There is something about getting away from the everyday issues we face that helps to replenish the mind, body, soul, and spirit. While vacations are not a big part of my childhood memories, family times are. Those occasions when the aunts, uncles, and cousins got together at grandma and grandpa's house, or any other location, the normal activities of life were suspended with new and different excitement and activities becoming the experience of the day.
The older I become, the more I am aware of the importance of memories. The memories I have as a child, both good and bad, are part of what makes me the person I am today. Making memories for those who are younger, both my children and now my grandchildren has escalated in importance like I cannot believe. There is something deep within me that wants to pass on to the younger generation experiences and activities that I hope and pray will last a lifetime and will form them into better people as a result.
Vacation this week is not just about me getting away from the normal activities of my role as district superintendent. It is an opportunity to invest myself, in very personal ways, in the lives of the precious people God has entrusted to my care. Someday, they will have to make their own major decisions that will effect the rest of their lives (calling, vocation, marriage, etc.) but this week will be a week of influence. Not a time to pressure them toward anything. Just a week to hang out, spend time together, play together, laugh together, eat together, and become more of what we were created to be by the God who loves us so very much.
I pray this will be a great week.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Anonymous
I had a call today from Bro. Anonymous. Have you heard from him/her lately? From time to time I hear from him/her. The voices change and the church where they are from changes but I have learned that when they call, it can't be good. Today's was no exception.
Why do people write those letters and make those calls? You have received them haven't you? Do they really think you will take any action based on a stranger's or unknown individual's letter or call? Is it simply to harrass? Do they just need to vent? Are they trouble makers or just individuals who don't know what to do with their frustration, anger, or anxiety?
Ministry presents many challenges. They usually come in the form of people. While pastoring some years ago, I received an unsigned letter expressing my faults and failures. I always heard you should throw those letters away without reading them, but my curiosity was too great so to my regret, I read the letter and was quite agitated (have you felt that before?) as a result.
The temptation for us in ministry is to take responsibility for those around us and feel the weight for what goes on in the church. The truth, however, is that much that occurs has little to do with us, and more to do with what is happening in the lives of those around us. When people in the church experience frustration and anger, it may be directed at the pastor or leadership of the church (and at times it might even be appropriate) but much of the time it is more about them than about you as the leader.
The challenge for us is to separate our feelings and reactions to people from the issues that are on the surface, responding rationally rather than emotionally. Defensiveness and agression seldom achieve the desired results. The words of Proverbs ring true, "A soft answer turns away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger." God allows "Anonymous" to come along from time to time to help us become more like our Lord who was reviled but did not respond in kind. Anonymous will have to face the Judge some day, but in the meantime, don't allow any root of bitterness to creep into you heart. It is never worth it!
Why do people write those letters and make those calls? You have received them haven't you? Do they really think you will take any action based on a stranger's or unknown individual's letter or call? Is it simply to harrass? Do they just need to vent? Are they trouble makers or just individuals who don't know what to do with their frustration, anger, or anxiety?
Ministry presents many challenges. They usually come in the form of people. While pastoring some years ago, I received an unsigned letter expressing my faults and failures. I always heard you should throw those letters away without reading them, but my curiosity was too great so to my regret, I read the letter and was quite agitated (have you felt that before?) as a result.
The temptation for us in ministry is to take responsibility for those around us and feel the weight for what goes on in the church. The truth, however, is that much that occurs has little to do with us, and more to do with what is happening in the lives of those around us. When people in the church experience frustration and anger, it may be directed at the pastor or leadership of the church (and at times it might even be appropriate) but much of the time it is more about them than about you as the leader.
The challenge for us is to separate our feelings and reactions to people from the issues that are on the surface, responding rationally rather than emotionally. Defensiveness and agression seldom achieve the desired results. The words of Proverbs ring true, "A soft answer turns away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger." God allows "Anonymous" to come along from time to time to help us become more like our Lord who was reviled but did not respond in kind. Anonymous will have to face the Judge some day, but in the meantime, don't allow any root of bitterness to creep into you heart. It is never worth it!
Friday, July 18, 2008
A Tribute to Earl Stubbs
Many of you have heard by now that Earl Stubbs, missionary to India, had a massive heart attack Monday morning while preparing for the church's 25th Anniversary that he and his dear wife Arlene started 25 years ago. What a loss this is for so many people. Certainly his wife and family have our deepest sympathy, love, and prayers during this difficult time. His missionary colleagues will feel the vacuum of his death as well. Friends, ministers, and the church he began are all experiencing great loss. Certainly the kingdom of God has lost a mighty warrior. The PennDel District family grieve (though not as those who have no hope) for our friend who has been ushered into the presence of the Lord. The funeral for Brother Stubbs will take place at Central Assembly of God in Springfield, MO. Many of the family reside in the Springfield area. It will take place on Monday at 11:00 AM with a viewing immediately preceding.
I heard someone say recently, "Don't live your life as if God is there to make you safe and comfortable until the day you die." Think about it... That is profound. And so true. I doubt Bro. Stubbs would have been called a radical by those who knew him, but he did live radically. He was passionate about his relationship with the Lord, made the commitment to follow Jesus, and lived out that commitment by going to the nation where his Lord called him and to a city where no Pentecostal believers were known to live. The dynamic of the Spirit was critical to his success. The church began through an intervention of the Spirit and they experienced, along with the trials and difficulties, the miraculous anointing of God upon their lives and ministry.
We (Marjie and I) had the privilege of hosting the Stubbs as a missionaries while they were raising their budget in the churches where we pastored. His humility and grace prevented any self-glorying in the work they accomplished. The church they planted has grown to now number in the thousands. That is not what I will remember Earl Stubbs for. To me the outstanding characteristics of Bro. Stubbs was his character, humility, and love. If you spoke with him, you might not have classified him as a charismatic person or a dynamic leader. But in fact he was. He influence will be felt for time and eternity through the multitudes who came to know Jesus through his service for Christ.
I heard someone say recently, "Don't live your life as if God is there to make you safe and comfortable until the day you die." Think about it... That is profound. And so true. I doubt Bro. Stubbs would have been called a radical by those who knew him, but he did live radically. He was passionate about his relationship with the Lord, made the commitment to follow Jesus, and lived out that commitment by going to the nation where his Lord called him and to a city where no Pentecostal believers were known to live. The dynamic of the Spirit was critical to his success. The church began through an intervention of the Spirit and they experienced, along with the trials and difficulties, the miraculous anointing of God upon their lives and ministry.
We (Marjie and I) had the privilege of hosting the Stubbs as a missionaries while they were raising their budget in the churches where we pastored. His humility and grace prevented any self-glorying in the work they accomplished. The church they planted has grown to now number in the thousands. That is not what I will remember Earl Stubbs for. To me the outstanding characteristics of Bro. Stubbs was his character, humility, and love. If you spoke with him, you might not have classified him as a charismatic person or a dynamic leader. But in fact he was. He influence will be felt for time and eternity through the multitudes who came to know Jesus through his service for Christ.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Kids
Marjie and I just returned from Kids Camp in Carlisle, with the theme "Deal or No Deal". With some 500 campers, the week is an exciting and thrilling time for the kids. George Krebs is an incredible inspiration and motivator of the children and has a tremendous group of adult sponsors who assist and work with these precious young people. Two weeks ago we attended the Youth Camp, led by Doug Sayers who conducted a great Youth Camp. These weeks at the Conference Center provide opportunity for the youth of our district to get away from the normal schedule at home and be exposed to the Word, Worship, and fun times where their lives are often radically changed by the power of God. Many receive Christ as Savior and Lord, are baptized in the Holy Spirit, healed of both physical and emotional hurts, and challenged to live for God and share their faith with others when they return home.
Traversing the journey of life and faith requires a multitude of exposures to the presence of God in many different contexts. Those who miss the opportunity to have their young people to experience this, have missed an incredible opportunity to influence them for the good. With the multitude of influences toward the world that our youth are exposed to on a daily bases, these special opportunities in the presence of God are special times of grace. We owe a great debt of gratitude to the leaders of our churches who sacrifice of their time and treasure to see to it that their kids are provided with this camping experience. Thank you pastors, youth, children's leaders and pastors for the great work you do for the kingdom of God. May we never forget the important place the young people have in the heart of God.
Traversing the journey of life and faith requires a multitude of exposures to the presence of God in many different contexts. Those who miss the opportunity to have their young people to experience this, have missed an incredible opportunity to influence them for the good. With the multitude of influences toward the world that our youth are exposed to on a daily bases, these special opportunities in the presence of God are special times of grace. We owe a great debt of gratitude to the leaders of our churches who sacrifice of their time and treasure to see to it that their kids are provided with this camping experience. Thank you pastors, youth, children's leaders and pastors for the great work you do for the kingdom of God. May we never forget the important place the young people have in the heart of God.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Missions
As my #50 post on my blog, it seems appropriate that missions is my topic. Jubilee is the 50 year celebration of liberty, freedom, setting the captive free. This week has been a great experience at the AGWM School of Missions. The incredible expansion of the kingdom around the world is encouraging indeed.
The AG was founded with a primary purpose of reaching the world for Christ. That purpose and passion continue to drive us as people of God. No one I know would claim the AG is perfect, but we are grateful for the opportunity of being part of something so much bigger than any of us. One theme we heard this week was the importance of right procedures. Obviously, the anointing of the Spirit, the gift of tongues, the planting of church, right doctrine, and the training for ministry are critical parts of God's plan for his people. In addition, the indigenous church principle has been a cornerstone of the AG missions philosophy. The results of that approach (self-supporting, self-governing, self-propagating churches) has brought success in the missions endeavor that has surpassed all expectations. With a global constituency of now approaching 60 million people, the task continues to be great. While God has done incredible things through our fellowship, may we not grow weary in well doing, i.e., missions efforts.
The world is our mission field. That includes the USA as well as lands across the sea and those within our own borders, i.e., home and foreign missions. May we recommit ourselves to the Great Commission as givers/senders, goers, and prayers. We can accomplish God's purpose as we are committed together to the cause of Christ.
The AG was founded with a primary purpose of reaching the world for Christ. That purpose and passion continue to drive us as people of God. No one I know would claim the AG is perfect, but we are grateful for the opportunity of being part of something so much bigger than any of us. One theme we heard this week was the importance of right procedures. Obviously, the anointing of the Spirit, the gift of tongues, the planting of church, right doctrine, and the training for ministry are critical parts of God's plan for his people. In addition, the indigenous church principle has been a cornerstone of the AG missions philosophy. The results of that approach (self-supporting, self-governing, self-propagating churches) has brought success in the missions endeavor that has surpassed all expectations. With a global constituency of now approaching 60 million people, the task continues to be great. While God has done incredible things through our fellowship, may we not grow weary in well doing, i.e., missions efforts.
The world is our mission field. That includes the USA as well as lands across the sea and those within our own borders, i.e., home and foreign missions. May we recommit ourselves to the Great Commission as givers/senders, goers, and prayers. We can accomplish God's purpose as we are committed together to the cause of Christ.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Freedom
The American ideal of freedom conveys the idea of lack of restraint. When you are free, you are able to do whatever you desire. There are no limitations. You can achieve, accomplish, be successful, possess, and travel as you so wish. The American dream is often typified in the purchase of a home. The ownership of one's own demonstrates the status of success that anyone can attain. With increased resources, knowledge, and skill, we are free.
At one level, most would concur with the positive nature of this freedom. Some would read Scripture and extrapolate that the freedom we receive in Christ liberates the believer to escape limitations. "Whom the Son has set free, he is free indeed." More than one "Christian" has felt free to follow their personal preferences in the name of freedom and followed the path of what is sometimes known as libertarianism (not the political party), giving a license to do anything, including sin.
The biblical truth of freedom in Christ is not a freedom to do as one wishes, but a freedom from sin, the power of death, and the devil. We celebrate our political freedom on July 4th, made possible through the sacrifice of those who fought and died for the rights we have as Americans. Jesus purchased our salvation through his own death on the tree providing freedom for us. Not the freedom of self-indulgence and personal choice, but the spiritual freedom that liberates the heart to fully be all God has created us to be.
These thoughts may not be new, but they are profound.
At one level, most would concur with the positive nature of this freedom. Some would read Scripture and extrapolate that the freedom we receive in Christ liberates the believer to escape limitations. "Whom the Son has set free, he is free indeed." More than one "Christian" has felt free to follow their personal preferences in the name of freedom and followed the path of what is sometimes known as libertarianism (not the political party), giving a license to do anything, including sin.
The biblical truth of freedom in Christ is not a freedom to do as one wishes, but a freedom from sin, the power of death, and the devil. We celebrate our political freedom on July 4th, made possible through the sacrifice of those who fought and died for the rights we have as Americans. Jesus purchased our salvation through his own death on the tree providing freedom for us. Not the freedom of self-indulgence and personal choice, but the spiritual freedom that liberates the heart to fully be all God has created us to be.
These thoughts may not be new, but they are profound.
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