Many people do not research Biblical truths when it comes to Salvation, being a (real) Christian, and how to deal with people who really are imposters. I am fortunate to work with the lost, those in need help, and those who are truly disabled. Unfortunately we see the brutal reality of many proclaiming Christ and that they are Christians, and those who are in true need and unable to work. Many claim to be Christians and use the excuse of "If I get a minimum wage job, I will have to pay more child support, lose my pension, lose my disability and so forth. They say that they cannot find a job because if they do they would have to find one that is $12.00 to $14.00 in order to make the same anount that they are receiving from disability, pensions, or other government hand outs. Our food and clothing pantry deals with in access of 1,300 people a month and we see it all and hear it all. Let me share some scripture ino order to bring this into perspective:
Epehsians 4:28 plainly states "Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in neeed." Paul staes in 2 Thessalonians "Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. And as for you brothers, never tire of doing what is good. Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed."
We all know people in our lives that do not adhere to these scriptures, or think very little of them. Would a man or a woman (No matter of what situation) who is able to do 'Something' productive and is a Christian really use the excuse of "I'm disabled", or "I can't work because I will lose my disability or pension?" We are all called to be useful. We have a dear sweet lady who has downs syndrome that volunteers at our Care Center. Even with all of her disabilities she desires to be useful. She openly say that if she could get a job (Because of her situation she can't) then she would gladly take it to be useful as the scritpure states. I have always stated that behind every excuse stands the devil. If the Word states that one should work or not eat, then that is what someone who truly has the Spirit of God in them, would do, no matter what. If it took two jobs to make what you would under disablity, pension, or other assistance, I believe one would rather work and be productive instead of hiding behind an excuse to take the low road instead of the high road.
We have created a world and church that enables people instead of challenges people to be the people Christ died for. Back in my day I would have certainly been classified 'Bi-Polar', 'ADHD', and many of the other lies that people claim today that keeps them from being productive and living a life as a sluggard. Can you be a real Christian and allow your manhood to be stripped from you along with your pride and integrity? Share truth with people. Tell them that the devil and themselves have stripped them of the cross and self worth. Ephesians 4 says "Live a life worthy of your calling."
One last word..... I am not stereotyping anyone and most definitely paintong all with the same paint brush. Just sepaking truth about those who can and won't~
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Saturday, November 2, 2013
A Pastor's Confession
You may have a desire to open this blog and read it because you though that you might read a blog with gorey details of sin in a Pastor's life. What I am about to share many have encountered and also been guilty of. I will give God the glory for what He did to prevent me from sinning.
In 1992 I committed my life to Jesus and gave it totally to Him. Every bit and not just part. It has been the greatest blessing in which I could ever receive, and at many times it has been the battleground of a war that tends to rage against me to may times. It has been the one sole thing that has held me together for over 21 years, and the one sole thing that keeps me going.
The past month placed a heavy load on my spirit and heart. My daughter Layne and her family was in from Africa and I wanted to spend time with her family, I was out of town, and on another weekend I was feeling under the weather. Time had slipped by and I had not made but one visit to teach at the detention center on a sturday morning. This morning I woke up and knew that I needed to go to the detention center, but everything in me was nto wanting to go. As I drove to church to get my guitar thoughts kept ringing through my ears that I can just call in and wait for next week when Judy could once again join me. The the worst though reared its filthy head and I started questiong if what I was doing ws even worth it. I waited in my office up to the time I left and all I could say was "Help me Jesus." I drove slowly towards the detention center and even thought about turning back. Before I pushed the ringer the door unlocked. As I walked through all three of the doors my spirit began to give me peace. I walked through the fourth and final door and immediately I was welcomed by the staff and the majority of the kids "Good morning Pastor Pete." This morning I found myself amongst one of the largest numbers of kids that the place can hold. Usually the kids are a little timid to sing, and I shared with them that they were not singing to their neighbors or themselves, but they were singing to Jesus. They sang louder than ever singing Sing to the King who is coming to reign. We walked through John 15 and Luke 15 together and they all participated. We finished the morning singing JJ Hellers song 'Love Me.' Tears flowed and hearts melted as they sang "Who will love me for me." When it came to an end there was a large number of kids wanting to talk with me and pray.
Being a Pastor is not easy. Being a Christian is even harder. I am confessing that "Yes' even I am tempted to live for me, and please myself when God knows what is best. Best not just for me, but for you also. If we live our lives, even when the pull of this world is grasping at us, living, loving and serving Jesus and others, our lives will be full to the brim. Compassion will overflow out of our souls, and our love for Him and others will keep us full. So next time you think "No", get up and "Go!"
In 1992 I committed my life to Jesus and gave it totally to Him. Every bit and not just part. It has been the greatest blessing in which I could ever receive, and at many times it has been the battleground of a war that tends to rage against me to may times. It has been the one sole thing that has held me together for over 21 years, and the one sole thing that keeps me going.
The past month placed a heavy load on my spirit and heart. My daughter Layne and her family was in from Africa and I wanted to spend time with her family, I was out of town, and on another weekend I was feeling under the weather. Time had slipped by and I had not made but one visit to teach at the detention center on a sturday morning. This morning I woke up and knew that I needed to go to the detention center, but everything in me was nto wanting to go. As I drove to church to get my guitar thoughts kept ringing through my ears that I can just call in and wait for next week when Judy could once again join me. The the worst though reared its filthy head and I started questiong if what I was doing ws even worth it. I waited in my office up to the time I left and all I could say was "Help me Jesus." I drove slowly towards the detention center and even thought about turning back. Before I pushed the ringer the door unlocked. As I walked through all three of the doors my spirit began to give me peace. I walked through the fourth and final door and immediately I was welcomed by the staff and the majority of the kids "Good morning Pastor Pete." This morning I found myself amongst one of the largest numbers of kids that the place can hold. Usually the kids are a little timid to sing, and I shared with them that they were not singing to their neighbors or themselves, but they were singing to Jesus. They sang louder than ever singing Sing to the King who is coming to reign. We walked through John 15 and Luke 15 together and they all participated. We finished the morning singing JJ Hellers song 'Love Me.' Tears flowed and hearts melted as they sang "Who will love me for me." When it came to an end there was a large number of kids wanting to talk with me and pray.
Being a Pastor is not easy. Being a Christian is even harder. I am confessing that "Yes' even I am tempted to live for me, and please myself when God knows what is best. Best not just for me, but for you also. If we live our lives, even when the pull of this world is grasping at us, living, loving and serving Jesus and others, our lives will be full to the brim. Compassion will overflow out of our souls, and our love for Him and others will keep us full. So next time you think "No", get up and "Go!"
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Pray Continually
In 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Paul writes "Rejoice always, praying continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." I know that all of us have read this passage and probably even studied it. I know for myself I tend to think that I do pray alot all day (and I do) and that my prayer life is great. Amazingly enough, God still shows me that we can never pray enough. I text over 115 people daily with a scripture or an encouraging word that will help us all stay in Christ each day. In the past six (6) months it is has evolved also into a 'Prayer Chain.' Whenever people call me with a prayer concern, or text me with a prayer concern, I immediately text my daily group and they pray along with me and the persons sending the requests. We have seen miracles and answered prayer almost on a daily basis. God is faithful.
Sunday afternoon I was teaching and encouraging the cadets to pray without ceasing. I asked them all this question "Who would like to commit to praying for me and Mrs. P all week, every hour on the hour. Their hands immediately flew up, and in the back of the room a young lady said "We will, if you will also pray for us every hour on the hour this week." Of course I accepted the challenge and almost thought that I had bit off a little more than I can chew. I do not listen to the radio, but pray when I am in my car. This serves as a good reminder for me to pray right then for all the people that I know need prayer. As monday morning dawned I got this great idea, "If I set my alarm on my cell phone to go off every hour on the hour, this will help remind me to pray for the kids!" At first it seemed a little bothersome, but I was obedient to pray everytime that alarm went off. Half way through the day I realized "Hey, why not do this until the Lord comes back or takes me home?" By the time evening came I was praying not only for the cadets I promised to pray for, but all of my family, my friends, other churches, the sick and the hurting and on and on. That night I realized that my prayer life wasn't even close to what Paul's was, and was not even close to praying without ceasing. It has been a blessed week though. God has opened up divine appointments, the Word is coming alive, and their is nothing but joy in my life. Why shouldn't we all take this reminder and apply it to our lives? What would happen if we did? Maybe we would see revival first in us, and then around us. Maybe then oppression and strongholds will be broken, and people and familes will be reconciled. The blind will see and the lame will walk.
I pray that you will think about what you just read and consider doing the same with your committment to prayer. I cannot say that this was 'my' idea because only the Spirit of God could bring this sort of challenge to myself, the cadets and now you. What will you do from here? Are you comfortabel with your prayer life and does it line up with the scripture when we read Paul's words "Pray continually." Prayer can do more than we think. It can heal, mend, reconcile, intercede and change us, and the world in which we live. I pray you will take the challenge. Be blessed!
Sunday afternoon I was teaching and encouraging the cadets to pray without ceasing. I asked them all this question "Who would like to commit to praying for me and Mrs. P all week, every hour on the hour. Their hands immediately flew up, and in the back of the room a young lady said "We will, if you will also pray for us every hour on the hour this week." Of course I accepted the challenge and almost thought that I had bit off a little more than I can chew. I do not listen to the radio, but pray when I am in my car. This serves as a good reminder for me to pray right then for all the people that I know need prayer. As monday morning dawned I got this great idea, "If I set my alarm on my cell phone to go off every hour on the hour, this will help remind me to pray for the kids!" At first it seemed a little bothersome, but I was obedient to pray everytime that alarm went off. Half way through the day I realized "Hey, why not do this until the Lord comes back or takes me home?" By the time evening came I was praying not only for the cadets I promised to pray for, but all of my family, my friends, other churches, the sick and the hurting and on and on. That night I realized that my prayer life wasn't even close to what Paul's was, and was not even close to praying without ceasing. It has been a blessed week though. God has opened up divine appointments, the Word is coming alive, and their is nothing but joy in my life. Why shouldn't we all take this reminder and apply it to our lives? What would happen if we did? Maybe we would see revival first in us, and then around us. Maybe then oppression and strongholds will be broken, and people and familes will be reconciled. The blind will see and the lame will walk.
I pray that you will think about what you just read and consider doing the same with your committment to prayer. I cannot say that this was 'my' idea because only the Spirit of God could bring this sort of challenge to myself, the cadets and now you. What will you do from here? Are you comfortabel with your prayer life and does it line up with the scripture when we read Paul's words "Pray continually." Prayer can do more than we think. It can heal, mend, reconcile, intercede and change us, and the world in which we live. I pray you will take the challenge. Be blessed!
Friday, June 28, 2013
Jesus, Obedience, and the Homosexual Choice
God is so good. Yesterday on Facebook there were alot of comments on the Supreme Courts Ruling Tuesday. Ironically people who claim to know Christ were doing the usual thing posting that anyone opposed to homosexuality are haters and judgers. They claim to know God and claim to have faith, but yet they are willingly allowing people who are in the alternative world, drown in the sin they are in in the name of 'Love.' I believe that sin is sin and according to the scripture "God shows 'no' favoritism." The devil has made professing Christian to believe that sin is okay as long as they have said a prayer, belong to a certain denomination, tithe, or are baptized. What happened to God showing 'No' favoritism. I choose to believe the Word rather than man's hollow teaching.
Yesterday at the food pantry a grandmother and her four grandchildren came in and I had to interview them. As I looked at the oldest child (I found out she was 18 years old) I was grieved. This was a innocent young lady adorning a mohawk, bagging shorts, shirt wide open with a tee shirt under it, hi-top tennis shoes, and chains hanging from her pockets. All of the kids were pretty unruly as I took down the information I needed to provide this family food. Throughout this interview I kept getting that old familiar nudge to share the truth with the grandmother and the granddaughter. I quickly thought of the Bible Studies I teach and felt the compassion Christ had for all of us when we were perishing in our sin. I finally received all of the information needed and assured them that they were going to get their food. I then asked the grandmother and the young lady to step into the kitchen and shut the door. As we sat down I immediately felt the tension rising as they waited patiently to hear what I had to share with them. What they did not know is that I was praying for them while I was interviewing them and also right up to the moment I began to share the gospel with them.
I let them both know that I am a Pastor and volunteer because I love to serve the Lord. I then peered into the young girls eyes and asked her if she believed that the Bible is the truth and if she believed in Jesus. She said "Yes', and then proceeded to tell me where she had attended church. I asked he a huge question that I ask everyone before I begin to share with them "If Jesus was sitting right where I am, do you think He would love you enough to tell the truth?" Like all of the others, she said "Yes." I began by sharong a part of Psalm 139 with her. I spoke God's truth into her life by saying "God has fearfully and wonderfully created you. You are His masterpiece and you are His one of a kind. You, as we all are, were created to bring Him glory. Is your choice of lifestyle bringing Him glory?" She bowed her head and said "No." I reiterated that God has a huge plan for her life, but as long as she was making choices that opposed Him why would He reveal His plan for her life? She said he wouldn't. As I walked through the scriptures about sexual immorality and shared the truth that God's word said the person choosing this lifestyle would not inherit the kingdom of God, she began to tear up. I was brutally honest with her and said "Look, the Bible even says that 'All' liars will be thrown into the lake of sulpher (Rev. 21:8), so sin is sin, not just sexual immorality, and we all need to get any known sin out of our lives." She quickly asked me if I prayed with people, and I said "It would be my privilege." She asked me then if I would pray for her mother because she has ovarian cancer, and I again said "It would be a privilege." We bowed our heads and prayed. When we raised our heads tears were pouring from her eyes and she thanked me.
Here is the question for all of us who claim to know Jesus, believe His Word, and claim to have Him living within us "What would you have done?" Would you have been obedient to the Spirit within you, or justified why you would not take the time to share the truth with this young woman or anyone else. Not being obedient is disobedient and the same Bible in which we all believe in states that the disobedient aren't turly His. These are the tests we all will face from time to time and even on a daily basis. We live in a world where everything is acceptable, and that its okay to live as anyone desires, and still go to heaven. The world needs obedient Christians who turly have the compassion of Christ to share His truths with. He came to save the lost, but if we are not telling them the truth, then they are still lost. Handing out food, showing love, and meeting the needs of people in an effort for them to turn and change without the truth is merely a lie. Unfortunately many meet every weekend, or monthly and share what they think is the love of Christ. Christ never allowed the lost to go away with a feel good message, but He spoke truth and repentance to all. We need to quit telling people Jesus loves them without the truth of the consequence of sin. Love them as Jesus did, and tell them the truth that will set them free~
Yesterday at the food pantry a grandmother and her four grandchildren came in and I had to interview them. As I looked at the oldest child (I found out she was 18 years old) I was grieved. This was a innocent young lady adorning a mohawk, bagging shorts, shirt wide open with a tee shirt under it, hi-top tennis shoes, and chains hanging from her pockets. All of the kids were pretty unruly as I took down the information I needed to provide this family food. Throughout this interview I kept getting that old familiar nudge to share the truth with the grandmother and the granddaughter. I quickly thought of the Bible Studies I teach and felt the compassion Christ had for all of us when we were perishing in our sin. I finally received all of the information needed and assured them that they were going to get their food. I then asked the grandmother and the young lady to step into the kitchen and shut the door. As we sat down I immediately felt the tension rising as they waited patiently to hear what I had to share with them. What they did not know is that I was praying for them while I was interviewing them and also right up to the moment I began to share the gospel with them.
I let them both know that I am a Pastor and volunteer because I love to serve the Lord. I then peered into the young girls eyes and asked her if she believed that the Bible is the truth and if she believed in Jesus. She said "Yes', and then proceeded to tell me where she had attended church. I asked he a huge question that I ask everyone before I begin to share with them "If Jesus was sitting right where I am, do you think He would love you enough to tell the truth?" Like all of the others, she said "Yes." I began by sharong a part of Psalm 139 with her. I spoke God's truth into her life by saying "God has fearfully and wonderfully created you. You are His masterpiece and you are His one of a kind. You, as we all are, were created to bring Him glory. Is your choice of lifestyle bringing Him glory?" She bowed her head and said "No." I reiterated that God has a huge plan for her life, but as long as she was making choices that opposed Him why would He reveal His plan for her life? She said he wouldn't. As I walked through the scriptures about sexual immorality and shared the truth that God's word said the person choosing this lifestyle would not inherit the kingdom of God, she began to tear up. I was brutally honest with her and said "Look, the Bible even says that 'All' liars will be thrown into the lake of sulpher (Rev. 21:8), so sin is sin, not just sexual immorality, and we all need to get any known sin out of our lives." She quickly asked me if I prayed with people, and I said "It would be my privilege." She asked me then if I would pray for her mother because she has ovarian cancer, and I again said "It would be a privilege." We bowed our heads and prayed. When we raised our heads tears were pouring from her eyes and she thanked me.
Here is the question for all of us who claim to know Jesus, believe His Word, and claim to have Him living within us "What would you have done?" Would you have been obedient to the Spirit within you, or justified why you would not take the time to share the truth with this young woman or anyone else. Not being obedient is disobedient and the same Bible in which we all believe in states that the disobedient aren't turly His. These are the tests we all will face from time to time and even on a daily basis. We live in a world where everything is acceptable, and that its okay to live as anyone desires, and still go to heaven. The world needs obedient Christians who turly have the compassion of Christ to share His truths with. He came to save the lost, but if we are not telling them the truth, then they are still lost. Handing out food, showing love, and meeting the needs of people in an effort for them to turn and change without the truth is merely a lie. Unfortunately many meet every weekend, or monthly and share what they think is the love of Christ. Christ never allowed the lost to go away with a feel good message, but He spoke truth and repentance to all. We need to quit telling people Jesus loves them without the truth of the consequence of sin. Love them as Jesus did, and tell them the truth that will set them free~
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Pastor's or Pharisee's
This blog has been on my heart for months now. Today I feel the need to obedient to what the Spirit is saying to me instead of procrastinating and not being obedient. Today there are many out there claiming to be Pastor's, but are only preachers, teachers or evangelists. Hear me out please because Jesus addressed this very thing.
In Matthew 23, Jesus lays the hammer down on the Pharisees and religious leaders. In verses 2-4 the scripture says that Jesus said to the Pharisees, teachers, and religious leaders "The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses seat. So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them." He goes on in verse 15 and says "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when you have succeeded, you make them twice as much a son of hell as you are."
These are some pretty strong words from a man full of love and compassion aren't they? Let us look at what Jesus is saying then and today to the leaders of His church today. Unfortunately, the 'Call' of God on ones life gets substituted for a profession or ones desire to live out their desire instead of God's desire for their lives. What is a Pastor? Its pretty simple "One who leads the flock." What is a teacher? "One who teaches the Word." What is an evangelist?" One who goes from one place to another preaching the Word to the mas multitudes." The dilemma is simple "People claim to be Pastors, but they are truly teachers, or evangelists. Teachers and Evangelists are not exempt from what they teach, but I want to focus on the 'Pastor.' If you are attending a church where the pastor is preaching outreach in the community, sharing the gospel with the lost, having prayer meetings, and doing prison ministry etc, and does not himself 'Do' what he preaches form the pulpit on a weekly basis, then he is, as Jesus said, "A hypocrite." You might find this offensive, but it is truth. I know pastors that encourage their flock to do certain things, but hey only do one or two things a month, or nothing at all. How is the flock to know how to follow Christ and do as He says if the pastor isn't leading by example? If he is not actively living out what he preaches then do what he says, but do not do what he does. A true pastor understands that he is to lay his life down for his sheep. Jesus made it pretty clear to Peter in John 21 that If we really love Him, that we would "Feed His Lambs, take care of His sheep, and feed His sheep." Is this the example your Pastor is showing you? If not then let him know that he is out of his calling and needs to be called, teacher, evangelist, or preacher. He has no business calling himself 'Pastor.'
I am truly convinced that the church is not vibrant today and lives in a comfortable, complacent, and apathetic state because they are not be lead by the example of their Pastor (Shepherd). We can speak pretty, come up with programs or deeds that make people feel good, and think we are Christians surrendered to Christ, but be no more than hypocrites. The USA is in a complete downslide because the church wants a pretty Pastor, saying pretty things and are content whether he is a Pastor or not. We are reaping what we have sown.
This world needs to see Jesus manifesting Himself through Christians doing His will and not hearing the gospel without action. Pastor, who are you really? A hypocrite that is to busy verbally telling others what to do, studying scripture to sound good and not being examples of Christ in action on a daily basis? Christian, are you satisfied hearing and not seeing Christ in action in your leadership? Jesus was against the religious leaders of yesterday and I believe He would be against the majority of Religious leaders today calling themselves Christians. Re-read the scriptures of what Jesus said to His men and others. He said it then, and He is saying it now, Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." How can the people take up their crosses when the leaders aren't doing the same~
In Matthew 23, Jesus lays the hammer down on the Pharisees and religious leaders. In verses 2-4 the scripture says that Jesus said to the Pharisees, teachers, and religious leaders "The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses seat. So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them." He goes on in verse 15 and says "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when you have succeeded, you make them twice as much a son of hell as you are."
These are some pretty strong words from a man full of love and compassion aren't they? Let us look at what Jesus is saying then and today to the leaders of His church today. Unfortunately, the 'Call' of God on ones life gets substituted for a profession or ones desire to live out their desire instead of God's desire for their lives. What is a Pastor? Its pretty simple "One who leads the flock." What is a teacher? "One who teaches the Word." What is an evangelist?" One who goes from one place to another preaching the Word to the mas multitudes." The dilemma is simple "People claim to be Pastors, but they are truly teachers, or evangelists. Teachers and Evangelists are not exempt from what they teach, but I want to focus on the 'Pastor.' If you are attending a church where the pastor is preaching outreach in the community, sharing the gospel with the lost, having prayer meetings, and doing prison ministry etc, and does not himself 'Do' what he preaches form the pulpit on a weekly basis, then he is, as Jesus said, "A hypocrite." You might find this offensive, but it is truth. I know pastors that encourage their flock to do certain things, but hey only do one or two things a month, or nothing at all. How is the flock to know how to follow Christ and do as He says if the pastor isn't leading by example? If he is not actively living out what he preaches then do what he says, but do not do what he does. A true pastor understands that he is to lay his life down for his sheep. Jesus made it pretty clear to Peter in John 21 that If we really love Him, that we would "Feed His Lambs, take care of His sheep, and feed His sheep." Is this the example your Pastor is showing you? If not then let him know that he is out of his calling and needs to be called, teacher, evangelist, or preacher. He has no business calling himself 'Pastor.'
I am truly convinced that the church is not vibrant today and lives in a comfortable, complacent, and apathetic state because they are not be lead by the example of their Pastor (Shepherd). We can speak pretty, come up with programs or deeds that make people feel good, and think we are Christians surrendered to Christ, but be no more than hypocrites. The USA is in a complete downslide because the church wants a pretty Pastor, saying pretty things and are content whether he is a Pastor or not. We are reaping what we have sown.
This world needs to see Jesus manifesting Himself through Christians doing His will and not hearing the gospel without action. Pastor, who are you really? A hypocrite that is to busy verbally telling others what to do, studying scripture to sound good and not being examples of Christ in action on a daily basis? Christian, are you satisfied hearing and not seeing Christ in action in your leadership? Jesus was against the religious leaders of yesterday and I believe He would be against the majority of Religious leaders today calling themselves Christians. Re-read the scriptures of what Jesus said to His men and others. He said it then, and He is saying it now, Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." How can the people take up their crosses when the leaders aren't doing the same~
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Ecuador
How would one even begin to describe, or even have the time to write down, all that we saw, and all that we experienced on our mission trip to Ecuador. Ecuador is truly one of God's greatest creations. The country, it slandscapes, and its people are all beautiful. I would move there in a heart beat if the Lord would open that door.
We first served in the Jungle. We were allowed the privlege of starting a 3,000 sq. ft. slab for a new building at the orphanage/shool in the jungle. We litterly loaded and unloaded concrete one wheel barrow at a time from one spot to another. Roberto and Charmae are a wonderful blessing. Their love and enthusiasm is contagious and their hearts are huge. They started bringing kids into their home first and then started a school where the people would know it was a safe enviroment to send their kids. If I am not mistaken they have 52 kids right now and within a couple of years they should be teaching several hundred. The blessing is that they will not only be taught reading, writing and arithmetic, but that they will also come to know Christ through Roberto, Charmae and the staff.
If you have ever watched 'National Geographic' seeing 25' canoes that are only wide enough to seat two, sliding down rivers in the jungle and stopping on a bank amongst the vegitation, you have seen just what we did. We would go down the river and come to rest next to a path that led up to a village full of kids ready to meet us, and se what we had to offer. Other time we would be on the bus driving through the vast jungle and coming to rest at a location where village people would gather to meet us. We shared many crafts and games. We provided lentils and rice along with bread and drinks. When the fun was dying down Jake Bickham would share the message of Jesus and salvation to those who gathered around us.
Colorado in all of its splendor does not hold a candle to the mountains of Ecuador. As we drove through the mountains one could only marvel and the splendor of God's masterpiece. I found myself daily thanking God for the opportunity to witness such majesty.
We arrived in Manta to serve at a church. Sunday morning service was great and the people welcomed us with love and warmth. We built a wall for the church and we labored each day mixing our concrete with sand and rocks. We were privileged to have church members cook lunch for us daily. After two days of working the members of the church came and began helping us as we worked. Judy, Shereen and the girls painted rooms, painted murals, and met other needs that the church needed. Manta is ont he coast and once again we witnessed even more of God's majesty in His creation.
I was fortunate to preach on Sunday night in the jungle, and also in Manta. I was told that it was amazing that the Pastor in Manta asked me to preach the wednesday night service. The people in this church were sincere, and in the end I asked if they would like to see revival and they al raised their hands. The Solis family blessed us by letting us stay in their house for the week. They are truly a family seeking out God's will and living it out also. Leavinf was extremely difficult. It was bittersweet. One part was that we wanted to stay, and the other was that we were needed at home.
There were many God times, many miracles, and many blessings that we witnessed. I have shortened this all up and probably am not doing any justice to what we experienced and witnessed. We are already planning to go back next year, and we are looking forward to serving and loving the people of Ecuador the same as Christ. Our team was amazing and made everlasting friendships. God is good :)
If any of you ever have the opportunity to serve in Ecuador, please do not hesitate. It will be a God thing~
We first served in the Jungle. We were allowed the privlege of starting a 3,000 sq. ft. slab for a new building at the orphanage/shool in the jungle. We litterly loaded and unloaded concrete one wheel barrow at a time from one spot to another. Roberto and Charmae are a wonderful blessing. Their love and enthusiasm is contagious and their hearts are huge. They started bringing kids into their home first and then started a school where the people would know it was a safe enviroment to send their kids. If I am not mistaken they have 52 kids right now and within a couple of years they should be teaching several hundred. The blessing is that they will not only be taught reading, writing and arithmetic, but that they will also come to know Christ through Roberto, Charmae and the staff.
If you have ever watched 'National Geographic' seeing 25' canoes that are only wide enough to seat two, sliding down rivers in the jungle and stopping on a bank amongst the vegitation, you have seen just what we did. We would go down the river and come to rest next to a path that led up to a village full of kids ready to meet us, and se what we had to offer. Other time we would be on the bus driving through the vast jungle and coming to rest at a location where village people would gather to meet us. We shared many crafts and games. We provided lentils and rice along with bread and drinks. When the fun was dying down Jake Bickham would share the message of Jesus and salvation to those who gathered around us.
Colorado in all of its splendor does not hold a candle to the mountains of Ecuador. As we drove through the mountains one could only marvel and the splendor of God's masterpiece. I found myself daily thanking God for the opportunity to witness such majesty.
We arrived in Manta to serve at a church. Sunday morning service was great and the people welcomed us with love and warmth. We built a wall for the church and we labored each day mixing our concrete with sand and rocks. We were privileged to have church members cook lunch for us daily. After two days of working the members of the church came and began helping us as we worked. Judy, Shereen and the girls painted rooms, painted murals, and met other needs that the church needed. Manta is ont he coast and once again we witnessed even more of God's majesty in His creation.
I was fortunate to preach on Sunday night in the jungle, and also in Manta. I was told that it was amazing that the Pastor in Manta asked me to preach the wednesday night service. The people in this church were sincere, and in the end I asked if they would like to see revival and they al raised their hands. The Solis family blessed us by letting us stay in their house for the week. They are truly a family seeking out God's will and living it out also. Leavinf was extremely difficult. It was bittersweet. One part was that we wanted to stay, and the other was that we were needed at home.
There were many God times, many miracles, and many blessings that we witnessed. I have shortened this all up and probably am not doing any justice to what we experienced and witnessed. We are already planning to go back next year, and we are looking forward to serving and loving the people of Ecuador the same as Christ. Our team was amazing and made everlasting friendships. God is good :)
If any of you ever have the opportunity to serve in Ecuador, please do not hesitate. It will be a God thing~
Saturday, May 11, 2013
What Jesus Always Preached...
The Word of God is soooo good! It is always teaching and showing us 'Truth.' Over the years people have been confused with what to believe and what as Christians we are to teach and preach. I want to share and important truth today that the gospel is built on and what Jesus ministry was established from.
In Matthew 4:17 is says "From this time on Jesus began to preach, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near." The apostle John gives a glimpse by writing these words "Jesus did many other things as well. If everyone of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written." Isn't it amazing that we read through scripture, listen to stories and read blogs without seeing the hidden truths about Jesus and His ministry. I do not by any means desire to attempt to take away from any scripture at all, but I do want us to focus on the heart of Jesus ministry, "Repentance."
Matthew wrote "From this time on", and we need to take a close look at this. What was Matthew saying that we need to focus on. Yes, we have all of the gospels which share their accounting of Jesus life when they were with Him. Now, wrap your arms around this truth that Jesus never 'Preached' or 'Shared' a message without 'Repentance.' Today this word 'Repentance' is not preached, or taught everytime we share the gospel, teach others, or preach sermons except in 'Occassional' Situations. Is this what Jesus would have done. Obviously not according to Matthew. Without the message of turning from self and sin, and then turning to God, the gospel is merely a story that carries no weight. If their is no repentance then there is no salvation. No one can have salvation without repentance.
If Jesus preached repent then why don't we. Many will say that Jesus did not preach the same thing over and over, but according to Matthew repentance was the main theme of every message and parable.
I might ask that this time "Do you always present the gospel and truth with those you come in contact with by sharing the truth that there is a need to repent before anyone can go any further?" If Jesus preached and taught the importance repentance then we need to also. When? All the time. This is how Jesus ministered and so should we. The glorious result of repentance is that one will be right with God, and can now move forward into a marvelous relationship with Him. As Jesus did, we must also......
In Matthew 4:17 is says "From this time on Jesus began to preach, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near." The apostle John gives a glimpse by writing these words "Jesus did many other things as well. If everyone of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written." Isn't it amazing that we read through scripture, listen to stories and read blogs without seeing the hidden truths about Jesus and His ministry. I do not by any means desire to attempt to take away from any scripture at all, but I do want us to focus on the heart of Jesus ministry, "Repentance."
Matthew wrote "From this time on", and we need to take a close look at this. What was Matthew saying that we need to focus on. Yes, we have all of the gospels which share their accounting of Jesus life when they were with Him. Now, wrap your arms around this truth that Jesus never 'Preached' or 'Shared' a message without 'Repentance.' Today this word 'Repentance' is not preached, or taught everytime we share the gospel, teach others, or preach sermons except in 'Occassional' Situations. Is this what Jesus would have done. Obviously not according to Matthew. Without the message of turning from self and sin, and then turning to God, the gospel is merely a story that carries no weight. If their is no repentance then there is no salvation. No one can have salvation without repentance.
If Jesus preached repent then why don't we. Many will say that Jesus did not preach the same thing over and over, but according to Matthew repentance was the main theme of every message and parable.
I might ask that this time "Do you always present the gospel and truth with those you come in contact with by sharing the truth that there is a need to repent before anyone can go any further?" If Jesus preached and taught the importance repentance then we need to also. When? All the time. This is how Jesus ministered and so should we. The glorious result of repentance is that one will be right with God, and can now move forward into a marvelous relationship with Him. As Jesus did, we must also......
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