Christmas....
As a child, I had a love/hate relationship with Christmas. It was always wonderful at Mema's house, but elsewhere it presented challenges within my mind. Growing up with divorced parents always caused me to desire that my kids would never have to face the conflicts that I felt.
As an adult, Christmas is always my favorite time of the year. Although, I am still prone to be a mixture of Scrooge and the Grinch if I am not careful. I am so blessed to have Sandy, the love of my life, help me celebrate Christmas the right way. I find the greatest pleasure simply watching as my family opens their gifts and shows their delight. Tonight I will spend some time in reflection and contemplation remembering the Christmas mornings when our kids were young and recounting their joy and appreciation for their gifts. I am truly grateful to God for each of my kids and their families. Tomorrow, when a number of the family arrives, we will be able to watch as the family opens gifts and I see the same level of delight in the eyes of the grandkids that we saw years ago in our kids.
As I think of the gifts that we share with our family, they are merely a token of the love that we have for each of them. As I think of the gifts for my wife, I realize that she is deserving of so much more than I could ever give to her. Outside of my salvation, she is the greatest gift that God has ever given to me.
Christmas Eve is a time of anticipation and joy as we await the dawn of Christmas, but this was not true on that first Christmas. The text for a recent sermon series, "The Spirit of Christmas", began with "The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined. (Isaiah 9:2)." The world that Jesus entered was dark, dreary, oppressed, and enslaved by sin. In all honesty, that same condition is true today. Our nation may dress up the holiday and make it a time of celebration and distraction, but the same heart condition of the first Christmas persists today. The ultimate Christmas gift is Jesus Himself! Without a personal relationship with Him, the day loses its true significance. With Jesus, the day is glorious as we remember the birth of Christ our Savior. Without Jesus, we could easily quote Scrooge and say "Christmas is a humbug."
Spend some time thanking God for the "unspeakable gift" of Jesus. In light of the gift of God we can truly appreciate all that Christmas really should be to us.
Christmas is a day to relish. The Savior came and brought light to a dark world. His light in our hearts brings salvation, joy, and purpose. Thank you Father for the gift of Your Son!
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Monday, September 22, 2014
Watch Your Step!
I have had several occasions in my life that should have taught me the importance attributed to the "watch your step" concept. Sadly, I sometimes forget the lessons that I thought I had painfully learned and I get the privilege of learning them afresh.
Once when I was in my pre-teen days, I was walking along a sidewalk without really paying attention to where I was going. I was unaware of utility work that was going on and I fell down the hole that had been opened to get to the pipes below the sidewalk. The result was that I took all of the skin off the back of my arm from the wrist to the elbow. Interestingly, my dad never considered suing the city, but he did teach me a lesson in the first aid he provided to me. After his treatment of peroxide, alcohol, merthiolate, and iodine my injury healed. I have often told him that it was afraid not to heal.
A little over a week ago, I again learned the importance of watching your step. While descending a ladder in the church auditorium, I thought I was at the bottom of the ladder and stepped off. Unfortunately, I was not at the bottom and this resulted in me losing my balance and falling against the wall. The end of this story is that I broke three ribs due to my own carelessness.
It is crucial for us to diligently watch our steps. The Bible tells us that God will direct the steps of those that look to Him for guidance, "The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way." (Psalms 37:23). None of us will follow the Lord by accident, it is a purposeful decision that requires daily dedication.
We must be perpetually alert to watching our step for there are many that would encourage us to go in destructive ways, "Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment:" (Exodus 23:2). Our steps will reveal our character much clearer than our words, "Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God." (III John 11).
Perhaps the greatest danger to our steps comes when we think that there is no one that will see us and we will not be discovered, "For at the window of my house I looked through my casement, And beheld among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding, Passing through the street near her corner; and he went the way to her house," (Proverbs 7:6-8). This chapter is devoted to the one who tries to satisfy his passion in secrecy, but it leads to his destruction.
We must watch our step because it impacts our own relationship with God. We must watch our step because our path does influence others. We must watch our step because our actions will either bring joy or pain to those that we love. We must watch our step because Jesus deserves our best and our total devotion.
"Watch Your Step!"
Once when I was in my pre-teen days, I was walking along a sidewalk without really paying attention to where I was going. I was unaware of utility work that was going on and I fell down the hole that had been opened to get to the pipes below the sidewalk. The result was that I took all of the skin off the back of my arm from the wrist to the elbow. Interestingly, my dad never considered suing the city, but he did teach me a lesson in the first aid he provided to me. After his treatment of peroxide, alcohol, merthiolate, and iodine my injury healed. I have often told him that it was afraid not to heal.
A little over a week ago, I again learned the importance of watching your step. While descending a ladder in the church auditorium, I thought I was at the bottom of the ladder and stepped off. Unfortunately, I was not at the bottom and this resulted in me losing my balance and falling against the wall. The end of this story is that I broke three ribs due to my own carelessness.
It is crucial for us to diligently watch our steps. The Bible tells us that God will direct the steps of those that look to Him for guidance, "The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way." (Psalms 37:23). None of us will follow the Lord by accident, it is a purposeful decision that requires daily dedication.
We must be perpetually alert to watching our step for there are many that would encourage us to go in destructive ways, "Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment:" (Exodus 23:2). Our steps will reveal our character much clearer than our words, "Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God." (III John 11).
Perhaps the greatest danger to our steps comes when we think that there is no one that will see us and we will not be discovered, "For at the window of my house I looked through my casement, And beheld among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding, Passing through the street near her corner; and he went the way to her house," (Proverbs 7:6-8). This chapter is devoted to the one who tries to satisfy his passion in secrecy, but it leads to his destruction.
We must watch our step because it impacts our own relationship with God. We must watch our step because our path does influence others. We must watch our step because our actions will either bring joy or pain to those that we love. We must watch our step because Jesus deserves our best and our total devotion.
"Watch Your Step!"
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Help Lord! I'm Leaking!
The past few days have led me to recall a great truth that I first learned in Bible College. Dr. Kenneth Dean, as he was teaching the second year Greek class, stated an intriguing truth about this familiar verse: "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;" (Ephesians 5:18). He said that the verb construction of this verse should be understood that being filled with the Spirit is on ongoing, continuous process.
I can't speak for anyone else, but I realize that if I am not being constantly filled with the Spirit, I will soon be empty and dry of God's presence and power. Scripture teaches us that we have the treasure of God contained in earthen vessels. Earthen vessels, at least mine, are often cracked and the only way to keep them filled is to continue pouring a fresh supply into them.
Why are our earthen vessels leaking? Sometimes it is the weights of life or the sin which so easily besets us, "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1-2). It could be the difficulties and tragedies of life that cause us to become distracted from our relationship with the Lord. We may even find ourselves so disappointed in others that we lose our joy and purpose through a time of despair. Perhaps we have been praying diligently for a certain thing, yet God did not answer our prayer in the way we desired. Regardless of the cause of our Spiritual seepage, we must remember that "......for the joy of the LORD is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10).
If I allow sin to gain a foothold in my life, I leak. If I doubt the promises of God, I leak. If I try to solve problems by myself without casting my cares upon the Lord, I leak. If I let the struggles and heartaches of life overcome my being, I leak.
Although, if I remember the source of my help and come to the Lord in brokenness and faith, He is my source of spiritual supply. Even though my earthen vessel is often cracked and leaking, His ability to fill me is more than adequate to overcome my shortcomings.
If you feel like you are leaking and growing dry in your relationship with Jesus. Join me in crying out "Help Lord! I'm leaking!"
I can't speak for anyone else, but I realize that if I am not being constantly filled with the Spirit, I will soon be empty and dry of God's presence and power. Scripture teaches us that we have the treasure of God contained in earthen vessels. Earthen vessels, at least mine, are often cracked and the only way to keep them filled is to continue pouring a fresh supply into them.
Why are our earthen vessels leaking? Sometimes it is the weights of life or the sin which so easily besets us, "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1-2). It could be the difficulties and tragedies of life that cause us to become distracted from our relationship with the Lord. We may even find ourselves so disappointed in others that we lose our joy and purpose through a time of despair. Perhaps we have been praying diligently for a certain thing, yet God did not answer our prayer in the way we desired. Regardless of the cause of our Spiritual seepage, we must remember that "......for the joy of the LORD is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10).
If I allow sin to gain a foothold in my life, I leak. If I doubt the promises of God, I leak. If I try to solve problems by myself without casting my cares upon the Lord, I leak. If I let the struggles and heartaches of life overcome my being, I leak.
Although, if I remember the source of my help and come to the Lord in brokenness and faith, He is my source of spiritual supply. Even though my earthen vessel is often cracked and leaking, His ability to fill me is more than adequate to overcome my shortcomings.
If you feel like you are leaking and growing dry in your relationship with Jesus. Join me in crying out "Help Lord! I'm leaking!"
Monday, July 21, 2014
Anybody Here Seen My Old Friend....Commitment?
I have been musing for some time about the current weaknesses in the "organized" church. One of the primary areas of apparent weakness in American Christianity seems to be in our level of true commitment.
I had an old song from my teen years come into my mind early this morning. The song, "Anybody Here Seen My Old Friend John", was written by Dick Holler and first recorded by Dion. While it was never one of my favorite songs, it still had a melody and message that was intriguing to many teen minds. The song was a reminder of people that were lost to the present, but their ideals were to live on.
As this tune played in my mind, I had the thought that we seem to have abandoned some very important qualities in recent days that need to be reclaimed. One of the first traits that came to mind was the concept of commitment. Human nature has always been, at best, flawed and in need of constant spiritual prodding, but the world of today seems to be particularly shallow when it comes to being committed. Marriages fail when one, or both, spouses no longer feel the need of being faithful to their mate and their vows. Many churches are struggling spiritually because the membership sees their involvement as being driven by convenience and personal preference.
God has gifted His people to be able to serve ably for the glory of the Lord and the benefit of others, " But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him..... Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular." (I Corinthians 12:18, 27). He enables us to do what we need to do for His Kingdom, therefore, the breakdown is not with God but it is within us.
The American church seems to want a religion of convenience that allows us to come and go as we please, live anyway we please, and never be challenged about things that would make us uncomfortable. I realize that there are a good number of vibrant, evangelistic Bible believing ministries, and I am thankful to God for the work they are doing for God. Although, I am greatly concerned with many of the "church growth" models that are more specifically designed to entertain the crowds rather that challenging them to follow Jesus with full devotion.
The Lord Jesus showed His commitment to us when He died upon the cross. This reality should motivate those of us that truly know Him as Savior to devotion, "Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." (Matthew 16.24). Too many "professing" believers have adopted a brand of spirituality that can be controlled by our personal whims and desires.
Jesus came to be our Savior. Praise the Lord for this great truth! Those that are serious about their faith see that Jesus is also Lord, and as Lord He is worthy of our commitment, " He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own? No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon." (Luke 16:10-13).
Anybody here seen my old friend commitment? I pray that God will enable me to model true commitment to my marriage, my family, my church, and my Savior. We need a band of people who will be touched by God to exhibit real commitment in a fickle age.
I had an old song from my teen years come into my mind early this morning. The song, "Anybody Here Seen My Old Friend John", was written by Dick Holler and first recorded by Dion. While it was never one of my favorite songs, it still had a melody and message that was intriguing to many teen minds. The song was a reminder of people that were lost to the present, but their ideals were to live on.
As this tune played in my mind, I had the thought that we seem to have abandoned some very important qualities in recent days that need to be reclaimed. One of the first traits that came to mind was the concept of commitment. Human nature has always been, at best, flawed and in need of constant spiritual prodding, but the world of today seems to be particularly shallow when it comes to being committed. Marriages fail when one, or both, spouses no longer feel the need of being faithful to their mate and their vows. Many churches are struggling spiritually because the membership sees their involvement as being driven by convenience and personal preference.
God has gifted His people to be able to serve ably for the glory of the Lord and the benefit of others, " But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him..... Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular." (I Corinthians 12:18, 27). He enables us to do what we need to do for His Kingdom, therefore, the breakdown is not with God but it is within us.
The American church seems to want a religion of convenience that allows us to come and go as we please, live anyway we please, and never be challenged about things that would make us uncomfortable. I realize that there are a good number of vibrant, evangelistic Bible believing ministries, and I am thankful to God for the work they are doing for God. Although, I am greatly concerned with many of the "church growth" models that are more specifically designed to entertain the crowds rather that challenging them to follow Jesus with full devotion.
The Lord Jesus showed His commitment to us when He died upon the cross. This reality should motivate those of us that truly know Him as Savior to devotion, "Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." (Matthew 16.24). Too many "professing" believers have adopted a brand of spirituality that can be controlled by our personal whims and desires.
Jesus came to be our Savior. Praise the Lord for this great truth! Those that are serious about their faith see that Jesus is also Lord, and as Lord He is worthy of our commitment, " He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own? No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon." (Luke 16:10-13).
Anybody here seen my old friend commitment? I pray that God will enable me to model true commitment to my marriage, my family, my church, and my Savior. We need a band of people who will be touched by God to exhibit real commitment in a fickle age.
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
The Roller-Coaster Called Life
Every life has those exhilarating high moments and those times when it seems the bottom has fallen out from under us. This seems particularly true in the life of a pastor. The pastor not only deals with the issues of his own life, but he is called upon to share and help with life's details of those that are within his care.
This past week has been a microcosm of the extremes that life presents to us. Last week my wife and I celebrated our forty-second anniversary of marriage. Sandy is a special gift of God's grace to me and I could not imagine having anyone else to be the one who completes me. We also had the joy of traveling to San Antonio, Texas to be present at our oldest son's "Change of Command" ceremony. It was a wonderful trip and allowed us to spend some quality time with his family. While we were gone, we received word that we had a death in our church family. Life seems to be a continuous mixture of laughter, joy, tears, and sorrow.
We find within ministry a constant call to be there with people we love in their intimate moments. Some need us to rejoice with them in their wonderful times. Others need advice and compassion to help them through times of sorrow,struggle, failing marriages, sicknesses, and even death.
Over the years, I have had a number of men that have come to me to inform me that they were considering ministry as a "vocation". My advice to them has always been that if they could do anything else, and feel that they were in the will of God, they should do something different. On the other hand, there is no calling that is more fulfilling than ministry when it is a calling from God.
Many years ago we made a trip to Six Flags over Georgia, and the "Scream Machine" was at that time the main roller-coaster at that site. I remember the anxiety as we were strapped into place and the cars began their ascent. There was a moment when I wondered if we could survive the trip, but after a few minutes we arrived safely at the point of departure. Since that time, I have ridden a number of roller-coasters that have made the "Scream Machine" seem tame, but they all are a good example of life.
When we begin to leave the loading area, we are unsure about what is ahead, "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." (I Corinthians 13:12). The only thing that we have to keep us secure is the realization that we are held secure by the promises of God's Word, the comfort of the Holy Spirit, and the Designer of our life, "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:2).
Praise the Lord, one day the roller-coaster ride will be over. Those who know Christ as Savior will be able to enjoy eternal happiness and bliss, "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away." (Revelation 21:4).
Life may have many unexpected drops and turns, but if we are held by the Spirit of God and the promises of God we shall arrive home safely. Be certain that your faith is in Christ as Savior rather than your own ability to weather the storms of life. Jesus alone has the ability to be the author and finisher of our faith!
This past week has been a microcosm of the extremes that life presents to us. Last week my wife and I celebrated our forty-second anniversary of marriage. Sandy is a special gift of God's grace to me and I could not imagine having anyone else to be the one who completes me. We also had the joy of traveling to San Antonio, Texas to be present at our oldest son's "Change of Command" ceremony. It was a wonderful trip and allowed us to spend some quality time with his family. While we were gone, we received word that we had a death in our church family. Life seems to be a continuous mixture of laughter, joy, tears, and sorrow.
We find within ministry a constant call to be there with people we love in their intimate moments. Some need us to rejoice with them in their wonderful times. Others need advice and compassion to help them through times of sorrow,struggle, failing marriages, sicknesses, and even death.
Over the years, I have had a number of men that have come to me to inform me that they were considering ministry as a "vocation". My advice to them has always been that if they could do anything else, and feel that they were in the will of God, they should do something different. On the other hand, there is no calling that is more fulfilling than ministry when it is a calling from God.
Many years ago we made a trip to Six Flags over Georgia, and the "Scream Machine" was at that time the main roller-coaster at that site. I remember the anxiety as we were strapped into place and the cars began their ascent. There was a moment when I wondered if we could survive the trip, but after a few minutes we arrived safely at the point of departure. Since that time, I have ridden a number of roller-coasters that have made the "Scream Machine" seem tame, but they all are a good example of life.
When we begin to leave the loading area, we are unsure about what is ahead, "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." (I Corinthians 13:12). The only thing that we have to keep us secure is the realization that we are held secure by the promises of God's Word, the comfort of the Holy Spirit, and the Designer of our life, "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:2).
Praise the Lord, one day the roller-coaster ride will be over. Those who know Christ as Savior will be able to enjoy eternal happiness and bliss, "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away." (Revelation 21:4).
Life may have many unexpected drops and turns, but if we are held by the Spirit of God and the promises of God we shall arrive home safely. Be certain that your faith is in Christ as Savior rather than your own ability to weather the storms of life. Jesus alone has the ability to be the author and finisher of our faith!
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
The Fred Wooten Suit
A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of preaching a revival service at a church in Dublin, GA. In the midst of that message, I remembered someone who had been a special person to me during my early days of ministry. I suppose that I am often prone to be nostalgic about the folks that God has used in my life, but we are all today a product of what we were molded into from the past. Let me share a poem I wrote many years ago about a suit that was given to me as a gift from a special individual.
The Fred Wooten Suit
Tis Easter morn and soon our crowd will be
tightly pressed
Tradition will require that most present
will be finely dressed
Eyes will turn and roam to see the splendid
forms of new attire
Though very few eyes will gaze upon my old
suit and admire
But this old friend, this faithful suit that
is mine
Has a history that will be dear through the
ages of time
He was a lumbering giant who walked upon one
foot and a memory
He lost the other while in a foreign land
serving his nations’ ministry
His voice was coarse, gravelly, and even
gruff
But hide the love within? Never that rough
His eyes often twinkled with mischievous
glee
And just as quick could turn and weep with
me
Though none of these were really his most
important part
The attribute that often moved me most was a
loving heart
He seemed to watch over me with the greatest
of care
Whatever I thought I needed, he often found
a way to share
Once a turkey, next a C.B. radio, and an
occasional loaf of bread
His care was so constant; I had to use care
when speaking with Fred
The turkey grew and was eaten, and the radio
broke
But another moment yet, the thoughts still
provoke
Twas a brown plaid suit hanging on the
clothing rail
I hesitated to look at it for it wasn’t even
on sale
I told him my suits were fine, it wouldn’t
hurt to wait
But he’d come to buy his preacher a suit, no
debate
I looked at this brown friend of mine and
grimaced at the price
He asked if I liked it, said I “something
cheaper would be nice”
“Didn’t come to save money” was his stern
reply
“Pick up the suit, that’s the one I’m going
to buy”
From that day forth this suit of mine had a
little extra part
For somewhere in it was a sliver of Fred
Wooten’s heart
He bought it for Easter Sunday of 1977
It’s still here and he’s gone on to Heaven
Now prone to unravel and often needing
repair
Of today’s fashions, it doesn’t seem to be
aware
Yet, each time I put it, on I pause to
meditate
How a simple piece of cloth has such love to
radiate
So today, please enjoy your new suits and dresses
and even boots
But my joy is even fuller when I’m wearing
my “Fred Wooten” suit
Tom Vann
I wish that I still owned that suit, but over the years it seemed to shrink (at least that's my story) and I could no longer wear it. Bro. Fred would never allow me to tell where I got the suit while he was alive, but with his family's permission I shared this poem the Easter after his death. We all should cherish the people who loved and supported us over the years, and I think it would be good if we could follow their example and invest into the lives of those that we can bless and help.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
I Love VBS!
I am approaching my fortieth VBS as a pastor, and it continues to be one of my favorite activities on the church calendar.
I attended several VBS programs as a child at Concord Baptist Church and Tenth Avenue Baptist Church. In all honesty, I can't say that I really enjoyed them. The missionary stories were good, but most of the schedule was a bit boring to me. The highlight of each day was the Kool-Aid and the butter cookies.
When I became a pastor, I determined that VBS would be much different and no child should ever go home complaining that they were bored. During the early years of my ministry, we wrote much of our own material and we designed a lot of action into the final program each evening. We had giants a few years, we even designed our own "Teenage Mutant Ninja Vegetables", and we almost always had someone dressed up as the Devil. Fortunately, we always saw the Devil soundly defeated on the last day of VBS. I still remember the year that the Devil and I had a boxing match. When I knocked him out, a little boy wearing cowboy boots got so excited that he left his seat and kicked the Devil in the ribs while he was on the ground. I wish more of us could hate the Devil that much. I will always be thankful for Hazel Brewer's labor to fashion and sew our costumes, along with all of our faithful workers that labored every day to put on the best event possible. I also remember with great thankfulness Jim Strong, Marty Snodgrass, and others who played the part of the giants and the Devil.
During my ministry at Rentz Baptist, I have been in awe at the faithful work of our folks who give their best to make VBS work. Sherri Knight, Leann Skipper, David Gay, and many others sacrifice their time and talent into this annual outreach program of the church. I love VBS because it gives us the opportunity to reach children and their families that we may not reach otherwise. I love VBS because it draws our people together to work for a common goal. I love VBS because it gives us the opportunity to fulfill our duties according to the Scripture "And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus."
(Luke 1:17; II Timothy 3:14-15)
I remember a preacher friend of mine telling me that he took his vacation every year during VBS so he wouldn't have to be bothered with it. I still believe that's a great waste of a good opportunity to impact the life of a child for Jesus.
I still love VBS!
I attended several VBS programs as a child at Concord Baptist Church and Tenth Avenue Baptist Church. In all honesty, I can't say that I really enjoyed them. The missionary stories were good, but most of the schedule was a bit boring to me. The highlight of each day was the Kool-Aid and the butter cookies.
When I became a pastor, I determined that VBS would be much different and no child should ever go home complaining that they were bored. During the early years of my ministry, we wrote much of our own material and we designed a lot of action into the final program each evening. We had giants a few years, we even designed our own "Teenage Mutant Ninja Vegetables", and we almost always had someone dressed up as the Devil. Fortunately, we always saw the Devil soundly defeated on the last day of VBS. I still remember the year that the Devil and I had a boxing match. When I knocked him out, a little boy wearing cowboy boots got so excited that he left his seat and kicked the Devil in the ribs while he was on the ground. I wish more of us could hate the Devil that much. I will always be thankful for Hazel Brewer's labor to fashion and sew our costumes, along with all of our faithful workers that labored every day to put on the best event possible. I also remember with great thankfulness Jim Strong, Marty Snodgrass, and others who played the part of the giants and the Devil.
During my ministry at Rentz Baptist, I have been in awe at the faithful work of our folks who give their best to make VBS work. Sherri Knight, Leann Skipper, David Gay, and many others sacrifice their time and talent into this annual outreach program of the church. I love VBS because it gives us the opportunity to reach children and their families that we may not reach otherwise. I love VBS because it draws our people together to work for a common goal. I love VBS because it gives us the opportunity to fulfill our duties according to the Scripture "And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus."
(Luke 1:17; II Timothy 3:14-15)
I remember a preacher friend of mine telling me that he took his vacation every year during VBS so he wouldn't have to be bothered with it. I still believe that's a great waste of a good opportunity to impact the life of a child for Jesus.
I still love VBS!
Friday, June 13, 2014
God Can Use Feet of Clay
This Sunday is Father's Day!
Every time I approach this day of recognition, I am filled with gratitude that God allowed me to be a father and I am so grateful for each member of my family. At the same time, I always wish that I could have been a better dad as my kids grew up.
Although, I am encouraged when I look at Scripture and see that God often used men who undoubtedly had feet of clay. King David has always been a conundrum of sorts to me. His life reflected the heights of total devotion to the Lord, and it also revealed the depths of failure when the Lord is not kept in proper focus. Yet, through it all God declared that David was a man after His own heart, "And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will. Of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:" (Acts 13:22-23). Moses is also an example of a great man of God who suffered moments of indignity and failure, yet there is no doubt that he was used mightily by the Lord.
Throughout my life, I have been blessed by the influence of men who helped to mold my life. My own father illustrated the necessity of dedicated hard work. My Granddaddy Vann showed that you can find humor (even if it's sarcastic) in almost every situation. My Granddaddy Daniels showed love and devotion even in the midst of personal struggles.
I am also thankful for those men that God used to influence my life in spiritual matters. Charles Faust was the faithful Sunday School teacher that taught my class, even when I was the only student present and encouraged me to trust Christ. Raymond Hancock, the pastor of Providence Baptist Church, was used by God to challenge me to surrender to God's will and make my life count for the Lord. God brought Daylon Moore to work with our Youth when I was an angry and confused young man. Mr. Moore became a mentor, teacher, and father figure at a crucial moment in my life. I will always be thankful for the investment he made in my life. Dr. Merle Huffmaster, one of my Bible college professors, was used by God to not only teach me Biblical truths, but he was also a role model for the appropriate pastorate. Jim Wade, who would become my father-in-law, was also a source of inspiration and served as a wonderful role model. I am so thankful that he welcomed me into his family and loved me as a son. He was perhaps one of the most consistent Christians that I ever had the privilege of knowing. His legacy lives on in our family.
In recent years, God also used a number of other men to help and encourage my life. Wayne Robertson befriended me when I was new to the state of Georgia and gave me a number of opportunities to serve the Lord in a broader way. Wayne Hamrick became a very special friend and example to my life. His passion for growing Sunday Schools was infectious and his devotion to God's Word, God's work, and God's people was unquestionable.
Some of the men that I have cited lived exemplary lives and others faced times of criticism, yet God used each of them. It encourages my heart to know that God can take every man and use him, if he is willing to surrender his life under the direction of the Holy Spirit. We may all realize that we have feet of clay, yet God is willing and able to use our earthen vessels for His glory "For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us." (II Corinthians 4:5-7). Praise the Lord!
Every time I approach this day of recognition, I am filled with gratitude that God allowed me to be a father and I am so grateful for each member of my family. At the same time, I always wish that I could have been a better dad as my kids grew up.
Although, I am encouraged when I look at Scripture and see that God often used men who undoubtedly had feet of clay. King David has always been a conundrum of sorts to me. His life reflected the heights of total devotion to the Lord, and it also revealed the depths of failure when the Lord is not kept in proper focus. Yet, through it all God declared that David was a man after His own heart, "And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will. Of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:" (Acts 13:22-23). Moses is also an example of a great man of God who suffered moments of indignity and failure, yet there is no doubt that he was used mightily by the Lord.
Throughout my life, I have been blessed by the influence of men who helped to mold my life. My own father illustrated the necessity of dedicated hard work. My Granddaddy Vann showed that you can find humor (even if it's sarcastic) in almost every situation. My Granddaddy Daniels showed love and devotion even in the midst of personal struggles.
I am also thankful for those men that God used to influence my life in spiritual matters. Charles Faust was the faithful Sunday School teacher that taught my class, even when I was the only student present and encouraged me to trust Christ. Raymond Hancock, the pastor of Providence Baptist Church, was used by God to challenge me to surrender to God's will and make my life count for the Lord. God brought Daylon Moore to work with our Youth when I was an angry and confused young man. Mr. Moore became a mentor, teacher, and father figure at a crucial moment in my life. I will always be thankful for the investment he made in my life. Dr. Merle Huffmaster, one of my Bible college professors, was used by God to not only teach me Biblical truths, but he was also a role model for the appropriate pastorate. Jim Wade, who would become my father-in-law, was also a source of inspiration and served as a wonderful role model. I am so thankful that he welcomed me into his family and loved me as a son. He was perhaps one of the most consistent Christians that I ever had the privilege of knowing. His legacy lives on in our family.
In recent years, God also used a number of other men to help and encourage my life. Wayne Robertson befriended me when I was new to the state of Georgia and gave me a number of opportunities to serve the Lord in a broader way. Wayne Hamrick became a very special friend and example to my life. His passion for growing Sunday Schools was infectious and his devotion to God's Word, God's work, and God's people was unquestionable.
Some of the men that I have cited lived exemplary lives and others faced times of criticism, yet God used each of them. It encourages my heart to know that God can take every man and use him, if he is willing to surrender his life under the direction of the Holy Spirit. We may all realize that we have feet of clay, yet God is willing and able to use our earthen vessels for His glory "For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us." (II Corinthians 4:5-7). Praise the Lord!
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
If I Had Wings
Have you ever had those moments when you felt like the pressures of life were so great that you would like to simply fly away and find some peace and solitude? I think that most of us, if we are honest, would have to admit that there have been times when we felt overwhelmed and under-appreciated.
David, the sweet Psalmist of Israel, shared his innermost emotional struggles in many of his psalms. He reveals to us that frustration and despair are not foreign things to the people of God, "Give ear to my prayer, O God; and hide not thyself from my supplication. Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise; Because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked: for they cast iniquity upon me, and in wrath they hate me. My heart is sore pained within me: and the terrors of death are fallen upon me. Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me. And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest. Lo, then would I wander far off, and remain in the wilderness. Selah." (Psalm 55:1-7). We sometimes set ourselves up for spiritual and emotional failure when we assume that dedicated Christians always live in peace and security. There will be times in all of our lives that we would long to simply escape the rat race and warfare of daily existence.
Jesus never promised that life would always be easy. In fact, He often directed the disciples to launch out in their boat when He knew that a storm would come. His presence in the storm is that which should give us Divine peace. Life will never be easy on this side of glory, but His constant companionship should carry us through the moments of worry and despair. Our existence, at present, will encounter many storms. In fact, I have heard it said that we are either currently in a storm, or we have just emerged from a storm, or we are preparing for the next storm. The promise of Jesus that He would never leave us should at least give us hope and comfort.
Why do we face trouble? Sometimes our difficulties are the result of our own foolish or sinful choices. God will always forgive our sins when we come to Him in repentance, but we may still have to suffer the consequences of our choices. Sometimes it is the actions of others that will cause us grief. Sometimes we must simply see that we are part of a fallen race that suffers the consequences of our sinful nature.
Sometimes our present suffering will be a mystery to us until either God reveals His plan, or we enter Heaven's glory. Regardless of the reasons for our struggles, we can be assured that God loves those that are His, and He has a purpose for all He allows in our lives.
I must confess that I am prone to allow a level of despair to sometimes overwhelm me, but I am glad that God is faithful even when I am fearful. I like the way David ends the previously cited psalm, "Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. But thou, O God, shalt bring them down into the pit of destruction: bloody and deceitful men shall not live out half their days; but I will trust in thee." (Psalm 55:22-23).
God does not promise to remove the difficulties that make us want to fly away, but He does promise to sustain us in the midst of our trials. There is coming a day when there will be no more tears, but until then we have the presence of Jesus to help us through the times of joy and despondency.
Thank you Jesus!
David, the sweet Psalmist of Israel, shared his innermost emotional struggles in many of his psalms. He reveals to us that frustration and despair are not foreign things to the people of God, "Give ear to my prayer, O God; and hide not thyself from my supplication. Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise; Because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked: for they cast iniquity upon me, and in wrath they hate me. My heart is sore pained within me: and the terrors of death are fallen upon me. Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me. And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest. Lo, then would I wander far off, and remain in the wilderness. Selah." (Psalm 55:1-7). We sometimes set ourselves up for spiritual and emotional failure when we assume that dedicated Christians always live in peace and security. There will be times in all of our lives that we would long to simply escape the rat race and warfare of daily existence.
Jesus never promised that life would always be easy. In fact, He often directed the disciples to launch out in their boat when He knew that a storm would come. His presence in the storm is that which should give us Divine peace. Life will never be easy on this side of glory, but His constant companionship should carry us through the moments of worry and despair. Our existence, at present, will encounter many storms. In fact, I have heard it said that we are either currently in a storm, or we have just emerged from a storm, or we are preparing for the next storm. The promise of Jesus that He would never leave us should at least give us hope and comfort.
Why do we face trouble? Sometimes our difficulties are the result of our own foolish or sinful choices. God will always forgive our sins when we come to Him in repentance, but we may still have to suffer the consequences of our choices. Sometimes it is the actions of others that will cause us grief. Sometimes we must simply see that we are part of a fallen race that suffers the consequences of our sinful nature.
Sometimes our present suffering will be a mystery to us until either God reveals His plan, or we enter Heaven's glory. Regardless of the reasons for our struggles, we can be assured that God loves those that are His, and He has a purpose for all He allows in our lives.
I must confess that I am prone to allow a level of despair to sometimes overwhelm me, but I am glad that God is faithful even when I am fearful. I like the way David ends the previously cited psalm, "Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. But thou, O God, shalt bring them down into the pit of destruction: bloody and deceitful men shall not live out half their days; but I will trust in thee." (Psalm 55:22-23).
God does not promise to remove the difficulties that make us want to fly away, but He does promise to sustain us in the midst of our trials. There is coming a day when there will be no more tears, but until then we have the presence of Jesus to help us through the times of joy and despondency.
Thank you Jesus!
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
God's Gift of Uncertainty
Once again, during this past week, a professing believer in Christ made the decision to end his life. There were many factors in play that led him to this fateful decision, but I found myself again wondering if I could ever fall into such a state of despair that I felt this was a valid choice. One thing I have concluded in this life is that those who loudly proclaim that they would never do a particular thing are often the very ones who are prone to act upon that which they decry.
When I was a young man and preacher, I often felt that I could rival the Oracle of Delphi with my astute knowledge and understanding. As I have grown older, I realize just how little I really grasp about the wisdom and purposes of God as He works in my life. I truly believe that God is being gracious to us when He does not reveal the entire future to us. Had God shown me all that would come to pass, I might have been tempted to overlook the moments of true joy, blessing, and happiness. I may have only focused upon the times of struggle and heartache that would exist in my pathway, and instead of following God in daily faith, I may have been tempted to give up on God's best for me. I have found it to be true that blessings are often born out of the ashes of difficulty and despair.
At no time does God promise an easy journey through life, nor does He reveal all of the details of what the future will bring. In fact, Scripture tells us that at present we cannot see the present or future with total clarity, "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." (I Corinthians 13:12). We will probably never see the whole picture of life until we come face to face with the Lord Jesus. The Bible also reveals to us that God provides just enough light for our path to keep us progressing, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Psalms 119:105). God provides just enough light to reveal how to take the next step in our pilgrimage of faith. We should never become frustrated that God does not show us more of the future, rather we should trust His wisdom in leading us in a way that does not cause us to abandon our purpose for living.
This coming weekend it will be a joy to get together with some old and dear friends. Over the years, we have all had our share of joy and desperation, but God has been faithful and He has never led us astray. The times we find ourselves in the wilderness of the world and the flesh are those times when we discounted the light for our path and followed our own understanding.
I am truly thankful that I cannot see all of the future ahead of me. God gives us a wonderful gift when He leaves our future uncertain. His promises for eternity are secure and glorious, but the full details that fill our existence between now and eternity are blessedly clouded. The very fact that we don't know the future should drive us to trust the Savior who sees all from the beginning to the end. When I find despair overwhelming my life, I need to be reminded that God has not deserted me. In joy, health, prosperity, sadness, sickness, deprivation, and despair I can still trust God. My uncertainty does not mean that God is uncertain about His plan and purpose.
When I was a young man and preacher, I often felt that I could rival the Oracle of Delphi with my astute knowledge and understanding. As I have grown older, I realize just how little I really grasp about the wisdom and purposes of God as He works in my life. I truly believe that God is being gracious to us when He does not reveal the entire future to us. Had God shown me all that would come to pass, I might have been tempted to overlook the moments of true joy, blessing, and happiness. I may have only focused upon the times of struggle and heartache that would exist in my pathway, and instead of following God in daily faith, I may have been tempted to give up on God's best for me. I have found it to be true that blessings are often born out of the ashes of difficulty and despair.
At no time does God promise an easy journey through life, nor does He reveal all of the details of what the future will bring. In fact, Scripture tells us that at present we cannot see the present or future with total clarity, "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." (I Corinthians 13:12). We will probably never see the whole picture of life until we come face to face with the Lord Jesus. The Bible also reveals to us that God provides just enough light for our path to keep us progressing, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Psalms 119:105). God provides just enough light to reveal how to take the next step in our pilgrimage of faith. We should never become frustrated that God does not show us more of the future, rather we should trust His wisdom in leading us in a way that does not cause us to abandon our purpose for living.
This coming weekend it will be a joy to get together with some old and dear friends. Over the years, we have all had our share of joy and desperation, but God has been faithful and He has never led us astray. The times we find ourselves in the wilderness of the world and the flesh are those times when we discounted the light for our path and followed our own understanding.
I am truly thankful that I cannot see all of the future ahead of me. God gives us a wonderful gift when He leaves our future uncertain. His promises for eternity are secure and glorious, but the full details that fill our existence between now and eternity are blessedly clouded. The very fact that we don't know the future should drive us to trust the Savior who sees all from the beginning to the end. When I find despair overwhelming my life, I need to be reminded that God has not deserted me. In joy, health, prosperity, sadness, sickness, deprivation, and despair I can still trust God. My uncertainty does not mean that God is uncertain about His plan and purpose.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Rite of Passage?
This is the season when "Pomp and Circumstance" is a common musical presentation as a host of robed individuals enter for the purpose of receiving a diploma. This time is often considered a "rite of passage". While it is true that graduates will be entering a new phase of their life, they are often surprised to find that the challenges ahead are often more daunting than the issues that they previously faced.
It seems like just yesterday that I graduated from Brandon High School in 1970. I had planned to skip the entire procedure, but on this one occasion my mom was adamant that I participate and even ordered my graduation gown without my knowledge. I am glad that she insisted since this moment began the process of reuniting a relationship with my dad. We had not spoken for a number of years, but he came to see me graduate. High School for me was a necessary step to get me to the next phase of life, but I certainly did not go forward with a true grasp of life.
Graduation from Providence Christian College in 1975 and subsequent graduation from Bethany Seminary were much more meaningful events, but even in these accomplishments I realized that the "rite of passage" from these institutions had not given me all I need. I have come to the conclusion that education, although it is very important, merely teaches us how to learn. Whoever has learned how to learn can grasp whatever is necessary to master in life.
During my college days, I observed that the students who thought they knew the most were the freshmen. Each year these same students seem to get a little dumber until they realized in their senior year how truly ill equipped they were to face the challenges ahead. I still remember at the beginning of a semester of "Systematic Theology", when a new student was in the class and was trying to take the professor to task, suddenly, he looked at his schedule and realized he was in the wrong class. He had been assigned to "Basic Bible Doctrines", but he thought he had all of the answers.
This year, if you or a loved one, celebrates a graduation, then I congratulate you. Although, you should keep in mind that you have merely finished a phase, you have not arrived. All of life is a learning process and we will not master life, we will simply finish our course. The Apostle Paul says it well, "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you." (Philippians 3:13-15). Our goal should be to daily pick up our cross and follow Jesus until our life in the flesh is complete.
Keep on pressing toward the mark!
It seems like just yesterday that I graduated from Brandon High School in 1970. I had planned to skip the entire procedure, but on this one occasion my mom was adamant that I participate and even ordered my graduation gown without my knowledge. I am glad that she insisted since this moment began the process of reuniting a relationship with my dad. We had not spoken for a number of years, but he came to see me graduate. High School for me was a necessary step to get me to the next phase of life, but I certainly did not go forward with a true grasp of life.
Graduation from Providence Christian College in 1975 and subsequent graduation from Bethany Seminary were much more meaningful events, but even in these accomplishments I realized that the "rite of passage" from these institutions had not given me all I need. I have come to the conclusion that education, although it is very important, merely teaches us how to learn. Whoever has learned how to learn can grasp whatever is necessary to master in life.
During my college days, I observed that the students who thought they knew the most were the freshmen. Each year these same students seem to get a little dumber until they realized in their senior year how truly ill equipped they were to face the challenges ahead. I still remember at the beginning of a semester of "Systematic Theology", when a new student was in the class and was trying to take the professor to task, suddenly, he looked at his schedule and realized he was in the wrong class. He had been assigned to "Basic Bible Doctrines", but he thought he had all of the answers.
This year, if you or a loved one, celebrates a graduation, then I congratulate you. Although, you should keep in mind that you have merely finished a phase, you have not arrived. All of life is a learning process and we will not master life, we will simply finish our course. The Apostle Paul says it well, "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you." (Philippians 3:13-15). Our goal should be to daily pick up our cross and follow Jesus until our life in the flesh is complete.
Keep on pressing toward the mark!
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Organized Chaos
No one should ever consider themselves to be a master parliamentarian until they have successfully moderated several years of church business meetings. Almost every church can tell nightmarish stories about business meetings that got out of control. I once heard a story about a particular business meeting that shows the plight of many churches. The pastor in this church recommended that they purchase a new chandelier for the auditorium. Immediately, one of the influential members arose and stated; "Pastor, I am opposed to buying a new chandelier for the church, and I have several good reasons for my opposition. First, no one knows how to spell it. Secondly, I don't know of anyone that can play it. Lastly, what we need in here is more light!"
In thirty-nine years of being a pastor, I have been blessed with churches that have been largely supportive and easy to lead. Yet, like most pastors, I could often equate my daily activities to something akin to herding cats. We are too prone to look at life and our surroundings from our personal eyes of experience and preference rather than seeking that which is best for all as we serve the Lord and try to reach the lost for Christ. I would not want to pastor a church where the membership was all blended into a bland state of sameness. God created each of us with unique abilities and characteristics that with proper use can bless the entire body of believers within the church.
The fact that we are unique personalities carries some inherent dangers that we should consider. We must never allow our pride and self-will to drive us to seek preeminence, "I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church." (III John 9-10). Our way may be a good way, but it may not be the only way.
We are better off when we don't try to play God in the lives of others. Our forbearance allows God to provide His leadership rather than stirring up bitterness, "I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." (Ephesians 4:1-3). We must also keep in mind that God made us different by His design and we should relish our customized gifts and callings, "But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.... For the body is not one member, but many. That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular." (I Corinthians 12:11-14, 25-27).
Sadly, Satan never has to directly attack some churches because they do a very effective job of neutralizing themselves from God's cause. Perhaps it's time for all of us to spend more time asking God for His leadership rather than getting on our soap boxes to declare the superiority of our preferences. Perhaps we need a revival of putting the other brother first, instead of demanding that we get our perceived "fair share".
We are in a great spiritual war! We can't win in our ability. Perhaps we need to learn from the example of Israel as they faced their foe, "O our God, wilt thou not judge them? for we have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee. And all Judah stood before the LORD, with their little ones, their wives, and their children." (II Chronicles 20:12-13)
I love the local church. I love all of the colorful characters that make up this God ordained organism. Organized chaos will always be a part of the local church until Jesus comes, but wouldn't it be wonderful if we all had the ultimate desire to please the Lord first and foremost.
In thirty-nine years of being a pastor, I have been blessed with churches that have been largely supportive and easy to lead. Yet, like most pastors, I could often equate my daily activities to something akin to herding cats. We are too prone to look at life and our surroundings from our personal eyes of experience and preference rather than seeking that which is best for all as we serve the Lord and try to reach the lost for Christ. I would not want to pastor a church where the membership was all blended into a bland state of sameness. God created each of us with unique abilities and characteristics that with proper use can bless the entire body of believers within the church.
The fact that we are unique personalities carries some inherent dangers that we should consider. We must never allow our pride and self-will to drive us to seek preeminence, "I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church." (III John 9-10). Our way may be a good way, but it may not be the only way.
We are better off when we don't try to play God in the lives of others. Our forbearance allows God to provide His leadership rather than stirring up bitterness, "I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." (Ephesians 4:1-3). We must also keep in mind that God made us different by His design and we should relish our customized gifts and callings, "But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.... For the body is not one member, but many. That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular." (I Corinthians 12:11-14, 25-27).
Sadly, Satan never has to directly attack some churches because they do a very effective job of neutralizing themselves from God's cause. Perhaps it's time for all of us to spend more time asking God for His leadership rather than getting on our soap boxes to declare the superiority of our preferences. Perhaps we need a revival of putting the other brother first, instead of demanding that we get our perceived "fair share".
We are in a great spiritual war! We can't win in our ability. Perhaps we need to learn from the example of Israel as they faced their foe, "O our God, wilt thou not judge them? for we have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee. And all Judah stood before the LORD, with their little ones, their wives, and their children." (II Chronicles 20:12-13)
I love the local church. I love all of the colorful characters that make up this God ordained organism. Organized chaos will always be a part of the local church until Jesus comes, but wouldn't it be wonderful if we all had the ultimate desire to please the Lord first and foremost.
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
An Homage to Motherhood
This coming Sunday is Mother's Day!
I trust that every husband has some kind of plans to show special attention to their wives, and every wise person should endeavor to show honor to their moms in some appropriate way. Personally, I really like to celebrate Mother's Day. Mothers are often the unsung heroes within the home and are best designed by God to be the heart and compassion of the family.
There are some rare occasions where mothers are a bane rather than a blessing, "Forty and two years old was Ahaziah when he began to reign, and he reigned one year in Jerusalem. His mother's name also was Athaliah the daughter of Omri. He also walked in the ways of the house of Ahab: for his mother was his counseller to do wickedly. (II Chron.22:2-3)". Any mother who would lead her children to do wickedly is a blight on her family specifically and on society at large. Thank God, these are the exceptions rather than the rule.
I have been blessed in my life to be influenced by several women that have been wonderful examples of inspiration. My life is richer because of the impact of these special ladies.
Jennie Daniels, my grandmother, was the first lady in my memory that left an impression on my life. My earliest childhood memories go back to the time that I lived with my grandparents after the divorce of my mother and father. "Mema" was an interesting personality. Her life had been hard and it seemed to me that I was one of the main causes for joy in her life. She could love and hate with total passion, but her love for me was without question. Every two weeks she would receive a check from my dad for child support, but she refused to use it for family needs. Instead, she used it to buy savings bonds and she would later use this money to buy my school clothes all the way through High School. Some of the happiest moments of my childhood were spent with Mema and Grandaddy.
Jessie Fernandez, my mother, was also used by God to help mold my character as I grew into manhood. She also had a challenging life with much of the challenges coming from poor life choices. I went to live with her and her new husband when I started school. The home environment was horrible, due largely to the actions and addictions of my step-father. Through it all, I knew that my mother loved me and was doing the best she could to provide for me and protect me from the situation that we all faced. She taught me by example the importance of doing your duty, even when it's difficult.
Shirley Cathey, my mother-in-law, also has been one that God has used to impact my life in a righteous way. When Sandy and I began to date, I was able to see first-hand the kind of home that should be the norm for those who sincerely follow Jesus. She has always shown me respect, acceptance, and support even at times when I probably was not deserving. I continue to be blessed by the knowledge that she prays for us, loves us, and supports us as as we serve the Lord.
Sandy Wade Vann, my wife, has truly been the best example of Godly motherhood that I have personally seen in my lifetime. She has epitomized the ideal for a mother that I see In Scripture, "My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck. When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee. For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life: (Prov.6:20-23); The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him. What, my son? and what, the son of my womb? and what, the son of my vows? Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings. It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink: Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted. (Prov.31:1-5)" I have seen the unconditional love that she has for our children and their families. I have experienced her selflessness when it comes to the welfare of our family. I have observed the prayers that she offers to God and her passion to see our family live Godly lives and be dedicated to their faith as they follow Jesus. I hope that my children will comprehend in some way the love that she has for them. Sandy is the model that I often use as I encourage other women to be the right kind of influence in their homes.
If God has blessed you with a good mother then make this Sunday a special day of recognition. If you have been impacted by women with genuine faith, be thankful to God for this blessing and let them know, if possible, how special they are to you.
I trust that every husband has some kind of plans to show special attention to their wives, and every wise person should endeavor to show honor to their moms in some appropriate way. Personally, I really like to celebrate Mother's Day. Mothers are often the unsung heroes within the home and are best designed by God to be the heart and compassion of the family.
There are some rare occasions where mothers are a bane rather than a blessing, "Forty and two years old was Ahaziah when he began to reign, and he reigned one year in Jerusalem. His mother's name also was Athaliah the daughter of Omri. He also walked in the ways of the house of Ahab: for his mother was his counseller to do wickedly. (II Chron.22:2-3)". Any mother who would lead her children to do wickedly is a blight on her family specifically and on society at large. Thank God, these are the exceptions rather than the rule.
I have been blessed in my life to be influenced by several women that have been wonderful examples of inspiration. My life is richer because of the impact of these special ladies.
Jennie Daniels, my grandmother, was the first lady in my memory that left an impression on my life. My earliest childhood memories go back to the time that I lived with my grandparents after the divorce of my mother and father. "Mema" was an interesting personality. Her life had been hard and it seemed to me that I was one of the main causes for joy in her life. She could love and hate with total passion, but her love for me was without question. Every two weeks she would receive a check from my dad for child support, but she refused to use it for family needs. Instead, she used it to buy savings bonds and she would later use this money to buy my school clothes all the way through High School. Some of the happiest moments of my childhood were spent with Mema and Grandaddy.
Jessie Fernandez, my mother, was also used by God to help mold my character as I grew into manhood. She also had a challenging life with much of the challenges coming from poor life choices. I went to live with her and her new husband when I started school. The home environment was horrible, due largely to the actions and addictions of my step-father. Through it all, I knew that my mother loved me and was doing the best she could to provide for me and protect me from the situation that we all faced. She taught me by example the importance of doing your duty, even when it's difficult.
Shirley Cathey, my mother-in-law, also has been one that God has used to impact my life in a righteous way. When Sandy and I began to date, I was able to see first-hand the kind of home that should be the norm for those who sincerely follow Jesus. She has always shown me respect, acceptance, and support even at times when I probably was not deserving. I continue to be blessed by the knowledge that she prays for us, loves us, and supports us as as we serve the Lord.
Sandy Wade Vann, my wife, has truly been the best example of Godly motherhood that I have personally seen in my lifetime. She has epitomized the ideal for a mother that I see In Scripture, "My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck. When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee. For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life: (Prov.6:20-23); The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him. What, my son? and what, the son of my womb? and what, the son of my vows? Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings. It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink: Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted. (Prov.31:1-5)" I have seen the unconditional love that she has for our children and their families. I have experienced her selflessness when it comes to the welfare of our family. I have observed the prayers that she offers to God and her passion to see our family live Godly lives and be dedicated to their faith as they follow Jesus. I hope that my children will comprehend in some way the love that she has for them. Sandy is the model that I often use as I encourage other women to be the right kind of influence in their homes.
If God has blessed you with a good mother then make this Sunday a special day of recognition. If you have been impacted by women with genuine faith, be thankful to God for this blessing and let them know, if possible, how special they are to you.
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
A Matter of Perspective
Many years ago, while I was Pastor of Bible Baptist Church in Shady Hills, I learned a very valuable lesson in perspective. We had a very large pine tree in the back of our property that was perilously close to our football field. When the tree was cut down the trunk of the tree was carried away by someone who had a use for some pine wood. The stump and limbs were left behind for us to dispose. Our area of central Florida had been experiencing a drought and the ground was extremely dry.
After a number of weeks, the stump and the limbs had not been removed and I became impatient. One afternoon I decided to take matters into my own hands. I decided that I could get rid of the limbs and stump at one time by burning them. I piled the limbs on top of the stump and set fire to the pine needles on the limbs. The fire spread rapidly through the pile of brush and soon I had flames that were ascending at least one hundred feet, and then the grass around the pile ignited. At that moment, I realized that I was in a precarious position.
I was at the back of a five acre property with no water and only had a shovel to contend with a raging fire that was rapidly turning into a brush fire that was spreading toward a wooded area next door. While frantically trying to beat out the spreading fire I saw two girls near our classrooms. I began to yell to Kim and Melanie for "Water! Need Water!". I was relieved to see them run toward the office, and I was confident that help was on the way. I continue to run around the raging inferno with my shovel trying to beat back the fire from the dry grass and brush, but I knew help was coming. Suddenly I heard the voice of a little girl saying "Here, preacher", and I turned to see them standing there smiling holding a styrofoam cup of water for their thirsty pastor.
Fortunately, I was able to stop the fire before it got to the wooded area, but I learned a great lesson about perspective that day. They thought they were doing exactly what I wanted, but it wasn't what I thought I needed at the moment.
How often do we miss God's perspective and plan due to our lack of spiritual perspective? Moses saw a burning bush and thought it to be an oddity for examination, but God spoke from that fire. Samuel saw a mere shepherd lad, but God saw David as the future king of Israel. The world saw a motley crew of fishermen and other misfits, but Jesus called these men to follow Him and they became the Apostles. Too often we are prone to trust our own reasoning rather than the leadership of the Holy Spirit. The Bible reveals the folly of trusting our own insights, "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. (I Cor.13:12), The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jer.17:9)"
At best, we can not see the way ahead of us clearly. At worst, our hearts can easily deceive us and lead us astray. We need to be constantly influenced by the truths of God's Word coupled with the leadership of the Holy Spirit if we are to walk in wisdom.
We can not expect a lost world to grasp the plans and purposes of God. It is our duty to walk in wisdom in the midst of the world as we share the Gospel. To do that well, we need God's perspective. May God help us to put on the mind of Christ!
After a number of weeks, the stump and the limbs had not been removed and I became impatient. One afternoon I decided to take matters into my own hands. I decided that I could get rid of the limbs and stump at one time by burning them. I piled the limbs on top of the stump and set fire to the pine needles on the limbs. The fire spread rapidly through the pile of brush and soon I had flames that were ascending at least one hundred feet, and then the grass around the pile ignited. At that moment, I realized that I was in a precarious position.
I was at the back of a five acre property with no water and only had a shovel to contend with a raging fire that was rapidly turning into a brush fire that was spreading toward a wooded area next door. While frantically trying to beat out the spreading fire I saw two girls near our classrooms. I began to yell to Kim and Melanie for "Water! Need Water!". I was relieved to see them run toward the office, and I was confident that help was on the way. I continue to run around the raging inferno with my shovel trying to beat back the fire from the dry grass and brush, but I knew help was coming. Suddenly I heard the voice of a little girl saying "Here, preacher", and I turned to see them standing there smiling holding a styrofoam cup of water for their thirsty pastor.
Fortunately, I was able to stop the fire before it got to the wooded area, but I learned a great lesson about perspective that day. They thought they were doing exactly what I wanted, but it wasn't what I thought I needed at the moment.
How often do we miss God's perspective and plan due to our lack of spiritual perspective? Moses saw a burning bush and thought it to be an oddity for examination, but God spoke from that fire. Samuel saw a mere shepherd lad, but God saw David as the future king of Israel. The world saw a motley crew of fishermen and other misfits, but Jesus called these men to follow Him and they became the Apostles. Too often we are prone to trust our own reasoning rather than the leadership of the Holy Spirit. The Bible reveals the folly of trusting our own insights, "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. (I Cor.13:12), The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jer.17:9)"
At best, we can not see the way ahead of us clearly. At worst, our hearts can easily deceive us and lead us astray. We need to be constantly influenced by the truths of God's Word coupled with the leadership of the Holy Spirit if we are to walk in wisdom.
We can not expect a lost world to grasp the plans and purposes of God. It is our duty to walk in wisdom in the midst of the world as we share the Gospel. To do that well, we need God's perspective. May God help us to put on the mind of Christ!
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Why Is Change So Difficult?
"Change is as inexorable as time, yet nothing meets with more resistance." - Benjamin Disraeli”
We live in a changing world, but most of us resist and even fight against change. Unfortunately, the majority only want change if it will personally benefit them.
There are some things that are unchangeable. The veracity and the authority of Scripture should never be considered as a subject which is open to our whims and opinions. God is clearly seen as the One who is changeless throughout eternity. Truth is true whether the opinions of the majority would discount it, and lies will be deceptive regardless of the trappings that Satan, religion, and mankind would embellish them.
Change is a painful topic for many of us. Perhaps the local church is one the best examples of a microcosm that resists change with fierceness and tenacity. Many of our churches saw their greatest time of effectiveness during the decades between 1950 through 1980, and we continue trying to reach the world of 2014 with the methods that worked well in the past. While we must hold with conviction our Biblical foundations, we must realize that we must be open to some variation in methodology to reach current and future generations.
One example of effective change is our annual Vacation Bible School. When I was a child, VBS consisted of pledges, missionary stories, and snacks comprised of butter cookies and red Kool-Aid. Today, we use an all-out program to capture the attention and engender enthusiasm within the kids that attend. All of this is done so that we can have the opportunity to share the Gospel with those who may not hear it otherwise. It's not the way our grandparents did it, but it works. We can change the methodology without sacrificing doctrinal integrity.
Churches across America are dying and they refuse to realize it. Perhaps the main culprit is the fact that we are too often focused on our own preferences, traditions, and tastes. We are happy to see people come to faith in Christ as long as they adopt our way of doing things.
We need a revival that will lead us to see the lost as the Apostle Paul saw them, "For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me. What is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel. For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you." (I Cor.9:16-23).
Sadly, too many of us have adopted the attitude of King Hezekiah, "Then said Hezekiah unto Isaiah, Good is the word of the LORD which thou hast spoken. And he said, Is it not good, if peace and truth be in my days?" (II Kings 20:19). Hezekiah was content to sacrifice future generations as long as he could enjoy the present with contentment. We need to awaken to the reality that staring at our own navel will never gives us an accurate vision of the world around us that needs to know about the love and grace of God.
God help us to be willing to change according to His will! God help me to view the needs of the world through God's lens, not just through my own filtered lens of personal perception.
We live in a changing world, but most of us resist and even fight against change. Unfortunately, the majority only want change if it will personally benefit them.
There are some things that are unchangeable. The veracity and the authority of Scripture should never be considered as a subject which is open to our whims and opinions. God is clearly seen as the One who is changeless throughout eternity. Truth is true whether the opinions of the majority would discount it, and lies will be deceptive regardless of the trappings that Satan, religion, and mankind would embellish them.
Change is a painful topic for many of us. Perhaps the local church is one the best examples of a microcosm that resists change with fierceness and tenacity. Many of our churches saw their greatest time of effectiveness during the decades between 1950 through 1980, and we continue trying to reach the world of 2014 with the methods that worked well in the past. While we must hold with conviction our Biblical foundations, we must realize that we must be open to some variation in methodology to reach current and future generations.
One example of effective change is our annual Vacation Bible School. When I was a child, VBS consisted of pledges, missionary stories, and snacks comprised of butter cookies and red Kool-Aid. Today, we use an all-out program to capture the attention and engender enthusiasm within the kids that attend. All of this is done so that we can have the opportunity to share the Gospel with those who may not hear it otherwise. It's not the way our grandparents did it, but it works. We can change the methodology without sacrificing doctrinal integrity.
Churches across America are dying and they refuse to realize it. Perhaps the main culprit is the fact that we are too often focused on our own preferences, traditions, and tastes. We are happy to see people come to faith in Christ as long as they adopt our way of doing things.
We need a revival that will lead us to see the lost as the Apostle Paul saw them, "For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me. What is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel. For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you." (I Cor.9:16-23).
Sadly, too many of us have adopted the attitude of King Hezekiah, "Then said Hezekiah unto Isaiah, Good is the word of the LORD which thou hast spoken. And he said, Is it not good, if peace and truth be in my days?" (II Kings 20:19). Hezekiah was content to sacrifice future generations as long as he could enjoy the present with contentment. We need to awaken to the reality that staring at our own navel will never gives us an accurate vision of the world around us that needs to know about the love and grace of God.
God help us to be willing to change according to His will! God help me to view the needs of the world through God's lens, not just through my own filtered lens of personal perception.
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