Isaiah 43:19a Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?
With the entrance of the New Year, it reminds me of when I was a kid at school. If I messed up my paper the teacher would give me a new piece of paper. What a relief it was. I knew I had messed up, knew that the mistakes were beyond erasing, and so, when the teacher put the new piece of paper in front of me I felt a new sense of hope. I could start over, hopefully not make the same mistakes and produce what I had really imagined in the first place. There is nothing like getting a second chance!
As we enter the New Year I hope it brings new dreams and hopefully new resolve. For some it may be to take on a new challenge, loose some weight or make a change in your personal life, whatever it might be, the New Year is a great time to get a fresh start. I hope your list includes some spiritual commitments. Building a more committed and faithful walk with God. I would love to see every person at Life Connections resolve to being more committed to being at both our Sunday and Wednesday services along with our monthly prayer meetings. I hope many will become more committed to personal devotional times and to making our homes more spiritual. Lets take this New Year and create something beautiful on the new piece of paper God has given us.
Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow
12.19.10
Isaiah 1:18a
“Come now, and let us reason together,
"Says the LORD, though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow; …
Snow. I know, I know, some of you hate it, but I enjoy it. One of the reasons that I love living in central Indiana is that we get to experience all four seasons, including winter. You may not realize it, but snow levels the playing field; it takes an unattended yard and well-manicured lawn and makes them the same. Look outside after a fresh snow and every yard has the same crystal white snow shimmering in the sun. Before plows and shovels come along, it is one of the most beautiful sights you’ll ever see.
The Lord said in the book of Isaiah, “though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow.” What an awesome comparison. Imagine if you’re yard had never been landscaped and had lots of dandelions in it and one morning you walked out and it looked like a home on the cover of Home and Garden. In essence that’s what the Lord is saying, one day your life looks pathetic, you’ve neglected it and in a moments time, Gods blood covers it and makes it look perfect; white as snow. I’m thankful for the snow, it is a constant reminder of how God takes my imperfect life and through His blood makes my life something special. When it comes to my life, “let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.”
Why Weather Forecasters Didn't Write the Bible
12.12.10
Matthew 7:8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds;
and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
On Sunday it began. The tracking of what was going to be a major snowstorm in central Indiana. By Wednesday and Thursday there were four tracks, each bringing a major storm to central Indiana, but then on Friday the forecast had changed, the storm had moved north and central Indiana now would get just a few inches of snow. As I write its raining and by the time you read this we will actually know if it snowed and how much.
I’m glad that weather forecasters didn’t write the Bible; can you imagine what the story might sound like? Jesus might do a miracle today, if the conditions are right, the sun is at the right angle and the needy person has done just the right thing, then Jesus will come by to meet your need. Unfortunately, we often think the same way, if we pray the right prayer, spend enough time in devotion or come to church enough times then Jesus might answer our prayers. Our God’s ability to hear and answer our prayer is not based on some projected theology nor is he controlled by the simplicity of our behavior. Do you have a need today? Faith that God is able is enough. No need for a spiritual forecaster to tell you if you qualify!
Live from Bethlehem
12.5.10
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.
Thanks for coming and being a part of our Kids Connection Christmas Program, “Live from Bethlehem.” While most of us participate in the secular parts of Christmas, we must not allow Jesus and the story of Christmas to be replaced with the likes of Santa, Frosty and Black Friday, I am thankful that our kids are participating in “Live from Bethlehem” and that your family has chose to come and watch our program. Our hope is that you will once again reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
In Europe there are very few people that know the meaning of Christmas, they celebrate it, but only as a secular event. We cannot allow this to happen in the United States. We must talk about the meaning, teach it to children, our families and let those we work with and meet on the streets know about the birth of our Savior, Jesus. What’s one of the simplest ways, simply say, “Merry Christmas.” In fact, Merry Christmas and thanks for coming to “Live from Bethlehem.”
Thanksgiving Reflection 11.21.10
Psalms 139:14 I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well.
As I approached the Thanksgiving Holiday I began to think, “In what ways am I most blessed?” While the list could be quite extensive, I narrowed it down to five basic ideas that demonstrate the blessing of the Lord. They are as follows:
A meaningful relationship with the Lord Jesus enhanced by baptisms in water and Spirit.
A roof over my head that protects me from the elements.
The blessing of always having good food to eat (more than I need).
Health in my body.
Family and/or good friends including those I have met through Life Connections.
While you may not have everything you want, if God has blessed you with the above, you are living a blessed life and have much to be thankful for. Take time this week and other times as well to give thanks for these and many more blessings that the Lord has graciously provided. From our family to yours, have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving!
Just a Little More
11.14.10
Psalms 1:3 He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season , And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers.
As I wrote a few weeks ago I set in front of my window and admired the splash of color that fall had brought; bright hews of reds, oranges and yellows. Today as I look out that same window those same trees are now barren with the rare exception of a leaf or two. The combination of sun, wind and an occasional rain shower has taken its toll; now only the strong remain. What caused some leaves to have the strength to remain attached? A little more attached to the water source, a little more wind endurance or maybe a little more sunshine. Whatever the reason, a few leaves had a little more strength than the others and remain.
Life is much like that of a leaf. What allows some to endure the seasons of life? What allows them to remain attached to God when others fall away? The formula is much the same as we see in a leaf, a little more attached to the life source. They prayer a little more, spend a little more time in the Word of God and are just a little more faithful to His house. Those are the things that give us strength for the hard times. Be a person that remains, just do a little more!
God's On Top of Everything!
11.7.10
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “
plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
How many books do you see at your local bookstore that has titles like these: “How to Be Negative in 12 Easy Steps, “The ABC’s to Pessimism” or “See You at the Bottom?” None! There is absolutely no need to be taught how to be pessimistic, negative or discouraged. It’s a built in ability. It takes absolutely no talent to be pessimistic, negative or discouraging.Understanding this, we must conclude that we must choose to be people that are encouraging and positive. We must live with faith, decide to see the sun instead of the shadows and make lemonade when life hands us lemons.
One of my favorite sermons has the title that has become one of my life motto’s, “God’s on Top of Everything!” I often sign letters, e-mails and even text with that phrase. Why? Because I simply have chosen to believe that no matter what has happened, what is going on, whether good or bad… that God is on top of every situation. How are you living? What does your attitude, actions and beliefs say about you? Are you living like God is on top of everything? By the way, just in case you didn’t know, God IS on top of everything!!!
The Untamable Wind
10.31.10
John 3:8 The wind blows (breathes) where it wills;
and though you hear its sound, yet you neither
know where it comes from nor where it is going.
So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.
Wind: a force that cannot be harnessed. You can put up a barrier to defuse it. You can manipulate its power and use it, but you cannot control it. It can be as gentle as a breeze or as strong as a hurricane. It blows when, where and how it wants too. Its force can snap a tree in seconds, cause calm waters to become so turbulent that no ship can survive or it can be as calm as a gentle caress of a hand on a face.
When authors wanted to describe the moving of the Holy Spirit the best word they could find was wind. John in the above text says, “it blows where it wills.” Luke in the book of Acts describes the move of the Spirit “as a mighty wind.” Of all the words the authors could have chose, why did they choose wind? It’s because it describes the moving of the Spirit in its best terms; unpredictable, uncontrollable, sovereign, variable and untamable. Those who want to manipulate and market the Spirit on their terms and timetable are as fraudulent as someone who tells you they can make the wind blow. The move of the Spirit is and must always be an authentic and sovereign act of God. Lets pray that God will let the wind blow on our homes and lives.
Dangerous Roads
10.24.10
Genesis 24:48 and I bowed down and worshiped the LORD. I praised the LORD,
the God of my master Abraham, who had led me on the right road …
According to the BBC, the world's most dangerous road is a 50-mile stretch of winding mountain road, which has many cliff hugging curves that drop three miles to the sea below. It’s found in La Paz, Bolivia, where reportedly 200 people a year die. The road is about 10 feet wide, has no railing, involves frequent confrontations with wide-load vehicles and is known for bad Andes Mountain storms, which sometimes wash away parts of the road.
My question, and probably yours as well, is why would anyone travel the road or why wouldn’t’ someone begin to install guardrails and warning signs of on coming wide loads and potential washouts? But unfortunately, year after year repairs are not made, signs are never installed and people travel and lose their lives on the road.
Unfortunately the road in Bolivia is comparative to the road many choose in their life. There is a difference though between the two roads. On the road of life there is a warning to those who choose to travel the way of the world; the Bible. It tells of peril and danger and suggests another road, the road that will lead to eternal life. A life in Christ… the best road!
The Simplicity of Faith
10.17.10 By Mary Hudson
Matthew 17:20 "There is no limit to the power of God that is worked
through faith. Jesus says that even the smallest amount of faith
is enough to "move mountains"--to achieve that from any
normal human perspective is impossible."
The beauty of simplicity. It intrigues me. Simple faith is what I am referring to. It doesn't take much for great things to happen! By simply having a little bit of faith...a mountain, a huge, gigantic, tall and wide mountain, stretching miles in length and height, can be moved. Sounds too simple right? For someone else maybe, but not me? I believe it should be for you and everyone, to live with simple faith. We weren't created to change the world, our circumstances, or anyone else's but we were created to be beings of faith, so that He that lives in us can allow the miraculous to happen through us. He's the world changer living in us, allowing us to be the vessel he can use to perform the miraculous all around us. So what do you need today? What seems so huge, so big and so wide for you? God waits for us, nudging us, prompting us by subtle reminders, asking you to give Him a try... because even if it's not answered the way you may expect, He has an answer that in the whole scheme of things will be better than you imagined. Trust Him... and see the miraculous! He wants it to happen more than you want the miracle!! Believe me, He loves us that much!
Be Your Own Leaf
10.10.10
I love this time of year when the most beautiful colors began to explode from the trees in central Indiana. Just a few weeks ago everything was green, or in the case of this year brown, but today as I sit and look out my window I see a hue of colors. As I enjoyed the view it occurred to me that all the leaves are called leaves, profound I know, but though they are all leaves they are in different shapes and at some point in color. What makes the difference is the variety of trees, the location of the tree, the amount of moisture, sunlight and numerous other factors. Yet blended together they give us a brilliance of colors that are breath taking.
T.F Tenney said, “Jesus prayed for unity in John 17, not uniformity. Uniformity is sameness without distinction; Unity is oneness without division.” In the book of Acts church there was unity yet great diversity. What will make Life Connections a successful and visionary church is when we can appreciate that we all have one thing in common, a life that lives repentant and has been water and Spirit baptized and yet we can appreciate the differences that makes us unique and special. In other words, be your own leaf!
The Close of the Month of the Family
9.29.10
Joshua 24:15b ...as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord
Today we will close our month of the family with communion. It marks the completion of what has been a tremendous month. I feel that this year’s month of the home and family has probably been one of the best times that we have had here at LC.
I have been so encouraged by the tremendous moves of the Spirit we have experienced the past couple of weeks. It speaks of your desire to seek God and for a move of His Spirit. Thanks to the many people who took time to fast with us this past week, we look forward to great things happening in your homes and lives in the near future. I also want to say thank you to everyone who attended our special sessions. I hope you found them beneficial and in some way you were able to incorporate some of the principles into your lives and homes.
Finally, thanks to everyone who came out to our annual Fall Fest and Chili Cook-off. Congratulations to our top Chili chef this year, Jeff Garver along with our runner ups, Krissy Cole and Yvonne Ronk. Also congratulations goes out to our young marrieds who won the 100 Grand Volleyball Challenge. All in all, it was a fun time and a great time of fellowship. We are so glad that all of you are a part of the LC family.
Life Fast 3
9.19.10
Matthew 6:17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face.
This week marks our third and final Life Fast for the year. The Life Connections family takes time to participate in what many might feel is an out of date or obsolete concept. Fasting is still valuable, important and effective because it helps our spiritual walk in three distinct ways. First it humbles our flesh. Food is the temptation used by Satan both in the garden and in the temptations of Jesus. When we deny ourselves food, we show Satan the power we have over our flesh and his schemes. Second, when we fast we show God that we are sincere in our desire to walk with Him and please Him. There is no greater way to get the attention of God than to humble yourself in prayer and fasting. Thirdly, when you add fasting to your prayers it is like adding fuel to a fire. It ignites your faith, brings anointing and takes you to another level in the Spirit.
Interested in taking your spiritual man, your flesh or your family to the next level? Fast! It is one of the most powerful and effective tools that God has given to you as a child of God. Take the challenge! Be a part of the last Life Fast in 2010.
Just Follow the Instructions
9.12.10
Deuteronomy 5:29 Oh, that they had such a heart in them always to fear Me
and keep all My commandments, that it might go well
with them and with their children forever.
Just follow the instructions. It seems pretty simple, but how many times have the instructions been the last thing you looked at. Be a kitchen appliance, a dvd player or a computer, how often have you tried to assemble it yourself only to get frustrated. As a last resort you dug through the box and found the instructions and wala! Within a few minutes what you couldn’t assemble or wouldn’t’ work was working.
Moses gives us one those moments. Just follow the instructions and “it will go well with you and with your children forever.” Wow! Did you catch that? Follow the instructions and it will go well for you and your children forever! It seems rather simple but how many times do we try to go it alone; forsake prayer, skip reading His Word and trusting our abilities over His. We go along frustrated for days, weeks and even months and finally when all else has failed we turn toward Him and suddenly what was so complicated becomes easy. Struggling with life? Things seem complicated? When’s the last time you looked at life’s instruction manual? Give it a try. You might find that it makes not only your own life better, but also your families and future.
A Little Explanation
9.5.10
Matthew 5:14 "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.
Parking my car a few weeks ago, I parked in front of a broken meter. In an attempt to protect myself against a ticket I decided to take a picture of the broken meter. As I was taking the picture I heard someone saying, “sir, sir, what are you doing.” I turned to see an older lady, hands on her hips, looking at me with disdain. I said, “Excuse me.” She said, “what are you doing taking a picture of that meter,” as if somehow she was the meter police. I explained to her that the meter was broken and I wanted to make sure that I had evidence in case I got a ticket. Immediately her expression changed as she said, “that is absolutely brilliant.” It’s amazing what a little understanding can accomplish. I walked away both amused and somewhat thankful that I had gained her approval.
I mention the story because many times people are confused by the lives they don’t understand. When they are a person or family disciplined and faithful to Christ, the first reaction is to question or critique there actions, but with a little explanation often their hearts soften and their understanding is enlightened. Keep the faith; be the light in a dark world!
As For My House
8.29.10
Joshua 24:15 But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you,
then choose for yourselves…But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD."
Joshua understood the above verse so well as he stood and spoke to Israel for the last time. For 40 years he had led the nation by example, word and deed. Now as he prepares to exit the stage of life he realizes he cannot force the next generation of Israelites to serve God, he can only instruct, and encourage. In the end as he speaks the words “as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” he realizes that the only people he can really impact are those in his own household.
What will be the values, vision and beliefs of the next generation of the (Fill in Your Family Name) family? There is not a more important question to ask your self than that question. The direction of your family will not necessarily be predicated on what is taught in a classroom, what is mandated by our government or even to some extent, by what is taught here at Life Connections on Sunday. The values, vision and beliefs of the next generation in your family will largely be determined by what is taught and lived out in your home and by the things you make a priority in your home and life. What about you and your house? Make September and the “Month of the Home and Family” a priority.
Turning Trials to Triumphs!
8.22.10
I John 5:4 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world;
and this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith.
Your trial becomes your triumph! What you are going through today will either become your stumbling or stepping stone. We romanticize Joshua marching around the walls of Jericho, David defeating the giant and the Hebrew boys standing before a fiery furnace, but the walking around the walls was a test of endurance, the giant was a haunting reminder of a situation that just wouldn’t go away and the fiery furnace a true test of faith. These stories and more that we look at as great victories, are the testimonies of people who simply pressed on when the trial of their life came. We would make them super heroes, but in actuality, they were simply people who chose to believe in God instead of the circumstance.
Today great stories of faith are still being written. The single parent raising children, the man standing strong, waiting for the job opportunity to open, the spouse hanging on to the marriage when many would throw in the towel; all people with an opportunity to allow the trial to become a triumph. Going through a trail or test. Hang on; Jesus is on your side and he always triumphs!
Re-Connect
8.15.10
Hebrew 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is;
but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Re-connect. Why do I need too? Well, let me ask. Has your walk with God been slipping lately? Re-Connect. When is the last time you have been lost in the Spirit? Re-Connect. Are you still having regular time with God in prayer or His Word? Re-Connect. Is your attitude and spirit been negative? Re-Connect? When is the last time you had an evening of devotion with your family or spouse? Re-Connect. Is your church attendance spotty at best? Re-Connect. Have you lost the awe for the Almighty? Re-Connect? Do you still long for God’s presence? Re-Connect.
I sense there are those who have unplugged from a deep and relevant walk with God and are simply going through the motions. Faithfulness to the house of God is optional, commitments to prayer are optional and hunger for God’s presence is sparse; all signs of being disconnected? What’s the answer? Re-Connect. Plug back into the power of God, re-connect your life to a walk in the spirit and your family to a life that centers around Him and not the things of this world. Re-Connect!
Our Mission
7.25.10
I Corinthians 3:6 I planted, Apollos watered,
but God all the while was making it grow and He gave the increase. (AMP)
Our mission is to take the gospel to our world. Our world is Fishers, Indiana. Over the past five years many media sources has rated Fishers as one of the top places to live in the United States. To think that God has given us the responsibility of bringing the gospel to people who are moving here from around the United States to be a part of this community is an awesome honor and overwhelming thought. Fishers, with a population of nearly seventy thousand, a median age of 28 and over 18,000 school age kids is ripe with potential. I say we have a mission. If God will birth a burden and passion in some of us and send others to help along the way, there is no telling how we can impact, not only Fishers, but also the world.
This week is an opportunity. Over 75 kids will join us for Rock-It VBS. Will you be a part? Some have already got on board: making sets, helping with crafts and being team leaders. We could still use your help. For those who can’t come and be a part, pray. Pray that God will use us to plant a seed to see a harvest, to impact our world. It’s our mission.
Bi-Polar Christians
7.18.10
Ephesians 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro,
and carried about with every wind of doctrine.
News Flash! Bi-polar Christianity is at an all time high! Contracted by Simon Peter during the Passion Week of Jesus, it has continued for generations and in recent years returned with vengeance. What is bi-polar Christianity? It is people who are ever swinging from committed to casual; for a few weeks they are actively involved white hot Christians, faithful to church, worship, bible reading and prayer, only to disappear from the scene for days, weeks or sometimes even months. At this time there is only one cure known to this disease, a close encounter with Jesus.
Be on the look out for those with this situation! It is highly contagious and difficult to contain. Sometimes known as yo-yo disease, it can be spotted only by its symptoms; critical spirit, negativism and doubt.
There is a protective antidote for this disease; a daily walk with God with ample time spent in His Word and prayer. Stay alert and do all you can to avoid being a bi-polar Christian!
What's Hidden in Your Heart?
7.11.10
Psalms 119:11
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
What’s hidden in your heart? David said, “thy word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee.” David understood to survive in the world he lived in that the most important thing that he needed was for God’s Word to be in his heart.
How many other things do we often hide in our hearts; hurts, anger, lust, pride, gossip; just to name a few. Those things weigh us down, short circuit our spiritual life and cause us to drift away from God and His power.
A simple question this morning; are you hiding God’s Word in your heart? Is God’s Word a part of your daily life? Do you take time to read a few verses or a chapter in your day? Open the book, read one of the Proverbs or read the red words of Jesus. Do something so God’s Word gets deep in your heart! Hide God’s Word in your heart and see how over a period of time it blossoms in your life and gives you strength in times of test and trials.
Live Free
7.4.2010
Galatians 5:1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; thereforekeep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.
”Freedom. Once a year we pause to celebrate our country’s freedom from British rule. Brave men decided that it would be better to fight to live free than to live under the British burden and no freedom. Its funny how the things our forefathers fought to free us from have once again encumbered us. Yet later this evening we will listen to patriotic music and watch fireworks fill the air and celebrate a freedom that is much less than what they had envisioned.
What is true of our country is also true to many spiritually. How many people come into a Sunday service, celebrate freedom from sin, sing songs of victory and amen sermons that speak of overcoming, but often we walk away living well beneath the freedom that Christ had in mind for us.
Let this Fourth of July be a reminder that Jesus set you free from every thing that tries to weigh us down. Start living in the freedom of the cross and blood today! There is no freedom like the freedom that comes in Jesus!
New Generations, New Methods but Same Message
6.13.10
Isaiah43:19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
This week we transitioned into the next phase of life with our kids, Risa our daughter joined the millions of teens with a cell phone. It took a little work on dad, but eventually I caved and now she is a proud owner of a phone. What amazed me was how quickly she got connected to others around her. Within a few minutes she was texting friends and a few hours later she had plans made for the week. What had my head spinning was how my little girl had went from what I thought was a social recluse to a sudden socialite. How did it happen? Where did it come from? Needless to say, I was blindsided by this quick transformation. What I concluded was simply this; she needed a way to communicate, to be in touch with her generation. Old dad thought she could do it the way of a phone, somewhere along the line I missed the memo that said, “kids only text today.” Who knew!
This got me thinking, what if the church has missed in the same way. Trying to communicate through old methods and feeling left on the outside. We must make sure that we are in touch with how our world works in this day. Text me if you have any ideas, I’m trying to keep up with this new generation thing!
Just Be Yourself! 6.6.10
Deuteronomy 7:6 For you are a holy people to the LORD your God;
the LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His own possession
out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth
* This week's article is written by our daughter Risa. We hope you are blessed and inspired by her thought.
This past week my mom and I were shopping and we bought a game called Family Talk. Each night at the table we read one of the questions and we all answer the question. Last night while we were eating dinner the family talk card said, “If you could be someone famous who would you choose?” We each took turns but no one could think of anyone we would rather be, so we re-asked the question, “If you could be someone else, who would you be?” Again no one could think of anyone they would rather be than themselves. It left me thinking that God made you special; so don’t try to be someone else, just be yourself!
Risa Hudson
In Memory
5.29.10
Deuteronomy 5:16 Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you,
so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
Young men and women with aspirations to defend their country head off to war. Each year thousands get promoted to different branches of the service. They live out their dreams of serving their country, for some never to return home again. For them, we reflect today. These are and were noble men and women with courage who were not afraid to die so that we could enjoy our freedom here in America. Fallen soldiers, sons, husbands, fathers, mothers, daughters, friends; courageous soldiers of war, we honor you today. America would not experience freedom if it were not for you!
Reflecting, none of us would be experiencing the freedom we have spiritually if it were not for Jesus Christ; so willing was he to lay down his life, and die so that we might be free!
On this Memorial Day take time to Honor men and women who have either passed on or who are still among us. Take time to thank them for giving their life so that we might experience our freedom. And then, today, take time to thank God for giving us the honor to serve him, thank Him for giving His life so that we might be free. It’s a freedom worth thanking Him for!
Mary Hudson
Your Biggest Fan 5.23.10
She was sweet and innocent. Her small voice still echoes in my mind. Her question will be one I will never forget. I was scrubbing away in the bathroom, doing my duty as a housewife, when she came in and asked me, “Do you need a watcher?” It threw me off. I didn’t understand her question so I asked her to repeat it. “Do you need a watcher, you know someone to watch you mommy?” I smiled; of course I welcomed a watcher, especially her cute little face.
We all have a very qualified watcher, keeping close tabs on our life, pulling for us, wanting to make our choices for us but being the gentlemen that He is, He allows us to make our own choices. Life gives us so many options. Optimism or Pessimism, positive or negative, laughing or crying, faithful or faithless, love or hate, bitter or sweet, lazy or motivated…all of these choices are ours! Each of these will send us in opposite directions depending on our choice. We have a loving God who watches us carefully. He is our biggest “fan”. He is pulling for us to make the right decisions every day. I’m so glad He has the power to persuade us to make the right choice. When He filled us with his spirit, we were given the hope that every decision we make can have a great beginning to opening some wonderful opportunities in life. Aren’t you glad you have a watcher you can depend on!! He’s your biggest fan!
Mary Hudson
The Key to Blessings 5.2.10
Psalms 84:12 O Lord of hosts, how blessed is the man who trusts in You!
I ran across this quote this week and it rang so true to me that I felt I needed to share it with you all today. It simply said, “If I want to be blessed, I must be committed to doing the things that God is committed to blessing.” A pretty simple principle. God’s promises are not to bless what we do, but to bless those who will do what he ask in His Word.
Stand up in the face of the enemy and God will show up in the fire, build an altar in the face of an enemy and God will confirm himself; go it alone and you’ll find yourself in the belly of a whale. God is committed to His Word, not your whims.
David gave us the key to blessings in his very first Psalm, 1 Blessed is the man that walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful. 2But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law does he meditate day and night. 3 …and whatsoever he does shall prosper.
Want to be blessed? Walk according to the Word and watch His blessings fall on your life and home.
A Good Name 4.25.10
Eccclesiastes 7:1a A good name is better than precious ointment,
I had the privilege of officiating the going home service of an old saint this past week as we laid Ben Glover to rest. As I spoke with the family I was made aware once again how powerful the role of a father can be.
Though Ben’s life is now over, the impact of his life will remain for years to come. His zeal for life, commitment to family and love for God was strong, not only in his family, but to the many of his friends and acquaintances he made through his years of life. Reflecting on his life, it reminded me once again what we should put the emphasis on as we live this life.
I’m sure you could extend this list, but here is a small list that we should keep in focus as live our lives:
- Keep the Faith. Nothing in life matters more than being ready for eternity.
- Teach the Faith. Teach it to your family, be involved in your church and share it with the world.
- Make More Memories than Money. When your life comes to an end what your family will treasure and carry in their hearts are the memories you have made.
Leave something of real value, leave a heritage.
Memory Lane
4.18.10
I Corinthians 3:7
So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters
is anything, but God who causes the growth.
I didn’t fully appreciate or understand that tremendous blessing at the time, the heat in the midst of the battle often blurs the blessing, but now, a few years down the road, I have become very thankful for the years I spent with incredible young people from around the United States and beyond while working at Indiana Bible College. Being able to invest in their lives was a privilege and honor.
Today, they return the favor by being here at Life Connections. I hope you will be blessed by the talented and anointed singing of Kristen Keller from Lancaster, Ohio and the ministry of Jon and Indira Petoskey from East Hartford, Connecticut. In addition, Anthony Vilhauer from Paoli, Oklahoma, will be blessing our kids in Kids Connection. Their lives and ministries bring a warm glow to my heart and allows me to see the dividends from my time at Indiana Bible College.
What you are investing in today is important. You may not see immediate dividends, but in time it will grow and mature and become something beautiful. So keep teaching, believing and encouraging… the rewards will come back multiplied!
Back to Business as Usual
4.11.10
Luke 24:6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee:
Seven days later: back to business as usual. The buzz about the veil torn in the temple has subsided, the earthquake is yesterday’s news and the supposed dead walking through the streets has been relegated to a myth. The death of the man Jesus and his supposed resurrection has been overwhelmed by routine. With the exception of a few radical disciples and their reports of seeing a resurrected Jesus, life has returned to normal; another dollar to be made, another deal to be done, laundry to wash and schooling for kids. Calvary’s cross and Jesus’ resurrection has had no impact on daily life.
Funny how much things have changed, yet how much they haven’t. Two thousand years later, a few stopped Friday to observe the cross and there was a flurry of celebration on Sunday. A sunrise service, Easter baskets for the kids, the largest crowd ever at Life Connections but for many today, its back to business as usual. Yards to mow, kids activities to be a part of, shopping, or maybe a trip to the fishing hole or golf course. Whatever, lives really weren’t impacted by the resurrection celebration; just a moment in time, a spot on the calendar. Makes me thankful for the few who believed and pursued. I suggest we do the same!
Hope Lives!
4.4.10
Luke 24:6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you,
while he was still with you in Galilee:
Who could have imagined. A week earlier He is the most well-known and popular person in Jerusalem. His entry in Jerusalem was one that was reserved for Kings and dignitaries. Crowds lined the dusty road, palm branches were being waved to cool His ride and lay to the ground to calm the dust and shouts of Hosanna rang along the path. But now it is a week later, the name of Jesus is no longer the name to be dropped in social circles, in fact, the hero who was greeted on the road to Jerusalem is dead, suspended on a cross between to thieves. Who could have imagined a man’s popularity could swing so quickly. His followers have abandoned Him and those He had healed fear to mention the miracle. Jesus, just a shooting star like some many other would be saviors.
But this is different; though He is dead, the earthquake, the tombs opening and the veil torn in the temple has left people a little skittish. As Mary and the other women go to visit the tomb that morning, they do so with heavy hearts. Approaching they see the stone rolled back and little do they realize everything has changed in the world. There is no more hopelessness. Hope is forever alive. A fact we must remember still today. Jesus lives! Hope lives!
Bald Men and Bad Gospel
3.28.10
Acts 1:4 And gathering them together, He commanded them not to leave Jerusalem,
but to wait for what the Father had promised, "Which," He said, "you heard of from Me;
Hype. It’s about as valuable as a comb is to a bald man. It’s especially bad when hype is brought to church or the gospel. The gospel of Jesus Christ does not have to be manipulated by music, packaged in a deceptive wrapper or diminished to superficial salvation; the gospel of Jesus Christ can stand on its own! The power of the Holy Spirit is dynamic in itself; it does not need to be forced upon anyone. Let me remind you that Jesus told the disciples to go and wait on the promise, not to go and create the promise. No one has exclusive rights to the Spirit and no one can make it fall at their whim. The wind of the Spirit blows where and when it wills.
I feel compelled to mention this today because there is a move to hype up Jesus, to help out the moving of the Spirit and to create a revival. Let me remind you that most every revival has started with great prayer, not great promotion. Life Connections is committed to seeing a move of God, but the move of God that will take place in this church will happen authentically, through building relationships with Jesus Christ, living repentant lives and seeking His face with faithful prayer. Lets be authentic, lets be book of Acts!
The Gift of God
3.21.10
By Mary Hudson
1 Peter 4:10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God
His little voice was soft, quiet and sweet. His small hand was curled around mine gently. “Can I ask you a question?” Sure you can,” responding casually, not anticipating the question from a young first grader to catch me completely by surprise. “What is all around you and made you a gift?” “I’m not sure. I responded. “God”, he said. I wasn’t sure I heard him right so I bent down and looked him in the eye and said, “Did you just say God?” He smiled and said “Yes, God.” It warmed my heart! It was one of those out the blue moments, a reminder again that yes, God is all around us but not only does God surround us, He made us gifts so that we could be a blessing to those around us!
Little Luke was diagnosed with autism so it made his statement even more profound and special. What a gift he was to me that day! I haven’t been able to get this little conversation out of my mind. Every day I want to be a gift to someone and leave everyone I meet just a little more encouraged, a little more uplifted, a little happier. It doesn’t take much, maybe just a quick question will do it, but it will sure make the gift God made you more valuable.
It Was in the Biscuits 3.7.10
Matthew 26:12 He went away again a second time and prayed, saying, "My Father,
if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, Your will be done.
While in my opinion my wife is a fantastic cook, for many years I have complained that no matter how hard she tried, she just couldn’t make good biscuits and gravy. She would get recipes from others; buy different brands of mixes, but regardless of what she tried, her gravy never tasted quite right. Last week things changed, not in Mary’s ability to make gravy but in our choice of biscuits. Turns out the problem wasn’t so much with Mary’s gravy, but my choice of biscuits.
Oddly, it got me to thinking about how we get frustrated with God and our prayers. We pray and pray it seems to no avail. It leaves us asking, what’s wrong with God, why won’t He answer my prayers? The problem has never been with God’s power and ability, but I’m afraid many times it’s with our asking or our faith. Jesus’ prayer in the garden is a model for our prayer request. Ask what you want, but always end it as Jesus did, “thy will be done.”
Having problems with your prayers? Question your motives, not God’s ability. You might find it’s like my biscuit and gravy scenario. The problem may lie with your prayer, not God’s ability to hear and answer.
Compete to Complete 2.28.10
James 1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried,
he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
The Winter Olympics have been a true test of endurance and character. Medals have been won and lost in fractions of seconds and the smallest slips. It’s rewarding to see medals given to those who have spent years of time in practice and just as heartbreaking to see those who’s hopes have been dashed by a slip of a skate or a missed gate. Every athlete has spent not hours or days, but years preparing for one opportunity to shine. For every three victors that stand on the medal stand there are scores more who walk away with broken dreams, likely asking, was it worth all the time invested only to loose.
I’m so thankful that in the race we run that there are not just three victors. Those that receive a prize in God’s economy do so, not for being the best, but completing the course; quite different than the Olympics.
On top of the world today? “complete the race.” Struggling to keep the faith?, “finish the course”. Just beginning your journey with God?, “stay the course,” nearing the end? “finish strong.” The victory is not to the strong or the swift, but those who endure to the end. Like Nike says, Live Strong. Compete to complete!
The Street Called "Extra Mile"
2.21.10
Matthew 5:41 Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two.
There are no traffic jams on the street called “Extra Mile.” Most people get off on the exits just before; “just enough” and “just slide by.” While the traffic might be light on the street called Extra Mile, the benefits are often well worth the extra effort.
One of the ten lepers returned to Jesus while the others hurried to the priest and was made whole. Four men went the extra mile when deterred by a crowd; tore off a roof and saw a lame man pick up his bed and walk. What about you? Are you an Extra Mile Christian?
What are the characteristics of an extra mile Christian? They get up and pray when their bodies are weary. They make the Sunday service when the clouds are gray and the bed says, “roll over and go back to sleep.” They throw down a fast meal to get the Bible Study when it would be easier to have an excuse. They smile and say thanks when the service was poor at the restaurant. They forgive instead of judge; give grace when grace isn’t deserved and love when they really don’t have too. Most importantly, they make a difference, they are the ones that cause others to say, “I want to be a Christian like them.” Lets set our sights on being a second mile Christian!
A Day of Love
2.14.10
1 John 4:8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love
Today probably more than any other day of the year we see the icons that say, “love.” We say, “I love you” in many different forms, for some it’s a simple card, for others it may be chocolates or roses and for some it’s a candle lit dinner. It is a time when we take a moment out of our lives to reminisce about days gone by; the day you met your spouse, the day of the proposal and many other special moments you’ve shared along life’s journey.
Love defined simply is an intense feeling of deep affection. It involves emotions, physical attraction and admiration. While all of us have experienced love in some way, there is a love that supersedes any love that you may have experienced. The love of God; His affection was so intense that it caused Him to come to this earth, walk with His creation and even die so that we could spend eternity with Him. Looking for love? Look to God. His love is without conditions, forever forgiving and filled with blessings. No greater love…than the love of God. God is love!
A Little Football
2.7.10
Psalms 116:15 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.
As we prepare for a Colts victory later tonight, I thought it might be good to go over some key football terms:
· Draw Play – what many do with the bulletin during the sermon.
· Two Minute Warning – the point in the sermon when you realize it’s almost over and you begin to gather up all your stuff.
· Blitz – the rush to get to the restaurant before the other churches in the area.
· Flex Defense – the ability to allow absolutely nothing heard in the sermon to affect you.
· An End Run – those who get of church quickly without speaking to anyone.
· Quarterback Sneak – those who quietly leave during altar call.
· Benchwarmer – those who do not sing, clap or praise during worship service.
· Staying in the Pocket – what happens to a lot of money that should be given in offering.
Have a blessed afternoon and go Colts!
Watch Your Thoughts! 1.31.10
Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.
I ran across this article this past week and it reminded me of how important our thought life is. You’ve probably seen it before, but its wisdom causes it worthy of being repeated.
· Watch your thoughts; they become your words.
· Watch your words; they become your actions.
· Watch your actions; they become your habits.
· Watch your habits; they become your character.
· Watch you character; it becomes your destiny.
Many Christians put so much emphasis on appearance and works, but David understood the power of thoughts. Why do you think our adversary expends so much energy on controlling our thoughts? Simple, if he can get our thoughts on this world; its problems, its entertainment and its lust then he can control our entire life.
Make it a priority this year to spend time in the Word of God, let it influence your thoughts more than television, movies or the Internet. Let’s think right, lets think like God!
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11616 E. 126th Street
Fishers, IN 46037
Phone: 317.577-HOPE
