Morning: We will be looking at the "Disciplined Faith." The sermon will focus on Hebrews 12:1-13. The author will compel us to consider Jesus in order to avoid growing weary in the faith and to prevent losing heart.
Evening: We will continue looking at evangelism. We will look at few helpful gospel presentations. We will focus on the message more than methods.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Sermon Review 1-25-09
Morning: The sermon, "Faith Explained," examined Hebrews 11:1-40. The author of Hebrews reminded us that without faith it is impossible to please God. Faith we were told, "is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" (11:1). Throughout the chapter the author demonstrates faith by citing example after example.
Evening: We looked at the questions: 1) what it evangelism? and 2) what is the gospel. Evangelism is sharing the gospel in the power of the Spirit and leaving the results to God. The gospel is the message that man is sinful and separated from his holy Creator and that the Creator, took on human flesh in the person of Jesus Christ, lived a sinless life, died on the cross as a substitutionary atonement, was buried and rose again on the third day and now reigns as king over all. The gospel calls sinful humanity to turn from sin to the living God through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Evening: We looked at the questions: 1) what it evangelism? and 2) what is the gospel. Evangelism is sharing the gospel in the power of the Spirit and leaving the results to God. The gospel is the message that man is sinful and separated from his holy Creator and that the Creator, took on human flesh in the person of Jesus Christ, lived a sinless life, died on the cross as a substitutionary atonement, was buried and rose again on the third day and now reigns as king over all. The gospel calls sinful humanity to turn from sin to the living God through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
A Prayer for Our President
Dr. Albert Mohler posted a prayer for our new president on his blog. I read it until today and it blew me away. After reading his prayer for President Obama, I had an even greater appreciation for Dr. Mohler's ministry. It is a good starting point for praying for our new President, Barack Obama, and his family. You can find a copy of his prayer here.
Sermon Preview 1-25-2009
Morning: We will be looking at "Faith Demonstrated" this coming Sunday. If the proper response to Jesus' high priesthood is to draw near to God in obedient faith, what exactly does that look like. The author of Hebrews explains and exposes what faith looks like in Hebrews 11:1-40. The focus of the passage is that without faith it is impossible to please God.
Evening: We will continue our study on Evangelism. During this service we will ask (an hopefully answer) the questions: "What is evangelism?" and "What is the Gospel?".
Evening: We will continue our study on Evangelism. During this service we will ask (an hopefully answer) the questions: "What is evangelism?" and "What is the Gospel?".
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Sermon Review 1-18-09
Morning: We began On Faith, a new series of sermons, from Hebrews 10:19-13:25. This sermon was entitled "Faith Compelled." In the passage under consideration, Hebrews 10:19-39, the author expresses some practical ways to respond to Jesus's priestly ministry. The theme of this passage is to draw near to God. The idea of drawing near to God is to come into his presence in worship and adoration. The author instructs us to draw near with 1) a sincere heart--that is to have a heart that has been transformed by the work of the Spirit of God; 2) in full assurance of faith--that is confidence in our profession as well as confidence in the object of our faith, the Lord; 3) have our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience--a reminder of when the priests would sprinkle blood and water on the worshippers symbolizing the washing that would occur through regeneration; and 4) having our bodies washed with pure water--possibly a reference to the the symbolic act of baptism which demonstrates the inward reality of regeneration.
Other practical ways to respond are: 1) to hold unswervingly to the truth, because of God's faithfulness; 2) consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds; 3) Meeting together to encourage one another, because of the nearness of Christ's coming and the harsh reality that those who abandon God's will have no hope; 4) to remember what all we have already endured, the promised reality to come, and the cost of walking away; and 5) to endure until the end.
Since Jesus is our great high priest, and since through his death he has opened access to the Most Holy Place in Heaven, that is, the very throne room of God, then we should draw near to God in faith and obedience, pressing forward in that faith until Christ's return or until he calls us home.
Evening: We looked at some of the obstacle to evangelism. Some of the obstacles we looked at were fear (of what people would say, of rejection); ignorance (the inability to answer a question or objection; not knowing how to present the gospel); the fear of making matters worse (what if I botch it); Apathy (no concern for the lost); the lack of non-Christian friends, the lack of time, and a few others. We also looked at the reality that Christ has called us to be his witnesses and that he equips us for the task. We must simply approach the task with prayerful attitudes and trust the Holy Spirit to help share the message faithfully.
Other practical ways to respond are: 1) to hold unswervingly to the truth, because of God's faithfulness; 2) consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds; 3) Meeting together to encourage one another, because of the nearness of Christ's coming and the harsh reality that those who abandon God's will have no hope; 4) to remember what all we have already endured, the promised reality to come, and the cost of walking away; and 5) to endure until the end.
Since Jesus is our great high priest, and since through his death he has opened access to the Most Holy Place in Heaven, that is, the very throne room of God, then we should draw near to God in faith and obedience, pressing forward in that faith until Christ's return or until he calls us home.
Evening: We looked at some of the obstacle to evangelism. Some of the obstacles we looked at were fear (of what people would say, of rejection); ignorance (the inability to answer a question or objection; not knowing how to present the gospel); the fear of making matters worse (what if I botch it); Apathy (no concern for the lost); the lack of non-Christian friends, the lack of time, and a few others. We also looked at the reality that Christ has called us to be his witnesses and that he equips us for the task. We must simply approach the task with prayerful attitudes and trust the Holy Spirit to help share the message faithfully.
A Brief Family Update
This past weekend was full of excitement. Sunday morning, Monticello, hosted a welcome home fellowship for Delia, Sophia, and me. It was well attended by family, friends, and church family. The meal was excellent and the gifts were thoughtful. We appreciate the powerful display of love and concern for our family. We also had more family come in to meet Sophia yesterday. She really enjoyed being chased by her cousins. She is a very social baby. She enjoys interacting with people.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Daddy Duty
Yesterday I had Daddy duty. We don't call it baby sitting when mommy has to be out and daddy cares for Ms. Sophia. First of all, she's as much mine as she is Delia's. Second of all, the Lord has given me the responsibility of shepherding Sophia as the head of the household. Third of all, it was an opportunity to spend time playing with my little girl. She had daddy running here and running there. She likes it when I chase her. When I catch her, I give her kisses on the cheek and she giggles. Although it requires a lot of energy to chase her, I can't call it work. Her giggle just lifts my spirits.
It's hard to believe that we have been home over a week. The days are passing so fast. Sometimes I fear I am going to blink, and it will be her wedding day or college graduation and then she'll be moving to the next phase of life. Don't get me wrong, it isn't that I don't won't her to grow up. I just don't want to miss the important stuff. I am enjoying the days that God has given us, and I pray for many more. There is just so much happening that it would be easy to miss it or to miss out. Being a father is a calling that God has placed in my life. I realize that all my ability to minister is to be measured, in part, by my successes as a husband and father (see 1 Tim 3:4-5; Titus 1:6). I am prayerfully seeking to become the man God has called me to be.
Not all Daddy duty is fun. Sometimes, you have to change really dirty diapers. Sometimes, your precious children get hurt. Sometimes, your precious children rebel against you. Sometimes, you have to discipline them. Parenting is hardwork, when its done right. It requires diligence and vigilence; it requires a lifetime of love and care. There will be successes and failures, hardship and heartache, joy and laughter. The enormity of the task forces us to our knees in prayer, crying out to our heavenly Father for guidance, protection, assistance, forgiveness, and endurance. Our great hope is not in our ability to be good parents, but in the grace of God that enables us to be godly parents.
It's hard to believe that we have been home over a week. The days are passing so fast. Sometimes I fear I am going to blink, and it will be her wedding day or college graduation and then she'll be moving to the next phase of life. Don't get me wrong, it isn't that I don't won't her to grow up. I just don't want to miss the important stuff. I am enjoying the days that God has given us, and I pray for many more. There is just so much happening that it would be easy to miss it or to miss out. Being a father is a calling that God has placed in my life. I realize that all my ability to minister is to be measured, in part, by my successes as a husband and father (see 1 Tim 3:4-5; Titus 1:6). I am prayerfully seeking to become the man God has called me to be.
Not all Daddy duty is fun. Sometimes, you have to change really dirty diapers. Sometimes, your precious children get hurt. Sometimes, your precious children rebel against you. Sometimes, you have to discipline them. Parenting is hardwork, when its done right. It requires diligence and vigilence; it requires a lifetime of love and care. There will be successes and failures, hardship and heartache, joy and laughter. The enormity of the task forces us to our knees in prayer, crying out to our heavenly Father for guidance, protection, assistance, forgiveness, and endurance. Our great hope is not in our ability to be good parents, but in the grace of God that enables us to be godly parents.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Meet and Greet
This coming Sunday January 18th, 2009, Monticello will be hosting a meet and greet fellowship dinner immediately after the Sunday morning service. This event is an opportunity to meet, Sophia and enjoy a good meal. Everyone is invited and welcome.
Sermon Preview 1-18-2009
Morning: This Sunday we will begin our final series of sermons from Hebrews entitled On Faith. The sermon entitled, Faith Compelled, comes from Hebrews 10:19-39. After concluding his discussion of the high priesthood of Jesus, the author of Hebrews now begins to address the proper response to Christ's ministry. The focus of the sermon is the need for endurance in order to inherit the promises. The author gives several practical ways to enjoy our relationship to the Lord.
Evening: We will begin our look at Evangelism. We will look at some of the fears that prevent us from sharing our faith.
Evening: We will begin our look at Evangelism. We will look at some of the fears that prevent us from sharing our faith.
Sermon Review 1-11-2009
Morning: The sermon, entitled, "Guarding Your Heart" came from Proverbs 4:20-27. We looked at the fatherly words of Solomon as he urged his son to guard his heart for it is the wellspring of life. We were reminded of the fact that Solomon wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and also spoke as the Lord to his children. The message focused on reading, meditating, studying and memorizing the word of God. The passage instructs the child to bind the words of his father to his heart, in order to walk the straight and narrow.
Evening: No services.
Evening: No services.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Returning to Normal
Things are drifting back to normal. Although, normal is different than it used to be. Where two dwelt, now three abide. Sophia is settling in. I preached yesterday and returned to work today. Sophia has enjoyed all the company and attention she received this weekend. It is wonderful to back home and to see life returning to normal. The next several days will probably be busy, but I'll post when I can.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
A Blessed Life
It has been a rather quiet day here at home. Yes, at home, it feels good to be able to write those words. We have had several phone calls and some of our family has come for a visit. It is good to eat homecooked food. It was good to stretch out in my recliner. It is awesome to see my daughter sleeping in her bed, play with her toys, and filling our house with her presence. I am a man who has had more blessed days than most, I think. Unfortunately, I don't always see them at time, but when I reflect back I can see how truly fortunate I am.
Yesterday was a great day (but a little stressful, too). Sophia took the flight from Guatemala to Alanta good. She smiled and laughed a little on take off. I gave her little pieces of gum until we got to cruising altitude (don't panic mothers, doctors swear that gum doesn't bind up the intestines). She napped about an hour on the plane. She played with the guy sitting next to us, and the people sitting in front of us. She did pretty good until the last 30 minutes of the flight, when she decided it had been long enough--she wanted to run around.
We got to Atlanta and began the race to reenter the country. I say race because it is a time consuming ordeal to enter the country go through customs/immigration (which you have to do when you are adopting). We landed at 6:35 pm with a takeoff time of 8:00pm. Around 7:30 we handed our documents to one of the officers, who in turn put it stack along with several others. At 8:10 the called us to the desk, informed us that we were finished, and told us that at midnight she would offically be a U.S. citizen. We headed toward the reticket counter, because we were sure we lost our flight, when one of the workers informed us that our flight had been delayed and we had a few minutes to get to our gate. We handed our bags to some of the workers there and made a mad dash for our gate. The twenty minute delay which had purchased us just enough time to make it for last call turned into a fifty minute delay as we rounded the corner to our gate.
Sophia napped most of the flight from Atlanta to Nashville. When we finally got off the plane we were greeted by our parents and several members of our church family. I was so excited to see all of them. Their love was expressed in the simple act of holding signs, shouting welcome, and cry tears of joy. It is hard for me to into words the joy I felt. The image of that moment is etched into my mind. I will forever be grateful for outpouring of their love.
After sometime of catching up and showing off Sophia we retreated to the baggage claim. We concluded after they shut down the converyor belt and turned off the lights that our bags didn't make it to Nashville. However, a very helpful woman who worked in baggage claim informed me that at least two out of three of my bags were in route to Nashville. I was also informed that if I waited, and my third bag didn't show, they would mail it to me. So, I we waited. When the flight containing some of our luggage arrived I went to the conveyor to wait. God blessed us with the quick arrival of all three bags. And then we were off. We stopped at my mom and dad's for a late night snack (which was actually our lunch and supper) and then we headed home. A very tired, Sophia, was asleep when we got home (very late) and we put her in her little bed. After a little unpacking I laid down and reflected. Months of waiting, frustration, and prayer had finally come to fruition. Our little girl is home.
Yesterday was a great day (but a little stressful, too). Sophia took the flight from Guatemala to Alanta good. She smiled and laughed a little on take off. I gave her little pieces of gum until we got to cruising altitude (don't panic mothers, doctors swear that gum doesn't bind up the intestines). She napped about an hour on the plane. She played with the guy sitting next to us, and the people sitting in front of us. She did pretty good until the last 30 minutes of the flight, when she decided it had been long enough--she wanted to run around.
We got to Atlanta and began the race to reenter the country. I say race because it is a time consuming ordeal to enter the country go through customs/immigration (which you have to do when you are adopting). We landed at 6:35 pm with a takeoff time of 8:00pm. Around 7:30 we handed our documents to one of the officers, who in turn put it stack along with several others. At 8:10 the called us to the desk, informed us that we were finished, and told us that at midnight she would offically be a U.S. citizen. We headed toward the reticket counter, because we were sure we lost our flight, when one of the workers informed us that our flight had been delayed and we had a few minutes to get to our gate. We handed our bags to some of the workers there and made a mad dash for our gate. The twenty minute delay which had purchased us just enough time to make it for last call turned into a fifty minute delay as we rounded the corner to our gate.
Sophia napped most of the flight from Atlanta to Nashville. When we finally got off the plane we were greeted by our parents and several members of our church family. I was so excited to see all of them. Their love was expressed in the simple act of holding signs, shouting welcome, and cry tears of joy. It is hard for me to into words the joy I felt. The image of that moment is etched into my mind. I will forever be grateful for outpouring of their love.
After sometime of catching up and showing off Sophia we retreated to the baggage claim. We concluded after they shut down the converyor belt and turned off the lights that our bags didn't make it to Nashville. However, a very helpful woman who worked in baggage claim informed me that at least two out of three of my bags were in route to Nashville. I was also informed that if I waited, and my third bag didn't show, they would mail it to me. So, I we waited. When the flight containing some of our luggage arrived I went to the conveyor to wait. God blessed us with the quick arrival of all three bags. And then we were off. We stopped at my mom and dad's for a late night snack (which was actually our lunch and supper) and then we headed home. A very tired, Sophia, was asleep when we got home (very late) and we put her in her little bed. After a little unpacking I laid down and reflected. Months of waiting, frustration, and prayer had finally come to fruition. Our little girl is home.
Home
Home! Well, almost. We've made a quick pit stop in Bowling Green for a bite to eat. We'll be home before too long. We were greatly surprised by a large group of family and church family at the airport. We were truly touched, we love you all.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Getting Ready
We are approximately twelve hours away from Nashville. We are in the process of getting ready so that we can head to the airport after breakfast. Our flight is scheduled to leave at 2:08 pm. Hopefully, we will see you all real soon.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Counting Down
Well, now we are counting down the hours until we are home. We are less than twenty-four hours away from departing Guatemala, and slightly more than twenty-eight hours from home. Looking back on this time, I can't help but thank the Lord for kindness toward us. These days have been filled with love, laughter, and dirty diapers. We have been homesick for awhile, but we have counted everyday as gift. We know that once we are home, we will have to pickup where we left off with all our other responsibilities. These days were special, in that, we have been able to focus specifically on building a relationship with our daughter. We look forward to seeing you all soon. God bless.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Sophia Update 1-7-09
Well, I have just gotten back from the Embassy. We now have Sophia's passport, with her visa in it, in hand. We are travel ready. When we get back into the states (Atlanta), we will give the packets they gave us to the immigration officers at the airport. At that time she will be a United States citizen. And then its all over but the flying (and driving). Lord willing, we will be back in Provo Friday night (late). Sophia's fever appears to be gone, but she is still not feeling well. Keep praying. We'll see you soon.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Approved
I apologize for not posting sooner. Let me start by stating what you really want to know: our appointment went good today. They approved our adoption and we pick up Sophia's visa tomorrow afternoon. Now for details of the day and the events of appointment.
We got up a little after five this morning. We have made friends with a woman who was in the process of finalizing her 2nd adoption. Her appointment was today as well. So we followed her to the embassy. We left around 6:30 am for our 7:15 appointment. Our cab dropped us off outside of the embassy (picture a gray concrete bunker) and we made our way through a sea of people, most of whom were their to get tourist visas. We were met by our lawyer's assistant who had held our place in line, and she began walking us through what would take place.
Then we entered the building, where our bag was searched thoroughly. Then we made our way into a medium sized waiting room. The lawyer's assistant took Sophia's passport and our money and went and stood in line. When she brought us our receipt, she told us they would call our name, we would line up at door number 10 (it was the only door in a row of windows). They call your name by number (we were #2) and then when one family comes out the next one goes in. They called our name and we went into door #10. Imagine a 2 ft. X 3 ft. room with two chairs facing a giant window, like at a gas station in a bad neighborhood. Then imagine a tiny speaker, set off to the side, that had been installed by a drive-thru speaker company.
They swore us in, asked us some questions, made a few corrections on one of our forms, and then had us initial the changes. During this process, Sophia decided she wanted to play high-5. She gave mommy a high-five, she gave daddy a high-5, and when the nice gentleman behind the glass said something abouting her giving high-5s, she turned and offered to give him five. He held his hand up to the glass, and she reached out and gave him five. He informed us that was "cool." And then it happened. He picked up this big rubber stamp, pressed it into a red ink pad, and then with gusto, he pounded the word "Approved" on our paper. The deed was done. No going back. The reality that we have know since December 2007, that Sophia was our daughter, became offically recognized by the United States government. We were congradulated and sent outside to wait for our next step.
We waited about fifteen or thirty minutes for them to call us again, this time to window eight (ventana ocho, for you bilingual types). They swore us in again, asked us a couple of questions, informed us that we could pick up Sophia's visa tomorrow around 3:30 pm. And we sat back down and waited for our friend to be called back. It is impossible to explain the sense of relief I felt. I listened to several of the families describe the horrors of their adoption. Several of them had waited between two and three years for this moment. They had struggle after struggle, problem after problem. Out of the few that I was able to meet several had nearly lost their children on more than one occassion. I couldn't help compare our experience with theirs and praise God for his grace. Our adoption, although it took over a year, went far faster and much smoother than most of the people we have met. God in his grace, brought us through, and now has taught us anew, how mighty his hand truly is.
After, our friend finished we went and ate breakfast together and then went to a little market to look at the "traditional" Guatemalan items (we bought a dress and blanket). Sophia was acting tired, so when we got back to the room we laid her down. She would lay awhile, and cry awhile. We think she has a fever. She slept most of the afternoon, but got up for supper. I was going to do this post while she napped, but my facebook account had a virus, so I had to download a virus scanner, run tests on the computer, delete the false posts from me on peoples facebook pages, change my passwords, and by the time I got most of that finished, Sophia need attention. I don't think we have ever been more grateful for your prayers today, especially in light of the fact that God taught us how powerfully he worked on our behalf. We are forever in your debt, we love you all very much. Please, keep praying for us. Pray that we will be the parents God called us to be. Pray for Sophia to feel better. Pray for our safe return. And please, praise our great God with us for his gracious kindness. God bless
We got up a little after five this morning. We have made friends with a woman who was in the process of finalizing her 2nd adoption. Her appointment was today as well. So we followed her to the embassy. We left around 6:30 am for our 7:15 appointment. Our cab dropped us off outside of the embassy (picture a gray concrete bunker) and we made our way through a sea of people, most of whom were their to get tourist visas. We were met by our lawyer's assistant who had held our place in line, and she began walking us through what would take place.
Then we entered the building, where our bag was searched thoroughly. Then we made our way into a medium sized waiting room. The lawyer's assistant took Sophia's passport and our money and went and stood in line. When she brought us our receipt, she told us they would call our name, we would line up at door number 10 (it was the only door in a row of windows). They call your name by number (we were #2) and then when one family comes out the next one goes in. They called our name and we went into door #10. Imagine a 2 ft. X 3 ft. room with two chairs facing a giant window, like at a gas station in a bad neighborhood. Then imagine a tiny speaker, set off to the side, that had been installed by a drive-thru speaker company.
They swore us in, asked us some questions, made a few corrections on one of our forms, and then had us initial the changes. During this process, Sophia decided she wanted to play high-5. She gave mommy a high-five, she gave daddy a high-5, and when the nice gentleman behind the glass said something abouting her giving high-5s, she turned and offered to give him five. He held his hand up to the glass, and she reached out and gave him five. He informed us that was "cool." And then it happened. He picked up this big rubber stamp, pressed it into a red ink pad, and then with gusto, he pounded the word "Approved" on our paper. The deed was done. No going back. The reality that we have know since December 2007, that Sophia was our daughter, became offically recognized by the United States government. We were congradulated and sent outside to wait for our next step.
We waited about fifteen or thirty minutes for them to call us again, this time to window eight (ventana ocho, for you bilingual types). They swore us in again, asked us a couple of questions, informed us that we could pick up Sophia's visa tomorrow around 3:30 pm. And we sat back down and waited for our friend to be called back. It is impossible to explain the sense of relief I felt. I listened to several of the families describe the horrors of their adoption. Several of them had waited between two and three years for this moment. They had struggle after struggle, problem after problem. Out of the few that I was able to meet several had nearly lost their children on more than one occassion. I couldn't help compare our experience with theirs and praise God for his grace. Our adoption, although it took over a year, went far faster and much smoother than most of the people we have met. God in his grace, brought us through, and now has taught us anew, how mighty his hand truly is.
After, our friend finished we went and ate breakfast together and then went to a little market to look at the "traditional" Guatemalan items (we bought a dress and blanket). Sophia was acting tired, so when we got back to the room we laid her down. She would lay awhile, and cry awhile. We think she has a fever. She slept most of the afternoon, but got up for supper. I was going to do this post while she napped, but my facebook account had a virus, so I had to download a virus scanner, run tests on the computer, delete the false posts from me on peoples facebook pages, change my passwords, and by the time I got most of that finished, Sophia need attention. I don't think we have ever been more grateful for your prayers today, especially in light of the fact that God taught us how powerfully he worked on our behalf. We are forever in your debt, we love you all very much. Please, keep praying for us. Pray that we will be the parents God called us to be. Pray for Sophia to feel better. Pray for our safe return. And please, praise our great God with us for his gracious kindness. God bless
Sunday, January 4, 2009
I Miss Church
"Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (Heb. 10:25, NIV).
I am really missing church. We have not found anywhere to attend while we are here. Although we are doing our daily devotions and family time, it still feels like something is missing. For the last thirteen years, church has been a central part of my week. I (usually) go twice on Sundays and once on Wednesdays. I (usually) get to spend time with God's people through out the week, but I specifically love coming together with the congregation for the purpose of worshipping our Great Redeemer and studying his Word. The old hymn, Wonderful Words of Life, sums it up well, "Sweetly echo the gospel call, wonderful words of life; offer pardon and peace to all, wonderful words of life; Jesus, only Savior, sanctify forever." Through the wonderful words of life we are set free from sin and bondage, we are ushered into God's presence where we are transformed from wretched sinners into glorious saints, and through that Word we are made aware of our glorious inheritance in Christ Jesus Our Lord. I miss the hymns. I miss the fellowship. I miss preaching. I miss it all. I miss you all. Please, continue to pray for our safe and swift return, and Lord willing, we will be worshipping with you come next Sunday.
I am really missing church. We have not found anywhere to attend while we are here. Although we are doing our daily devotions and family time, it still feels like something is missing. For the last thirteen years, church has been a central part of my week. I (usually) go twice on Sundays and once on Wednesdays. I (usually) get to spend time with God's people through out the week, but I specifically love coming together with the congregation for the purpose of worshipping our Great Redeemer and studying his Word. The old hymn, Wonderful Words of Life, sums it up well, "Sweetly echo the gospel call, wonderful words of life; offer pardon and peace to all, wonderful words of life; Jesus, only Savior, sanctify forever." Through the wonderful words of life we are set free from sin and bondage, we are ushered into God's presence where we are transformed from wretched sinners into glorious saints, and through that Word we are made aware of our glorious inheritance in Christ Jesus Our Lord. I miss the hymns. I miss the fellowship. I miss preaching. I miss it all. I miss you all. Please, continue to pray for our safe and swift return, and Lord willing, we will be worshipping with you come next Sunday.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
One I Wished I Had Finished Last Year
I have been trying to work my way through a large stack of books since April. However, books that need reading have a way of multiplying. I have made it about half way through my stack of books, but I have been generating a list of new books to get (and read) for 2009. As Solomon once said, "Of the making of many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh" (Eccl. 12:12, ESV). There are more books produced in a year than any person can read, so we have to set priorities. In order to finish as many as possible, I read several at a time; sometimes just a few pages at a time from each one. Usually, the one that is most relevant to me at the moment gets finished first.
One of the books I have been working on recently is the book How People Change. I wish I would have taken the time to sit down and work through this book within a few days. How People Change is of the class of book that requires multiple readings. One would benefit from sitting down one day and trying to read it through from cover to cover to get the general structure. Then it would be wise to work through the material very slowly. The book is full of rich biblical truth, and needs careful study. Finally, after careful study and application, it would be wise to set aside another day to reread through the book again. It is on a very short list of books I plan to reread in 2009.
How People Change, by Timothy S. Lane and Paul David Tripp, sets forth the biblical principles for living a gospel centered life. The book is about who we are in Christ, and how to live in light of the gospel. I plan to review it more fully after I have reread it. The truths presented in this work are crucial to living an effective and productive Christian life. It is worth the effort to get this book and read and reread it.
One of the books I have been working on recently is the book How People Change. I wish I would have taken the time to sit down and work through this book within a few days. How People Change is of the class of book that requires multiple readings. One would benefit from sitting down one day and trying to read it through from cover to cover to get the general structure. Then it would be wise to work through the material very slowly. The book is full of rich biblical truth, and needs careful study. Finally, after careful study and application, it would be wise to set aside another day to reread through the book again. It is on a very short list of books I plan to reread in 2009.
How People Change, by Timothy S. Lane and Paul David Tripp, sets forth the biblical principles for living a gospel centered life. The book is about who we are in Christ, and how to live in light of the gospel. I plan to review it more fully after I have reread it. The truths presented in this work are crucial to living an effective and productive Christian life. It is worth the effort to get this book and read and reread it.
Praying for Our Children
Jon Bloom has an article entitled, "Texts to Pray for Our Children," on the Desiring God blog. It is a helpful guide concerning how to pray for our children. It takes the practice of praying the Scriptures and presents a helpful guide for parents.
Scripture Memorization
I have read a lot of challenging exhortations to memorize Scripture lately. Let's face it, Scripture memorization is tough stuff. I believe it is tougher than other types of memorization, because of the spiritual component. Speaking to the Lord, the Psalmist pronounces, "I have stored your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you" (Psalm 119:11, ESV). Scripture, rightly understood and correctly applied, has the power to transform the heart.
However, it is important to note that Scripture memorization must be combined with understanding and faith. It will do us no good to memorize a string of words, that we neither understand nor believe, simply because they appear in Scripture. Hence, Jesus can say to the Sadducees, "You are wrong, for you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God' (Matt. 22:29). To the chief priests and scribes he states, "Yes; have you never read, 'Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise?'" (Matt. 21:16, quoting Ps. 8:2). And to the Pharisees he states, "Go and learn what this means, 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice'" (Matt. 9:13, quoting Hos. 6:6). We need to seek both to understand and believe the Scriptures we are memorizing.
However, it is important to note that Scripture memorization must be combined with understanding and faith. It will do us no good to memorize a string of words, that we neither understand nor believe, simply because they appear in Scripture. Hence, Jesus can say to the Sadducees, "You are wrong, for you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God' (Matt. 22:29). To the chief priests and scribes he states, "Yes; have you never read, 'Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise?'" (Matt. 21:16, quoting Ps. 8:2). And to the Pharisees he states, "Go and learn what this means, 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice'" (Matt. 9:13, quoting Hos. 6:6). We need to seek both to understand and believe the Scriptures we are memorizing.
Friday, January 2, 2009
A Glimpse of Things to Come
I have begun my Bible reading plan for this year. A few weeks ago, I had my plan worked out, but I can't remember all the details. So yesterday, I had to make a snap decision. This year, I am going to read a chapter of Proverbs, a chapter from the Prophets (starting with Isaiah), and a chapter from the New Testament (starting with Romans) each day. When I finish the prophets, I'll either start reading in Genesis or Psalms, it depends how many days are left in the year. When I finish with the epistles, I read the Gospels and Acts, and then Revelation. After a year of daily readings in Proverbs I am still intreged, so I'll be reading Proverbs daily again. I am hoping after 24 months of walking with the sages, I'll be wiser.
I am still in the planning stage for my pulpit calendar. I know that I will be preaching a sermon series from Hebrews 10:19-13:25 shortly after returning home. I know a series of sermons from Hosea will follow our study of Hebrews, although there may be some sermons from other Scripture in between. I am feeling lead to either teach or preach through Ecclesiasties and possibly Ephesians this year. We will continue our study of a healthy church on Wednesday nights, which will be followed by a study on living the cross centered life. Discipleship training will focus on evangelism during the first part of the year, but I am not sure what will follow (yet).
I have someone in mind for revival this fall. I have already contacted him and he has agreed to come. I hope to have cottage prayer meetings throughout the year to pray for the revival. We also have a few opportunities to minister in our state coming our way. In June, the Southern Baptist Convention will be in Louisville. There will be an opportunity to take evangelism teams (or other types of teams) to Louisville the weekend before the Convention. Also in 2010, the World Equestrian Games will be in Lexington, and the Kentucky Baptist Covention is putting together a plan to share the gospel with those who come to the games.
Although I am not aware of all the opportunities that the Lord will bring our way this year, I am fully confident that he will bring many opportunities our way. I am excited about the challenges, opportunities, and blessings that are coming our way. Lord, may your kingdom come and may we serve you in humble submission.
I am still in the planning stage for my pulpit calendar. I know that I will be preaching a sermon series from Hebrews 10:19-13:25 shortly after returning home. I know a series of sermons from Hosea will follow our study of Hebrews, although there may be some sermons from other Scripture in between. I am feeling lead to either teach or preach through Ecclesiasties and possibly Ephesians this year. We will continue our study of a healthy church on Wednesday nights, which will be followed by a study on living the cross centered life. Discipleship training will focus on evangelism during the first part of the year, but I am not sure what will follow (yet).
I have someone in mind for revival this fall. I have already contacted him and he has agreed to come. I hope to have cottage prayer meetings throughout the year to pray for the revival. We also have a few opportunities to minister in our state coming our way. In June, the Southern Baptist Convention will be in Louisville. There will be an opportunity to take evangelism teams (or other types of teams) to Louisville the weekend before the Convention. Also in 2010, the World Equestrian Games will be in Lexington, and the Kentucky Baptist Covention is putting together a plan to share the gospel with those who come to the games.
Although I am not aware of all the opportunities that the Lord will bring our way this year, I am fully confident that he will bring many opportunities our way. I am excited about the challenges, opportunities, and blessings that are coming our way. Lord, may your kingdom come and may we serve you in humble submission.
We Can't Wait to Get Our Rhythm
Life with an eighteen month old is a learning process. When you add in the reality that you're in a foreign land it increases the difficulty of finding your routine (I know some of you are warning that there is no such thing as "a routine" when it comes to small children, but you know what I mean). It is hard to get into a rhythm when you can't cook your own food, when your living room is your bedroom, and when you don't feel totally comfortable going outside.
We know that this is a blessed time. All of our other responsiblities have been suspended. Right now, our only job is parenting this beautiful gift from God. We are about a week from coming home, and we know that the rhythm we have been able to work out will be turned upside down, and we will again begin the process of finding our rhythm.
We are looking forward to getting home and beginning the "normal" life. This time is, and always will be, a precious time, a time which we as a family will always cherish. We are greatful to the Lord for the prayers and support of our family and friends, we are thankful to the Lord for the church granting me this time off, and for the School Board giving us the time to be here.
We know that this is a blessed time. All of our other responsiblities have been suspended. Right now, our only job is parenting this beautiful gift from God. We are about a week from coming home, and we know that the rhythm we have been able to work out will be turned upside down, and we will again begin the process of finding our rhythm.
We are looking forward to getting home and beginning the "normal" life. This time is, and always will be, a precious time, a time which we as a family will always cherish. We are greatful to the Lord for the prayers and support of our family and friends, we are thankful to the Lord for the church granting me this time off, and for the School Board giving us the time to be here.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Laughter
Laughter is a gift from God. I have always found a child's laughter raises my spirits. This photo is a rare capture. Sophia usually gets real serious when you pull out the camera. My prayer is that her days will be filled with moments like this one. I hope all of you are having a wonderful New Year's Day.
Different Points of View
This picture reminded me of a very important truth: parents and children often view the world through different eyes. I was showing Sophia a display case filled with toys. Can you guess which one of us liked the toys best?
An Excellent Article for Parents to Consider
If you have children or grandchildren, you need to read this article by Dr. Timothy Paul Jones. The article is entitled, "Clothing and the Character of the Child." I read the article as a pastor doing research. I was touched by the article as a father of a young girl. My desire is that my daughter will grow up into a godly woman who exercises modesty, self-control and Christian virtue. This article is a power reminder that I, her father, have the responsibility of shaping the character of my daughter, for the glory of the Lord and her good.
More on New Year's Resolutions
Here is an excellent article on New Year's Resolutions by author, David Powilson. It is interesting in that he states he has never made a "New Year's Resolution." But, he does give an excellent definition of what a resolution is. He stated, more clearly, what I was trying to get across in my post yesterday on resolutions.
Taking Time to Reflect
Whatever the reason, New Year's (Eve and Day) seems to be a time of reflection. Reflection can be a good thing if it does not mire us in guilt and doubt. We need to be people who not only plan ahead, but who look back and evaluate our choices. Don Whitney, author and professor, has produced a list of questions to help guide us in the reflection process. I encourage you to take some time to reflect on these questions. Sometimes, the best way to move forward is to look back over where you have been.
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