Examples and Warnings

05/31/201605/31/2016Leave a comment

“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire.” ~Hebrews 12:28-29 (NKJV)

Every so often I have it brought to my mind those times when I grew up in South Philly and went to church. I was raised within the Roman Catholic Church and saw some stuff that I now can call the apostasy of people. It set me up for a decision that I’ll make by the age of 16 and have a deep impact on my life until the age of 40 when Jesus Christ will say “Enough is enough…come to Me you are heavy laden”. I can’t put it all down as waste because there was a lesson to be learned from it, “It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.” (Psalm 118:8) Had I known this sooner…ah who I am kidding? There is no woulda, shoulda, coulda excuse to give. Anyway…

During a recent sit down with friend and Pastor, John Mol, I heard something that gave me that “AH-HA” finger to the air, there it is, moment. Pastor John talked about how God has given us examples and warnings in our churches in the forms of actual people. He told us of few those stories of people in his life who have been examples and warnings to him. And since we have people in the Bible to talk about let’s see a different take on two of them.

Mark 5…After Jesus calms a storm and lands on the shores of Gerasa, He is approached by a man who was tortured by an evil spirit named Legion. This dude ran around a cemetery, charged through the wilderness and did some serious damage to himself. But his encounter with Jesus changed all that. Jesus sends out the thousands of demons within our friend and leaves him a free man. This man is so grateful for what Jesus has done that all he wants to be is with Jesus but he is given a different assignment and was sent off into Decapolis to share what was done for him through Jesus. So…off he went to spread the Good News of Jesus!! People were left amazed!!

John 5…For 38 years a man lived with a disability…he can’t walk too well. It’s a sunny day by the pool of Bethesda and everyone who needs a healing touch is waiting for the bubbles of the pool to start. These waters are said to heal by the magical intercession of a heavenly messenger who stirs the waters. Jesus sees this man from a distance and approaches him. “Are you here in this place hoping to be healed” asks Jesus. Then the disabled man goes about no one is interested in helping him be first to get into pool so he can be healed. Well Jesus took care of that and he was immediately challenged by those wacky Pharisees. But even after he tells them Jesus heals him we don’t see him go anywhere to anyone else to tell them anything. POOF!!! This dude is gone. People were left annoyed.

So what is to be gleaned here? Just like those of us who needed Jesus’ healing touch in our lives we are excited we’re even healed like these two guys but ya gotta notice what they did with what Jesus did for them. One goes out to share his joy with others and one keeps it to himself. One did everything he could for Jesus and one did nothing. One walks into a city and one just walk away. One is set as an example and one is set as a warning.

This is still happening in our churches today. We have folks that are so overjoyed by what Jesus has done for them they can’t singing His praises and we have those that barely lift a whisper to be heard. What I hope I am conveying to you today is that if Jesus has touched you deeply He needs to be shared by you deeply. If all you have in your heart is “Jesus saved me” and not “Jesus saved me and He can save you too” then you’ve missed the boat. Make this day the day you go out among the people and share what was done for you by the healing touch of Jesus Christ. Amen?

Written by Chris Hughes: Chris, a graduate of The Colony of Mercy (11-2003) is married with two adult children and serves on the Deacon Board at Trinity Alliance Church in Cologne NJ

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 149; Proverbs 31

Daily Quote: “We humans “do what we are.” It is a statement that cannot be refuted. In other words, if we let ourselves go, giving up all outward pretensions, and live just from the desires within us, what we really are will come out. Basically, what we are is revealed by what we do, and what we do reveals what we are within.” ~A.W. Tozer

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

3 You will keep him in perfect peace,
Whose mind is stayed on You,
Because he trusts in You.
⁴Trust in the Lord forever,
For in YAH, the Lord, is everlasting strength. ~Isaiah 26:3-4

Never In Vain

05/27/201605/25/2016Leave a comment

Suffering, failure, loneliness, sorrow, discouragement, and death will be part of your journey, but the Kingdom of God will conquer all these horrors. No evil can resist grace forever… If you reject the ragamuffin gospel and turn your back on Christianity, do so because you find the answers of Jesus incredible, blasphemous, or hopelessly hopeful. ~Brennan Manning

Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus along with me. I went up because of a revelation and set before them (though privately before those who seemed influential) the gospel that I proclaim among the Gentiles, in order to make sure I was not running or had not run in vain…. Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me. ~Paul, The Least of The Apostles, in Galatians 2 and Philippians 2

Oh beloved, it is true. Everything we are doing in our service to our King is so backwards to the ways of the world. None of it makes any sense to those who see things only from the perspective of body and mind.

Even those around us who are somewhat (or very) religious, can look at a soldier of the cross, and begin to think that we are taking things just a little too far. Who do we think we are to be going off and actually believing that the Bible is to be taken seriously when it says that G_d wants everything?

Much of what we’ve done, much of what we were, and so many of our relationships seem in vain.

Some of us were so broken. And many of you brothers who are reading this were probably some of them. We were hopeless. Anything that might be done in our lives was going to be in vain. We were addicts who would rather stick things in our veins than be set free. We were (we thought) doomed. And yes, even we, many of us – have been set so free that we can hardly even believe it.

Many of us are were in family situations that were completely unfixable. Humpty-dumpty, and his shattered shell, looked like he was in much better shape than our relationships. And still, into this situation G_d did pour so much Love and grace that we have been restored.

Often, we are in jobs that we know have potential to feed us, but where we don’t feel we can make any difference in people’s lives. Sometimes we wonder how we are ever going to get out of the dead-end that we are in. And even here, G_d uses us in ways that we might not even expect. A co-worker finds Jesus. A boss is moved by the integrity of our work.

There are many other instances and examples here, I am sure you can name more areas where things seem hopeless and vain, and G_d shows up and shows off…. But this week, I was even more impressed at His ability to do things exceedingly, abundantly, beyond all we hope or imagine.

This fool of a writer is also an international educator. I teach Bible, Worldviews, Apologetics, and Honors Philosophy at a school in Northern China. That I even get the privilege of teaching subjects like this in a controlled country is a amazing! But has been even more amazing, is my lack of faith in my calling.

Christian Education seems so slow. It has little flash-bang. No altar calls. Not emotional pleas for kids to come to Christ. And yet, this week, I have been listening to some 12th grade seniors who grew up in Asia, in non-believing and Buddhist and Confucian homes declaring that they have embraced Christ and gave powerful arguments as to why this was true. I had honestly wondered if we were making a difference in so many of these kids lives. Were we just burning up a lot of Kingdom resources giving simply a quality education to kids?

Wow, was I wrong.

Can we see it? The beauty of this slow approach to presenting the Gospel is that many of the students have not made emotional decisions. They have, rather, decided with their heads and their hearts – based on the information they are

getting in their Biology, Bible, Science, Philosophy, PE, and Math classes. They are seeing that G_d is in all of the knowledge they are getting – and this makes all the difference.

So, are you feeling like the place where G_d has you is useless? Don’t. He has never done anything vain in your life till now. And nothing He is having you do is going to be in vain. Trust Him. Let Him pour you out as HE sees fit. We will see the fruit. Just give it time.

Tonight is your night beloved. Time to believe you are valuable in His Kingdom. No matter what you are doing for Him.

Written by Makala Doulos: Makala is a child of G_d, a husband to his wife, a father to his children, and a teacher to his students. But mostly, he is a prisoner set free by Jesus. Love has invaded his life, crushed it, and made it new. Now, G_d’s Love is what constrains him to live in full surrender to the freedom The Father and Son and Holy Spirit have bought for us all. Grace and Peace to you all.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 145; Proverbs 27

Daily Quote: “My spirit turns to Thee and clings, All else forsaking, unto Thee; Forgetting all created things, Remembering only “God in me.” O living Stream; O gracious rain, None wait for Thee, and wait in vain.” ~Gerhard Tersteegen

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

²⁵I have been young, and now am old,
yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken
or his children begging for bread. ~Psalm 37:25

No Perishable Items Allowed

05/26/201605/25/2016Leave a comment

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal.” ~Matthew 6:19

I spend most of my life fixing things that break of building things with the intention of making it last. I remember once someone was spending too much time on a project and when I asked what was taking so long their response was “This thing is gonna last forever” in which I reminded them “It’s all gonna burn one day”.

I wonder if there’s a sign at the door on the “Pearly Gates” that says “No perishable items allowed?”

When I think about the idea of a place where nothing will be worn out or rotting and there is no need for preservation or maintenance I have a hard time wrapping my head around that. On the other hand I also struggle with people who treat material possessions as if it will last forever and neglect the opportunity to invest in the eternal.

I have to categorize things as to what’s really important, material things are only for a short time but the human soul is eternal. How many times have I found myself with the wrong motive and having my priorities out of order? When for the sake of a perishable item I neglect to minister to someone and invest in the eternal.

When I look at the life of Jesus, who by the way was a carpenter like me, I never read about a single thing He made or fixed. Instead, He always references to the things eternal. We know why He came, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” Jesus makes this statement to the jews in John 7:38 “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” To this the crowds were divided. I think the same is true today, the dividing line shows the strength of our faith and what we really believe.

Knowing we have life everlasting in the Kingdom of God should give us strength for today. The conversation that Jesus had with the woman at the well is a good picture of eternity, “Jesus answered and said to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water” John 4:10.

If I can make the distinction between just plain old water and Living water, my life will be much more fruitful for eternal purposes then just temporal.

This isn’t to say that we should neglect our earthly responsibilities but to put things in perspective and not to miss a chance to invest in the eternal.

I pray that today you would be able to see what’s really important and prioritize your life to make the most for the things that will last forever. If nothing you’re working for today will be in heaven then hold on to them loosely but hold on tightly to the things that matter.

Written by Rob Russomano: Rob is married to Terri, he is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and a full time staff member. He is also available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 144; Proverbs 26

Daily Quote: “God loves you just the way you are, but He refuses to leave you that way. He wants you to be just like Jesus.” –Max Lucado

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

²⁵I have been young, and now am old,
yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken
or his children begging for bread. ~Psalm 37:25

Pioneering Dilemmas

05/25/201605/24/2016Leave a comment

“Don’t be intimidated in any way by your enemies. This will be a sign to them that they are going to be destroyed, but that you are going to be saved, even by God Himself. For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for Him.” ~Philippians 1:28-29 (NLT)

The last time I was with you I was all keyed up on a new phrase I learned—“Gospel Pioneer”. Gotta tell ya, I think it’s a really cool title to have because it says that you are for The Gospel and you’re willing to do some suffering for it…right? Because in the life of any good pioneer comes dilemmas. I mean our Bibles are printed in black and white until we get to Jesus and those red letters. When I see those red letters coming up in the four Gospels (a splash can be found in Acts and Revelation) I see the confrontation of a dilemma or two…or three…or four…just depends on what chapter of the Gospel you read. Even though dilemmas can suck the joy right outta us, if they are handled like Jesus much can be gleaned for the side of truth. This was something the Apostle Paul understood as well.

Now for any of you that are scratching your head wondering what dilemmas are they are like being stuck between a rock and a hard place. So what’s the prescription for you when you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place? (If any of you say “More Cowbell” we need to talk) Well I guess we start at this verse since this was Paul’s own personal dilemma…“For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.” (Phil 1:21) As in all dilemmas there are benefits and liabilities so we’ll look at this from Chuck Swindoll’s perspective

We have option 1: To Depart. “dying is even better” I could go into how Swindoll talked about the freedom from chains, imprisonments and stoning Paul would be free from as one of the benefits but we can see what he would experience being in God’s hands in Psalm 16:11: “You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of Your presence and the pleasures of living with You forever.” The liability in this was this infant church would lose its pioneer and we’re not too sure who would have remained to champion it for the future. Let’s not forget those Romans guards either…the word of God had begun to pierce the hearts of these men.

Now we have option 2: To Remain. “living means living for Christ” By sticking around Paul could keep his writing ministry going. After all we do get alot of Christ-like application from his writings in the New Testament. Paul could also help nurture that infant church so that as they grew they would gain the security and hope for its future. But the liability was to stay chained to those Roman guards possibly not being released from his imprisonment. However, in both cases Paul’s joy was Jesus Christ and the sufferings that came with Him. “But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ.” (Phil 3:7) Mighty fine attitude to have for those of us that have experienced imprisonment of one kind or another huh?

So how are we to respond when we find ourselves between that rock and hard place dilemma? Do we really ask for more cowbell or do we put on a set of Biblical bifocals so we can properly see what’s in front of us affecting our today and what the ripple effect will be when it effects our tomorrow? Well since I already wear these fancy transition style bifocals that get dark in the sunlight I’d say my prescription is clear. Go back to those red letters, see how Jesus handled things (I believe He covered a lot of life’s dilemmas) and reconsider just how important it is for me to have Christ in my life.

Paul assured the Philippians there was no reason to be shy or hesitant when dilemmas occurred. They weren’t alone, Christ was for them. The victory was theirs, Christ won it for them. They were not alarmed by their opponents, Christ has them on the right path…it’s cool. Maintain hope and be encouraged, and know that you’re not alone in the battle to ensure that Gospel pioneering goes forward. AND GUESS WHAT? All four of these viewpoints for them are for you too. All you gotta do is allow it to work its way into your walk and when others see the joy of suffering for Jesus on your face they’re gonna know you’re different. Amen?

Written by Chris Hughes: Chris, a graduate of The Colony of Mercy (11-2003) is married with two adult children and serves on the Deacon Board at Trinity Alliance Church in Cologne NJ

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 143; Proverbs 25

Daily Quote: “The presence of opposition, Paul assures them (The Philippians), shows that they are on the right path in their active gospel witness. It is a token of salvation to them, as it is a token of perdition for the opponents: “they will lose and …you will win” God is the author of the Gospel: those who defend it may therefore expect deliverance and victory from Him as surely as those who resist it may expect to incur His judgement.” ~F.F. Bruce

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

²⁵I have been young, and now am old,
yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken
or his children begging for bread. ~Psalm 37:25

Living Water

05/24/201605/23/2016Leave a comment

Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”(John 7:38)

In the midst of reading all the plethora of books, views, and perceptions, it’s really good to go back to the Words of Jesus. In addition, Jesus keeps His doctrine simple and clear to his listeners. In that, he shares great truths here using an example of creation to magnify His Glory.

Water is essential for the survival of all Creation. Water fills 90% of the earth and our human bodies are made up of 70% water. It evens is turn into power like the Hoover Dam. What a precious resource, or should I say necessity. The living water is refreshing, it’s alive, it’s living.

David prayed, “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water” (Ps 63:1).

The sons of Korah sang, “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?” (Ps 42:1-2).

When a person chooses to believe, he becomes the temple of the Holy Spirit. That person has the ability to communion with Christ and allows Him in the center of his life. In Christ, Christ in you, and to be ruled by him. It fills the center of his being, from within him, his mind and heart is an out pour life. Out of this person comes a stream of living water. Life-changing obedience, life-changing testimony. Water; a great example of life. There is in him a power, by faith, which flows restoration and refreshment.

Written by Juan Mendez: Juan is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and full time staff member at America’s Keswick.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 142; Proverbs 24

Daily Quote: “Only God can turn a mess into a message. A test into a testimony. A trial into a triumph. A victim into a victory.”

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

²⁵I have been young, and now am old,
yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken
or his children begging for bread. ~Psalm 37:25

Crazy Old Fool

05/20/201605/17/2016Leave a comment

The Father says today go out in your day and overwhelm the enemy with your joy. My kingdom is righteousness, peace and joy. Your peace and your joy will cause the enemy to be bread for you. I will take that which the enemy has sowed in your life and grind it to powder and make him drink the dregs of his own assault against you. This is what your joy does. Your joy deflates every ambition the enemy has against you. Your peace wearies the enemy and causes his hands to hang down and his heart to sink. Your sense of entitlement in My kingdom absolutely terrorizes the enemy. Your joy, your peace and your entitlement keeps him awake at night. Your audacity robs the enemy of his initiative till he simply capitulates and throws in the towel. Go forth today and weary the enemy with your patience and your joy. ~Father’s Heart Ministries.

I tell you this, brothers: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. ~Paul, The Least of The Apostles, in 1 Corinthians 15

Oh beloved, it is true. This fool of a writer is beginning to be an old man. He is 50, a father of 6, grandfather of 1, and a teacher to about 100 students. Normal days are long enough for an international Christian educator, but to add a little spice to the sauce, tomorrow, I am off to Inner Mongolia tomorrow with 40 9th graders from our school. This is the umpteenth trip like this that i have taken throughout the world… Crazy, right?

Crazy to be in the work we do.
Crazy in Love with Jesus.
Crazy to have lived in so many countries.
Crazy to share life with kids.
Crazy to believe that Joy will find a way.
Crazy enough to believe we might just make a difference.
Crazy enough to be looking forward to some Yak candy.

Yes, I am a fool. But there is a deep and magical wisdom in the foolishness of G_d. And He has put me into union with Him. In the natural, everything we do fails. Nothing works. Everything is broken. All we do is fail. The very things we try to put together are often the things that come apart the fastest. It seems, to keep trying to make any positive difference in the world, is just plain stupid.

I have lived in four countries in the past four years. And, I have been in 3 more than that in the past five. I am learning my fourth language (now Mandarin). My work in the past few years has had me personally responsible for well over 600 students in a number of different classes in different schools in different parts of Asia. I have preached the good news of Jesus Christ to students from every continent, and counseled and prayed people through some of the toughest trenches of their lives.

On top of this, though, the shadows of my past are long. And the wounds of my failures have not completely healed in many of the people that i have hurt around the world. Relationships that would normally bring great fulfillment to a family man are often a source of my greatest pain – and a drain to the normal energy one might have. The reality of sin and failure in my life has not just the effect of keeping me humble – it decimates my ego.

Further, G_d chose to give me incredible challenges in my new life. Some of the people closest to me are people who needed to be loved so intensely that it has threatened to utterly use me up. The fear and pain and need in their lives was deep. And so, again, intimate relationships that would have normally brought me strength, were a place where hope and just about everything else were faltering.

Beyond the relational issues, we have faced a number of sicknesses and I have been plagued with a yearlong battle with chronic nerve pain from a repetitive stress injury from riding motorcycles in the worst traffic in the world, in Jakarta. Oh yeah, add in the fact that our finances took a major beating with two international moves in 2015.

Said simply. This old fool is a bit tired and beat up. What keeps guys like us going? Why keep doing this?

The answer is even more foolish to those who in the world. The answer is Joy.

Joy is the real and overflowing emotional and spiritual strength that comes from living in close relationship with G_d. This same Person, Jesus, has already given His Life for me. He has conquered death. And He is very much in charge through the end of this chaotic age. And so now, in dwelling in a personal relationship with Him – I partake in the victory that is already won. Out from me (and can also from you) flows the energy of His Grace in infinite measure.

Can we see it? All the failure. All the pain. All the brokenness. All of it is real. And none of it is the point. No, all of the negative stuff in my life (and yours) is the stuff that gets us to understand and live in the point in time where things can be different. When we learn to live – right now – in intimate communion with Jesus, we begin to live a life that looks so different to the rest of the world that people actually begin to think we are crazy.

But may this old fool, preach for just a moment? Have you any idea what it is like to look into the eyes of a person you have just touched with the gospel and watched Jesus set them free? Have you ever seen the countenance of a student brighten when they finally discover that they have real and abiding Hope in this life – and the next? Have you ever experienced the joy in bringing water and food to those who just might die without it? Have you ever heard the whisper of His answer when you cry out in prayer, “Oh how I Love you child!”?

Tonight is your night beloved, time to live crazy.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 138; Proverbs 20

Daily Quote: “Fire of love, crazy over what You have made. Oh, divine Madman. ~Prayer of Catherine Siena

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

²³The Lord directs the steps of the godly.
He delights in every detail of their lives.
²⁴Though they stumble, they will never fall,
for the Lord holds them by the hand.

~Psalm 37:23-24

Man Your Post

05/19/201605/17/2016Leave a comment

“I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?” ~Nehemiah 6:3b

I love to play volleyball, but it seems there’s always that guy who feels the need to leave his position and save the day by stepping in front of someone who may not be as good. The problem is being out of position leaves an empty spot in which the other team will “hit it where they ain’t”.

I find that when I’m outside of the will of God I’m vulnerable and put myself in harms way. I become a weak link in a chain that allows the enemy a foothold which in turn hurts the body of believers.

If each one of us was to stand in the gap when it comes to being a part of a healthy spiritual relationship with other believers, we become stronger by number then being alone. Nehemiah had begun a great work by bringing together a group of likeminded people to complete a task that depended upon everyone doing his own work.

When tempted by the enemy Nehemiah quickly recognized that they wanted him to leave his post and in doing so abandon his position. Verse 2 of chapter 6 reads “Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, “Come, let us meet together among the villages in the plain of Ono.” But they thought to do me harm”. I think the first sign of danger was they wanted to meet in the villages in the plain of Ono, in which Nehemiah said “OH NO!

Our “post” is not only a physical position but can also be a spiritual position. The Bible says in the letter to the Colossians in chapter 3 “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth”. Our actions will follow our thoughts in accordance to what we desire. One way to “Man your Post” is to be spiritually minded. If my whole world revolves around me and I allow my selfish ambitions to take over, everything gets filtered through my fleshly thoughts and I develop an unquenchable thirst which leads me to the villages in the plains of Ono. But if my thoughts are fixed on the ways of God thru Christ my filter is pure and my spirit is in tune to the Holy Spirit. Romans chapter 12 is another great chapter to get our “marching orders” verse 16 says “Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion”.

So if you’re out of step and you’re not at your post shape up and step up for the ride of a lifetime.

Written by Rob Russomano: Rob is married to Terri, a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and a full time staff member. He is also available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 137; Proverbs 19

Daily Quote:God loves you just the way you are, but He refuses to leave you that way. He wants you to be just like Jesus. ~Max Lucado

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

²³The Lord directs the steps of the godly.
He delights in every detail of their lives.
²⁴Though they stumble, they will never fall,
for the Lord holds them by the hand.

~Psalm 37:23-24

Gospel Pioneer

05/17/201605/16/20161 Comment

“For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.” ~Philippians 1:20-21 (NLT)

So let’s start this off with a question that can have many layers to it…What are the characteristics of a mature witness for Christ? Now I’m sure you have a list of things that you believe makes a mature witness and I just may not give a rebuttal to it just for this simple reason, I may not know it completely myself. My reasoning in this is pretty much based in something that we seem to do and that is we spend time making the list with characteristics that aren’t signs of a mature witness.

Now I realize that being an axe-wielding homicidal maniac may not a good characteristic and it’s something NOT to be BUT it doesn’t deserve to be on the list. As we scroll the list… “Oh here it is, #13. Thou art doth not to be an axe-wielding homicidal maniac if thou art doth to be a mature witness.” It should go without saying and you may be rolling your eyes right now over it but it is something that we do, it’s probably just less severe but you get my gist.

However we bring what not to be into the conversation of what to be all the time. And let’s think this one through, if you were chained to a Roman guard 24-7, like the Apostle Paul was, would you spend that time telling that guard what’s wrong with him “Dudeious Maximumius you’re a poor witness because you’re nothing but an axe-wielding homicidal manic” or would you use that time telling him what he could be if he was resting in Christ Jesus? “Dudeious Maximumius have you ever considered being a Gospel Pioneer?” “Gospel Pioneer you say…hmmm, now there’s a thought.”

The term Gospel Pioneer comes from Gregory Brown’s study on Paul’s Epistle to The Philippians (Philippians: Pursuing Spiritual Maturity). The characteristics of a Gospel pioneer are cool things like being fearless, being courageous, having boldness and can encourage those around him to do likewise. After all we have been called to spread the Gospel to places where it hasn’t been heard and yes that means in our own backyard.

Too often we let circumstances that have no eternal Kingdom value dictate the characteristics we take on as a witness. If we’ve been addicted to one thing or another, it there has been divorce, imprisonment, rejection, financial loss or abuse of some sort, it’s these things that we allow to shape the character of our witness. If we’ve saved and redeemed all we need to do is start our list from that point and choose joy to guide where we glean our traits of character.

Charles Swindoll (in his book “Laugh Again”) makes this really cool statement, “It’s not enough, however, to simply say, “I choose to be joyful.” To choose joy means that we set our minds on the kinds of things specifically listed in Philippians 4:8. “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy–meditate on these things.” Think of the mind as a bank that regularly receives deposits. By depositing the kinds of thoughts mentioned above, we build up and draw on a rich account that will constantly yield a high dividend called joy.”

As I keep digging into the second half of the first chapter of Paul’s Epistle to the Philippians I am hoping to discover that joy Paul found within himself to give such a great report on how his brand of Gospel pioneering allowed him to turn prison chains into a pulpit but until then let’s think upon this; despite the circumstances that surrounded the Apostle Paul (being falsely accused, beaten, wrongfully arrested and imprisoned) he chose to continuing moving forward with spreading the Gospel Good News even if his audience was only the Praetorian Guard. Could we make such a choice under those kinda circumstances? It’s a stretch I realize but if we take what Christ endured on His way to The Cross as the baseline for Gospel Pioneering there is much we need to check in at the door when we approach the Throne Room. Amen?

Written by Chris Hughes: Chris, a graduate of The Colony of Mercy (11-2003) is married with two adult children and serves on the Deacon Board at Trinity Alliance Church in Cologne NJ

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 135; Proverbs 17

Daily Quote: “Our inner peace will be tossed back and forth according to the whim of events beyond our control. But if we exercise our “right” to choose our attitude—the one basic freedom that can’t be taken away from us—we can choose joy even in the midst of the cruelest circumstances.” ~Charles Swindoll

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

²³The Lord directs the steps of the godly.
He delights in every detail of their lives.
²⁴Though they stumble, they will never fall,
for the Lord holds them by the hand.

~Psalm 37:23-24

Her Life Is Still Touching Others

05/16/201605/15/20161 Comment

Today is a day that I will never forget. It will be forever etched in my mind. And as difficult as it was, I really don’t want to ever forget it.

On May 16, 2008, our precious granddaughter Lindsay Bear Groen slipped into the arms of Jesus at 1:00 PM.

It all started with a well check-up that resulted in the discovery of a leaky heart valve. Open heart surgery followed by a cardiac arrest and a second open heart surgery led to this momentous day.

On May 15th, the doctors decided that on May 16th she would have surgery to get a Berlin heart – a precursor to an heart transplant. These hearts were not FDA approved for kids, but that was the only option for her survival.

There were no statistics to give even a glimmer of hope for survival. Our kids had been valiant and brave through the tedious weeks facing each setback with confidence in God’s care despite the pain and suffering.

The night before led my daughter, Laura, and wife Jan to the same passage of Scripture. John 4 was the account of the man coming to Jesus begging him to come heal his son. Jesus told the man that He had already healed him at 1:00 PM. That was the time for Lindsay’s surgery. Could it be that this was the healing we all longed for?

Fast forward to that morning. Everything was wrong. No hope. Nothing more could be done. Everything was shutting down. For the next several hours, saying goodbyes consisted of our kids bathing their daughter, singing, weeping, praying and worshipping. Gut wrenching. Heart breaking.

Finally a doctor who was witnessing this holy moment realized that Lindsay was gone. No other physician or nurse mention His name during the entire time the kids faced this trial. But Dr. Green lovingly picked up Lindsay and say, “Laura and Jon, Lindsay is home with Jesus! Time of death 1:00 PM.”

Did he say what we thought he said? She’s home with Jesus! And with that, our brave daughter through her tears and ripped out heart faced all of and said, “Mom, God was true to His Word. He healed her at 1:00 PM and gave her a new heart!”

In the midst of intense grief, there was the comfort that only God can give in the mist of the storm.

Eight years later, it still hurts. It hurts just as bad today as it did in 2008. But we rest and trust in the God who knows best.

Eight years later, we still tell the story – her story. Every time that story is told it touches someone heart. It points people to Jesus. It gives a message of hope.

Today we will send up balloons. I don’t know if she’d see them or not. That isn’t the point. The balloons are a reminder of the faithfulness of our God even in the midst of the pain and suffering:

“This I recall to mind, therefore WE have hope. The Lord’s lovingkindnesses never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Thy Faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:21-23

Pop loves you, Lindsay Bear. I hope Jesus gives you a big hug today!!!

Written by Dr. Bill Welte is President/CEO of America’s Keswick: He has been married to his child sweetheart for 40+ years, and has three married kids, one that is engaged, and 10 amazing grand kids. He loves music and is an avid reader.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 134; Proverbs 16

Daily Quote: “In looking back on the way the Lord our God has led, we can sing of the beginning, and we can sing of the middle, and we believe we shall sing of the end. Through it all we have been supplied for the King’s palace in both earthly and spiritual things.” ~Charles Haddon Spurgeon

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

²³The Lord directs the steps of the godly.
He delights in every detail of their lives.
²⁴Though they stumble, they will never fall,
for the Lord holds them by the hand.

~Psalm 37:23-24

In case you missed them:

For The Sake of The Cause

05/11/201605/10/2016Leave a comment

“Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” ~Hebrews 12:2b

I can still remember when I was a young boy and spending most of my time outside playing with my friends in the woods and open fields. I’d come home and the battle would begin to get me into the bath tub. My Mom would demand that I get my filthy behind in that tub right now. In which I would protest with “I don’t feel like it”. After all the kicking and screaming, once I heard the tub filling up it was just a matter of time. Funny thing is, once I got in, with all my toys and the bubbles I didn’t wanna get out, it’s where I belonged.

Sometimes it’s the same with my walk with the Lord, I know what I’m supposed to be doing and where I’m supposed to be but I don’t always “feel like it”. There’s a misconception I hear when it comes to obedience, I hear people say, “if you can’t do it with a cheerful heart, then don’t do it at all”. I disagree, I know God loves a cheerful giver but if I wait until I’m in the mood to serve God I won’t be doing much. If I only go to Church when I “feel like it” my attendance will be way down.

The example Jesus displays according to Hebrews chapter 12 shows Him putting aside His own desires and going to the cross for “The Sake of The Cause”. We see in the garden where Jesus petitions with the Father “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done” (Matt 26:42b). I know we will never have to do anything to save mankind. It’s an attitude of seeing the big picture and being obedient to what you know God desires of us. I believe when we do this, it’s like the bathtub illustration, we will be where we belong and the joy we desire comes with it. I can’t tell you how many times I didn’t feel like fellowshipping, going to church or attending Bible study but once I got there I didn’t wanna leave.

Even when it comes to service for the Lord, I know that people will say partial obedience is disobedience but I disagree. In Matthew 21:28-31 Jesus uses an example of two brothers when asked to work in the field, the first said “I will not” but later did and the second said “I will” but never did. This is an illustration given to the Jews that represents the ones who confessed to follow God but didn’t and those who didn’t follow God but later did.

The point is even if I don’t “feel it” that there’s a bigger and greater cause that we owe a huge debt to and if I sit around and wait until “the Spirit moves me” there’s not a whole lot gonna get done. We are called to respond when the opportunity arises and stop making excuses, believing that the greater cause is worth it. Then I believe the “joyful heart” will follow. As men we need to be challenged, too many times I’ve allowed excuses to hinder my obedience. It’s not that God will love you more if you do it, it’s a matter of being where you belong, “For The Sake of The Cause”.

Written by Rob Russomano: Rob is married to Terri, a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and a full time staff member at America’s Keswick. He is also available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 129; Proverbs 11

Daily Quote: “In today’s economy there is little to hope for the future, however, God is never caught off guard or by surprise. God knows the future.” ~Jack Wellman

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

¹⁷The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears,
And delivers them out of all their troubles.
¹⁸The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart,
And saves such as have a contrite spirit.

¹⁹Many are the afflictions of the righteous,
But the Lord delivers him out of them all.

~Psalm 34:17-19

Freedom Fighters

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Examples and Warnings

Never In Vain

No Perishable Items Allowed

Pioneering Dilemmas

Living Water

Crazy Old Fool

Man Your Post

Gospel Pioneer

Her Life Is Still Touching Others

In case you missed them:

For The Sake of The Cause