The Fig Tree & A Vine

Loving Others

2012-01-28T22:17:00.000-05:00

For the past 18months I have been working on a Taskforce of 8 InterVarsity Staff workers from around the country. Our job was to create the next policy concerning issues of Sexuality, specifically relating to the GLBTQ community. The last one was written in 1995. A lot has happened since 1995!

Let me tell you why this Taskforce was formed,

I think it is very interesting.

At Urbana 09 (IV’s Triennial Global Conference) Alec Hill, IV’s President met with a bunch of Chapter Presidents attending Urbana'09, from around the country. At one point Alec asked the group: “What are 3 issues that concerns you on campus that IV is not talking about?”

#1, practically unanimously was ‘Helping us understand GLBTQ issues” the other 2 were not even close! As a staff team throughout the country we were shocked. I think we thought the issues would be vocation, spiritual direction, evangelism, etc. Boy were we ever wrong!

The 2^nd thing that happened at Urbana’09 was we invited an IVP author to give a series of seminars on GLBTQ issues, Andrew Marin, wrote Love is an Orientation, filled every seminar room we gave him. There were hundreds of students who attended, and he sold a ton of books! Our eyes were opened. His refreshing look at this issue was a challenge to students and staff.

Our team of 8 on the TaskForce, recruited other assistants and submitted our proposal, in November 2011. It included 30 documents we created, over 100 other (outside) resources, over 600 pages of information. It is now in the hands of the Board of Directors and the President’s Cabinet and should be ready for final editing by Jan. 31.

You probably know this is a very sensitive issue. There is major upheaval in the Christian community over it. Denominations are splitting. Ministers are leaving the church, and changing denominations. The Church is very confused. Many things, good & bad have happened since the taskforce started meeting. Each time a news story hit we had to review it and sometimes we had to change statements that we have worked hard to compile, but we tried to get to the right place.

Even the 8 of us did not agree on the various tenets of the policy. We worked hard on consensus, but at the end of the day we just had to agree to disagree on some things.

These are some things we were looking at:

1) How does InterVarsity's Vision Statement and Doctrinal Statement relate to our witness in this community?

2) What can we do to be proactive with the campus administrations when campus policies appear to be opposed to Holy Scripture, & InterVarsity’s Positions and choose to remain on campus?

3) Can we have a code of ethics that allows for working with individuals and groups from the GLBTQ community?

4) Can we resource staff, leaders & students who are trying to speak the gospel everywhere on campus, but may not understand ALL the issues?

Personally, I have had opportunities to relate to people who have been broken by the issues related to homosexuality. Some I have done well in helping see a bigger picture of Christ, some I have messed up by concentrating on “fixing” the sin rather than dealing with the person.

I realize that God does not do that with me. I hear the Gospel every day and then He makes me aware and convicts me of my sin. I have a choice to repent or ignore… Sometimes I can do either one.

But if you came along and tried to convict me of my sin, I wouldn’t receive it! Conviction of sin is difficult. It has to come from the right source and be given in the correct context. I have to know where I am falling short (hear the truth), without being pounded with it. You are not the Holy Spirit. I am not the HOLY SPIRIT!

When asked why they think Homosexuality is wrong many sincere Christians reply simply: “Because the Bible says it is.” Every one of the traditional verses about homosexuality can be and is easily refuted by the current revisionist critics of hermeneutics (Bible interpretation). I am sure that is the way that most religion faculty at secular schools handle it. We have to be careful we do not fall into the trap of being seduced by the sweeping statements of theological liberal academics who do not highly regard the scriptures.

We need more background to good Biblical interpretation of these Biblical passages. Let me say, I believe in the Inerrancy of scripture. I believe the Bible is Divine & Human at the same time. It speaks in culture, throughout history and it speaks to us today! It is amazing and it speaks clearly to the sacred and profane!

It is incredible to realize that in every case where the Bible talks about Homosexuality it is condemned. Not just because it is pedophilia, or violence, or rape it is condemned because it distorts God’s plan for sex.

Sex is God-created for marriage between a man and a woman. It was made for celebration, creating a family and unity between a man and a woman. There is no better way to communicate than sex! God made sexual union for a purpose – the uniting of husband & wife into one flesh in marriage. The Lord condemns anything that corrupts that perspective. We need to keep that perspective.

Dave Kinnamen: in his book Unchristian says the #1 reason 18-30 yr olds are leaving the church is intolerance related to homosexuality.

Once I began to realize this, my heart was touched by the reality that the church was making a huge mistake. The church was ‘quick to judge and slow to love.

And the church was me. As I walked around campus I saw the evidence of the GLBTQ community and I was doing nothing to speak the Gospel to this community. For me it was fear. I felt ashamed. We all need the Gospel. And yet we are so reluctant to share God's love to those who are not like us!

We have made mistakes and I believe we must walk into this community and begin to correct those errors. The GLBTQ community needs the Gospel just like any other community. I believe we avoid it because we are afraid.

There are 2 things we must do. Two things that do not naturally go together

1) We must exhibit the very love of Christ Himself.

a. Eradicate our negative responses to homosexual people

b. Stop the queer jokes & insults

c. We must choose to love.

d. Ask real questions of our friends in the GLBTQ community. Listen!

e. Pray for Jesus to give us the capacity to love!

2) We must fearlessly proclaim the truth that Christ proclaimed and embodied.

a. Speak the truth at appropriate times

b. Strive to be truly loving when you do speak

c. Make sure you do not exclude your personal sin or your hidden sin, when you speak abt truth.

d. Do you speak the truth to your best friend who is watching pornography on their computer, or your student leader who spends the night at their boyfriends or girlfriends room, apt?

e. Are you evaluating your own brokenness related to sexuality or judgement?

God does not need us to proclaim the Gospel, He allows us. And our community can begin to overcome the pain that we have enacted over the several generations.

Photo Book

2011-08-23T22:55:00.001-04:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

So what's his passion?

2010-10-21T01:16:00.000-04:00

I overheard a conversation the other day. A young man was talking to a dad about the dad's son, (a friend of the young man).

DAD: "I am pretty sure once we get him back here he will be able to settle down into a good job and he'll be fine."

YOUNG MAN: "Well what is Steven's (not his real name) passion? Does he have any idea?

DAD: "Passion? Passion! Does it have to be about passion? All I want him to do is to do what he's supposed to do. To get a good job, to take care of his wife, to raise a family. We never even thought about passion."

YOUNG MAN: "I just think unless he is doing something that he is passionate about he won't be happy. He won't be able to sustain himself. He won't be able to stay in it for the long term. And so he will continue to flounder."

I hear this conversation over and over. It seems like as we travelled this summer I kept hearing these thoughts.

It took on different forms. From BABY-BOOMERS I would hear - "Ok, I am so done with this day to day stuff. I never thought it would be like this. I anticipated a higher sense of satisfaction and accomplishment."
or "I thought it was about the money or things, but now I realize I just want to come home, sit on the deck with a few friends, or just watch football."

From BABY-BUSTERS I hear them saying: "I just want to be able to play with my kids."
or "I would like to try being Mr. Mom for a year or so."
or "I am tired of working for someone else, I just want to branch out on my own and start a ________________ (coffeehouse, small law firm, bookstore, music store, etc)."

From MILLENNIALS I hear: "I had this job, but it just wasn't my passion so I quit."
or "I have a lot of opportunities right now, but I don't want to do anything until I know for sure it is the right thing."
or "I just want to experience more of life before I have to settle down."

I think Boomers (and I 'are' one)wanted independence before all things. We were convinced that our parents never 'got-it'. So whether it was the 'radical burn down the establishment' mentality, or the 'I just gotta get a job' focus - we jumped out of college and jumped into the marketplace. And started our family, which might have broken down our idealism a bit. But we were paying bills, buying cars, using credit and seeking to enjoy life. So where was our faith? Well even though we might have had a strong firm commitment to Christ in the 70's now we relegated ourselves to just going... To church, to promisekeepers events, to women's bible studies, etc. And unfortunately a level of complacency set in.

When I think about Busters I realize things began to change in these years. All of a sudden a college degree was less influential than it had been before, people wanted and needed a masters degree or doctoral degree. The world got smaller. Travel was easier and more affordable. Money was more available. They experienced the world at younger levels. Both in all of it's diversity and in its conformity. They wanted more things, better things, acquiring them faster.

But loyalty decreased. Professional athletes changed teams practically every year! So why should the Busters stay with a company for a lifetime. In fact there was a large amount of corporate distrust, so to save their lives they needed to keep looking around for protection but also for more. Authenticity was the evaluation word for religion and churches for Busters. Small groups & house churches increased, but also Mega-Churches. This was also the age when many prominent pastors were noticed for their moral failure (similar to corporate distrust). We wanted authenticity, but we lacked discipline to grow in God.

Finally the Millennials, this current generation, they would be about 24 yrs old down to about 5, now. So what are some of the signs: graduate from high school and stay home, go to community college (and a guaranteed admission into a state school in 2 years), less affluent, awareness of the brokenness of society: war, racism, religious & sexual bigotry, pornography, The Cosby Show vs. Modern Family, The GONG Show vs. American Idol. And in the midst of this confusion and loss of roles there is this desire to "Follow your Passion"! Worship, Church & ministry has become program or theme driven. "My youth group takes me to the Domincan Republic (either to the beach or to build churches or both), and we have 1000 at our "mid-week" or "Shack127" or whatever clever name we can come up with. Faith is expressed by branding and marketing.

So what is my proposal: nothing has changed in 65 years. Being a follower of Christ is not just hard it is impossible. The "works" that were required in the 60's and 70's are the same today and our commitment to them will give us the same result.

1) Follow Christ
2) Read the Bible
3) Talk to God and listen to Him
4) Meet with other believers
5) Share what I am learning.

What are you keys to Passion?

What should we believe?

2010-07-29T13:41:00.001-04:00

In a recent exchange with a friend, we were talking about a public interview with a person who was fired because his personal views were different than the organization. It had to do with the fact that his views were becoming more liberal in a notably conservative organization. It was a Christian (some would say conservative/fundamental)organization.

For me, it begged the question: how do we handle diversity in the midst of the growing Christian community?

I have included my response to my friend with some minor edits.

"Very good interview. I really like the interviewer. She always does a great job of getting to the real person, rather than just the sensationalism. Once when she miscued on an interview, she came on the air and apologized and forced the interviewee to apologize as well! I was impressed.

A couple pointed comments:

1) Yes he was fired, but I do not believe this was his sole means of employment. I guess losing your job from a organization that you faithfully served for many years is very hurtful.
2) Organizations of the "religious right" have certainly lost credibility in the last 5 yrs. As has Dobson, FRC, moral majority, etc. And I think we have to ask is this good or bad?
3) yet the "religious right" are still holding to a remnant of loyalists, and they feel like that is a Biblical model. So I believe this core of loyalists, this remnant, as it were will remain loyal to the end.
4) these are hard issues. There is no one CHRISTIAN answer. The great value of the church is our unity in the midst of our diversity. You know this, we talk about it all the time.
5) I am an evangelical. I would even say I am a fundamentalist, in the proper use of that word.
6) does that mean I am a 6 day creationist? Does that mean I think adultery is acceptable and homosexuality is an abomination? Does that mean I do not think women can teach men from the pulpit? Does that mean I believe women must wear head coverings? I get confused over half these questions.
7) what is a fundamentalist today? A fundamentalist is a person who holds to the fundamentals of belief. A Christian fundamentalist, is one who holds to the basic tenets of Christianity. I think you are a fundamentalist! Really! The way you teach and model evangelism is a clear indicator that you are a fundy!
But fundamentalism has become a bad word. What it really means is a follower of Jesus Christ, who believes the Bible is authoritative, the trinity is real: Christ lived on earth & died so I could know God the Father and the Holy Spirit is active today.
8) all of this is confusing and hard! There are no easy answers."

Thoughts?

Friendships that last

2010-07-18T10:26:00.001-04:00

As part of this sabbatical, we have been reconnecting with old relationships. We are staying with friends from Germany who we met in 1981! That is just about 30 years! It has been so great to reminisce, to laugh, to talk about those old stories. Seeing those stories from respective points of view. It's been refreshing, relaxing and restorative.

Last night a colleague from the 80's (Dale) came over. We met her husband for the first time. All of us had a wonderful dinner and shared about the greatness and goodness of God. We talked about how good God had been to us. There are also sad times that happen in the midst of just doing life. Times of inexplicable pain. But we push through it, knowing and trusting that God is good! Eventually we will understand.

Dale was telling us last night about one of the relationships from those ministry days, a "club kid" who she kept a relationship with long after his high school days. She was able to speak truth into his life through college. She helped him through life transitions, bringing the authority of the Word of God into his life, helping him understand sovereignty. Many times this took them far away geographically, but that didn't matter.

Dale was there for his years of dating and falling in love. She helped officiate at his wedding. She was the god-mother for their first child. And she participated in his memorial service after he was killed in Iraq from an IED that hit the vehicle he was traveling in (3 weeks before his return to the USA). In the midst of the plans that were being made by his local church and by the Army, Dale contacted many of the friends from those days in Heidelberg to invite them to his memorial. Many came.

What an example of full service ministry! Dale began to care for this kid, because he showed up at a CLUB meeting. She saw how the gospel permeated his life because of his background and hearing the gospel spoken directly through high school. She continued to care for him and love him through college and eventually through his military career. She advised and discipled him through transitions, promotions, family matters, love and marriage and fatherhood. Now, it didn't just stop with this kid, she ministered to his parents and his little brother as well all along the way. She still maintains relationships with all of them.

This woman who I have known for 25+ years. Provides me with an example and a model of ministry that inspires me to reconnect with many folks that I have seen pass through!

How do you maintain relationships through the years? Who are you REALLY Facebook friends with?
What is a long-term relationship?

Reading this this summer...

2010-07-13T11:48:00.000-04:00

I just finished ~~The Accountable Man~~, Tom Eisenman. Why is it so hard for us men to build real friendships? Tom gives a very brief (some of us also do not like to read much)and practical primer with narrative story as well as clear application to begin to move deeper into the lives of our friends.

It takes prayer, intentionality & initiative to pull this off. But with Tom's guidelines I think it can be very achievable. One of the key points in the book is his description of prayer and intersession. It is very clear and easy to put into practice starting today.

Other key points is a great description of forming a covenant commitment, planning on time and agreement to going deeper. Also how to handle failure and brokenness.

This book has given me many great ideas on how to develop these key accountable relationships with peers as well as students I meet with.

The 2nd Appendix has a list of over 100 questions to get discussions started and moving.

I highly recommend this book.

" I " ministry

2010-07-12T10:54:00.000-04:00

It seems to me that it is hard to read a book, hear a sermon, talk to a minister where the primary subject is something other than the writer/speaker. It reminds me of that Toby lkeith song "I wanna talk about me, wanna talk about I, I wanna talk about number 1, oh me oh my!". Or something to that effect.

I certainly know the value of vulnerability and authenticity, (thoughts that will be reserved for another post). I mean even the great communicators, that you can get on podcasts, websites or CDs. It seems like it is more about them than it is about anything else, including Jesus. What is going on?

I have picked up a little moniker that I attribute to such messages. If someone asks me how was that conference when you heard "Mr famous person" my comment is: "Well it was a lot of "I Ministry".

Of course not always - I hear or read many books, articles, sermons where there is much to be gained and applied to personal faith. but it does seem like there is a lot of "I ministry" out there!

Now why is this bothering me: well it is a bit personal - (now I will engage in a little "I ministry"). Because this summer I am trying to get thoughts on paper from 37 years of ministry, and my desire is to make it about God, Jesus and people that I have met along the journey. But I am discovering that in many of the stories that I write the main subject is me! YUCK!

As I think about the story in my mind the main subject is God and His works. But when I write the same stories it ends up being about me and a verb. I said, I saw, I talked to, I heard, I went and on and on.

So the effort has been on trying to write a story then to go back and take the "I-s" out! It's quite humorous at times. Because sometimes when the I is gone the story seems empty (that is the opposite of what I am going for.

So I think this summer will be an exercise in personal discipline for me - not allowing "I" to be the central subject.

What do you do? How to you become more selfless as you live your life?

What is a Sabbatical?

2010-07-06T10:34:00.000-04:00

I am officially on Sabbatical! It is a short one. It will be about 8 weeks altogether and it will have several components. Sabbaticals are a privilege, a benefit that Intervarsity Christian Fellowship gives to employees, after 7 years of service.

It is a personal choice. In fact most staff never take one. Probably because most staff do not stay on staff for 7 years, let alone 25 years. So what is it? It has Biblical a well as academic applications and campus ministry encompasses both of those fields. It relates to God taking a Sabbath after 6 days of creating. Then there are the Levitical ordinances of taking a year after 6 years of work and then a Year of Jubilee after 49 years. It is literally a period of time away from work, to get a different look (at life, at ministry, at people). It is designed to encourage you to develop in a way that if you did not take one you would? Be less prepared to further the ministry.

I have had one other Sabbatical. It was in 1996. We went to Europe and visited missionaries and Christian leaders in 7 countries and I was looking at the global church. It was a huge investment for me. I really learned so much about the change in the church for the 21st century and also about Grace.

This year is different. I have been responding to the call of God for 37 years. A lot has happened in those years. And to be honest all of those stories and all of those discipling principles have stayed in my head. And my head is full! I want to spend this sabbatical getting those things out of my head and onto paper or text or screen or something!

So for my sabbatical I am writing! HA! Kindof a joke - because for many years I have made fun of staff who write because if you write you can't meet with as many students.

Zo I am beginning to write. Not everything will be in a blog, but some things will.

You can help me...

Do you have a thought or a principle that you remember that might be beneficial... Let me know either by comment or email...

NO, NO, NO!!! Gores: please say it ain't so

2010-06-01T16:26:00.000-04:00

I can't believe my eyes! The "model" political couple of the 20th century is calling it quits after not 7 years, not 15 years, not 25 years but 40 years!

What is going on? What are they thinking? Politics aside, I have admired this couple for about 30 years. They were always so openly romantic (obviously including "the Kiss"). They were supportive and together in the midst of difficulty and tragedy. It seemed like nothing phased them. They were in love above all else!

I remember when Tipper stood up for explicit language on music albums and CDs and was on the forefront of getting restrictions passed on sales to minors of explicit music, Al supported her. I remember various losses from the campaign trail and these two genuinely stood beside each other through it all. Who would have thought that from the Clinton years this would be the first primary couple to divorce?

And the reason? Really? They say in an email: "We have grown apart because of Al's travel schedule... And it is "mutual and mutually supportive". Oh come on now!!!

Yes marriage is hard! Yes divorce is rampant. But when you could have been a good role model, when you could have stepped up your responsibility, Mr Gore & Mrs Gore - instead you retreat and back away! You take the easy road...

Marriage tips:
1) Read 5 Love Languages by Gary ChapmanThe 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts
2) Read Love & Respect by Emerson Eggerich by Emerson Eggerichs (Author)Love & Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs (Hardcover)
3) Think more highly of your Spouse than your self (Philippians 2:4)
4) Communicate, Communicate, Communicate!!
5) Young Couple married or preparing for it - forget about this awful story and realize that only with God will your marriage succeed!

So what is the church today?

2010-05-11T19:40:00.000-04:00

At Rockbridge, I am in Small Group Vision Camp, there are 142 students in this track and 17 staff that are working to train them to lead small group Bible studies on campus in the fall. This group could be influencers and leaders of over 1000 students on 12 campuses throughtout Va., N. Carolina & S. Carolina. This is a pretty significant group of influencers, right?

In my small group here we are studying 1 Peter. Last night in our discussion we were talking about living stones and foundations like buildings. So I just asked the group a question... "So what is your view of the church, anyway?

Silence.... Finally one person said "You mean like a building?"

I responded, "Well not necessarily, but what do you think the church is? Is it a building? Is it a place? Is it people?" So for the next 15 minutes we talked about what we felt like the church is and isn't. We talked about the stereotypes. What we liked and didn't like about the church.

I learned many things from this discussion. But one think that resounded there. Is a huge discrepancy between my perception of the church and these students perceptions of the church! We need to get on board and begin to do some forward thinking about this issue. Because as we continue to spend millions of dollars on our buildings our followers are comfortable just meeting at Panera Cafe or a coffeehouse or a park. It seems like the primary elements of church is worship & word with Jesus Christ in the center.

So what is the church today?

Another semester in the books

2010-05-10T22:28:00.003-04:00

Oh Rockbridge,
a little slice of heaven!
Why is it like this?

Well part of it for me is my years of Young Life roots. I have been coming to YL camps since 1972! Practically every year. From Frontier to Silver Cliff to Saranac to Windy Gap and now Rockbridge! So many significant spitirual moments at each of those properties. Each ltime I am at a camp God meets me in an incredible way. Sometimes it is is in my personal reflection on a retreat of silence. Sometimes it is through a talk by a staff member (both YL and IV) who speaks a truth in an incredible way that cuts through to my heart. But it can be through a casual conversation on a porch, or the hot tub, or on the zipline tower. Conversations that open us up to vulnerability, that allowj God to move into the gaps in our times, the spaces in our lives.

It is also the abundance of nature, mountains, green fields, rustic old buildings, and a different view. A break from the norm that allows me just to take a step back and look at all that God has given me. And to listen... To listen to Him. To think about all those scenes that have gone ahead - in this past semester, past year, past 5 years all the way back as far as i can go.

Also, it is the clarity of relationships with Godly people that makes this place even more holy.. The quick reconciliation of brokenness. It is no longer about not talking to someone who has hurt me a month or 6 months from now. If someone has offended me today I will be reconciled with him or her tonight! Even those relationships with people that kind of bug me it is easy to rise to the occasion, serve together and let God do the work.

But in the context of the times apart from Rockbridge. Those times back "in the world". It is easy to let those annoying traits in others stay annoying. Brokenness stays broken and jealousy stays jealousy.

So coming to Rockbridge for these 2 weeks let's me be different enough that the time brings me one step closer to God.

A book review: Find Your Strongest Life, Marcus Buckingham.

2009-10-05T11:40:00.007-04:00

I just finished reading _Find Your Strongest Life_ by Marcus Buckingham. He is such a fascinating author. I am always intrigued by his content. Although this is a variation on a theme of his other books - 'Build on Strengths, not Weaknesses' - it is unique in that it focuses on women, in many different stages of life. He offers helpful ideas on how to advance in light of a culture that has many expectations placed on the role of women. The book is divided into 3 parts that breakdown to an analysis of the current cultural situation: how to develop 'Your Strongest Life'; & practical ideas on how to develop considering a number of life circumstances.

Buckingham's newest book provides some insight to the complexity of today's culture. I felt that his ideas were not totally gender exclusive.The Test included with the text is helpful for men & women. It gave me good ideas on how to develop personally and some ideas on how to encourage women that I meet with and work with. I think every woman should read and know this content and take the Strong Life test.

Oh John the Baptist, What a guy?

2009-09-02T10:52:00.003-04:00

I just started reading Mark. "Jesus in Fast Forward" What if you knew a guy like John the Baptist? (J the B) He must have created quite a wake!

Before Jesus is even 'around' (born but not in ministry yet) John is going at it. He brings a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. John is aware of man's brokenness; his need to confess and his need to repent! And rather than just give folk a "duty to do" he calls them to CHANGE! Radical Change!

Sure he starts with a religious act - the actual process of getting wet (like a washing, I think) but his real call to change is by stopping your evil, broken & sinful ways and becoming a new person. Becoming a new person - not just based on your own work, but by reliance on God, the one true God who J the B was calling us to follow.

J the B knows his role - to bring the message that prepares the world for The Lord (the Christ). He will do whatever is necessary to accomplish his task. Think about the ridicule he sustained. He hung out in the desert region. He wore clothes made of Camel's hair (I don't think it looked like a nice blazer), he feasted on Locusts, dipped in honey (Anthony Bourdain, step aside). He was a character.

I believe, at least partly, that is what attracted people from all over to come see him (and hear his message). He was authentic until the end. He served his Master.

So what can we learn from J the B?

1) Know your Master.
2) Be authentic.
3) Be prepared to give a reason for the hope that you have.
4) Be provocative, after all the Gospel certainly is.

"A Tribute to My Best Friend" by Pat Morley

2009-08-31T11:57:00.001-04:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A Tribute to My Best Friend
Volume 337
August 31, 2009
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My best friend, Ken Moar, died August 19, 2009, according to his obituary, "from complications of a long and happy life" -- his own words. His body was 90 years old, but his mind was as lithe as any man half his age.

Ken was a World War II hero, piloting Lancaster Bomber missions for the Royal Canadian Air Force. Of 17 pilots who went to England in 1943, he was the sole survivor.

I first met Ken when I was a freshman Christian and he was a sophomore. Our church was starting a new program of evangelism and discipleship. They asked Ken and his wife, Lee, to head up the evangelism program. They asked my wife, Patsy, and me to head up the basics class for new Christians. And, wisely, they stuck all of us together in a leadership Bible study together.

I soon found myself at a men's retreat at Windy Gap, North Carolina. Tom Skinner was the main speaker. He said if you want to change your community, become to someone else what you want your community to become, and that will create a model that is so powerful that others will be attracted to it.

The next Sunday, I saw Ken standing in the hall at church. His usual sanguine self, he cut a striking, masculine silhouette against the ordinary men who listened in rapt attention to one of his tall tales -- he loved to laugh and make others laugh. When he had a moment alone, I told Ken what Tom had said and asked if he would like to meet once a week for lunch.

"Sure!" he said, and we did that for the next 32 years.

Someone once asked, "What do you talk about?" We talked about our spiritual journeys, our families, our hopes and dreams, our troubles, and an occasional gripe about the direction the world is headed. But most of all we talked about Jesus, and we prayed for all who needed help or salvation. I don't know how much we changed our community, but I know we changed each other.

So long, Ken. You were a great, irreplaceable friend, and I will always love you.
Yours for changed lives,

Patrick Morley, PhD
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Vision for 2009-2010

2009-08-26T17:23:00.007-04:00

This was sent to all IVCF@W&M leaders in July:

....As you know, the fall is a busy time for our Intervarsity chapter, and Exec spent a week during Rockbridge trying to figure out the best way to carry out God’s plans for the fall on campus.

To us, a very important first step was to try to define who we would like to be as a chapter. Rest assured, this is not who we are yet, but it is who we feel God is calling us to be on our campus and in our lives. The definition we have come up with is: We are a community following Christ with all we’ve got that strives to love, challenge and encourage each other and our campus to pursue God. This is what we would constantly strive to be more like: working to become more like who Christ is.

The second thing we came up with at Rockbridge is what our focus will be for the upcoming academic year. The focus is something that is more goal-oriented and is to be accomplished within a set time-frame. This year’s focus is: deepening our Christ-centered community by focusing on spiritual disciplines and sharing it with others. The three-fold goals—community, spiritual disciplines, and reaching out to share Jesus with others—will give our chapter some direction and focus in the way that we pursue God as a community. Some of the things that we will look to do under this focus include: partnering with other campus organizations on several events, making socials more widely accessible, encouraging a lifestyle of discipleship within our chapter, and working on our understanding of and focus on spiritual disciplines.

We have chosen a theme verse that we feel resonates with our focus for the year. It is 1 Peter 3:15 and reads, “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” We definitely want to acknowledge that we may not be the suffering church for whom this letter was intended (which becomes evident in the verses surrounding this one), but as Christians, we are tested in our faith every day and want to be able to answer the hard questions asked of us.

One thing is certain: these ideas sound great to us, but we will need your support to realize them. It is important to note that because the focus is crafted for a full academic year, it must be something that the whole chapter supports and works toward. In a semester, the current Exec team will shift, and we want to ensure that the passion and pursuit of Jesus that are behind our definition and focus are something you can get behind. Please always feel free to approach us with questions, comments, concerns—we’d love to hear what you think!

We are praying for you and cannot wait to see you back on campus in the fall. We pray that as the summer progresses God will continue to transform your life as you grow closer to Him and reflect more of His character. We are counting on you to encourage and share, God’s love, with people that others of us will never be close to. These goals are not easy, but as we rely on God we will be able to see Him provide for us and see Him transform the lives of those around us. IT IS TIME TO BE EXCITED, THE LORD IS RISEN!

In Christ,
David Adams, Chapter President
Katie Bradshaw, Large Group Coordinator
Marynn Skelton, Outreach Coordinator: Evangelism
Danny Habersetzer, Outreach Coordinator: Service
Ben Boyd: Community Coordinator

I am very proud of my team!!

A letter to Prospective Students from the IVCF@W&M website

2009-08-24T13:32:00.003-04:00

Dear Prospective Students:

Welcome to W&M! We know the process of choosing a college has been difficult. You are probably trying to decide what God's will is for you. Your choices have probably been between a Christian school, a private school or a state school like W&M. Two of the questions you may have are: Can my faith in Jesus survive a secular university like W&M? and Will I find a community of friends in college who will encourage me to mature as a person and in my faith and beliefs?

Perhaps we have a bias, but yes your faith in Jesus Christ can not only survive but mature while you are here at W&M. There are many activities that are designed by InterVarsity as well as the other Christian Ministries on campus to do just that. As you look through this website you will see many (not all) of the programs and leadership opportunities that IV does at W&M.

We work hard in the first couple weeks of school to meet you and help you acclimate to the campus. There are cook-outs, fellowship meetings, bible studies in your residence halls designed to help you get to know other freshmen as well as upperclassmen who can help you grow in your faith. Within the first month of classes there will be a New Student Retreat, that will introduce you to other freshmen, some transfers, and a bunch of the leaders in InterVarsity. Each Friday, there will be a worship/fellowship time (Large Group). It is a great way to end the week. It gives you a real chance to focus or re-focus on the Lord and begin the weekend with fellow Christians on campus. We usually have a "social" event after "Large Group". These are open to the whole campus and are designed for fun and to help us build community with each other and others who aren't involved in IV.

W&M students tend to associate with their neighbors from their freshmen halls. This is why we have freshmen only Small Groups led by 2 upperclassmen. This gives you a deeper chance to bond with other students from your residence hall as well as hang out with some cool upperclassmen leaders. Many of these groups stay together after Freshmen year. Eventhough you may no longer live together, there will still be a way for you to stay in community for the rest of college. And from our experience, many of these relationships stay together long after graduation. In addition to this opportunity, the family of InterVarsity allows many opportunities to bond on campus and to form deep and significant relationships that will help you honor God in your day-to-day lives as well as to help pick you up when you are struggling.

In your Campus Visits, please feel free to come to Large Group (6:30PM Friday evenings in Millington 150, just to the right of the new SWEM Library). If you would like to be housed for the weekend with an InterVarsity Student please contact Chris Sloan or Lauren Ellis can also arrange for a brief visit with our Campus Minister, if you would like.

A letter to parents from the IVCF@W&M website

2009-08-23T22:52:00.002-04:00

Dear parents:

We’re excited that your son or daughter is considering William and Mary as they move into the next phase of their life. If you’re anything like our parents, or our staff worker Marty and his wife Carolyn, you’re probably approaching this transition with a potent mixture of pride, excitement, trepidation, and outright fear. Carolyn likes to tell the story of taking her first son to college, and her unshakeable fear that if she didn’t make his bed for him that first day, it would never get made. From there, he wouldn’t get enough sleep, he wouldn’t eat enough, his grades would suffer, and he wouldn’t make any friends. Needless to say, she made sure that the bed was made.

Unfortunately, we all know that ensuring the spiritual well-being of your soon-to-be college student isn’t nearly that easy. Nobody rousts freshmen out of bed for church on Sunday mornings, or schedules them in for middle of the week fellowship with Christian peers. Late-night WaWa runs and serious mid-afternoon naps don’t seem to be a conducive environment to a disciplined life of spiritual contemplation.

However, here at William and Mary, we believe that InterVarsity Christian Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for students to pursue God, God’s purposes, and fellowship with His people. We believe that this extends not only across the 4 (or more) years of college, but across the following 40 years of vocation, whether that’s in the home, academia, government, the marketplace, or in full-time professional ministry. IVCF has been at W&M since 1964, when a group of students asked a biology and chemistry professor to help them build a chapter that would reach the campus with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Since then, thousands of students have been ministered to through weekly large group meetings, small group Bible studies, prayer meetings, service opportunities, and outreach to the campus.

From the first moment they arrive on campus, IV members will be there to help incoming freshmen move into the dorms and get acclimated to college life. Each dorm has a small group Bible study led by two upperclassmen who have been preparing and praying since their week-long training the previous spring. Cookouts, Frisbee games, beach days, and plain old hanging out characterizes the first few weeks of the school year (you know, when we’re not studying our eyeballs out. Seriously.) Every Friday, the chapter gathers together for worship, prayer, and teaching from God’s Word.

Yet IV isn’t just a community to get "plugged in" with that keeps students from making poor choices. Ultimately, our task is to move students closer to the life of Christ here on earth, one marked by inward devotion to knowing God and the outward practice of being His hands and feet to the campus and to the world. To that end, IV is constantly striving to equip its members to be friends to those who want nothing to do with the church. We’re always seeking to proclaim and demonstrate the Gospel in ways that will cause our friends to stop and consider taking Jesus’ invitation to take a step with Him on life’s journey, whether that’s through serving them pancakes on the last day of classes or inviting them to learn about Christ at the Alpha course (http://www.alphausa.org/).

Furthermore, as a ministry at the best small state institution in the United States, we have a unique opportunity to produce true world-changers, men and women who will impact every aspect of business, government, academics, art, science, and the church for the Gospel. We seek to learn, do, and pursue justice through events like 30 Hour Famine or the Williamsburg homeless reality tour. Every spring break, students have the chance to serve the inner cities of Camden, NJ and Wilmington, DE through our service trips supporting the ministry of Urban Promise (http://www.urbanpromiseusa.org/).

A little bit more at peace about your son or daughter’s future at William and Mary? We sure hope so. We just celebrated our 45th anniversary as a chapter here, and we’re looking forward to 45 more years of seeing God impact lives and bring glory to His own name. Of course, if you have any more comments, questions, or concerns (and as a parent, you probably do) then you can shoot a quick e-mail over to our staff worker Marty Purks (mepurk@wm.edu), or the new student coordinators that are listed here. They’d love to talk to you more about IV, William and Mary, and probably just about anything else you wanna know about. Thank you, and God bless.

Woodstock '69 - "Fail" as the Providence of God

2009-08-14T10:50:00.007-04:00

Yea I was one of those guys! In the early 70's there were many of us who said - "Yea I almost went to Woodstock,

No, but really I almost went!

I was 1 hour away from departing with my friend Wayne O'Brien. Here is how it went for us. It was really Wayne's idea. He knew about the concert and all of the hoopla surrounding it. It was a summer afternoon. We were hanging out on our little suburban street corner, just talking trash as usual. I was getting ready to start Football Practice on Monday.

Wayne said: "Do you wanna go to this concert this weekend?"
Me: "Who's playing?"
Wayne: "Lots of guys: Johnny Winter, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin and others I don't really know!"
Well I thought Johnny Winter & Jimi Hendrix were the coolest, They were hip & really groovy! So I said: Where is it?" Without batting an eye he said: "New York."
With all of the courage that I could muster I said "How would we get there?"
Wayne said, "Hitch." (which of course meant get out on the road with our thumbs in the air & wait until someone picked us up). He continued: "It'll be a cinch, everybody's doing it."
Me: "Are your folks cool with it?"
Wayne: "Oh yea as long as I show up for school in September, they don't care what I do. How about yours."
Me: "Oh yea, they won't even be home until later tonight. As long as I'm back for practice, they'll be fine! I'll leave them a note."

So he went home to pack, I did the same. We agreed to meet in about an hour. Now I have to say: I HAD NO IDEA WHAT I HAD JUST COMMITTED TO DO! I had been to a couple band concerts in downtown Richmond. Woodstock was something else all together! It was not even in NYC. It was way up in upstate New York! My parents would have gone berserk!

About a half hour past when we were supposed to meet. I saw Wayne's mom's car coming towards me - I really thought: "Cool, Wayne got us a ride." She stuck her head out of the window and said: "Wayne, won't be joining you on your trip." It seemed to me (as an astute 15 year old) - "Hmm, Wayne made her think it was my idea." Then she turned around and went back down the street.

Well, I had no idea how to get to Woodstock. I probably would have ended up in Woodstock, VA. So I just went back in my house unpacked my stuff, tore up the note and went on with my day-to-day. Until Saturday morning when I saw the Headlines of the Richmond Times Dispatch: "Concert Shuts Down Upper New York State" - with a picture of THOUSANDS of rockers listening to Country Joe & the Fish (one of the Woodstock acts).

Now how does this 'epic-fail' relate to the providence of God?

In 1969, my main concerns were Football, Girls, Music, Food & Friends. God was nowhere in my mind. Not even a blip on the screen, as far as I knew! It was that Fall that Coach Bill Bosher came to a few of us and said he wanted to start an FCA chapter at Tucker High School. I became "Chaplain" of that 'Huddle'. Two years later I met Doug Holladay who introduced me to the Gospel. Which has led to this 38 year journey of walking with Jesus Christ.

But I was thinking recently: What if Wayne & I had gotten away from parents, Virginia and gone to Woodstock? I am not sure my path would have led so directly to Jesus.

Oh yeah I understand providence and the fact that God had already chosen me (YEAH God!). But what a different 'Long Strange Trip It would have been' (thank you Jerry Garcia).

God had other plans for me! I am convinced that by staying in Richmond that August day I missed a great concert, but God in his infinite wisdom allowed me to walk into his presence a couple years later. If I had gone to Woodstock - it would have been a different route.

God's sovereignity is sure, but circumstances are interpretive.

Franciscan Benediction

2009-08-14T08:11:00.000-04:00

Franciscan benediction.

May God bless you with discomfort at easy answers, half truths, and superficial relationships, so that you may live deep within your heart.

May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom and peace.

May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and war, so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and to turn their pain into joy.

And may God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in this world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done to bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.

Amen.

Pancake House!! from the Flat Hat!

2009-04-30T08:48:00.003-04:00

Confusion Corner: Pancake supper: better than blowout

By Kevin Mooney April 28, 2009
I stumble through the doors of the Sadler Center at the usual hour, midnight or close to it. The line is long, but we patiently — though perhaps not quietly — slink our way through the Sadler Center entrance way. The semester’s been a tough one, and by now we’re sick of it all. There’s only one thing that can help. And them’s pancakes.
Pancake House, the night at the end of the semester where pancakes are provided free of cost to all who come to the Sadler Center, is really one of the greater traditions at the College of William and Mary, right behind a combined commitment to academic achievement and Sliders Sundays at the Caf. Students have finished their classes, not yet started to fret over their finals, and have but one goal in mind: We’ve got a fever, and the only prescription is more pancakes.

As is probably obvious, Pancake House and I have a sort of shared understanding, we get each other. If you’ve attended the event in past semesters, chances are I’ve attempted to explain to you — ad nauseum, my ardent love of pancakes — and of any house that would choose to produce them. Perhaps I was a tad incoherent at the time, drunk as I was off the many-splendored syrups of the House, but the point is no less valid. I’ve taken it as my goal to convince as many as possible, not just to attend Pancake House — such a decision is too simple to even be considered — but to understand it, to appreciate it, to love it.

Part of the magic of Pancake House is its timing. It bestows pancakes on a population that is in particularly dire need of them — some who’ve dreamed of them for weeks, some whose physical well-being the next morning is contingent upon it. And sure, one would only have to wait mere hours for the SC to begin serving pancakes the following Saturday morning, but now is not the time to wait. Today: Blowout? Last Day of Classes? The day several high-functioning alcoholics are born? Call it what you may, it is not a time for waiting. It is a time for action, a time for pancakes.

This may seem like a trivial event to some, something to be taken lightly. However, this is far from the case. Something important is happening here. It’s a utopia of sorts — a coming together of minds, a celebration of our combine freedom from academic burden. And we’ve chosen the most noble of foods — egalitarian in its shape, but individual in its choice of toppings — around which to celebrate.

Yet more importantly, it unites two groups of people who would, in all other circumstances, keep entirely separate. Let’s call them the weary and the perky; those in need of pancakes and those providing them. It’s a symbiotic relationship, really (I mean, who else would they make pancakes for?). Each comes together to form a community — a substantial, albeit fleeting one — that exists outside of mere society. We’ve all come to a you-scratch-my-back-I’ll-just-sit-here-while-that-happens sort of agreement. Everybody wins.

What if the world could be one great, big pancake house? What if we could, if only momentarily, put aside all our petty differences and work together towards a common goal, which is getting me some pancakes. What a wonderful place that would be.

Now, I’m not going to pretend I know how Pancake House works. I feel like no one really does. It’s a mystery to mere mortals such as myself — to be marveled at, but never fully understood, like Stonehenge or the Chupacabra. We may never know just how, or why, Pancake House came to be, but still we will rejoice. And there shall be syrups. Syrups of every shade and taste.

So come, eat drink and be merry. For tomorrow, we die of exhaustion.

Kevin Mooney is a Flat Hat Confusion Corner columnist. He rejoices in syrup options.

A Personal Application

2009-03-17T12:21:00.002-04:00

This is a recent post from a friend of mine who blogs over at Withoutwax.tv I was challenged to 'take the challenge' perhaps you are too! We are only a day behind. Let me know if you are in!

We have been camped out in Matthew 6:33 where Jesus said “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

When it comes to seeking first the Kingdom of God one area of my life I’ve been failing is simply time with God.

We live in a day of unprecedented opportunities to stimulate our minds. We have blogs, television, and 24-hour news. We have ipods, dvd players, and radios in our cars. Everywhere we go there is some kind of message trying to bombard our minds. And honestly, I’ve allowed all the noise to keep me from seeking God as I should.

Francis Chan said,

We think He’s a great Savior, but not a great role model. The American church has abandoned the most simple and obvious truth of what it means to follow Jesus: You actually follow His pattern of life.

One of the the obvious patterns of Jesus’s life was time with God. Over and over again in the Gospels we see where Jesus would “withdraw” to be alone with his Father. And this pattern while repeated over and over by Jesus has been missing in my life as of late.

I bet I’m not alone. So here comes the 28 day challenge. I noticed there just happens to be 28 days between now and Easter. There also happens to be 28 chapters in the book of Matthew. What if we committed together to just read one chapter a day?

This is our opportunity to “seek first the Kingdom of God” together. I’ve never tried anything like this here on Without Wax, but I thought it would be a great way to hold each other accountable. I’ll try to periodically blog about certain observations from the texts we’re reading through.

Will it make a difference? You’ll never know unless you try.

Chapter one starts today!

What does my soul tell me about myself?

2009-02-16T14:30:00.003-05:00

This question was asked on a Staff day of Spiritual Retreat. It was hard to answer. I guess I do not usually talk to my soul. But I thought it was worth a shot.

So Soul... What do you say? How'm I doin?

Well Marty, there is some good news and some bad news.

First the bad news... You have a lot of room for improvement before these earthly days are over. You are making some headway, but you are still trying to direct me (Marty's soul) through your day to day events - especially the difficult ones. For some reason you are convinced that you know better about running your life than the One who saved you does. I'm serious! You are constantly telling Him about how you need this and help with that. And if it wasn't for this circumstance, then life (for you) would be so much better. But He already knows what is best for you. He has already gone over it in His mind (the Mind of God, get it?). So part of your life needs to help you re-establish connection with my (Marty's soul) work with the Holy One to guide & protect you. Be patient dear one, We are at work bringing you into full glory! So that when these earthly days are over, you will be prepared to walk from this Kingdom living into His Kingdom Glory!

Now the good news, You have begun to learn to talk with Him. We have been doing it together. I know it is hard and different. --- do you remember when you were learning to play racquetball, how weird it felt in all ways. You couldn't turn your arm right. You couldn't run right. You had hand-eye coordination problems. But eventually you got it - you even had that wicked Z-serve, one inch off the floor in the left front wall about 90% 0f the time! --- That is what this new prayer time is all about. Keep at it: Pray His words back to Him. Set apart a bit of time just to listen to His Voice (remember you have to 1st empty your mind of that schedule thing and that To Do list thing, that's what the 3X5 card is for). Oh also, don't forget to read the prayers of the 'older men'. Remember I am going to teach you that there is a way to talk to God that is even sweeter than that Z-Serve!

Power & Constraint

2009-01-30T10:37:00.003-05:00

I have a friend who designs Wakeboards - innovative ones that are easy to get up on and a slightly different format, (you can face forward, rather than sideways). They are about to go mass market pretty soon.

His innovations continue - he is an 'inventor' to the core! One day as he was testing his board he noticed, on a jetski, the plume of H2O that flies out the back & swings around like some kindof tail. He wants that on his Wakeboard! So he has been in design mode creating systems that will force the river under the board (also giving it more balance) and out the back in a CONSTRAINED force that will plume out behind the riders feet! It is so cool!

So he has been placing all kinds of tubes & funnels under the board (and through the back) and getting a variety of results. If the funnel is too big it pools under the board making it less efficient. If the funnel is too small the plume is a trickle - and not as cool looking.

Well this got me to thinking about Jesus & the love of God. You know that verse "For the Love of God CONSTRAINS us." (2 Corinthians 5:14). So here is the image I get: Just like the Wakeboard has all that power of H2O driving under the board and being constrained into a tight stream out of the back - so is the Love of God in my life!

The Love of God is immeasurable. It is too abundant for any human to understand. Did you know that while you were still a sinner (standing on the opposite side from God) He died for you (Romans 5:8) - so that you might know Him?! As I go through my days skimming the surface of life - He provides an immeasurable force - that keeps me afloat, keeps me moving, keeps me disciplined (think about Peter walking on the water).

And then there is that cool plume - of God's constrained love that forces out of my life into whatever situation I face. So for instance... To love the hard to love person - God's constrained love pouring through my life gives me the ability to love him. To speak the truth of what I know about God to those that don't know it. I might lack courage but God's constrained love gives me the courage to initiate and speak and he even provides the right words.

So what is my response? Really, it is nothing. I don't have to do anything. But it will certainly help if I can make sure I don't "cork" the plume.

Ask Him to allow His love to flow powerfully through our lives! Oh yeah and try not to lose balance.

Spiritual Life, Is it like my car?

2008-12-10T11:05:00.005-05:00

I drive a Toyota Celica.

I love it.

I cannot go to a gas station or a shopping center parking lot without someone coming up to me and talking to me about "My Car." Stuff like - "I had one of those back in '99." Or "Wow, is that a Porsche?" (I'm not kidding!). or "That was my dream car in High School." or "Love the Toyota, man!"

Externally, My car is a beauty! There are a couple dings, or places where paint is peeling. But those just give it character. It fact those are symbols of the battle that the car has been in. But other than those character-building scars the car looks GREAT! And I know that because of all the people that affirm my identity for driving the car. I feel 'cooler' when I drive my car!

Now the Celica, has another persona. It is old. It has 210,000 miles. There are things that are not going well for the car. Actually some of the things could be repaired, but for a number of reasons I just let them go. Why?

First, it runs OK without the repair.

Second, the repairs are costly.

Third, as compared to other cars on the road the Celica looks pretty good.

Fourth, no one will notice if I make the repair or not.

I have learned to work around the quirks in the car. So at times when someone is in the car with me I feel like I need to explain the problems to my new passenger. In reality, the passengers could probably care less, but because the car is so excellent on the outside I feel the need to justify what is going on internally.

So what's so wrong?

Well 1st, the transmission is going. It's an automatic. And it has lost the transitional gear. Roughly it has lost the ability to shift from 1st to 2nd to 3rd. So I have figured out a way to go directly from 1st to 3rd. I have adjusted my driving style so that I don't need to use 2nd gear! In order to restore 2nd gear the transmission needs major surgery! The car is probably worth it, but I just do not have the money to do it.

Next, the car takes a long time to start. It has to warm up before the engine will idle on its own. The best Toyota repair guy in town, can't trim the idle correctly. When I asked him about it he said in his best broken english - "Your car is old, leave foot on gas pedal, $200 dollars.

Next, the sunroof is broken. Not only does it not open, but after a big rain, it leaks a waterfall the 1st time I put on brakes. Usually surprising me because I forget about it between rainstorms. And surprising a passenger who sits in the wet seat.

There are a number of other things and new problems are popping up everyday.

So how does this relate to my spiritual life? Well I became a Christian in March 1972. It was a pretty radical transformation. I mean I went from going in one direction, very satisfied, to going in the complete opposite direction with several major improvements. I immediately stopped cussing & I began to have compassion for people that I previously didn't like.

So I learned all the good things to do as a young believer. Read the Bible, pray, memorize scripture, church, disciple & be discipled, journal, etc. And I was good! I advanced through the ranks of the Christian community and was deemed a Christian leader at a young age. I was on committees, led Bible studies, led Young Life clubs, helped start a church, shared my faith with non-believers and did all the "right things." So externally I looked like a Toyota Celica! People commented on my faith and my deeds done. And I felt "cool".

Sure there were a few dings and rough edges, but those just added to my character. They were like battle scars.

Internally, there were a few things that were not going well for my spiritual life.

So as you follow this analogy... There are things wrong on the inside that no one sees. I run fine without the repairs. Why don't I do the "soul work" necessary to be running well on the inside:

First, I do OK without the repairs.

Second the repairs will be costly.

Third as compared to other Christians I still look and act pretty good.

Fourth, I can live without anyone noticing if I make the repairs.

So what is wrong?

Well first I do well in the whole Bible reading Bible study area. It is a huge priority and I teach others how to do it, but my conversations with God are weak at best. It's like trying to live spiritually without second gear.

Secondly, I do well when I get started in the morning, but my "idle" has more to do with output than intake. In other words my "soul time" is frequently more connected to the ministry than personal. So I read and study so that I have something to offer students.

Thirdly, I leak, like the sunroof. I don't retain the spiritual nurture that I try to retain. It goes in one part of my life and goes out another without ever staying around long enough to make a difference.

I have made a repair plan this Christmas. I am going to do the costly repairs to begin to get my soul to be in good shape. The Celica will have to wait.

LAC(K)

2008-10-14T08:36:00.004-04:00

Oh so much to say...

I will start with the most recent. In a conversation just yesterday, I was talking to a senior at the college and a recent graduate. The graduate is hard at work and accomplishing great things. Let's talk about that (his life) for a minute.----

On campus, for all 4 years this fellow was an active part of ministry. He had much energy and much enthusiasm. He had a vision to reach the lost, but also was intent on building a significant community. He had a core small group that met for the entire time of college - in fact they still meet on occasions after graduation. He was always involved in ministry leadership and made a key impact on the programs he was involved with. He invited friends to be with him - to learn more about following Christ. He was intentional and generous in time and resources.

Since graduation, he has continued to be involved in ministry. He is involved in the local church, assists with a youth group, occasionally meets with the pastor. He continues to connect with his core community from college. He has developed new communities - a couple new roommates, new church friends and people from work. He is active in community sports - as a way to recreate as well as to be involved in the world (building relationships for the Gospel).

Yet there is a difference in his, I can't think of the right word or concept here, focus, maybe, satisfaction - hmm! I'm at a loss... At any rate he is not as satisfied in his efforts at spiritual growth as he was in college. Things happened so much faster in college and the buzz surrounding an activity generated so fast on campus. Also, the pool was smaller - the focus was on the 1 sq. mile that is W&M. Now, in the marketplace, he deals with an area about 50 sq. miles. Also rather than an age span of 18-25 years old he now deals with a spread of 23-50 years old. It's not that the ministry he is doing is any less significant, but it seems like a whole lot harder to detect growth or movement.

As for the senior, he is at the other end of the ministry spectrum. On campus much of the significant work revolves around his community. Every day he is in significant discussions/ Bible studies on the things of God. He has the disposable time and the core relationships to facilitate this discussion. But his apprehensions are related to what is the next step in his life. Is it the ministry, the marketplace, the mission field or more education? And how will he grow spiritually when he makes this transition? The easy answer is whatever the destination the Lord in His faithfulness will take him on a much different path. It could be harder or easier. But there is no place in God's kingdom for encores. This time, in college is used as preparation for whatever the next step is.

I have thoughts about how the Church is not ready for the onslaught of new graduates - yet the new graduates are ready and energetic enough to take on the church. I'll reserve these thoughts for a later post.

So what did I offer these 2 men, Ugh, I think I failed miserably in my advice, although I think I listened well. What would I say if I could recapture the moment?

1) Go to the place where you can grow in dependence on God the most.

2) Read the Word, every day. It is a lost discipline.

3) Be intentional about relationships - old friends as well as new ones.

4) Find a Barnabas, find a Timothy.

5) Pray without ceasing.

-504

2008-09-16T10:38:00.002-04:00

WOW, what a day!

Several large money centers collapsed or almost. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 4.4%. The lowest point since everyone sold their stocks on 9/11/01 & 9/12/01. Things & institutions that we relied on are disappearing.

I was in a conversation last night with someone who felt like this was the end. She wasn't reassured when I said - "Oh yea sooner to be with Jesus!"

So what is it? Is it the signs of the end? Well it could be. And I don't want to rule it out. I'm preparing... Asking forgiveness of those I've hurt, Confessing sin to God, speaking the Gospel to those who need to hear it, getting "Oil for my lamps", as it were!

But it could also be a huge "buying opportunity" - just kidding, kindof!

It could also be the radical reaction of many greedy people making too many stupid decisions. Also taking unjust advantages of those who really should not have been leveraging their lives & life savings for what seems like a little equity.

Golly Day! You & I both know that if you loan money to someone who does not have the long term capability to repay it - then you consider that a "gift". When you offer tons of people money for property (collateral) then you are putting your equity at risk! You might end up with a lot of property - which you won't be able to distribute. And no cash...

When we (not me, of course) as money-lenders take advantage of those who are trying to make it work, by charging huge interest rates, when they have limited resources to repay then our greed dominates our compassion and we end up with a lot of bad loans (gifts, as an example).

When we have re-acquired overvalued property that the main population does not want to purchase. Then we've hurt 2 people - the former possessors of the property who are over their heads in debt and those who now have the overvalued property they can't sell.

Greed dictates our lifestyle.

Wouldn't it be nice to revert to the old testament model of The Year of Jubilee? Every 49 years all debt is forgiven and all property goes back to the original owners. This really decreases the overall drive for greed & possession.

But what do we do now that we do not live in the year of Jubilee?

Pray for wisdom.
Look for opportunities to help people see Jesus.
Don't be stupid about money.
Pay off as much debt as you can.
Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind & strength!

I'm not an economist, or the son of a prophet, but I did stay in a Holiday Inn last night!

A Christian's Prayer

2008-09-10T10:07:00.002-04:00

Blessed God,
Ten thousand snares are mine without and within, defend thou me;
When sloth and indolence seize me, give me views of heaven;
When sinners entice me, give me disrelish of their ways;
When sensual pleasures tempt me, purify and refine me;
When I desire worldly possessions, help me to be rich toward thee;
When the vanities of the world ensnare me, let me not plunge into new guilt and ruin;
May I remember the dignity of my spiritual release,
never be too busy to attend to my soul,
never be so engrossed with time that I neglect the things of eternity;
thus may I not only live but grow towards towards thee.
Form my mind to right notions of religion, that I may not judge of grace by wrong conceptions, nor measure my spiritual advances by the efforts of my natural being.
May I seek after an increase of divine love to thee,
after unreserved resignation to thy will,
after extreme benevolence to my fellow creatures,
after patience and fortitude of soul,
after a heavenly disposition,
after a concern that I may please thee in public and private.
Draw on my soul the linements of Christ, in every trace and feature of which thou wilt take delight, for I am -
thy workmanship, created in Christ Jesus,
thy letter written with the Holy Spirit's pen,
thy tilled soil ready for the sowing, then harvest.

From The Valley of Vision, p.109

New Creation...

2008-08-28T12:51:00.002-04:00

I have been mulling over 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 this week. Well actually I am speaking on it tomorrow night at InterVarsity's Large Group.

So the first verse says: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he or she is a new creation. The old has gone, the new has come!" This was the first verse I committed to memory, using the Navigators Topical Memory System. And in that day, in my newness in Christ it meant so much! I could leave behind all of the junk of my life. I could be made NEW, a new creation as it were.

Those things that got me down could now be turned over to God - He was the one re-making me! So anger, fear, envy, jealousy, lust, pride - all of those old things that controlled me could be GONE. my life would be marked by the Newness that was part of God's kingdom! I would be a man of love, a man of prayer, a man of the Bible. I would preach the Gospel at all times and use words only when necessary. I would pet dogs, hold kittens (well maybe not that), help old ladies across the street, feed the hungry, care for the infirmed and on and on.

I was really looking forward to this new life. Now 36 years later, How am I doing? Oh yes, He has made me a new creation! There is nothing of old Marty (or was it Martin, back then) left. I think differently. I act differently. I am different. I am a child of the King. I know it everyday. There is nothing like it! And even if I were not "paid to be good", I would still be marked by Him, His grace, His love.

But I still carry around those old sins, those OLD traits that used to drag me down before He made me new. How can that be? I am still self-centered, still envious, still angry - like yesterday when my computer got a virus that crippled the OS! ##@$%%@@**)(##!

Well no easy answers on this one - but perhaps... Is this the way He knows that I will continue to be dependent on Him. If he completely made me NEW, I would be perfect or close to it and not have a need to come to Him regularly. But if I remain a NEW CREATION in a flawed state in order to continue to be made new I will have to continue to come to Him and rest In Him!

what is this tendancy to be Hush-Hush when someone becomes a Christian

2008-08-19T09:47:00.000-04:00

Yes I don't get it!

It seems to me that one of the greatest celebrations that can be had is the entry of someone into the kingdom of God. Especially since for many of us - the subject has been the object of prayer for weeks, months, or even years. For some reason, it seems like we do not express this miracle very well.

We make it seem like it is no big deal - "Thanks for joining." or "You'll have to come back next week." In reality, it seems like this event is one that has all the angels in heaven rejoicing! Can you imagine that All of the angels in heaven rejoice (have a huge party) when just one sinner repents and enters into the Kingdom of God!.

I have even had some students tell me: There is a guy in 'Dupont' that has accepted Christ. I'll say: "That is great! Let's go talk to him and welcome him!" And their reply will be - "Well let's just wait until he tells you - we don't want him to feel awkward."

Awkward, are you kidding! This is the greatest moment of his life! 100 times more significant than his acceptance to W&M.

Let us make a commitment this year - When we hear about someone making a personal commitment to Christ or a return to acceptance of the Christian Faith that we honor him or her with a personal visit or conversation. We introduce him to our friends, our small group leaders, our IV staff, our pastors, and anyone else who would help us throw a party for this lost one who is now found.

This is Ministry!

2008-08-17T11:48:00.002-04:00

I attended a Leadership conference recently - the Summit sponsored by Willow Creek Community Church and Bill Hybels. There was so much good stuff offered by the speakers, interviews and extra resources. I loved it and learned so much.

There was one talk by Hybels where he was giving us his AXIOMS (a new book he has published). You know AXIOMS; they are those pithy statements that communicate profound things in a few words.

One AXIOM was "This is Church!" And what it communicates around Willow is that when something is hard or shows a dose of reality - they will say "Well, this is Church." It has nothing to do with the meeting or the program or the building or the things that run right, but it has everything to do with going through the tunnel of chaos with those we rub shoulders with everyday. For instance, when there is a man in the church who serves faithfully, gives generously, provides for his family, is always available for whatever will benefit the fellowship goes through the tunnel of chaos (or as Dick Woodward says: "Going through the Wringer."). Perhaps he gets a bad report from the Doc, or loses his job, or some financial issue - and the people around the church meet him where he is at and bring to him the Grace of God. Hybels' folk say - "Well, this is Church." This communicates that life is hard, and often unexplainable, but when the people of God come around the needs of hurting people. - well, this is church! Does that make sense?

So I am starting to do some of this applying myself. I have seen and talked to a lot of people this summer: friends, family, InterVarsity staff, WM alumni, missionaries, new acquaintances, etc. There are a lot of people going through the wringer! There is a lot of hurt out there. And while this idea of CHURCH applies in the general sense - much of what I do is more itinerant, or independent - rather when I visit with someone, I don't necessarily represent a particular church. I am a pastor, but not of a particular congregation - I am a floater, as it were! So if I started saying "This is Church" people would ask me, "Where?" So I think a parallel that would work for me is "Well, this is ministry." As I walk through the Tunnel of Chaos with people I want to be able to look up to the Lord and say: "Well, this is ministry. Well, this is what the ministry is all about! Well, this is what you've called me to do."

The Perscription for a Perfect Men's Weekend...

2008-07-15T09:47:00.003-04:00

1) A group of guys with a large affinity.
2) A great location.
3) Several sedentary activities: newspapers, books, Wii, PS3, iPOD, Karaoke, guitars, piano, lots of good couches & cushy chairs, a big deck outside, lots of beds (Rule # 1 of Men's retreats - One Man, One Bed), etc
4) Lots of good food: BBQ, Apple Pie, Chips & Salsa, Eggs & Bacon, Grits, Ham & Turkey, variety of good beverages
5) Several active activities: Basketball, Swimming Pool, Tennis Courts,
6) A fine dining establishment - for more good food & a chance to get out of the house at least once during the weekend.
7) opportunities for worship and Bible study
8) A set of questions to encourage honest, authentic deep sharing:

In an effort to help us share, and to stir some things up that can be followed up in free time, please answer the following questions. I encourage you to type/write answers and bring copies for everyone. Preparation will help you streamline your own thoughts, but also allow sharing to move forward without rambling. It will also allow us to make some notes, and give us good threads to follow up with you during free time.

What are any significant events that have happened over the last year/since our time together?

What is one Epiphany that you have had over the last year?

Who are you sharing your life with? Who are you mentoring? Who are you allowing into your life?

What have you been reading?

What is on your iPod that you should share? (New Music, good Podcasts, etc)

What have you been watching (Movies, but perhaps TV)?

What are your new hobbies/Fun activities?

How do the brothers need to hold you accountable/encourage you?

What is going on in job and what are you excited about in your job?

Where will your job/career be in 5-10 years from now?

What has been the most fun you have had this last year (or Highlight of your year) and why?

The above are the ones I would like us all to answer. However, you are free to share what you think is important. To get you thinking, here are some “stir the pot” questions

Overall/Spiritual
What has God been teaching you?
What have been the significant events in your family of origin, marriage, children, church, job, friendships?
What have you been confessing lately?

Spouse and Family
What has been the biggest joy/improvement in your marriage?
How have you not loved your spouse?
What have been the biggest struggles in your Marriage?
What has been your biggest struggle as a parent?
What have you enjoyed seeing in your children? What has scared you/Sent you to your knees?

Church
Describe your current church involvements and situation
What have been your disappointments? What have been your biggest encouragements?
What is your vision for your church, and your involvement in it?

Job
Brief update and overview
What do you hate about your job?

Personal
Who are your key relationships in your community/church?
What have you done to challenge yourself lately?
What has become more important than sex for you?
What are your new hobbies/Fun activities?

My 54 Years in 54 Sentences or so...

2008-07-11T00:01:00.000-04:00

1954 - Sports Illustrated magazine is first published. Earl & Esther Purks give birth to a son, me in Washington, DC.

1955 - The phrase "In God We Trust" is added to all US Currency. I learn to crawl following "Skippy" the bird.

1956 - Don Larsen pitches a perfect game in the World Series. I "steal" my dad's bank book from his shirt pocket every night.

1957 - Schools in Little Rock, AR are integrated with the help of the US Army. I watch my Uncle count all the bricks in my house.

1958 - Elvis Presley receives his draft notice. I runaway from my mom on 14th St in DC.

1959 - Alaska & Hawaii officially become states. I visit Ocean City, MD for the 1st time.

1960 - Elvis is discharged from Army. I runaway from my family in my neighborhood, My dad had the police looking for me.

1961 - Bob Dylan debuts. I make kids in my neighborhood sing my song: "Martin the Great"

1962 - The President of the United States acquired 1200 Cuban Cigars the day before the Cuban embargo. My Fam & I moved to Richmond, VA.

1963 - CS Lewis, Aldous Huxley & John F. Kennedy die on the same day. When the President was shot all the adults were quiet. I liked helping my dad work in his restaurant.

1964 - Beatles are first heard in the US. I like music - 45RPMs.

1965 - Martin Luther King Jr marches from Selma to Montgomery. Neighborhood boys (Randall, Randy, Carl & I) played sports every afternoon.

1966 - Indira Gandhi becomes Prime Minister of India. I enter J.R. Tucker School as a 7th Grader.

1967 - Super Bowl I. I quit band and start playing football.

1968 - RFKennedy is slain in LA. MLKing is slain in Ga. I start to notice girls.

1969 - First man on the moon! I stay up all night to see it on TV.

1970- Redskins fall to 6-8, I end my tenure as a 'Skins fan FOREVER.

1971 - NPR's "All Things Considered" debuts. I am appointed Chaplain of Tucker HS FCA. I read the "Scroll" of the Lord's Prayer every week.

1972 - Watergate Scandal erupts. Tucker HS YL Club begins. I met Jesus Christ. Discipled by Doug Holladay.

1973 - Secretariat wins the Triple Crown. I met Carolyn Smith, after an unrequited 'crush' on her older sister.

1974 - The end of the UCLA basketball winning streak (88). I joined YL staff in Richmond, VA (Tucker HS). Discipled by Tuck Knupp.

1975 - "Jaws" is released in the summer. I am busy trying to squeeze 4 years into 5 of college education. I coach JV football at Tucker.

1976 - Apple Computer begins (Jobs & Wozniak). I graduated from VCU. I work as a Assistant Data Input Comptroller for Miller & Rhoads.

1977 - Seattle Slew wins the Triple Crown. My dad passes away peacefully. I manage a restaurant. Midlothian HS YL club began.

1978 - Affirmed wins the Triple Crown. Hopewell HS YL began. I marry Carolyn Smith

1979 - Margaret Thatcher becomes PM of England. Monacan YL club began. Discipled by Tim Keller.

1980 - The 1st personal computer is released. Meadowbrook HS YL club began. I was ordained for the ministry.

1981 - Walter Cronkite retires. We move to Heidelberg Germany! Skiing in Austria.

1982 - West Germany is in the World Cup finals (we were living there at the time!) Heidelberg HS YL club began. Skiing in Switzerland. I coach football & wrestling at Heidelberg HS.

1983 - "Beat it" by Michael Jackson hits #1. 100 Heidelberg kids to Greece. Swimming in the Aegean Sea.

1984- Winter Olympics in Sarajevo. Heidelberg MS WYLD Life club began. I play the "Old Course" & par "The Road Hole" Tripp Purks enters the world. Skiing in Sarajevo.

1985 - New Coke rises & falls in one year! Skiing in Italy. 75 Heidelberg Kids to Tunisia. We move to Williamsburg, VA. I start college discipling and move away from HS evangelism.

1986 - Elie Wiesel wins the Nobel Peace Prize. Developing College leaders for the church of the future. Discipled by Mel Rosche

1987 - Ronald Reagan: "Mr Gorbachev, Tear Down That (Berlin) Wall!" Bobby Purks enters the world. "I work in the 4/40 window - 4 years of preparation for 40 years of ministry."

1988 - A series of evangelists resign from public ministry after confessing to sexual sin. Josh McDowell speaks the Gospel to 900 at W&M. It is really hard in 1988 to stand with fallen men who stood for the Gospel. Discipled by Dick Woodward

1989 - The Berlin Wall is broken down. Barnabas-Paul-Timothy ministry. Ft. Lauderdale Evangelism Project with 25 W&M students.

1990 - East and West Germany are reunited. Habitat for Humanity Hurricane Hugo Relief, the 1st IVIS project.

1991 - Ukraine is independent of from the Soviet Union. Chuck Colson speaks the Gospel to 800 at W&M.

1992 - US Troops land in Somalia. I start re-collecting sports cards.

1993 - Branch Davidian Compound invaded by ATF agents. The Coffeehouse opens in Williamsburg.

1994 - Rawandan Genocide.

1995 - Rock and Roll Hall of Fame opens. I learn "Star Wars" & "Pokemon" card games. I start to spend time with the "'98 Fellas"

1996 - Mother Teresa granted honorary citizenship in US. We took a Sabbatical to Europe. I spent 3 weeks with C.S. Lewis' stepson.

1997 - Princess Diana and Mother Theresa die. I begin a Fraternity & Sorority Ministry at W&M.

1998 - Cal "Ironman" Ripken breaks consecutive game record (2632) founded. Aroma's Opens on Prince George St. G+0=RSWG

1999 - Columbine Massacre kills 15. "Greek Impact" is born on the bus ride back from Indy Greek Conference.

2000 - AOL buys Time-Warner. The Daily Grind opens at Lodge 2 location. I begin to hang out with the " '03 Guys"

2001 - 9/11 @ WTC 1. "I agree with Sam" speaks the gospel to 700 W&M students.

2002 - VA & MD Snipers paralyzes travellers. My mom dies peacefully.

2003 - Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrates on re-entry into the atmosphere. "Hurrication Isabel" closes Campus for 10 days! Campus Alpha Course on campus.

2004 - Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ" is released. Pancake House Outreach is launched on campus.

2005 - Pope John Paul II dies. Learning to walk beside the brothers.

2006 - "Crash" wins best picture. Learning Agape

2007 - VT massacre 32 killed. I spend the year learning about forgiveness

2008 - Earthquakes & Cyclones kill thoudsands in Asia. Learning to live & speak Gospel.

Authenticity

2008-07-08T10:40:00.002-04:00

I know authenticity is the key word these days on people 'getting into church'. If it is not Authentic then this generation doesn't want anything to do with it!

So what does Authenticity mean, really? WIKI tells me that it refers to the courage to live one's life according to the needs of one's inner being rather than the demands of society, external factors or one's early conditioning.

In a faith community I think it means living life not by saying the right thing, but by telling the real circumstances, the real story. I might know what I "Should" do, but in my plodding along I practice a different thing.

What do I hear on campus?
" I don't go to church because I find the sermons and stories I hear are not Authentic."
"The church is full of hypocrites"
" How can I attend a church that talks about a loving God, but then openly rejects 10% of the population"
" I don't think anyone is capable of living authentically"
"Once you show me a community based on faith & authenticiy then I will pursue your community."

OK, then what is one to do? I feel living authentically is so hard in society. Perhaps I am open and honest with one group (to a certain respectful level, of course) but I can't maintain that level of honesty with everyone. Also, I am in a bit of a fishbowl as a Christian leader (well I really am). So I think that controls what I can share openly - I hope I am not just playing that game because I have been assimilated to believe it. If I practice a habit, that is unpopular in the conventional Christian community. I certainly would be open to share it with my core friends, (especially if they are prone to practice it with me), and I might even tell a broader audience. But would I "Shout it from the Housetops" or say it from the pulpit (fortunately, my ministry does not put me in the pulpit very often). Probably not! Does that limit my AUTHENTICITY? Well I hope not, but how can I tell?

In a recent conversation with a young man, we were talking about qualities of discipling, or disciplemaking. I asked what is the most memorable quality of your mentor. By the way, I said that the most memorable quality of my mentors has been their willingness to take me to the next level in Christ. This young man said that the thing that drew him into this mentoring relationship was the discipler's Authenticity! I said: "What do you mean?" His reply: "Growing up in a religious home, I saw all of the inconsistency of the message from the pulpit and the behavior at home! But this mentor, boldly told me his flaws! He shared that he was unloving to family & friends, broken in morals, prone to wander, but God was still real and changing him everyday."

Could he be that honest & authentic with everyone? Well I think not, but I don't know how far to throw the net. Who gets included in my circle of authenticity?

The Reading - 50 pp / day JUNE

2008-07-02T11:08:00.000-04:00

june 1 Rules For Renegades
june 2 Rules For Renegades
june 3 Rules For Renegades
june 4 Rules For Renegades
june 5 Rules For Renegades
june 6 Once I was Lost
june 7 Once I was Lost
june 8 Once I was Lost
june 9 Once I was Lost
june 10 Getting Things Done
june 11 Getting Things Done
june 12 Getting Things Done
june 13 The Living Church
june 14 The Living Church
june 15 The Living Church
june 16 Point Man
june 17 Point Man
june 18 Point Man
june 19 Point Man
june 20 Point Man
june 21 The Living Church
june 22 The Living Church
june 23 Why You Do the Things You Do
june 24 Why You Do The Things You Do
june 25 Why You Do The Things You Do
june 26 Why You Do The Things You Do
june 27 Breaking The Discipleship Code
june 28 Breaking The Discipleship Code
june 29 Breaking The Discipleship Code
june 30 Breaking the Discipleship Code

The Annual Let-down...

2008-05-21T11:34:00.002-04:00

This is, of course, not much of a secret to anyone these days - who know me that is - but given my personality and the passion I have for my "job" I go through this period of well for lack of a better term a "let-down" for a time after I return from Summer Camp.

On all of the Myers-Briggs Temperament Analysis tests I rank at the top in the Extroverted category. That means I receive energy from being with people. It's not that I have to be the center of attention in a group. It's not even about being in a group, I just need to be with people.

So let's think about this for a moment... The majority of how I define my job is being with people. A lot of people who do what I do have other outlets. As well as meeting with students, some study, some write, some speak, but I prefer to meet with people one on one or in groups. The verbal processing that being with people helps me with the "study, prep & processing of information". So beginning in January after a great semester break I ease into the new semester. I first begin to work on leadership development of the 2 campus groups I serve - InterVarsity@W&M and Greek Impact. I plan retreats, meet with my leaders, meet new students, prepare for the 1st 2 talks of the year. And gradually ease into the year.

If I've had a good break then I've thought about goals and plans, I've developed a strategy for discipling and witness. So the new semester allows me the freedom to put the "vision" into action. So it begins...

I start meeting with students, a few at a time, then more and more. As the semester continues then there are more requests for a meeting or two. It is very hard for me to say "no" to requests like this.

After Spring Break several things begin to happen: Students show a greater need to grow and develop spiritually, or they may show more frustration or brokenness in life and/or spiritually. Also, people begin to plan for the future (including real world transition and marriage). So for instance in a typical week this year towards the last day of classes. I met with 15 students individually, 2 colleagues, 3 groups of 2 or more, 2 marriage counseling sessions, 3 leadership meetings, 2 planning meetings. Of the 15 students - 5 were leadership & vision oriented, 5 were basic discipleship, and 5 were seekers or very new believers. In the midst of this 'student-work' I also worked on A BBQ dinner for 250 and a Pancake House Outreach for 1200!

After the last day of classes, I try as hard as possible to meet with all the graduates I won't see for awhile. Then I try to pull off a senior banquet, get out a prayer letter and pack for camp.

I head off for 2 weeks of camp. This is where I meet up with 60 other staff. Five of which I live with in a "dorm" situation. Within 24 hours of arriving I meet 8 students that I will spend the next week helping them become "Good Small Group Leaders". I will do the same thing the 2nd week! Then we have all the staff relations and shenanigans . Which is quite fun and rewarding for an extrovert.

I always say being at Camp is like a glimpse into heaven. There is an ultimate focus on personal spiritual growth, there is an attitude of grace and service. Also If there is a "brokenness" then we have the opportunity to deal with it immediately and not let it fester like we tend to do in the world. There is always something going on! Three meals a day with 400 of your closest friends, quality worship every day, great teaching and interactions with growing believers. Limited temptations. God is good.

So why do I complain? Well it ends... I come home. The entire social crescendo ceases into quiet. Which I probably need after all the activity of January thru May. But it just seems so antithetical to the pace I had developed before camp.

So it takes me some time to re-coup. I try to do one active thing a day. I return to a normal routine of reading, study, pray and people (gradually). I begin to think about the study, alumni work and vacation that I put into the summer.

coffee

2008-05-14T09:23:00.002-04:00

Well there used to be Coffee Stations at the Rockbridge Alum Springs Dining Hall. I liked them! When there was a need you just walked over with cup in hand pulled a lever and you had instant fresh coffee (wait not 'Instant Coffee', as in Taster's Choice, but roasted coffee quickly). Sometimes a line would form but that would just allow you to build community with the other coffee folk.

This Spring the kitchen staff took the coffee stations away! I was shocked at first! WHY? Who did this? I couldn't believe it. What would we do now?

In a casual conversation with some of the kitchen staff I found out. Once again Young Life is the winner!

"So, hey Why'd you take the Coffee Stations away?"

"When High School kids came to camp, we want them to have an EXCELLENT resort experience! We just started to think that, Is it really serving High Schoolers if we have them standing in line to get a cup of Coffee? Why don't we bring the coffee to them, literally serve them with Carafes of Coffee. We'll wait on them. When does anyone in our society honor High Schoolers by serving them?"

"You are kidding?"

"No, we realized that so many High Schoolers were waiting in line for a cup of coffee, for almost a third of the meal. If we brought coffee to them then it would give their leaders that much more time to hang out with them and deepen their relationship with them, to share Christ with them!"

Plus incarnationally if Christ came to serve and to give His life away as a ransom for many can't we do the same with a pot of coffee?

How to connect with God!

2008-05-09T14:48:00.004-04:00

One of the things my job affords me the luxury of is spending 2 weeks at a retreat facility (Young Life's Rockbridge Alum Springs, in Western Virginia). Now in earnest this is WORK! It really is. This week I am spending time training Small Group Leaders for next year's InterVarsity Chapters. I have 4 students from University of Richmond (incl 2 who will be leading in their sororities) 2 from Chapel Hill and 2 from Univ of Mary Washington. I also spoke last night on the "Nuts and Bolts of Launching a Small Group" to the entire Small Group Leaders Tract.

But when I am not working so hard, I have the opportunity to spend time with God, evaluate the Lord's work in my life over the past year and do a little vision-casting for next year. There is something about being away, out of the normal day-to-day, out of Williamsburg to see the peaks and valleys of God's work in my life and on campus.

So just today I was able to read scripture - Jonah is the book of choice for SGLs this year - and begin to have my eyes opened to my sin. (YUCK!) I was dealing with the little things that I get angry about and also my general rebellion against those pet-peeves I have. I was beginning to realize my anger is linked to things I can't control and my rebellion is linked to the things I can control. In terms of control it's when something is getting to be 'old hat' that I either get way too prideful or get way too rebellious. My rebellion is because I think I can do a better job at running things than someone else or God. So I try to make a statement based on what I want!

Jonah did this same thing. He didn't want to preach to the Ninevites - even though he was probably good at it. He wanted to rest under the shade and sulk. BUT GOD - provided the city of Nineveh, He provided the Gourd and the Leaf for Shade, He provided the Worm to eat the Gourd and kill the Shade. Jonah thought he was in control yet he was just dependent on what God was doing!

Why don't I get that? I know God is sovereign. I know He directs my path. I know He has my best interest in mind. Yet I still want to be angry and rebel.

For Jonah his dependence on God improved as his connections with God improved.

Partnership in the Gospel

2008-04-17T10:51:00.000-04:00

as I sit in my usual place in the Daily Grind, waiting for the next student to come in... I am observing the room and I see 2 tables occupied by 4 Greek Impact (GI) students. This isn't all that unusual, but I am particularly touched today because of the partnership we share in the Gospel.

You see, as I am about to talk about the next issue of going on in the faith with the student in a minute; one of these tables is occupied by 2 sorority women. I know that this conversation is significant because the GI leader has been praying for an opportunity to tell the other student "her God-story". it is happening before my eyes! Because of the 'Foolishness of the Gospel' there is no reason that the listener should be interested, but because of the Holy Spirit's work in her life and her particular circumstances - all of a sudden there is a huge spiritual interest. Who knows what the result of this casual coffee time will be.

The other table is occupied by 3 GI students. One of them is teaching the other 2 to lead Bible Studies in their sororities. I can overhear part of this discussion as the leader is sharing Inductive Bible Study principles and they are each working off of a page from BibleGateway.com. "Questions need to be made so that the people in the group will look into the text for the answer and they shouldn't be YES or NO type questions." WOW! I can't wait to see how these women will begin to increase the ministry by leading in each of their sororities. But also how they will develop as leaders by starting these groups!

What an amazing partnership that is going on: Me in my one-on-one discipling, the evangelistic discussion at table 1 and the Bible Study training at table 2, What can I say?

Ya gotta love these guys!

2008-04-02T13:04:00.003-04:00

The class of 1998 was an amazing class for me. There were a huge amount of Christian men in the InterVarsity Chapter. Many of these guys I met with weekly. Some of them were in a discipling group - that is a group that came together to begin to live out 2 Timothy 2:2 on campus ("Things you have heard me say, entrust to reliable people who in turn can teach others.").

As senior year rolled around these guys began to think about what it would mean to continue to grow together as brothers in Christ. Would they stay connected through an email listserve? They do, by the way, and it has been active for over 10 years. Would they just plan on meeting up annually for a vacation or mission trip? They still do that too. Or possibly should they be intentional enough to choose to move together to a location so that they could live in community and encourage each other in Christ. Well that is what happened! Not all of them of course, but a number of them moved to Houston and began to work for Teach For America (TFA) in a couple inner-city schools. Some moved to NOVA, some Massachusetts, NJ, Colorado, Romania etc. But they have remained close and challenging to each other all of this time.

TFA led the Houston boys to a Charter School system named YES Prep. They have worked hard in this system. And have accomplished many things. Some teach, some train new teachers, some work in the administration such as recruitment and development. But their vision for the kids in Houston is stellar. And their faith and commitment to each other has gotten some recognition! Houston School District has just chosen YES Prep Charter Schools as the # 1 school in the District! (see link & video above).

I am very proud of these guys and how they have chosen to live faithfully for the Kingdom of God in the midst of a broken & perverse generation!

Foolishness in April

2008-04-01T23:34:00.003-04:00

Carolyn was (is) the April Fool-er in our family. She is the one who would be awake and move through the house early in the morning on April 1st wrecking havoc wherever she went. It might start with me. Usually it would be about some overnite equipment or appliance failure. "Marty, wake up! The Dishwasher overflowed all over the kitchen last night!" or "There is no hot water in the house!" Or "That big oak tree fell across the driveway and we can't get our cars out!" I would leap to my feet already to put my best problem-solving techniques to work, until I would catch a glimpse of Carolyn snickering in the corner!

Then she would move to Tripp's room (me close behind, just to watch her get another victim) and she would say: "Tripp, time to get up --- OH MY GOSH, look at that SPIDER climbing on the wall there! (Tripp is very afraid of spiders - by the way)" He would leap into the air and out of bed - with Carolyn laughing hysterically! Then the 3 of us would creep into Bobby's room, and watch the master at work once again: "Bobby, did you forget to turn the washer on last night, I think your clothes are still dirty?" Once again the victim would leap to attention while the torturer and previous victims would be rolling on the floor in pure hilarity! April Fools day had arrived at our house once again.

God had to have the same type of humor himself. Just think of the Tower of Babel. People from all over the world coming together, speaking the same language, trying to get to God - on their own strength. With one swoosh of his Word all peoples began to speak in many languages so that no one could understand the other.

Then there is poor Samuel, a small voice calls "Samuel, Samuel". Samuel trudges down to Eli's room and says "Yes Eli, I am here!" Eli says, "Go to bed boy, I didn't call you." Three times this same thing occurs. Finally Eli says: It's not me, boy - it's probably God, next time ask Him what he wants." Then there was Enoch who was walking with men one minute and then walking with God the next! God has a huge sense of humor all through the Bible.

Then in 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Paul writes about God & Foolishness. God's foolishness in wiser than all of man's wisdom put together! The folly is in the fact that even since the Tower of Babel man continues to try to get to God on his own. And God must just laugh!

But God has (at least) one more act of foolishness. He allows one man (His Son Jesus Christ) to die in humiliation. On a cross, a death of a common criminal. so that all of us who ask for mercy & forgiveness from Him shall walk with Him for eternity.

This Gospel message is just foolishness!

Get your Easter Shopping done early!

2008-03-12T00:42:00.002-04:00

I heard a great story tonight!

A senior was telling her God-story. This was a woman who had been to church all of her young life. It was just what her family did. Then after coming to college she just began to hang out with people who were a bad influence in her life and she began to do things that took her in a direction away from the faith that she grew up with.

It was in her senior year, over Christmas break, that 2 things happened. First she began to read a book called _Lord, Teach me to Pray_. From this book she discovered that faith was not religious activity but it was a relationship. She realized her life had been going away from God, she wanted that to change. Second, she remembered a friend from class who told her about Greek Impact, a Christian Fellowship on campus that helped fraternity & sorority students grow in their faith and learn about God. When she returned after Christmas she talked to her friend and began going to Greek Impact. She has discovered a community and a fellowship that helps her deepen her relationship with God. She has stopped the activities that distracted her from Jesus Christ and has placed Him at the center of her life.

ah yes! the International Service Project!

2008-03-11T13:43:00.002-04:00

So many students from W&M(& other schools) took the opportunity of Spring Break to do an International Service Project (or some may call it Alternative Spring Break). A chance to see the world and serve the less fortunate. Students went to Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Haiti among others. They either did work with orphans, building houses or building camping facilities. They had a true cross-cultural experience, both in nationality & socio-economics.

Let's think about the progression of this. When I first came to W&M as a Campus Minister. It seemed like the whole campus went on the typical "Spring Break Blowout" event. College students flooded Daytona, Ft. Lauderdale, Destin, South Padre Island, and on and on. It was seen as an opportunity to go crazy for 1 week for 4 years that you would never have back. MTV in the early nineties would literally move to So. Florida to capture the antics of millions of students. It was legend!

Sometime in the late 90's the trends changed, the Wild & Crazy Beach Scene was not as popular. Part of this was because local law enforcement increased its activity. But part was because the desire to serve and help others began to increase.

InterVarsity@W&M began to do service projects in the early 90's. At first we went to do hurricane relief with Habitat for Humanity in South Carolina, then eventually we went to Urban Promise in Camden, NJ to work with inner city children & adolescents. When we started in Camden we were the only organization to work with Urban Promise, now each week we are joined by dozens of students from UVA, JMU, U. Maryland, etc. During this time (10 or so years ago) there seemed to be a larger effort to do domestic service. Appalachia, Hurricane Relief (Fla, SC, LA, Miss.), Urban work (Greensboro, Richmond, Philadelphia, Camden, NY, etc).

But lately it seems like the effort has been placed on international work. Of course mostly Caribbean, Latin, central & south American countries.

What are the gains:
1) Cross-cultural experience, new language, new country & a broader global experience.
2) Bigger understanding of USA in the world environment
3) Going South is still popular
4) Seeing poverty at an even more dire circumstance.

What are the losses:
1) Do we really make a difference?
2) Is it good economics? Would it make a bigger impact to just send money?
3) Can we really have political influence?
4) What influence can we have?

Finally: I have 2 thoughts, As we experience more of the world, through travels, reading and relationships I hope that we are beginning to create ways to speak the truth of the Gospel into our localities as well as into the world. All of this service must be translated to Christ's work in our community as well as in the world.

also, as we 'wash the feet' of our brothers & sisters we have got to begin to see it as a broader understanding of what God is about. Tony Campolo once said: "Is my heart broken for the things that break God's heart?" We can't leave Nicaragua saying, "We went down there to serve them, and they served us." unless we are preparing ourselves to serve those in our community today.

Leadership Part 3

2008-03-05T01:08:00.004-05:00

Timeless Leadership: A Conversation with David McCullough, an article in the Harvard Business Review.

The author of books including _John Adams_, _1776_, _Truman_, among many others conducted an interview with the editors of HBR (march 2008). It was a fascinating analysis of leadership from an historical basis. McCullough began with a plea: "We need leaders and not just political leaders. We need leaders in every field, in every institution, in all kinds of situations. We need to be educating our young people to be leaders and unfortunately that's fallen out of fashion."

McCullough talked about how leadership requires a unique combination of talents acquired through a set of learned experiences in line with a certain amount of unique talents. For instance, George Washington, had an incredible ability to spot talent even in places where it wasn't obvious. He also was able to let his leaders do their jobs with freedom and he was not afraid to let them fail and it is through the failure that he was able to assess their leadership and strength.

One of the key talents today has to do with the leader having real strength and talent in the arena of listening. Listening beneath the surface. To hear what they aren't saying as well as what they are saying. Knowing how to ask questions. Knowing how to direct the topics to see the deeper and more significant thoughts and actions of the leader or potential leader.

I work with people who have some of the greatest potential for leadership today. I love it! I get to see fledgling efforts. I also see weak initiative, even in the midst of strong potential. (I hate that!)

I overheard a conversation a couple weeks ago between a senior and a Teach For America Representative which gave me great concern. It was obvious this student had great leadership potential. She carried herself well. She had held a number of significant leadership positions on campus. She was well recommended by her professors and peers. It was obvious that she was seriously interested in TFA as a career. When pushed by the recruiter to fill out the application and move onto the next interview, she resisted. When asked by the recruiter, why she wouldn't apply, her answer was (and I'm not joking about this), "I am afraid that I would apply, go for the interview and then be rejected or not placed." I could not believe that someone who seemingly was the right fit in every discernible way would not risk failure by filling out an app!

I have great concern for a certain type of person who fails to risk for the sake of a 'possible' failure. I know many of these folks have never failed at anything. but we know logically that failure will come. In time a level of failure will be apparent. It happens to all of us.

I know for myself that it is only in my weakness that His strength is made obvious. I know this is a paradigm shift, from the lone woman (faith unknown)who chose to not risk. But in all of God's sovereignty His strength is made perfect in weakness.

Leadership 2

2008-02-26T00:42:00.004-05:00

I just finished directing a break-out on Leadership for the Greensboro Greek Conference. Forty eight fraternity and sorority students from all over the Eastern Seaboard attended the Leadership class.

So what is the primary lesson to come out of this program: Servant Leadership! In John 13, we studied Jesus washing the feet of the disciples. This had fascinating applications for our group.

Remember when Jesus selected his disciples. The Gospel of Mark says He chose 12 that they might be with Him. It seems like this 'withness' is Jesus' primary value. When we look at His choices - there is no apparent reason for their liklihood of being together. Several fisherman, a tax-collector, a political zealot among others. At best this august group was a random conglomeration of worldviews, occupations, lifestyles etc. Not necessarily a group we would select to lead a ministry or a cause or an organization. But this is who Jesus chose.

So back to John 13, when Jesus is planning on leaving He provides His final training, by washing their feet. The job reserved for the lowliest servant in the household. The act of course symbolizes humility & serving and maybe even brokenness.

In the Leadership Breakout, we discussed Jesus humility and talked about - that the world's emphasis on leadership is getting position and power, butthe Kingdom of God is based on service & humility.

Somehow in God's economy this equals out to true leadership. Putting others ahead of yourself builds camraderie & trust. Humbling yourself before those you ar 'leading' builds trust & relaibility. 'Washing someones feet' allows them to see how far down you are willing to go to lift them up.

even in seminary...

2008-02-21T01:21:00.003-05:00

I have a friend, a 3rd year seminary student, who is writing a paper on "why people love the Bible." She is doing this through a Facebook message (and a series of replies). The responses have come from a wide range of people at various levels of academic and missional experience. Yet the answers are so similar.

I know the nature of the question leads us to a more emotional response. But almost everyone talks about how the Bible is a guide, an inspiration, it sets this backward world straight, it reminds us of God's love.

I guess I was prepared for more intellectual parlay - or - more anecdotal references. But the Bible according to my friend's friends is designed to Help me! To get me by, to direct by path. To help me avoid sin.

In truth can it really do that?

If so it must have a higher value than just the words on the page. It must function in the divine as well as the earthly. There has got to be a supernatural component to the Scriptures.

As for me: The Bible functions as the way to see a more clear picture of my Lord. Each day and each time I pick it up I see a deeper glimpse of Jesus. And I can hear His voice in my heart.

Leadership...

2008-02-20T01:06:00.003-05:00

There is a lot about leadership lately. Fidel Castro resigns, leading Cuba into oppression for 50 years. The charisma of Barak Obama who leads by confidence and personality. Hillary Clinton who leads by knowledge and experience. Gene Nichol who attracts thousands of students yet alienates hundreds of alumni and state leaders.

So what is leadership anyway? Who gets it? How do you keep it? Can it be measured? What are the God-given components of leadership?

From the scripture it seems like leadership is founded in 'The last must be first.' Jesus, Himself a leader who led uncompromisingly, led by serving - "I have come to seek and to save the lost." When David, one of God's mighty men, decided to 'count' his greatness, God put his leadership on hold.

Then just to prove where power and leadership come from in Daniel. This one is thrown at us: "The decision is announced by messengers, the holy ones declare the verdict, so that the living may know that the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and gives them to anyone he wishes and sets over them the lowliest of men." Daniel 4:17. God is the one who is sovereign! God is the one who disburses power and authority. He disburses it to WHOMEVER He wishes!

Do we get that? Do we understand that Power either worldly or Godly is not based on my placement, family heritage, wisdom, politics or whatever. It is based completely on what God decides!

Who's reading the Bible?

2008-02-19T00:26:00.001-05:00

Just a couple things:

First in terms of that thing called a quiet time, it seems to me that there are fewer and fewer people who are making this a priority. Why is that? I think that in "our" new focus on Grace over Legalism; a movement that we have seen increase dramatically over the last couple years. Now, it is a focus that I completely agree with. But we have taken our liberty to remove habits that really help develop our relationship with God.

Second, If I am free from the time responsibility of Bible reading, then how can I develop my relationship with God? A relationship doesn't just develop by itself. It takes an effort, a commitment of time.

Third, there is a possibility that eventhough it looks legalistic I believe the most effective way to develop this relationship will take a consistent pattern of reading the source that reveals the most accurate picture and relational dealings of our Lord. In other words if we read the Bible systematically over a long period of time our knowledge of Jesus and our understanding of God will grow.

So What is Discipling anyway?

2008-02-18T01:46:00.006-05:00

The Questions come: "I've never been discipled so how can I disciple someone?"

Well I am sorry that no one ever took the time to begin to meet with you, to encourage you to develop your spiritual life. I believe it is a crucial way to get a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, to build unity between brothers and sisters in the faith of Christ-followers, to develop a bolder community to reach the world. But this is becoming a lost art that I believe MUST be reversed starting today! Really, there is no excuse for us who identify ourselves as Christ-followers to not begin to take responsibility for those who are younger than us. Even if it is not an element that we have experienced.

I am gonna give you some homework and then make an offer and let's begin to reverse the trend...

Homework:

Within a reasonable amount of time (1-3 hours) develop a list of topics / concepts / ideas that YOU are convinced are essential for someone who is identifying herself / himself as a Christ-Follower. After a day or so go back over the list and tweak your list. As a guideline think about 10 topics...

The Offer: If you are willing to take on this challenge, I will talk you through the next steps in beginning to be a Barnabas in someone's life just make a comment or send me an email. ( marty_purks@ivstaff.org )

Time for God?

2008-02-17T23:58:00.001-05:00

Could it be that not having enough time to read the Bible and spend time with God because of all of the things we have to do is a good enough reason to not do it?

What do I mean? Am I saying that because of how gracious He is and also because some of us have been "in the Faith" a very long time that there is no longer a need to intentionally read the Bible or spend a concentrated time talking to Him? It seems like that could be a disease that many of us have caught.

We ARE very busy aren't we? It is a sign of our culture. It is a form of greeting that we give each other. "I am so busy!", "I've got so much to do; I am so stressed!" I can't believe the work I have to do. I'm at least a week behind." So when we work up our daily task list we put everything in its place. We prioritize the most important things first. We make sure we put at the top those things we can't ignore. That paper with the deadline; or the contract that must be signed and researched. The potential property that must be built. All these things scream "ME FIRST!" And we believe that is what really matters.

On the other hand... God is not clamoring to be at the top of the list. In fact, because of our experience with Bible Reading and Prayer we feel like he doesn't even need to be near the top. After all we will be able to catch up with that stuff after the important things are done. We know that God will understand. And also, because of that transformation / Holy Spirit thing - I believe God will give me what I need when I need it even if I am not prepared. Thank you Lord for meeting me where I am.

Wait, Wait, Wait!!! No, this is not a relationship! This is some kind of Convenience Store. that's right a spiritual convenience store. When we don't have time to do the real shopping or real preparation, we rely on the WAWA to get the essentials. That is how we are approaching our relationship with God. But it is a relationship. As in any relationship it takes time, effort, time, focus, time, creativity. It would be absurd if I thought that my relationship with Carolyn, in the early days would progress by just spending 7 minutes a week with her. It took hours. And it was hours that I wanted to spend with her. And you know what it still takes hours - 30 years later!

So it is with the Lord, I want to spend time with Him. I get to spend time with Him. And magically as I spend time with God - I know Him better. I can hear His voice better.

It's not about being legalistic, it's about a relationship

The S Word, by Mac Richard

2008-01-31T00:31:00.000-05:00

Mac Richard, The S-word

It’s really funny, over the course of my ministry, how many times I have had prospective brides sit in my office with their fiancées for pre-marital counseling and say something like this:

Just to need to establish some ground rules and make sure that nowhere in the ceremony does the word submit or obey rear its ugly head, okay? Thank you. Now let’s begin.

And I understand where that comes from. I understand the pushback to the S-word. When we think the S-word, we usually think doormat, rollover, taken advantage of. But that pushback betrays a gross misunderstanding of biblical submission.

First of all, we need to understand that Biblical submission is not limited to women. It’s not. The bible does say, “Wives, submit to your husbands,” in Ephesians 5:22. But what men have eliminated for centuries is the verse that goes immediately before this. Look at what it says. In Ephesians 5:21, the first part of the verse says, “Submit to one another.”

Isn’t it funny that men who predominantly have been preachers and teachers and priests have said, “Wives submit to your husbands. This is the will of the Lord for thy life.” But many times they have omitted this part that says, “Submit to one another.”

You see, in God’s economy, relationship works because people submit to each other. No matter the relationship, whatever it may be. God says in Philippians 2, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.” Whatever relationship you’re in, it will work better if both parties submit to each other.

Submission is the ultimate question between God and a person. See, we like to talk about grace, and forgiveness, love, and blessing. And those things are all there. But they’re only found in true submission. Male or female, husband or wife, married or single. Undecided. Submission to God. Your life submitted to Him, and in that, receiving His life submitted for you.

You see, Jesus not only calls us to this, he models this. On the night that He was betrayed, the Bible says that Jesus was praying in such anguish knowing what was to come that drops of blood formed on His forehead. Now this was before the crown of thorns was placed there. So this was how stressed and anguished He was. And he said, “God, if there’s any way for this cup to pass from me, for me to avoid the cross and the physical anguish, the spiritual death and separation from you, please I don’t want to do this. But not my will, but you will be done.”

That’s what Jesus did: submitting himself completely to and through the point of death for you and for me. Now, submission to someone who loves you that deeply, that unconditionally, that perfectly, is submitting to your own best interest. That is the miracle of unconditional love: It works because it is complete. There is no need for keeping score, for demands of more time, attention or affection. Submission works.

Posted by MacRichard on July 11, 2006 at 10:01 AM

So what makes the Gospel different?

2007-09-13T12:03:00.000-04:00

I've been reading I Thessalonians this Fall. Well actually all Summer too. But recently I've been going verse by verse. I'm looking for application and parallels to today.

First of all these 3 men - Paul, Silas & Timothy are writing this letter to encourage this young church. They had spent a short amount of time there on one of their missionary journeys . The church had grown and it continued to grow in spite of great adversity. Because of the Thessalonians' faithfulness AND their trials many folks around the country knew about this little church.

Did they need to be encouraged? It seemed like they were doing just fine on their own. I guess these "Leaders" could provide some spiritual & moral support. Of course, Paul, Silas & Timothy had also been through a bit of adversity too. But I am intrigued by the fact that this church - young in age, growing in the midst of trials, no pastors or leaders that were identified - continued to thrive. What was their trick? What were they doing right?

The authors give us a little insight in Ch. 1 v. 5 - "... our Gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction." The gospel does come with words - for us the Bible, for the Thessalonians - it was the scrolls and the stories about Christ that the disciples and the people of the Way could tell throughout the land (oral history). But the words were not all of it. Because there was Power, experienced within the body of believers and assuredly in the greater community as the Thessalonian Christians lived and worked among those who did not know the truth. Powerful things happened, like answered prayer, miracles, amazing stories as people repented and turned their lives around.

But then there was also the presence of the Holy Spirit in the lives of those who followed the Way of Jesus Christ. The promise from Paul and the Gospel writers that a new believer's life would be occupied by the Holy Spirit - having influence from the inside out. Finally the mark of the Gospel in this believer's life would be deep conviction. You know what that is; that is that voice from inside that speaks about right behavior, right living and God-centered decision-making. No cause for it. It just happens.

So what makes the Gospel different? For these Thessalonians Christians it is the ability for the Gospel to make change, deep change within a person's life. There is nothing like it. No self-improvement program, no current TV show behavior modification program can make the internal or external changes the the Gospel of Jesus Christ can make.

Cruciform Preaching, Hugh McCord

2007-07-18T11:32:00.000-04:00

The word "cruciform" is new to this octogenarian, but I am glad to learn what it means: "cross-shaped," a word that points to the pain and indignity and shame that Jesus endured because, said Paul, he "loved me and gave himself for me" (Galations 2:20, NIV).

One can say that Paul defined cruciform preaching as he wrote, "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Galations 6:14). "Christ and him crucified" (1 Corinthians 2:2) was all that Paul preached, and all that he wrote about in 13 books. But included in his cruciform preaching was a fiery threat toward those who "do not obey the gospel" (2 Thessalonians 2:7-9). If cruciform preaching is limited to Calvary, all people will be saved, for, " by the grace of God," Jesus died "for every man" (Hebrews 2:9). Since "many," said Jesus, are on "the road that leads to destruction" (Matthew 7:13), cruciform preaching by itself is not enough.

A well-intended preacher thinks "the core" of the gospel, the four gospels, are more important than the rest of the New Testament. Indeed the four gospels are indispensable, but God did not think they were enough; his New Testament consists of 27 books. It is not complimentary for an uninspired man to minimize 23 inspired books, Acts to Revelation. It is shocking to read that the 23 books, Acts-Revelation, are simply "the shadow of the reflection of a ham sandwich," the ham sandwich being Matthew-John.

The core of a apple is indispensable, but useless without the flesh. Kirk Caselman not only does cruciform preaching, but also he preaches the rest of the New Testament. He knows the importance of the core of an apple and the core of the gospel, and he also knows the importance of the flesh of an apple and the flesh of Christianity, namely, "sound doctrine" (healthful teaching, hugies didaskalia, 2 Timothy 4:3) as found in all 27 books of the New Testament. He writes,

While we are preaching THE CORE GOSPEL, and becoming THE CRUCIFORM CHURCH, we must still identify "false prophets" (Matthew 7:21-23) and straighten out what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town (Titus 1:5)!

We need, Kirk says, "THE WHOLE WILL OF GOD".

The apostle who wrote that nothing was in his preaching but Christ and him crucified also wrote that all that he wrote in his 13 books "are the commandments of the Lord" (1 Corinthians 14:37). It is not possible to preach Christ and him crucified without preaching the commands of Christ: "If you love me," he said, "you will keep my commandments" (John 14:15). He who "does not keep his commandments is a liar" (1 John 2:4).

If one only uses the four gospels to tell sinners what to do to be saved, he could please everybody by listing five different plans of salvation: (1) faith only (Luke 7:50); (2) faith of associates (Mark 2:5); (3) charity and restitution (Luke 19:1-10); (4) prayer only (Luke 23:43); and (5) faith and baptism (Mark 16:16).

If we do not go beyond the four gospels, we wind up with a do-nothing, powerless group, being told to "tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high" (Luke 24:49).

As important as is cruciform preaching (and may no man minimize that "core"), it is but a prologue to Christianity. Everything in the four gospels was prior to the "beginning" of Christianity (Luke 24:49; Acts 11:15). Some ten or more important principles that God wants me to know he did not put in the four gospels, but only in Acts through Revelation.

1. WHAT NAME IS AUTHORITATIVE. If one only gets instruction from the four gospels he will not do anything "in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Colossians 3:17). Instead, he will do everything in the name of Yahweh (Exodus 3:15; Matthew 6:9). Jesus reminded his apostles that during the three years of training his own name was not authoritative: "Until now you have not asked anything in my name" (John 16:24).

Then, in anticipation of the "beginning" (May 28, A.D. 30, Pentecost Day, Acts 2) of his new covenant, he prepared the apostles for the change from Yahweh’s name to his own name: "ask and you will receive" (John 16:24). Accordingly, they did nothing in Jesus’ name until what he called the "beginning" (Luke 24:47). On the day of the beginning, sinners were commanded to "repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ" (Acts 2:38). This was the first time that the name of Jesus was authoritative, and its authority continues to this day (Colossians 3:17), a fact not true if Acts through Revelation are ignored.

2. THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CHURCH. In the prologue (Matthew through John) we learn that Jesus promised to build his church, but even after he had been raised from the dead he had not done it. If one does not utilize Acts-Revelation he would never know that the Lord did build his church, his beloved bride for whom he died (Acts 2:47; 5:11; 20:28; Ephesians 5:23). Since he will return to save his church, I want to know everything he had said about it in all 27 books of the New Testament.

3. THE COMING OF THE KINGDOM. In the prologue (Matthew-John) one learns that the kingdom was "at hand" (Mark 1:15), that it would come before the apostles died (Mark 9:1). But on crucifixion day (April 7) it was yet in the future (Mark 15:43), and on his ascension day (May 18) Jesus told the apostles "to wait for the promise" of "the power" that would accompany the coming of the kingdom (Acts 1:4-8). Ten days later, May 28, the kingdom came with power, and was spoken of as "the church" (Acts 2:1-4, 47; 5:11). How we do need Acts-Revelation!

4. THE KING. If one only reads the four gospels he will not see Jesus crowned as king. When some tried by force to make him a king, he walked away "into a mountain alone" (John 6:15). He relieved Pilate when he told him that, though he was born to be a king, his kingdom would not be "of this world" (John 18:36). After he had died and had come out of the tomb, still he had not been crowned (Acts 1:4-8).

But ten days after his ascension, as he sat at the Father’s right hand, God the Father anointed him "with the oil of gladness" to be King of kings, and Lord of lords, saying to him, "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever (Hebrews 1:8-9; Acts 2:30).

I heard an old preacher use something of human origin (Bible chapter divisions) to bring home what the Bible teaches about the kingdom and the church. He exclaimed, "Daniel 2, Isaiah 2, Acts 2," emphasizing that Daniel 2 tells about the coming kingdom, Isaiah 2 tells about the coming church, and Acts 2 tells about the fulfillment of both predictions.

5. THE HIGH PRIEST. All Christians rejoice that Jesus now is their high priest, who "is able to save forever those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them" (Hebrews 7:25). But on the earth in the time of the four gospels he was not allowed to be a priest (Hebrews 7:14). On ascension day, as he went into heaven, he still was not a priest. But on May 28, ten days later, at the same time he was crowned king he was anointed to be our high priest (Hebrews 5:5-6).

6. CHRISTIANS ARE PRIEST. Never from the four gospels would one learn that all Christians, male and female, are priests (1 Peter 2:5, 9). But since Pentecost they are privileged to draw near with boldness to the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16).

7. THE NAME CHRISTIAN. Jesus’ disciples, destined to be called Christians by "the mouth of the Lord" (Isaiah 62:2), did not receive that meaningful name until the church was integrated at Antioch (Acts 11:26), long after the time of the four gospels. Now they are privileged to "glorify God in this name" (1 Peter 4:16).

8. NO SACRED DAYS. If we do not look beyond the four gospels we will observe the sabbath day, as did Jesus (Luke 4:16). But Christians learn that they are forbidden to keep the sabbath day sacred (Colossians 2:16); Galations 4:10:11).

Moreover, Christians have no sacred day (cf. Romans 14:5-6). The first day of the week in not more sacred than any other, but the Lord wants Christians on that day to break bread and to lay by in store a contribution (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2). Though all days are the Lord’s, Jesus arose from the dead on the first day of the week, and so apparently John called Sunday "the Lord’s day" by way of special memory (Revelation 1:10).

9. CHURCH ORGANIZATION. Without Acts-Revelation the church might have a universal bishop or district superintendents or majority rule. But since an apostle has left an example of "elders" in "every church" (Acts 14:23), people who respect the Lord do not try to improve on the apostolic practice.

10. THE GIFT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. As an indwelling guest the Holy Spirit "was not" given while Jesus was on the earth (John 7:39). But after his glorification in heaven as King of kings, he authorized the apostles to promise the gift of the Holy Spirit to all who obeyed the gospel (Acts 2:38; 5:32). Without Acts-Revelation one would not know of this heavenly gift.

45 years and counting!!

2007-03-13T18:13:00.000-04:00

Today I attended a funeral of the dad of a good friend of mine. A real good friend. I met Randy in my driveway in 1962. That is about 45 years ago. At that time, we would never have guessed that we would have continued in relationship for this long.

There were 4 of us altogether. All lived on Oak Ridge St in Richmond, VA. We called ourselves the Oak Ridge Boys. We did so much together. Good Stuff, Bad Stuff - we went through jokes together, girls together, sports together and just about anything else together.

In the early days, we did not have a spiritual life together. We were just guys trying to get all we could out of life. Then one by one we began to encounter Jesus Christ. It took along time from 1972 to about 1980. But the Lord drew each of us to himself.

Now so many years later. We all walk with Jesus, and our wives. We are in leadership in 4 different churches and many different ministries. And we seek to stand with Jesus and with each other whatever it takes. Now the next stage: We stand with each other in the dark days of dealing with the losses of our parents and the transitions of our families. Several of us are now grandparents (not me). And we are beginning to think about the next steps.

Thanks Randy & Boys - you encourage me to stand with you as you stand with Jesus.

angry

2007-01-30T11:32:00.000-05:00

What Can I Pray When I'm Angry?
by Terry Gooding

* Lord God, I pray that I will become wise and learn to hold back my temper. "A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control" (Prov. 29:11).
* Help me not go to bed with anger in my heart. "Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry" (Eph. 4:26).
* Cause me to put aside anger and wrath from my life. "But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage . . . " (Col. 3:8).
* Teach me to be a person who is understanding and slow to anger. "A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly" (Prov. 14:29).
* Give me strength to turn away from anger and seek the righteousness of God. "For man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires" (Jas. 1:20).
* Help me not to be the kind of person who causes conflict. "An angry man stirs up dissension, and a hot-tempered one commits many sins" (Prov. 29:22).
* Guide me so that my anger will not become sin. "In your anger do not sin" (Eph. 4:26).
* Show me how to be careful of my words so that I do not stir up anger in other people. "A harsh word stirs up anger" (Prov. 15:1).
* Teach me not to hold anger in my heart. "Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools" (Eccl. 7:9).

(Reprinted from Pray!'s online archives, Issue #28 January/Februry 2002.)

Ten propositions on preaching

2007-01-12T21:43:00.000-05:00

Ten propositions on preaching
by Kim Fabricius

1. What is a sermon? Wrong question. A sermon is not a what but a who. A sermon is Jesus Christ expectorate. You eat the book; it is sweet in the mouth but bitter in the stomach (Rev. 10:9-11); you spit out the Word and spray the congregation. When grace hits the mark, it always begins with an unpleasant recoil.

2. A sermon starts in silence. Before a preacher preaches, she must not preach, she must listen; and when she does preach, it is only because she has to preach. God gave us one mouth and two ears—and the preacher must use them in that proportion.

3. Sermon preparation is primarily the preparation of the preacher, not of the preached. The preparation of the sermon itself will only be as rigorous as the askesis of the preacher. Pray for the presence of the Holy Spirit—and then work like stink. If the Holy Spirit hasn’t been with the preacher in the study, he’s not going to accompany the lazy bastard into the pulpit.

4. Context, context, context. A text without a context is a pretext. The context of scripture, of course, but also the contemporary context—the Bible in one hand, the broadsheet in the other. The clash of two worlds: scriptura probat mundum.

5. Relevance? Blow relevance! It is God who determines relevance. Who wants to hear about relevance? For example, the forgiveness of sins, the whole of the gospel, is relevant—but not because, as the world thinks, the forgiver finds inner healing, but because the guilty one is a sufferer in need of acceptance and embrace. When relevance rules, the tail of the world wags the dog of the church.

6. The gospel itself is not “Repent and be forgiven”—that is sheer legalism—but “You are forgiven, and therefore now free to repent.” Even pagans say, “If you’re sorry, I’ll forgive you.” More to the evangelical point, how can we repent of sin when sin is only known as sin forgiven, when we can only know ourselves as sinners in the light of grace?

7. Technique? Skills? Voice coaching? Forget about them. A sermon is not oratory, a sermon is sui generis. Besides, all theological speech is broken speech. Moses had a stammer, and Paul was embarrassingly inelegant. Smooth tongues are often forked. What has been called “word-care,” however, is a different matter: the practice of word-care is crucial. Literature, particularly poetry, is the school of word-care. Remember: you are responsible for every word you preach.

8. And the latest technology? Woe unto “techies”! Technically, Richard Lischer observes that “when the brain is asked to multi-task by listening and watching at the same time, it always quits listening.” Substantively, if the medium is the message, how can the medium of IT—icon of postmodern power—square with the word of the cross? Lischer provides a thought-experiment: “What would Martin Luther King’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech look like in PowerPoint?”

9. Your congregation: know it, live it, love it. This is the perichoresis of preacher and community, and it must lie at the heart of every sermon. If you don’t laugh and weep with your people, you’ve got no right to expect them to hear you preach.

10. Finally, preach like there is no tomorrow—because there isn’t: in the sermon tomorrow is already today. Homiletics is eschatology. On the other hand, if you haven’t struck oil within twenty minutes, stop boring!

The End of Innocence

2006-11-15T09:51:00.000-05:00

So what was it for you? When did you first realize that the innocence was gone? Was it a particular event? Was it the terrorism attack of 9/11? Was it a divorce? Or a loss of a friend?

Think back to when you did not know any pain or brokenness? Maybe it was childhood memories of a Birthday Party or a trip to the Beach or a Fair or Busch Gardens? It was a time when 'All was right in the World'.

This summer, I had the opportunity to watch my nephew as a 7 year old, who is having some difficulties with a condition similar to autism. I also was able to observe his parents. Their love for James is incredible (of course), but to see how they adjust their life for James' care is a ministry for me. They take long bike rides. There is an incredible amount of treatment required, which they so willingly provide. But it is no exaggeration to say that James has changed their life. But back to James: He is the happiest little guy - He has no anxiety. He is Innocent. He plays and plays. Interacts with people, loves TV. He never realizes all of the care that his condition warrents - and so shall it be.

I remember for me the end of innocence: I was a sophomore in High School. Good Friends, Great community, all was right in the world. In Chem class, I had a friend. Not really a girlfriend, but a girl who I just kinda "played" with. Her name was Amy. She sat in front of me with curly hair - It was a "flirty" relationship, but no real depth. And actually we never spent any time together outside of class.

So on one evening after a football game I remember looking out on Parham Rd and seeing flashing lights like an ambulance - And I remember thinking what is that about. The next morning I discovered that Amy and her boyfriend had been in an accident and were killed. At the time it was a shock, but it did not become a reality until Monday morning when I was sitting in class and the stool was empty, I could see straight through to the front of the class. No one said anything (because we all knew). There was just an empty stool! The end of innocence.

It was the first time I realized that something was terribly wrong in the world. People died. Relationships fell apart. The parents of friends got divorced. Relatives got really sick and died. There were robberies, shootings, crimes and things were broken.

Why would God allow this? Couldn't He stop it? Couldn't He make the Drunk Driver drift to the right into the culvert rather than left into Amy's car.

I think it was God's intention for us to be in relationship to Him just as it was with Adam & Eve. There was only one law. Easy to obey. Yet we couldn't obey it. We were convinced that we could manage life without that relationship. We moved away - and I believe that is when the Universe lost its innocence.

Sin entered the world.

well the world says...

2006-11-09T22:53:00.000-05:00

"And in that moment I knew Success not greatness was the only god the entire world served." - Drew, Elizabethtown

Franklin Eugene McCain

2006-10-27T01:38:00.000-04:00

The Greensboro 4 ,

I had a great opportunity to meet one of the 4 men who as freshmen at North Carolina A&T walked down to Woolworth's and sat at the lunch counter and stayed during serving hours for the next 5 months until they were served. It spoke to me about the power that a student or a community of students can yield. These were men of conviction who saw injustice and were willing and able to stand out for what their convictions convinced them of. They had a strong heart that allowed them to make bold moves. They had available time which allowed them to work out the sit-in around a student's schedule. They had a community of friends and supporters who would come and sit with them and for them when they just needed to be somewhere else, like class. They had the actual belief that what had always been done was wrong and that with a strong but humble voice they couls see change come.

2006-10-19T11:59:00.000-04:00

World's Largest Pillow Fight

2006-10-19T11:56:00.000-04:00

Guiness World Record - Largest Pillow Fight

Catalyst 2006, some of it was serious as well

The Cross of the Servant...

2006-07-22T13:01:00.000-04:00

" As for the cross of the Servant, it is not strange to us. In that we stand with the mainstream of Christian faith from the beginning onward, and we do well to do so. We enthrone that crucified Saviour in stained glass, wood and stone - and in doctrine. To that cross we look for salvation. But we want not that cross at all.

Indeed, we would have it the chief business of religion to keep crosses far away. We want a Christ who suffers that we may not have to, a Christ who lays himself down that our comfort may be undisturbed. The call to lose life that it may be found again, to take up the cross and follow, remains mysterious and offensive to us.

To be sure, we labor to bring men to Christ, and we pray, "Thy kingdom come." But our labor we see as a labor of conquest and growth, successful programs and dollars. Can it be that we are seeking to build the Kingdom of the Servant - without following the Servant? If we do so, we will doubtless build a great church - but will it have anything to do with the Kingdom of God?"

~~John Bright, _The Kingdom of God_ p. 154

What are the top 6 questions students are asking?

2006-07-21T08:09:00.000-04:00

One of my summer projects was to draft a curriculum to use as the base of a seminar that could be offered to new students (and old if they were interested) about some of the fundamental issuews facing students on campus. Well it is now on the thin side of summer break - and I haven't thought about it yet.

So what are these issues or questions?

What about science and faith?

What about evil & suffering?

Is the Bible authoritative today?

The question of syncretism... Are there many ways to God? Aren't all religions basically the same?

La Vida Cruciform

2006-07-19T14:41:00.000-04:00

What if I really began to live my life everyday shaped by the cross of Jesus?

Would behaviors change?

What would I add to my life, and what would I take away?

Jesus spent every day of His 30plus years focused on one goal. That is, He was moving towards the cross. He knew it. He knew why.

When he ate with the tax collector - He did it shaped by the cross.

When he got down on the same level as the woman caught in adultery - He was shaped by the cross.

When he called the disciples - having pre-knowledge about them - He was shaped by the cross!

When He was teaching and loving those 12 men in John 17 - He was shaped by the cross.

When Jesus came along side those 2 disciples on the way to Emmaus in Luke 24 - He was shaped by the cross.

To determine what it means to be cruciform today think about what Jesus did in any given situation and then think about what you would do or how you would handle it. That will show you the difference.

When you can genuinely do things the same way as Jesus, and have motives that are not linked to what others may think about you - that is cruciform. When you stop asking Why or saying: "Not now Lord!" then you're beginning to life life cruciform...

** (thurs am:) As I reread this post I realized that last 2 paragraphs sounded a lot like "What Would Jesus Do" and with full apologies to Charles Shedd, that's not exactly what I meant. I think what I meant was - it's like an apprentice in the presence of the master craftsmen. It's not just changing behavior. It's allowing the craftsmen to guide and direct the apprentice to learn the skill with his guiding hands and words. It's not just doing religion "martyform" but it is thinking abt ALL I do cruciform - shaped by the Cross.

Cruciform

2006-07-18T11:19:00.000-04:00

OK, so I've learned a new word. Cruciform. Dictionary.com says: Cru-ci-form(krs-fôrm)
adj. Shaped like a cross;

To put this adjective in front of anything makes it take on incredible meaning: cruciform church, cruciform evangelism, cruciform preaching...

I'm not sure about words not related to kingdom work, cruciform breakfast, cruciform car repair, but for eccleiastical words - WOW! it has incredible impact.

Do I approach my discipleship, shaped like the cross? Am I an evangelist, shaped by the cross? Is my church - shaped like the cross.

So what is the other side? Isn't the church still the church even if I don't say CRUCIFORM? I think what it does, at least for me, is it puts a renewed focus on what the subject is all about. Sometimes if I'm in discipleship mode - it can really be all about me. But if my discipleship is cruciform then it means that I've gotta get out of the way. It's all about Him.

and SO the Old Testament.... yea what was I thinkin'

2006-07-17T23:58:00.000-04:00

In this summer when I am putting some work into spiritual formation and spiritual direction, I decided to take a class in Old Testament Theology. I'm in Charlottesville, taking a 1 week intensive at the C'ville Christian Study Center. I'm trusting in the midst of this that the Holy Spirit will somehow translate OT theology to Spiritual Formation stuff.

In class last night, we spent 3 hours in Genesis 1-3. And I learned that because of issues related to the Fall, "Life is Upside Down (inversion) and Inside Out (expulsion)." In other words things are incredibly messed up! God's design was for us (humans) to be vice-regents (with Him) over the earth. We were designed to worship Him and rule the world. Positionally, it was to be God, us, animals; but in the fall - humans took orders from the serpant (animals) and disobeyed God. We flipped the order from God -> Human -> Animals TO Animals -> Humans -> God. Then while we were supposed to be in the Garden - because of our disobedience we were kicked out (expelled) from the Garden.

Now hasn't it been that way ever since? I find myself so controlled by the earth and not really having dominion over it. I'm concerned about the weather everyday (maybe too much so). I fear the wind (hurricanes). I jump when a dog barks. When I'm working in the yard I'm looking for snakes. And really I'm not a fearful guy! ALSO: It's hard work for me to worship God - but easy for me to worship about everything else that crosses my mind or eye. I know how it's supposed to be. I know I want to worship God and rule the world, but the disobedience problem still gets in the way.

Well it's gotta be about Jesus, I am reminded (as I read Genesis) of Philippians 2:5-11. Jesus is the answer He is the ruler who shows us in his humanity how to rule and in His divinity how to be worshipped.

Philippians 2:5-11 --
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,
but made himself nothing,
taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.

Now that is a perspective I can understand: Paul also says: "Copy me as I copy Christ."

Discipling Part 2

2006-07-14T12:13:00.001-04:00

Am I approaching this all too simply?

In a conversation this AM, I said: "There is a great need for men to "disciple" men." In reply, a friend said, "Discipleship is really hard!".

As you can probably imagine, my quick reply was: "Oh, it is not. It is very easy if you can just take a little initiative, then you can disciple." The conversation got kindof intense at this point. As the talk ensued we really embarked on the 2 primary tracks of discipling, Curriculum and Process.

His reply to me was: "Discipling is more than just hanging out with another man. It is intentionally helping him grow in:
1) Assurance of salvation
2) Daily study of the Word
3) Articulating the whole Gospel to a seeker.
4) Learning to forgive and offer forgiveness.
5) Being in a church, a small group and regular fellowship.
6) Talking to God regularly. (prayer).
Most men do not have the knowledge or the resources to be able to train another man in these areas. They really just have the time to spend daily time in the Word themselves and try to raise their families in a Godly way."

OK, I was pretty upset at this point!

I cannot take exception with these points. I really believe them! I actually kindof use these "topics" in my discipling. It is the classic Curriculum model of discipling. But my struggle is the attitude of how we need to be prepared in order to disciple (or evangelize, or share a testimony or whatever). And we are so "busy" or whatever that we cannot take the initiative. I would contend - like riding a bike - once we start doing it we get better & better!

Am I totally naive here?

Of course discipling is more than getting together and talking about the World Cup (which we men tend to do). But I am convinced, as I meet with another guy, talk about sports, then family, then work, then 'How I(we) have seen God at work in my(our) life this week' then we are "discipling". Or maybe we can talk about how the sermon on temptation on Sunday really helped me in my personal struggles this week.

So for me Discipling is less about agenda and curriculum and more about taking initiative, getting to know another believer and sharing the big picture of what God is doing in us and around us. It's a process of helping another believer learn to grow closer to Christ.

Fish & Chips in Jack's seat

2006-07-12T22:00:00.001-04:00

One of my favorite memories of the London trip was the day in Oxford. Eventhough it was the rainiest day, just being in the midst of the Oxford colleges and especially being able to learn about C.S. Lewis, see his house, hear the stories and walk the streets he walked was quite a joy. .

My good friend Doug Gresham helped me arrange a tour of the Kilns. We were accommodated by Tom Ward, a resident of the manse who provided an excellent synopsis of Jack's life before and after Joy came into his life. He showed us all the rooms and talked about the restoration and the conversion into a complete study center.

I was quite elated to be in the Kilns, to see the chair, the pipe and the typewriter of this man who has contributed so much to evangelical Christianity. Hmm! maybe my next job will be to be the Kilns Curator or at least a good sabbatical

The evening finished with a visit to The Eagle & The Child (aka: 'the bird & the baby') where we commandeered the seats where the Inklings sat and discussed so much theology, crafted their books & publications and even evangelized seekers. The picture is of Carolyn & Tripp sitting in Jack's seat in the corner by the fireplace.

Discipleship or Discipling?

2006-07-10T15:18:00.000-04:00

A colleague asked me recently, "Tell me what you do when you train your students in discipleship."

Well I kinda laughed to myself, because I tend to think of everything I do as training in discipleship, so how could I succinctly tell her how I do 'everything that I do'. My whole focus of ministry is on helping people go one step closer to Christ, or becoming more like Jesus everyday - whatever it takes.

First of all let's get one thing out of the way. For so many years there has been this confusion between discipleship & discipling or disciple-making. So some quick definitions:

Disciple - noun, personal, a person who is a follower of Jesus Christ. Technically it is just a pupil of a teacher, but it has come to be specific of Jesus as the teacher.

Discipleship - a noun actually talking about taking on characteristics of being more like Jesus Christ. Being more of a servant, or more of a healer or showing love to those without love, etc.

Discipling - a verb describing more of learning to be a disciple often involving another older/more mature disciple. Also an adjective defining a relationship between 2 disciples.

Disciple-making - a noun describing the intentional practice of helping a new or young believer become more like Jesus.

All seems a bit confusing doesn't it? Or if you are used to the terms they can be 'christianese' to keep others out of the lingo-circle.

So it seems like there is a movement to find new words to say this same thing in a better more coherent way. The current terms are Spiritual Formation or Spiritual Direction. There are tons of new books and periodicals helping us on the journey of spiritual formation. I can also consult a spiritual director (peer, lay or professional) to help me in my spiritual formation.

But how did I answer my colleague:
"I mostly do it on the fly depending on what I'm reading, thinking about etc.
For instance last year I used about 5 chapters from Donald Miller's books (_Blue Like Jazz_ & _Searching for God Knows What_.
Two years ago I did some Marcus Buckingham stuff
All of this is seasoned with a lot of "Barnabas", etc

Some basics though:
_Master Plan of Evangelism_, Coleman
_Soul Talk_, Crabb
_In The Name of Jesus_, Nouwen
_Working the Angles_, Peterson

One key is to help the student leaders define "What is a disciple of Christ?" or "What does it mean to be a Christ-follower @ your campus today?" (from their perspective, hopefully you will have tons of different ones)
that concept then frames what becomes their curriculum.

So it is...

Kingdom principle in action

2006-07-01T00:33:00.000-04:00

On a post I made on June 6, "Love & Anger Part 1" I wrote about how Christians deal with (or don't deal with) anger and conflict between them. And I guess I am in the midst of one of those right now, personally - and I don't want to deal with it. Rather even though I described how to Agape someone through a conflict, I'd rather just sweep it under the rug.

My justification is I didn't do anything wrong - as far as I can tell. The easiest scenario is that there were several misunderstandings between 2 brothers in Christ. And then a lot of passive aggressive behavior. There was no direct conflict, but whatever I did (the misunderstandings) really caused my friend to "tailspin". Eventhough we were in a group together - there was no more communication between us. When I'd come into a room he'd move to the other side. I know, It's kinda 4th grade isn't it?

So what were the "misunderstandings"? First, on a particular night, I went on the beach for a walk by myself (I guess I should have invited him). Second, we had talked about doing a special meal together, I priced and ordered the food - because I couldn't find him. Third, I invited a 3rd family to our meal, without telling him first. That was it, as far as I can tell.

It looks like we are going to leave this place unreconciled. He has not spoken to me in 3 days. I feel like I did nothing wrong. To go to him and do the steps I talked about would admit I was wrong.

Hmm! quite a dilemna? Thanks Lord for making me the illustration in my own story.

To be continued....

Seen and Testify...

2006-06-27T11:51:00.000-04:00

I John 4:14 "And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world."
WOW what a vantage point John the Apostle has... And all of the other apostles. He is able to say that he has SEEN and TESTIFY to the life of Jesus Christ. It is not just some trumped up vision. The testimony to the presence of Christ can be verified by a number of men all within the same generation. And their writings were well broadcast so that the credibility of the message or the writer would have been denied before the 1st century Gnostics got at them.

Not only has he seen Jesus Christ, but he knows the spiritual ramifications that the presence of Christ began. He was sent by the father to the savior of the world. So it is both the physical presence of the living Christ and the spiritual salvation of his ultimate purpose.

Just for a thought: Wouldn't it have been incredible if we were able to be in the physical presence of Christ? To see Him walk with his disciples or heal the broken that came to Him, or do battle with the religious leaders would give us a completely different take on who He is.

Now, we can see, feel & experience the presence of Christ through the on-going presence of the Holy Spirit (and that is enough for me). I have no doubt as to the authencity of what He did & came to do and the fact that He did it. But just to dispel the scoffers- if there had just been a DVD of that day or some other physical record. I guess that is why there was such an emphasis by the early church fathers to find and preserve the relics. But a public identifiable record of his work! There would still be scoffers of course - but for many more of us His presence would be authenticated and His name would be glorified!!

Hmm! relationships...

2006-06-26T09:44:00.000-04:00

There is perhaps too much talk anyway on this subject. Toby Keith says: "Too much talk, not enough action." OK, forget I wrote that. But in a conversation yesterday with a dad of 2 in college & one grad. He asked the question, "None of my kids are in significant relationships now, even the 23 year old, should I be worried?" I tried to not let my laugh be noticed.

That he should be worried about this situation is funny enough. I know parents are directly connected to the health and well-being of their offspring for the rest of their lives. I mean my mom was, up until her last day on earth. But worry is not going to help, either is a personal lecture (as parents are want to do). There are many reasons for his concern: his personal satisfaction of having a "full quiver" for several generations (grandkids), his concern that his kids are happy through marriage, perhaps, it seems normal to be married, and his concern that he wants his kids to get on with their life.

Well he asked for my advice, so I complied. I said: first, I believe the philosophy delivered by I Kissed Dating Goodbye has done more to hurt development of relationships than any thing else I know of. The reason is not that anything the book or philosophy talks about is harmful. It is actually Biblical. Maybe it some small communities the philosophy works. It's just that, IMHO, some of the stated expectations are unrealistic. In the current college situation it is too hard to think in terms of building family relationships when the guy's home might be in Florida and the girl's might be New Mexico. And the implied situation is that all parents and kids are from Godly backgrounds. I find that rare at a secular school. So within a reasonable time frame I believe it is completely legit to get to know someone and gradually move into their world as God continues to affirm the time together.

Second, I believe that non-Christian guys just know how to "date" better than we Christians do. Eventhough their motives might not be pure, you can at least say they know what they are doing. They, non-christian guys I'm talking about, know how to "court" better than we do. They flirt, tease, pursue. While so many times we stand back because we want to "guard their hearts" or maybe it is out of fear. I would propose that we begin to treat women like women and men like men. Understanding that knowing the differences between us (gender-wise)will help in oh s omany issues, not the least of which is marriage.

Third, I believe that Christians tend to be afraid of pursuing a relationship for fear that it "might not be the one". The proverbial Guidance of God issue. Now don't let me diminish the role of God's WIll. I definitely believe in it! And it has definitely worked for me - after all Carolyn is the one (all 28 years of it)! And I knew it was true at the right time, but not at the beginning of the relationship. Of course there is "The One" but we aren't going to know who that is until we invest in some healthy relationships.

2 days worth...

2006-06-18T17:18:00.000-04:00

I can't even begin to complete the thoughts I've had in the last couple days. Let me just lay them out and maybe I can come back to them and write them out later. A great conversation last night about philosophy of ministry with a professor, who is a former student of mine and simplistic faith and how to bring true faith into the marketplace of ideas. Also, at the same gathering, a conversation with a retired businessman about how he has seen God lead him through success & failure to faith and dependence

Then today manning the Father's Day tables (book give away) at Chapel - all 3 services. I had a conversation from a new believer about divorce and how to agape/forgive/tolerate an unloving ex-spouse. Another conversation about a sexually abusive step-father and Godly healing. And another one on how to love an ungodly spouse. Several conversations about an "empty nest"

Largest Church in America

2006-06-17T11:48:00.000-04:00

Last night on Nightline - a show that I do not watch very much, they were featuring Lakewood Church & Joel Osteen. Lakewood is reportedly the largest church in America. 40,000 people in Sunday attendance (is that at one service?) and Mr Osteen said they would probably outgrow their current facility, which is the former arena for the Houston Rockets.

I do not know very much about him or the church, except that his book is front & center in every Borders or Books-A-Million I go in. But last night he was saying that he wants to present a message of hope & encouragement. All is positive, He said that not everyone has to be rich, but all of us need to receive goodness from God.

When asked why there was not a cross visible in the church, although he dodged the question a bit, he seemed to imply that it is more important to think about the person of Christ and how the Holy Spirit works in the world (thus a globe is at the center of the staging area).

Evil & Suffering

2006-06-16T14:40:00.000-04:00

Is this really the #1 question people have about faith in God? (Why would a just God allow so much Evil & Suffering in the world?) Well so I am told.

I believe the world does not see a distinction between evil & suffering. Evil, could it be simplified to mean an intent to harm another? And suffering, is pain and brokenness caused by something not being right (an illness, a natural disaster, a circumstance gone wrong, etc.). But today many would say suffering is what is evil. Is that right? We try to do everything possible to avoid suffering. We try to avoid risk. Don't you love the screwdrivers at Lowe's or Home Depot, that say "FAILURE TO USE GOGGLES WHILE USING THIS TOOL COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO LIFE AND LIMB." I mean perhaps, but it almost becomes a psychological disadvantage to read the warning. I end up thinking the whole time I'm using it to tighten the bolts in the Kitchen: 'Oh, I wish I had bought some goggles.'; then the screwdriver slips off, gouging a bit of skin off my knee - and I start to wonder if I'm gonna lose a limb.

One of my mentors, Dick Woodward, suffers more than I (we) can imagine. Pain comes to him - daily, hourly, moment by moment. Yet, he is stronger in Christ as a result of his disability than if he had not had it, because as he is weakened he has had to learn to be more dependent on God. He feels like the disease (a degenerative spine condition) has allowed him to concentrate and focus more on ministry and Bible Study and translation than if he had remained in the pulpit these last 15 years. For Dick the suffering is not evil, it is mobilizing. Instead of reaching a congregation of less than 1,000. He reaches nations, coming close to a billion listeners all from a paralyzed man in Williamsburg Virginia. And he still is able to meet and preach to many who come to his door.

Don't get me wrong, I am not looking forward to suffering of any kind. I get scared when I'm stung by a bee, or if my airplane hits some turbulence, or if my skin is gouged by an erratic screwdriver. But I think we better be careful equating Evil and Suffering as one and the same.

Evil can cause suffering. There are forces of evil in the world seeking to do harm. The evil one is prowling like a lion looking for someone to devour. Evil forces unchecked can bring all sorts of trouble.

Can evil come from natural causes? We know that terrorism is evil and we can even define some of the sources. We can name them.

But what about systemic evil - poverty, racism, injustice. We can argue that this evil has a name too. It causes suffering.

But what about natural events: decay of a mind & body due to Alzheimer's or a rare respitorary disease that takes a person's life in days of being healthy or earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, etc. What is the cause of this evil? Is the spiritual battle that rages inclusive of personal, nature & other humans?

Let's wrestle!

Summer Study Plan

2006-06-15T12:18:00.000-04:00

Well I finally decided... What area of study I was going to work at this summer. I always like to focus on developing in a particular area to help "sharpen the cutters (or saw)" as it were. So much of my Fall and Spring is spent expending information and energy, that I need to re-group or re-coop in the Summer. I always think of the Henry Kissinger quote: 'When I got to the White House, I realized that I had to rely on the intellectual capital that I had already built up. I had no time to keep building, things were coming at me so fast all I could do was maintain.' (recited loosely here).

Several years ago, I chose "Women in Ministry" and read most of the (then) contemporary books related to this topic, studied the passages, talked to senior staff and several pastors, read current periodicals, learned the InterVarsity policy & position, etc. trying to get a solid understanding on this issue. It really helped me since I talk to so many young women during the year to know what the issues are. Plus I work with female colleagues and I want to understand what they have to deal with, and this can be such a contenscious issue in the Church today.

Then I chose "Public Speaking or Preaching". I took a homiletics class. I read some classic texts as well as some contemporary books. I listened to about 100 sermons from a plethora of preachers. I may even have learned to speak better, but I mostly learned that I am glad God gifted me more in the discipling area (personal preaching) rather than pulpit preaching.

On another occasion, I took the ML 530 class from Fuller Theological Seminary, Lifelong Leadership Development, It was based on Bobby Clinton's model of discipleship and figuring out how to use what God has given us. I studied: Joseph (of technicolor dreamcoat fame), Barnabas, Billy Graham and myself, among others. It's where the philosophy of ministry -I wanna be like Barnabas- came from.

Also I've studied "Leadership" from a management as well as a ministry perspective. I was able to read only some of the texts on this subject as they seem to be published mulplicitively. I learned that the greatest model of leadership from both paths is Servant Leadership. Also, some of the most provacative teaching on Leadership is coming out of the Christian community.

One year I studied Counseling, in order to help know how to deal with difficult circumstances with students. I took a class from the Christian Counselors Training Center, met weekly with the director. I wrote a paper on Guilt. I learned how to do basic Biblical problem solving and how to know when to refer.

On another summer I took a Sabbatical and talked to Christians around Europe: missionaries & business people, pastors & laymen. I learned about Catholicism, C.S. Lewis, Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, post-Christian westerners. I read C.S. Lewis, George MacDonald, Susan Howatch among others. I spent countless hours with Doug Gresham (C.S. Lewis' stepson). But most of all that was the Summer I learned about a theology of GRACE. I would say the sabbatical brought a major paradigm shift to my work.

Last Summer, I studied "The Prophets". I read classic texts from Jewish & Christian backgrounds. I read all of the Prophets in the Bible. I took a class on the Minor Prophets. I saw men who were sold out for God in the midst of crazy life circumstances.

So what about the Summer of 2006? I am moving deeper into the subject of Spiritual Direction and Spiritual Formation. I believe I will read a number of current books, meet with several local Spiritual Directors and/or Pastors of Spirituality. I may even do some study on Soul-Types (using the personality types to help train & disciple). I will probably take a class on further Spiritual Direction.

Love & Anger part 2

2006-06-14T12:17:00.000-04:00

Now this topic is related to how we pass on a "bad report." OK let me define "bad report" - a bad report is a message that may or may not need to be passed on, but is frequently passed on so it looks like either appropriate information or gossip. It might sound like this: "We need to pray for 'SUZY' because she's falling away," and then this maybe followed by some description of how she's falling away.

When passing on a "bad report" in light of a church community or a fellowship group -it is frequently given some sort of sugar-coating - I guess the media or politicos might call this "SPIN". It's given a SPIN that makes everything look good up-front, but there is another story that is behind the scenes that only a few know about. Part of the 'game' becomes trying to find out the "real" story. This brings a kind of sickness & brokenness that stinks to the listener as well as the speaker.

I know these issues are difficult and we want to protect individual's feelings and help all understand that there is some information that does not / should not be disclosed. I think one thing that bugs me is - well the information really is being disclosed but just in a small elite circle.

So what can be done to give an appropriate spin (and honest and with integrity) to passing on a bad report?

1) To have the 2 opposing parties talk to a 3rd party. To get the issues and feelings out. In that discussion, there should be an openness to share what needs to be disclosed to the public and to individuals and everything else should be prayed about and discarded. This meeting can be as a whole group or in 3 or 4 parts.

2) There would not need to be a false sense of 'support', rather there is no need to make it look like this "bad report" is just another level of spirituality. If there is animosity between 2 brothers or sisters; or if there is a moral collapse; or if there is a theological disagreement then say as much as briefly and candidly as possible.

3) After the presentation is given then it becomes an issue of supporting this brother or sister to the highest level possible (the keyword is possible). In reference to Christian community, Bonhoeffer urges us to not ignore the sinning brother when he says "...Is not the sinning brother, still a brother?" As well, a mentor once said to me: "Make sure you always stand with people who stand for God - even in the midst of their brokenness and sin, that's when they will need you most."

4) It seems to me the issue is really related to the difference between "How We look, externally" or how we live, internally." Am I the 'white-washed tombs' that Jesus condemns or am I truly His from the inside-out?

5) Do not pass on a bad report to a 3rd party. Instead go directly to the offended source. In fact try to get the 2 parties together.

6) Working with sinful people is always messy. And as far as I can tell we are all sinful.

Love & Anger part 1.

2006-06-09T17:11:00.000-04:00

In a conversation recently, we were talking about - well actually it is 2 different topics but kindof related... One has to do with how Christians and/or the church communicates bad news. The other topic is how does the kingdom of God work when there is anger, resentment, bitterness et al, between at least 2 members.

Well let's jump in. If we believe 1 John, when he talks about Loving One Another as a sign of knowing that we love God. And specifically Chap 3, verse 12 - "Do not be like Cain who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother's were righteous." Wait a minute! Cain & Abel had the same parents. They got the same theological up-bringing. So what happened to Cain? Why was he the one who sided with the evil one? Without looking too deeply at the nature of Cain's "gift", let's just look at the result. Cain & God had a conflict. Abel, the younger brother offered a sacrifice that pleased God. God gave Cain a reasonable warning and a way to redeem his error. But Cain HATED his brother and took out his anger on Him. Cain's offense was with God. Abel did nothing to displease Cain. Rather than reconciling to God - Cain hated & murdered Abel.

So what is that with us today? Well try this: There is brokenness in relationships between Christians all the time. Some are probably deserved, some are certainly not deserved. But if we believe 1st John - then we should be marked by the love we have for each other. John goes so far as to say that if we do not have Agape Love for our brothers & sisters then we probably do not know God in the first place (Eww! how harsh!). This agape has to supercede the anger and hatred.

How can I control that anger? That is the 'Sin that is crouching at the door'. Many times we use the "doormat" excuse as a way to justify the anger. We'll say: "I'm tired of being treated like a doormat." Many times that is just the rationalization that we offer. First of all I am so glad that Jesus did not have that attitude when the pharisees were building their case or the townspeople were flocking to be healed! Doug Holladay use to tell me: "Being a Christian is like being a deadman on furlough" That is my life is already spent (actually given over to God) anything that happens to me is just part of my furlough. I can't be a doormat, I'm already a sacrifice.

How can I be reconciled to my brother? Many times the 'flaw' is something that can't be talked about. It might be a personality trait or a naive behavior or an incorrect perception. It is easier to talk about the situation to others than it is to talk to the person. And because of anger (that creeps in) we say things that we regret, but repress. I must try to keep short accounts. When 'offended' I need to go to my brother and try to reconcile.

How can I love (agape) through that anger? If I hate someone this could lead to 'murder' (maybe just in character, but murder nonetheless). But if I purpose (with God's help) to Agape someone then this leads to sacrifice. I will sacrifice to love this person who I hate. Is that possible? NO of course not, but that is where God comes in. He wanted to help Cain deal with his anger, to present a worthy sacrifice and to live rightly.

I know of situations in the Christian community where Godly people have taken to bitter words to justify their positions at the expense of innocent people. And to be honest, sometimes those bitter words & thoughts are from me. Let this new Agape begin today!

A Real Christian?

2006-06-08T11:33:00.000-04:00

In a recent conversation with an acquaintance, we were talking about 'Acts of Service'. She mentioned that a friend of hers who was always available, and actually looking for ways to serve was a 'Real Christian'....

Hmm! I kindof resented this classification - because it subtly seemed to exclude me. Rather, I'm not sure she would characterize me as a 'Real Christian'. Oh maybe, she might consider me to be a 'professional Christian', because it is my job (or something). But whatever category she puts me in, we all know this designation of a 'Real Christian'. We've probably been known to use it on occasion.

Now it can have several applications: By some a Real Christian, might be because he/she is "on-fire" for the Lord, or sold-out, or uncompromising - in all of life's matters; such as job/vocation, relationships, time management, etc. For some a Real Christian: might be someone who looks for opportunities to preach the Gospel - uncompromising in evangelism. For some a Real Christian could be linked to his/her theological acuity ("To give every man an answer"). For others, (like my friend) it could be because of their hospitality or ability to serve other people. It just seems to me that while all of these descriptions could be accurate, they also are all based on external factors and could just as easily be performed by people who do not have Christ in their heart.

Dick Woodward has said on many occasions many people are missing Heaven by 18". That is the distance between a person's head and heart. So what does The Bible say about being designated as a Real Christian. Well Acts tells us that "The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch" (acts 11:26) After Barnabas had spent a year there - teaching many. Barnabas was sent to Antioch to help the church and he was characterized as 'a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.'

The Gospel of John says "To all who received Him (Jesus),to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God." There aren't any particular refereences to actions, passions or services. It is almost a secret designation. If we 'receive Him', 'believe in His name' - we're in. I guess as my love and understanding grows for Christ then the 'things' I get to do grow as well.

A WEDDING in Lexington

2006-06-03T10:32:00.000-04:00

Two days ago London, England; Yesterday Williamsburg, Today Lexington! And I was just in Lexington about 10 days ago - finishing up my time at Rockbridge. But this day is the celebration of the marriage of 2 good friends. What a joy it is to be here and see these 2 commence their life together.

Marriage: seen in so many aspects today. Our culture says: "Why bother?". While in England last week - the Parliment passed a law giving equivilency rights to co-habiters. That is, those who have a pattern (the pattern is yet to be determined) of living together without being married. When these co-habiters decide to end their relationship they can appeal to the courts for "benefits" from each other. So it is like a divorce without ever being married in the first place. WOW! That's confusing. Also, even for those who do get married the potential that each union ends in divorcre is staggering. Are these folks-in-love thinking about commitment or is it just the right thing to do? Is marriage today based on feeling, only?

Opinion #1 - We should have a way to celebrate longevity in marriage. There should be public honor for couples who reach 10yrs, 20yrs, 30yrs etc.

Opinion #2 - It seems like Christians have a higher view of marriage. At least they take the time to meet with a minister, to talk about long term commitment & see what the Bible has to say about marriage. I'm actually not sure about the standards about other religions - perhaps they have just as high a standard of commitment as Christians. BUT: even with this higher view of marriage there is still way too much divorce.

Opinion #3 - As a matter of personal character development we need to work on understanding what marriage is - before we even think about entering into it. Read books on it. Talk to people who have been married a short time (3 months to 4 years); a long time (5-20 years) and an extremely long time (25yrs to 60 yrs). Read what the Bible has to say about marriage. Talk to people who prefprm marriages - ministers & judges, and see how their opinions differ.

Opinion #4 - Before getting married, a couple should read & study the traditional vows. Learn why the vow-creators placed so much emphasis on strength, grace, community support & God's blessing.

So what is my part in this wedding today? I have quite an honor (being a little prideful here). The bride & groom have asked me to assist them in their first act of worship as husband and wife - to share Holy Communion.

Surprised by London

2006-05-25T17:44:00.000-04:00

So there I was in the British Library - and I discovered all of the Biblical Manuscripts that I thought I would have to scour the British Museum for hours to find. I will go back when I'm not jet-lagged. BUT while I was there I heard a voice from across the hall - "Marty, Marty". In London, in the Library - Elise Hegelson was there, Sophomore from W&M involved in IV & GI! WOW how fun was that.

Lavish

2006-05-24T09:31:00.000-04:00

1 John 3:1: "How great is the Love the Father has LAVISHED on us that we should be called the children of God!"

It struck me as an odd word when I saw it. Do you know what I mean? When you look at a word that you know exists, but then it just looks & sounds odd when you see it in a different context.

To be honest: when I first read it today, the image that came to mind of LAVISH - was like a dog 'licking' his master. I don't know maybe it's something like putting the 'L's together or something. Maybe it is a dog LAVISHING his love for his master by licking him and sitting on his lap (another L, I guess). I don't know. That's what I meant by it being an odd word. Lavish, does not mean lick in any context - but that is the image I got.

Dictionary.com says Lavish means:
1) Characterized by or produced with extravagance and profusion: a lavish buffet. See Synonyms at profuse.
2) Immoderate in giving or bestowing; unstinting.

So, the interesting thing about this is WE are the ones who should be LAVISHING LOVE on the Father - yet. 1st John tells us that HE Lavishes His love on us. And that is so that WE can be children of God. WOW! A double paradox here: Isn't this the norm with God.

OK - so because He saved us in the first place, we should be grateful and love Him. Yet because we needed to be saved He loved us (to save us). Then, even with our sin - He still loved us! (Rom 5:8) and apparently LAVISHLY - so that we might be His children.

It still looks like an odd word to me. But oh am I so glad it is a word!

Re-entry

2006-05-22T14:56:00.000-04:00

I do not re-enter well from CAMP.

It takes a long time, I'm sarcastic, somewhat grumpy, I'm always looking for that group of 300 people, when it gets close to a meal I listen for a bell to ring or a whistle to blow, and when the meal is over I stack all the plates, sort the silverware, and pour all the leftover drinks back into the Iced Tea Pitcher - then I go outside to talk to people. Except, there is no one outside, & Carolyn gets mad at me for ruining her Tea and leaving all the dishes on the table. Yesterday, at church (the right amt. of people)everybody looked at me so oddly when I asked them how their track was going. I forget everyone's names from W'burg (even really close friends). I want to talk about things that have happened in the last 2 weeks, but most of the stories are those kind that "you have to have been there" to understand.

Now, fortunately, Carolyn understands, she provides me with space, understands when I start to speak in gibberish and gently lets me return to normal (what is normal anyway?). She provides me with a reasonable amount of social interaction - with peers and helps me with their names and tries to interrupt me before I talk too much about the BLOB or the ZIPline (terms which most 50 yr.olds wouldn't understand). Even with all this preparation I vacillate between wanting to be back at camp and being glad I'm home.

Well what is the cause of all this anxiety and culture shock? After all it is not that much of a cross-cultural experience - it's just Lexington, VA. There are 2 reasons that I can identify. One is personal, the other is spiritual. Personally, I'm an extrovert, the classic kind. I feed off of being with people. They energize me. I love to be in a crowd, even if I'm not a part of it. I don't have to be the center of attention, just to be in the middle. So situations like camp are ideal for me. There is always something going on from 7AM until 2AM. Camp feeds all of those needs for me. And to even complicate it more - Camp comes at the end of the most intense campus time - closing regualr appointments, meals, parites, Senior good-byes. Campus time intensifies as exams approach. Then Camp, then I return to an empty campus, and sort-of an empty town (from my perspective).

And Spiritually, and I hope this is not too idyllic, camp is like a glimpse into heaven. There are God's people everywhere. Eventhough we are still sinners, we keep short accounts, we reconcile quickly. We support and encourage each other. We speak truth, but not worldliness. We rejoice in the Gospel. We give glory to God and not ourselves. All the content shared is from the Word. There is a choir that resmbles the Choir of the Kingdom, we are all singing praises to God. All of our needs are met. There is plenty of planned and unplanned time to be with God.

Well I am blessed, I wish everyone could get a 2 week glimpse of heaven. Something to look forward to an up-close look at God at work deeply in the lives of people including ourselves.

The Elder Brother...

2006-05-18T08:10:00.000-04:00

In the story of the Lost Son, (see text below) - There are really 2 lost sons. I believe the "elder" is just as lost as the "prodigal". Even to a certain respect it's a little easier to go after the prodigal than it is the elder. At least we know who he is and what he has done.

So how would we describe this Elder Brother, and let's figure out if we "are" one of them. 'The elder son was in the field when the prodigal came home' Hmm there are a couple of things here - The father was not in the field, he was looking for the son. Possibly what he had been doing every day since the son left. I am implying this, but it could be that there are multiple resentments going on for the elder.
1) a resentment that the father was not in the fields as well.
2) a resentment that the father was preoccupied with the prodigal son.
3) a resentment that the elder was not included in the feast-planning.
4) a resentment that 'no party was held for him.'

The elder son pouted when he heard what was going on at the house. His stubbornness did not allow him to even enter his own house. He was angry at the attention this lost son was getting! I guess the servants told the father, because he came out to coax him in and all he got was the whineing.

How can we relate to the elder brother? Well often there is a smugness in our spirituality. A haughtiness, that influences those returning prodigals. Things like: "How can you be in a fraternity/sorority and still be a Christian?" "Do you have regular Quiet Times?" "Have you ever been to a real church?" "Don't you go to church, at all?"

Also, there is an appeal to safety. That is, it is easier to be safe with my friends who are just like me, than develop reationships with prodigals. Someone may see you with them and get the wrong idea. They might 'bring you down' to their level. There is also an insecurity about hanging out with prodigals. They might ask us a question about the Gospel that we don't know the answer to. We don't want to turn them off. Finally, there is just a general disinterest in the prodigals and their lifestyles. We don't like hanging out with people like that. We have nothing to relate about.

How can the 'Elder Brothers' recognize their lostness? If you have a preoccupation with the field, there is a good chance you are lost. Ok, I have to state the obvious: Somebody has to be in the field. The work in the field must get done. If the father is spending all his time searching for the lost son, then the work is left undone. It is the job of those who are "home" to do the work. The field represents all of the good works that the Father's people are asked to do. The discipleship, the justise issues, preparation for the mission field, church boards, leading small groups of younger "ELDER" brothers, leading the father's programs,etc. Also, If you pout, whine or complain about the Father's decisions then there is a good chance you are lost. Our attitude is crucial in figuring out if we are 'lost' or not. If you've never looked for the Prodigal or it's been a long time, then you are probably lost. . There is something about being out there looking for the prodigals that helps us gain perspective about what the Father sees in them.

How can we return to the house where the Father and the Prodigals are? Also, the house where the party is. OK here I can offer a bit of a personal testimony. Don't get me wrong, I still think I live too frequently in the field. I love the field! There is nothing like meeting with another Elder brother and helping them understand Lordship issues, connecting an alumnus with a church, helping to plan a missions trip, learning about God's word with a student. But several years ago with the "coaxing" of several friends on campus, I learned that there is good reason to be searching a long way off for a 'returning prodigal'. There is a place for leaving the field and sitting at College Delly or Aroma's or even the Daily Grind and welcoming back (or sometimes even for the 1st time) a Prodigal. There is a joy, an excitement, a freshness that took over my day-to-day walk with Jesus. And maybe some people do say, "Marty, hangs out with drunkards and gluttons." But I want to be in the business of welcoming prodigals back to the kingdom. For me this is Greeks at W&M. I've been doing it now for 5 or so years. And sometimes hanging out with Greeks, is more field work, but sometimes it's running to meet the prodigal throw my arms around their neck and kiss them!

Reaching the Prodigals

2006-05-17T08:01:00.000-04:00

So when we think about reaching out on campus, who are we reaching out to? It seems like so many students at W&M have some kind of church or religious background, but once they get to college, well it seems like it moves to the back burner. It's not important anymore.

Don't get me wrong. There is a strong Christian community at W&M for that I am very very happy. It gives me something to do everyday. There are a lot of active Christians on campus. For the most part there is a good sense of comraderie, unity, as it were, between the groups. Christian students, eventhough they choose the fellowship they are most comfortable with (or most challenged by) they respect the other Christian fellowships. There is even a healthy curiosity between fellowships. But it is very easy for the Christians to be dependant on each other for all their social and spiritual needs. This is partly because there are so many of them and partly because hanging out with other segments might involve behavioral compromise.

But as a pastor friend says: "Yea, look at those W&M students - they are staying away from Church by the thousands." So as easy as it is to be smug about the size of the Christian community at W&M the reality is there many who have pushed it aside. But, quite possibly many of these could be seen as the Prodigal son in the Luke 15 passage. He squandered his inheritance on wine, women & song!

If you remember the story:

The Parable of the Lost Son
11Jesus continued: "There was a man who had two sons. 12The younger one said to his father, 'Father, give me my share of the estate.' So he divided his property between them.
13"Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.

17"When he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.' 20So he got up and went to his father.
"But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

21"The son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.[b]'

22"But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. 24For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate.

25"Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. 26So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. 27'Your brother has come,' he replied, 'and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.'

28"The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. 29But he answered his father, 'Look! All these years I've been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. 30But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!'

31" 'My son,' the father said, 'you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. 32But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' "

The prodigal received the inheritance, but did not have the benefits of the palace. He left convinced that he could find something bigger & better. Well that seems to be the state of many students at W&M. They have a taste of Kingdom living but for whatever reason, they have chosen to walk away from it.

We are beginning to think about what can we do to invite the prodigals back home. One of our objections might be dealing with the elder brothers who may be less likely to want the prodigal t ocome home.

So what is an evangelism initiative, anyway?

2006-05-16T08:51:00.000-04:00

It has been noted that while InterVarsity (and by that I mean BIG InterVarsity, not our local chapter) has increased events focused on reaching non-believers without a clear proclamation (although Pancake House would be one of those - 1200 people served without a clear presentation of the Gospel, in Word.) there has not been a major growth in seeing people on campus respond to the Gospel.

So IVCF has asked each chapter to begin an evangelism initiative. Hmm! what is that? I'm not exactly sure yet. But they have asked each chapter to provide a number (quantitative term) of students that they will effectively pray for as a chapter. So is it a PRAYER initiative? Well that could be.

Certainly the most effective tool for evangelism is prayer. And certainly we want to keep that on the forefront of all budding evangelists minds. That the Lord is working to bring all those who do not know Him - to Him. So will it work to direct His attention to a few names that we know. How do we pray for those who don't know Him. Do we pray: "Lord, please bring someone into 'Johnny's' life, who can speak the Gospel to him." or "Lord, 'Johnny' needs you now - you know what to do." or "Lord, please prepare me to speak your truth to anyone I see today, but especially for 'Johnny', as I will see him at 3pm." Or all of the above.

And what about the numbers? Is that a contrived & manipulated method or a helpful indicator to get the people of God on the same page as the Father's heart? WOW, Students really reacted to that last night. At least W&M students did not like having to quantify evangelism. "It seems so impersonal." "Are we trying to limit God?" "I'm not comfortable talking about numbers of converts." Yet, as we talked many in the room mentioned individual friends who needed the Lord. Some talked about a number of friends from the dorm who came to campus in the fall with every intention of getting involved in Christian or Church activities and then didn't. Now for some of these it's kinda awkward to bring it up.

Grace - "The New Legalism"

2006-05-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

A student made an interesting comment tonight. It got me thinking. Well actually I've had this thought before. She said something like: I know I'm supposed to do these "good works" because I get to do them, but I just feel like it's not enough.

Are we trying so hard to live by grace, that it has actually become a new kind of works righteousness. It's not really the 'Sin all the more' stuff that captivates us (that would be a form of anti-nominism). But I think it has become more of a perfectionism - I want to be the 'best Christian' I can be by showing God how good I am at being in a relationship with Him. Does that make sense?

So what is it? How do I live on the RIGHT SIDE OF THE EQUATION, without making it another thing that I strive to achieve? It's not about being lazy or complacent. But it is also not about striving hard to prove myself to God. It really is hard work. Like a marriage (and I believe God gave us marriage as a little tangible model of having a relationship with Him) there is nothing better but it takes a lot of effort and honesty. I can't 'work' at my relationship with Carolyn because then for some reason it just seems a little disingenuous. I just have to be in my relationship with her. Flowers on Mother's day is not a 'good work' - it's an expression of my love. I shouldn't have to think about that. But I also hurt her (sometimes knowingly and sometimes inadvertantly). I seek my own interest. I'm prideful. I retaliate when I should forgive. Each of these issues deserves and gets a response - sometimes involving pain (for both of us). But it is just all a part of marriage.

So it is with the Lord - "Cease Striving and know that I am God"(gen), "Come unto me all you who are weary and heavy-laden and I will give you rest"(matt 11:28), "There remains then a Sabbath-Rest for the people of God." (heb 4:9). Do we get it? It's hard work, but oh so easy. It's impossible, but God helps us make it possible.

What about Leadership?

2006-05-14T23:39:00.000-04:00

How do you challenge a leadership team? What are a few thoughts to say to Christian leaders that will help them make good decisions, listen to the voice of God and make plans for next year?

Tonight I had that chance. I was speaking to 50 leaders from 12 schools throughout VA, NC & SC. I didn't want to give them a 'How-to' list on what they should do. So I just gave them a couple principles to start with.

First principle: working with a Christian Leadership Team is like the TV show "24" you never know what to expect. The Good Characters often become the Bad Guys. And the difficult characters often become the heroes. "Perfect" leadership teams often get less than perfect results, the "weaker" leadership teams often excel beyond their limitations. The Lord will frequently use our weaknesses for His strength. Conversely, the "evil one" will use our strengths for his purposes. I Corinthians 1:18-31.

Second Principle: You were chosen as a team by Jesus Christ. The primary reason for a christian leadership Team is to be with Jesus. Mark 3:14 says "Jesus called 12 Apostles that they might be with Him." Doing ministry was secondary to being with Jesus. As you work through your team issues and developing your plan and strategy remember the primary task is to be with Jesus.

Third Principle: Make sure that Jesus stays on the Throne of your personal life and your team - ALONE. When I shared the Gospel with Mike White (A High School student, back in the YL days) He asked me if there was any way that he could be on the throne with Jesus. Jesus doesn't allow for shared responsibility. Rom 8:28 - All things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purposes. He is the center all power, vision, decisions flow out of that consistency. "Seek first the Kingdom of God and ALL these things will be added unto you."

Fourth Principle: Make sure you are living on the Right side of the equation. G+0=RSWG. The Left Side is G+0, means Grace plus nothing. If I am living on the left side of the equation it means that I try to help God out by adding to the ZERO. Things like daily quiet time, attending church, leading a small group, etc. Really, God doesn't need the help if it is seen as some kind of 'duty'. But living on the Right Side of the Equation means because of His love for me, the Grace He provides through death on the cross, I have the ability to have a right relationship with Him - that is RSWG=Right Standing With God. So as you do things for God - do not do them out of a duty or attempt to help Jesus - but out of a relationship with Him. It's about relationship. Like marriage for instance, if I had married Carolyn and had gotten to the end of the aisle and said: "That was nice, let's do it again sometime." or "Why don't we meet back here in a year and try this again" That would have been silly. Our relationship began at that point, eventhough we knew each other before. That's the same with Jesus. If you are living on the right side then things you do are because you GET TO not because you SHOULD or you HAVE TO.

Fifth Principle: Don't be too BUSY for the people in your chapter. If you love them you will be available to them, regardless. Take BUSY out of your vocabulary. It seems to have become the Key Word for those of us in ministry. It's like if I'm busy then I am more important in the Kingdom of God. That is pride. How many times did you see Jesus in the Gospels - going a way for a rest, praying early in the AM, taking the Disciples away for some quiet. He prioritized time with His father. Then out of that comes a compassion for the people who were following Him.

How to be mentored at 51...

2006-05-12T16:59:00.000-04:00

It's the Lawnmower guy! Every year when I come to Rockbridge, I look forward to a chat with John Hartsock the lawnmower guy. He told me today that this year marks his 50th year with Young Life. Not always as the Lawnmower guy. When John was in Montgomery County, MD he was a committee member, chairman several times, club leader, trip leader every year, camp staff, and now retired to Lexington and 'The Lawnmower Guy' at Rockbridge.

His wisdom and experience and MEMORY amazes me. We start talking about people we know and remember, then he'll tell a story (maybe about someone who became a famous YL staffer, who he caught when they were in high school - smooching behind the "Town Hall"). Then he'll talk about my friends that he remembers from High School & College and he'll tell me their God stories. People like Tuck Knupp, Pat Goodman, Mike O'leary, Tom Parker, Jim Cummings, John King, Doug Holladay, of course and so many others. John mentored and ministered to these young men (who in turn mentored & ministered to me). Then he will tell me stories of how God touched his life through more great men of the Lord: Dick Halverson, Doug Coe, Bud Bylsema and on and on. Can you see the chain - "Things you have heard me say, entrust to reliable people who in turn can teach others (2 tim. 2:2). That is what we are living out here. And once a year I hang out with this saint...

Do you know what he told me today? He's ready for the next challenge in YL. He wants to spend July & August at YL's Malibu Camp being the Yacht Captain. I didn't even know there was a Yacht Captain. Every summer there is a couple who (when the Whistle Blows) they go down to the dock and watch the random boat come in. They escort these people off the boat, give them a Captain's Tour of the property, treat them to a meal if the time is right and tell them about the wonders of kids' lives changed by the Gospel. What a PR opportunity that is!

Then my friend John encouraged me with the words of the Lord, "Let them know about people like me." he said. That is people who put the Lord 1st in all they do. That is people who will work to have enough money to invest time and energy in letting seeking high school kids hear the Gospel in a way that is tuned to their ears. That is people who will never quit the "Gospel Business". Whatever it takes!

I guess today I had my own Life After College track. I learned from John that this is not a business we retire from. The Lord's work takes many forms. If somebody needs their grass cut so that Kids can see excellence, we'll be there. If someone needs to talk to a fisherman, then the Lord will talk about fish. The Lord will talk about Wind & Weather to someone who wants to know about WInd & Weather. John's message - "Whatever it takes!"

Are we that sold out? Or is the Gospel that thing that we learn about in Church, or on a CD or at a conference? Or is the Gospel that thing we live when we look for every opportunity to preach the Gospel even if it's cutting Grass or baking cookies or being a Yacht Captain in British Columbia.

Thank You John - today you took me to school...

New in Christ

2006-05-11T23:47:00.000-04:00

She sat down at my table and as typically happens at camp meals everyone starts to introduce themselves. When she said her name, she said: "I don't really know why I'm here, I'm not that into IV." What an intriguing statement! In reply I said: "Oh really, why aren't you that into IV?" Off she went on a long trail.

She talked about how in High School and Middle School she was really into Christianity. She was in her youth group, young life and other Christian programs and missions trips. When she got to college, she had every intent of getting just as involved in Christian activities. But there was just something about being away from home - new freedoms - new opportunities. The girls on the hall were all about experiencing all of college life and my new friend just went along with them. She didn't know why. But a connection was made and before she knew it her desire to get involved in Christian things fell to the bottom of the list. It wasn't because interVarsity & Campus Crusade people didn't try. They came by, left her notes, invited her to Bible Studies to college fellowship meetings and anything else to get her involved, but she just passed them by.

So what was the ticket? How did she wind up at IV's Rockbridge Summer Camp? It was after Spring Break and she was alone on campus and actually she was feeling kindof lonely. A woman, actually the one who had been coming by to invite her to the IV Small Group Bible study, was walking by, stopped and asked her how she was doing. This started a long discussion that began with formalities and led to deep discussions about loneliness and faith and dependence on people and on God.

It all came rushing back to her. The fellowship, the community, the people who were selfless, who loved her regardless who had become a memory were now pushed up to the front again. And she realized what she was missing, but now there was a different problem. Why would God love her? She had turned her back on Him. She had forgotten her "First Love". She was the prodigal - squandering her wealth in foreign countries.

But the small group leader said that God wanted her back, He had been waiting for her for months. This was her chance to set things straight. So that was it - she prayed that night and began to get involved in regular campus fellowship opportunities. She met weekly with the Bible Study leader then the next thing she knew she was filling out the form and signing up for camp and then 20 days later she was sitting at my dinner table, learning about "Following Jesus".

Does God NEED us to do his witnessing? Of course not. But He does use us. That young woman walked by at just the right moment, a coincidence or a God-incidence - Because of God of course! And how about this work of His:
He touched my dinner partner
He touched the Small Group leader,
He touched me.

It was amazing!

Love of the Brothers

2006-05-10T22:08:00.000-04:00

I went to the funeral of the mother of a good friend of mine recently. Brent’s mom had been sick for awhile, but managed in her strength (or the strength of the Lord) to attend her 2 children’s weddings. There were great testimonies given by people far & wide. And to be honest it was a wonderful celebration. I was moved when I saw (and heard) Brent share his own thoughts.

At one point after the funeral, we were at a little reception and I looked over and I saw the 5 guys who at W&M had loved and cared for each other throughout it all. They seemed oh so much older than when they were running around on campus in soccer shorts. They surrounded my friend and their brother in Christ, consoling him, encouraging him, supporting him and loving him. They had come from Williamsburg and NOVA, Richmond and MD, to be together when Brent needed them. To me this was the epitome of a small group.

They had begun to meet freshmen year in a SG. It was awkward at first. They were just a little too competitive with each other – and when they began to meet some of the women in the chapter the competition even increased! But they met weekly for Bible Study and prayer and to do fun things together. They added a few folks and started to do some IM sports – “Jesus Doesn’t Fumble”, and “Jesus doesn’t Cross-Check”. One of them had a Mountain retreat home and they all went up there one weekend – the guy’s mom came along to cook. Except one morning she starts to ream her son out in front of the other guys about not studying enough. They supported each other thru difficulties: like girlfriend break-ups, struggles with moral issues, alcohol, family problems.

During Sophomore year, some of them lived together and that continued until graduation. They supported and cared for each other thru dating and courtships and now in parenting. They encouraged each other thru love and good deeds. They even still meet together at least a couple times a year (although they don’t bring moms along anymore)

So what was unique about this group? I wish I knew then I could reproduce it. But there were a couple things that I think I can identify that will help us as we deepen & develop small groups next year.

1) The Leaders were persistent. They kept going back and back getting these guys to come to their meeting. They wouldn’t take no for an answer.
2) They weren’t just being invited to a SG Bible study. They were being invited into the lives of the leaders (I Thess). Sports teams, overnights, Sno-To-Go, etc.
3) They put a high value on growing in Christ – going to church, coming to LG (they’d meet for dinner before), hearing a Christian speaker on campus, retreats & conferences, etc
4) They met at other times for prayer (weekly prayer partners)
5) They played together. IM teams, Play Station, Xbox
6) Discipleship was a part of their lifestyle.
7) Accountability was part of their lifestyle.
8) They loved each other regardless.
9) They became 3AM friends – that is the kind you can call at 3 in the morning.
10) They kept their secrets confidential.
11) They stood with each other, even at questionable times.
12) They spoke the truth in Love.
13) They did not neglect to meet together. (Heb 10:24,25)

Bible Study for French Tutors

2006-05-09T23:58:00.000-04:00

Femme is a french tutor at the College of W&M. She has been here all year. Sometime in February, one of our student leaders, Alyssa Bendict (far right) felt God calling her to begin a Bible Study with the French Tutors and their friends. None of them had Bibles and actually it was pretty hard to find French Bibles for them. We were able to get 6 of them and Alyssa began her study. Femme & Julia were the most committed, and the discussions began to quickly turn to questions about faith and the divinity & humanity of Jesus, as well as issues of theodicy. Alyssa was moved by the Lord and was able to engage the discussions beyond what she felt her abilities were. SHe would say the Holy Spirit led her.

Femme is the one who most clearly responded to the Gospel with a decision made at a local church on Easter day. She leaves soon to go back to France, finish her schooling and get a job. But with her she will take the relationships of many of her InterVarsity Friends and also possibly Alyssa herself will be in Femme's city.

The Lord is so good in that He uses his servants (Alyssa) eventhough He doesn't need us. By drawing Alyssa & Femme together there is a new name in the Kingdom and Alyssa saw the power of God work through her fluency of French and her desire to see another life in the Kingdom

Witness

2006-05-08T23:01:00.000-04:00

So the topic tonight was evangelism. We looked at how easy it is to be complacent about sharing the thing that we believe the most, with the people we care about the most. Marshall Benbow said that we have become so "tolerant" in our culture that the value of my faith has been reduced to the fact that it is my faith, and we think that other people can find it on their own. He said that he sees 3 drawbacks on campuses today.
1) We are not growing in prayer for the lost.
2) We are not growing in campus events that are specifically geared to PROCLAMATION.
3) We are doing events that are with more non-Christians, but without proclamation (events like BBQs & bowling tourneys).

Small Group Vision Camp

2006-05-07T23:08:00.000-04:00

Small Group Leaders Camp. A pastor told me that the greatest need in the Church today is trained Bible Study leaders. No one in the church has the opportunity to take a week or even a weekend to "get trained". Then I thought, We (InterVarsity) train 200 leaders a year in how to lead a Small Group Bible Study. Then we give them the practical experience of actually leading. What a gift to the church.

I just left our 1st session for 2006. There was a great opportunity to look at Mark 6 - Jesus Feeding the 5,000+. As well as an overview of what a SG is. Kevin helped us greatly with a visual image of a SG. There was a table on stage (actually 1/2 On & 1/2 Off stage) with 4 chairs around it. He picked up the 1st chair and said: "This chair, is for the baby Christians who should come to your SG, you will want to keep them. So don't make fun of them if they ask a seemingly dumb question like "How did John write the Gospel if the Governor had him beheaded?". Help them, love them, show them!" Then he picked up the 2nd chair and said: "This chair, is for the people who think theologically, don't let them answer every question, but allow them to help the rest of us understand it a little better. This 3rd Chair, I would like to paint black, so that we would always be aware of it. This chair is for the Non-Christian who should feel welcome and invited to your SG table. Make sure there is room at your table for the Non-Christian. In fact I would say it's not a SG if there is not a non-Christian there." Then he took the 4th chair, held it high and told us it was the Empty Chair. "There should always be an empty chair at your SG table in hopes that in your year you would fill it. Always be inviting, always be looking. Not just in August/September, when it is easy. But be inviting people to your SG in November or February or May. Let there always be an empty chair in your SG."

G+0=RSWG

2006-01-13T09:18:00.000-05:00

Sharpening the Saw!

Well T-minus12 days untio it all starts again. Am I prepared? Well let's just say I've got to do some "work" here, before I am ready to confront the new semester. Have I done anything? Oh yeah! It has been a rich holiday. Lots of reading, lots of cooking, lots of conversations, lots of thinking. Lots of work? Hmm - not so much.

One thot that I have been mulling is this idea abt the development of spirituality. Is there a process that tells us when someone is ready to get on to the next stage of discipleship. For instance the "Sin all the more - stuff". Is there a time in a person's life when they need to go thru legalism in order to understand grace. Well it is certainly true that I went thru that. But now I consider the foray into legalism as an aberration that kept me away from grace. But I certainly appreciate grace more that I know what the LAW was all abt.

2003-11-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

The Fig Tree & A Vine is a place to come and read about the blessings God offers us if we pursue Him