Have you ever rolled your window down and said "Hi!" to one of our great parking team volunteers? They do such a great job of getting us in and out safely for all three services. They are out there rain or shine, cold or hot, snow or sleet. Next time the weather is fowl.....give them a little "Thank-You!"
Speaking of parking.....our attendance is up and growing again. Moreover, summer is over and families are all here at once. I need to ask everyone who is a regular attendee at CSF to NOT park in the guest parking front area. Please park in the back lots or around on the side lots. This helps our parking team direct guest to the up-front parking spots and then they can walk in the front doors and be greeted and given inside directions.
This past Sunday our lot was slam full during the second service. If you are attending the second service.....we really need you to not park in the front row. On that note, if you attend our growing noon service, you can park where ever you want!
See you Sunday!
Today's Bible Reading Revelation Chapter 3
As you read these verses one thing is clear. God is always watching how we live our lives and He has the power to test and know our motives. God is not impressed with flowery spiritual words that come out of our mouths but do not match our hearts real motives. God also says in verses 14-16 that he wants us to be either Hot or Cold. Some have taught that this means that God wants you to be either for Him completely or against Him completely. That He does not want you to be devoted sometimes and not on other times.
That is not what this verse means. The verse is simple. He wants you to be useful. Hot water has specific use and cold water has specific use. In general creative teaching terms...water that is only lukewarm really has no specific use. God would never say he wants you to be all bad instead of just bad once in a while...that is silly. He is saying that as a member of a local church and as a Christian in the local community....have a use and do something of value for God and His Kingdom.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Last Night Was AWESOME
Last night was a great night. We celebrated with 45 people who entered the Baptismal waters, personally shared their story of salvation and then were baptized. Each one identified themselves with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus. We were able to celebrate with kids, teenagers, singles in their twenties, young couples, and those who are "older."
Last night was even more special because we were joined by Champion Christian Center (currently meeting at South Meck High)! Over 500 people from two different churches came together to worship and celebrate baptism. We were all together...Black, White, Latino, Hispanic and other ethnicities were here! Rich, poor, and middle class. Students, teachers, professionals and blue color were all here. My guess is we even had a few Democrats who came instead of watching the DNC! HA HA
It was a great night!
Many of you asked if we would be doing other things with Champion Christian Center. The answer is yes......we will be doing many other things with them as we continue to Team up with other churches and organizations in our area. Moreover, we are Teaming up with them every Friday as we host the Butler Football Team here for a pre-game meal and devotion time. Both churches are pitching in to help each week.
Last thing about last night....Pastor Lemay wanted me to make sure I shared with you all how much they were blessed and felt welcomed! Great job CSF!
Today's Bible Reading Revelation chapter 2
I love what he says to the church in Ephesus. He takes a few sentences to tell them about all the great things they are doing. Then he says....I do have one issue with you. You are doing all these great things, but, you have left your first love. Meaning, they were doing good things but had forgotten to stay intimately connected to God. They were doing good things but had fallen out of personal devotion with Christ.
It is like being married for a few years and doing all the things you are suppose to do as a spouse....but you wake up one day and the emotional love devotion and connection to your spouse is cold and hum-drum.
When this happens in marriage or in our relationship with Christ....it can be devastating. What is the cure? John tells us very clearly:
1) Recognize the challenge you currently face and be honest about it.
2) Repent....tell God or your spouse you are sorry!
3) Revamp...go back and do the things you use to do when your relationship was new, fresh and vibrant.
Last night was even more special because we were joined by Champion Christian Center (currently meeting at South Meck High)! Over 500 people from two different churches came together to worship and celebrate baptism. We were all together...Black, White, Latino, Hispanic and other ethnicities were here! Rich, poor, and middle class. Students, teachers, professionals and blue color were all here. My guess is we even had a few Democrats who came instead of watching the DNC! HA HA
It was a great night!
Many of you asked if we would be doing other things with Champion Christian Center. The answer is yes......we will be doing many other things with them as we continue to Team up with other churches and organizations in our area. Moreover, we are Teaming up with them every Friday as we host the Butler Football Team here for a pre-game meal and devotion time. Both churches are pitching in to help each week.
Last thing about last night....Pastor Lemay wanted me to make sure I shared with you all how much they were blessed and felt welcomed! Great job CSF!
Today's Bible Reading Revelation chapter 2
I love what he says to the church in Ephesus. He takes a few sentences to tell them about all the great things they are doing. Then he says....I do have one issue with you. You are doing all these great things, but, you have left your first love. Meaning, they were doing good things but had forgotten to stay intimately connected to God. They were doing good things but had fallen out of personal devotion with Christ.
It is like being married for a few years and doing all the things you are suppose to do as a spouse....but you wake up one day and the emotional love devotion and connection to your spouse is cold and hum-drum.
When this happens in marriage or in our relationship with Christ....it can be devastating. What is the cure? John tells us very clearly:
1) Recognize the challenge you currently face and be honest about it.
2) Repent....tell God or your spouse you are sorry!
3) Revamp...go back and do the things you use to do when your relationship was new, fresh and vibrant.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Who is responsible?
Man....have we received some rain or what? We need it and I am glad God is allowing us to have it in great amounts over the last few days! They are predicting that we will get some more on and off again today and tonight. Let me encourage you to not let the weather keep you from attending tonight's worship and baptism celebration. We will have a wonderful night of joint worship with Champion Christian Center and then over 40 people will "represent" their faith in Jesus Christ through baptism.
The best thing I love about our baptism services is hearing the personal stories of those being baptized. The true stories of life change and new direction. Do you know who is responsible for those life changes? The easy and one correct answer is "GOD.." However, their is another very true answer....who is responsible?
1) The parking lot guy who stood in the heat this summer and helped people get in and out of the parking lot in a timely manner.
2) The host team member who opened the door and with a smile showed a new person who was lost where to find what they need at here.
3) The cafe' person who made the coffee that helped someone feel at ease in a new place.
4) The nursery and kid's ministry volunteer that wiped a dirty bottom, rocked a sleeping baby or colored a page so that a parent could listen to a message.
5) The student ministry leader who reached a teenager.
6) The clean or green team member who served when no one was here to make our building look great and be ready for the services.
7) The band, tech or stage person who served so that a service would be vital, practical, meaningful, inspirational and life changing.
8) The volunteers who came in and folded handouts and cut and then stuffed the handouts with info.
9) The Home Team leader who helped to teach and care for he person.
10) The person who gives a tithe of their income so we actually have ministry money to reach out to people and care for them.
11) The volunteers who serve in our sports, public school ministry and other outreach areas.
The list could go on but I think you get the point......if you serve and give of your time, gifts and resources....you had a BIG part in the changed lives that will be celebrated tonight! GREAT JOB!
Today's Bible Reading Revelation Chapter 1
Here we go....the book that people run from and have a hard time understanding. In short, the book of Revelation is just that. While on the Island of Patmos John received a very clear vision from God of things that God wanted him to write down and tell 7 different churches that John was familiar with and had a hand in starting and leading in some way. As we read through the chapters we will be able to learn some very things for us to know as a local church.
In this chapter John describes the look of the One who gave him the information to write down and share. It is God and He is appearing to John. He calls himself the Alpha (meaning I have always been here) and the Omega ( I will always be here). Their has never been a time that God was not here and their will never be a time when he stops being here. He is the all powerful God!
The best thing I love about our baptism services is hearing the personal stories of those being baptized. The true stories of life change and new direction. Do you know who is responsible for those life changes? The easy and one correct answer is "GOD.." However, their is another very true answer....who is responsible?
1) The parking lot guy who stood in the heat this summer and helped people get in and out of the parking lot in a timely manner.
2) The host team member who opened the door and with a smile showed a new person who was lost where to find what they need at here.
3) The cafe' person who made the coffee that helped someone feel at ease in a new place.
4) The nursery and kid's ministry volunteer that wiped a dirty bottom, rocked a sleeping baby or colored a page so that a parent could listen to a message.
5) The student ministry leader who reached a teenager.
6) The clean or green team member who served when no one was here to make our building look great and be ready for the services.
7) The band, tech or stage person who served so that a service would be vital, practical, meaningful, inspirational and life changing.
8) The volunteers who came in and folded handouts and cut and then stuffed the handouts with info.
9) The Home Team leader who helped to teach and care for he person.
10) The person who gives a tithe of their income so we actually have ministry money to reach out to people and care for them.
11) The volunteers who serve in our sports, public school ministry and other outreach areas.
The list could go on but I think you get the point......if you serve and give of your time, gifts and resources....you had a BIG part in the changed lives that will be celebrated tonight! GREAT JOB!
Today's Bible Reading Revelation Chapter 1
Here we go....the book that people run from and have a hard time understanding. In short, the book of Revelation is just that. While on the Island of Patmos John received a very clear vision from God of things that God wanted him to write down and tell 7 different churches that John was familiar with and had a hand in starting and leading in some way. As we read through the chapters we will be able to learn some very things for us to know as a local church.
In this chapter John describes the look of the One who gave him the information to write down and share. It is God and He is appearing to John. He calls himself the Alpha (meaning I have always been here) and the Omega ( I will always be here). Their has never been a time that God was not here and their will never be a time when he stops being here. He is the all powerful God!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
A New Campus For Us???
As many of you know, last year at this time I gave a clear vision talk for the dream we have of opening another campus in another area. I shared that we would move toward the goal of being one church with many campuses in many different areas.
Yesterday afternoon Rick Faulkner (Executive Pastor) and I traveled to meet with a potential campus pastor and a core group of people about starting a campus in their area. The discussions went very well! I think God may be in this and we are pursuing it with prayer and diligence.
As I shared a few weeks ago to over 100 people at our Leadership Retreat, our goal and philosophy is to have one functioning church and to have our values and DNA planted in other areas. Also, after much prayer and research, we have decided against having a "video-pastor/teacher" piped in for the Sunday services for people to watch. Instead we feel like it is best for us to bring a pastor/teacher on to actually be the teacher and area leader for each campus. This will allow the services to be culturally relevant to the specific area where we have started a new campus. Moreover, we feel this will allow the Sunday morning worship and teaching to be matched up perfectly with the specific area. The culture of Suburban Charlotte is very different than areas that are only 45 - 60 minutes away. Also, we believe that a local pastor/teacher can speak to the issues in the area that may arise there that we in Matthews area are not dealing with. For us, we believe our value of impacting a city in many different ways other than just a Sunday service means we need to have a visible and live teacher/leader in place in that area.
Anyway, we think God has led us to a Pastor/Teacher for a specific area that wants to be a part of the team Church philosophy we have for impacting a city. I can't tell you who and where just yet.....but be praying as this is exciting stuff! We are hoping to launch this new campus at the first of the year.
Don't forget our joint worship and Baptism service tomorrow night! 6:30
Today's Bible Reading 3 John (another day...another whole book!)
John is a leader for the Church and has been given overall leadership for many of the local churches in the area. He continues to write "letters" to the on-site pastor/teachers of each area "church" giving them instruction and encouragement. He knows that he can not be there in person for the day to day ministry and teaching of the church and that they are responsible for their local area. However, he is responsible for the overall vision, values and direction of each local area church. In this role he once again gives them great advice......their are people who love to be first and who only want to do what is best for them personally. They are the people who gossip about others and are team players for the greater good.
In today's lingo....John was saying that Diotrephes is not a team player as he is only worried about what is good for him. Remember....their is no "I" in Team. Church is a team sport and we are playing in the most important game of all. The game of life!
Yesterday afternoon Rick Faulkner (Executive Pastor) and I traveled to meet with a potential campus pastor and a core group of people about starting a campus in their area. The discussions went very well! I think God may be in this and we are pursuing it with prayer and diligence.
As I shared a few weeks ago to over 100 people at our Leadership Retreat, our goal and philosophy is to have one functioning church and to have our values and DNA planted in other areas. Also, after much prayer and research, we have decided against having a "video-pastor/teacher" piped in for the Sunday services for people to watch. Instead we feel like it is best for us to bring a pastor/teacher on to actually be the teacher and area leader for each campus. This will allow the services to be culturally relevant to the specific area where we have started a new campus. Moreover, we feel this will allow the Sunday morning worship and teaching to be matched up perfectly with the specific area. The culture of Suburban Charlotte is very different than areas that are only 45 - 60 minutes away. Also, we believe that a local pastor/teacher can speak to the issues in the area that may arise there that we in Matthews area are not dealing with. For us, we believe our value of impacting a city in many different ways other than just a Sunday service means we need to have a visible and live teacher/leader in place in that area.
Anyway, we think God has led us to a Pastor/Teacher for a specific area that wants to be a part of the team Church philosophy we have for impacting a city. I can't tell you who and where just yet.....but be praying as this is exciting stuff! We are hoping to launch this new campus at the first of the year.
Don't forget our joint worship and Baptism service tomorrow night! 6:30
Today's Bible Reading 3 John (another day...another whole book!)
John is a leader for the Church and has been given overall leadership for many of the local churches in the area. He continues to write "letters" to the on-site pastor/teachers of each area "church" giving them instruction and encouragement. He knows that he can not be there in person for the day to day ministry and teaching of the church and that they are responsible for their local area. However, he is responsible for the overall vision, values and direction of each local area church. In this role he once again gives them great advice......their are people who love to be first and who only want to do what is best for them personally. They are the people who gossip about others and are team players for the greater good.
In today's lingo....John was saying that Diotrephes is not a team player as he is only worried about what is good for him. Remember....their is no "I" in Team. Church is a team sport and we are playing in the most important game of all. The game of life!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Killed.....Crossing The Road
On my way to the office this morning.....I ran over a squirrel. A car was coming at me in the other direction and about 20 yards before our two cars would pass a squirrel runs out in front of the other car on his side of the road. The squirrel did that back and forth jaunt in front of that car and then right as I was thinking..."Go back to side where you came from"....the squirrel darted across the lane into my lane. Thud! The little guy was struck by my rear tire on the right side. That means he almost made it. However, in this case, almost does not count. He is dead. He will not make his breakfast appointment and he will not see his little squirrel family today.
As soon as I hit the squirrel, I thought...."What a bad way to start and finish the day." My next thought was...."how many people today are starting the day out bad?" How many people will very soon have decisions to make that could be the difference between sadness and happiness. How many people today will get a call or email telling them of a loved one that has been in a accident, learned they were very sick or lost their job.
We never know what they day will bring. However, as I challenged us again yesterday, we can start each day off or end each day with reading God's love letter to us. We can read His Bible every day and allow Him to speak through His Word to our hearts. I don't know how many people have told me that they took the challenge in January and have been reading the Bible all year and it has been such a wonderful experience. Many have told me that they will encounter or experience something during the day and that very "thing" would have been addressed in their reading that week at sometime. They knew the truth of God's Word and it gave them hope, insight, wisdom, patience and whatever else they may have needed.
Are you reading your Bible and Praying? As I said yesterday....it is a simple "first obedience" thing that all of us can do. We have reading guides available for free in the atrium area and many of us are reading along together.....why don't you join the fun?
Today's Bible Reading 2 John
(how many times can you read one chapter and claim you read a whole book!)
John tells us a few specific things in this little book:
1) That real Love to God is that you walk in Obedience to God's command.
(see yesterday's message)
2)If someone teaches that Jesus Christ was not God in the flesh...they are deceivers and are anti-Christ.
3) Pastors/leaders who do not teach that Jesus Christ is the only way of salvation...are not worthy to be heard or given time.
I love it when the Bible is clear!
As soon as I hit the squirrel, I thought...."What a bad way to start and finish the day." My next thought was...."how many people today are starting the day out bad?" How many people will very soon have decisions to make that could be the difference between sadness and happiness. How many people today will get a call or email telling them of a loved one that has been in a accident, learned they were very sick or lost their job.
We never know what they day will bring. However, as I challenged us again yesterday, we can start each day off or end each day with reading God's love letter to us. We can read His Bible every day and allow Him to speak through His Word to our hearts. I don't know how many people have told me that they took the challenge in January and have been reading the Bible all year and it has been such a wonderful experience. Many have told me that they will encounter or experience something during the day and that very "thing" would have been addressed in their reading that week at sometime. They knew the truth of God's Word and it gave them hope, insight, wisdom, patience and whatever else they may have needed.
Are you reading your Bible and Praying? As I said yesterday....it is a simple "first obedience" thing that all of us can do. We have reading guides available for free in the atrium area and many of us are reading along together.....why don't you join the fun?
Today's Bible Reading 2 John
(how many times can you read one chapter and claim you read a whole book!)
John tells us a few specific things in this little book:
1) That real Love to God is that you walk in Obedience to God's command.
(see yesterday's message)
2)If someone teaches that Jesus Christ was not God in the flesh...they are deceivers and are anti-Christ.
3) Pastors/leaders who do not teach that Jesus Christ is the only way of salvation...are not worthy to be heard or given time.
I love it when the Bible is clear!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Teaming Up With Others In Our City
Our band is gearing up for a great night of worship with Champion Christian Center next Wednesday night. We have been looking forward to this all summer! Two churches Teaming up to have one huge baptism. We will blend the two styles of worship for a memorable night. Champion Christian Center is a predominately African American church that meets at South Meck High. (we use to meet there 7 years ago!) I love the fact that we can Team up with this great church for this event and also for our pre-game meals we are providing for Butler High School all year long. Reaching a city for Christ takes many churches and organizations Teaming up for the common good and not each church doing their own deal.
I received a letter today from the leader of CharlotteOne. This is a weekly ministry based in Uptown that focuses on reaching and teaching young singles in our city. He was thinking us for our constant financial support so that they can continue to make an impact on the growing singles population in our city! Always remember that no matter how large we get as a local church....our purpose and mission is to always Team up with others who we believe have a like minded purpose in our city and world.
Speaking of Teaming up.....if you are going to the Panther VS Washington game this Saturday night....wave at me! I have the privilege of saying the opening prayer right before the National Anthem. I am sure that in a crowd of 70,000 I will be able to see you and wave back! I have done this before and it is a great time as me and Peyton get to hang out with the players and coaches in the locker room area and on the field for pre-game warm-ups.
Today's Bible Reading 1John Chapter 3
What is the love of Christ? In verse 18 says it is ACTION! Jesus loved us so much he took ACTION and went to the cross. These verses say that when we have the love of Christ flowing through us we will DO the right and avoid the wrong. Moreover, it says if we see that their is hurt and pain in the world....we should ACT. When we see a fellow Christian who is lacking for basic needs....we should ACT. Verse 18 says.."Don't love in just words...but through ACTION!"
People ask me all the time....what kind of church are you? One statement I always make is that we are a church in ACTION. We "DO" things to help people see Christ. We Team up with our community to change our world!
This past week we once again ACTED by filling a truck up of food, bathroom/hygiene stuff and baby needs. We filed the Matthews Help Center shelves once again! Great job
I received a letter today from the leader of CharlotteOne. This is a weekly ministry based in Uptown that focuses on reaching and teaching young singles in our city. He was thinking us for our constant financial support so that they can continue to make an impact on the growing singles population in our city! Always remember that no matter how large we get as a local church....our purpose and mission is to always Team up with others who we believe have a like minded purpose in our city and world.
Speaking of Teaming up.....if you are going to the Panther VS Washington game this Saturday night....wave at me! I have the privilege of saying the opening prayer right before the National Anthem. I am sure that in a crowd of 70,000 I will be able to see you and wave back! I have done this before and it is a great time as me and Peyton get to hang out with the players and coaches in the locker room area and on the field for pre-game warm-ups.
Today's Bible Reading 1John Chapter 3
What is the love of Christ? In verse 18 says it is ACTION! Jesus loved us so much he took ACTION and went to the cross. These verses say that when we have the love of Christ flowing through us we will DO the right and avoid the wrong. Moreover, it says if we see that their is hurt and pain in the world....we should ACT. When we see a fellow Christian who is lacking for basic needs....we should ACT. Verse 18 says.."Don't love in just words...but through ACTION!"
People ask me all the time....what kind of church are you? One statement I always make is that we are a church in ACTION. We "DO" things to help people see Christ. We Team up with our community to change our world!
This past week we once again ACTED by filling a truck up of food, bathroom/hygiene stuff and baby needs. We filed the Matthews Help Center shelves once again! Great job
Thursday, August 21, 2008
First Day Of School
My entry today is a little later in the morning. Today was my kid's first day back to school. Per our routine that we have done since Peyton was in 3rd grade....I had a 6:45 breakfast "meeting" with him. We do this most every Thursday morning while he is in school. Good time to chat and discuss what is happening in his life. Today, when we arrived at the school I parked and was starting to walk with him into school. Peyton said..."dad, what are you doing? I am in 5th grade, you did not walk me in when I was in 1st grade?"
I told him I was not walking in for him.....but for Ellie who starts her first day at Queens Grant. We were blessed that Queens Grant has a special class for special kids like Ellie. The home where she lives has agreed to bring her and pick her up so that she can attend the same school as Peyton. This is great for us as it will allow us to see Ellie even more and of course Peyton will see her every day!
Thanks so much to our church family that has prayed for our family in the transition time of us needing to place Ellie in a new home where she can get 24/7 special care. We are blessed beyond measure with how God has allowed Ellie to get into all the special places she needs to thrive.
Many schools started this week. All will have started by next week. As school starts I wanted to encourage parents to take advantage of the great new ministry schedule we have for your kids.
TeamKid will be on Wednesday nights in the up stairs kids auditorium area at 6:30 for 1st -5th grade. This will be a high energy fun time of learning the truths about God from the Bible that they can apply to their everyday life. It will be a time that your kids wont want to miss!
The Pursuit will also be on Wednesday nights in the main auditorium at 6:30. This will be a great time for 6th - 12th graders to hang out with friends in our cafe and atrium area! Then enjoy a great time with our live High School band in worship, teaching and fun in the main auditorium. (Our High School band is awesome!) This will be a needed mid-week experience that your teenager will not want to miss! The pressures to teenagers is high....you need to get them here so they can have a place of encouragement to live godly lives.
School is in......lets get ready for a great new ministry year with our kids!
Today's Bible Reading 1 John Chapter 2
What does the Bible mean when it says "do not love the world?" Well, we know that it does not mean we should not love the people in the world. We know that the Bible is not against "Going Green" to preserve the beauty of nature. We know that it does not mean we should go live in a cabin in the woods and become a hermit for Jesus. So....what does it mean?
It means that we should not adore and embrace the values set by people that go against God's values. John defines it for us in verse 16. (The cravings of sinful man, lust of the eyes, boasting of accomplishments) All these things are not eternal and have no real value. We are to Love the values of Jesus. Not everything is bad, but when it takes precedence over God's values and commands...it is wrong. Here are some practical questions....not an exhaustive list, but one to get you thinking:
Do you love golf so much that you miss church and spending personal time with God?
Do you love sexual lust so much that you wont get an Internet filter?
Do you love "Stuff" so much that you don't set aside a monthly tithe to give back to God?
DO you love climbing the ladder and the accolades that come with it so much....that you don't serve in the local church?
Do you love personal success so much that you hardly see your spouse & kids and are just hoping things don't crumble at home!
I know those are "hard" questions...but that is what John was talking about.
I told him I was not walking in for him.....but for Ellie who starts her first day at Queens Grant. We were blessed that Queens Grant has a special class for special kids like Ellie. The home where she lives has agreed to bring her and pick her up so that she can attend the same school as Peyton. This is great for us as it will allow us to see Ellie even more and of course Peyton will see her every day!
Thanks so much to our church family that has prayed for our family in the transition time of us needing to place Ellie in a new home where she can get 24/7 special care. We are blessed beyond measure with how God has allowed Ellie to get into all the special places she needs to thrive.
Many schools started this week. All will have started by next week. As school starts I wanted to encourage parents to take advantage of the great new ministry schedule we have for your kids.
TeamKid will be on Wednesday nights in the up stairs kids auditorium area at 6:30 for 1st -5th grade. This will be a high energy fun time of learning the truths about God from the Bible that they can apply to their everyday life. It will be a time that your kids wont want to miss!
The Pursuit will also be on Wednesday nights in the main auditorium at 6:30. This will be a great time for 6th - 12th graders to hang out with friends in our cafe and atrium area! Then enjoy a great time with our live High School band in worship, teaching and fun in the main auditorium. (Our High School band is awesome!) This will be a needed mid-week experience that your teenager will not want to miss! The pressures to teenagers is high....you need to get them here so they can have a place of encouragement to live godly lives.
School is in......lets get ready for a great new ministry year with our kids!
Today's Bible Reading 1 John Chapter 2
What does the Bible mean when it says "do not love the world?" Well, we know that it does not mean we should not love the people in the world. We know that the Bible is not against "Going Green" to preserve the beauty of nature. We know that it does not mean we should go live in a cabin in the woods and become a hermit for Jesus. So....what does it mean?
It means that we should not adore and embrace the values set by people that go against God's values. John defines it for us in verse 16. (The cravings of sinful man, lust of the eyes, boasting of accomplishments) All these things are not eternal and have no real value. We are to Love the values of Jesus. Not everything is bad, but when it takes precedence over God's values and commands...it is wrong. Here are some practical questions....not an exhaustive list, but one to get you thinking:
Do you love golf so much that you miss church and spending personal time with God?
Do you love sexual lust so much that you wont get an Internet filter?
Do you love "Stuff" so much that you don't set aside a monthly tithe to give back to God?
DO you love climbing the ladder and the accolades that come with it so much....that you don't serve in the local church?
Do you love personal success so much that you hardly see your spouse & kids and are just hoping things don't crumble at home!
I know those are "hard" questions...but that is what John was talking about.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Wacky Wednesday
In an hour our church campus will come alive with the sounds of laughing kids and chatty moms. Today is Wacky Wednesday at CSF! If you forgot......round up your kids 1st - 5th grade and join us here from 9-noon. We have moved all the chairs out of the auditorium and set up a huge indoor bounce/slide. (like the ones at Mokey Joes) We have a Big Wheel track inside, tones of toys, crafts and all kinds of other fun stuff for toddlers.
Upstairs our 1st - 5th grade have video games and other things to do before they watch a movie on the big screen and eat some popcorn. This is the last of three Wacky Wednesdays for the summer. A great time to have fun in the comfort of the AC!
I love the fact that so many mom's of toddlers come and get to talk and connect relationally while their kids are playing. Also, the parents of the older kids can just drop them off and get some last minute school shopping done! The best part is that our kids get to have fun in a place where God is honored and not boring. Moreover, kids and parents get to invite their friends to a place that cares for their kids, is safe and is really fun.
This is a huge value in our kids ministry. Fun, clean and safe while learning and growing in Christ!
As you are waking up.....invite a friend and we will see you here!
Today's Bible Reading: 1 John Chapter 1
John is clear here.....if you claim to be a Christ follower and walk in the light, then you must reject a life that is filled with darkness. It is a miserable life to be a Christian but live a life that does not honor God. John is not talking about a "slip up" here or there. He is talking about choosing a lifestyle that we know is wrong. Setting our selves up for failure.
John is also clear in verse 9....that no matter what we have done....grace and forgiveness is only a true confession away. We should not abuse this grace....but because of it have a desire to please our God who loves us so much!
Upstairs our 1st - 5th grade have video games and other things to do before they watch a movie on the big screen and eat some popcorn. This is the last of three Wacky Wednesdays for the summer. A great time to have fun in the comfort of the AC!
I love the fact that so many mom's of toddlers come and get to talk and connect relationally while their kids are playing. Also, the parents of the older kids can just drop them off and get some last minute school shopping done! The best part is that our kids get to have fun in a place where God is honored and not boring. Moreover, kids and parents get to invite their friends to a place that cares for their kids, is safe and is really fun.
This is a huge value in our kids ministry. Fun, clean and safe while learning and growing in Christ!
As you are waking up.....invite a friend and we will see you here!
Today's Bible Reading: 1 John Chapter 1
John is clear here.....if you claim to be a Christ follower and walk in the light, then you must reject a life that is filled with darkness. It is a miserable life to be a Christian but live a life that does not honor God. John is not talking about a "slip up" here or there. He is talking about choosing a lifestyle that we know is wrong. Setting our selves up for failure.
John is also clear in verse 9....that no matter what we have done....grace and forgiveness is only a true confession away. We should not abuse this grace....but because of it have a desire to please our God who loves us so much!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Serving Our Public Schools
I love the fact that our church is involved in public schools. In many different ways we have many volunteers that serve our schools. A very creative way that we are once again serving two high schools that are close in proximity to us....is through serving pre-game meals to the varsity football teams at Porter Ridge and Butler High school.
Through these pre-game meals we are able to build good relationship with the students and even get to share with them in a devotion before the game.
This year we are taking on a huge task. We are hosting Butler High School here on our campus for every game....yep, 10 straight weeks. How great is that? Every Friday afternoon the Butler team and coaches will arrive here to eat, relax and be encouraged. Also, this year we will be doing 4 meals on site at Porter Ridge High in their cafeteria.
That is over 100 high school boys that can be impacted over the course of the season by our church volunteers. That is awesome. If you would like to help serve in this ministry to our schools....we wold love to have you help. You can pick one or two Fridays or help as much as you can. Here is what we need:
1) We need people to help cook the food and then bring it to the church.
2) We need people to help serve the boys and then clean up.
That is it! Cooking and serving the food.....and the difference in these boys life can be eternal. Eternal???? You may scoff....yes, eternal. I have been working with high school boys in football for 20 years and have seen many come to Christ at a devotion time or because they built a trusting relationship with us they felt comfortable talking about issues in their life.
Also, remember we do this not to get those boys to come to our church but to simply serve our schools and help in any way we can the coaches and teachers impact these kids in a positive way.
If you would like to serve in this ministry email Chris@charlottesouth.org
Today's Bible Reading John 21
This is a great scene. Peter had denied Jesus and now the risen Lord has made him breakfast on the beach. What a picture of Grace! Moreover, Jesus then asked Peter about his love and commitment to Him? Jesus reminded Peter that if you really love me...then you will serve others and help lead them to me. Jesus wanted complete loyalty out of Peter to follow Him alone.
Are you committed to Jesus Christ and love Him? Then Jesus would say the same thing to you....take care, feed and lead my sheep (people). Serve people and help them see the love of God through you as you put your faith in action! You cannot fully love Jesus and sit on the sidelines and do nothing but warm a seat on Sunday. The call of Christ is one of ACTION! Do you serve anywhere at CSF?
........Pre-game meal team is looking for some people of Action!
Through these pre-game meals we are able to build good relationship with the students and even get to share with them in a devotion before the game.
This year we are taking on a huge task. We are hosting Butler High School here on our campus for every game....yep, 10 straight weeks. How great is that? Every Friday afternoon the Butler team and coaches will arrive here to eat, relax and be encouraged. Also, this year we will be doing 4 meals on site at Porter Ridge High in their cafeteria.
That is over 100 high school boys that can be impacted over the course of the season by our church volunteers. That is awesome. If you would like to help serve in this ministry to our schools....we wold love to have you help. You can pick one or two Fridays or help as much as you can. Here is what we need:
1) We need people to help cook the food and then bring it to the church.
2) We need people to help serve the boys and then clean up.
That is it! Cooking and serving the food.....and the difference in these boys life can be eternal. Eternal???? You may scoff....yes, eternal. I have been working with high school boys in football for 20 years and have seen many come to Christ at a devotion time or because they built a trusting relationship with us they felt comfortable talking about issues in their life.
Also, remember we do this not to get those boys to come to our church but to simply serve our schools and help in any way we can the coaches and teachers impact these kids in a positive way.
If you would like to serve in this ministry email Chris@charlottesouth.org
Today's Bible Reading John 21
This is a great scene. Peter had denied Jesus and now the risen Lord has made him breakfast on the beach. What a picture of Grace! Moreover, Jesus then asked Peter about his love and commitment to Him? Jesus reminded Peter that if you really love me...then you will serve others and help lead them to me. Jesus wanted complete loyalty out of Peter to follow Him alone.
Are you committed to Jesus Christ and love Him? Then Jesus would say the same thing to you....take care, feed and lead my sheep (people). Serve people and help them see the love of God through you as you put your faith in action! You cannot fully love Jesus and sit on the sidelines and do nothing but warm a seat on Sunday. The call of Christ is one of ACTION! Do you serve anywhere at CSF?
........Pre-game meal team is looking for some people of Action!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Behind The Music 2008 was great
I personally was not here for Behind The Music 2008....but the report from our staff and some people I talked with is that it was awesome! Great job KC and the Band!
I heard that many new people were here again on Sunday and that the concert was helpful for them to know why it is that we do certain styles of songs and why we even sometimes use non-church songs in our Encounter Services. I also love the creative elements we are adding to help each person have a reflection and response time to the message and worship they have experienced. Over the next few months you will really enjoy having that element in our worship experience. Moreover, those who are new to church and the whole worship experience can observe, experience and partake at their own comfort level and moreover in a way that fits their personality and style. Remember, not everyone wants to respond the way that you do!
I also noticed upon my arrival that our atrium area had a huge pile of supplies and food for the Matthews Help Center! Great job!
I will close today telling you that my 20 reunion was like a scene from the twilight zone. People I had not seen or even communicated with since graduation night walked into the meet & greet area and I had a hard time remembering names. I could recognize most of the faces....but the names were gone. However, slowly over the course of the first night; first and last names started coming easier and by the time the second night ended.....we were talking about things that had happened in high school that I had not thought about in more than 20 years. It was fun. Many of my close friends that I was looking forward to seeing were no-shows. However, I was able to hang with some people that were once apart of my life and have not been since High School. Very strange.....More than once, I got the response: "You are a Pastor?" and like at parties and cookouts now.....some folks decided that hanging with a pastor was not cool and avoided any long conversations. That was a little strange.
What was not strange was the way some people never change.....people were very much like they were in High School!
Today's Bible Reading John 20
The story of "Doubting Thomas" is a well known one to those who have been in church and really those who only know the stories that surround Christmas and Easter. Ever since I was a kid hearing this story....I thought Thomas got a bad rap. The disciples and Mary were not confident that Jesus was going to raise Himself from the dead. They were many times confused and when Jesus was crucified they were really confused and dejected. Mary was so down in her believing that she actually was talking to Jesus after the resurrection and did not recognize Him. (no one ever called her "Blind Mary"...although I think their was a song named that...)
My point is this....I like what Thomas did here. He had given his life to follow Jesus. Jesus was now dead. He would be willing to risk it all and follow with passion once again...but he would have to know for sure that Jesus was a alive. In verse 28 he, with passion, says "My Lord and My God!" once he knows that Jesus was alive and had risen from the dead. Many Christians today are afraid to allow others to investigate the truth of God. Many people themselves don't want to take the time to learn and investigate the claims of Jesus. However, we should never back down from allowing people to do this......because once they truly seek, truly investigate and truly learn. They too will say....You truly are the only way and you are God!
Moreover, I would much rather have a person follow Christ and serve in the church because they really know what they believe. That is a faith that will last and is not based on emotion and "what can God do for me?"
I heard that many new people were here again on Sunday and that the concert was helpful for them to know why it is that we do certain styles of songs and why we even sometimes use non-church songs in our Encounter Services. I also love the creative elements we are adding to help each person have a reflection and response time to the message and worship they have experienced. Over the next few months you will really enjoy having that element in our worship experience. Moreover, those who are new to church and the whole worship experience can observe, experience and partake at their own comfort level and moreover in a way that fits their personality and style. Remember, not everyone wants to respond the way that you do!
I also noticed upon my arrival that our atrium area had a huge pile of supplies and food for the Matthews Help Center! Great job!
I will close today telling you that my 20 reunion was like a scene from the twilight zone. People I had not seen or even communicated with since graduation night walked into the meet & greet area and I had a hard time remembering names. I could recognize most of the faces....but the names were gone. However, slowly over the course of the first night; first and last names started coming easier and by the time the second night ended.....we were talking about things that had happened in high school that I had not thought about in more than 20 years. It was fun. Many of my close friends that I was looking forward to seeing were no-shows. However, I was able to hang with some people that were once apart of my life and have not been since High School. Very strange.....More than once, I got the response: "You are a Pastor?" and like at parties and cookouts now.....some folks decided that hanging with a pastor was not cool and avoided any long conversations. That was a little strange.
What was not strange was the way some people never change.....people were very much like they were in High School!
Today's Bible Reading John 20
The story of "Doubting Thomas" is a well known one to those who have been in church and really those who only know the stories that surround Christmas and Easter. Ever since I was a kid hearing this story....I thought Thomas got a bad rap. The disciples and Mary were not confident that Jesus was going to raise Himself from the dead. They were many times confused and when Jesus was crucified they were really confused and dejected. Mary was so down in her believing that she actually was talking to Jesus after the resurrection and did not recognize Him. (no one ever called her "Blind Mary"...although I think their was a song named that...)
My point is this....I like what Thomas did here. He had given his life to follow Jesus. Jesus was now dead. He would be willing to risk it all and follow with passion once again...but he would have to know for sure that Jesus was a alive. In verse 28 he, with passion, says "My Lord and My God!" once he knows that Jesus was alive and had risen from the dead. Many Christians today are afraid to allow others to investigate the truth of God. Many people themselves don't want to take the time to learn and investigate the claims of Jesus. However, we should never back down from allowing people to do this......because once they truly seek, truly investigate and truly learn. They too will say....You truly are the only way and you are God!
Moreover, I would much rather have a person follow Christ and serve in the church because they really know what they believe. That is a faith that will last and is not based on emotion and "what can God do for me?"
Friday, August 15, 2008
20 year reunion...here we come
Today at 7am we have left for Florida and my 20 year high school reunion. I wonder how many times I will hear the song "Here I go again on my own?" by white snake. That was our class song. I am sure it will be an all 80's music love fest!
Before I leave, I wanted to remind you of two great things coming this Sunday.
1) Behind The Music Concert is this Sunday! It is going to be awesome! Invite a fried that loves great music.
2) We are collecting food and supplies for the Matthews Help Center again this Sunday. It is time to fill their shelves again. In these hard financial times, the need is great for many families.
Bring a friend this Sunday!
Before I leave, I wanted to remind you of two great things coming this Sunday.
1) Behind The Music Concert is this Sunday! It is going to be awesome! Invite a fried that loves great music.
2) We are collecting food and supplies for the Matthews Help Center again this Sunday. It is time to fill their shelves again. In these hard financial times, the need is great for many families.
Bring a friend this Sunday!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
New Staff Roles
We are excited to announce that our All-Star KID Ministry has a new staff Team. After 7 months of pulling double duty, Clint Newton will become our Kids Ministry Pastor. Stacey Sutton will also be increasing her hours as she continues her administrative and leadership role in our Kids Ministry. Together this dynamic duo will give us the best Kids Ministry ever!
Also, we have hired Thom Hibbard (my older brother) as our new Facilities Manager. He will be making sure our new building and campus looks great and more importantly is ready and functional for the many ministry things happening on site. We are thrilled to have him move up from Florida to join us. Thom spent two years in Honduras as a church leader and administrator of a Church and Christian school. He is also a skilled builder, carpenter, plumber, etc. Perfect for the job we need done here!
As we head into the fall these staff additions and changes will help us serve you better and set us up for a HUGE fall. Speaking of HUGE.....this past Sunday in the middle of August we had one of our largest attendance Sundays ever! We have a GREAT few months ahead of us. More than ever we are poised to Team up with public schools, the Matthews Help Center, Public sports and the like. As a matter of fact, here is an email I received after I prayed at the Matthews Chamber Luncheon on Tuesday.
"Hi Kenny,
I wanted to say hi to you after the luncheon since I didn’t get a chance to say hi beforehand but I had to get going as soon as the speaker finished…
Thanks again for all CSF does in the community. Everyone loves you guys! Everyone here at the Matthews HELP Center loves you guys, too!"
Patti Palmer, Executive Director
Matthews HELP Center
Great Job CSF!
Today's Bible Reading John 16
Jesus was being very clear to the Disciples that a time was coming (His crucifixion)that he would be leaving them in a physical sense. However, the Holy Spirit would then come and be with them always. He was also very clear in verse 33 that because they were following Him they would be persecuted and that they would encounter hard times, pain and trouble. However, they were not to get depressed...they were to take heart as they knew that God had overcome the world.
Look at this verse and compare it to the message taught by the TV pastors who promise us that a life devoted to God will make us happy, rich, successful and have the life we always wanted here on this earth. Jesus actually said...because you follow me.....there are hard times and trouble coming. Always remember that Jesus never promised an easy trouble free life if you have enough faith and follow Him. What he promised is that He would be with you in the hard times.
Also, we have hired Thom Hibbard (my older brother) as our new Facilities Manager. He will be making sure our new building and campus looks great and more importantly is ready and functional for the many ministry things happening on site. We are thrilled to have him move up from Florida to join us. Thom spent two years in Honduras as a church leader and administrator of a Church and Christian school. He is also a skilled builder, carpenter, plumber, etc. Perfect for the job we need done here!
As we head into the fall these staff additions and changes will help us serve you better and set us up for a HUGE fall. Speaking of HUGE.....this past Sunday in the middle of August we had one of our largest attendance Sundays ever! We have a GREAT few months ahead of us. More than ever we are poised to Team up with public schools, the Matthews Help Center, Public sports and the like. As a matter of fact, here is an email I received after I prayed at the Matthews Chamber Luncheon on Tuesday.
"Hi Kenny,
I wanted to say hi to you after the luncheon since I didn’t get a chance to say hi beforehand but I had to get going as soon as the speaker finished…
Thanks again for all CSF does in the community. Everyone loves you guys! Everyone here at the Matthews HELP Center loves you guys, too!"
Patti Palmer, Executive Director
Matthews HELP Center
Great Job CSF!
Today's Bible Reading John 16
Jesus was being very clear to the Disciples that a time was coming (His crucifixion)that he would be leaving them in a physical sense. However, the Holy Spirit would then come and be with them always. He was also very clear in verse 33 that because they were following Him they would be persecuted and that they would encounter hard times, pain and trouble. However, they were not to get depressed...they were to take heart as they knew that God had overcome the world.
Look at this verse and compare it to the message taught by the TV pastors who promise us that a life devoted to God will make us happy, rich, successful and have the life we always wanted here on this earth. Jesus actually said...because you follow me.....there are hard times and trouble coming. Always remember that Jesus never promised an easy trouble free life if you have enough faith and follow Him. What he promised is that He would be with you in the hard times.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
You have got to be kidding me??
As many of you know, in my spare time, I am the head football coach of my son's Pop Warner football team. We are excited this year as we are moving up to play in the Jr. Pee Wee age/weight division. Should be a great year!
Last night me and a few of our coaches went to the yearly Pop Warner area meeting for coaches who are coaching this great game. Once again I was shocked and amazed that 75% of the meeting was telling coaches not to be jerks on the sidelines AND not to cheat because as the head Pop Warner guy said...."This year we will catch you!"
They spent the night giving examples from last year:
* Please don't take the pads out of a pair of shoulder pads so that your kids can make weight.
* Please don't cut a pad in half in their pants so that a id can make weight.
* Please do not give your kids ex-lac before the game so that they can make weight.
* Please do not start your worse kid and then 2 plays later have him fake an injury so he does not have to play the rest of the game. (He followed that one up with the fact that the "injured" kid was caught on video tape 10 minutes later playing around behind the stands.
* Please do no try to skip your "must play" players by without playing them.
(We have to have team play monitors on the sideline of the opposing team to "watch" and make sure all the kids play their "must play" requirement.)
* Please do not leave a group of players at home when you know you have a tough game so that you only have to play with the league minimum of 16. We are sure their parents don't like that fact. (this happens every year in the playoffs)
The list of examples was exhaustive and ridiculous. I sat their and thought to myself...how far have we fallen as a culture that grown men act this way so that their Pop Warner team wins. I am as competitive as anyone and I can't imagine that these things actually happen. Must make their egos feel good that their 9-12 year old kids beat someone else......gets them through another tough week at work!
Some of you are thinking...."Kenny, that is why we should start our own Christian leagues so that or kids are not subject to such idiot parents and coaches." My answer to that is...."no this is why we Team up with city leagues and get involved in it's leadership and serve there....so we can be a positive influence on not only the kids but the league themselves."
Many public/city leagues are really run well and they value all the things that we do. I know that at MARA the leadership is always making sure that the quality of sport and competition is high just as the values of sportsmanship and the like.
At our Church we don't run from the culture challenges....we Team up with groups and see if we can help make them great for us and our kids. I am so pleased that we have CSF people involved in so the different sport organizations in near where they live. The goal is to do more and really make a difference in our city!
Today's Bible Reading: John 15
Here Jesus is very clear.....He says, "I am the Vine and you are the branches." If you are truly connected to God and doing what he want you to do....then you are a good branch. However, if we purposely choose to do the opposite of what God says then we are acting alone and will accomplish nothing. We cannot bear positive fruitful lives with out being directly connected to God.
Question: When people look at our lives and the fruit we are producing......what vine(tree) do they think our branches belong to?
Last night me and a few of our coaches went to the yearly Pop Warner area meeting for coaches who are coaching this great game. Once again I was shocked and amazed that 75% of the meeting was telling coaches not to be jerks on the sidelines AND not to cheat because as the head Pop Warner guy said...."This year we will catch you!"
They spent the night giving examples from last year:
* Please don't take the pads out of a pair of shoulder pads so that your kids can make weight.
* Please don't cut a pad in half in their pants so that a id can make weight.
* Please do not give your kids ex-lac before the game so that they can make weight.
* Please do not start your worse kid and then 2 plays later have him fake an injury so he does not have to play the rest of the game. (He followed that one up with the fact that the "injured" kid was caught on video tape 10 minutes later playing around behind the stands.
* Please do no try to skip your "must play" players by without playing them.
(We have to have team play monitors on the sideline of the opposing team to "watch" and make sure all the kids play their "must play" requirement.)
* Please do not leave a group of players at home when you know you have a tough game so that you only have to play with the league minimum of 16. We are sure their parents don't like that fact. (this happens every year in the playoffs)
The list of examples was exhaustive and ridiculous. I sat their and thought to myself...how far have we fallen as a culture that grown men act this way so that their Pop Warner team wins. I am as competitive as anyone and I can't imagine that these things actually happen. Must make their egos feel good that their 9-12 year old kids beat someone else......gets them through another tough week at work!
Some of you are thinking...."Kenny, that is why we should start our own Christian leagues so that or kids are not subject to such idiot parents and coaches." My answer to that is...."no this is why we Team up with city leagues and get involved in it's leadership and serve there....so we can be a positive influence on not only the kids but the league themselves."
Many public/city leagues are really run well and they value all the things that we do. I know that at MARA the leadership is always making sure that the quality of sport and competition is high just as the values of sportsmanship and the like.
At our Church we don't run from the culture challenges....we Team up with groups and see if we can help make them great for us and our kids. I am so pleased that we have CSF people involved in so the different sport organizations in near where they live. The goal is to do more and really make a difference in our city!
Today's Bible Reading: John 15
Here Jesus is very clear.....He says, "I am the Vine and you are the branches." If you are truly connected to God and doing what he want you to do....then you are a good branch. However, if we purposely choose to do the opposite of what God says then we are acting alone and will accomplish nothing. We cannot bear positive fruitful lives with out being directly connected to God.
Question: When people look at our lives and the fruit we are producing......what vine(tree) do they think our branches belong to?
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
TEAM Kid
I have some exciting news for all of you with kids from 1-5th grade. This fall we are kicking off a new and exciting Wednesday night ministry called Team Kid. This will be a fun time for your kids to hang with their friends while they learn the Bible in creative and life-changing ways. When a kid is at this age they are learning so much every day. We want to take advantage of this curious age and engage their hearts, mind and souls in with the truth of God's Word. This is critical for them and their life development in Christ. Think about it.....
If you want your child to excel in Piano, you make sure they have Piano lessons at least 2 times a week. Same is true with sports, the arts and whatever it is that your child wants to excel. Your child cannot become efficient and excel in anything if they only think about it for about an hour a week on Sunday.
Team Kid will not be boring! Clint Newton has designed it so that it is high energy, fun, has competitive games, and focuses on your kids being with friends while the focus is to learn how to apply the Bible to their daily lives. He has built an incredible Team of adult volunteers and they are working hard to provide a special evening for your Kids on Wednesday nights.
Team Kid will not be every Wednesday night all year long. It will be 10 weeks long in the Fall. 10 more in Winter and 8 in the Spring. Their will be 3-5 week breaks in between each session. Each "session" will be different and your kid can jump in at at any time.
Go upstairs to the All-Stars KIDS area for more details.
Today Bible Reading: John chapter 14 (I was off from the reading and on the wrong chapter...)
In this chapter we see Jesus calling the Holy Spirit the great counselor or comforter. He tells us that the Holy Spirit is with us at all times. He is the One who "lives in us" and will never leave us. He gives us peace, comfort and even wisdom to make right choices. The Holy Spirit is God. He is part of the Trinity of God. God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. When you and I say we have "Jesus in our heart" or God is with us.....we are making reference to passages like this that say that God "indwells" each of us through his Holy Spirit. It is the way that God can be every where at once.
As Christians we have joined our lives to God. He comes into our lives as we invite him and is always wth us through the great Holy Spirit. I love the fact here that Bible says the Holy Spirit is the Great Counselor and comforter. Do you need some counsel today? Do you need comforting?
If you have Christ in your life.....you have what you need at your finger tips!
If you want your child to excel in Piano, you make sure they have Piano lessons at least 2 times a week. Same is true with sports, the arts and whatever it is that your child wants to excel. Your child cannot become efficient and excel in anything if they only think about it for about an hour a week on Sunday.
Team Kid will not be boring! Clint Newton has designed it so that it is high energy, fun, has competitive games, and focuses on your kids being with friends while the focus is to learn how to apply the Bible to their daily lives. He has built an incredible Team of adult volunteers and they are working hard to provide a special evening for your Kids on Wednesday nights.
Team Kid will not be every Wednesday night all year long. It will be 10 weeks long in the Fall. 10 more in Winter and 8 in the Spring. Their will be 3-5 week breaks in between each session. Each "session" will be different and your kid can jump in at at any time.
Go upstairs to the All-Stars KIDS area for more details.
Today Bible Reading: John chapter 14 (I was off from the reading and on the wrong chapter...)
In this chapter we see Jesus calling the Holy Spirit the great counselor or comforter. He tells us that the Holy Spirit is with us at all times. He is the One who "lives in us" and will never leave us. He gives us peace, comfort and even wisdom to make right choices. The Holy Spirit is God. He is part of the Trinity of God. God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. When you and I say we have "Jesus in our heart" or God is with us.....we are making reference to passages like this that say that God "indwells" each of us through his Holy Spirit. It is the way that God can be every where at once.
As Christians we have joined our lives to God. He comes into our lives as we invite him and is always wth us through the great Holy Spirit. I love the fact here that Bible says the Holy Spirit is the Great Counselor and comforter. Do you need some counsel today? Do you need comforting?
If you have Christ in your life.....you have what you need at your finger tips!
Monday, August 11, 2008
Moving In Grace
Sunday was a good day. In all three services I saw many people who took serious the challenge of writing down a name or situation that they had never truly forgiven someone and moved on. It was exciting to see so many take the those names and throw them in the provided trash cans that we had placed around the auditorium.
In the End Zone after each service people shared with me about the anger, resentment, hate, and many other feelings they have had against a parent, spouse, friend or other person in their life. However, on this day they were choosing not to swallow the poison any more and were going to forgive.
As I write this BLOG the sun is coming up and it is a new day. I am praying for many of you that today is the first day in a long time you can breath in and breath out with the sweet oxygen of Grace. Grace that you have received and Grace that you have offered. It is the only way to live.......truly live free!
If.....yesterday you could not bring yourself to move toward forgiving someone and today you are still harboring anger and such toward that person or situation, then, contact the church office and ask to speak to one of our pastors. We would love to help you understand more about the message yesterday and begin the process of accepting and then moving in grace.
Speaking of living free......if you have accepted Christ as your savior but have never been baptized, then please email chris@charlottesouth.org and get the info you need. A pastor will contact you ASAP about our upcoming baptism.
Today's Bible Reading John Chapter 12
Today we read about the triumphal entry of Jesus. People were excited to see Him and Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. However, in the back ground the Jewish leaders were getting more and more concerned about this Jesus who people were following. They knew they would need to kill him soon.
Have you ever wondered how the people went from...one day laying out palm branches and hailing Him as King to just a few short days later screaming at the top of their lungs...."crucify him!" We sometimes think..."I would never have done that!" However, how many times have we had a wonderful worship experience, heard a great message, made a few spiritual commitments and then only a little time later we have completely stopped doing the things we promised God we would do and moreover, have begun doing the again the wrong things we said we would stop. In a sense we go very quickly from hailing Him as King to turning around and saying...."I will do want I want Jesus, you are not worthy of my following you." Ouch! That hurts I know. However, in my life and your, that is what we do. We just don't do it in His face!
In the End Zone after each service people shared with me about the anger, resentment, hate, and many other feelings they have had against a parent, spouse, friend or other person in their life. However, on this day they were choosing not to swallow the poison any more and were going to forgive.
As I write this BLOG the sun is coming up and it is a new day. I am praying for many of you that today is the first day in a long time you can breath in and breath out with the sweet oxygen of Grace. Grace that you have received and Grace that you have offered. It is the only way to live.......truly live free!
If.....yesterday you could not bring yourself to move toward forgiving someone and today you are still harboring anger and such toward that person or situation, then, contact the church office and ask to speak to one of our pastors. We would love to help you understand more about the message yesterday and begin the process of accepting and then moving in grace.
Speaking of living free......if you have accepted Christ as your savior but have never been baptized, then please email chris@charlottesouth.org and get the info you need. A pastor will contact you ASAP about our upcoming baptism.
Today's Bible Reading John Chapter 12
Today we read about the triumphal entry of Jesus. People were excited to see Him and Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. However, in the back ground the Jewish leaders were getting more and more concerned about this Jesus who people were following. They knew they would need to kill him soon.
Have you ever wondered how the people went from...one day laying out palm branches and hailing Him as King to just a few short days later screaming at the top of their lungs...."crucify him!" We sometimes think..."I would never have done that!" However, how many times have we had a wonderful worship experience, heard a great message, made a few spiritual commitments and then only a little time later we have completely stopped doing the things we promised God we would do and moreover, have begun doing the again the wrong things we said we would stop. In a sense we go very quickly from hailing Him as King to turning around and saying...."I will do want I want Jesus, you are not worthy of my following you." Ouch! That hurts I know. However, in my life and your, that is what we do. We just don't do it in His face!
Friday, August 8, 2008
Lead Team At CSF
This morning I met with a group that I meet with once a month. I met with the CSF Lead Team. This is a group of people that are volunteers at CSF who have committed their lives to the leadership, direction and protection of our great church. Their role is to give prayerful leadership to CSF and to me as the Lead Pastor. As you know, we are a Staff led and Lead Team governed Church. The Lead Team provides spiritual direction and protection for the church, while the staff is responsible for daily operations.
At CSF we practice a Team approach to ministry and our structures are streamlined to empower people for ministry. The Lead Team has been given the task of leading out in matters of larger vision and purpose of the church. The Lead Team is the group that oversees things like land and building purchases, oversee the business side of a growing church like ours, they assist me in overseeing our growing staff, they set my personal salary and give me direct accountability. Most importantly they have been given the spiritual task of making sure that CSF stays on mission and purpose in our community and world.
If you have never read about our Lead Team on the website here are the people that are on this incredible Lead Team.
Lead Team
* Bill Branigan (On Leave)
* Greg Crosby
* Kenny Hibbard
* Mark Little
* Andrew Montognese
Today we met and discussed some of the amazing things that God is doing at our church. We talked about the joint worship and baptism service that we are having with Champion Christian Center, a predominately African American church in our area.
We continue to pray about and lay out strategies for implementing the God given vision and purpose has given to our church. We have some really cool things that we will be sharing with the church in the next few weeks/months. As a matter of fact over 100 volunteer leaders at CSF will be here this weekend for our annual Leadership Gathering. This is the annual time where we lay out some specific directions for our the upcoming ministry year. Always a fun time!
Our new land purchase has been accepted for the rezoning process.....start praying for a smooth process.
Today's Bible Reading John Chapter 10
I love the leadership principle in verses 11-13. Jesus said that he is the Good Shepherd that is willing to give His life for His sheep. He is willing because He sees us as His own children. He compares it to the difference between a "hired-hand" who is at work watching the sheep only for the money and the shepherd who owns and loves the sheep. When a wolf comes to kill the sheep....the hired hand thinks.."This is not worth the money I am making, I am not risking my life for those dumb sheep!" The owner shepherd is willing to die to protect the sheep he loves.
As a leader at CSF......I agree with Jesus. I can tell when a staff member and a volunteer are "hired-guns" and when they actually have fallen in love with the vision and mission of this church. When hard times hit.....when personal sacrifice may be needed.....those who are sold out to the vision and mission keep moving forward. I love being with those types of people. I love the fact that Jesus compared Himself to that kind of shepherd. That is the kind of Leader/Pastor I strive to be.
At CSF we practice a Team approach to ministry and our structures are streamlined to empower people for ministry. The Lead Team has been given the task of leading out in matters of larger vision and purpose of the church. The Lead Team is the group that oversees things like land and building purchases, oversee the business side of a growing church like ours, they assist me in overseeing our growing staff, they set my personal salary and give me direct accountability. Most importantly they have been given the spiritual task of making sure that CSF stays on mission and purpose in our community and world.
If you have never read about our Lead Team on the website here are the people that are on this incredible Lead Team.
Lead Team
* Bill Branigan (On Leave)
* Greg Crosby
* Kenny Hibbard
* Mark Little
* Andrew Montognese
Today we met and discussed some of the amazing things that God is doing at our church. We talked about the joint worship and baptism service that we are having with Champion Christian Center, a predominately African American church in our area.
We continue to pray about and lay out strategies for implementing the God given vision and purpose has given to our church. We have some really cool things that we will be sharing with the church in the next few weeks/months. As a matter of fact over 100 volunteer leaders at CSF will be here this weekend for our annual Leadership Gathering. This is the annual time where we lay out some specific directions for our the upcoming ministry year. Always a fun time!
Our new land purchase has been accepted for the rezoning process.....start praying for a smooth process.
Today's Bible Reading John Chapter 10
I love the leadership principle in verses 11-13. Jesus said that he is the Good Shepherd that is willing to give His life for His sheep. He is willing because He sees us as His own children. He compares it to the difference between a "hired-hand" who is at work watching the sheep only for the money and the shepherd who owns and loves the sheep. When a wolf comes to kill the sheep....the hired hand thinks.."This is not worth the money I am making, I am not risking my life for those dumb sheep!" The owner shepherd is willing to die to protect the sheep he loves.
As a leader at CSF......I agree with Jesus. I can tell when a staff member and a volunteer are "hired-guns" and when they actually have fallen in love with the vision and mission of this church. When hard times hit.....when personal sacrifice may be needed.....those who are sold out to the vision and mission keep moving forward. I love being with those types of people. I love the fact that Jesus compared Himself to that kind of shepherd. That is the kind of Leader/Pastor I strive to be.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Sitting In the Waiting Room
Through the wonder of technology I am able to write my morning BLOG from the waiting room at Presbyterian Matthews. Our 3 year-old-son Brady is having his adenoids, tonsils and some nodules taken out. He is also having a one stop shop by having a 1/2 inch spot taken off his head. We figure that if he was out....get it all done at once.
At three he is young enough that he had no idea what was happening. The good nurse came in and gave him the "pink juice" that is suppose to make him relaxed, giggly or at least very calm. Well.....Brady must be able to handle the "hard stuff" because ten minutes after taking the "pink juice" he was still awake and not wanting to get into the bed and put on a gown. At the last moment...the nurse just took him back.
He is now in a 45 minute surgery to get all that done. If you are reading this between 7:30am and 8:30am.....say a little pray for the little guy!
While sitting here waiting for the surgeries to be done.....my wife was telling me about the people who had shared with her that they would stop by today and check on Brady as e will be here until Friday morning. Of course, as you know, we are very use to being at hospitals and having Ellie go through more surgeries and such than we can even remember. So we are ole' vets at this......
However, it is nice to know that we have such good relationship with people that they want to come and hang with us. Here is a question for YOU? Are you doing what it takes to build authentic and real relationships with people so that they want to be with you in good and hard times. So many people at our church have these kinds of relationships. However, many of you do not.
If you are new to CSF or if you have never taken the time to build close relationships....I want to encourage you to get into a Home Team this coming fall. If you can't name 2-3 close people that live here in town that would come be with you in hard times....then you are missing out on what the Bible calls Fellowship. If you want more info on our Home Teams, contact Aldyn Keefer at the CSF office!
Don't forget.....Behind The Music 2008 is in two weeks! ROCK THE VOTE!
Today's Bible Reading: John chapter 8
I am in the hospital without a Bible. Although I have it memorized.....I did not want to show off by giving a devotional on a chapter by memory....HA HA just kidding!
At three he is young enough that he had no idea what was happening. The good nurse came in and gave him the "pink juice" that is suppose to make him relaxed, giggly or at least very calm. Well.....Brady must be able to handle the "hard stuff" because ten minutes after taking the "pink juice" he was still awake and not wanting to get into the bed and put on a gown. At the last moment...the nurse just took him back.
He is now in a 45 minute surgery to get all that done. If you are reading this between 7:30am and 8:30am.....say a little pray for the little guy!
While sitting here waiting for the surgeries to be done.....my wife was telling me about the people who had shared with her that they would stop by today and check on Brady as e will be here until Friday morning. Of course, as you know, we are very use to being at hospitals and having Ellie go through more surgeries and such than we can even remember. So we are ole' vets at this......
However, it is nice to know that we have such good relationship with people that they want to come and hang with us. Here is a question for YOU? Are you doing what it takes to build authentic and real relationships with people so that they want to be with you in good and hard times. So many people at our church have these kinds of relationships. However, many of you do not.
If you are new to CSF or if you have never taken the time to build close relationships....I want to encourage you to get into a Home Team this coming fall. If you can't name 2-3 close people that live here in town that would come be with you in hard times....then you are missing out on what the Bible calls Fellowship. If you want more info on our Home Teams, contact Aldyn Keefer at the CSF office!
Don't forget.....Behind The Music 2008 is in two weeks! ROCK THE VOTE!
Today's Bible Reading: John chapter 8
I am in the hospital without a Bible. Although I have it memorized.....I did not want to show off by giving a devotional on a chapter by memory....HA HA just kidding!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Special Worship & Baptism Serivce With African American Church
The Pastor of Champion Christian Center and I have a lot in common!
1) He is a church planter and the church meets at South Meck High School. I am a church planter and we use to meet at South Meck.
2) His favorite sport is football! Same here...
3) His favorite college football team is the University Of Florida....Same here
4) He wants the church that he leads to reach unchurched people and help them become fully devoted followers of Christ....same here.
5) He likes to eat...same here.
6) He helps coach his son's football teams....same here.
However, Stacey Lemay is an African American pastor of a predominately African American church.....I am not.
When we go out to lunch neither of us sees color. (we are just hoping the other picks up the bill...ha ha )I grew up on a Military base in my younger days and then lived in Florida playing sports. I have never really thought much about it...same with Stacey.
A few months ago we talked about the racial tension and awareness that is creeping into the presidential race (no pun intended) and how racially charged things are getting. It was then we decided that it would be cool to have a joint worship & baptism service. A time where his predominately African American church and our predominately white church would join styles and passion for a great night. Mark your calendars now for Wednesday night the 27th...it will be awesome!
Today's Bible Reading: John Chapter 8
This is a classic Bible teaching by Jesus. The point is very clear.....Some of us come to church, read our Bible and hear God's truth. However, different things happen to different people because of the condition of their heart when they hear the truth:
1) Some are so caught up in enjoying the "wrong" things of the world that when they hear the truth it falls on deaf ears (hard heart) and they continue doing things the way Satan would prefer.
2) Some hear the truth and it is great news that makes them happy. However, very soon because they did not let the truth sink into their hearts and take root they are swept back into their old ways and they leave the joy they discovered and head back to a false sense of pleasure.
3) Some hear the truth but they never are smart or disciplined to "get the thorns out" from their life. They come to church, read their Bible, get in a Home Team, Serve at church....but the thorns of sin are still in their house (Pornography, Drugs, Sexual temptations, etc.) Even though they are growing in Christ...soon they are choked again by their old way of life that they never got rid of.
4) Some hear the truth and they accept it. They get rid of the sinful temptations in their life that can so easily entangle us. They attend to their "new garden of spiritual truth" by weeding, watering it and helping it to grow.
Which one are you right now? You can be number 4 if you desire to be!
1) He is a church planter and the church meets at South Meck High School. I am a church planter and we use to meet at South Meck.
2) His favorite sport is football! Same here...
3) His favorite college football team is the University Of Florida....Same here
4) He wants the church that he leads to reach unchurched people and help them become fully devoted followers of Christ....same here.
5) He likes to eat...same here.
6) He helps coach his son's football teams....same here.
However, Stacey Lemay is an African American pastor of a predominately African American church.....I am not.
When we go out to lunch neither of us sees color. (we are just hoping the other picks up the bill...ha ha )I grew up on a Military base in my younger days and then lived in Florida playing sports. I have never really thought much about it...same with Stacey.
A few months ago we talked about the racial tension and awareness that is creeping into the presidential race (no pun intended) and how racially charged things are getting. It was then we decided that it would be cool to have a joint worship & baptism service. A time where his predominately African American church and our predominately white church would join styles and passion for a great night. Mark your calendars now for Wednesday night the 27th...it will be awesome!
Today's Bible Reading: John Chapter 8
This is a classic Bible teaching by Jesus. The point is very clear.....Some of us come to church, read our Bible and hear God's truth. However, different things happen to different people because of the condition of their heart when they hear the truth:
1) Some are so caught up in enjoying the "wrong" things of the world that when they hear the truth it falls on deaf ears (hard heart) and they continue doing things the way Satan would prefer.
2) Some hear the truth and it is great news that makes them happy. However, very soon because they did not let the truth sink into their hearts and take root they are swept back into their old ways and they leave the joy they discovered and head back to a false sense of pleasure.
3) Some hear the truth but they never are smart or disciplined to "get the thorns out" from their life. They come to church, read their Bible, get in a Home Team, Serve at church....but the thorns of sin are still in their house (Pornography, Drugs, Sexual temptations, etc.) Even though they are growing in Christ...soon they are choked again by their old way of life that they never got rid of.
4) Some hear the truth and they accept it. They get rid of the sinful temptations in their life that can so easily entangle us. They attend to their "new garden of spiritual truth" by weeding, watering it and helping it to grow.
Which one are you right now? You can be number 4 if you desire to be!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
"I am having a hard time forgiving myself"
Steve Smith, the star wide receiver for the Panthers, gave a statement yesterday about the hitting episode that happened last Friday. In his statement he said that for the first time in his life he has done something so bad that he is having a hard time forgiving himself. Ken Lucas, the player he punched, broke his nose and will require surgery..... also had a statement. He said that he would not be able to attend Bible study this week if he did not offer grace and forgiveness to Steve. WOW.....This forgiveness series we are in is all over the papers. Steve Smith needs to stop trying to forgive himself and just confess his wrong doing to God and then accept His forgiveness and Ken Lucas is acting out this coming weeks teaching on "Moving In Grace."
This story is getting headlines because it is about the Panthers and their players. However, on Sunday I had many tearful people come up to me in our End Zone and express concern and disbelief that they could ever forgive certain people in their lives. I was asked these such questions:
* How can I forgive someone who does not ask for it?
* How can I forgive someone who is not sorry?
* How do I personally move on when the people I have wronged still are mad at me and hold it against me?
* Ho do I move in grace when the circumstances I caused are still hurtful to me and others?
These are great questions.....I will answer these on Sunday as we wrap up this short but needed series called Blind Spot. Speaking of Blind Spot....if someone knows Steve Smith's email address, send him the link to last weeks message so he can get off the treadmill of trying to forgive himself and he can just accept God's forgiveness. I have personally met Steve a few times at different Charlotte Rescue Mission events that he supports and have had breakfast with him once there. He is really a quite and nice guy who has yet to learn how to control all of his emotions on the field.
GO PANTHERS!
New Land Update: We have submitted and the City Of Matthews has accepted our request for rezoning of the 38 acres behind our current 20 acres of land. This is step 1...we have 3 more to go! If you know a Town Council person......remind them you go to CSF and that you and many,many,many others are looking forward to the land being rezoned!
Today's Bible Reading: ( I messed up yesterday and wrote about John chapter 3...really yesterday was John chapter 6 and today is John chapter 7)
John Chapter 7
This chapter is a great lesson on why we have the kind of Sunday church services that we have at CSF. We see Jesus teaching at the Feast. However, different people are clueless of what had been taught about the Messiah who would come. They were saying things they thought were true, but were actually inaccurate teachings about the Christ who would come. They were not understanding what Jesus was saying because they were not sure what they believed.
Many people go to church now or went to church as a kid and never really understood what they Priest, Preacher or Pastor was teaching. They just went because they had to and never really understood what was being taught. At CSF we major on making sure we not only teach....but we teach for understanding and application. Truth that is not understood or applied does no one any good. Our goal on Sunday is that Christians grow deeper in their understanding and the living out of what is being taught. Moreover, we design our style so that even a new person who has never been to church can understand and be moved by the life-changing message of Jesus Christ!
This story is getting headlines because it is about the Panthers and their players. However, on Sunday I had many tearful people come up to me in our End Zone and express concern and disbelief that they could ever forgive certain people in their lives. I was asked these such questions:
* How can I forgive someone who does not ask for it?
* How can I forgive someone who is not sorry?
* How do I personally move on when the people I have wronged still are mad at me and hold it against me?
* Ho do I move in grace when the circumstances I caused are still hurtful to me and others?
These are great questions.....I will answer these on Sunday as we wrap up this short but needed series called Blind Spot. Speaking of Blind Spot....if someone knows Steve Smith's email address, send him the link to last weeks message so he can get off the treadmill of trying to forgive himself and he can just accept God's forgiveness. I have personally met Steve a few times at different Charlotte Rescue Mission events that he supports and have had breakfast with him once there. He is really a quite and nice guy who has yet to learn how to control all of his emotions on the field.
GO PANTHERS!
New Land Update: We have submitted and the City Of Matthews has accepted our request for rezoning of the 38 acres behind our current 20 acres of land. This is step 1...we have 3 more to go! If you know a Town Council person......remind them you go to CSF and that you and many,many,many others are looking forward to the land being rezoned!
Today's Bible Reading: ( I messed up yesterday and wrote about John chapter 3...really yesterday was John chapter 6 and today is John chapter 7)
John Chapter 7
This chapter is a great lesson on why we have the kind of Sunday church services that we have at CSF. We see Jesus teaching at the Feast. However, different people are clueless of what had been taught about the Messiah who would come. They were saying things they thought were true, but were actually inaccurate teachings about the Christ who would come. They were not understanding what Jesus was saying because they were not sure what they believed.
Many people go to church now or went to church as a kid and never really understood what they Priest, Preacher or Pastor was teaching. They just went because they had to and never really understood what was being taught. At CSF we major on making sure we not only teach....but we teach for understanding and application. Truth that is not understood or applied does no one any good. Our goal on Sunday is that Christians grow deeper in their understanding and the living out of what is being taught. Moreover, we design our style so that even a new person who has never been to church can understand and be moved by the life-changing message of Jesus Christ!
Monday, August 4, 2008
Time To Start Year Two
As you know, I took the month of July off from Blog world. As I stated when I started this last year.....this BLOG was not a "Keep in touch" with my personal world (so I was not going to BLOG from my vacations or "twitter" anyone about what I was thinking while sitting by the pool). The BLOG also was not going to give statistics of how wonderful our church is in a spiritual bragging kind of way.
As I stated at the end of each service yesterday... I use the BLOG for church information that you need to know, a little for church advertising of what is coming up that you need to be a part of and for daily inspiration in the form of devotional thoughts using our daily Bible reading and my personal experiences. I was actually shocked by how many people were daily readers and were sharing it with their friends as a tool to share with their friends about our church. I was also surprised to find out how many of my wife's family from out of town read it weekly.......I had to start watching what I said.....HA HA
So.....we are back. Lets get started:
Yesterday we had an awesome service as many of you ended the service by taking communion. The message of how to truly accept grace was well received and by the looks of the watery eyes in each service....well needed. Many of you said that you had never heard that you really can't forgive yourself. (sorry Oprah and Dr. Phil)It is impossible to forgive yourself. In the Bible we are never asked to, taught how to or shown an example of it. Why? Because you can't do it. However, what we can do is to confess our sins and then accept God's grace and forgiveness. Done deal.....
Next week we will talk about how do we "Move or Live in Grace." The practical way we give and receive forgiveness in ALL relationships. As Carolina Panther fans we will have front row seats this week to the saga with Steve Smith. Today, he is suppose to apologize for his attack on a teammate that has cost him a two game suspension. The news media is reporting that some of his teammates have said it is "unforgivable" others have said, "we all make mistakes it is time to move on.." Steve and his teammates will have to learn how to "move in Grace" this week.
Today's Bible Reading: We are in John chapter 3.
(Yesterday we passed out bookmarks with the new easy web site of WWW.KennyHibbard.com and the reading guide for August and September.)
The first pre-season NFL football game was last night. After the first touchdown, the Redskins kicked an extra point. As normal, a fan held up a sign that read: John 3:16. Why is it that you see that sign at every football game? Why is it that most people who have ever been to church can quote that verse? Because John 3:16 is a basic presentation of the "good news" (The word Gospel comes from the two words that mean Good news) of Jesus Christ.
That verse says that God loves you and me a whole bunch. It is the basis of the new song we have been singing on Sunday ..."Oh How He Loves Us So." God loves us so much that he sent His son to die for our sins. The reason I could tell you on Sunday that God can make our sins "just-as-if-I-had-never sinned" or Justified...is because of that great love. Today... What have you done that you think is so bad that God could not forgive you and make you Justified? Whatever comes to mind...is wrong. You have never done anything that God has not already forgiven you for....and He waits for you to confess the wrong doing and accept His complete forgiveness. Verse 18 says that when we believe in Him and place our trust in Him....we are forever....NOT Condemned.
After you think about that for a minute.....send this BLOG to a CSF friend and remind them....we are back to the daily BLOG!
As I stated at the end of each service yesterday... I use the BLOG for church information that you need to know, a little for church advertising of what is coming up that you need to be a part of and for daily inspiration in the form of devotional thoughts using our daily Bible reading and my personal experiences. I was actually shocked by how many people were daily readers and were sharing it with their friends as a tool to share with their friends about our church. I was also surprised to find out how many of my wife's family from out of town read it weekly.......I had to start watching what I said.....HA HA
So.....we are back. Lets get started:
Yesterday we had an awesome service as many of you ended the service by taking communion. The message of how to truly accept grace was well received and by the looks of the watery eyes in each service....well needed. Many of you said that you had never heard that you really can't forgive yourself. (sorry Oprah and Dr. Phil)It is impossible to forgive yourself. In the Bible we are never asked to, taught how to or shown an example of it. Why? Because you can't do it. However, what we can do is to confess our sins and then accept God's grace and forgiveness. Done deal.....
Next week we will talk about how do we "Move or Live in Grace." The practical way we give and receive forgiveness in ALL relationships. As Carolina Panther fans we will have front row seats this week to the saga with Steve Smith. Today, he is suppose to apologize for his attack on a teammate that has cost him a two game suspension. The news media is reporting that some of his teammates have said it is "unforgivable" others have said, "we all make mistakes it is time to move on.." Steve and his teammates will have to learn how to "move in Grace" this week.
Today's Bible Reading: We are in John chapter 3.
(Yesterday we passed out bookmarks with the new easy web site of WWW.KennyHibbard.com and the reading guide for August and September.)
The first pre-season NFL football game was last night. After the first touchdown, the Redskins kicked an extra point. As normal, a fan held up a sign that read: John 3:16. Why is it that you see that sign at every football game? Why is it that most people who have ever been to church can quote that verse? Because John 3:16 is a basic presentation of the "good news" (The word Gospel comes from the two words that mean Good news) of Jesus Christ.
That verse says that God loves you and me a whole bunch. It is the basis of the new song we have been singing on Sunday ..."Oh How He Loves Us So." God loves us so much that he sent His son to die for our sins. The reason I could tell you on Sunday that God can make our sins "just-as-if-I-had-never sinned" or Justified...is because of that great love. Today... What have you done that you think is so bad that God could not forgive you and make you Justified? Whatever comes to mind...is wrong. You have never done anything that God has not already forgiven you for....and He waits for you to confess the wrong doing and accept His complete forgiveness. Verse 18 says that when we believe in Him and place our trust in Him....we are forever....NOT Condemned.
After you think about that for a minute.....send this BLOG to a CSF friend and remind them....we are back to the daily BLOG!
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