Thanks for the Kindle

On Sunday, I was totally surprised by a gift at the end of the worship service: a Kindle from Amazon.com. To be honest, I had heard of them, but had never really seen, held, or salivated over one...yet. But as many of you know, I love to read, so I was thrilled to find out that this one device can hold 1,500 complete books! And it came with one book already loaded, "The Prodigal God," by Timothy Keller. Now, only 1,499 more to go...

(Plus...it will read the books aloud to me while I'm driving, which keeps my hands free for driving, eating, and talking on cell phone. Just joking, Mom.)

Anyway, thanks to all of you for gift, as well as the kind words of encouragement. Michele and I are so blessed to have the privilege of serving at The Bridge. We love our church family, and we are excited about the days ahead.

God is good!

I'm back!

It's been a while since my last post. Yes, for all of you who are worried about my well-being, I am fine. There is no shortage of things to write about...but there seems to always be a shortage of time. (which is a myth, by the way...)

The truth is: we all make time for what is important to us. Right?

Sometimes I wonder whether or not anyone ever reads these posts. I start rationalizing that my life is busy enough already, without the added pressure of my self-imposed creative writing assignment deadlines. Besides, wouldn't the time be better spent working on Sunday's sermon, or reading a new book, or mowing the yard, or watching the American League Baseball Playoffs? Why exert all that mental energy composing thought-provoking insights for an imaginary audience? What's the use?

And then, something interesting happened. I bumped into a friend at HEB, and they asked why I hadn't updated the blog in a while. (Hmmm...) Then, I asked a new family at our church how they found out about us, and their answer surprised me. They came across our church website, and subsequently my blog, and were intrigued enough to visit. (Wow.) Not to mention there are a few of you who constantly encourage me to keep writing--no matter what, just keep writing. (You know who you are.)

Gradually, I came to realize three things about my blogging:

1. The discipline of writing is its own reward. I want to always keep thinking, learning, and growing...so why not write about it while I'm on the journey?

2. God can touch lives (through this blog), even when I never know about it.

3. The blog can be utilized more effectively to communicate vision to our church family. For example, we are having an outreach event on October 30th (www.fallfunfestival.org), and I want to encourage you to be praying for God's will to be accomplished on that night. We are going to demonstrate the love of Christ to our community in a tangible way...and it will be an awesome night.

Anyway, I'll keep writing, and you keep reading. And if something touches your heart, challenges your beliefs, inspires you to grow, or just makes you laugh...let me hear from you.

Is that a deal? God bless you.

It's Not About You (Sorry about that...)

It was one of those moments when time seemed to stand still. A guest speaker was standing in front of our church family, and he said these simple words:

"As a believer, almost nothing that happens in your life, good or bad, is about you."

What?!? What do you mean it's not about me? Everything that happens in my life is about me! (Well...I know that's not supposed to be how we view life's ups and downs, but in reality, that's kind of what happens, right?)

I got a raise. (Translation: God must really think I'm awesome!)

I got laid off. (Translation: God must be really mad at me! Uh-oh, I'm screwed...)

My kids are healthy. (Translation: God loves us more than the Johnsons, because their poor kids always have allergies, asthma, and ADD. How sad...)

I have a car wreck. (Translation: Why, oh why, did God ever put me on this earth?!? I'm the most persecuted human being that ever lived! Please God, take me now! I can't take this anymore...)

And so it goes... Why did this happen to me? Why can't I ever get a break? Why aren't my prayers being answered? What could possibly go wrong next?

But hold on just a second. What if the whole "big picture" of all humankind was actually NOT about you? What if your job status didn't reflect how much God loves you? What if your kids' health was just because they eat right and exercise? What if your car wreck happened because you were sending text messages during rush hour on I-35?

What if it's NOT all about you? Instead of wondering why God never seems to answer your prayers...here's a thought: maybe he wants to use YOU (in your present circumstance, good or bad) to BE the answer to someone else's prayer. Maybe the ultimate goal is HIS GLORY being revealed...not YOUR HAPPINESS being preserved.

If that's true, instead of it making you really, really disappointed (that all of Heaven isn't watching "Truman Show," with you playing Jim Carrey's character), let me offer you another perspective: God loves you, He trusts you, and He believes in you enough to USE YOU in His eternal plan. He knows you can handle whatever comes your way--good or bad. And because of your trust in Him, He knows He can trust you to be a blessing to others.

Cool thought, huh?

Like the opening line of Rick Warren's best-selling book, The Purpose-Driven Life, "It's not about you."

Actually, it's all about Him.

Jesus Encounters

Consider this quote:

"Any revelation from God's Word that does not lead us to an encounter with God only serves to make us more religious. The Church cannot afford 'form without power,' for it creates Christians without purpose." (from Bill Johnson's book, When Heaven Invades Earth, p. 87)

So I ask myself, "Do I really desire to encounter Jesus when I read the Bible and pray...or am I only fulfilling some religious requirements, because that's what I am supposed to do as a Christian?"

Seem like I'm splitting hairs? Look more carefully...or should I say listen more carefully to the distinction here. It's not enough to be informed by study. It's not enough to be inspired by worship music. It's not enough to be instructed by your spiritual leader(s).

You need an ENCOUNTER with Jesus.

And I need one, too, because that is the only hope I have of being changed into the man He wants me to become. And it's never a "done-deal." The process is never finished. But when we encounter Jesus, we will experience his life-changing POWER. And here's the disturbing part: without him, we ourselves become fulfillments the solemn prophecy about the last days, regarding people "having a form of godliness, but denying its power" (2 Timothy 3:5)

Ouch...

Welcome to Texas!

One more thing about Kelly Brown...

They have an annual outreach event to new international students at UT. It's called "Welcome to Texas." There are 2 parts to the event: a huge BBQ dinner-on-the-grounds, and then 2 weeks later, a square dance celebration. (Trying to get a mental picture? Just imagine lots of red & white checkered table cloths, picnic tables, straw cowboy hats, denim overalls, and photo ops with real longhorn cattle...)

Got it? Now, instead of a bunch of red-necked country folk wiping BBQ sauce off their chins with red bandannas...imagine the cowboy hats being worn by a Vietnamese pre-law student, or a Tanzanian engineer. In fact, you don't have to imagine; you can actually go and see for yourself. The 2nd of these two events (the square dance) will happen next Friday night, August 28th on the UT campus. If you're interested in attending, contact Kelly yourself (isfm_austin@yahoo.com).

FYI: Check out this list of countries represented last Friday night at their BBQ dinner (the number of students from each country is noted, as well) :

Australia 8
Austria 4
Belgium 1
Brazil 3
Bulgaria 1
Canada 1
China 31
Denmark 2
England/Great Britain 4
France 9
Germany 6
India 22
Indonesia 1
Italy 8
Japan 3
Kazakhastan 1
Korea 10
Macedonia 1
Mexico 6
Netherlands 1
Norway 2
Paraguay 1
Peru 3
Poland 2
Puerto Rico 1
Scotland 4
Singapore 6
South Africa 1
Spain 2
Sri Lanka 1
Taiwan 33
Ukraine 1
Vietnam 4

No Milk Without Manure

I was talking to a friend of mine yesterday about spiritual growth. He's a missionary to the University of Texas, particularly the international student population. For the last 21 years, Kelly Brown has been the leader of ISFM (International Students Friendship Ministries). We were talking about the many challenges of ministering to such a wide range of cultures. It takes constant work to evaluate, plan, implement, re-evaluate, re-plan, and re-implement (and so on...) effective ministry strategies.

So many ethnic groups. So many languages. So many cultural barriers. So many attempts to build bridges. (...and so many failed attempts to build bridges.)

The work is never done. The strategies are always changing. The satisfaction is ever elusive...

But, even though it's a challenge, Kelly shared one of the Proverbs that has often encouraged him, and kept him focused during this season: "Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox comes an abundant harvest" (Prov. 14:4). Then he shared his college-ministry-translation: There is no milk without manure.

The work of God in our lives will always be just that: WORK. But it is necessary for effectiveness. Sure, you can have a perfectly clean barn without any animals in it...but you would also have no milk, or eggs, or whatever else you get from barns! There is always a "mess" in ministry...but changed lives are always worth it!

You Can't Keep It To Yourself!

One year ago TODAY (August 19, 2008) I did the unthinkable. On a 146-yard par 3 (that’s a golf hole, in case some of you aren’t into the world’s greatest life-long sport), I hit a perfect 7-iron that hit the green, bounced twice, and rolled right into the cup. It was a hole-in-one!

I couldn’t believe it! I’d never hit one before. I’d never had a friend to hit one. In fact, I’d never even seen one at all…except for on TV. It was awesome! And immediately, the first thought that came into my mind was, “I’ve got to tell someone!”

(Luckily, my friend Justin was there to witness this extraordinary athletic achievement—OK, so it’s not exactly like breaking the 4-minute mile, but it was still pretty cool for a hacker like me!)

As soon as I got back to the car, I started working my way through the contact list in my cell phone. I called my wife, my parents, my golf buddies, my fourth-grade math teacher, my dentist, and even returned a few of the “wrong numbers” in my call history. After all, wouldn’t want to leave anyone out, now would I? (The following week, my name even appeared in the Austin American Statesman, where they document all the hole-in-ones from local golf courses. And yes, I still have the newspaper clipping, along with the ball, which I will pass along to my children when I die.)

So, you see, this was a big deal! Ranks right up there with world peace, Haley’s comet, and the invention on Blue Bell ice cream. This is the kind of news you have to share! It must be told.

Now, time-out. Let’s pause Sportscenter for a moment, and ask yourself one simple question: Does Jesus mean so much to you that you have to share Him? Is it impossible for you to keep quiet about Him?

When you get a chance, read 2 Kings 7. It tells the story of 4 lepers who make an incredible discovery. When they realize the miracle that has taken place in front of their very eyes, they make a powerful statement: "We're not doing right. This is a day of good news, and we are keeping it to ourselves." (v.9)

Wow! Enough said...

Breaking News: Austin Man Reports "Healing" of His 2002 Ford Expedition

Two quick stories about random unexplained coincidences that pointed me toward God. (A.K.A. "miracles," but more about that later...)

1.) About a month ago, I had to make a one-day round trip from Austin to Dallas (and back, of course...that's why they call it a round trip) to pick up Michele & our two youngest daughters. For several weeks prior to this, the A/C in my vehicle had been getting gradually worse, and was now blowing air that was warmer than the heater. Coolant leak in the system, I guess...

So that morning, all the way to Dallas, I was sweating profusely, praying for a miracle, and dreading the reaction that Michele would have when she realized there was no A/C. (Did I mention that we are in a long stretch of 100-degree days in Texas, and the daughters in question are 2 yrs. old and 6 mos? Important facts to the story...) By the time I arrived in Dallas, picked up the family, caught a quick lunch, and started back south on I-35, the strangest thing happened: I suddenly realized that our A/C was blowing cool air! In fact, it was running colder than the day we bought it 5 yrs ago! Could it be true? Was it a mirage? How long could it last in the heat of the day?

Well, let me just say it blew with arctic force, and nearly formed frost on my nose. For 2 1/2 hours, we rode in frigid comfort. It was a miracle! ONLY GOD could fix an air conditioner for a road trip in Texas! (The funny thing is the next morning it was back to being broken...and it hasn't worked since.) Hmmm...

2.) The same vehicle in question soon had another problem: the front window on the driver's side stopped working. It died while in the "down" position; because of the heat and no A/C, I just left the windows open all the time...and now, I had no choice! For 2 weeks, the front window had stayed down, both day and night, and even through a rain storm. (Thanks to Josh for taping up the window while we were gone! You 'da man!)

Then today, another strange occurrence: I saw dark storm clouds gathering above me, so I pressed the button to raise the window (purely out of habit), and suddenly it started working! No explanation. I didn't do anything new. A broken window was healed! A dead power motor came to life! The Resurrection strikes again!

Sound a little crazy? Yeah, I guess so. But I've recently determined to look for God-appearances in everyday life. Random unexplained coincidences that point me toward Him. Miracles.

(Now, if He could just do something about my tempermental weed-eater...)

Snake in the Grass

Have you ever heard someone say, "Better watch out for old so-and-so; he's a real snake in the grass!" Well, after this morning's brush with death (OK, maybe that's a little exaggerated), I'll have a new appreciation for the phrase. Let me explain...

Early this morning, I went outside to water the flower beds. As I walked over to the side of the house to turn on the hose, my heart raced as I heard a rustling sound at my feet. I looked down, just in time to see a large black snake slither out of sight into the tall grass along the fenceline. (I had nearly stepped on him!) By the time I went to the garage, got not one but two shovels, and returned to the scene, the snake was gone.

I should've been glad, but instead, I couldn't stop wondering where else in my yard he was hiding. You see, may I remind you I have 4 daughters...and so far, none of them seem to be particularly excited about snakes. So, I spent the next 30 mins combing the tall grass around the A/C units, along the fence line, in my overgrown flower beds. Never did find that guy...

There are probably lots of lessons to be learned here (never water the flowers in flip-flops; always carry a shotgun with you before 7am; teach all family members how to suck the venom out of a snake bite; move someplace where they don't have big, black snakes!), but I want to share one simple observation:

My grass is too tall.

You see, if I had done a better job mowing, edging, and weed-eating my lawn, it would have been a less-attractive hiding place for snakes. (As any golfer knows, if you always keep your ball in the fairways, you don't have to worry about those "Beware of rattlesnakes" signs. Snakes like the security of the "rough" more than manicured greens. Duh!) So, because I have allowed my yard to become a residential dream for reptiles...it's no wonder he moved into the neighborhood.

Now, let's bring this closer to home. In my spiritual life, I need to be careful not to let the enemy slither undetected into the tall grass. I want my heart to be safe. I want to protect my family from danger. So, the tall grass of temptation needs to be mowed regularly. The weeds of unforgiveness make a great hiding place for the enemy of my soul. As the 23rd Psalm says, "Lead me not into temptation, but deliver me from evil." Be alert. Watch and pray. Guard your heart.

Always, be on the watch for a snake in the grass...but also, keep the grass short enough that you can see him. (...and then chase him away with not one, but two Holy Spirit Shovels!)

The Secret Place

Do you have a "secret place" where God meets with you?

A place no one else goes but you Him?
A place you "hide away" with Him to learn His ways?
A place where He "works" on you?
A place where He's making you more like Him?
A place where you seek wisdom?
A place where you find strength for each day?
A place where He renews your hope?

A secret place.

Last night, I heard Rick Dubose share a message on "The Secret Place," and I was challenged! I am humbled by the reality that God wants to meet with me...but I allow the busy-ness of my life to crowd Him out. In essence, I have often "stood him up," left him there waiting, day after day, with nothing but weak excuses and promises that things will be different next time. If I treated anyone else that way, I would either be an absent-minded knucklehead, or simply a jerk! (Lord, forgive me. You deserve better...)

Consider this: Jesus appointed the twelve to be disciples..."that they might be with him." (Mark 3:13). That's pretty much everything to a follower of Christ. Just be with Him.

Find your secret place...and go there! He's waiting...

Drink Coffee, Do Good

Just a reminder: all of the coffee we brew on Sunday mornings is from Land of a Thousand Hills. This is a ministry based in Atlanta, Georgia that serves the families of the victims of the Rwandan genocide, by helping them begin new lives by earning a living producing some of the world's finest coffee. (...in my humble opinion)

In addition to the FREE coffee we brew & serve in the lobby, you can purchase bags to take home ($10), as well as t-shirts, coffee cups, travel mugs, and more.

A cool thing happened this week. Some officers from the Pflugerville Fire Department dropped by our office for their annual inspection. As they walked through the lobby, they noticed the LOTH display, and inquired about it. Before they left, they had purchased 2 bags for themselves, and were very interested in checking out the website to learn more about the ministry in Rwanda.

(And oh, by the way, we also have an emergency light bulb that needs to be replaced...but they were so nice while writing us a warning! Gotta get right on that...)

You never know when something as simple as the coffee you drink will be an opportunity to witness for Jesus Christ. So, keep up the good work: Drink Coffee, Do Good!

I Don't Think I Fit In Here...

These are some of the most awful words I hear as a pastor: "I don't think I fit in here." And when I do, it makes me want to scream into a pillow, or eat chips & salsa, or go for a 3-mile run--anything to let out a little frustration, but without doing something I'll have to repent of later. I want EVERYONE to fit in here! I want everyone to find a place to worship, a place to serve, a place to hang out, a place to grow, a place to find healing, and a place to "get the inside jokes." Is that asking too much of a local church? I don't think so.

So, why do these words bug me? Did the person who uttered them say something wrong? Is it their fault? NO, of course not! I appreciate the straightforward honesty. But to tell you the truth, there are lots of reasons for someone to say this, and it's not always easy to tell what's really going on in their lives. For some, it's a genuine cry for help. For others, it's a selfish cry for attention. For some, it's the prodigal son desperately wanting to find a home. For others, it's the older brother who's frustrated that he's no longer the center of attention. Try to follow me here...

No one can ever really know the heart of a man except that man, himself. But, for those making a cry for help, this is what I think is going on inside their heads:

"I really like this church, and I've been coming for a while. The worship is inspiring, the sermon speaks to where I am living, the children's ministry seems to be effective...but something's missing. I'm starting to wonder if I truly belong here, or if anyone would miss me if I was gone. Am I developing any true friendships? I definitely feel like I am 'buying-in' to this church's vision, but I still don't feel personally connected. Maybe, it's me. I don't think I fit in here..."

If the words above are like a page torn from your journal, please hear this: You DO belong here! A local church is a family where everyone has a seat at the table, and also, helps with the dishes afterward. The local church is an army where every ranking officer has orders that must be followed, in order for the battle to be won. The local church is a body where every single member is important (including eyes, ears, pinky toes, colons, and vocal cords). The local church is awesome--but it's not-quite-as-awesome-as-it-could-be unless everyone goes along for the ride!

The Bridge Church is in transition. That's obvious to see...but the day we STOP transitioning to the next thing God has for us, will be the day we start dying. (And in case you can't discern the rhetorical irony here...I don't intend to let that happen on my watch.) Change is uncomfortable. If we're not careful, things (and sometimes, people) will get lost in tranistion. And we can't let that happen either.

So the next time you hear your brother or sister wondering aloud if they fit in here... look them in the eye and say, "Yes, you do!" Then take them to lunch, invite them to a small group, go to the driving range together, pour them a cup of Rwandan coffee, or give them a big hug and say, "I love you man!"

(Now, to be honest, some of my jeans don't fit like they used to, but that's another issue...)

LOST: My ox named, Rover

Recently, I read a few verses from the Bible (Deuteronomy 22:1-4) that challenged my understanding of "ministry." At first glance, the passage seems culturally irrelevant, but it contains powerful truth. These verses describe an age-old tendency that many of us have:

When we see someone else's problem, instead of getting involved or helping them out...sometimes it's easier to look the other way. To do nothing. To ignore it.

But that's not what the Bible says here. Instead, it says when you see an ox or sheep wandering around (insert dog or cat , if it helps you relate better to the story), do not ignore it. Rather, go and find it's owner. And if you don't know who it belongs to, take it home with you. Give it food, water, and a bath! Then, when the owner comes, give it back to them gladly.

3 times in 4 verses this phrase is repeated: Do not ignore it. Why?

Could it be that God's Word is pointing out how callous I have become? For someone who thinks he's a servant-leader, what if I'm a selfish-leader instead? Surely not. When my brother has a need, I would never ignore it! (...or would I?) Do I only help people I like? Or only when it's convenient? Or only when there's life-&-death hanging in the balance?

After all, this isn't an emergency room visit; it's a lost pet, for goodness sakes! How big a deal is it, anyway?! Don't sweat the small stuff, right? Wrong! Because what's "small stuff" to me might be "big stuff" to my brother.

The point is: Do not ignore it. Care. Listen. Be there. Get your hands dirty. Get some mud in your floorboard.

And don't just take my word for it; try this one on for size:

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus... (Philippians 2:3-4)

Pumped up about popsicles!

I am so excited about Saturday! I can't wait (and neither can my kids) for the Deutschenfest parade coming up on May 16th. We've got our green t-shirts ready, we're practicing our smile in the mirror, and we're praying for divine encounters with the people in the crowd. (OK, maybe only 2-out-of-3 of those things are real...) It's going to be a blast.

What are we doing on Saturday? About 75 volunteers from BCC will be walking the parade route passing out frozen pops. Instead of riding on a cool float, waving at the crowd, or throwing candy on the street, or even having our band play Christian music--we want to do something unexpected. So, we've got 6,000 little surprises, frozen & ready!

In case you don't "get it," here's the Big Idea: We want to "build a bridge" with the community by serving people in a tangible way. Love in action. Kindness on display. And why? Because I think sometimes you have to show Jesus before you can share Jesus. It's kind of like going the second mile. Offering someone your coat. Giving without expecting to be repaid. It's like giving a cup of cold water in Jesus' name...except instead of water, it's a popsicle!

Who knows, maybe next year we'll give away pints of Blue Bell. Nothing's Too Hard For God, right?

Wanted: Mentors

Happy (belated) Mother's Day to all of you! And in case I forget to tell all of you dads on or before June 21st, Happy Father's Day, too!

Yesterday, I shared a message about the need for mentors in the church today. But this wasn't just some sort of theoretical idealism talking--it's a topic that is fast-becoming a passion of my heart. I keep asking myself, where are all the spiritual fathers (and mothers)? No matter where I am in my spiritual journey, there are individuals who have gone before me. And there are others who are following behind me. Which points to something very interesting:

I am BOTH in need of a mentor...and I must be a mentor to someone else.

So I ask myself, are either one of these happening in my life? What about in yours? If I am a Timothy, where is my Paul? And who are the Timothys that need me to be their Paul? What should I be receiving from my Paul? What am I supposed to be giving to my Timothy? When should we meet? How often? What should we talk about? Should this person be my pastor? Could it be my spouse? Will they come and find me, or should I go looking for them?

You may be thinking, "Yeah, yeah, yeah...and which came first, the chicken or the egg?" (OK, so this may seem a little overwhelming, or a little too intensive for you. But my point is simple--Jesus told us to make disciples, and that can't be done on Sunday mornings only. Three worship songs and a sermon don't cut it. Too much of "LIFE" happens in those other 6 days. There's got to be more to this spiritual life thing...

So, let me paint a picture for you:

We need people taking other people under their wings. We need big brothers & big sisters. We need older couples investing in younger couples. We need college students spending time with 5th-graders. We need Mr. Grey Hair (or NO hair) taking Mr. Spiked-Hair out to lunch. Or to a ballgame. Or on a fishing trip. And then instead of talking about the NBA playoffs, or the economy, or the stinking weather--we actually dive in head-first to conversations that really matter in view of eternity! Let's talk about things like my prayer life, my marriage, my relationship with my kids (and how I can improve as a dad), my ministry calling, my finances, my fears, my physical health, my understanding of Scripture, or even my struggles with temptation.

For some, this may be too weird, or too intrusive, or too time-consuming. I get that--I really do. It will take time to do this. The time you devote to a mentorship will be taken from something else--your family, your hobbies, your yardwork, or even your sleep. Nonetheless, I can't help but believe it would be worth it in the long run...not to mention, it's what Jesus told us to do!

(NOTE: For those of you who question the biblical imperative for this stuff, take a quick glance through 1 & 2 Timothy, and Titus chapter 2. Let me know what you think...)

Got tickets?

Hope you got your tickets...to the gun show! (Like father, like daughter.)

3 out of 4 ain't bad

I've just got to say that I love these girls! Most of you know that I have 4 daughters, but only the oldest 3 are pictured here. Tonight, I had a conversation with them at bedtime that was eye-opening, to say the least. We talked about life-after-death, the reality of the rapture, the book 90 Minutes in Heaven, inviting friends to church, sharing Jesus at school...and of course, the new Hannah Montana movie coming soon to a theatre near you.

I'd love to tell you that we got all the issues covered, the questions answered, and the problems solved. But I'm a dad, not a superhero. The truth is, these talks aren't always so theologically-charged...Far from it! In fact, more often we're debating who took whose flip-flops, and where so-and-so's favorite skirt has disappeared to.

All I can say is these are the moments I want to hold on to. They don't come along often enough, but when they do, I don't want to miss a thing. Too many nights, I go through the motions. The words just roll off my tongue, almost without thinking: Are your clothes picked out for tomorrow? Anyone need to potty again? Is your backpack by the door? Get in bed. I'm counting to 10...1...2...3...It's not funny girls! I said get in bed! Daddy's serious. It's already 30 minutes past your bedtime, so let's move it! Alright, we ready to pray?! Dear God, thanks for the day, forgive our sin, bless everyone we can think of, bless the missionaries, bless those less fortunate than us, help us have a good night's sleep. Amen. Love you girls. (Kiss...hug...kiss again...hug again...one more kiss...one more hug...and that's it! Done. Lights out. Dad's gone.)

A word to all the dads: cherish the bedtime talks! (And bonus points if you can work in some eschatology next time...)

Thanksgiving in March

I was just thinking about how good God has been to me. As Dave Ramsey (of Financial Peace University) would say when asked how he is doing, "Better than I deserve." Amen to that! Wonderful church family, great service yesterday, moving locations soon, 5 incredible women in my life, 2 dogs I like most of the time, spending 3 days in OK for Spring Break, loving the in-laws, quiet small-town mornings, fresh coffee & my Bible...need I go on? We're healthy, we're happy, and we're heaven-bound (oops, that almost sounded like a Southern Gospel song title!).

Anyway, God is good...and I'm thankful. Now, bring on the turkey & dressing!

What are you thankful for? I'd love to hear some of your thoughts--don't make me wait until November...

I Love the Rain!

Yesterday, the high was 80 degrees. Today it was 48. Wow! Another unpredictable day of springtime weather in Texas... And the only thing better than a 30-degree cold front overnight is a 30-degree cold front WITH RAIN!!! Three days ago, I finally let my angel-soft, lily-white legs see some sunshine, as I left the house for the first time in shorts. Today, it was a wind-breaker, hooded sweatshirt, and earmuffs. (OK, so I don't even own earmuffs...but this would have been the day to wear some, if I did!)

Now, for me, a cold rainy day in March was just what the doctor ordered. But for my daughter, it was a different story. Her third-grade class was supposed to have a picnic lunch at Zilker Park after their visit to the Children's Museum, but the rain changed all that. Imagine the scene: twenty grumbling third-graders eating Lunchables in the warm, dry confines of their classroom, feeling betrayed by the weatherman and cheated out of their field trip. (Cue the violin music here...) It was a sad sight.

So, what's the difference? It's all about making a CHOICE. I choose joy. I choose life. I choose the glass being half full. I choose to love the rain. So just because the rain fell, my spirits didn't have to. Think about it: my yard got watered, my car got washed, my raincoat got worn, my windshield wipers got used (OK, now that's a bit of a reach!), my home air conditioner got turned off, and my Starbucks gift card got redeemed. That's a pretty productive day, huh?!

In his classic book, Here and Now, Henri Nouwen says this about JOY:

"Joy is essential to the Christian life. Whatever we may think
or say about God, when we are not joyful, our thoughts and words cannot bear fruit...Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day. It is a choice based on the knowledge that we belong to God and have found in God our refuge and our safety and that nothing, not even death, can take God away from us."

Philippians 4:4 says, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"

Nothing's Too Hard For God!

The wristbands are in! For those of you who are interested in wearing your official "faith gear," we've got you covered. After giving away nearly ALL of the orange NTHFG wristbands on the very first Sunday we intriduced them, we knew we needed to order more...and did we ever!

We have 1,000 to be exact! (That should be a good start, don't you think?) So come 'n get 'em this Sunday March 8th--take what you need, but please use what you take. Some of you have asked about how many you can get, so let me share a few thoughts:

1. These wristbands can be powerful tools to share your faith in Jesus--and I definitely want them to be used (not just sitting in a box somewhere)!

2. Although they cost around $.50/each, we have chosen to give them to you FREE of charge. I simply believe this is an investment into the kingdom, so it's "worth it" for BCC to purchase them if you'll use them. Think of it as "Jesus-advertising."

3. Someone may ask, "What if I want 10, or 20, 0r more?" That's fine, but again, please don't take more than you will use.

4. If anyone wants to contribute money for the purchase of the wristbands, YOU CAN! Just designate your check or envelope as "NTHFG wristbands."

5. How can they be best utilized? First of all, PRAY for divine appointments; allow the Holy Spirit to prompt you when & how to share your faith. Next, be ready when people ask you the obvious question, "What does your bracelet say?" (Easy one!) Also, recognize the many great opportunities all around you--especially regarding financial fears, due to the economy. You are probably already having daily conversations about the economy, the bailout, job layoffs, foreclosures, bankruptcy, and the future. Rather than allowing those conversations to stay negative, hopeless, and discouraging...why not set a different tone?! Share your trust in God as your firm foundation. Spread JOY! Offer HOPE! Share FAITH!

Remember this passage in Ephesians 4:29: "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

Colossians 4:5 says, "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."

OK, just one more... "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have (in Christ Jesus)." (1 Peter 3:15)

Let me conclude by encouraging you to WEAR ORANGE WITH PRIDE!!! (I'm referring to the wristbands, of course! Boomer Sooner...) Pick up a few on Sunday, and continue to spread the message to a world that desperately needs to hear: NOTHING'S TOO HARD FOR GOD.

No Testimony Without a Test

Don't you hate it when someone says, "I know what you're going through"? When you're hurting, you really don't care to hear lectures, pep talks, and motivational speeches from people who have supposedly "been where you've been." A hug? Yes. A $100 bill? You bet! But empty words from some cheerleader on a sugar-high? Don't bother. It's like losing your job and having Bill Gates put his arm around your shoulder saying, "I know how you feel." Yeah right!

Let's face it, when life hurts, talk is cheap.

But what if someone really did know how you feel? What if they had walked a mile in your shoes? What if they sat where you sit? Now that would be different. You might actually be willing to listen, because you might learn something! You could ask questions...and get real answers, based on real experience.

Think about this: God turns obstacles into opportunities. Every pain in my life becomes an opportunity to share God's love, grace, faithfulness, and provision. Even when I don't see the "good" in tough times, two facts are always true: 1) God is there to help me through it; and 2) God wants me to use my pain to help others. I've reminded of this twice in the last week...

1. I heard about a family in Caldwell, TX who lost everything they owned in a house fire last Saturday. Immediately, my heart was broken for this family of six (mom, dad & 4 boys, ages 7-13), not just because it's a sad story...but because I have experienced a fire myself. In 1986, our family lost our home to a fire. I have often shared about how grateful I was to receive my first shirt, jeans, and 3-pack of Fruit-of-the-Looms after the fire. We stayed with a family from church for several weeks, until a rental home could be found. Eventually, life returned to "normal," but I'll never forget the feeling of huddling together with my family on the front lawn of my home while firefighters rushed in and out. The sights, sounds, and smells of that afternoon are still with me today.

2. I got an email from a missionary friend, Dick Herman, whose father was just diagnosed with a brain tumor. Immediately, my heart was stirred for him, not just because it;s a sad story...but because I have experienced the news myself. In the late 1990's, my dad was diagnosed with a brain tumor. I remember hearing the news of his stroke, the subsequent diagnostic tests, and the eventual surgery. I remember saying goodbye to him just before he was wheeled into the OR, and wondering if I would see him again. I remember the days, weeks, and months of recovery. I remember the way God provided for my family's finances in the most unexpected ways. Eventually, life returned to "normal," but I'll never forget the slurred speech, starry looks, and gentle seizures during those early days. The sights & sounds are still with me today.

So, what does all this mean? Twice in one week I heard sad stories. But twice in one week I was ready to respond. Why? Because the pain of my past became an opportunity for God's love to shine. My test became a testimony...and it was time to share! You may not have been through a fire, and you may not have watched your father recover from surgery, but you've still got something to share. So share it, and let the healing begin...

Life During Lent: Getting Rid of "IT"

Sorry it has taken a few days to get back to you guys about my "Lent Life." I have thought a lot about this, and I keep coming back to this simple truth: I should give up something I would actually miss. For me, that's Diet Coke. (Yep, it's that simple...my apologies to those of you who were expecting something more!) IT doesn't necessarily have to be deep, or complicated, or of some "spiritual" value--IT just needs to matter to you. In other words, every time you get ready to eat, drink, watch, read, drive, play, or rent IT...you need to stop and think, "Nope, not this time. I'm giving IT up, so I can draw closer to Jesus."

So, that's my subtraction. Diet Coke.

Now, for the addition: I know I need to spend more time in prayer--that's a given. So that's #1: Get up 30 mins earlier to spend time with God.

Here's #2: Journaling. I have done this off-and-on for years, and although I usually get a lot out of it, I just seem to drop off after 3-5 days. Then, I start again 2 weeks later...then again 3 months later...then Michele has another baby, and I stop for a year! (In fact, come to think of it, that almost makes me want to stop journaling altogether! Yikes!) Maybe some of you are asking, "What's journaling, and why do it, anyway?" (Well, I think that would be a great subject for another blog entry.)

And for #3, I would like to blog more, during the 40 days of Lent. Sound strange? Here's my thought--I want to share what God is teaching me, and I want to hear what He is doing in your lives, too. This can be quite a season of refreshing for all of us, and I want to create the forum for us to edify & encourage one another. What are you learning? How are you growing? What's the hardest part? The most rewarding? You get the idea...

That's enough for now. I'd better be quiet so you can talk... (I'm going to go make a nice tall glass of Diet...water.)

Do You Observe Lent?

I've been in church most all my life, but I've never observed the season of Lent.

Not really sure why, but my family didn't talk about it. And my church didn't teach about it. And so I certainly didn't think much about it. That is...until recently.

First, a brief explanation: Lent, in some Christian denominations, is the forty-day-long season of fasting and prayer before Easter. The forty days represent the time Jesus spent in the desert, where according to the Bible he endured temptation by Satan. Different churches calculate the forty days differently. The purpose of Lent is the preparation of the believer—through prayer, penitence, sacrificial giving, and self-denial--for the annual commemoration during Holy Week of the Death and Resurrection of Jesus, which recalls the events linked to the Passion of Christ and culminates in Easter, the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

So, in other words, this is a season of self-denial for the purpose of reflection and eventually celebration. But I wonder, do any of you in the Bridge Family observe this "holiday?" I've heard the phrase, "I'm giving up such and such for lent," but I've never really taken the time to personalize a response from my heart to the Lord.

This year, I want to.

Mark Batterson, pastor of National Community Church in Washington D.C., describes the Lent observance (or for that matter, FASTING in general) as being a two-fold process: SUBTRACTION and ADDITION. The following is an excerpt from his blog (http://www.evotional.com/):

"What do you need to subtract from you life? It might be a bad habit or waste of time or something that is permissible but not beneficial. Last year I gave up television for forty days. This year I'm giving up soda and candy. I know that doesn't sound super spiritual, but if you knew how much I love vanilla coke and gummy bears... What do you need to add to your life? You can't just subtract something. You've got to add something to your spiritual routine. I'm going to add an hour to my day. How? I'm setting my alarm clock an hour earlier than I normally do. I want to give God more of my most precious resource: time. I'm believing that subtraction and addition will result in multiplication. "

As part of our 10-week challenge (which of course lasts longer than 40 days), I would invite you to join me in the observance of Lent. Spend some time praying about your response, and then go for it! And whatever you do, remember it is a two-fold process--subtraction and addition. To put it another way, we need both fasting and feasting!

I'll let you know what I decide--but in the meantime, I would love to hear from the rest of you.

P.S. -- The "official" start of Lent is Ash Wednesday, which is February 25th. (So you'd better hurry!)

Give Me 10 Weeks

This past Sunday, I issued a challenge to the Bridge Church family: Give me 10 weeks, and I'll promise you growth. Sounds easy huh? The thought originates in some real-life experience...some real-life weight loss experience, to be exact. Here's the story... (OK, just pretend that you care & keep reading!)

About 10 years ago, I needed to lose some weight. (Actually, I still do...but that's not the point here.) A health-conscious fitness-nut friend challenged me to devote 10 weeks to a dramatic, but reasonable, lifestyle change. He promised that if I would follow his instructions, I would see significant weight loss and improved overall fitness. I agreed. (I pretty much had to, because I was running out of clothes that fit...and I couldn't afford any new ones! Can I get a witness?)

The plan was simple:

1) No sugar (or soft drinks, candy bars, cookies, ice cream, or anything else that tasted sweet).

2) Exercise a minimum of 5 days/week, including both cardio and weight training. (I had never done either one.)

3) Make "better bad choices" (for example: pretzels instead of chips; carrot sticks instead of candy bars; diet drinks instead of regular; skim milk instead of whole; regular Cheerios instead of Honey Nut; need I go on?) And Numero Quatro... (This was the big one)

4) Keep a JOURNAL of it all! (every bite I ate, every mile I ran, every pound I shed, every notch in my belt...EVERYTHING!) He knew something that I didn't, but was about to learn: Journaling produces accountability, which is the key to discipline, which is the key to success.

So, I started right away. I was so desperate for change that I was ready for anything! So, I crossed my fingers, closed my eyes, and climbed on the scale to find out exactly where "ground zero" was. It was scary! But I was not to be deterred. Starting that day, I ate better, exercised more, journaled regularly, and felt more healthy. I was sure that the results would be great, and I couldn't wait to see how much weight I had lost in just 2 days!

But there was one more piece of advice that my "trainer-friend" shared: You can't get back on the scale for at least 4 weeks. What?!? Why couldn't I weigh after a few days, or even after a couple of weeks? Because my friend knew it would take time to see results--and he didn't want me to become discouraged by slow progress, and end up quitting in frustration. So I agreed (reluctantly).

Four (long) weeks later, I climbed on the scale and was shocked to realize I had lost 16 pounds! It was really working! Now that I had seen some results, I knew I could go the distance. I was ready for the long haul. Before long, people started to notice I was slimming down. Then my clothes started fitting better. Then I even started feeling stronger. Then I started posing in front of the mirror without my shirt on... (OK, I better stop there before you start having disturbing mental images. What's that? Too late? Sorry about that.)

The point is this: I was GROWING! (or in this case, shrinking--but you get the idea.) I believe the key to it all was the JOURNAL.

So, I started thinking... How many of us are frustrated by our lack of spiritual growth? We want to be spiritually "fit," but often seem to fall back "out of shape." We wish God felt closer to us. We feel lethargic at church. We wonder why our prayers aren't answered. We confess that the Bible seems dull, if we even try to read it at all. But if we could just STOP and LOOK at ourselves, we might see the true problem: SPIRITUAL LAZINESS.

Now, back to where we started, here's the challenge: Give me 10 weeks, and I'll promise you growth! I could give a list of simple steps to be followed (like the example above), but we're all at different levels in our spiritual maturity, and we all have different needs. Anyway, here's a few ideas:

1. Read the Bible for _____ minutes each day. (fill in the blank...but make sure it stretches you)
2. Pray for ____ minutes three times each day. (you eat 3 meals a day, right?)
3. Listen to a worship CD, or worship music from your ipod.
4. Turn off the TV 30 mins earlier at night, and spend some time reflecting on the day.
5. Try to memorize a verse of Scripture. (something that strengthens your faith)
6. Listen to a sermon from your favorite pastor while driving, instead of the radio.
7. Create a Top 10 List of the most urgent prayer needs (but don't include any needs of your own--only others!)

(I could go on and on making suggestions, but you need something that's personally tailored to your needs and "fitness level.")

And don't forget the most important part: KEEP A JOURNAL of it all. By keeping a record of your "exercises," you will be more likely to hold yourself accountable.

Thanks for taking the challenge. Let's see what God can do in your life--and in our church--in 10 exciting weeks!

Facts About Flipper's Family

I'm not exactly a marine biologist (in case you didn't know), but recently I learned some fascinating facts about dolphins. OK, in the spirit of full disclosure, I should tell you that my "research" consisted of listening while my 8-year-old daughter, Macy, read a library book to me for her homework. I digress...

Just listen to this stuff, and take from it whatever you will:

1. Dolphins are mammals. (Don't worry, it gets better.)

2. They live in the water. (OK, I'm just joking about this one!)

3. Once they give birth, the parents continue to nurture their young for life. In other words, they stay together as a family unit, and demonstrate many "human" characteristics regarding relationships.

4. Although they live exclusively in water, they require oxygen to survive. (Just seeing if you're still with me...) Therefore, they have to return to the surface regularly for air. This fact is very important, because it leads into the last one. Are you ready?

5. When a dolphin is injured, the other dolphins in it's school (or family) do something incredible: they gather underneath the wounded dolphin and lift it to the surface so it can breathe. Think about that! The dolphins instinctively know that they must join together, work together, lift together in order to help their fallen friend. I can't think of a better picture of what the church is supposed to be about.

And let's take it one step further. Although the healthy dolphins want to help the wounded one, not one of them can do it alone. It would be too hard for one dolphin to singlehandedly support the weight of another, no matter how "willing to help" he was. The burden is just too great for one to bear--or even two to bear. It takes the whole group. Does any of this sound biblical? You be the judge.

"We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not just please ourselves." (Romans 15:1)

"Consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." (Philippians 2:3-4)

Bear one another's burdens. Love your neighbor as yourself. I could go on and on, but you get the idea. God's desire is for us to love one another deeply--even sacrificially--so that His Glory may be revealed in us. This is what the church is supposed to be. One family. One body. One school of dolphins! So, when you are wounded, I will be here to help. And when I am wounded, thank you all in advance for lifting me up, and giving me some fresh air! I love you guys. Thanks, Flipper...

Thoughts on Fear and Friendship

The thought occurred to me today that fear is worse when experienced alone. It's true. Fear about your health problems. Fear about your financial struggles. Fear about your future plans. All three of these fears are real, and they are being experienced by some dear friends of mine at the present time. In each case, the fear is so real...it almost takes on a life of its own. Fear begins to overtake faith. It crowds out hope. It erodes peace. It triumphs over trust.

But think with me for a moment. Is fear as intimidating when shared with a friend?

Consider these terms: Loneliness. Isolation. Depression. Rejection. Discouragement. These words have a lot in common, don't they? Like birds of a feather, peas in a pod. Now, consider another list: Laughter. Warmth. Encouragement. Community. Acceptance. Sounds better, huh? When you think about it, these words are totally incompatible with the former list. Their worlds cannot coexist.

In other words: It's hard to be lonely when you're laughing. It hard to feel rejected when you're watching a game with the guys. It's hard to be depressed on the golf course (OK, well actually, that's not so unusual...) It's hard to be discouraged when your friends believe in you so stinking much!

Psalm 23:4 says, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil , for you are with me." That last phrase is the key. Why shouldn't I fear? Because You, O Lord, are with me. You are my Friend--a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Listen, for any child of God, the truth is you are never alone. That's a given. He is always with you...yes, even in the valley of death. But just in case His love feels too distant to make a difference, here's an idea: Call a friend. (yeah, like an earthly one!) Pour some coffee. Share your hurts. Open up a little. Let them love you, and you'll soon find out that fear has to flee, because true godly friendship wins every time.

Recommended Reading

What is God "calling" me to do?

For the past few weeks, the messages on Sundays have been focused on the WORK that we are supposed to do, as believers in Jesus. 1 Corinthians chapter 3 teaches that every person will one day stand before God to have his/her "work" judged. Verse 13 says, "his work will be shown for what it is," and verse 14 says, "it will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work." (Heavy stuff, huh?) One more thing: only if your work survives will you receive a reward.

So, the questions start rolling in like waves at the beach: What is my work? Am I doing it? Will my work survive the fire of God's judgment? Will I receive a reward? What if I'm not exactly sure? Can I know for certain that God is pleased with my work? The answer to the last question is YES! You CAN know what pleases the Lord. (Ephesians 5:10 says, "find out what pleases the Lord.")

So, let's take it one step further... Ephesians 4:1 says, "Live a life worthy of the calling you have received." Ask yourself an important question: "Do I have a CALLING?" You're thinking that stuff only applies to pastors and missionaries, right? Wrong. Every follower of Jesus is called to do something unique for Him. So what is your calling? Your purpose? Your job to do?

I encourage you to spend some time TODAY asking God these questions. Then, ask again tomorrow. And the next day. And the next. And keep asking, keep praying, keep searching...and God will begin to show you things. I promise He will, because He is a "rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." (Hebrews 11:6)

And for those of you who are interested in further study, I would like to recommend a few resources that have greatly inspired and challenged me. You can pick them up at Barnes & Noble, or order them online from Amazon.com. Here they are: Visioneering, by Andy Stanley; The Dream Giver, by Bruce Wilkinson; and What On Earth Am I Here For?, by Rick Warren. Any of these would be helpful on your journey. Enjoy the search!