Our Conversation

refreshing.peace.

2007-04-14T07:34:00.000-04:00

Throughout all we have been through in the past few months, God has given me a peace about it. Something will happen, someone will say something that starts a fire or creates a mountain, but God puts that peace right back there. "I can't wait for this grey cloud to pass." Well put. God has taught me a lot through this process, and for that and more I am very thankful. Thank you for; my family, my friends, the process and journey, Case Mountain Community, Amadeo Community, Koinos Community, Victory Tabernacle Church, Pete and Debbie, and CIST. Thank you.

racing.thoughts.

2007-03-05T05:55:00.000-05:00

What do I do now? How do I say it? When will it all take place? What about the people? When will we know when the time is right? Why did this happen? How could we have prevented it? I am sad. I am scared. I am nervous. I am empty...

life:ten.virgins.

2007-02-07T09:40:00.000-05:00

Dear...,

I am in a season of struggle. Please keep me in your prayers. I went to see the doctor yesterday, and he said that I might be allergic to my cat. So I am on allergy medicine, but my head still feels bad. I am coming up against some big walls with the church plant. A wise man once told me that a great leader is one who does not give up, but always perseveres. NEVER STOP! I know that God has some cool stuff on the horizon, but sometimes I get caught up in the moment.

I have been working on my next sermon for the church at Victory Tabernacle in Middlefield, CT. God is working me through the parable of the ten virgins, which is what I will be talking about on Feb. 15th. I am starting to realize what Jesus is talking about in this parable. He is beginning to flesh this parable out in my life and the lives of others around me. The fire is hot!

Peace,
Pastor Eric

good,news.

2007-02-04T07:34:00.000-05:00

Dear ...,

I have good news, Case Mountain Community Church has been incorporated. For the past month, the servant team has been working on our Articles of Incorporation and bylaws. It took editing, reading, and re-editing of the docs and filing papers, but on January 31st the docs were given to the Secretary of the State's office, and in less than 24 hours, all was done. I was worried because sometimes / a lot of the time, the docs get sent back and changes must be made, but God gave us the knowledge and wisdom to get the job done. Thank you for your prayers. We desire to start Sunday gatherings on May 6th, so please keep that in your prayers (a location, organizing teams, families to join the journey, and all that is involved in starting to gather on Sunday mornings). Thanks.

Peace,
Pastor Eric

awareness.

2007-01-06T07:45:00.000-05:00

Dear...,

What is awareness? What do we need to be aware of? How do we become more aware of something? These are some of the questions that I am grappling with as I prepare a talk for the leadership at the church I attend. I have determined that awareness is simply the act of knowing something; being conscious of something. I was taught that awareness is like an iceberg; 10% of the iceberg is out of the water, this is awareness, the stuff that you can see. It's like Mose at the burning bush, one minute he was walking with his father-in-laws flock and the next minute the ground he was walking on was holy. Did the ground really become holy in a matter of minutes, or did Mose become aware that the ground was always holy? Awareness comes about by intentionally engaging someone or something to see a bigger picture. Take Mose and God's story at the burning bush, God told Moses that the ground he was on is holy (knowledge of, or become conscious of something). Be good and be blessed. Peace.

a.new.kind.of...

2006-12-19T16:16:00.000-05:00

Dear...,

A new kind of preaching. Maybe not new to me, but at least intriguing. I am studying narrative reading and preaching. It seems to be more freeing than topical reading and preaching. I have a lot to learn, but check this style of reading out. Google it! Amazon it! Or whatever. Just check it out.

May 6th will be our first Sunday gathering at 10:30am. Keep us in your prayers, we are trying to get everything ready for that day. Time goes by so fast. Also, tell everyone you know about Case Mountain Community Church, the website, and the gatherings. Be good and be blessed.

Peace be with you.

love.

2006-12-14T05:04:00.000-05:00

Dear...,

I am finding that love is not a noun, it is more of a verb. Not like a feeling, but more of seeking the greatest good of others. So what does that me? How do we seek the greatest good of others? Challenge. Serve. Teach. Listen.
These are a part of this bigger picture of love. America reveals a love of emotion and sex, but it is more than that, it is about others and their good. Think about your family or loved ones, at times you don't like them, but you love them and you want to see them succeed. So think about this next time you read Jesus' words of loving your neighbor as yourself or loving God. Remember that love is also about seeking the greatest good of others. Peace be with you...

wait.

2006-12-13T18:05:00.000-05:00

Dear...,

Wait? Why? I don't want to...

right.

2006-12-09T05:20:00.000-05:00

Dear...,

For the past week, God has been bringing up childhood lessons. Most recently it has been, "two wrongs don't make a right". As I study for the servant leadership training, I have found this principle to be very powerful and helpful. "Should I do this or that", someone might say, "you should do the right thing", says the elder. Do the right thing! What does that look like? How do we do the right thing? Why is this age old principle so profound? At what point do we know when we are doing the right thing? Why should we do the right thing, can't it just be all about number one? Be good and be blessed.

process.

2006-12-05T16:14:00.000-05:00

Dear...,

I am in the process of doing a lot of things, and it is starting to weigh me down. My lower back is hurting, i have pain in my joints, and my belly is getting large. It is time for something to give, something to change. I am in the process of child birth, and I want my baby to come already. I can't sleep, I can't eat much, I am grouchy, and I just want my life back...

the.time.

2006-12-03T07:39:00.000-05:00

Dear...,

It's interesting, the church that I am a part of (Case Mountain Community) is performing the advent at their gatherings. Last week we learned that advent is arrival or coming, which is of Christ. We discussed the verse of Jesus speaking about Noah and no one knowing the time of the flood, Jesus said that this is how his second coming would be. Imagine that, everyone is doing their own thing, and wham, Jesus is back. What would that look like? How could we prepare ourselves for his return? He states that no one knows the time, then what does he want us to do? Does he expect or want us to build the ship? And what is the ship? The evangelicals would tell us to make sure everyone was born again, again. The charismatics might say that they should be saved and speaking in tongues. The Catholics might say that they need communion or the liturgy. But what does Christ Jesus want from us? What is he calling us to? As we near the celebrational time of his birth, lets take time to remember what he said. Be good and be blessed.

Peace...

servant.leaders.

2006-12-02T08:39:00.000-05:00

Dear...,

So, I have been studying servant leadership because I am going to be teaching it in January, but I find it hard to fully describe beyond being a servant leader. It seems like you take everything from leadership training, and add in be a servant first and then you have servant leadership. What is servant leadership? What are so qualities or attributes of a servant leader? How do you create a culture of servant leadership? What is the result of a servant leadership culture? How can we apply this to our life? What did Jesus say about serving? What did Mose say about servant leadership? Peace be with you.

J.O.Y.

2006-11-30T07:44:00.000-05:00

Dear...,

So, good news, I am going to get ordained on January 14th at Victory Tabernacle Church in Middlefield, CT. Yesterday, I met with Pastor Pete and we went over our vision and goals for the next six months. He said yes and amen to all the thing that we had planned. I am so excited! So, this means that we will be starting our Sunday gatherings on May 6th in a rented facility. Throughout the next few months we will be exploring new children church programs and learning them, as well as beginning to teach them. I have a lot more to say, but I am saving it for the month of January. All of January I will be dream casting. Also, we will be having a guest speaker. I hope to see you at one of our gatherings. Bring a friend. Be good and be blessed.

P.S.
It isn't really in depth stuff, but it's on my heart and I want to scream it from the top of Case Mountain.

hope.for.advent.

2006-11-27T22:29:00.000-05:00

Dear...,

This monday gathering was nice. We had our first advent experience. I love going through something and learning. It's cool, my neighbor has been teaching me about going through the process. "Focus on the process," he says. It's nice, because it keeps you in the present as well as the past and future. This is something I need to work on, slowing down and working through the process. It was nice to be still and seek God's presence tonight. We also celebrated Katie's birthday. I hope that this advent season is a blessing for you too. Be good and be blessed.

P.S.
Keep my friend in prayer, he is starting sunday services soon. As well as all those who are sick this, and some in the hospital. Lastly, pray for everyone who says that want to be a part of Case Mountain Community, but do not come. Let them come and be filled with fresh water.

John.8.

2006-11-21T08:14:00.000-05:00

Dear ...,

Jesus, just like GOD, said I AM. What does that mean? What does that look like? I AM. Like I am a person, or a duck, or water, or spirit, or breath, or everything, or above everything, yet with everything. Last night at the gathering we explored the daily office and we discussed John 8. The conversation between the Pharisees and Jesus was awesome. Jesus did not stop them, but encouraged them to discuss the topic at hand. They would question Jesus, and then Jesus would question them. Jesus did not shut them up or put them in their place, He simply spoke to them in about their topic. Finally He put them in their place, but He let them work through their situation. That's cool, God seems to do that with us, right? Looking at pretty people, overeating, drunkedness, laziness, coffee drinking, but it seems that Jesus helps us through these situations by convicting us, telling it how it is, and then helping us through it. Be good and be blessed.

PEACE.

James.5.9.

2006-11-11T09:04:00.000-05:00

"Friends, don't complain about each other. A far greater complaint could be lodged against you, you know. The Judge is standing just around the corner."

Dear ...,

Complaining is very interesting to me, lately. What does it mean? Is James saying, "do not bitch about each other because biching does not accomplish anything"? This verse seems to be saying we should not complain about others because there are so many complants against us. Why do we complain against others? Why don't we live in peace whenever possible? What would it take to stop complaining? Why do I always here complaining...

magic.miracle.

2006-11-04T12:45:00.000-05:00

Dear...,

On Thursday, Katie and I went to Chicago's Navy Pier. While we were on the Pier, we stopped at a magic store and I bought a cool coin trick. I wanted to get a few card tricks, but I thought I could wait and order them online. Anyways, what is the TRUE Christian view or point of magic and illusions. How do we know if it is okay or not? Miracles are okay, but put a cigarette through a quarter is not okay? I am just kinding, but where is the line, what is okay? All magic and illusions are bad? What if it served the purpose of a sermon or message? What if it cheered up a dying child or elderly man? Then is it okay? What if ...then is it okay?

caribou.coffee.

2006-11-01T16:33:00.000-05:00

Dear...,
I visited one of my favorite places in Chicago: Caribou Coffee. I was able to relax and work on my computer. I am working through vision and how to explain what I see. It appears that values, mission, purpose, goals, and desire is wrapped into vision. What do I desire for the future? What does it look like? What is the way to the vision? How do people become engaged in the vision? Is vision a part of this "Purpose Driven" society that we are in? Does this reflect the "Good to Great", seven points to success, culture that we find ourselves in? What if I knew that the future held community interactions with many people who are living good lives and seek to know and love God? Pray that His will be done on earth as it is in heaven...

matthew.22.21.

2006-10-29T08:03:00.000-05:00

"Caesar's," they replied. Then he said to them, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's."

Dear ..., What a challanging verse! Which part is Caesar's, and which part is God's? Why do we have to give to both God and man? When do we give to God and to man? How much do we give to God and to man? Is this just a thought provoking phrase, or did He mean something? Was He speaking to us, or was He speaking to the religious leaders only? When do we know when it applies to our lives? Could we just glance over this passage and highlight the love stuff after? This verse appears to bring more questions. I know deep down that we should give to Caesar what he asks, and give to God what He asks, but sometimes it is hard when you have the smell of warm cookies in the air. Be good and be blessed.

hey.hey.hey.

2006-10-27T08:08:00.000-04:00

Dear ...,

So it has been a few months, and I need to start writting again. I have started the church plant process with my wife, best friend, and home church. It's like the army (it's not a job, it's an adventure). Anyways, I have been able to use the worship gatherings on monday nights as an outlet for my thoughts, but I found that I need a daily avenue to let it all out. Plus, my hope is this helps me not download negative junk on my friends at the gatherings. Our gatherings have been awesome! We play songs, discuss certain topics at great lengths, have dessert and coffee, and get to meet new people. The servant team (Jason, Katie, and I) have been really enjoy the gatherings, as well as everyone else that comes out to hang out with us. I've decided to tell people that we are at a solid 1000 people, because it is not about numbers, it is about people and what God is doing in their lives (this is the stuff that I was talking about). Also, I would like to get back into sharing photos and thoughts on Scripture. I am on a parable kick.

case.mountain.community.website.

2006-06-09T17:36:00.000-04:00

Check out the new blog:
www.casemountaincommunity.blogspot.com

missed.horizon.

2006-05-17T05:44:00.000-04:00

With the rain coming to end, after seven days, I miss being in the tropical area. These colors are authentic and true. My question, is this a true place, and was I actually there? Did man walk on the moon? What happened during 9/11? All of these events and more are being questioned. They are in our history books just like any other event that took place in history, like the Gospel! Did Jesus every live, minister, and die? Yes, why are we questioning these events? Why are people even questioning 9/11 or the Holocaust? Is this due to doubt or due to trying to erase history? How can we change this idea of erasing history? May you understand that these things took place in history, which has created the world we live in (a post 9/11 world). So look to the horizon and live a life seeking first God's kingdom (or keep on keeping on)!

mystical.hello.

2006-05-16T08:02:00.000-04:00

CMCC

Last night Jason, Katie, and I went around Manchester. We prayed, sought the Lord, and hiked around Case Mountain. We also drove around the Case Mountain area, praying for the people that we saw and looking for a meeting house. At dinner, we discussed the logo, which is coming along in an excellent way (actually, it blew us away). We are waiting for the calendar at this point; leadership is going to meet and talk about Case Mountain Community, and then we will talk to them about the future. We need several things at this point, register and trademark the name and logo, ordination of Jason and I, timing to start organizing the church, the building, and advertising. There's a lot to come, but last night we were welcomed with a mystical.hello.

observing.perspectives.

2006-05-10T08:13:00.000-04:00

CMCC

I spoke with Pastor Pete last week, and he said that we were right on schedule (this was nice because I have some people questioning what we are doing). All that Case Mountain Community is doing is according to what God desires, and His timing. This was good to hear. We are going to meet with Pastor Pete at the end of the month to discuss more details about the next year or more. Pastor Pete is going to look through our CMCC packet, speak to his leadership, and then tell us what part Victory is going to play in the life of Case Mountian Community. I am excited about the future. We are still working on the website and logo design. Our energy has been spent on vacation, graduation, and getting ready for my party, but know our energy will go back into the things of Case Mountain Community.

sunny.bleu.

2006-04-30T22:33:00.000-04:00

CMCC

All is going well, vacation was awesome. I presented all of the information to Pastor in written form, and I will be meeting with him on Wednesday (please pray for that meeting). We will be discussing all of our values, vision, and passion for the future. I hope that it is well received and Victory is willing to help us move the vision forward. We are still working on the Case Mountain Community website, it will be up by the end of May or sometime in June. Lindsay is still working on our logo design (we need to find the money to pay for it: $330). We need help figuring out when to start the Bibe study. Please comment with ideas. Be good and be blessed.

fluid.

2006-04-18T16:04:00.000-04:00

CMCC

We have been working diligently on the website, as well as the values, beliefs, and vision statement. I am organizing my thoughts to speak to leadership. We need your prayers.

patient.desire.

2006-04-16T21:45:00.000-04:00

new.

2006-04-13T07:11:00.000-04:00

a.new.creation.

a.new.spring.

a.new.morning.

empty.blizzards.

2006-04-07T06:51:00.000-04:00

As I come to the end of my ice cream blizzard, I wonder if I am happy or sad. Have you ever felt this way, you don't know if you are excited or sad for an event to happen? Sometimes I am happy that I am at the bottom of my ice cream glass, and sometimes I am sad that the goodness has to end. Could we relate this to our conversation about a new season? Might we be happy or sad when seasons change? I know that when the weather goes from sun and sixty to rainy and forty, I get sad. So may you know and understand that God desires your love, and He is doing mighty things in your life. May you believe that God's plans surpass any plan you might have for you life.

C.M.C.C.

I have been working on a Church logo, it has been difficult, but I have sketch of what I envision the logo to be. I am meeting with a professional graphic artist on Tuesday and we will move forward with the logo. I have a message out to a website graphic artist. He has not called back, but I want to talk to him about prices and design. We desire that this website be technologically advanced (Podcast, video-cast, spread sheets, beautiful design), so if you know anyone who can do this, please send them my way. Continue to keep all of this in prayer and seek God as to how you might be involved.

cross.the.bridge.

2006-04-06T06:32:00.000-04:00

I can see the bridge, but I don't know why I cannot cross it. Have you ever been in this place? You want to cross over, but it is new ground and so you are nervous. Do we have anything to fear by crossing this bridge? The Good Book says, "if God is for us then who can be against us"? If we truly believe this, then why don't we move forward in the things of God? How do we know what God is doing in all of these plans? Does God want us to cross the bridge or to simply cross over the water? What does that look like?

C.M.C.C.

I have spoken to several of my close friends and they are keeping all of this in prayer. Please, continue to keep us in prayer. We are preparing for the Bible Study, May 15th. We are trying to organize all of our thoughts and all that the Lord is doing. We are looking into creating a logo, website, and perhaps registering the church name. Please, if you are interested in being at this meeting, comment and tell me. If I know that you are attending, then you do not have to comment. Thank you for your support.

snow.in.april.

2006-04-05T06:29:00.000-04:00

Just when you think God is moving you into a new season, He throws you a curve ball made of snow. What does this mean? Why would God move you into a new season and throw something else into the mix? Is this for our benefit? Does He desire us to remember what He put us through, so that we will remember how faithful and true He is to His Word? I have seen God do this many times. He will bring me to a new place and then something from the past will come up, but having been through these things, I already have the know-how. I know how to drive in the snow, I know how to walk in the snow, and I know how to remove the snow from the walkways and driveway. So may you be careful as God moves you into a new season, remember the old and live in the NEW. Be safe as you travel through what looks like the old season, but truly is the new season. Let God be your light and your guide. Let us praise God for the old and the new seasons!

two.thumbs.up.

2006-04-04T08:00:00.000-04:00

I spoke to an elder of my local church last night, and he was thrilled at all that my wife, my friend, and I were doing for the church plant. I recorded the belief statements in March, but we are now working on our values and vision. Praise God. I need everyone to pray that the Lord would guide us and help us through this process. We are working on a church logo and name; so at this point we need money for that and a church website as well as your prayers for all of this. Of all things, I would prefer your prayers. We will be starting a small Bible study in Manchester, CT. on May 15th and Lord willing it will expand from there. Everything is still in process, so if you have any ideas on churches and how you might think church should be, please leave your comments. Be good.

side.note.

2006-03-31T07:57:00.000-05:00

I am preaching April 20, 2006 at VTC.

REMEMBERING.a.new.season.

2006-03-30T10:10:00.000-05:00

As this new season comes, people are starting to remember their allergies, but is this such a bad thing? With allergies comes a new season, a season of more sun and better weather. These allergies are a sign that we are getting out of the depressing winter and moving into the joyful summer. As I write this, I wonder if this is how it was like when Jesus was on earth. At first people were stuck in their sin, but then Christ Jesus came to take those sins away. WOW, what an amazing thought! To be depressed and poor one day, and then this rabbi comes and heals you of all your troubles. After that He tells you to stay where you are and tell all of your friends and family what He did for you. So as we enter this new season of SUN, may you believe that God has created you new and desires that you tell all of your friends and family what He has done for you!

i.need.to.BE.amplified.

2006-03-29T05:48:00.000-05:00

Do you ever feel like people are not listening? Why don't people hear what you are saying? Are people so wrapped up into what they are doing, that they don't care what you are doing? I had this experience yesterday. I was talking to some friends, and they looked at me like I had three heads. I tried to tell them about where I felt the Lord was leading me, and how I would go about following Him. After I had stated that this is what I sensed or discerned the Lord was doing in my life, they seemed to care what I had to say; ultimately it seems as though they are all about doing their own thing. I found it to be saddening because they are close friends and all they truly cared about was the vision and goals of the current church. God has been prophesying church plants for years, so why not move forward with "this kid"? If my vision lines up with the churches vision, then shouldn't it be a "GO"?

Thoughts about Scripture...
As Moses was leading Israel from Mount Hor to Edom, they spoke against God, and He sent venomous snake that killed some. God told Moses to make a snake out of bronze snake and put it on a pole. God said that when the people looked at the snake, they would be healed from the snake bit. If this is true, why would God command Moses to make something that could be an idol? Don't they end up making a Gold Calf? How do we know that Moses truly heard God's voice on this one? Should we follow one MAN or should we follow God and trust that He is working through Man? What if I sense the Lord doing something, and Man senses something else? What if I sense the Lord say make a bronze snake and put it on a post, while Man sense wait for the timing of the Lord?

we.believe.10.

2006-03-27T06:12:00.000-05:00

WE BELIEVE that "in the beginning God created" (Genesis 1:1). The world and all that is in it was created by the trinal God, who is God the Father, Son, and Spirit. If God created everything, then everything should be sacred. I suppose it comes down to being consecrated, but why does it have to be consecrated by man in order for it to be sacred and used by God? Doesn't the church believe that God can and does work through anything? "In the beginning God created," it is His creation; His Church is just a little part of what God is doing. God is moving in the world today, and we should all be grateful that He has blessed us with the ability to work with Him. So may you believe that all this is God's creation. May you believe that He is working with you and through you, as He interacts with His creation.

we.believe.9.

2006-03-25T22:20:00.000-05:00

WE BELIEVE that God came down to earth in the flesh as Jesus the Christ. Adam was the first human to separate mankind from God, while Christ Jesus was the Adam who reconciled mankind to God. All have fallen short of the glory of God, however through the life, death, and resurrection of Christ mankind is now able to be reconciled to God. In order to be reconciled to God, man must repent, receive, and believe that Jesus is Christ and Lord.

we.believe.8.

2006-03-24T15:14:00.000-05:00

WE BELIEVE that all of mankind has an eternal existence; whether it is eternally with or without God. If a person has made peace with God and redeemed by Jesus Christ then they will spend eternity with God. If a person has not made peace with God and is not redeemed by Jesus Christ then they will spend eternity without God.

we.believe.7.

2006-03-23T06:15:00.000-05:00

WE BELIEVE that God uses different forms of sacraments or traditions, which allow us to observe Him and experience Him. These sacraments include: the Lord's Supper, water baptism. There are many traditions or disciplines that the Church uses in order to meet with God: prayer, fasting, reading and studying the Holy Scripture, walks or hikes with God, creating any form of art, giving, serving, and worshipping God. Some people use these sacraments and traditions to replace God, meaning that the people worship the creation not the creator. May you use these sacraments and traditions to meet with God and experience His greatness.

we.believe.6.

2006-03-22T06:41:00.000-05:00

WE BELIEVE that there is no division between sacred and secular. This came about when the church was trying to hang on to a piece of a person's life. The world would teach people the secular aspect of life, and the priests would teach people the sacred aspect of life. This might have been the belief for the last several hundred years, however there is no difference if we are at a coffee house, rock concert, work, or the movie theater. God is with us always. We are the same whether we are at the theaters or organized as the local body of Christ.

we.believe.5.

2006-03-21T06:29:00.000-05:00

WE BELIEVE that the Church has been blessed with the responsibility to spread the Gospel of Jesus the Christ. God used the ancient Church to spread the Gospel from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. It is the Church's responsibility to allow God to continue to spread His Gospel.

Why?

2006-03-20T06:44:00.000-05:00

As I look out at the fearless ocean, I think, why does the Church use fear to get converts? Doesn't the world use fear to make people buy and sell stuff? Why does the Church use the same tactics as the world? Did Jesus use fear? Didn't He come in peace, to bless His people?
I just watched the Nooma Luggage. I was totally with him, however, I don't know if I believe in his tactics. It seems that the Church at large uses fear. Aren't these people going to see God and be able to be before Him? Is this just a way for us to know that we know that people will be with God? It seems so sad that we need profess trusting in Christ, yet we put fear into people (some of which will not spend their life with Christ; they will simple say that they are saved and live their normal sinful life). Is that the type of people Christ is looking for? Isn't He looking for people who will follow Him? Isn't there a better way to make people follow Christ? Isn't there much more to Christ? May you believe that Christ will follow His Words and keep those whom the Father puts into His hands. May you believe that God's Will be done. And may you trust in the living God who will keep you eternally.

we.believe.4.

2006-03-20T06:18:00.000-05:00

WE BELIEVE that God is working through the members of the Church by the work of the Holy Spirit. As blood flows through our bodies; likewise, the Holy Spirit and His Gospel flow through the body of Christ.

we.believe.3.

2006-03-19T08:01:00.000-05:00

WE BELIEVE that the Church is led by God and is not a hierarchal organization. While there are leaders within the Church (Elders, Deacons, and Lay-people), there is no one man in charge. Our understanding of God as a trinal God reveals that we must lead the Church with a team leadership. The Pastors and other leaders listen and care about what others think and desire.

we.believe.2.

2006-03-18T10:01:00.000-05:00

WE BELIEVE that the local church makes up a part of the body of Christ. Christ is the head, and the Church is His body. This body is made up of local churches around the world.

we.believe.1.

2006-03-16T19:35:00.000-05:00

WE BELIEVE that God has been manifested in three beings: God the Father, Jesus the Christ, and the Holy Spirit. These three beings do not struggle for authority because they are three in one. They are not a hierarchy because they act as one in united authority. The Father, Son, and Spirit are all equal as they are one being.

God.is.cultivating.His.creation.

2006-03-15T16:43:00.000-05:00

The Lord is working on a wonderful thing within me. I cannot wait until it has come to semi-fruition. Lets just say that He is working on a community and unity situation within my wife and me. God is cultivating certain truths, from His Word, within us and revealing their importance. I really don't know what to make of this blog, but I wanted to get it down. Basically, I am very excited to see where the Lord takes us.

our.temptation.

2006-03-14T06:22:00.000-05:00

If you have the time, listen to Rob Bell at Mars Hill. He is preaching on excellent topics for Lent. "Our temptation" is an awesome sermon to start with; it is about forty minutes. He has a great understanding of community. We must share our stories with others to help them keep going, which will ultimately keep us going. It is about a community with Christ and others. He also talks about being and not just doing. Please if you can take the time to listen; listen to it and be with God.

our.heart.

2006-03-13T06:19:00.000-05:00

Daily Disciplines.

How much knowledge is enough knowledge? Why must I understand what the Lord is doing to make it effective? Can't I just be while God is doing His work? 1 Peter 2:21-25 reveals God's work for us and in us. So it is God who does all the work; good, because I sometimes have no clue what I am doing. He saves us, heals us, and reconciles us. Then where does faith, understanding, knowledge, and simply stated, US fit into this equation that the Apostle Peter set out before us? Is this where our free-will or existentialism comes into play?
God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21). Then we read the word from the Apostle Paul and wonder what it means to be righteous. Is this righteousness seen by others or only by God? Is it important that others see this righteousness? Do we strive to be righteous or is this all the work of Christ? In this equation the Apostle gives no insight or evidence that states I have any part to play in being righteous; it is all Christ.
Then the Apostle John recorded that all who receive Christ will become children of God; that is, those who believe in Christ, which are born of God (John 1:12-13). Now what does this mean? There is an element of US in this religion? So what do we do? How do we know what is enough? Or is what Christ did enough and God knows that we are people who like to "do", so He tells us that we have to do this, that, or the other thing? Who knows, but may you believe that God is with you and desires peace with you.!

Gracious Father,
In the precious name of Christ Jesus,
Be with us as we discover You and Your beauty.
Have mercy on Your creation. Give grace to those
who have sinned against You. Bring us into a place
of wonderful peace with You. Forgive us of our sin.
Create us as new beings.
Amen.

talk.about.just.being

2006-03-11T09:26:00.000-05:00

God's Beauty in Connecticut!

be.a.beggar

2006-03-10T13:34:00.000-05:00

What do you do with regret, doubt, and anger? As Christians, are we alloud to be these things? Why must we live as super-people? Aren't we all beggars or "sinners"? So, no one has it correct or all together? Today is my day of being! I am not spending time doing; I am just being who I am. See, sometimes I feel that we need to take days or time to just be. Isn't it God's job to do and our job to be? I know the Word says to not be hearers only, but doers as well. But why do we have to be "better" than everyone; super-human! Allow the Lord to surround you and take time to experience His presence.

the.only.one.

2006-03-09T15:26:00.000-05:00

winter.river.

2006-03-08T22:37:00.000-05:00

at.my.door.

2006-03-07T19:09:00.000-05:00

Who is at my door?

He said, "Who is at my door?"
I said, "Your humble servant."
He said, "What business do you have?"
I said, "To greet you, 0 Lord."

He said, "How long will you journey on?"
I said, "Until you stop me."
He said, "How long will you boil in the fire?"
I said, "Until I am pure.

"This is my oath of love.
For the sake of love
I gave up wealth and position."

He said, "You have pleaded your case
but you have no witness."
I said, "My tears are my witness;
the pallor of my face is my proof.'
He said, "Your witness has no credibility;
your eyes are too wet to see."
I said, "By the splendor of your justice
my eyes are clear and faultless."

He said, "What do you seek?"
I said, "To have you as my constant friend."
He said, "What do you want from me?"
I said, "Your abundant grace."

He said, "Who was your companion on the 'ourney?
I said, "The thought of you, 0 King."
He said, "What called you here?"
I said, "The fragrance of your wine."

He said, "What brings you the most fulfillment?"
I said, "The company of the Emperor."
He said, "What do you find there?"
I said, "A hundred miracles."
He said, "Why is the palace deserted?"
I said, "They all fear the thief."
He said, "Who is the thief?"
I said, "The one who keeps me from -you.

He said, "Where is there safety?"
I said, "In service and renunciation."
He said, "What is there to renounce?"
I said, "The hope of salvation."

He said, "Where is there calamity?"
I said, "In the presence of your love."
He said, "How do you benefit from this life?"
I said, "By keeping true to myself

Now it is time for silence.
If I told you about His true essence
You would fly from your self and be gone,
and neither door nor roof could hold you back!

Rumi - In the Arms of the Beloved, Jonathan Star
Jeremy P. Tarcher/Putnam, New York 1997

This pome was so powerful and really moved me today. In doing Lectio Divina, I
felt that the Lord really spoke to me through this poem.
Be good.

what.is.in.a.poem.

2006-03-06T21:43:00.000-05:00

Rumi; What a poet!

~speaking of beauty~
a picture of narnia

theological.conversation :: part.one

2006-03-06T21:12:00.000-05:00

During the February Emergent Theological Conversation at Yale, we spoke about the Church and culture. I found this topic to be inspirational and insightful. It was stated that the Church emerges out of a certain culture and stays in that culture. This means that we should embrace our culture, not reject or work against our culture. The line between the Church and culture is drawn too boldly; we must embrace what is going on around us as we follow Christ. We are to follow Christ's example of using culture to speak to the people and now use culture to speak to people about Christ.
I have been reading Shane Hipps' book (see March 4th); he speaks about the effects of technology in Christianity. Technology has impacted and changed Christianity. The question should be, does God work through culture or technology? Why does God allow technology or culture to be if He does not work through it? Does this help us or hinder us from interpreting or understanding God? We must embrace technology and culture in order for others to make peace with God and...

Open your mouth wide!

2006-03-04T09:37:00.000-05:00

There is a lot of coffee and newspapers in the emergent/c. Is this a new discipline of the Postmodern Church? It would be nice; I like coffee and newspapers!

I just started Shane Hipps' new book The Hidden Power of Electronic Culture; awesome book. This is a must buy and read! Support the Arizona pastor who has a great understanding of the gospel as it relates or works through culture. He discusses technology and our perspective of God and His creation. This book and the Lord's Table will be a major part of this blog for the next week. Today at the Lord's Table I re-learned that I must open my mouth wide to receive from God (Psalm 81:10-12). In order to be satisfied by God we must open His Word and be nourished by the Truth. When you feel tempted in any situation seek God through His Word, meditation, and prayer. I also desire to do the Lectio Divina, which was taught to me by Tony Jones.

It's a painting!

2006-03-03T18:41:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking about life being a painting. A painting is another concept or symbol that we can use to understand life. There is so much to painting a picture. What colors do you like to use? What is your favorite paint brush? Do you prefer to use oil, acrylic, or watercolor? Do you like abstract, portrait, or landscape painting? There are so many aspects to life, but what area of life is your main focus; work, school, your kids or spouse, the working out at the gym, spiritual disciplines or spending time with Christ? Obviously I am going to tell you to make time for Christ, but do not neglect your physical being (workout at the gym, eat right, and spend time with your family).

Take time to enjoy God's green earth. We live in such a fast pass world, but never take time to be. I am a true believer in silent time and thinking time. Take some time today and think about what you are doing in life and where you want to go. Be good to yourself!!

Disciplines?

2006-03-02T18:21:00.000-05:00

In tune, I feel like being honest in my blog is a form of being in tune with God. I have been reading so many different blogs (Tony Jones, Jake, and Generous Orthodoxy) and I have found that they are so honest in their thoughts. I have started a new discipline, which is called the Lord's Table. It is a four day cycle of eating and fasting unto God. During this 60 day course I do daily studies that are pre-made. It is free and awesome! I hope that you can check it out. http://www.settingcaptivesfree.com/lords_table/
Speaking of disciplines; Jake has been doing a discipline titled The Office, which is really cool. What type of disciplines do you enjoy? What type of disciplines do you dislike? I enjoy constant prayer, dialogue with God, while focusing on Christ. Take time today to be with Christ!!

In TUNE!

2006-03-01T07:25:00.000-05:00

Lately I have been feeling blah, and I don't know how to get out of it. I'm not blue because of winter, I am not dark, or even sad; I am blah!! Rod Bell, in the new nooma, talks about the song and being in tune. As I watched my Nooma, I felt the Lord saying, "stop and listen to the song. Are you in tune?" How do we get in tune with the song? Is it possible to just BE with the song, not worrying about the pitch or tone? What would our lives look like if we spent more time being? Rob Bell states that being in tune is a way of living a harmonal life with God; serving and living for Christ. It's like this photo, can you see the beauty of the Blue Jay through the thick of the branches; likewise, can you see Christ through the thick of this world.

~ Are you in tune and ready to play God's song?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

Quick note!

2006-02-12T22:48:00.000-05:00

New England received about two feet of snow. WOW!! I thought winter was over? The emerging conversation at Yale New Haven was excellent. Dr. Vold spoke about many important aspects of culture and theology that many Christians do not think about. I will be writing about this conversation in blogs to come, but I want you to take a look at a few websites that I find interesting:
Koinos Community Church - Home
faithasawayoflife
Generous Orthodoxy ThinkTank
These are a few blog and websites that you should frequent!! I have some wonderful pictures of Dr. Volf, Tony Jones, and Brian McLaren discussing theology and the emergent/C. I hope to get my act together as school comes to an end!

Jeremy Camp!?

2006-02-04T15:04:00.000-05:00

What a crazy month! Preaching, drumming, and meeting Jeremy Camp. If you ever get a chance to see or meet Jeremy Camp, please do it! He was such an excellent person, Christian, and singer. He spoke about the love and grace of God, saying that Christians must display this love and grace that God has revealed to the world. His comment and testimony has motivated me to further thought of the reformation of practice. In order to speak to people of this world, we must be like Paul and tell them that their unknown god is Jesus Christ (Acts 17). Is there anybody that you can talk to about Christ's love and grace? Have you prayed for that person? Can you share the gospel with them in a way that is non-threatening? We should all be like Paul, who has made himself become an instrument of God!!

Who can you speak to about their unknown god?
~Please join "The Conversation" and comment!

Spring into newness!

2006-01-20T08:17:00.000-05:00

This year I am going to stop being the one to lift and move everything in the Church. Last weekend I hurt my back, and I have been laid up all week. This winter season has been so weird; the temperature goes from 28 degrees to 60 degrees in a matter of hours. Then it goes from 60 degrees to 18 degrees with a windchill. Why does the temperature fluctuate like this? I certainly am enjoying this spring weather, but what would it take to be winter again? What happened to all of the snowstorms? Have you ever noticed that you can be so crazy even when everything and everyone else around you is at ease? Even in this spring weather, it seems that we can be in a snowstorm.
This one duck was startled as we cruised by, but the rest of his friends were fine. Life can be like that; everything is calm, but we are so busy and so crazy! This is why I hope to get rid of some activites this year. Please, make an effort to get rid of your business or craziness this year. I hope that you can calm down and embrace what God has for you this year.

What can you embrace that you have been neglecting?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

Simplicity!!

2006-01-13T05:41:00.000-05:00

Simplicity is something that the New Year makes me think about. What would it take to be more simplistic? How is this related to your comfort zone? Do you keep things because it is more comfortable for you to not change, then it is to change? In what ways could you be more simplistic? Can you get rid of anything that you haven't used in some time? What activities can you stop doing to free up some time to spend with God, your family, or yourself? We spend so much time doing things for others, but we don't spend time with God and ourselves! Take some time to take care of your relationship with God and your body!

What can you let go of this year?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

Peace with God!

2006-01-08T15:40:00.000-05:00

After stepping out of your comfort zone, you may encounter fear, doubt, and/or peace. What happened when you step out of your comfort zone? Did you have a close encounter with God? What was the process that you took to encounter God? Was it through spiritual disciplines (prayer, worship, studying, silence) or through experiences with other people (fellowship, walking with a friend, community living)? While these are some ways to have a close encounter with God, it is not an te end all be all. What other ways can you have an encounter with God? Does forming a process put God into a box? Can God be meet through our daily walk at work, the gym, and while watching the morning or evening news? At some point in time after encountering God you will come to a place of peace! It is important to come into a place of peace with God. Have you made your peace with God? What does this take? (Simply speak to God and ask Him to reveal Himself to you.) What is peace after an encounter with God? How does this look? Does everyone come to a place of peace after an encounter with God? Seek peace with God!

Have you made peace with God?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

Step outside your comfort zone!

2006-01-07T14:34:00.000-05:00

It seems that I will be meeting God as I step out of my comfort zone! Pastor asked me to give my second sermon; it will be on encountering Christ. Within this topic I will be talking about revelations from God, fear, doubt, and growth. These topics are all confronted as we encounter Christ. How could you step outside of your comfort zone? In what areas of your life can you step outside your comfort zone? Could you encounter Christ as you step outside of your comfort zone? I know that I have as I preach from the pulpit and play drums during service for the Church. Peter is a good person to use as an example of stepping out of thecomfort zone. Peter stepped out of the boat and on to the water. Why aren't you stepping out of the boat? What is holding you back? Perhaps it comes down to priorities? Let us be like Peter, and step out of the to meet with God!

How could you change your priorities to step out of your comfort zone?

~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

Chould our works be organic?

2006-01-04T15:02:00.000-05:00

What "good works" are organic? How can Christianity change to be a religion or a relationship of good works? Is Christianity all about knowledge and anointing? It seems to me that Jesus was more into good works unto God, rather than knowledge or anointing. He did not tell the people whom He helped to seek knowledge, but to preach the Good News. Does this seeking knowledge and/or anointing turn Christianity into a religion of works for salvation? What did the early Church do before the Bible was written and fully organized? How did they experience God? How did they learn to live daily with God? Could this have been accomplished through good works? The more mature people would tell the inquiring minds what they desired to know; story time, Q/A time, and mentoring time. Remember that Jesus spent almost all day and night with the twelve. What can the Church do to be more like the Church that Jesus desired; community, fellowship, "anointed," and redeemed?
God created a being that was organic, yet the modern world desires everything to be perfectly known and understood. We must remember that God created us from dust as an organic or living being! As you may know, I love the flow of water; likewise the Church should learn from the flow of water (be organic, living, and ever changing)! God created a people who created this creek, flower arrangement, and waterfall scenario, which is alive and growing!

How can you grow more towards God this year?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

Could God be protecting us through His mysteries?

2006-01-03T09:31:00.000-05:00

(Read Jakes comment from yesterday's blog!)

Does it truly matter who is and who is not anointed or authentic? I suppose that it is important to understand who is authentic, but the Bible says that whoever confesses Jesus as Lord has the Holy Spirit within them. Scripture also says that the Spirit of God can only understand the things of God. That said, if you profess Jesus as Lord then you have the Holy Spirit within you and you can understand the things of God. Then why are we wondering who is anointed or authentic; shouldn't we just wonder who professes Jesus as Lord? As I study for school, I am starting to see an element of mystery in following Christ. Do you suppose that God might use this element of mystery to protect us? Could God use this mystery to keep us from becoming puffed up or big headed? If so, then why do we wonder what is anointed and what is not anointed? Let us live a life of good works that glorify God! My desire is to be a better person unto God!

What do you desire this New Year?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

When is it the Holy Spirit?

2006-01-02T09:19:00.000-05:00

I have doubts or questions about people or things being "anointed by the Holy Spirit." ~ When we talk about where the Spirit is moving, could this sometimes hinder the Spirit from moving? It seems that the Church cares more about who is and who is not anointed versus just doing the work of the Lord! Could we view the moving of the Spirit in different ways than God does? Why do we need to know what is and what is not anointed, what's the big deal? Doesn't Proverbs talk about a person's plans being in their heart, but the way of the man belongs to God? Why can't we live a life of just doing good works for God? How would that look like; a reformation of practice! Is this seagull led by the Holy Spirit to be flying in the right hand of this photograph, or was I led by the Spirit to take this picture of the seagull in the right hand of this photograph? Complex question, but does it really matter; could God be guiding us both, but does it truly matter? Could we just give God the credit for creating the seagull, me, the camera, and that point in time that we all met?
This picture was taken from the plane when we were flying over Arizona. Could all of this be a matter of perspective; seeing things as anointed or not anointed? Shouldn't we stop worrying about who is anointed and start doing the things of God?

What are some good works that you will do this year?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

Can we change our view of doubt?

2006-01-01T16:37:00.000-05:00

Is doubt okay? Where does doubt come from? Is it from the devil or is it from our own human nature? Could we still be people of God and have doubt? I just wrote a paper entitled "Elijah: A Man of God." It might surprise you, but Elijah doubted God, yet he was titled a man of God. How could this be? Aren't people of God supposed to be faithful and without doubt? Could doubt be a part of our growing process? Jake once told me that walking with God is like walking down the street; first you are out of balance stepping on your right foot, then your weight is balanced, and then you are get out of balance as you step on your left foot. Could this be the same process with our doubt?! As we walk with God we encounter Him in many ways, then we have a trial that causes us to doubt, but ultimately we must listen to that small still voice that tells us to move forward with the things of God. It is like this photo; you may doubt this, but I took this picture while my wife was driving the car 75 mph. To me this picture looks like I was standing still on a special view point. NO, I took this picture while sitting in the passenger seat of the car. So, could our view of doubt be something that the Church changes, does doubt have to be such a bad thing?

What do you doubt?

~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

Christmas Lights!!

2005-12-28T10:53:00.000-05:00

Here is a cool Christmas display for you to observe! Just click the link!!

I'm DRAWN to a New ( Postmodern) Christianity!

2005-12-20T09:36:00.000-05:00

My eyes and understanding are drawn to culture and how Christianity will be changed. I hope to understand how to evangelize and disciple people who are fully into this worldly culture. I don't know how this will look just yet, but I have made it my life goal to figure this out. What is the culture of this world? Why can't we just evangelize the same way we have been ("a wonderful life")? This world is changing, the people believe that all roads lead to God, and the only absolute is that there are no absolutes. So what do we say to them to make them believe that there are absolutes and God has given us the truth. How can we present the Gospel without watering it down, and without violating anyone's free will? What would it take for the Church to evangelize in this new way? How long will it take for the Church to realize that the world is changing, and we need to change our methods? I am not saying to change our message, but to change our methods! It's like when Jesus came to Peter (three different times): 1) Jesus told Peter to put down the net and follow; 2)Jesus told Peter to follow Him up the mountain at the transfiguration; 3)Jesus told Peter to walk on the water. Jesus did not change His message because He was the message; however Jesus changed His method or His approach to evangelism.

What can we do to change the method and not the message?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!
[I will be in California for Christmas, so this might be the last blog until the New Year. Please review the past blogs and seek an encounter with God on this excellent Christmas season! Merry Christmas!!]

Lean not on your own understanding! ~ PART 2

2005-12-19T09:25:00.000-05:00

Scripture says, "Lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5). It's like these photos; there is a good area of green grass surrounded by the forest. Can there be good that is surrounded by all the bad in this world? Can a person be a part of this world and still be separate? What is your understanding of the culture of this world? Again, can the Church be a part of it, but be separate at the same time? As I look at the trees in these photos, my eyes are immediately drawn to the green of the pine trees. Does that mean something? Could the pine trees represent something? Is God trying to tell us something through these photos of nature? Can we learn something through these pictures; could this be our close encounter with Christ? If you noticed, the pictures are the same shot, but the second one is a close up. I did this so that we could see the detail in the land that is around the farmhouse. I hope that you take some time to look at these photos and seek the Lord about my questions. How does this relate to our free will discussion? As my eyes are immediately drawn to the green pine trees; could our eyes immediately be drawn to certain things that are based on our own understanding? What would it take for us to get outside the box and see things according to God's understanding? Take some time today to spend some alone time with God, and ask Him to change your understanding to His understanding!

What is your understanding DRAWN to in this world?

~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

Lean not on your own understanding! ~ PART 1

2005-12-18T05:50:00.000-05:00

Have you had your close encounter with Christ yet? Have you taken your hike? What has God told you during your silent time? Did God talk to you about free will during your silent time? What is the next step? This is what I saw when I went on my hike (the picture)! How organic is your relationship with God? Does God have enough room to change your understanding? After all, the Bible says "lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5). So in what way are you leaning on your own understanding? How could your understanding change (if you let God have room to work)? Isn't it like a relationship with a child; they don't know what they NEED, but the parents know what they need? Or like this creek, God allows things to happen (rain, snow) so that this creek can flow, but if the creek leaned on its own understanding, it may panic. Do you panic when you lean on your understanding of things? Step outside the box, like God, and look outside the box! The creek gets water from other water sources and continues to flow. Likewise, we get help from the Church to move forward in the Lord. If you give your life to be a disciple of Jesus, does that take away your free will? Our understanding might say no, but God's Word says not to lean on that, so could God change our understanding as we follow Him?

How can you lean more on God's understanding?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

Be STILL and Know!

2005-12-17T13:01:00.000-05:00

Be still and know that I am God (Ps. 46:10). What a wonderful verse! Could we all do this as we get closer to CHRISTmas, which is the reason for the season? Does God work through silence? Is silence a part of this order that we are talking about (the order of life)? The Bible says that God's voice is like a still small voice, so can we hear God better in silence? Let me encourage you to go on a hike or a walk this weekend or whenever you read this entry. Take some time and just focus on God; think about your relationship with Him. Bring a journal and record your thoughts or things that you encounter. When I take a hike, there is a spot that I stop at, which is on top of the water falls that you see in my blogs. If you have not seen the pictures in earlier blogs, let me encourage you to view them and think about the entries.

What can you do to take time throughout your day to BE SILENT?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

When can FREE WILL be violated?

2005-12-16T09:43:00.000-05:00

When does a closer encounter with Christ violate our FREE WILL? What if we are in harms way, then can God violate our free will, or is He NEVER allowed to violate our free will? Is there an order to life that would allow God to intervene when needed? Maybe God sees life like a bowl of oatmeal, with the fruit, oats, and milk are all mixed together, whereas humans tend to see things as separate just like cereal in milk? It's like these trees, we see them everyday, but do we realize their full potential? The most important thing that the trees do is give us our oxygen; they take in CO2 and give back the O2. Trees also help to lower noise pollution, they take in water during floods, and they add beauty to the landscape. Look at a river and the way it flows; is God allowed to change the flow of a river if He does not like the flow during flood season? So, did God set these things into motion with order, with the ability to interact with this order? Does this same acting with others apply to our lives? If yes, then why are there Christians who throw Bibles at non-believers? If we cannot violate free will, then what do we do to reach and disciple the Lost?

What is free will and when is God allowed to violate it?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

Close encounter with Christ?

2005-12-15T07:49:00.000-05:00

What would it take to have a close encounter with Christ? Why is it so important to have a close encounter with Christ? My favorite story to observe for an understanding of a close encounter with Christ is from Luke 7, the story of the sinner woman. During this Christmas time, think about your close encounters with Christ. When have you met with the Lord? How did you meet with Him? As you grow in the Lord, do your encounters with the Lord change or stay the same? Isn't Christmas a time of year for more of Christ (mas in Spanish is more)? So what can you do to get more of Christ this Christmas season? Could your encounters with Christ change? Mine have! I have been taking more hikes and worshipping God from the stage while I play the drums for the Church.

So what does Christmas mean to you?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

The rays of the Son?

2005-12-14T09:05:00.000-05:00

As I look at this picture, I am thinking about how much my mindset has changed throughout my life. Has your view on life changed? How has your view on life changed? Has your view on God changed? Could someone enter into a relationship with God by the help of an evangelical Christian, and then end up being an emerging Christian? What would it take for someone to change as they grow in the Lord? As they grow, does their knowledge of God change? As my aunt said in her email to me, "as we age, things (literal things) become less relevant, and knowing about God and His desires for us become closer to the top of the list."So then, could someone be a Catholic, Evangelical, Charismatic, Pentecostal, Calvinist, Emergent Christian all at the same time? As Steve said in Monday's blog comment, it is God's job to save and the church's job to disciple people. So how could the Church do a better job at discipling people? Does it take more knowledge to disciple people or a true close encounter with Christ?
~Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

What truly changes?

2005-12-13T07:32:00.000-05:00

Perhaps there are no divisions in the different topics of theology; does God see everything as one larger topic? It's just like the description of God in yesterday's entry: is God Love, Mercy, Just, Holy, or is He all of these things together? Do you think that God has books on Systematic Theology or is that just people? The Bible says that the Word became flesh, so perhaps God is separate things that are combined to be one. It could be just like the trinity; three in one! Could it be like this water that flows down these rocks? There are many different places with different angles to see different areas, but it is the same flow of water down the same rock. So as we grow in the Lord, could our perspectives change and could our view of God change? Although the rock's composition and the water's DNA never change, our perspectives and angles of view do change!
~ Please join "THE CONVERSATION" and comment!

Discipled over being "saved!"

2005-12-12T07:29:00.000-05:00

Is it better to be saved or to be discipled? What is the difference? Is it a matter of perspective- one person sees it as more important to disciple people and another sees it as more important to save them? Is there a difference between the two subjects, or do we, as systematic people, divide the two topics? This perspective theory is displayed all throughout history: to Martin Luther God was Just, Holy, and Wrath and a Charismatic Christian would tell you that God is Love, Mercy, and Grace. Some people might tell you that it is about both being saved and being discipled, while a close friend might say that being saved is more important. So then what is truly more important, the now or eternity? Could there be a way to see the now and eternally? It's like this picture, when you look at the picture it looks really beautiful and inspirational, but when I was there taking the picture, the location smelled so awful (like sewage). So remember, that it could be all about your perspective and mindset!

Salvation: the process?

2005-12-11T07:34:00.000-05:00

On Friday December 7th, we discussed salvation. What is salvation and how does it work? Is life all about being "saved" or is it all about being a disciple of Jesus? Is salvation the beginning and the end of the process of being a Christian? First you must accept Jesus in your heart and be saved, then you must walk with Him to become a disciple. Once you die and go to Him in heaven, He will save you from eternal death. Could this be the process that Christianity is professing? Or could it be like the flow of a river; it starts as a puddle, but after more water comes, it flows to a bigger body of water. This is related to our walk with Jesus; first we start our journey as a disciple, then go to Church and become educated in His teachings, lastly after death we end up being with Him. So, why does there seem to be such a process? Shouldn't it just be this constent walk with Jesus? Jesus says that He is the door and whoever enters through Him will be saved (John 10:9); so how do you enter this door? Is it like crossing the "bridge of peace" that we discussed on Saturday December 3rd? My question to you: what is true salvation and how does it work?

Does God's forgivness depend on people?

2005-12-10T14:33:00.000-05:00

I wonder how much involvment people have in the saving grace of God. The evangelicals would have you believe that people are primary in the spreading of the gospel, which leads to people being saved. The charismatics, on the other hand, throw around words like "co-laborers." What does it take to be saved? Is the salvation of Jesus dependant on His people or His redeeming act on the cross? Is the work 80% the people of God and 20% God, or is it 20% God's people and 80% God? But isn't the point that Jesus died? He said it was finished. The Bible states that there is no name under heaven but Jesus that can save (Acts 4:12)! Could it be that God's forgiveness and salvation is dependant only on God? Extreme Calvinists would have you believe that all humankind is destined by God for heaven or hell. This does not make sense because Jesus said that hell is made for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41). Then I thought, but what about the variable of free will? Don't people have the choice to accept Jesus and walk with Him or not accept Jesus and live a purposeless-life? Remember that Jesus said to "go and make disciples of all nations." He did not say go and make everyone say this sinner's prayer. Could there be more to salvation than what we think?

Let it snow, let it snow, LET IT SNOW!

2005-12-09T08:08:00.000-05:00

As the snow falls, I wonder about God's forgiveness. Is it out there for anyone to receive? What does it take to receive God's forgiveness? In receiving God's forgiveness, which religion is correct in its "steps?" Has Christianity become a religion of good works? How many times do you need to repent to be forgiven? How much knowledge do you need to move forward in the Lord? Why are there so many steps in the redemption process? I was taught that God's forgiveness is there for us to receive freely. It's like the snow that falls all around us; His forgiveness is everywhere!
So what does it take for us to walk or receive this forgiveness? Is it like the snow; all it takes to experience it is to walk outside your door, or does it take steps of repentance, knowledge, baptism, and deliverance? Whatever the case is, we know that Jesus said that God's forgiveness is out there for us (Luke 7:36-50).
Remember, if you've made "someone else's day, then you've made you own."

Curse the fig tree?

2005-12-08T13:42:00.000-05:00

One thing that has been on my mind is the story about the fig tree (Matthew 21:18-22). Jesus comes to the tree and it does not produce fruit so He curses it. Now the Church says that this is because the tree does not produce fruit, but I think that there is more to this story. What season was the tree in? Where was the tree located (by water, sand, or gravel)? What was Jesus thinking about (mission work, healing, or John the Baptist) and doing at the time (walking, jogging, running, skipping, talking, debating)? Why would God create something with a DNA to produce during a specific time, and demand fruit when it shouldn't be producing? Is God out to create fallen beings and condemn them to hades? Does God make a way for His creation to be redeemed? So, in lieu of viewing this in seasons, should we see it as a story with a different lesson? Could our interpretation of the fig tree be incorrect? Could He be teaching us something else as He does in parables? Could we be doing this same type of interpretation throughout the rest of our doctrine? Is Jesus talking about doing things in and out of season, is He speaking about faith and walking in faith, or is He speaking about something altogether different then what our finite minds can fathom?

What about change?

2005-12-07T09:25:00.000-05:00

But what will happen if others see people of God interacting with the world's culture? Will they see the people of God as the same as this destructive worldly culture? How can God's people examine the world and change the culture? Is the world inevitably going to have to answer to God for its wrong doings? Again, how does God's people embrace the lost, but assist them to change to God's way? Could the people of the world look at the Church and scream HYPOCRISY, you are the same as we are? You swear, get angry and outburst, lie, cheat, steal, drink, and overeat, but that is okay because you do it to the glory of God? As Jake said, the people of God must follow God moment to moment by seeking Him in all situations. God does not desire us to be amish and live apart from this world, but He does desire that we make an impact and be the light of the world. Remember, it is God who will change the people, it will not be "the people of God" who change the people of this world. So I say come as you are, but know that if you give your life over to God, you probably won't stay the same!

Creating a culture apart from the culture~ Part1

2005-12-06T11:11:00.000-05:00

Do you ever feel alone? Could you be that person on the other side of the bridge, who wants to make a difference in culture? How would you make a culture apart from the larger culture? It is obvious that this world is bad; terrorists, bomb threats, suicides, rape, murder, drugs, etc. So what do the people of God do? Do they buy property in Pennsylvania and do not use any modern technology? Do they get totally involved in technology and the ways of this world? Or could there be a happy medium between the two ideas? Is it possible to follow God daily, and help the people of this world? Can the people of God embrace the lost, sick, and needy? What would it take to reach these people? Could they strategically work through this Postmodern age using technology and all the modern advances to get to people? What would it cost for the people of God to do this? How else would this new culture be different?

How could this be?

2005-12-05T17:01:00.000-05:00

So, if we have crossed that "bridge of peace" and we are now with God, what do we do now? Do we just stay with God in the happy place? Do we boldly preach to others? Do we help others come to know and understand the peace of God? How do we do this? It's like this picture; we go through the bushes of distress and into the light of God. But once we are with God, then what? It's as if we need to influence the culture, but not be part of the culture. We need to be at a distance from the world, but still be a part of the world. How could this be? What would it take to separate from culture and have your allegiance be to God? What would it take to live a life apart from this world and close to God? Could this even be done?

Emerging into something new!

2005-12-05T07:35:00.000-05:00

A quick note before the day begins~ It seems that there is a lot of information out there on the emerging conversation or the emergent church. I have read some of Brian McLaren's work, John Burke's work, and some others that are in the emerging conversation. I have found this work fascinating and insightful. If you want some book ideas read my profile or do a goggle search.
To my bloggers~ I will be going on a hike today to get some new snowy pictures, so I will end up blogging later in the day.

White Sox ticker-tape parade!

2005-12-04T17:56:00.000-05:00

This past fall I went to Chicago and saw the White Sox victory parade. I felt the Lord saying that this is how people act in this world. Everyone gets wrapped up into their own lives or communities around them and they forget about the bigger world that is out there. What community are you involved in? Is there a bigger picture than what you are involved in? Can you see this? Does it need to change for the better? Once a person crosses the "bridge of peace," we must not allow our lives to be so caught up in our own parades. Remember that God is doing something bigger than we could ever imagine (John 3:16 "world"). What can you do to change you perspective to see the world as it is the bigger picture? What can you do to change your perspective of your parade?

Bridge of Peace!

2005-12-03T09:04:00.000-05:00

As I look at this picture I think about my relationship with God. You start from a dark place or almost the bottom of the barrel and then you cross the bridge to get to the sunny side. It is amazing and interesting to just take time to think about my prior life with the Lord. Have you made your peace with God? Crossing over that bridge of peace allows you to play in the sunny golden side with God. How can you cross this bridge? What do you need to change in order to get in right standing with God? Why do we need a bridge of peace? Who is this bridge of peace? Does God see things like this or does He have a bigger picture of life? Do you think that maybe God is looking down on us, shaking His head, saying that we have got it all wrong? If so, how can we change our perspective to God's perspective?

Is that in the Bible?

2005-12-02T10:41:00.000-05:00

People say the funniest things. It's hard to explore God when some people quote the Bible and some people think they quote the Bible. Let me encourage you, if you speak the Bible, know that it is from the Bible. Remember that we are commanded to love people and show mercy (Matthew 5:7); it is Jesus who will judge their sins (Romans 2:16). But my question is what is true salvation? Is it all about ones eternal life? Could salvation incorporate our whole life? We process an eternal salvation, yet we live daily with a concern for the worst. Why not live in victory, which always us to look forward to the return of our Lord. Let us live what we preach. God is doing amazing things in our day; the Church must follow and practice what they preach. He's bringing a reformation of practice. So let us live out our salvation daily with the Lord; He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6)!

Exclusion or embrace?

2005-12-01T21:25:00.000-05:00

I just started reading Miroslav Volf's book Exclusion and Embrace, so you may read a lot of it throughout my blog. A thought that stuck in my mind all day is, do we exclude people or embrace them; regardless of their race, religion, and sex? Who have you excluded today or this past year, who have you embraced? Is there someone that you could embrace? If Jesus said go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19), then why are we excluding people? To make disciples we must not only embrace them, we must teach them on a daily bases. So, "makes someone else's day and you've made yours." Go and bless someone, embrace them as family, and guide them to Jesus.

Foggy bloggy!

2005-11-30T11:57:00.000-05:00

It seems so foggy out. This week hasn't been going too well, weather-wise. The Lord has been sticking it to me. He has been using my aunt to teach me some important lessons. One of the greatest lessons I believe is my aunt's quote; "make someone else's day and you've made your own." How does that work? What will it take for me to do this? Can I still do school and work at the same time? I think that these are some of the question the Thessalonian Church had for Paul. He simply stated to continue working, but at the same time bless those around you. Is there a way that we can bless people around us this holiday season? What would that look like? What would a world of blessing others look like? Can it be the sum of the Ten Commandments, as Jesus said love the Lord your God with all you heart, soul, and mind and love your neighbor as yourself. Could there be a world like this before the second coming of Jesus the Christ? So remember to "make someone else's day and you've made your own."~ C. Christensen (Take some time to review the beatitudes!)

There is more out there!

2005-11-29T05:58:00.000-05:00

I was watching a television program about Christianity and devastating events that take place. The Pastor blamed it on Free Will, he said that the people have free will and God is always wooing them to the correct answer or God's will. It's unfortunate that we blame the easiest possible answer. For the past 100-200 years we have been evangelizing this world by telling the people that God has a wonderful plan for their lives. That is a problem when you start talking to 9/11 victims and hurricane victims. If the Gospel does not work for them, then it cannot work for everyone. There is one God and one body. We must keep the message the same, but can we change the way we present it to people? In this world of no absolutes can we teach people that there is a God who is Just, Holy, and Righteous. That He will be judging us at the end of our life and we will have to pay the consequences. Likewise, we must realize that God is perhaps trying to teach us something through these events that take place in our lives. When people come up against tribulation some say that God doesn't want them to go further, but some persevere through it and keep moving forward. What have you done and stopped because you think that God was telling you to stop? Some have tried writing books, teaching, and/or studying new methods, but they have stopped because something slowed them down or brought them to a stop. What can you do to persevere? How can you redeem the time? If you knew that God wanted the best for you, what would you change? Should you be doing something else? What would it look like, how can it help God redeem the world?

There's more to a season!

2005-11-28T09:43:00.000-05:00

Again, this season was excellent as seen in these photos. As I review my fall photos I am reminded of what Scripture says in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, "To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven." I hope that you can read through these seasons and remind yourself that even if you are going through a horrible time at the moment, it is only a season. I have an excellent thought and/or question: Is there anyone you can bless today by helping them with your time or making them something as a craft? Is it always about number one? We need to start thinking about others first. One of my good friends once said that Joy is Jesus Others Yourself; this must be our order of response. Help yourself by helping others. It isn't about number one; Jesus said love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:38). This means that we love ourselves too much and our neighbors not enough.
Just prior to this statement Jesus said to love God with all your heart, soul and mind. So what can we do to show God love as well as our neighbor. What if God loves the people who you do not, and what if your neighbor is Buddhist or Muslim or Jewish? What could God be teaching us through this new season? Can we love those who are rejected and excluded?

This fall season!

2005-11-27T17:12:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful fall season the Lord gave us this year. I believe that this was the best or atleast the longest fall season we have had for a long time. I have several other photos that I have taken on my hikes, but this might be the most inspirational. I got to do a lot of hiking recently. The Lord has shown me Himself in new ways this fall season. I have learned to see the Lord in a more organic and living way. My relationship with Jesus is growing through my new encounters and experiences with Him. How has the Lord recently shown Himself differently to you?

Welcome!

2005-11-26T16:04:00.000-05:00

Welcome, first I would like to say thank you to my friend Jason for setting this up for me. I hope that this blog will benefit the body of Christ. Thanksgiving was just a few days ago, and I feel as though we must think about 1 Thessalonians 5:18, "in everything give thanks." What does this word "everything" mean? How can we give thanks if we cannot speak? What do we do if we are unable to move or think? Scripture says give thanks in everything. I am thankful for my wife, my family, and brothers and sisters in the Lord. What are you thankful for?