Paul Lewis' Blog

Another Miracle!

2008-11-10T12:26:00.002-07:00

I know that there has been more miracles in my life than I deserve. In fact, I don't deserve any, but I am grateful that God has shown up in a variety of miraculous ways in my life.

Until Saturday night I hadn't slept in bed since last Saturday because I bruised a couple of ribs on Sunday not watching where I was going.

I know that several people were praying for me and I was able to sleep in bed all night and Sunday the pain in my ribs, hip, and knees was very tolerable. Today I am mostly tired because it's Monday, but I can tell that everything is on the mend.

Praise God for such a dramatic change in pain levels and tolerance!

Why, But NOT Why Me?!

2008-11-07T08:13:00.002-07:00

I have learned over the past several years that the pain control systems in my body have taken over. What used to be common aches and pains that I could easily push through have become a littany of major pain episodes that pain killers don't impact.

Several years ago, when I received the diagnosis of why I was in so much pain, I at least had an answer. Since that time, we have been chasing a moving target to keep my pain levels under control. A common injury which should normally lead to about a 3 or 4 pain level is for me a 6 or 7. When I have an injury, the pain levels are off the charts and the fatigue that comes with it is debilitating.

I am usually able to push through to some extent. I try to take a nap every day which helps, and my physical activity is severely limited to minimize the magnification of the pain levels.

In the past several weeks I have been dealing with heightened pain levels in my left knee and hip which have made walking unbearable. Vicodin barely touches the pain and I can't function when I am on it. I finally saw the Dr. this week and we will begin a shot series in the hip soon.

On Sunday I fell and came down on the curb of a parking island. I bruised a couple of ribs on my left side. The Dr. put me on Percocet to help with the unbearable pain. It is more powerful than Vicodin, but I don't function well on it. The first few days of the week I tried working in the morning and then going home to rest and take the heavy meds. After not being able to sleep in bed and the pain level not decreasing, I stayed home on Thursday and Friday to stay on the meds and completely rest in hopes that I can get over the severe pain and function more.

I don't know if the pain would be much less before the pain issues, but that doesn't really matter right now. The pain is rediculous. I can't lie down, I can't sleep, I can't concentrate, it's really frustrating! I know that rib injuries take time to heal, but when I broke a rib a couple of years ago, it was very painful, but not as debilitating.

So, I admit, that I have asked God, "Why?" I would understand more with just the pain. I could get a lot of work done. But I can't focus to read or write (I just took meds so I have a bit of a window before they kick in). So why would God allow this? His purpose is always greater than my own, so I know he knows what he is doing. I don't question that. I'm just seeking to understand that purpose.

Since all of this pain and fatigue stuff started, I have asked many times, "Why?", but have never asked, "Why me?" I think that God has protected me from that. I still get frustrated, as now, but I trust that God is working in me to accomplish his purpose. I just wish I knew what it is!

We The People

2008-11-07T08:04:00.002-07:00

"We the people", the first three words of the US Constitution. On Tuesday, November 4th, 2008, the people of the United States voted. We voted on national, state, and local issues and positions. For the first time in our history, an African-American has been elected president.

Some states had measures to define marriage as being between one man and one woman. It seems silly that there should be a question about that, but it is a major issue. In California, the state where I was mostly raised, the issue passed, but will be challenged in the courts. It seems incredulous that seven people will decide if "We the People" matters in California. This is a scary thought! The issue now goes beyond marriage to the constitutional issue of self determination. Unfortunately, judges have been legislating from the bench for some time. This will be a significant test to see if democracy is truly broken at least in the state of CA. Please be praying the the CA supreme court and the people of that state.

More Politics: I Love Gay People!

2008-10-28T08:22:00.002-07:00

I am as uncomfortable around a gay couple as I am around a married couple who are over the tip in their public make-out sessions. Jesus called us to love all people, not just the ones that we are comfortable around. I am not condoning the sin of any extra-marital sexual activity regardless of who is doing it, or with whom they are doing it. Jesus showed his love to a prostitute. I don't know if he was uncomfortable or not, I suspect not, but he is our example.

I am glad that Palm Valley Church is a safe place for anyone to come to find Jesus. I know that there have been and probably are some attending who have or are practicing the homosexual lifestyle. Like any other sinful behavior, they need to see the love of Jesus and learn to follow him in their actions.

Several states have ballot measures for a constitutional amendment to define marriage as being between one man and one woman, and nothing else. Several have argued that the government doesn't belong in the bedroom. I am quite sure that most don't really believe that. Greg made a create comment in the message this weekend that the government is already in the bedroom. It is already illegal to have sex with animals, and with children. These acts are seen as outside acceptable norms for society. If you look at history, defining marriage as anything other than one man and one woman is moving outside acceptable norms for a society. No culture has survived once they removed this stipulation.

I read in the paper today something that I hadn't thought of. If alternate forms of marriage are made the law, would pastors be forced to do them or face lawsuits or ultimately jail? I think that we would be a long ways from that, but it would be a possibility. I think that you would have a lot of poor pastors (like that isn't the case now!), or a lot of pastors in jail!

Protecting marriage isn't forcing religion on others. It is protecting decency in our society. Those who live alternate lifestyles already have protections available to them. They are only being denied what is preserved for others. Life isn't fair or equal, just like 17 year olds can't vote and 14 year olds can't drive.

Support for marriage doesn't mean that I don't love gay people. I believe that their lifestyle is sin, but they are sinners, like me, in need of a savior, who is Jesus Christ.

Voter Fraud

2008-10-27T08:20:00.002-07:00

You wouldn't think this would be an issue here in the USA, but unfortunately it is. There are so many states with investigations going on right now it's ridiculous and it should concern everyone regardless of what party or candidate you support.

We keep hearing stories of quotas for registrations and people being paid based on those quotas. Does anyone else see a problem here? People say that registration fraud isn't the same as voter fraud and it isn't something to worry that much about. With the rise of identity theft, it is easy to create identities so that false registrations can turn into false votes.

Here's a simple solution to part of the problem. Pass a federal electoral registration law that makes registration processes uniform across the country. Make registration quotas illegal. Make it illegal to pay someone for collecting any registration that has not been verified. Quotas shouldn't be necessary because what does it matter if someone collects one or one hundred registrations? You can have as many people as you want encouraging registration, and if you are only paying for verified registrations, you eliminate the pressure and temptation to get creative with your numbers.

Sure there need to be other safeguards, but this alone would greatly reduce the problem we are facing around the country right now. It isn't rocket science!

Vacation is Over

2008-10-20T09:21:00.002-07:00

In the past couple of weeks, I have taken some time off to rest, rejuvinate, and spend time with my family. Paige and I had the opportunity to spend a couple of days in Carefree and had a great time together. It is a beautiful area just north of Phoenix. Spending time with her at place away from home where we get to see God's creation is something that fills my tank. It something that we try to do several times each year, even if it is just an overnight thing.

Last week we got to go camping with both boys up in Oak Creek just outside of Sedona. Paige and I love going to Sedona but had never taken the boys up there. It was great spending time together and having them along to set up the tent was really helpful!

We came back to a really busy weekend at church, but there were several decisions for Christ, so it was well worth it!

It is important to take time to get away, and the older I get, I am realizing that I need it more than I used to. I am learning the ways that my tank gets emptied and what it takes to refill it.

Respect for Leaders

2008-10-20T08:32:00.002-07:00

As we enter the last few weeks of the presidential race, the airwaves will be filled with fantastic and fanatical claims for and against those running for office, those in office, and the propositions to be voted on. The new series here at PVC is focused on these times. Our "Letters to the Next President" series is meant to show the significance of leadership in our society and to remind people that it is God who puts people into leadership roles, and it is he who removes them.

I have to admit that in my lifetime we have had some presidents that I have not liked. But in my dislike, if I had the opportunity to meet one of them I would consider it an honor. I was taught to respect authority. I may not agree with them, but because of their position I will respect them. This goes for pastors, teachers, police, fire, and other leaders in our community. The vile hatred being spewed out from many including "Christians" is amazing to me. People want someone to blame for everything that isn't perfect in their lives. They want someone to blame for things that they perceive as wrong choices, even though they don't have all of the facts.

I can't imagine the decisions that a president has to make. He makes them based on the information that he is given by trusted advisors. Sometimes those decisions are wrong. Don't forget, he is human!

So what can we do? Pray for our leaders, whomever they are and whatever their position of authority. That includes your boss at work. We can encourage them when given the opportunity. We can show them respect. We can be respectful even when we disagree with them. We can trust that God knows what he is doing!

Who Do You Love Most?

2008-10-02T14:40:00.004-07:00

It should be an easy question, "Who do you love most?" Of course, the "Christian" answer is God. I thought that would be my answer too, but now I'm not so sure.

In the men's Bible study group I attend on Thursday mornings we are studying Psalm 119 and the impact that God's Word should have on our lives. One thing that came up today was where we place our love for the Bible in our list of things that we love.

The quick response of course is that we love the Bible, God's Word, more than anything else. Really?! The reality check comes when I put it up against my wife. I love my wife. Do I love her more than I love the Bible? Would I rather spend time with her than in the Word? I'm not saying that we should choose one or the other, but I am saying that we need to make sure that our priorities are correct and that if a choice has to be made, we would choose wisely.

When life gets hectic and events and circumstances crowd your schedule, whose time gets reduced, time with your spouse, or time with God in His Word?

I honestly can't think of a time that I have ever told my wife to wait while I finish my time in the Bible. In fairness to myself, I don't know that the situation has ever come up, but I think that I would probably choose wrongly!

I love the Bible, and one of the greatest joys of my life is helping others to fall in love with it as well. My hope is that I fall in love with it more myself!

Some People Just Get It, and Some Don't!

2008-09-23T07:33:00.003-07:00

I have had two conversations in the past few days that shows me that some people get it, and some don't. It was actually a surprise as to which one got it.

A few days ago, I followed up with a pastor that I had spoken with about ministering to new believers. I had sent him the materials that we use here at Palm Valley Church and wanted to see how things were going. I speak with people from churches about our ministry to new believers every couple of months and I like to see how they have implemented a similar ministry where they are. This pastor shared that he wasn't able to implement anything because his elders thought they were doing just fine as they were. They just don't get it!

Yesterday, I got a call from an eighty year old lady who was so excited she could hardly stand it. She was at a friend's house this weekend and some other friends came and brought the Fresh Start Packet that they had just received at PVC that morning. In all of her years walking with Christ, she shared that she had never seen such a wonderful resource for new believers. She wants to have her pastor contact us to learn more. She gets it!

Ministering to new believers is different! It's often messy, and your heart will break hearing the stories of lives messed up by sin. But, it is so rewarding when you see the joy they have received in Christ! To see God work in people's lives and change them so completely is amazing. Most who come to us to grow in their faith have never even picked up a Bible, or if they have, they haven't read much and don't know much about it. What a privilege to come alongside these people to partner with them as they take their first steps in faith. It is humbling and often overwhelming to be used by God in this way.

The reward is walking around the church campus on a weekend and seeing the many who have come to Christ here and are now growing and serving. They are connected to Home Teams and Ministry Teams in every area of the church. To me, that is success. Unfortunately, there are still many who make a decision, but never begin walking with Christ. We still have so much to do! Fortunately, our ministry team gets it!

The Navy Has Arrived in Arizona!

2008-09-17T08:04:00.002-07:00

OK, not the whole Navy, but one particular Navy Seal. Yesterday I had the privilege to pick up Chris from the airport and help him surprise his family with an unexpected visit. He shared with me how many people, when told he was heading to Arizona, asked him if he knew that we don't have an ocean here.

Chris has spent time in my home. He is a friend of Josh's, and he accepted Christ here at Palm Valley Church. He attended a New Believer Growth Group in my home and was baptized here. His father accepted Christ and was baptized at PVC too.

Chris is now in the Navy, going through Seal training. He told me that he may soon be sent to Iraq. There isn't much waterfront in Iraq, but I guess they make the most of it! As we drove, he shared his experiences and assured me that he is still strong in his faith. He shared the many ways his faith has been challenged, and how Satan had tried to convince him that he wasn't doing what God wanted him to do, and how he overcame those thoughts.

I am so proud of him! I am certainly proud that he is serving our country, but more importantly, he is serving God in what he does, and there is nothing more worthy than that, no matter what the job is!

It is such a privilege to get to see how this young man has grown in Christ. Praise God!

God Is Into Numbers

2008-09-16T07:41:00.002-07:00

God is into numbers! That's why there is a book in the Bible entitled, "Numbers". Numbers matter because each number is a person whom God loves. Numbers matter because they represent the lives God has called us to serve and to minister to. It's not about the numbers, but the numbers remind us what it's about.

Having said that, here are some numbers that are important in my life right now:

15 - people are interested in the New Believer Growth Group starting Wednesday night
12 - people who are confirmed that they are coming to the NBGG
2 - people who were signed up for the NBGG one week ago

318 - people who have made some sort of decision at Palm Valley Church from the beginning of the year to the end of August
137 - people have gone to the Fresh Start table to learn more about their decision through August
70 - people have attended the Fresh Start Class through August
22% - of all decisions that have attended the FS Class
51% - of people who came to the FS table that have attended the FS Class
40 - people per month make a decision to connect or re-connect with God at PVC
17 - people per month come to the FS table to learn more about their decision
9 - people per month attend the FS Class

I know that our numbers for the New Believer Growth Group attendance are incorrect, so we will be working on those.

What this shows me is that God continues to change lives at Palm Valley Church! It shows me that people want to grow in their faith. It shows me that if they will come to the FS table, more than half will continue to the next step in their walk with Christ.

What these numbers also show me how much work we have still to do!

The numbers show me that 181 people didn't come to the FS table. The numbers show me that 67 people didn't take the next step after coming to the FS table.

Then, I am reminded that it is our job to plant seeds, and to water, as the Lord provides opportunity, but it is He that causes the growth. We are to be diligent in doing everything He leads us to do, to create opportunities for people to connect and grow in their faith, but it is God, working in the hearts of these people who draws them to Himself.

Our job is to remain faithful!

O Ye of Little Faith!

2008-09-15T07:46:00.003-07:00

Early last week we only had two people signed up for our next New Believer Growth Group which begins Wednesday, September 17th. I sent an email to a couple of leaders asking them to think and pray with me about moving it back a couple of weeks.

I no sooner than hit the send button that the Holy Spirit nailed me for my lack of faith! People usually sign up at the last minute for these groups, so why was I giving up? I began to pray, first for forgiveness, then for God to bring people who wanted to grow in Him.

Every day since, we have had people sign up. How cool is that! Add to that the fact that we had 11 people come to the Fresh Start table after just the 8:30 and 10:00 services!

God continues to move in a big way around here and I just need to remember that the best place for me to be is on my knees. I need to continue to learn to trust the Holy Spirit's leading. When he leads us to set a launch date for a group, I need to trust that he will take care of who will be coming.

Praise God for his faithfulness!

Ultimate Fighter

2008-09-10T09:00:00.003-07:00

Our new series here at Palm Valley Church is Ultimate Fighter. I'm not much of a UFC fan, though I have watched a couple of bouts. Having said that, I am a huge fan of this series! It gives us the opportunity to show men that they don't have to check their manhood at the door in order to follow Christ. Men who would never otherwise attend church are coming.

We had more men than women make decisions this week. That is so awesome!

The staging is spectacular. You really feel like you are at a UFC event. Putting the drums and guitar on 6' high platforms behind the octagon is huge!

Greg is so pumped about this series and you can see it in his preaching. Not that he ever takes a series off, but I know that this series has been percolating in him for a long time. It's cool to see it play out as he envisioned.

The vibe around church right now is cool. People are so excited to be inviting people, and when those people make decisions for Christ, they are really pumped.

I can't wait to see what happens next week!

Change Doesn't Just Happen

2008-08-26T07:43:00.003-07:00

On occasion, God, by his miraculous power, will suddenly change us. When that happens it is awe inspiring. The thing is, that is the exception not the rule. We see over and over again in Scripture the stories of people who changed over time.

It is through God's power that we are changed, but it often takes time. Habits and personality traits that have been ingrained for years, are difficult to change. We are urged in the Bible to be "transformed by the renewing of our mind". That happens by focusing on Christ, studying and knowing his Word, and applying it to our lives.

It also means strategic focus on key areas we are seeking to change. For most of my Christian life I have desired to bear the spiritual fruit of gentleness. I am often like a bull in a china shop (I know that comes as a surprise to those who know me), yet I know the trait exists within me because I have seen it many times. For whatever reason, God has chosen not to suddenly make me a gentle person. A couple of months ago, I decided to make a concerted effort in the coming year to focus on this area of my life. I have even done some counseling to begin the journey. I have purchased some books to work through and am studying Scripture on the topic. It will take time, and prayer.

Why would God use someone who isn't gentle in ministry? I often ask that question myself. Then God shows me the countless "idiots" in the Bible that he used to do significant work for his kingdom.

In what area of your life do you wish to change? Are you working on it, just wishing God would suddenly change you? If you have prayed for him to change you, and you haven't changed, he is telling you that you need to struggle through it. When we struggle with things, our faith grows, our perseverance grows, and we are better able to help others with the struggle. As Greg says, "Our greatest area of weakness is potentially our greatest area of ministry."

Thank God every day that he is still willing to use you. I do!

Great Teaching

2008-08-21T09:15:00.002-07:00

Yesterday we had a Leadership Development Day which in itself is a cool idea. In other churches I have been at, we called it the Leadership Community. It is a gathering of our full-time staff and our volunteer staff (key ministry leaders who we see as staff members). Greg did a great job teaching and we watched a video from Andy Stanley. Andy is one of the best speakers of our time, though he goes a little fast for taking notes!

Andy's talk was on integrity as a leader. It was great stuff and so important. One thing he said that really stuck out to me is, "An open door isn't necessarily an invitation from God." That's pretty profound. We often judge answered prayer by this factor. If a door opens, we assume that we are to go through it. He said to weigh every opportunity against these three measures:

1. The Law of God
2. The Principles of God
3. The Wisdom of God

It may seem right, put if you step back and think for a moment, and weigh it against these three principles, you will be clearer if it is from God or not. There are many things which seem right to man. Sometimes it is a good opportunity, but not in God's timing. We may be short circuiting God's plan if we take the easy way out, and end up missing an opportunity to see his power in action.

Good News - Bad News

2008-08-19T07:58:00.003-07:00

After waiting for nearly three months, I finally saw a back specialist yesterday. I was looking forward to coming up with a game plan, whatever it entailed, to get my back so that I could function more fully. It has gotten so bad that sometimes I have to ride around on the scooters when shopping. I usually can't stand for very long without the pressure in my back becoming overwhelming. Adding this to the rest of my ailments has been very limiting.

I took two sets of MRI films for comparison. My back continues to get worse, even though I have done traction, physical therapy and exercise, taking supplements, changed my diet, epidurals, and various medications.

So, the good news was that I don't need surgery at this point. Praise God! I wasn't looking forward to that prospect, but I wanted a solution. The bad news is that there isn't anything more beyond what we are doing that we can do. In fact, it appears that the Fibromyalgia is making it worse and is a major source of the pain.

I was so frustrated! All that I could think of was Paul when God refused to take away his "thorn" and told him, "My grace is sufficient for you." I know that Lord, but in my humanness I was hopeful and praying for a different result.

So what now? Paige wants me to cut back a little bit more, but I'm not sure where I would do that. Nor am I sure that it would be of additional help to how much I have already cut back. I am praying for guidance and wisdom right now and trusting that God's grace is indeed sufficient. I do know that I will continue to do all that he gives me strength to do. He compels me to do what I am doing, and I find great joy in working with new believers and the other things I do around here at Palm Valley. Pain or no pain, I will serve him and praise him as long as he gives me breath, and even then, I am sure that I will serve him in heaven.

Olympic Politics

2008-08-13T08:13:00.003-07:00

OK, I'm going political. We are having a blast watching the Olympics. Michael Phelps is amazing and fun to watch. The contrast of the men's and women's gymnastics teams is profound.

I am certainly disappointed with the whole women's gymnastics fiasco. I'm not saying that the girls deserved to win, because they made enough mistakes that they didn't earn it. I am wondering however, about the ages of the Chinese gymnasts. There are reports with "evidence" (not seen) that at least two of the girls aren't actually old enough to compete. The IOC's response is that since they showed a passport with the appropriate age, that they meet the standard, and won't investigate.

I'm not really commenting about that whole thing, but what I want to mention is the way that teams, including the USA have chosen to handle the situation. No one has filed an official protest, so there is no reason for the IOC to investigate further. Even if the reports are true, we may never know, and always wonder.

What I see in this though, is the decision to focus on the greater purpose. China is beginning to open its doors to the world. They have welcomed people from around the world to see them in action (even if there are some smoke and mirror tricks). The USA and other countries have chosen to pick their battles wisely. They see the greater purpose in encouraging China to open up, rather than to challenge them at every turn.

I commend our teams, who are often seen as arrogant snobs, for their care and graciousness in a variety of situations that could be real controversies. I even love that when the French relay team was talking smack, our guys just went out and beat them, and didn't say anything in response.

When we work with new believers it is often messy. People come to Christ with lots of baggage. The focus isn't on getting their lives cleaned up, it is on drawing them closer to Christ so that he can change their hearts, and lives, in his timing. Sometimes you have to bite your tongue, but there is a greater purpose - Leading them to become fully devoted followers of Christ!

Hebrew Fun

2008-08-12T08:23:00.003-07:00

My office looks like an explosion of Hebrew linguistics took place. What began as a simple study of the concept of stewardship exploded into Greek and Hebrew word studies and a new view of work.

In Genesis 2:15 it says that God placed man in the garden to tend and care for it. It sounds simple enough, that is, until you dive in to see what that really means.

The Hebrew word that we translate "tend" means to "work". This is before the fall. Work is not a curse from the Lord. God cursed the land (See Genesis 3:17).

To care for the land means "to take great care". In other words, it is like tending to something precious. Think about caring for a baby. It is work, but not drudgery. And, you don't just care for a baby like a babysitter does, you take extra special care because it is yours and means something special to you.

I have long understood that we are to work "as to the Lord", but I had never thought of work in the context of worship. Think about it. Isn't honoring what God created a way to honor the creator? Isn't taking special care of what he has entrusted to you a form of worship? If so, then our work is a form of worship. As we go about our day, doing the "tasks" necessary in our jobs, we are actually expressing our love for God.

Being a steward is simply another form of worship, like singing and praying. Take special care in what you do to honor God through it!

Drug OD

2008-08-11T08:11:00.002-07:00

Yesterday was a strange day! About midway through our 8:30 service, I still couldn't cool down from being outside (It wasn't even that hot!). My vision started doing weird things. I wasn't feeling bad, which made it that much more puzzling. By the end of service I couldn't see strait and I was a bit woozy. There was huge pressure on my eyes. It was like I was wearing someone else's glasses. I wasn't dizzy, but I was very confused at what was happening.

Paige took me home. She and Ryan helped me to the car. Once I got home I went strait to bed. Paige put some cool wet cloths on me to cool my body down (though I didn't think that I was overheated). I slept for a while.

Throughout the day my vision slowly got better, but wasn't clear until this morning. I had some bouts with nausea and feeling flush. Cool wet cloths helped.

Food went down fine. After dinner, when I took my evening medications, I was thinking that I was short one. Of course it wasn't until after I took them that I thought to take inventory.

So, I think that I took an extra pill in the morning. I'm not sure which one, but I think I double dosed myself. I basically OD'd!

It was scary to say the least. It was really scary for Paige. I hated missing out on what God did at church the rest of the day, but I have a great ministry team who covered things just fine without me!

I'm a little hung over today, but back at it. I'll be hitting Walgreen's at lunch to get a pill organizer to keep my medications separated.

Praise God for his protection!

Blog Break is Over!

2008-08-11T08:05:00.002-07:00

After taking a break from blogging for the past month, it's time to get back at it. I took a break for a number of reasons.
1 - I was crazy busy! Not that I'm not busy now, but during the break we moved, and life in general was just KAOS.
2 - I was spending some extra time talking with God, and listening.
3 - Blogging became tedious and I want it to be meaningful to me, and to those who read it.

So, I felt that it was time to dive back in. God has been showing me a lot and has been doing mighty things in my life and around me in the lives of others that I know.

Thanks for reading!

Stork Season!

2008-07-02T08:17:00.002-07:00

No, we aren't having any more kids, but it seems everyone around us is!

It started with Derrick and Kim welcoming Jude. Then, Michael and Heidi brought home Harrison. Mike and Jeanette brought home Dani. The latest is Daniel and Violet who just welcomed Riley last night. It looks like there are about 20 at church that are close to delivery as well. It sure is keeping the stork's busy! The score is currently 2 and 2 and Brent and Jessica are expecting too.

It's raining babies!

Congratulations to all!

Vacation Time!

2008-07-02T08:07:00.002-07:00

Starting tomorrow, I will be on vacation until July 12th! I am so ready. It will be a combination vacation. We will spend a few days at home (mostly packing to move), and a couple of days out of town. We'll celebrate Paige's birthday on the 4th (along with the rest of the country) here in town.

We aren't taking the boys with us, but we are heading to cool country for a couple of days at the beginning of next week. Sedona has become our favorite escape location. It isn't a long drive, but it is far enough away that we can disconnect. It will be about 90, but that is still 20-25 degrees cooler than here. I can't wait to spend the time alone with Paige just hanging out together, celebrating God's creation.

When we get home, we're going to be doing the first stage of our move back to our Palm Valley house. With my back the way it is, I can't do any woodworking, so we are putting most of my tools and equipment in storage to make more room in the garage. I hope that I can one day get back to my toys! We will do the main move with movers in a couple more weeks.

By the way, today is my sister-in-law Terri's birthday, so happy birthday sis!

Boys to Men

2008-06-26T10:10:00.004-07:00

Let me make it clear up front, this post is not about a boy band!

I just wanted to take a moment to say how proud I am of the young men my boys have become! You can never say that you are proud of them enough, nor can you ever tell them that you love them enough, but I try, and not just verbally.

We have been blessed by God to have two amazing sons. We have been fortunate to not have had some of the struggles that many families face, and we are thankful to God for that. Joshua and Caleb both love Jesus, and that is what matters most.

Joshua is wise and caring. He is amazing to watch as he interacts with people. He works at Family Christian Stores and is being trained for management. He has many regular customers. I love the stories he tells about people he meets. I love when he calls to get advise or a recommendation for someone he is helping. He is also a sports nut like me, but even more so (He can rattle off stats of baseball players from the 1920's!). He is so fun to go to a game with because he knows the smallest details about most of the players - of almost any sport! Yes, he's still single and living at home, but I know God has great plans for him. He just took a week off of work to help with kids camp and had a blast. He even painted his head when he got back as a "reward" to the kids. He devours books like no one I know. I love just hanging out with him.

Caleb is creative and deep. His artistic ability constantly astounds me, in any medium, including computer work. He is our thinker. He contemplates what he is learning about God and how he can apply it to his life. He is now a junior at Southwestern College (how time flies). He spends most of his free time working on things for church. He leads the tech ministry for our KidZone. I know God has huge plans for him. He has a lady friend, but we will have to see what God has in store for him. He is a movie buff (as is Joshua), and he is hysterically funny when he recites lines from movies (not just then, but especially then). I wouldn't be surprised to see him become a para-military youth pastor!

Both boys can work on their own cars and have a good grasp on fixing things and using tools (I'm very proud of that fact!). They love hanging out together, which at times we wondered if they wouldn't kill each other before getting to this stage. We are so glad that they have grown together. I used to say that they were the worst of enemies and the best of friends. I am so thankful that the best of friends part has won out! They both are deeply insightful and so fun to talk with. Conversations on family vacations have always been more than entertaining.

I know that they both will carry a legacy of faith into their own families, and know that they will be great dads and husbands.

OK, I think that I have embarrassed them enough!

The Battle Within

2008-06-23T08:41:00.003-07:00

God revealed to me this weekend why I struggle so much in one area of my life. For nearly all of my younger years, until I was about thirty, I was focused on succeeding in life to impress my father. It seemed that nothing I could do made him proud, at least he lever expressed it if he was. I went from sport to sport, job to job, trying to be the best so that I would get noticed. I was only successful at a couple of sports, but that didn't do it. I was very successful at just about everything I did in business (primarily in engineering and manufacturing). At about thirty, I realized that I was focused on pleasing the wrong person and began focusing on pleasing God and my wife Paige.

I was meditating on the Apostle Paul's teaching that we must decrease and he must increase in our lives. I realized that even though my desire is to have Christ magnified in my life, I still struggle with a desire to be recognized for achieving and being successful. The Bible teaches that we are to do all things for God's glory and to work hard for him. The battle is apparent when I receive praise for a job well done. One part of my brain says that it's one more success story, while another part is humbly praising God for using me to accomplish His purposes.

I don't even think that it's a pride thing. I don't think that I'm saying look at me, for my glory; I think I am still crying to get noticed in some ways. So, the battle rages on. I want so desperately to be used by God, and it encourages me when people can see that happening, but at the same time I cling to the successes as if they make me matter.

I know that this is brutally honest, but as I embark on a journey to end the war, I would appreciate your prayers. I thought that I had resolved the self-esteem issues some time ago, but obviously not. It's time to resolve this.

Goin' Down Memory Lane

2008-06-23T08:23:00.003-07:00

I'm going through my bookshelves and getting rid of a lot of books from my early ministry days and youth pastor days. It brought up a lot of memories, mostly good. I also ran across a three inch notebook filled with a project I did for ONE of my master's degree classes. Looking through it I couldn't believe how much work that was, and that it was only for one class. Looking through it I could easily see how much different we do church here at Palm Valley Church. I'm sure that there are still plenty of churches that function the way the church I analyzed eighteen years ago did, but PVC certainly isn't one of them, and our community is better for it.

I even found some magazines from my Kart racing days with pictures of me at Ontario Motor Speedway where we ran an exhibition for the California 500 Indy car race. Boy does that bring back a lot of memories! That was back in the late 70's - man, I am getting OLD! It was cool to see the picture of my niece Jennifer with her "Lewis Brothers Racing" t-shirt on (she was about 1 - totally cute!). Those were good times, except for the fact that neither God, nor Paige, were in my life at the time.

Ministry to New Believers - Correcting a Mistake

2008-06-10T09:01:00.003-07:00

I was wrong. I know that comes as a shock, but I made a mistake this past weekend that I have already taken steps to correct going forward.

This past weekend we had our Fresh Start Class. Usually we off the class on Saturday and on Sunday. In the past, once we added a Saturday night class, we offered the Saturday class every other month. This past fall, we added a second Saturday service. For Fresh Start, we began offering the class two times each month, and on Saturday once per month. This proved too often to have more than one or two in the class, so we went back to once per month with both Saturday and Sunday classes.

With the beginning of summer here, I thought I would pull back the Saturday class and in June and July, only offer the Sunday class. I got an email this last week from someone who attends Saturday night and works on Sundays. She wanted to attend the FS class. The Holy Spirit convicted me. Even though sometimes no one comes to the Saturday night class, we need to offer it every month, especially since we now have two services.

Yesterday I made sure that we added the Saturday classes to the calendar. One major reason we have Saturday services is because some people can't attend on Sunday. If they can't attend on Sunday, then they can't come to a class then either! This is a good lesson to learn. We can't offer things when we want, we need to offer things when they are needed.

From now on, we will offer both the Saturday and Sunday class each month. Lesson learned.

Sheep vs Dogs

2008-06-04T09:56:00.002-07:00

Have you ever wondered why God calls us sheep instead of dogs? Think about it. The Bible uses sheep to illustrate people constantly. Why doesn't he use dogs as the metaphor?

Because sheep are dumb! Sheep follow blindly, even though they can see. Hmmm, didn't Jesus talk about seeing, yet not seeing? Sheep need constant attention, are minimally trainable (if at all really), and they smell funny. People are the same. That's why you have to cast vision constantly, model consistently, and equip regularly.

Why not dogs? Dogs are trainable, see things and hear things most don't, and dogs follow wisely. You can equip dogs to do amazing things. Dogs can think and reason (to a point). Once a dog is trained, it remembers what it has been taught.

As much as we want to be like dogs, alas, we are like sheep. God knows this, yet loves us anyway. Praise God!

Summer Time!

2008-06-03T08:02:00.000-07:00

Summer is here! OK, not officially, but schools are either out or about to be out, and people are planning vacations to get out of the heat (It’s coming!). As a kid, I loved summer. I loved running through the sprinklers (pools were a rarity in my so-cal neighborhood), playing games with friends. The greatest thing about summer was hanging out with friends. I still love hanging out with friends. Darius mentioned this in his message this last weekend. We need to take the opportunity to focus on relationships this summer. I can’t think of anything better than to focus on my relationships with those I serve with.

On a similar note, who are you building relationships with this summer? Another of my hopes is to get to know more people with cultural and ethnic backgrounds different from my own. I grew up in a very white neighborhood. In fact, I didn’t even know anyone with another cultural or ethnic background until I was an adult. I also hope that we can add some cultural diversity to our team. We live in a diverse area, with people with heritage from all over the world. We need to embrace that, and reach out to those who look different than us. We also need to make sure that when people of various backgrounds come to the Fresh Start Table, they will see that we are diverse as well. That has huge welcoming impact! This isn’t a political thing; it’s a Biblical/cultural thing. Jesus told us to go to “all the world”. The phrase he used actually means to “all the ethnics”. In other words, it means to go to every people group and every culture. We have many cultures and ethnic groups represented here at Palm Valley Church. Let’s start here.

Working Out!

2008-06-02T11:57:00.003-07:00

Let me just say that I have never been much a workout fan. I would much rather get exercise having fun, and staring at the wall while walking or running on a treadmill isn't my definition of fun! I have to say though, that today was pretty cool. In physical therapy today, Pablo "pushed" me to do more than I thought I could, and I'm glad. I've committed to pushing through as much pain as I can stand to try to break through to better health. I wasn't sure about my ability to work out today at all because the myofacial pain in my ribs and sternum were up pretty high, but I was able to push through it. I have a couple of specific goals that I am working on, so I just focused on them, and charged ahead.

While working on my lower back and in traction, I was also working on building strength back up in my arms (kind of a funny thought since my arms have never really been very strong). It must have looked like I was on a medieval rack with my lower body strapped to weights on one end, and my arms hanging on to weights at the other, stretching me out (I joked after that I gained 5 inches).

After the traction and weights I thought I was done, but Pablo had other ideas! He put me on a treadmill for ten minutes (he first said 5, but I was surprisingly doing pretty well, so I went 5 more). I was worried about my knees, since they usually scream at me when I do things like that. It felt good to really work my whole body today, it's been a long time.

The big test will be whether or not I can move tomorrow. I hope so, so that I can keep progressing. I'm still unsure if all this is helping my back, but I'm sure trying.

Finally, Good News from a Doctor!

2008-05-29T11:20:00.003-07:00

I had a conduction test done last week. If you don't know what that is, it's like volunteering for the electric chair. Josh even told me to make sure they used a wet sponge (See the movie the Green Mile if you don't know what this means). Basically, they connect electrodes to one end of a nerve and give it an electrical charge to determine possible nerve damage. Since I have been having some leg problems that seemed nerve related, this test was needed.

Before getting to the results, here's the latest on the rest of the health front. Surgery on my arm went well, though I was frustrated that I wasn't back to normal after three days (Paige nailed me on that!). The MRI on my lower back showed that it is getting worse. Last time I had a torn disk. Now that disk is beginning to bulge and two more are torn. Blood tests showed suddenly high cholesterol and sugar levels, so I'm on a pill for that and a huge diet change (That I'm hating!). We have three months to get it in line or more drastic measures will be taken. I'm not diabetic, but close. The sudden number jump scared the Dr. enough that he was surprised that I wasn't having chest pains and ordered an immediate EKG. Everything is fine there.

The results are in. While there is some nerve damage, most of the damage that is symptomatic is reversible. Finally, some good news! I began therapy to strengthen my back and now I am doing traction (which feels good during, but not later when the back realizes what's been done to it!). The obvious hope is to avoid surgery, so I am working hard!

As for church, I have had to stop doing set-up and tear-down which is nice, but it's hard dealing with the feeling that I'm not pulling my weight while the rest of our staff is working so hard. My goal is to be able to help out again beginning in August, which is when it really gets hot. Not excited about the heat, but want to be helpful if I can.

My focus this year is to get fixed the things that can be fixed, so my arm may not be my last surgery. My body is falling apart faster as I grow older and I have to shake the idea that I just have to accept it. Some things can't change unless God intervenes (which I would gladly welcome!), but those things that now with better technology and processes possibly can, I want to try and change.

I appreciate all the prayers and encouragement I have gotten to this point. Please keep it up!

One Prayer

2008-05-21T14:08:00.002-07:00

One prayer. It sounds so simple. What is your one prayer for the church throughout the world? During the month of June we will be joining 800+ other churches for a four week series called One Prayer. You can learn more about it here http://www.oneprayer.com/.

It's hard to narrow it down to just one. In Jesus' prayer in John 17 he prayed that we would be one, united in our love for God and for one another. It doesn't get any simpler yet so difficult as that. It doesn't get any more important than that either. If the church isn't united in its love for God and its love for each other, how will the world come to know Him? Every prayer then, is a subset of Jesus' prayer for without unity we have nothing.

It's going to be amazing to know that churches all over the world will be joining in this series. It's going to be interesting to see what aspect of this prayer other churches focus on. I can't wait!

Rick Warren

2008-05-21T08:25:00.002-07:00

I remember the first time I visited Saddleback church and heard Rick Warren speak. The church was still meeting at a high school. Since that time, I have visited the church a number of times. I used to live about 20-30 minutes from the church. I have seen the church grow in numbers and influence.

Yesterday, I got the chance to hear some new stuff from Rick along with most of our staff. As is often the case, I was really challenged. He was speaking from 2 Corinthians chapter 4. Here are some things that really hit me:

1 - This was actually a quote by Jerry Falwell. Regardless of what you think of Falwell, this rocked me. Paraphrasing, he said that greatness is determined by what it takes to discourage you. I really need to work on this in my life. I get so discouraged over several things, mostly beyond my control. I need to do a better job in this area.
2 - You lose perspective when your're tired. This really applies right now. I haven't slept much since surgery last week and it's really affecting my ability to stay focused and think clearly.
3 - God's pupose is greater than your problems. This is a great reminder! I do the best I can in this area, often pushing myself a little too hard and then paying the price. I mostly think of physical problems here, but life struggles apply greatly. I do better focusing on his purpose over my life problems than I do with my physical problems.
4 - Make time for daily renewal. Divert daily, withdraw weekly, and take time for yearly abandonment. I need to start getting together with some other pastors in my area to encourage and pray for them, and allow them to do the same for me.

Rick always makes you think. There are several other points that I need to reflect on, but these I need to work on.

Theology - Big Words!

2008-05-20T08:03:00.005-07:00

I don't often get into heavy theological studies, but I have been drawn to take another look at what I believe about some things. I think we all need to challenge ourselves in this area from time to time. The deep study is good, especially when I often don't go deep in my daily devotions.

So, I've been looking at big words like sacerdotalism, christology, soteriology, and other concepts that often divide churches. I've been spending some time looking at Calvinism and Armenianism especially. I don't fit neatly into either tradition, but always seek to understand the views of both more fully.

The problem comes when we go beyond what is clear to what is not and become dogmatic about what is not. Great theologians have debated some key issues for centuries without clear resolution or agreement. Many would rather fight than to admit that they may not have answers to everything. There are viewpoints that I hold, that I can defend, but I also admit that there are a few passages that I don't have all of the answers to.

It is important to me that we be unified where we can be, and give grace where we can't. This doesn't mean that I don't have conviction about by beliefs, but it does mean that I am not willing to split the church over most of them. The bottom line is, are we doing what Jesus sent us to do? Are we fulfilling the great commission with the great commandment? How we do it doesn't matter nearly as much as whether or not we are doing it!

We don't have to prove each other wrong, but we should challenge each other to continue to grow in their faith, knowledge, and obedience to our Lord Jesus Christ.

Update

2008-05-20T07:53:00.003-07:00

OK, it's been too long since I have posted, but not as long as some of my friends and fellow staff members!

Since my last post I had surgery on my arm (doing OK), and we had nearly 2800 people on the weekend at PVC! No the two aren't related other than seeing God work in both situations.

We're nearly finished with the two NBGG groups that Mark and Debbie are leading. Dennis and I had the opportunity to visit last week and the growth is very cool to see! It was great for another staff member to see what's happening with our new believers, they don't always get to see the results like my team does.

We're heading into summer and instead of slowing down, we're cranking it up. June will be interesting with the "One Prayer" series. It will be cool to experience the teaching of some outside of PVC's gifted speakers. It will also be good for Greg to have a long break!

We have some tweaks coming in our New Believer ministry and some expansion plans too. This past weekend we had three potential coaches observing to see if this is where God wants them serving. It's great to see people coming to the table and asking what it takes to serve in this area.

Today I am having a conduction test done to evaluate nerve damage in my lover back and legs. Think of it as volunteering for the electric chair! OK, it's not that bad, but the test hurts, and yes they are electrocuting you in the process. This better help them solve some problems I am having!

Covenant Marriage

2008-05-02T08:07:00.002-07:00

For me, I thought all marriages were covenant marriages. According to the state of Arizona, there is a difference, and I am glad. With the high rate of divorce in this country, I am glad that there is at least an attempt by this state to reduce that number.

A covenant marriage is a step beyond a normal wedding. To receive a covenant marriage license, the couple must complete pre-marital counseling (supported by a notarized certification by the clergy or other person doing the counseling). After the marriage, before a couple can divorce, they must go through counseling.

It doesn't prevent divorce, but it will hopefully reduce it. The one thing that I wish they would change, is that right now, anyone can officiate a wedding in AZ. I wish that they would limit that to licensed clergy and officials of the court. I think that would help reduce the divorce rate as well.

Saturday night I will officiate my first covenant marriage. I personally know the couple and am excited for them. I am also proud that they are taking this extra step and giving their marriage a good foundation for success.

Another way to reduce divorce is to eliminate the term from your vocabulary. If you don't view it as an out, then when troubles come, you have no choice but to work things out. That's not easy or popular, if we made divorce more difficult, less couples would take marriage so lightly.

Next!

2008-04-29T07:50:00.002-07:00

After God showed up so hugely this weekend, it would be natural to take a break. It would be easy to sit back and reflect on the joy of this past weekend when 136 people went public with their faith by being baptized. But we can't!

Last weekend was one victory in a great war. It was one battle in the epic battle of Christ vs Satan. We got the privilege of witnessing God's power at work, and the evil one was powerless to stop it!

The war rages on. We don't have time to reflect on the battle won, we must prepare for the next one. We must equip as many as we can to stand up to the enemy and be victorious in their everyday lives.

So, what's next? This weekend is the Fresh Start Class. It will be Saturday at 5pm and Sunday at 10am. And so it continues. The preparation for the next battle. Reflection is necessary, and we will spend some time doing that today, but then we must move on. We must prepare for the next one.

As much as we rejoice in 136 baptized this weekend, we need to notice the thousands who are still without a relationship with Jesus Christ. So, we press on. We prepare others for battle. One thing you will notice though, is a bit quicker step, a broader smile on our faces, and a renewed vigor to accomplish the task before us.

Next!

Satan Fails Again

2008-04-28T07:09:00.003-07:00

It was last Friday, on my day off, as I was working on some things for the weekend (yeah, sometimes a day off isn't, but when it isn't, it is almost always very worth it!). That's when it started. These thoughts started coming into my head.

First, let me say that I am reading the book Wild at Heart. It's taking me some time to get through because there are several issues that it has raised for me that I thought I had dealt with, but realize that I haven't fully. I know that Caleb loves this book, and now I know why. it's a must read for every man, and young man. Thoughts on the book are for a different post, but if you've read the book you'll understand this post that much more.

The thoughts were powerful. The first one, "what are you good for?" is one that I have had numerous times in my life. It's my Achilles heal and Satan knows it. With many things from my past, and the physical challenges I face, this is a constant challenge. I have battled back by calling it a checkpoint. When it comes, I can re-evaluate what God has done and is doing in my life.

The second thought was, "You don't preach anymore, and you don't sing anymore either. You don't..." It's a battle of pride and I know it. I miss preaching, but I know that there is no way that I could physically preach more than one or two services. My voice is gone, and while there are moments when I can still sing beautifully, I am very inconsistent, and there are ranges that I can no longer hit. That's reality!

The thoughts keep coming. My memory doesn't work the same since my stroke, so how could I help other churches.

I know where these thoughts were coming from, and why. This weekend was baptism, and God was getting ready to do something huge (and he did!). I have heard these thoughts enough that I had a response.

Philippians 1:6 says that God is continuing to shape me into what he wants me to be, and he won't stop until he is finished. That's a promise that I cling to every moment of every day. The other thoughts? Those aren't my role now. God used me to do those things in the past, and I don't know if he'll use them in me again, but what he has me doing now is important because it is what he has called me to for this season in my life. Sure, I hope that I get the opportunity to share what I have learned, and am learning, about working with new and returning believers with other churches, but mostly, I just want to do what I am doing better and better.

The other stuff just doesn't matter any more! As long as I can get out of bed, I will serve him, and if or when I can't, I will still praise his name. He certainly has done a great work in me, and I thank him for not being finished. I don't know what he has planned for me in five or ten years, but for now, I am thrilled to get to do what I am doing.

Satan tried to discourage me. He tried to get me focusing on my past rather than on the present. he tried to get me focused on me, not on Him. It didn't work, the weekend was awesome, and Satan failed...again!

Satan is a Nerd!

2008-04-27T20:19:00.003-07:00

I loved the T-shirt a young man was wearing as he got baptized. He was truly standing up for his faith. Satan wasn't happy about what God was doing at Palm Valley Church this weekend. He couldn't be! We are all celebrating what we saw God do this weekend.

So, what did God do? Three weeks ago we had 45 signed up for baptism this weekend. By Friday we had 86. More registered over the weekend so the number grew to 93. That's pretty amazing in itself, but sometimes people don't show up. This weekend God showed up big, and so did the people. In our five services, we baptized 136 people! I was praying for 100 (Oh ye of little faith!).

The stories represented would take months to tell. It was great to see so many that our New Believer Ministry has worked with.

Personally, I am exhausted, and every inch of my body is in pain. I can hardly walk right now, but I would do it again tomorrow if given the opportunity! God gave me the strength to get through the weekend, and I am sure He would get me through another day as well.

It was awesome to get to serve all weekend with Paige! She was terrific (as always). She ran the check-in table and it went so well.

So may of our staff stepped up and went the extra mile this weekend. That's no surprise because that's normal for our staff. A special thanks though to Art (a huge amount of help!), Dennis, Christina, Jillayne, Ryan, Daniel, Brent, and Greg (who preached and baptized even though he wasn't well!).

Along with staff, there were several volunteers who really shined this weekend. Mark, Debbie, Kathy, Eloy, & Don especially.

Many other staff and volunteers helped make this such a special experience. To all, a big Thank you!

God is so good!

Falling Away

2008-04-24T13:07:00.003-07:00

Why do people fall away from Christ? And just as important, what draws them back? Lastly, how to we shore them up to prevent them from falling away again.

Some may argue that those who re-commit to Christ, probably weren't Christians to begin with. Their first decision probably wasn't sincere. That's not a call I can make. That's a matter for God to determine their heart. What I do know, is that people with genuine relationships with Christ, sometimes go through tough times and need a Fresh Start with God!

So how do we help them? Do we act as though they never had a relationship with Christ and have them use the same materials and go to the same classes as those accepting Christ for the first time? The more and more that I encounter people truly wanting to re-connect with Christ, I am convinced that they need something different. Something in between the new believer process and plugging them into regular home teams.

What that looks like, I don't know, but God has been impressing upon my heart that there needs to be resources geared to them. So, I am beginning work on that. Next week I will be taking some time for focused prayer and study in this area. Then, I will be meeting with other pastors to brainstorm in this area. I hope that by fall we will have a resource that will bring hope and connection to those re-connecting with God.

85 and Counting!

2008-04-23T07:52:00.002-07:00

I can't wait! So far, we have 85 people signed up to get baptized this weekend, and I am sure that number will go higher. We have eight people from one family getting baptized! God is so good. I am so excited that I get to be there to witness this.

Baptizing is one of the greatest blessings a pastor can have. This time, however, I will mostly be on the sidelines. I am sad and excited about that at the same time. It may sound odd, but I have chosen not to be in the water baptizing because of my health. For that I am sad. But I am excited that our newest Pastor Dennis will take my place and be in the water with Pastor Greg baptizing people. I am excited that Dennis will get to enjoy this blessing. He has a great heart and loves people. This will be a special time for him I am sure, and I will enjoy watching that.

As for me, I'll have plenty to do with odds and ends and supporting the Fresh Start table. This is a team effort and it is a huge step in the faith journey of those getting baptized. I hope and pray that our entire church is blessed by this weekend. Everyone has contributed to the growth of these people.

Think about it. Someone invited them. They came and were welcomed. They had a great worship experience and heard the Word of God. They accepted Christ. Our New Believer ministry helped them grow. Our Home Teams help them continue their journey. All the while, their children and youth were being cared for and were learning to love God for themselves. Our office, communications, and tech teams have made resources available to them. Our set-up and tear-down teams created an environment where they could hear the voice of God. Our care teams and other volunteers met their needs and cared for them, as well as equipped them for service. All in all, we all loved them, regardless of their past, their struggles, their appearance, or their means, we all loved them with the love of the Lord. Now they are seeing the fruits of their labors, over 85 getting baptized!

Praise be to the one true, gracious, holy, and loving God!!!

Good, Bad, & Ugly!

2008-04-16T08:11:00.002-07:00

The Good:
My niece Christy is getting married this weekend in Texas! Wish I could be there, but I am excited for her.

The Bad:
One of my sisters had some tests yesterday, I hope and pray that they come back negative!

I've had, and continue to have, several Dr. visits right now. The results are that my cholesterol and blood sugar have shot up, so I am on yet another medication, and making some changes in what I eat to get those numbers back line.

Apparently the disc at L5 in my lower back has gotten much worse and is pinching nerves. The pain levels in my back and legs have increased dramatically. The epidurals didn't last long! I am beginning some tests (another MRI among other things - I hate being in that little tube, and I don't care for the open ones much either) and first steps of treatment (fortunately there are a couple things to try before surgery). I was glad to hear that many things are connected, so if we get that fixed, several problems will go away.

The tremors in my hands are worse. So much so that I can barely write (thank God for computers). Hopefully a medicine change will get that back under control.

The Ugly:
I don't look good in shorts right now (like I ever did) because of the nerve damage in my legs. It has cause the hair to fall out, but only in specific areas related to the nerves that are pinched. It is really weird! I am also seeing the Dermatologist today to take care of what she called, "the barnacles of life". So I'll have some healing to do from that.

Saving the Best for Last:
God is so good! I praise him every day and am thankful that I am able to get out of bed. He must still have things for me to do.

It's Raining New Believers!

2008-04-10T07:40:00.002-07:00

I got curious. Since Easter, the decisions to accept Christ, re-dedicate lives, and people coming to the Fresh Start table has been off the hook! I ran a report this morning because I was curious to see how many people have made some sort of decision for Christ since Easter (total of 3 weeks). I took out duplicates and those who were just letting us know that they were believers (You'd be surprised at how many I get of those and from those who were just confused when they filled out their card).

The total?

In three weeks we have had 163 decisions! Take a moment to let that sink in.

I have cauliflower ear from talking on the phone so much!

Of those, 68 came to the Fresh Start table. That's an average of 23 people at the Fresh Start table on a weekend! That's people who aren't just saying that they made a decision. These are people saying that they made a decision and that they want to take the next step in their journey!
It wasn't long ago that our average was 4 and I was so excited to see that it had grown to 7!

We had 22 in the Fresh Start Class last weekend, the most ever!

There are 21 people signed up for the New Believer Growth Group! We had to multiply the group, and we are having two groups meeting on two nights of the week. The hosts, Mark and Debbie are going to lead both groups (I don't know who is more excited, me or them!)!

We have 46 people signed up to be baptized, but we just started announcing the date, and I just sent out about 200 letters inviting people to sign up for it.

I know it's a goofy term, but I really am giddy with excitement about all that God is doing here at Palm Valley Church! The fact that I get to be involved in this process is so humbling. The responsibility is as great as the opportunity to touch lives for the kingdom.

Perhaps even better, everyone who attended the last New Believer Growth Group is connected and serving! That means that the process is working. We are able to move people from decision to disciple and have a true impact in their lives. They aren't just going to classes, or joining groups, they are connecting with Christ and others. They are learning to feed themselves and others spiritually.

I am in awe at what the Lord is doing in our midst! I pray that it continues. I pray that we do it better so that we connect more people. I pray that God would send more people to participate in the process and help these people connect. I pray for strength and endurance, and I pray that the Lord will keep the evil one away so that these children of God can grow to maturity.

Praise God!

Treasured or Remembered Thoughts?

2008-04-10T07:12:00.002-07:00

I was thinking this morning (always a dangerous moment) about memories. I have always thought the entry in the Bible where it says that, "Mary treasured all these things in her heart."

I was thinking that for us to remember positive events in our lives, we need to "treasure" them in order to embed them into our memory, yet when bad things happen, they go immediately into the recesses of our memory as permanent fixtures.

How many of the hurts in your life do you remember, versus the blessings? How vivid are the details of those events? How many negative versus positive memories do you have?

I hope that you have had more opportunity to treasure memories rather than remember the hurts in your life. It makes me think that I need to be sure to capture each positive moment so that those memories will crowd out the painful ones.

One memory I have treasured in my heart this week was Caleb's 20th birthday. It's hard to believe that we don't have any teenagers in the house, and that our "baby" is now 20! Tuesday, Paige and I drove over to the school (there is no up or down here because we live in a flat valley!) and took him to dinner. Paige even baked him a cake and we ate it at a picnic table at the school without plates or utensils (man style!). It was pretty simple, but it was meaningful time, especially for me.

Because of a TIA (small stroke) that I had several years ago, I have some memory disconnects, so every treasured moment is important to me. I am thankful that Paige is able to remind me of things past.

Anyway, just some thoughts about how we remember or treasure things in our lives. I am thankful that I remember a key time in my life when Jesus finally became someone that I could talk to. I will treasure that day always!

Happy Easter!

2008-04-02T14:31:00.002-07:00

No, I'm not confused. I know that we celebrated Easter two weekends ago. But then again, what is Easter? Isn't Easter the day we remember what Jesus did on the cross for us? Don't we celebrate his resurrection?

Shouldn't we be doing that every weekend (every day actually)? Shouldn't our focus be the same? I think that the only real difference between a "normal" weekend and Easter weekend is that so many people come to do their "duty" in coming to church.

The thing is, every weekend there are people who don't normally attend church who come to PVC. We have the same opportunity to show them that Christ loves them and that he is risen. We have that opportunity 52 weekends each year!

We just need a reminder now and then what the weekend is all about. I can't wait for this weekend. Happy Easter!

Job

2008-04-01T07:29:00.003-07:00

Have you ever felt like Job? What about Peter?

In Job's case, Satan was convinced that the only reason he worshipped God was because God was blessing Him, so God let Satan test his theory. Job went through all kinds of stuff. I love it when his "friend" comes and says, "curse God and die!"

Jesus told Peter that Satan would, "sift you like wheat" to prove that his faith wasn't genuine.

I have to admit that sometimes I feel like these guys. In the past few weeks I have been waiting for one of my friends to tell me to curse God and die. Since that hasn't happened, I'm thinking that things aren't as bad as I think they are, and that I'm not under attack to that extreme.

Things certainly haven't been easy, but I know whom I have believed in, and know that he is able, and proves faithful, and powerful enough to accomplish his purposes.

When I really compare what Job and Peter went through, I know that I haven't faced anything that compares (praise God for that!). But still, in my world, sometimes the challenges seem overwhelming. The best thing about it is that I know that God loves me, and cares for me, and won't let anything happen to me that doesn't fit into his plan.

One thing that God has been impressing upon me lately is that I need to more fully trust him, and rely on his power. I need to give him complete control and live in expectation of what he has yet to accomplish in my life. God is great, and Philippians 1:6 reminds me that he is still at work in my life.

So, when I start to feel like Job, or like Peter, he reminds me that my life is nothing like theirs, and I praise him for that!

Just some random thoughts today!

Really Tough Week!

2008-03-29T20:18:00.003-07:00

For a week that was supposed to let me focus on getting some good rest, it was one of the most stressful weeks in a long time!

It's no real story that with all of my medical issues, I am having some nerve problems in my legs which is making the hair fall out (great for girls, but lousy for a hairy guy!), and I have a lump in my arm that needs to be removed (no worries).

The big surprise was that the big medical stress this week was for Paige. Here's the story. Last fall and winter, she had a few episodes of numbness in her face and arms. We went to the Dr. and he had her get an MRI. They found a pineal cyst and sent her to a neurologist. After a second MRI two months later for comparison, and an EEG, we got the news that the cyst is a little over an inch long, and the neurologist didn't like what he saw (Thursday), so he sent her for a second opinion with a neurosurgeon (Friday). The fact that they got her in so quickly added to the concern.

We had many people all over the country praying, which we really appreciated!

The appointment could only have been better of the cyst had vanished! Unfortunately, it is still there and she will have to get regular MRI's and watch for symptoms to make sure that she doesn't have future problems with the cyst. The good news is that the problems she was having are most likely a variation on her migraines that she regularly gets (in this case that's very good news!).

We never doubted that God was in control and that he would give us the strength to face whatever the outcome, but our humanness was filled with worry of the unknown.

It was a huge scare for us, and she will have to live with this cyst, but prayerfully it will never be an issue. Thanks for the prayers!

Long Time No Post!

2008-03-29T19:51:00.002-07:00

OK, I just realized how long it has been since my last post. I would attribute that to three reasons:

1. I have been crazy busy. Between the carnival, Easter, video shoots, New Believer Growth Group, curriculum... I just haven't had time.

2. I have been burnt out! With the focus on curriculum and video shoots the past few weeks, along with everything else. I just am out of energy. I took Wednesday through Saturday this week (it was nice to not be there tonight, but I missed it) to rest and recharge. It hasn't been all that restful, which I'll do a separate post on, but today was nice!

3. With everything else and some medical stuff added on, blogging just hasn't made it very high on the priority list.

That said:

1. For pics of the carnival you can go to Greg's blog or to You-Tube and search for palmvalleychurch and watch the carnival video that Mike did.

2. Easter was awesome! God was very present. 38 people indicated that they had accepted Christ or were re-dedicating their lives to Him. There were 17 first time decisions! The Kid Zone "Zooplosion" set-up is very cool! We had something like 75+ families visit for the first time. Many came because they were invited by friends, or because of the mailer (way to go Julie!).

3. I just finished the first New Believer Growth Group using the new Connecting Point video based curriculum. It was cool, and it's going to be really good, but it was weird watching myself on video and then leading the discussion. The next session will be led by one of our Fresh Start coaches (Mark) and I am anxious to get feedback from him, then we'll make changes and to the final material.

That's enough for now.

Holy Moment

2008-03-15T20:45:00.003-07:00

There are moments in life when God shows you what He's been up to. He shows you that is has been working through you and others around you. Today I got to see how He has been working through the people at Palm Valley Church. Today we had a pre-Easter carnival which included rides, free food, bounce houses, and 30,000 Easter eggs with several thousand being dropped from a helicopter (I'll post pics as soon as I get them). It was very cool that I got to be in the helicopter dropping the eggs!

It was really fun riding in the helicopter, but that wasn't the holy moment. It was a beautiful day, and the view was spectacular, but that wasn't it either. We were able to fly over the church property and that was really cool, but that wasn't it either.

We were dropping the eggs on the football field at the high school where we meet. Our plan was to have all of the people in the bleachers during the drop, then come onto the field to collect eggs. As we approached the field in the helicopter I could see people in the stands on the other side of the field. I figured that it was probably too hard to get the people to go to the one side, so they decided to let them sit on either side.

When we swung around and started across the field I could see why there were people on the other side. The stands were nearly full on both sides, and people were standing along the fence. WOW! Such a holy moment to realize that God had brought all of those people, more than I had imagined would be there. It was such a special moment to see the hand of God in action.

I found out later that over 260 families who came didn't attend PVC! What a God thing! That was our purpose for the event. We wanted to introduce people to PVC, invite them to Easter services, and show them that church could be fun. We also wanted to show them that PVC really did care about them and their children.

The people came because people from Palm Valley invited them! In just the little that I was there, I met several people who were with the PVC'ers who brought them. That was really cool!

By the way, Adrienne rocks! I don't know many people who work as hard as she does! In addition to all of the other ministry she does, she led this event. It was outstanding! Once I was on the ground and back to the campus, I heard so many people commenting about how great it was and how much fun they were having. Thanks Adrienne!

Anyway, praise God! I can't wait to see what He does on Easter (as if He hasn't done enough already!)!

Route 66 - Biblical Culture

2008-03-06T07:56:00.002-07:00

In today's reading there were several things that stood out, but one passage struck me as odd.

In Numbers 6:9-12 it is talking about the Nazirite vow. It is a serious commitment to the Lord. This passage begins bu saying, "If someone falls dead beside them..." How weird is that! What kind of place do you have to be living in where people just fall dead beside you? Talk about culture shock! I can't even imagine what that is like. I am sure that there are places, even in our world today, where this happens, and the people don't think that much about it, but it has never happened anyplace I have been. That would totally freak me out!

Further in the passage it says that if this happens, the days of their vow before this event don't count, and they have to start all over again. Imagine if this is the last day of your vow! Some vows were as short as 30 days, and they are to the Lord, but a long vow what ever commitment was made, that could be really tough! Imagine Lent (if you follow that) for an extended period of time.

A weird as this is, we take to take from it how serious it is to make a vow to God. We need to fulfill it at any cost, no matter how long it takes. If we commit to doing something for a number of consecutive days, and something interrupts those days (no matter what it is, even someones death), then you need to start over. Always fulfill your vows to God!

Two Minute Tuesday

2008-03-04T08:11:00.002-07:00

How are you doing on your Route 66 daily reading? If you are behind, either make it a priority and catch up, or skip to today's reading and get going! It is so important to be in God's Word every day. How can you lead others toward Christ if you aren't drawing closer to Him yourself?

If we are going to "Lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ", don't we need to be fully devoted to Him ourselves? Doesn't being fully devoted to Him include spending time with Him, learning more about Him, and becoming more like Him?

I encourage you to spend time every day with God through His Word. I also want to encourage you to start journaling. We are using the SOAP method and it makes journaling so easy!

I made a commitment to start journaling at the beginning of the year when we started the Route 66 focus. I have never been one to journal, but I have come to love it. I love writing down what God is speaking to me through His Word and the Holy Spirit. I will be honest and say that I have missed a day or two hear and there, weekends are tough for me! But, I pick it right back up and don't let myself feel guilty for what I have missed, I just press on to become more consistent.

I challeng you to get into God's Word, expect to hear from Him every day, and journal what He is teaching you so that you can look back and reflect on it and celebrate!

God's Family in Action - A True Story of Love

2008-02-26T14:03:00.003-07:00

I want to share a story with you about something that happened in God's family in the past couple of weeks.

I got a frantic email from a friend in the church who does foster care. He had just gotten a call that a young girl and boy were on their way to his home. No advanced warning, just that they were on the way. They were coming with nothing. He was worried about having clothes for them and wanted to know if I knew someone who could help.

I made two phone calls and wow, what an amazing response! Word spread quickly and people were firing detail questions back that I had no idea needed to be answered (that's a man for you!). They wanted to know sizes and if they needed shoes, etc. Within an hour I had clothes with more on the way. Others were waiting on standby with more clothes because we weren't sure how long the kids would be staying and how much would be needed.

I am happy to say that the kids have gone to be with others, and the needs were more than met! One child was so excited and surprised when told that he could keep the clothes.

The family who cared for these kids is new to Palm Valley Church and are so grateful for how the church responded. I assured them that this is how God's family functions. We care for one another and meet needs as they arise and as God provides.

I get teary just thinking about it. I am so proud to be a part of this family. Watching it care for others is such a testimony to the world around us. Palm Valley Church, a big thank you from the family you helped, and from me as one of your pastors. Thank you for being the hands and feet of Jesus! These kids, going through crisis, got to experience the love of Jesus first hand!

Turning the Corner

2008-02-26T13:59:00.002-07:00

I didn't want to get my hopes up and speak to soon, but my headaches and other symptoms are nearly gone!!! Praise God! I still have an occasional twinge or brief headache, but it goes away. I am so glad that I'm nearly done with this. I've been doing well since Sunday. I know that's only 2 1/2 days, but that's huge compared to how the past few weeks have been.

Thank you to all who have been praying for me. I am so thankful for the many who have prayed and continued to ask how I am doing. God is certainly being gracious to me.

17 Hour Day - Priceless!

2008-02-25T10:13:00.003-07:00

Yesterday was a really long day! 17 hours! Now that's a long Sunday! My body hurt so bad at one point I used some ice from an ice chest and went and hid for a few minutes to ice down my back. There was virtually no down time. I didn't get my afternoon nap (oh, so important). Paige brought my pain meds in the nick of time. Today it took me an hour and a half to deal with the pain enough to get out of bed so that I could take some meds. I still can hardly move. You know what? I would do it again in a heart beat!!! Here's why:

- 15 people made commitments or re-commitments for Christ this weekend
- At least 3 1st time decisions for Christ
- 450 volunteers at our Volunteer Appreciation Event (I wish they were all there!)
- Volunteers who served at the volunteer appreciation event (especially Gary and Val!)
- A staff who have the heart of service

I could go on and on, but the point is, there are a lot of amazing people at Palm Valley Church who love God and serve Him gladly! I am so privileged to get to serve along side them. That's why I would gladly do another 17 hour day, and face up to my physical struggles just to tell them thank you, because they so deserve it! I was glad to see nearly everyone whom I directly serve with at the event. I am so appreciative of the time they give back to God. Some of our volunteers serve with much more pain and more hardship than I can imagine. That is such an encouragement and challenge to me!

Together, we are leading people to become fully devoted followers of Christ. I will serve long days and endure any amount of pain to serve with these people to accomplish this purpose!

Thank You!

Turning Churches - Changing Direction

2008-02-21T10:41:00.003-07:00

I was finishing reading Doing Church as a Team by Wayne Cordeiro this morning and one point he made got me thinking. Was was talking about turning churches, or changing direction.

I was thinking that we need to remember that when a church is new, and small, it is easier to turn quickly. Like a speed boat, there isn't much in the water, so it can turn in a short radius. It's also like a recently planted plant. It can be transplanted without too much effort because the roots haven't grown deep or spread to far.

An older church, or larger church, takes more time and effort to turn. Like a large ship may take miles to turn around, or a plant that has had time to develop deep roots, or has spread them wide. More care needs to be taken in making this turn. I'm certainly not saying the turn shouldn't be made! If a turn or change in direction is what's best for the church in better enabling it to accomplish it's vision and purpose, then whatever the cost, it needs to be turned! I'm just saying that you need to remember that it isn't a speedboat any more, and it will take more time and effort to make the change.

Just some thoughts.

Ordination

2008-02-19T07:54:00.003-07:00

In today's reading, we read about the ordination of Aaron and his sons (See Leviticus 8:1-36). Ordination is setting someone apart for serving the Lord. This passage shows the significance of their ordination as the representatives of Israel before God. It was a reminder of my own ordination in May of 1986 (Though thankfully, I didn't have to go through the process Aaron and his sons did).

Before I get into my ordination, let me make a side note that I do not believe someone needs to be ordained in order to serve God!

Ordination was important to me because for me it signified the completion of a transformation God was doing in my life. He is still transforming me into His likeness, but this was different.

I had been focused on what I wanted in life and was believing that it was what God wanted too because He was blessing what I was doing. I came to a point though, that I realized that I needed to be doing what God wanted me to do. I needed to fulfill His purposes in my life.

The transformation began when I got on my knees and asked God what He wanted and told Him that I was willing to do whatever He asked of me. Be careful when you make that kind of commitment to the Lord! The answer to that prayer is what led me into ministry. I know that He has called me to serve Him with my whole life. That doesn't necessarily mean that I must always be a full time pastor, in fact, many of my years in ministry I have been unpaid by the churches I have served. What it means is that I listen to God's voice and serve Him as He directs. Sometimes, that is an area where I wouldn't choose on my own, but He always blesses my obedience.

While ordination isn't necessary for many, it was necessary for me, not organizationally, but personally. As I mentioned, my ordination simbolized the completion of a huge transition in my life. The people at my ordination were mentors, family, and friends, and most importantly, my wife Paige. One of the pastors at my ordination was my father-in-law and I will treasure that always. He has been a mentor to me in many ways and I will always be grateful for the late night discussion of issues and Scripture that I was struggling with (even before Paige and I started dating!).

So for me, my ordination is a source of pride. Not to set me apart from those not ordained, but as a testimony and reminder to myself that I chose to obey God in a significant way in my life. I made a commitment to the Lord and I followed through on it, and so did He was He molded and shaped me during that time.

As far as ministry goes, there are many pastors who are not ordained (even on our staff) who I admire and respect, and aspire to attain some of their character traits. We are all being obedient to Christ as He has called us, and that's what matters! We are daily being transformed into the image of Christ. Again, for many, ordination is not important, but for me it was, and today's passage was a reminder to me of the great work God has done in my life.

Hawaii Pictures

2008-02-14T22:12:00.004-07:00

Here are a few of the cool things we saw in Hawaii:

Here is my bride Paige on the whale watching cruise.

Way too many whales to count! Harder than I thought to photograph. It seems they won't hold still for anyone!

I've always wanted to see the Arizona memorial. As a history buff and an AZ native, I was really looking forward to this experience, and I was not disappointed!
The Missouri was very cool! To see where the treaty was signed to end the war was amazing. It was kind of weird to see the big guns and cruise missiles on the same ship.
This wasn't the biggest wave we saw, but this guy was shooting the curl the whole time we were there (more than one wave of course!).

Connecting Point - 2

2008-02-14T02:33:00.002-07:00

After leading the New Believer Growth Group using the new Connecting Point material, here are some observations:

- Overall the group is going great. The discussion and involvment is terrific!
- On future videos I need to slow down! I can tell that I have been a little worried about video length and timing. Also, this is the first video teaching series I have done on this level, so I was a little nervous in the first videos.
- More fill-in's during the video to stay on track and stay focused.
- It will be better when it isn't just me doing the teaching.
- It's really weird watching yourself teach on video and then discussing it.
- So far, the timing has been great. The video length has been right at 20 minutes, which is at the long end of the 15-20 minute window we wanted, but the material for the first couple of weeks warrents it (The Bible and the Gospel).
- I can't wait for the next sessions.
- It's really going to be great when this is finalized and more people can lead it.
- I think that I'll have a better picture once someone else teaches the material.

Stay tuned!

Not Enough Time!

2008-02-07T08:02:00.000-07:00

I hear it all the time. I'm occasionally guilty of it myself, but quite honestly, the phrase, "I don't have enough time" is pretty lame! We all have the same amount of time. We all have 168 hours per week (OK, Pastor Ryan can probably say that it's actually something like 168 1/4 hours and 38 seconds or something like that, but for the rest of us it's 168!). I here, "I don't have time to commit to that" or "We're just too busy to join a home team" or I don't have time to study the Bible every day."

The bottom line, is that we have all the time we need to accomplish what God wants us to accomplish in our lives. We have enough time to fulfill His purposes in our lives. There are so many things in this world that eat time. Kids, school, sports, hobbies, shopping, work, volunteering, sleep, eating, are all time killers. They are not bad in and of themselves, and some are necessary.

The real question is the issue of "First Fruits." God has been teaching me a lot about this concept lately. The first and best of everything we have or do belongs to God. This includes our time! I firmly believe what I have heard many times, that we have enough time for what is important to us. I have found over the years that this is so true! It means that sometimes we have to say no to things that seem important for things that truly are!

One example in our lives as parents with two athletic boys, was limiting their sports activities. This was often hard. The parent pride factor would often rear it's ugly head. We wanted our kids to excel and to be "multi-sport talents." The thing is, games and practices eat time. They begin to interfere with our ability to be involved with home teams (our own educational goals and desires can have the same impact). We decided when the boys were young that they could only play one sport at a time. There were some occasions when sports would overlap by a couple of weeks, but in general, they weren't playing two sports at a time. This prevented us from running around like chickens... (at least to much). It also helped us maintain control of our weekly schedule.

So what's really important? What needs to be a priority above all else? I can't determine that for you, sorry! For us, God comes first! That's easy to say, I know, and applying it is sometimes difficult, and we constantly have to work at it (sometimes we still don't get it right!). Here's some of our priorities that come before anything else:

Daily devotions - Paige and I read the Bible together at the breakfast table nearly every day. The days we don't is because we didn't get up in time. In other words, we didn't make it a priority that day! Afterward, I take some time for my own devotions so that I can pray and journal (Mornings are the best time of my day for spending time focused on God).

Church - You might say that's easy for you because it's your job to be there. That's true, but even when it wasn't my job, and even if it weren't, it would still be a priority. Church is where the body of Christ gathers, why wouldn't I want to be a part of that? For Paige, serving is important so attending one, and serving one is a priority for her.

Home Team - I'll be honest here and say that sometimes I don't feel like going, but I'm always glad that I did! We need to do life with other believers. I lead a group for new believers (pouring into others), and attend one led by someone else (my brother-in-law Steve). I need both. It's important that we lead people toward maturity in Christ, and it's important that we continue to grow to become more like Christ.

Date Night - It's essential that I take time to focus on Paige and my marriage. Sometimes our date night gets trumped, but we find ways to spend time during the week and we don't let that happen very often.

Sunday Lunch - With Caleb away at school and Josh working varied hours, this is a time that we connect as a family. We don't accept many invitations to things on Sunday afternoons because this is a priority. Occasionally someone can't be there, but we try to make this a weekly priority. Lunch is usually around 3, but it is still lunch!

After these things come everthing else. I would love to take some classes, but there's no time, because other things have higher priority.

How do you make sure you have enough time to do what God has called you to? What do you not do that you want to do because of how you prioritize your time?

Headaches - Perspective

2008-02-06T09:27:00.000-07:00

Instead of me writing about DCAT, check out Greg's blog (http://www.gregrohlinger.com/), he does a great job summarizing the conference. I was looking at my notes, and boy are they scattered!

Since I fell and hit my head (OK smashed my head) against the front door in the condo in Hawaii I have had multiple symptoms like a concussion. I finally went to the Dr. this morning. They're going to run a CT Scan, but we have a good idea of what the results will be.

Because I have had concussions before, the Dr. said that it doesn't take much of a blow to the head to set off symptoms. The headaches and other symptoms could last anywhere from another week to a few months. Not what I wanted to hear! It's really depressing to think that I may have to endure these added challenges for some time. Sometimes life is hard enough.

Honestly, I wasn't happy with God after my Dr. appointment! Just what I need, more physical challenges. No, my faith hasn't weakened, and I trust that He has a purpose in this, but right now that's hard to see, and a little hard to deal with. Truly, His grace is sufficient for me, and I have no doubt that He loves me, but I am human, and have human emotions. I hate headaches, and the foginess (and dizzyness if I move to quick) and inability to focus (beyond normal, and the increased sleepiness (beyond normal), and nausea is frustrating! Especially, since I am in a busy season right now. As usual (and more so), I will be trusting God to get me through each day.

Amazingly, I have gotten a ton done so far this week and the kickoff of the New Believer Growth Group went well. It certainly isn't stopping me, but it is slowing me a bit. Prayers are much appreciated!

When I got back to the office after seeing the Dr., I had a voicemail that a young teen we had been praying for had died of the cancer he was fighting. Boy, does that put things in perspective! Things can always be worse!

This young man had such a great spirit. I had the privilege of baptizing he and his mom not too long ago. The family asked about getting some New Believer Bibles to hand out to those who come to the memorial. How cool is that! What a powerful testimony he had, and his legacy will be in putting God's Word, the Words of Life into the hands of many who don't know Him!

Headache?! Who cares! "Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world!" I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!"

Hawaii - Part 2

2008-02-03T21:49:00.000-07:00

I'll post about the conference itself in another post (or a few), but I wanted to share about the rest of the trip itself.

After my last post on Wednesday, we were headed over for the opening session of the conference when I fell down the last few stairs in the condo we stayed in and my head tried to open the door. Front doors don't open outward, which would have been really helpful. To make a long story short, I'll have to look at my notes because I have no idea what happened Wednesday night! I still have a headache and a little brain fog, so if it's still there tomorrow I will go to see the Dr. (It wouldn't be my first concussion, and I wouldn't be surprised if it isn't my last).

The conference was amazing and challenging (more later). The site was beautiful. After dinner Thursday, Paige and I took a walk along the shoreline looking at the critters in the tide pools and watched a beautiful sunset (I think sunsets in AZ are better, but this one was nice). The place wasn't as important as the person I was with! After 24 years of marriage, I love Paige more and more every day!!! She is my best friend and we had such a great week together. I am so grateful that she was able to go to this conference with me. It was cool to see her taking notes on what God was teaching her too.

The passages in the Bible reading this week were so fun! God is so great!

Friday night we got to go to Cheeseburger in Paradise in Waikiki. It was so cool! If you know me, you know I love a good burger. The juice was running down my arm! That's a good burger! We picked up some t-shirts for the boys (and us) and headed to the airport for a midnight flight.

What should have been a 51/2 hour flight took 11 hours! After about an hour of flight time we had to return to Hawaii because of a medical emergency on the plain. It was a God thing that we were on the flight. Adrienne (who is a nurse) was called into action. Greg was able to spend some time with a hurting family and pray with them. The rest of the staff (those who were awake) were all praying (individually and as couples). We finally landed in Phoenix at 1:40 AZ time.

No sleep and a lot going on, but Greg's messege was powerful! I know of at least 4 first time decisions this weekend! What a great way to finish off the week. Oh yah, the Giants shocked everyone (except Brent) by beating the Patriots.

I hope to get some good sleep tonight. It's going to be a crazy busy week, but that's a good thing because it's all kingdom stuff and lives are being changed because of it!

Hawaii Rocks!

2008-01-30T11:41:00.000-07:00

I know it may come as a surprise, but we are having a great time in Hawaii! It has rained (poured!) off and on since we got hear, but that's no big deal. We brought ponchos and they have worked out great.

On Monday we went whale watching. What an amazing experience. We saw so many whales we lost count! We were barely out the harbor and one came almost completely out of the water, making a huge splash not far from the boat. Even on the way back in we had one about 50 yards from the boat and about five or six taking turns popping their heads up out the water like a whack-a-mole game. They had a great buffet lunch on board.

Afterward we drove up to Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay, and watched the surfers in the big waves and in the pipeline. It was very cool to see some really young surfers shooting the curls. It was fun to watch. We went to Roy's for dinner, an upscale restaurant here at the resort.

Tuesday was kind of a patriotic memorial day. We started at Pearl Harbor and toured the Arizona Memorial first (I was surprised to see how old the ship was). I've always wanted to see it. I love history, and being an AZ native it has always been a dream to visit. It was a solemn experience, more powerful than I can describe.

We went to lunch, then toured the USS Missouri. The battleship was finally decommissioned in 1992. We saw the marker where Japan surrendered. The ship even served in Operation Desert Storm. It was interesting to see the 15" guns and Tomahawk missiles on the same ship!

We finished the tour at the Punch Bowl which is a military cemetery in a crater overlooking Honolulu. It was powerful to see the memorial to the missing (over 28,000), and the graves of so many who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom!

The day ended with a BBQ with nearly all the staff and trustees who are hear for the conference. We had a blast! We were so tired, but stayed up until 10:30 talking with John and Jillayne. If you don't know them, you should take the time to! We have had a blast spending time together.

Paige and I slept in this morning (until 7) and today's plan is to rest, hang out at the beach, and enjoy the opening night of the conference. I can't wait!

Connecting Point

2008-01-24T07:40:00.000-07:00

Beginning February 5th we will be launching a new video based discussion series called Connecting Point. While primarily designed for new believers, it contains core teaching that anyone can grow with. I am so excited to finally launch this series!

I have learned a lot about creating and producing materials of this nature. I've done some video teaching in the past, but that was as a youth pastor (many years ago) and using an old fashioned video camera (it had the VHS tape inside). Quality was terrible, and I had no clue how to edit. For this series, we're using real video equipment and Don who is shooting and editing the material, really knows what he is doing. Even the rough cuts that I have seen look good!

I am praying that this series has a huge impact in leading new believers in their next steps of growth. I get to lead the first group to use the material and I am anxious to spend time with people who are hungry to grow in Christ.

We still have a lot of shooting to do, and I could use a lot of prayer that it all comes together as God has led.

Off to Hawaii

2008-01-21T22:14:00.000-07:00

It might seem a little odd, but Paige and I are going to Hawaii next week, and that's no the part that I'm most excited about!

For years, I've attended Pastor's conferences and seminars only to come home and try to convey to Paige what I had learned and how I was impacted. This will be the first time in a long while that she will be attending with me and I am so excited! I can't wait for her to share in the experience with me.

True, the conference is in Hawaii, and I am sure that we will have a great time. I am not downplaying how much I am looking forward to going to Oahu with Paige, but I am so excited about her going to the conference with my, it wouldn't matter where we were going, even if it were across town. The conference is being let by Wayne Cordeiro, author of the "Divine Mentor." If you haven't read this book, I strongly recommend it.

Most of our staff and their spouses are going, as are several of our legal trustees. It will be a significant event in the life of our church and I am glad that we are sharing it with those who support us and partner with us most.

While we are there, there are a few things we hope to do. We want to see Pearl Harbor and the Arizona. We want to go whale watching. We also want to go snorkeling. We aren't strong swimmers, but we had so much fun when we went to Kona several years ago we are looking forward to doing it again. We also want to take some time to simply relax!

I'll blog about the conference when we return. Please pray that God "disturbs" us and challenges us to new depths in spiritual growth, and new heights in ministry. We're going from Sunday night to Saturday morning. I can't wait!

Why I Journal

2008-01-17T08:01:00.001-07:00

I have always wanted to journal, but have never disciplined myself to do it consistently. The Route 66 Journey we are on at Palm Valley Church has helped me with that. When we began reading the One Year Bible, I also committed to journaling. I'm so glad that I did!

As I look and listen for God to speak to me every day, I need to write down what He says! He is God, and I have a terrible memory. His conversations with me are the most important of my day, and I need to be able to reflect on what He has said to me, and refer to it.

If taking notes in meetings is important, how much more important is it to take notes when you sit at the feet of God Almighty!

I have already been reviewing some of the things God is teaching me and it is so great! I understand Him more and I remember more because I have taken notes and am reviewing them. Forever a student of the Master, I want to be mentored every day by Him and journaling helps me to be a better servant of His teaching.

I began using the SOAP method which is very simple. You can learn about it at www.pvcroute66.com . Check it out! If you've never tried it, I challenge you to try it for three weeks and see if God doesn't bless you through it. The Israelite kings had to write the law for themselves and study from their writings. What a great example!

New Believers Come with Baggage

2008-01-16T07:44:00.000-07:00

This shouldn't be a surprise, but to some it is. Christians often think that everyone thinks like them, has the same moral and ethical values and boundaries, and have some knowledge of what it means to be a follower of Christ.

While that might be partially true for many of those returning to their relationship with Christ after running from him and doing their own thing for a number of years, it is often not the case for many making their first time decision to follow Christ by giving their lives to him.

Jesus said it was the sick who need the physician, and I see that to be true over and over again. When people come to Christ for the first time, they don't have any idea what they're getting into. Some are living sinful lifestyles, some have no social understanding or boundaries, some carry the baggage of years of hurt, or of hurting others. Others carry guilt or the baggage of a religion they were "involved" in, but never understood.

So how to we change these people into mature believers? WE DON'T!

Let me clarify. Our job is to love them in Christ, teach them to get to know Jesus and pray for him to work in their lives. We aren't their judge, but that doesn't mean that we condone sin. We need to coach them and mentor them along the way, and allow the Holy Spirit to convict and reveal his purposes in their lives.

2 Timothy 2:2 says that we need to teach God's truth to others who will be able to teach others also. In other words, we need to reproduce what God has done in our lives into the lives of others, who will reproduce what God has done in their lives in the lives of others who will do the same.

We need to lead them toward maturity, and let God change them. Everyone has a part, the person needs to learn to feed themselves and seek God, God will continue to touch their hearts and fulfill his purposes in them, and we need to be humble servants who love and care for those God brings our way.

Working with new believers can be messy, but it is so rewarding! There is nothing like seeing the light turn on when someone hears from God in their life. We simply need to help them learn to hear from him every day, and we need to make sure that we are doing the same!

Happy Anniversary!

2008-01-14T17:14:00.000-07:00

To Paige, my love in this life, happy 24th anniversary!!!

At once it seems like we've been together forever, and at the same time, like we just met. How amazing it is to go through this journey of life together. We've seen tough times, and great times, and we've seen God work over and over.

We have both changed over the years, and I wouldn't miss it for a moment. I love sharing life, love, and ministry together. Together we're a great team, the parents of two incredible boys (young men).

I love to stay home and snuggle because you enjoy that. I love to go on adventures, because I like that, and you enjoy the sights with me. We've seen some incredible works of God, and we've participated in some too.

I will love you, honor you, protect you, and continue to help you grow in Christ as we grow in Him together.

I LOVE YOU!

Sunday in Review

2008-01-13T22:26:00.000-07:00

It may sound redundant, but I'll say it anyway, what an AWESOME day! I'm sure it can get better, but it hardly seems possible. So many lives are being changed, and the excitement level around PVC is so charged up that it's obvious that God is doing huge things in the hearts of many who call PVC home, and those He is bringing. We have felt that God was about to do something big, and if this isn't it, then hold on to your hat for when He does! Here's some highlights of the day/weekend:

- Adam rocked "Move Along"! Okay, honestly, I had to ask him to explain it to me - Oh, I get it!
- Derrick was really funny introducing "Oh, Happy Day"! - Oh, that version!
- Some of the best messages are simple! Greg did a great job explaining Bible study, journaling, and the SOAP method (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer).
- Twelve people came to the Fresh Start Class. There were some powerful ministry moments after the class. God is really challenging some of these new believers, and some are facing some huge battles!
- We had crowds at the Fresh Start Table after some of the services. Pray that the Lord brings workers to the harvest! It was really cool to talk to one couple who gave their lives to Christ for the first time, together during service!
- If I haven't said it before, the stage looks awesome!!! Thanks to Derrick and his team for all their hard work!
- I miss Caleb! That sounds random, but he went back to school this week and barely stopped by for lunch today before heading back to school. Just having him around is a blessing. I'm so proud of my boys!
- Greg seemed over-dressed for PVC :-). It must have been winter attire (For somewhere)!
- I still saw lines for Bibles and journals! WOW! We've sold over 600 Bibles. People are so excited about reading Scripture together! Many of the new believers are on the journey to, that's so cool!
- J.T. rocks! I thank him a lot, but never enough for all that he does. He leads our set-up and tear-down of the check-in stations and helps with putting up and taking down banners, and helps with the big stuff in elementary (He has the gift of strength). Today during tear-down he looked really winded. He said he had been walking fast to get in a workout while he was serving! I think he's one of God's "mighty men" that it talks about in the O.T.! Thanks J.T.!!!
- I can't wait for next week!

Route 66 Update

2008-01-10T09:33:00.000-07:00

I hope that you are doing the daily reading and keeping up with the www.pvcroute66.com blog. Paige and I are reading Scripture together for the first time in our 24 years of marriage (our 24th anniversary is on the 14th!). We have just had different times that we each studied and for no real reason, we just haven't studied together. I have to say that I love it! I love her and to now share this together is so awesome!

I have been journaling every day. This is my goal for the year, so I'm following through so far.

I love the way the One Year Bible lays out the daily readings!

I think I'm reading the passage about three or four times per day, so by the end I'll really have grown in knowing God's Word. Paige and I read at breakfast, I read alone in my office and journal, I read with staff each morning (Monday through Thursday), and I read ahead working on Home Team curriculum. It's not a burden, I'm having the time of my life spending this much time in the Bible! One of the cool things is that God shows me something different with nearly every reading.

If you haven't started, don't worry about getting caught up, just start! Then if you get time, go back and pick up what you missed. Start, and start now!

You Know it's a Bad Day When...

2008-01-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

I was making a bunch of phone calls to some new believers here at PVC the other day when one asked when the next Fresh Start Class was going to be. He said that he had gotten a postcard the other day with a September date! Ugh! I sent out 75 postcards that said September instead of January! Fortunately, besides me, our Fresh Start Team is making calls too. Hopefully people will figure out the error and look on-line, or ask at the Fresh Start Table.

If that's the worst thing that happens, that's not too bad! I spoke with some new believers who were not just excited about their new faith, but excited about reading the Bible too. I hope our regular people are as excited as these people are and stick with it!

We should have a good crowd for the FS Class on Sunday!

Life Is A Highway!

2008-01-06T22:11:00.000-07:00

WOW! What else can you say after a weekend like this?! I don't think there has been this much buzz about a series at PVC since PureSex. People are so excited about getting into the Bible and hearing from God for themselves.

Derrick and his team did an awesome job on staging and music. It's too bad Pete can't play guitar very well :-)! The guy flat out rocks it, and he's a USC guy too!

The classic cars on the patio and the route 66 road signs along the walkway were great touches.

The message was simple and straight forward, Greg did a great job (as usual).

We had at least four first time decisions for Christ just today!

People are so excited. Some people we have been inviting were planning to come, but didn't make it. We'll keep praying!

We read day 6 together as a family after dinner at the table tonight. What a blast! If you don't think reading the Bible is fun, you need to be at our house when the boys are around. It was a riot! From Abram chasing birds, to Joshua's comment that the Amalekites sure seems to get beaten by God's people a lot, it was a lot of fun!

The song "Life is a Highway" with the "Cars" movie background was a lot of fun.

Of course on life's highway there are bumps too. Friday's shots were a lot more painful than they should have been and it's been a tough couple of days. I'll talk to the Dr. tomorrow to see what's up. Just one more round of shots to go this coming Friday. I was still able to be at church and pray with some people (Including a friend heading for Iraq!). The life change happening at PVC makes any pain worth every moment!

Route 66: The Journey Begins!

2008-01-02T12:36:00.000-07:00

Route 66 begins at Jackson Blvd. and Lakeshore Dr. in Chicago, Ill. The actual beginning has moved around a bit over the years, but this is where our journey begins. This is at Grant's Park which borders Lake Michigan.

Things to see in the area:
Clarence Buckingham Fountain
Union Station
Sears Tower
The "L"
Wrigley Field
Chicago Water Tower
Lou Mitchell's Restaurant

On the road toward St. Louis:
White Fence Farm
Rialto Sq. Theater
Launching Pad Drive-In (With an GeminiGiant out front)
Polk-a-dot Drive-In
Odel - Standard oil station
Funks Grove - Maple syrup since 1891!
In Springfield:

Bill Shea's Gas Station
Cozy Dog Drive-In
Route 66 Drive-In
Route 66 Dream Car Museum
Abraham Lincoln (enough said!)

Ariston Cafe

Check these places out on-line, or go there!

Don't forget to go to www.pvcroute66.com to follow along the Bible reading blog as well!

Two Minute Tuesday - Fresh Start

2008-01-02T12:26:00.000-07:00

2007 went out with a bang with 19 people committing or re-committing their lives to Christ here at PVC! That means that about 266 people had there lives changed at PVC in the past year! God is so amazing, and we are so blessed that He chose us to be a part of the life change process in the lives of these people!

So what's in store for 2008? Hang on for the ride, because it's going to be even more amazing than last year! I obviously have no idea how many people will connect or re-connect with Christ at PVC this year, but even if it were only one, we have a significant work ahead of us! I believe that it will be many, many more, and won't venture a number because that's God's thing, but I will say that we will make every effort to endure that each person who makes a decision for Christ this year will connect with God's Word and His church.

There will be some new materials coming out this year that will help us better accomplish our purposes. Stay tuned!

In the mean time, here are three things that you can do to help new believers at Palm Valley Church this year:

1. Connect deeper with God yourself. Be sure to do your daily devotions. Here from God every day!
2. Pray for the Fresh Start Team, for Diane as the coordinator, and for me as the pastor in this area.
3. Serve graciously! Not under compulsion, but with a joyous heart. Bring others into service with you!

I can't wait to see what God's going to do!

Route 66 - The Best of Both Worlds!

2007-12-31T21:22:00.000-07:00

In less than three hours 2007 will be over! I am so excited about what's ahead for 2008!

I grew up a car guy, and while I have never driven the entire Route 66, I've been on parts of it and am keenly aware of the heritage it represents. I love cars, old and new, and a broad variety of styles. I like trucks too, especially old ones that have been restored. I love racing (most types), and used to race (primarily endurance Karts). I like working on cars, though there's not a lot a guy can do on a newer car. The boys and I just changed the brakes on Caleb's car and on Paige's car. So, I'm totally into the Route 66 theme that Palm Valley Church has chosen for our "Year of the Bible.

I totally love the Bible! I am amazed every day that God reveals something new to me that I can immediately apply to my life. The power of the Holy Spirit to reveal God's truth is a certain drawing card. Think of the Bible as a collection of mentors who have written for us to gain wisdom for life, to teach us about God, and to provide a road map for us to follow as we enter and grow in our relationship with Him. It is a living document, though the words do not change. Sixty-six books. The Route 66 wasn't named for the number of books in the Bible, but the journey is the same.

Beginning tomorrow morning, we begin our adventure. I hope you will join us! You can follow along by going to http://www.pvcroute66.com/ . I'll be blogging here as well about where we are in the Bible, and where we are on the old Route 66. Come enjoy the ride!

What an Amazing Christmas!

2007-12-27T21:01:00.000-07:00

Here are some reflections from the past few days:

- I'm sure that it could have been better, but I'm not sure how! It all began with Christmas eve Services. We had 5 services and we saw life change at all of them. A total of 19 people made decisions for Christ and many of those were first time decisions to become followers of Christ!

- With all of the illnesses floating around it was God's provision that everything went as well as it did. Adrienne had no voice, and Greg's voice barely hung on until the end. I'm not sure of the final count, but my guess is around 3,000 people. The message was a clear presentation of the Good News of Christ. Anthony's testimony was powerful!

- We gave our families the NLT 1 year Bible and asked them all to read through it with us this next year. I can't wait to see what we all learn! As Palm Valley Church does this together, I can't wait to see what impact it has on our community.

- We were able to see nearly all the members of both families over the weekend. It was very cool to have 34 people at our home for dinner on Christmas. We really missed those who couldn't be here, especially my sister and brother in Colorado and their families.

- We had a great time launching rockets in the back yard. Not having neighbors made it a lot safer, though one did end up on the roof!

- It was crazy but fun in the office today. I had some great conversations with people today. There was also an opportunity to stretch my faith as well.

- Tomorrow I go in for my 2nd epidural injection. I'll be out most of the day. I'm nervous about this one since it will be the first time we have done it in my neck. I know that God is in control, it's just the not knowing how I will respond to the shot that has me a bit anxious.

I hope you had a great Christmas too!

"Fun" Day Off!

2007-12-21T19:52:00.000-07:00

Friday is my day off. I typically plan some down time and a nap. For the next four Fridays (Beginning today), I'll really be getting some rest!

This morning I went in for an epidural shot in my lower back. I have a torn disc and the pressure and pain just gets overwhelming at times. The shots help for a while. I also have arthritis in my neck from a previous break. So, for four weeks in a row, on Friday mornings, I'll be going in for shots, alternating each week between my low back and my neck.

The shots are done with live X-ray and they put me out while they do it. I wasn't sure what to expect recovery wise today since it's been a couple of years since my last shots and I have a different Dr. doing them now. I figured that I would be sleepy for a while and a little sore, but I was wrong!

For most of the day I could barely make to the bathroom on my own. I was very weak and my legs were like Jell-O. This evening is better, but I am worn out after doing anything, and I'm having a hard time focusing and getting comfortable in any position. Somewhat frustrating, but it is what it is. Now that I know what to expect, I will be better mentally prepared for the next three weeks. Unfortunately there will only be bowl games for the next two!

Since my legs were so weak from the shot in my lower back, I wonder what it will be like after the shot in my neck. Maybe I won't be able to hold my head up. Have you ever seen a bobble-head pastor?

Thank you to those who knew what was happening and were praying!

What's Wrong With Christmas?

2007-12-20T08:26:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in a previous post, I love Christmas. It would be so easy for me to over the top buying Christmas presents (OK, I do somewhat, especially for my buys and my wife Paige). For me, giving gifts at Christmas is a way to express my love. God gave us the greatest gift, Jesus. So what's wrong with Christmas? If you didn't know, several elements of the Christmas story as we typically celebrate it are not exactly as they originally happened. Here's a few:

- Jesus wasn't born on December 25th
- The wise men didn't come to the manger
- There was no little drummer boy
- Not a Christmas tree in sight

Does it really matter? If you're explaining the story from a Biblical perspective, it does. Read the story in Luke 2 and see what it actually says. That said, practically speaking, it doesn't matter! What matters is that we celebrate the greatest gift ever given!

Christmas is the day we choose to celebrate as the day Jesus was born. What matters is the event, not the date. The other details are secondary to the story. The focus is on the fact that God became man to live among us. He gave us an example to follow by His actions, then paid the price for our forgiveness so that we could reconnect with God. There is no greater gift that can be given! We give gifts to each other to commemorate this event.

The only day that should be a bigger party is Easter. So, party on, and give!

Question

2007-12-19T07:41:00.000-07:00

Here's a question that I have been praying through.

When we begin equipping new believers,do we focus on the cost of discipleship, the benefits of discipleship, or a combination of both?

Of the limited material out their for discipling new believers, the vast majority focuses on one end of the spectrum or the other. There is little if any decent material available which takes a blended approach.

The cost approach focuses on what we give up to follow Christ. It focuses on "counting the cost" and on "carrying our cross" and on "denying ourself". These are all Biblical concepts, but do they scare people away? Some would argue that if someone is scared away, they didn't really believe to begin with.

The benefits approach focuses on the promise of heaven and eternal life. It acknowledges that we will struggle in this life, and that we must put Christ first, but focuses on "will not perish but have eternal life" and "my burden is light" and "cast your cares upon Him". Some would argue that this Utopian view of discipleship leaves people weak and without deep convictions leading to holiness.

Is it not possible to blend these two? If we teach people to love God and love others aren't we capturing both approaches? Loving God includes the cost and benefit teachings of Scripture. Loving others is the active side of our faith. It is practical holiness, what I believe Jesus modeled. Jesus lived the cost, but didn't dwell on it because He knew the benefit outweighed the cost. He was trying to show this as He ministered to people. His focus was on reconnecting people to God, which leads to holiness and therefore receives the benefits, and connecting people with community, which is holiness revealed to the world (see Matthew 5:16).

So what does a blended approach look like? How do we teach both at the same time? That's what I am working through. I would love your prayers and ideas!

Prayer Request

2007-12-18T08:25:00.000-07:00

Please pray for me the next four Friday mornings at about 8:30. I'll be sleeping a lot on those Fridays! Actually, I am going in for epidural shots in my lower back and neck. I can't wait (both joking and serious)!

We don't know if the shots will work in my neck, but we are going to give it a try. Please pray that it is successful!

The hope and prayer is that I will get pain relief and gain function. They put me under in a surgical room to do it, then I sleep a lot in recovery.

Should be fun!

Two Minute Tuesday - Preference VS Purpose

2007-12-18T08:14:00.000-07:00

Our purpose is very clear - To love God, and love others. The way we accomplish that, or live that out often is governed by our preferences. Some prefer to worship to a particular style of music, or to attend a service with a particular style. Over time, churches tend to develop a particular style. Just like people, churches develop personalities. The down side is that after some time has passed, it is often difficult to make necessary changes to reach a changing culture, or paradigm. The upside is comfort and stability.

One constant here at Palm Valley Church is change. Not change for change sake (though some may think that is the case), but change to make sure that we are doing everything we can to fulfill our purpose. Our Ministry to New Believers is no different. God has been speaking to me a lot lately about how we encourage new believers to take the next step in their spiritual journey. Shortly after the first of the year, I'll blog specifically about the journey and the changes that are coming. Right now, I'm asking you to pray for me. Over the past couple of months, God has been "disturbing" me, and challenging even some core methodologies that I was discipled with years ago. It's beginning to come together and I can't wait to see the finished product. I believe that it will shake things up, but that's a good thing! Stay tuned!

Guess Who's Coming for Christmas?!

2007-12-14T22:39:00.000-07:00

I love Christmas. I love nearly everything about it. I mostly enjoy hanging out with family I don't always get a chance to see. This Christmas I'm going to get a lot of that :-)!

We typically alternate Thanksgiving and Christmas between the two families. This year is with Paige's side of the family, or at least that's what we were planning until...

Tonight was my niece Amanda's graduation! We are so proud of her. My sister and her husband are in town for the event and decided to take a golf vacation and stay until Christmas.

Of course my mom was coming over for the graduation, so we got her to stay for a few weeks, including Christmas.

When my oldest sister found out my sister from Texas was coming, she and her oldest daughter decided to come too.

Then my little sister called and said since everyone was coming, her family would be coming too.

Since most of the family was coming, I called my other sister and my brother to see if they could come too. Unfortunately, neither could, but there will be four of the six of us together for Christmas. That's pretty rare and I will take full advantage of the opportunity.

I know this threw a curve ball to Paige's family (Sorry!), but I can't pass up this opportunity to spend with my family. I can't wait to share what we are doing for everyone for Christmas!

So, along with Paige's family, and now mine, we're having over thirty people at the house for Christmas dinner. Eleven will be staying here.

My favorite Christmas tradition is getting up early to open presents. Before we start we read the Christmas story from Luke 2 in the Bible. We've done this since the boys were in pre-school. It gets us started right, focusing on Jesus - the reason for the season! What's your favorite tradition?

I can't wait!!! :-)

"I, the Lord, am your God!"

2007-12-13T07:43:00.000-07:00

As I continue my journey through Leviticus (Chapters 18 & 19), the purpose of "the Law" becomes clearer and clearer. I know that the Law is our "Tutor" which points us to Christ, but sometimes I forget that it was meant to set God's people apart from the rest of the world. We are to be holy as God is holy. We aren't to live as the world lives and value what they value. God's people are to be different. We are to be set apart. Today, my prayer is that I would not only do holy things, but that I would be holy, as He has called me to be.

Feeding Others

2007-12-11T07:52:00.000-07:00

Tis' the season. During this time of year we focus on those in need around us. We give food, we serve food, and we send money to purchase food. This is all good and it is desperately needed, but I want to talk for a moment about a different type of starvation.

People all around us are starving. Many don't even realize it. Many Christians don't even notice. I'm talking about those who accept Christ, and starve because no one will feed them. Now, understand what I am talking about here. I am a huge proponent in, and firmly believe, that we need to feed ourselves spiritually by maintaining good habits, or disciplines, such as prayer and Bible study. I truly believe that it is not the church's responsibility to feed mature Christians, but to equip them to feed themselves.

That said, my heart aches for those who are starving. I'm talking about those who have just accepted Christ, or have returned to Him after trying to live life on their own terms, discovering that it is Christ who brings "fullness" of life. These are spiritual infants who cannot yet feed themselves. We would never let a newborn starve to death, we would feed him/her. Why are spiritual newborns any different? Isn't our spiritual life as important as life itself?

Why then are so few Christians willing to feed others? Why don't we have a line of people begging to help new believers learn to feed themselves? I would think every mature believer would want to lead a home team, and serve in a ministry geared to new believers. I know that I am biased, but don't accuse me of tunnel vision here. I know the church has other needs. We need people to feed children, literally and spiritually, as well as other needs. What I am talking about here goes beyond program to lifestyle.

I think part of the problem is that many Christians don't consider themselves mature. This is sad in the church today, with all of the resources that are available, to have such immaturity. I think anyone who has been a believer long enough to be able to find things in the Bible and talk to God is mature enough to help feed infant believers.

The bottom line is that we need to raise the importance of feeding spiritual infants. We need to feed them until they are able to feed themselves. Just like babies, it doesn't take long, only a few months, but they need help until then. We need people to step up and feed the hungry!

Infamy

2007-12-07T11:27:00.000-07:00

Today is another of our nation's memorial days. This one is unofficial, but like September 11th, it is no less significant than the official one we celebrate the last weekend of May. Today is the anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. It is the day that the USS Arizona sank, taking thousands to their deaths. It is also the day that pulled us full force into WWII.

For those who serve, served, or survive those who paid the ultimate price for others, I remember, and I say thank you for your sacrifice!

Sin - We Get Off Easy!

2007-12-06T08:08:00.000-07:00

In my personal devotions I am reading through Leviticus (and Acts) right now. I usually avoid this book, but God was telling me that I needed to study it, so I am. One thing that struck me today is just how easy we have it when it comes to forgiveness of our sins. 1 John 1:9 tells us that if we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. A simple prayer and were done, or at least that's what we often reduce it to.

In the Law, receiving forgiveness was much more involved. It required a great cost and great effort. It also required time! I'm sure the Israelites took sin a lot more seriously than we do.

Now, I know that we are forgiven by the blood of Christ who became the one sacrifice for all. What I'm talking about is the fact that we don't always think about that cost when we ask God to forgive us, at least I don't. That's why I am wondering if, in some ways, forgiveness is too easy for us. We need something to remind us of the significance of our sin and the cost for it's forgiveness. What reminder do you use?

Two Minute Tuesday - Thursday already?!

2007-12-06T08:01:00.000-07:00

Sunday night we had the Fresh Start Team over to our house for dinner and some equipping. After a great video from Pastor Greg, I shared some thoughts with the team. I challenged them to be in the Word of God every day. To focus on their relationship with Christ because it is out of that relationship comes our ability to care for new believers. If our tank is empty, how can we fill the tank of someone else?

At the end of our time together I saw our Ministry Coordinator Diane act on a prompting by the Holy Spirit to pray over each of the team and Paige and I. It was a powerful moment and it was awesome to see God use her this way. She is such an encouragement to me and to see her fulfilling what I was just talking about was great! It was obvious that she is walking with God because if you aren't, you won't hear His voice. She not only heard His voice, she acted and did what she was being led to do.

Thanks Diane for your example of love and obedience to Christ!

Sick and Tired!

2007-12-06T07:48:00.000-07:00

The saying, "I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired" really applies today! I've been sick since last friday with an upper respiratory infection. It started as a sore throat, just some sinus drainage, or so I thought. By Sunday my throat was killing me and teaching the Fresh Start Class was really painfull. It was a great class though, and I'm glad God got me through it. It is such a blessing to see new believers who are eager to grow in their faith! Sunday night we had the Fresh Start Team over for dinner and some equipping. I'll post about something significant that happened :-). Monday I couldn't function. The only relief I could get was from taking some codein based caugh syrup. That stuff knocks me out (which is what I needed). Tuesday I was back at it, but not feeling well. I saw the Dr. in the morning and he put me on some horse pills that are just now starting to take effect. I still don't have a voice, but am beginning to feel human today. Usually when I am sick it is a one or two day thing. This has lasted far too long!

The thing that bothers me most about being sick like this is the pain that coughing causes. Because of the muscle disorder, every cough is like getting punched in the ribs. After a couple of days, I feel like I've gone a few rounds with a fighter. The fatigue factor because of the pain is tough, but God is good!

Yesterday I took a day for focused prayer and study. Even though I wasn't feeling well I wasn't about to miss this day to spend alone with God! It was still a great day. The last time I had a prayer day I ended with more questions than answers. This time I began getting some answers. I love hanging out with God and can't wait for the day that I can do it full time. As I wrote that I could hear myself saying that I can spend all day every day with Him now. This is true, but I'm talking about eternity apart from this world. I do however, need to focus more on Him in the small moments of the day.

I know this is random, blame it on the meds, but I wanted to get my brain going and these thoughts were there. Sometimes, you gotta go with the flow!

Two Minute Tuesday - Celebrate!

2007-11-27T08:15:00.000-07:00

I can't wait for Sunday! I especially can't wait for this Sunday when I get to hang out with the Fresh Start Team at my house for dinner! These people love Jesus, and they love people who are getting to know Jesus. They inspire me and challenge me to work hard on their behalf.

We need to get together more, and I'm going to work on that. I want to celebrate what this team means to me, and to new believers that God brings to Palm Valley Church. Many of them have faced difficult challenges this year, which makes their faithfulness all the more special as examples to me and others.

Jesus called for workers for the harvest. God continually brings a harvest to PVC and these workers are ready. We can always use more, and we would gladly welcome others to the team, but these people rock!

Our vision to encourage people to take the next step in their spiritual journey is an integral element in the church's vision to lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ.

Thank you for leading people to take the next step!

Is Multi-Site Biblical

2007-11-27T08:03:00.000-07:00

I loved reading this post from JD Greer this morning about the multi-site church. It made me think about some things I hadn't thought of. Here's a link. I encourage you to read it.

http://jdgreear.typepad.com/my_weblog/2007/11/is-the-multi-ca.html

One thing he points out is the phrase in Acts 2:42 that says "they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching. How did they do this? There were thousands of new believers meeting in homes. They didn't have curriculum, DVDs, or podcasts. Did the apostles teach a lesson and then others taught it in their homes, or did the apostles split up and each go to a number of homes to share the same message? Hmmm!

From Darkness to Light

2007-11-26T08:17:00.000-07:00

The past couple of months have been tough! A "side effect" of some of the physical things that I deal with is chemical depression. It occurs every so often, and fortunately doesn't last too long. I have been dealing with it for the past couple of months.

There are only a couple of medications that I can take because of other medications that I am on. The medications that I can take, I really can't, because they shut me down. When I am on them, I can't function. That's no way to run a railroad! So, for the past couple of months I have endured, and survived, by the grace of God.

I am finally emerging from the darkness into the light and the difference is so amazing!

If you have never dealt with depression, it's hard to understand the cloud of darkness that consumes you. For those who face it chronically, my prayers are with you and my heart goes out to you!

As I was praying this morning, this verse came to mind. Thank you God for releasing me, and giving me light!

1 Peter 2:9, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."

Two Minute Tuesday

2007-11-20T07:45:00.000-07:00

I first want to say thank you and welcome to two new members of the Fresh Start Team. Ken has a great heart and has served at PVC for some time. I have worked with his wife in the hospital ministry. They are great people you will want to get to know. Velma is new to PVC, but has served Christ for some time. I am excited to get to know her and her husband. Along with Connie, who has such a compassionate heart, the team has grown by three in the past several weeks. Keep praying that God sends workers to the harvest!

I want to focus for a minute on love and joy. In your personal and spiritual life, I encourage you to foster, focus, and grow in these areas. Learn to love God more and draw closer to Him. Learn to love people more and focus on drawing them closer to Christ, especially those our culture considers "unlovely" or "unlovable". May your joy increase as you grow closer to Christ and others and get to Him and His people better and better. Out of love and joy comes the best service! If you aren't serving out of love and joy, we need to find you another place to serve. We also need to spur one another to greater levels of love and joy. Not just as we serve new believers, but in life.

As we prepare for Thanksgiving, take some time to express your gratitude to God for what He has done and continues to do in your life. Thank Him for the opportunity to be used by Him to help others grow closer to Him. You do a great work serving new believers.

I love you all and my heart is filled with joy when I think of you and the ministry we have the privilege of sharing in together!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Paul

What I'm Reading

2007-11-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

I finished Isaiah and have launched into a study of "The Law" by reading Leviticus. I love the exacting detail of each law. Today I read chapter two about grain offerings. I love how everything is done with purpose. I am sure there was much more meaning and significance in that culture, but I can tell by the detail what a spiritual moment the offering was. It makes me realize that I need to find a way to add significance and focus to my offerings, especially with automatic withdrawal.

I am also finishing the book "Static" which has really challenged me. After reading "The Divine Mentor" and "The Life You've Always Wanted" I will read it again and study through it. I'm not sure how I ended up reading three books at once (in addition to the Bible), but I love the challenge!

For those who read this blog, I would love to know what you are reading!

Ministry 101 - Wineskins

2007-11-16T08:08:00.000-07:00

A longtime pastor friend of mine recently asked if I would bring some of my materials from my years of church consulting to work through with his elders. As I thought about it, I told him that I wouldn't use anything from my past, that there is much better resources available now.

I have recently thought more about this. Jesus talked about putting new wine into old wine skins. The church is different today than when I was consulting with churches. Change occurs much more rapidly, or at least it should, and while the purpose remains the same, churches are much more varied in the way they carry it out through individual vision.

Certainly there are leadership principles that transcend time, but tools to implement them and ways to communicate them change.

An example of how things change occurred to me yesterday when I picked up a book I have on the parables and metaphors of Christ. As I began to read it, I realized that this old book (I got from an older pastor's library), was basically written in a different language. It was in English, but not the language we speak today, and certainly not the Bible version I use for reading or for study. I wasn't grasping the message because I was having to concentrate so hard on the language. The message may be terrific, but if our hearers have to reinterpret it in their minds and then re-apply its meaning, so much is lost, and way to much effort has been spent (A lot could be said here about how we present the Gospel today).

I am in a sense, re-learning ministry. There is much that I can apply from the experience of my past, but the tools for today demand willingness to re-learn and to re-apply. Fortunately, there are great speakers and writers today who articulate well the principles for leadership in the church. Some things are still applicable and I love it when I here them again in new forms.

The bottom line is that we must continually learn to apply principles in a changing world. Don't assume what you learned before can be shared in the manner you learned it and that it will be understood. Application is much more important today than theory, but the theory must still be explained so the application will be effective. I'm not saying that we should never read old books, but we need to take full advantage of what is available today!

Two Minute Tuesday - Team Building

2007-11-14T14:45:00.000-07:00

OK. So, it's Wednesday again and I'm just getting to my two minute Tuesday entry. May I should just call it "Wacky Wednesday" or something like that, but then of course, I wouldn't get to it until Thursday!

I thought I would take a moment to write about building a team. Here are some thoughts:
1. Building a good team is harder than you think!
2. Sometimes good people don't fit the team!
3. Sometimes you have to say goodbye to team members you love.
4. When you look for new team members, look for people who will help fulfill vision and purpose, not replace someone.
5. Maintaining a great team takes a lot of effort.

In our New Believer ministry, I think we have a great team and we are continually adding to it. We are always looking for people who love new believers!

Veteran's Day

2007-11-11T21:50:00.000-07:00

Not many in my family have served in the armed forces that I know of. That doesn't mean that my appreciation for those who have served and are serving is any less than if they had.

Jesus said that there is no greater love than laying down your life for a friend. Many have laid down their lives not just for family and friends, but for people they would never know. They serve out of a sense of honor, responsibility, duty, and a number of other reasons that I can't begin to understand.

I am grateful beyond measure for their sacrifice for me and my family. As we celebrate Monday our armed forces, active and those who have served in years past, I simply, humbly, and proudly say THANK YOU!!!

Weekend Review - Wedding Celebration

2007-11-11T21:29:00.000-07:00

What an outstanding weekend all around! Here's some thoughts:
- I saw Michael in a very pastoral role and he did awesome caring for someone struggling through a tough situation. It was great to see God using him this way. We don't often get to see Michael's pastor's heart shine through, but it's there. If you don't know him, you should take the time to!
- Our staff cleans up real good! Several of us wore suits, and Greg even had cuff links. I haven't worn a suit in about 15 years. It was actually kind of nice, but don't get used to the look!
- People really got into the vow renewal/re-affirmation services. I even saw a couple of ladies in their wedding dresses. It was obviously powerful and meaningful to so many.
- Paige is still hot and looked amazing today (of course, she always looks amazing, but even more so today!)! We re-affirmed our vows. We have a great marriage and didn't feel the need to renew them (She wants to on our 25th anniversary), and it was cool to re-affirm our commitment to live with Christ in the center of our lives and our marriage.
- The Seize the Moment event was fun. It was great to connect with people new to the church. It was also cool to see the video again. It's a great reminder.
- Greg did an awesome job incorporating the Gospel into the service today. Lives were changed! I think we had at least one person come to the Fresh Start table after each service. It's awesome to see how God works in people's lives!
- Derrick did a great job on music and on the thanks to our veterans and sodiers (More in the next post).
- Caleb had some people over tonight for dinner and some training. I was so proud watching and listening. He is becoming a great leader and his heart and passion for ministry is amazing.

Just some quick thoughts - What a great weekend!

Two Minute Tuesday - Movement

2007-11-07T07:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know that it's Wednesday, but I couldn't take time to write yesterday. Most of yesterday was well spent at a one day conference with Greg Hawkins from Willow Creek talking about the study they outline in the book "Reveal". Powerful stuff and a lot of take-a-ways.

One of the main things I took and want to hit on here is that we are in the people movement business. We ask God, and by His power, to use us in the process of moving people who are far from Him into a closer relationship with Him.

The measurement is not attendance at programs, but in movement toward Christ. That doesn't mean that programs don't have a place, but we need to remember that they are not the end purpose.

How does that apply to our Ministry to New Believers? It's all about relationship!!! As we connect with people, and help them feel a sense of belonging, they are more likely to take the next steps available to them. They won't simply "attend" the next step events, but they will apply them as steps toward Christ.

We must emphasize and focus continually on building relationships with people who God brings to us. If we don't, they will simply be numbers at events instead of life change stories of people taking the next steps in their discipleship journey.

Sin

2007-10-31T07:40:00.000-07:00

In the book I am reading "Static" there is an illustration of how a missionary related sin the Japanese culture. It was discovered that "shame" best illustrated what the Bible says sin is. In other words, the Biblical concept of sin was translated into not only the language, but the culture as well.

This got me thinking about how we look at sin in our culture. The concept is pretty much lost on our postmodern society. If we need to retranslate the word and reapply it to our culture without watering down the Biblical concept, what does that look like?

The book focuses on Luke 4:18 as the reason Jesus came. Certainly not the only thing Jesus says about why He came, but this passage is significant in giving us a broader context to understand that Jesus came to do more than forgive sin.

As I began thinking about how to apply this, these thoughts came to mind.

Jesus came to free us from social stigma, religious legalism, and personal shame. That freedom provides a way for us to reconnect with God.

Look at the interractions between Jesus and people and the things that He said. This is a summary of those things in a context I think that people can grasp. I would love to hear other thoughts on this. I'll unpack this statement and the ramifications of it in upcoming posts. For now, let it soak in and pray about how we communicate the concept of sin in our culture today.

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T07:34:00.000-07:00

I never thought I would hear myself say that. I have always hated that we give a day to Satan. This morning God brought a thought to my mind. Satan's going down (literally too!)! Take a look at these passages and celebrate what will happen to Satan: Mark 3:27, John 12:31, John 16:11, Matthew 25:41.

Rejoice that Jesus has come to release us from bondage and to truly set us free (See John 8:36 and Romans 6:22)! Happy Halloween.

Two Minute Tuesday - Connecting People

2007-10-30T08:06:00.002-07:00

We must never forget that ministry to New Believers is all about connecting people.

Our first priority is connecting people to Christ. We are Christ with skin on to many who we encounter. We must live, act, and speak in a way that draws people to Him. When people come to the Fresh Start table, we need to look at them as someone who is connecting with Christ. We become the water, so to speak, in helping the seed that has been planted to grow. Without water, the seed will die. If we don't connect with them, they are more than likely to not remain connected with Christ.

Our second priority is to connect people to others. We must connect with them first. Our connection with them needs to lead them toward their next steps in their growth. If we don't connect with them, they are likely to drift and perhaps not connect at all.

It is significant and important what we do. The time and effort is well worth it. Whenever someone takes the next step in their journey, you should rejoice that God used you in that process. Keep it up, and take time to celebrate what God is doing through you and through the church!

Ministry 101 - It Really is All About Jesus

2007-10-30T07:47:00.000-07:00

As a pastor, it is easy to get caught up in the day to day events of work, and before long it can become just like any other job. This can happen on the weekend too. You can get so focused on what needs to be done that you miss what God is doing. This is especially true if you have ADD and are task oriented, both of which, I am convinced, are very common among pastors.

When you read the title of this post, you probably said something like "DUH!" But before you think the topic is too simple to write about, hang on a minute.

How is your personal devotional life? What book of the Bible are you studying and what are you learning, not just what book are you reading. For me, it is Isaiah chapter 59, and God is showing me that He is always faithful, and that His purposes will be fulfilled with me or without me, and it will go much better for me if it is with me. I am also reading the book "Static" which is challenging the way I think about terms such as Kingdom, Repent, Sin, Salvation. It is taking me back to Scripture which to me is a good book.

How is your spiritual life with you spouse? I have to be honest here and say that that is a weak area in my life, but I have set some goals that will help me grow here. Paige and I have a great marriage, and we both love the Lord. How much better will it be when we are loving Him together more?!

Where are your thoughts most of the day during the week? Are they looking forward to your day off, or on projects outside of the church? I think we all struggle with this at times. We need to make sure that our prayer life challenges us daily to focus on Christ and His purposes for us and the church we serve.

What do you think about on the weekend? Are you thinking about who is playing in the game that afternoon, or what's for lunch, or...? The weekend isn't a time to let down on your prayers, it is the time to crank it up a notch because that is when Satan will attack the hardest. Every pastor, I am sure, has had a day that he just didn't want to get out of bed and do anything, that's just being human. It's in those moments that we draw on Scripture and prayer and rely on God's strength and power. It is usually those days when you can see God work clearly.

If we continually focus on who Jesus is, and the many reasons He came, it is much easier to live every moment serving Him. The tasks are purpose driven (not just a book title!) and God will bless you! Of course it also means that Satan will attack harder in a greater variety of ways, but the Holy Spirit will empower you to overcome!

It really is all about Jesus. We must expend every effort to grow in Him and encourage others to grow in Him as well. We live this out by loving others, especially the unlovely, and encouraging others to love as well.