What was I thinking, I was just going to quit my job and start a new church with no problems. Everything would fall into place. OUT OF MY MIND!!! Throughout the bible everyone that God asked to do something it started with problems, Moses in Egypt; first time he talked to pharaoh he told him no. David was told he would be king, next thing he knew he is running for his life. God does have a plan but to think that plan is coming about with no obstacles you are mistaken. Walking through the journey is what grows our faith. It allows us to be dependent on Him. That is a lesson I was reminded of this week when we put our house on the market and we were told if we wanted the asking price we had to spend x amount of dollars on new counter tops. Granted our counter tops are ugly. Looks like the 70's threw up in our kitchen. I don't have the money but I do have the faith if I would just trust him.
God has a plan for each us sometimes you think the plan is too big or too much has happened. Let me encourage you, it is His plan for your life and if you trust him he will guide you over the speed bumps. Just believe.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
In the Beginning
Well, step one; sell the house. Met with the realtor last night and wouldn't you know it he is a Christ follower. We explained what we were doing, he stated he would agree with us that God would sell the house for the right price and at the right time.
Next up Fundraising; That's right "give me all your money" it's happened I've turned into one of those TV evangelist. Well, not quite. I would ask that you prayerfully consider partnering with us in the journey. I can't do this without help. It's not about me it's about teamwork, joining together to accomplish what God desires.
We have to raise $100,000. MAN, that's alot of zeros. Truth is, the money is out there. The question is are you willing to part with it. Your investment will go directly to the Meto East Network, where it will be used to fund the church during the first three years. It is our goal to reach the people of East St. Louis with the love of God: reconnecting the Creator with His creation. It can be a one time gift or monthly offering.
All I ask is pray about it.
Next up Fundraising; That's right "give me all your money" it's happened I've turned into one of those TV evangelist. Well, not quite. I would ask that you prayerfully consider partnering with us in the journey. I can't do this without help. It's not about me it's about teamwork, joining together to accomplish what God desires.
We have to raise $100,000. MAN, that's alot of zeros. Truth is, the money is out there. The question is are you willing to part with it. Your investment will go directly to the Meto East Network, where it will be used to fund the church during the first three years. It is our goal to reach the people of East St. Louis with the love of God: reconnecting the Creator with His creation. It can be a one time gift or monthly offering.
All I ask is pray about it.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Metro East Project
As some of you know, Kerrey and I made another trip to Collinsville to meet with the management team. This time was different, instead of going with questions we went with answers and came home with an agreement. Dec. 4th I signed the bottom line and am the official church planter for the Metro East St. Louis project. There is just a Godly connection to the area. I was driving around the area and felt as if I had lived there for years.
Over the next 10 months I will be prepping for what looks like a 10/10/10 launch date. I can't tell you how excited I am about this. So many of you have been asking what you can do, well for starters you can pray; pray our house sells quickly. Pray for our kids that the transition is smooth for them. Pray we raise the money we need to do the job right.
I will be updating my blog on a regular basis so stay in touch and find out what is going on.
Erik "church planter"
Over the next 10 months I will be prepping for what looks like a 10/10/10 launch date. I can't tell you how excited I am about this. So many of you have been asking what you can do, well for starters you can pray; pray our house sells quickly. Pray for our kids that the transition is smooth for them. Pray we raise the money we need to do the job right.
I will be updating my blog on a regular basis so stay in touch and find out what is going on.
Erik "church planter"
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Need VS. Want
The other day I posted a question on Facebook: What do you think the world needs? There were some interesting answers. One thing we can agree on is God. Let me ask you a follow up question, what does the world want? Now, the subject is wide open. You will have everything from peace to stopping world hunger to I just want to be happy. So, how do you go from want to need? In the past we have just told people what they need not stopping long enough to listen to what they want. Human nature struggles between want and need. "Need", dictates work. Where "want" carries the idea of fun. For far too long, we have tried pushing "need" (God) on people. Isn't it about time we start with the "want" and lead them to the "need".
Sunday, September 27, 2009
"Great spirits have always found violent opposition from mediocre minds. The latter cannot understand it when a [person] does not thoughtlessly submit to hereditary prejudices but honestly and courageously uses their intelligence.”
- Albert Einstein
It amazes me that we are so quick to dismiss someone because they think or act a little different. I say embrace the difference and use it for the benefit of mankind.
What do you think?
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Epidemic:
1. A disease or anything resembling a disease; attacking or affecting many individuals in a community or a population simultaneously.
2. Anything which takes possession of the minds of people as an epidemic does of their bodies; as, an epidemic of terror.
“A majority of twenty-somethings - 61% of today’s young adults - had been churched at one point during their teen years but they are now spiritually disengaged (i.e., not actively attending church, reading the Bible, or praying). ….George Barna
What are your thoughts? Why is this happening? What can we do to turn this trend around?
2. Anything which takes possession of the minds of people as an epidemic does of their bodies; as, an epidemic of terror.
“A majority of twenty-somethings - 61% of today’s young adults - had been churched at one point during their teen years but they are now spiritually disengaged (i.e., not actively attending church, reading the Bible, or praying). ….George Barna
What are your thoughts? Why is this happening? What can we do to turn this trend around?
Monday, September 21, 2009
Week of assessment
Last week Kerrey and I took a trip to Baltimore MD for a church planting assessment. It was one of the most stressful times in my life. Within in one week two guys look at you and let you know if you are fit for church planting. Granted they are not God, but they have been doing this a long time and have it down to a science. Day one started with a one half hour session with the psychologist asking for your life story. I will admit I was worried: from child abuse, to the two failed marriages, to the drug abuse I assumed that would knock me right out the running. The doc seemed interested, but never in a disqualifying way.
Day two we meet as a large group and begin the by breaking into groups, working on projects through-out the day. It was amazing to me how a group of strangers, that want to stick out, could work together in harmony to accomplish a goal; even if it was just a ten minute skit.
The rest of the week was more of the same. Through-out the day we worked on projects as teams, never joining back to the same people. At night we were given the larger projects, such as, creating a fictional church and putting together a worship service. Again with people you have only known for 24hrs.
From sleep deprivation to pushing the buttons, it drives on to ask if they are truly cut out to plant a church. By the end of the week you learn things about yourself and your spouse. I am pleased to say, my wife is my greatest support and partner in this journey of church planting.
Looking back over the week, I am excited to see the process has changed from welcoming everyone to setting standards, challenging those who believe they are supposed to be in ministry. It is a great responsibility and people deserve the best. If one week of stress can weed out the players from the called, then let it be.
Day two we meet as a large group and begin the by breaking into groups, working on projects through-out the day. It was amazing to me how a group of strangers, that want to stick out, could work together in harmony to accomplish a goal; even if it was just a ten minute skit.
The rest of the week was more of the same. Through-out the day we worked on projects as teams, never joining back to the same people. At night we were given the larger projects, such as, creating a fictional church and putting together a worship service. Again with people you have only known for 24hrs.
From sleep deprivation to pushing the buttons, it drives on to ask if they are truly cut out to plant a church. By the end of the week you learn things about yourself and your spouse. I am pleased to say, my wife is my greatest support and partner in this journey of church planting.
Looking back over the week, I am excited to see the process has changed from welcoming everyone to setting standards, challenging those who believe they are supposed to be in ministry. It is a great responsibility and people deserve the best. If one week of stress can weed out the players from the called, then let it be.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Fear or Faith
Fear, that gripping feeling you get when you have no idea what is going on but you know it is going to be bad. The unkown, propbably the greatest fear of all. It is also the greatest point of faith. Look at it this way. You are standing in front of a door, you have no idea what is on the other side. You have two choices at that moment. One, fear; being afraid of what is on the other side. What could happen to you if you open the door. Or faith: with that same door you can trust God has something good in store for your life. Paul, said "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him"
Don't let the doors of life scare you away from the work God wants to do in your life.
Don't let the doors of life scare you away from the work God wants to do in your life.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Leadership
Every time I talk to someone about leadership the name Bill Hybells comes up. I love the guy and have read a list of his books. While getting ready to plant a new work it is my goal to achieve these five things.
He says: “Based on my three decades in ministry and many of my travels to churches around the world, I offer the following observations. I can honestly say that in every church I have seen prevail, I have witnessed leaders who have gotten good at these kinds of things.”
1. Keep the Vision Clear - Vision casting! It is absolutely critical toward helping a church reach its redemptive potential, and every leader has to learn how to do it.
2. Get People Engaged - Get people to serve in areas of ministry to fulfill the vision that God has given you. “I have never seen a church reach its full redemptive potential unless there were fired-up teams doing the work of God.” Volunteerism at its best!
3. Create Great Services - “I’ve never seen a church go from strength to strength and reach its full redemptive potential unless some team inside that church decided that their part of God’s vision was to put on really, really good services - the best they are capable of putting on.”
4. Raise Resources - “Stop being apologetic and realize that it takes money to launch visions. It takes money to feed the hungry and to resource the poor. it takes money to build a children’s ministry. It takes money to have a thriving student ministry in your church.”
5. Pace Yourself for the Long Haul - Self Leadership - “It’s the ability to overcome personal discouragement, to maintain sober-mindedness in crisis, to keep ego at bay at all times, and to stay focused on the life mission.” “Don’t allow yourself to go into peril because you didn’t take the time to regroup, recalibrate, take appropriate time off, retreat spiritually, and refresh your soul.”
He says: “Based on my three decades in ministry and many of my travels to churches around the world, I offer the following observations. I can honestly say that in every church I have seen prevail, I have witnessed leaders who have gotten good at these kinds of things.”
1. Keep the Vision Clear - Vision casting! It is absolutely critical toward helping a church reach its redemptive potential, and every leader has to learn how to do it.
2. Get People Engaged - Get people to serve in areas of ministry to fulfill the vision that God has given you. “I have never seen a church reach its full redemptive potential unless there were fired-up teams doing the work of God.” Volunteerism at its best!
3. Create Great Services - “I’ve never seen a church go from strength to strength and reach its full redemptive potential unless some team inside that church decided that their part of God’s vision was to put on really, really good services - the best they are capable of putting on.”
4. Raise Resources - “Stop being apologetic and realize that it takes money to launch visions. It takes money to feed the hungry and to resource the poor. it takes money to build a children’s ministry. It takes money to have a thriving student ministry in your church.”
5. Pace Yourself for the Long Haul - Self Leadership - “It’s the ability to overcome personal discouragement, to maintain sober-mindedness in crisis, to keep ego at bay at all times, and to stay focused on the life mission.” “Don’t allow yourself to go into peril because you didn’t take the time to regroup, recalibrate, take appropriate time off, retreat spiritually, and refresh your soul.”
Monday, September 7, 2009
Mistaken Identity
I read this and could not help but stop and ask the question, "am I that Christ like".
A few years ago a group of salesmen went to a regional sales
convention in Chicago . They had assured their wives that they would be
home in plenty of time for Friday night's dinner. In their rush, with
tickets and briefcases, one of these salesmen inadvertently kicked over
a table which held a display of apples. Apples flew everywhere Without
stopping or looking back, they all managed to reach the plane in time
for their nearly missed boarding.
ALL BUT ONE! He paused, took a deep breath, got in touch with his
feelings, and experienced a twinge of compassion for the girl whose
apple stand had been overturned.
He told his buddies to go on without him, waved good-bye, told one of
them to call his wife when they arrived at their home destination and
explain his taking a later flight. Then he returned to the terminal
where the apples were all over the terminal floor. He was glad he did.
The 16 year old girl was totally blind! She was softly crying, tears
running down her cheeks in frustration, and at the same time helplessly
groping for her spilled produce as the crowd swirled about her, no one
stopping and no one to care for her plight.
The salesman knelt on the floor with her, gathered up the apples, put
them back on the table and helped organize her display. As he did this,
he noticed that many of them had become battered and bruised; these he
set aside in another basket.
When he had finished, he pulled out his wallet and said to the girl,
"Here, please take this $40 for the damage we did. Are you okay?" She
nodded through her tears. He continued on with, "I hope we didn't spoil
your day too badly."
As the salesman started to walk away, the bewildered blind girl called
out to him, "Mister...." He paused and turned to look back into those
blind eyes. She continued, "Are you Jesus?"
He stopped in mid-stride, and he wondered. Then slowly he made his way
to catch the later flight with that question burning and bouncing about
in his soul: "Are you Jesus?"
What about you have you ever been mistaken for Jesus, do you have to tell people you are a Christ follower or do they know by watching you?
A few years ago a group of salesmen went to a regional sales
convention in Chicago . They had assured their wives that they would be
home in plenty of time for Friday night's dinner. In their rush, with
tickets and briefcases, one of these salesmen inadvertently kicked over
a table which held a display of apples. Apples flew everywhere Without
stopping or looking back, they all managed to reach the plane in time
for their nearly missed boarding.
ALL BUT ONE! He paused, took a deep breath, got in touch with his
feelings, and experienced a twinge of compassion for the girl whose
apple stand had been overturned.
He told his buddies to go on without him, waved good-bye, told one of
them to call his wife when they arrived at their home destination and
explain his taking a later flight. Then he returned to the terminal
where the apples were all over the terminal floor. He was glad he did.
The 16 year old girl was totally blind! She was softly crying, tears
running down her cheeks in frustration, and at the same time helplessly
groping for her spilled produce as the crowd swirled about her, no one
stopping and no one to care for her plight.
The salesman knelt on the floor with her, gathered up the apples, put
them back on the table and helped organize her display. As he did this,
he noticed that many of them had become battered and bruised; these he
set aside in another basket.
When he had finished, he pulled out his wallet and said to the girl,
"Here, please take this $40 for the damage we did. Are you okay?" She
nodded through her tears. He continued on with, "I hope we didn't spoil
your day too badly."
As the salesman started to walk away, the bewildered blind girl called
out to him, "Mister...." He paused and turned to look back into those
blind eyes. She continued, "Are you Jesus?"
He stopped in mid-stride, and he wondered. Then slowly he made his way
to catch the later flight with that question burning and bouncing about
in his soul: "Are you Jesus?"
What about you have you ever been mistaken for Jesus, do you have to tell people you are a Christ follower or do they know by watching you?
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Football
It is hard to believe that so much money is spent on a game fought over a pigskin. What is our obsession with the sport. I will be honest with you I love it. I would spend all day Saturday watching college and then all day Sunday watching pro-football if my wife would let me. Thank God, she is there to balance me out. Is it the thrill of competition, the joy of cheering your team on. What is the allure of football. It is believing in the dream. Each team starts on even ground, all with the same goal in mind to win the BCS title or Superbowl. We buy into the dream as fans pulling for our favorite team as our cheers give them strength to go that extra yard. Same is true of life and the church. We share a common goal to see our friends, coworkers and relatives become connected to God. We cheer one another on at each step someone takes towards Christ. Then we celebrate that great victory when that person we have been talking to makes a decision to become a Christ follower. Our Superbowl. Our BCS title. Let me cheer you on today. Share with that person seating next to you at work or school keep being that light and salt. I believe in you. You can make a difference.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Thorn in my side
Paul tells a story in the bible about having a thorn in his side. He goes to God in prayer asking him to remove the thorn. Strangely, God tells him no. This has always bothered me. I have heard great men try to figure out what that thorn was but, there is no clear understanding. We all have a thorn in our lives. You know that thing that tries to suck you in and control your life. Some addiction or just some issue that you are facing. Paul said his thorn was, "To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surprisingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me." What if God removed the thorn? Would Paul have been the great missionary we know of today or a man full of pride and arrogance claiming all that took place was of his own hands? We all have a thorn in our lives. My challenge to you is this; don't ask God to remove the thorn but ask God to make you Strong IN HIM. "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Let me ask you, when do you find yourself seeking God the most, in times of trouble or times of peace? Don't despise the thorn.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Simple Thought
I wanted to share just a simple thought for the day. Something to think about as you go through your day. After reading this share you thoughts.
"The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results".
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Random thoughts for the day
Just finished watching the Titan's preseason game. Still not sue about VY
Had a good conversation with a friend on the phone. It's nice to hear that there are others out there that share the same passions and vision of church and future ministry.
Drafted my fantasy football team this weekend. Ready for a great season.
Small Group Friday night was a blast I love my group and could not imagine Friday night without them.
Looking forward to assessment. Just a couple of weeks away. Am I ready?
Prayer for the week: Break me, and make me like you.
Had a good conversation with a friend on the phone. It's nice to hear that there are others out there that share the same passions and vision of church and future ministry.
Drafted my fantasy football team this weekend. Ready for a great season.
Small Group Friday night was a blast I love my group and could not imagine Friday night without them.
Looking forward to assessment. Just a couple of weeks away. Am I ready?
Prayer for the week: Break me, and make me like you.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Signs Of Insecurity
Insecurity is something we all have struggled with at one point or another. It is hard knowing that we have so many weaknesses and fail so often. Others don't see the struggles we have or the doubts we have played out in our mind. Learning that we need one another is a hard lesson. "I am an American - I don't need anyone helping me - I have it all together." We tend to believe that asking for help is a sign of weakness when God intended it to be a sign of strength.
I have listed some warning signs for insecurities in your life.
1. You try to make yourself, your church, company, etc. look better by putting others down.
2. You get together with others and only talk about yourself.
3. You think you know it all (or close to it).
4. You don't learn from those around you.
5. You won't allow others to help you.
If you struggle and these fit you, it's time to realize it's ok if you don't have it all together. You weren't meant to to live life alone.
I have listed some warning signs for insecurities in your life.
1. You try to make yourself, your church, company, etc. look better by putting others down.
2. You get together with others and only talk about yourself.
3. You think you know it all (or close to it).
4. You don't learn from those around you.
5. You won't allow others to help you.
If you struggle and these fit you, it's time to realize it's ok if you don't have it all together. You weren't meant to to live life alone.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
10 Danger Signs that should be a red flag to a Spiritual Leader
1. You view other churches or organizations in the “kingdom” as competition.
2. You can do what you are doing without the help of God.
3. You are becoming increasingly cynical.
4. You have no friends that you can REALLY open up to.
5. The only friends that you have are the people helping you to accomplish what you are trying to accomplish — and the minute they are of no use to you anymore — they are no longer your friends.
6. Your disciples resemble “The Pharisees” more than they resemble “Jesus”. They are more concerned with being right, doctrine, control, the political process, how horribly biased the secular media is, than they are allowing God to soften their heart and make them more like Him. When your disciples are mean spirited, paranoid, want you to take a public stand against homosexuals, Harry Potter, or whatever else…. be careful….. You are their teacher. What are you attracting and why? What are you teaching? The world has enough mean spirited fundamentalist that are more concerned that we avoid secular music than they are caring for the poor ………….
7. You have secrets that only you know about.
8. You have escape fantasies.
9. You feel trapped.
10. The only reason that you are doing what you are doing anymore is because you don’t know how else to make a living.
-If this describes you, please know, you can get help. Go see a counselor. Work it out. You can salvage this thing.
2. You can do what you are doing without the help of God.
3. You are becoming increasingly cynical.
4. You have no friends that you can REALLY open up to.
5. The only friends that you have are the people helping you to accomplish what you are trying to accomplish — and the minute they are of no use to you anymore — they are no longer your friends.
6. Your disciples resemble “The Pharisees” more than they resemble “Jesus”. They are more concerned with being right, doctrine, control, the political process, how horribly biased the secular media is, than they are allowing God to soften their heart and make them more like Him. When your disciples are mean spirited, paranoid, want you to take a public stand against homosexuals, Harry Potter, or whatever else…. be careful….. You are their teacher. What are you attracting and why? What are you teaching? The world has enough mean spirited fundamentalist that are more concerned that we avoid secular music than they are caring for the poor ………….
7. You have secrets that only you know about.
8. You have escape fantasies.
9. You feel trapped.
10. The only reason that you are doing what you are doing anymore is because you don’t know how else to make a living.
-If this describes you, please know, you can get help. Go see a counselor. Work it out. You can salvage this thing.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Come Together
I love the fact I am not alone in life. I love being with good friends specially the ones that hold me accountable and are encouraging. God created us to be gregarious; the simple act of being a friend. My favorite friends are broken people. You know the type, they know they are not perfect and are o.k. with it. I like to think of it this way. God is looking down on humanity as a giant puzzle. We are the pieces and separate we are just a funny shapes with no rhyme or reason. But if we realize we are meant to come together and my strengths are your weaknesses and my weaknesses are you strengths. We will become the completed picture that God has intended for His people. We are not in this alone we don’t have to be perfect we only need to learn to lean on the ones around us to make us stronger, better more Christ like. Together we can make a difference; together we can make dreams come true. – will you be my friend.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Update
I wanted to update you on the church planting adventure. God is good and supplying our needs.
We revived our assessment package this week and have been working on it all week long. It included a spiritual gifts test, life questionnaire and two psychological tests. (I failed the psych. test - go figure).
The money for assessment is almost all in. We had someone bless us with plane tickets. And, another couple blessed us with funds to cover the rental car and food not covered in the cost of assessment. This last week has been full of God’s grace and blessings. I shouldn’t be surprised after all these years watching God supply, but still I am amazed when He moves on our behalf.
I want to thank each of you for keeping us in your prayers. I am grateful for each of you. I also ask that you continue to pray for us. We need to be covered with as much prayer as possible. This is a large undertaking. We do not take it lightly.
I do also ask that you prayerfully consider supporting us financially. We still need to raise some of our own support for this church plant. We are required to raise funds on our own. If you would like to speak with us concerning this we would love to talk to you. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have. We would be honored to have your support. This could be in the form of a monthly, quarterly or one time pledge. And, if you know of others who have a heart for reaching people for Christ and church planting, we would love to speak with them and let them know what we are doing.
Again, I thank you all for your prayers. They mean so much to us. We can not achieve what God has called us to do without your prayers.
We revived our assessment package this week and have been working on it all week long. It included a spiritual gifts test, life questionnaire and two psychological tests. (I failed the psych. test - go figure).
The money for assessment is almost all in. We had someone bless us with plane tickets. And, another couple blessed us with funds to cover the rental car and food not covered in the cost of assessment. This last week has been full of God’s grace and blessings. I shouldn’t be surprised after all these years watching God supply, but still I am amazed when He moves on our behalf.
I want to thank each of you for keeping us in your prayers. I am grateful for each of you. I also ask that you continue to pray for us. We need to be covered with as much prayer as possible. This is a large undertaking. We do not take it lightly.
I do also ask that you prayerfully consider supporting us financially. We still need to raise some of our own support for this church plant. We are required to raise funds on our own. If you would like to speak with us concerning this we would love to talk to you. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have. We would be honored to have your support. This could be in the form of a monthly, quarterly or one time pledge. And, if you know of others who have a heart for reaching people for Christ and church planting, we would love to speak with them and let them know what we are doing.
Again, I thank you all for your prayers. They mean so much to us. We can not achieve what God has called us to do without your prayers.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Make sure your pet is covered
I saw this and knew I had to post it. It is one of the funniest things I have seen in a long time.
You’ve committed your life to Jesus. You know you’re saved. But when the Rapture comes what’s to become of your loving pets who are left behind? Eternal Earth-Bound Pets takes that burden off your mind.
We are a group of dedicated animal lovers, and atheists. Each Eternal Earth-Bound Pet representative is a confirmed atheist, and as such will still be here on Earth after you’ve received your reward. Our network of animal activists are committed to step in when you step up to Jesus.
We are currently active in 20 states and growing. Our representatives have been screened to ensure that they are atheists, animal lovers, are moral / ethical with no criminal background, have the ability and desire to rescue your pet and the means to retrieve them and ensure their care for your pet’s natural life.
Our service is plain and simple; our fee structure is reasonable. For $110.00 we will guarantee that should the Rapture occur within ten (10) years of receipt of payment, one pet per residence will be saved. Each additional pet at your residence will be saved for an additional $15.00 fee. A small price to pay for your peace of mind and the health and safety of your four legged friends.
ck it out eternal-earthbound-pets.com/Home_Page.html
You’ve committed your life to Jesus. You know you’re saved. But when the Rapture comes what’s to become of your loving pets who are left behind? Eternal Earth-Bound Pets takes that burden off your mind.
We are a group of dedicated animal lovers, and atheists. Each Eternal Earth-Bound Pet representative is a confirmed atheist, and as such will still be here on Earth after you’ve received your reward. Our network of animal activists are committed to step in when you step up to Jesus.
We are currently active in 20 states and growing. Our representatives have been screened to ensure that they are atheists, animal lovers, are moral / ethical with no criminal background, have the ability and desire to rescue your pet and the means to retrieve them and ensure their care for your pet’s natural life.
Our service is plain and simple; our fee structure is reasonable. For $110.00 we will guarantee that should the Rapture occur within ten (10) years of receipt of payment, one pet per residence will be saved. Each additional pet at your residence will be saved for an additional $15.00 fee. A small price to pay for your peace of mind and the health and safety of your four legged friends.
ck it out eternal-earthbound-pets.com/Home_Page.html
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Blessed be your name
This is my favorite song to sing. I love the lyrics - no matter how life is that day I will still bless His name. Read through these lyrics and see that no matter how good or bad life gets He is still God and promises never to leave your side.
"Blessed be Your name, in the land that is plentiful, where Your streams of abundance flow. Blessed be Your name.
Blessed be Your name, when I’m found in the desert place, though I walk through the wilderness. Blessed be Your name.
Every blessing You pour out I’ll turn back to praise. When the darkness closes in, still I will say:
Blessed be the name of the Lord. Blessed be Your name. Blessed be the name of the Lord. Blessed be Your glorious name.
Blessed be Your name, when the sun’s shining down on me, when the wolrd’s all as it should be, blessed be Your name.
Blessed be Your name, on the road marked with suffering. Though there’s pain in the offereing, blessed be Your name.
You give and take away. You give and take away. My heart will choose to say, Lord blessed be Your name!"
"Blessed be Your name, in the land that is plentiful, where Your streams of abundance flow. Blessed be Your name.
Blessed be Your name, when I’m found in the desert place, though I walk through the wilderness. Blessed be Your name.
Every blessing You pour out I’ll turn back to praise. When the darkness closes in, still I will say:
Blessed be the name of the Lord. Blessed be Your name. Blessed be the name of the Lord. Blessed be Your glorious name.
Blessed be Your name, when the sun’s shining down on me, when the wolrd’s all as it should be, blessed be Your name.
Blessed be Your name, on the road marked with suffering. Though there’s pain in the offereing, blessed be Your name.
You give and take away. You give and take away. My heart will choose to say, Lord blessed be Your name!"
Monday, August 17, 2009
God's love
It is the most powerful force we could encounter. It is the very reason for all that exists. One of my favorite passages "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,
neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." God's love is unstoppable. It reaches past our own twisted lives and makes a broken life new again. Did you get that? There is nothing that we could ever do to stop his love. It is always in pursuit of you. My question for you is, are you convinced of that? I know me, I know the life I have lead and to be honest it has taken me a long time to learn this lesson. Truth is, I still find it hard to believe He loves me. But each day is a new start to learn how much he loves me. It's a new day for you too. Be convinced.
neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." God's love is unstoppable. It reaches past our own twisted lives and makes a broken life new again. Did you get that? There is nothing that we could ever do to stop his love. It is always in pursuit of you. My question for you is, are you convinced of that? I know me, I know the life I have lead and to be honest it has taken me a long time to learn this lesson. Truth is, I still find it hard to believe He loves me. But each day is a new start to learn how much he loves me. It's a new day for you too. Be convinced.
Friday, August 14, 2009
5 Things you don't know about me
1. I was not born in the United States - therefore I didn't choose a life in politics.
2. I have had close to 1,000 stitches - not all at the same time, just throughout my life.
3, I am a very picky eater - but I will eat almost anything.
4. I have been divorced - but now happily married for 11 years.
5. I am prone to depression - I hid it well.
Well, there you have it 5 things you don't know about me and probably don't want to.
2. I have had close to 1,000 stitches - not all at the same time, just throughout my life.
3, I am a very picky eater - but I will eat almost anything.
4. I have been divorced - but now happily married for 11 years.
5. I am prone to depression - I hid it well.
Well, there you have it 5 things you don't know about me and probably don't want to.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
What is Sin? part 2
I wanted to start by saying there is no exhaustive list of sins in the bible and there is no simple answer. I don’t believe sin is an act we can just point out and say there it is. While I do believe there are some sins that can be named, some cannot. Let me give this example: two men give to the local church. One does it from the desire of his heart, the other gives to see if God will pay his bills that week because the preacher said, “if I give He would give back to me”. Both men shared the same act of giving, but one was motivated by greed while the other was motivated by the desire to please God.
Sin is anything that moves us away from God.
Let me end this by saying our goal is to become connected to God so if that is our focus, we don’t have to worry about sin.
Sin is anything that moves us away from God.
Let me end this by saying our goal is to become connected to God so if that is our focus, we don’t have to worry about sin.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
What is Sin?
It is a growing question in our world, people are choosing for themselves what is right and wrong. Is there an absolute right or wrong and if so who decides? Below are some answers to the question given on a blog I found. Read them and tell me what you think. What is sin? Argue the points made or post your own definition.
As an atheist I can only tell you how I personally feel about it, because the only thing atheists have in common is that we don't believe in god.
To me, the philosophy of ethics provides a very good basis for determining the blameworthiness or praiseworthiness of a moral action. And considering the concept of ethics and morality predate Christianity, I think we can agree that one does not have to believe in a god to have morality. Consider Zen Buddhists, who do not believe in a god but probably come closer to being "Christlike" than any Judeo-Christian I can think of.
what if evil came first? like what if incest is an example here. that as animals, like 6 million years ago, we surely committed it. and then it is also quite evil, in and of itself, because it produces monstrous unusable mutations. of course a dog or a cat will mate with its littermates and parents if you dont intervene. so, evil is like a concept uniquely defined by humans. an artificial construct. that comes after the actual fact of it. so i think it exists, physically. just trying real hard to be confusing. the quote i am thinking of is from iris murdoch in Time of the Angels: "what if only evil were real? who could face this." sorry for mangling the quote a bit.
Ck out tomorrows post and I will tell you what I think.
As an atheist I can only tell you how I personally feel about it, because the only thing atheists have in common is that we don't believe in god.
To me, the philosophy of ethics provides a very good basis for determining the blameworthiness or praiseworthiness of a moral action. And considering the concept of ethics and morality predate Christianity, I think we can agree that one does not have to believe in a god to have morality. Consider Zen Buddhists, who do not believe in a god but probably come closer to being "Christlike" than any Judeo-Christian I can think of.
what if evil came first? like what if incest is an example here. that as animals, like 6 million years ago, we surely committed it. and then it is also quite evil, in and of itself, because it produces monstrous unusable mutations. of course a dog or a cat will mate with its littermates and parents if you dont intervene. so, evil is like a concept uniquely defined by humans. an artificial construct. that comes after the actual fact of it. so i think it exists, physically. just trying real hard to be confusing. the quote i am thinking of is from iris murdoch in Time of the Angels: "what if only evil were real? who could face this." sorry for mangling the quote a bit.
Ck out tomorrows post and I will tell you what I think.
Monday, August 10, 2009
His Grace
So much of my life is spent saying I am sorry. I become angered over the little things in life. I become materialistic. I experience lust, greed and jealousy. . I live my life to according to my desires instead of His.
I am also a Christ follower. I am victorious. I am faithful. I am “in Christ”. I am a new person. My old ways are changed.
Paul said “who will rescue me from this body of death?” He also said “there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.”
My journey is to know Jesus more. My journey takes me down paths where I am changing, renewing, dying and living. My Spirit is changing. I am a changed life. Not a perfect life, but a changed one. Thank you Jesus for you GRACE.
I am also a Christ follower. I am victorious. I am faithful. I am “in Christ”. I am a new person. My old ways are changed.
Paul said “who will rescue me from this body of death?” He also said “there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.”
My journey is to know Jesus more. My journey takes me down paths where I am changing, renewing, dying and living. My Spirit is changing. I am a changed life. Not a perfect life, but a changed one. Thank you Jesus for you GRACE.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
How many times do we catch ourselves pointing the finger at someone? I know I do. Even with a mirror we are limited to what we see in ourselves. Our speach is channeled through our "I know what I meant" filter. God teaches us to be careful with pointing the finger at others and start working on ourselves; looking deep within, asking the question, "if someone said that to me how would I feel?". I want to be that person who thinks of others above myself, who loves people the way God loves them, who sees what they meant above what they said. What if we strive to look for the good in everyone we meet? The intent of the heart is always different than the action or speach of our lives.
Friday, August 7, 2009
The weekend
5 things I am looking forward to this weekend
1. Time with the family - Alivia calls it "Family fun time".
2. Two days away from work.
3. Sunday is my cheat day - I get to eat anything I want all day.
4. The begining of football - well almost, at least the titans are playing.
5. Gathering with others to worship God.
What are you looking forward to?
1. Time with the family - Alivia calls it "Family fun time".
2. Two days away from work.
3. Sunday is my cheat day - I get to eat anything I want all day.
4. The begining of football - well almost, at least the titans are playing.
5. Gathering with others to worship God.
What are you looking forward to?
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Go Green
What if the church truly cared for the earth like God intended. The church should be the leading influence on preserving the earth. Instead we refuse to recycle, pick up trash or even support alternative methods of natural resources. This planet is a gift from God. In the story of the great flood, God makes a promise to never destroy the earth by flood again. He makes that promise with three different groups, first with mankind, second with the animal kingdom and thirdly with the earth itself. When you read through the bible you see God’s love for earth. As far as we know, earth is the only planet that is able and currently sustaining life. What if we cared for the earth the way God does? Most people believe the earth will be destroyed and we will get a new one so why bother. So let me ask you, if you treat this planet with such distain why should he give us a new one? Not to say he won’t but, should he? Caring for the creation shows respect for the creator. Let’s honor God and his creation. What if we lead the community in earth day? What if we took a Saturday and started picking up trash around the community? What if the local church was the place we took our recyclables? Can you think of other ways?
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Next Step
As promised, I wanted to update everyone on the church plant. We are set to go to assessment on Sept. 14th-17th. Assessment is a week long process of both them getting to know me and me getting to know them. Stadia is one of the leading church planting organizations that do in depth research into each city they are planting. The goals of assessment are to make sure I am ready and to see what city my gifts and personality would best fit.
I would ask that you keep us in your prayers as we take this journey.
I would ask that you keep us in your prayers as we take this journey.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Parental Power
I was having dinner with my father last night. I started telling him I was leaving my profession and planting a church. I had this sick feeling in my stomach and my heart was racing. I was transformed from a 38 year old man into a kid asking daddy for permission. On my way home from dinner I was looking at my own children wondering if I had that same power and would I use it wisely. Children are an incredible gift and parents are empowered to make or break them. “raise a children in the way he/she should go and they will never depart from it” that is a overwhelming task. We as parents are to learn our children and guide them in the way God has made them. If it is the arts, take them to art classes. If sports, then take them to practice. We are charged with the responsibility of teaching them about God, but we are also to guide them in there personality and passions. Let them choose the latter two but guide them in Godly wisdom.
Monday, August 3, 2009
5 truths of leadership
1. Keep the Vision Clear - Vision casting! It is absolutely critical toward helping a church reach its redemptive potential, and every leader has to learn how to do it.
2. Get People Engaged - Get people to serve in areas of ministry to fulfill the vision that God has given you. “I have never seen a church reach its full redemptive potential unless there were fired-up teams doing the work of God.” Volunteerism at its best!
3. Create Great Services - “I’ve never seen a church go from strength to strength and reach its full redemptive potential unless some team inside that church decided that their part of God’s vision was to put on really, really good services - the best they are capable of putting on.”
4. Raise Resources - “Stop being apologetic and realize that it takes money to launch visions. It takes money to feed the hungry and to resource the poor. it takes money to build a children’s ministry. It takes money to have a thriving student ministry in your church.”
5. Pace Yourself for the Long Haul - Self Leadership - “It’s the ability to overcome personal discouragement, to maintain sober-mindedness in crisis, to keep ego at bay at all times, and to stay focused on the life mission.” “Don’t allow yourself to go into peril because you didn’t take the time to regroup, recalibrate, take appropriate time off, retreat spiritually, and refresh your soul.”
2. Get People Engaged - Get people to serve in areas of ministry to fulfill the vision that God has given you. “I have never seen a church reach its full redemptive potential unless there were fired-up teams doing the work of God.” Volunteerism at its best!
3. Create Great Services - “I’ve never seen a church go from strength to strength and reach its full redemptive potential unless some team inside that church decided that their part of God’s vision was to put on really, really good services - the best they are capable of putting on.”
4. Raise Resources - “Stop being apologetic and realize that it takes money to launch visions. It takes money to feed the hungry and to resource the poor. it takes money to build a children’s ministry. It takes money to have a thriving student ministry in your church.”
5. Pace Yourself for the Long Haul - Self Leadership - “It’s the ability to overcome personal discouragement, to maintain sober-mindedness in crisis, to keep ego at bay at all times, and to stay focused on the life mission.” “Don’t allow yourself to go into peril because you didn’t take the time to regroup, recalibrate, take appropriate time off, retreat spiritually, and refresh your soul.”
Saturday, August 1, 2009
What's real
Authenticity: well I mentioned it last time going hand and hand with being transparent, so it is only fitting I tell you about authenticity. Be real, but what if you are real at being fake. No matter where you go people are fake. No one wants you to see the true person they are on the inside. Fear: fear that you won’t like what you see when you peel back the layers of life and see all the mistakes and pain. Look at Christ: he was real. We read about the pain he had, the sorrow he experienced and joys of his life. An authentic life is dictated by you being you. Jesus never allowed the social standards decide who he ate with or who he hung with. Let me just say be who you are, not what people want you to be.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Clear as glass
Transparency: what is it? Does it mean you open the door to your secret closet and share every skeleton for all to see? I don’t think it is. Transparency is linked to authenticity. They go hand and hand. You can’t have one without the other. People want something real something they can relate to or better yet someone they can relate to. Many use this as a tool they are careful about cracking the door to the closet and hand picking the skeletons they want you to see – that is what they call being transparent. For me, it is more than that. Authentic transparency is simply allowing the door to remain unlocked, if someone wants to see in then let them. If it can help someone else then my life is open for you to see. No secrets no, planed agenda, just plan old run of the mill Christ follower just like you.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Lost
I took this from another blog, tell me what you think??
The other day, I posted something on Twitter and Facebook that got over 90 comments (maybe more by the time this is read), and for the life of me I can’t figure out why. I didn’t really see it as controversial. I have been known to post some pretty bizarre things, and this wasn’t one of them. I just had a thought about the way people that wouldn’t consider themselves Christians might feel when we refer to them as “Lost”. So I posted this:
“Thought for Christians: if we knew anything about the “lost”…Surely we would know enough not to call them “lost”…. Would you like it?”
That’s it. I thought it would get 3 or 4 comments. I really didn’t even think that much of it. When I wrote this, the context of my thinking was pretty much this — If my life mission was to help obese people no longer be obese, then I probably wouldn’t approach them like this:
“Hey Fatso, time to lose the lard!”
It is not that they don’t have a problem with their weight. It is not that I would be selling out and giving them sugar just because they can’t handle the truth. It is not that I don’t believe in nutrition and do everything that I can to re-train them to believe in it as well. It’s just simply the fact that there are better and more efficient ways to communicate to people to get the desired results of weight loss and still allow them to keep their dignity, and in the meantime, I get to be a good guy and not be a jerk.
I was shocked at how many people commented on my post about this subject of “the Lost.” I was depressed for a couple of days. It seemed to me that people were fighting for their right to continue to call these people “lost”.
One of the people that commented on my facebook page is a friend of mine named Rusty. I knew Rusty from a little town in Texas that I lived in for 1 year while I was in the 9th grade. I got reunited with Rusty through facebook, so it has been a long time since we talked. On the comment page, amongst these 90 something comments, I asked Rusty a question for everyone to see.
Rusty, we went to 9th grade together. I was not a Christian then. Did you go to church then? Has the church, with it’s you are lost, attitude ever been attractive to you?
His response:
Back in 9th grade I had already been on 2 missionary trips to villages deep into Mexico. I was a member of a non-denominational church where it was encouraged to speak in tongues and such. But still with their new-life attitude, I still felt the church to be way behind, in the dark-ages. And, most churches I’ve been to since, as well. I cannot … Read More accept most of the church doctrines around here, as their little sets of rules are not only outdated, but until you’ve accepted them, you are considered ‘lost’. I know my Bible front to back, but am still considered lost by a host of local church families, and yes it kind of rubs me the wrong way. Hope this answers your question. Have a great day brother.
I don’t know? Maybe I am missing something? But when you get comments like this:
so what do we call them….”intellects on the fast track to hell”? Satans frequent flyers….Flame throwers……Honestly what should we call them?
Or this:
Well, that is what Jesus called them!
It is no wonder that the family I grew up in didn’t dare go near the front door of a church building unless there was a funeral or a wedding.
Now to be fair, I got some great comments as well. Also, to be fair, when you have conversation on something like a facebook page — there is a lot lost in translation (body language, attitude, humor, etc.). I still think the lesson to learn here, at least for me, is that there needs to be more humility when trying to reach people that are far from God. There also needs to be less paranoia. Less fear that if we change our language and methods, that does not necessarily mean that we are changing the message —- Just because I don’t seize the opportunity to scream “LOST” at someone, doesn’t mean that I am not devoting my entire life to reaching them.
my thoughts on the subject:
Why do we feel the need to insult the very people we are trying to connect with.
The other day, I posted something on Twitter and Facebook that got over 90 comments (maybe more by the time this is read), and for the life of me I can’t figure out why. I didn’t really see it as controversial. I have been known to post some pretty bizarre things, and this wasn’t one of them. I just had a thought about the way people that wouldn’t consider themselves Christians might feel when we refer to them as “Lost”. So I posted this:
“Thought for Christians: if we knew anything about the “lost”…Surely we would know enough not to call them “lost”…. Would you like it?”
That’s it. I thought it would get 3 or 4 comments. I really didn’t even think that much of it. When I wrote this, the context of my thinking was pretty much this — If my life mission was to help obese people no longer be obese, then I probably wouldn’t approach them like this:
“Hey Fatso, time to lose the lard!”
It is not that they don’t have a problem with their weight. It is not that I would be selling out and giving them sugar just because they can’t handle the truth. It is not that I don’t believe in nutrition and do everything that I can to re-train them to believe in it as well. It’s just simply the fact that there are better and more efficient ways to communicate to people to get the desired results of weight loss and still allow them to keep their dignity, and in the meantime, I get to be a good guy and not be a jerk.
I was shocked at how many people commented on my post about this subject of “the Lost.” I was depressed for a couple of days. It seemed to me that people were fighting for their right to continue to call these people “lost”.
One of the people that commented on my facebook page is a friend of mine named Rusty. I knew Rusty from a little town in Texas that I lived in for 1 year while I was in the 9th grade. I got reunited with Rusty through facebook, so it has been a long time since we talked. On the comment page, amongst these 90 something comments, I asked Rusty a question for everyone to see.
Rusty, we went to 9th grade together. I was not a Christian then. Did you go to church then? Has the church, with it’s you are lost, attitude ever been attractive to you?
His response:
Back in 9th grade I had already been on 2 missionary trips to villages deep into Mexico. I was a member of a non-denominational church where it was encouraged to speak in tongues and such. But still with their new-life attitude, I still felt the church to be way behind, in the dark-ages. And, most churches I’ve been to since, as well. I cannot … Read More accept most of the church doctrines around here, as their little sets of rules are not only outdated, but until you’ve accepted them, you are considered ‘lost’. I know my Bible front to back, but am still considered lost by a host of local church families, and yes it kind of rubs me the wrong way. Hope this answers your question. Have a great day brother.
I don’t know? Maybe I am missing something? But when you get comments like this:
so what do we call them….”intellects on the fast track to hell”? Satans frequent flyers….Flame throwers……Honestly what should we call them?
Or this:
Well, that is what Jesus called them!
It is no wonder that the family I grew up in didn’t dare go near the front door of a church building unless there was a funeral or a wedding.
Now to be fair, I got some great comments as well. Also, to be fair, when you have conversation on something like a facebook page — there is a lot lost in translation (body language, attitude, humor, etc.). I still think the lesson to learn here, at least for me, is that there needs to be more humility when trying to reach people that are far from God. There also needs to be less paranoia. Less fear that if we change our language and methods, that does not necessarily mean that we are changing the message —- Just because I don’t seize the opportunity to scream “LOST” at someone, doesn’t mean that I am not devoting my entire life to reaching them.
my thoughts on the subject:
Why do we feel the need to insult the very people we are trying to connect with.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
What did he say?
Christian vs Christ follower. Sermon vs talk. Senior pastor vs lead pastor.
Not sure if you have noticed but there is a shift coming. Church lingo is changing and for the better. Some may say we are selling out or we are heretics. Truth is the English language is evolving (for some that is an evil word) and we need to keep up. Those who grew up in church will have a harder time making the change but remember the change is for those who are not connected to Christ. Think of this, the bible was written in three different languages over thousands of year with one driving point - God loves humanity. If we remember the balance point we won’t argue over semantics.
Not sure if you have noticed but there is a shift coming. Church lingo is changing and for the better. Some may say we are selling out or we are heretics. Truth is the English language is evolving (for some that is an evil word) and we need to keep up. Those who grew up in church will have a harder time making the change but remember the change is for those who are not connected to Christ. Think of this, the bible was written in three different languages over thousands of year with one driving point - God loves humanity. If we remember the balance point we won’t argue over semantics.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
The vision
Making a difference. Isn’t that the vision of every new church plant. Well, I am no different. So, what is different? I want to change not only our spiritual lives but our physical and emotional lives. What if the church was the leading force in making this earth greener? What if Christ followers were known for their love for one another and not hypocrisy? What if Christ followers could just say “I don’t know but, we can find the answer together”? What if we worked with the world instead of against it? I know what you are thinking sounds great but you are just one person. You are right but if you believe and stand with me we become and team. One of the most overlook aspects of the story about the tower of Babel is the concept God shares “The LORD said, "If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them”. This vision is not mine it is ours and together we can make a difference.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Church planting
Have you ever wandered what it would be like to see a church start from scratch? Well, here is your chance. Below is straight out of my journal.
April 26,2009
Just came home from the conference. There are very few times in my life I have had a God experience. You know the one where after that moment your whole life has changed, well it happened to me. I have told God I was done with any ministry and I would only do what he asked of me. No more trying to make it happen. People have asked me for the last couple of years if I was interested in full-time ministry or being a pastor. I have had the same answer from day one. If God speaks to me in a burning bush I would listen. Well, the last day of the conference there was a speaker by the name of Francis Chan, pastor of cornerstone church in CA. he asked people who were interested in planting a church to come forward and he would pray with them. He said that God wanted to reveal his fire, he would have his fire fall on us. I knew I had to go forward I looked at Kerrey and said let’s go. We walked to the front and there a lady met us and as she started to pray I felt something different. She prayed, reveal your fire to them. And no sooner had she finished someone else came up and prayed father let your fire fall on this couple. I knew at that point God wanted to speak. With my head down I cried out “here am I” – in that moment it was if I was Moses standing in front of the blazing bush – here I am, all of me broken laid before you do with me as you wish. That is when I heard his voice. Not as some thunderous voice but it rocked me in my inmost core I knew at that moment I was in the presence of God. At that moment I knew he wanted me to plant a church.
It has been three days since that event and I don’t know how to say it any better than something deep inside of me has been awakened. I know what I need to do.
The seed planted, the vision conceived and the journey began.
April 26,2009
Just came home from the conference. There are very few times in my life I have had a God experience. You know the one where after that moment your whole life has changed, well it happened to me. I have told God I was done with any ministry and I would only do what he asked of me. No more trying to make it happen. People have asked me for the last couple of years if I was interested in full-time ministry or being a pastor. I have had the same answer from day one. If God speaks to me in a burning bush I would listen. Well, the last day of the conference there was a speaker by the name of Francis Chan, pastor of cornerstone church in CA. he asked people who were interested in planting a church to come forward and he would pray with them. He said that God wanted to reveal his fire, he would have his fire fall on us. I knew I had to go forward I looked at Kerrey and said let’s go. We walked to the front and there a lady met us and as she started to pray I felt something different. She prayed, reveal your fire to them. And no sooner had she finished someone else came up and prayed father let your fire fall on this couple. I knew at that point God wanted to speak. With my head down I cried out “here am I” – in that moment it was if I was Moses standing in front of the blazing bush – here I am, all of me broken laid before you do with me as you wish. That is when I heard his voice. Not as some thunderous voice but it rocked me in my inmost core I knew at that moment I was in the presence of God. At that moment I knew he wanted me to plant a church.
It has been three days since that event and I don’t know how to say it any better than something deep inside of me has been awakened. I know what I need to do.
The seed planted, the vision conceived and the journey began.
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