Bulletin Article 12.17.06 -- What Have You Done Today?

For well over five years now, reality television shows have dominated the major networks’ primetime lineups. Granted, there are plenty of money-driven, over-hyped, and immoral reality shows that have aired over the recent years. However, there are several which champion “noble” causes: “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” seeks to improve the lives of those in dire circumstances; “The Biggest Loser” helps people help themselves as it relates to losing weight and becoming healthier individuals.

The latter of those shows features a very appropriate theme song, recorded by Heather Small. It asks the seemingly simple question (which is also its title), “What have you done today to make you feel proud?” The brilliance of the song lies in its scope of time: today. Want to be a better parent? What have you done today? Want to improve the lives of your family? What have you done today? Want to change your life? What have you done today? Want to please your Lord? What have you done today? Want to have the inner “peace that passes all understanding?” What have you done today?

Around 2000 years ago, Paul encouraged Christians along this same line of thinking. In his second letter to the church at Corinth, Paul quotes from Isaiah 49:8 where the prophet says, “In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you.” Paul then adds, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (2 Cor. 6:2). The time for Corinth to obey was then. Jesus hadn’t come when Isaiah penned those words, but he had when Paul wrote to Corinth. They needed to come to Him today.

In Ephesians 5:15-16, Paul emphasizes our Christian walk relative to time: “See then that you walk circumspectly (completely), not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Redeem the time, or “make the most of your time.” Paul emphasizes that our lives (“walk” in Ephesians) are filled with choices for good or bad; we must make good choices during the time we know we are granted (the present). We must “turn in” the time we are granted for something; let’s make sure it’s for good.

Let’s briefly ask ourselves if we’ve done anything today (or this year) to make our Lord proud:

What have we done to serve others? The service aspect of Christianity cannot be over-emphasized. Sadly, it’s often under-emphasized. God will treat us as we’ve treated others. The greatest command is to love the Lord with all of our lives; the next one is to love our fellow man as we love ourselves (Matt. 22:36-40). Have we done anything to show that we love others as much as we love ourselves?

What have we done to forgive others? Notice Paul’s words in Ephesians 4:32, “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” We have the charge to forgive others if they wrong us. Do they deserve it? Maybe not. But neither did we. Yet God still forgave our sins through Christ. If we fail to forgive others, we fail to see the grace God grants in our forgiveness. Jesus’ even says that the forgiveness of our sins depends on how we’ve forgiven others (Matt. 6:12, 14-15).

What have we done to include others? One of the negatives (if there are any negatives) to a family-centered congregation like Midway is that it can be difficult for newer members or visitors to feel included. Granted, we all need to do as much as we can to be active. However, those who are active also need to be reaching out as much as they can to encourage those who might feel on the outside. Our Lord’s brother—James—warns against favoritism in James 2:1-10. May we be careful and conscious to always include one another, and therefore encourage one another, along our Christian walks.

May God help us to do something today to make Him proud and help others.

Look at How You've Grown!

It’s probably something we remember all too well: sore cheeks, embarrassing attempts to hide behind our parents, and so on. It probably occurred most often at the holidays, family reunions, weddings, or funerals (although a chance occurrence in Wal-Mart isn’t out of the question). It’s seeing that distant relative or long-lost friend of the family who hasn’t seen you as a kid in a long period of time. They remember you when you were “this little.” And now they’re astonished at how much you’ve grown. Growth is a natural part of our human lives.

Likewise, spiritual growth should be a continual part of our lives as well. Our faith, devotion, and efforts for the Lord need to increase year by year, month by month, and day by day. Jesus tells a familiar parable in Luke 8. We recognize it from Matthew 13 more often, but its recording in Luke is insightful just as well. Notice our Savior’s words:

“A sower when out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell along the path and was trampled underfoot, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell on the rock, and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up with it and choked it. And some fell into good soil and grew and yielded a hundredfold” (Luke 8:5-8).

We often title this parable, “The Parable of the Sower.” More correctly, it probably should be known as “The Parable of the Soils.” The emphasis is on those who “hear the word.” In the verses that follow the parable, Jesus explains the meaning of this earthly story:

• The seed is the word of God (8:11)
• Along the path — those who hear, but the devil comes and takes the word away from their hearts (8:12)
• On the rock — hear the word, receive it with joy, but have no root; they believe for a while, “and in the time of testing fall away” (8:13)
• Among thorns — Those who hear, but as they grow, they are choked by the riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature (8:14)
• Good soil — hear the word, hold on to it with an honest and good heart, and then bear fruit with endurance (8:15)

The logical question we must all ask ourselves is, “Which soil are we?” Have we allowed the word of God to grow within us during the past year? We’ve had wonderful growth from a congregational standpoint this past year. Has it included your spiritual growth? Have you produced fruit from months and years of faithfulness to God, His word, and His work? Or have you dried up because of difficult trials (like the seeds on the rock)? Or have you choked the word with the pursuit of riches and pleasure?

We need to continually reflect upon all the good things our Father has given us. Most of all, he’s given us His word that we might know Him and that we might obey Him unto salvation. A large part of obedience unto salvation is not only remaining faithful, but growing in His sight.

From Jesus’ description of the “good soil,” the seed grew because the soil held on with endurance. It also grew because of an honest and good heart. The result was long-term (not overnight) growth of the plant—and fruit was produced.

We can also see other keys to growth by looking at what didn’t work in the parable. The seed that fell on the rock withered away “because it had no moisture.” Are we trying to water other people’s lives like Apollos did (1 Cor. 3:6)? The seed that was choked died because of the influence of riches and pleasures. Have we set our priorities so that these things won’t hinder our spiritual growth?

As we begin the process of reflecting on the past year, may we look back and see growth in the eyes of God. And no matter our stature of growth in the past year, may we make steps to ensure spiritual growth in the new year and beyond! Have a great week.

Bulletin Article 12.03.06 -- Holiday Stuff

Now that December is here, we as families begin in full-force our usual holiday efforts. We’re all in the process of decorating our homes, purchasing gifts, listening to Christmas carols, and watching those classic holiday movies. As you go about your holiday business, here are two main things to remember.

Christmas Round-Up for Daybreak. As we announced last Sunday, we have the opportunity to help out 14 young people who are associated with Daybreak/DHR. They are from families affected by spousal abuse, and will receive mainly what we are able to gather up for them this holiday season. Before you leave this morning, be sure to check the list of wishes and clothes’ sizes in the foyer (red sheet). Sign or initial by the things you are willing to purchase for this good cause. The deadline for turning in these gifts is Saturday, December 16. Prior to departing for our Progressive Dinner that evening, we will gather all that we’ve collected and take a group picture.

We have the opportunity this holiday season to help those who are less fortunate; we also have the opportunity to emphasize to our young people the importance of helping others.

If you are unable to purchase any of the items on the list, please consider donating cash to this effort. You can give this money to me or my dad (Jeff). We will then carry our young people from Midway to town and buy any remaining items.

There is a decorated box in the foyer for you to drop off items as you purchase them. Thanks for your interest in this effort. We have been blessed tremendously by God and now have this opportunity to share those blessings with others.

A Wonderful Christmas Gift Idea. If you’re struggling with what to purchase someone on your Christmas list, let me make a suggestion: a Bible. I know that may seem like an obvious recommendation from a Youth Minister, but let me offer a more specific suggestion: an English Standard Version Bible.

The English Standard Version (ESV) is a relatively new translation (2001). Normally, as translations go, that’s not the best of signs. However, the committee of over 100 individuals who translated the ESV have produced a reliable, respectful, and readable modern translation.

The ESV utilizes the form equivalence method of translating. This idea essentially emphasizes the importance of a “word-for-word” translation. It holds that the very words of God are important enough to render them as they are found. The other method, dynamic equivalence, emphasizes “thought-for-thought” techniques (NIV, etc.). This obviously is suspect to translator-interpretations more than word-for-word.

As for readability, notice 1 Peter 1:13 in both NKJV and ESV.

NKJV: “Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”

ESV: “Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”

This obviously would make a great gift for your children if you’re still looking for some items. You can get entire ESV Bibles in all sorts of hip colors, textures, and styles for as little as $20-$30. They also have a hardback Children’s Bible for $25 that features maps and illustrations.

For adults, there are also many options to meet your study needs. Personally, I would love to have at some point the ESV on Audio CD’s and the Elastic Strap Journaling Bible. For a comprehensive list of ESV products, visit here. If you need me to help you find a suitable Bible for someone, let me know.

Best wishes as you enjoy this “most wonderful time of the year.” May God help us to help others and depend more on His word.

Bulletin Article 11.26.06 -- Big Lessons from a Little Guy

One of the most beloved “children’s” stories from the Old Testament is that of David and Goliath—found in 1 Samuel 17. What makes this account particularly inspiring is the fact that not only was David smaller than Goliath (for everyone was smaller than the 9 foot-plus giant), he was much younger and far more militarily inexperienced.

As the story unfolds, no one from the Israelite armies was willing to stand up against Goliath, but this young shepherd boy David. In addition to taking this stance on his own, he went without armor or a reputable military weapon. However—because of the unfailing power of God and David’s strength in it—that little shepherd defeated Goliath with one smooth stone that was hurled from a nearby brook. The lessons from this memorable account are no doubt endless. Let’s notice but a few of them together for a moment:

Priorities really do matter. Even among all of the Israelites (God’s people, you know), David was the first one to mention God in the standoff with Goliath. David’s first recorded words conclude with this statement, “For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?” (1 Sam. 17:26). Later before hurling that fatal stone from the sling, David told Goliath, “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied” (1 Sam. 17:45). David shows the source of his confidence: the God of the universe is on his side. More correctly, David had chosen to be on God’s side, and that made the difference. It’s one thing to claim our priorities are in order (as did the Israelites), but it’s another thing to prove it (like David).

You can’t defeat giants if you’re fighting amongst yourselves. When David arrived on the scene, it became clear that unity was not the strength of the Israelite army. Even his own brothers looked down upon him for simply asking questions about the giant before them (1 Sam. 17:28-30). The church has many big battles to fight. Yet, we can’t win them if we don’t commit to being united for the cause of Christ.

Defeating giants inspires others. On several occasions, David’s example paved the way for others—most notably after slaying Goliath. In verse 37, after David pleads with Saul about how God has always been with him, Saul responds with, “Go, and the Lord be with you!” After David killed Goliath with his weapon of Gath destruction (Gath: see verse 23), the men of the armies of Israel begin to fight—successfully even—against the feared Philistines (1 Sam. 17:52-53). The courage of David not only led to personal victory, but also to the victory of his brothers and fellow-citizens. When you and I do great things in this life, we inspire other Christians as well...what a marvelous opportunity!

I remember being fascinated with this story as a young boy, and there were probably many reasons for such. Today, however, I am inspired so much by David’s actions because I am in a very similar situation as a young minister. There are no doubt people that think I’m incapable because of my age, inexperience, or any of a long list of offenses. Thankfully, David shows that I can be successful against whatever giants may challenge me. What’s better is that David proves that the power and potential to defeat giants isn’t created or conjured up within me, but it already exists in the Ruler of our universe. My task is to cling to Him in order to defeat the giants of sin, negativity, discouragement, apathy, or inactivity.

Timothy was also in a very similar situation as a young preacher in Ephesus. Notice Paul’s specific advice to him: “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers and example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity...practice these things, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers” (1 Timothy 4:12-16).

David and Timothy set wonderful examples for us all...may we always rely upon the power Lord as we try to defeat giants!

Have a great week as school resumes!

Bulletin Article 11.19.06 -- Spiritual Thanksgiving

There are many prominent thoughts that fill our mind during this time of year. Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to express our thanks to God and before others for the countless blessings we have received. It is comforting to know that we have Someone to thank on this holiday for life, freedom, family, financial standing, food, shelter, and so on. I shudder to think of who atheists stop to thank on this holiday.

One of the things that makes giving thanks for our blessings so poignant is that we as Christians understand that we don’t deserve any of them. They are truly blessings. When we are reminded of how our sin hung Jesus on the cross, we are reminded of how unworthy we are to share in God’s love. But He still sends it our way nonetheless. Most notably, we as Christians should always be thankful and appreciative to God for giving us salvation through Christ.

A familiar event in Luke 17 reminds us of how thankful we should be:

“On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices, saying, ‘Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.’ When he saw them he said to them, ‘Go and show yourselves to the priests.’ And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus answered, ‘Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?’ And he said to him, ‘Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well’” (Luke 17:11-19).

Ultimately through the sacrifice of Christ’s life on the cross and His subsequent resurrection, we have been given the supreme gift of salvation from sin. We—just as those lepers were healed from horrible disease—have been healed from the deadly spiritual disease of sin.

There is so for which we should be thankful for year ‘round. As we think about those things, may we always be reminded of what God has given us on the cross. Thanks be to God who has given us the gift of His Son.

O Thou whose bounty fills my cup,
With every blessing meet!
I give Thee thanks for every drop—
The bitter and the sweet.

I praise Thee for the desert road,
And for the riverside;
For all Thy goodness hath bestowed,
And all Thy grace denied.

I thank Thee for both smile and frown,
And for the gain and loss;
I praise Thee for the future crown
And for the present cross.

I thank Thee for both wings of love
Which stirred my worldly nest;
And for the stormy clouds which drove
Me, trembling, to Thy breast.

I bless Thee for the glad increase,
And for the waning joy;
And for this strange, this settled peace
Which nothing can destroy.

Bulletin Article 11.12.06 -- The Blessing of Technology

Last week, we noticed one major thought that we should remember when it comes to technological advances. Technology should never serve as a replacement for true learning and growth—if anything, it should cause an increase in spiritual growth. As easy of a principle as that is to understand, it’s just as difficult to practice in our world today.

Technology, however, is a major blessing—even when it comes to our Christian responsibilities. The fact is that the 21st century is very much a technologically-driven century. If we as the church are going to substantially reach 21st century citizens with the 1st century message, we will likely need to implement the Truth with the aid of certain technological options.

We at Midway have already experienced many blessings from various forms of technology: computers (bulletins, research, etc.), presentation projectors (songs, lessons, announcements), audio recording devices, hearing-improvement devices, microphones, central heating/cooling, lighting, and the list could go on.

The biggest way that we can proclaim Christ to many in current generations is through the internet. The elders here at Midway have committed to having an online presence. Through the work of EvenPar Solutions in Birmingham, our official website will be “live” very soon. We’re blessed to have elders who know the importance of not only having a presence on the internet, but in having it serve important purposes. We look forward to announcing more about this in coming weeks as the work is completed on this wonderful opportunity.

Additionally, through the internet, Christians can be champions of communication. For those who are actively on their computers, with e-mail, instant messaging, web 2.0 sites, and blogs, there are no excuses for not being able to communicate to one another.

One site that I recently found out about is <www.digitalbiblestudy.com>. It is a work of the Avondale Church of Christ outside of Atlanta. In addition to constant feeds of material, there are almost 700 different video and audio Bible lessons available for instant viewing and listening. There are numerous lessons from such speakers as Dan Jenkins, Jerry Jenkins, Jim Dearman, Johnny Ramsey, Dave Miller, Phil Sanders, and many more. I found two episodes of “The Truth in Love” that featured Thomas B. Warren. He discussed some amazing evidences for the existence of God as our creator. There is some very rich and useful information in those two lessons alone. Be sure to check out this wonderful opportunity for Bible study.

In working with our young people, we can continually expose them to opportunities for growth on the computer and internet. In addition to helpful sites such as the one in the above paragraph, we can offer them specific information and updates to help them in their walks with Christ. In conjunction with our soon-to-be-launched Midway church website, we’ve created a site using a blog format for our youth. Since most of the kids who are actively on the internet are in the older age groups, it contains especially pertinent information for our Connect (7th-12th) group. The blog can be found at: <connect2theworld.blogspot.com>. I hope this can be of help with communication not only to young people, but also to you parents who are eager to help your children grow in the Lord.

“For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them. To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.”
1 Corinthians 9:19-23

Thanks to the Lord for opening up these opportunities to spread the good news of His son. Thanks to those who use these and support their use in the world today. God bless you this week!

Childhood Memory Location Suffers Burnout

One of those places from my childhood memories--Gatorland in Orlando, Florida--suffered a major fire on Monday.

That massive gator head that is on fire above had a little 5 year old playing on it some 18 years ago. They're reporting that 4 animals are feared dead. Maybe the loss will not escalate.

...glad we got some pictures there...good mental note for future fun times: take pictures!

11.05.06 Bulletin Article -- The Trouble with Technology

It’s great to have everyone here this morning for our Friends & Family Day! We’re excited to have Brother Dennis Jones with us. We’re glad you’re here and we look forward to spending time with you on this fine Lord’s day!

If you’ve been watching news on television throughout the years, you’ve probably noticed a distinct difference between now and the “way it used to be.” Many years ago, Americans would watch Walter Cronkite and others in order to find out the news. I used to watch Sportscenter on ESPN to find out sports scores and happenings. Now, thanks to the Internet and 24-hour news channels, the designed “news” programs play a much different role. Unfortunately, our trusted news sources are almost forced to mix opinions with fact in order to be able to deliver something that will be entertaining to audiences. I suppose this is one reason Americans have become so aware of so-called “media biases.” Because we can get news on the Internet or continual news TV channels as soon as it happens, we have lessened the importance of the traditional half-hour news program (or newspaper, for that matter).

As Christians, we have benefited greatly from technology as well. We have an almost endless supply of articles, commentaries, and other Biblical resources literally at our fingertips. Additionally, there are numerous ways in which we can pull up specific Bible verses and passages (Bible Gateway is a good one). This is an amazing way to use technology to help us in our pursuit of Biblical knowledge. However, if we replace dedicated time and diligent effort for easy-to-use digital offerings, we will miss out on vital Scriptural lessons. May we always value the complete Word of God.

“Yet among the mature we do impart wisdom, although it is not a wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are doomed to pass away. But we impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God, which God decreed before the ages of glory. None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But, as it is written, ‘What no eye has seen, nor ear has heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him’—these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.
(1 Corinthians 2:6-10, ESV)

Once again, it’s great to see you on our Friends & Family Day! We hope you have a wonderful day and a great week in service to Him!

Bulletin Article 10.29.06 -- This Kind of Love

One of my favorite—if not my favorite—musical artists is Sister Hazel out of Jacksonville, Florida. They recently released their newest album. One of the things that characterizes their songs is creative and thoughtful lyrics. One of their songs on this newest album is entitled, “This Kind of Love.” It is my assumption that it was written with a spouse in mind and speaking of romantic love. However, it is very easy to think about it in terms of the spiritual love offered to us by our Savior. Notice the words of “This Kind of Love:”

This kind of love makes me feel ten feet tall,
It makes all my problems fall.
This kind of trust helps me to hold the line,
I’ll be there every time.

This kind of hope is what I try to find
And now I can’t deny I believe
This kind of faith is so unshakeable
It’s unmistakable
It’s bigger than me

Your love can move a mountain
It makes my world go round
It’s always there to find me
I’m so lucky that I found…

This kind of love it’s what I dreamed about
It fills me up
It leaves no doubt
This kind of love it’s why I’m standing here
It’s something that we can share
I can’t get enough of this kind of love.

The first thing I think about when I hear these words is my wife, Amanda. I’m the lucky one that I’ve found “this kind of love.” There’s no doubt that I am who I am largely because of how she’s made me better.

Additionally, I’m reminded of the love of Christ. His love gives us great confidence (Eph. 3:12). It helps to ease our problems (Rom. 8:28). It helps us to stand strong (2 Tim. 4:17). His love is true and sure (John 13:1). His love is bigger than us (2 Cor. 5:14). We can do great things through his love (Rom. 8:37). It should dominate our lives (Eph. 5:2). We are lucky to have found a savior (1 John 3:16). It’s something that we need to share (John 13:34). We can never get enough of the love of Christ (Song 8:7).

Let’s review what Paul said in Romans 8 about the love of Christ:

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?
Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?
As it is written, “For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.”
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Hope everyone has a wonderful week. Hope you have found “this kind of love” in Christ.

300,000,000 +/-

The US Census Bureau is officially recognizing the US population as 300,000,000 (three-hundred million). Wow. Big number. We recognized 200,000,000 back in 1967; looking into the future, it looks like it will be less than 40 years when we hit 400,000,000. Here is how the bureau keeps track of the population in between the census, which they conduct every 10-years:

"The bureau has a 'population clock' that estimates a birth every seven seconds, a death every 13 seconds and a new immigrant every 31 seconds. Add it together and you get one new American every 11 seconds." (From My Way News )

Therefore, roughly every 11 seconds, a new American soul is brought into the world. If we as the church need a reminder of the large evangelistic task at hand, this is most certainly a good one. We are constantly reminded of the freedom that enables us to "worship freely without the fear of outside persecution." That same freedom also allows us to evangelize to those around us. May we feel the urgency to reach lost Americans with the gospel of Jesus Christ...all 300,000,000 of them.

ALCS & NLCS: Year of the Hats

In the Major League Baseball playoffs this year, the "final four" teams participate in the National and American League Championship Series, respectively. This year, to me at least, the four teams remaining (yeah...this is a little late, Detroit's already eliminated Oakland in the AL) share a common thread: cool hats. This just might be the best year for hats in the history of the Championship Series. Now for the hats:

National League:


New York Mets (Home Blue)



versus

St. Louis Cardinals (Home)





American League:


Detroit Tigers (Road)



versus

Oakland Athletics (Road)




Baseball hats have always fascinated me. Simplicity is a must...identity is crucial. In a rare crossing of stars, this postseason has arranged four highly-respectable lids for fans to enjoy. May the best teams (or hats) prevail...

Nearly News 09.29.06

Told you so...last month

Insert Mike Tyson joke here:___________

Brings new light to the phrase, "He could sell a car to a three-year old..."

As long as 7-11 don't drop ICEE as their official slushie provider.

Immigration...in reverse

What's the over/under for time that it will take this guy to make a map of how to get out of prison?

Fact: Too many people are having babies that shouldn't be. Proof: Pot to toddler.

Maybe reasons like this are why Jesus walked everywhere He went...

The world's deadliest teddy bear?

Can you give me a hand?

Here comes the Tide...I mean bride. (This dude is a sucker. Okay, sure you get married at BDS, wonderful. If they're "hard-core" Bama fans, does he realize every 6 years he'll have to choose Anniversary verses 'Bama game? There are 12 games a year...that gives you 40 more weekends on which to get married.) Congrats, though...

On a serious note: If this doesn't make you feel small in the shadow of a Creator, not much will.

New Look, Same Great Taste

My literary fascinations, for what they're worth, have always drawn me to the common marketing phrase "New Look, Same Great Taste." It's a pretty sound tagline for products that have underwent a facelift. It's the manufacturer's way of saying, "notice our new pretty packaging, but don't get scared that we might have changed what's inside." I've seen it on Pepsi packaging, bread bags, and the box of Key Lime pie I raided from the office fridge just a few hours ago. The other night, however, as Amanda and I were buying groceries, I noticed that our regular Apple Juice brand had changed their bottle design. I looked and there was no "New Look, Same Great Taste" sticker. Almost immediately, I got a little worried it might taste differently (even though it's kinda hard to change the apple juice 'formula'). Isn't that almost unfair to that company? As a consumer, I've grown so used to having a disclaimer that says nothing has changed about a product that I question the inside simply on the changes made on the outside.

Spiritual applications?

So many of us are quick to judge when congregations make visible changes. If a congregation of the Lord's church plans a building project, buys new songbooks, adds a basketball goal outside, gets a bigger church bus, and anything else similar, we begin to wonder "have they turned liberal?" We almost act as if the Lord's money can't be used to make the Lord's work more efficient. Changes and improvements must be made throughout time to continue to carry out the Lord's mission of seeking and saving the lost (Luke 19:10). (As a caveat, though, the changes and improvements congregations make should not keep them from looking like the New Testament church, though.)

However, we must not be so quick to change things that we negate the good of what's inside. I assume Paul knew the importance of good public speaking skills, yet he said that he didn't desire to go to the Corinthians with "excellence of speech" because he didn't want anything--even his speech--to overshadow the cross. Just as brethren shouldn't be judgemental based on outward and opinion-based changes, other brethren shouldn't make changes at the cost of Truth. There is only one way of carrying out the Lord's work to the world: preaching and teaching the Truth (Acts 8:4); there are many methods, however, that facilitate this goal. The method (man's choices) must never take precedence over the Way (Lord's will). We shouldn't take more time and spend more money on the "packaging" than we do on the "gift" itself.

As the church, we have a responsibility to study, proclaim, and hold on to the Truth of the gospel. In carrying that gospel to the world, it can be very easy to improve our "look" at the expense of our "taste." May we never deprive the world of the taste it needs the most...the Bread of Life.

Nearly News 09.21.06

You gotta love the future of North American commerce

The most important word of this article is the second one.

This breakthrough is creepy if you ask me.

I'm guessing it's still not going to be funny.

If you're gonna die...

A whole new meaning to "called by God."

News NOT Reported by Katie Couric

A 'Columbine' game? No, that won't inspire anyone toward imitation...

See, it's not just Youth Ministers telling you that you can't have fun. Hip-hop and sex connection...

Youngsters 'addicted to mobile phones'...you think?

From the "Oops" file:
Sorry princess...
When you play with electricity...
It sounded like a good idea 5 years ago...
It sounded like a good idea, part two

This wacko got a rise out of 2 billion people's spam filters...

This happened to me one time...then my alarm clock ended it all...

Where I Was & Reflections (9/11)

I know I will be able to tell people for the years "where I was on Sept. 11, 2001" just like our parents and grandparents have been doing for the Kennedy Assassination. Here--as briefly as I can--I'll outline where I was and what I did. I'll close with some reflections pertinent to the day and to my situation.

7:30ish A.M. (CDT)
I wake up from bed and for the first time all year, I turn on the TV to NBC's Today. I guess it was to help me wake up better. I go take a shower and as I come back from the shower, I hear Matt Lauer talking about a plane that has hit the WTC. I think something along the lines of "that's not good" but I quickly get ready to meet Amanda at breakfast. As I'm putting on my sandals to leave, I'm putting them on directly in front of the TV. And then the second plane hits the other tower; Lauer confirms that a second plane has struck the tower and he concludes what we were already thinking "This is obviously not a random event anymore."

8:15ish A.M.
I'm late meeting Amanda for breakfast (which is not unusual for me); I tell her what all has happened. We eat and try to absorb as much of the implications as we can. She goes to class, I go back to the dorm. I go to one of the four-man rooms on our floor to see if my friends have heard; only one of them was awake and was in the shower, so I turn on their TV for them. As we sit watching the events, the first tower falls (which was the second one struck). Awe. Inspiring. I watch in their room until Greek class at 9:30.

9:30ish A.M.
I go to Greek class and there is already a TV in the room and of course coverage of the events is showing. The other tower falls while we watch and one classmate slams his hand to the table in anger. Dr. Flatt calmly and respectfully asks us to turn it off for a moment so that we can have class. The first vocabulary word in our daily "treat" (quiz) is the Greek word for "peace." Very thoughtful teacher; no different on this momentous day.


10:30 A.M.
Daily chapel. Dr. Steve Johnson had already put together a prayer and scripture service with thoughts reflecting on the horrible events of the day. I know there were several specific prayers offered: for the vicitims and their families, for our nation, and for the enemies. Probably the best chapel during my time at FHU.



Reflections:

(1) Why was I so eager to tell Amanda, my friends, and others the bad news if they hadn't heard yet? I would be much more successful in teaching others if I carried the good news with the same urgency I carried the bad news on that day.

(2) Some of the most touching moments of that day involved patriotic stances. "United we stand" was a regular phrase of comfort. In thinking about the political climate since 9/11, I sometimes wonder if we ever were united, even on that horrible day. Maybe we all agreed that we shouldn't dishonor those who unknowingly or knowingly gave their lives by bickering and drawing political lines, but I think we remained divided because we were divided before and have been since. One event--even as horrible as it was--can't cause us to agree on political, philosophical, ideological, or moral divides. The smoke of that day covered much more than
the streets of New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania.

(3) The only way we can acheive true peace--worldwide, nationwide, or otherwise--is through Christ. We've grown so used to hearing that idea that we forget how true it is. The only way to solve the problem highlighted in #2 above is to address the problem in #1. Christ is the answer; we must do our part to get Him to those who need Him.

...And they will know we are _____________ by our _____________

Went to Wal-Mart last week. Went to get stuff to organize my office more efficiently. While I was looking in the school/office supply section, a dear elderly lady asked me a rather simple question, "Do you work here?"

I was taken back somewhat and then kindly responded, "No ma'am, I don't. I'm sorry." My thoughts about that brief incident revolve somehow around the following idea: it should be easy to identify who works at Wal-Mart (or any other place).

I assume that the manager(s) of our local Wal-Mart expect certain things of its employees. They need them to be visible. This is very likely why Wal-Mart employees wear those easily-identifiable blue vests (some higher-ups wear red I think). Additionally, I would guess that Wal-Mart employees need to know what they are doing. A health and beauty aids associate needs to know about the products in her section. A sporting goods associate needs to be familiar with the items in his section. Third, I would think it's a requirement that employees be present. When consumers need assistance, they need to be able to easily find the counsel of a paid employee (as in office supplies). Finally, employees probably need to use all of the above to offer true helpfulness in a given situation. They can do price checks; they can make recommendations based on the needs of the consumer; they can expound upon the different qualities of products under consideration; they can locate hard-to-find products.

Wal-Mart aside, aren't certain things expected of us as workers in the Vineyard of the Lord? Don't we need to be visible? I would feel horrible about my spiritual condition if someone asked me, "Are you a Christian?" God expects for us to be known as His followers (1 Thess. 1:2-7, et al.) . We don't have to wear distinguishing apparel (although our apparel should reflect Christ) to let our lights shine so that others see our Father (Matt. 5:16). Secondly, like Wal-Mart employees, we need to know about our "product." (Our mission is far too serious to casually call it a "product," but it's for sake of application.) Jesus said we would be recognizable as His disciples by our love for one another (Jn. 13:35). That means we need to do things in a loving manner. However, it also means that we need to know what people need: the gospel. Simply sharing feelings of love isn't sharing true love. We must know the depths of God's word (Heb. 5:12-14); we must be capable of answering questions to our faith (1 Pet. 3:15). Thirdly, we need to be present to those in need. Jesus left His disciples in the world (including us) precisely so that we can reach the world in need (Jn. 17:15-18). Finally, we as Christians need to do what it takes to offer to the world what it needs the most: Christ. In spite of obstacles that could stand in the way; in spite of fear of failure; in spite of rejection; in spite of __________ we need to be selling the good news of Christ. We need to show how precious salvation is a free gift; we also need to emphasize the high cost of discipleship that comes with accepting that gift.

May God bless us all to seize every opportunity to explain who we work for.

'Survivor' Race Issue: The only thing worse than Political Correctness...

I am somewhat a fan of CBS's "reality show" 'Survivor.' Over the past several seasons--even though not nearly as good as the first couple of seasons--I have regularly watched and rooted for various contestants stranded in the middle of nowhere coniving for a chance at a million dollars. Granted, the show is filled with ideas that should be removed of Christians: materialism, deception, immodesty, etc. Now, not necessarily uncalculatedly, CBS is in the middle of a "race controversy" because of its long-running and ground-breaking drama. Producers decided to divide the original 'Survivor' participants for this season (set in the Cook Islands) into tribes by race: 5 white, 5 black, 5 Asian, and 5 Latino. See articles addressing the news and reaction.

This gripes me for several reasons, mainly that media outlets are so caught up in getting a rise out of people (like me) that they forget to do the very thing they pledge to do: report the truth. Notice, if you will, the following reasons critics' positions are off-base:

1.) It was a decision based on criticisms in the past. Show host Jeff Probst claims the decision was made in response to previous complaints that the show wasn't racially balanced enough. Go figure, they make a decision to please the left and it offends them.

2.) IT'S ALREADY BEEN TAPED. The time to make a fuss out of the issue was before it was taped over the summer, not right before it airs (which coincidentally might raise ratings). They can't change how they divided the teams because it's all taken place already except for the revelation of the $1,000,000 winner. Too late to fix it, sorry.

3.) It's not a permanent decision. Yes, it's already been taped; no, it won't last. Mark it down. Now. I know I'm right. No more than 3 weeks into the season, the tribes won't be divided by race any longer. After 1-3 tribal councils as the 'racial tribes,' they will almost invariably merge into 2 or 3 (probably two) larger tribes. It won't be an issue anymore when we get to October because blacks, whites, asians, and latinos will be happily intermixed and facing off against another tribe of blacks, whites, asians, and latinos.

4.) Most importantly, it's inconsistent to be critical of the 'racial' decision. Last season, for Panama: Exile Island, the contestants were divided by gender and age. There were also four tribes: young men, older men, young women, older women. I didn't hear anyone griping about gender and/or age discrimination. Couldn't they have said, "Having a team of all women leaves them at a disadvantage" or "divisions shoudln't be made by something as unavoidable as age"? I'm still baffled by the state of race relations in the United States. Things aren't perfect; I'm not sure they can be. Here is an example that we are far from where we should be, on both sides (if there are only two). The only thing worse than politcal correctness is inconsistent political correctness. This is a perfect example.

Let's do our best to be truthful, real, patient, and consistent. Even when it involves something that isn't most of the time: the media.

06.11.06 Bulletin Article -- Truth in Labeling

It certainly has been a great past week. Our Homecoming and Gospel Meeting were certainly successful from a spiritual perspective; the Word was proclaimed, hearts were encouraged, and bonds were strengthened. The Youth Group also had a tremendous week: a wonderful Saturday with a Smile on the 3rd and then the Connect Summer Kick-Off Lock-In on the 4th-5th (with a trip to Winfield for a singing thrown in). It was also a noteworthy week for politics. The Primary Elections took place this past week. On a good note, Alabamians overwhelmingly supported a ban of same-sex marriage...Lord willing, that will continue to have success as it passes through our legal system.

One thing that traditionally accompanies elections is mudslinging. Because this was a primary election, people simply couldn’t vote across party lines but had to make decisions within their respective parties. Therefore, candidates were fighting over who was the most “conservative/progressive/etc.” The abundance of commercials and advertisements emphasizing this practice got me to thinking about labels.

It’s sad to say that even within the church there are constant battles over labeling. Almost all labels that we might use to describe congregations, preachers, or schools are technically relative terms. The worst terms we can use are the ones that are mainly relative to our position. We are probably most familiar with the terms “conservative” and “liberal.” I find it disturbing that I, for example, would be considered “conservative” by many brethren and yet would be considered “liberal” by many brethren also. The point is that if we depend on labels, we often fail to recognize the importance of Truth. Notice what some New Testament passages say about what we are to cling to instead of man-made labels:

“Follow the pattern of sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you” 2 Timothy 1:13. Paul not only says that there is a pattern, but he says to follow the pattern of sound words—or words that are “healthy.”

Later, Paul would tell Timothy the importance of the scriptures in the lives of men: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work” 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Not only do the scriptures come straight from God, but notice what they do: teach, reprove (rebuke), correct, and train so that we as Christians can be completely equipped (ready) for all good works. Adhering to Truth demands that we adhere to the source of Truth—the Word of God.

In Titus 2:1, Paul said, “But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine.” Paul didn’t say, “teach what most brethren would consider conservative.” He didn’t even say, “teach what’s always been taught here.”

There is a single standard of absolute truth. We are to abide by it; we are to determine the faithfulness of others by it (not wrongful judging, though); we are to teach it; we are to protect it.

Truth is not conservative, liberal, progressive, traditional, etc. Truth is Biblical, righteous, sound, and holy. May we always remember the Truth and do our absolute best to make sure others know it and follow it. God bless with another wonderful week in His service.

06.04.06 Bulletin Article -- Summer Strengthening

Alas...school is out for our student-aged young people. One result of the ending of the school year is increased activities of the Youth Group. Here at Midway, there are many opportunities to serve others and grow within during the summer months. Generally, children have more time (and energy) to commit to activities with their Youth Group during the summer. With this in mind, I want us to look at some scriptural suggestions for making the most out of our summers.

DO as much as you can. One of Satan’s most effective methods of “catching” Christians is inactivity. This is why the writers of the New Testament letters encouraged their audiences to be active. Paul encouraged brethren to “be strong” (strength comes from “working out”) and to “rejoice.” Peter continually persuaded Christians to “grow,” a term which necessarily involves action. John stressed the Christian’s “walk,” another term that is inseparable from action. As 21st Century Christians, we too must be active. In order to grow into strong Christians and avoid Satan’s snares, we must be actively godly...even during the summer months.

DON’T get burnt out. One of the dangers of “doing” all the time is burn out. Youth ministers and preachers alike are cautioned not to do too much so as to be ineffective in the Lord’s work. If you really are sick...it’s okay to not do something. If you really are exhausted…the Lord understands. The good you attempt to accomplish can’t occur if you’re unable to function. Don’t get me wrong, the Lord wants us all active; trust me, though, he wants us effective (Gal. 6:9).

DO spend as much time with one another as possible. Spending time with other young people who want to do what’s right is a wonderful way to strengthen one’s spirituality (Ecc. 4:9-12). Having Christian accountability is an immeasurable blessing handed down from God. Some Christians scoff at the idea of young people and families going to Six Flags, etc. However, those opportunities can build strong Biblical fellowship that can be relied upon in the future.

DON’T (knowingly or unknowingly) push others away from Christ. Unfortunately, because of the feelings and perceptions we experience as humans, we can feel left out because of the actions of others. The key to figuring out these sticky situations is consistency. People must be active and around to feel “accepted.” However, others who are active need to be aware of how their actions may cause others to leave the group. Actions can be taken or words can be said that are intentionally hurtful. These things are shameful in and of themselves (James 3:10; 4:11-12). In addition, these hurtful actions can result in that beautiful child of God departing his/her eternal security. May we be aware of how our actions and words make others feel; the Lord expects us to; we certainly want to be treated the same way (Matt. 7:12).

DO spend time with your family. Although most parents still have to work during the summer (and some children do as well), the summer can be a great time for family time. Being together is important for children, moms, dads, and brothers and sisters. Sharing good “QT” (quality time) is the best way for parents to raise their children in the Lord through knowledge, experience, and example (Eph. 6:1-4).

DON’T willingly forsake assemblies of the Lord’s church. God designed worship to praise and honor Him. He designed assembling to encourage and love one another. Both are vitally necessary to our spiritual well-being. Notice that Hebrews 10:19-25 emphasizes both aspects: worship (vs. 19-22) and fellowship through assembling together (vs. 24-25). I know the weather is beautiful and the fish are biting in the cool hours of the day. I know that family vacations are worthwhile (see previous point). However, I also know that it is God who as given us beautiful days, feisty fish, gardens to grow, and magnificent vacation locales. He wants us to enjoy His blessings. He also wants to be praised and thanked for them as well (worship). He also wants us to remember that other Christians need encouragement (fellowship).

DO try to reach out to non-Christians. Summer can be a particularly effective time to bring visitors to church-related functions. Since worship services and similar settings can seem “intimidating” (remember, God designed them to praise Him), fellowship-oriented activities are good opportunities for outreach. Our Midway Day Out on June 17, for example, provides a good opportunity to bring other young people (6th grade and down) and their parents. May we never forget our charge to reach others with the gospel (Matt. 28:19).

DON’T let your spiritual guard down. One of the biggest dangers with summer vacation is to take a spiritual vacation. Since we’re off from school, sometimes we unknowingly take off from Christ. This can happen with “majors” like improper sexual activity, drinking, and drugs. It can also occur with so-called “minors” like entertainment choices (concerts, movies, TV shows, and music) and dress (revealing clothing, sexually suggestive content, etc.). May we always remember our task to be as pure as possible...even during the summer (Eph. 5:1-17).

We look forward to the opportunities presented us in the coming months of the summer of ‘06...may we give them back to Him.

05.28.06 Bulletin Article -- More Graduation Advice

Last week, I began to dispense what I thought were helpful hints to this year’s High School graduates. As a reminder, I want to emphasize that most of my “advice” is probably not worth the paper this is printed on, but I hope it will cause some good thinking about life’s issues, and more importantly a search of the scriptures regarding these varied topics. The most important of advice is the “keep the faith.” Through Bible study, prayer, active church participation, evangelism, and the like, we can ensure our faithfulness before God. In the grand scheme of things, that is most important. May we always take the steps to grow in the faith.

Now more other “advice:”
The financial decisions you make now are important. How you choose to spend your graduation gift money, how you choose to spend your regular paycheck, how you view money will all factor into your financial stability/instability in the future. The biggest factor in how much money you have in the future (that is what you’re thinking about, right?) is how you handle money. If you’ve always spent more than you’ve had, whether it’s $1, $10, or $100, you’ll probably always spend all you have and more even if you’re making $50,000 a year. However, if you’re thrifty with your income, you will probably have a surplus even if you make $10,000 a year. The point is: be responsible now. Only spend what you have now. Your habits and perspectives will carry over into your adult lives.

Learn how to learn. No matter your grades in High School, you likely did very little studying. No matter you’re brilliance, you’ll have to study and have to prove you’re knowledge in college. The key to doing well in college is not memorizing answers to tests, but to learn. Always be willing to learn; even outside the classroom. Chances are, it will pay off inside the classroom. If you learn the material in your classes, you will do fine on the tests. If you merely study for the tests, you may not do fine in the class. Teachers are much more lenient with you if they know you know your stuff and know you’ve put effort into learning. Never be above learning; there’s always something else to discover.

Make your own decisions. Discovering who you are and what is important to you is a very crucial process that you will undergo during the next several years. In doing this, you need to be true to yourself. The Word of God should influence and guide your decisions, of course, but you need to be the wonderful individual God created you to be. If you can serve God and others best as a teacher, even though doctors make more money, be a teacher! If it’s best for you to move away to college to open more doors and deepen your faith, then move away to college (Lord willing a Christian University)! Be sure you make the right decision...be sure it’s yours.

Listen to those who love you. “But I thought you said to make my own decisions?” Yes, but we need to remember that who we are is a combination of our various influences and experiences. Even if you don’t always agree with your parents, grandparents, friends, or (gasp!) Youth Minister, remember that we all love you and want the best for you in your service to God. The words and thoughts offered by all of these are given to help you make the most of your life. Make your own decisions; but don’t completely forsake those who love you.

I suppose this concludes my “advice” for the time being. Keep your faith in God, and keep it strong. Best of luck in all you do.

05.21.06 Bulletin Article -- ...And Don't Forget the Sunscreen

Seven years ago, the British record producer Baz Luhrmann released a single that was a combination of mixed electronic music and Luhrmann’s advice to the Class of ‘99. The title was “Everybody’s Free (To Wear Sunscreen).” If you’ve not heard it, it’s interesting and insightful; you should download it and listen to it on your iPod; or you can listen to it for up to five times for free at Napster.com. I mention this to provide an example of someone giving high school graduates advice for the future. He basically included a “disclaimer” of sorts at the beginning.
It reads: “Wear Sunscreen. If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it. The long term benefits of sunscreen have been proven by scientists whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable than my own meandering experience. I will dispense this advice now.”

I suppose my modification would be: “Keep the Faith. If I could offer you only one tip for the future, faith would be it. The long-long-long-long term benefits of faith have been assured by God (Heb. 11:6) whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable than my own personal experiences.”

Now for my “advice:”

Keys to Faith: Bible Study. Of all the things you’ve already learned and will soon learn in college, the Word of God trumps them all. You will never know what to do in every situation you face. By depending on the Bible though, you can come close. And for those times you still don’t know what to do, you have confidence in the One who knows all (Prov. 3:5-6). To carry this to a practical end, you can make a tremendous investment by using some of your graduation money (I know you’re gonna get a lot, don’t pretend otherwise) to buy a good study Bible. I know you’ll get a nice new Bible from the elders here at Midway, and you should use it and be thankful for it. In addition, you should look into getting a Bible that has study helps and features. My personal recommendation is the Thompson Chain Reference Study Bible. It is available in all of the “major” translations. It’s most helpful study features lead you through the Word instead of telling you what it says. I’m still benefiting from my Study Bible purchase 5 years ago.

Keys to Faith: Prayer. This will cost you no money! You can never pray too much. You will have more questions and face life’s biggest decisions during the next several years than you’ve ever had before. Depend on God more than you ever have before. There’s a reason Paul said, “Pray without ceasing” in 1 Thessalonians 5:17—it’s that important.

Other advice that’s less important: A College Degree is a big deal. No matter what you think now, you need to go to college. More importantly, you need to get a degree. Unless you cheat in some big way (which you shouldn’t do), they really can’t ever take your degree away from you. I know there are good opportunities that do not require a degree. However, I’m guessing that those opportunities would rather have someone with a degree over someone without one.

Experience is a big deal. Although college degrees are priceless, so is experience. In order to have the most success right out of college, you need a two-pronged approach. College learning and hands-on learning. What you do for your summer job can go a long way in helping you get your feet in to doors later. Even if it involves an unpaid internship (it won’t be the end of the world), the pay off in the future will make up for it.

Maximize your time. Staying up late at night when your at this stage in life is a rite of passage. However, you need to take advantage of it. Don’t stay up every evening watching Sportscenter re-runs or playing Playstation. If you stay up past midnight regularly, it needs to be for homework or other important purposes. You can catch up eventually on your sleep, but you’ll never be able to catch up on missed academic opportunities.

Maximize your space. I didn’t finish with my “advice,” so I will conclude next week...

05.14.06 Bulletin Article -- Mother's Day 2006

It’s great to be with everyone on this the Lord’s Day and what has become known in this country as Mother’s Day. It’s especially meaningful that my mother is able to be with us this morning as well. We will never fully understand how grateful we should be to our mothers for all that they have done (and continue to do) in our lives. No matter our ages, our mothers will always hold that special place in our lives because of their love, compassion, discipline, and sacrificial spirit. There’s a fictional story written by an anonymous author about the care that went into creating moms. Let’s notice the story together:

“By the time the Lord made mothers, he was into the sixth day working overtime. An Angel appeared and said "why are you spending so much time on this one?" And the Lord answered and said, "have you read the spec sheet on her? She has to be completely washable, but not plastic; have 200 moveable parts, all replaceable; run on black coffee and leftovers; have a lap that can hold three children at one time and that disappears when she stands up; have a kiss that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart; and have six pairs of hands."

The Angel was astounded at the requirements for this one. "Six pairs of hands! No Way!" said the Angel. The Lord replied, "Oh, it’s not the hands that are the problem. It’s the three pairs of eyes that mothers must have!" "And that’s on the standard model?" the Angel asked. The Lord nodded in agreement, "Yep, one pair of eyes are to see through the closed door as she asks the children what they are doing even though she already knows. Another pair in the back of the head, are to see what she needs to know even though no one thinks she can. And the third pair are here in the front of her head. They are for looking at an errant child and saying that she understands and loves him or her without even saying a single word."

The Angel tried to stop the Lord. "This is too much work for one day. Wait until tomorrow to finish." "But I can’t!" The Lord protested, "I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my own heart. She already heals herself when she is sick AND can feed a family of six on a pound of hamburger and can get a nine year old to stand in the shower."

The Angel moved closer and touched the woman, "But you have made her so soft, Lord." "She is soft," the Lord agreed, "but I have also made her tough. You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish."

"Will she be able to think?" Asked the Angel. The Lord replied, "Not only will she be able to think, she will be able to reason and negotiate."

The Angel then noticed something and reached out and touched the woman’s cheek. "Oops, it looks like you have a leak with this model. I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one." "That’s not a leak." the Lord objected. "That’s a tear!" "What’s the tear for?" asked the Angel. The Lord said, "The tear is her way of expressing her joy, her sorrow, her disappointment, her pain, her loneliness, her grief, and her pride."

The Angel was impressed. "You are a genius, Lord. You thought of everything for this one. You even created the tear!" The Lord looked at the Angel and smiled and said, "I’m afraid you are wrong again, my friend. I created the woman, but she created the tear!"

Thanks be to God for placing or mothers into the life cycle, we have them to thank for much. Happy Mother’s Day.

04.16.06 Bulletin Article -- The Meaning of the Resurrection

Similar to Christmas, Easter is a man-made holiday that has become associated with spiritually events. It is certainly important to remember Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection; that is why Christians are instructed to do so every first day of the week (1 Cor. 11:26; 1 Cor. 16:2). However, even if we rightfully choose to not celebrate today as a “religious holiday” because the world tells us to, it is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the gospel (the good news) of Jesus Christ. Notice the following story that exhibits the simple meaning of the resurrection:

“Jeremy was born with a twisted body and a slow mind. At the age of 12 he was still in second grade, seemingly unable to learn. His teacher, Doris Miller, often became exasperated with him. He would squirm in his seat, drool, and make grunting noises. At other times, he spoke clearly and distinctly, as if a spot of light had penetrated the darkness of his brain. Most of the time, however, Jeremy just irritated his teacher. Then one day, he limped to her desk, dragging his bad leg behind him.

"I love you, Miss Miller," he exclaimed, loud enough for the whole class to hear. The other students snickered, and Doris' face burned red. She stammered, "Wh-why that's very nice, Jeremy. N-now please take your seat."

Spring came, and the children talked excitedly about the coming of Easter. Doris told them the story of Jesus, and then to emphasize the idea of new life springing forth, she gave each of the children a large plastic egg. "Now," she said to them, "I want you to take this home and bring it back tomorrow with something inside that shows new life. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Miss Miller," the children responded enthusiastically-all except for Jeremy. He listened intently; his eyes never left her face. He did not even make his usual noises. Had he understood what she had said about Jesus' death and resurrection? Did he understand the assignment? Perhaps she should call his parents and explain the project to them.

That evening, Doris' kitchen sink stopped up. She called the landlord and waited an hour for him to come by and unclog it. After that, she still had to shop for groceries, iron a blouse, and prepare a vocabulary test for the next day. She completely forgot about phoning Jeremy's parents.

The next morning, 19 children came to school, laughing and talking as they placed their eggs in the large wicker basket on Miss Miller's desk. After they completed their math lesson, it was time to open the eggs. In the first egg, Doris found a flower. "Oh yes, a flower is certainly a sign of new life," she said. "When plants peek through the ground, we know that spring is here." A small girl in the first row waved her arm. "That's my egg, Miss Miller," she called out. The next egg contained a plastic butterfly, which looked very real. Doris held it up. "We all know that a caterpillar changes and grows into a beautiful butterfly. Yes, that's new life, too." Little Judy smiled proudly and said, "Miss Miller, that one is mine." Next, Doris found a rock with moss on it. She explained that moss, too, showed life. Billy spoke up from the back of the classroom, "My daddy helped me," he beamed.

Then Doris opened the fourth egg. She gasped. The egg was empty. Surely it must be Jeremy's she thought, and of course, he did not understand her instructions. If only she had not forgotten to phone his parents. Because she did not want to embarrass him, she quietly set the egg aside and reached for another. Suddenly, Jeremy spoke up. "Miss Miller, aren't you going to talk about my egg?" Flustered, Doris replied, "But Jeremy, your egg is empty." He looked into her eyes and said softly, "Yes, but Jesus' tomb was empty, too."

Time stopped. When she could speak again, Doris asked him, "Do you know why the tomb was empty?" "Oh, yes," Jeremy said, "Jesus was killed and put in there. Then His Father raised Him up."

The recess bell rang. While the children excitedly ran out to the schoolyard, Doris cried. The cold inside her melted completely away.

Three months later, Jeremy died. Those who paid their respects at the mortuary were surprised to see 19 eggs on top of his casket…all of them empty.”

Jesus’ resurrection is the ultimate symbol for new life. Not only did he conquer death, but he ensures new life for God’s children. His death saves us from spiritual death. His resurrection secures our resurrection. Paul’s point in 1 Corinthians 15 was that if the resurrection didn’t happen, we have no hope! Thanks be to God for the resurrection of Jesus; thanks be to God for giving us hope!

04.09.06 Bulletin Article -- Our Level of Commitment

I’m sure many of you have heard the difference between the relationship of the chicken and the pig to breakfast: the chicken is only involved, while the pig is committed. Both the chicken and the pig give something to be a part of breakfast. However, the pig gives himself completely to the cause.

What term characterizes our relationship to Christ and His church? Are we just involved? That means we do stuff. We’re here when we’re supposed to be here. We give something. Or are we fully committed? Not only are we here when we’re supposed to be here, but we’ve given everything to the most important cause on earth.

Paul emphasized Timothy’s level of commitment when he penned the letter we know of as 1 Timothy. In 4:13, Paul says, “Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching.” There are several things of interest in this specific verse and in the broader passage in which it is found. I want us to notice what Paul says about Timothy’s devotion to the public service as a gospel preacher.

The word translated “devote yourself” is the Greek word prosecho. It is used moderately in the New Testament (24 times). Paul’s usage of the word is interesting though. He only uses the word in 1 Timothy and Titus. Let’s briefly notice how the word is used in its various contexts:

· “As I urged you when I was going to Macedonia, remain at Ephesus that you may charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine, nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith” (1 Timothy 1:3-4, prosecho underlined).
· “Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain” (1 Timothy 3:8, prosecho underlined).
· “Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,” (1 Timothy 4:1, prosecho underlined).
· “This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith, not devoting themselves to Jewish myths and the commands of people who turn away from the truth” (Titus 1:13-14, prosecho underlined).

To summarize these usages, Paul uses the term prosecho five times in his letters; four of the five times are used in a negative sense. Three of those four negative uses are specifically talking about false teachers. We can’t know for sure, but it seems Paul’s instruction to Timothy in our original verse (1 Timothy 4:13) is to be as devoted as his spiritual and doctrinal enemies. Timothy is to be as devoted as those false teachers, but to a different standard: the true Word of God.

Applying this to our lives today, are we as the New Testament church as devoted to the truth as denominations are to their errors? Are we as a congregation at Midway as devoted to proclaiming the Truth as some congregations are to changing it? Do we reach as deep into our pocketbooks as do organizations and groups promoting worldly principles? We have the potential, the revealed Word, and the motivation. We don’t have any acceptable excuses. Let’s make sure we’ve given everything over to the work of the Lord.

May God bless us as we use our commitment to His glory.