Patriots beat the Giants

Hey there.

I am blown away by reports that tickets to the Giants game this weekend are selling for thousands and thousands of dollars.

Ok... can we be smart about this? The game is officially one hour long. That means, you are paying about $430/min to be in a suite... in Giants stadium! We're not even talking lavish quarters here.

There ya go. Now hand over your SUV. That's essentially what you're saying.

Look, I know a record will be broken and all... but is it REALLY that big of a deal? Next season will come, people will hate the Patriots, and in a few years, they'll go 1-15 just like the Dolphins did.



For $26,000, my view better look like this...

I had better be hosting the post game show and sitting in the locker room, with my name on a locker... with tickets to the Super Bowl in hand--throw in the Pro Bowl, too--since it is in Hawaii.

Happy Saturday football, everyone...

For what it's worth: Patriots 31 - Giants 10

My Apologies

I went from two posts in an hour to no posts in a month.
In addition to the crazy Christmas schedule, I have also been working on the new Emergence website, which will contain my blog, as well as the blogs of Ryan Baitzel and other special guests!

It should go live in a week or two. Keep your eyes peeled at emergencenj.org!

I like this guy...

Wow. two posts in one hour! :)
I just had to pass this on... the author of the book I've been commenting on, Dan Kimball, just posted his thoughts on New Jersey (and specifically ministry in Jersey). Have I mentioned I like him?

In case you didn't believe me...

Just an addition to the last post. Further proof this is what the world thinks of us.

Note: this is satire... but all satire has its foundation in perception, and perception is truth to an individual.

God hates who?!?

WARNING... don't read this post if you can't handle open and frank discussion:

When I look at the Church, I see a place that is the hope of mankind to share the powerful, life-changing beauty of the Gospel. I see groups of people that try to do their best to share the love of Christ with those around them. I see sanctuaries of grace placed in nearly every town in this country--places where, in theory, you should be able to come regardless of race, age, gender, or sexual orientation **cue car crash sound effect**... WAIT... WHAT?!? sexual orientation? you mean GAY people should be welcome here?

yeah... welcome to today's church. I am unmistakably thankful for the fact that the church I attend not only accepts people who are struggling in all ways of life, but welcomes those struggling with homosexuality with open arms.

I told you what i see. Unfortunately, this is what those outside of the church see:



a little different picture, huh? if the photo turns your stomach and down right ticks you off, don't get mad at me. i don't wear red hats... and i'm beginning to think you shouldn't, either.

This is part four of a series of posts responding to Dan Kimball's book, They Like Jesus, But Not the Church. The next grand perception that Dan Kimball says non-believers have about the church today is that it is homophobic.

Let me start out by saying that much of the problem of the way homosexuality is viewed today is semantics. Let me explain: If someone in your church is regularly engaged in pornography or adultery or lies a lot, they don't introduce themselves in this way... "Hi, I'm Peter, and I'm a pervert (or an adulterer, liar... insert sin here)." They don't even introduce themselves as a generic sinner. They usually follow their name with small items like what they do for a living, or how long they've been attending the church, etc. Compare that to the typical conversation from someone struggling with homosexuality who is trying to open up. "I'm gay" is the identifying trait. Their very identity is drawn into a simple three letter word. As the church starts to adopt the same view, they perpetuate the problem. First and foremost, those struggling with homosexuality are sinners like you and I--sinners who are loved by God enough that He would give His life for them. They may have completely different temptations to stray from obedience to God, but don't we all?

I find it very interesting how the soteriology (theology of sin) of many believers and church bodies can be so completely unbiblical. You have the little sins: little white lies... stealing a pen from work... getting an extra dollar from the cashier and pocketing it. Then you have the medium sins: bigger lies... lustful thoughts... light sensual contact... materialism... gambling... laziness... gluttony... gossiping. Next comes the big ones: pornography... fornication... drunkenness... drugs. Then the ultimate peak of sinhood: adultery... murder... and, oh my goodness... homosexuality!! The very label becomes a stigma that many people who struggle with it would rather die than be honest about who they feel they are. At the very heart of all sin is a deep rooted love for self. That innate desire is the same in the person who kills, lies, gets drunk, or sleeps with someone outside of marriage--whether the opposite or the same sex. If we can all see that simple fact, we'd be one baby step closer to truly loving people of all struggles.

...and if we could only truly love those people, it would change the world. I know it would. I've seen it.

I was 18 years old, living in Chicago. I was going to school for music. I was involved in theatre productions. Those of you who know anything of these fields know I have been highly exposed to many people who have homosexual feelings. I had been doing theatre for years, but was pretty sheltered from it all, until now. I was old enough to 'handle it.' One of my friends was named Tim. He was a super happy guy--gay in the old definition--who also happened to be attracted to men. Because I worked with him all the time, I spent many many hours with him. While he made it clear from the beginning he had feelings for me, I laid down the law very honestly with him in the beginning and told him my boundaries. He respected them. More than that, he completely observed them. In return, I trusted him, and he trusted me. We hung out. We were friends. I never paid any mind to his orientation... that is until he brought it up.

One day we were hanging out, and Tim said... "So, Steve. You know I'm gay." I said, "of course...you don't try to hide it." "Then why do you hang out with me? I mean... you're a Christian, aren't you?" He asked. "You know I am. Jesus has changed my life." I said. Tim followed with a phrase that has stuck with me ever since: "People like you don't accept people like me."

At the time, it didn't really register--the gravity of what he was saying. But a decade later, it reminds me of the impact that a simple act like loving people beyond their struggles can have. Tim and I still exchange emails to this day. I don't think he minds me sharing this story. I love Tim. And if you're reading this, Tim, I'm still praying for you--praying that you'll come to know Christ...right where you're at.

What it all comes down to is this: Jesus wants to change lives. He wants the hearts of all of His creation. He doesn't only want their hearts if they'll stop being tempted with homosexual thoughts. He wants their lives even before then. His Spirit will deal with the next steps.

Just as the church needs to be seen as the place that women can thrive more than any other place in the world, the church also needs to be seen as the place that accepts people who engage in homosexuality more than anywhere else in the world. That's a tall order, and it only comes by seeing ourselves in an honest light. We are all the same--undeserving, unlovable, perverse... by nature, objects of wrath. Don't like it? Take it up with the Author. I'm pretty certain he doesn't wear red hats, either.

Welcome to the Boys Club...?

Boys and girls are different. I mean, aside from the obvious physical differences, there is much that separates men and women. It took me years to know the full extent of that truth. If you ask my wife, she may even tell you that I still don't get it. I probably don't. Regardless, the truth still stands: we are created unique in our emotions, our bodies, and our thinking. This is obvious to everyone in the world, everyone in the church, and to God.

We do our best to celebrate diversity in our church services. We celebrate racial diversity, social diversity, and rejoice when people who represent another facet of culture begin being a part of our community. It makes us better. It more accurately reflects the body of Christ and the global nature of the Church. The question in my mind is this: in a place where our leaders are primarily men and spiritual truths regarding gender differences exist, are we celebrating the diversity of gender as much as we should be? If not, how can we show the world that the church is a place where both men and women alike can have the opportunity to reach their full potential?

This is part three of a series of posts responding to Dan Kimball's book, They Like Jesus, But Not the Church. The next grand perception that Dan Kimball says non-believers have about the church today is that it is a place dominated by males which oppresses females.

Just as Dan wrote in his book, writing on this topic gives me a lot of nervous tension. I understand that a person or church's theology certainly dictate their policies about female leadership in the church. I have been in churches that do not allow women to have any part in their services. I have also been in churches that women are permitted to be elders. I know of churches all over the country where a woman holds the senior pastor position. I also know places where women must still wear hats and cannot speak in church at all. I am not (nor is Dan in his book) intending to engage in a debate over whether or not women should be leaders in the church. The point here is to realize what those outside of the church believe about the church--and understand a little bit better why those who are 18-35 may be reluctant to set foot in our services or our communities.

No matter what your theological opinion is on this issue, take a look at the way you communicate your belief to your congregation or to those you engage in discussion with about topics like this one. The church should be a place that everyone sees women are valued more than any other. If there is one place that people can turn to in order to see the value that God puts on females, it should be in the church. As it stands now, for the most part, women are recognized as wonderful leaders outside of the church walls. Inside, not only are they not recognized as such, they are told that they cannot even be leaders. I know I am generalizing here, but so do those who refuse to enter churches week after week. As Kimball writes on page 119, "Jesus would pay attention to how females feel both in the church and society in general."


Biblically, there are arguments on both sides of the matter of women in church leadership. The Bible does speak to the topic of women as elders or pastors. In 1 Timothy 3 we see that elders (or pastors) should adhere to a standard of character. While all of these standards are speaking of men, is there a chance, even remotely, that this is a cultural thing? Women would not even be considered leaders in that day and age. This thought aside, there are good reasons biblically for observing the distinction in genders. In 1 Timothy 2, for example, Paul writes that women should not have authority over a man or teach a man. If he left it there, one could argue it is personal preference. He does, however, go on to say the reason for such a belief, and it is a biblical one. Does that mean that men can learn nothing from women? Absolutely not. I learn things from my wife every day. Is she teaching me? Absolutely... and I am a pastor! Let's not take this farther than it should be taken. So, when does a woman teaching become unbiblical? That is left to the interpreter. If you want to take this passage completely literally, then you cannot have a female sharing a devotion at a small group. You cannot have a woman giving a presentation about children's ministries or women's ministries in church (since she would hopefully share something spiritual as well). You cannot have a woman even participating in a spiritual discussion with other men, since the point of discussion is to learn and exchange ideas. How far down the road are you willing to go? Besides, how many of you have also tried to explain the lines that follow in 1 Timothy that say a woman is saved through childbearing? Go ahead... blog about that one :)

It is obvious that in the grand scheme of things--in eternity--gender does not matter. In Galatians, we read, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." So, in Christ, we are all even. However, until eternity, God has given us roles. He is the one who made us what we are. He also gives us instruction on how to manage our lives, our churches and our homes. We cannot, however, lose sight of the equality of value of men and women. This is the thing that the church has done in many ways and it is exactly the thing that people outside the church see as hypocritical--for good reason. We are all created in God's image. So, as Kimball asks on page 121, "As a church, are we reflecting the wholeness of God and the fact that human beings, both males and females, are created in God's image?" I can't tell you the last time I heard that very point brought to the forefront in a message. Are we intentionally making our stance on gender known? Are we empowering women to be all they can be? Or, are we allowing our churches to become boys clubs that we keep girls around in so that we can have meals cooked for us and have the building get decorated nicely?

Let me state plainly... I have never heard a complaint about this attitude at the Chapel in the 4 years I have been here. I just know that this perception about the church does exist, and we need to be aware of it and take action to explain clearly where we stand.

I think Kimball makes some great suggestions at how to tackle some of these issues in churches. We need to have a balance of males and females leading different ministries and participating in the decision making process. If you believe women shouldn't be elders or teachers, that is ok, but what does the Bible say about making them a part of the decision making process? Where does it say they should never speak in our services (and don't give me that stuff from Corinthians. We all know what Paul was addressing there in the Corinthian church)? If you have a stance on females in leadership, learn the biblical grounds for it. Let's not pontificate here. Our authority comes from Scripture, so explain it from Scripture. And don't just explain it to individuals who complain. Make it a part of your teaching. Talk about it in sermons. Discuss it in membership classes. This is nothing to hide. The average Christian needs to be able to explain their position just as well as the pastoral staff or elders. Also, teach them the cultural implications of the day in which it was written. Give them a full understanding of how to interpret the Word. If you have numerous staff members and the only females you have in your office are secretaries, this is, most likely something you should look at honestly.

More than all of this, we should look past policies. Look past our church baggage. When a man or woman comes up to you and asks why you don't have females in leadership in your church or why they never see a woman on the platform on Sunday, what is your answer? Leave your church policy behind. What's in your heart, biblically? And how do you communicate it? It may mean the difference between coming off as a Boys Club or coming off as a glimpse of eternity.

Hi, I'm Steve, and I don't like...

When I started dating my wife, I asked questions like, "What sort of things do you like to do?" or "What makes you tick?" or "What is the thing you're most passionate about." Usually when you want to know about someone or something, those are the kinds of questions you ask. It works best when you don't even have to ask, but you can get to know someone just by watching them interact with others or by listening to them speak.

I think people who are outside of the church are asking the same kinds of questions. Whether they know it or not, they want to know this person, Jesus. They want to know what He is about. They want to know what He does, thinks, and is motivated by. The incredible thing is that God has placed countless people here on the earth to be His voice and His ambassadors. This amazing fact is, quite candidly, the thing that scares me the most.

This is part two of a series of posts responding to Dan Kimball's book, They Like Jesus, But Not the Church. The next grand perception that Dan Kimball says non-believers have about the church today is that it is judgmental and negative.

So, as people check out the church in today's culture... what are the answers we give them to the questions they are looking for? More often than not, when they actually take the step of attending a church or befriending a believer, they are not shown what Christ/the church is actually about. The great message being communicated is what Christ/the church is not about--and even then, the picture painted is a distorted one. Go ahead... ask a non attender what the church is about. They probably would tell you the obvious answers: God, religion, being good. They might even tell you it is about power or money or control. Ask them what the church is not about... what Christians are negative about... you'll probably get a much more lengthy answer.

If any group of people have something positive to be known for, it is those who are followers of the origin of hope for mankind. We have the greatest message of hope to carry to the world--it is even our greatest task assigned to us. I have to ask, however, are people turning to the church when they are need of hope? In many respects, the believers of the world are known as some of the most negative, griping, complaining people. I even found myself recognizing this sad fact years before I entered into ministry.

While attending Chicago Musical College in my pre-ministry days, I did what the typical performer/actor did to make ends meet--I worked as a waiter. I loved it. People could tell. I worked at TGI Fridays in Oak Park, IL. I was at TGIF in the days of flair on the suspenders, and let me tell you, I was flair-ful. You could even say I was the flair king. I was all about it. It was there that I met some of the most fun, encouraging non-christians that I have ever come to know. We all worked as a team, laughing and encouraging each other... and they all knew about my faith. Once a month or so, I would have to work on Sunday. While I missed driving out to Barrington to attend Willow Creek on those weeks, it wasn't the lack of church or the abundance of work that made me depressed to work on Sundays. Simply put, it was the groups of people I would have to serve who had just come from church. The other servers would pawn off all the church tables on me... since they were 'my kind of people.' In an effort to cheer up their forlorn spirits, I would always make it a point to let them know that I, too, was a churchgoer. This was usually followed by their veiled attempt at laying guilt on me for working on the "Lord's Day." Following the guilt trip, these people would eat. And MAN, could they eat! They'd ring up some of the biggest bills of the week, and while normally this would please a waiter (big bills=big tips), Sundays were an exception. You were 'blessed' if they gave you 10%--although it was always accompanied by a tract. Woo-hoo.

You might say that it is a coincidence. You might say that they were being good stewards of their money (bogus...). Regardless of what you might think... shouldn't we be the message of Christ everywhere we go? While the message they wanted to communicate was the sinfulness of working on Sunday, the more accurate, more important message was left unsaid. Worse yet, what was said through their actions hindered the message of the Gospel going forth. As Dan says on page 101, "We would present the message to others better if we were demonstrations of the love of Jesus."

Many in the church are of the opinion that if we don't call people on their sin--if we don't point out the ways they fall short--then they will never see the truth. I would encourage those same people to look into the Word of God. Look at the way that Jesus interacted with the unreligious and unbelieving. Not only did Jesus not judge or condemn them (John 3:17), he did the exact opposite. He showed them their worth. He showed His love for them. He went out of His way to move toward them.

God sent us the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts of people and show them the ways that they settle for less than God's best. It's best left to Him. While churches are out there screaming about the evils of alcohol, tattoos, piercings, hard rock, dancing, television and such (all of which are not inherently wrong or evil y any biblical standard), how many churches are out there sharing the truth of the love of God? I know that many, many are. I also know that many, many are not. Those churches are, quite simply, not doing what the church is called to do. In fact, I would go as far to say that they may actually be counter-productive to the Gospel--effectively stopping people that God loves from hearing and responding to Jesus.

It isn't just about the things we say in or out of church, either. It's about the things we don't say as well. What is accepted in your church? What is not? Who is not? What do your policies, dress codes, customs or traditions say about the heart of your church?

Do me a favor? If, by some chance, you're scheduled to go on television tonight and talk about how the church is against teletubbies, homosexuals, drinking, the internet, MTV, insert cultural trend here--please help us out--cancel. You don't speak for all of us.

Organized Religion? Political Agenda?

First off, thanks to all of you who have sent me feedback on the last post and especially those, including Dan Kimball, who posted a comment. It is obvious to me that these topics are ones that must be addressed by the church--and more importantly, the Church.

As I said in the last post, Dan Kimball's book, They Like Jesus but Not the Church has triggered a ton of thoughts in my head. This is part one of a set of posts in response.

The first grand perception that Dan Kimball says non believers have about the church today is that it is an organized religion with a political agenda.

I have to admit, I am a pastor (albeit a young one) and many times I find even myself inadvertently confusing what Christ meant by the word Church. It isn't that I don't know the answer or that I have never understood what he meant, but the church has helped to create a
self-defeating lie of perception that the buildings, the organizations, the campuses and the styles are the church. As a result, we have exchanged method for the mission, advertising our "excellent, unique" brand of corporate successes as the real main event. Of course, I am generalizing, but to be honest, the Church has become quite general.

Because of this simple (yet so many times unrealized) statement we have made to an unbelieving world, many people have seen the church as nothing more than an organization looking to increase its numbers and political power. This perception has resulted in three prevailing reasons that the world sees the church as an organized religion (as stated by Dan in his book):

- I can relate to God without all of the unnatural structure the organized church would impose on me
- The church is about hierarchy, power, and control with a political agenda, and
- The church is made of leaders who function like CEOs and desire power and control

I recount these three statements from Dan's book because I truly feel they are accurate. I would even go as far to state that they are not just perceptions outside of the church today, but inside it as well. How many churches do you know or know of that are engaged in some sort of power struggle? How many churches operate under some sort of dictatorship? How many structures that we have in our churches have become "sacred cows" not because of their biblical dependency, but because of their loyal followers who are happy as long as things don't change? Even people inside the church today see these things. And if we can see these things, how many people on the outside take notice? My guess is that many do--only we wouldn't hear about it because they don't set foot in our churches.

As for a political agenda, it doesn't take a whole lot of investigation to see where this idea comes from. In fact, just this week I came across one of these "Christian voter guides" in the blogosphere. *grunt* Those things irk me. I'll tell you why. Personally, I don't like to publicize my political leanings, however, for the sake of background, I'll tell you I'm a fiscal and social conservative. There was a time when I was a rabid-republican, however, I have come to realize that, for the most part, no party has it right. I do like to know where candidates stand on issues. Only problem is, these 'guides' are no more than a right-wing attempt to focus on issues that have been classified as "Christian" topics, only to leave out topics that Christ Himself would consider extremely important. This latest guide I found didn't even include any of the Democratic candidates at all--as far as this group was concerned, it wasn't even worth a read. With a Presidential election right around the corner, we'll soon get the obligatory "if you're a Christian, you'll vote for (insert candidate here)." You may even hear the all-powerful "If Jesus were here today, He would cast his ballot in favor of (insert candidate here)."

Please make no mistake--I do believe the world delights in making us look like a political puppet. The news channels will cover it, the papers will put it on the front page, the magazines will make it a feature, and the bloggers will eat it up. And to be honest, wouldn't you? The problem is, when one prominent voice in the church says something, to someone outside of the establishment, the entire Church says something. Yes, you and I become rabid republicans or democrats, throwing the name of Christ around for political gain--purely because some ambitious, greedy, manipulative candidate (with the ok of some pastor somewhere, I might add) gets up in a pulpit and claims each pew-sitter as his (or her) own. Guilty by association.

A little history lesson: back in 1802, Thomas Jefferson wrote this letter to the Danbury Baptist Association:

Gentlemen

The affectionate sentiments of esteem and approbation which you are so good as to express towards me, on behalf of the Danbury Baptist association, give me the highest satisfaction. my duties dictate a faithful and zealous pursuit of the interests of my constituents, & in proportion as they are persuaded of my fidelity to those duties, the discharge of them becomes more and more pleasing.

Believing with you that religion is a matter which lies solely between Man & his God, that he owes account to none other for his faith or his worship, that the legitimate powers of government reach actions only, & not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should "make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof," thus building a wall of separation between Church & State. Adhering to this expression of the supreme will of the nation in behalf of the rights of conscience, I shall see with sincere satisfaction the progress of those sentiments which tend to restore to man all his natural rights, convinced he has no natural right in opposition to his social duties.

I reciprocate your kind prayers for the protection & blessing of the common father and creator of man, and tender you for yourselves & your religious association, assurances of my high respect & esteem.

Th Jefferson
Jan. 1. 1802.

Translation: the government will leave you alone and will not inject its own preferences on your worship. You can worship God without fear of politicians coming in and trying to manipulate you or influence your freedoms as Americans.

Fast forward to today. We have spent years trying to, in our own way, reverse the great blessing of that declaration 105 years ago. We bring in politicians to garner support. Whole denominations endorse candidates. Church leaders call for a uniform vote from their churchgoers. As we break down the barriers of Church & State, we are not gaining a victory. We are actually taking away the very thing that provides us with the great freedom we have to worship--and we're keeping many, many people away from experiencing that freedom, because they believe we are on a mission... and that it is more about us than it is about Jesus.

As I sit here right now, I am hearing excerpts from a CNN documentary series beginning tonight called "God's Warriors." On Thursday night, the focus will be on the church and how it is attempting to influence the politics of our nation. I don't normally say this about such shows, but if you get a chance, watch it. It starts at 9. In fact, I'd challenge you to watch it with someone who does not attend church--then ask them what they thought. You may be surprised to hear what they say. Sure, the media capitalizes on the opportunity to put down the followers of Jesus, but we sure do make it easy for them.

The question remains: do we ever address political issues in our gatherings? I say absolutely! I don't think we should live in fear of any topic. However, it should not be the focus of a month long series, an isogetical sermon, or a tirade about the evildoers who hold different political beliefs than you do.

Just this past weekend I had a conversation with someone who had just attended a church service for the first time in a long time. This young lady was SO excited to go that morning. I asked her how church was, and she told me she was extremely disappointed. When I asked why, she proceeded to tell me that the entire message dealt with a political hot topic that seemed like a soap box rather than an authentic look at the living Word of God. Now, this is just one person's interpretation of what happened, but I'm sure that it wasn't completely isolated.

When we run into people on the street... when we (sometimes amazingly) see them in the seats at service... when we have an opportunity to engage someone about the truths of Scripture...

Do we show them Jesus?
Do we have the same agenda as our Father in Heaven?
or are we trying to win them to our organization? our political party line? our candidate?

People have this inherent ability to see right through to our motivations. They may not be able to put their finger on it, but sometimes things just "don't seem right."

I'm praying right now that I remember what the church is--what the church was meant to do... and that my agenda is to share nothing more than "Christ and Him crucified"... even if they sit on the opposite side of the aisle.

Boy, Did I Need a Vacation!

Hey everyone! Let me start by saying I am amazed that people even read this thing. Somehow it is the most viewed page on the Chapel website (if you haven't been there, it is www.jacksonvillechapel.org)! That's just nuts. Maybe Dave and Warren will actually start writing in their blogs. Nope... probably not.

It has been, as usual, a ridiculous couple of weeks. Just when you think things are pretty crazy, you are reminded of how moronic your tendencies actually are.

Case in point: I ran over my laptop with my car.
yeah. no kidding. it is the stuff of legend. Needless to say, I needed a vacation. Lucky for me, I got one.

I have been down at the Jersey shore for a the past 5 days spending time in the sun, watching my one year old son get a better tan than his father. He kicks some major butt, by the way. He's crazy cool--way cooler than I ever was, even when I had much better hair.

Anyway, being down here has given me some great down time (even if I am working on side video projects until 3am). I have eaten way too much junk food, watched some good comedy (you MUST see John Pinette's new DVD, "I'm Starvin'"...pretty much wet myself), and have gotten the chance to do something I LOVE to do when I get a moment to--read.

I finished up Blue Like Jazz while I was down here. Again... read this book. (please see aforementioned caution--I don't need any emails about it :) When I finished it, I turned to another book that has been in my stack, They Like Jesus, but not the Church by Dan Kimball.

First of all, Dan is from Jersey--Paramus to be exact--so he already is on my good side (note: if you told me I'd be sticking up for Jersey 5 years ago I would have laughed at you).

The book is all about the perception of the church in a post (or even pre)-Christian culture, meaning that we're no longer in a culture in which we can take a Judeo-Christian mind/value set for granted. Many would argue this is false. I would guarantee the arguers are over 30 years old.

Through his research all over the country (he is a pastor, but travels frequently to speak... I just saw him in Chicago a few months ago), he has found that emerging generations (those in the 18-30 age group that are unfortunately missing from most of our churches) perceive that the church:
- is an organized religion with a political agenda
- is judgmental and negative
- is dominated by males and oppresses females
- is homophobic
- arrogantly claims all other religions are wrong
- is full of fundamentalists who take the whole Bible literally
I can hear some of you saying "Amen" as you read the last two. I'd ask you to pay close attention to the words "arrogantly" and "whole" before you start writing me a rebuttal already.

While the book is an awesome read for any church leaders (he has another similar book for those who aren't pastors/ministry leaders), it has gotten me thinking about what I believe about the perception of the Church and my church in particular.

Over the next six posts, I'll comment on each of these perceptions. Hopefully, with Dan's forgiveness (please read his blog at dankimball.com), I'll mention some of his thoughts on these things that prompted my responses and I'd like to encourage any of you to drop a comment on my blog, too, so I can hear some of your thoughts.

To be truthful, much of me believes that these issues and perceptions will have a lot to do with whether or not the church reaches future generations or dies an aged death sticking to its guns. While many of the church's "guns" (I hate war metaphor) are good ones, others need to be melted. I hope and pray this future discussion will help us all to examine our hearts in order to be used to reach the hearts of those God loves.

Just a few updates...

Hi all... it has been a little while, but in my blogging absence, I have not been a sloth. I promise... here are a few updates.

- yes, I cut my hair... don't worry, long hair lovers, it isn't THAT short!

- Melissa and I have placed our house on the market. We don't have anywhere to go, we just know that we have to move. The place is way too small and our 5/1 ARM is up next year. If you know of anyone looking for a cheap house to get into the market, let me know. Likewise, if you know of any nice, cheap 3 bedroom homes, let me know! Either way, we desperately need your prayers.

- One of Melissa's close friends growing up passed away while giving birth. She was 26 years old. The baby is fine, but her husband (Cameron) and her family really need our prayers. Please lift them up when you get the chance. Her name was Pam. She loved the Lord passionately, and is now able to tell Him face to face.

- I've been taking a lot more time to get away from the craziness and read when I get the chance. Right now, I'm finishing up "Blue Like Jazz" by Donald Miller. It is a great book documenting the process of coming to faith in Christ. This guy is a great author and a great speaker. I heard him this year at Willow Creek and loved every second. NOTE: I would suggest the book... but you need a clear perspective. This book is not a theological treatise. Nor is it a Christian living book. It has, however, greatly influenced the way I view the body of Christ and our role as believers. Let me tell you... if you read it, prepare to get kicked in the teeth by the truth it contains. I pray I can really love people the way Christ does.

- I could use some prayer. I've been kind of crazily running around working on Chapel things as well as side projects and am feeling a bit overwhelmed. Please pray that God provides rest and that when He does I take Him up on it.

Until next time...

My, how things change!

I was doing a little research today and ran across some great quotes that reminded me of how important it is to stay locked into the Word when "doing church."

What happens when preference and non-biblical issues are given ground to stand in our churches?
This happens:

“The organ in the worship service is a sign of Baal.” - Martin Luther

“I have no objection to instruments of music in our chapels, provided they are neither heard nor seen.” - John Wesley

“We might as well pray by machinery as sing by it”
“Israel was at school, and used childish things to help her learn; but in these days when Jesus gives us spiritual food, one can make melody without strings and pipes… we do not need them. That would hinder rather than help our praise. Sing unto Him. This is the sweetest and best music. No instrument like the human voice.” - Both quotes by Charles Spurgeon

In a world where we understand that all we do in our lives should be worship, including our work and our play... we should learn from the mistakes made my our forefathers--don't allow your preference to become a window for self-righteous spirituality. What makes your song a pleasing one to the Lord is the heart behind it. I pray our generation gets it right.

It's been a while...

Hey everyone. I know it has been a while since I have written, but things have been absolutely nuts! I wanted to take a minute to catch you all up on some things.

First, the end of April we took a trip to deep in the heart of Texas--home of Texas wieners, the live music capital of the world (Austin), my two favorite worship leaders (Tomlin and Crowder), and much of my family.

It had been over a decade since I last saw my Dad and i think about 16-17 years since I last saw my Grandparents and Aunts and Uncles down there. I won't go into detail, but reconciliation is an awesome thing. Honestly, I think it is one of the most powerful ways that God shows Himself in this day and age. While we naturally gravitate toward 'being right' and pride, God breaks down those walls and bridges the gap that we cannot on our own... in fact, reconciliation is the very heart of the message of Christ--bringing a sinful people to be reconciled with a Holy God. Amazing stuff.

While we down there, I HAD to take a quick trip up to go to church in Waco (not David Koresh church... David Crowder church). Crowder is the worship Pastor at University Baptist Church in Waco and is also one of the best leaders/writers out there today. Head to Emergence on pretty much any Sunday and you'll hear something influenced or written by Crowder. The service was awesome, and afterwards, David and other members of the band stuck around and we got to chat with them for quite a while. Even Landon enjoyed the meeting, prompting David to make a comment of how 'intrigued' Landon looked at the sight of him. If you've never heard of or seen Crowder, he's coming with Phil Wickham (another awesome leader) to the Hammerstein Ballroom in NYC in November... go check him out!


Got food poisoning two weeks ago... debuted an original at Emergence last week... am at the shore now to watch my brother in law's baseball team go for the state title... heading to Chicago next week.

there ya go! you're all caught up...

Be blessed.

Who would you like to meet?

I have always looked forward to heaven. In addition to the presence of God, the beauty of it all, the awesome worship music (I suspect it is similar to Tomlin and Crowder... except even better!), and the lack of pain or sadness, one of the things I have looked forward to the most is seeing many people I love and even meeting people that I have respected and admired.

On that list lies some of the Christian faith's biggest names: Paul, Peter, Josiah, Gideon, Noah and so many others. Tonight I added another name to my list: Jenna Staup.

Jenna was a young girl who was tragically killed in a car accident in Florida one year ago today. I had the privilege of leading worship tonight at her one-year-after memorial service. It is always a difficult place to be in. You need to lead, but you also need to truly grasp the words you're singing... which many times requires a supernatural way of keeping the tears from falling. In case you've ever wondered, it's not so good to sing and cry. It becomes even tougher sometimes when you didn't know the person that you're leading the service for.

I never got to meet Jenna. For that, I'm truly sorry. I have heard many things about her. I have spent some time talking to her parents. I have seen photo after photo of her bright smile. She seems like the kind of person you love to be around. I admire her... her faith... her legacy. For all of those reasons, I have added her to the list.

Isn't it pretty awesome that we can look forward to things like seeing people in heaven? God is amazing! I'll see ya in heaven, Jenna. If you heard the whole thing tonight, I hope it made you smile.

A Simple Answer to a Common Question

As evidenced by my 'shuffle up' post, I get a lot of folks asking me for names of bands they might like, etc.

Through my internet travels, I have come across a GREAT tool to answer that question WAY better than I can. Head on over to www.pandora.com to check it out! It is FREE... right in my price range.

Words much wiser than mine

I stumbled across a post on John Piper's log today (Yes, Dave... John Piper does have a blog. It has more posts than yours, too :) that really made me think and pray for a while. I wanted to share... hope it blesses all of you.

The main points are things his father wrote down before he died. The comments following each are Pastor Piper's.

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Things I Have Learned

1. The right road always leads to the right place; therefore, get on the right road and go as far as you can on it.

My father was totally persuaded that wrong means do not lead to right ends. Or, more positively, he was persuaded that living in the right way—that is, doing the right things—are means that inevitably lead to where God wants us to be. This is why he told me, when I asked about God’s leading in my life, “Son, keep the room clean where you are, and in God’s time, the door to the next room will open.”

2. There is only one thing to do about anything; that is the right thing. Do right.

This is what one might say to a person perplexed by a difficult situation whose outcome is unknown. The person might say, “I just don’t know what to do about this.” It is not useless to be told: Do the right thing. That may not tell you exactly which good thing to do, but it does clear the air and rule out a few dozen bad ideas.

3. Happiness is not found by looking for it. You stumble over happiness on the road to duty.

My, my, my. How was John Piper born from this? I would never say this. The main reason is that the Bible commands us to pursue our joy repeatedly. “Rejoice in the Lord, and again I say rejoice.” “Delight yourself in the Lord.” I think what he meant was: 1) Joy is always in something. Joy itself is not the something. So we seek joy in Christ. Not just joy in general. 2) When duty is hard and we do not feel joy in doing it, we should still do it, and pray that in the doing it the joy would be given. But what we need to make plain is that duty cannot be contrasted with joy, because joy is a biblical duty.

4. The door to success swings on the hinges of opposition.

Remarkably, this saying implies that opposition is not just a natural accompaniment or antecedent of success, but that it is a means by which the door opens. One can think of many biblical examples. The opposition of Joseph’s brothers opened the door to his leadership in Egypt. The taxing of the empire opened the door to getting the Messiah born in Bethlehem, not Nazareth, and thus fulfilling prophecy. The betrayal of Judas opened the door to the salvation of the world.

5. God in the right place in my life fixes every other relationship of life (Matthew 6:33).

I wonder if this was tucked away in my mind so that unknown to me it controlled my analogy of the solar system to our many-faceted lives. If God is the blazing center of the solar system of our lives, then all the planets will be held in their proper orbit. But if not, everything goes awry.

6. It is never right to get the right thing in the wrong way—like good grades, wealth, power, position. Don’t sacrifice your principles.

Again, he hammers away at don’t use bad means for good ends. Be a principled, not a pragmatic, person. O how we need to hear this today. Churches need to be principled, not endlessly adapting to culture. Persons need to make a promise and keep it no matter how much it hurts.

7. It is a sin to do less than your best. It is wrong to do [merely] well.

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might” (Ecclesiastes 9:10 ). But be careful. Sometimes the “best” is a B+ sermon and spending time with your child. In other words, “best” always involves more decisions than the one you are making at the moment. That one means many other things are being left undone. So “best” is always the whole thing, not just the detail of the moment.

8. It is wrong to be yoked to one who refuses the yoke of Christ.

Don’t marry an unbeliever (1 Corinthians 7:39). Not all relationships with unbelievers are ruled out. Otherwise we could not obey Jesus’ command to love them and bless them. But “yoke” implies a connectedness that either governs where we go or constrains where they go. And you cannot constrain faith in Jesus. It is free.

9. The part of your character that is deficient is the part that needs attention.

This is the counterpoint to the advice: Go with your strengths. There is truth in both. Yes, be encouraged by every evidence of God’s grace in your life, and use your gifts and graces for his glory. But you will become smug and vain if you do not keep your deficiencies before you and work on them.

10. Don’t quit. Finish the job. God can’t use a quitter.

Warning: “He who endures to the end will be saved” (Mark 13:13). Promise: “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6).

11. Anything you do that hinders your progress for God is wrong.

O how thankful I am that this was the dominant way my father pressed me to pursue my sanctification. He did not mainly impose lists of don’ts on me, though we had them. And they were clear. Mainly he said: Maximize your progress in knowing and serving God. That ruled out a hundred foolish behaviors, some bad and some uselessly innocent.

12. Beware of any society in which you feel compelled to put a bushel over your testimony.

This implies that you can go into a group of people who are evil if you are willing to open your mouth and take a stand for Jesus and righteousness. Nevertheless, 1 Corinthians 15:33 stands: “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals.’”

13. It isn’t enough to be good. Be good for something. The essence of Christianity is not a passionless purity.

This is what I have meant in talking about a merely avoidance ethic. Don’t just think of righteousness or holiness in terms of what you avoid, but what you do. As my father said in another place: Don’t be a don’ter; be a doer.

14. Positive living produces negative effect[s].

This is wise counsel that affirmation of the good always implies negation of the bad. If you think you can live your life without negating anything, you have lost touch with reality. “Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good” (Romans 12:9). You cannot love without hating what hurts the beloved.

15. Learn to be sweetly firm.

This was what he said to my mother over the phone when she was exasperated with her one disobedient son: Be sweet and firm. I think she succeeded.

With abiding and deep thankfulness for my father’s wisdom,

Pastor John

Awake yet?

Ok... I don't normally post videos from youtube... BUT... this is the absolute BEST video I have ever seen. It just so happens to be Switchfoot's new video for their single 'Awakening'. If you're a fan of Guitar Hero or DDR, you will be especially amused. If you don't know what those things are, take a look and listen anyhow... it is just plain good music with a great message.

CLICK HERE FOR THE VIDEO

While you're at it, take a listen to a live recording of the song from Emergence. We're big Switchfoot fans over there.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECORDING

Now, if only I had Guitar Hero for 360.

Just when you think...

I know it has been a little while since I posted. I didn't plan it that way, but you know what they say about the best laid plans...

Turns out that I would hit a little speed bump on the road of excitement last weekend. I had just finished up loading the media for our big Palm Sunday weekend services and got a bad case of chest pain that wouldn't quit. Like a moron, I drove myself to the hospital (I'm told that's not a good idea) and went into the ER. They put me in the same room my little guy was in when he was 3 weeks old before his surgery. kinda weird... After running a bunch of tests and such for 6 1/2 hours in the ER, they admitted me for the night and I got a nice cozy bed on the 5th floor of Chilton hospital. Thankfully, it turns out no damage was done to my heart, but it did slow me down quite a bit and I'm still not feeling 100%. Thanks to all who were/are praying... I'm confident God has a reason for all of this! In the meantime, I'm trying to remember what it means to 'take it easy.' Man, is that tough!

In much happier news, I was privileged to lead a band at the Good Friday Men's Breakfast in Whippany. The guest speaker was Coach Greg Schiano from the Rutgers football team. This guy was awesome. If you missed it, kick yourself... not hard... just hard enough to know you screwed up on this one :)

HAPPY EASTER!

Pet Peeve #1

We all have our 'things' that get us going. I have a number of pet peeves that consistently irk me. Every once in a while I'll confess these things to you in hopes that: 1 - I'll learn to get over them, and 2 - you can stop me when I overreact to them :)

The first thing that comes to mind is the trend of sending around emails with all kinds of far-fetched scenarios, fear-based slander and scare-inducing stories. For instance, I always get these emails about how Starbucks doesn't support our troops, how gang members are killing people who flash their headlights at them, or how Pepsi is trying to take "Under God" out of the Pledge of Allegiance. I'm certain that if you have an email address and concerned friends you get these as well as many others that are shocking and somewhat unbelievable.

Let me start by saying that 99% of these things you get via email are completely false. I think it bugs me so much because there's enough fear in the world and enough false stories out there to go around without me adding to them. As believers, we are supposed to be bearers of truth and exposers of lies. With that in mind, I present to you an amazing tool to stop the false junk that floats around inboxes worldwide. It is a site I love to frequent: www.snopes.com. With a few clicks, most of these things can be taken care of and you can start putting an end to the junk out there.

With information so close to our fingertips, it amazes me that there are people out there who still doubt the claims of Christ and the truth of God. Billions of people can communicate instantly and share any information they like. With this amazing capacity to share and expose hoaxes, it would take literally seconds to share proof of contradiction to the Word. Yet, with people spending their entire lives and existence trying to disprove Christianity, not once has it ever been done. The best they can come up with is a tomb discovered and disregarded 27 years ago as the burial tomb of Christ. Sure, these conspiracy theories will come and go, but truth stands firm. Hard to understand how there are still people priding themselves on their atheism or agnosticism.

Much like your email inbox, human minds are easily filled with lies and misinformation.

Shuffle Up #1

I get asked all the time for names of songs or bands that I like listening to. If you're confined only to Christian Radio here in NY area, you're missing out on a lot of stuff...

so, I've decided that occasionally I will put my ipod on shuffle and drop the top 20 songs on here for your perusal. maybe you'll get some good leads from it... maybe you'll just laugh at my preferences. either way, it's a fun experiment.

1. Voice of Truth - Casting Crowns
2. Find Me in the River - Delirious?
3. Carry You to Jesus - Steven Curtis Chapman
4. Power of Your Love - Lincoln Brewster
5. All that I Am - The Afters
6. Open the Eyes of My Heart - Praise Band
7. Naive - Chris Rice
8. Inside Outside - Delirious?
9. Be the Centre - Brian Doerksen
10. Glory in the Highest - Chris Tomlin
11. Tonight - Jeremy Camp
12. Grace Like Rain - Emergence Band
13. Feels Like - Jeremy Camp
14. Reach - Warren Barfield
15. Let it Rain - Michael W. Smith
16. Carry Your Love - Caedmon's Call
17. Big Enough - Chris Rice
18. Incomplete - Switchfoot
19. Today - Crossbound (one of my old bands)
20. Raise Up the Crown - Passion

There ya have it. I'd love to see what is in your playlists. Just a reminder: this blog thing does allow comments on each post. Use it!

Have a great day!

Thrill Ride of Life

This past week was one of those weeks of ministry that are not easily forgotten.

It all started last Saturday with a birthday celebration for our long-time Chapel treasurer, Ed Frye. He turned 75. It was a great time of fun and friends, and a great time to rejoice over what God has done in his life and his work for so many years. Praise God for him!

The following day I went to go visit someone very close to my heart. James Griffin is a young man who has been best friends with my brother-in-law, Brian, for years. I've had the privilege of seeing him grow up over the past 5+ years...what a class act. The day after we all had dinner together for Brian's birthday a few months ago, he was on his way to work from William Paterson University and was involved in a very serious car accident. He was actually pronounced DOA by the first people to arrive, but it turns out he survived. His back was broken in two spots, his neck broken, he had massive head injuries, a torn diaphragm, and bleeding in the brain. Through a lot of prayer, we have seen him go from coma to thumb wrestling with me. He has a long way to go, but praise be to God!

Last Sunday was also our annual meeting--all told, it was one of the best in Chapel history and certainly the best one I have ever been to. What a spirit of unity! I tell ya, if you weren't there, you missed a great one! Praise God! If you're not a member, you can still come, but if you aren't a member, the bigger question is 'why not?' I won't go further on this topic, because it isn't the focus of this post, but check this post out from a blog I check out from time to time. Good points there. (In other news, there's a membership class starting the first week of April... how convenient!?!?!)

Tuesday I had an early start and went in for a cardiac MRI and kidney ultrasound. I mentioned my past heart problems in an earlier post and this was a test to check and see what damage was done. I don't mind medical tests, but this one was more than I bargained for. To make a long story short, it was a rough morning, but it is so great to be going to a doc who is doing the work to find out all he can. Praise God!

Thursday evening I had the privilege of leading worship at one of the best memorial services I have been to. Bob Krenitski was 50 years old when he died of heart failure while driving with his wife, Dinah, to the hospital. I won't go into major detail, but this has been an excruciating time for the Krenitski family. Bob and Dinah have two very gifted children in college, and the loss was evident in all of the 500+ faces in attendance at the memorial service Thursday night. I wish I knew Bob before all of this, but one thing I do know about him--he was an amazing man of God. I say this not only because of the testimony others gave about him, but because of the way his family has handled this entire situation. He led his family well... he loved his family well... and he left a legacy that I can only hope I can come close to leaving with my small life here on the earth. It was a spectacularly peaceful night. The Holy Spirit was so obviously being the "Comforter" that Christ promised He would send in John 14. I praise God for His comfort and for the life of Bob Krenitski.

Services were great this weekend, with Baptisms spread throughout. Tonight, 34 people were baptized in response to the Nxt-Gen Winter Retreat. That makes nearly 40 people baptized this week.! PRAISE GOD!

Amazing how in both the ups and downs of this roller coaster life we can find so many reasons to praise God.

I made a little comment to Dave last night on the platform that it is so odd to have such a week of new life and death and how diametrically opposed they are. I caught myself quickly and realized how wrong I was.

Ed's life is bearing fruit...
James has been given a second chance at life...
God has spared me so many times...
Bob is experiencing the eternal life he always dreamed of...
Nearly 40 people testified today of the new life they have in Christ...

No opposition here--God is at work. Just open your eyes and catch a glimpse of His glory.

A fun little trip...

I know it has been a little while since I have posted. Things have been nuts! I can't help but get pumped over the fact that God is doing so much around here. Day after day I have the privilege of hearing story after story of lives that are changed because of the power of God. I really believe that, for some reason, God has chosen this time to work specifically in this place to accomplish something big for His glory.

Since the last time I wrote, only 10 short days ago, I have been able to experience some amazing things. Last Sunday, for instance, I got to worship alongside thousands of other people at Continental Airlines Arena while being led by Chris Tomlin and Matt Redman. If that wasn't enough, one of my favorite speakers EVER, Louie Giglio, was there sharing the Word. What I love about him is that he always reminds me of just how huge our God is. Next time you're around me and you have a second to soak up some passion, just ask me to share about his message that night. It is still ringing in my heart a week later.

Yesterday was another awesome experience. One of the bands from Emergence and I took a trip to Eastern Christian High School in North Haledon, NJ. I was asked by a great friend, (the best man at my wedding) Adam Culp, to speak at their Chapel service and I was so pumped to bring along some of my fellow leaders from Emergence. It was a great experience, as it usually is. I love speaking to and worshiping with young people. Something about their passion and drive to change the world and the faith to believe that the world actually can be changed gets me pumped. The bite of jaded age hasn't yet reached them, and it is an awesome thing to be around. I'm (not so secretly) hoping we can join them on their retreat this fall and worship with them for a few days on end.

This weekend is the big Annual Meeting. While many people let out a groan at those words, I actually do love it. It is a time to celebrate and to be reconnected for another year. I also love getting together with those who are totally committed to God's work here--committed enough to show up! It should prove to be a great time--and these next years should prove to be big ones in the history of God's work up here on the hill.

Hope you're all having as great a week as I am!

One of these things is not like the others...

It is amazing to me how many people die every day. I mean, obviously, there are many people who are born every day, and therefore many will also pass, but I was just browsing through some obituaries today and found these:

A professor at the University of California at San Diego who was one of the world's leading investigators of new therapies for Alzheimer's disease, died in a plane crash near Borrego Springs, Calif. He was 62.

A former conductor and first violin player in the Boston Pops, and the managing director of the Boston Symphony Orchestra died in Boston. He was 82. Through the years, he donated more than $13 million to the orchestra and millions more to other arts endeavors in Boston and in Palm Beach, Fla., where he had become a resident in recent years.

The oldest living man in the U.S. and the world's oldest WWI veteran died just a few weeks shy of his 111th birthday.

Former Playboy Playmate of the Year who has struggled with years of substance abuse and personal plagues died of yet unknown causes in a Hollywood, Florida hotel room hours after witnesses saw her drinking profusely to the point of not being able to stand or walk on her own. She was 39.


Let me start by saying that I don't think Anna Nicole Smith's (or Vickie Lynn Marshall as her parents named her) life is worth any less than these other people I listed or even my own. I believe she was made in the image of God, just like all of us. What perplexes me is that as I sit here with the television on, I am still hearing reports about her death, days after the actual event. I didn't hear one word about the scientist, the conductor, or even the world's oldest WWI veteran. I had to search for news of those, and even then it wasn't easy. I'm so confused about this thing we call celebrity, and why so many people are fascinated by it.

I do realize we're in a world of 24 hour news. When it isn't the war we see, it is personal wars. When we're not seeing bombs going off, we're seeing Hollywood elite getting bombed. When we're not hearing how high the casualty count was for the day, we're hearing how high the actors, musicians and playboy pinups can get on whatever substances they choose. And as if we don't have enough issues with personal relationships in our society, we need to hear the ins and outs of every relationship the 'stars' have.

I think all of this reminds me that the people that God has placed around us are so precious. How many of those that we come in contact each day feel like they aren't even worth talking to? How many people feel like there's nothing left to live for? While I'm seeing headlines of people I will never, nor ever care to meet, there are people I pray for, worship with and live next to hurting and dying on the inside--sometimes even on the outside.

I have a new goal each day--make someone feel like a celebrity: to let someone know they're worth the attention and the time--not because they are a scientist, a conductor, or a centerfold, but because they are made by the Master. Every obituary carries more than just a story. It carries a lifetime of stories. I'm just not convinced we spend our time focusing on the right ones.

Do you have an exit strategy?

All this talk about war, leaders, and politics is really starting to make sense to me. I'm not here to write about whether or not we should have gone to Iraq. I have strong beliefs that the church should stay out of positions on politics (not to say I don't have my own views, I just wouldn't talk about them from the platform on Sunday). I just think that a lot of who we are as a culture is reflected in our attitudes toward marriage, dating, and even war.

For instance, we all know that the war in Iraq is not going very well. Even the president has admitted that it is a real struggle. I just find it interesting that there are so many people calling for immediate withdrawal now. It isn't isolated to our problems in the middle east, either.

Let me put it this way: when I was in high school, it was very common for some to date someone until you had enough of them and leave them. One moment you were madly in love, the next you hated the person and never wanted to see them again. There really weren't any lasting repercussions when you took off. You got bored, tired, or just plain moody and it was over. If you didn't like the way it was going, you got out. No biggie.

Fast forward to adulthood. Our society is full of people who fall for someone, get married, get tired, bored, or just plain fed up and they move on. In fact, it is common nowadays (especially in NJ and other well-to-do areas) to go into a marriage with an exit strategy, a.k.a. a pre-nup. When you steamroll into town quickly, take over the center of someone and things go easily, you're thrilled to be in the thick of it. One day, the emotional insurgency starts--possibly even a civil war of emotions rages--and you find yourself wondering how you can get out as quickly as possible...maybe it was all a big mistake... maybe you should have never entered into the engagement. Now you're stuck in a mess, but you always have that option to take off and leave... just like high school... those were the days.

Man, am I glad God doesn't work like that. From the beginning of time, God wasn't trying to figure out a way to get out of his relationship with those He created. He was trying to find every way into a relationship. He was SO intent on sticking with us and never forsaking us that He even came here in the flesh and gave up His heavenly rights so that we might come to know Him... intimately... for eternity. Now THAT is commitment.

"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" Hebrews 13:5b-8

Which brings me to my point: don't allow this world to sway you into viewing your relationships--your marriages--the way we view military conflict. God never intended marriage to have an exit strategy. He intended it to be an amazing, rewarding bond. He didn't say it would be easy though. Sometimes our sin nature surges forward and threatens to rip our families into all-out faction civil war. It is those times that we need to remember why we got in there in the first place--and to remember who our Leader is: a steadfast, ever-loving example of what commitment and sacrificial love really is.

We are a bunch of idiots....

I don't know if any of you got the chance to view the docubias that was "Friends of God" on HBO this past week. I got a chance to view it after my folks Tivoed it. It was filmed, commentated and produced by Alexandra Pelosi (she's the daughter of House Speaker, Nancy). I really didn't expect a true portrayal of what believers are like--and it is a good thing I didn't expect much at all.This thing was ripe with biased embarrassment and ranged from ridiculous to ridiculouser.

It was anything but boring, however. She sure went to the heavy hitters: Jerry Fallwell, Joel Osteen, and Ted Haggard--yes, THE Ted Haggard. Haggard was a big focus of the hour long special, since he was serving as the president of the National Association of Evangelicals at the time of the filming, just prior to his run-in with the truth. The opening screen mentioned the scandal. That should have been my cue to turn it off. I couldn't though. It was like a bad accident--I had to watch.

The road trip visited many of the highlights of faith in America: from the almost humorous Christian Wrestling Federation to the commercialized Holy Land Experience in Orlando, Ms. Pelosi did all she could to show that Christ-followers were at best misguided lunatics and at worst ill-motivated greed machines determined to make millions by manipulating people through faith. Unfortunately, it isn't hard to find good examples of bad churches and theologies in our country. I found myself truly saddened by many of the things I saw, but in so many circumstances, the misguided, seemingly ridiculous actions of Christians were founded upon a whole lot of passion for love, acceptance, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Many of the people she spoke to (save the Haggards, Fallwells, and Osteens) interacted with her in a way that was marinated in grace and true Christ-centered love. I was really proud of those people, even though they had no clue that some of the ways they acted, spoke and even looked made them seem like looney tunes. It really brought me back to the Word.

"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God" 1 Corinthians 1:18

I'm reminded of this fact every time someone that I knew growing up or someone I just meet finds out I am a pastor. They can't believe it, and then when they do, it seems almost silly that I'm not in some other job with a goal of piling up money or drawing up power. I look quite foolish. But I'm ok with that. I'd rather see myself through a mirror of truth than lie to myself through a puddle of pride.

With that said, I have to also say this: can we PLEASE get our act together, people? The loudest Christians in our country are the same people that should embarrass the heck out of a people saved by grace! Beyond that, when you're dealing with people who need to know Jesus more than anything else, look at yourself first...

do you look like a freak?
...or do you just look like someone who has been so freaked by the person of Christ that you can't help but show love and grace to those you meet?

do you sound judgmental?
...or do you leave the judging to someone much more qualified--like God?

are you impacting those around you for Him?
...or is the only impact you're leaving with the people you meet the thought that you're living in some idealistic other world?

A little self-diagnostic can be very helpful in finding out how effective you are truly being with the Good News. Not to say it all depends on you, because it doesn't. Inasmuch as it does require us to share our faith though, we need to examine the way we portray Christ as His representatives.

To the world, we may be a bunch of idiots. I'm ok with that, as long as we're approachable in our idiocy.

Needs More Salt...

"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men." Jesus in Matthew 5:13

How true. How true. You ever have a life experience that sheds new light on a passage of scripture? This week, I have had that happen.

For those of you that don't know, I have had some health issues in my 27 short years here. Believe it or not, I had a heart attack at the age of 21. To make a long story short, there was no problem with my plumbing... it was all electrical. (you can click here for more info if you're interested) For the past 5 years I have not had even one flutter of an issue--until this week. For whatever reason, I began having palpitations quite frequently. Sometimes they would come once an hour. Sometimes, I would have 15 in a minute. Needless to say, it was distracting at best and panic inducing at worst. Given my past history, I don't panic when this stuff happens, but I do take notice and realize my need to get it checked out.

I went to the cardiologist on Monday and they ran all kinds of tests. My prayer was just that I wouldn't have to go on any meds again. Last time it was almost unbearable. My blood work, EKG and ultrasound came back normal. What concerned me was my doc's obsession with taking my blood pressure. I felt like I was trapped in an episode of Monk. Two, then three, then six times later, Dr. G. tells me that my pressure is high. I thought "maybe it is because you're stressing me out with your incessant use of your sphygmomanometer." He obviously thinks it is from other sources.

I left the office after scheduling a follow up appointment and determined to kick this thing the right way. I have been exercising every day, getting more rest, and (worst of all) changing my diet. I have cut WAY down on sodium and high-fat foods. Sure, that sounds healthy and all, but do you have any idea how hard that is? I have new respect for those of you who have been doing this for years.

All of this got me thinking how accurate the salt illustration is in Matthew. I have got to tell you: a world without salt is a world that is bland, tasteless, and down right hard to live in. Think I'm kidding? Try going one day without consuming more than 800mg of sodium. That's what I have been doing, and it is tough! It makes me proud to be called salt by Jesus. Salt is good stuff, man. It is now part of my prayer life to pray that I'll truly be what God is intending to make me--that everywhere I go people will encounter that salt of God and not want to be without it.

Once you've tasted life with Christ, you realize how life without Him could never measure up.

Off to go eat some yogurt. Peace.

Authentic Excuse?

Happy Sunday, everyone!

There's a big buzz word going around churches these days. I actually think it is big in a number of circles, but my experience with it is mainly in ministry. The word is 'authentic'. I have to say that I've used the word many a time to explain part of what I'm shooting for in leading worship. We all want to be seen as real or honest. When people can sense that you are not being straight with them, they will tune you out. It is always a goal of mine to share from the heart--and to be real in caring about what other people have to share as well.

This brings me to my frustration for the day. I am convinced that there are many people who use the term 'authentic' as a wall to put up or a bad excuse when they feel challenged on anything. I have heard the term so misused and so overstated that it is hard to even know what the word means anymore. For instance, there is a strong believer I know that has a mouth worse than a trucker, but refuses to give that up to God to be dealt with because it is 'just who he is'. Imagine if we all took that stance.

"Sure, I sleep around...but that's just who I am. I'm not gonna put up some front and pretend like it's not."
"Yeah, I still smoke up...but it's really not a big deal. It helps me to relate to those people that I'm sharing the Gospel with. They wouldn't take me seriously otherwise. They'd think I'm some church freak."
"I'm a Christian and all, but I'm not like the type that are all into it and stuff. That's just so fake."

Look, here's the deal. The Christian life is a journey. Christ invites us to follow Him. It is pretty stinkin' impossible to follow someone if you never move from where you are. If being overt in your sin and making an excuse to stay there is more 'authentic', then maybe it means your decision to follow Christ could possibly be a little more inauthentic than you'd like to admit. I can't be the judge of that, but I can certainly show you numerous portions of scripture that say that very thing.

I am authentically sinful. I am also authentically being changed. If I am excited about what God is doing in my life and the lives of those around me, you cannot call me inauthentic. In fact, interestingly enough, the definition of authentic is something "conforming to fact, and therefore worthy of trust, reliance, or belief." I'm thrilled to say that I am something that is conforming to fact--the fact of Jesus Christ.

I will admit that many people do come off as churchy and not willing to get to the heart of the matter. I would agree that those kind of 'everything is perfect today because of God' attitudes are, many times detrimental to the Gospel because 9 out of 10 people can't relate to a 'perfect' life. Incidentally, I fall into that 9 out of 10. To put it as authentically as I know how, life is far from perfect. I don't easily relate to those 'happy, jolly Christians,' but I cannot and will not question their authenticity.

I guess my frustration with this whole buzz is that being authentic essentially means that they are just doing what is natural and free of outside influence and 'manipulation.' Unfortunately, I need a little manipulating. My natural way stinks for the most part. The Bible agrees with me. Proverbs 14 says "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death." Given the choice between the unchanged, natural me and the changed, affected me, I'd take the latter every time.

Let's be honest. Authenticity really means honesty. You find me a person of integrity and honesty, and I'll show you a person who is authentic. Cutting through the buzz cuts through the excuses.