Scandalous

SWINE FLU SOURCE

2009-04-29T14:58:00.001-04:00

It's not the little boy in Juarez Mexico. No, its Marynell Edith Swindell, age two of We love Hogs, Alabama.

Snapshots of where we are

2009-04-27T21:53:00.001-04:00

I just finished reading a great article by John Ortberg. I’m going to post the whole thing here (mainly because I want to know where to find it.

Snapshot: The recently released American Religious Identification Survey (ARIS) indicates that faith is going down across the board. The number of people who identify themselves as Christian has decreased by 11 percent in a generation. The single fastest-growing category when it comes to religious affiliation is “None,” which grew from 8 percent to 15 percent since 1990.

The “Nones” are the single biggest group in the state of Vermont, at 34 percent of the state’s population. And “None” was the only religious category to grow in all 50 states.
One of the other fastest growing categories is “Don’t Know/confused.” (You can supply your own mainline humor here. In fact, the “two-party system” of evangelical versus mainline Christianity that I grew up with is collapsing. In an ironic return to Reformation language, in the United States “evangelical” will soon be synonymous with “Protestant.”)

Barry Kosmin, who co-authored the survey, commented that more than ever before “people are just making up their own stories of who they are. They say, ‘I’m everything. I’m nothing. I believe in myself.’” He said that faith is increasingly treated as a fashion statement that serves as a vehicle for self-expression rather than a transcendent commitment which demands costly devotion.

One respondent to a version of the story in USA Today said: “None of my friends believe in God. When the subject of religion comes up around the table, we all just mock it. It’s a source of ridicule.” 27 percent of Americans do not even expect a religious funeral at their death. The survey doesn’t indicate how many are hoping to skip death altogether.

Snapshot: In the entertainment section of The San Francisco Chronicle recently, someone asked Mick LaSalle, the movie critic, what kind of movie will never be re-made. He answered by pointing to films like Going My Way, and forties films that starred Bing Crosby as a young parish priest. Religion is simply no longer accepted as part of the national fabric, he said. The one kind of movie that is most unlikely to be re-made today is one that assumes faith as a kind of national backdrop.

Snapshot: I was talking to some young church leaders recently about how, twenty years ago, if someone wanted to look for a model of what an effective church might look like in the future, they would generally go to a place like Willow Creek or Saddleback. But these younger leaders said it was no longer apparent where they should go to see what church might look like in another twenty years.

Snapshot: Tom Klegg and Warren Bird noted that if the unchurched population in the US were its own nation, it would be the fifth most populated nation on the planet, after China, the former Soviet Union, India, and Brazil.

Snapshot: A religion reporter for the LA Times wrote an article, and later a book, describing how he lost his faith in the process of covering his beat. He said that article brought in exponentially more positive emails than anything else he’d ever written.

All of which leads me to ask: Are we witnessing the process of secularization here in America similar to what Europe experienced in the middle of the twentieth century?

It’s not a matter of new evidence being introduced that makes the message of Jesus less likely to be true. What makes a living faith cease to be a live option is much more subtle and complex. It often has more to do with cultural shifts and attitudes that move gradually over time until a tipping point suddenly reveals them.

The question is not one of Kingdom Anxiety. The Kingdom of God has been doing very well, and will continue to flourish no matter the ebbs of flows from one century and continent to another. Phillip Jenkins has aptly chronicled how the explosion of the church in our day has shifted East and South.

He has also, in his most recent fascinating book, chronicled how Christianity was deeply rooted in much of the Middle East, Asia, and Africa for over 800 years, only to die out over centuries.

I hope what we are witnessing in the United States is not such a trend. I don’t have any magic answers if it is. But it’s a good thing to lift our heads up out of our own churches and projects, and look around the neighborhood.

By the way, if you’re involved in helping to lead a church, and you wonder whether giving it the best you have to offer matters—it does.

A little of This

2009-04-08T17:31:00.001-04:00

Did you see this
Washington Post had this about the devil
You may have already seen this, if not, then, you’re welcome
It really doesn’t matter if this makes you healthy I’m not drinking it.
This is a parable of the state of the church
I’ve never been to Grand Rapids Michigan but it might be worth it to get a chance to have 4800 calories when I eat this.
This is an amazing story of forgiveness
Loved this conversation.

Lest I forget

2009-04-07T21:33:00.001-04:00

“Christ dwells only with sinners.” For the sinner and for the sinner alone is His table set. There we receive His true body and His true blood “for the forgiveness of sins” and this holds true even if forgiveness has already been received in Absolution. That here Scripture is completely on the side of Luther needs no further demonstration. Every page of the New Testament is indeed testimony of the Christ whose proper office it is “to save sinners”, “to seek and to save the lost”. And the entire saving work of Jesus, from the days when He was in Galilee and, to the amazement and alarm of the Pharisees, ate with tax collectors and sinners; to the moment when he, in contradiction with the principles of every rational morality, promised paradise to the thief on the cross, yes, His entire life on earth, from the cradle to the Cross, is one, unique grand demonstration of a wonder beyond all reason: The miracle of divine forgiveness, of the justification of the sinner. “Christ dwells only in sinners.”

Herman Sasse

It was just crackers

2009-04-05T22:17:00.001-04:00

So anyway I’m in a Super Target here Denver tonight. And I can see a small lady trying to reach something on a high shelf. I ask her if I can help her. She tells me she is wanting the last box of the cheddar flavored pretzels. I reach over grab them and say “Here you go.” She says, “It takes a village.”

Must be a Colorado thing.

It’s why we are here

2009-04-04T20:17:00.001-04:00

I’m in Denver, Colorado right now. I’m looking at snow out of a hotel window. I’m here to help my sister who is having some health problems. Yesterday as I sat in the Wichita Kansas airport waiting for a connecting flight, I checked my email. One of them had the subject line: I thought you should know. This is how the email started: “Pastor you don’t know me but I thought you should what I know about someone who attends you church.” The person (who didn’t give their name) then went on to tell about a person who has done a lot of things in their life and has messed up in some spectacular ways.

I’ve read the email now a few times and since they didn’t ask me to do anything I can’t really tell you why the email was sent. This afternoon I finally sent a response. Here is what I wrote:

I don’t really know (the name of the person they mentioned) but the fact that he has screwed up in life doesn’t surprise me. I don’t know whether you know me or not but I’ve screwed up in my past and continue to mess up now. In fact everyone who attends Community Christian Church is someone who has screwed up in their life. We don’t think we are perfect, we believe Jesus is perfect and He has chosen to love us and give us grace in spite of our sins. Now because of His grace we are free to love Him and love others. Being a place where a guy like (the person they named) feels accepted is why we are here. We trust that over time the love of Christ will change Him as He is changing us. Thanks you for letting me know that we are doing our job.

This

2009-03-24T18:37:00.001-04:00

This has some great pictures of spring
This article contains my quote of the week. Here it is if you don’t want to read the article

This is the biggest generational transfer of wealth in the history of the world. If you’re an 18-year old middle-class hopeychanger, look at the way your parents and grandparents live: It’s not going to be like that for you. You’re going to have a smaller house, and a smaller car — if not a basement flat and a bus ticket. You didn’t get us into this catastrophe. But you’re going to be stuck with the tab, just like the Germans got stuck with paying reparations for the catastrophe of the First World War. True, the Germans were actually in the war, whereas in the current crisis you guys were just goofing around at school, dozing through Diversity Studies and hoping to ace Anger Management class. But tough. That’s the way it goes.

This may concern someone but I think we have bigger things to worry about.
mmmm Pizza Vending Machine – this is awesome
This proves that Vermont is the Alabama of the North
This is very sad
Swainsboro Georgia came up with this creative idea
This was an awesome way for Community Christian Madras to celebrate one year of Ministry. We are getting ready for campus number 3. To do that we are offering you a chance to go on a “campus mission trip.” This will allow you to experience what life at a Community Christian portable campus is like. Sign to go on the first trip April 4 by emailing campustrip@community-christian.net
This verse has been with me for a bit now. I often have people tell me that we shouldn’t make plans we should just allow God to make things happen. I like the Bible.
This is what you do for fun in Wales. It’s cool but illegal in several states.
This is one reason Southwest Airlines is great.
This is a new way to see Elmo

…a thousand words on the recession

2009-03-18T22:18:00.001-04:00

One of the blogs I regularly check out is “The Big Picture”. Here is their take on a what a worldwide recession looks like.

Riddle me this Batman

2009-03-18T17:25:00.001-04:00

My friend and colleague Jason Collins sent me a link to an article today. Go ahead and click on the link then come on back and let’s discuss.

The article

As you know this blog is called “Scandalous” with the tag line “Grace is always a scandal.” Would you side with the pastor in taking the guy into his house? How would you feel if you lived next door? Is there a correct response for a person who follow Jesus? If so what is that response?

This again

2009-03-16T22:26:00.001-04:00

This from CNN says we are less Christian
I love creativity. Some of most creative things of all time are like this taking a whole bunch of stuff others have done and making something better.
We’ve been talking about what faith means in a Christian worldview in “American Idol”. This article is research on Christian worldview.
This is a great story about a great writer
Is this a good idea?
This offers some great googleing tips

Is this where it’s come to?

2009-03-13T10:13:00.001-04:00

Has journalism fallen so far in our country that the only person who actually looks and acts like a real journalist is a comedian? Jon Stewart on the comedy news program “The Daily Show” finally got at what many of us know.

More Research: Christianity On The Decline In America

2009-03-11T15:59:00.001-04:00

The American Religious Identification Survey published its results this week. (Touchstone Magazine has a good summary piece as well, with excellent summary analysis. Be sure and read it.) It seems that Hispanic that are moving to our country are the only thing that keep American Catholicism from completely going under. In the Northeast where Catholicism has been so strong – it’s now in in rapid decline.

Protestants are in a free fall. Evangelicals are moving to non-denominational megachurches and away from mainlines and traditional evangelicalism. Non-denominational, highly Charismatic flavored evangelicalism is on the way to domination.

While out and out atheists are still a small sliver of the population, those calling themselves non-religious are growing rapidly. You ain’t seen nothin’ yet in that category. America remains a nation that says it is over 70% Christian, but Christianity as a percentage of the population is shrinking in every category except for Hispanics.

Baptists (who have long been the largest protestant group) are coasting into decline, with growth far behind the total population. And there is a big generational “horizon” coming with the aging of baby boomers. Most churches in this country are under 75 in attendance and have no younger younger generation.

The need for us to be to pray for the “at least 60,000” unchurched people in our area has never been greater. The need for you and I to live out our faith in a way that is salt to our community that makes them thirsty for Jesus has never been more needed. As more and more of our neighbors choose to live in the darkness of life separated from God we must let our light shine so they can see our Father. We must give our all to reach more unconnected people and together grow to full devotion. This is our time.

Magnificent God on Letterman

2009-03-09T21:31:00.001-04:00

U2 and Bono are at it again. Even though they have been doing it for 30 years they continue to be seen as one of the world greatest rock bands. In addition to that the continue to write and sing songs that have lyrics that are overtly worship songs.

The band has a new album out (you can listen to it free on Lala) and appeared on David Letterman every night last week. On Tuesday, they played a song called “Magnificent” which reads like Old Testament Psalm.

Magnificent!
Magnificent!

I was born, I was born to be with you
In this Space and Time,
after that, the Ever-After—I haven’t had a clue
only to break rhyme
such foolishness
leaves the heart black and blue

Only love, only love can leave such a mark
But only love, only love can heal such a scar

I was born, I was born to sing for you
I didn’t have a choice but to lift you up
And sing whatever song you wanted me to
I give you back my voice
From the womb my first cry, it was a joyful noise.

Only love, only love can leave such a mark
But only love, only love can heal such a scar

Justified till we die, you and I will magnify
The Magnificent
Magnificent

Only love, only love can leave such a mark
But only love, only love unites our hearts

Justified till we die, you and I will magnify
The Magnificent
Magnificent
Magnificent

The foundation of our faith

2009-03-06T08:16:00.001-05:00

I read this verse this morning.

And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. (2 Corinthians 5:15)

I know many of you won’t know this but this is the song that came to my mind

O sacred Head, now wounded,
With grief and shame weighed down,
Now scornfully surrounded
With thorns, Thine only crown;
O sacred Head, what glory
What bliss ’til now was Thine
Yet though despised and gory
I joy to call Thee mine.

What Thou, my Lord, hast suffered,
Was all for sinners’ gain;
Mine, mine was the transgression,
But Thine the deadly pain.
Lo, here I fall, my Savior!
’Tis I deserve Thy place;
Look on me with Thy favor,
Vouchsafe me to Thy grace.

What language shall I borrow
To praise Thee, heavenly friend,
For this my dying sorrow,
Thy pity without end?
Lord make me Thine forever,
Nor let me faithless prove
Oh let me never, never
Abuse such dying love.

I love this quote

2009-03-04T22:49:00.001-05:00

Just finished time with my small group (we had a really good group time tonight), we were discussing the lesson from “American Idol” talking about expectations we have for God. Then I read this quote. I love it.

From Erwin McManus: "Most of us want God to fix every wrong choice we make without taking from us our right to choose wrongly. We want to make God into our own pooper-scooper following right behind us, cleaning up our mess. [But] God lets us make our bed and makes us lie in it."

This

2009-03-03T22:48:00.001-05:00

If including Lent as part of your preparation to celebrate Easter this might be helpful.
I really like movies (not as much as baseball but a lot) this is a report on what movies were most successful in 2008. Are you surprised?
This is what North Dakota did about abortion.
This was my best subject in grade school. Do they still do this?
6473 in one month – this says one girl sent that many text messages. Do you agree with the author’s conclusions it’s having on our communication?
This makes it sound like prepaid is the way to go. Anybody doing that? If so tells us your experience.
This aired on a the local TV station I grew up watching in Mississippi. No bacon in heaven? That doesn’t sound right to me.

How sweet the sound

2009-02-18T22:04:00.001-05:00

I’ve been praying this prayer every day this week

Lord, you have taught us that without love whatever we do is worth nothing: Send your Holy Spirit and pour into my heart your greatest gift, which is love, the true bond of peace and of all virtue, without which whoever lives is accounted dead before you.

Our goal everyday should be to show to others the same grace and the same mercy that God has shown us. We might not think they deserve it ... but neither do we.
Churches ought to be competing to "out-grace" everyone else in the world. This is different that being more tolerant than everyone else in our world. The difference between tolerance and grace is huge.
Everyone is important to God. He loves the man in prison just as much as He loves me. God loves the homeless man just as much as He loves me. God love the unemployed on welfare as much as He loves me. God loves the 3-time divorcee as much as He loves me.
Jesus met a woman who had been married five different times and was shacking up with another man. Yet Jesus found her incredibly important and salvation worthy.
If God can love me and forgive me of my sins, then I have no right to hold a grudge against anyone.
Grace should be Christianity's best gift to the world. That will only happen in “my little world” if I genuinely allow God to answer my prayer and fill me with His love.

This

2009-02-17T22:02:00.001-05:00

First, I apologize to those of you who were disappointed that I didn’t post “stuff in my head” for the last few weeks. Second, I can’t promise I will do that on a regular basis. So I’m creating a new irregular post called THIS.

A church had a store opening near it that it didn’t agree with morally. They decided to do this.
Loved this version of Amazing Grace
By making this change Facebook now owns everything you ever posted. hmmmm
This is a great idea except for the fact that eventually they would figure out how to turn it around and use it on you
I saw this a few years ago and forgot it. Someone sent it to me again and I just love the story.
My friends know that I collect what I affectionately call “Jesus Junk.” This belongs in a whole other category.
This may be longer than some of you will want to read. It talks in detail about spiritual attitudes in Europe. The USA tends to follow the trend of Europe by one generation. It could predict our spiritual future unless we turn the tide.
If love creative music videos. I loved this.
While I wouldn’t agree with this stimulus it is better than the one that was approved.
This was my favorite Super Bowl Ad
Hall of Fame basketball coach Kay Yow died recently and she shared this at her own funeral.

One of the best days of the year

2009-02-14T06:48:00.001-05:00

Pitchers and catchers report to spring training today. Happy Valentines Day!

Don’t cover up

2009-02-12T22:48:00.001-05:00

If you watch Oprah you saw this a while back. I don’t watch it but I have a friend who loves the show. Several weeks ago Ted Haggard was on the show. My friend said, “You need to see that interview. I’ll get it to you.” I said “Okay.” The truth is I didn’t want to watch it because I thought I knew the Ted Haggard story - another fallen preacher, long time fake, etc. I know that’s judgmental but that’s what I thought. Then I watched it. Turns out I didn’t really know the story.

I was surprised when I saw him and his family. The way he openly talked about his issues seemed very honest. The obvious love his wife and kids have for him and the grace they showed him – moved me.

Then there was the part that just made me mad. It turns out that Ted had confessed his same-sex attraction to his wife early in their marriage. He was abused by a man when he was really young and that messed him up. But that’s not all that made me mad. Long before he started acting out on his same-sex attraction he went to some leaders in his church and told them how he was struggling and asked for their help. Some of them withdrew their friendship from him and left the church. Others told him just not to think about it and to pray. He tried but it didn’t help. He desperately wanted the temptation to be gone but now he felt all alone. He felt the pressure to be the “model” parent, husband, pastor, etc. So he never talked about it again.

This is not what the church is about!! We are not about presenting the idea that we are the model anything. We are supposed to be presenting that Jesus is the model, that He was perfect but He died to pay for our imperfections. And because of His grace offered to us we don’t have to cover up.

We have to create a place where all of us can be honest. A place where honesty is met with love, grace and support.

NBC Turned this ad down for the Super Bowl

2009-01-30T15:16:00.001-05:00

A YouTube hit portraying President Obama as an unborn child was rejected by NBC for a Super Bowl advertisement. Here it is

Stuff in my head 1/25/09

2009-01-25T18:06:00.001-05:00

Because of some family responsibilities this week I haven’t had as much time to read.

Do you have a kid that doesn’t want to go to college or you don’ t have a degree? Doesn’t mean there aren’t good jobs
Lot of thoughts and hope for the new administration in Washington. I can’t remember an election since the first Regan election that has people as excited/upset. I’ve written some very positive things this week I will say I was disappointed by this. It is politics as normal and reeks of the same stuff we’ve been subjected to since the 80’s. I’m still hopeful but it was very disappointing.
I’ve never seen anything like this. You can almost see if something is on Obama’s teeth and Clarence Thomas appears to be asleep.
What do you think of this message from the Busch girls to the Obama girls?

So what do you think of our new president...

2009-01-22T12:57:00.001-05:00

It’s the question of the week isn’t it? "Well, what do you think about our new President?" “Did you see the inauguration, what do you think?” Well I didn’t vote for him but there is a lot I like about him. I also am very proud to have been alive when we elected our first African American president. There are several important issues that when he described his position during the election I totally disagreed with him. Since his election I find myself disagreeing less with what He has said.

Let me give you some things I like.

I like that we have a president that knows how to use the power of public speaking to inspire those he is leading. I thought the 20 minute inauguration speech was awesome.
I love watching him with his wife and children. My wife and I were talking about how much fun it was watch him dance with his wife. I don’t believe that’s the first time they’ve done that and it appears like they actually like each other.
I love the fact that he is not ashamed of his faith in Jesus. He has said many times that he believes Jesus died for his sins. We wouldn’t agree on theology but probably most of you wouldn’t agree with me either.
I love the fact that he has been asking us to realize that government isn’t the solution. That all of us are going to have to be part of the solution. That’s right in line with what I believe. I know I will offend many of my Republican friends but that kind of talk and his ability to inspire us reminds me of my favorite president – Ronald Regan

Every day I am praying that President Obama will be the best president of my lifetime. I am hoping that in four years I feel so good about where he has lead our country that I can vote for him. I’m praying that men I admire like Rick Warren will speak into his life and his relationship with Christ will grow in a time when He needs God’s wisdom. I’m all behind you Mr. President lead on.

So what do you think about our new president?

A Divine Coincident?

2009-01-19T10:19:00.001-05:00

Is it a divine coincident that our first African American President is being inaugurated the day after we remember the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I grew up in Mississippi in the 1960’s about an hour and a half drive from where Dr. King was killed. I watched my father serve as chairman of the local school board as they school system desegregated. I watched as he stood against his “christian” friends who pulled their children out of the schools and started “christian schools”. So I have long admired Dr. King. I love his leadership, his courage and his ability to inspire people with hope. He was an extraordinary person – not perfect but extraordinary none the less.

I know most people are familiar with his “I have a dream” speech. I have always been intrigued with his last speech. It was given just hours before he was killed. I’ve embedded the last part of the speech today as we honor this remarkable man.

Stuff in my head 1/18/09

2009-01-18T19:47:00.001-05:00

This made me think of my friend Gary. I would go with you in spite of the knees.
This phrase about our Father has been with me this week.
While this was Not illegal in 1930 you would go directly to jail for doing this now.
Can you believe the press didn’t give us the whole story about abstinence pledges? Hard to believe we’d only get half the truth.
Loved Bono’s take on this, it made me go listen.
Does this have some implication for our starting more smaller campuses?
The most romantic country song of all time.
Community property?
The next one was sent to me by a “friend” :). This appears to be a real product. Watch the video she is so excited. ewwwwww
Sent to me by one of my Mac loving friends – The Wheel!
This has no easy answer but it’s a huge issue.
More stuff I should eat but don’t
Jason mentioned this a while back but it is on my mind. We can not bury our heads in the sand. We can not keep trying to enforce values on our culture we must reach people on at a time and that will change culture. Pray and invite for your paper people – pray for 60,000.
I did not vote for President Elect Obama and I’m sure soon there will be things that will upset me, but I am very impressed with some moves leading up to his historic inauguration. I am praying for him to be a great president. I love the simplicity of this video message from this president. He seems to understand the importance of inspiring us and leading us. Love his statement that “the government can’t fix our problems we are in it together.”
On the sports side, I am very excited about the new Braves starting rotation. I enjoyed this article about our new Japanese import.

Your sins will find you out

2009-01-16T20:53:00.001-05:00

A Sign of Good Things to Come?

2009-01-16T08:41:00.001-05:00

David Letterman said something interesting and profound on his show last night when talking about the remarkable story of the “Miracle on the Hudson.” After both engines died due to a flock of birds, a US Airways plane crash landed in the Hudson River and every single passenger and those in the crew walked (or swam) away from their sinking plane.

Letterman almost seemed to be praying when he said: “Maybe God, this is a symbol for good, strong, positive things to come in the year 2009 because you don’t get any news better than that.”

Just before that he he also said, “Airbus planes float better than they fly.”

Philosophy

2009-01-12T21:36:00.001-05:00

Stuff in my head 1/11

2009-01-11T17:55:00.001-05:00

I had a great time this morning at Community Christian Madras. I was interviewing people for Vision Day. That’s coming up February 1 and the “All In” series that will start.
Imagine how this would be protested in Coweta. Starship wouldn’t even be an issue. BTW it doesn’t mean I think Starship is a good idea.
The Obama Presidency is almost here, will we do what is necessary to avoid the Great Depression II
Can a company do good and do well?
Wireless electricity!!
I will miss watching him pitch in Atlanta. He might have been the greatest competitor of his generation. I can’t say I blame him for wanting to go and have a chance to play in the postseason again. I do wish he and other aging athletes wouldn’t make it all about money. Seems like if you’ve made over $100 million in the course of your career and you really wanted to stay in Atlanta $2million dollars wouldn’t keep you from staying.
The first two weeks of Cash Flow have been great. I’ve heard so many people taking positive steps. If you would be willing to tell your story email cashflow@community-christian.net or post it in the comment section here.

This person needs to come to “Cash Flow”

2009-01-09T08:42:00.001-05:00

This is off the site “the customer isn’t always right”. It’s an actual conversation from a bank

Customer: “There seems to be a problem with my ATM card. I can’t get any money out.”

Me: “Hold on, let me check your account…you only have $3.35 in your bank account.”

Customer: “Ok, so how do we fix that?”

Come to Cash Flow at Community Christian this Sunday

Stuff in my head for the first time in 2009

2009-01-04T21:15:00.001-05:00

Since I was about 12, I have loved Eric Clapton’s music. Here he talks about his spiritual life.
An atheist says “Africa needs God”
Bill asks a great question here.
I have no use for this but I want one. I do know what to do with this - eat it and then schedule heart bypass.
Dating ain’t what it used to be.
In defense of teasing
Here is something to go ahead and get for next year’s “White elephant” gift exchange. If you like these and actually want one, stop reading and go directly to therapy
I don’t know Amanda but I am the father of thee boys and I remember some of these.
The best thing about the calendar turning to January is – 6 more weeks until Spring Training. If you miss baseball as well here is an interview with retiring Braves announcer Pete Van Wieren

Your bias is showing

2008-12-31T22:34:00.002-05:00

Anytime you hear some one speak you should ask yourself ‘What is there bias?’ Every speaker has one, every writer has one, every listener has one. The one thing you can know for sure is when someone says they are presenting something to with an “unbiased viewpoint” they are either lying or they are blind to their bias. Now on to the rest of this.

Is there anything more fun at the holiday season than sitting down with your spare time and reading one of the magazine or newspaper stories that is debunking some claim of the Bible. It’s become one of our great American Christmas traditions.

And National Geographic delivers on the annual seasonal debunking of religion in favor of science. National Geographic dismisses the Bible as a valid historical source without stating a reason or giving us an argument. It’s as if we're all supposed to know that it's a given that the Bible doesn't give us facts.

The first paragraph of the article tells us that "Herod is almost certainly innocent of this crime" of the slaughter of the infant boys because "there is no report apart from Matthew's account." However, the piece goes on immediately to admit he murdered his own sons, wife, mother-in-law, and members of his court, cruel, evil acts in complete harmony with the slaughter of babies. It's just that that account is found only in the Bible, which apparently doesn't count as history.

But the fact that only one ancient writer mentioning an event can't be a reason to dismiss it according to National Geographic's standards because the article goes on to name historical events found only in Roman historian Josephus' history. Josephus is a contemporary of Matthew the Biblical writer, so the only reason for dismissing Matthew's account is that it's in the Bible and we all know that doesn't count.

Even if you take the Bible simply as a book by men and set aside the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the eyewitnesses and historical claims should be taken seriously, not dismissed out of hand. There are good reasons for and scholars widely accept the early dating of the Gospels. And Matthew, a Jew and native of the country, surely would have been aware of such a bloody act. The heinous killing of so many children in a small country would have been widely known. So Matthew, even as the only source, should be taken seriously until an argument is given to discredit his claims.

Religion is myth and feeling; science is fact and knowledge. There's no argument beyond that assumption. You will see this kind of thing in the seasonal specials on the History Channel, Discovery Channel and the like. This assumption often runs through stories of this nature. I know many Christians who love watching these programs and reading these articles. I just wish up front they would state their bias upfront.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2008-12-25T12:45:00.001-05:00

Jesus had no servants, yet they called Him Master.

Jesus no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.

Jesus no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.

Jesus no army, yet kings feared Him.

Jesus won no military battles, yet He conquered the world.

Jesus committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.

Jesus was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.

I feel honored to serve such a leader that loves me.

Merry Christmas!

Penn Jillette gets a Bible

2008-12-18T14:03:00.001-05:00

At Community Christian Church one of the things that regularly happens if you are a part of a small group or serving team is we hold each other accountable to share our faith. Once every few weeks in small groups we will ask “the grace question”. In different forms the question is basically “How are you doing at sharing God’s message of grace with people in your world?” We encourage people to identify the folks God has put in their world that are lost and to pray for them, serve them, invite them to come with them to church, etc. In short, do what you can do to tell the people in your world that they need a relationship with Jesus for assurance of eternal life.

The trend among many of my friends who are believers and in many churches is that we need to “show” our faith in Christ and not worry about “telling” others of their need for Christ. I believe the Bible would say we need to do both. In addition to that, there is the pervasive thought, among many christians, that we should not try to convert anyone. The idea is that it is arrogant to think we are right and they are wrong and that grace means everyone will be okay no matter what.

With that in mind I offer you this video. I just had a friend send me this video. It blew me away. Penn Jillette of the comedy/magic team of Penn and Teller is a very outspoken atheist. He makes no bones about it and openly challenges our belief in God. This video talks about a Christian who shared his faith with Penn. In this video Penn talks about the guy proselytizing (that just means to try to convert someone).

My favorite quote

I don't respect people who don't proselytize. If you believe that there's a heaven and hell, and people could be going to hell, and you think, 'Well, it's not really worth telling them this because it would make it socially awkward'... How much do you have to hate somebody not to proselytize?

How much do you have to hate someone to not proselytize? Wow! That man can preach.

Holiday Eating Tips

2008-12-17T23:06:00.001-05:00

There has been a good bit of talk around our office about holiday food. As a guy who knows a lot about eating I offer to you now my top 4 holiday eating tips collected over the last 49 years.

1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots anywhere near a Christmas spread is of the devil and should be avoided. You should leave immediately and go find some rum balls.

2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. Because they won’t sell it to you any other time of the year. And it’s awesome!

3. If gravy is an option always take it. We are living in the south – we like fried foods and we like it covered in gravy.

4. If you come across something really good on the buffet table, like those awesome Christmas cookies that have the icing on them, do not leave them behind. Stay right there and eat as many as you can before someone notices. If you leave them you will never see them again.

Okay those are my top 4. What would you add?

blog “open mic”

2008-12-15T21:53:00.001-05:00

Before the end of the year I thought I’d host my first “blog “open mic”. What is a blog open mic? It’s simply a digital version of an OPEN MIC. Click on comment on this post and, you can share anything - well, almost anything: a joke, your blog, random thoughts, scripture, a news story, your personal story or introduction, world changing ideas, your music, YouTube videos; your confessions, rants, rage against the machine, inspiring stories, the answers to life, you could show us your flow, your art, your poetry, prose or haiku.

You can share whatever as long as it’s not hateful. So, here is your chance to express yourself. Take a minute and “open mic.”

Wow! The Hubble Advent Calendar

2008-12-12T20:30:00.001-05:00

Someone just sent me this link. I plan to check back every day through Christmas for these amazing sites from the Hubble Telescope. “The Heavens declare the glory of God.”

BEST CHRISTMAS GIFTS

2008-12-11T11:55:00.001-05:00

It hit me today that since my mother passed away this will be the first Christmas of their lives that my sons won’t be getting a gift this Christmas from their MaMaw Martin. My mother loved to give people gifts. It got me thinking about what were the best gifts my parents ever gave me.

Here are a few gifts my parents gave me growing up that I'm trying my best to pass on to my children.

1. THE GIFT OF A HEALTHY MARRIAGE: My parents were always affectionate, loving and respectful to one another. Watching how my dad treated my mother (and vice-versa) has taught me how to treat Becky. The example of a healthy marriage is better than a cellular phone or an X-Box, and it's the gift that really last a lifetime. When children see the way their parents love and respect one another, it teaches them to do the same.

2. THE GIFT OF INTEGRITY: I was taught from a young age that we didn't lie, cheat or steal. When I did things like that there were consequences to pay.

3. THE GIFT OF DISCIPLINE: This is going to be hard for some of you to believe, but there were a few occasions when I got “paddled” at school by teachers or principles. Since I grew up in a very small town by the time I got home my parents knew about it and I got another one when I got home. They stayed after it, even though it took a long time, and I finally understood “you reap what you sow" or you have to be responsible for your own actions?

4. THE GIFT OF LOVE. There are different ways to spell love. T-I-M-E spells love. L-I-S-T-E-N spells love. I can’t ever remember not knowing that my parents loved me and would do whatever they could to help me.

5. THE GIFT OF A SPIRITUAL HERITAGE: This came mainly through my mom early in life but through both parents later on. For as long as I can remember I knew that my mom had a real growing relationship with God. On my desk sits her very last Bible. It is filled with notes and prayers, it has dates of what she was reading and what she was learning. I never ever got the feeling that my mom was not fully engaged with her Savior. Even now as I grow in my relationship with Christ, I follow her as she followed Christ.

What are some of the gifts your parents gave you that have lasted a lifetime?

What does it take to grow?

2008-12-08T21:40:00.001-05:00

How would you answer that question? I think my answer has changed a good bit through the years. I heard an answer several months back that has been rattling around in my head. I’ve been sort of trying it on for size to see what I think. To see if it works as a truth in many different areas of life. Here is the answer, I’m working with these days.

Truth + Grace + Time

What do you think? Better yet, what is your answer to the question?

Advent

2008-12-04T09:20:00.001-05:00

This year during the holidays I’m doing something I haven’t done as an adult - I’m celebrating advent. When I was a boy one of the churches that my family attended celebrated advent but for the most part the others didn’t. Honestly the only part I remember about it was there was a wreath, candles and something we read everyday. Once I became a teenager I went my own way spiritually. My family was in a different Christian tradition by then and they didn’t include the advent tradition in their celebration either. Now because of some personal spiritual discipline I am putting in my life, the advent tradition is back in my life.

Advent is the Christian season of waiting. We remember how the nation of Israel waited for the coming Messiah. We see the promises made to them that a deliever was coming. They waited and prayed that God would come. Finally their waiting was fulfilled in the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem.

Now we wait for the return of the Lord. Believing and hoping. All our prayers take place with the fulfillment of the old covenant behind us and the fulfillment of new covenant waiting still before us. We wait for a savior to redeem and heal God’s broken world.

The Advent celebration of waiting started this year just after America’s new holy-day is “Black Friday,” the day when the national messiah is born: bargains on presents. At the heart of it: we can’t wait to get what we want. The power, the pleasure, the purchase: it’s all ours to take as long as we show up and rush for the prize of the high calling of cheap gadgets.

Jesus has come to bring God’s kingdom in power and to fill his Good News with victory over sin, death and the grave. Until Jesus returns, we are watching, on guard, waiting, serving as those trusted by the master to do his work until he returns. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.

What do you do during the holiday season that helps you grow in love for God’s gift of Jesus? Have any of you used the Advent tradition as a part of your celebration?

8 THINGS

2008-11-29T09:40:00.001-05:00

I got tagged, by a friend, to share some "eights" about myself. At the end I am tagging all of you you. To keep this going answer these categories with your “eight” either in the comments or on your own blog and link back here. Here you go:

8 Favorite TV Shows:

Atlanta Braves baseball

Prison Break

The Shield

Chuck

Amazing Race

The Simpsons

Dexter

House

8 Favorite Restaurants:

Cafe Pig’

Taco Mac

The Half Shell

Any Cheap Mexican Restaurant

Smokey Bones

Jade Garden

Outback

Zaxby’s

8 Things That Happened Today:

Slept late

Finished up a message

Went over this Sunday’s service with the producer

Finished some details for “When Love Came to Town”

Packed for a trip out of town with my wife and youngest son

Said goodbye to my two oldest sons who aren’t on the trip because of college.

Got on an jet

8 Things I Am Looking Forward To:

Christmas Eve/When Love Came to Town Outreach

My annual Christmas tradition of playing “give away”

Snorkeling

Braves Baseball - spring training February 14

Talking about “The End Times” in the next “You asked for it” message, December 28.

Playing games with the family over the holidays

Trip to Israel next year

Heaven

8 Things on My Wishlist:

Seeing the three young men God entrusted to Becky and me grow into strong men of God

To see many of The 60,000 come to Christ

Another Braves World Series

Amazon Kindle

Trip to Normandy

Me being more content with me

Running “wide open” until I die

Fully enjoying the people God calls me to serve along side

I tag you…..

"Happy Thanksgiving"

2008-11-26T22:55:00.001-05:00

To Grandmother’s house we go

2008-11-26T09:18:00.001-05:00

I offer the following for those of you who can’t be this year’s Community Thanksgiving Meal because you have family responsibilities. Here are some fun shotgun calling rules for the trip over the river and through the words.

Generation WE

2008-11-25T15:30:00.001-05:00

I am great believer in the next generation. From what I have seen they are smarter, more concerned about others and their world, more involved politically and ready to do something to change their world. This is also the generation that in large degree is leaving the church behind. Those of us that believe in them must hear what they are saying. We need to hear them and they need to hear us. This video may have a political agenda but it’s important we hear it so we can understand. Then we can hopefully speak with wisdom.

Stuff in my head – a catch up

2008-11-23T18:03:00.001-05:00

I love John Ortberg’s stuff, I thought this was one of his best.
This is an interesting string of comments on the de-churching of America
Jason did a great job ending “I want it All”. Overall I thought this was a great series. If you missed a week go to the church web site, click on resources and catch up.
It’s all in the marketing
I am loving watching the Falcons these days. That being said only 83 days until pitchers and catchers report for spring training. :)
Survey says – Churches that are over 1000 in attendance are more intimate and their members less spiritually gullible
We have the Women’s Bible, the Promise Keepers Bible, the Bible for the prayer of Jabez, The Bible for left handed men who like to sing alto, now comes The Soprano’s Bible (an excerpt)
I hadn’t commented on it but I thought this was the coolest thing on election night. I wish they had used it more. If I had it I would use it for more church campuses.
“The Customer is not always right” is a recent addition to blogs that make me laugh.
Don’t forget this week we continue the series “You Asked for it” with “What does the Bible teach about Heaven and Hell.” I love this picture of heaven

Okay I’ll end with this. I laughed and laughed.

Become a disciple

2008-11-21T17:25:00.001-05:00

I haven’t blogged for a bit. I’m trying to decide if blogging is something I should continue to do or not. But while I’m still in the decision stage, I saw this and it was too good not to share.

Look at the ad above? What kind of “disciple” is this slightly-slutty woman wanting to make you? Well it’s a come on for an online bar where you can, and I quote, “Get someone drunk by buying them a virtual Corona or shot of whiskey.”

Have you noticed how our world is taking Christian vocabulary! The word “Christian” has become an adjective for marketing all kinds of stuff. I call it “Jesus Junk.” All kinds of musicians are singing about “born again.” This Sunday night I’ll be watching Jack Bauer on 24 kicking off with “Redemption.”

So what is the one thing that can’t be counterfeited?

Jesus said, “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” (John 13:34-35 NLT).

Prayers for Our President-Elect

2008-11-04T23:14:00.001-05:00

I Timothy 2:1 I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. 2 Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. 3 This is good and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. 5 For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. 6 He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time. …8 In every place of worship, I want men to pray with holy hands lifted up to God, free from anger and controversy.

I Peter 2:13 For the Lord’s sake, respect all human authority—whether the king as head of state, 14 or the officials he has appointed. For the king has sent them to punish those who do wrong and to honor those who do right. 15 It is God’s will that your honorable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you. 16 For you are free, yet you are God’s slaves, so don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil. 17 Respect everyone, and love your Christian brothers and sisters. Fear God, and respect the king.

Romans 13:1 Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. 2 So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. 3 For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. 4 The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. 5 So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience. 6 Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.

Whatever happened to personal responsibility

2008-10-25T21:39:00.001-04:00

Is it just me, or does the theme of our times seem to be “It’s not my fault?” Whether it’s the economy, the political process (does anyone know what these candidates are for? Where is the vision we can rally around?), or especially in our personal lives. It’s always the same conclusion. I’m a victim, the devil made me do it, it his/her fault, if life was more fair, on and on and on.

Doesn’t the Bible say that “we are more than conquerors in Jesus”? We can choose to with hope, peace, optimism, good will and faith no matter what our circumstances. People screw up, plans fail, stuff happens but God is still God-all knowing, all powerful and always with us. He not threatened when we question or uninterested in our problems. He loves us even when we don’t feel it. We do not have to take the path of least resistance. We do not have to give in to the gloom and doom that is playing 24 hours in our world. We can chose how we respond. We are not victims. This is our chance to stand in faith.

Am I the only one that gets frustrated with our country of victims? Maybe I’ve on political commercial overload – need to take a break from reading out our current economic situation.

Some good news in bad economic times

2008-10-23T14:19:00.001-04:00

It is very difficult to have much hope about the economy with all that is going on. At the church office we see people every day who have lost jobs, are loosing their homes and are in real need of help. It’s hard to watch the news or if you have one to look at your portfolio or not begin to draw comparisons to the Great Depression of the 1930’s. But underneath all the stuff that’s been coming out here is one good note.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis reports consumers saved an annualized $297 billion in the second quarter -- more than 10 times higher than the first quarter, and the highest quarterly savings since 1995. From 2004 through 2007, the average rate was around $85 billion. In the third quarter of 2005, things got really out of hand, with a negative savings rate … meaning that as a collective body, living paycheck-to-paycheck meant you were ahead of the pack.

Maybe there is a silver lining in this very dark cloud.

Would more self inspection help us

2008-10-22T22:53:00.001-04:00

Last week as I prayed and prepared for the message “Jesus wouldn’t be a Christian because Christians are judgmental and anti-homosexual” I wound up reading a great article by Michael Spencer. It’s helped me focus on my own need for self-examination instead of looking at the sins of others. His thoughts have stayed with me so I wanted to share them with you.

Some Christians love to talk about the sins of Obama or gays or the mainstream media, but get really animated when I suggest we need to talk about our own, even if they are listed in the Bible dozens of times.
If the Gospel isn’t grabbing you by the real sins in your real life, just exactly what is the Gospel doing for you? Or you with it?

I don’t like the fact that I can give a really good talk on prayer when I rarely pray.

I don’t like it that I can read Matthew 5:23-24 and, as far as I can recall, never take a single step toward obeying it.

I don’t like that I can sin and then condemn someone else’s sin in almost the same breath.

I don’t like it that I’m convinced people need to understand me, but I take so little time to understand others.

I regret that I’ve spent so much of my life seeking to make myself happy in ways that never led to real happiness at all.

I don’t like it that I’ve accumulated so much stuff I don’t need, and I’m so reluctant to give it away.

It causes me real sorrow that I’ve said “I love you” far to little in my life, especially to the people I love the most.

I don’t like the fact that some of my students think I’m a hero, when I’ve done nothing more than be an unprofitable servant.

I hate the difference between what I know and what I do.

I hate the fact that I can use words like “radical” describing what others should do in following Jesus when I’m the first one to want to play it safe.

I don’t like that part of me that thinks everyone should listen to what I say.

I wish I could see myself as God sees me, both in my sinfulness and in the Gospel of Jesus.

I regret using so little of my life’s time, energy and resources for worship and communion with God.

I despise that part of me that always finds fault, and uses that knowledge to put myself above others.

I am embarrassed by the words I use that come so easily from the tongue but have little root in the heart.

I regret taking so few risks in the cause of living a God-filled life.

I despise the shallowness of my repentance for sin that has caused hurt and pain for others.

I don’t like that part of me that can make up an excuse, even lie, almost endlessly in the cause of avoiding the truth and its consequences.

I don’t like that I can talk of heaven in a sermon or at a funeral, but very little of me wants to go there.

I regret that I have loved my arrogant self far than I’ve loved my self humbled in Christ.

I regret that so much good advice, good teaching and good example was wasted on me.

But I am glad for the endless mercies of the Lord, and the amazing fact that those mercies extend to me, today and every day.

I am glad that Christ my substitute took this sorry life, pathetic obedience and lethargic worship and exchanged it for his perfect righteousness.

I am glad that the Holy Spirit is remaking and raising dead men- even at age 52.

I am glad that one day I will look at all these failures and regrets and they will have been transformed into the very glory of Jesus Christ himself.

I am glad that God has cast the very things I most dislike about myself into the depths of the sea and has removed them as far as the east is from the west.

I am glad that when I return in shame and embarrassment, my Father meets me running, covers me with his gladness and throws me a party in the presence of the naysayers and pharisees.

I am glad that Jesus takes these things I loathe about myself and says “It is finished. Come you good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Lord. Today you will be with me in paradise.”

I am glad Jesus says “Before I have called you servant, but now I will call you friend.”

I am glad Jesus says “Who condemns you? There is now no condemnation because you are in me and I am in you. If I am for you, who can be against you? Go, and sin no more.”

Stuff in my head for the last week

2008-10-20T21:26:00.001-04:00

I haven’t had much time for blogging lately. I have some things that I would like to write about but haven’t had the chance. Maybe this week. Anyway here is my weekly run down of stuff from last week.

Biggest thing I prayed about and thought about last week was Sunday’s topic in the “Jesus wouldn’t be a Christian” series. I knew there was almost no way to talk about homosexuality without upsetting a bunch of folks. Contrary to popular belief upsetting people is not something I look forward to doing. Thanks to those of you who prayed for me.
The election is winding down. John McCain should be like this all the time. If he showed that personality in debates he would win by a wide margin.
This combines our current series and the election.
Wow this is depressing. 90%!
Christianity taught by an atheist
Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner. Our team is putting the plans together for another multi-site Thanksgiving meal. And we have plans in place to help a lot of people at Christmas as well. Pray.
Andrew Marshall (one of the video guys on our staff) has started blog where he will be posting some of our video stuff. In addition to that if you go to his blog you’ll find other “interesting” stuff that is all Andrew.

Two weeks worth of stuff – edited

2008-10-13T20:48:00.001-04:00

I didn’t post the stuff in my head from last week because I wanted to leave the last post up for a bit. I know there have been people coming to the blog through the link on the church web site because the cards we’ve mailed lately. By the way if you are wondering – we can’t take you off the mailing list – we don’t control this list the United State Post Office does. Since it’s been two week’s here is the edited list of some of the things I’ve been thinking about.

Okay here is a different twist on the “gender neutral” marriage. What do you think - a good Christian response or not?
I enjoyed this – the President sings U2
I love the new series “Jesus wouldn’t be a Christian.” Jason has done a great job the first two Sundays. Now it’s up to me to not screw it up.
Everyone blames someone for the current economic crisis. I have an opinion but I’m sure I don’t have all the info. I did find this article from 1999 interesting. Watch for the quote from Peter Wallison – he sounds like prophet.
I do not want to be an “energy vampire”
I am loving me some Matt Ryan led Atlanta Falcons
Great story of forgiveness
I love Dave Ramsey’s plan – be sure and read part 2 (click the link)
Paul Newnan was a great role model in so many ways – married for 50 years to the same woman, excellent at what he did, and lived an intentionally generous life (more than $250 million given away in just the last three years). Don’t know whether he was follower of Christ but that’s quite a legacy.
Okay I think I’ll end with this. Watch this and then tell me why you can’t get off your butt and do something.

We Hear What You’re Saying

2008-10-03T17:55:00.001-04:00

Recently a survey was commissioned to find out what young adults (16-29 year olds) who don’t attend church think about Christianity and Christians. The findings from this research were published in a book called “unchristian”. The bottom line was that Christians have a huge image problem. We are seen as being:

Hypocritical
Just interested in “getting people saved”
Anti-homosexual
Sheltered
Too Political
Judgmental

At Community Christian one of the things we have been saying since we started was “we want to change the way people think about church.” Particularly, we want to change the way people who don’t go to church think about church. So for us, this was important research.

Many of you will have already received a mail piece that we designed to directly speak to these perceptions. If you are reading this because you got that piece of mail and are angry at us because you are a Christian and feel it unfairly represents you – I understand. Many followers of Christ I know are not represented by those perceptions. It hurts me personally to think that when I get introduced as a pastor to someone who isn’t a Christian that those perceptions run through their head. It often takes several incidents where someone will say “So you don’t hate gay people?" or “If I don’t believe what you believe, we can still be friends?” or “What do you mean you don’t always vote Republican? You’re a Christian!”

However even though those perceptions don’t represent me and many followers of Christ, I certainly can see how people arrived at those perceptions. That’s why the back of our cards say, “We hear what you are saying! We see who might think that. And we mostly have ourselves to blame!” It’s important that we try to start a conversation with people who might believe this way - to let them know that we have heard them - and to ask them to give us another chance – to give Christianity another chance – to give Jesus another chance.

So, if you are reading this and you got the card and you are a skeptic about Christians and the church, we understand why you think that. We (Christians) have done many things to cause you to think that. We’re asking you to give us another shot. We are actually learning these days to be more honest about our flaws. We really do love people and God really does have solutions to help all of us.

Warren Buffet on the bailout

2008-10-02T15:46:00.001-04:00

I thought this was a very interesting interview Charlie Rose and Warren Buffet on the bailout plan.

No Bailout – is my money safe?

2008-09-29T21:26:00.001-04:00

Okay, so there won’t be a bailout. At least not yet. Now you add Wachovia to the list of troubled banks. The Dow ended the day down by the largest number in history.

I would love to give you some great informed response to what’s going on. I can’t. Here is a great article by the New York Times answering some questions.

Here are some things that are true, even if things get worse.

Thus says the Lord, “Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind and makes flesh his strength, and whose heart turns away from the Lord…but blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose trust is the Lord.” Jer. 17:5, 7

When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise, in God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid. What can mere man do to me? Psalm 56:3, 4

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and turn away from evil. Proverbs 3:5-7

But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! Do not worry then, saying, “What will we eat?” or “What will we drink?” or “What will we wear for clothing?” For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But see first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:30-33

Some of the stuff in my head the past week

2008-09-28T18:34:00.001-04:00

Good article on what both candidates think about The President’s proposal
Do you have an idea that could change the world. Google will pay for it. $10 million
I think this is a good idea. Make sure you look at the inside view. The first place my wife and I lived 29 years ago was not even close to this nice.
An idea on saving gas
I have no clue what to make of this – flamingos shaped like a flamingo?
Want to compare actual quotes from the two candidates on the same topic side by side? Google has help
I think you know I’m not crazy about either candidate but Christian’s participating in doing this to Obama is just wrong. And it is happening because people send me “the truth” in forwarded e-mails.
I agree they are both blowing it in their response
Look who is really irrational
How do we let this guy come into our country say this stuff and then leave.

I love to read and laugh

2008-09-24T21:34:00.001-04:00

My mom was a teacher. One of her gifts to me was she taught me to love to read. One of my current favorite humor writers is John Shore. Here is his recent “summaries” of some of the greatest works of western literature. These made me laugh.

“Cliff notes are too long. Here are John’s notes for Western Lit 101.

The Odyssey: A hairy guy who yells a lot floats around in a boat.

Oedipus the King: A guy marries a girl a little too much like the girl who married dear old dad. (When this play opened at the Viennese National Theatre in 1901, Freud, in attendance, died of an asthma attack.)

The Apology of Socrates: Socrates feels bad. He didn’t mean to do it. Plato made him do it.

Ovid’s Metamorphoses: More people than you can shake a stick at get mysteriously transformed into … well, sticks.

Dante’s The Divine Comedy: A guy in a funny hat visits Hell and acts rude. We follow him into the pits of unbearable agony, which lasts right up until the moment we close this book and go see who’s hanging out at the college shop.

Don Quixote: A skinny old Spanish guy goes nuts and rides around being hilarious. (This really is the funniest book ever written. A must read. Get the Samuel Putnam translation.)

Goethe’s Faust: A guy who over-intellectualizes everything sells his soul for a chance to have sex. A lesson for college students everywhere.

War and Peace: Guys go crazy killing each other. Guys go crazy over women. Peace is elusive.

Tolstoy’s The Death of Ivan Illyich: Someone named Frank Boltosky croaks. Kidding! What really happens is that Ivan Illyich, whom everyone thinks is dead, suddenly leaps from his bed, and declares that from then on he will dedicate his life to aerobic fitness. Three days later he is killed when his overcoat gets caught in a threshing mill. Sad, in a pointless kind of way.

Kafka’s The Metamorphosis: A guy turns into a cockroach the size of a sofa, and spends all his time in his room sulking about it. His family has trouble adjusting. “

Can he really do anything?

2008-09-23T20:56:00.001-04:00

As it gets closer to the election and I listen to both candidates I have so many questions. Here are some of them. Comment away.

What can the president possibly do or control to fix the economy? He doesn’t have the ability to arbitrarily lower gas prices. Isn’t the slow down in the economy partially a result of too many lenders giving home loans to people who really couldn’t afford to buy one? And isn’t that a result of our national disease of “I want what I want no matter what”? Wouldn’t a leader be the one to help us understand that we have to fundamentally change the way we look at consuming?

Isn’t a part of the free market system the fact that companies and businesses go out of business when they have bad products, or charge too much or too little, or just make stupid financial decisions? Why should the government bail them out? How is that a free market?

Honestly, what can either candidate REALLY do to “fix the economy?”

P.S. Okay I don’t really any other way to do this. To the unknown commenter who tried to help me see that “my world is very small” - I don’t really know what that means or what you meant by it. Comment again and let me know more of what you mean.

Is there no forgiveness?

2008-09-22T23:13:00.001-04:00

Ed Hochuli might be the NFL’s best referee. If you watch pro football I bet you recognize him. He has always been admired. That is until last week in Denver.

In a wild, wide-open game announcers were sure would come down to the last possession, the Denver Broncos faced a 2nd and goal with time slipping away. Denver Quarterback Jay Cutler was about to throw when the ball popped out of his hand and the fumble recovered by the San Diego Chargers. Ed Hochuli was behind the play, and from his vantage point believed the fumble was an incomplete pass. He blew his whistle, ending the play.

It was clear immediately a mistake had been made, and Hochuli realized his error after an official review. If called correctly, the San Diego Chargers would win. But by NFL rule the play could not be overturned. The Broncos kept the ball and in just a few plays scored the winning points.

Chargers coach Norv Turner was incensed, and this was his quote to the AP:

“On the last play, it was clearly a fumble,” Turner fumed. “Ed came over, the official, and said he blew it. And that’s not acceptable to me. This is a high-level performance game and that’s not acceptable to have a game decided on that play.”

His frustration is understandable, but it should be noted Norv Turner only believes in high-level performances when they don’t apply to him. His record (72-89-1) would say he is a mediocre coach.

From minute one, Ed Hochuli has regretted his poor call. He’s apologized profusely to anyone who’ll listen. He’s been careful to answer every e-mail – even hate mail that he has received.

Yet, he was disciplined by the NFL, which could negatively affect his chances of ever officiating another NFL playoff game. For a guy who’s been the head referee in two Super Bowls, it’s a tremendous professional hit.

The biggest concern to me is what this says about our society’s tendency for hanging our contrite public figures. We expect our leaders to be honest and open but if they do we destroy them for admitting fault. We mock apologies and deride policy changes over years as ‘flip-flopping’. In today’s media, it doesn’t pay to take your lumps, to apologize for wrongdoing, because witnessing the downfall of our public figures is too sweet. Unfortunately I don’t think it’s too much better in the church. Who loves the fall of a public leader better than Christians?

Some of the stuff in my head this last week

2008-09-21T19:04:00.001-04:00

I’ve been a little jealous of Bill Coffman – Madras Campus Pastor for the trip he took this week. See pictures here
Have you noticed Sarah Palin’s choice of names for her children? Different! I had a laugh finding out what my name would have been if Sarah Palin had been my mom. You can find yours too, right here. By the way mine would have been Tape Boise Palin. I’ll stick with Ed.
Presidential charitable giving – I guess I shouldn’t be surprised but this surprised me.
Loved this post by Community Christian Director of Student Ministry Resources and Alignment - Kelly Davenport
My small group may be a war this week. The host is a huge Alabama football fan, two other guys in the group like to bark like bulldogs. Alabama comes to Athens on Saturday both teams undefeated.
I reread my journal from September 20, 1990 when we packed our belongings to move to Coweta County to start this church. It’s hard for me to believe it’s been 18 years. I had no clue back then what God was going to do and was very nervous that I was screwing up. Things have changed much in that area.

Bail-out

2008-09-17T09:07:00.001-04:00

Okay what do you really think,

government bail outs

Are they good? Bad?

Changed your mind

2008-09-15T23:19:00.001-04:00

We often say "I changed my mind" about things. Recently I was having a conversation with a friend. This friend and I are very alike in most ways. But there is a major fundamental, at our core difference - Jesus. If you didn't know I'm a pro-Jesus guy. My friend is pro-Jesus as well but not pro-Jesus, son of God, savior of the world. As we are talking we got into a very interesting conversation and then my friend said, "So when we was the last time you changed your mind on something that really mattered to you.? Not like what you like to drink or what side of the bed you sleep on. But something that is at your core." That one took me a few minutes to answer. In fact I had to say those words that my pride hates to say, "Uhh, I don't really have an answer for that."

Now I did eventually come up with an answer. But the question made me start thinking - how often do adults really openly question what they believe and "change their mind" about something. So I'm asking you to comment here. What is the last thing that really matters to you that you changed your mind about? How hard was it to do that?

Some of the stuff in my head the last week

2008-09-14T17:01:00.001-04:00

To know her is to love her - and I do. My best hopes and dreams are for Aubrey and Ryan.
A story of the "rest of us". This one a pretty famous (writer of Basic Instinct, Showgirls, Flashdance and more)... grace really is amazing.
Prevent senility, what do you think?
Sleeping alone?
Don't know what you think about Bob Woodward. I've enjoyed a couple of his books and I enjoyed these articles from inside the Bush White House.
I know the Braves suck and Mets are winning the division but there is nothing better than taking 2 out of three from them in NYC in the last series ever in Shea.
Here's a quote that I've been thinking about “The difference between where we are and where we want to be is the painful decisions we are unwilling to make.”

Remembering 9/11

2008-09-11T09:02:00.001-04:00

It's been seven years since “9/11.” It's weird you don't even have to write the year and we all know. It seems certain events in each generation seem to mark us. Here's the question for today.

When the 9/11 attacks took place, where were you exactly? What did you do?

If you want a good read for the anniversary here is Time Magazine to mark the 1 year anniversary.

Questions

2008-09-10T16:49:00.001-04:00

I've been working on the series "Slang". In this series I'll be explaining phrases that mean a lot to Community Christian but may mean nothing to other people. Phrases like "church for the rest of us", "paper people", "the 60,000", "Chapter 2", etc. As you can imagine a lot of this series has made me think again about who we are as a church and why we do what we do.

Recent conversations with two people I am praying for every day to come to Christ have convinced me of the need for what we try to do. Also I seem to be having more conversations (mostly by e-mail) with regular church goers who are "checking us out" who don't get why what we are trying to do is important or even necessary.

I've been going hard at this mission to reach unconnected people and together grow to full devotion for 18 years now. I continue to be amazed how inward focused Christ followers can become. If you are a part of Community Christian please be here this Sunday for the second week of Slang.

When I'm tired or stressed

2008-09-09T23:18:00.001-04:00

When I'm tired or stressed I like to eat. If I am both tired and stressed I really like to eat. Today I am both but instead of eating I decided to watch comedy routines about food I love. Here is one of my favorites.

Hilarious Photos at JibJab | Funny Videos at JibJab | Hilarious Stuff at JibJab

Some of the stuff on my mind the last 2 weeks

2008-09-07T23:07:00.001-04:00

Okay I missed a week with this normal rambling. I won't include all I normally would, just the highlights.

Barak's big speech and Palin's nomination both happened while I was gone. I've been reading lots of stuff to try and get educated for the election. Here, here, here, here, here (and for those of you who worry that I agree with everything I post here - I don't!)
MSN has a good article on happy marriages. How do you do on these things?
Public schools creation vs. evolution
Who do you know who needs a snobby coffer intervention
Okay this just in today - the Braves suck and the Falcons win. What? Okay so they only be the Lions but they won.
I've been having this very thought myself. (Again I didn't say I had decided to do it, so calm down. But it might not be long coming before I might.)
If you liked Jason's awesome message on "why believe the Bible" you'll enjoy this.
The Bulldogs play at Georgia Teach Sept 20. I hope I can go.

Do we really think this helps?

2008-09-06T17:36:00.001-04:00

I have long hated those signs that some churches put in front of their buildings. I don't like them because of the terrible little sayings that are often on them. But the one pictured here that takes a shot at Katy Perry's hit song "I Kissed A Girl" is among the worst of all time.

The pastor of this church told his local paper that he thinks the sign is a "loving warning to teens." Since you have to assume the sign is going be read by a lot of people that don't know anyone at the church, they don't know the heart of the people of that church - do you think this is loving? Is this the way you would address this topic with someone you never met? If you only had one opportunity to speak would this be your choice for your message?

Two questions:

What do think about this sign?
What is the worst church sign you've ever seen?

Do you TXT

2008-09-04T22:36:00.001-04:00

Look at this chart that show the growth in the number of text messages over the last few years

I've just recently begun to use text messaging. My question is how much do you text message?

It's all about me

2008-09-02T22:55:00.001-04:00

The last several weeks I've been preparing for the series "SLANG" that will start this Sunday. In this series we are going to look at some of the words and phrases that describe the mission and values of Community Christian Church. One of those phrases that's been around for the majority of the 18 year history of Community Christian is "It ain't about me." In preparation to talk about that I was reading someone's comment on Exodus 6, God's interaction with Moses.

In the first eight verses, God uses the word "I" 18 times. He eliminates any possible questions about who is in control and just goes wild with establishing who this whole thing is about:
In verses 6 through 8 He says, "I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. I will free you from being slaves to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment. I will take you as my own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the LORD your God, who brought you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. And I will bring you to the land I swore with uplifted hand to give to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob. I will give it to you as a possession. I am the LORD. And if that weren't enough, he uses the word "my" five times in the first eight verses. That means that God repeats the same message 23 different times.
It's about Him.
It's not about me.

Happy Labor Day

2008-09-01T14:44:00.001-04:00

Happy Labor Day everyone. This holiday was created in 1894 by President Grover Cleveland to give American workers a paid day off of rest and relaxation. It's a good thing to have day off (I know some of you still have to work - all three of my sons are working). God even commands us to take at least one day off every week.

I don't know if it's just the way I'm wired, or it's the way I was raised but I really fight a battle with resting and relaxing. It seems so unpopular and unproductive to just relax and do nothing. Early in the history of our church the elders had to send me away on vacation under threat of firing me. A few years ago was a proud time for me when I took every day of vacation and my designated day off each week. However since we started the "Chapter 2" campaign last October I have only taken 10 days of vacation and missed more than a few days off.

Weariness leads to burn out. Tired bodies and tired minds lead to bad choices. It’s just about impossible to see and hear God when you’re going 100 miles an hour. I have a great wife who suggested we take the Labor Day weekend and get away. So I just got back from several days on this boat. I feel great. I slept great. I ate too much. I had a great time, just in front the hurricane.

I haven't listened to the podcast yet but I hear Jason did a great job yesterday. I'm looking forward to the next four weeks of "Slang". In this series I'm going to get a chance to share the mission, vision and values of Community Christian. This Sunday is "Vision Day" and I'm going to talk about 60,000, paper people and Chapter 2.

I don't want this to happen to me or any of you

2008-08-26T16:10:00.001-04:00

As I studied for a message I came across a quotation that just hit me. This is something I absolutely don't want to say about my life and I don't want anyone who attends Community Christian to have to say.

The writer is talking about the danger of pursuing "comfort" in our culture. That it isn't really the bad things it leads us to do but the good things it leads us to avoid. Look at this

To sinful patterns of behavior that never get confronted and changed,

Abilities and gifts that never get cultivated and deployed-

Until weeks become months

And months turn into years,

And one day you’re looking back on a life of

Deep intimate gut-wrenchingly honest conversations you never had;

Great bold prayers you never prayed,

Exhilarating risk you never took,

Sacrificial gifts you never offered,

Lives you never touched,

And you’re sitting in comfort a shriveled soul,

And forgotten dreams,

And you realize there was a world in desperate need, And a great God calling you to be part of something bigger than yourself-

You see the person you could have become but did not; You never followed your calling.

Let's make a pledge to not have that be true of us.

Georgia on my mind.

2008-08-26T08:52:00.001-04:00

Some of the things in my head this past week

2008-08-25T21:42:00.001-04:00

I hope this is a change in the stupid ways some of our judges have interpreted the "fair use" copyright laws. It's about time.
Does anyone remember Max Headroom? This is pretty amazing. Play the video and remember - she isn't real.
If you are a Christian does this ad bother you at all? There are a whole group of Christians up in arms about it. What do you think?
Some college presidents think we should lower the drinking age.
I feel old when reading "the mindset for the class of 2012"
I'll end with this because it's long. I love Stephen Colbert he makes me laugh. On his site they have a “Religionizer,” which chooses a random religion and outputs a related joke. The jokes themselves are hidden by code but someone hacked in and got them all. So, for your entertainment, here are some that made me laugh:

Christianity:
Sweet! More Bible!
Warning: Stigmata not covered by HMO.
Pro: Salvation. Con: N/A
Jesus died for your sins, so you kind of owe him.
Admit it: it feels good to be right.
Walking on the beach just got a whole lot easier.

Judaism:
Hear, O Israel: Accept Jesus as your personal savior.
Mazel Tov! Your prize: the media.
Now you’ll never be friends with Mel Gibson.
Suit yourself. More prosciutto for the rest of us.
Hey, it was good enough for Jesus.

Atheism:
Fine. More God for the rest of us.
Good luck carrying yourself on the beach.
Heads up: without Jesus, you’re no one’s little sunbeam.
Guess you’ll have to win that sports championship by yourself.

Islam:
There goes your career as a political cartoonist.
Now to decide whether you’re Sunni or Shiite. It should only take about 12,000 years.
Now you can hang with Cat Stevens!
You’re no longer on Santa’s list, but trust me, you are on a list.

Hinduism:
Suit yourself. More Steak-ums for the rest of us.
Spoiler alert: Your next life form is a dragonfly.

Buddhism:
You must respect all living things. Even Nick Nolte.
Your deity’s so fat when he sits around the eternal oneness, he sits AROUND the eternal oneness. Snap!
Pro: Reincarnation. Con: Reincarnation as a fern.

Sunday night blessing

2008-08-24T19:48:00.001-04:00

I haven't done a Sunday night wrap up for a long time but today I just wanted to write a few things and then crash.

Today was a tough early morning our Sharpsburg video team. There is always a little bit of "pressure" because we know we have one service (9 am) to get a good video over to Madras.
We had some equipment failure but the pulled it together - I am proud to serve with all of you. Great job!
I believe the lessons we learned in "Mouthwash" have the potential to change our lives if we dare to live them. It's 7 p.m. on Sunday night and I've received e-mails from people at both campuses telling me of their experiences with "blessing people" (that's different than blessing them out, listen to the message online to hear the difference).
I love the people who have committed themselves to serve with me on staff at Community Christian. The last 12 months have been some of the most effective in our church's history and some of the most stressful for me personally. I would not have made it without them.

For those of you who love to read "things in my head from the last week" I'll get to it tomorrow. I'm just about to drop. It's time to stop today.

Not quiet and not quite there

2008-08-18T22:31:00.001-04:00

This deal with speaking less and therefore having less sin is so hard. I spent a lot of time today doing pretty well - talking less. There were times when it was at the front of my mind. I would find myself wanting to talk but I would think "Is it necessary? is it true? why am I wanting to say this?". And when that was in my mind I did in fact speak less. But then by the end of the day I was right back at it. I was having fun with some friends and quickly my words were many and now as I look back at it - so were the sins of speech. This is frustrating.

This last few weeks of focus on this has proven one thing to me - I'm not near as good as I often think I am. And without grace I would be in deep trouble.

Some of the things in my head this past week

2008-08-17T19:05:00.001-04:00

I've been trying to practice speaking less this week as a part of the Mouthwash series. It is one of the more difficult things I've ever done. However I am very thankful for this series "Beware of my mouth."
Did you read this interview the son of the Hamas leader who is now a follower of Christ?
I actually attended the only game the Braves won this week. Had a great time with my oldest son, but these are dark days for the Bravos.
Just finished watching the forum Rick Warren hosted. If you watched I would love to hear what you thought? Did you learn anything you didn't know? Did it help you in your choice for president? If you didn't get to watch you can here. Or if you prefer reading here are the transcripts.
Wow!!!
The part in here about medical doctors, scary!
I'm thinking about this and how we continue to reach more unconnected people and grow to full devotion as all of that changes.
If you've ever wondered what Tom Cruise, John Travolta, Will Smith and the other hand full of people who believe in Scientology actually believe about the after life - here is an interesting view.
"Where words are many sin is not absent. But he who holds his tongue is wise." Jason had done a great job the last two weeks. I'm looking forward to talking about the positive use of words this coming week.
Don't forget to go here, look at the bottom of the page and vote for what topic you'd like us to address in the "You Asked for it" series.
I don't know what to think about a statistic I read this week - "Pastors are leaving the ministry at the rate 1500 per month". How is that possible?
This makes me smile.
By the way in case you read Jason's blog and wondered what I would do if someone at CCC made that offer. I would go to their house and pick up the check. Yes I know we say we won't come to your house - I would make this an exception. Remember that if you'd like to get me over to your house.

Civil Forum on the Presidency

2008-08-15T09:43:00.001-04:00

Rick Warren, of Purpose Driven Life fame, is also the Pastor of Saddleback Church in California. In addition to that he is quickly becoming the most influential pastor in America. Because of that he is able to get both John McCain and Barak Obama to come to a "Civil Forum on the Presidency." I know some of you are very interested in this political race. If you would like to watch the forum live you can do so on Saturday both on CNN and Fox News. Or if you to watch online you can here

Christian doctor?

2008-08-13T21:24:00.001-04:00

We only have less than 90 days left in this never ending presidential campaign. I for one will be so glad when it's over. One of my main reasons is then I can finally stop getting "Christian" voting guides to hand out to our congregation.

I don't know how to make it any clearer to people - "Community Christian will not be involved in the Republican or Democratic agenda. We don't care about that. We are reaching unconnected people and together growing to full devotion." I am sick of hearing how good of a Christian this candidate is and how this other candidate "says" he is a Christian but he really isn't. I don't want to get another forwarded e-mail about how critical this election is to the future of Christians in our country. You know what's critical to the future of Christians in this country - the continued grace of God.

Let's be clear, I have voted in every major election (I didn't vote in the run off) since I turned 18. I will vote in this election as well. But not once have I voted for a candidate based on whether or not he was or wasn't a Christian. I wouldn't encourage anyone to vote for a politician based on whether or not he was a Christian.

Now this may shock you, but I don't believe a person has to be a sold out follower of Jesus to be a good leader for our country. That doesn't mean that my faith doesn't inform my decision for whom I will vote - it does. I'm just saying faith in Christ alone is not the deciding factor for me.

I guess I should also tell you, that should someone in my family need a doctor I don't choose the physician based on whether or not she has Bible verses printed in her office or a fish symbol in his waiting room. I'm thrilled when I find out that my doctor knows the Lord and is a brother or sister in Christ. But when it comes to choosing a doctor, I want a doctor that did well in medical school and has experience with the problem my family faces.

In the past I have, occasionally, voted for someone who said they followed Jesus. Whether or not they actually follow Jesus with their lives - I don't know AND I don't think the media does either (even the Christian media). But that doesn't really matter since I didn't base my decision to vote for them on whether or not they follow Christ. My faith is a part of my voting decision because it affects every decision I make. But the faith of the candidate was not. What I want is someone who can really lead this country. While we get more and more discussion about their faith (or lack thereof) we sure don't get to hear much about leadership. OH WELL!

Less than 90 days. It can't get here too fast.

Some of the things on my mind this week

2008-08-10T22:29:00.001-04:00

"When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise." I must have said that in my head a couple dozen times on Monday.
First we say goodbye to Skip Caray and then it's Goodbye Solzhenitsyn.
Does it matter to you whether or not the church you attend is racially diverse or not? Why or why not? CNN says we don't want it.
I know several guys who wish they could purchase one of these
This article gets at a topic it looks like we will be addressing in one of the "You asked for it" messages.
"Beware of my mouth" I have my sticker. Do you?
I think someone should make these and they should become a part of every Community Christian service - at both campuses.
These may be the best directional signs of all time.
I had two friends I've been praying to be at church on Sunday. Who have you invited?

They just want to help you?

2008-08-05T22:21:00.001-04:00

“We could have less debt and more fun. And this material world could get a whole lot brighter.” When you watch the video below listen for that line. There are a lot of goofy ideas in this commercial but 2 that really jumped out at me

Our primary goal should be maximum fun with minimum stress.
That our world is only material.

It is an openly honest assessment of our American culture - “We are a nation of consumers and there is nothing wrong with that." Really?

As I watch this I wonder if they really believe that getting us to the Discover card really will "make this material world a better place?" I don't think they do, I think they want more money. But more importantly I wonder how many followers of Christ will actually not even notice the error in the idea - this world is only material. I'm often very discouraged how often we tie the idea of "God blessing us" with how well we are doing financially. I wonder how much American Christianity has fallen in line with our culture and too often our concerns and prayers are about "mostly material things." Before I post the video let me end with a question. What do you think would happen to the church in America if our nation's economy fell into a deep recession?

I lost a friend

2008-08-04T08:23:00.001-04:00

For those of you who don’t like baseball this won’t mean anything to you. I grew up listening to baseball on the radio. I would fall to sleep at night in Mississippi listening to Jack Buck and Harry Caray. When I moved to Georgia in 1984 I began to listen to Harry’s son Skip Caray broadcast the Braves games. He was a fan’s broadcaster. He had a lot of humor but was always honest and during the dark Braves days of the 1980s we needed both. Skip died last night.

I’ll never forget hearing these words in 1992

A lotta room in right-center, if he hits one there we can dance in the streets. The 2-1. Swung, line drive left field! One run is in! Here comes Bream! Here's the throw to the plate! He is...safe! Braves win! Braves win! Braves win! Braves win!...Braves win! They may have to hospitalize Sid Bream; he's down at the bottom of a huge pile at the plate. They help him to his feet. Frank Cabrera got the game winner! The Atlanta Braves are National League champions again! This crowd is going berserk, listen!

Or My all time favorite Skip call

There’ a chopper to Chipper

I’ll miss you Skip.

Some of the stuff in my head this past week

2008-08-03T20:32:00.001-04:00

This has been a crazy week. Does it seem like I say that a lot these days? Getting ready for “Mouthwash” and all the other stuff I’ve done this week has tested my ability to lean into this
The Braves are out of it early this year. Even though that’s true I can’t stop watching. I guess I really am addicted to baseball.
Learning about prayer from Abby. I love this.
If I was a rich man I would have purchased this for my friend Bill for his 40th birthday. Happy Birthday Bill!
For those of you who think I may be leaning toward Obama (and that scares you) here is a great article on McCain’s story
Are you a worrier? Here are 10 things to take off your list. Congratulations Tony on #1.
How women work – here
This was in the front part of my brain all week.

My thought for the day

2008-07-29T22:16:00.001-04:00

I feel like I have a lot of stuff up in the air right now. Some really good things, some not so good things. I have several friends that are struggling and I’ve had some situations that have just been really disappointing. In addition to those things I am very very busy at work. Also I have some things I’m trying to get situated in my family. I guess I’m not much different than anyone else. For whatever reason I find myself really tired.

So tonight I’m reading a little bit in the Old Testament and this verse just jumped out at me.

Take charge! Take heart! Don't be anxious or get discouraged. God, my God, is with you in this; he won't walk off and leave you in the lurch. He's at your side until every last detail is completed…… 1 Chronicles 28:20,21

Some of the stuff in my head this past week

2008-07-27T21:22:00.001-04:00

Okay I know some people (okay most people) didn’t laugh but I laughed at “Jesus Bad Room Mate.” Today was a good way to finish up the series “In the Groove.”
Have you seen this very cool.
This has been a very full very hard week. Some very difficult conversations. Mostly my head was full of how much I didn’t want to have the conversations. Now that they are done I believe we have made some very important moves. I hope to be able to tell you about them on Vision Day in September.
Wow! This guy has something wrong with him.
Loved getting ready for the first Discovery Class at CCC Madras. Many of us sacrificed and prayed to see this campus started. It’s very exciting to see it come about.
T-Bone for president
Praying we as a country see the light
I think this is a funny look at the media’s worship of the next messiah. Hard to believe it was in TIME
My favorite quote of the week “Christians taking credit for spiritual growth is like a rooster taking credit for the sun coming up.” Brian Jones
I also loved Brian’s list of things that have helped him grow. Among the one’s on his list that have spurred me to growth – here are my top three – Suffering, God’s silence when I pray, God putting hurting people in my life.
Mouthwash

Worship resources for adding good

2008-07-27T20:55:00.001-04:00

Listen to the relevant worship music from LifeChurch that inspires thousands of peoples lives. If you have iTunes on your computer click that link below and the file will download to iTunes and will update each week. If you don’t have iTunes click on the RSS feed. When you see the page open you will see a description of that week’s worship set and then just below it there will be a file listed (it will have a symbol for headphones by it). Right click on that file and choose “save target as” this will save the file to your computer.

Oklahoma City Campus Worship - iTunes or RSS
South Oklahoma City Campus Worship - iTunes or RSS
Tulsa Campus Worship - iTunes or RSS

Stop the pandering

2008-07-25T16:31:00.002-04:00

A few days ago I asked you to tell me what you want from the next president of our country. We are to assume that they have more and better information than we do. I should say I at least hope they have more and better information than we do. All of my info is filtered through so many people with their own agendas.

Here is what I want. I want a leader. I want someone whom I can respect even when he makes policies I personally don’t like. By a leader I don’t mean someone who can “inspire hope” by great speeches or media sound bites. I want a leader – someone who will stop trying to figure out what “we the people” want him to do and will figure out what is the right thing to do. The truth is most of the problems we face as a country will probably require solutions that most of “us the people” will not like. I would like someone that can face the heat of making the right choice even if it means he looses the next election. I would like someone who cares more about our country 50 years from now when he is dead than he does about his own personal gain. I want him to do the hard thing not the popular thing or the thing that will bring him the most personal gain. Please someone lead us! We might not agree with you but eventually we would respect you and who knows you might start a trend.

Again this election year I don’t see this in the rhetoric of any national candidate. The Bible tells us to pray for our leaders this is my prayer – “God help them care more about what is right than what we want. Help them lead us to do what is right, not what the majority of people (including me) think is right.”

I love sports

2008-07-22T12:34:00.001-04:00

For the majority of you who didn’t watch the ESPY awards (I only saw part) you missed this. If you don’t love sports then you can feel free and just not watch. For the rest of us, six back and enjoy the next 8 minutes

What do you want?

2008-07-21T21:55:00.001-04:00

I was having a conversation with a friend about the state of our world. We of course have limited information about all the problems but that does not keep us from having solutions. As we talked about the people that lead us I asked him “What do you want from our next president? Assume that he will know more about the world situations than you know or I know. Assume that he might not do what we would want him to do. What do you want from him in that situation? Or does the president have to do everything the way I would want?” Well we had some fun over the next few minutes playing with that idea.

I’m wondering if we can have that conversation here on the blog. Set aside the ideas about taxation or the economy that you hold. Set aside your political slant. Assume that the president has more information than you have about the problems in our country. Assume he may have to do things you would not want him to do. What do you want from him in that situation?

Some of the stuff in my head this past week

2008-07-20T19:42:00.001-04:00

CCC Madras had their first baptisms (that's right more than one) Sunday. Because I wasn't speaking I got to attend. YEA GOD!
"When words are many sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise." I'm trying to get ready for "Mouthwash" the next series. That's our memory verse. The more I pray and get ready for this series the more I realize how much I need it.
I can't tell you what they are yet but there are some opportunities being offered us (Community Christian) that are mind blowing to me.
Agree with him or not he is one of the most influential leaders of our time and these are his eight principles of leadership.
Jib jab is back. This makes the campaign bearable for me.
Something to look forward to….okay maybe I’m already included in the older part. I'm certainly in the happy part.
Love to watch this guy play but the situation he has created is a mess for the cheese heads.
I can't believe I agree with this guy but he got this right.
These guys are making me scream out loud at the TV... not in a good way.

Change lives not laws

2008-07-17T21:14:00.001-04:00

Did you know that while Christianity is loosing ground in the US it’s taking China by storm. Here is a great quote from Philip Yancey’s book What's So Amazing About Grace.

One China expert estimates that the revival in China represents the greatest numerical revival in the history of the church. In an odd way, the government hostility ultimately worked to the church’s advantage. Shut out of the power structures, Chinese Christians devoted themselves to worship and evangelism, the original mission of the church, and did not much concern themselves with politics. They concentrated on changing lives, not changing laws

I love that last line “The concentrated on changing lives, not changing laws.” Sure makes me wonder what we could do in this country if we would take the tremendous amount of money and effort that is involved in “christian politics” (whatever that is) and we put it toward changing lives not laws.

It’s never just one thing

2008-07-15T20:54:00.001-04:00

I have a tendency to talk about the struggles I have with sin as isolated instances. “I really blew it the other day when I…..”. Or when I’m with an accountability partner I’ll talk about “I’m really struggling with…..” But the truth is it’s never just one thing.

One of the most frustrating things about my life is that sin saturates so much of my life so easily. In other words when sin raging loose in my heart it never remains contained in one area of my life. For example when I handle anger incorrectly, I also tend to struggle with lust, I eat too much and my desire to lie and hide increases. Sin works that way. It's never just "this area of my life." It pollutes completely. It’s like an infection. It might start in one part of your body but if you don’t deal with it, it travels through the whole body.

I write this in part because this has all recently become real clear to me and I want to record it. After all in some ways this blog is a log of my life. But I also share it because I’m hoping someone else will read it and not be fooled (like I was for a long time) into thinking “If I just didn’t struggle with this then….” Hey, it’s never just one thing. Sin is poison and even though it kills us we tend to love it’s taste.

Clean the filter

2008-07-14T22:09:00.001-04:00

Recently I’ve been hearing about the American Family Association’s boycott of McDonald’s because of a their supposed endorsement of the “Homosexual Agenda”. It reminded me of just a few weeks ago when the AFA was in the news because of their commitment to reporting the news from a “Christian perspective.” To do that they often run filters on news reports to remove offensive words. The following is a recent example when that didn’t work out so well. This is copied from Foxsports.com

THE American Family Association has a strict policy to replace the word "gay" with "homosexual" on its news website - but it created a problem with sprinter Tyson Gay.

The association's computer's auto-corrected the US sprint star's name to Tyson Homosexual.

Here's an extract of an Associated Press story as it ran on the association's OneNewsNow Christian news website:

Tyson Homosexual was a blur in blue, sprinting 100 meters faster than anyone ever has. His time of 9.68 seconds at the U.S. Olympic trials Sunday doesn't count as a world record, because it was run with the help of a too-strong tailwind.

Here's what does matter: Homosexual qualified for his first Summer Games team and served notice he's certainly someone to watch in Beijing.

"It means a lot to me," the 25-year-old Homosexual said. "I'm glad my body could do it, because now I know I have it in me."

The embarrassing blunder has since been fixed, although it's still visible on the site's search page.

You can read the original article here (there is a great picture there that would probably make the filter explode).

Some of the stuff in my head this past week

2008-07-13T18:13:00.001-04:00

I spent a lot of time thinking about the future this week. I had some writing that I had to do but a lot of time to just think about where God is taking Community Christian.
There are some Issues with the building project at the Sharpsburg campus – that's on my mind a lot. PRAY!
This was an easy read but wow is it a good book.
This was in my head this week – a lot “Oh my gosh I’m speaking again. I wish I had more time off.”
“I need to get to sleep it’s not like the Braves are going to score anyway."
Love him or hate him here is a fairly extensive article about Rush Limbaugh.
This is a dumb idea. BUT with that said I hope someone get’s me one for my collection of “stupid consumer stuff Christians make and buy.”
Who knew there was data on this? How about you - Pop, Coke or Soda?
The other thing that dominated my head this week is how proud I am of Community Christian. We make so many changes around here in an effort to reach more unconnected people and for the most part you stay on track. I am most blessed to get to be a part of what God is doing here. Please keep praying. I believe great things are head for us this fall and in the next year.

Do you ever dream?

2008-07-11T23:15:00.001-04:00

I spent sometime today talking with someone about dreams they have for their future. Things that they would like to do to make a big difference in the world. Most of you know that my dream is all about reaching people who don’t like church in our area and around the world. Do you ever dream about what God could do through you? If so what do you dream about?

At least look at the evidence

2008-07-10T21:17:00.001-04:00

Have you ever been standing near by and you see something about to happen and you say to yourself "Oh this is going to be bad." You see a car accident about to happen and you want to just scream "Hey, Watch Out!" I feel like that so much these days with regard to a situation that has become so common that people think it's just normal.

Let me get you to it this way. For ten years, Dr. Nancy Clatworthy, a sociologist from Ohio State, has been researching couples who have lived together. Her survey asked questions about “finances, household matters, recreation, demonstration of affection, and friends.” In every area, the couples who had lived together before marriage disagreed more often than couples who had not.

Clatworthy also observes, “The finding that surprised me most concerned sex. Couples who have lived together before marriage disagreed about [sex] most often.”

Sex and commitment can’t be separated. The research shows that total intimacy without total commitment leads to concerns of breaking up, often “extreme unhappiness,” and more disagreement—especially about sex.

More recent studies on “hooking up,” or sex without any commitments, reveal the same findings:

Adolescent gynecologist, Melisa Holmes, writes in Girlology: Hangups, Hook-Ups and Holding Out, “They don’t learn to build that emotional intimacy before they get physically intimate. In the long term, that develops bad relationship habits. They may grow up not knowing how to connect with a partner on an intimate level.” The new research seems to verify earlier studies on sex that commitment is an essential element in truly satisfying intercourse.

In addition to all that we've known for years that if you live before marriage you are more likely to get divorced that people who didn't live together. Yet I watch people, people I know, seemingly smart people just go with the flow. I see parents watch their kids go into this and they say nothing. I say something to them about it and they write it off as, "You're a preacher and that's what you have to say. But it's just like being married." I want to just scream "No it's not! Why don't you at least look at the evidence before you decide to blow up this relationship you say matters to you."

A church by any other name

2008-07-09T14:42:00.001-04:00

Okay maybe that is where you are from and maybe it didn’t matter in 1843, BUT I would have changed this name, wouldn’t you?

Cross and the Country

2008-07-08T18:20:00.002-04:00

Look at the image below. What do you think when you see that? Before you read the context behind it under the image, what’s your initial reaction?

Someone sent me this after my fourth of July post (I think they thought it would be right up my alley). I did some research on it and found out , this statue was built about 2 years ago by a church in Memphis, TN. If you haven’t figured it out yet, the building in the background is a church. It’s World Overcomers a “mega church” that includes “a school, a bowling alley, a roller rink, a bookstore and…12,000 members.”

Now after my post last week you know how much I love our country. You also know, if you are a regular reader, that I want Jesus to be recognized as Lord over the whole world – especially our little corner here in Coweta/Fayette. That being said there is something me that says that statue isn’t right. What do you think?

I love this story

2008-07-07T23:15:00.001-04:00

This is one of my favorite “news” stories of the last year. I had heard about it through a friend. Finally someone sent me the clip.

Some of the stuff in my head this past week

2008-07-06T22:13:00.001-04:00

I think this looks cool and if I were 18 I would probably want to ride it. Now I just think of how long I would hurt when I crashed.
We’re already working on the series that will kick off the school year in August. It’s called Mouthwash. It’s going to be great.
How can this happen in our country? Don’t write it off as happening somewhere else – we have to make sure it doesn’t happen around us. Don't be indifferent to what's going on around you - engage and make a difference where you can.
Today (Sunday) I was thinking about getting a portable baptistery for Community Christian Madras. They have their first baptism coming up. YEA GOD! Pray for the 60,000, especially pray for your 4.
If you don’t know I love the Atlanta Braves. They are in my head – a lot…hits when men on base..hits with men on base….don’t swing at the first pitch every time.... Oh well we won a great game today.
I believe this article is true.
My wife had a birthday this week. We had a great meal at one of her favorite restaurants. 29 years now we've celebrated birthday's together. I'm blessed.
I tried to read up on Obama's tax plans
While Christianity is struggling in the U.S. it's a different story around the world. Look what God is doing in China. It can happen here. Let's pray and be open to God using us.