not been for the Lord who was on our side.” What was he doing, reflecting on an event when God came through, reminding them of who to hang their hopes to and making sure that the message gets passed to the next generation.

Memorial Day is that opportunity for us. It is a time to reflect on back important days in our countries, history, to remember those who gave so we may live in freedom and to teach it to our children less they take this freedom for granted. In the midst of all the holiday celebrations, 500 festivities and family picnics let me challenge you to take a few moment to reflect on the privilege we have to live in the United States, to remember those who have made this such a great country to live in and to pass that knowledge to your children and grandchildren. Let us never forget that we are blessed to be called Americans.

5.11.08

Mark 10:13-14

"This is Our Field"

13 One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him. 14 When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples. He said to them, "Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. NLT

Estimates say that there are roughly 7,200 kids under the age of five and nearly 20,000 kids under the age of 18 in the town of Fishers. Most of these kids are growing up in homes that have very little, if any, spiritual or moral values. What morals they do have they get from TV, playing video games and listening to whatever is the latest download in their i-pods. Many don’t have a Bible, can’t tell you a story from the Bible and have never been to church. This is our field.

Jesus said, “suffer the little children to come unto me,” in other words, he has a special place for kids in His heart. And, if that is the case, then so too should Life Connections. Today we focus on our kids. We will sing their music and listen to their preacher and at the end pray with them that they will find their power and strength for life, morals and values, not in a TV program or video game, but in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Jesus, He is the best gift we can give our children and our best hope for the future of the town of Fishers.

5.4.08

"Heroes"

Daniel 11:32 "And by smooth words he will turn to godlessness those who act wickedly toward the covenant, but the people who know their God will display strength and take action. NASB

Heroes, For some they are men who can shoot a basket or throw a ball, for others it may be a statesmen, political or military hero. To some, their hero stood or stands for a social cause, but today we at Life Connections celebrate some of our hero’s; the young people of Life Connections.

They walk into schools where immorality is common, where disrespect is the norm and violence can explode in a moments notice. They listen as friends talk about the latest movie that advocates free sex with cost, violence without justice and drug use without consequences. They see jewelry attached to all sorts of body parts, listen to others who brag about the gore on the latest video game. Yet they stand. They are heroes.

They walk in knowing that being a Christian is not the norm and ridicule may come their way. They stand being the norm but feeling very much less than that. Today, we celebrate our heroes, our youth who stand for Jesus Christ and his righteousness. We are proud of you, keep the faith!

How Big is God in Your Life?

4.27.08

Psalms 147:1 Praise ye the Lord: for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely. KJV

The preacher may make us ponder or laugh and the songs may make use weep or dance. The fellowship may warm our souls, but if God does not enjoy our worship our worship service has failed. The goal of worship is that God is lifted up. He will never be any greater than He is; He knows the beginning from the end, created all things through His imagination and took on flesh so that He could save us, He is great. But, when we choose to worship Him we are making Him bigger in our own lives.

I like Paul’s view of Jesus, “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” Now that’s a big view of God, a magnified view. God wasn’t just Paul’s Savior, but his possibility in any situation. Snake bit, shake it off and give God glory. Jailed, sing praise and watch what God can do. Paul understood worship; it wasn’t based on conditions, but possibility. It wasn’t based on circumstances but the understanding that all things worked together for his good.

In closing I leave you with one question, how big is God in your life?

Amazing Grace
4.20.08

Psalms 84:11
For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD gives grace and glory; No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.

John Newton put it this way:

Amazing grace, How sweet the sound, That saved a wretch like me, I once was lost, But now I’m found, Was blind but now I see.

Israel Haughton sings it in a more contemporary way:

Let the redeemed of the Lord rise up

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so

I am redeemed, I am redeemed, I am redeemed.

No matter how we sing it, may we never forget that we are saved, kept and our hope is in His grace and mercy. I ran across this little saying a few years ago and it has stuck with me:

Grace: God giving us what we don’t deserve.

Mercy: God not giving us what we deserve.

No matter what talents, ability and gifts God has given us, no matter how Holy or righteous we try to live, there is one thing that keeps us, His grace. Live in it.

Praise-Will Bring You Out

4.6.08

2 Corinthians 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. NASB

They’re in the deepest and darkest part of prison, bound hand and feet and they’ve been beaten. The plan of the adversary had worked perfectly. He had Paul and Silas right where he wanted them; out of sight and out of commission. Mission accomplished. Except for one thing, he forgot to gag their mouths. With that the rest of the story is history. With their words they changed their situation. With an opportunity to be negative and defeated, they chose to keep positive and sing praises. The result; change of circumstances.

What the adversary fears most is your praise. He can mess with your finances, bring sickness to your body and manipulate your family, but he can’t stop your praise. He will try to make you too weary to praise, too discouraged to praise, but he can’t stop you from worshipping, only you can do that when you let circumstances control you. Let me encourage someone today to use your most powerful weapon against your current dilemma, Praise. It will bring you out!

Resurrection

3.23.2008

Mark 15:48 We hear Him say, I will destroy this temple made with hands, and in three days I build another made without hands.

Twenty-four, that’s all it will take. A week earlier He had paraded in on palm branches and praise. Soon, the very ones who had been cheering will be jeering. It was a short road from celebration to crucifixion. What starts with a prayer ends on a cross. As Jesus prays in the garden, He knew twenty four hours from now it will be over. That’s why He prays, “if it be possible, let this cup pass from me,” that’s why He says from the cross, “it is finished,” He knows. But there is something else He knows, he had already proclaimed, “tear down this temple and three days I’ll raise it.” Not only is it a short journey from the garden to the cross, but its also a short journey from the cross to the Resurrection. Three days and He is risen, life is different; sin and death have lost their power, Jesus reigns, no longer does sin control this world, but His blood.

Resurrection, a time to celebrate that our life can be changed in just a moment by the work of Jesus. When we celebrate Easter, we celebrate a risen Savior, but more, the victory He brings to our own lives and families. Live in the power of His Resurrection.

Celebrate King Jesus
3.16.2008

Revelation 12:12-13

On the next day a great multitude who had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took the branches of palm trees, and went out to meet Him, and began to cry out, Hosanna, blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel.

For one amazing day He was a celebrity. The music was festive, there was dancing in the streets, palms were waved and laid in the street and the disciples were honored to be seen with Jesus. Palm Sunday; the day Jesus was celebrated. Who could have imagined in seven short days the applause would be traded for the words, “crucify Him.” To suggest it would bring laughter and mockery. The crowd was energized, filled with those He had healed and hopes of others. It was popular to be seen with Jesus, but how quickly it would change. An accusation, a fraudulent trial and suddenly Jesus is alone, the worshippers are gone. No time to celebrate.

Thankfully we know the rest of the story. We don’t look to seven days later, but ten. An empty tomb, a resurrected savior and victory over sin forever settled. Today we raise our palms, not because our circumstances are perfect, but because we know the outcome. Jesus lives! We can forever raise our hands and praise. Join with me today and every day and celebrate the victorious King Jesus!

Looking Forward
3.9.2008

1 Chronicles 15:29

And it happened when the ark of the covenant of the Lord came to the city of David, that Michal the daughter of Saul looked out of the window, and saw King David leaping and making merry; and she despised him in her heart.

Celebrating is important. The Bible is full of examples of God’s people celebrating victories that came through the power of God. The Passover, still celebrated today, reminds us of how God made a way when the Israelites chances of a life change were slim. Easter is a celebration of Gods victory over the grave. But my favorite celebration is David’s. When the Ark of the Covenant is brought to Jerusalem we find David celebrating with all his might; dancing in the streets. What was he celebrating? Might I suggest he was celebrating both the past and the future. He was recalling what God had done for his nation, but also celebrating what he knew God was going to do in the future. David was a person who looked forward.

Today, Life Connections celebrates its fourth anniversary. We reflect back on the year that just finished; the moments when God’s presence came into our services, the baptisms, anointing of our ground, the worship and the fun, it’s been a good year. But today we also celebrate what God is going to do in the future; more baptisms, more moves of His Spirit and more memories that we will make. We look forward!

As we reflect, we can look forward with excitement and expectancy. Knowing what God has done in the past should cause us to celebrate our future. I’m looking forward!

A Matter of Prospective
3.2.8

Philippians 4:4
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!

We experienced the extremes of emotions yesterday. Both kids played their final basketball games for the year. Two games, two very different results. First was Risa’s. Her team dominated their opponent. The came out of the gate hard and fast and never let up. Two hours later, it was Gentry's turn. His was a nail biter, the game going down to the last seconds. His team missed three shots in the last seconds that would have won the game, we left dejected and defeated.

Our experience yesterday mirrors the various spirits that walk into our church each week. Some walk in on mountain top highs, their week has been full of success stories and blessings. Others walk in quite differently, their week has been stress filled and difficult.

The difference though, is this. Once we get in here our focus changes. No longer are some winners and others losers. We are all winners. The meaningless events of this life shrink when compared to the victory that comes through the cross. In case you’ve forgot or failed to read the end of the book. We win. Those who have placed their life in Christ will one day be called home to live with Him in victory. No pain, no suffering, no sickness, no sorrow and no death. Jesus has conquered it all and we will celebrate over eternity some day, and that is why we worship. Let’s rejoice in the Lord today!

The Storm

2.24.08

Matthew 8:24

And behold, there arose a great storm in the sea, so that the boat

was covered with the waves; but He Himself was asleep. NASB

It was evident that the storm had came suddenly, leaving travelers to deal with wind, snow and ice. Cars, trucks and semi’s were scattered along the highway like a child’s matchbox car collection. As we drove through the piles of cars, I wondered if people either weren’t prepared for the storm or had disregarded the warnings. Regardless of what the reason, for many their day had turned to chaos.

Storms hit our lives as well. Sometimes we have time to prepare. Sometimes there are warning signs while other times we fail to heed the warnings. What I know is that storms show no respect for education, wealth or social status. They come when they want, stay as long as they desire and are unconcerned about the damage they leave in their wake. Storms brings perspective to life. They help us see what is important, they change our attitudes and direction of our lives and eventually let up and give us a reprieve.

Monday, we eventually drove through the storm and our journey continued. We made it home. Let me encourage you, if you’re going through a storm today, Jesus is with you, hang on. The winds will cease, the sun will shine and you too will make it home.

The Innocence of a Child

2.17.08

Matthew 18:2-4

And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

It was one of those moments that will forever leave an impression on my heart. The innocence of children intrigues me! To be like them, think like them, or have the concepts they have! I want that more in my life! Jesus requires that of us according to Matthew 18. When was the last time you took the time to get on your knees and look eye to eye with one of these profound beautiful children and get engrossed in a conversation with them? Try it, if it’s been a while!

Chase Lewey did this for me in Kids Connection a few weeks ago! I was getting the kids excited about the New Year and the possibility of each of them getting refilled or filled for the first time with the Holy Spirit! I had called the kids to the front who wanted the Holy Spirit so that Patty and I could pray for them! As they were making their way to the front I noticed Chase stood back with his hand raised. Eagerly anticipating what he may have to say, I gave him the opportunity to make his request known! He asked, “Would it be okay if I wait until next year to pray for the Holy Ghost, there are some things I need to take care of?” Wow!! I was so intrigued with his honesty, with his sincerity. It impressed me! Yes, Chase its not only okay with me, but its okay with God too!God is impressed with innocence too!

When you talk to God, He’s concerned about what you are really dealing with. He wants to take care of you, you are His child! Withhold nothing back! Tell him exactly what is on your heart! Thank you Chase for reminding me again to be honest and innocent before God!! It feels so good to know that He wants us to be this way; we just need a gentle reminder every once in a while!

Mary Hudson

Get Involved

2.10.08

Exodus 36:1

"Now Bezalel and Oholiab, and every skillful person in whom the Lord has put skill and understanding to know how to perform all the work in the construction of the sanctuary, shall perform in accordance with all that the Lord has commanded." NASB

Bezalel, Oholiab and skillful people were blessed with abilities and understanding for a purpose; to build a sanctuary for God. When Moses received instruction on a mountain it was without comprehension of how to accomplish the work. Unbeknownst to Moses, God had surrounded him with men who were blessed with talents and wisdom. God blessed them, not just so that they might profit, but so they could help build the sanctuary. In essence, Moses cast God’s vision, Bezalel, Oholiab and skilled people brought it to life. This is God’s formula for success.

Might I suggest, that getting involved in the Kingdom of God can be one of the most rewarding and fulfilling things you do in your life. No doubt Bezalel and Oholiab felt this on completion of the sanctuary. Being a part of something that helps bring someone to a relationship with God or salvation is one of the most satisfying experience a person can have. Today we invite you to get involved in something that brings immediate satisfaction and eternal value.

Take God at His Word

1.13.08

Psalms 119:162

I rejoice at Thy word, As one who finds great spoil.

Wanted. Someone to take God at His Word in 2008. Why? At His Word light and land appeared. At His Word enemies were scattered. At His Word water transformed into wine. At His Word demons cowered. At His Word disease retreated, blindness disappeared and death surrendered.

Do you want to have a great year? Take God at His Word! Read it, live it, obey it and then watch as it transforms your own life. God’s Word brings strength, peace and power. It offers resolution, solution, direction and vision. Yet the best news, it brings hope for eternal salvation.

The old hymn says it well, “tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, just to take Him at His Word.” Join with me today and make a commitment this year to put Bible reading at the top of your daily priorities!

Walk in Faith in 2008

1-6-08

Psalms 139:2-3

Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. 3 Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.

We are often surprised by life’s dealings, but God never is. That is important to know as you go about your day. While we have no idea what will happen in five minutes, five days or five years, God does, He is never caught off guard.

David’s words describing God’s ever watching eye are comforting. There is nothing we go through or challenge we face that God is not aware. When tragedies visit Job, God is not on vacation. When the three Hebrew children stand before a fiery furnace, God is not asleep. He is very much aware. So why the tragedy, why the difficulty? To teach us to trust. To give us strength for our future. To teach us that He will never leave us or forsake us.

Who sent the disciples into the storm? Jesus. Who arrived just at the right time? Jesus. While we may not know where life’s journey will take us in 2008, be confident of this, He will be there with us. Determine to walk in faith in 2008, God is for us and nothing that comes our way surprises Him!

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