In the life of Luke

God is Good!

2010-06-09T13:55:00.003-04:00

“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren,I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:12-14

God is so good! First off, He allowed Ohio Christian University to schedule a week break during the exact date of my families move from Ohio to Texas, and now a devotional that hits home for us this very moment.

Our devotional this week states, “When we mean to do good, opposition abounds. But the Scriptures remind us to persevere, to press on toward the goal, toward the prize.”

This is what we are doing and living this very moment. On faith my family and I moved here jobless. Satan has been attacking us from every angle, hoping to derail us from the calling of God on our life. Knowing that God has called us here, we know full well that God will provide all our needs according to His riches in Glory (Philippians 4:19), and we know that He will give us our daily bread (Matthew 6:11) so that my family will not be forgotten, because My God even cares for the lilies of the field and the birds in the air (Matthew 6:26-28).

I also recognize that Satan has to get permission to attack (Job 1) but even in the trials I hold to Romans 8:28, “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

A Science class post

2010-05-10T18:04:00.004-04:00

The Big Bang
The text states about 14 billion years ago the Big bang occurred. It says and I quote “An INCOMPREHENSIBLY large explosion that sent all matter of the universe flying outward at incredible speeds. In time, the debris from this explosion, which was almost entirely hydrogen and helium, began to cool and condense into the first stars and galaxies” (Tarbuck, 4). So if in fact the Big Bang was so INCOMPREHENSIBLE, then why are we forced to comprehend it?

• 14 billions years ago - the Big Bang occurred
• 10 billion years ago - Stars were created
• 5 billion years ago – Sun was created
• 4.5 billion years ago - the Earth was created from molten form
• 3.8 billions years ago – the First oceans

The Creation from God’s Word – Genesis 1-2:7
The creation story in the Bible, is a beautiful account found in Genesis chapter 1 through chapter 2 verse 7. This does not seem too difficult to understand, or incomprehensible. A Creator (something bigger and more powerful than us) created everything we see and don’t see (to the tiniest detail).

• Roughly 6,000 years ago
• Day 1,2 - Water covered the Earth
• Day 3 - Dry land and plants
• Day 4 - Sun, Moon & Stars
• Day 5 - Sea and flying creatures
• Day 6 - Land animals and Man

I said this a few weeks ago, that I have an interesting perspective on the creation of Earth. I believe there could have been a big bang. But I believe the big bang came from my Big God’s mouth, the Creator of all things, when he said, "Let there be Light!" BANG~ something happened in that moment. When the Creator speaks the whole Earth trembles!

lil warrior <><

Amazed by Desperation Band

2010-05-07T13:39:00.002-04:00

Often times I listen to worship at Pandora while I am completing my weekly homework assignments at Ohio Christian University (to block out the family noise in the background). Every single time this song comes on, I am taken back by the words and I just sit there and worship my Almighty God. Is there songs that you come across that really speaks to your heart like this song does to me?

Until the whole world hears,
Luke <><

2010-04-17T08:35:00.002-04:00

As I was doing my homework assignments for my Earth Science class at Ohio Christian University I came across a question that asked, “Which controls of soil formation is most important.” I was intrigued by the different factors that create “good soil.” Then I think God gripped my heart and sent me to Matthew 13 where it talks about the different soils. The “Good soil” in the parable from Matthew 13 says, “The seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God’s word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” Reading through the different factors or controls, I was like well each of these are important, in fact, I was sold on the fact that climate was the most important when the text said, “Climate is the most influential control of soil formation.”

However, as I continued to read, I was informed that several controls or factors are involved in creating “Good soil,” such as; parent material, time, climate, plants and animals, and topography. Neither of them are most important, but they all work together to form good soil. All these factors or controls make soil what it is. The goal of a Christian, with respect to the parable in Matthew 13, is to be good soil. So what controls or factors in our life help create good soil in our lives, soil that will “produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted?”

I immediately think about when I feel the closest to God and His Spirit, and it is when I am consistently in His Word, in communication with Him, and listening and obeying His ordered steps for my life. If I am a fully devoted follower of Christ in a passionate relationship with my Creator, then He will create a soil in me that will “produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” That’s when a good fruit inspection is in order…are you producing any fruit for God?

Have you been washed?

2010-03-29T18:15:00.005-04:00

“Unless I wash you, you won’t belong to me.”

John 13:4-17

"So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him. When Jesus came to Simon Peter, Peter said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus replied, “You don’t understand now what I am doing, but someday you will.” “No,” Peter protested, “you will never ever wash my feet!” Jesus replied, “Unless I wash you, you won’t belong to me.” Simon Peter exclaimed, “Then wash my hands and head as well, Lord, not just my feet!” Jesus replied, “A person who has bathed all over does not need to wash, except for the feet, to be entirely clean. And you disciples are clean, but not all of you.” For Jesus knew who would betray him. That is what he meant when he said, “Not all of you are clean.” After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing? You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. I tell you the truth, slaves are not greater than their master. Nor is the messenger more important than the one who sends the message. Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them."

I love the example of Jesus in this passage. He wanted and willingly knelt down to wash the feet of his disciples. He used this moment as a teachable moment. I love this subject, and I pray that I will be and continue to be a servant leader wherever I am. The ultimate servant leader was Christ Himself. In this passage Jesus kneels down and begins to wash the mud and dirt off of His disciple’s feet. A job meant for the lowest slave, but not for the most Humble of Kings.
I have participated in many foot washing ceremonies. In fact, my most memorable foot washing was when I was passing the torch from being the leader of a Bible Study group to the next leader. I took the leaders bare foot in my hands, and said to him, "Serve them, with everything in you, serve them like Jesus, and love them like Jesus." Then the leader washed everyone's feet in the study. It was quite a sight. What would your subordinates think if you decided to wash their feet?

Ownership

2010-03-19T18:16:00.000-04:00

“Fear and dread shall fall upon them; by the greatness of thine arm they shall be as still as a stone; till thy people pass over, O LORD, till the people pass over, which thou hast purchased.”
Exodus 15:16

I love the term of possession or ownership that this passage portrays for us. The imagery of being purchased and a possession of the Most High God can be an extraordinary thought. In 1 Corinthians 6:19b-20, it says, "You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body." I think John Wesley makes a great note about this particular verse. "Glorify God with your body, and your spirit - Yield your bodies and all their members, as well as your souls and all their faculties, as instruments of righteousness to God. Devote and employ all ye have, and all ye are, entirely, unreservedly, and for ever, to his glory." Those words speak of someone who is a living, breathing asset for God. I know my life's ambition is to be as much like Christ as possible, and in that noble pursuit, I will be His asset! Blessings to you all!

Blessings, Lil Warrior

"Hello world! Ready or not...here I come!"

2010-03-08T13:07:00.010-05:00

My son Preston Joshua Pollock was born on 16 February 2010 @ 0646. He was 19 1/2" long and 7.4 lbs. He was delivered via c-section at Med-Central Hospital in Mansfield, Ohio. What an amazing experience to have another BEAUTIFUL son that my Daddy in heaven fashioned together in the my brides womb. What a gift!

To Preston,

Welcome to the Pollock family. You do not know us yet, but you will. We have been praying for you since we found out that you were conceived. God has blessed us with another wonderful child to raise up in the mighty army of God. Our prayer for you is to know the True God at a young age, that you will live your life in accordance and authority of Jesus Christ. Preston your life verse that mommy and daddy have been praying over you is found in Mark 12:30 where it says, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." That is our prayer for you. Your first name Preston means "Priest" and your middle name Joshua means "God is salvation!" Know that you are truly loved and have been lifted up and bathed in prayer, from the very beginning...and even cooler...God has predestined every one of your steps, and He loves you so much.

Welcome and we love you,

Moma and Dada

Tribute to Grandpa Pollock

2010-02-21T11:46:00.007-05:00

This video was created in honor of my grandfather. He died on January 11, 2010, he was 91. The amazing story is that he remained true and faithful to my grandmother for 67 years of marriage. In the hospital bed, with only a few hours left in his life, they displayed such an amazing portrait of love. It was in that moment that God whispered in my ear and said, "You think that is awesome love, just imagine how much more I love you!"
That tore me up. I sat there and just stared at this wonderful example of love. Yes, I cried because I am going to miss Gramps, but it was his death, that God whispered into my heart, "I LOVE you, my child!"

This video is a picture collage of their life together. Thanks Clint for creating/editing this beautiful video, which continues to bring tears to my eyes every time I watch it.

Identity Theft - 1st sermon

2010-02-10T17:55:00.001-05:00

Here is the link to my first sermon ever. I do not have the embed code yet so this is all I can do right now. Hope you are blessed by it. Would love to hear your comments.

http://newhopewired.homestead.com/Loudonville/media-ldv2.html

That's my King!

2010-02-04T23:23:00.001-05:00

I have posted this video before, however, this video is great and worth the watch! Enjoy.

Worship Wednesday's - Casting Crowns - Who Am I?

2009-11-04T16:22:00.004-05:00

I absolutely love this rendition of Casting Crown's Who Am I? Well done UPC Conference Church. Hope you are blessed by these hands!

Worship Wednesday's - Casting Crowns - Voice of Truth

2009-11-04T16:08:00.003-05:00

This is a clip from the Huckabee show on Fox News. Casting Crowns has become one of my favorite bands. The reason I love them so much is because of their boldly honest, hard-hitting lyrics, they continue to challenge, strengthen and pour into the body of Christ, giving listeners a fresh, relevant perspective on loving God and loving people. Casting Crowns music is quite literally discipleship through music. This song in particular has meant a lot to me over the years. I hope it blesses you as much as it has me.

When No Referee Is Watching...

2009-10-07T16:23:00.004-04:00

This is a great post by Mark Beeson. Thanks Bud for sending this to me.

Last Friday I took my camera to a local High School football game. A couple of friends have sons playing for the Clay Colonials. LaPhonso's son is blocking so Rod's son can pass the ball. The ref is poised and watching, ready to throw the flag on any infraction. Depending on the school, it takes four, five or six referees to enforce the game's regulations.

How many refs do you need to keep you from breaking the rules?

Maybe today is a good day for a gut-check. Maybe it's time to ask the questions, "Do I keep the rules only when the refs are watching? Is the real reason I stay inside the boundaries because I can't step over the lines without getting caught? Will I cheat if no one is watching?"

I wonder who is ultimately responsible for how I play the game?

If I cheat, is it my fault I'm removed from the game? Or can I blame the ref for throwing the flag? Do I blame myself for losing government funding, or the people who video-taped me encouraging tax-evasion and child-prostitution? On whom do I pin the responsibility for my disqualification? Is it the whistle-blower's fault, or am I accountable for my actions? Did I lose my license because of "that stupid cop," or because I was driving drunk?

Maybe it's time to own up and accept responsibility.

In the secret moments, when no one else is watching, there are no referees to keep us from cheating. There are no refs behind closed doors. No referees will force you to keep your marriage vows. There aren't any refs watching over your finances, your forays across the internet or where you put your hands on your boyfriend.

You make the call.

There is no one to throw the flag on your behavior but you. You are responsible for you. So accept responsibility, reject passivity and do the next right thing. No shortcuts. No cheating. No broken promises. No secret sins. If you need God's help, accept it. Your future hangs in the balance...and one day, whether the refs caught us and threw the flag or not, we're all going to be exposed. We'll be judged - every single one of us.

There are no secrets. God is not mocked.

In the end, no one gets away with anything.

Psalms 82:7-8 - In death you are mere men. You will fall as any prince—for all must die. Stand up, O God, and judge the earth. For all of it belongs to you. All nations are in your hands.

The introduction of Jesus by Steve Harvey

2009-10-06T18:47:00.004-04:00

How would you introduce the Lord of Lords? I was pleasantly shocked hearing this come form Steve Harvey, but it was pretty good nonetheless. Thanks Jeff Selph for the link.

Worship Wednesday's - Help Is On the Way

2009-09-30T14:44:00.002-04:00

This is what I am worshiping to today. Maybe like me, you need something miraculous to happen in an area of your life. May the words of this song bring peace to you when True Peace is hard to find, except in God! It is a Gospel-inflected, powerful statement of hope, this song will help your fellowship declare the truth of God's Word that He will never leave us or forsake us and find assurance in His faithfulness. "Hold on, help is on the way!" By the way I love this site.

Praise and Worship Music Videos by mypraisesong

[Verse 1:]
People say that time will heal/But you know, they just don't feel what you feel/Times are hard but God is so good/He's never failed you, and He said He never would/
He see's your tears
He fights your fears
[Chorus:]
Hold on, help is on the way/He said he'd never leave you or forsake you/Stay strong/Help is on the way/He'd said he'd help you/Just reach out and take his hand
[Verse 2:]
He knows your heart, He lifts your head/He's always close enough to hear every word /you said When you're weak, He said He's so much more/His arm is long enough to each you where you are/
He see's your tears
He fights your fears
[Chorus 2x]
Help is on the way 10x

That's My King - S.M. Lockridge

2009-09-17T18:16:00.003-04:00

The late Dr. Shadrach Meshach (S.M.) Lockridge's famous "That's My King" message. It is one of his best-known messages. It is a six minute "attempted" description of our Lord Jesus Christ. I say "attempted" because it is the best description I have ever heard, however, part of me says that even S.M. Lockridge would think that his description is still lacking something because our mere words can not fully describe His Majesty! So sit back with the volume up, and bask in everything that God is and more!

What do you think? It gets me fired up, That's the King I serve!

Worship Wednesday's - Alabaster Jar

2009-09-16T13:01:00.002-04:00

This is what I am worshiping to today, I hope you find rest in Him today!

Verse 1:
This alabaster jar/is all I have of worth/I break it at Your feet, Lord/It's less than You deserve/You're far more beautiful/More precious than the oil/The sum of my desires/and the fullness of my joy!
PreChorus:
Like You spilled Your blood,/I spill my heart as an offering/to my King.
Chorus:
Here I am, take me/As an offering/Here I am, giving every heartbeat/For Your glory take me.
Verse 2:
The time that I have left/is all I have of worth/I lay it at Your feet, Lord/It's less than You deserve/And though I've little strength/And though my days are few,/You gave Your life for me/So, I will live my life for You.
Bridge:
Worthy, Worthy/You are worthy/Worthy is the Lord./(repeat as desired)
(Chorus)

The Still Small Voice, or " Do what I say or puke all over....its your choice!" Part 2

2009-09-08T17:25:00.004-04:00

Well, on with the story...

Evangelist and Pastor Rick Webb, from Fraser Road Church of God in Michigan, was challenging the audience with the words found in Romans 8:28 "And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them" (NLT).

I was sitting there with my family, knowing that God was calling me to speak in front of these 400 people, whom I have never met. I do not attend the Church of God, and I was a guest to this campmeeting. I didn't know the protocol. Is this excepted or allowed? How do I even approach someone about this? Do I just go up to a microphone? All these thoughts are going through my mind, along with, Lord I can't/shouldn't do this.

Well, God was getting my attention, I was literally about to puke all over the place. I have never felt that sick, so suddenly. I leaned over to my mother-in-law (not to puke on her) and asked how I should go about this. She suggested to go up and talk to the evangelist. So that is what I did...

Now that is a tough job to be in for the evangelist. To really discern whether you have a Word from the Lord, or not. Because he mentioned afterward that sometimes you get people who say all the right things up to get up there to speak, and the truth is that they just like to hear themselves speak, and it wasn't essentially God led.

So he obviously sensed that I needed to get up there right away (maybe it was fear of ruining his nice suit with my vomit).

So here I am in front of 400 people (give or take), and I supposedly have a Word from the Lord for these people. But, I have no idea where to start. It felt like an eternity. So I mustered out a quick introduction of who I was, and what I was feeling (you know sick) and that I believed God had something for someone to hear. It could be for the whole multitude or for one person. It may have only been for me to learn to be obedient in all things. Once I finished my introduction, it was no longer me speaking. Say what?

It was no longer Luke (lil' warrior) speaking. Sure it was my voice, but it was God's verbiage. It was amazing to feel like God was completely in the drivers seat. Just like in Scripture when God told Moses that He would help him speak in Exodus 4, and during Pentecost in Acts 2:1-12, it says "As the Holy Spirit gave them this ability (to speak), God/Spirit was giving me the Words that needed to be said.

Have you ever been so consumed by God that you knew somewhat of what you just mustered out, but knew that God had used you as a mediator for His Words? Being used by God is the best feeling ever.

This week God spoke to me with this quote which I shared on my FaceBook and Twitter. "The only way u can live ur life 2 the fullest, is 2 fully rely on God!" Have we fully relied on Him in our lives? Do our lives stand as a testimony of our love towards Him.

I am reminded of the passage in John 21:15-17
After breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?"
"Yes, Master, you know I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."
16He then asked a second time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?"
"Yes, Master, you know I love you."
Jesus said, "Shepherd my sheep."
17Then he said it a third time: "Simon, son of John, do you love me?"
Peter was upset that he asked for the third time, "Do you love me?" so he answered, "Master, you know everything there is to know. You've got to know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my sheep.

Jesus asked Peter three times, the same amount of times that Peter denied Him. How many times does Jesus have to ask you?

Almost done I promise!

The Still Small Voice, or " Do what I say or puke all over....its your choice!" Part 1

2009-09-03T14:22:00.006-04:00

Funky title I know, but a true story and very real experience happened to me a few months ago. Sorry Greg that it has taken me this long to get it out.

A couple months ago my in-laws asked if I wanted to camp out and attend their churches annual campmeeting (it is kind of like a revival). Thinking how much fun the boys would have I agreed to come. I was only planning to camp a couple of nights, but once I heard the Evangelist Rick Webb, from Fraser Road Church of God in Michigan, I was drawn to stay the entire week.

I was amazed by which he spoke; with the awesome Authority and Anointing of God all over him. In fact, it had been a long time since I have experienced preaching like that.

Anyways, as I was sitting in service with my family, I started feeling sick towards the end of the service. I was wondering if I had ate something that didn't agree with me (which I had been eating camp food all week!) or what was exactly happening to me. My wife looked over at me and immediately was concerned. I was extremely pail, I was sweating profusely (which I am a B.S.G. - Big Sweaty Guy, so it happens) and I seriously felt like I was about to keel over.

Now I have experienced God's voice before, and I have felt the Spirit's leading in my life, but what I was experiencing did not feel like anything godly.

But, that is when I heard God saying, "When are you going to listen to me again?" Shocked (but not really) because I have heard from Him before, I wondered okay God clarification please! All of sudden I had an horrid, quick look back at all my recent acts of disobedience to God. The more I saw, the more sick I got. I was awakened to the saddened heart of my Creator, of every time His Chosen people disobey Him intentionally.

Have you ever felt God nudging you to do something, and you didn't do it? Maybe He wanted you to talk to a certain friend or a stranger. Maybe He wanted you to be a church planter, or to open up your home to lead a small group. Ormaybe He wanted you to step up in a specific ministry at your church, or to be Biblical leader among your peers? These types of things were flashing before my eyes, have they flashed in front of yours before? Have you ignored them as I have?

Well, have I got your attention? Come back tomorrow for the rest, it gets really good!

Great message for us today!

2009-09-03T14:06:00.002-04:00

All who are Thirsty

All who are thirsty.
All who are weak.
Just come to the fountain
Dip your heart in the
stream of life.

Let the pain and the sorrow
Be washed away.
In the waves of His mercy
As the deep cries
out to you.

Is there any song which better encapsulates the message we are taking to this world today?

We don’t see it because of all the ’stuff’ that our capitalist consumerism surrounds us with but we are all thirsty and all weak and all of us carry pain and sorrow.

Let’s get out there this week and invite people to come to the fountain of life and let their pain and the sorrow be washed away in the waves of Christs mercy.

Take God’s message of mercy, grace and love to the world. Be The Church this week!

Great message from Peter Pollock. What a great last name! Check out his blog here.

Who can you be the Church to today? Who are you bringing along with you, pouring into their lives God's message?

Matthew West - Great Story of Recovery

2009-09-02T14:54:00.003-04:00

Here is a good video of Matthew West's journey through recovery. Thanks Tom Roepke for the heads up!

A new era of wedding march!

2009-07-25T11:39:00.002-04:00

Does the traditional wedding march just seem a little to boring for your style? Check out this video that has had well over 4,000,000 views on YouTube! Thanks Jesiah for sending me the link! I love it!

Worship Wednesday's - If You Say Go

2009-07-12T00:26:00.002-04:00

If You Say Go - Vineyard Music

I have taken a lil' sabbatical from blogging. It seems to have been a while. I have missed posting things for you all to see. I look forward to getting back into the swing of things.

My friend Greg wants me to post an amazing story that happened to me a couple weeks ago. So be on the look out for that as well. I hope you all are doing well. Enjoy this weeks worship. Will you go when He says go, will you wait when He says wait? Wow, what a good lead in to my next post!!!

Missed the Hillsong Conference b/c Sydney is a lil' far?

2009-07-10T16:44:00.005-04:00

I came across this last night when i could not sleep. I turned the TV on and flipped to God TV and was blessed with worship and teaching from Jentezen Franklin.

The conference is supposed to last until tomorrow (11 July) but God TV is broadcasting it a couple times a day (I was watching at 3AM), check your local listings. With a greatline up: New this year are Joel Osteen (Lakewood Church) and Craig Groeschel (LifeChurch.tv). Returning speakers include Brian Houston (host), Louie Giglio (Passion Conferences) and Jentezen Franklin (Free Chapel Worship Center).

I hope you will be as blessed by this as I was!

Lil' Warrior

How do you Serve those who serve?

2009-07-06T17:11:00.003-04:00

I saw this Volunteer Appreciation video from Granger Community Church, in Indiana at the sticks conference here in Loudonville, Ohio at New Hope. It was a creative way to thank volunteers for serving. Hopefully the people who volunteer were actually in the service to get appreciated. What kind of things do you do to show your appreciation to the hardworking volunteer?

When I was directing a class, we had set July as our Volunteer appreciation month. Every July we would strive to get all the regular volunteer's a break by taking their spot so that they could go to service, come to class, and just have some social time with their classmates.

Another way that our class served our volunteers was to collect a few bucks. We put together a gift basket of popcorn, candy, and soda, and a free movie rental from Blockbuster, and then as a class we walked to where our volunteer was serving, so we could honor them as a group. It has been a great success.

What have you done to honor the ones who serve at your church so sacrificially?

Enjoy the video!

Dave Ramsey - Life, Hope, Money - Week 3

2009-06-17T16:23:00.004-04:00

Here is the last episode of Dave Ramsey's teaching from Lifechurch.tv. I hope they have been a blessing to you.

Worship Wednesday's - Healer

2009-06-17T16:00:00.004-04:00

In my search for an awesome worship song this week, I came across this great social networking site where everyone can share their favorite worship songs. The site is mypraisesong.com

Here is another amazing worship song by Hillsong. Healer again has powerful lyrics that I use to pray to God. "I believe You’re my Healer, I believe You are all I need, I believe You’re my Portion, I believe You’re more than enough for me, Jesus, You’re all I need." Let these words be your prayer today.

Dave Ramsey - Life, Hope, Money - Week 2

2009-06-14T10:41:00.000-04:00

Life, Money, Hope, Week Two from Lifecentre.org on Vimeo.

Dave Ramsey - Life, Hope, Money - Week 1

2009-06-14T10:39:00.001-04:00

Life, Money, Hope Week One from Lifecentre.org on Vimeo.

Worship Wednesday's - Sweetly Broken

2009-06-10T19:35:00.003-04:00

Sweetly Broken - Jeremy Riddle

I heard this song recently at Vineyard Church of Columbus. I was brought to tears once again, by the powerful presence of an Almighty God and amazing lyrics! I am however partial to Vineyard's rendition, but this is still a great song to worship to.

Are you broken today? Are you struggling with the current economic state our nation is in? Sometimes life comes at us hard, and breaks us.

It is at Brokenness that God can do the most work in us. I heard the quote the other day, in fact I even tweeted it. I said, "U can not fix what God can only mend!" It is at this hard state of brokenness that God wants and desires to show His Wonder to each and everyone of us. "At the cross You beckon me, draw me gently to my knees, and I am lost for words, so lost in love, I am sweetly broken wholly surrender! In awe of the cross I must confess
How wondrous Your redeeming love, and How great is Your faithfulness!"

Enjoy! The lyrics are on the video. If you are broken today, call upon the Great Comforter, Jesus Christ!

Worship Wednesday's

2009-06-03T11:01:00.002-04:00

My God is Mighty to save. Author of of Salvation. You rose and conquered the grave, Yes, you conquered the grave. Shine your light and let the whole world see, we're singing for the glory, of the Risen King.

Just a few of the great lyrics in this worship song.

Will you give your all for Him today? For He is Mighty to save! He gave His all for us! So shouldn't we give Him are whole heart, our whole mind, and all our strength?

Now, praise your God whom is Mighty to Save. He conquered Satan, sin, and death!
He is Mighty To Save!

Dad's Last Sunday......or his first?

2009-05-27T17:49:00.011-04:00

This was a picture I took from the congregation of Centerburg United Methodist Church, in Centerburg, Ohio. My dad has been the pastor here for seven years or so, and has been a Methodist pastor for over 26 years. He has decided to "Hang up the Robe" so to speak.

After many days of prayerful wrestling with a decision approaching, he has decided to take a leave of absence. He states that he is concerned with how the upper hierarchy of the Methodist Church is operating and the direction they are heading. I was joined by several friends and family celebrating my father's last Sunday behind the pulpit. Sunday, May 24, was a day to remember.

I was doing play by play via Twitter.

"Today is my dad's last day preaching in a Methodist pulpit, pray that God will be glorified. Way to go Dad! U had a gr8 run!"

"Sittin thru my dad's last sunday, & I am amzd @ how God has moved thru my dad n his 26 yrs of mnstry. wht a srvnt of the Most High God!

Many people have requested audio as well as his sermon transcript, here are some of the quotes:

"By not saying yes 2 God 2day u cud b saying no 2 God 4 all eternity! 2morrow is never guaranteed!",

"If ur ministry is going to count, its going to cost! The ministry that counts the most, costs the most! Endure the suffering!",

My dad says, "People n church are more concerned abt the sermon length then the sermon depth." Ouch!

One of my favorite things Dad said on Sunday that shocked me was: He quoted a person from the Centerburg congregation saying, "Sorry Gary, we really put you through hell." And he agreed, "You did!" You could have heard a pin drop it was so quiet. The sad thing was he had 26 years of going through hell. You just wouldn't think suffering for Christ would come from inside the church walls.

My dad's call to ministry, and "Ministry Verse" came from 2 Timothy 4:1-5. It also was the passage of his final sermon. It says, "I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he appears to set up his Kingdom: 2 Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.

3 For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will reject the truth and chase after myths.

5 But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.

It was a great message, a great day, and a great God was glorified. I think my dad summed up an emotional day just beautifully on his Facebook page later Sunday night. He said and I quote,

"Giving thanks to God this evening for family and friends who helped to make this day so much easier for me...it may have been my last day to share God's Word in a United Methodist Church...but I'll be dog-gone if it's the last time I share God's Word!"

Praise be to God!

Dad, I have never been more proud of you than I am right now. The steps you have taken, and the way you have taken them, has been honorable and encouraging for a son of yours to observe. I know you are true to your word when you said, "I'll be dog-gone if it's the last time I share God's Word!" God bless you dad, and every step you take for Him this day forth! Love ya!

Worship Wednesday's

2009-05-27T17:19:00.003-04:00

Welcome back to Worship Wednesday. Here is another outstanding worship song from Christ for the Nations, out of Dallas, TX. I stumbled across this school, ministry, etc... a while back, but I am continually astounded by the passionate songs/artists that have come out of there. And I have only started to discover them. Check them out when you get a chance, you won't be disappointed.

Today's song is "Running."

I hear the voice, the voice of the one I love,/He's calling my name./I hear the voice, the voice of the one I love,/He's calling my name./He's saying, come up higher, you'll hear the angels sing./Come up higher my beloved,/Come up higher and leave this world behind./You'll find me to be beautiful/(CHORUS)/I am running,running after You/You become my souls delight/I am running, running after You,/Here with You I find my life/One thing have I desired, this will I seek after
To dwell in Your house forevermore/Now I'm running after, the thing that really matters/You've become my joy and song./

Worship Wednesday's....are turning into whoops (i forgot) wednesday's

2009-05-21T11:20:00.004-04:00

God of This City
This is a great song, Chris Tomlin is not the original artist, that I know of, but he does a good job. This is a plea to God that He is not done moving supernaturally wherever we live. Through Him all things are possible (Phil. 4:13). Our (Acts 1:8) mission starts in our homes, and moves out to our streets and neighborhood, then moves across the city, and then eventually across the world. Lord, we plea that greater things are yet to be done on that street, in my village, in your town, in their city, and in our nation!

It all starts with hungry men and women of God asking, "Lord what do you want me to do RIGHT NOW, at this very moment for you?" Wake up every morning with your arms open wide to God saying, "I am yours, use me for your Kingdom today. Use me!" Let's take our schools, towns, cities, and our world back to God.

You're the God of this City/You're the King of these people/You're the Lord of this nation/You are/You're the Light in this darkness/You're the Hope to the hopeless You're the Peace to the restless/You are/There is no one like our God/There is no one like our God/[CHORUS]For greater things have yet to come/And greater things are still to be done in this City/Greater thing have yet to come/And greater things are still to be done in this City/There is no one like our God/There is no one like our God/[Chorus]For greater things have yet to come/And greater things are still to be done in this City/Greater things have yet to come/And greater things are still to be done here/There is no one like our god/There is no one like our God/[Chorus]Greater things have yet to come/And greater things are still to be done in this City/Greater things have yet to come/And greater things are still to be done here

Its not Wednesday, but... (I missed it this week!)

2009-05-15T11:14:00.005-04:00

I first heard this song at a Grace Point Church youth purity event in Texas and the words consumed me. It still consumes me every time i hear it. Let God grip you today through worship. Give it all to Him, let Him consume you. All of you. Its not until then that you are really Living. When He consumes all of you is when Life Everlasting begins.
Lyrics are on the video...Just Worship Him!

The thing I love about doing Worship Wednesday's, is that I get to worship to the song I am blogging about for sometimes hours at a time. Now that is Consuming Worship! Get Lost in the vastness of God's Presence!

Happy Mothers Day

2009-05-10T16:05:00.003-04:00

Moms are the best. They have given us so much of their time, love, and listening ear. Moms give up careers and sacrifice for the sake of the family many times. So to all the Mothers out there who have given so much of themselves...Happy Mothers Day! Here are a couple funny videos to enjoy on this great day.

Worship Wednesday's

2009-05-06T16:17:00.004-04:00

This quickly has become one of my favorite songs. Matthew West definitely strikes a nerve. This song is a very sobering reminder of my life. Early on in my Christian faith (I grew up in the church) I just did what I thought i was supposed to do. I was just going through the motions. But, (I love big but's in the Bible as well in my life) God radically smacked me in the face, about 6 years ago. I was one of those lukewarm Christians...the kind that Christ speaks through John in Revelation 3:16, "So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth."

Are you making God puke? Do you need God to smack you, too? or I guess I can in Jesus name! Wake up, to the Life He offers. Wake up and live a life of gratitude, for all God has done for you (i.e. Salvation, Grace, Mercy, and Redemption).

Matthew West - The Motions - Something To Say
This might hurt/It’s not safe/But I know that I’ve gotta make a change/I don’t care
If I break/At least I’ll be feeling something/‘Cause just ok/Is not enough/Help me fight through the nothingness of life/I don’t wanna go through the motions/I don’t wanna go one more day/Without Your all consuming passion inside of me/I don’t wanna spend my whole life asking/What if I had given everything?/Instead of going through the motions/No regrets/Not this time/I’m gonna let my heart defeat my mind/Let Your love/Make me whole/I think I’m finally feeling something/Take me all the way/Take me all the way/Take me all the way

Worship Wednesday's

2009-04-22T13:34:00.005-04:00

Welcome back to Worship Wednesday's. I heard this song a while ago and fell in love with it immediately. Take it in, All we need is your love God. Enjoy!

Shawn McDonald

SHAWN MCDONALD
As I sit here and think/About all that You've done/About how You gave me Your one and only Son/And I'm trying to fathom/All that You are, but so far, Lord/You're so beyond me/I fall down in reverence/And I fall down in fear/And I'm asking You, Lord, won't You please draw near/Won't You open my eyes/So that I can see/The way that You are working in me/All I need is Your love/To come and fill this heart of mine/My heart is a desert that has gone dry/And I need Your love to carry me bye, bye, bye, bye, bye/To carry me bye, bye, bye, bye, bye/To carry me bye/And I lay down my life/And I put it before You/All that I am is in Your hands/And I'm not going to question, why You're so faithful/Why that You give me the blessing that You have/Let the glory be known, let the glory be shown/Lift You up unto the throne/You are my God, You are my King/To You I give, I give You everything/All that I need is Your love, my God

Thaddeus - "Oh Larry Boy"

2009-04-22T12:53:00.004-04:00

This is my son's first recorded album! We bought this guitar in San Antonio, when we visited last, and he loves to play it. Two of his passions are displayed here, his love for the guitar and his love for VeggieTales!

Worship Wednesday's

2009-04-15T23:47:00.003-04:00

Here is the first ever Worship Wednesday post. In fact it is almost Thursday, but I have been without power all day, so I am just now getting to it. I hope you like this song. Like most worship songs, I love it! My Romance - Christ For the Nations

My Romance
Rick Pino

Look at the way the flowers bloom for You/They want to show You their beauty Lord/Running waters dance, You and I romance/Chorus: Unto You be all the glory./Unto You be all the glory (repeat)/Bridge:The angels dance around You/The earth it sings about You/Open up the heavens Lord/Let Your Kingdom come to earth/my praises all surround you/my soul can't dance without you/open up the heavens Lord/let Your kingdom come to earth

"How dare you, who in the hell do you think you are?" Mark Driscoll

2009-04-14T17:05:00.003-04:00

Mark Driscoll did a great job talking to men out there who need to step up and treat women with respect and dignity. Listen to Mark as he gets fired up (I will be honest I jumped!!) against them 'boys' in his own church that don't treat women with respect. Let's just say that it ticks him off ummm... just a little bit!

Do you like what he says? Tell me what you think!

De-baptism certificate???

2009-04-14T16:29:00.004-04:00

These are interesting times. This story out of London says that over 100,000 people have officially renounced their Christian faith through downloading their 'official' De-baptism certificates from the internet. According to a Google News report: "The initiative launched by a group called the National Secular Society (NSS) follows atheist campaigns here and elsewhere, including a controversial advert displayed on London buses which declared: "There's probably no God."

NEW CREATION

2009-04-11T20:41:00.005-04:00

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

New Creation from Pace Hartfield on Vimeo.

SING ALONG - or just worship by watching!
Holy Spirit hovering over the deep / Speak out the light and let it flood into me / Whisper the word that gave creation her form / I'm searching for a life that hasn't been there before / Speak light into the darkness / Breathe life into my lungs / Fill my soul as deep as the ocean / I'm reaching for your love / All that I can do is give it back to you / You've taken my old skin and made it new again / All that I can do is give it back to you / You've taken my old skin and made it new again / You have made me new , A new creation / All new, a new creation / Holy Spirit hovering over the deep / Bring out the colors that my heart's yet to see / The nights on fire for the warmth of your love / But every hour there's a risen sun / Speak light into the darkness / Breathe life into my lungs / Fill my soul as deep as the ocean / I'm reaching for your love / All that I can do is give it back to you / You've taken my old skin and made it new again / All that I can do is give it back to you / You've taken my old skin and made it new again / You have made me new , A new creation / All new, a new creation

What do you call yourself? and Why?

2009-03-19T17:15:00.004-04:00

Read this article, tell me your thoughts. The article from newsweek is entitled, "A Christian by Any Other Name" http://tinyurl.com/bp8bde

What are you? and, Why are you what you say you are?

P.S. My thoughts are...

The reason I choose the term "Follow of Christ," is because many claim to be Christians by just belief, where as I attempt to follow Christ in all aspects of my life. It says in the Bible in James 2:19, that even the demons believe that there is a God. So my point is, belief alone although good, is not enough to be a Jesus Freak. Do you completely rely on Him, or do you only rely on him when it is convienent? Even the demons know that there is a God. The demons aren't serving God, are you?

Michael Tait (DC Talk) + Newsboys + ATF (Aquire the Fire) = great times!

2009-03-13T18:24:00.003-04:00

Two of my favorite childhood bands DC Talk and the Newsboys have joined together with Teen Mania Ministries (which I also have ties with) to produce quite a worship experience on the Battle Cry tour. Teens lives are forever being changed in Christ's name! Looking forward to see this play out the rest of the year!

2009-03-05T01:26:00.004-05:00

This is my friends piano rendition of "Dare You To Move" by Switchfoot. Here are his comments: "My Piano arrangement of "Dare You To Move" by Switchfoot. I did this by ear. Hope you like it, I don't know if my stuff will stand out from all the others on here, but I'm putting it up anyways. Please comment, question, suggest, share, or favorite my video!! God Bless!"

What an amazing talent, and God uses him in so many areas. I am so proud to have gottent to know him more on Chrysalis Boys Flight #16 at Inspiration Hills! Good stuff man, keep it coming!

2009-02-20T17:55:00.005-05:00

Revelation Song, sung by Kari Jobe, is a powerful worship song from the album "Glorious" by Christ For the Nations Institute. Here are the lyrics to worship along. I pray that the Spirit of God meets you where you are right now!

Worthy is the,
Lamb who was slain
Holy, Holy, is He
Sing a new song, to Him who sits on
Heaven's Mercy Seat
[Repeat 2x]

(Chorus)
Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come
With all creation I sing:
Praise to the King of Kings!
You are my everything,
And I will adore You…!
Yeah!

Clothed in rainbows, of living color
Flashes of lightning, rolls of thunder
Blessing and honor, strength and
Glory and power be
To You the Only Wise King,
Yeah

(Chorus)
Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come, yeah
With all creation I sing:
Praise to the King of Kings!
You are my everything,
And – I - will - adore You!
Yeah!

Filled with wonder,
Awestruck wonder
At the mention of Your Name
Jesus, Your Name is Power
Breath, and Living Water
Such a marvelous mystery
Yeah...

(Chorus)
Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come, yeah
With all creation I sing:
Praise to the King of Kings!
You are my everything,
And – I - will - adore You!

Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come,
With all creation I sing:
Praise to the King of Kings!
You are my everything,
And – I - will - adore YOU…

(Chorus) (Repeat at a cappella)

Come up lift up His Name
To the King of Kings…
We will adore YOU Lord…
King of heaven and earth
King Jesus, King Jesus
Aleluya, aleluya, aleluya!
Majesty, awestruck Honor
And Power and Strength and Dominion
To You Lord,
To the King, to King
To the King of Glory

(Singer: Kari Jobe)

Iron Sharpens Iron

2009-02-20T17:17:00.004-05:00

Proverbs 27:17 says, "Iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens another."

I am so excited that I finally got to meet with an awesome man of God today.

We have been trying to meet for about 3 weeks now, I believe that Satan was adamant that he did not want us to meet. Finally in God's timing we had our first meeting, and it was so refreshing to sit and listen to a grown man pour out his life in front of me (and I in front of him) and then we poured into each other!

We were able to pray with each other, encourage each other, and just be real with one another! Man to man, with our Awesome God present, that is when true sharpening happens. We have decided to read through Into the Depths of God by Calvin Miller and extraordinary book, I highly recommend it to anyone that wants to learn to Grow deeper in their faith in Christ, because it is in the depths of God is where we find the True Treasure!

2009-01-02T18:56:00.002-05:00

Giving 150%

Ever hear someone say they give 150% in everything they do? They say that hard work, intelligence and attitude will get them everything they want.

So what does it really mean to give 150%? Here’s a little math to help figure it out:

If:

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Is represented as:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26.

Then

H-A-R-D-W-O-R- K
8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11 = 98%

K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E
11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+5 = 96%

A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E
1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5 = 100%

But there’s only one thing that will get you there:

J-E-S-U-S-C-H-R-I-S-T
10+5+19+21+19+3+8+18+9+19+20 = 151%

Jesus gave it all, in everything he did.

How much are you giving today?

“Jesus, thank you for showing us what it really takes to give it all. It is my only wish to strive to reflect your effort and sacrifice. Thanks for loving me 150% of the time. Amen.

Ramblings from a friend....

2008-12-31T13:14:00.003-05:00

I have a wonderful God-fearing friend that wrote from his heart the following, what God was revealing to him recently. I wanted to share them with my blogging buds, and hear what some of you think, especially the ones stressed out (at times) with being "culturally relevant." Please comment so we can have some discussion. At the start of the new year Intersection Church (a house church) will be launched!

RAMBLINGS FROM THAT GUY

I feel like that guy! You know that guy, the one that sticks out like a sore thumb, the one that is just a little bit different and doesn’t go along with the rest of the pack. Who am I? I am a 38 year old man being led by God to start a new church. Because of that calling, I have recently been reading books and magazine articles about ministries around the country and how innovative pastors are leading more and more un-churched people through the doors of their churches. These stories are usually well written, inspirational and insightful. However, I am confused. I am confused because my soul continues to be conflicted with each passing article.

First, I must say praise God that people who have never been to church before are now coming through the doors in many communities to hear the good news of Jesus. I know that this is a good thing (or should I say God thing). But I think I am going to spiritually vomit if I hear one more pastor or ministry leader write that our churches today need to be culturally relevant, that it is important to keep up with the changing times. Now, I am not trying to be difficult here or sound holier than thou but isn’t God already culturally relevant? Hasn’t he always been culturally relevant? And isn’t He the reason the church exists to begin with? I am told that I must continue to make my church attractive. You know, get them in the doors with contemporary music, video screens, pod-casting, etc. (culturally relevant). I am not against any of those things and I don’t think God is either But isn’t Christ attractive without any of those things? I am constantly told that I must compete with the world, use the things of the world if I am going to get people out of the world. Since when did Christ need to compete with anything or anybody? And what the world needs is not more of the world. They need something that is different, something that stands out, something that stands alone. They need Christ!

It seems as though our present day church culture takes the position of “get’em in the doors and we will get’em saved.” Now, I know that true Bible believing, vine abiding pastors and ministry leaders would never say this or truly believe this. But isn’t this in essence what is happening? I just wonder at what point did we give up on people; truly transformed Christ followers (you know people) to BE the church and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ wherever they are? Most everything I read these days is about being the church so we can invite unbelieving friends TO the church. As I hear it said, there they will be comfortable and accepted, you know the come as you are principle? I do believe that Jesus wants us to come to Him as we are but through what I call the Philip principle?

In John 1:43-46, Philip is called by Jesus to follow Him. Philip then goes and finds Nathanael to tell him that he has found the Messiah. Did Philip invite Nathanael to his church? No. He invites him to Jesus, to sit in the presence of Jesus himself! Philip found Jesus and he wanted Nathanael to find him as well. To my untrained mind (what little mind there is) it seems as though that same principle had applied for centuries throughout the Bible. People found God and then lived out a Godly faith life telling other people about the wonders of God and what He had done. God was enough! Supernaturally God brought them to faith where they surrendered to Him. But yet today, we say that the church must be culturally relevant to attract unbelievers. What about simply teaching the truth and holiness of God (the never changing truth and holiness of God) and allowing Him to bring them to Himself without church being their first stop?

I can guess what you might be thinking right now, “Oh that Greg is old fashioned, stuck in his ways and not a very innovative thinker.” I might even be called boring! But what I find so funny is that I only came to Christ eight years ago at the age of 30. I am not coming at this from the perspective of someone who grew up a Christian all my life and just stuck in my “all my life” Christian ways. I was attracted to Jesus because I saw Jesus being lived out in people around me every day. These people were different than the world and never hesitated to confront me with truth and the good news of Jesus Christ. They never invited me to church or brought me to church. They brought the church to me. They brought the living, breathing, active church (Jesus living inside each of them) right to where I was. Not the other way around. It wasn’t “come as you are.” It was “I will come where you are.” That is what changed me. And, I am convinced that because we don’t see people in our congregations actively doing this today, we have given up on them and have instead replaced them with a place, a building, a program, that can let them off the hook and do the work for them.

Now, the Holy Spirit has given me enough wisdom to understand that God can work in all ways, through all means necessary to reach the lost. And I understand that my salvation experience may not be the same for everyone. However, I am genuinely holy discontented that these well meaning, Christ following, called out pastors and ministry leaders have forgotten their first love and forgotten that it is all about Jesus. No gadgets, no gizmos, just Jesus (Jesus + NOTHING)! The place we meet and call church is a wonderful place to be. It is the place where we can come to be encouraged, taught, prodded, built up and then sent out to pursue Christ and those that don’t know Christ. But, I don’t believe that it was ever intended to be the place to invite our friends so they can get saved. This is Christ’s job working in and through us each day; the mobile church. These churches shouldn’t have to worry about being culturally relevant. If they are teaching Jesus and Him crucified and resurrected, they ARE culturally relevant. This message will always be relevant!

I know that many of you at this point have dismissed my ramblings as crazy talk from a guy that may be out of touch with modern society (that is if you have even finished reading to this point). But hey, I warned you at the beginning, I am that guy!

Greg Wukasch

Just a Thought that God Provided...

2008-12-23T21:45:00.007-05:00

I was doing my normal day of service as an intern at New Hope Community Church in Loudonville, Ohio, when God spoke to me....

I was asked to sort out the Christmas Eve candlelight candles from previous years to determine whether they are usable again this year.

As I was doing that and focusing on the size, condition, and usability of each candle, I found towards the completion of this task my standards had changed. I was allowing candles to pass my approval that earlier I would have thrown away.

Upon, realizing that my standards had changed gradually, God spoke to me and said, "My standards have never changed."

In 1 Samuel 16:7 it says, "But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."

In this passage Israel wanted a king to lead them (even though they already had the King of Kings). The Israelites wanted someone that fit the part. Tall, handsome, and strong. How does this fit my story....well I was doing the same thing Israel was doing looking only to what is presentable. God has never looked at our appearance or height (I thank Him in my case!) He looks at our hearts.

Our hearts need to be pure and holy. I love the verse in Psalm 139:23-24, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.

Do you desire for God to investigate your heart? Pray the last verse aloud with me, "Lord, point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Amen!

I pray that God will show you everyday situations, that He wants to use as a teachable lesson for you to gain a new perspective, a better understanding, and a deeper relationship with the Most High God!

And remember....

"Don't judge a book by its cover," or in my case, "Don't judge a candle by its wax!"

P.S. Oh by the way the wax of the "not usable" candles went in a box and was given to a Candle Maker, to be melted down, and shaped for something new! But that is another lesson altogether!

Iraq War Vet, Ohio State University Sr, hero, and my brother-in-law still

2008-12-22T11:18:00.003-05:00

Sunday morning I got a text from my sister saying that her husband was in a plane crash in Denver, and for all of us to pray.

Today, my dad sends me this link from Fox News, and of the 30 or so survivors, Fox News is interviewing my brother-in-law! Crazy huh? If you can not see God's provision in that, then excuse me you may be blind.

My Dog

2008-12-21T23:35:00.005-05:00

My dog Willow, surprised all of us today by bringing home a trophy. You see, she is a tricky little dog...We let her out back in our fenced in backyard, but she always finds a new way to get out, just so she can sit out in the front yard and pester the cats. Lately though, she leaves our front yard and ventures out into the unknown forest-one!

Today, after sneaking out of the backyard, she followed her nose to a nice deer dinner, and brought a trophy to the front door, with the biggest smile a German Shepherd can have.

And like a proud father, I am posting it on the web for all to see the accomplishments of my highly edumacated shepherd! She rocks....sure beats that cat she killed a few months back!
Smile for the camera Willow Girl!

2008-12-17T11:59:00.002-05:00

Last weekend, my Pastor, my mentor, my Leader, my friend, and my golf buddy, announced to his staff and then to the congregation at New Hope (www.newhopewired.tv)
that he and his family after many tears, prayers, and wrestling with God, would be leaving what he originally thought was his mission (to reach, teach, this community and beyond to become passionate followers of Christ, in the small town he grew up in). Check out his comments here answering the call of obedience. But God has bigger plans.
Jeremiah 29:11 states: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Do you believe this? Can you stand firm on this and move your family from the security that God and you have built where you are? Would you be willing to step out in faith and pick up your tent like Abraham and go until the Lord says you have arrived to your new destination?

Praise God, that he is never done with us! He has plans for all of us beyond anything that we can comprehend. New Hope will be okay because what was established in in L-Ville, Wooster, Ashland, and our China campus, was a Kingdom focus, not a Charles focus. And Charles and his family will be okay, because they are leaning on the everlasting arms of our Father in heaven. So join with me and Praise God for a pastor who is being obedient to the call of God on his life. May his life be an example to our own. God Bless you Charles and your awesome family, and if God calls me to follow on with you, know that I am determined to be obedient as well! Love ya man!

Yesterday we give thanks....today we are inconsiderate jerks

2008-11-28T17:29:00.007-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQQsTyb7FLs

I am blown away by this video (A Wal-Mart worker after being trampled to death, with paramedics trying to resuscitate him), actually it makes me sick. Why on earth do people act like this for treasures on earth. The bible says in Matthew 6:19,

"Don't hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust or—worse!—stolen by burglars. Stockpile treasure in heaven, where it's safe from moth and rust and burglars. It's obvious, isn't it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being (The Message)

This poor gentleman's family went from being thankful one day to traumatized the next, all because of the insanity for the next best sale and the attitude of "I don't care who I hurt, injure, rob from, as long as I get what I want."

Giving Thanks

2008-11-27T11:47:00.005-05:00

I know that those who are unbelievers still have many things to be thankful for, but hear me out. For those who have been saved from eternal damnation are eternally thankful. In fact, I think that we as a Body of Believers should lead the way in showing our thanks for all that has been done for us.

Things I am thankful for:
- A sinner condemned to die a sinners death, saved by the Grace and Mercy of a Risen Savior!
- A wonderful wife, which God said she's the one, then I ran from that, but in His awesome plan reunited us as One Flesh!
- Two amazing boys, that daily challenge and bless me to no end! Its incredible how much love one body can withstand!
- An awesome church family (www.newhopewired.tv), and the opportunity to serve my Lord, so others can come to the knowledge of the saving Grace of Christ!
- To live in a country that allows all faiths to live together.
- The privilege to serve this great country in the current and past incentives. (www.airforce.com) and (www.goang.com)
- A chance to further my education at a great school (www.ohiochristian.edu)
- The chance to express opinions on a forum such as this...

and many more I am sure!

Happy Thanksgiving to all! Remember to give praise and THANKSGIVING in all things, such a small thing that pleases God so much.

Leave your comment on what you are thankful for!

Happy 90 Grandpa

2008-11-16T13:04:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, a lot of family and friends celebrated my grandfathers 90th birthday. A pretty cool milestone if you ask me. He has lived a great life. He has the love of his first and only bride, he has many grandchildren and great grandchildren, He has served this great country, and has provided for many.

Grandpa, thank you for many memories, I pray we can share many more together.

Blogger virgin

2008-11-14T13:58:00.005-05:00

Ok everybody, I am not 40 yet, but I have heard enough about this blogger thing, so I have decided to give it a try. For all you experienced bloggers, you will need to bare with me. I will eventually get the hang of it.

Hopefully this can be a place for people to come and read and comment with thoughts that will benefit the group. I know we will not agree always, but we can be respectful to everyone's opinion.