Through the years we have refined our search process as we hire new staff at Crossroads.  Early on in our 17 year history we learned the hard way that asking the hard questions and watching for the “red flags” is crucial in the hiring process.  It can be easy to jump ahead of the process and gloss over the warning signs when the need for leadership is urgent.  Here is a brief overview of the process.  There is more to it but I don’t want to overwhelm you with details:

• Our prayer team is mobilized!
• We need to clearly define and prioritize our greatest needs in the area of leadership.  It is clear that we need a Worship Arts Director at Crossroads.
• When we’ve established the need to hire a new staff member we do our best to articulate a position description knowing that there will be adjustments as we get to know the gifts and strengths of our new leader.
• We proactively seek out quality candidates we know and invite them to apply while advertizing on key websites.
• The staff sorted through some 52 résumés and applications that included DVD’s, audio or websites that sampled the candidates worship leading skills.
• We conducted 9 phone interviews with prospective candidates and narrowed the field to 3 candidates all the while sifting through additional résumés and video samples.
• During the initial phase the Search Team, including staff, Praise Team leaders and elders, was formed and they sorted through the top candidates.
• The top three did an extended behavioral interview with Kris and Drew.  Behavioral interviews work on the premise that “the best predictor of future success is past behavior”.  We don’t ask what they would do, we find out what they’ve done.
• The top three were also asked to take a leadership assessment test (Caliper) that matches their gifts with our position description.
• Our top three candidates, the “cream of the crop”, made it through each of these steps so we invited them to come and lead us at a weekend service.  During the process of scheduling visits the Lord removed two of the potential candidates.
• Many of you participated in our primary candidate’s (Jeff Whitney) visit to Crossroads on June 10 & 11.  We gave everyone a chance to meet Jeff and see him in action while the search team conducted an extended interview and the praise team had the opportunity to meet him and ask questions as well.
• Our final step in the process is to check his references.
• The Search Team then meets (July 8 ) to make a recommendation to the Road Crew (July 12) for their approval.

With slight adjustments this is the process used to hire each individual staff member in the past 10 years.  Hiring new team members can be a stressful time for me.  There are so many variables involved and so many things to consider.  How one individual relates can radically impact the chemistry of our team.  Making the wrong choice can have a ripple effect that hinders Kingdom impact.  However, I am learning to trust God and how He uses the process.  I am excited about how I have seen Him at work in the current process and I know He will provide the right person to lead us in the unique role of Worship Arts Director.

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Ice Breaker: Did your parents talk to you about sex when you were growing up?  Have you had a conversation with your children?

1.  What is your first thought when you hear the word sex? Where would you place your first thought on this continuum?
Blessing/Pleasure                                                                                                            Taboo/Guilt
1              2              3              4              5              6              7              8              9              10
2.  Can we be intimate with someone and not be sexual?

3.  Read random passages from the Song of Songs.  What does this teach us about the gift of sex?  Why do you think this book is included in the Bible?

4.  Read Matthew 5: 27-30 & Proverbs 6:20-35.  Do we take the issue of lust seriously enough?  How do we avoid legalism in honoring these commands?

5. Pastor Kris talked about surrender not will power that will give us victory; what do you remember from the message about surrender or what would you add to the notion of surrender?
6.  Have you ever confided in someone with this area of your life?  Does it make sense that self-control is a fruit of the Spirit? Why?

www.sexual-sanity.com Check out this website!

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

7 Deadly DiStractIoNs

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Ice Breaker: If money was no object what would you buy tomorrow? When was the last time you felt buyer’s remorse?  [You could think more clearly about the purchase afterward and you realized the negative aspects of your purchase (like your spouse will kill you J).]

1. What are some of the American ideals that help promote greed? Think of specific commercials or industries that create in us a desire for MORE or hoarding what we have. What are you especially susceptible to?  “Confession is good for the soul.”
2. Read Luke 12:13-21 out loud to the group – use the NIV or NLT or The Message. What stands out to you as a group when you hear this passage? What plays into Jesus’ comments (vv. 13-14) to the man – think background of firstborn sons in that culture. Contrast the man’s viewpoint of life and God’s viewpoint of life. What did the man miss? See Psalm 37:16; Proverbs 15:16; Ecclesiastes 4:6-8; Matthew 6:25-26.
3. “Greed is an attractive lie” was a main point of the message. In what ways is that true? See James 4:13-16; Ecclesiastes 2:18-19; Luke 11:39-40. What are some of the “if only” lies you’ve believed? Do you still believe it? What changed your mind?
4. “Greed repositions our hearts” was another point made. Restate Matthew 6:21 in your own words. How do you understand “being rich toward God.” Talk through 2 Corinthians 6:4-10 and 1 Timothy 6:18-19.
5. What are you investing in with your money, time, gifts and other resources? On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being totally satisfied and content and 1 having next year’s Christmas list to Santa ready, where are you on this contentment/dissatisfaction scale?
6. What can you do to nurture contentment in your life?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Think about good anger or “righteous indignation” (see John 2:14-17, Matthew 23).  Have you ever experienced this kind of anger? Over what? Did it move you to action? What are the “justice” issues that stir your passion?
2. Track the phrase “Lord’s anger” Exodus 4:14, Numbers 25:3, Deuteronomy 7:4, Joshua 23:16, II Chronicles 24:31.  What makes God angry?  Does anger seem out of character for God?
3. When do you feel threatened or fearful?  What areas of your life do you feel will be easily crushed if you don’t protect them?  (Financial, Relational, Family, Job)  What fruit do your fears in these areas produce?
4. On the continuum between restraint and rage where would you place yourself?
   1. Restraint ___________________________________________________Rage
5. Pastor Kris talked about some ways to restrain your anger: knowing yourself, taking charge of your anger, knowing what triggers your anger, practice gentleness.  Which one of these things do you plan to work on?  Who will help you?
6. Read Ephesians 4:25-32 again. How does this chapter end in v. 32? Would those who know you well describe you with the words of this verse?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

Note to the Leader: Before you dive into the questions below. Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message. Did they have questions? Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Kris made the statement: “Self-doubt is the seed of insecurity.” Do you believe this? Why or why not? Give some personal examples if you feel comfortable. How does this develop? (Hint from last week’s message: nature or nurture)

2. Review the story of Cain and Abel from Genesis 4. Does the punishment fit the crime? Hear Cain’s cry in verse 13. Discuss his punishment – how do you understand it? What does this say about envy’s impact on community? Check out 1 John 1:3-12.

3. Read Psalm 73:21-26 again (The Message or NLT give it a rich flavor). What is the cure for envy? (See verse 25 especially)

4. Wrestle with Romans 12:15 for a bit. Why is it often difficult for us to rejoice with those who are rejoicing? Who in your circle of friends/family can you rejoice with right now? Celebrate them!

5. Finding our security in Christ is a huge antidote to envy. What are some habits, disciplines, or conversation, etc. that can nurture this in your life? What’s stopping you from moving forward with these?

For the next several weeks, both in weekend services and brickhouse, were talking about the 7 Deadly Sins (DiStractIoNS, as we’re cleverly disguising it!) Mark Twain said, “We are like the moon; we have a dark side we don’t want anyone to see.” It’s true, even as I read the Bible, the “heroes” mess up: Abraham – friend of God – lied and deceived; David – a man after God’s own heart – adultery, murder; Noah – bailed water well against the flood but lost a significant battle to the bottle!

Quite frankly though what’s most disturbing about the human condition is the ambiguity in my own life! Romans 5 says I am “in Christ” but I am also “in Adam.” I’m a new creature but I bear the imprint of old sinful patterns that continue to make their appeal to my flesh. So how do I deal with this?

I went back to this verse that Kris led us to this past weekend: 1 John 1:9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (NIV) Confess simply means take 100% responsibility. I sinned, period. Until that is done, there will be no peace, no joy, no clear sense of God’s presence, and I desperately need this.

But our flesh will battle against that. I see at least four different ways: 1) Dismissal – pretend it didn’t happen. Just like our parents, Adam and Eve, get leaves and cover things over. 2) Blame shifting – As Kris mentioned, this goes all the way back to Adam, and as modern as me! 3) Rationalization – we try to diminish the seriousness of sin by labeling it another way. Call it what it is! Don’t play games with God! Be ruthlessly honest and transparent with him. 4) Penance – attempt to make up for the bad by doing things – go to church, give more money, bargain with God: “I will never do that again. It’s perfection from here on out, I swear, perfection.” Failure to appropriate your grace is what got you in trouble in the first place! Confession is the only means to dealing with true moral guilt.

But don’t end your reading with the first chapter of 1 John – read on: 1 John 2:1-2: My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense– Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. (NIV)

John says, “I didn’t write 1:9 as a bar of soap or for loose living. Reality is we will sin. But we’ve got one who speaks to the Father in our defense.” The origin of that word can be kind of interpreted two ways: “someone who comes alongside,” or as “advocate,” which has more of a legal feel to it.

Once you know Jesus, God never sees you first, he sees Jesus. We are covered by him. God looks on us with his eyes dancing and face smiling! That’s grace! Yes, God gets upset about our attitudes and actions, but that is different than our person. We are covered from head to toe in perfect righteousness because of the Cross!

Keep this in mind as we begin our journey through the 7 Deadly Sins! I am.

- Drew Brown

Working with kids through the years has given me many reasons to laugh. I have had a multitude of opportunities, as a former elementary school teacher, as a mom, and as a leader, volunteer, and staff member in our children’s ministry here at church.

Any one who has spent time around kids knows that the laughter is one of those perks that you have to enjoy and savor when it comes.  There will certainly be days working with children, when you need a good healthy dose of it since you also have to occasionally put up with the other less-attractive side of children.  But we won’t mention the whining, the biting, the crying, etc.  Oops!  I just said we wouldn’t mention that.  Sorry!

Recently I have been reading a book by Gary Thomas entitled, Pure Pleasure, which has got me thinking about how, despite my work with children, I haven’t been laughing enough.  The book encourages taking time to rest, and to find pleasure in enjoying life.

I tend to overwork, over plan, over achieve.  Sometimes I forget my identity is in Christ and instead I find my worth in what I do.  So I am realizing that when I begin to take myself and my work too seriously, I am not trusting God.  I have to constantly remind myself that I cannot do it all.  God doesn’t want me to.  God would rather I rest and depend on Him a little more often.  God would rather see me laugh a little more often.

So this month – the month of May, I want to commit to God in public.  On my blog – for the entire world to see (okay the entire world won’t read it but they could!) – I want to commit to taking a day off…or at least an afternoon, once a week.   I need to get out and take a walk in the sunshine.  Read a good book.  Laugh with my kids.

Dear God, I want to trust you with all the stuff on my “to do” list.  I want to enjoy this life you have blessed me with.   I want to laugh more.  I want to trust you more, God.

So, if you see me around church, ask me if I took a day off.  Or tell me a good joke. 

- Deb Vos

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: When was the last time you told a “white lie” (we know you did!)? Maybe you told someone their clothes looked nice, or they sang good, or their cooking tasted good.

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. What evidence can you find in Scripture that God is not the author of evil?
2. Can you name all 7 of the deadly sins?  What good desire does each of these seven sins corrupt
3. Discuss the two extremes:  We are immersed and consumed by our sins or we are so “holy” we see only the sins of others. How do we avoid both extremes?  (Romans 3:23 & Ephesians 3:18ff)
4. What does I John 1:8-10 say about how we deal with sin?  How often do we apply the truth of these verses?
5. Pastor Kris talked about how we either attack or flee when we sin.  Can you give examples of how you have done both ?  What was Adam and Eve’s initial response to their sin?  When they were found by God how did they respond?

Why I Believe

Ice Breaker: This might be a great week for you as a leader or a couple of folks in the group to share how they came to faith in Christ. These testimonies don’t need to be long. Was there a defining moment, or simply in Chesterton’s words an “accumulation of small but unanimous facts”?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

Talk through the idea of a Moral Code built into each of our lives. Read Romans 2:12-24. Think back to various ancient civilizations: where did they get the idea of wrongdoing, the fear of judgment, the desire to atone for sins and appease whatever gods they feared?

Which is a more powerful argument of God’s existence to you, the complexity of creation or the goodness of creation? Why? What can we know of God from his creation? See Romans 1:18-20; Psalm 19; Isaiah 40:22-26. What is missing in this revelation?

With MacDonald’s quote in mind: “I can only say with my whole heart that I hope I have indeed a Father in heaven; this man says he knows,” think through what Jesus said about the Father. See Matthew 6:26-32; Mark 11:25; Luke 10:21-22; 23:34, 46 to get you started – other passages?

Moral Code, Creation, and Changed Lives are three reasons to believe. Can you think of any more “scraps” of evidence for belief? (Hints: First Cause, Joy, others)

How would you define repentance? What must we believe to have faith in Christ? See Romans 10:9-10; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, 14-18. How has God sought or is seeking you?

Can one ever be sure of their faith? How? Are you?

The Strange Silence of God

Ice Breaker: Every one of us has some element of skepticism. Share with the group yours. Ideas: Honesty in government; truth in advertising; hype of sports teams; belief in global warming; your favorite “urban legend.”

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

Which of the three areas talked about this weekend – Lack of Evidence, Believers, Problem of Pain – have you personally struggled with? A friend? Why was it so much a struggle?

Read Exodus 33:12-23. Discuss the concept of “No one can see God’s face.” Compare

Deuteronomy 5:24; Judges 13:22; 1 Timothy 6:16. How did God answer this? Compare John 1:14, 18; 6:46. What perception do you project onto God?

Discuss John 14:12 – What did Jesus mean when He said that believers would do “even greater things than these”? Is this an overstatement? Compare the early church: Acts 2:41; 4:4; 6:7.

Think of instances in your own Christian experience (giving or receiving) where you have seen, as Dr. King said, “true Christianity” lived out. Do you see echoes of Luke 6:27-37?

Suffering may be the most difficult of all the doubt areas. Talk through Wolterstorff’s comment that “perhaps his [God’s] suffering is his glory.” Compare Romans 8:17; Galatians 2:20; Hebrews 2:10; 1 Peter 3:18; 4:13-14.

How does the belief in the resurrection of Christ impact our doubts? Are you using doubt as an “antibody” to your faith?

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: What is the most high risk (death-defying) adventure you’ve ever taken?  How did you get the courage? What kind of equipment/expert did you put your faith in? Was it good faith or bad faith?

If you have no risk takers in your group, you can ask the question, “Have you ever seen a foundation (of house or building) fail?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Read James 3:13-18 What are the parallels between this passage and Matthew 7:24-29 What are the characteristics of heavenly wisdom?
2. Read I Corinthians 3:10-11 In light of this passage what are you building your faith on?  What is the evidence of this in your life?
3. Psalm 92:13-15 & Matthew 16:18 Many times in Scripture God refers to “the Rock” what does this mean?  Can you think of any Scripture passages that contrast the lack of foundation for the wicked (Psalm 1)? What are other biblical examples of those who build a foundation of sand?
4. Pastor Kris taught from Matthew 7:24-29 this is the conclusion of a sermon that starts in Chapter 5 of Matthew.   How might this shape how you hear this passage in Matthew 7:24-29?  What are some highlights from this great sermon of Jesus?
5. Can you recall any of the characteristics of Good Faith and Bad Faith from the message?  Can you describe people in your life who model Good Faith?
6. What and/or who has God used in your life to build a solid foundation? What and/or who has contributed to a poor foundation?
7. What core conviction is at the top of your priority list right now?  How long will it take you to build the foundation in this one area of your life?

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: Do you believe there are aliens living on other planets?  Explain.  If you do not believe what would convince you? If you do believe there are aliens what would convince you there are not?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Review John 20:24-29 If you were the writer of a gospel, would you include this story?  Why or why not?
2. Read 1 Peter 1:1-9 What issue is Peter addressing in this letter?  How might these verses encourage the readers?
3. What is the opposite of faith?  What is the opposite of doubt? (Hint: faith and doubt are not opposites!)  Read Hebrews 11 to help you determine the answers.
4. Do you ever have doubts about what you believe?  Have these doubts served to build your faith or have they been more destructive to your faith?  Explain.
5. What aspect of Christianity would you like to find answers for?  Have you ever investigated this issue? Where might you find those answers? How would your life be different if you found those answers?
6. What attitudes does Thomas exemplify?  Read John 11:16; 14:5; 20:24-25 He is called Didymus (twin) there is a connection between doubt and the word two!  Is Thomas really a twin or is he double-minded?
7. Is there a positive side to skepticism?  (v.26-29)
8. Define “cynicism” in your own words.  Give a biblical example of a cynic.  What areas of your life are you cynical about?
9. Why is unbelief or rebellion worse than cynicism or skepticism?  (I Samuel 15 Saul ; II Chronicles 26 Uzziah)

I don’t know about you, but I am tired of seeing our young men lose the fight for purity and the whole “boys will be boys” mentality just doesn’t cut it with me. There’s just too much at stake. The teen years are not throw away years, they are formative years. They are the years that young men establish beliefs, habits and patterns that can last a life time.
The truth is that media messages about sexuality, pornography, masturbation, and pre-marital sex are keeping our young men from attaining their true destiny. Instead of becoming more of a man, they become more like children; unable to grow up and grow out of that dominating, selfish fascination with themselves and their own sexual desires and impulses.
It’s time to start a fight! It’s time to fight for our young men and with our young men as they toughen up their convictions and take a moral stand and become the Heroes they are meant to be. This is why we created our Brickhouse Sr. High Fight Club. A place of honesty, truth, inspiration, and growth.   A place where Sr. High guys can get real with each other about temptation and sin, as well as keep one another accountable toward living out winning strategies for purity in their lives.
Fight Club is not just a program idea, it is also an environment. Last year we purchased a 25 ½ foot Coachmen “pull-behind” camper-trailer. We rebuilt the trailer and created a kind of “man-cave” on wheels. Many of our Fight Club studies and gatherings will take place inside and around the Fight Club trailer in various locations around the area.
Beginning Sunday Night April 11th our Sr. Higher’s will engage the battle and begin to learn winning strategies for living God’s best as they receive a copy of Every Young Man’s Battle by Fred Stoeker. The book includes a journal as well and we’ll discuss portions of the book during our Fight Club gatherings.
Our next Fight Club gathering will be April 11th.  Fight Club members will receive the Every Young Man’s Battle book on this night.  Other FC gatherings will be scheduled soon as we form consensus among FC students and leaders.

For more information about Fight Club please contact Youth Pastor Todd E. Hair 219-322-6400 or by e-mail: thair@aboutccc.com

Ice Breaker: Are you a coffee drinker? If so, how do you drink it? If not, what is your drink of choice when you are sitting and visiting with friends? Is it different in the winter versus the summer? Is this making you thirsty?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

Share an experience where you felt you had a spiritual conversation – soul to soul. You don’t have to share the details of the conversation nor tell who it was with, but what made this conversation so unique? How did it make you feel?

Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-8 slowly together as a group – maybe even have it read in several versions. Talk through how we provide comfort (give empathy) to those struggling – how does our own experience play into this? (Think through what Paul himself had experienced – eg. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, and how it allowed him to minister to the Corinthians).

Explain what it means to encourage someone to see the Larger Story. Read 2 Corinthians 1:9-11. To what hope is Paul pointing them to? Look at Romans 8:17-39. See also 2 Kings 6:1-17 for a picture of seeing with eyes of faith.

Which half of an enlightening conversation “It is horrible to sin, but it is wonderful to forgive” do you tend to err toward? Compare how the writer of Hebrews exposes sin – Hebrews 3:12-13 – then grace – 3:14. Look also at Hebrews 4:12-16: power of the Word of God to expose evil (12-13), then focus on grace (14-16).

With the mindset of empowering, read Hebrews 10:24-25. Do you see “provoking” (spur in NIV) as a part of your church life? How could you “fan into flame” (2 Timothy 1:6-7) the work of God in someone’s life? Will you?

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: What is your favorite fast food?  Can you recall the favorite fast food of everyone in your family?  How often do you eat fast food?  How often do you sit down for a meal at your table?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Background of Deuteronomy: Do some digging into the background of the book. Why this repetition? What is the basic message of the book? How does it apply to us?

1. Read Deuteronomy 6 vs. 18 & 24.  How have these promises/consequences proven to be true/untrue in your life?

1. Pastor Drew talked about how Moses (and through him, God) is “fighting for the heart”.   What does that mean to you?  How was it different prior to Deuteronomy 6?  How did it progress from Deuteronomy 6 (Jeremiah 31:33 & others)?  What words of Jesus brought this notion even further (John 15:15,

1. Though the message is targeted at parents and children, be sure to get ample input from those who don’t have children exploring their experiences growing up, what they’ve observed; empty nesters can recount their past experiences or now with grandchildren; singles can speak of growing up, or conversations with extended family and friends.

1. The character modeled in our lives continues to be one of the most powerful ways to influence our children (or our parents).  What truths are you communicating to your family regularly? How are you doing it? Read the character qualities God wants to reveal through your life found in Galatians 5:22-23. How might you put that quality into action in the family setting?

1. How does your daily life reflect what you hope your children will catch regarding what it means to know, love and follow Jesus in the following areas?

…serving and putting others first

… forgiving others and owning up to your mistakes

… loving your enemies

… speaking the truth in others

… time with God

1. What will you do this week as a result of this message? Do you have a time and a plan? Who will you ask for help in pulling this off?

Eugene Peterson’s Introduction to Deuteronomy:

Deuteronomy is a sermon—actually a series of sermons. It is the longest sermon in the Bible and maybe the longest sermon ever. Deuteronomy presents Moses, standing on the Plains of Moab with all Israel assembled before him, preaching. It is his last sermon. When he completes it, he will leave his pulpit on the plains, climb a mountain, and die.

The setting is stirring and emotion-packed. Moses had entered the biblical story of salvation as a little baby born in Egypt under a death threat. Now, 120 years later, eyesight sharp as ever and walking with “a spring in his step,” he preaches this immense sermon and dies, still brimming with words and life.

This sermon does what all sermons are intended to do: Take God’s words, written and spoken in the past, take the human experience, ancestral and personal, of the listening congregation, then reproduce the words and experience as a single event right now, in this present moment. No word that God has spoken is a mere literary artifact to be studied; no human experience is dead history merely to be regretted or admired. The continuous and insistent Mosaic repetitions of “today” and “this day” throughout these sermons keep attentions taut and responsive. The complete range of human experience is brought to life and salvation by the full revelation of God: Live this! Now!

The Plains of Moab are the last stop on the forty-year journey from Egyptian slavery to Promised Land freedom. The People of Israel have experienced a lot as a congregation: deliverance, wanderings, rebellions, wars, providence, worship, guidance. The People of Israel have heard a lot from God: commandments, covenant conditions, sacrificial procedures. And now, poised at the River Jordan, ready to cross over and possess the new land, Moses, preaching his great Plains of Moab sermon, makes sure that they don’t leave any of it behind, not so much as one detail of their experience or God’s revelation: He puts their entire experience of salvation and providence into the present tense (chapters 1–11); he puts the entire revelation of commandment and covenant into the present tense (chapters 12–28); and then he wraps it all up in a charge and a song and a blessing to launch them into today’s obedience and believing (chapters 29–34).

“Let’s go.”

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

• Review Genesis 1:28-2:17 (especially v. 28 & 15) How have we done in following God’s direction to take care of the garden?  How do we still feel the impact of the curse in Genesis 3:17-19?  How have we overcome the curse? (i.e. how have air conditioned tractor cabs impacted the sweat of your brow)
  • As you sit down to dinner and look at the food on the table, do you have relationships with any of the people you buy food from?  Is that important?
  • The dietary laws of Leviticus are confusing but they seem to indicate that God cares about what we eat and how we prepare it. After hearing Rob and Kirstin’s message on Sunday are there any changes you would like to make in how you buy and prepare your meals?
  • Reflect on how crops are grown in our country.   Are there ways we could do better?  What are some strengths of the current farming system?  How can you make a difference?

1. My daughter is leaving for college in the fall. I waffle between pride and self-pity every time I think about it. I know she’s ready. She is far more mature than I was at 18 and that’s what makes me so proud of her. At the same time I’m not ready to be apart from her. Ten hours is too far away. I can’t imagine not seeing her beautiful face every day. She is one of my favorite people to talk to in the world and the phone just doesn’t cut it. Why did God design parenting in such a way that we would love our children so much only to one day let them go? That just seems weird to me right now and maybe even wrong! But it is the reality nonetheless. I don’t think I’m good at letting go. Maybe that’s the moral of this musing. Learn to let go or better yet learn to embrace the reality that she was never mine and always God’s. I just lived with the illusion that I had some kind of hold on her.
2. Saying good-by to a partner in ministry that I have worked closely with for 8+ years is hard. It takes time to learn someone else’s strengths and gifts. It takes years of trial and error to know how you fit together on a team. Then things are clicking and you feel the synergy the Spirit brings. Suddenly, everything changes. Your friend and partner moves on and you begin the process again with this gaping hole in your team. It has been such a blessing to see God begin to fill that hole with so many committed volunteers. I have been so proud of how so many people in our church have handled a difficult situation with so much grace, encouragement and prayer. The greatest healing comes when we yield ourselves to the Spirit and allow Him to shape and mold us through the painful changes life brings.
3. I’m excited about the future! Our attendance numbers, member’s classes and new visitors indicate we are in a season of growth and momentum at Crossroads. As leaders we have been working for some time now on some long range plans. Just this week I was consolidating some of the work we have done into a working document that we will be refining in the coming weeks. Long range planning is not a strong suit of my leadership but as I see the plans begin to coalesce I am getting excited. Here is a taste of what’s coming:
   • I believe God is calling us to invest in greater ways in our families through “home discipleship”.
   • Volunteer Central and Sermon Based Small Groups will continue to strengthen relational connections in our church.
   • God is nudging us toward partnerships with the urban centers that surround our area.
   • Our taste of “Service Worship” in November last year needs to grow!
   • Making room for more folks in our facilities is a must. We need to make creative use of our current facilities and plan for growth.

   D. Spring! Everything looks better when the sun shines on it! The sun is making me squint right now as I sit at my desk at 4:35 on a Wednesday afternoon. Life is good and God is great! Our Easter series is “Faith & Doubt”. I am praying that the Son will shine His light on the dark corners of doubt in the hearts of so many.

- Kris Vos

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: What were some of the regular meals on the menu in your house growing up?  Who cooked and who cleaned up?  Did you sit down together and eat?  What is your best memory from family meal time and what is your worst memory?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Exodus 12:26 indicates that the children will ask what the ceremony means.  What role do children play in our observance of the Lord’s Supper?  Why did God include the children in the Passover?

1. Read Exodus 12 and/or Luke 24 and rehearse that event in your mind.  What did you hear, smell, taste, see and feel?

1. Luke records no less than 10 meals that Jesus shared with people.  Find one and discuss its spiritual and theological significance.  (Remember Luke wrote Acts and the meal shared in Acts 2)

1. What are other notable meals in Scripture?  (Genesis 26:28-30; Exodus 18:12; Exodus 24:11; Joshua 9:12-15; II Samuel 3:20) You can use your concordance to find more.  Contemplate their significance for the occasion.

1. Passover was a meal of celebration.  We are often somber in our observance of the Lord’s Supper.  Should it be more of a celebration?  Should it look more like a meal than tiny samples?

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: What was home like for you growing up?  What was the floor plan of your house?  What was your favorite spot in the house?  What smells do you remember?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Pastor Kris mentioned that Jesus was likely walking through the Kidron Valley as he spoke the words of John 15. What significance does that have? (This is a “did you listen closely to the message” question! J)  What might be a modern image for the vine and the branches of John 15?

1. What are some practical ways that you might “remain” in Christ?

1. Do you remember a time when you were chosen last for something? (Think back to elementary gym class and kickball – UGH!) Or, a time when there was no place for you at the table at a party or special dinner?  How did you feel?  Read John 14:1-4 as Jesus leaves, what comfort does he give his followers?

1. What have you allowed to become a substitute for your “true home”?  If that is too difficult to answer, try: What is running a close second (to God) in your life as your true home?

1. How do you reconcile what Jeremiah 17:9 & Ecclesiastes 3:11 say about the heart? (see Proverbs 4:23 also)

1. Is there a connection between Jesus’  call for us to “remember”  (Luke 22:19) and Jesus’ call for us to “remain” in him (John 15)?

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: How far off course have you gone on a trip.  When did you realize you were off course?  Who did you blame? (Who was really to blame?)

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. What comes to mind when you hear the word wilderness? Have everyone in your group give at least one or two adjectives.

1. How long did it take the people to start grumbling against Moses after they were delivered from Egypt? (Exodus 15:22-24)  How long did it take them to want to return to Egypt and slavery? (Exodus 16:1-3)  What does this say about our need for patience in the wilderness?

1. Pastor Kris talked about “designer despair”.  Can you describe what this means?  Where have you observed this to be true in your life or others?  Give an example of someone you know who is more at home in their despair than they desire to find hope.

1. Review Deuteronomy 2:7 How has God provided for you in the wilderness?  What has He taught you in the wilderness?  Do you think He could have taught you those things had you never gone through the wilderness?

1. Read Numbers 14:20-25 The people were at the end of the wilderness and suddenly their journey got even tougher.  They chose not to trust God.  Was God too harsh in his judgement?

1. Many key biblical leaders: Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, David, and Paul had wilderness experiences.  Even Jesus began his earthly ministry with a time in the wilderness.  Why is this so important to God’s plan for us?  Are you in the wilderness now?  Just on the other side? Nearing the end?

Agape means “love” in modern day Greek, which can also be translated to literally mean, “I love you”.  In Ancient Greek, it often refers to a general affection and many ancient Greek texts use the term to denote feelings for a good meal, one’s children, and the feelings for a spouse. It can be described as the feeling of being content or holding one in high regard. Many have thought that this word represents divine, unconditional, self-sacrificing, active, and thoughtful love…God’s love!

Perhaps the best place to go to see agape love showing itself is in I Corinthians 13, often referred to as the New Testament “love chapter”.  Let’s discover how well we do with this “Agape Love”.
The first characteristic of agape love in I Corinthians is, “love is patient”.  I have to be honest, this is not one of my strong points.  I have a difficult time expressing this aspect of agape love.  However; when I look at God, I realize how patient His love is.  I see all the time how He patiently waits for me to come to Him to ask for help or to express my love for Him. He has the patience that a true father represents.
The second characteristic that is presented here is, “love is kind.”  How do you do with this?  I like to think I am a kind person, but unfortunately far too often human nature takes over and kind words and thoughts are far from my heart, mouth and mind.

Love does not boast, it is not rude.  This phrase makes me think of my own boys.  Being twins, competition is always at the forefront of conversation.  For the most part, the boys are compliant and share a special bond.  Recently, however, I came home to find one of them near tears.  He said that his brother was bragging because he did better on a test.  Boasting and rudeness come naturally to us.  After speaking with the brother, I realized that he was not even aware of what he was doing.  As I think about myself, I wonder how many times I am rude or boastful and don’t even realize it.  As Christians, the only thing we can boast of is what Christ has done for us! (Prov. 13:10; 16:18; Psalm 31:15; Daniel 4:30; 5:23; Matt. 7:5; Acts 17:28; 1 Cor. 12:25-25; 2 Cor. 11:20; 12:5-9; Col.1:17; Eph. 3:18-19; 1 John 1:6-7).

God’s (Agape) love is not self-seeking.  Selfishness should not be confused with seeking ourselves.  God wants us to find our innermost strengths and the gifts and talents He has graciously given us, but to help others in the process.  There are certain individuals that I know that have dedicated their lives to serving others and not themselves.  I consider that agape love that is not self-seeking.  I want to be like that!

The next characteristics of love is, “it is not easily angered”.  Wow, I don’t know anyone who doesn’t struggle with this.   A husband one day said to his wife, “You do not fight back when I get mad at you, how do you control your anger?” The wife responded, “I clean the toilet….” He said, “How does that help?” To which she said, “I use your toothbrush.”  I think it’s important to realize that this verse says that love is not EASILY angered.  It doesn’t say that there is never going to be moments where anger rises, but we have to learn to control it.  Thank the Lord for friends that can help us in this and hold us accountable.

I think the end of the chapter is my favorite…”Love never fails.”  This is when I know that only God is the one who has true Agape love.  I hate to think of all the times that I fail my family or even myself, but God never fails.  In all the hardships of life and rushing around, God never leaves us.  He is always there patiently waiting and guiding us.  God’s love (Agape) never fails!

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Opening: Have each person share a time that they made a wrong turn or somehow got lost or turned around or found themselves going in the wrong direction. Ladies, please be patient with the men as this may be a hard question for them to relate to!

Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message. Did they have questions? Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Review CAYG (Circumstances, Advisors, You, God) from last week’s message. Which part of the CAYG is your weakest? Was there a time you received advice or came to understand something about yourself but then refused to act upon it? Why didn’t you? Did you have the information you needed?

1. Read Proverbs 3:5-6 in at least three different versions of the Bible. (Leaders may need to come prepared for this. You can check out www.biblegateway.com) How do you trust, lean, and acknowledge? In what areas is this easy to do with God? In what areas is it hard?

1. It is ironic in light of Solomon’s later life that he wrote Proverbs 3:5-6 – see 1 Kings 3:7-13 with 1 Kings 11:4-5. What happened? What stood out to you in the discussion of idolatry?

1. Describe a time when incredible pressure or emotions changed a decision you had to make. Why are decision making times never emotionally neutral? Read 1 Samuel 15:3-23. What command did God give Saul? How did Saul disobey God? What were the results?

1. How does the statement: Choosing the right path begins with submission, not information, apply to you right now? What are you going to do as a result of what you’ve heard?

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: What is your dream job?  (Digging deeper: Describe what you believe is your life calling. How does your occupation enhance and/or hinder that calling?)

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Review Genesis 37: 1-10.  For those in the group who know the story of Joseph, how did his dreams as a young man shape his immediate future and long term future?

1. Circumstances:

Describe one circumstance in your past that has significantly shaped your life.  Read Jeremiah 29:11.  Has this promise always seemed true in your life?

1. Advisors:

If you were to choose a Board of Trustees or a Life Panel for your life, who would be on the list?

1. You:

Name a spiritual gift you think you might have.  How has God used this gift in your life? (Examples: Service, Helps, Hospitality, Teaching, Administration, Leadership, Intercession, Craftsmanship, Healing, Encouragement and more!)

1. God:

Mark 1:35 is only one place in Scripture where it tells us that Jesus went off by himself to pray.  Tell the group about a time you prayed for God’s direction.  Was your prayer answered in the way you expected?

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: Describe your ideal vacation (location, activities, who goes?).  Do you return from vacation rested or exhausted? Why?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. In Exodus 20 Israel is told to keep the Sabbath because God did after creation and in Deuteronomy 5 Israel is told to keep the Sabbath because they were once slaves in Egypt.  What is the significance of each? Why the difference?

1. Read Ezekiel 20:12-13.  How important is Sabbath observance to our Father?

1. Jesus was frequently at odds with the religious leaders for breaking Sabbath laws.  (See Mark 2:23-28 what is meant by v. 27) Based on the message what do you think were the religious leaders missing in their understanding of Sabbath?

1. Discuss how the issues of pride, trust and generosity are related to Sabbath.

1. How well do you observe Sabbath?  Do you consider vacation Sabbath?

Sermon Based Small Group Questions – January 23 & 24 Messages

Ice Breaker: Tell your best “ticket” story (or other run-ins with the law!). What traffic law did you violate? Did you talk your way out of it? What were your feelings following the episode? Were you thankful for the law and those who enforce it? What was the approach of the police officer?

Note to the Leader: Before you dive into the questions below. Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message. Did they have questions? Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Why do you think Leviticus 19 starts with the respecting parents and observing Sabbaths?

2. What significance was there in not wearing clothing of woven of two kinds of material? V. 19 Is there an eternal principle we can take from a command like this?

3. The phrase “love your neighbor” looks like a footnote on not holding a grudge and yet Pastor Kris made it a centerpiece of the chapter. Do you think that is accurate and why? (Matthew 22:34-39)

4. Do you think there is a legitimate link between Leviticus 19:1 and 1 John 4:8? Describe the connection between holiness and love. Give examples of people in our world you would describe as holy.

5. We have an “ancient hunger”. We want to see the power of God revealed. We want to see God Himself break through into the natural world. We want to see splashes of glory in a world that is scarred by suffering and shame. Those who display God’s power to overcome what burdens us most are called “holy.” They are holy because they are the power of God revealed in this world.

As you read this quote from Gary Thomas (Holy Available) what comes to mind? How has God’s power come through you in the past and how will it in the future?

Languishing is the condition of someone who may be able to function but has lost a sense of hope and meaning. Languishing is not the presence of mental illness; it is the absence of mental and emotional vitality. In ancient lists of deadly sins it was called acedia – weariness of soul and inability to delight in life. We speak of dead marriages and dead-end jobs, and to languish is to feel inner deadness. Languishing is the opposite of flourishing, and it was the fear of Henry David Thoreau that “when I came to die, [I would] discover that I had not lived.”

I read Thoreau’s words and it was as if God was saying, “I came to give you life…live it!” My greatest fear is that I will languish – I don’t even like the sound of the word! I’m an activist, I want to constantly be moving, pushing, pursuing, seeing things change. I even toss and turn all night in my sleep! And yet, too much of my life feels like it’s languishing – there’s a feeling of deadness. Some of that is simply the routine of life, some of it is winter in NW Indiana (L), some of it is laziness, but far too much is that I’ve given up on growth, believing that God has something more for me, as Ortberg says, “the me God wants me to be.” I like that. Deep down I want that.

Here’s what I’m learning: God has a plan for the me he wants me to be, but it will not look like the plan he has for someone else. There is no “one-size-fits-all” process for growth. It includes those things that give me – uniquely – life and vitality, and I’m looking to build them into my life and schedule: solitude, reading, coffee with my wife and friends, laughter, opportunities to coach/encourage/mentor/teach, moments of learning something new, sitting in the sun… Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).

In the weeks ahead, I’ll be talking about an assessment to help understand one’s temperament, learning style, signature sin, and season of life. Over time we find that becoming “the me God meant me to be” is too hard or takes too long. When we give up pursuing growth, or really, pursuing God, we languish – we die a slow death! There is a person inside of you and me waiting to come alive. I want that! Because I don’t want to come to the day of my death and “discover I had not lived.” Stay tuned…

SBSG Questions

Ice Breaker:

Describe your favorite meal. What food do you despise?

Take a canned or boxed item and read the ingredients. Feel hungry? J

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

Sailhamer: “It has long been recognized . . . that the order of the purity laws in Leviticus 11 follows that of the creation of animal life in Genesis 1.” Do a little comparison for yourself.

Discuss the concept of clean/unclean. Talk through various ideas of why something might have been deemed unclean: physical health, societal values, ritual regulations, others?

[Note: There is no right answer to this! We don’t know for sure, but it makes for great discussion! J]

Read portions of chapters 11, 12, 13, 14 – what commonalities are there? Do these various dietary, hygiene, cleansing laws still apply? Why or why not? Cf. Matt. 15:11; Acts 10; Rom. 14; Col. 2:16; Heb. 9:10; 13:9

Why are we striving for purity?

Every aspect of daily life was affected by the reality of the presence of God. If that was true for the nation of Israel – give some concrete examples from Leviticus – how about us?

God was “in your face” with Israel – why not us post-Cross believers? Or is He?

What are some practical ways that we maintain purity or are “set apart” in the world? Activities? Associations? What we see, say? How do we make sure that we don’t isolate ourselves from the world?

What is an unclean thing that is keeping you from walking with God as you want?

For the deep thinkers and if you have time:

Think through the evolution of worship by God’s people: tabernacle (Exodus 25), temple (1 Kings 5), believers (1 Cor. 3:16-17; Eph. 2:20; Heb. 3:6; 1 Pet. 2:5). What are the implications of us now being “the temple of God”?

Other prayer concerns are deeper and more personal.  Prayers for sick Grandmothers, prayers for a friend who’s parents are getting divorced, or prayers for dad who is out of work.

I am often thrilled to read the request of students whose request is related to the message I taught that evening.  It is very rewarding to see that they have processed the talk and are ready to ask for God’s help in applying what they have learned.

Each week we receive the cards and pray for that student’s needs and concerns.  However, there are times when we feel called to respond to the prayer cards with more than a prayer.  Sometimes we feel called to minister to our student’s needs with both prayer and action (not that prayer isn’t action… it is!).

One such ministry is Divorce Care for Teens which will begin it’s second season on Tuesday, January 19th.  DC4T meets weekly and is lead by Tiffany Nottingham, Cyndi Schoon and Norm Vugteveen.  There is NO CHARGE for participating in DC4T.  Weekly meetings are on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 – 8:30 PM.  For more information or to register contact Tiffany Nottingham at 219-322-6400 ext. 303.

Divorce Care for Teens (DC4T)
Beginning Tuesday, Jan 19th
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Contact: Tiffany Nottingham
219-322-6400 ext. 303

Priest

Ice Breaker Ideas:

• What season of the year is your most favorite and why
• Most memorable thing you did over the holidays.
• Introduce yourself and Tell in two minutes who you are.

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. What were your perceptions of Leviticus before this series?
2. One of the key concepts in Leviticus is “Holiness” how would you describe holiness?
3. Think out loud what you might have seen, felt, smelled, heard or tasted in preparation to serve God as a priest? What would have been paramount in your thinking? (Review Chapters 1 & 8 to give you some ideas)
4. Unpack 1 Peter 2:9 and all of its implications.  Identify any parallels (if any) that there are between the preparation, ordination, and roles of the OT priests to our role as priests in God’s Kingdom.
5. Talk through the concept of the “human touch of holiness”.  What came to mind and how can you do it this week? (Recall the story of St. Francis)

Closing: Take some time to ask for prayer requests and pray for the group.

My daughter just rolls her eyes at me and says, “Whatever, dad.”

She knows I don’t really love cleaning the bathroom.  She sees through my shallow ploy to get her motivated to do her chores.  But, she cleans the bathroom.  That look of accomplishment in her eyes when she displays the sparkling results of her hard work is unmistakable: she loves it!

Maybe you were rolling your eyes a little as I introduced our new series on Leviticus last weekend.  I told you how excited I was about diving into Leviticus.  I’ll admit it is not an easy book.  When it says that a priest’s daughter who turns to prostitution should be burned to death, it’s a little hard to swallow!  At times it seems repetitious about trivial details (how many times do we need to know that the offering should have no physical defects), gross (do we really need the details of cleansing from contagious skin diseases, yuk!) and at other times extremely harsh (fire blazes forth from the Lord’s presence and burns up Aarons sons for disobeying God’s instructions).  In spite of all the difficult aspects of Leviticus I really do love uncovering its riches!

When I think about how hard the Israelites worked to remind themselves of God’s presence in their lives it challenges me to think about how meager my spiritual life looks in comparison.  When I think about the role of the priest in Israel and his responsibility to represent the people to God and God to the people I wonder if I am worthy of that same role as 1 Peter 2:9 says all of us are!

Last night I sat in a meeting with community leaders thinking about Leviticus.  Most of them in the room have probably never read Leviticus.  Many of them are probably not aware of the closeness of God.  As a priest I pondered how I was representing God in that meeting.  Did my attitude, my actions, my words give some indication of God’s presence?  Did I represent those people to God?

If Leviticus tells us anything it is that we must design our lives in such a way that we have reminders of God’s presence and power in everything we do.   As we begin a NEW YEAR, I hope you will take some ideas from Leviticus and find some ways you can set up reminders of God in your everyday life.  Maybe it’s post-it notes with verses, prayer time in the morning, a song every night, reading through the Bible in a year, praying for your co-workers during every meeting or tuning your radio to 89.7 or 90.1.  Only your imagination limits the ways you can connect with God every day!

January – Tribe Levi
Leviticus is not an easy read.  We are tempted to skip over it.  However, Leviticus contains more direct speech by God than any other book of the Bible!  Its rituals form the foundation of Israel’s worship.  In the pages of Leviticus we also discover a depth and meaning to our own worship rituals that we would not otherwise know.  Both our rituals and the ancient rituals are designed to connect our realm with the heavenly realm—sinful humanity with a holy God.

January 2/3: Tribe Levi: Sacrifice
Big Idea: OT animal sacrifices help us understand the depth of God’s grace through the atoning sacrifice of Christ.
Thoughts on Sacrifice/Atonement:

• -Ritual is a bridging mechanism that spans a gap between people that could not ordinarily interact.
• -God gives the details for various reasons. (“slit the throat” – less suffering for the animal; kill first then spread the blood – common sense)
• -The goal of the ritual is atonement which is a sweet aroma to God.
• -The hand is laid on the head of the animal to symbolize transferring of guilt to the animal.
• -the sacrificial system was God’s “altar call” to his people.  The brought a tangible sign of their dependence on Him and their desire to be with Him.

Take home:  What does our worship cost us? Celebrate Communion.  Do we desire to connect with God as He requires or do we chafe at his requirements?

January 9/10: Tribe Levi: Priests
Big Idea: We are the tribe of Levi – set a part as a nation of priests.  Christ the Messiah (anointed) has set us apart for His service.
Thoughts on Priesthood:

• -Aaron and his sons were touched with blood on the right earlobe, right thumb and right big toe—so they would listen, act and go where God directed!
• -The temple, altar and Aaron were all anointed as unique instrument s in the worship of God.
• -The barrier between this world and the heavenly realm is incredibly thin because of Christ’s work on the Cross.
• -Instead of entering the holy of holies once a year, as priests we are sent to “declare the praise of Him who called you out of darkness!” –I Peter 2:9
• -Hebrews identifies the unique order of priesthood (Melchizidek) that Christ fulfilled.
• -The priestly inheritance was not land, it was the Lord. “they are mine”-God
• -Nadab and Abihu were killed when they failed to follow God’s instructions for holiness.

Take home:  As priests we have the unique gift of entering into God’s presence. We must be careful to follow God’s guide for holiness.

January 16/17: Tribe Levi: Unclean
Big Idea:  We guard against impurity and preserve purity in every detail of our lives.
Thots on Purity:

• -It is difficult to determine why certain animals were chosen and others aren’t.  We do know that God limits the number of animals that we can eat maybe to preserve creation and remember that eating meat is an exception and a privilege.
• -Why was Jesus not defiled when the woman with flow of blood or when he touched lepers?  The flow of purity went one way like the cistern and the dry seed in 11:36.  Christ in us is a source of purity that cannot be defiled by anything.
• -All too often detailed laws like this become twisted into legalism.  In age of “cafeteria style” self-help where we take what we want we have to remember that God’s plan for us is wholistic!
• -We don’t question the Dr. when he tells us do this or die! Why do we do that for God when his intentions for us are even better than the Dr. (who gets paid!).

Take home: Spiritual disciplines are God’s best plan for our spiritual life—how do we let them flow into every part of our day.

January 23/24: Tribe Levi: Holy
Big Idea: Our life goal is to be holy as God is holy.
Thots on Holiness:

• -To grow in holiness means to grow in love and compassion.
• -We work so hard to rid our lives of sin when that is only half way to holiness and not the hardest part nor the most fun!
• -It is not about being a “good person” it is about representing God to the world.
• -Holiness is comprehensive: health, relational, psychological, spiritual.

Take home: Be transformed by the power of God’s love flowing through you!  Opportunities to serve: here in church, in our community, in your neighborhood.

January 30/31 – Tribe Levi: Sabbath
Big Idea: Rest is the closest thing to heaven on earth!
Thots on Sabbath:

• -It expands from a day to weeks, to a year, to Jubilee!
• -Jubilee is the pinnacle of Sabbath – debts repaid, forgiveness, prisoners freed, and a do-over fresh start!
• -Rhythm of life is work and rest.
• -God waits for us in Sabbath!

Take home: Make every effort to enter God’s rest.

Traditions…those little rituals passed down from generation to generation that give character to families and help build a special bond among family members. They create memories that can be talked about and cherished for years.

Traditions don’t have to be elaborate or require a lot of planning. They can be as simple as reading to your child every night in the same comfy chair, having a movie and pizza night once a month, or even just eating dinner as a family and discussing what you are thankful for. Traditions are the glue that keeps a family together. We all have very busy lifestyles, and adding a small tradition here or there can make all the difference to your family.

Shortly before Christmas, I asked my students what some of their favorite family traditions were. Here are a few that really stuck out or that I enjoy myself with my family:

1. Christmas Pajama run: The week before Christmas, we all get into our pajamas and pile into the car and drive around looking at Christmas lights. We search for the house with the brightest lights and vote for the best decorated lawn. We end the run back home with a cup of hot chocolate while we laugh about the goofy things we found.
2. Special Birthday Celebrations: Each year on our children’s birthdays, I fill up balloons the night before and hang them in the doorway to their bedroom. When they wake up in the morning, they find the balloons and then are served breakfast in bed. It is a special way to start their special day
3. Easter egg hunt: A classic in many households around the world. My mom and dad always filled eggs with money or candy and we searched for them on Easter. They still fill and hide the eggs, but now invite the grandkids over for the big hunt!
4. Winter “Snowed-In” Day: Choose a day (Saturday if your kids are in school) and stay inside all day, in your pj’s, watching movies, drinking hot chocolate, just doing “nothing” together as a family.
5. Potluck: This is a great way for extended family members to showcase their culinary talents. If you decide to do this monthly or bi-monthly, consider themes – make one night Mexican, and the next time Thai, followed by Italian. Theme nights can introduce you to a whole new world of cooking. Bring print-outs of the recipe so people can take it home with them.
6. Angel Tree: Each year our family takes a trip to the local department store and finds an “angel tree” with names of children in our community that won’t be able to have a Christmas with their family. We choose an angel, read the list and shop for the perfect gift or gifts for that child. It is a great way for kids to recognize the joy in giving at Christmas.

Family traditions are a great way to bring your family together. Maybe you can’t remember many special traditions that your family shared growing up. That is an even better reason to create these special memories with your family now. It doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive, start small. Maybe you have no family that you can share these traditions with. Find a neighbor or a friend and do something special with them. It’s never too late to start a new tradition, and generations to come will remember you in a special way and embrace that special bond that a family tradition carries. This New Year’s, don’t make a resolution that will last only a month or two, make a new tradition that will last for years, even generations to come.

Traditions are fun to share. If you have any fun, creative traditions, please share them here. I’d love to add to my list!

I have a unique seat to watch all of the seasonal miracles acted out. Often I feel like one of Santa’s elves – getting the joy of being the in-between person who delivers the surprise package to someone else who is caught off guard by generosity. Bags of groceries, gift cards, neatly wrapped Christmas gifts, or a tin of freshly baked cookies, express a love and concern that is at the heart of the Christmas spirit.

I and my family have marvelous memories of being caught off-guard by the spirit of Christmas: The “White Gifts offering” on Christmas Eve in our church in Hillsdale, OK that often went to pay for special treats for our growing family; the gift of sending Carrie and I to Dallas to be able to walk at graduation from Dallas Seminary; even the fun of nightly gifts showing up on our doorstep last Christmas season, as the Hair family delighted our family with their version of “The 12 Days of Christmas.”

As blessed as it has been to receive over the years, I still find the greatest joy in giving to others. Usually it has been out of our own need and not abundance, but God has always blessed. Gift giving doesn’t have to be extravagant: a hand-written note well-thought out becomes a prized possession, or the gift of time – a cup of coffee or egg nog and conversation may cause someone to characterize this Christmas as “the best ever.” My best Christmas memories are of family gatherings, laughter, hand-made ornaments, listening again to the miracle of the Christmas story, and seeing the spirit of Christmas touch young and old alike.

If we can just carry that spirit of Christmas over to every day of the year we will truly exemplify what Christmas and especially the Christ of Christmas is all about. I’m reminded of Max Lucado’s words: “For a few precious hours, he is beheld, Christ the Lord. Those who pass the year without seeing him, suddenly see him. People who have been accustomed to using his name in vain, pause to use it in praise. Eyes, now free of the blinders of self, marvel at his majesty. All of a sudden, he’s everywhere… I want to savor the spirit just a bit more… I can’t help but linger on one fanciful thought: If he can do so much with such timid prayers lamely offered in December, how much more could he do if we thought of him every day?”

I pray you experience the spirit of Christmas this season and all the days following like never before. Merry Christmas!

(A couple of great Christmas reads to stir the spirit: God Came Near, Max Lucado, and In Search of the Real Spirit of Christmas, Dan Schaeffer)

And although I go each year with “supporting the kids” as my primary motivation, I always find myself caught off guard by God’s love and grace.  This year was no exception.  What’s even funnier about being caught off guard by God is that I knew what was coming because I helped co-write the play “Nicholas and the Nativity” with my wife Tami Hair.

Nicholas and the Nativity was born out of a desire to “keep it simple” this year.  In other years, the children’s Christmas program included a dozen half working wireless mics and lead characters standing at center stage  slapping their forheads trying to remember their complicated lines. This year we hoped to stay away from complicated scripts and stage pieces.  So we decided to write a children’s Christmas musical play.  Our moto was “keep it simple” and our challenge was making it fun as well as thought provoking.

So after a few days my wife Tami shared her thoughts, “What if one side of the stage is a scene with a modern family, while the other side of the stage is the manger?”  She later added “The children’s chior could stand in the middle and we could go back and forth somehow having the manger scene parallel what the family is reading from the bible and discussing.”  We set the idea aside while we fixed dinner and finished helping the kids with homework and then after tucking our youngest two in bed, we began collecting our best ideas.  What finally emerged was a rough draft script about a little boy named Nicholas (Nick) who discovers the nativity under his Christmas tree.  Nicholas struggles to see how his modern Christmas experiences fit into the manger scene.  Nick’s father and mother try to explain but quickly realize they would do well to share the story straight from the Bible.  In the end, Nicholas “puts all the pieces together” and embraces the true and deeper meaning of Christmas.  My wife and I had goose bumps as we wrote out the idea that Nick would cross over from his side of the stage (family room scene) to the other side of the stage (manger scene) and kneel at the manger/throne.  We hoped that many in the audience would do the same in their hearts.

Thank you to eveyone who helped this children’s musical-play come to life.  I hope you all have a Merry Christmas.  I hope you will all find yourselves caught off guard by God’s amazing grace and love this Christmas.

Grace and Peace,

Todd E. Hair

We want to welcome you to our upcoming Christmas series entitled “Christmas Prayer”  Here is a look into weekly sermon topics and the direction we are taking our series.  Stay tuned on the following Monday of each sermon for the audio download, just in case you missed it.

December 5&6 – Prayer of Mary (Luke 1:46ff) Hope for the Humble

Big Idea:  Mary’s prayer reflects the “great reversal” of the kingdom: the humble being exalted.

• Mary believes though she is an unlikely candidate.
• She is young and a woman yet in short order she accepts whatever God has for her.
• “Who am I” is her humble reflection
• Not so much what Mary does as what is done to her to bring salvation

Take home:  Your so-called small life becomes huge when attached to God.

December 12 & 13 – Prayer of Zechariah (Luke 1:67ff) Hesitant Hope

Big Idea: Zechariah’s prayer rejoices in the fulfillment of God’s covenant promises.

• As a priest Zech should have expected something like this!  He knew the prophecies and the promises and yet he is hesitant to believe!
• Zech’s doubt is reminiscent of Abraham and Sarah’s doubt about having Isaac.
• Where in your life are you hesitant to hope?  Do you believe your financial situation can ever be better?  Your marriage? Your health?
• Why are we so hesitant to believe what we know to be true about God and His faithfulness.
• God “shut-up” Zech for 9 mos to contemplate His promises to Israel!

Take home:  Even the smallest thread of hope is powerful when attached to God’s promises.

December 19 & 20 – Prayer of the Angels (Luke 2:14) Heaven’s Hope

Big Idea:  The path to true peace on earth comes through a life dedicated to God’s glory.

• The angels give as a view from heaven.
• The close connection between heaven and earth is revealed in their brief prayer of praise.
• Our desperate search for peace on earth is bound by what we have at our disposal rather than the rich resources of heaven!
• The angels exist to give glory to God…what does a lifelong pursuit of God’s glory look like for us?

Take home:  Let’s learn to live all of life with a view toward heaven.

December 24 – Prayer of Simeon (Luke 2:29-32) Holding on to Hope – Christmas Eve

Big Idea: Simeon’s prayer reveals a lifetime of patient expectation of God’s salvation.

• Simeon (and Anna) never let go of the belief that the Messiah is coming.  Though so many in Israel had twisted the promises to mean something they never meant, these two faithful people waited patiently in the wings for the real thing.
• Both Simeon and Anna are on the fringe.  While everyone one else seemed to miss the coming of Christ these to represent the faithful remnant in Israel.
• Though minor players in the grand scheme of salvation history they herald the coming of Christ in a way that none of the religious leaders did.
• Reminiscent of Hannah’s prayer and patient waiting for a son!
• Simeon holds hope in his hands and his life is complete.

Take Home:  How much of the hope God promises is enough for you?

There are several obvious benefits of this type of format. First, there is a church wide focus on a particular topic or passage of Scripture for the week. In most church settings, one topic/passage is discussed in the weekend message, another in the Tuesday morning Bible study or weekly small group, another in children’s and youth gatherings. With one singular topic being discussed in multiple venues and in different ways, we can move beyond mere exposure to actual knowledge. Here’s a test: What was the topic of last weekend’s message? The message a month ago? It’s gone before we can ever truly apply it.

Another plus is that each group still maintains its own flavor or personality that makes it unique and impacting. People are more attentive during the weekend services, because they know they will be discussing this later in the week. There is more note-taking to have as a reference for further discussion. The neat thing in this format is that anyone can discuss what they heard – everyone has an opinion – no matter where they may be in terms of spiritual maturity. The study is not a rehashing of the weekend message, but rather takes biblical passages that are either complimentary or parallel to the main text but not covered. It allows the hearers, to take the discussion deeper than what can be covered in a large group. In other words, it takes the Word of God and plants it in our hearts and lives better than any thirty minute message could ever do.

Are you ready to jump in and see how this works? I’m pleased to say that over 50 of you said YES just last weekend. You can continue to sign-up at the Resource Desk the next couple of weekends. These groups will kick off after the weekend services of January 9-10.

If you have signed up, or are interested in being a leader/facilitator or host, we will be having a meeting on Tuesday, December 15th at 7PM at the church. We’ll answer any questions you might have or contact me at dbrown@aboutccc.com.

I have been meeting with the pastors who participate in the ministerial for about 14 years.  I have seen our group grow and change over the years.  We are committed to building relationships with each other as pastors and finding ways we can work together in our community.

The friendships I share with the pastors in our area is probably the greatest benefit I have experienced.  We also work hard to handle weddings and pre-marital counseling in ways that will be consistent for couples just looking for a quick and easy church to get married in.  We find ways to care for the poor in our community.  We also invite speakers to our monthly luncheons to share about their work in the community.

The Thanksgiving service is a culmination of the friendship and service we share in this community.  I thank God for Christian leaders whose hearts are open to him.  I also thank God for a great Thanksgiving service!  There is still lots of pie in the refrigerator that the staff will be eating.  That’s always a nice perk!

The evening began sitting around tables getting to know each other better and enjoying a great meal.  We learned that some of us have some pretty unique nicknames “Snooky” & “The Cleaner” to name  few.  Laughter and chatting could be heard throughout the room.

Dennis Olthof and Jeff Otto walked us briefly through the budget and we had overwhelming concensus (read all but 1) to affirm the budget for 2010.  Owning this together means we committ to trust God together and give as God directs us!

Pastor Drew walked us through the highlights of 2009.  We will have the video review of 2009 posted on the site very soon.

I concluded the evening with a vision for 2010.  Our Long Range Planning Team has been hard at work assessing our strengths and challenges.  We are beginning to formulate some initial plans for next 5 years.  The graphic above was the opening slide that forms the foundation of our Long Range Plans.  Everything flows out of our mission-vision-values!

The best part of the class for Pastor Drew and I is listening to the testimonies.  This class did a great job of sharing some of their pain from the past and then acknowledging God’s grace and love in the midst of that pain.

We plan to introduce the class early in December.  As you have opportunity welcome these folks!  We’ll try to get a pic of the other half of the class for you.

The coloquium doctum or doctrinal conversation lasted about 45 minutes and covered a variety of topics including: call to ministry, biblical knowledge, doctrinal knowledge and practical theology.  Pastor Drew did an outstanding job!  As a member of Classis for over 15 years I would say it is one of the best I have ever seen!

Todd Hair and Elder Dennis Olthof were present for Drew’s examination.  Liz Rudenga and Larry Boer also stopped in to see Drew on the hot seat since they both work at Trinity College where classis was held.

Thanks for those who prayed for Drew as he prepared for this and thanks to Classis Illiana for their unanimous support for Drew’s ordination in the CRC and the cordial welcome he has recieved since beginning his ministry here at Crossroads!

Check out Kris’ new Vision Video for March.

The following is a list of questions that were submitted that weekend but Pastor Drew and I did not get to them during the time we had.

#1. What is the unpardonable sin?

This question comes from Jesus’s statement in Mark 3:29 that whoever “blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven, he is guilty of an eternal sin”(NIV). As always, we need to read the passage in its context. Jesus is saying this to the religious leaders who have just accused him of being possessed by Satan. This is a serious accusation to bring against anyone let alone the Son of God! It is going to have serious consequences. Jesus wants to make it perfectly clear to the religious leaders that their rejection of Him has eternal consequences. He knows that the Holy Spirit is the one who works in our hearts to help us believe in Him. He also knew that in order to make such an accusation they were rejecting the Holy Spirit’s work in their hearts. To push away the Holy Spirit results in unforgiveness and eternal punishment. For those of you out there who are worried if you have committed the unpardonable sin…if you’re concerned that you have it naturally follows that you have not! If you’re heart is soft and open to the work of the Spirit you don’t have to worry. So take heart, repent and follow Him! Check out Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase of Mark 3:28-30 in The Message—it’s great!

#2. What is an A-millennialist?

Short answer: Me!

Long answer: There are 3 main perspectives on the end times. They are often referred to as Pre-Millenialist (ala the popular books series Left Behind), Post-Millenialist and the A-Millenialist view. The Pre- generally believe that the millennial (1,000) year reign of Christ is still coming in the future. We must endure the suffering of this world until Christ comes and renews all things. The Post millenialist believe that the church must work to bring the millennial reign of Christ. The work that we do socially, politically (ala some in the religious right) and spiritually will institute the reign of Christ on earth. Both sides have their pros and cons. The Post folks are motivated to work very hard to acknowledge Christ as Lord in every area of life, however, in my estimation they take too much responsibility into their own hands. The Pre folks are motivated by the promise of eternity that is too come, but they sometimes take an approach to the end times that tries to “scare the hell out of people”. The Pre folks can also take an approach that “lives for the bell”, in other words, just hold and endure this life until it’s over rather than work hard to change this world. The A-view, in my humble opinion, balances the best of both! It can be summarized best with the two words: “already & not-yet” (okay that’s a hyphenated word so could be 3 words). The A view says that we are already experiencing the millennial (not a literal 1,000 years) reign of Christ. We already have a taste of what it is like to be in God’s presence because of the Easter and Pentecost! But we are not-yet fully there. So we wait and work to help the world we live in experience a taste of the new heaven and new earth here and now. My best resource for more insight on these views comes from The Bible and the Future by Anthony Hoekema. The Christian Reformed Church does not have an official millennial view because we acknowledge that there is a lot we do not know about the end times.

3. What sets Christianity apart from other religions?

One word: Grace.

4. Why are there so many different interpretations of the Bible, and how do we know which one of them is right? And, why when all these interpreters all claim to be Christian, why do they all differ so much?

I would take issue with the premise of this question. I do not think there are many interpretations of the central message of the Bible. There are many different interpretations of the Bible when it comes to peripheral issues. Things like whether we should drink alcohol, what is Sabbath and how should it be observed, when is Christ’s return, how should we baptize, the list is long! However, when it comes to what Scripture communicates about how we have a relationship with the living God there is an amazing unity! What the church believes about Jesus Christ and his death and resurrection is true across denominational lines. Now, this certainly breaks down when you browse the books at Borders and see all those who question the truth of Scripture. These folks fall outside the boundaries of the church as I understand it and that’s a whole other issue. Being a “Christian” is synonymous in some ways with being American and it doesn’t mean someone looks to the Bible as God’s Word to us.

I think the best answer to your question comes in the book The Blue Parakeet. I would encourage you to get it and read it if you really want a thorough answer to this question.

5. How old is the earth?

I would appeal to my friend and former elder at Crossroads Cal Scott on this one. I’ll e-mail him and get back to you. My short answer would be that the Bible does not say how old the earth is. It gives us some clues but not scientific answers to that question.

6. How long was Jesus here on earth? How old was He when He died?

Eternity & 33 years. He was approximately 33 when he died on the Cross and approximately 33 when He rose again!

7. Why don’t the window shades go up during the closing song with consistency?

Excellent question! I too love it when the sun shines in at just the right moment in a rousing song of praise and commitment to God. Part of the reason is planning. It doesn’t always work with every song on every weekend (don’t forget our Saturday night folks who would only see a few lonely stars J). Another reason is we simply forget to plan it and/or the tech guys forget to execute the plan. We’ll try to do better! I would encourage you to consider joining the tech team or the creative team and be a part of the solution.

I had to reprint Brian B.’s comments from the Crossroads Facebook site:

Hi.

So this year I have made a commitment to read the Bible in its entirety. You know, “rolling up my sleeves and getting into the word”.
So I download a day-by-day guide as to how to read the Bible in a year and it tells me what verses to read on a daily basis (about 30 minutes of reading a day).
Anyway, I wanted to let you know (and everyone else for that matter) that by simply opening the Bible and digging in I can already see and feel the differences in my life, my marriage, and every other detail of my life.

I can’t explain it! I just feel constantly blessed and filled! I encourage everyone to do the same. I am happy the church is challenging to get serious about the word.

-Brian B.

Check out the newest vision video. I stepped out of member’s class Wednesday night and wanted to share the excitement with you. We had an amazing number of new members who shared a part of their spiritual journey. I was amazed at the number who were not going to church prior to God bringing them to Crossroads. God is at work!
Pastor Kris

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

You Can’t Sing What You Can’t Hear

I recently read a fascinating story about a musical trainer who worked with Opera singers who could not hit certain notes within an Octave, even though the notes fell within their vocal range. It was a mystery. The trainer did extensive testing on their vocal chords, but he couldn’t find any reason why they couldn’t hit those notes. On a whim, he tested their hearing. And what he discovered is that these Opera singers could not sing a note they could not hear. The problem wasn’t singing. The problem was hearing.

Made me think of that phrase that is repeated throughout the New Testament: he who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says. I think many of us are trapped in negative cycles or sinful habits or destructive addictions because we haven’t heard the loving voice of our Heavenly Father say, “This is my child in whom I am well pleased.”

When you start to hear the voice of God–His loving voice, His graceful voice, His assuring voice, His powerful voice–you begin to sing what you’re heard. By the way, this is why it’s so important to read the Word. When you open the Bible God opens His mouth.

For what it’s worth, I’d rather have people hear one word from the Lord than a thousand sermons!

posted by Mark Batterson

“Speak, O Lord”
Words and Music by Keith Getty & Stuart Townend
Copyright © 2005 Thankyou Music

Speak, O Lord, as we come to You
To receive the food of Your Holy Word.
Take Your truth, plant it deep in us;
Shape and fashion us in Your likeness,
That the light of Christ might be seen today
In our acts of love and our deeds of faith.
Speak, O Lord, and fulfill in us
All Your purposes for Your glory.

Teach us, Lord, full obedience,
Holy reverence, true humility;
Test our thoughts and our attitudes
In the radiance of Your purity.
Cause our faith to rise; cause our eyes to see
Your majestic love and authority.
Words of pow’r that can never fail-
Let their truth prevail over unbelief.

Speak, O Lord, and renew our minds;
Help us grasp the heights of Your plans for us-
Truths unchanged from the dawn of time
That will echo down through eternity.
And by grace we’ll stand on Your promises,
And by faith we’ll walk as You walk with us.
Speak, O Lord, till Your church is built
And the earth is filled with Your glory.

Vision Video

Focusing on God:

“I had forgotten that I fasted that last 2 Tuesdays until you mentioned it on Saturday night.  I will tell you that it was quite an awesome experience – when I really thought it wouldn’t be that significant at all.  You see – with the work that I do – I have many days that I don’t even think about eating until I am at the point where I am completely starving and light-headed.  And unfortunately – coffee makes up for most of my diet 9-5, Monday-Friday.

Anyway – here is my experience.   There was one thing that I learned that I was able to do – all day long – and that was to “focus”.  As I said, eating isn’t a huge part of my day and doesn’t take up a lot of my time, however, taking the time that I may have to have a snack and focusing on the Lord’s prayer verses – even for just a few minutes at a time – changed not only my entire day and how I managed it – but how my heart felt the entire day.

…To switch my focus from the destruction I see daily to focusing on the Lord and what is has promised for his people was quite an experience  My attitude was entirely different and I was able to focus on the future, the Good and what is promised to us as Christians.  I also spent some of this time praying for all of those unfortunate areas of devastation and for the families that live there.  What a brand new day for me!

All in all – it is now something that I will now do every Tuesday.”

Fire of Passion:

“…As I got down to vs. 17 [of John 2] I had that ’sense’, you know? This is it! The disciples had this flashback of the prophecy from Ps. 69:9 where it is quoted, “Passion from God’s house will consume me.” I knew how to pray for us at that point. God wanted me to pray for passion, for zeal, for jealousy for Him and for His Presence. Maybe I’ve been reading about monks too much, but I believe that God is going to give our people more passion to do His work. I believe that He is going to do some revealing of our people’s ‘holy discontent’ so that there are more little flames of passion all over our congregation. I am praying for little wildfires to catch as God stirs in us. More small groups of service, whether their passion be to the unborn, the poor, the widows and orphans, the youth, young moms, etc. I am praying for passion to ignite in our people like never before.

This is no doubt longer than you wanted to read but I needed to write it out for myself as well. I am praying that our fellowship of believers will hear His voice, and begin talking about ways that they can serve according to their passion. I know that you’ve both preached on this and that we’ve done some of this in the past but this is how He led me for this day.

The next Tues. was more intercession …[my friend from Crossroads and I] prayed together and we believe that this year of 2009 is going to be a breakthrough year for us at CCC. I look forward to reading, if possible, what God was speaking to you both and to the others that responded to this call.”

I am in an expectant mode of watching and hearing of the fruit from our people.

Fasting Questions:

“Well, I did it.  Yesterday, I did without food (except for a very small breakfast), water, car radio ( and I thoroughly enjoy listening to WMBI), my computers at school, and TV.  It was truly an experience…….one that I need to do again in order to fully comprehend and appreciate the objective behind it.

I have a friend at school… He is extremely gentle and knowledgeable regarding the Bible and God’s word.  After I told him about my fasting, he informed me that when one fasts, we need to do this privately.  Is this true?  When I fast, am I supposed to keep it to myself?  I told my friends and students I was fasting because I felt proud……….proud of my faith, my church, and my will.  What is your opinion or your interpretation of fasting?  Thanks and hope all is well with you and yours’.”

Here was my response to his questions:

I’m so glad you joined us in this experience!

Your friend is right, however, as we have been learning in our TXT series it is important to read the verses in their context.

¹⁶ “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. ¹⁷ But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. ¹⁸ Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.” Matthew 6

Jesus said this for those who were going out of their way to make it look like they were suffering greatly for their faith.  I think your intentions in sharing your fasting experience was to point people to God and His role in your life not your personal suffering.  In addition, there are a number of times in the Bible where it talks about all the people fasting together.  They would have to talk about it together and share the experience.

There is a good balance to keep when we fast.  We focus on God and at the same time He is going to lead us to love those around us more and we should tell them Who is responsible for that.

It all comes from you, it all belongs to you, it all exists for your glory.

History is your story.

The Scripture tells us, “Hear, O Israel, the LORD is our God, the LORD is one.” And you are the compassionate and merciful one. And you are loving to everyone you have made.

Now today, we rejoice not only in America’s peaceful transfer of power for the 44th time, we celebrate a hinge point of history with the inauguration of our first African-American president of the United States.

We are so grateful to live in this land, a land of unequaled possibility, where a son of an African immigrant can rise to the highest level of our leadership. And we know today that Dr. King and a great cloud of witnesses are shouting in heaven.

Give to our new president, Barack Obama, the wisdom to lead us with humility, the courage to lead us with integrity, the compassion to lead us with generosity.

Bless and protect him, his family, Vice President Biden, the Cabinet, and every one of our freely elected leaders.

Help us, O God, to remember that we are Americans-united not by race or religion or blood, but to our commitment to freedom and justice for all.

When we focus on ourselves, when we fight each other, when we forget you-forgive us.

When we presume that our greatness and our prosperity is ours alone-forgive us.

When we fail to treat our fellow human beings and all the earth with the respect that they deserve-forgive us.

And as we face these difficult days ahead, may we have a new birth of clarity in our aims, responsibility in our actions, humility in our approaches, and civility in our attitudes-even when we differ.

Help us to share, to serve, and to seek the common good of all.

May all people of good will today join together to work for a more just, a more healthy, and a more prosperous nation and a peaceful planet.

And may we never forget that one day, all nations–and all people–will stand accountable before you.

We now commit our new president and his wife, Michelle, and his daughters, Malia and Sasha, into your loving care.

I humbly ask this in the name of the one who changed my life-Yeshua, ‘Isa, Jesus [Spanish pronunciation], Jesus-who taught us to pray:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.

Amen.

Posted by Marshall Shelley on January 21, 2009

Over the last two Tuesdays, I fasted the entire day – not to be “spiritual” – I did too much complaining to be confused as spiritual! But I really wanted to hear from God – through His Word, as we’ve been challenged to do in the series TXT, and through His whispering to my heart. I find I have a better chance of hearing Him, when I’m intentionally receptive to listening. Profound, huh?

God spoke to me quite a few times about areas in my own life and relationship with Him. Many encouraging and comforting words – others hurt a bit. But I found that it wasn’t only important to set aside food to hear from Him, it was important to set aside activity. Revelation: I am so easily distracted!

I listened to God last week and followed through with just a few simple things that were on His heart for me. God blessed my obedience. I want to hear Him better and more consistently, not just when I push away from my Fruity Pebbles! The God of the universe wants to talk to me, and I’m too busy?! The spiritual disciplines are great conduits to wonderful habits and a bit eye opening about what a whimp I am. I’m off to lunch…

Monday, January 12, 2009

285 Years Ago Today

On January 12, 1723, Jonathan Edwards made a solemn dedication of Himself to God. It was one of the defining moments of His life. And I’ll share the written vow in a moment.

Few people have left the kind of legacy that Jonathan Edwards did. He is famous for his sermons, including Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God, that helped spark the Great Awakening. He graduated from Yale at 13 as valedictorian. After graduating, he is said to have studied thirteen hours a day. He also served as President of Princeton.

But the thing I find most impressive is that he spent one hour every evening with his eleven children. He prioritized his family and the results speak for themselves. Of his known descendants, more than 300 have become ministers or missionaries; 120 became university professors; over 100 became lawyers; 60 became prominent authors; there are 30 judges, 14 college presidents, 3 members of congress, and 1 vice-president.

How would you like to leave that kind of legacy?

Back to January 12, 1723. Edwards gave himself to God with these words:

I made a solemn dedication of myself to God, and wrote it down; giving up myself, and all that I had to God; to be for the future, in no respect, my own; to act as one that had no right to himself, in any respect. And solemnly vowed, to take God for my whole portion and felicity; looking on nothing else, as any part of my happiness, nor acting as if it were; and his law for the constant rule of my obedience.

posted by Mark Batterson at 7:00 AM

They arrived on our doorstep on Christmas Eve with a drum banging (playing might be a stretch!), delivering TWELVE DRUMMERS DRUMMING in the form of 12 chocolate dipped pretzel sticks. Wow, each night in the midst of brutal weather, these guys delivered another day’s worth of Christmas joy. I have to admit, it really was one of the highlights of our Christmas season.

So a big THANK YOU to the Hair family and all who helped to bring The Twelve Days of Christmas alive to the Brown family. Can’t wait for next Christmas… Let’s see what are some of my other favorite carols???

We had four gifts toward bibles in the auditorium! 3 gifts of the suggested $312 and one gift for $500 – total of $1,436. I am excited to have Bibles available in the auditorium as we roll up our sleeves in 2009 and and get serious about God’s word. We will put any extra funds toward the general fund since we had additional gifts in this area.

$1,000 given toward ministry shares. (Ministry Shares goes to the Christian Reformed Church to support ministries like Home Missions, World Missions, Back To God, Calvin Seminary, and many more!)

$2,000 was given for our missionaries! ($500 to Pastor Shem – Nigeria;$500 to Tshililo Liphadzi – South Africa; $500 to Dodds – Papua New Guinea; $500 to Jerry Vreeman at L.I.O.N.)

$2,000 to Benevolence Fund (of which some has already been used to provide a NIPSCO payment for a family in our church)

$2,000 was designated for a flat-screen TV in atrium. This will help us to use the atrium to better facilitate teaching (MOPs, Bible Studies, Meet and Greet with Missionaries, Mens Fraternity) as well as allow people who need to be in the atrium during a service they can still participate in the service with a better TV and better sound. The current set up makes it almost impossible to see and hear the service well.

We also had another, smaller flat screen donated for the cafe!

God is Good!

I know He is going to do amazing things through Crossroads Church in 2009!

-Pastor Kris

This is what we found:

Yes, my friends are not only creative, they endure any elements. Wonder if they hail from Alaska???

And for my wife:

For those following this saga, five GOLDEN ONION RINGS showed up on my front porch last night! Delighted!

But this Christmas season this song has taken on a new meaning – I would almost say it has come to life! It all began on Saturday, December 13th – keep in mind that is 12 days before Christmas (a little hint). As I got home from church that night, sitting on my front porch in a little Christmas gift bag was a can of pears. Strange, right? But that night in my message I had talked about trying to open cans without a can opener. I was thankful that someone had at least been listening! Weird, but still thankful.

On Sunday night, the doorbell rang in the evening but when opened no one was there – only another Christmas gift bag – this time with two Dove chocolate doves. Now Carrie and I have raised five very smart children. I, at this point, had no clue – just thankful for a bit of fruit and some chocolate! My oldest son said, “This is the Twelve Days of Christmas – two turtle doves…” and I shouted “and a partridge in a PEAR tree!” How fun!

The song has continued right on cue each night: Monday we received at our front door three bags of warm FRENCH fries – better than the hens any day! On Tuesday night, my creative friends had FOUR CALLING BIRDS identify themselves as such, as we received four phone calls!

So tonight I am looking to cash in big time – FIVE GOLDEN RINGS!! Whoever my friends are that are allowing my family and I to wait in anticipation each night for our next lyric, THANK YOU! We feel like kids waiting for sunrise on Christmas morning. Too much fun!

I, personally, can’t wait for the nine ladies dancing! What will the neighbors think?!

The angel said to the shepherds, “Don’t be afraid. I bring you good news, great joy which will be for all people everywhere. Today in the town of David a Savior is born and this Savior is the Messiah. He’s the King, he’s the Lord, he’s the one this sorry dark world has been waiting for all these centuries.” (Luke 2:10-11)

And then the angel says, “Here’s the sign, here’s the tip-off that will enable you to recognize the real deal when you get to him.” (12a) And if you’re a shepherd, you most likely expect this sign’s going to be pretty impressive. If this is a royal child, you’re expecting the angel to say, “You’ll recognize the baby because you’ll find him wrapped in silk, lying in a golden crib and living in a fabulous palace because that’s how kings do it in this world.”

But the angel doesn’t say anything like that. The angel says, “You’ll find this baby born in a barn, wrapped in rags, laid in a feed trough.” (12b)

It’s ironic because today whenever you see a nativity scene in somebody’s home or in a shopping center, it always looks so neat. People in the nativity scene look all cleaned up and spiffy! Their robes look all ironed and everything.

But in the actual barn where Jesus was born, it wasn’t that way. Because a barn’s a messy place. Nobody went through the barn and scoured it ahead of time. It looked and smelled the way barns always looked and smelled. It was not a nice place to have a child. The baby got laid in a manger – not a high-end product in the crib line! A manger is a feed trough!

The angels say the fact that Jesus ended up here is not an accident. This is a tip-off; this is a dead giveaway that this is Jesus – no ordinary king. Here’s the clue: you can recognize him because he will show up in the messiest place you can imagine. No power. No money. No fanfare. No applause. No newspapers. No headlines. Born in a barn, wrapped up in rags, surrounded by animals, entrusted to this poverty-stricken young couple.

The king of the universe, the Alpha and the Omega enters into human history in a little bundle, wrapped in obscurity and poverty and humility. Because there’s no place he won’t go, because there’s no thing he won’t do, because there are no depths he will not descend in order to bring His love and grace and presence to anybody who will have him.

This really is Good News, because I’m a messy person living in a messy world! But our God isn’t afraid of a mess!

After going back and forth on this for a couple of weeks, I’ve decided to just do it. I mentioned recently that I’m not sure I like Christians. With the help of some of my friends, here are the top…

10 Reasons I Don’t Like Most Christians

1. They consistently seem angry and bitter and worried. I thought Christians were supposed to reflect joy and kindness and peace.
2. They don’t dream big dreams. That seems odd given the fact that we’re supposedly worshiping a God who is “able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare ask or hope.”
3. They seem to worship their theology more than Jesus. For whatever reason, this appears to be especially true for folks that come from a reformed theology.
4. They don’t like it when other people or ministries experience success. Think about it. There are Christians who would be overwhelmed with joy if NewSpring experienced fewer salvations, fewer baptisms and our attendance dropped.
5. They use prayer as an excuse for inaction. They’re waiting for God to do his thing, but they aren’t willing to step out in faith and obedience.
6. They’re more concerned with the BMW next door than the lost person who drives it. Christians hate people with money. They’re willing to sacrifice time and money for those without it, but they’re satisfied to let “rich” people go to Hell.
7. They would rather people live life without Jesus than give up their personal preferences. What happens when your preferred teacher doesn’t teach? What happens when your preferred worship leader doesn’t lead? What happens when you don’t like the music?
8. They are fake. They dress up a certain way on Sunday and they live as completely different people the rest of the week.
9. They think they’re better than other people. That’s why they create rules to follow. It helps differentiate why they are holy while others are not.
10. They’re comfortable with mediocrity. Doesn’t matter where. Think Christian music and movies. Think how we invest our time and money. You don’t seriously think God deserves our best do you?

The reality is that I’ve sinned in just about every one of these areas. It pains me to say that, but it’s true. If people hear the Gospel and reject Jesus, that’s one thing. If I’m the barrier to people accepting Christ because of me and my sin, that’s a completely different deal. Fortunately, God’s much bigger than my stupidity.

When does your humanness get in the way of people knowing the hope, forgiveness and love of Jesus? Does your life make people curious about the claims of Jesus or does it make them flee? What would you add to the list? – Tony Morgan

Rolling Up Our Sleeves is our motto for 2009!

I shared this idea with Todd (and that was a mistake ). Todd said, “You , know what my grandpappy used to say?”  What did your grandpa say, Todd? “He said if you have to roll up your sleeves you wore the wrong shirt!”

But for most of us, the idea of rolling up our sleeves means its time to get to work! This isn’t a quick fix like we thought it might be. It’s going to take some time. It’s going to take some work. This is a serious endeavor and we have to dig in.2009 is time for us to dig in. In ancient times it we might say something like, “Gird up your loins”. But that sounds like something you’d start up the grill for! Is that the same as marinating?  Anyway, we’ll stick with Rolling Up Our Sleeves!

Part 1 – Getting into God’s Word

We’re rolling up our sleeves to get serious about God’s Word. This is not a message series no gimmicks or ponies to help make it easier for you. Nobody’s going to hold your hand and read it for you. We’re going to be a people that pick up the Bible first. Before we pick up the latest best seller, before we pick up Max Lucado, Bishop TD Jakes or even—even John Ortberg! Even before we click on the TV! We’re going to pick up God’s Word to us. We’re not going to read it because we have to, we’re not going to read it to check it off our list, we’re not even going to read it for what we can get out of it.

We’re going to read it because it is God breathed…living and active…teaching, correcting, reproof…His word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path…shaper than any double edged sword…we want to hide in our hearts that we might not sin against God…and finally because we take delight in His Word!

We’re going to get Dusty. In Jesus day it was said of good disciples that they “got dusty” because they followed their Rabbi so closely that the dust from his sandals fell all over them. We want the dust from Jesus’ sandals to fall all over us. Let’s gird up our loins—roll up our sleeves and open His Word.

Part 2 – Getting into people’s lives.

We also need to roll up our sleeves and get serious again about building relationships with people who don’t know God.

-If you’re like me you have people you’ve invited that have come for a short time. Two of my neighbors came once, another neighbor has come a few times. Folks I meet on the ball fields will come a couple of times and disappear.

The reality is that probably 1 out of every 6 people we invite will stick. Jesus experienced similar results. He had huge crowds that followed and only few that stuck once they understood the costs involved.

-Another neighbor came for a long time and now they go to the church they had fallen away from this time with renewed spiritual vitality. That is not a failure to me because they don’t come to “my church”. God has worked powerfully in their lives since we have known them. The ministry of this church continues to impact them and the Kingdom of God has grown!

-There are some who I continue to pray for that still have not come to know Christ.

-This work of introducing people to Jesus Christ and helping them understand the radical call He places on their lives is fraught with complexities and pitfalls along the way.

Shall we just throw in the towel? Shall we say we’ve done as much of the mission as we can Lord. Surely He will say we’ve done enough! We’ve done more than most.

I will not quit until they pry my cold dead fingers from my neighbors doorknob!

I will not quit until thy cart my carcass from my chair at the coffee shop!

I will not quit until I go out on a gurney from my kids games! (which may happen sooner than later if I don’t calm down!)

It’s time to Roll up our Sleeves and get serious about seeking the lost and discipling them to be God’s subjects in the Kingdom!

These two parts (God’s Word & God’s Mission)are intimately tied together. Reaching the lost is not just explaining to them how they can be rescued from a Christ-less eternity. It is discipling them to know that an eternity with Christ starts today! It is knowing what it means to live in the Kingdom of God in the here and now. That takes getting into His Word. Too many of us haven’t rolled up our sleeves to get into God’s word so we are living a half-baked Christian life and teaching a half-baked Gospel. The people we reach need to get dusty from the master’s sandals as much as we do.

Will you roll up your sleeves with me?

No excuses, no gimmicks—do the work. God’s work. The mission He has called us to.

The baptisms we celebrated tonight are symbolic of the work God has called us to do in this community. Let’s do it!

Funny, isn’t it how you get connected to a team. My sons are Philadelphia Phillies fans. living in the shadow of Chicago. I would have never believed it, as I grew up hating them as a nemesis to my beloved Cincinnati Reds. But having lived in South Jersey for eight years, they took to the Phillies and Eagles, Sixers and Flyers. It sounded strange to people in Oklahoma and Arkansas when they heard that I was a fan of the Reds and the Bengals… The teams of our youth become those we pin our hopes on for the rest of our lives. I couldn’t even tell you half a dozen players for the Reds today, but I can almost recite the lineup from the mid to late 70′s when the Big Red Machine dominated the big leagues. Rose, Morgan, Bench, Perez, Foster, Tolan, Concepcion…

So Congrats to the Phillies on winning the NL pennant, and to my sons on their team. Hope they – YOU – win it all!

There were many obstacles in that first year of ministry.  Each time God seemed to solidify in my mind this axiom:  “If it’s going to happen, I’m (God!) going to do it!”  In other words, if any good thing is going to be accomplished in this church God will be the one to make it happen!  We plan, we pray, we work but we always remember that God is the one who brings the increase.   Our calling is to be faithful to Him.  We must be faithful in our love for Him, faithful to our families and faithful to our calling.  I found great comfort in this axiom.  It is so easy to get stressed out about the work of ministry.   The temptation is to try and take control and make things happen.  On my better days I remember this axiom and do my best to work hard, remain faithful and leave the results to God.

“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”  Heb 6:10

As he confessed his failures to us he became transparent in a way I had never seen anyone do.  I could see right through my dad and what I saw was Jesus.  Conventional wisdom says that we lead through our strengths and abilities.  Godly wisdom says we lead through our brokenness.  When we try to be strong, smart and edgy we just come off as full of ourselves.  When we depend totally on God and we’re honest about our failures God reveals his power through us.  (See II Corinthians 12:9)

Here are a couple of questions you might consider:

What do you think the definition of hypocrisy is? What are some examples of hypocrisy in your life that you should be more transparent about?

The research from Kinnaman describing “lifestyle gaps” (pgs 46-48) shows that born again Christians are often not very different from others in terms of lifestyle activities and choices. What’s your reaction? What do you think contributes to this?

Why do you think Christians put such an emphasis on “being good” rather than being real? Why are some of the key parts of the Christian faith so often ignored?

What other thoughts came to your mind after listening to Hypocritical? Did you try any of the suggestions Kris offered?

Ever read a passage of Scripture that you’ve read many time before and it’s like you’ve never read it? Something jumps off the page at you – a word is there that wasn’t before? I read Colossians 1:28-29 this morning: “We proclaim him [Jesus], admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me. (NIV)

I’ve read this before, I’ve studied this before, I’ve preached this before. But it was the word his that got me. “with all his energy…” I’ve gone back to this verse many times to remind me of my calling to preach, teach, challenge folks with the goal of pushing us toward maturity in Christ. My calling, my work – but it says his. Hmmmm…

These two verses must not be separated from each other. Any striving on our part to help others become like Jesus must be dependent on his energy before anything of eternal consequence will occur. He wants to touch with our hands, speak with our tongues, walk with our feet, and most of all love through our hearts. This is our only hope for a lasting impact.

We see this modeled perfectly in the life of Jesus. At every turn he radically depended on the Father alone. Jesus didn’t come to initiate a work for God, but joined in the work his Father was already doing – John 5:17: Jesus said to them, “My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working.” (NIV)

Sin has introduced into the world the outrageous suggestion that man can do life without God; that by our own wisdom and through our own strength we can make life work. Sin has also introduced a similar deception to the church – that Christians can do ministry without God. No one would admit to believing that, but it happens far more than we’d like to admit. I’ve done it far more than I’d like to admit! But true ministry is all God’s work from beginning to end, done through us. What will it take then, for our lives to be opened so wide that the life of Jesus can overflow to those outside? I’ll explore some thoughts in future posts.

This axiom has come through some pain.  We’ve made mistakes when we haven’t done our homework and we’ve learned how valuable it is to take the time to prepare well for any major decision.  When we went to two Sunday morning services about 7 years ago we spent a long time learning from churches who had been down the road before us.  We laid the groundwork so well that we were overprepared to launch our 2nd service.  When we hire staff we have a long list of steps that each of our current staff had to go through before they were offered the position.  When we decided to build the planning process to longer than the actual building process because we wanted to make good decisions.

We still ask that question of leaders on a regular basis.  If we want to start a new ministry, if we want to make a “Bold Move” as “brickhouse” just did, or if we want do radio ads as we did to launch our Saturday night service we ask each other: “Have you done your homework?”

Jesus suggested that we do this in matters of faith as well.  One of his axiom’s was “count the cost” which has a similar idea behind it.  If you are going to choose to be a follower of Christ — do your homework.  You must know that it will cost you everything.  Don’t step into a relationship with God thinking that it will be “manageable”.  It won’t be.  To follow Christ means to be “managed” by God.  You give up your right to be in charge.  I’m still in the process of doing my homework on faith.  I think it’s a life long process.  But everything I have learned so far tells me that giving my life away equals glory to God and Kingdom growth!

We have them in the Crossroads Family as well.  Some of them we have written down and some are just informal ones that we use without being consciously aware of them.  One of the axiom’s we use around here is: “How would a non-Christian respond to that?.”  We try to ask this question in all of the ministries around this church.  It is one of the things that makes us unique as a church.  We want to keep the priority of reaching out to those who do not know God.  We want to make sure that truth of God’s word is presented clearly.  God’s Word must be communicated to those who do not know God with all of it’s power, passion, pain, peace and perspicuity.

I want to reflect on a few more of the axioms we use around here in the next few blogs.

I love to read. It’s one of my favorite pastimes. Most of my reading is in the areas of Christian living, the church, family/marriage, and biographies. I rarely read fiction, except a John Grisham novel when it hits the shelf. So I was hesitant this summer when I heard all the hoopla about The Shack by William P. Young. My brother-in-law was reading it at the family reunion, and he said I needed to read it. And I did. It was powerful, riveting, mind-stretching, theologically out-of-the-box, but more than anything, it exposed an ache in my soul. Without giving away the plot, the main character, Mack, has a life-changing experience with God – one that touched a yearning in me for a greater intimacy with God. The richness of the dialogue with the Triune God made me want to go back and read the lines over and over again, hearing God speak to me, not Mack. The book really caught me off guard. The early chapters were so emotionally draining that I wanted to stop reading. But my wife said, “Keep reading.” I’m glad I did. I will go back and read this book again when I feel myself distant from God, or when I need to hear him in a different way. My prayer is that many unsuspecting travelers will pick up this NY Times bestseller and be swept off their feet by the living God, who meets them right where they are on their journey. I was!

I celebrated another birthday this summer and now sit on the verge of 50. No big deal? Not for me. I still look good – a touch of gray always adds some class. Reading glasses are just that, reading glasses. The body slowing or aching really doesn’t cause me angst. It’s when I begin to reflect that I’m in the final third of my life that I feel the pain. I don’t say that with any morbidity or despair but with a sense of reality. Knowing this doesn’t make me want to linger longer in bed or feel sorry for myself – these are the “golden years,” if I allow them to be. Along these 49 years of life I’ve gotten a good education – academically and “on the street.” I’ve experienced success and failure, learning the true value of the latter without giving up on the former. Years spent trying to make a name for myself, now comes down to making sure I leave a good name for my kids. Wisdom, good judgment, and character have replaced dreams of success, wealth, or power. So much of the first two-thirds of my life have been focused on me – ironic since my calling and vocation is ministry. Too often those I’ve ministered to have been a means to an end. The last third offers me an opportunity to get it right. To leverage my age, my experience, my knowledge and hopefully my wisdom to impact some lives, by example, by giving, by mentoring, by praying, and by learning to listen more and better. Can you imagine if I was only at the one-third mark of life instead of two-thirds? But it took this long to learn! These years, I pray, will be my most productive and fruitful for Him. Moses began his new assignment at 80. So I’ll live today like I’m already 50 – that gives me a head start!

One of my favorite pastimes or hobbies is people-watching. So every other year, I am afforded the joy of attending my wife, Carrie’s family reunion. Family dynamics and interactions are the best to observe. It’s there that you get a sense of how your spouse “turned out that way.” You even begin to notice idiosyncrasies in your brother-in-law that have now been absorbed into your daughter’s habits! UGH! And everyone looks alike – not in every feature – but a nose here, eyes there, body shapes (?!), curls or straight hair, even down to the toes. Even though it’s a large family, my wife is #5 of 10 kids, now multiplied with their kids, and their kids and…well you get the picture, they are all very close. There is a unique bond like no other. Simply said: They are family. Though they rarely agree on anything, and everyone has an opinion, there is a bond much tighter than political parties or sports team loyalties. They are family.  I don’t doubt for a moment, and have actually seen it played out, that if any one of them had a need or experienced a loss, the rest would be there to help pick up the pieces. They are family. Is it any wonder that believers are called to be a part of the family of God? Brothers and sisters to each other. So different, yet with one very important connection through Jesus Christ – we are family! 1 John 3:1: How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.(NIV)

It was one of those moments that every parent dreams of, tries to prepare for, and in some way hopes will not come so quickly! Carrie and I married off our oldest daughter, Tabitha, this summer to Steven Massey on July 5^th. It was a beautiful wedding with just the right mixture of laughter and tears – you come to weddings expecting to dab the eyes a bit, right? I had a unique perspective, if not the very best seat in the house. Everyone knows that the focus of the wedding is the bride. Sure, the groom and all the guys he’s roped into dressing up look sharp, standing in front of a bunch of smiling people who think they should “clean up” more often. But no one remembers what the groom wore or the color of his shoes, even the bridesmaids take a back seat to the bride. And what a beautiful bride she was – my daughter – my little girl. All those years of playing house and dress up as bride crossed the line into reality when the doors to the church opened and I, her dad, walked her down the aisle. Best seat in the house – right beside the bride. There was so much I wanted to say to her, to relive with her, but that time was past and I simply said, “I love you!” and to her young but anxious groom, “Love her well.” Why is it that you wait a lifetime for a specific moment, to speak into it, and then at that moment you lack the words to share? It’s because in the moment it’s not the words shared, it’s the life that has been shared over the many moments that didn’t seem so profound or important at the time. The impact we have as parents, even as friends, doesn’t usually come in a moment in time but over a lifetime. Sow seeds every day. All of them may not take root today, or even tomorrow. Some ground needs tilled more. Sometimes it’s the wrong seed at that time. Keep sowing. As I said, I had the best seat in the house – well, really I had to stand – but I stood before Tabitha and Steve with Pastor Kris, as we rehearsed again for them what marriage is. More seeds sown. But also in that moment Carrie and I saw some fruit – some beautiful, shining produce from seeds we had sown so many years ago. And we smiled, and we laughed, and yes, we cried, in experiencing again the goodness of God and the faithfulness of his promises.

As I read Allen Guelzo’s Abraham Lincoln: Redeemer President I am amazed to find how human Lincoln was.  He had family dysfunction, struggles with indecision, doubts about faith and at times extremely depressed.  Through it all history shows that he was exactly the leader we needed to lead us through the Civil War.  It wasn’t always his strengths and skills that made him the right man.  Sometimes it was his weaknesses that God used to guide our country.  In the end though Lincoln’s story is more about God shaping history.  It is a story of God rescuing His people from slavery and rescuing His people from themselves.

More than ever I want to be like Lincoln.  Not because he was such a great leader but because he was a man God used in spite of all the flaws.  I want my story to be more about God than it is about me.

We intentionally started last meeting by trying to build on an area of our strength.  God has used Crossroads to reach people who are far from God.  He has done that consistently throughout our history.  How can we build on that to do even more in the area of evangelism.  Future meetings will cover other areas for growth but this meeting would focus  on reaching the unchurched of our community.  There was much lively conversation throughout the evening.  We ended with some rapid fire practical ideas from each person in the room.  Though still in the early stages these ideas may develop into something more.

• Every person in our church be ready to give an account (testimony) at a moments notice.
• Coaching clinic for all of our moms and dads out there coaching kids in our community.
• Mentors ready to connect with new believers/attenders and help them become a part of our family.
• Become students of our community.  Find out more about the needs and challenges of the people we rub shoulders with every day.
• Evangelism training–with homework!
• Follow-up teams that are proactive in building relationships.
• Spend time with my neighbors–maybe even cancel church or church activities once in a while so that we can spend more time with our neighbors!
• Mobilize our seniors.

Share your ideas here on the blog!